Aerosmith is an American hard rock band. Their style, which is rooted in blues-based hard rock, has come to also incorporate elements of pop, heavy metal, and rhythm and blues, and has inspired many subsequent rock artists.
The band was formed in Boston, Massachusetts in 1970.
Guitarist Joe Perry and bassist Tom Hamilton, originally in a band together called the Jam Band, met up with singer Steven Tyler, drummer Joey Kramer, and guitarist Ray Tabano, and formed Aerosmith. In 1971, Tabano was replaced by Brad Whitford, and the band began developing a following in Boston.
Aerosmith is the best-selling American rock band of all time, having sold more than 150 million albums worldwide, including 66.5 million albums in the United States alone.
They also hold the record for the most gold and multi-platinum albums by an American group. The band has scored 21 Top 40 hits on the Billboard Hot 100, nine #1 Mainstream Rock hits, four Grammy Awards, and ten MTV Video Music Awards.
They were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2001, and were included among both Rolling Stone's and VH1's lists of the 100 Greatest Artists of All Time.
"Dream On", "Toys in the Attic", and "Walk This Way" (with Run-D.M.C.) are all listed on The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame's 500 Songs that Shaped Rock and Roll.
In 2004, Rolling Stone's The 500 Greatest Songs of All Time included "Dream On" at #172, "Walk This Way" (with Run-D.M.C.) at #287, "Walk This Way" (original) at #336, and "Sweet Emotion" at #408.In 2004, Rolling Stone ranked Aerosmith #57 on their list of the 100 Greatest Artists of All Time.
“Dream On" is the first single by Aerosmith from their 1973 debut album, Aerosmith. Written by lead singer Steven Tyler, this blues-influenced power ballad became their first major hit. It peaked at #59 nationally.
The album version of "Dream On" was used for a 1976 single re-release, which climbed to #6 on Billboard's national chart in the first half of the year.
The song "Dream On" is part of the The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame's 500 Songs that Shaped Rock and Roll list.
It is also ranked #172 on Rolling Stone's list of the 500 Greatest Songs of All Time. Most people consider it Aerosmith's signature song.
It has been covered numerous times. One of them was by Ronnie James Dio (vocals) with Yngwie Malmsteen in 1999. Eminem also used parts of "Dream On" by permission in his song "Sing For The Moment" from his 2002 album The Eminem Show .
Thursday, February 10, 2011
David Bowie - Lady Grinning Soul
David Bowie (born David Robert Jones, 8 January 1947) is an English rock musician who has also worked as an actor, record producer and arranger. A major figure for five decades in the world of popular music, Bowie is widely regarded as an innovator, particularly for his work in the 1970s, and is known for his distinctive voice and the intellectual depth of his work.
His influence has been unique in popular culture.In the BBC's 2002 poll of the 100 Greatest Britons, Bowie was placed at number 29.
Throughout his career, he has sold an estimated 136 million albums. In the United Kingdom, he has been awarded 9 Platinum album certifications, 11 Gold and 8 Silver, and in the United States, 5 Platinum and 7 Gold certifications.
In 2004, Rolling Stone ranked him 39th on their list of the "100 Greatest Rock Artists of All Time", and 23rd on their list of the best singers of all.
Bowie was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame on 17 January 1996.
He declined the British honour Commander of the British Empire in 2000, and a knighthood in 2003,stating: "I would never have any intention of accepting anything like that. I seriously don't know what it's for. It's not what I spent my life working for…"
"Lady Grinning Soul" is a ballad written by Bowie, which is the final track on the album Aladdin Sane, released in 1973.
The composer’s first meeting with American soul singer Claudia Lennear in 1972 is often cited as the inspiration for the song.
The style of the piece has been compared to a James Bond theme. Pianist Mike Garson described his own performance as "about as romantic as it gets … French with a little Franz Liszt thrown in there".
Rolling Stone's contemporary review called Bowie's singing "the album's most expansive and sincere vocal", while author Nicholas Pegg considers the track "one of Bowie's most underrated recordings … quite unlike anything else he has ever done".
His influence has been unique in popular culture.In the BBC's 2002 poll of the 100 Greatest Britons, Bowie was placed at number 29.
Throughout his career, he has sold an estimated 136 million albums. In the United Kingdom, he has been awarded 9 Platinum album certifications, 11 Gold and 8 Silver, and in the United States, 5 Platinum and 7 Gold certifications.
In 2004, Rolling Stone ranked him 39th on their list of the "100 Greatest Rock Artists of All Time", and 23rd on their list of the best singers of all.
Bowie was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame on 17 January 1996.
He declined the British honour Commander of the British Empire in 2000, and a knighthood in 2003,stating: "I would never have any intention of accepting anything like that. I seriously don't know what it's for. It's not what I spent my life working for…"
"Lady Grinning Soul" is a ballad written by Bowie, which is the final track on the album Aladdin Sane, released in 1973.
The composer’s first meeting with American soul singer Claudia Lennear in 1972 is often cited as the inspiration for the song.
The style of the piece has been compared to a James Bond theme. Pianist Mike Garson described his own performance as "about as romantic as it gets … French with a little Franz Liszt thrown in there".
Rolling Stone's contemporary review called Bowie's singing "the album's most expansive and sincere vocal", while author Nicholas Pegg considers the track "one of Bowie's most underrated recordings … quite unlike anything else he has ever done".
Wednesday, February 9, 2011
This day in music history
1961, The Beatles appeared at The Cavern Club, Liverpool, for the very first time (as The Beatles), they would go on to make a total of 292 other appearances at the Club.
1963, Paul and Paula started a three-week run at No.1 on the US singles charts with 'Hey Paula', it made No.8 in the UK.
1964, The Beatles made their US live debut on CBS-TV's 'The Ed Sullivan Show'; they performed five songs including their current No.1 'I Want To Hold Your Hand' watched by an estimated 73 million people. The show had received over 50,000 applications for the 728 seats in the TV studio.
1967, Canadian conductor Percy Faith died aged 67. He scored the 1953 hit 'Song from the Moulin Rouge' and 1960 US No.1 'Theme From A Summer Place', nine weeks at No.1, which won the Grammy Award for Record of the Year in 1961.
1974, The Love Unlimited Orchestra went to No.1 on the US singles chart with 'Love's Theme', it made No.10 in the UK.
1981, American singer Bill Haley was found dead, fully clothed on his bed at his home in Harlington, Texas from a heart attack, Haley had sold over 60 million records during his career. Scored the 1955 UK & US No.1 single 'Rock Around The Clock', and became known as the first Rock 'n' Roll star. Haley was blinded in his left eye as a child due to a botched operation and later adopted his distinctive spit-curl hairstyle to distract attention from his blind eye.
1985, Elaine Page and Barbara Dickson were at No.1 on the UK singles chart with 'I Know Him So Well.' The song was taken from the musical Chess, written by Tim Rice and Bjorn Ulvaeus and Benny Andersson from Abba. It gave Benny and Bjorn their 10th No.1 as writers.
1985, Madonna started a three-week run at No.1 on the US album chart with 'Like A Virgin', a No.3 hit in the UK.
1987, Winners at this years Brit awards held in London included Peter Gabriel who won British Male Solo Artist, Kate Bush won British Female Solo Artist, Best British Group went to Five Star, British Album was Dire Straits 'Brothers In Arms', British Breakthrough Act was The Housemartins, International Solo Artist went to Paul Simon, The Bangles won Best International Group, Best British Video went to Peter Gabriel for 'Sledgehammer' and Best British Single was The Pet Shop Boys for 'West End Girls'.
1991, Jesus Jones went to No.1 on the UK album chart with their second LP 'Doubt.'
1998, Brit Award winners included All Saints best single and video with 'Never Never', The Verve, best group and album with 'Urban Hymns', best male artist was Finley Quaye, best female was Shola Ama and Stereophonics won the best newcomers.
2002, Billboard published the Top 5 selling albums in the world from 2001: Britney Spears’ 'Britney', $7m (£4.1m); Shaggy’s 'Hotshot', $7.2m £4.24m); Destiny’s Child’s 'Survivor', $7.8m (£4.6m); Linkin Park’s 'Hybrid', $8.5m (£5m) and Dido’s 'No Angel', $8.6m (£5.06m) sales.
2005, Winners at this years Brit Awards included The Streets who won Best British male solo artist, Joss Stone won British female solo artist, Best British Album went to Keane for ‘Hopes and Fears’, Franz Ferdinand won Best British Group and Best Rock Act, McFly won Best Pop Act, Scissor Sisters won Best International group and the Best Album award the Brits 25 best song award went to Robbie Williams for ‘Angels’ and Sir Bob Geldof won the Outstanding Contribution To Music award.
2009, Ringo Starr became the 2,401st person to be added to the Hollywood Walk Of Fame during a ceremony that marked the 50th anniversary of the attraction. The Beatles as a group were given a star in 1998.
1939, Born on this day, Barry Mann, US singer, songwriter. Wrote many early 60's pop hits including 'Saturday Night At The Movies', 'You've Lost That Loving Feeling', 'Walking In The Rain'. Also had the 1961 US No.7 solo single 'Who Put The Bomp, In The Bomp, Bomp, Bomp.'
1940, Born on this day, Brian Bennett, Drums, The Shadows, (1963 UK No.1 single 'Foot Tapper' plus 28 other UK Top 40 singles. Plus hits with Cliff Richard).
1942, Born on this day, Carole King, US singer, songwriter, wrote many songs with Gerry Goffin, (1962 UK No.3 & US No.22 single, 'It Might As Well Rain Until September'. Her 1970 US No.1 album 'Tapestry' has sold over 15 million copies. Became a Grammy award winner in 71.
1960, Born on this day, Holly Johnson, vocals, Big In Japan, Frankie Goes To Hollywood, (1984 UK No.1 & US No. 10 single 'Relax' and six other UK Top 40 singles). Solo, (1989 UK No.4 'Love Train' & 1989 UK No.1 album 'Blast').
1963, Born on this day, Dave Rotheray, guitar, The Beautiful South, (1990 UK No.1 single 'A Little Time' plus over 15 other UK Top 40 singles).
1963, Paul and Paula started a three-week run at No.1 on the US singles charts with 'Hey Paula', it made No.8 in the UK.
1964, The Beatles made their US live debut on CBS-TV's 'The Ed Sullivan Show'; they performed five songs including their current No.1 'I Want To Hold Your Hand' watched by an estimated 73 million people. The show had received over 50,000 applications for the 728 seats in the TV studio.
1967, Canadian conductor Percy Faith died aged 67. He scored the 1953 hit 'Song from the Moulin Rouge' and 1960 US No.1 'Theme From A Summer Place', nine weeks at No.1, which won the Grammy Award for Record of the Year in 1961.
1974, The Love Unlimited Orchestra went to No.1 on the US singles chart with 'Love's Theme', it made No.10 in the UK.
1981, American singer Bill Haley was found dead, fully clothed on his bed at his home in Harlington, Texas from a heart attack, Haley had sold over 60 million records during his career. Scored the 1955 UK & US No.1 single 'Rock Around The Clock', and became known as the first Rock 'n' Roll star. Haley was blinded in his left eye as a child due to a botched operation and later adopted his distinctive spit-curl hairstyle to distract attention from his blind eye.
1985, Elaine Page and Barbara Dickson were at No.1 on the UK singles chart with 'I Know Him So Well.' The song was taken from the musical Chess, written by Tim Rice and Bjorn Ulvaeus and Benny Andersson from Abba. It gave Benny and Bjorn their 10th No.1 as writers.
1985, Madonna started a three-week run at No.1 on the US album chart with 'Like A Virgin', a No.3 hit in the UK.
1987, Winners at this years Brit awards held in London included Peter Gabriel who won British Male Solo Artist, Kate Bush won British Female Solo Artist, Best British Group went to Five Star, British Album was Dire Straits 'Brothers In Arms', British Breakthrough Act was The Housemartins, International Solo Artist went to Paul Simon, The Bangles won Best International Group, Best British Video went to Peter Gabriel for 'Sledgehammer' and Best British Single was The Pet Shop Boys for 'West End Girls'.
1991, Jesus Jones went to No.1 on the UK album chart with their second LP 'Doubt.'
1998, Brit Award winners included All Saints best single and video with 'Never Never', The Verve, best group and album with 'Urban Hymns', best male artist was Finley Quaye, best female was Shola Ama and Stereophonics won the best newcomers.
2002, Billboard published the Top 5 selling albums in the world from 2001: Britney Spears’ 'Britney', $7m (£4.1m); Shaggy’s 'Hotshot', $7.2m £4.24m); Destiny’s Child’s 'Survivor', $7.8m (£4.6m); Linkin Park’s 'Hybrid', $8.5m (£5m) and Dido’s 'No Angel', $8.6m (£5.06m) sales.
2005, Winners at this years Brit Awards included The Streets who won Best British male solo artist, Joss Stone won British female solo artist, Best British Album went to Keane for ‘Hopes and Fears’, Franz Ferdinand won Best British Group and Best Rock Act, McFly won Best Pop Act, Scissor Sisters won Best International group and the Best Album award the Brits 25 best song award went to Robbie Williams for ‘Angels’ and Sir Bob Geldof won the Outstanding Contribution To Music award.
2009, Ringo Starr became the 2,401st person to be added to the Hollywood Walk Of Fame during a ceremony that marked the 50th anniversary of the attraction. The Beatles as a group were given a star in 1998.
1939, Born on this day, Barry Mann, US singer, songwriter. Wrote many early 60's pop hits including 'Saturday Night At The Movies', 'You've Lost That Loving Feeling', 'Walking In The Rain'. Also had the 1961 US No.7 solo single 'Who Put The Bomp, In The Bomp, Bomp, Bomp.'
1940, Born on this day, Brian Bennett, Drums, The Shadows, (1963 UK No.1 single 'Foot Tapper' plus 28 other UK Top 40 singles. Plus hits with Cliff Richard).
1942, Born on this day, Carole King, US singer, songwriter, wrote many songs with Gerry Goffin, (1962 UK No.3 & US No.22 single, 'It Might As Well Rain Until September'. Her 1970 US No.1 album 'Tapestry' has sold over 15 million copies. Became a Grammy award winner in 71.
1960, Born on this day, Holly Johnson, vocals, Big In Japan, Frankie Goes To Hollywood, (1984 UK No.1 & US No. 10 single 'Relax' and six other UK Top 40 singles). Solo, (1989 UK No.4 'Love Train' & 1989 UK No.1 album 'Blast').
1963, Born on this day, Dave Rotheray, guitar, The Beautiful South, (1990 UK No.1 single 'A Little Time' plus over 15 other UK Top 40 singles).
Bobby Hebb - Sunny
Bobby Hebb (July 26, 1938 – August 3, 2010) was an African American singer and songwriter, best known for his writing and recording of "Sunny".
Hebb also had lesser hits with his "A Satisfied Mind" in 1966 (# 39 on the Billboard chart and #40 on the R&B chart) and "Love Me" in 1967 (# 84), and wrote many other songs, including Lou Rawls' 1971 hit "A Natural Man." In 1972, his single "Love Love Love" reached # 32 in the UK charts
"Sunny" is the name of a song written by Bobby Hebb. It is one of the most covered popular songs, with hundreds of versions released. BMI rates "Sunny" number 25 in its "Top 100 songs of the century".
Hebb wrote the song after 22 November 1963, the day U.S. President John F. Kennedy was assassinated and Hebb's older brother Harold was killed in a knife fight outside a Nashville nightclub.
Hebb was devastated by both events and many critics say that those events inspired the tune. According to Hebb, he wrote the song as an expression of a preference for a "sunny" disposition over a "lousy" disposition.
Certainly, events influenced Bobby's songwriting, but his timeless melody,, together with the optimistic lyrics, came from the artist's desire to express that one should always "look at the bright side”
"Sunny" was recorded at Bell Sound Studios in New York City and released as a single in 1966. It met an immediate success, which resulted in Hebb touring in 1966 with The Beatles.
Other cover versions include artists such as Georgie Fame's and Cher's issues both charted in the UK Top 75 in 1966. Other covering artists include Boney M, Public Enemies, James Brown and Marva Whitney, Jose Feliciano, Luis Miguel, Stevie Wonder, Ella Fitzgerald, The Four Seasons, the Four Tops, Marvin Gaye, Wilson Pickett, Del Shannon, Nick Cave, Dusty Springfield.
Frank Sinatra covered "Sunny" with Duke Ellington on their collaborative album, Francis A. & Edward K.
Hebb also had lesser hits with his "A Satisfied Mind" in 1966 (# 39 on the Billboard chart and #40 on the R&B chart) and "Love Me" in 1967 (# 84), and wrote many other songs, including Lou Rawls' 1971 hit "A Natural Man." In 1972, his single "Love Love Love" reached # 32 in the UK charts
"Sunny" is the name of a song written by Bobby Hebb. It is one of the most covered popular songs, with hundreds of versions released. BMI rates "Sunny" number 25 in its "Top 100 songs of the century".
Hebb wrote the song after 22 November 1963, the day U.S. President John F. Kennedy was assassinated and Hebb's older brother Harold was killed in a knife fight outside a Nashville nightclub.
Hebb was devastated by both events and many critics say that those events inspired the tune. According to Hebb, he wrote the song as an expression of a preference for a "sunny" disposition over a "lousy" disposition.
Certainly, events influenced Bobby's songwriting, but his timeless melody,, together with the optimistic lyrics, came from the artist's desire to express that one should always "look at the bright side”
"Sunny" was recorded at Bell Sound Studios in New York City and released as a single in 1966. It met an immediate success, which resulted in Hebb touring in 1966 with The Beatles.
Other cover versions include artists such as Georgie Fame's and Cher's issues both charted in the UK Top 75 in 1966. Other covering artists include Boney M, Public Enemies, James Brown and Marva Whitney, Jose Feliciano, Luis Miguel, Stevie Wonder, Ella Fitzgerald, The Four Seasons, the Four Tops, Marvin Gaye, Wilson Pickett, Del Shannon, Nick Cave, Dusty Springfield.
Frank Sinatra covered "Sunny" with Duke Ellington on their collaborative album, Francis A. & Edward K.
Procol Harum - A Whiter Shade of Pale
"A Whiter Shade of Pale" is the debut song by the British band Procol Harum, released 12 May 1967.
The single reached number one in the UK Singles Chart on 8 June 1967, and stayed there for six weeks. Without much promotion, it reached #5 on the US charts, as well. It is one of the fewer than 30 all-time singles to have sold 10 million (or more) copies worldwide.
With its haunting Bach-flavoured instrumental melody, soulful vocals, and unusual lyrics—by the song's co-authors Gary Brooker, Matthew Fisher, and Keith Reid - "A Whiter Shade of Pale" reached #1 in several countries when released in 1967.
In the years since, it has become an enduring classic. The United Kingdom performing rights group Phonographic Performance Limited in 2004 recognised it as the most-played record by British broadcasting of the past 70 years.
Also in 2004, Rolling Stone placed "A Whiter Shade of Pale" #57 on its list of the 500 Greatest Songs of All Time.
It was named joint winner (along with Queen's "Bohemian Rhapsody", which also uses the word 'fandango') of the Best British Pop Single 1952-1977 at the BRIT Awards, part of Queen Elizabeth II's Silver Jubilee.
More than 900 recorded cover versions by other artists are known. The song has been included in many music compilations over the decades and has also been used in the soundtracks of numerous films.
The song "deals in metaphorical form with a male/female relationship which after some negotiation ends in a sexual act.
The phrase a whiter shade of pale has since gained widespread use in the English language, noticed by several dictionaries.
Procol Harum are a British rock band, formed in 1967, which contributed to the development of progressive rock, and by extension, symphonic rock.
