In the second half of Playlist 25 we dive back into June 1981, spotlighting breakthrough moments from Kid Creole & The Coconuts, Depeche Mode, Grace Jones, Tom Tom Club and more. We break down the songs, stories, and studio tales behind a packed final half of the playlist. Expect a mix of Latin-funk, early synth-pop, post-punk swagger and dancefloor classics, with context on charts, recording sessions and the cultural pulse of 1981. Links to Playlist 25 Spotify Apple Music In case the playlist hyperlinks don't work on your podcast platform of choice, the songs are: 8. Kid Creole & The Coconuts - Me No Pop I 9. Depeche Mode - New Life 10. Linx - Throw Away The Key 11. Grace Jones - Pull Up To The Bumper 12. Tom Tom Club - Wordy Rappinghood 13. Rainbow - Can't Happen Here

In this episode of I Completed 80s Music, we dive into Playlist 25, journeying into the musical tapestry of June 1981. Kicking off with Siouxie and the Banshees, we unravel the hypnotic allure of their track Spellbound from their iconic album Juju. As we navigate through this vibrant decade, we delve into the intricate worlds of the New Romantics and explore Siouxie's lyrical enigma that combines love, horror, and religious undertones. Breaking conventions, we orchestrate a musical duel between Elaine Page and Barbra Streisand with their renditions of Memory from Andrew Lloyd Webber's Cats, dissecting each version's emotional gravity and theatrical prowess. We further witness Bucksfizz in their post-Eurovision evolution with Piece of the Action, cementing their pop credentials beyond the contest fray. Our journey doesn’t stop there as we encounter the gritty synth-powered anthems by Ultravox, delve into Kirsty McCall's rockabilly charm with her cheeky narrative on love and deception, and visit Bruce Springsteen's haunting storytelling genius in The River. Prepare to revisit a year colored by memorable narratives and powerful performances that defined a decade. Links to Playlist 25 Spotify Apple Music In case the playlist hyperlinks don't work on your podcast platform of choice, the songs are: 1. Siouxie And The Banshees - Spellbound 2. Elaine Paige - Memory 3. Barbra Streisand - Memory 4. Bucks Fizz - Piece Of The Action 5. Ultravox - All Stood Still 6. Kirsty MacColl - There's A Guy Works Down The Chip Shop Swears He's Elvis 7. Bruce Springsteen - The River

Welcome back to 'I Completed 80s Music' where your musical librarian, the 80s Mixtaper, guides you through an eclectic mix of songs from the vibrant late May 1981 era. It's the second half of playlist 24. Dive into the sounds of George Harrison's heartfelt homage to John Lennon and discover the intricate journey of Split Enz with Neil Finn's introspective lyrics. This episode features a rich tapestry of musical talent, including highlights from Hazel O'Connor, Randy Crawford, and Odyssey. You'll embark on a nostalgic journey through poignant ballads, soulful reflections, and exuberant funk tracks, all while exploring the challenges and triumphs that shaped these artists' legacies. Join us as we celebrate memorable 80s tunes and revisit the transformative moments and enduring echoes of the era's musical landscape. Links to Playlists: Spotify Apple Music In case the playlist hyperlinks don't work on your podcast platform of choice, the songs are: 7. Split Enz - History Never Repeats 8. George Harrison - All Those Years Ago 9. Hazel O'Connor - Will You? 10. Randy Crawford - You Might Need Somebody 11. Phil Collins - If Leaving Me Is Easy 12. Odyssey - Going Back To My Roots    

Welcome to this week's episode of "I Completed 80s Music," where we journey back to May 1981, uncovering the sounds and stories behind some of the decade's most beloved tracks. Join the 80s Mixtaper as we start with Kim Carnes' timeless hit "Bette Davis Eyes," exploring its production, legacy, and chart-topping success. We also dive into Kim Wilde's energetic "Checkered Love" and Adam Ant's iconic "Stand and Deliver," examining how each song captured the spirit of the era. Groove with Grover Washington Jr.'s "Just the Two of Us," a smooth jazz anthem featuring Bill Withers that's stood the test of time. Explore Imagination's "Body Talk," a transatlantic sound that reshaped London’s club scene, and Squeeze's "Is That Love," a nuanced look at relationships from their eclectic album, "East Side Story." Finally, join us as we celebrate Toya Wilcox's rebellious anthem "I Want to Be Free," a track symbolizing her defiance and enduring presence in music and media. This episode is a nostalgic tribute to the eclectic and vibrant music scene of the 1980s, full of insightful anecdotes and a deep dive into the tracks that defined a generation. Join us for a sonic adventure through a transformative year in pop music history. Links to Playlists: Spotify Apple Music

Strap in for a totally tubular trip to April 1981 on "I Completed 80s Music"! This week, we’re ripping apart the psychedelic frenzy of The Teardrop Explodes’ Treason, vibing to the synth-pop swagger of The Human League’s Sound of the Crowd, and jiving with Shakin’ Stevens’ electrifying You Drive Me Crazy. We’ll melt into the silky smoothness of Champaign’s How ’Bout Us, swoon over Smokey Robinson’s soulful Being With You, and race to the epic beats of Vangelis’ Chariots of Fire. From band implosions to bonkers chart showdowns, we’re spilling all the juicy stories and wild 80s energy behind these legendary tracks. Grab your boombox and join the party!   Links to playlists: Spotify Apple Music In case the playlist hyperlinks don't work on your podcast platform of choice, the songs are: 8. The Teardrop Explodes - Treason 9. The Human League - Sound Of The Crowd 10. Shakin Stevens - You Drive Me Crazy 11. Champaign - How Bout Us 12. Smokey Robinson - Being With You 13. Vangelis - Chariots Of Fire    

Welcome back to I Completed 80s Music! In this episode, we dive into Playlist 23, exploring the best and most intriguing tracks from April 1981. As we inch forward in time, we revisit a landscape where various musical style vie for attention in a fluid chart early in the decade.  This week, we shine a spotlight on Echo and the Bunnymen, The Clash, and Madness, exploring their creative journeys and influence. Dive into the rockabilly revival with the Stray Cats and revel in the unique energy of Ten Pole Tudor's medieval punk stylings. We also pay tribute to pop tunes like Juice Newton's "Angel of the Morning" and mark the final chart appearance of The Undertones with their poignant hit. Although we can't play the songs on the podcast due to copyright rules, discover the stories behind these iconic tracks and find them on our curated Spotify and Apple Music playlists. Join us for a nostalgic ride back to the extravagant sounds of the early 80s! Links to playlists: Spotify Apple Music In case the playlist hyperlinks don't work on your podcast platform of choice, the songs are: 1. Echo & The Bunnymen - Crocodiles 2. Tenpole Tudor - Swords Of A Thousand Men 3. Stray Cats - Stray Cat Strut 4. The Clash - The Magnificent Seven 5. Madness - Grey Day 6. Juice Newton - Angel Of The Morning 7. The Undertones - It's Going To Happen

Welcome back to I Completed 80s Music, hosted by the 80s Mixtaper. In today's episode, we explore the back half Playlist 22, April 1981, featuring tracks 8 to 13. This playlist encapsulates the unpredictable musical year of 1981, where genres collided and experimentation flourished. Bands like Girlschool and Bauhaus pushed boundaries, while timeless artists such as Barry Manilow took bold new directions. Join us as we dive into the stories behind these tracks and celebrate the unique musical tapestry of 1981.    Links to playlists: Spotify Apple Music In case the playlist hyperlinks don't work on your podcast platform of choice, the songs are: 8. Girlschool - Hit And Run 9. Barry Manilow - Bermuda Triangle 10. Ennio Morricone - Chi Mai 11. Bauhaus - Kick In The Eye 12. Level 42 - Love Games 13. The Beat - Drowning

In this episode of "I Complete Your 80s Music," the 80s mixtaper takes you on a musical journey through the unforgettable hits and unique stories from 1981. Dive into the heart of Eurovision excitement with Bucks Fizz's electrifying performance that captured the UK's fourth win, and relish the long ride with REO Speedwagon's iconic power ballad, "Keep On Loving You." Explore the lesser-sung tracks that also defined the era, including Department S's "Is Vic There?" and Keith Marshall’s touching "Only Crying." Discover The Cure’s deeper dive with "Primary," and unravel the mythical undertones of Spandau Ballet's "Musclebound." This episode not only celebrates the chart-toppers but also shines a spotlight on the eclectic, sometimes overlooked tracks that made 1981 a pivotal year in the 80s music scene. Links to playlists: Spotify Apple Music In case the playlist hyperlinks don't work on your podcast platform of choice, the songs are: 1. Bucks Fizz - Making Your Mind Up 2. Department S - Is Vic There? 3. Keith Marshall - Only Crying 4. The Cure - Primary 5. Dire Straits - Skateaway 6. Spandau Ballet - Musclebound 7. REO Speedwagon - Keep On Loving You

Welcome back to I Completed 80s Music, the podcast where we traverse the vibrant, eclectic world of 1980s pop. I'm your host, the 80s Mixtaper, and today we dive into the second half of Playlist 21.5, filled with synth-pop, reggae, and ska tunes. We embark on this journey with Heaven 17's politically charged anthem, "We Don't Need This Fascist Groove Thang," a protest wrapped in infectious synth beats. Step into Sheffield's industrial atmosphere of 1981 as we unravel the protest anthem that dared to merge political commentary and dance rhythms. Then, join us in a nostalgic trip to Top of the Pops with Phil Lynott's "Yellow Pearl," a synth-pop banger that defined an era's TV music scene while showcasing Lynott's leap into solo ventures. We rekindle memories with Hazel O'Connor's "D-Days," a sharp critique of London's nightlife set to new wave beats, illustrating the artist's attempt to shed her "Breaking Glass" persona. Groove along to Light of the World's "I'm So Happy," capturing the essence of Britain's jazz-funk movement, and revel in Sugar Minott's reggae cover of Michael Jackson's "Good Thing Going," which soared through UK charts. Finally, we dive into the ska universe with Bad Manners' "Just a Feeling," a cheeky anthem from 1981 that rides on the energy of those larger-than-life ska performances. Join the mixtaper as we relive the unrestrained celebration of 80s music and its remarkable impact. Links to playlist 21: Spotify Apple Music In case the playlist hyperlinks don't work on your podcast platform of choice, the songs are: 8. Heaven 17 - Fascist Groove Thang 9. Phil Lynott - Yellow Pearl 10. Hazel O'Connor - D Days 11. Light of the World - I'm So Happy 12. Sugar Minott - Good Thing Going 13. Bad Manners - Just A Feeling  

In this episode of "I Completed 80s Music," the 80s mixtaper takes you back to March 1981, exploring the vibrant and eclectic tracks of Playlist 21. Join us as we unravel the stories behind some of the era's most iconic hits, including Phil Collins' pivotal "I Missed Again," a track marking his transition from Genesis' progressive rock legacy to a pop sensation. Discover how The Who grappled with their past and present in their final hit "You Better You Bet," and witness New Order's emergence from Joy Division's ashes with "Ceremony." Learn about the surprising journey of Lena Lovitch with her consumerism critique "New Toy," and how The Nolans kept the disco-pop spirit alive with "Attention to Me." The Whispers' "It’s a Love Thing" will sweep you back to the dancefloors of the early 80s, while Graham Bonnet's "Night Games" showcases a solo leap post-Rainbow. Dive into the colorful mix of genres and stories that pepped up the charts in March 1981, and explore how these artists defined a musical generation. Links to playlist 21: Spotify Apple Music In case the playlist hyperlinks don't work on your podcast platform of choice, the songs are: 1. Phil Collins - I Missed Again 2. The Who - You Better You Bet 3. Lene Lovich - New Toy 4. The Nolans - Attention To Me 5. The Whispers - Its A Love Thing 6. New Order - Ceremony 7. Graham Bonnett - Night Games  

