It was released on 18 September 1989 and reached number six on the UK Singles Chart.

In Ireland, "Sweet Surrender" peaked at number one, becoming the group's second of three number-one singles there.

In Australia, "Sweet Surrender" reached number seven on the ARIA Singles Chart in May 1990 and was certified gold.

Marti Pellow recorded his own version of the song for inclusion on his 2002 album Marti Pellow Sings the Hits of Wet Wet Wet & Smile.

[citation needed] The music video features the band performing in a dark blue background with a smiling Marti Pellow singing the song and various women dressed in red Arabian clothing swimming in midair.