Pages

Wednesday, October 4, 2017

"Go for It" by Kim Wilde

Song#:  2181
Date:  01/19/1985
Debut:  82
Peak:  65
Weeks:  7
Genre:  Synthpop



Pop Bits:  Wilde first gained attention via the single "Kids in America," which was from her self-titled debut LP. While the song only reached #25 in the US, it was a bigger hit in Europe reaching the Top 10 in several countries including #2 in the UK. Four more Top 20's would follow in the UK over the course of three albums, but she was basically ignored in the US. A switch to a major label, MCA, along with an image change, would hopefully boost her profile in the States. With her dad Marty and brother Ricki on board as co-writers/co-producers, Wilde recorded her fourth album Teases & Dares. This first single was issued and it did return Wilde to the Pop chart, but the results were not as she had hoped. It stalled early on the chart while only managing a #31 showing at Dance. The song didn't do well in the UK either peaking at #29. With those results, the album ultimately did not meet expectations. However, her next effort would bring her back to the top of the chart.

ReduxReview:  I'm actually not sure what drew me to this album. I know I had not heard the single yet, so that was not a factor. I have a feeling that a combo of liking "Kids in America," a positive Billboard review, the album cover, and it being in the promo bin of the local used record store prompted me to buy it. I have to say that it is one my guilty pleasures. It's full of loud, brash, over-produced, hooky sythpop that hit my ears just right. This song and the album opener "The Touch" were faves from the start. The layers and layers of synth sounds and production techniques sounded great when the volume was cranked. There were also a couple of thoughtful ballads on the disc as well. I still play this album a couple times a year. Is it a great album? Nope - not even close. But it got my attention and I totally dug it. Basically, if you like this song, you will probably enjoy the rest of the album. The only thing kinda creepy about this ode to motel sex is that it was written for Wilde by her brother and father. Yikes. Try not to think about that part...

ReduxRating:  8/10

Trivia:  The original title of this song was "The Second Time." It was released like that in Europe for the album and single. However, the US branch of MCA didn't think the title fit the song well as the main hook of the song said "go for it" and "the second time" was a secondary line in the chorus. Wanting US listeners to make sure they recognize the song via the title, it was decided that for the North American market the title would be changed to "Go for It." Unfortunately, it didn't really matter as the single never really got off the ground.

_________________________________________________________________________________

No comments:

Post a Comment