Meaning: The quote you provided is from Chris Lowe, one half of the iconic British pop duo Pet Shop Boys, reflecting on the release of their debut single "West End Girls." The song was originally released on import and gained popularity in the club scene before becoming a worldwide hit. Lowe's recollection of being a student at Liverpool University and feeling embarrassed when the song played in a club offers a glimpse into the early days of the band's success and the impact of their music on the nightlife and cultural scene of the time.

In the quote, Lowe's reference to "West End Girls" coming out on import highlights the song's initial release as an import single before it was officially launched in the UK. Import releases, especially in the 1980s, were a way for music enthusiasts and DJs to access new and often underground music from around the world before it was widely available. This method of distribution often created a sense of exclusivity and anticipation around certain tracks, building a dedicated fan base before the official release.

Lowe's mention of being a student at Liverpool University when the song was gaining popularity provides insight into the personal experience of witnessing the early reception of the band's music. The university environment, known for its diverse and vibrant cultural scene, likely exposed Lowe to a wide range of musical influences and allowed him to observe firsthand the impact of "West End Girls" on the local club and nightlife scene.

The feeling of embarrassment that Lowe describes when the song played in a club reflects the complex emotions that artists may experience when their work is unexpectedly thrust into the spotlight. As a musician, seeing the audience's reaction to a song can be both thrilling and anxiety-inducing, especially when the success of the song is still uncertain. In this case, "West End Girls" went on to become a massive hit, but at the time of the quote, Lowe's feelings of embarrassment may have stemmed from the vulnerability of sharing his creative work with a live audience for the first time.

"West End Girls" is a synth-pop classic that transcended its initial club success to become a defining song of the 1980s and a signature track for the Pet Shop Boys. Its distinctive blend of electronic beats, catchy melodies, and socially observant lyrics captured the spirit of the era and resonated with audiences around the world. The song's exploration of class and culture in London, combined with its infectious hooks, made it an anthem for a generation and solidified the Pet Shop Boys' status as influential pop innovators.

In conclusion, Chris Lowe's recollection of the early days of "West End Girls" provides a fascinating glimpse into the song's journey from import release to club sensation and eventual global hit. His reflections on being a student at Liverpool University and experiencing the song's impact firsthand offer a personal perspective on the band's rise to fame and the emotional complexity of sharing creative work with the world. "West End Girls" remains a timeless classic that continues to resonate with music lovers and serves as a testament to the enduring influence of the Pet Shop Boys.