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Post by 1finemrg on Jan 26, 2017 6:34:39 GMT -5
January 26: ... Derek Holt. Derek was a founding member and guitarist for the Climax Blues Band, co-writing and singing backup on their #3 hit "Couldn't Get It Right". In 1980, Derek stood front and center, writing and singing lead on their other Top 40 hit which peaked at #12. I Love You - Climax Blues BandAlways liked the single that preceded "Couldn't Get It Right". It bubbled under briefly in 1975. Using The Power - Climax Blues BandJanuary 26: ...as mentioned below, Eddie Van Halen. Eddie and the boys initially impressed Gene Simmons of Kiss, who recorded a demo tape of the band. He shopped it around but found no takers. Even Bill Aucoin who was Kiss' manager passed on it. Ted Templeman, producer for the Doobie Brothers, Carly Simon, and another Van (Morrison) witnessed a live performance of the band and convinced Warner Brothers to sign them. From there, the band charted 13 Top 10 albums and 16 Top 40 singles. The #1 single "Jump" was their only hit to reach the Top 10. Van Halen received a Grammy in 1992 for their album "For Unlawful Carnal Knowledge", and was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2007. Eddie was voted the greatest guitarist of all time in a 2012 Guitar World reader's poll, and Rolling Stone ranks him #8. Pairing the band's first charting single, with Eddie's showcase as the prelude. Eruption/You Really Got Me - Van HalenEddie's ax is fully loaded in another instrumental that segues into their Roy Orbison cover from "Diver Down". Intruder/(Oh) Pretty Woman - Van HalenJanuary 26: ...Corky Laing who turns 67 today. Corky was the drummer for this band whose only Top 40 hit from 1970 reached #21. More importantly, he is also a essential member of my CHOF (Cowbell Hall Of Fame) along with Albert Bouchard (Blue Oyster Cult) and Rick "Bell" Belanger (Five Man Electrical Band). Also Alex Van Halen (Tip of the cap to his brother Eddie whose birthday also is today!) Mississippi Queen - Mountain
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Post by 1finemrg on Jan 27, 2017 6:08:41 GMT -5
January 27: ... Nick Mason. Drummer for Pink Floyd, Nick is the only constant member of the band since its inception in 1965. He also is the only member to appear on every album. He co-authored a number of the tracks in the early days of the band, including this one from their 1971 "Meddle" release... One Of These Days - Pink Floyd... and this one from "Dark Side Of The Moon". Time - Pink FloydJanuary 27: ...Seth Justman. Seth has been on keyboards with the J. Geils Band since 1968. Though the band does a fair share of cover tunes, Seth and Peter Wolf have been the main collaborators on the majority of original tunes the band has recorded. Seth was the sole writer of the #1 hit "Centerfold" and produced the "Freeze Frame" album. The J. Geils Band has most recently toured with Ian Hunter's band and has opened for Bon Jovi and Bob Seger in the past few years. This single reached #12 late in 1974, but we'll go with the memorable live version Reputah! Must Of Got Lost - J. Geils BandSeth kicks off this #4 hit he co-wrote with Peter. Freeze Frame - J. Geils Band
January 27: ...Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. Celebrating his 256th birthday, Mozart was a prodigy from an early age. In his short time on earth (about 36 years), he composed over 600 works for symphony, opera, and chamber music. Compositions like "The Marriage Of Figaro" and "Don Giovanni" have endured the test of time. Wolfgang Van Halen was named for Mozart, just as Eddie Van Halen's middle name is Dutch for Ludwig (Von Beethoven). Though often dismissed as a novelty song by a two-hit wonder, it was written as a tribute to Mozart. Rock Me Amadeus - FalcoJanuary 27: ...Kim Gardner who would have been 67 today. Kim was the bass player in a 1971 one hit wonder trio. Using the generally accepted definition of one hit wonder, they barely qualified reaching #40 with their only Hot 100 record. In Chicago, it was Top 10 peaking at #5. Put your hand on your hip...Let your backbone slip... Resurrection Shuffle - Ashton, Gardner And Dyke
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Post by 1finemrg on Jan 28, 2017 7:55:37 GMT -5
