Thursday 27 December 2018

Spirit in Top of the Pops

First of all, let me wish each and every one of you who reads and contributes to this blog a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! And now it's time to pull a cracker, and see what's inside the final edition of Top of the Pops 1986!

Doctor and the Merries



25/12/86  (Simon Bates, Gary Davies, Janice Long & Peter Powell)

Billy Ocean – “When The Going Gets Tough The Tough Get Going”
Billy gets the Christmas Day show of (almost) exclusively number ones underway with his one and only chart topper, from back in February.

The Communards – “Don’t Leave Me This Way” (video)
A-ha – “The Sun Always Shines On TV” (video)
Europe – “The Final Countdown” (video)

Doctor & The Medics – “Spirit In The Sky”

Cliff Richard & The Young Ones – “Living Doll” (video)
Spitting Image – “The Chicken Song” (video)

Boris Gardiner – “I Want To Wake Up With You”
Boris finally performs his only number one hit in the studio!

Diana Ross – “Chain Reaction” (video)
Berlin – “Take My Breath Away” (video)

Simply Red – “Holding Back The Years”
With the only song on the show not to make number one.

Nick Berry – “Every Loser Wins” (video)
Falco – “Rock Me Amadeus” (video)
George Michael – “A Different Corner” (video)

Pet Shop Boys – “West End Girls”

Madonna – “True Blue” (video)
Madonna – “Papa Don’t Preach” (video)

Chris De Burgh – “The Lady In Red”

The Housemartins – “Caravan Of Love” (video)
Jackie Wilson – “Reet Petite” (video)
Pipping the Housemartins to the top spot, this was the first of four weeks at number one for Jackie Wilson.


Wham! – “Edge Of Heaven” (video/credits)



Next up is January 1st 1987.

Friday 21 December 2018

Top of the Pops Petite

This edition of Top of the Pops from 18th December 1986 will not be shown on BBC4 because it is hosted by Mike Smith. So a huge thanks goes once again to the uploader for making it available here at We Transfer.

Ear we go

18/12/86  (Mike Smith)

The Gap Band – “Big Fun” (15)
Became their second and final top ten hit when it peaked at number 4.

Jackie Wilson – “Reet Petite” (2) (video)
Will be number one next week.

Dexys Midnight Runners – “Because Of You” (20)
Went up to number 13.

A-ha – “Cry Wolf” (10)
Peaked at number 5.

Paul McCartney – “Only Love Remains” (34) (breaker)
Went up no higher.

Eurythmics – “The Miracle Of Love” (28) (breaker)
Peaked at number 23.

Status Quo – “Dreamin’” (25) (video)
Went up ten more places.

The Housemartins – “Caravan Of Love” (1) (rpt from 11/12/86)
One and only week at the top.

The Communards – “So Cold The Night” (8) (video/credits)
At its peak.


Next up is the Chritmas Day edition.

Caravan of Top of the Pops

Get yourself parked up in a spot with a good view for this 11th December 1986 edition of Top of the Pops!

Happy Hull-idays

11/12/86  (Janice Long & Steve Wright)

Jaki Graham – “Step Right Up” (21)
Getting the show underway tonight with her final top 40 hit, and it peaked at number 15.

The Housemartins – “Caravan Of Love” (3)
In the studio to perform this a-cappella cover of the Chris Jasper song that will be number one next week.

Alison Moyet – “Is This Love?” (24)
In the studio with her first hit for a year and a half, and it peaked at number 3.

Cameo – “Candy” (27) (breaker)
Got no higher.

Dexys Midnight Runners – “Because Of You” (25) (breaker)
The theme tune of 'Brush Strokes', it peaked at number 13 and was the band's final hit.

A-ha – “Cry Wolf” (16) (breaker)
Peaked at number 5.

Jackie Wilson – “Reet Petite” (14) (breaker)
Originally peaking at number 6 in 1957, this re-issue will be this year's Christmas number one.

George Benson – “Shiver” (19)
Performing a live vocal in the studio but the song was at its peak.

Europe – “The Final Countdown” (1) (rpt from 20/11/86)
Second and final week at number one.

Madonna – “Open Your Heart” (8) (video/credits)
And who should pop into the studio to help introduce the playout song, but Paul McCartney! And this fourth top ten hit of 1986 for Madonna peaked at number 4.


December 18th is next, but it is another Mike Smith edition.

Thursday 20 December 2018

Land of Top of the Pops

This edition of Top of the Pops from December 4th 1986 will not be shown on BBC4 because of the contract dispute with Mike Smith. So a huge thanks once again to the uploader for making it available here at We Transfer.

Top Twenty Spit

04/12/86 (Mike Smith)

The Communards – “So Cold The Night” (14)
Getting the show underway with their follow up to Don't Leave Me This Way, and it peaked at number 8.

Oran ‘Juice’ Jones – “The Rain” (12) (video)
His only hit, and it peaked at number 4.

Erasure – “Sometimes” (3)
Went up one more place.

Genesis – “Land Of Confusion” (20) (video)
Peaked at number 14.

Jaki Graham – “Step Right Up” (26) (breaker)
Became her final top 40 hit when it peaked at number 15.

The Housemartins – “Caravan Of Love” (23) (breaker)
Became their only number one hit.

George Benson – “Shiver” (21) (breaker)
Peaked at number 19.

Gregory Abbott – “Shake You Down” (15)
His only hit and it peaked at number 6.

Europe – “The Final Countdown” (1) (video)
Ther first of two weeks at number one.

Bruce Springsteen – “War” (18) (live clip/credits)
Got no higher.


December 11th is next.

The Skye Boat Top of the Pops

Wet your whistles with a whiskey, it's time for the November 27th 1986 edition of Top of the Pops!

Top Gun of the Pops

27/11/86  (Gary Davies)

Frankie Goes To Hollywood – “Warriors (Of The Wasteland)” (19)
Getting tonight's show underway with this hard edged sound, but it got no higher than number 19.

Debbie Harry – “French Kissing In The USA” (9) (video)
Not much snogging going on in the video, but the song slithered up one more place.

Five Star – “If I Say Yes” (15)
Their fifth top 20 hit of 1986, but this was the least successful of them, peaking at number 15.

Roger Whittaker & Des O’Connor – “The Skye Boat Song” (17)
Christmas must be on its way!  This eccentric offering became Roger's third and final top ten hit, and Des's fourth and final top ten hit, when it whistled up to number 10.

Iron Maiden – “Stranger In A Strange Land” (22) (breaker)
Got no higher.

Genesis – “Land Of Confusion” (21) (breaker)
Peaked at number 14.

Nick Kamen – “Each Time You Break My Heart” (8)
In the studio with his band to perform this song written and produced by Madonna, and it went up three more places.

Berlin – “Take My Breath Away” (1) (video)
Fourth and final week at number one.

Anita Baker – “Sweet Love” (13) (audience dancing/credits)
At its peak.


December 4th is next, but it is yet another Mike Smith edition.

Friday 14 December 2018

The Top of the Pops Countdown

Five, four, three, two, one ~ it's the 20th November 1986 and time for the 1188th edition of Top of the Pops!

Bon Europe

20/11/86 (Janice Long & John Peel with brief appearance from Gary Davies & Smiley Miley)

Europe – “The Final Countdown” (5)
Bon Jovi in disguise get our final installment of the night underway with what will be number one in two weeks time.

Simple Minds – “Ghostdancing” (13) (video)
At its peak.

Swing Out Sister – “Breakout” (4)
A second studio appearance but the song went up no higher.