The name has been said to be Latin for "beyond these things".
Although noted for its baroque and classical influence, Procol Harum's music also embraces the blues, R&B and soul.
The single reached number one in the UK Singles Chart on 8 June 1967, and stayed there for six weeks. Without much promotion, it reached #5 on the US charts, as well. It is one of the fewer than 30 all-time singles to have sold 10 million (or more) copies worldwide.
With its haunting Bach-flavoured instrumental melody, soulful vocals, and unusual lyrics—by the song's co-authors Gary Brooker, Matthew Fisher, and Keith Reid - "A Whiter Shade of Pale" reached #1 in several countries when released in 1967.
In the years since, it has become an enduring classic. The United Kingdom performing rights group Phonographic Performance Limited in 2004 recognised it as the most-played record by British broadcasting of the past 70 years.
Also in 2004, Rolling Stone placed "A Whiter Shade of Pale" #57 on its list of the 500 Greatest Songs of All Time.
It was named joint winner (along with Queen's "Bohemian Rhapsody", which also uses the word 'fandango') of the Best British Pop Single 1952-1977 at the BRIT Awards, part of Queen Elizabeth II's Silver Jubilee.
More than 900 recorded cover versions by other artists are known. The song has been included in many music compilations over the decades and has also been used in the soundtracks of numerous films.
The song "deals in metaphorical form with a male/female relationship which after some negotiation ends in a sexual act.
The phrase a whiter shade of pale has since gained widespread use in the English language, noticed by several dictionaries.
Procol Harum are a British rock band, formed in 1967, which contributed to the development of progressive rock, and by extension, symphonic rock.
The name has been said to be Latin for "beyond these things".
Although noted for its baroque and classical influence, Procol Harum's music also embraces the blues, R&B and soul.
The Byrds - Mr. Tambourine Man
Mr. Tambourine Man is the debut album by the The Byrds and was released in June 1965 on Columbia Records .
The album, along with the single of the same name, established the band as an internationally successful rock act and was also influential in originating the musical style known as folk rock.
The term "folk rock" was, in fact, first coined by the U.S. music press to describe the band's sound in mid-1965, at around the same time that the "Mr. Tambourine Man" single reached the top of the Billboard chart.
The single and album also represented the first effective American challenge to the dominance of The Beatles and the British Invasion during the mid-1960s.
The song has a bright, expansive melody and has become famous in particular for its surrealistic imagery, influenced by artists as diverse as French poet Arthur Rimbaud and Italian filmmaker Federico Fellini.
The lyrics call on the title character to play a song and the narrator will follow. Interpretations of the lyrics have included a paean to drugs such as LSD, a call to the singer's muse, a reflection of the audience's demands on the singer, and religious interpretations.
The album peaked at #6 on the Billboard Top LPs chart and reached #7 in the United Kingdom. The Bob Dylan penned "Mr. Tambourine Man" single was released ahead of the album in April 1965, reaching #1 on both the Billboard Hot 100 and the UK Singles Chart.
The Byrds (were an American rock band, formed in Los Angeles, California in 1964.
The band underwent multiple line-up changes throughout its existence, with frontman Roger McGuinn (aka Jim McGuinn) remaining the sole consistent member until the group disbanded in 1973.
Although they only managed to attain the huge commercial success of contemporaries like The Beatles, The Beach Boys, and The Rolling Stones for a short period of time (1965–66), The Byrds are today considered by critics to be one of the most influential bands of the 1960s.
Initially, they pioneered the musical genre of folk rock, melding the influence of The Beatles and other British Invasion bands with contemporary and traditional folk music.As the 1960s progressed, the band was also influential in originating psychedelic rock, raga rock, and country rock.
The album, along with the single of the same name, established the band as an internationally successful rock act and was also influential in originating the musical style known as folk rock.
The term "folk rock" was, in fact, first coined by the U.S. music press to describe the band's sound in mid-1965, at around the same time that the "Mr. Tambourine Man" single reached the top of the Billboard chart.
The single and album also represented the first effective American challenge to the dominance of The Beatles and the British Invasion during the mid-1960s.
The song has a bright, expansive melody and has become famous in particular for its surrealistic imagery, influenced by artists as diverse as French poet Arthur Rimbaud and Italian filmmaker Federico Fellini.
The lyrics call on the title character to play a song and the narrator will follow. Interpretations of the lyrics have included a paean to drugs such as LSD, a call to the singer's muse, a reflection of the audience's demands on the singer, and religious interpretations.
The album peaked at #6 on the Billboard Top LPs chart and reached #7 in the United Kingdom. The Bob Dylan penned "Mr. Tambourine Man" single was released ahead of the album in April 1965, reaching #1 on both the Billboard Hot 100 and the UK Singles Chart.
The Byrds (were an American rock band, formed in Los Angeles, California in 1964.
The band underwent multiple line-up changes throughout its existence, with frontman Roger McGuinn (aka Jim McGuinn) remaining the sole consistent member until the group disbanded in 1973.
Although they only managed to attain the huge commercial success of contemporaries like The Beatles, The Beach Boys, and The Rolling Stones for a short period of time (1965–66), The Byrds are today considered by critics to be one of the most influential bands of the 1960s.
Initially, they pioneered the musical genre of folk rock, melding the influence of The Beatles and other British Invasion bands with contemporary and traditional folk music.As the 1960s progressed, the band was also influential in originating psychedelic rock, raga rock, and country rock.
Tuesday, February 8, 2011
Nikos Xylouris - Itane mia fora ( 31st anniversary of his death. )
Nikos Xylouris ( 7 July 1936 - 8 February 1980), was a Greek composer and singer from the village of Anogeia in Crete and also the older brother of two other great musicians of Cretan music, Antonis Xylouris or Psarantonis and Yiannis Xylouris or Psaroyiannis.
His songs and music captured and described the Greek psyche and demeanor, gaining himself the title the archangel of Crete.
He acquired his first lyra at the age of twelve and displayed potential to play local folk music.
Xylouris was 17 years of age when he started performances at Kastro folk music-restaurant in Heraklion.
A turning point in Nikos Xylouris' career occurred with a recording in 1958. He first performed outside Greece in 1966 and won the first prize in the San Remo folk music festival.
In 1967 he established the first Cretan Music Hall, Erotokritos, in Heraklion
The recording of Anyfantou in 1969 was a big success. Xylouris soon started performances in Athens, which became his new permanent residence, at the Konaki folk music hall.
During the early 1970s, Xylouris' voice becomes identified not only with Cretan music but also with the new kind of artistic popular music that emerged
In 1971, Xylouris is awarded by the Academy Charles Cross of France for his performance in the Cretan Rizitika songs album with G. Markopoulos.
He died in 1980 from a brain tumor and today is the 31st anniversary of his death.
His songs and music captured and described the Greek psyche and demeanor, gaining himself the title the archangel of Crete.
He acquired his first lyra at the age of twelve and displayed potential to play local folk music.
Xylouris was 17 years of age when he started performances at Kastro folk music-restaurant in Heraklion.
A turning point in Nikos Xylouris' career occurred with a recording in 1958. He first performed outside Greece in 1966 and won the first prize in the San Remo folk music festival.
In 1967 he established the first Cretan Music Hall, Erotokritos, in Heraklion
The recording of Anyfantou in 1969 was a big success. Xylouris soon started performances in Athens, which became his new permanent residence, at the Konaki folk music hall.
During the early 1970s, Xylouris' voice becomes identified not only with Cretan music but also with the new kind of artistic popular music that emerged
In 1971, Xylouris is awarded by the Academy Charles Cross of France for his performance in the Cretan Rizitika songs album with G. Markopoulos.
He died in 1980 from a brain tumor and today is the 31st anniversary of his death.
This day in music history
1964, On their first full day in New York, The Beatles (minus George who had a sore throat), went for a photo-opportunity walk around Central Park. Over 400 girl fans followed The Beatles and extra police were called in to control them. Later in the day The Ronettes interviewed The Beatles for radio.
1975, Bob Dylan went to No.1 on the US album chart with 'Blood On The Tracks' his second US No.1 album.
1980, The divorce became final between David and Angie Bowie. He won custody of their son Zowie, (now known as Joe), Angie received a £30,000 ($51,000) settlement.
1983, Winners at the second annual Brit Awards held in London included Paul McCartney who won Best British Male Solo Artist, Kim Wilde won Best British Female Solo Artist, Dire Straits won British Group, British Breakthrough Act went to Yazoo, International Act was Kid Creole & The Coconuts, Best Selling Single Dexy's Midnight Runners "Come On Eileen" and the Life Achievement Award went to Pete Townshend.
1986, Billy Ocean started a four week run at No.1 on the UK singles chart with 'When The Going Gets Tough, The Tough Get Going', as featured in the film 'The Jewel Of The Nile.' The video was banned in the UK because it featured non-musician union members. Boyzone took the song to No.1 in 1999.
1990, Suffering from depression American singer songwriter Del Shannon died of self inflicted gunshot wounds. (1961 UK and US No.1 single 'Runaway', plus 9 US and 12 other UK Top 40 singles). He’d been working with Tom Petty and Jeff Lynne and was rumored to be replacing Roy Orbison, who had died, in the Traveling Wilburys supergroup.
1992, Wet Wet Wet scored their second UK No.1 album with 'High On The Happy Side.'
1994, Oasis were forced to cancel their first foreign tour after they were deported from Holland. The band were involved in a drunken brawl on a cross-channel ferry resulting in members of the band being arrested and locked in the brig on the ferry.
1998, Winners at this years Brit Awards included Finley Quaye who won Best British Male Solo Artist, Best British Female Solo Artist went to Shola Ama, The Verve won British Group and Best British Album for ‘Urban Hymns’, British Dance Act went to The Prodigy, British Breakthrough Act was Stereophonics, Best Selling British Album Act was The Spice Girls, International Male, Jon Bon Jovi, International Female, Bjork, International Group, U2 and Outstanding Contribution went to Fleetwood Mac. During the show Chumbawamba singer Danbert Nobacon threw a plastic bucket full of cold water over UK Deputy Prime Minister John Prescott.
2002, Bob Wooler died aged 76. He was the resident DJ and booker at The Cavern Club in Liverpool during the early 1960's. Wooler introduced The Beatles to their manager, Brian Epstein.
2005, Kylie Minogue was voted the world’s sexiest woman in her 30’s by UK magazine Good Housekeeping. Sade was voted No.4 in the over 40’s with Madonna coming in at No.7 and Jerry Hall at No.8. And Sharon Osbourne was voted into 3rd place in the over 50’s section.
2006, The 48th annual Grammy Awards were held at the Staples Center in Los Angeles, California. Madonna opened the awards for a third time. U2 came away with 5 awards and Mariah Carey won 3 of her 8 nominations.
1946, Born on this day, Adolpho De La Para, drums, Canned Heat, (1970 UK No.2 & US No.26 single 'Let's Work Together').
1961, Born on this day, Vince Neil, vocals, Motley Crue, (1988 UK No.23 single 'You're All I Need' & 1989 US No.1 album 'Dr Feelgood').
1977, Born on this day, Dave 'Phoenix' Ferrel, bass, Linkin Park, (2002 US No.2 & UK No.4 single 'In The End', 2002 US No.2 & 2001 UK No.4 album 'Hybrid Theory').
1985, Born on this day, Jeremy Davis, bassist, Paramore, 2009 UK No.1 album ‘Brand New Eyes’.
1975, Bob Dylan went to No.1 on the US album chart with 'Blood On The Tracks' his second US No.1 album.
1980, The divorce became final between David and Angie Bowie. He won custody of their son Zowie, (now known as Joe), Angie received a £30,000 ($51,000) settlement.
1983, Winners at the second annual Brit Awards held in London included Paul McCartney who won Best British Male Solo Artist, Kim Wilde won Best British Female Solo Artist, Dire Straits won British Group, British Breakthrough Act went to Yazoo, International Act was Kid Creole & The Coconuts, Best Selling Single Dexy's Midnight Runners "Come On Eileen" and the Life Achievement Award went to Pete Townshend.
1986, Billy Ocean started a four week run at No.1 on the UK singles chart with 'When The Going Gets Tough, The Tough Get Going', as featured in the film 'The Jewel Of The Nile.' The video was banned in the UK because it featured non-musician union members. Boyzone took the song to No.1 in 1999.
1990, Suffering from depression American singer songwriter Del Shannon died of self inflicted gunshot wounds. (1961 UK and US No.1 single 'Runaway', plus 9 US and 12 other UK Top 40 singles). He’d been working with Tom Petty and Jeff Lynne and was rumored to be replacing Roy Orbison, who had died, in the Traveling Wilburys supergroup.
1992, Wet Wet Wet scored their second UK No.1 album with 'High On The Happy Side.'
1994, Oasis were forced to cancel their first foreign tour after they were deported from Holland. The band were involved in a drunken brawl on a cross-channel ferry resulting in members of the band being arrested and locked in the brig on the ferry.
1998, Winners at this years Brit Awards included Finley Quaye who won Best British Male Solo Artist, Best British Female Solo Artist went to Shola Ama, The Verve won British Group and Best British Album for ‘Urban Hymns’, British Dance Act went to The Prodigy, British Breakthrough Act was Stereophonics, Best Selling British Album Act was The Spice Girls, International Male, Jon Bon Jovi, International Female, Bjork, International Group, U2 and Outstanding Contribution went to Fleetwood Mac. During the show Chumbawamba singer Danbert Nobacon threw a plastic bucket full of cold water over UK Deputy Prime Minister John Prescott.
2002, Bob Wooler died aged 76. He was the resident DJ and booker at The Cavern Club in Liverpool during the early 1960's. Wooler introduced The Beatles to their manager, Brian Epstein.
2005, Kylie Minogue was voted the world’s sexiest woman in her 30’s by UK magazine Good Housekeeping. Sade was voted No.4 in the over 40’s with Madonna coming in at No.7 and Jerry Hall at No.8. And Sharon Osbourne was voted into 3rd place in the over 50’s section.
2006, The 48th annual Grammy Awards were held at the Staples Center in Los Angeles, California. Madonna opened the awards for a third time. U2 came away with 5 awards and Mariah Carey won 3 of her 8 nominations.
1946, Born on this day, Adolpho De La Para, drums, Canned Heat, (1970 UK No.2 & US No.26 single 'Let's Work Together').
1961, Born on this day, Vince Neil, vocals, Motley Crue, (1988 UK No.23 single 'You're All I Need' & 1989 US No.1 album 'Dr Feelgood').
1977, Born on this day, Dave 'Phoenix' Ferrel, bass, Linkin Park, (2002 US No.2 & UK No.4 single 'In The End', 2002 US No.2 & 2001 UK No.4 album 'Hybrid Theory').
1985, Born on this day, Jeremy Davis, bassist, Paramore, 2009 UK No.1 album ‘Brand New Eyes’.
Thelonious Monk - In Walked Bud
"In Walked Bud" is a 1947 jazz composition by Thelonious Monk. It was based on the chord progression of an earlier standard, Irving Berlin's "Blue Skies" (1927). The song was a tribute to jazz pianist Bud Powell
Monk recorded the tune several times during his career, starting with the 1947 sessions for Genius of Modern Music.
The last recording by Monk is from the 1968 album Underground, with lyrics and vocals by Jon Hendricks. The song has been covered by numerous jazz artists and is considered a jazz standard.
Thelonious Sphere Monk (October 10, 1917 – February 17, 1982) was an American jazz pianist and composer considered "one of the giants of American music".
Monk had a unique improvisational style and made numerous contributions to the standard jazz repertoire, including "Epistrophy", "'Round Midnight", "Blue Monk", "Straight, No Chaser" and "Well, You Needn't".
Monk is the second most recorded jazz composer after Duke Ellington, which is particularly remarkable as Ellington composed over 1,000 songs while Monk wrote about 70.
Often regarded as a founder of bebop, Monk's playing later evolved away from that style.
His compositions and improvisations are full of dissonant harmonies and angular melodic twists, and are consistent with Monk's unorthodox approach to the piano, which combined a highly percussive attack with abrupt, dramatic use of silences and hesitations.
Monk's manner was idiosyncratic. Visually, he was renowned for his distinctive style in suits, hats and sunglasses.
He was also noted for the fact that at times, while the other musicians in the band continued playing, he would stop, stand up from the keyboard and dance for a few moments before returning to the piano.
He is one of five jazz musicians to have been featured on the cover of Time (the other four being Louis Armstrong, Duke Ellington, Wynton Marsalis, and Dave Brubeck) as of 2010.
Monk recorded the tune several times during his career, starting with the 1947 sessions for Genius of Modern Music.
The last recording by Monk is from the 1968 album Underground, with lyrics and vocals by Jon Hendricks. The song has been covered by numerous jazz artists and is considered a jazz standard.
Thelonious Sphere Monk (October 10, 1917 – February 17, 1982) was an American jazz pianist and composer considered "one of the giants of American music".
Monk had a unique improvisational style and made numerous contributions to the standard jazz repertoire, including "Epistrophy", "'Round Midnight", "Blue Monk", "Straight, No Chaser" and "Well, You Needn't".
Monk is the second most recorded jazz composer after Duke Ellington, which is particularly remarkable as Ellington composed over 1,000 songs while Monk wrote about 70.
Often regarded as a founder of bebop, Monk's playing later evolved away from that style.
His compositions and improvisations are full of dissonant harmonies and angular melodic twists, and are consistent with Monk's unorthodox approach to the piano, which combined a highly percussive attack with abrupt, dramatic use of silences and hesitations.
Monk's manner was idiosyncratic. Visually, he was renowned for his distinctive style in suits, hats and sunglasses.
He was also noted for the fact that at times, while the other musicians in the band continued playing, he would stop, stand up from the keyboard and dance for a few moments before returning to the piano.
He is one of five jazz musicians to have been featured on the cover of Time (the other four being Louis Armstrong, Duke Ellington, Wynton Marsalis, and Dave Brubeck) as of 2010.
Nina Simone - Mood Indigo
"Mood Indigo" (1930) is a jazz composition and song, with music by Duke Ellington and Barney Bigard with lyrics by Irving Mills.
The main theme was provided by Bigard, who learned it in New Orleans, Louisiana from his clarinet teacher Lorenzo Tio, who called it a "Mexican Blues". Ellington's distinctive arrangement was first recorded on 17 October 1930.
"Mood Indigo" is performed both as an instrumental and as a vocal. It has been recorded by a countless number of artists, ranging from Charles Mingus to Ella Fitzgerald, Nat "King" Cole, Frank Sinatra, Louie Armstrong.
"Mood Indigo" is featured in the films The Untouchables (1987) and The Legend of Bagger Vance (2000). It is also the closing music for the film The Cotton Club (1984).
Nina Simone (February 21, 1933 – April 21, 2003), was an American singer, songwriter, pianist, arranger, and civil rights activist widely associated with jazz music.
Simone aspired to become a classical pianist while working in a broad range of styles including classical, jazz, blues, soul, folk, R&B, gospel, and pop.
Over her career, Simone recorded over 40 albums, mostly between 1958 — when she made her debut with Little Girl Blue — and 1974.
After twenty years of performing, she became involved in the civil rights movement and the direction of her life shifted once more. Simone's music was highly influential in the fight black people faced for equal rights at this time in America, regardless of race.
The main theme was provided by Bigard, who learned it in New Orleans, Louisiana from his clarinet teacher Lorenzo Tio, who called it a "Mexican Blues". Ellington's distinctive arrangement was first recorded on 17 October 1930.
"Mood Indigo" is performed both as an instrumental and as a vocal. It has been recorded by a countless number of artists, ranging from Charles Mingus to Ella Fitzgerald, Nat "King" Cole, Frank Sinatra, Louie Armstrong.
