80s Icon Had NO IDEA a Famous Boy Band RIPPED OF His #1 Hit Till I Told Him! | Professor of Rock

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  • čas přidán 7. 05. 2024
  • Up next, Tony Hadley, the former lead singer of Spandau Ballet, one the 80s leading new romantic bands, tells the story of one of the best songs of 1983: "True". It's a song that has become a bonafide standard… Tony admits that he has sung True at weddings, but when does he has to get really drunk… haha. He admits it’s a very difficult song to sing and he was scared about hitting the notes night after night. Well, it’s been decades and Tony can still nail it. And though he’s sung it over a thousand times, he never gets tired of it. But Tony does get embarrassed when fans tell him the things they do to this song. It’s a fabulous interview coming up and one where Tony is taken aback when I tell him that a famous boy ripped off the melody… Tony had no idea until this interview. The story is next on Professor of Rock.
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    It’s time for another edition of #1 on our Hearts where we change the past and give a song its due by making it a #1 hit. Is there a better love song than True by Spandau Ballet? It's an elegantly written song by Martin Kemp and masterfully sung by Tony Hadley. The song is a bonafide pop culture phenomenon. A modern-day standard having been covered by everyone from Paul Anka to members of the Black Eyed Peas including the heavenly sampled #1 hit Set Adrift on Memory Bliss by PM Dawn, Tony Hadley former lead singer of Spandau Ballet is going to tell us all about it. But first a little history.
    Spandau Ballet was formed in Islington Long in 1979, inspired by the post-punk underground dance scene. First called the APPLAUSE, before changing to Spandau and becoming one of the successful bands of the new romantic era of British pop helping with the second British invasion, conquering the American charts with A SONG THAT HAS BECOME A NEW STANDARD. TRUE. Their classic lineup of that time included Gary Kemp on guitar, Synth, and backing vocals, brother Martin Kemp on bass Tony Hadley as the vocalist, Saxophonist Steve Norman, and drummer John Keeble.
    True was composed by group leader Gary Kemp who composed the song at his parents' house while living there., ANOTHER NEW WAVE SONG THAT was inspired by Motown, as Marvin Gaye is mentioned in the lyrics To quote Kemp, he said “It was a bit like a Marvin Gaye, Al Green song, a blue-eyed soul song. It was at a time when it was me concentrating on melody first rather than the sort of riff and the groove. Kemp also said, "'True' became a song about writing a love song. 'Why do I find it hard to write the next line? I want the truth to be said?' Because I didn't want to write it down-because there's nothing more embarrassing.
    The song was partly about Kemp's platonic relationship (and unrequited love) with Altered Images singer Clare Grogan. I had the opportunity to sit down with former lead singer Tony Hadley who sang the original master and he told be the story
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Komentáře • 1,2K

  • @ProfessorofRock
    @ProfessorofRock  Před měsícem +52

    Poll: What song had the GREATEST Bass Line of the 1980s?

  • @heatherchurch
    @heatherchurch Před 21 dnem +73

    I wish my mother was still alive to see this interview. I vividly recall her reaction the first time she heard Tony Hadley sing. It was 1984, and I had the “True” 45 single. It was playing in my bedroom when I stepped out to get something in the next room, and my mother looked at me with a shocked expression. “Who is that singing? My God, his vocal control is incredible - that’s an astoundingly difficult song to sing!” It was instant love for her - she felt that there was no modern male singer at Hadley’s level of technical excellence. Every time I hear him sing, I think of her and hear what she heard. RIP to my mom. And thank you, Tony, for being the voice she loved.

    • @thejimmy6533
      @thejimmy6533 Před 17 dny +2

      Many of us have beautiful memories connected to this song, but yours is gold and something I envy quite a bit. RIP to your wonderful mother.

    • @heathsampson2768
      @heathsampson2768 Před 13 dny +1

      Phenomenal story and what memories are for: keeping our loved ones alive. Thanks for sharing Heather

    • @goolly1
      @goolly1 Před 13 dny +1

      R.I.P. to your mother. 🙏🏾

    • @UTU49
      @UTU49 Před 7 dny

      I love Tony Hadley and Spandau Ballet.
      True was one of the first albums I knew really well when I was a kid.
      Huge thumbs up for this video.

  • @emam5035
    @emam5035 Před měsícem +60

    I’m 55 so I was a teenager in the 80s. Spandau Ballet were my favourite band (had posters of them on my bedroom walls, of course). Fast forward 2007, I was working in a spanish hotel as a Front Office agent when Tony Hadley came to stay for a few days, with his wife and young baby. My younger co-workers didn’t know anything about Spandau Ballet but I was so happy to meet him! I asked my manager (who was British and my same age) if it was ok if I asked Tony Hadley for a picture and he replied that he (Tony) would have been happy to be recognised. And so I did: I asked him if I could take a photo with him, after I checked them out on their last day, and he was sooo nice. That was the first (and so far ONLY) time I had asked a famous person for a pic. Of course, while posing for the picture, I told him how I grew up with their music, had all their albums, the posters in my bedroom etc. 😊😊

    • @chrystal.clairtv7532
      @chrystal.clairtv7532 Před měsícem +8

      😊😃😄
      I would say you manifested that big moment for yourself..
      That's a delightful anecdote. Thanx for sharing

    • @Jettypilelegs
      @Jettypilelegs Před 13 dny +5

      I’m the same age as you. I love this story!

