The year spanned the second half of my freshman year at college to the first of my sophomore term, with a summer working at home in Delaware in the middle. I was going a good deal of 'finding myself' at this point, really on my own for the first time and having a chance to really reflect on my own thoughts and desires, not what those around me had in mind. And the music that was playing was perfect for that time, a bunch of mindless entertainment, a great deal of fun. There was some dancing to be had, and it got me outta my head. The #5 song on the year-end Billboard chart was Donna Summer's rock song, Hot Stuff. With the guitars bold and strong, and Summer's voice breaking through the music, this was one of my favorites for the year.
In bars and at dances, the next song was the slow dance/make out song of the year. Reunited by Peaches & Herb was all about celebrating the love, with thick syrup, whipped cream, and a cherry on top. Well, maybe no cherry was involved...
The #3 song on the countdown is Do You Think I'm Sexy by Rod Stewart. Up until this point, Rod was a serious rocker, spanning back to his Maggie May days. For many, this was a step too far, moving into the realm of Disco. But for countless others, it was a song made to dancing, and they bought it up.
Making her second appearance in the Top 5, Donna Summer placed #2 with her anthem to naughty women, Bad Girls. The song combined the strong rhythms of the dance floor with the hard sound of rock music to carve out a strong corner of the market for her spectacular voice.
The #1 song of the year was My Sharona by The Knack, a punk-inspired rock/pop feel to a chart dominated by dance music and pop lollipops. lead by the driving drum and hearty guitars, the band scooped up fans like raisins for the bran, and took the top spot for 1979.
The year the Husband & I became a couple... thanks for the trip down memory lane.
ReplyDeleteStephen, ah, yes, you and the hubby. I was single then, so I remember the dancing! LOL
ReplyDeleteEach song is amazing and I remember them well. My brother always had parties which I was too young to attend - but still got a dance or two in to the likes of some 70's dance.
ReplyDeleteMy sis would play Donna Summer - and well - yes - I was a bad girl.
The Knack - I remember that great album cover and this song spending 6 weeks at # 1! The song of the year - well deserved.
Dave Ghrol of Foo Fighters said this is his fave song ever. and the bassline - absolutely killler!