Yeah, I've got something to tell you. But there's a lot to get to before that.
This week, back to the end of August 1982. But before we journey there, let's dial it back to August 28, 1971.
The Bee Gees were at #1 with "How Can You Mend a Broken Heart." The Top Ten also included "Signs," "Mercy Mercy Me (The Ecology)," "Mr. Big Stuff," and "Go Away Little Girl."...First new one we encounter is the second and biggest hit by Delaney and Bonnie and Friends, the jangly "Never Ending Song of Love," found this week at 24...Freda Payne had her last pop hit with this week's #28, the soulful plea for the end of the Vietnam war "Bring the Boys Home."...At #34 we find B.J. Thomas trying his hand at gospel on "Mighty Clouds of Joy." And he actually does pretty well with it. One of his better efforts...At 37 and 38 we find two R&B covers of then-recent pop hits. First, the Isley Brothers sublty-but-effectively funk up Steven Stills' "Love the One You're With." Then the formidable team of Roberta Flack and Donny Hathaway provide a more impassioned take on Carole King's "You've Got a Friend" than James Taylor did. But his laid-back version was a #1, so...And Barbra Streisand is at #40 with her version of another Carole King composition, the future Gilmore Girls theme "Where You Lead."...But this week, my spotlight falls on...
29 - "Rings," Cymarron
This nondescript soft-rock group had their only hit with this countryish bit of romantic fluff in which the title refers to telephones, doorbells, wedding bands, and wedding bells. They namedrop James Taylor and two presumably unknown dudes named "Tony and Mario." Never heard it before, glad I did now, don't need to hear it again. And two of the three members went on to form a moderately successful new-country band in the early 90s. That sounds about right.
And now to '82. Here we go with 40-11, new ones in bold.
40 - "Love or Let Me be Lonely," Paul Davis
39 - "Never Been in Love," Randy Meisner
38 - "Let Me Go," Ray Parker Jr.
37 - "Do You Wanna Touch Me (Oh Yeah)," Joan Jett and the Blackhearts
36 - "Someday, Someway," Marshall Crenshaw
35 - "What's Forever For," Michael Murphey
34 - "Hold On," Santana
33 - "I Keep Forgettin'," Michael McDonald
32 - "Don't You Want Me," The Human League
31 - "Tainted Love," Soft Cell
30 - "Let Me Tickle Your Fancy," Jermaine Jackson
29 - "Somebody's Baby," Jackson Browne
28 - "Hot in the City," Billy Idol
27 - "Let it Whip," The Dazz Band
26 - "Blue Eyes," Elton John
25 - "Kids in America," Kim Wilde
24 - "Only Time Will Tell," Asia
23 - "You Can Do Magic," America
22 - "And I'm Telling You I'm Not Going," Jennifer Holliday
21 - "Out of Work," Gary U.S. Bonds
20 - "Rosanna," Toto
19 - "Only the Lonely," The Motels
18 - "Who Can it Be Now," Men at Work
17 - "Think I'm in Love," Eddie Money
16 - "American Music," The Pointer Sisters
15 - "Eye in the Sky," The Alan Parsons Project
14 - "Jack and Diane," John Cougar
13 - "Love Will Turn You Around," Kenny Rogers
12 - "Love is in Control (Finger on the Trigger)," Donna Summer
11 - "You Should Hear How She Talks About You," Melissa Manchester
We begin our look at the thirteen newbies in this bunch with the easy-listening stuff. MOR playlist-filler Paul Davis had his last pop hit with this cover of a 1970 hit by The Friends of Distinction. The original's okay, the cover is inessential. Ex-Eagle Randy Meisner had his last Top 40 with this okay soft-rocker about a romance that feels like the first time. Serviceable, but nothing that sticks in the memory. The Pointer Sisters are here with this gentle midtempo ode to songs created in the U.S. of A., which are perfect for both "moving to the stereo" and "driving with the radio." Boring, and beneath them. And Kenny Rogers shows up this week with the theme song to his one attempt at becoming a film star, the stock-car-driver-takes-on-a-group-of-plucky-orphans-as-his-pit-crew comedy Six Pack. As I've said here before, I went to see the movie when it came out, and I don't remember it being very good. But the song is a breezy little tune about the unexpected surprises that make life interesting and good. One of his more enjoyable hits.
Good chunk of R&B in this section. Ray Parker Jr. is here with this ballad about wanting a commitment from an indecisive woman. It wouldn't stand out except for the line "I know when a woman gets in her twenties, she starts to feel like she's running out of time." Ah, the good old days when a lady who wasn't married by 25 was considered an old maid who was doomed to life as a dowdy librarian like Donna Reed in the alternate reality in It's a Wonderful Life. For that line alone, Ray gets this week's Uneasy Rider. Jermaine Jackson is here with this electro-funk sex jam that apparently features backing vocals by members of Devo. Not a combination I'd ever have imagined, but it works. Jermaine's best hit. Texas-born Jennifer Holliday conquered both Broadway and the music charts with this showstopper from the musical Dreamgirls. Former American Idol contestant Jennifer Hudson would later perform this in the film version (and win an Oscar for her efforts), but I can't imagine anyone doing better than Holliday's urgent declaration that "you're gonna love me." I do, Ms. Holliday. I do. And Donna Summer returned to the Top Ten after two years with this nice little funk tune that was produced and co-written by Quincy Jones. It was proof that she still had something to offer after the death of disco (though those whistles in the middle proved that she hadn't left it completely behind).
What's left are two solo Americans and three British acts. First among the former is Michigander Marshall Crenshaw, who got his first big break playing John Lennon in a touring company of Beatlemania and would later play Buddy Holly in La Bamba. His most famous moment as himself came with this catchy retro-rocker about trying to love and understand an enigmatic lover. Joyous and fantastic, it deserved to get much higher than the peak it reached this week. And 60s R&B singer Gary U.S. Bonds had the second and last hit of his Bruce Springsteen-assisted revival with this Boss-penned raveup about being unemployed. Solid stuff, and even better than "This Little Girl."
We finish with the U.K. delegation. Billy Idol scored his first American hit with this sultry rocker about wandering New York in search of adventure in the heat of a summer evening. He captures the vibe perfectly. Among his best work. Second-generation pop star Kim Wilde had her first hit with this song about a rising excitement among the youth of the United States, a "new wave" that is spreading from "New York to East California." Ah yes, that renowned hotbed of teenage rebellion East California. Kind of silly, but indelibly catchy. And prog supergroup Asia followed up the smash "Heat of the Moment" with this big-sounding number about a dying relationship. It's all right, and one of the songs I played a lot on the cassette of their album that I bought, but it just doesn't hold up as well as "Heat of the Moment."
Top Ten sighted, lock and load.
10 - "Take it Away," Paul McCartney
Sir Paul cracked the Top Ten again with this unremarkable bit of soft rock about playing music on the road and stuff. Well put-together, but not much more than background music.
9 - "Wasted on the Way," Crosby, Stills and Nash
CSN's return to the charts after a five-year absence. I'm glad they didn't go after "Just a Song Before I Go." That would have been a sucky way to end their pop hit history.
8 - "Vacation," The Go-Gos
The all-female New Wavers had their second and last Top Ten with this tune about a holiday "meant to be spent alone." Great song, and the video was memorable for its scenes of what appeared to be the band waterskiing in formation. Not only was it not actually them doing the waterskiing, but when their closeups were shot, they were all extremely drunk on champagne. And it shows. I love that.
7 - "Keep the Fire Burnin'," REO Speedwagon
Was the only hit by these guys with "fire" in the title? I think so. Given what they were named after, you'd think there would have been more.
6 - "Even the Nights are Better," Air Supply
Than what, guys? Than what?
5 - "Hard to Say I'm Sorry," Chicago
This song was apparently featured in the 1982 film Summer Lovers, which was about a couple who went to Greece and ended up in a three-way affair with another woman. I've said it before, and I'll say it again: Early 80s movies were much more sexually...interesting than I would have ever imagined.
4 - "Hold Me," Fleetwood Mac
Their usual reliable pop-rock. Always welcome.
3 - "Abracadabra," The Stever Miller Band
You're not as magical as you think you are, Steve.
2 - "Hurts So Good," John Cougar
So it does, John. So it does.
And at the top thirty years ago was...
1 - "Eye of the Tiger," Survivor
The song that inspired Rocky Balboa to get his title back from Clubber Lang. Hey Sly, how come Mr. T hasn't been in either of those Expendables movies? Your casting director better send a call out to him for the next one, or else, I...have sympathy for that unwise person.
This week's NotCaseys were "Nobody" by Sylvia, "Steppin' Out" by Joe Jackson, "I Ran (So Far Away)" by A Flock of Seagulls, and "You Don't Want Me Anymore" by Steel Breeze. Casey played two extras of his own: "Happy" by The Rolling Stones" (the band's only hit with Keith Richards on lead vocals), and "Proud Mary" (Creedence Clearwater Revival's biggest hit. And there were two LDDs: In the first, a man who wanted to let his girlfriend know his intentions toward her were honorable asked Casey to play Air Supply's "Lost in Love." And later, an ex-high school softball player dedicated Joey Scarbury's "Theme from The Greatest American Hero," to her former teammates on the squad that nearly won a state championship.
Okay, here we go. No, I'm not stopping this train. Not yet anyway. But what I've decided to do is stray off the path a little. Starting next week, I'm going to be taking a look at the Billboard Top 40 from the years after Casey stopped doing AT40. I'll start with the chart from September 2, 1989, then the 1990 list corresponding with the next week, then '91, and so on, right on up to today. I think it'll be interesting to see how both"Top Forty" pop and my own relationship to it has evolved over the years.
