From 1982 to 1987 this Band RULED Radio…Then They VANISHED-What the HELL Happened? Professor of Rock

[@ProfessorofRock]

Poll: Who is your pick for the most underrated vocalist of the 80s?

[@thetitleisours1]

Jimmy Jamison was always one of mine. Been listening to the Journey ARRIVAL album lately. So I need to give props to Steve Augeri. What an underappreciated album with a lot of great songs on it

[@Code.Name.V]

Alan Frew - Glass Tiger Annie Lennox - Eurhythmics Charlie Sexton Cyndi Lauper Corey Hart Marie Frederikkson - Roxette Martha Davis - Motels Philip Oakey - Human League Richard Butler - Psychedelic Furs Rindy Ross - Quarterflash

[@BillGraper]

Jeanette from Exposé. Yeah, not that she belts it out. It's more about the tone of her voice. Listen to her in songs like "Seasons Change" and "Your Baby Never Looked Good In Blue." Her voice brings tears to my eyes. 🥲

[@catherine6653]

Glen Tillbrook, Squeeze Andy Bell, Erasure Niel Finn, Crowed House

[@christineml1476]

Myles Goodwyn, April Wine

[@roseanngottschalk4145]

Dave Bikler was my neighbor in Warrenville IL. Mark the drummer was a friend of mine, who had Jimi Jamison and all the band members sign my Vital Signs Album for my Daughter Carrie. Carrie and her little friends sat on Dave's front lawn and listened to them create EYE OF THE TIGER! Vital Signs was their best album, great memories. Jimi Jamison, fantastic singer, he saved Survivor when Dave got sick. RIP Jimi

[@user-ps4go7qf8f]

Jimi was the best thing that happened to the survivor! And thanks to that, I was able to meet him.❤ I love Jimi my favorite🎧🎤🎼🎶 forever!💕

[@wizardgirl71]

Jimi Jamison is someone who captures our ears with his beautiful range of voice. I have enjoyed listening to Survivor since they started playing in the 80s. I am still listening and appreciate their music. I only wish that I had seen Jimi Jamison in concert.

[@bond1_mjblosser]

Jimi Jamison had a voice that still sounded chesty and masculine even at those high ranges, which is very rare. One of the best ever. I love Survivor, you can't help but be in a good mood whenever one their songs come on.

[@coryell902]

"I Can't Hold Back" might be the most perfect pop song. EVER. No wasted bars anywhere, great dynamics, and sparkling recording. That's the Survivor tune I can listen to endlessly, and can't help but sing along to.

[@cheryldyer554]

Thank you for covering Jimi Jamison/Survivor. I love everything Jimi sang and listen daily to all of his songs. Burning Bridges on Too Hot To Sleep is one of his great songs. His last album while alive, released in 2012, Never Too Late, is fantastic and he was 61. You can't beat his perfect pitch, remarkable voice. Target, Cobra, Survivor, solo CDs, One Man's Trash- History show his powerful voice. He gave his all with each performance and was a giving person. He is one of the top rock singers along with Lou Gramm. Deeply missed.💕

[@trinaq]

Yes, most people only remember them for "Eye of the Tiger", but "The Search is Over" is the perfect wedding slow dance song. 💒😍

[@ProfessorofRock]

It's such a great 80s power ballad! Thanks Trina!

[@rayfabian9488]

Only a woman could like that shitty song. I hope who ever picked that for a wedding song is long divorced. N

[@ShelleybutyoucancallmeShell]

I loved The Search Is Over. I have always thought it should win an award for the music video which best followed the lyrics of a song.

[@carlwalker1623]

I wasn’t a fan of Eye of the Tiger so I never bothered listening to the band. Then decades later they were playing for free outside in Detroit Michigan so I went to see the one hit wonders, but to my surprise, I recognized more songs I liked and was blown away by the guitarist and eventually went out a bought all their albums.

[@kingofallwhites]

That song would doom the marriage.

[@Miamiborne1969]

Vital signs was a masterpiece of the 80s where even the unreleased songs were fantastic. “It’s the singer not the song” and “I see you in everyone” are good examples!

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

What a great song title: It’s the Singer, Not the Song.

[@istankimjong-unbutcantstan3398]

The artwork could have used a little TLC but the music made up for it.

[@margix1172]

Caught in the game and eye of the tiger (the whole album) are 2 of the great rock masterpieces!

[@bobbygans1893]

I see you in everyone should have been a top 20 hit at least

[@ScarletKnightAGK]

Popular Girl should have taken over the world. Note-for-note Vital Signs is a very, very rare perfect album.

[@landyachtfan79]

"The Search Is Over", one of my most favorite love songs of the '80's. Whenever I hear it, I will always be transported back in time to the summer of 1986 & hearing it on the AM/FM stereo radio of a blue 1985 Chevrolet Celebrity station wagon going to & from Camp Forty Acres in Wilmington, MA. You know, sometimes, we search the world over to find exactly what we want, & we fail to realize that it's been right in front of us the whole time.

