1. I Don't Feel Like Dancin' - Scissor Sisters
I love it! The most exciting #1 single of the year so far, at least for me. Scissor Sisters are fantastic, and while their first album spent several weeks atop the UK albums chart, their singles never performed as well, their previous best being the #5 peak of "Filthy/Gorgeous." "I Don't Feel Like Dancin," despite its title, is the Scissor Sisters most energetic dance/pop throwback yet, featuring Jake Shears' falsetto and a Shears/Babydaddy production that sounds like an ode to the BeeGees.
3. Promiscuous - Nelly Furtado (featuring Timbaland)
In a stiff week of competition, Nelly Furtado has to settle for a #3 placing for "Promiscuous," her second UK single from current album Loose. It lands just 1 spot below her buddy Justin Timberlake's latest hit, "Sexyback," which, like this track, is a Timbaland production. Timberlake even appears in the "Promiscuous" video. Despite not hitting #1, which it did in the US a few months ago, this is still Furtado's second-biggest UK hit, below her last single, the #1 "Maneater."
4. Rudebox - Robbie Williams
Also suffering a lower than might be expected chart placing is Robbie Williams. "Rudebox" is the lead single from Robbie's upcoming 6th album, Rudebox 74. Most of his album's first singles have hit #1 or #2, the big exception before now being Escapology's 2002 lead single "Feel," which also hit #4. "Rudebox" is a departure for Williams, many would say in the wrong direction, as it features him "rapping" during the choruses and has an electronic background. While I don't mind the song, it does sound like it was put together pretty quickly, although I doubt that was the case. It pales in comparison to his last album's debut single, "Tripping," which hit #2 about a year ago. The singles releases from Williams has felt mismanaged lately. "Advertising Space" appeared only 2 months after "Tripping," which hadn't even fallen out of the top 40 yet. Then there was an almost 6 month gap before "Sin Sin Sin" appeared, and charted quite poorly.
6. Chasing Cars - Snow Patrol
Despite a good chunk of high-profile releases, Snow Patrol manages to stay in the top 10 another week--not only that, they climb another spot to a new peak position at #6. Plus, their album, Eyes Open, climbed back to #1 on the UK albums chart this week. Who would have thought that 2006 would be the year Snow Patrol would become a chart powerhouse?
7. It's Not That Easy - Lemar
Lemar, once the 2nd runner-up in the 2002 edition of Fame Academy, returns this week with the lead single from his third album. Winner David Sneddon and runner-up Sinead Quinn are basically forgotten by now, but Lemar has managed to put together quite the pop career. His last album did well with major hit and airplay staple "If There's Any Justice," released at the end of 2004. "It's Not That Easy" is another great soul pop record, and it's a shame it didn't make the top 5, as it's quite decent.
9. Never Be Lonely - The Feeling
I guess I feel a little bit better about this now. I was upset this made only #12 last week, so it's nice to see it climb into the top 10, surpassing the peak of their last single "Fill My Little World." Seems to be an emerging trend that rock singles getting good airplay will actually climb up the chart after their physical release sales week. Who knew?
13. Starlight - Muse
Which might be the ticket for Muse to score another top 10. Their last single, "Supermassive Black Hole" peaked at #4, but didn't have nearly the airplay this track is getting. "Starlight" is a great rock single, with a nice piano backing. It would be cool to see this climb into the top 10 next week.
28. Something About You - Jamelia
R&B/Pop sensation Jamelia is back, charting at #28 this week on downloads sales. Should easily go top 10 next week, although it will have to battle obnoxious Fergie's "London Bridge" (#25 this week).
30. Lucy - Jealousy
This is a cool song and should be charting higher. I especially like the remix.
Sunday, September 10, 2006
Fall Music Preview
Fall is always the most hectic time of year for new releases, marked for its plethora of greatest hits collections and key releases from big-selling artists--both of which timed to sell well during the holidays. Below is my list of highlight releases; click below for additional releases in September through November.
Highlights
Scissor Sisters – Ta-Dah (9/18). The Scissor Sisters had the UK’s best-selling album of 2004, and scored 5 top 40 hits off it, including campy dance floor stompers like “Filthy/Gorgeous” and “Comfortably Numb.” If the new album’s brilliant first single, “I Don’t Feel Like Dancin’,” is any indication of what we’re in for, then this surely won’t disappoint. An advance review by Q Magazine gave it 4 stars. Could very well be my favorite album of the year.
The Killers – Sam’s Town (10/2). The Killers hotly anticipated second album rolls out in October. First single “When You Were Young” is fantastic—a lot like “Mr. Brightside,” but that’s not a bad thing.
Justin Timberlake – FutureSex/LoveSounds (9/11). Justin Timberlake’s 2002 debut, Justified, distanced him from boyband ‘NSync, establishing him as a powerful, instrumental pop force. Four years later, he’s back with second album, permeated by electronic beats courtesy of Timbaland. First single “Sexyback” has already topped both the US and UK singles charts.
Evanescence – The Open Door (10/2). Evanescence’s 2003 album produced two monster hits, “Bring Me to Life” and “My Immortal.” They’re back with second album, the follow-up to Fallen, which was nominated for the best album Grammy Award Now minus Ben Moody, who left the group 2 years ago, as well as Will Boyd. Their sound, judging from first single “Call Me When You’re Sober” hasn’t changed much though, despite the shakeup in members. It’s really Amy Lee, who has a phenomenal voice for single their brand of goth-lite rock, that’s front and center here.
Maroon 5 – The Tears of Medusa (11/14). Little news about this album yet, other than it’s supposed to be a darker affair than their first hugely successful album.
Click below for more upcoming releases.
September
Lemar – The Truth About Love (9/11). Former reality TV star returns with his third album, preceded by beautiful soul single “It’s Not that Easy.”
R.E.M. – And I Feel Fine: Best of the IRS Years 1982 – 1987 (9/11). Basically an expanded version of Eponymous with 42 tracks spread over 2 discs. Includes early favorites like “Driver 8,” “The One I Love,” and “It’s the End of the World as We Know It.”
The Fratellis – Costello Music (9/11). Having already scored top 10s with “Henrietta” and “Chelsea Dagger,” rock band The Fratellis releases their debut album.
Clay Aiken – A Thousand Different Ways (9/19-US). 2003 American Idol runner-up delivers his sophomore disc—with no advance buzz. Is there even a single out? Me thinks the title will refer to how the disc will be used (other than in the CD player, coaster anyone?).
Elton John – The Captain & the Kid (9/18). Elton John is back with songwriting partner Bernie Taupin in a sequel to Captain Fantastic and the Brown Dirt Cowboy. Features advance single piano ballad “The Bridge.”
Fergie – The Duchess (9/18). Black Eyed Peas female lead goes solo to torture us all. Features lead single, the “song” “London Bridge,” a former US #1.
Jojo – The High Road (9/18). Jojo, who made her name with the 2004 #1 hit “Leave (Get Out)” returns with her second pop album, featuring catchy first single “Too Little Too Late.”
Kasabian – Empire (9/18). Kasabian returns with their second album, led by epic first single “Empire.”
T.A.T.U. – The Best of t.A.T.u. (9/18). Russian female duo t.A.T.u., best known for UK #1 hit “All the Things She Said” and for pretending to be lesbians. Presumably will include all 3 of their top 10 hits. Yes, All THREE!!! What a hit machine.
Gloria Estefan – The Essential (9/25). Gloria Estefan conveniently collects the singles from her 1992 and 2001 greatest hits collections, filling in some of the lesser releases that didn’t make those collections, like “Live For Loving You,” “Seal Our Fate,” “Mi Tierra,” and “Hold Me, Thrill Me, Kiss Me,” and “Don’t Let This Moment End.” So, at $25 for 5 extra hits, you’re getting each of these for $5 a piece. Hmm…
Jamelia – Walk with Me (9/25). Jamelia returns with her third album, preceded by hot new single “Something About You.” Good, but can she live up to “Superstar?”
Janet Jackson – 20 Y.O. (9/25). Janet Jackson releases her 9th studio album and attempts to reinvigorate her career after the flop of Damita Jo. First single “Call on Me” has already sputtered off the top 40 chart. Something tells me this is no Emancipation of Mimi.
October
Jet – Shine On (10/2). Australian rock band Jet scored big with “Are You Gonna Be My Girl?” and “Look What You’ve Done” 2 years ago, and return this year with their second album. Haven’t heard the first single yet, “Put Your Money Where Your Mouth Is.”
Ray Charles & Count Basie Orchestra – Ray Sings, Basie Swings (10/2). Ray Charles’s 2004 album, Genius Loves Company, was a best-seller and won the Best Album Grammy Award. This is the second significant posthumous release from Charles, and features archival vocals of Ray from 1973 with updated instrumentation from the current Count Basie Orchestra.
Roxette – A Collection of Roxette Hits, Their 20 Greatest Songs (10/16). Interest in class act Swedish pop duo Roxette may be renewed, thanks to last year’s popular House remake of “Listen to Your Heart” by DHT. This collection features that #1 hit, plus “The Look,” “Joyride,” “It Must Have Been Love,” plus their other major and minor hits.
Robbie Williams – Rudebox 74 (10/23). Robbie Williams releases his 6th studio album of original material, purportedly to be comprised of mostly electro-inspired pop similar to lead single “Rudebox,” which has drawn mixed reviews. Album also may feature a tribute to Madonna.
George Michael – 25: The Best of George Michael (10/30). George Michael put out a best of collection in 1998, which mostly chronicled his solo career to that date, although there was 1 notable omission: the exclusion of the standard version of “I Want Your Sex.” Hopefully this set, will correct that oversight. The “25” refers to his 25 years in the music biz, since the start of Wham. It is assumed this collection will include Wham!’s hits as well as his solo hits, plus his major singles since 1998, “Freeek!”, “Amazing,” “Flawless (Go to the City)” and news tracks, since as this summer’s “An Easier Affair.”
Girls Aloud – The Sound of Girls Aloud: Greatest Hits (10/30). Is it over for Girls Aloud? That’s what the release of a greatest hits album usually signals for pop groups (although Westlife is still kicking 4 years after their hits collection). This will include all the girls’ hits—an impressive 12 top 10 hits spanning three albums amassed over 3.5 years, plus some new tracks.
Kevin Federline – Playing with Fire (10/30). Britney’s husband releases his debut album. Will we be pleasantly surprised? His buzz from the Teen Choice Awards performance was surprisingly good, and he claims that dreadful single “Popozoa” was a joke. We shall see.
November
McFly – McFly (11/6). Rocker boyband McFly release their third album, already preceded by a #1 single this summer, “Please Please.” Radio has turned its back on them, but fans continue to snatch up their singles, all of which have gone top 10 and five have hit #1.
Westlife – The Love Album (11/6). Westlife’s 7th album looks set to be a collection of love song covers--even their standard “studio” albums are mostly covers, so who’ surprised by this? A duet version of “All Out of Love” with Delta Goodrem is supposedly in the works.
Gwen Stefani – L.A.M.B. 2 – The Outtakes (11/13). As if the Love.Angel.Music.Baby remix album wasn’t enough, now we get the outtakes. Wasn’t there supposed to be a second real from her due in late 2005? Guess that’s not happening.
Jamiroquai – High Times: The Singles 1992 – 2006 (11/13). Collecting the singles from Jamiroquai’s six studio albums, plus two new tracks, will complete his contract with Sony. Known mostly in the US for his third album, specifically it’s hit “Virtual Insanity,” Jamiroquai has had numerous UK hits, including #1 single “Deeper Underground” and top 10 hits “Canned Heat,” “Little L” and “Feels Just Like It Should.”
Sugababes – Overloaded: The Singles Collection (11/13). The title here is a misnomer, as the rumor is that this album will 1) NOT include all of their singles, and 2) will feature re-recorded versions of the group’s older singles by its current lineup, which I think is a big BIG mistake. New single “Easy” will precede the collection.
Oasis – Stop the Clocks (Greatest Hits) (11/20). Oasis will finally release a greatest hits album this fall, spanning their 12-year, 6 album career. No tracklist yet, could be 2 discs, may include all of their singles, or just the band’s favorites.
Highlights
Scissor Sisters – Ta-Dah (9/18). The Scissor Sisters had the UK’s best-selling album of 2004, and scored 5 top 40 hits off it, including campy dance floor stompers like “Filthy/Gorgeous” and “Comfortably Numb.” If the new album’s brilliant first single, “I Don’t Feel Like Dancin’,” is any indication of what we’re in for, then this surely won’t disappoint. An advance review by Q Magazine gave it 4 stars. Could very well be my favorite album of the year.
The Killers – Sam’s Town (10/2). The Killers hotly anticipated second album rolls out in October. First single “When You Were Young” is fantastic—a lot like “Mr. Brightside,” but that’s not a bad thing.
Justin Timberlake – FutureSex/LoveSounds (9/11). Justin Timberlake’s 2002 debut, Justified, distanced him from boyband ‘NSync, establishing him as a powerful, instrumental pop force. Four years later, he’s back with second album, permeated by electronic beats courtesy of Timbaland. First single “Sexyback” has already topped both the US and UK singles charts.
Evanescence – The Open Door (10/2). Evanescence’s 2003 album produced two monster hits, “Bring Me to Life” and “My Immortal.” They’re back with second album, the follow-up to Fallen, which was nominated for the best album Grammy Award Now minus Ben Moody, who left the group 2 years ago, as well as Will Boyd. Their sound, judging from first single “Call Me When You’re Sober” hasn’t changed much though, despite the shakeup in members. It’s really Amy Lee, who has a phenomenal voice for single their brand of goth-lite rock, that’s front and center here.
Maroon 5 – The Tears of Medusa (11/14). Little news about this album yet, other than it’s supposed to be a darker affair than their first hugely successful album.
Click below for more upcoming releases.
September
Lemar – The Truth About Love (9/11). Former reality TV star returns with his third album, preceded by beautiful soul single “It’s Not that Easy.”
R.E.M. – And I Feel Fine: Best of the IRS Years 1982 – 1987 (9/11). Basically an expanded version of Eponymous with 42 tracks spread over 2 discs. Includes early favorites like “Driver 8,” “The One I Love,” and “It’s the End of the World as We Know It.”
The Fratellis – Costello Music (9/11). Having already scored top 10s with “Henrietta” and “Chelsea Dagger,” rock band The Fratellis releases their debut album.
Clay Aiken – A Thousand Different Ways (9/19-US). 2003 American Idol runner-up delivers his sophomore disc—with no advance buzz. Is there even a single out? Me thinks the title will refer to how the disc will be used (other than in the CD player, coaster anyone?).
Elton John – The Captain & the Kid (9/18). Elton John is back with songwriting partner Bernie Taupin in a sequel to Captain Fantastic and the Brown Dirt Cowboy. Features advance single piano ballad “The Bridge.”
Fergie – The Duchess (9/18). Black Eyed Peas female lead goes solo to torture us all. Features lead single, the “song” “London Bridge,” a former US #1.
Jojo – The High Road (9/18). Jojo, who made her name with the 2004 #1 hit “Leave (Get Out)” returns with her second pop album, featuring catchy first single “Too Little Too Late.”
Kasabian – Empire (9/18). Kasabian returns with their second album, led by epic first single “Empire.”
T.A.T.U. – The Best of t.A.T.u. (9/18). Russian female duo t.A.T.u., best known for UK #1 hit “All the Things She Said” and for pretending to be lesbians. Presumably will include all 3 of their top 10 hits. Yes, All THREE!!! What a hit machine.
Gloria Estefan – The Essential (9/25). Gloria Estefan conveniently collects the singles from her 1992 and 2001 greatest hits collections, filling in some of the lesser releases that didn’t make those collections, like “Live For Loving You,” “Seal Our Fate,” “Mi Tierra,” and “Hold Me, Thrill Me, Kiss Me,” and “Don’t Let This Moment End.” So, at $25 for 5 extra hits, you’re getting each of these for $5 a piece. Hmm…
Jamelia – Walk with Me (9/25). Jamelia returns with her third album, preceded by hot new single “Something About You.” Good, but can she live up to “Superstar?”
