You ever have one of those days when you just feel too lazy to do much of anything? The slows have definitely hit me today, so music that connects to my mood seems to be inevitable. I'm thinking lush instrumental, something that just allows a person to kick back and relax. Perfect conditions for the … Continue reading Not Much Goin’ On
Tag: Music History
Have Guitar, Will Travel – Johnny Western
Lately I've been watching some of the original episodes of the classic TV Western, Have Gun - Will Travel. It was one of the most popular shows around in the late Fifties, although it had plenty of competition because Westerns were all over the dial at that time. But most shows didn't even approach the … Continue reading Have Guitar, Will Travel – Johnny Western
Driving The Who To Stardom
Watching The Who entertain at the Super Bowl might have caused a few people to remember another British group, an oddly-named bunch that had a connection -- sort of -- to the legendary rockers. The band's name was Thunderclap Newman and it was assembled to give an opportunity to John 'Speedy' Keen, who actually did … Continue reading Driving The Who To Stardom
Music And The Highwayman
Sometimes it doesn't take much to entertain me. Lately I've found myself watching a TV reality series called Pawn Stars -- and for those who aren't familiar with the show let me just say that it's better than it sounds. It is truly amazing to see some of the odd objects that people bring in … Continue reading Music And The Highwayman
Johnny Burnette Mirrored Elvis
It's tempting to wonder what would have become of Johnny Burnette if he hadn't gone fishing that night in 1964. After all, by the time that speedboat came along, he was at a point in his career where he'd managed to pull off the transition from raw rockabilly singer to genuine teen idol, hitting the … Continue reading Johnny Burnette Mirrored Elvis
Groundhog Day And Dad’s Polkas
This time of year it's impossible to miss all the news stories about Groundhog Day, speculating about whether Punxsutawney Phil (the resident rodent) will see his shadow and what comes next. Most also mention the 1993 Bill Murray movie, Groundhog Day, but when I see anything that spotlights one of the most memorable songs on … Continue reading Groundhog Day And Dad’s Polkas
Dem Bones Are Still Hangin’ Around
The title of a news article from the Indonesian island of Bali triggered my musical memories recently. The story is all about how the efforts of bone smugglers have been foiled for the second time in as many weeks. It seems that there is a lot of money to be made on ancient artifacts -- … Continue reading Dem Bones Are Still Hangin’ Around
Doin’ The Yam With Fred Astaire
'Can't Sing, Can't Act. Balding. Can Dance a Little.' You might recognize that as the oft-quoted evaluation from an early talent scout, giving his opinion about the then-young performer Fred Astaire. The punch line, of course, is that he became one of the biggest stars of all time; and while his career was certainly anchored … Continue reading Doin’ The Yam With Fred Astaire
Glenn Yarbrough – Still In Strong Voice
Glenn Robertson Yarbrough (January 12, 1930 – August 11, 2016) I've always enjoyed writing about musical artists who have managed long, successful careers that have continued even into their 'senior' years. A good example is Glenn Yarbrough, who has had many years of success, both as a member of the Limeliters and as a solo … Continue reading Glenn Yarbrough – Still In Strong Voice
Charlie Byrd’s Inspiration Led The Way
I've been a fan of Latin jazz for many years. I can remember as a child hearing Pérez Prado or Xavier Cugat records (or later watching Desi Arnaz perform "Babalu" on TV) so the stage was set early. But I'd guess that the strongest influence on me was what occurred in the Sixties -- the … Continue reading Charlie Byrd’s Inspiration Led The Way
Geezer Music Club 