Tears For Fears are Back!

When I think back to my childhood growing up in a peaceful town of Staten Island, one of my favorite 80’s groups were Tears For Fears.

As a kid, I recognized the unique talent of Roland Orzabal and Curt Smith early on. Of course, my introduction to them was with their classic hit, “Everybody Wants To Rule The World.” Who didn’t love that song? There was so much passion and conviction in how it was sung and played.

Here we are all this time later and they’ve returned to release a new album The Tipping Point. We’re in 2022! Only you wouldn’t know it by how remarkable they sound playing the old hits from almost 40 years ago. I definitely feel nostalgic hearing Curt Smith deliver the lyrics and Roland Orzabal play the guitar and synthesize like a harmony.

If I didn’t know any better, I’d honestly think I time machined back to 1985. A year of decadence where I’m instantly reminded of Tears For Fears, Back To The Future, Bryan Adams, Max Headroom, Spuds MacKenzie, MTV, The Goonies, Michael Jackson, Prince, Madonna, Cyndi Lauper, Bruce Springsteen, Simple Minds, The Cars, The Police, Little League, bowling and Great Adventure.

While Simple Minds had the memorable hit song, “Don’t You Forget About Me,” featured in The Breakfast Club, Tears For Fears had “Everybody Wants To Rule The World,” featured at the epic conclusion of Real Genius. A very overlooked 80’s movie about students experimenting with science along with a foolish teacher. I will always love the ending and laugh at it. If you’ve seen it, you know why. If you haven’t, I highly recommend it. Plus it’s one of Val Kilmer’s first roles.

“Mad World” actually came out before “Everybody Wants To Rule The World,” and “Shout,” which remains a popular anthem for social outcasts in high school. The more I’ve listened to Tears For Fears over the years, the better I came to appreciate the introduction of their music. It had a catchy new wave pop rock sound that made them distinct. Something I noticed about that era with other bands such as The Cars, Depeche Mode, The Cure and Simple Minds. You can easily list others.

The debut album The Hurting came out in March 1983. “Mad World” is another one of those songs where you can really feel what they’re saying in the lyrics. Their delivery isn’t as depressing as Gary Jules’ cover. But it can be interpreted that way.

The dreams in which I’m dying are the best I’ve ever had

I find it hard to tell you ’cause I find it hard to take

When people run in circles, it’s a very very…

Mad World

Mad World

Mad World

Mad World

The words are very meaningful. I feel like most of us can relate. I’ve been there. Being the new kid on the block, I was picked on for no reason at all. I didn’t let it get me. You had to be tough. Eventually, I got respect. Whether it’s that or in school, that’s a part of childhood that still exists. I’m glad there’s more stigma attached to anxiety and depression. It can stem from bullying or other complicated situations. Bullying is even worse now due to social media. We need to stay on top of it. Kids are mean. Cliques exist. They’re toxic.

I also love “Pale Shelter” from that album. It has that distinct sound that makes their music stand out. I also recommend “Change,” to anyone. It’s also very good. What it comes down to is Tears For Fears are great. You can listen to other tracks back to the late 80’s including from The Seeds of Love album and appreciate it. “Woman In Chains,” is a great song that’s very different from most of their stuff.

Ironically, Curt and Roland split up following the 1990 tour of that third album. While big hits highlighted the second album Songs from the Big Chair including the catchy “Head Over Heels” and “I Believe,” their music holds up. That’s why they can return now and stay relevant. Even better, new fans can discover their music and unique sound, realizing that it’s very complete compared to some of the artificially computerized, manufactured crap that’s available. I’m not suggesting all music now is bad. It’s just changed.

“As a band, we came from the programmed pop era of the early ’80s and we had inherited a sense of structure that permeated almost all our music. The way we were working was becoming too sterile. We wanted to do something more colourful, something that sounded big and warm. You cannot get that from machines. You only get that with real musicians and real players.”-Curt Smith

It’s interesting that another popular act Duran Duran has also returned with a new album. They still sound unbelievable. They have their own distinct sound and songs that fans love. Of course, another great English act like Tears For Fears who make you think anything is possible. Even now.

