Billy Squier - "In the Dark"

(Debuted September 12, 1981, Peaked #35, 12 Weeks on the Chart)

The album Don't Say No helped introduce mainstream America to Billy Squier. "In the Dark" was the very first song on that LP. He had spent several years paying his dues, including a stint with a group named Piper that was signed to A&M but had no hit singles. However, when the 1980s rolled around, his brand of rock tinged with a melody -- along with his posturing -- was a great sound and look for the dawning of the MTV age.

While "The Stroke" was much more of an attention-grabber, the more understated "In the Dark" followed it into the Top 40. Where the first hit was something that Led Zeppelin could have claimed, "In the Dark" was a little slower (some may say more sensual) and featured more layered sounds in the backing track.

If you aren't familiar with this gem, give it a listen and see if you don't agree that it may have been underappreciated.