Episode 16 Kenny Rogers, Spandau Ballet, Diana Ross, ABBA, Devo, Bruce Springsteen, St Winifreds School Choir

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!