[@sandipage1471]

I had the pleasure of meeting Jimi Jamison back in 79 ..he was from Memphis..as i am from MS...but he was such a down to earth .. unassuming man..he is greatly missed ..Rest in Peace Jimi ..❤🫶☮️💙🎙️🌟🌠p.s.when i met J.J.he was with Target ..and was soon to be with the band Cobra..then he ofcourse went on to be successful with Survivor .Jimi never allowed his success to go to his head ..he was so polite..Gosh we miss him and still love him .😢😊

[@VinceCollier]

"Vital Signs" was one of my FAVORITE albums of the time and I still enjoy it. I'd play it over and over.

[@darrylwaites7747]

Jimi was one of the better singers in rock history and a nice guy also. I got to meet him thru a friend and spent a little time at his place in North Memphis. He showed me his gold albums,played some music. He talked about his family which he loved dearly and gave me a CD of his daughter's recording. He was a great song writer and you could really tell that the way he played the classical 🎸 Definitely a highlight in my life for me. Friends told me he was good as gold. I believe it. Not bad for a Mississippi boy. RIP Jimi.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

He sounded like a sweetheart when offstage. RIP to Jimi.

[@Faltor895]

He was a great songwriter? What hit songs did he write, other than co-writing Man Against the World and I'm Always Here?

[@darrylwaites7747]

Well he created several songs right in front of me. That's a mark of a great songwriter and I just happened to like it. Just because he's not credited or known for it doesn't mean the latter. He is a good songwriter as far as I'm concerned.

[@Faltor895]

@@darrylwaites7747 I agree he's good, just not at the level of Jim Peterik.

[@darrylwaites7747]

@@Faltor895 true

[@flavellinator]

I Can't Hold Back, to me, is one of the most underrated songs of the '80s... Just awesome!

[@BillGraper]

Yep, and it also has an amazing bridge. Great tune!!!

[@ProfessorofRock]

It's such a perfect song. I totally agree.

[@ProfessorofRock]

Amen!

[@maxaroni15]

💯 * I can’t believe it wasn’t a top 10 (#13 peak).

[@cmmolthr]

true

[@davidkurnos3081]

So glad someone FINALLY gave them credit

[@nicholasmoore2590]

I've just listened to The Search Is Over. What a beautiful song, it's the story of me and my wife.

[@Bolo2028]

Jim Peterik is such a great person to interview. He is a wealth of talent, knowledge and stories to tell. He also seems like a great, down to earth guy.

[@LarryFleetwood8675]

National American musical treasure, along with Kerry Livgren and Todd Rundgren the three unsung kings.

[@ProfessorofRock]

He's amazing for sure!

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

And I cannot get enough of his purple hair! Gosh, he is just so COOL.

[@Scott-DJ]

He's written everything from 38 Special to Sammy Hagar, but his biggest claim to fame is probably the singer of "Vehicle" by Ides of March back in the 70s.

[@kevgamble]

Such a fantastic songwriter and musician.

[@bherrin67]

The Search Is Over is such a great song and the album Vital Signs is just about perfect. I had the cassette when I was in high school and my friends and I played it over and over. What a great time the mid 80s were, especially for music. Thanks for covering this great band. 👍🏻🎸✌🏻

[@istankimjong-unbutcantstan3398]

I loved that but "I Can't Hold Back" was great in the uptempo department

[@Taylor-kd6lr]

To me Jameson had the best voice of any of the 80’s vocalist. Simply incredible and underrated!

[@lts14fan45]

Totally agree with you!!!!

[@dwaynebrown164]

its steve perry all the way.

[@Taylor-kd6lr]

Nah. Love Steve Perry, but I've heard him be a little “pitchy” at times. I’ve never heard Jameson hit a bad note.@@dwaynebrown164

[@failingup4907]

Steve Perry, end of story.

[@jimbubbatube]

I got to see Jimi Jamison perform live one time. He was absolutely incredible. Amazing vocals. One of the best live performances I’ve ever seen. Right up there with Kenny Loggins.

[@dowens70]

Jimi Jamison? LOL Dave Bickler sang in their biggest and best songs - Jamison was B grade at best.

[@CapoKabar]

@@dowens70🤨🤨Seriously? Jamison was more versatile. Dave cant sing his songs, Jamison can sing anything

[@RRSmurf]

​@@dowens70Regardless of your preference, to call Jim Jamison 'B grade' is laughable.

[@gregmacklin9758]

​@dowens70 PTSSHHH,,,,I agree I couldn't stand survivor. Eye Of The Tiger sucked

[@Dreamqueen08]

​@@dowens70seriously friend??? You don't even know the band Survivor, how the hell you say that Jimi is grade B' Jimi was the best and you know that very well, envious, Jimi sang with such a beautiful voice that when he sang The Search is Over in the studio for The first time they came out crying, Peiterik himself told it, Bickler recorded the song of the eyes of tiger yes, yeah, big deal, Jimi later had to record it in the recording studio as well, for a greatest hits album that they made, Jimi sings That song a million of times better than Bikler, Jim Paiterik loves Jimi's voice, and he is a great writer, he said that Jimi is one of his favorite artists. In fact, he has said on several occasions that Jimi has taken ownership of his songs because they have the incomparable seal of his beautiful voice! the most beautiful voice your ears have ever heard!😑

[@gossett2006]

Jimi Jamison had the best voice I ever heard. It screamed "youthful strength" and the thought of him as mortal, and vulnerable as anyone, never entered my mind. We forget that these people are just that; people!! Brad Delp, Jimi, and. Elvis, to me are the best voices. Survivor MUSIC is incredible. All of it. There is ZERO fluff or filler. Buy all their CDs. You will LOVE all. Their last two, 88 Too Hot To Sleep and 2014 Reach have high points as high as their previous work. Survivor gives me CHILLS!!!! Tell those you love that you love them.

[@rainymoon9848]

Jimi Jamison, Roy Khan (former lead singer of Kamelot), Tommy Karevik (current lead singer of Kamelot) are my favorite male singers. With my most purchased male singers being: Jim Peterik (Ides of March, Solo, World Stage, Pride of Lions); Jimi Jamison (Survivor, Solo, and Cobra), Toby Hitchcock (Pride of Lions), Roy Khan (Kamelot and Conception), and Richard Marx.

[@carleysdad94]

You forgot to mention Steve Perry and Freddie Mercury, both of which had better voices and more range than Jimi.

[@mikenastasi8927]

Jimi Jamison had such a seemingly smooth and effortless voice reminiscent of Steve Perry. I always thought they should have been bigger. Vital Signs is incredible beginning to end.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

He’s got a little Steve Perry, a little Lou Gramm in his DNA.

[@bnigh5495]

The entire Vital Signs album is amazing, no bad songs at all!

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

Highly recommend!

[@thomashuelsman4400]

Agree!

[@lobitome]

Totally agree.

[@margix1172]

Caught in the game and eye of the tiger (the whole album) are 2 of the great rock masterpieces!

[@cgstrickland2918]

Absolutely amazing talent in that band

[@r.g.armstrong2688]

Jimi got the high notes, but also a warm, powerful voice. ‘Too Hot to Sleep’ showcases his fullpowers, that album should have been number 1 in the charts.

[@rzrbckmz23]

Love "Didn't Know it Was Love". That should have been a huge hit but the record company didn't promote it and radio was changing to more R&B and pop metal bands. then a couple years later grunge took over and killed melodic rock.

[@ZenyattaFan1]

Jim Peterik is an incredible songwriter! And Jimi Jamison was one of the best rock/pop singers ever!

[@paulasusan63]

"I Can't Hold Back" is one of my favorites!

[@kevinpaige5746]

So many of us musicians in Memphis, TN hung with, knew, played with Jimi, myself included. Jimi was simply the sweetest, down to earth guy. A true gem. Memphis is very proud of him and happy to have called him friend.

[@user-ps4go7qf8f]

I never met Jimi in person, but watching his videos and interviews, it seems to me that he was a man as beautiful inside as out, it's a shame that I didn't meet him in person. I really liked Jimi! 😢

[@sheraa-on8yt]

I am so happy that in Memphis they love Jimi so much, he always said with great pride that he was from Memphis, at the 2012 rock meet classic the presenter of the event introduced Jimi saying that he was from Memphis USA.

[@davidbieloh1382]

For a kid who graduated high school in 1985, few songs are as nostalgic to me as several survivor tunes. They still take me back to 85, even more specifically than Journey who is my all time favorite to this day. I did get to see Survivor live with Jimi Jamison in Las Vegas, then again in Dallas, but by that time it was the later incantation of the group.

[@PatrickFDolan]

Same. Remember Aldo Nova? I discovered them in 85.

[@carleysdad94]

1986's When Seconds Count and 1988's Too Hot To Sleep were both amazing (and highly underrated) albums. Didn't Know It Was Love and Across The Miles (from THTS) are incredible songs.

[@JC-js1wz]

Jimi had just an unforgettable voice. The raw emotion he put into every song just pulled you in each and every time. A couple of songs that stick out in my mind that I feel were underrated were, Didn't know it was love, and Man against the world. His voice still to this day gives me chills. RIP Jimi❤

[@barbaramay5048]

Most Underrated Group Ever from the 80s... I loved their music...

[@pistolpeteOH]

Great song and album! 1985, the year my wife and I got engaged. Married in ‘86. Still together!

[@ProfessorofRock]

Awesome! Congrats!

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

Congratulations Peter!

[@kittensanddaisies5615]

My husband and i were married in '86 also and still together. Congrats to you and your wife!

[@pistolpeteOH]

@@kittensanddaisies5615 and to you also! We all grew up in a great time, especially for music!

[@rogerdeahl9629]

Love Survivor! Glad they found Jimi Jamison. It would have been a shame if Survivor had only been known for Eye of the Tiger. Jamison does have a great voice....... possibly one of the best of the 80s. Thanks Professor! Today is the "gotcha day" for my dog Russ. I was gifted him 3 years ago today. Have a great Tuesday!

[@dyer2cycle]

Actually, the 1983 album that "fizzled and flopped" was one of there best albums...definitely one of, if not the hardest rocking albums of their career...filled with MANY great songs..try listening to "Santa Anna Winds"...epic!..such a CRYING shame that so few people have even heard it. The album should have been discovered by AOR radio, if not top 40. Like Toto, Survivor was filled with top-notch musicians..Frankie Sullivan, underrated guitarist with a very unique sound...Jim Peterik, prolific songwriter, and very talented multi-instrumentalist..Marc Droubay, power drummer, just listen to his chops. And yes, Bickler did have vocal problems, but I would in no way say Jamison was a "better" singer...Jamison did have better enunciation than Dave, but Bickler, when his game was on, had a greater range...just listen to Dave on "Nothing Can Shake Me From Your Love" on their 1978 debut album....

[@bobdavis4848]

Before Jamison, Survivor weren't only known for that song. "Poor Man's Son" reached #33, "American Heartbeat" reached #17, and my favorite the debut "Somewhere In America" and other songs were also Hot 100 hits with Bickler. Two weeks until the 4th of July, but this video mentions neither single with America references in their titles.

[@duanesealy3592]

Jamison tried to sue them for the name and lost

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

Happy birthday to Russ!

[@bobdavis4848]

P.S. Roger, sorry I forgot to say congratulations on your dear dog's birthday, lucky Russ! I hope he and you had a great Tuesday!

[@jillwklausen]

I enjoy this guy every time you interview him. What a wonderful story about that song. And I love the fact that his music heroes are Burt Bacharach and Hal David, two of the greatest contributors to music in history. Thanks for another great episode, Adam. Have an excellent day.

[@ProfessorofRock]

Thanks Jill! Always a pleasure!

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

R.I.P. Burt Bacharach.

[@lisaruttenberg5886]

He also had all thus. Real Men of Genuis ads.

[@daveg5018]

I still bring up the Vital Signs album and play it while driving. I’m a child of the 80’s and I loved everything about their sound. Jimmy’s voice, the keyboard/synthesizers guitar solos. To me it’s perfect!

[@Alliss616]

Thank you Professor, that “Yearning” in JIMI’s voice is what made him so unique in his Talent. He was AMAZING. A Beautiful Soul with a Voice of Gold✨✨✨✨✨

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

That is exactly what made him sing with passion.

[@Alliss616]

@@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980 JIMI was one of a Kind✨✨✨✨✨

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

@@Alliss616Yes he was. RIP Jimi 😢

[@wendygould4476]

My favorite song of theirs is “Didn’t know it was love “ I adore the feel good vibes and the video always brings me joy ❤️😊💛

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

Good one.

[@kittensanddaisies5615]

It's one of my favorite Survivor songs. Definitely has feel good vibes!

[@Scooter730]

One of my absolute favorite albums from that time period... I was really fortunate to see them during Spring Break in Daytona Beach. It was an amazing show and their music always grabs me anytime I hear it!

[@tarheel7406]

Should have mentioned that Bickler was the singer in the Real Men of Genius ads. Story goes that the ad people contacted a talent agency to find someone with the look and sound of a classic 80s rock singer, to which the agency said yep, we have the classic 80s rock singer.

[@phill.2924]

Thanks for that tidbit!! I loved those ads. They were hysterical!

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

I wasn’t aware of that, thanks for telling me.

[@christopherlawson1066]

What a great interview of my favorite band. Jim Peterik is the best! I was in military commando training in the 80’s in Singapore and our motivational song was “Eye of the Tiger”. This song and Survivor were huge in Asia at the time. The addition of Jimmie Jamison took Survivor to another level and I was hooked for life. This band has no doubt enriched my life with the lyrics that we’re both appropriate and timely.

[@jgramosmainchannel]

The Search is Over: greatest ballad of my high school years! That song has a KILLER BRIDGE. 🤘🏼🥰🤘🏼

[@rythmnman1]

Absolutely love “The Search is Over.” I remember buying the 45 single when I was just a kid. Still part of my record library to this day.

[@jameswoodruff7182]

I love every interview with Jim Peterik. He is so talented.

[@ProfessorofRock]

Great guy for sure! Thanks for watching.

[@jamietuggnut3312]

@@ProfessorofRock When are you going to do Joey Mollands, the last surviving member of Badfinger. He isn't getting any younger! 🙂

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

He’s fun.

[@markmiles4359]

The hair throws me off but he has that great blend of talent and intelligence that it takes to create masterpieces.

[@ChessWithMouselip]

Great interview. I think Jim wrote and sang the big hit "Vehicle" with Ides of March way back in 1970. My brother won that as a 45 single from an FM radio station contest in Klamath Falls, Oregon when it came out. Excellent songwriter. That song still is the fastest selling single in Warner Bros history.

[@SopranoPizzaJMFNJ]

Peterik Also Co-Wrote .38 Special's Biggest Hits!

[@DDKaraokeOutlaw]

"Vehicle" is one of my favorite songs to karaoke.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

That’s right. It was hugely popular and peaked at #2 stateside.

[@eyeheartsushi2212]

Holy crap I just streamed that song and of course I recognized it. This Peterik guy is the real deal.

[@dokkenratt]

I met Jimi Jamison once after his performance at Firefest here in the UK, 2011. We had a cigarette together outside of the Welbeck hotel in Nottingham. A nice gentleman who took the time to chat with me and sign my cd covers. RIP Jimi.

[@terrifay388]

Love listening to Professor of Rock. He brings back memories of a better time and fills in the gaps, the unknowns and nuisances of our generations magical music makers. Thank you Prof Rock.

[@CDKLRK]

The Prof is so good. I can't tell you how many times I click the link just to see who he is talking to and find myself inexorably drawn into an amazing interview. Kudos, Professor!!

[@brentwalker574]

I was a teenager throughout the 80s, Survivor's songs carried me through.

