Band HATED Cheesy Ballad They Were FORCED Into…Until Singer SCORCHED the 1st Take!-Professor of Rock

In the 70s, Cheap Trick went on a crazy commercial rollercoaster through the music industry. Starting off slow with their first few records, they unexpectedly rose to the top of the tracks with a foreign import Live at Budokan. From there this band with the scorching duo of singer Robin Zander and Guitarist Rick Nielsen piled up platinum hits consistently and it seemed like they would coast right through the 80s. But then They HIT A WALL. Cheap Trick plummeted and their next five albums would all be… underwhelming…So in a last ditch effort to save this band’s career, their label hired a team of outside songwriters to basically write the album for them. 1988’s album Lap of Luxury. THIS didn’t go over well with the band. but from it came the band’s biggest chart hit EVER. The Flame. A smash power ballad that ruled the summer of 1988. Although loved by listeners, Cheap Track actually hated the song so much when they first heard it, their guitarist smashed the demo tape under the heel of his boot. This episode is a hell of a ride. Get ready next of Professor of Rock.
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Hey music junkies, Professor of Rock, always here to celebrate the greatest artists and the greatest songs of all time. if you remember having a tv dinner in front of the boob tube back in the day you’ll dig this channel of pure musical nostalgia make sure to subscribe below right now. and check the notifcations so you get our new interviews and stories. We also have a Patreon you'll want to check out. There you’ll find an additional catalog of exclusive content and you can even become an honorary producer to help us curate this music history.
For today’s episode we’re covering a comeback band who made it big in the 70s, fell out of the spotlight, and then made it even bigger in the late 80s with a song the band hated but the fans loved. It’s Cheap Trick, and the story of their 1988 mega-smash The Flame. Cheap Trick was comprised of Robin Zander on lead vocals and guitar, Rick Neilsen on lead guitar, Tom Petersson on bass, and Bun E. Carlos on drums. They released their eponymous debut album on February 3, 1977… Unfortunately, the album went nowhere and was virtually unnoticed in the US… failing to break into the Billboard 200 and selling only about 150,000 copies.
From there, things didn’t get much better. Their next two offerings, 1977’s ‘In Color' and 1978’s ‘Heaven Tonight’ at least reached the Billboard Albums Chart. But going to #73 & #48 wasn’t much to brag about. That being said, Heaven Tonight did feature the Cheap Trick essential track ‘Surrender.’Three albums in, Cheap Trick had yet to make much of a mark. But the silver lining through all this was they had built up a cult-like following in Japan. yes they were big in japan! There their albums were going Gold and fans treated them like rock royalty. So later in 1978, in a move to capitalized on the Far East fan-base, the band released Cheap Trick at Budokan. The record was recorded live in Japan and was initially intended only for overseas release. But it actually became so popular in Japan that Cheap Trick’s label Epic opted to release it as an import in the States.
It would turn out to be their breakthrough record. Reaching a lofty #4 on the Billboard 200, the collection was powered by their well-known live version of I Want You to Want Me. Cheap Trick at Budokan

[@ProfessorofRock]

Poll: What is your pick for the greatest ballad of the 80s?

[@christineml1476]

"Don't Know What You Got (Till It's Gone)" by Cinderella

[@BillGraper]

"Total Eclipse Of The Heart" by Bonnie Tyler, according to my all-time favorite songs list. I have it #1 for 1983, and #6 overall.

[@thetitleisours1]

Every Rose has its Thorn. It popularized a catch phrase we still used today

[@TheSlowoldman]

I don't know about greatest but an underrated one is Heaven by Warrant

[@catherine6653]

Never Tear Us Apart- INXS

[@JT_O4]

Cheap Trick was my older sister’s favorite band in the 70s. I met Cheap Trick in the summer 1988, when I was 19. I was flying from Chicago to LA in coach and instantly recognized Rick when he boarded the plane. I was determined to get his autograph. I had a pen on me, but didn’t have any paper. So, after the plane took off I grabbed a barf bag and headed back to Rick. When I handed him the barf bag Rick said, “A barf bag, this so appropriate!” He was so gracious and pointed out where the other band members were sitting. By the time I got to Robin, I had decided that I was going to give the autographed barf bag to my sister for her birthday that month. I told Robin my sister had a huge crush on him (which she did) and had posters of him all over her room (which she did), and that his autograph was was going to be a gift for my sister. He signed it “Happy Birthday, Chris. Go Wild!” Then, he asked me where I was from. He could tell I was in the military and thanked me for my service. He was such a nice guy as was the whole band. Since then, I’ve been able to see Cheap Trick twice and my sister still has her Cheap Trick barf bag!

