Upcoming Foreigner release with Journey mention

[KenTheDude]

http://news.yahoo.com/s/nm/20090725/mus ... oreigner_1

Foreigner betting on Wal-Mart with new release

NEW YORK (Billboard) – Can Wal-Mart work its magic for yet another '70s rock act?

The retail giant's exclusive September 29 release of Foreigner's "Can't Slow Down" will be its first major exclusive since AC/DC's "Black Ice" in October. The album (Foreigner's first since 1995's "Mr. Moonlight") has much in common with Journey's 2008 Wal-Mart-only release, "Revelation." Like its predecessor, "Can't Slow Down" will be a three-disc set that features a CD of new material, a concert DVD and a best-of collection. But whereas "Revelation" included a CD of rerecorded Journey favorites, Foreigner remixed the band's original master recordings to make its hits sound more contemporary.

Perhaps most noticeable to longtime fans of both bands, each release features a replacement lead singer -- in Foreigner's case, Kelly Hansen, who takes the place of original frontman Lou Gramm.

Despite the absence of original Journey lead singer Steve Perry, "Revelation" sold 633,000 copies in the United States, according to Nielsen SoundScan. In its debut week that ended June 8, 2008, it sold nearly 105,000 copies, good enough to reach No. 5 on the Billboard 200 album chart. "Black Ice" sold 2.1 million U.S. copies, including 784,000 in its debut week that ended October 26, 2008.

It won't be easy for "Can't Slow Down" to match the success of "Revelation" or "Black Ice." During the past year, overall U.S. recorded-music sales have continued to tumble, with CD sales plunging 21.2 percent in the first half of 2009 from a year earlier.

And despite being a regular chart fixture in the '70s and '80s, Foreigner doesn't have a synch-licensing hit like Journey's 1981 single "Don't Stop Believin'," which has helped keep the band in the public eye through its use in hit movies and TV shows, most memorably the June 2007 series finale of HBO's "The Sopranos."

But Foreigner boasts its own potential source of hip cachet: founding guitarist Mick Jones' stepson, Mark Ronson. Ronson, who has collaborated with Amy Winehouse, Lily Allen and Kanye West and is a BRIT Award-winning performer in his own right, co-produced the new songs on "Can't Slow Down" with Marti Frederiksen.

Foreigner also has a catalog of hits that instantly register with fans, even if they don't remember who performed them. "When Foreigner played at the company's annual shareholders meeting, the band's (appeal) was reinforced by how much our associates loved it," said Wal-Mart senior music buyer Tom Welch.

"People know all of Foreigner's songs," the group's manager, Phil Carson, said. "But the band has so many hits -- nine top 10 hits and 16 top 30 -- they aren't aware that they are all by the same group ... With the album at Wal-Mart's entrance, we can get people to associate the band with their songs."

(Editing by SheriLinden at Reuters)

[Peartree12249]

http://news.yahoo.com/s/nm/20090725/music_nm/us_foreigner_1

Foreigner betting on Wal-Mart with new release

NEW YORK (Billboard) – Can Wal-Mart work its magic for yet another '70s rock act?

The retail giant's exclusive September 29 release of Foreigner's "Can't Slow Down" will be its first major exclusive since AC/DC's "Black Ice" in October. The album (Foreigner's first since 1995's "Mr. Moonlight") has much in common with Journey's 2008 Wal-Mart-only release, "Revelation." Like its predecessor, "Can't Slow Down" will be a three-disc set that features a CD of new material, a concert DVD and a best-of collection. But whereas "Revelation" included a CD of rerecorded Journey favorites, Foreigner remixed the band's original master recordings to make its hits sound more contemporary.

Perhaps most noticeable to longtime fans of both bands, each release features a replacement lead singer -- in Foreigner's case, Kelly Hansen, who takes the place of original frontman Lou Gramm.

