My Obsession with Samantha Fox's 1987 Album: A Nostalgic Dive

Okay, let's get real for a second. Remember that moment when a song just totally grabbed you, and you knew, just knew, you had to have the whole album? That was me with Samantha Fox and her 1987 self-titled album. It wasn't just about "Touch Me" anymore; this was a whole new level of musical infatuation. I first got a taste of Samantha Fox when “Touch Me” was playing almost nonstop on Q-100 and fell in love with her, but her second album? That's where the real obsession began. When Jive Records dropped it in July 1987, things changed for me. This album wasn't just a collection of songs; it was a time capsule, a memory bank and honestly, a huge part of my young life.

This album made waves, too. It hit No. 22 in the UK, No. 51 in the US, No. 41 in Canada, No. 86 in Australia, and No. 16 in Germany. That's a pretty big deal! But for me, it wasn't about the charts. It was about the feeling.

I distinctly recall the days at daycamp when I would find myself at Skateland with my friend Jenny Reeves. I would request the song be played a few times during skating sessions and we’d belt out “Naughty Girls” at the top of our lungs, mostly off-key, but who cared? We were just kids, around 12 or 13 and that song was an anthem in the soundtrack of my life for a while. Every trip to the store turned into a mission. I’d beg my parents for the tape because I needed to hear all those songs that radio wasn’t playing. My friend Stig, bless his soul, gifted me a copy that he intended to sell at school or his flea market side hustle. Little did I know that the album version was different from the extended version they played at the skating rink, which sent me on another quest!

I remember spending countless hours in my room, playing that tape, trying to drift off to sleep. I’ve always struggled with insomnia and music has always been my go-to in hours of need. It cleared my head and sometimes, the songs would spin into these elaborate dreams, way cooler than any music video on MTV. I still wonder, was I the only one who experienced that? Anyway, I adored every single track. Over the years, remastered and expanded versions of the album have been released. Of course, I snagged them all, but nothing beats the original for me.

After the success of her first album, Touch Me (1986), Samantha Fox jumped back into the studio. Her label was worried, apparently, that the second album didn’t have any hits. So, they got Stock Aitken Waterman to write “Nothing’s Gonna Stop Me Now.” That definitely helped! But Full Force, who were working with Lisa Lisa then, also gave her a major hit with “Naughty Girls (Need Love Too).” The album also had other solid singles like “I Surrender (To the Spirit of the Night),” “I Promise You (Get Ready),” and “True Devotion.”

There's also this interesting tidbit about Jim Lea and Noddy Holder from Slade writing “Shooting Me Down” for the album. Jive wanted them to, and they made a demo, but Samantha didn't get to record it due to time constraints.

Track Listing Deep Dive: Let's Get Real About These Gems!

• "I Surrender (To the Spirit of the Night)" - 3:56: Okay, confession time, this was and still is the one for me. Seriously, why didn't this get more airtime? Pure magic!
• "I Promise You" - 3:54: Such a sweet track. Still holds up!
• "Naughty Girls" - 5:10: Ah, yes! The song that sealed my fate. Totally head over heels after this one. It is also THE big one from the album.
• "True Devotion" - 4:37: Ballad alert! And not just any ballad. This one hits deep. Seriously, Cars "Drive" vibes, anyone?
• "(I Can't Get No) Satisfaction" - 5:36: A bold cover! Gotta respect the guts.
• "Nothing's Gonna Stop Me Now" - 3:43: You know you sang along.
• "If Music Be the Food of Love" - 4:49: Such a lovely, dreamy track. Perfect for zoning out.
• "That Sensation" - 4:19: This one's got that undeniable 80s energy. Can't help but move!
• "Dream City" - 4:55: Takes me to another world. Just close your eyes and drift.
• "The Best Is Yet to Come" - 4:50: Ending on a high note! Optimistic and catchy.

