Alex Clare, Too Close | 1 Hit WONDERful

In the 45^th edition of 1 Hit WONDERful (2025), we highlight “Too Close” performed by English singer-songwriter Alex Clare. 

It only takes ONE hit to solidify a musical legacy 💯! On 1 Hit WONDERful, we highlight songs that were the SOLE hit by a given musician.  It is possible that the artists appearing on this list earned a minor hit or two, BUT for the most part, that ONE hit earned them recognition. So, in the 45^th edition of 1 Hit WONDERful (2025), we dive into “Too Close”, the one-hit wonder by Alex Clare.

Alex Clare (b. 1985) asserts at the end of the first verse of “Too Close”. “Too Close” is the fourth track from the English singer-songwriter’s 2011 album, The Lateness Of The Hour. Notably, it marks Clare’s sole hit in the United States. The gem, which runs north of four minutes in duration, peaked at number seven on the Billboard Hot 100.  It was certified double platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America. Clare and Jim Duguid penned “Too Close” while Ariel Rechtshaid, Diplo, and Switch produced it.

 

“Which way is right?

Which way is wrong?

How do I say that I need to move on?

You know we’re heading separate ways.”

“Too Close” is set in a minor key, which establishes a darker, more foreboding sound. An enigmatic, moody-sounding intro sets the tone. The music accompaniment is picturesque, characterized by keys, guitar, and robust, percussive, rhythmic drum programming.  With the backdrop serving up a surefire vibe, Alex Clare keeps the same energy. He sings the tuneful melodies beautifully with incredible expression and nuance.  He possesses a big voice and wows with his rich, stunning tone. Matters of the heart fuel the fire, without question. “I’ve nothing to give, I must live without you,” Clare sings in the second verse, and adds, “You know we’re heading separate ways.” Oh, snap! The section to beat should come as no surprise: the chorus.  Simply put, it’s epic!

“And it feels like I am just too close to love you

There’s nothing I can really say

I can’t lie no more

I can’t hide no more

Got to be true to myself

And it feels like I am just too close to love you

So, I’ll be on my way.”

In the otherworldly chorus, dubstep, big in the early 2010s (and has since significantly faded), hits hard, packing a mean punch. In the homestretch of “Too Close,” the synths get edgier, harder, and noisier. The intensity is legit.  Sure, “Too Close” may have been Clare’s sole hit stateside, but it’s a fun and memorable electronic-fueled alternative cut.  Alex put his entire foot into this one!

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Alex Clare » The Lateness Of The Hour » Universal Island » 2011

Alex Clare, Too Close: 1 Hit WONDERful No. 45 (2025) [📷: Brent Faulkner / The Musical Hype; Universal Island; Antoni Shkraba, KoolShooters, Pavel Danilyuk, Photo By: Kaboompics.com, RDNE Stock project from Pexels; AcatXIo, OpenClipart-Vectors from Pixabay]

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