Cinderella's 1986 debut album, "Night Songs (USA)," marked their rise to glam metal stardom. Fueled by the hit single "Nobody's Fool" and strategic MTV airplay, the album soared to multi-platinum success. An opening slot on Bon Jovi's tour further propelled their fame, solidifying Cinderella as a defining force in 1980s rock.
In the world of rock history, certain albums stand out as pivotal moments that mark the emergence of new talent and the birth of iconic bands. Cinderella's debut album, "Night Songs," released in the USA, is one such milestone that catapulted the band into the rock and glam metal spotlight of the mid-1980s.
The Birth of "Night Songs":
Cinderella, a Philadelphia-based rock band formed in 1982, consisted of Tom Keifer (vocals/guitar), Eric Brittingham (bass), Jeff LaBar (guitar), and Fred Coury (drums). The band's early years were marked by club performances and a relentless pursuit of a record deal. Their breakthrough came when they signed with Mercury Records, paving the way for the creation of their debut album, "Night Songs."
Released in 1986, "Night Songs" marked Cinderella's grand entrance into the hard rock and glam metal scene. The album featured a potent blend of blues-infused rock, anthemic ballads, and Keifer's distinctive raspy vocals. The record was a sonic embodiment of the band's influences, ranging from classic rock to blues, delivered with a modern glam metal twist.
Nobody's Fool and MTV Airplay: The success of "Night Songs" can be attributed, in large part, to the single "Nobody's Fool." This power ballad, characterized by Keifer's soulful delivery and the band's melodic prowess, struck a chord with audiences. The accompanying music video received heavy rotation on MTV, introducing Cinderella to a vast audience hungry for the next big thing in rock.
MTV was a dominant force in shaping musical tastes in the 1980s, and Cinderella's strategic use of the music video medium helped propel "Nobody's Fool" and, by extension, "Night Songs" to commercial success. The band's visual appeal, coupled with their musical prowess, made them stand out in a crowded field of emerging rock acts.
Bon Jovi's Tour and Soaring Success:
Cinderella's trajectory to stardom gained further momentum when they secured the coveted opening slot on Bon Jovi's tour in support of the wildly successful "Slippery When Wet" album. This exposure to large audiences across the United States solidified Cinderella's reputation as a formidable live act, boosting the sales of "Night Songs."
The synergy between Cinderella and Bon Jovi was not only a testament to the camaraderie among bands but also a strategic move that strategically positioned Cinderella in the epicenter of the glam metal explosion. The tour's success, combined with the continued radio and MTV play of "Nobody's Fool," propelled "Night Songs" to multi-platinum status, with several million copies sold.
Cinderella's debut album "Night Songs" on 12" vinyl is a raucous hard rock experience that transports you back to the energetic hair metal scene of the 80s. The warm analog sound of the vinyl enhances the raw power of the band's performance, making it a must-have for any fan.
Here are some of the standout tracks that make this album a classic:
"Night Songs" : The album kicks off with the title track, a blues-infused rocker that showcases Tom Keifer's distinctive raspy vocals and the band's tight musicianship. The song's infectious energy and catchy chorus make it an instant classic.
"Shake Me" : This high-octane anthem is a pure adrenaline rush, with its driving rhythm, blistering guitar solos, and Keifer's passionate vocals. It's a track that demands to be played at maximum volume.
"Nobody's Fool" : A power ballad with a hard rock edge, this song showcases the band's versatility. Keifer's emotive vocals and the soaring guitar solos make it a highlight of the album.
"Somebody Save Me" : This bluesy rocker is another standout track, with its infectious groove and soulful vocals. The song's raw energy and emotional intensity make it a fan favorite.
Collectors information: This album "CINDERELLA - Night Songs (USA)" is Cinderella's debut album, which sold several million copies due to a combination of the single Nobody's Fool, MTV airplay, and an opening slot on Bon Jovi's tour (in support of their album Slippery When Wet). |
Music Genre: Glam Metal, Hair Metal |
Album Production information: Produced by Andy Johns. Management: Larry Mazer. Recorded at Bearsville Studios, Kajem Studios, Warehouse Studios, Sigma Studios and the Sound Factory. Mixed at the Record Plant, Los Angeles, CA. Assistant Sound Engineers: Mark McKenna, Joe Hauserman, Nick Didia, Paul Wertheimer, David Glover. Photography: Mark "Weissguy" Weiss. Mark Weiss (Nickname: Weissguy) is an acclaimed American rock and roll photographer who has captured the essence and energy of some of the most iconic moments in music history. With his keen eye for detail and ability to connect with his subjects, Weiss has become synonymous with the visual documentation of the rock and roll scene. Born and raised in New Jersey, Mark Weiss discovered his passion for photography at a young age. Inspired by the music culture of the 1970s, he set out to combine his love for music with his growing interest in photography. Armed with his camera, Weiss began attending concerts and local gigs, capturing the electrifying performances of emerging and established rock acts. In the late 1970s and early 1980s, Weiss's career gained momentum as he became the go-to photographer for many rock bands. He developed a reputation for his ability to capture the raw energy and charisma of the musicians, as well as the electric atmosphere of live performances. His photographs not only showcased the artists in their element but also transported viewers into the heart of the rock and roll experience. One of Weiss's most iconic collaborations was with the legendary rock band Bon Jovi. From the early days of their career, Weiss developed a close relationship with the band members and their management, which allowed him unprecedented access to document their rise to superstardom. His photographs became an integral part of Bon Jovi's image, capturing the band's infectious energy and forging a visual legacy that would endure for decades. Mark Weiss's