Breathe--The Ministry The entire soundtrack of Pink Floyd: The Wall--Pink Floyd Silent Running--Mike & the Mechanics Paint it Black--Rolling Stones Dragula--Rob Zombie Half Light--Low, Tomandandy (from The Mothman Prophecies) Enter Sandman--Metallica Steven--Alice Cooper Joan Crawford--Blue Oyster Cult Where the Wild Roses Grow--Nick Cave & Kylie Minogue
What a humble man Mr. Parker appears to be. "It's not about the fame or the money, it's about seeing the kids smile". That surpasses it all." I am impressed, not only with his music, but with the man himself. Good job on both counts.
I remember going to the theater to see ghost busters in high school. The crowd was younger kids mainly. When that song came on, those kids were nuts. Standing on their seats, screaming the lyrics. One of the things about this song that wasn't mentioned was the video was out on MTV a few weeks before the movie debuted - which allowed everyone one to yell "Ghost busters!" in all the right places. To this day, it is the wildest thing I have witnessed in a theater. Like the man said, the kids were happy.
The Ghostbusters Theme is one of those classic Gen X songs. Definitely generation defining! Ray Parker Jr also had a group called Raydio back in the day. They had one or two songs that hit the charts but Ghostbusters is definitely his claim to fame.
A Woman Needs Love is actually Jack and Jill part 2, but from a woman’s (Jill’s) standpoint. They connected the 2 songs with this pre-chorus/bridge: “Now, an example to you Is by the time poor Jack Returned up the hill: Somebody else Had been loving Jill” Pure genius!
Ray Parker, Jr was a much sought after session musician during the late 70s/ early 80s along. One of Lukathers buds. He was also responsible for hundreds of hit songs, writing and playing.
Wow...didn't realize the complexity that Ray put into the song...probably because the layers worked so smoothly! Thanks for our Halloween Treat, P.O.R.!!!!
Agree 💯!! Who would’ve known that he used complex Music theory to create that guitar riff, & the rythm… and every other element that goes into a Great song.
This was a fun & happy video! My son was a preschooler when the movie came out. He was constantly wearing a Ghostbusters outfit that he put together himself. It brings back memories of an innocent, sweet, happy time in our lives.
I was a weird kid and really didn’t care for the song but as an adult guitar player I just used your video to learn a very cool funky rhythm - Love it!
I always thought that the song was a somewhat silly title tune for a comedic movie. It fit well. Now, years later, the song is still popular and has surpassed the movie itself. Clearly, Ray Parker is the kind of musician who does not need to tell you how good he is. He lets his work speak (and rather loudly) for him. So, if you need a hit tune, WHO YA GONNA CALL, (shouted>>>) Ray Parker. ;-)
I disagree with your assessment of how popular the movie would have been without that song. The song certainly didn't hurt but the movie stands on its own merit.
Wow! Another great musical lesson by the professor. I love pausing the video when you bring up something new, such as the collaboration with Martin Page and Bernie Taupin. I had no idea of “we built this city” and “these dreams” being penned by those two… Great musical lessons as taught by the professor!!! Great musical rabbit holes to go down into!! 🎶🎶🎶🎶🎶🎶🎶🎶🎶🎶🎶🎶
Another one of those timeless songs and it's good to see Ray Parker Jr. I remember he also had a number of good R and B songs in the 1980s. Makes perfect sense that the song came together after watching a pest control commercial because technically that's what the Ghostbusters were!
Shortly after the film's release, Huey Lewis sued Ray Parker Jr. for plagiarism, alleging that Parker had copied the melody (primarily the bassline) from Lewis's 1983 song "I Want a New Drug".[7][9] The case was settled out of court in 1985 for an undisclosed sum and a confidentiality agreement that prohibited discussion of the case. According to Parker, there were several lawsuits at the time, because "when you sell that many records, I think everybody wants to say that they wrote the song."[9][10] Parker later sued Lewis for breaching the confidentiality agreement in a 2001 episode of VH1's Behind the Music by reasserting that Parker stole the song. Regarding his case against Lewis, Parker said, "I got a lot of money out of that."[9] In a 2004 article for Premiere magazine, the filmmakers admitted to using the song "I Want a New Drug" as temporary background music in many scenes. They also noted that they had offered to hire Huey Lewis and the News to write the main theme but the band had declined. The filmmakers then gave film footage, with Lewis's song in the background, to Parker to aid him in writing the theme song.[11]
Now that you mention it I remember this. From what I gather from this Huey Lewis sued got his day in court and got his just due. That's all well in good, however he should of kept his mouth shut and sounds like he got what he deserved in the end.
From the very first time I heard Ghostbusters the similarities jumped out at me and I could never listen to GB after that; always switched stations (and I'm not even a big fan of Huey.) In this case though, I feel the filmmakers are really to blame. They should have removed Huey's music from the footage they gave to RPJ. Too bad Huey broke the confidentiality agreement; that was a costly mistake.
Damn, the Prof has the best job in the world. To be there and to see Mr Parker play that rift must have been amazing. Damn I wish I could’ve been there for that interview.
"Bustin' makes me feel good!"😂 Ray Parker Jr doesn't get enough credit or recognition, so thanks for doing a video on him (and Boston's Bobby Brown!) What a great surprise, stories from these two artists. Ghostbusters and 1984, I'm ded (as the kids say today). "I ain't afraid o' no ghost." Happy Hallows Eve, y'all.👻
I wonder what the Ghostbusters' theme song would sound like if it was made today. If Ray Parker Jr. is like most folks, he no longer watches COMMERCIALS during shows. He'd have to look elsewhere for inspiration. Young kids who grew up watching programs uninterrupted will disagree, but I miss some of those classic commercials!
In 1983, big-name songs for big-name motion pictures ... it looked like it *might* become a cliche. That because everyone would be doing it, we'd start to lose interest ... that it would lose its niche with listeners. "Ghostbusters" was something ambitious, different, and downright refreshing. It did a lot of what many movie songs never did before. And it did so without driving away potential listeners. It instead drew them in. And the sharp, snappy lyrics keep it from losing its charm over the years. Every time I heard the song in the 1980s, it always blew me away. Great interview, great video, great upload. Thanks for this and many other uploaded treasures. B-)
@@NeversurrenderMM66He was asked to write something similar so he did. The intention was to get clearance from Huey Lewis but someone at the studio dropped the ball. Whoops! The settlement fell apart when Huey discussed the terms in an interview. Now all royalties flow to Ray Parker Jr. again.
I've listened to both songs a lot. They are not the same. The rhythm is similar, and there are some similarities in chords. However, that can be said of a lot of music. If Huey had gone to court he would have lost.
I'm sure Mr Parker would have loved the Huey Lewis shirt LOL! So timely... I was parking my car at the grocery store last night and it hit me that "Mr Telephone Man" and "A Woman Needs Love" were the same song, then I realized Ray Parker Jr wrote both of them... 🤣
@@ProfessorofRock It's crazy I forget, then I get reminded every so often when my kids ask me stuff like "Was this popular a long time ago? Why does it sound like the Jackson 5?" 🤣
This was one of the most enjoyable episodes yet! Just FUN. I legit LOL'd at the clips from the video, especially Ray physically spinning Bill Murray around on the ground so he could "breakdance." 😂😂😂
What an absolutely delightful interview! What a great guy; outsourcing the chorus 😀 And yes, you got me, I did think Ray Parker Jr was Lando Calrissian for the longest time (that photo comparison made me feel somewhat vindicated).
I was never a big Ray Parker Jr fan, although I did like him. This interview changes my view a bit. He seems to be the kind of guy I'd want to hang out with ☺ Obviously I have Ghostbusters on my Halloween playlist but also On Our Own 😊 I'm a preschool teacher and I play both of those for the kids all season long. It never fails to move them to get down and jam and we all shout "Ghostbusters!" during the chorus😂 It really does transcend ages!
That was one of the best interviews with Ray and Bobby!! Ray remembered every detail of the making of this all time classic,from the concept to the sound to the recording. This is the song and the movie we can all pass down to our kids and grandkids and they will love it. I still see ghost busters costumes every Halloween. Great episode professor and happy Halloween 👻
I love that both of them are more proud that the next generation are loving the song and the movies than they are about the fame it brought them. That's some humility.
What a treat! So much talent featured in this episode-- the musicians involved as well as our humble host. The professor has a great way of touching upon the nuances that make this iconic song so good-- pointing out the call-and-response aspect, for instance, you can tell that Ray appreciated his musical scholarship. I love that 'Lando Calrissian has a song!' bit-- I think I made the same connection too at first because to my 10-year old self those guys looked so much alike. Bobby Brown was an unexpected bonus-- it's like getting a regular candy bar in your bag instead of the snack size. Bobby took the ball and ran with it in the same spirit as Ray. After the difficult years that followed it is great to see him smiling and happy while recalling his cameo and time on set. That both men take the most joy in making kids happy and their own children proud of their dads, that is nothing you will get by just analyzing their individual successes or chart rankings. Thanks again, Adam-- Happy Halloween everyone!
This song takes me back to when I was 8 years old and going to Skate Plaza Roller Rink. They would project videos onto this huge wall in the rink. I can still remember the pumping stereo system and the sound of all the arcade machines. Ah, great memories.
If you were a kid in the 80's roller skating rinks and arcades definitely bring you back to some fun childhood memories. I wonder how many first kisses took place in roller rinks back in the 80's throughout the USA? Mine certainly did lol. Those were the days trying to find enough courage up to ask a girl you had a crush on to skate couples only.Man those certainly were the days.I am certain you remember so many People's names that you met in your youth at the skating rink and wonder what happened to them or if there even alive. I wish kids today could get back to doing things the way we did before in our youth. It would definitely help to keep them out of trouble. I feel technology has had a big impact on kids life's today it's a damn shame.
I bought the single, loved the film, loved the song. My 10 year old loved it too, I have memories of him singing the song at 3, only his version was Ghostmusters as he couldn’t get the busters but right. Good song, but what an amazingly positive person Ray Parker Jr is, an absolute pick-me up video after work.
Adam, I've said it before . . . and I'll say it again the 80s where the modern Renaissance for movies and music. I don't think we'll ever see a more magical time
I was 10 years old in 1984 and enjoyed Parker’s previous stuff and was somehow cynical at that age to imagine he was far above this “silly” material. As I matured and became a musician myself (hobbyist), I knew better. Now, hearing this interview I’ve even more respect for him. Thank you for these enlightening interviews! Parker is a true professional and class act through and through! 🙂
I think I watched the video of the film(vhs) about 15 - 20 times if not more. But favourite line from the picture is when Sigourney Weaver is turned into the hell hound, and Bill Murray cracks the line 'so she's a dog'.....gets me everytime, and want to say it to the girl that wouldn't go with you, when you were a teenager. 😅😊 it's a happy movie
Seriously Adam, 1984 was an absolutely amazing year for all those reasons you mentioned. I was a 15 yr old kid in Tucson- all those incredible new things. MTV, the Sony Walkman, we could go to the video rental places and rent any movie we wanted to. Those great cars of the 60s and 70s were dirt cheap. You could still get a brand new car for $5k... Those were the days huh? In another 20 - 30 yrs, will anyone look back to now and say that same thing? I honestly doubt it... And how much worse would it have to be for that to happen???😮 Anyway, cheers to you for yet another gem and the trip down memory lane ❤
Loved this song as a kid! I remember going with my grade 6 class in 1984 to see Ghostbusters at the local cinema in small town Australia. Magical movie and song! Loved the video clip too!
