The year was 1981. I was but a twinkle in my father’s eye and if anyone’s been fortunate to see pictures of my dad in the early 80’s they’ll know he bore a strong resemblance to the latter half of today’s featured artists, the incomparable Darryl Hall & John Oates.

Let me say choosing the perfect Hall & Oates throwback is like trying to single out the best Saved By The Bell episode. They’re all perfectly acceptable choices, but there can only be one “I’m so excited, I’m so scared!” and that honor is bestowed upon “I Can’t Go For That (No Can Do).” Having already notched three number 1 hits, the bright eyed and bushy ‘stached duo released this jazzy synthpop-rock classic in December of ’81. It’s not the conventional go-to H&O tune, but it’s one of the bands biggest accomplishments having topped the pop charts in swift fashion and reaching over a million spins on radio.

And thanks to a predominant saxello and funky bassline “I Can’t Go For That” would transcend genres, climbing not only Billboard’s Hot 100 chart but the US R&B and Dance charts as well. Hell, Michael Jackson allegedly admitted to lifting its bassline for “Billie Jean.” If that’s not the ultimate mark of success I don’t know what is.

Reminisce: