Tag: 1987

April 10, 2025

Whitney Houston – So Emotional (US 12″) (1987)

Burning The Ground Exclusive

“I get so emotional, baby… Every time I think of you…”

Released in October 1987, “So Emotional” was the third single from Whitney Houston’s mega-selling second album, Whitney. The song showcases a grittier, more rock-infused side of Whitney’s voice—complete with big drums, searing guitar, and of course, that unmatched vocal power.

Written by Billy Steinberg and Tom Kelly—the same duo behind hits like Madonna’s “Like a Virgin” and Cyndi Lauper’s “True Colors”—“So Emotional” brought a harder edge to Whitney’s pristine pop image. With its fusion of pop-rock, dance, and soul, the song showed she could do much more than just ballads.

The single was a massive success, becoming Whitney’s sixth consecutive #1 on the Billboard Hot 100, tying her with The Beatles and The Bee Gees for the longest streak of chart-topping singles at the time. It also topped the Dance Club Songs chart and cracked the Top 10 internationally, including the UK, Canada, and Australia.

The music video for “So Emotional,” directed by Wayne Isham, captures Whitney on the road and backstage as she preps for a high-energy concert. Shot at Lehigh University’s Stabler Arena in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, the video was filmed between dates of her 1987–1988 Moment of Truth Tour. It’s a candid, electrifying snapshot of Whitney in her prime—playful, stylish, and commanding the stage with ease.

For the clubs, Shep Pettibone crafted a total of five mixes for the 12″ release, each tailored for different dancefloor moments. The Extended Remix brings the drama with punchy synths and an amped-up groove. The Dub Mix strips things back to spotlight the rhythm section, while the Bonus Beats offers DJs pure percussive fuel. The Edited Remix trims things down for more commercial play.

And then there’s “The Voice”—a jaw-dropping acapella version that isolates Whitney’s soaring vocals over minimal backing. It’s a masterclass in vocal control, phrasing, and emotion. If you ever doubted her range or power, this version will silence you.

From the glam-rock guitars to the iconic belting chorus, “So Emotional” is pure ’80s fire—a perfect blend of vulnerability and power. Whether you were sweating it out on the dance floor in 1987 or just discovering it today, this track remains one of Whitney’s most thrilling and energetic performances.

Stay tuned—this one’s worth cranking up loud.

SIDE A:
So Emotional (Extended Remix) 7:53
Edited By – Junior Vasquez, Shep Pettibone
Engineer [Remix Engineer] – Steve Peck
Producer [Additional Production By], Remix [Remix By] – Shep Pettibone
Programmed By [Additional Programming By] – Fred McFarlane

So Emotional (Edited Remix) 4:27
Edited By – Junior Vasquez, Shep Pettibone
Engineer [Remix Engineer] – Steve Peck
Producer [Additional Production By], Remix [Remix By] – Shep Pettibone
Programmed By [Additional Programming By] – Fred McFarlane

SIDE B:
So Emotional (Single Version) 4:02

So Emotional (Dub Version) 5:15
Edited By – Junior Vasquez, Shep Pettibone
Engineer [Remix Engineer] – Steve Peck
Producer [Additional Production By], Remix [Remix By] – Shep Pettibone
Programmed By [Additional Programming By] – Fred McFarlane

So Emotional (Bonus Beats) 4:28
Edited By – Junior Vasquez, Shep Pettibone
Engineer [Remix Engineer] – Steve Peck
Producer [Additional Production By], Remix [Remix By] – Shep Pettibone
Programmed By [Additional Programming By] – Fred McFarlane

So Emotional (The Voice) 4:18
Edited By – Junior Vasquez, Shep Pettibone
Engineer [Remix Engineer] – Steve Peck
Producer [Additional Production By], Remix [Remix By] – Shep Pettibone
Programmed By [Additional Programming By] – Fred McFarlane

VINYL GRADE:
Vinyl: Near Mint
Sleeve: Near Mint

U.S. CHART HISTORY:

Year	Single	Chart	Position
1987	So Emotional-	U.S. Billboard Hot 100	#1
1987	So Emotional-	U.S. Billboard Hot R&B / Hip-Hop Songs	#5
1987	So Emotional-	U.S. Billboard Hot Adult Contemporary	#8
1987	So Emotional-	U.S. Billboard Hot Dance Music / Club Play	#1

RELEASE INFORMATION:
Label: Arista – AD1-9641
Format: Vinyl, 12″, 33 ⅓ RPM, Single, Stereo
Country: US
Released: 1987
Genre: Electronic, Pop
Style: Synth-pop

CREDITS:

A&R [A & R Coordination By] – Richard Sweret
Arranged By [Vocal Arrangements By] – Whitney Houston
Design – Dave Brubaker*
Executive-Producer – Clive Davis
Photography By [Photo] – Patrick Demarchelier
Producer [Original Production By] – Narada Michael Walden
Written-By – Billy Steinberg & Tom Kelly*

NOTES:
Printed in U.S.A.

From the LP “WHITNEY”

Includes a special full-color souvenir poster.

Buy the 12″ at DISCOGS

VINYL TRANSFER & AUDIO RESTORATION:
-DjPaulT
burningtheground.net

THE GEAR:
Turntable: Technics SL-1200MK7
Cartridge/Stylus: Ortofon 2M Black PnP MkII
Turntable Isolation Platform: ISO-Tone™ Turntable Isolation Platform
Platter: Pro Spin Acrylic Mat
Stabilizer: Pro-Ject Record Puck
Phono Pre-amp: Pro-Jec Tube Box DS2
Tubes: Genalex Gold Lion 12AX7 ECC83/B759 Gold Pins Vacuum Tube – Matched Pair
DAC: Alpha Design Labs GT40a USB DAC
Record Cleaning: VPI HW 16.5 Record Cleaning Machine
Artwork Scans: Epson Workforce WF-7610 Professional Printer/Scanner

SOFTWARE:
Recording/Editing: Adobe Audition 25 (Recording)
Down Sampling/Dither: iZotope RX Advanced 2
Artwork Editor: Adobe Photoshop CS5
Click Removal: Manual
FLAC/MP3 Conversion: dBpoweramp
M3U Playlist: Playlist Creator

RESTORATION NOTES:
All vinyl rips are recorded @ 32bit/float
FLAC (Level Eight)
Artwork scanned at 600dpi

**24bit FLAC Only Available For Seven Days!

Password: burningtheground

You can help show your support for this blog by donating using PayPal. I appreciate your help.

April 4, 2025

Charlie Sexton – In Deep (US 12″) (1987)

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NEW 2025 Transfer!
NEW Meticulous Audio Restoration!

Originally posted December 29, 2011

A Lost Gem from a Guitar Virtuoso

Charlie Sexton is a name that resonates with fans of rock, blues, and new wave, known for his exceptional guitar work and smooth vocals. While many may immediately think of his breakout 1985 hit “Beat’s So Lonely,” his lesser-known track “In Deep” showcases a different side of his artistry.

“In Deep” was featured on the Beverly Hills Cop II soundtrack (1987), a collection of songs that complemented the high-energy action film. Produced by Keith Forsey, the track captures the sleek, polished sound of the era, blending Sexton’s blues-rock sensibilities with a cinematic edge. The song also benefited from remixes by the legendary Shep Pettibone, adding a dance-friendly appeal to its atmospheric production. However, no music video was shot for the single, and the remixes remain exclusive to vinyl releases.

The track stands out for its emotive vocal delivery, haunting guitar work, and infectious melody. While it may not have been a chart-topping hit, it remains a hidden gem in Sexton’s discography, demonstrating his versatility as a musician and performer.

Though Charlie Sexton would later become known for his work with Bob Dylan as a longtime guitarist in Dylan’s touring band, songs like “In Deep” highlight his depth as a solo artist. This track is worth revisiting for fans of late-’80s rock and those who appreciate skilled musicianship with heartfelt songwriting.

