ABC – When Smokey Sings (The Detroit Mix)
This to me was one of those great songs that was sadly over-exposed when it came out, but then magically vanished from broadcast radio. I seriously didn’t hear this song for what had to be 10 years, until I came across it by accident on some random 80′s compilation and had one of those “oh yeah!” moments and ever since then it’s been a jewel in my personal archives.
This was actually a “come-back” hit for the group ABC, who had had great success in the early days of the new wave movement, but quickly slipped out of favor as the decade unfolded. Medical issues put the lead singer on hold, and it wasn’t until ’87 when the band released what would be one of their biggest singles, a tribute to the sounds of Motown and the master of all things melodically brilliant, Smokey Robinson.
Surprisingly enough, this was one of the only times that an otherwise “tribute” song was riding on the top of the charts WHILE the person of dedication was too on the top of the charts himself! (Smokey Robinson had a hit of his own “One Heartbeat”.. an awesome song by the way.. that was on the charts the same time ABC’s hit was filling the airwaves). Pretty cool if you ask me, and Smokey is just so awesome I’m certain he found the experience quite humbling.
Here we have the awesome “Detroit Mix” which I got from a rare Japanese Single release. Detroit, home of Motown’s rise to stardom, is a fitting name to give this mix. Overall, a musically fun variation on this hit!
I actually kinda goofed and wanted to post this track on Tuesday as it was Smokey Robinson’s birthday and I figured a post like that would get a little mileage up on the social media circuit. But that’s ok, because I know the 80′s kids who enjoy a post like this will favorite it wherever they may regardless of the day. Or at least I hope so :)
{ 3 comments }
I agree that Smokey’s “One Heartbeat” is a terrific song. This mix of “When Smokey Sings” is fantastic. You know I like these upbeat tracks.
I actually prefer The Detroit Mix to the Miami Mix, because it sounds less dated to me. It’s on my Suburbs of Alphabet City EP. I remember buying this 7″ single at Sound Warehouse on Berry Street in Fort Worth because it was the $0.99 Single of the Week and I liked the lush color of the sleeve. I eventually bought Alphabet City and it’s one of my favorite ABC albums. Their latest album, Traffic, is quite good and reminds me of The Lexicon of Love.
@ Jef – Thanks for all your comments. I was actually a bit torn between going with this one or the Miami Mix, as I like that one too, but hands down this The Detroit Mix is the better version! Got to see ABC live several years back and they really did quite a performance with this classic! I’ve also enjoyed your stories of buying records and the memories you have attached with those experiences, that’s what it’s all about!
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