Hey! Remember the 80's?: Recent Episodes
Joe Christopher and Kari Race
Join your hosts Joe Christopher and Kari Race as they discuss all the outrageous hits from the 80's! Which songs still hold up today, and which songs should be left in the 80's? We'll cover all the well-known hits from the decade (Ghostbusters, anyone?), and even songs that you haven't heard in 30 years (paging Karla Bonoff). Dust off your Members Only jacket and join us for segments like "Trash or Treasure" and "Songs That Time Forgot!" Chime in on Twitter @hrt80s or on Facebook.
Kari and Joe are back from hiatus with a bunch of tidbits covering the past couple months. Are you dying to know what they thought of Madonna's new album? Or the Kylie documentary on Netflix? Well you are in luck.
Then it's time to go just a bit outside, bookended by hard rock deeper hits from Van Halen and BulletBoys with a middle full of REO Speedwagon and Erasure. You never know what you are going to get at the other end of the Hot 100, folks.
This episode is dedicated to our dear friend Chad.
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Get in losers, we're taking a road trip through the past seven years and 300 episodes of this podcast, can you flipping believe it?
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Take your seats, your TAs Joe and Kari are ready to go over this week's lecture by Professor Kinzer in Music Theory 101 all about drones, those unchanging pitches held for a number of beats or even notes repeated over and over for an extended amount of time.
We'll talk about some prime examples, including one of Kari's favorite songs from the end of the decade and it's suave remix, a big UK hit from an female septet and the first pop hit from a legitimate mega singer-songwriter-producer superstar for the ages. And what does Indiana Jones have to do with it (no really, someone tell us).
Plus, hear Joe and Kari's review of their recent Ladies' Night out!
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Stop screening your calls and PICK UP on this new episode of Hey! Remember the 80's? After some Tidbits about Jem and a daytime concert, you'll get the skinny on how to use a landline telephone (remember those?). Phones were BIG in the 80's, so naturally there are lots of SONGS about telephones, including a number one Dance hit from Cheyne, an attempted comeback from Village People, and a pre-fame Lisa Stansfield. In the final segment, you'll hear how Madonna and Prince met and FINALLY collaborated on a song that saw the light of day at the end of the decade.
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It's a mish mash of an episode with tidbits covering some recent songs with 80s flavor and a roundup of documentary news, including a "docu-concert" called The Phil Collins Story that mystified Kari and Joe even after several minutes of discussion.
Then they talk new broadway musicals based on 80s movies, there's something for everyone... teenage vampires or lifelong female friendships (with music written by a 93 YEAR OLD MAN).
Finally, there was a call on the Request Line for the classic and iconic song The Roof is on Fire, so Joe and Kari get into the history of that track by Rock Master Scott and the Dynamic Three. Join them for all the fun!
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Hello, hello, hello! Episode 296 is here, along with some documentary Tidbits! Then it's time for a new segment called Dance Chart Fun (aka Kari Got a New Chart Book). You'll hear about some big (and not so big) names that made it to the Dance Chart in the 80s. Was ABC trying to pivot from Dance in the late 80s? And why did they put a crazed, murderous Dennis the Menace type in their video?? You'll also hear about some crazy covers, an influential R&B group, and an unexpected Dance Chart entry from an unlikely Canadian rocker.
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Slowly but surely Kari and Joe are making their way through every song that peaked on the Hot 100 in the 80s between number 41 and number 100. In this edition, it's three songs from early 1980 and three from late 1989. Get ready for an all night thing, Cheap Trick paying homage to the Fab Four, The Jets paying homage to a malfunctioning drive-thru speaker and a soundtrack sequel song that never should have been raised from the dead.
Also, did you ever think someone could make a song written by Prince boring AF? Find out which 80s artist said "hold my beer" and did just that. All that plus Harry Styles covering Tears for Fears, a review of the new Squeeze album and more meme culture and Twitter stan banter than you ever knew you wanted.
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Get ready for some SUPERsized tidbits! You wanna hear about the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame nominees... we got you! How about a review of the documentary Billy Idol Should Be Dead... hell yea, we got that too! Oh, what about Squeeze in the Radio 2 Piano Room... no problem. All that and morrrrrrrrrrrrrrrreeeeeeee can be found in this week's episode.
Plus we promised you R&B Superstars and we keep our promises. We talk about Harold Melvin and the Blue Notes. What connection do they have to Katy's 50th birthday party? Who is Katy? Why was this party so epic? You gotta tune in to find out!!
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Hi there! Taking inspiration from a playlist by music guru and MP3 blog pioneer Matthew Perpetua, Joe and Kari are exploring songs with the "crazed energy or manic intensity" of a good ol 80s coke psychosis. Lindsey Buckingham was definitely (ALLEGEDLY) on something when he decided to record "I Want You". Go West also certainly (ALLEGEDLY) had a line for "party favors" in the "Call Me" video budget. And Bobby Brown... him, Slimer and Vigo were for sure (ALLEGEDLY) doing some skiing on the set of Ghostbusters II. Joe and Kari break down all the tea around these wild tracks and more!
Also, let's talk about one of the cheesiest, and worst, soundtrack songs of the 80s. No disassemble. Bye there!
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Join Kari and Joe as they turn the pages on the February 4, 1984 issue of Billboard magazine. An Australian group is asking a computer for dating advice, R&B stations are getting Fresh and Genesis has got a ghost story to keep you up at night. We'll also sip on some cognac and nibble on bologna with Doug and the Slugs, get regretful with Deborah Allen and hear from both the DLR and SH versions of Van Halen!
Plus, music documentary talk in tidbits, HRT90s style!
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It's time for an Adult Contemporary Education (topic courtesy of the one and only Dom.) Kari and Joe talk about AC gems that did not cross over to the Hot 100, or if they did, barely made a dent on that chart. The beautiful voices of Sade, Mica Paris, Barbra Streisand and Dionne Warwick are here to soothe you and there's also some MEN we cover as well (Kari throws salt over her shoulder, lights some sage, and grabs a crystal to cleanse her soul.)
Plus, a large tidbit about the origin about one of Joe's favorite songs/most beautiful songs of the decade.
Listen carefully, because there will be a pop quiz on this material next class!
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Join Kari and Joe to cover the second disc of Hits 80's, the crazy French compilation Joe bought at the Hollywood Bowl and then carted all along Hollywood Boulevard while he nearly froze to death (sarcasm). You will hear about Boys, and Boys and Girls, and Steps, and Change, and slinky, sexy, erotic funk. But most importantly, you will hear about a ROBOT who crashed a spaceship over the north pole and is calling to you, so be sure to answer the phone.
Kari also gives a rundown of the 80s legends she saw in concert recently. You don't want to miss this episode!
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Kari and Joe say goodbye to 2025 with a short episode that goes just a bit outside in 1980. Find out if nuclear weapons owe you a beer and what in the world new wave heavy metal pop sounds like.
There's also a segment that has sat in the archives for awhile: That's What Friends Are For. Big Country got a really big name to help them out on the title track to their third album, but the band's record label went and screwed it up in the end.
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Kari and Joe have friend of the podcast Chad back to revisit a topic he thought of a couple years back: songs that debuted just as the decade was ending that probably are more 90s but that we still love.
This time around Joe Cocker, The Smithereens, After 7, Pixies are in the mix along with one acid house DJ with too many names (Dancing Danny D, Danny D, D-Mob) and another acid house DJ with infinite uses of the lyric "welcome to the 90s". Thanks dude, we have been welcomed.
All this, plus tidbits covering the Christmas UK number one and a cover of the most beloved 80s Christmas song that raises so many questions and provides no answers. Turn off your 37th rewatch of An Innocent Man, it will be there when you get back, and listen!
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Join Joe, Kari and Charlie to celebrate Charlie's 80s Attic, reminisce about almost six years on the air and hear some big news about the future of the station.
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Join Kari and Joe for a crazy ride through a compilation Joe bought for 50% off at the Hollywood Bowl called Hits 80’s, and with that weird syntax and punctuation, you guessed right, it’s from France! And this episode has one of the strangest mixes of music we’ve covered in awhile!
Get ready to hear from a 14-year-old American theater kid, learn all about “new beat” music and go “around a dream” (twice). After all that, you will need some Scotch, the band and the liquor. Oh, and of course, it was Europe in the 80s so there’s a Stock-Aitken-Waterman production in the mix.
All that, plus a shocking surprise from Joe’s latest trip to the grocery store… DUN DUN DUN DUN.
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Celebrate Native American Heritage Month with Joe and Kari as they discuss some 80s acts with Native American heritage. And we’re ping ponging wildly between genres in this episode, going from southern rock to new wave to thrash metal to adult contemporary. There’s something for everyone in the mix! Think you won’t enjoy it… well, never say never. Oh, and also, this episode is your fate, DON’T DEBATE.
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Another great suggestion from Dom finds Joe and Kari exploring some literal bops and bangers... 80s songs that actually have those words in the titles. And this episode is a real international affair, with acts from Australia, Belgium, Sweden and Oklahoma in the mix. Are you are a Bop Girl doing The Modern Bop or maybe your Heart Goes Bang (or Bang Bang)? No matter how you bop or bang, hopefully you will find something to love in this episode.
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Join Kari and Joe as they cover some soundtrack songs of the 80s, including two versions of a theme to a cult classic that was originally going to star Debbie Gibson, the demo version of what would become one of the biggest soundtrack songs of the decade and a collaboration between Roy Orbison and... Glenn Danzig??!!?? Yes, it's as weird as it sounds.
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Join Joe, Kari and special guest DJ Matt Bailer to discuss Matt's special project revisiting the music of 1980 to create his own personalized top 40 charts! This has led him to discover so many great lost songs he wants to share with Joe, Kari and all of you, so get ready to take a free ride, spend some time in the kitchen, fall in love, shout and scream and learn how to be a hustler (if you wanna get on).
1980 usually means boring boring boring, but not this time. Tune in and find out!
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First up in tidbits, Kari and Joe also talk 80s artists collaborations with Miley Cyrus and once again beg some millionaires to just go to therapy already.
Then they are going just a bit outside yet again to talk about those songs that hit the Hot 100 but peaked between number 41 and number 100. This time around it's six tracks from 1989, including brothers covering brothers, an icon in her adult contemporary era, more hair metal than you can shake a can of aqua net at, and... Dion. Yes, Dion is back.
Pop open an Orangina and listen!
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Join Kari, Joe and special guest Dom (aka DC Sheehan) to explore the full range of novelty songs of the 80s. There's one that hit the top 40, one by the king of novelty pop himself, one that went all the way to NUMBER ONE in the UK (and number two in New Zealand, but don't blame Dom, he didn't buy it), and two "rap" "songs" that... defy any and all explanation.
Then get ready to be introduced to the beautiful voice (and commanding stage presence) of Margaret Urlich, a New Zealand singer who was a multi-award winner with both a group and as a solo artist, made chart history as the decade ended and actually did the impossible (got Kari to appreciate a cover of Don't Dream It's Over).
All that, plus live clips from some favorite 80s acts at the recent Radio 2 in the Park festival in the UK and the shocking confession from Joe that he, in fact, is aware of horses as a species.
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Kari and Joe don't want to work, they just want to bang on the vibraslap all day, so... we did. Well, we talked about songs that used vibraslap for about 50 minutes, same difference. Join us for the fun!
That vibraslap is so versatile everyone from yacht rocker Ali Thomson to rock rockers Pat Travers Band (covering a reggae classic, don't ask) to R&B legends The S.O.S. Band to sophistipoppers Simply Red can make great use of it. Hear songs from those folks and more, plus tidbits about The Boss, a total wanker, and Axl Rose wilding out at Bungalow 8. If that doesn't make you smash the download button, I don't know what will.
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come on inside. Join Joe and Kari (with a soundtrack programmed by friend of the podcast Dom) as they take a road trip through the many songs of the 80s titled with roads (and some related tracks as well). We're visiting that cheating jerk Leo Sayer down on Orchard Road, stopping for a couple rounds at the Double Deuce and hitting a Roadblock with Stock Aitken Waterman.
Grab a fountain soda, your favorite snack, buckle up and let's go!
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No, the title doesn't make any sense, deal with it. Kari and Joe are taking you just a bit outside (JaBO) the top 40 once again, talking about Hot 100 singles from acts as varied as Ray, Goodman and Brown to Pink Floyd to Paul Shaffer with The Fresh Prince and every dude who sang in a doo wop group in the 50s. Yea, for real, you gotta hear it to believe it.
Kari also dishes on some recent music documentaries she's been watching and The Captain & Tennille cause Joe to have an existential breakdown. Same old same old here at HRT80s, with a special guest appearance this week by the baddest chick on the block, Miss Eggy.
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Kari and Joe are back with a bunch of capital R capital A capital N capital D capital O capital M tidbits and then a recap of their latest concert, a triple bill of Christopher Cross/Men at Work/Toto.
And while we're on the subject of Toto, let's talk about a Rob Lowe anecdote straight out of Boogie Nights and then FINALLY get to the bottom of just how many ladies Toto has... written songs about.
Just close your eyes, tap your heels together three times and hit that download button.
PRODUCTION NOTE: the editing platform we use was being a real Misfit this week, so please excuse that this sounds even rougher than usual.
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Hope you all have been having a great summer so far! Joe and Kari certainly have, and you are about to hear what they've been up to! It's been a while since the last episode, but they are back with a super-sized episode to recap most of what's been going on. Kari made a trip to STL for a few concerts, as did friend of the podcast Michael, who is also a special guest on this episode! You'll hear all about concerts from Simple Minds (along with Modern English and Soft Cell) and Peter Hook and the Light (of Joy Division and New Order). Find out what records were purchased from Vintage Vinyl, and there's even a QUIZ about R&B Songs of the 80's. Tune in and play along!
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Are you hungry like the wolf for some discussion of all the singles of Duran Duran? Well, there is something you should know... the wild boys (Joe, Kari and special guest Chad) are doing just that this week on Hey, Remember the 80s! That's right, we ranked all 20 of the Fab Five's singles released in the 80s and I can't fit any more title puns in this description.
Just join us for a supersized deep dive into everything from Planet Earth to Burning the Ground. Will your fave be at the top? Will Joe and Kari's friendship survive? Will Chad and Joe manage to stay in their seats for the whole recording? Will anyone give a damn for a flaky bandit? Tune in to find out.
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Ooh, go on an adventure with Joe and Kari through some truly random and truly outrageous 80s hits. You'll hear it all! Bisexual overtones, camp clamor on the dance floor, Joe Strummer hurling a wrecking ball through the Grand Ole Opry, Gladys sending up an SOS and more!
All that, plus the debut of a brand new segment, glamour and glitter, fashion and fame. Whoa, Hey Remember the 80s, the music's contagious...
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Join Kari and Joe for a journey through the March 16, 1985 issue of Billboard. You opera fans who've been waiting 272 episodes for a mention of Madame Butterfly are in luck! Then, get ready to hear about wild 80s personalities like Doctor G and Lee Abrams, before partying out of bounds with WLIR and getting an invitation to dance with a chart triple threat.
We're also going just a bit outside with entries from Welsh rockers that would later become electronic superstars, California bros who were still cruisin well past their curfew, and a teen star that wanted to grow up fast.
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Episode 271: Joe and Kari are back with an episode that is chock full of delicious tidbits, so strap on the ol' feedbag and tune in! You'll hear about some exciting news that's taken place in the past few weeks (new, unreleased music from Bruce Springsteen, new recordings from Susanna Hoffs, etc). Plus you'll hear about Joe's recent concert experience, and all of Kari's thoughts on the recent 80's Cruise. We're so happy to be back, hope you enjoy the loose format of this week's episode!
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Episode 270: Joe and Kari are back and they brought plenty of tidbits to share with you this week, from the stage to the screen to the sea! Then buckle up for Just a Bit Outside, your look at songs that hit the Hot 100 but NOT the Top 40 -- a surprisingly large amount of great songs for this round. You'll hear from chart mainstays like Little River Band and Eddie Rabbitt, plus acts like The Babys, Vesta, and Kon Kan.
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Join Kari and Joe this week for another celebration of Black History Month. First, in tidbits, Kari gives a short report on the Luther Vandross documentary and you may be surprised where he got his start.
Then, it's a vastly underrated group of ladies led by JoJo McDuffie, an old school artist who started spilling the tea in her songs in the 80s, a legend that Kari and Joe should know more about, and a former Holy Ghost Boy who we pray does not hurt us.
Tune in for that plus a dramatic monologue by Joe and an homage to MTV's Party to Go!
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Kari and Joe kick off this episode with tidbits about Tina Turner, Record Store Day, more on the SNL music documentary and interesting news about a Prince documentary that was previously announced.
Then, February is Black History Month and that means more R&B Superstars. We've made it into the Ms! Get ready to hear about a jazz fusion group that contains some familiar members... think positive with a superstar trio... dive into the world of Brazilian telenovelas... and hear from a (very talented) nepo baby.
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Join Kari and Joe this week to talk the music of Saturday Night Live in tidbits, along with some very important concert announcements.
Then they dive back into Dave Kinzer's "The 80s Music Compendium" to cover a couple piano solos, an organ solo, a guitar solo, a harmonica solo and a saxophone solo. Whew.
Get ready to hear about the Boogie Nights-ish backstory of the band Great White, a heartwarming story involving fortified wine, and possibly the worst cover of the 80s decade??
Personnel Credits
Hosted by: Joe, Kari
Hair by: Dove and Love, Beauty, Planet
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Hello friends, Kari and Joe are back with a tidbit check-in on all those 80s music documentaries you've been waiting for!
Then, they get into Volume 1 of Richard Blade's Flashback Favorites, the iconic DJ's compilation series that was intended to be all good songs, no filler. Did he succeed? Do you recognize the songs and bands he chose? Do the words "quick, slow, quick, quick, slow" mean anything to you?
Also, it's a special edition of Just a Bit Outside dedicated to the source of the quote himself, the one and only Bob Uecker.
All this, plus an attempted kidnapping, an urban legend about John Lennon and a trip to the beach!
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Happy New Year to our loyal listeners. Joe and Kari are back with a new episode. They are here to finish up the Billboard list of the 100 Best Pop Songs That Didn't Hit the Hot 100. Some of your 80's shoegaze faves are here: The Cure, Depeche Mode, The Smiths. Thank goodness there are some more upbeat songs as well, courtesy of Frankie Beverly and Maze, and the act that appears in the number one spot on the list. Go ahead and click play -- for inspiration!
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Let's say goodbye to 2024 with episode 264. In Tidbits, Kari will beg you to watch a new Netflix special and give an abbreviated report of Phil Collins: Drummer First. Then, Kari and Joe are flipping last week and bringing you Billboard Top 100 Pop Songs that didn't hit the Hot 100 first and Just a Bit Outside second. You'll have to decide who you believe about an infamous lyric of the 80s... Sheila E. or your own ears. Then, it's a legend that never got his due in the US, at least during his lifetime. In JaBO, it's an icon, a backing band and an R&B star from the end of the decade that couldn't make his success last.