[@JamminClemmons]

- Great story.... Thanks for sharing. Why did they boot the original drummer?

[@kenwhitener985]

Awesome !

[@JT_O4]

@@JamminClemmons I am not sure. The current drummer is Rick’s son.

[@stevelacker358]

Oh, geez…. I HATED “The Flame” with a purple passion when it came out. I can sit through it now, but it still doesn’t sound like Cheap Trick to me.

[@JT_O4]

@@stevelacker358 I hear ya. Their raw sound live is amazing. Dream Police is my personal favorite. Still tho, The Flame cemented the band as iconic.

[@MaryLouiseEklund]

I am a wife of a submarine officer USA - he served on a boomer. For those who don't know they submerge with no communications for three months then home for three months as another crew takes the boat (yes submarines are boats) Any way his first deployment was in 1988. I dropped him off dark of early morning - driving home to an apartment in a town I didn't know filled with moving boxes yet to unpack. I was alone, unemployed, knew no one and The Flame which was new came on the radio and I cried to it on that lonely drive... still take me back to that early morning and the pain of being a wife of the silent service.

[@ponzo1967]

They didn't want to do The Flame but they did it very well. Robin is a gifted singer and still sounds great today.

[@ProfessorofRock]

Did you recently see them live?

[@pattonmoore]

I think The Flame actually sounds like a Cheap Trick song. Always have. Until today I thought it was just a song they wrote in order to sound more contemporary (late 80s), which was almost the truth.

[@ponzo1967]

@@ProfessorofRock no I was watching him on Live at Daryl's House. He came in and just killed it on vocals, very impressive.

[@vicvega3614]

​@@ProfessorofRockmy friend went Saturday night at PPG paints arena in Pittsburgh, they opened for Rod Stewart and opened with magical mystery tour (beatles cover) first and he said they rocked and also did some older blues covers too. Rod Stewart apparently cut songs and only played 20 songs and disappointed but guess Rod has had some health problems

[@robpaxson4455]

@@ProfessorofRocksaw them 2 years ago, unfortunately Tom was recovering from heart surgery I believe and wasn’t there, but Robin sounded amazing as always

[@davidce3rash]

Saw Cheap Trick live twice. First time in their hay day in the 70's, then again in 2005. Loved both shows. Another great band from our time.

[@audibletapehiss3764]

What stands out to me is that a record label was so invested in a band that, even after 5 unsuccessful records in a row, at the tail end of a 15 year career, they pulled out all the stops - songwriters, money, time, and even hand holding. Nowadays if you're not gold, Pony Boy, they ain't gonna help you. They won't even hold the exit door open.

[@nemoretime7466]

I liked the releases off "one on one" album because of the videos on MTV but they probably didn't help the band to sell a lot of records.

[@yaimavol]

And they're probably going to tell you what songs to record.

[@dont_follow5777]

​@@nemoretime7466love that album

[@juliethompson8685]

Cheap Trick was gold.

[@johnnyxmusic]

And you’ll owe them a ton of cash. Incorporate and declare bankruptcy. 😂😂😂

[@philipbolin6776]

I don't get why anybody would dislike this song. It's a great song

[@mournblade1066]

Cheap Trick was such a visually enigmatic band: Two dudes with long hair, a guy with a goofy baseball cap, and a stoic-looking dude who always had a cigarette hanging from his mouth. And the music was really fun. The use of their song, "Reach Out," in the 1981 cartoon _Heavy Metal_ was totally inspired.

[@travismiles5885]

I liked how the drummer dressed like a guy who worked in an office building in accounting or something and always had to rush to the gig in his work clothes because his supervisor made him work later and never had time to change into stage clothes.

[@ProfessorofRock]

Good call. They had a look and feel unlike anyone out there! Have you 'em live?

[@mournblade1066]

@@ProfessorofRock No, never saw them live.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

It shows you that anyone could have had a hit back then, even those who looked like homeless people.

[@davidwelsh4918]

@@ProfessorofRock They are still awesome live... sound better than their recorded albums... highly recommend seeing them.

