Weekly Update – 07/30/2010

Lady Antebellum at the Beacon Theater on Tues. Sept. 28. Tickets on sale this morning at 10:00 a.m. $45 – $59.50.

Amos Lee at the Hiro Ballroom on Tues. Sept. 28. Tickets on sale this morning at 10:00 a.m. $30 – $35.

K’naan at Webster Hall on Sat. Rocktober 9. Tickets on sale today at noon. $25 ($30 day of show)

Jimmy Eat World at Terminal 5 on Thurs. Rocktober 14. Tickets on sale today at noon. $32.

Michael Franti & Spearhead at Terminal 5 on Thurs. Rocktober 28 and at Wellmont Theater on Fri. Rocktober 29. Tickets on sale today at noon. Terminal: $35 ($40 day of show); Wellmont: $30 ($35 day of show).

Big Head Todd & The Monsters at the Nokia Theater on Fri. Sept. 24. Pre-sale tickets available now until 10:00 a.m. this morning if you are a American Express cardholder. General public tickets on sale today at noon. $29.50.

Trey Songz with Monica at the Beacon Theater on Sept. 17. Tickets on sale this morning at 9:00 a.m. $55 – $75.

Bullet for My Valentine at Roseland Ballroom on Fri. Rocktober 1. Tickets on sale this morning at 10:00 a.m. $26.

Other items:

Thoughts and prayers go out to the family and friends of Mr. Al Goodman who unfortunately passed away on July 26 at the age of 67 after his heart failed during a surgery. He was part of the R&B band-“The Moments”- who had the monster hit-“Love on a Two Way Street”- what a fantastic song. The Moments turned into Ray, Goodman and Brown and their other monster song was –“Special Lady”. Rest in peace Al.

One and Out: Ellen DeGeneres is leaving American Idol after one season because of her busy schedule. She said it was also hard for her to judge and sometimes hurt the contestant’s feelings. She wants to go back to being a fan of the show. She wasn’t that great but she wasn’t that bad. This just in: Kara was fired and they are bringing aboard Jennifer Lopez and Steven Tyler to sit along side Randy Jackson. Wow, should be interesting.

Vince Neil was arrested this past Wednesday night in Las Vegas for suspicion of driving under the influence. Man this is a tough one to figure out, he just released a solo album, he’s touring with his band and then is set to kick off the Ozzfest tour with Motley Crue on Aug. 14. At some point, reality has to set in and he has to make the decision to go sober and enjoy the fruits of his labor. You’d think by now he would know not to get behind the wheel-with all the cash he has-someone could have picked him up.

Linkin’ Park will release their first single-“The Catalyst”- this coming Monday Aug. 2 off of their Sept. 14 release of-“A Thousand Suns” but you can get a 30 second preview of it right here- http://kroq.radio.com/2010/07/27/exclusive-first-listen-linkin-parks-single-the-catalyst-from-forthcoming-album/ – the song will be used for the game –“Medal of Honor Tier 1.”

Godsmack frontman- Sully Erna- will release his solo album-“Avalon”- on Sept. 14. The first single-“Sinner’s Prayer” will be delivered to radio stations next week. I find it a bit odd that his solo album will be launched so close to Godsmack’s fifth studio album-“The Oracle”-which just came out a few months ago. That album rocks!!! \m/ \m/

The Cult will release a new single-“Everymand and Woman is a Star”- exclusively through I-Tunes and is part of a four song package that will be released in the fall. I believe you can look for the new single this coming Tuesday.

Tom Jones has released a gospel album-“Praise and Blame”- and listening to the 30 second samples on I-Tunes, I’d have to say this is a winner. Check out the cover of the John Lee Hooker-“Burning Hell”-and tell me this doesn’t rock and blues out? Totally rad!! Or check out the most excellent-“Did Trouble Me”- a total knockout of a song. This is a must buy!!!

One of my favorite bands-Little Big Town– just released a new single-“The Reason Why”- and I defy you to find me a better harmonizing vocal band out there today. This band is second to none in that department. It seems like everything they record is a hit.

Album Review: “Midnight Souvenirs” by Peter Wolf released on April 6, 2010

Every once in a while there is an album that gets some very good press, then there is the “buzz” and when it is released there are positive reviews all over the place but something holds me back from taking the plunge. So this is exactly what happened to me with this album-“Midnight Souvenirs”- by Peter Wolf (most know him as the lead singer of the J. Geils Band). I had read so many good things about this album but as time went by, it kind of slipped my mind but then just last month it hit me that I have not done too many “new” album reviews over the past year or so and that is when I decided to just blindly buy this album to see for myself. I am here to tell you folks that I am glad that I made this decision and if you are looking for an album that can be played at your next dinner party or house get together, look no further than this seasoned veteran as he has pulled out all the stops by producing of fusion of R&B, blues, country, rock and of course that “funky” seasoning which spices up this delicacy of accomplished adult music. I will use the old adage-“just like fine wine, Peter gets better with age.” This album is a breath of fresh air that has been let into that musty room of that similar sound that seems to have permeated the air waves which has been dominated by pop and rap. I am not saying that those genres are not good-just that it seems to be a bit overcrowded-and here comes Peter with this brand of American “grown-up” rock & roll where the musicians are crisp and the help he gets from Shelby Lynne, Neko Case and Mr. Merle Haggard on vocals has created some of the best duets in the past few years. I’m pretty sure by the end of this year, this album will land in my top five of 2010.

The disc starts off with a duet with Shelby Lynne and right off the bat you can feel that certain “vibe” that Peter seems to spread in his words and music. He exudes pure confidence in his style while seeming doing it with very little effort, it comes naturally. I can picture sitting out in front of any restaurant in New York City and having this song piped outside for all the patrons to enjoy. Ms. Lynne’s higher octave vocals are the perfect complement to Peter’s voice and when they sing in harmony, it is very enjoyable. This entire album would be perfect to see at BB Kings where one could enjoy a nice dinner with some awesome music. “Tragedy” is a finger snapping and hand clapping song with a flavor of that old R&B sound complete with the many women supplying the background vocals toward the end of the tune. “I Don’t Wanna Know” picks up the pace a bit but nothing too heavy as the key word throughout this album is –“enjoyable”-this kind of reminds me of something that John Mellencamp would have done back in the 1980’s. It has that “Pink Houses” feel to it, albeit with a much faster pace but you’ll be strumming the acoustic air-guitar in no time. I can picture people getting out of their seats at BB’s and start dancing all around the place-and just like that the song is over. (I bet at a live show there would be a long jam to keep the feet moving). Then the flow really grooves with the eccentric –“Watch Her Move”- and you will feel like you are in a smoky club room and as you make your way to get a good spot on the dance floor you come across that woman who just seems to be floating a la Michael Jackson moon walk style. The infectious beat will make you get up and dance like you are by yourself in a room (like I am doing right now) meanwhile it is a crowded place. Just like that-“three-for-three” out of the box. “There’s Still Time” will conjure up memories of “the Band” as the pace slows down a bit but not the “feel good” part because before long you will learn the words to this song and this will become one of your favorites to sing along to. As the song approaches the bridge, the blues kick in and makes it that more pleasing to the ear and then the tempo really slows down as I can picture laying down on a grassy hill on a nice summer day looking up to the pure blue sky as you ask-“can it get any better than this?” Like Peter says-“there’s still time” to chase your dreams-What are you waiting for? Track # 5- “Lying Low” really reminds me of a song that Bruce Springsteen did on his “We Shall Overcome” album because I feel like I could sit around a campfire and sing this song with a whole bunch of friends. The musicianship is excellent as the banjo “hits the spot” and it sounds like the bass is one of those “old school” bass where it stands upright with the pointer being like a really good umbrella. Very cool song. “The Green Fields of Summer” is an absolute stunner of a song and I especially love the lyrics because I get older I love summer more and more while actually hoping that “winter never comes.” This song depicts those summer days you have had-either as a kid or maybe recently-where you never want the day to end-c’mon you know you have had those where you are having the time of your life and it could be something simple like being at a beach or having a pool party where the day is so spectacular that you don’t want it to come to its final destination. I know I have had many of those days in the summer, isn’t the summertime just the best time? Like I said, as I get older I really enjoy the summer days and nights. “Thick as Thieves” is a real “old school” blues sounding song which has some “giddy-up” to it. Larry Campbell is the guitarist and he has some righteous licks throughout, this is a tasty dish complete with some really nice drum work.

Track # 8-“Always Asking for You”- is my favorite song on the disc. (When I listened to the album the first time, I just threw it into the car and did not follow the liner notes, etc. I just listened and when this song came on I looked down and saw this was track # 8). This is a beautiful song and the women who supply the background vocals make it that much better. This is mildly surprising for me because sometimes when I think of Peter, I think of “Centerfold” when he was with J. Geils Band and this is a completely different sound-obviously much more mature. It makes me drift off and kind of makes me think of my mom because I know I’m always asking for her. Perfect sing along song. “Then It Leaves Us All Behind” is another poignant track which reminds me of something that Bob Dylan might do. It is a soft and heartfelt track and could be Peter’s best vocal performance on the disc and the keyboards add a very nice touch while the string arrangement is stellar. “Overnight Lows” will remind you of that old funky style that Peter employed back in the day and it really sounds like classic R&B-something like Al Green would do. He does that “fast talk/singing” which made him famous, especially with the live version of “Musta got Lost”-remember that song which is always played on the classic rock format. Peter does his best Barry White jam here folks, you will think you are back in the 1970’s. “Everything I Do (Gonna Be Funky)” is a remake of the classic by Allen Toussaint and you know its funky if the word funky appears in the title, right? This is some good down home cooking right here complete with the Billy Preston sounding like keyboard work. You will be bopping and weaving while snapping your fingers. ‘Don’t Try to Change Her” has a country flavor to it and I can picture being in one of those country clubs with hay on the ground (Ok yes a barn) and dancing with that someone special. Peter plays a nice harmonica on this track and he sings this song with heart and soul and when one does that you know the result is always good. Track # 13-“The Night Comes Down”- starts off like “You’ll Accompany Me” by Bob Seger but then the pace picks up a bit and again it turns into a finger snapping, hand clapping fun song. The more I listen to it, I could picture Mr. Seger helping him out on this one at one of his shows. It gets kind of loud toward the end of the song and probably is the “heaviest” on your ears at that point. The last track is “It’s Too Late for Me” and this is my second favorite track on the album. It is a duet with Merle Haggard and I have to be honest before I heard this song I didn’t get the pairing but learned my lesson that you can’t be quick to judge until you listen to it. This is a show stopper of a song and is done with class, grace and passion that can’t be matched. I have to listen to this beautiful heart-felt song again as I am completely stunned on how great this tune is-Mr. Haggard is a knock out and Mr. Wolf is spectacular as well. This will bring down the house where ever they decide to perform this, I just hope I’m there when it happens.

“Midnight Souvenirs” is a souvenir to savor at any time of the day or night. Peter Wolf has redefined himself with this stunning body of work. There is not a bad track on the entire disc and it would behoove you to run to your computer to purchase from I-Tunes or wherever you purchase your CD’s. I actually have the CD with the cover, liner notes and all. This album has lived up to the hype that was set forth when it came out just a few months ago, so become one of the people “in the know” as this is an excellent album which probably doesn’t have the “popularity” of all the other stuff that is out there today but as we all know-sometimes we find our own little treasures in the most unsuspecting places-this is one of them!!

“NUGGETS”:

 

Ok for some time now I have been stuck with trying to figure a way to highlight some albums that I really love but they either have some “fillers” (in my opinion) that have cause it not be a “perfect album side” or I could not review the entire album because my heart wouldn’t be in the right spot because there are probably more than a few songs that I skip over-so I how do I “recommend” an entire body of work if I don’t even listen to every song? My apologies to the artist who will make this list if they are offended but I figured I would get your name out there and who knows it may make me go out and explore their entire library of work and find that perfect album side and/or great albums. In some instances I have the entire album-(“pre-I-Tunes”) or since the invention of I-Tunes I have purchased “nuggets” from some of these albums. And then it hit me, maybe I could present material from the album as “nuggets” of information so that you can decide on whether to take the plunge and buy the whole CD or buy just the songs I am pointing out. Now for the most part I have always been on the side of the fence that encourages to buy the entire disc but it’s obvious that I have bought “singles” from I-Tunes-something I never thought I would do and there is a part of me that is still bothered by this but then I figured an artist would rather have some songs bought by the general public as opposed to not buying their full body of work for that particular album at all. And then it hit me while I was listening to my I-Pod “shuffle” and the great song-“Everybody Knows” by the Dixie Chicks came on and I immediately thought of the word-“nugget”- and thought I would present some songs from their very popular album-“Taking the Long Way.” This album was released on May 26, 2006 and I honestly like all the songs but sometimes have to be in the mood to listen to the entire album but without a doubt these are some of the best songs on the albums- So out of the 13 tracks I am having a side dish of nuggets and here they are in no particular order:

“Stepping Out” – Wow what a perfect song. This is a wonderful song to sing-along to and I absolutely love Natalie Maines vocals as you will drift off into “never never land” as you wonder how these artists create these types of songs. Love the chorus-“stepping out everyone can see my face…all the things I can’t erase from my life…everybody knows…” This is “comfort” music as it will make you feel good inside, it gives you the nice warm feeling. These ladies can sing.