Great interview!!! I graduated in 1984. And that movie just blew up. We had a traveling barrel painted with the logo and would date it with every keg it held. It was a badge of honor to have the Ghostbusters keg barrel at your party for yrs to come
Thanks for the upload. I think I have more of an appreciation for this song after watching this than I did when it originally came out. His comments about Stevie Wonder were very touching as well.
My buddies and I argued if he was or was not the guy from Star Wars. We argued and argue about it, but eventually I was able to prove my case that indeed they were not the same guy. Though I had to wait will Return of the Jedi was released onto video. Which was quite a few years later. I remember calling up my friend and saying he had to pay up. He had forgotten the bet, but a bet was a bet and that slice of pizza, which was what the bet was for, was the best slice I had ever had in my life. You haven’t lived until you have had a slice of Paisano’s pizza. Plus the drink, best damn Coke too. Lol
Very cool to see an interview with RPJ ... such a talented musician. Hope we'll get to hear him discuss some of his other hits sometime in the near future!
Fun Fact: one of the many artists who took a stab at the Ghostbusters theme before Parker was duo Hughes/Thrall, comprised of ex-Deep Purple and Trapeze singer/bassist Glenn Hughes and former Pat Travers guitarist Pat Thrall. The demo is on RUclips and while not the classic Parker's became, hearing the Voice of Rock singing about ghostbusting is an absolute delight. Happy Halloween!
@@ProfessorofRock RUclips seems to be blocking all links. Best I can give you is the video title: "1983 Ghostbusters Theme (Demo) - Hughes/Thrall & Peter Aykroyd." And yes, that's Dan's brother who I believe lent a hand in writing lyrics.
I have heard some of the backstory on the "Ghostbusters" theme, but this was a fun interview from the man himself, Ray Parker Jr. Personally, I was never a big fan of the song as I found it kind of silly. But it fit the movie. The movie was kind of silly, it was fun and really funny. I was in HS in 1984, so I loved through it. The movie was a huge hit (my favorite film from that year was "The Terminator") as was the song. And, yeah, 1984 was a year full of iconic movies and songs.
I had the OST cassettes of GB & GB2, they got played to death. Thanks for covering this Prof, going to go have a listen online to them now. Ahhhh memories of childhood 🧛♂😱💀👻
I was 14 when the movie came out and the video premiered on MTV. You couldn't go anywhere without hearing the song on the radio, at the mall, on TV, or even at school. Talk about a culture phenomenon...😊
I was 13. 80s were great and so thankful to grow up then after seeing today. My kids are jealous after watching stranger things. The fun, freedom,and better school atmosphere! And better music! My 17yo loves VH, AC-DC, Crue, poison, Zeppelin
It's a classic movie and a timeless song. I have video of my 2 year old daughter saying "Ghostbusters!" when I asked her "Who ya gonna call?" My kids and I would roll down the windows on the car and sing/shout those 2 lines as we were driving along whenever the song would come on. Just fun memories. Doesn't get much better.
I vividly remember the Sunday that the Ghostbusters theme took the number one spot on AT40. “When Doves Cry” was my first favorite song at the time and had been sitting on top for 5 weeks. I remember actually being in tears over it and if you can believe it I actually hated the Ghostbusters theme for a good while for dethroning Prince! Looking back now of course all I can do is fondly remember that time as that summer of 1984 was probably one of the greatest times in pop music history. Great interview by the way!!
I love the song Ghostbusters , I love hearing the story about it. I also love the movie. I remember going to the movies and seeing it and eating candy.
Great Music that made a Great Movie greater. Ghostbusters: a fantastic story, a perfect cast, and the absolute best music - The silly Incidental Music, the characters' Leitmotifs, and of course, the Theme song. Thank you, Ray... oh... 1984 also gave us Amadeus. 1984 was truly the best year.
I watched that movie so many times when I was a kid. I practically had every line memorized!!! Thank you for bringing back wonderful memories POR!!! I love watching the videos you make!!!!
Love, love, love this song! It simply exemplifies the hopeful innocence of being young in the mid-eighties! And, yes, I totally agree 1984 is a watershed year in popular culture. When I think of my all-time favorites, a disproportionate number of them are anchored in 1984.
Everything I could say about this song or GB has already been said, so i will only mention is one of my most played songs. it´s simply awesome. I don´t like people calling this nostalgia, because it´s not. the song is awesome as you have already presented and it has become timeless.
Professor of Rock, I love how you make each song you cover seem like the greatest song ever written but it doesn't come off as phony. You find what's great about that song.
If you remember waking up in the morning and enjoying a bowl of Ghostbusters cereal while watching your favorite Saturday morning cartoons, you're gonna dig this channel.
Parker is amazing. What I remember most about this song, is that it's very similar to I want a new drug. As you noted, they settled out of court. So Huey got paid twice.
I usually listen to your shows while I work or drive but when I heard RPJ's voice I had to stop and watch. It's not enough just to listen to him after seeing his infectious smile. It's impossible not to like him.
GREW UP IN THE 80'S AND THIS WAS AN AWESOME SONG!!!! AT THE CLUB WE SCREAMED "GHOSTBUSTERS!!!!!" AH, THE TIMES WERE GREAT THEN!!! MISS THOSE DAYS!!! :)
1984!! Best year EVER! I was 12 years old. I was about to enter junior high that fall. I was infatuated with football. 1984 was a great year to be a sports fan. The Olympics were in Los Angeles and I remember LA being "dressed up" for the Olympics. I remember watching Ghostbusters in the theater with a good friend of mine. I bought the soundtrack at Kmart. Take me back to 1984 please!!
A great tune great show. I was in my teens when it came out. I brought the limited edition 12" Green slime version and still have it, it's on my wall. Also brought Ray's Album Chart Busters.
I remember seeing that in theaters when I was a kid. If you told me then that I would end up acting in a movie with Ernie Hudson, I wouldn't believe you, but it happened. I spoke with him at the crafts table between scenes about how much of an impact his films had had on my childhood. They were part of why I wanted to become an actor. I love all the Ghostbusters movies, including the all female one. Can't wait for the new one.
Ghostbusters, the movie, is one of the most brilliant comedy movies ever made! Every single actor was spot on in their performances, in their parts, their delivery. It is as near perfect a work of genius as man can make and one can laugh at! And laugh I did! All that being said, it is the Ghostbusters theme casting threads throughout the movie, like a spider web, that brings it all together. I cannot hear that song and not see a gigantic Mr. Staypuff Marshmallow Man stomping through Manhattan! Ray Parker, one of the many amazing musicians to come out of Detroit, created the perfect theme for that movie! There's something about Detroit that breeds musical genius, and Mr. Parker proves that!
I remember when this song & music video came out! I would wait for the end of the clip so I could call out the names of the stars saying "Ghostbusters". I didn't know them all - I was an Aussie teenager & I'd never seen some of those people - but out of my family I knew the biggest number! 😁 FYI - I STILL don't know them all almost 40yrs layer! 😂😂
I went to see Ghostbusters in the theater with my older sister and her boyfriend and the whole experience just blew me away. But right off the bat when that song came on it was just perfect. That was the greatest time to be a 14 year old kid. That whole year just felt fresh and new. And the vibe kept going when a year later Back to the Future came out and when I was going into the theater I ran into my mom and dad leaving the previous showing and thought wow it's cool how my dad never stopped dating my mom after they got married and had two kids.
I first heard this when I took my son to a Halloween Party at the O Club Sub Base Bangor. Even though it was played incessantly I couldn't get enough of it. I knew I had to see the movie after that.
I wrote a post about this song that went live the same day as this video! This song is utterly brilliant, and I love that you talked to Bobby Brown about the remix for Ghostbusters 2 (which is one of my all-time favourite soundtracks). Thanks for going deeper.
Poll: Happy Halloween! What is the SCARIESt song of the rock era?
Thriller -- Michael Jackson.
Mr Soul Buffalo Springfield
"Dead Man's Party" by Oingo Boingo
Breathe--The Ministry
The entire soundtrack of Pink Floyd: The Wall--Pink Floyd
Silent Running--Mike & the Mechanics
Paint it Black--Rolling Stones
Dragula--Rob Zombie
Half Light--Low, Tomandandy (from The Mothman Prophecies)
Enter Sandman--Metallica
Steven--Alice Cooper
Joan Crawford--Blue Oyster Cult
Where the Wild Roses Grow--Nick Cave & Kylie Minogue
Iced Earth - Damien...inspired from the movie "The Omen" it's pretty scary wicked good
What a humble man Mr. Parker appears to be. "It's not about the fame or the money, it's about seeing the kids smile". That surpasses it all." I am impressed, not only with his music, but with the man himself. Good job on both counts.
He’s my kind of guy! Unselfish and honest.
@@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980 Seems to be walking the right path in life.
He's so honest he stole from another band !
Ray really seems to be a great guy.
didn't he steal this from Huey Lewis ? the News doesn't like Mr Parker to much..
I remember going to the theater to see ghost busters in high school. The crowd was younger kids mainly. When that song came on, those kids were nuts. Standing on their seats, screaming the lyrics. One of the things about this song that wasn't mentioned was the video was out on MTV a few weeks before the movie debuted - which allowed everyone one to yell "Ghost busters!" in all the right places. To this day, it is the wildest thing I have witnessed in a theater. Like the man said, the kids were happy.
The Ghostbusters Theme is one of those classic Gen X songs. Definitely generation defining! Ray Parker Jr also had a group called Raydio back in the day. They had one or two songs that hit the charts but Ghostbusters is definitely his claim to fame.
I loved his hits with Raydio
I remember You Can’t Change That and A Woman Needs Love.
@@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980and Jack and Jill
I liked how he took a nursery rhyme ("Jack and Jill") and turned it into a song about infidelity.
A Woman Needs Love is actually Jack and Jill part 2, but from a woman’s (Jill’s) standpoint. They connected the 2 songs with this pre-chorus/bridge:
“Now, an example to you
Is by the time poor Jack
Returned up the hill:
Somebody else
Had been loving Jill”
Pure genius!
1984 was such a great year for music and movies. Ghostbusters is one of the most memorable and iconic.
1984 is the greatest year ever!
Ray Parker, Jr was a much sought after session musician during the late 70s/ early 80s along. One of Lukathers buds.
He was also responsible for hundreds of hit songs, writing and playing.
Really? Odd that I had absolutely no idea about that and I'm aware of such things. More research to do. Thanks.
Do not forget Raydio.
Ray Parker Jr is still a legend in the music industry who people look up too.
I did the research and you weren't kidding. He has an amazing musical bio. Played with everybody. Thanks again.
He had multiple hits with his own band Raydio. I practically grew up on You Can’t Change That.
Huey Lewis shirt eh? I see what you did there Prof 😏
Me too. LOLOL
Don't tell anyone.
Wow...didn't realize the complexity that Ray put into the song...probably because the layers worked so smoothly! Thanks for our Halloween Treat, P.O.R.!!!!
You bet!
It’s an easy hook but musically complex. Happy Halloween 🎃
Agree 💯!!
Who would’ve known that he used complex
Music theory to create that guitar riff, & the rythm… and every other element that goes into a
Great song.
This was a fun & happy video! My son was a preschooler when the movie came out. He was constantly wearing a Ghostbusters outfit that he put together himself. It brings back memories of an innocent, sweet, happy time in our lives.
I was a weird kid and really didn’t care for the song but as an adult guitar player I just used your video to learn a very cool funky rhythm - Love it!
