Hormonally Yours: The Legacy of Shakespears Sister's Groundbreaking Album, A Masterpiece That Stays With You

Some albums define a moment in your life. Others transcend it, weaving themselves into the fabric of your experiences and becoming a cornerstone of who you are. For me, Shakespears Sister's Hormonally Yours is both—a timeless masterpiece that has followed me through countless adventures and personal milestones.

I first stumbled across Shakespears Sister in July of 1992 while browsing at Camelot Music in Lenox Mall. "Stay" was playing in the store and I remember being completely captivated by its unique blend of haunting beauty and theatrical drama. Marcella Detroit’s stunning soprano paired with Siobhan Fahey’s sultry, gothic growl was unlike anything I had ever heard. Intrigued, I purchased the cassette single, which was backed by "Catwoman" and quickly fell in love. Little did I know that this single would become a doorway to something much larger.

Before I left Atlanta that summer, the roommate of one of my hustler friends made a copy of his Hormonally Yours cassette for me. That tape was a prized possession and a partial soundtrack to an unforgettable road trip. Andrew Wilder and I piled into "his" white convertible Chrysler LeBaron and headed for New York. The album blasted as we sang along to every track, the wind whipping through the open car. It wasn’t until we were a few hundred miles from New York that I found out the car was stolen—a revelation that added another layer of chaos and excitement to the journey. That wild trip is a story I've told many times and will be sharing in my book, but Hormonally Yours fit perfectly as a partial backdrop.

Fast forward a couple of years and my boyfriend at the time, Richie, rekindled my love for the album. Richie was obsessed with anything alternative and goth and while I never fully categorized Shakespears Sister in either of those genres, their music certainly carried that moody edge he adored. His enthusiasm pulled me deeper into the album, taking me beyond casual listening into a full-on appreciation for every lyric, harmony and production choice. Richie also had a VHS tape of their music videos, which we watched over and over again. Even now, I occasionally pull up the videos on YouTube and they transport me back to those moments of shared admiration for the artistry of Siobhan and Marcella.
But this album hasn’t just stayed as a memory; it’s been part of my personal expression, too. Over the years, I’ve sung "Stay" at auditions for The Voice and America’s Got Talent, pouring everything into every note to channel its emotional intensity. When I was still on top of my vocal game, both parts sat comfortably in my range. The song has always held a special place at the top of my favorites, a timeless masterpiece that resonates deeply with me—both whenever I performed it and even now, each time I hear it.

Released on February 17, 1992, under London Records, Hormonally Yours was the product of the creative genius of Siobhan Fahey and Marcella Detroit. Produced by the duo themselves, alongside Alan Moulder and Chris Thomas, the album pushed boundaries with its adventurous blend of pop, goth and rock. Songwriting credits include Fahey, Detroit, and contributors like Ed Shearmur and Jean Guiot.
The impact of the album wasn’t just sonic—it was visual as well. The music videos, particularly for tracks like "Stay" and "I Don’t Care" were theatrical and unforgettable, amplifying the drama and artistry of the songs.

The lead single, "Goodbye Cruel World," was released ahead of the album but failed to make a commercial splash. Its upbeat, campy production—complete with irresistible “ooh la la la” harmonies—contrasts delightfully with its melancholic lyrics, making it a hidden gem. Then came "Stay" released in the UK on January 13, 1992 and in the US on April 21, 1992. This iconic single redefined Shakespears Sister’s legacy. From Marcella’s emotional verses to Siobhan’s haunting delivery, "Stay" is a pop masterpiece. It spent a record-breaking eight weeks at number one in the UK and remains the duo’s most iconic track. Other singles like "I Don’t Care" with its fiery opening scream and the poignant ballad "Hello (Turn Your Radio On)" rounded out the album’s commercial success, each showcasing a different facet of the duo’s versatility.

Beyond the singles, the album is full of standout moments. "Black Sky" takes on a darker, experimental tone, with Marcella’s opera-like, backward-sung vocals adding an eerie brilliance. "The Trouble With Andre" pairs Siobhan’s sultry vocals with an atmospheric production that feels delightfully moody.
"Moonchild" offers a calmer, soothing sound, its introspective lyrics contrasting with the epic swells of its chorus. "Catwoman" with its T-Rex-inspired quirkiness is a fun and eccentric addition. Even "My 16th Apology" with its reggae-inspired melody and "Let Me Entertain You" the album’s least exciting track, contribute to the album’s eclectic charm. The closing ballad, "Hello (Turn Your Radio On)," is a poignant plea for connection. Siobhan’s emotive delivery, paired with Marcella’s harmonies, brings the album to a hauntingly beautiful conclusion.

From its original release on cassette and CD to its digital availability, vinyl pressings and expanded special editions, Hormonally Yours has been preserved across generations of music formats. The CD I’ve treasured since 1994 has traveled with me from Florida to Alabama and countless other places—including Kentucky, New York, Las Vegas, Bochum and Atlanta. It’s comforting to know that this masterpiece continues to be accessible to fans both old and new.

For me, Hormonally Yours isn’t just an album—it’s a journey, a connection to moments that have shaped me and a source of inspiration that continues to give. Its bold mix of sounds, clever lyrics and emotional depth make it an enduring classic that still makes the hair on the back of my neck stand up at times.

What about you? Have you listened to Hormonally Yours? Does it hold a special place in your heart like it does in mine? I’d love to hear your thoughts—drop a comment below and let’s celebrate this incredible album together! And if you’d like to show some love for this blog or support my work, any token of appreciation would mean the world to me. Thank you for coming along on this musical journey!

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A Very Special Christmas 1 & 2 Music Review Celebrating the Season

The holiday season has always been a magical time for me, filled with cherished traditions and fond memories. One of the most enduring and beloved parts of my festive routine has been listening to A Very Special Christmas 1 & 2. Released to benefit the Special Olympics, these albums feature a star-studded lineup of artists and have become beloved holiday staples since their release.

I still remember the first time I heard A Very Special Christmas 1. It was a chilly evening in December, and I was at our neighbor's house just before Christmas. The moment the Pointer Sisters' "Santa Claus Is Coming to Town" came on, I was hooked. The album is a perfect blend of holiday classics and unique renditions by some of the most iconic artists of the time. Tracks like Whitney Houston's "Do You Hear What I Hear?" and Bruce Springsteen's "Merry Christmas Baby" quickly became favorites. The mix of upbeat songs and soulful ballads made it an instant classic in our home. The album's artwork, designed by Keith Haring, features a vibrant red background with a simple yet striking image of a mother holding her child, adding a visually festive touch to the musical collection.

Then came A Very Special Christmas 2, which only added to the holiday joy. I was thrilled to hear Tom Petty's "Christmas All Over Again" and Debbie Gibson's "Sleigh Ride." Each song seemed to capture the essence of the holiday spirit in a way that felt both nostalgic and fresh. Randy Travis' "Jingle Bell Rock" and Aretha Franklin's "O Christmas Tree" are standout tracks that have me singing along every time. This album continued the tradition of bringing together a diverse group of artists, making the Christmas season even more special. The artwork for this album, also by Keith Haring, features a festive green background with a simple, joyful image of three angels, perfectly capturing the spirit of the season.

These albums were not just about bringing joy through music; they were also created with a purpose. The proceeds from both A Very Special Christmas 1 & 2 were directed to benefit the Special Olympics, making the listening experience even more meaningful. Over the years, these albums have raised millions of dollars, supporting athletes with intellectual disabilities and promoting inclusion and empowerment through sports.

Over the years, these albums have been the soundtrack to countless holiday moments. From wrapping presents and baking cookies to cozy nights with a cup of hot cocoa, the music of A Very Special Christmas 1 & 2 has been there through it all. The joy and warmth these songs bring are unparalleled, and they never fail to evoke a sense of nostalgia and happiness. Whether it's the unique blend of artists or the timeless appeal of the songs, these albums hold a special place in my heart.

As we approach another holiday season, I'm excited to once again put on these albums and let the music fill my home with festive cheer. They remind me of the magic of the holidays and the simple joys that come with this time of year. If you haven't yet experienced the charm of A Very Special Christmas 1 & 2, I highly recommend giving them a listen. They're sure to become a beloved part of your holiday traditions, just as they have been for me.

A Nostalgic Christmas with Elvis

I still remember the time my dad took me to K-Mart in Milton, Florida. The holiday season of 1985 was just beginning, and the store was filled with the typical festive K-Mart decorations and the sound of Christmas music. As we walked through the aisles, I spotted a record with Elvis Presley on the cover. He told me he didn't really like Elvis, but a couple of my cousins were part of an old gospel group that Elvis loved, and he became good friends with them. Despite his reservations, he bought the record for me. I honestly knew nothing other than the names of the songs, but I loved the color and picture of Elvis on the cover.

