"Life in a Northern Town" - The Dream Academy

Sometimes a song will come into my head for no apparent reason and stick.  This was a welcome instance of that.  I love the energetic drums and vocals in the chorus, and how can you go wrong with a pop band that has a cello and an English horn?  Enjoy!

(Admittedly, there are a couple references that may not be "uplifting," but I think the rest of the song compensates.)

"Waiting for a Star to Fall" - Boy Meets Girl

This song became the "theme," if you will, for one or two of my early crushes.  It's a classic, 80s one-hit-wonder-type song, complete with saxophone solo and "we-weren't-sure-how-to-end-this" fade out, but I love it nonetheless.  It brings back fun memories :)

If you need even more of an 80s kick, check out the official video!

Recommendations, Weeks 9 & 10: Neil Diamond!

Ahh, the classic upbeat tunes of Neil Diamond!  Here are "Sweet Caroline," which always brings back fond memories of Boston; and "America," which is the first song I associated with Neil Diamond (from my mom's VHS of a Neil Diamond concert :).

"Don't Go Breaking My Heart" - Elton John and Kiki Dee

This is such a fun, happy-in-love song.  It always makes me think of a Disney music video to this song (from time 0:51 to 2:19).

"Twelve Thirty" - The Mamas and the Papas

This song always makes me smile - the rhythm and the piano give it such an upbeat feel.  For more about the song, check out these links: "Twelve Thirty," and "Laurel Canyon."

"La Bamba" - Ritchie Valens

I once saw a movie about Ritchie Valens (in Spanish class), that was quite interesting.  In one scene, he is recording "La Bamba," which was originally a Mexican folk song. Every time he runs through it he does it a little different - just like he's used to, but it drives the US recording studio folks nuts!

Ritchie Valens died at age 17 in the tragic plane crash, "the day the music died."

"One Good Woman" - Peter Cetera

I have to admit that Peter Cetera is one of my favorite '80s artists.  Here's a great 'happy-in-love' song from him.

"Be My Baby" - The Ronettes

When I was a baby, my dad would bounce me to this song (and others) - I love the dual meaning that gives to the song!  I think this is my favorite "oldies" song - so cheerful (as so many are) and upbeat!

"Perfect World" - Peter Cetera

Sweet, sincere lyrics with a great message!