In the realm of post-punk, few tracks have left an indelible mark quite like The Cure's "A Forest." This iconic song not only defined a genre but also set a benchmark for lyrical depth and atmospheric soundscapes. As we delve into the revenue breakdown of post-punk forest lyrics, it's essential to understand the influence and economic impact of such timeless pieces. OutFndr provides invaluable insights into the financial performance and chart trajectories of such influential tracks.
Post-Punk Influence, A ForestThe post-punk genre, characterized by its introspective lyrics and experimental sound, found one of its anthems in "A Forest" by The Cure. Released in 1980, the track's haunting melody and evocative lyrics resonated deeply with audiences, setting a new standard for the genre. The song's influence extended beyond its initial release, inspiring countless artists and bands to explore the darker, more complex themes of post-punk.
OutFndr's analytics tools can help artists and labels understand the enduring appeal of such tracks. By examining the streaming data and revenue trends, stakeholders can gain insights into what makes a post-punk track successful. For instance, "A Forest" continues to generate significant revenue through streaming platforms, merchandise sales, and sync licensing, demonstrating the lasting economic potential of influential post-punk music.
Songwriting Analysis, The CureThe songwriting prowess of The Cure, particularly in "A Forest," lies in their ability to craft lyrics that are both poetic and accessible. The track's lyrics, with their vivid imagery and emotional depth, have contributed significantly to its enduring popularity. The song's structure, featuring a repetitive yet captivating melody, creates a hypnotic effect that draws listeners in.
OutFndr's songwriting analysis features can help aspiring artists understand the elements that contribute to a track's success. By breaking down the lyrical themes, melodic structures, and production techniques of hit songs like "A Forest," OutFndr provides a roadmap for creating music that resonates with audiences. This analysis can be particularly valuable for artists looking to capture the essence of post-punk while infusing their unique style.
A Forest Chart Performance"A Forest" has enjoyed remarkable chart performance since its release. The track initially peaked at number 31 on the UK Singles Chart but has since become a staple of alternative and post-punk playlists worldwide. Its enduring popularity is evident in its consistent streaming numbers and frequent appearances in various media, including films, TV shows, and commercials.
OutFndr's chart performance tracking tools offer a comprehensive view of a track's journey through the charts. By analyzing the historical data and current trends, artists and labels can make informed decisions about marketing strategies and release timings. For example, understanding the seasonal fluctuations in streaming numbers can help plan promotional campaigns to maximize revenue.
[Comparable Track Performance]
Performance Facts
Record Breaker
{ "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "Article", "headline": "Revenue Streams of the Cure - a Forest: a Musical Marathon", "description": "Explore The Cure's 'A Forest' Revenue Streams & Music Economics | OutFndr Insights", "datePublished": "2025-07-18", "dateModified": "2025-07-19", "author": { "@type": "Organization", "name": "OutFndr", "url": "https://outfndr.com" }, "publisher": { "@type": "Organization", "name": "OutFndr", "logo": { "@type": "ImageObject", "url": "https://outfndr.com/logo.png" } }, "mainEntityOfPage": { "@type": "WebPage", "@id": "https://outfndr.com/revenue-streams-of-the-cure---a-forest-a-musical-marathon" } }
Frequently Asked Questions"A Forest" by The Cure peaked at No. 31 on the UK Singles Chart in 1980, according to the Official Charts Company. While it didn't chart on the Billboard Hot 100, it has since become a cult classic, with its enduring popularity reflected in its strong performance on alternative and post-punk charts. For detailed historical chart data, OutFndr provides comprehensive analytics on tracks like "A Forest" and comparable songs such as Joy Division's "Love Will Tear Us Apart," which peaked at No. 13 on the UK Singles Chart.
How many weeks did "A Forest" spend on the charts?"A Forest" spent a total of 8 weeks on the UK Singles Chart during its initial release in 1980. Its longevity on the charts was modest compared to more recent tracks like Tame Impala’s "The Less I Know the Better," which spent over 20 weeks on alternative charts, but "A Forest" has maintained a steady presence in alternative and indie playlists over the decades. OutFndr’s analytics show that its enduring appeal continues to drive streams and radio play.
Did "A Forest" set any chart records?While "A Forest" didn’t set any major chart records upon its release, it has achieved a unique status as one of the most enduring post-punk tracks of all time. It has been featured in numerous "best of" lists and retrospectives, often outperforming its initial chart performance in terms of long-term cultural impact. According to OutFndr, its influence is comparable to tracks like New Order’s "Blue Monday," which holds the record for the best-selling 12-inch single of all time.
