The Vinyl Archive
The Vinyl Archive
Between 1981 and 1986 Dave and Barbara released a series of 7" singles on their own Broken Records label, some in conjunction with Stiff Records. Here's a chronological list:
What Becomes of the Broken Hearted
In 1980 Dave Stewart (who had spent the last 12 years playing in bands) recorded an experimental version of the old Jimmy Ruffin Tamla classic, 'What Becomes Of The Broken Hearted'. Ex-Zombie Colin Blunstone agreed to appear on the track as guest vocalist. The single, backed up by the Dave Stewart original 'There Is No Reward', became a hit in the UK in 1981 on Dave's own Broken Records label distributed by Stiff Records, launching the keyboardist on a solo career. The original sleeve (depicted on left) had to be withdrawn when a company claimed copyright of the image.
Remakes of the A and B-side featuring vocals by Barbara Gaskin appear on the album
As Far As Dreams Can Go (Special Edition).
It's My Party
After the chart success of his debut single Dave invited Barbara Gaskin to sing on his arrangement of the old Lesley Gore teen lament 'It's My Party'. Released in autumn 1981 on the Broken Records label via Stiff Records, the single rocketed to number one in the UK and went on to sell well over a million worldwide. The all-synth arrangement, sonic/harmonic invention and fresh, unmistakeably English vocal style mark this track out as a 80's pop landmark and the beginning of the original and distinctive Stewart/Gaskin sound. 'B' side is the Dave Stewart song 'Waiting In the Wings'.
Both tracks appear on the album
Broken Records - The Singles (Special Edition).
Johnny Rocco
Inspired by an R & R rumble record waxed in the 50's by Marty Wilde (Kim's dad - one of the original British rock'n'rollers), 'Johnny Rocco' is backed up by 'The Hamburger Song', a cheerful D.S. rocker whose apparently nonsensical lyrics have gained resonance in the current economic climate.
Both tracks appear on the album
Broken Records - The Singles (Special Edition).
Siamese Cat Song
This colourful feline extravaganza was Dave's original choice for a follow-up to 'It's My Party'. The musicality of the arrangement and the build from spacy, chiming opening to thunderous playout (with Barbara's vocal leading the ever-changing dynamics) still catch the ear 27 years after the original release. The 'B' side is 'The Emperor's New Guitar'), a comment on what the late John Peel called 'record company bands'.
Both tracks appear on the album
Broken Records - The Singles (Special Edition).
Busy Doing Nothing
An all-time Stewart/Gaskin favourite. The deceptively childish lyrics conceal a deep Zen wisdom, and the incredibly detailed musical arrangement and Barbara's radiant vocal performance always raise a smile. When you're done smiling, have a quiet sniffle at the beautiful, spacy 'B' side, written (like all Stewart/Gaskin 'B' sides) by Dave.
Both tracks appear on the album
Broken Records - The Singles (Special Edition).
Leipzig
Originally a minimally-produced 'B' side to an early Dolby single, 'Leipzig' is given the full pop treatment with an expansive and technicoloured arrangement. The chorus remains one of the great pop anthems of the 80's, and engendered two characters (Henry & James) who subsequently took on a life of their own in another Stewart/Gaskin song.
Both tracks appear on the album
Broken Records - The Singles (Special Edition).
I'm In A Different World
Six singles along, Barbara's studio technique and confidence had blossomed, along with her ability to embue a lyric with emotional subtlety. This time the duo chose a Tamla Motown song as their starting point, and the imaginative arrangement shows the old song in a new light. The single was popular in Japan, prompting Dave & Barbara to include it in their live set in an extended arrangement which incorporated the instrumental workout 'A World Of Difference'.
Both tracks appear on the album
Broken Records - The Singles (Special Edition).
The Locomotion
Many artists have covered 'The Locomotion', but none have brought such a wealth of fresh musical ideas. This was Dave & Barbara's last vinyl single, but its musical interest and sense of fun have ensured its longevity. 'B' side is the simple, sweet ballad 'Make Me Promises', a perfect vehicle for Barbara's breathy vocals and Dave's lyrical keyboards.
Both tracks appear on the album
As Far As Dreams Can Go (Special Edition).
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