In this episode of "I Completed 80s Music," the 80s mixtaper takes listeners on a journey through the eclectic sounds of the second half of Playlist 20. Dive into nerdy-themed tracks discussing zealotry and nuclear war, revel in a rockabilly classic, and groove to one of Stevie Wonder's finest records. The episode also features listener comments from TikTok and Instagram, sparking discussions on the intelligence of early 80s bands like The Police, The Jam, and Dire Straits. Among the highlighted tracks are Landscape's hauntingly catchy "Einstein A Go-Go," Shakin' Stevens's hip-shaking cover of "This Old House," and Sharon Redd's dancefloor anthem "Can You Handle It." The Jacksons' post-Motown unity anthem "Can You Feel It" is also explored, showcasing their transition as Michael Jackson's solo success begins to emerge. Join the 80s mixtaper as he delves into Lynx's Britfunk with "Intuition" alongside the profound emotional depth of Stevie Wonder's "Lately," a raw ballad capturing love's fragility. This episode is brimming with diverse tracks that defined an era while setting the stage for future musical exploration. Tune in for a nostalgic dive into the vibrant and sometimes quirky world of 80s music history. Links to Playlist 20 Spotify Apple Music In case the playlist hyperlinks don't work on your podcast platform of choice, the songs are: 8. Landscape - Enstein A Go-Go 9. Shakin Stevens - This Ole House 10. Sharon Redd - Can You Handle It 11. The Jacksons - Can You Feel It 12. Linx - Intuition 13. Stevie Wonder - Lately  

Join the 80s mixtaper as we dive into the biggest musical hits of the 80s, crafted from a personal challenge to listen to every charting song from 1979 to 1989. In this captivating episode, the biggest so far, we're now mid february 1981 as explore the debut of iconic bands and artists like Duran Duran, Kim Wilde and revisit classic hits like "Jealous Guy" by Roxy Music and Dolly Parton's "9 to 5." Enjoy insightful discussions and storytelling about these legendary tracks that shaped the decade. Tune in for nostalgia, insights, and the magic of 80s music! Links to Playlist 20 Spotify Apple Music   In case the playlist hyperlinks don't work on your podcast platform of choice, the songs are: 1. Pretenders - Message Of Love 2. Dolly Parton - 9 To 5 3. Duran Duran - Planet Earth 4. Kim Wilde - Kids In America 5. Kiki Dee - Star 6. Roxy Music - Jealous Guy 7. Eddie Rabbitt - I Love A Rainy Night    

In this episode of I Completed 80s Music, the 80s Mixtaper takes us on a nostalgic journey back to February 1981, exploring the rich and diverse soundscape of the second half of Playlist 19. From the silky, summery jazz funk of Freeze’s ‘Southern Freeze’ to Joe Dolce’s light-hearted but controversial ‘Shut Up Your Face,’ the episode encapsulates the eclectic mix of genres that defined 1981. Listeners are invited to rediscover the poignant ironies of The Jam’s ‘That’s Entertainment’ and Neil Diamond’s heartfelt ‘Hello Again,’ which both highlight the eras punk-inspired mod revival to softer, more reflective ballads. The episode concludes with a glance at Christopher Cross’s ‘Sailing,’ capturing the soothing essence of yacht rock, and Boney M’s ‘Children of Paradise,’ marking the twilight of disco in a rapidly evolving music scene. Join the Mixtaper for deep dives into musical nostalgia, artist insights, and cultural reflections. Links to Playlist 19: Spotify Apple Music   In case the playlist hyperlinks don't work on your podcast platform of choice, the songs are: 8. Freeez - Southern Freeez 9. The Jam - That's Entertainment 10. Joe Dolce - Shaddup You Face 11. Boney M. - Children Of Paradise 12. Neil Diamond - Hello Again 13. Christopher Cross - Sailing  

Join the 80s mixtaper as he takes you on a nostalgic journey through the eclectic music of the 1980s. It's late January 1981. This episode dives deep into the posthumous success of John Lennon with his heartwarming single "Woman," a tender tribute to love and a testament to his enduring legacy. Explore the vibrant chaos of The Teardrop Explodes with their biting track "Reward," and revel in Barry Manilow’s emotive ballad "I Made It Through The Rain," capturing the spirit of resilience in a changing world. Discover the transition of Rainbow to pop-metal glory with "I Surrender" and Talking Heads’ transformative and iconic hit "Once in a Lifetime," which blends art-punk with Afrobeat influences. Experience the mystique of The Passions with "I'm in Love with a German Film Star," a post-punk gem of infatuation and atmospheric allure. From the soulful last hurrah of MFSB's "Mysteries of the World" to the eclectic narratives of the 80s, this episode offers a compelling look into the decade's musical evolution. Links to Playlist 19: Spotify Apple Music   In case the playlist hyperlinks don't work on your podcast platform of choice, the songs are: 1. John Lennon - Imagine 2. MFSB - Mysteries of the World 3. The Teardrop Explodes - Reward 4. The Passions - I'm In Love With A German Film Star 5. Rainbow - I Surrender 6. Talking Heads - Once In A Lifetime 7. Barry Manilow - I Made It Through The Rain

