There are absolutely no lows on David Bowie’s masterpiece “Low”

Released on January 14th, 1977, the first album of the famous “Berlin Trilogy,” “Low” was at the date the most experimental and “Avant Garde” of all Bowie’s album

On this day in 1984 BBC bans the Frankie Goes To Hollywood song “Relax”

When Frankie Goes To Hollywood released “Relax” in 1983, they couldn’t imagine the controversy that would arise around their debut single when in 1984 BBC bans the song

One of the biggest music festivals in the world, Rock in Rio, kicked off 41 years ago today

The first ever edition of Rock in Rio took place in Rio De Janeiro, Brazil on January 11th, 1985, and for 10 days a parade of Rock stars such as Queen, Iron Maiden, Ozzy Osbourne or Rod Stewart among others played for a crowd of an estimated 1.4 million people

Remembering the singer and songwriter Scott McKenzie

McKenzie achieved international fame with his 1967 anthem, “San Francisco (Be Sure to Wear Flowers in Your Hair),” his soulful voice and heartfelt lyrics made him a symbol of the 1960s counterculture movement

Pat Benatar celebrates 73 today

The four-time Grammy Award winner, known for her powerhouse vocals and empowering rock anthems, became one of the most influential artists of the 1980s scoring worldwide hits such as “Love Is a Battlefield” and “We Belong”

Why “Blackstar” must not be remembered as David Bowie’s goodbye album

With “Blackstar” Bowie achieved to recap his whole career, it’s an ensemble of every music style he ever tried, there is a little something from every phase, but, again, it’s not a copy, that’s the perfection of it, it’s an evolution

Kenny Loggins celebrates 78 today

Loggins has had a prolific career spanning soft rock hits and iconic movie soundtracks, earning the title “King of Movie Soundtracks” with unforgettable and iconic hits like “Footloose” from the film of the same name and “Danger Zone” from Top Gun

David Bowie’s “Changes” was released on this day in 1972

Originally released on the album “Hunky Dory” in December 1971 and as a single on January 7, 1972, “Changes” remains one of David Bowie’s most popular and influential songs and became the last song he performed on stage

Sir George Martin was born on this day in 1926

Sir George Martin became famous as The Beatles producer, he produced all their studio albums except for “Let It Be” and had a very important key role on helping them developing their signature sound. He was born on this day in 1926

Remembering The Queen Of Disco Donna Summer on her birthday

One of the most influential dance music singers of all time, Donna Summer was born on this day in 1948. She had an impressive successful career that included a string of hit singles during the 1970’s such as “I Feel Love” and “Hot Stuff”

The musical and lyrical perfection of “Songs of Leonard Cohen”

The debut album by Leonard Cohen was released on this day in 1967, besides containing many of Cohen’s most beloved and oft-covered songs, it’s musical and lyrical perfection

The Last Christmas of George Michael

One of the biggest music stars and icons of the last four decades, George Michael left us on Christmas day nine years ago. We look back at his life and career and remember his strong legacy as an artist and human being.

Ricky Martin turns 54 today

Ricky Martin is one of the leading Latin music artists worldwide and was able to cross boundaries and popularize that music style regardless of the language barriers

Joe Meek’s “Telstar” performed by The Tornados becomes the first US No.1 by a British group in 1962

“Telstar” was named after the Telstar communications satellite and one of the first sci-fi-influenced pop songs, it became the first No.1 by a British group in the U.S but despite its success, it also contributed for Joe Meek’s mental health decline

In 1984 Madonna reaches No.1 with “Like A Virgin” for the very first time

Madonna established herself as one of the 1980’s biggest rising Pop stars when her smash hit “Like A Virgin” reached No.1 on the Hot 100 on this day in 1984

The Bangles “Walk Like an Egyptian” all the way to No.1 on the Hot 100 in 1986

We cannot imagine any other version of this 1980’s smash hit, “Walk Like an Egyptian,” but the famous song, who reached No.1 on this day in 1986, was initially offered to two artists before being proposed to The Bangles, find out who

1980’s Pop music icon Limahl turns 67 today

Limahl is mostly remembered for being part of the band Kajagoogoo and for his hit “The Neverending Story” in 1984. With a unique look that even inspired a Marvel superhero, Limahl it’s still one of the most recognizable 80’s Pop music icons. We look back at his life and career to celebrate his 67th anniversary.

Pet Shop Boys version of “Always on My Mind” was No.1 on this day in 1987

The surprising synth-pop version of the Country music classic “Always on My Mind,” popularized by Elvis Presley, gave Pet Shop Boys a worldwide hit, they peaked to No.1 on this day in 1987

ABBA’s co-founder and songwriter Benny Andersson turns 79, look back at 10 of the very best songs from the Swedish Pop music phenomenon

ABBA was formed in 1972, and quickly became a Swedish Pop sensation, but their international breakthrough came in 1974 when the band won the Eurovision Song Contest for Sweden with “Waterloo” and for eight years, the band scored an impressive string or chain, of No.1 hits all over the planet

Don Johnson Turns 76 today

Don Johnson came to prominence during the 1980’s when he starred on the hit TV series “Miami Vice,” he had a very mediatic marriage with actress Melanie Griffith and tried a career as a Pop singer during the 1980’s

Top 10 Best Rock and Pop Christmas Songs

The 1970’s and 1980’s were a strong and fertile ground for Pop and Rock artists to do Christmas songs and turning it into memorable No.1 hits, while not all of the songs on this list are from those decades and not all made it to No.1, they all are memorable and have resisted the test of time for decades

The Human League peaks to No.1 with their signature song, the smash hit “Don’t You Want Me” in 1981

Released on 27th November 1981, the synth-pop classic “Don’t You Want Me” gave The Human League their first and only No.1 on this day in 1981

Singer Brenda Lee turns 81 today

Brenda Lee is mostly remembered by her 1960 hit “I’m Sorry,” but prior to that song she already had scored nine consecutive Top 10 Hot 100 songs. The singer was one of the first Country Pop artists to successfully achieve international fame. She was born on this day in 1944

John Lennon was murdered on this day in 1980

On December 8th, 1980, Mark David Chapman took John Lennon’s life and stole the world from his talent. We look back at Lennon’s life and career on the anniversary of one of music’s darkest days

Europe rules the world with “The Final Countdown” in 1986

Inspired lyrically by David Bowie’s “Space Oddity,” Europe’s “The Final Countdown” reached number one in 25 countries, including the United Kingdom on December 6th, 1986

38 years ago, Belinda Carlisle gets her only Hot 100 No.1 in 1987 with “Heaven Is a Place on Earth”

Featuring very special guests, “Heaven Is a Place on Earth” became Belinda Carlisle’s signature song, it peaked to No.1 on the Hot 100 in 1987

Band Aid “Do They Know It’s Christmas?” was released on this day in 1984

During the 1980’s Christmas songs made by modern Pop music artists reached a new level when on December 3rd the single “Do They Know It’s Christmas?” by Band Aid was released featuring some of the biggest Pop stars at the time such as Bono, George Michael, Duran Duran, Spandau Ballet and Boy George among many others

Pop Princess Britney Spears turns 44 today

Britney Spears became famous in the late 1990’s with songs such as “Opps!…I Did It Again” and “…Baby One More Time”, she has sold over 100 million records worldwide making her one of the best-selling music artists of all time, today the Pop Princess turns 44

Rod Stewart’s disco hit “Do Ya Think I’m Sexy” peaks to No.1 in 1979

“Do Ya Think I’m Sexy” it’s still one of the most recognizable songs worldwide, one of Rod Stewart’s signature songs, reached No.1 in 1979, however was involved in controversy

David Bowie releases “Rubber Band” in 1966, his debut single on Deram

The early years of David Bowie career didn’t really produce any hit songs, in 1966 the 19-year-old Bowie was signed to the new hip label Deram and released his first single on it “Rubber Band,” a Baroque-Pop song that was a sales flop

Billy Idol celebrates 70

Billy Idol is regarded as one of the most influential figures to emerge from the punk-to-pop transition era

The legendary Dick Clark was born 96 years ago today

With his TV show American Bandstand, Dick Clark introduced and promoted an impressive number of new Rock, Pop and Soul artists from the 1950’s throughout the 1980’s. He was born on this day in 1929

Tiny Tim passed away 29 years ago today

Mostly famous for his rendition of “Tip Toe Through the Tulips”, Tiny Tim passed away 29 years ago today in 1996

This is “Thriller” Michael Jackson’s Groundbreaking Album

Back in 1982 Michael Jackson wasn’t quite yet the biggest Pop star in the world, but with “Thriller” that would change in just a few months when on November 30th his masterpiece “Thriller” was released. We revisit “Thriller,” one of the most groundbreaking and influential Pop albums ever made

The Mamas & The Papas’ Denny Doherty was born on this day in 1940

Together with The Mamas & The Papas, Denny Doherty became one of the most successful artists of the 1960’s. The band had a string of worldwide Pop hits between 1966 and 1968 including “California Dreamin'” where he sings lead vocals

ABBA goes No.1 in 1980 with “Super Trouper”

On November 1980 Swedish hit machine ABBA scored their ninth No.1 single in the UK with “Super Trouper”

In 1964, with their “teen death song”, the vocal band The Shangri-Las went No.1 “Leader of the Pack”

The “teen death songs” genre that was bizarrely popular during the early 1960’s, in 1964 the vocal band The Shangri-Las jumped on the band wagon and made one of the most memorable songs within that style, “Leader of the Pack”

Whitney Houston starts a record-breaking 14 week at No.1 on the Hot 100 with “I Will Always Love You” in 1992

Used as the theme song for the movie “The Bodyguard,” Whitney Houston’s rendition of Dolly Parton’s “I Will Always Love You” broke several records and became Houston’s signature song. Read some facts about the song and her 1992 version

The “Dirty Dancing” theme song “(I’ve Had) The Time of My Life” by Jennifer Warnes and Bill Medley went No.1 on the Hot 100 on this day in 1987

“(I’ve Had) The Time of My Life” by Bill Medley and Jennifer Warnes, was released in 1987 as the theme song of the “Dirty Dancing” movie soundtrack and had such a huge success worldwide that today is still one of the most frequently played songs on radio

Remembering the Queen Of Rock, Tina Turner

A voice and figure that crossed through several generations in a planetary scale was born on this day in 1939

Remembering Clem Burke

In 1975, Burke joined the band Blondie, shortly after its formation by Debbie Harry and Chris Stein. His energetic and versatile drumming became a defining element of the band’s sound, playing on all the Blondie albums and contributing to hits like “Heart of Glass,” “Call Me,” and “One Way or Another.”

Betty Everett was born on this day in 1939

Betty Everett is mostly remembered for her million-selling hit “The Shoop Shoop Song (It’s in His Kiss),” the singer was born 86 years ago today

In 1991 Michael Jackson’s “Black or White” enters the UK charts at No.1

Featuring Slash on the guitar, “Black or White” became the first single by an American to go into the UK singles chart at number one since 1960, with “It’s Now or Never” by Elvis Presley

INXS lead singer Michael Hutchence died 28 years ago today

In 1997 the music world was shocked to find about the suicide of INXS lead singer Michael Hutchence at age only 37. The Australian rocker was found dead 28 years ago today

In 1983 Michael Jackson’s “Thriller” changes the game for music videos

Directed by John Landis and starring Jackson and former Playboy centerfold Ola Ray, the iconic music video for “Thriller” had the length of 14 minutes and premiered on this day in 1983

Reflections on the (Young) Rascals

It might seem odd to use the word “underrated” to describe a band with three #1 singles and six top twenty LPs, but then, the (Young) Rascals were an odd kind of band. And for all their (considerable) commercial success, they are rarely spoken of with the same respect as other bands from the same era, despite their groundbreaking achievements. Time to redress the balance…

Kim Wilde turns 65 today

Kim Wilde stands as one of the greatest New Wave and Pop female artists of all time. The British singer scored several Hit singles during the 1980’s including “Kids in America,” “Cambodia,” “You Came” and “You Keep Me Hangin’ On”

In 1985 Wham! “Make It Big” twice

In 1985 Wham! were one of the biggest pop bands (or duos) in the world and after a discreet debut with their first album “Fantastic” released in 1982, they went on to release their best selling and worldwide success “Make It Big” that included some of the 1980’s most memorable Pop music

The Beach Boys experimental extravaganza “Good Vibrations” peaks to No.1 in 1966

“Good Vibrations” stands as one of Rock and Pop’s most revolutionary songs and on November 17th, 1966, The Beach Boys masterpiece reached No.1 at the UK charts

Former Undertones’ Feargal Sharkey peaks to No. 1 with a “A Good Heart” in 1985

Irish singer Feargal Sharkey, formerly of the Undertones got his first No.1 on November 16th, 1985, with the song “A Good Heart,” the song did well across Europe, but it fared less well in the US

Starship goes No.1 on the Hot 100 with “We Built This City” in 1985

Born from the ashes of the 1960’s Psychedelic Rock greats Jefferson Airplane and from Jefferson Starship, the band Starship music was opposite worlds away from its previous incarnations but despite it, they made some memorable 1980’s songs that everyone knows and still remembers

British singer and actress Petula Clark turns 93 today

Petula Clark, “the first lady of British invasion” became worldwide famous with her 1960’s songs such as “Downtown,” today she turns 93

Frida Lyngstad one of the voices from ABBA was born on this day in 1945

Together with Agnetha, Frida completed the ABBA vocal duo that offered the world memorable Pop hits that last to these days, she became a Princess by marriage in 1992 and today Frida turns 79

T’Pau peaks to No.1 with “China in Your Hand” in 1987

British band T’Pau had a strong impact on Pop music during the late 1980’s that didn’t last long enough, however they were able to produce some of the 1980’s most popular songs

1960’s Bubblegum Pop Hitmaker Brian Hyland turns 82

He rose to prominence during the early 1960’s with the smash hit songs “Itsy Bitsy Teenie Weenie Yellow Polkadot Bikini” and “Sealed with a Kiss”, today former Pop idol sensation Brian Hyland turns 82

Lisa Stansfield’s “All Around the World” peaks to No. 1 in 1989

The British singer Lisa Stansfield was one of the biggest Pop rising stars during the early 1990’s, “All Around the Around World” reached number three on the Billboard Hot 100 and was nominated for the Grammy Award for Best Female Pop Vocal Performance at the 33rd Annual Grammy Awards

Chaka Khan gets back on the charts in 1984 with Prince’s “I Feel for You”

“I Feel for You” by Chaka Khan was first recorded and released by Prince on his 1979 self-titled album “Prince” but it was with Khan’s 1984 version that became a hit

David Bowie scores his first U.K No.1 in 1975 rehashing “Space Oddity”

“Space Oddity” was first released as a Phillips single on 11 July 1969 to tie in with the Apollo 11 moon landing but it wasn’t up until 1975 that peaked to No.1

Prince and the New Power Generation massive hit “Cream” peaks to No.1 in 1991

The album “Diamonds and Pearls” featured a string of hits mostly Funk oriented, and defined a highly creative period for Prince

Rolling Stone magazine launches its first number in 1967

Rolling Stone was founded in San Francisco, California in 1967, featuring John Lennon on the cover and offering a free roach clip to hold a marijuana joint. Over the years, despite controversy, the magazine has been able to maintain its position as the mother of all pop culture magazines