Cool!
Musicians like Ray are rare. Soo talented, no ego and a great interview.
I always thought that the song was a somewhat silly title tune for a comedic movie. It fit well. Now, years later, the song is still popular and has surpassed the movie itself.
Clearly, Ray Parker is the kind of musician who does not need to tell you how good he is. He lets his work speak (and rather loudly) for him.
So, if you need a hit tune, WHO YA GONNA CALL, (shouted>>>) Ray Parker. ;-)
Surpassed the movie? You think?
I don't think the movie would have been as big without the song. Every time I hear the first few notes I get a smile on my face.
So true.
It’s one of those songs you know instantly.
I disagree with your assessment of how popular the movie would have been without that song. The song certainly didn't hurt but the movie stands on its own merit.
Wow! Another great musical lesson by the professor. I love pausing the video when you bring up something new, such as the collaboration with Martin Page and Bernie Taupin. I had no idea of “we built this city” and “these dreams” being penned by those two… Great musical lessons as taught by the professor!!! Great musical rabbit holes to go down into!! 🎶🎶🎶🎶🎶🎶🎶🎶🎶🎶🎶🎶
The same guy who wrote with Elton John!
@@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980
Beatles fans may take issue, but Bernie Taupin COULD BE the greates rock lyricist of all time.
Another one of those timeless songs and it's good to see Ray Parker Jr. I remember he also had a number of good R and B songs in the 1980s. Makes perfect sense that the song came together after watching a pest control commercial because technically that's what the Ghostbusters were!
The American Top 40 Casey Kasem channel on iHeart Radio has been playing the countdowns with "Ghostbusters" at #1 a lot lately. 😎
Where can I hear those? Is there a mobile app?
@@ProfessorofRockiHeart Radio.
1st interview I have ever seen with Ray Parker Jr.
This put a smile on the face.
Ray Parker Jr is a class act. Very down to earth and humble. Great musician
Me too. I just love the guy.
He’s a thief. He stole Huey Lewis’s song.
Shortly after the film's release, Huey Lewis sued Ray Parker Jr. for plagiarism, alleging that Parker had copied the melody (primarily the bassline) from Lewis's 1983 song "I Want a New Drug".[7][9] The case was settled out of court in 1985 for an undisclosed sum and a confidentiality agreement that prohibited discussion of the case. According to Parker, there were several lawsuits at the time, because "when you sell that many records, I think everybody wants to say that they wrote the song."[9][10] Parker later sued Lewis for breaching the confidentiality agreement in a 2001 episode of VH1's Behind the Music by reasserting that Parker stole the song. Regarding his case against Lewis, Parker said, "I got a lot of money out of that."[9]
In a 2004 article for Premiere magazine, the filmmakers admitted to using the song "I Want a New Drug" as temporary background music in many scenes. They also noted that they had offered to hire Huey Lewis and the News to write the main theme but the band had declined. The filmmakers then gave film footage, with Lewis's song in the background, to Parker to aid him in writing the theme song.[11]
I remember hearing about this!
Now that you mention it I remember this. From what I gather from this Huey Lewis sued got his day in court and got his just due. That's all well in good, however he should of kept his mouth shut and sounds like he got what he deserved in the end.
From the very first time I heard Ghostbusters the similarities jumped out at me and I could never listen to GB after that; always switched stations (and I'm not even a big fan of Huey.) In this case though, I feel the filmmakers are really to blame. They should have removed Huey's music from the footage they gave to RPJ. Too bad Huey broke the confidentiality agreement; that was a costly mistake.
Ahh I can't imagine this iconic movie having anything else as its iconic theme! Creepy with a killer groove!
Good call!
@@ProfessorofRock Thank you!
The perfect movie song!
Damn, the Prof has the best job in the world. To be there and to see Mr Parker play that rift must have been amazing. Damn I wish I could’ve been there for that interview.
Very cool!
I was 8 years old in ‘84, this song and that film are full of nostalgia for me.
"Bustin' makes me feel good!"😂
Ray Parker Jr doesn't get enough credit or recognition, so thanks for doing a video on him (and Boston's Bobby Brown!) What a great surprise, stories from these two artists. Ghostbusters and 1984, I'm ded (as the kids say today). "I ain't afraid o' no ghost." Happy Hallows Eve, y'all.👻
I wonder what the Ghostbusters' theme song would sound like if it was made today. If Ray Parker Jr. is like most folks, he no longer watches COMMERCIALS during shows. He'd have to look elsewhere for inspiration. Young kids who grew up watching programs uninterrupted will disagree, but I miss some of those classic commercials!
Same here!
@dad4ever-c90....just watch that god awful 2016 reboot of Ghost Busters theres a cringe version of this song that is 💩
I know what it sounded like in the eighties- I Want A New Drug 😂
STOLEN from Huey & The News...
@@ProfessorofRockSTOLEN SONG
In 1983, big-name songs for big-name motion pictures ... it looked like it *might* become a cliche. That because everyone would be doing it, we'd start to lose interest ... that it would lose its niche with listeners. "Ghostbusters" was something ambitious, different, and downright refreshing. It did a lot of what many movie songs never did before. And it did so without driving away potential listeners. It instead drew them in. And the sharp, snappy lyrics keep it from losing its charm over the years. Every time I heard the song in the 1980s, it always blew me away. Great interview, great video, great upload. Thanks for this and many other uploaded treasures. B-)
One of my all time favorites, the song is perfect and makes the movie even better!
Thanks for watching!
You cannot separate the two!
Ray Parker clearly just changed the lyrics to “I want a new drug.” He turned it into a jingle.
I could hear it as a child.
I was looking for someone to acknowledge that RP Jr clearly ripped off Huey Lewis and the News who won a settlement.
