“Ariel” is the only US hit for singer and multi-instrumentalist Dean Friedman (Billboard #26, 1977). His song “Lucky Stars” made to #3 on the UK charts the following year. Although he hasn’t been scoring hits since then, Friedman has toured and recorded consistently over the years, releasing the album American Lullaby in 2021.
“Ariel” is about a romance between a guy from New York City and a girl from the other side of the Hudson, Paramus, New Jersey, who likes to sing “Tears on My Pillow” (the Little Anthony and Imperials hit) and “Ave Maria” (a hit across the ages). It’s a song designed to be a radio hit, with its erudite lyrics, infectious chorus, retro yakkety sax solo, and clean production.
A repeat of the chorus goes up a step at 3:42, landing back at the original key for the final verse at 3:57.
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