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Bonnie Tyler, born Gaynor Hopkins on June 8, 1951, in Skewen, Wales, is a renowned Welsh singer, known for her distinctive raspy voice. Tyler’s career began in the 1970s with the release of her debut single “Lost in France” (1976), which made her an overnight sensation in the UK. Her breakthrough came with her 1977 single “It’s a Heartache,” which became a hit in both Europe and North America.
Tyler’s career soared in the early 1980s when she began working with Jim Steinman, known for his grandiose rock productions. Their collaboration resulted in the 1983 album “Faster Than the Speed of Night,” featuring the iconic power ballad “Total Eclipse of the Heart,” which topped charts worldwide and cemented her status as a global star.
Tyler continued to release albums throughout the 1980s and 1990s, including “Secret Dreams and Forbidden Fire” (1986), which featured another Steinman-produced hit, “Holding Out for a Hero.” Although her commercial success varied over the years, she remained a popular live performer, known for her powerful voice and emotional delivery.
In the 2000s, Tyler experienced a resurgence in popularity, particularly in Europe, where she released several successful albums. She represented the United Kingdom in the Eurovision Song Contest in 2013 with the song “Believe in Me.”
BONNIE TYLER STUDIO ALBUMS
The World Starts Tonight
Released: 1977
The World Starts Tonight is the debut album by Welsh singer Bonnie Tyler, released in 1977. This album showcases Tyler’s distinctive raspy voice and marks her emergence into the music world. It features a mix of rock, country, and pop elements, providing a solid foundation for her career.
The album was produced by David Mackay and recorded at various studios, including Morgan Studios, London. It features musicians like Dave Christopher on guitar, Terry Britten on guitar and backing vocals, and Mo Foster on bass.
CD Track Listings:
- “Got So Used to Loving You” – 3:15
- “Love of a Rolling Stone” – 3:26
- “Lost in France” – 3:54
- “Piece of My Heart” – 3:50
- “More Than a Lover” – 4:14
- “Give Me Your Love” – 3:13
- “The World Starts Tonight” – 3:33
- “Here’s Monday” – 3:47
- “Love Tangle” – 3:14
- “Let the Show Begin” – 4:15
Natural Force
Released: 1978
Natural Force, also known as It’s a Heartache in the US, is Bonnie Tyler’s second studio album, released in 1978. This album includes her hit single “It’s a Heartache,” which achieved significant commercial success and helped to cement Tyler’s place in the music industry.
Recorded at Morgan Studios, London, the album was produced by David Mackay and features musicians like Dave Christopher on guitar, Terry Britten on guitar and backing vocals, and Mo Foster on bass.
CD Track Listings:
- “It’s a Heartache” – 3:30
- “Blame Me” – 4:03
- “Living for the City” – 3:44
- “If I Sing You a Love Song” – 4:47
- “Heaven” – 3:03
- “Yesterday Dreams” – 4:13
- “Hey Love (It’s a Feelin’)” – 3:50
- “(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman” – 3:05
- “Here Am I” – 3:47
- “Baby Goodnight” – 4:31
Diamond Cut
Released: 1979
Diamond Cut is the third studio album by Bonnie Tyler, released in 1979. The album continues Tyler’s blend of rock, country, and pop, featuring both cover versions and original songs primarily written by Ronnie Scott and Steve Wolfe, her then managers and producers.
The album, produced by Robin Geoffrey Cable, Ronnie Scott, and Steve Wolfe, was recorded at RAK Studios in London. Musicians on the album include Bonnie Tyler on vocals, Ed Hamilton on guitar, Mike Gibbins on drums, Kevin Dunn on bass, Pete Wingfield on keyboards, and Ray Martinez on rhythm guitar. The record also features background vocals from the likes of Miriam Stockley and Barry St. John.
CD Track Listings:
- “If You Ever Need Me Again” – 3:32
- “Too Good to Last” – 3:44
- “What a Way to Treat My Heart” – 3:33
- “The Eyes of a Fool” – 3:17
- “Bye Bye Now My Sweet Love” – 3:00
- “Louisiana Rain” – 4:26
- “Baby I Just Love You” – 3:00
- “Words Can Change Your Life” – 3:44
- “My Guns Are Loaded” – 3:45
- “I’m a Fool” – 3:19
Goodbye to the Island
Released: 1981
Goodbye to the Island is Bonnie Tyler’s fourth studio album, released in 1981. The album features a mix of rock, country, and ballads, with Tyler’s voice providing a powerful delivery. The title track, “Goodbye to the Island,” was a particular standout.
