Chartbuster: What Have I Done to Deserve This - Pet Shop Boys

"What Have I Done to Deserve This?" is a classic synth-pop song by the Pet Shop Boys, featuring guest vocals by Dusty Springfield. First released in 1987, the song's catchy beat, playful lyrics, and sultry vocals continue to captivate audiences to this day.

The song begins with a bouncy synth melody and the pulsing beat that characterized much of the Pet Shop Boys' early music. Neil Tennant's sly, tongue-in-cheek lyrics tell the story of a man who can't believe his luck as he reflects on the romantic relationship he's found himself in. The chorus features Dusty Springfield's soulful vocals, adding a touch of glamour and drama to the proceedings.

Although the Pet Shop Boys had already established themselves as one of the most successful synth-pop acts of the era, "What Have I Done to Deserve This?" represented a new level of sophistication and mainstream appeal. The addition of Dusty Springfield's vocals helped to broaden the group's appeal beyond the electronic music underground, and the single rocketed up the charts in both the UK and the US.

In the years since its release, "What Have I Done to Deserve This?" has become a beloved classic of 80s pop music. The song's catchy hooks and playful spirit continue to resonate with audiences, and it remains a staple of retro dance parties and 80s nostalgia playlists.

But beyond its danceability and catchy hooks, "What Have I Done to Deserve This?" also showcases the Pet Shop Boys' sharp wit and observational humor. The song's lyrics play with the conventions of love songs and romantic storytelling, injecting a sense of irony and detachment into the proceedings. This sense of playful introspection helped to set the Pet Shop Boys apart from their contemporaries in the crowded synth-pop landscape of the 80s.

In the end, "What Have I Done to Deserve This?" is a perfect example of the Pet Shop Boys' unique blend of pop sensibility, electronic experimentation, and wry humor. It's a song that continues to delight and surprise listeners, both old and new, with its infectious beat and cheeky charm.

Music on Film - Dirty Dancing

Dirty Dancing is one of the most beloved movies of all time, and its iconic soundtrack is a huge part of that love affair. The 1987 film is set in the 1960s and tells the story of a young woman, Baby Houseman (Jennifer Grey), who falls in love with a dance instructor, Johnny Castle (Patrick Swayze), while spending the summer at a resort in the Catskills. The movie's soundtrack, which is a mix of rock-and-roll, pop, and Latin music, perfectly captures the spirit of the era.

The soundtrack of Dirty Dancing sold over 32 million copies worldwide, making it one of the best-selling movie soundtracks of all time. Its most famous song, "(I've Had) The Time of My Life," sung by Bill Medley and Jennifer Warnes, won the Academy Award for Best Original Song and a Golden Globe Award. The song's iconic chorus "I've had the time of my life, and I never felt this way before" has become deeply ingrained in popular culture, and it remains a staple at weddings and parties.

Another standout song on the soundtrack is "Hungry Eyes" by Eric Carmen, which captures the longing and desire between the movie's two leads. It features an infectious pop-piano riff and a sultry vocal performance and has become one of the most famous hits from the movie.

The Latina-inspired "Do You Love Me" by The Contours is another song from the soundtrack, which has become a classic hit. Its brass section and irresistible rhythm have made it a fan favorite, and it has enjoyed enduring popularity.

Other tracks from the Dirty Dancing soundtrack, like "She's Like the Wind" by Patrick Swayze and "Cry to Me" by Solomon Burke, showcase the range of musical genres featured in the movie. The music enhances the romance, passion, and power of the movie, while also giving viewers a glimpse into the past.

Overall, the Dirty Dancing soundtrack captures the magic of the movie, taking listeners on a nostalgic trip back in time. Its infectious and classic hits bring the characters, setting, and emotions of the movie alive, making it an immortal classic. As more years pass, fans of the movie continue to sing and dance to its irresistible tunes, proving that Dirty Dancing's music is truly timeless.

Chartbuster: Moonlighting - Al Jarreau

“Moonlighting” is one of Al Jarreau’s most beloved songs, and for good reason. Released in 1987, this jazzy, upbeat track quickly became a hit and proved to be a defining moment in Jarreau’s career. With its distinctive sound and undeniable energy, “Moonlighting” remains a beloved tune that continues to captivate listeners to this day.

“Moonlighting” was the theme song for the popular television show of the same name, which aired from 1985 to 1989. The show followed the adventures of Maddie Hayes (Cybill Shepherd), a former model who finds herself the owner of a detective agency after her former accountant steals all her money. The show was known for its clever writing, its engaging characters, and of course, its soundtrack, courtesy of Al Jarreau.

The song was a perfect fit for the show, as its lyrics are about a man who works during the day to make ends meet, but finds solace in his moonlighting gig. The song is a celebration of the power of music and how it can offer a form of escape and therapy for those who need it most.

The track features Al Jarreau’s signature vocal style, which combines elements of jazz, R&B, and pop to create a unique sound that is instantly recognizable. The song’s rhythm is infectious and upbeat, with a memorable melody that is both catchy and sophisticated.

“Moonlighting” was a commercial success, peaking at #23 on the Billboard Hot 100 and #1 on the Billboard Adult Contemporary chart. It earned Jarreau a Grammy nomination for Best Pop Vocal Performance, Male, in 1988, and is often cited as one of his greatest hits.

In conclusion, “Moonlighting” is a true classic of ‘80s music – a catchy, uplifting tune that has stood the test of time. Al Jarreau’s voice soars over the upbeat rhythm, creating a song that is both fun and full of heart. Whether you remember it from the television show or have discovered it on your own, “Moonlighting” is a song that deserves to be celebrated as a hallmark of ‘80s pop culture.

Retro Review: George Michael - Faith

Faith, the debut solo album by George Michael, is a masterpiece that showcases his talent as a songwriter and musician. Released in 1987, the album marked a significant departure from Michael's pop duo Wham! and allowed him to establish himself as one of the most talented artists of his generation.

The album opens with the title track, "Faith," a masterpiece that remains one of Michael's greatest hits. The song's iconic riff, catchy melody, and powerful lyrics make it a timeless classic. The video for the song, featuring Michael strutting around in a leather jacket and tight jeans, helped solidify his status as a sex symbol.

The album also included other hit singles, including "Father Figure," "One More Try," and "Monkey," each showcasing Michael's versatility as a songwriter. The album's soaring ballads were a departure from Wham!'s pop sound, and Michael infused them with a level of soul and emotion that few pop stars could match.

One of the most remarkable things about Faith is how it remains relevant more than three decades later. Its themes of love, loss, and redemption are timeless, and the quality of Michael's songwriting is unparalleled. Even the deeper cuts on the album, like "Hard Day" and "Kissing a Fool," have stood the test of time and remain favorites among fans.

In addition to the hit songs and excellent songwriting, Faith also marked a significant turning point in Michael's career. It allowed him to establish himself as a solo artist and paved the way for future albums like Listen Without Prejudice Volume 1 and Older.

In conclusion, Faith is an album that stands the test of time. Its catchy hooks, soaring ballads, and powerful lyrics continue to resonate with fans and newcomers alike. It marked the beginning of George Michael's remarkable solo career and remains a testament to his talent as a songwriter and musician. If you haven't listened to Faith, now is the time to discover what all the fuss is about.