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Post by 1finemrg on Nov 7, 2016 6:34:29 GMT -5
November 7: ... Johnny Rivers. Johnny began hitting the charts as Beatlemania was beginning to conquer the world. His "Whisky A Go-Go Sound" was quite successful resulting from a one year contract he had signed with the new club. A live recording of his performance proved very popular and he just missed the top of the charts. A cover of Chuck Berry's "Memphis" peaked at #2. Though many of his hits were cover tunes, Johnny would reach #1 with "Poor Side Of Town" a song he co-wrote with Lou Adler. Johnny would rack up 9 Top 10 hits, the last one being 1977s "Swayin' To The Music (Slow Dancin')" a lost 70s classic originally charted by the Funky Kings. Johnny was a co-founder of Soul City Records which helped to launch the career of the Fifth Dimension and Al Wilson. He also performed the theme to the 70s TV show "The Midnight Special". His cover had peaked at #20 in 1965. Johnny is still performing today. He is scheduled to perform at the 2017 Winter Dance Party at the Surf Ballroom in Clear Lake, Iowa. Released in late 1967, this #14 hit is a great tune written by Jim Hendricks. It's a look back reminiscing about the "Summer of Love". Summer Rain - Johnny RiversSupported by the Wrecking Crew, this Huey 'Piano' Smith 50s cover peaked at #6 early in 1973. Rockin' Pneumonia and the Boogie Woogie Flu - Johnny RiversNovember 7: ...Joni Mitchell. Joni is in the group photo of the most important songwriters of the rock and roll era. She's an eight time Grammy award winner and a 1997 Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee. She can paint a picture literally and figuratively. She has designed much of her album artwork and is credited as sole producer on the majority of her albums. Her words paint vivid pictures as well. It's amazing how she defined one of the iconic events of the late sixties without even being in attendance. A live performance from 1969, it was written out of disappointment of not being there. Her manager told her it would be more advantageous for her career to appear on the Dick Cavett Show. Woodstock - Joni MitchellCommercially, her biggest success was with her 1974 album "Court And Spark" which included the Top 10 hit "Help Me". But songs like "Both Sides, Now", "Chelsea Morning", "Big Yellow Taxi", "The Circle Game" and "River" will forever be a part of the songbook of music lovers for generations to come. One of my favorites was her first Top 40 hit. Her record label had a desire for her to write a hit record, so she did. It features the harmonica playing of Graham Nash. You Turn Me On, I'm A Radio - Joni Mitchell
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Post by 1finemrg on Nov 8, 2016 6:48:48 GMT -5
November 8: ... Bonnie Bramlett. Bonnie began singing professionally at thirteen backing R&B singers such as Albert King and Fontella Bass. She at one point also backed Ike and Tina Turner as one of the Ikettes. Moving to Los Angeles, she met Delaney Bramlett in the mid-60s. They were married and in the late 60s began touring as Delaney & Bonnie & Friends. Some of the "Friends" included occasional appearances by Duane Allman, George Harrison, and Dave Mason. Most notably Eric Clapton was also a part of the touring group. As Delaney and Bonnie, they charted several Hot 100 hits of which two reached the Top 40. The duo was also very instrumental in launching Eric Clapton's career. Delaney produced his self-titled debut album and he and Bonnie co-wrote the classic "Let It Rain" with Eric. The duo would have a daughter Bekka who would be a member of Fleetwood Mac briefly in the early 90s. Delaney and Bonnie split personally and professionally in 1972. Bonnie would release some solo efforts through the years, and become an actress of note. She played a bartender in "The Doors" movie, and appeared for a couple of seasons on the TV series "Roseanne". She also co-wrote and sang the original version of this song. A "B" side for the duo, it would become a #3 hit for the Carpenters. Groupie (Superstar) - Delaney & BonnieThe duo reached the Top 40 peaking at #13 with "Never Ending Song Of Love" and went halfway up the Top 40 with this Dave Mason cover. Only You Know And I Know - Delaney & BonnieNovember 8: ...Bonnie Raitt. It took Bonnie 19 years and 10 albums for her to receive the recognition she truly deserved. The 10 time Grammy award winner and 2000 Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee plans to tour in 2016 in support of her new release "Dig In Deep". One of my favorite cover tunes was Bonnie's first charting 45. It reached #57 in 1977. Runaway - Bonnie RaittThis great track from the 4 time Grammy award wining "Nick Of Time" announced her arrival. Great slide guitar work and the video features an appearance from Dennis Quaid. Thing Called Love - Bonnie Raitt
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Post by 1finemrg on Nov 9, 2016 6:44:55 GMT -5
November 9: ... Tom Fogerty. Rhythm guitarist for Creedence Clearwater Revival, Tom began as a lead vocalist in the late 50s with his brother John's band the Blue Velvets backing him. By the mid-60 the group was known as the Golliwogs and began recording for Fantasy Records. Eventually John wrested control of the band as primary lead vocalist and songwriter. In 1968, the band was renamed Creedence Clearwater Revival and began a brief but extremely successful commercial career. They released 5 Top 10 albums between January, 1969 and December, 1970. and 9 Top 10 singles between 1969 and 1971. Five of the singles peaked at #2 and the majority were two-sided hits. Sadly, what turned to be life-long disputes polarizing John against the other members and Fantasy Records caused the band to implode in 1972. Tom had left the band the previous year and would have a moderately successful solo career. The band would reunite twice, in 1980 for Tom's wedding and a school reunion in 1983. The rift between the Fogerty brothers was never resolved and Tom passed away in 1990. Remembering Tom with a pair of "B" sides, the flip to the #3 "Down On The Corner". A great cover by Bob Seger appears on his second live album "Nine Tonight". Fortunate Son - Creedence Clearwater RevivalThis is the flip of the #8 hit "Have You Ever Seen The Rain?" Hey Tonight - Creedence Clearwater RevivalNovember 9: ...Alan Gratzer. Drummer Alan Gratzer was one of the founding members of REO Speedwagon when the band was formed in 1967. He remained with the band until retiring in 1989. In 1983 Alan was part of a jam session led by Queen guitarist Brian May. Credited to Brian May & Friends, the EP "Star Fleet Project" was released. Other participants included Eddie Van Halen, keyboardist Fred Mandel (Alice Cooper), and Phil Chen (Rod Stewart). Alan relocated to California upon his retirement, and has worked with many local charities including Big Brothers/Big Sisters. Alan anchors the sound on this REO classic... Roll With The Changes - REO Speedwagon...and he kicks off this 1981 hit with the Bo Diddley beat. Don't Let Him Go - REO Speedwagon
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Post by 1finemrg on Nov 10, 2016 5:35:20 GMT -5
November 10: ... Dave Loggins. He is the second cousin of Kenny and a successful country songwriter in his own right. He wrote country chart-toppers for Juice Newton and Kenny Rogers, and made it to #1 country in a duet with Ann Murray in 1985 (Nobody Loves Me Like You Do). In 1995, he was inducted into the Nashville Songwriters Hall Of Fame. If you enjoy viewing golf, the theme music that is played during The Masters tournament broadcasts was composed by Dave. Augusta - Dave LogginsDave Hot 100 success consisted of two entries. "Someday" peaked at #57, but he wrote and sang this 1974 #5 smash that is somewhat reminiscent of his second cousin. Please Come To Boston - Dave LogginsHe had made an impact on the Hot 100 writing a song that Three Dog Night took to #19 early in 1973. Dave's re-recorded version made the AC chart in 1979. The original version is from his debut album "Personal Belongings". Pieces Of April - Dave LogginsNovember 10: ...Greg Lake. The bassist, lead singer and main producer for Emerson, Lake and Palmer first made his mark as an original member of King Crimson. In the 80s, he briefly joined Asia and was also in the reunited Emerson, Lake and Powell. As a solo artist, he reached the Hot 100 in the US with the seasonal "I Believe In Father Christmas" which peaked at #2 in the UK. He also recorded a couple of albums with Thin Lizzy's ex-guitarist Gary Moore in the early 80s. His latest effort "Ride The Tiger" was recorded with Geoff Downes (Buggles, Yes, Asia), and was released earlier this year. He takes the lead vocals on this prog-rock classic that reached #80 in 1970. In The Court Of The Crimson King - King CrimsonGreg wrote this Emerson, Lake and Palmer single release from their debut album when he was 12. It charted twice reaching #48 in 1971 and #51 in 1973 Lucky Man - Emerson, Lake and Palmer
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Post by 1finemrg on Nov 11, 2016 6:39:50 GMT -5
November 11: ... Chris Dreja. From Eric Clapton to Jeff Beck to Jimmy Page, Chris was the "other" guitarist in the Yardbirds. Playing rhythm and bass, he was a member during the band's initial run. Former band mate Jimmy Page offered Chris the position of bassist in what would become Led Zeppelin. Chris declined opting to pursue a photography career. One of his first works was the back cover of Led Zeppelin's debut album. Chris was a member of the Yardbirds spin-off band Box Of Frogs during the 80s. He would join the reformed Yardbirds in 1992, and remain a member until health issues forced his retirement in 2013. Ironically, he was replaced by Top Topham with whom he played in the pre-Yardbirds group the Metropolitan Blues Quartet. Chris had a hand writing this Yardbirds classic. Over Under Sideways Down - YardbirdsThe Yardbirds did the original of this oft-covered classic, the "B" side to "Shapes Of Things". You're A Better Man Than I - YardbirdsA huge debt of gratitude to those who served our country. Your sacrifices are remembered on this Veterans Day. November 11: ...Jim Peterik. While at Morton West High School in Berwyn, Illinois, Jim was recruited by Larry Millas and Bob Bergland to form a band. Drummer Mike Borch soon joined and the band named themselves the Shon-Dells after Troy Shondell who had a string of hits in the early 60s. They began playing high school sock hops, local teen