Erasure – “Sometimes” (16)
Vince Clarke's fourth group make their studio debut with their first of seventeen top ten hits, this belter peaking at number 2.

Anita Baker – “Sweet Love” (19) (breaker)
Her only top 40 hit, it peaked at number 13.

Nick Kamen – “Each Time You Break My Heart” (12) (breaker)
His only top ten hit, peaking at number 5.

Debbie Harry – “French Kissing In The USA” (11) (breaker)
Became her only solo top ten hit when it peaked at number 8.

Bon Jovi – “Livin’ On A Prayer” (7)
A second studio appearance for this song which consequently went up three more places.

Berlin – “Take My Breath Away” (1) (video)
Third of four weeks at number one.

Red Box – “For America” (10) (video/credits)
At its peak.


27th November is next.

This is Top of the Pops Calling

This edition of Top of the Pops from November 13th 1986 will not be shown of BBC4 because of the Mike Smith contract dispute. So a huge thank you to the uploader who has made it available here at We Transfer.

And here's an alternative We Transfer upload.


The end of the line

13/11/86 (Mike Smith)

Madness – “(Waiting For) The Ghost-Train” (20)
The most successful group of the 80's wave goodbye with this number 18 hit.

Shakin’ Stevens – “Because I Love You” (18) (video)
Went up four more places.

Kim Wilde – “You Keep Me Hanging On” (2)
At its peak.

Spandau Ballet – “Through The Barricades” (8)
Went up two more places.

Simple Minds – “Ghostdancing” (22) (breaker)
Peaked at number 13.

Europe – “The Final Countdown” (14) (breaker)
Will get to number one in three weeks time.

Bob Geldof – “This Is The World Calling” (25)
Stuck at number 25, and it got no higher.

Berlin – “Take My Breath Away” (1) (video)
Second of four weeks at number one.

Mel & Kim – “Showing Out (Get Fresh At The Weekend)” (4) (video/credits)
Went up one more place.


20th November is next.

Top of the Pops on a Prayer

Do you remember remember this 6th of November 1986 edition of Top of the Pops?


Top of the bobs


06/11/86 (Peter Powell & Steve Wright)

Bon Jovi – “Livin’ On A Prayer” (15)
Bon Jovi get our Top of the Pops marathon underway tonight with what became their first of eighteen top ten hits when it peaked at number 4.

Peter Gabriel & Kate Bush – “Don’t Give Up” (16) (video)
A very cuddly video to prmote this second single from Peter's number one album, So. It peaked at number 9 and would be Kate's last top ten hit for nineteen years!

Red Box – “For America” (22)
Became their second and final top ten hit when it peaked at number 10.

Swing Out Sister – “Breakout” (17)
One of the best songs of the year, and it became their first of two top ten hits when it peaked at number 4.

Bob Geldof – “This Is The World Calling” (25) (breaker)
His first solo hit, but it got no higher than number 25.

Shakin’ Stevens – “Because I Love You” (24) (breaker)
Looking and sounding all moody, and it went up ten more places.

Spandau Ballet – “Through The Barricades” (20) (breaker)
Became their tenth and final top ten hit when it peaked at number 6.

Duran Duran – “Notorious” (7)
The remaining members make it into the studio, but the song was at its peak.

Berlin – “Take My Breath Away” (1) (video)
First of four weeks at number one.

The Pretenders – “Don’t Get Me Wrong” (10) (video/credits)
At its peak.


Next up is November 13th, but it's a Mike Smith edition.

Friday 7 December 2018

(They Long to Be) Top of the Pops

Why do hits suddenly appear, every time you are near, just like me, you long to be watching the 30th October 1986 edition of Top of the Pops!


Hat's the way to do it!

30/10/86  (Janice Long)

Mel & Kim – “Showing Out (Get Fresh At The Weekend)” (24) 
Looking like an 80's version of Baccara, the Appleby sisters get tonight's show underway with what became their first of four top ten hits when it peaked at number 3.

Berlin – “Take My Breath Away” (7) (video)
Will be number one next week.

Catherine Stock – “To Have & To Hold” (17)
Mike Stock's sister performing her only hit, and it got no higher than number 17.

Gwen Guthrie – “(They Long To Be) Close To You” (25)
This disco version of the classic Bacharach and David song got no higher than number 25.

Bon Jovi – “Livin’ On A Prayer” (27) (breaker)
Became their first of eighteen top ten hits when it peaked at number 4.

The Smiths – “Ask” (16) (breaker)
Went up two more places.

Duran Duran – “Notorious” (14) (breaker)
Peaked at number 7.

Kim Wilde – “You Keep Me Hanging On” (15)
In the studio to perform the Supremes cover which would become her first top ten hit for over five years when it peaked at number 2.

Nick Berry – “Every Loser Wins” (1) (video)
Third and (thankfully!) final week at number one. Shame he didn't make it into the studio.

Status Quo – “In The Army Now” (2) (video/credits)
At its peak.



November 6th is next.

Friday 30 November 2018

Top of the Pops Colors

Red and yellow and pink and green, orange and purple and smoke - I can (almost) see a 23rd October 1986 edition of Top of the Pops!


Girls just want to have fog


23/10/86  (Gary Davies)

The Pretenders – “Don’t Get Me Wrong” (14)
Gettingthe show underway with what became their fourth of six top ten hits when it peaked at number 8.

Midnight Star – “Midas Touch” (10) (video)
The costumes stood out more than the song for me, but Midas Touch did reach number 8.

The Housemartins – “Think For A Minute” (22)
I liked the bit where they were all looking round for the phantom trumpet player :-) The song peaked at number 18.

Billy Idol – “To Be A Lover” (27) (video)
Peaked at number 22.

The Mission – “Stay With Me” (30) (breaker)
Their debut top 40 hit but it got no higher.

Gwen Guthrie – “(They Long To Be) Close To You” (29) (breaker)
Peaked at number 25.

Cyndi Lauper – “True Colors” (12)
I was a bit worried for her surrounded by all that smoke! It was a good song but number 12 was as high as it got.

Nick Berry – “Every Loser Wins” (1) (video)
Second of three weeks at number one.

Bangles – “Walk Like An Egyptian” (6) (video/credits)
A great video to end the show, and the song went up three more places.


30th October is next.

Thursday 29 November 2018

Every Top of the Pops Wins

The good news is that BBC4 have confirmed The Story Of/Big Hits 1987 for the new year, so what better way to celebrate than with this 16th Ocober 1986 edition of Top of the Pops!

Kiss you nights

16/10/86  (Simon Bates & Steve Wright)

Pet Shop Boys – “Suburbia” (8)
Looking like they've just strolled in off the street to get the show underway, but Suburbia got no higher.

Cliff Richard & Sarah Brightman – “All I Ask Of You” (7) (video)
Cliff and Sarah get a little bit saucy and this tune from The Phantom of the Opera peaked at number 3.

Boris Gardiner – “You’re Everything To Me” (25)
Boris finally makes it into the studio to perform what became his final top 40 hit when it peaked at number 11.

Marti Webb – “Always There” (14)
Went up one more place.

The Housemartins – “Think For A Minute” (28) (breaker)
Peaked at number 18.

The Police – “Don’t Stand So Close To Me ‘86” (24) (breaker)
Got no higher.

Midnight Star – “Midas Touch” (22) (breaker)
Became their only top ten hit when it peaked at number 8.

Paul Hardcastle – “The Wizard” (23)
Paul seems to be having a blast performing the new Top of the Pops theme tune in the studio with his army of keyboards, and it peaked at number 15.

