Come on, get happy
Is it just me or do you feel like a million voices suddenly cried out and then were suddenly silenced? College football is over. Holiday bills are arriving. I still haven't gotten my Mon-Chi-Chi of the Month in the mail yet. Man, this time of year is just depressing.
What we need is clear: A list of the happiest songs of the 80s.
This task won't be easy. We'll have to wade through a ton of the usual depressing stuff and then some real awful tunes that masquerade as happy songs (Bobby McFerrin's "Don't Worry, Be Happy" comes to mind) in order to get to the true contenders.
So here are the rules for submitting to the list: Obviously, it must be an 80s song (so no "Shiny Happy People" by REM -- that was '91). Second, it has to actually cheer you up -- not want to tear your computer speakers out and throw them in the bathtub. Does it need to have "happy" in the title? Heck no, Smokey. Just use your common sense.
As always, I'll rank them later on. But for now, here are some to get your minds working:
Walking On Sunshine (Katrina and the Waves): Sure, very obvious. But after Jack Black blares it in High Fidelity, how can you hate it?
Girls Just Wanna Have Fun (Cyndi Lauper): It's cliche, but don't you still smile when you hear it?
What A Feeling (Irene Cara): Ah yes, Flashdance. The yin and the yang of 80s pop culture.
Break My Stride (Matthew Wilder): Where was this song when we did the one-hit wonders of 1983?
I'm Still Standing (Elton John): Believe it or not, the "Too Low For Zero" album in '83 was the first Elton John album I owned.
OK, it's your turn now.
How about Vacation by the Bangles? That always puts me in a good mood.
Posted by: Mike W | January 08, 2008 at 02:03 PM
You mean the Go-Go's version of Vacation?
Posted by: Spears | January 08, 2008 at 02:11 PM
Vaction was by the Go-Go's
Head Over Heels - The Go-Go's
New Song - Howard Jones
Dancing With Myself - Billy Idol
Hip To Be Square - Huey Lewis & The News
Hyperactive! - Thomas Dolby
You May Be Right - Billy Joel
Something So Strong - Crowded house
Twisting The Night Away - Rod Stewart
Magic - The Cars
Our House - Madness
Freeze Frame - J. Geils Band
Funky Town - Pseudo Echo
Posted by: Bassnote | January 08, 2008 at 02:15 PM
here's One for Al:
Jump by Van Halen
Posted by: Bassnote | January 08, 2008 at 02:18 PM
OOPS.. mea culpa.. I get the two groups confused..
Posted by: Mike W | January 08, 2008 at 02:20 PM
Damn, Bassnote! You rocked on that list. And you can pretty much put any Howard Jones song on the list, like "Things Can Only Get Better."
"Magic" by the Cars is great. So is "Shake It Up."
Others that pop to mind:
Footloose -- Kenny Loggins
One Vision -- Queen (and hell, I wish I could grandfather in "Don't Stop Me Now" in there)
Posted by: Spears | January 08, 2008 at 02:26 PM
Every Little Thing She Does Is Magic -- The Police!
True Blue -- Madonna
Just Got Lucky -- JoBoxers
Diamonds on the Souls of Her Shoes -- Paul Simon
Kiss -- Sir Tom Jones and the Art of Noise
She Bop -- Cyndi Lauper *raises eyebrows mischieviously*
Cool Places -- Sparks with Jane Wiedlin
Posted by: jane | January 08, 2008 at 02:35 PM
I can't stay away from this topic:
Human Touch - Rick Springfield
Modern Love - David Bowie
Legs - ZZ Top
Just Like Heaven - The Cure (I know, the Cure and happy don't usually go together)
And We Danced - the Hooters
What You Need - INXS
Footloose - Kenny Loggins
Mad About You - Belinda Carlisle
Everybody Have Fun Tonight - Wang Chung
Posted by: Bassnote | January 08, 2008 at 02:35 PM
Stand and Deliver-Adam and the Ants
Just A Gigolo- DLR
Tuff Enough-Fabulous Thunderbirds
Stone In Love-Journey
Rockit-Herbie Hancock
Dr Heckyll & Mr Jive-Men @ Work
Time Again-Asia
In A Big Country-Big Country
Posted by: Tom | January 08, 2008 at 02:41 PM
And She Was -- Talking Heads
Mickey -- Toni Basil
867-5409/Jenny -- Tommy Tutone
Wishing Well -- Terence Trent D'Arby
Jungle Love -- Morris Day & The Time
Posted by: jane | January 08, 2008 at 02:42 PM
Just Got Lucky ~ JoBoxers
Stand By ~ Roman Holliday
Life Gets Better ~ Graham Parker
Favourite Shirts (Boy Meets Girl) ~ Haircut 100
Posted by: Jeff in Cuba | January 08, 2008 at 02:43 PM
Big Country cheers me up every time. Good pick, Tom.
Posted by: Spears | January 08, 2008 at 02:43 PM
I Knew The Bride (When She Used To Rock 'n Roll) - Nick Lowe
When It Started To Begin - Nick Heyward
99 Luftballons - Nena
All I Need Is A Miracle - Mike + The Mechanics
Sweet Freedom - Michael McDonald
Hot Girls In Love - Loverboy
Something About You - Level 42
Posted by: Bassnote | January 08, 2008 at 02:46 PM
What about "1999" from Prince? Favourite Shirts (Boy Meets Girl) gets my vote too. And I've always been partial to "House of Fun" by Madness. But then there's also Romeo Void's "Never Say Never"...