“Lubbock or Leave It” – This song has the most “giddy-up” to it and I’m telling you to grab a pair of headphones (Bose if you can splurge on yourself) and squeeze your hands into your ears and listen to this track. It will blow you away as you will not believe that this is the Dixie Chicks rocking out to country music and when the “bango sounding like” guitar solo marches in, well I have to put the volume even higher. They had a lot of help with this entire album and the musicianship is stellar throughout. This is actually country head-banging at its best. Put this song on your next Spin class CD and see how fast your legs will have to move to keep up with this pace. This deserves a \m/ \m/!!!

“Favorite Year” – Natalie’s vocals actually put me in a trance with this tune as I drift away. This is an exquisite song and the background vocal that trails Natalie is so perfect as you can see why this album received all the accolades because they truly deserve it. This is a wonderful song that will make you want to play acoustic guitar and take up singing lessons, where do I sign up because this is an unbelievable tune-pure perfection.

“Voice Inside My Head” – Another brilliant effort which again displays the awesome singing talents of Natalie. After going through what they went through, to make an album with great songs like these must have took a lot out of them and I can understand why Natalie still wants some time away. Songs like these should be able to hold us over until she decides to make some more music. Folks this is great stuff right here and I would put it up with any genre during the decade of 2000 and make the argument that they made some of the best songs during the entire 10 years just from this album alone.

“Not Ready to Make Nice” – This song is totally written from the heart and you can feel the pain and passion in Natalie’s voice. The lyrics that always amaze me are –“it’s a sad, sad story when a mother will teach her daughter that she ought to hate a total stranger” and then-“that they’d write me a letter telling me that I better shut up and sing or my life will be over”-can you imagine that these women went through this all because of their opinion? I usually don’t move when I hear this song-it hits you right over the head with its starkness-“I’m through with doubt, nothing left for me to figure…and I’ll keep paying…” People who suffer get advice from other people and sometimes they say time will help and heal but in some cases that may not be true. This is a majestic song and something that will live on in my heart forever. I well up with tears to think of the pain they suffered and wonder why and how people in this world can be so cruel sometimes.

“So Hard” – If I had to pick my favorite song from the album this would have to be it. I wish I could morph into Natalie and perform this song live. I can’t believe how great this song is, totally amazing. I would have loved to be in the recording studio when they completed this song, there had to be “high fives” and “back slaps” all over the place. “It’s so hard when it doesn’t come easy…it’s so hard…” When Natalie hits those high notes toward the end of the song it makes the tune that much better.

“TOP TEN”:

Over the past few weeks while listening to my I-Pod shuffle, my library of Guns & Roses songs seemingly kept creeping into the playlist no matter how many times I hit the “shuffle song” button so I figured it was a sign to put down my top ten songs by them. (By the way this list will not include any songs from “Chinese Democracy” as this is really Axl Rose as opposed to Guns & Roses). Now I have had a love-hate relationship with this band for some time. I sung their praises to everyone within ear shot of my voice from the golden years of 1987 – 1990-I could have been their publicist, spokesperson, “freak of a fan” or whatever label you want to lay on me despite the fact that during those years every time I went to see them in concert Axl pulled one of his temper tantrums and did not emerge to the stage in many cases for well over two hours than what was expected. Looking back in retrospect, maybe they should have followed the Beatles mantra of not touring after a certain time (like a month after “Appetite” was released) and just met each other in the recording studio to record, maybe they’d still be together (Ok I know- “wishful thinking”).

After taking the path of the band –“Boston”- where they took forever to put out an album after “Appetite”-(not including “Lies”) time just seemed to disappear which made them “less relevant”- I guess. Add to this the fact that Axl just couldn’t get his stuff together and the huge riot that ensued after he walked off the stage in Canada after Metallica had to stop their set to attend to Mr. Hetfield-who was almost burned alive- was the “straw that broke the camel’s back” in my mind because I became so disenchanted that I walked away from this band. (And I didn’t think “Use Your Illusion I or II” was that great…but not that bad either). So you see the dichotomy here? I absolutely loved this band but over time I started to dislike the fact that they could never seem to get on the same page (and I won’t blame it all on Axl-as the others had some issues of their own- but I do think he was a big part) so I moved on and will always have “Appetite,” “Lies” and parts of “Illusion” that I can go back to and think of the positives-these guys were flat out the hungriest band I think to ever come out and it showed in their energy, “rawness” and flat out ability to “light up the sky” with their songs. They defined rock and roll to its essence when they first hit the scene and one can never take away “Appetite” for them as it is arguably the greatest debut album in the history of music (in any genre). So here they are-my favorite top ten songs from the often dysfunctional but legendary band called Guns & Roses: (By the way-“Welcome to the Jungle”-which could arguably be the best song ever-will not be on my list and that is due to the life threatening experience I had when I went up to New England to watch my beloved NY Jets play against the Patriots in a playoff game during Mangini’s first season as coach as it was the most hostile environment I ever experienced and every five minutes the stereo system in the stadium played the opening licks to “Jungle” and this forever tainted my love of this song. Sorry folks I recognize and respect this song but if I’m on an island and had to listen to just 10 songs, this song can not be on my list because of that experience):

10.     Dead Horse– “Sick of this life…not that you care..” That’s the way the song starts off and maybe a strong clue for what was to come- the beginning of the end. The track starts off acoustically and it sounds nice enough but then it kicks in and that driving hard rock that so defined them shines through and to me is one of the bright spots on “Illusion I.” Slash’s guitar solo is on the money. This is a hard rock head-banging song that always makes me wonder why they couldn’t make more songs like this on Illusion but it is what it is. The acoustic part makes it way back at the end of the song again with the lyrics-“…sick of this life…not that you care…”

9.     Move to the City – Again this is when Guns & Roses were Guns & Roses. They could rock out with the best of them and for this song you can hear that blues shine through as I would throw this song up against any pure rock and roll song. This is totally different from most of their songs and maybe because Izzy probably wrote it but if you haven’t heard this song in a while, go back and listen to what I am trying to tell you. This is almost like the Rolling Stones if they came out in the late 1980’s instead of the 1960’s. It even has a horn section, c’mon a horn section for G&R in 1988? I love this tune!!!

8.     You’re Crazy (from “Lies”) – I remember the first time I heard the acoustic version of this song from the EP-“Lies”- and instantly I knew that I liked this version better than the electric version that appears on “Appetite.” In my opinion, this is when Guns were at the top of their game-they had released “Appetite” which exploded them on to the scene (like none that I had ever seen before or since-yes not even Nirvana) and quickly put out this gem of work that included some live tunes as well as some awesome acoustic tunes. If only they didn’t grow so big, so fast-I think there would have been more songs like this. Of course it contains some “F-bombs” so you may want to not play it around the kiddies.

7.     Patience – The moment I hear the opening whistle to this song it always takes me back to the weekend where I, Johnny-Boy and Slats went camping at North Lake in Upstate New York. I had the cassette and Johnny kept playing this song the entire weekend and it drove Slats crazy. He threaten Johnny with violence if he played it again. “Said woman take it slow…all we need is just a little patience.” Love the acoustic guitar work done by the boys as this has to sit high above their catalog as one of their most recognized songs ever recorded.

6.     Don’t Cry – I know most fans are probably sticking their fingers down their throat on this pick but there has always been something about this song that I love- I think it has to be the melody. This was also our first introduction to Shannon Hoon as he provided the background vocals on this track and it was cool to see him in the video. Guns had the perfect outlet with MTV because when they were big – MTV was “MTV” and their videos were played endlessly. “Talk to me softly, there’s something in your eye…don’t hang your head in sorrow and please don’t cry…” Sappy?? Ok yes…but good???- yes!! I know Axl was trying to create these big “theatrical” songs which didn’t mesh well with the other mates as they also wanted to rock out but looking back if he didn’t try so hard to make everything a big production, I think there would have been more songs like this one which came in under the five minute mark but didn’t incorporate as much that “over-the-top” production of say a song like “Estranged” did and it does have some nice guitar work by Slash.

5.     Mr. Brownstone – It sounds like Adler is playing in a silo when the song kicks off, doesn’t it? How raunchy is this track? It feels dirty right? But that is what I think makes the song so great-they had this way of making it cool to like the crazy lyrics, ear splitting guitar riffs and the pounding of the drums-again almost like they are in an alley where there are garbage cans (you know the “old school” ones with the silver tops that you crunched down to get all that city garbage in?) and he is drumming away on top of those cans. Of course there are the explicit lyrics-so hold your ears as the big one is used. The groove in this song is so infectious and even though this is hard rock it makes me want to get up and dance (think Joe Piscopo doing Axl on Saturday Night Live) around in circles. Excuse me while I retrieve my red and white handkerchief so that I may wrap it around my head. “Yow-Zaaa!!!”

4.     Nightrain– How raw is this song? Slash’s guitar work is nothing short of spectacular. Every time I hear this song I get so pumped up I really feel “loaded like a freight train.” Steven Adler’s drumming is so phenomenal, it sounds like he set up his drum set in a grimy alley way and he just put on the burners. Axl had two voices back then- the high pitched squeals as well as that super cool raspy voice-almost “Louie Armstrong like”- albeit singing some hard rock songs. Folks I’m telling you right now when “Appetite” hit there was nothing like it. Songs like this were not being made by anyone out there-it wasn’t metal but it wasn’t that classic rock-this was raw, pissed off rock and roll (no not punk either) with an energy that never seemed to quit.

3.    You Could Be Mine – I thought this was their “gem” between the two album historic release of “Illusion I & II.” The song is filled with high voltage and energy that “Appetite” displayed and the musicianship is super tight. Matt Sorum is all over the place on the drums and Slash is well… just Slash-always super solid. “…cause I think we’ve seen that movie too…cause you could be my-ine…” Axl’s vocals are so high pitched (I could maybe see Jack White singing this song) but it fits so perfectly, especially with holding those “whhhhyyy’s…”- I love it. Then the part where he rages on-“don’t forget to call my lawyers with ridiculous demands…”- I get out of breath just listening to him-this is classic head-banging material.. And of course love the way he ends with “Yeeeaaahhh” as the Terminator slowly walks away from Axl-very cool video as well. Sorry did I mention how freaking phenomenal Slash is on guitar on this song?

2.     Sweet Child O’ Mine – I can remember playing outfield for our Sunset Park team in Brooklyn N.Y.- “All-Out” (taking ‘All’ from Allstars and ‘Out’ from Outlaws) back in 1987 and constantly singing this song that I didn’t know who performed it (at that time but quickly came up to speed) or didn’t know all the words but I kept coming back to “…where do we go now? Where do we go?…” I’d be in the outfield singing over and over-“Where do we go now?” Of course I was the only one on the team back then that cared about music-they knew I was the “rocker” and I was into something new every other week, so to them they wouldn’t know Guns & Roses from L.A. Guns. (Or cared for that matter). I kept trying to implore them to listen to the song and the entire album but again to no avail, it didn’t matter to me anyway-I knew there was this tidal wave called Guns & Roses and I waited there with the surf board to ride the wave of euphoria they brought between the years of 1987 – 1990. It amazes me how this song is now considered “classic” rock but I guess it has to be considered classic because it instantly became one of the best songs ever recorded in rock and roll history.

1.     Paradise City – I love this song from top to bottom, love every second of this six minute and forty-six second song. It’s hard to find a song that gets me more psyched up than this bad boy. I am doing the “Wayne’s World- We are not worthy bow” right now as the arrangement of this tune has to rank up there as one of the best in the genre called “hard rock.” Axl digs deep down to sing this masterpiece and when I hear Steven on the drums I always wonder-“what if?” Man he owned this album-didn’t he? The greatest thing is that I did get to see this song performed when they were at the height of their career and have to say it was a mind numbing experience (in a good way!!). I will again always remember Chris using this song to torture us into getting into shape in his fantastic spin class. When the pace picks up I lose it even more- I am spinning and dancing around in a circle of my living room making believe I am up on stage playing in front of 40,000 maniacs. This is one of the greatest songs ever made, I don’t want it to end. Can it be almost seven minutes already? How friggin’ unbelievable is Slash on the guitar-could be the best song he has ever recorded. “Baby!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!”

Trivia Questions

Answers from last week:

1.     Edie Brickell

2.     “Tighter and Tighter”- Alive and Kickin’

3.     “Spirit in the Sky”- Norman Greenbaum

4.     The Knack- “My Sharona”

This week’s trivia (Random)-

1.     I was the lead singer for one of the biggest band during the 1980’s but an unfortunate health situation caused problems with my singing voice. I am still touring on my own these days playing lots of songs I help compose with that band and of course my solo stuff. Who am I?

2.     I am one of the world’s greatest R&B singers of all time and one of my quirks is that I don’t like air-conditioning in the venues that I play. Who am I?

3.     I am known as the “Father of Rock and Roll” and countless bands-both from England and America- have stated that I was the reason they wanted to play rock and roll music. Who am I?

4.     I promised Ed Sullivan that I would change the lyrics to my song and would not sing it to the TV audience but being the rebel I was, I did not change the words and sung it like it was originally written. My band and I were never asked back on his show again. Who am I?

Name That Tune

Answers from last week: (nice job Tricia)

1.     How Much I Feel – Ambrosia

2.     How Can I Be Sure-The Rascals

3.     How Can You Mend a Broken Heart- The Bee Gees

4.     How Sweet It Is (To Be Loved By You)- Marvin Gaye

Can you guess the title from the following lyrics from part of the song?

1.     “…do you need some time?…on your own…do you need some time all alone…oooh everybody needs some time…on their own…”

2.     “…Does she walk?…Does she talk?… Does she come complete?…my home room home room angel…”

3.     “…everything here is so clear…you can see it…everything here is so near…you can feel it…and it’s real…so real, so real, so real so real…”

4.     “…never knew more than I really need…my mind is racing but my body’s in the lead…tonight’s the night I’m gonna push it to the limit…”

Back on this Day .

Back on this day in 1968, The Beatles closed their clothing store in London due to people stealing from the store and because it did not make money. Employees of the store were told to take people off the street and give them the merchandise in the store.

Back on this day in 1977, Peter Frampton’s “I’m In You” peaked at number 2 on the billboard charts, which was his highest recording.

Back on this day in 1991, Axl Rose’s limousine made a wrong turn in L.A. and was pulled over by police. The officer ripped up the ticket after Axl threatened to not show up to the concert (big surprise, see above) if the ticket was written.

Back on this day last year, Matther Fischer, a former organist for Procol Harum successfully sued and won for future royalties on “Whiter Shade of Pale” which he wrote the organ melody but was never credited as a writer. This is their biggest song and it’s a shame it took this long to give him the credit he deserves but hopefully our generation (and older generations) will pass this song on down to our kids and grand kids, so he’ll receive his fair share.

If it is your birthday today you share the same birth date with Paul Anka, Buddy Guy and Jeffrey Hammond (bassist for Jethro Tull).

Concert Review: Willie Nelson at Radio City Music Hall on Wed. July 28, 2010

“Summer Schoolin’”

Willie Nelson rode into town last night, set up shop at one of the Mecca’s in New York City- Radio City Music Hall- and despite the fact that the calendar says July- he “schooled” the audience by showing everyone there that he is every bit (and more) the legendary professor of American music. By the time Willie had finished, you would have thought that you were outdoors sitting around a campfire listening a bunch of friends jamming together making beautiful music under a sparkling summer night-all the concrete surrounding seemingly fading away as Willie brought a little “Country” to this “paved City.” Being a life long “New Yorker” I know this “town” doesn’t get enough of his style of home town cooking and after last night’s performance I can state that we need to give Willie the key to New York City and let him know he can come back here any time he wants. I say he opens his own place-like his friend BB did-and put his brand of Country and American music back on the menu in New York. Folks, I’m telling you right now this man is a national treasure and I am so glad that I finally went to see him perform live for the first time ever. Willie was created to make music-you know how certain people are just perfect for what profession they choose to do?-well I’m convinced when the moment Willie was born, he was given a guitar. More than a few times last night I sat there in complete awe because I didn’t know what to expect and then there he was at the head of the class performing so naturally, so effortlessly that he exceeded my expectations of living up to his legendary status. In today’s society, there are so many distractions and “props” that tend to over-stimulate or give a false sense of grandeur but in walks Willie-the Professor- who takes you back to the basics- “Reading, Riting & Righteousness”- as the music flowed with such natural beauty that it took today’s superficial “wow factor” back to its original meaning. Sometimes it is the simple things-like the way Willie and friends quaintly set up their stage despite the spectacular backdrop of Radio City- that take you back to “peace & tranquility.” Willie mesmerized his audience with beautiful moments throughout the evening and they loved and appreciated him back with heartfelt applause. In the end, it was the class that gave an “A++” grade to its Professor and we all look forward to the next time Willie will be teaching us the value of appreciating great music.

The night started with Andy and I meeting outside the steamy Hall as the humidity was back in full force again in New York after a reprieve of a day or so. As we entered on 51^st street, I was taken back on how striking Radio City is as it had been a while since I had been there for a music show. The crowd was amongst the most diverse in age that I have ever seen in all the years of attending concerts. Everyone from high-school kids to grandparents were out to enjoy the summer night and there was a sense of family as people all around were talking to each other even if they didn’t meet before last night. The opening act was the Levon Helm band and when they took the stage it seemed like the security outside the place had opened another entrance because the amount of people that came out from behind the curtain was a sight to behold. I counted at least 13 which included pianist Donald Fagen and of course the legendary Levon Helm behind the skins. It did take a couple of songs for them to warm up but once they hit their stride, the musicianship was electrifying as there were solos from the boys playing the acoustic guitar, electric guitar, trombone, trumpet, tenor sax, alto sax and other wind & horn instruments and the women singers on stage displayed an energy and passion that was second to none. As their set went on Andy remarked that the other male singers sounded eerily like Levon so at points you didn’t know if it were Levon or not. Levon did not sing many of the songs but the ones he saved for himself were very good. If you didn’t know any better you would have thought that you were down in New Orleans or anywhere on the Bayou as the festive type music was being played with such fervor that I was expecting people dancing in the aisle. (That won’t happen at Radio City as everyone is expected to remain in their seats). It was a fusion of blues, rockabilly, jazz, country and of course with a twist of rock and roll. One had a funny feeling that Willie was going to come and join them for a song and he did just that for the last song of their set-“The Weight.” Wow after so many years of listening to that song on the radio or now on my I-Pod, I was able to see it performed by Helm and Nelson-what a treat!! This brought so many smiles to the faces of the audience and if I could read minds I know everyone was going back to the time and place when this song forged unforgettable memories in their lifetime. The moment was surreal and songs like this one in my opinion have shaped and defined American music and it’s a memory we all have now.

After Levon’s band exited there was a pretty short break because as I mentioned, the setup on this huge stage for Willie’s band was compact. As he entered the stage, I was looking for a drum set similar to the one that Levon sat behind but to my surprise there was none. The drummer basically had a snare drum set upon a table and played while standing up. There was a gentleman to the right of the stage (when sitting in the audience) that had a harmonica, Willie had his acoustic guitar and there was another gentleman with the bass. Now when they started to play I heard the piano but did not initially see anyone on the stage with them. When they were into their third song or so I asked Andy who was playing the piano. He pointed her out, from our vantage point she was barely legible due to the way her piano was positioned and with the bass player standing near her, I never really saw what she looked like. It didn’t matter at all to my ears as she was flawless throughout the night as her entrances and exits to the songs were very inconspicuous but added to the flavor of the night. Willie kicked off the night with “Whiskey River” and right off the bat the first thing I noticed was his presence on the stage. He didn’t do it purposely because he is so comfortably cool but to me it was like a “sighting.” Yes one sees him all the time on the internet, TV or print avenues but to see him upon the stage in person with his all black outfit and the trademark red handkerchief around his head was something that I will not forget. I know I have been to many shows but I guess I have not seen that many legends. The familiar “Beer for My Horses” had the audience singing the chorus back to him while toasting their beers high in the air. He did a melody of songs which included –“Crazy”- which he wrote but was made popular by Patsy Cline. Then the band did an instrumental where Willie introduced his “Little sister Bobbie” on the piano. The band was tight and the audience knew from the very beginning it was going to be a special night. He told a funny story about “Me & Paul” which had the crowd laughing with some of the mischievous things they went through. “If You Got the Money Honey, I Got the Time” was one of the highlights of the show as their was some righteous guitar playing as well as a wicked harmonica solo, complimented with a nice piano solo. This was a night packed with his biggest hits and it then became very quiet as Willie’s guitar strummed the opening notes to “Georgia on My mind.” And it did not seem that the class would take a chance on talking and disturbing the Professor as I think the majority of the audience was in deep admiration of what we were all listening to. The pace picked up a bit with “Good Hearted Woman” and the guy playing the harmonica was absolutely on fire as the music just flowed right through him like he was possessed.

The crowd joined in and helped him sing the familiar “On the Road Again” and I for one had not heard this song in a long time so it was fun to sing along to. The campfire atmosphere quickly quieted as we all heard the opening notes to the exquisite-“Always on My Mind”- at this point I couldn’t believe how much I was enjoying the show. You could almost hear a pin drop as Willie’s vocals were top notch. As the song ended, the audience arose from their chair to give Mr. Nelson a standing ovation. Things picked again as there was another instrumental that showcased their musicianship and then the song called –“Superman”- had some real “giddy-up” to it and if you closed your eyes you might have thought that Jerry Lee Lewis was on the piano and Steven Tyler has nothing on the man playing harmonica-absolute flawlessness. The jamming atmosphere picked up a heavy pace as “Bloody Mary Morning” was probably the song that one could almost head bang to. Willie had a sweet guitar solo in the wonderful-“Blue Eyes Crying in the Rain- and then took the crowd back up again as the raucous “I Gotta Get Drunk” put the crowd in over-drive. I loved the part of the lyrics where he states that he has to get drunk because there are more drunks than doctors. The end of the show brought out the familiar-“Moving On Over”-which was made famous by George Thorogood and Willie and his band showed that they could kick it up with just about any type of song. Willie implored his “little sister” to start the last song of the night-“I Saw the Light”- and again she was so good, as were the rest of the band that I sat there thinking that this could be one of the best shows that I have ever seen. Willie was gracious as he shook hands with the lucky audience members sitting near the front row and he signed autographs on just about anything that was handed to him. The night ended with no encores, again we were being schooled on how it is suppose to be done.

Willie went back to the basics (maybe not for him but I know for many members of the audience who are used to other types of concerts) and displayed his immense talents as New York was treated to some real down home American music which it not used to being served. Thank you Willie, for an unforgettable evening.

Set List

1.        Whiskey River

2.        Still is Still Moving to Me

3.        Beer for My Horses

4.        Shoeshine Man

5.        Funny How Time Slips Away

6.        Crazy

7.        Night Life

8.        Instrumental

9.        Me and Paul

10.     If You Got the Money Honey, I Got the Time

11.     Georgia on My Mind

12.     Good Hearted Woman

13.     Angels Flying Too Close to the Ground

14.     On the Road Again

15.     Always on My Mind

16.     Instrumental

17.     Superman

18.     You Don’t Think I’m Funny Anymore

19.     Bloody Mary Morning

20.    Nobody’s Fault But Mine

21.     Fools Like Me

22.     Blue Eyes Crying in the Rain

23.     We Don’t Run

24.     I’ll Fly Away

25.     I Gotta Get Drunk

26.     Jambalaya

27.     Hey Good Lookin’

28.     Moving On Over

29.     I Saw the Light

Weekly Update – 07/23/2010

ZZ Top at the Beacon Theater (2^nd show added) on Mon. Sept. 13. Tickets on sale this morning at 10:00 a.m. $39.50 – $79.50.

Brandon Flowers at the Highline Ballroom on Thurs. Aug. 26. Tickets on sale today at noon. $27.50.

B.o.B. at Irving Plaza on Tues. Aug. 16. Tickets on sale today at noon. $38.50

Brooks & Dunn with Merle Haggard at PNC Bank Arts Center on Sat. Aug. 28. Tickets on sale tomorrow morning at 10:00 a.m. $25, $49.75 and $69.75

Scissor Sisters at Terminal 5 on Wed. Aug. 25. Tickets on sale today at noon. $35 ($40 day of show).

Miranda Lambert at Terminal 5 on Wed. Sept. 29. Tickets on sale today at noon. $29.50 ($30 day of show).

Guster at the Beacon Theateron Fri. Rocktober 29. Tickets on sale this morning at 10:00 a.m. $39.50.

Chris Issak at the Bergen Performing Arts Center on Thurs. Dec. 2. Tickets on sale this morning at 11:00 a.m. $29 – $109.

Eddie Money at BB Kings on Thurs. Nov. 18. Tickets on sale next Wed. July 28 at noon. $35 ($40 day of show)

The Good Rats at BB Kings on Sat. Apr. 16, 2011. (7:00 and 10:00 shows)  Tickets on sale next Wed. July 28 at 10:00 a.m. $50 (first come first serve) and $75.

Other items:

Forbes just recently listed the top earners in the music industry from June 2009 through June 2010 and the number one spot belongs to U2 who earned a whopping $130 million (after tax) due to their massive tour and each stop netted an additional $10M. AC/DC were pretty close behind, earning $114 million due to their 99 date tour. (Add in sales of merchandise and “other income” and it puts the number at $226 million in gross revenues). Bruce Springsteen took the fourth spot by earning $70 million after selling two million tickets on his tour. Lady GaGa-who used to play small clubs on East side of New York (and now sells out Madison Square Garden in a matter of seconds)- pulled in $62 million which landed her in the seventh spot. Madonna was close behind her at $58 million. Who says the ‘80’s bands are dead? Three of the top four were at the height of their careers in the 1980’s and Madonna has to be included in that as well.

Sheryl Crow’s new album-100 Miles from Memphis- didn’t receive such positive reviews from the listeners on I-Tunes. The overall grade was 3.5 stars which is a bit lower than what one is used to seeing on I-Tunes. I have to say that just listening to the 30 second samples, I liked what I heard and could see myself buying my first Sheryl Crow album (have some single songs) as she puts a nice R&B spin on this work. “Sideways” is a show stopper and elicits memories of that “old school” R&B sound.

Looking for something very cool and classic? Well then check out this week’s release of David Garrett’s release of “Rock Symphonies.” The guy is an unbelievable violinist and puts his “classical” spin on such rock classics as “Master of Puppets” by Metallica, “Smells Like teen Spirit” by Nirvana, “Kashmir” by the Mighty Led Zeppelin and “Walk this Way” by Aerosmith. The Nirvana cover is especially jaw dropping. Check it out.

My favorite “classic” rock song of the week is “Bad Case of Loving You (Doctor, Doctor)” by Robert Palmer. How great is this song?… and how many times was it played when it first came out in 1979? Wow this could be one of the most played songs in radio history. Such a shame that he passed away back in 2003 at the very young age of 54. This guy made some awesome songs in his career. Get to know some of them.

The Killers and Tom Jones collaboration? Yes it is true, Brandon Flowers has indicated that he admires what Mr. Jones has done in his career. I love it, I wish there would be more “odd” workings amongst different genre (or different time periods) of artists.

My favorite “new” song of the week is “Cold Fame” by the Band of Skulls. This is a phenomenal song, you will think that you may have heard the voice before, I can’t put my finger on it but it seems like a mix of Bono and Jack White. Their debut album-“Baby Darling Doll Face Honey”- is a super solid effort. This band is very good- you need to check them out. Need more convincing? Check out some of their songs done acoustically- listen to “Fires”- http://www.livedaily.com/sessions/72.html

Back in June Paul McCartney was honored with the Library of Congress Gershwin prize at the White House and there was a video of him performing “Hey Jude” and Mr. Obama sang along with him. Recently there was another video released with Jack White performing right in front of the President doing a fantastic cover of “Mother Nature’s Son.” By the way the entire event will be broadcast on PBS next Wednesday evening July 28. Check it out right here- http://www.billboard.com/#/news/jack-white-covers-beatles-mother-nature-1004105709.story?tag=hpfeed

Have you heard the song-“You Lost Me”-by Christina Aguilera? I know she has taken some heat for her new album-“Bionic”- for making songs like Lady Gaga. But this song will wipe out all the doubts on her singing ability and prove once and for all that she is one of the best-if not the best-female singer on the planet. Friggin’ unbelievable. Buy it now!!!

Album Review: “Rock and Roll Over” – KISS released on November 11, 1976

Ok as you all by now, KISS will always have a soft spot in my musical heart and even though there have been times when we drifted apart for some years-flash forward to the age of the “I-Pod” and the boys from New York have the second most songs on my “classic” I-Pod behind the Beatles. (Of course Gene will always throw out statistics that compare to KISS to the Beatles, so why not myself?). Let me take you back to 1976, I was back in the Sunset Park section of Brooklyn after moving from Otisville N.Y. in 1975 and going to P.S. 169-which is still there on 44^th street and 7^th avenue. It was the sixth grade, I was eleven years old growing up in a house hold of “Doo-Wop” music (which I do like) and had no idea what was waiting for me when I opened the door to a different kind of rock and roll. As I entered, it was like when Dorothy first opened her front door after her house landed in Oz after being swept up in the tornado-a new beginning with colors blazing everywhere. Why there was white make-up along with black which depicting a devil, a cat, an alien and… well I never really knew what the “star” man represented but it was cool anyway. There was spitting red blood, psychedelic gray wings which blasted out “gold like” ammunition from his guitar and if you looked closely you could see the green in the eyes of the cat behind the drum kit as it seemed like he was in the forest ready to pounce on you in a moment’s notice.

Now think of the cover of “Rock and Roll Over”-can it get any more colorful? I can recall being so fascinated by this band that I knew I had to make them my “BFF” (oops that’s not 1976 lingo but you get the picture?). I started to purchase posters-the one that clearly stands out is the Bi-Centennial one-and hanging them all over my room. I started a KISS notebook where I collected newspaper articles, “Circus” magazine (remember that?) photos and any other outlet that I could get my hands on. My life at that time centered on playing baseball and KISS-that was it. I use to go over to a friend’s house-Rodney- and all we did was compare our KISS notes and listen to their albums. Now remember back then, there were never any photos of KISS without their make-up on and since there was no “TMZ” around, obtaining pictures of any one of these guys was the equivalent of trying to dig up dirt on Derek Jeter-it just didn’t happen. The grip that they had on the music world as well as NY during the late seventies was really something to experience and is a memory that I will always treasure. One of my favorite albums during that time period was “Rock and Roll Over” and to be quite honest I bought it because of the artwork contained on the cover-I figured the music had to be good because this was one of the best covers on any album that I had ever seen. (I still think that today). Now I like many of their albums but this week I am in the mood for this one (who knows in coming months I could be doing their debut-or “Dressed to Kill” or “Hotter than Hell”). This is an album that should be in your music library, period end of story.

“Rock and Roll Over” begins with the super cool-“I Want You”-I remember as a kid loving the beginning of the song because it starts off acoustically and then BAM-hard rock in your face just before you can take the needle off the record to try and skip to the next song. (Hey don’t do that!!!) “In the morning I raise my head…is… I WANT YOU..” This is always a show stopper at their shows as the fans will actually sing every word for Paul. I really think that on the album KISS was operating on all cylinders as Ace was light’s out with his work on the axe, while Peter was drumming from the bathroom-yes the bathroom-very true as one can clearly hear those “shower” acoustics in his drumming throughout the album. This is also one of Johnny Boy’s favorite KISS song (after “Beth” of course). I want you to go out and get this album just based on this song. Track # 2-“Take Me”- is pure rock and roll equipped with a driving beat along with some most excellent vocals from Paul. I love that “high pitch” guitar line that Ace employs towards the end of the song. This is a head stomping song that will also get you moving across the living room floor as you dance and also air guitar yourself around the room. “Take Me, break Me, love me…” Love it. “Calling Dr. Love” is one of the coolest songs ever written I’m sorry but I will take no arguments here. You know you love the guitar riff that introduces the song (along with the obligatory “cow bell”)-it could be one of the most recognizable songs on the planet. Excuse me while I turn up the volume… OK I’m back as Gene’s vocals are piercing my ears right now. I could argue that this might just be their most popular song after “Rock and Roll All Nite.” I remember hearing KISS for the first time on WABC radio on the AM dial-yes kiddies there used to be music played on the AM stations back in the day-and it was this song. It was funny listening to Harry Harrison introducing this song because it was so out of his normal play list. This was the one and only KISS finally getting some air play on the radio. Excuse me while I turn up the volume on Ace’s guitar solo- I feel like I’m flying to outer space (you see his costume really works)…I’m back again…any way I will forever remember this song while I spent my summer of 1977 in Otisville N.Y. while listening to WABC as they played this song at least 4 times a day. Love the part where Gene yells-“Haaahh!!!” C’mon folks this is great stuff right here. “Ladies Room”-Ok we all know about how KISS sometimes utilizes juvenile lyrics-case in point- but the focus here is on the music. Now I will admit that I do like the live version of this song and always like to hear this song when I see them in concert. The studio version sounds a bit slower than the live versions. The energy comes back for the last song-“Baby Driver”-on side one and the vocals are done by a slick cat-Peter Criss-like I said earlier these cats were at the top of their game on this album and Peter is perfect for this song because of his “raspy” voice which compliments the raucousness that surrounds him. Love the part where his voice echoes-“let chu in.. let chu in..”- ahead of their time as the echo thing would soon take over the disco genre. Also loves the way Peter screams in this song-it can’t be rock and roll if the drummer is not screaming while pounding away on the skins. “Go baby driver… go baby driver.. PUSH THE METAL TO THE FLOOR!!!…”

Side two starts off with the electrifying “Love and Leave ‘Em” and in my opinion this is one of the best songs that Gene has ever recorded with KISS. I love the driving beat and how he says “my limousine is awaiting and I see you coming my way Hey Hey Hey…” and then when he talks about setting up a reservation between ten and two-“How do you do??!!!”-I can’t get enough of this; excuse me while I start the song over again just so that I can listen to those parts again. Can I get any more psyched? Now again I’m not an advocate of the lyrics and it is again pretty juvenile but I love the musicianship (that’s right I said I love the musicianship of KISS) as Ace’s guitar solo will explode in your ears and you won’t believe that you actually love KISS. “Mr. Speed”-OK you can see a theme here again but just focus on the music. This is an actual sing along song-albeit while you are alone in your car-or at a KISS concert-I absolutely love when Paul says “Ah Ah”-you know I have to rewind to hear that again. The arrangement is simple but sometimes “Keeping It Simple Silly” (don’t like the word- “stupid”) is the best way. “See You in Your Dreams” is one of the “purest” KISS songs in the sense if I had to pick a song that depicts their “sound”-this would have to be one of the songs I would pick. It has their great background vocals, the pounding drums from Peter and a nice guitar solo by Ace. Gene has that real distinctive vocal and even though he is now a “reality TV star” you can’t take away the fact that back in the day (and still now) he has a perfect rock and roll voice. “Hard Luck Woman” was written by Paul and supposedly he wanted Rod Stewart to sing the vocals for them but thank goodness it wasn’t to be (no offense Mr. Stewart you know I have full respect for you) as this is probably the second most popular song in Peter’s repertoire after “Beth.” This is also one of Johnny Boy’s favorite songs as I can picture him singing –“If ever I met you…I never have seen you cry…” This is a good sing along song as you are sitting around the campfire. The last song that ends this solid album is-“Making Love”-and Ace is blazing all over this song-as well as Peter on drums. I love the “stop and go” sounds that Peter puts on display with his drumming as I go high then go low. Paul’s vocals are crystal clear-and if the kids are around you just may want to turn it down but when Ace’s guitar solo comes on it is mandatory that you put it as LOUD as you can stand it. The song has some “giddy-up” to it and I can picture one of your uncles at a wedding when they do that “Arm” dance- you know what I’m talking about-this is the song to do it to. This is a fun song to listen to as the musicianship is at a peak standard.

“Rock and Roll Over” has a great album cover and that is the reason I originally bought it but I’m here to tell you to purchase it for the music. If you don’t have any KISS in your library, I would recommend starting here with this album-I know many other fans are screaming for “Destroyer” or “Hotter than Hell” or “Dressed to Kill”- and honestly you won’t go wrong with anyone of those either. (Yes “Love Gun” as well just for “I Stole Your Love” alone). I spent many a day trying to draw a replication of this album cover (and should have kept at least one of them) and spent many more just listening to these songs. (No I don’t have any of those original posters or my scrap book- I know- I’m kicking myself). 1976 was a great year for KISS as they released “Destroyer” in March and then “Rock and Roll Over” in November and my guess is that you will play “Rock and Roll”-Over and Over. What are you waiting for? The KISS Army is still recruiting.

“TOP TEN”:

Ok I’m assuming most of you reading this page have been gripped in the midst of a summer heat wave where the temperatures have been a “scorcher” for the area that you reside in since the middle of June, right? Right here in the Tri-State area it has been so warm that there is be a chance that this July could go down as the hottest ever on record. To put it in perspective, when you emerge from the NYC subway after trudging through the lovely underground tunnel, it actually feels like a “cool” breeze has hit your face and you are pleased that you are outside on the burning city sidewalks. And since I covered the best songs of the “summer” last year, I figured this week I would name the top ten songs that contain the word “HOT” in the title of the song. (No, “Hotel” is not included) There may be some I miss but this is my list: (Note: KISS’s “Hotter than Hell” would be number 11):

10.     Get It Hot– AC/DC– Who creates better heat than AC/DC?- I guarantee that if you see these guys live in concert you will be sweating. And for the die-hards if they pulled this song out their catalog (appears on “Highway to Hell”-you know it’s hot there) at one of their shows, the temperature would rise more than a few degrees- it would have to as your head will be banging up & down like those dudes on the commercial for the “J&R” music store. I’m sweating from head banging after replaying this song like four times already. The song is short and sweet but packs a powerful punch. Perfect song for your next hot BBQ!! \m/ \m/

9.     Hot Child in the City–Nick Gilder– I had not heard this song for years until Chris threw it on one of his Spin CD’s for our MBIA classes back in the mid 2000’s (imagine that, we can now say “mid 2000’s”-I’m getting way too old) and since that time I can’t get enough of this song. I use to love this song “back in the day”-although it doesn’t cut the mustard with my kids-it’s not “hot” at all to them. I say-“what do they know?” If you don’t know this song, check it out I think you like it. Love it.

8.     Hot, Hot, Hot– Buster Poindexter– C’mon you know you love this song inwardly even though outwardly you express the dismay on your face. Just think of the many weddings you have attended where your Aunt Mary or Uncle Joe have led the “ single file conga-line” to this song in-between the tables as those who didn’t get up and join the fun, pretend they don’t notice the entire guest list trying to squeeze behind their seat to get through as they eat their cake. This song gathers everyone out to the dance floor-Grandma, Grandpa, Aunts, Uncles, Nieces and Nephews-who doesn’t want to have fun? Next time I want you to grab a hold of someone’s back and get on that line-“Como esta???”

7.     Hot Girls in Love– Loverboy– I love this song and always turn up the volume when I hear it. This song moves and is guaranteed to get your temperature up-you can add it to your exercise play list. Back in the day, these guys were high energy and it showed in their songs. It contains a sizzling guitar solo that should make you stand up and pay attention. Of course it has “hand claps” and that automatically makes it eligible for a spot on my top ten list any day.

6.     Hot Stuff– Donna Summer– C’mon it is not summer time if you don’t hear this song at least once from Memorial Day until Labor Day. (This could be Brooklyn’s national anthem). Of course while growing up I denied ever liking this song but privately was wishing I could dance like Tony Manero in Saturday Night Fever. My wife and her best friend-Roxanna-will sing and dance all night long to this song as well as the rest of her catalog. This is a pure fun song and perfect for your next “block party” or backyard BBQ as it is guaranteed to get more than a few people out of their seats.

5.     Hot Fun in the Summertime– Sly & the Family Stone– The opening piano notes get me all the time as I drift away into one of the best summer songs ever. Can’t you just picture a whole bunch of people at an ice cream place at Cape Cod or the Jersey shore where the kids who are not keeping up with licking that cone will soon be dripping with chocolate or vanilla ice cream on their face and clothes? Or the people who hold up the line because they don’t know what to order? This has one of the finest grooves in music history. Hey recently my good friend Slats was able to hang out with “Cynthia” and “Jerry” from the Family Band at BB Kings. Now how cool is that? Maybe a bit cooler than that ice cream cone. “Hot fun in the summer time!!!”

4.     Hot Pants, Pt. 1 – James Brown & the J.B.’s– This could be the best “blistering” grooves ever created in music history. How can one have a “Hot” list and not include James Brown? There is an episode of “Everybody Hates Chris” where Chris’s mother gyrates and dances all around the room when she hears the groove from Mr. Brown and that is how I wish I could dance when I hear this song. James makes you make parts of your body you didn’t even know existed. I can listen to this song for days straight. “Do the chicken all night long…”

3.     Hot for Teacher – Van Halen– How great is this song? Doesn’t it seem like there are at least 3 guys playing the drums on this song? This could be one of Alex’s best recordings on the skins. Even though we don’t want to think about school right now, this song definitely makes the summer hotter with the incredible guitar riffs along with the blistering pace and of course the shenanigans that is going on in the background with Diamond Dave & the boys can only mean that summer is not that far off as this stuff wouldn’t happen in December, right? (Ok go with it…) By the time this song is finished you will sweating just a little more or if you’re like me- a whole lot more. \m/ \m/

2.     Hot Blooded– Foreigner– I love this freaking song since the day it came out and it will forever be in my blood veins as it is arguably when of the best guitar driven songs in rock history. Forget what Joey Ramone said about these guys being corporate rock, if this is corporate rock then I’ll take another order of this kick ass rock and roll. (sorry for the bad language kids but I had to make a point). Lou Gramm was one of the best rock and roll singers during the 1970’s and 1980’s and this song is the proof in the pudding. He has conviction, passion and raw energy which are some of the necessary ingredients to bring the temperature up. Mick Jones guitar solo is righteous and I’m assuming this song is on “Guitar Hero” as it does not appear on “Rock Band”-this song is so good it deserves to be on both systems.

1.     Hot Legs– Rod Stewart-For those who really know me you know this had to be number one, right? If you attended my wedding, where did all the attention turn to when the DJ put this song on? That’s right- my mother. I think she loved this track more than I did. When this song came on it was like the rock and roll was injected right into her body and she danced and moved so smoothly it was like she became Rod Stewart. I can remember when I first bought “Foot Loose & Fancy Free” and when this song came on, my mother told me to immediately open my bedroom door as she wanted to rock out to this tune just as much as I did. From the opening foot bass drum to the ending scream by Mr. Stewart we would become possessed and every time we watch our wedding video we all wait for the bass solo part where my mother can be seen lifting up both arms while moving those shoulders up and down with such joy-it really is a sight to behold and something I will never forget. Thanks Mom for the memories and I will always think of you when I hear it.

Trivia Questions

Answers from last week:

1.     Cherilyn Sarkisian

2.     Marvin Lee Aday

3.     Saul Hudson

4.     Gordon Sumner

This week’s trivia (“One Hit” Wonders)-

1.     I had a one hit wonder during the 1990’s and the song is called “What I Am?” Who am I?

2.     Our band had a one hit wonder in the 1970’s and we have played at weddings in Brooklyn. What was the hit and what is our name?

3.     I wrote this one hit wonder in the late 1960’s and I lost the rights to this song and had to fight for many years to get it back. This major song has appeared in countless blockbuster movies and is even on the game-“Rockband”- and has made me a lot of money. What is the song and who am I?

4.     We were supposed to be the next “Beatles” but things didn’t quite work out that way. That said, our one hit wonder is arguably the greatest one hit wonder ever and we made it in the 1970’s. Recently our lead singer passed away. What is the name of our band and what was our song?

Name That Tune

Answers from last week:

1.     “Summertime”- DJ Jazzy Jeff & The Fresh Prince

2.     “Summer Breeze”-Seals & Croft

3.     “Saturday In the Park”-Chicago

4.     “Rock the Boat” –The Hughes Corporation

Can you guess the title from the following lyrics from part of the song?

1.     “…so you try…try to stay in the middle…and then you cry…you cry just a little…then you both realize just how foolish you’ve been…”

2.     “…whenever I…whenever I am away from you…I want to die…cause you know I want to stay with you…how do I know… maybe you’re trying to use me…”

3.     “…I can think of younger days…when living for my life…was everything a man could want to do…I could never see tomorrow…”

4.     “…I needed the shelter of someone’s arms…and there you were…I needed someone to understand my ups and downs…and there you were…”

Back on this Day .

Sadly back on this day in 1980, Keith Godchaux-keyboardist for Grateful Dead-was killed in a car accident at the very young age of 32.

Back on this day in 1955, Chuck Berry released his first single-“Maybellene”- and it went to number 5 on the Billboard charts.

Back on this day in 1981, Billy Squier received his first gold album for the “most excellent”-“Don’t Say No.” If you don’t have this album, shame on you.

Back on this day in 1989, Ringo Starr began his “All-Star Band” summer concert series (which is still going strong today) in Dallas TX and the all-stars included Joe Walsh, Billy Preston, Clarence Clemons and Dr. John. (nice line-up).

Back on this day in 1993, Nirvana played a surprise concert at the Roseland Ballroom in New York to showcase their new material from the upcoming release of “In Utero.”

Back on this day in 2003, the Sun Studios in Memphis TN was declared a national landmark by the U.S. registry of Historical Places.

If it is your birthday today you share the same birth date with Slash and Blair Thornton (guitarist for Bachman Turner Overdrive)

Weekly Update – 07/16/2010

Nickelback with Three Days Grace and Buckcherry at the Mohegan Sun on Tues. Sept. 28 and at the Prudential Center on Wed. Sept. 29. Tickets on sale tomorrow morning at 10:00 a.m. Mohegan: $90 and $110. The “Rock:” $49.50, $69.50 and $89.50.

Megadeth, Slayer and Anthrax at the Nassau Coliseum on Fri. Rocktober 8. (The “American Carnage” Tour) Tickets on sale next Fri. July 23 at 10:00 a.m. $6.50 – $55.50

The Misfits at Irving Plaza on Thurs. Rocktober 28. Tickets on sale tomorrow morning at 10:00 a.m. $27.50.

The Dead Kennedys at Irving Plaza on Fri. Rocktober 15. Tickets on sale this morning at 10:00 a.m. $21.49.

They Might Be Giants at the Town Hall on Sun. Sept. 26. Tickets on sale today at 11:00 a.m. $27 (if you buy 4 then $100).

Trey Songz and Monica at the Beacon Theater on Thurs. Sept. 16. Tickets on sale this morning at 10:00 a.m. $55 – $75

Phoenix at Madison Square Garden on Wed. Rocktober 20. Pre-sale tickets available now for American Express cardholders only until 10:00 p.m. tonight. General public tickets on sale tomorrow morning at 10:00 a.m. $29.50, $39.50 & $49.50.

The Indigo Girls at the Wellmont Theater on Fri. Nov. 5. Tickets on sale today at noon. $35 and $45.

The Doobie Brothers at the Westbury Theater on Fri. Nov. 19. Tickets on sale tomorrow at 12:30 p.m. $50 and $60.

Foghat at the Ridgefield Playhouse on Sat. Rocktober 9. Tickets on sale now. $60.

The Robert Randolph Band at the Ridgefield Playhouse on Wed. Sept. 8. Tickets on sale now. $62.50.

Social Distortion at the Roseland Ballroom on Thurs. Nov. 4. Tickets on sale now $35.

Slash at Terminal 5 on Tues. Sept. 14. Tickets on sale now. $32.50

Other items:

Rumor of the week: Pearl Jam has reportedly “retired” for the very near future as Eddie Vedder informed the crowd in Portugal that they were part of their last show-“not forever but for some time.” We will see.

Unbelievably last Friday night during one of their homecoming shows at the new Meadowlands stadium, (Jon) Bon Jovi tore his calf muscle on stage during the last few songs. He made light of the incident saying that is what happens when one gets old but that he was “still good looking.”Jon was assisted off the stage by his band mates when the show ended. (Thanks Sharif and Monica).

Speaking of injuries, Joe Perry was released from Morton Hospital in MA yesterday after sustaining minor injuries when the motorcycle that he was riding was hit by a car. A sixty-two year old woman was cited for following his cycle too closely. Thank goodness Joe and feel better!!!

Last week our family (which included our dear friend Angelina) took a vacation up to Cape Cod-Brewster-and during the 4.5 hour car ride I was “schooled” in today’s music as my youngest son and Angelina proved that I don’t know all there is to know about music. I have to say that I was blown away on how she (and my son) knew every word to every song that is played on “pop” radio. (my oldest son was miserable when we put on this music). I have to admit that I like many of the songs but on the other hand I sort of felt like my oldest son at points and wanted to change the station but I couldn’t because I could see the pure fun that the other two were having. Like I have always maintained-there is nothing that gets me more pumped when I see people enjoying music, especially when they know every word to these songs-that’s impressive to me. Well here are some of the songs that I learned over the vacation-“Airplanes” by B.o.B. (with HayleyWilliams of “Paramore”); “Billionaire”-Travie McCoy (I loved this song); “Riding Solo” by Jason Derulo; “Cooler Than Me”-Mike Posner; “OMG”- Usher; “Naturally”- Selena Gomez; “Break Your Heart” by Taio Cruz & Ludacris and “The Only Exception”-Paramore. Thank you!!! You see you are never too old to discover music.

My new favorite song of the week is “Come Back Song” by Darius Rucker-a perfect sing along song. He is so much better as a “Country” artist than he ever was with Hootie & the Blowfish, my apologies to him and his fans of Hootie but in my opinion he is great as a country artist.

Remember when I told you that Santana will release an album on Sept. 21 where he takes different singers and puts his take on some of rock’s most well known hits? Well here is another song that he will be doing:-“Photograph” by Def Leppard and former American Idol contestant-Chris Daughtry-will be on vocals. I guess I can’t say anything until I hear it but somehow my gut tells me that no one can sing it like Mr. Elliot. (But I could be wrong).

Ozzy has released a live “EP” of his Ozzfest Tour which took place earlier in London and contains six of his classics and for $6 you can’t beat. If you thought Ozzy was done, no way-buy it now!! \m/ \m/

If you are looking for some cool new pop music check out the release by The Maine and their “Black and White” album. (Their album cover made me think it was a Maroon 5 release). “Right Girl” seems to be the most popular right now and after listening to the 30 second sample on the rest of the songs on I-Tunes, I would recommend to “buy.” Check it out.

Rolling Stone is reporting that R.E.M. has completed their 15^th studio album slated to be released in early spring 2011. It was recorded at the Hansa studio in Berlin Germany the same place where U2 recorded Achtung Baby.

All weekend long, the classic rock station in New York-Q104.3 on you FM dial- will playing songs from the top 104 albums of all time. From Aersosmith to the Mighty Zep. It starts today at 1:00 p.m.

The Who will tour next year despite the fact that Pete Townsend hearing continues to get worse. Supposedly the volume will be lowered on the stage set but Mr. Daltrey is concerned that Pete will turn up the volume because that is what rock and roll does to a person. Pete’s condition is so bad that he even has cut his time down in the recording studio-this is going to be interesting. Wouldn’t be surprised if Roger will lead the Who name by himself. (and then there was one).

Megadeth frontman Dave Mustaine will release his autobiography on Aug. 3 entitled-“Mustaine: A Heavy Metal Memoir”-and he will do a book tour signing which will include more than a few stops in New York. On Thurs. Aug. 12 he will appear at the Borders bookstore at 100 Broadway in lower Manhattan from noon to 2:00 p.m. Two days before that on Tues. Aug. 10 he will appear at the Barnes & Noble at 555 Fifth Avenue and 46^th street from 12:30 – 2:30. I think I may just have to stroll up to Borders. \m/ \m/ (You know a big part of that book has to contain his side of the Metallica debacle).

Album Review: “Electric Ladyland” by Jimi Hendrix released on Rocktober 25, 1968

I needed help again this week as my schedule seems to be getting tighter so I asked my oldest son to write an album review and to my surprise he picked Jimi Hendrix on his own. (Remember he was born in 1994 and look who he picks-I’m sorry but I am swelling with pride). Here are his words:

Recently I have dived into the archive of music by the one and only Jimi Hendrix and it hit me like a bullet.  I am an avid fan of guitar players, especially blues guitarists and have a huge fascination with the instrument. I credit guitarist John Mayer for introducing me to the blues and guitar based music, and from there I worked my way backwards into discovering the artists that inspired him.  I discovered Stevie Ray Vaughan, B.B. King, Eric Clapton, Jeff Beck, along with rock icons like Jimmy Page, Carlos Santana, Eddie Van Halen, and contemporaries like Robert Randolph, Jack White, and Dan Auerbach. However for a reason unknown I never really went extensively into the library of the legendary Jimi Hendrix. It’s almost like a fact that he is the greatest guitarist of all time and although I never questioned that fact there was always a doubt in my mind that maybe, just maybe he was a little overrated.  Well I can officially say that after today there is no doubt in my mind at all, I know for a fact that Jimi Hendrix is indeed the greatest electric guitarist of all time.

A few days ago I found my dad’s Jimi Hendrix Box Set and decided to check it out. Although I found it very interesting and really liked a lot of the songs I still wasn’t quite convinced he was the greatest.  However today I went to the CD store and bought “Electric Ladyland”, I don’t really know why I did but something about it appealed to me. It just had that “it” factor; sometimes I get a feeling that an album is gonna be good just by looking at it and I never question the instinct I just get the album. So when I got home I listened to the entire album straight through and my mind was completely blown away.  I couldn’t even think straight because I had just listened to pure genius. There was no filler at all, every song just got better and better. I had finally experienced Jimi Hendrix for myself; I didn’t have to go by what others said about him anymore. Even though before today I accepted Hendrix as the greatest guitarist ever, now I KNOW from experience that he is the greatest of all time.

“Electric Ladyland” starts off with “…And the God’s Made Love” and it’s about a minute of random noises that prepares you for the joy ride that is Electric Ladyland. After the intro ends a calm bluesy song with a hint of R&B starts playing and you hear Jimi’s great voice singing along with his soaring guitar licks.  The song is called “Have You Ever Been (To Electric Ladyland)” and really sets the tone for the album. After it ends all of the sudden you hear the popular “Crosstown Traffic” burst onto the speakers and you immediately get pumped up. How could anyone dislike this song? It’s impossible!  It has such a groove to it; you just have to start moving. Track number 3 is a standout song on the album, the amazing “Voodoo Chile” (not to be confused with ‘Voodoo Child (Slight Return)’) is a 15 minute blues jam with Steve Winwood on the organ (he plays extremely well on this song). This is such a fantastic slow blues song; Jimi’s guitar solo is just out of the world. It’s hard to put into words how crazy Jimi’s guitar work is; when you listen to him play you have to simply surrender to the music, let yourself go and just feel the music. This song ends side one of the double album. My first listen through the album I thought that there is no way this album is gonna get better because this first side was unbelievable. But I was proven wrong “Electric Ladyland” just gets better and better.

Side two starts off with the short but great “Little Miss Strange” in which bassist Noel Redding takes on lead vocals. He has a surprisingly good voice that eerily sounds like John Lennon and his voice combined with the magnificent blues guitar riffs and a grade “A” solo make the song a winner. “Long Hot Summer Night” follows and continues the trend of a perfect album. Again it’s just not possible to dislike this song, it has everything in it. Hendrix shows off his rockability with “Come On (Let the Good Times Roll)” which was a standout track for me. I instantly loved the guitar riff and when the solo came in I was on cloud nine. I just sat there in awe at what I had just heard; it’s one of best solos on the album. Jimi shows off his psychedelic side with the next two songs “Gypsy Eyes” and “Burning of the Midnight Lamp” which sound really creepy yet good at the same time. One of my favorite songs on the album is next which is “Rainy Day, Dream Away.” I just love when Jimi says “Hey maaaannn it’s raining!” and “Oh yeaaah I see what you mean brother”, it’s just so funny. I love the laid back feel to song; it’s just like a simple jam with Jimi just playing his guitar along to an organ. I can’t explain why but I just love this song! One of Jimi’s most interesting songs follows and it’s called “1983…(A Mermaid I Should Turn to Be).” This song is some of Jimi’s best work as a writer; it’s a very philosophical song. I think that on this album Jimi really stepped up his game writing wise, every song has lyrics that are so much more advanced compared to his earlier albums. Again the psychedelic feelings take over when you listen to this long epic track. Also I have to mention that there is a flute player that adds a little magic to the song. After the outro for that song “Still Raining, Still Dreaming” starts side four.

“Still Raining, Still Dreaming” is basically the continuation of “Rainy Day, Dream Away” and like that song it is awesome! This song has a long guitar solo and since it’s Jimi playing what’s not to like? The greatness continues with “House Burning Down”, it has such a funky beat to it especially in the beginning. I love when Jimi says “So I left him sippin’ his tea!” the lyrics to this song are so great. When the solo comes in and Jimi starts hitting those high notes I just go crazy, it’s as simple as that. One of Jimi Hendrix’s most famous covers is next and it’s none other than Bob Dylan’s “All Along the Watchtower.” Hendrix adds so much to this wonderful song, his flawless soloing is just magical. This is rock and roll at its very best. Now the whole album winds down and finishes with the crown jewel of the entire record, “Voodoo Child (Slight Return).” This in all honesty could be the definitive guitar song of all time; it has probably one of the best rifts ever created and the best solo on the whole album. Seriously this is Hendrix’s greatest achievement as a guitarist (not ‘Purple Haze’); this sets the bar for guitar playing. No one will ever be able to play guitar like he does.

Overall this is an album that any music lover, Hendrix fan, or guitar fan should own. Although many will say that “Are You Experienced?” is the ultimate Jimi Hendrix album personally I believe “Electric Ladyland” to be his greatest musical achievement. The music is a lot more sophisticated than his previous albums; his guitar playing, vocals, and writing are a par up from anything he did before this masterpiece. So I ask you the reader, in the words of Jimi Hendrix, “have you been to Electric Ladyland?” If the answer is no then you need to go to “Electric Ladyland” for yourself, and when you do you’ll love it so much you will never want to leave.

Key Tracks: “Voodoo Child (Slight Return),” “All Along the Watchtower,” “Come On (Let the Good Times Roll),” and “Little Miss Strange.”

“TOP TEN”:

This past Monday my brother and his wife celebrated the birth of their first born child- a boy- 9 lbs. 5 oz.- so I decided to dedicate this week’s top ten songs to all three of them by trying to name my favorite top ten songs that relate to having a baby- a boy or a girl. Now this is probably the hardest top ten categories I have selected because I know there are songs that I will not put on this list that may be one of your personal favorites. (I can only go by the songs that I know of) That’s the thing, obviously I know that my top ten lists are always personal but this week it takes on an extra special meaning so I will do my best to pick songs that I believe truly come from the heart in depicting probably the greatest experience any couple will have in their lifetime.

The amount of joy that has surrounded our family is a feeling that I wish I could bottle up and save forever. You can truly feel the excitement in the air as the feeling of wanting to do everything that you possibly can to make the life of your child be better than what your parents have done for you is a goal that one probably doesn’t think about until you have a child of your own. (Naturally or adopted). The unbelievable sense of connection between you and your child is one of the greatest feelings in the world. I was lucky enough to see my nephew in his mom’s birthing room and I completely melted inside while trying to hold back the tears of joy as I looked at him all wrapped up in his blankets looking so comfortable. So with that in mind, I have picked songs which personally hit you right in the heart and spread that utmost feeling of love & joy throughout your body.

Congratulations to my brother and his wife on the birth of their first child-as I write this tears are streaming down my face as I can’t believe my “baby” brother now has a baby of his own. Remember that “feeling in the air” that I described well it also includes the spirit of my mother-who I know has the biggest smile in heaven right now.

10.     I Will Take Care of You– Amy Sky– Prior to my children being born I don’t think I had that instinct to “protect” but the moment both of my boys were born there was something that came over me that I don’t think you can explain until you go through it. The power of the bond was so strong that you will do everything in your power to “take care of you.” There are many versions of this song but I love the way Amy sings it-you can feel her passion, her pride and that sense of protection that overtakes every parent. Beautiful song.

9.     Julie Through the Glass– Carly Simon– Wow what a song. This is for all those parents who have just had a baby, the lyrics are short (as is the song) but they are right to the point-“…Julie through the glass…looking up at me…you have just got to be…the sweetest thing I have ever seen…” It sort of reminds me of something The Carpenters could have recorded as Carly’s soft vocals are pure perfection and she will make you drift off and think of your own experience of having a child.

8.     Lullaby (Goodnight My Angel)– Billy Joel– This legend has made so many great songs in his lifetime but none probably meant more to him than this tune. This song has all the ingredients for tugging at the heart strings including a “sleepy” melodic tune exemplified by his brilliant ability to play the piano as well as a crystal clear voice with lyrics that brings one to near tears-“…someday we’ll all be gone but lullaby’s go on and on…they never die…that’s how you and I will be.” This is an exquisite song and if you have a new born you can sing this tune when putting the little one down for bed.

7.     Flowers for Zoe– Lenny Kravitz– I don’t know how you feel but Mr. Kravitz has made, in my opinion, some of the best heart felt songs in the past few decades. He has dealt with the pain of losing both parents with heart crushing tributes but on the other side he has also beautifully written a composition which welcomed his daughter into the world. The violin part is pure perfection in the background as you drift off and think of all the possibilities for your new born.

6.     A New Day Has Come – Celine Dion– An absolute stunner of a song- talk about a song that is written from the heart. It’s obvious that Celine had some struggles to bring a life into the world but then it happened-“…where there was pain…now there is joy…where there was weakness I have found my strength…all in the eyes of a boy…”-after seeing a new life enter the world this week I can totally relate to the words-“all in the eyes of a boy.” It is really an overwhelming feeling that one can not put into words. This tune will tingle your spine, bring tears to your eyes and put a smile on your face-just like that little boy or girl will do to you.

