Tunes Du Jour Presents 1986

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Looking back at 1986, what stands out isn’t just the quality of the music, but how effortlessly genres merged and boundaries dissolved. Run-D.M.C. and Aerosmith’s “Walk This Way” wasn’t just a collaboration – it was a statement about how rock and hip-hop could amplify each other’s strengths. Prince, at the height of his powers, stripped everything down to bare essentials with “Kiss,” proving his superstardom could take any form. Robert Palmer’s “Addicted to Love” became inescapable, powered by one of the era’s most iconic videos, while Peter Gabriel’s “Sledgehammer” merged art rock with soul and funk, accompanied by groundbreaking stop-motion animation.

The women of pop music wielded particular influence that year. Madonna continued pushing buttons with “Papa Don’t Preach,” tackling teenage pregnancy in a way that sparked national conversation. Whitney Houston’s “How Will I Know” showcased her extraordinary vocal range while proving dance-pop could be both sophisticated and irresistible. Janet Jackson asked “What Have You Done for Me Lately,” establishing herself as a force independent of her famous family. Cyndi Lauper’s “True Colors” transcended its moment, becoming an enduring anthem of self-acceptance that would be covered for decades to come.

The underground was rising to the surface, but keeping its edge. The Smiths’ “There Is A Light That Never Goes Out” brought literary depth to alternative rock, while New Order’s “Bizarre Love Triangle” helped blueprint the future of electronic dance music. The Pet Shop Boys’ “West End Girls” married street-smart observations with pristine synth-pop, and Public Image Ltd.’s “Rise” proved post-punk could evolve without losing its bite. Even The Cure, with “In Between Days,” found a way to make melancholy sound surprisingly radio-friendly.

Soul and R&B were experiencing their own renaissance. Anita Baker’s “Sweet Love” brought sophisticated quiet storm to the mainstream, while Cameo’s “Word Up!” demonstrated funk’s continuing vitality. Grace Jones’ “Slave to the Rhythm” showcased the artist’s commanding presence, and James Brown reminded everyone he was still the Godfather of Soul with “Living in America.” The year also saw George Michael step out of Wham!’s shadow with “A Different Corner,” proving he could hold his own as a solo artist.

The year proved fertile ground for both established and emerging voices. Bruce Springsteen’s “My Hometown” painted a portrait of a changing America, while Billy Bragg’s “Levi Stubbs’ Tears” showed how personal stories could carry political weight. Elvis Costello’s “I Want You” pushed the boundaries of what a love song could express, and R.E.M.’s “Fall on Me” managed to be both cryptic and urgently relevant. Meanwhile, LL Cool J’s “I Can’t Live Without My Radio” brought hip-hop closer to the mainstream while maintaining its street credibility. In retrospect, 1986 wasn’t just a great year for music – it was a moment when artists across the spectrum proved that innovation and accessibility weren’t mutually exclusive.

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Tunes Du Jour Presents 1983

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The year 1983 was a vibrant musical landscape, a moment when pop culture was exploding with creativity and technological advancement. It was a year when Michael Jackson’s “Billie Jean” dominated the airwaves, its infectious rhythm and groundbreaking music video revolutionizing how we experienced music. The single was more than just a song; it was a cultural phenomenon that captured the zeitgeist of an era when music was becoming increasingly visual and dynamic.

This was also the year when Prince’s “1999” prophetically danced with apocalyptic themes, and The Police’s “Every Breath You Take” became an anthem of complex emotional surveillance. The diversity of musical styles was remarkable, with artists like Dexys Midnight Runners bringing an unconventional folk-pop energy with “Come on Eileen,” while New Order’s “Blue Monday” pushed the boundaries of electronic music, creating a sound that would influence dance music for decades to come. David Bowie’s “Let’s Dance” marked a vibrant shift in his musical journey, infusing his signature artistic sensibility with an irresistible pop-funk groove.

The single was king in 1983, with an unprecedented number of memorable tracks that seemed to burst from radios and dance floors everywhere. Eurythmics’ “Sweet Dreams (Are Made Of This)” introduced Annie Lennox’s haunting vocals to the world, while Marvin Gaye’s “Sexual Healing” offered a smooth, sensual counterpoint to the era’s more uptempo sounds. Lionel Richie’s “All Night Long” exemplified the period’s sunny, celebratory pop, and Culture Club’s “Do You Really Want to Hurt Me” challenged musical and social conventions with its charismatic lead singer, Boy George.

The year wasn’t just about pop, however. Rock and new wave were thriving, with bands like The Smiths (“This Charming Man”), The Clash (“Rock the Casbah”), and Duran Duran (“Hungry Like The Wolf”) pushing musical boundaries. Hip-hop and early rap were also emerging, with tracks like Melle Mel’s “White Lines” and Herbie Hancock’s groundbreaking “Rockit” signaling a musical revolution that would transform popular culture in the coming decades.

What made 1983 truly special was how it represented a moment of musical transition—a year when synthesizers and drum machines were becoming more prevalent, when music videos were transforming how artists communicated, and when genres were blending in unprecedented ways. From the new romantic sounds of Heaven 17’s “Temptation” to the quirky charm of Men Without Hats’ “The Safety Dance,” the music of 1983 was a testament to creativity, innovation, and the pure joy of sound. It was a year that didn’t just produce hit songs, but created a sonic landscape that would influence musicians for generations to come.

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Your (Almost) Daily Playlist: 11-3-24

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Adam Ant was born Stuart Leslie Goddard on this date in 1954. Supposedly, the name “Adam” was inspired by the biblical first man, symbolizing a fresh start after a serious bout of depression and a suicide attempt, while “Ant” reflected his desire for his band to embody industriousness and resilience, akin to ants in nature.

A handful of tracks from Mr. Ant are included on today’s playlist.

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Tunes Du Jour Presents 1987

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The year 1987 stands out as a significant moment in music history, marked by a diverse array of singles that have maintained their appeal over the decades. This year saw the release of songs that would go on to define careers, shape genres, and become enduring favorites.

The pop landscape of 1987 was populated by distinctive vocalists and memorable melodies. Whitney Houston’s exuberant “I Wanna Dance With Somebody (Who Loves Me)” captured the essence of joy in music, while George Michael’s “Faith” showcased his evolution as a solo artist. Madonna continued her prominence with “Open Your Heart,” demonstrating her knack for combining catchy hooks with provocative themes. Michael Jackson’s “Bad” further cemented his status as a pop icon, blending funk and rock elements with his signature vocal style.

Rock music saw bands crafting anthems and pushing creative boundaries. U2’s “With or Without You” exemplified their ascent to global recognition, its atmospheric sound and emotional depth marking a new era for the band. Bon Jovi’s “Livin’ on a Prayer” became a quintessential rock anthem, its narrative of perseverance resonating widely. R.E.M.’s “The One I Love” signaled their transition from college rock darlings to mainstream success. Bruce Springsteen’s “Brilliant Disguise” showcased his storytelling prowess, while Peter Gabriel’s “Big Time” continued his innovative approach to both music and video.

The year also saw the continued evolution of electronic and alternative music. New Order’s “True Faith” merged dance beats with introspective lyrics, creating a template for future electronic pop. Pet Shop Boys’ “It’s a Sin” demonstrated the potential for electronic music to tackle serious themes, while The Cure’s “Why Can’t I Be You?” showed how alternative bands could create irresistibly catchy tunes without compromising their unique sound. The Smiths’ “Girlfriend in a Coma” exemplified Morrissey and Johnny Marr’s ability to blend dark humor with infectious melodies.

1987 was a landmark year for hip-hop and R&B. The Beastie Boys’ “(You Gotta) Fight for Your Right (To Party!!!)” fused punk rock attitude with hip-hop and heavy metal styles, helping to bring rap to a wider audience. Eric B. & Rakim’s “I Know You Got Soul” set new standards for technical proficiency and lyrical complexity in hip-hop. In R&B, Anita Baker’s “Caught Up in the Rapture” showcased her sophisticated, jazz-influenced style.

The year also saw notable releases from established artists exploring new territories. Prince’s “Sign ‘☮’ The Times” demonstrated his musical versatility and social consciousness, while Paul Simon’s “You Can Call Me Al” incorporated South African musical elements, reflecting the growing interest in global music.

Nineteen eighty-seven produced an impressive number of singles that have maintained their popularity over time. From pop to rock, R&B to alternative, the year offered a variety of sounds and styles that continue to resonate. The enduring appeal of these tracks speaks to the creativity and talent that was evident in this notable year of musical history.

Tunes Du Jour Presents The Smiths and Morrissey

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The Smiths, fronted by the iconic Morrissey, left an indelible mark on the landscape of popular music with their distinct blend of jangly guitars, poignant lyrics, and an often somber, yet ironically humorous, outlook on life. From their debut single “Hand in Glove” to classics like “This Charming Man” and “There Is A Light That Never Goes Out,” The Smiths captured the hearts and minds of listeners in the 1980s and beyond, creating a legacy that continues to influence countless artists today.

At the heart of The Smiths’ sound was the partnership between Morrissey and guitarist Johnny Marr. Morrissey’s unique vocal style and melancholic, introspective lyrics were perfectly complemented by Marr’s melodic guitar work. Tracks like “How Soon Is Now?” and “Bigmouth Strikes Again” showcase this synergy, with Morrissey’s expressive voice riding the wave of Marr’s intricate guitar riffs. Their music often tackled themes of love, alienation, and societal critique, resonating deeply with a generation of fans.

After The Smiths disbanded in 1987, Morrissey embarked on a successful solo career, continuing to explore similar themes but with a broader musical palette. Songs like “Everyday Is Like Sunday” and “The More You Ignore Me, the Closer I Get” highlight his ability to craft memorable melodies and incisive lyrics. Morrissey’s solo work retained the wit and introspection of his days with The Smiths, while tracks such as “Irish Blood, English Heart” demonstrated his willingness to address political and social issues head-on.

Despite his musical achievements, Morrissey’s career has been marred by controversy. He has faced accusations of racism and criticism for his provocative statements on immigration and national identity. These controversies have alienated some fans and led to heated debates about the separation of art and artist. While Morrissey’s outspoken nature has undoubtedly cast a shadow over his legacy, it has also sparked important discussions about the role of artists in society and the impact of their personal beliefs on their public personas.

The Smiths and Morrissey have received numerous accolades over the years, including critical acclaim and dedicated fan followings. Their influence can be seen in the work of bands like The Stone Roses, Radiohead, and Oasis, all of whom have cited The Smiths as a significant inspiration. Despite the controversies, the enduring appeal of songs like “Heaven Knows I’m Miserable Now” and “Panic” underscores the lasting impact of The Smiths’ music.

In sum, the music of The Smiths and Morrissey remains a cornerstone of alternative rock, celebrated for its lyrical depth, melodic innovation, and cultural significance. While Morrissey’s controversial stances have sparked debate and disapproval, the artistic contributions of The Smiths continue to resonate, offering solace and connection to listeners navigating the complexities of life.

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