If I Could Turn Back Time. If I Could Find a Way

It's the last day of 2010 folks. Unbelievable that we've spent a full decade in the 2000's already! The 80's are becoming older and older and seem so far away now as most of us that spent the formative part of youth during that decade can attest. This time of year is usually a time of reflection and also of looking forward to things yet to come with promises of new tomorrows and new resolutions to fulfill.
Today's video has already been in The Excellent 80's before, but it's one of my favorite videos and songs of the 80's and pretty appropriate during times of reflection like now. It's the gorgeous (then 43 year old) Cher on board the USS Missouri with some wild sailors, her son Elijah Blue on guitar, and the unforgettable hit "If I Could Turn Back Time"...




Lyrics | Cher lyrics - If I Could Turn Back Time lyrics

"If I Could Turn Back Time"

Single by Cher
from the album Heart of Stone
B-side "Some Guys" (previously unreleased track)
Released June 1, 1989
Recorded 1989
Genre Pop rock, Soft rock
Length 3:56
Label Geffen
Writer(s) Diane Warren
Producer David Geffen
Certification Gold [1]

U.S. Billboard Hot 100 peak: #3

If You Can Give It, I Can Take It

Today's "live" video is from a 1989 appearance by the ageless wonder known simply as Cher. OK, so she's gotten a little older over the years, but even in today's video she was 43 years old and on her 20th album. This song has a little country feel to it, and it should because it's called "Just Like Jesse James"...




Lyrics | Cher lyrics - Just Like Jesse James lyrics

"Just Like Jesse James"
Single by Cher
from the album Heart of Stone
B-side "Starting Over"
Released October 1989
Recorded 1989
Genre Pop/Rock
Length 4:08
Label Geffen Records
Writer(s) Desmond Child; Diane Warren
Producer David Geffen

U.S. Billboard Hot 100 peak: #8

Well, I'm No Angel, Now, I'll Admit

Today's classic hit from 1988 features plenty of water and a hot chick wearing lots of different outfits and featuring a sweet kick to the roof. I'm not sure why she's mad in this video. I guess she just can't trust poor Eddie Money and that's why Eddie feels like he needs to "Walk on Water" to prove his love to this lovely, but vicious dame.




Lyrics | Eddie Money lyrics - Walk On Water lyrics

"Walk on Water"
Single by Eddie Money
from the album Nothing to Lose and Greatest Hits: The Sound of Money
B-side "Dancing With Mr. Jitters"
Released October 1, 1988
Format 7" single
Genre Rock
Label Columbia
Writer(s) Jesse Harms

U.S. Billboard Hot 100 peak: #9

R.I.P. Teena Marie

Found dead at her home in California on Sunday, 54 year old Teena Marie (real name Mary Christine Brockert), came on the music scene in 1979 with her debut album that included a R&B top 10 hit with mentor (and later lover) Rick James called "I'm Just a Sucker for Your Love." Because of being on the Motown label early on, many thought Marie was African American until her appearance on "Soul Train" with Rick James singing the hit duet in 1979. Marie would later go on to more success on the R&B charts as well as a top 10 Billboard hit - "Lovergirl." Here is another one of her appearances on "Soul Train" with her only #1 R&B hit called "Ooo La La La"...





"Ooo La La La"
Single by Teena Marie
from the album Naked to the World
Released 1988 (U.S.)
Genre R&B
Length 5:17
Writer(s) Teena Marie, Allen McGrier
Producer Teena Marie

U.S. Billboard Hot 100 peak: #85
U.S. R&B singles peak: #1

There' Smell of Fresh Cut Grass

Yesterday I posted the Indigo Girls 1989 hit "Closer to Fine." They were provided with some backing music by the Irish band Hothouse Flowers who I had never heard of. So, I did a little digging and found out they were pretty popular back in Ireland during the late 80's and early 90's. Even Rolling Stone Magazine called them "the best unsigned band in Europe" at one point in the mid 80's. All I can say about today's "hit" from Hothouse Flowers is thank goodness for lyricsmode.com because I couldn't understand a word except for the track's title "Don't Go"...

Lyrics | Hothouse Flowers lyrics - Don't Go lyrics

"Don't Go"
Single by Hothouse Flowers
from the album People
Released February 22, 1988
Genre Rock
Length 3:48

UK peak: #11
U.S. Modern Rock tracks peak: #7

I'm Trying to Tell You Something About My Life

Today's post is a first for this duo that didn't really come onto the scene until the late 80's with the release of their first major album. With a little assistance from an Irish band known as Hothouse Flowers, it's the Grammy-award winning Indigo Girls with "Closer to Fine"...




Lyrics | Indigo Girls lyrics - Closer To Fine lyrics

"Closer to Fine"

by Indigo Girls
from the album: Indigo Girls
released 1989

U.S. Billboard Hot 100 peak: #52

Christmas Is the Time to Say I Love You

I posted this here last year, and I couldn't help but post it again because it's so 80's. It captures the look and the feel of the 80's and incorporates all of the original MTV VJ's except Alan Hunter (R.I.P. JJ) all singing together as the chorus to Billy Squier's "Christmas Is the Time to Say I Love You." What do you want to bet Billy took Nina back to his place for a little Christmas cheer afterwards? Merry Christmas everyone!




Lyrics | Billy Squier lyrics - Christmas Is The Time To Say 'i Love You' lyrics

"Christmas is the Time to Say I Love You"
by Billy Squier
released: 1981

Last Christmas I Gave You This Video

It's just become tradition to post today's Christmas classic in here every year. Everyone get ready to wave really hard and happily at George as he steps out of his taxi and waves back to all those who have already gathered for their wintry Christmas getaway. And try to overlook George and Andrew with girlfriends. Merry Christmas eve!




Lyrics | George Michael lyrics - Wham! / Last Christmas lyrics

"Last Christmas"
Single by Wham!
from the album Music from the Edge of Heaven
Released December 1984
Format 12", 7", CD single
Recorded 1984
Genre Pop, holiday
Length 4:27
6:45 (Pudding Mix)
Label Columbia Records (US/Canada)
Epic Records
Writer(s) George Michael
Producer George Michael

I'm Chillin' and Coolin' Just Like a Snowman

It's been a few years or so since I posted my all-time favorite Christmas rap song. Is there even any other choice? Of course not. It's Run-DMC with "Christmas in Hollis"...




Lyrics | Run-d.m.c. lyrics - Christmas In Hollis lyrics

"Christmas in Hollis"
Single by Run-D.M.C.
from the album A Very Special Christmas
B-side Peter Piper
Released November 1987
Format Vinyl, Cassette
Recorded 1987
Genre Hip hop
Length 2:59
Label A&M Records
Writer(s) Joseph Simmons, Darryl McDaniels, Jason Mizell
Producer Rick Rubin, Run-D.M.C.

Me, I Want a Hula Hoop

Today's Christmas song isn't an 80's original. In fact, it's much older than the 80's, but hey, this is my blog, and I can break the rules should I choose. It was one of my favorites when I was little, so I'm bringing it into The Excellent 80's for the first time. From 1958, this song won three Grammy awards and hit #1 on the U.S. Billboard charts. Here is Alvin and the Chipmunks with The Chipmunk Song (Christmas Don't Be Late)"...




Lyrics | Alvin And The Chipmunks lyrics - The Chipmunk Song / Christmas Don't Be Late (Classic Version) lyrics

"The Chipmunk Song (Christmas Don't Be Late)"
Single by The Chipmunks
A-side The Chipmunks, Alvin, Theodore & Simon, with the music of David Seville - The Chipmunk Song (Christmas Don't Be Late)
B-side David Seville - Almost Good
Released 1958 (U.S.)
Format 7"
Genre Christmas song
Length 2:17
Label Liberty Records (F-55168)
Writer(s) Ross Bagdasarian, Sr. (a.k.a. David Seville)
Producer Ross Bagdasarian, Sr. (a.k.a. David Seville)

White Christmas and I'm Blue

It's another rendition of the beard and the boobs today for you. Yes, I'm talking about the dynamic country duo of Kenny Rogers and Dolly Parton, and a Christmas video/song we haven't featured in The Excellent 80's before. With less than a week until Christmas, enjoy this 1984 classic from the duo's Christmas album (one of the biggest selling Christmas albums of the 80's) called "Once Upon a Christmas." From their CBS television special, here is "Christmas Without You"...




Lyrics | Christmas Songs lyrics - Christmas Without You lyrics

"Christmas Without You"

by Kenny Rogers and Dolly Parton
from the album: Once Upon a Christmas
released: 1984

80's Christmas Commercials

Always one of my favorite 80's commercials around this time of year. Thank you Folgers.



And you can't go the whole Holiday season without some red and green M&M's... it's anti-American if you do!



And there's nothing wrong with a little Popeye's Chicken this time of year either!

80's Christmas Movie Weekend

Christmas time in 1989 brought us a movie about an eight year old girl (Rebecca Harrell) and how she nurses one of Santa's reindeers back to health and her relationship with her rough and widowed dad, Sam Elliott. It's the movie "Prancer."

the trailer...



Prancer

Directed by John D. Hancock
Produced by Raffaella De Laurentiis
Written by Greg Taylor
Starring Sam Elliott
Cloris Leachman
Rebecca Harrell
Abe Vigoda
Michael Constantine
Rutanya Alda
Ariana Richards
Music by Maurice Jarre
Studio Nelson Entertainment
Cineplex Odeon Films
Distributed by Orion Pictures
Release date(s) November 17, 1989
Running time 103 min
Language English

The Snow's Coming Down

Today's 80's Christmas video and song are easily one of my top two or three favorite 80's Christmas songs. I consider it a legendary Christmas performance by a legendary band still going strong to this day. Maybe this song needs to go out to a loved one of yours. The song originated in 1963 sung by Darlene Love, but for my money this two minutes and 18 seconds of Christmas singing pleasure is the best version. It's U2 with "Christmas (Baby Please Come Home)"...




Lyrics | U2 lyrics - Christmas (Baby, Please Come Home) lyrics

A Very Brady Excellent 80's Day

From 1969 through 1974, ABC aired a little family sitcom about a blended family. It consisted of a man and his three sons marrying a woman with three daughters. Maybe you've heard of it - it was called "The Brady Bunch." Sure the episodes were corny and the acting was horrible, but it was a staple of my childhood growing up. Well, much to my happiness, the Bradys reunited in 1988 to give us today's little Christmas gem. It was a made for tv movie called "A Very Brady Christmas."

The intro to the movie...



To the tune of "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas," enjoy some highlights from "A Very Brady Christmas"... remember when they all had to sing "O Come All Ye Faithful" to rescue Mike from the collapsed building at the end? Totally awesome! (I wish I could find that clip... somebody send me the link if you can find it)...



