Pop Gems - Classic and Forgotten Gems of the Pop World

Irene Cara - Breakdance

2009-06-11T13:06:00.001+01:00

From 1984, taken from the album "What A Feelin". Irene Cara had had a huge hit the previous year, but struggled to match the success of the "What A Feelin" single. "Breakdance" peaked at #8 in the US, and #88 in the UK charts. Produced by Giorgio Moroder, it's a great slice of 80's electro-pop.

TRACKLISTING:

Breakdance (Edit)

Breakdance (Extended Remix)

PASSWORD: http://popgems.blogspot.com

Chip Chip - Everything You Love

2009-06-10T22:18:00.000+01:00

I know very little about this 80's girl group but recently stumbled upon this track from them on an "Italo Hits" compilation. Taking info from www.discogs.com, I can tell you is that "Everything You Love" is from 1988. They appear to have released three singles prior to that, "Never Say Goodbye", "Rock Me Tonight", "So Close To Heaven". A further single followed in 1988, "No More Tears". In 1989, "Let Me Give You All My Love". In 1990, a single and an album both entitled "Close To Me". And then further singles, "Radio", "Motion", "Nobody Nobody", "Let The Music Play" and "Oh Guy", until 1993. Information overload I know!

Anyway, "Everything You Love" is a great little late-80's dance track. The live video is a joy to watch, as their dancing is really quite.....unique!

TRACKLISTING:

Everything You Love (Edit)

Everything You Love (Dolce Vita Edit)

PASSWORD: http://popgems.blogspot.com

Crystal Waters - Makin' Happy

2009-06-10T21:28:00.001+01:00

From 1991, this was the follow-up to her massive hit "Gypsy Woman" and the second single released from Crystal Water's debut album "Surprise". The track performed moderately well around the world, peaking at #22 in Switzerland & Ireland, #18 in the UK, #17 in France, and #1 in the U.S. Billboard Hot Dance Club Play chart.

TRACKLISTING:

Makin' Happy (Hurley's Happy House Mix 7")

Makin' Happy (Hurley's Happy House 12")

Makin' Happy (Basement Boys Happy Club Mix)

PASSWORD: http://popgems.blogspot.com

Kim Wilde - Never Trust A Stranger

2009-06-10T20:17:00.000+01:00

From 1988, this was the third single released from Kim Wilde's "Close" album. The song peaked at #20 in France, #12 in Sweden, #11 in Germany, #7 in the UK, #5 in Ireland, #4 in Switzerland & Netherlands, and #2 in Austria.

Two further singles were released from "Close". These were "Four Letter Word" & "Love In The Natural Way".

TRACKLISTING:

Never Trust A Stranger (Album Version)

Never Trust A Stranger (Extended Version)

Never Trust A Stranger (Razormaid Mix)

PASSWORD: http://popgems.blogspot.com

Celine Dion - Misled

2009-06-09T21:20:00.001+01:00

'Misled' is the third single from Céline Dion's album The Colour of My Love. It was released on April 4, 1994. The song was remixed by: Mark Kinchen (MK), Richie Jones, Shedrick Guy (The Groove) and Eric Miller (E-smoove). It's one of only few Céline Dion's songs remixed so many times.

'Misled' topped the Hot Dance Club Play chart in the United States for two weeks. It's Dion's only #1 on that chart so far. The single reached top ten in Canada (#7), and top forty in the United Kingdom (#15), United States (#23 on the Billboard Hot 100, #22 on the Billboard Hot 100 Airplay and #52 on the Hot 100 Singles Sales), and New Zealand (#31). According to Nielsen SoundScan the single sold 112,000 copies in the U.S. It's the third Céline Dion's single that was re-released in the United Kingdom (after 'Where Does My Heart Beat Now' and 'If You Asked Me To'). 'Misled' reached #40 in April 1994 and #15 in November 1995.

TRACKLISTING:

TRACKLISTING:

Misled (Album Version)

Misled (E-Smoove's Mission 7")

Misled (E-Smoove's Mission 12")

Misled (E-Smoove's Mission Dub)

Misled (MK Club Radio Mix)

Misled (MK Club Mix)

PASSWORD: http://popgems.blogspot.com

Cathy Dennis - You Lied To Me

2009-06-08T22:19:00.000+01:00

From 1992, this was the first single to be taken from Cathy Dennis's third album 'Into The Skyline'. Surprisingly, the track peaked at #34 in the UK charts and #32 in the US charts. Two further singles were released from the album, 'Irresistable' & 'Falling'. The track 'Why' was featured on the album and was also released as a single in 1994, but under the name 'D-Mob with Cathy Dennis'.

TRACKLISTING:

You Lied To Me (Radio Edit)

You Lied To Me (Sprayed With Shep's Attitude Mix)

You Lied To Me (Pathological Mix)

You Lied To Me (Domination Mix)

You Lied To Me (Dan's Club Mix)

You Lied To Me (Dan's Dub Mix)

PASSWORD: http://popgems.blogspot.com

Jody Watley - When A Man Loves A Woman

2009-06-08T20:50:00.004+01:00

From 1994, this was the final single from Jody Watley's fourth album, "Intimacy". The track was released in the UK with alternate gay-themed mixes by progressive house/ trance outfit, BBG. The BBG mixes substituted the gender roles in their titles, hence they were "When a Man Loves a Man" and "When a Woman Loves a Woman". Watley's willingness to discuss gay issues was unprecedented at the time and still remains a rarity among black artists to this day.

The song peaked at #33 in the UK charts, #115 on the U.S. pop chart, and #11 on the R&B chart. It was backed with the David Morales produced track "Ecstasy".

TRACKLISTING:

When A Man Loves A Woman (Radio Mix)

When A Man Loves A Man (BBG Deep Mix Edit)

When A Woman Loves A Woman (BBG Deep Mix Edit)

Ecstasy (B.Y.C. 12")

PASSWORD: http://popgems.blogspot.com

Bardeux - Bleeding Heart

2009-06-07T15:34:00.002+01:00

From 1988, 'Bleeding Heart' was the 4th single lifted from Bardeux's debut album 'Bold As Love'. The track reached #36 in the Billboard Hot Dance chart. They're often considered to be a one-hit wonder, but had many dance hits throughout their short career - including 'Magic Carpet Ride', 'Three Time Lover', 'Hold Me Hold Me' and of course 'Bleeding Heart'.

TRACKLISTING:

Bleeding Heart (Radio Mix)

Bleeding Heart (7" House Mix)

Bleeding Heart (12" House Mix)

Bleeding Heart (Intropella House Mix)

Bleeding Heart (Percapella)

Bleeding Heart (Instrumental)

PASSWORD: http://popgems.blogspot.com

Erasure - Abba-esque

2009-06-06T21:30:00.005+01:00

From 1992, this EP from Erasure consisted of cover versions of four Abba songs. Originally it had been planned to release a full album of ABBA covers. The release gave the duo their first UK number one. Many credit this EP release as a major catalyst for a revival of ABBA's music in the 1990s. The greatest hits album "ABBA Gold" would be released by the end of the summer, and the coming years saw a heavy emphasis on ABBA music in the Australian motion pictures Muriel's Wedding and The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert. By the decade's end, the musical Mamma Mia! had opened in the West End.

TRACKLISTING:

Lay All Your Love On Me
S.O.S.
Take A Chance On Me
Voulez Vous

PASSWORD: http://popgems.blogspot.com

East 17 - Let It Rain

2009-06-05T21:38:00.001+01:00

From 1995, this was the 4th single released from East 17's "Steam" album. It was the follow-up to the bands #1 smash "Stay Another Day". "Let It Rain" had moderate success around the world, peaking at #33 in Sweden, #26 in Germany, #21 in France, #18 in Norway and #10 in the UK. The track was co-written & produced by Ian Curnow, Phil Harding & Rob Kean. Remixes were provided by J-Pac & Overworld.

TRACKLISTING:

Let It Rain (Thunder Radio Edit)
Let It Rain (Overworld's Storm Edit)
Let It Rain (J-Pac Sleeting Mix)
Let It Rain (Overworld Storm Mix)
Let It Rain (P & C Black Clouds Vocal Remix)
Let It Rain (Part One Low Pressure Remix)
Let It Rain (P & C Black Clouds Hard Mix)

PASSWORD: http://popgems.blogspot.com

Kariya - Baby Let Me Love You For Tonight

2009-06-05T21:00:00.001+01:00

Originally released in 1988, 'Baby Let Me Love You For Tonight' has long been regarded a club classic. Ten years later, in 1998, the track was given a rework in the form of remixes by Junior Vasquez and the Sol Brothers. The Sol Brothers fantastic remix still stands the test of time today. The original track reached #44 in the UK charts in 1989, but the 1998 remix failed to chart.

TRACKLISTING:

Baby Let Me Love You For Tonight (Sol Brothers Radio Edit)
Baby Let Me Love You For Tonight (Sol Brothers 12" Mix)
Baby Let Me Love You For Tonight (Juniors Club Mix)
Baby Let Me Love You For Tonight (Original Mix)

PASSWORD: http://popgems.blogspot.com

Herb Alpert - Diamonds

2009-06-03T15:45:00.004+01:00

From 1987, "Diamonds" was the second single by Herb Alpert from his "Keep Your Eye On Me" album, and featured vocals from Janet Jackson and Lisa Keith. The single marked a huge comeback for Herb Alpert.

It was produced by Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis, who melded Alpert's sound with their own Minneapolis funk. In the music video Herb Alpert appears in "Bucky's" night club where the DJ eventually plays his new single. The song is a hit with the crowd and Herb and his band end up performing onstage. Meanwhile, Janet heads back to the club in a limo. Janet herself does not appear in the video - a look-alike is used for the limo scenes, and the shadow of Janet in the club is actually that of a child.

The track was a moderate hit around the world, peaking at #27 in the UK, #8 in South Africa, #5 in the US Billboard Hot 100, #4 in Holland, #4 in Canada, and #1 in the US Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Singles, Hot Dance Music/Club Play & Hot Dance Music/Maxi-Singles charts.

TRACKLISTING:

Diamonds (Edit)
Diamonds (Album Version)
Diamonds (Dance Mix)
Diamonds (Cool Summer Edit)
Diamonds (Cool Summer Mix)
Diamonds (Cool Summer Dub)
Diamonds (Beats Dubcapella)
Diamonds (Instrumental)
Diamonds (Girl's Best Friend Mix)

PASSWORD: http://popgems.blogspot.com

Cheryl Baker - If Paradise Is Half As Nice

2009-06-02T21:14:00.001+01:00

Released in August 1987, this was Buck Fizz singer Cheryl Bakers debut solo single. It was a cover version of the 1969 hit by Amen Corner. Sadly this track wasn't a hit and only managed to reach #94 in the UK charts. Inspite of the poor chart performance it's still a well-performed cover and the 80's production shines through.