January 28: ... Brian Keenan. Nicknamed "Curley" by his band mates, Brian was often introduced as Brian "Chambers" Keenan when he performed in concert as a member of the Chambers Brothers. Born in New York but raised in England and Ireland, Brian joined the Brothers (George, Joe, Lester, and Willie) in time for their 1965 appearance at the Newport Folk Festival. Brian would remain with the band until management problems tore them apart in 1971. He would proceed to run his own recording studio in Connecticut, but pass away suddenly in 1985 from heart failure at the age of 42. Brian's drum work was a highlight in this psychedelic soul classic. Leaping 27-11 in September 1968, it seemed poised to make a Top 10 chart run. Unfortunately, it would remain in its peak position for 5 consecutive weeks. We'll go with the 11 minute album version. Time Has Come Today - Chambers BrothersThe band's other Top 40 hit was a great Otis Redding cover that peaked at #37. I Can't Turn You Loose - Chambers BrothersJanuary 28: ... Jean Knight. This New Orleans native found regional success with a series of singles released in the latter half of the sixties, but was unable to get national exposure. By the end of the sixties, she was a baker at the Loyola University New Orleans cafeteria. She was rediscovered in early 1970 and recorded her signature song at Maleco studios. It was rejected by several major labels, but when King Floyd's "Groove Me" became a major hit in 1971 Stax records remembered the Jean Knight recording made at the same studio. They released it and it became a #2 pop, #1 R&B smash. The follow up was a mid-charter and after a few more unsuccessful attempts she left the label. She recorded for several small labels during the remainder of the 70s. In 1981, Atlantic records released "You Got The Papers, But I Got The Man" a collaboration with local producer Isaac Bolden. Though it didn't chart, it did help her career as she began to tour regularly. Her career received an additional boost, when her version of a Rockin' Sydney novelty hit became a mid-charter in 1985. She continues to tour on occasion. Here is her 1985 mid-charter; it peaked at #50 on the Hot 100... My Toot Toot - Jean Knight...and her signature 1971 hit... Mr. Big Stuff - Jean Knight...which was sampled on this 2000 song that reached #15 on Modern Rock Tracks. AM Radio - EverclearJanuary 28: ...Rick Allen, bassist in the Box Tops turns 69 today. Rick joined the band after their #1 hit "The Letter", a song written by Wayne Carson. But Rick was on bass when this gem was recorded, another Carson classic which IMO was their best. Reach a disappointing #18 on the Hot 100. As rock critic Lester Bangs wrote in a review of the group's Super Hits album, "A song like 'Soul Deep' is obvious enough, a patented commercial sound, yet within these structures it communicates with a depth and sincerity of feeling that holds the attention and brings you back often." Soul Deep - Box Tops
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Post by 1finemrg on Jan 29, 2017 7:25:05 GMT -5
January 29: ... Andrew Loog Oldham. Manager and producer of the Rolling Stones during their British Invasion years (1963 - 1967), it was Andrew that helped to influence the image and direction of the band in their early years. He demoted Ian Stewart from the group, but Ian would become the band's manager and remain a sideman contributing keyboards. He successfully promoted the Stones as the "anti-Beatles", and encouraged Mick Jagger and Keith Richards to write their own songs. He also established Immediate Records in the UK, a label that helped launched the careers of Rod Stewart, Jimmy Page, John Mayall and the Bluesbreakers, and the Nice. The first Jagger/Richards (aka Glimmer Twins) composed song to chart was not released as a single in the UK. It would become the Stones first Top 40 US single, peaking at #24. Tell Me - Rolling StonesThe only US Top 40 hit released on Immediate Records peaked at #16 in 1968. Itchycoo Park - Small FacesJanuary 29: ...David Byron. He left us 31 years ago, but he made his mark as lead vocalist for Uriah Heep from 1969 - 1976. These were the years the band was most commercially successful with their only Top 40 hit "Easy Livin"" and their highest charting album "Demons And Wizards" being released during this period. David's vocals are highlighted on this pair of singles that have something in common. Both peaked at #91 on the Hot 100. From the 1972 album "The Magician's Birthday". A little Moog synthesizer anyone? Sweet Lorraine - Uriah HeepFrom "Sweet Freedom" released in 1973. We'll ditch the 45 edit and go with the album cut. Great vocals, bass and keyboards highlight my favorite Uriah Heep track. Stealin' - Uriah HeepJanuary 29: ...James Jamerson, legendary bassist for Motown's Funk Brothers. He would have been 79 today. The songs for Motown and other labels he laid his tracks down on his 1962 Fender Precision Bass are too numerous to mention. He pretty much influenced most bass players going forward from the early 60s including Paul McCartney, Jack Bruce of Cream, The Who's John Entwistle and their current bassist Pino Palladino, and Bootsy Collins. On the studio version of this song, Marvin Gaye supposedly searched several bars to find James. When he bought him into the studio, James played his bass lying flat on his back. He's standing upright for this version, from the "Save The Children" benefit concert in 1973. What's Going On - Marvin Gaye
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Post by 1finemrg on Jan 29, 2017 23:54:03 GMT -5
