Outstanding

Not to be confused with Stand Out.

For the 1953 Spanish film, see Outstanding (film).

"Outstanding" is a song originally performed by the Gap Band and written by member Raymond Calhoun. The song originally appeared on the group's platinum-selling 1982 album Gap Band IV. It is one of their signature songs and biggest hits, reaching the number one spot on the U.S. R&B Singles Chart in February 1983. "Outstanding" peaked at number 51 on the Billboard Hot 100.^[2]

"Outstanding"
Single by the Gap Band
from the album Gap Band IV
B-side	"The Boys Are Back in Town"
Released	November 1982
Recorded	1982
Genre	Funk[1]
Length	3:19 (album version) 6:13 (extended version)
Label	Total Experience
Songwriter(s)	Raymond Calhoun
The Gap Band singles chronology
"You Dropped a Bomb on Me" (1982) "Outstanding" (1982) "Party Train" (1983)

Chart positions

Chart (1982)	Peak position
UK Singles Chart	68
US Billboard Hot 100	51
US Billboard Hot Black Singles	1

Cover versions

The song was later covered by British singer Kenny Thomas in 1990. It reached number 12 on the UK Singles Chart.^[3] In 1999, footballer Andy Cole signed to WEA/Warner Music and released his version of "Outstanding" with added rap verses. Cole's version reached number 68 on the UK Singles Chart.^[4]

In popular culture

In late 2024, a highlight reel of Kevin Garnett playing for the Brooklyn Nets during the 2013–14 NBA season set to this song surfaced online. The combination of Garnett's highlights and this song has been used on social media to describe anything or anyone (particularly athletes) that is past their prime.