clubs, and other social gatherings. A single "Like It Or Lump It" was pressed and the band sold several hundred copies at their events. The national popularity of Tommy James and his band the Shondells forced a name change. Bob Bergland was studying Shakespeare's Julius Caesar in high school, and after much deliberation suggested the name Ides Of March. They earned a contract with Parrot Records and reached the Top 10 locally and #42 nationally with their first single for the label "You Wouldn't Listen". The follow-up "Roller Coaster" charted briefly on the Hot 100, and made the Top 20 on the Chicago surveys. Three more non-charting singles followed. The band signed with Tower records and released a one off single which also failed to chart. In the late 60s, the band added a brass section and signed with Warner Brothers. Their initial single "One Woman Man" failed to chart, but the label thought they had a sure-fire hit with the last of four songs submitted on their demo tape. Jim had written the song out of frustration with a personal relationship and an anti-drug pamphlet he received. The result was "Vehicle" and the single at that time was the fastest selling song in the label's history. It quickly zoomed up the charts and peaked at #2 behind the Guess Who's "American Woman". PS. The personal relationship worked out. Jim and his wife Karen have been married over 40 years. The "Vehicle" album was released and was quite successful, peaking at #55 on the charts. The band wanted to release another track "Aire Of Good Feeling" as the follow up, but Warner Brothers insisted on a sound alike song. Jim came up with "Superman" and the song quickly ascended the charts nationally. In three weeks it was already in the mid-60s with a bullet. It was a different story locally. Legendary radio personality Larry Lujack one afternoon on his featured "Clunk Letter Of The Day" began to play the song, then cut it off midstream. He proceeded to trash the record, commenting that he had heard this c r a p before. Without local support, a great song died a quick death peaking at #64 nationally but never charting locally. They returned to the charts the following year, changing to a more acoustic sound. Jim's "L.A. Goodbye" peaked at #73 nationally, but reached the top 10 locally. The Ides recorded another album "Common Bond" before switching labels to RCA. Their two subsequent albums "World Woven" and "Midnight Oil" failed to chart. After performing one final concert at their high school alma mater, the band initially broke up in 1973. Jim appeared on Chase's final album "Pure Music" before Bill Chase's tragic death in an airplane crash. He released a solo album "Don't Fight The Feeling" in the mid-70s then hooked up with some local musicians to form Survivor. Their self-titled debut (featuring a very fetching Kim Basinger on the cover) spun off the Hot 100 single "Somewhere In America". The next album "Premonition" yielded their first Top 40 single "Poor Man's Son". By then Jim and band member Frankie Sullivan had formed a great songwriting team. The "Premonition" album caught the attention of Sylvester Stallone who asked them to write a song for the upcoming Rocky III movie. "Eye Of The Tiger" topped the charts and began a string of rockers and ballad hits for the band throughout the 80s. The band broke up and reformed a couple of times during the late 80s and early 90s, before Jim left the band permanently in the mid-90s. While with Survivor, Jim collaborated with others writing songs with Sammy Hagar and most notably 38 Special. He co-wrote several of their tunes including "Hold On Loosely" and the Top 10 hit "Caught Up In You". The Ides of March reformed in 1990 and has performed together ever since. It still features the four original members Jim, Larry, Bob, and Mike. Their new songs are as memorable as their old ones. We celebrate Jim's birthday with a live version of their #2 hit. Vehicle - Ides Of MarchThis is a great song Jim wrote and sang on Chase's "Pure Music" album. Run Back To Mama - ChaseThe second Survivor single, though it only bubbled under is a classic. Featuring vocals by Dave Bickler, co-written by Jim. Rebel Girl - SurvivorA live performance of the Ides of March latest release. Last Band Standing - Ides Of March
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Post by 1finemrg on Nov 12, 2016 7:13:55 GMT -5
November 12: ... Errol Brown. Errol Brown was the front man for Hot Chocolate, a band who reached the Top 40 in the US 5 times. Three of those singles peaked in the Top 10. In the UK, the group reached the Top 10 fourteen times. "You Sexy Thing" would peak in the Top 10 in the 70s, 80s, and 90s. In the late 60s, the band had recorded a reggae version of John Lennon's "Give Peace A Chance". When told they would have to ask permission from Lennon to release the song commercially, the submitted it to him. He loved the version and the band was signed as the Hot Chocolate Band. Unfortunately, the single did not chart and the band's tenure at Apple was short-lived. Brown and bassist Tony Wilson began writing their own material. With the help of producer Mickie Most they began to chart regularly in the UK, and broke through in the US in 1974. "Emma" would peak at #3 in the UK and reach #8 on the Hot 100. They were the only group to have a hit on the UK charts every year during the seventies, and would stretch that streak until 1984. Ironically, their only UK #1 single "You Win Again" (#31 US) was not written partially by Errol, but Russ Ballard. Errol went on hiatus from the band in 1985. He never returned, opting for a moderately successful solo career in the UK. He would be named a Member of the Order of the British Empire in 2003 and received the Ivor Novello Award for his musical contributions in 2004. Errol succumbed to liver cancer May 6, 2015. His legacy in the US is not only from the 5 Top 40 singles the band achieved, but UK hits co-written by Errol that were successfully covered and reached the Hot 100. Like this original which became a Top 40 hit for April Wine in 1972... You Could Have Been A Lady - Hot Chocolate ... and this original which would be #1 for Stories in 1973. Brother Louie - Hot ChocolateNovember 12: ...Booker T. Jones. He was the leader of Booker T. and the MGs, the legendary Stax group who had several Top 40 hits in the 60s and also served as the house band for Stax records. The majority of soul classics in the 60s and early 70s released on the Stax label and its subsidiaries were backed by Booker and his band. The band was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1992. They reached the Top 40 seven times, including this 1967 cover of a #1 Rascals hit. Their instrumental version peaked at #21. Groovin' - Booker T. and the MGs
November 12: ...Neil Young. In 1966, the legendary artist was playing in the Mynah Birds fronted by Rick James. They secured a deal with Motown, but Rick was arrested for being AWOL from the reserve. The band disbanded soon after. His legendary career includes work with Buffalo Springfield, Crazy Horse, the Stills-Young Band and Crosby, Stills and Nash. Of equal importance is his massive solo career, capped off by his #1 single "Heart Of Gold" from the chart-topping "Harvest". He is a founding member of Farm Aid, and was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a solo artist in 1995 and with Buffalo Springfield in 1997. This song appeared as the "B" side on at least 4 of his solo singles in the late 60s/early 70s. Upon hearing it, Joni Mitchell was inspired to write "The Circle Game" Sugar Mountain - Neil Young
In 2010, Booker T. Jones won a Grammy for Best Pop Instrumental Album. His "Potato Hole" release featured the Drive-By Truckers as the backing band and was accompanied by Neil Young on guitar. Potato Hole - Booker T.
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Post by 1finemrg on Nov 13, 2016 6:30:03 GMT -5
November 13: ... Bill Gibson. Bill was drumming for the bay area band Soundhole in the mid to late 70s. They were locally successful and also backed Van Morrison for a time. Members of the band were recruited by the former leader of rival band Clover to form American Express. They released a single locally then signed with Chrysalis records. Chrysalis was not crazy about the band's name due to possible copyright infringement issues. The band was renamed Huey Lewis and the News. Bill has been the band's drummer for the entire tenure of the band. They continue to tour, appearing in Scottsdale, AZ November 19. His drum roll kicks off this Top 10 hit. It was the third consecutive single by the band to peak at #6. If This Is It - Huey Lewis and the NewsBill co-wrote this #3 hit. Hip To Be Square - Huey Lewis and the NewsNovember 13: ...Timmy Thomas. If you're going to be a one-hit wonder, make it a memorable and unique one. Let the soulful and impassioned message shine through the sparse musical accompaniment. All it took was a simple organ riff and rhythm machine percussion to support the originally improvised lyrics that the artist created while performing at his own nightclub. A demo was created, but producer Steve Alaimo decided to release it that way. Good move! The song peaked at #3 on the Hot 100 in early 1973 and topped the R&B charts. Why Can't We Live Together - Timmy Thomas
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Post by 1finemrg on Nov 14, 2016 6:29:40 GMT -5
November 14: ... Stephen Bishop. After years of anonymity, Art Garfunkel recorded two of Stephen's songs for his mid-70s album "Breakaway". Through Art's sponsorship he was able to secure a recording contract, and his debut album "Careless" yielded two Top 40 hits. Though he never reached the Top 10 on the Hot 100, his composition "Separate Lives" did peak at #1 as recorded by Phil Collins and Marilyn Martin. It was also nominated for an Oscar, but lost to Lionel Richie's "Say You, Say Me" (Say what???). His Top 40 hit "It Might Be You" from "Tootsie" was also nominated for an Oscar, though it was one of his few recordings he did not write. He has acted in small roles of several motion pictures including this memorable one. Charming Guy With GuitarStephen is still recording and touring. His recent effort "Blueprint" was released earlier this year. His first Top 40 hit featured background vocals by Chaka Khan and a guitar solo from Eric Clapton. Save It For A Rainy Day - Stephen BishopThe follow-up was his highest charting hit peaking at the doorstep of the Top 10 (#11). On And On - Stephen BishopNovember 14: ...James "J.Y." Young. J.Y. joined