Posted by: Debra | January 08, 2008 at 02:57 PM
Dreams-Van Hagar
Heart and Soul-Huey Lewis and The News
Tom Sawyer-Rush
Back in Black-AC/DC
Posted by: Tom | January 08, 2008 at 02:57 PM
Whip It - Devo
She's A Beauty - The Tubes
Posted by: K | January 08, 2008 at 02:58 PM
Looking for Clues -- Robert Palmer
Tall Cool One -- Robert Plant
Pulling Mussels (From the Shell) -- Squeeze
Get it On (Bang a Gong) -- Power Station
Posted by: jane | January 08, 2008 at 02:59 PM
I think I'd pick "Spirit of Radio" over "Tom Sawyer" by Rush.
Also...
Radio Ga-Ga -- Queen
Birdhouse in your Soul -- They Might Be Giants
Posted by: Spears | January 08, 2008 at 02:59 PM
Oh no! Robert Plant and Power Station?? You've picked two of my least favorite bands, Jane!
Posted by: Spears | January 08, 2008 at 03:07 PM
How about BREAK OUT by Swing out Sister? Eh, Jeff? huh? what'cha say?
Posted by: Marissa | January 08, 2008 at 03:11 PM
We Want A Rock ~ TMBG
Sushi Girl ~ The Tubes
My Ever Changing Moods ~ The Style Council
New Day For You ~ Basia
I Say Nothing ~ Voice Of The Beehive
Somewhere In My Heart ~ Aztec Camera
Posted by: Jeff in Cuba | January 08, 2008 at 03:14 PM
I LOVE me some Power Station -- but mostly because I adore Robert Palmer. And Get It On (Bang a Gong) has a very hot, sexy almost primal beat to it... in my groovin' opinion.
Posted by: jane | January 08, 2008 at 03:14 PM
...but seriously, folks
Rockin' at Midnight~ Honeydrippers
Rock this Town ~ Stray Cats
Fascination ~ Human League
I'm alright ~ Kenny Loggins
Everybody Wants Some ~ VanHalen
Super Freak ~ Rick James, Bi&$%!
Posted by: Marissa | January 08, 2008 at 03:17 PM
The Reflex -- Duran Duran
Stone in Love -- Journey
Don't Stop Believing -- Journey
And for god sake's...
The Safety Dance -- Men Without Hats
Posted by: Spears | January 08, 2008 at 03:23 PM
Awesome pick bassnote jump Van Halen Thats one good DLR song. or what about
We built this city - Starship
Posted by: Jake Grimme From Indiana | January 08, 2008 at 03:24 PM
You know, I almost picked "don't stop believing" but I figured it was too easy of a pick and I'd get tomatoes thrown at me for taking an easy ride.
Posted by: Marissa | January 08, 2008 at 03:27 PM
Marissa,
I'm not sure exactly how I would characterize "Breakout" in my list of favorite 80's songs, but "happy" wouldn't be my first choice.
I'd want a more subtle, nuanced adjective. Like "swinging".
And if we're going to pick a Men Without Hats tune, I vote for "Pop Goes The World". Much cheerier.
Posted by: Jeff in Cuba | January 08, 2008 at 03:27 PM
Great one -- The Safety Dance. Although it's nearly impossible to actually do the Safety Dance while typing... trust me. I tried.
Posted by: jane | January 08, 2008 at 03:27 PM
And Jeff -- My Ever-Changing Moods is a very inspired choice. I must look to see if I even have that song -- and if I don't, I need to download it immediately.
Posted by: jane | January 08, 2008 at 03:29 PM
"Pop Goes the World" is an excellent choice. I forgot that one.
Also, I will defend Jake's "We Built This City" pick. I do enjoy that song greatly.
Posted by: Spears | January 08, 2008 at 03:32 PM
Thanks Steve it is a pretty good tune oh how about
Any way you want it - Journey
Come Sail away - Styx
Posted by: Jake Grimme From Indiana | January 08, 2008 at 03:37 PM
Word Up ~ Cameo
Walk Like an Egyptian ~ The Bangles
Tell her About it ~ Billy Joel
Love Shack ~ B52s
The Way you Make ME Feel ~ Michael Jackson
Mony Mony ~ Billy Idol
If I start to repeat other selections, I blame it on the cold meds.
Posted by: Marissa | January 08, 2008 at 03:39 PM
Does anyone else start to go cross-eyed when we start doing the playlists?
Posted by: Marissa | January 08, 2008 at 03:40 PM
Hard to add more, but I'll nominate:
Future's so bright, I gotta wear shades - Timbuk 3
Posted by: Ron | January 08, 2008 at 03:44 PM
Mr. Sean Daly just called on the phone, saying he thinks we can manage 700 comments on this particular comment. I think he's a tad bit optimistic, but I wouldn't mind trying.
Posted by: Spears | January 08, 2008 at 03:52 PM
Wild in the streets - Bon Jovi
Doctor Feel Good - Motley Crue
Paradise City Guns N Roses
Posted by: Jake Grimme From Indiana | January 08, 2008 at 03:58 PM
Ritch in a Ditch -- Klark Kent!
Posted by: jane | January 08, 2008 at 03:59 PM
Keep on loving you - Reo Speedwagon
Posted by: Jake Grimme From Indiana | January 08, 2008 at 04:01 PM
One more Klark Kent tune -- Too Cool to Calypso!
Posted by: jane | January 08, 2008 at 04:04 PM
I Go Crazy - Flesh for Lulu
Miss Amanda Jones -- March Violets
Lawyers in Love -- Jackson Browne
Dancing with Myself -- Billy Idol
Kids in America -- Kim Wilde
Melt with You -- Modern English
Turning Japanese -- The Vapors
It's My Life -- Talk Talk
Words -- Missing Persons
Posted by: Spears | January 08, 2008 at 04:04 PM
Drat -- I totally spelled the name of that tune wrong -- it's "Too Kool to Kalypso"... bad fan! Bad fan!