Despite the absence of original Journey lead singer Steve Perry, "Revelation" sold 633,000 copies in the United States, according to Nielsen SoundScan. In its debut week that ended June 8, 2008, it sold nearly 105,000 copies, good enough to reach No. 5 on the Billboard 200 album chart. "Black Ice" sold 2.1 million U.S. copies, including 784,000 in its debut week that ended October 26, 2008.

It won't be easy for "Can't Slow Down" to match the success of "Revelation" or "Black Ice." During the past year, overall U.S. recorded-music sales have continued to tumble, with CD sales plunging 21.2 percent in the first half of 2009 from a year earlier.

And despite being a regular chart fixture in the '70s and '80s, Foreigner doesn't have a synch-licensing hit like Journey's 1981 single "Don't Stop Believin'," which has helped keep the band in the public eye through its use in hit movies and TV shows, most memorably the June 2007 series finale of HBO's "The Sopranos."

But Foreigner boasts its own potential source of hip cachet: founding guitarist Mick Jones' stepson, Mark Ronson. Ronson, who has collaborated with Amy Winehouse, Lily Allen and Kanye West and is a BRIT Award-winning performer in his own right, co-produced the new songs on "Can't Slow Down" with Marti Frederiksen.

Foreigner also has a catalog of hits that instantly register with fans, even if they don't remember who performed them. "When Foreigner played at the company's annual shareholders meeting, the band's (appeal) was reinforced by how much our associates loved it," said Wal-Mart senior music buyer Tom Welch.

"People know all of Foreigner's songs," the group's manager, Phil Carson, said. "But the band has so many hits -- nine top 10 hits and 16 top 30 -- they aren't aware that they are all by the same group ... With the album at Wal-Mart's entrance, we can get people to associate the band with their songs."

(Editing by SheriLinden at Reuters)

IMO no one "takes the place of" the wonderful Lou Gramm.

[JeremyP]

IMO no one "takes the place of" the wonderful Lou Gramm.

Agree. Kelly's a cool guy and a great singer but I miss Lou in Foreigner.

[portland]

IMO no one "takes the place of" the wonderful Lou Gramm.

Agree. Kelly's a cool guy and a great singer but I miss Lou in Foreigner.

Yeah well I miss Perry in Journey....

[KDOUBLEU]

IMO no one "takes the place of" the wonderful Lou Gramm.

Agree. Kelly's a cool guy and a great singer but I miss Lou in Foreigner.

Yeah well I miss Perry in Journey....

Yep and Yep.

[Don]

One big differences between the bands is that this will be Kelly's first true album with Foreigner despite having been the lead singer now for almost 5 years. I think the re-records on this album won't undergo the same scrutiny as Journey's did because a lot of the fans are already accustomed to seeing this lineup perform the last few tours. Kelly isn't coming out of nowhere like Arnel did. In fact, Hansen already had proffesional rocker experience with his stint in Hurricane and has always been around quality musicians.

[Peartree12249]

True, but as much as I miss them both, I'm just grateful for all the wonderful music they helped to create. No one can keep performing forever I guess.

[fightingilliniJRNY]

One big differences between the bands is that this will be Kelly's first true album with Foreigner despite having been the lead singer now for almost 5 years. I think the re-records on this album won't undergo the same scrutiny as Journey's did because a lot of the fans are already accustomed to seeing this lineup perform the last few tours. Kelly isn't coming out of nowhere like Arnel did. In fact, Hansen already had proffesional rocker experience with his stint in Hurricane and has always been around quality musicians.

The opening article makes it sound like these are actually re-mixes. It says that Foreigner remastered their original masters to "make its hits sound more contemporary."

Interesting, because I originally thought they were re-recorded as well. So it's actually not identical to Journey's 3-disc set apparently.

And in my opinion, it won't sell nearly as well as Revelation. Foreigner doesn't have the power as Journey.

