The Top 20 Stock Aitken and Waterman Hits: A Journey Through Pop Music History

Join me, John Smith, as we embark on a journey through the captivating world of Stock Aitken and Waterman, the legendary music production team. In this article, we'll delve into their top 20 hits, each a testament to their unique style and undeniable impact on the pop music scene. From infectious pop anthems to soulful gems, we'll explore the diverse range of their discography and uncover the stories behind these iconic tracks. Get ready to reminisce and discover the magic of Stock Aitken and Waterman's musical legacy.

Unbeatable Provocation: 'I'd Rather Jack'

Explore the controversial hit 'I'd Rather Jack' and its audacious dismissal of music from the past.

'I'd Rather Jack' may not be considered a great record, but it stands as a mad act of provocation designed to upset as many people as possible in just three minutes. This iconic song dismisses not only Fleetwood Mac and the Rolling Stones but also Pink Floyd, heavy metal, and all 'music from the past.'

With its rebellious spirit and audacious lyrics, 'I'd Rather Jack' showcases Stock Aitken and Waterman's willingness to challenge the status quo and push the boundaries of pop music.

Bubblegum Soul: Sybil's 'When I'm Good and Ready'

Discover the fusion of pop house and bubblegum soul in Sybil's hit 'When I'm Good and Ready'.

'When I'm Good and Ready' by Sybil is a prime example of Stock Aitken and Waterman's ability to give their signature sound a sleek upgrade. This track blends pop house and bubblegum soul, creating a refreshing and infectious sound that captivated audiences.

The production style of 'When I'm Good and Ready' showcases Stock Aitken and Waterman's versatility and their ability to adapt to the evolving music landscape of the time.

Breaking the Mold: Stock Aitken and Waterman's 'Roadblock'

Explore the mid-tempo funk-infused hit 'Roadblock' as Stock Aitken and Waterman's response to critics.

'Roadblock' was conceived as a direct response to critics who claimed that all Stock Aitken and Waterman productions sounded the same. This mid-tempo track infused with funk elements proved them wrong and showcased the trio's ability to break the mold.

Contrary to the story that the initial anonymous 12-inch version was an old 70s rare groove track, 'Roadblock' was audibly made in the late 80s, solidifying Stock Aitken and Waterman's prowess in creating contemporary hits.

Sophisticated Soul: Brilliant's 'Love Is War'

Discover the soulful and sophisticated production style of Brilliant's 'Love Is War'.

Brilliant's album 'Kiss the Lips of Life' may have been a commercial flop, but 'Love Is War' remains a standout track. With its more sophisticated and US soul-inspired production style, it showcases a different side of Stock Aitken and Waterman's talent.

Despite receiving critical acclaim, 'Love Is War' did not achieve commercial success. This led Pete Waterman to prioritize financial stability over critical acclaim, highlighting the pragmatic approach of Stock Aitken and Waterman in the music industry.

Unexpected Collaborations: Morgan McVey and Neneh Cherry

Explore the unique collaboration between Morgan McVey and Neneh Cherry in 'Looking Good Diving with the Wild Bunch'.

'Looking Good Diving with the Wild Bunch' by Morgan McVey features an unexpected rap by Neneh Cherry, who would later polish and re-record the track as 'Buffalo Stance.' This collaboration showcases Stock Aitken and Waterman's influence on one of the coolest singles of the 80s.

The B-side version of 'Looking Good Diving with the Wild Bunch' featuring Neneh Cherry's rap adds a unique twist to the track and highlights the creativity and versatility of Stock Aitken and Waterman as producers.

Balearic Anthem: Mandy Smith's 'I Just Can't Wait'

Discover the unexpected transformation of Mandy Smith's 'I Just Can't Wait' into a Balearic anthem.

'I Just Can't Wait' by Mandy Smith took an unexpected turn when a remix of the track became a Balearic anthem. This remix, featured on the second release of Smith's debut single, stripped away most of her vocals and introduced an acoustic guitar solo, creating a sun-drenched and blissful sound.

The remix of 'I Just Can't Wait' showcases Stock Aitken and Waterman's ability to create diverse versions of a song, catering to different musical tastes and capturing the attention of a wider audience.