Our top 10 Aldo Nova songs list digs deep into the music catalog of a multi-talented hard rock artist. Born in 1956, Aldo Nova is a renowned artist in the Canadian music scene. However, the singer is also well-known in the US, especially due to his multi-platinum success as a songwriter, recording artist, producer, and mixing engineer. Aldo Nova has also established himself as a reputable guitarist and keyboardist with some of his best skills on the instruments showcased in his music career and that of other artists such as Celine Dion.
Aldo Nova’s Career Beginnings and Breakthrough
Canadian singer Aldo Nova ventured into a professional music career in 1979. He signed a recording contract with Portrait Records in 1981. Eventually, he released an eponymous debut EP in 1982. Despite Aldo Nova being a self-produced LP, it catapulted the singer to fame in North America (Canada and the US).
The album led the Canadian singer towards his musical breakthrough, with two of its featured songs charting on the Billboard Hot 100. “Fantasy” and “Fooling Yourself” were critically acclaimed both in the US and Canada, reaching number twenty-three and sixty-five on the Billboard Hot 100. Aldo Nova managed the eighth position on the Billboard 200 in 1982, certified Platinum two times in the US by RIAA.
Aldo Nova remains the greatest ever album released by the Canadian singer. “Fantasy,” a hit from his debut album, has been his trademark song throughout the years. However, Aldo Nova is more than a one-hit wonder. The singer has released several great hits, especially in the ’80s and early ’90s. Other than his debut eponymous LP, the Canadian singer prides himself with several other successful album releases.
His 1983 sophomore LP Subject…Aldo Nova and the 1985 third LP Twitch were highly acclaimed in his homeland. Subject…Aldo Nova and Twitch were certified Platinum and Gold, respectively. Subject…Aldo Nova was also certified Gold in the US, managing number fifty-six on the Billboard 200. “Monkey on Your Back,” “Hold Back the Night,” and “Always Be Mine” are some of the musical gems from Subject…Aldo Nova. Twitch is also home to one of the best Aldo Nova songs, “Rumours of You.”
His LP Blood on the Bricks, issued in 1991, was his last album to chart on the Billboard 200. The LP features some of the best Aldo Nova songs, including “Someday,” “Blood on the Bricks,” and “Medicine Man.” Aldo Nova later released three albums Nova’s Dream in 1997, 2.0 in 2018, and The Life and Times of Eddie Gage in 2020. His last LP features songs that tell of Eddie Gage, an artist who fell into the manipulation of overlords in the music industry.
Aldo Nova’s Other Musical Pursuits
The success of his self-produced eponymous debut LP played a great role in establishing his career as a producer and songwriter. In 1983, Aldo Nova co-wrote the hit “Take Me Away” released by the rock band Blue Öyster Cult. He was later featured alongside Robby Krieger and Joe Satriani on the band’s 1988 LP Imaginos as a member of The Guitar Orchestra of the State of Imaginos. His guitar skills saw him pen the main guitar riff to “Blaze of Glory” by Bon Jovi.
Aldo Nova later penned lyrics to Nicole McCloud’s hit “Don’t You Want My Love” in 1985 and Beau Geste’s song “No More Heroes” in 1986. His songwriting career flourished even bigger after he penned several hits for Celine Dion. Some of the songs Aldo penned for Celine Dion include “Partout Je Te Vois,” “Have a Heart,” and “Des Mots Qui Sonnent.”
His career as a producer for other artists was marked by the 1992 eponymous LP for the Canadian glam metal act Saints & Sinners. In 1996, Aldo Nova was among the producers who worked on Celine Dion’s LP Falling into You. The album won two Grammy Awards in 1997 in the Best Pop Album and Album of the Year categories.
Aldo Nova later produced several songs for Garou, Jon Bon Jovi, Jetsam, Faith Hill, and Marilou Bourdon. The singer later collaborated with his fellow Canadian artist Stephan Moccio to pen the award-winning song by Celine Dion, “A New Day Has Come.” Aldo Nova’s best work as a songwriter was his collaboration with Gary Burr and Chris Braide on the 2003 hit “This Is the Night.”
Aldo Nova’s Accolades and Legacy
“Fantasy” remains Aldo Nova’s best-known effort in his over four-decade solo music career. The song has been listed among the impactful hard rock ballads of the ’80s. Aldo Nova’s success has not only come from his solo career. The Canadian singer received a Grammy Award as a producer, thanks to his efforts on the 1996 Celine Dion LP Falling into You.
