Not every country music performer hails from the rural heartland. Joe Val spent many years as one of the most respected country artists around, and he was an Italian/American (real name: Joseph Valiante) who was born and raised in the Boston area. But New England has always had a strong tradition in country music, including … Continue reading Joe Val – The Voice Of New England Bluegrass
Tag: country music
Whitewall Tires Have Lost Their Coolness
So I was parked in a supermarket lot today waiting for Mrs. Big Geez to do her grocery shopping thing, an activity for which -- imagine this -- she doesn't want my assistance, when I spotted a geezer in a big car sporting whitewall tires. (The car, not the geezer.) They were the narrow kind, … Continue reading Whitewall Tires Have Lost Their Coolness
I Don’t Miss Smoking, But. . .
I quit smoking over thirty years ago, and even though the urge hung around for a surprisingly long time I eventually got to the point where I didn't miss it. And I can confidently say that I still don't, but I realized something the other day -- I kind of miss the gadgety aspect of … Continue reading I Don’t Miss Smoking, But. . .
Appreciating Gospel Music For Its Own Sake
Although I believe that a person's spiritual beliefs are a private thing, I will confess that I'm not a regular church-goer -- in fact, the last time I attempted to sing a hymn my voice probably hadn't yet changed. But I've found that there are certain kinds of gospel music that really appeal to me, … Continue reading Appreciating Gospel Music For Its Own Sake
Remembering Billie Jo Spears
I was sorry to read that Billie Jo Spears died earlier this week at her home in Texas. She was a country music star for many years and was featured here in a piece two years ago. I've reposted it below, along with a different song. ------------------------- Country Songbird Billie Jo Spears (Reposted from Jan … Continue reading Remembering Billie Jo Spears
Johnny Cash’s Surprising OOPS
Although he died in 2003, Johnny Cash is still a favorite for those of us who have always enjoyed his music while also finding his erratic path through life a little fascinating. But even though Cash was known to have gone through a few rough patches along the way, his fans might be surprised to … Continue reading Johnny Cash’s Surprising OOPS
The Musical Journey Of Marvin Rainwater
Now in his eighties and still entertaining fans, Marvin Rainwater can look back on a long career that has included everything from rockabilly to pop music, and a persona that often took 100% advantage of the fact that he is 25% Cherokee. Although he is probably most remembered now for his 1957 country-pop hit, "Gonna … Continue reading The Musical Journey Of Marvin Rainwater
It’s Never Too Late For A Hobby
HOBBY - [hob-ee] : an activity or interest pursued for pleasure or relaxation and not as a main occupation. I think we all know people who have had a tough time adjusting to retirement, and it seems to me that a lot of them have one thing in common. In their working life they seldom … Continue reading It’s Never Too Late For A Hobby
The Velvet Guitar Of Hank Garland
Most of the talented guitarists who have populated country music through the years have been perfectly happy to stay within their comfort zone. But the best of them have occasionally stretched themselves musically, and that would be the case with Hank Garland, the legendary composer of "Sugarfoot Rag", who surprised many fans with his detour … Continue reading The Velvet Guitar Of Hank Garland
Facing Up To A Phobia
We all have things that creep us out. You know what I mean. They might make you shudder, or in some cases even cause you to gag and turn your head away. In fact, most people probably have several different things that affect them that way. I decided that facing up to one of my … Continue reading Facing Up To A Phobia
Geezer Music Club 