Branches Of Rock
This category will include most subcategories of rock, ie, soft-rock, rap-rock, pop-rock, etc. Everything except heavy metal or grunge.
I think this was the only song I ever liked from Bonnie Tyler! In fact, I think she was a one hit wonder. However, if you never listened to this song before, I recommend looking for the original song on YouTube. The reason being, as she gotten older, in my opinion her voice became harder to listen to. Now she sounds like she’s been smoking 10 packs of cigarettes per day. Yeeeeshhhhhh. It’s A Heartache.
I wasn’t a heavy KISS fan growing up, only because I didn’t have a strong emotional connection to hard-rock. However, like most musicophiles like me, there are always at least one or two songs from a least favorite artist that really stands out, and grabs our attention. The song “New York Groove” has had done it for me (or at least one of several of their songs). Most of the songs I like from them are songs I don’t directly interpret as rock (such as this one). “New York Groove,” is one of those complicated songs were I can’t hear a dominant genre. Sometimes I hear pop, and other times I almost think I hear country. In fact, sometimes I forget that this song was song by KISS, because it reminds me so much of Freddy Mercury of Queen. Check the song out, it’s a fun song and I think you’ll enjoy it. It was #9 in the U.K. and #13 in the U.S. Billboard HOT 100 chart.
I don’t think it’s my imagination, but finding album stats are becoming harder and harder to find. In my opinion, “Rhythm Nation,” has got to be Janet’s second, most successful album of her career (next to her “Control” album)! Or if not, it is my second most favorite Janet Jackson album! Almost all the songs in this album were in the top 10 range, and just about all her videos were perfect as well.
Now, I have to be honest, normally I’m not attracted to albums like these because there are some portions of the album that are political. Yet, there is enough diversity in the album that still managed to catch my attention. I think the best songs (and videos) from this album are “Escapade,” “Alright,” “Black Cat,” “Love Will Never Do,” and “Rhythm Nation.”
Song: An Old Fashioned Love Song
Artist: Three Dog Night
Album: Celebrate TTDN Story 1965-1975
Genre: Soft Rock
Unless your preferred music listening has always been rock, you most likely forgot about this group, or never heard of them at all. I don’t think they’re necessarily an obscured band, but I definitely think so among general music fans (especially 30 and younger). When I look at their streaming numbers, relatively speaking they’re not really that high. However, this doesn’t mean they didn’t do great music in the rock genre. To be honest, I hadn’t listened to their music for a really longtime. There are so much great classic music that exist, neglect of our old favorite classics is just bound to happen. It wasn’t until I started lookin’, that I actually realized how many songs they’ve done that turned out to be some of my favorites.
If There Is A Such Thing As Quality Rock Music
You know, I still don’t consider myself a “rock expert.” However, I’ve always said to myself, if there is a such thing as “quality rock music,” I think Three Dog Night’s name would be on that list. They’re one of the very few rock bands that create real love songs that actually borderline between soft and hard rock. I can’t think of too many bands that make these kinds of music. Surprisingly, one of my most favorite songs by them was one of the least played on music streaming. “An Old Fashioned Love Song,” for some reason was one of my favorites. Thinking back, the song sort of reminded me of one of those early eighties travel commercials. You know, one of those vacation resorts ?. However, their biggest hit of their career was actually a song called “Joy To The World.” You know, I still couldn’t figure out the meaning of this song. I think what threw me off was the title. It automatically sends a message that this is a xtian song, but it’s not. Perhaps the lyrics in the song were cryptic. Then again, maybe it was just one of those quicky songs where random sentences were put together. We had a lot of those in the 70s & 80s. America’s “Horse With No Name,” was another annoying song I couldn’t figure out. WTF?? Anywayz…… Although I can’t figure out what the hell the song meant, it had an awesome tune that made it popular.
Joy To The World – The Lyrics Didn’t Make Sense To Me!
Throughout the band’s existence, they’ve gone through a heavy turnaround rate. It’s amazing how many members they’ve gone through, and yet they still managed to pump out hits. Today, the band is unrecognizable. If it were not for their brand name, and the consistency in their music, I wonder if they’d still have that faithful fan base? Checkout some of their other awesome hits. Such as, “Mama Told Me (Not To Come),” “One” (I always mistaken “One,” for a Beatles song), and “Black and White.” Lastly, I want you guys to check out a cover that was first made popular by Otis Redding. It’s called “Try A Little Tenderness.” Wow!! They sounded amazing! In my opinion, they tore this song up! I really appreciated that they kept Otis’s spirit in the song. Very nicely done for all you old Otis fans out there!
Song: Owner Of A Lonely Heart
Artist: Yes
Album: 90185 (Deluxe) (1983)
Genre: Rock
Well, today’s title should not be mistaken to mean “phenomenal,” I just couldn’t resist the opportunity to make a joke of this band’s name. YES. I know some heavy rock fans may hate me for this, but, this was not a favorite band of mine at all. Then again, I’ve also said many times before, rock music was never a significant genre I played a whole lot of. Although, I didn’t particularly care for their music at all, they produced one massive hit that became my one and only favorite by them.
There Was Only One Major Hit As Far As I’m Concerned!!!
This song was huge enough that I’m sure even the most mediocre music lover has heard of. The song was called “Owner Of A Lonely Heart.” The song reached #1 in America, and remains to be their biggest hit here. I should mention that they do have several hits under their belt, they’re just not in my taste. Songs such as “RoundAbout (1972),” and “I’ve Seen All Good People (1981).” Maybe I should also mention that this group comes out of the England/UK. I’ve always been really particular with music that comes from the UK. I like UK music almost as little as I enjoy rock music (in general). You know, I always used to get confused when I heard “Owner Of A Lonely Heart” on the radio back in the day, because this particular song reminded me so much of “The Police.” It sounds very much like the kinds of music The Police would do.
Song: Every Time You Go Away
Artist: Paul Young
Album: The Secrets Of Association (1985)
Genre: Branches Of Rock
Not only was Paul Young’s “Every Time You Go Away,” one of my favorite songs by him, it turned out to be one of the biggest hits of the 80s! This song was HUGE! The song practically immortalized him. One things for sure, you may not remember his name immediately off the bat; but I think you’ll definitely remember his music when you hear it. Well, at least those of us who are at least 40(ish) and older. Now, I have to be honest, I can’t say I was a huge fan of his music in general. However, there were two songs he made that hit big, and pretty much those two were the only favorites of mine (including featured song).
He Only Had Two Top 10 Hits!
“Every Time You Go Away,” hit #1 in 1985 on the Top 100. The song stayed on the charts for about 22-23 weeks. I remember almost every radio station playing this song, and that included stations that were categorized as mostly “easy listening.” In my opinion, this was the perfect “coming of age” love song, yet adult enough to apply to anyone of any age. The second song I really liked from him was a song called “Oh Girl (1990).” Actually, this is a cover song originally sang by The Chi-Lites. Paul Young’s version reached #8 on the Top 100 Chart. This pretty much concludes all his hits. He did have two more songs that did ok, but the two I’ve mentioned earlier were his money makers, as well as most popular.
Song: You Ain’t Seen Nothing Yet
Artist: Bachman-Turner Overdrive
Album: Not Fragile (1974)
Genre: Branches Of Rock
I don’t think I’ve heard anything from this band for a really long time. Back in the day, I used to confuse Bachman-Turner Overdrive with The Steve Miller Band. Not really comparing these two, but there were certain rhythms in a couple of their songs that were extremely similar. Bachman-Turner Overdrive had many hits throughout their career, however, I only liked one song, and that was “You Ain’t Seen Nothing Yet.” This song was in heavy rotation on all the rock stations. In fact, it was also in a lot of commercials as well. Other than this song, I really wasn’t turned on by their music. The song hit #1 in Germany, New Zealand, Canada, US, and #2 in the UK.
Song: Oh Sherrie
Artist: Steve Perry
Album: Greatest Hits + 5 (1998)
Genre: Rock
Now, of course, many people are going to have different opinions about this, but just keep in mind that this is my own personal opinion. As both a blogger and a heavy music fan, when it comes to rock music, I feel that Steve Perry is one of the very few greatest rock voices that ever lived (at least in my generation). Steve has a voice that demands attention. I mean, the only other person I can think of, that has a voice powerful enough (and better even) could even dare challenge him, would have been the late Freddy Mercury of QUEEN (that would have been a spectacular concert if that indeed happened, yes?) That’s my opinion. Let’s face it, very few male 80s rock “singers” could actually sing, without interpreting their output as pure yelling!
I’ve Heard Very Few Male 80s Rock Singers, That Didn’t Scream Their Way Through!
