His first single scored huge on radio and the charts, and Corey Hart became a household name in 1983. The Canadian-born Hart released his debut album, First Offense, and the first single, "Sunglasses At Night", tore up the charts, scoring a #3 on the Canadian charts, and #7 on the US. The album rose to #31 on the charts, and went triple platinum.
In many ways, you can look at Corey Hart's voice as being somewhat definitive for the sound of the 80s. Hart had a soulful and plaintive tone to his voice, a vulnerability despite songs addressing the strength of position. His second album, Boy In The Box, soared even greater, reaching platinum status. It did so in part on the strength of the first single, "Never Surrender", which occupied the #1 slot on the Canadian charts for nine weeks, and topped out at #3 on the US charts.
After this, Hart's popularity waned. with sales declining with each ensuing album release. He did, however, have some success with occasional singles, including 1990's "A Little Love", which went to #9 on the Canadian charts, and #37 in the US.
In 2002, Hart rerecorded "Sunglasses At Night" for a remix that became an immediate hit in clubs throughout Canada and the US. He is now basically retired as a singer, but still writes music. To find out more about Corey Hart, check out his official website here.
I don't think I've ever admitted this: when I bought Sunglasses at Night (on vinyl) I hadn't heard his music and bought it solely for the album cover. Corey Hart was smokin' hot! But when I gave the album a listen he had this wonderfully masculine voice. Thanks for the flashback!
ReplyDeleteAs soon as I saw the tile of this post on my blogroll, I started singing "Sunglasses At Night."
ReplyDeleteThanks for bringing up some good memories!
Of course I can count on you to bring up great memories Howard. I heart Corey, that's for sure.
ReplyDeleteBehr, Very hot indeed. That smookey quality in his voice added to it.
ReplyDeleteBob, glad to do it!
Kyle, thanks!