Curt and his daughter Diva performed that cover of “Mad World” during the pandemic. Great stuff. It’s phenomenal. This is something we’ve seen a lot of since March 2020. Taylor Momsen being one of my favorite current lead singers with her powerful voice shining through during the release of The Pretty Reckless album Death by Rock and Roll delivering on its promise last year. Combined with her great covers of Chris Cornell, it really helped.

I would definitely say that’s the positive of social media. When you can have musicians bringing great songs to you on Instagram or other free platforms where fans can tip the artists. Those are the kind of quality people I follow. They genuinely care about mental health and what’s happening currently in Ukraine. My thoughts and prayers are with them.

The one thing I come away thinking about the self-titled album track, “The Tipping Point”, is how fresh it sounds. The harmony between Curt Smith and Roland Orzabal is still there. They have a remarkable chemistry that stands the test of time.

It’s a very good song that delivers. I like the words too. This is a bit different from their old stuff. It’s a very haunting song and you can feel it in the lyrics. The video fits. Most fans are extremely happy and excited to have them back. Their music is needed now.

Welcome back Tears For Fears. We’ve missed you! ✨💜⭐

Pat Benatar: “Shadows Of The Night”

Not every great artist has been recognized by the very politicized Rock and Roll Hall Of Fame. One such talented musician with one of the best female voices is Pat Benatar. Along with her second husband Neil Giraldo, who plays lead guitar in her band for over four decades, Benatar is a four-time Grammy Award winner with two multi-Platinum albums, five Platinum albums and 15 Billboard Top 40 singles.

After dropping out of college to marry first husband Dennis Benatar, she was a bank teller in Richmond, Virginia before quitting her job to pursue a music career. After being discovered by Catch A Rising Star comedy club owner and future manager Rick Newman after performing a cover of Judy Garland’s, “Rock-a-Bye Your Baby With a Dixie Melody”, that was her big break.

It wasn’t long before Benatar followed up writing commercial jingles for Pepsi Cola regional brands that she performed at the New York City Tramps nightclub where she headlined four consecutive nights. With several representatives from record companies on hand, she was signed by Chrysalis Records the following week in Spring 1978. A year later; Benatar released her debut album In The Heat of the Night. It reached number 12 on the US charts. However, a lot more was in store for her.

After having a little success due to second single, “Heartbreaker” reaching number 23 in the US, “We Live For Love” which was written by second husband Neil Giraldo hit number 8 in Canada making it her first Top 10 hit. It was the second album Crimes of Passion that produced big hit, “Hit Me With Your Best Shot” in 1980. It was so big that it sold over a million copies and achieved gold status. The very popular song which was featured in movies and even sports shows, earned her a first Grammy for Best Female Rock Vocal Performance.

Success continued to follow Benatar with first single “Fire and Ice” off third album Precious Time earning her a second Grammy for Best Female Rock Vocal Performance. In 1982 off her fourth album Get Nervous, one of her best songs was “Shadows of the Night.” Not only was it a great song with meaningful lyrics, but the MTV video featured future star actors Judge Reinhold and Bill Paxton in a World War II themed video. It certainly captures quite an image by painting a unique picture with Benatar playing a US pilot as well on a mission in Nazi Germany. Let’s just say having Reinhold as the fighter pilot while Paxton was the German radio operator worked.

It’s a very vivid video that catches your attention. Most of Benatar’s most successful hits featured meaningful lyrics sang by her powerful voice on important issues. That’s who she is. Someone whose voice stands out. I’ve always been a fan of her music. Between the cool bass, guitar, drumming and Benatar delivering on every note, she has a classic rock look and sound. “Love is a Battlefield” provided her with a fourth straight Grammy for Best Female Rock Vocal Performance.

She later adjusted with pop hit “We Belong.” A catchy tune that’s got a unique sound. Combined with her raspy voice, it remains a favorite of mine. Her success over a good period of time is why she remains one of the biggest rock stars not to be inducted into the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame. She was up for it last year. But fell short. Whatever the reason, Benatar and husband Neil Giraldo remain outside the biased Rock Hall that recognizes all music including rap with Jay Z the latest artist to be elected with other more traditional acts like the much deserving The Go Go’s.

There really is no rhyme or reason for how things are done. The Foo Fighters are an outstanding rock band that are going in after three successful decades led by lead vocalist Dave Grohl, who once drummed for Nirvana. Nothing against them. But why isn’t Soundgarden in with the late Chris Cornell recognized? Odd.