You know, I looked at Steve, and never thought that an amazing voice could come out of that tiny body. ? I think it’s safe to say that Steve truly made his mark as lead singer of Journey, with the following two songs. The first, a song called “Open Arms (1982),” which reached #2 on the Top 100 chart. The second song was called “Never Stop Believin’ (1981),” which peaked at #9 on the Top 100. You know, after the fact, it seemed very strange that this song peaked at only #9 considering this song was remixed and played so many times. At times it seemed more popular than “Open Arms.” Then again, I guess I have to remember it depends on the environment I’m in. Because in the clubs, they played “Never Stop Believin'” a lot. In fact, many “Bring To Action” type groups used this song as their anthem.
What a great song it was though. There’s no doubt that this song was and still is extremely inspirational. After Steve left the group Journey, he produced two songs from his solo career that became my ultimate favorites. The First Song is called “Oh Sherrie (1984),” and peaked at #3. I loved this song. Not only was the music great, I loved the way he sang it. I thought the way he emphasized the “N” sound, in the lyrics “You Should Have Been Gonnnnnnnnnnnnneeeeee” was absolutely hilarious! ? Since he partly written the song, I guess some of that was personal experience (as most songs where back in the day). The last ultimate favorite is called “Foolish Heart (1985).” I think this was a really nice rock ballad. It only reached #18 (which isn’t bad). I’ll tell you one thing, all those classic rock stations playing love songs from back in the day, usually this song would bound to popup at some point.
Song: Mr. Blue Sky
Artist: Electric Light Orchestra
Album: Out Of The Blue (1977)
Genre: Rock
Guys, please don’t judge their name! Although their name sounds like they belong to some sort of circus or novelty act, this England born band produced beyond amazing music when I was growing up. And the proof in that, is their staggering streaming numbers. The song “Mr. Blue Sky” was released in 1977, how the hell did it manage to gather 360M streams from Spotify alone? Are you kidding me? That’s the kind of streams that only someone like Whitney Houston, or Michael Jackson got. Yet, if you ask the average person who they are, they draw a blank! Most people don’t have a clue.
How Can A Group Get So Much Plays, Yet People Barely Remember Them?
That’s mind boggling to me. Either this is an example of how complicated an artist/band stats are, or streaming is moving so incredibly fast, that we are missing a major part of our music history! Don’t you think? To throw an even bigger wrench into the equation, they never had a number one hit! But they do have 7 Top Tens under their belt.
Despite “Mr. Blue Sky” being so successful, the song was at the bottom when it came to my favorites. The song that I think is probably most known/remembered was from their album “A New World Record,” the song is called “Telephone Line (1976).”It also happens to be one of my top favorites. This peaked at #7 on the Top 100, and was their highest ranking song on the charts. Also, from that same album was another favorite of mine called “Livin’ Thing,” and it only peaked at #13 (which is not bad). It’s a really nice album, I recommend it. Check out some of their other hits, “Don’t Break Me Down,” and another great song of theirs “Evil Woman.”
Song: Hit Me With Your Best Shot!
Artist: Pat Benatar
Album: Crimes Of Passion (1980)
Genre: Alternative Rock
You know, technically, I don’t think Pat Benatar is a forgotten artists per-say. At least not from the standpoint of her music being obscure. However, I do think she’s a forgotten artist from the standpoint of her being a woman within the rock genre. Like rap, the 80s was really tough for female rockers, in a male dominated genre. She had (and still has) the voice for rock music, but unfortunately this very talented rock artist never had a number one, and as far as I know, never been inducted into the Rock Hall of Fame. However, that didn’t stop her from obtaining 4 awesome Top 10 Hits! As I’ve said earlier, I’ve never had any particular interest in borderline hard rock. But, Mrs. Benatar was one of those rare acceptations.
Such Power In Her Voice, Yet She Never Had A #1 Song!
And one of the 4 Top Tens, happens to be today’s song pick. “Hit Me With Your Best Shot,” from her 1980s “Crimes Of Passions” album. This song peaked at #9, and in my opinion, is probably one of the most memorable songs of her career. To my understanding, this song was actually her first Top 10 Hit. The song was so popular, it was heard during many sports games and sports commercials. Another hit I loved was her song “Love Is A Battle Field (1989).” I thought the video was awesome too. While I mentioned her video, I want you to check it out. One of the dancers has a striking resemblance to Stephanie Mills. I’ll give you one more favorite. The song “We Belong (1985),” was a badass song back in the day. I used to listen to it all the time. This amazing song reached #5 on the Top 100 Chart.