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Episode 263 is here just in time for Christmas! Wouldn't you think this would be a Christmas Episode? Not a chance -- as your friends Joe and Kari are still getting their bearings! You'll get a stocking full of Tidbits though, as your hosts remember more things that happened during the break! 1st Segment: Just a Bit Outside, a look at songs that charted but didn't break into the top 40. You'll hear Joe fumble the title of one of the most famous songs in the history of recorded music (sorry, Al Green), while a hard rock band conjures up movie quotes in the brain of Kari. // Billboards Top 100 Pop Songs that didn't hit the Hot 100 - yes, we are still looking through this list and picking out the 80's gems. This episode finds a re-recorded rock classic, and a trailblazing hip-hop remix.
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There are no words to describe the loss of producer David, but Kari gives it a try.
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Episode 260: Joe and Kari are going back to July 17, 1982, to peruse an issue of Billboard magazine (Thank you, Monty Greeley). You'll hear about articles and ads featuring Jimmy Spicer and The B.B. & Q Band, and some more familiar names like Carly Simon and Robert Plant. Kari's happy to discuss Bonnie Hayes, and Joe always gets a thrill talking about a Mandrell sister (Barbara, this time).
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Episode 259: Happy Pride Month, all! Joe and Kari have a great episode this week inspired by an idea from friend of the podcast Dom! Prepare to build a rainbow using 80's songs and bands that use colors in their names: "Orange Crush" by REM, "Red Light" by Linda Clifford, the Moody Blues, you get the picture! So many fun songs in this one, plus some juicy tidbits, this episode's got it all!!
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Episode 258: First up in Tidbits, a little update about the other 80's movies that Joe and Kari watched during their time together. First segment: revisiting the Billboard list of the 100 Best Pop Songs that didn't reach the Hot 100. Joe and Kari discuss entries from Grace Jones, Duran Duran, Violent Femmes, Kate Bush, and NWA.
The next segment was teased a bit ago: Trash Or Treasure? Up for debate is Ray Parker Jr's 80's Output Minus Ghostbusters.
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Episode 257: We're back! Joe and Kari were actually in the same room for the new episode of HRT80s! They had a LOT to catch up on for Tidbits, including their review of the Cyndi Lauper documentary, so make sure you've watched it before you listen (or just skip to 20:49).
The main segment is all about Joe's recent record store finds from a trip to STL's biggest record store Record Exchange. You'll hear about Sheena Easton, The Del Fuegos, the Models, and (one of friend of the podcast Dom's favorite artists) Lulu!
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Episode 256: Great news, everyone! The dust has settled on last week's tiff. Joe and Kari (and their agents) have worked out an agreement to get the two back in the studio. It's time to get back into the music of Moonlighting. How accurate is Showrunner Glenn Gordon's Caron claim that they were able to retain the vast majority of the music used in the show's original run? One thing is certain, they songs performed by Cybill Shepherd and Bruce Willis on the show remain intact. Some other songs that were kept include hits from Pet Shop Boys and Alisha. Come walk by night!
Episode 255: After multiple delays, the Moonlighting episode is finally here! Much like the iconic television series itself, this episode of HRT80s has been plagued by delays, behind the scenes tension, and inflated egos. But one thing is for sure, you will hear all about the legendary theme song by Al Jarreau (and its many iterations), as well as the Jarreau song that was meant to be the theme song long before audiences were asked to "Come walk by night". Showrunner Glenn Gordon Caron has said in interviews that he did his best to keep the original music intact as the show made its long-awaited return to tv screens via Hulu. Joe and Kari are here to discuss just how well Mr. Caron pulled it off. So slam the door to ensure peace and quiet while you listen to episode 255!
Episode 254: It's time for Part Two of our look at the British Top 30, innit? You may remember that in Episode 249, Joe and Kari discussed one of Kari's recent record store finds: The British Top 30 from June 23, 1985, brought to you by Dave Eastwood and Radio Luxembourg. They are picking it up at number 15, a song by Gary Moore, and will discuss songs from Loose Ends, Freddy Mercury, the Style Council, and others on the way to the number one song! Don't be cheeky, tune in now!!!
Episode 253: Joe and Kari posed a question to the listeners of HRT80s a bit ago -- what's your favorite obscure soundtrack song? They received so many great suggestions that they couldn't all be used in one episode, so this week's episode is a continuation. You'll hear about songs from movies like Teachers, Dirty Dancing, and Trick or Treat, and artists like 38 Special, Joe Cocker, and Hot Date! Finally, summer may be just around the corner, but Henry Lee Summer discussion begins right now, in the segment Coming Around Again.
Your hosts are back after celebrating their milestone event with a whole slew of tidbits. They have something for everyone: documentary news, musical news, Rock Hall inductees, and Joe give his mini report of on Record Store Day.
Then it’s time for the main event: Attack of the Killer B-Sides! Not bees, although those were a thing back in the 80’s. Friend of the Podcast Dom suggested Joe and Kari turn over some iconic 7 inch singles to see what potential hidden gems were lurking on the flip side.
Episode 250 (Part 2) (Taylor's Version) is here! The celebration continues, but Joe and Kari had to record a bit of new stuff to cover some pressing tidbits. And then it's BACK to Just a Bit Outside to cover more of those songs that didn't hit the Top 40. Then friend of the podcast Michael plays Quizmaster to finish out the ongoing quiz series. Find out who will emerge victorious!!!
Finally, find out which 80's icon sends a congratulatory message to Joe and Kari on account of the 250th episode!
Episode 250 is here! Join Joe and Kari for Part One of the milestone episode. They welcome friend of the podcast Michael to the show for a supersized Just a Bit Outside segment, for a look at those songs that hit the Hot 100, but didn't make it to the famed Top 40. You'll hear about songs from Shooting Star, Guy, Grace Slick and the B-52s, among others. Episode 250 is so big, it had to be split into 2 episodes! Stay tuned for the finale next week with some big surprises!
Episode 249: This episode is inspired by Kari's trip to the record store, where she uncovered a set called "The British Top 30 Show." The countdown is from June 16, 1985, but is it based on the official UK Charts? Definitely not, but the jury is still out on where these rankings really came from. What can be confirmed is that you'll hear discussion about songs from Stephen "Tin Tin" Duffy, Skipworth and Turner, U2 and others.
More on our ongoing quiz series, but this time with a voice you may have not heard before! Find out if Joe can catch up to Kari before the final round!!
Episode 248: Let's go back in time to March 26, 1983! That's the date on the issue of Billboard magazine that Joe and Kari have chosen to peruse (and you can do the same at www.worldradiohistory.com). Let's take a look at some of the ink splashed for artists like Simple Minds, The Bar-Kays, and Ultravox. You'll also hear about The First Video Games Conference, and an interesting ad taken out to get the attention of a famous singer. Also making the pages of the issue are Jules Shear, The Brains, and you know it wouldn't be an episode of HRT80s without a mention of at least one Mandrell sister!
Episode 247: Multiple tidbits this week, including the lineup for the 2025 80’s Cruise, and a tribute to Eric Carmen.
You Don’t Have to Yell! Did you ever notice that multiple 80’s song titles include exclamation points in them? What’s the deal with that?? Joe and Kari take a look at some songs from Scritti Politti, Donnie Iris, Thompson Twins, and others that beg the listener to SCREAM the song title in excitement. But did these songs EARN the right to use those exclamation points? That’s what’s up for debate in this episode!
Could’ve Been: In this segment, Joe and Kari each swap out a song from the top 20 for a song in the bottom 20. Stray Cats and Styx take a hike to make room for a southern rock band and a surprisingly Yacht Rock singer.
Episode 246: Obscure Soundtrack Songs. Joe and Kari asked for suggestions on the FB page (follow it, if you aren't already!) They got some great recommendations from Bill G., David N. and Kindra K., including songs from Streets of Fire, Pretty in Pink and The Lost Boys, which actually has a ton of great songs! You'll hear about contributions from Suzanne Vega, Fire, Inc., and Lou Gramm. You'll also hear the next round of the ongoing QUIZ series between Joe and Kari. Find out who comes out on top!
Episode 245: Grab your party hats and noisemakers, it's time to celebrate some birthdays for some of your favorite musicians of the 80's! Cindy Wilson of the B-52s, Neal Schon of Journey (and numerous other bands), Robyn Hitchcock, and Tone Loc are all Pisces. Find out more about these acts and others in this week's episode of HRT80s
Episode 244: It's time to consult The 80's Music Compendium for another list of songs with the longest piano solos. It's not that surprising to find songs from Elton John, Stevie Wonder, and Carole King. But Sheena Easton and Heart, what are you doing here? Segment two is another round of the ongoing quiz series, with accompaniment by a special guest! Find out if Joe is ever going to take the lead away from Kari!
Episode 243: Lots of Odds and Ends to discuss this week, so we've got a super-sized Tidbit section for you all! Even though Kari did her best to ignore it, the Rock Hall nominees for 2024 need to be discussed. Who got snubbed? Who was deserving? More tidbits come courtesy of Michael H. and Blair (thanks for the suggestions). You'll hear discussions about Guns N' Roses, Bruce Hornsby, and Rick Astley.
Just a Bit Outside: Songs that didn't hit the top 40 from Leif Garrett and Steve Forbert. Guess which artist Joe and Kari DON'T like?
Finally, more of the ongoing quiz series. Find out if Joe will ever catch up to Kari!!
Episode 242: So many tidbits! You won't even believe it, and Joe and Kari left out a big one (to be discussed at a later date, maybe!!). Main topic: R&B Superstars, including some musicians with a ton of R&B hits (and not just in the 80's), like Chaka Khan and Gladys Knight and the Pips. You'll also hear about Evelyn "Champagne" King and Cheryl Lynn (who is currently enjoying a resurgence on the charts). Plus, find out the history behind "My Toot Toot"
Episode 241: This segment idea comes courtesy of friend of the podcast, Dom. Way back in episode 5, we discussed some actors who were "moonlighting" as pop singers, so why not focus on some actresses who tried it as well? We start off with some actors associated with the classic show The Facts of Life: Lisa Welchel, Kim Fields and Gloria Loring, who sang the famous theme song (talk about "you take the good, you take the bad..."). You'll also hear about songs from Audrey Landers, Princess Stephanie, and Alyssa Milano (she's big in Japan).
Episode 240: Time for part two of our series highlighting the Best Pop Songs NEVER to Hit the Hot 100, according to Billboard Magazine. Why did great songs from Change, Tears for Fears, Womack and Womack, Bruce Springsteen and others NOT hit the Hot 100? Billboard has their reasons, which are myriad (Heathers reference, nailed it). Then it's time for the next part of the ongoing QUIZ series, find out if Joe finally catches up to Kari!
Episode 239: Order in the court! HRT80s Court is in session, and Joe and Kari object... to artists ripping off other artists. Of course, they try to be fair and hear both sides, so you can also decide if the audio evidence is enough to convict. This week's docket includes Kid Creole and the Coconuts v. Bananarama, and Ollie & Jerry v. Dan Hartman. There's a third case as well, but that's a secret!!
O' Canada: more songs from the CBC's list of the 50 Best Canadian Songs of the 80's, including a tune by Images in Vogue, and one that was perhaps made more famous by Mr. Eddie Vedder.
Episode 238: It's time to go "Just a Bit Outside" to check out some singles that hit the Hot 100 but DIDN'T make the Top 40. This week, we'll hear singles from Neil Diamond and Jennifer Warnes, and a couple from the Great White North from Red Rider and Anne Murray. It's not all Adult Contemporary, though! The singles from 1989 are from acts like Love and Rockets and Debbie Gibson.
Buckle up, there's a new Quiz in town! Find out if Joe can pull off another upset in this new series of quizzes.
Episode 237: Happy New Year, folks! Joe and Kari are starting off 2024 with a bang! They've chosen their Top Five Number One singles of the 80's and discuss each one's merits. They also discuss live versions, demos, or remixes. Get ready for chatter about Genesis, Janet Jackson, Bruce Hornsby & The Range, Cyndi Lauper, and more! Find out if any of your faves made this totally subjective list!
It’s a very special episode of HRT80s and it’s dropping right smack dab in the middle of the busy holiday season. As we get ready for a new year, let’s take a look at some songs that hit the Hot 100 at the end of 1989. Some of these are definitely considered more “90’s” but since they debuted in 1989, they are fair game for HRT80s! Friend of the Podcast Chad joins Joe and Kari to discuss some of the songs that were On The Brink of the 90’s, including songs from Gloria Estefan, Technotronic, and Aerosmith! Grab your party hats and noisemakers and join in on the fun!
Episode 235: Time for a trip back through time, to August 27, 1983 to be exact. That's the date on the front of the issue of Billboard that Joe procured at the antique mall, but you can follow along at worldradiohistory.com if you like. This episode is a review of the ads and articles from the issue, like ads for Louise Mandrell's scorching new album Too Hot To Sleep! There's also a lot of ink devoted to the rise of that new invention the CD! Singles from Will Powers, Tom Tom Club, Two Sisters and Debra (sorry, that's Zebra) are among those reviewed by Joe and Kari.
Episode 234: It's time for another Grab Bag episode -- Joe and Kari are taking listener suggestions (as well as their own suggestions to each other) to discuss some songs that just didn't fit into any other episodes. Thanks to listener Wes for his suggestion on Contemporary Christian artists in the 80's. Steve Taylor and The 77s had some very interesting songs, thank G**! And Joe and Kari also discuss a couple of forgotten gems that deserve a listen from Starpoint and The Look
Just a Bit Outside: Two more songs that hit the Hot 100 (but did not earn a spot in the coveted Top 40) -- this time the singles are from 2 very different rock bands, The Knack and Winger. Did they deserve to chart higher?
Episode 233: Think back to Episode 229 from a few weeks ago, when Joe and Kari discussed in Tidbits the list of the 500 Best Pop Songs from Billboard. If you remember, part of the criteria included that the song HAD to chart on the Hot 100 to qualify. Well, the people at Billboard put together ANOTHER list of the 100 Best Pop songs NOT to hit the Hot 100, and that's what is being discussed in this week's episode! You'll hear about pop non-hits from Miquel Brown, Taena Gardner, Bonnie Raitt, Randy Newman and others! Did they deserve to make the list?
Episode 232: Yes, Joe and Kari attended the Darker Waves Festival, and they lived to tell the tale! On the podcast! Their review kicks off this episode, find out what they liked (OMD! English Beat!) and what they didn't like (Lines! People! Paying for beer!).
Since World AIDS Day is December 1st, Joe and Kari are taking a look at some of the artists who tried to use their music to bring awareness to this serious topic, like Cyndi Lauper, Jimmy Somerville of Bronski Beat, and Book of Love.
Episode 231: If you haven't heard Joe and Kari discuss this in previous episodes, they are traveling to Huntington Beach, CA this week to attend the Darker Waves Festival! The lineup is STACKED with artists that have been discussed on HRT80s many times, but this episode is dedicated to some of the lesser-known bands like The Chameleons and Clan of Xymox, as well as faves like The English Beat, OMD and X! You'll feel like you're at a music festival when you listen to this one, and the beers won't be 18 dollars each!
Episode 230: This week's episode is a very special one, as Joe and Kari welcome their first international guest to the podcast: Listener Dom from New Zealand! Dom has been kind enough to suggest some of the segments that we've brought to you on HRT80s, and this week, we get to know the man behind the ideas, and what exactly he loves about music from the 1980s.
Then we invite Dom to discuss one of his segment ideas: Not the Song You're Thinking Of, which takes a look at songs that have the same title as huge hits of the 80s, like "Freedom", "I'm Your Man", "Trouble" and "The Power of Love". You don't want to miss this episode!
Episode 229: Spooky Halloween Edition! Since this episode drops on Halloween, Joe and Kari took some listener suggestions on their favorite creepy songs of the 80's. Toto Coelo sang a love song about Dracula, Whodini warned us that the freaks come out at night, and Ministry gave us a goth anthem with "Everyday is Halloween."
Finally, the Great 80's Music Quiz comes to an end with the final rounds. Find out who wins the sack of full-size candy bars, and who comes home with a bag full of those weird peanut butter chews in the orange and black wrappers (you know the ones, they're nasty).
Episode 228: As promised, here is Part Two of the recap of the Countdown America program from February 18, 1989. Dick Clark hosted this syndicated radio program that used the Top 30 Adult Contemporary charts from Radio and Records magazine. In the upper reaches of the countdown, we have songs from Vanessa Williams, Anita Baker and Barbra Streisand. Plus, Debbie Gibson and Tiffany face off with ballads from their sophomore albums. Which song was more successful on the charts (and in our hearts)? And who was the more successful solo member of the Eagles -- Glenn Frey or Don Henley? You'll find the answers in this episode, as well as the song that took the number one spot!
Episode 227: This episode is only for the Jackée stans!!! That's right: HRT80s is celebrating 227 episodes this week! And we asked the listeners to tell us their favorite TV Theme Songs for us to cover on the podcast. So get ready to hear about the theme songs to your favorite 80's shows: Perfect Strangers, Cheers, 227 (natch), and everyone's favorite, Golden Girls.
Then it's time for more QUIZZING; who ends up in the lead after this round? You better listen and find out, because there's no place like HRT80s. I MEAN NO PLACE, CHILD WOO!
Episode 226: Please welcome to the podcast: Michael! He's joining the panel for HRT80s court, that segment that takes a look at some similar-sounding songs and asks, Who is at fault for this? Why does "Running Back to You" by Vanessa Williams sound a bit like "Right on Track" by the Breakfast Club? Does Bananarama owe some money to Company B? And why exactly was New Line Pictures up in arms about the harmless DJ Jazzy Jeff and The Fresh Prince Freddy Krueger song?
Once the verdicts are in, it's time for Michael to QUIZ Kari and Joe on some Just a Bit Outside R&B singles. Find out who wins the bragging rights on this episode of HRT80s!
Episode 225: Sometimes the tidbits are plentiful. This week, Joe and Kari discuss (deep breath): Cyndi Lauper's new musical, news of a Debbie Gibson memoir, Moonlighting comes to streaming finally, Pat Benatar's daughters new single, and news of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony. PLUS, Joe's mini-review of the Squeeze/Psychedelic Furs show. WHEW
Main Topic: Suggested by listener Dom, Joe and Kari take a look at some of the biggest and best hits of the 80's to come out of New Zealand. Of course, the Finn brothers are represented, as well as singles from Shona Laing, Patea Maori Club, and Satellite Spies.
Episode 224: Joe and Kari had so much fun dissecting the National Music Survey in episode 214 that....well, they fell down the rabbit hole. One eBay purchase later, they're now the owner of several old 80's countdowns on vinyl. This week's episode takes a look at Countdown America from the week of February 18, 1989. It's the top 30 AC hits based on Radio and Records, hosted by the one and only Dick Clark! They discuss some of the singles from Carly Simon, Boy Meets Girl, Edie Brickell and New Bohemians, Chicago, and others! There's also a spotlight on Kenny G, but don't let that stop you from checking out the episode!