Berlin’s “Take My Breath Away” tops the charts in 1986

It’s one of the 1980’s most memorable songs, the hit ballad “Take My Breath Away” by Berlin, composed by Giorgio Moroder and featured on the 1986 blockbuster “Top Gun”

In 1987 Teenage Pop sensation Tiffany scores her first and only No.1 with “I Think We’re Alone Now”

Originally a 1967 US hit for James and the Shondells, “I Think We’re Alone Now” got re-popularized when 17-year-old Tiffany covered the song for her debut studio album, “Tiffany” in 1987

Cher gets her first No.1 as a solo artist in 1971 with “Gypsys, Tramps and Thieves”

With the famous opening lines “born in the wagon of a traveling show” “Gypsys, Tramps and Thieves” remains one of Cher’s best-selling singles of all time and one of her most iconic songs

The Monkees debut single “Last Train to Clarksville” reaches No.1 on the Hot 100 in 1966

The Monkees were one of the 1960’s most memorable American pop acts and released a string of hit songs between 1966 and 1969

Bryan Adams turns 66 today

Bryan Adams is one of the best-selling Rock artists of all time, with a career that has spanned now for over 40 years, today he turns 66

In 1984 Paul McCartney climbs to No.1 with his soundtrack album “Give My Regards to Broad Street”

Released in 1984, Paul McCartney’s movie “Give My Regards to Broad Street” was the attempt of the former Beatle to bring back the same feeling as The Beatles movies during the 1960’s, however the soundtrack to the movie did better than the movie itself

British singer and actress Lulu turns 77 today

She’s an icon for the 1960’s Swinging London and has had a career filled with success over the last 60 years. From the “Shout!” hit to host her variety TV Shows in 1960’s, to Eurovision winner and to work with David Bowie in the 1970’s, we look back at her career

Billy Ocean’s “Caribbean Queen” climbs to No.1 on the Hot 100 in 1984

Billy Ocean had an amazing string of Pop hits during the 1980’s such as “Caribbean Queen” that went No.1 on the Hot 100 on this day in 1984

In 1992 Whitney Houston releases the smash hit “I Will Always Love You”

Dolly Parton originally wrote and recorded the song in 1973 but it’s Whitney Houston’s 1992 version that remains the most popular

The Canadian singer-songwriter k.d lang celebrates 64 today

In the early 1990s, Lang made a bold transition from traditional country to pop and adult contemporary with her landmark album Ingenue, featuring the hit single “Constant Craving”

A-ha’s keyboardist Mags Furuholmen turns 63 today

Mags Furuholmen is the architect of the distinctive A-ha synth sound that ruled part of the 1980’s pop scene with songs such as “Take on Me.” Today, the Norwegian musician and artist turns 63

Enya’s “Orinoco Flow” peaks to No.1 in 1988

Rare are the occasions where mainstream Pop meets and blends with New Age/World Music, but Enya did achieve to break that niche wall into the mainstream Pop with “Orinoco Flow”

Simon Le Bon turns 67 today

Nothing screams more modern classic Pop music than Duran Duran 1980’s hits, the iconic frontman Simon Le Bon,turns 67 today

Elton John performs “Crocodile Rock” on the “The Muppet Show” 48 years ago today

When Elton John appeared on “The Muppet Show” episode 214 back on October 25, 1977, he was the first real rock star to host the program, following a string of comedians and country stars

Michael Jackson rises to No.1 with “Bad” in 1987

The song is one of the many hits Jackson scored from his album “Bad.” 5 years after “Thriller,” Michael Jackson was able to put out an album with the same amount of hit singles although with a different songwriting formula and edgier than the 1982 groundbreaking album. Find out what was the song about

19 years ago, Amy Winehouse says “No, No No” to “Rehab”

Amy’s Winehouse most successful single, “Rehab” from “Back to Black” album was released on October 23, 2006, and won three Grammy Awards

Culture Club’s “Do You Really Want to Hurt Me” goes No.1 in 1982

Culture Club was a Pop phenomenon during the early 1980’s. Lead by the charismatic and eccentric Boy George, the band had a string of worldwide hit songs starting in 1982 with “Do You Really Want to Hurt Me”

In 1964 the Swinging London singer Sandie Shaw reaches No.1 in the U.K with “(There’s) Always Some Thing There to Remind Me”

The barefoot groovy Sandy Shaw got her first hit “(There’s) Always Some Thing There to Remind Me,” penned by the songwriting team Burt Bacharach and Hal David in 1964

“Take On Me” by A-ha reaches No.1 on U.S Hot 100 in 1985

It took two versions and three releases for the Norwegian band to deliver one of the most memorable 80’s hits, “Take on Me,” the success of the song was largely helped by the now iconic and innovative music video

In 1967 the Bee Gees climb to the top of the charts with their massive hit “Massachusetts”

“Massachusetts” was part of a hit singles string released by the brothers Gibb between 1967 and 1968 and it peaked to the top of the charts in 1967. We have some curious facts about this classic

In 1966 The Jimi Hendrix Experience debut as a band in France, supporting the French Yé-Yé superstar Johnny Hallyday

On October 18, 1966, The Jimi Hendrix Experience played the Olympia in Paris as a support act for the French Yé-Yé superstar Johnny Hallyday and were recorded for the first time

The Bee Gees get a last win with “You Win Again” in 1987

Once the kings of the 1970’s Disco sound, the Bee Gees saw a backlash to their music during most of the 1980’s decade but got a last taste of success with their hit “You Win Again” in 1987

Postcards from Paris: 2. La Sorbonne – Synths, Sax and Situationists

Continuing this week’s special series of 4 Postcards from Paris by the brilliant Gareth Jones, today a dive into the underground music scene of the late 1960s and 1970s. Out of the aftermath of May 1968 emerged a strange and fascinating new music scene in France — a fusion of chanson’s poetic heart, jazz’s improvisational mind, and rock’s electric muscle. From those unlikely parts, an underground genre was born

The British singer Cliff Richard turns 85

With more than 250 million records sold worldwide since the beginning of his career in the 1950’s, the singer was never able to successfully break into the American music market, despite dominating the British music scene pre-Beatles

George Michael’s “Praying for Time” goes No.1 on the U.S Hot 100 in 1990

Despite the intentional lack of promotion or marketing, “Praying for Time” turned out to be one of the George Michael’s greatest hits, on this day in 1990 it reached No.1 on the U.S Hot 100

Stevie Wonder’s “I Just Called to Say I Love You” goes No.1 on Hot 100 in 1984

After reaching No.1 in the U.K, Stevie Wonder climbs to No. 1 on the U.S Hot 100 with “I Just Called to Say I Love You” on October 13th, 1984

“True Blue, “Madonna’s tribute to Sean Penn climbs to No.1 in 1986

“True Blue” lyrics were inspired by Madonna’s feelings for her then husband, actor Sean Penn, it charted worldwide in 1986

French song “Je T’Aime…Moin Non Plus” by Serge Gainsbourg and Jane Birkin reaches No.1 but gets censored by BBC

In 1969 BBC’s Top of the Pops refused to air for the first time in their history the No.1 song, “Je T’Aime…Moi Non Plus” by Serge Gainsbourg and Jane Birkin, the French song became one of the most censored during the 1960’s

Revisiting Janet Jackson’s ‘The Velvet Rope’ Released 28 Years Ago

After asserting herself on ‘janet.’ four years earlier, Janet Jackson returned to the studio to craft the sprawling and diverse sounds of “The Velvet Rope” in 1997

Guess the lyrics: Madonna 80’s Songs

How well do you know Madonna’s 1980’s lyrics? Take the quiz to find out if you’re a lucky star!

The Amazing Career Of P.P Arnold

She is best known for her 1967 hit “First Cut Is the Deepest” but she’s far from being one hit wonder, P.P Arnold turns 79 today and for nearly 60 years she has been writing music history. Find out why

The Human League frontman Phil Oakey celebrates 70 today

In the early 1980s, The Human League achieved worldwide fame with the massive hit single “Don’t You Want Me.”

Tiffany is not a teenager anymore

If you spent any time in an American mall in the late 1980’s, then you were fully aware of the Teen Pop sensation Tiffany, but even if you were not in America at the time you know her from her worldwide smash hit where “I Think We’re Alone Now” that made her a 1980’s pop references around the globe. Tiffany turns 54 today

The 1980’s Pop star Robbie Nevil turns 67

“C’est La Vie”, released in 1986 peaked to #2 on the Hot 100, but contrary to what many people think, Robbie Nevil still keeps to this day an important and busy career in music

Looking back at Sting ‘s career

Sting has been one of the most successful artists in the world for well over 4 decades now. He became a well-known name back in the late 1970’s as frontman for The Police with whom he recorded 5 hit albums between 1978 and 1983. He released his first solo album in 1985 making a total now of 12 solo albums. Today, Sting turns 74

In 1982 Teen group Musical Youth put the world singing about…Dutchies. Find out what that really was

The young British-Jamaican band Musical Youth maybe doesn’t ring a bell to many anymore, but their 1982 reggae style song “Pass the Dutchie” perhaps do

In 1983 Bonnie Tyler eclipses every other song in the charts with “Total Eclipse of the Heart”

Bonnie Tyler has been one of the world’s most successful singers, her husky vocals are unquestionably recognizable by almost anyone, but aside of all the hits she scored during her career, her signature song and the one most people still associated her with is the 1983 “Total Eclipse of the Heart”

American Singer-Songwriter Don McLean turns 80 today

The “American Pie” success made McLean an international star during the early 1970’s, the song remains a strong cultural reference around the world. Don McClean turns 80 today

Remembering Jim Diamond

In 1984 with “I Should Have Known Better,” his most memorable song, he reached No.1 in the U.K and charts in other countries in Europe and Australia, we remember Diamond on his birthday

Jennifer Rush turns 65 today

Responsible for one of the biggest hit ballads from the 1980’s, Jennifer Rush rose to fame during the 1980’s with her hit ballad “The Power of Love,” an enduring 80’s classic

Revisiting David Bowie’s influential 1980 album “Scary Monsters (And Super Creeps)”

“Scary Monsters (And Super Creeps)” is not often regarded as one of David Bowie’s groundbreaking albums, however it is, the impact and influence it had on Alternative Rock during the 1980’s and 1990’s it’s tremendous

“Knight Rider” begins its journey in 1982

“Knight Rider, a shadowy flight into the dangerous world of a man who does not exist.” Most TV fans that lived or grew up during the 1980’s remember very well this famous intro from the iconic TV series starring David Hasselhoff

Remembering Robert Palmer

Robert Palmer became worldwide famous during the 1980’s with songs such as “Johnny and Mary” and “Addicted to Love” and he made some of the 1980’s most iconic music videos. We remember the singer who died on this day in 2003

“Don’t Worry Be Happy” by Bobby McFerrin, an enduring hit

The definitive anthem to positivism “Don’t Worry Be Happy” reached No.1 in the U.S Hot 100 on September 24th, 1988, and by doing so, it became the first ever a-cappella song to make it to that competitive chart

“Karma Chameleon” gives Culture Club another hit in 1983

The song is to many the essence of 80’s Pop music, in 1983 gave Culture Club their second U.K No.1

“Girl I’m Gonna Miss You” by Milli Vanilli goes No. 1 in 1989

The German pop duo who became worldwide famous during the late 1980’s and early 1990’s with a string of pop and dance hits from their 1989 album “All or Nothing” but scandal put an early end to their success

Toni Basil is 82 today

She became worldwide famous with the catchy Pop tune “Mickey” in 1982, but after the success of “Mickey,” Basil would go on to direct videos for the Talking Heads, choreograph tours for David Bowie and bring street dance to the public back in the day

Huey Lewis and The News reach No.1 in the Hot 100 charts with “Stuck with You” in 1986

The single was the band’s second number one hit on the Hot 100 chart, following “The Power of Love” in 1985

Fictional group The Archies goes No.1 on Hot 100 in 1969 with “Sugar, Sugar”

Before Gorillaz there was The Archies, an American fictional garage band and on September 20th, 1969, they went No.1 in the Hot 100 with “Sugar, Sugar”

The King of Pop is a guest voice on The Simpsons in the episode “Stark Raving Dad”

On this day in 1991 Michael Jackson was a guest voice on The Simpsons

Bill Medley turns 85 today

Bill Medley’s distinctive voice is noted for his bass-baritone voice in songs such as The Righteous Brothers’ “You’ve Lost That Lovin’ Feelin’,” “Unchained Melody” and the 1980’s classic “(I’ve Had) The Time of My Life”

Kylie Minogue’s ‘Better the Devil You Know’ gives Stock, Aitken and Waterman team their 100th chart entry

On September 19th, 1990, Kylie Minogue’s ‘Better the Devil You Know’ enters the charts and becomes the production and songwriting team Stock Aitken Waterman 100th U.K chart entry

Chubby Checker’s “The Twist” goes No.1 on Hot 100 in 1960

In 1960, Former chicken plucker Chubby Checker went to No.1 on the US singles chart Billboard Hot 100 on September 19, 1960, with ‘The Twist.’ The song officially gave birth to the Twist dance craze

Bobby Vinton’s “Blue Velvet” goes No. 1 on Hot 100 in 1963

Originally recorded in 1951 by Tony Bennet, “Blue Velvet” most famous version came through the voice of Bobby Vinton in 1963

The 5th Dimension singer Lamonte McLemore turns 86

Best known as a founding member of the Grammy-winning vocal group The 5th Dimension and with a career that spans both music and photography, Lamonte McLemore remains mostly remembered by the iconic The 5th Dimension 1969 song “Aquarius/Let the Sunshine In”

The singer-songwriter Richard Marx turns 62 today

During the late 1980’s and early 1990’s, singer-songwriter Richard Marx ruled the charts with his easy listen Rock and Pop music, most notably with the ballad “Right Here Waiting”

In 1984 “Relax” the controversial debut single by Frankie Goes to Hollywood, became the longest running chart hit since 1967

One of the most controversial and most commercially successful records of the decade “Relax” sold a reported 2 million copies in the UK alone, making it the seventh best-selling single in the UK Singles Chart’s history and would be the first song to emphasize the then, shock impact of Frankie members Holly Johnson’s and Paul Rutherford’s open homosexuality

A-ha’s Morten Harket turns 66 today

A-ha scored charts worldwide in 1985 with their hit “Take on Me” and Morten Harket’s distinctive vocals been described as “the greatest falsetto in the history of pop music EVER…”

Remembering the Soul legend Barry White who was born on this day in 1944

With songs such as “You’re the First, the Last, My Everything” he sold over 100 million records worldwide throughout his rich career

Electronic music legend Moby turns 60 today

During the late 1990’s, Moby became one of the most successful artists of the decade with the album “Play,” but he actually started off his music career through a very different genre from the one he’s famous for

The founder and former frontman of The Verve Richard Ashcroft turns 54 today

During the 1990’s The Verve became one of the main figures of the British Alternative Rock scene with songs such as “Bitter Sweet Symphony” and “The Drugs Don’t Work”

The Culture Club drummer Jon Moss turns 6

Jon Moss became worldwide famous as the drummer for Culture Club, but the drummer of songs such as “Karma Chameleon” and former Boy George romantic partner actually came from a strong Punk Rock background prior joining the Culture Club that included many famous Punk bands

Peter Gabriel makes history on the 1987 MTV VMA’s with “Sledgehammer”

Former Genesis member Peter Gabriel made history at the MTV Video Music Awards on September 11th, 1987, with his influential video “Sledgehammer”

Former Bananarama member and co-founder Siobhan Fahey turns 68

As a member of Bananarama, she scored several hit songs worldwide during the 1980’s including “Venus” and “I Heard a Rumour”

Former T’Pau lead singer Carol Decker turns 68 today

During the late 1980’s the British band T’Pau had several hits worldwide including “Heart and Soul” and “China in your Hand”

The Eurythmics co-founder Dave Stewart turns 73

Much more than just a musician, Dave Stewart who started as a struggling New Wave musician in the late 1970’s has built a successful career also as a songwriter and producer to several famous and popular artists for decades now

Black Box “Ride on Time” Dance classic spends 6 weeks on No.1 in 1989

One of Dance Music absolute classics, “Ride on Time” by the Italian based group Black Box started a six-week run at No.1 on the UK singles chart on this day, September 9th, 1989. Look back at the song history

Coolio blends Rap and Pop music fans together in 1995 with “Gangsta’s Paradise”

Rap music was never known to provide #1 hits internationally outside Rap charts, but this wasn’t the case for Coolio who in 1995 went No. 1 in several countries worldwide with “Gangsta’s Paradise” featuring L.V

Stevie Wonder’s “I Just Called to Say I Love You” hits No.1

On September 8th, 1984, 18 years after Wonder’s chart debut in 1966, Stevie Wonder had his first and only U.K No.1

In 1985 “St. Elmo’s Fire (Man in Motion)” peaks No. 1 in the Hot 100 Charts

The song was originally written by David Foster and John Parr for the Canadian athlete Rick Hansen, who at the time was going around the world in his wheelchair to raise awareness for spinal cord injuries.

