Quarterflash

From DJPOPPOPQuarterflash: Portland’s Sax-Powered Success Story Formed in Portland in 1980, Quarterflash grew out of the local bands Seafood Mama and Pilot. Before Quarterflash even existed, Seafood Mama had already recorded “Harden My Heart” in a Portland basement. After signing with Geffen Records, the newly renamed band rerecorded it—and the song became a massive national hit, reaching No. 3 on the Billboard Hot 100. Their self-titled debut album reached No. 8 and went platinum. Follow-up singles “Find Another Fool” and “Take Me to Heart” also reached the Top 20, making Quarterflash much more than a one-hit wonder. The band’s signature sound came from Rindy Ross, whose combination of lead vocals and saxophone gave them one of the most recognizable sounds—and images—of the early MTV era. Fun facts: • The name Quarterflash came from the phrase “a quarter flash and three-quarters foolish.” • “Harden My Heart” was a Portland hit before it became a national one. • Their first B-side was appropriately titled “City of Roses.” • They also appeared on the soundtracks for Night Shift and Fast Times at Ridgemont High. • Rindy and Marv Ross were both teachers before becoming rock stars. Essential songs: “Harden My Heart,” “Find Another Fool,” “Take Me to Heart,” “Night Shift,” and “Williams Avenue.” Quarterflash wasn’t merely a successful Portland band. For one bright, saxophone-powered moment, they were one of the biggest new rock bands in America.