The Final Countdown was released in 1986 as the title track of Europe's third album, written by lead singer Joey Tempest. Its keyboard riff, originally composed years earlier, became one of the most recognised intros in rock and topped charts in more than twenty five countries. Over the following decades it moved beyond radio into sports arenas, television and film, where it is routinely played before decisive plays and introductions. Online, the chorus alone is clipped for walk up edits, entrances and mock dramatic reveals.