So, that's my deep dive into Samantha Fox's 1987 album. It's more than just music; it's a snapshot of my childhood, a collection of memories and a reminder of simpler times. I'm curious, did anyone else have that one album that just stuck with them? Any Samantha Fox fans out there who remember those days? Share your stories in the comments below! I always love hearing from fellow music enthusiasts and nostalgia buffs. Your thoughts and memories really make these discussions so much fun. If you've enjoyed reading about my musical journey, and feel inclined to show your appreciation in any way, feel free to get in touch! It’s all about sharing the love of music, right?

Lost in the Blue: My 80s Debbie Gibson Obsession (A Deep Dive)

Hey everyone! Let's take a vibrant trip back to the late 80s. Picture this: huge hair, neon EVERYTHING and the sound of infectious pop music filling the air. For me, one album perfectly encapsulates that era: Debbie Gibson's "Out of the Blue." Today, let's dive deep into this iconic record. I remember wanting this album with every fiber of my being. My mom, bless her heart, suggested taping it off the radio. But you guys get it, right? Radio only plays singles! I needed the whole experience: the artwork, the hidden gems and being able to hit play whenever I wanted.

My journey began with Debbie Gibson's "Only In My Dreams" video on VH1. What was super intriguing was that when they showed the video, there was no album title displayed! It was like a mystery I needed to solve. "Out of the Blue" officially dropped on August 18, 1987, but I didn't get my hands on a copy until my friend "Stig" shared a dubbed cassette a year later. Even then, the music still felt fresh and amazing. Over the years, I have purchased the album on cassette, CD as well as vinyl.

So, let's explore the musical landscape of "Out of the Blue." All tracks were written by the incredibly talented Deborah Gibson, showcasing her songwriting prowess at a young age.

Side A: The album kicks off with the title track, "Out of the Blue"—an energetic anthem that sets the tone with its catchy melody and optimistic lyrics. It's about stepping out and embracing new opportunities. "Staying Together" follows, a slightly more mature tune exploring the complexities of relationships. Then comes "Only in My Dreams," the breakout hit, a dreamy, synth-driven track about infatuation and fantasy. "Foolish Beat" slows things down with a heartfelt ballad that displays Gibson's vocal range and emotional depth. It's a song about heartbreak and regret, something many young listeners could relate to. Finally, "Red Hot" brings the energy back up with a danceable track.

Side B: "Wake Up to Love" starts the second half with a burst of positivity and encouragement, urging listeners to find and embrace love. "Shake Your Love" continues the upbeat vibe with a strong dance-pop rhythm, perfect for the roller rink or bedroom dance parties. "Fallen Angel" adds a bit of a dramatic edge, telling a story of someone who's lost their way. "Play the Field" is another fun, energetic track with playful lyrics about love and relationships. The album concludes with "Between the Lines," a reflective song about understanding and communication, showing a more thoughtful side to Gibson's songwriting.

Clocking in at just over 40 minutes, "Out of the Blue" was an album I could listen to endlessly—and trust me, I did. I'd often fall into a listening rabbit hole, getting lost in the music. Fun fact: some of these tracks even inspired moments in my debut book, "Under The Lifeguard's Watch." One of my main characters is a huge pop music fan and Debbie's album is one of his favorites—he clearly has great taste. When "Electric Youth" came out, it was massive, but thanks to my friend Charlie Thayer for the cassette hookup of that second album, I still always came back to "Out of the Blue." It's just got that special something.

What are YOUR favorite 80s albums? What memories do they bring back? Share your thoughts in the comments below! And if you enjoyed this nostalgic journey and want to support more of my writing and deep dives, well, any little bit helps keep the music playing. 😉 Thanks for reading, and keep the 80s spirit alive! 🤘

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Whitney Houston's "Whitney" Album: An Eternal Pop Masterpiece

There are no perfect words to describe Whitney Houston's voice. She possessed an extraordinary ability to bring life to songs in a way that no one else could. Whitney's voice was a treasure, and her beauty, grace, and class made her an unparalleled artist. Her effortless, smooth riffs and sophisticated elegance made her a true icon.