A Very Brady Christmas
Directed by Peter Baldwin
Produced by Barry M. Berg
Lloyd J. Schwartz
Written by Sherwood Schwartz
Lloyd J. Schwartz
Starring Florence Henderson
Robert Reed
Ann B. Davis
Maureen McCormick
Eve Plumb
Jennifer Runyon
Barry Williams
Christopher Knight
Mike Lookinland
Music by Laurence Juber
Cinematography Isidore Mankofsky
Distributed by CBS
Release date(s) December 18, 1988
Running time 100 minutes
Country United States
Language English

Finding a Christmas Tree

In 1987, Seattle based radio personality Bob Rivers came up with his own parody of "The 12 Days of Christmas" calling his version "The 12 Pains of Christmas." I think we all can relate somewhat...

On The First Day of Christmas My True Love Gave to Me A Beer

In 1982 those hosers from up north, the McKenzie Brothers, came up with a genius rendition to "The 12 Days of Christmas." Did you forget about it? I did until recently, so this is the first time this song has been included here at The Excellent 80's. Here are Bob and Doug McKenzie with their own unique version of "The 12 Days of Christmas"...

80's Christmas Commercials

To get you into the holiday spirit, here's a look back at a few holiday commercials from years ago...

You know you either had or really wanted these back when you were little...



And you know you want some Fruity Pepples everytime you see this commercial...

Every Single Day, Every Word You Say

No movie flashback for you this weekend as The Excellent 80's wraps up an entire week dedicated to the music videos of The Police from the 80's (ok, I brought you one from 1979). It was today's Police song that led me to purchase the cassette "Synchronicity" back in 7th grade, and wondering what the hell that word meant. It didn't matter because I loved this song. It's also the best stalker song of all-time, and a classic black and white video that just played on a loop day and night at MTV back in 1983-84. A song that spent eight weeks at #1 in the U.S. and four weeks at #1 in the UK, here is "Every Breath You Take"...




Lyrics | Police lyrics - Every Breath You Take lyrics

"Every Breath You Take"
Single by The Police
from the album Synchronicity
B-side "Murder By Numbers"
Released May 20, 1983
Format Vinyl record (7")
Recorded December 1982
Genre New Wave, soft rock
Length 4:14
Label A&M - AM 117
Writer(s) Sting
Producer The Police, Hugh Padgham
Certification Gold (RIAA[1], BPI)

U.S. Billboard Hot 100 peak: #1
UK peak: #1

You Consider Me the Young Apprentice

Today's video may be The Police's most visually appealing video. All the candles, all the jumping around - it's just crazy! But what would you expect from these three silly British boys? Of course the best part is when Sting takes one and knocks the circle of candles surrounding him over. I think I'll do that one day too.




Lyrics | Police lyrics - Wrapped Around Your Finger lyrics

"Wrapped Around Your Finger"
Single by The Police
from the album Synchronicity
B-side "Someone To Talk To"
Released

July 1983 (1983-07) UK
January 1984 (1984-01) US
Format 7", 12"
Recorded January, 1983
Genre New Wave
Length 5:13
Label A&M - AM 127
Writer(s) Sting
Producer The Police

U.S. Billboard Hot 100 peak: #8
UK peak: #7

Just a Castaway

OK, so today's song was released in 1979... close enough! We are on Thursday of our week dedicated to The Police. So, here is the bow-tie wearing Sting and The Police with "Message in a Bottle"...




Lyrics | Police lyrics - Message In Bottle lyrics

"Message in a Bottle"
Single by The Police
from the album Reggatta de Blanc
B-side Landlord
Released September, 1979
Format 7" single
Recorded 1979
Genre Rock, new wave, reggae
Length 3:50 (7" single edit)
4:50 (Full-length album version)
Label A&M - AMS 7474
Writer(s) Sting
Producer Stewart Copeland
Sting
Andy Summers
Certification Gold (BPI)

U.S. Billboard Hot 100 peak: #74
UK peak: #1

Young Teacher, the Subject of School Girl Fantasy

What the hell is Sting wearing in this video? Happy Wednesday everybody! Please enjoy the Grammy award winning "Don't Stand So Close to Me"...




Lyrics | Police lyrics - Don't Stand So Close To Me lyrics

"Don't Stand So Close to Me"

1980 single cover
Single by The Police
from the album Zenyattà Mondatta
B-side

"Friends"
"A Sermon" (U.S. 7")
Released 19 September 1980
January 1981 (U.S.)
Format vinyl record (7")
Recorded 1980
Genre New Wave
Length 4:03
Label A&M - AMS 7564
Writer(s) Sting
Producer Stewart Copeland,
Sting,
Andy Summers
Certification Gold (BPI)

U.S. Billboard Hot 100 peak: #10
UK peak: #1

I Resolved To Call Her Up A Thousand Times a Day

Oh, these crazy Police boys in today's video just clowning around and having a good ol' time I tell ya. It's the second day of our week dedicated to The Police. Here is "Every Little Thing She Does is Magic"...




