Cheap Trick Part 2

In Part 2 of our Cheap Trick review we pick up in 1979 with the band deciding to record a live album while on tour in Japan to support their third album Heaven Tonight.  The decision to record a live album to capture the mania surrounding the band in Japan proved to be career changing.  At Budokan, originally slated for release in Japan only, changed the fortunes of Cheap Trick from opening act and small venue headliner to arena kings.  Seemingly overnight, Cheap Trick became a household name in their home country on the strength of their first major hit “I Want You To Want Me.”  

We explore the significance of At Budokan and discuss the absolute brilliance of one of the best live rock albums ever recorded.  From there, Cheap Trick recorded the hit album Dream Police.  Leaving the 70’s, Cheap Trick created a legacy of 4 classic studio albums and 1 all-time great live album.  The early to mid 80’s would not be as successful for the band as they experienced some commercial disappointment.  Then out of nowhere in the late 80’s, Cheap Trick climbed again to the top of the world with a batch of pop songs that would put them back in the forefront.  Many bands get one shot at superstardom and then fade away.  Cheap Trick had two separate runs at superstardom.  Although their music output of the 90’s and 2000’s has not been as commercially successful, the band continue to record and make relevant music.  

We wrap up Part 2 with our personal Top 10 songs by Cheap Trick.  While many of our choices are predictable, you will want to hang around for the end for some surprises (and maybe some songs you were not familiar with).  Enjoy Cheap Trick Part 2 as we celebrate one of the best rock bands America ever produced.

Intro music provided by Joe Giddings

"#1" from Star Collector's album Songs For The Whole Family