Falco’s “Rock Me Amadeus” is more than just an 80s hit; it’s a cultural phenomenon that blended classical music themes with pop sensibilities, creating a unique sound that resonated globally. For enthusiasts and casual listeners alike, discovering that there isn’t just one, but multiple versions of this iconic track can be quite a revelation. Let’s delve into the different mixes of “Rock Me Amadeus”, each offering a slightly different flavor to this unforgettable tune.
American FALCO 3 and the Salieri Long Mix
Many fans first encountered “Rock Me Amadeus” through the “American FALCO 3” version. This mix kicks off with the now-famous “ooh – rock me Amadeus” and progresses through stuttering edits of key phrases, creating a dynamic and engaging listening experience. Notably, it includes a timeline section, referencing Mozart facts, adding an educational and historical layer to the dance-pop track.
However, for those seeking the full experience, the “Salieri Mix” is the holy grail. Clocking in at a substantial 8 minutes and 21 seconds, this extended version is not readily available on standard compilations, often found on specialized 80s collections. It essentially expands upon the American FALCO 3 version, stretching out sections, particularly towards the end, with repeated refrains of “Amadeus, Amadeus…oh oh – rock me Amadeus”. For those who can’t get enough Falco, the Salieri Mix delivers five extra minutes of Austrian pop perfection.
German FALCO 3 and the Dance Version
In contrast to the Americanized versions, the “German FALCO 3” mix takes a different approach from the outset. It begins with a driving beat and stuttering edits of “rock me,” immediately launching into “rock me Amadeus.” A distinct high-pitched piccolo-like sound enters, adding a unique sonic element. The verses are sung in German, and the chorus becomes “Amadeus…Amadeus…come and rock me Amadeus.” This version omits the timeline section and incorporates more stuttering edits of “Ama…Ama..Amadeus” towards the end, concluding with an acapella and echoing “Amadeus.”
The “Dance Version” seems to be a variation of the German FALCO 3. It starts with a single “ooh – rock me Amadeus” followed by “Rock me Amadeus…rock..rock..rock me Amadeus” with echoes. Interestingly, it lacks the piccolo sound present in the German FALCO 3. It retains the German verses and includes the “baby, baby – do it to me rock me” section before returning to “Amadeus – Amadeus…oh oh Amadeus,” and ultimately fading out with an acapella and echoing “Amadeus.”
Radio, Club, and Instrumental Remixes
For radio airplay, a “Radio Remix” naturally emerged, shortening the “Extended Club Remix.” It retains the “sugar sweet” intro and German verses, similar to the German FALCO 3, and includes the “baby, baby – do it to me – rock me” part, along with a saxophone solo. This remix effectively packages the essence of the track into a more concise format for broadcast.
The “Club Remix,” a longer 6-minute and 47-second version, is also found on “The Remix Hit Collection.” It features an extended intro with “sugar sweet” and German verses, mirroring the Radio Remix but with extended sections, making it ideal for dance floors and longer play.
An “Instrumental Remix” provides a 1-minute and 20-second instrumental clip. It begins with a drum build-up and prominently features a saxophone solo throughout, highlighting the song’s instrumental aspects and offering a different listening perspective.
Ultimix: A DJ’s Retro Mashup
Finally, for DJs and remix enthusiasts, the “Ultimix” version offers a unique and unofficial take. Created by Ultimix, a DJ-only company, this 6-minute and 10-second remix (at 93 bpm) is part of their “Looking Back” retro series. It ingeniously blends the “Club Remix” beat with a guitar riff, the familiar “ooh rock me Amadeus,” and stuttering edits. It incorporates the timeline section and “baby, baby – do it to me – rock me” parts.
The “cool part” of the Ultimix is its creative sampling. After “Ehh Ehh” stuttering edits and the female “rock me Amadeus” vocal, it seamlessly mixes in the opening riff from The Beatles’ “Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band,” followed by the riff from AC/DC’s “Back In Black” with Def Leppard’s “Hey Hey” from “Pour Some Sugar On Me” at the end of each measure. It then transitions to the opening riff of “Pour Some Sugar On Me,” ending with “Hey Hey” answered by Falco’s “Ehh Ehh.” The remix concludes with a drum roll, the American ending of the song, another “Rock me Amadeus” refrain, and the female vocal, finally mixing in the ending riff of Queen’s “We Will Rock You” with its iconic stomps and handclaps. The Ultimix is a testament to the song’s remixability and its enduring appeal across genres.
In conclusion, “Rock Me Amadeus” exists in a fascinating array of versions, each with its own nuances and appeals. From the extended historical journey of the Salieri Mix to the DJ-driven mashup of the Ultimix, exploring these variations reveals the depth and adaptability of Falco’s hit song. Whether you prefer the American FALCO 3, the German variations, or the remixes, the world of “Rock Me Amadeus” offers something for every listener to discover and enjoy.