Nick Berry – “Every Loser Wins” (1) (video)
First of three weeks at number one.

Status Quo – “In The Army Now” (5) (video/credits)
On its way to number 2.


23rd October is next.

Friday 23 November 2018

Top of the Pops Like an Egyptian

Slip into your softest sandals, brightest tunic and most colourful headdress, and bring your best sand dancing moves to the 9th October 1986 edition of Top of the Pops!

Just another manic mummy


09/10/86  (Gary Davies & Simon Mayo)

Bangles – “Walk Like An Egyptian” (20)
Flying in from LA to get the show off to a pharoah-ly good start with what became the second of their three top ten hits when it peaked at number 3.

Nick Berry – “Every Loser Wins” (4) (video)
Will be number one next week.

Julian Cope – “World Shut Your Mouth” (28)
Clearly having far too much fun with that microphone, this arousing tune became his biggest solo hit, peaking at number 19.

Paul Young – “Wonderland” (24)
A bit of a slow builder this one, but once it got going it didn't sound half bad at all. However, number 24 was its peak.

Howard Jones – “All I Want” (35)
Loyal dancer Jed is back, this time sporting a quite nightmarish mask, for what would be Howard's final top 40 hit, and it got no higher than number 35.

Madonna – “True Blue” (1) (video)
Just the one week at number one for 50's throwback True Blue.

Paul Simon – “You Can Call Me Al” (5) (video/credits)
A quirky video to end the show starring Chevy Chase for what became Paul's third and final solo top ten hit, taken from his mammoth number one album Graceland, when it peaked at number 4.



16th October is next.

Saturday 17 November 2018

Forever Live & Top of the Pops

This edition of Top of the Pops from 2nd October 1986 will not be broadcast of BBC4 due to the unfortunate situation with Mike Smith's unsigned contract. So a huge thanks once again goes to the uploader for making it available here at WeTransfer.

In the 80's now


02/10/86 (Mike Smith)

OMD – “(Forever) Live & Die” (11)
At its peak.

Five Star – “Rain Or Shine” (2) (video)
Also at its peak.

Status Quo – “In The Army Now” (29)
The Quo try their hand at a slightly new sound and are rewarded with a number 2 hit.

Madonna – “True Blue” (3) (video)
Will be number one next week.

Queen – “Who Wants To Live Forever” (24) (breaker)
Got no higher.

Cyndi Lauper – “True Colors” (21) (breaker)
Peaked at number 12.

A-ha – “I’ve Been Losing You” (14) (breaker)
The first single from their number 2 album, Scoundrel Days, and it peaked at number 8.

Pet Shop Boys – “Suburbia” (23)
Peaked at number 8.

The Communards – “Don’t Leave Me This Way” (1) (video)
Final week at number one.

Paul Hardcastle – “The Wizard” (not in chart) (video/credits)
The new theme tune released at last, and it peaked at number 15.

October 9th is next.

Friday 16 November 2018

Don't Top of the Pops me This Way

Have a Pudsey Bear free zone for half an hour and catch this 25th September 1986 edition of Top of the Pops!

Don't leave me this hat

25/09/86  (Janice Long)

Amazulu – “Montego Bay” (23)
Getting tonight's show underway with what would be their final top 20 hit when this Bobby Bloom cover peaked at number 16.

Huey Lewis & The News – “Stuck With You” (15) (video)
Went up three more places.

Farley ‘Jackmaster’ Funk – “Love Can’t Turn Around” (10)
Darryl is back wriggling around on the floor with a live mic, but the song went up no further.

Genesis – “In Too Deep” (22) (video)
Peaked at number 19.

Paul Simon – “You Can Call Me Al” (26) (breaker)
Became his third and final top ten hit when it reached number 4.

Marti Webb – “Always There” (24) (breaker)
With the theme from Howard's Way, this was Marti's third and final top 40 hit, peaking at number 13.

Big Country – “One Great Thing” (19) (breaker)
A thumping food tune but it got no higher.

Loose Ends – “Slow Down” (29)
In the studio with a very animated performance, and the song went up two more places.

The Communards – “Don’t Leave Me This Way” (1) (rpt from 18/09/86)
Third of four weeks at number one.

Run DMC – “Walk This Way” (8) (video/credits)
At its peak.


October 2nd is next but it's another Mike Smith edition.

Thursday 15 November 2018

Thorn in my Top of the Pops

Strap on your brightest codpiece and get ready to dance along with the 18th September 1986 edition of Top of the Pops!

You've cod to be kidding me



18/09/86  (Peter Powell & Steve Wright)

Timex Social Club – “Rumors” (20)
'The' Social Club get the show off to a prompt start with their only hit, and it peaked at number 13.

Eurythmics – “Thorn In My Side” (10) (Montreux clip)
Their ninth and final top ten hit, on its way to number 5.

Michael McDonald – “Sweet Freedom” (17)
Live in the studio to perform what would be his third and final top 20 hit, Sweet Freedom peaking at number 12.

OMD – “(Forever) Live & Die” (24)
Paul takes over lead vocal duties for what would be the band's final top 20 hit as a duo, when it reached number 11.

Genesis – “In Too Deep” (22) (breaker)
The second of five top 30 singles to come from their number one album, Invisible Touch. This one peaked at number 19.

Huey Lewis & The News – “Stuck With You” (21) (breaker)
Their third and final top 40 hit, peaking at number 12.

Cameo – “Word Up” (6)
A legendary performance of course, and their only top ten hit, peaking at number 3.

The Communards – “Don’t Leave Me This Way” (1)
Another vibrant studio performance of 1986's biggest hit, now enjoying its second of four weeks at number one.

Five Star – “Rain Or Shine” (13) (video/credits)
Their biggest hit, peaking at number 2.


September 25th is next.

Saturday 10 November 2018

Top of the Pops This Way

This edition of Top of the Pops from September 11th 1986 will not be shown on BBC4 because of the Mike Smith contract debacle. So a huge thanks goes to the uploader for making it avaiable here at WeTransfer.


Steven don't want to miss a thing


11/09/86  (Mike Smith)

Samantha Fox – “Hold On Tight” (26)
Got no higher.

Run DMC – “Walk This Way” (15) (video)
Peaked at number 8.

Cutting Crew – “(I Just) Died In Your Arms” (8)
Went up four more places.

The Psychedelic Furs – “Pretty In Pink” (25) 
Their biggest hit, peaking at number 18.

Iron Maiden – “Wasted Years” (18) (breaker)
Got no higher.

Eurythmics – “Thorn In My Side” (16) (breaker)
Became their 9th and final top ten hit when it peaked at number  5.

Cameo – “Word Up” (13) (breaker)
Thier only top ten hit, peaking at number 3.

Jermaine Stewart – “We Don’t Have To…” (3)
Went up one more place.

The Communards – “Don’t Leave Me This Way” (1) (video)
First of four weeks at number one.

Peter Cetera – “Glory Of Love” (5) (video/credits)
Went up two more places.


Next up is 18th September.

Friday 9 November 2018

You Give Top of the Pops a Bad Name

No one will blame you for not wanting to miss this 4th September 1986 edition of Top of the Pops!

Bless this House

04/09/86 (Gary Davies)

The Communards – “Don’t Leave Me This Way” (2)
An exhuberant performance to kick off an exciting show tonight, of what will be number one next week, and the biggest selling single of 1986.

MC Miker G & Deejay Sven – “Holiday Rap” (23)
Over from Holland to perform their only hit (thankfully!) which somehow peaked at number 6.

