"Smalltown Boy" brought one hit wonder status to the British synthpop group Bronski Beat. It was released in June of 1984. It would also appear on the band's debut album The Age of Consent, released in December 1984. The song is a popular gay anthem and was a huge commercial success, reaching number 3 in the band's native UK. As well, it was a number one hit in the Netherlands and Italy, and hit the top 10 in Australia, Canada, France, and Switzerland. The track reached number 48 in the U.S. pop chart and was a #1 U.S dance hit.