Chart Toppers 

“CLOSE TO YOU” by MAXI PRIEST

“Close to You” is a melancholic pop song that was recorded by British reggae singer, Maxi Priest. It features a reggae and R&B arrangement, infusing the song with a laid-back, Caribbean vibe. Ron Wynn (from AllMusic) stated that the song is more of an R&B track (rather than an actual reggae song). Although I agree with this sentiment, there’s no denying the seductive and enduring appeal associated with this single. On this very day, October 10th 1990, it was the #1 song in America, topping Billboard’s Hot 100 chart. If…

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Heaven & Earth 

HAPPY BIRTHDAY JACKSON BROWNE

Jackson Browne is an American singer, songwriter, and musician who emerged (in the 1970s) as a prominent figure in the Southern California rock scene. Some of his most well-known songs include “Doctor My Eyes”, “The Pretender”, “Somebody’s Baby”, and today’s song choice (that can be listened to by clicking on the provided link). In the year 2004, he was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, and in 2007, he was also inducted into the Songwriter’s Hall of Fame. On this very day, October 9th 1948, Clyde Jackson…

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Chart Toppers 

“CLOSER” by THE CHAINSMOKERS

The song “Closer” is an electronic dance-pop track that was recorded by American DJ duo, The Chainsmokers. The lyrics within tell the story of a soured relationship (from the past) and the desire to re-acquaint with that person. In 2017 (at the Staples Centre in L.A.), it received a grammy nomination for “Best Pop Duo/Group Performance”, and in 2018, the song was diamond certified after selling 10 million units in the U.S. On this very day, October 9th 2016, it was the #1 song in America, topping Billboard’s Hot 100…

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Heaven & Earth 

HAPPY BIRTHDAY BRUNO MARS

Bruno Mars is an American singer, songwriter, and record producer who is known for his versatility in music, incorporating elements of Pop, R&B, Soul, Funk, and Reggae. Some of his most popular songs include “Just the Way You Are”, “Grenade,” “Locked Out of Heaven”, “Uptown Funk” (with Mark Ronson), and today’s song choice (that can be listened to by clicking on the provided link). Among his many accolades, he has received 13 Grammy Awards, 13 Soul Train Awards, 11 AMAs, 4 Brit Awards, and 3 Guiness World Records. Having sold…

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Chart Toppers 

“LOVE BITES” by DEF LEPPARD

“Love Bites” is an emotional power ballad that was recorded by English rock band, Def Leppard. The lyrics within explore themes of heartbreak (and the pain that comes from being in love). Lead singer Joe Elliott’s soaring vocals and a prominent use of acoustic guitars, helped make this track my favourite Def Leppard song of all-time. On this very day, October 8th 1988, it was the #1 song in America, topping Billboard’s Hot 100 chart. If you’d like to have a listen, please feel free to use the provided link.…

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Heaven & Earth 

HAPPY BIRTHDAY JOHN MELLENCAMP

John Mellencamp is an American singer and songwriter who gained fame (in the 1980s) with a series of hit singles, including “Jack and Diane”, “Pink Houses”, “Crumblin’ Down”, and today’s song choice (that can be listened to by clicking on the provided link). He has sold over 60 million albums worldwide, and has been nominated for 13 Grammy Awards. In 2008, he was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, and in 2018, he was also inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame. On this very day, October…

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Chart Toppers 

“JACK & DIANE” by JOHN MELLENCAMP

“Jack and Diane” is a classic rock song recorded by American singer-songwriter, John Mellencamp (formerly known as John Cougar). The lyrics within tell the story of a teenage couple (from a small American town) who experience young love (and the challenges of growing up). With its catchy sing-a-long hook and distinct guitar riffs, it went on to top the mainstream charts in Canada. On this very day, October 7th 1982, it was also the #1 song in America, topping Billboard’s Hot 100 chart. If you’d like to have a listen,…

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