It was written by keyboardist Rod Temperton and was included on Heatwave's debut album, Too Hot to Handle.

Harpist Carla Skanger (a pseudonym of Sheila Bromberg of the London Symphony Orchestra) played harp and American actor and singer Clarke Peters performed backing vocals on the recording.

The single was certified platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA).

"Boogie Nights" has been covered many times by artists such as KC and the Sunshine Band, Will to Power, 911 and The Weather Girls.

In 1992, British singer Sonia recorded her take on the song, produced by Mark Taylor and Tracy Ackerman for her third studio album, Better the Devil You Know, in 1993.