Janet Jackson – 20 Y.O. (9/25). Janet Jackson releases her 9th studio album and attempts to reinvigorate her career after the flop of Damita Jo. First single “Call on Me” has already sputtered off the top 40 chart. Something tells me this is no Emancipation of Mimi.
October
Jet – Shine On (10/2). Australian rock band Jet scored big with “Are You Gonna Be My Girl?” and “Look What You’ve Done” 2 years ago, and return this year with their second album. Haven’t heard the first single yet, “Put Your Money Where Your Mouth Is.”
Ray Charles & Count Basie Orchestra – Ray Sings, Basie Swings (10/2). Ray Charles’s 2004 album, Genius Loves Company, was a best-seller and won the Best Album Grammy Award. This is the second significant posthumous release from Charles, and features archival vocals of Ray from 1973 with updated instrumentation from the current Count Basie Orchestra.
Roxette – A Collection of Roxette Hits, Their 20 Greatest Songs (10/16). Interest in class act Swedish pop duo Roxette may be renewed, thanks to last year’s popular House remake of “Listen to Your Heart” by DHT. This collection features that #1 hit, plus “The Look,” “Joyride,” “It Must Have Been Love,” plus their other major and minor hits.
Robbie Williams – Rudebox 74 (10/23). Robbie Williams releases his 6th studio album of original material, purportedly to be comprised of mostly electro-inspired pop similar to lead single “Rudebox,” which has drawn mixed reviews. Album also may feature a tribute to Madonna.
George Michael – 25: The Best of George Michael (10/30). George Michael put out a best of collection in 1998, which mostly chronicled his solo career to that date, although there was 1 notable omission: the exclusion of the standard version of “I Want Your Sex.” Hopefully this set, will correct that oversight. The “25” refers to his 25 years in the music biz, since the start of Wham. It is assumed this collection will include Wham!’s hits as well as his solo hits, plus his major singles since 1998, “Freeek!”, “Amazing,” “Flawless (Go to the City)” and news tracks, since as this summer’s “An Easier Affair.”
Girls Aloud – The Sound of Girls Aloud: Greatest Hits (10/30). Is it over for Girls Aloud? That’s what the release of a greatest hits album usually signals for pop groups (although Westlife is still kicking 4 years after their hits collection). This will include all the girls’ hits—an impressive 12 top 10 hits spanning three albums amassed over 3.5 years, plus some new tracks.
Kevin Federline – Playing with Fire (10/30). Britney’s husband releases his debut album. Will we be pleasantly surprised? His buzz from the Teen Choice Awards performance was surprisingly good, and he claims that dreadful single “Popozoa” was a joke. We shall see.
November
McFly – McFly (11/6). Rocker boyband McFly release their third album, already preceded by a #1 single this summer, “Please Please.” Radio has turned its back on them, but fans continue to snatch up their singles, all of which have gone top 10 and five have hit #1.
Westlife – The Love Album (11/6). Westlife’s 7th album looks set to be a collection of love song covers--even their standard “studio” albums are mostly covers, so who’ surprised by this? A duet version of “All Out of Love” with Delta Goodrem is supposedly in the works.
Gwen Stefani – L.A.M.B. 2 – The Outtakes (11/13). As if the Love.Angel.Music.Baby remix album wasn’t enough, now we get the outtakes. Wasn’t there supposed to be a second real from her due in late 2005? Guess that’s not happening.
Jamiroquai – High Times: The Singles 1992 – 2006 (11/13). Collecting the singles from Jamiroquai’s six studio albums, plus two new tracks, will complete his contract with Sony. Known mostly in the US for his third album, specifically it’s hit “Virtual Insanity,” Jamiroquai has had numerous UK hits, including #1 single “Deeper Underground” and top 10 hits “Canned Heat,” “Little L” and “Feels Just Like It Should.”
Sugababes – Overloaded: The Singles Collection (11/13). The title here is a misnomer, as the rumor is that this album will 1) NOT include all of their singles, and 2) will feature re-recorded versions of the group’s older singles by its current lineup, which I think is a big BIG mistake. New single “Easy” will precede the collection.
Oasis – Stop the Clocks (Greatest Hits) (11/20). Oasis will finally release a greatest hits album this fall, spanning their 12-year, 6 album career. No tracklist yet, could be 2 discs, may include all of their singles, or just the band’s favorites.
Saturday, September 09, 2006
Bond Theme Announced
Chris Cornell of Audioslave has been tapped to perform the theme song for the next James Bond film, Casino Royale, out this November. The track, "You Know My Name," will be a collaboration with the movie's composer, David Arnold, who has composed the score for the last three Bond Films.
"You Know My Name" will be the first Bond theme since 1983's "All Time High" (from "Octopussy") not to share the name of the film. It's really no surprise to me, as I never expected anyone to sing a song called "Casino Royale." Chris Cornell is a surprise however, as Bond hasn't had a hard rocker singer yet. I was really hoping Goldfrapp would do it, as their sound is perfect for a Bond theme. They were even rumored to be doing it at one point. Maybe for the 22nd Bond film.
While we're on the subject, why not run down my favorite Bond themes? I've been on a real Bond kick lately, and this is probably the best chance I have to write about it in my popular music blog.
Best Bond Themes:
1. We Have All the Time in the World (From "On Her Majesty's Secret Service")" - Louis Armstrong
This is an elegant, arresting song, that works perfectly in the film to underscore the rarely seen tender side of James Bond as he--for the first and only time--fell in love. It's a beautiful song with gentle acoustic guitar and lush strings.
2. Moonraker - Shirley Bassey
"Goldfinger" is more famous, but too over the top. This more restrained vocal showcases Bassey's voice better, and she sounds lovely in this lush, mysterious opening credits sequence song.
3. You Only Live Twice - Nancy Sinatra
A beautiful credits-sequence song, with a underlying Asian influence that perfectly compliments the Japanese setting of the film. The memorable string refrain was later famously sampled in Robbie Williams' #1 hit "Millennium."
4. Nobody Does it Better (From "The Spy Who Loved Me") - Carly Simon
The retro/bassnova/jazzy spy sound is usually a requirement to deliver a good Bond theme. Simon avoids that in favor of a more traditional piano/strings/band composition, that turns out to be quite effective and memorable.
5. The World is Not Enough - Garbage
Easily the best Bond theme from the Brosnan era, Garbage's track is a dramatic, dark, and swirling affair that delivers a sexy, epic sound without going over the top (for that, see Sheryl Crow's "Tomorrow Never Dies").
Also Good: For Your Eyes Only (Sheena Easton), Goldfinger (Shirley Bassey), Diamonds Are Forever (Shirley Bassey), Live and let Die (Paul McCartney & Wings), and A View to a Kill (Duran Duran).
Not so Good:
Thunderball - Tom Jones
This sounds too much like a male take on "Goldfinger," which was the first Bond theme to gain massive popularity. It was also a last minute replacement for "Mr. Kiss Kiss Bang Bang," which much of the film's score had been based upon. Apparently Tom Jones passed out from hitting the song's final high note.
The Man with the Golden Gun - Lulu
The film is often regarded as the worst Bond movie, and this uninspired theme matches it just right. The '70s electric guitars just don't match the attempt to emulate the '60s spy movie sound established by the earlier films. Lulu doesn't sound that interested in what's going either, and who could blame her?
Goldeneye - Tina Turner
Don't get me wrong--Tina Turner is a fabulous singer, but this composition just missed the mark. It's kind of boring for a Bond theme, especially for such an exciting movie as Goldeneye was.
Tomorrow Never Dies - Sheryl Crow
If "Goldeneye" was too restrained, then "Tomorrow Never Dies" was too over the top. It starts off with a cacaphonous bang that sounds like bombs dropping, before Sheryl Crow starts in with her usually lovely voice, but then she goes too far for the screeching chorus, which is almost painful to listen to. Kind of a mess.
Die Another Day - Madonna
I am, of course, a die hard Madonna fan, and I do love this song. So why's it on my "worst of" Bond list? Because it doesn't sound like a Bond theme! It sounds like a Madonna song, which is fine, but she seemed unwilling to abandon her Mirwais-electro schtick to actually attempt something Bondian. Bond doesn't dance in Euro clubs. He stalks around exotic international locals with beautiful women, martinis, and a baretta. I just don't get any of that from this song.
"You Know My Name" will be the first Bond theme since 1983's "All Time High" (from "Octopussy") not to share the name of the film. It's really no surprise to me, as I never expected anyone to sing a song called "Casino Royale." Chris Cornell is a surprise however, as Bond hasn't had a hard rocker singer yet. I was really hoping Goldfrapp would do it, as their sound is perfect for a Bond theme. They were even rumored to be doing it at one point. Maybe for the 22nd Bond film.
While we're on the subject, why not run down my favorite Bond themes? I've been on a real Bond kick lately, and this is probably the best chance I have to write about it in my popular music blog.
Best Bond Themes:
1. We Have All the Time in the World (From "On Her Majesty's Secret Service")" - Louis Armstrong
This is an elegant, arresting song, that works perfectly in the film to underscore the rarely seen tender side of James Bond as he--for the first and only time--fell in love. It's a beautiful song with gentle acoustic guitar and lush strings.
2. Moonraker - Shirley Bassey
"Goldfinger" is more famous, but too over the top. This more restrained vocal showcases Bassey's voice better, and she sounds lovely in this lush, mysterious opening credits sequence song.
3. You Only Live Twice - Nancy Sinatra
A beautiful credits-sequence song, with a underlying Asian influence that perfectly compliments the Japanese setting of the film. The memorable string refrain was later famously sampled in Robbie Williams' #1 hit "Millennium."
4. Nobody Does it Better (From "The Spy Who Loved Me") - Carly Simon
The retro/bassnova/jazzy spy sound is usually a requirement to deliver a good Bond theme. Simon avoids that in favor of a more traditional piano/strings/band composition, that turns out to be quite effective and memorable.
5. The World is Not Enough - Garbage
Easily the best Bond theme from the Brosnan era, Garbage's track is a dramatic, dark, and swirling affair that delivers a sexy, epic sound without going over the top (for that, see Sheryl Crow's "Tomorrow Never Dies").
Also Good: For Your Eyes Only (Sheena Easton), Goldfinger (Shirley Bassey), Diamonds Are Forever (Shirley Bassey), Live and let Die (Paul McCartney & Wings), and A View to a Kill (Duran Duran).
Not so Good:
Thunderball - Tom Jones
This sounds too much like a male take on "Goldfinger," which was the first Bond theme to gain massive popularity. It was also a last minute replacement for "Mr. Kiss Kiss Bang Bang," which much of the film's score had been based upon. Apparently Tom Jones passed out from hitting the song's final high note.
The Man with the Golden Gun - Lulu
The film is often regarded as the worst Bond movie, and this uninspired theme matches it just right. The '70s electric guitars just don't match the attempt to emulate the '60s spy movie sound established by the earlier films. Lulu doesn't sound that interested in what's going either, and who could blame her?
Goldeneye - Tina Turner
Don't get me wrong--Tina Turner is a fabulous singer, but this composition just missed the mark. It's kind of boring for a Bond theme, especially for such an exciting movie as Goldeneye was.
Tomorrow Never Dies - Sheryl Crow
If "Goldeneye" was too restrained, then "Tomorrow Never Dies" was too over the top. It starts off with a cacaphonous bang that sounds like bombs dropping, before Sheryl Crow starts in with her usually lovely voice, but then she goes too far for the screeching chorus, which is almost painful to listen to. Kind of a mess.
Die Another Day - Madonna
I am, of course, a die hard Madonna fan, and I do love this song. So why's it on my "worst of" Bond list? Because it doesn't sound like a Bond theme! It sounds like a Madonna song, which is fine, but she seemed unwilling to abandon her Mirwais-electro schtick to actually attempt something Bondian. Bond doesn't dance in Euro clubs. He stalks around exotic international locals with beautiful women, martinis, and a baretta. I just don't get any of that from this song.
UK Singles Chart Analysis, 9/9/2006
1. Sexyback – Justin Timberlake
There’s an amazing amount of symmetry between the UK and US singles charts this week. Three singles occupy spots in the top 10 in both countries—two of which at the same position, Snow Patrol at #7 with “Chasing Cars,” and at #1, Justin Timberlake’s ”Sexyback” (Cassie’s “Me & U” is also in both top 10s, at #9 in the UK and #10 in the US). This is the third single this year to hit #1 in both countries, followed by Ne-Yo’s “So Sick” and Shakira’s “Hips Don’t Lie.” It’s been an interesting year to see the US and UK singles chart become more in sync, after a period where the UK chart turned over very quickly, while singles on the US chart were quite static.
“Sexyback” is Justin Timberlake’s 5th solo top 40 hit, his 4th top 10 hit, and first #1. Three of his previous singles peaked at #2—“Like I Love You,” “Cry Me a River,” and “Rock Your Body,” while his first album’s last single, “Senorita,” settled just a little ways outside the top 10 at #13. It’s been almost 3 three years since that last solo single, although Timberlake did make a guest appearance on Snoop Dogg’s 2005 #2 hit “Signs.” “Sexyback,” with its computerized vocals and heavy electro beats, marks a change of direction for Timberlake, who’s first album was filled with hip-hop/R&B sounds and hooks courtesy of hot-as-ever producer Timbaland, who is also responsible for much of Timberlake’s new album, including this single.
4. I Don’t Feel Like Dancin’ – Scissor Sisters
Scissor Sisters storm the top 10 on downloads-only sales for “I Don’t Feel Like Dancin’,” first single from forthcoming sophomore album Ta-Dah. By debuting at #4, this is already the highest-charting Scissor Sisters single ever, their previous best being the #5 peak of “Filthy/Gorgeous” in the post-Christmas slump of January 2005. The track is easily on course then to become their biggest hit, as it will surely top the chart next week, despite some serious competition with new singles from Nelly Furtado, Robbie Williams, and Lemar. Despite having the UK’s best-selling album of 2004, the group’s singles fared surprisingly poorly: “Comfortably Numb,” hit #10, but “Take Your Mama” only managed #17, followed by “Laura” at #12 and “Mary” at #14, although “Mary” did manage to top the airplay chart, as did “Filthy/Gorgeous.”
7. Chasing Cars – Snow Patrol
Snow Patrol’s “Chasing Cars” manages to hold on to its peak position of #7 this week, despite this being now the single’s 7th week on the chart. In a nice bit of symmetry, as stated above, it’s also #7 in the US, where it’s climbing fast both in sales and airplay. I think it’s now official to say this is their biggest hit.
11. U + Ur Hand - Pink
12. Never Be Lonely – The Feeling
Just outside the top 10 are the third singles for two acts that have performed well on the chart this year, and, in my opinion, should have returned to the top 10 with these worthy singles. Pink, who’s career looked all but over after the disappointing performance of singles from her third album, rebounded spectacularly this year with two top 5 singles, “Stupid Girls” and “Who Knew,” both of which had long runs on the chart, scored well on the airplay chart, and were her biggest hits in 3 years. “U + Ur Hand,” a snide slap at a guy who dared to hit on pink when she wasn’t in the mood, is another great slice of power pop from Pink, who’s proven herself to be even more interesting than we thought this year with an album that dogs celebrities, explores sexuality, and even swipes at the president.
Even more devastating is that The Feeling’s “Never Be Lonely” didn’t reach the top 10. This is the third and best single from the group this year, which hit #7 in March with “Sewn” and #10 in June with “Fill My Little World.” “Never Be Lonely” is a pure joy of a pop/rock record, and it’s spent the last couple of weeks at #2 on the UK airplay chart. It should have been top 10—top 5 even this week.
15. Promiscuous – Nelly Furtado featuring Timbaland
Nelly Furtado is working her massive US #1 hit “Promiscuous” in the UK now, having selected “Maneater” as Britain’s first Loose single, which was #1 only a couple of months ago. “Promiscuous” will probably miss out on #1 next week when its physical single is released, but only because it is a very competitive week. If it had been released 2 weeks ago, it easily would have been at #1.
