Don’t Leave Me This Way

The song "Don’t Leave Me This Way" by The Ravyns from their 1984 self-titled album holds a special place in the band’s legacy. This track, released as a single, was accompanied by a music video that showcased the band’s energetic style and knack for crafting catchy, danceable rock tunes. According to a blog post on 80’s AOR & Melodic Rock Music, the song was part of a trio of music videos the band produced in 1984, alongside "Raised on the Radio" and "Rhythm of the Heart." The latter won MTV’s 1985 National Basement Tapes competition, driven purely by fan votes, highlighting the band’s strong connection with their audience. The song’s lyrics, available on LyricsDB, capture a pleading romantic narrative, fitting the band’s focus on danceable, emotionally charged tracks designed for nightclub performances. While specific anecdotes about the song’s creation are scarce, its inclusion on the album, praised by critics on both sides of the Atlantic, underscores its role in cementing The Ravyns’ reputation as a standout act in Baltimore’s 1980s rock scene.

The Ravyns formed in 1979 in Baltimore, Maryland, as a "supergroup" born from two local bands, Climbadonkey and Hollins Ferry. The original lineup included Rob Fahey (guitar and vocals), Kyf Brewer (keyboards and vocals), Bobby Hird (guitar and vocals), Lee Townsend (bass), and John Tracey (drums). According to EverybodyWiki, Fahey had previously recorded with Hollins Ferry in 1977, while the other members had collaborated in Climbadonkey, which recorded an unreleased album in the 1970s. The band’s big break came in 1982 when their song "Raised on the Radio" was featured on the Fast Times at Ridgemont High soundtrack, leading to a deal with MCA Records. Their 1984 debut album, The Ravyns, included "Don’t Leave Me This Way," but despite critical acclaim, lackluster promotion from MCA resulted in modest sales, and the band was dropped, leading to their breakup. The Ravyns reunited periodically, releasing additional albums like Remnants in 1999 and a live album, Live at Maxwells 1983, in 2004, and they announced plans for new material in 2014.

Fans of The Ravyns can stay connected through the band’s official website and social media presence. Their Facebook page offers updates on performances and band news, while their Instagram account shares nostalgic photos and current activities. On X, the band engages with followers, posting about their music and Baltimore roots. Fan-driven communities also exist, such as the Ravyns Fan Club on Facebook, where Zoo Freaks and other enthusiasts discuss the band’s music, share memorabilia, and organize meetups for reunion shows. These platforms keep the spirit of The Ravyns alive, celebrating their contributions to 80s AOR and melodic rock.