The song marked a change in direction for the singer, with more of a dance-oriented style than her earlier work.

It was remixed by Nile Rodgers for the extended 12" release, which also included an instrumental version of the song.

"Dancing in the Dark" received mixed reviews in the press, as did the album, with some commenting on the song's risqué lyrics, which detail a romantic encounter with a stranger.

[2] Although it did make the top 30 in a number of European countries, Wilde considered this her "rock bottom" and was unhappy with the song.

"[4] The song was also recorded in 1983 by Dutch-based singer Tony Sherman (nl) and released as a single.