Bruce Hornsby & The Range – “The Way It Is” (15) (video)
In contrast, this fabulous song got no higher than number 15.

Bon Jovi – “You Give Love A Bad Name” (22)
Making their studio debut with the first of an incredible 37 top 40 hits, this one being on its way to number 14.

Farley ‘Jackmaster’ Funk – “Love Can’t Turn Around” (16)
Doing the live vocals whilst rolling around on the stage is Darryl Pandy, and this house music breakthrough hit peaked at number 10.

Frankie Goes To Hollywood – “Rage Hard” (6)
Returning to the studio with a scary new look and their first song for over a year and a half, which barring re-issues and re-mixes became their fifth and final top ten hit when it peaked at number 4.

Boris Gardiner – “I Want To Wake Up With You” (1) (video/credits)
Third and final week at number one.


September 11th is next, but it's a Mike Smith edition.

Thursday 8 November 2018

I Want to Wake Up With Top of the Pops

Set your alarm - it's time for the August 28th 1986 edition of Top of the Pops!

All you need is glove


28/08/86  (Janice Long & John Peel)

Jermaine Stewart – “We Don’t Have To Take Our Clothes Off” (6)
Getting tonight's show underway with his first of two top ten hits, this one being his biggest when it peaked at number 2.

Peter Cetera – “Glory Of Love” (9) (video)
On its way to number 3.

Jaki Graham – “Breaking Away” (16)
Performing in the studio but the song got no higher.

The Stranglers – “Nice In Nice” (32) (breaker)
Went up two more places.

Daryl Hall – “Dreamtime” (28) (breaker)
His first and biggest solo hit, but it got no higher.

Cutting Crew – “(I Just) Died In Your Arms” (26) (breaker)
Their only top ten hit, peaking at number 4.

Bon Jovi – “You Give Love A Bad Name” (25) (breaker)
Their breakthrough hit, it peaked at number 14.

The Human League – “Human” (10)
Phil if anything looking younger than he did five years earlier when he used to have his trademark long hair, and this song went up two more places.

Boris Gardiner – “I Want To Wake Up With You” (1) (video)
Second of three weeks at number one.

Janet Jackson – “When I Think Of You” (15) (video/credits)
Peaked at number 10.


4th September is next.

Friday 2 November 2018

Brother Top of the Pops

Time to leave those holiday discos behind for another year and tune in to this 21st August 1986 edition of Top of the Pops!

Hold a chicken in the air.....


21/08/86  (Bruno Brookes & Gary Davies)

Depeche Mode – “A Question Of Time” (25)
Their last top ten hit was in 1984, and they will have to wait until 1990 for their next, this latest attempt peaking at number 15.

Prince – “Girls & Boys” (11) (video)
At its peak.

Bruce Hornsby & The Range – “The Way It Is” (23)
In the studio with this impressive tune which was on its way to number 15.

Janet Jackson – “When I Think Of You” (21) (breaker)
Peaked at number 10.

The Human League – “Human” (19) (breaker)
Became their first top ten hit for three years when it peaked at number 8.

Peter Cetera – “Glory Of Love” (18) (breaker)
From the movie Karate Kid 2, this song made it to number 3.

Jermaine Stewart – “We Don’t Have To…” (15) (breaker)
Peaked at number 2.

Modern Talking – “Brother Louie” (12)
It's the time of year when those two wet gits with their girly curly hair ....... Actually, they might be a sort of German version of Black Lace, but the song is very catchy and deservedly reached number 4, though we never heard from this pair again.

Boris Gardiner – “I Want To Wake Up With You” (1) (video)
First of three weeks at number one for Boris - shame he didn't make it into the studio.

The Communards – “Don’t Leave Me This Way” (28) (video/credits)
And here's the song that will replace Boris next month.


August 28th is next.

Thursday 1 November 2018

Anyone Can Top of the Pops

Get outta my pub! It's time for the 14th August 1986 edition of Top of the Pops!

You'll get Albert Square eyes!


14/08/86  (Simon Bates)

It Bites – “Calling All The Heroes” (10)
Getting the show off to a snappy start and the song went up to number 6.

Lionel Richie – “Dancing On The Ceiling” (18) (video)
On his way to the dizzy heights of number 7.

Anita Dobson – “Anyone Can Fall In Love” (4)
Looking far too glamourous for the Queen Vic, Anita makes her studio debut and the theme tune for Eastenders proved to be no duff duff, peaking at number 4.

Doctor & The Medics – “Burn” (29) (breaker)
Thier final top 40 hit and it got no higher.

Bruce Hornsby & The Range – “The Way It Is” (28) (breaker)
His only top 40 hit and it peaked at number 15.

Prince – “Girls & Boys” (27) (breaker)
Peaked at number 11.

Phil Fearon – “I Can Prove It” (17)
In the studio to perform his final top 40 hit, and it peaked at number 8.

Chris De Burgh – “The Lady In Red” (1)
His third week at number one, not his fourth like Simon said, and another live rendition, this time at the piano, and at the end in the lady in red herself appears with a bouquet of flowers for him!

Jaki Graham – “Breaking Away” (22) (video/credits)
Peaked at number 16.



August 21st is next.

Sunday 28 October 2018

Top of the Pops Macho

This edition of Top of the Pops from 7th August 1986 will not be shownon BBC4 due to the unresolvable contract issue with Mike Smith. So a special thanks to the uploader who has made it available here at WeTransfer.


So Yello



07/08/86 (Mike Smith)

Status Quo – “Red Sky” (19)
At its peak.

Boris Gardiner – “I Want To Wake Up With You” (5) (video)
His first hit for sixteen years! And it became his only number one hit.

Lulu – “Shout” (16)
Her original version peaked at number 7 in 1964, this new version, which also became her first top ten hit since 1974, peaked at number 8.

The Smiths – “Panic” (11) (video)
Got no higher.

Patti LaBelle – “Oh People” (34) (breaker)
Peaked at number 26.

Phil Fearon – “I Can Prove It” (31) (breaker)
Became his fourth and final top ten hit when it peaked at number 8.

Lionel Richie – “Dancing On The Ceiling” (23) (breaker)
Peaked at number 7.

Sinitta – “So Macho” (2)
Couldn't quite make it to number one.

Chris De Burgh – “The Lady In Red” (1)
His second of three weeks at number one.

Gwen Guthrie – “Ain’t Nothin’ Goin’ On But The Rent” (12) (video/credits)
Her only top ten hit, peaking at number 5.


August 14th is next.

Friday 26 October 2018

The Top of the Pops in Red

Time to leave the jungle wars behind and instead be dancing cheek to cheek with the 31st July 1986 edition of Top of the Pops!

The ladies in pink


31/07/86  (Janice Long & Mike Read)

 Spandau Ballet – “Fight For Ourselves” (15)
 Getting the show off to a fashionable start, but the song got no higher.

 The Jesus & Mary Chain – “Some Candy Talking” (13) (video)
 Their debut top 40 hit was now at its peak.

 Five Star – “Find The Time” (10)
 In the studio with another dance routine and the song went up three more places.

 Paul McCartney – “Press” (31) (breaker)
 A relative failure for Paul, peaking at number 25.

 The Smiths – “Panic” (18) (breaker)
 Peaked at number 11.

 Stan Ridgway – “Camouflage” (6)
 The studio has become a jungle and Stan's only hit went up two more places.

 Chris De Burgh – “The Lady In Red” (1)
 The first of three weeks for Chris's only number one hit.

