Saturday, March 10, 2012

Sound Advice

Here's a special "Prime Time Edition" of our daily SOUND ADVICE feature ...
Be sure to check the bottom of the website every week day for our FORGOTTEN HITS Radio Programming Suggestions ... 
GREAT songs that radio seems to have forgotten all about.
(In fact, in addition to today's special Saturday SOUND ADVICE Edition, we'll have a SUNDAY Edition, too!  And, we've left all of last week's suggestions posted so that those of you who don't regularly check out this feature can see what it's all about.)
Again, just scroll down to the bottom of the page and look for the SOUND ADVICE selection ...
And then check back Monday - Friday for brand new postings!

*****


Saturday, March 10th:

On this date in 1970, GRAND FUNK RAILROAD recorded their classic,
CLOSER TO HOME. It eventually became their first Top 40 Pop Hit.



Listening to oldies and classic rock radio today, you'd think that GRAND FUNK RAILROAD didn't exist before WE'RE AN AMERICAN BAND (#1, 1973); THE LOCO-MOTION (#1, 1974) and SOME KIND OF WONDERFUL (#3, 1975) ... but nothing could be further from the truth!  

Between 1969 and 1972, GFR were one of the biggest-selling bands on the planet ... a hard-rock hit-making machine! (They just weren't crossing over the the singles chart very often!) 

Classic Rock Albums like ON TIME, GRAND FUNK, CLOSER TO HOME, LIVE, SURVIVAL, E PLURIBUS FUNK, MARK, DON AND MEL, 1969 - 1971 and PHOENIX sold MILLIONS and MILLIONS of copies before many feel the band sold out with their "overly commercial" #2 Album WE'RE AN AMERICAN BAND in 1973.

We've featured some of their lesser-known, FORGOTTEN HITS like FOOTSTOMPIN' MUSIC, ROCK 'N' ROLL SOUL and FEELIN' ALRIGHT before ... but for the other half of TODAY's GRAND FUNK Two-Fer, we're recommending BAD TIME ... a #4 SMASH from 1975 ... and really their last really GREAT chart entry.



Get the funk out today and give these Flint, Michigan, rockers their due ... Treat your listeners to some GREAT GRAND FUNK RAILROAD Music that they probably haven't heard in a long, long time.
(Let those OTHER stations play SOME KIND OF WONDERFUL six times today instead!!!)

Friday, March 9, 2012

Helping Out Our Readers


>>>I recently picked up an LP with a great cover which might be fun to use in the print book, with an art rendition of 6 DJs at WMEX — but no names or date. It’s part of the Cruisin’ Collection, but I’ve never seen this cover before. Besides no date the only name that might help to date it is Don Daniels as station PD, but I can’t find his name in a search.  Can you or your subscribers help me ID them? My primary interest is in Wolfman Jack, who is easily identified; but I’d like to obviously give credit to the others — it’s a terrific image. Please see the attached. I’m thinking Arnie Ginsburg, and maybe Larry Glick?  (LinDee)
>>>If anybody's got any ideas on this, drop us a line and we'll forward them along.  (Who knows ... maybe some of the jocks on our list were even part of this whole thing!) kk







Hello,
I stumbled onto this blog post while searching for pictures of legendary Boston Top 40 station WMEX, where a poster asked the names of the DJ's who appear in a cartoon on a WMEX "Cruisin' Collection" oldies album.
This album
was released in 1985 or 1986, in the second incarnation of WMEX, Boston when it was revived as an "oldies" station.
The original WMEX at 1510 AM played Top 40 from 1957 to 1975, and was then replaced by a news / talk format.

This second WMEX incarnation, recalling the sound, music, and presentation of the original WMEX as an "oldies" station, was at 1150 AM, and was on the air from 1985 through 1989.
This was long after the on-air days of original WMEX legends like Arnie Ginsburg, who retired from radio by then, and the late Larry Glick, who was on Boston's powerful WBZ by then.
The DJ's pictured in the car on the album cover are (rear, L to R): the late Wolfman Jack (his syndicated show was run late nights on tape), with Don Daniels and Ron Scott.
The DJ's pictured sitting in front of them are (L to R): the late Quentin Migliore with Jack Nash and Bob Bronson.
Hopefully you can pass this info on to LinDee who posted the question.I worked at WMEX the following year, from 1986 through 1988. I was mostly an on-air studio engineer, but also did some live oldies shifts part-time in 1988 as "Eric Parker".
The sound, music and presentation of the original WMEX now streams online 24 / 7 at
http://www.wmexradio.com, programmed by Gary James, WMEX Program Director from 1986 through 1988 (after Don Daniels).
Best wishes,
Eli Polonsky
Somerville, MA