Now I'm not completely abandoning Casey just like that. Upcoming entries will still include recaps and spotlights on songs from the 70s and 80s shows that I haven't covered yet. And if a show has so much new stuff that it merits its own full entry, I'll try to squeeze it in. But this is the end of an era, and as such, I'd like to give out a few thank-yous:
To Oldies 1150 in Hamilton, for broadcasting the show I heard one summer night that started the germ of this idea.
To the Internet, for making it possible to listen to these shows when it was most convenient for me.
To WWIS in Black River Falls, Wisconsin, for playing the 80s shows on Friday afternoons and allowing me to get a jump on things every week.
To sites like Charis Music Group and Ultimate Music Database, for allowing me to look up the charts ahead of time.
To the American Top 40 - Fun and Games message board for alerting me to what shows would be played in advance, and especially to Jimmy Delach for his comments and input.
To Larry "NotCasey" Morgan (sorry about that!).
To all of you who have taken the time to read this stuff.
And of course, to Casey Kasem.
So there we are. Join me next week as we enter the scary depths of post 1988-pop.
Saturday, August 25, 2012
Sunday, August 19, 2012
August 15, 1987
This week we go back 25 years, to the day after the first Aeropostale clothing store opened. I've never worn any of their clothing, and I doubt I ever will. Thought you'd like to know. Anyway, once again, we've got a lot of repeaters, so it's just one entry this week, starting with 40-11, new stuff in bold.
40 - "One Heartbeat," Smokey Robinson
39 - "I Need Love," L.L. Cool J.
38 - "Who Found Who," Jellybean
37 - "Jam Tonight," Freddie Jackson
36 - "I Heard a Rumour," Bananarama
35 - "Lies," Jonathan Butler
34 - "Kiss Him Goodbye," The Nylons
33 - "Mary's Prayer," Danny Wilson
32 - "Touch of Grey," The Grateful Dead
31 - "Since You've Been Gone," The Outfield
30 - "Wipe Out," The Fat Boys with The Beach Boys
29 - "I'd Still Say Yes," Klymaxx
28 - "I Wanna Dance with Somebody (Who Loves Me)," Whitney Houston
27 - "Give to Live," Sammy Hagar
26 - "Here I Go Again," Whitesnake
25 - "Didn't We Almost Have it All," Whitney Houston
24 - "When Smokey Sings," ABC
23 - "Doing it All for My Baby," Huey Lewis and the News
22 - "Living in a Box," Living in a Box
21 - "The Pleasure Principle," Janet Jackson
20 - "Can't We Try," Dan Hill and Vonda Sheppard
19 - "Seven Wonders," Fleetwood Mac
18 - "Wot's It to Ya," Robbie Nevil
17 - "Alone," Heart
16 - "I Just Can't Stop Loving You," Michael Jackson featuring Siedah Garrett
15 - "Love Power," Dionne Warwick and Jeffrey Osborne
14 - "It's Not Over ('Til it's Over)," Starship
13 - "Back in the High Life Again," Steve Winwood
12 - "Shakedown," Bob Seger
11 - "Rock Steady," The Whispers
Eleven newcomers in this bunch. Let's break 'em down.
We'll star with the R&B. Freddie Jackson had his last pop Top 40 with this midtemp tune on which he seems to be asking someone to dance with him, but I think the "jamming" he wants to do might involve more than that. But that's between him and whoever he's asking. South African soul/jazz guitarist Jonathan Butler is here with his one and only American pop hit, a springy number about falsehoods and their effect on romantic relationship. An okay song, but his rise to stardom out of a country still under apartheid rule is obviousyly inspirational. And Dionne Warwick and Jeffrey Osborne are here with the meh ballad duet that would be the last pop hit for both of them. What is notable about it is that the fist line Dionne sings is "Saw a psychic in L.A." Did she know something even then? She probably did.
Next we go to the British groups. Scotland's Danny Wilson were a trio who named themselves after the title character in a 1952 Frank Sinatra movie. Their only U.S. hit was this catchy-yet-mournful pop ditty about watching a lover you let slip away go on to someone better, and being genuinely happy for them yet still regretful and wondering "what if?" At least that's my interpretation. Regardless, it's an underrated gem, and might slip somewhere onto my Top 100 of the decade. England's The Outfield are here with their third hit, a middling rocker about missing someone. Nowhere near as good as "Your Love," and it was also eclipsed nearly two decades later by another song with the same title by a certain TV talent contest winner. Sorry, The Outfield, but pop culture has so moved on from you. And Sheffield's Living in a Box are here with their self-titled debut single from their self -titled debut album. It's a funky bit of synthpop about feeling closed in. They're kind of like a slightly noisier version of ABC, and that's a good thing.
Then we have three solo men. Sammy Hagar had his last solo hit, and his only one after joining Van Halen, with this earnest ballad about perserverance and stuff. Not much to it, but apparently, Sammy doesn't believe in that "No man is an island." stuff. To him, "each man's a country in his own right." Okay. On an unrelated note, I'd like to declare my intention to participate in the next Olympics under my own flag. In every sport. I may finish last in all of them, but I guarantee my synchronized swimming routine will blow you away. Robbie Nevil had his second and last Top Ten with this reggaeish kiss-off to a lover he once would have given anything to have back, but now that she wants to do so, she's a day late and a dollar short, as the kids don't say. I wasn't that familiar with this one, but it's very good, and a worthy hit. And that harmonica coming in in the middle was a cool little surprise. And Steve Winwood is here with the fourth hit and title track from his most successful album, a bit of optimism about getting back into life and having fun again after a dark period. I can relate. It's probably his best hit.
We'll finish off the newbies with two American-based bands. Fleetwood Mac are here with a sparkly, Stevie Nicks-sung song about how a brief fling can be the most meaningful and wonderful experience of one's life. I'm not so sure about that, but then again, I don't know much about such things. No matter, very good stuff. And Starship had their last Top Ten with a slick-but-forgettable pop-rocker whose Yogi Berra-derived title might be the least cliched lyric in it. Just crap.
Birthday party, Top Ten, jellybeans, boom!
10 - "Rhythm is Gonna Get You," Gloria Estefan and Miami Sound Machine
It just might, Gloria. It just might. And I don't think I'll mind.
9 - "Only in My Dreams," Debbie Gibson
The crown jewel of the late-80s teen-girl pop wars. I'm pretty sure all of Debbie's hits are better than anything Tiffany charted with. Okay, maybe "Electric Youth" might lose out to "Could've Been." Barely. But that's it.
8 - "Cross My Broken Heart," The Jets
Those Wolfgramm kids are here with an okay dance number from the Beverly Hills Cop II soundtrack. Not my thing, but clearly well put-together. I appreciate craftsmanship.
7 - "Don't Mean Nothing," Richard Marx
"It's easy to get stuck in all that California snow," he sings. What snow? It's Los Angeles. That doesn't make sense...wait, he means like "snow job." Ahhh. Clever, Richie-me-boy.
6 - "Heart and Soul," T'Pau
Again, this song is great. Effortlessly earwormy. Another Top 100 contender.
5 - "La Bamba," Los Lobos
I think it's kind of a shame that these guys never had a hit that wasn't a Richie Valens cover. But I have a feeling that this bothers me than it does anyone in the band. Good for them.
4 - "Luka," Suzanne Vega
The California folksinger had her first major hit with this tale of an abused child. The song itself sounds catchy and summery, but it's a delivery system for a serious message. And it works perfectly. But the subject matter was atypical for pop radio at the time, and that makes it this week's Uneasy Rider.
3 - "I Want Your Sex," George Michael
Wow, this song was so controversial at the time that on this week's show, Casey dared not speak its name. That's crazy.
2 - "Who's That Girl," Madonna
The song was a smash. The movie...wasn't. But at least the director went on to make Glengarry Glen Ross. Great film. But poor Jack Lemmon.
And topping the charts 25 years ago was...
1 - "I Still Haven't Found What I'm Looking For," U2
'The Irish megaband's second and last U.S.#1. I swear, if for some reason I'm ever face to face with Bono, the first thing I'm going to say to him is "Found it yet?" I figure he'll either laugh or punch me in the face. Either way, it'd be worth it.
This week's NotCaseys were "Oh Yeah," by Yello, "U Got the Look" by Prince, "Carrie" by Europe, and "Who Will You Run To" by Heart. And there were two LDDs. First, a woman dedicated Club Nouveau's "Lean on Me," to the people at a rehab facility who helped her get over her addictions. And later, a man had Casey play a live version of Elvis Presley's "Suspicious Minds," and dedicated it to all of The King's fans on the tenth anniverary of his death. (This was the same version Casey played on the countdown shortly after he died.)
And the only newbie from this week's 70s show is "Springtime Mama" by Henry Gross. It's better than "Shannon."
Yes, it's been over two years I've been doing this now, but I can tell you I'm going to be back with an 80s recap for at least one more week. After that, it's up in the air. I'm still going to be here talking about music and stuff for at least a little while longer, if all goes to plan. But there will be some different stuff coming up. Just giving you the heads up. Thanks.
40 - "One Heartbeat," Smokey Robinson
39 - "I Need Love," L.L. Cool J.