[@Skirliegirl]

My all time favourite song of the 80s....we'd never heard of Cheap Trick in the UK before then, but it started a love of the band and Robin's voice still makes me tingle all over!❤

[@laraschauble]

I absolutely love The Flame!! I'm so glad they gave it a second chance and recorded the song ❤❤❤

[@constancewessel3906]

This song and Robin's vocals were meant for each other. Gives me chills every time I hear it. Such a classic!

[@rockymountboy]

Their two tracks in the Heavy Metal soundtrack are always overlooked and effin ROCK!

[@cherylmaden5989]

Yup that's how I discovered em. But of course I want you was every girls top ten songs😂❤✨🖤🫶

[@shawnclark764]

true. enjoyed all of their work. Saw them again recently. They still have it.

[@thetitleisours1]

I saw Cheap Trick in concert for many years. Always liked the way he sung "I want you to want me". They had a unique look that stuck out back then

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

That song is catchy!

[@net2000man]

THIS is why I LOVE this channel! Covering many of my favorite bands and icons, and doing it honestly and reverently. Adam, you are a true gem, and we love your content, Brother. I remember seeing Cheap Trick in the mid 70's at the Westchester Premier Theater, a very small and intimate venue, and as a teenager it was such a thrill catching one of Rick Nielsen's picks (he threw them into the crowd by the scores). He really inspired me to play the guitar, and even though I have never felt the need to step foot on a stage to perform, I am eternally grateful for that gentle push to pursue my artistic side. Cheap Trick is the real deal, and they will ALWYS have a very special place in my heart. Great job, as always, Professor!!!

[@andreabradley5837]

My son was born in 87. When he first started to crawl, it was to "The Flame" he would dance to it while crawling. The lyrics are timeless and so is the music. Thank god for these unrecognized writers! Also I still have my tee from 86 tour! Fun show.

[@charlesheit4880]

Robin Zanders' vocals on this song send chills up and down my spine EVERY time I hear it. Magnifique!!

[@janettebelleville6606]

Goosebumps when he hits that high note…….still does it for me all these years later. 🇦🇺❤️

[@johnstewart2877]

My wife and I went to see Kings of Chaos a few years ago, Robin was touring with them, about half way through the concert he walked on stage just him an acoustic guitar, and the spot light, he played The Flame, it was one of the best songs I have ever heard done live, you could some of the other band members on the side stage taking his performance in also.... great memory....

[@cherylmaden5989]

Totally unrelated, my ex husband and I went to see Train at Sun fest in West Palm, and they played Come Together ( Aerosmith) and OMG the entire crown was just standing there with their mouths hanging open!😂 And I have seen Aerosmith live a bunch of times..but man am I happy I was there that day. They kilt it

[@BillGraper]

I still remember the first time I heard "The Flame." We didn't have cable TV until early 1989. I was at my friend John's house (they lived diagonally behind us), and we were watching MTV. This song came on, and we both loved it! We knew it would be huge. My older sister was on her honeymoon, and they heard it for the first time on the radio. They loved it, too. 😎

[@ProfessorofRock]

Hey Bill!

[@Limited_Light]

Finally, someone else that admits not everyone (a large swath of the US) didn't have cable all through the 80s.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

It was pretty strong for a comeback hit.

[@georgehuffert1800]

Did you hear any of there previous work or was it your first hearing them

[@BillGraper]

@@georgehuffert1800 I knew their 70's hits "I Want You To Want Me" and "Dream Police."

[@LBart218]

If they hated having to record this song you'd never know it by what an amazing job they did with it. True professionals, and the reason why it became a hit.

[@theeteecee]

The Flame is one of my all time favourite songs, I cried a lot of tears curled on my bed listening to it. I still absolutely LOVE it & make my grandbabies dance with me to it. I miss power ballads!!

[@LarryLancasterEville]

Your little circles giving me Lisa Loeb vibes. I'm o' guitarist n play lots of cheap trick n just about anything I want anything I hear anyway. I'm also a great-grandfather to twin boys😊 named Jace and Connor Lancaster. Wish I could have a girl like you... I bet you're awesome.

[@onesix9904]

Robin is one of the few vocalist that sounds as good if not better live than in the studio … They might not have liked the song but they sure did it justice! A classic

[@vehicle22]

Rick Nielson and his 5 neck guitar. Gotta love it!

[@ProfessorofRock]

So cool! Have you ever seen them live?

[@vehicle22]

@@ProfessorofRock No, haven't had the pleasure. But I really enjoy songs with great guitar work, and players like Steve Vai with his three-neck "beast" and Nielson's 5-neck custom fascinate me--especially when you are so talented one of them can be fret-less. Amazing.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

Yup.

[@Mickerdoo]

Love this song so much. As an adult it’s so freeing to just openly loudly proclaim your love for 80s love ballads. Fist pumping all day!

[@christyhubbard8074]

Saw them a few years ago in concert and these guys rocked!! So fantastic live. Thanks Professor for shining a light on them.

[@ProfessorofRock]

Rock on!

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

Awesome! Rock on 🤘

[@brianknapp6215]

​@@ProfessorofRock I'm a little disappointed you didn't mention "Reach Out"- the band's contribution to the _Heavy Metal_ soundtrack (from the "Captain Stern" segment!)

[@GuitaristPAX]

​​@@brianknapp6215Also they had their music featured in a pseudo Sci-Fi animated film called "Rock & Rule" that also featured Iggy Pop and Debbie Harry among others .. it was pretty f'n cool.

[@brianknapp6215]

@@GuitaristPAX Aaah- _Rock & Rule..._ another Canadian animated gem.

[@solteroplayer]

This song is the reason I got into Cheap Trick. I was 15 in 88 and had missed their 70's stuff. I started delving into their back catalog. So many good memories of hitting the record store and picking up another Cheap Trick cassette then taking it home and listening to it over and over. If had the pleasure of seeing them in concert, it would probably be about 15 times. Most recently, back in April when they played another great set even as they are into their 70's.

[@csh43166]

I think "The Flame" is a beautiful song, and so well done by Mr. Zander. ❤️

[@MJmysummerlove]

“The Flame” is definitely among the best ballads of the decade and beyond. Actually, the 80s had the best ballads, overall.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

Especially for power ballads.

[@mikepalmer1971]

Just too damn many of them. Lol.

[@geraldfriend256]

Still 70s for me.

[@dougford5259]

If Robin Zander's voice doesn't give you chills, you might be dead.

[@CherylBattista]

Very underrated 😢 great vocals ❤

[@bretthardin9239]

sounded as good live 2 years ago as ever

[@juliettewood2969]

Oh yeah!!

[@limogerry]

The song sucks.

[@BigBri550]

Yeah I should have listed Robin Zander as one of the most underrated vocalists in the Rock era. That was in another PoR video.

[@friguy4444]

WOW!! Finally he covered the boys!!! Yay!!! Thank you prof for getting to the guys after all. Zander totally makes the song IMHO and I think it's very similar in its content to "I Walk the Line" even though the two songs are nothing alike any other way. But both are speaking to the deep long haul of a love that goes on for years if not forever. Very emotional. Personally it's one of the least liked by me out of their hit list. Lol. But I'm a huge CT fan!!! 😊😊❤❤❤🎉❤

[@RaymondBCrisp]

Saw Cheap Trick as a free concert at an amusement park a couple decades ago. It remains one of the best shows I've ever seen.

[@scottangel6462]

Just saw them live for the forth of July. This was one I was waiting to hear and they did not disappoint. Robin's vocals live were on point and awesome!!!

[@javiermoretti1825]

I saw them last summer. Robin can still sing, to be sure, but the rest of the band was just going through the motions. And the lack of a keyboardist on a number of songs made them sound hollow.

[@RobertL_0563]

Truly The Flame is a phenomenal hit and resurrected Cheap Trick's career. 100% agree no one but Robin Zander could've given the vocals the rawness the song deserves.

[@dpid98]

"The Flame" was a nominee for our high school graduation class song. I remember feeling so excited to see it on the list. And yes, I did vote for this song, not because it had anything to do with graduating from high school, but because it was the best song on the list.😎

[@pinger5000]

I love Cheap Trick, They were always hard working and great in concert. How did songs like "voices" not do better"." Way of the world" was awesome. Zander has a great voice and all the bandmates had such personality! I still have Live at Budakon!

[@mr.g1758]

I've always loved "Borderline."

[@brettliebermanmusic]

I got this on tape when it came out. Being only around 8 at that time, I thought they were a cool new band. 😅 Glad this album opened the door of exploring their earlier catalog. Such an amazing band.

[@andrewlayne4494]

Cant hear this without going back to a space in time. Wouldnt have wanted anyone else to do it. Absolutely amazing.

[@kmaterne]

Came out the year i graduated. Cant tell you how many slow dances, i danced to that song.

