Chart Performance: Pop (#7); 1980
Story Behind The Song By Ed Osborne
By the dawn of the 1980’s, Hollywood and record labels fully realized the money making potential that existed in coupling film and popular music. And Kenny Loggins was the right artist with the right stuff at the right time. In 1980 he hitched his star to Caddyshack, starring Rodney Dangerfield, Bill Murray, Chevy Chase, Ted Knight, and one very funny gopher. Caddyshack became a cultural phenomenon with Kenny’s songs riding the wave all the way to the bank. In addition, I’m Alright – from the soundtrack – launched a string of Kenny Loggin’s film favs from movies such as Footloose and Top Gun. For the multi-talented musician, the ultra-success of his movie soundtrack singles was a mixed blessing. The hits brought record sales and writer royalties, while Kenny’s non-Hollywood recording career waned. On the other hand, Kenny’s movie music made him a permanent part of 20th century pop culture. (Trivia note: Listen for Eddie Money singing background vocals on I’m Alright.)
This content and all Song Meaning articles were created and written by Top 40 Contributing Editor Ed Osborne. © 2023 Ed Osborne. All Rights Reserved. In addition to these song meaning articles, Ed has written our “Year in Music 1960s-1990s” articles.
Produced by:
- Kenny Loggins
- Bruce Botnick
Lyrics Written by:
- Kenny Loggins
Awards:
- “I’m Alright” earned Loggins the Grammy Award for Best Male Pop Vocal Performance in 1981
Ed Osborne
Hi. I got my first record at age two and never looked back, spending a decades-long career in radio and the music business. Even after years of reading about and listening to all types of music, I am still fascinated by it. Apart from that, I’m endlessly intrigued by art, nature, and the inner lives of people (and dogs).
You must be logged in to post a comment.