"Mood Indigo" is featured in the films The Untouchables (1987) and The Legend of Bagger Vance (2000). It is also the closing music for the film The Cotton Club (1984).
Nina Simone (February 21, 1933 – April 21, 2003), was an American singer, songwriter, pianist, arranger, and civil rights activist widely associated with jazz music.
Simone aspired to become a classical pianist while working in a broad range of styles including classical, jazz, blues, soul, folk, R&B, gospel, and pop.
Over her career, Simone recorded over 40 albums, mostly between 1958 — when she made her debut with Little Girl Blue — and 1974.
After twenty years of performing, she became involved in the civil rights movement and the direction of her life shifted once more. Simone's music was highly influential in the fight black people faced for equal rights at this time in America, regardless of race.
Charlie Parker - Ornithology
"Ornithology" is a jazz standard by Bebop alto saxophonist Charlie Parker and trumpeter Benny Harris.
Its title is a reference to Parker's nickname, "Bird". The Charlie Parker Septet made the first recording of the tune on March 28, 1946 on the Dial label, and was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 1989.
"Ornithology" is a contrafact - that is, a newly created melody written over the chord progression of another song, in this case the standard "How High the Moon".
It remains one of the most popular and frequently performed bebop tunes. Jazz vocalists scatting on "How High the Moon" (notably Ella Fitzgerald) often quote the melody of "Ornithology" (and vice versa).
Notable recordings include Bud Powell's version. Vocalese "lyrics" were also created by Babs Gonzales.
Charles Parker, Jr. (August 29, 1920 – March 12, 1955), famously called Bird, was an American jazz saxophonist and composer.
Parker, with Louis Armstrong and Duke Ellington, is widely considered one of the most influential of jazz musicians. Parker acquired the nickname "Yardbird" early in his career,[3] and the shortened form "Bird" remained Parker's sobriquet for the rest of his life, inspiring the titles of a number of Parker compositions, such as "Yardbird Suite", "Ornithology" and "Bird of Paradise."
Parker played a leading role in the development of bebop, a form of jazz characterized by fast tempos, virtuoso technique, and improvisation based on harmonic structure.
Parker's innovative approaches to melody, rhythm, and harmony exercised enormous influence on his contemporaries. Several of Parker's songs have become standards, including "Billie's Bounce", "Anthropology", "Ornithology", and "Confirmation".
Parker was an icon for the hipster subculture and later the Beat generation, personifying the conception of the jazz musician as an uncompromising artist and intellectual, rather than just a popular entertainer. His style – from a rhythmic, harmonic and soloing perspective – influenced countless peers on every instrument.
Its title is a reference to Parker's nickname, "Bird". The Charlie Parker Septet made the first recording of the tune on March 28, 1946 on the Dial label, and was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 1989.
"Ornithology" is a contrafact - that is, a newly created melody written over the chord progression of another song, in this case the standard "How High the Moon".
It remains one of the most popular and frequently performed bebop tunes. Jazz vocalists scatting on "How High the Moon" (notably Ella Fitzgerald) often quote the melody of "Ornithology" (and vice versa).
Notable recordings include Bud Powell's version. Vocalese "lyrics" were also created by Babs Gonzales.
Charles Parker, Jr. (August 29, 1920 – March 12, 1955), famously called Bird, was an American jazz saxophonist and composer.
Parker, with Louis Armstrong and Duke Ellington, is widely considered one of the most influential of jazz musicians. Parker acquired the nickname "Yardbird" early in his career,[3] and the shortened form "Bird" remained Parker's sobriquet for the rest of his life, inspiring the titles of a number of Parker compositions, such as "Yardbird Suite", "Ornithology" and "Bird of Paradise."
Parker played a leading role in the development of bebop, a form of jazz characterized by fast tempos, virtuoso technique, and improvisation based on harmonic structure.
Parker's innovative approaches to melody, rhythm, and harmony exercised enormous influence on his contemporaries. Several of Parker's songs have become standards, including "Billie's Bounce", "Anthropology", "Ornithology", and "Confirmation".
Parker was an icon for the hipster subculture and later the Beat generation, personifying the conception of the jazz musician as an uncompromising artist and intellectual, rather than just a popular entertainer. His style – from a rhythmic, harmonic and soloing perspective – influenced countless peers on every instrument.
Monday, February 7, 2011
This day in music history
1959, Buddy Holly was buried in Lubbock, Texas. His tombstone reads "Holley", the correct spelling of his given surname and includes pictures of a guitar.
1963, The first Beatles single 'Please Please Me' was released in the US on the Vee Jay label.
1963, The Blues By Six plus The Rolling Stones appeared at The Manor House, London, tickets cost 4 shillings, ($0.56c).
1964, Pan Am flight 101 was greeted by over 5,000 Beatles fans as it arrived at New York's JFK airport, bringing The Beatles to the US for the first time and causing riotous scenes as they touched down.
1969, John and Yoko were featured on the cover of Rolling Stone magazine, on sale for 35 Cents, (2/6). John was named as Rolling Stone’s ‘Man Of The Year’.
1970, Led Zeppelin scored their first UK No.1 album with 'Led Zeppelin II'. Featuring the US single 'Whole Lotta Love', it went on to stay on the chart for 138 weeks selling over 6 million copies in the US.
1970, One hit wonders Shocking Blue went to No.1 on the US singles chart with 'Venus', making them the first Dutch act to top the US charts. It made No.8 in the UK; Bananarama took the song to No.8 on the UK chart in 86.
1976, Paul Simon started a three week run at No.1 on the US singles chart with '50 Ways To Leave Your Lover', the singers first solo US No.1.
1981, Kool & The Gang started a two week run at No.1 on the US singles chart with 'Celebration' the group's first No.1 and 8th top 40 hit, a No.7 hit in the UK.
1981, John Lennon was at No.1 on the UK singles chart with 'Woman', an ode to his wife Yoko Ono. It was Lennon's third No.1 in seven weeks after his death on December 8, 1980.
1987, George Michael and Aretha Franklin were at No.1 on the UK singles chart with 'I Knew You Were Waiting (For Me)'. Written by Simon Climie it gave Aretha her first UK No.1 almost 20 years after her first hit.
1987, Madonna went to No.1 on the US singles chart with 'Open Your Heart', her 5th US No.1, a No.4 hit in the UK.
1999, Blondie went to No.1 on the UK singles chart with 'Maria', giving the group their 6th UK No.1 single, 20 years after their first. At the age of 54, lead singer Debbie Harry became the oldest female to make No.1.
2004, Queen's single 'We Will Rock You' topped a poll of music fans to find the greatest rock anthem of all time. The 1977 song beat the band's classic 'Bohemian Rhapsody' into second place in a survey of 1,000 people carried out for the UCI cinema chain. The poll was carried out to mark the release of new Jack Black comedy 'School of Rock.'
2005, Michael Jackson's Thriller was named the top pop video in a poll of Channel 4 viewers in the UK. The 1983 video, which depicts the singer as a werewolf and a zombie, beat videos by Madonna and Robbie Williams. Animated videos for Peter Gabriel's Sledgehammer and A-Ha's Take On Me were in second and third place respectively. 4th was Queen with Bohemian Rhapsody, 5th, Madonna Like a Prayer, 6th, Robbie Williams, Rock DJ, 7th, Michael Jackson, Billie Jean, 8th, The Verve, Bittersweet Symphony, 9th, Madonna Vogue and 10th Nirvana, Smells Like Teen Spirit.
2008, Amy Winehouse was told she could not perform at this year's Grammy awards ceremony because her US visa application has been rejected by the embassy in London. The singer was arrested for marijuana possession in Norway last year. Winehouse has been nominated for six Grammy awards ahead of the ceremony in Los Angeles on Sunday.
1934, Born on this day, Earl King, New Orleans Blues guitarist. King died on April 17th 2003 aged 69. He wrote 'Come On, (Let The Good Times Roll').
1949, Born on this day, Alan Lancaster, bass, Status Quo, (left in 1984, 1977 UK No.3 single 'Rockin' All Over The World' plus 50 other UK Top 75 singles since 1968).
1949, Born on this day, Stoney Browder, Kid Creole And The Coconuts, (1982 UK No.2 single 'Annie I'm Not Your Daddy').
1962, Born on this day, David Bryan, keyboards, Bon Jovi, (1987 US No.1 & UK No.4 single 'Livin' On A Prayer').
1962, Born on this day, Garth Brooks, country singer, (1991 US No.1 album 'Ropin' The Wind' spent 70 weeks on the US chart, 1994 UK No.13 single 'The Red Strokes.' Biggest selling artist of the 90's with over 60 million sales).
1962, Born on this day, Deborah Bonham, English rock and blues vocalist and the sister of John Bonham, the late drummer for the band Led Zeppelin.
1975, Born on this day, Wes Borland, guitar, Limp Bizkit, (2001 UK No.1 single 'Rollin' & US & UK No.1 album 'Chocolate Starfish and the Hotdog Flavoured Water').
WEQEERWVXTAG
1963, The first Beatles single 'Please Please Me' was released in the US on the Vee Jay label.
1963, The Blues By Six plus The Rolling Stones appeared at The Manor House, London, tickets cost 4 shillings, ($0.56c).
1964, Pan Am flight 101 was greeted by over 5,000 Beatles fans as it arrived at New York's JFK airport, bringing The Beatles to the US for the first time and causing riotous scenes as they touched down.
1969, John and Yoko were featured on the cover of Rolling Stone magazine, on sale for 35 Cents, (2/6). John was named as Rolling Stone’s ‘Man Of The Year’.
1970, Led Zeppelin scored their first UK No.1 album with 'Led Zeppelin II'. Featuring the US single 'Whole Lotta Love', it went on to stay on the chart for 138 weeks selling over 6 million copies in the US.
1970, One hit wonders Shocking Blue went to No.1 on the US singles chart with 'Venus', making them the first Dutch act to top the US charts. It made No.8 in the UK; Bananarama took the song to No.8 on the UK chart in 86.
1976, Paul Simon started a three week run at No.1 on the US singles chart with '50 Ways To Leave Your Lover', the singers first solo US No.1.
1981, Kool & The Gang started a two week run at No.1 on the US singles chart with 'Celebration' the group's first No.1 and 8th top 40 hit, a No.7 hit in the UK.
1981, John Lennon was at No.1 on the UK singles chart with 'Woman', an ode to his wife Yoko Ono. It was Lennon's third No.1 in seven weeks after his death on December 8, 1980.
1987, George Michael and Aretha Franklin were at No.1 on the UK singles chart with 'I Knew You Were Waiting (For Me)'. Written by Simon Climie it gave Aretha her first UK No.1 almost 20 years after her first hit.
1987, Madonna went to No.1 on the US singles chart with 'Open Your Heart', her 5th US No.1, a No.4 hit in the UK.
1999, Blondie went to No.1 on the UK singles chart with 'Maria', giving the group their 6th UK No.1 single, 20 years after their first. At the age of 54, lead singer Debbie Harry became the oldest female to make No.1.
2004, Queen's single 'We Will Rock You' topped a poll of music fans to find the greatest rock anthem of all time. The 1977 song beat the band's classic 'Bohemian Rhapsody' into second place in a survey of 1,000 people carried out for the UCI cinema chain. The poll was carried out to mark the release of new Jack Black comedy 'School of Rock.'
2005, Michael Jackson's Thriller was named the top pop video in a poll of Channel 4 viewers in the UK. The 1983 video, which depicts the singer as a werewolf and a zombie, beat videos by Madonna and Robbie Williams. Animated videos for Peter Gabriel's Sledgehammer and A-Ha's Take On Me were in second and third place respectively. 4th was Queen with Bohemian Rhapsody, 5th, Madonna Like a Prayer, 6th, Robbie Williams, Rock DJ, 7th, Michael Jackson, Billie Jean, 8th, The Verve, Bittersweet Symphony, 9th, Madonna Vogue and 10th Nirvana, Smells Like Teen Spirit.
2008, Amy Winehouse was told she could not perform at this year's Grammy awards ceremony because her US visa application has been rejected by the embassy in London. The singer was arrested for marijuana possession in Norway last year. Winehouse has been nominated for six Grammy awards ahead of the ceremony in Los Angeles on Sunday.
1934, Born on this day, Earl King, New Orleans Blues guitarist. King died on April 17th 2003 aged 69. He wrote 'Come On, (Let The Good Times Roll').
1949, Born on this day, Alan Lancaster, bass, Status Quo, (left in 1984, 1977 UK No.3 single 'Rockin' All Over The World' plus 50 other UK Top 75 singles since 1968).
1949, Born on this day, Stoney Browder, Kid Creole And The Coconuts, (1982 UK No.2 single 'Annie I'm Not Your Daddy').
1962, Born on this day, David Bryan, keyboards, Bon Jovi, (1987 US No.1 & UK No.4 single 'Livin' On A Prayer').
1962, Born on this day, Garth Brooks, country singer, (1991 US No.1 album 'Ropin' The Wind' spent 70 weeks on the US chart, 1994 UK No.13 single 'The Red Strokes.' Biggest selling artist of the 90's with over 60 million sales).
1962, Born on this day, Deborah Bonham, English rock and blues vocalist and the sister of John Bonham, the late drummer for the band Led Zeppelin.
1975, Born on this day, Wes Borland, guitar, Limp Bizkit, (2001 UK No.1 single 'Rollin' & US & UK No.1 album 'Chocolate Starfish and the Hotdog Flavoured Water').
WEQEERWVXTAG
Gary Moore - As the Years Go Passing By
"As the Years Go Passing By" is a song credited to have been written by ”Deadric Malone″ (a pseudonym of Don Robey), the owner of Duke records.
Other sources claim that the song was penned by Peppermint Harris for Fenton Robinson, who first recorded it in 1959.
The most known versions are those by Albert King (1967) and Eric Burdon & The Animals, who recorded it for their last album, Love Is in 1968.
Moore's cover can be found in "Still Got the Blues",the most successful of Moore's solo albums (1990)
Other sources claim that the song was penned by Peppermint Harris for Fenton Robinson, who first recorded it in 1959.
The most known versions are those by Albert King (1967) and Eric Burdon & The Animals, who recorded it for their last album, Love Is in 1968.
Moore's cover can be found in "Still Got the Blues",the most successful of Moore's solo albums (1990)
Gary Moore - All Your Love (I Miss Loving)
"All Your Love (I Miss Loving)" is a blues song written and recorded in 1958 by Chicago blues guitarist Otis Rush.
Since then, the song has been recorded by several blues and other artists including John Mayall and the Bluesbreakers with Eric Clapton, Buddy Guy, Stevie Ray Vaughan, Melvin Taylor, Gary Moore, the Steve Miller Band, and Aerosmith.
It has been noted that Rush's song was the obvious inspiration for Bob Dylan's recent track "Beyond Here Lies Nothin'".
In 2010, it was inducted into the Blues Foundation Hall of Fame.
Gary Moore's version is from the album "Still Got the Blues" in 1990.
Since then, the song has been recorded by several blues and other artists including John Mayall and the Bluesbreakers with Eric Clapton, Buddy Guy, Stevie Ray Vaughan, Melvin Taylor, Gary Moore, the Steve Miller Band, and Aerosmith.
It has been noted that Rush's song was the obvious inspiration for Bob Dylan's recent track "Beyond Here Lies Nothin'".
In 2010, it was inducted into the Blues Foundation Hall of Fame.
Gary Moore's version is from the album "Still Got the Blues" in 1990.
Gary Moore - Farther Up the Road
After a series of rock records, Moore returned to blues music with "Still Got the Blues", with contributions from Albert King, Albert Collins and George Harrison.
Moore stayed with the blues format until 1997, when he decided to experiment with modern dance beats on "Dark Days in Paradise".
"Back to the Blues" saw Moore return to his tried and tested blues format in 2001: he continued with this style on "Power of the Blues" (2004), "Old New Ballads Blues" (2006), "Close As You Get" (2007) and "Bad For You Baby (2008).
"Farther Up the Road" is a blues song first recorded in 1957 by Bobby "Blue" Bland. The song became a #1 hit the same year in the Billboard R&B chart as well as reaching #43 in the Billboard pop chart.
The song was Bland's first charting single after several years of recording for various record companies. It spent fourteen weeks in the R&B chart, including two weeks at #1. Bland would enjoy nearly uninterrupted chart success for the next twenty years.
Since the original hit, "Farther Up the Road" has been performed and recorded by numerous blues and other artists with most notable cover version the one by Eric Clapton.
This one comes from "Blues Alive" in 1993.
Moore stayed with the blues format until 1997, when he decided to experiment with modern dance beats on "Dark Days in Paradise".
"Back to the Blues" saw Moore return to his tried and tested blues format in 2001: he continued with this style on "Power of the Blues" (2004), "Old New Ballads Blues" (2006), "Close As You Get" (2007) and "Bad For You Baby (2008).
"Farther Up the Road" is a blues song first recorded in 1957 by Bobby "Blue" Bland. The song became a #1 hit the same year in the Billboard R&B chart as well as reaching #43 in the Billboard pop chart.
The song was Bland's first charting single after several years of recording for various record companies. It spent fourteen weeks in the R&B chart, including two weeks at #1. Bland would enjoy nearly uninterrupted chart success for the next twenty years.
Since the original hit, "Farther Up the Road" has been performed and recorded by numerous blues and other artists with most notable cover version the one by Eric Clapton.
This one comes from "Blues Alive" in 1993.
Sunday, February 6, 2011
Gary Moore
Gary Moore was a musician best recognized as a blues rock guitarist and singer from Belfast, Northern Ireland whose output spans over three decades.
He was born in Belfast on April 4th 1952. His earlier bands of note were Skid Row and Colosseum before he joined and rejoined Thin Lizzy.
Gary Moore has contributed to numerous albums as a session player and been experimenting with blues, Celtic and rock music.
His most relevant material, to metal fans, is his early 80's work on albums like Corridors Of Power and Victims Of The Future. Gary Moore has played far and wide and supported bands before headlining on his own.
Moore has shared the stage with such blues and rock luminaries as B.B. King, Albert King, Colosseum II, Greg Lake and Skid Row (not to be confused with the glam metal band of the same name), as well as having a successful solo career.
Gary Moore died on 6 February 2011 in his sleep while on holiday in Spain.
Moore's greatest influence in the early days came from guitarist Peter Green, of Fleetwood Mac fame, who was a mentor to Moore when performing in Dublin.
Green's continued influence on Moore was later repaid as a tribute to Green on his 1995 album Blues for Greeny, an album consisting entirely of Green compositions.
On this tribute album Moore played Green's 1959 Les Paul Standard guitar which Green had lent to Moore after leaving Fleetwood Mac. Moore ultimately purchased the guitar, at Green's request, so that "it would have a good home".
"Need your love so bad" is a song from that album ,a blues song first published in 1955 and written by Mertis John Jr. Fleetwood Mac released a cover of this song as single,[2] which reached #31 in the UK Singles Chart in August 1968.
He was born in Belfast on April 4th 1952. His earlier bands of note were Skid Row and Colosseum before he joined and rejoined Thin Lizzy.
Gary Moore has contributed to numerous albums as a session player and been experimenting with blues, Celtic and rock music.
His most relevant material, to metal fans, is his early 80's work on albums like Corridors Of Power and Victims Of The Future. Gary Moore has played far and wide and supported bands before headlining on his own.
Moore has shared the stage with such blues and rock luminaries as B.B. King, Albert King, Colosseum II, Greg Lake and Skid Row (not to be confused with the glam metal band of the same name), as well as having a successful solo career.
Gary Moore died on 6 February 2011 in his sleep while on holiday in Spain.
Moore's greatest influence in the early days came from guitarist Peter Green, of Fleetwood Mac fame, who was a mentor to Moore when performing in Dublin.