30. Rudebox – Robbie Williams
Also looking to score big next week is Robbie Williams, returning with the debut track to his 7th album. The outlook for “Rudebox” is actually not so good, as it has been panned by critics as a “career suicide” release. I actually don’t mind the track, but it is very odd, and not a good direction for Robbie. Too bad, since his last album launched with the brilliant release “Tripping,” probably his best single beside “Angels” and “Millennium.”
There’s an amazing amount of symmetry between the UK and US singles charts this week. Three singles occupy spots in the top 10 in both countries—two of which at the same position, Snow Patrol at #7 with “Chasing Cars,” and at #1, Justin Timberlake’s ”Sexyback” (Cassie’s “Me & U” is also in both top 10s, at #9 in the UK and #10 in the US). This is the third single this year to hit #1 in both countries, followed by Ne-Yo’s “So Sick” and Shakira’s “Hips Don’t Lie.” It’s been an interesting year to see the US and UK singles chart become more in sync, after a period where the UK chart turned over very quickly, while singles on the US chart were quite static.
“Sexyback” is Justin Timberlake’s 5th solo top 40 hit, his 4th top 10 hit, and first #1. Three of his previous singles peaked at #2—“Like I Love You,” “Cry Me a River,” and “Rock Your Body,” while his first album’s last single, “Senorita,” settled just a little ways outside the top 10 at #13. It’s been almost 3 three years since that last solo single, although Timberlake did make a guest appearance on Snoop Dogg’s 2005 #2 hit “Signs.” “Sexyback,” with its computerized vocals and heavy electro beats, marks a change of direction for Timberlake, who’s first album was filled with hip-hop/R&B sounds and hooks courtesy of hot-as-ever producer Timbaland, who is also responsible for much of Timberlake’s new album, including this single.
4. I Don’t Feel Like Dancin’ – Scissor Sisters
Scissor Sisters storm the top 10 on downloads-only sales for “I Don’t Feel Like Dancin’,” first single from forthcoming sophomore album Ta-Dah. By debuting at #4, this is already the highest-charting Scissor Sisters single ever, their previous best being the #5 peak of “Filthy/Gorgeous” in the post-Christmas slump of January 2005. The track is easily on course then to become their biggest hit, as it will surely top the chart next week, despite some serious competition with new singles from Nelly Furtado, Robbie Williams, and Lemar. Despite having the UK’s best-selling album of 2004, the group’s singles fared surprisingly poorly: “Comfortably Numb,” hit #10, but “Take Your Mama” only managed #17, followed by “Laura” at #12 and “Mary” at #14, although “Mary” did manage to top the airplay chart, as did “Filthy/Gorgeous.”
7. Chasing Cars – Snow Patrol
Snow Patrol’s “Chasing Cars” manages to hold on to its peak position of #7 this week, despite this being now the single’s 7th week on the chart. In a nice bit of symmetry, as stated above, it’s also #7 in the US, where it’s climbing fast both in sales and airplay. I think it’s now official to say this is their biggest hit.
11. U + Ur Hand - Pink
12. Never Be Lonely – The Feeling
Just outside the top 10 are the third singles for two acts that have performed well on the chart this year, and, in my opinion, should have returned to the top 10 with these worthy singles. Pink, who’s career looked all but over after the disappointing performance of singles from her third album, rebounded spectacularly this year with two top 5 singles, “Stupid Girls” and “Who Knew,” both of which had long runs on the chart, scored well on the airplay chart, and were her biggest hits in 3 years. “U + Ur Hand,” a snide slap at a guy who dared to hit on pink when she wasn’t in the mood, is another great slice of power pop from Pink, who’s proven herself to be even more interesting than we thought this year with an album that dogs celebrities, explores sexuality, and even swipes at the president.
Even more devastating is that The Feeling’s “Never Be Lonely” didn’t reach the top 10. This is the third and best single from the group this year, which hit #7 in March with “Sewn” and #10 in June with “Fill My Little World.” “Never Be Lonely” is a pure joy of a pop/rock record, and it’s spent the last couple of weeks at #2 on the UK airplay chart. It should have been top 10—top 5 even this week.
15. Promiscuous – Nelly Furtado featuring Timbaland
Nelly Furtado is working her massive US #1 hit “Promiscuous” in the UK now, having selected “Maneater” as Britain’s first Loose single, which was #1 only a couple of months ago. “Promiscuous” will probably miss out on #1 next week when its physical single is released, but only because it is a very competitive week. If it had been released 2 weeks ago, it easily would have been at #1.
30. Rudebox – Robbie Williams
Also looking to score big next week is Robbie Williams, returning with the debut track to his 7th album. The outlook for “Rudebox” is actually not so good, as it has been panned by critics as a “career suicide” release. I actually don’t mind the track, but it is very odd, and not a good direction for Robbie. Too bad, since his last album launched with the brilliant release “Tripping,” probably his best single beside “Angels” and “Millennium.”
Thursday, September 07, 2006
Madonna Single: "Dress You Up" (1985)
Madonna
“Dress You Up”
Release: July 24, 1985 (US)
1. Dress You Up
2. Shoo-Bee-Doo
Producer: Nile Rodgers
Songwriters: Andrea LaRusso and Peggy Stanziale
Billboard Hot 100: #5
UK Singles Chart: #5
“Dress You Up” was the fourth and final single from Like a Virgin, which became Madonna’s 4th top 5 hit in the US in 1985. In Britain, it was released just before Christmas, becoming her 8th top 5 hit for 1985, a truly amazing run that included Like a Virgin (#3 Jan.), Material Girl (#3 March), Crazy for You (#2 June), Into the Groove (#1 Aug.), Holiday (#2 Aug.), Angel (#5 Sept.), and Gambler (#4 Oct.).
The song is typical of the predominant Like a Virgin sound, hardly straying from the driving synth bass of “Angel” or the effervescent pop of “Like a Virgin.” Madonna coos in her higher range with an exceptional amount of reverb. The song uses fashion, specifically dressing a man, as a sexual metaphor. This drew the ire of the Parents Music Resource Center (PMRC), a group formed by four influential Washington wives, including Tipper Gore. The PMRC put out a list of the “filthy fifteen” songs they found most offensive, which included “Dress You Up,” as well as Cyndi Lauper’s “She Bop,” which was cited for sex and masturbation. This action by the PMRC is credited as leading to the creation of the “Parental Advisory” sticker, still used today voluntarily by record companies to warn consumers about music they may find offensive because of language or subject matter.
The video is taken from Like a Virgin Tour concert footage and was directed by Danny Kleinman.
Monday, August 28, 2006
Madonna single: Into the Groove (1985)
Madonna
“Into the Groove”
Release: July 9, 1985
1. Into the Groove
2. Shoo-Bee-Doo
Producers: Madonna and Stephen Bray
Songwriters: Madonna and Stephen Bray
UK Singles Chart: #1 (4 weeks)
Billboard Dance Chart: #1 (1 week)
Desperately Seeking Susan was Madonna’s big break into the movie business. Playing a supporting part against Rosanna Arquette’s lead, Madonna steals the show as title character Susan, giving Madonna early screen success that would be followed by a string of duds. To promote the film and take advantage of Madonna’s burgeoning music career, she recorded “Into the Groove” for the movie’s soundtrack.
“Into the Groove” is a driving dance track with prominent drums, synthesizers, and Madonna’s endless enticements to get up and dance as a sexual come on. “You can dance for inspiration, come on, I’m waiting,” she coos during the song’s intro. Shep Pettibone, who would go on to produce “Vogue” and the Erotica album, remixed “Into the Groove” in 1987 for inclusion on the You Can Dance collection, which was named for one of the song’s lyrics. His production enhances the original composition without changing its core sound and adds a vital element—an effective and energetic keyboard solo during the song’s bridge. This version was edited down for The Immaculate Collection, and is the one usually heard on the radio today.
“Into the Groove” is Madonna’s best early dance track, and it has become a true Madonna classic, despite the fact that it was never officially released as a single in the US. The song was included as a B-side to the release of “Angel,” which became a top 10 hit. Even though it wasn’t in stores, “Into the Groove” was all over the radio, peaking at #6 on top 40 airplay charts. It continues to be a staple among adult top 40 stations.
Outside the US, the single was an official release and a huge hit. In the UK, it became Madonna’s first #1 hit, spending 4 weeks at the top, a run Madonna’s matched only by “Vogue.” Madonna was all over the charts in 1985. During “Into the Groove’s” third week at #1 in the UK, Madonna also held #2 with a re-release of “Holiday;” “Crazy For You” was also still in the top 20.
Sadly, like many Madonna singles of the time, “Into the Groove” lacks a proper video, but there was a clip video edited from Desperately Seeking Susan footage.
Sunday, August 27, 2006
UK Chart Analysis, 9/2/2006
1. Déjà vu – Beyonce (featuring Jay-Z)
It’s still the dog days of summer for the British singles chart. Sure, some hot fall releases are just around the corner (Justin Timberlake, Scissor Sisters, The Feeling, Lemar, and Robbie Williams all have singles coming out in the next 2 weeks). Meanwhile, the relative lack of hot new releases means Beyonce lands her second #1 UK hit with a rather lackluster track. Mildly better than winter’s “Check On It,” which hit #3, “Déjà vu” has been a real disappointment in the US, where it managed to peak at #4, but only because of a sales bubble. I expected something similar for the UK, so behold my surprise that it manages to actually unseat on of the year’s biggest hits, “Hips Don’t Lie,” from its 5-week perch at #1.
7. Chasing Cars – Snow Patrol
This is the only other news in the top 10—Snow Patrol’s amazing little single that just won’t go away. Like the little engine that could, this single has moved 25-15-13-10-12-7 over the last 6 weeks. It now ties previous single “You’re All I Have,” which peaked at #7. In the US it continues to rise too, up into the top 30 of the Billboard Hot 100 this week. Snow Patrol’s album, Eyes Open, reclaims the #1 spot on the UK albums chart this week.
13. Sexyback – Justin Timberlake
JT returns to the UK top 40 this week. Out next week, it’s a sure thing for #1.
20. Crystal Ball – Keane
This is very disappointing. Keane is a top British band, “Crystal Ball” is a great track, and they’ve even been in the tabloids recently because of singer Tom Chaplin’s rehab admission. Sadly, it becomes their smallest-charting hit to date, 2 spots lower than the 4th single from their last album, “This Is the Last Time.”
24. Never Be Lonely – The Feeling
If Keane’s having an off year, then new band The Feeling is really on a roll. “Never Be Lonely” is #2 on the airplay chart this week and should surely give the band their 3rd top 10 hit next week.
It’s still the dog days of summer for the British singles chart. Sure, some hot fall releases are just around the corner (Justin Timberlake, Scissor Sisters, The Feeling, Lemar, and Robbie Williams all have singles coming out in the next 2 weeks). Meanwhile, the relative lack of hot new releases means Beyonce lands her second #1 UK hit with a rather lackluster track. Mildly better than winter’s “Check On It,” which hit #3, “Déjà vu” has been a real disappointment in the US, where it managed to peak at #4, but only because of a sales bubble. I expected something similar for the UK, so behold my surprise that it manages to actually unseat on of the year’s biggest hits, “Hips Don’t Lie,” from its 5-week perch at #1.
7. Chasing Cars – Snow Patrol
This is the only other news in the top 10—Snow Patrol’s amazing little single that just won’t go away. Like the little engine that could, this single has moved 25-15-13-10-12-7 over the last 6 weeks. It now ties previous single “You’re All I Have,” which peaked at #7. In the US it continues to rise too, up into the top 30 of the Billboard Hot 100 this week. Snow Patrol’s album, Eyes Open, reclaims the #1 spot on the UK albums chart this week.
13. Sexyback – Justin Timberlake
JT returns to the UK top 40 this week. Out next week, it’s a sure thing for #1.
20. Crystal Ball – Keane
This is very disappointing. Keane is a top British band, “Crystal Ball” is a great track, and they’ve even been in the tabloids recently because of singer Tom Chaplin’s rehab admission. Sadly, it becomes their smallest-charting hit to date, 2 spots lower than the 4th single from their last album, “This Is the Last Time.”
24. Never Be Lonely – The Feeling
If Keane’s having an off year, then new band The Feeling is really on a roll. “Never Be Lonely” is #2 on the airplay chart this week and should surely give the band their 3rd top 10 hit next week.
Madonna Single: Angel (1985)
Madonna
“Angel”
Release: April 10, 1985
1. Angel
2. Into the Groove
Producer: Nile Rodgers
Songwriters: Madonna and Stephen Bray
Billboard Hot 100: #5
UK Singles Chart: #5
By April 1985 Madonna was already on to her third single of the year, “Angel,” third single from still popular Like a Virgin album (it stayed in the top 10 until July). “Angel’s” story is an interesting one, basically for being overshadowed by its B-side. After the success of soundtrack cut “Crazy for You,” the record company was surely eager to get back to promoting material from Like a Virgin. In contrast to the high pop of first two singles “Like a Virgin” and “Material Girl,” “Angel” is a more straight-forward dance cut and pretty basic at that: driving synth bass with keyboard synthesizers over it. Madonna sings in her much-welcome lower voice.
“Angel” would go on to hit #5 in the US, but this may have had more to do with its B-side, “Into the Groove,” which was not released as its own single in the US (see next entry for more on that). As time has passed “Into the Groove” has emerged as one of Madonna’s early classics, while “Angel” has been largely forgotten.
Another oddity with “Angel” is the lack of a video. In fact, Madonna made relatively few videos during this period. Only “Like a Virgin” and “Material Girl” have proper videos; “Crazy for You” and “Into the Groove” have clip videos with scenes from their films. Given the tremendous reception of the “Material Girl” video, it is surprising that the only thing produced for “Angel” was a compilation of clips from her previous videos, which may have been made by MTV to just have something for the song.
Saturday, August 26, 2006
Billboard Hot 100 Chart Analysis, 9/2/2006
1. London Bridge - Fergie
This is an abomination. Probably the worst song to top the Hot 100 since I learned the Hot 100 existed. It's really quite dreadful, completely lacking in melody or anything at all interesting. She ruined the Black Eyed Peas. Now if only she'd go away. Third week at #1, sadly.
5. Buttons - The Pussycat Dolls (featuring Snoop Dogg)
This got as high at #4 recently, and it's still bulleted, so it could rebound and go higher. It knocked Nelly Furtado's "Promiscuous" from #1 on the Mediabase top 40 chart this week, giving them their 2nd radio #1 after "Stickwitu." Certainly an improvement over "Beep," their only single so far to miss the top 10.
7. Get Up - Ciara (featuring Chamillionaire)
Ciara returns to the top 10 to score her 4th top 10 (7th if you count her guest appearances). Ciara hit #1 with her debut, "Goodies," and sent both of its follow-ups to #2, "1, 2 Step" and "Oh." Her only misstep, the #95 placing of her first album's fourth single, "And I." Doing guest work here is rapper Chamillionaire, still "ridin'" high on the success of his recent #1 hit. It's the sales gainer too.
8. Ain't No Other Man - Christina Aguilera
Christina earns her bullet back this week, but probably only because the album came out (and hit #1).
9. Sexy Love - Ne-Yo
Ne-Yo's back in the top 10 after the lame #15 peak of "When You're Mad," which was a dumb choice for single anyway. This is a better song, although it's still no "So Sick."
11. Far Away
Nickelback makes a big 12-spot leap to #11 with "Far Away," third single from their third album. I'm guessing it will become their 4th top 10 hit next week. Surprisingly, their last single, "Savin' Me," only made #19, despite the fact that it's not as bad as their usual stuff.
25. Call Me When You're Sober - Evanescence
Evanscence is back with a bang, debuting at #25 with their 3rd top 40 hit, "Call Me When You're Sober." The band's first 2 hits both made the top 10; "Bring Me to Life" hit #5 in 2003, and "My Immortal" hit #7 in 2004.
26. Chasing Cars - Snow Patrol
Snow Patrol's first US hit continues to climb, up 5 this week to #26. The single recently peaked at #10 in the UK, where it was the second top 10 hit from their 4th album, Eyes Open.