Released on June 1, 1987, "Whitney" is one of the best-selling albums of all time, with over 20 million copies sold worldwide. This album marked the beginning of her incredible rise, debuting at number one on the US Billboard Top 200 Album Chart and staying at the top for a record 11 consecutive weeks. It features five top-10 hits on the US Billboard Hot 100, including four number-one singles.

When I first saw the "I Wanna Dance With Somebody" video, I was captivated by its infectious and colorful energy. I knew I had to own the album. My dad bought me the 45 singles of "I Wanna Dance With Somebody" and "So Emotional," and I still have the 12-inch single of "I Wanna Dance With Somebody" to this day. When my friend Stig added the cassette to his "stock" at his little flea market business, I acquired the cassette tape from my friend and fell in loved with the rest of the tunes I'd not heard on the singles I had, or the radio. Now, I cherish my CD, digital versions, and the remixed tracks of So Emotional and I Wanna Dance WIth Somebody, all of which are loaded on my phone. When I discovered it was re-released on vinyl, I couldn't resist and bought it with a gift card I received for my birthday a few years ago.

The recording process of "Whitney" was a meticulous endeavor, involving top-notch producers and musicians. The album showcases a blend of ballads and dance-pop tracks, featuring unique instruments that added depth and richness to the songs. Synthesizers, drum machines, and electric guitars were used to create a sound that was both contemporary and timeless.

The album's artwork is a reflection of Whitney's playful side while still retaining that look of elegance and sophistication we fell in love with. The cover features a striking image of Whitney, exuding confidence and grace. Her radiant smile and captivating presence make the album visually as well as musically stunning.

Each track on the "Whitney" album is a testament to her incredible talent. The standout tracks include "I Wanna Dance With Somebody," "So Emotional," "Where Do Broken Hearts Go," and "Didn't We Almost Have It All." These songs not only showcase her vocal versatility but also her ability to connect with listeners on an emotional level.

How does one do justice to a review of a classic Whitney album? It simply can't be done. Whitney and her voice speak for themselves. She is irreplaceable, and her music is timeless. We all miss her shining spirit and hope that wherever she is, she knows that we loved her in body and in spirit.

If you've had the joy of experiencing this album, I'd love to hear your thoughts and memories in the comments below. And if you feel inspired, any contributions or gifts are always appreciated but never expected. Let's keep the spirit of Whitney alive together.

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Rediscovering ABBA: A Personal Journey Through 1992

ABBA Gold Greatest Hits

Imagine this: it's 1992, a year filled with new experiences, adventures, and the magic of discovering music that speaks to the soul. For me, this was the year I truly fell in love with ABBA, all thanks to Erasure's tribute EP, ABBA-esque. This four-track homage brought the timeless melodies of the iconic Swedish pop group to a new generation and set the stage for the release of ABBA Gold: Greatest Hits, an album that would become one of my all-time favorites.

Growing up, I didn't know much about ABBA. My musical knowledge was limited, but I was a huge fan of the musical "Chess," written by Bjorn, Benny, and Tim Rice. My understanding of "Chess" far exceeded what I knew of ABBA. Everything changed when I bought a copy of Erasure’s ABBA-esque thanks to hearing the tunes countless times in the clubs, bars and in random stores. The cashier at the Sam Goody in the A&S Plaza, now Manhattan Mall, suggested I also check out the new ABBA greatest hits album called ABBA Gold. Without hesitation, I added it to my purchase, and it was one of the best decisions I ever made.

ABBA Gold is a 19-song collection that marked the first comprehensive greatest hits compilation featuring the 1970s supergroup after years of their music being off the market. Released by Polar Music in 1992, the album brought together some of ABBA's most beloved songs, offering both hardcore fans and casual listeners a straightforward collection of the group's most popular tunes. Produced by Michael B. Tretow, who worked with ABBA throughout their career, the sound quality and arrangements remained true to the original recordings.

From the infectious beat of "Dancing Queen" to the heart-wrenching "Knowing Me, Knowing You," each track on ABBA Gold tells a unique story. I remember the thrill of hearing "Take a Chance on Me" and "Mamma Mia," songs that encapsulated the essence of ABBA. "Lay All Your Love on Me" and "Super Trouper" quickly became personal favorites, each song evoking emotions and memories that I cherish to this day.

