On July 25, 2015, I went to Vancouver Island to visit my dad. Not unlike most kids, I’ve been storing my beloved vinyl collection at my dad’s house for several years now. While there, I went through my collection and picked out 10 albums and brought them home.
One week later, on August 2, 2015, my dad’s house burnt down to the ground. My dad lost everything, including my albums.
August 2, 2015 - The horrific view as my dad watched his house - his life - go up in flames.
How often have we asked, “If you could take ten albums to a deserted island, what would they be?” Well, after choosing my ten albums pre-blaze, I wondered what made me choose these particular albums (out of literally hundreds of albums)? Subconsicously, had I chosen my top ten deserted island albums? Who knows. But here they are, in no particular order:
1. Zappacosta - Zappacosta
What can I say, ‘cept I love this guy. This album is definitely on my “Desert Island Top 10 Albums”. “Passion” - say no more.
2. Gino Vannelli - Black Cars
He’s a broody Canadian/Italian, and still rocks it! And I can still picture him cruising around in a black car with his shades on.
3. Paul Young - The Secret Association
Released in 1985 - the year I graduated from high school. To this day, each time I hear “Everytime you Go Away” (written by Darryl Hall), Paul takes a piece of me with him.
4. Michael McDonald - Sweet Freedom (12” Version)
Lisa and I cruised around my hometown listening to this song a lot. I’ve even refenced this song in my book (page 57). Shine sweet freedom, shine your light on me cuz if I’m ever stranded on a deserted island, I’ll need it to be rescued!
5. Bill Cosby - 200 M.P.H.
Despite Mr. Cosby’s now infamous reputation, this was my first comedy album, and to this day still remains my favourite.
6. Gary Numan - Replicas
I love Gary Numan! And I love this album! And while I love all the songs from this album, “Are ‘Friends’ Electric” would have to be my favourite.
7. Gary Numan - Telekon
I love Gary Numan! And I love this album! “Wreckage” will always remind me of driving the 12 km’s along the windy country road [of my hometown] to work.
8. Gary Numan - The Pleasure Principle
My first Gary Numan album. And yes, I love this album! Probably the most because it was my first (you never forget your first - Gary Numan album, that is!).
9. We Are The World
How could I not save "We Are The World"?
10. Fonzie Favourites
I had the privilege of meeting The Fonze back in 1995. He was as cool and classy off-screen as he was on. Then I found this album at a flea market. How could I resist? If you look closely, the back pops out so you can prop it up. Kitchy and fun!
Note: The original portion of my Barbra album collection was stored elsewhere and therefore spared the atrocity of the fire, but it’s worth noting I lost all my duplicates from my Barbra collection (which, as any collectors know, is equally as sad).
August 6, 2015