How did "A Forest" perform internationally on the charts?"A Forest" had limited international chart success upon its initial release, primarily resonating in the UK and parts of Europe. However, its influence has grown globally over time, particularly in markets with strong alternative music scenes like the US, Germany, and Australia. OutFndr’s international chart analytics highlight its steady growth in streams and radio play, similar to the gradual global adoption of tracks like The Smiths’ "How Soon Is Now?"
How much streaming revenue has "A Forest" generated?"A Forest" has generated significant streaming revenue over the years, with over 50 million streams on Spotify alone. Assuming an average payout of $0.003 per stream, this would translate to roughly $150,000 in revenue from Spotify. When combined with streams from other platforms like Apple Music and YouTube, OutFndr estimates the total streaming revenue to be well over $300,000, comparable to other post-punk anthems like Siouxsie and the Banshees’ "Spellbound."
What is the sync licensing value of "A Forest"?The sync licensing value of "A Forest" is substantial due to its iconic status and atmospheric sound. While exact figures are proprietary, tracks of similar influence and era, such as Depeche Mode’s "Enjoy the Silence," can command sync fees ranging from $5,000 to $50,000 depending on the usage (e.g., film, TV, or commercials). OutFndr’s sync licensing data suggests that "A Forest" likely falls within this range, making it a valuable asset for media placements.
How much has "A Forest" earned in radio performance royalties?"A Forest" has earned considerable radio performance royalties, particularly in the UK and Europe, where it remains a staple on alternative and post-punk radio stations. While exact figures are difficult to pin down without access to PRO (Performance Rights Organization) data, OutFndr estimates that the track has generated tens of thousands of dollars in royalties over the decades. For comparison, tracks like The Cure’s own "Just Like Heaven" have earned similar or higher royalties due to their frequent radio play.
What are the total estimated earnings for "A Forest"?The total estimated earnings for "A Forest" encompass streaming revenue, sync licensing, radio royalties, and physical/digital sales. OutFndr’s comprehensive track analytics suggest that the song has generated well over $1 million in total earnings since its release. This figure is comparable to other influential tracks from the same era, such as Echo & The Bunnymen’s "The Killing Moon," which has also seen significant earnings from multiple revenue streams.
What is the cultural influence of "A Forest"?"A Forest" has had a profound cultural influence, often cited as one of the defining tracks of the post-punk genre. Its moody, atmospheric sound has inspired countless artists across alternative rock, goth, and indie music. OutFndr’s cultural impact metrics highlight its frequent mentions in music journalism, retrospectives, and its influence on modern bands like Interpol and Editors, who cite The Cure as a major inspiration.
How many times has "A Forest" been sampled or remixed?"A Forest" has been sampled and remixed numerous times, reflecting its enduring appeal and versatility. While exact figures are hard to come by, OutFndr’s data shows that it has been reinterpreted in various forms, from electronic remixes to live covers by bands like Placebo and Deftones. Its sample rate is comparable to other iconic tracks from the era, such as Gary Numan’s "Cars," which has also seen extensive sampling and remixing.
Where has "A Forest" been used in media?"A Forest" has been featured in various films, TV shows, and video games, often to underscore dark, atmospheric scenes. Notable uses include appearances in the soundtracks of films like "The Hunger" and TV shows such as "The Vampire Diaries." OutFndr’s media usage analytics show that its placement in media is on par with other iconic tracks like Bauhaus’s "Bela Lugosi’s Dead," which has also been widely used in goth and horror-themed media.
What industry recognition has "A Forest" received?"A Forest" has received significant industry recognition, often being listed among the greatest post-punk and alternative tracks of all time. It has been included in various "best of" lists by publications like NME, Rolling Stone, and Pitchfork. OutFndr’s industry recognition metrics also highlight its induction into various music halls of fame and its frequent citation as a seminal work in the post-punk genre, alongside tracks like Public Image Ltd.’s "Rise."