ABBA Gold stands out as one of the few albums from the 1970s and '80s that doesn't show its age. The fresh sound, innovative production, and unforgettable melodies make it timeless. The album's track listing includes hits like "I Have a Dream," "The Winner Takes It All," and "Money, Money, Money," each song contributing to the album's enduring appeal.

The release of ABBA Gold in 1992 was followed by More ABBA Gold: More ABBA Hits in 1993, featuring additional tracks like "Summer Night City" and "The Day Before You Came." Both collections were a welcome addition to ABBA's catalog of brilliant albums. Since then, ABBA Gold has been re-released several times, ensuring that new generations of listeners can experience ABBA's music in the best possible quality.

As for my personal favorites from ABBA Gold, I’d have to say "Take a Chance on Me," "Knowing Me, Knowing You," "Voulez-Vous," "Does Your Mother Know," and "Lay All Your Love on Me" are the standouts. Each song showcases the unique blend of catchy melodies, heartfelt lyrics, and impeccable production that made ABBA a global sensation.

What about you? Do you have any favorite ABBA songs or memories associated with their music? Have you listened to ABBA Gold or More ABBA Gold? I'd love to hear your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!

Music has the power to bring us together and create lasting memories. If this story resonated with you and you'd like to support my journey in sharing more personal musical memories, your contributions would be greatly appreciated. Let's continue celebrating the music that shapes our lives! 🎶✨

Lisa Vroman's Broadway Classic: An Enchanting Journey Through Theatre Hits

Lisa Vroman Broadway Classic

Today's music review is all about the amazing album by Lisa Vroman entitled Broadway Classic. I had to pleasure of seeing Lisa perform the role of Christine several times during her time with various productions of the show. Lisa Vroman performed as the original alternate Christine in the Music Box Tour of Phantom before moving on to San Francisco as the principal Christine for the show's five-year run. Miss Vroman went on to perform the role for several years on Broadway and again with the Music Box Tour. While I love most of the ladies I've seen as Christine (25 of them) if someone asks of the ones I've seen which is my favorite and I usually reply, I liked all of them for one reason or another so I couldn't narrow it down to just one. With that said, Lisa was consistently perfect throughout every performance I'd seen and her voice effortlessly flowed from her in a mesmorizing way. If any future Christine needed one to research for their role, Lisa is the one to take notes from.

Lisa Vroman as Christine

Lisa's Broadway Classic album, a sixteen-track CD produced in 1999, holds a special place in my heart. The moment I saw it in the Borders bookstore I frequented, the very same one I'd worked at for a few years, I bought the only copy in the store. Before I even left the store, I had already queued up her stellar rendition of "Think of Me" on my trusty Philips Portable CD Player, her mesmerizing voice flowing through my headphones. During the brief time I hosted an internet radio show, I frequently played tracks from Lisa's CD and was consistently asked by listeners where they could get a copy. To this day, Lisa's album remains one of my all-time favorite Phantom-related CDs. Backed by the San Francisco Radio Orchestra, the lush orchestrations can fill any room, depending on your sound system. Lisa's voice is nothing short of enchanting.

Lisa's Broadway Classic album isn't just about her incredible renditions of Phantom tunes; those are merely a fraction of what she masters. Some might argue that Julie Andrews' version of the legendary Rodgers & Hammerstein tune "The Sound of Music" is the definitive recording, but once you hear Lisa's rendition, you might find yourself reconsidering. Maury Yeston's "Unusual Way," a song I have cherished since hearing it performed by Dave Willetts, Elaine Paige, and my friend Jonathan Frank, receives a masterclass treatment from Lisa.

Lisa isn't just well-versed in modern theatre tunes; she delves into the works of Lerner & Loewe, as well as the iconic Leonard Bernstein. Her versatility shines through each track, making this CD a must-have for theatre music aficionados. Phantom enthusiasts will be particularly enchanted. I could sing the praises of this CD for days; it’s truly outstanding. Miss Vroman's performances of "Think of Me" and "Wishing You Were Somehow Here Again" make this CD worth every penny; the rest is just the cherry on top.

Though this is a CD review and I touch on the times I've seen Lisa live in The Phantom of the Opera, in the future, I will be featuring my thoughts and profiles on the ladies and gentlemen I've seen in The Phantom of the Opera over the years, just as I am doing with my Saturday GLOWcase series which features the cast, crew, and fans of the Gorgeous Ladies of Wrestling.

If you’ve had the chance to listen to this CD or see Lisa perform live, I’d love to hear your thoughts. Please share your comments below! If you enjoyed this review and would like to support future content, your contributions are greatly appreciated. Thank you! 🎶

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Black Box Dreamland & Mixed Up

Black Box's debut album Dreamland (1990) and its follow-up Mixed Up! (1991) are iconic gems of the Italo house and Eurodance genres. This came out when I was in high school and I happened upon it in a used CD store in Pensacola and the cover drew me in. Dreamland features the unforgettable hit "Ride on Time," which became a global dancefloor anthem. The album also includes the biggest tracks of Black Box's history "Everybody Everybody" and "Strike It Up," both featuring the powerful vocals of Martha Wash, who was initially uncredited. The album was produced by Groove Groove Melody and released under RCA Records.

Mixed Up! is a remix album that builds on the success of Dreamland. It includes remixes of popular tracks like "Ride on Time" and "Everybody Everybody," offering fresh takes on these dance anthems. The album showcases the production talents of Groove Groove Melody and features additional remixes by artists like Steve "Silk" Hurley. The vocal contributions of Martha Wash remain a highlight, adding depth and energy to the remixes. This one flew under my radar until I took a stroll through Camelot Music in Lenox Mall in 1992. Realizing it was an album of remixes, this was a no brainer for me to pick up.

Both albums are essential listens for fans of house music and Eurodance, capturing the vibrant club culture of the early '90s. The combination of infectious beats, memorable hooks, and powerful vocals makes these albums timeless classics that continue to resonate with listeners today.

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Dale Kristien's The Beauty of Broadway: A Must-Listen for Phantom Lovers

Dale Kristien, The Beauty of Broadway

Dale Kristien holds the unique distinction of being the only actress to perform the role of Christine for eight weekly performances in the original Los Angeles production of The Phantom of the Opera until it closed. Her journey as Christine began as the Alternate Christine on Broadway, stepping in for Patti Cohenour who replaced Sarah Brightman. It’s a shame that replacement performers often don't get the chance to release a cast recording, especially when they possess a voice like Dale Kristien.

A page from Phantom's LA program featuring Dale with Michael Crawford

After the LA production of Phantom ended, Dale recorded an eleven-track CD for Prima Records titled The Beauty of Broadway. Naturally, she included a few Phantom tunes. Her renditions of “Wishing You Were Somehow Here Again” and “Think of Me” are stellar, complete with her breathtaking cadenza and HIGH C. The album also features her duet “All I Ask of You” with her Raoul co-star, Michael Piontek. The other eight tracks span various shows, from Peter Pan and The Secret Garden to Irene. One of the most epic moments on this CD, besides the Phantom tracks, is her incredible vocal duel with her former Carlotta, Leigh Munro, during “Glitter and Be Gay” from Candide.

Dale’s voice is unique, lighter in tone than most actresses who have portrayed Christine. However, this lightness does not equate to weakness by any means. I highly recommend this CD to any Phantom fan who appreciates an outstanding Christine, as well as fans of classic musical theatre.

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I’d love to hear about them in the comments. Your stories make this journey all the more special. If you enjoyed this post and would like to support my storytelling journey, any small token of appreciation is always welcome. Let’s keep the joy of sharing memories and stories alive together!

Megan Starr-Levitt's Beautiful Broadway: An Intimate Vocal Masterpiece

I first encountered Megan Starr-Levitt as an understudy in the Broadway production of Phantom, but she truly shone when she covered the role of Christine. Her performance was mesmerizing. When I saw that Megan had released a CD, I couldn't wait to get my hands on it.

Beautiful Broadway features ten tracks, including beloved classics like "How Could I Even Know" from The Secret Garden, "Moonfall" from Drood, and "Think of Me" from Phantom. Megan's voice is stunning and crystal clear, and her renditions of these songs are simply captivating.

Megan Starr-Levitt as Christine

While the album is a simpler production, with Megan’s voice backed by a single piano, it allows her vocals to take center stage. This raw, intimate setup beautifully showcases her talent. Her rendition of "Think of Me" is a standout and is a permanent fixture on my playlist.

I highly recommend this CD to fans of Megan, classic Broadway, and those who appreciate the purity of piano and voice arrangements. Though it's a little hard to find, it's worth searching for as Megan’s voice is colorful and beautiful, making this album a delightful addition to any collection.

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"Jolene: The Timeless Brilliance of Dolly Parton"

The album "Jolene" by Dolly Parton is an absolute gem in the country music genre. Released in 1974, it features one of her most iconic songs, the title track "Jolene," which tells the poignant story of a woman pleading with another to not take away her man. This track alone showcases Dolly's incredible storytelling abilities and her knack for capturing deep emotions through her powerful vocals. The album as a whole is a testament to Dolly's versatility and her ability to blend traditional country sounds with a modern twist.

One of the standout tracks on the album, "I Will Always Love You," further solidifies Dolly's reputation as a phenomenal songwriter. This song, which later became a massive hit for Whitney Houston, highlights Dolly's raw emotion and sincerity. The simplicity of the arrangement allows her voice to take center stage, creating a heartfelt and timeless ballad. It's a song that resonates with anyone who has experienced love and loss.

Another noteworthy aspect of the album is its diverse range of musical styles. While it stays true to its country roots, songs like "Lonely Comin' Down" and "When Someone Wants to Leave" incorporate elements of folk and pop, adding depth and variety to the listening experience. Dolly's ability to experiment with different sounds while maintaining her signature style is a testament to her talent and creativity.

Overall, "Jolene" is a must-listen for any Dolly Parton fan or country music enthusiast. The album captures the essence of Dolly's artistry, from her impeccable songwriting to her emotive performances. It's a record that not only showcases her as a country icon but also as a versatile and innovative musician. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to her music, "Jolene" is sure to leave a lasting impression.

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Jonathan Frank's "Sleeping in the Arms of Love" Album Review

Jonathan Frank, Sleeping in the Arms of Love

Jonathan Frank's "Sleeping in the Arms of Love," released in 2000, is a captivating blend of pop and cabaret, perfect for cozy evenings. The album features Frank's smooth vocals accompanied by a 23-piece orchestra, creating a rich and lush soundscape. With contributions from some of Los Angeles and New York's finest songwriters, such as Francesca Blumenthal and Amanda McBroom, the album effortlessly bridges the gap between familiar classics and fresh new compositions.

What stands out about this album is its ability to transport you to a different time and place. Frank's voice has a warm, comforting quality that makes you feel like you're wrapped in a cozy blanket. The orchestration is top-notch, adding depth and emotion to each song. Whether it's a lively tune or a slow ballad, Frank's delivery is consistently engaging and heartfelt from start to finish.

Overall, "Sleeping in the Arms of Love" is an underrated hidden gem that deserves more recognition. It's the perfect listen for anyone who enjoys a mix of pop and cabaret. This album will undoubtedly leave listeners with a smile on their face and wanting more. If you're looking for something delightful and new to add to your playlist, Jonathan Frank's "Sleeping in the Arms of Love" is definitely worth a listen.

Given the fact that this album is now out of print and unavailable from anywhere but third party sellers, Jonathan has given me permission to share a digital edition of his album on my blog. I hope you enjoy this great album as much as I do.

Click Here to Download Jonathan Frank Sleeping in the Arms of Love

Much love to Jonathan. Every time I hear your voice, I can't help but smile. Very grateful for your friendship.

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