5.     With Arms Wide Open– Creed– There was a point in time where I was totally engulfed in the band called Creed but kind of drifted off once they really became popular (not on purpose this time) and then all their problems started. Anyway- whenever I hear the first words to this song-“…well I just heard…the news today…it seems my life is gonna change…”- it sends chills down my spine even to this day. Mr. Stapp wrote this song after the birth of his baby boy and you can feel the passion and joy in his voice as the magic of a baby entering the world is an experience like none other. I love the “theatrical” feel to this song- it was meant to be that way.

4.     Brahm’s Lullaby– Dean Martin’s version- I know you are probably scratching your head on this one but his version of this traditional song is breathtaking and it’s not so much the lyrics in the song but again it’s Dean’s brilliant vocals that due it for me. I can’t even move when I hear this song. I would suggest that my brother and sister-in-law purchase this song off of I-Tunes if they have any trouble getting him to go to sleep-this song should absolutely mesmerize him to settle down.

3.     Isn’t She Lovely–Stevie Wonder-Can’t you just hear the pure joy in Stevie’s voice when you listen to this amazing song and the lyrics are wonderful. Love the actual baby cries/noises throughout the song. The melody is a celebration of life and you just have to sway while moving your head back and forth along with the mandatory hand claps-this song has to get you moving your body as well as move you emotionally. If I had to pick I would say his harmonica solo is his best one ever, it just seems to go on forever but so seamless that you don’t even realize that he has stopped singing. Pure perfection in so many ways.

2.     A Song for Sleeping– Stone Temple Pilots– Wow the first time I heard this song I was blown away and I still get that same feeling every time I listen to it now. I wish I could have written this song, I drift off into a zone where I am taken back to the births of my two boys and that unbelievable feeling-again a bond that is stronger than anything you can imagine. “…your more than beautiful.. and you’re my son…I don’t deserve this…I never thought it could be…quite like the moment, when you first smiled at me…” I think back to the moments when both of my sons opened their eyes and saw me or when they first smiled at me-whew just a supreme occasion that will always be with me.

1.     Beautiful Boy (Darling Boy)– John Lennon-I think this is the ultimate “baby” song as I really can not move whenever I hear this song. “…close your eyes…have no fear… the monster’s gone, he’s on the run…and your daddy is here…” The arrangement is nothing short of spectacular, especially when the bridge of the song starts-“…out on the ocean…sailing away…I can hardly wait to see you come of age…”- it’s just an amazing song. Any new parent can so relate to the lyrics because it is what every parent feels (or goes through) with every new born. And by the way, my nephew is just that- a beautiful boy!!!

Trivia Questions

Answers from last week:

1.     Deep Purple

2.     True, the JD Fortune era lasted only one album and one year 2005-2006

3.     True

4.     Billy Ocean

This week’s trivia (Real Names)-

1.     What is Cher’s real name?

2.     What is Meatloaf’s real name?

3.     What is Slash’s real name?

4.     What is Sting’s real name?

Name That Tune

Answers from last week:

1.     “The Rain, the Park and Other Things”- The Cowsills

2.     “Have You Ever Seen the Rain”-Creedence Clearwater Revival

3.     “Shout”-Tears for Fears

4.     “Flashdance (What a Feeling)” –Irene Cara

Can you guess the title from the following lyrics from part of the song?

1.     “…here it is…a groove, slightly transformed just a bit of a break from the norm…just a little something to break the monotony…of all that hard core dance…”

2.     “…see the curtains hanging in the window…in the evening on a Friday night…little light that is shining through the window, lets me know everything is alright…”

3.     “…People talking, really smiling…a man playing guitar…and singing for us all…will you help him change the world…”

4.     “…So I’d like to know where you got the notion…say I’d like to know where… you got the notion…”

Back on this Day .

Sadly back on this day in 1981, Harry Chapin (“Cats in the Cradle’) was killed in a car accident. He was a graduate of Brooklyn Tech in 1960. (I was in 1983 and “Slats” in 1982).

Sadly back on this day in 1996, John Panozzo-drummer for Styx-passed away at the very young age of 47 after a long bout with cirrhosis of the liver.

Back on this day in 1966, the powerful trio of Eric Clapton, Ginger Baker and Jack Bruce formed the band called Cream.

Back on this day in 1976, the Allman Brothers split up over disagreements within the band. They are obviously still going strong today but there was another breakup before they finally settled down in 1989.

Back on this day in 1976, Loggins and Messina broke up.

Back on this day in 1992, the Charlie Watts quartet walked off the Late Night show with David Letterman after a disagreement with the show’s producers.

Back on this day in 1993, Guns & Roses had a case of drug possession thrown out of court by a Buenos Aires judge as it was determined that the “drugs” they had were really vitamins.

If it is your birthday today you share the same birth date with Stuart Copeland (if you don’t know then shame on you).

Weekly Update – 07/02/2010

(I will be on vacation next week and will be back with a posting on Fri. July 16)

Chuck Berry at BB Kings on Friday Dec. 31 for two sets: 8:00 and 10:00 p.m. Tickets on sale on Wed. July 14 at noon. $120.

Marc Anthony at Madison Square Garden on Fri. Sept. 10. Tickets on sale now. $79.50, $104.50, $129.50, $154.50 and $179.50

Gary Numan at Nokia Theater on Sat. Rocktober 23. Tickets on sale now. $28.50

Hot Hot Heat at the Bowery Ballroom on Tues. Sept. 7. Tickets on sale now. $15.

Interpol at the United Palace Theater on Fri. Nov. 5. Tickets on sale now. $40.

Other items:

Thoughts and prayers go out to the family & friends of Pete Quaife, one of the original founding members of The Kinks who passed away at the age of 66. He played on “You Really Got Me” in 1964 and then a car accident forced him to leave the band in 1966. He eventually came back but was replaced in 1969.

Gregg Allman underwent a successful liver transplant in Jacksonville FL this week. Allman who suffers from hepatitis C is expected to back with the band soon.

Sammy Hagar will release a memoir in 2011 about his life as a solo artist as well as his eleven years with Van Halen which will include some “behind the scene” stories about David Lee Roth and the break-up with Eddie and the boys. And then of course his break-up with Eddie. Should be an interesting read.

The Black Crowes will release-“Croweology”-on Tuesday Aug. 3 and it will feature 20 of their best known hits as well as songs picked by the band themselves that will be re-worked and performed acoustically. They will be on the Jay Leno show that night and then on Jimmy Kimmel the next night to promote the album. They then embark on their final tour for a while as they are taking a hiatus to spend time with their families. If you have never seen this band live you need to check them out on this tour, you never know how long it will be again to see them.

Stone Sour will release their first single-“Say You’ll Haunt Me”- on Tuesday from their upcoming album-“Audio Secrecy”-which is set to drop in September. There is much buzz building on this album as Corey Taylor says the day that he stops making people surprised is the day he retires. The album supposedly has some “pop” mixed in which we know would never enter his other day job-singer for Slipknot. I for one will be on the lookout for “Audio Secrecy.”

Head over to Amazon this week as they are offering most of the Van Halen catalog-mostly with Diamond Dave but some with the Red Rocker-for less than $8 per CD. Now that is a total score. I already have them all so now is your chance to load up on some of the best music ever created. \m/ \m/

My “new” favorite song of the week belongs to Sara Bareilles with her new pop piano driven song-“King of Anything”-this is a very cool song to listen to on a Saturday morning as you are having your cup of coffee (or tea) on the deck on a nice warm summer day. Check it out and I think you will like it very much-very upbeat!!

My other favorite “new” song of the week is-“Misery”- the new single released by Maroon 5 for their upcoming album-“Hands All Over”- which comes out in September. This song is so good and I’ve only listened to it twice and if this is any indication of what’s to come-I am so in. This band is so solid and with Mutt Lange at the controls for this album my gut feeling tells me this will be the best release of 2010.

With the fourth of July coming up this Sunday-I figured I would throw out the Woodstock video of Jimi Hendrix performing the Star Spangled Banner. This is more than 40 years old but still has to be considered one of the best-if not the best- instrumental version of our Country’s song. Check it out: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WCSS1Xy6kfE

Be sure to add some patriotic songs this weekend when you have your cookouts and also thank anyone you know who has served this great country. Last year I purchased a 2-CD collection of some of the best known songs created about our land of opportunity including “This is Our Country” “You’re a Grand Old Flag” and of course the unbelievable –“God Bless America.” These are all phenomenal songs that the whole family can sing along to. Happy Birthday America!!!

Album Review: Thunder and Lightning by Thin Lizzy released on March 3, 1983

About a month ago, I did a review for the new Stone Temple Pilots “debut” album who reunited after being separated from each other for nine years and I stated that this album should be viewed as the “gold standard” for bands that take a hiatus and then decide to make some new material. Well this week I am here to let you all know that the “benchmark” for all bands that release a “final” album will have a high bar to jump because Thin Lizzy “went out on top” with their masterpiece-“Thunder and Lightning.” Now I’m sure there are plenty of other bands who have released fantastic albums as their last hurrah (knowingly or unfortunate circumstances made it their last album) but I bet there aren’t too many people who would mention Thin Lizzy if asked about such a topic (except for those “in the know”). Folks, please get it out of your head that “The Boys are Back in Town” is the only song that this very under-rated band had ever recorded. Don’t get me wrong, I love that song but nothing riles me up more than when I hear things like this band was a “one hit wonder.” For their last album, Phil Lynott-their phenomenal lead singer and bassist, asked the then 23-year old John Sykes to join the band to bring back that heavy guitar driven sound that defined “Tin Lizzie.” (After Thin Lizzy disbanded, Sykes joined Whitesnake and co-wrote many songs on the self-titled release in 1987 which included one of my personal favorites-“Still of the Night”). Sykes obliged and the result is a staggering, hard-rocking melodic production of the heart, soul, blood, sweat and tears of Mr. Lynott and company that recorded this gem knowing that this would be the last stop on their journey to becoming one of the most influential bands to many in the “metal” scene, including the members of Metallica who often site Lizzy as one of their favorites. As I always maintain on this page, the biggest question seems to always be-“What if?” What if Phil were still around today? There are two artists (probably a lot more if I think about it) that quickly come to mind if I were asked the question-“Who would you love to have seen live before they passed away”- my response would be-“Phil Lynott and Bon Scott.” The more that I dig deep into the world of Thin Lizzy the more my eyes are opened to the incredible talent of this man (and of course the rest of his band mates). Folks, please take it from me, this man made some unbelievable songs in his very short life and you can feel his determination through your headphones. So please buy this blazing album and wander off for the next forty minutes as this is nothing short of spectacular.

Is there a better way to start off this album with the scorching title track? I think not. It really hits you “like a hammer.” The furious guitar work sizzles with satisfaction and right off the bat you are head banging at breakneck speed-“like thunder and lightning”-and to boot there is an intense psychedelic keyboard solo that will make you feel like you are on the fastest magic carpet ride ever. I can confirm that this is one of their best songs as Slash has it on his “celebrity” guest list of songs on I-Tunes this week. Folks, if you have never heard this track you are truly missing out, Phil’s vocals are light’s out. “This is the One” kind of reminds me a little bit of Gene Simmons as Lynott’s vocals are “devil like” and I could definitely see Gene putting his “spit” on this one. The songs rocks from start to finish with Brian Downey pounding away consistently on the drums to keep your head in constant motion and when the dueling guitar solos come into play-well you just have to do the Wayne’s World “We are not Worthy” bow as they have to get your attention on how great this band is (was). “The Sun goes Down” was technically their last single released and it is beautiful song that makes you drift off as Phil had this knack of making you realize that he could really sing as his vocals are spot on. Think of those metal bands who take it down and you wonder how they can make those songs, well this is the same thing. The more you listen to this track, the more it will engulf you and you won’t even realize that more than six minutes has passed. This is a “beauty.” The last song on side one is “The Holy War” and this was one of the songs co-written with Sykes as you could definitely hear that concrete Whitesnake sound in this track. The song starts off with a killer bass line by Lynott and also has that “1980’s type” guitar solo that seemed to define many of the MTV videos back in the days but this is before the “hair-bands” (like Whitesnake) made it big. This is heavy melodic rock that should be played on rock stations across the U.S. as many times as “The Boys are Back” because it is that good. “We are chosen… we are one…we are frightened… of no one.” And of course for good measure as many of a metal song has-that secret voice talking in the background as the band belts out the chorus-“We are chosen..” \m/ \m/

