Song#: 0583
Date: 05/02/1981
Debut: 94
Peak: 53
Weeks: 14
Genre: Pop, Novelty
Pop Bits: Ohio-born musician Dolce moved to Australia after he hit 30 and has remained there since. Soon after his move he released his first solo recording, a protest tune about the treatment of Vietnamese refugees called "Boat People," and developed a one-man performance show. This second single he recorded was inspired by his Italian grandparents back in Ohio. He funded the single and a video for the song himself and it became an unexpected hit in Australia hitting #1 for eight weeks. The song became a hit in other countries like Germany, Canada, and New Zealand. In the US, it didn't seem to translate as well and it only made it about halfway up the chart. But it didn't matter as the single sold millions worldwide. It would be his only US chart entry and his only major hit outside of Australia. Dolce has continued to record music over the years, including setting many classic poems to music. He has also become a prize-winning poet and essayist.
ReduxReview: I don't know if this song is considered offensive these days or enhancing a stereotype or what. I just know that I'm not a fan. Maybe certain folks can relate to it and I guess that is fine. I find it kind of annoying.
ReduxRating: 2/10
Trivia: While still in Ohio, Dolce was a member of the group Headstone Circus. Another member of the group was Jonathan Edwards who would go on to be a one hit wonder in 1971 with his #4 song "Sunshine."
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