80’s at 8 Rockturnal With Scotty B Tuesday 06-20-23
Tonight’s 80’s at 8 was bands with an X in their name theme. And of course the first band that came to my mind was INXS. They kicked off the 80’s at 8 with “Kiss the Dirt (Falling Down the Mountain)”. It’s on their 1985 album “Listen Like Thieves.” It is loaded with infectious melodies, captivating rhythms, and thought-provoking lyrics, this record solidified the Australian band’s place in the global music scene.
Released on October 14, 1985, “Listen Like Thieves” was INXS’ fifth studio album. Produced by Chris Thomas, renowned for his work with acts like The Beatles, Pink Floyd, and The Sex Pistols, the album showcased a shift in the band’s sound, embracing a more polished and radio-friendly approach while retaining their signature rock edge.
The tracklist boasted ten captivating songs, including the chart-topping single “What You Need,” which became the band’s breakthrough hit. The album also featured other notable tracks such as “This Time,” “Kiss the Dirt (Falling Down the Mountain),” and “Listen Like Thieves,” each showcasing the band’s musical versatility and innovative songwriting.
Upon its release, “Listen Like Thieves” made an immediate impact on the charts, both in Australia and internationally. The album peaked at #3 on the Australian Albums Chart, solidifying INXS’ position as one of Australia’s most successful rock acts. In the United States, the album climbed to an impressive number 11 on the US 200 album chart, marking the band’s first significant breakthrough in the American market. I vividly remember getting this album on cassette with lot’s of other alums through Columbia House Records back in the day. You know, when you send in a penny and get to chose like ten albums/ cassettes or something like that. Then they hook you and you ended up going waaaay overboard and owing them like a hundred dollars or more. Well, I think I still owe them at the least a hundred and twenty dollars. Thank God they are not in business anymore! LOL!
Driven by the success of “What You Need” and the album’s infectious appeal, “Listen Like Thieves” achieved impressive sales worldwide. The Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) certified the album as Platinum, signifying sales of over one million copies in the United States. In Canada, the album reached Double Platinum status, reflecting sales exceeding 200,000 units.
“Listen Like Thieves” received Gold certification in both the United Kingdom and Australia, highlighting its commercial triumph in these markets. The album’s critical acclaim, combined with its widespread popularity, cemented INXS’ status as a force to be reckoned with in the international music scene.
From its chart-topping hit “What You Need” to the album’s diverse range of tracks, the record captivated listeners around the globe. With its infectious melodies, tight musicianship, and thought-provoking lyrics, “Listen Like Thieves” solidified INXS’ status as one of the most influential rock acts of the 1980s.
The music video for “Kiss the Dirt ( Falling Down the Mountain) has plenty of dirt in it as the band is performing out in what seems to be an Australian desert? Frontman Michael Hutchence is rockin the Dad Jeans with a black T shirt. That dude looked good in anything. The ladies loved them some Michael! You can check it out below:
The second track in the bands with an X in their name 80’s at 8 was “Making Plans For Nigel” by XTC, It is from 1979 but, I think it is close enough to 1980. Throughout music history, certain songs have managed to capture the spirit of an era while resonating with audiences across generations. XTC’s iconic track “Making Plans for Nigel” is undoubtedly one of those timeless anthems. Released as part of their influential 1979 album “Drums and Wires,” the song not only catapulted the English band to new heights but also became a cultural touchstone.
“Drums and Wires,” released on August 17, 1979, marked a pivotal moment for XTC. Produced by Steve Lillywhite, who would go on to work with U2 and The Rolling Stones, the album showcased the band’s transition from their earlier punk sound to a more refined and innovative new wave style.
“Making Plans for Nigel,” struck a chord with listeners worldwide. The song climbed to # 17 on the UK Singles Chart, earning XTC their first top-20 hit in their home country. It was later learned that a computer error by the people who compiled the charts had caused the song to go down on the charts when it had actually gone up! In the United States, the song reached number 70 on the Hot 100, garnering attention from American audiences and further solidifying XTC’s growing international fanbase.
XTC’s “Making Plans for Nigel” and its accompanying album, “Drums and Wires,” remain an essential part of music history, representing the band’s artistic growth and their significant contribution to the new wave genre. The album’s impact, coupled with the chart success of “Making Plans for Nigel,” showcased XTC’s ability to craft thought-provoking music that resonated with audiences far beyond its initial release.
The music video is definitely a 1980 style video. It features the band performing the song while a man that is a patient in a mental hospital is getting some crazy ass therapy from a therapist who seems to be the one who needs to be in the hospital. You can check it out below:.
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