The Pretenders’ Chrissie Hynde turns 74 today

The once 1960’s “flower child” life changed after Chrissie Hynde moved from her native Akron, Ohio to London, England during the early 1970’s, forming one of the most successful British New Wave bands ever, The Pretenders

ABBA goes No.1 again with “Dancing Queen”

On September 7, 1976, Scandinavian 70’s Pop sensation ABBA hits No. 1 in the charts over a dozen countries with the Disco classic “Dancing Queen”

Disco Diva Gloria Gaynor turns 78

With her signature song “I Will Survive” perhaps is fair to say Gloria Gaynor owes her place in music history to the Disco revolution of the late 1970’s, but her career had already a rich history prior to that

A-ha guitarist and founder Paul Waaktaar turns 64

He remains mostly known as the founder and lead guitarist for the Norwegian 1980’s popular band A-ha who scored smash hits such as “Take on Me”

The Cardigans singer Nina Persson turns 51

Swedish band The Cardigans scored several hits during the 1990’s including the memorable “Lovefool,” today singer and lyricist Nina Persson turns 51

Rod Stewart sails to No. 1 in 1975 with “Sailing”

Originally recorded by The Sutherland Brothers in 1972, “Sailing” became one of Rod Stewart’s signature songs and a major hit

Freddie Mercury 79th Anniversary Special

To celebrate the life of an absolute icon Pop Expresso put together 12 features on Freddie Mercury and Queen

The “Queen of Latin Pop” Gloria Estefan celebrates 68 today

Born in Havana, Cuba in 1957, Gloria Estefan has sold over 100 million records worldwide and won seven Grammy Awards throughout an extraordinary career that helped bridge Latin and mainstream music, earning her international acclaim

The “Papa John” John Phillip’s controversial life

Talented but also controversial, The Mamas & the Papas founder and mentor, “Papa John” John Phillips, wrote and co-wrote some of the most memorable and best Pop songs in history

The 1960’s and 1970’s Rock legend Steve Winwood scores his first US Hot 100 No. 1 with “Higher Love” in 1986

During the 1980’s Winwood was trying to solidify his solid solo career, and was doing so by going into a Pop music direction

Michael Jackson 67th Anniversary Special

6 Special Features including new articles and quizzes to mark The King of Pop 67th Anniversary. Check them out!

Scottish act Aneka tops the charts with “Japanese Boy” in 1981

A major hit across Europe, “Japanese Boy” by Aneka failed to chart in Japan because the songwriters ignored a very important detail

The British singer and actress Kim Appleby celebrates 64 today

In the mid-1980s, Kim Appleby rose to fame as one half of the pop duo Mel & Kim, alongside her sister Melanie. The duo was known for their infectious dance-pop tracks and catchy melodies including the hits “Showing Out (Get Fresh at the Weekend),” and “Respectable”

Canadian singer Shania Twain turns 60

During the 1990’s, the Canadian country music star Shania Twain unexpectedly conquered the Pop music world, scoring memorable hits around the world such as “Man! I Feel Like a Woman”

German group Culture Beat tops the world charts in 1993 with their techno/euro-dance hit “Mr. Vain”

A smash hit and one of the most memorable songs of the 1990’s, Culture Beat’s “Mr. Vain” remains also one of the most successful euro-dance hits of all time

In 1988 George Michael tops the Hot 100 for the sixth time with “Monkey”

The former Wham! George Michael had a string of solo hit singles during the 1980’s, specially from his 1987 debut solo album “Faith” that is only comparable to Michael Jackson and Whitney Houston

Seal tops the charts worldwide with his No.1 ballad “Kiss from a Rose” in 1995

“Kiss From a Rose” included on the “Batman Forever” soundtrack was originally written by Seal years before its release and the singer-songwriter thought very little of it

The famous instrumental “Apache” by The Shadows peaked to No.1 in 1960

“Apache” remains one of the most recognized and popular instrumental hits today, The Shadows version was released in 1960 and despite the huge success in Europe had little to none impact in the U.S

In 1985 “The Power of Love” gives Huey Lewis and the News first Hot 100 Nº1

The iconic song “Power of Love” by Huey Lewis and the News was written for the popular blockbuster 1985 movie “Back to the Future,” it became so popular it gave the band their first Hot 100 Nº1

In 1980 David Bowie wraps up the seventies with “Ashes to Ashes”

“Ashes To Ashes” the lead single from “Scary Monsters (And Super Creeps)” peaked to No.1 in the U.K but flopped in the U.S, according to David Bowie, the song was his way to “wrapping up the seventies”

Revisiting The Beatles 1966 “Yellow Submarine”/”Eleanor Rigby” coupled single

Both “Yellow Submarine” and “Eleanor Rigby” by The Beatles have interesting backgrounds and are absolute classics. The two songs were put together on a double A side single in 1966 that peaked to No.1

The Beatles Last Photo Session

On August 22, 1969, in Tittenhurst Park, the Fab Four gathered together for their very last photo session

Madonna scores another No.1 in 1987 with “Who’s That Girl”

“Who’s That Girl” was featured in the soundtrack of the movie “Who’s That Girl” starring the singer

Tears For Fears’ Roland Orzabal turns 64

Roland Orzabal co-founded Tears for Fears, the 1980’s synth pop duo that had several hits including “Shout” and “Everybody Wants to Rule the World”

The Bangles drummer Debbi Peterson turns 64

Debbi Peterson became popular as the drummer for The Bangles and additionally she also sang lead vocals on two of the band’s released singles

The Top 10 Clash Songs

Joe Strummer, one of the leading figures of the Punk Rock movement, was born on 21 August 1952. He formed and fronted The Clash between 1976 and 1986, leaving a valuable legacy in Rock music that remains fresh and continues to influence new generations

“Please Mr. Postman” by the Marvelettes is released in 1961

“Please Mr. Postman” by the Marvelettes is notable for being the first Motown hit reaching the Hot 100 No.1

Remembering Johnny Nash

Nash’s biggest success came in 1972 with the release of “I Can See Clearly Now,” a reggae-influenced pop song that topped the charts

Top 10 John Deacon Queen songs

The quiet and talented John Deacon was never too much fond of the spotlight, not even when Queen was performing for tens of thousands of people, the bassist and composer was born 75 years ago today in 1951

Pop singer and songwriter Mika turns 42

Since the release of his debut album “Life in Cartoon Motion” in 2007, Lebanese-born singer and songwriter Mika has been praised by the critics as one of the best contemporary Pop music artists

“Careless Whisper,” the debut solo single of George Michael climbs the charts in 1984

How did George Michael felt about his debut solo single “Careless Whisper”, one of the 1980’s absolute Pop classics, that peaked to No.1 on August 18, 1984

1980’s Pop sensation Belinda Carlisle turns 67

Belinda Carlisle scored huge worldwide hits with songs such as “Heaven Is a Place on Earth” during the 1980’s. The former lead singer of the Go-Go’s turns 67 today, leaving behind a well-hidden life of excess in exchange of spiritual peace

Top 10 2000’s and 2010’s Defining Madonna songs

Madonna’s last two decades of music might not have produced a string of iconic hit songs such as it did during the 1980’s and the 1990’s, but despite that, she remains on the top of the game as the indisputable Queen of Pop

Top 10 1990’s Defining Madonna songs

After a successful decade that introduced her to the mainstream and put her on the throne of Pop music as the Queen, Madonna would seem to have a problem adapting to the new era of the 1990’s to match her previous success, but for her, between eroticism and mysticism, this was a piece of cake

Top 10 1980’s Defining Madonna songs

During the 1980’s, together with Michael Jackson and Prince, Madonna ruled the music charts worldwide. Hit after hit, she paved an unique way that remains memorable and influential

Madonna: The Absolute Queen of Pop 67th Birthday

Madonna Louise Ciccone doesn’t need introductions, the living legend who was born on August 16, 1958, turns an amazing 67th birthday today. We pay tribute to the absolute Queen of Pop with several special features on Pop Expresso including photo galleries, lists of her most defining songs, insights on some of her big hits and also Quizzes

Sonny & Cher peak to No.1 with their classic “I Got You Babe” in 1965

One of Pop’s most famous songs, “I Got You Babe” by Sonny & Cher, sold in the U.S alone more than 1 million copies and peaked to the Hot 100 No.1 on August 14, 1965

Former lead singer of The Undertones and a 1980’s one hit wonder Feargal Sharkey turns 67

In 1985, former lead singer of The Undertones Feargal Sharkey topped the charts with “A Good Heart,” in 1991 he abandoned his career to work in the business side of the music industry

The Lovin’ Spoonful hit the top of the charts in 1966 with “Summer in the City”

Prior to “Summer in the City,” the Lovin’ Spoonful of John Sebastian already had hit the charts with songs including the also classic “Daydream”

The Culture Club guitarist and co-founder Roy Hay celebrates 64

Hay’s guitar work and keyboard skills were integral to the band’s sound, which blended pop, rock, reggae, and soul and scored several hits during the 1980s including “Karma Chameleon” and “Do You Really Want to Hurt Me?”

The singer-songwriter Tanita Tikaram turns 56

In 1988 at age 19 Tanita Tikaram scored two major hit singles with “Twist in My Sobriety” and “Good Tradition” from her debut album “Ancient Heart.” She’d never repeat the same success again but remains an active musician and singer

Influential experimental jazz guitarist Pat Metheny turns 71

The acclaimed Pat Metheny, who in 1985 collaborated with David Bowie in the hit song “This Is Not America,” has won 20 Grammy Awards, being the only person ever to win that desirable music award in 10 different categories

Remembering the singer-songwriter Eric Carmen

Eric Carmen’s solo career took off with the release of his self-titled debut album in 1975. The album featured the hit single “All by Myself,” a power ballad that Carmen composed based on a theme from Rachmaninoff’s Piano Concerto No. 2. The song became a massive hit, reaching number two on the Billboard Hot 100

Ray Parker Jr. hits No.1 in 1984 with “Ghostbusters,” the theme song from the Ivan Reitman blockbuster

Despite “Ghostbusters” remaining one of the 1980’s biggest worldwide hits and defining songs, it was wrapped in plagiarism controversy

Remembering The Ronettes’ Ronnie Spector

During the 1960’s Ronnie Spector gave voice to memorable songs such as “Be My Baby” as the lead singer of the girl band The Ronettes. She was born 82 years ago today

Tom Jones hits the top of the charts around the world in 1968 with the controversial murder-ballad “Delilah”

In order for today’s society to be able to think and analyze the fact that a 1968 song that trivializes the idea of murdering a woman can still remain so popular today, we have to put up in perspective history and the 1960’s and 1970’s society as well as the once very trendy “murder ballad” genre, and “Delilah” is despite all the controversy one of the greatest Pop songs ever made

The last concert of Queen with Freddie Mercury

Witnessed by 120.000 people, Queen’s Magic Tour final date took place on August 9, 1986, at Knebworth Park, and it became Freddie Mercury’s final performance with the band

Scott McKenzie’s “San Francisco (Be Sure to Wear Some Flowers in Your Hair)” peaks to No.1 in 1967

Written by John Phillips of The Mamas & the Papas to promote Monterey International Pop Music Scott McKenzie’s “San Francisco (Be Sure to Wear Some Flowers in Your Hair)” became a serious smash hit in 1967

The legendary Whitney Houston was born 62 years ago

Whitney Houston was the most awarded female act of all time with 200 million records sold worldwide, one of music’s greatest voices, she passed away aged only 48. We remember her exceptional life and career, and her voice and music through the concert Live in Japan, 1990, today that marks her 62nd birthday

U2’s The Edge turns 64

The Edge’s guitar playing has become one of the most important parts of U2’s distinctive and influential sound which still inspires new generations of musicians today

Madonna earns her 10th Hot 100 No.1 in 1992 with “This Used to Be My Playground”

“This Used to Be My Playground” was composed to be used as the theme song of the movie “A League of Their Own” starring Madonna but end up not being included on the movie’s soundtrack album

In 1983 Dexy’s Midnight Runners top the charts with “Come on Eileen”

Dexy’s Midnight Runners’ “Come on Ellen” peaked to No.1 both in the UK and U.S charts, and is now regarded as a 1980’s absolute classic, but contrary to what it seems, Eileen was not about a girl

Elton John and Kiki Dee top the charts in August 1976 with their Motown tribute “Don’t Go Breaking My Heart”

Despite an already very successful career, it wasn’t up until 1976 that Elton got his first UK No. 1, but in the U.S was his sixth, peaking to the top of the Hot 100 on August 7 of that year

Yazz and the Plastic Population goes No. 1 across Europe in 1988 with their House music version of “The Only Way is Up”

“The Only Way is Up” hit the top of the U.K charts on August 6, 1988, where it remained for five weeks, but contrary to what many think, it wasn’t originally performed or released by Yazz

In 1974 the Eurovision Song Contest winning song “Waterloo” skyrocketed ABBA to international stardom

“Waterloo” by ABBA, remains the biggest international hit that came out from the Eurovision Song Contest, and in 1974 skyrocketed ABBA to international stardom

Looking back at the influential and iconic Louis Armstrong and five of his best songs