[@ScooterOnHisWay2024]

Nobody does this stuff better than The Professor of Rock! Thanks for all you do!

[@michaelrochester48]

They did have one album in the early 80s that was heavily shown on MTV, then had the small sized hit She’s Tight! That song is one of my favorites

[@mournblade1066]

"She's Tight" is actually the song that introduced me to Cheap Trick.

[@fivestring65ify]

That's one of my favorites

[@DDKaraokeOutlaw]

The album One On One (1982).

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

I agree. Great song.

[@kylewoolsey6635]

To me I hear Robin doing his best Roy Orbison, especially when he sings “over youoooooo”. So good.

[@draculasdaughter36]

I always loved Power Ballads because they made non-rockers look and show some appreciation too my favourite bands. This is definitely one of the all time best! 👏 👏 👏

[@ssadelaidian3811]

Their 1982 song If You Want My Love is also great. Went to number 2 in Australia.

[@MAG-li5jo]

The Flame is the best thing Robin Zander ever did by far. NO ONE could have done what he did on that song. One of the best vocal performances by anyone ever.

[@revwillyg6450]

The Flame was fluff that appealed to the masses. Yes, it was commercially successful, but so is Cardi B 🤷‍♂️. Nothing touches Surrender or Dream Police for me

[@suzan5533]

Cheap Trick was my first concert when I was 13 years old; they played with Nick Gilder at the swing auditorium in San Bernardino, California. I had a blast and it cemented my love for them band to this day. I still go see them when they play venues in my area, and believe it or not, they still play. The flame was a great song but to me it was not one of my favorites. Too many songs I fell in love with for me to name. Thanks for featuring this I enjoyed it!

[@dranet47]

Robin is definitely one of the most underrated rock vocalists, and he really did shine in this song. I loved it when it came out - my husband hated it. lol Oh well.

[@Geezer-yf8hv]

Truly under rated! Zander rarely comes up in greatest singer lists. Really deserved more recognition for his singing!

[@WolfRun59]

Passionate vocal by Robin was amazing. So glad it got released.

[@TheEricthefruitbat]

The Budokan has been very good to a lot of American acts. Dream Police is one of the greatest songs ever.

[@natetoews2421]

Just saw cheap trick and rod steward last week in Calgary and it was so much fun I was blown away they still sound as good as they did in the 70s it was amazing

[@normanbyrne9868]

One of my favorite bands back in high school to listen to. I bought Lap of Luxury the day it hit stores and listened to it non stop for weeks. And as for the high note at the end of The Flame.. still gives me chills and makes me appreciate Robin's voice that much more. They still rock in concert and put on a great show. Thanks for covering such an important band in my life.

[@Marie-vp8rl]

I've seen them so many times in concert, I still love them to this day. RIP Bun E. Carlos!❤

[@luvsweinerdogs6266]

Bun E. Carlos will be surprised when he finds out he's dead.

[@gregdannels1699]

I so remember when the flame was released, had the album. It may have been number one for 2 weeks on the charts, but was number one for a lot longer where I lived. What a great song!

[@MetalMama-Mimi523]

'The Flame' isn't what we ever expected from Cheap Trick, but it was everything we needed but didn't know we needed so thanks for coming around and recording it. Also, 'Dream Police' is one of my favorites. Such a cool song.

[@aaronrogers1971]

Maybe POR would start a new show: Are They Still Rocking? - shining a light on bands from 30+ years ago and what they're doing now. Just a thought. 😁

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

Psst, with interviews.

[@Embur12]

Always loved their covers, Aint that a shame, Dont be cruel, and Magical mystery tour.They always had a unique sound that they would graft into these tracks.

[@becky3023]

I've always loved Cheap Trick. Growing up, my aunt used to listen to them, hence, my introduction to them (she really, really loved the song Surrender!). My husband is from Illinois, so of course he's a fan! But this song is a hard one for me to listen to even after all these years. The summer of 1988 when it was all over the radio, my dad was diagnosed with stage 4 cancer and was given 1-1/2 months to live, and that is exactly as long as he survived. I had just graduated high school that June and was starting college in the fall, and in between those two events I watched my dad rapidly succumb to his cancer and pass away. Every time I listened to the radio that summer, this song would play. To this day whenever I hear it, I am instantaneously emotionally transported back to that summer. I still really love this song, but I can't always listen to it all the way through. On a more positive note, my husband and I have the Live at Budokan album and love playing that a whole bunch!

