The National is an indie rock band formed in Cincinnati, Ohio in 1999 and is currently based in Brooklyn, New York.
The band's lyrics are written and sung by Matt Berninger, a baritone. The rest of the band is composed of two pairs of brothers: Aaron and Bryce Dessner and Scott and Bryan Devendorf. Padma Newsome, from sister band Clogs, often contributes strings, keyboards, and other arrangements and instrumental flourishes.
They have realeased five albums and 2 Eps and their albums have made countless “album of the decade” lists among several known music media.
Their last album, High Violet was released on May 11, 2010 to widespread critical acclaim.
The album also debuted with first week sales topping charts across the world, ranking #3 in the US, #2 in Canada, #5 in the United Kingdom, and #3 in Portugal, among others. The album has sold over 400,000 copies worldwide.
High Violet is now a Gold Album in Ireland, Denmark and Belgium.
On October 25, 2010, High Violet was awarded a Q award for Best Album.
The award was presented by Bernard Sumner of Joy Division and New Order.
On January 14, 2011, The National were nominated for a Brit Award for International Breakthrough Act alongside Justin Bieber, Bruno Mars among others.
Sunday, February 20, 2011
James Blake - Limit to Your Love
James Blake is a British electronic composer from London, England. He started singing and studying piano at the age of six, a tutorage which eventually led to Blake's attendance of Goldsmiths University to study Popular Music.
Early listening came in the form of his parent's classical and jazz collections, in addition to US Soul and R 'n' B from the likes of Stevie Wonder, D'Angelo and Sly & The Family Stone.
Blake's love of electronic music came much later when the artist discovered dubstep duo Digital Mystikz a few months prior to his Goldsmiths enrolment.
James began his music career by releasing his debut 12" vinyl, entitled "Air & Lack Thereof" in the United Kingdom during July 2009. A second Vinyl-exclusive extended play, entitled "CMYK" was released through R&S Records during 2010.
His self-titled debut album was released in the UK on 7 February 2011.
On 6 January 2011, Blake was announced as runner-up in BBC's Sound of 2011, an annual poll that highlights the forthcoming year's likely successful musicians.
Blake's version of "Limit to Your Love" is a cover version that was originally recorded by Canadian singer-songwriter and member of the indie rock group Broken Social Scene, Feist .
The single was released in the United Kingdom on 28 November 2010, where it debuted on the UK Singles Chart at number 47
Early listening came in the form of his parent's classical and jazz collections, in addition to US Soul and R 'n' B from the likes of Stevie Wonder, D'Angelo and Sly & The Family Stone.
Blake's love of electronic music came much later when the artist discovered dubstep duo Digital Mystikz a few months prior to his Goldsmiths enrolment.
James began his music career by releasing his debut 12" vinyl, entitled "Air & Lack Thereof" in the United Kingdom during July 2009. A second Vinyl-exclusive extended play, entitled "CMYK" was released through R&S Records during 2010.
His self-titled debut album was released in the UK on 7 February 2011.
On 6 January 2011, Blake was announced as runner-up in BBC's Sound of 2011, an annual poll that highlights the forthcoming year's likely successful musicians.
Blake's version of "Limit to Your Love" is a cover version that was originally recorded by Canadian singer-songwriter and member of the indie rock group Broken Social Scene, Feist .
The single was released in the United Kingdom on 28 November 2010, where it debuted on the UK Singles Chart at number 47
Saturday, February 19, 2011
This day in music history
1963, The Beatles had 'Please Please Me' at No.1 on the NME singles chart.
1966, Nancy Sinatra held the UK No.1 single position with 'These Boots Are Made For Walkin'
1972, Harry Nilsson started a four week run at No.1 on the US singles chart with his version of the Badfinger song 'Without You.'
1977, Leo Sayer had his only UK No.1 single with the Albert Hammond and Carole Bayer Sager song 'When I Need You.' Both Celine Dion and Cliff Richard have scored hits with the song.
1977, Manfred Mann's Earth Band scored a No.1 single in the US with their version of the Bruce Springsteen song 'Blinded By The Light.'
1982, Ozzy Osbourne was arrested in San Antonio, Texas for urinating on the Alamo. Osbourne was wearing a dress at the time of his arrest.
1983, Kajagoogoo had their only UK No.1 single with 'Too Shy'. Also a hit in other European countries, 5 weeks at No.1 in Germany, a Top 5 hit in Switzerland, Sweden, Austria, and Netherlands. The group had four other Top 40 hits UK hits.
1994, Mariah Carey had her first UK No.1 with her version of the Peter Ham Tom Evans song 'Without You'.
1995, Motley Crue drummer Tommy Lee married Baywatch's Pamela Anderson on a Cancun beach, the bride wore a white bikini.
1995, Roxette became the first Western group to perform in Beijing since George Michael in 1984 when they played a concert celebrating the Chinese New Year.
1996, Winners at this year's Brit Awards included Paul Weller who won British Male Solo Artist, British Female Solo Artist went to Annie Lennox, Oasis won British Group, Best Album for ‘(What's The Story) Morning Glory?’ and Best British Video for ‘Wonderwall. British Breakthrough Act went to Supergrass, International Group was Bon Jovi, International Breakthrough Act went to Alanis Morissette and David Bowie was awarded Outstanding Contribution to music. Pulp singer Jarvis Cocker was arrested after a stage invasion during Michael Jackson's appearance, (who won Artist of a Generation). Cocker was accused of attacking children who were performing with Jackson; all charges against Cocker were dropped on March 11th of this year.
2008, Two releases by Oasis were voted the best British albums ever recorded in a poll of 11,000 people. Their 1994 album Definitely Maybe came top, while their 1995 follow-up (What's the Story) Morning Glory was second in the vote for Q magazine and HMV. Radiohead's OK Computer finished third, followed by Revolver by The Beatles and the Stone Roses' self-titled debut. The full list of 50 British albums included five by The Beatles.
1940, Born on this day, Smokey Robinson, singer, songwriter, producer, The Miracles, (1970 UK & US No.1 single 'The Tears Of A Clown',) solo (1981 UK No.1 & US No.2 single 'Being With You'), vice President of Motown Records in 1972.
1948, Born on this day, Toni Iommi, guitar, Black Sabbath, (1970 UK No.4 single 'Paranoid'). The bands self-titled album was voted as the best British rock albums ever by Kerrang! in 2005.
[more]
1950, Born on this day, Andy Powell, guitar, Wishbone Ash, (1972 UK No.3 album 'Argus', plus eight other Top 40 albums).
1957, Born on this day, Falco, (Hans Holzl), 1986 UK & US No.1 single 'Rock Me Amadeus'. Falco became the first-ever Austrian act to score a UK and US No.1 hit single. He was killed in a car accident on 6th February 1998.
1966, Nancy Sinatra held the UK No.1 single position with 'These Boots Are Made For Walkin'
1972, Harry Nilsson started a four week run at No.1 on the US singles chart with his version of the Badfinger song 'Without You.'
1977, Leo Sayer had his only UK No.1 single with the Albert Hammond and Carole Bayer Sager song 'When I Need You.' Both Celine Dion and Cliff Richard have scored hits with the song.
1977, Manfred Mann's Earth Band scored a No.1 single in the US with their version of the Bruce Springsteen song 'Blinded By The Light.'
1982, Ozzy Osbourne was arrested in San Antonio, Texas for urinating on the Alamo. Osbourne was wearing a dress at the time of his arrest.
1983, Kajagoogoo had their only UK No.1 single with 'Too Shy'. Also a hit in other European countries, 5 weeks at No.1 in Germany, a Top 5 hit in Switzerland, Sweden, Austria, and Netherlands. The group had four other Top 40 hits UK hits.
1994, Mariah Carey had her first UK No.1 with her version of the Peter Ham Tom Evans song 'Without You'.
1995, Motley Crue drummer Tommy Lee married Baywatch's Pamela Anderson on a Cancun beach, the bride wore a white bikini.
1995, Roxette became the first Western group to perform in Beijing since George Michael in 1984 when they played a concert celebrating the Chinese New Year.
1996, Winners at this year's Brit Awards included Paul Weller who won British Male Solo Artist, British Female Solo Artist went to Annie Lennox, Oasis won British Group, Best Album for ‘(What's The Story) Morning Glory?’ and Best British Video for ‘Wonderwall. British Breakthrough Act went to Supergrass, International Group was Bon Jovi, International Breakthrough Act went to Alanis Morissette and David Bowie was awarded Outstanding Contribution to music. Pulp singer Jarvis Cocker was arrested after a stage invasion during Michael Jackson's appearance, (who won Artist of a Generation). Cocker was accused of attacking children who were performing with Jackson; all charges against Cocker were dropped on March 11th of this year.
2008, Two releases by Oasis were voted the best British albums ever recorded in a poll of 11,000 people. Their 1994 album Definitely Maybe came top, while their 1995 follow-up (What's the Story) Morning Glory was second in the vote for Q magazine and HMV. Radiohead's OK Computer finished third, followed by Revolver by The Beatles and the Stone Roses' self-titled debut. The full list of 50 British albums included five by The Beatles.
1940, Born on this day, Smokey Robinson, singer, songwriter, producer, The Miracles, (1970 UK & US No.1 single 'The Tears Of A Clown',) solo (1981 UK No.1 & US No.2 single 'Being With You'), vice President of Motown Records in 1972.
1948, Born on this day, Toni Iommi, guitar, Black Sabbath, (1970 UK No.4 single 'Paranoid'). The bands self-titled album was voted as the best British rock albums ever by Kerrang! in 2005.
[more]
1950, Born on this day, Andy Powell, guitar, Wishbone Ash, (1972 UK No.3 album 'Argus', plus eight other Top 40 albums).