38 - "Who Found Who," Jellybean
37 - "Jam Tonight," Freddie Jackson
36 - "I Heard a Rumour," Bananarama
35 - "Lies," Jonathan Butler
34 - "Kiss Him Goodbye," The Nylons
33 - "Mary's Prayer," Danny Wilson
32 - "Touch of Grey," The Grateful Dead
31 - "Since You've Been Gone," The Outfield
30 - "Wipe Out," The Fat Boys with The Beach Boys
29 - "I'd Still Say Yes," Klymaxx
28 - "I Wanna Dance with Somebody (Who Loves Me)," Whitney Houston
27 - "Give to Live," Sammy Hagar
26 - "Here I Go Again," Whitesnake
25 - "Didn't We Almost Have it All," Whitney Houston
24 - "When Smokey Sings," ABC
23 - "Doing it All for My Baby," Huey Lewis and the News
22 - "Living in a Box," Living in a Box
21 - "The Pleasure Principle," Janet Jackson
20 - "Can't We Try," Dan Hill and Vonda Sheppard
19 - "Seven Wonders," Fleetwood Mac
18 - "Wot's It to Ya," Robbie Nevil
17 - "Alone," Heart
16 - "I Just Can't Stop Loving You," Michael Jackson featuring Siedah Garrett
15 - "Love Power," Dionne Warwick and Jeffrey Osborne
14 - "It's Not Over ('Til it's Over)," Starship
13 - "Back in the High Life Again," Steve Winwood
12 - "Shakedown," Bob Seger
11 - "Rock Steady," The Whispers
Eleven newcomers in this bunch. Let's break 'em down.
We'll star with the R&B. Freddie Jackson had his last pop Top 40 with this midtemp tune on which he seems to be asking someone to dance with him, but I think the "jamming" he wants to do might involve more than that. But that's between him and whoever he's asking. South African soul/jazz guitarist Jonathan Butler is here with his one and only American pop hit, a springy number about falsehoods and their effect on romantic relationship. An okay song, but his rise to stardom out of a country still under apartheid rule is obviousyly inspirational. And Dionne Warwick and Jeffrey Osborne are here with the meh ballad duet that would be the last pop hit for both of them. What is notable about it is that the fist line Dionne sings is "Saw a psychic in L.A." Did she know something even then? She probably did.
Next we go to the British groups. Scotland's Danny Wilson were a trio who named themselves after the title character in a 1952 Frank Sinatra movie. Their only U.S. hit was this catchy-yet-mournful pop ditty about watching a lover you let slip away go on to someone better, and being genuinely happy for them yet still regretful and wondering "what if?" At least that's my interpretation. Regardless, it's an underrated gem, and might slip somewhere onto my Top 100 of the decade. England's The Outfield are here with their third hit, a middling rocker about missing someone. Nowhere near as good as "Your Love," and it was also eclipsed nearly two decades later by another song with the same title by a certain TV talent contest winner. Sorry, The Outfield, but pop culture has so moved on from you. And Sheffield's Living in a Box are here with their self-titled debut single from their self -titled debut album. It's a funky bit of synthpop about feeling closed in. They're kind of like a slightly noisier version of ABC, and that's a good thing.
Then we have three solo men. Sammy Hagar had his last solo hit, and his only one after joining Van Halen, with this earnest ballad about perserverance and stuff. Not much to it, but apparently, Sammy doesn't believe in that "No man is an island." stuff. To him, "each man's a country in his own right." Okay. On an unrelated note, I'd like to declare my intention to participate in the next Olympics under my own flag. In every sport. I may finish last in all of them, but I guarantee my synchronized swimming routine will blow you away. Robbie Nevil had his second and last Top Ten with this reggaeish kiss-off to a lover he once would have given anything to have back, but now that she wants to do so, she's a day late and a dollar short, as the kids don't say. I wasn't that familiar with this one, but it's very good, and a worthy hit. And that harmonica coming in in the middle was a cool little surprise. And Steve Winwood is here with the fourth hit and title track from his most successful album, a bit of optimism about getting back into life and having fun again after a dark period. I can relate. It's probably his best hit.
We'll finish off the newbies with two American-based bands. Fleetwood Mac are here with a sparkly, Stevie Nicks-sung song about how a brief fling can be the most meaningful and wonderful experience of one's life. I'm not so sure about that, but then again, I don't know much about such things. No matter, very good stuff. And Starship had their last Top Ten with a slick-but-forgettable pop-rocker whose Yogi Berra-derived title might be the least cliched lyric in it. Just crap.
Birthday party, Top Ten, jellybeans, boom!
10 - "Rhythm is Gonna Get You," Gloria Estefan and Miami Sound Machine
It just might, Gloria. It just might. And I don't think I'll mind.
9 - "Only in My Dreams," Debbie Gibson
The crown jewel of the late-80s teen-girl pop wars. I'm pretty sure all of Debbie's hits are better than anything Tiffany charted with. Okay, maybe "Electric Youth" might lose out to "Could've Been." Barely. But that's it.
8 - "Cross My Broken Heart," The Jets
Those Wolfgramm kids are here with an okay dance number from the Beverly Hills Cop II soundtrack. Not my thing, but clearly well put-together. I appreciate craftsmanship.
7 - "Don't Mean Nothing," Richard Marx
"It's easy to get stuck in all that California snow," he sings. What snow? It's Los Angeles. That doesn't make sense...wait, he means like "snow job." Ahhh. Clever, Richie-me-boy.
6 - "Heart and Soul," T'Pau
Again, this song is great. Effortlessly earwormy. Another Top 100 contender.
5 - "La Bamba," Los Lobos
I think it's kind of a shame that these guys never had a hit that wasn't a Richie Valens cover. But I have a feeling that this bothers me than it does anyone in the band. Good for them.
4 - "Luka," Suzanne Vega
The California folksinger had her first major hit with this tale of an abused child. The song itself sounds catchy and summery, but it's a delivery system for a serious message. And it works perfectly. But the subject matter was atypical for pop radio at the time, and that makes it this week's Uneasy Rider.
3 - "I Want Your Sex," George Michael
Wow, this song was so controversial at the time that on this week's show, Casey dared not speak its name. That's crazy.
2 - "Who's That Girl," Madonna
The song was a smash. The movie...wasn't. But at least the director went on to make Glengarry Glen Ross. Great film. But poor Jack Lemmon.
And topping the charts 25 years ago was...
1 - "I Still Haven't Found What I'm Looking For," U2
'The Irish megaband's second and last U.S.#1. I swear, if for some reason I'm ever face to face with Bono, the first thing I'm going to say to him is "Found it yet?" I figure he'll either laugh or punch me in the face. Either way, it'd be worth it.
This week's NotCaseys were "Oh Yeah," by Yello, "U Got the Look" by Prince, "Carrie" by Europe, and "Who Will You Run To" by Heart. And there were two LDDs. First, a woman dedicated Club Nouveau's "Lean on Me," to the people at a rehab facility who helped her get over her addictions. And later, a man had Casey play a live version of Elvis Presley's "Suspicious Minds," and dedicated it to all of The King's fans on the tenth anniverary of his death. (This was the same version Casey played on the countdown shortly after he died.)
And the only newbie from this week's 70s show is "Springtime Mama" by Henry Gross. It's better than "Shannon."
Yes, it's been over two years I've been doing this now, but I can tell you I'm going to be back with an 80s recap for at least one more week. After that, it's up in the air. I'm still going to be here talking about music and stuff for at least a little while longer, if all goes to plan. But there will be some different stuff coming up. Just giving you the heads up. Thanks.
Friday, August 17, 2012
Odds and ends from 70s summers
Sofor the last few weeks I haven't always been adding 70s updates to my regular 80s coverage, and as it turns out, quite a few songs have slipped through the cracks. But now, I'm fishing them out and giving them their moments, in chronological order
AUGUST 15, 1970
30 - "Big Yellow Taxi," The Neighborhood
I don't know much about this group, except that they were made up of nine singers and their debut album was called Debut. Anyway, this was the first hit version of Joni Mitchell's classic environmental anthem. Some people seem to like it, but to me it sounds cheesily neutered. Stiil, it's not the worst version I've ever heard. I'm looking at you, Counting Crows.
JULY 27, 1974
12 - "On and On," Gladys Knight and the Pips
The legendary group's last pop Top 5 was this fantastically funky love groove that was written and produced by Curtis Mayfield for the soundtrack of the film Claudine, which starred Diahann Carroll and James Earl Jones as working-class lovers. It was also the film debut of Lawrence Hilton-Jacobs, who would later find fame as Freddie "Boom Boom" Washington on Welcome Back, Kotter. Speaking of which, RIP Ron Palillo.
17 - "Finally Got Myself Together (I'm a Changed Man)," The Impressions
Another Curtis Mayfield connection, as he was a co-founder of this group, and had a string of hits with them from 1958 to 1970. He left at that point, but the group carried on, and their only major pop hit without him was this sweet bit of soul about getting away from a destructive lifestyle with the help of, what else, love. Great stuff.
21 - "If You Talk in Your Sleep," Elvis Presley
The King is here with this stylish bit of R&B that warns his attached lover not to divulge their secret. Definitely one of his better performances this decade.
22 - "Machine Gun," The Commodores
This group would have their greatest successes on the strength of the distinctive vocals of Lionel Richie, so it's interesting to note that their first hit was an instrumental. An insanely funky one that makes great use of synthesizers. Love it.
24 - "This Heart," Gene Redding
This soul man was born in Indiana, and discovered in Alaska by Etta James. His only major hit was this proto-disco number in which he asks a woman not to be the first to break his heart. Wow, there were a lot of gems on this list.
26 - "Fish Ain't Bitin'," Lamont Dozier
The great Motown songwriter had the last of his two Top 40s as an artist with this midtempo soul song about the struggles of life. It also takes time out to urge the current president to resign ("Tricky Dick, please quit.") Two weeks later, he would. Thanks, Lamont.