29. When You Were Young - The Killers
The Killers stall at #29 this week with their second top 40 hit, "When You Were Young," first release from their upcoming second album, Sam's Town. This track hasn't impacted at top 40 or adult top 40 radio yet, where "Mr. Brightside," their first top 40 hit, was quite strong.
31. Sexyback - Justin Timberlake
JT's up just 4 spots this week with "Sexyback," but watch out next week. This went on sale at iTunes this week--expect it to knock Fergie from #1 next week.
This is an abomination. Probably the worst song to top the Hot 100 since I learned the Hot 100 existed. It's really quite dreadful, completely lacking in melody or anything at all interesting. She ruined the Black Eyed Peas. Now if only she'd go away. Third week at #1, sadly.
5. Buttons - The Pussycat Dolls (featuring Snoop Dogg)
This got as high at #4 recently, and it's still bulleted, so it could rebound and go higher. It knocked Nelly Furtado's "Promiscuous" from #1 on the Mediabase top 40 chart this week, giving them their 2nd radio #1 after "Stickwitu." Certainly an improvement over "Beep," their only single so far to miss the top 10.
7. Get Up - Ciara (featuring Chamillionaire)
Ciara returns to the top 10 to score her 4th top 10 (7th if you count her guest appearances). Ciara hit #1 with her debut, "Goodies," and sent both of its follow-ups to #2, "1, 2 Step" and "Oh." Her only misstep, the #95 placing of her first album's fourth single, "And I." Doing guest work here is rapper Chamillionaire, still "ridin'" high on the success of his recent #1 hit. It's the sales gainer too.
8. Ain't No Other Man - Christina Aguilera
Christina earns her bullet back this week, but probably only because the album came out (and hit #1).
9. Sexy Love - Ne-Yo
Ne-Yo's back in the top 10 after the lame #15 peak of "When You're Mad," which was a dumb choice for single anyway. This is a better song, although it's still no "So Sick."
11. Far Away
Nickelback makes a big 12-spot leap to #11 with "Far Away," third single from their third album. I'm guessing it will become their 4th top 10 hit next week. Surprisingly, their last single, "Savin' Me," only made #19, despite the fact that it's not as bad as their usual stuff.
25. Call Me When You're Sober - Evanescence
Evanscence is back with a bang, debuting at #25 with their 3rd top 40 hit, "Call Me When You're Sober." The band's first 2 hits both made the top 10; "Bring Me to Life" hit #5 in 2003, and "My Immortal" hit #7 in 2004.
26. Chasing Cars - Snow Patrol
Snow Patrol's first US hit continues to climb, up 5 this week to #26. The single recently peaked at #10 in the UK, where it was the second top 10 hit from their 4th album, Eyes Open.
29. When You Were Young - The Killers
The Killers stall at #29 this week with their second top 40 hit, "When You Were Young," first release from their upcoming second album, Sam's Town. This track hasn't impacted at top 40 or adult top 40 radio yet, where "Mr. Brightside," their first top 40 hit, was quite strong.
31. Sexyback - Justin Timberlake
JT's up just 4 spots this week with "Sexyback," but watch out next week. This went on sale at iTunes this week--expect it to knock Fergie from #1 next week.
Saturday, August 19, 2006
Album Review: Keane - Under the Iron Sea (4.5 / 5)
Every band has its resident genius. Chris Martin clearly fills that position in Coldplay. In Keane it’s Tim Rice-Oxley, the band’s songwriter and principal musician (he does everything except sing—that’s Tom Chapman’s gig—and drum—that duty goes to Richard Hughes). Yet unlike Martin, Rice-Oxley is content to exist in frontman Chapman’s shadow like an anonymous puppetmaster. Maybe that’s a stretch, but Under the Iron Sea is a testament to Rice-Oxley’s melodic genius and represents a solid attempt by the band to stretch it’s creativity beyond just making beautiful songs. That it doesn’t quite succeed makes it all the more endearing for having tried.
Hopes and Fears, Keane’s 2004 album, was a remarkable debut achievement. Every song was a winner, particularly the first 5 tracks, and the act was notable for substituting piano completely for guitar as the backbone of their uplifting rock melodies. For Under the Iron Sea, the band decided to go with a concept of sorts—darker, moodier works. There’s still a lot of the same kind of music on this disc as their first album, but many of the tracks resonate with darker, richer attempts, drawing from U2, classical music, and the war for inspiration.
“Atlantic” opens slowly with a minute of slowly building instrumentation before the Tom Chapman’s boyishly sweet vocals kick in. It’s a far cry from the top 40 pop of “Somewhere Only We Know,” the opener from their last album. “Atlantic” is dark and moody, swirling with long synth chords and . And then it takes a beautiful turn toward brighter pastures—one of my favorite moments on the album is right here as Tom sings “I need a place that’s hidden in the deep…” as Tim’s chord structures change underneath. It’s quite moving and beautiful.
Keane then turns up the volume nobs—way up—for second track “Is It Any Wonder?” the loudest, rockiest song they’ve recorded yet. Is that electric guitar we hear? No! Keane does NOT do electric guitar. It’s actually electric piano that Tim modified with effects pedals to sound almost like guitar. While Keane’s first album drew many obvious comparisons to Coldplay, and the second disc does too, this track is pure U2 legacy. A smashing choice for the album’s lead single.
Next up is “Nothing in My Way,” which covers more traditional Keane territory we are used to hearing, Tim’s beautifully structured piano- and synth-driven melody under Tom’s emotional vocal. If the piano chords sound vaguely familiar, it’s no accident. Rice-Oxley has said this song was inspired by Eminem’s “Lose Yourself,” and the influence is there, albeit subtly. It’s a great song too, one of my favorites on the album. Followed by “Leaving So Soon,” another strong track.
Track 5 though is the real clincher. Every time I listen to it I get chills, and it grabs me from its first initial synth notes. “A Bad Dream” tells the story of a disillusioned airplane fighter pilot who feels alone and tired—“guess I’m not the fighting kind” he says. The song opens with some low rumbling synth cords—reminiscent of the sound of far away WWII-era fighter planes. It’s a remarkable song on so many levels. It’s achingly beautiful—the most beautiful song Keane has recorded. It’s also a subtle, yet extremely effective way to comment on the Iraq war. Rather than throwing out anger and diatribes against governments and politicians—the old standby method that has renewed the interest of some rock musicians of late—Keane express their POV by telling a simple story of one man in the war who doesn’t want to be there. It’s sad and beautiful and moving. I hope it gets released as a single, as I would LOVE to see the video.
“Hamburg Song,” so titled because it was written in Hamburg and they could think of no other moniker, is a simple ballad that is saved from tedium by its beautiful bridge of rich chords that sounds like it could have come from a Chopin composition. “Put it Behind You” cribs from Hopes and Fears’ “Bend and Break,” and while enjoyable, isn’t as good as its antecedent.
By this point in the album, the concept seems to break down. Sure, some of the tracks were darker, but songs like “Put it Behind You” and “Crystal Ball” are more like business as usual for Keane. The second half of the album also brings its one true disappointment, the title track “Iron Sea.” This is an 2½ minute instrumental track of high-feedback synths. People either really like or dislike this composition, and I’m afraid I fall into the latter camp. It just doesn’t do anything for me and it feels really disconnected from the rest of the album. There’s no transition being made, as the dark piece sits between two of the album’s poppiest numbers. Strangely, on the American version of the album, “Iron Sea” isn’t given its own track placing, but sits right after “Put It Behind You” as the last 2:48 of track 7. Bizarre. Things pick up again with “Crystal Ball,” this album’s “Everybody’s Changing,” a great upbeat traditionally Keane song.
The last three tracks of the album are okay, but don’t really hold my interest. “Try Again” plods along rather quietly before an injection of strong piano and synth chords after the second verse, making it sound almost like the band’s first single. “Broken Toy” sounds vaguely retro/jazzy and is very piano-focused, but a little too long. “The Frog Prince” finishes the collection in true Keane style, and even surprises with a somewhat unstructured middle section.
Under the Iron Sea is a worthy follow-up to Hopes and Fears; overall, it’s not as consistent as their first album, but its high points are truly remarkable, particularly “A Bad Dream,” “Atlantic” and “Is It Any Wonder?” The band has talked openly about how it almost fell apart between these albums; hopefully they can keep it together to deliver album #3 by 2008.
Friday, August 18, 2006
Madonna Single: Crazy For You (1985)
Madonna
“Crazy For You”
Release: March 2, 1985
1. Crazy For You
2. I’ll Fall In Love Again (Sammy Hagar)
Producer: John “Jellybean” Benitez
Songwriters: John Bettis and Jon Lind
Billboard Hot 100: #1 (1 week)
UK Singles Chart: #2 (3 weeks)
Over the years, Madonna has used soundtracks as an opportunity to release singles between albums, and some of her biggest hits have been non-album singles from soundtracks. “Crazy For You” from the film Vision Quest was her first soundtrack single, yet it came at the height of her Like a Virgin popularity. Rather than distract fans, it only added to the Madonna frenzy of 1985, hitting #1 in the US just a few weeks after “Material Girl” had peaked at #2. Frequently Madonna has appeared in the films whose soundtracks have showcased her hits; in Vision Quest, she appears performing both “Crazy For You” and “Gambler” as a nightclub performer.
“Crazy For You” was also Madonna’s first major ballad, and showcased the singer using her lower vocal register, which she had experimented with during the recording of Like a Virgin. Just as he had saved Madonna by remixing many of its tracks, Madonna’s ex-boyfriend swooped in to remix the early cut of “Crazy For You,” ultimately earning production credit. While she was already established as a major pop star, “Crazy For You” broadened her appeal to adult contemporary audiences too. It was an effective contrast to the R&B/dance-oriented pop of “Like a Virgin” and “Material Girl.” The single hit #2 in Britain during the summer of 1985, overlapping in the top 10 with “Into the Groove.” “Crazy For You” was re-released in 1991 as the second British single from The Immaculate Collection, where it again peaked at #2.
The “Crazy For You” video, directed by Vision Quest director Harold Becker, is entirely clips from the film, including cuts of Madonna singing the song in the nightclub. “Crazy For You” remains one of Madonna’s most enduring early hits and can frequently be heard today on adult top 40 and adult contemporary radio stations.
Wednesday, August 16, 2006
Madonna Single: Material Girl (1985)
Madonna
“Material Girl”
Release: January 30, 1985
1. Material Girl
2. Pretender
Producer: Nile Rodgers
Songwriters: Peter Brown and Robert Rans
Billboard Hot 100: #2 (2 weeks)
Billboard Dance/Club Play: #1 (1 week)
UK Singles Chart: #3
Madonna’s second Like a Virgin single was instrumental in defining her media image for years to come, even if the message was misunderstood. “Material Girl” is an upbeat piece of dance/pop that endures as one of her early classics. It’s a great pop song, driven along by an insistent synthetic bass line and other synthesizer effects. Madonna even seems to get “spanked” at one point during the song as she giggles with glee. The lyrics are, of course, a tongue-in-cheek send up of ‘80s materialism as the driving force of romance, yet the “Material Girl” moniker was too easy to resist, and the media branded Madonna herself as the Material Girl, a nickname that has stuck to this day.
As if the title alone weren’t enough to define Madonna’s image, then the video sealed the deal. Directed by Mary Lambert, who helmed Madonna’s last video, “Like a Virgin,” “Material Girl” finds Madonna re-creating Marilyn Monroe’s performance of “Diamonds Are a Girl’s Best Friend” from Gentlemen Prefer Blonds. Again, this move works on multiple levels, both as a thematic reference to materialism/romance and Madonna’s successful incorporation of Marilyn Monroe as an iconic image for her own use, which she would resurrect again and again. Dan Aykroyd appears in the video too.
Although it wasn’t as big a hit as “Like a Virgin,” “Material Girl” was still very successful, hitting #2 in the US and #3 in the UK. It’s certainly proven to be one her most enduring early singles. It’s even being used for an upcoming film, produced by Madonna’s production company, Maverick.
Finally, an important note of trivia. During filming of the “Material Girl” video, Mary Lambert brought her friend Sean Penn to the set one day to meet Madonna, sparking Madonna’s first high-profile media romance, leading to her first marriage.
Tuesday, August 15, 2006
Personal Chart, 8/19/2006
TW LW Wks Title - Artist
1 .... 3 .... 3 .... I Don't Feel Like Dancin' - Scissor Sisters (1 week @ #1)
2 .... 1 ... 10 ... Ain't No Other Man - Christina Aguilera (2 wks @ #1)
3 .... 9 .... 5 .... Crystal Ball - Keane
4 .... 6 .... 5 .... You Give Me Something - James Morrison
5 .... 5 ... 11 ... Chasing Cars - Snow Patrol
6 .... 7 ... 14 ... Promiscuous - Nelly Furtado Featuring Timbaland (4 wks @ #1)
7 .... 4 .... 8 .... Smile - Lily Allen (1 wk @ #1)
8 .... 2 ... 18 ... Get Together - Madonna
9 ... 10 ... 5 .... Sexyback - Justin Timberlake
10 .. 11 .. 6 .... Buttons - The Pussycat Dolls
1 .... 3 .... 3 .... I Don't Feel Like Dancin' - Scissor Sisters (1 week @ #1)
2 .... 1 ... 10 ... Ain't No Other Man - Christina Aguilera (2 wks @ #1)
3 .... 9 .... 5 .... Crystal Ball - Keane
4 .... 6 .... 5 .... You Give Me Something - James Morrison
5 .... 5 ... 11 ... Chasing Cars - Snow Patrol
6 .... 7 ... 14 ... Promiscuous - Nelly Furtado Featuring Timbaland (4 wks @ #1)
7 .... 4 .... 8 .... Smile - Lily Allen (1 wk @ #1)
8 .... 2 ... 18 ... Get Together - Madonna
9 ... 10 ... 5 .... Sexyback - Justin Timberlake
10 .. 11 .. 6 .... Buttons - The Pussycat Dolls
Monday, August 14, 2006
UK Singles Chart Analysis, 8/19/2006
1. I Don't Feel Like Dancin' - Scissor Sisters
This is more a prediction than truth. The Scissor Sisters' new single, "I Don't Feel Like Dancin'" isn't out until early next month, yet the track is already #1 at on the UK radio airplay chart, knocking Lily Allen's "Smile" from the perch where she's spent the last 6 weeks. Here's the real #1:
1. Hips Don't Like - Shakira Featuring Wyclef Jean
Another slow week lets Shakira retain #1 for a 4th week, making "Hips Don't Lie" the second longest running #1 single this year so far. She's not the only one that benefits...
2. Everytime We Touch - Cascada
...Cascada benefits too, moving up 2 spots to #2 with their Hi-NRG house hit "Everytime We Touch." A shame, when there's some great dance tracks just outside the top 10.
5. You Give Me Something - James Morrison
And James Morrison. "You Give Me Something" has been charting for 5 weeks now, and moves back up a spot to #5, it's peak position and third week in the spot.
10. Chasing Cars - Snow Patrol
And Snow Patrol, who's "Chasing Cars" has climbed 25-15-13-10 to become their third top 10 hit after "Run" (#5 in 2004) and "You're All I Have," (#7 earlier this year). It completely deserves it too. Great song.
12. Borderline - Micheal Gray
Michael Gray doesn't make out so well though. He has the highest debut of the week, but only at #12. November 2004 he hit #7 with "The Weekend." "Borderline" charts similar dance territory, and obviously cribs from Armand Van Helden's #1 dance hit from 1999, "You Don't Know Me." It's a fun dance tune, and I thought for sure it would go top 10.
17. Horny As a Dandy - Mousse T vs. the Dandy Warhols
I thought this would be a top 10 shoo-in, another great dance track. This is a mash-up by Mousse T of his own hit "Horny," a #2 hit in the summer of 1998 and "Bohemian Like You," a #5 hit in 2001 by Portland, Oregon based The Dandy Warhols. It's fun mash-up, incorporating elements equally from both songs, but it charts at a lowly #17 for such a fun summer single. Meanwhile Cascada is up there at #2. What gives Britain?!
23. Me & U - Cassie
Cassie makes a strong debut on downloads at #23. #1 next week? Maybe, but she'll have to contend with an British alt/rock powerhouse (see below).