the Chicago-based band TW4 in 1970. In 1972, the band was signed to Wooden Nickel records and decided to come up with a new name. After much deliberation, Styx was chosen. J.Y. is the only original member remaining through all incarnations of Styx. His work reflects the harder-edged side of the band and teams up well with the guitar prowess of fellow member Tommy Shaw. When the band was on hiatus, J.Y. released a series of albums. One was a collaboration with Jan Hammer "City Slicker". "Out On A Day's Pass" was a solo effort, and in 1995 "Raised By Wolves" was released under the James Young Group. Although Dennis DeYoung and Tommy Shaw were the main lead vocalists for Styx, J.Y. has contributed some memorable album tracks to the band through the years, including "Snowblind" and this track from "Grand Illusion". Miss America - StyxGreat power ballad from his "Raised By Wolves" effort. Heart's Not The Same - James Young Group
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Post by 1finemrg on Nov 15, 2016 6:18:19 GMT -5
November 15: ... Steve Fossen. In 1967, Steve formed The Army that played gigs regularly in the northeastern Seattle area. Several personnel changes resulted in the band being renamed White Heart in the late 60s. In the early 70s the band dropped the "White" and became Heart, but with the addition of Ann Wilson renamed itself Hocus Pocus. Toward the beginning of 1973, the band officially reverted back to Heart. Steve played bass on Heart's initial successful run until 1982, when he and drummer Mike Derosier left the band. Steve was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a member of Heart in 2013. Currently Steve Fossen and Mike Derosier tour the Pacific Northwest as founding members of Heart By Heart, recreating the songs that made Heart popular during the 70s and early 80s. Steve's chunky bass riff paces Heart's first Top 10 single... Magic Man - Heart...and it helps to kick off this #15 hit from 1978. Straight On - HeartNovember 15: ...Petula Clark. By the time she started charting in the US, she had been a star in the UK and France for the better part of a decade. In France, she topped the charts with "Romeo" in 1961 and "Ya Ya Twist" in 1962. In Germany, her "Monsieur" was a #1 hit. In Italy, it was "Sui Mio Carro (Chariot)". In 1961, she topped the UK charts with "Sailor". She topped the US charts twice. "Downtown" reached #1 in 1964, and "My Love" was a #1 hit in 1966. She had a run of 15 consecutive Top 40 hits in the US between 1964 and 1968. In the late sixties she revived her dormant acting career. She was nominated for a Golden Globe for "Finian's Rainbow" in 1968. The movie also gave her the distinction of being her co-star Fred Astaire's last dance partner in a motion picture. In 1969, she starred in "Goodbye Mr. Chips" opposite Peter O'Toole. She was all over the television in the mid-60s, guest starring on a number of musical-variety shows and hosting a couple of her own. She also starred on the TV series "This Is Petula Clark" for a sort time on the BBC. She and her producer Tony Hatch knew how to produce finely crafted pop songs. Two of her favorites (and for good reason) were this 1966 #9 hit that topped the Easy Listening Chart... I Couldn't Live Without Your Love - Petula Clark...and this #5 hit from 1967 that also topped the Easy Listening Charts. Don't Sleep In The Subway - Petula ClarkA special "Downtown" TV moment. www.youtube.com/watch?v=fzUICBMQBNU
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Post by 1finemrg on Nov 15, 2016 23:48:12 GMT -5
November 16: ... Dan Penn. Dan cut his teeth as a regular in Rick Hall's FAME recording studios in Muscle Shoals, Alabama. His success writing the Top 10 hit "I'm Your Puppet" for James & Bobby Purify convinced him that songwriting was his calling. If that didn't do the trick, then co-writing and producing "The Letter" for the Box Tops most certainly did. Other R & B successes included the "B" side to Aretha Franklin's first Atlantic single "Do Right Woman-Do Right Man", "Sweet Inspiration" for the Sweet Inspirations, and "Dark End Of The Street" for James Carr. He also co-wrote the follow-up to "The Letter", a #2 smash. Cry Like A Baby - Box TopsThe last line of "Cry Like A Baby" was "You left the water running". Seemed like a metaphor thrown in at the fadeout of the record. Actually it was also a cross-promotion to another song co-written from the pen of Penn. Barbara Lynn and Otis Redding recorded it, but my favorite was this version. You Left The Water Running - Maurice & MacNovember 16: ...Chi Coltrane. The Racine, Wisconsin native cut her teeth playing in local Chicago nightclubs and bars. Though a one-hit wonder in the US, her career is much more enduring in Europe especially in Germany and The Netherlands. She moved to Europe in the 80s but returned to Los Angeles in the 90s. She built her own recording studio, and worked with underprivileged groups. Since 2009 she has been touring regularly in Europe. Her one hit reached #17 in 1972. Thunder And Lightning - Chi ColtraneA 2009 live recording of her follow-up single to "Thunder And Lightning" which did not chart in the US. It topped the charts in the Netherlands for several weeks. Go Like Elijah - Chi Coltrane