Song: Come And Get Your Love
Artist: Redbone
Album: Come And Get Your Love (1973) (Single)
Genre: Rock
Maybe I’m wrong? Or maybe I’m right? But, I think I’ve shocked the shit out of my readers on this post! To those who are shocked, what did you think when I said that I love all kinds of music? What did you think I meant when I said that I am culturally diverse when it comes to music? If anything, I hope you’re visiting my blog to gain insight into great classic music that existed, and not simply scrolling down my posts until you see an artist you know. If you do, what’s the point of “discovery” if you’re not looking for it? I digress.
Their Massive One Hit Immortalized Them!
It is unfortunate that if today you’d ask an American contemporary rock fan, “who did they think was the best 70s rock band (or perhaps who did they think had the most popular song)?” Off the top of their head, what do you think would be the likelihood of them picking a Native American band? I would almost bet on zero. Although, I’m really not familiar with each individual band member’s heritage, my understanding is that most were mixed/descendants of a Mexican family tree. Thus, they’ve chosen to call themselves “Redbone,” a Cajun word meaning mixed race. Only 3 of 5 band members are still alive. Peter DePoe, Arturo Perez & Butch Rillera.
To simply say that their song “Come And Get Your Love” was a popular hit, would be a gross understatement in my opinion. The song peaked at #5 on the Hot 100 Charts in 1974. Now, even today, Spotify alone has this song at 132 million plays! And guys, that’s just this single! There are more plays because the same song is on different streaming albums. Do you realize how rare that is, to see a classic song streamed that much? A lot of the most popular classic artists don’t get streaming numbers like that! It really wouldn’t surprise me if we combined all the streaming services and include YouTube, and saw that they’ve amassed 600+ million streams. Seriously, this was a great song! I used to stop and listen to this on the radio all the time.
Song: Dance With Me
Artist: Orleans
Album: Let There Be Music (1975)
Genre: Soft Rock
I can’t remember if I already blogged about this group on my old blog. I guess it doesn’t really matter, there will always be content someone hasn’t seen yet ?. Well, today’s group is a group called “Orleans.” They’ve been around for a really, really long time. In fact, they’ve been performing since about the early 1970s. This is the kind of light rock I’m attracted to. Actually, I guess technically you can make an argument that today’s song leans more towards country. I wouldn’t disagree.
I Love How Well They Harmonize!
Their hit “Dance With Me,” reached #6 in the US, and #5 in Canada. The song eventually hit certified gold! This remains my most favorite song throughout their entire discography. They harmonized so well together, making it one of the most romantic songs by a group (of this genre) (in my opinion). Another major hit I loved from Orleans was their song called “Still The One (1976).” I considered this song to be another masterpiece.
“Still The One” reached #5 in the US and #9 in Canada, and also grabbed gold certification! They just don’t make good music like this anymore, and neither are they playing them anymore. Unfortunately, the two above songs were their greatest accomplishments musically. However, they did have a song called “Love Takes Time (1977)” that reached #11, but I didn’t like it at all. It borderlines the kind of rock I normally don’t listen to. I don’t think the group has made any new material for a while. Most of what I’ve seen were republished songs. It’s a shame they only had 3 major hits, they’re actually a very talented group in my opinion.
Song: Dust In The Wind
Artist: Kansas
Album: Point Of Know Return (1977)
Genre: Soft Rock
I can’t remember if I’ve already written about this on my old blog. I don’t think so. Have you guys read of a band called Kansas? These rock (boarder line country) bands used to crack me up back in the day, because it was so common for them to name themselves after cities. Kansas, Chicago, Baton Rouge, Houston, the list goes on. Maybe it was a pride thing? Wanting everyone to know where they’re from (perhaps). Come to think of it, a lot of their album art had a familiar look as well. Although “Dust In The Wind” was their only #1 hit (also my personal favorite) of their career, they’re quite talented in my opinion. You should also check out their song called “Carry On Wayward Son (1976),” from their “Leftoverture” album. It almost hit made the Top 10 List, but it’s still a great song tho.
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I have to tell yah……… The group “Free,” in my opinion, was one of the many most underrated rock bands in history. As someone who’s in to all kinds of music, I really felt that these guys could sing as a solid rock band. In London, 4 guys decided to come together and form phenomenal rock band; Paul Kossoff, Simon Kirke, Paul Rodgers and Andy Fraiser. In 1968, these 4 guys became “Free.” It’s sad that they broke up within 5 years of getting together. It is unclear exactly why they broke up. I could only imagine it was probably about creative differences.