Side two starts off with a very cool guitar rift as the juices get flowing again as Mr. Lynott’s vocals rock out like no other song he has done-“Cold Sweat.” How these guys are not mentioned as often as one of the best hard-rocking bands ever is beyond me, except for “those in the know”, they know what I am talking about. I’m trying to spread the word to the general public-you. I’ll put up “Cold Sweat” to any song you want to throw at me and believe me; this will stand nose to nose with the best of them. “Cold Sweat” will make you sweat as you will be air-guitaring and head-banging all over the place. This is the perfect song for those garage bands just starting out-learn this and you will get noticed very fast. “Some Day She is Going to Hit Back” has that “traditional” Lizzy sound to it (for me anyway) as you will be singing this song all day once it gets into your blood stream. There is another phenomenal keyboard solo which of course leads into a roaring guitar solo as all along Phil’s vocals are singing “some day she is going hit back” in the background. Excellent composition. “Baby Please Don’t Go” starts off a bit slow but once you jump in the saddle, the song takes off and you will be off your seat in no time either dancing around or banging your head up and down making believe you are playing guitar to this fast moving melody. Again the guitar solo is out of this world. Do you want an album filled with unbelievable guitar work? Do you need it? Look no further than this bad boy. This is a finger snapping or knee snapping tune that will keep you yearning for more. Then it’s on to my favorite track on the album-“Bad Habits”-I absolutely can listen to this song all day long. This is rock and roll at its best. If you look up the phrase-“rock and roll”- in the dictionary you just might read the words-“See-Bad Habits- by Thin Lizzy.” Just picture a warm summer day-like this whole week has been in the NY area-when you were a kid and had so much free time before that ugly word-“work”-appeared before you knew it. Remember that? Puts a smile on your face, right? This is that song!!!! The last song on this terrific album is the fabulous-“Heart Attack”- which ends the album just the way it started off-in a “blaze of glory.” It’s a song that deals with the pain of losing a girlfriend and you know those songs are always good, right? (Just go with it) Anyway, Thin Lizzy had this way of mixing perfect background vocals with guitar licks and with the great drumming-these songs just “bounce” along and make you realize that this band is super talented. You will ask the famous question-“Where have they been all my life?” Just waiting for you and I am here to prod you along to give it a chance.

“Thunder and Lightning” was the last hurrah for the band named Thin Lizzy (they are still together today but obviously with different members but the name remains the same) and it was released with little fan fare as the lineup changes were too numerous to keep up with and Phil was having his share of issues but they grabbed the bull by the horns for this album. This is comparable to their earlier albums which defined their “double-lead” guitar sound and has to rank up as one of their finest efforts. Phil’s vocals are crisp and the musicianship is super tight throughout. Folks please take my word, if you are a fan of rock and roll, hard rock or metal- you will absolutely love this album. It’s been a long time since Phil left us but his music lives on forever. \m/ \m/

“TOP TEN”:

Recently my schedule has been very hectic and I wasn’t able to do the page for the week ending on June 25 and I was almost not going to do the blog this week again because of my schedule but luckily my boys are now out of school and my oldest son offered to pitch in and help. Now I believe that I did my own top ten songs for Alice in Chains about a year or so ago but my son has really dived into their library and wanted to put down his top ten songs by Alice in Chains. Here are his thoughts on one of his favorite bands:

Alice In Chains is one of those bands that are like a necessity in my life. (Other bands or singers include John Mayer, Nirvana, Stevie Ray Vaughan, and a few others) Sometimes I just need them to get through the day. Anyway there are a few reasons why AIC is one of my favorite bands from the 90’s (they are very close to surpassing Nirvana). Two of the biggest reasons are Layne Staley’s phenomenal vocal ability and the band’s songwriting skills. I don’t think there is a band out there that has written as personal and great songs as Alice In Chains has. Layne Staley was truly one of a kind and one of the greatest singers and writers in rock and roll history. Jerry Cantrell is one the most underrated guitarists in rock, he deserves a lot more credit as a guitarist, writer, and as a singer than he gets.AlC’s music means a lot to me personally. So many of their songs have spoken to me and have affected me deeply. It’s a shame Layne is no longer with us and he will never be forgotten because his songs have touched so many individuals including myself.

Now since Layne is no longer with us AIC is continuing its legacy with singer William Duvall. Although I know many fans disapprove of the band continuing without Layne I have to say that personally I’m okay with it. Even though Layne can never be replaced I give props to Duvall because he is an excellent vocalist and is doing really well as the band’s lead vocalist. AIC will never be as good as it was with Layne but I think all the band members know and accept this but this doesn’t mean that they have to stop making music. Because they are still making great music, the new album “Black Gives Way to Blue” is fantastic! Every song is just great; it’s their most consistent album since “Dirt.” Look at AC/DC they still carried on after Bon Scott’s death and recorded one of the greatest comeback albums of all time, “Back In Black.”So they are proof that AIC can go on continue their legacy as one of the greatest alternative rock bands of all time.

Picking only ten songs by Alice In Chains was quite a challenge and I had a lot of songs that I love that didn’t make the list. Even though their library of songs isn’t very big with only 4 albums (3 with Layne and 1 with Duvall) and 2 EP’s picking 10 songs was more difficult than expected. Two songs that I wanted to include but couldn’t simply because it’s not really AIC, it’s Layne in the side project “Mad Season”, were “Wake Up” and “River of Deceit.” Both of these songs are autobiographical, touching songs written by Layne. These would have been high on my list had they been by Alice In Chains. Any fan should own those songs because they are some of Layne’s most powerful songs ever. Here are some close cuts by AIC that almost made the list: “Sea of Sorrow”, “Brother”, “Angry Chair”, “We Die Young”, and “Them Bones.”

10.     Frogs – If you asked me about this song a few months ago I would tell you that it is one of Alice’s worst songs. I was never fond of their final studio album (with Layne) “Alice In Chains” but slowly its growing on me. It’s an extremely difficult record to listen to but eventually it will click and you will realize the beauty in it. Even so I do believe it’s their weakest record, it doesn’t compare well to “Dirt”, “Facelift”, or “Jar of Flies”, but despite this it is still a pretty good album that any fan should own. Frogs is one of those songs that hits you right in the heart. The lyrics are very powerful especially as Layne belts out “Why’s it have to be this way?” you can really feel his pain. The Unplugged performance might be slightly better because Layne does the spoken ending parts better but I love both the original and the Unplugged. This is definitely one of the most underrated AIC songs

9.     Black Gives Way to Blue – It was very difficult for me to add this song to my top ten list for the obvious reason that it is post Layne Staley AIC. For me Layne is what made the band great (although I do appreciate the other member’s contributions because they are fantastic musicians as well). So having an AIC song without Layne in the band on my top 10 was very conflicting but I had to stay true to myself and pick this as number nine because in all honesty I love this song a lot. The song is very beautiful and Jerry sings it himself along with Sir Elton John playing piano. The lyrics are so good and Jerry’s passion gets me every time. Jerry pours his heart out for his fallen comrade in this tribute to the great Layne Staley. “Tomorrow’s haunted by your ghost, lay down black gives way to blue, lay down I’ll remember you.”

8.     Would? – Talk about a cool bass line to start off such a great song. This is the perfect closer for the classic album “Dirt.” I love the concept of this song; the line “so I made a big mistake, try to see it once my way” is really powerful. One of the reasons I love this band so much is because of the great lyrics and that particular line has a lot of meaning. This song has the best ending when Layne yells “If I would? Could you?”

7.     I Stay Away – This is a different sound for the generally metal/grunge Alice In Chains music. What I love about this song is that AIC stretches its musical boundaries and boldly adds a string section to this song. This is why I love “Jar of Flies” so much, because AIC stretches itself making its music more diverse. Jar of Flies is clearly their best album because of this musical change and “I Stay Away” is a key song on that magnificent album.

6.     Rotten Apple – I always used to dislike this song and would often swear it’s the only filler on “Jar of Flies.”When I first started listening to the album I would just start it with “Nutshell” and skip this song all together.I now realize the beauty of this song. The lyrics are extremely powerful and I find myself humming this song all day long. I guess I just needed to let it grow on me, which is true for a lot of music. Aside from the lyrics and vocals I also love the guitar licks at the end of the song. The sound is so slick and smooth; it’s just so cool to listen to.

5.     Down in a Hole (Unplugged Version) – Although I love the original version on “Dirt” I think the MTV Unplugged version has a lot more passion in it. Layne, who was visibly weak and sick from his drug use, gave it his all in the eerily beautiful MTV performance. The is one of those songs that show how helpless Layne really was and hearing him sing this powerful song can be very saddening especially now that he is gone.

4.     Dirt – Ok here is my “sludging guitar song” that AIC is so famous for. Only true fans will know this hidden gem on the album with the same name.I don’t really know why I like this song so much; it’s one of the first few songs on “Dirt” that I listened to and immediately knew it would be one of my favorites. It was my favorite AIC song for a long time but things have changed obviously since its number four. What I love about this song is Layne’s raw emotion; I love the way he puts emphasis on just the right words throughout the song. Such a great raw song.

3.     Don’t Follow – This is without a doubt one of the most special AIC songs ever recorded. It is so different from their usual sound; it’s very refreshing to listen to. I love how it’s a little bluesy with the harmonica and with the bridge. Jerry Cantrell sings this so well and is probably one of his best vocals on any song. My favorite part is when Layne comes in for the bridge; it blows my mind every time I hear it. I love it when he suddenly screams “Scared to death!” it gives me chills every time. It’s definitely one of their best songs.

2.     Love, Hate, Love – I am completely blown away every single time I hear this magnificent song.I came across this song on YouTube when I was searching for AIC songs and gave it a listen. The video was a live performance and in the video Layne was so young and was in his prime as a singer. Layne was hitting high notes I didn’t think were even possible to hit. His voice was so magnificent, so flawless it left me staring at the scream in awe.I couldn’t help but think about what a shame it is that a man with so much talent died so young. Layne poured his soul out in this song and it gives me chills every time I hear it. Watch and understand: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l9jX1KAKp78

1.     Nutshell – It’s kind of hard to explain how much this song means to me. Whenever I play this song I’m completely mesmerized. Written solely by Layne this truly is his magnum opus as a writer, and it’s his most personal song in my opinion. Without a doubt I honestly believe it’s one of the greatest songs ever written and recorded. This is such an emotional song; Layne is just pouring his heart out for all to hear. All his pain and suffering is in this song and this emotional power is what makes the song so special. Sometimes everyone feels alone, like no one can help them and this is really what the song is about. It’s about those moments when you feel completely helpless as a person. Although later you will realize that you don’t “fight the battle all alone” and that there is always someone there for you. Unfortunately I don’t think that Layne ever realized this, if he did he would probably be with us today. This song means so much to me and it’s definitely one of my all time favorite songs. For me this song is Layne’s gift to everyone and I’m sure that it’s touched so many other people besides me. Although Layne is gone songs like these will stand the test of time and never be forgotten.

Trivia Questions

Answers from last week:

1.     Collective Soul

2.     William Broad

3.     Robert Palmer

4.     Bad Company

This week’s trivia (Random)-

1.     David Coverdale is the lead singer of White Snake, what band did he front in the 1970’s?

2.     True or False: INXS is looking for a lead singer

3.     True or False: Donna Summer sang back up for Three Dog Night

4.     Who sings “Caribbean Queen?”

Name That Tune

Answers from last week:

1.     “Have You Really Ever Loved a Woman”- Bryan Adams

2.     “Nuthin’ But a G Thang”-Dr. Dre and Snoop Dogg

3.     “She Talks to Angels”-Black Crowes

4.     “Stand By Me” –Ben E. King

Can you guess the title from the following lyrics from part of the song?

1.     “…Then I knew (I knew…I knew…I knew…I knew)…she could make me happy (happy…happy)… (She could make me happy)…”

2.     “…Someone told me long ago…there’s a calm before the storm…I know…it’s been coming for some time…”

3.     “…In violent times you shouldn’t have to sell your soul…in black and white, they really, really ought to know…those one track minds that took you for a working boy…”

4.     “…I can’t have it all…now I’m dancing for my life…take your passion and make it happen…pictures come alive…you can dance right through your life…”

Back on this Day .

Back on this day in 1955, the Lawrence Welk show premiered on ABC TV.

Back on this day in 1962, Jimi Hendrix was honorably discharged from the U.S. Army due to medical reasons as he broke his ankle on a parachute jump.

Back on this day in 1991, Axl Rose incited a riot in St. Louis MO after he spotted a person illegally recording their Guns & Roses performance and jumped into the audience to get the guy; I guess you all know what happened next-the show was canceled and a riot ensued. It was part of what Axl did back then as this happened more than once (where the show was just be canceled because he was pissed about something).

Back on this day in 2001, Liverpool named its airport after one of its native sons’- Mr. John Lennon.

If it is your birthday today you share the same birth date with Roy Bittan (E-Street Band) and Johnny Colla (Huey Lewis & The News)