Lyrics | Police lyrics - Every Little Thing She Does Is Magic lyrics

"Every Little Thing She Does Is Magic"
Single by The Police
from the album Ghost in the Machine
B-side Flexible Strategies
Released 2 November 1981
Format Vinyl record (7")
Recorded Le Studio, Morin Heights, Quebec, Canada, 1981
Genre Rock, New Wave
Length 4:05 (7" single edit)
4:16 (Full-length album version)
Label A&M - AMS 8174
Writer(s) Sting
Producer Stewart Copeland
Sting
Andy Summers

U.S. Billboard Hot 100 peak: #3
UK peak: #1

Don't Think Me Unkind

It is the season of giving and so as a gift to you for the next six days, I give you the gift of The Police and the band's various videos from the 80's. No need to thank me! Kicking it off this Monday is a video where it's obviously cold as evidenced by the snow and the red noses on our band members. As The Excellent 80's kicks off a week of Police songs and videos, I love the old school camcorder they break out for filming in this one. Really all I have left to say to you is "De Do Do Do De Da Da Da"




Lyrics | Police lyrics - De Do Do Do, De Da Da Da lyrics

"De Do Do Do, De Da Da Da"
Single by The Police
from the album Zenyattà Mondatta
B-side "A Sermon" (UK)
"Friends" (US)
Released 5 December 1980
Format Vinyl record (7")
Recorded 1980
Genre New Wave
Length 4:09
Label A&M - AMS 9110
Writer(s) Sting
Producer Stewart Copeland,
Sting,
Andy Summers

80's Movie Weekend

Total chick flick alert! There, you've been properly warned, but there's no other way to describe this weekend's hit movie that came out at the end of 1988. I don't think I've ever seen the whole thing through - just bits and pieces. And one time something flew in my eye and made it water during one of the more emotional moments of the movie. It was a critical success for Bette Midler and Barbara Hershey and was directed by Garry Marshall. Yep, you guessed it, it's "Beaches"...

the trailer...



the first three minutes of "Beaches"... ya know, to get you hooked on it so that you have to go rent it to see how it ends!



Beaches

Theatrical release poster
Directed by Garry Marshall
Produced by Bonnie Bruckheimer
Bette Midler
Margaret South
Written by Iris Rainer Dart (Novel)
Mary Agnes Donoghue
Starring Bette Midler
Barbara Hershey
John Heard
James Read
Spalding Gray
Lainie Kazan
Music by Georges Delerue
Cinematography Dante Spinotti
Editing by Richard Halsey
Distributed by Touchstone Pictures
Release date(s) December 21, 1988 (1988-12-21)
Running time 123 minutes
Country United States
Language English
Gross revenue $57,041,866

Of course someone has to die in these type of movies, and it's even more powerful when you can put a Grammy award-winning #1 hit sung by Bette Midler as the backing music for the scene. So, get out your kleenexes and listen to Bette belt out "It must have been cold there in my shadow..." with "Wind Beneath My Wings"...





"Wind Beneath My Wings"
Single by Bette Midler
from the album Beaches
Released June 1, 1989
Format CD single, cassette single
Genre Pop
Length 4:18 (Edit)
4:54 (Album Version)
Label Atlantic
Writer(s) Larry Henley and Jeff Silbar
Certification Gold (U.S.)

U.S. Billboard Hot 100 peak: #1

Red Roses, Temptation

Featured last month for the first time in The Excellent 80's, we're back with another hit from Taylor Dayne today. Ain't no room for no ugly people in the Taylor Dayne band! Well, except for the drummer, but just don't show him in the video. Here is the #2 hit off of her debut album "Don't Rush Me"...




Lyrics | Taylor Dayne lyrics - Don't Rush Me lyrics

"Don't Rush Me"

45 Single Cover
Single by Taylor Dayne
from the album Tell It to My Heart
B-side "In the Darkness"
Released 1989 (1989)
Format 45 single
Cassette single
UK CD single
12" Vinyl
Recorded 1987
Genre Pop
Length 3:47
Label Arista
Writer(s) Alexandra Forbes/Jeff Franzel
Producer Rick Wake

U.S. Billboard Hot 100 peak: #2

I Wanna Live It Up, Wanna Quit My Job

Today's video is another classic DLR video from 1986 from his "Eat 'Em and Smile" solo album. Though not as popular as "Yankee Rose," today's song received some radio airplay, but was definitely another solid effort in the video department by Dave and his crew. Here are the Picasso Brothers featuring DLR and Steve Vai on lead guitar with "Goin' Crazy"...


David Lee Roth - Goin' Crazy
Uploaded by jpdc11. - Watch more music videos, in HD!


Lyrics | David Lee Roth lyrics - Goin' Crazy lyrics

"Goin' Crazy"

by David Lee Roth
from the album: Eat 'Em And Smile
released: 1986

U.S. Billboard Hot 100 peak: #66
U.S. Mainstream Rock tracks: #12

Watching Every Motion in My Foolish Lover's Game

Today's song was one of the top hits from the movie "Top Gun" which we featured here in The Excellent 80's back in . Lead singer Terri Nunn has some seriously horrible 80's hair going on in our video today. It's the #1 hit from the L.A. band called Berlin with "Take My Breath Away"...


"Take My Breath Away" Berlin
Uploaded by Garglouik. - Explore more music videos.


Lyrics | Berlin lyrics - Take My Breath Away lyrics

"Take My Breath Away"
Single by Berlin
from the album Top Gun soundtrack and Count Three & Pray
B-side "Radar Radio"
Released 1986
Format 7", 12"
Recorded 1986
Genre Pop
Length 4:15
Label Columbia, Geffen
Writer(s) Giorgio Moroder, Tom Whitlock
Producer Giorgio Moroder
Certification Gold (US)

U.S. Billboard Hot 100 peak: #1

Don't Call Him Shirley.

After 82 years, Leslie Nielsen passed away on Sunday leaving a legacy of solid roles in the 60's and 70's and then hitting newfound popularity in the 80's with hits like "Airplane," and "The Naked Gun" series. We salute you, Lt. Frank Drebin and the hilarious moments you gave us throughout your life like this classic umpire scene from the first Naked Gun...



or the singing of our National Anthem as Enrique Pollazzo...



Finally, a tribute to The Naked Gun and Airplane featuring many classic Nielsen scenes...



R.I.P. Leslie Nielsen

Just Touch My Cheek Before You Leave Me, Baby

The Juice is loose today in The Excellent 80's! No, not the convict Juice, but the sweet, majestic Juice with the great voice. From 1981 here is Juice Newton, born Judith Kay Newton in New Jersey in 1952, with the boring video to "Angel of the Morning"


JUICE NEWTON - ANGEL OF THE MORNING
Uploaded by rvdgu2006. - Explore more music videos.


Lyrics | Juice Newton lyrics - Angel Of The Morning lyrics

"Angel of the Morning"

Single by Juice Newton
from the album Juice
B-side "Headin' for a Heartache"
Released 1981
Format 7" (45 rpm)
Genre Country pop, Adult contemporary
Length 3:49
Label Capitol 4976
Writer(s) Chip Taylor
Producer Richard Landis

U.S. Billboard Hot 100 peak: #4
U.S. Adult Contemporary peak: #1

80's Movie Weekend

If you can't lower Heaven, then raise hell! That was the popular phrase said by Michael J. Fox in this 1987 movie that was fair in my opinion. Also starring Gena Rowlands and Joan Jett as Fox's musically talented sister, here is your 80's movie weekend flashback to the film "Light of Day"

The trailer...



a warped clip from the beginning of the movie...



Light of Day

Directed by Paul Schrader
Produced by Keith Barish
Rob Cohen
Written by Paul Schrader
Starring Michael J. Fox
Gena Rowlands
Joan Jett
Music by Thomas Newman
Cinematography John Bailey
Editing by Jacqueline Cambas
Rose Kuo
Jill Savitt
Distributed by TriStar Pictures
Release date(s) February 6, 1987
Running time 107 min.
Country United States
Language English
Gross revenue $10,490,000

The title song, sung by Joan Jett (and somewhat by Michael J. Fox) and performed by their fictitious band the Barbusters, was written by Bruce Springsteen...




Lyrics | Joan Jett And The Blackhearts lyrics - Light Of Day lyrics

U.S. Billboard Hot 100 peak: #33

Well, She's Always Been a Good Good Girl

Today's 80's flashback takes you back to 1983 and an underrated Eddie Money song. This guy put out some great music in the late 70's through the late 80's and today's video is one of his minor hits reaching only #54 on the Billboard Hot 100. Playing a cop in the video, which was actually Money's job before becoming a full time musician, here "The Big Crash."




Lyrics | Eddie Money lyrics - The Big Crash lyrics


"The Big Crash"
Single by Eddie Money
from the album Where's the Party?
B-side "Backtrack"
Released 1983
Format 7" single
Genre Rock
Label Columbia

U.S. Billboard Hot 100 peak: #54

Happy Thanksgiving

I am thankful for all of you that check in here on a regular basis and if Ronald Reagan were still alive he would be frequenting this site I'm sure. Since he's not, but thanks to the magic of the internet and youtube, here is our former President with a brief Thanksgiving message for you all...



Have a great day and be thankful!

80's Movie Weekday

OK, technically this movie was released in November of 1990, but some part of it (the writing, casting, production, etc.) had to have happened in the 80's, right? See how I find the loopholes. Anyway, it's close enough, and for many of you is a must watch this time of year just out of tradition. Yes, it's that crazy McAllister family who leaves poor little Kevin "Home Alone." Hilarity ensues.

Another great late John Hughes production, here is the trailer...



Joe Pesci and Daniel Stern were great bumbling burgulars. Harry! I've reached the top...




Home Alone

Directed by Chris Columbus
Produced by John Hughes
Written by John Hughes
Starring Macaulay Culkin
Joe Pesci
Daniel Stern
John Heard
Catherine O'Hara
Roberts Blossom
Music by John Williams
Cinematography Julio Macat
Editing by Raja Gosnell
Distributed by 20th Century Fox
Release date(s) November 16, 1990 (1990-11-16)
Running time 103 minutes
Country United States
Language English
Budget $18,000,000 (estimated)
Gross revenue $476,684,675 (worldwide)[1]
Followed by Home Alone 2: Lost in New York

Say You Will, Say You Won't

Today's video was an attempt to be all artsy with the black and white footage of a bunch of faces and parts of the faces and lighting and shadows, and wow what a cluster of a mess. One word for this video - boring. At least the song wasn't half bad. It's the British-American rock band Foreigner with their top 10 hit from 1987 "Say You Will"...




Lyrics | Foreigner lyrics - Say You Will lyrics

"Say You Will"
Single by Foreigner
from the album Inside Information
B-side "A Night to Remember"
Released December 5, 1987
Format 7", 12", CD single
Genre Soft Rock, Arena Rock
Length 3:59
Label Atlantic
Writer(s) Mick Jones and Lou Gramm
Producer Mick Jones and Frank Filipetti

U.S. Billboard Hot 100 peak: #6

Another Holiday

Holiday season is upon us. Everywhere you turn, it's turkey this and turkey that as everyone gets prepared for Thanksgiving and then Christmas. So, it's only fitting that the Excellent 80's bring you this little lost classic from 1987 from a band made up mostly of Australians based in Berlin called The Other Ones. Here is their 15 minutes of fame called "Holiday"...




