"When She Dances" by Joey Scarbury

Song#:  0775
Date:  10/10/1981
Debut:  80
Peak:  49
Weeks:  9
Genre:  Pop



Pop Bits:  After the surprise #1 success of "Theme from 'Greatest American Hero' (Believe It or Not)," Scarbury quickly cobbled together an album called "America's Greatest Hero" to capitalize on the single's success. This follow-up single from the album just didn't catch fire like the TV theme and it fizzled before reaching the Top 40. It would be Scarbury's final chart single and his only full album release.

ReduxReview:  I think the problem with this follow-up is that it is nothing like the pure pop of "Believe It or Not." It has a more laid back blue-eyed soul feel that doesn't really go with the previous song's straight-ahead pop/rock sound. If I had heard this back in the day, I probably would not have guessed the song was by Scarbury. When a quickie album is pulled together like this, it doesn't usually work in favor of the artist. They don't have time to establish their sound or an identity and it all ends up a little messy and inconsistent. The same thing would happen soon for another artist with an unexpected hit - Michael Sembello and his "Maniac." These are talented folks who, if given time, might have come out with something solid. But labels will push for product while things are hot and the artist usually ends up with a one-and-done deal. Ah well. I guess having one big hit is better than none at all.

ReduxRating:  5/10

Trivia:  Included on the "America's Greatest Hero" album was a song called "Take This Heart of Mine." It was written by an up-and-coming musician who would would have his own chart hits in a few years - Bruce Hornsby.

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