    • @Anonamiss782
      @Anonamiss782 Před 6 dny +2

      Yep, that's how old I am too. What a great time to be born, the music was awesome and Spandau Ballet and Billy Joel were, and still are my favourites.

  • @jennyjenny4501
    @jennyjenny4501 Před měsícem +315

    56 year old me is privileged to have come of age in the 80’s!
    Fantastic music!

    • @Whisper_292
      @Whisper_292 Před měsícem +17

      Same! I'm 58, and I wouldn't have grown up in a different decade.

    • @miwakenster3
      @miwakenster3 Před měsícem +21

      1968 was a good year to be born if I do say so myself, 56 in a few weeks

    • @RBS_
      @RBS_ Před měsícem +12

      ....well, at 61, I got ya BEAT....and, I never LEFT! ...ha-HAA!

    • @ProfessorofRock
      @ProfessorofRock  Před měsícem +9

      The best!

    • @ProfessorofRock
      @ProfessorofRock  Před měsícem +12

      @@Whisper_292 No kidding. I wanna go back!

  • @trinaq
    @trinaq Před měsícem +223

    I love that Gary Kemp suffered from writer's block during this song, and wrote "Why do I find it so hard to write the next line?" in frustration. This helped him to finish the song, and the band decided to keep it.

    • @ProfessorofRock
      @ProfessorofRock  Před měsícem +17

      Yes!

    • @andrewpease3688
      @andrewpease3688 Před měsícem +14

      @@ProfessorofRockit’s so easy when you’re a genius!Money for nothing is apparently just a straight recitation of an electrical goods salesman Mark Knopfler heard in a department store
      Older people seem to lose this ability.

    • @xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980
      @xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980 Před měsícem +6

      That was such a revelation for me. Now I know why that line is there.

    • @MrClassicmetal
      @MrClassicmetal Před měsícem +5

      Indeed! Gary Kemp is such a great songwriter.

    • @ImYourOverlord
      @ImYourOverlord Před měsícem +3

      James Hetfield had the same experience when he wrote "Just a rhyme without a reason" 🙂

  • @TrapperJohn72
    @TrapperJohn72 Před měsícem +38

    Can’t believe Tony is 63, aged like a fine wine. Great interview Adam.

    • @libbyhardel1826
      @libbyhardel1826 Před 29 dny +4

      I can't believe he's 63 and can still sing like he does!

  • @notmyrealname2592
    @notmyrealname2592 Před měsícem +64

    I totally agree with him. It’s horrible when artists refuse to sing their most beloved songs in concert or attempt to make a mockery of them. It’s pathetic and very disrespectful to those who love and support their work. I’m glad to see he’s so humble and willing to continue to show his older fans some love.😊

    • @neodutch
      @neodutch Před měsícem +3

      True. No one wants to hear the shit on the new album.

    • @Bum_Hip
      @Bum_Hip Před měsícem +1

      @@neodutchthat’s a little harsh I think. I mean if they sprinkle a new one in here in there , I think it’s ok. Just don’t mess with the hits that made their career. On that I believe we agree.

    • @libbyhardel1826
      @libbyhardel1826 Před 29 dny +1

      NOTHING drives me crazier than when musicians act like their older stuff is shit and won't play it. I mean what does that say about the fans they got from those songs of that time and album?

    • @Iggystar71
      @Iggystar71 Před 2 dny

      @@neodutchYou said it cold but you speak the truth. When I saw Depeche Mode recently every time they play a song from the new album it was a mood killer.
      Maybe one or two songs but a good seven?
      That’s why so many bands are selling out with Greatest Hits tours.

  • @celebro469
    @celebro469 Před měsícem +86

    School dance, this song starts, chill on my spine, cement in my shoes, butterflies in stomach, pushing it all away while asking that girl to slow dance. What a feeling when she said yes.

  • @ShoreSkeptic
    @ShoreSkeptic Před měsícem +29

    I was a metalhead in the 80s. I even mocked people who listened to Spandau Ballet and similar artists. Now I'm experiencing some of these gems for the 1st time. I was lucky enough to see them in concert in 2015.

  • @stevegallo8483
    @stevegallo8483 Před měsícem +111

    Calling Spandau Ballet's "True" a new standard is an accurate description of the song. It sounds as fresh today as it did in 1983.

  • @northernguy8860
    @northernguy8860 Před měsícem +90

    This song created a frozen moment in time for me. Summer of 83, I was driving down a steep hill near the tiny village of Clemetsport, Nova Scotia. It was a beautiful sunny day, with this song blaring on the radio. The bliss of it imprinted on me.

    • @stephanebolduc6501
      @stephanebolduc6501 Před měsícem +5

      Same for me across the bay in Saint John…a moment of time at the age of 15 like time stood still

    • @shortyc4247
      @shortyc4247 Před měsícem +4

      ❤. From Old Barns NS

    • @Dlweta57
      @Dlweta57 Před měsícem +3

      Wonderful how certain things really capture an emotion and an unforgettable feeling .of " in the moment "

    • @whatifschrodingersboxwasacofin
      @whatifschrodingersboxwasacofin Před měsícem +6

      September melancholy in undergrad residence.
      Golden sunshine through glowing coloured leaves on the way to lectures.
      40 years ago and it still tingles.

