“Rosanna” by Toto
Toto reached its peak in 1982 with the release of the top-five hit “Rosanna,” a song about love found and lost that solidified their status among the biggest bands of the 80s. It’s long been joked that the song was inspired by actress Rosanna Arquette, who was dating the band’s keyboardist, Steve Porcaro, at the time. Even Arquette played along with the joke occasionally. Songwriter David Paich denied the rumor for years before finally admitting in 2016 that he named the song after Arquette because he secretly had a crush on her. While Toto has enjoyed a successful career spanning over forty years, the 80s marked their heyday with hits like “Rosanna,” “Africa,” and 1978’s “Hold the Line,” establishing them as a supremely talented and entertaining group of musicians.
“Rosanna” By Toto
“Suzanne” by Leonard Cohen
This song catapulted Leonard Cohen to fame when Judy Collins recorded it in 1967. Cohen had penned it as a poem the year before, later recording his own version on his debut album. The song depicts Cohen’s deep bond and unrequited attraction to Suzanne Verdal. They would stroll through Montreal, enjoying each other’s company and the city’s sights, with Suzanne serving him tea at home. Despite the romantic imagery, they remained friends as Cohen found the idea of being with Suzanne more enticing than the reality. While Suzanne received no royalties from the song, Cohen himself only profited from his performances after unknowingly signing away the copyright years prior.
“Suzanne” By Leonard Cohen
