Our goal for this collection is to tap into the commercial sounds of the 1980’s, particularly the Mainstream Rock and Adult Contemporary formats. The results are staggering.

The laundry list of credits for our first find is literally ridiculous. Bill Champlin is the namesake of legendary Bay Area Rock band and Capitol, Columbia and Ariola America recording artists Sons of Champlin. He was a member of iconic band Chicago, a hit songwriter and multiple Grammy award winner…. the list goes on and on. Champlin’s voice is synonymous with the rising popularity of the 1980’s Hot A/C sound. While building the Fervor collection, our jaws dropped when we randomly received a CD containing Champlin’s distinctive soulful vocals. Numerous phone calls and several months later, we are proud to exclusively share four songs with Champlin’s remarkable voice.

In 1981, famed film executive, record producer and artist manager William McEuen took a nomadic young songwriter/artist named Hans Olson under his wing. In short order, McEuen paired Olson with legendary guitarist Albert Lee, icon Al Kooper, and Van Morrison’s backup singers for a collection of recordings forever known as “The Aspen Tapes.” Upon hearing the sessions, Tom Fogerty of Creedence Clearwater Revival was so impressed he covered the song “Deal It Out” and titled his 1982 Fantasy Records release after it. The complete Aspen Tapes are contained within.

As the precursor to American Idol, Star Search launched the careers of many talented artists including Brittney Spears, Justin Timberlake and Alanis Morissette. Five time Star Search winners Brian Page & The Next exploded onto the Rock scene after entering the homes and hearts of millions of TV viewers. Also the winner of Budweiser’s National Battle of The Bands, Page signed with Chrysalis Records.

It’s all here for you on Fervor Records Mainstream Rock & Hot AC: 1980 – 1989. Enjoy!