[@ikeeelewe4204]

Jimmie's voice blew me away with 'The Search Is Over'. It reminds me of my early adulthood and having a positive outlook for the future. The small company I worked for at the time had a picnic and I heard that song on the drive there and it stuck in my head all day. It makes me think of that day and the great people I worked with.

[@lindahickman8737]

Jimi Jamison was in a Memphis band named The Debuts. He was in high school! A song called “If I Cry” was released … look it up here on KZbin. What a voice 🙂

[@bigredtlc1828]

Survivor played my Ohio college town back in the late 80's. Went to a local bar the night before the concert to see a local band play. They had a small local hit and a decent band. Survivor was in the audience and they got up on stage, played LA Women by the Doors and just blew away the bar. Made me realize how talented a lot of those bands were and we take them for granted. Incredible musicianship.

[@Sagemoon40]

Vital Signs was/is one of my favorite albums every song was a banger. It’s The Singer Not The Song is my favorite on the album, it’s so true that the singer can give a song a whole new feeling. The Search Is Over always takes me back to that boy I thought was the one but we were young and not meant to be. I miss the 80s when a song could make a moment feel real again.

[@sgs1313]

Amen to that, now that I am a singer myself, that song really resonates with me!

[@kellymeade4587]

I loved Survivor in the 80s… my high school years. Had a lot of nice slow dances at homecoming and prom, with some cute high school girls. Couldn’t beat hearing the wonderful ballads of Survivor with Jimi ! My mind goes back there Instantly…what great memories . Thank you, Survivor… for making the 80s a great place to grow up. C/O ‘87 Forever!!!

[@johnshields6852]

I remember these guys, couple of great songs, always on the radio back then, I was 22 in 1982, doesn't seem that long ago. Thanks for the ride back in time.

[@tweitner]

I was listening to some of their music just today and said "they are a woefully underrated band"! Vital Signs is excellent from beginning to end.

[@nadaworldrecords]

No disrespect to Dave Bickler, the frontman who delivered an iconic performance on "Eye of the Tiger", but Jimi Jamison is the reason I love this band. He was the vocalist they achieved the most hits with, and his vocals were so powerful, he really makes you feel the emotional impact of their music. "The Search is Over" and "I Can't Hold Back" are my favorites.

[@Calbear94]

Bickler is every bit part of their sound. He did the Budweiser commercials for a long time.

[@darlamiller5325]

Agree

[@darlamiller5325]

I meant I agree Jimi Jamison made Survivor the band they were. Incredible gift of singing voice

[@danabrewer3676]

Holy mojeez I'm so pleased you brought this band back to proper memory. Having been in high school 83-87, this band made so many songs we loved.

[@blackamerican40]

RIP Jimi 🙏 I still play High On You and Burning Heart from his lead vocals from time to time.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

Great songs.

[@Scott-DJ]

One more thing about Jim.: He & Dennis DeYoung of Styx fame are great friends. If you enjoyed the last couple "comeback" albums from Dennis which came out of the blue...you can thank Jim for getting him back in the studio. He even co-wrote many of the tracks of his two "volunes".

[@SeaMonster111]

Two of the most iconic voices in all of rock.

[@seanswinton6242]

Survivor is top band that played my university's Spring Fling. Their were they the nicest guys and awesome live! It was them, Jason & The Scorchers, and Georgia Satellites. I met them as they warmed up. I talked to Mr. Peterik for a bit. My girlfriend loved them. "Ever Since The World Began" was her favorite song before "The Search Is Over" was released. She and I thought we would be together forever, but going to different colleges changed our paths and we lost touch. It was while at work in a record store her mother came in. I recognized her and we talked. She gave me Tammy's number and we reconnected after many years. We haven't been apart since.

[@eightiesmusic1984]

Not a Survivor fan but this is a great anecdote. Happy for you both. Thanks for sharing.

[@seanr2157]

That entire album was a big part of the soundtrack to my early years. It still makes me feel exactly like I felt from that time in my life. It’s amazing how that works. Great interview and video! Cheers.

[@gioknows]

Jimi Jamison, wow what a voice...one of the best. Survivor knew how to find a singer. I didn't know Jim Peterik was a Burt Bacharach fan, now I know why he wrote such great songs because Burt was the best. Such a great interview. What a revolving door that band had with its members...you can never survive that. See what I did there? Cheers from Ottawa, Canada🍁

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

The search has never ended and it won’t be over soon. Cheers Gio

[@gioknows]

@@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980 Cheers😎

[@Rossturnerphoto]

I enjoyed listening to Jim Peterik’s recounting of Jimmy Jamison’s audition for the band. I had heard part of that interview before, but it was enjoyable, listening to it again. Jim Peterik is a great storyteller, and he’s clearly a great songwriter as well. It was crazy hearing about all the lineup changes at the end of this episode. It’s unfortunate that Jimmy died before the full reunion could happen.

[@martymajewski6177]

IMO, Vital Signs is one of the best AOR albums ever made. I remember at the time, I was/am a huge Journey fan, and I thought "damn, Survivor went out and found themselves a Steve Perry clone", but I grew to appreciate Jimi Jamison on his own. Every single song on that album is amazing!

[@DiverBand]

Amen!

[@user-ps4go7qf8f]

😅 Steve Perry canta muy lindo, pero mi Jimi tenía la voz un poco diferente a la de Perry!

