Today's playlist. This 37th installment features "MAN AT WORK" (BUSINESS AS USUAL).
I bought it at Flash Disc Ranch, my favorite record store in Shimokitazawa.
This is a record store I've been going to ever since I first moved to Setagaya. It's popular because of its amazing point card system, which is valid as long as the store is open. Once you collect 50 stamps, you can buy any number of records under 15,000 yen for half price.
Men at Work: The standard-bearers of Australian rock who took the 80s Western music scene by storm.
From a sensational debut and global success to disbandment and reunion, let's explore the allure of Men at Work, the Australian rock band, by tracing their journey.
From Melbourne to the World: From Acoustic Duo to Rock Band
In 1979, Colin Hay and Ron Strykert started out as an acoustic duo in a Melbourne pub. They were later joined by Jerry Spacer (drums), John Reece (bass), and Greg Ham (saxophone/flute), who would become the backbone of the band, and the group evolved into a five-piece.
Their debut album, "Work Songs," took the world by storm.
Released in 1981, their debut album, "Business as Usual," topped the charts not only in their native Australia but also in countries around the world, including the United States and the United Kingdom. In particular, two songs, "Who Can It Be Now?" and "Down Under," achieved the remarkable feat of reaching number one on the US singles chart.
"Knock at Midnight" is a memorable track with its upbeat reggae rhythm and catchy melody. "Down Under," on the other hand, features lyrics that self-deprecatingly refer to Australia as "down under" and a cheerful sound. These songs, along with heavy rotation on MTV, captivated young people all over the world.
Colin Hay's appeal: His laid-back vocals and sense of humor
Colin Hay, the frontman of Men at Work, is captivating because of his unique singing voice and sense of humor. His laid-back singing style creates a relaxed atmosphere, yet deeply resonates with listeners. Furthermore, his lyrics are sprinkled with humor, and even serious social issues are sung about with a light touch by them.
Grammy Award Winning and Popularity in Japan
In 1983, they won the Grammy Award for Best New Artist. In April of the same year, they made their first visit to Japan, delivering two electrifying performances at Nakano Sun Plaza and Shibuya Public Hall over two days. Their visit had a significant impact on the Japanese music scene and subsequently became the catalyst for many Australian bands to gain popularity in Japan.
Disbandment, reunion, and the present
Their second album, "Cargo," was also a hit, but after members left the band, they ceased activities in 1986. They reunited in 1996, and their performance at the closing ceremony of the 2000 Sydney Olympics moved people all over the world. However, they disbanded again in 2002.
After that, Colin Hay and Greg Ham took the lead, performing live shows irregularly, but Greg passed away in 2012. Currently, Colin continues to perform Men at Work's classic songs with his backing band.
As a leading figure in Australian rock
Men at Work shone brightly in the 80s music scene. Their music continues to be loved by many fans even today. The masterpieces they left behind will continue to move the hearts of listeners across generations and bring smiles to their faces.
WAITER-U offers not only camping gear, but also a curated selection of music, books, and movies.
I've also created a playlist on Spotify, so please feel free to listen to it in the car on your way to a camping trip.