Green's continued influence on Moore was later repaid as a tribute to Green on his 1995 album Blues for Greeny, an album consisting entirely of Green compositions.
On this tribute album Moore played Green's 1959 Les Paul Standard guitar which Green had lent to Moore after leaving Fleetwood Mac. Moore ultimately purchased the guitar, at Green's request, so that "it would have a good home".
"Need your love so bad" is a song from that album ,a blues song first published in 1955 and written by Mertis John Jr. Fleetwood Mac released a cover of this song as single,[2] which reached #31 in the UK Singles Chart in August 1968.
This day in music history
1958, George Harrison joined Liverpool group The Quarrymen. The group who were named after Lennon's school featured John Lennon, Paul McCartney, Len Garry, Eric Griffiths and John Lowe.
1960, 27 year-old Jesse Belvin, who scored a 1956 hit with ‘Goodnight, My Love’, was killed in a car accident in Hope, Arkansas. His wife and the car's driver also died of their injuries. The three were trying to make a fast get-a-way from the first ever mixed race audience concert in the town of Little Rock, after threats had been made against Belvin's life.
1965, The Righteous Brothers started a two week run at No.1 on the US singles chart with the Phil Spector produced 'You've Lost That Lovin' Feelin'. The song was also No.1 in the UK for the duo (who were not related in any way).
1965, The Rolling Stones second album 'Rolling Stones No.2' started a three-week run at No.1 on the UK charts.
1981, Composer Hugo Montenegro died in California. Had the 1968 UK No.1 & US No.2 single 'The Good The Bad And The Ugly' from the soundtrack to the Clint Eastwood spaghetti western film. Worked for RCA records, producing a series of albums and soundtracks and television themes, including two volumes of Music From The Man From U.N.C.L.E.
1982, Kraftwerk were at No.1 on the UK singles chart with 'The Model / Computer Love', the first German act to score a UK No.1 single. The single spent 21 weeks on the UK chart.
1982, The J Geils Band started a six week run at No.1 on the US singles chart with 'Centrefold', the bands only US No.1. A No.3 hit in the UK. The bands album 'Freeze- Frame' started a four-week run at No.1 on the US album chart on the same day.
1988, Tiffany started a two week run at No.1 on the US singles chart with 'Could've Been', a No.4 hit in the UK. Tiffany had recorded the song 5 years ago when she was 13.
1996, Ex Jam members Bruce Foxton and Rick Buckler reached a high court settlement with Paul Weller after suing him for more than £100,000, after claiming they were owed royalties and group assets.
1998, American singer and guitarist Carl Wilson from The Beach Boys died aged 51 after a long battle with lung cancer, (Wilson was diagnosed with brain and lung cancer in early 1997). He sang lead vocal on 'God Only Knows', 'Good Vibrations,' and 'I Can Hear Music.' Wilson sang backing vocals on Elton John's 'Don't Let The Sun Go Down On Me.'
1998, Austrian singer Falco (Johann Holzel) was killed in a road accident after his car collided with a bus. He scored the 1986 UK & US No.1 single 'Rock Me Amadeus' making him the first-ever Austrian act to score a UK and US No.1 hit single.
2005, Eminem was at No.1 on the UK singles chart with 'Like Toy Soldiers', the rappers 6th No.1, taken from the album Encore. The track featured samples from 'Toy Soldiers' by Martika and '50 Ways to Leave Your Lover' by Paul Simon.
1916, Born on this day, Bill Doggett, US pianist, (1956 US No.2 single 'Honky Tonk Parts I & II').
1945, Born on this day, Bob Marley, singer/songwriter and guitarist who had a 1981 UK No.8 single with ‘No Woman No Cry’, plus over ten other UK Top 40 singles and the 1976 US No.8 & UK No. 15 album ‘Rastaman Vibration’. Marley died of cancer on May 11th 1981. The 1984 ‘Best Of’ album spent 330 weeks on the UK chart. In 1990, February 6th was proclaimed a national holiday in Jamaica to commemorate his birth. Inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1994.
1950, Born on this day, Natalie Cole, US singer, (1989 UK No.2 single 'Miss You Like Crazy'), Natalie is the daughter of Nat 'King' Cole.
1962, Born on this day, Axl Rose, vocals, Guns N' Roses, (1987 US No.1 album 'Appetite For Destruction' spent 158 week's o the UK chart. 1988 US No.1 & 1989 UK No.6 single 'Sweet Child O' Mine').
1966, Born on this day, Rick Astley, singer, (1987 UK & US No.1 single 'Never Gonna Give You Up', UK biggest seller of 87. Scored 7 other UK Top 10 hits, 1987 UK No.1 album 'Whenever You Need Somebody' 34 weeks on UK chart)
1960, 27 year-old Jesse Belvin, who scored a 1956 hit with ‘Goodnight, My Love’, was killed in a car accident in Hope, Arkansas. His wife and the car's driver also died of their injuries. The three were trying to make a fast get-a-way from the first ever mixed race audience concert in the town of Little Rock, after threats had been made against Belvin's life.
1965, The Righteous Brothers started a two week run at No.1 on the US singles chart with the Phil Spector produced 'You've Lost That Lovin' Feelin'. The song was also No.1 in the UK for the duo (who were not related in any way).
1965, The Rolling Stones second album 'Rolling Stones No.2' started a three-week run at No.1 on the UK charts.
1981, Composer Hugo Montenegro died in California. Had the 1968 UK No.1 & US No.2 single 'The Good The Bad And The Ugly' from the soundtrack to the Clint Eastwood spaghetti western film. Worked for RCA records, producing a series of albums and soundtracks and television themes, including two volumes of Music From The Man From U.N.C.L.E.
1982, Kraftwerk were at No.1 on the UK singles chart with 'The Model / Computer Love', the first German act to score a UK No.1 single. The single spent 21 weeks on the UK chart.
1982, The J Geils Band started a six week run at No.1 on the US singles chart with 'Centrefold', the bands only US No.1. A No.3 hit in the UK. The bands album 'Freeze- Frame' started a four-week run at No.1 on the US album chart on the same day.
1988, Tiffany started a two week run at No.1 on the US singles chart with 'Could've Been', a No.4 hit in the UK. Tiffany had recorded the song 5 years ago when she was 13.
1996, Ex Jam members Bruce Foxton and Rick Buckler reached a high court settlement with Paul Weller after suing him for more than £100,000, after claiming they were owed royalties and group assets.
1998, American singer and guitarist Carl Wilson from The Beach Boys died aged 51 after a long battle with lung cancer, (Wilson was diagnosed with brain and lung cancer in early 1997). He sang lead vocal on 'God Only Knows', 'Good Vibrations,' and 'I Can Hear Music.' Wilson sang backing vocals on Elton John's 'Don't Let The Sun Go Down On Me.'
1998, Austrian singer Falco (Johann Holzel) was killed in a road accident after his car collided with a bus. He scored the 1986 UK & US No.1 single 'Rock Me Amadeus' making him the first-ever Austrian act to score a UK and US No.1 hit single.
2005, Eminem was at No.1 on the UK singles chart with 'Like Toy Soldiers', the rappers 6th No.1, taken from the album Encore. The track featured samples from 'Toy Soldiers' by Martika and '50 Ways to Leave Your Lover' by Paul Simon.
1916, Born on this day, Bill Doggett, US pianist, (1956 US No.2 single 'Honky Tonk Parts I & II').
1945, Born on this day, Bob Marley, singer/songwriter and guitarist who had a 1981 UK No.8 single with ‘No Woman No Cry’, plus over ten other UK Top 40 singles and the 1976 US No.8 & UK No. 15 album ‘Rastaman Vibration’. Marley died of cancer on May 11th 1981. The 1984 ‘Best Of’ album spent 330 weeks on the UK chart. In 1990, February 6th was proclaimed a national holiday in Jamaica to commemorate his birth. Inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1994.
1950, Born on this day, Natalie Cole, US singer, (1989 UK No.2 single 'Miss You Like Crazy'), Natalie is the daughter of Nat 'King' Cole.
1962, Born on this day, Axl Rose, vocals, Guns N' Roses, (1987 US No.1 album 'Appetite For Destruction' spent 158 week's o the UK chart. 1988 US No.1 & 1989 UK No.6 single 'Sweet Child O' Mine').
1966, Born on this day, Rick Astley, singer, (1987 UK & US No.1 single 'Never Gonna Give You Up', UK biggest seller of 87. Scored 7 other UK Top 10 hits, 1987 UK No.1 album 'Whenever You Need Somebody' 34 weeks on UK chart)
These New Puritans - We Want War
These New Puritans are a British art punk rock band .The group consists of Jack Barnett (songwriter, producer, vocalist, multi-instrumentalist), his twin brother George Barnett (drums, loops), Thomas Hein (bass guitar, sampler, drums), and Sophie Sleigh-Johnson (keyboards, sampler).
This art-punk rock band started making music together in 2006 and made a name for themselves in 2008 with Beat Pyramid, an urgent and quintessentially British post-punk opus.
The band’s follow-up, Hidden , explores new sounds—it’s a grand, sweeping epic of an album that incorporates six-foot Japanese drums, brass and woodwind sections, a full school choir and cinematic sound effects. The weighty mix creates a futuristic fusion of classical, hip hop and pop that is heady, challenging and absolutely refreshing.
The album 'Hidden' has been voted official #1 album of 2010 by the NME magazine.
'We Want War' is a song heavily beat-driven, almost entirely absent of guitars, and laced with large amounts of elaborately arranged woodwind and brass.
This art-punk rock band started making music together in 2006 and made a name for themselves in 2008 with Beat Pyramid, an urgent and quintessentially British post-punk opus.
The band’s follow-up, Hidden , explores new sounds—it’s a grand, sweeping epic of an album that incorporates six-foot Japanese drums, brass and woodwind sections, a full school choir and cinematic sound effects. The weighty mix creates a futuristic fusion of classical, hip hop and pop that is heady, challenging and absolutely refreshing.
The album 'Hidden' has been voted official #1 album of 2010 by the NME magazine.
'We Want War' is a song heavily beat-driven, almost entirely absent of guitars, and laced with large amounts of elaborately arranged woodwind and brass.
White Lies - Bigger Than Us
White Lies are an English alternative rock band, formed in October 2007. The band consists primarily of Harry McVeigh (lead vocals, guitar), Charles Cave (bass guitar and backing vocals), and Jack Lawrence-Brown (drums).
Γheir debut album To Lose My Life... was released in January 2009, debuting at number one on the UK Albums Chart.
Their second album Ritual was recorded in 2010, and was released on 17 January 2011.
White Lies' musical style has been described as dark yet uplifting by the media, drawing comparisons to Joy Division, Editors and Interpol as well as Arcade Fire,The Killers, Echo & the Bunnymen,Tears for Fears and The Teardrop Explodes.
McVeigh's singing voice has been compared to that of Ian Curtis and Julian Cope.
When asked about the comparisons in an interview, McVeigh stated that "We weren't alive during that period of music...we've never really been that into Joy Division, especially not the Editors...or even Interpol really", adding "I don't think our music sounds a whole lot like those comparisons, I think we're a lot more euphoric and uplifting".
In 2009 they won the MOJO Breakthrough Award and Best New Band award by Q Magazine.
"Bigger Than Us" was released as the lead single on 3 January 2011 in the United Kingdom, where it debuted at number 42.
The video of the song is a homage to Steven Spielberg's 1982 film E.T.
The video recreates elements of E.T.'s apparent death whilst he is quarantined alongside Elliott. The character of E.T. is played by a large "Bigger Than Us" candy bar which contains a young girl...
There are other intertextual references to the film featured in the video, the basketballs circling the band at 2:56, the bright red light within the bass drum at 3:08 and the images of the woods where the original film sees E.T. return home.
Γheir debut album To Lose My Life... was released in January 2009, debuting at number one on the UK Albums Chart.
Their second album Ritual was recorded in 2010, and was released on 17 January 2011.
White Lies' musical style has been described as dark yet uplifting by the media, drawing comparisons to Joy Division, Editors and Interpol as well as Arcade Fire,The Killers, Echo & the Bunnymen,Tears for Fears and The Teardrop Explodes.
McVeigh's singing voice has been compared to that of Ian Curtis and Julian Cope.
When asked about the comparisons in an interview, McVeigh stated that "We weren't alive during that period of music...we've never really been that into Joy Division, especially not the Editors...or even Interpol really", adding "I don't think our music sounds a whole lot like those comparisons, I think we're a lot more euphoric and uplifting".
In 2009 they won the MOJO Breakthrough Award and Best New Band award by Q Magazine.
"Bigger Than Us" was released as the lead single on 3 January 2011 in the United Kingdom, where it debuted at number 42.
The video of the song is a homage to Steven Spielberg's 1982 film E.T.
The video recreates elements of E.T.'s apparent death whilst he is quarantined alongside Elliott. The character of E.T. is played by a large "Bigger Than Us" candy bar which contains a young girl...
There are other intertextual references to the film featured in the video, the basketballs circling the band at 2:56, the bright red light within the bass drum at 3:08 and the images of the woods where the original film sees E.T. return home.
Angus & Julia Stone - Big Jet Plane
Angus & Julia Stone are Australia’s "favourite hippies”, a brother-sister duo writing and singing simple but beautiful and fragile songs .
Delicate boy-girl harmonies which are hard to resist.
Their debut EP Chocolates and Cigarettes was released August 2006. Their second EP Heart Full of Wine was released in February 2007.
Their debut album A Book Like This was released on 8 September 2007 through EMI Music Australia and sold platinum (70,000) and March 2008 in UK/Europe through Flock Music.
The sophomore self-produced album Down the Way saw a simultaneous, worldwide release in March 2010. The album debuted at number 1 in their native country, reaching platinum status and becoming the highest-selling album by an Australian artist in 2010 in just two months.
The duo won ARIA Album of the Year and ARIA Single of the Year at the 2010 Australian Record Industry Awards for the song "Big Jet Plane".
Delicate boy-girl harmonies which are hard to resist.
Their debut EP Chocolates and Cigarettes was released August 2006. Their second EP Heart Full of Wine was released in February 2007.
Their debut album A Book Like This was released on 8 September 2007 through EMI Music Australia and sold platinum (70,000) and March 2008 in UK/Europe through Flock Music.
The sophomore self-produced album Down the Way saw a simultaneous, worldwide release in March 2010. The album debuted at number 1 in their native country, reaching platinum status and becoming the highest-selling album by an Australian artist in 2010 in just two months.
The duo won ARIA Album of the Year and ARIA Single of the Year at the 2010 Australian Record Industry Awards for the song "Big Jet Plane".
Saturday, February 5, 2011
This day in music history
1957, 5,000 fans greeted Bill Haley when he arrived from New York on the liner Queen Elizabeth at Southampton, for his debut UK concert tour. Haley was the first American rock artist to tour the UK.
1966, Petula Clark had her second No.1 in the US singles chart with 'My Love', (it made No. 4 in the UK).
1972, T Rex were at No.1 on the UK singles chart with 'Telegram Sam', the group's third UK No.1 and taken from their album The Slider.
1983, Def Leppard's album 'Pyromania', started a 92 week run on the US charts, it never reached No.1 but sold over 6 million copies in the US alone.
1983, Toto went to No.1 on the US singles with 'Africa'; a No.3 hit in the UK.
2000, American singer Doris Coley from The Shirelles died of breast cancer aged 58. (1961 US No.1 & UK No.4 single 'Will You Love Me Tomorrow').
2004, Janet Jackson's right breast became the most searched-for image in net history, Jackson's breast was seen by millions on TV after Justin Timberlake pulled at her bodice during a duet. Search engines reported a big jump in searches for Janet Jackson and Super Bowl, as people turned to the web for images of the event.
1941, Born on this day, Barrett Strong, US songwriter. Wrote many Motown hits with Norman Whitfield including, 'Money', 'War', 'Ball Of Confusion', 'Papa Was A Rolling Stone'.
1943, Born on this day, Chuck Winfield, trumpet, Blood Sweat & Tears, (1969 USNo.2 & UK No.35 single 'You've Made Me So Very Happy').
1960, Born on this day, Paul Jones, bass, Catatonia, (1998 UK No.3 single 'Mulder And Scully').
1964, Born on this day, Duff McKagan, bass, Guns N' Roses, (1998 US No.1 & 1989 UK No.6 single 'Sweet Child O' Mine'). Velvet Revolver (2004 US No.1 & UK No.11 album ‘Contraband’).
1968, Born on this day, Chris Barron, vocals, The Spin Doctors, (1993 UK No.3 & US No.7 single 'Two Princes').
1969, Born on this day, Bobby Brown, singer, New Edition, (1983 UK No.1 & US No.46 single 'Candy Girl') solo, (1988 UK No.6 & 1989 US No.1 single 'My Prerogative'). Married Whitney Houston 18th July 1992.
1966, Petula Clark had her second No.1 in the US singles chart with 'My Love', (it made No. 4 in the UK).
1972, T Rex were at No.1 on the UK singles chart with 'Telegram Sam', the group's third UK No.1 and taken from their album The Slider.
1983, Def Leppard's album 'Pyromania', started a 92 week run on the US charts, it never reached No.1 but sold over 6 million copies in the US alone.
1983, Toto went to No.1 on the US singles with 'Africa'; a No.3 hit in the UK.
2000, American singer Doris Coley from The Shirelles died of breast cancer aged 58. (1961 US No.1 & UK No.4 single 'Will You Love Me Tomorrow').
2004, Janet Jackson's right breast became the most searched-for image in net history, Jackson's breast was seen by millions on TV after Justin Timberlake pulled at her bodice during a duet. Search engines reported a big jump in searches for Janet Jackson and Super Bowl, as people turned to the web for images of the event.
1941, Born on this day, Barrett Strong, US songwriter. Wrote many Motown hits with Norman Whitfield including, 'Money', 'War', 'Ball Of Confusion', 'Papa Was A Rolling Stone'.
1943, Born on this day, Chuck Winfield, trumpet, Blood Sweat & Tears, (1969 USNo.2 & UK No.35 single 'You've Made Me So Very Happy').
1960, Born on this day, Paul Jones, bass, Catatonia, (1998 UK No.3 single 'Mulder And Scully').
1964, Born on this day, Duff McKagan, bass, Guns N' Roses, (1998 US No.1 & 1989 UK No.6 single 'Sweet Child O' Mine'). Velvet Revolver (2004 US No.1 & UK No.11 album ‘Contraband’).
1968, Born on this day, Chris Barron, vocals, The Spin Doctors, (1993 UK No.3 & US No.7 single 'Two Princes').
1969, Born on this day, Bobby Brown, singer, New Edition, (1983 UK No.1 & US No.46 single 'Candy Girl') solo, (1988 UK No.6 & 1989 US No.1 single 'My Prerogative'). Married Whitney Houston 18th July 1992.
The Verve - Bitter Sweet Symphony
The Verve were an English rock band formed in 1990 in Wigan by lead vocalist Richard Ashcroft, guitarist Nick McCabe, bassist Simon Jones, and drummer Peter Salisbury.
Beginning with a psychedelic sound indebted to shoegazing and space rock, by the mid-1990s the band had released several EPs and three albums. They also endured name and line-up changes, breakups, health problems, drug abuse and various lawsuits.
Their commercial breakthrough was the 1997 album Urban Hymns and their single "Bitter Sweet Symphony", which became a worldwide hit.
Soon after this commercial peak, the band broke up in April 1999, citing internal conflicts. The band's original line-up reunited in June 2007, embarking on a tour later that year and releasing the album Forth in August 2008. In 2009, the band broke up for the third time.