@@NeversurrenderMM66He was asked to write something similar so he did. The intention was to get clearance from Huey Lewis but someone at the studio dropped the ball. Whoops!
The settlement fell apart when Huey discussed the terms in an interview. Now all royalties flow to Ray Parker Jr. again.
I've listened to both songs a lot. They are not the same. The rhythm is similar, and there are some similarities in chords. However, that can be said of a lot of music. If Huey had gone to court he would have lost.
I'm sure Mr Parker would have loved the Huey Lewis shirt LOL!
So timely... I was parking my car at the grocery store last night and it hit me that "Mr Telephone Man" and "A Woman Needs Love" were the same song, then I realized Ray Parker Jr wrote both of them... 🤣
That's right. We talked about that!
@@ProfessorofRock
It's crazy I forget, then I get reminded every so often when my kids ask me stuff like "Was this popular a long time ago? Why does it sound like the Jackson 5?" 🤣
Oh. OOOOOOHHHH! 😮
This was one of the most enjoyable episodes yet! Just FUN. I legit LOL'd at the clips from the video, especially Ray physically spinning Bill Murray around on the ground so he could "breakdance." 😂😂😂
Iconic song that is ingrained in our lexicon. I used to listen to the Ghostbusters II soundtrack a lot in the late 80's
With On Our Own? A song that is just as good.
@@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980 Yes! That was the one. Yeah, always liked that one
What an absolutely delightful interview! What a great guy; outsourcing the chorus 😀
And yes, you got me, I did think Ray Parker Jr was Lando Calrissian for the longest time (that photo comparison made me feel somewhat vindicated).
I was never a big Ray Parker Jr fan, although I did like him. This interview changes my view a bit. He seems to be the kind of guy I'd want to hang out with ☺ Obviously I have Ghostbusters on my Halloween playlist but also On Our Own 😊 I'm a preschool teacher and I play both of those for the kids all season long. It never fails to move them to get down and jam and we all shout "Ghostbusters!" during the chorus😂 It really does transcend ages!
He's a great guy!
Is Monster Mash on the playlist?
@@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980 actually no; thats one I didnt put on there. Its the Halloween version of Grandma Got Run Over By a Reindeer for me😆
@@lindamcfarland9656 Ooh!
That was one of the best interviews with Ray and Bobby!! Ray remembered every detail of the making of this all time classic,from the concept to the sound to the recording. This is the song and the movie we can all pass down to our kids and grandkids and they will love it. I still see ghost busters costumes every Halloween. Great episode professor and happy Halloween 👻
No kidding. Thanks My Name!
I love that both of them are more proud that the next generation are loving the song and the movies than they are about the fame it brought them. That's some humility.
@@Joreel absolutely! I wonder if their children inherited their talents and will make the next great movie hit
I saw some really cool costumes this year!
This gives me the warm & fuzzy feelings! One of my favourite songs as a kid. 😊😊😊
What a treat! So much talent featured in this episode-- the musicians involved as well as our humble host. The professor has a great way of touching upon the nuances that make this iconic song so good-- pointing out the call-and-response aspect, for instance, you can tell that Ray appreciated his musical scholarship. I love that 'Lando Calrissian has a song!' bit-- I think I made the same connection too at first because to my 10-year old self those guys looked so much alike. Bobby Brown was an unexpected bonus-- it's like getting a regular candy bar in your bag instead of the snack size. Bobby took the ball and ran with it in the same spirit as Ray. After the difficult years that followed it is great to see him smiling and happy while recalling his cameo and time on set. That both men take the most joy in making kids happy and their own children proud of their dads, that is nothing you will get by just analyzing their individual successes or chart rankings. Thanks again, Adam-- Happy Halloween everyone!
This song takes me back to when I was 8 years old and going to Skate Plaza Roller Rink. They would project videos onto this huge wall in the rink. I can still remember the pumping stereo system and the sound of all the arcade machines. Ah, great memories.
If you were a kid in the 80's roller skating rinks and arcades definitely bring you back to some fun childhood memories. I wonder how many first kisses took place in roller rinks back in the 80's throughout the USA? Mine certainly did lol. Those were the days trying to find enough courage up to ask a girl you had a crush on to skate couples only.Man those certainly were the days.I am certain you remember so many People's names that you met in your youth at the skating rink and wonder what happened to them or if there even alive. I wish kids today could get back to doing things the way we did before in our youth. It would definitely help to keep them out of trouble. I feel technology has had a big impact on kids life's today it's a damn shame.
I bought the single, loved the film, loved the song. My 10 year old loved it too, I have memories of him singing the song at 3, only his version was Ghostmusters as he couldn’t get the busters but right.
Good song, but what an amazingly positive person Ray Parker Jr is, an absolute pick-me up video after work.
Adam, I've said it before . . . and I'll say it again the 80s where the modern Renaissance for movies and music. I don't think we'll ever see a more magical time
I agree. Miss it.
Best decade ever!
Being right there in the same room as Ray Parker Jr himself plays Ghostbusters on the guitar? Man, how surreal is that?
I was 10 years old in 1984 and enjoyed Parker’s previous stuff and was somehow cynical at that age to imagine he was far above this “silly” material. As I matured and became a musician myself (hobbyist), I knew better.
Now, hearing this interview I’ve even more respect for him.
Thank you for these enlightening interviews!
Parker is a true professional and class act through and through! 🙂
I think I watched the video of the film(vhs) about 15 - 20 times if not more.
But favourite line from the picture is when Sigourney Weaver is turned into the hell hound, and Bill Murray cracks the line 'so she's a dog'.....gets me everytime, and want to say it to the girl that wouldn't go with you, when you were a teenager. 😅😊 it's a happy movie
"...she sleeps above her covers--FOUR FEET above her covers!"
It's a classic!
I love that part.
