the THEMATIC 80s Song of the Week: Better Off Dead

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Theme: Better Off Dead

These are NOT songs from the soundtrack. Each theme lasts for 4 songs.
This is a new site and is being updated constantly, so always
check back for new information, additions, and date changes.
Also because the site is new, songs will be kept in
the full version for two months.

Song of the Week (4/12/99): Don't Come Around Here No More
Artist: Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers | Year Released: 1985
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So a friend of mine once said all Tom Petty songs consisted of the same four chords, but as long as he keeps coming out with songs I love, I don't care. This song is more unconventional-Petty though, and the Alice in Wonderland-esque video is great also. This song orginally appeared on Southern Accents, but is also on the great album titled none other than Greatest Hits.

Song of the Week (4/5/99): Boys Don't Cry
Artist: The Cure | Year Released: 1979/1988
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Obviously this is still a fan fave. Watched the Wedding Singer? Yes, Robbie Hart has also expressed fondness for this record. Personally, I think this song has one of the most memorable guitar riffs ever, but you already knew that. You can find this song on three Cure albums: Staring at the Sea: The Singles (which I totally recommend), Boys Don't Cry, and The Peel Sessions.

Song of the Week (3/22/99): You Keep Me Hangin' On
Artist: Kim Wilde | Year Released: 1986
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I can't stop listening to this album--yes, I totally think her voice is magnetic and since I haven't seen or met her, all I can say is that she's totally photogenic as well. There is a whole bunch of compilation CDs you can buy that feature this song, but I recommend the beginner to Kim Wilde: The Singles Collection. And check out other compilation CDS featuring this song, if you like.

Song of the Week (3/15/99): Walking in L.A.
Artist: Missing Persons | Year Released: 1982
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For the longest time I loved this song without knowing who the artist was. It's still oft-played on the radio, at least in L.A. alt-punk stations (Y107). I'm very happy with my Missing Persons album, The Best of but this song originally appeared on Spring Session M. You can also get this song on these other albums: Back 2 Back Hits, Before You Were Punk, New Wave Dance Hits: Just Can't Get Enough, Vol. 8, Shape Fitness Music - Cardio 2: Pure Rock.