I guess in the end, it really didn’t matter, as two of the four members died as a result of poor health and drug issues (typical). Free struck gold, with their massive mega rock hit “All Right Now (1970).” The song peaked at #4 on the Top 100 Charts. The song was so popular, it not only made it’s way to a Burger King commercial, it also made Wrigley’s Gum commercial too. Interesting interview I’ve read with drummer Simon Kirke. He shared that “All Right Now,” was actually a song written after a bad gig one night. It was then that the group decided they must increase their tempo. Out of that meeting “All Right Now” was born.
I wonder out of curiosity, how many people remember Tracy Ulman? I would think not that many. Tracy was born in the UK, and she was an extremely successful 80s actress and singer. She had her own TV show, called The Tracy Ulman show. It aired from 1987 thru 1990. It was funny as hell in my opinion. I think she’s talented both as an actress and as a singer. One of my favorite songs she sung (which I also believe (if my memory is correct) was the theme song from that show) was “They Don’t Know (1983),” It was from her debut album “You Broke My Heart In Seventeen Places.” The song hit #8 on the Top 100 Charts. The album was actually cute, it has a 60s sound to it. I don’t think she has made an album in quite a long time. Most are just re releases of her old stuff. Although I think her music was cute, honestly I think I liked her better as an comedian.
Well, I certainly don’t think they meant cool whip ? ?! How many classic fans remember this group? Talk about a weird and eccentric (I guess)! These guys were the kind of group where their music videos were actually more interesting to watch than listening to their music by itself. When I first saw what they looked like, I said to myself WTF? ? They reminded me of those really old Japanese Sci-Fi movies, where aliens come to blow up the planet! ? But, the seventies Sci-Fi look became their trademark. At the moment, I don’t recall any other band that was copying their style at the time.
The groups name is “Devo.” Devo is from Ohio, and got together in 1973. I didn’t even realize they were around that long! I never heard of them before, until I heard their smash hit on the radio. “Whip It (1980),” was a huge popular hit. But, you’d be surprised to know that it did NOT hit #1. In fact, it wasn’t even in the top ten. Whip It peaked at #14 on the Top 100 Charts. However, it hit #8 under “Dance Club Songs,” category. In my opinion, Whip It is the best of all their songs. While I think the song should be historically acknowledged, their music seemed more like a passing fad to me. Their music isn’t the kind of music that most music fans would normally listen to over and over again.
From an art perspective, I absolutely love this album cover. It’s extremely simple, and yet the photo suggests a man who is very mysterious. When I first saw this album cover, it reminded me of the movie Dark Man (1990). You guys remember that movie? Starring Liam Neeson? Great movie.
My pick for today is an 80s artist named John Waite. Now, I don’t think that I can say with certainty that John is a “one hit wonder,” simply because he’s from England, and like in America, we have all these different kinds of billboard categories that sometimes make it difficult to measure artists’ popularity or even success.
However, after sifting throw some charts I get a sense John only had one massive hit across the board (which happens to be my favorite). The song is called “Missing You (1984).” “Missing You” reached #1 in both Canada and the United States. In the UK the song peaked at #9. This one song made him a memorable music legend. Before his solo success, he was in a British rock band called “The Babys.”
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We’ll know that rubbing Styx together makes fire! And the band Styx were hot in the 80s! Styx is a rock band that formed around the early seventies. They’ve had a few Top Ten Hits over the course of their career. Man! Musically speaking…. Talk about confusing?? You see, for me… Dennis DeYoung, who’s the primary lead singer for Styx, sounds almost identical to Air Supply’s Russell Hitchcock. It was a frustrating time for me, because every time I walked into the record store, I’d ask for Air Supply, when I really meant Styx. Today, we don’t have to worry about those things, because most mobile audio apps show all this information. Or we can just Shazam it.
Well, I guess technically I can’t say they’re a one hit wonder, because they have more than 8 Top Tens under their belt. However, I only have one huge favorite from them, that not only hit #1 on the Hot 100 Charts, but it stayed #1 for two consecutive weeks! The song is called “Babe,” released in 1979, from their 7th album called Cornerstone. The band has broken-up a couple of times. They’ve pretty much went on their separate ways. I’ve read that the lead singer DeYoung was extremely difficult to deal with. With so many hits they’ve made together, I’m not even sure if their attempts of creating a reunion will be successful. However, in a recent article, DeYoung states that it might be possible (only if) they’re inducted in the Hall Of Fame.