Posted by: jane | January 08, 2008 at 04:06 PM
Good picks Steve
Posted by: Jake Grimme From Indiana | January 08, 2008 at 04:06 PM
Hey you lurkers out there -- yeah, yeah, you, reading all the comments and not helping out.
This isn't an invitation-only club. It's Stuck in the 80s! And everyone's welcome. Don't be shy about joining in the chat.
Marissa promises a hug and kiss to all lurkers who make their first comment in this blog item.
Posted by: Spears | January 08, 2008 at 04:08 PM
Yeah come on guys join in on the fun!!
you know you want too
Posted by: Jake Grimme From Indiana | January 08, 2008 at 04:10 PM
I know it's counter-intuitive, but I've always found the English Beat's version of "Tears of a Clown" to be quite cheery, despite the sad lyrics.
I think it's the counterpoint of the happy ska beats and the tragic words that makes it such a classic.
Posted by: Jeff in Cuba | January 08, 2008 at 04:24 PM
You Better You Bet-The Who
Ice Cream Man-Van Halen
It's Only Love-Bryan Adams
New Frontier-Donald Fagen
Talk To Ya Later-The Tubes
Posted by: Tom | January 08, 2008 at 04:25 PM
Just a few more:
Party Weekend ~ Joe "King" Carrasco
Tesla Girls ~ OMD
Whirley Girl ~ OXO
I Could Be Happy ~ Altered Images
Don't Fight It ~ Kenny Loggins & Steve Perry
Posted by: Jeff in Cuba | January 08, 2008 at 04:29 PM
Jane, I LOVE the Power Station too!
Popmuzik - M
Rock the Casbah - The Clash
One Night in Bangkok
We're Not Gonna Take It - Twisted Sister
Down Under - Men at Work
Our Lips are Sealed - Go Gos
Perfect Way - Scritti Politti
Hyperactive - Thomas Dolby
Is We're a Happy Family by the Ramones from the 80s? I've lost my cassette tape of that one.
Posted by: Melissa | January 08, 2008 at 04:41 PM
Ew, what about
I Wanna Be Your Lover - Prince
Posted by: Melissa | January 08, 2008 at 04:42 PM
Steve, I have to call you on Birdhouse in your Soul by They Might Be Giants, it came out in 1990. You want a TMBG song on the list go with Don't Let's Start.
Everyone who put a Tubes song on their list are spot on. The Tubes are one of the best 'Fun' bands ever.
One of my favorite songs to listen to to make me feel better is 'Wouldn't It Be Good' by Nik Kershaw.
Posted by: Bassnote | January 08, 2008 at 04:43 PM
Secret of My Success - Night Ranger
Hold On Tight - ELO (aka the "Coffee Achiever" song)
Goody Two Shoes - Adam Ant
Stories For Boys - U2
Burn For You - INXS
Always on My Mind/In My House - Pet Shop Boys
Faith - George Michael
That's enough stream-of-consciousness music picking for now...
Posted by: Brad | January 08, 2008 at 04:45 PM
Except I left out
Wild Wild Life - Talking Heads
Posted by: Brad | January 08, 2008 at 04:48 PM
Coffee Achiever clip on Youtube:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2rea-yBgOSo
(I sure am glad I wasn't making that up.)
Posted by: Brad | January 08, 2008 at 04:50 PM
All right Spears, I'm trying but this is hard. The 80's are a blur for me that began around 1977 and didn't start to clear up until about 1993.
Good Thing - Fine Young Cannibals
Hurts so Good - John Mellencamp
Conga - Miami Sound Machine
Posted by: Ron | January 08, 2008 at 04:51 PM
"Run Run Away" by Slade
Posted by: Hamptune | January 08, 2008 at 04:53 PM
Head Over Heels - Tears For Fears
Stay Up Late - Talking Heads
I Got You - Split Enz
Annie Get Your Gun - Squeeze
Pressure Drop - The Specials
Pretending To Be Drunk - Sparks
Sanctify Yourself - Simple Minds
Red River Rock - Silicon Teens
Love's Got a Line On You - Scandal
Can't Hardly Wait - The Replacements
Rave Up/ Shut Up - The Rave-Ups
Let's Go Crazy - Prince & The Revolution
Don't Get Me Wrong - The Pretenders
Canary In A Coal Mine - The Police
Lights Out - Peter Wolf
Darlington County - Bruce Springsteen
Sledgehammer & Big Time - Peter Gabriel
Press - Paul McCartney
Posted by: Bassnote | January 08, 2008 at 05:00 PM
"Working Day and Night" - Michael Jackson
"Let's Go Crazy" (12 in. version) - Prince
"Wild Wild Life" - Talking Heads
"More Bounce To The Ounce" and "So Ruff, So Tuff" - Zapp
"Wordy Rappinghood" and "Genius Of Love" - Tom Tom Club
"Atomic Dog" - George Clinton
(Funk ALWAYS makes me happy)
Posted by: Clark | January 08, 2008 at 05:03 PM
Hooters, Howard Jones, Big Country, Matthew Wilder - absolutely.