Join the 80s mixtaper as we navigate the vibrant musical landscape of early 1981, exploring a diverse range of tracks from the era. Dive into the world of The Clash and their politically infused "Hitsville UK" that celebrates the indie spirit amidst the chaotic backdrop of the Sandinista album. Experience XTC's quirky and controversial "Sergeant Rock Is Going to Help Me," a tune layered with new wave energy and social commentary. We also revisit Spandau Ballet's fashion-forward and dance-centric "The Freeze," which maintained the momentum of the New Romantic movement. Madness's joyful and instrumental "The Return of the Los Palmas 7" brings a playful twist to the playlist, while Cliff Richard's "A Little In Love" offers a tender moment with its heartfelt pop confession. The episode culminates with Blondie's genre-blending "Rapture," a pioneering track that merges new wave, disco, and early hip-hop influences, making history as the first US number one song to feature rap vocals. Each track is a testament to the eclectic and transformative spirit of the 80s music scene. Links to playlist 18: Spotify Apple Music In case the playlist hyperlinks don't work on your podcast platform of choice, the songs are: 8. The Clash - Hitsville U.K 9. XTC - Sgt Rock (Is Going To Help Me) 10. Spandau Ballet - The Freeze 11. Madness - The Return Of The Los Palmas 7 12. Cliff Richard - A Little In Love 13. Blondie - Rapture

Welcome back to I Completed 80s Music, your ultimate tour of the decade's most iconic sounds. Our host, the 80s Mixtaper, transports us from the threshold of 1980 to the vibrant sound energy of 1981. This episode explores not only two of the era's essential tracks but delves into narratives that defined music in those transformative years. Our sonic adventure kicks off with David Bowie and his audacious single "Scary Monsters and Super Creeps," marking Bowie's innovative leap into the new decade. We then traverse through the poignant echoes of Susan Fassbender and Kay Russell's "Twilight Café" — a track as enchanting as it is ephemeral. Ultravox's "Vienna" takes center stage, a monumental anthem that redefined New Wave. Followed by Dire Straits' "Romeo and Juliet," an evocative ballad bridging Shakespearean romance with gritty realism. The episode also revisits Diana Ross's introspective "It's My Turn," a declaration of autonomy. We spotlight Phil Collins' solo triumph "In the Air Tonight," his raw, powerful expression of heartache that elevated the single into a cultural phenomenon. Concluding with Honey Bane, a punk icon's flirt with pop in "Turn Me On, Turn Me Off." Each song paints a vivid soundscape of 1981, a year defined by musical exploration and relentless creativity. Join us as we delve into the stories behind the tracks, the artists, and the immense cultural tapestry of the 80s. Links to playlist 18: Spotify Apple Music In case the playlist hyperlinks don't work on your podcast platform of choice, the songs are: 1. David Bowie - Scary Monsters (And Super Creeps) 2. Susan Fassbender and Kay Russell - Twighlight Cafe 3. Vienna - Ultravox 4. Dire Straits - Romeo and Julier 5. Diana Ross - Its My Turn 6. Phil Collins - In The Air Tonight 7. Honey Bane - Turn Me On Turn Me Off

Hello and welcome back to "I Completed 80s Music" with your host, the 80s Mixtaper. In this milestone episode, we celebrate completing the first year of our 80s musical journey with the conclusion of 1980. Before diving into a year-end review, we explore the final five tracks left on playlist 17. Join us as we delve into a film hit from Queen, a whimsical tune by The Police, a classic synth track from Visage, Stevie Wonder's unique country impression, and some funky beats from Yarborough and Peoples. As we say goodbye to 1980, we'll reflect on standout solo artists, iconic bands, and noteworthy trends that shaped the year. Get ready for an exciting preview of what's to come in 1981, with new music discoveries and continued exploration into the heart of 80s music. Thank you for joining us on this incredible journey as we complete the music of 1980, and look forward to an equally thrilling year ahead. Links to playlist 17: Apple Music Spotify   In case the playlist hyperlinks don't work on your podcast platform of choice, the songs are: 1. Queen - Flash 2. The Police - De Do Do Do, De Da Da Da 3. Visage - Fade To Grey 4. Stevie Wonder - I Aint Gonna Stand For It 5. Yarbrough and Peoples - Don't Stop The Music  

Join the 80s mixtaper for a captivating musical exploration of late 1980 as we dive into some of the most iconic tracks of the era. This episode spotlights "Embarrassment" by Madness, a bold and deeply personal song that challenges societal norms and family dynamics. We also delve into Jonah Louie's unexpected Christmas hit "Stop the Cavalry," a protest song turned festive classic. Experience the humorous yet contraversial "Rabbit" by Chas & Dave, and discover the haunting beauty of Susie and the Banshees' "Israel," a track that transcends traditional Christmas themes with its gothic and atmospheric sound. Meanwhile, the Clash's "The Call Up" offers a quietly subversive anti-war message, underscoring the band's diverse musical and thematic range. Finally, revel in the audacious rebellion of Adam and the Ants with "Ant Music," a track that signifies a turning point in the 80s music scene with its flamboyant and innovative sound. With each song, immerse yourself in the vibrant and transformative landscape of the year's end, celebrating the diverse and unparalleled creativity of the 1980s. Links to playlist 16: Spotify Apple Music In case the playlist hyperlinks don't work on your podcast platform of choice, the songs are: 8. Madness - Embarrassment 9. Jona Lewie - Stop The Cavalry 10. Chas and Dave - Rabbit 11. Siouxie and the Banshees - Israel 12. The Clash - The Call Up 13. Adam and the Ants - Antmusic

Join us as we delve into the eclectic world of 1980's music. It's November 1980 and we're starting with Kenny Rogers’ transformation into a pop sensation through his hit single "Lady," written by Lionel Richie. Next, we explore the beginnings of Spandau Ballet within the vibrant New Romantic scene, highlighting their breakthrough single "To Cut a Long Story Short." We discuss Diana Ross's timeless track "I'm Coming Out," a song originally meant as a celebration of self and identity for the gay community, turned 90s rap song. We reach ABBA's Supertrouper which on the surface sounds upbeat but is all about the pressure of success, at a time where the band's own relationships were under significant strain. We whip it good! with Devo (say no more!), we get a hungry heart with Bruce Springsteen and end with the most sugary Christmas number 1 ever, courtesy of Grandma! Links to playlist 16: Spotify Apple Music In case the playlist hyperlinks don't work on your podcast platform of choice, the songs are: 1. Kenny Rogers - Lady 2. Spanda Ballet - To Cut A Long Story Short 3. Diana Ross - I'm Coming Out 4. ABBA - Super Trouper 5. Devo - Whip It 6. Bruce Springsteen - Hungry Heart 7. St Winifred's School Choir - There's No One Quite Like Grandma   Thanks to Fabian Roch for the glittery intro on all the songs All can be found on pixabay!  

Join the 80s Mixtaper as we delve into the second half of Playlist 15, exploring an exciting mix of music history from November 1980. First up is Rod Stewart's risqué exploration of desire with 'Passion', a track that reflects his ability to straddle the line between rock god and pop icon. We then turn our attention to John Lennon's emotionally charged comeback with 'Starting Over', a song full of optimism that ended in tragedy. The episode also highlights Blondie's adventurous foray into reggae with 'The Tide is High', showcasing their fearless ability to blend genres and produce chart-topping hits. Additionally, listeners are treated to the soothing croon of Neil Diamond's 'Love on the Rocks' and the influential harmonies of Hall & Oates with 'Kiss on My List'. Tune in as we rewind to these classic moments, providing insightful commentary and stories that bring these 80s anthems to life once more. Links to Playlist 15: Spotify Apple Music In case the playlist hyperlinks don't work on your podcast platform of choice, the songs are: 8. Rod Stewart - Passion 9. John Lennon - (Just Like) Starting Over 10. Roxy Music - Same Old Scene 11. Blondie - The Tide Is High 12. Neil Diamond - Love On The Rocks 13. Hall & Oates - Kiss On My List