[@whitebeardskydaddy6756]

Your comment hits me in the heart. A stranger sheds a tear for you, based upon his own pain. We're all connected.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

I am very sorry for your loss. 😢

[@TheFatalT]

I was lucky enough to see Cheap Trick back in 88, opening for Robert Plant. Absolutely unforgettable.

[@Bratzenthusiast]

One thing I love is that Cheap Trick made the entirety of their Budokan concert into a cd set. So many of their songs sound so extraordinary on the live cds. They also are wonderful in studio versions but the live versions pack a punch.

[@rticle15]

To put salt in the wound, the Top Gun album had another big hit with Loverboy's Heaven in Your Eyes. Cheap Trick was and is a fantastic band. I like their other million hits more than The Flame but I was always happy to see how much success they had with it.

[@DavidSmith-ne1zp]

Robin’s vocals are perfect on this song (and I’m not a ballad guy lol!). He completely NAILED IT!

[@keithcummings3260]

When I moved to Rockford, everyone I met said they personally knew Rick Nielsen - and was either his best friend in high school or hated his guts.

[@NorthernUnion13]

One of my favourite songs of all time. Incredible song.

[@troubledspirit3328]

One off my bucket list. Thank you Cheap Trick. Amazing band. Thank you Sir for this reaction

[@rickrickard2788]

While I've always been one who respected artists who write & create their own songs- I have zero issues w/them doing OP songs, as long as they meet one specific criteria- They have to MAKE IT THEIR OWN. They need to put THEIR DNA on the song, and own it. And that's what they did- That acoustic guitar, simple as it may be, is powerful. Today, they call it, "The Vibe". This song instantly brings a feeling, most human beings can relate to: Nostalgia, regret or a warm memory, what-might-have-been moments. This was Robins full voice, emotion & intensity on full display, for all to see. You told us there was a decade between successes- This song WILL be a part of a hit movie/show- it's only a matter of time. The way movies/shows are atm? It's a good thing, imo, it's not found it's place. Hopefully this will change soon, for both of these. I asked several months ago if you might cover this one- Glad you did. Maybe by doing so, you just inspired true artists across the globe, to give this treasure another look.

[@acertainkindoflight]

Check this song out Live (yes- especially now). It’s the best way to appreciate it. -Or any of their songs, for that matter. Whether they wrote them or not. You should get to a show, Professor! Why not review their Sgt. Pepper Live album while you’re at it? Love your channel, btw.

[@casadimilano7048]

I was 16 years old in Australia when the song was number one, I absolutely hated it because it was played so much on the radio. But you make me like it now. That’s my experience with this song.

[@russward2612]

I used to roadie for a band that covered Surrender. They always got a great reception for that but, when you have such good source material, that isn't hard. I also love their contributions to the Heavy Metal 1980 soundtrack.

[@mlwilliam213]

I’m not a huge fan of power ballads, but I am a huge fan of great songs. This song is great, and obviously a perfect vehicle for the singer. It’s one of those that probably wouldn’t have been as big with someone else singing it. I can’t imagine how anyone could hear that vocal and not be excited to be a part of it.

[@surlechapeau]

Thank you Japan, for helping bring Cheap Trick to the masses!! I wore out side two of the 'At Budokan' record!!! "California Man" is a great song off of 'Heaven Tonight' that should have fared better.

[@TheSlowoldman]

GREAT song!!!!

[@ProfessorofRock]

Vaguely remember it! I'll go re listen! Thanks!

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

I missed that one.

[@MarleneJonesCannon]

If the band stops playin' there's a juke box down the hall.

[@surlechapeau]

@@MarleneJonesCannon And with your blue dress on, your folks all gone. You're sure to give the guys a ball.

[@jamesweible5357]

I really miss the power ballad, such great songs to jam to, sing to, play when you are romancing, karaoke, all sorts of great applications, and they stand the test of time!

[@Markie7731]

Seeing them perform this song live is still my favorite and most emotional performance of any band ever.

[@Heritagejim5339]

Saw CT the first time at a high school in Naperville Il in 76! Been a fan ever since. As for that note I have the same reaction. Feeling power I agree AC/DC does it for me as well. I heard Powerage in 77 and loved them as well😎

[@BrakRulesAll]

I got to see Cheap Trick at a tiny venue for a private party in 2008, standing a few feet away from the band. Wow. Had no idea who the musical goest would be, then I walk in and see Bun's drum kit and knew what was coming. What a fantastic performance.

