Digital Spy stated the song was a "grower, sneaking up on you after about seven listens and battering you into submission with its hearty chorus and angelic harmonies".

[3][4] The BBC also made reference to previous releases they felt were stronger, noting the chorus failed to deliver.

[5] Birmingham Live gave the song a positive review, regarding it an album standout, and noting similarities in the structure and style to Coldplay.

[6] The Sunday Mercury said: "Hit single Greatest Day is as pop-perfect now as Patience was back in 2006.

"[7] The video for "Greatest Day" was filmed on location on top of the 28-story California Bank & Trust building at 550 South Hope Street in Downtown Los Angeles.

[8] It was directed by Meiert Avis, who previously shot videos for U2, Damien Rice, Bruce Springsteen and Bob Dylan.

The band shot the video while visiting producer John Shanks in the city who was mixing the album.

[33][34] In March 2014, a re-recorded version of the song—featuring vocals from Barlow and other pop singers such as Eliza Doolittle, Katy B and Spice Girls members Melanie C and Emma Bunton, and former footballers such as Gary Lineker and Michael Owen – was announced as the official song for the England football team at the 2014 World Cup in Brazil.