SIDE A:
In Deep (Extended Version) 5:48

SIDE B:
In Deep (Single Version) 4:18
In Deep (Dub Version) 4:25

VINYL GRADE:
Vinyl: Near Mint
Sleeve: Near Mint

RELEASE INFORMATION:
Label: MCA Records – MCA-23786
Format: Vinyl, 12″, 33 ⅓ RPM
Country: US
Released: 1987
Genre: Electronic, Rock
Style: Pop Rock, Synth-pop

CREDITS:

Arranged By – Scott Wilk
Producer – Keith Forsey
Remix – Shep Pettibone
Written-By – Charlie Sexton, Scott Wilk

NOTES:
Original version appears on the “Beverly Hills Cop II” Motion Picture Soundtrack album MCA-6207

Buy the 12″ at DISCOGS

VINYL TRANSFER & AUDIO RESTORATION:
-DjPaulT
burningtheground.net

RESTORATION NOTES:
All vinyl rips are recorded @ 32bit/float
FLAC (Level Eight)
Artwork scanned at 600dpi

**24bit FLAC Only Available For Seven Days!

Password: burningtheground

You can help show your support for this blog by donating using PayPal. I appreciate your help.

April 1, 2025

Belinda Carlisle – Heaven Is A Place On Earth (US 12″) (1987)

Burning The Ground Exclusive

Heaven Is a Place on Earth – Belinda Carlisle’s Timeless Anthem

Released in 1987, “Heaven Is a Place on Earth” remains one of the defining songs of the decade. Performed by Belinda Carlisle, former lead singer of The Go-Go’s, the track catapulted her into solo superstardom and became an instant classic of the late ’80s pop-rock sound.

A Chart-Topping Smash

Written by hitmakers Rick Nowels and Ellen Shipley, “Heaven Is a Place on Earth” was the lead single from Carlisle’s second solo album, Heaven on Earth. The song quickly became a global phenomenon, reaching No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 in the U.S. and topping charts in several other countries, including the UK and Canada. It was Carlisle’s first (and only) U.S. No. 1 hit, solidifying her place in pop history.

The Sound of the Late ’80s

The song’s lush production, soaring melodies, and anthemic chorus perfectly encapsulate the era’s signature sound. Produced by Nowels, the track features a driving beat, shimmering synths, and a powerful vocal performance from Carlisle. Many of the era’s biggest names contributed to the track—background vocals were provided by Michelle Phillips of The Mamas & The Papas, Chynna Phillips of Wilson Phillips, songwriter Diane Warren, as well as songwriters Nowels and Shipley. The song also features Thomas Dolby on synthesizers.

An Iconic Music Video

Adding to the song’s legendary status is its striking music video, directed by actress-turned-filmmaker Diane Keaton. Featuring dreamlike imagery, shadowy dancers, and celestial themes, the video perfectly complements the song’s uplifting lyrics about love and paradise. Carlisle, dressed in black against a darkened, glowing background, delivers a mesmerizing performance, making the video one of the most recognizable of the decade.

Cultural Impact & Legacy

Beyond its chart success, Heaven Is a Place on Earth has endured as a staple of ’80s nostalgia. The song has been featured in countless movies, TV shows, and commercials, from Black Mirror to Romy and Michele’s High School Reunion. It’s also a favorite in karaoke bars and ‘80s dance nights worldwide. The song’s message—finding heaven in love and human connection—remains just as powerful today as it was in 1987.

The Twelve-Inch Remix

For fans of extended mixes, the song’s 12″ version is a must-listen. The official remix, crafted by Shep Pettibone, extends the song’s euphoric energy with an extended intro and an even more driving beat, making it a dancefloor favorite. It’s another perfect example of how the ’80s took pop hits and transformed them into club anthems.

A Song That Never Fades

More than three decades later, Heaven Is a Place on Earth continues to shine as one of the most beloved pop songs of its time. Whether you first heard it on the radio in 1987 or discovered it through a retro playlist, its magic remains undeniable.