29 - "You Won't See Me," Anne Murray
The Nova Scotian scored her third U.S. Top Ten with this cover of a song from The Beatles' Rubber Soul LP. Apparently, John Lennon told her it was his favorite Beatles cover ever. She does okay with it, but I respectfully disagree.
35 - "Come Monday," Jimmy Buffett
The head Parrothead had his first pop hit with this gentle ballad on which he promises to return to his lover after his time in "a brown L.A. haze." Just a nice little folk song that give no clue of the cult following its author would inspire.
37 - "Workin' at the Car Wash Blues," Jim Croce
Croce's final posthumous hit was this bluesy lament of a man who thinks he deserves to be living way above his current station. Not one of his bigger hits, but possibly his best.
AUGUST 13, 1977
37 - "It's a Crazy World," Mac McAnally
This Alabama singer-songwriter currently plays guitar in Jimmy Buffet's Coral Reefer Band, but his first bit of attention came with this reflective country-folk ballad about the mysteries of life. Cool little tune.
40 - "Sunflower," Glen Campbell
The country star's next-to-last pop hit was this Neil Diamond-penned tune on which he warns "I'm gonna love you if you come my way." Run! No, seriously, this is cool and catchy.
JULY 14, 1979
39 - "If I Said You Had a Beautiful Body, Would You Hold it Against Me," The Bellamy Brothers
David and Homer's second and last pop hit was this bad pickup line set to Jimmy Buffettesque island folk. Cheesy, yet somehow charming.
40 - "Married Men," Bette Midler
Miss M's fourth Top 40 was this disco number about the perils of dallying with betrothed males. Her voice works well with the style, but then again, it worked with pretty much any style. Bette's versatility is somewhat underrated, I think.
AUGUST 4, 1979
37 - "Kiss in the Dark," Pink Lady
This duo made up of Japanese singers Mitsuyo "Mie" Nemoto and Keiko "Kei" Masuda were one of the biggest pop acts in their native land during the late 70s, and their first attempt to conquer America was this tepid disco number that they had to sing phoenetically because they didn't know much English. But of course, their story doesn't stop there. The next year, NBC hired the ladies to host their own self-titled variety show, with help from comedian Jeff Altman. The network spared no expense in rounding up celebrity guests (Hugh Hefner, Jerry Lewis, Larry "J.R." Hagman), but the language barrier and the public's tiring of variety shows in general helped make the show a renowned disaster that only lasted six episodes. And yes, I can remember watching at least one episode. Anyway, it's one of the more interesting showbiz stories I've come across while doing these.
Okay, that's taken care of. In the next day or so, regular 80s coverage will resume.
AUGUST 15, 1970
30 - "Big Yellow Taxi," The Neighborhood
I don't know much about this group, except that they were made up of nine singers and their debut album was called Debut. Anyway, this was the first hit version of Joni Mitchell's classic environmental anthem. Some people seem to like it, but to me it sounds cheesily neutered. Stiil, it's not the worst version I've ever heard. I'm looking at you, Counting Crows.
JULY 27, 1974
12 - "On and On," Gladys Knight and the Pips
The legendary group's last pop Top 5 was this fantastically funky love groove that was written and produced by Curtis Mayfield for the soundtrack of the film Claudine, which starred Diahann Carroll and James Earl Jones as working-class lovers. It was also the film debut of Lawrence Hilton-Jacobs, who would later find fame as Freddie "Boom Boom" Washington on Welcome Back, Kotter. Speaking of which, RIP Ron Palillo.
17 - "Finally Got Myself Together (I'm a Changed Man)," The Impressions
Another Curtis Mayfield connection, as he was a co-founder of this group, and had a string of hits with them from 1958 to 1970. He left at that point, but the group carried on, and their only major pop hit without him was this sweet bit of soul about getting away from a destructive lifestyle with the help of, what else, love. Great stuff.
21 - "If You Talk in Your Sleep," Elvis Presley
The King is here with this stylish bit of R&B that warns his attached lover not to divulge their secret. Definitely one of his better performances this decade.
22 - "Machine Gun," The Commodores
This group would have their greatest successes on the strength of the distinctive vocals of Lionel Richie, so it's interesting to note that their first hit was an instrumental. An insanely funky one that makes great use of synthesizers. Love it.
24 - "This Heart," Gene Redding
This soul man was born in Indiana, and discovered in Alaska by Etta James. His only major hit was this proto-disco number in which he asks a woman not to be the first to break his heart. Wow, there were a lot of gems on this list.
26 - "Fish Ain't Bitin'," Lamont Dozier
The great Motown songwriter had the last of his two Top 40s as an artist with this midtempo soul song about the struggles of life. It also takes time out to urge the current president to resign ("Tricky Dick, please quit.") Two weeks later, he would. Thanks, Lamont.
29 - "You Won't See Me," Anne Murray
The Nova Scotian scored her third U.S. Top Ten with this cover of a song from The Beatles' Rubber Soul LP. Apparently, John Lennon told her it was his favorite Beatles cover ever. She does okay with it, but I respectfully disagree.
35 - "Come Monday," Jimmy Buffett
The head Parrothead had his first pop hit with this gentle ballad on which he promises to return to his lover after his time in "a brown L.A. haze." Just a nice little folk song that give no clue of the cult following its author would inspire.
37 - "Workin' at the Car Wash Blues," Jim Croce
Croce's final posthumous hit was this bluesy lament of a man who thinks he deserves to be living way above his current station. Not one of his bigger hits, but possibly his best.
AUGUST 13, 1977
37 - "It's a Crazy World," Mac McAnally
This Alabama singer-songwriter currently plays guitar in Jimmy Buffet's Coral Reefer Band, but his first bit of attention came with this reflective country-folk ballad about the mysteries of life. Cool little tune.
40 - "Sunflower," Glen Campbell
The country star's next-to-last pop hit was this Neil Diamond-penned tune on which he warns "I'm gonna love you if you come my way." Run! No, seriously, this is cool and catchy.
JULY 14, 1979
39 - "If I Said You Had a Beautiful Body, Would You Hold it Against Me," The Bellamy Brothers
David and Homer's second and last pop hit was this bad pickup line set to Jimmy Buffettesque island folk. Cheesy, yet somehow charming.
40 - "Married Men," Bette Midler
Miss M's fourth Top 40 was this disco number about the perils of dallying with betrothed males. Her voice works well with the style, but then again, it worked with pretty much any style. Bette's versatility is somewhat underrated, I think.
AUGUST 4, 1979
37 - "Kiss in the Dark," Pink Lady
This duo made up of Japanese singers Mitsuyo "Mie" Nemoto and Keiko "Kei" Masuda were one of the biggest pop acts in their native land during the late 70s, and their first attempt to conquer America was this tepid disco number that they had to sing phoenetically because they didn't know much English. But of course, their story doesn't stop there. The next year, NBC hired the ladies to host their own self-titled variety show, with help from comedian Jeff Altman. The network spared no expense in rounding up celebrity guests (Hugh Hefner, Jerry Lewis, Larry "J.R." Hagman), but the language barrier and the public's tiring of variety shows in general helped make the show a renowned disaster that only lasted six episodes. And yes, I can remember watching at least one episode. Anyway, it's one of the more interesting showbiz stories I've come across while doing these.
Okay, that's taken care of. In the next day or so, regular 80s coverage will resume.
Monday, August 13, 2012
August 11, 1984 Part Two
Wrapping up '84.
20 - "She Bop," Cyndi Lauper
19 - "If This is It," Huey Lewis and the News
18 - "Jump (For My Love)," The Pointer Sisters
17 - "Round and Round," Ratt
16 - "Eyes Without a Face," Billy Idol
The second half kicks off with Cyndi Lauper's ode to doing pleasant things to herself while looking at pictures of a guy in tight jeans. Listening to this is just about the most fun you can have with your pants on. But that, of course, is optional. Unless you're in public.
Another October returnee is Huey Lewis and associates' mediocre bit of doo-wop. A better title might have been "This is it?"
Next are the siblings Pointer, back from May with their promise that "Heaven waits here at my door." Not their best, but they did sexy well.
Then it's the first and biggest hit for the SoCal hair metallers originally known as Mickey Ratt. This grinding, catchy rocker is truly one of the classics of the genre. Fun to sing along and air-guitar to. Plus, they were managed by Milton Berle's nephew, which is how Uncle Milty himself ended up in the video. I'm sure the band respected him, for many reasons.
Closing out this group is Billy Idol, back from this spring with his dark rock ballad about someone who's "got no human grace." And it was a while before I learned that the backup singers were singing the title in French ("Les yeux sans visage."). I had a similar experience with Peter Gabriel's "Games Without Frontiers." For years I thought Kate Bush was singing "She's so popular," instead of "Jeux sans frontieres."
15 - "Panama," Van Halen
14 - "Legs," ZZ Top
13 - "If Ever You're in My Arms Again," Peabo Bryson
12 - "Missing You," John Waite
11 - "Breakin'...There's No Stopping Us," Ollie and Jerry
This section is led off by Van Halen's final Top 40 hit with Diamond Dave at the mic. Apparently, it was written about a car called "The Panama Express" that Dave had seen in a race in Las Vegas. It makes driving sound like an almost sexual experience. It's never really been like that for me, but I suppose I can see it.
