"Somebody Cares" by Tommy James and the Shondells

Ohio native Tommy James formed his group, the Shondells, when he was just 12 years old. They would go on to become the 47th most successful group of the 60s, scoring two #1 hits with "Hanky Panky" and "Crimson and Clover." Other top 10s included "I Think We're Alone Now" (#4), "Mirage" (#10), "Mony Mony" (#3), "Sweet Cherry Wine" (#7), and "Crystal Blue Persuasion" (#2). You'll probably recognize many songs on this impressive list as having been covered by other artists like Joan Jett, Tiffany, and Billy Idol.

Tommy James struck out on a solo career in the 70s and, save one big hit with "Draggin' The Line" (#4, 1971), he didn't come close to the success experienced with the Shondells. Moving into the 80s, he adapted his sound to match the synth pop at the time, but this failed to reignite his career. If you're curious to hear the 80s version of Tommy James, check out "Go" and "Annie Came Knockin'" from the record "Hi Fi."

"Somebody Cares" goes back to the glory days of 1968 when this wonderful tune peaked at a disappointing #53. However, it was the follow-up to "Mony Mony," - pretty big shoes to fill!