We're turning the time capsule way back to 1981 with Earth, Wind and Fire's "Let's Groove." I feel a bit conflicted about this one, because it was written in 1981, but it sounds as if it could have been written sometime in the mid to later '70s. No problem there -- it's all good as they say. The video for the song seems pretty standard for the day with it's kind of "space aged" feel and visual effects, but the costumes are still feeling pretty '70s to me. I'm not complaining, though. The '70s were a terrific decade -- at least from what I remember from being quite young back then.
Anyway, I am not sure how this groove could not get you to move, because it is kind of infectious in a good way -- like the groove bug or something. So stand up! You're looking good, you're out of sight. How come we don't say that anymore? Kind of reminds me of J.J. Evans from "Good Times" -- dynomite! If this tune does not get you up off your feet with a spontaneous urge to boogie down, then I am not sure anything would! And the horn section on this tune really is outta site! I'd write more, but I think I'll just let this groove get me to move :)
Finally, Friday....ah.... It's the day I have been waiting for all week! Time to celebrate, and what better way to do that than with an up tempo '80s classic? I was thinking of a particular song by Toto, and then I did some browsing on the internet, ultimately finding the song "Easy Lover" by Phil Collins and Philip Bailey. This was written in 1984, so it is perfect! I forgot how much fun this song is--and the video as well. If you watch the video, it begins with Phil and Philip (wow, I just noticed they have the same name) riding up in a helicopter. The opening synthesizer line kind of goes with the helicopter controls engaging, so it all sort of syncs up so to say. Then, the two are in the studio, rehearsing and recording the song. It looks like they are having so much fun, and I especially like the part where they are working in this "swap the mic" dance move. But, it is not as funny as the segment where it looks like Philip Bailey is showing Phil Collins some of his classic Earth, Wind, and Fire dance moves. Awesome!
I can remember this song from back in the day, and I admit that I didn't pay too much attention to the lyrics. I remember "she's an easy lover, she'll get a hold on you believe it," but that was about it. I actually remember the opening keyboard lick more than the lyrics. So, I looked at the lyrics this evening. Yeah, I kind of remember now: "She's an easy lover, she'll get a hold on you believe it, she's like no other, before you know it you'll be on your knees..." Aha! That is pretty interesting. And then it gets better: "She's an easy lover, she'll take your heart but you won't feel it, she's like no other, and I'm just trying to make you see." Ouch! She'll take your heart but you won't feel it? That is heavy. Reminds me of "Maneater" by Hall and Oates or "Evil Woman" by the Electric Light Orchestra. The difference with this tune is that it is kind of upbeat and happy--so much so that you don't realize the words are telling you this woman will rip your heart out! Ah...love...and heartbreak. Well, the woman is an easy lover, so I guess it all makes sense. Whatever the case, the song is well-written, and both of the Philip/Phils harmonize amazingly. Philip Bailey has that awesome "falsetto" type voice, and coupled with Phil Collins, it is just a terrific song. They could be singing about anything, and it would be terrific. Enjoy!