>>>Big reader of Forgotten Hits.  I'm 52 and this song has escaped me finding out if it is available and what the name is.  It is from the documentary called Straight Shooter about the Mamas and Papas.
Here is the song that starts:  I am a rake and a rambling boy, many a city I have been. The Cumberland City is ??????  Well, the Cumberland City, yes, I married me a wife, loved her better than I did my life ... She threaten kind by night and day ...
Can you please send this out to the viewers for help ??  I've tried Shazam and Sound Hound to no luck.  This is a tough one that I feel can be a tremendous challenge for the listeners and having the video clip to show - if we can show this of course ???  Thanks for any help you can give. (Bob)
Could the tune Bob Morrow inquired about as featured in the Mamas & Papas documentary be "Cumberland Mountain Deer Chase," as featured on the first Journeymen album?  I have the doc and the album, but have not unearthed them for this missive.  I will be happy to do so if someone more astute doesn't have a definitive answer.
Scott Paton
I sent Scott a copy of the clip ... and here's what he had to say ...
Kent,
That clip won't open for me, even after I uploaded the latest QuickTime.  I did, however, find "Cumberland Mountain Deer Chase" and it's clearly not the song that Bob Morrow was talking about.  I'll find my Mamas & Papas DVD and see if the song hints at anything I recognize.  I have all the Journeymen LPs / CDs, but there may have been a stray single side or two that never made it to an album.  I guess the tune could even been a cover done in performance-only, too.
Scott
P.S.-- Here's a list of every song that appeared on album. anthology or 45, as far as I know.  Maybe one of these titles hints at the tune: 
  • 500 Miles 
  • Ride, Ride, Ride
  • Soft Blow The Summer Winds
  • Cumberland Mountain Deer Chase
  • Make Me A Pallet
  • The River She Comes Down
  • Black Girl
  • Fennario
  • Gilgara Mountain
  • Dunya
  • Rock Me Lord
  • The Ballad Of The Shape Of Things
  • Environment
  • Oh, Miss Mary
  • Kumbaya
  • Ben And Me
  • Country Blues
  • Someone To Talk My Troubles To
  • All The Pretty Little Horses
  • Virgin Mary
  • Four Strong Winds
  • San Francisco Bay (Version 2)
  • Bay Of Mexico
  • Someday Baby
  • Ja-Da
  • Stackolee
  • Two Hoboes
  • Heredity-Environment
  • It Makes A Long Time Man Feel Bad
  • San Francisco Bay (Version 1)
  • Mary Wore Three Links Of Chain
  • I May Be Right
  • Greenland Whale Fisheries
  • Rag Mama
  • I Am A Poor And Ramblin' Boy
  • Dark As A Dungeon
  • Old Joe Clarke's Blues
  • In The Evening
  • Metamorphosis
  • Waggoner's Lad
  • Cotton Mill Girls
  • I Never Will Marry
  • Gypsy Rover
  • Born In Bethlehem
  • Jack The Sailor
  • Johnny Booker
  • One Quick Martini
  • Benny
  • How Mountain Girls Can Love
  • Rock Island Line
  • Tell Ole Bill
  • Don't Turn Around
  • Greenland Whale Fisheries
  • Hush Now Sally
  • Loadin' Coal
  • What'll I Do
  • Chase The Rising Sun
  • Cup-E-Co
  • Hush Storm
We've been trying to find this song for a couple of years now ... unfortunately, the song clip is SO short ... and used so far in the background ... that I don't think I can identify it from this list.  However, maybe Bob ... or another reader ... CAN ... so thanks for sending!  (Would LOVE to finally be able to solve this mystery for him!)  kk

Is this the song you are looking for Kent?
Carrie
I don't think so ... but I sent you a copy of the clip, too, so you can review. Thanks!  (kk)

>>>One other biggie from our area was a band from Mason City, Iowa, called the Pete Klint Quintet.  They recorded some good stuff including the Hot 100 45 "Walkin' Proud" and were in a similar vein to the Flippers.  These guys commanded top dollar in this area and recorded for Mercury, Atlantic and others.  They did not have a big hit, but they had a huge reputation for being great live.  "Walkin' Proud" made the Hot 100 probably because it was actually a good sized hit in Southern California!!!  (Clark Besch)
>>>The Pete Klint Quintet single "Walkin' Proud" climbed all the way to #98 on The Billboard Hot 100 Singles Chart in 1967 ... and, incredibly, it took them three weeks to climb THAT high!  (lol)  I can't really comment as I've never heard THIS one either!  (kk)

Ask (or heck, just mention it) and ye shall receive.
Tom Diehl
 
Here's the story of my Chi Coltrane detective work ...
First off, she is / was NICE looking! :-)
Ran across an import CD on eBay. The scan mentioned it was "remastered". Knowing what Bob Irwin (Sundazed) wrote on a CD booklet, that Columbia Records only had the master tape, I questioned how can it be remastered! I saw, from the rear scan of the import CD, that a Mike Drive did the remastering. I went to Chi's web site, and there was a similar looking CD album, with snippets. Those ensured that I was listening to actual hit versions, not remakes.
I questioned, via e-mail, where Chi's first album (w/ Thunder And Lightning) was recorded. The reply mentioned at Columbia Studios, in LA., now closed.
Who replied, but Mike Drive!!!
I'm GUESSING, Chi or whoever owns / holds her recordings for Columbia. Nothing what I see mentions Columbia or Sony on the CD! That is why Bob Irwin found nothing more than master tapes while digging through the vaults!!!
Six or so demo songs were presented to Columbia, before Chi was signed to the record label. Like to find / hear those!
Best,
John
We've covered Chi Coltrane a few times before in Forgotten Hits.  (In fact, she even wrote to us once or twice to let us know that she was still performing and recording!) Last weekend when I guested on Rich Appel's "One Hit Wonders At One" program, one of the tracks I had picked out to play was Chi Coltrane's "Thunder And Lightning" ... but we ran out of time.  (Rich said he might feature it later on his show but I wasn't able to stick around to listen.)  For me, this is one of those songs that ALWAYS sounds great when it comes on the radio ... which, sadly, isn't all that often.  It was a BIG hit here in Chicago (#4) ... and reached #15 nationally, too.  You don't have to ask ME twice to feature it again!!!  (lol)  kk
 