27. Happiness - Orson
It's diminishing returns now for Orson. They hit #1 with first single, "No Tomorrow," #11 with second single "Bright Idea," and now down at #27 for "Happiness." All are great tracks though. I definitely recommend the album, which I believe is #4 this week on the UK albums chart. So they're not hurting, even if the single is at #27.
28. Love Don't Let Me Go (Walking Away) - David Guetta vs. The Egg
Another downloads-only-charting single walks in (or away rather) at #28. Should be top 10 next week. Dance music could use some redemption after this week.
AND that brings us to next week. The last couple of weeks have been kind of slow, but next week should change that. Vying for the top 10 are a bevy of big-name releases:
"Leave Before the Lights Come On" - Arctic Monkeys. Arctic Monkeys have already had two #1 hits, and this new song isn't on the album. It's probably their best release yet too, so expect it to sell buckets.
"Me & U" - Cassie (see above)
"Love Don't Let Me Go" - David Guetta vs. the Egg (see above)
"Lipstick" - Alesha
"Iris" - Ronan Keating (Yes it's a bland remake of the Goo Dolls 1998 classic, but he ALWAYS goes top 10).
"Ridin'" - Chamillionaire
This is more a prediction than truth. The Scissor Sisters' new single, "I Don't Feel Like Dancin'" isn't out until early next month, yet the track is already #1 at on the UK radio airplay chart, knocking Lily Allen's "Smile" from the perch where she's spent the last 6 weeks. Here's the real #1:
1. Hips Don't Like - Shakira Featuring Wyclef Jean
Another slow week lets Shakira retain #1 for a 4th week, making "Hips Don't Lie" the second longest running #1 single this year so far. She's not the only one that benefits...
2. Everytime We Touch - Cascada
...Cascada benefits too, moving up 2 spots to #2 with their Hi-NRG house hit "Everytime We Touch." A shame, when there's some great dance tracks just outside the top 10.
5. You Give Me Something - James Morrison
And James Morrison. "You Give Me Something" has been charting for 5 weeks now, and moves back up a spot to #5, it's peak position and third week in the spot.
10. Chasing Cars - Snow Patrol
And Snow Patrol, who's "Chasing Cars" has climbed 25-15-13-10 to become their third top 10 hit after "Run" (#5 in 2004) and "You're All I Have," (#7 earlier this year). It completely deserves it too. Great song.
12. Borderline - Micheal Gray
Michael Gray doesn't make out so well though. He has the highest debut of the week, but only at #12. November 2004 he hit #7 with "The Weekend." "Borderline" charts similar dance territory, and obviously cribs from Armand Van Helden's #1 dance hit from 1999, "You Don't Know Me." It's a fun dance tune, and I thought for sure it would go top 10.
17. Horny As a Dandy - Mousse T vs. the Dandy Warhols
I thought this would be a top 10 shoo-in, another great dance track. This is a mash-up by Mousse T of his own hit "Horny," a #2 hit in the summer of 1998 and "Bohemian Like You," a #5 hit in 2001 by Portland, Oregon based The Dandy Warhols. It's fun mash-up, incorporating elements equally from both songs, but it charts at a lowly #17 for such a fun summer single. Meanwhile Cascada is up there at #2. What gives Britain?!
23. Me & U - Cassie
Cassie makes a strong debut on downloads at #23. #1 next week? Maybe, but she'll have to contend with an British alt/rock powerhouse (see below).
27. Happiness - Orson
It's diminishing returns now for Orson. They hit #1 with first single, "No Tomorrow," #11 with second single "Bright Idea," and now down at #27 for "Happiness." All are great tracks though. I definitely recommend the album, which I believe is #4 this week on the UK albums chart. So they're not hurting, even if the single is at #27.
28. Love Don't Let Me Go (Walking Away) - David Guetta vs. The Egg
Another downloads-only-charting single walks in (or away rather) at #28. Should be top 10 next week. Dance music could use some redemption after this week.
AND that brings us to next week. The last couple of weeks have been kind of slow, but next week should change that. Vying for the top 10 are a bevy of big-name releases:
"Leave Before the Lights Come On" - Arctic Monkeys. Arctic Monkeys have already had two #1 hits, and this new song isn't on the album. It's probably their best release yet too, so expect it to sell buckets.
"Me & U" - Cassie (see above)
"Love Don't Let Me Go" - David Guetta vs. the Egg (see above)
"Lipstick" - Alesha
"Iris" - Ronan Keating (Yes it's a bland remake of the Goo Dolls 1998 classic, but he ALWAYS goes top 10).
"Ridin'" - Chamillionaire
Sunday, August 13, 2006
Madonna Album: Like a Virgin (1984)
Madonna
Like a Virgin
Release: November 13, 1984
1. Material Girl
2. Angel
3. Like a Virgin
4. Over and Over
5. Love Don’t Live Here Anymore
6. Dress You Up
7. Shoo-Bee-Doo
8. Pretender
9. Stay
Producer: Nile Rodgers
Writers: Madonna and Steve Bray (“Angel,” “Over and Over,” “Pretender,” and “Stay”), Madonna (“Shoo Bee Doo”), Peter Brown and Robert Rans (“Material Girl”), Billy Steinberg and Tom Kelly (“Like a Virgin”), and Miles Greggory (“Love Don’t Live Here Anymore”)
Billboard 200: #1 (3 weeks) UK Albums Chart: #1 (2 weeks)
Like a Virgin is clearly the album that made Madonna a megastar. She had made a name for herself with Madonna, her debut club-oriented disc that saw the singer transition from the club world to the pop world, but that album’s reach and popularity pales in comparison to the phenomenal impact of her second album. Like a Virgin quickly climbed the Billboard albums chart, hitting #1 by February 1985. The album is RIAA-certified diamond for 10 million units shipped, making Like a Virgin Madonna’s second best-selling album next to The Immaculate Collection. With a wink, Madonna dedicated the album to “the virgins of the world.”
Nile Rodgers, who had worked with Chic and David Bowie, produced every track on the album, giving the disc a unified dance/pop sound. The album’s production is a crisp mix of electronic and acoustic instruments. Bass synthesizers are featured prominently throughout and used as a staccato effect in songs like “Angel,” “Like a Virgin,” and “Over and Over.” The tracks also feature a mix of live drums and drum programming. Madonna’s vocals are also varied on the disc. On Madonna, she sang pretty much exclusively in her higher nasal register. On Like a Virgin, she began to experiment with singing in a lower, fuller register, which she would later hone to be her primary vocal style. Such contrast is evident in tracks like “Angel” where she begins the first verse in the higher range and shifts to the lower range for the second verse and chorus.
Steve Bray makes an official return as a Madonna collaborator for this album, co-writing with Madonna four of the album’s more dance-oriented cuts. The two had worked together on her original four-track demo, but Bray had been passed over for producing any of those cuts for her first album in favor of more experienced producers. Photographer Steven Meisel shot the provocative cover photo of Madonna wearing a bridal dress, similar to the one she had worn for the “Like a Virgin” performance on MTV 2 months prior to the album’s release.
Like a Virgin is a solid collection of pop cuts that showcased Madonna as a growing pop music force. Two tracks—“Like a Virgin” and “Material Girl”—would go on to become ‘80s pop classics that, for better or worse, would come to define Madonna’s public image for remainder of the decade. “Material Girl” in particular would become a label the media would use to describe the singer to this day. “Angel” and “Dress You Up” also became top 10 hits. Even non-single cuts like “Over and Over” and “Stay” are still fresh. The album’s only downside are its ballads, “Love Don’t Live Here Anymore” and “Shoo-Bee-Doo,” which sound stale. Madonna had stuck to only fast cuts on her first LP, so the inclusion of slower songs on Like a Virgin was surely an attempt to broaden her reach. Still, next to so many brilliantly executed dance pop cuts, they lack the impact that later Madonna ballads would achieve. I’d rate Like a Virgin a 4.5 out of 5.
Friday, August 11, 2006
UK Single Chart Analysis, 8/12/2006
1. Hips Don't Lie - Shakira Featuring Wyclef Jean
Shakira spends a 3rd week atop the UK chart this week, tying Nelly Furtado's "Maneater" for second-longest running #1 hit of the year. Both are a long way from frontrunner Gnarls Barkley's "Crazy," which spent an amazing 9 weeks at #1. Here's an interesting fact: Despite being the #1 single in the country for a third week, BBC Radio 1, the nation's most popular (and public) top 40 station refuses to add the track to their playlist. Too cool? Maybe. But not so cool that Paris Hilton isn't getting some spins on air. Seems like someone at the BBC has it in for Colombia's hottest export since Cocaine.
2. Unfaithful - Rihanna
The chart's a bit slow this week, so Rihanna rebounds to her peak position from a fortnight ago. Still unlikely to become her first chart-topper though.
4. Everytime We Touch - Cascada
Whoa! Here's an oddity. A by-the-numbers house dance track becomes a UK top 5 hit. Nevermind the fact that plenty of cool house tracks have charted pretty poorly this year in a country that's embraced dance music for years. Even odder is the fact that not only has the UK embraced this song, but that it was a huge HUGE hit in the US--the country that completely turned it's back on house. Well almost. House music is a regular on the UK top 40, but appears maybe 3 or 4 times a year in the US. Lately it's been the sort of hi-NRG stuff that DJ Sammy made big with "Heaven," (Although he clearly wasn't the first, just the most successful). This was a top 10 US hit in December 2005 and now it does top 5 in the UK. It's okay stuff, but there's much more interesting work being done in house and dance music these days.
5. Stars Are Blind - Paris Hilton
I used to make fun of this, until I listened to it for awhile and realized it's actually not bad. Of course Paris Hilton is rediculous, and famous only because 1) her father is an American institution and 2) she'll give it up on camera, but still "Stars Are Blind" is a fun dose of reggae-influenced summer pop. Enjoy it with an iced team or a margarita.
13. Chasing Cars - Snow Patrol
Snow Patrol inches up a couple of notches to #13 with their latest, the cool ballad "Chasing Cars," which has actually managed to crack the US top 40 airplay chart. Crazy! Snow Patrol's albums, Eyes Open, is really quite good and I highly recommend it.
20. All This Love - Similou
This is an okay song, but I don't see much here to distinguish from stuff like The Postal Service or Hot Chip. It's all in the same vein me thinks.
30. Glorious - Captain
This is a really cool song. It's in the retro/rock territory dominated by the Killers. Good stuff.
Shakira spends a 3rd week atop the UK chart this week, tying Nelly Furtado's "Maneater" for second-longest running #1 hit of the year. Both are a long way from frontrunner Gnarls Barkley's "Crazy," which spent an amazing 9 weeks at #1. Here's an interesting fact: Despite being the #1 single in the country for a third week, BBC Radio 1, the nation's most popular (and public) top 40 station refuses to add the track to their playlist. Too cool? Maybe. But not so cool that Paris Hilton isn't getting some spins on air. Seems like someone at the BBC has it in for Colombia's hottest export since Cocaine.
2. Unfaithful - Rihanna
The chart's a bit slow this week, so Rihanna rebounds to her peak position from a fortnight ago. Still unlikely to become her first chart-topper though.
4. Everytime We Touch - Cascada
Whoa! Here's an oddity. A by-the-numbers house dance track becomes a UK top 5 hit. Nevermind the fact that plenty of cool house tracks have charted pretty poorly this year in a country that's embraced dance music for years. Even odder is the fact that not only has the UK embraced this song, but that it was a huge HUGE hit in the US--the country that completely turned it's back on house. Well almost. House music is a regular on the UK top 40, but appears maybe 3 or 4 times a year in the US. Lately it's been the sort of hi-NRG stuff that DJ Sammy made big with "Heaven," (Although he clearly wasn't the first, just the most successful). This was a top 10 US hit in December 2005 and now it does top 5 in the UK. It's okay stuff, but there's much more interesting work being done in house and dance music these days.
5. Stars Are Blind - Paris Hilton
I used to make fun of this, until I listened to it for awhile and realized it's actually not bad. Of course Paris Hilton is rediculous, and famous only because 1) her father is an American institution and 2) she'll give it up on camera, but still "Stars Are Blind" is a fun dose of reggae-influenced summer pop. Enjoy it with an iced team or a margarita.
13. Chasing Cars - Snow Patrol
Snow Patrol inches up a couple of notches to #13 with their latest, the cool ballad "Chasing Cars," which has actually managed to crack the US top 40 airplay chart. Crazy! Snow Patrol's albums, Eyes Open, is really quite good and I highly recommend it.
20. All This Love - Similou
This is an okay song, but I don't see much here to distinguish from stuff like The Postal Service or Hot Chip. It's all in the same vein me thinks.
30. Glorious - Captain
This is a really cool song. It's in the retro/rock territory dominated by the Killers. Good stuff.
Personal Chart, 8/12/2006
TW LW Wks Title - Artist
1 .... 1 .... 9 .... Ain't No Other Man - Christina Aguilera (2 wks @ #1)
2 .... 2 ... 17 ... Get Together - Madonna
3 ... 14 ... 2 .... I Don't Feel Like Dancin' - Scissor Sisters
4 .... 3 .... 7 .... Smile - Lily Allen (1 wk @ #1)
5 .... 6 ... 10 .. Chasing Cars - Snow Patrol
6 .... 7 .... 4 .... You Give Me Something - James Morrison
7 .... 5 ... 13 ... Promiscuous - Nelly Furtado Featuring Timbaland (4 wks @ #1)
8 .... 4 ... 14 ... Unfaithful - Rihanna
9 ... 19 ... 4 .... Crystal Ball - Keane
10 .. 11 .. 4 .... Sexyback - Justin Timberlake
1 .... 1 .... 9 .... Ain't No Other Man - Christina Aguilera (2 wks @ #1)
2 .... 2 ... 17 ... Get Together - Madonna
3 ... 14 ... 2 .... I Don't Feel Like Dancin' - Scissor Sisters
4 .... 3 .... 7 .... Smile - Lily Allen (1 wk @ #1)
5 .... 6 ... 10 .. Chasing Cars - Snow Patrol
6 .... 7 .... 4 .... You Give Me Something - James Morrison
7 .... 5 ... 13 ... Promiscuous - Nelly Furtado Featuring Timbaland (4 wks @ #1)
8 .... 4 ... 14 ... Unfaithful - Rihanna
9 ... 19 ... 4 .... Crystal Ball - Keane
10 .. 11 .. 4 .... Sexyback - Justin Timberlake
Sunday, July 30, 2006
Madonna Single: Like a Virgin (1984)
Madonna
“Like a Virgin”
Release: November 6, 1984
1. Like a Virgin
2. Stay
Producer: Nile Rodgers
Songwriters: Billy Steinberg and Tom Kelly
Billboard Hot 100: #1 (6 weeks)
Billboard Dance/Club Play: #1 (4 weeks)
UK Singles Chart: #3
With a successful album under her belt, Madonna quickly returned to the studio to record its follow-up. “Like a Virgin” was the first single and title track from her second album, and followed “Lucky Star,” the last Madonna single, by only 3 months (in comparison, 6 months had passed between the release of “Borderline” and “Lucky Star”). When the single was released in November 1984, the masses were already familiar with it, since Madonna famously performed the track at the first MTV Music Video Awards in September. Dressed as a bride-of-sorts, Madonna came out an a cake and scandalized the public by writhing around on the stage and simulating masturbation with the veil. The performance was so popular that it sometimes considered a second video for the track—certainly it is noted as Madonna’s breakthrough attempt at manipulating the media through both image and music. It certainly could not have been ignored. The official video, directed by Mary Lambert, has Madonna cavorting around New York and Venice, dressing as a bride, and petting a giant cat.
Musically, “Like a Virgin” marked a somewhat new course for Madonna. Producer Reggie Lucas, whom Madonna never got along with anyway, was jettisoned in favor of Nile Rodgers, the man responsible for making Chic a staple of ‘70s disco. With an updated dance formula for the ‘90s, more slick and purely pop than her first album, Rodgers gave Madonna what she wanted and the sound was an instant hit.
