In the 183rd edition of Throwback Vibez (2023), we recollect and reflect on “Maniac” by Michael Sembello.
The vibes, the vibes, those Throwback Vibez ! Throwback Vibez
is a column that celebrates awesome songs from the past. The records that grace this column are older, but that doesn’t necessarily mean that they’re ancient – no fossils
! All genres of music are welcome. In the 183rd edition of Throwback Vibez
(2023), we recollect and reflect on
“Maniac”, performed by
Michael Sembello.
“She’s a maniac, maniac on the floor / And she’s dancing like she’s never danced before.” Ooh-wee,
Michael Sembello!
“Maniac” was a huge song back in 1983 – an understatement. A no. 1 hit on the Billboard Hot 100 for two weeks, this highlight from Flashdance, which also appeared as the fifth track from Sembello’s album,
Bossa Nova Hotel, was nominated for a
Grammy and an Academy Award. Sembello penned “Maniac” alongside
Dennis Matkosky while Sembello produced alongside
Phil Ramone.
“Maniac” possesses a winning formula through and through. The production is characteristic of the 1980s. The groove is driving – electrifying from the opening tip. The palette of sounds includes synth drums (Carlos Vega), keys (Matkosky), and guitar and synth bass by Sembello. The guitar solo exemplifies the pop/rock sensibilities of the era. Vocally, Michael is exuberant, infusing ample personality into the tuneful melodic lines. “Locking rhythms to the beat of heart / Changing movement into light,” he sings in the first verse, adding, “She has danced into the danger zone / When the dancer becomes the dance.” Maniac, indeed! But just know, via the second verse, “It’s a push-shove world, but there’s always a chance / If the hunger stays the night.” WORD… I think.
“Maniac”, a big, cheesy 80s joint, remains among the most memorable songs of all-time four decades after its arrival.
Michael Sembello •
Bossa Nova Hotel •
Warner •
1983
Michael Sembello, Maniac: Throwback Vibez 
No. 183 (2023) [
: Brent Faulkner / The Musical Hype; Warner; John Alan Sperry, PIRO via Pixabay]