In the early 80s, Queen's fame was already well established, but the band wanted to break into the US market, where they weren't as popular as in the UK. So, they decided to make a music video for their song "I Want to Break Free" to be shown on MTV.

The video, directed by David Mallet, was inspired by the British soap opera "Coronation Street" and featured the members of the band dressed in drag, with Freddie Mercury donning a wig and a pink dress. The video was meant to be a playful take on gender roles and stereotypes, but it caused controversy and backlash in the US, where many conservative groups criticized it for promoting homosexuality.

Despite the controversy, the video was a hit in the UK and Europe, and it helped to increase Queen's popularity in the US. The song itself, written by bassist John Deacon, is a catchy rock anthem that urges listeners to break free from the constraints of their lives and pursue their dreams.

"I Want to Break Free" became one of Queen's most popular songs and is still a fan favorite today. The song's message of liberation and self-expression resonated with audiences then and continues to do so today.

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Join us as we delve into the heart-rending story behind one of Elton John's most iconic compositions, "Song For A Guy." Released in 1978, this instrumental masterpiece holds a poignant narrative that resonates with audiences to this day. After a two-year hiatus, Elton John finds himself at a creative crossroads, facing the daunting task of crafting music without his long-time collaborator, Bernie Taupin.

In the late summer of '78, a pivotal moment unfolds. Emotionally drained and dissociated, Elton experiences a surreal detachment from his own being, sensing an impending farewell. This harrowing encounter with mortality weighs heavily on his soul, compelling him to find solace in the gentle keys of his piano. Thus, the haunting melody of "Song For A Guy" is born, a reflection of his inner turmoil and a testament to the fragility of life.

Tune in to explore the touching journey behind Elton John's "Song For A Guy," a timeless melody that continues to stir hearts across the world.

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Join us in this episode as we unravel the captivating story behind the iconic track "Don’t You (Forget about Me)" by Scottish pop-rock legends, Simple Minds, released in 1984.

The narrative kicks off with the renowned Oscar-winning composer Keith Forsey, famed for his work on the musical soundtrack of the hit film Flash Dance. Amid his prolific engagement with film music in the early 80s, Forsey's song catches the attention for the movie The Breakfast Club.

Against a backdrop of rejections from the likes of Bryan Ferry and Billy Idol, who were unable to commit due to time constraints, Forsey persistently pursues Jim Kerr, the lead singer of Simple Minds, a Scottish band on the brink of international success.

However, Kerr's stance remains unwavering as he strictly adheres to singing only his own compositions, citing time constraints due to Simple Minds' ongoing studio commitments for their upcoming album.

Despite initial reluctance, fate had other plans. The film's resounding success at the box office propelled "Don’t You (Forget about Me)" to sell over six million copies, propelling Simple Minds into the forefront of the music industry. This American anthem with its unfinished lyrics transcended time, becoming a beloved hit cherished by generations worldwide.

Tune in to discover the remarkable journey of this unforgettable song and the unexpected twists that shaped its legacy.

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