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, Robert Palmer moves in a different direction in 1988 and signs a long term contract with EMI Records.

Phillip Rauls and Robert Palmer pause backstage for a photo 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 while combining a fusion of 'heavy metal' and 'bossa nova' sounds hence the album's title. It produced the monster hit single, "Simply Irresistible" which peaked at # 2 on the Billboard charts. The album was recorded at Logic Studios, Milan, Italy and Compass Point Studios, Bahamas.

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 once again this time at EMI. 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 several years later in 1985 on the "Riptide" album released on Island Records. Pictured below are the results of their EMI stint together with a gold record award.

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 career of the British superstar.

Thanks to good friend and HITS Magazine editor, Lenny Beer, anyone can be an open target for the magazine's twisted satire. (Double-click to enlarge photo)

Tour badge and All Access Pass from the Robert Palmer's Heavy Nova Tour of the U.S.

The beautiful Jane Wiedlin and Phillip Rauls pause for a colorful kodak moment prior to attending a industry function in Washington D.C.

Jane Wiedlin's "Fur" album on EMI was a highly praised solo album coming from a former member of the all female group, The Go-Go's

On a promotional visit to Z-100 Radio in Portland, Phillip along with Program Director Sean Lynch, Jane Wiedlin and Clark Margol are all smiles.

Phillip and Jane Wiedlin share a laugh at a lunch gathering at The Four Seasons Riverfront Hotel in 1989.

Phillip and long time friend Vince Faraci from Atlantic Records reunite at a Radio & Record Convention. Phillip replaced Vince as SW Promo Director at Atlantic when Vince was promoted to National Promo Director and moved to New York.

Jane Wiedlin wearing a long black wig comically spoofs while appearing to be classic pin-up star Bettie Page.

Richard Marx's "Repeat Offender" album on EMI blew the lid off existing sales as it conquered the charts and sold over 3 million copies.

Another longtime friend Larry Raspberry and his band take the stage at a performance in Portland. (L-R) L. Raspberry, Greg Morrow, Tommy Cathy, Photo (c) by Phillip.

After a Richard Marx performance at the Puyallup Fair, a live broadcast backstage brings together (L-R) EMI's Phillip Rauls, KUBE Radio's Chet Buchannan, Richard Marx, KUBE's Tom Huytler.

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