TRACKLISTING:

If Paradise Is Half As Nice
If Paradise Is Half As Nice (Extended Version)

PASSWORD: http://popgems.blogspot.com

Adventures In Babysitting Soundtrack

2009-05-31T20:29:00.002+01:00

From 1987, this is the soundtrack to the comedy movie "Adventures In Babysitting". Written by David Simkins, directed by Chris Columbus, and starring Elisabeth Shue, Bradley Whitford, Maia Brewton, Anthony Rapp, Penelope Ann Miller, Keith Coogan, and a brief cameo by blues singer/guitarist Albert Collins. Although it is set in Oak Park and Chicago, Illinois, with much of the action taking place in the city itself, the movie was filmed primarily in Toronto.

The film centers around Chris Parker , a high school senior, who agrees to babysit Sara Anderson after her boyfriend Mike Toddwell cancels their anniversary date. Sara's older brother Brad , who has a crush on Chris, decides to stay home and hang around. When Chris' friend Brenda calls from a Chicago bus station, having made a failed attempt to run away from her family, Chris reluctantly takes Sara, Brad, and Brad's sex-obsessed best friend Daryl Coopersmith from their safe suburban surroundings into the city to rescue her. A flat tire on the highway with no spare and Chris' realization that she has failed to bring her purse launches the group into a series of unlikely predicaments, including detainment by a car theft ring (from which Daryl steals a Playboy magazine filled with incriminating notes), pursuit by the criminals, a blues club where they're forced (by Albert Collins) to sing of their ordeal before leaving, a gang fight on a train which leaves Brad slightly injured (as well as a moment at a hospital where the others are briefly led to believe Brad is dead), and a final incident with their pursuers on the Smurfit-Stone Building in Chicago.

TRACKLISTING:

The Crystals - Then He Kissed Me
Percy Sledge - Just Can't Stop
The Rolling Stones - Gimme Shelter
Southside Johnny & the Ashbury Jukes - Expressway To Your Heart
Koko Taylor - Evil (Is Going On)
Albert Collins feat Elisabeth Shue - Babysitting Blues
Edwin Starr - 25 Miles
Muddy Waters - The Blues Had A Baby And They Named It Rock And Roll
Iggy Pop - Real Wild Child (Wild One)
Junior Walker & The All Stars - What Does It Take (To Win Your Love)
Sam Cooke - Bring It On Home To Me
Southside Johnny - Future in Your Eyes

PASSWORD: http://popgems.blogspot.com

Take That - Could It Be Magic

2009-05-22T14:56:00.007+01:00

From 1992, this was a cover version of the 1975 Barry Manilow hit. The song was the final single released from the "Take That & Party" album. At the time, it gave the group their biggest hit to date, peaking at #3 in both the Irish & UK singles chart. It also hit #42 in France, #37 in Germany, #30 in Sweden, and #30 in Australia. The track was remixed by the Rapino Brothers.

TRACKLISTING:

Could It Be Magic (Rapino Radio Mix)
Could It Be Magic (Deep In Rapino's Club Mix)
Could It Be Magic (Acappella)
Could It Be Magic (Ciao Baby Mix)
Could It Be Magic (Rapino Dub)
Could It Be Magic (Paprazzo Mix)
Could It Be Magic (Deep In Rapino's Dub)
Could It Be Magic (Club Rapino Mix)

PASSWORD: http://popgems.blogspot.com

Tina Turner - Whatever You Want

2009-05-22T09:39:00.004+01:00

From 1996, this was the 2nd single to be released from Tina Turner's "Wildest Dreams" album (the first being the Bond theme "Goldeneye"). Written by US singer/songwriter Taylor Dayne, the songs performance on the charts varied around the world. It peaked at #100 in Australia, #58 in Germany, #36 in Sweden, #27 in Austria, #23 in the UK, #18 in Switzerland, #16 in New Zealand, #9 in Finland, #5 in Italy, #4 in Poland, and #2 in Spain.

The song was given dance remixes from Todd Terry, and also Arthur Baker. The music video was directed by Stéphane Sednaoui and it features Tina Turner with futuristic special effects surrounding her. The special effects become more vigorous as the song progresses.

TRACKLISTING:

Whatever You Want (Album Version)
Whatever You Want (Alternative Mix)
Whatever You Want (Extended Version)
Whatever You Want (Todd Terry Edit)
Whatever You Want (Todd Terry Mix)
Whatever You Want (Massive Jungle Mix)

PASSWORD: http://popgems.blogspot.com

Cheese-tastic!

2009-05-21T21:34:00.004+01:00

Just for fun. A compilation of some of the best (worst?) cheesy songs. Songs so bad...that they're great! Featuring such classics as Agadoo, The Birdy Song, Star Trekkin', and many more!! :D

TRACKLISTING:

Aneka - Japanese Boy
Tight Fit - The Lion Sleeps Tonight
Brotherhood Of Man - Save Your Kisses For Me
Joe Dolce - Shaddap You Face
Captain Sensible - Happy Talk
Black Lace - Agadoo
Bucks Fizz - Making Your Mind Up
Keith Harris & Orville - I Wish I Could Fly
Renee & Renato - Save Your Love
The Wurzels - Combine Harvester (Brand New Key)
Ottawan - Hand Up (Give Me Your Heart)
Russ Abbot - Atmosphere
Black Lace - I Am The Music Man
Ottawan - D.I.S.C.O.
The Nolans - I'm In The Mood For Dancing
Spitting Image - The Chicken Song
The Tweets - The Birdy Song
Patrick McNee & Honor Blackman - Kinky Boots
Black Lace - Superman
The Firm - Star Trekkin'
Mr Blobby - Mr Blobby
Bombalurina - Itsy Bitsy Teenie Weenie Yellow Polka Dot Bikini
Black Lace - Do The Conga
Lonnie Donegan - My Old Man's A Dustman
Jive Bunny & The Mastermixers - Swing The Mood
Charles Penrose - The Laughing Policeman
Peter Sellers & Sophie Loren - Goodness Gracious Me
Bernard Cribbins - Right Said Fred
Damian - Wig Wam Bam

PASSWORD: cheese

Paula Abdul - Vibeology

2009-05-21T19:21:00.003+01:00

From 1992, this was the fourth single from Paula Abdul's "Spellbound" album. A catchy little number, with some fantastic remixes, the song unfortunately didn't perform as well as had been hoped. It peaked at #46 in Germany, #19 in the UK, and #16 in the US. It did perform well in Cananda, where it peaked at #3.

TRACKLISTING:

Vibeology (7" Edit)
Vibeology (Hurley's House Mix)
Vibeology (Silky Sax Dub)
Vibeology (Hurley's Underground Mix)
Vibeology (Hurley's Underground Sax Dub)

PASSWORD: http://popgems.blogspot.com

Jennifer Paige - Crush

2009-05-21T17:08:00.004+01:00

From 1998, this was the debut single from American singer-songwriter Jennifer Paige. It was taken from self-titled debut album "Jennifer Paige". The song reached #3 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and remains Paige's biggest hit to date, topping the charts in six countries in 1998. It reached #15 in Germany, #4 in France, #4 in the UK, and #1 in Australia, Canada, Latvia, Russia, New Zealand & Spain.

TRACKLISTING:

Crush (Single Version)
Crush (Dance Mix)
Crush (Instrumental)
Crush (Tiefschwarz Radio Edit)
Crush (Tiefschwarz Hollywood Extended)
Crush (David Morales Radio Alt Intro)
Crush (David Morales Alt Club Body)
Crush (David Morales La Crush Dub)

PASSWORD: http://popgems.blogspot.com

Jody Watley - Don't You Want Me

2009-05-21T00:56:00.001+01:00

From 1987, taken from her debut album "Don't You Want Me" was remixed for its single release. The 7" single featured remix + additional production by Francois Krevorkian & Michael Hutchinson on both the A side and B side Radio Remix. The 12" single featured an Extended Remix, Dub and Acapella.

"Don't You Want Me" landed in the Top 40 of the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 singles chart the week of October 24, 1987, advancing from #56 to #40. The song would go on to peak at #6 on the Hot 100 and would (beginning December 19, 1987), remain there for three consecutive weeks. The track fared less well in the UK, peaking at #55 in October 1987.

TRACKLISTING:

Don't You Want Me (Single Version)
Don't You Want Me (Radio Remix)
Don't You Want Me (Extended Remix)
Don't You Want Me (Dub Version)
Don't You Want Me (Acapella)
Don't You Want Me (Ultimix)

PASSWORD: http://popgems.blogspot.com

Toyah - Echo Beach

2009-05-20T00:05:00.002+01:00

From 1987, this cover of the 1980 Martha & The Muffins hit was the lead single from Toyah's "Desire" album. Unfortunately it wasn't a big hit and stalled at #54 in the UK charts. Follow-up single "Moonlight Dancing" fared even worse, not even entering the charts.

TRACKLISTING:

Echo Beach
Echo Beach (Surf Mix)

PASSWORD: http://popgems.blogspot.com

Sinitta - The Supreme EP

2009-05-19T18:27:00.005+01:00

From 1993, this EP was a collection of cover versions of 60's Motown girl-group The Supremes. Sinitta had struggled to have hits during the early 90's. The final single from the "Wicked" album, "Hitchin' A Ride" peaked at #24 in the UK charts, "Love & Affection" had peaked at #62, "Shame Shame Shame" had peaked at #28, and "Aquarius" had failed to chart. Sadly, "The Supreme EP" fared no better, peaking at #49 in the UK charts.

Two of the tracks, "Where Did Our Love Go?" & "You Can't Hurry Love" were later included on Sinitta's 1995 album "Naughty Naughty".

TRACKLISTING:

Where Did Our Love Go?
You Can't Hurry Love
Stop In The Name Of Love
Remember Me

PASSWORD: http://popgems.blogspot.com

Toto Coelo - I Eat Cannibals

2009-05-19T18:24:00.002+01:00

Toto Coelo (renamed Total Coelo in the U.S.) was a 1980s British one hit wonder new wave vocal group, masterminded by producer Barry Blue. The original members were the singers Anita Mahadervan, Lacey Bond, Lindsey Danvers, Ros Holness (daughter of TV host Bob Holness) and Sheen Doran.

In 1982 the group had their biggest hit, "I Eat Cannibals". The song reached #66 in the US, #38 in New Zealand, #8 in the UK, and #4 in Australia. An album "Man O'War" was released, along with further singles "Dracula's Tango/Mucho Macho" (1982), "Milk From The Coconut" (1983), "Girl's Night Out" (1985), and "Gimme Some Lovin'" (1985).

Hot pot, cook it up, i'm never gonna stop!

TRACKLISTING:

I Eat Cannibals
I Eat Cannibals (Part II)
I Eat Cannibals (Extended Mix)
I Eat Cannibals (Dub Mix)

PASSWORD: http://popgems.blogspot.com

Oleta Adams REQUEST

2009-05-06T18:28:00.004+01:00

A request from me. I'm looking for the following Oleta Adams b-sides/non-album tracks. If you can help, please contact me. Thanks!!