    • @jeffalbillar7625
      @jeffalbillar7625 Před 28 dny

      Great comment thread.
      I salute all of you. 🫡

  • @3Ottavia
    @3Ottavia Před měsícem +33

    While everyone else was crying for Duran Duran, I was all about Spandau Ballet. So happy to see Tony Hadley is still performing!

    • @libbyhardel1826
      @libbyhardel1826 Před 29 dny +10

      SOME of us loved them both and still do!

    • @amafirenze-vi1uh
      @amafirenze-vi1uh Před 20 dny +1

      Tony still got his beautiful voice. Simon Le Bon ...well, never had.

    • @sandraphillips878
      @sandraphillips878 Před 19 dny +4

      I was a fan of both bands

    • @franssantos9417
      @franssantos9417 Před 14 dny +2

      DuranDuran and Spandau were like brothers with a bit of sibling rivalry. But they were brothers still.

    • @suzybearheart530
      @suzybearheart530 Před 11 dny

      I was in 9th grade in the 90s, and watched 16 Candles for the first time when I was babysitting. That was the first time I heard "True" and I was in love with that song. I always requested it at school dances but of course the DJs NEVER played it because nobody knew that song anymore. 😢

  • @crashburn3292
    @crashburn3292 Před měsícem +168

    In the 80s my brothers and I were huge heavy/thrash metal fans, Metallica being one of our favorites. I remember one day my brothers teasing me to no end for blasting "True" in my bedroom. lol - Today I'm proud I did. It proves I had taste. What an amazing song.

    • @ProfessorofRock
      @ProfessorofRock  Před měsícem +21

      Such a cool memory!

    • @christiannacolbert5603
      @christiannacolbert5603 Před měsícem +15

      Such an accurate representation of the '80s... very diverse music that appealed to everyone. I remember when hip hop was hip hop, and the same kids who blasted Run DMC from their cars or boomboxes also blasted Simply Red, RATT, MJ, etc.

    • @donreinke5863
      @donreinke5863 Před měsícem +15

      Oh yeah....Metallica.......The band that sued their OWN FANS out of sheer greed.. I wont listen to one note of theirs. There is FAR better metal than that, and far more honorable bands.

    • @dawnpatrol700
      @dawnpatrol700 Před měsícem +10

      On the Powerslave tour, Bruce Dickinson used to say " if you're expecting us to play sh@# like Spandau Ballet, you're in the wrong place" lol

    • @fivestring65ify
      @fivestring65ify Před měsícem +2

      ​@dawnpatrol700 Thats hilarious.

  • @holddline
    @holddline Před měsícem +26

    Brings me back to prom night. 86 Can’t have a prom without playing “True” I’m blessed to have grown up in the 80s. & it’s music. A true Classic

  • @mikethesportshistorycollec1947
    @mikethesportshistorycollec1947 Před měsícem +54

    This is what I love...Not really a Spandau Ballet fan, but the interview with Tony Hadley was brilliant and might just make me go back and listen to see what I've been missing. Tony seems like a really good guy.

  • @aaronrogers1971
    @aaronrogers1971 Před měsícem +13

    I'm 53 and am having a hard time processing the fact that this song is 41 years old. I feel so old now.

  • @bishdizzle67
    @bishdizzle67 Před měsícem +52

    That song was on almost every radio station non stop for years. I still love it. Great interview.

    • @fivestring65ify
      @fivestring65ify Před měsícem +1

      The fall of 82. I have so many good memories linked to this song.

    • @HeavyJ713
      @HeavyJ713 Před 25 dny

      And eveey doctors office radio too

    • @HeavyJ713
      @HeavyJ713 Před 25 dny

      And Every Hospital waiting room and department store too

  • @joeterp5615
    @joeterp5615 Před měsícem +22

    Such a nice conversation. He was so grateful for the compliments. He’s aged really well and seems like a good dude.

    • @lisamh9037
      @lisamh9037 Před měsícem +2

      He really has! Guy's gotta be older than me. I want what he's drinking!

  • @peterd.9978
    @peterd.9978 Před měsícem +75

    What a crystal clear sounding song/voice. Never get tired of this one.

  • @Big_Tex
    @Big_Tex Před měsícem +66

    Not ashamed to admit it, I’ve always loved “True” and “Gold” even more.

    • @bobdavis4848
      @bobdavis4848 Před měsícem +2

      I think would make more sense to feel ashamed if one did not like Spandau Ballet. Why do so many of us care if immature hard rock fans laugh at us? (I like hard rock, too.) I love "Gold" even more, too. But I was sure that if either mentioned "Gold," it would be Tony. POR tends to get very fixated on just one featured song.

    • @phylliskumi4355
      @phylliskumi4355 Před měsícem +5

      Gold was my song. Still is. Tony Hadley has an incredible voice.

    • @bagley232
      @bagley232 Před měsícem

      Gold is my favorite of the two

    • @ec1628
      @ec1628 Před měsícem

      Gold is my favorite on that album.

    • @bobdavis4848
      @bobdavis4848 Před měsícem +2

      @@ec1628 "Good" was a good Better Than Ezra song. But "Gold" is a much better song. ;-)

  • @MichaelScotto
    @MichaelScotto Před měsícem +29

    The 60s gave us the most meaningful songs, 70s the most theatrical songs, but the 80s gave us the greatest pop tunes of any era.

    • @ProfessorofRock
      @ProfessorofRock  Před měsícem +4

      Great way of saying it!

    • @xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980
      @xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980 Před měsícem

      Yeah!

    • @shoppergirl8904
      @shoppergirl8904 Před měsícem

      "I know this much is true:" GREAT MEMORIES!❤

    • @TayWoode
      @TayWoode Před 9 dny

      I’ve always said the 80s were the last era of truly original music as synthesisers became popular and affordable so music was very diverse and experimental. Anything made since either uses old samples or can be faithfully recreated on 80s equipment

  • @catherinewilliams9680
    @catherinewilliams9680 Před měsícem +38

    Thank you for giving this band some love. Gary Kemp is a fantastic song writer and doesn't give his due. It's a crime that their record company didn't support them as much as they should've.

    • @ProfessorofRock
      @ProfessorofRock  Před měsícem +5

      I agree. He's quite amazing.

    • @xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980
      @xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980 Před měsícem +3

      They deserved more of a chance!

    • @MrClassicmetal
      @MrClassicmetal Před měsícem +2

      Indeed he is! When it comes to writing lyrics the man is right up there with the likes of Jonathan Cain, and Lou Gramm.

  • @marktubeie07
    @marktubeie07 Před měsícem +49

    Tony Hadley indeed has an amazing voice - and still has, so rich in tone.

  • @claregrose1714
    @claregrose1714 Před měsícem +15

    Hi from Manchester UK, Tony always has been one of the nicest guys in the music industry. Still down to earth and extremely polite. He must have been a joy for you to interview him xXx.

  • @laurat1129
    @laurat1129 Před měsícem +21

    "True" is so '80s, always reminds me of Sixteen Candles and my own unrequited teen years! Yet it's a classic soulful love ballad, always in style and simply timeless.💕

    • @nomasnofuss8393
      @nomasnofuss8393 Před měsícem +1

      yeah...the desperate unrequited teen heart ache....its in the vocals of this song...it always amazes me how these pop idols and big rock stars can distill such a feeling of heart ache and loneliness when they are probably getting more "action" and love than anyone on the planet....but it's tapping into your human emotions i suppose 🤔

  • @kevingamble8861
    @kevingamble8861 Před měsícem +13

    I was a child of the sixties and seventies but I appreciated the New Romantic bands such as ABC and Spandau Ballet. During the eighties I was venturing into adulthood and gravitated to music that reflected that time in my life. True was a song that represented a maturity to which I could relate. Tony seems to be a great guy. Excellent interview, Adam.

  • @lockedonlaw
    @lockedonlaw Před měsícem +81

    A song so good, even Steve Buscemi sang it!

  • @mudhens4ever
    @mudhens4ever Před měsícem +9

    Loved “True” back then, and I still do. Thanks, Professor!

  • @ponzo1967
    @ponzo1967 Před měsícem +17

    What a cool guy, it's nice to see this song being recognized as one of the best.

  • @chips1a
    @chips1a Před měsícem +12

    Everytime you hear this song it is like the first time you ever heard it, it stays more fresh then most songs.

  • @DveMcGuire
    @DveMcGuire Před měsícem +42

    I can't believe this ... the things we learn on a Wednesday morning!

  • @thebullet7874
    @thebullet7874 Před měsícem +11

    Such a great song. At my age, 64, when I hear this song I get emotionally nostalgic.

  • @johndutchman
    @johndutchman Před měsícem +5

    lovely interview . many thanks . . you could see him open up . when he felt you were serious: I have seen it a few times . now : your raw honesty will win over a jaded musician .. and you'll get the gem(s) . . this is why your channel is great.

  • @Dlweta57
    @Dlweta57 Před měsícem +5

    There are certain things from the 80's I'm sure a lot of us would like to forget, this song ' true' and the band 'Spandau Ballet' are definitely not on or any where near that list... Truly unforgettable... Thank you proffessor for the exposé

  • @waynevia6976
    @waynevia6976 Před měsícem +21

    One of my favorite songs of 1983. I still love hearing this great song.

  • @heathsampson2768
    @heathsampson2768 Před 13 dny +1

    @professorofrock the quality of your interviews, your production values and methodical research is unparalleled. Thank you for your videos!

  • @randymartin5521
    @randymartin5521 Před měsícem +17

    I've always been more if a hard rock/southern rock/psychedelic rock fan, ACDC, Led Zeppelin, Hendrix, Skynyrd, Grateful Dead, etc. but I will admit to singing along with True every time I hear it, it is a lovely, melodic song.

  • @TheShadowKarl
    @TheShadowKarl Před měsícem +15

    He seems like a kind and courteous person in his interview. As always thanks for the sit-down with an icon of the early 80's. True, is a fantastic song that still holds up. Congratulations again on 1 million subscribers, your channel deserves it. I have been subscribed for years and I love your content.

  • @nedbella
    @nedbella Před 23 dny +3

    What a wonderful interview. I'm 53 and this brings back such great memories. Thank you

  • @johnwhogan1610
    @johnwhogan1610 Před měsícem +7

    We lived in the same area and were very proud of the boys. My girlfriend had worked in a bank with the drummer before the band broke big.

  • @kenbrown5449
    @kenbrown5449 Před měsícem +3

    The memories and feelings that songs evoke are the magic of music.

  • @ohmightywez
    @ohmightywez Před 15 dny +3

    I can remember with crystal clarity the night I first heard this song. It was 1983, I was 13 years old, and I had just lost my dad A few months before. My big sister had invited me to come spend the weekend at her house with her family. I'd had an awful week and a boy I had a crush on made fun of me in front of our class. This song came on MTV and it was so mesmerizing. It took me out of the pretty real misery I was in and made me feel that I could grow out of that space and have a good future, which I did. A.few days later it came on the radio and I turned it up for my sister. It became a favorite of this song too.
    Mr..Hadley was so very handsome and he's aging pretty well.

  • @christopherayers4416
    @christopherayers4416 Před měsícem +5

    I absolutely adore singing along in my car!!! Tony's got an amazing voice.

  • @steveturner3999
    @steveturner3999 Před měsícem +2

    I absolutely loved this interview Professor! Tony seems like a very genuine guy. I love how he almost blushed at your compliments about his singing abilities. True stands alone amongst love songs and Spandau Ballet was the perfect group to bring it to its zenith. I always interrupted the lyric "why do I find it hard to write the next line?" as what the next step in the relationship should be. I love how it instantly transports me back to the early 80’s and the time of my life when I was still a relative newlywed with a 2 year old son. I always appreciated how crisp and clean the vocals were. Used to sing along with it to my late wife. Timeless perfection! Thanks for this one Professor.

  • @TheUffeess
    @TheUffeess Před měsícem +8

    This song crosses musical boundaries. That only happens with great music. Tony Hadley is then a true gentleman and a nice guy. Another super video, thanks! 👍❤

  • @MikeD_
    @MikeD_ Před měsícem +3

    Another great interview. I was surprised when he said he didn't know his song was being used in a commercial in the U.S., but then I remembered the rift and lawsuit between Tony Hadley and Gary Kemp, the band's songwriter who basically controls the songs and thus all the royalties. I never quite understood why any band and singers don't automatically get a cut of the royalties, even if it's 10%. This is a good example. Tony's singing and performance is very important to the success of the song. Bands are paid an enormous amount today to tour. Perhaps it's time for all sides to get back together for a tour where they can all profit.

  • @Rossturnerphoto
    @Rossturnerphoto Před měsícem +5

    I grew up hearing true on the radio long before I knew who Spandau Ballet was. It’s such an iconic song with a great classic feel to it, but it was regularly played on the station My parents listened to when I was growing up. It’s definitely one of the essential songs from both my childhood and adulthood as well. And I also love the P.M. Dawn. They really did do an excellent job with that sample.
    Excellent interview with Tony. I could sit and listen to him talk about music and tell stories for a long time.

  • @user-mx9gn1yo2j
    @user-mx9gn1yo2j Před měsícem +10

    Spandau Ballet was one of my favorite bands in the 1980s.

  • @nicholauscurphey3925
    @nicholauscurphey3925 Před 22 dny +2

    This is honestly one of the very first songs I can remember as I was only 4 at the time. I'm a rocker...but I will never skip this song.

  • @bilbobaggins7527
    @bilbobaggins7527 Před měsícem +4

    Another great interview...you are one of the best interviewers, if not the best.
    Your knowledge and understanding of the music is top notch, in addition to your ability to analyze the music.
    So many interviews wherein you can see in the interviewee's face, just how impressed they are by your knowledge and understanding of their music.
    Amazing!!!

  • @davee7877
    @davee7877 Před měsícem +4

    I LOVE Spandau Ballet. They're one of a handful of artists that represented the 80s and my youth. I loved their look. I loved their sound. I loved their style. My teenage self wanted to emulate them, be like them. They are true artists. They were my artistic heroes.

  • @kevinfroude8679
    @kevinfroude8679 Před měsícem +4

    Definitely my favourite band of the "New Romantics" era - and Tony Hadley's incredible voice is a large part of why they were so great.

  • @JoeTyria
    @JoeTyria Před měsícem +2

    I've always said, if ever there were a song that "sounds" like summer, it's this. Love it!

  • @Terk131
    @Terk131 Před měsícem +13

    This is one of those songs I couldn’t get into as a kid (I was 11 when it came out) but have learned to appreciate as I got older. Funny how that works. It’s things like these that keeps music alive.

    • @ProfessorofRock
      @ProfessorofRock  Před měsícem

      For sure!

    • @joefunsmith
      @joefunsmith Před měsícem +1

      For me, it's a whole genre -- the blues.