Seriously Adam, 1984 was an absolutely amazing year for all those reasons you mentioned. I was a 15 yr old kid in Tucson- all those incredible new things. MTV, the Sony Walkman, we could go to the video rental places and rent any movie we wanted to. Those great cars of the 60s and 70s were dirt cheap. You could still get a brand new car for $5k... Those were the days huh? In another 20 - 30 yrs, will anyone look back to now and say that same thing? I honestly doubt it... And how much worse would it have to be for that to happen???😮 Anyway, cheers to you for yet another gem and the trip down memory lane ❤
I watched a few hours of MTV footage from 1984, and honestly…I wanna go back right now.
@@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980 me too
@@xxlilly_playsxxkiz99803:51 3:51
Loved this song as a kid! I remember going with my grade 6 class in 1984 to see Ghostbusters at the local cinema in small town Australia. Magical movie and song! Loved the video clip too!
Great interview!!! I graduated in 1984. And that movie just blew up. We had a traveling barrel painted with the logo and would date it with every keg it held. It was a badge of honor to have the Ghostbusters keg barrel at your party for yrs to come
I remember buying his album, only for Ghostbusters, but then realizing he had some other great songs. Good times 🎉
*I remember the first video you guys did about this song was what drew me to this channel! Great interview with RPJ!*
Thanks for the upload. I think I have more of an appreciation for this song after watching this than I did when it originally came out. His comments about Stevie Wonder were very touching as well.
My buddies and I argued if he was or was not the guy from Star Wars. We argued and argue about it, but eventually I was able to prove my case that indeed they were not the same guy.
Though I had to wait will Return of the Jedi was released onto video. Which was quite a few years later. I remember calling up my friend and saying he had to pay up.
He had forgotten the bet, but a bet was a bet and that slice of pizza, which was what the bet was for, was the best slice I had ever had in my life. You haven’t lived until you have had a slice of Paisano’s pizza. Plus the drink, best damn Coke too. Lol
Ha ha!
Wink wink 😜
Very cool to see an interview with RPJ ... such a talented musician. Hope we'll get to hear him discuss some of his other hits sometime in the near future!
Fun Fact: one of the many artists who took a stab at the Ghostbusters theme before Parker was duo Hughes/Thrall, comprised of ex-Deep Purple and Trapeze singer/bassist Glenn Hughes and former Pat Travers guitarist Pat Thrall. The demo is on RUclips and while not the classic Parker's became, hearing the Voice of Rock singing about ghostbusting is an absolute delight. Happy Halloween!
Can you pleas e link to it?
@@ProfessorofRockruclips.net/video/LB3pM3MCYB0/видео.htmlsi=wd8c799Sv6I0vE9q
@@ProfessorofRock ruclips.net/video/5xLHXGzCJS4/видео.htmlsi=QziHhMvY74PMbJkQ
@@ProfessorofRock RUclips seems to be blocking all links. Best I can give you is the video title: "1983 Ghostbusters Theme (Demo) - Hughes/Thrall & Peter Aykroyd." And yes, that's Dan's brother who I believe lent a hand in writing lyrics.
Thanks! I’m gonna go listen.
I have heard some of the backstory on the "Ghostbusters" theme, but this was a fun interview from the man himself, Ray Parker Jr. Personally, I was never a big fan of the song as I found it kind of silly. But it fit the movie. The movie was kind of silly, it was fun and really funny. I was in HS in 1984, so I loved through it. The movie was a huge hit (my favorite film from that year was "The Terminator") as was the song. And, yeah, 1984 was a year full of iconic movies and songs.
I’ll be back…
This was an absolutely fun and entertaining interview!!! Outstanding artist!
Is that Ray Parker Jr.? He looks fantastic, time has been good to him.
Yes it is!
I had the OST cassettes of GB & GB2, they got played to death. Thanks for covering this Prof, going to go have a listen online to them now. Ahhhh memories of childhood 🧛♂😱💀👻
I was 14 when the movie came out and the video premiered on MTV. You couldn't go anywhere without hearing the song on the radio, at the mall, on TV, or even at school. Talk about a culture phenomenon...😊
I was 13. 80s were great and so thankful to grow up then after seeing today. My kids are jealous after watching stranger things. The fun, freedom,and better school atmosphere! And better music! My 17yo loves VH, AC-DC, Crue, poison, Zeppelin
@@CUtigerz97 your son has good taste in music 😋
Great chemistry in this interview....brings back great memories!!
It's a classic movie and a timeless song. I have video of my 2 year old daughter saying "Ghostbusters!" when I asked her "Who ya gonna call?" My kids and I would roll down the windows on the car and sing/shout those 2 lines as we were driving along whenever the song would come on. Just fun memories. Doesn't get much better.
The song is an absolute delight with a fun rhythm and catch. That first movie, too, it was lightning in a bottle.
I laughed all through the interview. That is such a good movie. Thanks for the video.
Thanks for watching!
Love this Interview. Real nice to see Ray Parker Jr.
Thanks for watching!
I vividly remember the Sunday that the Ghostbusters theme took the number one spot on AT40. “When Doves Cry” was my first favorite song at the time and had been sitting on top for 5 weeks. I remember actually being in tears over it and if you can believe it I actually hated the Ghostbusters theme for a good while for dethroning Prince! Looking back now of course all I can do is fondly remember that time as that summer of 1984 was probably one of the greatest times in pop music history. Great interview by the way!!
Ray Parker Jr's The Other Woman is positively FANTASTIC as well!
I love the song Ghostbusters , I love hearing the story about it. I also love the movie. I remember going to the movies and seeing it and eating candy.
Very cool!
Movie popcorn and candy! 🍬
This was the interview I never knew I wanted! Well done and thank you!
Please Don't Spam So Close To Me
Great Music that made a Great Movie greater. Ghostbusters: a fantastic story, a perfect cast, and the absolute best music - The silly Incidental Music, the characters' Leitmotifs, and of course, the Theme song. Thank you, Ray...
oh... 1984 also gave us Amadeus. 1984 was truly the best year.
