: Won Best British Single at the 1988 Brit Awards. The "Rickrolling" Phenomenon

: Before his breakthrough, Astley worked as a "tape op" and assistant at SAW's PWL Studios, famously making tea for other stars to help him overcome his shyness.

: It spent five weeks at the top of the UK charts and was the best-selling single of 1987 .

: It reached number one in 25 countries , including the UK and the US.

: It topped the Billboard Hot 100 for two weeks in March 1988.

: A blend of dance-pop and blue-eyed soul, its syncopated bassline was heavily influenced by Colonel Abrams' 1985 hit "Trapped". 1980s Global Success Upon release, the song became an immediate sensation:

: The title was inspired by Pete Waterman overhearing Astley promise his girlfriend he would "never give her up" after a long phone call.

"Never Gonna Give You Up" is the 1987 debut single by British singer . Originally a global chart-topper, it attained legendary status decades later as the foundation of the " Rickrolling " internet meme. Production and Initial Release