    • @theINQBS
      @theINQBS Před měsícem +3

      For my brother and I it was worse… We grew up in Harlem in the late 70's through the 80's and for us Hip-Hop/Rap was the best thing (granted we had TONS of QUALITY songs then) and we moved to Miami, FL and here the stations were so different, but there was this ONE girl who was constantly on the radio and TV and we couldn't staaaaaaand one bit and it would piss us off and we'd make fun of her stuff and noonish looks (to us at the time) all the time.
      Fast forward a couple of decades and she appeared on Howard Stern's radio show and I was like no way! There's just no elfin' way Debbie Gibson is this freakin' Hot and this intriguingly intelligent and sexy! From then on I listened to her stuff and I felt like an idiot not realizing what a talent that girl is!
      And when you compare to the utter TRASH (most of it) that's considered music, Debbie Gibson was PERFECT in every way for kids and everyone alike. She put out EXCELLENT wholesome music and could play instruments and sang superbly well. She was everything our kids today NEED!… A good, wholesome role model who's creating music for the love of it, not to appeal to a current culture to get rich and show off. I hear the CRAP my kids listen to and it's abominable in every regard. No real instruments, very little actual singing and when they do it's almost all auto tuned, and the subject matter is atrocious! 🤮

    • @xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980
      @xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980 Před měsícem +1

      Haha, we all have those songs.

    • @Terk131
      @Terk131 Před měsícem +1

      @@theINQBS I know what you mean. Also, we had great hip hop here in NY for sure. Today’s music is to me garbage but that’s me. My kids all listen to the older stuff, even stuff I was not into back then but they love it. Older music has soul and feeling, it means something, not so much of today’s music. Look at Motley Crüe new song, it’s trash and feels fake, digital and AI like. Kids need instruments and a studio, not a computer

  • @zmarko
    @zmarko Před měsícem +4

    What a super down to earth gentleman, Tony is. Great interview!

  • @thelefthandedshooter381
    @thelefthandedshooter381 Před měsícem +12

    This song is a Time Machine and takes me right back to high school….music can be so powerful

  • @duromusabc
    @duromusabc Před měsícem +23

    PM Dawn used the song for their huge 1991 R&B hip hop pop hit

    • @philbouchard9481
      @philbouchard9481 Před měsícem +11

      Set Adrift On Memory Bliss.

    • @kathymartin7724
      @kathymartin7724 Před měsícem +8

      Tony Hadley was in the video. For the Pm Dawn song.

    • @LivingInTheKaliYogurt
      @LivingInTheKaliYogurt Před měsícem +3

      ​@@kathymartin7724 that's cool! never knew that

    • @xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980
      @xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980 Před měsícem

      Of course they did!

    • @mikamamma
      @mikamamma Před 29 dny +1

      @@LivingInTheKaliYogurtdid you not watch this interview? They even showed a clip from Tony's scene in the video.

  • @juliao1255
    @juliao1255 Před měsícem +10

    Ooooooh yeaaaaaah, so smooth, beautiful, great memories of dancing close, slow groovin' to the radio while driving, and feeling the clench of my heart for the angst.... Such a great tune.

  • @lisamh9037
    @lisamh9037 Před měsícem +2

    Looooved this song /watching him on MTV. I was 20. This was nice to be reminded. Nice guy, cool to hear from him!

  • @Anonamiss782
    @Anonamiss782 Před 9 dny +1

    I was 15yo when this song came out and they soon became my favourite band. I had their singles, albums, double cassette album with extended versions. This song brings back so many memories of first love and first many things that make me smile, so thank you for sharing. I had the double cassette with extended version of the songs and a lot of Spandau Ballet songs are still on my playlists now. I was also pleased to learn on a recent road trip with my 30yo son, that some of their songs are on his list too, along with other 80's music 😎 Great to see Tony looking well 😊

  • @jeanwilson717
    @jeanwilson717 Před měsícem +3

    If you like Spandau Ballet, their doco "Soul boys of the Western World" is really good. They remain one of my all time favourites.
    Love your videos - greetings from Australia 🇦🇺

  • @bartbluemusic
    @bartbluemusic Před měsícem +12

    One of my personal favorite love songs ever released. This was one of those songs I used to hear on my clock radio (everyone had to have one of those back then - lol) late at night when I was supposed to be asleep. It is still one of my favorites - great interview!

    • @ProfessorofRock
      @ProfessorofRock  Před měsícem +1

      What's your top 5?

    • @bartbluemusic
      @bartbluemusic Před měsícem +1

      ​@@ProfessorofRocktop five love songs? I have to think that one over and get back to you on that

    • @klmjtr
      @klmjtr Před měsícem +2

      Clock radio was all we had to listen on! 😅

    • @xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980
      @xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980 Před měsícem +1

      It’s a great song for sleeping!

  • @jpanonuevo1411
    @jpanonuevo1411 Před 23 hodinami

    I am a HUGE Spandau Ballet fan since I was young. Thanks for this interview!

  • @Robert-bm2jr
    @Robert-bm2jr Před měsícem +2

    Beautiful song! Thanks for covering it.

  • @robertcringle4865
    @robertcringle4865 Před měsícem +10

    "True" definitely number one in my heart.

  • @yankeexpress
    @yankeexpress Před měsícem +10

    Lovely track, it is my second favorite Spandau Ballet tune … after “I’ll Fly for You”. Great interview!

    • @ProfessorofRock
      @ProfessorofRock  Před měsícem

      Great choice! What's your top 5 from that year...83!

    • @yankeexpress
      @yankeexpress Před měsícem +4

      @@ProfessorofRock - New Order- Blue Monday; Echo & the Bunnyman - The Cutter; English Beat - Cant get used to Losing You; The Clash - Should I Stay or Should I Go; Talking Heads - Burning Down the House

    • @jeanwilson717
      @jeanwilson717 Před měsícem +1

      Great song. Some of their smaller hits and album tracks, in my opinion, are better songs.

  • @bernardtalbert6729
    @bernardtalbert6729 Před měsícem +2

    Most Americans recognize the Kemp brothers from their 1990s acting careers more than their time spent with Spandau Ballet.
    They played the 1960s British twin gangsters in ”The Krays (1990)” which was redone later as ”Legend(2015)" starring Tom Hardy. Gary Kemp also appeared in the blockbuster ”The Bodyguard (1992)” starring Whitney Houston and Kevin Costner. While Martin Kemp appeared in episodes of early 90s TV shows like The Outer Limits, Tales from the Crypt. and The Highlander before moving back to the UK.

  • @deloresmull
    @deloresmull Před měsícem +2

    Wonderful interview!

  • @29stmarksrd
    @29stmarksrd Před měsícem +3

    I was really feeling down and then I see your next installment come up on my feed.
    Music was my distraction from the pain in my growing up years.
    This is a gift to my soul that I would classify as providential.
    You did the song justice as you do with all the songs you showcase.
    Thank you from the bottom of my heart.

  • @peterflynn2111
    @peterflynn2111 Před měsícem +16

    Spandau Ballet`s biggest hit which peaked at 4 in the Spring of 1983 in September one of their best tunes

    • @alexioverdo5225
      @alexioverdo5225 Před měsícem +4

      USA no4 but a solid UK no1 back in '83 and btw it was the song that kept another great '80s song off the no1 spot.That was 'Fascination" by The Human League.

    • @ThatCoalSoul
      @ThatCoalSoul Před měsícem

      How
      HOW?
      Is the apostrophe the wrong way round in your
      "Ballet's"?!

  • @phdimakopoulos543
    @phdimakopoulos543 Před 16 dny +1

    56 years old, I loved this song from the first listen and Spandau Ballet became my most favorite band back then. And it's still one of my most favorite bands throughout all these years, but my most favorite song of them (combined with the video clip) is "I 'll fly for you", the ultimate love song !!!

  • @ConstantSurprises
    @ConstantSurprises Před měsícem +1

    What a fantastic interview!

  • @debbralehrman5957
    @debbralehrman5957 Před měsícem +4

    Thanks Professor very enjoyable interview.
    👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻🌺

  • @kevinstaggs5048
    @kevinstaggs5048 Před měsícem +3

    Had to listen to the song to refresh my memory. I like it more now than I did in '83. I was 18 and a hard rocker back then.

  • @NMEntertains
    @NMEntertains Před 8 dny

    What an excellent interview! I felt that moment of informing people that Spandau Ballet was why "Set a Drift" existed. One of the best samples/covers of a song and I appreciated that they had Hadley in the video. That's respect.

  • @paulcarr5918
    @paulcarr5918 Před dnem

    As much as I like the songs, I really just enjoy your interviews with Tony Hadley. Always seems so nice and grateful for everything.

  • @johnathansaegal3156
    @johnathansaegal3156 Před měsícem +3

    Such a great interview. You two clicked quite well. Good job Adam.

  • @dianaf1669
    @dianaf1669 Před měsícem +12

    Congratulations on reaching a million subs!!!!! You're the best site on here for music!!!!!

    • @1msbucket
      @1msbucket Před měsícem

      After I'm done watching these videos, I'm not kidding, I feel so sad for what was left behind. But still, I'm glad somebody gets it! Adam, you're my therapist! THANKS!

  • @sariahut1
    @sariahut1 Před měsícem +1

    Absolutely a standard and a classic 80’s tune! This is a fantastic interview!

  • @libbyhardel1826
    @libbyhardel1826 Před 29 dny +1

    In 2009 this Chicago girl got to fly all the way to London to take a train to Birmingham to FINALLY see Spandau Ballet live. Front row. And when they played TRUE and I saw Steve Norman come forward with his sax to do that solo...it was an absolute out of fucking body experience for me. Then I was lucky enough to see them here in Chicago in 2015, a dream I never thought would come true, and hearing him do that solo live again? The second time my soul left my body! This was such an iconic band, I still listen to their music almost daily. Tony's voice, Gary's lyrics, Martin, Steve, and John...such an amazing band. I wish they'd kiss and make up and do another album but oh well....I love what I have. I think them for making the music that is still a huge part of my life to this day.

  • @freddyt55555
    @freddyt55555 Před měsícem +37

    Best way to describe Tony Hadley is:
    Looks and singing voice: champagne and caviar
    Speaking voice: beer and pretzels

  • @thetitleisours1
    @thetitleisours1 Před měsícem +6

    Love it having you guys talking about the love of vinyl. Puts a smile on my face

    • @ProfessorofRock
      @ProfessorofRock  Před měsícem +1

      Very cool!

    • @thetitleisours1
      @thetitleisours1 Před měsícem

      @@ProfessorofRock So great! This interview looks like old friends talking about music :)

  • @Terryman1960
    @Terryman1960 Před měsícem +1

    I was a young Air Force Airman stationed in Germany when this song came out and it blew me away! Mind you, I was totally sold out on rap at that time. It's Like That by Run-DMC, New York, New York by Grand Master Flash, Jam on Revenge The Wikki Wikki song, by Newcleus. But True was the song that had to be played so you could grab a girl and get close on the dance floor. Great memories!