[@johnkatsoudas4767]

The grocery store i work at plays Burning Heart everyday, and I never get tired of listening to it. Survivor has many amazing songs. Their greatest hits is a phenomenal album.

[@davidking7606]

Vital Signs was a favorite of mine as a teenager in the 80's. Would listen to it almost every night as I fell to sleep. I cried when Jimi passed almost 10 years ago. What a voice he had. I watched his Celebration of LIfe ceremony. So many great things were said about him from his friends and family. I highly recommend watching it.

[@crisrose521]

The song “ Jackie Don’t Go “ should have been the first single from the Caught in the Game album for sure . . It is also noteworthy that the MASTER of production Ron Nevison went on to produce the band Heart’s glorious comeback album as well released the following year in 1985 and continued his success with Ozzie’s 1986 album “ The Ultimate Sin “ . I also have a SEALED first issue Vital Signs album which would be cool to have Ron autograph someday . RIP Jimi Jamison , one of my favorites 🙏

[@bobbyhamblen2338]

Too Hot To Sleep is probably one of the most underrated albums of all time. Hardly got any airplay at all due to the label and the management infighting.

[@matgre12]

Agreed! Lots of great songs on that album. 2nd favorite Survivor album next to Vital Signs.

[@dyer2cycle]

Yes, it got similar treatment to Caught In The Game...

[@CapoKabar]

Us true rock vocalists will know Jimi was a master. He, just like Steve Perry, rarely took their songs down in pitch when they sang live. They sang at a full 100 octane every show. Jimi Jamison, Steve Perry, Lou Gramm, Dave Coverdale, Freddie Mercury….these men defined and ruled the 80’s

[@VIDEOHEREBOB]

Jimi Jamison was an amazing singer and consummate belter. He had such a beautiful, soulful, tone quality. When I heard his Baywatch belting vocal, I was blown away.

[@Willie_McBride]

I may be late to this particular part of the Professor’s KZbin presence, but recently I was thinking “ Who THE HELL is Adam Reader?” Well I think every fan of this channel owes it to themselves to do a ‘not so deep dive’, and find out some fascinating stuff on our very own Professor! Including he’s on Spotify… with a ‘swing band’ called The Terks… and Mrs. Reader makes an appearance with some beautiful vocals as well. And not that any of us needs this confirmation, but the praise for Adam’s interviewing prowess coming from the legendary interviewees themselves, let’s you know that we are dealing with a pro’s pro! One minor spoiler alert… Who knew that a member of the Beach Boys gave Adam his moniker of Professor of Rock???!? THE BEACH BOYS!!!

[@ProfessorofRock]

Wow! you've done your homework!

[@Willie_McBride]

@@ProfessorofRock Lol, it was a pleasure Adam! You were literally BORN to do this job. And I’m here for it. I’m about 10 years older than you, (I’m 56), you’re interviewing skills are on par with the best of them. Your knowledge of your subject is the key, and d it’s easy to tell that you’re interviewees are well aware, & I bet they appreciate, knowing that you’re a huge fan, before being a journalist, but you ride that razor thin line expertly. Keep up the fantastic work Prof… Always among my favorite 30 minutes of the day.

[@debbie4503]

​@@ProfessorofRockI'm going hunting for your band!

[@Six-Winged]

What in blasits.. don't do it, its a trick 😂

[@freedompanda9438]

Vital Signs was a surprise album, so solid from first track to last. Have it on vinyl. 👍🏼

[@joetheman74]

I saw these guys live in the early 2000's by accident. I was at Epcot Center in Disney World and while walking through World Showcase by the pavilion across from the American Experience there was a huge line forming. I walked over and asked the man at the head of the line watching the entrance rope what was going on. He said Survivor was about to perform and they were just getting ready to open the seating area. He opened the rope and told us to go in. Then everyone else in line funneled in behind us. Right place right time my GF and I got to go in first and we ran right for the front row seats. The show was amazing and completely not what I expected. I knew all their hits but I had never heard them performed like this. All their album recordings suffered from that "80's sound" where the guitars were more muted and subdued and the synth was more out front. Not so live. They performed these songs WAAAYYYY more heavy then anything on their albums. It was like hearing these classic hits fresh and new. When I got home that night at like 2am I hopped online and started trying to find modern re-recordings of these classics. Nothing existed. I wish Survivor had jumped on the trend of re-recording their classics and re-releasing them like so many other bands did in the mid 2000's to mid 2010's. I would love to be able to hear those recordings redone with a new heavy edge. It was amazing.

[@jimstamatic]

When they played at the University of Florida in the early 80s, I was on the student production crew. The outdoor concert was Friday, and they wanted to do something fun Thursday night. One of the students on our crew invited them to a party at his fraternity. Their manager accepted the invitation, but then the student said, "The band can come but no roadies." I thought that was an uncool thing to say, so while still on the phone with their manager, I spoke up and said, "My fraternity is having a social with the hottest sorority on campus tonight, and your roadies are more than welcome to come." As it turns out, Frankie's brother Rocko was a roadie, so the band came to our fraternity house and partied. They were very nice and posed for pictures with whomever asked, and I think they had fun. I spent a lot of time talking with Jimi then and the next day at the concert. He was a warm and humble guy, friendly to everyone.