"Bitter Sweet Symphony" is based on music from an Andrew Loog Oldham adaptation of a Rolling Stones song, "The Last Time" and the song's lyrics were written by Verve vocalist Richard Ashcroft. It was released on 16 June 1997 reaching number two on the UK Singles Chart.
The song's momentum built slowly in the United States throughout the latter months of 1997, ultimately leading to a CD single release on 3 March 1998, helping the song to reach number twelve on the Billboard Hot 100. The song also became famous for the legal controversy surrounding plagiarism charges.
Rolling Stone ranked "Bitter Sweet Symphony" as the 382nd best song of all time.
In May 2007, NME magazine placed "Bitter Sweet Symphony" at number 18 in its list of the "50 Greatest Indie Anthems Ever".
In September 2007, a poll of 50 songwriters published in Q magazine placed "Bitter Sweet Symphony" in a list of the "Top 10 Greatest Tracks". Pitchfork Media's included the song at number 29 on their Top 200 Tracks of the 90s.
Beginning with a psychedelic sound indebted to shoegazing and space rock, by the mid-1990s the band had released several EPs and three albums. They also endured name and line-up changes, breakups, health problems, drug abuse and various lawsuits.
Their commercial breakthrough was the 1997 album Urban Hymns and their single "Bitter Sweet Symphony", which became a worldwide hit.
Soon after this commercial peak, the band broke up in April 1999, citing internal conflicts. The band's original line-up reunited in June 2007, embarking on a tour later that year and releasing the album Forth in August 2008. In 2009, the band broke up for the third time.
"Bitter Sweet Symphony" is based on music from an Andrew Loog Oldham adaptation of a Rolling Stones song, "The Last Time" and the song's lyrics were written by Verve vocalist Richard Ashcroft. It was released on 16 June 1997 reaching number two on the UK Singles Chart.
The song's momentum built slowly in the United States throughout the latter months of 1997, ultimately leading to a CD single release on 3 March 1998, helping the song to reach number twelve on the Billboard Hot 100. The song also became famous for the legal controversy surrounding plagiarism charges.
Rolling Stone ranked "Bitter Sweet Symphony" as the 382nd best song of all time.
In May 2007, NME magazine placed "Bitter Sweet Symphony" at number 18 in its list of the "50 Greatest Indie Anthems Ever".
In September 2007, a poll of 50 songwriters published in Q magazine placed "Bitter Sweet Symphony" in a list of the "Top 10 Greatest Tracks". Pitchfork Media's included the song at number 29 on their Top 200 Tracks of the 90s.
Oasis - Wonderwall
Oasis were an English rock band that formed in Manchester in 1991. The group was formed by Liam Gallagher (vocals and tambourine), Paul "Bonehead" Arthurs (guitar), Paul "Guigsy" McGuigan (bass guitar) and Tony McCarroll (drums, percussion), and Liam's older brother Noel Gallagher (lead guitar and vocals).
They have had eight UK number-one singles and eight UK number-one albums, and won fifteen NME Awards, nine Q Awards, four MTV Europe Music Awards and six BRIT Awards, including one in 2007 for outstanding contribution to music and one for the best album of the last 30 years as voted by the BBC Radio 2 listeners.
They have been nominated for three Grammy Awards. As of 2009, the band have sold an estimated 70 million records worldwide.
Also the band was listed in the Guinness Book of World Records in 2010 for “Longest Top 10 UK Chart Run By A Group” after an unprecedented run of 22 successive Top 10 hits in the UK.
The band also holds the Guinness World Record for being the "Most Successful Act of the Last Decade" in the UK between the years 1995 and 2005, spending 765 weeks in the Top 75 singles and albums charts.
The Gallagher brothers featured regularly in tabloid newspapers for their sibling disputes and wild lifestyles. In August 2009, Noel Gallagher announced his departure from the band after a backstage altercation with Liam before a festival appearance.
A band comprising of the remaining members of Oasis, led by Liam Gallagher, decided to continue working together under the name Beady Eye.
"Wonderwall" was written by the band's guitarist and main songwriter Noel Gallagher. Released as the third single from (What's the Story) Morning Glory? in October 1995, "Wonderwall" peaked at number two in the UK Singles Chart and proved to be their American breakthrough, reaching number eight on the Hot 100 singles chart and giving them their only top-ten U.S. hit.
"Wonderwall" is their signature song and it continues to have enduring popularity in Oasis's canon; as of 2008, it was 76th in the UK's list of best-selling singles, and sold over a million copies in single and download sales in the UK, where it went platinum.
According to Noel the song was written about a an imaginary friend who's gonna come and save you from yourself."
In May 2007, NME magazine placed "Wonderwall" at number 27 in its list of the 50 Greatest Indie Anthems Ever.
In 20 December 2007, VH1 placed "Wonderwall" at number 35 in its list of the 100 Greatest Songs of the '90s.
They have had eight UK number-one singles and eight UK number-one albums, and won fifteen NME Awards, nine Q Awards, four MTV Europe Music Awards and six BRIT Awards, including one in 2007 for outstanding contribution to music and one for the best album of the last 30 years as voted by the BBC Radio 2 listeners.
They have been nominated for three Grammy Awards. As of 2009, the band have sold an estimated 70 million records worldwide.
Also the band was listed in the Guinness Book of World Records in 2010 for “Longest Top 10 UK Chart Run By A Group” after an unprecedented run of 22 successive Top 10 hits in the UK.
The band also holds the Guinness World Record for being the "Most Successful Act of the Last Decade" in the UK between the years 1995 and 2005, spending 765 weeks in the Top 75 singles and albums charts.
The Gallagher brothers featured regularly in tabloid newspapers for their sibling disputes and wild lifestyles. In August 2009, Noel Gallagher announced his departure from the band after a backstage altercation with Liam before a festival appearance.
A band comprising of the remaining members of Oasis, led by Liam Gallagher, decided to continue working together under the name Beady Eye.
"Wonderwall" was written by the band's guitarist and main songwriter Noel Gallagher. Released as the third single from (What's the Story) Morning Glory? in October 1995, "Wonderwall" peaked at number two in the UK Singles Chart and proved to be their American breakthrough, reaching number eight on the Hot 100 singles chart and giving them their only top-ten U.S. hit.
"Wonderwall" is their signature song and it continues to have enduring popularity in Oasis's canon; as of 2008, it was 76th in the UK's list of best-selling singles, and sold over a million copies in single and download sales in the UK, where it went platinum.
According to Noel the song was written about a an imaginary friend who's gonna come and save you from yourself."
In May 2007, NME magazine placed "Wonderwall" at number 27 in its list of the 50 Greatest Indie Anthems Ever.
In 20 December 2007, VH1 placed "Wonderwall" at number 35 in its list of the 100 Greatest Songs of the '90s.
Suede - Beautiful Ones
Suede are an English alternative rock band. Formed in London in 1989, the group's most prominent early line-up featured singer Brett Anderson, guitarist Bernard Butler, bass player Mat Osman and drummer Simon Gilbert.
Suede's legacy is largely in inspiring the Britpop scene which eventually overshadowed the band's own achievements.
Suede appeared on Melody Maker's cover before they had a record out... The exposure got them a record deal, brought a bunch of like-minded acts to the public's attention, and helped create Britpop. It was the best thing to happen to music in years, and it mightn't have happened without that Suede cover.
The year following the Melody Maker cover saw Suede captivate a pop phenomenon of critical praise and hype. Not since the dawn of the Smiths had a British band caused such excitement with the release of just a few singles.
A March 1993 article in The Independent wrote that "Suede have had more hype than anybody since the Smiths, or possibly even the Sex Pistols.
Rolling Stone, said that "...Suede is everything that great British pop stars used to be, compelling, confounding, infuriating...in singer Brett Anderson, the band boasts one of the great love-it-or-loathe-it voices in English rock...both irresistable and believable.
Suede are regarded by many as the first British band to break into the mainstream from the new wave of alternative rock in the '90s. With their glam rock style and musical references of urban Britain, Suede paved the way for acts such as Blur and Pulp to enter the British mainstream.
In 1996 Suede went on to their greatest commercial success with Coming Up. The album charted at number one in the UK, producing five top ten singles and became their biggest-selling album worldwide.
"Beautiful Ones" is the second single off the album released on October 14, 1996 on Nude Records. The song written by Brett Anderson and Richard Oakes,became a Top Ten hit in the UK, peaking at #8.
Suede's legacy is largely in inspiring the Britpop scene which eventually overshadowed the band's own achievements.
Suede appeared on Melody Maker's cover before they had a record out... The exposure got them a record deal, brought a bunch of like-minded acts to the public's attention, and helped create Britpop. It was the best thing to happen to music in years, and it mightn't have happened without that Suede cover.
The year following the Melody Maker cover saw Suede captivate a pop phenomenon of critical praise and hype. Not since the dawn of the Smiths had a British band caused such excitement with the release of just a few singles.
A March 1993 article in The Independent wrote that "Suede have had more hype than anybody since the Smiths, or possibly even the Sex Pistols.
Rolling Stone, said that "...Suede is everything that great British pop stars used to be, compelling, confounding, infuriating...in singer Brett Anderson, the band boasts one of the great love-it-or-loathe-it voices in English rock...both irresistable and believable.
Suede are regarded by many as the first British band to break into the mainstream from the new wave of alternative rock in the '90s. With their glam rock style and musical references of urban Britain, Suede paved the way for acts such as Blur and Pulp to enter the British mainstream.
In 1996 Suede went on to their greatest commercial success with Coming Up. The album charted at number one in the UK, producing five top ten singles and became their biggest-selling album worldwide.
"Beautiful Ones" is the second single off the album released on October 14, 1996 on Nude Records. The song written by Brett Anderson and Richard Oakes,became a Top Ten hit in the UK, peaking at #8.
Friday, February 4, 2011
This day in music history
1965, The Righteous Brothers were at No.1 on the UK singles chart with the Phil Spector song 'You've Lost That Lovin' Feelin'. Also a US No.1 at the same time. In 1999 the PRS announced that it was the most played song of the 20th Century.
1967, The Monkees self-titled debut album started a seven-week run at No.1 on the UK chart.
1968, Billed as 'Tour 60 cities in 66 Days' The Jimi Hendrix Experience appeared at the Winterland in San Francisco.
1975, American jazz, blues, songwriter and saxophonist Louis Jordon died aged 66. Known as "The King of the Jukebox", between 1942-1950 he scored eighteen No.1 singles and fifty-four Top Ten hits on the US R&B chart.
1978, Abba started a seven week run at No.1 on the UK chart with 'The Album' their third No.1 LP.
1978, The Bee Gees started a four week run at No.1 on the US singles chart with 'Staying Alive'. From the film soundtrack Saturday Night Fever, it gave the brothers their fifth US No.1, also No.1 in the UK.
1983, Karen Carpenter died aged 32 of a cardiac arrest at her parent's house in Downey, California; the coroner's report gave the cause of death of imbalances associated with anorexia nervosa. The Carpenters 1970 album Close to You, featured two hit singles: ‘(They Long to Be) Close to You’ and ‘We've Only Just Begun.’ They peaked at No.1 and No.2, on the US chart.
1984, Culture Club started a three-week run at No.1 on the US singles chart with 'Karma Chameleon' the group's 5th US Top 10 hit, also a No.1 in the UK.
1984, Eurythmics scored their first UK No.1 album with their second release 'Touch', featuring the singles 'Here Comes The Rain Again', 'Who's That Girl' and 'Right By Your Side'.
1999, American soul singer Gwen Guthrie died of cancer aged 48. Sang backing vocals for Aretha Franklin, Billy Joel, Stevie Wonder and Madonna and wrote songs for Sister Sledge and Roberta Flack. Had the 1986 R&B No.1 ‘Ain't Nothin' Goin' on But the Rent’.
2007, Norah Jones scored her third UK No.1 album with 'Not Too Late', also a No.1 in the US and over 20 other countries.
2008, Leona Lewis went to No.1 on the Australian album charts with her debut release ‘Spirit.’
1941, Born on this day, John Steel, drums, The Animals, (1964 UK & US No.1 single 'House Of The Rising Sun').
1944, Born on this day, Florence Larue, The 5th Dimension, (1969 US No.1 & UK No.11 single 'Aquarius').
1947, Born on this day, Margie and Mary Ann Ganser, vocalists for The Shangri-Las, who had a 1964 US No.1 & UK No.11 single with ‘Leader Of The Pack’. Margie died of breast cancer on July 28th 1996.
1948, Born on this day, Alice Cooper, (Vincent Furnier), singer, Earwigs, Alice Cooper Band, (1972 UK No.1 & US No.7 single 'School's Out').
1950, Born on this day, James Dunn, vocals, The Stylistics, (1975 US No.1 single 'You Make Me Feel Brand New', 1975 UK No.1 single 'Can't Give You Anything But My Love' plus 15 other UK Top 40 singles).
1960, Born on this day, Tim Booth, vocals, James, (1991 UK No.2 single 'Sit Down'), Solo.
1963, Born on this day, Wasserman, guitar, The Offspring, (1999 UK No.1 & US No. 59 single 'Pretty Fly, (For A White Guy)', 1999 US No.6 & UK No.10 album 'Americana')
.
1975, Born on this day, Natalie Imbruglia, actress, singer, (1997 UK No.2 single 'Torn', 1997 UK No.5 album 'Left Of The Middle').
1967, The Monkees self-titled debut album started a seven-week run at No.1 on the UK chart.
1968, Billed as 'Tour 60 cities in 66 Days' The Jimi Hendrix Experience appeared at the Winterland in San Francisco.
1975, American jazz, blues, songwriter and saxophonist Louis Jordon died aged 66. Known as "The King of the Jukebox", between 1942-1950 he scored eighteen No.1 singles and fifty-four Top Ten hits on the US R&B chart.
1978, Abba started a seven week run at No.1 on the UK chart with 'The Album' their third No.1 LP.
1978, The Bee Gees started a four week run at No.1 on the US singles chart with 'Staying Alive'. From the film soundtrack Saturday Night Fever, it gave the brothers their fifth US No.1, also No.1 in the UK.
1983, Karen Carpenter died aged 32 of a cardiac arrest at her parent's house in Downey, California; the coroner's report gave the cause of death of imbalances associated with anorexia nervosa. The Carpenters 1970 album Close to You, featured two hit singles: ‘(They Long to Be) Close to You’ and ‘We've Only Just Begun.’ They peaked at No.1 and No.2, on the US chart.
1984, Culture Club started a three-week run at No.1 on the US singles chart with 'Karma Chameleon' the group's 5th US Top 10 hit, also a No.1 in the UK.
1984, Eurythmics scored their first UK No.1 album with their second release 'Touch', featuring the singles 'Here Comes The Rain Again', 'Who's That Girl' and 'Right By Your Side'.
1999, American soul singer Gwen Guthrie died of cancer aged 48. Sang backing vocals for Aretha Franklin, Billy Joel, Stevie Wonder and Madonna and wrote songs for Sister Sledge and Roberta Flack. Had the 1986 R&B No.1 ‘Ain't Nothin' Goin' on But the Rent’.
2007, Norah Jones scored her third UK No.1 album with 'Not Too Late', also a No.1 in the US and over 20 other countries.
2008, Leona Lewis went to No.1 on the Australian album charts with her debut release ‘Spirit.’
1941, Born on this day, John Steel, drums, The Animals, (1964 UK & US No.1 single 'House Of The Rising Sun').
1944, Born on this day, Florence Larue, The 5th Dimension, (1969 US No.1 & UK No.11 single 'Aquarius').
1947, Born on this day, Margie and Mary Ann Ganser, vocalists for The Shangri-Las, who had a 1964 US No.1 & UK No.11 single with ‘Leader Of The Pack’. Margie died of breast cancer on July 28th 1996.
1948, Born on this day, Alice Cooper, (Vincent Furnier), singer, Earwigs, Alice Cooper Band, (1972 UK No.1 & US No.7 single 'School's Out').
1950, Born on this day, James Dunn, vocals, The Stylistics, (1975 US No.1 single 'You Make Me Feel Brand New', 1975 UK No.1 single 'Can't Give You Anything But My Love' plus 15 other UK Top 40 singles).
1960, Born on this day, Tim Booth, vocals, James, (1991 UK No.2 single 'Sit Down'), Solo.
1963, Born on this day, Wasserman, guitar, The Offspring, (1999 UK No.1 & US No. 59 single 'Pretty Fly, (For A White Guy)', 1999 US No.6 & UK No.10 album 'Americana')
.
1975, Born on this day, Natalie Imbruglia, actress, singer, (1997 UK No.2 single 'Torn', 1997 UK No.5 album 'Left Of The Middle').
The Jam - Town Called Malice
The Jam were an English punk rock/mod revival band active during the late 1970s and early 1980s.
While they shared the "angry young men" outlook and fast tempos of their punk rock contemporaries, The Jam wore neatly tailored suits rather than ripped clothes, and they incorporated a number of mainstream 1960s rock influences rather than rejecting them, placing The Jam at the forefront of the mod revival movement.
They had 18 consecutive Top 40 singles in the United Kingdom, from their debut in 1977 to their breakup in December 1982, including four number one hits.
As of 2007, "That's Entertainment" and "Just Who Is the 5 O'Clock Hero?" remained the best-selling import singles of all time in the UK.
They released one live album and six studio albums, the last of which, The Gift, hit number one on the UK album charts. When the group split up, their first 15 singles were re-released and all placed within the top 100.
The band launched the career of Paul Weller, who went on to form The Style Council and later had a successful solo career. Weller wrote and sang most of The Jam’s original compositions, and he played lead guitar, using a Rickenbacker.
Bruce Foxton provided backing vocals and prominent basslines, which were the foundation of many of the band’s songs, including the hits "Down in the Tube Station at Midnight", "The Eton Rifles", "Going Underground" and "Town Called Malice".
"Town Called Malice" was released as the first single from the album The Gift on 29 January 1982. It reached number one in the UK singles chart.
Paul Weller has said that it was written about his hometown Woking as a result of his teenage experiences there.
While they shared the "angry young men" outlook and fast tempos of their punk rock contemporaries, The Jam wore neatly tailored suits rather than ripped clothes, and they incorporated a number of mainstream 1960s rock influences rather than rejecting them, placing The Jam at the forefront of the mod revival movement.
They had 18 consecutive Top 40 singles in the United Kingdom, from their debut in 1977 to their breakup in December 1982, including four number one hits.
As of 2007, "That's Entertainment" and "Just Who Is the 5 O'Clock Hero?" remained the best-selling import singles of all time in the UK.
They released one live album and six studio albums, the last of which, The Gift, hit number one on the UK album charts. When the group split up, their first 15 singles were re-released and all placed within the top 100.
The band launched the career of Paul Weller, who went on to form The Style Council and later had a successful solo career. Weller wrote and sang most of The Jam’s original compositions, and he played lead guitar, using a Rickenbacker.
Bruce Foxton provided backing vocals and prominent basslines, which were the foundation of many of the band’s songs, including the hits "Down in the Tube Station at Midnight", "The Eton Rifles", "Going Underground" and "Town Called Malice".
"Town Called Malice" was released as the first single from the album The Gift on 29 January 1982. It reached number one in the UK singles chart.
Paul Weller has said that it was written about his hometown Woking as a result of his teenage experiences there.
The Smiths - How Soon Is Now?
The Smiths were an English rock band, formed in Manchester in 1982. Based on the songwriting partnership of Morrissey (vocals) and Johnny Marr (guitar), the band also included Andy Rourke (bass) and Mike Joyce (drums).
Critics have called them the most important alternative rock band to emerge from the British independent music scene of the 1980s.
