This one goes goes back 51 years to cover hits by Fludd. Anne Murray and Glen Campbell, Coven, Santana, Benny Hill, Ten Years After and more. YouTube playlist is here, Patreon link is here, and Linktree is here. This episode had unfolded as it should.
Thursday, December 29, 2022
Saturday, December 10, 2022
The OMYAM Podcast Episode #119: November 8, 1997
Episode #119
This time Roger goes back 25 years to look at hits from a late 90s late autumn. Songs covered include tracks by Robyn, Great Big Sea, Fiona Apple, Paula Cole, the Bee Gees, Usher, Smash Mouth and more. YouTube playlist is here, Linktree is here, and Patreon page is here. This is one shining star of an episode.
Monday, November 14, 2022
The OMYAM Podcast Episode #118: October 19, 1985
Episode #118
This episode covers the charts from the month Arnie lied about the order in which he would kill people. Roger talks about hits by Matt Bianco, Mr. Mister, Paul Young, The Cure, The Cult, Billy Crystal, Corey Hart and more. YouTube playlist is here, Patreon is here, and Linktree is here. This is an episode to cherish.
Friday, October 28, 2022
The OMYAM Podcast Episode #117: The 3rd Annual OMYAM Halloween Special featuring TOTIRO #13 - Alice Cooper: The Nightmare
Episode #117
Roger celebrates Halloween with Alice Cooper, Vincent Price, and a cast of creatures direct from the blackness of your mind. YouTube playlist is here, Linktree is here, and the chance to join my Patreon and hear a bonus episode about Alice on The Muppet Show is here. Sweat, laugh and scream along with this special episode.
Sunday, October 23, 2022
The OMYAM Podcast Episode #116: October 2, 1976
This time Roger goes back to the fall of America's Bicentennial year. Songs covered this week include hits by Trooper, Can, Lou Rawls, Gordon Lightfoot, the Steve Miller Band, Zamfir, Rick Dees and more. YouTube playlist is here, Patreon page is here, and the Linktree for all the place you can find me is here. The legend of this episode will live on.
Tuesday, October 18, 2022
The OMYAM Podcast Episode #115: Tales From the Bargain Bin #11 - Flash Fearless vs. The Zorg Women, Parts 5 & 6
Episode #115
This episode looks at a record that tried to apply the same rock n'roll irreverence to superheroes that Rocky Horror did to scary movies. Alice Cooper, John Entwistle, Keith Moon and other big names in 70s rock were on board this ship, but somehow, it crashed and burned commercially. Listen to it all on YouTube here, support the show if you'd like on Patreon here, and find all my social media links here. No space pirates were harmed in the making of this episode.
Saturday, October 8, 2022
The OMYAM Podcast Episode #114: September 17, 1994
This episode takes us back 28 years to when Phoebe Buffay and Andy Dufresne made their screen debuts. Roger discusses hits by Candlebox, Toni Braxton, The Watchmen, Blur, Coolio, Soundgarden, Youssou N’Dour and more. The YouTube playlist is here, and the Patreon page is here. This episode will take you on a fantastic voyage.
Saturday, October 1, 2022
The Old Man's Ultimate Nineties Tournament of Uneasy Rider Songs (OMUNTURS): Round One: Part 1
THE WOULD I LIE TO YOU? UMMM, YES BOWL
"Just a Friend," Biz Markie, 1990
vs. "Things That Make You Go Hmmm...," C+C Music Factory, 1991
FINAL SCORE: Hmmm 27, Friend 21. The two teams kept close eyes on each other out of suspicion. Biz's side was more successful with their tricks for most of the game and appeared on their way to a comfortable win, but an interception by the Factory squad early in the fourth quarter seemed to demoralize the Friendly bunch, leading to a collapse and a C+C comeback victory. Truly it was a thing that made you go h...ow did that happen?
THE LET'S DO SOMEONE DIFFERENT BOWL
"O.P.P.," Naughty by Nature, 1991
vs. "Splackavellie," Pressha, 1998
FINAL SCORE: O.P.P. 37, Splackavellie 27. A matchup between two teams known for not respecting the rules had a lot of penalties, but also quite a bit of scoring. In the end, the Naughty side overcame Pressha's pressure thanks to a united front that saw every last homie and lady in the squad commit to their hard-hitting strategy.
THE MY SADDLE'S WAITING IN A BURGER KING BATHROOM BOWL
"The Humpty Dance," Digital Underground, 1990
vs. "Pony," Ginuwine, 1996
FINAL SCORE: Humpty 69, Pony 21. The crew from the Underground put on an impressive performance in their tournament debut, with their unorthodox "Looptid" offense putting on a show that forced Ginuwine's team to ride off into the sunset. Could lumpy oatmeal turn out to be the new breakfast of champions?
THE I LIKE THE WAY YOU WORK THOSE X'S AND O'S BOWL
"Tic-Tac-Toe," Kyper, 1990
vs. "No Diggity," Blackstreet, 1996
FINAL SCORE; Tic 38, Diggity 20. Both teams had talent and drive, but in the end, superior coaching won the day. No one in this tournament is better at X's and O's than Coach Kyper. The Blackstreet boys were left to bag up their equipment and go home. But they played enough to retain their diggity...er, dignity.
THE SWEET BUT DEADLY BOWL
"Unskinny Bop," Poison, 1990
vs. "Cherry Pie," Warrant, 1990
FINAL SCORE: Pie 34, Bop 23. These teams were ready to play from the beginning. The Unskinny players were visibly jumpy, and the Cherry boys came out swinging. In the end, Warrant won by playing hard all over the field and pulling off some sweet surprise plays, while also making sure to keep hydrated with frequent cool drinks of water. In his postgame interview, losing coach Bret Michaels had the following comment: "We just love to play. Nothing more to say."
THE MEMORABLE ONE-NIGHT STANDS BOWL
"All I Wanna Do is Make Love to You," Heart, 1990
vs. "Get a Leg Up," John Mellencamp, 1991
FINAL SCORE: Love 45, Leg 7. Even before the game, the final result seemed like a foregone conclusion. You could tell that no matter who the Heart team faced on this night, they were determined to take what they wanted from them and get the result they needed. And Mellencamp's men seemed willing to go along for the ride and get out. Will this win turn out to be just a one-time thing for the Love Makers, or is it a seed that will grow and grow until they deliver their fans a bundle of championship joy?
THE THESE GALS ARE GAME BOWL
"Hanky Panky," Madonna, 1990
vs. "Freak Like Me," Adina Howard, 1995
FINAL SCORE: Hanky 55, Freak 10. Both teams came ready for action, but the Madonna brigade's willingness to absorb punishment was astonishing to watch. Football fans are used to players patting each other on the butt after a great play, but the Hanky players took that to a new level. Despite the lopsided loss, losing coach Howard said her team would be more than willing to have a rematch anywhere at any time.
THE WHAT'S THE SAFE WORD BOWL
"Sadeness Part 1," Enigma, 1991
vs. "Erotica," Madonna, 1992
FINAL SCORE: Sadeness 42, Erotica 24. Madonna brought another team that was eager to get into the rough stuff to this matchup, but their opponents this time featured a coaching staff that practically invented that anything-goes style of play. And Enigma lived up to their name with their inscrutable play calling. But the post game press conference was a bit of a farce, because all of the Sadeness representatives gave their answers in Latin. At least some of the reporters understood what Vini, Vidi, Vici meant.
THE YOU'RE PUSHING IT WITH THE MIXED MESSAGES, LADIES BOWL
"Let's Talk About Sex," Salt-N-Pepa, 1991
vs. "None of Your Business," Salt-N-Pepa, 1994
FINAL SCORE: Sex 28, Business 24. The conflict between these teams began even before the game started. The Talk side wanted to play in a large stadium and let people in for free, while the Business people preferred to play in a remote location with no spectators. The game ended up being played in a smaller stadium, and tickets were quite expensive. When it was over, it was the Talkers more open approach that prevailed. The losing team immediately left the field with unknown companions and departed for an undisclosed location.
THE EXPLANATION FOR COPULATION BOWL
"Justify My Love," Madonna, 1991
vs. "People are Still Having Sex," LaTour, 1991
FINAL SCORE: People 45, Justify 17. It was pretty well known that the Justify team had been wanting, needing, and waiting for this game for quite a while. But they ran into a juggernaut in LaTour and his people, who were just relentless in penetrating the defense and scoring every chance they got. Injuries, penalties, a hostile crowd, nothing could keep them from getting what they came for. They have become a fashionable pick to win this tournament, and at least so far, they look like they'll be pretty hard to stop.
THE SIZE MATTERS ON BOTH SIDES BOWL
"Gett Off," Prince, 1991
vs. "Short Short Man," 20 Fingers featuring Gillette, 1994
FINAL SCORE: Short 41, Gett 19. Prince's teams are known for many things; flashy uniforms, unpredictable play calling, and willingness to get down and dirty among them. But another thing they frequently are is, shall we say, undersized. Often their opponents are too overwhelmed by the razzle-dazzle to take advantage of this, But 20 Fingers exploited this weakness from the get go, pushing them around and compounding the physical abuse with unrelenting trash talk. After the convincing victory, winning quarterback Gillette was heard taunting the losers. "Gett Off? More like Gett Off the field, little guy! You can't play with the big boys!"
THE STEVE'S GOTTA HAVE IT BOWL
"Falling in Love (Is Hard on the Knees)," Aerosmith, 1997
vs. "Pink," Aerosmith, 1998
FINAL SCORE: Pink 17, Knees 10. Both teams seemed more interested in other things than the game for much of it, but the Pink team prevailed due to superior conditioning; specifically, by taking better care of their joints. The winning team was asked why they chose pink as their uniform color, to which a spokesman responded. "It's for a cause. We're supporting breast awareness." When the reporter said "You mean breast cancer awareness?" he replied "Yeah, that too."
THE CAN'T STOP MESSING WITH THE DANGER ZONE BOWL
"I Touch Myself," Divinyls, 1991
vs. "Touch Myself," T-Boz, 1996
FINAL SCORE: I Touch 31, Touch 13. Both sides seemed to be groups of individuals, more interested in making themselves feel good than being part of a team. But the Divinyls overall handled themselves better, and in the end achieved a more satisfying result.
THE YOU KISS YOUR MOTHER WITH THAT? BOWL
"You Oughta Know," Alanis Morissette, 1996
vs. "Mouth," Merril Bainbridge, 1997
FINAL SCORE: Know 48, Mouth 3. Alanis' team came out full of rage over being abandoned by their most loyal fans, who decided to support a different team. They channelled that anger into a thorough beating of Bainbridge's happy go lucky squad. And even after the game, the Oughtas followed the Mouth team to a restaurant where they were having dinner just to remind them of the mess they made of their title hopes.
THE KICK ASS BOWL
"Knockin' Boots," Candyman, 1990
vs. "Dunkie Butt," 12 Gauge, 1994
FINAL SCORE: Butt 42, Boots 13. 12 Gauge, naturally, employed the shotgun frequently on offence. And the Candyman players seemed more eager to watch their opponents running away from them than tackling them. The Dunkies ride on to the next round.
THE HATE TO SEE YOU GO BUT LOVE TO WATCH YOU WALK AWAY BOWL
"Baby Got Back," Sir Mix-A-Lot, 1992
vs. "Rump Shaker," Wreckz-N-Effect, 1992
FINAL SCORE: Back 44, Rump 24. Almost every play in this game featured the backfield in motion. It was close at halftime, but in the second half Mix-a-Lot's crew started to pull away like a turbocharged Corvette. In the end, the Shakers hit it and quit it, while the Back boys get to stay and play.
Friday, September 30, 2022
The OMYAM Podcast Episode #113: The Old Man's Ultimate 90s Tournament of Uneasy Rider Songs - Round 1 Part 1
The tournament begins. The songs in this bracket ask the immortal question from This is Spinal Tap: "What’s wrong with being sexy?" Madonna, Prince and Aerosmith shock no one by being here, battling with songs by Ginuwine, C+C Music Factory, Naughty by Nature, Enigma, Candyman, Divinyls, Wreckx-N-Effect and more. Scope out the contenders on YouTube here. And your chance to support the show and get more from me on Patreon is here. This episode will put a smile on your face ten miles wide.
Sunday, September 25, 2022
The OMYAM Podcast Episode 112: September 3, 1983
Episode #112
This one goes back 39 years to when Vanessa Williams won Miss America. Songs covered include hits by The Little River Band, Kraftwerk, Frank Stallone, Stevie Nicks, Irene Cara, Sergio Mendes and more. The YouTube playlist is here, and the Patreon page to support the show and get bonus Microdose content is here. On this episode, I'm podcasting like I've never podcasted before.
Saturday, September 10, 2022
The OMYAM Podcast Episode #111: August 18, 1973
This episode looks back at the charts from 49 years ago, covering hits by Blue Mink, Grand Funk Railroad, Three Dog Night, David Bowie, Charlie Rich, The Goons and more. The YouTube playlist is here, and the Patreon page where you can support the show and get bonus content is here. This is an episode you can take home to meet your mama and papa.
Friday, September 2, 2022
The OMYAM Podcast Episode #110: August 4, 1990
This time Roger goes back 32 years to talk about hits by The Lightning Seeds, Luciano Pavarotti, Motley Crue, Bell Biv DeVoe, Dream Warriors, The Jeff Healey Band, The Soup Dragons and more. The YouTube playlist is here, and the link to support the show on Patreon is here. I give you a license to listen to this episode.
Thursday, August 18, 2022
The OMYAM Podcast Episode #109: July 18, 1987
Episode #109
Roger flashes back 35 years ago to look back at the month the world was introduced to cinematic classics like Superman IV and Jaws: The Revenge. He talks about hits by The Christians. Suzanne Vega, John Farnham, Shakin' Stevens, The Nylons, U2, Lisa Lisa and Cult Jam and more. YouTube playlist is here, and you can support the show and get bonus material here. Boom, boom, boom, listen to this episode in your room. Or your car, at work, wherever.
Sunday, August 7, 2022
Wednesday, July 27, 2022
The OMYAM Podcast Episode #107: Turn On, Tune In, Rock Out #12 - The Special London Bridge Special Starring Tom Jones
Episode #107
Roger heads back to YouTube to watch a show featuring Tom Jones traveling by underwater bus to see a bridge in Arizona, flirt with a movie star, see a Carpenters concert and a celebrity tennis match, get robbed by Elliot Gould, and dance with Kirk Douglas. There are horses, Native American stereotypes, and weird sexual innuendo. The show and related clips are here, and you can support the show and hear about more Tom Jones TV action here. This episode's got style, it's got grace, it's a winner.
Thursday, July 21, 2022
The OMYAM Podcast Episode #106: June 19, 1993
This time we complete our second cycle through the years with a look at the charts of 29 years ago. Roger talks about songs by 13 Engines, 4 Non Blondes, Midnight Oil, Dr. Dre, Ace of Base. PM Dawn and more. There's a complementary YouTube playlist here, and your chance to support the show on Patreon is here. All that I want is for you to listen to this episode.
Monday, June 27, 2022
The OMYAM Podcast Episode #105: June 2, 1984
Thursday, June 23, 2022
The OMYAM Podcast Episode #104: Busted Bubbles of 1978
This one looks at songs that couldn't quite make the Hot 100 of 44 years ago. The misses include singles by Emmylou Harris, Aretha Franklin, the Dixie Dregs, Barbara Mandrell and more. YouTube link is here, and the Patreon link if you're feeling generous is here. Spread out on your big bed and let this episode keep you company.
Monday, June 13, 2022
The OMYAM Podcast Episode #103: May 20, 1972
This time Roger goes back a whole half-century to talk about hits by Frank Mills, Tom Jones, Commander Cody and His Lost Planet Airmen, Dr. Hook and The Medicine Show, The Staple Singers, Paul Simon and more. The YouTube playlist is here, and the Patreon link is here. Enjoy the first time ever you hear this episode.
Wednesday, June 1, 2022
The OMYAM Podcast Episode #102: May 8, 1999
A look at the hits of 23 years ago, discussing songs by Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers, Maxwell, Faithless, The Tragically Hip, Backstreet Boys, Sugar Ray, Stereophonics and more. The YouTube playlist is here, and the place to support the show on Patreon is here. You don't have to listen to this episode every morning. Once is enough.
Sunday, May 22, 2022
The OMYAM Podcast Episode #101: April 23, 1988
Monday, May 9, 2022
The OMUTURE: The Final
Listen to the episode while reading: https://bobbyglovescasey.blogspot.com/2022/04/the-omyam-podcast-episode-100-omuture.html
"The Curly Shuffle," Jump N The Saddle, 1984
vs. "19," Paul Hardcastle, 1985
THE STATS
The Curly Shuffle:
Label: Atlantic
Debuted on Hot 100: December 3, 1983
Peak Position: #15 (January 21, 1984)
Tournament History
ROUND 1: Defeated "Twilight Tone" by The Manhattan Transfer 44-3 (The Black and White Reruns Bowl)
ROUND 2: Defeated "I Wanna Be a Cowboy" by Boys Don't Cry 47-7 (The Moe Howard and John Wayne Memorial Bowl)
ROUND 3: Defeated "The Clapping Song" by Pia Zadora 49-17 (The Why Slap One Hand When You Have Two Faces In Front of You Bowl)
ROUND 4: Defeated "Walk the Dinosaur" by Was (Not Was) 45-16 (The Have We Really Evolved That Much Since Caveman Times Bowl)
ROUND 5: Defeated "Rock Me Amadeus" by Falco 31-14 (The Give Me That Magic Flute, Numbskull Bowl)
QUARTERFINAL: Defeated "General Hospi-Tale" by The Afternoon Delights 31-21(The Inflicting and Repairing Injuries Bowl)
SEMIFINAL: Defeated "Pac-Man Fever" by Buckner and Garcia 33-31 (The Wakka Wakka Wakka vs. Nyuk Nyuk Nyuk Bowl)
Average Points per Game: 40
Average Margin of Victory: 24.4
19:
Label: Chrysalis
Hot 100 Debut: June 1, 1985
Peak Position: #15 (July 20, 1985)
Tournament History
ROUND 1; Defeated "Born in the USA" by Bruce Springsteen 45-19 (The Let Me Tell You Some More About Nam Bowl)
ROUND 2: Defeated "Still in Saigon" by The Charlie Daniels Band 42- 16 (The 1 2 3 What are We Fighting For Bowl)
ROUND 3: Defeated "Another Brick in the Wall Part 2" by Pink Floyd 44-10 (The If Those Kids Don’t Need Education, Send Them Off to War Bowl)
ROUND 4; Defeated "We Didn't Start the Fire" by Billy Joel 28-14 (The What Happened After Diem Bien Phu Fell Bowl)
ROUND 5: Defeated "One" by Metallica 35-27 (The Outnumbered But Not Outstunned Bowl)
QUARTERFINAL: Defeated: "Turning Japanese" by The Vapors 37-10 (The Make Love Not War Bowl)
SEMIFINAL: Defeated "Don’t Worry Be Happy" by Bobby McFerrin 28-24 (The Sure, You're a Teenager Getting Shot At in a Jungle Thousands of Miles from Home, But Look on the Bright Side Bowl)
Average Points per Game: 37
Average Margin of Victory: 19.9
First Quarter:
The 19s get off to a fast start by returning the opening kickoff for a touchdown, negotiating through a disorganized Shuffle coverage unit. The Curlys struggled on their first possession, but penalties put them in position to kick a field goal that went off the goalpost and through. Hardcastle's troops marched down the field to reach the end zone again, and their opponents responded with an aggressive TD drive of their own.