“Like a Virgin” was Madonna’s first #1 hit and it remains one of her biggest ever. The track spent 6 weeks at #1 in the U.S., her second-longest stay at the top. Additionally, the single reached #1 in on the European chart as well as in Ireland, Canada, Australia, and Japan. As one of her most enduring signature hits, Madonna would perform the song again and again. Notable performances include the 1990 Blond Ambition tour performance, where she performed the song in a Middle Eastern style from a bed with male dancers wearing cone bras, and the 2003 MTV Music Video Awards performance featuring Britney Spears and Christina Aguilera—both of whom kissed Madonna at the end of the spectacle.
The video:
1984 MTV Music Video Awards:
1990 Blond Ambition Tour:
2003 MTV Music Video Awards (with Christina Aguilera and Britney Spears):
Saturday, July 29, 2006
Personal Chart, 7/29/2006
TW LW Wks Title - Artist
1 .... 2 .... 5 .... Smile - Lily Allen (1 week @ #1)
2 .... 3 .... 7 .... Ain't No Other Man - Christina Aguilera
3 .... 1 ... 11 ... Promiscuous - Nelly Furtado featuring Timbaland (4 wks @ #1)
4 .... 4 ... 15 ... Get Together - Madonna
5 ... 11 .. 12 ... Unfaithful - Rihanna
6 .... 7 .... 7 .... In the Morning - Razorlight
7 .... 8 .... 8 .... Chasing Cars - Snow Patrol
8 .... 5 .... 7 .... She Moves in Her Own Way - The Kooks
9 .... 9 .... 6 .... Valerie - The Zutons
10 .. 25 .. 2 .... You Give Me Something - James Morrison
1 .... 2 .... 5 .... Smile - Lily Allen (1 week @ #1)
2 .... 3 .... 7 .... Ain't No Other Man - Christina Aguilera
3 .... 1 ... 11 ... Promiscuous - Nelly Furtado featuring Timbaland (4 wks @ #1)
4 .... 4 ... 15 ... Get Together - Madonna
5 ... 11 .. 12 ... Unfaithful - Rihanna
6 .... 7 .... 7 .... In the Morning - Razorlight
7 .... 8 .... 8 .... Chasing Cars - Snow Patrol
8 .... 5 .... 7 .... She Moves in Her Own Way - The Kooks
9 .... 9 .... 6 .... Valerie - The Zutons
10 .. 25 .. 2 .... You Give Me Something - James Morrison
Thursday, July 27, 2006
Madonna Single: Lucky Star (1984)
Madonna
“Lucky Star”
Release: August 8, 1984
1. Lucky Star (Edit)
2. I Know It
Producer: Reggie Lucas
Writer: Madonna
Billboard Hot 100: #4
UK Singles Chart: #14
Saving the best for last isn’t the usual strategy for choosing singles off of albums, but that’s exactly how it worked for Madonna’s first album. “Lucky Star,” the album’s upbeat opening track, became the fifth and final single released from the album in the summer of 1984. It became the album’s biggest U.S. hit, peaking at #4. In the UK, it failed to chart when first released in 1983, but reached #14 upon its re-release the next year. It remains one of only five Madonna singles not to reach the top 10 in UK, a fate that would have befallen “Borderline,” had it not been re-released.
“Lucky Star” benefits from really cool synthesizer effects, thundering bass, and synthetic claps. It’s definitely my favorite cut from Madonna. Madonna’s high, nasally vocals also give way to lower-register singing, which she would use rarely until True Blue. The single features Madonna album cut I Know It as a B-side, ensuring that every cut on Madonna would appear as either the A- or B-side track on one of the album’s five singles.
The “Lucky Star” video is a simple dance video with Madonna dancing against white background with her two backup dancers—her brother, Christopher Ciccone, and Erica Bell.
Fergie needs a geography lesson
Fergie, the singer from the Black Eyed Peas, is going solo this summer. Her first single, "London Bridge," is out now. Above, is the picture on the cover of the single. Only problem is that she is standing in front of the Tower Bridge, not the London Bridge. At least said bridge is actually in London, but she should really get it right if this is going to be released in the UK.
Wednesday, July 26, 2006
Madonna Single: Borderline (1984)
Madonna
“Borderline”
Release: February 15, 1984
1. Borderline (Edit)
2. Think of Me
Producer/Writer: Reggie Lucas
Billboard Hot 100: #10
UK Singles Chart: #2
The success of “Holiday” assured a fourth single would be released from Madonna, and up the chart went “Borderline.” The single became Madonna’s first top 10 U.S. hit, peaking at #10. In Britain, it fared poorly upon initial release, peaking at #56. However, a re-release in January 1986 saw the track climb all the way to #2. The mid-tempo track is very ‘80s sounding and the closest thing to a ballad on Madonna. Again, it’s scored with keyboards, synthesizers, and drum machines.
Although hard to see here, the cover has maps of New York and London in the background, which along with Los Angeles would be the most important cities where Madonna would be based over the course of her career.
Unlike “Holiday,” a stunning video was produced for “Borderline,” one of her best early works. The video was significant for telling a simple narrative story during a time when videos were mostly performances or obvious studio productions. Mary Lambert directed the cut, who would go on to direct other well-known Madonna videos such as “Like a Virgin” and the controversial “Like a Prayer.”
Lance Bass comes out
Lance Bass, formerly of the boyband N*Sync, came out today and announced that he is dating Amazing Race 4th season winner and model Reichen Lehmkuhl. It has long been speculated that Lance is gay--I had a friend in college that insisted on it, meanwhile everyone else was wrongly pointing fingers at Justin Timberlake. His relationship with Reichen has been somewhat public over the last few months, and the two took a very out-in-the-open vacation to gay destination Provincetown, Mass. a couple of weeks ago. Check out Reichen here: http://ihatewheat.wordpress.com/2006/07/26/no-surprises/
Lance is perhaps the biggest male American pop star to come out so far, but he's certainly not alone. "Out" gay pop/rock American acts include Melissa Etheridge, k.d. lang, the Indigo Girls, Jake Shears (Scissor Sisters), Jim Verraros (American Idol), RuPaul, Fred Schneider (B-52's), and Linda Perry. Michael Stipe is out too, but it isn't clear if he's gay or bi. Most of these acts had their biggest hits before coming out, with the notable exception of some of the women, such as Melissa Etheridge, who came out and then scored huge hits with "I'm the Only One" and "I Want to Come Over." k.d. lang also had her biggest hit post-coming out with "Constant Craving." Shears has had huge hits in the UK as an out artist, but not in the US.
Abroad, there appears to be more openly gay artists--particularly men--that have continued to be big hitmakers since coming out. George Michael came out in 1998, and went on to score a number of big hits, including "Outside," "As," and "Amazing." Elton John has also had continued success as an out artist, most recently with a #1 hit in 2003, "Are You Ready For Love." Biggest of all recently is Will Young, who came out while his first single, "Evergreen" was #1, and went on to score four more #1 singles and five other top 10 hits, including this year's "All Time Love."
Lance also isn't the only boyband member to come out. First up was former Irish Boyzone member Stephen Gately, who came out after the band broke up and had a top 10 hit, "New Beginning." Mark Feehily of Westlife, also an Irish act, came out last year, and then the band went on to score one of their biggest #1 hits, "You Raise Me Up." Erasure, Pet Shop Boys, Savage Garden, and Dead or Alive all have out lead singers.
Lance is perhaps the biggest male American pop star to come out so far, but he's certainly not alone. "Out" gay pop/rock American acts include Melissa Etheridge, k.d. lang, the Indigo Girls, Jake Shears (Scissor Sisters), Jim Verraros (American Idol), RuPaul, Fred Schneider (B-52's), and Linda Perry. Michael Stipe is out too, but it isn't clear if he's gay or bi. Most of these acts had their biggest hits before coming out, with the notable exception of some of the women, such as Melissa Etheridge, who came out and then scored huge hits with "I'm the Only One" and "I Want to Come Over." k.d. lang also had her biggest hit post-coming out with "Constant Craving." Shears has had huge hits in the UK as an out artist, but not in the US.
Abroad, there appears to be more openly gay artists--particularly men--that have continued to be big hitmakers since coming out. George Michael came out in 1998, and went on to score a number of big hits, including "Outside," "As," and "Amazing." Elton John has also had continued success as an out artist, most recently with a #1 hit in 2003, "Are You Ready For Love." Biggest of all recently is Will Young, who came out while his first single, "Evergreen" was #1, and went on to score four more #1 singles and five other top 10 hits, including this year's "All Time Love."
Lance also isn't the only boyband member to come out. First up was former Irish Boyzone member Stephen Gately, who came out after the band broke up and had a top 10 hit, "New Beginning." Mark Feehily of Westlife, also an Irish act, came out last year, and then the band went on to score one of their biggest #1 hits, "You Raise Me Up." Erasure, Pet Shop Boys, Savage Garden, and Dead or Alive all have out lead singers.
Tuesday, July 25, 2006
Scissor Sisters New Track
The Scissor Sisters' new track, "I Don't Feel Like Dancin'," goes on sale at midnight Friday and will get its first play on BBC Radio 1 Friday morning. You can pre-order at 7Digital and hear a 30 second clip. I think it's going to be really really good. I'm quite excited.
The Killers New Track
The Killers' new track, "When You Were Young" can be heard in its entirety on their official Web site. Good song, but sounds a lot like "Mr. Brightside." I'm excited about the album, Sam's Town.
Madonna Single: Holiday (1983)
Madonna
“Holiday”
Release: September 7, 1983
1. Holiday (Single Edit)
2. Lucky Star
Producer: John “Jellybean” Benitez
Writers: Curtis Hudson & Lisa Stevens
Billboard Hot 100: #16
UK Singles Chart: #2 (1 wk)
“Holiday” was Madonna’s first big breakthrough—the song that got her on the radio. While her first two singles had been club hits, this was her first to crack the Billboard top 40, ultimately peaking at #16 and spending 11 weeks in the top 40. It also spent 5 weeks at #1 on the dance chart—her first of many dance #1s. In Britain, the single was released in January 1984 and hit #6 in February; it was then re-released in the summer of 1985 and peaked at #2 in the same week that another Madonna single, “Into the Groove” held the #1 spot (she also had position #19 that week with “Crazy for You”).
The track was the last recorded for Madonna, having been added to the album after it turned out another song, “Ain’t No Big Deal,” couldn’t be used because it’s original producer, who had produced Madonna’s demo that included the song, had sold it to another act. Madonna brought in her boyfriend “Jellybean” Benitez, who suggested she record “Holiday,” which had been offered to former Supremes member Mary Wilson, who turned it down.
The breezy track has proven to be one of Madonna’s most enduring classics and still receives frequent airplay on adult top 40 stations. Madonna has also included “Holiday” in the setlist in all but the current concert tours, often as an encore number. The track is Madonna simply musing about how nice it would be to go on vacation. The instrumentation is the same as that on most of Madonna’s tracks—synthesizers and drum machines, although it also includes a great keyboard solo during the song’s bridge, which is the song’s best moment.
“Holiday” was remixed by Benitez in 1987 for inclusion on Madonna’s You Can Dance retrospective. This version was then edited down for inclusion on Madonna’s 1990 greatest hits collection, The Immaculate Collection. In 1991, the single was again re-released in Britain, as well as a maxi-single known as “The Holiday Collection,” which included the original version of “Holiday” plus three other hits.
There is no proper video for “Holiday,” however, many consider her performance of the track on the TV show “Solid Gold” to serve as a good stand-in.
UK Singles Chart Commentary, 7/29/2006
1. Don't Stop Me Now / Please, Please - McFly
McFly scores their 9th straight top 10 hit and their 5th #1 with a double A-side of "Don't Stop Me Now," a remake of the Queen song, and "Please Please," a new track. It's a charity release, with the proceeds going to Sport Relief. Neither track appears on McFly's last album.
2. Unfaithful - Rihanna
Rihanna scores her 3rd #2 hit this week with the ballad "Unfaithful." She's been stopped from #1 by Oasis, Gorillaz, Gnarls Barkley, and now McFly, so her lack of a #1 is really just bad luck, as shown by the fact that "SOS" is one of the best-selling singles of the year so far.
5. You Give Me Something - James Morrison
Could this be the next James Blunt? British singer James Morrison hits the top 10 this week with his debut single, "You Give Me Something," a classic and classy pop track. Don't know much about James yet, but apparently he's only 21, which should give this lady a reason to be interested.
10. Smiley Faces - Gnarls Barkley
So how do you follow-up the best-selling hit of the year and the longest-running #1 single in 12 years? Apparently by scoring a lousy #10 placing for its follow-up, despite the fact that it's a decent track. It may be counter-intuitive, but it's actually pretty hard to follow-up mega hits. Look at Daniel Powter's lack of success with anything other than "Bad Day," which remains his only top 40 hit despite having released 3 other singles. Gnarls Barkley, like Powter, may be victims of their own success, with the music-buying public refusing to go in for anything by them other than "Crazy."
16. Tell Me Baby - Red Hot Chili Peppers
Here's another follow-up disappointment, although here I suspect it's because their fans have already bought the album, Stadium Arcadium, one the year's biggest hits. The Peppers have acutally never managed two top 10 hits from the same album, and the pattern here echoes that of their last album, 2002's By the Way, which gave us a #2 single in "By the Way," followed by the #11 placing of the second single, "The Zephyr Song." "Tell Me Baby," like "Dani California" embodies the classic RHCP sound and is a decent single from a once-troubled band that is now celebrating their third straight hit album.
18. Ain't No Other Man - Christina Aguilera
Christina Aguilera's fabulous new single "Ain't No Other Man," debuts at #18 on downloads, and is a strong challenger for #1 next week. If it makes it, it will be her fifth record to reach the top. Last time she charted was the end of 2004, hitting #4 in November with "Car Wash" and then #5 in December as a guest on Nelly's "Tilt Ya Head Back."
22. Never Gonna Be the Same - Sean Paul
23. Gimme That - Chris Brown
The law of diminishing returns is proven yet again this week by Sean Paul and Chris Brown. Their latest albums scored them #2 hits--"We Be Burnin"" for Sean Paul and "Run It!" for Chris Brown, follwed by tracks that just missed the top 10. Now they're outside the top 40.
25. Chasing Cars - Snow Patrol
I'm crossing my fingers this will go top 10 next week, as it's a beautiful song from them. Downloads only this week.
30. Eleanor Put Your Boots On - Franz Ferdinand
Again, it's the law of diminishing returns, as the fourth single from Franz Ferdinand's second album, You Could Have It So Much Better, limps in at #30, despite being a fantastic song. Second-best release from the album in my opinion after "Do You Want To."
36. Tell Me Why - Supermode
The looped-vocal House treatment strikes Jimmy Sommerville this week, as his band Bronski Beat's '80s hit gets recycled for the new century by Supermode to become "Tell Me Why." Top 10 next week?
McFly scores their 9th straight top 10 hit and their 5th #1 with a double A-side of "Don't Stop Me Now," a remake of the Queen song, and "Please Please," a new track. It's a charity release, with the proceeds going to Sport Relief. Neither track appears on McFly's last album.
2. Unfaithful - Rihanna
Rihanna scores her 3rd #2 hit this week with the ballad "Unfaithful." She's been stopped from #1 by Oasis, Gorillaz, Gnarls Barkley, and now McFly, so her lack of a #1 is really just bad luck, as shown by the fact that "SOS" is one of the best-selling singles of the year so far.
5. You Give Me Something - James Morrison
Could this be the next James Blunt? British singer James Morrison hits the top 10 this week with his debut single, "You Give Me Something," a classic and classy pop track. Don't know much about James yet, but apparently he's only 21, which should give this lady a reason to be interested.
10. Smiley Faces - Gnarls Barkley
So how do you follow-up the best-selling hit of the year and the longest-running #1 single in 12 years? Apparently by scoring a lousy #10 placing for its follow-up, despite the fact that it's a decent track. It may be counter-intuitive, but it's actually pretty hard to follow-up mega hits. Look at Daniel Powter's lack of success with anything other than "Bad Day," which remains his only top 40 hit despite having released 3 other singles. Gnarls Barkley, like Powter, may be victims of their own success, with the music-buying public refusing to go in for anything by them other than "Crazy."
