Beck “Where It’s At” (1996)

First-round single from Beck’s Odelay and one of the last few songs I’d listen to before the end of senior year. The Odelay era effectively proved that Beck was no longer a one-hit wonder with “Loser”, starting with this single which was not as confusing but retained his charm, versatility, and eccentricity. “Where It’s At” would help make “two turntables and a microphone” a permanent thing (started by Mantronix’ ‘85 hit “Needle To The Groove”) and he just got started. He’s sampling and hat-tipping everything from sex-education records (1969′s Sex For Teens (Where It’s At), The Frogs’ “I Don’t Care If U Disrespect Me (Just So You Love Me)” (’89), Gary Wilson, and Musical Youth. The mish-mash of styles used in only one song is more than what most pop artists can do in a full-length and that’s how Beck does it.

Le Grand Bellevue Hotel, Gstaad