MARCH of 1982 “Asia” by Asia
In early 1981 with the apparent demise of prog-rock supergroups Yes and Emerson Lake & Palmer, a new supergroup began. With Jon Wetton (King Crimson) on vocals and bass guitar, Steve Howe (Yes) on lead guitar, Geoff Downes (Yes and The Buggles) on keyboards, and Carl Palmer (Emerson, Lake, and Palmer) on drums, Asia began work on this self-titled debut album which would rocket up the charts with a combination of complex musicality and tight, accessible tracks. The continuing popularity of MTV would help propel this supergroup to commercial success that would last beyond The Heat of the Moment. We hope you enjoy these 4 tracks presented by Bruce.
“Only Time Will Tell”
This track written by Downes and Wetton tells a tale of a man leaving the woman he loved after finding out that she was just using him for her own gain. He predicts that she will have a lonely future, but "only time will tell."
“Sole Survivor”
Downes and Wetton wrote most of Asia's songs on the debut album including this one. This deeper cut is a great choice for motivation during training runs - but if you're going out for a bike ride, don't forget your helmet!
“Time Again”
Despite its success, this album received criticism. Prog rock fans panned it for being commercially oriented, and pop music critics considered it too progressive.
“Wildest Dreams”
This is an anti-war song which was a commercial success.
“Theme for Magnum PI” by Mike Post
This was one of Mike Post's many hits from the 80's for television. The detective drama featured Tom Selleck, the lead actor in this TV show, who was originally approached by Steven Spielberg to play the lead in the Indiana Jones movies. Selleck had to turn it down due to his commitment to Magnum PI.
“Run to the Hills” by Iron Maiden
Perhaps the most famous song from heavy metals' Iron Maiden, Wayne describes how this driving track is inspired by the plight of Native Americans.
“867-5309/Jenny” by Tommy Tutone
Perhaps the most famous song from heavy metals' Iron Maiden, Wayne describes how this driving track is inspired by the plight of Native Americans.
“Pretty Woman” by Van Halen
Several songs off Van Halen's Diver Down album were covers, including this one originally written by Roy Orbison. One of Rob's favorites.
“Fantasy” by Aldo Nova
This is the most popular song from Canadian singer and producer Aldo Nova. It's got a killer intro, and Bruce advises you to break out your leopard skin pants, folks!
“Pac Man Fever” by Buckner & Garcia
We finish off with this video game inspired comedy track that reached number 9 on the Billboard charts.
Thanks for listening to “What the Riff?!?”
NOTE: To adjust the loudness of the music or voices, you may adjust the balance on your device. VOICES are stronger in the LEFT channel, and MUSIC is stronger on the RIGHT channel.
Please follow us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/whattheriffpodcast/, and message or email us with what you'd like to hear, what you think of the show, and any rock-worthy memes we can share.
Of course we'd love for you to rate the show in your podcast platform!
**NOTE: What the Riff?!? does not own the rights to any of these songs and we neither sell, nor profit from them. We share them so you can learn about them and purchase them for your own collections.
