If you were like me, back in the day one of the biggest thrills was to call your favorite radio station. Whether you wanted to request a song, ask when they were giving away concert tickets, or tell your true love you’d never leave them (what was her name, again?), it was an even bigger thrill if you heard your voice being played back over the radio!

Times & technology have changed, and now you can leave a message for us and all the BlackLight Radio listeners right here. Whether you’re on your phone, your tablet, or your PC, as long as you have a microphone hooked up you can give us your thoughts (up to 90 seconds). Request your favorite song, ask about your favorite artist, or just say “hello, world!” to the BlackLight Radio listening audience. Promote your town! Relay your favorite 80s memory.

Before long, you may hear yourself played back on BlackLight Radio! You hear from us every day; now it’s our turn to hear from YOU. Just click the record button below. If you have any issues, email us at inbox@blacklightradio.com.

Shout, shout, let it all out! You can talk to me, even if you’re talking in your sleep. I’m not asking you to talk dirty to me; we couldn’t air that! Just talk, talk. You’ll be the talk of the town! Mama may have said don’t talk to strangers, but we’re your friends at BlackLight Radio. You can talk to us now, and we can talk to ya later. If you think it’s funny, you can baby talk. Just call me; say “hello.” You won’t need a Mr. Telephone Man with modern technology. Even if you just called to say I love you, you won’t have to remember numbers like 867-5309 or 853-5937. No need for an operator here. Others might say, “baby don’t forget my number.” You just don’t forget our website. When you leave a message here, you’re calling America.

…Enough 80s song puns; here’s the record button!

Introduction:

In the vibrant music landscape of the 1980s, the Thompson Twins emerged as a dynamic and influential force in the realm of new wave pop. With their catchy hooks, distinctive fashion sense, and infectious energy, the British trio made their mark on the charts and became a staple of the decade’s pop culture. Let’s delve into the exciting journey of the Thompson Twins and their significant impact on the music scene.

Formation and Early Success:

The Thompson Twins formed in 1977, led by Tom Bailey, Alannah Currie, and Joe Leeway, who embraced an eclectic mix of synth-pop, dance beats, and infectious melodies.

Chart-Topping Hits:

During the 1980s, the Thompson Twins achieved commercial success with a string of chart-topping hits, including "Hold Me Now," "Lies," and "Doctor! Doctor!" Their energetic and infectious singles resonated with audiences worldwide.

Experimental Sound:

The band fearlessly explored various musical styles and genres, infusing elements of funk, reggae, and world music into their infectious pop sound. This experimentation allowed them to stand out from their contemporaries.

Colorful Aesthetics:

Beyond their music, the Thompson Twins embraced a vibrant and visually striking image. Their unique fashion sense, characterized by bright colors, quirky hairstyles, and distinct makeup, added to their allure and made them style icons of the era.

Innovative Songwriting:

The Thompson Twins' songs were marked by catchy hooks, memorable choruses, and introspective lyrics. They skillfully captured the essence of relationships, self-discovery, and societal themes, resonating with listeners on a deeper level.

Dynamic Live Performances:

The band's live performances were renowned for their high energy and charismatic stage presence. Tom Bailey's dynamic vocals, Alannah Currie's percussion, and Joe Leeway's multi-instrumental talents combined to create an electrifying live experience.

Critical Acclaim and Awards:

The Thompson Twins garnered critical acclaim for their innovative sound and songwriting prowess. Their achievements include multiple BRIT Award nominations and an MTV Video Music Award for Best New Artist in 1984.

Evolution and Lineup Changes:

As the decade progressed, the Thompson Twins underwent lineup changes, with Tom Bailey being the sole consistent member. Despite these shifts, their music continued to evolve, embracing more electronic and dance-oriented sounds.

Legacy and Influence:

The Thompson Twins left an indelible mark on the 1980s music scene and beyond. Their infectious pop melodies, innovative soundscapes, and distinctive style influenced countless artists and continue to resonate with fans today.

Post-1980s Ventures:

Following the 1980s, the Thompson Twins explored various musical projects and collaborations. Tom Bailey released solo albums, while Alannah Currie and Joe Leeway pursued art and multimedia endeavors.

Conclusion:
The Thompson Twins’ colorful journey through the 1980s showcased their ability to craft infectious pop music, push boundaries, and captivate audiences. Their chart-topping hits, experimental sound, and unique aesthetics solidified their place in music history. Today, the Thompson Twins’ legacy lives on, reminding us of the enduring impact of their innovative sound and the colorful spirit they brought to the world of new wave pop.

In the vibrant rock music scene of the 1980s, one band stood out with their catchy hooks, powerful vocals, and energetic performances – Foreigner. With their fusion of hard rock and melodic pop, Foreigner dominated the charts and captivated audiences throughout the decade. Let’s take a closer look at the band’s success and influence during the period from 1980 to 1989.

Foreigner’s Rise to Fame
Foreigner burst onto the music scene in the late 1970s with their self-titled debut album, but it was in the 1980s that they solidified their status as one of the era’s most successful bands.

Chart-Topping Hits
During the 1980s, Foreigner unleashed a string of hit singles that showcased their powerful sound and memorable songwriting. Songs like “Hot Blooded,” “Urgent,” and “Juke Box Hero” propelled them to the top of the charts.

Successful Albums
Foreigner released several highly successful albums in the 1980s, including “4” (1981), “Agent Provocateur” (1984), and “Inside Information” (1987). These albums showcased the band’s ability to craft radio-friendly rock anthems that resonated with fans worldwide.

Collaborative Songwriting
The band’s success was driven by the collaborative songwriting efforts of its members. Lou Gramm, the band’s lead vocalist, and Mick Jones, the guitarist and primary songwriter, formed a formidable duo that crafted timeless rock compositions.

Memorable Ballads
In addition to their energetic rockers, Foreigner also delivered heartfelt ballads that became fan favorites. Songs like “Waiting for a Girl Like You” and “I Want to Know What Love Is” showcased the band’s versatility and struck an emotional chord with listeners.

Live Performances
Foreigner’s dynamic live performances during the 1980s solidified their reputation as a must-see act. Their electrifying stage presence and tight musicianship captivated audiences worldwide, making their concerts unforgettable experiences.

Enduring Popularity
Even after the 1980s, Foreigner’s music continued to resonate with audiences. Their songs have been featured in numerous films, television shows, and commercials, ensuring their enduring popularity and cultural impact.

Lineup Changes
Throughout the 1980s, Foreigner experienced several lineup changes, but the core duo of Lou Gramm and Mick Jones remained constant. These changes added new dimensions to their sound while preserving the band’s signature style.

Legacy
Foreigner’s music from the 1980s remains an integral part of rock music history. Their energetic rock anthems and heartfelt ballads defined an era and continue to be celebrated by fans and inspire new generations of musicians.

Foreigner’s presence in the 1980s music scene was nothing short of iconic. With their chart-topping hits, electrifying performances, and timeless songwriting, they left an indelible mark on rock music. Their music continues to captivate audiences, reminding us of the enduring power of their sound.

Foreigner’s contributions during the 1980s cemented their status as one of the era’s most successful and influential rock bands. You can hear Foreigner every day on BlackLight Radio.