To talk about Pop Culture, Jazz and overall music in the 20th century and not mentioning Louis “Satchmo” Armstrong, would be ignoring history. Born on this day in 1901, Armstrong crossed over race and classes in a highly segregated period of the United States due to his talent as a trumpeter, composer, vocalist, occasional actor and also his charisma and achieved worldwide fame, performing as a household name in legendary stages all over the world throughout his influential career

Billboard debut the Hot 100 chart on this day in 1958

Find out which artist and song was the first Billboard Hot 100 No.1 and some of the songs that have stayed the longest period on the main world reference music chart

In 1985 Madonna peaks to No.1 in the UK for the first time with “Into The Groove”

Released on July 23, 1985, “Into the Groove” remains one of Madonna’s most popular and memorable songs, and a 1980’s dance anthem

Peter Cetera peaks to No.1 with “The Karate Kid II” theme song “Glory of Love” on this day in 1986

Initially composed to be featured on “Rocky IV,” “Glory of Love” end up being former Chicago lead singer Peter Cetera most memorable solo hit. On August 2, 1986, it peaked to No.1

Norman Cook aka Fatboy Slim turns 62 today

In the mid-1990s, Cook adopted the moniker Fatboy Slim and his 1998 album, “You’ve Come a Long Way, Baby,” catapulted him to international fame, featuring hit singles like “The Rockafeller Skank,” “Praise You,” and “Right Here, Right Now”

The unique Kate Bush turns 67

The unique British singer Kate Bush is one of the most unique and recognizable voices over the last 40 years

The celebrated singer-songwriter Paul Anka turns 84

Anka is one of the most popular and famous singers and songwriters of the 20th century, and his big break came in 1957 with the release of his first major hit, “Diana” written when he was just 15 years old

In 1965 The Beatles influential second movie “Help!” premiered at the London Pavilion Theater

A pioneer of Rock music films or movies, “Help!” originally titled “Eight Arms to Hold You,” The Beatles second adventure into cinematics premiered on July 29, 1965, at the London Pavilion Theater in the West End of London

Eurythmics peak to No.1 in 1985 with their Gospel inspired song “There Must Be an Angel (Playing with My Heart)”

Despite the string of hit singles that Eurythmics had throughout the 1980’s, “There Must Be an Angel (Playing with My Heart)” was their only UK No.1 and marked a turning point on their career

Singer-songwriter Bobbie Gentry turns 83

Gentry’s breakthrough came in 1967 with the release of “Ode to Billie Joe,” a song she wrote and recorded that became an instant hit, and that together with “I’ll Never Fall in Love Again,” earned her top places in the mainstream charts despite the artist’s association with Country music

Mama Cass Elliot releases her first solo single “Dream a Little Dream of Me” in 1968

“Dream a Little Dream of Me”, a cover of a 1931 classic, was officially recorded by the Mamas & the Papas and included on their final album “The Papas & The Mamas” in 1968 but Dunhill Records decided to promote Mama Cass alone much to the displeasure of the band

In July 1987 Peter Gabriel peaks to No.1 at the US Hot 100 with “Sledgehammer”

The former Genesis frontman already had scored a hit with “Games Without Frontiers” and with “Sledgehammer” solidified his solo career during the 1980’s

“(They Long to Be) Close to You” gave the Carpenters their first No.1 in 1970

Originally recorded by artists such as Dionne Warwick “(They Long to Be) Close to You” by the Carpenters peaked to No.1 on July 25, 1970

The Supremes released “You Can’t Hurry Love” on this day in 1966

“You Can’t Hurry Love” by the Supremes remains one of the 1960’s absolute classics and a Motown signature song, it was released on July 25, 1966

Roy Orbison gets his first major hit in 1960 with “Only the Lonely (Know the Way I Feel)”

Roy Orbison’s distinctive haunting song “Only the Lonely (Know the Way I Feel)” peaked to No.2 on the Hot 100 on July 25, 1960, it was his first major hit and showcased his surprisingly powerful voice

Cat Stevens turns 77

Cat Stevens, now Yusuf Islam, penned memorable songs such as “Wild World” and “The First Cut Is the Deepest,” during the 1960’s and 1970’s released several acclaimed albums and has in recent years returned to do music after an almost 30 years hiatus. He turns 77 today

Kim Carnes turns 80 today

Kim Carnes gave memorable vocals to the 1981 hit “Bette Davis Eyes” and later also to the U.S.A For Africa “We Are the World.” She has led a successful singer-songwriter career since the 1960’s that still keeps going strong

Celebrate the birthday of Brian May revisiting The Top 10 Greatest Queen Live Performances

Today the legendary Brian May turns 78, look back at The Top 10 Greatest Queen Live Performances during the Freddie Mercury era

In 1986 Genesis get their first and only U.S No.1 with Pop hit “Invisible Touch”

“Invisible Touch” introduced the band to a younger audience through its characteristic 1980’s Pop beat, it became one of the band’s most popular songs, however, without the same praise as their 1970’s Prog Rock material

Teen singer Brenda Lee peaks to No.1 at the US Hot 100 with “I’m Sorry”

“I’m Sorry” projected Brenda Lee to a major contemporary international following with her songs also being recorded by other artists around the world in different languages, resulting in her becoming one of the earliest international pop stars

In 1967 David Bowie releases the single “Love You till Tuesday”

Just like his 1967 self-titled debut album and all his previous singles, “Love You till Tuesday” by David Bowie failed to break into the British charts despite being praised by critics

In 1986 Madonna peaks to No.1 once again with her hit song “Papa Don’t Preach”

The controversial lyrical subject of “Papa Don’t Preach” caused Madonna’s first conflict with the Vatican, as it dealt with teenage pregnancy and abortion. It remains one of the 1980’s absolute classics and an all-time fan favorite

The spectacular Live Aid took place on this day in 1985

Held on July 13, 1985, at simultaneously at Wembley Stadium in London, England and at the John F. Kennedy Stadium in Philadelphia, U.S. Live Aid featured a never-before-seen parade of Pop and Rock artists including Queen, Led Zeppelin, Black Sabbath, Madonna, Wham! Elton John, Paul McCartney, Mick Jagger, David Bowie and Bob Dylan among many others

In 1985, Duran Duran peak to No.1 with their James Bond theme “A View To A Kill”

“A View to a Kill” remains the only James Bond theme song to have reached number 1 on the Hot 100, it provided Duran Duran with one of their biggest hits

Remembering the singer Mel Appleby from the 1980’s British duo Mel and Kim

Produced by the hit team Stock Aitken Waterman, Mel and Kim’s debut single, “Showing Out (Get Fresh at the Weekend),” released in 1986, quickly climbed the charts, reaching the top 10 in the UK and several other countries

The singer-songwriter Suzanne Vega celebrates 66 today

With a career spanning over four decades, Vega continues to be a vital and relevant voice in the music industry, and her memorable song “Luka,” about child abuse told from the perspective of a young boy, that received widespread acclaim and charted internationally, continues as relevant today as it was when first released in 1987

For the first and last time, The Police scores a No.1 at the US Hot 100 with their hit “Every Breath You Take” in 1983

First released in 1983, The Police’s “Every Breath You Take” remains so popular today that in 2010 was estimated to generate between a quarter and a third of Sting’s music publishing income

In 1987, the 17-year-old Glenn Medeiros peaks to No.1 on charts worldwide with the Pop ballad “Nothing’s Gonna Change My Love for You”

The young singer recorded the most memorable version of the George Benson’s song topping the charts in several countries, including the UK on July 9, 1987

Soft Cell singer Marc Almond turns 68

Marc Almond might still be best remembered for Soft Cell’s smash hit “Tainted Love” in 1981, but the singer has had a fulfilling and creative solo career since 1984, releasing until now 26 albums. He turns 68 today

The Scottish singer Jim Kerr turns 66 today

The Scottish singer Jim Kerr, voice of the Simple Minds who scored 1980’s hit songs such as “Don’t You Forget About Me” and “Alive and Kicking”. turns 66 today

Beck celebrates 55 today

Beck’s breakout moment came with the release of the single “Loser” in 1993 that became an unexpected hit and quickly propelled him into the spotlight gaining attention for his innovative and lo-fi recordings, which combined elements of folk, rock, hip-hop, and electronic music

Donny Osmond peaks to No.1 in 1972 with “Puppy Love”

Originally written by Paul Anka in 1960 for Annette Funicello, “Puppy Love” was revived by Donny Osmond twelve years later in 1972. Learn how popular the young Osmond version became

Remembering the Depeche Mode co-founder and keyboardist Andy Fletcher

As a co-founder and member of one of the world’s most popular and influential bands, Depeche Mode, Andy Fletcher’s career was filled with countless hit songs including “Just Can’t Enough,” “Strangelove,” “Enjoy the Silence,” “Personal Jesus,” “Dream On,” “Master and Servant” and “Everything Counts.” Fletcher was born on this day 64 years ago.

Singer Joan Osborne turns 63 today

Joan Osborne is best remembered by her 1995 hit “One of Us,” despite not been able to duplicate the success she had with that song, she continues to release new music and keeps active on the music business

Ringo Starr is 85 today and we look back at the 11 Beatles songs where he sung lead

The Beatle Ringo turns 85 today and always had one song reserved for him on every Beatles album. These are all the 11 songs ordered by popularity and endurance

Clive Jackson of Doctor and The Medics turns 64 today

Today, Clive Jackson is a name that doesn’t immediately rings a bell, but many of us still remembers his band Doctor and The Medics who had a big hit in 1986 with their cover of the 1969 Norman Greenbaum’s song “Spirit in the Sky.” He turns 64 today

In 1984 Prince gets his first U.S No.1 with “When Doves Cry”

As most of Prince’s songs from that period, “When Doves Cry” topped the charts worldwide. In the U.S, it peaked to No.1 on July 7, 1984

The Village People construction worker David Hodo turns 78

From 1978 to 2013, Hodo secured his place in Pop Culture as the construction worker character in the group Village People, he was born on this day in 1947

In 1972 David Bowie changes Pop and Rock music forever with his “Starman” performance at Top of the Pops

When Bowie embodied Ziggy Stardust and performed “Starman,” he influenced just about every future major British music star that was watching the TV at that minute

Huey Lewis celebrates 75 today

The band Huey Lewis and the News are known for their infectious blend of rock, pop, and rhythm and blues and scored several hits during the 1980’s including “I Want a New Drug,” “The Power of Love” and “Stuck With You”

Remembering the soulful singer and songwriter Bill Withers

Bill Withers’ catalog is rich with songs that resonate due to their simplicity and emotional depth including the timeless hit “Ain’t No Sunshine”

The Beach Boys get their first No.1 hit in 1964 with “I Get Around”

On May 11, 1964, The Beach Boys released the single “I Get Around,” backed with “Don’t Worry Baby”, one of the 1960’s most recognizable songs

Rod Stewart gets his last UK No.1 in 1983 with “Baby Jane”

During the 1980’s, Stewart left behind his Blues and Rock roots in favor of modern synth pop music, his most successful single was “Baby Jane,” released in 1983

The Top 10 Blondie songs on the iconic Debbie Harry birthday

Debbie Harry wrote her name in the history of Rock as one of the most charismatic and popular female Rock singers of all time. With Blondie she had an impressive string of hit singles that remain timeless. Today, the iconic singer turns 80 and we look back at Blondie’s Top 10 songs

The Australian singer John Farnham turns 76

John Farnham is mostly remembered around the world for his 1986 hit “You’re the Voice,” but the Australian singer had already an established career before that and after in Australia. Today he turns 76

The British band 10CC signature song “I’m Not In Love” peaks to No.1 at the UK singles charts in 1975

Released in May 1975, “I’m Not In Love” remains the British band 10CC signature song and one of the most popular Pop hits of all time

Remembering Little Eva on her birthday

Despite being remembered mostly for her 1962 No.1 hit “The Loco-Motion,” Little Eva inspired and is the subject of another very famous song that was a hit for The Crystals

How well do you know David Bowie?

Test your David Bowie knowledge on this quiz about the life and career of the ultimate Pop icon!

On this day in 1986 Wham! wrote the final chapter on their history

“I think it should be the most amicable split in pop history.” said George Michael announcing the breakup of Pop duo Wham! On the same day of their farewell concert at Wembley Stadium, their final single “The Edge of Heaven” also peaked to No.1 on the UK singles charts

Terri Nunn, the frontwoman of the band Berlin, celebrates 64 today

Berlin’s 1986 hit “Take My Breath Away,” featured in the blockbuster film “Top Gun,” catapulted the band to international fame and won an Academy Award for Best Original Song, remaining today as one of the most iconic tracks of the 1980s

Chris Isaak turns 69 today

Musician, singer and actor, Chris Isaak, gained worldwide projection also due to his hit songs such as “Wicked Game” and his extensive collaboration with David Lynch throughout the years. He turns 69 today

1980’s British boy band Bros score their only UK No.1 in 1988 with “I Owe You Nothing”

1980’s British boy band Bros debut album “Push” featured a string of hit singles for them that included “I Owe You Nothing” and all tough they never broke through in the US but did make #10 on the Billboard dance chart

Singer-songwriter Carly Simon turns 82 today

Carly Simon is the author and singer of one of Pop music’s most mysterious songs “You’re So Vain.” Over the years she has scored several hit songs and always kept a low profile despite her huge success. Today she turns 82

George Michael 62nd Anniversary Special

The Pop icon and legend George Michael would have turned 62 today. To celebrate his life, we’ve put together six articles previously published including album reviews, a quiz, a photo gallery and an intimate look

George Michael: A style and fashion icon in photographs

For four decades George Michael influenced not just music but also fashion and style, Pop Expresso put together some of George’s best and most iconic photographs to celebrate his life and contribution to Pop Culture

Quiz! How Well Do You Know George Michael?

How well do you know George Michael? Do the quiz and find out if you are a fantastic fan!