SIDE A:
Heaven Is A Place On Earth (The Heavenly Version) 5:59

SIDE B:
Heaven Is A Place On Earth (Down To Earth Dub) 5:27
Heaven Is A Place On Earth (The Voice) 3:53

VINYL GRADE:
Vinyl: Near Mint
Sleeve: Near Mint

U.S. CHART HISTORY:

Year	Single	Chart	Position
1987	Heaven Is A Place On Earth	U.S. Billboard Hot 100	#1
1987	Heaven Is A Place On Earth	U.S. Billboard Adult Contemporary	#7

RELEASE INFORMATION:
Label: MCA Records – MCA-23808, MCA Records – MCA 23808
Format: Vinyl, 12″, 33 ⅓ RPM
Country: US
Released: 1987
Genre: Electronic, Rock, Pop
Style: Synth-pop

CREDITS:

Edited By – Tuta Aquino
Edited By, Producer [Additional], Remix – Shep Pettibone
Engineer [Remix] – Steve Peck
Lacquer Cut By – TJ*
Producer, Written-By – Rick Nowels
Written-By – Ellen Shipley

NOTES:
From the MCA LP “HEAVEN ON EARTH”

Buy the 12″ at DISCOGS

VINYL TRANSFER & AUDIO RESTORATION:
-DjPaulT
burningtheground.net

RESTORATION NOTES:
All vinyl rips are recorded @ 32bit/float
FLAC (Level Eight)
Artwork scanned at 600dpi

**24bit FLAC Only Available For Seven Days!

Password: burningtheground

You can help show your support for this blog by donating using PayPal. I appreciate your help.

March 14, 2025

Nick John – All I Want Is You (US 12″) (1987)

Burning The Ground Exclusive

Hi-NRG DISCO FRIDAY

Nick John, born Nickolas Johnathan Kovaleski, emerged as a notable figure in the mid-1980s Hi-NRG music scene. His striking blonde appearance and multifaceted talents as a singer, songwriter, and producer quickly garnered attention, making him a prominent poster boy for the genre during that era.

In 1986, at the age of 22, Nick John released his debut single, “Planet Nine,” under the renowned Megatone Records label. This track showcased his ability to blend energetic rhythms with catchy melodies, characteristic of the Hi-NRG style.

Following the success of his debut, he continued to make waves with subsequent releases, including “All I Want Is You” in 1987. This 12″ single further cemented his status in the dance music community, offering club-goers an infectious beat and memorable hooks.

Despite his early promise and contributions to the Hi-NRG genre, detailed information about Nick John’s career progression and life after his initial musical endeavors remains scarce. His work, however, continues to be celebrated by enthusiasts of 1980s dance music, ensuring his legacy within the genre endures.

SIDE A:
All I Want Is You (Club Mix) 7:39

SIDE B:
All I Want Is You (Razormaid Mix) 7:07
Engineer – Joseph Watt
Remix – Joseph Watt

All I Want Is You (Rhythm Radio Mix) 4:04

VINYL GRADE:
Vinyl: Near Mint
Sleeve: Near Mint

RELEASE INFORMATION:
Label: Megatone Records – MT-151
Format: Vinyl, 12″, 45 RPM
Country: US
Released: 1987
Genre: Electronic
Style: Disco, Hi NRG

CREDITS:

Drum Machine – Nick John
Engineer – Devon Bernardoni, Ken Kessie
Executive-Producer – Marty Blecman
Keyboards – Nick John
Mixed By – Ken Kessie, Marty Blecman
Performer – Nick John
Photography – Mark Guerra
Producer – Nick John
Project Manager – Karen Beason
Written-By – Nick John

NOTES:
A1, B2 Mixed at Starlight Studio, Richmond, CA
Razormaid Mixed at: Alpha Omega Studio San Francisco, CA
Photography Mark Guerra Austin, Texas
Booking agent Jeff Lepie, 213-392, 1467

Buy the 12″ at DISCOGS

VINYL TRANSFER & AUDIO RESTORATION:
-DjPaulT
burningtheground.net

RESTORATION NOTES:
All vinyl rips are recorded @ 32bit/float
FLAC (Level Eight)
Artwork scanned at 600dpi

**24bit FLAC Only Available For Seven Days!

Password: burningtheground

You can help show your support for this blog by donating using PayPal. I appreciate your help.