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SOUNDTRACK: ‘Times Square’ with Patrik Sandberg

Aug 6, 2026 · 1h 58m

Summary

Host Yossi Salek and guest Patrick Sandberg analyze the cult 1980 film *Times Square* and its influential new wave soundtrack. They discuss producer Robert Stigwood’s commercial interference, which altered the director’s original vision and cut key lesbian subplots. The episode also covers the film’s impact on Gen X music discovery and the tragic career trajectory of star Robin Johnson.

Topics discussed

Intro and show format explanation Times Square soundtrack vs. The Big Chill Host's punk history and video store job Times Square plot and production details Writer Alan Moyle and producer Robert Stigwood Robin Johnson's performance and career Stigwood's influence and Velvet Mafia New Wave context and song analysis Specific tracks: Suzy Quatro and Joe Jackson Ecstasy and Gary Numan tracks Bee Gees controversy and Tim Curry Underground artists and Blondells Patti Smith and fashion moments Conclusion and outro
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