Laura Branigan, December 4, 1982

Michael Ochs Archives

The Performance: Everything was going so well until the American Euro-pop princess hit the first chorus in her trademark song 'Gloria.' Whether it was nerves or a rumoured illness, Branigan’s usually lovely voice couldn’t handle the high notes and the tune quickly devolved into a raspy, half-shouted mess.

Career Impact: The performance itself wasn’t well-received but 'Gloria' continued to top the charts well into 1983. Branigan went on to have an even bigger worldwide hit with 1984’s 'Self Control.' She also had songs featured on the 'Flashdance' and 'Ghostbusters' soundtracks.