Whatever the case, the music is there to be enjoyed by fans. Pat Benatar holds up well as one of the best women’s voices. Her material remains timeless.

Music keeps losing great people

It just seems like we keep losing great people. Especially in music. Eddie Van Halen earlier this month. Kenny Rogers. Little Richard. Jack Sherman. Now Tony Lewis of The Outfield.

He was the lead singer of the popular 1980’s rock band. Their best hit song remains the timeless sensation, “Your Love.” A excellent track full of hard bass electric guitar and good drumming from Alan Jackman smoothly combined with Lewis’ splendid lyrics.

He passed away last week at age 62 in his home at London. No cause of death is given.

It’s interesting to think of The Outfield’s best song because I’ve heard quite a few baseball players use it as their walk up song. It is just the definition of cool.

The ironic part is I recently listened to it again on YouTube. It’s quite catchy due to lyrics such as, “You know I would do anything for you.”

https://youtu.be/4N1iwQxiHrs

The video reached number 2 on MTV’s Top 20 Video Countdown in the Spring 1986. Why not? It had the uniqueness to it and was a fan favorite. The best part is that never changed.

Some songs just stand out. No matter how much time has gone by or how much the music industry has changed for the worse, we will always have our classic throwbacks that bring us back to a more simple and laid back era.

As recently as earlier this year, here was Lewis performing “Your Love” in fine form with the rest of The Outfield minus passed on guitarist John Spinks (1953-2014). He still could hit the high notes prior to the Covid-19 pandemic. This live footage below might be the last of Lewis performing with the band. He went out in style.

It’s strange how we keep reminiscing about great musicians who have recently passed. Eddie Money has already been gone over a year. Dolores O’Riordan, who lost her battle to cancer at just 46, has been gone over two years. I loved her as the lead singer of the 90’s band The Cranberries.

Marie Fredriksson lost a 17-year cancer battle last December. She was excellent fronting Roxette.

Somehow, we keep losing great talent who provided us with so much energy and entertainment in music. I was torn apart by Eddie Van Halen’s death at 65 to cancer three weeks ago. I guess because it took me back to childhood and my later years listening to how great they were.

A couple of days removed from a huge gathering of famous musicians paying tribute to Jerry Lee Lewis for his 85th birthday celebration, it’s unreal that The Killer is still ticking. Who ever would’ve thought given what he’s been through health wise. God bless.

The great thing about music is it never dies. We might lose some of our favorites. But the great songs they made last forever.

RIP Tony Lewis (Dec. 21, 1967 – Oct. 19, 2020)

“Do You Remember?”

“Do You Remember?”

by Derek Felix

Do you remember

When things were different

A time of excitement

In an age of innocence

Long ago lost

That kept us laughing and smiling

So young at heart

I’d like to go back

And time machine

To the year 1985

When childhood dreams

Playing in parks were alive

Along with loud screams

The days where we went out

And didn’t come home till dinner

Things were more about

Cool games and creativity

All outdoors with cheers to shout

Little league and hoops ruled the day

Manhunt and climbing

Never faded away

You just wanted to stay forever

In your own world

With friends hanging out together

That was our fancy pearl

Rocking out to memorable music

Enjoying movies for fun

Playing arcades and video games that were fantastic

Along with a boombox that had the best sound

It provided electricity like cool videos on MTV

You never were lost, but always found

Remembering a night out in the city

That was a special time

Little did we know how much it would change

Do you remember the rhythm and the rhyme

I sure do and the wonderful stage

Our Broadway was full of light

So was home in a unique setting

That gave us the spotlight

Don’t ever forget how lucky we are

We lived all of it

Forever captivated by a shining star

Video of Day: Cyndi Lauper “Time After Time” (Live)

There’s something to be said for live music. Especially when it dates back to the classic era of the 80’s. Growing up, there were so many memorable artists who were unique in their own way.

