Belle Epoque - Black Is Black

Year Released: 1977
Genre: Disco / Funk / Pop

Description:

“Black Is Black” by Belle Epoque is a disco reinterpretation of the 1966 hit by the Spanish group Los Bravos, released in 1977 on the Carrere label (and licensed to Big Tree, EMI, and other imprints across Europe and North America). Issued as a 7″ single, the track became Belle Epoque’s breakthrough release, reaching international charts and defining their glamorous Euro-disco sound.

Fronted by French-Italian singer Evelyne Lenton, Belle Epoque transformed the rock-oriented original into a sleek, dancefloor anthem. The single features driving four-on-the-floor drums, pulsing bass grooves, rhythmic wah-guitar, and lush string and horn arrangements — all anchored by Lenton’s sultry, commanding vocals. The arrangement reflects the late-1970s disco aesthetic: precise, layered production built for both radio play and club rotation.

The 7″ typically includes the main version of “Black Is Black” on the A-side and a complementary disco instrumental or alternate mix on the B-side, depending on the regional pressing.

Musically, the song epitomizes the glittering crossover of European disco and American funk influences, pairing a classic pop melody with contemporary dance production. It became a major club hit and remains Belle Epoque’s signature track, later appearing on numerous disco compilations and earning status as one of the defining European disco singles of the late 1970s.