Let Me Be The One
God Bless The Child
Colors Of The Heart (Solo Version)
Starting All Over Again (with Shirley Caesar)
Moon River (with The Crown Project)
A Child Was Born Into My Life
Goodbye Yesterday
The Last Lie

I'm also looking for her 1983 album entitled "Going On Record". If you can help, please contact me. Thanks!!

Kim Appleby - If You Cared

2009-04-23T12:41:00.005+01:00

From 1991, this was the final single to be released from Kim Appleby's debut album. After scoring a #2 hit in 1990 with her debut single "Don't Worry", and the #10 hit "G.L.A.D." in early 1991, Appleby had struggled with her single releases. "Mama" peaked at #19, and "If You Cared" failed to hit the top 40, peaking at #44 in the UK charts.

In 1988, Mel & Kim appeared on the UK chat show "Wogan" to launch "UK Cancer Week". They were interviewed about their career and Mel's cancer treatment. They talked about future plans, and performed a brief acapella of what would become "If You Cared". If you'd like to see the interview, watch it on youtube HERE. :)

TRACKLISTING:

If You Cared (7" Remix)
If You Cared (12" Ben Chapman Mix)
If You Cared (12" Remix)

PASSWORD: http://popgems.blogspot.com

Jemini - Cry Baby

2009-04-23T12:26:00.003+01:00

Jemini were an English pop group from Liverpool, best known for scoring "nul points" and finishing in last place with their song "Cry Baby" at the 2003 Eurovision Song Contest in Latvia. To date, it is the only time in the contest's history that a UK entry has suffered that particular indignity.

Despite the failure of the song at the Eurovision song contest, it did mangage to hit the UK charts, peaking at #15. A second single "Try To Love" was planned, as was an album "Love Is Blind", but both were cancelled.

Personally, I think "Cry Baby" is a great little pop song, no better or worse than pop songs of the time. It certainly deserved better.

TRACKLISTING:

Cry Baby
Cry Baby (Andy Rossa Force Four Remix)

PASSWORD: http://popgems.blogspot.com

Gina G - Every Time I Fall

2009-04-21T18:27:00.006+01:00

From 1997, this was the final single to be released from Gina G's debut album "Fresh". Her pop career started off exceptionally well, with the #1 hit "Ooh Aah...Just A Little Bit", but with each subsequent single her chart positions seemed to get lower and lower. Sadly "Every Time I Fall" was her lowest charting single from the "Fresh" album, peaking at #142 in Israel, #79 in Australia, #60 in Japan,and #52 in the UK.

Despite its low chart performance I still think it's a little pop gem. It's a great pop ballad, and was given some good dance mixes from the likes of Todd Terry & Metro. The best of these mixes, in my opinion, is the Metro Eurobeat Mix.

It has a great video too, which is reminiscent of Kylie's "Put Yourself In My Place" video from 1994.

TRACKLISTING:

Every Time I Fall (Radio Version)
Every Time I Fall (Todd Terry Radio Mix)
Every Time I Fall (Todd Terry Pop Mix II)
Every Time I Fall (Metro's Eurobeat Mix)
Every Time I Fall (Gina's Dub Todd Terry Mix)

PASSWORD: http://popgems.blogspot.com

Barbara Windsor - Grin And Bare It

2009-04-21T18:01:00.005+01:00

"So i got out me lotion and went to the ocean, I was tanning meself on the front. Me little bikini was really quite teeny, but it seemed to be bearing the brunt. But I slipped on a cornette, and thought 'Ooh that's torn it!' I could feel I was losing me top. I looked a right clown, me defences were down, and me show began to flop!"

From 1972, "Grin And Bare It" is one of those saucy 70's novelty records that seemed to flood that era. It was backed with the cockney-charm filled track, "Cheeky Sorta' Bird". At the time, Barbara Windsor was best known for starring in the successful "Carry On" movies. These days she's better known as Peggy Mitchell in the BBC soap "Eastenders".

Although "Grin And Bare It" wasn't a hit, Barbara Windsor did have a minor hit in 1999 alongside her Eastenders co-star Mike Reid, with the track "The More I See You" which reached #46 in the UK charts.

TRACKLISTING:

Grin And Bare It
Cheeky Sorta' Bird

PASSWORD: http://popgems.blogspot.com

*If you enjoy fun novelty/comedy records such as this, pay a visit to the VinylFun youtube channel.

Youssou N'Dour & Neneh Cherry - 7 Seconds

2009-04-21T16:43:00.002+01:00

"7 Seconds" is a song composed by Youssou N'Dour, Neneh Cherry, Cameron McVey and Jonathan Sharp, and was a track on Cherry's third album Man. Released as a a single, the song was a huge international hit in 1994, remaining on the charts for nearly half a year and reaching the top three in many countries including the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Australia, Russia and Poland. The song was most recently featured in the 2005 Uwe Boll directed movie 'Alone In The Dark'.

The single stayed at #1 for 16 consecutive weeks on the French Singles Chart, which was the record of the most weeks at the top at the time, and also rose to #3 in the UK Singles Chart.

TRACKLISTING:

7 Seconds (Radio Version)
7 Seconds (LP Version)
7 Seconds (New Old Mix)
7 Seconds (Dub Mix)
7 Seconds (Hip Hop Mix)

PASSWORD: http://popgems.blogspot.com

Ski Full Of Fitness Programme

2009-04-17T19:07:00.003+01:00

Something completely random, because I felt like it.

"Sitting crossed-legged on the floor, with your back straight, and your hands on your knees. Turn your head to the right on the count of 1, turn it to the left on the count of 2. Now roll it downwards and circle it to the right on the count of 3 & 4. Repeat all that to the left. Then, alternate sides. Are you ready?? Here we go!"

If you think you can manage that, then you need this - the Ski Full Of Fitness Programme. Given away, in the early 80's, by sending away six yoghurt pot lids or something. It's cheesy beyond belief, but completely brilliant & hilarious at the same time.

TRACKLISTING:

Into (Ski Yoghurt Theme)
Everybody Get Up
Words
I'm Gonna Live Forever (Fame)
Music
You're The One That I Want
YMCA
Don't Stop That Crazy Rhythm

PASSWORD: http://popgems.blogspot.com

A quick message to some...

2009-04-16T16:47:00.002+01:00

A quick message to those of you that have been bombarding me with emails asking for certain posts to be reuploaded.

PLEASE check the sharebee link carefully before you email me or send a message saying that the links are dead. On ALL of the emails i've received recently concerning dead SHAREBEE links, the links all still have working links within them.

On some of them, the RAPIDSHARE links have expired - but the ZSHARE, MEGAUPLOAD, and BADONGO links are all still working. So please check those links first before emailing me saying they're dead.

Thankyou.

East 17 - West End Girls

2009-04-15T15:41:00.005+01:00

From 1993, this was a cover of the Pet Shop Boys 1985 hit "West End Girls" and was the 5th single released by British boyband East 17. The track continued the success that the band were having that year, following on from "Deep" (UK #3) and "Slow It Down" (UK #13). "West End Girls" peaked at #11 in the UK, and #4 in Australia.

The band would have a further hit that year, "Alright" which peaked at #3 in the UK, and reached #1 in Australia & Latvia.

TRACKLISTING:

West End Girls (Faces On Posters Mix)
West End Girls (X Club Cut)
West End Girls (Kicking In Chairs Mix)
West End Girls (Surprisingly Butch Mix)
West End Girls (Knocking Down Tables Mix)
West End Girls (Crystal Clear Mix)

PASSWORD: http://popgems.blogspot.com

Lisa Stansfield - Change

2009-04-15T15:27:00.001+01:00

From 1991, this was the first single to be taken from Lisa Stansfield's 2nd album "Real Love". The track reached #10 in the UK chart, #21 in Australia and #27 in the US. It was followed-up with the singles "All Woman", "Time To Make You Mine" and "Set Your Loving Free" during 1991 & 1992.

TRACKLISTING:

Change
Change (Driza Bone Mix)
Change (Frankie Knuckles Mix)
Change (Metamorphosis Mix Edit)
Change (Metamorphosis Mix)

PASSWORD: http://popgems.blogspot.com

Lulu - Hurt Me So Bad

2009-04-13T23:35:00.001+01:00

From 1999, 'Hurt Me So Bad' was the first single from her provisionally titled album 'Where The Poor Boys Dance'. Ultimately though, due to the lack of success of the single, the album was not released. Although the single peaked at #42 in the UK charts it was a hit in the dance charts. It certainly helped that the track had been remixed by Almighty and also Club 69 (a.k.a. Peter Rauhofer). It's a great piece of late 90's pop and certainly deserved better success than it achieved.

TRACKLISTING:

Hurt Me So Bad (Almighty Radio Edit
Hurt Me So Bad (Almighty Mix)
Hurt Me So Bad (Club 69 UK Phunk Mix)
Hurt Me So Bad (Club 69 Tribal Vox Anthem)
Hurt Me So Bad (Damien Mendis Radio Edit)

PASSWORD: http://popgems.blogspot.com

Lisa Stansfield - Never, Never Gonna Give You Up

2009-04-13T23:23:00.004+01:00

From 1997, taken from her self-title 4th album "Lisa Stansfield". "Never, Never Gonna Give You Up" was a cover version of the 1973 hit by Barry White. The track peaked at #25 in the UK charts, and #38 in the US billboard charts.

TRACKLISTING:

Never, Never Gonna Give You Up (Radio Mix)
Never, Never Gonna Give You Up (Album Edit)
Never, Never Gonna Give You Up (Touch 2 Mix)
Never, Never Gonna Give You Up (Frankie Knuckles Hard & Sexy Radio)
Never, Never Gonna Give You Up (Mark!'s Transparent Vocal)

PASSWORD: http://popgems.blogspot.com

Doop - Doop

2009-04-13T22:08:00.005+01:00

Doop was a dance music production act from the Netherlands who scored an international club hit, as well as a UK Singles Chart #1 and a #2 Billboard Dance/Club hit, in 1994 with their title track "Doop".

The band consisted of producers Ferry Ridderhof and Peter Garnefski. The techno/house music song was influenced by 1920s dance, the Charleston, and is most remembered for its lyrics which kept repeating the 'Doop' name over a big band sampling. The duo were also responsible for the Australian gabber/hardcore Number One, "Here's Johnny", under the name Hocus Pocus in early 1995.

The follow up single under this band name was entitled "Huckleberry Jam" and reached #95 on the UK Singles Chart.

TRACKLISTING:

Doop (Urge 2 Merge Radio Mix)
Doop (Jean Lejeux Radio Mix)
Doop (Sidney Berlin Ragtime Radio Edit)
Doop (Mother Remix)
Doop (Judge Jules And Michael Skin Remix)

PASSWORD: http://popgems.blogspot.com

Sweet Female Attitude - Flowers

2009-04-13T21:52:00.001+01:00

Sweet Female Attitude were R&B duo Leanne Brown and Catherine Cassidy. They're widely considered a one-hit wonder, for the 2000 hit 'Flowers'. It was released as the UK charts were in the grip of the 'garage' phenomenan and reached #3.