January 30: ... Marty Balin. Marty was a founding member of Jefferson Airplane. In the beginning, he shared lead vocals with Grace Slick and Paul Kantner. As music moved away from his preferred style of pop tunes toward psychedelic music, Marty's contributions became more of a supporting role. With Kantner, he did write the title track to the "Volunteers" album. He left Jefferson Airplane in the spring of 1971, but would co-write "Caroline" and sing as a guest vocalist on the Jefferson Starship's first album "Dragon Fly" in 1974. He would become a full time member in 1975, and sing lead vocals on the Top 20 hits 'With Your Love", "Count On Me", and "Runaway". Personal problems within the band resulted in his departure late in 1978. He would return to the Top 40 as a solo artist in the early 80s with 2 releases from his debut solo album. In the mid-80s he joined Jack Casady and Paul Kantner to form the KBC Band. In subsequent years, her would be involved with various incarnations of Jefferson Airplane and Jefferson Starship. Jefferson Airplane/Starship recently announced their signing with JAM, Inc. which hopes to further their legacy through multi-media releases (documentary, merchandise licensing, books, museum exhibitions) From "Red Octopus", Marty wrote and sang lead on Jefferson Starship's #3 single in 1975. Miracles - Jefferson StarshipHe peaked at #8 with this 1981 ballad. Hearts - Marty BalinJanuary 30: ...Phil Collins. His success with Genesis has only been exceeded by his solo career. As the front man and drummer for Genesis, the band had 7 Top 10 singles in the US with "Invisible Touch" topping the Hot 100. He topped the Hot 100 six times as a solo artist, plus once in a duet with Marilyn Martin. He also topped the album charts twice with "...But Seriously" and "No Jacket Required" which went 12X platinum. He entered the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a member of Genesis in 2010. In recent years he has overcome alcohol addiction, and reunited with his third wife Orianne six years after their divorce. He also announced he was coming out of retirement late last year. The 2007 Genesis tour was named for their second charting hit in the US. It reached a disappointing #58 on the Hot 100 in 1980, but did 50 notches better on the UK charts. Turn It On Again - GenesisFrom his solo side, this one squeezed into the Top 40 peaking at #39 in 1983. I Don't Care Anymore - Phil CollinsJanuary 30: ... Steve Marriott who would have been 68 today. Marriott was the voice/guitarist for Humble Pie, whose classics such as "30 Days In The Hole" and "I Don't Need No Doctor" graced the FM radio airwaves in the early 70s. Prior to Humble Pie, he, Ronnie Lane, Kenney Jones, and Ian McLagan were highly successful in the UK as the Small Faces releasing 8 Top 10 singles. One of them, "Itchycoo Park" reached #16 in the US. Marriott wrote the follow-up to "Itchycoo Park", originally intending it for British female singer P. P. Arnold. He liked it so much, he decided to keep it for the band. The song reached #9 in the UK and #73 in the US. P. P. Arnold did contribute background vocals and is featured in the video. The song was covered as a "B" side to "Just Between You And Me" by Lou Gramm in the late 80s. Tin Soldier - Small Faces
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Post by 1finemrg on Jan 31, 2017 0:24:59 GMT -5
January 31: ... Rick Hall. FAME! At 85 years young, he may live forever. In this case, FAME stands for Florence Alabama Music Enterprises. It was his Fame Recording studios that produced some of the Atlantic soul classics of the mid-60s. In the late 60s/early 70s it was the pop of the Osmonds, Tom Jones and Paul Anka. In the late 70s, he moved back to country producing Mac Davis, Jerry Reed, the Gatlin Brothers, and Shenandoah. He had his first taste of success in the 50s writing for George Jones, Brenda Lee, and Roy Orbison. The documentary "Muscle Shoals" is a must watch, a compelling film about the music business in the area. Two of his watershed moments were with these soul classics. This timeless hit helped Rick to build the FAME studio. The Rolling Stones covered the song in 1964. You Better Move On - Arthur AlexanderRick arranged a distribution deal for this #1 hit with Atlantic Records. Recordings with Otis Redding, Wilson Pickett, and Clarence Carter among others soon followed. When A Man Loves A Woman - Percy SledgeJanuary 31: ...Harry Wayne Casey (KC). In 1973, Harry was working in the periphery of the music business. He was working at a Hialeah, Florida record store, did menial tasks for a local record label, and hung around TK studios looking for a way to get his foot in the door. Once Henry Stone the owner of the record label and studio gave him a chance, not only did he get his foot in the door, he destroyed it. All told he racked up 11 top 40 hits fronting the Sunshine Band, as a solo artist or in a duet (Teri DeSario). It was feast or famine on the Hot 100 as seven of the Top 40 hits peaked in the Top 10. Five reached #1 and two made it to #2. He also co-wrote and co-produced George McCrae's #1 hit "Rock Your Baby", a song both John Lennon