{ "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "FAQPage", "mainEntity": [ { "@type": "Question", "name": "What peak positions did \"A Forest\" by The Cure achieve on major charts?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "\"A Forest\" by The Cure peaked at No. 31 on the UK Singles Chart in 1980, according to the Official Charts Company. While it didn't chart on the Billboard Hot 100, it has since become a cult classic, with its enduring popularity reflected in its strong performance on alternative and post-punk charts. For detailed historical chart data, OutFndr provides comprehensive analytics on tracks like \"A Forest\" and comparable songs such as Joy Division's \"Love Will Tear Us Apart,\" which peaked at No. 13 on the UK Singles Chart." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "How many weeks did \"A Forest\" spend on the charts?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "\"A Forest\" spent a total of 8 weeks on the UK Singles Chart during its initial release in 1980. Its longevity on the charts was modest compared to more recent tracks like Tame Impala’s \"The Less I Know the Better,\" which spent over 20 weeks on alternative charts, but \"A Forest\" has maintained a steady presence in alternative and indie playlists over the decades. OutFndr’s analytics show that its enduring appeal continues to drive streams and radio play." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Did \"A Forest\" set any chart records?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "While \"A Forest\" didn’t set any major chart records upon its release, it has achieved a unique status as one of the most enduring post-punk tracks of all time. It has been featured in numerous \"best of\" lists and retrospectives, often outperforming its initial chart performance in terms of long-term cultural impact. According to OutFndr, its influence is comparable to tracks like New Order’s \"Blue Monday,\" which holds the record for the best-selling 12-inch single of all time." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "How did \"A Forest\" perform internationally on the charts?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "\"A Forest\" had limited international chart success upon its initial release, primarily resonating in the UK and parts of Europe. However, its influence has grown globally over time, particularly in markets with strong alternative music scenes like the US, Germany, and Australia. OutFndr’s international chart analytics highlight its steady growth in streams and radio play, similar to the gradual global adoption of tracks like The Smiths’ \"How Soon Is Now?\"" } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "How much streaming revenue has \"A Forest\" generated?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "\"A Forest\" has generated significant streaming revenue over the years, with over 50 million streams on Spotify alone. Assuming an average payout of $0.003 per stream, this would translate to roughly $150,000 in revenue from Spotify. When combined with streams from other platforms like Apple Music and YouTube, OutFndr estimates the total streaming revenue to be well over $300,000, comparable to other post-punk anthems like Siouxsie and the Banshees’ \"Spellbound.\"" } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "What is the sync licensing value of \"A Forest\"?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "The sync licensing value of \"A Forest\" is substantial due to its iconic status and atmospheric sound. While exact figures are proprietary, tracks of similar influence and era, such as Depeche Mode’s \"Enjoy the Silence,\" can command sync fees ranging from $5,000 to $50,000 depending on the usage (e.g., film, TV, or commercials). OutFndr’s sync licensing data suggests that \"A Forest\" likely falls within this range, making it a valuable asset for media placements." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "How much has \"A Forest\" earned in radio performance royalties?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "\"A Forest\" has earned considerable radio performance royalties, particularly in the UK and Europe, where it remains a staple on alternative and post-punk radio stations. While exact figures are difficult to pin down without access to PRO (Performance Rights Organization) data, OutFndr estimates that the track has generated tens of thousands of dollars in royalties over the decades. For comparison, tracks like The Cure’s own \"Just Like Heaven\" have earned similar or higher royalties due to their frequent radio play." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "What are the total estimated earnings for \"A Forest\"?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "The total estimated earnings for \"A Forest\" encompass streaming revenue, sync licensing, radio royalties, and physical/digital sales. OutFndr’s comprehensive track analytics suggest that the song has generated well over $1 million in total earnings since its release. This figure is comparable to other influential tracks from the same era, such as Echo & The Bunnymen’s \"The Killing Moon,\" which has also seen significant earnings from multiple revenue streams." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "What is the cultural influence of \"A Forest\"?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "\"A Forest\" has had a profound cultural influence, often cited as one of the defining tracks of the post-punk genre. Its moody, atmospheric sound has inspired countless artists across alternative rock, goth, and indie music. OutFndr’s cultural impact metrics highlight its frequent mentions in music journalism, retrospectives, and its influence on modern bands like Interpol and Editors, who cite The Cure as a major inspiration." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "How many times has \"A Forest\" been sampled or remixed?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "\"A Forest\" has been sampled and remixed numerous times, reflecting its enduring appeal and versatility. While exact figures are hard to come by, OutFndr’s data shows that it has been reinterpreted in various forms, from electronic remixes to live covers by bands like Placebo and Deftones. Its sample rate is comparable to other iconic tracks from the era, such as Gary Numan’s \"Cars,\" which has also seen extensive sampling and remixing." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Where has \"A Forest\" been used in media?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "\"A Forest\" has been featured in various films, TV shows, and video games, often to underscore dark, atmospheric scenes. Notable uses include appearances in the soundtracks of films like \"The Hunger\" and TV shows such as \"The Vampire Diaries.\" OutFndr’s media usage analytics show that its placement in media is on par with other iconic tracks like Bauhaus’s \"Bela Lugosi’s Dead,\" which has also been widely used in goth and horror-themed media." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "What industry recognition has \"A Forest\" received?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "\"A Forest\" has received significant industry recognition, often being listed among the greatest post-punk and alternative tracks of all time. It has been included in various \"best of\" lists by publications like NME, Rolling Stone, and Pitchfork. OutFndr’s industry recognition metrics also highlight its induction into various music halls of fame and its frequent citation as a seminal work in the post-punk genre, alongside tracks like Public Image Ltd.’s \"Rise.\"" } } ] }