Score after One Quarter: Nineteen 14, Curly 10.
And now let's go to the sidelines to Dickie Goodman with Curly Shuffle player-coach Moe Howard:
Hey Moe, what do you think of your team's performance so far?
"We were runnin' against the wind."
I'm not sure how that could be, since this game is being played in a dome, but okay. How do you plan to approach the second quarter?
"It'll be just like starting over."
An interesting way of looking at it to be sure. Some people have said that the way you coach your team is bordering on abusive. Have you ever considered taking a gentler tone?
"I can't go for that, no, no, no can do."
I suppose if it ain't broke, don't fix it. You've said you plan to take your players on a Hawaiian vacation if they win. Where will they go if they lose?
"Back on the chain gang"
I should have expected as much. Any final words of encouragement for your team before they return to the field?
"Let's go crazy, let's get nuts, let's look for the purple banana before they put us in the truck."
Thank you. I'm guessing that last part is some sort of code for a play they're going to run. Now let's get back to the action.
Second Quarter:
The offenses continued to reign supreme. The Nineteen squad shocked and awed the Curly defense with a brutal ground attack peppered with aerial fireworks. And on the other side, the Shufflers, although they frequently looked like they were battling each other as much as their opponents, still managed to push forward and remain within pie-throwing distance of the lead. As the gun sounded, the game remained very much up for grabs.
Halftime Score: Nineteen 28, Curly 24.
The halftime show features performances by two acts who might have gone far in this tournament but did not qualify: The Weather Girls ("It's Raining Men," #46, 1983) and The Chicago Bears Shufflin' Crew ("The Super Bowl Shuffle," #41, 1986). We thank them for being such good sports. Now let's have some halftime analysis from Benny Bell.
"The 19 team are battle-hardened
And the Stooges sure know how to hit,
But I think Paul's boys have the advantage
'Cause they're used to being in the...shaving cream,
Be nice and clean,
Shave every day and you'll always look keen."
Thanks for that, Benny. And now, we're ready for more action.
Third Quarter:
This was a harder-hitting and tighter quarter as the teams seemed to realize how close they were to history. The Nineteen quarter showed his inexperience by throwing an interception that the Curlys ran back for a TD, giving them their first lead of the game. But this seemed to strengthen the Hardcastle men's resolve to win at all costs, and they mercilessly marched down the field and into the end zone to regain the lead just before the quarter ended.
Score after the Third Quarter: Nineteen 35, Curly 31.
Before we start the fourth, let's go back to Dickie Goodman, who is now with one of they young members of the Nineteen squad.
Young man, what is your team's motivation for winning this tournament?
"Everybody wants to rule the world."
Can you describe what it's like out there on the field in one word?
"Nasty!"
What do you think your team's chances of winning are?
"Nothing's gonna stop us now."
You sound very certain about that. What is it about your team that makes you so confident?
"Devil inside, devil inside, every single one of us the devil inside."
That leads me to my last question. The way your team has played this entire tournament seems like it is bound to leave you and your teammates with deep physical and emotional scars. So even if you do win, I wonder if when you look back on what you had to do for it you'll think it was worth all the lasting effects. What do you say to that?
"Every rose has its thorn."
Well, that's one way of looking at it. Thanks Dickie. Now let's see what happens in the fourth.
Fourth Quarter:
The Nineteen squad began to take over as the period began, picking up another TD and a field goal. They remained as grimly determined as ever, while Curly and company, used to happy endings after the mayhem, seemed not to know what to do in this situation. A late touchdown gave the Stooges faint hope, but the execution of the subsequent extra point and onside kick attempts was laughable.
Final Score: Nineteen 45, Curly 37.
NINETEEN WINS THE OLD MAN'S ULTIMATE TOURNAMENT OF UNEASY RIDERS OF THE 80S!!!!!!
Congratulations to Paul Hardcastle and his determined young troops for earning ultimate victory. Hopefully this time they will receive a hero's welcome. As for Jump N The Saddle, they can ride off into the sunset knowing that they put in a great effort and provided hours of entertainment for everyone who watched them.
THANKS TO ALL WHO READ AND LISTENED!
WATCH THIS SPACE FOR THE 90S TOURNAMENT!
Friday, April 29, 2022
The OMYAM Podcast Episode 100: The OMUTURE Final and the 90s Tournament Selection Show
The podcast reaches a milestone, a champion is crowned, and the quest for another one begins.
Enjoy the show. And huge thanks for listening.
Wednesday, April 20, 2022
The OMYAM Podcast Episode #99: April 5, 1975
This episode goes back to 47 springs ago, and covers hits by Bob Dylan, Fanny, The Osmonds, Telly Savalas, Bachman-Turner Overdrive, Chicago, Labelle and more. Look up the songs and other related materials on YouTube here, and your chance to support the show on Patreon is here. This is an episode worth getting tangled up in.
Wednesday, April 13, 2022
The OMYAM Podcast Episode #98: March 16, 1996
This episode takes us back to the spring of 1996, talking about hits by Busta Rhymes, Bruce Hornsby, Babylon Zoo, LL Cool J, Smashing Pumpkins, Ashley MacIsaac, Gin Blossoms and more. Listen and watch on YouTube here, and consider supporting the show on Patreon here. Listen to this episode, to hell with the consequence.