Cyndi Lauper remains one of my favorites from that time. Of course back then, it was due to her comedic videos featuring WWE wrestlers like Rowdy Piper, Nikolai Volkov, Iron Sheik, Freddie Blassie, Captain Lou Albano, etc. Who didn’t love “Girls Just Want To Have Fun?” Especially the crazy ending with the party that overcrowds her room with everyone falling on poor Captain Lou. 😉

Cyndi had a great style and amazing voice. That still remains a few decades later here in 2020. So, while we are limited in what we can do, you can always kick back and enjoy a throwback video that reminds you of all that was right. You also had the featured video from The Goonies. “The Goonies ‘R’ Good Enough”, was as epic as the movie. Gotta go find that buried treasure with One Eyed Willie. Goonies Never Say Die! What memories. You can tell what era I grew up in. 😀

When Lauper wasn’t managing or even taking part in WrestleMania during the era of MTV when they played videos nonstop and had awesome veejays, she was producing songs like, “Time After Time.” A huge hit that remains forever timeless. There are others such as, “True Colors” and “All Through Through The Night.”

One of the things I admire most about her is how well she performs the songs. Look at the effort she puts in while guesting on the legendary Late Night Show with host Johnny Carson in 1984. Every word is sang with such energy and passion. You can feel the emotion in her powerful voice. That’s why I love her. Authentic.

Plus there’s Cyndi in her classic style with a unbelievable dress and cool rock and roll orange/red hair. She is great. If only we had more artists like Lauper around and hosts like Carson. No one holds a candle to the King of Late Night. I’d put David Letterman second. Then Jay Leno.

Maybe I’m reminiscing of a carefree time when we didn’t do what they told us to. We did what we wanted. We need to get back to that soon. I miss it.

Blurry

Everything so blurry

Everyone so fake

Everybody’s empty

Everything is so messed up

Preoccupied without you

I cannot live at all

My whole world surrounds you

I stumble and I fall

Many of us know the lyrics to Puddle of Mudd’s hit song, “Blurry.” It’s definitely one of my favorites from their memorable breakout album Come Clean in 2001. I remember when “Control”, debuted on MTV back when actual music still was relevant. It was a cool video.

I definitely was hooked. I just thought they had that it factor. I have that album and it still works. Not one bad song on it. That includes “Drift and Die”, “She Hates Me”, along with underrated tracks “Nobody Told Me”, and “Bring Me Down.”

They have other good stuff including one of my favorites, “Spin Me Around”, off Life On Display in 2003. “Away From Me”, was the big hit off that album. However, “Spin You Around”, remains a good tune with a excellent video. Wes Scantlin sings about his childhood friend who used to hangout before she moved away. He finds her at the end of the video dancing and they reconnect.

Why do I like Blurry? Well, it sure applies to things in life. Whether it is not seeing a son like Wes in the true version of the song, or missing a girl you like, it is something we all can relate to. Everyone so fake. God is that true. Everyone is empty. Many of us feel like it right now. Everything is so messed up. Ain’t that the truth.

I wish they had more stuff. Part of it is due to Scantlin’s personal demons. He’s been in and out of trouble with the law for over a decade. Alcoholism, drug addiction and domestic violence are serious issues that can have serious setbacks. At some point, you either learn from past mistakes or pay the consequences.

He’ll turn 48 in a couple of days. I’d like to think he’ll be able to still put out good music. That’s not too old. We’ll see.

For now anyway, I’ll listen to the good stuff from the past.

Hard Hits Podcast: Music, The Crow’s influence on Sting, Hot MTV VJ Past, NHL and NFL Draft

In my latest episode of the new Hard Hits Podcast which can be heard on Anchor, I discussed a number of topics last night.

Included in the hour were more music featuring Bullet For My Valentine, Metallica, Red Hot Chili Peppers. I also got into my love of The Crow. A great 90’s movie character played by the late Brandon Lee, who gave a memorable performance as Eric Draven. It’s one of those movies that brings out every emotion as he avenges Shelly’s death along with his.

The Crow was such a good movie that it’s one of my personal favorites. From the unique symmetry between our tragic hero and Sarah, expertly played by then teenager Rochelle Davis. Ernie Hudson lent support as a character actor who played the good cop Sergeant Albrecht. Even our bad guy Top Dollar, who’s perfectly portrayed by Michael Wincott, is masterful.