Aldo Nova later received an International Achievement Award at the 2003 SOCAN Awards. He received the accolade for co-writing the successful hit “A New Day Has Come,” released by Celine Dion. Aldo Nova has also been lauded for his impactful songwriting and production skills which saw La Ley win a Grammy Award for the Best Latin Rock/Alternative Album for the 2000 album Uno.
The Canadian singer has proved to be a rare gem in the music industry. His exquisite talents have seen him balance success in his career as a recording artist, songwriter, producer, and multi-instrumentalist. Here are the best Aldo Nova songs from his solo career as a recording artist.
# 10 – Dreamwalk
Among the tracks on our top 10 Aldo Nova songs list, few hits can match the nostalgic vibe of “Dreamwalk.” Featured on the 1997 album Nova’s Dream, “Dreamwalk” stands out as a testament to Aldo Nova’s musical versatility. Despite not charting, the album has been critically acclaimed for its unique sonic feel, blending Nova’s characteristic hard rock sound with elements of progressive rock and electronic music.
“Dreamwalk” is an instrumental track distinguished by its inspirational vocal effects, primarily composed of melodic screams that add an ethereal quality to the piece. The instrumentation on “Dreamwalk” showcases Nova’s prowess as a multi-instrumentalist, with him handling the keyboards, synth, bass guitar, lead, and rhythm guitars. This rich tapestry of sounds elevates “Dreamwalk” to one of the best Aldo Nova songs of all time.
The album Nova’s Dream features Aldo Nova on vocals, supported by backing vocals from Nancy Martinez, Violaine Corradi, and the Voices of Africa choir, adding depth and diversity to the soundscape. Interestingly, the song title “Dreamwalk” was also used by Peter White for a track on his 1991 smooth jazz LP Excusez-Moi, but Aldo Nova’s “Dreamwalk” carves its own niche in the rock genre with its distinct blend of styles and impeccable instrumentation.
# 9 – Hold Back the Night
“Hold Back the Night” is an atmospheric standout from Aldo Nova’s 1983 hard rock album, Subject…Aldo Nova. On this track, the Canadian singer-songwriter showcases some of his finest guitar work and vocal performances, solidifying his place in the rock genre. The song’s emotional depth is heightened by the poignant lyrics penned by Nova and Dwight Druick.
The lyrics tell a story of intense longing and desire. Nova sings about a love so profound that he wishes the night would never end, as the break of dawn signifies separation from his beloved. This theme of fleeting moments of intimacy resonates deeply, making “Hold Back the Night” a memorable piece in Nova’s catalog.
Interestingly, “Hold Back the Night” shares its title with songs by The Trammps, The Protomen, and Graham Parker & The Rumour, though each track is unique in its lyrical content. Aldo Nova’s version stands out for its blend of hard rock intensity and lyrical vulnerability, making it a significant contribution to the era’s rock music landscape.
# 8 – Someday
In rock history, few stories of collaboration and mutual respect stand out like that of Jon Bon Jovi and Aldo Nova. Bon Jovi owed Nova a significant debt after Nova penned the main guitar riff for Bon Jovi’s chart-topping hit “Blaze of Glory.” The perfect payback came in the form of a recording deal for Nova at Bon Jovi’s Jambco Records. This partnership culminated in the release of Blood on the Bricks, Nova’s fourth and final charting LP, which includes our number eight pick on the ten best Aldo Nova songs list: “Someday.”
Penned by Aldo Nova, Rick Hughes, and Jon Bon Jovi, “Someday” tells a poignant tale of longing and hope. The song’s lyrics revolve around a man expressing his willingness to welcome back a former lover if she ever decides to return. This desperate hope is underscored by the love he still holds for her and the emotional weight of the letter she left behind. The track’s emotional depth is matched by its melodic structure, showcasing Nova’s knack for blending rock with heartfelt storytelling.
“Someday” reached number forty-five on the Canadian music charts, a testament to its resonance with listeners. The production prowess of Jon Bon Jovi played a pivotal role in reviving Aldo Nova’s career, bringing a fresh energy to the songs on Blood on the Bricks. The album, bolstered by Bon Jovi’s influence and production, marked a significant chapter in Nova’s career, cementing his legacy in the rock genre.