 It Bites – “Calling All The Heroes” (36) (video/credits)
 Became their only top ten hit when it peaked at number 6.


7th August is next but it is yet another Mike Smith edition.

Thursday 25 October 2018

What's the Colour of Top of the Pops?

Summer's here and the time is right for the 24th July 1986 edition of Top of the Pops!


Keeping the red flag flying here


24/07/86  (Gary Davies & Peter Powell)

Hollywood Beyond – “What’s The Colour Of Money?” (8)
Getting the show off to an upbeat start with their only top 40 hit, and it went up one more place.

Sinitta – “So Macho” (16) (video)
Her first of four top ten hits, this one being the biggest when it peaked at number 2.

Audrey Hall – “Smile” (19)
With her second and final hit, which peaked at number 14.

Robert Palmer – “I Didn’t Mean To Turn You On” (11) (video)
Went up two more places.

Spandau Ballet – “Fight For Ourselves” (30) (breaker)
Their first hit for a year and a half, and it peaked at number 15.

Five Star – “Find The Time” (25) (breaker)
Their third of four top ten hits in 1986, this one peaking at number 7.

The Jesus & Mary Chain – “Some Candy Talking” (20) (breaker)
Their first of twelve top 40 hits, and it peaked at number 13.

Haywoode – “Roses” (14)
Peaked at number 11.

Madonna – “Papa Don’t Preach” (1) (video)
Third and final week at number one.

Katrina & The Waves – “Sun Street” (33) (video/credits)
Another summer hit for the band, this one reaching number 22.


Next up is July 31st.

Sunday 21 October 2018

Sing Our Own Top of the Pops

This edition of Top of the Pops from 17th July 1986 will not be shown on BBC4 due to the unresolved contract issue with Mike Smith, so a huge thanks goes to Gia for making it available here at WeTransfer.


Hole in my shirt



7/07/86  (Mike Smith)

Steve Winwood – “Higher Love” (14) 
Went up one more place.

UB40 – “Sing Our Own Song” (6) (video)
Also went up one more place.

Chris De Burgh – “The Lady In Red” (10)
On its way to number one.

Cock Robin – “The Promise You Made” (31) (breaker)
Their only hit, peaking at number 28.

Robert Palmer – “I Didn’t Mean To Turn You On” (30) (breaker)
This follow up to Addicted to Love peaked at number 9.

Hollywood Beyond – “What’s The Colour Of Money?” (24) (breaker)
Their only top 40 hit and it peaked at number 7.

Stan Ridgway – “Camouflage” (17) + brief interview 
His only hit,and it peaked at number 4.

Madonna – “Papa Don’t Preach” (1) (video)
Second of three weeks at number one.

Sly Fox – “Let’s Go All The Way” (3) (video/credits)
At its peak.


July 24th is next.

Friday 19 October 2018

Bang Zoom Let's Go Top of the Pops

You are rocking with the best - it's the 10th July 1986 edition of Top of the Pops!

Can I get a hit, Howie?


10/07/86  (Simon Bates & Bruno Brookes)

Midnight Star – “Headlines” (16)
Getting the show off to a five star performance but the breaking news is that the song got no higher in the charts.

Rod Stewart – “Every Beat Of My Heart” (17) (video)
Became Rod's 18th solo top ten hit when it peaked at number 2.

Real Roxanne with Hitman Howie Tee – “(Bang Zoom) Let’s Go Go” (12)
Her only top 40 hit, and it peaked at number 11.

Furniture – “Brilliant Mind” (26) (breaker)
Their only hit, peaking at number 21.

Haywoode – “Roses” (25) (breaker)
It had made it to number 65 a year earlier, this re-issue now became her only top 40 hit, peaking at number 11.

Steve Winwood – “Higher Love” (24) (breaker)
His biggest solo hit, peaking at number 13.

UB40 – “Sing Our Own Song” (22) (breaker)
Peaked at number 5.

Owen Paul – “My Favourite Waste Of Time” (3)
In the studio again but the song got no higher.

Madonna – “Papa Don’t Preach” (1) (video)
First of three weeks at number one.

Bananarama – “Venus” (8) (video/credits)
At its peak.



July 17th is next, but it's another Mike Smith edition.

Friday 12 October 2018

It's Orrible Being in Love When You're Top of the Pops

Time to wave your scarves in the air for the 3rd July 1986 edition of Top of the Pops!

Max of the pops



03/07/86  (Janice Long)

The Housemartins – “Happy Hour” (3)
Making their studio debut to get tonight's show underway but the song could get no higher.

Gary Numan – “I Can’t Stop” (27) (video)
At its peak.

Samantha Fox – “Do Ya Do Ya (Wanna Please Me)” (12)
She might have got the thumbs down from Fat Boy Slim but the song went up two more places.

Claire & Friends – “It’s ‘Orrible Being In Love When You’re 8 ½” (19)
Written and produced by Brian & Micheal, of Matchstalk Men and Matchstalk Cats and Dogs fame, and it peaked at number 13.

Bucks Fizz – “New Beginning (Mamba Seyra)” (8) (video)
At its peak.

Sly Fox – “Let’s Go All The Way” (23) 
In the studio to perform their only hit, and it went all the way to number 3.

Wham! – “Where Did Your Heart Go?” (1)
Performing the flip side to Edge o Heaven, in its second and final week at number one.

Art Of Noise & Max Headroom – “Paranoimia” (26) (video/credits)
It looked bizarre then, and if anything it looks even more bizarre now, but it got to number 12.


July 10th is next.

Thursday 11 October 2018

Top of the Pops of Heaven

This edition of Top of the Pops from 26th June 1986 will not be shown on BBC4 due to the Mike Smith dispute. So a big thanks goes to Neil B for making it available here at WeTransfer.

Banana-armpits




26/06/86  (Mike Smith & Steve Wright)

Bananarama – “Venus” (15)
Peaked at number 8.

David Bowie – “Underground” (21) (video)
At is peak.

Queen – “Friends Will Be Friends” (14) (video)
Also at its peak.

Claire & Friends – “It’s ‘Orrible Being In Love When You’re 8 ½” (26) (breaker)
Peaked at number 13.

Samantha Fox – “Do Ya Do Ya (Wanna Please Me)” (24) (breaker)
Became her second of three top ten hits when it peaked at number 10.

Owen Paul – “My Favourite Waste Of Time” (7)
Heading for number 3.

Madonna – “Papa Don’t Preach” (13) (video)
Heading for number one.

Wham! – “The Edge Of Heaven” (1)
First of two weeks at number one.

Midge Ure – “Call Of The Wild” (27) (video/credits)
At its peak.


Next up is 3rd July.

Too Good to be Top of the Pops

Time to slip into your spandex and leg warmers and enjoy this 19th June 1986 edition of Top of the Pops!

My leotard never lies


19/06/86  (Gary Davies)

Bucks Fizz – “New Beginning (Mamba Seyra)” (11)
Beginning tonight's show with new member Shelley Preston, who looked liked she was planning on going to the gym afterwards, this song was to be their seventh and final top ten hit when it peaked at number 8.

A-ha – “Hunting High & Low” (5) (video)
At its peak.

Amazulu – “Too Good To Be Forgotten” (9)
Either my telly was going on the blink, or someone was messing around with the volume control! Their only top ten hit, peaking at number 5.

Bananarama – “Venus” (22) (breaker)
This Shocking Blue cover became their first top ten hit for two years when, just like the 1970 original, it made it to number 8.