TRACKLISTING:

Flowers (Sunship Radio Edit
Flowers (Sunship Mix)
Flowers (Wackside's Small Tweaker Radio Mix)
Flowers (Wackside's Tweaker Mix)
Flowers (C&J Mix)
Flowers (Supa Flyas Viva Mix)
Flowers (Solomon's Precious Mix)
Flowers (Sunship vs Chunky featuring Shado Kane)

PASSWORD: http://popgems.blogspot.com

Gina G - I Belong To You

2009-04-13T20:54:00.004+01:00

From 1996, this was the 2nd single released from her debut album 'Fresh'. It reached #6 in the UK charts, #34 in the Australian charts and #7 in Japan.

Four further singles were released from her debut album - "Fresh!", "Ti Amo", "Gimme Some Love", and "Everytime I Fall".

TRACKLISTING:

I Belong To You (Radio Edit)
I Belong To You (12" Extended Mix)
I Belong To You (Hysteric Ego Vocal Mix
I Belong To You (Matt Darey Mix)
I Belong To You (Phat'N'Phunky Club Mix
I Belong To You (Hysteric Ego Dub)

PASSWORD: http://popgems.blogspot.com

Five Star - Love Take Over

2009-04-09T15:35:00.005+01:00

From 1985, "Love Take Over" was the 6th single released by Five Star, and the 5th to be released from their debut album "Luxury Of Life". That year they had had two UK top 40 singles, "All Fall Down" (UK #15) & "Let Me Be The One" (UK #18). "Love Take Over" continued this success but missed out on a top 20 placing, peaking at #25.

It wouldn't be until early 1986 that Five Star would finally crack the top 10, with the #3 hit "System Addict".

TRACKLISTING:

Love Take Over
Love Take Over (Limit Edition Mix Edit)
Love Take Over (Limit Edition Mix)
Love Take Over (Paul Hardcastle Extended Mix)
Love Take Over (Dub Take Over)

PASSWORD: http://popgems.blogspot.com

Five Star - Whenever You're Ready

2009-04-08T18:04:00.005+01:00

From 1987, this was the first single released from Five Star's third album "Between The Lines". Both the album and single were released at the same time, with "Between the Lines" peaking at UK #7 and selling 350,000 copies, and "Whenever Your Ready" reaching #11 in the UK charts.

I've always felt this song certainly deserved a better chart placing. It will always be one of my top favourite Five Star songs. A definite Pop Gem.

TRACKLISTING:

Whenever You're Ready
Whenever You're Ready (The New York Mix)
Whenever You're Ready (Crazy Dub Jammy)

PASSWORD: http://popgems.blogspot.com

Five Star - There's A Brand New World

2009-04-07T21:39:00.001+01:00

From 1988, this was the 3rd single taken from the album 'Rock The World'. Unfortunately the new image and tougher rockier sound really wasn't sitting to well with the fans, and this track gave them one of the lowest chart positions. The single peaked at #61 in the UK charts. One final single was released from the album, 'Let Me Be Yours', which saw the return of a more soulful Five Star but this wasn't enough and it peaked at #51. 'There's A Brand New World' is a bit of a rock/rop anthem and certainly deserved better success.

TRACKLISTING:

There's A Brand New World
There's A Brand New World (12" Version)

PASSWORD: http://popgems.blogspot.com

Five Star - Somewhere Somebody

2009-04-07T21:27:00.001+01:00

From 1987, this was the third and final single released from the "Between The Lines" album. No promotional video was made to accompany this single as the band were too busy with the "Children Of The Night Tour". The live performance of the song became its 'official' video.

For it's release, the song was given a remix by Shep Pettibone. In my opinion the Shep Pettibone Edit is far superior to the album edit that was released, and I think if they had used the Pettibone edit for the Single version of the song (as they had done with "The Slightest Touch" earlier that year) then the track may well have been a bigger hit. The song's chart position of #23 became the group's lowest charting UK Top 40 single since "Love Take Over" in 1985.

TRACKLISTING:

Somewhere Somebody (Radio Edit)
Somewhere Somebody (Shep Pettibone Remix Edit)
Somewhere Somebody (Shep Pettibone Remix)
Somewhere Somebody (Shep's Dub Beats)

PASSWORD: http://popgems.blogspot.com

* The video featured here is a TV performance.

Five Star - Shine

2009-04-07T20:59:00.001+01:00

From 1991, this was the title track and ONLY single to be taken from Five Star's sixth album. The single was their third with record label Epic not to make the UK Top 40 (reaching #53). With this failure, their very last appearance on the UK Top 75 to date, Epic parted ways with Five Star, who would not release another single for the next four years.

TRACKLISTING:

Shine
Shine (New Jack Mix)
Shine (The Glamour Mix)
Feelings

PASSWORD: http://popgems.blogspot.com

Five Star - With Every Heartbeat

2009-04-07T20:35:00.001+01:00

With the failure of their 1988 leather-clad re-invention, the following year Five Star appeared to revert back to their previous form. 'With Every Heartbeat', released in April 1989, was the last single for their record label RCA. Despite being a great pop tune, it only managed to scrape in at #48 in the UK charts. The song never featured on any of their studio albums, but it was included on their 'Greatest Hits' collection.

TRACKLISTING:

With Every Heartbeat
With Every Heartbeat (Extended Version)

PASSWORD: http://popgems.blogspot.com

Five Star - Another Weekend

2009-04-07T20:26:00.001+01:00

This was the first single from Five Star's 1988 album 'Rock The World'. The song peaked at #18 on the UK singles chart but reached #1 on the UK dance chart. Opting for a harder edge, leather clad rock sound, this change in music style shocked many fans and critics alike. The band had been accused of removing themselves from their unique style of pop which had made them famous. All the women in the group had hair extensions for their new image, with lead singer Denise opting for long blond extensions.

All these changes would eventually prove a mistake career wise for Five Star as the next few singles would not fare as well as previous releases. The 'Rock The World' album fared well (reaching UK #17), but did not have the staying power of previous albums. Despite of all this, 'Another Weekend' is a tasty slice of late 80's dance pop.

TRACKLISTING:

Another Weekend
Another Weekend (Friday Night Mix)
Another Weekend (Friday Night Dub)
Another Weekend (Saturday Night Mix)

PASSWORD: http://popgems.blogspot.com

Five Star - Find The Time

2009-04-07T20:09:00.001+01:00

From 1986, this was the second single to be released from Five Star's "Silk and Steel" album. It was written by Nick Trevisick and Paul Gurvitz who had previously written the single "R.S.V.P." for the band the previous year. The track peaked at #7 in the UK charts of that year.

TRACKLISTING:

Find The Time
Find The Time (12" Version)
Find The Time (Shep Pettibone Remix)
Find The Time (Shep Pettibone Dub Mix)

PASSWORD: http://popgems.blogspot.com

Dame Edna Everage - Bad

2009-03-30T21:27:00.001+01:00

"Bad" was included on Dame Edna's 1987 album "The Dame Edna Party Experience". It was a sequenced album full of cover versions such as "I Should Be So Lucky", "Venus", "The Twist", "I Wanna Dance With Somebody" and the theme from Australian soap-opera "Neighbours", all performed in her unique comedy style. "Neighbours" was released as a single, where it peaked at a disappointing #83 in the UK charts.

"Niceness" is Dame Edna's theme tune, and was featured on her 1978 album "The Sound Of Edna".

TRACKLISTING:

Bad
Niceness

PASSWORD: http://popgems.blogspot.com

Barbara Cartland's Album Of Love Songs

2009-03-28T16:11:00.006Z

Dame Barbara Cartland is best known as a romantic novelist. She is often called "The Queen of Romance". In 1978 she recorded an album of Love Songs, featuring The Mike Sammes Singers and the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra.

It's debatable whether the album is a stroke of genius - or completely awful. You can judge for yourself. There is something quite hypnotic about it though. And while you may be listening to it, thinking "God..this is terrible", you may find yourself unable to stop listening. Possibly.. :D

TRACKLISTING:

I'll Follow My Heart
Desert Song
A Nightingale Sang In Berkely Sqaure
How Deep Is The Ocean
If You Were The Only Girl
I'll See You Again
Mr Wonderful
Dream Lover
Love Is My Reason
Always
If You Are But A Dream
Goodnight Sweetheart

PASSWORD: http://popgems.blogspot.com

2 Unlimited - Twilight Zone

2009-03-10T21:07:00.008Z

From 1992, "Twilight Zone" was a hit single released by the Dutch Eurodance group 2 Unlimited. It reached #2 in the UK and #5 on the U.S. Dance chart, thus becoming their biggest hit on that chart. The UK release of the single was the first 2 Unlimited single in that country to include the vocals by singer Anita Doth, as they had been cut out of their previous hit "Get Ready for This". However, Ray Slijngaard's raps were once again removed.

This song is notable for it's resemblance to the original Mortal Kombat theme tune.

TRACKLISTING:

Twilight Zone (7" Edit)
Twilight Zone (Rap Version)
Twilight Zone (Rave Version)
Twilight Zone (Rapping Rave Version)

PASSWORD: http://popgems.blogspot.com

East 17 - Deep

2009-03-10T20:40:00.001Z

From 1993, this was the third single from East 17's "Walthamstow" album. At the time it provided them with their biggest hit, peaking at #5 in the UK, #7 in Australia and #6 in Sweden. The track was produced by Robin Goodfellow but featured additional production from Ian Curnow & Phil Harding. The "Penetration Mix" was by David Morales and the "Throat Mix" was provided by Diss-Cuss.

TRACKLISTING:

Deep (Breath Mix)
Deep (Penetration Mix)
Deep (Throat Mix)
Deep (Down Mix)
Deep (Depth Mix)
Deep (Meaning Mix)
Deep (Delta Steam House Of Funk Mix)

PASSWORD: http://popgems.blogspot.com

Salt 'N' Pepa - Push It [Again]

2009-03-09T13:36:00.005Z

"Push It" was originally a hit for Salt 'N' Pepa in 1987. This 1999 re-release, labled as "Push It [Again]" featured remixes from DJ Tonka, Sharam Jey, Klubbheads, and Orinko (aka Timo Maas). It was released as a single in Germany, where it peaked at #26 in the German singles chart.

TRACKLISTING:

Push It [Again] (DJ Tonka Remix Edit)
Push It [Again] (DJ Tonka Remix)
Push It [Again] (Klubbheads '98 Mix)
Push It [Again] (Sharam Jey's Push It Lover Mix)
Push It [Again] (Orinko's Tribal Dub)
Push It [Again] (Silly Walk Mix)
Push It (Original Version)

PASSWORD: http://popgems.blogspot.com

Sinitta - Never Too Late

2009-03-09T12:55:00.006Z

Does anyone out there have Sinitta's other early solo single "I Could Be". I'm looking for the 7"/Single version. If you can help with this then please contact me. Thanks!

