TTBA Replay 21AUG2026 Pt. 3

STYLIN’

In this episode of Turn The Beat Around we celebrate one of the most distinctive dance genres born in 1980s America: Freestyle — an electronic, Latin‑infused, synth‑driven sound that emerged from the club scenes of New York, Philadelphia and Miami. The genre took shape in the early 1980s, blending post‑disco, electro and hip‑hop influences, with Shannon’s Let the Music Play (1983) widely considered the first true Freestyle record. Miami quickly became a major hub, developing a brighter, glossy production style that helped propel acts like Exposé into national chart success.

TTBA’s tribute leaned into an all‑female playlist honouring the genre’s emotional vocals, Latin percussion and shimmering synth hooks.

TOGETHER FOREVER Lisette Melendez 1990

WHAT YOU DON’T KNOW Expose 1989

PROVE YOUR LOVE Taylor Dayne 1988

FASCINATED Company B 1986

CRUSH ON YOU The Jets 1986

THE PLEASURE PRINCIPLE Janet Jackson 1987

Shep Pettibone 7″ Remix

IF YOU LEAVE ME NOW Jaya 1989

OVER & OVER Pajama Party 1989