I'd add:
Bizarre Love Triangle - New Order
Bamboleo - Gipsy Kings
Birdhouse in Your Soul - They Might be Giants
Blinded by the Light - Manfred Mann's Earth Band
Borderline - Madonna
Change - John Waite
Chuck E's In Love - Rickie Lee Jones
Ghost in You - Psychedelic Furs
Give Me the Night - George Benson
I.G.Y - Donald Fagen
I'm Gonna Be (500 Miles) - The Proclaimers
It's My Life - Talk Talk
The Look of Love - ABC
Love Touch - Rod Stewart
Me and Bobby D - Everything But The Girl
Miles Away - Basia
More Than This - Roxy Music
New Attitude - Patti Labelle
Oh L'amour - Erasure
Only The Young - Journey
Orinico Flow - Enya
Put The Message In The Box - World Party
Send Me An Angel - Real Life
Smalltown Boy - Bronski Beat
So Alive - Love and Rokets
Solsbury Hill - Peter Gabriel
Something About You - Level 42
Stars - Simply Red
Steppin Out - Joe Jackson
Take On Me - a-Ha
Talking in Your Sleep - Romantics
The One Thing - INXS
Too Late For Goodbyes - Julian Lennon
True Faith - New Order
We'll Be Together - Sting
Wish Me Luck - Ofrah Haza
Your Love - Lime
Posted by: Tonianne | January 08, 2008 at 05:03 PM
First time poster, long time pod cast listener.
Everybody Have Fun Tonight - Wang Chung
The Future's So Bright - Timbuk 3
I Want Candy - Bow Wow Wow
Posted by: Tim in Illinois | January 08, 2008 at 05:07 PM
Moonlighting Theme-Al Jarreau
Hero Takes a Fall-Bangles
The One Thing-INXS
Wasn't That A Party-Irish Rovers
Coming Up-Paul McCartney
Posted by: Tom | January 08, 2008 at 05:09 PM
Why Can't I Be You? - The Cure
Posted by: Melissa | January 08, 2008 at 05:30 PM
Okay, I guess I owe Tim in Illinois a hug and a kiss -- I love when Steve promises me out to people.
Tim, how far are you from Kankakee?
And another song that puts me in a delightful mood is ....
They Don't Know ~ Tracey Ullman
Posted by: Marissa | January 08, 2008 at 05:42 PM
Has anyone suggested
Strip ~ Adam Ant?
That definitely puts me in a happy mood.
Posted by: Marissa | January 08, 2008 at 05:45 PM
Marissa,
I spent my first 18 years of life in Dwight but I now live in Rock Island. I still have most of my family in the Dwight area so I can collect on that hug & kiss anytime;-)
Good call on "Strip"!!!
Posted by: Tim in Illinois | January 08, 2008 at 05:53 PM
Tenderness ~ General Public
Get Outta My Dreams; Into my car ~ Billy Ocean
Dancing on the Ceiling ~ Lionel Richie
Crazy Little Thing Called Love ~ Queen
She's a Beauty ~ The Tubes
Posted by: Marissa | January 08, 2008 at 05:54 PM
Rock Me Amadeus ~ Falco
One Night in Bangkok ~ Murray Head
Genius of Love ~ Tom Tom Club
and I was going to recommend "Catholic Girls" by Frank Zappa, but that's from 1979. boohoo!
Posted by: Marissa | January 08, 2008 at 06:04 PM
Ain't This The Life - Oingo Boingo
Rush Hour - Jane Wiedlin (that little pixie just makes me smile)
Birthday - The Sugarcubes (another pixie)
Right By Your Side - Eurythmics (not a pixie in sight)
Monster - Fred Schneider and the Shake Society (okay, this one is just silly)
Tonight She Comes - The Cars
Caught Up In You - .38 Special
Alive and Kicking - Simple Minds
This is going to be some mix, my friends.
Posted by: Brad | January 08, 2008 at 06:09 PM
Haha Coming Up by Paul McCartney. Thats a great pick ;)
I love anything that sounds like Chequered Love or Dancing With Myself. A little rocky, easy to remember and most of all - fun to listen to... otherwise my list includes..
Altered Images - Happy Birthday
Elvis Costello - Pump It Up
Dennis Waterman - I Could Be So Good For You
Devo - Working In A Coal Mine
Flock Of Seagulls - Space Age Love Song
Huey Lewis & The News - Do You Believe In Love
Loverboy - Working For The Weekend
Michael Jackson - PYT
Violent Femmes - Blister In The Sun
The Young Ones & Cliff Richard - Living Doll
OMD - Locomotion
Rupert Holmes - Escape
Kim Carnes - Crazy In The Night
Split Enz - I See Red
Wham - Wham Rap
Aretha Franklin - Freeway Of Love
Beastie Boys - Girls
The Vapours - Turning Japanese
Terence Trent D'arby - Dance Little Sister
Tommy Tutone - Jenny (8675309)
The Fat Boys - any song!
...and countless others...
Posted by: Richard Phelps | January 08, 2008 at 06:24 PM
Be Near Me - ABC
Goody Two Shoes - Adam Ant
Oh Daddy - Adrian Belew
You Can Do Magic - America
Close (To The Edit) - Art Of Noise
Oh Yeah! - Yellow
The Edge Of Forever - Dream Academy
Some People - Belouis Some
Medicine Show - Big Audio Dynamite
Everybody Wants You - Billy Squire
Every Little Kiss - Bruce Hornsby & The Range
Lonely Nights - Bryan Adams
Don't Be Cruel - Cheap Trick
Should I Stay Or Should I Go - The Clash
Waiting For You - Corey Hart
Posted by: Bassnote | January 08, 2008 at 06:38 PM
These are some of the songs that always make me smile and dance:
Happy Trails - Van Halen
Just Can't Get Enough - Depeche Mode
Turning Japanese - The Vapors
Whip It - Devo
You Spin Me Round (Like a Record) - Dead or Alive
Bad Case of Loving You - Robert Palmer
She Blinded Me with Science - Thomas Dolby
The Swing - INXS
Marissa - I'll pass on the hug and kiss (probably to Steve's dismay).
Posted by: VineyardWoman | January 08, 2008 at 06:41 PM
You got me on the TMBG song. I always thought that was 1989, since I remember where I was living when I got it in the mail -- by mistake -- from the Columbia Records CD Club.
If it helps, I know it was recorded in 1989.
Thanks for joining us, Tim!
Posted by: Spears | January 08, 2008 at 06:45 PM
I wonder if Sean considers "Midnight Blue" a happy tune?
Posted by: Marissa | January 08, 2008 at 06:50 PM
I'm a little late to the party and there have already been a lot of great songs listed... anyway, here is my list
Weird Science - Oingo Bongo
Pink Houses - John Cougar Mellancamp
Lips Like Sugar - Echo and the Bunnymen
Power Of Love - Huey Lewis and the News
I Melt With You - Modern English
Come Dancing - The Kinks
A Little Respect - Erasure
You Might Think - The Cars
Hot In The City - Billy Idol
One Night In Bancock - Murray Head
Land Down Under - Men At Work
Panama - Van Halen
Heat Of The Moment - Asia
Photograph - Def Leppard
Wish I Had A Girl Like That - Henry Lee Summer
Posted by: Ray | January 08, 2008 at 06:53 PM
"Come Dancing" is a brilliant choice, Ray.
And I almost picked "Power of Love" a couple of times, but I was overcome with the spirit. The spirit of Evan Williams.
Posted by: Spears | January 08, 2008 at 07:04 PM
Working in a coal mine - Devo
Dare to me Stupid - Weird Al Yankovic
Living with a Hernia - Weird Al Yankovic
Straight for the Heart - WhiteSnake
Holiday - Madonna
Rattlesnake shake - Skid Row
Girls Girls Girls - Motley Crue
Cherry Pie - Warrant
shy boy - Bananarama
I want Action - Poison
Heavy Metal - Sammy Hagar
Reach Out - Cheap Trick
Posted by: aaron | January 08, 2008 at 07:06 PM
Aaron, you golden god! How could we have left Weird Al off the list so long??
Posted by: Spears | January 08, 2008 at 07:10 PM
Chiming in late... sorry if they've been mentioned.
It's Tricky - Run DMC
Summertime Girls - Y & T
Cool - Morris Day & The Time
When You Close Your Eyes - Nightranger
Shakin' - Eddie Money
Miss Me Blind - Culture Club
Posted by: Carla | January 08, 2008 at 07:17 PM
I've always been a fan of "The Biggest Ball Of Twine In Minnesota"
Another fine 80's song that tells a story and has a happy (if unlikely) ending:
Escape (The Pina Colada Song) - Rupert Holmes
(I hear you arguing "That's a seventies song!" but check this out - it was #1 on Billboard's Hot 100 on January 12th, 1980. Woot!)
Posted by: Brad | January 08, 2008 at 07:17 PM
Rupert Holmes as an 80s act? Jeesh. That's tough to swallow. Didn't he die in a planecrash with the members of Starland Vocal Band?
Posted by: Spears | January 08, 2008 at 07:23 PM
OH Brad! You are a man who is prepared for battle. Smart!
Venus ~ Bananarama (cover, I know)
My Girl ~ Chilliwack (for Sean)
Wings of a Dove ~ Madness (did someone already mention that?)
The Tide is High ~ Blondie
One Way or Another ~ Blondie
Higher Love ~ Steve Winwood
I Feel for You ~ Chaka Khan
Posted by: Marissa | January 08, 2008 at 07:31 PM
I like "Dog Eat Dog" and "King of Suede" by Al. I have his box set "Permanent Record", lots of 80's fun there.
Posted by: Tom | January 08, 2008 at 07:33 PM
Good one Marissa... I love 'I feel for you'.
I'm sure I have more.. I'll be back!
Posted by: Carla | January 08, 2008 at 07:36 PM
yeah! I got some approval. Now I'm doing the happy dance! Thanks Carla!
Posted by: Marissa | January 08, 2008 at 07:38 PM
Still waiting on some approval... lol
c'mon.. How can you not move when "It's Tricky" comes on. At my most recent christmas party.. I thought the place was gonna cave in when that song started... Everyone was up! lol
Posted by: Carla | January 08, 2008 at 07:42 PM
We Close our Eyes & Call Me ~ Go West
Faith ~ George Michael
I Want Your Sex ~ George Michael
I'm sporatic. Sorry,kids.
Posted by: Marissa | January 08, 2008 at 07:44 PM
That's an EXCELLENT tune, Carla. I'm sure SEAN would approve greatly.
Posted by: Marissa | January 08, 2008 at 07:45 PM
"I Feel for You" is indeed a most excellent song -- great groove.
Also "The Glamourous Life" -- Sheila E.
Posted by: jane | January 08, 2008 at 07:52 PM
ahhh, I feel better now Marissa!! And (more than likely) Seans approval! I'm all set!
Posted by: Carla | January 08, 2008 at 07:57 PM
I do believe the ladies have spoken and "I Feel For You" has earned a righteous spot on the list.
Posted by: Marissa | January 08, 2008 at 07:57 PM
He charted in the 80's. I don't like it, but it's true. (And Richard Phelps beat me to it, it's in his comment way up there.)
Sorry chief.
