This day in music history

1968, Frankie Lymon was found dead at his mother's house in New York of a suspected drug overdose, he was 25.

1970, In an interview with the New Musical Express, Fleetwood Mac's Peter Green talked about his plans to give all his money away. The following year Green confronted his accountant with a gun after he sent him an unwanted royalty check. The guitarist went to jail briefly before being transferred to an asylum and was committed to a mental hospital in 1973. He re- launched his career in the 90's.

1970, Simon and Garfunkel started a six week run at the top of the US singles chart with 'Bridge Over Troubled Water', also No.1 in the UK in March the same year.

1974, Singer songwriter Bobby Bloom shot himself dead in the head at his Hollywood apartment aged 28. Bloom had the 1970 US No.8 & UK No.3 single 'Montego Bay'.

1977, Ray Charles was attacked by a member of his audience who tried to strangle him with a rope.

1982, Thin Lizzy guitarist Scott Gorham collapsed during the bands European tour suffering from heroin withdrawal.

1984, Michael Jackson won a record seven Grammy awards including: Album of the year for 'Thriller'; Record of the year and Best rock vocal performance for ‘Beat It’; Best pop vocal performance, Best R&B performance and Best R&B song for ‘Billie Jean’, and Best Recording For Children for E.T The Extra Terrestrial.

1985, David Byron, singer with Uriah Heep died from an epileptic fit and liver disease aged 38. Had a hit with ‘Easy Livin' from the 1972 album Demons and Wizards.

1986, George Michael announced that Wham! would officially split during the summer.

1996, Grammy award winners included Alanis Morissette who won album of the year for 'Jagged Little Pill' best female rock vocal & best song for 'You Oughta Know', Nirvana's 'Unplugged won best alternative album and Coolio best rap performance with 'Gangsta's Paradise.'

2008, Arctic Monkeys won three prizes, including best British band at this year's NME Awards held at the O2 in London. The band's single ‘Fluorescent Adolescent’ won them best track and they won best video for ‘Teddy Picker.’ Best album went to Klaxons for Myths of the Near Future while Kate Nash won best solo artist. Muse were presented with the best live band award and US group The Killers took best international act. The Manic Street Preachers, who performed at the ceremony, were awarded the NME's Godlike Genius honour and Babyshambles frontman Pete Doherty was voted hero of the year. Britney Spears's Blackout was voted worst album and The Hoosiers were named worst band.

2008, Drummer Buddy Miles, who played with Jimi Hendrix in his last regular group, Band of Gypsys, died aged 60 at his home in Austin, Texas after struggling with a long-term illness. Born George Allen Miles in Omaha, Nebraska, Buddy's nickname was a tribute to his idol, jazz drummer Buddy Rich. Rich also played with The Delfonics, The Ink Spots, Wilson Pickett, Electric Flag, Stevie Wonder, David Bowie, Muddy Waters and Barry White.

1942, Born on this day, Brian Jones, guitar, Rolling Stones, (1966 UK & US No.1 single 'Paint It Black', plus 5 other UK No.1 singles and 3 UK No.1 albums). Jones died on July 3rd 1969 after drowning in his swimming pool under the influence of alcohol and drugs.

1943, Donnie Iris, guitar, Wild Cherry, (1976 US No.1 & UK No.7 single 'Play That Funky Music').

1945, Born on this day, Ronnie Rosman, Tommy James & The Shondells, (1966 US No.1 single 'Hanky Panky', 1968 UK No.1 single 'Mony Mony').

1957, Born on this day, Cindy Wilson, The B-52's, (1990 UK No.2 & US No.3 single 'Love Shack').
1957, Born on this day, Ian Stanley, keyboards, Tears For Fears, (1985 US No.1 & UK No.2 single 'Everybody Wants To Rule The World').

1966, Born on this day, Ian Brown, vocals, The Stone Roses, (1989 UK No.8 single 'Fool's Gold', 1989 album 'The Stone Roses'). Solo, (1998 UK No.5 single 'My Star').

"Blind" Willie Johnson - Dark Was The Night

"Blind" Willie Johnson (January 22, 1897 – September 18, 1945) was an American singer and guitarist whose music straddled the border between blues and spirituals.
While the lyrics of all of his songs were religious, his music drew from both sacred and blues traditions.

Texas blues musicians were known for big, expressive voices, but perhaps none more so than Blind Willie Johnson, a preacher and street musician who sang gospel music with a decidedly blues feel.

Johnson endured almost unfathomable hardships in his life: he was blinded by his stepmother, who threw lye in his face as a child; and he subsequently spent his entire life in poverty before dying of pneumonia one winter while living in the ashes of his burned-down house. But despite his troubles, his faith remained strong and compelled him to make some of the most incredible music ever recorded.

“Dark Was The Night (...Cold Was The Ground) was recorded in 1928 and has no words in the song, just Johnson’s amazing slide guitar and impassioned moaning. It is utterly mesmerizing, and one of the most emotionally charged performances you will ever hear.

Johnson was one of the first great slide guitarists, using a piece of metal (in Johnson’s case, probably a knife) held against the strings to alter the guitar’s pitch mid-note. Here, he makes the notes sing and cry with the same stirring passion as his voice. Combined, it makes for an unbelievable, otherworldly experience.

The song title derives from an 18th century hymn which begins with the lines "Dark was the night, and cold the ground / On which the Lord was laid".

In 1977, it was included in a collection of sounds and music for the Voyager spacecraft (the Voyager Golden Record) to represent Earth and the human experience to any other life forms in the universe.

John Lee Hooker - Boogie Chillen

John Lee Hooker (August 22, 1917 – June 21, 2001) was an American blues singer-songwriter and guitarist, born near Clarksdale, Mississippi.

Hooker rose to prominence performing his own unique style of what was originally closest to Delta blues . He developed a 'talking blues' style that was his trademark.
Though similar to the early Delta blues, his music was metrically free.

John Lee Hooker could be said to embody his own unique genre of the blues, often incorporating the boogie-woogie piano style and a driving rhythm into his masterful and idiosyncratic blues guitar and singing.

He maintained a solo career, popular with blues and folk music fans of the early 1960s and crossed over to white audiences, giving an early opportunity to the young Bob Dylan.

As he got older, he added more and more people to his band, changing his live show from simply Hooker with his guitar to a large band, with Hooker singing.

Though Hooker lived in Detroit during most of his career, he is not associated with the Chicago-style blues prevalent in large northern cities, as much as he is with the southern rural blues styles, known as delta blues, country blues, folk blues, or "front porch blues".

His songs have been covered by numerous artists as Cream, AC/DC, ZZ Top, Led Zeppelin, Tom Jones, Jimi Hendrix, Eric Clapton, Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds, Van Morrison, The Yardbirds, The Animals, The Doors, The White Stripes, MC5

He inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1991. Two of his songs, "Boogie Chillen" and "Boom Boom" were named to the list of The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame's 500 Songs that Shaped Rock and Roll.

"Boogie Chillen",released in 1948, was included as one of the Songs of the Century.

Muddy Waters - I Can’t Be Satisfied

McKinley Morganfield (April 4, 1913 – April 30, 1983), known as Muddy Waters, was an American blues musician, generally considered the Father of modern Chicago blues.

A major inspiration for the British blues explosion in the 1960s, Muddy was ranked #17 in Rolling Stone magazine's list of the 100 Greatest Artists of All Time.

His influence is tremendous, over a variety of music genres: blues, rhythm and blues, rock 'n' roll, hard rock, folk, jazz, and country. He also helped Chuck Berry get his first record contract.

His 1958 tour of England marked possibly the first time modern urban blues was heard there. The Rolling Stones named themselves after his 1950 song "Rollin' Stone", (also known as "Catfish Blues", which Jimi Hendrix covered as well).
Hendrix recalled "the first guitar player I was aware of was Muddy Waters. I first heard him as a little boy and it scared me to death".

On April 30, 1983 Muddy Waters died in his sleep, at his home in Westmont, Illinois.

Following Waters' death, fellow blues musician B.B. King (who was hugely influenced by Waters) told ,"It's going to be years and years before most people realize how greatly he contributed to American music".

“I Can’t Be Satisfied” was released in 1948 and perhaps the best of his early recordings. Its sound is not that far removed from the delta blues Waters grew up with and, the electric guitar apart, mimics the same raw and uncut sound of the untutored and self-taught blues musicians.

Together with Chess in-house bassist and songwriter, Willie Dixon, a number of similar classics emerged from Waters’ guitar and ultimately changed the face of music forever.

This day in music history

1961, Cubby Checker started a three week run at No.1 on the US singles chart with 'Pony Time', his second No.1 of the 60's. It reached No.27 in the UK.

1964, 21 year-old former hairdresser and cloakroom attendant at The Cavern club Cilla Black was at No.1 on the UK singles chart with 'Anyone Who Had A Heart.' Written by Bacharach and David it was Black's first UK No.1. Also this week's UK Top Ten was the first ever to feature only UK acts.

1964, The Rolling Stones made their second appearance on BBC TV show Top Of The Pops performing ‘Not Fade Away.’

1967, Pink Floyd recorded their first single 'Arnold Layne', with producer Joe Boyd at Sound Techniques studio in Chelsea, England.

1971, Five months after her death, Janis Joplin started a nine-week run at No.1 on the US album chart with 'Pearl.'

1974, Cher filed for divorce from Sonny Bono. Cher married Gregg Allman from The Allman Brothers band on 27th June 1975.

1980, Winners at the Grammy Awards included: song of the year, 'What A Fool Believes', The Doobie Brothers, album of the year, Billy Joel's '52nd St', best new artist, Rickie Lee Jones, best disco record, 'I Will Survive' Gloria Gaynor.

1988, George Michael scored his sixth No.1 US single with 'Father Figure' a No. 11 hit in the UK.

1993, After 14 weeks at No.1 on the US singles chart, 'I Will Always Love You', gave Whitney Houston the longest ever US chart topper, taking over from Boyz II Men's hit 'End Of The Road', and became the second biggest selling single in the US.

1999, Britney Spears started a two-week run at No.1 on the UK singles chart with '...Baby One More Time'. It became the biggest UK selling single of the year and also a No.1 in the US. It was originally written for TLC but the song was submitted after completion of their third record, FanMail.

2005, Manchester band Doves scored their second UK No.1 album when ‘Some Cities’ went to the top of the charts.

2005, Ray Charles was at No.1 on the US album chart with 'Genius Loves Company.'

2010, U2 raked in more money than any other music act in the US in 2009 making $109m (£71m) from touring, record sales and other royalties, almost twice as much as the second best, Bruce Springsteen who took home $58m (£38m), followed by Madonna with $47m (£31m) and AC/DC with $44m (£29m). Coldplay were the most successful British group, at number eight, with takings of $27m (£18m).

1927, Born on this day, Guy Mitchell, US singer (1957 UK & US No.1 single ‘Singing
The Blues’ plus over ten other UK Top 40 singles). Mitchell died on July 1st 1999.

1948, Born on this day, Eddie Gray, Tommy James and the Shondells, (1966 US No.1 single 'Hanky Panky', 1968 UK No.1 single 'Mony Mony').

1955, Born on this day, Gary Christian, The Christians, (1988 UK No.8 single 'Harvest For The World').

1957, Born on this day, Adrian Smith, Iron Maiden, (1982 UK No.1 album 'The Number Of The Beast', 1991 UK No.1 single 'Bring Your Daughter To The Slaughter').

1960, Born on this day, Paul Humphreys, Orchestral Manoeuvres In The Dark, (1984 UK No.5 single 'Locomotion').

1965, Born on this day, David Boulter, keyboards, Tindersticks, (1993 album 'Tindersticks').

1981, Born on this day, Josh Groban, US singer, (2002 US No.7 & UK No.28 album ‘Josh Groban’, 2004 US No.1 album 'Closer'). America's top selling artist of 2007.

Cat's Eyes - Cat's Eyes

Cat's Eyes are a duo formed by Rachel Zeffira, a Canadian opera soprano and classical multi-instrumentalist based in london, and Faris Badwan, the singer from British psychedelic-rockers the Horrors.

In the collision of their two very separate worlds, something magical has come into being.

Cat's Eyes first live appearance took place in December 2010, amid some secrecy, at St Peter's in the vatican, where they performed a reworked version of their song 'i knew it was over' during an afternoon mass attended by several high-ranking cardinals.

Cat's Eyes eponymous debut album is a romantic pop masterpiece fit to dine at the same table as mid-'60s productions by phil spector, joe meek or shadow morton, but with a fiercely modern, experimental premise, which constantly leaves you wondering just what you're listening to, and how on earth it was created.

Ahead of the album, the debut release from Cat's Eyes is the 'Broken Glass EP' which will be realesed on 27th of March 2011 and includes the self-titled single.




..and one more...

Laura Marling - Devil's Spoke

Laura Beatrice Marling (born 1 February 1990) is a folk singer-songwriter from Eversley in Hampshire, England. Initially prominent within the London folk scene, she has also toured with a number of well-known indie artists in the UK.

Her sound is characterized by striking melodies and poetic lyricism.

Her debut album Alas, I Cannot Swim and her second album I Speak Because I Can have been nominated for the Mercury Music Prize in 2008 and 2010 respectively.

She won Best Female Solo Artist at the 2011 Brit Awards.

"I Speak Because I Can", was released on 22 March 2010. Produced by Ethan Johns, the album has a more mature sound and lyricism, dealing with "responsibility, particularly the responsibility of womanhood.

Back-up vocals are provided throughout the album by Marcus Mumford, the lead singer and guitarist of London based folk band Mumford & Sons. These are especially prevalent on the tracks "Hope in the Air" and "I Speak Because I Can".

The album was preceded by the singles "Goodbye England (Covered in Snow)", released on iTunes in December 2009 and "Devil's Spoke" on 15 March 2010.

On 28 March 2010, I Speak Because I Can entered the UK Albums Chart at Number 4. It was also nominated for the 2010 Mercury Music Prize.

Foals - Spanish Sahara

Foals are an indie rock band from Oxford, England. Their musical style can be linked to various genres such as indie rock, dance-punk, math rock, post-punk and techno.

The band’s members are Yannis Philippakis (Vocals, Guitar, Live Drums), Jack Bevan (Drums),Jimmy Smith (Guitar), Edwin Congreave (Keyboard, Backing Vocals), Walter Gervers (Bass, Backing Vocals)

Their debut album Antidotes was released in 2008 in the UK and was a commercial success in the United Kingdom, debuting at #3 in the UK Albums Charts.
The album was a minor success in other countries, charting in Japan, France and the Netherlands.

The band's second album, Total Life Forever, was released on the 10 May 2010. It was nominated for 2010 Mercury Prize.
The album was nominated for the 2010 Mercury Prize.The band was also nominated for five NME awards, including best British band, best live band, best album, best track and best album artwork.

"Spanish Sahara" is the first song released from Foals' second album Total Life Forever. It was premiered on 1 March 2010, on BBC's Radio 1 and peaked at number 148 on the UK Singles Chart.

The song was number one in the NME top 50 songs of the year 2010. In 2011, it was also nominated for an NME Award for best song.

This day in music history

1955, Billboard reported that for the first time since their introduction in 1949, 45rpm singles were outselling the old standard 78's.

1958, Perry Como was at No.1 on the UK singles chart with 'Magic Moments' the 2nd No.1 in a row for writers Burt Bacharach and Hal David. It stayed at No.1 for eight weeks.

1966, Nancy Sinatra went to No.1 on the US singles chart with 'These Boots Are Made For Walking', also a UK No.1.

1966, The Beatles 'Rubber Soul' was at No.1 on the US album chart, the group's seventh US album chart topper.

1977, The Eagles went to No.1 on the US singles chart with 'New Kid On Town', the group's third US No.1, a No.20 hit n the UK.

1980, After seeing U2 play at Dublin's National Boxing Stadium in front of 2,400 people; Rob Partridge and Bill Stewart from Island Records in the UK offered the band a recording contract.

1983, Michael Jackson's 'Thriller' went to No.1 on the US album chart. It went on to become the most successful album of all time with sales over 50 million copies.

1984, Frankie Goes To Hollywood were enjoying their fourth week at the top of the UK singles chart with 'Relax.'

1990, Sinead O'Connor was at No.1 on the UK singles chart with 'Nothing Compares 2 U.' Her version of the Prince penned song was also a No.1 hit in 18 other countries.

2001, Winners at the Brit Awards included Coldplay, Best British group and Best British album for 'Parachutes', Robbie Williams, Best British Male artist and Best single for 'Rock DJ', Sonique, Best British Female artist, Best Dance act went to Fat Boy Slim, A1 won Best British Newcomer, Westlife won Best Pop act, Eminem won Best International Male solo artist and U2 won Outstanding contribution to music.

1928, Born on this day, Fats Domino, (Antoine Domino), singer, pianist, bandleader, songwriter. 1957 US No.6 & UK No.6 single 'Blueberry Hill' and 35 other US Top 40 singles.

1932, Born on this day, Johnny Cash, US country singer/songwriter who had a 1969 US No.2 & UK No.4 single with ‘A Boy Named Sue’ plus 11 other US Top 40 singles). He had a US TV Johnny Cash show in the late 60s–early 70s. Cash died of respiratory failure on September 12th 2003, aged 71.

1945, Born on this day, Bob The Bear Hite, vocalist and harmonica player with Canned Heat, (1968 US No.11 single with ‘Going Up The Country’ and a 1970 UK No.2 single with ‘Let’s Work Together’). He died on April 5th 1981.

1947, Born on this day, Sandie Shaw, singer, (1964 UK No.1 single 'There's Always Something There To Remind Me', plus 15 other UK Top 40 singles). First UK act to win the Eurovision Song Contest with 1967, 'Puppet On A String.'

1953, Born on this day, Michael Bolton, singer, (1990 US No.1 & UK No.3 single 'How Am I Supposed To Live Without You').

1960, Born on this day, Jaz Coleman, Killing Joke, (1985 UK No.16 single 'Love Like Blood').

1968, Born on this day, Tim Commerford, bass, Rage Against The Machine, (1996 US No.1 album 'Evil Empire'). Audioslave (2005 US No.1 album 'Out of Exile').

1979, Born on this day, Corinne Bailey Rae, UK singer, songwriter, (2006 UK No. 2 single ‘Put Your Records On', 2006 self-titled UK No.1 album). She is only the fourth female British act in history to have her first album debut at No.1 on the UK chart.

Dave Lombardo

Dave Lombardo (born February 16, 1965 in Havana, Cuba) is a Cuban American heavy metal drummer best known for his work with American thrash metal band Slayer.


He has performed with Slayer on seven albums, including their groundbreaking1986 release Reign In Blood and their 2006 release Christ Illusion, for which he received critical praise.


Lombardo is known as an aggressive heavy metal drummer and his use of the drums have been called "astonishingly innovative" and earned him the title "the godfather of double bass" from Drummer World.

Over his career, he has had a significant influence on the metal scene and has inspired many modern metal drummers.


Lombardo's music career has spanned more than 25 years, during which he has been involved in the production of 29 commercial recordings spanning a number of major genres with bands such as Grip Inc., Fantômas, and Testament in addition to Slayer.

Mike Portnoy

Michael Stephen "Mike" Portnoy is an American drummer primarily known as the former drummer, backing vocalist, and co-founder of the progressive metal band Dream Theater.

He was born on April 20, 1967 and raised in Long Beach, New York, where his interest in music started at an early age. "My father was a rock n' roll disc jockey, so I was always surrounded by music constantly. I had this huge record collection when I was real young and loved the Beatles and then later on Kiss. It was inevitable that I'd become a musician."

Although Mike taught himself how to play the drums, he did take music theory classes in high school. During that time he began playing in local bands Intruder, Rising Power and Inner Sanctum, the latter of which released their own album. Mike left the band after being awarded a scholarship to attend Berklee Music College in Boston.

Known for his drumming prowess and technical skill, Portnoy has won 23 awards from the Modern Drummer magazine. He has co-produced the last six Dream Theater albums.

He is the second youngest person (after Neil Peart) to be inducted into the Modern Drummer's Hall of Fame (at 37 years of age).

Mike says his biggest influences are Rush drummer Neil Peart and the late Frank Zappa. Other favorites include drummers Terry Bozzio, Vinnie Colaiuta, Simon Philips, John Bonham and Keith Moon and bands such as The Beatles, Queen, Yes, Metallica, Jellyfish, Iron Maidon, U2 and Jane's Addiction. He is also a fan of rap music.

On September 8, 2010, it was announced that Portnoy had left Dream Theater. Portnoy cited conflicting interests as the reason behind his departure.

On February 3, 2011, Portnoy announced that he has started a new project with Symphony X singer Russell Allen and guitarist Mike Orlando.

Starsailor - Way to Fall (studio & live version)

Starsailor are an English alternative rock band. As of 2009, they have had four charting albums and ten Top 40 singles in the UK since 2001.

The band met whilst studying a music course at Leigh College .Members of the band are James Walsh (singer-guitarist),James Stelfox (bassist),Ben Byrne(drummer),
Barry Westhead (keyboards).

The band’s name comes after the 1970 album Starsailor by Tim Buckley.

Their performance at the Glastonbury Festival added to the band's reputation and led to a bidding war amongst UK record companies.The band signed with EMI, the label that a relative of one band member worked for, in 2000.

"Fever", the band's first single, was released in early 2001. March 2001 saw the band sell out their first UK Tour, which consisted of eleven dates in England. The original release date of their debut album was August 2001.

The album Love Is Here reached number 2 in the UK album charts in October 2001, after receiving great critical acclaim.
Combining a mix of acoustic guitar and Walsh's beautiful vocals, critics said the songs leave the "hairs on the back of your neck standing.

The year ended with the band winning the "Brightest New Hope" award at the NME Awards,

Their other albums are : Silence Is Easy (September 15, 2003) #2 UK ,On the Outside (October 17, 2005) #13 UK All the Plans (March 9, 2009) #26 UK

On November 13, 2009 it was officially announced that Starsailor was on hold and that James Walsh was concentrating on his solo career.

"Way to Fall" is from their first album...

...and was never released as a single...

This day in music history

1956, Elvis Presley had his first national hit when ‘I Forgot To Remember To Forget’ went to No.1 on the Billboard Country & Western chart.

1965, The Seekers were at No.1 on the UK singles chart with 'I'll Never Find Another You', the Australian folk-pop group's first UK No.1.

1977, The Jam signed to Polydor Records UK for £6,000 ($10,200).

1981, Winners at this years Grammy Awards included Bob Seger who won Best Rock performance for 'Against The Wind', Pat Benatar won Best female performance for 'Crimes Of Passion' and Christopher Cross won Best new artist and Best song for 'Sailing.'

1984, The Thompson Twins scored their first UK No.1 album with their third release 'Into The Gap.'

1984, 'Jump', by Van Halen started a five-week run at No.1 on the US singles chart, a No.7 hit in the UK.

1989, Simple Minds were at No.1 on the UK singles chart with 'Belfast Child.' At 6 minutes 39 seconds it became the second-longest running No.1 after The Beatles 'Hey Jude.'

1995, Madonna started a seven week run at No.1 on the US singles chart with 'Take A Bow', the track which was co-written with Babyface became a No.16 hit in the UK.

1995, At a private party for 1,200 select guests on the closing night of the Frank Sinatra Desert Classic golf tournament, Frank Sinatra sang before a live audience for the very last time. His closing song was ‘The Best is Yet to Come.’

2004, The Rolling Stones topped a US Rich List of music’s biggest money makers. The list was based on earnings during 2003 when the band played their “Forty Licks” tour, which made them $212 million, (£124.7m) in ticket, CD, DVD and merchandise sales. The three million fans who went to the shows spent an average of $11 (£6.47) each on merchandise. Bruce Springsteen was listed in second place and The Eagles in third.

2006, The 4th Annual TRL Awards were held in New York City. Madonna won the Lifetime Achievement Award and Bono won the Most Inspired Artist/Humanitarian Award. Other winners included Fall Out Boy, Chris Brown, Mariah Carey, Ashlee Simpson, Kelly Clarkson, Amanda Bynes, and My Chemical Romance.

2007, Kaiser Chiefs went to No.1 on the UK singles with 'Ruby', taken from their second album, Yours Truly, Angry Mob.

2009, President Obama honoured Stevie Wonder, his musical hero, with America's highest award for pop music, the Library of Congress' Gershwin prize at a ceremony at the White House. The president said the Motown legend had been the soundtrack to his youth and he doubted that his wife would have married him if he hadn't been a fan. Wonder’s song ‘Signed, Sealed, Delivered’ had been the theme song during Obama's presidential campaign.

2009, Winners at the 2009 NME Awards, held at London's O2 Academy included Oasis who won best British band, Elbow won the outstanding contribution to British music award. The Killers won best international band and Kings of Leon won best album for "Only by the Night" and The Cure won the godlike genius award.

1943, Born on this day, George Harrison – guitarist and vocalist with The Beatles. The all-time bestselling album in the UK is The Beatles’ Sgt Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band, with over 4.5 million copies sold. Harrison wrote the 1969 US No.1 & UK No.4 Beatles single ‘Something’. As a solo artist he had the 1971 US No.1 album 'All Things Must Pass' and the 1970 worldwide No.1 single ‘My Sweet Lord’. He was also a member of the Traveling Wilburys. Harrison died of cancer on November 29th 2001.

1957, Born on this day, Stewart Wood, Bay City Rollers, (1975 UK No.1 single 'Bye Bye Baby' plus 11 other UK Top 20 singles', 1976 US No.1 single 'Saturday Night').

Neil Peart

Neil Peart (born September 12, 1952) is a Canadian musician and author. He is the drummer and primary lyricist for the rock band Rush.

Early in his career, Peart's performance style was deeply rooted in hard rock. He drew most of his inspiration from drummers such as Keith Moon and John Bonham, players who were at the forefront of the British hard rock scene.

As time passed, however, he began to emulate jazz and big band musicians Gene Krupa and Buddy Rich.
In addition to being a musician, Peart is also a prolific writer, having published several memoirs about his travels.

Peart is consistently ranked as one of the greatest rock drummers by fans, fellow musicians, and magazines, known for his technical proficiency and stamina.

Peart has received the following awards in the Modern Drummer magazine reader's poll for the 80s decade, Most Promising New Drummer: 1980, Best Rock Drummer: from 1980-1986, Best Multi-Percussionist: 1983- 1986

The Psychedelic Furs - Love My Way

The Psychedelic Furs are an English rock band founded in 1977. Led by singer Richard Butler and his brother Tim on bass guitar, the Psychedelic Furs are one of the many acts spawned from the British post-punk scene.

Their music went through several phases, from an initially austere art rock sound, later touching on New Wave and hard rock.

They scored several hits in their early career, but were launched to international attention in 1986 when the film director John Hughes borrowed their song title "Pretty in Pink" for his movie of the same name.

A newly recorded version of the song became the Psychedlic Furs' biggest hit to that time. "Heartbreak Beat", from their 1987 album Midnight to Midnight, was to be the Furs' biggest Top 40 entry in the US.

The Psychedelic Furs went on hiatus in 1991, and the Butler brothers formed a new band called Love Spit Love. The Psychedelic Furs later regrouped in 2001 and continue to perform around the world.

"Love My Way" is a 1982 song by English band The Psychedelic Furs from their third studio album, Forever Now. Written by the four members of the group and produced by Todd Rundgren, the song reached the top 10 of the charts in New Zealand and the top 50 in the United Kingdom and United States.

Allmusic writer Ned Raggett called it "one of the slyest and best singles from the early '80s, a deserved cult hit in the States well-remembered in modern rock circles." Raggett praised the song's "big and crisp" beats provided by drummer Vince Ely, in one of his last credited songs before leaving the group.

A Flock of Seagulls - Wishing (If I Had a Photograph of You)

"Wishing (If I Had a Photograph of You)" is a 1982 New Wave song by A Flock of Seagulls, appearing as the opening performance on their second album Listen.

Its wistful, bleak lyrics on separation are built on a driving rhythm backed by a heavy Wall of Sound-styled layer of synthesizer padding.

In contrast to the band's 1982 hit "I Ran (So Far Away)", which was largely a United States and Australian hit, "Wishing" song peaked strongly in Great Britain, Ireland and in Canada where it reached the Top 10, but only reached #26 on the U.S. Billboard charts.

A Flock of Seagulls - Ran (So Far Away)

A Flock of Seagulls is a British Grammy Award-winning band originally formed by brothers Michael "Mike" Score (keyboards, vocals) and Alister "Ali" James Score (drums), with Frank Maudsley (bass) and Paul Reynolds (guitar).

The group had a string of international hit singles in the 1980s. The band took their name from a line in the song "Toiler on the Sea" by The Stranglers, which appears on their album Black and White.

As it turned out, 1982 would prove to be the peak year of their commercial and critical success. The band is regarded as breaking the ground for other musical acts during the advent of the video music area.

" Ran (So Far Away)" (also released as "I Ran") is a song by English New Wave band A Flock of Seagulls. It was released on their debut album A Flock of Seagulls in 1982 and was its most successful single, reaching number 9 in the United States and number 1 in Australia.

The single was promoted by a distinctive music video in which the band members performed in a room covered in aluminum foil and mirrors. It received heavy rotation on MTV in the summer of 1982, and helped the single to become a hit.

The video features a different edit of "I Ran" than the album version; the introduction was greatly shortened.

The band toured the United States extensively to promote the single, supporting Squeeze on their 1982 tour. As well as reaching #9 on the Billboard Hot 100, "I Ran" peaked at #3 on the Mainstream Rock chart and #8 on the Hot Dance Club Play chart. Subsequently the album reached number 10 on the Billboard 200.

Despite success in the States and Australia, the single did not enjoy similar success in the band's home country (United Kingdom), failing to make the top 40.

In VH1's 100 Greatest One-Hit Wonders of the 80s, the song was listed at #2.

This day in music history

1957, Buddy Holly recorded a new version of 'That'll Be The Day', the title being taken from a phrase used by John Wayne in the film 'The Searchers.'

1969, The Jimi Hendrix Experience played their last ever-British performance when they appeared at the Royal Albert Hall.

1973, Roberta Flack had her second US No.1 when 'Killing Me Softly With His Song', started a five-week run at the top. The song was written about US singer songwriter Don McLean.

1973, The Byrds made their final live appearance when they played at The Capitol Theatre in Passaic, New Jersey.

1976, The Eagles 'Greatest Hits' became the first album to be certified platinum by the R.I.A.A. New certification's represented sales of 1 million copies for albums and two million for singles.

1982, The Police won best British group at the first annual Brit Awards held in London, Adam And The Ants won best album for 'Kings Of The Wild Frontier’, Cliff Richard won British Male Solo Artist, Randy Crawford won British Female Solo Artist, British Breakthrough Act went to The Human League, British Producer was Martin Rushent and Outstanding Contribution went to John Lennon.

1982, Winners at the Grammy Awards included John & Yoko Album of the year with 'Double Fantasy, Kim Carnes for Song of the year with 'Bette Davis Eyes', Quincy Jones won producer of the year and Sheena Easton best new act.

1990, Manchester band The Happy Mondays had six singles on the UK indie chart.

1997, The Spice Girls won best single with 'Wannabe' at this years Brit Awards held in London. Other winners included, Best Group for Manic Street Preachers, Best Dance Act went to The Prodigy, George Michael won Best Male, Best Female went to Gabrielle, Best Newcomer was won by Kula Shaker, International Male was Beck, International Female Sheryl Crow and Best International Group was The Fugees.

2000, Carlos Santana won eight awards at this year Grammy Awards. Before the 'Supernatural' album, the guitarist had not had a Top 10 album since 1981. Sting won two awards, one for best pop album and another for best male pop vocalist. Sir Elton John won the legend award and Phil Collins the best soundtrack award for 'Tarzan'.

2002, Sting started a two-week run at No.1 on the UK album chart with 'Sting, The Very Best Of.'

2004, Estelle Axton, who helped create the legendary US soul music label Stax, died in hospital in Memphis, aged 85. Stax was home to Otis Redding, Rufus Thomas, Isaac Hayes and Booker T and the MG's and the Stax studio, 'Soulsville USA', was second only to Motown in its production of soul hits during its 1960s heyday.

2009, The United States Mint launched a new coin featuring American composer, pianist and bandleader Duke Ellington, making him the first African-American to appear by himself on a US coin.

1942, Born on this day, Paul Jones, singer, harmonica player, actor, radio presenter, Manfred Mann, (1964 UK & US No.1 single 'Do Wah Diddy Diddy), The Blues Band.

Keith Moon

Keith John Moon (23 August 1946 – 7 September 1978) was an English musician, best known for being the drummer of English rock group The Who.

Moon joined The Who in 1964. He played on all albums and singles from their debut, 1964's "Zoot Suit", to 1978's Who Are You, which was released three weeks before his death.

He gained acclaim for his exuberant and innovative drumming style, and notoriety for his eccentric and often self-destructive behaviour, earning him the nickname "Moon the Loon".

Moon was known for dramatic, suspenseful drumming—often eschewing basic back beats for a fluid, busy technique focused on fast, cascading rolls across the toms, ambidextrous double bass drum work and wild cymbal crashes and washes.

He is mentioned in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as one of the greatest of all rock and roll drummers and was posthumously inducted into the Rock Hall as a member of The Who in 1990.

Roger Daltrey said Moon's drumming style held the band together; that Entwistle and Townshend "were like knitting needles... and Keith was the ball of wool."

Many rock drummers have cited Keith Moon as an influence, including Neil Peart,and Dave Grohl.

The Jam paid tribute to Keith Moon on the second single from their third album, "Down in the Tube Station at Midnight", in which the B-side of the single is a cover song from The Who: "So Sad About Us", and the back cover of the record is a photo of Keith Moon's face; The Jam's record was released about a month after Moon's death.

Steve Miller Band - The Joker

Steve Miller Band is an American rock band formed in 1967 in San Francisco, California.

The band is managed by Steve Miller on guitar and lead vocals, consisting of guitarist James Cooke, bassist Lonnie Turner, and drummer Tim Davis (who replaced the departing Lance Haas on drums).Guitarist Boz Scaggs joined the band soon after and the group performed at the Monterey Pop Festival in June.

They have released 28 albums up to now, including live performances and compilations.

“ The Joker “ showed audiences a new style of the band in 1974. The track became a #1 single and was certified platinum for reaching over one million sales.

More than 16 years later, in September 1990, it reached number one in the UK Singles Chart for two weeks after being used in a Levi's television advertisement, thus holding the record for the longest gap between transatlantic chart-toppers.

The song is noted for its wolf whistle played on a slide guitar after the "lovey dovey" parts .

The line, "Some people call me The Space Cowboy" is a reference to Miller's 1969 song "Space Cowboy." The line, "Some call me a gangster of love" is a reference to his song "Gangster of Love."

The line, "Some people call me Maurice" is a reference to Miller's 1972 song "Enter Maurice",while the line "I'm a midnight toker" is a marijuana reference. Many stoners related to this song.

ZZ Top - Blue Jean Blues

ZZ Top is an American rock band, sometimes referred to as "That Little Ol' Band from Texas". Their style, which is rooted from blues-based boogie rock, has come to incorporate elements of arena, Southern, and boogie rock.

The band is from Houston, Texas, formed in 1969. Musician Billy Gibbons and drummer Dan Mitchell, originally in a band called the Moving Sidewalks, got together with bassist Lanier Greig, forming ZZ Top.

In 1969, Greig and Mitchell were replaced by Dusty Hill and Frank Beard from the band American Blues. The band soon began developing a following in Texas.
Their debut album was in 1971, followed by their 1972 album Rio Grande Mud.

In 1973, the band emerged into the mainstream with the album Tres Hombres, and their 1975 follow-up Fandango! expanded on their sound and sense of humor.

By the mid-1970s, they were among the most popular touring acts in the United States and broke various concert attendance feats. After years of touring, the band went on a two-year break in 1977, which resulted in Gibbons and Hill growing chest-length beards.

Although they returned in 1979, it was not until the band released 1983's Eliminator that they reached a new height in popularity, selling over 10 million copies. Throughout the late 1980s, the band made several hits and won several awards for music videos like "Legs" and "Sharp Dressed Man."

After over 40 years of performing with the same members, the band continues to tour and record music.

ZZ Top has sold more than 50 million albums worldwide, including 25 million albums in the US alone. The band scored 8 Top 40 hits on the Billboard Hot 100, six number one Mainstream Rock hits and three MTV Video Music Awards.

They were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2004.

Blue Jean Blues is a song from the album Fandango! in 1975

This day in music history

1961, Petula Clark had her first UK No.1 single with 'Sailor'. During her career the former child actress achieved a total of 20 UK Top 40 hits and 2 US No.1 singles.

1972, After nearly five years of marriage, Priscilla Presley moved out of Elvis' California home and into a two bedroom apartment near the Pacific Ocean. Their divorce would be finalized on October 9, 1973, with Priscilla being awarded an outright cash payment of $725,000 as well as spousal support, child support, 5% of Elvis' new publishing companies and half the income from the sale of their Beverly Hills home.

1974, Suzi Quatro was at No.1 on the UK singles chart with 'Devil Gate Drive', the singers second UK No.1 and fourth No.1 for the songs writers Chinn & Chapman.

1974, Rebel Rebel by David Bowie entered the UK chart, the single reached No.5 the following month.

1978, Winners at this years Grammy Awards included Fleetwood Mac, Album of the year for 'Rumours', The Eagles, Record of the year for 'Hotel California' and Best pop vocal performance, The Bee Gees for 'How Deep Is Your Love.'

1985, The Smiths scored their first UK No.1 album with 'Meat Is Murder.'

1991, Whitney Houston achieved her 9th US No.1 single in just over five years with her version of the Sister Sledge song 'All The Man I Need.'

1995, American singer Melvin Franklin of The Temptations died of a brain seizure aged 52. Had the 1971 US No.1 & UK No.8 single 'Just My Imagination' and re-issued 'My Girl' UK No.2 in 1992. In 1978 Franklin was shot in the hand and the leg when trying to stop a man from stealing his car.

1998, All members of Oasis were banned for life from flying Cathay Pacific Airlines after "abusive and disgusting behaviour" during a flight from Hong Kong to Perth, Australia.

2002, The Bee Gees made their last ever concert appearance when they appeared at the Love and Hope Ball, Miami Beach, Florida.

2003, Norah Jones cleaned up at the 45th Grammy Awards, held at Madison Square Garden, New York. The singer, songwriter won, Album of the year and Record of the year, with 'Don't Know Why.' Song of the year, Best new artist and Best female pop vocal for 'Don't Know Why'. Other winners included Best male pop vocal, John Mayer, 'Our Body Is A Wonderland'. Best male rock vocal, Bruce Springsteen, 'The Rising', Best female rock vocal, Sheryl Crow, 'Steve McQueen', Best rock performance by group, Coldplay, 'In My Place', Best rap album, Eminem, 'The Eminem Show'.

1950, Born on this day, Steve Priest, guitar, Sweet, (1973 UK No.1 single 'Blockbuster', plus 14 other UK Top 40 singles').

1952, Born on this day, Brad Whitford, guitar, Aerosmith, (1989 UK No.13 single 'Love In An Elevator', 1989 album 'Pump' spent 53 weeks on the US charts, 1993 US No.1 & UK No.2 album 'Get A Grip', 1998 US No.1 & UK No.4 single 'I Don't Want To Miss A Thing').

1955, Born on this day, Howard Jones, singer, songwriter, keyboards, (1983 UK No.2 single 'What Is Love', plus 9 other UK Top 40 singles). His 1984 album 'Human's Lib' spent over a year on the UK chart. Scored the 1986 US No.4 single 'No One Is To Blame'. Also been a member of Ringo Starr's All Star Band.

1958, Born on this day, David Sylvian, vocals, Japan, (1982 UK 5 single 'Ghosts').

1973, Born on this day, Olaf Lasse Johansson, keyboards, The Cardigans, (1997 UK No.2 single 'Lovefool').

Mitch Mitchell

John "Mitch" Mitchell (9 July 1947 – 12 November 2008) was an English drummer, best known for his work in The Jimi Hendrix Experience.

He was one of the greatest rock drummers of the 1960s. Mitchell was not a mere sideman to Hendrix, but an important collaborator.

Always changing rhythms, never predictable, he was also flexible enough to bounce off and respond to Hendrix's own original solo lines. This was evident on the very first singles and the trio's first album, Are You Experienced?, as can be heard on the thrilling drum parts on tracks like "Fire," "Third Stone from the Sun," and "Manic Depression."

Mitchell's style was a blend of the abandon of someone like Keith Moon with the jazz complexity of a sticksman like Elvin Jones.

While no one, including Mitchell, could match Moon for sheer rock power, it's also true that Mitchell had the technique to handle some rhythms and patterns that were beyond Moon's abilities.

Mitchell pioneered a style of drumming which would later become known as fusion. This is a "lead" style of playing distinguished by interplay with lead instruments such as guitar or keyboards, and the blending of jazz and rock drumming styles.
Though the use of lead drums was not a new concept in the world of jazz, it was relatively unheard of in the rock genre at the time.

Like a jazz drummer, Mitchell's playing not only provided a rhythmic support for the music, but also a source of momentum and melody. Alongside Hendrix's revolutionary guitar work and songwriting, Mitchell's playing helped redefine rock music drumming.

The Beach Boys - Good Vibrations

The Beach Boys are an American rock band, formed in 1961 in Hawthorne, California. The group was initially composed of brothers Brian, Dennis and Carl Wilson, their cousin Mike Love, and friend Al Jardine.

Managed by the Wilsons' father Murry, The Beach Boys signed to Capitol Records in 1962. The band's early music gained popularity across the United States for its close vocal harmonies and lyrics reflecting a Southern California youth culture of surfing, cars, and romance.

By the mid 1960s, Brian Wilson's growing creative ambition and songwriting ability would dominate the group's musical direction.

The primarily Wilson-composed Pet Sounds album and "Good Vibrations" single (both released in 1966) featured a complex, intricate and multi-layered sound that was a far cry from the simple surf rock of The Beach Boys' early years.

However, Wilson would soon lose control of the band because of mental-health and substance-abuse issues.

Subsequently, although it released a number of popular albums (in various musical styles, with different line-ups) in ensuing years, the group never managed to reclaim its mid-'60s peak when The Beach Boys briefly challenged The Beatles both in terms of commercial and critical appeal.

Since the 1980s, there has been much legal-wrangling among the group members over royalties, songwriting credits, and use of the band's name.

While The Beach Boys released their last studio album in 1996, a number of versions of the band, each fronted by a surviving member of the original quintet (Dennis and Carl Wilson died in 1983 and 1998, respectively), continue to tour.

The group has had 36 United States Top 40 hits (the most by an American rock band) and 56 Hot 100 hits, including four number-one singles.

Rolling Stone magazine listed The Beach Boys at number 12 on their 2004 list of the "100 Greatest Artists of All Time". The core quintet of the three Wilsons, Love and Jardine was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1988.

"Good Vibrations" was composed and produced by Brian Wilson, the song's lyrics were written by Wilson and Mike Love.

Released as a single on October 10, 1966 (backed with the Pet Sounds instrumental "Let's Go Away For Awhile"), it was The Beach Boys' third U.S. number-one hit, reaching the top of the Billboard Hot 100 chart in December 1966, as well as being their first British chart-topper.

Wilson's publicist Derek Taylor described "Good Vibrations" as a "pocket symphony". It featured instruments unusual for a pop song, including prominent use of the cello and an electro-theremin.

It is number six on Rolling Stone's list of the "500 Greatest Songs of All Time".The song "Good Vibrations" is part of the The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame's 500 Songs that Shaped Rock and Roll list.

The Righteous Brothers - You've Lost That Lovin' Feelin

The Righteous Brothers were the musical duo of Bill Medley and Bobby Hatfield. They recorded from 1963 through 1975, and continued to perform until Hatfield's death in 2003. Their emotive vocal stylings were sometimes dubbed "blue-eyed soul".

Medley and Hatfield both possessed exceptional vocal talent, with range, control and tone that helped them create a strong and distinctive duet sound and also to perform as soloists.

Medley sang the low parts with his deep, soulful bass, with Hatfield taking the higher register vocals with his soaring tenor.

They adopted their name in 1962 while performing together in the Los Angeles area as part of a five-member group called The Paramours.At the end of one particular performance, a Marine in the audience shouted, "That was righteous, brothers!",prompting the pair to adopt the name when they embarked on a career as a duo.

Their first major hit single was "You've Lost That Lovin' Feelin'" in 1965. Produced by Phil Spector, the record is often cited as one of the peak expressions of Spector's Wall of Sound production techniques.

It was one of the most successful pop singles of its time, despite exceeding the then standard length for radio play. Indeed, according to BMI,"You've Lost That Lovin' Feelin'" remains the most played song in radio history, estimated to have been broadcast more than eight million times.

Additionally, the song was chosen as one of the Songs of the Century by RIAA and ranked #34 on the list of the 500 Greatest Songs of All Time by Rolling Stone.

After a few more top 40 hits, their popularity began to decline. They eventually split up for more than seven years.

They both followed solo carriers with greatest success Medley’s duet with Jennifer Warnes — "(I've Had) The Time of My Life", which appeared on the soundtrack for Dirty Dancing in late 1987 — topped the Billboard Hot 100 and earned a Grammy Award and Oscar.

In 1990, the original recording of "Unchained Melody" was featured in the movie Ghost and caused an avalanche of requests to Top 40 radio by fans who had seen the movie. This motivated Polygram to re-release the song to Top 40 radio where it became a major hit for a second time (their second UK #1)

The Righteous Brothers were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame on March 10, 2003

This day in music history

1960, Percy Faith started a 9-week run at No.1 on the US chart with 'Theme From A Summer Place' a No.2 hit in the UK.

1962, Elvis Presley was at No.1 o the UK singles chart with 'Rock-A- Hula Baby / Cant Help Falling In Love.' The tracks were from his latest film 'Blue Hawaii' and became the singers tenth UK No.1

1968, Genesis released their first single 'The Silent Sun.' Not a chart hit.

1977, The Sex Pistols won 'Turkey Of The Year' in this years NME readers poll.

1987, Andy Warhol, pop artist and producer died after a gall bladder operation. The founder of the Pop Art movement, produced and managed The Velvet Underground, designed the 1967 Velvet Underground And Nico 'peeled banana' album cover and The Rolling Stones 'Sticky Fingers' album cover.

1989, A category for Heavy Metal was included at the Grammy Awards for the first time. Metallica performed on stage, but the award went to Jethro Tull. Many audience members booed. Meanwhile, Bobby McFerrin won Record Of The Year and Song Of The Year for 'Don't Worry, Be Happy', Tracy Chapman is named Best New Artist and Tina Turner won Best Female Rock Vocal Performance for 'Tina Live in Europe'.

1992, UK music paper the NME printed their writers all time best debut albums; at No.1, Patti Smith, 'Horses', No.2, Joy Division, 'Unknown Pleasures', No.3, MC5, 'Kick Out The Jams, No.4, The Jesus and Mary Chain, 'Psychocandy' and No.5, Television, 'Marquee Moon'.

1992, Shakespear's Sister started an eight-week run at No.1 on the UK singles chart with 'Stay'. The duo was made up of ex Bananarama member Siobhan Fahey and singer Marcella Detroit (who co-wrote 'Lay Down Sally' with Eric Clapton). One of the longest running UK No.1's in chart history and the longest by an all-female act.

1997, Blur went to No.1 on the UK album chart with their album 'Blur.'

1997, No Doubt went to No.1 on the UK singles chart with 'Don't Speak.' The third single from the band's second album Tragic Kingdom was written by Eric Stefani and his sister Gwen Stefani.

2001, Winners at the 43rd Grammy Awards included U2, record of the year and song of the year with 'Beautiful Day', Steely Dan won album of the year for 'Two Against Nature', Macy Gray won Female pop vocal for 'I Try', Sting won Male pop vocal for 'She Walks This Earth', Eminem won Best Rap album from 'The Marshall Mathers LP', Johnny Cash won Best Male country performance for 'Solitary Man', and Shelby Lynne won best new artist award.

2002, Drummer Ronnie Verrell died aged 76. Worked with The Ted Heath Orchestra and The Syd Lawrence Orchestra. Provided the drum licks for Animal in The Muppet Show.

2004, Norah Jones started a six week run at No.1 on the US album chart with ‘Feels
Like Home’, the singers second US No.1. Usher feat Lil Jon and Ludacris were at No.1 on the US singles chart with 'Yeah.'


2004, The Sex Pistols' 'Anarchy in the UK' was named the most influential record of the 1970s in poll compiled by Q magazine. Queen's 'Bohemian Rhapsody' was voted into second place and Donna Summer's 'I Feel Love' was third, T Rex's 'Get It On' was fourth and Special AKA's 'Gangsters' came fifth.

1938, Born on this day, Bobby Hendricks, The Drifters, (1960 US No.1 & UK No.2 single 'Save The Last Dance For Me').

1953, Born on this day, Graham Lewis, bass, Wire, (1989 UK No.68 single 'Eardrum Buzz').

1962, Born on this day, Michael Wilton, Queensryche, (1992 UK No.18 single 'Silent Lucidity').

1974, Born on this day, James Blunt, (born James Hillier Blount), singer, songwriter and former Army captain. Had the 2005 UK No.1 single 'You're Beautiful' and the 2005 UK No.1 album 'Back To Bedlam.' Became the first British artist to top the American singles chart in nearly a decade when 'You're Beautiful' reached No.1 in 2006. The last British artist to do so was Elton John in 1997 with 'Candle in the Wind'.

Buddy Rich vs Max Roach

The legendary Buddy Rich ( b. September 30, 1917) had a career that spanned seven decades. Immensely gifted, Rich could play with remarkable speed and dexterity despite the fact that he never received a formal lesson and refused to practice outside of his performances.

With his natural sense of rhythm, Rich performed regularly on Broadway at the age of four. At the peak of Rich's early career, he was the second-highest paid child entertainer in the world.

Rich's jazz career began in 1937 when he began playing with Joe Marsala at New York's Hickory House. By 1939, he had joined Tommy Dorsey's band, and he later went on to play with such jazz greats as Dizzy Gillespie, Charlie Ventura, Louis Armstrong and Gene Krupa. He also appeared in several Hollywood .

Throughout the 1960s and 70s, Rich toured with his own bands and opened two nightclubs, Buddy's Place and Buddy's Place II. Both clubs were regularly filled to capacity by fans of the great master drummer. After opening Buddy's Place II, Rich introduced new tunes with elements of rock into his repertoire, demonstrating his ability to adapt to his audience's changing tastes and establishing himself as a great rock drummer.

Known for his caustic humor, Rich was a favorite on several television talk shows. During these appearances, Rich entertained audiences through his constant sparring with the hosts and his slights of various pop singers.

This famed musician received outstanding recognition throughout his career. The Downbeat Magazine Hall of Fame Award, the Modern Drummer Magazine Hall of Fame Award and the Jazz Unlimited Immortals of Jazz Award are just a few of his numerous honors.

Rich gained international attention for such master compositions as his 10-minute West Side Story medley. During his lengthy career, Rich toured around the globe, performing for millions of fans and several world leaders including the king of Thailand, the queen of England, Franklin Roosevelt, John F. Kennedy, Ronald Regan and King Hussein of Jordan.

On April 2, 1987, Rich died of heart failure following surgery for a malignant brain tumor. Long-time friend, Frank Sinatra, presented the eulogy at Rich's funeral. Today, Buddy Rich is remembered as one of history's greatest musicians. According to jazz legend Gene Krupa, Rich was "The greatest drummer ever to have drawn breath."

Maxwell Lemuel Roach (January 10, 1924 – August 16, 2007) is generally considered one of the most important drummers in history. He worked with many of the greatest jazz musicians, including Coleman Hawkins, Dizzy Gillespie, Charlie Parker, Miles Davis, Duke Ellington, Charles Mingus, Sonny Rollins and Clifford Brown.

