We were first introduced to pop artist Rich Anthony back in the fall of 2021 when his track Don’t Ever appeared on our 50th Instant Music List. Today we’re taking a deeper dive into the work of this Illinois-based artist. A performer since his teenage years and a writer for over three decades, Rich is a seasoned professional whose ample experience radiates throughout his work.
Rich’s most recent project is an album titled Back to the 80’s. Off of that album comes the single Don’t Look Back, a song Rich originally wrote in its namesake decade and recorded in the early 90’s. This single is the epitome of throwback pop – it’s textured, danceable, and truly electric and fun at its core.
Don’t Look Back opens with instantly iconic 80’s synth tones, a familiar blend of crunchy distortion and bouncy melodic lines over driving percussion. It has a bright overall sound, making great use of layered vocals and a clear handle on effective production that allows the track to ebb and flow between peak intensity and something a bit softer. But it’s the chorus melody that is the definitive high point in this work – it’s an absolute earworm of a musical phrase that you’ll no doubt find repeating itself in your head long after the song has ended.
The lyrics in this single mirror the lighthearted, carefree energy that is ever-present in the instrumentation. Despite the retro themes within the music, the messaging in this song is all about looking forward, taking risks, and breaking out of old routines. It’s presented to us in a perfectly digestible, crystal clear format that makes it perfectly easy to understand:
“Don’t just watch the world go by
There is so much for you to do
Don’t keep doing the same routine
When you can do something new“
Fans of 80’s music have much to be excited about with this release from Rich Anthony. From the writing to the production to the performances, Don’t Look Back creates a compelling and inviting sense of nostalgia that will deeply resonate with those who appreciate this classic genre. Rich has set a high bar for himself and his upcoming album Back to the 80’s, but in the meantime, stream Don’t Look Back below to get your endlessly catchy and truly satisfying 80’s pop fix.
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BELOW: Listen to Don’t Look Back and connect with his website and social media platforms. Please support Rich Anthony by visiting him online, and playing, downloading, and/or purchasing his music, or attending a live show! And, as always, thank you for supporting real music!
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