The Waitresses
by Steve HueyTo most new wave fans, the Waitresses are a fondly remembered part of the 80s one-hit wonder pantheon, even in spite of the fact that that one hit was a cult phenomenon that didnt even reach the Top 40. Yet I Know What Boys Like was the sort of daring, instantly memorable pop nugget that epitomized the era — all cool detachment, subversive wit, and an irresistibly off-kilter dance groove. Lead singer Patty Donahues dry, cheeky attitude supplied a not inconsiderable sex appeal, but even if she was the bands focal point, their true voice was guitarist and founder Chris Butler. Butler was responsible for the vast majority of their material, and often wrote from a distinctly female point of view, tailoring his work to fit Donahues personality. Most critics and fans felt the band had more to offer than just I Know What Boys Like, but tension within the group during the recording of their second LP led to their premature implosio...