ZZ Top had been winning over MTV viewers for over a year with the chicks-cars-and-beards formula employed in the videos for "Gimme All Your Lovin'" and "Sharp Dressed Man," but it wasn't until the summer of '84 that they finally achieved mainstream pop radio success with this bluesy dance number about worshipping a lady with lovely lower appendages and "hair down to her fanny." Ofie course, it had a video featuring hot women arriving in the iconic Eliminator car and helping a dowdy salesgirl overcome bullying and win her dream guy through the power of a slutty makeover. Progressive. And as a kid, I was impressed at how ofter radio and TV stations played the line "Shit, I gotta have her" uncensored. But apparently radio has gotten wise to the stealth obscenity, because the line was digitally distorted on this airing. Damn.
Next is Peabo Bryson with his biggest solo pop hit, a song on which he asks a lover for another chance, despite knowing that "a second once-in-a-lifetime may be too much to ask." Smooth, serviceable soul balladry.
Then ex-Baby/future Bad Englishman John Waite returns from last fall with his song of denial. Still solid pop-rock, but not quite top-drawer.
This quintet is anchored by the only hit from the combination of session drummer Ollie E. Brown and former Raydio member Jerry Knight, the title song from the movie that helped popularize breakdancing in mainstream culture. Yes, I saw that movie in a theater back in the day. But no, I have never seen Breakin' 2: Electric Boogaloo. As for the song, it's just run-of-the-mill electro-pop-funk with lyrics about climbing and fighting and such. Justly forgotten.
Into the Valley of Death rode the Top Ten.
10 - "Sunglasses at Night," Corey Hart
The first and best-remembered hit by the Montreal heartthrob is this synth-rock tune about donning eyewear designed to reduce solar glare in the evening hours. The beat and the cadence of the main keyboard riff are somewhat derivative of Eurythmics' "Sweet Dreams," but Hart's rasp-whine on the choruses and lyrics like "Don't switch the blade on the guy in shades, oh no!" make it its own delightfuly daft concoction, and the winner of this week's Uneasy Rider.
9 - "Infatuation," Rod Stewart
Rod the Bod hit the Top Ten again with this rocker about lust. I remember that in the video, he was stalking a woman with a camera. Good times. Not a bad little song though. But is it just me, or was Rod one of the few British pop/rock icons who wasn't referenced during either the opening or closing ceremonies of the London Olympics? If I missed one, I stand corrected, but if I didn't, that's a little curious.
8 - "I Can Dream About You," Dan Hartman
This native of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania played bass in The Edgar Winter Group during the early seventies, then had a disco smash in the latter half of the decade with "Instant Replay." But his biggest solo pop success came with this soul-pop number from the soundtrack to the "rock n' roll fable" film Streets of Fire. The movie flopped, but it seems to be somewhat of an interesting failure, which makes me think I might want to see it someday. That, and a young Diane Lane.
7 - "Dancing in the Dark," Bruce Springsteen
The first single from the blockbuster Born in the U.S.A. LP is this big-beated anthem about feeling bored and isolated and wanting to find some "action," whatever that may entail. An undeniable pop stomper, and deservedly The Boss' biggest hit. Plus, the video introduced the world to Courteney Cox, who would go on to take the world by storm in the NBC series Misfits of Science. I'm not sure what happened to her after that.
6 - "Stuck on You," Lionel Richie
Lionel returns from October with his country ballad of devotion. I still can't believe his latest album has sold more than any other this year...well, except that Adele record. Not even Lionel can stop that train.
5 - "Sad Songs (Say So Much)," Elton John
Sir Elton maintained his radio presence with this song about those depressing tunes that "reach into your room" and make you "feel their gentle touch" when you're feeling blue. Above-average stuff for him in this decade. And come to think of it, I don't remember him being referenced in the Olympic festivities either. Hmmm.
4 - "What's Love Got to Do With It," Tina Turner
A lot, Tina. You reminded us how great you are on this, we remembered that we love you, and you went straight back to the top.
3 - "State of Shock," The Jacksons featuring Michael Jackson and Mick Jagger
The first single from the brothers' Victory album was this strutting rocker that Michael had originally planned to record with Freddie Mercury for Thriller, but when that didn't come about, he let his siblings and a Stone come along for the ride. A decent enough song, but not very well-remembered. And I think Freddie would have dome much better with it.
2 - "When Doves Cry," Prince
This lead single from Purple Rain became Prince's first Number One, and it's obvious why. It's sensual, sexual, atmospheric funk about a troubled relationship that just cannot be denied. A monster from the word go. And if you want to know what doves crying feels like, I've heard that it's kind of like being a kid named Milhouse and finding out that there's another kid named Milhouse in the world.
And at the top back then was...
1 - "Ghostbusters," Ray Parker, Jr.
And here it is at last, the theme tune from the smash sci-fi comedy that introduced me to the Sta-Puft Marshmallow Man. And as I've mentioned once or twice, it's also the song that got Ray sued by Huey Lewis. I guess Huey had a case, but like I inferred earlier, by this standard, Dave Stewart and Annie Lennox could have gone after Corey Hart. Anyway, it's a fun song, and was Ray's biggest hit by far. Five years later, there was a sequel, and theme-song duties were given to Bobby Brown. And of course, there's long been talk of a Ghostbusters 3. All that seems to have been established about that is that Dan Aykroyd is committed to doing it, and Bill Murray is committed to not doing it. But if it does happen, my money's on Chris Brown doing the song.
This week's NotCaseys were "Cover Me" by Bruce Springsteen, "Go Insane" by Lindsey Buckingham, "The Lucky One" by Laura Branigan, and "Hard Habit to Break" by Chicago. As an extra, Casey played Aretha Franklin's "Respect," because the Queen of Soul was set to debut on Broadway in a musical about gospel legend Mahalia Jackson. (This didn't happen. Aretha pulled out, and was later successfully sued for breach of contract.). And there were two LDDs. In the first, a woman dedicated Phil Collins' "Against All Odds" to her best friend. And later, a Vietnam vet scarred by the horrors of war dedicated Debby Boone's "You Light Up My Life" to the woman who taught him to love again.
Within the next couple of days, if all goes according to plan: That 70s "odds and ends" post you've all been clamoring for. At least I assume you have.
20 - "She Bop," Cyndi Lauper
19 - "If This is It," Huey Lewis and the News
18 - "Jump (For My Love)," The Pointer Sisters
17 - "Round and Round," Ratt
16 - "Eyes Without a Face," Billy Idol
The second half kicks off with Cyndi Lauper's ode to doing pleasant things to herself while looking at pictures of a guy in tight jeans. Listening to this is just about the most fun you can have with your pants on. But that, of course, is optional. Unless you're in public.
Another October returnee is Huey Lewis and associates' mediocre bit of doo-wop. A better title might have been "This is it?"
Next are the siblings Pointer, back from May with their promise that "Heaven waits here at my door." Not their best, but they did sexy well.
Then it's the first and biggest hit for the SoCal hair metallers originally known as Mickey Ratt. This grinding, catchy rocker is truly one of the classics of the genre. Fun to sing along and air-guitar to. Plus, they were managed by Milton Berle's nephew, which is how Uncle Milty himself ended up in the video. I'm sure the band respected him, for many reasons.
Closing out this group is Billy Idol, back from this spring with his dark rock ballad about someone who's "got no human grace." And it was a while before I learned that the backup singers were singing the title in French ("Les yeux sans visage."). I had a similar experience with Peter Gabriel's "Games Without Frontiers." For years I thought Kate Bush was singing "She's so popular," instead of "Jeux sans frontieres."
15 - "Panama," Van Halen
14 - "Legs," ZZ Top
13 - "If Ever You're in My Arms Again," Peabo Bryson
12 - "Missing You," John Waite
11 - "Breakin'...There's No Stopping Us," Ollie and Jerry
This section is led off by Van Halen's final Top 40 hit with Diamond Dave at the mic. Apparently, it was written about a car called "The Panama Express" that Dave had seen in a race in Las Vegas. It makes driving sound like an almost sexual experience. It's never really been like that for me, but I suppose I can see it.
ZZ Top had been winning over MTV viewers for over a year with the chicks-cars-and-beards formula employed in the videos for "Gimme All Your Lovin'" and "Sharp Dressed Man," but it wasn't until the summer of '84 that they finally achieved mainstream pop radio success with this bluesy dance number about worshipping a lady with lovely lower appendages and "hair down to her fanny." Ofie course, it had a video featuring hot women arriving in the iconic Eliminator car and helping a dowdy salesgirl overcome bullying and win her dream guy through the power of a slutty makeover. Progressive. And as a kid, I was impressed at how ofter radio and TV stations played the line "Shit, I gotta have her" uncensored. But apparently radio has gotten wise to the stealth obscenity, because the line was digitally distorted on this airing. Damn.
Next is Peabo Bryson with his biggest solo pop hit, a song on which he asks a lover for another chance, despite knowing that "a second once-in-a-lifetime may be too much to ask." Smooth, serviceable soul balladry.
Then ex-Baby/future Bad Englishman John Waite returns from last fall with his song of denial. Still solid pop-rock, but not quite top-drawer.
This quintet is anchored by the only hit from the combination of session drummer Ollie E. Brown and former Raydio member Jerry Knight, the title song from the movie that helped popularize breakdancing in mainstream culture. Yes, I saw that movie in a theater back in the day. But no, I have never seen Breakin' 2: Electric Boogaloo. As for the song, it's just run-of-the-mill electro-pop-funk with lyrics about climbing and fighting and such. Justly forgotten.
Into the Valley of Death rode the Top Ten.
10 - "Sunglasses at Night," Corey Hart
The first and best-remembered hit by the Montreal heartthrob is this synth-rock tune about donning eyewear designed to reduce solar glare in the evening hours. The beat and the cadence of the main keyboard riff are somewhat derivative of Eurythmics' "Sweet Dreams," but Hart's rasp-whine on the choruses and lyrics like "Don't switch the blade on the guy in shades, oh no!" make it its own delightfuly daft concoction, and the winner of this week's Uneasy Rider.
