8. Brookside (1982)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7wFJIxCbMok "No Mr Corkhill! No!!!" Sorry. I've just always wanted to do that. The Liverpudlian soap Brookside first appeared on our screens in 1982, bringing us the trials and tribulations of the long suffering residents of Brookside Close, a typical middle class cul-de-sac filled with rather foul mouthed and obnoxious people eager to kick off at the slightest agitation. Launched before Eastenders to create a more "working class" answer to Coronation Street, it was an atypical 80s soap and it's theme (obviously very synthesized and written by composers Steve Wright and Dave Roylance) reflected the nature of it's beginnings. Even when it changed in 1991 to reflect a more 'modern' sound it still held that classic tone and hadn't axed anything the fans knew or loved about it. While Brookside gained a massive following throughout the late 80's and early 90's (with that infamous pre-lesbian watershed kiss in 1994, the incestuous relationship of 96 and the idea of a man selling drugs to children) it was thought the soap would be a main contender against the likes of it's more big budgeted rivals. Unfortunately, this didn't happen and the show was axed in 2003. However it retains a cult following and several episodes of the show are still available (so I'm informed) on More 4 for your viewing pleasure. If you'd like to blame anyone, I've got just one word for you; Hollyoaks.
Wayne Madden
Contributor
First studied Journalism in Ireland in 2003, returning to Sunderland University on the tenth anniversary of my first studies in the subject to continue towards an MA. Interested in all sorts including WWE, Music, Film, TV and Games. Has travelled around a bit to places like California, Ontario and Mexico and plans to do more of the same soon again.
Recently I've been writing pieces on my favourite topics which have included obscure theme music from nostalgic shows, Guns N' Roses and a few other surprises I'll be happy to share in time!
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Wayne