The OMUTURE: Semifinals
THE SURE, YOU'RE A TEENAGER GETTING SHOT AT IN A JUNGLE THOUSANDS OF MILES FROM HOME, BUT LOOK ON THE BRIGHT SIDE BOWL
"19," Paul Hardcastle, 1985
vs. "Don't Worry, Be Happy," Bobby McFerrin, 1988
HOW THEY GOT HERE
19
ROUND 1; Defeated "Born in the USA" by Bruce Springsteen 45-19
ROUND 2: Defeated "Still in Saigon" by The Charlie Daniels Band 42- 16
ROUND 3: Defeated "Another Brick in the Wall Part 2" by Pink Floyd 44-10
ROUND 4; Defeated "We Didn't Start the Fire" by Billy Joel 28-14
ROUND 5: Defeated "One" by Metallica 35-27
QUARTERFINAL: Defeated: "Turning Japanese" by The Vapors 37-10
Don't Worry, Be Happy
ROUND 1: Defeated "The Longest Time" by Billy Joel 56-0
ROUND 2; Defeated "Come On Eileen" by Dexy's Midnight Runners 51-3
ROUND 3: Defeated "Orinoco Flow" by Enya 34-28
ROUND 4: Defeated "Wasn't That a Party" by The Rovers 45-3
ROUND 5: Defeated "Eat It" by Weird Al Yankovic 35-19
QUARTERFINAL: Defeated "I've Never Been to Me" by Charlene 27-21
Final Score: Nineteen 28, Happy 24. Some observers felt that this could be a slaughter, with McFerrin's team's carefree attitude causing them to be torn to pieces by the battle hardened Hardcastle battalion. But the Happy team held their own, with the ignorance of the danger presented by their opponents genuinely turning to bliss for much of the game. But this really was a game that was impossible for him to win, and even though many of his players were severely injured at the end and had to be airlifted out of the stadium, they all still left with smiles on their faces. Paul and company have proved that they're in this until the bitter end.
THE WAKKA WAKKA WAKKA VS. NYUK NYUK NYUK BOWL
"Pac-Man Fever," Buckner and Garcia, 1982
vs. "The Curly Shuffle," Jump N the Saddle, 1984
HOW THEY GOT HERE
Pac-Man Fever
ROUND 1: Defeated "Digital Display" by Ready for the World 52-10
ROUND 2: Defeated "Double Dutch Bus" by Frankie Smith 42-21
ROUND 3: Defeated "Radio Ga-Ga" by Queen 44-7
ROUND 4: Defeated "Mr. Roboto" by Styx 41-10
ROUND 5: Defeated "Valley Girl" by Frank and Moon Zappa 25-17
QUARTERFINAL; Defeated "Run for the Roses" by Dan Fogelberg 42-13
The Curly Shuffle
ROUND 1: Defeated "Twilight Tone" by The Manhattan Transfer 44-3
ROUND 2: Defeated "I Wanna Be a Cowboy" by Boys Don't Cry 47-7
ROUND 3: Defeated "The Clapping Song" by Pia Zadora 49-17
ROUND 4: Defeated "Walk the Dinosaur" by Was (Not Was) 45-16
ROUND 5: Defeated "Rock Me Amadeus" by Falco 31-14
QUARTERFINAL: Defeated "General Hospi-Tale" by The Afternoon Delights 31-21
Final Score: Curly 33, Pac-Man 31. This was one of the tournament's most exciting games, as both teams played with reckless abandon. The Stooges' physicality was devastating as usual, and the Pac-Men made many spectacular moves to evade tackles on their way to scores. The Curly crew seemed on their way to defeat with seconds to go, but they managed to get the winning touchdown on a play so disorganized it resembled slapstick comedy. But it ended with Curly himself in the end zone, and his team rewarding their winning coach not with a Gatorade bath but a pie to the face. It's Game Over for Buckner and Garcia. They have played their last quarter. The Stooges shuffle on to what will surely be a thrilling final.
The OMUTURE: Quarterfinals
THE MAKE LOVE NOT WAR BOWL
"Turning Japanese," The Vapors, 1980
vs. "19," Paul Hardcastle, 1985
HOW THEY GOT HERE
Turning Japanese
ROUND 1: Defeated "She Bop" by Cyndi Lauper 42-35
ROUND 2: Defeated "Centrefold" by The J. Geils Band 41-17
ROUND 3: Defeated "Sugar Walls" by Sheena Easton 49-6
ROUND 4: Defeated "Whip It" by Devo 42-16
ROUND 5: Defeated ""Bust a Move" by Young MC 28-10
19
ROUND 1; Defeated "Born in the USA" by Bruce Springsteen 45-19
ROUND 2: Defeated "Still in Saigon" by The Charlie Daniels Band 42- 16
ROUND 3: Defeated "Another Brick in the Wall Part 2" by Pink Floyd 44-10
ROUND 4; Defeated "We Didn't Start the Fire" by Billy Joel 28-14
ROUND 5: Defeated "One" by Metallica 35-27
Final Score: Nineteen 37, Turning 10. Hardcastle's team brought out all their heavy artillery: the shotgun, the long bomb, and relentless blitzing to vaporize their opponents' hopes. The Turning team no longer have this tournament to occupy their attention, but observers believe they'll have no trouble finding a new pastime, and when they do, we might not see them for awhile.
THE BLISSFUL IGNORANCE BOWL
"I've Never Been to Me," Charlene, 1982
vs. "Don't Worry, Be Happy," Bobby McFerrin, 1988
HOW THEY GOT HERE
I've Never Been to Me
ROUND 1: Defeated "Coming Around Again" by Carly Simon 31-14
ROUND 2; Defeated "To All the Girls I've Loved Before" by Willie Nelson and Julio Iglesias 31-17
ROUND 3; Defeated "Relax" by Frankie Goes to Hollywood 24-10
ROUND 4: Defeated "Dirty Laundry" by Don Henley 34-14
ROUND 5: Defeated "Sun City" by Artists United Against Apartheid 19-14.
Don't Worry, Be Happy
ROUND 1: Defeated "The Longest Time" by Billy Joel 56-0
ROUND 2; Defeated "Come On Eileen" by Dexy's Midnight Runners 51-3
ROUND 3: Defeated "Orinoco Flow" by Enya 34-28
ROUND 4: Defeated "Wasn't That a Party" by The Rovers 45-3
ROUND 5: Defeated "Eat It" by Weird Al Yankovic 35-19
Final Score: Happy 27, Never 21. Both teams had gotten this far by displaying a devil-may-care attitude and not thinking about anything but winning the game in front of them. But early in the second half of this game, Charlene's team appeared to start doubting themselves, wondering if the way they played the game was worth it in the long term, and perhaps even if they should have taken up a different sport. McFerrin's team took advantage of this to get the win. After the game, losing coach Charlene announce that her entire team was giving up football to find their soulmates and start families, because, "marriage and children are the most precious trophies of all."
