Icon Played His Old Hit BACKWARDS As a JOKE...CREATED a WHOLE NEW HIT! | Professor of Rock

Summary

This video script delves into the remarkable story of the song 'I Think We're Alone Now,' which hit the charts in four different decades, achieving significant success each time. Originally performed by Tommy James, the song saw a resurgence in popularity when Tiffany's 1987 cover version soared to number one, exemplifying a unique pop culture phenomenon. The script features interviews with both Tommy James and Tiffany, offering insider perspectives on the song's creation, evolution, and enduring appeal. It also touches on its impact across various genres and generations, showcasing its versatility and timeless resonance in the music industry.

Takeaways

• 🎵 'I Think We're Alone Now' was a hit in four different decades, originally by Tommy James and the Shondells in 1967, then covered by Tiffany in 1987, Girls Aloud in 2006, and Billie Joe Armstrong in 2020.
• 👨‍🎤 Tommy James was surprised when two of his songs were remade and both remakes went to number one in 1987, effectively replacing himself at the top spot.
• 💃 Tiffany's cover of 'I Think We're Alone Now' in 1987 brought the song to number one again, sparking a pop war with Debbie Gibson during the late 80s.
• 📝 The song's success spanned various genres and generations, proving its timeless appeal and adaptability.
• 🎶 Tommy James learned valuable lessons on crafting songs for AM radio and the power of simplicity in music production through the original song.
• 📈 Tiffany's version of the song led to a mall tour, which was pivotal in promoting her music and engaging with a younger audience.
• 🖥 The song has been featured in various media, including movies like '10 Cloverfield Lane' and TV shows, illustrating its enduring popularity.
• 🤔 Tiffany initially doubted covering 'I Think We're Alone Now' but was convinced by her producer, which ultimately proved to be a career-defining move.
• 🎬 The song's backstory includes an accidental discovery of the chord progression for 'Mirage' by playing 'I Think We're Alone Now' backwards.
• 🎸 Both Tommy James and Tiffany have embraced the song's legacy, appreciating its impact and the new versions that continue to resonate with audiences.

Q & A

What song is discussed in the script that hit the charts in four different decades?

The song discussed is 'I Think We're Alone Now,' originally by Tommy James and the Shondells.

Who originally sang 'I Think We're Alone Now' and in what year did it first reach the top five?

Tommy James and the Shondells originally sang 'I Think We're Alone Now,' and it first reached the top five in 1967.

Which artist covered 'I Think We're Alone Now' in 1987, taking it to number one?

Tiffany covered 'I Think We're Alone Now' in 1987, taking it to number one.

Can you name another artist who replaced himself at number one in 1987 alongside Tommy James?

Billy Idol replaced himself at number one in 1987 alongside Tommy James with the song 'Mony Mony.'

What significant change did Tommy James make to 'I Think We're Alone Now' from its original version?

Tommy James sped up the song and raised the key from G to A, significantly altering its arrangement.

Who was the music arranger brought in by Tommy James for 'I Think We're Alone Now'?

Jimmy Wisner was the world-class arranger brought in by Tommy James for 'I Think We're Alone Now.'

What was the unique marketing strategy employed for Tiffany's version of the song in the 1980s?

The unique marketing strategy employed for Tiffany's version was a mall tour, which played a significant role in the song's success.

How did 'I Think We're Alone Now' perform internationally after Tiffany's cover?

After Tiffany's cover, 'I Think We're Alone Now' went number one in multiple countries including the US, Canada, Ireland, and New Zealand.

What genre did 'I Think We're Alone Now' inadvertently help invent according to Tommy James?

'I Think We're Alone Now' inadvertently helped invent the bubblegum pop genre.

How did Tommy James react to Tiffany's apology for covering 'I Think We're Alone Now'?

Tommy James told Tiffany there was no need to apologize for covering 'I Think We're Alone Now,' expressing happiness over its success.