In the annals of rock music, 1979 stands as a pivotal year, brimming with an array of songs that, while celebrated in their time, have since faded into the background. Yet, amidst this sea of classics, three tracks in particular merit a resurgence in the modern era. These songs, though often overlooked, possess an enduring quality that transcends the boundaries of their era, resonating with listeners even today. Let's delve into these three underrated gems and explore why they deserve a place in the spotlight once more.
The Buzzcocks - "Why Can't I Touch It?"
In the pantheon of punk rock, the Buzzcocks are often overshadowed by their contemporaries, who gained international acclaim. However, their song "Why Can't I Touch It?" stands as a testament to the band's enduring appeal. What's surprising is that this track, along with its A-side "Everybody's Happy Nowadays", only reached number 29 in the UK charts. The fact that it was released as a B-side and never made it onto an album only adds to its intrigue. Personally, I find it fascinating that a song with such a catchy hook and a message that resonates with so many was relegated to the sidelines. What makes this song particularly intriguing is the contrast between its upbeat melody and the introspective lyrics. It's a song that speaks to the universal human experience of longing and the struggle to find one's place in the world. If you take a step back and think about it, the Buzzcocks' ability to capture these emotions in a short, snappy package is a testament to their skill as songwriters. What this really suggests is that, despite their relative obscurity, the Buzzcocks were ahead of their time, and "Why Can't I Touch It?" is a song that continues to resonate with listeners even today.
Van Halen - "Dance the Night Away"
Van Halen's "Dance the Night Away" is a hard rock jam that, while a hit in 1979, often gets overshadowed by the band's other classics. What makes this song particularly fascinating is the influence of Fleetwood Mac's "Go Your Own Way" on its composition. While the two songs share a similar tempo, the lyrics and overall feel are distinct, allowing "Dance the Night Away" to stand on its own. This song is a prime example of Van Halen's ability to blend hard rock with pop sensibilities, creating a sound that was both innovative and accessible. In my opinion, the song's enduring appeal lies in its infectious energy and the way it captures the spirit of youth and rebellion. It's a song that invites listeners to let loose and embrace the night, and its relevance hasn't diminished over time. What many people don't realize is that, despite its popularity, "Dance the Night Away" is a song that has stood the test of time, and its influence can still be heard in modern rock music.
Supertramp - "Goodbye Stranger"
Supertramp's "Goodbye Stranger" is a progressive pop-rock song that, despite its Top 20 success in the US, has largely been forgotten in the UK. What makes this song particularly interesting is the use of the Wurlitzer electric piano and the Hammond organ, which create a unique sound that sets it apart from other rock songs of the era. The lyrics, written from the perspective of a drifter, offer a glimpse into the life of someone on the move, and the song's addictive hook makes it an instant classic. In my view, the song's enduring appeal lies in its ability to capture the essence of the human experience, and its relevance hasn't diminished over time. What many people don't realize is that, despite its relative obscurity in the UK, "Goodbye Stranger" is a song that has stood the test of time, and its influence can still be heard in modern rock music. If you take a step back and think about it, the song's timeless quality is a testament to the power of music to transcend the boundaries of time and place.
A Call to Re-evaluate
These three songs, though often overlooked, are prime examples of the enduring quality of rock music. They are songs that, despite their relative obscurity, have the power to transport listeners back to the era in which they were created, while also resonating with modern audiences. It's time to re-evaluate these songs and give them the recognition they deserve. In my opinion, the fact that these songs have stood the test of time is a testament to the power of music to transcend the boundaries of time and place, and their enduring appeal is a reminder of the importance of preserving and celebrating the rich history of rock music.
