On this day August 15 1983, Next Position Please arrived as the seventh studio album from Cheap Trick. Produced by Todd Rundgren, the record leaned into a polished power pop sound while still keeping the band’s signature rock edge. The album delivered catchy hooks, tight harmonies, and a mix of upbeat tracks and heartfelt ballads that showed the band’s versatility.
Highlights included I Can’t Take It, Borderline, and Heaven’s Falling, each bringing a distinct flavor to the lineup. While not the band’s highest charting effort, it became a cult favorite among loyal fans who appreciated its melodic style and playful energy. Rundgren’s production added a crisp and radio friendly shine without losing the band’s quirky personality.
Next Position Please also marked a creative period where Cheap Trick experimented with different styles, blending pop sensibilities with guitar driven rock in a way that kept their music fresh during the changing sounds of the early 80s.
80s insight: Next Position Please showed how Cheap Trick could adapt to the pop rock trends of the decade while still keeping their unique charm intact.