The Smiths have influenced a number of alternative rock bands through their career. The lovesick, literary style of Morrissey and Marr's guitar playing "was a huge building block for more Manchester legends that followed The Smiths - Oasis guitarist Noel Gallagher stated that "when The Jam split, The Smiths started, and I totally went for them."
The Smiths were the most influential British guitar group of the decade.
As the first indie outsiders to achieve mainstream success on their own terms they elevated rock's standard four-piece formula to new heights of magic and poetry.
The group were signed to the independent record label Rough Trade Records, for whom they released four studio albums and several compilations, as well as numerous non-LP singles.
Although they had limited commercial success outside the UK while they were still together, and never released a single that charted higher than number 10 in their home country, The Smiths won a growing following, and remain cult and commercial favourites.
The band broke up in 1987 amid disagreements betweenMorrissey and Marr and have turned down several offers to reunite since then.
How Soon Is Now?" it was originally a B-side of the 1984 single "William, It Was Really Nothing". It was belatedly released as a single in the UK in 1985, where it reached number 24 on the UK Singles Chart.
In 2004, Rolling Stone magazine rated the song number 486 in its list of The 500 Greatest Songs of All Time and number 90 in its list of the 100 Greatest Guitar Songs.
In March 2005, Q magazine placed it at number 28 in its list of the 100 Greatest Guitar Tracks.
In 2006, "How Soon Is Now?" was voted runner up in VH1’s "Top Lyrics" poll for the lyrics, "So you go and you stand on your own, and you leave on your own, and you go home, and you cry, and you want to die" and marginally missed out on top spot to U2’s "One".
In May 2007, NME magazine placed "How Soon Is Now?" at number seven in its list of the 50 Greatest Indie Anthems Ever.
Critics have called them the most important alternative rock band to emerge from the British independent music scene of the 1980s.
The Smiths have influenced a number of alternative rock bands through their career. The lovesick, literary style of Morrissey and Marr's guitar playing "was a huge building block for more Manchester legends that followed The Smiths - Oasis guitarist Noel Gallagher stated that "when The Jam split, The Smiths started, and I totally went for them."
The Smiths were the most influential British guitar group of the decade.
As the first indie outsiders to achieve mainstream success on their own terms they elevated rock's standard four-piece formula to new heights of magic and poetry.
The group were signed to the independent record label Rough Trade Records, for whom they released four studio albums and several compilations, as well as numerous non-LP singles.
Although they had limited commercial success outside the UK while they were still together, and never released a single that charted higher than number 10 in their home country, The Smiths won a growing following, and remain cult and commercial favourites.
The band broke up in 1987 amid disagreements betweenMorrissey and Marr and have turned down several offers to reunite since then.
How Soon Is Now?" it was originally a B-side of the 1984 single "William, It Was Really Nothing". It was belatedly released as a single in the UK in 1985, where it reached number 24 on the UK Singles Chart.
In 2004, Rolling Stone magazine rated the song number 486 in its list of The 500 Greatest Songs of All Time and number 90 in its list of the 100 Greatest Guitar Songs.
In March 2005, Q magazine placed it at number 28 in its list of the 100 Greatest Guitar Tracks.
In 2006, "How Soon Is Now?" was voted runner up in VH1’s "Top Lyrics" poll for the lyrics, "So you go and you stand on your own, and you leave on your own, and you go home, and you cry, and you want to die" and marginally missed out on top spot to U2’s "One".
In May 2007, NME magazine placed "How Soon Is Now?" at number seven in its list of the 50 Greatest Indie Anthems Ever.
Bauhaus - Ziggy Stardust
Bauhaus were an English rock band formed in Northampton in 1978.
Their sound proved influential, inspiring or bringing attention to a whole wave of post-punk groups delving into the intense, gloomy style that would eventually come to be known as gothic rock.
Its crucial elements included Peter Murphy's deep and sonorous voice, Daniel Ash's innovative guitar playing and David J's dub-influenced bass.
As the NME says,"Bauhaus are to Goth, what Radiohead are to Prog."
In 1982 Bauhaus scored their biggest hit with a cover of David Bowie's 1972 song "Ziggy Stardust", which was recorded during a BBC session. The song reached number fifteen on the British charts and earned the band an appearance on the television show Top Of The Pops.
Thanks to the success of the single, the album The Sky's Gone Out,also became the band's biggest hit, peaking at number four.
Ziggy is the human manifestation of an alien being who is attempting to present humanity with a message of hope in the last five years of its existence. Ziggy Stardust is the definitive rock star: sexually promiscuous, wild in drug intake and with a message, ultimately, of peace and love; but he is destroyed both by his own excesses of drugs and sex, and by the fans he inspire.
Their sound proved influential, inspiring or bringing attention to a whole wave of post-punk groups delving into the intense, gloomy style that would eventually come to be known as gothic rock.
Its crucial elements included Peter Murphy's deep and sonorous voice, Daniel Ash's innovative guitar playing and David J's dub-influenced bass.
As the NME says,"Bauhaus are to Goth, what Radiohead are to Prog."
In 1982 Bauhaus scored their biggest hit with a cover of David Bowie's 1972 song "Ziggy Stardust", which was recorded during a BBC session. The song reached number fifteen on the British charts and earned the band an appearance on the television show Top Of The Pops.
Thanks to the success of the single, the album The Sky's Gone Out,also became the band's biggest hit, peaking at number four.
Ziggy is the human manifestation of an alien being who is attempting to present humanity with a message of hope in the last five years of its existence. Ziggy Stardust is the definitive rock star: sexually promiscuous, wild in drug intake and with a message, ultimately, of peace and love; but he is destroyed both by his own excesses of drugs and sex, and by the fans he inspire.
Thursday, February 3, 2011
This day in music history
1959, 22 year old Buddy Holly, The Big Bopper and Ritchie Valens, aged 17, died in a crash shortly after take-off from Clear Lake, Iowa, the pilot of the single-engined Beechcraft Bonanza plane was also killed. Holly hired the plane after heating problems developed on his tourbus. All three were traveling to Fargo, North Dakota, for the next show on their Winter Dance Party Tour which Holly had set - covering 24 cities in three weeks, to make money after the break-up of his band, The Crickets, last year.
1968, The Beatles started work on their new single ‘Lady Madonna’ at Abbey Road studios in London. Recording three piano and drum takes with overdub bass, fuzz guitars, drums, and vocals.
1973, Elton John started a three-week run at No.1 on the US singles chart with 'Crocodile Rock'. Elton's first of five US No.1 singles.
1979, Blondie had their first of five UK No.1 singles, with 'Heart Of Glass', taken from the band's third studio album, Parallel Lines. 'Heart of Glass' was originally recorded in 1975 under the name 'Once I Had a Love.'
1979, The Blues Brothers went to No.1 on the US album chart with 'Briefcase Full Of Blues'.
1990, For the first time ever, the UK Top 3 singles featured non-British and non-American acts. Ireland's Sinead O'Connor, Australia's Kylie Minogue and Belgium's Technotronic. Sinead O'Connor had her first No.1 single with Nothing Compares To U', a song written by Prince.
1993, Radiohead appeared at The Wheatsheaf, Stoke On Trent, England, tickets cost £3.50 ($5.95).
1996, The Ramones claimed to have played their last gig in the UK, at The Brixton Academy, after 22 years together.
2002, The Chemical Brothers scored their third UK No.1 album with ‘Come With Us.’
2006, Former Dynasty star Heather Locklear filed for divorce from Bon Jovi guitarist Richie Sambora after 11 years of marriage. Locklear who was previously married to Motley Crue drummer Tommy Lee and Sambora were married in 1994 and have an eight-year-old daughter called Ava.
2010, AC/DC singer Brian Johnson, joined a growing group of critics of Bob Geldof and U2 singer Bono over their very public charity work, saying they should stop lecturing audiences about charity work and instead do their good deeds in private. Johnson said “When I was a working man I didn’t want to go to a concert for some bastard to talk down to me that I should be thinking of some kid in Africa. I’m sorry mate, do it yourself, spend some of your own money and get it done. It just makes me angry.”
1928, Born on this day, Frankie Vaughan, UK singer. During the 50's he scored twenty UK Top 30 singles including, UK No.2 'Green Door'. Made an OBE in 1965. Died 17th Sept 1999 aged 71.
1943, Born on this day, Eric Haydock, bass, The Hollies, over 25 Top 40 singles since 1963, (1972 US No.2 single 'Long Cool Woman In A Black Dress', 1988 UK No.1 single 'He Ain't Heavy, He's My Brother', first released in 1969.
1947, Born on this day, Dave Davies, guitarist, 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).
1959, Born on this day, Lol Tolhurst, keyboards, The Cure, 1989 US No.2 single 'Love Song', 1992 UK No.6 single 'Friday I'm In Love', plus over 20 other UK Top 40 singles).
1968, The Beatles started work on their new single ‘Lady Madonna’ at Abbey Road studios in London. Recording three piano and drum takes with overdub bass, fuzz guitars, drums, and vocals.
1973, Elton John started a three-week run at No.1 on the US singles chart with 'Crocodile Rock'. Elton's first of five US No.1 singles.
1979, Blondie had their first of five UK No.1 singles, with 'Heart Of Glass', taken from the band's third studio album, Parallel Lines. 'Heart of Glass' was originally recorded in 1975 under the name 'Once I Had a Love.'
1979, The Blues Brothers went to No.1 on the US album chart with 'Briefcase Full Of Blues'.
1990, For the first time ever, the UK Top 3 singles featured non-British and non-American acts. Ireland's Sinead O'Connor, Australia's Kylie Minogue and Belgium's Technotronic. Sinead O'Connor had her first No.1 single with Nothing Compares To U', a song written by Prince.
1993, Radiohead appeared at The Wheatsheaf, Stoke On Trent, England, tickets cost £3.50 ($5.95).
1996, The Ramones claimed to have played their last gig in the UK, at The Brixton Academy, after 22 years together.
2002, The Chemical Brothers scored their third UK No.1 album with ‘Come With Us.’
2006, Former Dynasty star Heather Locklear filed for divorce from Bon Jovi guitarist Richie Sambora after 11 years of marriage. Locklear who was previously married to Motley Crue drummer Tommy Lee and Sambora were married in 1994 and have an eight-year-old daughter called Ava.
2010, AC/DC singer Brian Johnson, joined a growing group of critics of Bob Geldof and U2 singer Bono over their very public charity work, saying they should stop lecturing audiences about charity work and instead do their good deeds in private. Johnson said “When I was a working man I didn’t want to go to a concert for some bastard to talk down to me that I should be thinking of some kid in Africa. I’m sorry mate, do it yourself, spend some of your own money and get it done. It just makes me angry.”
1928, Born on this day, Frankie Vaughan, UK singer. During the 50's he scored twenty UK Top 30 singles including, UK No.2 'Green Door'. Made an OBE in 1965. Died 17th Sept 1999 aged 71.
1943, Born on this day, Eric Haydock, bass, The Hollies, over 25 Top 40 singles since 1963, (1972 US No.2 single 'Long Cool Woman In A Black Dress', 1988 UK No.1 single 'He Ain't Heavy, He's My Brother', first released in 1969.
1947, Born on this day, Dave Davies, guitarist, 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).
1959, Born on this day, Lol Tolhurst, keyboards, The Cure, 1989 US No.2 single 'Love Song', 1992 UK No.6 single 'Friday I'm In Love', plus over 20 other UK Top 40 singles).
AC/DC - Highway to Hell
AC/DC are an Australian rock band, formed in 1973 by brothers Malcolm and Angus Young. Although the band are commonly classified as hard rock and are considered a pioneer of heavy metal,they have always classified their music as rock and roll.
To date they are one of the highest grossing bands of all time.
AC/DC underwent several line-up changes before releasing their first album, High Voltage, in 1975. Membership remained stable until bassist Mark Evans was replaced by Cliff Williams in 1978 for the album Powerage.
Within months of recording the album Highway to Hell, lead singer and co-songwriter Bon Scott died on 19 February 1980, after a night of heavy alcohol consumption. The group briefly considered disbanding, but Scott's parents urged them to continue and hire a new vocalist. Ex-Geordie singer Brian Johnson was auditioned and selected to replace Scott. Later that year, the band released their highest selling album, Back in Black.
As of 2010, AC/DC have sold more than 200 million albums worldwide, as of the releases of their latest albums, Black Ice and the Iron Man 2 soundtrack, including 71 million albums in the United States.
Back in Black has sold an estimated 49 million units worldwide, making it the highest-selling album by any band and the second-highest-selling album in history, behind Thriller by Michael Jackson.The album has sold 22 million in the US alone, where it is the fifth-highest-selling album.
AC/DC ranked fourth on VH1's list of the "100 Greatest Artists of Hard Rock"and were named the seventh "Greatest Heavy Metal Band of All Time" by MTV.
In 2004, AC/DC were ranked number 72 in the Rolling Stone list of the "100 Greatest Artists of All Time".
"Highway to Hell" is the opening track of AC/DC's 1979 album Highway to Hell and was written by Bon Scott, Angus Young and Malcolm Young while the main guitar riff was created by Angus Young. The track has become one of the most famous songs in rock history.
The song and album's title supposedly came after a reporter asked band members if they could describe what life was like being constantly on tour. Angus replied that it was "a fucking highway to hell". He stated in the magazine Guitar World that when you are out on the road on a bus sleeping with a guy's smelly sock in your face, it's like you're on the highway to hell.
However, rumours circulated that the band members were Satanists and the cover of the album named after the song, depicting Angus with devil horns and tail, added fuel to the fire. The band has denied having anything to do with Satanism.
To be continued..
To date they are one of the highest grossing bands of all time.
AC/DC underwent several line-up changes before releasing their first album, High Voltage, in 1975. Membership remained stable until bassist Mark Evans was replaced by Cliff Williams in 1978 for the album Powerage.
Within months of recording the album Highway to Hell, lead singer and co-songwriter Bon Scott died on 19 February 1980, after a night of heavy alcohol consumption. The group briefly considered disbanding, but Scott's parents urged them to continue and hire a new vocalist. Ex-Geordie singer Brian Johnson was auditioned and selected to replace Scott. Later that year, the band released their highest selling album, Back in Black.
As of 2010, AC/DC have sold more than 200 million albums worldwide, as of the releases of their latest albums, Black Ice and the Iron Man 2 soundtrack, including 71 million albums in the United States.
Back in Black has sold an estimated 49 million units worldwide, making it the highest-selling album by any band and the second-highest-selling album in history, behind Thriller by Michael Jackson.The album has sold 22 million in the US alone, where it is the fifth-highest-selling album.
AC/DC ranked fourth on VH1's list of the "100 Greatest Artists of Hard Rock"and were named the seventh "Greatest Heavy Metal Band of All Time" by MTV.
In 2004, AC/DC were ranked number 72 in the Rolling Stone list of the "100 Greatest Artists of All Time".
"Highway to Hell" is the opening track of AC/DC's 1979 album Highway to Hell and was written by Bon Scott, Angus Young and Malcolm Young while the main guitar riff was created by Angus Young. The track has become one of the most famous songs in rock history.
The song and album's title supposedly came after a reporter asked band members if they could describe what life was like being constantly on tour. Angus replied that it was "a fucking highway to hell". He stated in the magazine Guitar World that when you are out on the road on a bus sleeping with a guy's smelly sock in your face, it's like you're on the highway to hell.
However, rumours circulated that the band members were Satanists and the cover of the album named after the song, depicting Angus with devil horns and tail, added fuel to the fire. The band has denied having anything to do with Satanism.
To be continued..
Knack - My Sharona
The Knack was an American New Wave rock quartet based in Los Angeles that rose to fame with their first single, "My Sharona", an international number one hit in 1979.
The band's debut album, Get The Knack, was one of the year's biggest albums, holding the number one spot on Billboard magazine's album chart for five consecutive weeks and selling two million copies in the United States. Lead single "My Sharona" was a #1 hit in the US, and became the number one song of 1979.
Their follow-up album ...But the Little Girls Understand,was released in early 1980. Though the album went gold in the US and Japan, and platinum in Canada, it didn't meet with the same level of commercial success as their debut.
After nearly a year of relentless touring in the US, Canada, Europe, New Zealand, Australia, and Japan, they released their third album, Round Trip. However, the record (which came out in October 1981) was a serious commercial disappointment, only reaching #93 on the US charts, selling a mere 150,000 copies.
With The Knack experiencing rapidly diminishing chart success, and mounting critical backlash against them the group broke up amidst internal squabbles on December 31st, 1981, mere months after the release of Round Trip.
In 1990 The Knack reunited and recorded the album Serious Fun which was released in February 1991. Lead single "Rocket O' Love" was a top 10 hit on US AOR stations, becoming the band's second best known song (behind My Sharona). Unfortunately, theu company Charisma collapsed after the death of the label's founder, Tony Stratton-Smith, and the group broke up again in 1992.
Several re-unions took place just for concerts up to 2006,when during a performance in Las Vegas, Doug Fieger became disoriented, developing a dull headache, and grasping for the words to the songs that he had written and performed for years.Diagnosed with two brain tumors, Fieger underwent surgery and radiosurgery and returned to performing.
However, he still continued to battle brain and lung cancer until his death on February 14, 2010, in Woodland Hills, California, at the age of 57.
The riff of "My Sharona" was written by the band's guitarist, Berton Averre, years before he joined The Knack. He had played it and a drum groove for Doug Fieger, the group's lead singer and rhythm guitarist, who loved it and promised to make it a song. However, Fieger, with no lyric ideas to add, was unsure what to do with it beyond that.
When Fieger, who was 25, met Sharona Alperin, who was 17 at the time, she inspired a two-month-long run of songwriting, as well as becoming Fieger's girlfriend for the next four years.
Sharona herself appears on the picture sleeve for the single, and became a major booster of the band bringing many girls to their early shows.
"My Sharona" was ranked at #75 on the Billboard Hot 100 All-Time Top Songs in 2008.
When Fieger died in 2010, The New York Times called the song "an emblem of the new wave era in rock and a prime example of the brevity of pop fame."
The band's debut album, Get The Knack, was one of the year's biggest albums, holding the number one spot on Billboard magazine's album chart for five consecutive weeks and selling two million copies in the United States. Lead single "My Sharona" was a #1 hit in the US, and became the number one song of 1979.
Their follow-up album ...But the Little Girls Understand,was released in early 1980. Though the album went gold in the US and Japan, and platinum in Canada, it didn't meet with the same level of commercial success as their debut.
After nearly a year of relentless touring in the US, Canada, Europe, New Zealand, Australia, and Japan, they released their third album, Round Trip. However, the record (which came out in October 1981) was a serious commercial disappointment, only reaching #93 on the US charts, selling a mere 150,000 copies.
With The Knack experiencing rapidly diminishing chart success, and mounting critical backlash against them the group broke up amidst internal squabbles on December 31st, 1981, mere months after the release of Round Trip.
In 1990 The Knack reunited and recorded the album Serious Fun which was released in February 1991. Lead single "Rocket O' Love" was a top 10 hit on US AOR stations, becoming the band's second best known song (behind My Sharona). Unfortunately, theu company Charisma collapsed after the death of the label's founder, Tony Stratton-Smith, and the group broke up again in 1992.
Several re-unions took place just for concerts up to 2006,when during a performance in Las Vegas, Doug Fieger became disoriented, developing a dull headache, and grasping for the words to the songs that he had written and performed for years.Diagnosed with two brain tumors, Fieger underwent surgery and radiosurgery and returned to performing.
However, he still continued to battle brain and lung cancer until his death on February 14, 2010, in Woodland Hills, California, at the age of 57.
The riff of "My Sharona" was written by the band's guitarist, Berton Averre, years before he joined The Knack. He had played it and a drum groove for Doug Fieger, the group's lead singer and rhythm guitarist, who loved it and promised to make it a song. However, Fieger, with no lyric ideas to add, was unsure what to do with it beyond that.
When Fieger, who was 25, met Sharona Alperin, who was 17 at the time, she inspired a two-month-long run of songwriting, as well as becoming Fieger's girlfriend for the next four years.
Sharona herself appears on the picture sleeve for the single, and became a major booster of the band bringing many girls to their early shows.
"My Sharona" was ranked at #75 on the Billboard Hot 100 All-Time Top Songs in 2008.
When Fieger died in 2010, The New York Times called the song "an emblem of the new wave era in rock and a prime example of the brevity of pop fame."
Blue Öyster Cult - (Don't Fear) The Reaper
Blue Öyster Cult, often abbreviated BÖC, is an American rock band formed in New York in 1967 and still active as of 2011. They have sold over 124 million albums worldwide - including 7 million in the US alone.
The name "Blue Öyster Cult" came from a 1960s poem written by manager Sandy Pearlman. It was part of his "Imaginos" poetry, later used more extensively in their 1988 album Imaginos.In Pearlman's poetry, the "Blue Oyster Cult" was a group of aliens who had assembled to secretly guide Earth's history. Initially, the band was not happy with the name, but settled for it, and went to work preparing to record their first release...
The hook-and-cross logo was designed by Bill Gawlik in January 1972,and appears on all of the band's albums.In Greek mythology, "...the hook-and-cross symbol is that of Kronos (Cronus), the king of the Titans and father of Zeus...and is the alchemical symbol for lead (a heavy metal), one of the heaviest of metals.
Sandy Pearlman considered this, combined with the heavy and distorted guitar sound of the band and decided the description "heavy metal" would be aptly applied to Blue Öyster Cult's musical sound. In Roman mythology, the hook-and-cross symbol represents Saturn, the God of agriculture and fertility.
The logo's "...metaphysical, alchemical and mythological connotations, combined with its similarity to some religious symbols gave it a flair of decadence and mystery...".
Due to their unique sound and diversity, Blue Öyster Cult have been very influential to many modern bands that span many genres, and are often viewed as important pioneers of several different styles of rock music that came to prominence in the 1980s and 1990s. Many heavy metal bands have cited them as a major influence, and bands such as Metallica, HIM, and Iced Earth have covered their songs on studio recordings and during live performances.
Τheir first platinum album was Agents of Fortune (1976). It contained the hit single "(Don't Fear) The Reaper", which reached #12 on the Billboard charts.
It was written and sung by the band's lead guitarist, Donald "Buck Dharma" Roeser, produced by Sandy Pearlman, and is built around Dharma's guitar riff that opens the song and continues throughout.
The song's popularity also proved to be very long-lasting there, as of 2010 it has sold approximately 922,000 digital copies. It reached #16 on the UK pop chart in 1978.
Part of the song's appeal consists in its resonance with archetypal themes. The reaper is a reference to the Grim Reaper, a traditional personification of death in European folklore. Moreover, songs and poetry pairing "Death and the Maiden" date back to the time before the Middle Ages. Dharma says the song is about eternal love
The song has also been covered by many diverse artists, notably Evanescence, The Goo Goo Dolls, The Beautiful South, Wilco, Big Country, and deceased singer-songwriter Elliott Smith.
The name "Blue Öyster Cult" came from a 1960s poem written by manager Sandy Pearlman. It was part of his "Imaginos" poetry, later used more extensively in their 1988 album Imaginos.In Pearlman's poetry, the "Blue Oyster Cult" was a group of aliens who had assembled to secretly guide Earth's history. Initially, the band was not happy with the name, but settled for it, and went to work preparing to record their first release...
The hook-and-cross logo was designed by Bill Gawlik in January 1972,and appears on all of the band's albums.In Greek mythology, "...the hook-and-cross symbol is that of Kronos (Cronus), the king of the Titans and father of Zeus...and is the alchemical symbol for lead (a heavy metal), one of the heaviest of metals.
Sandy Pearlman considered this, combined with the heavy and distorted guitar sound of the band and decided the description "heavy metal" would be aptly applied to Blue Öyster Cult's musical sound. In Roman mythology, the hook-and-cross symbol represents Saturn, the God of agriculture and fertility.
The logo's "...metaphysical, alchemical and mythological connotations, combined with its similarity to some religious symbols gave it a flair of decadence and mystery...".
Due to their unique sound and diversity, Blue Öyster Cult have been very influential to many modern bands that span many genres, and are often viewed as important pioneers of several different styles of rock music that came to prominence in the 1980s and 1990s. Many heavy metal bands have cited them as a major influence, and bands such as Metallica, HIM, and Iced Earth have covered their songs on studio recordings and during live performances.
Τheir first platinum album was Agents of Fortune (1976). It contained the hit single "(Don't Fear) The Reaper", which reached #12 on the Billboard charts.
It was written and sung by the band's lead guitarist, Donald "Buck Dharma" Roeser, produced by Sandy Pearlman, and is built around Dharma's guitar riff that opens the song and continues throughout.
The song's popularity also proved to be very long-lasting there, as of 2010 it has sold approximately 922,000 digital copies. It reached #16 on the UK pop chart in 1978.
Part of the song's appeal consists in its resonance with archetypal themes. The reaper is a reference to the Grim Reaper, a traditional personification of death in European folklore. Moreover, songs and poetry pairing "Death and the Maiden" date back to the time before the Middle Ages. Dharma says the song is about eternal love
The song has also been covered by many diverse artists, notably Evanescence, The Goo Goo Dolls, The Beautiful South, Wilco, Big Country, and deceased singer-songwriter Elliott Smith.
Wednesday, February 2, 2011
This day in music history
1959, Buddy Holly, Richard Valens and The Big Bopper all appeared at the Surf Ballroom, Clear Lake, Iowa. This was all three acts last ever gig before being killed in a plane crash the following day.
1962, The Beatles played their first professionally organised gig outside of Liverpool at The Oasis Club, Manchester. The group’s set started with their version of ‘Hippy Hippy Shake.’
1963, Cliff Richard and The Shadows started a 14-week run at No.1 on the UK album chart with 'Summer Holiday'.
1963, The Beatles played at the Gaumont Cinema, Bradford on the opening night of the nationwide Helen Shapiro UK tour. The Beatles were at the bottom of the six-act bill playing just four songs, ‘Please Please Me’, ‘Chains’, ‘Keep Your Hands Off My Baby’ and ‘A Taste of Honey.’
1966, The Rolling Stones released '19th Nervous Breakdown' it peaked at No.2 on the UK singles chart.
1974, Barbra Streisand started a four week run at No.1 on the US singles chart with the theme from the film 'The Way We Were'. The single won an Oscar and a Grammy for 'Song of the year.'
1974, The Carpenters started a four week run at No.1 on the UK album chart with 'The Singles 1969-73', featuring 12 hits and the US No.1 'Top Of The World' it went back to the top of the charts on three other occasions.
1979, Sex Pistols bassist Sid Vicious died of a heroin overdose in New York City. There had been a party to celebrate Vicious’ release on $50,000 (£29,412) bail pending his trial for the murder of his former girlfriend, Nancy Spungen, the previous October. Party guests, said that Vicious had taken heroin at midnight. An autopsy confirmed that Vicious died from an accumulation of fluid in the lungs that was consistent with heroin overdose. A syringe, spoon and heroin residue were discovered near the body.
1980, The Specials were at No.1 on the UK singles chart with 'The Special A.K.A. Live E.P'. The lead track 'Too Much Too Young' was the shortest song to reach No.1 on the UK singles chart in the 1980s at 2'04".
1985, Foreigner started a two-week run at No.1 on the US singles charts with 'I Want To Know What Love Is', also a UK No.1. London-born Mick Jones wrote the song and sang lead vocals with the British-American rock band.
1991, Sting scored his second UK No.1 album with 'The Soul Cages'.
2003, Russian girl duo Tatu started a four-week run at No.1 on the UK singles chart with 'All The Things She Said'. The song had been a hit on the Russian charts three years earlier. Tatu were the first Russian act to score a UK No 1.
2004, TV network CBS apologised for its broadcast of the American Super Bowl after Janet Jackson was left exposed when Justin Timberlake ripped her top. The pair had been performing a raunchy half-time duet when one of Jackson’s breasts was exposed as Timberlake pulled at her top. CBS quickly cut away from the scene but was still flooded with calls from angry viewers about the half-time entertainment, produced by MTV. Timberlake insisted it had been an accident saying "I am sorry that anyone was offended by the wardrobe malfunction during the half-time performance of the Super Bowl."
1942, Born on this day, Graham Nash, guitar, vocals, with The Hollies who he left in 1968. Member of Crosby Stills Nash & Young, (1969 UK No.17 single 'Marrakesh Express' and 1970 US No.1 album 'Deja Vu').
1963, Born on this day, Eva Cassidy, US singer. She is the only artist to score three posthumous UK No.1 albums: 2001’s 'Songbird'; 2002’s 'Imagine' and 2003’s 'American Tune'. In 2001 she also had a UK No.42 single with ‘Over The Rainbow’ and the 2007 UK No.1 single 'What a Wonderful World' with Katie Melua. Eva died of skin cancer on November 2nd 1996, aged 33.
1969, Born on this day, John Spence, singer, original member of No Doubt in the late 1980's. Committed suicide on December 21st 1987 by shooting himself.
1977, Born on this day, Shakira, (Shakira Isabel Mebarak Ripoll), singer, (2002 UK No.2 single 'Whenever Wherever', 2006 world-wide No.1 single 'Hips Don't Lie'). Highest selling Colombian artist of all time, having sold over forty million albums.
1962, The Beatles played their first professionally organised gig outside of Liverpool at The Oasis Club, Manchester. The group’s set started with their version of ‘Hippy Hippy Shake.’
1963, Cliff Richard and The Shadows started a 14-week run at No.1 on the UK album chart with 'Summer Holiday'.
1963, The Beatles played at the Gaumont Cinema, Bradford on the opening night of the nationwide Helen Shapiro UK tour. The Beatles were at the bottom of the six-act bill playing just four songs, ‘Please Please Me’, ‘Chains’, ‘Keep Your Hands Off My Baby’ and ‘A Taste of Honey.’
1966, The Rolling Stones released '19th Nervous Breakdown' it peaked at No.2 on the UK singles chart.
1974, Barbra Streisand started a four week run at No.1 on the US singles chart with the theme from the film 'The Way We Were'. The single won an Oscar and a Grammy for 'Song of the year.'
1974, The Carpenters started a four week run at No.1 on the UK album chart with 'The Singles 1969-73', featuring 12 hits and the US No.1 'Top Of The World' it went back to the top of the charts on three other occasions.
1979, Sex Pistols bassist Sid Vicious died of a heroin overdose in New York City. There had been a party to celebrate Vicious’ release on $50,000 (£29,412) bail pending his trial for the murder of his former girlfriend, Nancy Spungen, the previous October. Party guests, said that Vicious had taken heroin at midnight. An autopsy confirmed that Vicious died from an accumulation of fluid in the lungs that was consistent with heroin overdose. A syringe, spoon and heroin residue were discovered near the body.
1980, The Specials were at No.1 on the UK singles chart with 'The Special A.K.A. Live E.P'. The lead track 'Too Much Too Young' was the shortest song to reach No.1 on the UK singles chart in the 1980s at 2'04".
1985, Foreigner started a two-week run at No.1 on the US singles charts with 'I Want To Know What Love Is', also a UK No.1. London-born Mick Jones wrote the song and sang lead vocals with the British-American rock band.
1991, Sting scored his second UK No.1 album with 'The Soul Cages'.
2003, Russian girl duo Tatu started a four-week run at No.1 on the UK singles chart with 'All The Things She Said'. The song had been a hit on the Russian charts three years earlier. Tatu were the first Russian act to score a UK No 1.
2004, TV network CBS apologised for its broadcast of the American Super Bowl after Janet Jackson was left exposed when Justin Timberlake ripped her top. The pair had been performing a raunchy half-time duet when one of Jackson’s breasts was exposed as Timberlake pulled at her top. CBS quickly cut away from the scene but was still flooded with calls from angry viewers about the half-time entertainment, produced by MTV. Timberlake insisted it had been an accident saying "I am sorry that anyone was offended by the wardrobe malfunction during the half-time performance of the Super Bowl."
1942, Born on this day, Graham Nash, guitar, vocals, with The Hollies who he left in 1968. Member of Crosby Stills Nash & Young, (1969 UK No.17 single 'Marrakesh Express' and 1970 US No.1 album 'Deja Vu').
1963, Born on this day, Eva Cassidy, US singer. She is the only artist to score three posthumous UK No.1 albums: 2001’s 'Songbird'; 2002’s 'Imagine' and 2003’s 'American Tune'. In 2001 she also had a UK No.42 single with ‘Over The Rainbow’ and the 2007 UK No.1 single 'What a Wonderful World' with Katie Melua. Eva died of skin cancer on November 2nd 1996, aged 33.
1969, Born on this day, John Spence, singer, original member of No Doubt in the late 1980's. Committed suicide on December 21st 1987 by shooting himself.
1977, Born on this day, Shakira, (Shakira Isabel Mebarak Ripoll), singer, (2002 UK No.2 single 'Whenever Wherever', 2006 world-wide No.1 single 'Hips Don't Lie'). Highest selling Colombian artist of all time, having sold over forty million albums.
Aretha Franklin - Respect
Aretha Louise Franklin (born March 25, 1942) is an American singer, songwriter and pianist. Although known for her soul recordings and referred to as the The Queen of Soul, Franklin is adept at jazz, blues, R&B and gospel music.
Rolling Stone magazine ranked Franklin No. 1 on its list of The Greatest Singers of All Time.
Franklin is one of the most honored artists by the Grammy Awards, with 18 competitive Grammys to date, and two honorary Grammys. She has scored a total of 20 No. 1 singles on the Billboard R&B Singles Chart, one of which also became her first No. 1 hit on the Billboard Hot 100: "Respect" (1967). "I Knew You Were Waiting (For Me)" (1987), a duet with George Michael, became her second No. 1 on the latter chart.
Since 1961, she has scored a total of 45 "Top 40" hits on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. She also has the most million-selling singles of any female artist with 14. Between 1967 and 1982 she had 10 #1 R&B albums - more than any other female artist.
In 1987, Franklin became the first female artist to be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. She was the only featured singer at the 2009 presidential inauguration of Barack Obama.
"Respect" is a song written and originally released by Stax recording artist Otis Redding in 1965. "Respect" became a 1967 hit and signature song for Aretha.
While Redding wrote the song as a man's plea for respect and recognition from a woman, the roles were reversed for Franklin's version. Franklin's cover was a landmark for the feminist movement, and is often considered as one of the best songs of the R&B era, earning her two Grammy Awards in 1968 for "Best Rhythm & Blues Recording" and "Best Rhythm & Blues Solo Vocal Performance, Female", and was inducted in the Grammy Hall of Fame in 1998.
In 2002, the Library of Congress honored Franklin's version by adding it to the National Recording Registry.
It is number five on Rolling Stone's list of The 500 Greatest Songs of All Time. It was also included in the list of Songs of the Century, by the Recording Industry of America and the National Endowment for the Arts.
Rolling Stone magazine ranked Franklin No. 1 on its list of The Greatest Singers of All Time.
Franklin is one of the most honored artists by the Grammy Awards, with 18 competitive Grammys to date, and two honorary Grammys. She has scored a total of 20 No. 1 singles on the Billboard R&B Singles Chart, one of which also became her first No. 1 hit on the Billboard Hot 100: "Respect" (1967). "I Knew You Were Waiting (For Me)" (1987), a duet with George Michael, became her second No. 1 on the latter chart.
Since 1961, she has scored a total of 45 "Top 40" hits on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. She also has the most million-selling singles of any female artist with 14. Between 1967 and 1982 she had 10 #1 R&B albums - more than any other female artist.
In 1987, Franklin became the first female artist to be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. She was the only featured singer at the 2009 presidential inauguration of Barack Obama.
"Respect" is a song written and originally released by Stax recording artist Otis Redding in 1965. "Respect" became a 1967 hit and signature song for Aretha.
While Redding wrote the song as a man's plea for respect and recognition from a woman, the roles were reversed for Franklin's version. Franklin's cover was a landmark for the feminist movement, and is often considered as one of the best songs of the R&B era, earning her two Grammy Awards in 1968 for "Best Rhythm & Blues Recording" and "Best Rhythm & Blues Solo Vocal Performance, Female", and was inducted in the Grammy Hall of Fame in 1998.
In 2002, the Library of Congress honored Franklin's version by adding it to the National Recording Registry.
It is number five on Rolling Stone's list of The 500 Greatest Songs of All Time. It was also included in the list of Songs of the Century, by the Recording Industry of America and the National Endowment for the Arts.
Cream - Sunshine of Your Love
Cream were a 1960s British blues-rock band and supergroup consisting of bassist/vocalist Jack Bruce, guitarist/vocalist Eric Clapton, and drummer Ginger Baker. Their sound was characterised by a hybrid of blues rock, hard rock and psychedelic rock, combining Eric Clapton's blues guitar playing, the psychedelia-themed lyrics, voice and blues bass playing of Jack Bruce and the jazz-influenced drumming of Ginger Baker.
The group's third album, Wheels of Fire, was the world's first platinum-selling double album.
Cream is widely regarded as being the world's first notable and successful supergroup. In over two years, they sold over 35 million albums.
Cream made a significant impact upon the popular music of the time, and they provided a heavy yet technically proficient musical theme that foreshadowed and influenced the emergence of British bands such as Led Zeppelin, Deep Purple, and The Jeff Beck Group in the late 1960s.
Rolling Stone named them the sixty-sixth greatest artist of all time.
"Sunshine of Your Love" was originally released on the album Disraeli Gears in November 1967,and was later released as a single in January 1968. It was Cream's only gold-selling single in the United States. It features a distinctive guitar/bass guitar riff and an acclaimed guitar solo from Eric Clapton. It was written by bassist Jack Bruce, lyricist Pete Brown, and Clapton.
In 2004, the song was ranked #65 on Rolling Stone magazine's list of The 500 Greatest Songs of All Time. The song is also a part of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame's 500 Songs That Shaped Rock and Roll List.
In March 2005, Q magazine placed "Sunshine of Your Love" at number 19 in its list of the 100 Greatest Guitar Tracks.
In 2009 it was named the 44th best hard rock song of all time by VH1.
The song is also a part of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame's 500 Songs That Shaped Rock and Roll list.
The group's third album, Wheels of Fire, was the world's first platinum-selling double album.
Cream is widely regarded as being the world's first notable and successful supergroup. In over two years, they sold over 35 million albums.
Cream made a significant impact upon the popular music of the time, and they provided a heavy yet technically proficient musical theme that foreshadowed and influenced the emergence of British bands such as Led Zeppelin, Deep Purple, and The Jeff Beck Group in the late 1960s.
Rolling Stone named them the sixty-sixth greatest artist of all time.
"Sunshine of Your Love" was originally released on the album Disraeli Gears in November 1967,and was later released as a single in January 1968. It was Cream's only gold-selling single in the United States. It features a distinctive guitar/bass guitar riff and an acclaimed guitar solo from Eric Clapton. It was written by bassist Jack Bruce, lyricist Pete Brown, and Clapton.
In 2004, the song was ranked #65 on Rolling Stone magazine's list of The 500 Greatest Songs of All Time. The song is also a part of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame's 500 Songs That Shaped Rock and Roll List.
In March 2005, Q magazine placed "Sunshine of Your Love" at number 19 in its list of the 100 Greatest Guitar Tracks.
In 2009 it was named the 44th best hard rock song of all time by VH1.