Revisiting George Michael’s “Listen Without Prejudice Vol.1”

The second George Michael’s solo album “Listen Without Prejudice Vol.1,” released on September 3rd, 1990, didn’t achieved the same success as its predecessor “Faith” from 1987, but it’s among one of his finest albums

Revisiting George Michael’s 1987 masterpiece “Faith”

George Michael’s solo debut “Faith,” released on October 30th, 1987, it’s the album that established him as an acclaimed solo entity and separated him drastically from the Wham! bubblegum 80’s pop

The 1980’s hit singer Glenn Medeiros turns 54 today

Medeiros’s big break came in 1986 when, at the age of 16, he won a local radio station’s talent contest with a cover of George Benson’s “Nothing’s Gonna Change My Love for You” which became a worldwide hit, reaching number 12 on the Billboard Hot 100

Remembering the original fifth Beatle Stuart Sutcliffe

Sutcliffe joined The Beatles in 1960, becoming the band’s original bassist and his charisma and distinct sense of style helped shape The Beatles’ early image before his untimely death at age 21

Pop icon Cyndi Lauper turns 72 today

Singer, actress and LGBT activist, Cyndi Lauper is one of the 1980’s absolute Pop icons, with her colorful and eccentric looks, she gained worldwide fame with songs such as “Girls Just Want to Have Fun.” Time flies when girls are having fun, today she turns 72

Bronski Beat and The Communards lead singer Jimmy Somerville turns 64 today

Jimmy Somerville scored several hits with Bronski Beat, The Communards and as a solo artist during the 1980’s. One of Pop’s most unique voices, he turns 64 today

Bryan Adams peaks to No.1 on the Hot 100 with “Heaven” in 1985

Featured on his best-selling and critically acclaimed 1984 album “Reckless,” “Heaven” was released as a single in 1985 and it still stands as one of Bryan Adams most popular songs today

The Kinks’ Ray Davies turns 81

With The Kinks, Ray Davies sung and played on some of the most memorable songs of the 1960’s and 1970’s. The band, “outsiders” on the British Invasion music scene, influenced important music movements such as Punk Rock and Britpop and remain relevant ever since their hit “You Really Got Me” played for the first time. Ray Davies turns 81 today

Lionel Richie turns 76

Lionel Richie popularity remains untouchable since he first became famous as the lead singer for the Commodores back in the 1970’s. He co-wrote “We Are the World” and some of the most memorable Pop anthems of the 1980’s, today he turns 76

Boys on film: Top 15 Duran Duran songs and music videos with John Taylor who turns 65 today

John Taylor is one of the most successful figures to come out of the 1980’s New Wave and New Romantic movement, good looks aren’t everything, but for Duran Duran allied with their talent, certainly helped them to rule the 1980’s as the most popular New Wave band in the world with a string of hit songs and music videos. John Taylor turns 65 today

Paula Abdul celebrates 63 today

In the mid-1980s, Abdul choreographed music videos for prominent artists such as George Michael and Janet Jackson and transitioned successfully into a singing career in 1988 with her debut album, “Forever Your Girl” that included several global hits such as “Straight Up”

The British singer-songwriter Alison Moyet celebrates 64 today

Known for her powerful contralto voice, Moyet scored several hits throughout her career including “Don’t Go” and “Only You” as the singer for Yazoo and “Is This Love?” as a solo artist

The Paul McCartney Top 25 Beatles Songs

Paul McCartney’s songwriting partnership with John Lennon while in The Beatles during the 1960’s, it’s the most famous in Pop and Rock music history. Celebrate Paul McCartney’s 83rd birthday, with the Top 25 Beatles songs featuring him on lead vocals

The Paul McCartney Top 15 Songs

Paul McCartney is one of the very few people on the planet that barely needs any introduction. The former Beatle turns 83 today and we celebrate it with his Top 15 best non-Beatles related songs

Paul McCartney: A glimpse at his life in photographs

Paul McCartney is one of the very few people on the planet that barely needs any introduction. The former Beatle was born on 18 June 1942 in Liverpool, England. We look back at his life on photographs

Thinking of Françoise Hardy

If France Gall was the ultimate wind-up doll, Sylvie Vartan the fun-loving girl about town and Sheila the good-natured girl next door, then Françoise was the older, wiser sister, happy to let her (long, straight) hair down when the time was right but otherwise content to watch the world, standing (in the latest fashionable attire) slightly apart, off to one side, looking on as the parade passed by

French Yé-Yé and Rock icon Johnny Hallyday was born on this day in 1943

The first French Rock Star, Johnny Hallyday was seen as a “national monument” in France. He emerged during the early 1960’s part of French culture and music movement Yé-Yé. With over 110 million records sold worldwide, Hallyday had a successful career that only was stopped by illness towards the end of his life

The unique Greek singer and performer Demis Roussos was born on this day in 1946

Demis Roussos achieved the peak of his popularity during the 1970’s with songs such as “Forever and Ever,” a No.1 on the UK singles charts, but despite his success and popularity in Europe, he was never able to replicate the same in other parts of the world. We look back at his career on the day he would have turned 79

Singer-songwriter Nilsson was born on this day in 1941

With the 1969 “Midnight Cowboy” movie theme “Everybody’s Talking” Nilsson scored his first big hit. During the 1970’s, he became one of the most popular singer-songwriters while at the same indulging in excess together with John Lennon. Nilsson was born 84 years ago

Celebrate the Pop icon Boy George anniversary with Top 10 Culture Club songs

One of Pop’s most controversial figures, the unique and iconic Boy George turns 64 today. With Culture Club he scored the biggest music hits of his career, and we look back at it through a musical and visual journey with the Top 10 Culture Club songs

Boy George: A Pop Chameleon in Photos

Boy George emerged during the early 1980’s from the post-punk movement named New Romantic, through his music and looks he broke down barriers and destroyed prejudice. Take look back at his influential and inspiring career in photographs

The Eclectic Soundscape of António Variações: A beacon of uniqueness, color and creativity in Portuguese Music

In the vibrant tapestry of Portuguese music, António Variações stands out with his fearless exploration of gender and sexuality, flamboyant style and flair and gender-bending aesthetic that defied categorization during the early 1980s. He passed away at 39 on this day in 1984

Brian Wilson 1942-2025

Regarded as one of the biggest composers of the 20th century, the Beach Boys co-founder and mastermind Brian Wilson passed away at age 82. Brian was the last survivor of the Wilson brothers that formed the Beach Boys, Carl and Dennis Wilson.

The British singer Mark Shaw celebrates 64 today

He remains best known as the lead singer of the British rock band Then Jerico who scored several hits during the 1980’s including “The Big Area”

The Simply Red frontman Mick Hucknall turns 65 today

In 1985, Mick Hucknall formed Simply Red, a band that blended soul, pop, and jazz influences and scored global hits including “Holding Back the Years” and “Stars”

The British singer and actress Julie Driscoll turns 78 today

Julie Driscoll remains best known for her work with Brian Auger and the Trinity. Their rendition of Bob Dylan’s “This Wheel’s on Fire” became a major hit in 1968, reaching the top five on the UK Singles Chart

The Milli Vanilli’s Rob Pilatus was born 60 years ago today

Rob Pilatus “sold” his soul to the devil when he agreed to serve as a public face to another singer, after a quick rise to international success he found an even more quick decline that contributed to his untimely death at age 32. He was born on this day in 1965

Duran Duran founding member and keyboardist Nick Rhodes turns 63 today

Nick Rhodes founded Duran Duran in 1978 and together with John Taylor has been the only constant member on it

Bonnie Tyler turns 74 today

Bonnie Tyler’s signature song remains the 1983 “Total Eclipse of the Heart,” but the husky voice singer scored several other hit songs throughout the decades. Today she turns 74

The iconic Nancy Sinatra turns 85 today

With “These Boots Are Made for Walkin'” Nancy Sinatra created a popular and enduring image of the Swinging Sixties, today she turns 85

Tears For Fears score their first U.S No.1 in 1985 with “Everybody Wants To Rule The World”

The No.1 hit remains one of the most popular from the 1980’s, it was a success worldwide when it was first released and together with “Shout” it’s one of Tears For Fears signature songs

Dolly Parton quickly peaks to No.1 with her country ballad “I Will Always Love You” in 1974

Released on June 6, 1974, the country ballad “I Will Always Love You” remains Dolly Parton’s signature song, learn more about the background of this famous ballad

Tom Jones turns 85 today

Tom Jones career has now spanned six decades, and he has literally done everything in the music business, from hit singer to Variety shows to Las Vegas appearances and even as a coach in The Voice on recent years. Today the “Delilah” singer turns 85

Remembering the legendary music genius Prince with his Top 20 songs

Prince Rogers Nelson was born 67 years ago, one of the absolute pop music geniuses of all times, he left behind a diverse and enormous body of work. We remember Prince with the list of his 20 best and most popular songs

Ten of the best songs from The Mamas & The Papas featuring Michelle Phillips

The Mamas & The Papas went separate ways towards the beginning of the 1970’s, but songs such as “Monday, Monday” or “California Dreamin'” remain as popular as ever. To celebrate Michelle Phillips 81st birthday here’s ten of the best songs from The Mamas & The Papas

Wham! gets their first No.1 single in 1984 with “Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go”

“Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go” it’s one of the most popular and recognizable songs of all time, it provided Wham! with their first No.1 in 1984

The Top 12 Rolling Stones songs with Ronnie Wood

Ronnie Wood joined the Rolling Stones in 1974; he was the third full-time guitarist in the band after founding member Brian Jones and Mick Taylor. We’ve put together the Top 12 Rolling Stones songs with Ronnie Wood today that he turns 78

Former Pop teen idol Jason Donovan turns 57 today

Australian actor and singer Jason Donovan scored a string of hit singles during the late 1980’s and early 1990’s including his duet with “Neighbours” co-star Kylie Minogue “Especially for You.” Today he turns 57

On this day in 1968 “Mrs. Robinson” by Simon & Garfunkel peaks to No.1 on the Hot 100

“Mrs. Robinson” by Simon & Garfunkel was first made available as part of the soundtrack of the 1967 movie “The Graduate,” in 1968 the song peaked to No.1 on the Hot 100 and became a worldwide hit for the duo

The Baroque Pop of David Bowie’s 1967 debut album

Hated by many, the David Bowie self-titled debut it’s essentially a baroque-pop album with hints of Psychedelic and Vaudeville Music Hall and a selection of songs that are notable for a 20-year-old songwriter

The singer Pat Boone celebrates 91 today

Boone’s career took off in the mid-1950s when he began recording cover versions of popular R&B hits

Alanis Morissette turns 51 today

In 1995, Morissette released “Jagged Little Pill,” an album that catapulted her to international fame and sold over 33 million copies worldwide

The Canadian singer-songwriter Corey Hart celebrates 63 today

During the 1980’s Hart scored worldwide hits such as “Sunglasses at Night” and “Never Surrender”

Remembering Roxette’s Marie Fredriksson born 67 years ago today

The Swedish singer had a string of hit singles during the 1980’s and 1990’s with Roxette. She passed away in 2019 at age 61

Former Fine Young Cannibals lead singer Roland Gift turns 63

During the 1980’s, British band Fine Young Cannibals had a string of worldwide hit singles that started in 1985, including a double No.1 position on the US singles chart. Charismatic lead singer Roland Gift turns 63 today

Pop music icon Kylie Minogue turns 57

The singer and actress Kylie Minogue started her career while still a teenager during the 1980’s, scoring No.1 hits with the penned Stock Aitken Waterman’s “I Should Be So Lucky” and “Got to Be Certain.” Today she turns 57

Lenny Kravitz turns 61 today

The successful Kravitz’s blend of retro and contemporary sounds have produced major hits including “Are You Gonna Go My Way” and “It Ain’t Over ’til It’s Over”

Lauryn Hill celebrates 50 today

In the 1990’s together with Wyclef Jean and Pras Michel she formed the hip-hop group the Fugees that scored worldwide hits including a unique version of the song “Killing Me Softly with His Song”

Remembering Peggy Lee on her birthday

Lee’s versatility extended beyond singing and she made significant contributions to the film industry, most notably by providing the voice for several characters and co-writing songs for Disney’s “Lady and the Tramp” (1955)

Top 10 songs of the unique Stevie Nicks

Being as part of Fleetwood Mac or as a solo artist, Stevie Nicks, with her distinctive vocals, charisma, and charm, have been gracing the music world over the last 40 years. We celebrate the “gold dust woman’s” 77th birthday with her Top 10 songs

Procol Harum’s classic “A Whiter Shade of Pale” enters the UK singles charts for the first time in 1967

It’s one of the anthems for the 1967 Summer of Love, the popular Bach-derived Psychedelic Rock “A Whiter Shade of Pale” entered the charts for the first time on this day in 1967. Learn more about this music classic

Remembering the pioneer of electronic music Robert Moog

The Moog synthesizer gained widespread acclaim in the late 1960s and 1970s, thanks in part to its use by pioneering musicians and bands

The legendary lyricist Bernie Taupin celebrates 75 today

Taupin and Elton John’s collaboration has produced some of the most iconic songs of the 20th century

Remembering the Chanson legend Charles Aznavour

The French singer Charles Aznavour is celebrated for his vast catalog of songs that span over seven decades. He was born on this day in 1924

In 1977 benefiting from BBC’s will to stop the Sex Pistols, Rod Stewart tops the charts with “I Don’t Want to Talk About It”

With his unique raspy vocals, Rod Stewart turned “I Don’t Want to Talk About It” into a song of its own, topping the charts in 1977

British Pop legend Leo Sayer turns 77 today

Leo Sayer achieved significant success throughout the 1970s with a string of memorable hits including “You Make Me Feel Like Dancing” and “When I Need You”

David Bowie invites the world to dance in 1983 when he tops the charts with the single “Let’s Dance”

The 1980’s weren’t overall the best David Bowie period, creatively blocked, the influential artist, was still able to pull one of his career’s best-selling and most popular songs with the 1983 “Let’s Dance”

The Soulful Voice of Rock and Blues: Remembering Joe Cocker

Known for his gritty voice and passionate delivery, Joe Cocker became one of the most iconic singers in rock and blues history. He was born on this day in 1944

The iconic Goddess of Pop Cher celebrates 79 today

From a shy young girl to the “Goddess of Pop” Cher has had a remarkable career spanning over six decades

Guess the Lyrics: Cher

The iconic Cher turns 79. Since the 1960’s that she has recorded some of Pop music’s most memorable songs, alongside with her acting skills. How well do you know the Pop Diva lyrics? Do the quiz and find out!

The Amazing Miss Grace Jones

Over the last 40 years, many were the artists that were pointed as Queens of Pop, but despite never having scored strings of hits and sold millions of records, the amazing Grace Jones may be the righteous Queen and turns 77 today

The once House music British star Yazz turns 65 today

In 1988 Yazz had a smash hit with “The Only Way Is Up”, an early House music hit that reached No.1 in the U.K. 37 years later, find out what Yazz is doing these days

On this day in 1990 Madonna “Vogue” to No.1 at the U.S Hot 100

One of Madonna’s most popular songs and a smash hit during the early 1990’s, “Vogue” reached No.1 in 30 countries, on this day in 1990, peaked to the top of the U.S Hot 100

The singer Martika turns 56 today

In 1988 Martika scored a worldwide hit with the song “Toy Soldiers”

The former Milli Vanilli Fabrice Morvan celebrates 59 today

In the late 1980’s Morvan embarked on a journey that would take him from the heights of pop stardom to the depths of a scandal that rocked the music industry

Janet Jackson celebrates 59 today

In the late 1980s and early 1990s, Jackson released a string of groundbreaking albums and hit singles that turned her together with her older brother Michael on the two most successful solo artists of the Jackson family

Remembering Trini Lopez

His breakout hit, “If I Had a Hammer,” released in 1963, became an international sensation, earning Lopez a Grammy nomination

The groundbreaking progressive rock legend Mike Oldfield turns 72 today

One of Oldfield’s most memorable works, “Tubular Bells,” remains a landmark in the history of music, known for its haunting melodies and innovative use of layered instrumentation

Ten of the Best Stevie Wonder songs

With a career that has spanned for over 60 years, Stevie Wonder has composed some of Soul, Funk and Pop best songs. The once Motown child prodigy and one of the biggest music composers turns 75 today

The Eurovision legend Johnny Logan celebrates 71 today

In 1987, he made history by becoming the first artist to win the popular contest twice as both a singer and a songwriter

In 1984, with “Hello” Lionel Richie gives people what their looking for

It’s one of the 1980’s most memorable songs, and in recent years, one of it’s most parodied too, but in 1984, Lionel Richie’s “Hello” was one of the biggest hits of the year

The Scottish Psychedelic Folk singer and songwriter Donovan turns 79 today

Donovan composed and interpreted some of the most memorable 1960’s anthems, we look back some of the highlights of his career today that he turns 79

Falco gets his first and only No.1 in the U.K with “Rock Me Amadeus” in 1986

“Rock Me Amadeus” it’s one of the most iconic songs of the 1980’s, it was a one-of-a-kind success for Austrian singer Falco and reached No.1 on the hard English and American markets

In 1986 Pet Shop Boys peaks to No.1 on the U.S Hot 100 with “West End Girls”

A synthpop classic, “West End Girls” remains of Pet Shop Boys greatest hits, it was No.1 on the U.S Hot 100 on May 10, 1986

Depeche Mode’s frontman Dave Gahan turns 63 today

Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, Depeche Mode solidified their place as pioneers of electronic music, releasing a string of critically acclaimed albums and chart-topping singles

The legendary singer-songwriter Billy Joel celebrates 76 today

Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, Joel released a string of hit albums and singles, including “The Stranger,” “52nd Street,” and “An Innocent Man.”