[@ZoahLord]

Survivor's contributions to the Rocky IV soundtrack are some of the essential sounds of the 80s, but Jimi's voice still reminds me of Saturday evenings (Baywatch airing time in the UK) during the 90s

[@UberLummox]

🤣 YUCKY!

[@UberLummox]

🤣 YUCKY!

[@gregwasserman2635]

I remember when this band hit MTV in 1982. It was such a huge hit, and was on MTV constantly, on part because it was the theme for "Rocky III". I mean, geez, who didn't want to see the movie with Mr. T as the angry antagonist in those days? Then they vanished. I never knew at the time that the lead singer blew his voice out. The band deserved better back then. Then they reappeared later in the decade and I hardly knew they had a new singer, in part because they not been on the radio for several years. That, and I was listening to more metal by that point!

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

I heard about Dave getting throat surgery and having to leave the band.

[@MFINS1384]

So just to make a correction in the story. Survivor did tour with both lead singers Jimi Jamison and Dave Bickler along with Frankie Sullivan in 2013. I saw them at two shows one being the Halfway Jam in MN of July that year. So it wasn’t just a rumor it actually happened.. Incredibly sad that Jimi passed away a year later but am so happy I got to see him live before his passing..

[@fasteddie9107]

You need to showcase the talent that Frankie Sullivan and Jim Peterik had together, all the hits they wrote for other bands is amazing. They are the two that I wish would have buried the hatchet because they are right up there with Simon and Garfunkel, Lennon and McCartney. From all of 38 special hits hold on loosely, fantasy girl, rocking into the night. Their talents and gift for writing hit songs are simply amazing. I had the privilege of growing up in the suburbs of Chicago in the late 70’s , seeing them in the bars is something that I will remember forever. Class act all the way.

[@cammygram1]

Absolutely loved Jimmie J's voice. I think they only got better with him!

[@revwillyg6450]

It was the SAME voice 😂

[@bobdavis4848]

@@revwillyg6450 What do you mean? Jimi Jamison and Dave Bickler did not have the same voice.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

He was their Lou Gramm to top it all off.

[@PatrickLongworth]

@@revwillyg6450 Are you a fan of Survivor or a troll? From the start to the finish of the studio albums, it was clear lead vocals were mostly one person, first was Dave then Jimi took over.

[@andrewmoore1488]

So glad I found this channel. Love the takes on all these different things and the peak behind the bands/singers and music. Thanks for the amazing content.

[@MattCermak23]

Great video from The Professor (as always). Survivor is one of the most underrated bands of the 80's and Jimi is one of the best rock singers of the 80's. Even though Too Hot to Sleep wasn't a top-performing album on the charts, "Didn't know it was love" and "Across The Miles" are two of their greatest songs. "Didn't know it was love" was vintage Jimi!

[@lobitome]

Across The Miles is a great song.

[@sanoon4887]

💯

[@ShelleybutyoucancallmeShell]

Loved this interview and the camaraderie between the two of you! It was like you two have been great friends forever, reminiscing.

[@a.f.s.3004]

Working out in a suburban Chicago gym jammin’ Eye of the Tiger on my airpods… I look up and the guy who wrote the song is on the machine next to me,,Jim Peterek! Peterek also founded the Ides Of March bandbin the 60’s. Chicagoland Legend. 😎

[@nickmelara78]

I think Jimi combined the best qualities of Steve Perry and Lou Gramm. To me, his greatest performances are Across the Miles and A Man Against the World.

[@pblogic007]

I think, for me, "I can't hold back" is the best song that came out of the 80's. For me personally, when I hear it I feel like a kid again and all of the magic of the 80's comes rushing back. No other song makes me feel as energized or alive.

[@amycollins8832]

Survivor is well remembered and loved by many fans in the Chicago metro area! (Even before Eye of the Tiger) Have a listen to "Somewhere in America" "Let it Be Now" "Poor Man's Son" "Summer Nights" and "Rebel Girl" from their first two albums. Thanks, Professor of Rock and WLUP "The Loop", the station the introduced me to Survivor!

[@ericstewart9499]

Absolutely love Survivor. Every album is fantastic. Sucks that Jim Jamison passed. Broken Promises and Desperate Dreams are 2 of my favorites

[@andrewcanady6644]

You named my fave by them: Desperate Dreams.

[@jayneubauer3401]

Jim Peterik has recently been working with Dennis DeYoung, formerly of Styx! What a pairing!!

[@PeterRabbit70]

jaynebauer3401, Almost too good to be true. Lord knows we need it. The devil worshipping grammys was too much to bear.

[@RevJay_Rides]

I still can hardly believe I saw KANSAS and SURVIVOR opened for them the same year I saw JOURNEY and BRYAN ADAMS opened for them. Wow! What a great year for music! I was there for it, brother!!

[@kevinwalsh4652]

I saw Kansas here in Providence, winter 1978, I'm not sure, perhaps Walter Eghan opened, regardless, I have a funny Brian Adams story: I'm 65, lived through the disco era, which actually were great songs, Adams had a huge hit song, "let me take you dancing", he was so embarrassed by it, it's all but wiped clean off the internet, I do remember leaving Kansas concert bummed out, they didn't play "what's on my mind", apart from "portrait"(he knew) my favorite Kansas song.