work extended beyond Bon Jovi, as he photographed and developed relationships with numerous other rock icons. He captured the larger-than-life personas of artists such as Van Halen, Guns N' Roses, Aerosmith, and Motley Crue, among many others. Weiss's photographs adorned album covers, magazines, and concert posters, encapsulating the essence of the rock and roll lifestyle and contributing to the visual iconography of the era. Throughout his career, Weiss has exhibited a remarkable ability to connect with his subjects and gain their trust, allowing him to capture intimate and candid moments both on and off the stage. His photographs convey not only the spectacle of rock performances but also the humanity and vulnerability of the artists behind the scenes, creating a comprehensive visual narrative of their lives and careers. In addition to his work as a live music photographer, Mark Weiss has also ventured into other areas of the industry. He has directed music videos, designed album covers, and collaborated with various media outlets and galleries to showcase his extensive collection of rock and roll photography. His contributions have left an indelible mark on the music industry and continue to inspire new generations of photographers and music lovers. Mark Weiss's body of work represents more than just photographs. It is a testament to the power of visual storytelling and the profound impact that music can have on people's lives. Through his lens, he has immortalized the legends of rock and roll, providing fans with a glimpse into the exhilarating world of music and preserving the spirit of an era that will forever hold a special place in the hearts of fans around the world. |
Record Label Information: Mercury 422-830-976 |
Media Format: 12" LP Vinyl Stereo Gramophone Record Total Album (Cover+Record) weight: 230 gram |
Year & Country: 1986 Made in USA |
Personnel/Band Members and Musicians on: CINDERELLA - Night Songs (USA) |
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Complete Track-listing of the album "CINDERELLA - Night Songs (USA)" |
The detailed tracklist of this record "CINDERELLA - Night Songs (USA)" is:
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Note: The photos on this page are taken from albums in my personal collection. Slight differences in color may exist due to the use of the camera's flash. Images can be zoomed in/out ( eg pinch with your fingers on a tablet or smartphone ).
1986 MERCURY Records, Dark Grey background colouzr, 422 830-076-1 M-1 , 1986 Polygram Records, Inc-
Cinderella was a hard rock band that gained popularity in the late 1980s and early 1990s. The band's original lineup consisted of Tom Keifer on lead vocals and guitar, Eric Brittingham on bass, Jeff LaBar on guitar, and Fred Coury on drums. They were known for their bluesy, guitar-driven sound, and their energetic live performances.
Cinderella released their debut album, "Night Songs," in 1986, which included hits like "Shake Me" and "Nobody's Fool." The album was a commercial success, reaching #3 on the Billboard 200 chart and being certified triple platinum. The band's follow-up album, "Long Cold Winter," was released in 1988 and featured the hit single "Don't Know What You Got (Till It's Gone)." The album also featured a more blues-influenced sound and showcased Keifer's exceptional vocal range.
Cinderella's third album, "Heartbreak Station," was released in 1990 and continued the band's success. The album included hits like "The More Things Change" and the title track "Heartbreak Station." However, the band's popularity began to wane as the 1990s progressed, and they released their final album, "Still Climbing," in 1994.
Despite their commercial decline, Cinderella remained a beloved band among their fans and continued to tour throughout the 2000s. However, the band's original lineup never reunited, and in 2017, Keifer released a solo album called "The Way Life Goes."
In addition to their music, Cinderella was known for their distinctive image. The band's look was inspired by glam and heavy metal, with Keifer often wearing a top hat and scarf, and the rest of the band wearing leather and spandex. The band's music videos also featured the band in various glamorous and theatrical settings.
Mercury 888 812 (88812) , 1987 , Netherlands
Cinderella's "The Live E.P." 12" vinyl album encapsulates the raw energy of the American glam metal band during a 1987 Philadelphia performance. The recording immortalizes the band at their zenith. In the vinyl resurgence, this live gem has become a sought-after collectible, offering fans an authentic, tactile experience of Cinderella's electrifying stage presence.
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White Label Mercury 834 612 , 1988 , Netherlands
Cinderella's 1988 album "Long Cold Winter" marked a transformative moment for the band, transitioning from glam metal to a blues-infused sound. Overcoming challenges during recording, including Tom Keifer's vocal cord issues, the album's lead single "Gypsy Road" and power ballad "Don't Know What You Got (Till It's Gone)" propelled Cinderella to commercial success.
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Polygram
"Cinderella's 1986 debut album, 'Night Songs,' became a rock classic. The limited edition Picture Disc 12" Vinyl added a visual dimension to the auditory experience, featuring captivating artwork on each side. With timeless tracks like 'Shake Me' and 'Nobody's Fool,' this collector's item stands as both a musical gem and a visual masterpiece, preserving the magic of '80s glam metal in a tangible and cherished form."
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Mercury 422-830-976 , 1986 , USA
Cinderella's 1986 debut album, "Night Songs (USA)," marked their rise to glam metal stardom. Fueled by the hit single "Nobody's Fool" and strategic MTV airplay, the album soared to multi-platinum success. An opening slot on Bon Jovi's tour further propelled their fame, solidifying Cinderella as a defining force in 1980s rock.
Learn more
Mercury 830 076 , 1986 , Netherlands
Night Songs is Cinderella's first(debut album, which sold several million copies due to a combination of the single Nobody's Fool, MTV airplay, and an opening slot on Bon Jovi's tour (in support of their album Slippery When Wet).
Learn more