Blue hotel - Chris Isaak

'Blue hotel' was a track from Chris Isaak's self-titled second album. Released in 1987, the single peaked at number 31 in the Netherlands. In the UK, the single only charted after the success of 'Wicked game' in 1990. It was re-released in 1991, and then reached number 17 in the UK singles chart.

I've always thought that the lyric 'Life don't work out my way' was one of the best lines in pop. I think it's also a universal truth.

My collection: 7" single no. 2620
Found: February 24, 1996
Cost: 2 guilders
Tracks: 'Blue hotel' / 'Waiting for the rain to fall'

Wicked game - Chris Isaak

Chris Isaak recorded 'Wicked Game' for his third studio album 'Heart shaped world'. Despite being released as a single in 1989, it didn't become a hit until it was later featured in the David Lynch film 'Wild at heart'. This single is the latter release, with an instrumental track by Angelo Badalamenti - also from the film - on the B-side. Part of the success can also be attributed to the music video, directed by Herb Ritts, featuring a topless Helena Christensen.

The single went to number 10 in the UK and number 5 in the Netherlands. It also become Chris Isaak's only American hit single, peaking at number 6 in the US Billboard Hot 100.

My collection: 7" single no. 1380
Found: Free Record Shop, Den Haag, February 9, 1991
Cost: 6 guilders
Tracks: 'Wicked game' (Chris Isaak) / 'Cool cat walk' (Angelo Badalamenti)

Heart full of soul - Chris Isaak

Chris Isaak was born on June 26, 1956. In 1984, he signed a recording contract and released his debut album 'Silvertone'. His second album, 'Chris Isaak' was released in 1986 and contained the single 'Heart full of soul'. This track was written by Graham Gouldman and originally recorded by the Yardbirds.

I bought my copy of the single while visiting a record shop together with two friends. They thought my choice was excellent, since the single was so unknown - it had not been a hit in the Netherlands.

My collection: 7" single no. 1692

Found: Groningen, August 7, 1992

Cost: 4 guilders

Tracks: 'Heart full of soul' / 'You took my heart'