16. Tell Me Baby - Red Hot Chili Peppers
Here's another follow-up disappointment, although here I suspect it's because their fans have already bought the album, Stadium Arcadium, one the year's biggest hits. The Peppers have acutally never managed two top 10 hits from the same album, and the pattern here echoes that of their last album, 2002's By the Way, which gave us a #2 single in "By the Way," followed by the #11 placing of the second single, "The Zephyr Song." "Tell Me Baby," like "Dani California" embodies the classic RHCP sound and is a decent single from a once-troubled band that is now celebrating their third straight hit album.
18. Ain't No Other Man - Christina Aguilera
Christina Aguilera's fabulous new single "Ain't No Other Man," debuts at #18 on downloads, and is a strong challenger for #1 next week. If it makes it, it will be her fifth record to reach the top. Last time she charted was the end of 2004, hitting #4 in November with "Car Wash" and then #5 in December as a guest on Nelly's "Tilt Ya Head Back."
22. Never Gonna Be the Same - Sean Paul
23. Gimme That - Chris Brown
The law of diminishing returns is proven yet again this week by Sean Paul and Chris Brown. Their latest albums scored them #2 hits--"We Be Burnin"" for Sean Paul and "Run It!" for Chris Brown, follwed by tracks that just missed the top 10. Now they're outside the top 40.
25. Chasing Cars - Snow Patrol
I'm crossing my fingers this will go top 10 next week, as it's a beautiful song from them. Downloads only this week.
30. Eleanor Put Your Boots On - Franz Ferdinand
Again, it's the law of diminishing returns, as the fourth single from Franz Ferdinand's second album, You Could Have It So Much Better, limps in at #30, despite being a fantastic song. Second-best release from the album in my opinion after "Do You Want To."
36. Tell Me Why - Supermode
The looped-vocal House treatment strikes Jimmy Sommerville this week, as his band Bronski Beat's '80s hit gets recycled for the new century by Supermode to become "Tell Me Why." Top 10 next week?
Saturday, July 22, 2006
Madonna Album: Madonna (1983)
Madonna
Madonna
Release: July 27, 1983
1. Lucky Star
2. Borderline
3. Burning Up
4. I Know It
5. Holiday
6. Think of Me
7. Physical Attraction
8. Everybody
Producer: Reggie Lucas (also John “Jellybean” Benitez and Mark Kamins)
Writer: Madonna, Reggie Lucas (“Borderline” and “Physical Attraction”) and Curtis Hudson and Lisa Stevens (“Holiday”)
Having released two singles that became decent dance hits, Madonna got the go-ahead to produce her first album. Working with Reggie Lucas, who had produced second single “Burning Up,” Madonna began work on the R&B-flavored dance pop collection. With Lucas, they crafted “Lucky Star,” “Borderline,” “I Know It,” and “Think of Me.” An additional song, “Ain’t No Big Deal,” written by her demo producer Stephen Bray, was recorded but couldn’t be used. Madonna found working with Lucas frustrating; being a seasoned record producer, he had his own way of doing things. Madonna being Madonna, she had her way too. After the completion of the album’s first seven songs, she was unhappy with the results and felt like Lucas had over-produced the songs. She solicited her then boyfriend John “Jellybean” Benitez to remix the completed tracks, and worked with him to record one more song, “Holiday.” Although Benitez didn’t get a producer credit, he polished the work to Madonna’s satisfaction.
Madonna has aged gracefully and still sounds fresh today owing to the current trend of pop songs being inspired by early ’80s dance music. At the time, the album fit prominently into the current keyboard and bass ‘80s dance sound, which developed out of the rejection of the ‘70s dance sound, disco. The album received mostly positive reviews from critics—the Rolling Stone remarked that her “girlish hiccup” distinguished her from the crowd. The cover features Gary Heery’s provocative black-and-white, head-on shot of Madonna, decked out in punkish ‘80s chains and rubber bracelets with her trademark (fake) mole above her lip. The album only peaked at #8 on the Billboard albums chart, but being Madonna’s first album, has sold well over time; to date it has been certified 5 x platinum.
I would rate this album a 4 out of 5. It’s solid work, although not very revealing. It’s also a bit short, but a good start for what would come.
Upcoming...
Here's what's upcoming in the next few months that I'm most excited about:
Scissor Sisters. Lead single "I Don't Feel Like Dancing" goes on sale at digital outlets next Friday; Ta-Dah is out September 18.
Christina Aguilera. Back to Basics, August 14
Justin Timberlake. FutureSex/LoveSounds, September 11
The Killers. Sam's Town, September 18.
Scissor Sisters. Lead single "I Don't Feel Like Dancing" goes on sale at digital outlets next Friday; Ta-Dah is out September 18.
Christina Aguilera. Back to Basics, August 14
Justin Timberlake. FutureSex/LoveSounds, September 11
The Killers. Sam's Town, September 18.
Ladies Can't Get No Love
So there's been a great number of recent singles from well-known female artists, of which a surprising number seem to be tanking on US Radio. The Washington Post has an article about the lack of airplay for Madonna's Confessions on a Dancefloor singles, which of course are doing very well in other countries. Besides Madonna though, other established female artists are coming up short.
Christina Aguilera's "Aint No Other Man" peaked a couple of weeks ago at #6. Although that's nothing to snicker at, I thought it would do better--top 3 at least, given that it's such a great single for her, certainly much better than "Dirrty," the flop lead single from her last album. Jessica Simpson is still rising up the chart (she's #19 up from #22 on today's Mediabase Mainstream Hit chart) with "A Public Affair," but it's climbing slower than I expected.
In real trouble are two R&B mainstays. First, there's Janet Jackson, who's recent single "Call on Me," the lead from her forthcoming album 20 Years Old, stalled on the R&R Top 40 chart at #32. Janet needed a hit to launch this album, given the poor reception to her last album, Damita Jo. But "Call on Me's" chart performance is even poorer than that of Damita Jo's lead single, "Just a Little While," which was out at the height of the nipplegate scandal and still reached #19.
More noteworthy though is the relatively poor performance of Beyonce's lead single from her forthcoming album. Unlike Jackson, Beyonce is much-loved by the pop music public of late, having scored two #1 singles from her first album a few years ago, and a #1 hit earlier this year with "Check On It." "Deja Vu," her current single, peaked this week on the medibase top 40 airplay chart at only #14, and it's declining pretty quickly.
The reason for this may simply be overkill--there's a lot of singles by solo female artists out right now--and the newcomers appear to have an advantage over the seasoned artists, especially if the seasoned artists are just doing the same ol' thing. The top 4 singles on the R&R top 40 chart this week are female artists: Nelly Furtado, Rihanna, Cassie, and Shakira. Furtado has of course completely reinvented herself to score one of the year's biggest hits, Rihanna and Cassie are fairly new and brand new respectively, and Shakira also has a pretty original single in "Hips Don't Lie." Other female artists that have had big hits this year include Natasha Bedingfield, Mary J. Blige, and Kelly Clarkson.
Christina Aguilera's "Aint No Other Man" peaked a couple of weeks ago at #6. Although that's nothing to snicker at, I thought it would do better--top 3 at least, given that it's such a great single for her, certainly much better than "Dirrty," the flop lead single from her last album. Jessica Simpson is still rising up the chart (she's #19 up from #22 on today's Mediabase Mainstream Hit chart) with "A Public Affair," but it's climbing slower than I expected.
In real trouble are two R&B mainstays. First, there's Janet Jackson, who's recent single "Call on Me," the lead from her forthcoming album 20 Years Old, stalled on the R&R Top 40 chart at #32. Janet needed a hit to launch this album, given the poor reception to her last album, Damita Jo. But "Call on Me's" chart performance is even poorer than that of Damita Jo's lead single, "Just a Little While," which was out at the height of the nipplegate scandal and still reached #19.
More noteworthy though is the relatively poor performance of Beyonce's lead single from her forthcoming album. Unlike Jackson, Beyonce is much-loved by the pop music public of late, having scored two #1 singles from her first album a few years ago, and a #1 hit earlier this year with "Check On It." "Deja Vu," her current single, peaked this week on the medibase top 40 airplay chart at only #14, and it's declining pretty quickly.
The reason for this may simply be overkill--there's a lot of singles by solo female artists out right now--and the newcomers appear to have an advantage over the seasoned artists, especially if the seasoned artists are just doing the same ol' thing. The top 4 singles on the R&R top 40 chart this week are female artists: Nelly Furtado, Rihanna, Cassie, and Shakira. Furtado has of course completely reinvented herself to score one of the year's biggest hits, Rihanna and Cassie are fairly new and brand new respectively, and Shakira also has a pretty original single in "Hips Don't Lie." Other female artists that have had big hits this year include Natasha Bedingfield, Mary J. Blige, and Kelly Clarkson.
Tuesday, July 18, 2006
Mercury Music Award Shortlist Announced
The shortlist for the Mercury Music Award--Britain's prestigious music award--was announced today. For those that don't know, the Mercury Music Award is an annual award given to one album selected from a list of 12 finalists. The nominees tend to be considered more critically acclaimed than the other major British music award, the Brit Awards, which tend to honor popular work. Mercury nominees run the gamut from the well-known to the unknown, and a typical year's shortlist usually has a good mix of rock, alternative, hip-hop, electronic, and folk. Last year, the award went to Antony & the Johnsons.
This year's list of nominees:
1. Arctic Monkeys - Whatever People Say I Am, That's What I'm Not
2. Editors - The Back Room
3. Guillemots - Through the Windowpain
4. Hot Chip - The Warning
5. Isobel Campbell & Mark Lanegan - Ballad of the Broken Seas
6. Lou Rhodes - Beloved One
7. Muse - Black Holes & Revelations
8. Richard Hawley - Coles Corner
9. Scritti Politti - White Bread Black Beer
10. Sway - This is my Demo
11. Thom York - The Eraser
12. Zoe Rahman - Melting Pot
Arctic Monkeys may appear to be the front-runner, but the Mercurys doesn't usually go to the obvious choice. Take last year, where Antony & the Johnsons took home the prize over front-running Kaiser Chiefs (the award was also controversial since Antony is based in New York, although he was born in Britain).
There's few popular choices this year. Muse's album has become a major hit and Thom York (of Radiohead) is certainly well-known, but the rest of the group is mostly newcomers and unknowns. Besides Arctic Monkeys, the only other album on this list I have is Isobel Campbell and Mark Lanegan's, which is a really cool record of dark country/folk/rock. The Editors interest me, as do the Guillemots. Hot Chip is mildly intriguing. I haven't been able to hear anything from jazz pianist Zoe Rahman or the Scritti Politti albums. The rest are either boring or as the Brits would say, not my cuppa tea. So my money's on the Guillemots, but my heart is currently with Campbell & Lanegan.
This year's list of nominees:
1. Arctic Monkeys - Whatever People Say I Am, That's What I'm Not
2. Editors - The Back Room
3. Guillemots - Through the Windowpain
4. Hot Chip - The Warning
5. Isobel Campbell & Mark Lanegan - Ballad of the Broken Seas
6. Lou Rhodes - Beloved One
7. Muse - Black Holes & Revelations
8. Richard Hawley - Coles Corner
9. Scritti Politti - White Bread Black Beer
10. Sway - This is my Demo
11. Thom York - The Eraser
12. Zoe Rahman - Melting Pot
Arctic Monkeys may appear to be the front-runner, but the Mercurys doesn't usually go to the obvious choice. Take last year, where Antony & the Johnsons took home the prize over front-running Kaiser Chiefs (the award was also controversial since Antony is based in New York, although he was born in Britain).
There's few popular choices this year. Muse's album has become a major hit and Thom York (of Radiohead) is certainly well-known, but the rest of the group is mostly newcomers and unknowns. Besides Arctic Monkeys, the only other album on this list I have is Isobel Campbell and Mark Lanegan's, which is a really cool record of dark country/folk/rock. The Editors interest me, as do the Guillemots. Hot Chip is mildly intriguing. I haven't been able to hear anything from jazz pianist Zoe Rahman or the Scritti Politti albums. The rest are either boring or as the Brits would say, not my cuppa tea. So my money's on the Guillemots, but my heart is currently with Campbell & Lanegan.
Madonna Single: Burning Up / Physical Attraction (1983)
Madonna
“Burning Up” / “Physical Attraction”
Release: March 9, 1983
Burning Up (12” version)
Physical Attraction (Album version)
Producer: Reggie Lucas
Writer: Madonna
Cover art: Martin Burgoyne
With “Everybody” being a modest success, Sire/Warner Bros. green lit a second single. This time, the record company chose another, more experienced producer, Reggie Lucas, to helm the project, who would ultimately be the principal producer on Madonna. His influence is evident on “Burning Up,” which features an obviously more lavish production than Mark Kamins’s work on “Everybody.” “Burning Up” is a faster, tighter track. Although still scored most with synthesizers and sharp drums, there’s also a few blares of electric guitar.
Thematically, “Burning Up” turns to one of Madonna’s favorite enduring subjects: Sex. “Do you wanna see me down on my knees?” she asks, “Or bending over backwards, now would you be pleased?” “I have no shame,” she says, a fact that would be proven again and again through her provocative manipulation of the media. “Burning Up” is a solid dance track and holds up great in the current pop landscape obsessed with early ‘80s sounds (See Jessica Simpson’s new single, “A Public Affair,” which owes much to Madonna’s early sound). While technically a double A-side single, “Physical Attraction” isn’t nearly as interesting. It’s slower, and simpler—more like “Everybody.” It’s unusually long too, at almost 7 minutes.
“Burning Up” also charted at #3 on the Billboard dance chart, but didn’t dent the Billboard Hot 100, not even the Bubbling Under chart. The single was not released in the UK. “Physical Attraction” also appears as an “extended” remix (it’s actually shorter than the original version) on You Can Dance.
The video was Madonna’s first proper studio music video, and was directed by Steve Barron, who had just famously directed Michael Jackson’s video classic “Billie Jean.” The “boyfriend” in the video was apparently Madonna’s real boyfriend at the time, Norris Burroughs. The sexy video features some interesting visual effects, such as Madonna hanging her hat on a laser beam.
Sunday, July 16, 2006
Madonna Single: Everybody (1982)
Madonna
“Everybody”
Release: October 6, 1982
Tracks:
Everybody (12” version)
Everybody (Dub)
Producer: Mark Kamins
Writer: Madonna
Illustration by Lou Beach
Billboard Dance/Club Play: #3, 16 weeks on chart
“Everybody” was Madonna’s first single, released in the fall of 1982 before plans for the Madonna album had taken shape. Although originally written by Madonna and Stephen Bray for her 4-track demo tape, the song is credited only to Madonna and is produced for the single by Mark Kamins, a New York DJ that was among the first to play Madonna’s demo at the well-known club Danceteria. Sire/Warner Brothers chose Kamins over Bray, believing the latter to be inexperienced. The 4-song tape, produced by Stephen Bray, included: 1) Ain’t No Big Deal, 2) Everybody, 3) Don’t You Know, and 4), Stay.
The track is a fairly simple R&B-flavored dance tune: synthesizers and drum beats with vocals. The lyrics contain nothing more than in invitation to dance, “dance and sing, get up and do your thing,” sings Madonna over and over. Madonna starts the song with a spoken intro—one of many of her songs to feature spoken, rather than sung, portions. Although a more formidable singer now, back in the early ‘80s it was clear Madonna had little (if any) formal vocal training. Both her range and vocal strength were limited, but her breathy delivery added a dash of sex appeal to make up for those shortcomings. It's a decent track, but not a classic, important only because it was her first official release.
The single did not chart on the Billboard Hot 100, but it did make #7 on the Billboard Bubbling Under chart, which charted songs expected to hit the Billboard Hot 100. It did make #3 on the Billboard Dance/Club Play chart, a chart Madonna would go to rule over the next 24 years, scoring more #1 hits on it than any other artist. As Madonna was not featured on the single cover, many people did not know what she looked like; some assumed she was black, and she got some limited airplay on R&B stations. “Everybody” was not released in the UK. An extended remix of “Everybody” appears on Madonna’s 1987 dance retrospective, You Can Dance, and a “Dub Version” of the song appears on cassette versions of that album.
