A-Bomb or Cherry Bomb: Ten Top John Mellencamp Songs

80's sensation John Mellencamp has joined Prince and a handful of other artists, voicing his opinions against the internet. In fact, Mellencamp (otherwise known as Johnny Cougar, John Cougar or John Cougar Mellencamp, depending on the album) even went so far as to say that the internet is the most dangerous thing invented since the atomic bomb. In a recent interview, he spoke about the comparative lack of quality between a CD and an iPod track, and said that the internet will bring about the end of rock 'n' roll as many of us know (and love) it.

John Mellencamp has long been one of my favorite artists for several reasons - not only does he produce good quality music, but he also does so without the use of all the synthesizers and electronic equipment that became so popular during the 80's. With John Mellencamp, it's all about classic, bare bones rock 'n' roll and you really have to respect that.

If you like good old classic rock and aren't afraid to sing along with some 80's hits, be sure to give these popular Mellencamp songs a listen.

10 Top John Mellencamp Songs

I Need a Lover - This one was released in 1978 and 1979 on his "Biography" and self-titled (John Cougar) albums. While it only reached the 28th spot on American charts, you have to respect a song with classic lyrics like, "I need a lover who won't drive me crazy." Who hasn't echoed that sentiment a few times in their lives?

Hurts So Good - This was one of 3 major hit singles from the "American Fool" album, released in 1982. Then performing as John Cougar, this great rock tune rocketed up to the number 2 position on Billboard and opened many eyes to this talented new singer.

Jack and Diane - According to Mellencamp, this song was written after he watched the 1961 movie, "Splendor in the Grass," starring Natalie Wood and Warren Beatty. While John Mellencamp claimed this was a difficult record to make and finds the arrangement 'weird,' this song rocketed up the charts and remains one of his most memorable songs to date.

Pink Houses - Inspired by an old black man that Mellencamp saw sitting on the porch of a shotgun house, one day, Pink Houses was originally used by Sen. John McCain during his 2008 presidential campaign. When John Mellencamp learned of this, he contacted the campaign and asked them to stop playing his music. I consider this one of Mellencamp's best songs and one that really hits home with me and my love of nostalgia.

Authority Song - Authority Song wasn't one of my favorite tunes when it first came out but, over time, it grew on me. From his 1984 "Uh-Huh" album, this one only made number 15 on the American charts, but it's an unforgettable song that quickly gets stuck in the head.

Small Town - Earning Mellencamp the title of "champion for small-town America," this song was an anthem for any of us that grew up in a small town (and for those of us who wish we could go back).

R.O.C.K. in the U.S.A. (A Salute to '60's Rock) - This song is often mistakenly called "Rocking in the USA," but if you want a great rock song that makes you want to sing along, R.O.C.K. in the U.S.A. is certainly it. With a catchy beat and great lyrics, it's a song that really makes the listener want to jump to their feet, fist-pump and chant along.

Paper in Fire - Paper in Fire wasn't one of Mellencamp's biggest hits, but it's a great tune that always gets me rocking along with it. The harmonica really adds something to this song and turns something good into something great. While I never learned the history behind this song, it's always spoken to me about people who expect too much - while it's good to reach for your dreams, it reminds us that sometimes they aren't reliable and it's all over in a flash.

Cherry Bomb - Another great song about reminiscing about the good old days, Cherry Bomb is a hot tune with a really great beat and lyrics that hit home for many listeners who are creeping up on that "middle-aged" mark.

Walk Tall - An anti-Bush-administration song, Walk Tall is a great song with really powerful lyrics. While Mellencamp has written a lot of songs with a political/activist twist, this remains one of my favorites. I believe the lyrics sum up the power in this song, politics aside: "Bigotry and hatred are enemies to us all. Grace, mercy and forgiveness will help a man walk tall." It's a good message for everyone to carry in their hearts, regardless of their political views.

While I have to say that I agree with John Mellencamp and many other artists who believe that modern technology is destroying much of what we used to love about classic rock recording artists, I don't believe that rock 'n' roll is truly dead. Hopefully people will shrug off the synthesized voices and computerized instruments and turn back to the great days when musicians had to grind and claw and jam their way to the top. Keep the faith... rock will persevere.

Sources:

Personal Experience

http://www.mellencamp.com - Lyrics and discography details

http://www.billboard.com - Discography details