The song is also a part of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame's 500 Songs That Shaped Rock and Roll list.
Deep Purple - Hush
Deep Purple are an English rock band formed in Hertford in 1968. Along with Led Zeppelin and Black Sabbath, they are considered to be among the pioneers of heavy metal and modern hard rock, although some band members believe that their music cannot be categorised as belonging to any one genre.
The band incorporated classical music, blues-rock, pop and progressive rock elements.
Deep Purple survived a seemingly endless series of lineup changes and a dramatic mid-career shift from grandiose progressive rock to ear-shattering heavy metal to emerge as a true institution of the British hard rock community; once credited in the Guinness Book of World Records as the globe's loudest band, their revolving-door roster launched the careers of performers including Ritchie Blackmore, David Coverdale, and Ian Gillan.
The band has gone through many line-up changes and an eight-year hiatus (1976–84).
Their second and most commercially successful line-up featured Ian Gillan (vocals), Jon Lord (keyboards), Roger Glover (bass), Ian Paice (drums) and Ritchie Blackmore (guitar).
This line-up was active from 1969 to 1973 and was revived from 1984 to 1989 and again in 1993, before the rift between Blackmore and other members became unbridgeable.
Their debut LP was Shades of Deep Purple. The most pop-oriented release of their career, the album generated in October 1968 a Top Five American hit with its reading of Joe South's "Hush" but otherwise went unnoticed at home.
That period Deep Purple were also booked to support Cream on their Goodbye tour.
To be continued...
The band incorporated classical music, blues-rock, pop and progressive rock elements.
Deep Purple survived a seemingly endless series of lineup changes and a dramatic mid-career shift from grandiose progressive rock to ear-shattering heavy metal to emerge as a true institution of the British hard rock community; once credited in the Guinness Book of World Records as the globe's loudest band, their revolving-door roster launched the careers of performers including Ritchie Blackmore, David Coverdale, and Ian Gillan.
The band has gone through many line-up changes and an eight-year hiatus (1976–84).
Their second and most commercially successful line-up featured Ian Gillan (vocals), Jon Lord (keyboards), Roger Glover (bass), Ian Paice (drums) and Ritchie Blackmore (guitar).
This line-up was active from 1969 to 1973 and was revived from 1984 to 1989 and again in 1993, before the rift between Blackmore and other members became unbridgeable.
Their debut LP was Shades of Deep Purple. The most pop-oriented release of their career, the album generated in October 1968 a Top Five American hit with its reading of Joe South's "Hush" but otherwise went unnoticed at home.
That period Deep Purple were also booked to support Cream on their Goodbye tour.
To be continued...
Tuesday, February 1, 2011
Sarah Vaughan - Live In Sweden
Sarah Lois Vaughan (March 27, 1924 – April 3, 1990) was an American jazz singer, described as having "one of the most wondrous voices of the 20th century".
Sarah Vaughan was a natural talent whose extraordinary vocal range, which she navigated fluidly, allowed her to reach operatic highs and rich lows. She earned the nickname of “Divine One” for her superb musicianship and was known as “Sassy” to friends.
Although Vaughan is usually considered a "Jazz Singer", she avoided classifying herself as such. Indeed, her approach to her "Jazz" work and her commercial "Pop" material was not radically different.
Vaughan stuck throughout her career to the jazz-infused style of music that she came of age with, only rarely dabbling in rock-era styles that usually did not suit her unique vocal talents.
Vaughan discussed the label in an 1982 interview : "I don't know why people call me a jazz singer, though I guess people associate me with jazz because I was raised in it, from way back. I'm not putting jazz down, but I'm not a jazz singer...What I want to do, music-wise, is all kinds of music that I like, and I like all kinds of music."
In 1982 she won a Grammy for Gershwin Live! and was honored with a Lifetime Achievement Grammy in 1989.
The video includes four songs from "Live In Sweden" on Swedish TV,1958.
"September In The Rain" by Harry Warren and Al Dubin, 1937
"Lover Man" by Jimmy Davis, Roger ("Ram") Ramirez, and James Sherman, 1941
"Mean To Me" by Fred E. Ahlert & Roy Turk
"Tenderly" by Walter Gross, Jack Lawrence, 1946
Sarah Vaughan was a natural talent whose extraordinary vocal range, which she navigated fluidly, allowed her to reach operatic highs and rich lows. She earned the nickname of “Divine One” for her superb musicianship and was known as “Sassy” to friends.
Although Vaughan is usually considered a "Jazz Singer", she avoided classifying herself as such. Indeed, her approach to her "Jazz" work and her commercial "Pop" material was not radically different.
Vaughan stuck throughout her career to the jazz-infused style of music that she came of age with, only rarely dabbling in rock-era styles that usually did not suit her unique vocal talents.
Vaughan discussed the label in an 1982 interview : "I don't know why people call me a jazz singer, though I guess people associate me with jazz because I was raised in it, from way back. I'm not putting jazz down, but I'm not a jazz singer...What I want to do, music-wise, is all kinds of music that I like, and I like all kinds of music."
In 1982 she won a Grammy for Gershwin Live! and was honored with a Lifetime Achievement Grammy in 1989.
The video includes four songs from "Live In Sweden" on Swedish TV,1958.
"September In The Rain" by Harry Warren and Al Dubin, 1937
"Lover Man" by Jimmy Davis, Roger ("Ram") Ramirez, and James Sherman, 1941
"Mean To Me" by Fred E. Ahlert & Roy Turk
"Tenderly" by Walter Gross, Jack Lawrence, 1946
Screamin' Jay Hawkins - I Put a Spell on You
Jalacy Hawkins (July 18, 1929— February 12, 2000), best known as Screamin' Jay Hawkins was an African-American musician, singer, and actor.
Known mostly for his wildly theatrical performances of songs , Hawkins sometimes used macabre props onstage, making him the one of few original shock rockers.
Although Hawkins was not a major success as a recording artist, his powerful, operatic vocal delivery and his highly theatrical performances earned him a steady career as a live performer for decades afterward, and influenced rock groups such as The Cramps, Screaming Lord Sutch, Black Sabbath, Arthur Brown, Dread Zeppelin, The Horrors, Marilyn Manson and Alice Cooper.
Hawkins died on February 12, 2000 after surgery to treat an aneurysm. He left behind many children by many women; an estimated 55 at the time of his death, and upon investigation, that number "soon became perhaps 75 offspring".
His most successful recording, "I Put a Spell on You" (1956), was selected as one of The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame's 500 Songs that Shaped Rock and Roll.
It was also ranked #313 on the Rolling Stone magazine's list of The 500 Greatest Songs of All Time.
Hawkins originally envisioned the tune as a refined ballad.The entire band was intoxicated during a recording session where Hawkins screamed, grunted, and gurgled his way through the tune. The resulting performance was no ballad but instead a "raw, guttural track",Hawkins himself blacked out and was unable to remember the session.
Afterward he had to relearn the song from the recorded version.
Soon after the release of "I Put a Spell on You", radio disc jockey Alan Freed offered Hawkins $300 to emerge from a coffin onstage.Hawkins accepted and soon created an outlandish stage persona in which performances began with the coffin and included "gold and leopard skin costumes and notable voodoo stage props, such as his smoking skull on a stick – named Henry – and rubber snakes."
These props were suggestive of voodoo, but also presented with comic overtones that invited comparison to "a black Vincent Price."
The song became his greatest commercial success and reportedly surpassed a million copies in sales, although it failed to make the Billboard pop or R&B charts since it was banned by some stores and radio stations.
Although Hawkins' version did not make any charts, several later cover versions have done so, Such as Nina Simone's in 1965, Creedence Clearwater Revival's in 1968, Bryan Ferry's in 1993.
Known mostly for his wildly theatrical performances of songs , Hawkins sometimes used macabre props onstage, making him the one of few original shock rockers.
Although Hawkins was not a major success as a recording artist, his powerful, operatic vocal delivery and his highly theatrical performances earned him a steady career as a live performer for decades afterward, and influenced rock groups such as The Cramps, Screaming Lord Sutch, Black Sabbath, Arthur Brown, Dread Zeppelin, The Horrors, Marilyn Manson and Alice Cooper.
Hawkins died on February 12, 2000 after surgery to treat an aneurysm. He left behind many children by many women; an estimated 55 at the time of his death, and upon investigation, that number "soon became perhaps 75 offspring".
His most successful recording, "I Put a Spell on You" (1956), was selected as one of The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame's 500 Songs that Shaped Rock and Roll.
It was also ranked #313 on the Rolling Stone magazine's list of The 500 Greatest Songs of All Time.
Hawkins originally envisioned the tune as a refined ballad.The entire band was intoxicated during a recording session where Hawkins screamed, grunted, and gurgled his way through the tune. The resulting performance was no ballad but instead a "raw, guttural track",Hawkins himself blacked out and was unable to remember the session.
Afterward he had to relearn the song from the recorded version.
Soon after the release of "I Put a Spell on You", radio disc jockey Alan Freed offered Hawkins $300 to emerge from a coffin onstage.Hawkins accepted and soon created an outlandish stage persona in which performances began with the coffin and included "gold and leopard skin costumes and notable voodoo stage props, such as his smoking skull on a stick – named Henry – and rubber snakes."
These props were suggestive of voodoo, but also presented with comic overtones that invited comparison to "a black Vincent Price."
The song became his greatest commercial success and reportedly surpassed a million copies in sales, although it failed to make the Billboard pop or R&B charts since it was banned by some stores and radio stations.
Although Hawkins' version did not make any charts, several later cover versions have done so, Such as Nina Simone's in 1965, Creedence Clearwater Revival's in 1968, Bryan Ferry's in 1993.
John Coltrane - Blue Train
John William Coltrane,also known as "Trane", (September 23, 1926 – July 17, 1967) was an American jazz saxophonist and composer. Working in the bebop and hard bop idioms early in his career, Coltrane helped pioneer the use of modes in jazz and later was at the forefront of free jazz.
An important moment in the progression of Coltrane's musical development occurred on June 5, 1945, when he saw Charlie Parker perform for the first time. In a DownBeat article in 1960 he recalled: "the first time I heard Bird play, it hit me right between the eyes.Parker became an early idol, and they played together on occasion in the late 1940s.
He organized at least fifty recording sessions as a leader during his recording career, and appeared as a sideman on many other albums, notably with trumpeter Miles Davis and pianist Thelonious Monk.
As his career progressed, Coltrane and his music took on an increasingly spiritual dimension. He received many posthumous awards and recognition, including a beatification by the African Orthodox Church as Saint John William Coltrane.
In 2007, Coltrane was awarded the Pulitzer Prize Special Citation for his "masterful improvisation, supreme musicianship and iconic centrality to the history of jazz."
Coltrane influenced innumerable musicians, and remains one of the most significant tenor saxophonists in jazz history.
Blue Train, Coltrane's sole date as leader for Blue Note in 1957, featuring trumpeter Lee Morgan, bassist Paul Chambers, and trombonist Curtis Fuller and Kenny Drew at piano is often considered his best album from this period.
Four of its five tracks are original Coltrane compositions, and the haunting theme of title track, "Moment's Notice," and "Lazy Bird", have become standards.
It is a record that captures the essence of cool and exudes style and grace so effortlessly, the music almost seems to float on air.
An important moment in the progression of Coltrane's musical development occurred on June 5, 1945, when he saw Charlie Parker perform for the first time. In a DownBeat article in 1960 he recalled: "the first time I heard Bird play, it hit me right between the eyes.Parker became an early idol, and they played together on occasion in the late 1940s.
He organized at least fifty recording sessions as a leader during his recording career, and appeared as a sideman on many other albums, notably with trumpeter Miles Davis and pianist Thelonious Monk.
As his career progressed, Coltrane and his music took on an increasingly spiritual dimension. He received many posthumous awards and recognition, including a beatification by the African Orthodox Church as Saint John William Coltrane.
In 2007, Coltrane was awarded the Pulitzer Prize Special Citation for his "masterful improvisation, supreme musicianship and iconic centrality to the history of jazz."
Coltrane influenced innumerable musicians, and remains one of the most significant tenor saxophonists in jazz history.
Blue Train, Coltrane's sole date as leader for Blue Note in 1957, featuring trumpeter Lee Morgan, bassist Paul Chambers, and trombonist Curtis Fuller and Kenny Drew at piano is often considered his best album from this period.
Four of its five tracks are original Coltrane compositions, and the haunting theme of title track, "Moment's Notice," and "Lazy Bird", have become standards.
It is a record that captures the essence of cool and exudes style and grace so effortlessly, the music almost seems to float on air.
This day in music history
1949, RCA Records issued the first ever 45rpm single, the invention of this size record made jukeboxes possible.
1963, 17 year-old Neil Young performed his first professional date at a country club in Winnipeg.
1964, The Beatles started a seven week run at No.1 on the US singles chart with 'I Want To Hold Your Hand', the first US No.1 by a UK act since The Tornadoes 'Telstar' in 1962 and the first of three consecutive No.1's from the group.
1972, Chuck Berry had his first UK No.1 single with a live recording of a song he'd been playing live for over 20 years 'My Ding-a-Ling'.
1975, Neil Sedaka had his second US No.1 single with 'Laughter In The Rain', over 12 years after his last chart topper 'Breaking Up Is Hard To Do'.
1988, The Cars announced they were breaking up after 12 years of working together.
1992, George Michael and Elton John went to No.1 on the US singles chart with 'Don't Let The Sun Go Down On Me', also a No.1 in the UK. All proceeds from the single went to Aids charities.
1995, Richey James guitarist with the Manic Street Preachers vanished leaving no clues to his whereabouts. He left The Embassy Hotel in London at 7am, leaving behind his packed suitcase. His car was found on the Severn Bridge outside Bristol, England sixteen days later. Edwards has never been found, despite constant searching, and in November 2008 he was declared officially dead.
1997, Blur went to No.1 on the UK singles chart with 'Beetlebum'. The song's title, is said to be a stab at Liam Gallagher, lead singer of Oasis, for his over-idolisation of The Beatles.
1997, The original soundtrack from the film 'Evita' went to No.1 on the UK album chart.
2002, Black Rebel Motorcycle Club made their UK live debut when they appeared at Liverpool University.
2005, Elvis Presley was at No.1 on the UK singles chart with 'It's Now Or Never', the singers 21st No.1, first released in 1960.
2008, US space agency Nasa announced that ‘Across the Universe’ by the Beatles was to become the first song ever to be beamed directly into space. The track would be transmitted through the Deep Space Network - a network of antennas - on the 40th anniversary of the song being recorded, being aimed at the North Star, Polaris, 431 light-years from Earth. In a message to Nasa, Sir Paul McCartney said the project was an "amazing" feat. "Well done, Nasa," he added. "Send my love to the aliens. All the best, Paul."
2009, Bruce Springsteen started a two week run at No.1 on the UK album chart with ‘Working on a Dream’ his 16th studio album.
1937, Born on this day, Don Everly, guitar, vocals, The Everly Brothers, (1958 UK & US No.1 single 'All I Have To Do Is Dream' plus over 25 other UK hit singles).
1947, Born on this day, Normie Rowe, singer, biggest solo star of Australian pop in the Sixties, (1965, Australian No.1 single ‘Que Sera Sera’ spent 11 weeks at No.1).
1948, Born on this day, Rick James, US singer, (1980 UK No.41 single 'Big Time'. 1981 US No.3 album 'Street Songs', 1981 US No 16 single 'Super Freak part 1'). Found dead at his Los Angeles home on 6th August 2004.
1968, Born on this day, Lisa Marie Presley, daughter of Elvis. Married Michael Jackson in 1994, separated on 10th December 1995. Had the UK No.16 single 'Lights Out'.
1969, Born on this day, Patrick Wilson, Weezer, (1995 UK No.12 single, 'Buddy Holly').
1971, Born on this day, Ron Welty, drums, The Offspring, (1999 UK No.1 & US No. 59 single 'Pretty Fly, (For A White Guy)', 1999 US No.6 & UK No.10 album 'Americana').
1975, Born on this day, Big Boi, (Antoine Patton), Outkast, US rapper, (2001 US No.1 & UK No.2 single 'Ms Jackson'. 2004 US No.1 single 'Hey Ya').
1963, 17 year-old Neil Young performed his first professional date at a country club in Winnipeg.
1964, The Beatles started a seven week run at No.1 on the US singles chart with 'I Want To Hold Your Hand', the first US No.1 by a UK act since The Tornadoes 'Telstar' in 1962 and the first of three consecutive No.1's from the group.
1972, Chuck Berry had his first UK No.1 single with a live recording of a song he'd been playing live for over 20 years 'My Ding-a-Ling'.
1975, Neil Sedaka had his second US No.1 single with 'Laughter In The Rain', over 12 years after his last chart topper 'Breaking Up Is Hard To Do'.
1988, The Cars announced they were breaking up after 12 years of working together.
1992, George Michael and Elton John went to No.1 on the US singles chart with 'Don't Let The Sun Go Down On Me', also a No.1 in the UK. All proceeds from the single went to Aids charities.
1995, Richey James guitarist with the Manic Street Preachers vanished leaving no clues to his whereabouts. He left The Embassy Hotel in London at 7am, leaving behind his packed suitcase. His car was found on the Severn Bridge outside Bristol, England sixteen days later. Edwards has never been found, despite constant searching, and in November 2008 he was declared officially dead.
1997, Blur went to No.1 on the UK singles chart with 'Beetlebum'. The song's title, is said to be a stab at Liam Gallagher, lead singer of Oasis, for his over-idolisation of The Beatles.
1997, The original soundtrack from the film 'Evita' went to No.1 on the UK album chart.
2002, Black Rebel Motorcycle Club made their UK live debut when they appeared at Liverpool University.
2005, Elvis Presley was at No.1 on the UK singles chart with 'It's Now Or Never', the singers 21st No.1, first released in 1960.
2008, US space agency Nasa announced that ‘Across the Universe’ by the Beatles was to become the first song ever to be beamed directly into space. The track would be transmitted through the Deep Space Network - a network of antennas - on the 40th anniversary of the song being recorded, being aimed at the North Star, Polaris, 431 light-years from Earth. In a message to Nasa, Sir Paul McCartney said the project was an "amazing" feat. "Well done, Nasa," he added. "Send my love to the aliens. All the best, Paul."
2009, Bruce Springsteen started a two week run at No.1 on the UK album chart with ‘Working on a Dream’ his 16th studio album.
1937, Born on this day, Don Everly, guitar, vocals, The Everly Brothers, (1958 UK & US No.1 single 'All I Have To Do Is Dream' plus over 25 other UK hit singles).
1947, Born on this day, Normie Rowe, singer, biggest solo star of Australian pop in the Sixties, (1965, Australian No.1 single ‘Que Sera Sera’ spent 11 weeks at No.1).
1948, Born on this day, Rick James, US singer, (1980 UK No.41 single 'Big Time'. 1981 US No.3 album 'Street Songs', 1981 US No 16 single 'Super Freak part 1'). Found dead at his Los Angeles home on 6th August 2004.
1968, Born on this day, Lisa Marie Presley, daughter of Elvis. Married Michael Jackson in 1994, separated on 10th December 1995. Had the UK No.16 single 'Lights Out'.
1969, Born on this day, Patrick Wilson, Weezer, (1995 UK No.12 single, 'Buddy Holly').
1971, Born on this day, Ron Welty, drums, The Offspring, (1999 UK No.1 & US No. 59 single 'Pretty Fly, (For A White Guy)', 1999 US No.6 & UK No.10 album 'Americana').
1975, Born on this day, Big Boi, (Antoine Patton), Outkast, US rapper, (2001 US No.1 & UK No.2 single 'Ms Jackson'. 2004 US No.1 single 'Hey Ya').
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