80’s at 8 Friday 3-24-23 Rockturnal With Scotty B
The first track on tonight’s 80’s at 8 came from U2’s 1988 album Rattle and Hum. I was inspired to rock U2 after watching their documentary A Sort of Homecoming with David Letterman on Disney Plus last weekend. I highly recommend it. My wife and I watched it last Sunday morning. Dave Letterman hangs with Bono and the Edge in Dublin Ireland and they dive into U2’s history and Dave visits local businesses and tourist attractions and Bono and The Edge perform some U2 songs with a symphony. It’s funny, serious , and educational. It show’s that Bono and the Edge have not lost a step and showcases just how amazingly talented they are. I rocked God Part 2 tonight, it’s a song that is an answer to John Lennon’s 1970 song God. God Part 2 is a slower tempo rocker that explores themes of faith, doubt, and the complexities of belief. Bono’s lyrics are filled with biting sarcasm and irony, as he takes aim at religious leaders who use their positions for personal gain and the faithful who blindly follow them. He declares, “Don’t believe the devil, I don’t believe his book / But the truth is not the same without the lies he made up.”In many ways, “God Part II” reflects U2’s larger philosophy of music and activism. The band has long been known for their commitment to social justice and their willingness to use their platform to raise awareness about issues such as poverty, war, and human rights. “God Part II” is a powerful example of this commitment, as it challenges listeners to question their own beliefs and embrace a more compassionate, inclusive worldview. The album Rattle and Hum is a Hybrid Live /Studio album and a companion Doc Rock film directed by Phil Joanuo. Rattle and Hum was produced by legendary producer Jimmy Lovine. It reached #1 on the Billboard 200 album chart and was certified 5 time Platinum in the US. God Part 2 reached #8 on the Billboard Mainstream Rock Chart. You can check out U2 performing God Part 2 here:
The second track in tonight’s 80’s at 8 is a track that captures the youthful energy and rebellious spirit of punk rock. Released in 1981, the song is a celebration of staying up late, partying with friends, and pushing back against the expectations and constraints of society. It ‘s Up All Night by The Boomtown Rats. Up All night is from The Boomtown Rats 1981 album Mondo Bongo. It was their last album to be recorded as six-piece band, as guitarist Gary Cott left the band shortly after the album’s release. You can check out the music video for Up All Night by The Boomtown Rats Here: