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Post by 1finemrg on Apr 1, 2016 5:50:37 GMT -5
April 1: ...the late, great Ronnie Lane. Nicknamed "Plonk", he was the bass guitarist and a founding member of Small Faces. When Steve Mariott left to form Humble Pie, Ronnie and Kenney Jones recruited Ron Wood and Rod Stewart to form Faces. When Rod left for a solo career, Ronnie tried to carry on with the band. After their next album was panned by the critics, Ronnie left Faces. He formed Slim Chance which would score 2 UK hits, and recorded a critically acclaimed album "Rough Mix" with Pete Townsend during the 70s. He also released an album "See Me" which featured several songs where he collaborated with Eric Clapton. He was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in 1977. His condition would deteriorate until his passing in 1997, although he would continue to write, record, and tour into the early ninties. The 1983 ARMS charity concerts were organized by Ronnie and his girlfriend to support the fight against the disease. Some of the participants included Eric Clapton, Jimmy Page, Jeff Beck, Kenney Jones, Charlie Watts, and Steve Winwood. The rotating stable of musicians toured in the US, adding Joe Cocker and Paul Rodgers to the mix. Ronnie emigrated to the US in 1984 settling in Austin, Texas and became popular locally over the next decade. He and his wife lived in Trinidad, Colorado from 1994 until his passing. We remember Ronnie with Small Faces only Top 40 US hit which he wrote with Steve Mariott. Itchycoo Park - Small FacesHe also co-wrote this Faces track that featured lead vocals by Ron Wood. Ooh La La - Faces April 1: ...reggae/ska legend Jimmy Cliff. Born in St. James, Jamaica, his career began with a series of local singles starting in 1962. In 1964, he was chosen to represent Jamaica at the World's Fair in New York. He won the International Song Festival in 1967 with "Waterfall". In 1968 he released "Vietnam" a song that was his initial debut on the German, New Zealand, and UK charts. Bob Dylan called it the best protest song he had heard. In 1969, he debuted in the US Top 40 and retained his one hit wonder status for 24 years. He lost his status in 1993 when his version of "I Can See Clearly Now" became his highest charting US Top 40 single peaking at #18. In 1970, Jimmy reached the top ten in several countries with Cat Stevens' "Wild World" several months before Cat would release his own version. Jimmy was elected to the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame in 2009. His US Top 40 debut peaked at #26, definitely a personal favorite. Wonderful World, Beautiful People - Jimmy Cliff
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Post by 1finemrg on Apr 1, 2016 23:40:25 GMT -5
April 2: ...Motown legend Marvin Gaye. He died, shot by his father the day before his 45th birthday on April 1, 1984. He left a legacy of music that rivals all the great artists. Session musician, solo, duets, concept albums, love songs, dance grooves, he made his mark in all these areas stretching boundaries wherever possible. Even the genius of Berry Gordy was proven wrong in assuming there were limitations of what Marvin could achieve. Barry doubted that Marvin could have a hit with "I Heard It Through The Grapevine" so soon after Gladys Knight and the Pips took their version to #2. It turned out to be the biggest hit of his career, spending 7 weeks atop the Hot 100. Berry doubted that Marvin would achieve success recording a concept album. "What's Going On" would become a benchmark recording bringing to attention issues such as the ecology, inner city strife, and the ongoing Vietnam war. In the beginning, he sang backup at Chess records for the likes of Chuck Berry. His contract was purchased by Motown, and he was a session drummer on early Miracles and Marvelettes hits. He also co-wrote the Marvelttes hit "Beechwood 4-5789". His solo career began with the Top 10 R&B hit "Stubborn Kind Of Fellow". Among his 17 Top 10 hits (solo and duo) were three #1 records. He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1987, and in 2016 he will be inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame. Always liked this duet with Tammi Terrell that doesn't get played as often. Peaked at #10 on the Hot 100 and #2 R&B. If I Could Build My Whole World Around You - Marvin Gaye & Tammi TerrellAnother one not played as often, this brooding, ominous song reached #7 in 1969. That's The Way Love Is - Marvin GayeThis memorable live performance at the 1983 NBA All-Star Game actually was also the first video shown on VH-1. The Star Spangled Banner - Marvin GayeApril 2: ...Leon Russell His talents were first realized