Today’s video of the day is Falco – "Rock Me Amadeus" released in 1985.
The video for “Rock Me Amadeus” by Falco brings 18th-century elegance into the bold world of 1980s pop. Released in 1985, this iconic track appeared on Falco’s third studio album, Falco 3. The Austrian artist blended classical themes with new wave, creating a global sensation. Falco, born Johann Hölzel, first rose to fame with his 1982 hit “Der Kommissar.” That song mixed German lyrics with funk and rap influences. It showed Falco’s skill at crossing musical boundaries. But Falco 3 took things further. Produced by Dutch duo Bolland & Bolland, the album introduced Falco’s most famous song—“Rock Me Amadeus.”
Inspired by the Oscar-winning film Amadeus, the song pays tribute to Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. It highlights his fame, genius, and tragic end. Uniquely, the song is sung in German, yet it topped charts worldwide. On March 29, 1986, it became the only German-language song to reach number one on the Billboard Hot 100. The music video amplifies the theme. It shows Falco in both Mozart’s era and modern times. He walks through rooms filled with powdered wigs, motorcycles, and leather jackets. The contrast is striking. At the end, past and present collide as the two worlds blend.
This track marked a high point in Falco’s career. The album Falco 3 also included hits like “Vienna Calling” and “Jeanny,” continuing his experimental style. Later albums like Emotional (1986) and Wiener Blut (1988) kept his mix of pop, rap, and drama alive, though none matched the global impact of “Rock Me Amadeus.” Even today, the video remains a bold visual statement. It perfectly captures Falco’s mix of history, rebellion, and style. “Rock Me Amadeus” stands as a timeless blend of high art and pop culture.
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