CAFFE` LATTE` 
TOP 1200 CHOICE TRACKS

Mid-week bonus: #613- 611
#613 EPIC Faith No More
When Faith No More released "Epic", they scored not only a breakthrough hit, but a song that is a perfect example of clever juxtaposition. The group achieved this by creating a track which featured a fusion of rap, heavy metal, funk and classical music. 
Faith No More formed in 1981 in San Francisco. Lead singers came and went until the group settled on Mike Patton in time for 3rd album 'The Real Thing' which was issued in 1989. That release contained the track "Epic". The lyrics were penned by new recruit Patton while the music was composed by the remaining members. Matt Wallace produced the recording. Released in 1990, the single reached #1 in Australia and went Top 10 in the US.
The group returned to #1 in Australia in 1993 with a cover of The Commodores' "Easy". Internal friction caused some line-up changes and the band called it quits in 1998. They re-formed in 2009 for tours in Europe and America. The group's current status is up in the air.

#612 LOVE BALLAD George Benson
George Benson released "Love Ballad" in 1979. Lifted off his 'Livin' Inside Your Love' LP, it was a remake of a hit by R&B group L.T.D. The song was written by Skip Scarborough who has written for the likes of Earth Wind and Fire, Anita Baker, The Emotions and Patti Labelle. 
Benson's cover was produced by Tommy LiPuma and features Ralph MacDonald on percussion, Steve Gadd on drums as well as the singer himself on guitar. While the L.T.D. original peaked at #20 in America in 1976, Benson peaked at #18 Pop & 3 R&B. In the UK, the single reached #29.

#611 HOLD ON Santana
The longevity enjoyed by Santana is staggering. That the band is still a viable recording act in its 6th decade is a rare feat. The group formed in San Francisco in 1966. Its pivotal member is of course, the renowned guitarist Carlos Santana.
"Hold On" was released as a single in 1982. The song was written and originally recorded by Ian Thomas. It was included on his 1981 LP 'The Runner'. Santana's faithful remake peaked at #15 in the US. The cover version was produced by Bill Szymczyk, who had produced The Eagles.