Episode 223: This week's episode is a grab bag, odds and ends that Joe and Kari have collected over the past few weeks due to Instagram stories, Apple Music playlists, and suggestions from Loyal Listeners. First up is a gem from Tina Yothers (!), yes she attempted a pop music takeover, but was she successful? Up next are a couple of rap songs from the mid-80's that have ties to Sly Fox. Also, Stacey Q was putting out music before "Two of Hearts" made it big on the charts. Finally, an 80's music oddity that popped up recently in the Sex and the City reboot.
The quizzing continues as well. Does Joe keep his lead against Kari after the most recent round?
Episode 221: This episode is inspired by another recent Kari find at the record store (she is on a roll!) -- have you heard of the Secret Policeman's Ball? It's okay if you haven't because it's a secret! The UK fundraiser for Amnesty International dates back to 1976, but the 1987 event put a focus on music, and featured performances from Kate Bush, Joan Armatrading, Duran Duran, and Bob Geldof, among others. Joe and Kari discuss those performances, as well as those from Erasure, Nik Kershaw and Mark Knopfler.
Finally, the QUIZ continues -- find out who ends up on top after the next round!!
Episode 220: First of all, we want to thank listener Giovanni for suggesting some songs to discuss during our episode devoted to Italo Disco! Synthesizer-heavy songs from Gazebo, Milva, and Via Verdi are discussed. The true star of the episode is the song (and video) "Future Brain" by Den Harrow (OR IS IT???)
Quiz: Joe gets quizzed again in this ongoing series, find out if he bests Kari when all is said and done!
Episode 219: Joe and Kari are back from their break in a big way, the two were able to record an episode in the same room, an HRT80s Rarity! Kari starts off Tidbits with a review of the I Want My 80's Tour that is currently snaking around the USA.
Just a Bit Outside: Time to highlight those non-top 40 singles, including a divisive (for multiple reasons) single from Styx. Other singles from RCR, Peter McIan, Giant and The Cult get the JaBO treatment, plus a special song from a MySteRy ArTisT
HRT80s Court is in session: What is the deal with "Rock Steady" and the Kylie Minogue song "Look My Way?" Who copied whom? Everybody's steady rockin' in this episode of HRT80s!
Episode 218: Kari and Joe want to dress you up in their love... ew, not like that. Working with a suggestion from amazing listener Dom, we have put together an 80s outfit using the titles of songs. Get out your Wigs, Favourite Shirts and Goody Two Shoes and listen along.
Quiz Time: Kari continues quizzing Joe with some (pretty easy) questions about 80s music to determine who is the Queen of 80s Trivia, but it gets heated. (Joe calls Kari a B! Can you believe it??)
Episode 217: Jitterbug! Hot on the heels of the new Wham! documentary that is streaming on Netflix, Joe and Kari have ranked Wham's 12 singles. Which Wham! songs reached the upper echelon aka The Edge of Heaven? Listen to the latest ep and find out! Jitterbug!
Quiz Time: Kari unearthed some 80's questions in a new series that may prove once and for all who is the Queen of 80's Music Trivia!
Episode 216: Long guitar solos and long beards, that's what this episode is all about! Of course, ZZ Top starts things off. What Joe wants to know is this -- if you tell someone "Give me all your lovin'" are the hugs and kisses implied? Or should they be specifically requested as well? Other guitar solos discussed include the usual suspects -- hard rockin' acts like White Lion, Britney Fox, and Paul McCartney?
O' Canada: More songs from the CBC's list of the 50 Best Canadian Songs of the 80's, including a song that makes fun of America (we think??) and some pre-Lilith Fair Sarah McLachlan.
Episode 215: First up in Tidbits -- Joe and Kari's thought on the new Wham! documentary that is streaming on Netflix, so make sure you've watched it before listening (the doc is highly recommended!).
Obscure Soundtrack Songs: If you've never heard of the movie Party Party, it's okay because Joe and Kari had never heard of it until they each located a copy of the soundtrack in different record stores. Songs from Altered Images and Modern Romance are discussed. Next up is Fatal Beauty, a movie that Joe watched quite a bit as a child, for some reason? Music from Shannon, The System, and (most importantly) Madame X is highlighted.
Could've Been So Beautiful: The segment that swaps out overrated top 20 hits for lesser known "hits" makes a return to HRT80s. Find out which frenetic songs are swapped out for songs that deserved so much more.
Episode 214: Does anyone know of the syndicated countdown special from the late 80's called National Music Survey? It's okay, Joe didn't know about it either until one magical day at the record store when he came across a copy of the countdown from January 20, 1988! This episode is a recap of the countdown -- the top 25 Adult Contemporary songs, ranked by Radio and Records. You'll hear about AC hits from Dave Mason and Phoebe Snow, Manhattan Transfer, and Donna Summer, among others. Plus the countdown features highlights from the career of one Mr. Al Jarreau! You won't want to miss this one!
Episode 213: Happy 4th of July, from Kari and Joe! Enjoy this rundown of songs that peaked at number 74 on the Hot 100 (get it?). Max Werner, The Call, and Heaven 17 are a few of the acts discussed, as well as a singer that had a huge hit down under!
Just A Bit Outside: Songs that didn't hit the Top 40 include songs from superstar Dionne Warwick, and freestyle legend Stevie B.
Episode 212: This is a very special episode, folks, because Joe and Kari are welcoming a very special guest to the podcast: Chad! Chad is a friend of the podcast and a loyal listener since day one. He was very excited to discuss something very near and dear to his heart as a father and husband: mowing the lawn! Chad's got the perfect playlist for anyone out there who has a difficult task ahead of them, and he discusses with Joe and Kari some of the songs he chose. It's a very varied playlist so get ready for discussion about acts like Joan Jett, Duran Duran, Salt N Pepa, Mötley Crüe and Keith Sweat.
Links to the playlist:
On Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/5tbIn56sDIQjf2Bj0K8d82?si=sN1eKGIEQPy51gd71dnCRw
On Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/playlist/lets-mow-all-the-way/pl.u-ArPpTE4bma
Episode 211: Let's take it back, y'all! We are going back to June 13, 1981, and perusing the pages of Billboard magazine. There's an ad for an up-and-coming singer named John Schneider, who was wowing audiences on the show The Dukes of Hazzard. Does this good ol' boy have what it takes to conquer the Hot 100? More ink is spilled for acts like Frankie Beverly and Maze, Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers, and Gang of Four. Joe and Kari discuss the songs behind the ads and articles!
Episode 210: The weather is getting hotter, and that can mean only one thing -- Global Warming! Just kidding -- Joe and Kari rounded up some of the best 80's songs about everyone's favorite season, Summer! Songs from APB, Diesel, James Taylor, and Don Henley are gonna make you SWEAT!
That's What Friends Are For: A look back at 1980 when Elvis Costello needed some assistance with a vocal, and he called on his friends from the band Squeeze!
Episode 209: Happy National Jennifer Day! Joe and Kari are here to make sure you celebrate responsibly. The plan was to discuss multiple Jennifer's of the 80's, but the research on singer Jennifer Warnes proved much more fruitful than expected. She is most well known for songs from the soundtracks to An Officer and a Gentleman and Dirty Dancing, but there is so much more! This deep dive includes a few detours to discuss songs from non-Jennifers as well.
Episode 208: It's time for a super-sized edition of Just A Bit Outside, the segment that looks at songs that peaked outside the Top 40. From 1980, we've got R&B from the Bar-Kays, Southern (Scottish) Rock from Nazareth, a Country single from Mac Davis, and whatever genre Korona fits into. 1989 brings songs from Regina Belle and Icehouse, who had quite a few underrated songs throughout the whole decade.
O, Canada: More songs from the CBC list of the Best Canadian Songs of the 80's, including tunes from Strange Advance and Chilliwack offshoot The Headpins.
Episode 207: Joe and Kari are always thrilled to get listener suggestions! First, from Matt B., a look at an act that started out in 1982, Everything But the Girl. True, they are probably best known for their hit from the 90's, but their 80's output is definitely worth checking out. Then, listener Alex suggested a few songs from Minor Detail and Polyrock. And finally, Blair's suggestion becomes a segment called Could've Been So Beautiful: a look at some big hits from 1989 that maybe were TOO big, and a couple of lesser known hits from the same chart that should've charted much higher. Thanks for all the suggestions, and keep 'em coming!
Episode 206: First in Tidbits -- surely you've heard the news about the inductees for this year's class of Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, and now Joe and Kari offer their two cents on who got snubbed.
Kari's Record Store Haul: A trip to MadCity Music in Madison, WI proved fruitful for Kari. In this episode, we take a look and some of the finds of the day. Albums from The Pretenders, Roachford, Wang Chung and others are discussed, along with some of the pivotal tracks from each. Also included, albums from a couple of Joe and Kari's absolute favorites of the decade: Eurythmics and Split Enz.
Episode 205: The Sax is Back! Thanks to The 80's Music Compendium,Joe and Kari have a new batch of 80's songs to discuss that include long sax solos. Bobby Womack and Patti LaBelle joined forces to climb the R&B chart in 1984, and Dan Fogelberg took some inspiration from a trippy Tom Robbins novel to create a number one hit on the AC chart. You'll also hear about sax solos from songs by The Mary Jane Girls, The Honeydrippers, and a duet between David Bowie and Tina Turner!
Finally, a long-overdue feature on songs that use that classic instrument the Vibraslap.
Episode 204: First up in Tidbits, a recap of Joe and Kari's trip to Minneapolis to celebrate the 22nd anniversary of Transmission! So much great music and dancing!
Then it's time for a new segment: It Peaked on This Day, a look at songs that peaked on April 25th. In 1981, songs by Steely Dan, The Outlaws, and Fantasy reached their peaks on the Hot 100. In 1987, songs from Peter Gabriel, Prince, and Robbie Nevil reached their peaks. Which songs do Joe and Kari want to add to their playlists? Tune in and find out!
Episode 203: Grab some punch and a piece of cake because we are celebrating BIRTHDAYS this week on HRT80s. No, not Joe or Kari's birthdays, but rather the birthdays of some notable musicians, including Iggy Pop, Paul Carrack, Jack Blades of Night Ranger, and The Triplets! Then it's time to discuss a truly bizarre (and awesome) song and video from a band that was founded by the one and only Bill Paxton!
Episode 202: Batter up! Baseball season has begun, and notorious sports fans Joe and Kari are talking about those hits of the 80's that are about America's favorite pastime, including songs by John Fogerty and Bruce Springsteen. And UK act The Outfield was seemingly named after a love of the game, but the ref calls foul! Baseball terms!
Just a Bit Outside: Songs that peaked outside of the Top 40 include tunes from Off Broadway, Jaya, and the Jets. Did they deserve to be bigger? You make the call.
Episode 201: Joe and Kari are preparing for a trek to Minneapolis, so it's time to bone up on some acts that originated in the area. Of course, Prince is the most famous of the bunch, and he's been discussed many times on the podcast -- but that doesn't stop your hosts from talking about Prince-adjacent acts like Apollonia and Ta Mara and the Seen. On the rock side, you'll hear about The Suburbs, Hüsker Dü, and Trip Shakespeare.
HRT80s Court: Order in the court! Joe heard a synth squiggle that stopped him in his tracks. Did the Moody Blues influence dance diva Donna Allen? Or was it all a (gemini) dream? You'll hear evidence in this episode of HRT80s!
Sound the alarm, Episode 200 is here! Yup, Joe and Kari are in disbelief as well. It's been a long road to get to this point, but your hosts are hopefully up to the challenge to bring you a "Greatest Hits" episode. All your favorite segments are here: Coming Around Again, That's What Friends are For, and Just a Bit Outside. Plus, it's all led up to this moment: Joe and Kari QUIZ each other! Put on your party hat and join in the fun of this milestone episode!
Episode 199: Joe and Kari are back with more R&B Superstars! Even though they've already reached the letter K in the Joel Whitburn book, they had to turn back a few pages to highlight Regina Belle, since that name has popped up a few times in the podcast. Then it's time to shine a spotlight on Kool Moe Dee, Lakeside, and the one and only Patti LaBelle!
Canadian Singles: The CBC made a list of the best Canadian Songs of the 80's, and Joe and Kari are discussing a couple of songs by The Northern Pikes (cuties) and Michel Rivard.
Joe and Kari are taking a break for one week after this episode to plan something special for EPISODE 200! Stay tuned!
Episode 198: Time to flashback to March 11, 1989, with a look at the ads and articles from Billboard magazine (thank you, Monty Greenly). First up, an ad for a Boy George solo album that started out as an attempt to turn the former Culture Club frontman into a New Jack Swinger. Then, a report on the 1989 Grammy Awards -- which artists received the so-called Grammy Bump, and which new awards caused a bit of controversy? More articles and mentions included The Boys, Guadalcanal Diary, and a love song from the movie "Sing".
Episode 197: Say goodbye to the shortest month of the year with an episode about the shortest SONGS to hit the Hot 100. Joe and Kari discuss singles from The Georgia Satellites, Glen Campbell, Los Lobos, and Dave Edmunds, among others. And you'll find out which of the Vacation movies is the ONLY one Kari has ever seen. The answer may shock you.
Just a Bit Outside: Two non-top-40 singles are up for discussion. Should they have charted higher? Or was number 67 enough for Enuff Z'Nuff?
Episode 196: In honor of Fat Tuesday, this episode is all about PARTY songs from the 1980's! Whether you like to Party All the Time, or if you prefer just to have the occasional Party Weekend, Joe (mayor of Partytown) and Kari (World Dance Party Coordinator) have got the insider scoop on these Party classics. But the fun doesn't stop there! Kari gets QUIZZED on some of her most beloved 80's favorites. Grab a cold one and tune in, because this Bud (or episode, rather) is for you!
Episode 195: Happy Valentine's Day! Just to switch it up a bit, Joe and Kari are here to talk about some anti-Valentine's songs. Joan Jett and Alice Cooper got a couple top ten hits out of theirs, but there's also room for songs from Freddie Mercury, Joy Division and J. Geils Band that didn't chart quite so high.
Number 195: Looking at some songs ranked on a couple of 200 best songs of the 80's lists. Jungle Brothers and Bad Brains made the list. Are these songs better than a Russell Stover chocolate collection? Listen to episode 195 and find out for yourself!
Episode 194: Break out the champagne! It's time to celebrate 4 whole years of Hey! Remember the 80's! The ever-thoughtful Kari marked the occasion by noting that the traditional gift for 4th anniversaries is Flowers or Ripe Fruit. On the menu for Ep 194: Songs/Bands with flowers or fruits in the name, including the song "One Bad Apple", the Scottish due Strawberry Switchblade, and the Billy Joel song "Big Man on Mulberry Street"
Finally, more "4" fun: Joe and Kari each picked a song that peaked at number 4 on the Hot 100 in the 80's. Both picked R&B songs that you can dance to. Dial "4" for fun!
Episode 193: First up in Tidbits, a quick review of the recent Yacht Rock Doc "Sometimes When We Touch", now streaming on Paramount+. Joe gives it a Thumbs Up, and is now rethinking his stance on Ray Parker Jr.
Listener Mail Bag: Thank you to listeners Heidi, Peter and Giovanni for their suggestions. A couple of hits from Martha and the Muffins and Soda Stereo are highlighted, then a look into the soundtrack for the movie "Hiding Out". Finally, Joe and Kari inspect some hits from the German Charts.
Episode 192: Coming Around Again - the segment where we look at songs that charted twice! Duran Duran had a hit in the UK that went all the way to number 2 in 1982. So why did it take 3 years for the song to hit the US charts? NKOTB released an album before Hangin' Tough, but it didn't hit. So how did one of the flop singles become such a success in 1989? Ask Kari.
Just A Bit Outside: Joe and Kari look at some of these "JaBOs" to determine if some songs from 1980 deserved to hit the Top 40. Dottie West, The Captain and Tenille, and Debbie Jacobs are up for discussion, and the results may surprise you! That Dottie West song certainly surprised your hosts!
Episode 191: The stars have aligned, and Joe and Kari have now BOTH seen the new(ish) Whitney Houston movie, so get ready for a discussion in Tidbits.
The Main Event: Billboard Flashback 1/19/1985. (Feel free to follow along with the issue, you can find it at worldradiohistory.com). A front-page ad from RCA Records doesn't exactly inspire confidence, find out if their money was well-spent on NYC act The Nails. The Ramones were also hitting the pages of Billboard that week, as well as fellow rocker George Thorogood (too late to change the name to ThoroBAD?).
The Kinks, The Textones and the Egyptian Magician (ahem, Egyptian LOVER) are also mentioned in the mag. You don't need a coupon from your Uncle Freddy to enjoy this week's episode of HRT80s!
Episode 190: Did everyone remember Kari has a book about the R&B charts? We left off on the letter J, so get ready for discussion about a few Joneses, and the Jonzun Crew! Also, name your favorite saxophonist!
Who’s Holding Phil Now— your favorite Genesis member also moonlighted as Fixx-er!
Episode 189 is here! Time to close out our look at each year of the 80's with a Supersized Just a Bit Outside segment. Which songs were populating the lower half of the Hot 100 in the last year of the 80's? You know the big hits from acts like Warrant, Surface, and DJ Jazzy Jeff and the Fresh Prince, but these selections didn't exactly score a knockout on the charts. Some lesser known acts were also hanging out on the Hot 100, including a veteran rock band, a one hit wonder, and a man responsible for a dance hit that would become one of the most legendary house songs of all time.
Episode 188: In our look at (almost) each of the years of the 1980's, Joe and Kari are up to Episode 188, which means it's time to check out an event from 1988; the year Celine Dion sang the winning song in the Eurovision contest. While the song "Ne partez pas sans moi" might not ring any bells, it's a song that led to Celine becoming the international superstar that we now know and love.
Inspired by Celine, HRT80s highlights some of the "BEST" Canadian Songs of the 80s, as determined by the CBC, including tunes from The Parachute Club, Lee Aaron, Red Rider, and Toronto, among others. Let's raise a glass to the Great White North!
Episode 187: Time to celebrate the year 1987 by investigating some of the albums that were released in 1987! Teen queen Debbie Gibson burst onto the scene in that year, but even though she was young, it wasn't exactly an overnight success. Out of the Blue was a smash, but just how involved was young Debbie in the making of the record? (Answer: very!)
Three seasoned vets joined forces to record the beautiful album Trio, but the plans started way before 1987. Thank the heavens that their schedules finally freed up!
And a superstar followed up a blockbuster 1984 album with a decidedly different tone. Did it set the charts on fire?
Finally, the Purple One recorded but DIDN'T release an album in 1987. Find out what forces were at work to keep the album from seeing the light of day.
Episode 186: There were soundtracks a'plenty in 1986! Yes, there was Top Gun, Pretty in Pink, and Ferris Bueller's Day Off, but those have already been discussed, so it's time to check out movies like About Last Night, Out of Bounds, and Back to School. Heavy hitters like John Waite and Adam Ant are represented, and other acts like JD Souther, Nancy Shanks and Jude Cole are up for debate.