1957, Born on this day, Falco, (Hans Holzl), 1986 UK & US No.1 single 'Rock Me Amadeus'. Falco became the first-ever Austrian act to score a UK and US No.1 hit single. He was killed in a car accident on 6th February 1998.
Elastica - Connection
One of the most prominent bands on the UK independent scene during the 90s, Elastica's line-up coalesced around Justine Frischmann (Born 16 September 1969, Twickenham, London, England; vocals/guitar), Donna Matthews (bass), Justin Welch (drums) and Annie Holland (guitar).
Some of Elastica's original notoriety sprang from the fact that Frischmann was in an early incarnation of Suede and was romantically linked with that band's singer, Brett Anderson, then Blur's Damon Albarn.
Their sound has punk and new wave influences as diverse as Wire, Adam And The Ants, Blondie and Bow Wow Wow.
Elastica's first LP, Elastica, was released in March 1995, and entered the UK Albums Chart at No. 1; it became the fastest-selling debut album in UK history at the time.
A self-titled six-track EP appeared in August 1999, collecting a variety of recordings from a multitude of aborted sessions. This EP marked the first new material from the band in over four years.
Their second proper album, The Menace, was released in April 2000. After the release of the farewell single "The Bitch Don't Work" in 2001, the band announced their break-up.
"Connection" was originally released in 1994 as a single while the album version was not released until 1995 on their self-titled debut.
The song was the subject of controversy, due to its overt similarity to another band's work.
The intro synthesizer part (later also repeated on guitar) is lifted from the guitar riff in Wire's "Three Girl Rhumba" and transposed a semitone (the judgment resulted in an out-of-court settlement for which Wire received no compensation).
Some of Elastica's original notoriety sprang from the fact that Frischmann was in an early incarnation of Suede and was romantically linked with that band's singer, Brett Anderson, then Blur's Damon Albarn.
Their sound has punk and new wave influences as diverse as Wire, Adam And The Ants, Blondie and Bow Wow Wow.
Elastica's first LP, Elastica, was released in March 1995, and entered the UK Albums Chart at No. 1; it became the fastest-selling debut album in UK history at the time.
A self-titled six-track EP appeared in August 1999, collecting a variety of recordings from a multitude of aborted sessions. This EP marked the first new material from the band in over four years.
Their second proper album, The Menace, was released in April 2000. After the release of the farewell single "The Bitch Don't Work" in 2001, the band announced their break-up.
"Connection" was originally released in 1994 as a single while the album version was not released until 1995 on their self-titled debut.
The song was the subject of controversy, due to its overt similarity to another band's work.
The intro synthesizer part (later also repeated on guitar) is lifted from the guitar riff in Wire's "Three Girl Rhumba" and transposed a semitone (the judgment resulted in an out-of-court settlement for which Wire received no compensation).
Blur - Beetlebum
Blur were formed in London in 1989, while Damon Albarn (Born 23 March 1968, Whitechapel, London, England; vocals), Alex James (Born 21 November 1968, Bournemouth, Dorset, England; bass) and Graham Coxon (Born 12 March 1969, Rinteln, Hannover, Germany; guitar) were studying at Goldsmiths College.
Playing vibrant 90s-friendly pop with a sharp cutting edge incorporating the sounds of Madchester , the band helped to popularise the Britpop genre and achieved mass popularity in the UK, aided by a famous chart battle with rival band Oasis dubbed "The Battle of Britpop".
The band underwent several reinventions of their music style, showing a variety of influences.
The relations between Blur members had become very strained during the years, ending with Coxon’s departure from the band.
After a 2003 tour Blur did no studio work or touring as a band, as members engaged in other projects. In 2009 Blur reunited, with Coxon back in the fold, for a series of successful concerts.
They released seven albums between 1991 to 2003, winning many awards during these years.
"Beetlebum" was released as the lead single for the band's eponymous fifth album, Blur. The single became Blur's second to reach the number one spot in the UK Singles Chart (after "Country House").
The song is about heroin and the drug experiences that Damon Albarn had with his then girlfriend, Justine Frischmann of Elastica.
The song's title is a reference to the phrase "Chasing the beetle" (Chasing the dragon) which refers to inhaling the smoke from heated heroin, morphine, or opium that has been placed on a piece of tin-foil.
Playing vibrant 90s-friendly pop with a sharp cutting edge incorporating the sounds of Madchester , the band helped to popularise the Britpop genre and achieved mass popularity in the UK, aided by a famous chart battle with rival band Oasis dubbed "The Battle of Britpop".
The band underwent several reinventions of their music style, showing a variety of influences.
The relations between Blur members had become very strained during the years, ending with Coxon’s departure from the band.
After a 2003 tour Blur did no studio work or touring as a band, as members engaged in other projects. In 2009 Blur reunited, with Coxon back in the fold, for a series of successful concerts.
They released seven albums between 1991 to 2003, winning many awards during these years.
"Beetlebum" was released as the lead single for the band's eponymous fifth album, Blur. The single became Blur's second to reach the number one spot in the UK Singles Chart (after "Country House").
The song is about heroin and the drug experiences that Damon Albarn had with his then girlfriend, Justine Frischmann of Elastica.
The song's title is a reference to the phrase "Chasing the beetle" (Chasing the dragon) which refers to inhaling the smoke from heated heroin, morphine, or opium that has been placed on a piece of tin-foil.
Alice in Chains - Man In The Box
Alice in Chains is an American rock band formed in Seattle, Washington, in 1987 by guitarist Jerry Cantrell and original lead vocalist Layne Staley. Although widely associated with grunge music, the band's sound incorporates heavy metal and acoustic elements with strong songwriting.
Since its formation, Alice in Chains has released four studio albums, three EPs, two live albums, four compilations, and two DVDs.
The band is known for its distinct vocal style which often included the harmonized vocals of Staley and Cantrell.
Alice in Chains rose to international fame as part of the grunge movement of the early 1990s, along with other Seattle bands such as Nirvana, Pearl Jam, and Soundgarden.
The band was one of the most successful music acts of the 1990s, selling over 25 million albums worldwide,and over 12 million in the US alone.
The band achieved two number-one Billboard 200 albums (Jar of Flies and Alice in Chains), 14 top ten songs on the Mainstream Rock Tracks chart, and eight Grammy Award nominations.
Although never officially disbanding, Alice in Chains was plagued by extended inactivity due to substance abuse, culminating in the death of Layne Staley in 2002.
Alice in Chains reunited in 2005 with new lead vocalist William DuVall and released Black Gives Way to Blue, their first studio album in 14 years, on September 29, 2009.
"Man In The Box" was released as a single in 1991 after being featured on the group's debut full-length album Facelift (1990).
It became an MTV favourite, and the album went gold in the autumn of 1991.
Layne Staley stated that he was really stoned when he wrote it and the lyrics are about censorship in the mass media.
The song was nominated for the Grammy Award for Best Hard Rock Performance in 1992.The song was number 19 on VH1's 40 Greatest Metal Songs and its solo was rated the 77th greatest guitar solo by Guitar World. It was number 50 on VH1's 100 Greatest Songs of the 90's in 2007.
Since its formation, Alice in Chains has released four studio albums, three EPs, two live albums, four compilations, and two DVDs.
The band is known for its distinct vocal style which often included the harmonized vocals of Staley and Cantrell.
Alice in Chains rose to international fame as part of the grunge movement of the early 1990s, along with other Seattle bands such as Nirvana, Pearl Jam, and Soundgarden.
The band was one of the most successful music acts of the 1990s, selling over 25 million albums worldwide,and over 12 million in the US alone.
The band achieved two number-one Billboard 200 albums (Jar of Flies and Alice in Chains), 14 top ten songs on the Mainstream Rock Tracks chart, and eight Grammy Award nominations.
Although never officially disbanding, Alice in Chains was plagued by extended inactivity due to substance abuse, culminating in the death of Layne Staley in 2002.
Alice in Chains reunited in 2005 with new lead vocalist William DuVall and released Black Gives Way to Blue, their first studio album in 14 years, on September 29, 2009.
"Man In The Box" was released as a single in 1991 after being featured on the group's debut full-length album Facelift (1990).
It became an MTV favourite, and the album went gold in the autumn of 1991.
Layne Staley stated that he was really stoned when he wrote it and the lyrics are about censorship in the mass media.
The song was nominated for the Grammy Award for Best Hard Rock Performance in 1992.The song was number 19 on VH1's 40 Greatest Metal Songs and its solo was rated the 77th greatest guitar solo by Guitar World. It was number 50 on VH1's 100 Greatest Songs of the 90's in 2007.
Friday, February 18, 2011
This day in music history
1956, The Platters 'The Great Pretender', started a two run at No.1 on the US singles chart, a No. 5 in the UK.
1959, Ray Charles recorded ‘What'd I Say,’ in New York City. The song had evolved in concert as a call-and-response between Charles and his female back-up singers. It became Charles' biggest hit to date, reaching No.1 on the R&B and No.6 on the pop charts.
1962, On weekend leave from marine training, The Everly Brothers appeared on the US Ed Sullivan show, in full uniform and with regulation cropped hair, singing their new single, 'Crying In The Rain'.
1965, The Kinks were at No.1 on the UK singles chart with 'Tired Of Waiting For You', the group's second UK No.1.
1966, Beach Boy Brian Wilson recorded the future classic song 'Good Vibrations', which went on to become the band's third U.S. number-one hit. As a child, his mother told him that dogs could pick up "vibrations" from people, so that the dog would bark at "bad vibrations" Wilson turned this into the general idea for the song.
1969, This week's UK Top 5 singles: No.5, 'Dancing In The Street', Martha Reeves and the Vandellas, No.4, 'I'm Gonna Make You Love Me', Diana Ross and the Supremes and the Temptations, No.3, 'Where Do You Go To' Peter Sarstedt, No.2, 'Blackberry Way', The Move, and No.1, 'Half As Nice' Amen Corner.'
1984, Simple Minds scored their first UK No.1 album with 'Sparkle In The Rain' the bands 6th release.
1987, Bon Jovi were at No.1 on the US singles chart with 'Livin' On A Prayer', it made No.4 in the UK.
1989, Debbie Gibson started a five-week run at No.1 on the US album chart with 'Electric Youth.'
1989, Fine Young Cannibals scored their only UK number 1 album with 'The Raw And The Cooked.'
2004, Dido entered a Top 10 of the music world’s biggest earners after making £15.8 million ($26.9 million) in 2003. The singer’s second album Life For Rent was the previous year’s biggest selling UK album. The Rolling Stones topped the Heat magazine rich list having earned £55.3 million ($94 million) in 2003.
2007, Norah Jones scored her third US No.1 album with 'Not Too Late', also a No.1 in the UK and over 20 other countries.
2009, Welsh songstress Duffy won three trophies at this years Brit awards, taking home Best British Female Solo Artist, British Breakthrough Act and British Album of the Year for her debut Rockferry. Kings of Leon won International Group and International Album for Only By The Night, International Male and Female Solo Artists were Kanye West and Katy Perry. British Male Solo Artist went to Paul Weller, Iron Maiden won British Live Act and Elbow won Best British Group. Outstanding Contribution to Music went to the Pet Shop Boys.
1933, Born on this day, Yoko Ono, artist, singer, poet and wife of John Lennon. Moved to New York City from Tokyo aged 14. Ono met John Lennon in London in 1966 and the couple married in 1969.
1934, Born on this day, Skip Battin, The Byrds, (1965 US & UK No.1 single' Mr Tambourine Man'). Battin died on July 6th 2003.
1947, Born on this day, Dennis Deyoung, vocals, keyboards, Styx, (1979 US No.1 & 1980 UK No.6 single 'Babe').
1954, Born on this day, John Travolta, actor, singer, (1978 UK & US No.1 single with Olivia Newton John, 'You're The One That I Want').
1955, Born on this day, Brian James, The Damned, (1986 UK No.3 single 'Eloise'), Lords Of The New Church.
1970, Born on this day, twins, Andy Williams (drums, vocals), and Jez Williams, (guitar). Sub Sub, (1993 UK No.3 single ‘Ain’t No Love, (Ain’t No Use'). Doves, (2002 UK No.3 single ‘There Goes The Fear’ and 2002 UK No.1 album ‘The Last Broadcast’).
1959, Ray Charles recorded ‘What'd I Say,’ in New York City. The song had evolved in concert as a call-and-response between Charles and his female back-up singers. It became Charles' biggest hit to date, reaching No.1 on the R&B and No.6 on the pop charts.
1962, On weekend leave from marine training, The Everly Brothers appeared on the US Ed Sullivan show, in full uniform and with regulation cropped hair, singing their new single, 'Crying In The Rain'.
1965, The Kinks were at No.1 on the UK singles chart with 'Tired Of Waiting For You', the group's second UK No.1.
1966, Beach Boy Brian Wilson recorded the future classic song 'Good Vibrations', which went on to become the band's third U.S. number-one hit. As a child, his mother told him that dogs could pick up "vibrations" from people, so that the dog would bark at "bad vibrations" Wilson turned this into the general idea for the song.
1969, This week's UK Top 5 singles: No.5, 'Dancing In The Street', Martha Reeves and the Vandellas, No.4, 'I'm Gonna Make You Love Me', Diana Ross and the Supremes and the Temptations, No.3, 'Where Do You Go To' Peter Sarstedt, No.2, 'Blackberry Way', The Move, and No.1, 'Half As Nice' Amen Corner.'
1984, Simple Minds scored their first UK No.1 album with 'Sparkle In The Rain' the bands 6th release.
1987, Bon Jovi were at No.1 on the US singles chart with 'Livin' On A Prayer', it made No.4 in the UK.
1989, Debbie Gibson started a five-week run at No.1 on the US album chart with 'Electric Youth.'
1989, Fine Young Cannibals scored their only UK number 1 album with 'The Raw And The Cooked.'
2004, Dido entered a Top 10 of the music world’s biggest earners after making £15.8 million ($26.9 million) in 2003. The singer’s second album Life For Rent was the previous year’s biggest selling UK album. The Rolling Stones topped the Heat magazine rich list having earned £55.3 million ($94 million) in 2003.
2007, Norah Jones scored her third US No.1 album with 'Not Too Late', also a No.1 in the UK and over 20 other countries.
2009, Welsh songstress Duffy won three trophies at this years Brit awards, taking home Best British Female Solo Artist, British Breakthrough Act and British Album of the Year for her debut Rockferry. Kings of Leon won International Group and International Album for Only By The Night, International Male and Female Solo Artists were Kanye West and Katy Perry. British Male Solo Artist went to Paul Weller, Iron Maiden won British Live Act and Elbow won Best British Group. Outstanding Contribution to Music went to the Pet Shop Boys.
1933, Born on this day, Yoko Ono, artist, singer, poet and wife of John Lennon. Moved to New York City from Tokyo aged 14. Ono met John Lennon in London in 1966 and the couple married in 1969.
1934, Born on this day, Skip Battin, The Byrds, (1965 US & UK No.1 single' Mr Tambourine Man'). Battin died on July 6th 2003.
1947, Born on this day, Dennis Deyoung, vocals, keyboards, Styx, (1979 US No.1 & 1980 UK No.6 single 'Babe').
1954, Born on this day, John Travolta, actor, singer, (1978 UK & US No.1 single with Olivia Newton John, 'You're The One That I Want').
1955, Born on this day, Brian James, The Damned, (1986 UK No.3 single 'Eloise'), Lords Of The New Church.
1970, Born on this day, twins, Andy Williams (drums, vocals), and Jez Williams, (guitar). Sub Sub, (1993 UK No.3 single ‘Ain’t No Love, (Ain’t No Use'). Doves, (2002 UK No.3 single ‘There Goes The Fear’ and 2002 UK No.1 album ‘The Last Broadcast’).
The Beautiful South - Perfect 10
The Beautiful South was an English group formed at the end of the 1980s by two former members of The Housemartins, Paul Heaton and Dave Hemingway. The duo were initially joined by Sean Welch (bass), Dave Stead (drums) and Dave Rotheray (guitar), all of whom stayed with the group throughout their 19-year career.
Later additions included female vocalist Briana Corrigan; she was replaced by Jacqui Abbott, who in turn was replaced by Alison Wheeler.
The Housemartins had a dower northern reputation – they came from Hull – so founders Paul Heaton and David Hemmingway sarcastically came up with their new name and where their previous group relied on jazzy guitars and witty, wry lyrics, the Beautiful South boasted a more sophisticated, jazzy pop sound, layered with keyboards, R&B-inflected female backing vocals and, occasionally, light orchestrations. Often, the group's relaxed, catchy songs contradicted the sarcastic, cynical thrust of the lyrics.
The group broke up in January 2007, claiming the split was due to "musical similarities", having sold around 6,500,000 records worldwide.
In January 2009, it was announced that the former members Dave Hemingway, Alison Wheeler, and Dave Stead would reform under the name New Beautiful South which was later changed to The South.
Though the group never found a niche in America -- by the middle of the decade, their records weren't even being released in the U.S. -- their string of melodic jazz-pop singles made them one of the most successful bands in Britain.
Their popularity was confirmed by the astonishing success of their 1994 singles compilation, Carry on Up the Charts, which became one of the biggest-selling albums in British history.
"Perfect 10" was released in 1998. It reached number two in the UK charts. The song also appeared on their album Quench.
The song consists of a series of comments and puns about a relationship between a man and woman using clothing sizes and penis length in the lyrics.
The title itself has a double meaning - "Perfect 10" referring to a person who scores 10 out of 10 for attractiveness and desirability, but also referring to a size 10 (in UK women's clothing measurement) which the male singer (Paul Heaton) suggests is the perfect size for his woman, while the female singer suggest 8 inches is the perfect penis size.
Other weight and size-related lyric puns in the song include: "Anorexic chicks, the model 6, they don't hold no weight with me", and from the female singer (Jacqui Abbott): "If he's XXL, well what the hell, every penny don't fit the slot" and "When he's at my gate, with a big fat 8, you wanna see the smile on my face".
"Perfect 10" was seen as a 'tour classic' by The Beautiful South and it has been stated by Dave Stead that "There are certain songs you just can't leave out...I think we would be lynched if we didn't play "Keep It All In", "Don't Marry Her" and "Perfect 10"."
Notably, the song lyrics contain the phrase "what the hell", which usually remains uncensored on radio stations.
Later additions included female vocalist Briana Corrigan; she was replaced by Jacqui Abbott, who in turn was replaced by Alison Wheeler.
The Housemartins had a dower northern reputation – they came from Hull – so founders Paul Heaton and David Hemmingway sarcastically came up with their new name and where their previous group relied on jazzy guitars and witty, wry lyrics, the Beautiful South boasted a more sophisticated, jazzy pop sound, layered with keyboards, R&B-inflected female backing vocals and, occasionally, light orchestrations. Often, the group's relaxed, catchy songs contradicted the sarcastic, cynical thrust of the lyrics.
The group broke up in January 2007, claiming the split was due to "musical similarities", having sold around 6,500,000 records worldwide.
In January 2009, it was announced that the former members Dave Hemingway, Alison Wheeler, and Dave Stead would reform under the name New Beautiful South which was later changed to The South.
Though the group never found a niche in America -- by the middle of the decade, their records weren't even being released in the U.S. -- their string of melodic jazz-pop singles made them one of the most successful bands in Britain.
Their popularity was confirmed by the astonishing success of their 1994 singles compilation, Carry on Up the Charts, which became one of the biggest-selling albums in British history.