Starship tops the charts worldwide in 1987 with the “Mannequin” theme “Nothing’s Gonna Stop Us Now”

By the 1980’s, several once popular artists from the 1960’s had either vanished, died or simply lost their popularity for good, but that wasn’t the case for Grace Slick who got another No.1 in 1987 with “Nothing’s Gonna Stop Us Now”

In 1981, New Romantics Adam and the Ants debuted on the UK singles charts on No.1 with “Stand and Deliver”

“Stand And Deliver” was the first major hit by New Romantic/New Wave British band Adam and the Ants

The Blur drummer Dave Rowntree turns 61 today

Throughout the 1990s, Blur released critically acclaimed albums, including “The Great Escape” (1995) and “Blur” (1997), which spawned hits like “Country House” and “Song 2”

The Eagles top the charts with “Hotel California” in 1977

Either an allegory about hedonism, self-destruction, and greed, or simply just a statement about finding your path in life, “Hotel California” remains one of the greatest songs ever made

In 1966, with “Monday, Monday” The Mamas and the Papas peak to No.1 for the first and last time on the U.S Hot 100

Despite all the memorable hits and chart success, The Mamas and the Papas only achieved No.1 on the U.S Hot 100 with one song, “Monday, Monday”

New Romantic band Spandau Ballet scores their biggest hit worldwide with “True” in 1983

“True” remains Spandau Ballet’s biggest hit and their only major hit in the U.S. reaching number four on the Billboard Hot 100 in the autumn of 1983

Terence Trent D’Arby successfully peaks to No.1 on the U.S Hot 100 in 1988 with “Wishing Well”

With his unique combination of 1960’s Soul and 1980’s Pop, Terence Trent D’Arby was the next big thing between 1987 and 1988

The Kinks release their finest Pop single “Waterloo Sunset” in 1967

After becoming famous as one of the loudest Rock bands of the mid-1960’s, The Kinks released one of their most melodic Pop songs ever in 1967, “Waterloo Sunset,” but the song was initially not written about London

Duran Duran scores another No.1 in 1984 with “The Reflex”

Released as the third single of their 1984 album “Seven and the Ragged Tiger,” “The Reflex” peaked to No.1 on May 5 and gave Duran Duran their biggest international hit

ABBA’s first smash hit “Waterloo” peaks to No.1 on this day in 1974

On April 1974, the Swedish group ABBA won the 19th edition of the Eurovision Song Contest, little over a month later, ABBA were worldwide superstars with “Waterloo”

The singer Frankie Valli turns 91 today

Throughout the 1960s and 1970s, Valli and The Four Seasons dominated the airwaves with songs such as “Big Girls Don’t Cry” earning widespread acclaim and establishing themselves as one of the most successful vocal groups of all time

Former Apple star and Beatles “protégé” Mary Hopkin turns 75 today

Welsh singer Mary Hopkin is not a name that resonates with many people today. However, she played a rather important role in pop music during the late 1960s and 1970s, being a protégé of the Beatles and a collaborator with David Bowie.

Lesley Gore, the voice of the 1960’s hit “It’s My Party” was born on this day in 1946

Lesley Gore was one of the most successful teen acts of the early 1960’s, she became famous with the smash hit “It’s My Party,” which she remains heavily associated with, later in life she became an activist for LGBT rights. Gore was born on this day 79 years ago

The British singer Engelbert Humperdinck turns 89 today

His early hits, including his Nº 1 signature song “Release Me,” and “The Last Waltz,” skyrocketed to the top of the charts during the 1960’s

Cutting Crew peak to No.1 in 1987 on the US Hot 100 with the power ballad “(I Just) Died in Your Arms”

The British band Cutting Crew had their first and only US No.1 with the memorable 1986 power ballad “(I Just) Died in Your Arms.” Learn some interesting facts about the song.

The singer and songwriter Ray Parker Jr. celebrates 71

In 1984, Parker released the iconic theme song for the blockbuster film “Ghostbusters,” which became an instant sensation and earned him international acclaim

The folk music legend Judy Collins celebrates 86

Her ethereal vocals and poignant interpretations of traditional folk songs captivated audiences and garnered widespread acclaim

Michael Jackson peaks to No.1 with “Beat It” in 1983

“Beat It” holds a special place on Pop culture and music history, it remains one of Michael Jackson’s most memorable songs and on this day in 1983 it peaked to No.1 on the US Hot 100

The legendary hit maker Tommy James celebrates 78 today

Throughout the 1960s and 1970s, Tommy James and the Shondells created hit after hit, with songs like “I Think We’re Alone Now,” “Mony Mony,” “Crimson and Clover,” and “Crystal Blue Persuasion”

The legendary Willie Nelson celebrates 92 today

With a career spanning over six decades, Willie Nelson has been captivating audiences with his soulful voice, poignant songwriting, and unmistakable guitar playing ever since the beginning of his career

The French Yé-Yé icon Jacques Dutronc turns 82 today

Due to his sense of fashion, his looks, style and original music compositions, Jacques Dutronc quickly became an Icon, filling pages of the French magazine “Salut Les Copains” with stylish photographs

The B-52s iconic singer Kate Pierson celebrates 77

Pierson’s distinctive vocals, characterized by her powerhouse voice and signature vibrato, helped define the B-52s’s sound and set them apart from their contemporaries

Sheena Easton, the Grammy-winning Scottish singer, celebrates 66 today

The singer had several memorable hit songs throughout her career including “Morning Train (Nine to Five)” and “We’ve Got Tonight” in duet with Kenny Rogers

Sandie Shaw peaks to No.1 across Europe with her Eurovision Song Contest winning song “Puppet on a String”

In 1967, one of the most memorable songs to have won the Eurovision Song Contest in Europe, “Puppet on a String” by Sandie Shaw achieved global sales in excess of 4 million

The Electronic Pop music genius Giorgio Moroder turns 85 today

Giorgio Moroder’s career has been filled with hit upon hit, he has been awarded Oscars, Grammys and even Golden Globes and, he is responsible for some of the most memorable Electronic Pop music songs ever. We look back at his impressive career

Dusty Springfield scores her first and only No.1 in the UK in 1966 with “You Don’t Have to Say You Love Me”

“You Don’t Have to Say You Love Me” remains Dusty Springfield only No.1 single in the UK. The song, which was a cover of an Italian original, peaked at the top of the UK charts on this day in 1966

Duran Duran’s drummer Roger Taylor was born on this day in 1960

Roger Taylor shares his name with another famous drummer, but this Taylor is the original drummer for Duran Duran. He was born on this day in 1960

The former Marillion lead singer Fish celebrates 67 today

After joining Marillion in 1981, with his distinctive voice and poetic lyrics, he quickly became the focal point of the band’s success. Marillion’s debut album, “Script for a Jester’s Tear,” released in 1983

Paul McCartney and Stevie Wonder reach No.1 in 1982 with “Ebony and Ivory”

“Ebony and Ivory” tackles issues of racial equality, and gave Stevie Wonder and Paul McCartney one of the biggest hits of their careers

The Jackson Five kicks The Beatles out of the US Hot 100 No.1 with “ABC” on this day in 1970

Released on February 24, 1970, “ABC” remains one of the Jackson Five most memorable and signature songs. It reached No.1 on April 25, 1970

The legendary jazz singer “Lady Ella” Fitzgerald was born 108 years ago today

Ella Fitzgerald was born in Virginia but was raised in New York where she gained a taste for jazz music. The Queen of Jazz was born on this day in 1917

The Blondie bassist Nigel Harrison celebrates 74 today

In 1974 he played bass on Iggy Pop’s first solo performance and did session work for acts like The Runaways before being recruited into Blondie in 1977

Peter Frampton celebrates 75 today

His career reached stratospheric heights in 1976 with the double‑live album “Frampton Comes Alive!,” which captured the Grammy‑nominated hits “Show Me the Way,” “Baby, I Love Your Way” and “Do You Feel Like We Do,” and made him one of the world’s best‑selling artists of the decade

The former British 1980’s pop band Bros bassist Craig Logan celebrates 56

Logan first rose to prominence in the late 1980s as the original bassist in the British pop trio Bros, whose debut EP helped define the UK’s independent pop music scene

The legendary Roy Orbison was born 89 years ago today

With a blending of Country music and Rock N’ Roll together with his eerie vocals, Roy Orbison created a unique and sometimes haunting signature sound that has influenced several artists over the years

Madonna peaks to No.1 in 1989 with her controversial song “Like A Prayer”

In 1989 Madonna released “Like A Prayer” which remains to this day one of the singer’s most controversial songs

The Cure’s Robert Smith turns 66 today

The Cure scored several hit songs throughout the 1980’s and 1990’s with their unique blend of Post Punk, Goth Rock and Pop music. They are still as relevant and popular today as they were back then. Robert Smith, co-founder and lead singer turns 66 today

“We Are the World” by USA For Africa, went No.1 on the US Hot 100 on this day in 1985

The all-star group of singers and musicians USA For Africa, was the American response to the British Band Aid. Their iconic and memorable song “We Are the World” peaked to No.1 on this day in 1985

Mark Volman of The Turtles turns 78 today

During the late 1960’s Volman scored hits as a member of The Turtles with songs such as “Happy Together” and “Eleanore” and later became also a member of Frank Zappa’s The Mothers of Invention. Today he turns 78

The legendary and impressive Rock producer and engineer Eddie Kramer turns 83

Eddie Kramer has one of the most impressive careers in Rock music. Since the 1960’s his collaborations as producer and engineer with names such as Jimi Hendrix, Led Zeppelin, KISS, The Rolling Stones and Blue Cheer among many others, have earned him a big place on Rock N’ Roll history.

Prince kisses the Hot 100 No.1 with “Kiss” on this day in 1986

“Kiss” remains one of Prince’s signature songs and one of his best-selling singles. It reached No.1 at the Hot 100 on this day in 1986

George Michael gets his second solo No.1 with “A Different Corner” in 1986

Released in April 1986, “A Different Corner” denounces the already musical maturity of George Michael as a composer and distances itself from Wham! Pop smash hits. The song, served as a catalyst for his solo career

George Michael and Aretha Franklin duet “I Knew You Were Waiting (For Me)” peaks to No.1 on the U.S Hot 100 in 1987

“I Knew You Were Waiting (For Me)” by George Michael and Aretha Franklin, it’s one of the 1980’s most memorable songs and duets

The Wham! backing vocalist Shirlie Holliman of duo Pepsi & Shirlie turns 63 today

Shirlie Holliman became famous as part of the Pepsi & Shirlie duo, the backing vocalists for Wham! Today, the singer turns 63

Remembering Dusty Springfield

Dusty’s solo career took off in late 1963 with the buoyant single “I Only Want to Be with You,” which cemented her status as Britain’s leading blue‑eyed soul singer, scoring several hits across the 1960s and 1970s including “You Don’t Have to Say You Love Me”

In 1969 a Reggae based song hits No.1 for the first time in the U.K. “Israelites” by Desmond Dekker and The Aces, blend Reggae and Pop in a perfect union

During the 1960’s, Reggae was considered a music style strictly oriented to the Jamaican audiences, but towards the end of the decade, Desmond Dekker helped it get noticed by the mainstream with his hit “Israelites”

Remembering the former model and Madonna’s “protégé” Nick Kamen

Kamen first got noticed during the mid 1980’s for his performance in Levi’s “Launderette” television commercial, later scoring a hit with Madonna’s song “Each Time You Break My Heart”

The talented singer-songwriter Linda Perry turns 60

Linda Perry rose to fame during the 1990’s with the Alternative Rock anthem “What’s Up” unique songwriting talent, led her to write and produce songs for an impressive number of artists from many different genres including Pink, Courtney Love and even Enrique Iglesias

The 1980’s British bombshell Samantha Fox turns 59

Singer Samantha Fox first became popular in her home country as a topless model on Page 3 of British tabloid newspaper The Sun

The Bee Gees release their first international hit “New York mining Disaster 1941” in 1967

The Bee Gees might be today best remembered for their Disco string of smash hits during the late 1970’s; however, the brothers Gibb had a completely different songwriting perspective and hits in the late 1960’s

David Bowie and the importance of the 1972 “Starman” single release to his career

Historically, “Starman” it’s a turning point on Bowie’s career and it was almost an instant hit to Bowie, not only in the U.K but worldwide

In 1967 David Bowie releases the eerie single “The Laughing Gnome”

One of David Bowie’s most eerie songs and singles, “The Laughing Gnome” was first released as a novelty single by Deram Records on April 14, 1967

In 1967 Frank Sinatra and daughter Nancy Sinatra release their famous No.1 hit duet “Somethin’ Stupid”

“Somethin’ Stupid” wasn’t perhaps the most appropriate subject to be sung in a duet between father and daughter, but it became one of the most popular songs of all time when it was released by Frank and Nancy

The Village People “G. I” and “sailor” Alex Briley turns 78 today

Alex Briley became famous as The Village People G.I soldier during the late 1970’s. He was part of the original line up of the popular band, today he turns 78

The peculiar Tiny Tim was born 93 years ago today

The unique Tiny Tim had a voice that is still remembered to this day as one of the most peculiar to have landed in the mainstream Pop music world. We look back at his life and career on the day he was born, 93 years ago today

The British singer and songwriter Lisa Stansfield celebrates 59 today

Stansfield launched her solo career with the debut album “Affection” in 1989 which featured the hit single “All Around the World,” that topped charts internationally and showcased her soulful voice

The NME Poll Winners Awards of 1965, “the greatest pop show in the world”

On April 11, 1965, after having gathered in 1964 The Beatles, Rolling Stones, The Hollies and Roy Orbison among others, NME reunited again on the same night an amazing line up of performers

In 1988 “Get Outta My Dreams, Get into My Car” peaks to No.1 and marks the end of Billy Ocean’s 1980’s string of Pop hits

Billy Ocean had a very successful career throughout the 1980’s decade and some of his songs remain popular to this day. In 1988, he released he peaked No.1 on the US Hot 100 for the last time with “Get Outta My Dreams, Get into My Car”

Remembering the Belgian singer, songwriter and poet Jacques Brel

Brel’s breakthrough came in the mid-1950s with his unique blend of poetic lyrics, theatrical delivery, and deeply emotional storytelling in songs like “Ne me quitte pas” and “Amsterdam”