and Abba said served as an inspiration for their #1 hits "Whatever Gets You Through The Night" and "Dancing Queen" respectively. He retired from the music business in 1985 only to return in 1991 with a reunited Sunshine Band. They continue to tour today, in fact performing a concert in Nashville on the eve of his 65th birthday. Their first Hot 100 single peaked at #66 in the US but was a #7 smash in the UK. Queen Of Clubs - KC and the Sunshine BandThis one hung at #2 for three weeks. Meco's "Star Wars Theme/Cantina Band" kept it from the top at first, then the irrepressible "You Light Up My Life" took over. It did top the R&B charts. Keep It Comin' Love - KC and The Sunshine BandJanuary 31: ...Terry Kath guitarist and vocalist for Chicago. He would have been 69 today. Terry added an edge to Chicago's music in their early years. His vocal style has been described as the "white Ray Charles", and Jimi Hendrix among many others has praised his guitar prowess. It was one of rock and roll greatest tragedies that he died of a self-inflicted gunshot wound in 1978, thinking that the gun wasn't loaded. An appropriately titled Terry Kath song kicks off track one, side one of Chicago Transit Authority's debut album. We'll go with a live version. Introduction - Chicago Transit Authority
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Post by 1finemrg on Jan 31, 2017 23:24:50 GMT -5
February 1: ... Ray Sawyer. Known for the trademark eye patch he always wore while performing with Dr. Hook & the Medicine Show, Ray was mostly a supporting player on maracas and provided backing vocals. Although he stepped to the mike and provided lead vocals for this million selling single. The Cover Of Rolling Stone - Dr. Hook & the Medicine ShowThe song was written by Shel Silverstein as was their first single, also a million seller. Sylvia's Mother - Dr. Hook & the Medicine Show"Sister Suzie, Brother John, Martin Luther, Phil And Don,"
Paul McCartney & Wings - "Let 'Em In"February 1: ...Don Everly. Don and his brother Phil were part of the first class inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1986. They entered the Country Music Hall of Fame in 2001. They hold the record for the most Hot 100 hits by a duo (Hall & Oates have the most Top 40 hits). They topped the Hot 100 three times ("Wake Up Little Susie", "All I Have To Do Is Dream", and "Cathy's Clown"), and have three #2 singles among their 15 top ten hits. Don's daughter Erin served as part of rock and roll lore as well. She was the inspiration behind Guns 'N Roses "Sweet Child O' Mine", being Axl Rose's girlfriend at the time. As harmonious the duo was on stage, they often clashed off stage. They dissolved their partnership in 1973, but reunited 10 years later. In 1986, they backed Paul Simon on the title track to his legendary album "Graceland". In 2003 & 2004, they appeared with Simon & Garfunkel during their Reunion tour. Phil passed away January 3, 2014. Don most recently appeared at the 2014 Annual Music Masters performing "Bye Bye Love". One of my favorites, this was the duo's second to last Top 40 hit peaking at #31. Gone, Gone, Gone - Everly BrothersThis non-charter was a 1969 cover of James Taylor's first Hot 100 Single. Carolina In My Mind - Everly BrothersFebruary 1: ...Mike Campbell who turns 65 today. Mike is the multi-talented guitarist/co-producer in Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers. Mike's been there from the beginning. Tom Petty had a successful audition with the pre-Heartbreakers band Mudcrutch and suggested Mike for rhythm guitar. He ranks #79 in Rolling Stone's 100 greatest guitarists. His style is complementary and straight forward, giving a composition exactly what it needs without wasting notes. He is in high demand and has worked with Don Henley, Johnny Cash, George Harrison, and on Roy Orbison's last album "Mystery Girl". Here he is alongside Tom Petty with a live recording of their first single, an FM staple that failed to chart. American Girl - Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers
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Post by 1finemrg on Feb 2, 2017 6:46:07 GMT -5
February 2: ... The Midnight Special. Burt Sugerman pitched the idea of this musical variety series as a means of capitalizing on the large viewing audience for NBC's "Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson". At that time CBS, NBC, and ABC would go off the air at 1 AM eastern. NBC rejected the idea, so Burt bought the air time and convinced Chevrolet to sponsor the program. The pilot show actually premiered August 19, 1972 as a special. Hosted by John Denver, the show served as a means to encourage people to vote in the upcoming election. The Midnight Special began its Saturday morning weekly run (1 - 2:30 AM Eastern) on February 2, 1973. What made the show unique is that the acts performed live rather than lip-synching to pre-recorded music for the majority of its run. The show was supplemented on occasion by performance footage of older acts. Toward the end, the show's time moved up a half-hour when Johnny Carson cut the length of his show from 90 to 60 minutes. Before the end of its first season, NBC was convinced that the concept was successful and began programming in that time slot 5 nights a week. The talk show "Tomorrow" would be on the other 4 nights. The Midnight Special pulled into the station for the final time May 1, 1981, a couple of months before the dawn of MTV. The first episode was hosted by Helen Reddy. She would become a frequent host and in fact was the regular host for about a year during the mid-70s. Wolfman Jack would become the show's announcer. Performers for that first episode included Ike & Tina Turner, Don McLean, the Impressions, Rare Earth, Kenny Rankin, the Byrds, and comedian George Carlin. This was the show's theme song. Midnight Special - Johnny RiversHere is one of the performances from February 2, 1973. I Can't Turn You Loose - Ike & Tina TurnerFebruary 2: ...Ross Valory. Along with Neil Schon, Ross is one of the two original members still performing with Journey playing on bass guitar. He has been on every Journey album except "Raised On Radio" from 1986. Loved the bass line on this #4 single from "Escape"... Who's Crying Now - Journey...and this one from "Infinity". Wheel In The Sky - JourneyFebruary 2: ...Graham Nash who turns 73 today. Graham is a 2 time Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame inductee (Hollies and Crosby, Stills, Nash and Young), a published photographer, and has been appointed an Officer of the Order of the British Empire. He has one of the sweetest voices in rock and roll, and it harmonizes perfectly with David Crosby and Stephen Stills. That voice could also be one of protest as it was on this 1971 single that was the follow up to "Chicago". It reached #73 in 1971. Military Madness - Graham Nash
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Post by 1finemrg on Feb 3, 2017 1:10:51 GMT -5
February 3: ... Melanie (Safka-Schekeryk). Melanie made her debut on the radio show "Live Like A Millionaire" at the age of 4, singing "Gimme A Little Kiss". During the 60s she performed at coffee houses in New Jersey. Her parents insisted she attend college, so she studied acting at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts in New York, and performed in Greenwich Village coffee houses. She landed a contract with Columbia Records and recorded a pair of unsuccessful singles. She then signed with Buddah Records, and would find success with her debut album for the label initially in Europe. In August, 1969 she earned $750 for her performance at Woodstock, appearing late on Friday (first night) following Ravi Shankar but before Arlo Guthrie. The experience would inspire her to write her first US Top 40 hit. When Buddah wanted her to produce records on demand, she left and formed her own label Neighborhood Records. She worked with producer Peter Schekeryk who she had married around 1970. They would remain married until his sudden passing in 2010. With Neighborhood, Melanie would have her greatest success with her #1 hit "Brand New Key". On February 26, 1972, Melanie became the first female artist to have three songs in the Top 40 simultaneously (#24 Brand New Key, #34 Ring The Living Bell, #36 The Nickel Song). Melanie still performs today in small venues, often accompanied by her son Beau Jarret. The Woodstock inspired hit in collaboration with the Edwin Hawkins Singers would peak at #6 in 1970. Discovered and love the extended version. Lay Down (Candles In The Rain) - MelanieThe follow up also was a Top 40 hit, reaching #32. Peace Will Come (According To Plan) - MelanieFebruary 3: ...Dave Davies. Dave founded the Kinks with childhood friend Pete Quaife. Brother Ray would join soon after. Although Ray was the songwriter and lead vocalist, Dave's guitar work cannot be underrated. It was Dave (not Jimmy Page) who played one of the most identifiable riffs in rock and roll history. It was made unique for the time when Dave took a razor to his amplifier's speakers creating a raw rebellious sound. You Really Got Me - KinksOne of my favorites was a lost 60s classic when it reached only #50 on the Hot 100 in early 1966. It was a Top 10 hit in the UK. Maybe the poor showing in the US was because it had a similar power cord structure as "You Really Got Me" and "All Day And All Of The Night". Our loss. Till The End Of The Day - KinksFebruary 3: ...Johnny Cymbal who would have been 70 today. Johnny was a multi-talented singer, songwriter and producer. His name was not a stage name, having adopted his step-father's surname at an early age. As a writer, he co-wrote "Mary In The Morning" a #27 standard for Al Martino (#1 on Easy Listening) that was also recorded by Elvis among others. As a singer, Johnny was a one-hit wonder...twice. In 1963, he reached #16 as Johnny Cymbal with this classic: Mr. Bass Man - Johnny CymbalRonnie Bright of the Valentinos provided the bass vocals. Johnny continued recording under different personas. He struck pay dirt a second time in 1968 using his brother first name. The song just missed the Top 10, peaking at #11. Cinnamon - DerekHe contributed songs to the great movie "Tender Mercies" and also "Tough Enough" in the 80s. He unfortunately left us way too soon, passing away from a heart attack in 1993.
