Monday, May 23, 2011

Surviving the Apocalypse--a Song for Harold Camping

Well, we made it---much to the dismay of Harold Camping and his minions who believed the world was to end on May 21.  I actually somewhat feel sorry for them. Not that I wanted the world to end, but I can't imagine what it must be like---sitting and waiting for something that you are so sure is going to happen.  And watch it pass by.  I can honestly say, I do not know what that is like.  Is it like learning there is no Santa Claus?  I don't actually remember that moment---it probably wasn't a moment, but a gradual realization.  Not the same thing at all.  So, no.  I have never believed in something so heartedly that I was willing to quit my job and give up everything:  money, friends, all possessions---all for a belief that was not to happen.  Bummer.

This whole thing reminded me of a song (of course, this is The Vinyl Voyage, after all).  The Eurogliders released "Heaven (It Must Be There)" in 1984.  Formed in Australia in 1981, this song was really their only hit to reach the U.S. charts.  It peaked at #26 that year.


The Eurogliders never became much here in the States.  Probably wanted to make it big here, though.  A modest hit, "Heaven" was not to draw attention to the band like it did in their native Australia.  The band broke up shortly after.  In 2005, they reformed.  Briefly.  Their new album failed to produce any hits and they broke up again.  Perhaps this song nicely summarizes the band's existence.

Oooooh! Ooh I want to find a better place
Oooooh! Ooh I'm searching for a better place
Oooooh! Ooh I'm tired of living in the sand
Oooooh! Ooh I'm searching for a better land
Heaven, must be there-ere
Well, it's just got to be there-ere
I've never - never seen Eden
I don't wanna live in this place 

This could be Harold Camping's theme, actually.   Nothing like a feel-good, hopeful pop song to make one forget about the anticipated--but misguided---apocalypse.

"Heaven" is just one of the songs that can be heard on the Vinyl Voyage.  We stream an eclectic mix of music 24 hours a day.  And all of it on glorious vinyl.  Just as music should be.

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4 comments:

  1. AnonymousMay 28, 2022 at 6:10 AM

    This is the best song. I like this song very much I often listen to this song. I read bestessay service blogs. I see your blog I like your content I share it with my all friends. thank you for sharing.

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  2. Natalie HirstJuly 22, 2025 at 11:01 PM

    Thinking about missed prophecies is wild, right? The Eurogliders song choice feels apt; that longing for something better resonates. I wonder if Camping ever secretly jammed out to 80s synth-pop. It makes you question deep-seated beliefs. I once poured my heart into a project only to see it fizzle, a bit like a friday night funkin mod I was so hyped for getting cancelled last minute. Brutal, but not quite apocalypse-level disappointment. I'm streaming the voyage.

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  3. T. SmithAugust 21, 2025 at 4:30 AM

    Ever pinned all your hopes on something that didn't pan out? I remember meticulously planning a surprise party, only for the guest of honor to get sick! It was disappointing, but not life-altering like these folks. What game was trending hard on May 21, 2011? pacman 30th anniversary

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  4. Derrick D. DyerAugust 22, 2025 at 10:59 PM

    It’s interesting how some bands achieve massive success in one country but barely make a ripple elsewhere. The Eurogliders' story reminds me of a time I tried to start a gaming channel, only to find most viewers gravitated to Omegle streams instead. Just like the band’s brief reunions, my efforts were short-lived but memorable. Sometimes, success depends on timing and the right audience.

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