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Last updated on Apr 1,2025, updated monthly. |
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 1 . Leo Sayer - When I Need YouLeo Sayer’s “When I Need You,” penned by Albert Hammond and Carole Bayer Sager, emerges in 1977 under the sharp production of Richard Perry. Propelled by a cadre of elite session players, the track from Sayer’s album *Endless Flight* secures three weeks at UK’s No. 1 and crowns Billboard's Hot 100 in May. Introduced by Albert Hammond in 1976, Sayer’s rendition eclipses its origins, even featuring on *The Muppet Show* during its third season's second episode. Writer(s) : Carole Bayer Sager, Albert Louis Hammond Publisher(s) : Albert Hammond Music Featured on the 1976 album Endless Flight
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 2 . Bryan Adams - Have You Ever Really Loved A Woman?Created for the film "Don Juan DeMarco" starring Marlon Brando, Johnny Depp, and Faye Dunaway (1995), this song is penned by Bryan Adams, Michael Kamen, and Robert John "Mutt" Lange. It features a recurring melody throughout the movie. Recorded in Jamaica, it includes a guitar performance by Paco de Lucía. The song topped the charts in the US and Canada. "Have You Ever Really Loved a Woman?" was even nominated for an Oscar for Best Original Song but lost to "Colors of the Wind" from Pocahontas. The corresponding music video was shot by Anton Corbijn in a bar in Marbella, Spain. The music video is directed by Anton Corbijn. Writer(s) : Bryan Adams, Robert John Lange, Michael Arnold Kamen, Rudy Perez Publisher(s) : Out Of Pocket Publishing Co, Badams Music Limited, New Line Music Corp, Rubet Music, K Man Corp
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 3 . Paul McCartney - Hope Of DeliverancePaul McCartney's "Hope of Deliverance," released December 28, 1992, as the lead single from "Off the Ground," features McCartney and Julian Mendelsohn as co-producers and writers. The track peaks at No. 18 on the UK Singles Chart, No. 3 in Germany, and enters the European top 10 in Austria and the Netherlands. The U.S. reception shows moderate success, reaching No. 83 on the Hot 100 but faring better at No. 9 on the Adult Contemporary Chart. Canada sees it rise to No. 20 on the RPM Top Singles chart. Its Andy Morahan-directed video intertwines jungle aesthetics with themes of unity, featuring McCartney and his band in earthy visuals. Performed regularly during the "New World Tour," the track also appears on the 2001 "Wingspan: Hits and History" compilation. The single includes non-album B-sides like "Big Boys Bickering," "Long Leather Coat," and "Kicked Around No More." The music video is directed by Andy Morahan. Writer(s) : Paul James Mccartney Publisher(s) : Mpl Communications Inc Featured on the 1993 album Off the Ground
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 4 . Bryan Adams - Back To YouBryan Adams’ "Back to You," performed live and acoustically, anchors his 1997 album "MTV Unplugged," recorded at New York's Hammerstein Ballroom on September 26, 1997. Released as a single in December 1997, it broke into the Top 40 charts across Canada, the UK, and Europe. Featuring Máire Breatnach on violin and band regulars Keith Scott and Mickey Curry, its stripped-back arrangement became synonymous with the show's appeal. Its live music video earned heavy rotation, while "MTV Unplugged" reached #2 on the Canadian Albums Chart, achieving triple Platinum certification by 1998. The music video is directed by Steve Barron. Writer(s) : Bryan Adams, Eliot Kennedy Publisher(s) : Badams Music Limited, Sony Music Publishing
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 5 . Bob Seger - Hollywood NightsReleased in 1978, "Hollywood Nights" was recorded at Criteria Studios in Miami. Produced by Seger and Punch Andrews, it captures the raw energy of Los Angeles nightlife. The song reached the top 20 on the Billboard Hot 100. The music video is directed by Wayne Isham. Writer(s) : Robert Clark Seger Publisher(s) : Gear Publ
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 6 . Bonnie Raitt - Nick Of TimeWritten in 1989, "Nick Of Time" by Bonnie Raitt was produced by Don Was, known for his work with The Rolling Stones and Bob Dylan. Recorded at Ocean Way Recording in Los Angeles, it featured on the eponymous album that won the Grammy Award for Album of the Year in 1990. The song, which addresses themes of aging and redemption, was widely acclaimed upon release. The music video is directed by Tamra Davis. Writer(s) : Bonnie Raitt Publisher(s) : Kokomo Music Featured on the 1989 album Nick of Time
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 7 . Bob Seger - Night MovesWritten in 1976, "Night Moves" captures the nostalgia of adolescence. Recorded at Muscle Shoals Sound Studio in Alabama, this song marked a turning point in Seger's career, becoming a major hit in the US. Produced by Jack Richardson, who had worked with The Guess Who, it features renowned musicians from the Muscle Shoals Rhythm Section. The official video, released in 1994, features Matt LeBlanc (yes, Joey from Friends) and Daphne Zuniga (yes, Jo from Melrose Place) in a '60s drive-in. The music video is directed by Wayne Isham. Writer(s) : Robert Clark Seger Publisher(s) : Gear Publ Featured on the 1976 album Night Moves
