Now That's What I Call Stuart's Favourite Music 22 - Kermit The Frog (The Rainbow Connection)

Don't laugh...  My song today is a special one from when I was a wee lad.  It's Kermit the Frog, and The Rainbow Connection, from the 1979 film "The Muppet Movie". 

My Mum and Dad had the soundtrack/album to the movie, and I can remember quite vividly Dad playing this on the record player, and me and my sister listening to this on many occasions when my Mum was out playing Bingo.  

Unsurprisingly, it performed quite well in the US Billboard Charts and reached an impressive number 25 in November 1979.  It even received an Academy Award nomination for Best Original Song.

If you've never heard it before, give it a go.  Don't let 'Kermie' put you off.  It's a lovely song, and one that will forever remind me of a happy childhood.

Game Covers - Out Run (Commodore 64)

You're cool, the engine's hot, the girl's gorgeous, a tank full of gas and an open road...  the rest is up to you..!!

The ultimate experience in motorsports simulation, the absolute challenge to nerves and reflexes.  Feel the wind in your hair and the pull of the G-force as you power your way along the highways and byways, a girl by your side and open country before you.  Experience the exhilaration and excitement of driving a high-performance sports car in this teasing time trial where your coordination and nerve will be tested to unbelievable limits.  Out Run the coin op starred as an arcade sensation.  Out Run the computer simulation mirrors this exciting all action spectacle.

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Now That's What I Call Stuart's Favourite Music 21 - Doctor Doctor (Thompson Twins)

Today's song comes from a tune that was playing on my car stereo during the drive to work this morning.

There are a few songs/groups which I think are the epitome of the New Wave/New Romantic scene of the 1980's.  Groups such as Duran Duran, Spandau Ballet, Frankie Goes to Hollywood, ABC define the popular music (and the look) of this decade, and whether you like them or not, their impact on my generation was massive and will forever be remembered.

Doctor Doctor, by the Thompson Twins is another example of this.  The simple 4 note electronic intro sets the mood for a fantastic bit of 80s nostalgia.  Released in February 1983 and reaching number 4 in the UK charts (back in a time when listening to the UK charts was actually an enjoyable experience),  Have a listen to this...  and enjoy. 

Now That's What I Call Stuart's Favourite Music 20 - Sun Street (Katrina and the Waves)

I love this song, and in my opinion, it is so much better than their more popular hit, Walking on Sunshine. 

Released back in 1986, it reached number 22 in the UK charts between 8th June to 30th August.  A very underrated classic from the 80s. 

Enjoy...

Game Covers - Thing Bounces Back (Commodore 64)

Gremlin's springiest star is set to bounce straight back into a new adventure.  Following his world-saving exploits against the evil toy goblin and his monstrous toys, Things enjoyed his much-needed recuperation, oiled his spring, and is now raring to go.  What next?...  he must finish the job properly and halt the factory auto-producing these hideous toys.

But superfit as he is and fast as he can move there's danger around every bend...  goblins lurking to drain his oil, water rushing to bowl him over, iron chickens fielding dastardly deadly eggs.

A quick hand and dogged determination are needed if you're to get anywhere with Thing in his latest escapade.

Fast and furious action is the order of the day and a good sense of direction would be helpful to guide Thing round such a complex location.

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Now That's What I Call Stuart's Favourite Music 19 - Pictures in the Dark (Mike Oldfield)

A little heard Mike Oldfield rarity from way back in 1985 - Pictures in the Dark.

The song did not do too great in the UK charts where it only reached 50, but it did fair better in Europe, reaching number 5 in Switzerland, 4 in Germany and number 3 in Austria.  I guess the Europeans have good taste in music.  Whatever the UK thought of it, I love it, and that's why it has made my list.

The video features Mikes's then-girlfriend at the time, Anita Hegerland, and the choir boy is none other than Aled Jones.

Also to note - that's not Mike singing but in fact singer Barry Palmer.