EMI Develops Key Artists in the Pacific NW in 1988-89

Photo Page 14 covers an impressive period in the late 80's which EMI Records flexes it's marketing muscle while breaking trend setting new artists. With the Northwest being fertile grounds for chart busting activities, EMI's NW Manager Phillip Rauls leads the way with key radio success combined with regional tour support.

Strong retail activity were the results of a carefully crafted marketing strategy coming from the talented EMI promotion and marketing team combined with the Capitol-EMI sales force known as CEMA. A nationwide campaign of marketing analysis, video planning and advertising placement produced key results and landmark successes for EMI Records.

Robert Palmer was known for guitar-driven music, his handsome looks and sleek wardrobe of eloquent suits. Yet, after 14 years and 9 classic albums with Chris Blackwell's Island Records, in 1988 Robert Palmer moves in a different direction and signs a long term contract with EMI Records.

Phillip Rauls and Robert Palmer pause backstage for a photo op after his sold-out performance in Spokane, WA at the city's newly opened Opera House.

MTV played a major role in the newfound success of Robert Palmer as his video's had become the TV's networks national anthem.

"Heavy Nova" was Robert Palmer's debut album release on EMI Records and produced the monster hit single, "Simply Irresistible" which peaked at # 2 on the Billboard charts.

Robert Palmer's video featured a dozen mini skirted models performing behind him while pretending to be his backup band. The Terrence Donovan produced video displayed Palmer surrounded by beautiful deadpan models in a striking exhibition that was undoubtedly the signature event of the times.

Robert Palmer and Phillip Rauls were reunited at EMI and working together again. The two first met in the early 70's while touring with British soul band Vinegar Joe who had several albums on Atlantic Records. Then again later in 1985 on the "Riptide" album released on Island Records. Below are the results of their EMI stint together.

A EMI Records corporate meeting in Los Angeles brings together several key label represenatives. (Clockwise from L-R) Mary Margaritas, Tom "Buckwheat" Shoberg, George Silva, Chris Baca, Phillip Rauls, Michael Schide and in center EMI Records President & CEO, Sal Licata.

The "Heavy Nova" album by Robert Palmer was certified platinum while begining an exciting new era for the British superstar.

Thanks to good friend and HITS Magazine editor, Lenny Beer, everyone's an open target for satire.

All Access Pass for the Heavy Nova Tour

You are now in a "No Turkeys Allowed" zone.

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