The track reached number 9 in the UK Singles Chart, number 49 in the American dance chart and number 87 on the Billboard Hot 100.
Some of the sounds on "Master and Servant", such as the whip effect, are based on Daniel Miller standing in the studio hissing and spitting. According to the band, they tried to sample a real whip but "it was hopeless".
The CD single was released in 1991 as part of the singles box set compilations.
Germany (Official German Charts) peak position 2, 1984.
Ireland (IRMA) peak position 6, 1984.