Here's some more music to salve your wounds:
Armageddon It - Def Leppard
High On You - Survivor
Love Somebody - Rick Springfield
C'est La Vie - Robbie Nevil
Turn Up The Radio - Autograph
I Heard A Rumor - Bananarama
Goodbye to You - Scandal
Rockin' The Paradise - Styx
Summer of '69 - Bryan Adams
Runnin' Down a Dream - Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers
Slipping Away - Dave Edmunds
Posted by: Brad | January 08, 2008 at 08:00 PM
Sitting here at work listening to the XM 80's station. How can we have left off the gem currently playing:
Jump (For My Love) - The Pointer Sisters
Posted by: Brad | January 08, 2008 at 08:09 PM
LOL How about this one from the Pointer Sisters "I'm so excited" That one has sentimental reasons for me...boy does it!
Posted by: Marissa | January 08, 2008 at 08:11 PM
Brad.. High On You.. EXCELLENT!
Posted by: Carla | January 08, 2008 at 08:16 PM
One of my favorite movie scenes involves "It's Tricky." Anyone else enjoy the flick "Road Trip"? Dare I say classic?
Posted by: Spears | January 08, 2008 at 08:17 PM
How 'bout:
(Keep Feeling)Facination - Human League
Posted by: Carla | January 08, 2008 at 08:20 PM
Nope. Just you Steve. lol I almost bought that at Target today based on the number of times you've mentioned it.
Posted by: Marissa | January 08, 2008 at 08:21 PM
If I may be permitted to go Canadian for a moment:
Magic Power -- Triumph
How could I have forgotten??
Posted by: Spears | January 08, 2008 at 08:23 PM
Oh come on, I've never mentioned Road Trip before, have I?
Now "Beer Fest" is mentioned all the time. And rightfully so.
Don't even get me started on a list of movies from the last few years that have the spirit of 80s comedy in them...
Posted by: Spears | January 08, 2008 at 08:25 PM
Wake me up before you go go - Wham
A Town Called Malice - The Jam
hot hot hot - Buster Poindexter
Always somthing there to remind me - Nake eyes
Credit Card Baby - Wham
Don't forget me when I'm gone - Glass Tiger
Only in my Dreams - Debbie Gibson
I think We're alone now - Tiffany
Footloose - Kenny Loggins
Posted by: aaron | January 08, 2008 at 08:26 PM
It's a totally awesome suggestion, Carla. I thought so, too around 3:17pm lol but you weren't around then.
Posted by: Marissa | January 08, 2008 at 08:26 PM
Ah, some Glass Tiger. I think we've got a Canadian streak going. Where are my north-of-the-border fans???
Posted by: Spears | January 08, 2008 at 08:27 PM
Perhaps in one of my many dreams about you. you talked about 'Boat Trip'.
It's been mentioned somewhere!
::waiting the fall out from Wake me up before you Go go and HOT HOT HOT:::
Posted by: Marissa | January 08, 2008 at 08:29 PM
Only 599 comments to go to fulfill Sean Daly's prediction of 700 total comments.
Posted by: Spears | January 08, 2008 at 08:29 PM
"Don't forget me when I'm gone" reminds me of this guy I met 3 weeks before my 21st birthday.
Posted by: Marissa | January 08, 2008 at 08:30 PM
Can't confuse the holy trinity of Euro Trip, Boat Trip and Road Trip.
It's a fine troika of movies for a weeknight of drinking.
Posted by: Spears | January 08, 2008 at 08:30 PM
Steve, I hang on your every word. I'm certain you mentioned Road Trip lol
Posted by: Marissa | January 08, 2008 at 08:32 PM
*claps hands in glee*
Way to go aaron, with "A Town Called Malice" -- love The Jam (Start! is another good one)
"Jane's Getting Serious" by Jon Astley and "Jane" by Jefferson Starship also qualify high on the list of happy 80s songs -- or at least they do on my list.
Posted by: jane | January 08, 2008 at 08:32 PM
I could mention another rather 'obscure' 80s song that could bring out the giddiness in some people, but I'll just sit on it for awhile.
Posted by: Marissa | January 08, 2008 at 08:33 PM
While everyone is submitting entries to the playlist, also consider this:
What would be your top 5 picks for a list of the top 50 happiest songs of the 80s?
Time to get serious!
Posted by: Spears | January 08, 2008 at 08:33 PM
Funny, no one has written a song with my name in it yet.
Posted by: Marissa | January 08, 2008 at 08:34 PM
Stay focused, Mr. Spears! This will bring you back. And - dare I say - make the cut for your final list. I give you:
Nobody's Fool - Kenny Loggins
Posted by: Brad | January 08, 2008 at 08:36 PM
Ah, Marissa -- having a name like jane is a blessing and a curse.
Blessing: cool songs with your name in the title.
Curse: Hearing "Jane, you ignorant slut" every Monday morning throughout middle school. Having people ask you where Tarzan and/or Cheetah are. Asking about Dick and Spot and wanting to see you run.
Posted by: jane | January 08, 2008 at 08:39 PM
Sorry Marissa... but great minds think alike! Nope, while you all were coming up with some great songs.. I was slaving away! (no blog access at work).
Posted by: Carla | January 08, 2008 at 08:39 PM
Ah, Marissa -- having a name like jane is a blessing and a curse.
Blessing: cool songs with your name in the title.
Curse: Hearing "Jane, you ignorant s*l*u*t" every Monday morning throughout middle school. Having people ask you where Tarzan and/or Cheetah are. Asking about Dick and Spot and wanting to see you run.
