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
Tag: Video
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
Carl Smith Was Known As ‘Mr. Country’
Although I wrote about Carl Smith just a few months ago, it seems appropriate to repost that piece (see below) because the legendary country music star died recently, at his home near Nashville. I also thought I'd offer up another song -- one of his best early hits, 1955's "There She Goes." It's one that … Continue reading Carl Smith Was Known As ‘Mr. Country’
Early Phil Spector Project – Curtis Lee
I thought I'd cash a mental check I wrote to myself a while back, when I told the story of early pop star Ray Peterson ("Tell Laura I Love Her"). At that time I mentioned that Ray eventually moved into producing, working with the then-young (and presumably trouble-free) Phil Spector to promote other performers. One … Continue reading Early Phil Spector Project – Curtis Lee
The Kitty Who Became A Songbird – Kitty Kallen
A while back I was listening to a song on an outstanding blog, Days Of Transition, and it got me to thinking -- always a perilous undertaking, but one that I keep attempting in spite of the danger. Anyhow, the song -- "We'll Meet Again," performed by British songbird Vera Lynn -- was so perfectly … Continue reading The Kitty Who Became A Songbird – Kitty Kallen
Rex Allen – Best Of The Singing Cowboys?
Rex Allen the best singing cowboy? It's certainly a startling thought, especially when you figure that most people would vote for Gene Autry or Roy Rogers. But here's the thing -- Autry himself called Allen the best cowboy among them, and Rogers said he was the best singer by far. So if you add up … Continue reading Rex Allen – Best Of The Singing Cowboys?
Country Songbird Billie Jo Spears
A country songbird I've always enjoyed listening to is Billie Jo Spears, who has had a long career specializing in a blend of honky-tonk and pure country blues. Although she's probably best known for her 1975 chart-topping hit "Blanket on the Ground," she's had several decades of solid success -- albeit with a few snags … Continue reading Country Songbird Billie Jo Spears
Geezer Music Club 