Roach also led his own groups, and made numerous musical statements relating to the civil rights movement of African-Americans.

As a young man, Max Roach, a percussion virtuoso capable of playing at the most brutal tempos with subtlety as well as power, was among a small circle of adventurous musicians who brought about wholesale changes in jazz. He remained adventurous to the end.

As a teenager he worked briefly with Duke Ellington’s orchestra at the Paramount Theater and with Charlie Parker at Monroe’s Uptown House in Harlem, where he took part in jam sessions that helped lay the groundwork for bebop.

By the middle 1940’s, he had become a ubiquitous presence on the New York jazz scene, working in the 52nd Street nightclubs with Parker, the trumpeter Dizzy Gillespie and other leading modernists. Within a few years he had become equally ubiquitous on record, participating in such seminal recordings as Miles Davis’s “Birth of the Cool” sessions in 1949 and 1950.

Over the years he challenged both his audiences and himself by working not just with standard jazz instrumentation, and not just in traditional jazz venues, but in a wide variety of contexts, some of them well beyond the confines of jazz as that word is generally understood.

In 1972, he became one of the first jazz musicians to teach full time at the college level when he was hired as a professor at the University of Massachusetts at Amherst. And in 1988, he became the first jazz musician to receive a so-called genius grant from the MacArthur Foundation.

By the early ‘90s, Mr. Roach had reduced his teaching load and was again based in New York year-round, traveling to Amherst only for two residencies and a summer program each year. He was still touring with his quartet as recently as 2000, and he also remained active as a composer.

This session was released in 1959 and has been marked as "a drum lover's dream come true". The two drummers are heard "throwing ideas back and forth as if engaged in a mad, joyous tennis match. And how they inspire each other".
It is certainly a great tribute to the greatness of both Buddy Rich and Max Roach

Keely Smith - Sweet and Lovely

Keely Smith (born March 9, 1928), is an American jazz and popular music singer who enjoyed popularity in the 1950s and 1960s. She collaborated with, among others, Louis Prima and Frank Sinatra.

Smith showed a natural aptitude for singing at a young age. At 14, she started singing with a naval air station band led by Saxie Dowell. At 15, she got her first paying job with the Earl Bennett band.

Smith made her professional debut with Louis Prima in 1949. They recorded many duets. These include Johnny Mercer's and Harold Arlen's "That Ol' Black Magic", which was a Top 20 hit in the US in 1958.

In 1959, Smith and Prima were awarded the first-ever Grammy Award for Best Performance by a Vocal Group or Chorus for "That Ol' Black Magic".

Her "dead-pan" act was a hit with fans. The duo followed up with the minor successes "I've Got You Under My Skin" and "Bei Mir Bist Du Schoen", a revival of the 1937 Andrews Sisters hit. Smith and Prima's act was a mainstay of the Las Vegas lounge scene for much of the 1950s. She married him in 1953 and divorced him in 1961. Keely and Prima had three children.

Her first big solo hit was "I Wish You Love". In 1961, Smith divorced Prima. She then signed with Reprise Records, where her musical director was Nelson Riddle. In 1965, she had Top 20 hits in the UK with an album of Beatles compositions, and a single, "You're Breaking My Heart".

In 1985, she made a comeback with I'm In Love Again (Fantasy Records)[citation needed]. Her albums, Swing, Swing, Swing (2002), Keely Sings Sinatra (2001) for which she was Grammy nominated, and Keely Swings Count Basie Style with Strings (2002) garnered critical and fan acclaim.

Sweet and Lovely is from the album Politely (1959) with Billy May and His Orchestra. It was written in 1931 by Gus Arnheim, Neil Moret and Harry Tobias

This day in music history

1964, New York band The Echoes recruited a new young unknown piano player, named Billy Joel.

1964, Three classic British singles were released, The Rolling Stones 'Not Fade Away', (a UK No.3), The Hollies 'Just One Look', (a UK No.2), and Billy J Kramer's 'Little Children', (a UK No.1).

1968, Otis Redding had his first entry on the UK singles chart when '(Sittin On) The Dock Of The Bay' entered the chart, it went on to be a No.3 hit.

1970, Simon and Garfunkel went to No.1 on the UK chart with 'Bridge Over Troubled Water'. The album went on to stay on the chart for over 300 weeks, returning to the top of the charts on eight separate occasions and spending a total of 41 weeks at No.1.

1977, Fleetwood Mac released 'Rumours'. The album went on to sell more than 15 million copies world-wide and spent 31 weeks at No.1 on the US chart.

1981, Dolly Parton started a two week run at No.1 on the US charts with '9 to 5', the singers first No.1, a No.47 hit in the UK.

1981, REO Speedwagon went to No.1 on the US album chart with 'Hi Infidelity'. The album spent a total of 15 weeks at No.1.

1981, Phil Collins entered the UK album chart at No.1 with 'Face Value.'

1982, American DJ Murry The K died. Murray is thought to be the first person to play a Beatles record on radio in America. During the early days of Beatlemania, he frequently referred to himself as "the Fifth Beatle". Married six times, he died of cancer a week after his 60th birthday.

1987, Ben E King was at No.1 in the UK singles chart with 'Stand By Me.' The track was first released in 1961 and became a hit in 1987 after being featured in the film 'Stand By Me.'

1998, Celine Dion went to No.1 on the UK singles chart with 'My Heart Will Go On'. The song was the theme from the movie Titanic. The world's best selling single of 1998.

1933, Born on this day, Nina Simone, (Eunice Wayman) US jazz, blues singer, (1959 US No.18 single 'I Love You, Porgy', 1968 UK No.2 single 'Ain't Got No I Got Life'). Simone died of cancer on 21st April 2003

1943, Born on this day, David Geffen, Geffen record label boss. Founder of Asylum records signed The Eagles, Crosby Stills Nash & Young, Jackson Browne, Joni Mitchell. Formed Dreamworks in 1995.

1945, Born on this day, Paul Newton, Uriah Heep, (1975 UK No.7 album 'Return To Fantasy').

1952, Born on this day, Jean-Jacques Burel, bass, vocals, The Stranglers, (1982 UK No.2 single 'Golden Brown' plus over 20 other UK Top 40 hits).

1962, Born on this day, Mark Arm, vocals, Mudhoney, (1991 UK No.60 single 'Let It Slide').

1969, Born on this day, James Dean Bradfield, guitar, vocals, Manic Street Preachers, (1996 UK No.2 single 'A Design For Life', 1998 UK No.1 album 'This Is My Truth Tell Me Yours').

Hellen Forrest - Perfidia

Helen Forrest (April 12, 1917 – July 11, 1999) aka The Blue Lady, was one of the most popular female jazz vocalists during America's Big Band era.

Her smooth and swinging voice was soft and warm. As a young girl, she sang in New York radio stations and then in her brother's Washington band. She later became the lead singer in Artie Shaw's band in 1938, replacing Billie Holiday.

Forrest recorded 38 singles with Shaw's band. Two of her biggest hits with Shaw were the songs "They Say" and "All the Things You Are."

She also graced the bands of Harry James, Benny Goodman and others in later years.
Forrest attained her peak of popularity among female jazz female singers in 1941 - singing wartime hits. Her signature song, "I Had The Craziest Dream", is also the title of her autobiography written in 1982.

In 1944 she became a solo singer. She appeared on radio and film shorts and went touring. In the 1950s she curtailed her activities but continued to perform in the 1960s to 1980s. She cut her last album in 1983.

Helen Forrest died from congestive heart failure on July 11, 1999 in Woodland Hills, California at the age of 82.

"Perfidia" (Spanish for "perfidy", as in faithless, treacherous or false) is a popular song written by Alberto Domínguez (1911–1975), a Mexican composer and arranger about love and betrayal.

Aside from the original Spanish, other renditions exist, including English and instrumental versions. The English lyrics are by Milton Leeds. The song was published in 1939 and became a hit for Xavier Cugat in 1940.

"Perfidia"' has been recorded by many artists, including Julie London, The Four Aces, Charlie Parker, Glenn Miller, Nana Mouskouri, The Shadows, The Ventures, Trini Lopez, Linda Ronstadt (in Spanish), Nat King Cole (in Spanish), Cliff Richard, Lawrence Welk, Luis Miguel, ,

The song is played in the film Casablanca when Ingrid Bergman and Humphrey Bogart dance in the Paris nightclub, in the flashback sequence of their romance there

Gene Krupa

Gene Krupa was born in Chicago, Illinois on January 15, 1909 and was the the youngest of Bartley and Ann Krupa's nine children.

He was an influential American jazz and big band drummer and composer, known for his highly energetic and flamboyant style.