Ray Parker Jr. seems like a down-to-earth, relatable and overall just a cool guy. Great interview.
I watched that movie so many times when I was a kid. I practically had every line memorized!!! Thank you for bringing back wonderful memories POR!!! I love watching the videos you make!!!!
The original GB was awesome! I about rolled when I heard where Ray Parker got the idea for the song.
Love, love, love this song! It simply exemplifies the hopeful innocence of being young in the mid-eighties! And, yes, I totally agree 1984 is a watershed year in popular culture. When I think of my all-time favorites, a disproportionate number of them are anchored in 1984.
Everything I could say about this song or GB has already been said, so i will only mention is one of my most played songs. it´s simply awesome. I don´t like people calling this nostalgia, because it´s not. the song is awesome as you have already presented and it has become timeless.
Professor of Rock, I love how you make each song you cover seem like the greatest song ever written but it doesn't come off as phony. You find what's great about that song.
If you remember waking up in the morning and enjoying a bowl of Ghostbusters cereal while watching your favorite Saturday morning cartoons, you're gonna dig this channel.
Amen!
My mom did that!
Parker is amazing. What I remember most about this song, is that it's very similar to I want a new drug. As you noted, they settled out of court. So Huey got paid twice.
I usually listen to your shows while I work or drive but when I heard RPJ's voice I had to stop and watch. It's not enough just to listen to him after seeing his infectious smile. It's impossible not to like him.
My introduction to RPJ was A woman needs love, super cool song. Need a song...Who you gonna call? Ray Parker!!
GREW UP IN THE 80'S AND THIS WAS AN AWESOME SONG!!!! AT THE CLUB WE SCREAMED "GHOSTBUSTERS!!!!!" AH, THE TIMES WERE GREAT THEN!!! MISS THOSE DAYS!!! :)
1984!! Best year EVER! I was 12 years old. I was about to enter junior high that fall. I was infatuated with football. 1984 was a great year to be a sports fan. The Olympics were in Los Angeles and I remember LA being "dressed up" for the Olympics. I remember watching Ghostbusters in the theater with a good friend of mine. I bought the soundtrack at Kmart. Take me back to 1984 please!!
Great episode Professor! Always been a fan of Ray Parker Jr.! Awesome interview!👍
My favorite pop culture reference is the Jordan Peele impression where Ray Parker Jr did theme songs to other 80s/90s movies, it's hilarious.
For years, the roller skating rink in my hometown plays "Ghostbusters", complete with disco lights and fog. It remains a staple to this day.
Totally underrated talent. He is so much more than this song!
A great tune great show. I was in my teens when it came out. I brought the limited edition 12" Green slime version and still have it, it's on my wall. Also brought Ray's Album Chart Busters.
Great story behind an iconic song. He also seems like such a great person. Thank you!
I remember seeing that in theaters when I was a kid. If you told me then that I would end up acting in a movie with Ernie Hudson, I wouldn't believe you, but it happened. I spoke with him at the crafts table between scenes about how much of an impact his films had had on my childhood. They were part of why I wanted to become an actor. I love all the Ghostbusters movies, including the all female one. Can't wait for the new one.
The song was a perfect fit for the movie. And is just as memorable as the movie.
Ghostbusters, the movie, is one of the most brilliant comedy movies ever made! Every single actor was spot on in their performances, in their parts, their delivery. It is as near perfect a work of genius as man can make and one can laugh at! And laugh I did! All that being said, it is the Ghostbusters theme casting threads throughout the movie, like a spider web, that brings it all together. I cannot hear that song and not see a gigantic Mr. Staypuff Marshmallow Man stomping through Manhattan! Ray Parker, one of the many amazing musicians to come out of Detroit, created the perfect theme for that movie! There's something about Detroit that breeds musical genius, and Mr. Parker proves that!
I remember growing up in the 80s, this song was all over the place, along with Slimmer and Ecto-1 😂👻
Fantastic interview! Loved hearing all the backstory on this classic song.
I remember when this song & music video came out! I would wait for the end of the clip so I could call out the names of the stars saying "Ghostbusters". I didn't know them all - I was an Aussie teenager & I'd never seen some of those people - but out of my family I knew the biggest number! 😁 FYI - I STILL don't know them all almost 40yrs layer! 😂😂
I think my girls, 5 and 7 years old, love Ghostbusters almost as much as I do. That makes me smile.
Seriously talented, humble, and eloquent dude!
Thanks for this. Gave me a new appreciation for this song. Brings back memories
I wonder if Ray used Venkman's line "Mother pus bucket" during his writer's block. Would've been so apropos.
Best swear word ever. I could say it in front of my kids, and they would always crack up.
No kidding!
Ha ha!
I went to see Ghostbusters in the theater with my older sister and her boyfriend and the whole experience just blew me away. But right off the bat when that song came on it was just perfect. That was the greatest time to be a 14 year old kid. That whole year just felt fresh and new. And the vibe kept going when a year later Back to the Future came out and when I was going into the theater I ran into my mom and dad leaving the previous showing and thought wow it's cool how my dad never stopped dating my mom after they got married and had two kids.
Thank u for brining us this beautiful music and pop history!
Awesome interview...what a cool guy.
Remember going to the movie when it came out. Couldn't stop singing the song.
Great story and great interview!
I first heard this when I took my son to a Halloween Party at the O Club Sub Base Bangor. Even though it was played incessantly I couldn't get enough of it. I knew I had to see the movie after that.
I wrote a post about this song that went live the same day as this video! This song is utterly brilliant, and I love that you talked to Bobby Brown about the remix for Ghostbusters 2 (which is one of my all-time favourite soundtracks). Thanks for going deeper.