Featuring a repetitive hook and a synth-drone throughout, "Shout" is regarded as one of the most recognizable songs from the mid-eighties, with Chris True of AllMusic viewing it as Tears for Fears' defining moment.

In 2010, it was used as the basis for the UK chart-topping song "Shout" (performed by an ensemble featuring Dizzee Rascal and James Corden), an unofficial anthem of the England football team in the 2010 FIFA World Cup.

[7] It begins with a percussive loop from an emulator drum machine before leading into the song's chorus, which follows a I–♭VI–IV–I chord progression.

It features footage of Roland Orzabal and Curt Smith at Durdle Door in Dorset on the south coast of England, as well as in a studio with the full band, including Ian Stanley and Manny Elias, performing the song amidst a crowd of family and friends.

The big chair in her therapist's office is the place Sybil feels safest to recount the horrors of her childhood.Cash Box said that it has "an anthemic chorus and a booming production sound".

[13] John Leland at Spin called it, " the simple, mindless pop song Depeche Mode has been trying to write for years.

Other than that, its got a singsong melody that numbs all critical faculties, portentious lyrics that signify nothing, and a happy lack of synth doodles or Bowie-isms.

"[14] Smash Hits reviewer Lesley White described it as "Effective and powerful pop with an insidious chorus you'll find yourself singing at the most inoppurtune moments.

The new version, performed by Shout for England featuring Dizzee Rascal and James Corden, utilises elements from the Tears for Fears song amid new verses written specifically for the 2010 World Cup.