1980s – Page 33

Boz Scaggs | Heart of Mine

Boz Scaggs, probably best known for his huge 1970s hits, often features modulations in his tunes. 1988’s “Heart of Mine” first changes key just before the first chorus (0:50), then returns to the original key as it returns to verse 2 (1:30). Then a few more shifts …

David Bowie + Pat Metheny | This is Not America

David Bowie released a 1985 collaboration with composer and guitarist Pat Metheny for the soundtrack of the movie The Falcon and the Snowman, including this standout track, “This Is Not America.” Modulation around 1:22.

Billy Ocean | Get Out of My Dreams, Get Into My Car

Billy Ocean’s “Get Outta My Dreams, Get Into My Car” (1988) went to #1 on both the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 and Hot Black Singles charts, as well as #3 on the UK Singles chart. Modulation around 3:40.

Whitney Houston | One Moment in Time

Modulation of the Day is mourning the loss of the legendary Whitney Houston. In remembrance, we give you a special weekend edition video from 1988.

Whitney Houston | I Wanna Dance With Somebody

Today we feature Whitney Houston’s up-tempo “I Wanna Dance With Somebody” (1987). The modulation is around 3:30, but do yourself the favor of listening to this whole song.

The Tubes | I Don’t Want to Wait Anymore

Here’s a vintage 1981 tune with, wait for it, a guitar-hurling preparation! The Tubes’ classic power ballad “I Don’t Want To Wait Anymore,” released on the 1981 concept album Completion Backwards Principle, modulates from C minor to Bb minor around 2:50. Enjoy.