80’s At 8 Rockturnal With Scotty B Monday 05-15-23
UNITED STATES – JANUARY 01: USA Photo of B52’S, B 52’s (Photo by Janette Beckman/Redferns)
Tonight’s 80’s at 8 started with “Private Idaho” by The B-52’s. The B-52’s, known for their unique blend of new wave, punk, and rock, brought a fresh and eccentric sound to the music scene in the late 1970s and early 1980s. Among their eclectic repertoire, “Private Idaho” stands out as a quirky and infectious track that captures the band’s offbeat charm and lyrical inventiveness. Released in 1980 as part of their third studio album, “Wild Planet,” “Private Idaho” catapulted The B-52’s into the mainstream while showcasing their ability to craft catchy and unconventional tunes.
“Private Idaho” is featured on The B-52’s’ second studio album, “Wild Planet,” released on August 27, 1980. The album, produced by Chris Blackwell continued the band’s unique blend of new wave, punk, and rock. “Wild Planet” achieved critical acclaim and commercial success, reaching number 18 on the Billboard 200 chart. The album’s energetic and danceable tracks, including “Private Idaho,” contributed to the band’s rising popularity and helped solidify their place in the alternative music landscape. “Private Idaho” exemplifies the offbeat and vibrant spirit that defines The B-52’s’ music. The song opens with an infectious guitar riff that immediately grabs the listener’s attention. The band’s trademark call-and-response vocal style, featuring the dynamic interplay between Fred Schneider, Kate Pierson, and Cindy Wilson, adds a unique texture to the track. The quirky and poetic lyrics, full of playful wordplay and obscure references, further highlight the band’s unconventional approach to songwriting.”Private Idaho” became an instant fan favorite and an anthem of alternative culture. It stands as a quirky gem that continues to captivate listeners, showcasing The B-52’s’ enduring legacy as one of the most unique and influential bands of their time. The music video has the band performing :Private Idaho” with a backdrop that looks like it was taken from the 70’s show The Partridge Family. It has a 70’s vibe that has flowed into the beginning of the 80’s for sure. Check it out below:
The second track in tonight’s 80’s at 8 was from one of my favorite all female 80’s band The Go Go’s. I was in love with Belinda Carlisle! The Go Go’s track that I played was “Turn to You”. “Turn to You” stands as a spirited and uplifting anthem that exemplifies the band’s signature sound. Released in 1984 as part of their album “Talk Show,” “Turn to You” not only climbed the charts but also showcased the Go-Go’s continued evolution as musicians and songwriters. It achieved significant success on the Billboard charts, and that demonstrated the widespread appeal of the Go-Go’s’ music and their ability to craft infectious pop-rock anthems that resonated with audiences. “Turn to You” is featured on the Go-Go’s’ third studio album, “Talk Show,” released on March 19, 1984. The album, produced by Martin Rushent, marked a departure from the band’s earlier punk-influenced sound, showcasing a more polished and mature musical direction. “Talk Show” reached number 18 on the Billboard 200 chart and received positive reviews for its catchy melodies and strong songwriting. With its infectious energy, empowering lyrics, and vibrant melodies, “Turn to You” remains a beloved classic in the Go-Go’s’ discography and a testament to their enduring legacy as trailblazers for women in rock music. The music video for “Turn to You” by The Go-Go’s has the band playing duel rolls . Performing on stage looking like an all male band except one Go Go is in a dress. They also play dates for well to do men at some kind of high society party. It also stars then up and coming actor Rob Lowe. Check it out below:
