Loverboy (Billy Ocean song) Loverboy (Billy Ocean song) "Loverboy" was Billy Ocean's second single from his 1984 album, "Suddenly". It was produced by Keith Diamond and reached number 2 on the U.S. "Billboard" Hot 100 (behind "Careless Whisper" by George Michael) as well as hitting number 20 on the soul chart, and number 15 on the UK Singles Chart in February 1985. It also reached the top spot of the Hot Dance Music/Club Play chart in the U.S., in an extended version. The track was released on the Jive label under the catalogue reference, JIVE 80. The song was played in the first episode
Billy T. James Empire for services to entertainment. In 1986 Billy and Chris Slane published "Real Hard Case" which contained comic-strip interpretations of Billy's comedy. "Real Hard Case 2" followed in 1987. During this period his name and likeness was used for the company "Billy T's Hangi Takeaways," with locations in Auckland, but the business did not last and closed after several years. In 1990 Billy received the prestigious Benny Award from the Variety Artists Club of New Zealand Inc for a lifetime of excellence in the performing arts. Billy T James self-titled television show for TVNZ featured sketch comedy and live performances