Lyrics | The Other Ones lyrics - Holiday lyrics

"Holiday"

by The Other Ones
from the album: The Other Ones
released: 1986

80's Movie Weekend

Helloooo again.... hello. Today's 80's movie flashback weekend takes you back nearly 30 years exactly for the acting debut of Neil Diamond. Diamond was blasted for his acting or lack of in this movie that also starred Desi Arnaz and Sir Laurence Olivier. Check out today's movie feature - "The Jazz Singer"...

the trailer...




The soundtrack was a huge success and became Neil Diamond's biggest selling album in the United States, selling over 5 million copies there and reaching #3 on the pop albums chart. Three of the songs from the album became Top 10 pop singles, with "Love on the Rocks," "Hello Again" and "America" reaching #2, #6, and #8 respectively.

Here is "Love on the Rocks." Pour me a drink and I'll tell you some lies...




Lyrics | Neil Diamond lyrics - Love On The Rocks lyrics

Neil wraps it up with dad in attendance by performing his classic "America"...




Lyrics | Neil Diamond lyrics - America lyrics

The Jazz Singer

Directed by Richard Fleischer
Sidney J. Furie
Produced by Jerry Leider
Written by Herbert Baker
Starring Neil Diamond
Laurence Olivier
Lucie Arnaz
Music by Gilbert Bécaud
Neil Diamond
Leonard Rosenman
Richard Bennett
Alan E. Lindgren
Cinematography Isidore Mankofsky
Editing by Frank J. Urioste
Maury Winetrobe
Distributed by Associated Film Distribution
Release date(s) December 19, 1980 (1980-12-19)
Running time 115 minutes
Country United States
Language English
Gross revenue $27,118,000

I Feel The Night Explode When We're Together

Wow, I'm over three years into this blog that just kind of started out as a way to post a few of my favorite 80's videos and this is the first time we've featured today's hottie here. In 1987, this then 25 year old hit it big in the dance clubs and then on the charts with the debut song from the album of the same name. Her birth name was Leslie Wunderman, but you and I know her best as Taylor Dayne. Here is "Tell It to My Heart"...




Lyrics | Taylor Dayne lyrics - Tell It To My Heart lyrics

"Tell It to My Heart"
Single by Taylor Dayne
from the album Tell It to My Heart
B-side Instrumental or remix
Released 1987
Format Cassette single, 7" single, 12" single, CD single
Recorded 1987
Genre Dance-pop, Freestyle
Length 3:41
Label Arista
Writer(s) Seth Swirsky / Ernie Gold
Producer Ric Wake

U.S. Billboard Hot 100 peak: #7
UK peak: #3

Well I'm An Axe Grinder, Piledriver

Love today's hard rock song from the band known as Quiet Riot. This album was one of the first hard rock cassettes I ever bought back in 1983. I don't think my parents realized that this album had a song called "Love's a Bitch" on it. Probably not appropriate music for a 6th grader, but hey this hard rock music was sweeping the country at the time. "Metal Health" sold six million albums thanks largely to "Cum On Feel the Noize" and today's mental patient escape video - "Bang Your Head (Metal Health)"... Bang your head and raise the dead!




Lyrics | Quiet Riot lyrics - Metal Health lyrics

"Metal Health"
Single by Quiet Riot
from the album Metal Health
Released 1983
Format 12" and 7" vinyl
Recorded 1982
Genre Heavy metal
Label Pasha
Producer Spencer Proffer

U.S. Billboard Hot 100 peak: #31

Fab Five Freddy Told Me Everybody's Fly

Yesterday we brought you Blondie's "Call Me" and so I thought I'd follow it up today with another Blondie hit from 1980 and the same album. Here is Debbie Harry doing a little rapping in today's video. Featuring Fab Five Freddy, and a host of characters including a ballerina, an Indian, and a bunch of dudes sporting some sweet high tech shades at the end of the video. Here is "Rapture"...


BLONDIE-RAPTURE
Uploaded by pierrot77. - Music videos, artist interviews, concerts and more.


Lyrics | Blondie lyrics - Rapture lyrics

"Rapture"
Single by Blondie
from the album Autoamerican
Released January 1981
Format 7" single, 12" single
Recorded 1980
Genre Disco, Pop rap
Length 6:33 (US)
4:57 (UK)
Label Chrysalis Records
Writer(s) Deborah Harry
Chris Stein
Producer Mike Chapman
Certification Gold (US), Silver (UK)

Color Me Your Color, Baby

Today's 1980 hit was one of the hottest bands in the land in 1980 with one of the hottest lead singers of her time. Many a man fell in love in the late 70's and early 80's with Debbie Harry. Here is her band Blondie with their biggest hit "Call Me"...