Clem Burke 1954-1975

In 1985 Wham! became the first western Pop music band to play live in China

In March 1985, while touring to promote their second album “Make It Big,” Wham”! made music history when they included China on the tour dates. They played the first concert of their 10-day visit there on April 7, 1985

The “Lady Day” Billie Holiday was born on this day in 1915

Known as “Lady Day,” Billie Holiday was born in 1915 and despite her untimely death at age 44, she remains one of the most influential and most famous names in jazz music and music in general to this day. We look back at her career

The Beatles peak to No.1 with “Let It Be” on the Hot 100 in 1970

Released in March 1970 “Let It Be” was one of The Beatles final releases as a band and had a quick rise to No.1 on music charts worldwide

David Bowie releases “Drive-In Saturday” in 1973

The lyrics features multiple references to notable names including Mick Jagger, model Twiggy and Carl Jung describes how the inhabitants of a post-apocalyptic world in the future have forgotten how to make love

The singer-songwriter Alan Clarke celebrates 83 today

Clarke Remains best known as a founding member and the original lead singer of the British rock band The Hollies

The American singer-songwriter Stan Ridgeway celebrates 71 today

In 1983, Ridgway embarked on a solo career, releasing his debut album, “The Big Heat,” in 1986. The album included the single “Camouflage,” a storytelling song that became a top five hit in the UK and was widely successful across Europe

In 1975 Minnie Riperton peaks to No.1 on the U.S Hot 100 with Stevie Wonder’s produced “Lovin’ You”

On April 5, 1975, “Lovin’ You” peaked to No.1 on the U.S Hot 100, and it’s regarded as one of the first songs to top the Hot 100 chart without the help of a percussion instrument

The singer-songwriter Gregory Abbott celebrates 71 today

In 1986, Abbott released his debut album, “Shake You Down,” featuring the title track that became a platinum-selling hit, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100

In 1964 The Beatles earn their fourth No.1 in the U.K with the record-breaking “Can’t Buy Me Love”

By the time McCartney’s “Can’t Buy Me Love” reached No.1 in the U.S, The Beatles held the entire top five on the Hot 100

Remembering the Prince of Soul, Marvin Gaye

The legendary Marvin Gaye was pivotal in taking Soul music to the mainstream during the 1960’s. He released several memorable songs such as “I Heard It Through the Grapevine,” “Mercy Mercy Me (The Ecology”), “What’s Going On” and “Sexual Healing” among others. His life was cut short at the age of 44 by his own father. We look back at his career on what would have been his 86th birthday

In 1977 ABBA once again top the charts with “Knowing Me, Knowing You”

By 1977 ABBA were no strangers to success, after delivering a string of hit singles one after another. Their song “Knowing Me, Knowing You” was no exception

Serge Gainsbourg: A Life Dedicated to Music, Poetry, Art, Women and Controversy

Serge Gainsbourg was born on April 2, 1928, 97 years ago. He lived a lifetime dedicated to life’s best things, with high dosages of scandal and controversy mixed along with his unique genius for writing poetry and music. We look back at the life and career of this French icon.

In praise of Michel Polnareff

A superstar in his native land for nearly sixty years, a colossal star in Japan, but despite living for many years in the United States, Michel Polnareff is disappointingly little-known in the English-speaking world.

The legendary Herb Alpert celebrates 90

In 1962, Alpert co-founded A&M Records with Jerry Moss, which became one of the most successful independent record labels. That same year, he formed Herb Alpert & the Tijuana Brass, achieving widespread acclaim with their unique blend of jazz, Latin, and pop influences

Kenny Loggins hits No.1 on the US Hot 100 with “Footloose” in 1984

“Footloose” is a truly 1980’s Pop music classic that became Loggin’s most memorable song when it was included as the theme song for the movie of the same name in 1984

Celine Dion celebrates 57

Dion gained international recognition after winning the 1988 Eurovision Song Contest, representing Switzerland with the song “Ne partez pas sans moi,” but it wasn’t up until the 1990s that Dion ascended to global superstardom. Her albums “Falling into You” and “Let’s Talk About Love” each sold over 30 million copies worldwide, and with the 1997 “My Heart Will Go On,” the theme song for the film “Titanic,” she earned an Academy Award for Best Original Song

The singer-songwriter Norah Jones celebrates 46

The daughter of the legendary Ravi Shankar, in 2002 she released her debut album, “Come Away with Me,” whose intimate blend of jazz, pop and soul struck a chord worldwide—earning five Grammy Awards, including Album of the Year, and selling over 27 million copies

In 1963 The Chiffons peaks to No.1 with their doo wop hit “He’s So Fine”

“He’s So Fine” it’s a definitive 1960’s classic, but The Chiffons No.1 song was later on the origin of a lawsuit against former Beatle George Harrison during the 1970’s

Stop! It’s MC Hammer’s birthday

“Stop! Hammertime” became one of the most popular and used expressions ever in Pop Culture, all credit goes to MC Hammer when he first used it on his smash hit “U Can’t Touch This”. The artist that brought Rap to the worldwide masses and had one of the quickest risings and falls in the music industry turns 63 today. We look back at his career

Folk singer and artist Tracy Chapman turns 61 today

Tracy Chapman’s beautifully crafted modern folk songs marked the difference back in the 1980’s. She put Folk and simple songs back in the charts just like Bob Dylan and Joan Baez had made it back in the 60’s. We look back at her career today that she turns 61

On this day in 1970, Simon & Garfunkel goes No.1 with their now classic “Bridge Over Troubled Water”

Side by side with “The Sound of Silence,” “Bridge Over Troubled Water” it’s one of Simon & Garfunkel most popular songs to this day. It went No.1 on both the US and UK charts

Blondie makes the top of the Hot 100 with their groundbreaking song “Rapture” in 1981

“Rapture” was notable for being one of the first Pop/Rock blends with Rap and Hip Hop, released in 1981, it was the first song featuring rap to reach No.1

Mariah Carey celebrates 56

Throughout the 1990s, Carey solidified her status as a leading artist with albums like “Emotions,” “Music Box” and “Daydream,” scoring multiple worldwide hits including “Hero” and “Without You”

Duran Duran earns their first No.1 in 1983 with “Is There Something I Should Know?”

Viewed as the head of the early 1980’s British New Romantic music movement, Duran Duran became one of the best-selling and successful Pop bands of all time

Watch The Beatles Top Of The Pops debut as it was originally broadcast in 1964

In 1964 at the height of the Beatlemania, The Beatles finally make their debut appearance on the popular BBC show Top of The Pops, but as it was practice back then by BBC, the original tapes were erased

In 1967 The Turtles knock The Beatles out of the US Hot 100 No.1 with “Happy Together”

“Happy Together” by The Turtles remains one of the most memorable pop songs of the 1960’s

The best 20 Elton John songs

Controversial, talented and a world class entertainer, Elton John turns 78 years old, to celebrate it, look back at 20 of his very best songs, from his 70’s classics to the shift into 80’s modern pop beats and throughout his return during the 1990’s and 21st century to the classic formula that first made him famous

Bee Gees get their 8th US No.1 hit with “Tragedy” in 1979

Released as a single supporting their album “Spirits Having Flown”, “Tragedy” provided the Bee Gees with their 8th No.1 in the US on this day in 1979

German singer Nena turns 65 today

As the lead singer for the German new wave band Nena, she had a string of hits during the 1980’s, even topping the US Hot 100 to No.2 with the smash hit “99 Red Balloons.” We look back at her life her career on the day she turns 65

The Scottish band Wet Wet Wet lead singer Marti Pellow celebrates 60

Wet Wet Wet achieved significant success throughout the late 1980s and 1990s, with hits like “Wishing I Was Lucky,” “Sweet Little Mystery,” and their cover of The Troggs’ “Love Is All Around,” which remained at the top of the UK Singles Chart for 15 consecutive weeks in 1994

Chaka Khan celebrates 72

In the early 1970s, Chaka Khan joined the funk band Rufus as their lead vocalist, delivering several successful albums and singles, including “Sweet Thing” and “Ain’t Nobody” and later launching her own successful solo career

Blur lead singer Damon Albarn turns 57 today

Blur were responsible for several 1990’s hit songs including “Girls & Boys,” Damon Albarn, founder, and lead singer turns 57 today

Remembering The Cars founder and lead singer Ric Ocasek

The Cars had a string of hits during the late 1970’s and 1980’s including “Drive,” lead singer Ric Ocasek was born 81 years ago today

The Level 42 co-vocalist and keyboardist Mike Lindup celebrates 66

In 1980, Lindup co-founded Level 42 alongside Mark King and brothers Phil and Boon Gould. The band gained international acclaim for their jazz-funk and pop-rock fusion, producing hits like “Lessons in Love”

The Walker Brothers get their second No.1 in 1966 with “The Sun Ain’t Gonna Shine Anymore”

Originally released in 1965 as a single titled “The Sun Ain’t Gonna Shine (Anymore)” by Four Seasons member Frankie Valli, The Walker Brothers version turned out to be most popular and became a hit worldwide

Otis Redding posthumously released single “(Sittin’ On) The Dock of the Bay” peaks to No.1 on this day in 1968

The song, that Redding intended “(Sittin’ On) The Dock of the Bay” to be different from all his previous work, though he didn’t have time to finish it the way he wanted, it became his most popular release selling 4 million copies worldwide after his untimely death in 1967. Read more facts about this classic

The singer Rockwell celebrates 61

The son of Motown Records founder Berry Gordy, Rockwell’s 1984 debut single, “Somebody’s Watching Me,” featuring guest vocals by Michael Jackson remains one of the most memorable 1980s hits

The controversial Beach Boy Mike Love turns 84 today

Mike Love his often regarded as a malign figure in the Beach Boys history despite the enormous musical contributions he had made for the band that includes some of their biggest hits. Today he turns 84

Terence Trent D’Arby turns 63 today

Terence Trent D’Arby had a string of hit singles during the late 1980’s including “Sign Your Name” with his acclaimed debut album “Introducing the Hardline According to Terence Trent D’Arby,” today, the singer that has changed his name to Sananda Francesco Maitreya, turns 63

Remembering Quincy Jones

Record producer, actor, conductor, arranger, composer, musician, television producer, film producer, instrumentalist, magazine founder, entertainment company executive, and humanitarian, Quincy Jones was one of the most powerful and acclaimed figures of music and showbiz.

In 1987 Boy George peaks to No.1 for the first and only time

In 1987 freshly departed from Culture Club, Boy George scores his only No.1 with a cover of the 1972 Bread song “Everything I Own”

Remembering Scatman John

In the 1970s and 1980s, John Larkin established himself as a jazz pianist in Los Angeles, however, it wasn’t until the 1990s that he achieved international fame when he released the worldwide dance hit “Scatman (Ski-Ba-Bop-Ba-Dop-Bop)” in 1994 under the name Scatman John

The singer and songwriter Neil Sedaka celebrates 86

Throughout his career, Sedaka has written or co-written over 500 songs, with his work recorded by legends like Frank Sinatra and Elvis Presley

Remembering the music legend Al Jarreau

Al Jarreau was known for his versatile vocal style, seamlessly blending elements of jazz, pop, and R&B

Swedish 90’s hitmakers Ace Of Base climb to No.1 at the U.S Hot 100 in 1994 with “The Sign”

Sweden always been prodigal in presenting to the world Pop music hitmakers and 1993, another Swedish Pop act was getting ready to rule the charts worldwide, Ace of Base with “The Sign”

Singer-songwriter James Taylor turns 77 today

Singer-songwriter James Taylor creates music that combines folk, rock and pop sensibilities. His hit songs include “Fire and Rain” and “Shower the People.”

Tom Jones gets the first of his many No.1 hits on this day in 1965 with “It’s Not Unusual”

Tom Jones was one of the biggest hitmakers on Pop music. His first No.1 “It’s Not Unusual” wasn’t originally written for him, find out who declined the song in his favor

Kate Bush debut single “Wuthering Heights” peaks to No.1 on this day in 1978

Kate Bush became the first female artist to have a self-penned number one hit in the UK with “Wuthering Heights.” Learn more about the rising of one of Pop’s most weary songs

Bobby McFerrin turns 75 today

Bobby McFerrin was born March 11, 1950, in New York, NY. He is best known for his song, “Don’t Worry Be Happy” which reached No.1 in the U.S Hot 100 on September 24th, 1988

In 1989 Jason Donovan hits the UK singles charts No.1 with the Stock, Aitken and Waterman “Too Many Broken Hearts”

“Too Many Broken Hearts” by Jason Donovan was one of 1989 biggest hits across Europe, however, it failed to reach the American market

The English singer Tina Charles celebrates 71

Charles’s solo career soared in 1976 with the release of the disco classic “I Love to Love (But My Baby Loves to Dance)”

In 1979, the iconic Disco hit “I Will Survive” by Gloria Gaynor reaches No.1 on the Hot 100 on this day

“I Will Survive” remains one of the most popular Disco songs ever made. It gave Gloria Gaynor No.1 on the U.S Hot 100 on March 10, 1979

The ABC lead singer Martin Fry celebrates 67

ABC achieved significant success in the early 1980s with hits like “Poison Arrow,” “The Look of Love,” and “All of My Heart”

Dead Or Alive smash hit “You Spin Me Round (Like A Record)” was No.1 on this day in 1985

For some, the Dead Or Alive song defines the 1980’s Pop music, it became one of the most played songs worldwide and remains to this day a dance staple

REO Speedwagon’s power ballad “Can’t Fight This Feeling” climbs to No.1 on the U.S Hot 100 on this day in 1985

Together with the 1981 “Keep on Loving You,” REO Speedwagon’s power ballad “Can’t Fight This Feeling” remains the band’s most memorable song, scoring high on music charts around the world

The Monkees’ Michael Dolenz turns 80 today

Michael Dolenz reached the peak of his success worldwide as a member of 1960’s American Pop sensation The Monkees, he was born on this day in 1945

1980’s hit maker Taylor Dayne was born on this day in 1962

Taylor Dayne scored her first major hit when her 1987 debut single “Tell It to My Heart” that became a worldwide hit. Today, the singer turns 63

Ernie Isley celebrates 73

Ernie Isley officially joined The Isley Brothers in 1973, contributing heavily to their transformation from a vocal harmony group into a powerful, instrument-driven band

27 years ago, today Madonna scores another No.1 with the electronic ballad “Frozen”

“Frozen” was the first single taken out Madonna’s “Ray of Light” album

Eddy Grant turns 77 today

The Guyanese British vocalist and musician Eddy Grant delivered smash hits throughout his career including “Baby Come Back” (with the Equals) and “Electric Avenue”

Michael Jackson climbs to No.1 on the US Hot 100 in 1983 with his smash hit “Billie Jean”

The iconic pop song “Billie Jean” hides a very disturbing story behind its lyrics, find out what it is

In 2000 Madonna climbs to No.1 in the UK singles charts with “American Pie”

The famous 1972 Don McLean hit “American Pie” went through a severe mutation when in March 2000 Madonna releases her own version of it as a single

The English actor and musician Murray Head celebrates 79 today

Murray Head, first gained attention in the music world with his early singles in the 1960s but wasn’t until 1984 that he achieved his biggest commercial success with the single “One Night in Bangkok” from the musical Chess

