On this day June 15, 1980, the Chipmunks released the album Chipmunk Punk. This marked their return to the spotlight after more than a decade away from mainstream popularity and introduced a new generation to Alvin, Simon and Theodore.
Despite the title, the album focused more on covering popular rock and new wave hits of the era rather than actual punk music. Songs included Chipmunk versions of My Sharona, Call Me and Crazy Little Thing Called Love. It was the first release to feature Ross Bagdasarian Jr. voicing the Chipmunks after the passing of his father, who originally created them.
Chipmunk Punk reached number 34 on the Billboard 200 and helped revive the franchise, eventually leading to a new animated series in 1983 and several more albums during the decade.
80s insight: The Chipmunks were reborn in the 80s with pop covers and cartoon energy. Chipmunk Punk was not really punk, but it was perfectly in tune with the decade's love for fun reinvention.
Despite the title, the album focused more on covering popular rock and new wave hits of the era rather than actual punk music. Songs included Chipmunk versions of My Sharona, Call Me and Crazy Little Thing Called Love. It was the first release to feature Ross Bagdasarian Jr. voicing the Chipmunks after the passing of his father, who originally created them.
Chipmunk Punk reached number 34 on the Billboard 200 and helped revive the franchise, eventually leading to a new animated series in 1983 and several more albums during the decade.
80s insight: The Chipmunks were reborn in the 80s with pop covers and cartoon energy. Chipmunk Punk was not really punk, but it was perfectly in tune with the decade's love for fun reinvention.
