WHAM! - 1984 (1 ALBUM)

-



"MAKE IT BIG"
 
1984

 

 
WAKE ME UP BEFORE YOU GO-GO - The opener to the abum was a 50s/60s inspired uptempo Rock and Roll/Pop crossover that would encourage every listener to try and stop themselves from singing the infectious chorus.
 
 

EVERYTHING SHE WANTS -  For me is one of George Michael's best lyrical songs.  It's not a ctchy Pop song, it doesn't have a catchy chorus, its composition keeps changing in the song, for fans of songwriting like myself though, the lyrics are brilliant.  This was a taster for the brilliant mature songs to come as a solo performer for George.

HEARTBEAT - This has elements of a slowed down  "Freedom" hidden in the track but its ultimately a Motown Soul song similar to the greats of that genre in the 60s.  It showcases George's blossoming vocals and also his carrying of songs with a minimal backing.

LIKE A BABY - In my opinion is the weakest track on the album, it meanders along and doesn't really light up in any way towards the end, I am sure George looking back could have included something better, although the quality of the album was a high one.

FREEDOM -  The third single from the album was a kind of Motown sounding track, which became a massive hit and the 10th best selling hit in 1984's year end charts.  The vocals and melodies changed throughout and maybe wasn't as much a sing-a-long as "Wake Me Up Before You Go Go" but its still a great Pop song.

IF YOU WERE THERE -  A cover of the Isley Brothers song is a touch of class.  Proving that George could turn his hand to any genre, this R n' B Soul classic is given an updated feel and unlike many cover versions this one works.  A song with a chorus that is instantly in your head also shows Geroge chooses songs that live long in the memory in the most part.

CREDIT CARD BABY - A little Jazz Swing feel complete with some brass to help it along.  Its a midtempo bright and breezy song which goes great with the theme of the album.

CARELESS WHISPER - As a single, credited to George Michael for the first time and it was the perfect Pop ballad.  Breathy vocals from George for the most part with a fabulous saxophone riff throughout the song.  Full of emotion and a really classy love song, one of, if not THE best from George in my opinion.
 
 
 

ALSO ON NEW MUSIC EAR -

GEORGE MICHAEL 







Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

PRINCE AND THE REVOLUTION - 1984 - 1986 (THE COMPLETE 3 ALBUM COLLECTION)

-
Image
     "PURPLE RAIN"  "1984" LET'S GO CRAZY - The abum opens with the famous church organ sounding out with a little Prince-like "sermon" before firing up a blistering funky Rock anthem that is one of my favourite songs by the man.  The single was the 2nd single release from the album and along with its B-side "Take Me With U" hit number 7 in the UK chart.  If previous releases wan't enough proof this track shows Prince the brilliant guitarist.   TAKE ME WITH U - As previously stated this was a double A-side of "Let's Go Crazy" which radio sometimes played as an alternative.  Sung as a duet with Apollonia Kotero (the female lead in the "Purple Rain" movie) with co-vocals by Jill Jones and Lisa Coleman.  A melodic easy going romantic track with strings bringing down the pace a bit after the opening track. THE BEAUTIFUL ONES - One of Prince's most loved sexy, lustful, emotionally charged romantic ballads.  Altho
Read more

MADONNA - 1983 - 2003 (9 ALBUMS)

-
Image
"MADONNA"   1983 LUCKY STAR - The opening track is a Disco Pop song, which became her trademark for this debut album before moving into more Pop areas in her next few albums.  Its mid tempo beats and twangy guitars and elctro synths made this an accessible staple to radio airplay connecting to a variety of listeners.  Classic Madonna. BORDERLINE - A change of direction after the first upbeat song, this is a kind of Pop ballad set to a Disco track.  Some lovely harmonies and became her first top ten hit in the USA.  A Reggie Lucas written composition and it gave Madonna chance to explore her vocals and conveying emotion in her songs.  One of my favourites. BURNING UP - One of my top songs by Madonna.  Similar to the later "Gambler".  It is a fast paced Disco beat laden track with a rockier twist with random guitar riffs.  A real gem.     I KNOW IT - This track is keyboard led and has a nice 60s Pop/Rock N' Roll vibe akin to the later "True Blue".  A
Read more

PRINCE - 1978 - 2021 (9 ALBUMS)

-
Image
"FOR YOU"   1978 FOR YOU - The very first track on any Prince album is a little over a minute long and showcases the astounding vocal range of the then teenage artist.  Harmonising with himself, using his voice as melodies and adding a Gospel and church choir like style.  Brave for a first track to bare himself like this but then Prince was to be no ordinary performer! IN LOVE - A Pop Soul track that has very slight hints of Funk.  It is essentially a mid tempo ballad.  Showing the early talent this guy had for hearing unusual sounds that merge together brilliantly.  All tracks here composed, performed, arranged and produced by this teenager on his debut, that in itself is remarkable. SOFT AND WET - The first introduction to the now famous (or infamous to some) sexual innuendo laden tracks that he composed during his reign.  A Disco Funk track with a little Soul, was released as a single on his 20th birthday as the first from this album.      
Read more