Queen – “Friends Will Be Friends” (21) (breaker)
Peaked at number 14.

Owen Paul – “My Favourite Waste Of Time” (14) (breaker)
His only hit, peaking at number 3.

Nu Shooz – “I Can’t Wait” (3)
Making their debut in the studio, and it was worth it - the song went up one more place.

The Housemartins – “Happy Hour” (12) (video)
Became the first of two top ten hits for the band when it peaked at number 3.

Doctor & The Medics – “Spirit In The Sky” (1) (video)
Third and final week at number one.

Miami Sound Machine – “Bad Boy” (18) (video/audience dancing/credits)
Went up two more places.



June 26th is next but it's yet another Mike Smith edition.

Saturday 6 October 2018

Top of the Pops in the Sky

This edition of Top of the Pops from 11th June 1986 will not be shown on BBC4 due to the Mike Smith dispute. So a huge thanks goes to Gia for making it available here at WeTransfer.


Dr and the Milk Maids


11/06/86  (Mike Smith)

Sigue Sigue Sputnik – “21st Century Boy” (20)
Got no higher.

Falco – “Vienna Calling” (10) (video)
Also at its peak.

Lovebug Starski – “Amityville (The House On The Hill)” (19)
Their only hit, peaking at number 12.

Bucks Fizz – “New Beginning (Mamba Seyra)” (24) (breaker)
Became their seventh and final top ten hit when it peaked at number 8.

Amazulu – “Too Good To Be Forgotten” (21) (breaker)
Became their only top ten hit when it peaked at number 5.

A-ha – “Hunting High & Low” (16) (breaker)
The title track from their number 2 album, and it peaked at number 5.

The Real Thing – “Can’t Get By Without You” (6)
At its peak.

Robert Palmer – “Addicted To Love” (5) (video)
Also at its peak.

Doctor & The Medics – “Spirit In The Sky” (1)
Second of three weeks at number one.

Janet Jackson – “Nasty” (22) (video/audience dancing/credits)
Peaked at number 19.


Next up is June 19th.

Friday 5 October 2018

Top of the Pops the Years

Hold on to your hats! It's time for the 5th June 1986 edition of Top of the Pops!

Holding back the mic



05/06/86 (Gary Davies & Simon Bates)

Cashflow – “Mine All Mine” (15)
In the studio to get the show underway but the song went up no higher.

Genesis – “Invisible Touch” (16) (video)
The title song from their huge number one album, but it only went up one more place.

Simply Red – “Holding Back The Years” (2)
A terrific totally live performance of our blog title in the studio, complete with the audience joining in with the chorus, but number 2 was its peak.

Miami Sound Machine – “Bad Boy” (21) (breaker)
Peaked at number 16.

Falco – “Vienna Calling” (19) (breaker)
Peaked at number 10.

Pet Shop Boys – “Opportunities (Let’s Make Lots Of Money)” (17)
This third single from their debut album, Please, made it to number 11.

Nu Shooz – “I Can’t Wait” (10) (video)
On its way to number 2.

Doctor & The Medics – “Spirit In The Sky” (1)
A second studio performance and their first of three weeks at number one.

Jaki Graham – “Set Me Free” (9) (video/audience dancing/credits)
Went up two more places.


June 11th is next, but it's a Mike Smith edition.

Thursday 4 October 2018

Addicted to Top of the Pops

Slap on your reddest lipstick and slip into your slinkiest black dress, it's time to get your fix of the 29th May 1986 edition of Top of the Pops!

Totty of the Pops


29/05/86  (Janice Long & John Peel)

Doctor & The Medics – “Spirit In The Sky” (3)
Getting this live show off to the best place with what will be number one next week.

Robert Palmer – “Addicted To Love” (10) (video)
This video caused a bit of controversy at the time, but it helped Robert to his first top ten hit when it peaked at number 5.

The Real Thing – “Can’t Get By Without You” (22)
Another re-mix. It had peaked at number 2 in 1976, ten years on it reached number 6.

Nu Shooz – “I Can’t Wait” (21) (breaker)
Their only top 40 hit, and it peaked at number 2.

Cashflow – “Mine All Mine” (18) (breaker)
Their only hit, and it peaked at number 15.

Tears For Fears – “Everybody Wants To Run The World” (13) (video)
Became their sixth of seven top ten hits when it peaked at number 5 for Sport Aid.

Pete Wylie – “Sinful” (20) 
Pete brings his own backing group of sexy nuns into the studio to help Sinful on its way to number 13.

Spitting Image – “The Chicken Song” (1) (video)
Third and final week at number one.

Peter Gabriel – “Sledgehammer” (4) (video/audience dancing/credits)
At its peak.


June 5th is next.

Friday 28 September 2018

The Chicken Top of the Pops

You can hold a chicken in the air if you want to, but you don't have to climb inside a dog or pretend your name is Keith to enjoy this 22nd May 1986 edition of Top of the Pops!

Spitting Image perform their rubber one hit


22/05/86  (Gary Davies & Peter Powell)

Jaki Graham – “Set Me Free” (20)
Getting tonight's show off to an energetic start with what became her third and final top ten hit when it peaked at number 7.

The B-52’s – “Rock Lobster” (12) (video)
Originally a number 37 hit in 1979, this time round it did better and clawed its way to number 12.

Billy Ocean – “There’ll Be Sad Songs (To Make You Cry)” (13)
You just can't keep him away from the studio at the moment, and the song went up one more place.

Patti LaBelle & Michael McDonald – “On My Own” (2) (video)
At its peak.

Pete Wylie – “Sinful” (28) (breaker)
Peaked at number 13.

AC/DC – “Who Made Who” (27) (breaker)
Peaked at number 16.

Robert Palmer – “Addicted To Love” (16) (breaker)
Our first glimpse of this controversial video, and the song became Robert's first of five top ten hits when it peaked at number 5.

Simply Red – “Holding Back The Years” (19)
Our 1986 theme tune is performed in the studio on its way up to number 2.

Spitting Image – “The Chicken Song” (1)
A studio performance no less for The Chicken Song's second of three weeks at number one.

Matchroom Mob with Chas & Dave – “Snooker Loopy” (6) (video/audience dancing/credits)
Another chance to see Chas & Dave's final top ten hit which was now at its peak.


Next up is May 29th.

Thursday 27 September 2018

Lessons in Top of the Pops

This edition of Top of the Pops from 15th May 1986 will not be shown on BBC4 because of the dispute with Mike Smith's contract. So a big thanks goes to (I think Neil B once again probably?) for making it available here at WeTransfer.


Head banger


15/05/86  (Simon Bates & Mike Smith)

Status Quo – “Rollin’ Home” (25)
New line up, same old sound! And Peaked at number 9.

Level 42 – “Lessons In Love” (3) (Montreux clip)
At its peak.

Joyce Sims – “All & All” (16)
Also at its peak.

Doctor & The Medics – “Spirit In The Sky” (17)
Heading for number one.

ZZ Top – “Rough Boy” (29) (breaker)
Peaked at number 23.

The B-52’s – “Rock Lobster” (20) (breaker)
Peaked at number 12.

Peter Gabriel – “Sledgehammer” (7) (video)
Peaked at number 4.

Spitting Image – “The Chicken Song” (1) (video)
First of three weeks at number one.

Van Halen – “Why Can’t This Be Love?” (13) (video/audience dancing/credits)
Peaked at number 8.



May 22nd is next.


Top of the Pops Loopy

Here's your cue to clear everything off the table and plant yourself on a comfy cushion in front of the goggle box for the 8th May 1986 edition of Top of the Pops!