9 - "Infatuation," Rod Stewart
Rod the Bod hit the Top Ten again with this rocker about lust. I remember that in the video, he was stalking a woman with a camera. Good times. Not a bad little song though. But is it just me, or was Rod one of the few British pop/rock icons who wasn't referenced during either the opening or closing ceremonies of the London Olympics? If I missed one, I stand corrected, but if I didn't, that's a little curious.
8 - "I Can Dream About You," Dan Hartman
This native of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania played bass in The Edgar Winter Group during the early seventies, then had a disco smash in the latter half of the decade with "Instant Replay." But his biggest solo pop success came with this soul-pop number from the soundtrack to the "rock n' roll fable" film Streets of Fire. The movie flopped, but it seems to be somewhat of an interesting failure, which makes me think I might want to see it someday. That, and a young Diane Lane.
7 - "Dancing in the Dark," Bruce Springsteen
The first single from the blockbuster Born in the U.S.A. LP is this big-beated anthem about feeling bored and isolated and wanting to find some "action," whatever that may entail. An undeniable pop stomper, and deservedly The Boss' biggest hit. Plus, the video introduced the world to Courteney Cox, who would go on to take the world by storm in the NBC series Misfits of Science. I'm not sure what happened to her after that.
6 - "Stuck on You," Lionel Richie
Lionel returns from October with his country ballad of devotion. I still can't believe his latest album has sold more than any other this year...well, except that Adele record. Not even Lionel can stop that train.
5 - "Sad Songs (Say So Much)," Elton John
Sir Elton maintained his radio presence with this song about those depressing tunes that "reach into your room" and make you "feel their gentle touch" when you're feeling blue. Above-average stuff for him in this decade. And come to think of it, I don't remember him being referenced in the Olympic festivities either. Hmmm.
4 - "What's Love Got to Do With It," Tina Turner
A lot, Tina. You reminded us how great you are on this, we remembered that we love you, and you went straight back to the top.
3 - "State of Shock," The Jacksons featuring Michael Jackson and Mick Jagger
The first single from the brothers' Victory album was this strutting rocker that Michael had originally planned to record with Freddie Mercury for Thriller, but when that didn't come about, he let his siblings and a Stone come along for the ride. A decent enough song, but not very well-remembered. And I think Freddie would have dome much better with it.
2 - "When Doves Cry," Prince
This lead single from Purple Rain became Prince's first Number One, and it's obvious why. It's sensual, sexual, atmospheric funk about a troubled relationship that just cannot be denied. A monster from the word go. And if you want to know what doves crying feels like, I've heard that it's kind of like being a kid named Milhouse and finding out that there's another kid named Milhouse in the world.
And at the top back then was...
1 - "Ghostbusters," Ray Parker, Jr.
And here it is at last, the theme tune from the smash sci-fi comedy that introduced me to the Sta-Puft Marshmallow Man. And as I've mentioned once or twice, it's also the song that got Ray sued by Huey Lewis. I guess Huey had a case, but like I inferred earlier, by this standard, Dave Stewart and Annie Lennox could have gone after Corey Hart. Anyway, it's a fun song, and was Ray's biggest hit by far. Five years later, there was a sequel, and theme-song duties were given to Bobby Brown. And of course, there's long been talk of a Ghostbusters 3. All that seems to have been established about that is that Dan Aykroyd is committed to doing it, and Bill Murray is committed to not doing it. But if it does happen, my money's on Chris Brown doing the song.
This week's NotCaseys were "Cover Me" by Bruce Springsteen, "Go Insane" by Lindsey Buckingham, "The Lucky One" by Laura Branigan, and "Hard Habit to Break" by Chicago. As an extra, Casey played Aretha Franklin's "Respect," because the Queen of Soul was set to debut on Broadway in a musical about gospel legend Mahalia Jackson. (This didn't happen. Aretha pulled out, and was later successfully sued for breach of contract.). And there were two LDDs. In the first, a woman dedicated Phil Collins' "Against All Odds" to her best friend. And later, a Vietnam vet scarred by the horrors of war dedicated Debby Boone's "You Light Up My Life" to the woman who taught him to love again.
Within the next couple of days, if all goes according to plan: That 70s "odds and ends" post you've all been clamoring for. At least I assume you have.
Saturday, August 11, 2012
August 11, 1984 Part One
First of all, I apologize for not doing that 70s odds and ends post I promised last time. It's been a busy week. But I do plan to do it sometime after this week's regular 80s lookback.
Which brings us to August 1984. On the day this countdown aired, Ronald Reagan joked during the sound check for his weekly radio address that he had ordered a massive bombing attack on Russia. The joke didn't air, but word did get out, and it was sufficient enough to create a brief state of alert among certain Soviet forces. Ah, those were the days. Anyway, while the Great Communicator was making light of nuclear annihilation, these were the songs that other radio stations were playing.
40 - "Right By Your Side," Eurythmics
39 - "My Oh My," Slade
38 - "Almost Paradise," Mike Reno and Nancy Wilson
37 - "Cruel Summer," Bananarama
36 - "When You Close Your Eyes," Night Ranger
35 - "Let's Go Crazy," Prince and the Revolution
34 - "Drive," The Cars
33 - "Dynamite," Jermaine Jackson
32 - "Turn to You," The Go-Gos
31 - "Leave a Tender Moment Alone," Billy Joel
We'll start with British groups. Eurythmics are here with one of their lesser American hits, a Latin/Calypso-flavored ode to a lover. Just fun smiley pop, a departure from the icily cool stuff they'd previously charted with. Veteran rockers Slade had their second and last American hit with this anthemic ballad about how we can all come together and no one has to be lonely and face the world alone. Maybe not a great song, but I imagine it would be fun to sing along to with a bunch of drunken friends. And the girls of Bananarama return from last October with their song about how hot the months of July and August are. And honestly, for me, this summer has been far from cruel. It's actually been pretty nice.
The other seven songs I'm just dividing into sections marked "Rock" and "Um, not rock, really." First among the latter, ironically, is a duet between the lead singers of the hard rock bands Loverboy and Heart. We covered this Footloose cheese ballad last time, and I have nothing to add. Back from October is Jermaine Jackson's sex jam that's more of a blasting cap than a load of TNT. And Billy Joel had his fifth hit from the An Innocent Man LP with this harmonica-laden homage to midtempo R&B ballads of the fifties and sixties. He sings okay, and his heart's in the right place, but this is a little bland to my taste.
We finish with the rock. Night Ranger are back from last October with a rocker on which drummer Kelly Keagy sings about wondering if an old flame still misses him and the times they had sex in the back of a Chevy. I don't know if he ever found the answer, and I don't want to speculate. Also back from that chart is Prince, who advises one and all to "look for the purple banana before they put us in the truck." I wiil, Prince! I will! The Cars make three October returnees with their ballad of concern for a friend's travel arrangements. They slowed things down, but maintained what made them who they were. Always a noteworthy accomplishment. And The Go-Gos had their final Top 40 hit with this power-popper about wanting a lover to make himself emotionally available. This frequently jockeys for top spot on my Go-Gos favorites list with "Head Over Heels." Just when I think the latter has permanently taken #1, I hear this again, and my inner debate begins anew.
30 - "All of You," Julio Iglesias and Diana Ross
29 - "Alibis," Sergio Mendes
28 - "Self Control," Laura Branigan
27 - "The Glamorous Life," Sheila E.
26 - "I'm Free (Heaven Helps the Man)," Kenny Loggins
25 - "The Warrior," Scandal featuring Patty Smyth
24 - "Sexy Girl," Glenn Frey
23 - "Lights Out," Peter Wolf
22 - "Rock Me Tonite," Billy Squier
21 - "She's Mine," Steve Perry
This group contains quite a bit of the soft stuff. After picking up his first English hit in America with help from Willie Nelson, Julio Iglesias followed it up with another duet, this one with Diana Ross. The blend of the two voices on this romantic ballad is less jarring then the one on "To All the Girls I've Loved Before," but that strangeness was part of its charm. This is just another love song, and it's been justly forgotten. Brazil's Sergio Mendes had his last American hit with this MOR pop song on which singer Joe Pizzulo suspects his lover of cheating. It's much better than "Never Gonna Let You Go," but I hate that song, so that doesn't say a lot. Ex-Eagle Glenn Frey is here with a bland midtempo number about lusting after an unattainable neighbor. More evidence to throw on my "Why Glenn Frey sucks on his own" pile. And Steve Perry followed up "Oh Sherrie," with this midtempo ballad on which he threatens other men who might even be remotely interested in his girlfriend. Possessiveness...sooooo sexy.
The other songs I'm dividing into "Sung by Women" and "Sung by...um, what do you call them...oh yeah, men." Laura Branigan returns from this past May with her ominous rocker about looking for lust in all the so-wrong-it's-right places. Her best moment. And the other two in this category are back from last October. First it's Sheila E. with her funky ode to falling in love when that's not your objective. I wonder if there really is a "55 Secret Street" somewhere in the world. And if you had sex there, would you be arrested? And then it's Patty Smyth and her band with her totally-80s classic about love as struggle between hunter and prey. I wonder what she'd have said then if you'd told her that thirteen years after this, she'd marry John McEnroe. Perhaps something along the lines of "You can't be serious! You can NOT be SERIOUS!"