THE INFLICTING AND REPAIRING INJURIES BOWL
"General Hospi-Tale," The Afternoon Delights, 1981
vs. "The Curly Shuffle," Jump N The Saddle, 1984
HOW THEY GOT HERE
General Hospi-Tale
ROUND 1: Defeated "The Goonies R Good Enough" by Cyndi Lauper
ROUND 2: Defeated "Bette Davis Eyes" by Kim Carnes 35-6
ROUND 3: Defeated "Burning Heart" by Survivor 38-7
ROUND 4: Defeated "Batdance" by Prince 34-28
ROUND 5: Defeated "Heartlight" by Neil Diamond 27-13
The Curly Shuffle
ROUND 1: Defeated "Twilight Tone" by The Manhattan Transfer 44-3
ROUND 2: Defeated "I Wanna Be a Cowboy" by Boys Don't Cry 47-7
ROUND 3: Defeated "The Clapping Song" by Pia Zadora 49-17
ROUND 4: Defeated "Walk the Dinosaur" by Was (Not Was) 45-16
ROUND 5: Defeated "Rock Me Amadeus" by Falco 31-14
Final Score: Curly 31, General 21. The Stooge team struggled to get its act together in the first half, making numerous mistakes and blaming each other for them. But in the second half, they became more focused and threw everything they had at the Delights, who at the same time started getting caught up in their own internal dramas, and the surgical precision they showed early in the game was replaced by suspicion and intrigue. Once again the Shuffle squad finds a way to win, but there's a surprisingly celebratory mood in the Hospi-Tale camp, because apparently two of their players are about to marry each other. And apparently an L. Taylor will be in attendance, and it's not Lawrence.
THE YOU PAY YOUR MONEY AND YOU TAKE YOUR CHANCE BOWL
"Pac-Man Fever," Buckner and Garcia, 1982
vs. "Run for the Roses," Dan Fogelberg, 1982
HOW THEY GOT HERE
Pac-Man Fever
ROUND 1: Defeated "Digital Display" by Ready for the World 52-10
ROUND 2: Defeated "Double Dutch Bus" by Frankie Smith 42-21
ROUND 3: Defeated "Radio Ga-Ga" by Queen 44-7
ROUND 4: Defeated "Mr. Roboto" by Styx 41-10
ROUND 5: Defeated "Valley Girl" by Frank and Moon Zappa 25-17
Run for the Roses
ROUND 1: Defeated "The Runner" by Manfred Mann's Earth Band 49-7
ROUND 2: Defeated "Master Blaster (Jammin') by Stevie Wonder 51-0
ROUND 3: Defeated "Wipe Out" by The Fat Boys and the Beach Boys 37-7
ROUND 4: Defeated "Puttin' on the Ritz" by Taco 38-21
ROUND 5: Defeated ""Bruce" by Rick Springfield 37-7
Final Score: Pac-Man 42, Roses 13. Buckner and Garcia's bunch ducked and dodged and gobbled up yardage against the a Fogelberg team used to going straight forward and powering ahead. That approach wasn't enough against the Pac's quickness, and the Roses soon ran out of lives and were forced to walk away from the tournament. But life after the tournament seems like it will be pretty good for the Rose boys. Their team owner has lined them up some very special "appointments," in order to create the next generation of stars, so they feel like winners in spite of this loss.
Friday, April 1, 2022
The OMYAM Podcast Episodes #96 & #97: Tales From the Bargain Bin #10 - Blue Angel & March 1, 1980
Two 1980-centric shows. First it's a look at the only album by a band whose singer later showed her true colors as an 80s icon. Then we check out charts from the third month of that year, discussing songs by Tommy James, Led Zeppelin, The Flying Lizards, Stiff Little Fingers, The Boomtown Rats, The Buggles, Smokey Robinson and more. Find the YouTube playlists here and here, and you can support the show on Patreon here. These episodes will give you such a thrill, even if they won't pay your bills.
Wednesday, March 2, 2022
The OMYAM Podcast Episode #95: February 12, 1977
This episode looks at charts from roughly 45 years ago, including discussion of hits by Earth Wind and Fire, Captain and Tennille, Hall and Oates, Liverpool Express, Bob Seger, The Sylvers and more. The YouTube playlist is here, and the opportunity to support the show on Patreon is here. Listen to this episode before the calliope crashes to the ground.
Saturday, February 19, 2022
The OMUTURE: Round 5
THE OUTNUMBERED BUT NOT OUTSTUNNED BOWL
"19," Paul Hardcastle, 1985
vs. "One," Metallica, 1989
Final Score: Nineteen 35, One 27. Both teams came out ready for a war, and the hard hitting and relentless pressure caused a lot of injuries on both sides. The 19 team, however, seemed to have a deeper bench. It seemed like Hardcastle had hundreds, if not thousands, of young men at his disposal, ready to come in and take a fallen teammate's place. Metallica's squad had a lot of heart, but the punishing action took a toll to the point where by the final stages they seemed more than ready for their tournament lives to be over.
THE I AIN'T GONNA PLAY ANYWHERE KINGS ARE GONNA UNDRESS ME BOWL
"I've Never Been to Me," Charlene, 1982
vs. "Sun City," Artists United Against Apartheid, 1986
Final Score: Never 19, City 14. The Charlene team continued to demonstrate that they were willing to go anywhere and do anything to experience all that this tournament have to offer, where as their opponents were always clear that there were some things they would not do, no matter what it cost them. And it finally did come to that. The Artists bow out with their principles intact, while the Me side continue to ignore the voices that tell them that winning this tournament might not be as fulfilling as they think it will be.
THE I'M INTO CLEAN STUFF BOWL
"Pac-Man Fever," Buckner and Garcia, 1982
vs. "Valley Girl," Frank and Moon Zappa, 1982
Final Score: Fever 25, Valley 17. The Pac-Men prevailed with their quick movement and ability to evade tackles from all sides, while Zappa's team seemed to lose interest in the game in the second half, and were like, ohmigod, these cleats are so ugly, and when I take them off the smell is like grody, grody to the max. I don't wanna do this anymore. Let's get this over with and go to the Galleria, you know?