That's What Friends Are For X Coming Around Again: The (Nitty Gritty) Dirt Band found a friend in Kenny Loggins, and ended up coming around again!
Episode 185: First up in Tidbits, a review of the performances from this year’s Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony. Duran Duran, Pat Benatar, and Eurythmics performed. Some sounded better than others, do you agree with Joe and Kari’s assessments?
Episode 185 is all about 1985, particularly the debut of brand new music video channel VH1. The first VJs included Don Imus and Sha Na Na? Plus a look at the videos that played in the very first hour.
Episode 184: First up in tidbits, Joe and Kari pay tribute to the iconic Irene Cara, who we sadly lost this past weekend. Her music inspired many conversations between Joe and Kari, both on and off the air, and she will be missed.
Since it's episode 184, your hosts are looking at 1984 for significant events in Pop Music, and what could be bigger than the first ever MTV Video Music Awards? Bette Midler and Dan Aykroyd were the hosts who kept the show running smoothly (or did they?). The performances from Tina Turner, Rod Stewart, and Madonna had the audience gagged. The highs, the lows, and the WTFs are discussed as Joe and Kari dissect the inaugural "not your parents’ award show".
In celebration of episode 183, Joe and Kari rank the songs that peaked at number 83 on the Hot 100 throughout the 1980's. Songs from The Tourists, Carly Simon, Blue Oyster Cult, and Quarterflash are included, but only one song can take the top spot. Here's a hint: it's from a sister act!
Just a Bit Outside: The segment that focuses on songs that didn't quite make the Top 40 is back, with songs from big acts like Jimmy Buffett and Fine Young Cannibals (and lesser known acts like Festival and Big Noise).
Episode 182 is chock full of tidbits! Kari gives a mini-review of the new Weird Al movie, and listener Blair shares his thoughts on the Motley Crue/Def Leppard tour.
Billboard Flashback: Since this is episode 182, Joe and Kari travel back to November 1982 to flip through an old issue of Billboard Magazine. They find ads and articles for acts like George Clinton, Planet Patrol, and Joni Mitchell. The charts in 1982 were a trip -- did you know the Dynasty theme song hit the Top 20 of the AC chart? Weird.
Also included: a review of Juice Newton's live show, and new to the chart artists like Larry Jenkins and Crash Street Kids.
Episode 181: You got the Sands Preview episode a few week's back, and now it's time for the Sands REview! Joe and Kari have all the details of the festival of the year (and the scratchy voices to prove how much fun they had). Find out which acts lived up to the hype as your hosts discuss the performances by Lou Gramm, Cutting Crew, Samantha Fox, and others, including a very special surprise performance from Corey Feldman. You'll feel like you were there in Cancun along with Joe and Kari (and maybe you were -- shoutout to the listeners we saw at the shows!).
Rocktober is here! Get ready to bang your head to some of the best HARD ROCK of the 80's! Actually, Joe and Kari are not the biggest hard rock fans and cannot confirm they are the BEST, but these are definitely some of the biggest names of the decade: Metallica, Dokken, and Lita Ford. You'll need a neck brace by the end of the episode!
Coming Around Again: Spotlighting songs that were released more than once, CAA takes a look at a single from UK act Curiosity Killed the Cat. Andy Warhol was certainly curious about the band, find out how he got involved in this week's episode!
Episode 179: Joe and Kari present a podcast episode devoted to pioneers of Power Pop and Paisley Underground! (This episode is brought to you by the Letter P: and look, over in tidbits, it's Prince!)
Marshall Crenshaw, The Three O'Clock, Rain Parade and Paul Collins' Beat are a few of the acts discussed. And Hoodoo Gurus might have a funny name, but there is nothing funny about their pristine hooks! Plus, get ready for one of Joe and Kari's favorite songs from the genre.
Number 179: A look at a gospel song and how it came to be a hit in the NYC dance clubs.
Episode 178: Hello, listeners! Did you know that Sep. 15 - Oct. 15 marks Hispanic Heritage Month? It's a perfect time to highlight some of the musicians that were hitting the charts in the 80's that are of Hispanic heritage. Some of these acts will be very familiar to you (Gloria Estefan/Miami Sound Machine, Menudo, Sheila E.) and some might be new to you (Juan Gabriel, Nayobe) but one thing is for certain, the music is great! Plus, you'll get some bonus information on the Freestyle genre. Listen today and join in the celebración! (Joe is of Hispanic heritage and he wrote this, so no appropriation here!)
Episode 177: In this week’s episode, Joe and Kari welcome a very special guest: DJ Jake Rudh! You may know him from his Transmission specials (broadcast on Twitch), but Jake has been in the DJ business for over 30 years, and is a club and radio DJ in the Minneapolis area. He was kind enough to let Joe and Kari ask him all sorts of questions about his amazing career, including questions about some of the iconic performers he’s opened up for. And since Jake will once again be performing his sets at 80’s in the Sand, he’s joining Joe and Kari as they discuss just some of the acts that will be performing this year, including Morris Day and the Time, Wang Chung, and Klymaxx! You don't want to miss this one!
Episode 176: The segment "Just a Bit Outside" covers all the songs that hit the Hot 100, but never made it to the Top 40. Joe and Kari's TIRELESS effort to cover all of these songs continues in Episode 176, and this week's contenders include a singer-songwriter that is one of Joe's faves, a legendary R&B musician and icon, the artist that co-wrote one of the biggest hits of the 80's, and a superstar guitarist that's been in the news lately for all the wrong reasons.
Steel Drums: What's that sound? It's a steel drum, and it's included in all kinds of 80's songs, including singles from Spyro Gyra and El Debarge with Debarge (featuring DeBarge).
Episode 175: First up in tidbits, some 80's-related TV notes (Cobra Kai, Women Who Rock), and a reaction to the first trailer for the upcoming Whitney Houston biopic. Then it's time for the main topic, a Billboard magazine flashback to the September 19, 1987 issue. A new band's debut album and single "demand your attention!" Then, a news article explains why Michael Jackson's blockbuster "Bad" album won't debut on this week's chart. The top-grossing live shows include some faves, plus an R&B legend comes out on top. Remember the movie "He's My Girl"? Probably not, but Billboard does! Also included: REM, The Fabulous Thunderbirds, and get ready to bundle up because it's about to get FROSTY!
Episode 174: Since Kari was stoked to see one of her favorite bands, Crowded House, live in concert later this month, she thought it would be a good time to discuss the band's history in this week's episode. Crowded House may have postponed their US dates, but HRT80s must go on! The story begins with brothers Tim and Neil Finn (and the band Split Enz), and endz with another set of brothers! Meanwhile, Joe wanted to discuss ABC due to his recent obsession with the insane video for "The Look of Love". This suave UK act is responsible for some great "sophisti-pop", and ABC's Martin Fry is still at it!
The Other Number Ones: This episode, number one hits from the Dance and R&B are represented by music from Rockers Revenge and LeVert. Should the songs have fared better on the Hot 100?
Episode 173: Remember a few weeks back when Joe and Kari ranked songs with America in the title? They had so much fun, they decided to open it up to all the countries around the world! Songs that were "Big in Japan" or had you "Dancing Under a Latin Moon" are up for debate! The list is quite diverse, so there is sure to be a song in the mix that that you love, or maybe you will hear a song for the first time!
Number 173: Joe and Kari went to the lists of the 200 best songs of the 80's and found the entries for 173: An influential punk band from the Pacific Northwest and a beloved UK synth pop group!
Episode 172: Joe and Kari left off on the letter "H" in the R&B Singles reference book, so it's time to check in with some artists that were putting in a lot of time on the R&B Chart: Howard Hewett, Miki Howard (did we know she was in Poetic Justice??), and Phyllis Hyman. By the time they get to the letter J, they are dealing with some legends: Millie Jackson and Al Jarreau.
HRT80s Court is in session! Our case in this week's episode: The Pet Shop Boys didn't rip off Cat Stevens, or did they? Surprise witness Jonathan King is here, and he is no stranger to the judicial system! Get ready for a ruling!
Episode 171: Coming Around Again; the segment which focuses on songs that charted or were released more than once is back again! The song "Don't Tell Me Lies" by UK act Breathe got a remix and a second shot at success on the Hot 100, as did an early single from Adam and the Ants. John Foxx and Paul Young (or rather, their record labels) also re-released some singles...did any of them deserve a second chance?
Just a Bit Outside: no second chances for these singles from Rush, Crystal Gayle, Kiss and Bonham. They have been relegated to the lower reaches of the Hot 100, but should they have charted higher?
Episode 170: Of course, Joe and Kari have to pay tribute to Olivia Newton-John. Kari said it best in one of the first episodes of HRT80's: ONJ is our superstar, forever and always.
Ebony And Ivory: More long piano solos from the 80's -- including songs from Peter Cetera, Smokey Robinson, and Fine Young Cannibals. Kari is a huge fan of piano and keyboards in popular music, but does she enjoy all of the songs covered in this segment? Before you answer, we forgot to mention that Manhattan Transfer is also on the list.
Obscure Soundtrack Songs: Kari teased an upcoming segment, did you guess that we would be discussing The Boy Who Could Fly? Because Joe was stumped! And don't forget there's more music in Flashdance than just Irene Cara and Michael Sembello!
Episode 169: Joe and Kari are celebrating the 41st anniversary of MTV by revisiting the videos that were chosen to air on that first day of programming. We all know "Video Killed the Radio Star" by the Buggles was the first video to air, but the Buggles also had another video in rotation at the time. Lesser known acts like PhD and Robin Lane and the Chartbusters were also pioneers by having produced videos early in their career, as well as Lee Ritenour and The Shoes. Big names like Paul McCartney and Pete Townshend were also in the early rotation.
Just a Bit Outside: Songs that hit the Hot 100 but didn't make it to the Top 40. Jefferson Airplane aka Jefferson Starship aka Starship were in the bottom half of the Hot 100 in 1980 AND in 1989. Did they deserve to chart higher??
Episode 168: Billboard Flashback, July 28, 1984: Let's look at some advertisements and articles from an old issue of Billboard Magazine. First up, is America ready for Wendy O. Williams? Her label ponied up for a front page ad touting "The finest heavy rock album since Pyromania." Well she certainly loved fire. Page 2 features the former lead singer of The J. Geils Band, Peter Wolf. Is his debut album a departure from his previous work? Also, an article lists some of the disappointments in the music world from 1984, plus a look at some of the most added songs and videos of the time.
Episode 167: What's your favorite 80's soundtrack? There are so many great ones out there, so Joe and Kari decided to take a look at some of the more obscure offerings. Cyndi Lauper's first movie role resulted in the song "Hole in My Heart"…does the song give you the Vibes? Vision Quest had some big hits, but it's also got overlooked gems from Don Henley and Sammy Hagar. Finally, the soundtrack for Ruthless People was packed full of superstars like Mick Jagger and Billy Joel, but the contributions from Dan Hartman and The Machinations deserve some love too.
Number 167: Treblezine and Pitchfork ranked their Top 200 songs of the 80's. Number 167 on those lists come from LL Cool J and Yoko Ono. Were they ranked correctly?
Episode 166 is here, and the category is...Songs with Hand Claps (hold for applause). There are many Hot 100 hits from the 80's that feature hands as instruments, and Joe and Kari discuss some of the deeper hits: songs from the Kingbees, Vaughan Mason and Crew, and Nicolette Larson, among others.
Just a Bit Outside: the "hit" from 1980 comes from "musical act" Starland Vocal Band and the "song" "Loving You With My Eyes". Unfortunately we had to listen to this with our ears. The selection from 1989 is a bit better (on the eyes, not the ears) -- Fiona with Kip Winger.
Episode 165: Our tidbits are packed to the gills, thanks to Milwaukee's Summerfest! Kari witnessed performances from some great acts like The Fixx, Modern English, Howard Jones and Midge Ure. Find out who put on the best show.
A Happy Belated 4th of July is next: Joe and Kari rank some Hot 100 hits with America or USA in the title (they also threw in a song from the band America because they are sneaky like that). Rock, R&B, Pop, Yacht Rock, New Wave: many genres are represented but only one song can win the grand prize!
Episode 164: We timed this one just right for the second part of Stranger Things Season 4, which drops on Netflix on July 1. It's an in-depth look at the music used in the show's first 4 seasons. If you haven't watched the show yet, first of all, what are you waiting for? But even if it's still on your To-Do List, Joe and Kari are bringing a spoiler-free review of the great songs from Cutting Crew, Gentlemen Afterdark, New Order and many more!
Coming Around Again: The segment that focuses on songs that were released more than once is back, with a spotlight on the Def Leppard song "Bringin' on the Heartbreak." Do you prefer the original version, or the beefed-up Mutt Lange remix? I know nothing stays the same, but if you're willing to play the game....
Episode 163: Of course, we begin with a quick Kate Bush update (HRT80s has never been so invested in a current Hot 100 chart), and then it's time to discuss some superstars from the R&B Chart. Last time we visited the subject, we left off on the letter H -- so get ready for info on Isaac Hayes, Leon Haywood, Heavy D and others.
Number 163: Since it's episode 163, we are focusing on number 163 on Treblezine's top 200 songs of the 80's, which is "There She Goes" by UK act The La's. You know this song whether you were a fan back in the day, or maybe you're a fan of Gilmore Girls or Sixpence None the Richer. No judgment!
Episode 162: First in tidbits is an update on the Kate Bush Chart Resurgence of 2022: she's back, BABY!
Then it’s a super-sized Just A Bit Outside; a look at the songs of 1980 and 1989 that didn't quite hit the Top 40, including songs from Foreigner, John Denver, and Chunky A (psst, it's really Arsenio). And you don't want to miss the song that Joe calls the absolute worst song ever covered on HRT80s.
Then it’s time for That's What Friends Are For, the segment where we discuss musicians who get some help in the studio from their famous friends. Warren Zevon got some help from Linda Ronstadt and some of the Eagles on his 1980 Bad Luck Streak in Dancing School.
Episode 161: Joe and Kari have returned from a little break -- Kari went on a European vacation just like the Griswolds, but Stonehenge remains in tact! Since it's been a few weeks since they've caught up, the first segment is Revenge of the Tidbits! The music world has been shaken up by some classic 80's songs that have seen a resurgence of late, and Kari fills us in on the 80's music aspects of her vacation.
Fleetwood Mac: We all know them and we all love them, but how do the members of the Mac stack up when comparing their solo 80's releases? Joe and Kari take a look at the Top 40 chart happenings of Lindsey, Christine, Mick and Stevie.
Episode 160: This week, Kari and Joe chose two artists for the HRT80s spotlight. Kari picked singer/songwriter John Hiatt -- a musician who began his career in the 70's and went on to become a well-respected figure in the industry and had his songs covered by other legends like Bonnie Raitt, Eric Clapton and BB King, and Jon Bon Jovi. Joe was inspired by the recent announcement of inductees for the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and picked the Eurythmics, an act that has a ton of big hits on the Hot 100, as well as a trove of deeper hits that deserve a listen.
Bagpipes: Since Kari is headed to Scotland, they decided to brush up on some 80's hits that feature the bagpipes (and the similar sounding Uillean Pipes), from Rod Stewart and The Adventures.
Episode 159: It’s been teased for a few weeks, and the time has finally come: Joe and Kari give their review of the Mixtape Tour: NKOTB, Rick Astley, Salt N Pepa, and En Vogue! The show was 2.5 hours of nonstop hits...and a little bit of Magic Mike! Find out the highs and lows, and what it’s like to get Rickrolled in real life.
Scottish Acts: Since Kari is headed to the UK, the HRT80’s duo takes a look at some of the finest 80's music to come out of Scotland. Altered Images, The Waterboys, and Orange Juice are a few of the acts which are highlighted. Because if it’s not Scottish … well you know the rest!
Episode 158: The 80's alternative music festival Cruel World is this weekend in Pasadena, and although Joe and Kari will not be attending (cruel world, indeed), they thought that discussing a bunch of the acts that will be performing would be the next best thing! Put on some heavy eyeliner and listen in as they discuss acts like Berlin, Gene Loves Jezebel, The Church, and Echo and the Bunnymen.
Episode 157: There are a lot of May birthdays for some of our favorite 80's acts. Steve Stevens became famous for his work with Billy Idol, but he did a lot of great work on his own, including a theme for one of the biggest movies of the decade. Members of the Housemartins and China Crisis are also blowing out some candles this month. Get out your party hats and (Art of) Noisemakers!
Just a Bit Outside: Joe and Kari celebrate some huge songs from the 1980's that didn't hit the top 40: songs you may remember from Budweiser commercials or your cousin Tina's wedding reception. It's electric!
Episode 156 is here! Time to head back to 1980 to take a look at the headlines, charts, and paid advertisements in Billboard magazine, dated April 26, 1980. Arista Records sprung for an ad on the cover touting the "sensational hit single" "Fire in the Morning" by Melissa Manchester. Money well spent? Al Johnson, Ian Hunter, and Ozark Mountain Daredevils are a few of the other artists within the pages, plus an editorial from a light salesman that tries to convince the American public that disco is NOT dead.
Coming Around Again: British band B-Movie recorded their 1980 single "Nowhere Girl" more than once, but was it worth it? Listen to the newest episode of HRT80's to find out!
Episode 155: Believe it or not, there are a lot of 80's songs that feature the violin (just now realizing that we forgot to include that Lambda Lambda Lambda song from the finale of Revenge of the Nerds, darn it!). Check out the new segment "Strings and Things" for a rundown of some great 80's tunes that feature both traditional violin sounds as well as that wacky "pizzicato" technique.
HRT80s Court: It's a case within a case this week. The Fixx has a new single out that includes a bass line that sounds awfully familiar. Did they rip off a classic 90's song, or did THAT band get their inspiration from the "Eighties"? It's no Joke, check out Episode 155!
Episode 154 is here! Remember that television program Hit Me Baby One More Time? Where fading pop stars performed their classic songs and contemporary covers, in an effort to restart their career? It's okay, Joe and Kari didn't really remember it either, but since so many great 80's acts took part, they decided to watch a few episodes of the UK version to see how everyone fared. Get ready for clips from Howard Jones, Tiffany, Limahl, Belinda CarLISLE, and others! The first episode of Hit Me Baby One More Time is up on YouTube if you'd like to get acquainted first, or just dive on in to Episode 154 of HRT80s!
Episode 153 is here! Joe and Kari discuss more acts that placed a ton of singles on the R&B Chart. They left off near the beginning of the alphabet, but they take a quick detour to the letter S (for reasons that will be explained) to discuss Slave, a brassy band with 15 hits on the chart in the 80's. Georgio, Johnny Gill, Herbie Hancock, Nona Hendryx and Stacy Lattisaw also take a turn under the microscope.
Number 153: According to Pitchfork.com, THIS song was number 153 on their list of the best 80's songs. We're all Steppin' Out on this episode of HRT80s!
Episode 152: 80's Movie Soundtrack Mania! Did you know that the Against All Odds soundtrack has music NOT by Phil Collins on it?! It was news to Joe and Kari! Kid Creole and the Coconuts perform a delightful song and even appear in the movie! Other obscure movie tunes from The Heavenly Kid, The Lost Boys, Secret Admirer and (sigh) Hunk pop up as well.
Just a Bit Outside: An offshoot of the Detroit Wheels and a Grammy-winning sound engineer are the two acts featured who almost hit the Top 40.
Episode 151: What exactly is Power Pop? There are a few guidelines, but really, you'll know it when you hear it. The Knack and Cheap Trick are a couple of the more popular Power Pop bands, but since this is HRT80's, Joe and Kari spotlight a few of the lesser-known acts: The Kings, XTC, and The Spongetones, among others.
That's What Friends Are For: Culture Club backing vocalist, and (one-time) friend of Boy George, Helen Terry gets her moment to shine in the spotlight. Love Lies Lost was a Top 40 UK Hit, but what happened next?
Episode 150! Can you believe it?? Joe and Kari have decided to spend this momentous occasion (or maybe it was a coincidence) to take a deep dive into the careers of "artistes" Devo and Rickie Lee Jones. Kari chose to investigate the art-rockers Devo and how they got started. Joe is obsessed with Rickie Lee Jones. These two acts definitely march to the beat of their own drum.
Coming Around Again: The ubiquitous 80's hit "Walking on Sunshine" was actually the second version of the song, who knew? Tune in to Episode 150 - and don't it feel good??!!
Episode 149: Got a minute? Joe and Kari are bringing you more epic guitar solos that last around 60 seconds, including classics from artists you would expect (Santana, Guns 'N' Roses, Led Zeppelin), as well as some deeper hits from acts like Vandenberg, J. Blackfoot, and Bad Company.
Who's Holding Phil Now? It's the same old story from Mr. Collins -- he tells record execs "I'm not doing that!" and then of course, he ends up doing just that -- including a big hit from his foray into film acting Buster.
Episode 148: Hope you love the segment "Just a Bit Outside" as much as Joe and Kari do, because that's the sole focus of this episode -- but with a twist!! Since Joe complained so much about focusing on the deeper hits from the year 1980, Kari decided to zoom on up to 1989! So get ready for songs from 1989's brightest stars: Neneh Cherry, Dino...and Loverboy?!
Episode 147 is here! Joe and Kari take a look at the Billboard issue from February 22, 1986, with a highlight on R&B News and Charts. Did you know how many times James Brown hit the Hot 100?? Billboard's resident chart watcher (and Psychic Friend) Paul Grein knew! James Brown was on the charts with a song from Rocky IV. Jermaine Jackson, Bernard Wright and Dana Dane were making waves on the R&B Chart in 1986, and the Reagan Administration put an end to War on Drugs. It was a big week!
Friend of the podcast Michael drops in to quiz Joe and Kari on some trailblazers in R&B and Hip Hop. Who will reign? Tune in and find out!
Episode 146: The 2022 Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Nominees have been announced, and this year's crop includes some MTV-era stars as well as a certain Country & Western Icon. Don't forget to vote daily for your faves!!
R&B Superstars: Kari's reference book come in handy once again this week. Time for a closer look at some of the acts that were dominating the R&B Chart in the 80's: D Train, The Emotions, and Fatback are just a few of the artists that made this week's playlist one of the funkiest in recent history!! (Also they discuss The Family.)
Episode 145: The Janet Jackson documentary dropped, and Joe and Kari have some opinions! It's hard to distill the impact of Janet's music and legacy into four hours (with commercials), but overall, viewers were treated to some behind-the-scenes footage that allowed a glimpse into the music. Was it enough?
What better time to look at the 80's music output of some of the other Jacksons: Rebbie, LaToya, and Marlon. Joe and Kari discuss which songs are worth listening to.
Just a Bit Outside: The segment that checks out songs that didn't quite make the Top 40 is back. Another famous last name was releasing music -- Sly's brother released a Joni Mitchell cover -- but why??
Episode 144: Ready for another episode of Hey, Remember the 80's? Joe and Kari take a look at the R&B Chart to highlight some of the artists that dominated that chart throughout the 80's. Atlantic Starr, George Benson, and Cameo are some of the powerhouse acts that put over 20 songs on the R&B Chart.
Top of the Pops: A quick look at two songs that topped the UK Singles Chart. One from the British Elvis, and a duet between two unlikely acts.
Episode 143: Longest Sax Solos of the 80's, Part Two! The saxophone solo is a staple of your favorite 80's hits, time to check in on some doozies: Wang Chung and Go West are two synth-based acts, but they weren't afraid to dust of the sax when needed! The Stray Cats and The Rolling Stones show up as well.
Quiz Time: Kari recently took part of a trivia contest, time to see how Joe would've fared. Who will emerge victorious??
Episode 142: That's What Friends Are For…Joe and Kari keep smilin', keep shinin' as they highlight the 80's tunes which feature famous musicians in the studio that are paying a favor to their friends. A former Eagle recruits Kim Carnes for backup, while Dave Mason does one better and gets the biggest star of the 80's to sing backup for him.
Coming Around Again: A couple of songs get a second chance on the charts! One song is from a British act, and one is from the King of Rock and Roll!
Episode 141: Everybody's gotta start somewhere, and in this episode of HRT80's, Joe and Kari are taking a look at some of the earlier songs from legendary songwriter Diane Warren. She has written some of the biggest hits of all-time, like "How Do I Live," "Nothing's Gonna Stop Us Now" and "I Don't Want to Miss a Thing," but in the 80's, she wrote some songs that DIDN'T top the charts. She wrote songs for Barbara Mandrell, Melissa Manchester, and Ronnie Spector, among others. Some of these are really good! And for others, the top spot on the Hot 100 was a real moonshot.
Episode 140: Joe and Kari took a little break for the holidays, but they are BACK, and to coincide with the first episode of the New Year, they are taking a look at the first time some of your faves hit the Hot 100: Survivor, Don Henley, and the solo debuts of a couple members of the Go-Go's are the first up. You'll also hear about the debut of Jermaine Stewart and cuties Roman Holliday.
Quiz Time: Joe and Kari face off with a little 80's music trivia. Who will be the Queen (not a spoiler) of 80's music trivia? Find out in this new episode of HRT80s.
Episode 139: Santa brought everyone a SUPER-SIZED episode this week, as well as an appearance from friend of the podcast Michael! This week's topic: Grand Theft Auto (it's a video game, and don't worry if you've never played it, Joe hasn't either). The MUSIC in Grand Theft Auto is Amazingggg, lots of big hits and obscure 80’s songs. Joe, Kari, and Michael give you the rundown on some of the musicians and songs included, like songs from Whodini, Roxy Music, and Sigue Sigue Sputnik.
Quiz Time: Kari, that wily minx, pits Joe and Michael against each other to see who knows more about those songs that hit the Bubbling Under chart. Place your bets now!
Episode 138: Another look at some of the songs that were topping Billboard's other charts: Dance, R&B, Rock. First, dueling Steely Dan/Michael Jackson mash-ups, did they get paid for this? Siedah Garrett was topping the dance chart as well. She was hot off of her number one with MJ, was this song the right move for her? Also, Bobby Brown made solo music before "Don't Be Cruel" - who knew? And a look at a song that was made famous again after an SNL sketch.
Just A Bit Outside: April Wine and Narada Michael Walden hit the Hot 100 in the early 80's, did they deserve to chart higher?
Episode 137: A momentous occasion for sure; Kari re-evaluates her stance on the music of Dire Straits! Joe and Kari reveal the longest organ solos of the 80's: J. Geils Band, Axe, and Crowded House make the list, and you will also learn exactly what a "brewer's droop" is, for better or worse.
Who's Holding Phil Now: Time to check in on Phil Collins, who probably spent more time in the studio than any other 80's musician. Even former bandmate Peter Gabriel couldn't resist asking Phil to help out on his solo albums.
One big tidbit kicks off the episode: a summary of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony and tributes to Carole King, Tina Turner, the Go-Go's, and LL Cool J.
Then it's Time to go Back in Time, to November 30th, 1985 to be exact. Ads and articles in that edition of Billboard Magazine highlight artists like Arcadia, Kurtis Blow, Grace Jones, and Jack Wagner, who did NOT wear an eye patch in whatever soap opera he starred in. And finally, a review for an actor-slash-singer who had some LOFTY goals.
Episode 135: The 80’s had no shortage of amazing female vocalists, and in this episode, Joe and Kari will be ranking the hits of three talented women: Linda Ronstadt, Barbra Streisand, and … Juice Newton? Yes, chart-wise, these three had about the same amount of hits!! It’s no secret that Joe loves Juice Newton, but will she nab the top spot?
That’s What Friends Are For — it should come as a surprise to no one, but the members of Duran Duran had a LOT of famous friends. But who among them would show up to the studio when it came time to record a third single for one of their side projects??
Episode 134 is here! First things first, why did the last episode end with Paula Abdul's "Vibeology"?
Next, a deep dive into two 80's acts that have been on tour recently -- The Psychedelic Furs and The Fixx. Kari saw The Psychedelic Furs in Milwaukee, so she tackles their history and some notable songs. Joe has tickets for The Fixx in STL, so he's got the rundown on their career and music highlights.
Just a Bit Outside: some non-Top 40 singles from 2 big names (Blondie and .38 Special), and one from a lesser-known R&B Singer/Songwriter.
Episode 133: The time has finally arrived for Joe and Kari to reveal all about 80's in the Sand, the five day 80's music festival in Cancun. They discuss the highs, the lows, and everything in between! Billy Idol was the headliner (and put on a great show), but everyone from The Little River Band to The Smithereens gave it their all! Find out which acts put on fantastic poolside sets, and which acts blew the doors off the auditorium. Put on some SPF 50, grab a Miami Vice, and feel the vibes!
Episode 132: Joe and Kari will discuss their recent Cancun adventures very soon in an upcoming 80's in the Sands episode, but for now, please enjoy this episode covering an event that has been talked about in passing in previous episodes. The Nelson Mandela 70th Birthday Tribute was a massive undertaking that occurred at Wembley Stadium in 1988. Diverse acts like Sting, Joan Armatrading, and Simple Minds performed. Listen to clips from the concert from these acts and more, as well as commentary from Joe and Kari.
Episode 131: 80's in the Sand is approaching, an 80's music festival in Cancun, and as part of the preparation, Joe and Kari are taking a closer look at some of the musicians that will be appearing. Little River Band seems like a 70's act to Kari, but they've got a lot more 80's hits than she remembers! Howard Jones is a bit of a question mark, in terms of Will He Really Be Attending but also Which Howard Jones Song is This Again?? The Hooters, Janet of Vixen and Honeymoon Suite are a few more acts that Joe and Kari wanted to learn more about. Put on your sunscreen and join in on the fun!
Episode 130: A quick music video roundup by Joe is first in Tidbits, then it's time for Obscure Soundtrack Songs. Who remembers the soundtracks for DC Cab, Mannequin, and Secret of My Success? The movies were popular on cable and at your local video rental store, but do the songs from the soundtracks hold up? Even Belinda Carlisle forgot about one of these songs, and she sang it!
Just a Bit Outside: the creator of Live Aid and a jazz legend put some songs on the chart in the early 80's. Did they deserve to chart higher? Joe and Kari decide.
Episode 129: First up, in Tidbits, a review of the Tina Turner DVD, a live concert from a 1990 show in Barcelona, and then it's time for TV Tidbits (Max Headroom and Ted Lasso).
ROCKTOBER is upon us!! Joe and Kari take a look at the career of Ronnie James Dio, and his work with Black Sabbath and his transition to forming the influential group Dio. Also, VH1 put together a list of the Greatest Hard Rock songs, which included some great 80's songs from Guns 'N' Roses and Mötley Crüe, among others.
Pop Quiz for Joe. How well does he know the 80's hits with notable flute solos? Answer: Not very!
Episode 128: If you've listened to a "Ranking the Hits" episode, you know how it works. Joe and Kari rank the Top 40 singles of a particular artist and then share the results. This time, we are ranking the LOWEST charting hits for some 80's superstars -- Madonna, Hall and Oates, Lionel Ritchie, they're all here! Did these "hits" deserve a higher chart placement?
Songs That Time Forgot: A UK hit that is to blame for a million Kayleighs. And The Boss returns to the charts with an unexpected curveball.
Episode 127: A Rick Astley update and Kari's dispatch from the Psychedelic Furs show kick off Tidbits, then Joe and Kari go Back in Time to September 16, 1989, and a look into the week's issue of Billboard Magazine. The record label behind Soulsister (who?) shelled out some big bucks for a full page ad to create buzz. Did it work? Also featured in the pages: IRS Records, Melissa Etheridge, Flock of Seagulls, and many more!
Episode 126: First in Tidbits: ABBA is back!! But how are the new singles? Joe and Kari give their early opinions.
In Just a Bit Outside: in honor of Charlie's new program on Charlie's 80's Attic, 80's Deep Dive, Joe and Kari take a listen to some of the songs that charted on the Hot 100 but did not make it to the Top 40. A few familiar names pop up, but some of these artists are being discussed on the show for the very first (and last??) time.
Then in Coming Around Again: Tears for Fears and Kim Wilde are not strangers to the upper reaches of the Hot 100, but some of their singles needed a do-over. Did it help???
Episode 125: Welcome back! First up it’s Tidbits: Kari gives us the rundown (and geography lesson) of the Squeeze/Hall & Oates show in Milwaukee. One of these acts gave it their all, and one had some "sound issues."
Next, Ladies of Hip Hop Part 2: Kari and Joe take a look at MC Lyte, Queen Latifah, and JJ Fad. These influential women burst onto the scene in the 80's and made their mark on the charts.
Then it’s The Other Number Ones: Voggue, The Fixx and, Force MDs hit the top spot on Dance, Mainstream Rock, and R&B charts. Which songs stand the test of time?
Episode 124: Kari has a new show on Charlie's 80's Attic called Dare to Be Different. It is a show based on the music from iconic radio stations WLIR and KROQ (think new wave, punk, and non-mainstream). So in celebration of her new show we are taking a look at songs which fit into that format: songs from Robert Palmer (yes, THAT Robert Palmer), King, and Missing Persons.
Next, grab your boarding passes as it's time for Top of The Pops! This is the segment where your hosts take a look at number one hits from Across the Pond. Find out if Boris Gardiner and Yazz and the Plastic Population were as successful on the Billboard charts as they were in the UK.
Episode 123: Time to close out our look at the Village Voice Pazz and Jop Polls, this time with 1988 and 1989. Sonic Youth and Tracy Chapman were some of the big winners in 1988. Do you remember hearing "Fast Car" for the first time? But like, really heard it? 1989 winners include Neil Young, with a song that Joe is absolutely FEELING.
Next, in Just a Bit Outside, two iconic rock acts barely hit the Hot 100 in 1980 with a couple of songs that don't get much play in this day and age. Were they underrated?? You be the judge.
Episode 122: There's no doubt that Janet Jackson, Paula Abdul and Jody Watley ruled the 2nd half of the 80's, but whose hits hold up the best?? Joe and Kari are ranking the Top 40 hits of these R&B/Dance queens to find out who reigns supreme. Don't be Cold Hearted or Nasty, tune in today, Friends!!
Then it’s Who's Holding Phil Now? Yes, Phil Collins was quick to help his famous friends in the studio, but he also chipped in when his less-famous friends needed a hand as well. Apologies upfront for Joe's singing voice when he debuts the segment's new theme song.
Episode 121: Inspired by Kari's recent book choice, The Motherlode by Clover Hope. Episode 121 is about some of the female Hip Hop pioneers: Mercedes Young Ladies, The Sequence, and Roxanne Shante. Joe and Kari also breakdown a historic battle called The Roxanne Wars (1984 - 1985). There were no survivors.
Next is The Screamer of the Week which is inspired by historic radio station WLIR. This segment features cutting edge rock music from the early 80's, with a look at a Sting-assisted band that should've made A Bigger Splash.
Episode 120: It's one of those rare episodes where Joe and Kari are in the same room at the same time!
After a brief recap of their 80's antics together, it's time for Sophisti-pop! Inspired by a recent Transmission from DJ Jake Rudh, Joe and Kari are taking a look at some more sophisti-pop artists (Bryan Ferry, Spandau Ballet, Prefab Sprout, etc).
Finally, it’s time to bring back an old segment. Cyndi Lauper had a lot riding on her comeback single "True Colors", but was the video the work of an artistic genius, or was it child's play? Joe and Kari take sides in "Trash or Treasure".
Episode 119: Joe and Kari are back on the Pazz and Jop scene! Which albums and singles topped the polls in 1986 and 1987? 1986 was a big year for Paul Simon's Graceland as well as the music that inspired him, and 1987 saw Prince at the top with an album that took many forms before it was ultimately released to the public. // Just a Bit Outside -- a Happy Days guest star and a Wild Cherry offshoot try their best to hit the Top 40, with varying results.
Episode 118: First in Tidbits, a follow-up of sorts to our HRT80's Court segment featuring Elvis Costello // Pazz and Jop -- picking back up in 1984, Joe and Kari run down the winners of the Pazz and Jop poll in 1984 and 1985. Bruce Springsteen and Talking Heads were the big winners on the album side, and hip hop pioneers Run DMC and Doug E. Fresh scored big on the singles side // Songs That Time Forgot -- Kari and Joe picked a few new wave/electronic acts to single out.
Episode 117: Please forgive Joe and Kari, who are not operating at 100% this week (Kari has a summer cold and Joe was just a dummy and partied too hard during Pride). BUT! They go hard on Tidbits and then take you back to 1988. What was topping the various charts on this week in July? You’ll get R&B, Adult Contemporary, and whatever genre Nick Kamen belonged to. Join Joe and Kari in July 1988!
Episode 116: June is Pride Month, and HRT80s is back with an episode that spotlights 80's artists who are part of the LGBT community. Some real icons here!! // Segment two is "Just A Bit Outside" -- our look at a song that didn't hit the Top 40. Did it deserve to become a hit??
Episode 115: We've heard about the longest guitar and piano solos of the 1980's, and in this episode, Joe and Kari focus on the sax! Take a deep breath and dive right in! Grover Washington and legend Junior Walker make an appearance, as well as some artists you may not expect. // Just a Bit Outside -- That segment that looks at songs that peaked outside the top 40 is back, with a couple of names that are new to the podcast. Did they deserve to go all the way? You be the judge!
Episode 114: Joe and Kari are back to discuss the results of the Village Voice Pazz and Jop Poll from 1982 and 1983. Just like last time, there are some artists that don't get many Top 40 hits, but are they worthy?? Elvis Costello, X and Grandmaster Flash are a few of the artists that find some love from the critics. // Hey Remember the 80's Court: A recent Stereogum article highlights the similarities between "Wild Wild West" and "Pump It Up" -- Joe and Kari take it to the courts to decide -- Did Escape Club rip off Elvis Costello?? Short answer: Yes. Long answer: Yes, but Elvis is guilty too!!
Episode 113: So many tidbits this week, we almost called this episode "The Tidbit Hour" but worry not -- Joe and Kari finally get to the main event, Longest Guitar Solos of the 80's. Joe and Kari love a nice, shredding guitar solo, and this rundown of the longest guitar solos in Hot 100 Hits will have you saying "Oh. Sure", "Hmm...okay, I guess," and "Who is that now??" // Screamer of the Week -- Joe and Kari just can't stop headbanging this week with a look at some picks from influential rock station WLIR. Rock on!!!
Episode 112: Tidbits: Duran Duran has a new song! It's...something! // Pazz and Jop: The Village Voice runs a poll of the best songs and albums of the year, and it's quite different from the Top 40!! Joe and Kari take a look at how it came to be. Some interesting pics for the early 80's, including the Clash, Laurie Anderson, Pylon, and other acts that Casey Kasem didn't really discuss. // That's Not a Number One Hit...THIS is a Number One Hit -- Julian Lennon was still hitting the charts in Australia after his run of US and UK hits dried up. And it's a good one! Now You're In Heaven when you tune into the newest episode!
Episode 111: After being bumped for the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame announcement, Joe and Kari finally bring you Hi-NRG! From Donna Summer to Tarzan Boy, your hosts discuss the roots of this energetic genre which got started in dance clubs in the late 70s.
Your hosts discuss the origin story of the Hit Factory of Stock, Aitken, and Waterman and how they initially had money problem; but that all changed after they became involved in Hi-NRG. Kari and Joe have some opinions on the genre, have some theories about the Hit Factory's money woes, and tell a story about a young errand boy who would never give up.
Next is Just a Bit Outside, where it is all about eyes. Kari and Joe talk about Sad Eyes, Lonely Eyes, and get confused along the way. What they aren't confused about is how George Tobin ripped off The Bee Gees.
Episode 110: This week’s episode is sponsored by the letter F. The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame announced the inductees for 2021! Who was chosen for this illustrious honor? Joe and Kari run down the list and give their opinions. And then it's time to spotlight those 80's acts that were inducted over the last decade: some were drama-filled, some were overdue, and some were just right. Time to put this issue to rest (at least until 2022).
Episode 109: Breaking news in Tidbits, along with some MTV Classic discussion. Was Billy Idol always so hot? Survey says: Yes.
With voting for the 2021 Rock and Roll Hall of Fame completed, it's time for another look at the 80's acts which have already been inducted. Detective Kari has uncovered some information that was missing from part one, but apparently we may never get all of the answers from the HOF Powers That Be.
Finally, in Songs That Time Forgot, your hosts discuss two songs which fared well on the international charts (here in the US, not so much).
Episode 108: MTV Classic shows up in the tidbits...is anyone else watching this channel?? It's Joe's new obsession.
Joe and Kari then take a look at the now defunct Cash Box charts. What was sitting at Number 100 on this date throughout the 80's? Anything worth listening to these days? Short answer: not really!!
Top of the Pops is next. A discussion about what was hitting Number One on the UK Singles Chart. A US singer/songwriter finds success across the pond, and a London DJ gets a "sample" of the big time!
Episode 107: RIP Jim Steinman. You sure knew how to write a wordy hit song.
Rock and Roll Hall Of Fame. Since Kari is always reminding everyone to vote on the 2021 inductees, we thought we would take this time to look at the HOF history. Plenty of our favorite acts have already been inducted - but by whom? And why? These are questions Joe and Kari attempt to answer, but since the HOF is a mysterious bunch, some questions remain unanswered…for now.
Just a Bit Outside. Two more acts who didn't make the Top 40; but did they deserve to boogie into the top spot, or was it all just a "money" grab? Find out when you listen to the newest episode of HRT80s!
Episode 106: Joe and Kari welcome a special guest to the show: Charlie of Charlie's 80's Attic! He recently had a program on the radio station counting down his Most Overrated Songs of the 1980's. Charlie was certain that Joe and Kari would have some issues with some of his picks, and although they agreed with the bulk of the choices, there were a few that need to be defended!! Listen to Joe, Kari and Charlie discuss why some of the biggest hits of the 1980's simply became too big over time.
Episode 105: With Kari's love of the piano, we can't believe it has taken this long to do an episode about those 80's songs with great piano solos!! There were some monster piano solos in the 80's and this episode highlights those hits that featured some amazing ivory ticklers. Of course, you'll hear about Bruce Hornsby and Billy Joel, but there are some surprises as well!
Quiz Time! Joe continues his quest to identify those One Hit Wonders of the 80's, this time from artists that start with K and L (sorry, Kajagoogoo -- ya basic!).
Episode 104: It's the tidbit you've been waiting for: Joe and Kari discuss the recent Tina Turner documentary! Hopefully you've caught it by now, and if not, Kari will lend you her HBO Max password (just kidding!). Back in Time: 1985 was a memorable year for music, and Joe and Kari take a look at what was topping all sorts of charts in this week in 1985: R&B, rock, and the number ones in Australia and Germany. In Songs that Time Forgot your hosts dust off some 45s and revisit some international acts who put out some great songs.
Episode 103: John Waite and Kim Carnes each had one solo Number One hit in the 80's -- but they were so much more than just their big hit! John Waite certainly had the drive and the talent, and don't discount his work with the supergroup Bad English! Kari takes a closer look at his output in our favorite decade. And Kim Carnes started out as a vocalist in The New Christy Minstrels, but she was writing and singing her way through an epic discography. Joe looks at her work and tries to figure out why her post-"Bette Davis Eyes" career just didn't take off.
St. Patrick's Day is upon us, so Joe and Kari are taking a look at some songs that topped the Irish charts in the 80's, and really it's just an excuse for them to say one of their favorite names in the biz: Feargal Sharkey! Join them for a look at those artists that claimed their pot of gold in Ireland: Human League, F.R. David, and Chris DeBurgh, to name a few!
Just a Bit Outside: On the US charts, there were quite a few acts that didn't quite make the Top 40. Did they deserve a Top 40 hit? That's another question...
Episode 101 is here, and Joe and Kari have invited a special guest: friend of the podcast Michael! He did some research on the songs that topped the charts on Country, R&B, Modern Rock and Dance charts that did not even make an appearance on the Hot 100, and there were quite a few!! Time to take a closer look at just a few of the songs and figure out just what happened.
In the exciting finale, the quizzers become the quizzees: Joe and Kari are tasked to identify 10 songs that made a huge impact on the R&B charts. How do they fare? Tune in and find out!
Episode 100: Thanks for listening to Hey! Remember the 80's? for a whole ONE HUNDRED episodes! Joe and Kari are beyond thrilled to reach this milestone, and happy that you've listened all this time. In this episode, you will hear Joe and Kari express gratitude and give thanks, and there may even be a surprise! Joe and Kari have ranked their top hits of the 80's and now it's time to see what came out on top!
Episode 99: Joe and Kari are back! Big things are happening on the podcast, and as promised, they have a brand new Top 40 of the 80's - time to see who made the cut this time around!! Joe and Kari discuss the movers and shakers and compare notes. Kari's goth tendencies emerge while Joe stays the course with his Top 40 hits. They're counting them down from number 40 to number 21. If your faves don't get discussed this go-round, they may appear in part two!! Keep your feet on the ground, and keep listening to Hey! Remember the 80's?!
Episode 98: School is in session! Up first is a vocabulary lesson!! What does it mean when country goes pop? That would be Countrypolitan -- think Dolly Parton, Eddie Rabbit, and Juice Newton. Sophisti-pop refers to Style Council and Simply Red, among others. You'll also get a couple of history lessons in there.
Screamer of the Week: Friend of the podcast Charlie introduced us to WLIR, the famous New Wave radio station that broke some pretty amazing 80's acts. Kari goes full rockabilly in this week's episode. Cut some tiny bangs and tune in!
Episode 97: Cars Show: We left it up to you, the listeners, on whose hits we should rank next, and The Cars cruised on into the pole position. These power-pop champions from Boston had a plethora of Top 40 hits in the 80's, and Kari and Joe ranked them all. You Might Think you know which song gets the highest grade, but your hosts just might Shake it Up and surprise you!
Just a Bit Outside: You guys, I'm not even gonna lie to you here...one of these Top 40 outliers is a real stinker (and if you ask Joe -- they both are!!)
Episode 96: Joe and Kari welcome a very special guest: Charlie from Charlie's 80's Attic! You've heard us mention Charlie's great 80's station before, and we've finally invited him to sit down and chat. We wanted to know exactly where Charlie's love of 80's music came from, and how he decided to start his own station. We also asked him to run down his TOP 5 songs from the 80's! Charlie shares some great insight and memories on some beloved tunes from our favorite decade, and shares some news on what's next for Charlie's 80's Attic.
Special thanks to Charlie for joining us, and of course you can find out more info (and tune in) at http://www.charlies80sattic.com .
Let's all get "Swept Away" with a new installment of "That's What Friends Are For"! Which 80's superstars lent a hand to their famous friends in the studio? Daryl Hall, Lou Gramm, and Jeff Lynne, for starters! Amazingly, Phil Collins sits this one out as he finds a backbone and tells his famous friend "I don't think so, honey!"
Next up is “Oh, Canada”! Who had the most Canadian hits in the 80's? It's NOT who you would think! Put your sunglasses on nocturnally and join Joe and Kari up North, eh!
Episode 94: Dear Loyal Listeners: Has there ever been a better moment to go BACK IN TIME?? Why not jump in the DeLorean and peep what's topping the charts on this week in 1984? We've got a real mixed bag for you this time: some Pretty Boy Pop, some pseudo-Prog Rock, a little smooth R&B, pioneering Hip Hop, and, as always, Paul Young. // How about the first Songs That Time Forgot segment of 2021?? Joe brings a Canadian staple to the table, while Kari calls to order the first meeting of the We Love Scritti Politti Committee.
Episode 93: Happy New Year to all our loyal listeners and new listeners alike! Let's all say Goodbye to You, 2020, with some 80's songs that articulate our feelings about the year that just ended. // Even though we are Just a Bit Inside of the new year, let's take a look at two songs that were Just a Bit Outside of the Top 40 in early 1980 - a song from a beloved R&B group, and one from a Teen Idol that Kari has opinions about. Kari has opinions, y'all! New Year, Same Kari!
Episode 92: Look! Up in the sky! Faster than a speeding bullet! Able to play both Live Aid shows in different continents on a single day! It's Superman....er, Phil! Yes, we've teased this for a bit now, and it's time to discuss the Live Aid contributions of one Mr. Phil Collins. Drumming, singing, playing the piano with slippery fingers, reuniting Led Zeppelin, and general Cher-wrangling -- our hero was tasked with many duties. Find out if he was successful! // Squeeze Play -- it's the name of a throwaway pricing game on The Price Is Right, and it's also a segment on HRT80s. Flip the Hourglass over and spend some time learning about this influential UK act!
Episode 91: The holidays are here, and even though there is a lot of uncertainty in 2020, one thing is for sure -- a Christmas Number One is still a big deal in the UK! It's time for a closer look at all those songs that hit number one during Christmas in the 80's! The usual suspects are here (Band Aid, Shakin' Stevens?), as well as a group of schoolchildren that want you to know there's nothing like a Grandma! // Quiz: How well does Joe know One Hit Wonders that peaked in December? Christmas is all around in Episode 91!
Episode 90: Joe and Kari had a ton of fun with the celebration of Episodes 80-89 but now it's time for our regularly scheduled programming. First up, since Joe and Kari were together and were able to watch the Live Aid DVD, it's time to discuss the acts that absolutely nailed it (and those that should've checked out the weather forecast before hitting the stage). // Coming Around Again -- one of our FAVORITE segments is back, so Relax...Pause, and then gather yourself to hear about some gems that hit the charts twice // Christmas Time is here, and there are STILL some great 80's Christmas songs out there to be discovered, as well as one or two lumps of coal.
Ep. 89: Joe are Kari are back to wrap up their celebration of 80+ episodes with a look at the final year of the decade. Which artists ended up at Number 89 on the year end charts? A former Miss America that you've surely heard of, and a UK veteran that sang the theme for a "Orange is the New Black" prototype, sort of? // Two acts debuted in the Top 40 in 1989, a Forever Young R&B superstar, and a beloved Swedish duo that taught us to Listen to our Hearts. Look sharp, a new episode is headed your way!
Ep. 88: You know the drill by now - Episode 88 means we are discussing all things 1988!! Some interesting songs landed at number 88 on the various year end charts, including the best cover song of all time?? You be the judge! // Kylie Minogue debuted in the Top 40 in 1988, so Joe takes a look at how she got there. Kari opted out of discussing NKOTB and does a complete 180 to discuss buzzy acts that showed up in Billboard's Modern Rock charts. Stop shoegazing and tune in!!
Episode 87 is here! Time to discuss ALL things 1987, Friends! What songs ended up at number 87 on the year end charts -- a podcast fave, but also a newcomer that you may not remember by name, but you DEFINITELY remember the Heinz commercial (How YOU doin??). // Two acts that debuted in the Top 40 in 1987 couldn't BE more different: REM and Salt-N-Pepa. Which one gets Patrick Stewart most excited? Tune in and find out!!
Episode 86: Joe and Kari are back with their celebration of 80+ episodes, and they are here to discuss all things -- you guessed it -- 1986! They've brought in the big guns: Friend of the Podcast Tom!! First, a look at the songs that ended up at Number 86 on the year-end charts. Lisa Lisa brought in her friends as well -- about 20 of them!! // Our look at artists that debuted in the Top 40 continues with 1986 darlings Janet Jackson and Bruce (Mr. Hornsby, if you're nasty). // Kari surprises Joe and Tom with a quiz on those songs that didn't quite make the top of the charts in 1986 (not a great year for people with the last name Taylor).
Episode 85: Our celebration continues with all things 1985! First up is a look at the songs that landed at number 85 on the year end charts on Billboard and Cashbox -- a song that seems to follow Joe and Kari everywhere they go, and a song inspired by a Paul Newman movie. // 1985 was the year of Live Aid -- do you remember where you were when this global event aired? Bob Geldof used his pull to get everyone and their mother involved, for better or worse! One of the acts on stage was Simple Minds, who also made their Top 40 debut in 1985. If you are Alive and Kicking, tune in!!
Episode 84: All right careless whisperers, for those keeping score at home, we have made it to Episode 84! And this episode is a big one! First up, we've got the songs that ended up at Number 84 on the year end charts! Next is a closer look at some acts that debuted on the Top 40 in 1984: Wham! and New Edition might seem like they have nothing in common, but after this episode, you may be saying "I don't think so, honey!!" // Video Killed the Rock Tracks Chart Star: The demise of Billy Squier (did I spell it right, Billy?) came about in 1984 in one fell (and pink) swoop.
Episode 83: The celebration continues! This episode is all about 1983! Which songs ended up at number 83 on the year end Billboard and Cashbox charts? // Two huge 80's acts debuted on the Top 40 of the Hot 100 in 1983 and Joe and Kari are taking a deep dive into INXS and Duran Duran! Pretty boys, yes, but they made a huge impact on the charts with some genuine bangers!! // Who's Holding Phil Now? -- Phil Collins obviously did not rest in 1983, either! He did some behind the scenes work with a British up-and-comer (with help from an old friend).
Episode 82: Joe and Kari are continuing their closer look at each year of the 80's, and since this is Episode 82, you will hear all about (you guessed it) 1982! First, find out which songs ended up at number 82 on the year-end lists! // Kari's pick for 1982 is a female-fronted band that Casey Kasem seemed to be enamored with, while Joe's pick is the Band that Launched a Thousand Haircuts. // Top of the Pops - The '82 celebration doesn't stop in the USA....let's see what was Shakin' in the UK in 1982.
Episode 81: Joe and Kari are celebrating 80+ episodes with a special look at 1981! What was number 81 on the year-end charts in 1981? Grab a cup of Joe and five packs of cigarettes (a day!) and dig into some tunes by ELO (hold the O) and Bob Seger! // Some very special acts debuted in the Top 40 in 1981, and Joe and Kari are here to shine a light on a couple of them. // QUIZ: The time has finally come for KARI to get quizzed on an ICONIC moment in 80's history. Video Killed the Radio Star, but did it kill Kari's chances to get a passing grade?
Episode 80: Well, friends -- we made it to 80 episodes! We wanted to celebrate in a special way, so each episode from 80 to 89 will focus on that specific year in our favorite decade! That being said....let's get 1980 out of the way! :) It's no secret that 1980 is our least favorite year of the 80's, but let's focus on the positive! There are a couple of acts that debuted in the Top 40 of the Hot 100 in 1980, so let's see what kind of impact they had. // QUIZ: How many 1980 One Hit Wonders can Joe guess? (Hint: Not many).
Episode 79: Summer may be over, but Joe and Kari are still dancing! Join them as they look at some more Dance Club Chart achievements of the 80's. Some of these artists have not gotten their due, and (well, most of them) deserve another look! Put on your boogie shoes! // Who's Holding Phil Now (theme song to come): Yes, there are even MORE stories of Phil in the stu-stu-studio with some non-Genesis peeps, including a former Dancing Queen who may even be a bigger Phil stan than Friend of the Podcast Yael!
Episode 78 is here! Joe and Kari FINALLY discuss the new MTV documentary. Did it live up to the hype?? // Joe and Kari welcome a special guest: Friend of the Podcast (and Joe's sister) Valerie! Val is here to share her favorite songs of 1989! You know you want to hear some embarrassing stories involving Joe's love of the B-52’s! Joe and Kari also discuss some of their faves from this pivotal year. // Valerie sticks around to show love to a Song That Time Forgot!
Episode 77: You know you want to know which song won the R&B Song of the Summer: 80's Edition, and the time has come! // Then it's finally time for Ranking the Hits: Rick Springfield! Friend of the podcast Valerie predicted "Jessie's Girl" would be our number one choice, was she right? Or will it be "Born in the USA" ... oh wait, that's a song by Bruce Springsteen! Our bad. // Know Your Karis: Not too many 80's artists named Kari (Our apologies to Tony Carey), so here's a look at those 80's hits with the name Kari in the title (even if it's spelled the "wrong" way)
Episode 76: It's time for one of Joe's favorite segments: Coming Around Again! Spoiler alert: Eddie and the Cruisers was not a real band!! "On the Dark Side" was a huge hit in the 80's, but not the first time it was released! You can thank HBO and VHS for the resurgence. And you'll never guess who was behind the success of "No One is to Blame" (but okay you may have known that the tireless Phil Collins had something to do with it). // Just a Bit Outside: Two LEGENDS had some early-80s flops on the chart, so it's time to give these tunes their due! A flame-haired powerhouse and a suave James Bond-type found themselves on the bottom half of the Hot 100, but don't worry, Grammy Awards and Pepsi ads await!!
Episode 75: We lost an episode due to a power outage and poor planning, but that's not going to stop HRT80s!! We did "Know Your Pauls" way back in episode 2, and we are bringing it back, this time as "Know Your Joes"!! You know the songs, but did you know the Joe that was providing the vocals? If not, blame Sergio Mendes! // Quiz Time! One Hit Wonders that begin with the letter J. Can Joe get a passing grade?? Tune in to find out!
