Knee Deep in the Hoopla cover

Knee Deep in the Hoopla

Starship · 1985

40 min · 9 tracks · new wave

Anthemic rock melodies intertwine with synth-driven hooks, capturing the pop sensibilities of the mid-1980s.

Why this album works

This album is notable for its massive hit 'We Built This City,' which topped the Billboard Hot 100 chart, sparking debates about commercialization in music. Additionally, it exemplified the shift towards a more polished, radio-friendly sound that characterized many rock bands in the mid-1980s.
Best for
steady melodic journeys reflective evening listening emotional lyrical connections
Context
Released on September 10, 1985, 'Knee Deep in the Hoopla' marked Starship's commercial peak following their transition from Jefferson Starship. The album came after the success of their earlier hits and established them firmly in the pop-rock landscape of the 1980s.
Stylistic neighbors
Duran Duran· A Flock of Seagulls· Roxy Music

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 We Built This City Standout 4:53
  • 2 Sara Standout 4:48
  • 3 Tomorrow Doesn’t Matter Tonight Standout 3:41
  • 4 Rock Myself to Sleep 3:24
  • 5 Desperate Heart 4:04
  • 6 Private Room 4:51
  • 7 Before I Go 5:11
  • 8 Hearts of the World (Will Understand) 4:21
  • 9 Love Rusts 4:57

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata