"Tropico," Pat Benatar's 1984 album, marked a pivotal shift in her career, fusing rock with new wave and synthesizers. The sixth consecutive Platinum-certified album in the U.S., it showcased Benatar's versatility and produced hits like "We Belong." The chart-topping success on the Billboard 200 solidified Benatar's position as an '80s rock icon, leaving a lasting legacy of artistic evolution and enduring influence.
In the vibrant landscape of 1980s rock music, Pat Benatar stood as a powerful force, her anthemic vocals and commanding stage presence solidifying her status as one of the era's leading rock figures. One of the pivotal moments in her career came with the release of "Tropico," her sixth studio album, in 1984. This 12" vinyl LP not only showcased Benatar's evolution as an artist but also marked another platinum milestone in her illustrious career.
The Road to Tropico:
Before diving into the creation of "Tropico," it's essential to understand the context in which Pat Benatar rose to prominence. Born in Brooklyn, New York, Benatar began her musical journey singing in various clubs before being discovered by Chrysalis Records. Her breakthrough came with the release of "In the Heat of the Night" in 1979, an album that featured hits like "Heartbreaker" and "We Live for Love."
Benatar's subsequent albums, including "Crimes of Passion" (1980) and "Precious Time" (1981), solidified her reputation as a rock powerhouse. By the time "Tropico" was conceived, she had firmly established herself as a force to be reckoned with in the music industry.
The Making of Tropico:
Released in 1984, "Tropico" showcased Pat Benatar's willingness to experiment with her sound while staying true to her rock roots. The album marked a departure from the hard-rock sound of her earlier work, incorporating elements of new wave and synthesizers, a prevailing trend in the '80s music scene. Benatar's versatility as an artist was on full display in "Tropico," and the album's sonic landscape resonated with both her existing fanbase and a new audience.
Notable Tracks:
"Tropico" boasted a collection of tracks that showcased Benatar's range and musical adaptability. The lead single, "We Belong," became one of her signature songs, reaching the top five on the Billboard Hot 100. The emotionally charged ballad struck a chord with listeners, capturing the essence of love and connection.
Other standout tracks include "Ooh Ooh Song," a catchy and upbeat anthem, and "Painted Desert," which featured Benatar's powerhouse vocals against a backdrop of atmospheric instrumentals. The album's diversity in sound and lyrical themes contributed to its critical and commercial success.
Chart-Topping Success:
"Tropico" proved to be a commercial triumph, earning Pat Benatar her sixth consecutive Platinum certification in the United States. The album peaked at No. 14 on the Billboard 200 chart, further solidifying her status as a chart-topping artist. The success of "Tropico" not only reaffirmed Benatar's position in the music industry but also showcased her ability to adapt to changing musical landscapes while staying true to her artistic vision.
Legacy:
Beyond its commercial success, "Tropico" remains a testament to Pat Benatar's enduring influence on the rock genre. The album marked a pivotal moment in her career, showcasing her evolution as an artist willing to explore new sonic territories. As we look back on the legacy of "Tropico," it stands as a timeless record that captures the spirit of '80s rock and the enduring talent of a music icon.
Music Genre: Hard Rock, Arena-Rock |
Album Production Information: The album: "PAT BENATAR - Tropico" was produced by:Neil Giraldo and Peter Coleman |
Record Label Information: Chrysalis 206 582 |
Packaging: This album "PAT BENATAR - Tropico" includes the original custom inner sleeve with album details, complete lyrics of all songs. |
Media Format: 12" LP Vinyl Stereo Gramophone Record Total Album (Cover+Record) weight: 230 gram |
Year & Country: 1984 Made in Germany / Holland |
Personnel/Band Members and Musicians on: PAT BENATAR - Tropico |
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Complete Track-listing of the album "PAT BENATAR - Tropico" |
The detailed tracklist of this record "PAT BENATAR - Tropico" is:
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High Quality Photo of Album Front Cover "PAT BENATAR - Tropico" |
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Album Back Cover Photo of "PAT BENATAR - Tropico" |
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Inner Sleeve of "PAT BENATAR - Tropico" Album |
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Photo of "PAT BENATAR - Tropico" Album's Inner Sleeve |
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Close-up Photo of "PAT BENATAR - Tropico" Record Label |
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Note: The images on this page are photos of the actual album. Slight differences in color may exist due to the use of the camera's flash. |
Pat Benatar is a renowned American rock singer who rose to fame in the late 1970s and early 1980s with a string of hit songs. With her powerful vocals and charismatic stage presence, she quickly became one of the leading figures in the rock music scene. Over the course of her career, she has released a number of successful albums, won numerous awards, and paved the way for other female rock artists.