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 8 . Bee Gees - Alone"Alone" is a song by the Bee Gees released in 1997. It's one of the group's last great ballads, highlighting Barry Gibb's distinctive voice. With its poignant melody, the song explores themes of loneliness and the search for comfort. The track reached the top 10 in several countries, including the UK and Germany. "Alone" was also performed during their reunion concerts, solidifying its status among the group's fans. The music video is directed by Nick Egan. Writer(s) : Maurice Ernest Gibb, Robin Hugh Gibb Publisher(s) : Crompton Songs, Redbreast Publishing Ltd, Universal Music Publ International Mgb Ltd Featured on the 1997 album Still Waters
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 9 . Pretenders - KidProduced by Nick Lowe, "Kid" is a 1979 single by The Pretenders, written by lead singer and guitarist Chrissie Hynde. The track is characterized by its blend of punk rock and new wave. With lyrics filled with emotion and vulnerability, addressing themes of relationships and personal growth, "Kid" was well received by critics and remains a fan favorite. Writer(s) : Chrissie Hynde Publisher(s) : Hipgnosis Songs Fund Limited Featured on the 1979 album Pretenders
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 10 . Eric Clapton - Wonderful TonightDedicated to Pattie Boyd, then his girlfriend, "Wonderful Tonight" by Eric Clapton, released in 1977, is a romantic ballad written after an evening where Clapton waited for Boyd to get ready to go out. Producer Glyn Johns, known for his work with the Rolling Stones and Led Zeppelin, helped create an intimate and authentic sound for a song that captures the simplicity and beauty of everyday love. Writer(s) : Eric Clapton Publisher(s) : Throat Music Ltd Featured on the 1977 album Slowhand
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 11 . Bryan Adams - [Everything I Do] I Do It For YouCreated for the film "Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves" in 1991, "[Everything I Do] I Do It For You" by Bryan Adams was written by Bryan Adams, Michael Kamen, and Robert John "Mutt" Lange. Recorded in London, it achieved phenomenal international success, topping the charts in at least 19 countries, including the US and UK, and selling over 15 million copies worldwide. The music video is directed by Julien Temple. Writer(s) : Michael Arnold Kamen, Michael Arnold Kamen Publisher(s) : Out Of Pocket Publishing Co, Zachary Creek Music Inc, Miracle Creek Music Inc, 2855 Music, Almo Music Corporation Featured on the 1991 album Waking Up the Neighbours
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 12 . Bee Gees - For Whom The Bell TollsInspired by Ernest Hemingway's novel of the same name, which itself takes its title from a poem by John Donne, "For Whom the Bell Tolls" by the Bee Gees, released in 1993, explores themes of loss and mourning. Maurice Gibb described the song as a reflection on the end of an era and the melancholy that follows. In 1994, the song won a Brit Award for Best British Video, highlighting its visual and emotional impact. The song was also included in the soundtrack of the film "My Girl 2," directed by Howard Zieff, starring Anna Chlumsky and Dan Aykroyd. The music video is directed by Gregg Masuak. Writer(s) : Maurice Ernest Gibb, Robin Hugh Gibb, Barry Alan Gibb Publisher(s) : Universal Music Publ International Mgb Ltd, Crompton Songs Featured on the 1993 album Size Isn't Everything
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 13 . Pretenders - 2000 Miles"2000 Miles" by The Pretenders is a bittersweet reflection veiled in a holiday setting, tapping into themes of love and loss with subtle poignancy. Written by Chrissie Hynde, its origins are often linked to the memory of their former guitarist James Honeyman-Scott, whose passing left a mark on the band’s trajectory. Musically, the song leans on swelling guitars and Hynde’s plaintive vocals, echoing the style of '60s ballads while painting a wintry scene that lingers in quiet introspection. Released as part of the 1983 album *Learning to Crawl*, the track reached No. 15 on the UK Singles Chart, demonstrating its commercial and emotional resonance. A music video filled with picturesque snowfall complemented its tone, but the track stands apart for avoiding stereotypical festive cheer in favor of understated melancholy. Over the decades, its adaptability has been proven through covers by artists like Coldplay, who’ve added their own textures without diluting its essence. With every listen, the yearning embedded in the song feels timeless, securing its place on wintertime playlists that crave something more than surface seasonal joy. Featured on the 1983 album Learning to Crawl