"Perfect 10" was released in 1998. It reached number two in the UK charts. The song also appeared on their album Quench.
The song consists of a series of comments and puns about a relationship between a man and woman using clothing sizes and penis length in the lyrics.
The title itself has a double meaning - "Perfect 10" referring to a person who scores 10 out of 10 for attractiveness and desirability, but also referring to a size 10 (in UK women's clothing measurement) which the male singer (Paul Heaton) suggests is the perfect size for his woman, while the female singer suggest 8 inches is the perfect penis size.
Other weight and size-related lyric puns in the song include: "Anorexic chicks, the model 6, they don't hold no weight with me", and from the female singer (Jacqui Abbott): "If he's XXL, well what the hell, every penny don't fit the slot" and "When he's at my gate, with a big fat 8, you wanna see the smile on my face".
"Perfect 10" was seen as a 'tour classic' by The Beautiful South and it has been stated by Dave Stead that "There are certain songs you just can't leave out...I think we would be lynched if we didn't play "Keep It All In", "Don't Marry Her" and "Perfect 10"."
Notably, the song lyrics contain the phrase "what the hell", which usually remains uncensored on radio stations.
The Housemartins - Happy Hour
The Housemartins were an English indie pop band that was formed in late 1983 by Paul Heaton (vocals) and Stan Cullimore (guitar) who initially performed as a busking duo.
They expanded very soon by recruiting Ted Key (bass), and finally Dave Hemingway as a drummer.
They have recorded two albums , London 0 Hull 4 (1986, UK # 3) and The People Who Grinned Themselves to Death (1987, UK # 9) and five of their singles reached Top 20.
Their greatest success was "Caravan of Love" which hit UK # 1 in November 1986.
The band split in 1988, but the members have since remained friends and worked on each other's projects. Norman Cook has enjoyed significant success with both Beats International and then as Fatboy Slim, while Heaton, Hemingway and roadie Sean Welch formed The Beautiful South.
"Happy Hour" reached #3 in the UK Singles Chart in May 1986. The single's success was helped by a claymation animated pop promo of a type that was in vogue at the time, featuring a cameo by television comedian Phill Jupitus, who toured with the band under his stage name of 'Porky the Poet'.
They expanded very soon by recruiting Ted Key (bass), and finally Dave Hemingway as a drummer.
They have recorded two albums , London 0 Hull 4 (1986, UK # 3) and The People Who Grinned Themselves to Death (1987, UK # 9) and five of their singles reached Top 20.
Their greatest success was "Caravan of Love" which hit UK # 1 in November 1986.
The band split in 1988, but the members have since remained friends and worked on each other's projects. Norman Cook has enjoyed significant success with both Beats International and then as Fatboy Slim, while Heaton, Hemingway and roadie Sean Welch formed The Beautiful South.
"Happy Hour" reached #3 in the UK Singles Chart in May 1986. The single's success was helped by a claymation animated pop promo of a type that was in vogue at the time, featuring a cameo by television comedian Phill Jupitus, who toured with the band under his stage name of 'Porky the Poet'.
All About Eve - Martha's Harbour
All About Eve emerged on the late 80s UK "gothic" scene. The creative core consisted of the Coventry born Julianne Regan (vocals), and the Huddersfield born Andy Cousin (bass guitar), with other members changing over the years.
All About Eve developed a solid following and with a backdrop of hippie mysticism and imagery, along with Regan's predilection for white-witchcraft and Tarot cards, provided a taste of the exotic with a mixture of goth rock and 70s folk.
The band's tenure ran between 1984 and 2004, and included four UK Top 50 albums.
In between, Regan went on to form Mice in 1995, and to work with Bernard Butler, and she teamed up with Jean-Marc Lederman in the Jules et Jim project.
"Martha's Harbour" is their 1988 hit single. It has become known as the group's signature song, reaching #10 in the UK Singles Chart and helping the group's self-titled debut album reach #7 in the UK albums chart.
The song is also well-known for an incident on the popular BBC UK music show Top of the Pops, when the group, ready to do a mimed (as was BBC policy at the time) performance of their hit, were not played the backing track through their monitors, and so sat motionless while the television and studio audience could hear the song. Due to this error on the part of the BBC, the band were invited back the following week and insisted on playing the song live.
One of the main reasons they are remembered but it probably contributed to their success at the time - this single rose up the charts for the next two weeks!
On its creation, Julianne Reagan has said, in an interview on BBC radio, "This song happened by accident when we were recording the first album. It was one of those things when we had the day off and we were sat in this very idyllic setting beneath a willow tree besides a stream by this beautiful residential recording studio and it just came out so naturally. It was a miracle of a little song and its very dear to us because of that, because it was very pure, a really happy accident.
Everybody went to the pub and we put it down and by the time they got back Martha's Harbour was committed to tape. Martha's Harbour is a fictitious backdrop for this happening."
All About Eve developed a solid following and with a backdrop of hippie mysticism and imagery, along with Regan's predilection for white-witchcraft and Tarot cards, provided a taste of the exotic with a mixture of goth rock and 70s folk.
The band's tenure ran between 1984 and 2004, and included four UK Top 50 albums.
In between, Regan went on to form Mice in 1995, and to work with Bernard Butler, and she teamed up with Jean-Marc Lederman in the Jules et Jim project.
"Martha's Harbour" is their 1988 hit single. It has become known as the group's signature song, reaching #10 in the UK Singles Chart and helping the group's self-titled debut album reach #7 in the UK albums chart.
The song is also well-known for an incident on the popular BBC UK music show Top of the Pops, when the group, ready to do a mimed (as was BBC policy at the time) performance of their hit, were not played the backing track through their monitors, and so sat motionless while the television and studio audience could hear the song. Due to this error on the part of the BBC, the band were invited back the following week and insisted on playing the song live.
One of the main reasons they are remembered but it probably contributed to their success at the time - this single rose up the charts for the next two weeks!
On its creation, Julianne Reagan has said, in an interview on BBC radio, "This song happened by accident when we were recording the first album. It was one of those things when we had the day off and we were sat in this very idyllic setting beneath a willow tree besides a stream by this beautiful residential recording studio and it just came out so naturally. It was a miracle of a little song and its very dear to us because of that, because it was very pure, a really happy accident.
Everybody went to the pub and we put it down and by the time they got back Martha's Harbour was committed to tape. Martha's Harbour is a fictitious backdrop for this happening."
Thursday, February 17, 2011
This day in music history
1960, Elvis Presley won his first Gold record for the album 'Elvis'.
1960, The Everly Brothers signed a $1 million (£1.7 million) contract with Warner Brothers Records.
1966, Nancy Sinatra was at No.1 on the UK singles chart with 'These Boots Are Made For Walking', Frank's eldest daughters first No.1.
1968, Diana Ross And The Supremes 'Greatest Hits' started a three-week run at No.1 on the UK album chart.
1969, Bob Dylan and Johnny Cash recorded 'Girl From The North Country' together in Nashville at CBS Studios. The track appeared on Dylan's 'Nashville Skyline' album.
1970, Joni Mitchell announced she was retiring from live performances during a concert at London's Royal Albert Hall. Joni was on stage again by the end of the year.
1979, Blondie scored their first UK No.1 album when 'Parallel Lines' started a four-week run at the top of the charts, featuring the singles 'Heart Of Glass', 'Hanging On The Telephone' and 'Sunday Girl.'
2004, Winners at this year’s Brit awards included, Daniel Bedingfield who won Best British male, Dido won Best British Female, The Darkness won Best British group, Best Rock group and Best British album with ‘Permission To Land’, Busted won British Breakthrough act and Duran Duran won Outstanding Contribution to Music.
2005, Scottish rockers Franz Ferdinand made music history after taking two top prizes at the NME Awards. The band, who won best album and best single, became the first act ever to win the Mercury Music Prize, Brit Awards and NME awards in the same year.
2008, British soul singer Duffy started a five week run at No.1 on the UK singles chart with 'Mercy', from the Welsh singers debut album 'Rockferry'. 'Mercy' was the UK'S best selling single of 2008, and won Duffy a Grammy for Best Female Pop Vocal Performance.
1905, Born on this day, Orville “Hoppy” Jones, bass singer and cello player with the Ink Spots, who had a 1955 UK No.10 single with ‘Melody Of Love’. He Died 18th October 1944.
1922, Born on this day, Tommy Edwards, singer (1958 US & UK No.1 single with ‘Its All In The Game'). The song was written by US Vice President Charles Dawes. Edwards died on October 22nd 1968, aged 47.
1933, Born on this day, Bobby Lewis, US singer, (1961 US No.1 single 'Tossin' and Turnin').
1939, Born on this day, John Leyton, UK singer, actor, (1961 UK No.1 single 'Johnny Remember Me').
1941, Born on this day, Gene Pitney, singer, (1962 US No.4 single 'Only Love Can Break A Heart'. 1967 solo UK No.5 & 1989 UK No.1 single with Marc Almond 'Something's Gotten Hold Of My Heart', plus over 15 other US & UK Top 40 hits). Pitney was found dead aged 65 in his bed in a Cardiff hotel on 5th April 2006. The American singer was on a UK tour and had shown no signs of illness.
1972, Born on this day, Billie Joe Armstrong, guitarist and vocalist with Green Day, (1995 UK No.7 single with ‘Basket Case’). 1994 album Dookie has sold over 10 million copies. Top Modern Rock Act in US in 1985.
1981, Born on this day, John Hassall, bassist, The Libertines, (2004 UK No.1 album ‘The Libertines’).
1960, The Everly Brothers signed a $1 million (£1.7 million) contract with Warner Brothers Records.
1966, Nancy Sinatra was at No.1 on the UK singles chart with 'These Boots Are Made For Walking', Frank's eldest daughters first No.1.