[@retromom5421]

Survivor had the hits because the emotion, the passion, the powerful voice brought it! A little over the top as the 80s era was, but it was real. Great interview and a great time bringing back the memories.

[@matthewlee6168]

I loved Survivor as a teen in the 80's! I remember going with a friend to see them in concert at the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo of all places. Their music has really held up to the test of time and makes me so nostalgic when I hear it.

[@marathoner43]

So many great tunes from their albums that were never released as singles. I absolutely love "I See You In Everyone" from Vital Signs, "Across The Miles" from Too Hot To Sleep, and "I Never Stopped Loving You" from Caught In The Game. If you go back before Eye Of The Tiger to their album Premonition, "Summer Nights" is amazing.

[@danbologna7894]

Don't forget Poor Man's Son, love that song too!

[@ChicagoDB]

I actually had forgotten the song “The Search Is Over” - but it’s one I loved back then and still love it. I can’t even remember what I most remember it from…I never used to buy records back then…or watch many videos…was it featured in a movie back then?

[@Whisper_292]

Jimmie Jameson had the voice of an angel. I Can't Hold Back still resonates with me.

[@ProfessorofRock]

I caught my 12 year old listening to it yesterday!

[@Whisper_292]

@@ProfessorofRock Kid's got good taste!

[@bobdavis4848]

Yes, Jimi Jamison was a great singer.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

I am so obsessed with I Can’t Hold Back. I’m about to enter my senior year in high school. This past year I can think of like 5 or 10 times where I immediately started humming the tune to I Can’t Hold Back without realizing it. It’s got that secret ingredient, that irresistible charm.

[@NuttyButtery846]

This was literally one of the best CDs of the decade. One of those rarities where nearly every song was great (Moment of Truth was meh but it was on a European released CD). I was living in Spain at the time of its release and remember cruising around Madrid with it just blasting.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

I’ve been wanting to go to Madrid and Barcelona for so long now! I heard it’s beautiful over there.

[@be-art-iful1215]

I loved the album Vital Signs! Jimi's vocals were pure, strong, electric, and hauntingly beautiful. To me, this album surpassed Eye of the Tiger by quite a bit. It was one of the albums I could play every song and not be disappointed. Thank you, Adam, for this episode. Time to go listen, once again, to Vital Signs. 😊

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

Vital Signs sure is re-vital-izing.

[@apj341]

Too bad the drugs got him. RIP JJ ! Listened to this cassette until it wore out !!

[@kristitimbrel189]

Awe......Love Survivor!!! When Vital Signs came out, I was driving Arizona to Utah. A late night DJ announced the new release of the album, and said he was going to play it front to back, non-stop because it was that great. I drove listening to this whole album, completely blown away! The music carried me through that long desert drive. When I made my destination, I went and bought that album! I am a huge fan of Vital Signs! ❤ Great interview! Great unknown tidbits! Thank you Adam, for keeping this music alive!!!

[@eugenehewitt2917]

Thank you for doing this. Survivor has always been my favorite band. They never made a bad song for me. Too Hot to Sleep was an incredibly underrated and under appreciated album. Desperate Dreams became my favorite song of theirs, and Vital Signs was my favorite album. Didn’t Know It Was Love was another huge song off the album. JP kept the theme of fire and heat all throughout the album. You are missing out on a gem here. Also, on When Seconds Count the title track and In Good Faith are wonderful songs, some of the band’s best ever. Their catalog is the greatest IMO. Thank you again.

[@alexp6016]

I’ve recently become a huge fan of Survivor. They’re painfully underrated and under recognized. I just picked up the Vital Signs CD the other day. Such an awesome album… Jimi Jamison is one of the best singers of all time. Also no clue how Caught in the Game did so poorly… it’s the song that turned me onto Survivor.

[@ProfessorofRock]

He really is. I agree on Caught in the Game. What's our fave track from he album?

[@dyer2cycle]

That album had MANY great songs on it..Santa Ana Winds is my personal favorite...

[@alexp6016]

@@ProfessorofRock The title track is one of my all time favorites from Survivor. I also really like Jackie Don't Go.

[@charlespiefer4244]

Vital Signs is amazing! Loved it when it came out.

[@danmartin7186]

Vital Signs is one of those albums that is all great tracks, not a throwaway song on either side. And every song is 500% better than EOTT, which is one of the most overplayed songs ever.

[@wbychowski]

I first met Jim Peterik back in the early '70's when my band opened a show for his band. We've crossed paths quite a few times over the years since. He is one of the one of the most generous, pure gentlemen in the business.

[@johnmcginnis2410]

I have always felt that Jim Peterik has never gotten the recognition he deserves as one of the greatest songwriters of the rock era. He has written so many great songs not only for his own bands but for many others as well. Most people would be surprised to learn how many of their favorite songs were collaborations by Jim with the bands that recorded them.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

Don’t forget his 1970 hit!

[@johnmcginnis2410]

@@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980 I could never forget his first hit. Vehicle is still one of my favorites.

[@johnmcginnis2410]

@The_Professor_OfRock I'd be happy to talk to you but I don't know how to do that on here other than replying to comments.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

@@johnmcginnis2410Such a groovy and cool song!

[@laurieanncox7844]

Love them all, Chicago and Survivor are in my top favorite bands. My favorite song though was from the Premonitions album, Summer Nights.