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 14 . Mike + The Mechanics - Over My ShoulderWith Paul Carrack's raw emotion, "Over My Shoulder" by Mike + The Mechanics, released in 1995, is a song about broken relationships and regrets. The music video shows a couple frolicking in a cemetery while the band strums on guitars. Let's admit that the metaphor completely escapes us. The song became a hit in Europe, reaching the Top 20 in several countries. Mike Rutherford, also a founding member of Genesis, used this song to explore more personal and introspective themes. Writer(s) : Paul Melvyn Carrack, Michael Rutherford Publisher(s) : Michael Rutherford Publishing Ltd, Plangent Visions Music Ltd Featured on the 1995 album Beggar on a Beach of Gold
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 15 . Rod Stewart - Downtown Train"Downtown Train" is a cover of Tom Waits' 1985 song by Rod Stewart, released in 1989. Producer Trevor Horn, who also worked with artists like Frankie Goes to Hollywood, helped Stewart turn this song into a mainstream hit. It reached the third spot on the Billboard Hot 100. The song speaks of longing and hope of reuniting with a lost love while the video tells the journey of a young woman on the subway while Rod sings his heart out on the platform. The music video is directed by Jean-Baptiste Mondino. Writer(s) : Kathleen Brennan, Thomas Alan Waits Publisher(s) : Jalma Music Featured on the 1991 album Vagabond Heart
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 16 . Mike + The Mechanics - Another Cup Of Coffee"Another Cup of Coffee" by Mike + The Mechanics tells the poignant story of emotional distance between two people, the end of a relationship, evoking themes of loneliness, regrets, and reflection on the past. The cup of coffee is what a woman pours herself while contemplating a stain on the wall. Imagine a better symbol of monotony and melancholy. Paul Carrack, the lead singer, was also a member of famous bands like Squeeze and Ace. "Another Cup of Coffee" is often praised for its production quality, characteristic of Mike Rutherford's style, who is also a founding member of Genesis. The music video is directed by Gregg Masuak. Featured on the 1995 album Beggar on a Beach of Gold
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 17 . Patty Smyth - Sometimes Love Just Ain't Enough (w/ Don Henley)A major commercial success, reaching number 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 and becoming a hit on Adult Contemporary radio, "Sometimes Love Just Ain't Enough" is a duet by Patty Smyth and Don Henley, released in 1992. Produced by Danny Kortchmar, known for his work with James Taylor and Carly Simon, the song was recorded during a pivotal time in both Smyth's and Henley's solo careers. Two years later, Patty Smyth co-wrote "Look What Love Has Done," a Grammy and Oscar-nominated song for the "Junior" soundtrack, and five years later, she married former tennis player John McEnroe. The music video is directed by Scott Kalvert. Writer(s) : Joleen L Belle, Ronald James Finn Publisher(s) : Bok Music Featured on the 1992 album Patty Smyth
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 18 . Carly Simon - You're So VainKnown for its mysterious lyrics seemingly aimed at a narcissistic lover, "You're So Vain" by Carly Simon was released in 1972. Mick Jagger, who provided uncredited backing vocals, along with orchestral string arrangements by Paul Buckmaster, adds extra depth to this iconic track. The song reached number one on the Billboard charts, becoming one of Simon's biggest hits. For decades after its release, the identity of the man described in the song remained a subject of intense speculation and debate until Simon revealed in 2015 that the second verse was about actor Warren Beatty, with whom she had a relationship in the 1970s. The music video is directed by Sam Griffith. Writer(s) : Carly E Simon Publisher(s) : Cest Music, Universal Music Corporation Featured on the 1972 album No Secrets
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 19 . Bruce Springsteen - Lucky TownReleased in 1992, "Lucky Town" was recorded between September 1991 and January 1992 at Thrill Hill Recording and A&M Studios. Produced by Springsteen, Jon Landau, and Chuck Plotkin, the song reflects a period of change and renewal in Springsteen's life. It was well-received, reaching number three on the Billboard 200 in the US and number two in the UK. Writer(s) : Bruce Frederick Joseph Springsteen Publisher(s) : Eldridge Publishing Co., Sony/Atv Pop Music Publishing Featured on the 1992 album Lucky Town
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 20 . Public Enemy - He Got Game (w/ Stephen Stills)"He Got Game" by Public Enemy, featuring Stephen Stills, is the title track of the 1998 Spike Lee film of the same name, starring Denzel Washington and Ray Allen. The track samples "For What It's Worth" by Buffalo Springfield and addresses social justice and personal challenges, hallmarks of Public Enemy's style. The music video is directed by Spike Lee. Basket Ball Meets Cinema 
He Got GameDirected by Spike Lee, this film follows the story of Jesus Shuttlesworth, a high school basketball star, and his father Jake Shuttlesworth, who tries to repair their relationship while seeking a reduced prison sentence.
HoosiersBased on a true story, this film tells the story of a small-town Indiana high school basketball team that overcomes obstacles to reach the state championship. Gene Hackman stars as the coach.
White Men Can't JumpThis comedy-drama stars Wesley Snipes and Woody Harrelson as two street basketball hustlers who team up to win money in tournaments.
Space JamA mix of animation and live-action, this film stars Michael Jordan who helps the Looney Tunes win a basketball game against aliens.
Coach CarterBased on a true story, this film tells the story of Ken Carter (played by Samuel L. Jackson), a high school basketball coach who emphasizes academics and discipline as much as sports.
Love & BasketballThis film follows the relationship between Monica (Sanaa Lathan) and Quincy (Omar Epps), two neighbors who share a passion for basketball and navigate the challenges of their personal relationship and sports careers.
Glory RoadBased on a true story, this film tells the story of the Texas Western College basketball team, which in 1966 became the first team to start an all-African American lineup in the NCAA championship game.
Above the RimThis film stars Duane Martin, Tupac Shakur, and Leon Robinson, and follows the story of a talented young basketball player caught between loyalty to his coach and the criminal influences of the street.
The Basketball DiariesBased on the memoirs of Jim Carroll, this film stars Leonardo DiCaprio as a young basketball player who descends into drug addiction.
Blue ChipsThis film stars Nick Nolte as a college basketball coach facing corruption and ethical dilemmas in player recruitment. Writer(s) : Luquantumleap, Carl Ridenhour, Steve Stills Publisher(s) : Def American Songs Inc, Reach Music Songs, Terrordome Music Publishing Llc Featured on the 1998 album He Got Game : Soundtrack
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ABOUT 90s MELLOW GOLDWhat is Mellow Gold ?The term “Mellow Gold” combines “mellow,” meaning soft and pleasant, and “gold,” suggesting timeless value and quality. It emerges in the 1970s, a time when people seek comfort and relaxation. FM radio stations, with their soft music formats, play a crucial role in popularizing this musical style. As a distinct style, “Mellow Gold” fuses influences from folk and soft rock music. Artists like Carpenters, Bread, and America are among the pioneers. They set the standards for the genre, with songs that blend memorable melodies with evocative lyrics. Evolution of Mellow Gold in the 80s and 90sIn the 80s and 90s, the “Mellow Gold” style evolves by adapting to new musical trends. While the 70s are marked by acoustic sounds and gentle melodies, the following decades see more elaborate productions and the integration of new technologies—synthesizers, drum machines—and diverse musical styles. Over the years, “Mellow Gold” artists incorporate elements of pop, R&B, and even rap or electronic music to stay relevant. This ability to evolve while maintaining key characteristics allows “Mellow Gold” music to remain popular with new generations of listeners. Influence of Mellow Gold on Other Genres“Mellow Gold” has a significant impact on several other musical genres. Its focus on melody and harmonious arrangements leaves a lasting mark on contemporary pop and soft rock. Many pop and rock artists from the 90s and beyond draw from “Mellow Gold” to create accessible and emotionally resonant tracks. Genres like “adult contemporary” and “smooth jazz” also feel its influence. |
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