THE GIVE ME THAT MAGIC FLUTE, NUMBSKULL BOWL
"The Curly Shuffle," Jump N the Saddle, 1984
vs. "Rock Me Amadeus," Falco, 1986
Final Score: Curly 31, Amadeus 14. The Saddle side's hard hitting and chaotic offense were impressive once again, but the real story of the game was an injury to Falco's star player, Wolfgang, who went down after an unfortunate collision with his backup, Salieri. Sone say that Salieri injured Wolfgang intentionally so he could prove that he was a better player, but whether he did so or not, he played poorly and was booed off the field by his own team's fans, while the Shuffle faithful mocked him and pelted him with cream pies.
THE COPING MECHANISMS BOWL
"Eat It," Weird Al Yankovic, 1984
vs. "Don't Worry, Be Happy," Bobby McFerrin, 1988
Final Score: Happy 35, Eat 19. The difference in this game was a lack of energy on the part of Yankovic's players, which was reportedly caused by lack of nourishment. Apparently they refused to have anything for a pregame meal because they were unhappy with the options available at the team hotel. The Happy team had no such issues, and they joyfully romped to yet another victory.
THE I'LL BE RIGHT HERE WATCHING MY STORIES BOWL
"General Hospi-Tale," The Afternoon Delights, 1981
vs. "Heartlight," Neil Diamond, 1982
Final Score: General 27, Heartlight 13. After their impressive win over Prince, the Delights take down another big name, in large part because Diamond's star player, who had carried the team this far with his otherworldly talent, was so confused by the ever shifting formations of the opposing defense that he was confused and frustrated and finally just wanted to go home. Interestingly, he did not leave the stadium on the bus with his teammates, but rather was picked up by a mysterious vehicle of another kind. But this player, who was referred to by his initials only, lit up this tournament while he was here, and memories of his performances will never leave us.
THE HOPEFULLY THERE'S NOT A CELIBATE ROPE IN THAT CELL BOWL
"Turning Japanese," The Vapors, 1980
vs. "Bust a Move," Young MC, 1989
Final Score: Turning 28, Bust 10. The Vapors team disoriented their opponents by turning up, turning down, turning in and turning round. The Young boys' moves were not distracting enough to divert the laser focus of the Japanese team. The losing team will now turn their attentions to scoring on a different kind of playing field.
THE MY NAME ISN'T SECRETARIAT EITHER BOWL
"Run for the Roses," Dan Fogelberg, 1982
vs. "Bruce," Rick Springfield, 1984
Final Score: Roses 37, Bruce 7. Springfield's team seemed to struggle with their identity in this game, while Fogelberg's side knew exactly who they were and what they had to do: they were athletes formed by genetics and training, and they wanted to run, run, run until the race, er, game, was over. And then enjoy a postgame meal of oats, carrots, and a sugar cube for dessert.
Friday, February 18, 2022
Episode #94: The Old Man's Ultimate Tournament of Uneasy Riders of the 80s - Semifinals
Friday, February 11, 2022
Episode #93: February 2, 1991
Friday, January 28, 2022
The OMYAM Podcast Episode #92: January 18, 1986
This episode talks about hits from 36 years ago, featuring songs by Twisted Sister, Grace Jones, The Box, Nana Mouskouri, Paul McCartney, A-ha, Eddie Murphy and more. Listen and watch more on YouTube here, and consider supporting the show on Patreon here. This episode is available in every city and every nation, from Lake Geneva to the Finland Station.
Thursday, January 27, 2022
The OMUTURE: Round 4
THE WHAT HAPPENED AFTER DIEN BIEN PHU FELL BOWL
"19," Paul Hardcastle, 1985
vs. "We Didn't Start the Fire," Billy Joel, 1989
Final Score: Nineteen 28, Fire 14. Hardcastle's battle-hardened unit was able to handle all of the different offenses the Fire brigade threw at them. But losing coach Joel seemed relieved that his tournament was over, as he was heard to exclaim "I can't take it anymore!"
THE GETTING BLOWN UP CAN HAVE DIFFERENT MEANINGS BOWL
"99 Luftballons," Nena, 1984
vs. "One," Metallica, 1989
Final Score: One 27, Luftballons 24 (OT). Both teams are known for playing like there's no tomorrow, so it was not surprising that the game wasn't decided in regulation time. Nena's team got the ball first in overtime, and they immediately went for a long bomb. They thought it was the winning play, but instead it spelled the end for them, as it was picked off and allowed Metallica to kick the clinching field goal. The defeated Germans left the stadium without taking down the colorful decorations they had put up in their dressing room in anticipation of a victory.
THE WOMAN CONFESSES TO BEING UNDRESSED BY KINGS, FILM AT 11 BOWL
"I've Never Been to Me," Charlene, 1982
vs. "Dirty Laundry," Don Henley, 1983
Final Score: Me 34, Laundry 14. The first half was close, as both teams were very capable of getting down and dirty in the trenches. But at halftime, Charlene told Henley that the flashy way the teams were playing was setting a bad example and that going to a simple, clean game plan was the way to really win. The Laundry squad took that to heart, but the Never team kept on with their high-flying, self-centred offense and pulled away. They move on, but are they really happy about it?
THE IT'S NOT ABOUT THE WEATHER BOWL
"Sun City," Artists United Against Apartheid, 1986
vs. "Rain on the Scarecrow," John Cougar Mellencamp, 1986
Final Score: Sun 31, Rain 30. Both teams brought the inensity that comes when you're fighting for something more than just winning a football game. In the end, it was a couple of lesser-known talents who stepped up at key moments to give them the narrow win. It was a bad day all around for the Scarecrows, as not only did they lose, but after the game, their uniforms, equipment, and event their team bus was repossessed by the bank. There's just memories for them now.
THE DOMO ARIGATO FOR THE QUARTERS, MOM BOWL
"Pac-Man Fever," Buckner and Garcia, 1982
vs. "Mr. Roboto," Styx, 1983
Final Score: Fever 41, Roboto 10. It was another dominant Pac-Man performance, as they gobbled up yardage and dodged tackles on their way to another high score. There was controversy afterward when the losing team removed their helmets to reveal that they were a different team called The Kilroys, but because they were the team that was there for the game, the Uneasy Rider Tournament Committee has decided that result will stand.