as part of the Wrecking Crew, the Los Angeles group of session musicians that backed sixties recording artists such as the Mamas And Papas, Association, the Beach Boys and Cher . He was hired by Snuff Garrett as his assistant and creative developer. He played on Gary Lewis and the Playboys #1 hit "This Diamond Ring'" and was writer or co-writer on their "Everybody Loves A Clown" and "She's Just My Style" Top 10 hits. He would go on to join Delaney & Bonnie & Friends and also helped to organize and play on Joe Cocker's Mad Dogs And Englishmen tour. He's written standards such as "A Song For You" and "This Masquerade" as well as "Superstar", the Carpenters Top 10 smash. Leon just missed the Top 10 as a solo artist. "Tightrope" peaked at #11 in 1972. His other top 40 hit "Lady Blue" made it to #14 in 1975. More recently, Leon was elected to the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame in 2010 and entered the Songwriters Hall Of Fame in 2011. He also recorded a highly successful album "The Union" with Elton John and Bernie Taupin in 2010. In 1972, he bought down the house with this live medley from the "Concert For Bangladesh". Medley: Jumpin' Jack Flash/Young Blood - Leon Russell
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Post by 1finemrg on Apr 2, 2016 23:05:02 GMT -5
April 3: ...Jan Berry. With Dean Torrance, the duo epitomized the Southern California life style in the early sixties in their music hitting the Top 10 five times. The duo's career was hampered when Jan suffered severe head injuries in a horrific automobile accident 50 years ago this month. He would combat his physical and mental setbacks and ultimately get back to touring and singing until his passing in 2004. Here's one for the dragsters which would peak at #8 in 1964. The song's location was only a few blocks from where Jan would crash his car two years later. Jan collaborated with Roger Christian, Brian Wilson and Artie Kornfeld on this classic. Dead Man's Curve - Jan & DeanNow one for the surfers, their only #1 hit. Brian Wilson collaborated on this 1963 track as well, and guitar work was courtesy of Glen Campbell. Surf City - Jan & Dean
April 3: ...Jeff Barry. With Ellie Greenwich, the pair wrote some of the most memorable songs of the sixties. Songs like "Be My Baby", "Da Doo Ron Ron", "Christmas (Baby Please Come Home)", and "Chapel Of Love" will forever be identified with that era. They discovered and helped launch the career of Neil Diamond. Jeff and Ellie would divorce in the mid-sixties and Jeff would go on to produce some of the Monkees early hits, and write and produce Ron Dante. Ron was the lead vocalist of the fictitious group, The Archies. Together with Andy Kim, they wrote and produced "Sugar Sugar". Speaking of Andy Kim, Jeff founded Steed Records in the late sixties and would score hits with Kim and Robin McNamara. In the seventies, he moved to California and composed several instantly recognizable TV theme songs including "One Day At A Time", "The Jeffersons" and "Family Ties". He also continued to create hits on the charts including the #1 single "I Honestly Love You" which he co-wrote with Peter Allen. Ellie Greenwich and Jeff Barry had recorded as the Raindrops in the early sixties. Their only Top 40 hit was "The Kind Of Boy You Can't Forget" which peaked at #17 in 1963. "That Boy John" was the follow-up and it peaked at #64. The "B" side of "That Boy John" was almost immediately covered by an unknown artist from Michigan. It took over two years, but that version would go on to top the Hot 100. Hanky Panky - Tommy James and the ShondellsAnother artist on Jeff's Steed label was this Long Island group that peaked at #32 with this rocker. We'll go with the seven minute album version Did You See Her Eyes - The Illusion April 3: ...Tony Orlando. He was discovered by Don Kirshner, and became a teen idol in the early sixties. He was the first vocalist to sign with Epic reocords, charting in the top 40 twice with "Bless You" and "Halfway To Paradise". In the mid-sixties he wrote a local Chicago hit for the New Colony Six, "I'm Just Waiting (Anticipating For Her To Show Up)". He ventured into the business side, becoming a vice-president at CBS records in the April-Blackwood division in the mid to late sixties working with the likes of James Taylor and Laura Nyro. As a favor to friends Hank Medress and Dave Appell, he agreed to be the demo voice on a song titled "Candida". It was released under the name Dawn, the first name of the record promoter director's daughter. It went to #1 and Dawn's career is very well chronicled from this point forward. He has performed in Branson, Missouri for over 20 years. In the nineties, he paired with Wayne Newton sharing a theater for a couple of years. The partnership failed as well as their personal relationship, weighed down by lawsuits and countersuits which were eventually dropped. Coincidentally Tony and Wayne also share the same birthday. Before Dawn, Tony reached #28 in 1969 as lead vocalist of this studio group. He channels Frankie Valli in this overlooked classic written by Joey Levine (Ohio Express, Reunion) and Bo Gentry. Make Believe - Wind