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ny time we talk about rock legends (for those of us who are old enough), what are the names that usually pop up immediately in our heads? I think it’s safe to say that the one name that’s always on the top of that list is Elvis Presley, you agree? Maybe another name that would probably pop up is, the legendary Chuck Berry? Or perhaps I should drop one more name. How about Bill Haley & The Comets? Although their probably only known today (if any), by their massive global hit, “Rock Around The Clock (1973),” which was the opening theme song to the TV cult classic “Happy Days.” It was a pretty good show I may add. Who would have ever thought that Ron Howard would move on to be a big time movie producer huh?
Although I’ve just named some good ones, there is one major rock legend that (in my opinion) seems to slip from many people’s memories. That is Jerry Lee Lewis. Jerry was like a one man Beatle(s), that’s the easiest way to describe just how popular this man’s music was, to those who are not familiar with him. This guy has published so many albums, he can literally have his own library. Although he’s best remembered for his rock ‘n’ roll, he also done a lot of country music as well. In fact, quite a few of them rose to #1. However, to be quite honest, I much preferred his wild “Chuck Berry” style of rock ‘n’ roll. Most if not all his country put me to sleep (and you guys should know by now, I love me some classic country music, but I’ll have to pass on Jerry’s country ?). Now, I could be wrong with what I’m about to say, but I am just going by my memories of actually listening to his music growing up. I’m going to say that based on my opinion that Jerry’s song “Great Balls Of Fire,” released in 1957 was one of his (if not the) biggest memorable song in his entire career. I say this because out of all the other songs I’ve heard by Jerry, I remembered this one to be the dominant song on the radio. It reached #2 on the Top 100 Charts, and #1 on the Hot Country Charts. It was ranked 96 as the greatest song ever made according to Rolling Stone Magazine.
So, it’s kind of difficult for me to find out just how many hit songs Jerry actually had, because some songs of his I personally would categorize as rock, is actually under country. So I’ve obtained a few numbers, I’m just going to assume they include all his hits. O.K., I have the following; 4 Number Ones, 23 Top Tens, out of a total of 55 songs that actually made it to The Billboard Music Charts. This was impressive, considering his career could have been completely destroyed, after a scandal that broke about him marrying his cousin. Americans didn’t tolerate those things in the 50s (still don’t), and it’s quite shocking that he found venues to even perform after that. Now imagine the public rage, when the story broke about director Woody Allen married his adopted daughter. Jerry’s scandal was 10 times worse.
Jerry is now about 83 or 84 years old, alive and kicking. I’ve read some sources that say he’s still performing. Other songs I’ve enjoyed were “What’d I Say,” which was originally song by Ray Charles I believe. Finally a song called “Jailhouse Rock,” which I believe Elvis sang this song as well. Despite Jerry’s scandal somehow he still managed to achieve legendary status in rock music. If not for his music, he still would have been legendary for the scandal. Either way.
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I know I’ve written about the legendary Eagles band not too long ago on my old site. However, while listening to some internet radio, I heard more amazing classics by them, which inspired me to share more of their legendary music. The first time, I’ve written about their hit song (#4 in position) “Take It To The Limit.” Now, I’d like to introduce to you some of their number ones.
The Eagles Is One Of The Most Beloved Bands In America
I think it’s safe to go ahead and say that The Eagles is one of the most beloved bands in America (at least when it comes to classic rock/country). They too, are one of the very few groups where their music has transcended generations and genres. Good music is just good music; these are the kinds of artists that become immortalized.
If you’re a young person who digs classic rock bands, I highly recommend that you check out The Eagle’s music. Out of 21 songs that were popular enough to make it on the charts; 5 of them were #1, a #2 song, and 9 other top 10 hits during their career. They formed in the early 1970s, and the original members were Glenn Fry, Don Henley, Bernie Leadon, and Randy Meisner. The group amassed 6 Grammy Awards, 5 American Music Awards, and 6 number one albums. The Eagles meant serious business!!
Hotel California Was My Jam!