Dear Kent,
I have two forgotten songs that I haven't heard in years and am trying to identify both.
#1) This is basically an instrumental with nonsense lyrics "Ding Dong, Ding Dong" and every so often some guy comes on and says "What are you, some kind of nut?"
Probably 1961 or 1962.
#2) Is an instrumental that was a big hit in Pittsburgh in the early 60's.  I remember hearing it on KQV and KDKA. What made it classic was that it was played at a different record speed.  Might have been a Dixieland record that sounded very different at the
slower speed. Any help with this one.
Thanks,
Jim B
These are MUCH tougher to identify when they're instrumentals as there's no "hook" lyric or topic to help you narrow it down.  But I forwarded your email to FH List Member Randy Price, who knows a thing or two about instrumentals ... he's right in the middle of releasing EVERY charted instrumental hit of the '60's!!!  Here's what HE had to say:
Kent,
I have no idea about the second one. The first one could be a record reviewed in Billboard on April 24, 1961:
ANDY CORY
Hey You, What Are You, Some Kind Of Nut -- SILVER BIRD 1023 -- a funny novelty record that could fracture the preteen and even the teen set. Cory asks the question in the title then makes kooky sounds over a good beat. (Ro Jo BMI) (2:36)
– Randy
Not sure if this helps ... but, like I said, not much to go on here.  Maybe somebody else on the list has an idea or two???  (Any chance you've got a short sound clip you can send?)  Let us know!  (kk)

Thursday, March 8, 2012

Thursday This And That

re:  ON THE RADIO:
Kent --
I hope the following e-mail does not in any way offend you or anyone thereafter, but I write it out of frustration -- and hope that after all the years of what I've been wanting to accomplish -- it will be the new 'Field of Dreams'.
At least it's what I've been programming, writing and purposely trying to get to that 'one or two folks' who can 'grasp' that same passion.
It seems that we're preaching the same thing -- but no one listens -- and so, what's it going to take?
I know … but the problem still remains the same -- and it's that old catch 22 situation where people are saying the same thing; Wild Bill Cody recently wrote: 
"Dammit, if I had the cash, I'd start a 50's and 60's station that was manned 24 / 7 with LIVE radio personalities that loved music and their audience and would have the decency to answer the phones within a couple of rings, answer questions on social media and play music that hasn't been burned to death by consultants around the country that don't have a clue about Oldies music or any format!"
You know, Bill and Kent, isn't that what I've been saying? Isn't that what I've been working on trying to accomplish, without having any of the cash? … while looking for the personalities, radio or otherwise, who have that passion? I have experienced those radio persons sitting in a control room with the phones on hold, following the format, saying the same things over and over, while reading a novel … because it's just not FUN to them anymore … and mainly because they're there to collect their check … and that was all they cared about … because they're afraid to 'Step Outside of the Box' for fear of 'Breaking the Rules' and losing their job.  
I don't have the money, but we do have a radio station -- and it is 24 / 7 -- and, due to the lack of cash, I don't have personalities helping to bring it to the 'New Cultural Mainstream' ... and that is one of the main problems.
People are so afraid to 'start something' because they don't have the money -- but yet, here I am, trying to give the station not only an image, but a sound -- and it's daunting when there is no one to help (outside of a few loyal people) and the 'Money People' are not interested in helping because … 'It's just too risky' -- and the industry is dominated by the Major Chains who aren't willing to change their thinking -- and other people are not willing to help because they just don't have the time and cash to make a difference … unless … they 'win the lottery' or suddenly have a benefactor willing to 'be involved'.
I have such BIG DREAMS of being the 'New Cultural Mainstream' on radio stations across the country -- having FUN, talking to people listening to those radio stations willing to carry 'Music for the Ages!' because it DOES CONNECT with not only the listener, but other listeners across the country. It really is a 'RUSH' being able to PRODUCE a SHOW and connecting to those people -- because they ARE THE GOLD in the CURRENT -- and it's those LISTENERS combined with the MUSIC and the ON AIR Personality that 'Make it SPARKLE!' How hard is that for anyone to understand?
I don't believe there is ONE person in the industry who LOVES being on the radio as much as I do … playing the music and connecting with those people -- even going as far as laying everything 'On the LINE' to start a radio station in hopes of 'Making it' to those radio stations.
Nothing aggravates me more than the 'Liner Jocks' and the radio station personalities who have not only cut their 'own throats' by accepting a Voice Tracking' gig just to maintain a position on the radio -- it's those people who aren't willing to 'Go to Bat' for the industry as opposed to 'pushing buttons' and reading a novel while 'On the Air' so as not to rock the boat -- and to keep their paychecks.  In some ways, you can't blame them, but at the same time you want to 'slap them' for the disservice they're doing' to industry.  
I've tried to enlist the help of others who can become involved - but unfortunately it again falls back to … "If I had a radio station … this is what I would do … my own thing!" Doesn't sound much too different from the CORPORATE way of thinking -- because I, too, have my thoughts on delivering the FORMAT in 'My Way' -- but I do believe it to be what others are wanting as well.
Can't say that I blame the Corporate radio folks for wanting to run their business 'Their Way' as well, but here I am … playing the music -- fighting against the economic tide … and that's the main problem -- yet, I still maintain the hope that I can get this company 'off the ground' with the necessary talent, from not only the RADIO personalities but to the MARKETING, SALES, WEB MASTER, IT TECHS and Promotional TALENT.
I've been trying to GET the America's Coast to Coast Business Plan in front of people who can SEE the REAL POTENTIAL for turning it into that CASH so many are claiming they need.  There remains 'NO DOUBT' in my mind that, with ALL of the WORK that YOU BOTH have demonstrated, you also have the SAME PASSION that I, too, have as well -- and yet here we are still trotting along … independently hoping for the same thing.  
How in the world can a man bring people together, under the same umbrella and still maintain that same passion in sharing the 'DREAM' of being the 'NEW CULTURAL MAINSTREAM?' Because that's what we want to do … right?
I can see the tremendous amount of work being done -- and yet, here we are --
For the record, I've seen those 'Liner Jocks' and listen to the bridled 'MASSES' of radio -- I know what can be done … given that I can keep climbing that staircase.
JST KLSX - http://www.RockandRollHeaven.net has been pushing to make that happen -- and with that SPIRIT, I know that I will eventually run into the 'Right Persons' who can come help me make this thing happen -- just like we ALL want to see it happen.
Keep up the spirit, the good work and all that you both have been doing for the sake of 'Bringing Back the Old Days of Radio' in the 'NEW CULTURAL MAINSTREAM!' I would like to think I'm going to have an impact as well with all of the great music from the PAST, PRESENT and FUTURE of those who have been there.
See ya on the radio.  
Mason Ramsey
Well said Mason ... and please know that I would spend my own gas, take my own time and come down there to help YOU put some shows on the air ... all you need to do is ask!  Hey, I'll be there. You got the music, you got the format, let me be a personality ... and it will cost you NOTHING! This music needs to get out.
Quit yer bitchin and get ahold of me! 'Nuff said!
Wild Bill
Tell you what ... if I sent you copies of CD's of the three hour 50's and 60's Show I did last night, it would blow you away! Lemme know! 

A week or two ago we mentioned that K-Hits, while advertising themselves as playing the '60's, '70's, and '80's, seemed to be predominately focused on the '80's.  But now they've started "Beatles Wednesdays", where they feature something by The Beatles at the top and bottom of every hour.  (Hmm ... wouldn't "Fab Four Friday" have sounded a WHOLE lot cooler than "Beatles Wednesdays"?!?!?)  Anyway, it guarantees at least TWO songs from the '60's will be featured each hour, I guess ... now if they'd only get off the same play list that every other radio station in the country seems focused on and recognize some of the OTHER great music and artists that made up these three decades.  (We're here to help if you need it, guys!!! Just check out our SOUND ADVICE column every day!!!)  kk  

I'll have a very special live, in person guest on my show, Vito Picone (of the Elegants).  He'll be talking about his career and songs and people he knew, etc.
The Pop Shoppe is on from 7 PM till 3:01 AM.
Vito will be on at 9 till  ????????
He's a great guest.
www.oldiesyourway.com
DJ Stu Weiss   

Kent ...
I think your readers will have fun with this one.
He plays unfamiliar song by famous singer, followed by a big hit. You have to guess who it is during the first song.Click here: TalkShoe - Audio
Frank B.


re:  DAVY JONES / THE MONKEES:
Still LOTS of talk about the passing of Davy Jones and the music of The Monkees ... I heard from several people who spent a good chunk of their weekend watching The Monkees Marathon on Antenna TV ... we watched quite a few episodes ourselves ... and even ventured over to Me TV to catch the infamous Brady Bunch episode ... and two episodes of "Love American Style" I'd never seen before.  Meanwhile, not a day has gone by where we haven't received several emails about The Pre-Fab Four or come across yet another great article or tribute to Davy and the guys.  Honestly, it's GREAT to see every phase of the media showing and sharing the love ... but who DIDN'T love Davy Jones?!?!?  (kk)  

Hi Kent,
I have three Monkees interviews if you'd like them.  They were a part of a DVD of the Movie that VH1 or MTV did about the Monkees called Daydream Believer.  I'd be happy to give you the audio, or just send you a copy of the DVD if you'd like.  Interviews are with Mickey, Davy, and Peter individually.  I think the movie is fairly accurate, even if the acting isn't great.  The interviews are fun.
Bill  

I'm sure I have these somewhere, too ... but sure, I'd love to hear them again ... maybe even run them in Forgotten Hits.  Thanks, Bill!  (kk)   

Loved the coverage on Davy Jones. The statements from FH readers and those who knew him best really brought his life into perspective.
Be Well,
Carl Wiser
www.songfacts.com 
 

Here's a new posting / review from Gary Pig Gold:
Click here: THE DAYDREAM BELIEVER by Gary Pig Gold - MARCH 2012 

And a couple of GREAT pieces by Dawn Lee Wakefield:
Some of your readers were saying Davy Jones Death wasn't getting enough coverage. I'm with you Kent. Here in New York it's been all over the newspapers, radio and TV.
Frank B. 

Frank sent the following blurbs in from WCBS-FM ... where (obviously!) The Monkees are still MAJOR news.  (Micky Dolenz was a DJ for the station right before they shut down a few years ago to switch to the Jack-FM format.) 

Public memorials for the late Davy Jones are being planned for his native England, as well as in New York, reports Jones’s rep, Helen Kensick, in an email message to the media. 
Dates for those memorials have not been announced, but should come after private services for the former Monkee are held in Florida.  