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Post by 1finemrg on Nov 16, 2016 22:55:07 GMT -5
November 17: ... Bob Gaudio. In 1960, Bob Gaudio and Frankie Valli shook hands and the Four Seasons was born. He was a backing vocalist and keyboardist with the group. He also co-wrote all five of the group's #1 singles (Sherry, Walk Like A Man, Big Girls Don't Cry, Rag Doll, and December, 1963 (Oh, What A Night)). He also co-wrote Frankie Valli's #2 hit "Can't Take My Eyes Off Of You" as well as "Silence Is Golden" for the Tremeloes and "The Sun Ain't Gonna Shine Anymore" for the Walker Brothers. He was also a major producer, working with the likes of Michael Jackson, Frank Sinatra, and Diana Ross. He produced six albums for Neil Diamond, including the soundtrack to "The Jazz Singer". He was also the producer on the #1 Grammy nominated single "You Don't Bring Me Flowers", the Barbra Streisand/Neil Diamond duet. Bob Gaudio was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame with the Four Seasons in 1990. A couple of other Four Seasons great singles featuring the Bob Gaudio/Bob Crewe songwriting team and Bob's keyboard work. This one peaked at #3, only beaten out by the Beatles juggernaut of "I Want To Hold Your Hand" and "She Loves You". Dawn (Go Away) - Four SeasonsThe follow up to the #1 "Rag Doll" was also a top 10 hit. Save It For Me - Four SeasonsWe go north of the border for a pair of "Light" Canadian birthdays. November 17: ... Gordon Lightfoot. His chart success in Canada began in 1962 when his "Remember Me (I'm The One)" peaked at #3. His first success in the US was as a songwriter. Marty Robbins took his "Ribbon Of Darkness" to the top of the country charts in 1965. He broke through in the US in 1970 with the #5 smash "If You Could Read My Mind", and topped the Hot 100 with "Sundown" in 1974. He has won 16 Juno awards as well as every Canadian music award imaginable. He has been nominated for 5 Grammy awards and was inducted into the Songwriters Hall Of Fame in 2012. He is planning his first UK tour in 35 years during 2016. The follow-up to "Sundown" was one of Gordon's 4 Top 10 singles, peaking at #10. Carefree Highway - Gordon Lightfoot
November 17: ...Bob McBride. In 1970, Bob joined Lighthouse as lead vocalist. He remained with the band until 1973, when he was dismissed for failure to show for a recording session. He was also dismissed in 1992, a few months after the band reunited and has begun recording and touring. In both instances, drug abuse played a major role in his dismissal and contributed to his failing health. He was battling diabetes and Hepatitis B in 1996 when he suffered head injuries during a home invasion at his parents' house. He never really recovered, passing away in 1998 from heart failure. One of his (ahem) finest moments was when he stepped up to the mike and belted out this treasure that was a #24 hit in the US, but peaked at #2 on the Canadian charts. Band member Skip Prokop hit the sweet spot when he wrote this one. One Fine Morning - Lighthouse
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Post by 1finemrg on Nov 18, 2016 6:48:31 GMT -5
November 18: ... John Parr. After achieving local success in the UK with The Silence, Bitter Sweet, and Ponders End, John worked with Meat Loaf on his mid-80s "Bad Attitude" release. The connection also led to forming a partnership with John Wolff. As tour manager of The Who, John Wolff was foreseeing the group's demise and was looking for new talent to work with. Parr had secured a publishing contract with Carlin America, and Wolff secured a recording contract for Parr with Atlantic. Parr thrived in the era of the soundtrack album, writing and performing songs for the films "Quicksilver", "Three Men And A Baby", and "The Running Man". He also had success working with Marilyn Martin, Roger Daltrey, and the aforementioned Meat Loaf. In the late 80s, he worked with Mutt Lange co-producing and album for the band Romeo's Daughter. He also was successful in the advertising field, promoting the sports leisure fashion of US clothing designer "Charms De Baron". He also co-authored the Gillette slogan "(The Best) A Man Can Get" a theme used in a series of successful commercials beginning in the 1980s. He exited the music business in the mid-90s but returned 10 years later. He has played in 80s reunion tours in recent years and appeared at London's Palladium Theater as a special guest of Foreigner earlier this year. John first US Top 40 hit peaked at #23 in 1984. It topped the Mainstream Rock chart. Naughty Naughty - John ParrHe co-wrote his chart-topper with David Foster, inspired by the attempt of Rick Hansen to circumnavigate the world in his wheelchair. It was used as the theme to the famous "Brat Pack" movie, and recently in Google's Android campaign. St Elmo's Fire (Man In Motion) - John ParrNovember 18: ... Hank Ballard. One of the early pioneers of rock and roll, Hank combined R&B with risqué, double-entendre lyrics. His series of "Annie" songs proved to be extremely popular on the R&B charts in spite of being banned by the FCC for lyrical content. With his band the Midnighters, they charted 14 Top 10 R&B singles including three that reached the top. They reached the Top 10 on the Hot 100 twice, both in 1960. "Let's Go, Let's Go, Let's Go" peaked at #6 and "Finger-Poppin' Time" reached #7. Hank was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame in 1990, and the Midnighters joined him in 2013. The first of the "Annie" songs was the biggest, topping the R&B charts for 7 weeks in 1954. Work With Me Annie - The MidnightersOriginally released as a "B" side, it was re-released as an "A" side in 1960 and peaked at #28. The song made rock and roll history when Chubby Checker's cover became the only song to top the Hot 100 during 2 separate chart runs (1960 & 1962) The Twist - Hank Ballard and the Midnighters