[JRNYFan]

One big differences between the bands is that this will be Kelly's first true album with Foreigner despite having been the lead singer now for almost 5 years. I think the re-records on this album won't undergo the same scrutiny as Journey's did because a lot of the fans are already accustomed to seeing this lineup perform the last few tours. Kelly isn't coming out of nowhere like Arnel did. In fact, Hansen already had proffesional rocker experience with his stint in Hurricane and has always been around quality musicians.

The opening article makes it sound like these are actually re-mixes. It says that Foreigner remastered their original masters to "make its hits sound more contemporary."

Interesting, because I originally thought they were re-recorded as well. So it's actually not identical to Journey's 3-disc set apparently.

And in my opinion, it won't sell nearly as well as Revelation. Foreigner doesn't have the power as Journey.

Yeah, I thought that was interesting as well -- two discs with two different singers.

[fightingilliniJRNY]

One big differences between the bands is that this will be Kelly's first true album with Foreigner despite having been the lead singer now for almost 5 years. I think the re-records on this album won't undergo the same scrutiny as Journey's did because a lot of the fans are already accustomed to seeing this lineup perform the last few tours. Kelly isn't coming out of nowhere like Arnel did. In fact, Hansen already had proffesional rocker experience with his stint in Hurricane and has always been around quality musicians.

The opening article makes it sound like these are actually re-mixes. It says that Foreigner remastered their original masters to "make its hits sound more contemporary."

Interesting, because I originally thought they were re-recorded as well. So it's actually not identical to Journey's 3-disc set apparently.

And in my opinion, it won't sell nearly as well as Revelation. Foreigner doesn't have the power as Journey.

Yeah, I thought that was interesting as well -- two discs with two different singers.

Yep. I think that's more of "holding on to the legacy" than what people think Journey is/was doing.

"Here, buy our new album to check out our new singer! Oh by the way, if you don't like that here's the greatest hits with the singer you are familiar with."

[Don]

One big differences between the bands is that this will be Kelly's first true album with Foreigner despite having been the lead singer now for almost 5 years. I think the re-records on this album won't undergo the same scrutiny as Journey's did because a lot of the fans are already accustomed to seeing this lineup perform the last few tours. Kelly isn't coming out of nowhere like Arnel did. In fact, Hansen already had proffesional rocker experience with his stint in Hurricane and has always been around quality musicians.

The opening article makes it sound like these are actually re-mixes. It says that Foreigner remastered their original masters to "make its hits sound more contemporary."

Interesting, because I originally thought they were re-recorded as well. So it's actually not identical to Journey's 3-disc set apparently.

And in my opinion, it won't sell nearly as well as Revelation. Foreigner doesn't have the power as Journey.

It probably won't but I dont think Journey's next release will sell well either, maybe go Gold if they're lucky. Nothing to do with quality. The industry just seems bent more towards singles now. As Imentioned in another thread, A lot of Stars won't even go gold on their album sales but make up for it with two to three million downloads for individual tracks. Cyrus and Clarkston have multiple Top 10 hits but their album sales are not like the super star numbers of yesteryear. That one big single is what acts rely on now, not necessarily the multi-platinum album sales.
When it comes to touring, Foreigner does well it seems, despite not putting out new releases like Journey has done. I think for older melodic rockers, the need to release new material is very overrated and is more about scoring one last big payday rather then pushing the bands in a new direction.

[Carla777]

True, but as much as I miss them both, I'm just grateful for all the wonderful music they helped to create. No one can keep performing forever I guess.

that's right, that's why i prefer this bands continues rockin' with great singers such arnel and Kelly

[Rick]

True, but as much as I miss them both, I'm just grateful for all the wonderful music they helped to create. No one can keep performing forever I guess.

that's right, that's why i prefer this bands continues rockin' with great singers such arnel and Kelly

Absolutely. They draw big crowds that want to see and hear them. They would be nuts to quit. Brian Johnson included.

