Fame Soundtrack CD
Fame.
1980, MGM.
Various Artists.
Polydor CD, 800 034-2
Rating: 
Alan Parker’s original movie set in and around the fictional School for the Performing Arts in New York may not have been as high profile as the television series based upon it but it remains far sturdier, filled with realistic performances. The music also manages to stand its ground, though you cannot help thinking that Parker and soundtrack Producer Christopher Gore could have made more out of it. The main theme tune performed by Irene Cara is an adrenalin-fuelled piece of guitar-led pop that captures perfectly the feel and mood of the movie. This is followed up with another strong performance by Cara on ‘Out Here On My Own’, a piano solo that reflects the films’ stripped back, raw quality. Other ballad’s on the album such as ‘Dogs In The Yard’, which runs as the lead characters receive their letters of acceptance and ‘Is It Ok If I Call You Mine’, both performed by Paul McCraine who plays Montgomery, are enjoyable if slight entries. ‘Red Light’, an upbeat disco number performed by Linda Clifford, which runs during the sequence when Leroy auditions for the entry exam, is a highlight, though when listening to the album as a whole is not representative. Other than the main theme, the most striking track on the album is ‘I Sing The Body Electric’; this track appears during the final sequence when the students are performing their end of year show and then again over the credits. An exciting ensemble number incorporating lead cast members and gospel choir, supported by piano, drums and tambourine, this ends the film on a high note. The choir also appear on another gem, the ebullient ‘Never Alone’. Though this album only runs to around half an hour and could have done with a more extensive track list, it remains a sign that Alan Parker never intended the film to be a musical, more a drama with music and this is how the soundtrack sits. In its favour, it is a varied and enjoyable sing-a-long listen.
Fame Movie Soundtrack. Review: Tim Mowbray.
Track Listing:
1. Fame
2. Out Here On My Own
3. Hot Lunch Jam
4. Dogs In The Yard
5. Red Light
6. Is It Okay If I Call You Mine?
7. Never Alone
8. Ralph & Monty (Dressing Room Piano)
9. I Sing The Body Electric
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