Lyrics | Blondie lyrics - Call Me lyrics

"Call Me"
Single by Blondie
from the album American Gigolo
Released February 1980 (US)
April 1980 (UK)
Format Vinyl 7" & 12" single
Recorded August 1979
Genre New Wave, hard rock
Length 3:32 (7" version)
8:04 (LP version)
Label Polydor Records
Chrysalis Records
Salsoul Records
Writer(s) Debbie Harry, Giorgio Moroder
Producer Giorgio Moroder

U.S. Billboard Hot 100 peak: #1
UK peak: #1

Rollin With My Posse is the Only Way To Go

Most notably known for his dance club hit of the early 90's called "Baby Got Back," Seattle based Sir Mix-A-Lot debuted in 1988 with his album "Swass." On that debut album, Mix-A-Lot gave us today's rap classic about a street in his native Seattle and about rolling with his posse. Here is "Posse On Broadway"




Lyrics | Sir Mix-A-Lot lyrics - My Posse's On Broadway lyrics

"Posse on Broadway"
Single by Sir Mix-a-Lot
from the album Swass
Released 1988
Format 7", 12", Cassette single, CD single
Genre Hip-hop
Label Nastymix Records
Writer(s) Sir Mix-a-Lot
Producer Sir Mix-a-Lot

U.S. Billboard Hot 100 peak: #70
U.S. R&B/Rap singles: #44

80's Movie Weekend

I never saw today's "scary" feature, but I have a feeling I would have laughed more than I would have been scared... and that's just from checking out the trailer to this horrific comedy/horror film... set at a high school in New Jersey located very close to a nuclear plant, here is the cult classic "Class of Nuke 'Em High"...

the trailer...



Class of Nuke 'Em High

Directed by Richard W. Haines
Michael Herz
Samuel Weil
Produced by Michael Herz
Lloyd Kaufman
James Treadwell
Written by Lloyd Kaufman
Richard W. Haines
Mark Rudnitsky
Stuart Strutin
Starring Janelle Brady
Gil Brenton
Robert Prichard
Pat Ryan
Music by Ethan Hurt, Title Track
link title
Michael Latlanzi
Cinematography Michael Mayers
Editing by Richard W. Haines
Distributed by Troma Entertainment
Release date(s) December 12, 1986)
Running time 85 min.
Country United States
Language English
Budget $2 million (est)
Followed by Class of Nuke 'Em High II (1991)
Class of Nuke 'Em High III (1994)

We Roll Tonight to the Guitar Bite

Filmed in Landover, Maryland, today's popular rock anthem was the title track off of the Australian band AC/DC's 8th studio album. It's the unmistakable guitar of Angus Young and the piercing sound of Brian Johnson on lead vocals as AC/DC wants you to know "For Those About to Rock (We Salute You)"...




Lyrics | Ac Dc lyrics - For Those About To Rock (We Salute You) lyrics

"For Those About to Rock (We Salute You)"
Single by AC/DC
from the album For Those About to Rock We Salute You
B-side "Let There Be Rock" (live)
T.N.T. (live, US)
Released 1982
March 22, 1982 (US)
Format 7 inch
Recorded 1981
Genre Hard rock
Length 5:44
Label Atlantic
Writer(s) Angus Young,
Malcolm Young,
Brian Johnson
Producer Robert John "Mutt" Lange

What In the World is Happening Here?

Seriously, what is happening in this video? Lionel Ritchie is way over-acting, but thanks to some nifty camera work, he appears to be literally dancing on the ceiling in this video! I love the drummer's hair in the video as well, but personally speaking watching this video for too long tends to make me dizzy, but the best part is the cameo by Rodney Dangerfield at the end.




Lyrics | Lionel Richie lyrics - Dancing On The Ceiling lyrics

"Dancing on the Ceiling"
Single by Lionel Richie
from the album Dancing on the Ceiling
B-side Love Will Find a Way
Released June 19, 1986
Format CD single, 7" single, 12" single
Recorded Summer 1985
Genre Pop, Adult contemporary, New Wave, rock
Length 4:21
Label Motown
Writer(s) Lionel Richie, Carlos Rios, Michael Frenchik
Producer Lionel Richie, James Anthony Carmichael

U.S. Billboard Hot 100 peak: #2

It Seems True Love is So Rare

Although "There's Something About You" is their most popular and most recognizable hit, today's video and song produced a top 20 hit in the UK for the band Level 42, but didn't crack the charts in the U.S. apparently. It has a very Tears For Fears feel to it, and it's not a bad song at all. Here is the British group Level 42 with "Leaving Me Now"...




Lyrics | Level 42 lyrics - Leaving Me Now lyrics

"Leaving me Now"
Single by Level 42
from the album World Machine
B-side I Sleep on My Heart
Released 1985
Format 7", 12"
Recorded 1985
Genre Pop rock
Length 5:03
Label Polydor Records
Writer(s) Mark King, Phil Gould, Wally Badarou
Producer Level 42

UK peak: #15

Papa I Know You're Going to Be Upset

In June of 1986, Madonna sent out a message to all papa's around the world - don't preach! She's keeping her baby, alright? Love that Danny Aiello gets to be papa in the video. Madonna is looking fine, but I didn't really dig the short blond look that she sports for this video. Here is the material girl's 4th #1 hit - "Papa Don't Preach"...




Lyrics | Madonna lyrics - Papa Don't Preach lyrics

"Papa Don't Preach"
Single by Madonna
from the album True Blue
B-side "Pretender"
Released June 11, 1986
Format 7", 12", CD single, CD Video
Recorded 1985-1986
Genre Dance-pop
Length 4:29
Label Sire, Warner Bros.
Writer(s) Brian Elliot, additional lyrics by Madonna
Producer Madonna, Stephen Bray

U.S. Billboard Hot 100 peak: #1

What Did Her Daddy Do?

Apparently one of rock's best bands is on a permanent leave because someone wants to be a judge on American Idol among other things. Anyway, back when they were banging out hits in the 70's, 80's, and 90's today's band was one of the best in the business. Today's featured video was released in 1989 as part of their "Pump" album and the song went all the way to #4 on the Billboard charts and produced a Grammy win for the band. Here is Aerosmith with "Janie's Got a Gun"...




Lyrics | Aerosmith lyrics - Janie's Got A Gun lyrics

"Janie's Got a Gun"
Single by Aerosmith
from the album Pump
Released November 8, 1989
Format Cassette, CD
Recorded 1989
Genre Hard rock
Length 05:33
Label Geffen
Writer(s) Steven Tyler, Tom Hamilton
Producer Bruce Fairbairn

U.S. Billboard Hot 100 peak: #4

80's Movie Weekend

"The funniest comedy of the year" it was not. As is the case with most sequels they rarely live up to the first one and that was definitely the case for Airplane II The Sequel. Last week we brought you the trailer and some of the funniest scenes from the original. This week, we bring you the trailer and a few of the scenes that attempt to be funny.

the trailer...



a compilation of some of the better scenes...



Airplane II: The Sequel

Directed by Ken Finkleman
Produced by Howard W. Koch
Written by Ken Finkleman
Starring Julie Hagerty
Robert Hays
Lloyd Bridges
Chad Everett
Peter Graves
Rip Torn
Stephen Stucker
Wendy Phillips
Sonny Bono
William Shatner
Music by Elmer Bernstein
Richard Hazard
Cinematography Joe Biroc
Editing by Tina Hirsch
Distributed by Paramount Pictures
Release date(s) December 10, 1982
Running time 85 min
Country United States
Language English
Preceded by Airplane!

It's Like a Full Force Gale

Today's video features the deep raspy voice of Mr. Bob Seger. From his 13th studio album "Like a Rock" (this man cranked out the albums and the hits back in the late 70's and early 80's), here is the top 20 single "American Storm" just featuring he and his band jamming...




Lyrics | Bob Seger lyrics - American Storm lyrics

"American Storm"

by Bob Seger
from the album: "Like a Rock"
released: 1986

You Have Been Single for a Long Time

Early last month as part of this blog's "Soul Train Saturdays" we featured The SOS Band with arguably their biggest hit "Take Your Time (Do It Right)", and today here's another S.O.S. Band hit a few years later. Though not as successful, the yellow outfits they're wearing are still pretty sweet and the video is pure 80's. From Atlanta, Georgia, here is The S.O.S. (Sounds of Success) Band with "Just the Way You Like It"...




Lyrics | S.O.S Band lyrics - Just The Way You Like It lyrics

"Just the Way You Like It"

by The S.O.S. Band
from the album: Just the Way You Like It
released: 1984

U.S. Billboard Hot 100 peak: #64
U.S. R&B charts peak: #6

There I Was Completely Wasting

When I think of today's song, I always think of the Beavis and Butthead episode where sing today's chorus while creating more mischief. Those crazy kids, huh-huh, uh, huh-huh, huh-huh. It's considered one of VH1's greatest 40 metal songs of all-time. Here is the English band, Judas Priest, robbing a bank with guitars as weapons and they are definitely "Breaking the Law"...




Lyrics | Judas Priest lyrics - Breaking The Law lyrics

"Breaking the Law"
Single by Judas Priest
from the album British Steel
Released 1980
Recorded January- February 1980
Startling Studios
Ascot, England
Genre Heavy metal, hard rock
Length 2:35
Label Columbia
Writer(s) Rob Halford
K.K. Downing
Glenn Tipton
Producer Tom Allom

The Whispers in the Morning

Most people will think of today's song as the #1 hit for Celine Dion in 1993. What most people don't realize is that this song was originally co-written and recorded by Brooklyn native Jennifer Rush in 1984. The song stalled out at #57 in the U.S. but bounded all the way to #1 in the UK where it remained for five weeks. Here is the video for Jennifer Rush and "The Power of Love"...




Lyrics | Jennifer Rush lyrics - The Power Of Love lyrics

"The Power of Love"

Single by Jennifer Rush
from the album Jennifer Rush
B-side "I See A Shadow (Not A Fantasy)"
Released 1985
Format 7" single
Recorded 1984
CBS Studios International
(Frankfurt am Main)
Genre Pop
Length 4:20
Label CBS
Writer(s) Gunther Mende, Candy DeRouge, Jennifer Rush, Mary Susan Applegate
Producer Gunther Mende, Candy DeRouge

U.S. Billboard Hot 100 peak: #57
UK peak: #1

Baby When I Met You There Was Peace Unknown

Welcome to the month of November!

Forget about the more recent country cross-over superstars like Garth Brooks, Faith Hill, and Kenny Chesney. Back in the early to mid 80's, Kenny Rogers was the man who killed it on the country charts and then managed to find himself on the pop charts from time to time as well. Today's live performance features two of country's all-time biggest stars with their famous duet from 1983. It's Dolly Parton and Kenny Rogers with their #1 hit not only on the country charts but on the Billboard charts as well - "Islands in the Stream"...




Lyrics | Kenny Rogers lyrics - Islands In The Stream lyrics

Single by Kenny Rogers featuring Dolly Parton
from the album Eyes That See in the Dark
Released August 1983 (U.S.)
Genre Country, Pop
Length 4:08
Label RCA
Writer(s) Barry, Robin and Maurice Gibb
Producer Barry Gibb
Certification 2× Platinum (US)

U.S. Billboard Hot 100 peak: #1
U.S. Country charts peak: #1