[@RC32Smiths01]

Ahh, it truly is intriguing when the most popular music of an artist or band tends to be some of their least liked. Still such a legendary band for sure!

[@ProfessorofRock]

I agree. I myself love the Flame! Great ballad. Thanks Rc32!

[@RC32Smiths01]

@@ProfessorofRock It's awesome absolutely!

[@mournblade1066]

Isn't that so often the case? Just goes to show that the "masses" represent mediocrity. I mean, take Genesis's "I Can't Dance" (which is, of course, abysmal) versus, say, "Mama." Which one charted higher? 'nuff said.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

And the song wasn’t bad at all! These stories are very fascinating.

[@craigpierce7996]

Being power rock dominated from the seventies, I did not take a big shine to most of the music of the eighties. But now being older, I appreciate it much more! Please keep bringing these littl' master-blasters from the past!

[@67marlins]

Thank you for posting.....I recall this song from Summer 1988, truly a great power ballad !

[@rayquintal403]

Seen them open for KISS and when this song was played by Cheap Trick the place really got into it. My brother turn to me and said you like this soft stuff. I said if the girls are into it, well you can’t argue with that. Truth is it’s one of my Favs of theirs.

[@jagsnumberone88]

Saw the Lap of Luxury tour, early in the tour. The Flame had just been released and a good friend of mine was the promoter for the show. It was a smaller venue (The Florida Theater in Jacksonville). He got me backstage passes and I got to meet the band after the show. Rick asked me how I liked the show, and I told him how much I loved it but was surprised they didn't play their current single "The Flame". He told me how they hated that song and were made to record it and would probably never play it live. I told them that's too bad because they did a great job on it and it sounded like a Cheap Trick version of a ballad (for some reason I brought up "Voices" from Dream Police, but I'm not sure why/lol). I also said that there were many fans who were there to hear that song, and if it becomes a big hit, that future shows will have many in the audience there to hear that song. And when they leave the show, they will be talking about how you didn't play their favorite song instead of how great the rest of the show was even if they loved the show (which they will). He thought for a minute and said, " yeah, will probably have to play that song in a couple more shows down the road. We probably should start rehearsing it". I'm glad they've added it to their set list and play it regularly now. Now, if they would only play a couple of other songs regularly (If you want my love, She's tight, Voices, and Tonight it's you, just to name a few/lol). And for the record, Robin sounds great still.

[@MichaelAllen-yf9zp]

Very good information. I turned 18 in September of 1976. Being from the hills of east Tennessee I was in awe of everything Westcoast!! I Didn't know anyone other than my shipmates. I'm exploring Downtown San Diego and I see a theater sign, CHEEP TRICK w/ special guest Pat Travers. I'm sure that was the smallest venue they ever played, no more than 300 seats. WOW!!! My friend Jeff Dickinson and I saw what to me was one of the best shows ever! The Pat Travers band was awesome!! However, Cheep Trick was phenomenal!! I've been lucky enough to have seen them three times and they have never failed to be amazing!! There GREAT!! GREAT Work professor. TY!!

[@josephtzougros901]

I was at a Cheap Trick concert in 89 that was getting rained out in the middle of the show so they had to cut it short. They asked the audience what one final song they wanted to hear. I was screaming surrender at the top of my lungs, but the younger, teenagers were demanding for them to sing the flame. It must be one of the only times they didn’t sing surrender.

[@onemangang2010]

I lived near Rockford IL for a time and was working at a retal establishment there in the early 2000s and every Thursday when he was in town Rick Nielsen would stop in to shop. Such a humble guy. He would take time out of his day and chat with us about music and what-not. One if the coolest moments in my life

[@johnclonch738]

I can't see anyone doing the flame except Robin he freaking nailed that song, when I first heard it it was love at first ear, lol

[@Winston_Smith_84]

I was 14 in ‘88 and had Lap of Luxury on cassette and I remember cranking The Flame on my Walkman while teaching myself to drive my Dad’s ‘46 Ford flatbed 3- speed in the field behind my house. That’s all I got.

[@garyeckel1656]

I will take Cheap Trick love ballads over Aerosmith any day.

[@paulwojnilowicz5265]

Robin Zander can get away with it! Releasing a power ballas!