Posted by: jane | January 08, 2008 at 08:40 PM
I don't want to get serious yet. Jeez! I was just starting to have fun. I was on a roll. Now you're asking me to think and compile a noteworthy list of my top 5 happy songs? hmmph
Posted by: Marissa | January 08, 2008 at 08:40 PM
LOL Jane!
Posted by: Marissa | January 08, 2008 at 08:41 PM
LOL.. poor Jane! I'm sure you're sick of it... but it was a classic skit on SNL!!
Posted by: Carla | January 08, 2008 at 08:42 PM
I have no access at work, either, Carla. It's pure torture knowing a blog-fest might be taking place without me. I get home after trying to help other people with their eye issues, and I get all glossy eyed and surly reading the scads of comments.
Wow! I'm winded now.
Posted by: Marissa | January 08, 2008 at 08:43 PM
Wow I came in a little late to this party. My eyes are crossed trying to read all of these great listings. Putting my thinking cap on now.
Posted by: 80sfan | January 08, 2008 at 08:44 PM
This is a temporary list of my top 5 happy songs. I'm just trying to appease Lord God King Steve-o
(which reminds me..how about VALLEY GIRL ~ Moon Unit and Papa Zappa)
Walking On Sunshine ~ Katrina & the Waves
I Feel for You ~ Chaka Khan
Strip ~ Adam Ant
Wings of a Dove ~ Madness
One Way or Another ~ Blondie (a happy song about stalking)
Posted by: Marissa | January 08, 2008 at 08:54 PM
Well, I should say that I can read the blog at work.. but access is blocked when it comes to leaving comments. I still check it when I can, but am usually too busy.
Posted by: Carla | January 08, 2008 at 08:56 PM
Have to leave the party for a little while... a line of Thunder storms are coming through. I'm shutting down the puter. Keep up the excellent lists... yet more I'll owe to itunes!
Posted by: Carla | January 08, 2008 at 09:01 PM
My tentative top five, with a couple of personal prerogative bonuses:
“Every Little Thing She Does is Magic” -- The Police
“I Feel For You” -- Chaka Khan
“Head Over Heels” -- Go-Gos
“Jungle Love” -- Morris Day & the Time
“Kiss” -- Sir Tom Jones and the Art of Noise
Personal bonuses:
“Too Kool to Kalypso” -- Klark Kent
“Don’t Box Me In” -- Stan Ridgway & Stewart Copeland (from Rumble Fish)
Posted by: jane | January 08, 2008 at 09:05 PM
Here's what I have come up with. Keep in mind that "happy" is in the mind of the beholder.
Roam - The B-52's
Jumpin' Jack Flash - Aretha Franklin
Celebrate Youth - Rick Springfield
I'll Tumble 4 Ya - Culture Club
Hot for Teacher - Van Halen
Good Times - INXS & Jimmy Barnes
Holding Out for a Hero - Bonnie Tyler
Party All the Time - Eddie Murphy
Sisters Are Doing It For Themselves - Annie Lennox & Aretha Franklin
I Love Rock N Roll - Joan Jett
Locomotion - Kylie Minogue
All Fired Up - Pat Benatar
Nothing But a Good Time - Poison
Partyman - Prince
Metal Health - Quiet Riot
I Get Excited - Rick Springfield
What I Like About You - The Romantics
Oh Yeah - Yello
Posted by: 80sfan | January 08, 2008 at 09:08 PM
I had them narrowed down to 5, but I haven''t been able to get Michael McDonald out of my head. (Thanks, Bassnote!)
1. And We Danced - Hooters
2. New Song - Howard Jones
3. In a Big Country - Big Country
4. Something About You - Level 42
5. Dancing in the Dark - Bruce Springsteen
6. Sweet Freedom - Michael McDonald
Posted by: Tonianne | January 08, 2008 at 09:08 PM
Oh poop! I forgot about Jungle Love. I danced on a bar in Chicago while that song played.
Posted by: Marissa | January 08, 2008 at 09:10 PM
Five in no order:
Perfect Way - Scritti Politti
Oblivious - Aztec Camera
Right By Your Side - Eurythmics
Nobody's Fool - Kenny Loggins
Wild Wild Life - Talking Heads
Bonus tracks
Rockin' The Paradise - Styx
And We Danced - The Hooters
Something About You - Level 42
Modern Love - David Bowie
Posted by: Brad | January 08, 2008 at 09:13 PM
Great list, Tonianne! I saw The Hooters and Big Country back in the day -- terrific shows both.
There are just way too many songs to choose from...
Posted by: jane | January 08, 2008 at 09:13 PM
OKay, I'm sure I'll get a big nasty BOOOO on this, but I'm taking the chance:
Let's Go! ~ Wang Chung
Posted by: Marissa | January 08, 2008 at 09:15 PM
The top 5 songs that make "me" happy.
Love Shack - The B-52's
I've Done Everything for You - Rick Springfield
Pour Some Sugar on Me - Def Leppard
The Warrior - Scandal
Rock Me Amadeus - Falco
Runners up:
Hit Me With Your Best Shot - Pat Benatar
Bust a Move - Young MC
Desire (Hollywood Remix) - U2
Popmuzik - M (technically 70s)
Posted by: 80sfan | January 08, 2008 at 09:18 PM
I almost threw Wang Chung's "Wake Up Stop Dreaming" (from the To Live And Die In L.A. soundtrack) on the list.
Great song. Great soundtrack. Super-fun band. No booing.
Posted by: Brad | January 08, 2008 at 09:19 PM
I almost put that one on my list Marissa!