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Post by 1finemrg on Apr 3, 2016 22:50:31 GMT -5
April 4: ...Michael Fennelly. Michael began as a studio musician contributing to an album by Sagittarius. He then joined the Milennium. Both bands made minor musical contributions during his tenure. Toward the end of the sixties, he joined the band Stonehedge. A name change by the band resulted in their only Top 40 hit, and their critically acclaimed self-titled album (by no less than Lester Bangs). Unfortunately, the momentum would not carry over to the follow-up album "Rotten To The Core", causing the band's breakup. Michael would release some solo material and do some session work with Steely Dan during the seventies. He is still active today. In 2013, Sundazed Records released Michael's compilation "Love Can Change Everything: Demos 1967-1972". Here's the title track: Love Can Change Everything - Michael FennellyThat Top 40 hit? In the linear notes to his 2013 release, Michael said he was trying to write the perfect pop song. Through my ears, it was mission accomplished (drop the mike and walk offstage). It ranks #1 on my list of favorite one-hit-wonders, sounding as fresh today as it did when it appeared on the first Casey Kasem's AT 40 show. Holding at #37 on the July 10, 1970 survey (airing July 4), it would peak at #36 one week later. Beginning with a derivative "I Think Were Alone Now" bass line, great drum fills, and electrifying guitar riffs, they all accent the strained tuneful vocals and sing-along chorus. It is 2 minutes 45 seconds of pure enjoyment. We'll double our pleasure with the 1969 demo followed by the 1970 master. Go Back - Crabby AppletonApril 4: ...Muddy Waters (McKinley Morganfield) who would have been 102 today. It could be Foghat or the Rolling Stones performing "I Just Want To Make Love To You". Maybe it's the Yardbirds or a young Rod Stewart taking on "Good Morning Little Schoolgirl". Van Morrison with Them or Ted Nugent with the Amboy Dukes working up "Baby Please Don't Go" could have made you sit up and take notice. No matter which road of the above you take they all lead back to the Father of modern Chicago Blues, Muddy Waters. Of course when you're working Willie Dixon, Otis Spann, Little Walter Jacobs, Jimmy Rodgers, and Elgin Evans, musicians who were legends in their own right, something timeless is bound to happen. Rolling Stone ranked 4 of his songs among the Top 500 of all time. He won 6 Grammys before his passing in 1983, and he was inducted into the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame in 1987. Written by Preston Foster and originally performed by Ann Cole, Muddy's definitive rendition ranks #357 in the Rolling Stone 500 greatest hits of all time. Some of the other acts that covered this tune include Alexis Korner (1964), the Paul Butterfield Blues Band (1965), Canned Heat (1969), Elvis Presley (1970), Rory Gallagher (1971), J. J. Cale (1972), B. B. King (1977), Buddy Guy (1977), Otis Rush (1986), Etta James (2004), Eric Clapton (2011), and Johnny Winter (2011). Got My Mojo Working - Muddy Waters
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Post by 1finemrg on Apr 5, 2016 5:44:56 GMT -5
April 5: Mike McCready. Guitarist and founding member of Pearl Jam, Mike has also worked on several side projects through the years. He has been in Temple of the Dog with Soundgarden's Chris Cornell and Eddie Vedder, the Seattle rock supergroup Mad Season (members of Pearl Jam, Alice In Chains, and Screaming Trees), Flight To Mars and The Rockfords. Pearl Jam is currently on tour which will conclude with two sold out shows at both Fenway Park in Boston and Wrigley Field in Chicago. He wrote the music to this single that topped the Mainstream Rock chart and reached #21 in 1998. Given To Fly - Pearl JamHis guitar work is front and center on this Top 20 single from their 1994 album "Vitalogy". Spin The Black Circle - Pearl JamApril 5: ...Allan Clarke of the Hollies Allan was a founding member of the Hollies, along with his childhood friend Graham Nash. He was lead vocalist on most of their hits through the sixties and early seventies. In the US, none of their 6 Top 10 singles topped the charts. Their biggest hit was "Long Cool Woman (In A Black Dress)" which reached #2. He sang lead vocals and played guitar on that classic, then left the band until the mid-seventies. The Hollies had 32 singles chart in the UK, 17 of which made the Top 10. In 1988, a reissue of "He Ain't Heavy, He's My Brother" made it to #1. Their other #1 single did not crack the Hot 100 in the US, peaking at #103. It was the last single released before their initial US Top 40 breakthrough "Look Through Any Window". I'm Alive - Hollies
Allan also loaned his vocal talents to this FM radio staple from the late 70s. Breakdown - Alan Parsons Project
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Post by 1finemrg on Apr 5, 2016 22:16:40 GMT -5
April 6: ...Tony Connor. He the drummer for Hot Chocolate, joining the band in 1973 and still performing with them today. The band is on an European tour and is scheduled for a 10 date Australia tour later in 2016. Saluting Tony on his birthday with their only #1 UK hit. Unlike most of their hits, this one was not a composition by band member Errol Brown. It was composed by Russ Ballard. So You Win Again - Hot ChocolateFrom 1978, this one was a winner in the US, where it peaked at #6. But hey... Every 1's A Winner - Hot ChocolateApril 6: ...country legend, Merle Haggard. He's had thirty-eight #1 singles on the country charts, and was honored at the Kennedy Center in 2010. He's a 1994 inductee into the Country Music Hall Of Fame. He's even a one-hit wonder on the pop charts. His "If We Make It Through December" peaked at #28 in 1973. For all his memorable country standards such as "Okie From Muskogee", "The Fightin' Side Of Me", "Mama Tried" and "Workin' Man's Blues", his signature song was actually a "B" side of his #1 country smash "The Legend Of Bonnie And Clyde". It's been covered by a wide range of artists from Bettye Swann (peaked at #46 in the Hot 100), to Al Martino (Hot 100, #86), to Sammi Smith (Country Singles, #9). He co-wrote the song with his then-wife Bonnie Owens. Today I Started Loving You Again - Merle Haggard
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Post by 1finemrg on Apr 7, 2016 5:26:56 GMT -5
April 7: ...Bruce Gary. Drummer for the Knack, Bruce was also a noted session player working with Bob Dylan, George Harrison, Rod Stewart, Dr. John, and Bette Midler. He also drummed for blues greats Albert King and John Lee Hooker. He produced the Ventures on some of their later albums as well as worked on production projects involving Jimi Hendrix's archival recordings. He succumbed to Hodgkins lymphoma in 2006. Who can forget the instantly recognizable drum beat that kicks off the #1 single of 1979? My Sharona - KnackI liked the #11 follow up as well. Good Girls Don't - KnackApril 7: ...John Oates In 1967, John was part of a Philly group the Masters who were in a band competition. Escaping from a gang battle, he met Daryl Hall then of the Temptones in a service elevator. They became friends eventually forming Hall & Oates in 1970. He's primarily known as the guitarist in the duo, but he co-wrote many of their hits. He's a 2004 Songwriter Hall of Fame and a 2014 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame (with Daryl Hall) inductee. They topped the Hot 100 six times. Outside the duo, he is noted for co-writing and backup vocals on Icehouse's Top 10 single "Electric Blue" in the late 80s. John takes the mike for this live version of a Daryl Hall and John Oates classic. The studio version became a Top 10 hit the third time it was released as a single. She's Gone (live) - John Oates
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Post by 1finemrg on Apr 8, 2016 5:31:39 GMT -5
April 8: ...Steve Howe. As a well accomplished guitarist, Steve's resume includes Yes, Asia, and over a dozen and a half solo and trio efforts. With Yes, he joined the group for their third album "The Yes Album" and continued into the early 80s (Drama). He joined Asia for their first 2 albums. Since then, he has reunited with both bands several times as well as been a member of the derivative bands GTR and Anderson Bruford Wakeman Howe. His most recent solo effort is the sixth in the Homebrew series, released last month. They feature new songs and reworkings of tunes from various times in his career. The recordings have a demo feel to them. His most commercially successful work with Yes was recorded on the "Fragile" album in 1971. A single edit peaked at #13 from 1972. Roundabout - YesFrom Asia, this track from their self-titled debut peaked at #10 on the Hot Mainstream Rock Tracks chart. Sole Survivor - AsiaApril 8: ...Julian Lennon With his mother Cynthia's passing a week ago, condolences are also offered. Like his