Lee died tragically on set due to a fragment that was accidentally lodged in the chamber of a prop gun on March 31, 1993 while shooting one of the last few scenes. He was only 28. The son of legendary martial arts master Bruce Lee, who also died young at 32 due to cerebral edema, Brandon had the makings of a star. His mannerisms and lines in the action packed thriller left you wanting more. It’s sad that we didn’t get to see more of him.

Taking a cue from Lee’s Crow character, WCW transformed star wrestler Sting from surfer dude blonde to the very dark and mysterious Crow Sting that lurked from the rafters with face paint and makeup. It was the best part of Monday Nitro during the Monday night wars between World Championship Wrestling and the World Wrestling Federation, which later became WWE. It was actually the suggestion of Scott Hall for Sting to become the Crow character. One that invoked memories of Lee and excited wrestling fans.

In the second half of the show, I spent some time reflecting back on some of the hot MTV veejays from the 90’s when it really was all about the music. Referenced are Downtown Julie Brown, Ananda Lewis, Idalis DeLeon and the wicked Daisy Fuentes. It’s a trip down memory lane.

Sports were also covered. I discussed the disappointment for high school senior student athletes who won’t be able to conclude their Spring seasons due to the COVID-19 pandemic. That includes future Georgetown track and field star and local Staten Island star runner Sierra Dinneen of Notre Dame Academy. Many high school seniors don’t know if they’ll ever have a traditional cap and gown or prom. A sobering thought.

As the NBA and NHL remain paused due to the outbreak and health risks, commissioners Adam Silver and Gary Bettman have tough decisions ahead on whether to continue their league’s respective seasons with playoffs. I take a shot at a suggestion to complete each season with an idea for next year. One that’s not being discussed when it should due to logic.

I also delved into the upcoming NFL Draft that will be like the old days when it wasn’t a marquee event. But rather just executives getting together and announcing their picks in a hotel like The Marriott. This year will be done from home remotely due to the Coronavirus. All on phone. What will the Giants and Jets do? Will Tua continue to fall or is that just talk while Justin Herbert is hyped?

Plus a look back at the infamous 1983 NFL Draft that saw six quarterbacks selected in the first round. That featured future Hall of Famers John Elway, Jim Kelly and Dan Marino, who dropped to 27th overall to the Dolphins. The last QB taken while Tony Eason, Todd Blackledge and Ken O’Brien went prior with Gang Green mistakenly grabbing O’Brien at number 24 three spots before Miami picked. While he was a good QB, he was no Marino.

That draft highlighted eight Hall of Famers including Eric Dickerson and late Bears steal Richard Dent, who lasted eight rounds. Chicago built their 1985 Super Bowl team through that draft.

For more on everything, please take a listen to my podcast below:

Hard Hits Podcast: Music, The Crow, Sting, MTV veejays, NHL, NFL Draft

Why I Heart The Cars

You know. I’ve been here before. I’ve harped on why I believe The Cars are deserving of inclusion into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Of course, they’re not going to be inducted for a second straight year. This year’s class is highlighted by Pearl Jam, Tupac and Yes. Electric Light Orchestra, Joan Baez and cool 80’s band Journey are also included.

So, how come The Cars aren’t in? Were they not influential enough? Are you kidding?!?!?!?!?! Their combination of alt pop rock and new wave was something never heard or seen before. They certainly produced enough hits during a decade long run. The highlights include the timeless “Drive,” the fun and poppy “Just What I Needed,” and the ultra cool and hilarious “You Might Think.”

None of their songs are bad. How about the classic “Moving In Stereo” which was featured in Fast Times at Ridgemont High in a epic scene where Judge Reinhold’s character Brad Hamilton fantasizes about his sister’s hot friend Linda Barrett played by sex symbol Phoebe Cates at the pool. A scene no heterosexual male will ever forget.

The way the song is played with that base just gives it the right touch. It was perfect for that movie and Hamilton’s pornographic scene where Cates’ Linda catches him in the dirty act by opening the bathroom.

You could listen to any song by The Cars or watch one of their unpredictable and downright laughable videos and get sucked in. It’s not just the music either. It could be the uncanny yet talented Ric Ocasek with a few of the videos featuring mesmerizing model wife Pavlina Porizkova. It could be the wacky stuff they did when MTV was hot in the 80’s. They had fun.