Posted by: 80sfan | January 08, 2008 at 09:19 PM
Days Like These ~ Asia
Posted by: Marissa | January 08, 2008 at 09:19 PM
And for the record, I am backing on Jane on her choice of The Power Station's Get It On!
Posted by: 80sfan | January 08, 2008 at 09:20 PM
::running around the room with excitement:: Brad gave me approval on Wang Chung!!!
Posted by: Marissa | January 08, 2008 at 09:21 PM
Anything involving John Taylor gets a high stamp of oh-hell-yes from me.
Posted by: Marissa | January 08, 2008 at 09:22 PM
I'll add "Dance Hall Days" -Wang Chung. In fact, I'm listening to them right now. Great tune!
Posted by: Tom | January 08, 2008 at 09:23 PM
Thank you 80sfan, for the Power Station backing.
You have EXCELLENT taste.
Posted by: jane | January 08, 2008 at 09:25 PM
Is it just me or is that picture of Tom Cruise giving anyone else the creeps?
Posted by: 80sfan | January 08, 2008 at 09:26 PM
LOL
Posted by: Marissa | January 08, 2008 at 09:30 PM
"Looks like University of Illinois"
LOL
Posted by: Tim in Illinois | January 08, 2008 at 09:33 PM
I am going to go out on a limb and add Xanadu to the list.
Posted by: 80sfan | January 08, 2008 at 09:33 PM
Ok Steve,
For music from the Great White North
Saga-On The Loose
Triumph-Magic Power
Triumph-Somebody's Out There
Bob and Doug(with Geddy Lee)-Take Off
Rush-Limelight
Posted by: Tom | January 08, 2008 at 09:34 PM
80sfan, 80sfan, 80sfan. You're glib.
(Sorry, had to.)
Posted by: Tonianne | January 08, 2008 at 09:35 PM
Wow! Did we neglect E L O?
Posted by: Marissa | January 08, 2008 at 09:37 PM
Welcome back Tim!
Posted by: Marissa | January 08, 2008 at 09:41 PM
Okay I just got home a little while ago, I had to go to band practice. I had an 'That's So Good, I Have To Hear It Again' moment in the car. I grabbed a random disc as I was leaving, and just popped it in. About three songs in 'Everybody Wants To Rule The World' by Tears For Fears started playing. I started singing along and getting wrapped up in the guitar solos. As soon as it ended, I hit the repeat button and sang it all over again. That song always makes me feel good. It is definitely in my top 5.
Posted by: Bassnote | January 08, 2008 at 10:21 PM
Marissa, I just zapped you back on myspace.
Posted by: Mike in Austin | January 08, 2008 at 10:47 PM
I saw that! You are one odd bird, Mike
Posted by: Marissa | January 08, 2008 at 11:01 PM
Okay...a little late, but here are my picks (in no particular order):
It's Tricky - Run DMC (and Road Trip cracks me up!)
All Fired Up - Pat Benatar (good pick 80sfan - you were the first person I saw with this in your list)
Bust a Move - Young MC
Goody Two Shoes - Adam Ant
Turning Japanese - The Vapors
(I'm sure I could come up with more, but I'm limiting myself to five since Steve wanted to "get serious.")
Posted by: Shelly | January 08, 2008 at 11:01 PM
Steve said get serious and then stopped commenting. I think he got serious about finding the most comfortable spot on the couch :)
I'm going to go find the most comfortable spot on my bed.
Posted by: Marissa | January 08, 2008 at 11:49 PM
top 5
Rush Hour - Jane Wiedlin
vacation - the go gos
magic - the cars
reach out - Cheap Trick
Dare to be Supid - Weird Al Yankovic
Posted by: aaron | January 09, 2008 at 04:23 AM
Hey gang. Yes, I had a little premature sleep action last night.
Feel free to keep adding new songs to the list, but if you're already added everything you can think of, go ahead and try giving me your top 5.
That's what I meant up there about 8pm last night.
Posted by: Spears | January 09, 2008 at 05:05 AM
Yeah checking the January 1980 chart came in handy, and while I listed Rupert Holmes for the list, it makes me feel everything but happy. Certainly queezy, but not happy.
Cheers for the hawkeyes Brad. Steve, there are far more worse things to swallow about the 80s - but I hear ya!
Posted by: Richard Phelps | January 09, 2008 at 05:15 AM
Steve - does the CMS for the TBT website have a polling function? It might be handy in compiling these lists?
The Police - De Do Do Do De Da Da Da
(Going to their Auckland concert!)
Posted by: Richard Phelps | January 09, 2008 at 05:24 AM
And I thought I was the only one who woke up at this insane hour...
I might need to revisit my selections after sleeping on them. Again, waaaaay too many good songs to choose from here.
Posted by: jane | January 09, 2008 at 05:27 AM
Yes, indeed, Richard. I do have the ability to put a poll on the blog. However, people could only pick one song on it. But I'll try it!
Posted by: Spears | January 09, 2008 at 05:32 AM
Richard! I'm excited for you going to the Auckland show!
I saw Stewart and the boys (for me, he's the real star of the band) twice last summer -- both amazing shows. Will be interested to hear your impressions.
Posted by: jane | January 09, 2008 at 05:40 AM
Jane -- any chance you're going to Night Ranger and Dennis DeYoung next week? Check my latest post out for interesting info on that show.
Posted by: Spears | January 09, 2008 at 06:00 AM
Hmmm... Wasn't planning on going to the show, but this new interesting info might make the price of admission really worthwhile...
Posted by: jane | January 09, 2008 at 06:16 AM
I'm sure there are many that will be neglected, but here are my top five (at the moment).
It's Tricky -