Gene Krupa will forever be known as the man who made drums a solo instrument. He inspired millions to become drummers. He also demonstrated a level of showmanship which has not been equaled. Buddy Rich once said that Gene was the "beginning and the end of all jazz drummers."

Krupa began playing professionally in the mid 1920s with bands in Wisconsin. He broke into the Chicago scene in 1927, when he was picked by MCA to become a member of "Thelma Terry and Her Playboys", the first notable American Jazz band (outside of all-girl bands) to be led by a female musician.

Krupa made his first recordings in 1927, with a band under the leadership of banjoist Eddie Condon and Red McKenzie.The numbers recorded at that session were: "China Boy", "Sugar", "Nobody's Sweetheart" and "Liza". The McKenzie - Condon sides are also notable for being some of the early examples of the use of a full drum kit on recordings.

In 1929 he moved to New York City and worked with the band of Red Nichols.

In 1933 he joined Benny Goodman's band, where his featured drum work made him a national celebrity. His tom-tom interludes on their hit "Sing, Sing, Sing" were the first extended drum solos to be recorded commercially.

In 1938, Krupa performed with the Goodman Orchestra in the famous Carnegie Hall Jazz Concert.

After a public fight with Goodman at the Earl Theater in Philadelphia, Krupa left Goodman to launch his own band and had several hits with singer Anita O'Day and trumpeter Roy Eldridge.

His athletic drumming style, timing methods and cymbal technique evolved during this decade to fit in with changed fashions and tastes, but he never quite adjusted to the Be-Bop period.

In 1954, Krupa returned to Hollywood, performing, along with Louis Armstrong, "Basin Street Blues" in Jimmy Stewart's bio-pic The Glenn Miller Story. He also joined fellow Benny Goodman alumni Harry James, Teddy Wilson, and Lionel Hampton in The Benny Goodman Story, starring Steve Allen.

In 1959, the movie biography The Gene Krupa Story was released, with Sal Mineo portraying Krupa and a cameo appearance by Red Nichols.

Krupa continued to perform even in famous clubs in the 1960s like the Metropole, near Times Square in New York City, often playing duets with African American drummer Cozy Cole.

Increasingly troubled by back pain, he retired in the late 1960s and opened a music school. He occasionally played in public in the early 1970s until shortly before his death, October 16, 1973. He died of leukemia and heart failure in Yonkers, New York at the age of sixty-four.

Many consider Krupa to be one of the most influential drummers of the 20th century, particularly regarding the development of the drum kit. His drum method was published in 1938 and immediately became the standard text. He is also credited with inventing the rim shot on the snare drum.Krupa also developed and popularised many of the cymbal techniques that became standards.

The 1937 recording of Louis Prima's "Sing, Sing, Sing (With a Swing)" by Benny Goodman and His Orchestra featuring Gene Krupa on drums was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame.

In 1978, Gene Krupa became the first drummer inducted into the Modern Drummer Hall of Fame.

Rhythm, the UK's best selling drum magazine voted Gene Krupa the third most influential drummer ever, in a poll conducted for its February 2009 issue. Voters included over 50 top-name drummers.

This day in music history

1960, Jimi Hendrix made his stage debut when he played a show at a High School in Seattle.

1971, The soundtrack to 'Jesus Christ Superstar' went to No.1 on the US album chart. The album peaked at No.6 on the UK chart.

1972, Chicory Tip were at No.1 on the UK singles chart with 'Son Of My Father.' Written by Giorgio Moroder, it was the first UK number one single to prominently feature a synthesizer, in this case a Moog synthesizer.

1977, Winners at this years Grammy Awards included Stevie Wonder for Best album with 'Songs In The Key Of Life', and Best Vocal performance for 'I Wish.' Best album went to Chicago for 'Chicago X' and Best new artist went to the Starland Vocal Band.

1978, Abba were at No.1 on the UK singles chart with 'Take A Chance On Me', the group's seventh No.1 was also a top 3 hit in over 10 other countries.

1980, Bon Scott, singer from AC/DC was pronounced dead on arrival at a London hospital after a heavy night's drinking. Scott was found in the passenger seat of a friend's parked car. The official coroner's report stated that he had "Drunk himself to death." after suffocating on his own vomit.

1988, Kylie Minogue was at No.1 on the UK singles chart with 'I Should Be So Lucky.' Minogue had become a household name playing Charlene Ramsey in Australian soap Neighbours. After every major UK record company turned down the track, producer Pete Waterman released the single on his own PWL label. Kylie has gone on to score over 30 hit singles.

1991, Bob Dylan was awarded a lifetime achievement award at the 33rd annual Grammy' Awards.

2002, Winners at this year's Brit Awards included, Robbie Williams for Best Male act, Dido won Best Female act, Travis won Best British group, S Club 7 Best single for 'Don't Stop Movin' The Strokes won best international newcomer, Best International Female was Kylie Minogue, International Group went to Destiny's Child and Sting won Outstanding Contribution To Music.
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2003, Winners at this years Bit Awards included Robbie Williams for British solo artist, Ms Dynamite won British female artist, Best British album went to Coldplay for 'A Rush Of Blood', Best British group went to Coldplay, Red Hot Chili Peppers won International Group, Blue won Best Pop Act and Liberty X won Best single for 'Just A Little.'

2008, Winners at this year's Brit Awards in London, included Take That who won the trophies for best British live act and British single, The Arctic Monkeys won best British group and album - both for the second year in a row and Foo Fighters won best international group and album. Kate Nash won best British female and Mark Ronson was named best British male. Kylie Minogue won best international female and Mika was named best British breakthrough act. Sir Paul McCartney performed a medley of hits, including Live and Let Die, Hey Jude and Lady Madonna after he was honoured with an outstanding contribution award. The show was presented by Sharon Osbourne.

1954, Born on this day, Jon Brant, Cheap Trick, (1979 UK No.29 & US No.17 single 'I Want You To Want Me', 1988 US No.1 single 'The Flame').

1960, Born on this day, Mark Reilly, singer, Matt Bianco, (1988 UK No.11 single 'Don't Blame It On That Girl').

1967, Born on this day, Kurt Cobain, guitar, vocals, Nirvana, (1991 UK No.7 and 1992 US No.6 single 'Smells Like Teen Spirit', from the 1991 album 'Nevermind' which spent over two years on the UK chart and was a US No.1 album in 1992). Cobain committed suicide on April 5th 1994.

1985, Born on this day, Volkova Olegovna, singer, Tatu, (2003 UK No.1 single 'All The Things She Said').

1988, Born on this day, Rihanna (Robyn Rihanna Fenty), R&B singer, (2006 US & Australian No.1 and UK No.2 single ‘SOS’, 2006 US Top 10 album ‘A Girl Like Me’. 2007 US, UK and Australian No.1 single 'Umbrella' featuring Jay-Z. 'Umbrella' became the longest running UK No.1 in the 21st Century.

The Gaslight Anthem - American Slang

The Gaslight Anthem are an American rock band from New Brunswick, New Jersey, consisting of Brian Fallon (lead vocals, guitar), Alex Rosamilia (guitar, backing vocals), Alex Levine (bass guitar, backing vocals) and Benny Horowitz (drums, percussion, tambourine).

They released their first album, Sink or Swim in May 2007, and their second album, The '59 Sound in August 2008. The band's third album, American Slang, was released on June 15, 2010.

The Gaslight Anthem is part of a rich tradition of New Jersey punk. The Gaslight Anthem's music also embraces many elements of the Jersey Shore sound.

Brian Fallon's fondness for Springsteen, a significant influence on their music, is a fact celebrated by fans and critics alike. However the band claims they never set out to sound like the New Jersey icon.

Joe Strummer has often been spoken about and referenced by lead singer Brian Fallon and the song "I'da Called You Woody, Joe," is a tribute to the legendary Clash frontman. Fallon has a tattoo of Strummer.

Brian Fallon has stated several times that without The Replacements there would be no Gaslight Anthem, as they are heavily influenced by them, especially their song 'Left of the Dial'.

Uncut magazine gave American Slang a 5 star rating and declared it its 'album of the month'. Rock Sound magazine gave the album a 9/10 and also declared it its 'album of the month'.

In December 2010, Exclaim! named American Slang the No. 19 Pop & Rock Album of the year.

Classic Rock magazine gave the album 8/10 and declared that "New and old fans alike will be speaking American Slang this summer."

The album reached the #3 position on the UK midweek album charts during its first week.

The album debuted at #16 on the Billboard 200, moving 27,000 copies, and was the #1 independent album for that week.

"Rolling Stone" magazine gave the album 3½ stars out of five, saying that "American Slang arrives with serious advance buzz: The choruses are more sculpted, but the band's tough-as-leather rush is as hard as ever, and Fallon howls so hard, he sounds like he's aiming to get a section of the Jersey Turnpike named after him."

The album currently holds a Metascore of 80% on Metacritic, based on 28 professional reviews.