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Post by 1finemrg on Nov 19, 2016 7:18:49 GMT -5
November 19: ... Warren "Pete" Moore. One of the co-founders of the Miracles, Pete was the bass voice for the group. He also is a noted songwriter, collaborating with Smokey Robinson on several all time Motown Classics. The Temptations' "Since I Lost My Baby", Marvin Gaye's "I'll Be Doggone" are among his non-Miracles credits. He also co-wrote the #1 hit "Love Machine" from the Miracles post-Smokey era. He also was the vocal arranger, and producer of several of the band's hit records. In 2012, the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame righted a tremendous wrong and inducted the remaining Miracles. Smokey had been actively campaigning for their inclusion since his 1987 induction. Among the Miracles' hits Pete co-wrote was this Top 20 hit. Johnny Rivers took his version into the Top 10, and it was successfully covered by Linda Ronstadt. Tracks Of My Tears - MiraclesPete's production work is featured on this Top 10 smash. Baby, Baby Don't Cry - Smokey Robinson & the MiraclesNovember 19: ...Fred Lipsius. Fred was the original saxophonist for Blood, Sweat & Tears. He won a Grammy Award for his arrangement of "Spinning Wheel", and remained a member through their first four albums. Through the years he has toured with Simon & Garfunkel and has produced over 30 CDs of music as a leader or a sideman. He has authored a half-dozen books/CDs on jazz improvisation/reading. Some of the jazz legends he has worked with include Cannonball Adderley and Thelonious Monk. He has been a composer, producer, and arranger of many TV and radio commercials. He currently teaches at Boston's Berklee College Of Music. We salute Fred with this B, S & T hit which he also arranged. Written by Carole King and Gerry Goffin, this single from the band's third album peaked at #14 in 1970. Hi-De-Ho - Blood, Sweat & Tears
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Post by 1finemrg on Nov 19, 2016 23:00:51 GMT -5
November 20: ... Speaking of great guitarists, the legendary Duane Allman. Although the Allman Brothers ended up having a fantastic career, imagine what would have been achieved if not for the loss of Duane and Barry Oakley. Both died at 24, in motorcycle accidents about one year apart. The sites of the tragedies were a couple of blocks apart. "Skydog" has been ranked in the Top 10 greatest guitarists of the rock era. He's in the rare air of legends of Jimi Hendrix, Eric Clapton, and B. B. King who provided inspiration as a teen. Duane and Eric also collaborated on the Derek and the Dominoes sessions that yielded the band's only album "Layla And Other Assorted Love Songs". His slide guitar work was a major component in the development of Southern rock. He also did uncredited session work for cash but no recording credits, so it's hard to compile a complete list of his session work. If you have about 12 and a half minutes, his work on Boz Scaggs's "Loan Me A Dime" is a great listen. Duane's Allman Brothers discography includes the self-titled debut, "Idlewild South", and "Live At Fillmore East". He died during the recording of the "Eat A Peach" album. Featuring his session work on this great Beatles cover... Hey Jude - Wilson Pickett...a great Derek and the Dominoes track... Why Does Love Got To Be So Sad - Derek and the Dominoes...and a pair of his final recordings from "Eat A Peach". Blue Sky - Allman BrothersLittle Martha - Allman BrothersNovember 20: ...Joe Walsh.
While at Kent State University, Joe was a part of a garage-rock band called the Measles. The band recorded two songs for the Ohio Express's "Beg, Borrow, and Steal" LP, with Joe on lead vocals.
In early 1968, Joe auditioned and joined the James Gang. Just before opening for Cream in Detroit, member Ronnie Silverman dropped out of the band. The band played the show with the three remaining members and liked their sound. The James Gang became FM radio staples with tracks like "Walk Away", "Funk #49", and "Midnight Man". All three songs were also Hot 100 singles, the highest peaking being "Walk Away" which reached #51.
After the James Gang's fourth album which was a live effort, Joe left the band to form Barnstorm. After 2 albums the band broke up. Joe was unhappy with the manner in which the band was promoted by the record label. ABC promoted the band Barnstorm as a backing unit for Joe Walsh, the solo artist. The second "Barnstorm" album ended up being credited as Joe's breakout album as a solo artist.
"The Smoker You Drink, The Player You Get" was a Top 10 smash and spawned the Top 40 hit "Rocky Mountain Way". The underrated "Meadows" also charted as a Hot 100 single.