Micky Dolenz revealed the surviving members of the Monkees may not attend Davy Jones‘ private funeral service in Florida to avoid a media frenzy. His statement comes after hearing the wishes of Jones’ family to keep the service private and low key.  
“My understanding is they want to avoid a media circus and… the family wants to keep it very, very low-key and very, very private,” Dolenz told Billboard
Missing Jones’ private funeral down South doesn’t mean Dolenz, Peter Tork, and Mike Nesmith don’t plan on paying their respects to their former bandmate. Jones’ spokeswoman Helen Kensick has stated public memorials, though not officially announced, are in the works for both New York and the UK, and there is certainly a chance the surviving members could perform there. Dolenz, of course, would not guarantee that will happen. 
“It’s pretty early days, you know, to be making too many plans. I’m still in shock.” 
As for the future of the Monkees, it appears there might not be one.
According to Dolenz, the foursome had an unspoken agreement to never use the Monkees name if only two members were participating. And even if they were all on board, the decision to tour under that moniker is not their own, but the choice of the rights holders.  And of course, the idea of performing without Jones is a tough one to swallow. 
“I can see us getting together to do a memorial concert, of course, but right now I can’t imagine anything else happening without the Manchester Cowboy.”  

Kent ...
Monkee trivia. I think most people know about this by now.  The story behind it is interesting.Click here: snopes.com: Monkee Mike Nesmith and Liquid Paper
Frank B. 

Yeah, this one's become a pretty easy "gimme" trivia answer now.  But one of the funniest things I ever saw was when Mike Nesmith hosted his own television series called "Television Parts."  (His video collection "Elephant Parts" was a HUGE success ... so they tried to turn it into a short-lived tv series.)  In the very first episode, Nez addresses the cameras and talks a little bit about what he'd like to do with the show, and then says he'd like to tell a little bit about his background, mentioning that his mother invented Liquid Paper.  He then explains that the network felt this was wrong because it might be construed as free advertising.  Mike then says "OK ... I get it ... let's just take it right out of the script" ... and then proceeds to delete the whole conversation with Liquid Paper.  Priceless!!!  (kk)   

re:  THE BEACH BOYS:  
Hi Kent,
After reading the scathing review of the Beach Boys Grammy performance I realized just how far we've slid into hell when the story becomes not the revered music makers but the critics, who maybe can't even sing a note or play a tune. 
In the words of the Rolling Stones: "it's the singer, not the song". In other words, are we really expecting pitch perfection, or are we just glad to see that truly gifted musicians have stopped fighting and are doing what they were born to do: making music ... that we love ... together ... for us. This was an awards show, like a military parade for veterans of past wars. Do we make WW2 vets stand up and use weapons on Memorial Day, and complain that they are embarrassing themselves? Please.
And to all the good people who read your blog who digest such sludge and feel depression over their mortality, please You Tube George Beverly Shea, the great Christian singer, singing his beautiful head off at age 102 last summer (this guy was in his 30s when Brian Wilson was born). Can you imagine Simon Cowell telling this guy to sit down and shut up? In the words of Bob Dylan: "he not busy being born is busy dying".
At age 54 I'm in college taking Calculus, Organic Chemisty and General Genetics. Growing old is not a sport for wimps. My advice: suck it up and keep going. It's the only way to go if you want to stay in the game. And it's the only game in town.
Jim Shea  

re:  CRUISIN':
A week or two ago we told you about some VERY cool oldies music cruises coming up.
Now comes word of the "Malt Shop Memories Cruise", departing October 27th (and returning November 3rd).  From their flyer:
THE GREATEST LINE-UP OF ROCK 'N' ROLL LEGENDS EVER ASSEMBLED
Imagine all your favorite artists from rock 'n' roll's glory days performing live just for you aboard an amazing luxury cruise liner.
Nowhere else will you find such a stellar line-up of talent, with seven days of unbelievable music and memories.
Starring DION, FRANKIE AVALON, BOBBY RYDELL, RONNIE SPECTOR, DARLENE LOVE, THE ORIGINAL DRIFTERS, THE DUPREES, SONNY TURNER, CARL GARDNER'S COASTERS, KENNY VANCE AND THE PLANOTONES, THE CHIFFONS, THE TYMES, THE MARVELETTES and JERRY BLAVAT, this one promises to be a REAL delight for fans of old-time rock and roll.
Full details can be found on the website:  www.maltshopcruise.com  

re:  LESTER CHAMBERS:
It started on Facebook ... then FH Regulars Artie Wayne and Dawn Lee Wakefield picked up the baton and kept it going ... and now the money seems to be pouring in.
Here are a couple of pieces spotlighting Lester Chambers of The Chambers Brothers, going through a rough time right now despite selling countless records in the '60's and '70's.
Kent ...
Another Summer Tour:  Crosby, Stills & Nash are not Young (Neil).
Frank B.
 