Top of the pots



08/05/86  (Janice Long & John Peel)

The Cure – “Boys Don’t Cry” (23)
It's a live show tonight and The Cure break off with a tune that went up one more place.

Patti LaBelle & Michael McDonald – “On My Own” (4) (video)
On its way to number 2.

Matchroom Mob with Chas & Dave – “Snooker Loopy” (37) (with video inserts)
Perhaps not their greatest song, but nevertheless it's a timely tribute to Chas Hodges, with what became their fourth and final top ten hit when it peaked at number 6.

Force MDs – “Tender Love” (34) (breaker)
Their only hit, peaking at number 23.

Van Halen – “Why Can’t This Be Love?” (22) (breaker)
Their second and final top ten hit, peaking at number 8.

Peter Gabriel – “Sledgehammer” (15) (breaker)
Our first glancing shot of this celebrated video, the song peaked at number 4.

Spitting Image – “The Chicken Song” (11) (video)
About to pot themselves a number one.

Billy Ocean – “There’ll Be Sad Songs (To Make You Cry)” (27)
Another studio appearance from Billy who chalked up his ninth top twenty hit when this one peaked at number 12.

Falco – “Rock Me Amadeus” (1) (rpt from 03/04/86)
Finally pocketing the top spot, but only for one week.

Whitney Houston – “The Greatest Love Of All” (10) (video/audience dancing/credits)
Nudged up two more places.


May 15th is next, but it's another Mike Smith edition.

Sunday 23 September 2018

I'll Keep on Loving Top of the Pops

This edition of Top of the Pops from the first of May 1986 will not be shown on BBC4 because of the bizarre contract dispute with the estate of Mike Smith. So many thanks once again to Neil B for making it available here at WeTransfer.

Purple reign



01/05/86  (Mike Smith)

Maxi Priest – “Strollin’ On” (32)
Making his debut but the song got no higher.

Janet Jackson – “What Have You Done For Me Lately?” (3) (video/chart)
At its peak.

Princess – “I’ll Keep On Loving You” (24)
On her way to number 16.

Madonna – “Live To Tell” (4) (video)
Made it to number 2.

Depeche Mode – “A Question Of Lust” (28) (breaker)
At its peak.

Hear ‘N’ Aid – “Stars” (26) (breaker)
This heavy metal for Africa charity single went no higher.

Patti LaBelle & Michael McDonald – “On My Own” (19) (breaker)
Peaked at number 2.

Joyce Sims – “All & All” (25)
With her debut hit which peaked at number 16.

George Michael – “A Different Corner” (1) (video)
Third and final week at number one.

Level 42 – “Lessons In Love” (9) (video/audience dancing/credits)
Peaked at number 3.


Next up is May 8th.

Friday 21 September 2018

You and Top of the Pops Tonight

Just Say Yes! It's 24th April 1986 and time for the latest edition of Top of the Pops!

Just Say Zammo


24/04/86  (Janice Long & Dixie Peach)

The SOS Band – “The Finest” (17) 
Flying in to just be good to us with their second and final top twenty hit, which was already at its peak.

Grange Hill Cast – “Just Say No” (5) (video)
It got no higher.

Five Star – “Can’t Wait Another Minute” (8)
The suits were not the most flattering but the song went up one more place.

Princess – “I’ll Keep On Loving You” (26) (breaker)
Peaked at number 16.

Level 42 – “Lessons In Love” (23) (breaker)
Became their biggest hit when it peaked at number 3.

Madonna – “Live To Tell” (10) (breaker)
Peaked at number 2.

Aurra – “You & Me Tonight” (20)
Flying in from New Jersey to sing a live rendition of their only top 30 hit, which peaked at number 12.

George Michael – “A Different Corner” (1) (video)
Second of three weeks at number one.

Queen – “A Kind Of Magic” (3) (video/audience dancing/credits)
At its peak.


May 1st is next, but it's a Mike Smith edition.

Friday 14 September 2018

Train of Top of the Pops

All aboard! The 17th April 1986 edition of Top of the Pops is waiting for you at the station. Get your tickets ready!

Full steam A-ha!


17/04/86  (Gary Davies)

Big Country – “Look Away” (10)
Getting the show rolling down the tracks tonight are Big Country with their final top ten hit which peaked at number 7.

Falco – “Rock Me Amadeus” (3) (video/chart)
Slowly chugging closer to its number one destination.

A-ha – “Train Of Thought” (8)
They are back in the studio again but this song had come to the end of its line.

Suzanne Vega – “Marlene On The Wall” (27) (breaker)
Her debut top 40 hit, it peaked at number 21.

Grange Hill Cast – “Just Say No” (26) (breaker)
Zammo and the gang got as high as number 5.

Janet Jackson – “What Have You Done For Me Lately?” (16) (video)
On its way to number 3.

It’s Immaterial – “Driving Away From Home (Jim’s Tune)” (28)
Making their debut on the platform tonight with what was to be their only top 40 hit, peaking at number 18.

George Michael – “A Different Corner” (1) 
He's in the studio to perform his runaway hit, this being the first of three weeks at number one.

Whitney Houston – “The Greatest Love Of All” (33) (video/audience dancing/credits)
Our journey ends tonight with Whitney's third of 17 top ten hits, this one peaking at number 8.


Next stop is April 24th.

Monday 3 September 2018

Can't Wait Another Top of the Pops

This edition of Top of the Pops from April 10th 1986 will not be shown on BBC4 due to the weird contract dispute with Mike Smith, so a huge thanks goes to (I think!) Neil B for making it available here at WeTransfer.

Five starry starry night


10/04/86  (Mike Smith & Steve Wright)

Bronski Beat – “C’mon C’mon” (25)
Peaked at number 20.

The Art Of Noise & Duane Eddy – “Peter Gunn” (8) (rpt from 27/03/86 + chart)
At its peak.

Bryan Ferry – “Is Your Love Strong Enough?” (29)
Peaked at number 22.

Janet Jackson – “What Have You Done For Me Lately?” (37) (breaker)
Her debut hit and first of 17 top ten hits (but not a single number one).

Big Country – “Look Away” (18) (breaker)
Became their fourth and final top ten hit when it peaked at number 7.

Simple Minds – “All The Things She Said” (15) (video)
Peaked at number 9.

Five Star – “Can’t Wait Another Minute” (36)
Became the second of four top ten hits in 1986 for the group when it peaked at number 7.

Cliff Richard & The Young Ones – “Living Doll” (1) (video)
Third and final week at number one.

Queen – “A Kind Of Magic” (7) (video/audience dancing/credits)
Peaked at number 3.



Next up is April 17th.

Friday 31 August 2018

Top of the Pops = MC²

Get ready to wave your wands in the air for this wizard edition of Top of the Pops from April 3rd 1986!

Abracadabra!


03/04/86 (Janice Long & John Peel)

Big Audio Dynamite – “E=MC²” (20)
Peaked at number 11.

George Michael – “A Different Corner” (4) (video)
Became his second of seven number one hits.

A-ha – “Train Of Thought” (23)
Their third of eight top ten hits.

Paul Hardcastle – interview

The Real Thing – “You To Me Are Everything” (5)
Got to number one in 1976, but this re-mix was now at its peak.

Falco – “Rock Me Amadeus” (10)
Will get to number one next month!

Cliff Richard & The Young Ones – “Living Doll” (1) (video)
Second of three weeks at number one.

The Style Council – “Have You Ever Had It Blue?” (27) (video/audience dancing/credits)
Peaked at number 14.

