“It’s the terror of knowing what this world is about… ” Under Pressure (Queen/David Bowie) exceeded its high expectations, dismantling Smooth Criminal (Michael Jackson) 111.8-78, while earning a preposterous 8.60 average, the second-highest in the tournament so far.

Other match-ups provided routine fare.

Go Your Own Way (Fleetwood Mac) def. Date with Ikea (Pavement), 93-73 .

Mannish Boy (Muddy Waters) def.  Down in Mexico (Coasters), 87-80  .   This was a fun battle of the classics.

Superfreak (Rick James) def. I’ve Gotta Feeling (Black Eyed Peas), 84-63 .  No love for the Peas from most of you guys, but this is the most downloaded song in the history of music.  So you can run and tell THAT, homeboy.

Call him Ray “Houdini” Charles.   The man behind the piano has won all three of his first round match-ups by a combined total of eight points, defeating Little Richard, Ritchie Valens and the Who in the process.  What I’d Say knocked off A Quick One While He’s Away (Who), 89-84.   The Who finish up the first round with two wins and two losses.