Joe continued as a solo artist, collaborating with Barnstorm member Joe Vitale. He released "So What" in 1975. It was that year that Joe turned down an offer to replace Peter Frampton in Humble Pie, electing to join the Eagles as Bernie Leadon's replacement. The double lead guitar of Joe and Don Felder proved to be a winning combination, helping to propel "Hotel California" to critical and commercial success. The album topped the charts for 8 weeks and featured two #1 singles, "New Kid In Town" and the title track.
The third single "Life In The Fast Lane" just missed the Top 10, peaking at #11. The song was built off a guitar riff of Joe's. Joe along with Joe Vitale contributed "Pretty Maids All In A Row" to the album as well.
While the Eagles were preparing the follow-up album "The Long Run", Joe released a solo album "But Seriously Folks...". It proved to be a Top 10 smash, and the single "Life's Been Good" would be his highest charting single, peaking at #12.
"The Long Run" was released in 1979 and included a re-recorded track of Joe's that was first included in the soundtrack for "The Warriors" movie. Though not a single, "In The City" was one of the more enduring tracks played on FM radio.
In 1980, Joe's "All Night Long" was included on the soundtrack of the move "Urban Cowboy". It proved to be his last top 20 single.
After the Eagles broke up in 1980, Joe released "There Goes The Neighborhood". It was a Top 20 success, and featured his last Top 40 single "A Life Of Illusion". He would release a string of moderately successful albums from this point forward, the last studio album being "Analog Man" in 2012.
He is a part of the reunited Eagles who continue to tour. They released "Long Road Out Of Eden" in 2007.
Joe has also made notable contributions as producer and guest guitarist collaborating with other artists. He produced and played guitar on Dan Fogelberg's "Souvenirs" album, including the Top 40 hit "Part Of The Plan". He also performed in the same roles on Jay Ferguson's "Thunder Island" album and Top 10 single.
We salute this Rock and Roll Hall of Famer (with the Eagles) featuring several selections.
With the James Gang... The Bomber - James Gang
...solo from "So What"...
Welcome To The Club - Joe Walsh
...as an Eagles member...
In The City - Eagles
...and a great guest appearance on guitar.
Split Decision - Steve Winwood
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Post by 1finemrg on Nov 21, 2016 6:38:09 GMT -5
November 21: ... David Porter. David is one of the most gifted music composers of all time with over 1,700 songwriting credits. The songs he has written or co-written cover the musical spectrum of the rock and roll genre and a wide variety of artists from Aretha Franklin and Otis Redding to Ted Nugent and Eminem. Some of his best known work was with Stax records and his partnership with Isaac Hayes. Together they penned the majority of the hits for Sam & Dave, and were inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2005. Note: The "Dave" in the duo of Sam and Dave is Dave Prater. David Porter had a minor career as a recording artist releasing several singles during the early 70s. With Isaac Hayes, David penned "Hold On, I'm Comin'" and these 2 Top 10 singles. Soul Man - Sam & DaveI Thank You - Sam & DaveNovember 21: ...Malcolm Rebennack. Malcolm has been known as the Night Tripper and Zu Zu Man through the years. He's a 6 time Grammy award winner and entered the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2011. Leaving high school, "Mac" became a producer at Ace Records and gigged locally including a stint as Mac Rebennack and the Skyliners. Unfortunately, he was also involved in other activities such as narcotics and running a brothel. In the early 60s he spent time in federal prison on drug charges. Upon his release, he relocated to Los Angeles and became part of the Wrecking Crew, backing Sonny & Cher, Frank Zappa, and Canned Heat among many others. He also began developing his own persona and career, incorporating his New Orleans roots into his stage show and recordings. Following his critically acclaimed debut album "Gris Gris" in 1968, he began to tour extensively and developed a cult following. The next three years saw an album release each year. In 1969 there was "Babylon" followed by "Remedies. 1971 saw the release of "The Sun, Moon, and Herbs". For that album, guest performers included Eric Clapton and Mick Jagger. Commercial success followed in 1973. Featuring backup by the Meters (Cissy Strut) and production work from the recently-departed Allen Toussaint, Malcolm reached the Top 10 with his second of four Hot 100 releases. Since then the piano-playing artist continues to release his unique style of music, the most recent being "Ske-Dat-De-Dat: The Spirit of Satch" a 2014 tribute to Louis Armstrong. He also has continued his session work, backing Carly Simon and James Taylor on their Top 10 cover of "Mockingbird". He also has worked with Carly Simon (solo), Maria Muldaur, Rickie Lee Jones, Levon Helm, and Van Morrison among many others. To find Malcolm's name on his recordings you would have to look at the songwriting credits. As for the artist name, the good doctor is in. Right Place, Wrong Time - Dr. JohnHe loaned his support to Leon Redbone's 1990 "Christmas Island" release on this holiday standard. Frosty The Snowman - Leon Redbone with Dr. John
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