We finish off the first half with the singing dudes. Kenny Loggins is here with his other contribution to the Footloose soundtrack. It's a mild rocker about staying where he is to fight for love. A much smaller hit than the title tune, and deservedly so. The man born Peter Blankfield had his first and biggest hit after leaving The J. Geils Band with this funky rock ode to "dancing in the dark to the radio of love." Interesting metaphor. What could it possibly mean? Don't matter, fun song. And rocker Billy Squier had what would be his biggest pop hit with this energetic and catchy number about going out into the evening to find adventure and such. However, the song's video, which featured Squier dancing around his bedroom in a pink tank top, is cited by most observers (and Billy himself) as being responsible for the steep decline in his career. Me, I didn't think it was that bad, but I see the point. There was a certain element of the "rock" audience back then who didn't want to see someone they regarded as a meat-and-potatoes guitar slinger move like that. Sad, but true.
Tomorrow (all dates approximate. Card subject to change.): rodent rock; a song that isn't about hats, canals, or Manuel Noriega; and a vocal duel between two of the biggest music stars ever.
Which brings us to August 1984. On the day this countdown aired, Ronald Reagan joked during the sound check for his weekly radio address that he had ordered a massive bombing attack on Russia. The joke didn't air, but word did get out, and it was sufficient enough to create a brief state of alert among certain Soviet forces. Ah, those were the days. Anyway, while the Great Communicator was making light of nuclear annihilation, these were the songs that other radio stations were playing.
40 - "Right By Your Side," Eurythmics
39 - "My Oh My," Slade
38 - "Almost Paradise," Mike Reno and Nancy Wilson
37 - "Cruel Summer," Bananarama
36 - "When You Close Your Eyes," Night Ranger
35 - "Let's Go Crazy," Prince and the Revolution
34 - "Drive," The Cars
33 - "Dynamite," Jermaine Jackson
32 - "Turn to You," The Go-Gos
31 - "Leave a Tender Moment Alone," Billy Joel
We'll start with British groups. Eurythmics are here with one of their lesser American hits, a Latin/Calypso-flavored ode to a lover. Just fun smiley pop, a departure from the icily cool stuff they'd previously charted with. Veteran rockers Slade had their second and last American hit with this anthemic ballad about how we can all come together and no one has to be lonely and face the world alone. Maybe not a great song, but I imagine it would be fun to sing along to with a bunch of drunken friends. And the girls of Bananarama return from last October with their song about how hot the months of July and August are. And honestly, for me, this summer has been far from cruel. It's actually been pretty nice.
The other seven songs I'm just dividing into sections marked "Rock" and "Um, not rock, really." First among the latter, ironically, is a duet between the lead singers of the hard rock bands Loverboy and Heart. We covered this Footloose cheese ballad last time, and I have nothing to add. Back from October is Jermaine Jackson's sex jam that's more of a blasting cap than a load of TNT. And Billy Joel had his fifth hit from the An Innocent Man LP with this harmonica-laden homage to midtempo R&B ballads of the fifties and sixties. He sings okay, and his heart's in the right place, but this is a little bland to my taste.
We finish with the rock. Night Ranger are back from last October with a rocker on which drummer Kelly Keagy sings about wondering if an old flame still misses him and the times they had sex in the back of a Chevy. I don't know if he ever found the answer, and I don't want to speculate. Also back from that chart is Prince, who advises one and all to "look for the purple banana before they put us in the truck." I wiil, Prince! I will! The Cars make three October returnees with their ballad of concern for a friend's travel arrangements. They slowed things down, but maintained what made them who they were. Always a noteworthy accomplishment. And The Go-Gos had their final Top 40 hit with this power-popper about wanting a lover to make himself emotionally available. This frequently jockeys for top spot on my Go-Gos favorites list with "Head Over Heels." Just when I think the latter has permanently taken #1, I hear this again, and my inner debate begins anew.
30 - "All of You," Julio Iglesias and Diana Ross
29 - "Alibis," Sergio Mendes
28 - "Self Control," Laura Branigan
27 - "The Glamorous Life," Sheila E.
26 - "I'm Free (Heaven Helps the Man)," Kenny Loggins
25 - "The Warrior," Scandal featuring Patty Smyth
24 - "Sexy Girl," Glenn Frey
23 - "Lights Out," Peter Wolf
22 - "Rock Me Tonite," Billy Squier
21 - "She's Mine," Steve Perry
This group contains quite a bit of the soft stuff. After picking up his first English hit in America with help from Willie Nelson, Julio Iglesias followed it up with another duet, this one with Diana Ross. The blend of the two voices on this romantic ballad is less jarring then the one on "To All the Girls I've Loved Before," but that strangeness was part of its charm. This is just another love song, and it's been justly forgotten. Brazil's Sergio Mendes had his last American hit with this MOR pop song on which singer Joe Pizzulo suspects his lover of cheating. It's much better than "Never Gonna Let You Go," but I hate that song, so that doesn't say a lot. Ex-Eagle Glenn Frey is here with a bland midtempo number about lusting after an unattainable neighbor. More evidence to throw on my "Why Glenn Frey sucks on his own" pile. And Steve Perry followed up "Oh Sherrie," with this midtempo ballad on which he threatens other men who might even be remotely interested in his girlfriend. Possessiveness...sooooo sexy.
The other songs I'm dividing into "Sung by Women" and "Sung by...um, what do you call them...oh yeah, men." Laura Branigan returns from this past May with her ominous rocker about looking for lust in all the so-wrong-it's-right places. Her best moment. And the other two in this category are back from last October. First it's Sheila E. with her funky ode to falling in love when that's not your objective. I wonder if there really is a "55 Secret Street" somewhere in the world. And if you had sex there, would you be arrested? And then it's Patty Smyth and her band with her totally-80s classic about love as struggle between hunter and prey. I wonder what she'd have said then if you'd told her that thirteen years after this, she'd marry John McEnroe. Perhaps something along the lines of "You can't be serious! You can NOT be SERIOUS!"
We finish off the first half with the singing dudes. Kenny Loggins is here with his other contribution to the Footloose soundtrack. It's a mild rocker about staying where he is to fight for love. A much smaller hit than the title tune, and deservedly so. The man born Peter Blankfield had his first and biggest hit after leaving The J. Geils Band with this funky rock ode to "dancing in the dark to the radio of love." Interesting metaphor. What could it possibly mean? Don't matter, fun song. And rocker Billy Squier had what would be his biggest pop hit with this energetic and catchy number about going out into the evening to find adventure and such. However, the song's video, which featured Squier dancing around his bedroom in a pink tank top, is cited by most observers (and Billy himself) as being responsible for the steep decline in his career. Me, I didn't think it was that bad, but I see the point. There was a certain element of the "rock" audience back then who didn't want to see someone they regarded as a meat-and-potatoes guitar slinger move like that. Sad, but true.
Tomorrow (all dates approximate. Card subject to change.): rodent rock; a song that isn't about hats, canals, or Manuel Noriega; and a vocal duel between two of the biggest music stars ever.
Monday, August 6, 2012
August 4, 1985
This week, we go back to the summer I started high school. And on the day this countdown first aired, future American Idol runner-up Crystal Bowersox was born. And that's actually relevant to this chart, in a way that you'll find out if you keep reading.
Yes, it's another week with few noobs, so once again here's 40-11, new stuff in bold.
40 - "I Wonder if I Take You Home," Lisa Lisa and Cult Jam with Full Force
39 - "Smokin' in the Boys' Room," Motley Crue
38 - "Not Enough Love in the World," Don Henley
37 - "Freedom," Wham!
36 - "Pop Life," Prince and the Revolution
35 - "Life in One Day," Howard Jones
34 - "Dare Me," The Pointer Sisters
33 - "Find a Way," Amy Grant
32 - "Mystery Lady," Billy Ocean
31 - "Cherish," Kool and the Gang
30 - "Invincible," Pat Benatar
29 - "Don't Lose My Number," Phil Collins
28 - "Would I Lie to You," Eurythmics
27 - "State of the Heart," Rick Springfield
26 - "You're Only Human (Second Wind)," Billy Joel
25 - "Just as I Am," Air Supply
24 - "The Search is Over," Survivor
23 - "Voices Carry," 'Til Tuesday
22 - "Sussudio," Phil Collins
21 - "Rock Me Tonight (For Old Times' Sake)," Freddie Jackson
20 - "We Don't Need Another Hero (Thunderdome)," Tina Turner
19 - "19," Paul Hardcastle
18 - "St. Elmo's Fire (Man in Motion)," John Parr
17 - "What About Love," Heart
16 - "You Spin Me Round (Like a Record)," Dead or Alive
15 - "Summer of '69," Bryan Adams
14 - "Raspberry Beret," Prince
13 - "People are People," Depeche Mode
12 - "Freeway of Love," Aretha Franklin
11 - "A View to a Kill," Duran Duran
Six new tracks. Well, better than last week.
First we have Don Henley with an R&Bish number about a failing relationship. Not one of his bigger hits, but a nice little tune, well performed. Can't say much more than that.
Georgia-born, Nashville-raised Amy Grant had become one of the biggest stars in Christian music, and was now making a bid for mainstream crossover success with this peppy, synth-heavy tune about the redeeming power of love. The only overtly religious lyrics are in the bridge, but they're not distractingly out of place. A mildly catchy song, and as I've said before, I enjoy Amy's voice much more than most of the songs she sings. There's just a warmth to it.
Next is one of Rick Springfield's last hits, a bland little midtempo ballad. Nothing interesting or exciting about it at all. He was winding down.
Then it's the first hit by soul singer Freddie Jackson, a song about wanting to "get together" with a former flame. "I really miss the way you squeeze and moan," he croons. Above-average loverman material.