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Post by 1finemrg on Feb 4, 2017 8:02:12 GMT -5
February 4: ... Marge and Mary Ann Ganzer. The identical twins were one-half of the girl group the Shangri-Las. In a little under two years (1964-66), the group charted 6 Top 40 hits half of which made the Top 10. They combined with sisters Mary and Betty Weiss to form the vocal group. With Mary Weiss on lead and the lavish production work of George "Shadow" Morton that featured a heavy dose of sound effects, the girls became the queens of teen angst. They also honed a tough image distinguishing them from other girl groups at the time. They often alternated between a quartet and a trio, with one member dropping out for school or other reasons. The group disbanded in 1968, and it was a short life for the twins. Mary Ann was suffering from health issues and passed away in 1970 at the age of 22. Marge died of breast cancer in 1996 at 48. Like the lyric in their #18 hit "Give Him A Great Big Kiss", the Shangri-Las ladies were "good bad, but not evil". We remember their vocal harmonies with their first hit. It peaked at #5 in 1964 and has been famously covered by Aerosmith with an uncredited Mary Weiss on backing vocals. The demo version of the song ran over 7 minutes. Legend has it that version featured session player Billy Joel on piano. Remember (Walkin' In The Sand) - Shangri-Las Billy Joel also played on the demo of the girls only #1 hit. It was parodied by the Detergents, and covered by Twisted Sister and Bette Midler. Leader Of The Pack - Shangri-LasFebruary 4: ...Phil Ehart Phil first joined Kansas in 1970 as their drummer. After leaving in 1971, he rejoined the band in 1973 (third version of Kansas) and has been their drummer to this day. He is also an autism advocate, having spoken at the Autism Power of One Conference in Washington DC. He also co-wrote these two classic tracks. Point Of Know Return - KansasPlay The Game Tonight - KansasFebruary 4: ... Alice Cooper who turns 67 today. In the beginning he was Vince Furnier and the band was Alice Cooper. Eventually he assumed the name and the rest is history for the "Godfather Of Shock Rock". On the Billboard charts "Billion Dollar Babies" reached #1, and there was a pair of #7 singles "School's Out" and "Poison". How's this for coincidence? Listening to internet radio and as I'm typing "Poison" is playing. The follow up to the first Top 40 single, "I'm Eighteen" (peaked at #21) is a great rocker and probably my favorite. A track from the "Killer" album that peaked at #59. Under My Wheels - Alice Cooper
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Post by trekkielo on Feb 4, 2017 11:56:59 GMT -5
February 2: ... The Midnight Special. Burt Sugerman pitched the idea of this musical variety series as a means of capitalizing on the large viewing audience for NBC's "Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson". At that time CBS, NBC, and ABC would go off the air at 1 AM eastern. NBC rejected the idea, so Burt bought the air time and convinced Chevrolet to sponsor the program. The pilot show actually premiered August 19, 1972 as a special. Hosted by John Denver, the show served as a means to encourage people to vote in the upcoming election. The Midnight Special began its Saturday morning weekly run (1 - 2:30 AM Eastern) on February 2, 1973. What made the show unique is that the acts performed live rather than lip-synching to pre-recorded music for the majority of its run. The show was supplemented on occasion by performance footage of older acts. Toward the end, the show's time moved up a half-hour when Johnny Carson cut the length of his show from 90 to 60 minutes. Before the end of its first season, NBC was convinced that the concept was successful and began programming in that time slot 5 nights a week. The talk show "Tomorrow" would be on the other 4 nights. The Midnight Special pulled into the station for the final time May 1, 1981, a couple of months before the dawn of MTV. The first episode was hosted by Helen Reddy. She would become a frequent host and in fact was the regular host for about a year during the mid-70s. Wolfman Jack would become the show's announcer. Performers for that first episode included Ike & Tina Turner, Don McLean, the Impressions, Rare Earth, Kenny Rankin, the Byrds, and comedian George Carlin. This was the show's theme song. Midnight Special - Johnny RiversHere is one of the performances from February 2, 1973. I Can't Turn You Loose - Ike & Tina TurnerElectric Light Orchestra regularly appeared on The Midnight Special (1973, 1975, 1976 & 1977) more than any other band in that show's history with 4 appearances.