The low-budget video is very simple by Madonna standards. It's just her and two other dancers in a club. The moves her choreographed by Madonna's brother, Christopher Ciccone.
The ww_adh Madonna Project
Starting today, I've decided to embark on a Madonna project, which should last some time. Madonna is my favorite pop musician, arguably the most important current pop artist. I'm going to profile each of her singles and albums, with a focus on their history, quality, and trivia. As of right now, this undertaking will comprise about 70 singles, 11 albums, 5 collections, and 2 major soundtrack appearances (soundtracks that include at least 2 Madonna tracks). I'll put these articles up periodically in chronological order of release. Singles will include those released in either the US or the UK, as well as significant airplay-only tracks. Even if you're not a Madonna fan, I hope you find this interesting. You might learn something--I'm sure I will. Kicking it off is Madonna's very first single from 1983, "Everybody." Enjoy.
Saturday, July 15, 2006
UK Singles Chart Analysis, 7/15/2006
My blog’s been neglected lately, and probably will be for the next couple of weeks until my life is more settled.
1. Smile – Lily Allen
Last week she topped the airplay chart and this week newcomer Lily Allen is riding high with first single, “Smile,” climbing all the way up to #1. The track’s timeless sound could have come from any year from now back to the ‘20s, and the breezy track is a perfect summer hit. The British singer has been compared to everyone from Sugababes to Norah Jones, embodying a sound both modern and old school. If that’s not enough to love her, she’s also the daughter of actor Keith Allen (Shallow Grave). Her hotly anticipated debut album, Alright, Still, is out July 17.
3. In the Morning – Razorlight
I’m a big fan of this song, and pleased to see it’s become Razorlight’s second-biggest hit, bested only by last year’s #2 “Somewhere Else.” Razorlight’s second album, Razorlight, is out July 17.
5. Last Request – Paolo Nutini
Here’s this summer’s first contender to be the next James Blunt. Paolo Nutini is not Italian, but rather Scottish (Italian father, Scottish mother). His debut album is also out July 17th (big week for new releases!). A quick listen to preview tracks on his Web site confirms the Blunt comparison. The 18 year-old singer has been getting lots of British press and was recently asked to join the Rolling Stones on tour. “Last Request” is no “You’re Beautiful,” but it’s a decent track. Hopefully he’ll follow it up with something more upbeat.
9. World Hold On (Children of the Sky) – Bob Sinclar Featuring Steve Edwards
The highest debut of the week come from Bob Sinclar, who just missed the top 10 earlier this year with “Love Generation” (#12). “World Hold On” is a rather uninspiring house track, but that didn’t stop it from topping the US dance chart this week, for a second week no less.
13. An Easier Affair – George Michael
The first release from the forthcoming George Michael retrospective, George Michael 25, fails to reach the top 10, landing at a rather unimpressive #13, the lowest a first single for him has ever charted. To be honest, it’s not that great, not nearly the quality of Patience’s first single “Amazing” or even the new cut from his last greatest hits collection, 1998’s “Outside.” It’s also questionable my Michael even needs a greatest hits package (other than to pay his mounting legal bills), since he’s had only a handful of them since 1998’s Ladies and Gentlemen collection.
18. Voodoo Child – Rogue Traders
The highest downloads-only debut of the week comes from Australian electro group Rogue Traders. Surely a top 10 next week. I know a lot of people like this, but I find it a bit grating, if only because the lead “singer” sounds awful. Good beat though.
20. We Are Your Friends – Justice vs. Simian
This is supposed to be really good, but I haven’t heard it yet, so no comment.
23. I Love My Chick – Busta Rhymes (Featuring Kelis)
Unfortunately, this dreck is expected to climb into the top 10 next week. The real version of this substitute’s “chick” with another term.
29. Hand on Your Heart – Jose Gonzalez
Gonzalez had his first hit earlier this year with the top 10 “Heartbeats,” a tender, acoustic guitar and vocal track. So what possessed him to follow that up with a similarly composed remake of Kylie’s #1 ‘80s hit “Hand on Your Heart?” The result is that a fun, upbeat pop gem gets turned into mush. Perhaps he’s trying to pay tribute to the pop singer until she’s able to return to the spotlight.
1. Smile – Lily Allen
Last week she topped the airplay chart and this week newcomer Lily Allen is riding high with first single, “Smile,” climbing all the way up to #1. The track’s timeless sound could have come from any year from now back to the ‘20s, and the breezy track is a perfect summer hit. The British singer has been compared to everyone from Sugababes to Norah Jones, embodying a sound both modern and old school. If that’s not enough to love her, she’s also the daughter of actor Keith Allen (Shallow Grave). Her hotly anticipated debut album, Alright, Still, is out July 17.
3. In the Morning – Razorlight
I’m a big fan of this song, and pleased to see it’s become Razorlight’s second-biggest hit, bested only by last year’s #2 “Somewhere Else.” Razorlight’s second album, Razorlight, is out July 17.
5. Last Request – Paolo Nutini
Here’s this summer’s first contender to be the next James Blunt. Paolo Nutini is not Italian, but rather Scottish (Italian father, Scottish mother). His debut album is also out July 17th (big week for new releases!). A quick listen to preview tracks on his Web site confirms the Blunt comparison. The 18 year-old singer has been getting lots of British press and was recently asked to join the Rolling Stones on tour. “Last Request” is no “You’re Beautiful,” but it’s a decent track. Hopefully he’ll follow it up with something more upbeat.
9. World Hold On (Children of the Sky) – Bob Sinclar Featuring Steve Edwards
The highest debut of the week come from Bob Sinclar, who just missed the top 10 earlier this year with “Love Generation” (#12). “World Hold On” is a rather uninspiring house track, but that didn’t stop it from topping the US dance chart this week, for a second week no less.
13. An Easier Affair – George Michael
The first release from the forthcoming George Michael retrospective, George Michael 25, fails to reach the top 10, landing at a rather unimpressive #13, the lowest a first single for him has ever charted. To be honest, it’s not that great, not nearly the quality of Patience’s first single “Amazing” or even the new cut from his last greatest hits collection, 1998’s “Outside.” It’s also questionable my Michael even needs a greatest hits package (other than to pay his mounting legal bills), since he’s had only a handful of them since 1998’s Ladies and Gentlemen collection.
18. Voodoo Child – Rogue Traders
The highest downloads-only debut of the week comes from Australian electro group Rogue Traders. Surely a top 10 next week. I know a lot of people like this, but I find it a bit grating, if only because the lead “singer” sounds awful. Good beat though.
20. We Are Your Friends – Justice vs. Simian
This is supposed to be really good, but I haven’t heard it yet, so no comment.
23. I Love My Chick – Busta Rhymes (Featuring Kelis)
Unfortunately, this dreck is expected to climb into the top 10 next week. The real version of this substitute’s “chick” with another term.
29. Hand on Your Heart – Jose Gonzalez
Gonzalez had his first hit earlier this year with the top 10 “Heartbeats,” a tender, acoustic guitar and vocal track. So what possessed him to follow that up with a similarly composed remake of Kylie’s #1 ‘80s hit “Hand on Your Heart?” The result is that a fun, upbeat pop gem gets turned into mush. Perhaps he’s trying to pay tribute to the pop singer until she’s able to return to the spotlight.
Friday, July 07, 2006
UK Singles Chart Analysis, 7/8/2006
1. Hips Don’t Lie – Shakira Featuring Wyclef Jean
It’s already topped every chart in the US, and now in its 3rd week, Shakira scores her first #1 hit on the UK singles chart with “Hips Don’t Lie,” becoming her biggest hit ever in the UK and all over the world. She knocks Nelly Furtado from #1, who in fact knocked Shakira from #1 in the US. Take that!
3. Buttons – The Pussycat Dolls Featuring Snoop Dogg
The Pussycat Dolls keep up their winning streak with their 4th top 3 hit, “Buttons,” which follows the #2 peak of last single “Beep.” I really don’t care much for this song, as they’ve strayed too far into hip-hop territory for my taste, but the song’s a genuine hit in both the UK and the US.
5. Sexy Love – Ne-Yo
Ne-Yo follows up his #1 hit “So Sick” with a top 5 placing for “Sexy Love.” Ne-Yo smartly skipped over “So Sick’s” US follow-up, the sexist “When You’re Mad,” in favor of this superior retro-flavored track.
7. She Moves in Her Own Way – The Kooks
The Kooks follow-up the top 5 career-best placing of “Naïve” with another Top 10 hit. “She Moves in Her Own Way” is a fantastic single, and remains at #2 on the UK airplay chart. The band is bigger than ever now, and their album Inside In/Inside Out has responded in kind, climbing up to #3 this week on the albums chart.
13. Smile – Lily Allen
Newcomer Lily Allen has the official highest debut of the week with her first single, “Smile,” which charts quite high on downloads only. It’s a strong contender for #1 next week. Lily Allen does take after people like Corinne Bailey Rae and Norah Jones, but it’s still a pretty decent track in it’s own right.
15. In the Morning – Razorlight
Another strong debut based on digital sales is Razorlight’s latest, “In the Morning,” from their forthcoming new album. The band first hit it big 2 years ago with top 10 “Golden Touch,” and then hit #2 last year with “Somewhere Else.” Their new release is just as good and should be top 5 next week.
19. Blood on the Dancefloor – Michael Jackson
Michael’s blood’s been shed, which means we’ve finally come to the end of the ill-conceived re-release of a large set of Michael Jackson’s greatest video hits. Singles were chosen because of their hit status and video (so great songs such as “Man in the Mirror” that didn’t have videos didn’t make the cut). Here’s how the lot performed, from best on down, with their original best peaks in parentheses. None of the tracks spent more than a week in the top 40, which is to be expected considering they were limited releases with limited in-store availability. His earlier hits fared better than his later ones, which may have been more a sign of fatigue for the process than an indicator of their success, given that many of Jackson’s later releases were significantly bigger hits in the UK than in the US, particularly “Earth Song,” which spent 6 weeks at #1, but was the lowest peforming track of the re-release bunch. Classic “Billie Jean,” a #1 in the UK and the US, easily topped the lot deservedly as Michael Jackson’s best single ever.
#11 Billie Jean (#1)
#15 Leave Me Alone (#2)
#15 Beat It (#3)
#15 Rock With You (#7)
#16 Bad (#3)
#17 Don’t Stop Til You Get Enough (#3)
#17 The Way You Make Me Feel (#3)
#17 Dirty Diana (#4)#18 Black or White (#1)
#19 Blood on the Dancefloor (#1)
#19 Smooth Criminal (#8)
#22 Remember the Time (#3)
#22 Stranger in Moscow (#4)
#22 Jam (#13)
#26 They Don’t Care About Us (#4)
#27 Heal the World (#2)
#30 You Are Not Alone (#1)
#34 Earth Song (#1)
22. Breakaway – Kelly Clarkson
“Breakaway” was Kelly Clarkson’s first US release from her second album of the same name, but was held back from UK release until now, as the 5th and final release from her album. It doesn’t do very well, despite the fact that it’s #6 on the UK airplay chart. Kelly Clarkson has become a genuine hit in the UK over the last 2 years, having landed top 10 hits with “Since U Been Gone,” “Behind These Hazel Eyes,” and “Because of You,” all of which were HUGE top 40 hits in the US. Surely she’ll be back in the top 10 once she gets some new material out.
39. That Old Pair of Jeans – Fatboy Slim
Eight years ago, Fatboy Slim released an album that scored four top 10 hits, “The Rockafeller Skank” (#6), “Gangster Tripping” (#3), “Praise You” (#1), and “Right Here, Right Now” (#2). But that was 8 years ago. Clearly, no one cares anymore.
It’s already topped every chart in the US, and now in its 3rd week, Shakira scores her first #1 hit on the UK singles chart with “Hips Don’t Lie,” becoming her biggest hit ever in the UK and all over the world. She knocks Nelly Furtado from #1, who in fact knocked Shakira from #1 in the US. Take that!
3. Buttons – The Pussycat Dolls Featuring Snoop Dogg
The Pussycat Dolls keep up their winning streak with their 4th top 3 hit, “Buttons,” which follows the #2 peak of last single “Beep.” I really don’t care much for this song, as they’ve strayed too far into hip-hop territory for my taste, but the song’s a genuine hit in both the UK and the US.
5. Sexy Love – Ne-Yo
Ne-Yo follows up his #1 hit “So Sick” with a top 5 placing for “Sexy Love.” Ne-Yo smartly skipped over “So Sick’s” US follow-up, the sexist “When You’re Mad,” in favor of this superior retro-flavored track.
7. She Moves in Her Own Way – The Kooks
The Kooks follow-up the top 5 career-best placing of “Naïve” with another Top 10 hit. “She Moves in Her Own Way” is a fantastic single, and remains at #2 on the UK airplay chart. The band is bigger than ever now, and their album Inside In/Inside Out has responded in kind, climbing up to #3 this week on the albums chart.
13. Smile – Lily Allen
Newcomer Lily Allen has the official highest debut of the week with her first single, “Smile,” which charts quite high on downloads only. It’s a strong contender for #1 next week. Lily Allen does take after people like Corinne Bailey Rae and Norah Jones, but it’s still a pretty decent track in it’s own right.
15. In the Morning – Razorlight
Another strong debut based on digital sales is Razorlight’s latest, “In the Morning,” from their forthcoming new album. The band first hit it big 2 years ago with top 10 “Golden Touch,” and then hit #2 last year with “Somewhere Else.” Their new release is just as good and should be top 5 next week.
19. Blood on the Dancefloor – Michael Jackson
Michael’s blood’s been shed, which means we’ve finally come to the end of the ill-conceived re-release of a large set of Michael Jackson’s greatest video hits. Singles were chosen because of their hit status and video (so great songs such as “Man in the Mirror” that didn’t have videos didn’t make the cut). Here’s how the lot performed, from best on down, with their original best peaks in parentheses. None of the tracks spent more than a week in the top 40, which is to be expected considering they were limited releases with limited in-store availability. His earlier hits fared better than his later ones, which may have been more a sign of fatigue for the process than an indicator of their success, given that many of Jackson’s later releases were significantly bigger hits in the UK than in the US, particularly “Earth Song,” which spent 6 weeks at #1, but was the lowest peforming track of the re-release bunch. Classic “Billie Jean,” a #1 in the UK and the US, easily topped the lot deservedly as Michael Jackson’s best single ever.
#11 Billie Jean (#1)
#15 Leave Me Alone (#2)
#15 Beat It (#3)
#15 Rock With You (#7)
#16 Bad (#3)
#17 Don’t Stop Til You Get Enough (#3)
#17 The Way You Make Me Feel (#3)
#17 Dirty Diana (#4)#18 Black or White (#1)
#19 Blood on the Dancefloor (#1)
#19 Smooth Criminal (#8)
#22 Remember the Time (#3)
#22 Stranger in Moscow (#4)
#22 Jam (#13)
#26 They Don’t Care About Us (#4)
#27 Heal the World (#2)
#30 You Are Not Alone (#1)
#34 Earth Song (#1)
22. Breakaway – Kelly Clarkson
“Breakaway” was Kelly Clarkson’s first US release from her second album of the same name, but was held back from UK release until now, as the 5th and final release from her album. It doesn’t do very well, despite the fact that it’s #6 on the UK airplay chart. Kelly Clarkson has become a genuine hit in the UK over the last 2 years, having landed top 10 hits with “Since U Been Gone,” “Behind These Hazel Eyes,” and “Because of You,” all of which were HUGE top 40 hits in the US. Surely she’ll be back in the top 10 once she gets some new material out.
39. That Old Pair of Jeans – Fatboy Slim
Eight years ago, Fatboy Slim released an album that scored four top 10 hits, “The Rockafeller Skank” (#6), “Gangster Tripping” (#3), “Praise You” (#1), and “Right Here, Right Now” (#2). But that was 8 years ago. Clearly, no one cares anymore.
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