When we got home, I eagerly put the record on my old hand-me-down Emerson Disco 80 record player. As the first notes of "Blue Christmas" filled the room, I was instantly captivated by Elvis's voice. It was soulful and full of emotion, something I hadn't expected. I listened to the entire album, which included classics like "White Christmas," "Here Comes Santa Claus," and "Silent Night." Each song transported me to a different world, filled with holiday cheer and nostalgia.

Elvis's Christmas Album, released in 1957, was a mix of secular and gospel songs. It featured six popular Christmas songs, two traditional carols, and four gospel tracks. The album was a hit, spending four weeks at No. 1 on the Billboard Top Pop Albums chart and becoming the best-selling Christmas album of all time in the United States. Elvis's rendition of "Blue Christmas" became a holiday classic, capturing the bittersweet feeling of spending Christmas without a loved one. Though Elvis only recorded a handful of holiday songs, they have been re-released and repackaged in many different ways over the years. My album was one of the various re-releases.

That record became a cherished part of my holiday tradition. Every year around the holidays, and once in a while throughout the year, I would play it just because. It reminded me of that special day at K-Mart and the joy of discovering a new/old favorite artist. Even though my dad didn't like Elvis, he gave me a gift that brought me so much happiness. It's a memory I'll always treasure.

Falling in Love with Annie Lennox's "A Christmas Cornucopia" Album Review

Annie Lennox A Christmas Cornucopia

In this blog post, I revisit Annie Lennox's timeless 2010 holiday album, "A Christmas Cornucopia." This beautifully arranged collection of classic Christmas carols showcases Annie's unique voice and artistic flair, making it a must-listen every festive season. I'll also share how my friend Erik Harden introduced me to Annie's incredible talent and his attempt to turn me into an androgynous male version of her.

Annie Lennox's "A Christmas Cornucopia" is filled with beautifully arranged classic Christmas carols, each track highlighting her powerful, emotive voice. The album perfectly blends traditional holiday cheer with Annie's signature style, making it a must-listen every festive season. From "God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen" and "Lullay Lullay (The Coventry Carol)" to "Silent Night," each song is given new life with her imaginative arrangements and heartfelt performances.

Though I knew her from the hit songs "Here Comes the Rain Again" and "Sweet Dreams" my love for Annie Lennox's voice began thanks to my friend Erik Harden. He was a huge fan and had tried to get me to become an androgynous singer like a young male version of Annie. Although I didn't quite take that path, I am eternally grateful to Erik for introducing me to Annie's incredible talent. Her voice never fails to captivate me, and "A Christmas Cornucopia" is a shining example of her versatility and artistry.

What I love most about this album is the fresh spin Annie puts on these well-known carols. Her creative take on traditional songs brings a new sense of magic and wonder to the holiday season. Each track is not just a song but a heartfelt performance that embodies the spirit of Christmas. Listening to "A Christmas Cornucopia" not only brings the holiday spirit but also reminds me of the enduring influence of Annie Lennox's music on my life, thanks to Erik's encouragement.

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Album Review: "Fly" by Sarah Brightman - Soaring High with Every Track

Sarah Brightman Fly

Sarah Brightman’s "Fly" album is a magical ride from start to finish. I was a huge fan of Brightman’s previous album “Dive” which featured covers and tunes written or co-written by Frank Peterson of Enigma fame. Released in 1995 and subsequently released a year later featuring the duet “Time To Say Goodbye,” this album blends pop, classical, and electronic sounds in a way that only Brightman can. It kicks off slow with the title track and gradually builds. My favorite from the album for years was the track "A Question of Honour," a powerful track that mixes opera and dance music seamlessly. The song builds up with intense energy, setting the tone for the rest of the album.

"Ghost in the Machinery," a hauntingly beautiful track with a catchy beat. "You Take My Breath Away" follows, showcasing Brightman’s ethereal voice perfectly. Each song on the album has its own unique vibe—like "Something in the Air," which features Tom Jones and has a fun, retro feel to it. "Heaven Is Here" is another standout, with its dreamy melodies and soothing vocals.

The album doesn’t shy away from emotional depth, either. "How Can Heaven Love Me" is a duet with Chris Thompson that’s both powerful and heartfelt. The album wraps up with a reprise version of "Fly," a tender and touching conclusion to this musical journey.

Fly was also re-released for Brightman's La Luna Tour featuring a bonus disc known as Fly II and again in 2006 as an expanded single disc featuring tracks from Fly II as bonus tracks.

Overall, "Fly" showcases Sarah Brightman’s versatility as an artist. Whether she’s belting out high notes or singing softly, her voice is captivating. Each track brings something different to the table, making this album a must-listen for both old fans and new listeners alike.

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