From 1983, this was Sinitta's debut solo single. Written and produced by J.G.Hargreaves & A.Ajai-Ajagbe, and released on Midas Records. John 'Jellybean' Benitez is credited as the remixer on the Extended Version.

The song is a great example of the pop sound that Sinitta would become known for. Sadly the song wasn't a hit, but it's a Pop Gems nonetheless!

TRACKLISTING:

Never Too Late
Never Too Late (Extended Version)

PASSWORD: http://popgems.blogspot.com

*Thanks to Ian for the extended mix.

Cathy Dennis - West End Pad

2009-03-08T23:52:00.001Z

From 1996, this was the first single taken from Cathy Dennis's third album "Am I The Kinda Girl?" For this album, and all the released singles, Cathy Dennis had moved away from the dance-orientated sound that she had become known for and went for a more mature sounding guitar-based sound.

"West End Pad" was released as a 2 CD Single set and peaked at #25 in the UK charts. The setfeatured an Extended Mix of the song, and also two non-album tracks "Baggage" and "Run Like A River".

TRACKLISTING:

West End Pad
West End Pad (Extended Mix)
West End Pad (Alternative Supple 7")
Baggage
Run Like A River

PASSWORD: http://popgems.blogspot.com

Cheryl Baker - Sensuality

2009-03-08T19:32:00.001Z

Cheryl Baker is an English television presenter and singer. She is most famous for being a member of 1980s pop group Bucks Fizz, and has performed for the UK in the Eurovision Song Contest twice, winning it the second time.

From 1992, this was Cheryl Bakers second solo single. (Her first being 'If Paradise Is Half As Nice' in 1987.) Sadly, 'Sensuality' faired even worse that her first solo single and didn't even chart in the UK. For the release, she dropped her surname and just called herself 'Cheryl'. The b-side to the single was new track 'Love To Love'.

TRACKLISTING:

Sensuality (7" Radio Mix)
Sensuality (12" Club Mix)
Love To Love

PASSWORD: http://popgems.blogspot.com

Tricia Leigh Fisher - Empty Beach

2009-03-02T23:13:00.006Z

Does anyone out there have any of the remixes for Tricia Leigh Fisher's singles "Empty Beach" & "Let's Make The Time"?? If you can help with these then please contact me. Thanks!

Tricia Leigh Fisher is an American actress and singer. Her older sister is actress Joely Fisher, and her older half-sister is actress Carrie Fisher of Star Wars fame. In 1990, Tricia Leigh Fisher's self-titled debut album was released. It featured tracks produced by Rod Gammons, Phil Harding & Ian Curnow, and mixing on some tracks from Dave Ford. Many of the tracks featured backing vocals from Mae McKenna, Miriam Stockley, and Tracy Ackerman.

"Empty Beach" was the first single released from the album. A great little pop song that was a modest hit. Second single "Let's Make The Time" unfortunately wasn't a hit. A third single was released, double a-side "My Heart Holds On"/"Good As Gold".

TRACKLISTING:

Empty Beach

PASSWORD: http://popgems.blogspot.com

Thereza Bazar - The Big Kiss

2009-03-02T13:45:00.008Z

Thereza Bazar is one half of UK pop vocal duo Dollar. She released one solo album in 1985 called The Big Kiss, which she co-wrote. It was produced by Arif Mardin and featured the singles "The Big Kiss" and "Too Much in Love". The album reportedly cost half a million pounds to produce and generated media attention, but according to Bazar, the album's circulation was poor due to a mix-up at the record company, with the album unavailable at the time of its advertised release. Today Bazar mentions the incident as the most upsetting of her career, but she has high regard for the album, saying it had "a strong pedigree.

Despite it's lack of success, i'd agree with Bazar's regard for the "The Big Kiss". It's a great 80's pop album, and definitely well worth a listen.

TRACKLISTING:

The Big Kiss
I See It In Your Eyes
Too Much In Love
English Girl Should Not, No! No!
Give Me Back My Heart
Never Make The Same Mistake
Traitor Of The Heart
Save Me
Give Yourself Up
You're All I Ever Wanted

PASSWORD: http://popgems.blogspot.com

*Thanks to Mikeyten for this!

Thereza Bazar - Gotcha!

2009-03-02T03:03:00.007Z

Thereza Bazar is one half of UK pop vocal duo Dollar. In 1985 she released a solo album "The Big Kiss". Two singles were released from the album, title track "The Big Kiss" & "Too Much In Love" but met with little success. Problems at the time with the promotion of the album meant that that also was a commercial failure.

"Gotcha" was not featured on her solo album. It's taken from the soundtrack of the little known 1985 movie "Gotcha!" Starring Anthony Edwards as Jonathan, a college student on vacation in Europe for the first time. He gets involved in an affair with a beautiful, mysterious woman. This leads to Jonathan becoming a target for spies. Woo! lol

A lame movie plot, but a great pop song!

TRACKLISTING:

Gotcha!

PASSWORD: http://popgems.blogspot.com

Dollar - It's Nature's Way (No Problem)

2009-03-01T18:55:00.010Z

Dollar are a pop vocal duo from the UK, consisting of David Van Day and Thereza Bazar. The duo were successful in the late 1970s and 1980s. From 1988, this was the last single released by the duo. They had had a big hit the previous year with "Oh L'Amour" (UK #7, November 1987) but sadly failed to find the same success with "It's Nature's Way". The track peaked in the UK charts at #58 in July 1988.

TRACKLISTING:

It's Nature's Way (No Problem) (7" Version)
It's Nature's Way (No Problem) (12" Version)

*thanks to the itshouldhavebeenahit blog for the 7" version.

PASSWORD: http://popgems.blogspot.com

Maxx - Get-A-Way

2009-02-26T19:22:00.005Z

Maxx was a German/Swedish Eurodance act. "Get-A-Way" featured rapper Boris Köhler (under the stage name of Gary B) & female singer Samira Besic on vocals. It was a dancefloor hit all over Europe, peaking at #4 in the UK Singles Chart in June 1994. By this time, Besic had already left the act for a solo career, and was replaced by Linda Meek.

More similar hits "No More (I Can't Stand It)" and "You Can Get It" followed, as well as an album entitled "To The Maxximum", but their success was short-lived. "I Can Make You Feel Like" was a flop, and another new single released in 1995 called "Move Your Body" failed to chart.

TRACKLISTING:

Get-A-Way (Airplay Mix)
Get-A-Way (Original Club Mix)
Get-A-Way (Piano Mix)
Get-A-Way (Red Jerry Mix)
Get-A-Way (Red Jerry Dub)
Get-A-Way (Get In Trance Mix)

PASSWORD: http://popgems.blogspot.com

Colonel Abrams - Trapped '97

2009-02-26T18:02:00.007Z

"Trapped" is a single released in 1985 by American dance music artist Colonel Abrams in 1985. It has since become known as Abrams' signature song and still receives airplay on dance radio stations in the UK and the US. The song combines elements of both R&B and dance.

This is the 1997 remix, which featured remixes from Al Faris & Andrew Wooden, DJ Tonka, and Hornbostel.

TRACKLISTING:

Trapped '97 (Massive Radio Edit)
Trapped '97 (Massive Mix)
Trapped '97 (Club Mix)
Trapped '97 (DJ Tonka Remix)
Trapped '97 (Hornbostel Remix)

PASSWORD: http://popgems.blogspot.com

The Mighty Dub Katz - Just Another Groove

2009-02-26T17:23:00.007Z

Mighty Dub Katz are DJ Norman Cook (aka Fatboy Slim) and Gareth Hansome (aka GMoney). "Just Another Groove" was released in 1996, where it peaked at #43 in the UK charts in December of that year. The b-side of the single was "It's Just a Groove". The group also had hits with "Magic Carpet Ride" (UK #24, August 1997) and "Let The Drums Speak" (UK #73, December 2002).

"Just Another Groove" was remixed & re-released as a club track in 2008, featuring remixes from Tocadisco, Williams vs Pitch, Nathan Detroit vs The Wizard, and also Ashley Beedle.

TRACKLISTING:

Just Another Groove (Blunt Edit)
Just Another Groove (Lisa Marie Experience Remix)
Just Another Groove (Original Mix)
It's Just A Groove

PASSWORD: http://popgems.blogspot.com

Mirage - Jack Mix In Full Effect

2009-02-25T17:08:00.004Z

Mirage was a dance act who produced albums & singles of medleys of the latest chart hits. Released in 1988, "Jack Mix In Full Effect" was produced by Nigel Wright, with vocals provided by Kiki Billy, Nicos Griffiths, and Carlos Griffiths. Backing vocals were by Tracy Ackerman & Nigel Wright. The group had had a top ten single the year before, with "Jack Mix II/III" reaching #4 in the UK charts in June 1987.

"Jack Mix In Full Effect" was the follow-up album to "The Best Of Mirage Jack Mix '88" (UK #7, February 1988), and performed just as well peaking at #7 in the UK album charts in July 1988.

TRACKLISTING:

Jack Mix: BEAT DIS. PUSH BEAT. JUST A MIRAGE. LET'S ALL CHANT. THAT'S THE WAY IT IS. DOCTORIN' THE HOUSE. I WANT YOU BACK. THEME FROM S-EXPRESS. BUST THIS HOUSE DOWN. A LOVE SUPREME. TELL IT TO MY HEART. WHO'S LEAVING WHO. ROK DA HOUSE. TIRED OF GETTING PUSHED AROUND. BASS (HOW LOW CAN YOU GO). GOT TO BE CERTAIN. WHO FOUND WHO. PINK CADILLAC. GTO. HOUSE ARREST. I SHOULD BE SO LUCKY. SHAKE YOUR LOVE. WHEN I THINK OF YOU. TIGHTEN UP-JUST CAN'T STOP DANCIN'. CROSS MY BROKEN HEART. SET IT OFF. O L'AMOUR. PACKJAMMED (WITH THE PARTY POSSE). BOOGIE OOGIE OOGIE. JINGO. I CAN'T HELP IT. SOMEWHERE SOMEBODY

Pebble Mix: JUST A MIRAGE. GIRLFRIEND. THE PAYBACK MIX PART 1. I NEED A MAN. I'M NOT SCARED. COME INTO MY LIFE. I WANT YOU BACK. SAY IT AGAIN. LOVE CHANGES (EVERYTHING). NEVER KNEW LOVE LIKE THIS. I GET WEAK. HEAVEN IS A PLACE ON EARTH. I WANT HER. DON'T TURN AROUND. HEART. DREAMING. DON'T LOOK ANY FURTHER. I DON'T WANT TO BE A HERO.

Hip Hop Mix: I WANT HER. I'M SO HAPPY. I WON'T CRY. GOOD GROOVE. I WANT YOU BACK '88. PACKJAMMED (WITH THE PARTY POSSE). IT TAKES TWO. THE PAYBACK MIX PART 1. GET LUCKY. HEY MR HEARTACHE. INTERVENTION. WILD WILD WEST.

