Angel Say No

The Zoo Crew is spinning the catchy power pop tune "Angel Say No" by Tommy Tutone, from their 1980 self-titled debut album, and the Zoo Freaks are surely vibing to its jangly guitars and new wave energy. This song, which peaked at No. 38 on the Billboard Hot 100, was Tommy Tutone’s first taste of chart success before their iconic hit "867-5309/Jenny" took over the airwaves. One piece of trivia that stands out is how "Angel Say No" showcased the band’s shift toward a stylized power pop sound, complete with skinny ties and a modernized new wave edge, as noted in a 2009 Charleston City Paper article. The song’s infectious melody and rootsy yet polished vibe made it a minor hit, though it’s often overshadowed by their later smash. Fans on Reddit’s 80smusic community have called it a "catchy little power pop tune," appreciating its place as one of only two Tommy Tutone tracks to crack the Billboard Hot 100.

Another tidbit comes from the song’s production and release context. Released on vinyl in 1980 by Columbia Records, "Angel Say No" was part of the band’s debut album, which blended influences from Americana, country, and folk-rock with the hook-driven guitar pop of bands like The Knack and Cheap Trick. The song’s lyrics, which touch on unrequited love with lines like “Angel I love you, you know I love you, but what can I say,” resonated with listeners, as seen on Lyrics.com. Interestingly, the band’s frontman, Tommy Heath, revealed in an interview cited by The Boss Booking Agency that during this period, Tommy Tutone toured extensively, even appearing on shows like American Bandstand and Solid Gold, which helped boost the song’s visibility. The band’s willingness to embrace diverse musical styles, from rock to soul, set them apart in the early ’80s scene.

Tommy Tutone’s origins trace back to 1978 in San Francisco, though the band was later based in Willits, California, during their early success. Lead singer Tommy Heath, born March 31, 1947, grew up in places like Philadelphia, Texas, and Montana before landing in San Francisco during the Summer of Love, chasing a hippie lifestyle, according to Wikipedia. There, he teamed up with lead guitarist Jim Keller and bassist Terry Nails to form the band, initially called Tommy and the Tu-Tones. Heath, who doubled as a rhythm guitarist and occasional keyboardist, brought a soulful voice to the group’s rootsy power pop sound. The band’s name came from Heath’s nickname, and their early days as a twangy bar band evolved into the polished pop-rock style heard in "Angel Say No." Despite lineup changes, with Heath and Keller as the only constants, the band gained traction opening for Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers on Petty’s 1979 Damn the Torpedoes tour, a pivotal moment that helped them secure a deal with Columbia Records.

For Zoo Freaks wanting to dive deeper, you can connect with Tommy Tutone’s current activities via their official website or follow them on social media. Their Facebook page shares updates on tours and new releases, while their Instagram offers glimpses of live performances and nostalgic throwbacks. On X, the band engages with fans, posting about gigs and ’80s music culture. Fans can also join the Tommy Tutone 867-5309/Jenny Fan Group on Facebook to share memories and discuss the band’s legacy. For vinyl collectors or diehard supporters, sites like Discogs and Rate Your Music are great for exploring the band’s discography and connecting with other enthusiasts.