[Chubby321]

One big differences between the bands is that this will be Kelly's first true album with Foreigner despite having been the lead singer now for almost 5 years. I think the re-records on this album won't undergo the same scrutiny as Journey's did because a lot of the fans are already accustomed to seeing this lineup perform the last few tours. Kelly isn't coming out of nowhere like Arnel did. In fact, Hansen already had proffesional rocker experience with his stint in Hurricane and has always been around quality musicians.

The opening article makes it sound like these are actually re-mixes. It says that Foreigner remastered their original masters to "make its hits sound more contemporary."

Interesting, because I originally thought they were re-recorded as well. So it's actually not identical to Journey's 3-disc set apparently.

And in my opinion, it won't sell nearly as well as Revelation. Foreigner doesn't have the power as Journey.

Yeah, I thought that was interesting as well -- two discs with two different singers.

Yep. I think that's more of "holding on to the legacy" than what people think Journey is/was doing.

"Here, buy our new album to check out our new singer! Oh by the way, if you don't like that here's the greatest hits with the singer you are familiar with."

LOL, but it's really odd that they gonna do that.

[Don]

One big differences between the bands is that this will be Kelly's first true album with Foreigner despite having been the lead singer now for almost 5 years. I think the re-records on this album won't undergo the same scrutiny as Journey's did because a lot of the fans are already accustomed to seeing this lineup perform the last few tours. Kelly isn't coming out of nowhere like Arnel did. In fact, Hansen already had proffesional rocker experience with his stint in Hurricane and has always been around quality musicians.

The opening article makes it sound like these are actually re-mixes. It says that Foreigner remastered their original masters to "make its hits sound more contemporary."

Interesting, because I originally thought they were re-recorded as well. So it's actually not identical to Journey's 3-disc set apparently.

And in my opinion, it won't sell nearly as well as Revelation. Foreigner doesn't have the power as Journey.

Yeah, I thought that was interesting as well -- two discs with two different singers.

If they indeed do this, it might actually go over better with classic radio. Remixes of old songs might get some spin time especially on evening programs where they like to play album sides and such. It's a lot different than re-recording songs which sort of disqualifies them from being presented to listening audiences as classics.

[portland]

One big differences between the bands is that this will be Kelly's first true album with Foreigner despite having been the lead singer now for almost 5 years. I think the re-records on this album won't undergo the same scrutiny as Journey's did because a lot of the fans are already accustomed to seeing this lineup perform the last few tours. Kelly isn't coming out of nowhere like Arnel did. In fact, Hansen already had proffesional rocker experience with his stint in Hurricane and has always been around quality musicians.

The opening article makes it sound like these are actually re-mixes. It says that Foreigner remastered their original masters to "make its hits sound more contemporary."

Interesting, because I originally thought they were re-recorded as well. So it's actually not identical to Journey's 3-disc set apparently.

And in my opinion, it won't sell nearly as well as Revelation. Foreigner doesn't have the power as Journey.

Yeah, I thought that was interesting as well -- two discs with two different singers.

If they indeed do this, it might actually go over better with classic radio. Remixes of old songs might get some spin time especially on evening programs where they like to play album sides and such. It's a lot different than re-recording songs which sort of disqualifies them from being presented to listening audiences as classics.

I think it's a much better idea....although I don't think Perry would have been okay with it.

[Don]

This will be the Fifth Greatest Hits Compilation released by Foreigner in the last five years. One of them was a greatest hits live scenario but with Kelly on lead vocals instead of Gramm.

[RaisedOnRadio92]

This will be the Fifth Greatest Hits Compilation released by Foreigner in the last five years. One of them was a greatest hits live scenario but with Kelly on lead vocals instead of Gramm.

Bands rely too much on their old stuff to make them money now days. If you want money, make a CD and tour.

[JeremyP]

Bands rely too much on their old stuff to make them money now days. If you want money, make a CD and tour.

Then wait until word gets around that you don't play your old hits. Watch attendance drop.

That's what the majority of people come to hear and unless it's a home studio thing, making a record is expensive. What if it's a flop? No profit.