This album was recorded at the Workhouse Studios in London and produced by Hugh Murphy. Musicians featured on this album include Bonnie Tyler on vocals, Paul Millns on keyboards, Gary Taylor on bass, Ed Hamilton and Alan Tarney on guitars, and Trevor Spencer on drums. The album also saw contributions from other artists, including Doreen Chanter and Irene Chanter on backing vocals.
CD Track Listings:
- “I’m Just a Woman” – 3:10
- “We Danced on the Ceiling” – 4:54
- “Wild Love” – 4:34
- “The Closer You Get” – 3:49
- “Sometimes When We Touch” – 4:18
- “Goodbye to the Island” – 3:12
- “Wild Side of Life” – 3:46
- “A Whiter Shade of Pale” – 4:28
- “Sitting on the Edge of the Ocean” – 3:18
- “I Believe in Your Sweet Love” – 4:21
Faster Than the Speed of Night
Released: 1983
Faster Than the Speed of Night is Bonnie Tyler’s fifth studio album, released in 1983. This album marked a significant turning point in her career, featuring her massive hit “Total Eclipse of the Heart.” The album’s sound is characterized by its dramatic, anthemic rock style, heavily influenced by producer Jim Steinman’s bombastic and theatrical approach.
The album was recorded at The Power Station in New York and produced by Jim Steinman, known for his work with Meat Loaf. Alongside Bonnie Tyler’s powerful vocals, the album features Roy Bittan on piano, Rick Derringer and Davey Johnstone on guitars, Steve Buslowe on bass, and Max Weinberg on drums, among others. The record was a commercial success, reaching No. 1 in the UK Albums Chart and No. 4 in the US Billboard 200.
CD Track Listings:
- “Have You Ever Seen the Rain?” – 4:08
- “Faster Than the Speed of Night” – 6:41
- “Getting So Excited” – 3:30
- “Total Eclipse of the Heart” – 7:02
- “It’s a Jungle Out There” – 4:39
- “Goin’ Through the Motions” – 4:09
- “Tears” – 3:50
- “Take Me Back” – 5:22
- “Straight from the Heart” – 3:42
Secret Dreams and Forbidden Fire
Released: 1986
Secret Dreams and Forbidden Fire is the sixth studio album by Bonnie Tyler, released in 1986. Continuing her collaboration with Jim Steinman, the album maintains the epic rock sound established in her previous release. It includes hits such as “Holding Out for a Hero” and “Loving You’s a Dirty Job but Somebody’s Gotta Do It.”
Recorded at various studios, including The Power Station in New York, the album was once again produced by Jim Steinman. The album’s lineup includes notable musicians such as Rick Derringer on guitar, Steve Buslowe on bass, and Roy Bittan on piano. The album received positive reviews and performed well commercially, especially in Europe.
CD Track Listings:
- “Ravishing” – 6:25
- “If You Were a Woman (And I Was a Man)” – 5:14
- “Loving You’s a Dirty Job but Somebody’s Gotta Do It” – 7:48
- “No Way to Treat a Lady” – 5:17
- “Band of Gold” – 5:50
- “Rebel Without a Clue” – 8:36
- “Lovers Again” – 4:14
- “Holding Out for a Hero” – 5:50
Hide Your Heart
Released: 1988
Hide Your Heart, also known as Notes From America in the United States, is Bonnie Tyler’s seventh studio album, released in 1988. This album marks a shift towards a more mainstream rock sound, featuring a collection of songs written by notable songwriters including Desmond Child, Diane Warren, and the album’s producer, Jim Steinman.
Recorded at various studios, including Bearsville Studios in New York, Hide Your Heart was produced by Desmond Child. The musicians on this album include Bonnie Tyler on vocals, Keith Scott and John McCurry on guitars, Steve Buslowe on bass, and Arthur Stead on keyboards. The album includes the hit singles “Hide Your Heart” and “The Best.”
