Jay F. (JR41) from COLUMBUS, IN Reviewed on 8/19/2013...
This is a CD that caught "pop" radio by surprise when it came out in the early 80's. At the time, the new wave invasion was on, with many one hit wonders dominating pop radio. Then here comes a slew of classics strung together with a beat, to make radio listeners say, "what is this"?. The original did very well on the top 40. It also served to get many people interested in classical music. I loved it then and still do today. The follow up CD's are just as good in my opinion. If you like classical music or if you are not sure, give the original a listen. The Royal Philharmonic did an excellent job and Louis Clark did a phenominal job of putting these all together so they flow smoothly from piece to piece.
CD Reviews
This music is fun to listen to
10/27/1999
(4 out of 5 stars)
"The Hooked On Classics series combines the both of best worlds, classical music and a really nice beat. It doesn't take the place of real classical music and doesn't even try. However, if you want something different, but not like your conventional popular sound, this is it. It is light in mood and upbeat. The orchestration is very genuine and the background beat does not take away from the classical sound. I doubt even those who dislike classical music would find Hooked On Classics disagreeable to listen to. It's great for just listening enjoyment, great exercise music, and highly recommended here."
Classical disco
Bill Smythe | Chicago | 06/13/2000
(5 out of 5 stars)
"This may sound like heresy, but the best way to listen to classical music is with a disco beat. Those who grew up listening to their parents' classical LPs will recognize most of the tunes, and will like them better than ever. There's no reason to vary the tempo; after all, it's disco, right? It combines the best of both worlds. Meanwhile, if you want to shock your snooty classical-loving friends, just play this CD for them, next time they come over."
Highly refreshing and relaxing
Dr David Fong | Singapore | 10/27/1999
(4 out of 5 stars)
"Easy listening classicals in a modern tempo. Good introduction to a medley of classical music. Listen while driving or after a hard day's work: Very relaxing. Highly recommended for the modern young listener. Not for the purist classical music lover. (Give Disc 4 a miss)"
Glad to see this available
Lynnmarie E Finn | Oak Lawn, IL United States | 01/23/2002
(5 out of 5 stars)
"I remember hearing Hooked On Classics, Vol. 1 for the first time in the 80s. It became my housework music. I would put the record on the spindle and get all my cleaning chores done in double time! Actually, I've been a classical music afficianado all my life, so "Hooked On..." was a refreshing change in the way I listened to so-called "long-hair music". Of course, for those of us aging folk looking for great "workout" music, it certainly suffices as well, without having to subscribe to the pounding beat of house or dance music, which (to me) sounds repetitive and altogether too much the same. Put the CD in the player, strap it on my waist, and 30 minutes later I can hardly believe my workout is done, I've enjoyed the listening and beat so much. It's not until I crawl off the elliptical machine at the health club that I realize the music is probably all that got me through the last half hour.
I highly recommend this for anyone who loves, appreciates or otherwise just wants to hear a "different" kind of classical music."