British musician and producer Paul Hardcastle had his only American pop hit with this odd track that plays clips from a documentary about the Vietnam war over stuttery synth/dance beats and instrumentation. "In World War II, the average age of the combat soldier was 26," a narrator intones. "In Vietnam, it was 19." Later, we are told of the after effects suffered by those soldiers, and it is concluded that "Eight to ten years after coming home, almost eight hundred thousand men are still fighting the Vietnam War." It's strangely haunting, but also kind of disconcerting to think that people actually danced to this in clubs. And perhaps even more strangely, it was the profits from this song that helped launch the career of Hardcastle's manager Simon Fuller, who would name his company 19 Productions and give the world the Spice Girls and American Idol. All in all, a very unusual pop singer, and therefore the clear winner of this week's Uneasy Rider.
Rounding out the new meat are England's Depeche Mode with their first U.S. hit, a catchy plea for peace, love and understanding. Not lyrically groundbreaking, but undeniably earwormy. Their next single would be about BDSM sex. Not surprisingly, it didn't do as well in America. But they would be back.
I like a good Top Ten early in the morning.
10 - "Who's Holding Donna Now," DeBarge
I don't know, but I have a question of my own: Did El DeBarge ever find it funny that his name meant "The DeBarge" in Spanish. Because I do.
9 - "Bang a Gong (Get it On)," The Power Station
This combo of two Duranies, the drummer from Chic, and Robert Palmer had their second and last U.S. Top Ten with this beat-heavy cover of a T. Rex classic. While I've grown to like the original better, this version still has charms of his own. Robert Palmer's vocals are grimy in a more sophisticated way than Marc Bolan's.
8 - "Sentimental Street," Night Ranger
"Sister Christian"'s plain younger sister. It doesn't even come close to "motorin'."
7 - "The Power of Love," Huey Lewis and the News
Don't you just love how in Back to the Future, Marty and his band start playing this song for a teacher played by none other than Huey Lewis himself, and Huey absolutely hates it? Well, don't you? Irony, people!
6 - "Never Surrender," Corey Hart
I never did, Corey. This song has always sucked to me.
5 - "Glory Days," Bruce Springsteen
According to this song, any meeting involving Bruce and an old friend from high school involves "a few drinks." I would hope he at least buys one round on these occasions.
4 - "You Give Good Love," Whitney Houston
And Whitney gave good voice. That's all I have to say.
3 - "If You Love Somebody Set Them Free," Sting
The anti-"Every Breath You Take." And better advice than the comedy-punks in The Dead Milkmen offered five years later on their song "If You Love Somebody, Set Them on Fire."
2 - "Everytime You Go Away," Paul Young
It was a big hit. It's okay.
And topping the charts 26 years ago was...
1 - "Shout," Tears for Fears
"These are the things I can do without," Roland Orzabal sings. You know what I could have done without? A cover version by that band Disturbed. Man, I hate that guy's voice. And they should have left "Land of Confusion" alone too.
This week's NotCaseys were "Back in Time" by Huey Lewis and the News, "Cry" by Godley and Creme, "Take On Me," by A-ha, and "I Got You Babe" by UB40 and Chrissie Hynde. And there were two LDDs. In the first, a teenage girl dedicated Limahl's "The Neverending Story" to the older brother she looks up to. And later, an Air Force sergeant stationed overseas dedicated Journey's "Faithfully" to his wife. That seemed to happen a lot.
Tomorrow, or soon: I've neglected the 70s for the last couple weeks, so I'm going to a do a brief wrap-up of the uncovered tunes from those charts. Should be fun.
Yes, it's another week with few noobs, so once again here's 40-11, new stuff in bold.
40 - "I Wonder if I Take You Home," Lisa Lisa and Cult Jam with Full Force
39 - "Smokin' in the Boys' Room," Motley Crue
38 - "Not Enough Love in the World," Don Henley
37 - "Freedom," Wham!
36 - "Pop Life," Prince and the Revolution
35 - "Life in One Day," Howard Jones
34 - "Dare Me," The Pointer Sisters
33 - "Find a Way," Amy Grant
32 - "Mystery Lady," Billy Ocean
31 - "Cherish," Kool and the Gang
30 - "Invincible," Pat Benatar
29 - "Don't Lose My Number," Phil Collins
28 - "Would I Lie to You," Eurythmics
27 - "State of the Heart," Rick Springfield
26 - "You're Only Human (Second Wind)," Billy Joel
25 - "Just as I Am," Air Supply
24 - "The Search is Over," Survivor
23 - "Voices Carry," 'Til Tuesday
22 - "Sussudio," Phil Collins
21 - "Rock Me Tonight (For Old Times' Sake)," Freddie Jackson
20 - "We Don't Need Another Hero (Thunderdome)," Tina Turner
19 - "19," Paul Hardcastle
18 - "St. Elmo's Fire (Man in Motion)," John Parr
17 - "What About Love," Heart
16 - "You Spin Me Round (Like a Record)," Dead or Alive
15 - "Summer of '69," Bryan Adams
14 - "Raspberry Beret," Prince
13 - "People are People," Depeche Mode
12 - "Freeway of Love," Aretha Franklin
11 - "A View to a Kill," Duran Duran
Six new tracks. Well, better than last week.
First we have Don Henley with an R&Bish number about a failing relationship. Not one of his bigger hits, but a nice little tune, well performed. Can't say much more than that.
Georgia-born, Nashville-raised Amy Grant had become one of the biggest stars in Christian music, and was now making a bid for mainstream crossover success with this peppy, synth-heavy tune about the redeeming power of love. The only overtly religious lyrics are in the bridge, but they're not distractingly out of place. A mildly catchy song, and as I've said before, I enjoy Amy's voice much more than most of the songs she sings. There's just a warmth to it.
Next is one of Rick Springfield's last hits, a bland little midtempo ballad. Nothing interesting or exciting about it at all. He was winding down.
Then it's the first hit by soul singer Freddie Jackson, a song about wanting to "get together" with a former flame. "I really miss the way you squeeze and moan," he croons. Above-average loverman material.
British musician and producer Paul Hardcastle had his only American pop hit with this odd track that plays clips from a documentary about the Vietnam war over stuttery synth/dance beats and instrumentation. "In World War II, the average age of the combat soldier was 26," a narrator intones. "In Vietnam, it was 19." Later, we are told of the after effects suffered by those soldiers, and it is concluded that "Eight to ten years after coming home, almost eight hundred thousand men are still fighting the Vietnam War." It's strangely haunting, but also kind of disconcerting to think that people actually danced to this in clubs. And perhaps even more strangely, it was the profits from this song that helped launch the career of Hardcastle's manager Simon Fuller, who would name his company 19 Productions and give the world the Spice Girls and American Idol. All in all, a very unusual pop singer, and therefore the clear winner of this week's Uneasy Rider.
Rounding out the new meat are England's Depeche Mode with their first U.S. hit, a catchy plea for peace, love and understanding. Not lyrically groundbreaking, but undeniably earwormy. Their next single would be about BDSM sex. Not surprisingly, it didn't do as well in America. But they would be back.
I like a good Top Ten early in the morning.
10 - "Who's Holding Donna Now," DeBarge
I don't know, but I have a question of my own: Did El DeBarge ever find it funny that his name meant "The DeBarge" in Spanish. Because I do.
9 - "Bang a Gong (Get it On)," The Power Station
This combo of two Duranies, the drummer from Chic, and Robert Palmer had their second and last U.S. Top Ten with this beat-heavy cover of a T. Rex classic. While I've grown to like the original better, this version still has charms of his own. Robert Palmer's vocals are grimy in a more sophisticated way than Marc Bolan's.
8 - "Sentimental Street," Night Ranger
"Sister Christian"'s plain younger sister. It doesn't even come close to "motorin'."
7 - "The Power of Love," Huey Lewis and the News
Don't you just love how in Back to the Future, Marty and his band start playing this song for a teacher played by none other than Huey Lewis himself, and Huey absolutely hates it? Well, don't you? Irony, people!
6 - "Never Surrender," Corey Hart
I never did, Corey. This song has always sucked to me.
5 - "Glory Days," Bruce Springsteen
According to this song, any meeting involving Bruce and an old friend from high school involves "a few drinks." I would hope he at least buys one round on these occasions.
4 - "You Give Good Love," Whitney Houston
And Whitney gave good voice. That's all I have to say.
3 - "If You Love Somebody Set Them Free," Sting
The anti-"Every Breath You Take." And better advice than the comedy-punks in The Dead Milkmen offered five years later on their song "If You Love Somebody, Set Them on Fire."
2 - "Everytime You Go Away," Paul Young
It was a big hit. It's okay.
And topping the charts 26 years ago was...
1 - "Shout," Tears for Fears
"These are the things I can do without," Roland Orzabal sings. You know what I could have done without? A cover version by that band Disturbed. Man, I hate that guy's voice. And they should have left "Land of Confusion" alone too.
This week's NotCaseys were "Back in Time" by Huey Lewis and the News, "Cry" by Godley and Creme, "Take On Me," by A-ha, and "I Got You Babe" by UB40 and Chrissie Hynde. And there were two LDDs. In the first, a teenage girl dedicated Limahl's "The Neverending Story" to the older brother she looks up to. And later, an Air Force sergeant stationed overseas dedicated Journey's "Faithfully" to his wife. That seemed to happen a lot.
Tomorrow, or soon: I've neglected the 70s for the last couple weeks, so I'm going to a do a brief wrap-up of the uncovered tunes from those charts. Should be fun.
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