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).
In the world of rock and roll history, certain albums stand out not only for their musical prowess but also for the stories woven around their creation and release. One such tale is that of Cinderella's debut album, "Night Songs," and the Dutch release that played a pivotal role in the band's rise to fame.
The Birth of Cinderella:
Cinderella burst onto the scene in the mid-1980s, at the height of the glam metal movement. The band, consisting of Tom Keifer (vocals, guitar), Eric Brittingham (bass), Jeff LaBar (guitar), and Fred Coury (drums), had a sound that blended bluesy hard rock with a touch of glam, making them a unique force in the burgeoning hair metal scene.
"Night Songs" Debut:
Released in 1986, "Night Songs" was Cinderella's inaugural album. It was a musical journey that showcased the band's raw energy, Keifer's raspy vocals, and a penchant for crafting anthemic rock ballads. The album's success can be attributed to the breakout hit "Nobody's Fool," which received substantial airplay on MTV and became a staple on rock radio.
Bon Jovi's Influence:
The album's fortunes were further propelled by a stroke of luck and collaboration. Cinderella found themselves on tour, not just with any band, but with rock legends Bon Jovi. At the time, Bon Jovi was riding the wave of their massively successful "Slippery When Wet" album. This tour exposed Cinderella to a wider audience, solidifying their presence in the competitive rock landscape.
The Dutch Connection:
Amidst this whirlwind of success, the Dutch release of "Night Songs" played a pivotal role in Cinderella's global conquest. The Netherlands has a rich history of embracing diverse music genres, and it was in this musical melting pot that Cinderella found an enthusiastic audience.
The 12" Vinyl LP Album:
Vinyl records were the dominant format during this era, and the 12" vinyl LP of "Night Songs" became a collector's item. With its larger-than-life cover art and pristine sound quality, the vinyl format added a tactile element to the musical experience that resonated with fans.
Collectors' Item Status:
The Dutch release of the 12" Vinyl LP Album not only marked a geographical expansion for Cinderella but also turned into a collectors' item over the years. The vinyl, with its distinctive Dutch markings, became a sought-after piece for fans and collectors alike, further cementing Cinderella's place in rock history.
Legacy:
As the years passed, "Night Songs" continued to be a beacon of Cinderella's legacy. The Dutch release of the album became a symbol of the band's international success and the impact of their music on a global scale.
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Notes: Night Songs 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). "Night Songs" went all the way to #3 on the US charts, and went double platinum (2 million copies sold) in that same country during the year. In 1991 it was certified triple platinum (3 million copies sold), proving that its commercial status hadn't shrunk. |
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Music Genre: Glam Rock / Glam Metal Music, Hair Metal |
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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. |
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Record Label Information: Mercury 830 076 |
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Media Format: 12" Vinyl LP Gramophone |
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Year & Country: 1986 Made in Holland |
Band Members and Musicians on: Cinderella Night Songs |
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Track Listing of: Cinderella Night Songs |
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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 ).
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.
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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