Click here: Crosby, Stills, and Nash Plan Major US Summer Tour  

Hi Kent,
Thank you for posting the tour information for the Roger Hodgson shows a few weeks back.  I’d like to thank whoever sent you the info in regards to it also.  It just happened that I had to be in Arizona right near the date he played in Phoenix and I was able to fit it in to my plans.  Fortunately tickets were still available and I was able to get a pair in the eleventh row.  Most of his shows sold out quickly.  What a great show it was.  He and his band were excellent.  They played the songs almost identical to how they sound on the albums.  His voice is still sounding strong and the set list was excellent.  I had always wanted to see Supertramp back when he was still in the group but it never happened.  It turns out that this tour is the first time he has played any dates in the United States since he left Supertramp in 1983.  A rare treat it was thanks to you!  This was his third of only ten concerts in the States before he heads to South America and then Europe.  Then he is back in the States for four more shows in August, including one in Highland Park, IL on August 23.  Anyone that was ever a fan of Supertramp will love his show.
Les Peterson  

Our FH Buddy Ron Onesti of Onesti Entertainment and The Arcada Theatre has updated his concert list so we wanted to let all of the "locals" know about it!  (We told you last week that Ron had booked a Teen Idols Double-Whammy for October featuring Davy Jones and David Cassidy and, as a close friend of Jones, was devastated by his unexpected passing.)  Still plenty of GREAT shows coming up.  Here are a few of the highlights:
Tomorrow Night (Friday, March 9th) - FRANKIE AVALON (with special guests Rick Lindy and the Wild Ones)
Friday, March 30th - THE RIGHTEOUS BROTHERS FEATURING BILL MEDLEY (including a very special salute to our friend, Davy Jones)
Saturday, March 31st - JOAN RIVERS - A Live TV Taping ... Two Shoes (7 pm and 9 pm)
Friday, April 20th - THE BODEANS
Friday, May 4th - BIG BAD VOODOO DADDY's Tribute To Cab Calloway
Saturday, May 5th - 25 OR 6 TO 4 Chicago Tribute featuring original Chicago Drummer Danny Seraphine
Friday, May 11th - ABBAMANIA - songs performed from The National Touring Group "Mamma Mia!"
Saturday, May 12th - GREG LAKE of EMERSON, LAKE AND PALMER
Friday, May 18th - BLUE OYSTER CULT
Saturday, May 19th - RIK EMMETT (of TRIUMPH)
September 14th - THREE DOG NIGHT
September 15th - THREE FACES OF THE KING (a Live Elvis Tribute)
September 22nd - An Evening with BRANFORD MARSALIS
September 29th - KANSAS
And more announcements to come!
Full ticket information can be found online at www.oshows.com
re:  THIS AND THAT:
Kent ...
Sad anniversary.
Frank B.   

I was glad to see your mention of “Joy” by Apollo 100 a couple of times recently.  It’s one of my all time favorite songs.  Have you ever heard the follow up single, which is also a Classical Rock song called “Mendelssohn’s Fourth”?  It got some airplay in my area in the spring of 1972 and then disappeared forever.  It took me nearly 20 years to finally track down a copy of the record.  It peaked on Billboard at #94 in April 1972.  It should have done better.  I think it is excellent and still play it often.  I’ve made an mp3 of it and am attaching it to this e-mail.  Thanks again!
Les Peterson
Apollo 100 never achieved the chart success again of their novel, "fluke" hit, "Joy".  (As I mentioned before, this record went all the way to #1 here in Chicago ... and peaked at #6 nationally.
One of my favorite entries in Ron Smith's book "Eight Days A Week: Births, Deaths And Events Each Day In Oldies History" is the listing of Johann Sebastian Bach's birthday on March 21st.  Bach, of course composed the big pop hits "A Whiter Shade Of Pale" by Procol Harum, "A Lover's Concerto" by The Toys and "Joy" by Apollo 100.  (He was born in 1685 by the way.)  Classical music has crossed over to the pop charts a few times.  (We ran a short list recently ... scroll back to Monday's posting!) ... and Bach's compositions have lent themselves well to the pop scene.  (Remember that popular album "Switched On Bach" by Wendy Carlos and Benjamin Folkman from the late '60's ... it featured many of Bach's classical compositions as interpreted by the moog synthesizer!!!  (kk)

 
re:  I'M SO CONFUSED!!!:
I really love the new look of Forgotten Hits. 
What exactly is the font in which the bottom-of-the-page stuff including Sound Advice is rendered? It reminds me of something tropics-related!
Bob in Jersey
I like your Forgotten Hits website. But the strange font you use for the Sound Advice is very, very difficult to read. A slightly more conventional font would be easier on the eyes and mind.
Don Betzold
Fridley, MN
And therein lies the dilemma of trying to maintain a cool looking (yet legible) website!!!  You certainly want SOME level of "pop" on display ... yet you want to keep it clean enough that it's easy to read.  (And, as we learned a long, long time ago ... "You can't please everyone so you've got to please yourself."!!!)
We've tried a few different looks over the past few months and we're still playing around with a few things ... but I really kinda like the way it looks now.  (In fact, one of the cooler things in my mind IS the font at the bottom ... I think with the type reversed out of that dark blue background, it actually makes it EASIER to read!!!)
Anyway, we'll probably experiment a bit more before we're done ... so be patient ... and stay tuned!!! (kk)

Monday, March 5, 2012

Monday Morning Catch-Up


Kent ...
Here's some good news for a change.
Frank B.
With all the recent tragedies from the music world including the deaths of Whitney Houston and Davy Jones of The Monkees, it’s great to finally get some good news! 
We are just finding out this morning that doctors have told Bee Gees great Robin Gibb he is in remission from cancer!
This IS good news.  We had heard that he was recovering nicely (and even wanted to go back out on the road again.)  Barry reportedly agreed if Robin was healthy enough to do so.  (kk)
 
 
Kent ...
I've got to tell you how I got a free Chicago CD.
My sister and her husband were looking around our local Barnes & Noble store.  She was in a hurry to get home. She passed the Music section. She grabbed a "Chicago" CD and didn't bother to check the back cover for list of songs.
Now home, my sister plays the CD she just bought.
Turns out she wanted "CHICAGO", the musical ... and wound up with "CHICAGO", the band.
Now I have a new CD to add to my collection.
Thanks Sis!
(Maybe next time she'll grab a "PLATTERS" CD, thinking it's about dishes.)
Frank B.
 