But make no mistake about it. Ocasek and gone too soon Benjamin Orr, who took turns on vocals depending on the song, were a terrific combo along with lead guitarist Elliot Easton, drummer David Robinson and keyboardist Greg Hawkes. The thing I like most is they all could play instruments. Orr doubled on bass and Ocasek played rhythm guitar. How many bands boast two talented vocalists? They were perfect choices for each song. Orr’s pipes are amazing on Drive. The band’s biggest hit. But Ocasek is so good on You Might Think. Not to mention him being a bee in the bathroom of his future wife during the memorable video.

Orr has been gone for 12 years losing a battle to pancreatic cancer. What if he were still around? Would he have been part of the reunion they had? One can only wonder. I say yes. But that’s with my heart. They went onto successful solo careers.

As long as they’re on the ballot, I’ll continue to vote for them until they get in. In the meantime, here are some videos as a daily reminder of how great their music was.

 

 

Cool Video: The Cars “You Are The Girl”

How many people have heard of The Cars? If you haven’t, you’re missing out. Quite honestly, their unique style and sound was unlike anything I ever heard before growing up.

I look at what Ric Ocasek, the gone too soon but never forgotten Benjamin Orr, Elliot Easton, David Robinson and Greg Hawkes accomplished and think it’s some of the best music of the late 70’s and 80’s ever produced. What I really love about them is their music was different than anyone else. It had a poppy combination of new wave and rock intertwined. They also had both Ocasek and Orr splitting time as lead singers. What other group would do that?

The thing that sticks out for me is when Ocasek decided to let Orr sing their most popular hit, “Drive,” it showed just how smart and uncanny he was. He knew he wasn’t always the best to be the lead vocalist. I guess it depended on the song and what delivery and sound they were going for. They both were great.

When you listen to any Cars song, they all go together. They have a unique style which is distinct kind of like Tears For Fears, The Cure or Depeche Mode. Three other 80’s acts I loved. Somewhat appropriately, none of them are in the Rock ‘N Roll Hall of Fame. Or as my Dad refers to it:

“The Rock ‘N Roll Hall of Shame.”

They recently announced the Class of 2017. Yes finally made it and Tupac Shakur did as expected. So did Journey, who even though I like their stuff, I don’t think they’re better than any of the aforementioned 80’s bands who had more staying power. Particularly The Cure and Depeche Mode. Electric Light Orchestra also got in as did Joan Baez. Big 90’s act Pearl Jam is the big headliner. They are great and their music still stands like other big 90’s bands who went in before them. Though I can’t stand Eddie Vedder even though his Cubs Take Me Out To The Ballgame was pretty kick ass during the World Series.

The idea that The Cars aren’t in is ridiculous. They had more talent than anyone. How many hit songs did they produce? “Just What I Needed” is great. Their videos were to die for too with a cartoon feel featuring Ocasek’s model wife Pavlina Porizkova. She was featured in so many videos. Wow. She was a stunner.

“You Might Think” won Video of the Year in 1984. In it, Ocasek plays a bumble bee that invades Porizkova throughout. It’s one of those classics that’ll make you smile and laugh. That’s one of the great qualities The Cars had. They didn’t take themselves too seriously. Their music was amazing and the videos were perfect for Music Television which became a phenomenon when it debuted. Too bad MTV hardly shows any videos and only cares about its silly awards show that really sold out. I can’t even remember the last time it was relevant. Yet I still get sucked into watching. I don’t know why. My brother won’t ever give it the time of day.

Our video feature was their last hurrah. It’s a single released in 1987 called “You Are The Girl.” I can recall listening to it on my Walkman. Remember those things? Yeah. They were pretty cool too before I-Pods and I-Phones. Back in the days when cassettes were huge and vinyl was still a thing. If I did come into any money, aside from getting my own place, I would invest in a record player and buy vinyl. Records don’t get enough play.

“You Are The Girl” is another one of those random whacked out Cars videos that leaves you thinking, “What the hell am I watching.” But halfway through it, you can’t help but laugh at the creativity. They’re in outer space and dressed as astronauts who meet girls from another planet. There’s a part that’s basically sexual but it’s so hilarious that you can’t take it seriously. It just creates laughter.

The song is rather catchy. When it comes down to it, this is who they are. The Cars music always had that cool sound. I would hear this song in middle school thinking of my sixth grade crush in science out of all things. Kinda poetic considering the video and time.

But seriously. Listen to almost anything Cars from their first two albums and you’ll agree they belong in the Hall. Particularly Candy-O which doesn’t get as much air play. There’s not a bad song on it. I can’t think of too many Cars tracks I disliked. It all has to do with the way they played and delivered each song. One day, they’ll get in. It won’t be soon enough to suit me.

The Blue Jays are AL East Champs

Blue Jays AL East Champs: For the first time since 1993 when they won it all, the Blue Jays are AL East champs. Here’s a closer look at their special season and what life was like in ’93.
AP Photo by Patrick Semansky/Getty Images

It took the Blue Jays 22 years to once again become AL East champs. For the first time since ’93 when I was a junior in high school watching Joe Carter take Mitch Williams deep for a Game 6 walk off that sent Toronto to a second consecutive World Title, the Blue Jays are the best team in the AL East.

They did it by doing what they do best. Destroying the Orioles 15-2 to spray the champagne in the road locker room at Camden Yards. The Jays scored in five of nine innings slugging three home runs. Edwin Encarnacion and Jose Bautista each hit two-run shots and Justin Smoak also went deep. All nine Jays starters each had a hit. Eight drove in runs. AL MVP front runner Josh Donaldson went 2-for-4 with his major league best 123rd RBI. He’s hit 41 dingers which puts him one up on Bautista. Encarnacion has 37 giving Toronto three sluggers with over 35 with 100-plus knocked in. A scary thought for the opposition this postseason.

Marcus Stroman won again improving to 4-0 by working eight strong allowing one earned on a Steve Pearce solo shot. Stroman fanned eight. He should slot in behind ace David Price for the Jays playoff rotation. Figure R.A. Dickey to be third leaving manager John Gibbons to choose between Marco Estrada and Mark Buehrle. Considerig that Estrada has pitched better, he might be the choice despite Buehrle’s experience.

The Jays improved to 92-65 with the win. Even though they dropped the second game of a double header, it didn’t matter. They rallied back from a .500 team that once trailed the first place Yankees by seven games. Once they added Troy Tulowitzki and Price, everything fell into place for Toronto. For two months, they have dominated and now could be the favorite to come out of the AL with the Royals losing Greg Holland for the year. He’ll also likely miss next season due to Tommy John surgery.

The Blue Jays with a powerful lineup that also features Russell Martin and speedster Ben Revere now have the pitching to go with the hitting. Price has been lethal since joining them going 9-1 in 11 starts with a 2.30 earned run average along with a dominant 87 K’s in 74 and a third innings. He is front and center for the AL Cy Young with Astros ace Dallas Keuchel. The difference between them is minimal with Keuchel having one more win (19) while Price has a lower ERA by a measly 0.02 (2.45).

Rookie Antonio Osuna has become a reliable closer saving 20 games. If there is a potential weak spot, the bullpen isn’t lock down with vet LaTroy Hawkins and youngster Aaron Sanchez plus lefty Brett Cecil setting up. If the Jays aren’t able to outslug teams in October when the games are usually closer, the pen could come into play.

Either way, a tip of the cap to the Jays for finally giving Canada something else to cheer about aside from hockey. Ironically, the last time Canada had a Stanley Cup champion was also ’93 when the Canadiens won it all behind an all world goalie by the name of Patrick Roy. If the Jays win it all, does that bode well for the Cup returning to Canada?

The last time the Blue Jays won, Bill Clinton was in his first term as President. MTV actually was still en vogue with actual music videos and Yo! MTV Raps and Rock The Vote with Clinton going on MTV as part of his ’92 campaign to defeat George Bush. MTV still had cool veejays like Adam Curry, Daisy Fuentes and Idalis along with lifer Kurt Loder. Cindy Crawford was at her peak in House of Style. Life was good.

Yeah. It was a different era. There was no social media. No Facebook or Twitter. No TMZ to destroy celebrities and athletes. No steroid scandals. And the only internet was dial up. Prodigy was my first service before AOL. Sega Genesis and Super Nintendo dominated. Guns N’ Roses still was intact. 2Pac and Biggie were alive. Dr. Dre and Snoop Dogg teamed up for The Chronic with gangsta rap taking over.