Remembering Andy Gibb

Andy Gibb was the youngest brother of the famed Bee Gees and during the late 1970s quickly became a teen sensation, known for his smooth voice, youthful charm, and disco-influenced pop sound

The Rolling Stones scored their fourth U.S No.1 in 1967 with “Ruby Tuesday”

The song, coupled as double A-side single with the risqué “Let’s Spend the Night Together”, remains one of the Stones biggest hits, read some interesting facts on who actually wrote it and who was Ruby Tuesday

Bee Gees get their 4th UK No.1 hit with “Tragedy” in 1979

“Tragedy” peaked to No.1 in the UK singles charts on March 3, 1979, and soon after it knocked “I Will Survive” by Gloria Gaynor off the top spot in the US

Jennifer Warnes celebrates 78 today

Despite her memorable songs, hits and collaborations since the 1970s, it was her collaboration with Bill Medley on the hit song “(I’ve Had) The Time of My Life,” from the 1987 film Dirty Dancing, that catapulted her into global fame

In 1984 German New Wave band Nena score a surprising No.1 on the UK singles charts with “99 Red Balloons”

As a New Wave German band who sung German, Nena had very little chances to breakthrough the U.S and U.K music markets, but surprisingly, in 1984 they entered Pop music’s history

Karen Carpenter was born 75 years ago today

With The Carpenters, Karen scored a string of worldwide Pop music hits throughout the 1970’s including “We’ve Only Just Begun” and “Rainy Days and Mondays”

Oasis hit No.1 at the UK singles charts in 1996 with the “beatlesque” “Don’t Look Back in Anger”

Released on 19 February 1996 as the fifth single from their 1995 album “(What’s the Story) Morning Glory?” the “beatlesque” “Don’t Look Back in Anger” became one of Oasis’s signature songs

“Release Me” by Engelbert Humperdinck, the surprising single that stopped The Beatles to reach the No.1 in the U.K singles charts in 1967

In 1967, it wasn’t the Rolling Stones, or The Who or The Kinks who prevented The Beatles to reach No.1 in the UK singles charts but Engelbert Humperdinck

Canadian singer Terry Jacks starts a surprising three week run at No.1 on the U.S Hot 100 with “Seasons in the Sun”

The English rewriting of Brel’s “Le Moribond,” “Seasons in the Sun,” sold 14 million copies worldwide, but despite that, it’s still considered by some one of the worst pop songs ever recorded

The British singer-songwriter, composer, and multi-instrumentalist Nik Kershaw celebrates 67 today

Nik Kershaw gained prominence in the 1980s with a series of hit singles including “Wouldn’t It Be Good,” “I Won’t Let the Sun Go Down on Me” and “The Riddle”

Mr.Mister peaks to No.1 at the U.S Hot 100 in 1986 with “Kyrie”

Read some curious facts about the lyrics and meaning of the Mr. Mister’s song “Kyrie”

Michael Bolton celebrates 72 today

In the mid-1970s Bolton cut his teeth as the frontman for hard-rockers Black Oak Arkansas before embarking on a solo career that saw him evolve into one of adult contemporary’s defining voice, scoring hits such as the power-ballad “How Am I Supposed to Live Without You”

Roberta Flack 1937-2025

Roberta Flack was the first and the only solo artist to win the Grammy Award for Record of the Year on two consecutive years. She will be remembered by her #1 singles “The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face” and “Killing Me Softly with His Song” among many others.

Lou Christie was born on this day in 1943 and on the same day in 1966 scored a No.1 with “Lightnin’ Strikes”

On February 19, 1966, the same day he turned 23, Lou Christie scored a No.1 with the now classic “Lightnin’ Strikes.” Today he celebrates two special dates

Kajagoogoo featuring Limahl goes No.1 on this day in 1983 with Pop classic “Too Shy”

“Too Shy” remains the 1980’s British Pop band Kajagoogoo best-known song. It climbed to No.1 on this day in 1983

On this day, 22 years apart, both Harry Nilsson in 1972 and Mariah Carey in 1994, climb to No.1 with Badfinger’s song “Without You”

One of the most famous Pop ballads of all time, “Without You” by Badfinger, has been covered and recorded by over 180 artists, however, was through Harry Nilsson and Mariah Carey that the song met its most famous versions

Austrian Pop Star Falco was born on this day in 1957

Falco achieved international success in 1986 with “Rock Me Amadeus,” an unusual achievement for an Austrian Pop singer, he was born in Vienna on this day in 1957, we look back at his life and career.

Original Duran Duran guitarist Andy Taylor turns 64 today

With Duran Duran, Andy Taylor reached the pinnacle of his success during the 1980’s, but the guitarist has had also a successful solo career collaborating with many other artists and with Power Station back in the 1980’s. Look back at Taylor’s life and career on the day he turns 64

Remembering the artist and politician Sonny Bono on his birthday

Sonny Bono helped to launch Cher’s career with their successful duo Sonny & Cher back in the 1960’s, with a string of hits such as “I Got You Babe” or “The Beat Goes On.” But he also wrote many songs for other artists and had an active acting career and later in his life, also as a politician. Look back at Sonny Bono’s life

We remember and dedicate Sonny & Cher’s “I Got You Babe” to everyone out there on this Valentine’s Day

Love is for everyone and on this Valentine’s Day, it’s for you

Lenny Kravitz scores his first UK No.1 with “Fly Away” on this day in 1999

“Fly Away” became one of Lenny Kravitz’s most popular ones and regarded today as a 90’s classic. We look back at the chart success of the song

Manfred Mann scores a No.1 in the UK on Valentine’s Day 1968 with Dylan’s cover of “The Mighty Quinn”

“The Mighty Quinn” was originally written and recorded as a demo by Bob Dylan in 1967 under a different title, the Manfred Mann version reached No.1 on Valentine’s Day 1968. Learn more about the background of this popular song

The Beatles “Strawberry Fields Forever/Penny Lane” was first released on this day in 1967

The double A-side single release of “Strawberry Fields Forever/Penny Lane” is one of the greatest single releases ever. Simultaneously the beginning and pinnacle of The Beatles Psychedelic period, the importance of the two songs to Pop and Rock music history is undeniable

The creative Peter Gabriel was born on this day in 1950

The Genesis founder and former lead singer Peter Gabriel has had a very successful solo career since the 1970’s and won a big place on Pop Culture’s imagery through his creative music videos. Today he turns 75

Roxette’s Per Gessle turns 66 today

Roxette had an impressive string of hit songs during the late 80’s and early 90’s, the Swedish duo consisting of Per Gessle and Marie Fredriksson, ruled the airwaves around the globe during that period, today, Per turns 66

On this day in 2012 Whitney Houston passed away at age 48

Whitney Houston was the most awarded female act of all time with 200 million records sold worldwide, one of music’s greatest voices, she passed away on this day in 2012 at age only 48. We remember her voice and music through the concert Live in Japan, 1990

David Bowie releases “Sound and Vision” in 1977

On February 11, 1977, one of David Bowie’s most revolutionary and famous songs, “Sound and Vision,” was the first single to be released from the album “Low,” the Experimental Electronic-Rock adventure of the Berlin period. The back vocals on the song were done by a very special singer

Former Frankie Goes To Hollywood lead singer Holly Johnson turns 65 today

Holly Johnson became famous as the lead singer of the controversial 1980’s Pop band Frankie Goes to Hollywood. The voice of “Relax” turns 65 today

In 1992 Right Said Fred peaked to No.1 on the U.S Hot 100 with the 90’s hit “I’m Too Sexy”

One of the 1990’s most successful dance songs, “I’m Too Sexy,” the debut song by British group Right Said Fred, peaked to No.1 on the U.S Hot 100 on February 8, 1992

John Lennon’s first posthumous single “Woman” peaks to No.1 on this day in 1981

“Woman” proved to be one of Lennon’s most popular ones and a sample of where his career could be going during the 1980’s

In 1987 George Michael and Aretha Franklin duet “I Knew You Were Waiting (For Me)” peaks to No.1 around the world

On February 7, 1987, the song gave Aretha Franklin her first and only U.K No.1 and was the 3rd for George Michael after “Careless Whisper” and A Different Corner”

Madonna peaks to No.1 for the 5th time in the U.S Hot 100 on this day in 1987

One of Madonna’s most popular songs, “Open Your Heart” was not originally written for the singer. Find out who rejected the song that became another No.1 hit for Madonna

The Righteous Brothers classic “You’ve Lost That Lovin’ Feelin” became one of the songs of the year on this day in 1965

Written and produced by Phil Spector, “You’ve Lost That Lovin’ Feelin” by The Righteous Brothers went No.1 on the Hot 100 on this day in 1965. The song is still considered the prime example of Phil Spector’s “Wall of Sound”

The 1981 reissued electronic classic “The Model” by Kraftwerk peaks to No.1 on this day in 1982

Originally released as “Das Model” in 1978, the English version of this Kraftwerk classic was reissued in 1981 and climbed to No.1 in 1982 on the UK charts

Rick Astley turns 61 today

The British singer became popular during the late 1980’s with songs such as “Never Gonna Give You Up” produced by the famous team Stock Aitken Waterman, despite that in recent years he’s more famous for the “rickrolling,” his career has been much more than that

Spin Doctors’ lead singer Chris Barron was born on this day in 1968

With the Spin Doctors, Chris Barron reached the pinnacle of his success as a musician during the early 90’s with songs such as “Two Princes,” today he turns 57

Australian singer Natalie Imbruglia was born on this day in 1975

At the age of only 22 in 1997, she rose to international stardom with the song “Torn,” a worldwide hit that made Australian singer Natalie Imbruglia a household name. Today she turns 50

James’ singer Tim Booth was born on this day in 1960

Tim Booth joined James in 1981 as their lead singer and lyricist. During the 1990’s James found an audience for their Alternative Pop Rock sound that featured songs such as “Laid,” “Sit Down” or “Sometimes.” Booth was born 65 years ago today

Remembering Melanie Safka on her birthday

Melanie was often regarded as one hit wonder due to massive success of her song “Lay Down (Candles in the Rain” though her body of work was extensive

Shakira turns 48 today

Shakira has one of the most impressive music careers of the last 25 years, the hot Colombian singer became worldwide famous during the early 2000’s with the song “Whenever, Wherever” and ever since she’s unbeatable. We look back at her career and some interesting facts about Shakira, on the day she turns 48

In 1997 Blur’s single “Beetlebum” debuts at No.1 on the U.K charts

“Beetlebum” is perhaps the most Beatlesque of all Blur songs, according to Stephen Thomas Erlewine of Allmusic, the song “(ran) through the “White Album” in the space of five minutes” – it debuted on No.1 on this day in 1997

“Super Freak” Rick James was born on this day in 1948

Rick James dared to crossover Funk with several different music styles during whole his career, but it was with his 1981 mega-hit “Super Freak” that he became popular. He was born on this day in 1948

Phil Collins turns 74 today

Phil Collins first came to prominence during the 1970’s as the drummer, and later the lead singer, for Prog-Rock band Genesis, achieving a notorious and successful solo career in the 1980’s with a string of hit songs

Some interesting facts about “Down Under” by Men at Work that went No.1 simultaneously on two countries in 1983

“Down Under” by Men at Work it’s one of the 1980’s greatest Pop and Rock songs that put the whole world singing to Australian slang. Read some interesting facts about this iconic song that reached No.1 in several countries around the world between 1982 and 1983

The story behind the George Michael’s No.1 Hit “Jesus to a Child”

On January 29th, 1996, “Jesus to a Child” became his first solo single to enter the UK chart at number one. Read the story behind one of George Michael’s most beautiful songs

Daniel James Turns Back the Hands of Time 35 years after his Instant Replay with Yell!

Daniel James kicks off the 2025 celebration of 35 years since Yell! took over the UK charts with a brand-new self-penned single Promises. It’s an upbeat track that tells the story of one half of a couple who continues to make promises that they never keep, resulting in their partner deciding that they are better off standing tall and realizing they can make it on their own.

The Sigue Sigue Sputnik “Space Cowboy” Martin Degville turns 64 today

The provocative and eccentric Martin Degville came to prominence during the 1980’s as the lead singer and mastermind of the British Electronic/Space Pop band Sigue Sigue Sputnik. We look back at his life and career on the day he turns 64

The other half of Wham! Andrew Ridgeley turns 62: Look back at five of the band’s best songs

Wham! released their debut album at age 19 and scored some of the 1980’s most memorable hits such as “Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go” and “Last Christmas”

In 1965 with the song “Downtown”, Petula Clark becomes the second British female singer to score a No.1 hit on the U.S music charts

The songwriter Tony Harsh was inspired by the New York City downtown when he composed the song “Downtown” and reportedly intended to offer it first to The Drifters. Find out which future Rock legend played guitar on the Petula Clark’s famous song

In 1986 A-ha became the first Norwegian band ever to peak to No.1 on the U.K music charts with “The Sun Always Shines On TV”

Released on December 16, 1985, “The Sun Always Shines On TV” was the third single taken from their debut album “Hunting High and Low” and is regarded as one of their finest songs and for some, far superior to “Take on Me”

Influential singer and songwriter Neil Diamond celebrates 84 – check five of his famous songs that were big hits for other artists

Neil Diamond’s career has been filled with hits not only for him, but for other artists who recorded his songs, from UB40 to Deep Purple

Remembering music legend Sam Cooke

Often called the “architect of soul music,” Sam Cooke paved the way for future artists like Aretha Franklin, Otis Redding, and Marvin Gaye with his ability to blend gospel, soul, and pop music

INXS lead singer Michael Hutchence would have been 65 today

Michael Hutchence’s remains one of the most iconic and charismatic figures in Rock despite his early demise in 1997

Revisiting the classic soundtrack to “Saturday Night Fever”

The soundtrack to the 1977 movie “Saturday Night Fever,” made people dance to the unlikely Beethoven’s “Fifth Symphony.” It’s perhaps the greatest Disco album ever made; we revisit the historical record on the day that it started a 24-week run at No.1 on the U.S albums charts

Transvision Vamp’s singer Wendy James turns 59 today

Transvision Vamp scored several Pop Punk hits during the late 1980’s including “I Want your Love,” their success had much to do with the sex-appeal of singer Wendy James

Rick Evans from Zager and Evans was born on this day in 1943

Rick Evans composed and performed the prophetic song that became a 1969 smash hit “In the Year 2525 (Exordium & Terminus)” while performing on the Folk duo Zager and Evans. He was born 82 years ago today

On this day in 1988 The Beatles were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, but Paul McCartney decided to not show up

When The Beatles were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1988, there was still an ongoing feud among the members that most people weren’t aware of

Remembering Robert Palmer

During the 1980’s Robert Palmer embraced the new MTV trend and went on to make some of the 1980’s most iconic music videos which earned him a new exposure to a younger audience including the famous one for the song “Addicted to Love”

The British singer and songwriter Paul Young celebrates 69 today

Young’s debut solo album, No Parlez (1983), featured hits like “Wherever I Lay My Hat” and “Come Back and Stay,” but it’s the 1985 chart-topping single “Every Time You Go Away” that remains the most memorable of his songs