As a MAJOR Sam Cooke fan, I'm happy to pass along this link:
In commemoration of what would have been, SHOULD have been, the man's 81st Birthday,
Gary Pig Gold's review of the SAM COOKE: PORTRAIT OF A LEGEND cd  
 
Submitted by FH Reader Frank B:
‎The Who Sell Out. Name of a marvelous album by the Who
And a headline used by a gazillion writers (now myself included) to report that Pete Townshend has sold the publishing rights to his amazing list of songs to the Spirit Music Group. That means you’ll be hearing more Who songs in movies, TV and on commercials.
Cha-CHING!

How about Who songs on commercials? 'Bargain' for a Wallmart spot? 'Magic Bus' for the CTA? 'I Can See for Miles' for Spex Optical?
Terri Hemmert  
 
 
LOTS of talk about The Beach Boys' 50th Anniversary Tour ... but now comes word that The Rolling Stones may ALSO be putting aside their differences and hitting the road again in honor of THEIR 50th Anniversary, too!
Kent ...
Could there be another 50th Anniversary tour?
Ronnie Wood says The Rolling Stones are "on the verge" of touring!  
Frank B.
 
And, evidently, this is a big #50 for SEVERAL artists this year:
Kent ...
Another 50 year Anniversary celebration.  
Frank B.
 
And, speaking of The Beach Boys' 50th Anniversary Reunion Tour ...
 
>>>I'm not sure that I get this ... you advertise a website as "No Depression" ... and then write one of the most depressing pieces I've ever read about our '60's icons?!?! 
I just don't get it!!! (kk)
Here's a link from NoDepression.com that provides an explanation of their name in their 'about us' page... stems from a song relevant to the Great Depression:
-- BOB FRABLE
 
This blog CLEARLY bothered Wild Bill Cody (who sent us the first link to their article ... "The Beach Boys:  Why?" a few weeks ago.  Below, Bill comments further:
kk:
This has been sitting around my computer for a week or 10 days now, and forgive me, the weather in Colorado has been horrendous and I had a few sobering thoughts go through my mind the last week or two, but I think it was all brought on by this Beach Boys Blog on No Depression.com, and it has really depressed me since I first read it. I'd like your thoughts and those of the FH readers on this blog. Boy, I don't know what to think of this Beach Boys Blog, except, unfortunately, it's disturbingly true?
After reading this blog over and over about 10 times I'm in a melancholy mood that I haven't been in for years. Damn, for all of us my good friends and sadly, that includes myself, our best days, like it or not, are behind us.  Fight it all you want, and we do every remaining day of our lives, in all things physical, in work, in love, in play, I am brutally reminded on a daily basis when I look in the mirror and see staring back at me the dwindling remnants of youth that have over the course of time, disappeared from this face and body never to be seen again!!! 
And now we see or hear the news of our friends, loved ones and contemporaries leaving us one by one, at first slowly, but now at a pace that is hard to comprehend, almost on a daily basis. When will the bell toll for us? I sit here on an excruciating cold Colorado winter's day, with the wind howling outside my windows and doors sinisterly inviting me to join those that have gone on before me. I'll fight those cold hands of time, but feel them tugging at my heart and soul to let go. Unlike Robert Frost, I don't have "miles to go before I sleep", the final taxicab's fare has arrived and I need to pay the driver. OR NOT!  This disturbing blog has depressed me these last nearly two weeks. 
Why is all of this affecting me negatively? I love the Beach Boys and I'll pay the big bucks to see them perform.  Hell, they were part of my youth and what I remember about the good times in life. The guy that wrote this just totally bums me out. Will the Stones start their next tour with Mick in a wheelchair and Keith carting around an oxygen tank behind his walker? 
C'mon FH readers, say it isn't so. 
"Wild" Bill Cody
 