  • @jondickson75
    @jondickson75 Před měsícem +1

    One of the best interviews. He seemed “Real”. Thank you!

  • @flavellinator
    @flavellinator Před měsícem +19

    "True" is a guilty pleasure for me... It was like an '80s version of the '70s "Precious and Few"... I remember DJ Richard Blade promoting it big time and I'm sure that had something to do with its success

    • @ProfessorofRock
      @ProfessorofRock  Před měsícem +2

      Did you grow up on KROQ?

    • @jeffhaught5374
      @jeffhaught5374 Před měsícem +2

      I love this comparison! “True” and “Precious and Few.” Great!

    • @shiroibasketshoes
      @shiroibasketshoes Před měsícem +1

      Richard Blade also played many Spandau Ballet videos while hosting "Video One" in 1985. You should never feel guilty about liking different great music!

    • @shiroibasketshoes
      @shiroibasketshoes Před měsícem +1

      @@jeffhaught5374 They are both great songs, but "Precious And Few" is more of a straightforward love song, while "True" is more esoteric in meaning. For example the "pill on my tongue" lyric and songwriting reference. A happy in love song wouldn't normally say "always slipping from my hands" or reference coming back from the world and "take your seaside arms..."

    • @stephenhanft1226
      @stephenhanft1226 Před měsícem +2

      Excellent comparison. Both are great love songs that defined the sound of their respective decades.

  • @KennethBartholomew-fb4cb
    @KennethBartholomew-fb4cb Před měsícem +3

    Best pop culture use of True in my book was when, in Modern Family, Claire attempts to finally give Phil a great anniversary gift and arranges for a private performance of “their song” True by Izzy LaFontaine, the fictional bass player of Spandau Ballet, played by Edward Norton. Turns out that their song was actually “If You Leave" by Orchestral Manoeuvres in the Dark and Claire got it wrong, but Phil decides to adopt True as “their” new song.

  • @SusanneB-of7wq
    @SusanneB-of7wq Před měsícem +2

    One of my favorite bands of the 80s, I love Tony Hadley's voice and Gary Kemp's compositions. Sometimes I feel sorry for them that many people only know "True" or "Gold" and talk about a one hit wonder. Gary's "Insolo" is a fantastic composition, and Tony is constantly touring with old and newer material, still singing the old hits in the original key.

  • @gavinmallett9331
    @gavinmallett9331 Před měsícem

    Great song, great album & a great interview Prof. Thanks & keep up the amazing work :D

  • @mikemurphy2764
    @mikemurphy2764 Před měsícem +4

    Another great interview.

  • @nileswilson577
    @nileswilson577 Před měsícem +4

    O.M. Stars, I just loved that song when it came out. Wish they would play it more on the radio.😢 Great interview. 😊

    • @trevorashman2258
      @trevorashman2258 Před měsícem +1

      An example of why streaming is so great. We can be reminded of a song and look it up and hear it and remember.

  • @DeepThought42
    @DeepThought42 Před měsícem +2

    Such a classic. I was a teenager when it came out, a big hit here I n Australia too. It just grabs you and makes you stop and sing along every time. Even though it got so much airplay you never got sick of hearing it. Love it as much today as back then.

  • @TheCarnivoreOdyssey
    @TheCarnivoreOdyssey Před 16 dny

    What a wonderful interview!!!

  • @TJ-id6ee
    @TJ-id6ee Před měsícem +4

    Yes another one of my favorites from the early 80's! Amazing and romantic. The video is bunrned into my mind after seeing it 100's of times on MTV. ❤‍🔥

  • @dad4ever-c90
    @dad4ever-c90 Před měsícem +7

    Like many people, I loved the song True, but knew little else about Spandau Ballet. In fact, in the first season of the sitcom Modern Family, Izzy LaFontaine, the (supposed) bass player of the band played his music as an anniversary present. I didn't learn until years later, that was a FICTITIOUS name and the actor was Edward Norton!

  • @kathymartin7724
    @kathymartin7724 Před měsícem +2

    Yes great interview with Tony Hadley. Very interesting. Thank you Professor of Rock.

  • @davidpotter734
    @davidpotter734 Před měsícem +2

    Adam Reader one of my favorite episodes, ever. As an 86 grad this genre was a huge part of my youth. Played at every stomp from 83 on.
    So cool they are coming out with new stuff.
    Keep up the high caliber work!

  • @BillGraper
    @BillGraper Před měsícem +6

    Absolute BANGER of a song!!! Now every time I hear it, I can see Lacey Chabert walking into the room in my mind, from the movie "Not Another Teen Movie." I'm pretty sure the song had a lot more fans after that!!!

  • @dranet47
    @dranet47 Před měsícem +4

    Pretty sure I had at least 5 Spandau Ballet posters on my wall as a teenager. lol Definitely one of my favorites!

  • @thepwrjunkie7378
    @thepwrjunkie7378 Před měsícem

    Great job on this interview Proff, this is the way to do it

  • @miss-asketches5284
    @miss-asketches5284 Před měsícem +1

    Great interview! 👏