"Only the Lonely" by LaFlavour

Song#:  0203
Date:  06/14/1980
Debut:  93
Peak:  91
Weeks:  2
Genre:  Pop, Blue-Eyed Soul



Pop Bits:  Under various names beginning in 1967, this Ohio group became a popular touring dance band throughout the mid to late-70s. Their first album, "Mandolay," received exposure via the title track, which hit the Club/Dance chart at #7. This ballad that became the second single was a blip on the pop chart for a couple of weeks. It was enough to spark interest at MCA where they recorded their follow-up album. But first, MCA changed the group's name to Fair Warning in an attempt to distance the group from their dance band name and tours. Then they recorded a song to be the lead single that was expected to break the band wide. However, another group also recorded the song and it was going to be theirs to release, which they did (a song called "She Don't Know Me" (#48, 1984) by a little new group called Bon Jovi). And then Van Halen came out with an album titled "Fair Warning." All of this spelled doom for the band and the album got shelved. The band soldiered on as LaFlavour and continued as a successful touring act for many years.

ReduxReview:  This is a fairly average take on a slight R&B/pop tune ala Earth, Wind & Fire. Their disco hit "Mandolay" was more interesting and it sounds like a totally different band. Not sure why it did not take off on the pop chart.

ReduxRating:  4/10

Trivia:  Later in their touring show days, the group incorporated a comedy puppet act. The two puppets, Frank and Nick, were operated and voiced by members of the group.

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