VirusHead

Is it my imagination, or does Bruce Springsteen’s new single “Radio Nowhere” make reference to the 1980’s Tommy Tutone song “Jenny (867-5309)”?

Compare:

Radio Nowhere

This is Radio Nowhere
Is there anybody alive out there
This is Radio Nowhere
Is there anybody alive out there
I was sitting around a dead dial
Just another lost number in a file

867-5309 (Claymation version)

I got it (I got it), I got it
I got your number on the wall
I got it (I got it), I got it
For a good time call
Jenny don’t change your number
I need to make you mine
Jenny I’ve got your number
8 6 7-5 3 0 9 (8 6 7-5 3 0 9)

A comment on the superficiality of the music scene that goes beyond the lyrics? Or just a coincidence?

Or perhaps a comment on the apathy of the radio audience. Is there anybody alive out there?

Or are they so easily controlled by the industry…the government…the church, etc. etc.?

Discuss amongst yourselves.

(Yes, I’m not only old enough to remember the song, but also to remember a few friends who called the number. You know, just in case.)