# 7 – Ball and Chain
While Aldo Nova is often celebrated for his Billboard Hot 100 hits “Fantasy” and “Fooling Yourself,” the self-titled album Aldo Nova is also home to one of his finest compositions, “Ball and Chain.” This power ballad showcases Nova’s impeccable skills in both composition and production, solidifying his place in the pantheon of rock musicians.
“Ball and Chain” dives into the emotional turmoil of unrequited love. Through poignant lyrics and a haunting melody, Aldo Nova expresses the deep frustration and heartache that come with love that isn’t reciprocated. The song’s title metaphorically refers to something that restricts one’s freedom—in this case, the love that Aldo Nova describes acts as a significant barrier to his happiness. This theme resonates universally, as many listeners can relate to the feeling of being held back by an unattainable love.
The idiom “ball and chain” has been explored by other artists as well, including Janis Joplin and Social Distortion, each bringing their own unique take to the concept. However, Nova’s rendition stands out for its emotional depth and musical sophistication. The lush production, characterized by soaring guitar solos and heartfelt vocals, makes “Ball and Chain” not just a song, but an experience that captures the essence of heartache and longing.
Beyond the hits, Aldo Nova’s Aldo Nova album is a treasure trove of musical excellence, with “Ball and Chain” being a prime example of his artistic prowess. It reminds us that Nova’s impact on rock music extends far beyond his chart-topping singles, offering a deeper, richer exploration of emotion and sound.
# 6 – Rumours of You
Number six on our top 10 Aldo Nova songs is the hard-hitting track “Rumours of You.” This musical gem from Aldo Nova’s third LP, Twitch, released in 1985, stands out as a poignant exploration of love and betrayal. Unlike many tracks on the album, which Nova co-wrote with other artists, “Rumours of You” was penned solely by him, showcasing his prowess as a songwriter.
“Rumours of You” delves into the emotional turmoil of discovering a lover’s infidelity. Nova’s lyrics vividly capture the pain and confusion of learning about his partner’s betrayal through hearsay. The anguish of the breakup is intensified by the whispers and rumors that surround the affair, making the emotional impact even more profound. This theme of love marred by deceit is timeless, resonating deeply with listeners who have faced similar heartache.
Adding to the track’s intensity is the powerful vocal performance of Fiona Flanagan, whose contribution enhances the song’s emotional depth. Flanagan’s vocals also feature on “Lay Your Love on Me,” another track from Twitch, further cementing her role in bringing Nova’s stories to life.
“Rumours of You” is a testament to Aldo Nova’s ability to blend hard rock with deeply personal storytelling. The song’s raw emotion and compelling narrative make it a standout track, reflecting Nova’s talent for turning personal pain into powerful music. As part of Twitch, it highlights an album that, while perhaps not as commercially successful as his debut, offers a rich, introspective look into the complexities of love and loss.
# 5 – Always Be Mine
“Always Be Mine” takes the fifth spot on our top 10 Aldo Nova songs list. This remarkable track is a standout from Nova’s sophomore LP, Subject…Aldo Nova, and is notable for its futuristic upbeat tune. Despite being a product of the early ’80s, the song’s sound feels ahead of its time, blending Aldo Nova’s consistent hard rock style with a refreshing modern twist.
In “Always Be Mine,” Aldo Nova showcases his talent as a songwriter, solidifying his reputation with enchantingly penned lyrics that explore the complexities of love. This track is emblematic of Nova’s ability to interweave heartfelt themes with his powerful musical arrangements, creating songs that resonate deeply with listeners. While “Always Be Mine” narrowly missed making it onto the Billboard Hot 100, its lasting impact on fans is undeniable.
The song’s engaging melody and Nova’s compelling vocals have ensured its place as a beloved golden oldie. Interestingly, the title “Always Be Mine” was later used by Craig Morgan for a track on his 2003 LP I Love It, although Morgan’s song bears no resemblance to Nova’s in style or theme.
#4 – Blood on the Bricks
“Blood on the Bricks” kicks off Aldo Nova’s fourth LP with a powerful punch. This standout track, co-written by Aldo Nova and Jon Bon Jovi, the iconic frontman of Bon Jovi, exemplifies the collaboration between two rock veterans. Released in 1991, “Blood on the Bricks” successfully climbed the Billboard Mainstream Rock chart, peaking at number fourteen, and reached number sixty-five on the Canadian charts.