grandmother Julia for whom he was named, Julian has also been a musical source of inspiration for the Beatles. "Hey Jude" was a song of consolation to Julian in the wake of his father's divorce from Cynthia. "Lucy In The Sky With Diamonds" is based on a drawing Julian gave his father. "Goodnight" was written as a lullaby to Julian. Musically, his first appearance was at 11 tears old playing drums on "Ya Ya" a track from John's "Walls And Bridges" album. He has reached the Top 40 four times, two of which peaked in the Top 10. His highest charting single "Too Late For Goodbyes" peaked at #5. He has topped the Album Rock Tracks twice, and was nominated for a Best New Artist Grammy in 1985. He has also achieved success with photography. His "Horizons" series is currently featured at the Emmanuel Fremin Gallery in New York. He has also published a book showcasing his Beatles memorabilia. Inspired by his father, he founded the White Feather Foundation which is involved with humanitarian and environmental issues. The title track from his first album was also a #9 single (a #9 dream if you will). Probably like many others, I thought it was John the first time I heard it. A great song. Valotte - Julian Lennon
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Post by 1finemrg on Apr 8, 2016 23:28:07 GMT -5
April 9: ...Steve Gadd. He began working as a drummer with brothers Chuck and Gap Mangione. He was drafted into the Army and spent three years as a drummer in the Army music program in the early seventies. He formed a trio for a short time, but turned to studio work as his main calling. He most recently toured with James Taylor in 2014, and completed a European tour early in 2016. Phil Collins: How many drummers does it take to change a light bulb? Ten. And then another ten to talk about how Steve Gadd would have done it. Sessions he's worked on? Let's start with Frank Sinatra, Paul McCartney, Eric Clapton, James Taylor, Joe Cocker, and the Bee Gees. Those are some of the highlights. The big hits? How about this #1 disco smash... The Hustle - Van McCoy...or the drums that kick off this #1 from a Rock and Roll Hall of Famer? 50 Ways To Leave Your Lover - Paul SimonSomething a little more sophisticated? His drum work was one of the highlights of this album track. Aja - Steely DanHow about jazz? Besides the Mangiones, he's worked with Chick Corea, George Benson, Hubert Laws, Al Jarreau, and Rickie Lee Jones. He was behind the kit on this #2 hit from the 80s. Just The Two Of Us - Grover Washington Jr. (with Bill Withers)April 9: ...the "King of Rockabilly", the late great Carl Perkins. He was a part of the legendary "Million Dollar Quartet" that gathered together that fateful day at Sun Records. He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1987. Several of his rockabilly classics like "Matchbox" and "Everybody's Trying To Be My Baby" were covered by the Beatles. His only Top 40 hit peaked at #4 in 1956 (#2 Cashbox). The recording received a Grammy Hall of Fame in 1986, and was the first million selling single for Sun records. Don't step on them... Blue Suede Shoes - Carl Perkins
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Post by 1finemrg on Apr 10, 2016 0:03:05 GMT -5
April 10: ...Bobby Smith. Bobby was the principal lead singer of the Spinners from their formation in 1954 until his passing in 2013. There has been confusion over the years who was the lead vocalist, with even Atlantic crediting Phillippe Wynne rather than Bobby Smith on certain recordings and vice versa. In a 2014 interview, the last original member Henry Fambrough (still touring) is quoted regarding the lead singer confusion. "Bobby (Smith) was always our major lead singer for all those years. Had always been. Always will be." He sang lead on their first Top 40 hit from 1961 (not Harvey Fuqua)... That's What Girls Are Made For - Spinners...and their first Top 5 hit in 1972. It started as a "B" side, but when "How Could I Let You Get Away" stalled at #77 deejays flipped the 45 over. Peaked at #3 and was the group's first #1 R&B single, topping the charts for 5 weeks. The group was backed by MFSB on the recording. I'll Be Around - SpinnersApril 10: ...Brian Setzer He was the front man for the Stray Cats, reviving rockabilly that was popularized in the 50s by acts like our April 9 spotlight Carl Perkins. They formed as the Tomcats and toured the Northeast in 1979-1980 gaining local notoriety. In 1980, the band decided to move to London. They believed the UK would be more open to their rockabilly style. The transition was successful, gaining popularity in the UK under the production guidance of Dave Edmunds. After releasing two successful albums and several singles, they made a breakthrough in the US with "Built For Speed" mostly a to-date compilation of their UK output. They reached the Top 10 three times in the US, the most popular being the #3 single "Stray Cat Strut". The band separated in 1984, but would reunite occasionally to tour and record albums into the early 90s. After the Stray Cats split, Brian would tour with the Honeydrippers as lead guitarist and played Eddie Cochran in the movie "La Bamba". He would also release a pair of solo albums "The Knife Feels Like Justice" and "Live Nude Guitars" which met with minor success commercially. The albums which carried forward the rockabilly Stray Cats style but steered the sound toward basic rock and roll were praised critically. In the mid-90s, Brian took the rockabilly sound to a different level integrating it with a 16 piece big band. The Brian Setzer Orchestra released a series of successful albums into the 2000s. He is currently set to tour as "Brian Setzer's Rockabilly Riot" with George Thorogood beginning in May. In 1998, the Brian Setzer Orchestra reached the Top 10 on the album charts with "The Dirty Boogie" and cracked the Hot 100 with this revival of a Louis Prima classic. Jump, Jive 'N Wail - Brian Setzer Orchestra
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Post by 1finemrg on Apr 11, 2016 5:25:03 GMT -5
April 11: ...Lisa Stansfield. The English singer/songwriter grew up listening to soul music, her mom being a fan of Diana Ross and the Supremes. In 1980, she won the "Search For A Star " competition, which led to a series of television show appearances and some unsuccessful single releases. She was the subject of a 1983 documentary "Born in the Sixties: Lisa Stansfield". She also appeared on the children's television programs "Razamatazz" and "The Krankies Club". 1984 saw Lisa form Blue Zone with her school mates. Over the next four years, they made some minor chart inroads with "Jackie" reaching #54 on the Hot 100 in 1988. She wrote and sang "People Hold On" with the electronic duo Coldcut. It peaked at #11 in the UK in 1989. Arista records soon after signed her to a solo recording contract. She broke through in 1989 with her first solo album "Affection". It was a Top 10 smash worldwide and generated three Top 40 singles in the US. In the UK, she reached the Top 10 with her first four albums and seven singles. She released a "Live In Manchester" DVD last year, and performed in Switzerland last week. Her signature song reached #1 globally and peaked at #3 on the Hot 100. All Around The World - Lisa StansfieldShe cites Marvin Gaye and Barry White as major influences. She remade Barry's 1973 Top 10 hit in 1997. Never, Never Gonna Give You Up - Lisa StansfieldApril 11: Richard Berry who would have been 80 today. As mentioned on the January 25th birthday spotlight, he was the male voice on the Etta James #1 R&B hit "The Wallflower (Roll With Me Henry)". In 1955 he was performing with a Latin band, the Rhythm Rockers. While waiting to do his set, an instrumental by the Rhythm Rockers caught his attention. He thought it was a perfect tune to set to lyrics so he wrote them on a piece of toilet paper. The viewpoint of the song was that the title character was being talked to, not the one singing the song. He recorded it as a smooth love song and in 1956 released it as the "B" side to a country/R&B version of "You Are My Sunshine" on the Flip label. The song did not chart. Discouraged with the music business, in 1957 he sold the song's rights along with 4 others for $750 to a record company owner. It was forgotten until discovered in a record bin in the Portland, Oregon area by a local band. They recorded their version in a small recording studio. The mike was set so high that lead singer Jack Ely's vocals were not recorded clearly. The result was a raw three chord rock classic with vocals that were very difficult to understand. Although they had remained faithful to Richard's lyrics, rumors of them being suggestive caused a few radio stations to ban the recording. This did not stop the song from spending six weeks in the #2 position. It was introduced to a whole new generation in 1978 due to the widespread success of the movie "Animal House". Richard Berry commented on the song: "I could never understand the popularity of it. It was a song with three stupid guitar-chord changes in it. Every young musician I have met have told me that it was the first song they learned to play. I can believe that; it's such an easy song to play." With legal assistance, he was able to win back some of his rights to the song during the 80s. He passed away in 1997. "Me gotta go." Louie Louie - KingsmenLouie Louie - Richard Berry and the Pharaohs
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Post by 1finemrg on Apr 11, 2016 22:24:36 GMT -5
April 12: ...Vince Gill. He entered country music as a solo artist in 1983. He has garnered 20 Grammy awards, the most of any male country music artist. He has topped the country charts 4 times solo and once with Reba McEntire. He also peaked at #2 an additional seven times, but has never made the Top 40 (pop) as a solo artist. That's not to say that he never reached the Top 40 on the Hot 100. Prior to going solo, he turned down an offer by Mark Knopfler to join Dire Straits. He did however chart as lead singer of this band from 1979 - 1982. This one peaked at #10 in 1980. Let Me Love You Tonight - Pure Prairie LeagueThe follow up reached #28 in 1981. Still Right Here In My Heart - Pure Prairie LeagueApril 12: ...John Kay, a man who was "Born To Be Wild". He was born in East Germany. His mother fled the country during World War II taking him to West Germany which was occupied by the British. In 1958, the family moved to Canada. He joined Sparrow in 1965 and the band was moderately successful in Canada. After relocating to California in 1967, they were renamed Steppenwolf. The nucleus of the band remained together from 1968 to 1972. Their first three albums and singles went Top 10, and a double live LP also reached the Top 10. "Born To Be Wild" was their highest charting single, peaking at #2. After a brief solo career which produced one Hot 100 single "I'm Movin' On", the band for the most part reunited from 1974-1976. From this era, a single "Straight Shootin' Woman" reached the Top 30 in 1974. Since 1980, John has toured with various members under the Steppenwolf or John Kay and Steppenwolf moniker. He sold the rights to Steppenwolf (aka Wolf World) in 2012 to his manager, but retained the right to tour as John Kay and Steppenwolf to this day. Appropriately, from their third album "At Your Birthday Party" here's the closing track. Happy Birthday - Steppenwolf
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Post by 1finemrg on Apr 13, 2016 5:43:25 GMT -5
April 13: ...Bill Conti. Famous for his compositions of musical scores to many movies, he won an Academy Award for "The Right Stuff" and was nominated two other times. He holds the record for appearances as musical director of the Academy awards, garnering 3 Emmys among the nineteen times he performed those duties. He has also composed television themes including "Dynasty", "Cagney & Lacey", "Falcon Crest", and "American Gladiators". He wrote the themes to the first five movies of this franchise, including the first one which topped the Hot 100 and was nominated for an Oscar. Gonna Fly Now (Theme From "Rocky") - Bill ContiHe also co-wrote this Oscar-nominated theme song from the James Bond series. It would peak at #4 on the Hot 100 in 1981. Bill wanted Donna Summer or Dusty Springfield to be the performing artist, but United Artists suggested a relative newcomer. She is the only artist to appear in the opening credits of a Bond movie singing the theme. For Your Eyes Only - Sheena EastonApril 13: ... Reverend Al Green He first charted as Al Greene And The Soul Mates in 1968 reaching #41 with "Back Up Train". Signed to Hi Records By Willie Mitchell, Al released a series of top 10 classics from 1971 to 1975, peaking with the #1 smash "Let's Stay Together". His first Top 40 hit "Tired Of Being Alone" just missed the Top 10, peaking at #11 but went gold. He left the secular world in the late seventies, recording only gospel music over the next several years. He returned to the Top 10 in the late eighties, covering "Put A Little Love In Your Heart" in a duet with Annie Lennox. It was featured in the movie "Scrooged". He is the recipient of multiple Grammy awards, and inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1994. He is also a member of the Gospel Music and Songwriters Halls of Fame. He's been honored as a BMI icon and earned a BET Lifetime Achievement Award. In 2014, he was honored at The Kennedy Center. The reverend continues his preaching in Memphis, a stone's throw from Graceland. Doubling our pleasure honoring Al today. His first Hot 100 hit on the Hi label is a smoldering cover of a #1 Temptations single from 1969. His 1970 version reached #60. I Can't Get Next To You - Al GreenIt was the song that introduced us to Talking Heads in 1977, but he wrote and recorded the original. Take Me To The River - Al Green
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Post by 1finemrg on Apr 13, 2016 22:05:05 GMT -5
April 14: ...June Millington. With her sister Jean, they formed the Svelts going to school by day and performing at night. The ladies upped their profile by re-joining the band in 1968 now named Wild Honey. They were opening for CCR and the Youngbloods, but being an all female group was preventing them from making progress in a male dominated business. In frustration, they decided to perform one last gig before disbanding. It was an open mike night at the Troubador Club in West Hollywood. The secretary to producer Richard Perry witnessed the performance. He was looking for an all female band to work with, and upon her recommendation signed them to the Reprise label. Renamed Fanny, they were the first all female rock group release an album with a major label. With June on lead guitar, they recorded four albums with Reprise and reached the Top 40 once. The band's biggest hit "Butter Boy" was recorded after June left and the reformed band had signed with Casablanca records. In the proceeding years, June has become an advocate for women's music as well as gay and lesbian rights. June has been called a godmother of women's music and Fanny has served as inspiration for female bands like the Runaways, Go-Gos and Bangles. The band's first Top 40 single peaked at #40 late in 1971. In Chicago, it reached #3 on both WLS and WCFL. Charity Ball - FannyThey covered Marvin Gaye for the follow-up which would peak at #85 in 1972. Ain't That Peculiar - FannyApril 14: ... Tony Burrows. Tony Burrows is best known as a session singer in the UK. As a solo artist, he reached #86 in the US with "Melanie Makes Me Smile". In the early seventies Tony's voice was heard quite often on AM radio. If there was a one-hit wonder hall of fame, he would be the equivalent of Eric Clapton. As lead vocalist of this studio group, their only Top 40 hit reached #5 in March 1970. www.youtube.com/watch?v=b9XyhFQeob0This one debuted in April 1970 and was this studio group's only Top 40 hit reaching #13. www.youtube.com/watch?v=XXPDZA3m6SMAlso debuting in April 1970, he was the male lead on the first of 2 Top 40 hits for this studio group. It also peaked at #13. www.youtube.com/watch?v=RZB96cvBjy8In 1974, this studio group reached #4 with this memorable summer classic. www.youtube.com/watch?v=ii4ON7XHGCAFor all fans of Benny Hill, Tony's gravelly voice duetted with Roger Greenway on this #9 hit from May 1970. Gimme Dat Ding - Pipkins
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Post by trekkielo on Apr 14, 2016 23:53:05 GMT -5
April 14: ...June Millington. With her sister Jean, they formed the Svelts going to school by day and performing at night. The ladies upped their profile by re-joining the band in 1968 now named Wild Honey. They were opening for CCR and the Youngbloods, but being an all female group was preventing them from making progress in a male dominated business. In frustration, they decided to perform one last gig before disbanding. It was an open mike night at the Troubador Club in West Hollywood. The secretary to producer Richard Perry witnessed the performance. He was looking for an all female band to work with, and upon her recommendation signed them to the Reprise label. Renamed Fanny, they were the first all female rock group release an album with a major label. With June on lead guitar, they recorded four albums with Reprise and reached the Top 40 once. The band's biggest hit "Butter Boy" was recorded after June left and the reformed band had signed with Casablanca records. In the proceeding years, June has become an advocate for women's music as well as gay and lesbian rights. June has been called a godmother of women's music and Fanny has served as inspiration for female bands like the Runaways, Go-Gos and Bangles. The band's first Top 40 single peaked at #40 late in 1971. In Chicago, it reached #3 on both WLS and WCFL. Charity Ball - Fannyen.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fanny_(band)
In a 1999 interview with Rolling Stone, Fanny fan David Bowie revealed his respect for the band:
One of the most important female bands in American rock has been buried without a trace. And that is Fanny. They were one of the finest... rock bands of their time, in about 1973. They were extraordinary... they're as important as anybody else who's ever been, ever; it just wasn't their time. Revivify Fanny. And I will feel that my work is done.
— David Bowie
Fanny's appearance on Sonny & Cher from September 1971
The reformed 1974 band that also got to the Top 40 only one time at #29 with "Butter Boy" in 1975 had Patti Quatro, Suzi's sister, and Brie Howard
Then this latter day lineup including Addie Lee did background vocal work for other artists, most notably, Electric Light Orchestra's 1976 album A New World Record
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