Nik Kershaw - The Riddle (MCA)

'The Riddle' in question concerns an old man of Arran going round and round a hole in the ground. Not the most stimulating of exercises but it seems to mean a great deal to mystic Nik. When Sting comes out with this metaphysical hogwash, so sweet are his songs that he gets away with it. Nik Kershaw probably couldn't get away with pinching a pack of liquorice from Woolies. The only riddle is why folk keep buying the boy's records. (Paul Simper, No 1, November 17, 1984)

Somewhere in its dim and distant lineage, this song is related to "Mull Of Kintyre". With its Celtic folksy tune, pushed along by military drums and penny whistles, and references to 'wise men', I suspect it's the first genuine Christmas Single of the season - albeit a little early - and the song most likely to be whistled by your milkmen in the winter months ahead. (Neil Tennant, Smash Hits, November 8, 1984)

Nik Kershaw - Wide Boy (MCA)

Perhaps "Wide Boy" is the result of Nik Kershaw realising how absurd it is that a year or so ago no one would even cash his cheques and now there are thousands who'd die for him. So being a responsible sort he takes to task those stars whose heads are turned by fame. "He's no big deal, he's just a wide boy," croons the Ipswich idol backed by the usual sugary melodic pop. I find "Wide Boy" quite forgettable, but I'm glad to see Mr Kershaw has got his feet firmly on the ground. (Adrian Tierney-Jones, No 1, March 9, 1985)

Very enjoyable. The lyrics tell a story about Nik Kershaw himself, I think. What he's trying to say is that his critics think he's stupid but, because he's got so much success, it doesn't bother him. One of those records that you may well find yourself humming at the bus stop. Nice one, Nik. Single of the fortnight. (Marshall O'Leary, Smash Hits, March 14, 1985)

Nik Kershaw - I Won't Let The Sun Go Down On Me (MCA)

Nik Kershaw has written some good songs and this is one of the better. He's had a lot flak but I guess that's what happens when you pick up awards for us. A huge hit especially with the fold-out, hunk of the month colour poster. I wish he wouldn't try so hard to shrug off his young image. He should be grateful for it. (John Taylor [Duran Duran], Smash Hits, June 21, 1984)

New name has couple of hits, re-releases oldie that didn't quite make it first time around but is sure to score on this go. Meanwhile he has to contend with trauma of wanting to be serious artist, sensitive musician, etc, but keeps getting screamed at by weenies, teddy bears chucked on stage and so on. Which reminds me - whatever happened to Tears For Fears?  (Sunie, No 1, June 9, 1984)

Nik Kershaw - Human Racing (MCA)

You shouldn't be embarrassed by your fans - ever. Surely it's better to be David Cassidy than Billy Joel. This is pure cocktail party music, uncannily like Mr Joel (who, it must be said, wrote "Say Goodbye To Hollywood", which I love). Still I suppose it is a good career move. (Bobby Bluebell, Smash Hits, August 30, 1984)

This is really bizarre. I understand that Kershaw is inordinately popular these days in spite of the dull, workmanlike nature of his 'art'. I understand that this is the title track from his LP. I understand that it was obviously time for a ballad after his three boppety-bop hits, to show that he's a mature, sensitive guy and not just a scream object.
What I don't understand is why the heck he sings the whole number in a fake Stevie Wonder voice! Excellent impersonation though - [Mike] Yarwood look out. This boy is a real all-rounder. (Sunie, No 1, September 1, 1984)