April 10th is next but it's yet another Mike Smith one so won't be shown on BBC4.

Top of the Pops Darling

This edition of Top of the Pops from 27th March 1986 will not be shown on BBC4 due to the contract dispute with Mike Smith. I'm away this weekend but I'll post any available download link when I get back. In the meantime, here's the (almost) full show on Youtube.

And a huge thanks to Neil B for the WeTransfer download here

Big hits


27/03/86  (Bruno Brookes & Mike Smith)

Samantha Fox – “Touch Me (I Want Your Body)” (4)
Making her debut with her first of three top ten hits, this one peaking at number 3.

Atlantic Starr – “Secret Lovers” (24) (video/chart)
Their first of two top ten hit, this one peaking at number 10.

Tippa Irie – “Hello Darling” (33)
His only top 30 hit, peaking at number 22.

Bronski Beat – “C’mon C’mon” (40) (breaker)
Their final top 30 hit, peaking at number 20.

Big Audio Dynamite – “E=MC2” (34) (breaker)
Peaked at number 11.

Falco – “Rock Me Amadeus” (27) (breaker)
Will go all the the way to number one.

Queen – “A Kind Of Magic” (16) (video)
Peaked at number 3.

The Art Of Noise & Duane Eddy – “Peter Gunn” (12)
Became their second of three top ten hits when it peaked at number 8.

Cliff Richard & The Young Ones – “Living Doll” (1) (video)
First of three weeks at number one.

Stevie Wonder – “Overjoyed” (25) (video/audience dancing/credits)
Peaked at number 17.


Next up is April 3rd.

Thursday 30 August 2018

Hi Ho Top of the Pops

Away! The March 20th 1986 edition of Top of the Pops rides again!

Feeling flash


20/03/86  (Simon Bates & Janice Long)

Jim Diamond – “Hi Ho Silver” (5)
At its peak.

The Rolling Stones – “Harlem Shuffle” (13) (video/chart)
Also at its peak.

Pet Shop Boys – “Love Comes Quickly” (21)
This follow up to West End Girls peaked at number 19.

Stevie Wonder – “Overjoyed” (36) (breaker)
Peaked at number 17.

Siouxsie & The Banshees – “Candyman” (34) (breaker)
Got no higher.

Cliff Richard & The Young Ones – “Living Doll” (4) (video)
The first 'Comic Relief' single and it will be number one next week.

The Real Thing – “You To Me Are Everything” (19)
Another re-mix making the 1986 charts, this one peaking at number 5.

Diana Ross – “Chain Reaction” (1) (video)
Final week at number one.

Mr Mister – “Kyrie” (15) (video/audience dancing/credits)
Peaked at number 11.


March 27th is next but it features Mike Smith so will not be shown on BBC4.

Friday 24 August 2018

Digging Your Top of the Pops

This edition of Top of the Pops from March 13th 1986 will not be shown on BBC4 due to the contract dispute with Mike Smith. So a huge thanks goes to Robert Thompson for making it available here at WeTransfer.

And also thanks to D42 for making it available to stream here at Vimeo


The cut and blow dry monkeys


13/03/86  (Mike Smith & Steve Wright)

The Blow Monkeys – “Digging Your Scene” (20)
Their debut hit, it peaked at number 12.

Bangles – “Manic Monday” (2) (video/chart)
At its chart rundown peak.

Hipsway – “The Honeythief” (22)
Their only top 40 hit, it peaked at number 17.

David Bowie – “Absolute Beginners” (8) (video)
His final top ten hit of the 80's, it peaked at number 2.

Freddie Jackson – “Rock Me Tonight (For Old Time’s Sake)” (26)
His only top 20 hit, it peaked at number 18.

The Rolling Stones – “Harlem Shuffle” (27) (breaker)
Peaked at number 13.

Howard Jones – “No One is To Blame” (23) (breaker)
His final top 20 hit, it peaked at number 16.

Culture Club – “Move Away” (17)
Their final top ten hit of the 80's, peaking at number 7.

Diana Ross – “Chain Reaction” (1) (video)
Second of three weeks at number one.

Prince – “Kiss” (13) (video/audience dancing/credits)
Peaked at number 6.


March 20th is next.

Thursday 23 August 2018

Hounds of Top of the Pops

Had a rough day? Feeling hot under the collar? Well then, you'd have to be barking mad to miss this March 6th 1986 edition of Top of the Pops! Now sit!

Leading lady


06/03/86 (Gary Davies & Dixie Peach)

Mike & The Mechanics – “Silent Running (On Dangerous Ground)” (25)
The debut hit for this Genesis spin off band, featuring Phil Collins soundalike (and lookalike!) Paul Carrack on lead vocals and it peaked at number 21.

Tavares – “Heaven Must Be Missing An Angel” (12) (video/chart)
We interrupt this song to bring you the new chart rundown! Not one of the show's better ideas, and the song itself was now at its re-mixed peak.

Kate Bush – “Hounds Of Love” (18)
In the studio to perform the title track from her monster number one album, but this terrific single could get no higher than number 18.

Frank Sinatra – “Theme From New York New York” (10) (live clip)
It had peaked at number 59 when originally released in 1980, but this time around it made it to number 4, becoming Frank's eleventh of twelve top ten hits and his first top ten hit since 1969.

Jim Diamond – “Hi Ho Silver” (16)
The theme song from the tv series Boon, this was Jim's final hit, peaking at number 5.

Mr Mister – “Kyrie” (29) (breaker)
Their second and final hit, peaking at number 11.

Prince – “Kiss” (27) (breaker)
One of his most famous songs and videos, Kiss peaked at number 6.

Whistle – “(Nothing Serious) Just Buggin’” (14)
With their only hit, which peaked at number 7.

Diana Ross – “Chain Reaction” (1) (video)
First of three weeks at number one.

Huey Lewis & The News – “Power Of Love” (11) (video/audience dancing/credits)
It had peaked at number 11 less than a year before, this time around it made it to number 9 to become the band's only top ten hit.


March 13th is next but it's a Mike Smith edition so BBC4 will skip it.

Friday 17 August 2018

Top of the Pops Missile F1-11

The engine has ignited and it's time to launch the February 27th 1986 edition of Top of the Pops!

Testing, testing, one, two, three


27/02/86  (Paul Jordan & Steve Wright)

Sigue Sigue Sputnik – “Love Missile F1-11” (7)
Getting tonight's show off the ground with what was to be their only top ten hit when it reached its peak of number 3.

Talking Heads – “And She Was” (19) (video)
Another imaginative video and this time we get to see all the Heads rather than just David's, but this would be their final top 40 hit, peaking at number 17.

Audrey Hall – “One Dance Won’t Do” (27)
Her first of two top 20 hits, this one peaking at number 20.

Alexander O’Neal – “If You Were Here Tonight” (24)
With his first solo hit and it peaked at number 13.

Kate Bush – “Hounds Of Love” (26) (breaker)
Peaked at number 18.

Tavares – “Heaven Must Be Missing An Angel” (25) (breaker)
We saw it get to number 4 in 1976, this time around it made it to number 12.

Bangles – “Manic Monday” (10)
In the studio to perform their first of three top ten hits, this one peaking at number 2.

Billy Ocean – “When The Going Gets Tough The Tough Get Going” (1) (video)
Fourth and final week at number one.

Colonel Abrams – “I’m Not Gonna Let You” (29) (audience dancing/credits)
His final top 40 hit, peaking at number 24.

Next up is March 6th.