The collaboration with Jon Bon Jovi not only brought lyrical depth to the song but also helped Aldo Nova reconnect with mainstream audiences after a six-year hiatus from album releases. The track seamlessly blends hard rock and glam metal, marking it as one of Nova’s last significant contributions to the glam metal genre, which was waning by the early ’90s.
“Blood on the Bricks” is characterized by its robust guitar riffs, dynamic vocal performances, and polished production, reflecting the peak of glam metal’s mainstream appeal. The song, and the album of the same name, played a crucial role in revitalizing Aldo Nova’s career, showcasing his ability to adapt and thrive in the evolving rock landscape. This track remains a testament to Nova’s enduring talent and his ability to create music that resonates with both old fans and new listeners.
#3 – Foolin’ Yourself
Ranking number three on our top 10 Aldo Nova songs list is the trailblazing power ballad “Foolin’ Yourself.” This track stands as one of the most prominent hits from Aldo Nova’s critically acclaimed self-titled debut LP, released in 1982. The song, written, composed, and produced by Nova himself, showcases his multifaceted talent and solidifies his place in rock history.
“Foolin’ Yourself” delves into the emotional aftermath of a breakup. Nova’s lyrics take aim at a former lover who instigated the end of their relationship by moving on with someone else. The raw honesty in the lyrics, combined with the powerful instrumental backing, captures the pain and frustration of unrequited love. This emotional resonance helped the song peak at number sixty-five on the Billboard Hot 100, making it Aldo Nova’s second and final entry on the chart.
The track’s success highlights Nova’s ability to blend rock with heartfelt storytelling, a skill that contributed to the enduring appeal of his debut album. “Foolin’ Yourself” remains a testament to Nova’s craftsmanship in producing a power ballad that resonates across generations.
#2 – Monkey on Your Back
“Monkey on Your Back” stands out as a defining track in Aldo Nova’s career, solidifying his status as a prominent recording artist in 1983. Featured on his sophomore LP, Subject…Aldo Nova, this song emerged as the album’s most successful hit. In a candid interview, Nova revealed that the song’s introspective lyrics were a reflection on his own life, a bold move that added a layer of authenticity to his music.
Nova admitted that the lyrics’ direct and somewhat “preachy” nature might have alienated some rock enthusiasts. However, the song’s powerful delivery and meticulous arrangement resonated with many, earning critical acclaim. “Monkey on Your Back” climbed to number twelve on the Billboard Mainstream Rock chart, showcasing Nova’s ability to blend personal narrative with compelling rock music.
The track’s success is a testament to Nova’s skillful songwriting and passionate performance. His willingness to delve into self-reflection, coupled with his dynamic vocal delivery and robust instrumentation, made “Monkey on Your Back” a standout hit. This song not only highlights Nova’s musical prowess but also his capacity for vulnerability, making it a memorable piece in his discography.
#1 – Fantasy
Topping our list of the top 10 Aldo Nova songs is the anthemic hard rock hit “Fantasy.” This track is the quintessential Aldo Nova song, solidifying his status in the rock music scene and serving as the cornerstone of his eponymous debut LP. “Fantasy” encapsulates Nova’s vision of life as an illusion filled with indulgences, from “powder pleasure” to the allure of neon lights and glamorous women.
“Fantasy” is Aldo Nova’s most successful single on the Billboard Hot 100, where it peaked at number twenty-three. The song also climbed to an impressive number three on the Billboard Mainstream Rock Chart. Its infectious guitar riffs and memorable chorus made it an instant classic, resonating with audiences and earning critical acclaim.
Beyond its chart success, “Fantasy” has had a lasting cultural impact. It was featured in the soundtrack of the 2011 action-adventure video game Saints Row: The Third, introducing the track to a new generation of listeners. Additionally, Steel Panther’s cover of “Fantasy” was used as the theme track for the TV series Rob Dyrdek’s Fantasy Factory, further cementing its legacy in pop culture.
“Fantasy” remains a testament to Aldo Nova’s ability to craft compelling rock music that captures the imagination. Its success and enduring popularity highlight Nova’s talent for blending vivid storytelling with powerful musical composition, making it a defining anthem of his career.
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Top 10 Aldo Nova Songs article published on Classic RockHistory.com© 2024