Best to stick to the tried and true hits of yesteryear if you're an older act concerned about the bottom line.


EDIT: Like your sig pic!

[RaisedOnRadio92]

Bands rely too much on their old stuff to make them money now days. If you want money, make a CD and tour.

Then wait until word gets around that you don't play your old hits. Watch attendance drop.

That's what the majority of people come to hear and unless it's a home studio thing, making a record is expensive. What if it's a flop? No profit.

Best to stick to the tried and true hits of yesteryear if you're an older act concerned about the bottom line.


EDIT: Like your sig pic!

I'm not saying quit playing your old hits in concert, but why keep releasing them in Greatest Hits packages? I think Journey's GH package from 88 was great, then in 2001 it was stellar with the 2 disc set. That package is actually what got me hooked on Journey. Then they re-did the 2001 GH package and added a THIRD disc with price tag of $15 at Wal-Mart.

That is how you sell Greatest Hits packages. If you are going to re-release it, add on to it.

[JeremyP]

I'm not saying quit playing your old hits in concert, but why keep releasing them in Greatest Hits packages? I think Journey's GH package from 88 was great, then in 2001 it was stellar with the 2 disc set. That package is actually what got me hooked on Journey. Then they re-did the 2001 GH package and added a THIRD disc with price tag of $15 at Wal-Mart.

That is how you sell Greatest Hits packages. If you are going to re-release it, add on to it.

I hate it when bands repeatedly release greatest hits compilations. I think they do it to keep themselves in the public eye and generate more revenue. I mean Foreigner could have gone, "New greatest hits? Meh, we have the one from '93 with three new songs". But it's not as if they can run commercials like, "In 1993 Foreigner released a collection of their all time biggest hits plus three new songs....it's still out there people....go get it." So they have to keep thinking of new ways to compile and package (mostly) the same stuff.

I think this is why a lot of older bands have multiple greatest hits compilations. Van Halen, Queen, Boston, Aerosmith, Journey, Skynyrd, Foreigner, REO...the list goes on.

I have vowed not to do this if my band ever makes it. We'll see how it goes. lol

I really think greatest hits albums should only be released as a bookend to a band's career. (Journey's in '88 after Perry left (as far as they knew at the time, that was it)...Queen's vol I and II in '91 (wasn't technically the end, but with Freddie's ill health, they knew it was impending)...Van Halen in '96 after Sam left/was fired...)


Obviously though, I'm in the minority.

[Duncan]

I'm not saying quit playing your old hits in concert, but why keep releasing them in Greatest Hits packages? I think Journey's GH package from 88 was great, then in 2001 it was stellar with the 2 disc set. That package is actually what got me hooked on Journey. Then they re-did the 2001 GH package and added a THIRD disc with price tag of $15 at Wal-Mart.

That is how you sell Greatest Hits packages. If you are going to re-release it, add on to it.

I hate it when bands repeatedly release greatest hits compilations. I think they do it to keep themselves in the public eye and generate more revenue. I mean Foreigner could have gone, "New greatest hits? Meh, we have the one from '93 with three new songs". But it's not as if they can run commercials like, "In 1993 Foreigner released a collection of their all time biggest hits plus three new songs....it's still out there people....go get it." So they have to keep thinking of new ways to compile and package (mostly) the same stuff.

I think this is why a lot of older bands have multiple greatest hits compilations. Van Halen, Queen, Boston, Aerosmith, Journey, Skynyrd, Foreigner, REO...the list goes on.

I have vowed not to do this if my band ever makes it. We'll see how it goes. lol

I really think greatest hits albums should only be released as a bookend to a band's career. (Journey's in '88 after Perry left (as far as they knew at the time, that was it)...Queen's vol I and II in '91 (wasn't technically the end, but with Freddie's ill health, they knew it was impending)...Van Halen in '96 after Sam left/was fired...)


Obviously though, I'm in the minority.

I agree entirely. There was a Queen Greatest Hits 3, which is total shite.

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