THE LIKE, OMYGOD, CHEMISTRY IS, LIKE, SO BITCHIN BOWL
"Valley Girl," Frank and Moon Zappa, 1982
vs. "She Blinded Me with Science," Thomas Dolby, 1983
Final Score: Valley 38, Science 7. The Zappas once again were able to confuse their opponents with the bizarre language they used when calling plays at the line of scrimmage. Who knew that "Bag Your Face" was a middle screen? The Science club experimented with multiple defenses, but they couldn't find the right formula. And as far as offense, the Valley squad saw through pretty much every play Dolby called. The winning team celebrated their victory by going shopping for jeans and getting pedicures.
THE HAVE WE REALLY EVOLVED THAT MUCH SINCE CAVEMAN TIMES BOWL
"The Curly Shuffle," Jump N the Saddle, 1984
vs. "Walk the Dinosaur," Was (Not Was), 1989
Final Score: Curly 45, Dinosaur 16. In a battle of teams with basic, almost primitive strategies, the Saddle boys were able to push, shove, poke, wallop, and mertilize their way past the strong but lumbering Dinosaur defense. The Walkers now face extinction, looking back on what was (not was) and what might have been.
THE PLAYING PIECES BOWL
"One Night in Bangkok," Murray Head, 1985
vs. "Rock Me Amadeus," Falco, 1986
Final Score: Amadeus 33, Bangkok 27. The unconventional genius of the Falco team managed to pull out a close victory over Murray and his methodical, calculated strategy. His team is out, leaving his players to go back to their bars, their temples, their massage parlors.
THE I CAN SEE WHAT YOU HAD FOR LUNCH BOWL
"Eat It," Weird Al Yankovic, 1984
vs. "Somebody's Watching Me," Rockwell, 1984
Final Score: Eat 27, Watching 17. Al's boys proved hungry for victory again, and ate up yardage while the Rockwell team's cautious approach seemed to paralyze them at times in this game. It may be because this was the first of their games where fans were allowed in the stands.
THE YOU CAN BE TOO CAREFREE BOWL
"Wasn't That a Party," The Rovers, 1981
vs. "Don't Worry Be Happy," Bobby McFerrin, 1988
Final Score: Happy 45, Party 3. The Rovers' habit of boisterously celebrating their victories caught up to them, as their players hadn't seemed to completely recover from the aftermath of their last win. A few players were absent due to being "detained," while those that were there appeared lethargic. Their opponents didn't seem to notice, they just played their game with their usual enthusiasm. The Party is over for the losers, who were seen after the game taking aspirin and slinking onto their bus, where they reportedly spent the whole ride home sleeping off their experience.
THE PORT CHARLES VS. GOTHAM BOWL
"General Hospi-Tale," The Afternoon Delights, 1981
vs. "Batdance," Prince, 1989
Final Score: General 34, Batdance 28. This was considered something of an upset. Many thought that Prince's team, with their remarkable strength and gadget plays, could go all the way. But the Delights attacked with surgical precision and play calls that created dramatic twists in the story of the game. The key play happened in the final minute, as the Bat team were driving for a potential winning score. A Hospi-Tale defender grabbed the quarterbat, er, quarterback's face mask and removed his helmet. The Delights were of course given a penalty, but the quarterback, who did not have his name on the back of his his jersey, quickly ran off the field with his hands over his face. His backup, Dick Grayson, moved the ball a little farther, but was sacked on the final play.
THE SPACE AGE TECHNOLOGY BOWL
"Heartlight," Neil Diamond, 1982
vs. "Velcro Fly," ZZ Top, 1986
Final Score: Heartlight 30, Velcro 13. The Top team had made it to this point thanks to a sticky defense that grabbed on and wouldn't let go, but their opponents this time seemed capable of flying away from them whenever they really needed to escape a tackle. The Heartlight squad also seemed to have boundless energy, which may have come by the handfuls of Reese's Pieces the players were eating every time they were on the sideline. Can they make it all the way, or will there be a sugar crash at some point that sends them home.
THE I'VE GOT A PICTURE OF YOU STEPPING ON A CRACK BOWL
"Whip It," Devo, 1980
vs. "Turning Japanese," The Vapors, 1980
Final Score: Turning 42, Whip 16. As usual, the Vapors studied their opponents' every move to the point of obsession leading up to the game, and that preparation paid off. The Devo team, however, claimed that the loss was mainly the caused by bad luck resulting from one of their players stepping on a crack in the pavement of the stadium parking lot. Reports of the losing team being severely punished for failing to advance are unconfirmed.
THE OFFENSE VS. DEFENSE BOWL
"Keep Your Hands to Yourself," The Georgia Satellites, 1987
vs. "Bust a Move," Young MC, 1989
Final Score: Bust 23, Hands 17. The Young team and its focus on offensive strategy managed to penetrate what had been a stout and stingy defense for the Georgia boys. Even worse for the losers, their sponsor reneged on a promise to provide the players with a lifetime supply of free milk for their efforts. They are reportedly now in the market for a cow.
THE GOOD BREEDING BOWL
"Run for the Roses," Dan Fogelberg, 1982
vs. "Puttin' on the Ritz," Taco, 1983
Final Score: Roses 38, Ritz 21. Both teams got this far largely by using their legs, but in this matchup, Fogelberg's side and its powerful, straight ahead running game was more effective than the Taco team's fancy footwork. The consolation for the Ritz players was that they do get a considerable amount of prize money for their previous victories, and they plan to spend every dime for a wonderful time.
THE ANGRY AUSSIES BOWL
"Bruce," Rick Springfield, 1984
vs. "Beds are Burning," Midnight Oil, 1988
Final Score: Bruce 28, Beds 27. Both teams played with a lot of passion, but in the end, the difference may have been the fact that Springfield's team is determined to make sure everyone knows their names at the end of this tournament, while the Oil men are playing less for themselves than for an important cause. The clock may have struck midnight for the Beds, but their desire to make the world better continues to burn.
Tuesday, January 18, 2022
The OMYAM Podcast Episode #91: Turn On Tune In Rock Out #11 - 33 1/3 Revolutions Per Monkee and Hey Hey It’s the Monkees!
This episode pays tribute to the late Mike Nesmith by looking at two Monkees TV specials that aired 29 years apart. One has Little Richard, Fats Domino and Jerry Lee Lewis. The other has...Chuck Woolery. Watch the shows and other related clips here, and support the show and listen to a Monkees-related episode here. This episode is too busy talking to put anybody down.
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