[@fivestring65ify]

I remember when this came out. It was a great performance. I never knew they hated it. Zander is an amazing singer. I saw Cheap Trick on ACL a few years ago, and he was still amazing.

[@JesusChrist-xb7jq]

I saw Cheap Trick in 2017 with my gfatt. She wasn’t really familiar with the band, but when they started playing The Flame, she looked at me and said “I know this song!”. I looked at her and said “I think every woman here just said the same thing”. Lol! That day was a lot of fun, and the band sounded great. Zander’s voice was still impeccable!

[@purpletornado1971]

I grew up in Belvidere, Illinois which is just east of Rockford, Cheap Trick's hometown. Dream Police was the first album I purchased with my own money and my first "real" concert was seeing Cheap Trick perform in the then-brand new Rockford MetroCentre arena in February 1981 with Pete Comita on bass. I had various sightings over the years. I was at the table next to Robin and his family (first wife and children Ian and Holland) at dinner at Aunt Mary's Restaurant, was browsing magazines next to Rick at a mall bookstore (I was too scared to say anything to him but we briefly glanced at each other) and in the summer of 1988 I saw Robin in the wave pool at Magic Waters Waterpark and Tom and some other guys standing on the pool deck. Tom was wearing a brand new Phoenix Cardinals jersey. For some reason, I never saw Bun in person. In 2012, I played The Flame at my wife Lorraine's funeral. Cheap Trick is and has been my favorite band for over 40 years.

[@DC8091]

Love that Rick broke the demo tape to Flame 🤘🤘. That song only makes me wanna blast Reach Out & Take It 🤘🤘🤠

[@adreanmarantz2103]

For ballads I believes that 'Tonight it's You" is far superior. It's a love song but still jams, tempo -wise it's like 3 songs in one, love it. Reach out and take it?! Good god yes, I will NEVER get tired of that song, was just skimming through the Heavy metal soundtrack just last week actually. A lot of good stuff on there. (edited for typos, etc.)

[@melanieswor5900]

The Flame was always playing while I was in boot camp at the cantina when we got to go on the few breaks we had. I still love the song.

[@helenk6197]

I always love it when you add some personal story like "the fist! Professor of Rock rocks!

[@richiebricker]

This was a great Guitar song as well with an very cool emotional guitar solo

[@georgehuffert1800]

I don't blame Rick for originally hating it Rick is such an underrated guitarist who sold guitars to Jimi Hendrix there's so much talent in this band between Rick's legendary playing Robin's extraordinary vocals Tom's 8 string bass and Bunny keeping it sll together I'm from the in color era of cheap trick i don't like this polished type of music most people won't realize its a hard life to be on the road for many years before this came out . I never liked it it's not what I wanted to hear from them but a lot of people loved it so what do I know I'm a metal guy

[@unkindestcut]

I appreciate The Flame for giving me a chance to going out the the band’s merch booth without having to miss any Cheap Trick classics.

[@TheNightBadger]

There are many bands given a commercial push back in the day with professional songwriters songs - Cheap Trick have nothing to worry about - they already wrote great songs, and when using other peoples material it really comes down to how well they did it, and they did it very well. Simple Minds with 'Don't You', Heart with 'Alone', Starship with 'Nothings Gonna Stop Us Now' - on and on, all great songs. The other option was to write with the songwriters like Bon Jovi or Kiss did. I didn't hear The Flame until the 90's, because it never hit in the UK, but when I did I loved it. The definition of a good power ballad. A little bit of rock power, and the feeling that the singer really means it.

[@kootybear]

the first time i heard cheap trick i was at the county fair in the Gravitron and the operator played I want you to want me. It fit the mood perfectly. The Flame is such an awesome song.

[@devinjohnson1999]

Add to that, The Flame and Ghost Town were my favourite tracks (the latter was my song for someone I crushed on for a number of years)

[@SlitherWhisp]

I bought this tape and was driving a friend’s borrow car, blaring this song, and singing until my throat hurt on my way to a girl’s house. I liked her so much, she thought I was a great friend. I will always associate this song with her.

[@iaincook5835]

I yield to no-one in my loathing for 80s power ballads, but this one is an exception. It's still mighty.

[@trevorhembrough1290]

Rockford in the house!!! Love these guys!!! Like not just as a band, but they’re great guys. Them and their families. I went to HS with Rick’s son. My buddy’s in a cover band with Robin’s daughter. Hell, I actually lived next door to Tom before they hit it big.