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Post by 1finemrg on Feb 5, 2017 7:12:55 GMT -5
Special thanks to Chicago radio personality Bob Stroud for his three hour "Root Salute" to this legendary musician this morning... February 5: ... Hal Blaine Steve Miller may have been a joker, a smoker, and a mid-night toker, but Hal was a Raider, a Beach Boy, a Byrd and a Supreme. He wasn't actually a member of these bands, but when they went into the studio to record there was Hal behind the drum kit. Hal was a member of a group of studio musicians known as The Wrecking Crew. During the 60s and 70s he drummed on thousands of recordings, including approximately 150 Top 10 singles. Of these 40 of them reached the top of the Hot 100. Hal worked on a majority of the Phil Spector sessions kicking off "Be My Baby" with that iconic drum riff, and part of the wall of sound on the Righteous Brothers "You've Lost That Lovin' Feelin'". He drummed for Brian Wilson on the Beach Boys #1 singles "Help Me Rhonda" and "Good Vibrations". He was on #1 recordings for Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, and Petula Clark. The Carpenters, Neil Diamond, and Barbara Streisand all had #1 singles that featured the drum work of Hal Blaine. Many of the hits of the Grassroots and Paul Revere and the Raiders featured Hal on the drums. He is a member of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, having been inducted in 2000. He also hold the distinction of drumming on 6 consecutive Grammy Record of the Year winners. 1966: A Taste Of Honey - Herb Albert & the Tijuana Brass 1967: Strangers In The Night - Frank Sinatra 1968: Up, Up and Away - 5th Dimension 1969: Mrs. Robinson - Simon & Garfunkel 1970: Aquarius/Let the Sun Shine In - 5th Dimension ...and this Grammy awarded in 1971. Bridge Over Troubled Water - Simon & GarfunkelHis first #1 was "Johnny Angel" by Shelley Fabares (Donna Reed, Coach), and his last one was this movie theme. Theme from Mahogany (Do You Know Where You're Going To?) – Diana Ross
February 5: ... Barrett Strong. Barrett collaborated with Norman Whitfield writing the lyrics to some of Motown's most successful and critically acclaimed songs of all time. "I Heard It Through The Grapevine", "War", and "Smiling Faces Sometimes" are prime examples of tracks that come from the heart and soul of Motown. Barrett and Norman ushered in the psychedelic soul era of the Temptations, beginning with "Cloud Nine" which earned Motown its first Grammy award. Barrett received his own Grammy in 1973 for writing "Papa Was A Rolling Stone". Speaking of firsts, Barrett was a Motown recording artist as well. He released a series of singles mostly in the early 60s. Although only one of his 45s reached the Top 40, it played a significant role in the history of Motown. Originally released on Tamla, it was leased to Berry Gordy's sister Anna and her namesake label. It would become their first Top 40 hit. Money (That's What I Want) - Barrett StrongHe also co-authored one of the Temptations best, a song whose lyrics deliver a powerful message to this very day. Ball Of Confusion (That's What The World Is Today) - TemptationsFebruary 5: ...Cory Wells. He provided one-third of the vocal power for Three Dog Night. He was a member from the band's beginning until his passing last year on October 24. He was the lead vocalist on the band's first Top 40 hit... Try A Little Tenderness - Three Dog Night...and the band's first #1 single. It was also the #1 record on the inaugural "American Top 40" show hosted by Casey Kasem. Mama Told Me (Not To Come) - Three Dog NightFebruary 5: Yesterday, birthday wishes went out to Alice Cooper. Today we light 71 candles for Al Kooper. If you measured success in terms of hits in the Hot 100, Al's career would go unnoticed. His contributions to the history of Rock and Roll are legendary. - At 14, he played guitar on the Royal Teens #3 hit "Short Shorts". - He was a co-writer of Gary Lewis & The Playboys #1 hit "This Diamond Ring". - He was on organ when Bob Dylan went electric at the Newport Jazz Festival, and also contributed organ to Dylan's "Like A Rolling Stone". - After a stint with the Blues Project who reached the Hot 100 with "No Time Is The Right Time", Al formed Blood, Sweat And Tears in 1967. They recorded the critically acclaimed "Child Is Father To The Man". He left the band prior to their commercial success due to creative differences. - His next project was another late sixties classic album "Super Sessions" with Mike Bloomfield and Stephen Stills. - He again was on organ for the Rolling Stones' "You Can't Always Get What You Want". - In the 70s he discovered and produced the first three albums for Lynyrd Skynyrd. There are countless recording sessions that Al played on from the likes of B. B. King, The Who, Jimi Hendrix Experience, and Cream. For this one, Al steps up to the mike and belts out this B S & T classic. Their first single, it went uncharted. The Arbors would later reach #67 with their cover. I Can't Quit Her - Blood, Sweat & Tears
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Post by caseyfan100 on Feb 5, 2017 12:13:55 GMT -5
I am going to add another birthday for today February 5th. Hal Blaine is 88 today. As part of the Wrecking Crew,he was the drummer on many of the best known songs in top 40 history. Here are just a few. Be My Baby-The Ronettes,Bridge Over Troubled Water,Mrs. Robinson,A Taste Of Honey (Herb Alpert),Up Up And Away,plus many of the Beach Boys hits,and just about every song Elvis did for his movies in the 60's. He played for many artists from Frank Sinatra to The Partridge Family.
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Post by 1finemrg on Feb 5, 2017 12:19:27 GMT -5
I am going to add another birthday for today February 5th. Hal Blaine is 88 today. As part of the Wrecking Crew,he was the drummer on many of the best known songs in top 40 history. Here are just a few. Be My Baby-The Ronettes,Bridge Over Troubled Water,Mrs. Robinson,A Taste Of Honey (Herb Alpert),Up Up And Away,plus many of the Beach Boys hits,and just about every song Elvis did for his movies in the 60's. He played for many artists from Frank Sinatra to The Partridge Family. Great minds think alike! While you were posting, I was composing my glaring omission. Just listened to a three hour tribute to Hal on Chicago radio station WDRV (the Drive), Bob Stroud's "Rock & Roll Roots" program. Bob's been doing the program for 37 years and no one today does it better IMO.
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Post by slf on Feb 5, 2017 17:06:20 GMT -5
I am going to add another birthday for today February 5th. Hal Blaine is 88 today. As part of the Wrecking Crew,he was the drummer on many of the best known songs in top 40 history. Here are just a few. Be My Baby-The Ronettes,Bridge Over Troubled Water,Mrs. Robinson,A Taste Of Honey (Herb Alpert),Up Up And Away,plus many of the Beach Boys hits,and just about every song Elvis did for his movies in the 60's. He played for many artists from Frank Sinatra to The Partridge Family. Great minds think alike! While you were posting, I was composing my glaring omission. Just listened to a three hour tribute to Hal on Chicago radio station WDRV (the Drive), Bob Stroud's "Rock & Roll Roots" program. Bob's been doing the program for 37 years and no one today does it better IMO. For many years I have taken once or twice-yearly weekend trips to Chicago. Every Sunday morning of those trips, while relaxing in my room at a suburban Motel 6, I make it a point to listen to Bob Stroud's great "Rock & Roll Roots" show. I first discovered it in the spring of 2000, while he was spotlighting the career of the Ides of March. About two years ago, I went on my first Chicago trip in many years and checked out his show after not hearing it in awhile and noticed that he stopped doing weekly artists spotlights or other special themes. While his show is still enjoyable, it's not as riveting and interesting without some special spotlight or theme. (Well, obviously today's show was a themed show. But was this an anomaly, or has Bob returned to regular themed shows?)
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