How well do you know your music? Let’s find out with a quiz that accompanies this week playlist.
The subjects du jour are : The Smiths, The Monkees, Mike Oldfield, The Cars, Spandau Ballet, Van Halen, Billy Squier, Billy Idol, The Wedding Present, a-ha, Carmel, Balaam And The Angel
They are the performers of twelve “live” music videos that were ranked in various charts, this week (40/52) BUT … in the EIghties 80s.
Tracklist
 |
1 . The Smiths – The Boy With The Thorn In His SideFeatured on the 1985 album “The Queen Is Dead“.
|
|
|
2 . The Monkees – That Was Then This Is NowFeatured on the 1986 album “Then & Now… The Best of the Monkees”.
|
|
|
3 . Mike Oldfield – Tricks Of The LightFeatured on the 1984 album “Discovery”.
|
|
|
4 . The Cars – Heartbeat CityFeatured on the 1984 album “Heartbeat City”.
|
|
|
5 . Spandau Ballet – LifelineFeatured on the 1982 album “True”.
|
|
|
6 . Van Halen – You Really Got MeFeatured on the 1978 album “Van Halen“.
|
|
|
7 . Billy Squier – The StrokeFeatured on the 1981 album “Don’t Say No”.
|
|
|
8 . Billy Idol – Mony Mony – Live
|
|
|
9 . The Wedding Present – KennedyFeatured on the 1989 album “Bizarro”.
|
|
|
10 . a-ha – I’ve Been Losing YouFeatured on the 1986 album “Scoundrel Days”.
|
|
|
11 . Carmel – Bad DayFeatured on the 1984 album “The Drum Is Everything”. |
|
|
12 . Balaam And The Angel – I Love The Things You Do To MeFeatured on the 1988 album “Live Free or Die”.
|
And the correct answers (in case you missed one or two) are:
1. The “thorn” metaphorically represents the music industry’s skepticism towards The Smiths and Morrissey. This theme is consistent with Morrissey’s criticisms in interviews. The title and concept critique the challenges of fame.
2. The Monkees’ 1986 single was their last US Top 20 hit. It marked a significant moment in their comeback, presenting a blend of nostalgia and contemporary appeal. The single revitalized their presence on the charts.
3. Mike Oldfield recorded “Tricks of the Light” in the serene Swiss Alps. This picturesque setting likely provided an inspiring backdrop, influencing the atmospheric qualities of the track. The song includes vocals by Maggie Reilly and Barry Palmer.
4. “Heartbeat City” stands out for its industrial synth sounds. This sonic element aligns with The Cars’ shift towards more polished, synth-driven music. Ric Ocasek’s vocals contribute to its distinct style.
5. Spandau Ballet’s “Lifeline” marked their shift from a dance-oriented style to pop. This transition was pivotal in shaping their sound on the album *True*. The single achieved commercial success across several charts.
6. Van Halen’s cover of “You Really Got Me” is immediately preceded by “Eruption.” This arrangement spotlights Eddie Van Halen’s guitar skills. The track’s positioning contributed to the band’s explosive debut.
7. Billy Squier’s single reached No. 17 on the US Billboard Hot 100. It was a standout success from the *Don’t Say No* album, contributing to its triple platinum status. Its catchy hooks ensured longevity on rock playlists.
8. Billy Idol’s live rendition of “Mony Mony” featured controversial crowd chants. These explicit interjections became notorious in concert settings. Ironically, the chant’s subversion increased the song’s appeal.
9. “Kennedy” by The Wedding Present alludes to JFK’s assassination. The lyrics’ ambiguity adds intrigue, reflecting themes of conspiracy theories. This complex narrative resonates with the indie rock audience.
10. A-ha’s “I’ve Been Losing You” topped charts in Norway. Its international success reaffirmed their global appeal post-*Hunting High and Low*. The track resides within the synth-pop and new wave genres.
11. Carmel’s “Bad Day” blends jazz and soul, reflecting the group’s musical heritage. The Manchester trio gained attention for their distinct style, marked by vocalist Carmel McCourt’s commanding presence.
12. Balaam And The Angel’s 1987 single is remembered for anthemic choruses. This feature highlights the band’s alternative rock ethos. The track’s energetic delivery maintains its place in rock fans’ memory.
For THE FULL ‘ARE WE LIVE?’ COLLECTION click here