PASSWORD: http://popgems.blogspot.com

TJR Feat. Xavier - Just Gets Better

2009-02-25T16:04:00.004Z

From 1997, "Just Gets Better" started off life as a full vocal house/club track. It became best known in the form of the TJR Dub version, which transformed it into an uplifting speed-garage classic. The track peaked at #28 in the UK charts in September 1997.

TRACKLISTING:

Just Gets Better (TJR Dub Radio Edit)
Just Gets Better (North Menn Vocal Radio Edit)
Just Gets Better (Todd Edwards Remix)
Just Gets Better (Todd Edwards Underground Version)
Just Gets Better (Tommy Musto Vocal Vibe)
Just Gets Better (TJR Dub)

PASSWORD: http://popgems.blogspot.com

Kim Wilde - Who Do You Think You Are?

2009-02-25T15:11:00.005Z

From 1992, this was the third single taken from Kim Wilde's "Love Is" album. The previous single, "Heart Over Mind" had only been released in the UK, making this the second international single. The track was remixed slightly from the album version by Stephen Streater, and club remixes from Bruce Forest were also produced.

Wilde hadn't had a top 40 UK hit for three years, but had returned to the UK charts with the first single from the album "Love Is Holy" (UK #16, May 1992). "Heart Over Mind" had struggled, peaking at #34 in July 1992, and sadly "Who Do You Think You Are?" faired even worse peaking at #49 in September 1992. It certainly deserved better.

No further singles were released in the UK from "Love Is", although the song "Million Miles Away" was released as a remixed single in Japan and some parts of Europe.

TRACKLISTING:

Who Do You Think You Are? (7" Version)
Who Do You Think You Are? (Extended Version)
Who Do You Think You Are? (Bruce Forest 7" Remix)
Who Do You Think You Are? (Bruce Forest 12" Remix)
Who Do You Think You Are? (Bruce Forest Dub Mix)

PASSWORD: http://popgems.blogspot.com

Q featuring Tracy Ackerman - Get Here

2009-02-24T22:50:00.003Z

Tracy Ackerman is a British singer and songwriter. She has co-written many tracks for other artists, including - Bewitched "C'est La Vie", Celine Dion "Ain't Gonna Look The Other Way", Dannii Minogue "Get Into You", Rozalla "All That I Need", Tina Turner "All The Woman", and many many others.

"Get Here" was a dance cover version of the 1991 hit by Oleta Adams. It peaked at #37 in the UK charts in June 1993. The b-side was an Ackerman co-written piece called "I Wish".

TRACKLISTING:

Get Here
Get Here (12" Extended Mix)
Get Here (Reel Time Remix)
I Wish

PASSWORD: http://popgems.blogspot.com

S Club - Alive / Dance

2009-02-24T22:03:00.005Z

From 2002, "Alive" was the first single to be released under the S Club name rather than S Club 7, and it was also the first single to be released without Paul Cattermole. "Alive" was the penultimate S Club single and apart from the Double A-Side "Say Goodbye/Love Ain't Gonna Wait for You", was the only track to be released from the fourth album, "Seeing Double". It reached #5 in the UK Singles Chart.

The album track "Dance" was also promoted for this single release, and received a remix. The B-Side, 'Discotek' was led and co-written by S Club member Tina Barrett.

TRACKLISTING:

Alive (Radio Version)
Alive (Almighty Mix)
Dance (Radio Version)
Dance (Harry's Afro Hut Wonky Remix)
Discotek

PASSWORD: http://popgems.blogspot.com

Technotronic (feat. MC Eric) - This Beat Is Technotronic

2009-02-24T20:32:00.006Z

From 1990, this was the third single to be released from Technotronic's debut 1989 album. The track performed well, peaking at #27 in Australia, #18 in France, #14 in the UK, #10 in Germany, #8 in Switzerland, #7 in Holland, and #3 in the U.S. Billboard Hot Dance Club Play chart.

TRACKLISTING:

This Beat Is Technotronic (Single Version)
This Beat Is Technotronic (My Favourite Club Mix)
This Beat Is Technotronic (Alaska Dub)
This Beat Is Technotronic (Rap To Beats)
This Beat Is Technotronic (Beats & Bass)

PASSWORD: http://popgems.blogspot.com

Rolf Harris - Bohemian Rhapsody

2009-02-24T19:04:00.004Z

Rolf Harris is an Australian musician, singer, composer, painter, and television host and personality. He had several hits during the 1960s, including "Tie Me Kangaroo Down Sport", "Sun Arise", and "Two Little Boys". In 1993 he made a surprise return to the UK charts with a cover version of the Led Zepplin song "Stairway To Heaven" (UK #8, February 1993).

In 1996 this cover version of the Queen hit "Bohemian Rhapsody" was released. Unfortunately it couldn't match the success of "Stairway To Heaven" and peaked at #50 in the UK charts in (UK #50, June 1996). The b-sides were "Ego Sum Pauper (Rolfa Mix)" and "This Is A Didgeridoo!".

Rolf would return again to the UK charts, in 1997 with a remixed version of "Sun Arise" (UK #26, October 1997) and also in 2000 with "Fine Day" (UK #24, October 2000).

TRACKLISTING:

Bohemian Rhapsody
Bohemian Rhapsody (Instrumental)
Ego Sum Pauper (Rolfa Mix)
This Is A Didgeridoo!

PASSWORD: http://popgems.blogspot.com

Lulu - Independence

2009-02-24T18:28:00.004Z

From 1993, this track saw Lulu return to the UK charts after nearly a 7 year absence - her last hit being a re-recorded version of "Shout" (UK #8, August 1986). For its release, the song was remixed by Brothers In Rhythm, and the track peaked at #11 in the UK charts in February 1993.

The album "Independence" followed, along with further hits - "I'm Back for More" (UK #27, April 1993), "Let Me Wake Up In Your Arms" (UK #51, September 1993), "How 'Bout Us" (UK #46, December 1993), and of course the collaboration with Take That "Relight My Fire" (UK #1, October 1993).

TRACKLISTING:

Independence (Brothers In Rhythm 7" Mix)
Independence (C.J. Mackintosh Club Mix)
Independence (Brothers In Rhythm Club Mix)
Independence (C.J. Mackintosh (Radio Mix)
Independence (Mackapella Mix)

PASSWORD: http://popgems.blogspot.com

East Side Beat - Ride Like The Wind

2009-02-24T18:21:00.005Z

"Ride Like The Wind" was a cover version of the 1980 hit by Christopher Cross. East Side Beat's version of the track reached #3 in the UK charts in December 1991. The dance act would act two other minor hits - "Alive And Kicking" (UK #26, December 1992) & "You're My Everything" (UK #65, May 1993).

TRACKLISTING:

Ride Like The Wind (Factory Edit)
Ride Like The Wind (Factory Mix)
Ride Like The Wind (Piano Version)
Ride Like The Wind (Oceanic Remix)
Ride Like The Wind (Subway Mix)

PASSWORD: http://popgems.blogspot.com

Giga Hits '95

2009-02-22T18:26:00.009Z

From 1995, "Giga Hits '95" is a German compilation featuring hits from that year. Bizarrely it's labeled as "Mr.Bean Presents Giga Hits 95" and featured a CD-rom element with a 12 minute "The Best Of Mr.Bean" video highlighting silly moments from the comedy character.

CD1 TRACKLISTING:

Ace Of Base - Lucky Love
D.J. Bobo - Freedom
Nightcrawlers - Push The Feeling On
Mark 'Oh - I Can't Get No (Wahaha)
Celvin Rotane - I Believe
The Outhere Brothers - Boom Boom Boom
The Bucketheads - The Bomb (These Sounds Fall Into My Mind)
20 Fingers - Short Dick Man
Sin With Sebastian - Shut Up (And Sleep With Me)
Charly Lownoise & Mental Theo - Stars
Masterboy - Anybody (Movin' On)
RMB - Experience
Das Modul - Kleine Maus
Dune - Are You Ready To Fly
Scooter - Friends
Mark 'Oh - Tears Don't Lie
Marusha - Deep
Technohead - I Wanna Be A Hippy

CD2 TRACKLISTING:

The Cranberries - Zombie
U2 - Hold Me, Thrill Me, Kiss Me
Bon Jovi - Someday I'll Be Saturday Night
The Connells - '74-'75
Rednex - Wish You Were Here
Sheryl Crow - All I Wanna Do
Sting - This Cowboy Song
Celine Dion - Think Twice
East 17 - Stay Another Day
Adiemus - Adiemus
Andru Donalds - Mishale
Seal - Kiss From A Rose
Freak Power - Turn On, Tune In, Cop Out
Ini Kamoze - Here Comes The Hotstepper
Gompie - Alice (Who The X Is Alice?)
La Bouche - Fallin' In Love
Fun Factory - Celebration
Scatman John - Scatman (Ski-Ba-Bop-Ba-Dop-Bop)
Just Friends - Ever And Ever

CD2 PART 1

CD2 PART 2

PASSWORD: http://popgems.blogspot.com

Salt 'N' Pepa - You Showed Me

2009-02-17T23:11:00.006Z

From 1991, "You Showed Me" was taken from Salt 'N' Pepa's 1990 album "Blacks' Magic". It also featured on their 1991 "Greatest Hits" album. Follow-up to the huge hit "Let's Talk About Sex", the track was a moderate success around the world, reaching #47 in America, #24 In Australia, #15 in the UK, and #13 in Germany.

TRACKLISTING:

You Showed Me (The Born Again Mix)
You Showed Me (The Born Again Club Mix)
You Showed Me (Album Version)

PASSWORD: http://popgems.blogspot.com

Right Said Fred - Don't Talk Just Kiss

2009-02-17T22:14:00.004Z

This was Right Said Fred's 2nd single, and was the follow-up to the massive hit "I'm Too Sexy". The song features background vocals by R&B and dance singer Jocelyn Brown. Taken from their debut album "Up" the track gave the group another top 5 UK hit, peaking at #3. It also charted in the U.S., but peaked at #76.

TRACKLISTING:

Don't Talk Just Kiss (7" Mix)
Don't Talk Just Kiss (7" Dance Mix)
Don't Talk Just Kiss (Dick's 12" Mix)
Don't Talk Just Kiss (Deep Throat Mix)
Don't Talk Just Kiss (Suck Face 12" Mix)
Don't Talk Just Kiss (Miss Brown's Dolly Mix-ture)
Don't Talk Just Kiss (Beat-Nicked Mix)
Don't Talk Just Kiss (Fredo's Vocal Dub)

PASSWORD: http://popgems.blogspot.com

Samantha Fox - I Wanna Have Some Fun

2009-02-17T21:15:00.001Z

From 1989, this was the title track of Samantha Fox's 3rd album "I Wanna Have Some Fun". The track was produced by Full Force, who had also produced the 1988 hit "Naughty Girls (Need Love Too)". The song peaked at #8 in the U.S. charts, #10 in Canada, but unfortunately only #63 in the UK.