It’s difficult to say which is my most favorite song. However, If I were forced to pick one; I’d have to say “Hotel California (1977).” I think this was their second number one song. Man, it seemed like every single artist that new how to sing, or play an instrument did a cover of this song! It was like….. You know how you make the decision to learn how to play an instrument, and there’s always that one “easy” go to melody? That’s what it was like listening to soooooo many different renditions of this song. ? I have to say, the only rendition that was worth my ears, was from a group called the Gypsy Kings. They perform mostly flamenco and salsa music.
Also, in my opinion, The Eagles has produced some of the most romantic soft rock songs I’ve ever heard. A good example is “Best Of My Love (1975),” which by the way also hit #1 on the Top 100 Charts. How about their song called “Heartache Tonight (1979)?” Did mention that was a number one too? Goodness!! Too many great songs. However, I want to end with one of my very favorites. The following song peaked at #8, and it’s called “I Can’t Tell You Why (1980).” I think this is such a beautiful song. Even if there were no lyrics, I think the background composition still would have became a hit! There’s only one other song I felt like that, and that’s Carole King’s “So Far Away (1971).”
I was listening to classic internet radio the other day (which happens to be the best kind of radio nowadays), and “Just You ‘N’ Me” by Chicago came on. I haven’t heard this in ages. Chicago is one of my very, very favorite bands. They had a LOT of hits from back in the day. I place them very high on the music bar; alongside The Eagles, and Earth, Wind, & Fire.
Indeed, One Of The Best Bands Of The 70s/80s
The band Chicago is from Chicago Illinois, and was first formed on the year of my birthday in 1967. For the most part, they’re a soft-rock, & pop-rock. Their original name was “Chicago Transit Authority.” Awhile later they decided to shorten it to just “Chicago.” Chicago probably had more employees over the course of their existence than Earth, Wind & Fire. Actually, probably more than any band.
Unfortunately, there are only 3 original members remaining. Robert Lamm, Lee Loughnane, and James Pankow. I am so amazed and thrilled that they’re still around. You know, from a marketing standpoint, they knew their brand. Has any of my readers who are fans of Chicago took the time to look through Chicago’s album art? Very impressive, and there is no doubt that this played a part in burning this legendary band in to people’s memory.
Only 3 Members Left!
You know what? Large bands like Chicago, EW&F, MFSB, they where one of a kind. Not just because of their music, but I feel that the way the music industry is now, they would never pay for large bands like this anymore. This generation only seems to focus on single artists.
In addition to “Just You ‘N’ Me,” which hit #4 by the way. I’d like to share some more of my very favorite hits. One of the most beautiful songs I’ve ever heard from any band is “If You Leave Me Now,” this song is so romantic. Apparently other fans thought so too, as the song shot up to #1 in 1976. This is the perfect please forgive me song. ?? “Hard To Say I’m Sorry,” #1 on the charts, “Saturday In The Park,” #3 on the charts, “You’re The Inspiration,” also peaked #3 on the charts. I could go on and on. Check out their greatest hits album an walk down memory lane!! Oh yeah, check out their website too. It’s really cool. Thanks for reading.
I wasn’t a terribly huge fan of the Beatles, or Paul McCartney for that matter. Well, not enough to buy their albums. However, there are some singles that Paul McCartney produced with Wings that became my all-time favorites. One of them that is a song he recorded when he was with the band Wings; and the song is called “My Love,” released in 1973.
Great Love Songs In Modern Rock
In my opinion, I think “My Love,” was one of the great love songs in “modern rock.” I used quotes around that term because that’s what we used back then between the 70s and 80’s to describe this kind of music. For the purpose of this classic blog, modern rock is no where near the same meaning as what you’d think about modern rock today! I guess today, we’d put this under the soft-rock category, or perhaps romantic-rock (if there’s such a category).
Feel Like They’re Listening To AM Radio Today
There’s no doubt in my mind that most people younger than myself, maybe in the 30-40 range, would listen to this music and feel like they’re listening to AM radio today! ‘Cause this was exactly the kind of music you’d find there (other than predominantly news and sports). I think it’s safe to say that a huge chunk of Paul’s music has been either pop, or easily listening.
Wings Members Included Paul’s Wife
Wings was a band that Paul started about a year after he left the Beatles. Honestly, I’m shocked as to how long they actually lasted. Within 10 years the group members have changed so much (like shoes). The only core members that remained was McCartney and his then wife Linda.
There are four more favorites by Wings I’d think you’d like. “Band On The Run,” “Let ‘Em In,” and “Silly Love Songs.”