1984 Tail Swingers

In the Summer of 1984, I was playing farm during the day and spinning records in the bars and ball parks of Southwest Wisconsin by night. Late nights and early mornings would lead to a nap against a Holstein cow during dark early milkings. I would usually catch myself before tumbling over into the gutter. The cows would sometimes swing their soggy tails my way and keep me guessing. It was when I was trying to sing with the radio. The cows were like critics or something. They knew that burdocks in their tails were weapons that would make me stop in a hurry. In 1984 there were plenty of songs I could play at my dances or for the Bossie’s in the barn. It was prime time for 80’s music and MTV. Songs on the Top 40 survey in the early summer include The Reflex-Duran Duran, Dancing in the Dark-Bruce Springsteen, When Doves Cry-Prince, Borderline-Madonna, Legs-ZZ Top, The Heart of Rock and Roll-Huey Lewis and the News, Panama-Van Halen, and Magic-the Cars. This weekend on Those Were the Days I will take a look at that phenomenal playlist. On rainy days, I could go to Richland Center and buy new records and make awesome mix tapes for my new girlfriend and future bride June. What a fun summer it was on the old Willow Creek. I hope you will join me for the party Saturday night on WRCO FM 100.9, WRCO.com, or on the Civic Media app. Listen for the ‘Magic Cowbell’ which signals our hourly trivia games.

Hats off to our long-distance listeners that checked in last weekend. Including campers in Hudson WI, drivers along Lake Michigan, and Doug who checked in from Anchorage, Alaska. Let us know where you listen. I can’t wait for Saturday night!

Phil