Episode 74: Dance Fever! Time to take a closer look at the Billboard Dance Charts, and Joe and Kari are your dancing queens! What songs were DJs spinning at clubs across the country in the 80’s? If you guessed Madonna (all tracks), you’re not wrong! But there were some other gems topping the dance charts: Thompson Twins, Michael Jackson, and Kari’s fave — Buffalo Stance by Neneh Cherry. // Who’s Holding Phil Now? It may be an impossible task, but Joe and Kari are out to discover just how many different acts Phil Collins assisted in the studio during the 80’s. Yo man what do you expect, the guy’s a gigolo, man? Y’know wut I mean? Uhh.
Episode 73: The moment Joe and Kari have been waiting for has finally arrived! The Go-Go's Documentary aired on Showtime, and your hosts drop a little review in the tidbits. Did the doc live up to the hype?? // Ranking the Hits: Tina Turner -- Do you think you know which of Tina's Top 40 hits make the top of the list? Show some respect and find out which song is The Best!! Two People voted on their faves and you Better Be Good to Joe and Kari, even if they didn't pick your faves!! // Songs that Time Forgot: A Beatles Cover Band and some symphonic pioneers are the choices in this episode.
Episode 72: For the first time in HRT80's history, Joe and Kari welcome a special guest! Who can it be now? Well, it is none other than "Friend of the Podcast" Michael! He is here to help your hosts run down the winners of the R&B Song of the Summer 80's Edition. And since he here, we may as well check out his Top 5 Songs of the 80's. But that's not all, no trip to the HRT80's studios is complete without a pop quiz!
Episode 71: Are you ready for more 80's S.O.S/R&B (that's Song of the Summer R&B Edition for those in the know!) We've got songs for your Friday night party, your romantic Summer evening with your boo, bustin' some ghosts, and everything in between!! 1988 and 1989 are up for debate! // Coming Around Again -- sometimes a song just needs to chart twice! And sometimes we don't know why!! Moving Pictures and the Police plead their cases to the Billboard gods.
Episode 70: No poll results and no tidbits at the top of the show? Must be a full moon! Rolling on through the R&B Songs of the Summer, we have not one song but TWO by Janet (That's Miss Jackson to you nasty boys, and don't forget her middle name is Privacy....and she also somehow states that Control is her last name...maybe there's a hyphen in there??) // Just a Bit Outside takes a closer look at a song that Rod Stewart was freakin' obsessed with, and then there's even MORE Rod Stewart in // Trash or Treasure??
Episode 69
Episode 68: Joe and Kari are back to discuss the number one hits on the R&B chart during the summers of 1982 and 1983. We've got the Queen of Soul and the Queen of Disco in the mix, among others. Which songs will make the cut? // That's Not a Number One...THIS Is a Number One: Time to travel down under in honor of our loyal listener Claire to discuss some songs that hit the Australian charts in the eighties, including the Greatest Song in New Zealand's history? Tune in!
Episode 67: It's Summertime! Last year, we discussed all those perfect Summer songs that topped the pop charts in the 80's, and this year, we are going to check out what was on the top of the R&B charts! 1980 and 1981 are first up, naturally, so hop on the Double Dutch Bus and check it izz-out! // Songs that Time Forgot -- Okay, Kari. Do you love Rod Stewart? Or do you despise him? So much PASSION over an 80's icon, let's get to the bottom of this! On the other end of the spectrum, we discuss an act that only a mother could love. Well, Molly Ringwald's mother anyway. Tune in!!
Episode 66: In this episode, your hosts take a closer look at the R&B charts in the 80's. You'll never guess who had the most Number Ones! Okay, maybe you will, but the runner-up may surprise you! Joe and Kari take a look at some other achievements on the chart, and spotlight a couple of their faves. // Just A Bit Outside: For a Dollar, name an obscure UK band whose only charting US single peaked at 74!
Episode 65: Tonight, Tonight, Tonight, Joe and Kari are headed to the Land of Confusion to discuss all things Genesis! Your Man on the Corner (Joe) gets In Too Deep with Kari as they rank their favorite Genesis Top 40 hits of the 80’s. Will the two hosts see eye to eye, or will there be some Misunderstanding? Don’t be (Paper)Late to the discussion or you will miss the history of Genesis (in a nutshell). If you miss this one, you’re basically Throwing it All Away. That’s All.
Episode 64 is here! Welcome to all our listeners from all points on the compass!
Kari and Joe discuss some fun facts from the recent top 2,500 song countdown from 1982 to 1991 on the https://thefoxoldies.com . They review why The Talking Heads made it big on MTV, the genesis of Aretha's Zooming, discuss how Vanessa Williams missed out on a hit song, why a song was written for a tennis legend to learn some guitar licks, and how a song from 1984 became the subject of a TikTok meme.
Next, it is Just a Bit Outside; the segment which delves into songs which just missed the Top 40. Your hosts discuss a classic Parrotheads anthem and a song from Jennifer Warnes which wasn't "Up Where We Belong" or "I've Had the Time of My Life".
Be sure to check out our Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/HRT80s for fun video clips, additional posts, and listener polls!
As always, be kind to yourself, be kind to others, and thanks for listening.
Hope everyone made the most of their Memorial Day Weekend; now it is time to get back to "reality".
In Episode 63, Kari and Joe re-visit Kari's hometown independent record store in "Songs from the Electric Fetus" to check out some "alternative" hits of the 80's. First, it is the battle of the umlauts: Hüsker Dü and pre-swan dress Björk. Then, Kari discusses being an angsty youth and connecting with Morrissey while Joe talks about Kate Bush, loyalty, and the Russians.
Since air travel is almost non-existent right now, Kari and Joe virtually visit the UK to see what was on the Top of the Pops this week in 1988. Will the singles from the double A-side make it "home" to the U.S. in their carry-ons or will they left behind because they are they all "wet (wet, wet)"?
In Songs that Time Forgot, Kari talks about a Night Ranger song from 1985. Check out to see if it is as good as Sister Christian and find out who was an unlikely fan. Joe talks about an underrated Police song which conjured up the Loch Ness Monster.
As always, be kind, be safe, and thanks for listening!
Episode 62: Intro, Polls, Tidbits - you know the drill! Then it's time for Joe's favorite segment: Coming Around Again! Some artists and record execs just aren't satisfied with their chart placement, and take matters into their own hands!! Find out how they fared the second time around. // Home - it's where we are spending all our time (in most cases), so now's as good a time as any to discuss some 80's hits with "Home" in the title! Tune in! (from home)
Welcome back everyone!
Reminder: https://thefoxoldies.com is holding their huge countdown of the top 1000 songs from 1982 - 1991 starting 5/18!
Back In Time: A look back at songs that were topping all sorts of charts in May 1986! From familiar acts like Robert Palmer and Pet Shop Boys, to someone or something called Bruce & Bongo. // Just A Bit Outside takes a magnifying glass to the bottom end of the Hot 100. A scary naming band with a bland tune, and a San Fran rock band wants to let you know "I'm Alive"
Another bonus episode for y'all! Joe and Kari dish on new ways to satisfy their hunger for more 80's music content. Will their discovery lead to an endorsement deal with Sonos?
Dust off your leg warmers and headbands; it's time to get quizzical! Kari again tests Joe's knowledge of One Hit Wonders. Today's quiz is brought to you by the letters E, F, and G and the number 11. Will Joe be victorious or will Kari reign supreme? Only time will tell!
Be sure to check out http://www.facebook.com/hrt80s for more fun.
Episode 59 is here, and if you were wondering, "Joe and Kari haven't discussed cover songs in a while" then you might be psychic! Pop, R&B, and "alternative": it's all here! And yes, Robert Palmer is brought up once again (he sure loved a good cover). // What are we going to do with all this "Time" on our hands? Might as well discuss 80's hits that involve "Time" in some way (Editor's note - kicking myself thinking how we didn't pick "Too Much Time on My Hands" by Styx). Tune in, pour yourself a margarita to celebrate Cinco de Mayo, and see if Joe and Kari discuss your favorite 80's song about "time" and let us know what we missed! Again, we are aware that we dropped the ball on Styx.
Episode 58: They've been talking about it for months, and the moment is finally here. Joe and Kari watched Valley Girl, and they have opinions. But first the facts: tidbits about the filming of the movie, and a discussion about the music that appears in it. From the Plimsouls to Sparks to Josie Cotton (hello, PTA!), no stone is left unturned, even the songs that DIDN'T appear in the film at the last minute but ended up in the credits! Who was running this show!!? Martha Coolidge was, and she deserves respect. Tune in and get all the Valley Girl info you'll ever need.
Episode 57 is here! This week, Joe and Kari spark a conversation about some 80's songs that deal with the Devil's Lettuce aka marijuana. Only one song made the US Top 40 (after a bit of cleaning up), but the rest were more successful in the UK of have become cult faves // New Segment Alert! You've heard Joe and Kari discuss UK hits in the "Top of the Pops" segment. Well, get ready for some Australian chart toppers in "That's Not a Number One...THIS is a Number One".
Bonus episode for all you 80's lovers. Just one big tidbit this time (Valley Girl and it's most recent incarnation), then it's time for a QUIZ! Joe gets his knowledge on TWO HIT WONDERS tested. Country / R&B / Rock/ -- it's all here!
Joe and Kari couldn't decide which seminal female band to highlight on this edition of Ranking the Hits, so this week, you get TWO! In the early 80's, the Go-Go's walked so the Bangles could run, but I guess they chose to walk (down your street, like an Egyptian, etc). Find out which Top 40 hit lands at the top of Joe and Kari's lists. So stop splashing around in that fountain and tune in!! // Just a Bit Outside -- listen as Joe and Kari absolutely lose their minds over a minor hit that got some help from the most obvious of places: a Brazilian Soap Opera.
Episode 54 is here! Joe and Kari are bringing you Unsung Heroes. Sade: is it a band, is it a woman, and just how exactly is it supposed to be pronounced?? Find out their beginnings and how all their 80's hits fared in the Hot 100. Kari shines a spotlight on the B-52's. Sure you know Love Shack and Roam from the tail end of the decade, but what were they up to before those songs hit the charts? // Songs that Time Forgot: a crossover country hit, and a solo song from that OTHER member of Styx.
Hey all you 80's lovers, we've got another bonus episode for you. Episode 53 is here! This special episode is a mash-up of two of our regular segments: Back In Time and Top of the Pops. This week, we're going back to this week in 1980 to highlight what was hitting the UK Top Singles chart. You'll see some familiar faces (Peter Gabriel, The Jam), as well as some names Joe and Kari are hearing for the first time. Grab your fish and chips and head across the pond with your hosts!
Episode 52 is here, and so is Lionel Richie, Michael Jackson, Bruce Springsteen, and...Dan Ackroyd?! Who invited him to the recording of the biggest event of the 80's? That's right, it's time to dive into the making of "We Are the World". Find out how this mega-hit was made, and why it was almost brought down by Cyndi Lauper's costume jewelry! // Quiz Time! Kari challenges Joe once again, and this One Hit Wonder quiz was brought to you by the letter D.
Episode 51: Attention all you HRT80s fans, time for a bonus episode!! This time, we asked the listeners to call up the request line and DEMAND to hear facts about the songs YOU want to hear about! It's a real hodgepodge this week, but isn't that what 80's music is all about? You'll get hits by Genesis, Rick Springfield, Calloway, and tons more!! But that's not all! You'll also get some alternative gems from The Cure, Kraftwerk, and New Order! So act now, and get all the 80's info you'll EVER need!*
*until the next episode
How is Hey! Remember the 80's? like Sally O'Malley? We both like to kick, stretch, and kick. And we're both 50! Fifty episodes, ladies and gentlemen. Thank you to our listeners who made this possible. Joe and Kari have had an absolute blast sharing our 80's music opinions. As a special gift to you (and not at all because Coronavirus got us all trapped in our houses), we are releasing this episode a day early! Joe and Kari are going to discuss the songs that ended up at number 50 on the year-end charts (Billboard and Cash Box). All your faves are here!! // Just a Bit Outside: An R&B gem that you may not remember!!!
Episode 49: Did Kari make it back from Europe unscathed? Jury's still out, folks, but you can bet we've got a boatload of tidbits to discuss! // Back In Time: Joe and Kari go back to 1981, when a plucky blonde country singer was riding high on the pop charts. What was topping the other charts at this time? Tune in and find out! /// Songs That Time Forgot: Kari picks an under-the-radar hit from the Queen of Soul, while Joe holds a Meeting in the Ladies' Room. Be back real soon!
Ep. 48: It's time for one of Joe's favorite segments: Coming Around Again. Ever wonder why a song gets a second chance on the charts? Joe and Kari dig up some dirt on some 80's gems and uncover their unlikely paths to success, one of which may include Ladysmith Black Mambazo. // QUIZ TIME! Does Joe fare better than he did on the last few quizzes? Tune in and find out!!
While Kari is galavanting around in Europe, Joe has taken over the Facebook page. Be sure to check out http://www.facebook.com/hrt80s to see what mischief Joe gets into while Kari is away!
Episode 47: Hey! Remember the 80's? goes International! In celebration of Kari's upcoming trip to Europe, your hosts will take a look at some chart toppers from each country on the trip: France, Germany, Czechoslovakia, and Poland. You can bet there will be some Billy Joel on there! // Just a Bit Outside: Your look at songs that didn't quite hit the Top 40. Unfortunately, we've got a couple of stinkers this week. Look, some of these songs didn't become hits for a reason.
Episode 46: Welcome back, everyone. // Tidbits! Get your tidbits, here! A new Huey Lewis and The News EP recently dropped; and it is unanimous, they haven’t missed a beat! // That’s What Friends Are For — Joe and Kari discuss songs by some artists who got a little help from their famous friends...albeit some of those famous friends were more generous with their vocal help than others. // Kari tries to stump Joe with another One Hit Wonder quiz; brought to you (again) by the letter C and the number 4. Is she successful? Only time will tell. // Grab your Cabbage Patch Kid and get ready to have some fun! // Be sure to visit us at www.facebook.com/hrt80s where it is always Burger Time!
Episode 46: That’s What Friends Are For // One Hit Wonders (letter C)
Episode 45: Another jam-packed episode for you HRT80’s fanatics!! Your hosts are back together and are sharing one mic. First up: Tidbits!! A new Huey Lewis article by one of Joe and Kari’s favorite music critics, a very special review of a beloved 80’s movie which may prove to be divisive, and your hosts venture out to the the suburbs. // Ranking the Hits of Pat Benatar — Pat had 15 Top 40 hits in the 80’s, but which were Joe and Kari’s faves? They discuss the good, the bad, and the Legend of Billie Jean. // Just a Bit Outside: HRT80’s newest segment now has a name (Thank you, Michael and Twitter)! Another look at an 80’s tune that almost became a Top 40 hit!
Episode 44: It's been one year of Hey! Remember the 80's! Come celebrate with Joe and Kari! First in Tidbits: two movies (Footloose and a sketchy Madonna documentary). The Filthy 15 -- Ever wonder why some of your favorite albums contain a Parental Advisory warning? We have these 15 songs (and a group of Washington Wives) to thank! Some songs were rightfully chosen, while some others were a bit perplexing. // New Segment Alert: A look at some songs from the Hot 100 that didn't quite make it to the Top 40, but deserve a closer look anyway.
Ep. 43: Who wants Tidbits? Of course we have tidbits this week: Songwriters Hall of Fame inductees, a great series about every number one hit, and a fun item involving Bruce Springsteen and the Pointer Sisters. // Back in Time: 1987 -- what a hodge podge of hits!! Pop, Adult Contemporary, R&B -- It's all here! Jump in the time machine and pretend you are scanning the dial of your favorite radio stations from back in the day. // Songs that Time Forgot: Kari's pick is a forgotten gem from one of Cyndi Lauper's favorite singer-songwriters, while Joe takes a gander at what was happening with Jody Watley before she was Looking for a New Love. Hasta la vista, baby!
Episode 42: Get your tidbits here! Find out which 80's artists will be inducted in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame (and which ones got snubbed) // One Hit Wonders: They hit the charts for one glorious moment and their names start with the letter B, and that's about all they have in common. Or is it? // Top of the Pops: The US charts didn't always line up with what was hitting number one across the pond. Sometimes that was a good thing. Go ahead and make a heavy-handed mimosa and tune in!
Episode 41: First things first -- Tidbits (Movie Edition). Kari weighs in on the Linda Ronstadt doc, while Joe uncovers some childhood issues by watching La Bamba for the first time as an adult. // Coming Around Again -- songs so nice, the record label decided to release 'em twice! Did you catch them on the first go round?? // Pop Quiz! -- Kari tries to stump Joe with some more One Hit Wonders! Does he get a passing grade??
Episode 40: Happy New Year to all you HRT80s listeners! Episode 40 is here, which is apt because the 80's are now 40!! First things first, Joe and Kari discuss the Sirius Big 1000 countdown that's been airing lately, and your hosts are shook by a recent development! // That's What Friends Are For: Joe and Kari discuss 80's musicians that helped their friends along the way, and this time, they focus on a very special friend, George Michael, who helped many talented musicians even at the height of his fame! // Songs That Time Forgot: Joe spotlights a Top 40 hit from one of the most respected vocalists of her time, while Kari (via Freddy Kruger) picks some alt-rock pioneers.
Episode 39: Merry Christmas, y'all: The Ultimate 80's Christmas Music episode is here! Joe and Kari take a deep dive into "A Very Special Christmas". All your fave 80's musicians contributed: Madonna, Bruce, Alison Moyet. There may have been blackmail material involved! // What better way to celebrate the holidays than with "Leave it in the 80's", where your hosts explain why an 80's hit should no longer be celebrated. Join us in the drunk tank! // Thanks for all of your 80's holiday song suggestions. Joe and Kari discuss as many as possible while trying to stay under the 60-minute mark!
Episode 38: First up, some info on a few interesting music documentaries. Will we ever see this supposed Go-Go’s documentary on Showtime? Our lips are sealed. // Holiday Music: 80’s Edition Part 1 (let’s just from now on assume every segment could be subtitled “80’s Edition”). We got some great recommendations on 80’s Christmas songs from our listeners on FB. Joe and Kari discuss some of their personal faves, as well as the ones that hit the Hot 100. Plus: Everything you could ever want to know about Do They Know It’s Christmas!
Episode 37: This week in Tidbits - the new Netflix docu-series "The Movies that Made Us". Are you watching?? // Unsung Heroes: We take it behind the boards this time and discuss the career of super-producer Nile Rodgers. He's the man responsible for your favorite songs by Madonna, Duran Duran, David Bowie, to mention just a few! // Quiz: Yes, Kari is the Quizmaster once again. She flips the script on Joe and puts him to the test on his knowledge of TWO-hit wonders. Does he get a passing grade? Tune in and find out!
Episode 36: You know the drill: poll results, tidbits, corrections (we're not professionals!). // Covers: That's right, we're STILL talking about covers, because there were a lot of them hitting the charts in the 80's (266, to be exact). Joe and Kari discuss some more famous 80's songs that were either covers, or were covered somewhere down the line. // Let's Check the Clock: Think you know the longest and shortest top 40 hits from the 80's? You will after this segment! // Songs That Time Forgot - Covers Edition! Kari's throwback is a throwback itself (I just got dizzy typing that), and I hope you packed enough clothes because we're actually staying for Two Nights in Bangkok!
Episode 35: We begin with a quick update on polls, and then check in with Joe Christopher: Music Plagiarism Detective! Does Pablo Cruise have a case again recently crowned Artist of the Decade Taylor Swift? Weigh in online! // Joe and Kari go "Back in Time" all the way to 1988, where they check out the number one songs on the various charts! // Songs from the Electric Fetus: We'll also check out the oddities at the top of the Modern Rock Chart from 1988.
Episode 34: First up, Tidbits! Which Motley Crue video nearly "broke" MTV's request show? // New Segment Alert: That's What Friends Are For, where Joe and Kari discuss famous 80's artists that did a few favors by singing backup for their friends. Was it all worth it? // Quiz Time: Part 2 of Kari's One Hit Wonders quiz for Joe. Does Joe have what it takes to identify these One Hit Wonders that begin with the letter B? Don't "B" late to listen to the newest episode!!
*Disclaimer: Sorry for the poor sound quality on Joe's end. It won't happen again!
Episode 33: You want tidbits? You got 'em! More tidbits than you can shake a stick at, but why would anybody shake a stick at anything in this day and age? Doesn't make sense. Joe and Kari have a lot to discuss this week: ELO, World Series of Pop Music, and the new film Last Christmas, among other things. // Time to do a deep dive on the man responsible for this podcast: Casey Kasem! Time to learn about the man behind the countdown, as well as the genesis of AT40. Then, your hosts recount some wacky stuff they've heard over the years on American Top 40. // Songs that Time Forgot: Some new names on the podcast this week with some forgotten gems that you'll need to add to your playlists!
Episode 32: Reviews Galore! Joe and Kari issue a special report from the John Waite concert in Milwaukee. Unfortunately, they weren't able to get to the bottom of the "Missing You" / Nina Blackwood controversy, but they will give you the rundown of the performance. More reviews from Kari: a couple of 80's-related documentaries from the Milwaukee Film Fest. // New segment alert: Coming Around Again, a look at some hits that were re-released (for whatever reason) and made it even bigger on the charts with their second go-round.
Episode 31: No poll results to announce this week, but fear not, for there are multiple Tidbits to report, including one "Correction" that will put the Pointer Sisters back in your good graces. // Joe and Kari go "Back in Time" and take a look at what was on top on ALL the different charts on this week in 1982: Dance, R&B, Country, Adult Contemporary, no musical stone is left unturned. // Time for more "Covers" of 80's songs (or songs that were popular in the 80's that we actually covers. Joe and Kari discover that a fave of the podcast was actually a cover, and they uncover an 80's gem that should never have been covered at all.
Episode 30 is here! Time to find out the winner of Song of the Summer: 80's Edition! Will Huey Lewis and the News take it with "Power of Love" or will Whitney Houston win the crown with "I Wanna Dance with Somebody"? // Unsung Heroes: Joe and Kari's picks for those 80's artists that never quite got their due. This week: Pointer Sisters and Mr. Mister. // POP QUIZ: Kari put together a delightful quiz for Joe, the topic is One Hit Wonders. Does Joe move to the head of the class, or is he stuck with the dunce's cap? Tune in to find out!
Episode 29 begins with an update on Song of the Summer: 80's Edition. No winner just yet, so go out and VOTE!! // Songs From the Electric Fetus: Joe and Kari's picks for "alternative" (or whatever it was called then) songs from the 80's. // TOP OF THE POPS: A look at some songs that were topping the UK charts in the 80's. Some weird stuff happening here! // Songs That Time Forgot: A former Go-Go girl links up with a former Beatle for an almost-Top 10 hit! And a song by Lisa Lisa and Full Force with Cult Jam and the Funky Bunch and the Company and a Partridge in a Pear Tree.
Episode 28 begins with a quick update on the Song of the Summer: 80's Edition poll. Don't forget to vote! // Did Joe just really say "I love SPORTS" or are you hallucinating? Oh! Joe and Kari are discussing all the top 40 hits by Huey Lewis and the News! Will there be horns? Of course! // A very special wedding is approaching, and so a Very Special Segment appears! Joe and Kari discuss their favorite LOVE SONGS! Time to throw some rice at Anita Baker and Air Supply!
Episode 27: Thanks for voting in the polls for Song of the Summer: 80's Edition. Joe and Kari are one step closer to determining the victor! Find out which songs passed the first round of voting and how a winner will be chosen. Then, get ready for a topic that literally NO ONE has asked for: XANADU! If you haven't seen the movie yet, you may want to brush up on this "classic" before listening to this episode. One host loved the movie, and one despises it. Can you guess which is which?? Even if you hate the movie (which is statistically probable), you have to love the soundtrack!
Episode 26: Our dive into Song of the Summer: 80's Edition continues. Joe and Kari wrap up the decade with a look at the songs that ruled the airwaves in the summers of 1988 and 1989. Quite a few ballads in this bunch (if that's your thing) -- and a couple up-tempo numbers -- from some real 80's heavyweights (also, Martika). // Next up, Kari and Joe hop across the pond in "Top of the Pops" to see what was hitting the UK charts in the 80's.
Episode 25 is here, and for the very first time, your hosts Joe and Kari are actually in the same room at the same time! It's a "Hey! Remember the 80's?" first! First up, a few "tidbits" to get you started, then it's back to Songs of the Summer - 80's edition. We are up to 1986 and 1987: which summer song was your fave? Don't forget to vote on Facebook! // Songs That Time Forgot : Looks like Joe and Kari both went full on "Dad Rock" with these choices here. Is there a band more "Dad Rock" than Genesis? Yes!
Episode 24: Kari and Joe are chugging along in their dive into the Ultimate Song of the Summer (80's Edition)! This episode, they take a look into 1984 and 1985. Can they put aside their opinions and take an objective look into what makes a song "Summerworthy?" Spoiler alert: YES! Don't forget to vote on FB and Twitter! // A new segment debuts -- "Songs from the Electric Fetus" -- as your host explore 80's songs under the shadow of the night. Alt-rock / Modern Rock songs are up for discussion: the top modern rock songs from the inaugural Billboard chart!
Episode 23 is here! Joe and Kari get right into the action this week, picking up where they left off last time: Songs of the Summer 1980's Edition. Oh wait, Joe does have some 80's Tidbits after all! Anyway, summer hits from 1982 and 1983 are discussed. And then the Quizzer becomes the Quizzee (not sure those are actual words, but in any case, Kari surprises Joe with a pop quiz). Listen in and don't forget to vote on Facebook for your favorite Summer Songs of '82 and '83!
This week on your favorite 80s music podcast, Joe shares an 80s-related tidbit from a concert he attended recently. Then it's on to part one in a series looking back at the SONG OF THE SUMMER for each year in the 80s! This week Joe and Kari tackle 1980 and 1981 and their friendship is tested!!! They narrow it down to two choices for each year, but you - THE MIGHTY LISTENERS - get to make the ultimate decision so get on over to the facebook page and weigh in!! Then, as promised, Joe puts Kari's knowledge of number 2s (eww, not like that) to the test. Download this episode now, jerky.
Episode 21: Did you miss Kari and Joe? Well, they are back with their special brand of crazy 80s music talk! They catch up on important life events up top, then discuss a lil' tidbit about fan "cons" and whether they would ever attend one about the 80s. Then it's a quick trip... BACK IN TIME to the year 1988 and luckily they land right near a listing of that week's Billboard Top Ten! Crazy how that always seems to happen. Finally, who doesn't love Songs That Time Forgot. Kari's got one that's perfect for the fun summer you're hopefully all having and Joe has one from a supergroup your dad loved, go ask him.
Episode 20: Hey! Remember the Fat Boys? They have been teasing this for months and the day has finally come...Joe and Kari finally watch "Disorderlies"! Have they been too hard on this wacky caper or does it deserve all of their ridicule? Your hosts put on their Siskel and Ebert hats and discuss. \ There is always time for "Songs That Time Forgot". Kari's pick this week is one half of a famous duo who decided to break out on his own. Where DID he find the (dream) time? Joe takes a stroll down memory lane via Jacksonville, Florida. What makes his pick so "special"; you will have to listen to find out.
Episode 19: Joe and Kari discuss a classic 80's track: "Higher Love" by Steve Winwood. Maybe you've heard a recent cover version by Miss Whitney Houston? That gets your hosts wondering: How did Whitney manage to get so many Number One hits in the 80's? If you said "Clive Davis," you're on the right track, but there was SO much more involved. Relive Whitney's glory days in this very special episode of Hey, Remember the 80's.
Episode 18: Joe and Kari start the show with some current music news that might make you think you've gone back in time to 1985! But you haven't, because that's impossible. Then it's time for Soundtrack Roundup Part 2! We've included all your favorite soundtracks from the 80's, and even some that were only available in Singapore. // Trash or Treasure: Soundtrack Edition. Last time, a Starship power ballad tested the bonds of friendship. Will you be doing the Neutron Dance with Joe? Or do you side with Kari, and hope the big one comes so we will never have to hear this song again. Don't be a sad Cameron type, tune in to the newest episode, like right now!!
Episode 17: Joe and Kari present a very special episode! Ranking the top 40 hits of a very successful act from the 80's isn't easy, but your hosts have done it with legends Hall and Oates. Maybe your fave H&O track made the cut, or perhaps you're just OUT OF TOUCH. Joe and Kari go ONE ON ONE and present their faves and give you an ADULT EDUCATION. Maybe scratch that last one. // SONGS THAT TIME FORGOT - Kari has a change of heart about a one hit wonder who you might find barking at airplanes, while Joe gets his calypso on in the most unexpected of places.
Episode 16: Covermania Part 2! We've discussed 80's hits that were actually covers once before, but we were just getting started! Joe and Kari uncover more of your faves that had a previous life on the charts. And you can't talk about cover songs without mentioning the Queen of the Covers, Ms. Laura Branigan. She travelled the whole world, collecting hits wherever she went and turning them into her own top ten hits! Maybe she was Carmen Sandiego? We'll never know! // Your hosts discuss 80's hits that were covered in the 90's and beyond. Maybe you danced to that techno cover of "Heaven" by DJ Sammy? Your secret is safe with us!!
Episode 15: History is made! Kari is on the winning side of a poll! Which 80's star helped her Strut her way to victory? Find out at the beginning of the episode! // Joe and Kari go Back In Time ... Allll the way back to 1981! The top ten from 6/13/81 is a doozy: yacht rock, medleys, and a Motown legend. You'll also be treated to not one BUT TWO Kim Carnes impressions (one is better than the other). // Leave It In the 80's: Find out which two problematic songs get cancelled by Joe and Kari. Here's a hint: they both involve the number 17.
Ep. 14: Joe and Kari are back, baby! Your hosts fill you in on what's been going on and explain their brief absence. Kari may be Nobody's Fool, but does she finally win a social media poll? Don't hold your breath! // NEW SEGMENT ALERT: Joe and Kari discuss their favorite "Unsung Heroes" of the 80's. No Madonna or MJ discussion here -- only those 80's stars who don't get their due! It's THEIR time to shine! A Scottish lass and a hard-working man from Illinois get their recognition. // SONGS THAT TIME FORGOT is back and better than ever! Scottish lass part deux, and a power pop band gets their day of rec-KIHN-ing!
Episode 13 is very lofi so please be kind!
Two lost segments will be uncovered from the deep, dark recesses of the Hey, Remember the 80s archive. First, do you want to hear Kari and Joe's first, very improvisational recording? SURE YOU DO... especially since there's a deep dive on Rod Stewart's Passion.
Next, hear some more about the Top 500 of the 80s Billboard chart with a rundown of some of the one hit wonders!
This poorly edited and technically-challenged episode brought to you by Joe's vacation!
Episode 12 begins with a few updates from Joe and Kari. Will Kari ever figure out how to work these Facebook and Twitter polls? Probably not, as she was likely cursed by some antiques. Tough break, Kari.
Special Report Time! Joe spills all the tea from the Mixtape tour. Did the New Kids On The Block have The Right Stuff? Did Debbie Gibson's performance of Lost in Your Eyes bring Joe to tears? You'll have to tune in to find out!
Go Back in Time with your hosts as they discuss the top ten hits from this week in 1985. As it turns out, some really do like it hot! And you'll spend not ONE but TWO nights in Bangkok! But check with your local travel agent to see if this ticket is refundable.
Cue the 20th Century Fox fanfare Episode 11 is here!
In this episode, we are going to discuss those EPIC soundtracks from the 80's!! Of course, we couldn't cover them ALL in just one episode (more to come later), but we discuss those soundtracks that topped the charts, as well as the beloved soundtracks that weren't even officially released at all! In any case, you can bet that Kenny Loggins was there to lend a voice.
Trash or Treasure: A much beloved (or maligned) soundtrack cut that went to NUMBER ONE!! Did it deserve to hit the top? Or should it be cancelled?? Nothing's Gonna Stop Us from debating the merits of a career-stopper from some shapeshifters from San Fran.
!!! Disorderlies Update !!! Joe is shook by a development straight out of The Godfather! Not quite as bad as finding a horse's head in your bed, but almost! Tune in!
Episode 10 is here! Kari and Joe discuss One Hit Wonders of the 80's. There seems to be some confusion about what makes a true One Hit Wonder, so your hosts make a few ground rules about the qualifications, then reveal their picks for Fave One Hit Wonder of the 80's. Then they take some listener suggestions and determine if they are a true One Hit Wonder. The usual suspects are here, but there are also some that will surprise you! And fret not, because "Songs That Time Forgot" is back to delight you with some unearthed gems by a Tween Queen of the 80's as well as some Elder Statesmen of Rock and Roll.
Everything you thought you knew about the top songs of the 80's is WRONG!! Billboard just released a new chart of the TOP 500 SONGS OF THE 80's, and Joe and Kari are here to break it down (as best they can). Who had the strongest showing? It's probably who you'd suspect, but some ICONIC artists barely made the list at all. What gives, Billboard? Join us for this in-depth look at the biggest songs of the 80's (according to a wizard, maybe?)
Joe and Kari are back, baby!! First, you'll get some poll results from the FB and Twitter pages. Has Kari been wrong her whole life, is David Lee Roth a lovable treasure? Or will she finally be on the right side of history? // Joe and Kari go "Back in Time" -- to April 15, 1989, to be exact, to dissect the top ten songs on the Billboard Chart. Milli Vanilli, Tone Loc, and Poison make appearances. But don't worry, there are also some musicians that your hosts actuallyenjoy. // Have you been fiending for some more Songs That Time Forgot? Get your fix with a Comeback Queen and a Synth Duo!!
Episode 7 begins with updates from your hosts Joe and Kari. Where does "She Blinded Me With Science" land on the Trash or Treasure scale? Will Kari ever win?
The Main Event -- Who was Teen Queen of the 80's? Girl next door Debbie Gibson or chain-smoking mallrat Tiffany? There was actually much more going on behind the scenes that you might not know about?
Finally, our favorite segment: Songs That Time Forgot. Kari picks a song from a member of Fleetwood Mac (hint: not Stevie or Lindsay), while Joe picks a forgotten gem straight out of the Quiet Storm.
Episode 6: Joe and Kari begin by giving you updates on the recent polls: Favorite Paul of the 80's, Valley Girl vs. Girls Just Want to Have Fun, and QUEEN OF THE 80's. Then Kari gives an update that is so totally 90's that we almost had to change the name of the podcast!!
Next up is Trash or Treasure, where your hosts debate the musical merits of David Lee Roth. Did Van Halen do the right thing by giving him the boot? Make sure to voice your opinion on Twitter (unless your name is Sammy Hagar, then you're not allowed to vote).
Special Report: Is your favorite 80's song a COVER!? Joe and Kari discuss some big 80's hits that had past lives as 60's and 70's tunes. Then they put their thing down flip it and reverse it and discuss some recent cover versions of beloved 80's tunes.
Episode 5: Kari and Joe give you all the updates you need!! And guess what!? Your favorite segment is back! It's time to decide -- is "She Blinded Me With Science" trash or treasure?? You may discover some new facts about this 80's "gem."
File this next segment under "It's a Dirty Job, But Someone's Got to Do It" ... Joe and Kari discuss those actors from the 80's that thought it would be a good idea to release "music" at the height of their popularity. Were any of these actors talented, or was this just a case of too many Yes Men and too much cocaine?
Finally, Kari tells Joe a story that she's been teasing for months. It's a love story that will Take Your Breath Away, and leave you with No More Words. The Metro.
Episode 4: Joe and Kari welcome listeners and give a bit of news about the podcast. Then it's time to get the results from our inaugural "Trash or Treasure" segment. Does "Missing You" by John Waite enter the Hall of Fame? Or will it be fitted for cement shoes? And I hope you're sitting down, because Joe and Kari throw down the gauntlet and decide it's time to crown a QUEEN OF THE 80'S! (4:23) // Sorry, Stacey Q -- no ONE HIT WONDERS here! Joe and Kari discuss the cream of the crop. Who has what it takes?? Don't forget to cast your vote online! Finally, it's time for our favorite segment "Songs That Time Forgot" (35:15) as we listen to some obscure hits from a beloved 80's movie and an even more beloved singer-songwriter.
Episode 3! // (0:00) Kari and Joe say thanks to some special peeps that helped and give you a bit of news about all things HRT80s (that's Hey, Remember the 80's? to you newbies) (3:26) Joe gives an update to one of our picks for "Songs that Time Forgot" so make sure you've watched the video for Steel Breeze's "You Don't Want Me Anymore." (6:00) Your favorite song might have been performed by a man named Paul, and you didn't even know it! We take a deep dive into all those Pauls, and yes, there WILL be a quiz!! (19:00) Time for a new segment called "Leave it in the 80's." It's not that these songs are bad necessarily...they just should never have been made in the first place. It will all make sense when you listen. (28:12) Kari has a special message for Joe.
Episode 2: Joe and Kari discuss the BIG HITS of the 80's! What was the number one song of 1980? 1981? 82? You get the picture. Do these songs hold up? Do they deserve the crown? Or perhaps the number TWO song of year should be the rightful victor? Did the American record-buying public get it right? Then, get ready for "Songs that Time Forgot"(30:26) as Kari and Joe offer up some songs that you may have missed in the 80's (or perhaps you weren't born yet, we don't know your life).
Episode 1 / (0:00) Joe and Kari introduce themselves and explain how in the heck they became OBSESSED with 80's music! (9:32) The duo reveal their Top 5 80's songs of all time to give you an idea of where they land in terms of 80's faves // (26:21) They can't all be Ghostbusters! Joe and Kari discuss a couple of Obscure-ish 80's Gems // (33:05)John Waite's "Missing You" - is it Trash or Treasure? Joe and Kari take sides, and a friendship is tested!!