Early Life and Career:
Pat Benatar, whose real name is Patricia Mae Andrzejewski, was born in 1953, in Brooklyn, New York. She grew up in a working-class family and began singing at an early age. She joined her first band, the Windstar, while in high school, and later performed with a variety of other bands in the New York City area.
In 1977, Benatar was introduced to producer and songwriter Mike Chapman, who helped her land a record deal with Chrysalis Records. Her first album, "In the Heat of the Night," was released in 1979 and included the hit songs "Heartbreaker" and "I Need a Lover." The album was a commercial success, and Benatar soon became a household name.
Musical Career:
Throughout the 1980s, Benatar continued to release successful albums and hit songs, including "Crimes of Passion," "Promises in the Dark," and "Love Is a Battlefield." She also collaborated with her husband, guitarist and songwriter Neil Giraldo, on many of her songs.
Benatar's music often dealt with themes of love, heartbreak, and female empowerment, and her powerful vocals and dynamic stage presence helped to inspire a new generation of female rock musicians. She was known for her tough, no-nonsense attitude and her willingness to push boundaries in a male-dominated industry.
Legacy and Impact:
Pat Benatar's impact on the music industry is still felt today. She has been credited with helping to break down barriers for women in rock music, and her success paved the way for other female artists to follow in her footsteps. She has won numerous awards throughout her career, including four Grammy Awards and multiple American Music Awards, and has sold over 30 million records worldwide.
Benatar has also been recognized for her philanthropic work, including her support of various charitable organizations and her advocacy for women's rights and LGBT rights.
Chrysalis 202 845 , 1980 , Germany & Netherlands
"Pat Benatar's 'Crimes of Passion' (1980) is a timeless rock masterpiece, her second album that solidified her status as a musical force. With hits like 'Hit Me With Your Best Shot,' the LP showcases Benatar's vocal prowess and bold sound. A defining moment in '80s rock, the album remains a classic, a testament to Benatar's enduring influence."
Learn moreChrysalis 207 429 , 1985 , Germany & Netherlands
"Pat Benatar's 'Seven the Hard Way' (1985) marks her seventh album in a prolific seven-year span. Fueled by dice-inspired symbolism, the LP captures Benatar's resilience and musical prowess. With hits like 'Invincible,' the album weaves a sonic journey, showcasing Benatar's indomitable spirit. A rock gem that solidifies her enduring impact, 'Seven the Hard Way' is a testament to her musical legacy."
Learn moreChrysalis 206 582 , 1984 , Germany & Netherlands
"Tropico," Pat Benatar's 1984 album, marked a pivotal shift in her career, fusing rock with new wave and synthesizers. The sixth consecutive Platinum-certified album in the U.S., it showcased Benatar's versatility and produced hits like "We Belong." The chart-topping success on the Billboard 200 solidified Benatar's position as an '80s rock icon, leaving a lasting legacy of artistic evolution and enduring influence.
Learn moreChrysalis 209146 , 1988 , Germany
"Pat Benatar's 'Wide Awake in Dreamland' (1988) stands as her final venture into rock music, concluding an era. With hits like 'All Fired Up,' the album embraces a blend of rock and pop influences. Reflecting the evolving sounds of the late '80s, it encapsulates Benatar's musical versatility. A poignant farewell to her rock roots, 'Wide Awake in Dreamland' remains a testament to her enduring artistry."
Learn more