Top Ten Songs by Modern Talking

Modern Talking was a German duo made up of Thomas Anders and Dieter Bohlen. They have become the biggest selling act ever in Germany. Their style of music was often referred to as disco. Also it was known as Euro-dance or Euro-Disco or Dance-pop. However it might be called, it was pure energy. Modern Talking was mostly successful in Europe, Asia, and South America. Global sales have racked over 120 million units. Comparing their recording sales to other popular acts over the last 50 years, that is an incredible number.

They never gained popularity in the United States, Canada, or England. Modern Talking was together from 1984-1987 and again from 1998-2003. Dieter Bohlen did most of the composing and producing using intellectually formatted designs that were synthesizer-based. Along with moody lyrics, their sound was certainly disco-esque but also flavored with cultural flare. Anders was the main singer and the heartthrob of millions of female fans around the globe. The English versions of their music were extremely well articulated.

They often added five or six singers into the mix to record the higher pitched vocals. Most of their music was characterized by sweet melodies and vibrant rhythms. Since Modern Talking was rarely heard in the U.S., many people have probably never experienced their music in this country. While often simplistic and well crafted, this style of music had a short history in the U.S.; as disco faded from fad-ism in the early 80’s. To me, several Modern Talking songs are energetic and creative. I was never a fan of disco overall, but if I hear a song I like, I really don’t care how it might be classified. For sure, disco was a genre that held no middle ground. It was either greatly loved or widely despised and hated.

10. Witchqueen Of Eldorado. This is an interesting tune with an intro featuring the voice of Robert De Niro. The lyrics refer to the “Desert of Eldorado” and the “Orinoco Flow”, which is a reference to the river in Venezuela. This is a good, driving song with some great lyrical allusions to the fabled city. That is the mythical city of gold known as Eldorado.

9. Don’t Give Up. Airy and light. Fits right in with anything from 80’s pop. Simple lyrics that talk about finding love another day and dreams that keep on calling. From the “Let’s Talk About Love” album in 1985.

8. Sexy Sexy Lover. Fast paced and provocative. High energy dance tune. From 1999 but more of an Euro -Disco song. This is the typical stylish creation that was popular in many countries.

7. Mystery. Catchy song with Spanish, French and Latin color. It’s a stylish and sensual story about a lover in the past. “Marie amore, you’re the girl I adore.” Good lyrics, background vocals and guitar.

6. Cheri, Cheri Lady. Energetic song filled with good vocals and background harmonies. Easy flowing and likable. Lyrics are simple, as this number typifies much of pounding beat found in their music.

5. No Face No Name No Number. Spicy tune that features Spanish guitar and good rhythms. Fiercely energetic and filled with nice harmonies. It is found on the “Year of the Dragon” album. Forceful and uplifting, it is almost to simple with such a refined manner.

4. Atlantis Is Calling ( S.O.S. For Love). This song is totally synthesized in the style of the 1980’s. It is appealing if one likes music from that decade. I like the energy from this song and the high pitched vocals that are so apparent. The lyrics are fine and the tempo is well paced.

3. Jet Airliner. This song is creative and artsy with vibrant power. One of Modern Talking’s more masterful pieces from the 80’s. It is smooth sounding, an excellent dance tune, and synthesized with atmosphere. Somewhat complex lyrics that are hard to follow but voiced well by Anders.

2. You’re My Heart, You’re My Soul. Classic Modern Talking selection featuring solid vocals and driving rhythmic beat. It was an early smash hit back when 45 rpm singles were still selling. It sold over 8 million copies which rivals any single sold in the U.S. Romantical and vibrant in it’s expression using simple lyrics. This song hit number one in 35 different countries.

1. Geronimo’s Cadillac. This is a fantastic tune full of energy and resonance. It easily became my favorite with its hypnotic beat and synthesized harmonies. Contrary to information I discovered, I don’t believe this song has anything to do the the Apache Geronimo. The lyrics do not suggest anything of the kind. I just had to keep listening to this song and feel its verve. It is a rocking good tune and the best of the bunch. Who can deny Geronimo’s Cadillac?

Modern Talking has quite a presence on the Internet. They are still immensely followed in many countries around the world. However, they have been on separate paths musically for the last three years. You don’t sell over 100 million discs without creating a phenomenal presence in the music world. Everyone has their own favorite type of music, but when it comes to this genre, we in this country missed out on a fine act. Had Modern Talking enjoyed popularity in England and the U.S., they easily might have become one of the all-time best selling musical acts. When I need a quick jolt of energy to lighten my mood, listening to a few tunes by Modern Talking always does the trick.

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