Remember when compilation albums were all the rage? One iconic series that stands out is Now That’s What I Call Music! From its humble beginnings in the UK in 1983 to its current status as a pop music institution, Now has captured the hearts and ears of millions. Let’s take a trip down memory lane and explore the fascinating journey of this beloved franchise.
Table of Contents
A Reluctant Beginning
In the late 90s, Harvey Danger, the alt-rock band responsible for the hit single “Flagpole Sitta,” was faced with a decision. They were offered a spot on the first American volume of Now That’s What I Call Music! but declined. The band members were afraid of being pigeonholed as one-hit wonders and felt overexposed. Little did they know that their song would become a part of pop music history.
A Snapshot of Pop Culture
Now That’s What I Call Music! Volume 1 burst onto the scene in the US on October 27, 1998, and immediately became a chart-topping success. From Janet Jackson’s “Together Again” to Marcy Playground’s “Sex & Candy,” this compilation captured the essence of the late 90s music landscape. The tracklist was a delightful mix of genres, with Aqua’s “Barbie Girl” rubbing shoulders with Radiohead’s “Karma Police” – a true slap in the face to conventional expectations.
Growing and Adapting
Fast forward to 2018, and Now is celebrating its 20th anniversary with two new releases: Now 68 and Now That’s What I Call Music! 20th Anniversary, Vol. 1. These albums showcase the latest chart-topping hits as well as fan favorites from previous volumes. Now has kept up with the times, embracing streaming platforms like Spotify while continuing to release physical CDs that cater to a loyal fan base.
The Art of Curation
Behind the scenes, Now’s Chief Operating Officer, Jerry Cohen, and producer Jeff Moskow are the masterminds responsible for crafting each album. Every song is carefully selected, taking into account licensing, label considerations, and even the tempo of the tracks. The goal is to create a cohesive listening experience that feels curated and flows seamlessly from one song to the next.
A Nostalgic Journey
Now That’s What I Call Music! has become a time capsule, chronicling the pop music landscape of its time. For many artists, being featured on a Now album is a badge of honor, a snapshot of their moment in the spotlight. Yet, for some, it also symbolizes the fleeting nature of fame and the challenges of sustaining success.
The Future of Now
As streaming services dominate the music industry, Now faces new challenges. However, with its reputation for delivering the best of the best in pop music, its presence is unlikely to fade away. For music lovers who still enjoy the convenience of physical CDs, Now continues to offer a family-friendly pop entertainment package, ready to be enjoyed on road trips or at home.
So, whether you’re a longtime fan or just discovering the magic of Now That’s What I Call Music!, embrace the nostalgia and celebrate the enduring legacy of this iconic compilation series. And remember, you can always find more fascinating articles like this on 5 WS – your go-to source for informative and entertaining content.