TRACKLISTING:

I Wanna Have Some Fun (UK Single Edit)
I Wanna Have Some Fun (Extended Version)
I Wanna Have Some Fun (Full Force Single Edit)
I Wanna Have Some Fun (Have Some Fun Mix)
I Wanna Have Some Fun (Fun House Mix)

PASSWORD: http://popgems.blogspot.com

Aneka - Japanese Boy

2009-02-17T20:59:00.001Z

Aneka (born Mary Sandeman) is best known for her 1981 hit 'Japanese Boy'. It was a huge hit all around the world, but sadly she was unable to match its success with any of her subsequent releases. She released an album and 2 further singles from it, 'Little Lady' and 'Ohh Shooby Doo Doo Lang'. She's often seen as a one-hit wonder, but her album (for a one-hit wonder) is surprisingly good.

TRACKLISTING:

Ohh Shooby Doo Do Lang
Tuwhit Tuwhoo
Japanese Boy
Put Out The Light
Come Back To Me
Ahriman
It'll Be Alright
Be My Only Karma
I Was Free
Little Lady
Japanese Boy (Maxi Version)
Ae Fond Kiss

PASSWORD: http://popgems.blogspot.com

Zoë - Lightning

2009-02-09T22:27:00.002Z

From 1991, this was the 2nd single released by Zoë, taken from the album "Scarlet, Red and Blue". The track was the follow-up to the top ten hit "Sunshine On A Rainy Day" (a remix of which appeared as the b-side to "Lightning") but couldn't match its success and peaked at #37 in the UK charts in November of that year. A 3rd single "Holy Days" was released in 1992, but only managed to reach #72 in the UK charts.

In 1996, Zoë re-emerged with a totally revamped image, style and sound. Her new album, "Hammer" was released to rave reviews in the UK. The title track was released as a single, but failed to even reach the top 75.

TRACKLISTING:

Lightning (7" Edit)
Lightning (12" Edit)
Sunshine On A Rainy Day (Acappella)

PASSWORD: http://popgems.blogspot.com

Grace Jones vs Funkstar De Luxe - Pull Up To The Bumper

2009-02-04T22:43:00.001Z

Martin Ottesen AKA 'Funkstar De Luxe' remixed Grace Jones 1981 hit 'Pull Up To The Bumper' in 2000. It was a top 5 dance hit. He'd had a hit the previous year with a remix of the Bob Marley track 'Sun Is Shining'. The b-side of the track was "Pingüino".

TRACKLISTING:

Pull Up To The Bumper (Airplay Mix)
Pull Up To The Bumper (Funk's Extension Mix)
Pull Up To The Bumper (Funk's Drive It In Between Dub)
Pingüino

PASSWORD: http://popgems.blogspot.com

East 17 - Steam

2009-02-04T22:00:00.001Z

From 1994, this was the second single taken from East 17's album of the same name "Steam". The track was the follow-up to the hit single "All Around The World" (UK #3). It performed well for the band, giving them another top ten hit peaking at #7 in the UK charts, #18 in Australia, and #34 in Sweden.

TRACKLISTING:

Steam (Vapoureyes Mix)
Steam (Carter USM SW2 Mix)
Steam (Overworld Haze Mix)
Steam (Overworld Haze Dub)
Steam (P & C Mix)
Steam (Man City Overheat Mix)

PASSWORD: http://popgems.blogspot.com

Liza Minnelli - Don't Drop Bombs

2009-02-04T21:01:00.001Z

From 1989, this was the second single taken from Liza Minnelli's "Results" album. Packed full of energy & attitude, this Pet Shop Boys written & produced track should've been a much bigger hit than it was. It followed the success of the single 'Losing My Mind' (UK #6 1989) but unfortunately could not match it, peaking at #46 in the UK charts in October 1989.

TRACKLISTING:

Don't Drop Bombs (Album Version)
Don't Drop Bombs (Extended Version)
Don't Drop Bombs (Dub Mix)
Don't Drop Bombs (Disconet Mix)
Don't Drop Bombs (Acapella)
Don't Drop Bombs (Sonic Project Club Mix)

PASSWORD: http://popgems.blogspot.com

Hard To Find Trax Blog

2009-01-30T02:42:00.002Z

Just a little plug for another great blog here. If you haven't visited it already, please take a click to "Hard To Find Trax". http://hardtofindtrax.blogspot.com/

It's a great blog, with some really really excellent posts! If you like Pop Gems then you're sure to like Hard To Find Trax too.

Rozalla - Faith (In The Power Of Love)

2009-01-29T00:24:00.004Z

Rozalla is a female dance music performer, who was christened "the queen of rave". "Faith (In The Power Of Love)" was her 2nd released single, the first being "Born To Luv Ya", but peaked at #65 in the UK charts first time around. She had a huge hit with the 3rd release "Everybody's Free (To Feel Good)" which reached #6 in the UK charts. This success lead to "Faith" being re-released, and second time around it reached #11.

Subsequent hits from Rozalla included "Are You Ready To Fly", "Love Breakdown", "I Love Music", "You Never Love The Same Way Twice", and "Baby" amongst others.

TRACKLISTING:

Faith (In The Power Of Love) (7" Version)
Faith (In The Power Of Love) (Teknokraft Edit)
Faith (In The Power Of Love) (Musik Out Of Control Mix)
Faith (In The Power Of Love) (Space Station Mix)
Faith (In The Power Of Love) (12" Mix)
Faith (In The Power Of Love) (Teknokraft Mix)

PASSWORD: http://popgems.blogspot.com

Martha Wash - Give It To You

2009-01-21T15:50:00.004Z

Martha Wash is probably best known as one half of The Weather Girls, but over the years she has provided vocals for many hit tracks - including Black Box - "I Don't Know Anybody Else", "Everybody Everybody", "Fantasy", "Strike It Up", C+C Music Factory "Everybody Dance Now (Gonna Make You Sweat)" and with Seduction "You're My One And Only (True Love)"

"Give It To You" is one of her few solo singles, taken from her self-titled solo debut album "Martha Wash". It peaked at #90 on the US Billboard Hot 100 & #1 on the Billboard Hot Dance Club Play chart. It also reached #37 in the UK singles chart, in March 1993. The track featured remixes from David Morales, and also Maurice Joshua.

TRACKLISTING:

Give It To You (Radio Edit)
Give It To You (Momo's Klub Mix)
Give It To You (Dead Zone Mix)
Give It To You (Maurice's Underground Playground)
Give It To You (Def Dub Mix)
Give It To You (Momo's Dub Mix)

PASSWORD: http://popgems.blogspot.com

Password Issues & Extracting RAR File Tools

2009-01-20T16:38:00.002Z

PASSWORD ISSUES:
Some of you have messaging me saying that the Password is not correct on some of the files. You must make sure that when you copy the password that you do not get any extra spaces at the beginning or end of the password, it must be copied or typed exactly as it is written in the post.

The people that have messaged me recently saying that the password is wrong, or that the RAR is corrupt on certain files - I have downloaded and checked them, and they're working fine.

Please try extracting again, and make sure you are entering the password correctly.

EXTRACTING RAR FILE TOOLS:
The following are the free tools you will need to unpack the files after you download them.

For Windows/PC users: WinRar

For Mac users: UnrarX

Thanks, and I hope you're all still enjoying the blog.

Victoria Wilson James - Reach 4 The Melody

2009-01-19T20:33:00.005Z

Victoria Wilson James is a vocalist who has had a varied solo career, including working with such groups such as Soul II Soul and The Shamen. She entered the UK charts in 1991 with the song "Through" which peaked at #77. Unfortunately I haven't been able to find out much more about her.

"Reach 4 The Melody" is taken from her 1997 album "Colorfields". The single version was featured remixes by Boris Dlugosch and Alex Party. The track peaked at #72 in the UK charts in August 1997.

TRACKLISTING:

Reach 4 The Melody (Boris Dlugosch Clubbers Vocal Radio Edit)
Reach 4 The Melody (Boris Dlugosch 3rd Ear Symbiosis Radio Edit)
Reach 4 The Melody (Boris Dlugosch On A Samba Trip)
Reach 4 The Melody (Boris Dlugosch Clubbers Vocal)
Reach 4 The Melody (Boris Dlugosch Dub)
Reach 4 The Melody (Alex Party Underparty)

PASSWORD: http://popgems.blogspot.com

Pia Zadora - Dance Out Of My Head

2009-01-19T15:50:00.001Z

Pia Zadora is an American actress and singer. "Dance Out Of My Head" is taken from her 1988 album "When The Lights Go Out". The album was produced by Jam & Lewis and they gave the album their trademark sound. The lead single was a minor dance hit, and peaked at #65 in the UK charts.

The video was interesting, as it started off as an animated piece and then lead into live action with Pia dancing & performing with her band. The track featured remixes from Shep Pettibone, Jam & Lewis, Ben Liebrand, and Razormaid.

TRACKLISTING:

Dance Out Of My Head (Album Version)
Dance Out Of My Head (Dressed-Down Mix)
Dance Out Of My Head (House Groove Vocal)
Dance Out Of My Head (Jam & Lewis Remix)
Dance Out Of My Head (Dub Version)
Dance Out Of My Head (Ben Liebrand Mix)
Dance Out Of My Head (Razormaid Remix)

PASSWORD: http://popgems.blogspot.com

*thanks to Simon, Steen, Mark, Raul & Danny for help with these remixes!

Dusty Springfield - In Private

2009-01-18T15:07:00.003Z

From 1989, "In Private" was the third single in a row to be a charting success for British singer Dusty Springfield, after nearly two decades of little if any chart success. Both "In Private" and Springfield's previous single, "Nothing Has Been Proved" were produced by Pet Shop Boys, who helped return Springfield to prominence with their 1987 hit collaboration "What Have I Done to Deserve This?". Both Springfield singles were included on her 1990 British album "Reputation".

The single peaked at #14 in the UK charts. A separate remix single featuring remixes from Shep Pettibone was also released, and though not released as a single in the America, it proved to be popular with club DJs on both coasts.

TRACKLISTING:

In Private (7" Version)
In Private (12" Version)
In Private (Instrumental)
In Private (Shep Pettibone Remix)
In Private (Shep Pettibone Dub)
In Private (Shep Pettibone Bonus Beats)

PASSWORD: http://popgems.blogspot.com

Naomi Campbell - I Want To Live

2009-01-16T18:25:00.007Z

Better known for her modelling that her singing, "I Want To Live" is taken from Naomi Campbells 1995 album "Babywoman". First single "Love & Tears" hadn't performed as well as she would've liked, and sadly "I Want To Live" went the same way. Despite boasting some impressive remixes from such famous names as Ben Liebrand, The Beatmasters, 808 State, and Junior Vasquez.

Although "Babywoman" was generally a worldwide flop it was a success in Japan, selling over 1 million copies.

TRACKLISTING:

I Want To Live (Album Version)
I Want To Live (Ben Liebrand Radio Version)
I Want To Live (Ben Liebrand Club Mix)
I Want To Live (Beatmasters 12" Mix)
I Want To Live (808 State Nouveau Electro Mix)
I Want To Live (Junior Vasquez Sound Factory Mix)

PASSWORD: http://popgems.blogspot.com

*thanks to Raul for help with these remixes.

Tina Turner - Nutbush City Limits (The 90's Version)

2009-01-16T17:21:00.003Z

'Nutbush City Limits' was originally recorded and released in 1973, where it reached #4 in the UK charts. She re-recorded it in 1991, in a modern pop style, for inclusion on her 'Greatest Hits' album. It reached #23 in the UK singles chart. She again re-recorded the song in 1993 for the soundtrack album of 'What's Love Got To Do With It.'

TRACKLISTING:

Nutbush City Limits (The 90's Version 7" Mix)
Nutbush City Limits (The 90's Version 12" Mix)

PASSWORD: http://popgems.blogspot.com

Wet Wet Wet - Wishing I Was Lucky

2009-01-16T17:18:00.004Z

From 1987, this was the debut single from Scottish band Wet Wet Wet. The band comprises Marti Pellow (vocals), Tommy Cunningham (drums, vocals), Graeme Clark (bass, vocals) and Neil Mitchell (keyboards, vocals). A fifth, unofficial member, Graeme Duffin (lead guitar, vocals), has been with them since 1983.

"Wishing I Was Lucky" performed well, reaching #6 in the UK charts & #58 in the US charts. Follow-up single "Sweet Little Mystery" also performed well, reaching #5 in the UK charts and debut album "Popped In Souled Out" hit #1 in the UK in January 1988.

The b-side to "Wishing I Was Lucky" was album track "Words Of Wisdom".

TRACKLISTING:

Wishing I Was Lucky
Wishing I Was Lucky (Extended Version)
Words Of Wisdom

PASSWORD: http://popgems.blogspot.com

*the video here is the US version.

Five Star - If I Say Yes

2009-01-15T15:38:00.004Z

From 1986, this was the 4th single released from Five Stars "Silk & Steel" album. It was the follow-up to the groups biggest UK hit single "Rain Or Shine" (UK #2).

The video was a rather comical affair, which showed the group staying in an old castle occupied by a Dracula-esque figure. He spends the video chasing lead singer Denise, and attempting to copy the groups dance movements - failing miserably.

"If I Say Yes" was a much more straight-up dance number than their previous single, and despite the video being full of fun & laughs the track wasn't as successful as perhaps they would've liked. It peaked at #15 in the UK chart and #13 in the US R&B chart.

TRACKLISTING:

If I Say Yes (Album Version)
If I Say Yes (Extended Version)
If I Say Yes (Sheps Urban Mix)
If I Say Yes (Sheps Urban Dub)
If I Say Yes (Lew Hahn US Dub Mix)

PASSWORD: http://popgems.blogspot.com

Cilla & Dusty - Heart And Soul

2009-01-14T23:24:00.004Z

Released in 1993, sixties legends Cilla Black & Dusty Springfield recorded this duet for Cilla Blacks "Through The Years" album. The track was released as a single but wasn't a hit, peaking at #75 in the UK charts in October 1993.

TRACKLISTING:

Heart And Soul (Album Version)

PASSWORD: http://popgems.blogspot.com

Shampoo - I Know What Boys Like

2008-12-30T17:29:00.007Z

Shampoo was a 90's girlband consisting of members Jacqui Blake and Carrie Askew. They first hit the charts with their third single "Trouble" (UK #11) and had a few subsequent minor hits, including "Viva La Megababes", "Delicious", and "Girl Power".

In 1996 "I Know What Boys Like" was their last UK single release, taken from the "Girl Power" album. It was a cover of a song originally recorded by The Waitresses. Unfortunately the song wasn't a hit and peaked at #42 in the UK charts.

Despite being virtually ignored in their homeland, Shampoo were still doing well in Asia and made it into 1995's 'richest women in Britain' list. The third Shampoo album 'Absolute Shampoo' was released solely on the internet in 2000, and the duo disbanded shortly afterwards.

TRACKLISTING:

I Know What Boys Like
I Know What Boys Like (Hed Boys Seka Mix)
I Know What Boys Like (Hed Boys Party Dub Mix)
Top Of The Pops

PASSWORD: http://popgems.blogspot.com

PWL POSTS

2008-12-22T20:42:00.004Z

As some of you may or may not know, the PWL catalogue should be going digital in the new year. Previously released and (hopefully) unreleased PWL gems will be available for digital download. Full details have yet to emerge, but in support of these downloads I will be removing all the PWL owned posts on the blog. This will happen over the next few days, so if there's something you haven't downloaded then grab it now before it disappears.

More information on the digital PWL/PWE catalogue can be found at the PWE Official site:

http://www.pwl-empire.com/news.html

If you visit there you can also listen to clips of unreleased PWL tracks from:

Bananarama
Big Fun & Sonia
Samantha Fox
Hazell Dean
Sinitta
Boy Krazy
Kakko
Donna Summer
Sybil
Mandy Smith
& many others..

Also there is news on the forthcoming re-releases of the Princess, Mandy Smith, and Lonnie Gordon albums.

Keep checking the PWE site for news, and PLEASE support the legitimate downloads when they happen.

Thanks!

Gayle and Gillian - Wanna Be Your Lover

2008-12-13T14:29:00.005Z

From 1994, this was the third single from Gayle & Gillian (a.k.a. The Twins) and was a cover version of the 1980 hit by Prince. Gayle & Gillian Blakeney are probably most famous for appearing in the Australian soap opera "Neighbours" in the early 90's. Following the success of former "Neighbours" actors Kylie Minogue and Jason Donovan as recording artists, the Blakeneys went to England in 1991 to record with Stock Aitken Waterman as "The Twins". The resulting single, "All Mixed Up," became a modest club hit that year, and peaked at #77 in the UK Pop chart that year (peaking at #74 in Australia).

Second single "Mad If Ya Don't!" fared slightly better than the previous single, peaking at #75 in the UK charts. "Wanna Be Your Lover" became their biggest chart hit, peaking at #62 in the UK charts.

TRACKLISTING:

Wanna Be Your Lover (Superfly Radio Edit)
Wanna Be Your Lover (Club Edit)
Wanna Be Your Lover (Love Mix)
Wanna Be Your Lover (Underground Mix)
Wanna Be Your Lover (Superfly Club Mix)
Wanna Be Your Lover (Lots Of Love Mix)

PASSWORD: http://popgems.blogspot.com

Big Fun - Living For Your Love

2008-12-05T21:43:00.007Z

Does anyone out there have any of the further mixes of "Living For Your Love"? House Mix and Garage Mix. If so, please contact me. Thanks!

From 1989, this was the debut single from boyband Big Fun. It was produced by respected dance music producer Marshall Jefferson. For its release it was given a set of remixes, including House Mix, Garage Mix and Blow The Amp Mix.

Unfortunately the track was not a chart success and failed to reach the UK top 100. Big Fun continued their career recording with Stock Aitken Waterman and other PWL producers. "Living For Your Love" was not included on their debut album.

TRACKLISTING:

Living For Your Love (7" Radio Mix)
Living For Your Love (Extended Mix)
Living For Your Love (Instrumental)

PASSWORD: http://popgems.blogspot.com

*Thanks to RV for these tracks.

Also, here's a mix that was featured on the album "Jive Presents Acid House".

Living For Your Love (Blow The Amp Mix)

PASSWORD: http://popgems.blogspot.com

*Thanks to Tim for this mix.

Pepsi & Shirlie - Hightime

2008-12-01T21:59:00.002Z

Does anyone out there have the video for "Hightime"? Or a higher quality version of the Jellybean 12" Mix? If so, please contact me. Thanks!

From 1988, this was the final single to be taken from Pepsi & Shirlie's debut album 'All Right Now'. For its release the track was remixed by John 'Jellybean' Benitez. Sadly the pop bubble seemed to have burst for the duo and the single only managed to reach #79 in the UK charts.

TRACKLISTING:

Hightime (Jellybean 7" Mix)
Hightime (Jellybean 12" Mix)

PASSWORD: http://popgems.blogspot.com

Pepsi & Shirlie - Can't Give Me Love

2008-12-01T21:40:00.001Z

From 1987, this was the 3rd single taken from their debut album "All Right Now". Although a great pop song, it failed in the UK charts and peaked #58 in October 1987. A gem nonetheless though. The video was rarely seen at the time, but was included on a video release later that year which contained the videos to "Heartache", "Goodbye Stranger", "Can't Give Me Love" and "All Right Now".

TRACKLISTING:

Can't Give Me Love
Can't Give Me Love (Extended Version)

PASSWORD: http://popgems.blogspot.com

Boogie Box High - Jive Talkin'

2008-11-27T22:35:00.003Z

From 1987, this was a cover version of the Bee Gee's 1975 hit "Jive Talkin". The track was produced by Andreas Georgiou, who was the cousin of former WHAM! singer George Michael. At the time of the tracks release it was rumoured that the vocalist was actually George Michael. The animated video to the song gave no clue to whether the rumour was true, and the sleeve of the record also gave nothing away.

The rumour was of course true, as George Michael's vocals were instantly recognisable. The song peaked at #7 on the UK charts in August 1987. A further single "Give It All Away" was released was released in September 1987 but was not a hit, peaking at #88 in the UK charts.

TRACKLISTING:

Jive Talkin' (7" Version)
Jive Talkin' (12" Version)
Jive Talkin' (Fever Pitch Mix)

PASSWORD: http://popgems.blogspot.com

Pop Gems Club Forum

2008-11-25T18:14:00.004Z

As some of you may know, the old Pop Gems forum was removed. I don't know what happened to it. It just seemed to disappear.

I've started a new one, which you're all welcome to join.

Renamed to Pop Gems Club. It's a forum where you'll be welcome to post your OWN Pop Gems, and request any that you've been searching for. And if anything good is posted on the forum by members then it may well find itself put onto the blog too!

So, please join if you can.

VISIT HERE TO JOIN: http://popgemsclub.proboards.com

Thanks!

Vanilla - No Way No Way

2008-11-24T23:52:00.003Z

Vanilla was a 4 member girl band which released 2 singles in the late 90's. Their debut single "No Way No Way" was based on Piero Umilani's "Mah Na Mah Na". At the time they were one of the many girl groups that had popped up in the wave of the Spice Girls. The song peaked at #14 in the UK charts in December 1997.

Though ridiculed at the time, this track is still remembered more than 10 years after its release but quite often referred to as one of the worst pop records of all time. They released a further single "True To Us" and then were unceremoniousy dropped from their record label.

TRACKLISTING:

No Way No Way (Original Radio Edit)
No Way No Way (Progress Radio Edit)
No Way No Way (Progress Fromage Mix)
No Way No Way (Disco Kats Mix)
No Way No Way (Xenomania 12" Mix)

PASSWORD: http://popgems.blogspot.com