1968, Diana Ross And The Supremes 'Greatest Hits' started a three-week run at No.1 on the UK album chart.
1969, Bob Dylan and Johnny Cash recorded 'Girl From The North Country' together in Nashville at CBS Studios. The track appeared on Dylan's 'Nashville Skyline' album.
1970, Joni Mitchell announced she was retiring from live performances during a concert at London's Royal Albert Hall. Joni was on stage again by the end of the year.
1979, Blondie scored their first UK No.1 album when 'Parallel Lines' started a four-week run at the top of the charts, featuring the singles 'Heart Of Glass', 'Hanging On The Telephone' and 'Sunday Girl.'
2004, Winners at this year’s Brit awards included, Daniel Bedingfield who won Best British male, Dido won Best British Female, The Darkness won Best British group, Best Rock group and Best British album with ‘Permission To Land’, Busted won British Breakthrough act and Duran Duran won Outstanding Contribution to Music.
2005, Scottish rockers Franz Ferdinand made music history after taking two top prizes at the NME Awards. The band, who won best album and best single, became the first act ever to win the Mercury Music Prize, Brit Awards and NME awards in the same year.
2008, British soul singer Duffy started a five week run at No.1 on the UK singles chart with 'Mercy', from the Welsh singers debut album 'Rockferry'. 'Mercy' was the UK'S best selling single of 2008, and won Duffy a Grammy for Best Female Pop Vocal Performance.
1905, Born on this day, Orville “Hoppy” Jones, bass singer and cello player with the Ink Spots, who had a 1955 UK No.10 single with ‘Melody Of Love’. He Died 18th October 1944.
1922, Born on this day, Tommy Edwards, singer (1958 US & UK No.1 single with ‘Its All In The Game'). The song was written by US Vice President Charles Dawes. Edwards died on October 22nd 1968, aged 47.
1933, Born on this day, Bobby Lewis, US singer, (1961 US No.1 single 'Tossin' and Turnin').
1939, Born on this day, John Leyton, UK singer, actor, (1961 UK No.1 single 'Johnny Remember Me').
1941, Born on this day, Gene Pitney, singer, (1962 US No.4 single 'Only Love Can Break A Heart'. 1967 solo UK No.5 & 1989 UK No.1 single with Marc Almond 'Something's Gotten Hold Of My Heart', plus over 15 other US & UK Top 40 hits). Pitney was found dead aged 65 in his bed in a Cardiff hotel on 5th April 2006. The American singer was on a UK tour and had shown no signs of illness.
1972, Born on this day, Billie Joe Armstrong, guitarist and vocalist with Green Day, (1995 UK No.7 single with ‘Basket Case’). 1994 album Dookie has sold over 10 million copies. Top Modern Rock Act in US in 1985.
1981, Born on this day, John Hassall, bassist, The Libertines, (2004 UK No.1 album ‘The Libertines’).
Lynyrd Skynyrd - Free Bird
Lynyrd Skynyrd is an American rock band, formed in Jacksonville, Florida in 1964. The band became prominent in the Southern United States in 1973, and rose to worldwide recognition.
Three members and one road crew member died in an airplane crash in 1977
The band reformed in 1987 for a reunion tour with lead singer Ronnie Van Zant's younger brother Johnny as the frontman. Lynyrd Skynyrd continues to tour and record. Of its original members, only Gary Rossington remains with the band as of 2011.
Their name is a mocking tribute to a physical-education teacher at their High School, Leonard Skinner,who was notorious for strictly enforcing the school's policy against boys having long hair. Southern accent is responsible for the final spelling of their name.
In 2004, Rolling Stone magazine ranked the group #95 on their list of the 100 Greatest Artists of All Time. On March 13, 2006, Lynyrd Skynyrd was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame at the 21st annual induction ceremony.
"Free Bird" was first featured on the band's debut album in 1973, and has been included on subsequent albums released by the band.
Released as a single in November 1974, "Free Bird" became the band's second Top 40 hit on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in early 1975, where it peaked at No. 19. A live version of the song also reached the Billboard Hot 100 chart in 1977, peaking at No. 38.
"Free Bird" is included in such lists as The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame's 500 Songs that Shaped Rock and Roll, and Rolling Stone's 500 Greatest Songs of All Time (holding spot No. 191).
Free Bird also achieved the No. 3 spot on Guitar World's 100 Greatest Guitar Solos.
The song was used as a finale by Lynyrd Skynyrd during their live performances, and was their longest song, often going well over 14 minutes when played live.
Following the plane crash in 1977 in which several band members were killed, all of the songs played by surviving members were performed as instrumentals .
When "Free Bird" came up, a solitary microphone with a single spotlight would be at center stage while the band played the instrumental version.
Three members and one road crew member died in an airplane crash in 1977
The band reformed in 1987 for a reunion tour with lead singer Ronnie Van Zant's younger brother Johnny as the frontman. Lynyrd Skynyrd continues to tour and record. Of its original members, only Gary Rossington remains with the band as of 2011.
Their name is a mocking tribute to a physical-education teacher at their High School, Leonard Skinner,who was notorious for strictly enforcing the school's policy against boys having long hair. Southern accent is responsible for the final spelling of their name.
In 2004, Rolling Stone magazine ranked the group #95 on their list of the 100 Greatest Artists of All Time. On March 13, 2006, Lynyrd Skynyrd was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame at the 21st annual induction ceremony.
"Free Bird" was first featured on the band's debut album in 1973, and has been included on subsequent albums released by the band.
Released as a single in November 1974, "Free Bird" became the band's second Top 40 hit on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in early 1975, where it peaked at No. 19. A live version of the song also reached the Billboard Hot 100 chart in 1977, peaking at No. 38.
"Free Bird" is included in such lists as The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame's 500 Songs that Shaped Rock and Roll, and Rolling Stone's 500 Greatest Songs of All Time (holding spot No. 191).
Free Bird also achieved the No. 3 spot on Guitar World's 100 Greatest Guitar Solos.
The song was used as a finale by Lynyrd Skynyrd during their live performances, and was their longest song, often going well over 14 minutes when played live.
Following the plane crash in 1977 in which several band members were killed, all of the songs played by surviving members were performed as instrumentals .
When "Free Bird" came up, a solitary microphone with a single spotlight would be at center stage while the band played the instrumental version.
Toto - Hold the Line
Toto is an American rock band, founded in 1977 by some of the most sought after session musicians of the era. Prior to the formation of the band, Toto members, who were locals of Hartford, Connecticut, were regulars on albums by Steely Dan, Seals and Crofts, Boz Scaggs, Sonny and Cher, and many others, contributing to many of the most popular records of the 1970s.
Toto is known for a musical style that combines elements of pop, rock, soul, funk, progressive rock, hard rock, R&B and jazz. Although they were regularly associated with the soft rock genre, Toto's broad array of musical styles helps them appeal to a variety of listeners.
The band enjoyed great commercial success in the late 1970s and 1980s, beginning with the band's self-titled debut released in 1978.
With the release of 1982's critically acclaimed and commercially successful Toto IV, Toto became one of the best-selling music groups of their era.
The band has released 17 albums and have sold over 30 million records to date. Their 18th album, Falling In Between Live, was released in August 2007, a live release recorded in March 2007 in Paris.
Although their popularity in the United States diminished in the 1990s and 2000s, they remained popular internationally, playing only a minimal number of shows in the USA.
"Hold the Line" was the band's very first single, and was featured on their debut eponymous album.
It was also a #5 success single in the US and # 14 in UK during the winter of 1978–79.
It was written by the band's primary songwriter David Paich, which as he said:
"It started out with the piano riff that is in the intro. I started playing this riff and I just couldn't stop playing it.
I played it for days, and I started singing, "Hold the line, love isn't always on time." It was a phrase that just came into my head. . . . it was a blessing. (The words) came to me in the night, and then I went to the verse. I wrote it in 2 hours.
Sometimes songs come quickly like that, and sometimes I spend 2 years trying to finish a song."
Toto is known for a musical style that combines elements of pop, rock, soul, funk, progressive rock, hard rock, R&B and jazz. Although they were regularly associated with the soft rock genre, Toto's broad array of musical styles helps them appeal to a variety of listeners.
The band enjoyed great commercial success in the late 1970s and 1980s, beginning with the band's self-titled debut released in 1978.
With the release of 1982's critically acclaimed and commercially successful Toto IV, Toto became one of the best-selling music groups of their era.
The band has released 17 albums and have sold over 30 million records to date. Their 18th album, Falling In Between Live, was released in August 2007, a live release recorded in March 2007 in Paris.
Although their popularity in the United States diminished in the 1990s and 2000s, they remained popular internationally, playing only a minimal number of shows in the USA.
"Hold the Line" was the band's very first single, and was featured on their debut eponymous album.
It was also a #5 success single in the US and # 14 in UK during the winter of 1978–79.
It was written by the band's primary songwriter David Paich, which as he said:
"It started out with the piano riff that is in the intro. I started playing this riff and I just couldn't stop playing it.
I played it for days, and I started singing, "Hold the line, love isn't always on time." It was a phrase that just came into my head. . . . it was a blessing. (The words) came to me in the night, and then I went to the verse. I wrote it in 2 hours.
Sometimes songs come quickly like that, and sometimes I spend 2 years trying to finish a song."
Santana - Europa (Earth's Cry Heaven's Smile)
Santana is a rock band based around guitarist Carlos Santana and founded in the late 1960s.
It first came to public attention after their performance at the Woodstock Festival in 1969, when their Latin rock provided a contrast to other acts on the bill.
This initial exposure made their first, eponymous album a hit at the time, followed in the next two years by successful follow-ups Abraxas and Santana III.
Over the next few years, lineup changes were common and frequent, and although retaining a basis of Latin rock, Carlos Santana's increasing involvement with guru Sri Chinmoy took the band further into more esoteric music, which continued for many years, although never quite losing the initial Latin influence.
In 1998, the group was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, with Carlos Santana, Jose Chepito Areas, David Brown, Mike Carabello, Gregg Rolie and Michael Shrieve being honored.
Santana has achieved a total of eight Grammy Awards and three Latin Grammy Awards which were all awarded in 2000. Carlos also won two Grammy Awards as a solo artist in 1989 and 2003.
"Europa (Earth's Cry Heaven's Smile)" is an instrumental from the Santana album Amigos in 1976.
One of Santana's most popular songs. It is sometimes a common staple on classic rock radio stations and oldies radio stations.
It first came to public attention after their performance at the Woodstock Festival in 1969, when their Latin rock provided a contrast to other acts on the bill.
This initial exposure made their first, eponymous album a hit at the time, followed in the next two years by successful follow-ups Abraxas and Santana III.
Over the next few years, lineup changes were common and frequent, and although retaining a basis of Latin rock, Carlos Santana's increasing involvement with guru Sri Chinmoy took the band further into more esoteric music, which continued for many years, although never quite losing the initial Latin influence.
In 1998, the group was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, with Carlos Santana, Jose Chepito Areas, David Brown, Mike Carabello, Gregg Rolie and Michael Shrieve being honored.
Santana has achieved a total of eight Grammy Awards and three Latin Grammy Awards which were all awarded in 2000. Carlos also won two Grammy Awards as a solo artist in 1989 and 2003.
"Europa (Earth's Cry Heaven's Smile)" is an instrumental from the Santana album Amigos in 1976.
One of Santana's most popular songs. It is sometimes a common staple on classic rock radio stations and oldies radio stations.
Wednesday, February 16, 2011
This day in music history
1959, Shirley Bassey was at No.1 on the UK singles chart with 'As I Love You', the Welsh singers first of two UK No.1's.
1964, The Beatles made their second live appearance on The Ed Sullivan Show, exactly one week after the first. Before an audience of 3,500 at the Deauville Hotel in Miami Beach, Florida, The Beatles performed ‘She Loves You’, ‘This Boy’, ‘All My Loving’, ‘I Saw Her Standing There’, ‘From Me to You’, and ‘I Want to Hold Your Hand’.
1967, Petula Clark was at No.1 on the UK singles chart with the Charlie Chaplin penned 'This Is My Song', the singers second and last UK No.1.
1974, Bob Dylan started a four-week run at No.1 on the US album chart with 'Planet Waves', his first US No.1.
1974, Winners in the UK music weekly Disc Readers Awards Poll; Top UK group went to Slade, Top musician, Roy Wood, David Bowie won UK and World male singer, Top single with 'Jean Genie' and album with 'Aladdin Sane', Top female singer was Lynsey De Paul and Brightest hope was won by David Essex.
1982, The Jam were at No.1 on the UK singles chart with 'A Town Called Malice', & 'Precious', their third No.1 spent three weeks at the top of the chart.
1985, Bruce Springsteen went to No.1 on the UK album chart with 'Born In The USA', his first UK No.1 album.
1985, 'Careless Whisper', started a three-week run at No.1 in the US charts, credited to Wham! Featuring George Michael, this was the duos second US No.1.
1991, Queen scored their seventh UK No.1 album with 'Innuendo.'
1999, Robbie Williams won three awards at this year's Brit's. The singer won Best British solo artist, Best Single for 'Angels' and Best Video for 'Millennium.' Manic Street Preachers won Best British Group, Natalie Imbruglia won Best International Female artist and Best Newcomer, Best International Group went to The Corrs.
2003, Massive Attack went to No.1 on the UK album chart with ‘100th Window.’
2003, 50 Cent was at No.1 on the US album chart with his debut album ‘Get Rich or Die Tryin’, a No.2 hit in the UK.
2004, US singer Doris Troy died. She had been a session singer with Dionne Warwick, sang on Pink Floyd’s Dark Side Of The Moon and released an album on The Beatles’ Apple label. She had also had a 1964 UK No.37 single with ‘Whatcha Gonna Do About It’ and a 1963 US No. 10 hit ‘Just One Look’.
1932, Born on this day, Otis Blackwell, American songwriter and producer, wrote ‘All Shook Up’, ‘Return To Sender’, ‘Don't Be Cruel’, ‘Great Balls Of Fire’ and ‘Fever.’ Died from a heart attack on May 6th 2002.
1935, Born on this day, Sonny Bono, singer, (1965 UK & US No.1 single 'I Got You Babe', with Cher). Became a US Congressman. Killed on 5th January 1997, aged 62, in a skiing accident.
1961, Born on this day, Andy Taylor, guitar, Duran Duran, (1983 UK No.1 single 'Is There Something I Should Know' plus 25 other UK Top 40 singles, 1984 US No.1 single 'The Reflex'), The Power Station, (1985 UK No.14 single 'Some Like It Hot').
1965, Born on this day, Dave Lombardo, drums, Slayer, (1995 UK No.50 single 'Serenity In Murder').
1964, The Beatles made their second live appearance on The Ed Sullivan Show, exactly one week after the first. Before an audience of 3,500 at the Deauville Hotel in Miami Beach, Florida, The Beatles performed ‘She Loves You’, ‘This Boy’, ‘All My Loving’, ‘I Saw Her Standing There’, ‘From Me to You’, and ‘I Want to Hold Your Hand’.
1967, Petula Clark was at No.1 on the UK singles chart with the Charlie Chaplin penned 'This Is My Song', the singers second and last UK No.1.
1974, Bob Dylan started a four-week run at No.1 on the US album chart with 'Planet Waves', his first US No.1.
1974, Winners in the UK music weekly Disc Readers Awards Poll; Top UK group went to Slade, Top musician, Roy Wood, David Bowie won UK and World male singer, Top single with 'Jean Genie' and album with 'Aladdin Sane', Top female singer was Lynsey De Paul and Brightest hope was won by David Essex.
1982, The Jam were at No.1 on the UK singles chart with 'A Town Called Malice', & 'Precious', their third No.1 spent three weeks at the top of the chart.
1985, Bruce Springsteen went to No.1 on the UK album chart with 'Born In The USA', his first UK No.1 album.
1985, 'Careless Whisper', started a three-week run at No.1 in the US charts, credited to Wham! Featuring George Michael, this was the duos second US No.1.
1991, Queen scored their seventh UK No.1 album with 'Innuendo.'
1999, Robbie Williams won three awards at this year's Brit's. The singer won Best British solo artist, Best Single for 'Angels' and Best Video for 'Millennium.' Manic Street Preachers won Best British Group, Natalie Imbruglia won Best International Female artist and Best Newcomer, Best International Group went to The Corrs.
2003, Massive Attack went to No.1 on the UK album chart with ‘100th Window.’
2003, 50 Cent was at No.1 on the US album chart with his debut album ‘Get Rich or Die Tryin’, a No.2 hit in the UK.
2004, US singer Doris Troy died. She had been a session singer with Dionne Warwick, sang on Pink Floyd’s Dark Side Of The Moon and released an album on The Beatles’ Apple label. She had also had a 1964 UK No.37 single with ‘Whatcha Gonna Do About It’ and a 1963 US No. 10 hit ‘Just One Look’.
1932, Born on this day, Otis Blackwell, American songwriter and producer, wrote ‘All Shook Up’, ‘Return To Sender’, ‘Don't Be Cruel’, ‘Great Balls Of Fire’ and ‘Fever.’ Died from a heart attack on May 6th 2002.
1935, Born on this day, Sonny Bono, singer, (1965 UK & US No.1 single 'I Got You Babe', with Cher). Became a US Congressman. Killed on 5th January 1997, aged 62, in a skiing accident.
1961, Born on this day, Andy Taylor, guitar, Duran Duran, (1983 UK No.1 single 'Is There Something I Should Know' plus 25 other UK Top 40 singles, 1984 US No.1 single 'The Reflex'), The Power Station, (1985 UK No.14 single 'Some Like It Hot').
1965, Born on this day, Dave Lombardo, drums, Slayer, (1995 UK No.50 single 'Serenity In Murder').
Bob Dylan - Blowin' in the Wind
Bob Dylan (born Robert Allen Zimmerman; May 24, 1941) is an American singer-songwriter who has been a major figure in music for five decades.
His early lyrics incorporated a variety of political, social and philosophical, as well as literary influences. Initially inspired by the songs of Woody Guthrie, Robert Johnson, Hank Williams, and the performance styles of Buddy Holly and Little Richard, Dylan has explored numerous distinct traditions in American song—from folk, blues and country to gospel, rock and roll, and rockabilly, to English, Scottish, and Irish folk music, embracing even jazz and swing.
A number of his songs such as "Blowin' in the Wind" and "The Times They Are a-Changin'" became anthems for the US civil rights and anti-war movements.
Although Dylan was an influential pop figure during the youth movement of the 1960s, his first number one hit, "Knocking on Heaven's Door," didn't come until 1973.
During the '80s he toured extensively, and in the '90s his songs found a new audience and more acclaim from the music industry:
in 1991 he was given a Lifetime Achievement Grammy; his 1997 album Time Out of Mind won three Grammys; and in 2001 Dylan won an Oscar for "Things Have Changed," from the movie Wonder Boys (2000).
He has been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame, and Songwriters Hall of Fame.
The Pulitzer Prize jury in 2008 awarded him a special citation for "his profound impact on popular music and American culture, marked by lyrical compositions of extraordinary poetic power."
“Blowin' in the Wind" was released on his 1963 album The Freewheelin' Bob Dylan. Although it has been described as a protest song, it poses a series of questions about peace, war, and freedom.
The refrain "The answer, my friend, is blowin' in the wind" has been described as "impenetrably ambiguous: either the answer is so obvious it is right in your face, or the answer is as intangible as the wind".
In 1999, the song was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame. In 2004, it was ranked #14 on Rolling Stone magazine's list of the "500 Greatest Songs of All Time".
His early lyrics incorporated a variety of political, social and philosophical, as well as literary influences. Initially inspired by the songs of Woody Guthrie, Robert Johnson, Hank Williams, and the performance styles of Buddy Holly and Little Richard, Dylan has explored numerous distinct traditions in American song—from folk, blues and country to gospel, rock and roll, and rockabilly, to English, Scottish, and Irish folk music, embracing even jazz and swing.
A number of his songs such as "Blowin' in the Wind" and "The Times They Are a-Changin'" became anthems for the US civil rights and anti-war movements.
Although Dylan was an influential pop figure during the youth movement of the 1960s, his first number one hit, "Knocking on Heaven's Door," didn't come until 1973.
During the '80s he toured extensively, and in the '90s his songs found a new audience and more acclaim from the music industry:
in 1991 he was given a Lifetime Achievement Grammy; his 1997 album Time Out of Mind won three Grammys; and in 2001 Dylan won an Oscar for "Things Have Changed," from the movie Wonder Boys (2000).
He has been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame, and Songwriters Hall of Fame.
The Pulitzer Prize jury in 2008 awarded him a special citation for "his profound impact on popular music and American culture, marked by lyrical compositions of extraordinary poetic power."
“Blowin' in the Wind" was released on his 1963 album The Freewheelin' Bob Dylan. Although it has been described as a protest song, it poses a series of questions about peace, war, and freedom.
The refrain "The answer, my friend, is blowin' in the wind" has been described as "impenetrably ambiguous: either the answer is so obvious it is right in your face, or the answer is as intangible as the wind".
In 1999, the song was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame. In 2004, it was ranked #14 on Rolling Stone magazine's list of the "500 Greatest Songs of All Time".
The Mamas & the Papas - California Dreamin'
The Mamas & the Papas were an American vocal group of the 1960s. The band members were John Phillips (1935-2001),Denny Doherty (1941-2007),Michelle Phillips (born 1944),Cass Elliot (1941-1974)
The group recorded and performed from 1965 to 1968 with a short reunion in 1971, releasing five albums and 11 Top 40 hit singles.
They have sold nearly 100 million records worldwide.Their signature sound was based on four-part male/female vocal harmonies arranged by John Phillips.
The Mamas and the Papas were inducted to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 1998, the Vocal Group Hall of Fame in 2000 and the Hit Parade Hall of Fame in 2009.
"California Dreamin'" was first released in 1965 and quickly peaked at number 4 in the US, while in the UK, it peaked at number 23. It was re-released in the UK and peaked at number nine in 1997.
The song is #89 in Rolling Stone's list of The 500 Greatest Songs of All Time. The lyrics of the song are about a man in a cold winter landscape longing for the warmth of California.
Some high profile artists who have covered this song include R.E.M., The Beach Boys, America (two versions),José Feliciano (B-side on his 1968 hit single Light My Fire), The Carpenters, the Four Tops, Bobby Womack, The Seekers, George Benson, Raquel Welch, Papas.
The Beach Boys recorded a second version of "California Dreamin'" in 1986 for their greatest hits compilation Made in U.S.A.. It was produced by Terry Melcher and featured Roger McGuinn from The Byrds on 12-string guitar and John Phillips on saxophone.
The group recorded and performed from 1965 to 1968 with a short reunion in 1971, releasing five albums and 11 Top 40 hit singles.
They have sold nearly 100 million records worldwide.Their signature sound was based on four-part male/female vocal harmonies arranged by John Phillips.
The Mamas and the Papas were inducted to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 1998, the Vocal Group Hall of Fame in 2000 and the Hit Parade Hall of Fame in 2009.
"California Dreamin'" was first released in 1965 and quickly peaked at number 4 in the US, while in the UK, it peaked at number 23. It was re-released in the UK and peaked at number nine in 1997.
The song is #89 in Rolling Stone's list of The 500 Greatest Songs of All Time. The lyrics of the song are about a man in a cold winter landscape longing for the warmth of California.
Some high profile artists who have covered this song include R.E.M., The Beach Boys, America (two versions),José Feliciano (B-side on his 1968 hit single Light My Fire), The Carpenters, the Four Tops, Bobby Womack, The Seekers, George Benson, Raquel Welch, Papas.
The Beach Boys recorded a second version of "California Dreamin'" in 1986 for their greatest hits compilation Made in U.S.A.. It was produced by Terry Melcher and featured Roger McGuinn from The Byrds on 12-string guitar and John Phillips on saxophone.
Del Shannon - Runaway
Del Shannon (December 30, 1934 – February 8, 1990) was an American rock and roll singer-songwriter. Ηε was born as Charles Weedon Westover in Michigan.
On January 21, 1961, he recorded "Runaway", and released it as a single in February 1961. The song was written by Shannon and keyboardist Max Crook, and became a major international hit.
It reached #1 in the Billboard chart in April 1961. It is #466 on Rolling Stone's list of The 500 Greatest Songs of All Time from 2004. Del Shannon re-recorded the song in 1967 under the name "Runaway '67".
Shannon followed with "Hats Off to Larry", which peaked at #5 (Billboard) and #2 on Cashbox in 1961, and the less popular "So Long, Baby," another song of breakup bitterness.
"Little Town Flirt", in 1962 (with Bob Babbitt), reached #12 in 1963, as did the album of the same name.
After these hits, Shannon was unable to keep his momentum in the U.S., but continued his success in England, where he had always been more popular.
In 1963, he became the first American to record a cover version of a Beatles song. "From Me to You" charted in the US before the Beatles.
Suffering from depression, Shannon committed suicide on February 8, 1990, with a .22 caliber rifle at his home in Santa Clarita, California.
Shannon was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1999, and his contributions have been recognised by the Rockabilly Hall of Fame.
On January 21, 1961, he recorded "Runaway", and released it as a single in February 1961. The song was written by Shannon and keyboardist Max Crook, and became a major international hit.
It reached #1 in the Billboard chart in April 1961. It is #466 on Rolling Stone's list of The 500 Greatest Songs of All Time from 2004. Del Shannon re-recorded the song in 1967 under the name "Runaway '67".
Shannon followed with "Hats Off to Larry", which peaked at #5 (Billboard) and #2 on Cashbox in 1961, and the less popular "So Long, Baby," another song of breakup bitterness.
"Little Town Flirt", in 1962 (with Bob Babbitt), reached #12 in 1963, as did the album of the same name.
After these hits, Shannon was unable to keep his momentum in the U.S., but continued his success in England, where he had always been more popular.
In 1963, he became the first American to record a cover version of a Beatles song. "From Me to You" charted in the US before the Beatles.
Suffering from depression, Shannon committed suicide on February 8, 1990, with a .22 caliber rifle at his home in Santa Clarita, California.
Shannon was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1999, and his contributions have been recognised by the Rockabilly Hall of Fame.
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
This day in music history
1961, Singer Jackie Wilson was left with a stomach wound after Juanita Jones a female fan went to his New York apartment demanding to see him. Jones' gun went off as he tried to disarm her.
1964, The Beatles scored their first US No.1 album with 'Meet The Beatles!' The album stayed at No.1 for eleven weeks.
1965, American singer and pianist Nat King Cole died of lung cancer. First hit was the 1943 'Straighten Up and Fly Right', had the 1955 US No.2 single 'A Blossom Fell' and 1957 UK No.2 single 'When I Fall In Love' plus over 20 other US & UK Top 40 singles. Father of singer Natalie Cole. In 1956 he became the first black American to host a television variety show.
1968, John and Cynthia Lennon, along with George and Patti Harrison, fly to India to study meditation with Maharishi Mahesh Yogi. Paul and Ringo joined them a few days later, but Starr would become bored and leave on March 1st comparing the experience to be like a 'Butlins holiday camp.' Much of the Beatles' 'White Album' was written during their stay.
1969, Sly and the Family Stone started a four week run at No.1 on the US singles chart with 'Everyday People', their first No.1.
1969, 'Diana Ross and The Supremes Join The Temptations' started a four week run at No.1 on the UK album chart.
1975, Linda Ronstadt went to No.1 on the US singles chart with 'You're No Good', the singers only solo chart topper out of 12 other top 40 hits. Also today Ronstadt went to No.1 on the US album chart with 'Heart Like A Wheel.'
1977, Glen Matlock was fired as bass player from The Sex Pistols, being replaced by Sid Vicious. Matlock rejoined in the 90's when the Pistol's reformed.
1981, American guitarist Mike Bloomfield was found dead in his car in San Francisco from an accidental heroin overdose. Member of the Paul Butterfield band and Electric Flag. Played on Bob Dylan's album 'Highway 61 Revisited.'
1986, Sade started a two-week run at No.1 on the US album chart with 'Promise.'
1997, Texas went to No.1 on the UK album chart with 'White On Blonde.'
1997, U2 went to No.1 on the UK singles chart with 'Discotheque', the bands third UK No.1 single. The entire track was leaked onto the internet in December 1996, forcing U2 to move the release date.
2002, Kerrang! Magazine overtook the New Musical Express for the first time to become the best selling UK weekly music publication. It claimed new bands such as Limp Bizkit and Linkin Park had given them a new teenage audience.
2004, Norah Jones scored her second UK No.1 album with ‘Feels Like Home.’
2006, Winners at this year’s Brit Awards included, James Blunt who won British male solo artist, British female solo artist went to KT Tunstall. Coldplay won Best British album for X&Y and Best British single for 'Speed of Sound.' Kaiser Chiefs won Best British group and Best British Live Act, British urban act went to Lemar, British breakthrough act was Arctic Monkeys, International breakthrough act was won by Jack Johnson. International male solo artist was Kanye West with Madonna winning International female solo artist. Green Day won International group and Best International album with American Idiot and Outstanding contribution to music went to Paul Weller.
2009, Lily Allen went to No.1 on the UK album chart with ‘It's Not Me, It's You’ the singers second album.
1941, Born on this day, Brian Holland, Holland/Dozier/Holland, producer, songwriter, wrote for Motown, Supremes, Marvin Gaye, Four Tops, Martha Reeves & The Vandellas, Freda Payne, Chairmen Of The Board.
1944, Born on this day, Denny Zager, singer, Zager and Evans, (1969 US & UK No.1 single 'In The Year 2525').
1944, Born on this day, Mick Avory, drums, The Kinks, (1964 UK No.1 & US No.7 'You Really Got Me', 1967 UK No.2 single 'Waterloo Sunset' plus 19 other UK Top 40 singles).
1952, Born on this day, Melissa Manchester, US singer, songwriter, (1975 US No.6 single 'Midnight Blue').
1959, Born on this day, Ali Campbell, vocals, UB40, (1983 UK No.1 & 1988 US No.1 single 'Red Red Wine' and over 30 other Top 40 hit singles) & solo (1995 UK No.5 single 'That Look In Your Eye').
1976, Born on this day, Ronnie Vannucci Jr, drummer, The Killers, (2005 UK No.1 with their debut album 'Hot Fuss').
1981, Born on this day, Olivia Theresa Longott, US R&B singer, member of G-Unit, (2005 US No.1 & UK No.4 single ‘Candy Shop’ with 50 Cent).
1964, The Beatles scored their first US No.1 album with 'Meet The Beatles!' The album stayed at No.1 for eleven weeks.
1965, American singer and pianist Nat King Cole died of lung cancer. First hit was the 1943 'Straighten Up and Fly Right', had the 1955 US No.2 single 'A Blossom Fell' and 1957 UK No.2 single 'When I Fall In Love' plus over 20 other US & UK Top 40 singles. Father of singer Natalie Cole. In 1956 he became the first black American to host a television variety show.
1968, John and Cynthia Lennon, along with George and Patti Harrison, fly to India to study meditation with Maharishi Mahesh Yogi. Paul and Ringo joined them a few days later, but Starr would become bored and leave on March 1st comparing the experience to be like a 'Butlins holiday camp.' Much of the Beatles' 'White Album' was written during their stay.
1969, Sly and the Family Stone started a four week run at No.1 on the US singles chart with 'Everyday People', their first No.1.
1969, 'Diana Ross and The Supremes Join The Temptations' started a four week run at No.1 on the UK album chart.
1975, Linda Ronstadt went to No.1 on the US singles chart with 'You're No Good', the singers only solo chart topper out of 12 other top 40 hits. Also today Ronstadt went to No.1 on the US album chart with 'Heart Like A Wheel.'
1977, Glen Matlock was fired as bass player from The Sex Pistols, being replaced by Sid Vicious. Matlock rejoined in the 90's when the Pistol's reformed.
1981, American guitarist Mike Bloomfield was found dead in his car in San Francisco from an accidental heroin overdose. Member of the Paul Butterfield band and Electric Flag. Played on Bob Dylan's album 'Highway 61 Revisited.'
1986, Sade started a two-week run at No.1 on the US album chart with 'Promise.'
1997, Texas went to No.1 on the UK album chart with 'White On Blonde.'
1997, U2 went to No.1 on the UK singles chart with 'Discotheque', the bands third UK No.1 single. The entire track was leaked onto the internet in December 1996, forcing U2 to move the release date.
2002, Kerrang! Magazine overtook the New Musical Express for the first time to become the best selling UK weekly music publication. It claimed new bands such as Limp Bizkit and Linkin Park had given them a new teenage audience.
2004, Norah Jones scored her second UK No.1 album with ‘Feels Like Home.’
2006, Winners at this year’s Brit Awards included, James Blunt who won British male solo artist, British female solo artist went to KT Tunstall. Coldplay won Best British album for X&Y and Best British single for 'Speed of Sound.' Kaiser Chiefs won Best British group and Best British Live Act, British urban act went to Lemar, British breakthrough act was Arctic Monkeys, International breakthrough act was won by Jack Johnson. International male solo artist was Kanye West with Madonna winning International female solo artist. Green Day won International group and Best International album with American Idiot and Outstanding contribution to music went to Paul Weller.
2009, Lily Allen went to No.1 on the UK album chart with ‘It's Not Me, It's You’ the singers second album.
1941, Born on this day, Brian Holland, Holland/Dozier/Holland, producer, songwriter, wrote for Motown, Supremes, Marvin Gaye, Four Tops, Martha Reeves & The Vandellas, Freda Payne, Chairmen Of The Board.
1944, Born on this day, Denny Zager, singer, Zager and Evans, (1969 US & UK No.1 single 'In The Year 2525').
1944, Born on this day, Mick Avory, drums, The Kinks, (1964 UK No.1 & US No.7 'You Really Got Me', 1967 UK No.2 single 'Waterloo Sunset' plus 19 other UK Top 40 singles).
1952, Born on this day, Melissa Manchester, US singer, songwriter, (1975 US No.6 single 'Midnight Blue').
1959, Born on this day, Ali Campbell, vocals, UB40, (1983 UK No.1 & 1988 US No.1 single 'Red Red Wine' and over 30 other Top 40 hit singles) & solo (1995 UK No.5 single 'That Look In Your Eye').
1976, Born on this day, Ronnie Vannucci Jr, drummer, The Killers, (2005 UK No.1 with their debut album 'Hot Fuss').
1981, Born on this day, Olivia Theresa Longott, US R&B singer, member of G-Unit, (2005 US No.1 & UK No.4 single ‘Candy Shop’ with 50 Cent).
Dion and the Belmonts - I Wonder Why
Dion and the Belmonts was a leading American vocal group of the late 1950s. The group formed when Dion DiMucci, lead singer, (born July 18, 1939), joined The Belmonts - Carlo Mastrangelo, baritone, (born October 5, 1938), Freddie Milano, second tenor, (born August 22, 1939), and Angelo D'Aleo, first tenor, (born February 3, 1940) in late 1957.
Their breakthrough came when "I Wonder Why" reached No. 22 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. They followed it with the ballads "No One Knows" (No. 19) and "Don’t Pity Me" (No. 40).
This success won Dion and the Belmonts their first major tour in late 1958, with The Coasters, Buddy Holly and Bobby Darin, and this was followed up by the "Winter Dance Party" tour with Holly, Ritchie Valens and The Big Bopper.
On 2 February 1959, after playing at the Surf Ballroom, Dion decided that he could not afford the $36 cost of a flight to the next venue. The plane crashed; Holly, Valens, The Big Bopper, and the pilot were killed on 3 February 1959, shortly after midnight.
In March 1959, Dion and the Belmonts’ next single, "A Teenager in Love", was released, reaching No. 5 on the Billboard Hot 100 and No. 28 in the UK Singles Chart, and this was followed by an album, Presenting Dion and the Belmonts.
Their biggest hit, "Where or When", was released in November 1959, and reached No. 3 on the Billboard Hot 100.
However, in early 1960, Dion checked into a hospital for heroin addiction, a problem he had had since his mid-teens. Other singles released for the group that year were less successful. In addition, there were musical and financial disputes between Dion and members of the Belmonts.
In October 1960, Dion decided to quit for a solo career. The Belmonts also continued to release records, but with less success.
In 2000, Dion and the Belmonts were inducted in The Vocal Group Hall of Fame.
"I Wonder Why" is a doo-wop song, written by Maxwell Anderson (lyrics) and Ricardo Weeks, first recorded in 1958. It is sung from the point of view of a man telling to his girlfriend that he neither knows nor, ultimately, cares the reasons for his love for said other.
The song was used in the film, A Bronx Tale, in the pilot episode of the television series The Sopranos, and in John Carpenter's film adaption of Stephen King's "Christine". A cover was sang by Nicolas Cage in Peggy Sue Got Married.
Their breakthrough came when "I Wonder Why" reached No. 22 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. They followed it with the ballads "No One Knows" (No. 19) and "Don’t Pity Me" (No. 40).
This success won Dion and the Belmonts their first major tour in late 1958, with The Coasters, Buddy Holly and Bobby Darin, and this was followed up by the "Winter Dance Party" tour with Holly, Ritchie Valens and The Big Bopper.
On 2 February 1959, after playing at the Surf Ballroom, Dion decided that he could not afford the $36 cost of a flight to the next venue. The plane crashed; Holly, Valens, The Big Bopper, and the pilot were killed on 3 February 1959, shortly after midnight.
In March 1959, Dion and the Belmonts’ next single, "A Teenager in Love", was released, reaching No. 5 on the Billboard Hot 100 and No. 28 in the UK Singles Chart, and this was followed by an album, Presenting Dion and the Belmonts.
Their biggest hit, "Where or When", was released in November 1959, and reached No. 3 on the Billboard Hot 100.
However, in early 1960, Dion checked into a hospital for heroin addiction, a problem he had had since his mid-teens. Other singles released for the group that year were less successful. In addition, there were musical and financial disputes between Dion and members of the Belmonts.
In October 1960, Dion decided to quit for a solo career. The Belmonts also continued to release records, but with less success.
In 2000, Dion and the Belmonts were inducted in The Vocal Group Hall of Fame.
"I Wonder Why" is a doo-wop song, written by Maxwell Anderson (lyrics) and Ricardo Weeks, first recorded in 1958. It is sung from the point of view of a man telling to his girlfriend that he neither knows nor, ultimately, cares the reasons for his love for said other.
The song was used in the film, A Bronx Tale, in the pilot episode of the television series The Sopranos, and in John Carpenter's film adaption of Stephen King's "Christine". A cover was sang by Nicolas Cage in Peggy Sue Got Married.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)