CD Track Listings:
- “Notes from America” – 4:53
- “Hide Your Heart” – 4:25
- “Don’t Turn Around” – 4:17
- “Save Up All Your Tears” – 4:22
- “To Love Somebody” – 5:49
- “Take Another Look at Your Heart” – 3:46
- “The Best” – 4:15
- “Shy with You” – 3:38
- “Streets of Little Italy” – 4:39
- “Turtle Blues” – 4:09
Bitterblue
Released: 1991
Bitterblue is the eighth studio album by Bonnie Tyler, released in 1991. This album represents a departure from the rock-oriented sound of her previous albums, leaning more towards pop and adult contemporary styles. It was a commercial success, particularly in Europe.
The album was produced by Dieter Bohlen, Roy Bittan, and others, and recorded in several studios across Europe. Alongside Bonnie Tyler’s vocals, the album features Dieter Bohlen on guitars and keyboards, and a variety of studio musicians. The album includes hits like “Bitterblue” and “Against the Wind.”
CD Track Listings:
- “Bitterblue” – 3:50
- “Against the Wind” – 3:38
- “Careless Heart” – 4:32
- “Whenever You Need Me” – 4:05
- “Where Were You” – 4:59
- “Save Me” – 4:03
- “He’s Got a Hold on Me” – 4:14
- “Tell Me the Truth” – 3:50
- “Heaven Is Here” – 4:45
- “Love Is in Love Again” – 4:44
- “Till the End of Time” – 4:04
- “Too Hot” – 3:28
Angel Heart
Released: 1992
Angel Heart is Bonnie Tyler’s ninth studio album, released in 1992. This album continues her exploration of pop and adult contemporary music, featuring a blend of powerful ballads and up-tempo tracks. The album saw Tyler working with producer Dieter Bohlen, known for his work in the European music market, which helped to further establish her popularity in the region.
The album, recorded at various studios in Europe, features Bonnie Tyler’s emotive vocals, Dieter Bohlen on guitars and keyboards, and additional session musicians. The album includes the tracks “Fools Lullaby” and “Call Me,” which exemplify Tyler’s ability to deliver emotionally resonant performances.
CD Track Listings:
- “Fools Lullaby” – 3:51
- “Take a Chance” – 3:39
- “Race to the Fire” – 3:52
- “Sending Me Angels” – 5:24
- “Call Me” – 3:59
- “Angel Heart” – 3:49
- “Daytime Friends” – 4:17
- “God Gave Love to You” – 4:31
- “All We Have Is Tonight” – 3:33
- “I’m Only a Lonely Child” – 3:11
- “Born to Be a Winner” – 3:44
- “Save Your Love” – 5:18
Silhouette in Red
Released: 1993
Silhouette in Red is the tenth studio album by Bonnie Tyler, released in 1993. This album continues the partnership with producer Dieter Bohlen, delivering a mix of pop, rock, and ballad styles. The album includes a variety of catchy tunes and powerful ballads, showcasing Tyler’s distinctive vocal style.
Recorded across multiple studios in Europe, Silhouette in Red features musicians like Dieter Bohlen on guitars and keyboards, with Tyler’s powerful vocals taking center stage. The album includes tracks like “Sally Comes Around” and “From the Bottom of My Lonely Heart.”
CD Track Listings:
- “Sally Comes Around” – 3:39
- “Fire in My Soul” – 4:39
- “Stay” – 4:04
- “Send Me the Pillow” – 3:32
- “From the Bottom of My Lonely Heart” – 3:32
- “Silhouette in Red” – 3:57
- “I Climb Every Mountain” – 3:34
- “Bad Dreams” – 3:46
- “James Dean” – 3:12
- “Clouds in My Coffee” – 3:21
- “Years May Come” – 3:51
- “Cryin’ a Little” – 3:36
- “You Are So Beautiful” – 2:22
Free Spirit
Released: 1995
Free Spirit is the eleventh studio album by Bonnie Tyler, released in 1995. This album showcases Tyler’s return to her rock roots, featuring a collection of covers and original tracks. The album is known for its mix of classic rock and contemporary sounds, demonstrating Tyler’s ability to adapt and evolve with musical trends.
The album was recorded at various studios and featured a lineup of accomplished musicians, including Bonnie Tyler on vocals. The production team included notable names in the rock genre, bringing a fresh and energetic sound to the album. Free Spirit includes covers of popular songs like “You’re The One That I Want” and “Limelight.”
CD Track Listings:
- “Nothing to Do with Love” – 3:31
- “You’re the One That I Want” – 3:30
- “Making Love Out of Nothing at All” – 7:49
- “Given It All” – 4:44
- “Have You Ever Seen the Rain?” – 4:07
- “Back Home” – 3:57
- “Sally Comes Around” – 3:39
- “Fire in My Soul” – 4:39
- “Stay” – 4:04
- “Send Me the Pillow” – 3:32
- “From the Bottom of My Lonely Heart” – 3:32
- “Silhouette in Red” – 3:57
- “Bad Dreams” – 3:46
- “I Climb Every Mountain” – 3:34
- “Clouds in My Coffee” – 3:21
- “Years May Come” – 3:51
- “Cryin’ a Little” – 3:36
- “You Are So Beautiful” – 2:22
All in One Voice
Released: 1998
All in One Voice is the twelfth studio album by Bonnie Tyler, released in 1998. This album marked a significant stylistic shift, as Tyler explored a more subdued and emotionally resonant style, moving away from the rock-driven sound of her previous works. The album is characterized by its ballads and soft rock tracks, highlighting Tyler’s versatility as a vocalist.
The album, recorded in various studios, was produced by a team of producers including David Aspden and Jimmy Smyth. It features Bonnie Tyler’s emotive vocal performances, supported by a range of musicians contributing to the album’s nuanced and heartfelt sound. The album includes tracks such as “Heaven” and “Like an Ocean.”
CD Track Listings:
- “Heaven” – 3:57
- “Like an Ocean” – 4:06
- “Soon Will Be Too Late” – 3:51
- “You Always Saw the Blue Skies” – 3:50
- “We Can Start Here” – 3:56
- “Angel of the Morning” – 3:48
- “The Reason Why” – 3:49
- “Return to Blue” – 3:15
- “You’re Breaking My Heart Again” – 4:46
- “I Put a Spell on You” – 4:37
- “I’ll Never Let You Down” – 3:56
- “The Rose” – 3:26
The Best Is Yet to Come
Released: 2021
The Best Is Yet to Come is the eighteenth studio album by Bonnie Tyler, released in 2021. This album showcases Tyler’s unyielding energy and vocal power, even after decades in the music industry. Embracing a classic rock and melodic pop sound, the album includes both original songs and covers, all imbued with Tyler’s iconic raspy voice.
Produced by David Mackay, the album was recorded at various studios. It features a host of musicians including Bonnie Tyler on vocals, with contributions from talented session players. Standout tracks include “When the Lights Go Down” and a cover of “Stuck to My Guns,” exemplifying her enduring appeal.
CD Track Listings:
- “The Best Is Yet to Come” – 3:03
- “Dreams Are Not Enough” – 3:30
- “Hungry Hearts” – 3:35
- “Stuck to My Guns” – 3:58
- “When the Lights Go Down” – 3:58
- “Stronger Than a Man” – 3:51
- “I’m Not in Love” – 4:02
- “Somebody’s Hero” – 3:54
- “Call Me Thunder” – 3:43
- “I’m Only Guilty (Of Loving You)” – 3:34
- “You’re the One” – 3:48
- “Catch the Wind” – 3:44
BONNIE TYLER LIVE ALBUMS
Bonnie Tyler Live
Released: 9 July 2006
“Bonnie Tyler Live (2005)” is a live album that captures the dynamic stage presence and vocal prowess of Bonnie Tyler. Released on 9 July 2006 under Stick Music label, this CD features recordings from her performances in 2005.
CD Track Listings:
- “Intro” – 1:08
- “Holding Out for a Hero” – 3:46
- “All I Need Is Love” – 4:49
- “Driving Me Crazy” – 3:26
- “Crying in Berlin” – 3:47
- “Celebrate” – 4:02
- “Hold Out Your Heart” – 4:14
- “Run Run Run” – 3:29
- “Louise” – 3:34
- “Intro 2” – 1:34
- “Lost in France” – 4:13
- “If You Were a Woman” – 4:24
- “Total Eclipse of the Heart” – 3:58
- “Simply Believe” – 5:00
- “Here She Comes” – 3:34
- “It’s a Heartache” – 5:03
Live in Germany
Released: December 2, 2011
Complete List Of Bonnie Tyler Albums And Discography article published on Classic RockHistory.com© 2022
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