Although I understand that the critters in the pictures below aren't really responsible for the messages, there's not much doubt that many animals do communicate. I'm reminded of the squirrels that sometimes cavort around when I'm taking a walk in a nearby parkland. (Actually it's a park-like cemetery, but I thought that might sound creepy … Continue reading Messages From Animals
Tag: Oldies
The Lion Sleeps More Than Once
I guess most of us probably remember the Tokens' big hit song from 1962, "The Lion Sleeps Tonight," but what you might not remember is that it wasn't the last time this particular lion made an appearance on the charts. It was also a Top Ten hit a number of years later for singer Robert … Continue reading The Lion Sleeps More Than Once
Van McCoy — Disco And More
Dig out your white three-piece suit and get ready to hit the dance floor -- it's disco time! But in spite of the image that might have popped into your head, I'm not going to write about John Travolta or the Bee Gees. Instead, I thought I'd feature another performer from the era, and his … Continue reading Van McCoy — Disco And More
Gwyneth Tackles The Country Side
Something a little different today. I don't often write about current performers, but one who fascinates me is the Oscar-winning actress Gwyneth Paltrow, who -- after receiving beauty and acting talent in the genetic lottery -- apparently got back in line and picked up a good portion of singing ability too. I first noticed her … Continue reading Gwyneth Tackles The Country Side
Keeping Up With The Tymes
Sorry about the title of this piece, but I couldn't resist. For those who might have forgotten, the Philly-based R&B group known as the Tymes made a big splash in the early 1960s, hitting the top of the charts with "So Much In Love." Original members Donald Banks, Albert Berry, Norman Burnett, and George Hilliard … Continue reading Keeping Up With The Tymes
The Two Careers Of Len Barry
A relatively common occurrence in early rock and roll --and in most other types of music too, for that matter -- is when a key member of a successful musical group breaks off and goes solo. It sometimes proves to be a bad idea, but in many cases the newly-minted soloist does find some success, … Continue reading The Two Careers Of Len Barry
Jimmy Ruffin’s Turning Point
A familiar name in the history of R&B music is that of the Temptations, a singing group with many years of success and countless adoring fans. But what you might not know is the story of Jimmy Ruffin, who turned down a chance to sing in the group and instead recommended his little brother, but … Continue reading Jimmy Ruffin’s Turning Point
Workin’ Hard – The Delta Rhythm Boys
To paraphrase one of James Brown's best-known descriptions, you could make a good case that the Delta Rhythm Boys were 'the hardest working close-rhythm singing group in show business'. Of course, there have been many combos that could make the same claim, but it would be difficult to top the longevity, versatility, and wide range … Continue reading Workin’ Hard – The Delta Rhythm Boys
The Tragedy Of Little Willie John
Tragic stories have always been a part of music history, and have played out in almost as many varieties as there are performers who've lived them. But one of the most most poignant types of tragedies is when a performer throws away his opportunity, and that would be the case with R&B pioneer Little Willie … Continue reading The Tragedy Of Little Willie John
Hitting The Target With Pure Prairie League
Album covers have always been a tried and true way to attract the attention of potential buyers, so it's not surprising that a lot of attention is paid to designing and composing them. The right kind of cover can really hit the target with potential buyers, and if it's successful enough it might even spawn … Continue reading Hitting The Target With Pure Prairie League
Geezer Music Club 