Interestingly enough, this same blog ran a nice piece on Davy Jones last week ... here's what they had to say: 
The news of Davy Jones’s passing has had more of an impact on me than I would have expected. I mean, it’s not something I ever gave any thought to. But, if you would have asked me, “How would you feel if Davy Jones suddenly died”, I would probably give a detached answer like, "Oh, that'd be sad".
But I’m more than mildly sad.
I was born after The Monkees' heyday, but I remember watching reruns of their TV programs every single day ever summer on Nickelodeon. Even as a kid I recognized the silliness of their comedy, but I loved their music.
As I got older, I heard all the hullabaloo about them not being a “real band” since they were assembled by guys in suits specifically for the purpose of creating a successful TV show. But I thought they were a great pop band. And I still loved their music. 
He was the first person I ever remember my mom saying she had a crush on when she was younger. I learned he was a big heartthrob, saw him in a guest slot on a Brady Bunch rerun that exploited the crush factor. That crush factor is often fuel for haters, and probably was part of the reason for some of the negative fuss about The Monkees. But that stuff doesn't have anything to do with the music. 
I remember hearing about the “mismatched” tour where Jimi Hendrix had been invited to open for them. Every reference to the event talked about what a train wreck of an idea it was to pair the two. My musical tastes are certainly not what you’d call “mainstream”, but I don’t think it would have been that bad of a mismatch. The two musical styles are definitely different, and you might have to tweak the order and presentation a bit. But I think it could have worked. But, of course, I love both of their music.
As my love of music deepened and my tastes developed, I didn’t listen to The Monkees much. I’d enjoy when I heard them on the radio and still remembered all of their songs, but I didn’t own anything or seek it out. Still, I loved what music of theirs I did hear.
A few years back, I was at a Social Distortion concert, my all-time favorite band. They had added an extra member to the band who played accordion and piano / organ. As Social D came back out for an encore the piano player started a lengthy intro to a song. It sounded familiar, but I didn’t recognize it instantly. Then I caught on. I was certain it was “Daydream Believer” by The Monkees. Social Distortion always incorporates a lot of cover songs into their repertoire, but this seemed a stretch. They usually got for old country covers by the likes of Johnny Cash and Hank Williams or punk classics by The Clash. Even thought it was a stretch…it fit. It worked. With Social D, I love their music, you see … so they can make an awful lot work.
But, alas, it wasn’t Daydream Believer. It was their own classic song Prison Bound, with a new, lengthier intro. I’m no musician, but it must have been in the same key or had the same chord progression or something.
I told my wife, who was there with me, after the show that I thought it was Daydream Believer and she immediately said, “That would have been a GREAT cover for them!”
I’ve interviewed Mike Ness, leader of Social Distortion, a few times, but not since that night. Next time I talk to him, I’m gonna try to work up the nerve to suggest that as a cover for them. Hopefully he’ll see it, too.
This article is a remembrance of Davy Jones, not an essay on Social Distortion. But that event has always stuck out to me for one reason: It reminded me that I loved the music of The Monkees.
So I started listening again. Not just to the hits I was familiar with, but their full albums. Songs like “Salesman” and “You Just Might Be the One” stood out, and still do. I share those deeper album cuts on my Dirty Roots Radio Show once in a while. Because I still love their music.
And that’s what Davy Jones leaves behind. He passed too young, at 66. And while there will always be the controversy of whether or not they were a “real band”, there is the music.
The great music that we love.
Thanks for the music, Davy Jones.
It's incredible to think just how many lives these guys touched.  Sure, they've been made fun of and ridiculed for YEARS ... and banned from The Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame because, of course, they're not a REAL band ... yet every week they came into our living rooms and inspired us and made us FEEL the music ... the GOOD TIME music.  Perhaps NOW it is FINALLY time to recognize The Monkees for all that they really were ... and all that they really gave.  (kk)
 
RIP to the wonderful Davy Jones: stage actor, musician, singer and ARGUABLY the most popular Monkee (at least among the pre-teen set, including my younger sister who was totally stricken until Bobby Sherman came along!).  The postings of his various TV appearances 1966-1973 et al and of many of the Monkees episodes have been great.  Sad to hear about Michael Davis as well.  I still do remember the liner notes from "NANCY & LEE" -  "Is Billy really strange?"  "Yes, but he's the best arranger in the whole world ...
So let him be like he wants."  That says it all:  Billy, we'll see you on Some Velvet Morning (when we're straight!!!). 
Love,
Bobster
A couple weeks back FH was taliking about the Bob Shane version of Honey which came out about the same time as Bobby Goldsboro's. I recently got in a batch of surveys and included was this one from KELI Tulsa, OK. #39 lists both releases.
Jack

 
From FH Reader Dave Barry:
Dhani Harrison was Conan O'Brian's guest Thursday night (Feb. 23). I believe you can view the complete broadcast at http://teamcoco.com/. Dhani appeared in the last 12 minutes of the program. He was there to plug his phone app of rock guitar collections (available at Apple Stores) in 3-D, including those of his father. For further information, said Dhani, go to www.georgeharrison.com/dhani. I did, and the page came up for a split second, only to crash onto the George Harrison home page with the message, "The requested page could not be found." So, there's apparently trouble on the website at the moment. 
PS: Actually, as I check out the team coco page, there's currently a direct link to the "George Harrison Guitar App" segment at the top of the page.
 
Kent,
Reading about Toni Wine and Carol Bayer Sager's "A Groovy Kind of Love" made me recall that the song is based on a classical melody, namely the Rondo movement of Sonatina in G major, op. 36, no. 5 by Muzio Clementi, which was written in the 1820s.
Here's a link to the classical piece:
Clementi Sonatina  Op.36 No.5 G Major Rondo_
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=59TVIR8MdjI
At any rate, that got me to thinking about how many popular songs of the 1960s were based, at least in part, on melodies from classical music.  I came up with a list of 23 of them (attached).  Probably there are  more!  But I thought you'd be interested / amused by this collection.
From Classical:
1.  Nut Rocker by B. Bumble and the Stingers (1962) is based on “March of the Wooden Soldiers” from Tchaikovsky’s “Nutcracker Suite.”
2.      My Empty Arms by Jackie Wilson (1961) is based on “Vesti La Giubba” from the opera “Pagliacci” by Ruggero Leoncavallo.
3.      Hello Mudduh, Hello Fadduh by Allan Sherman (1963) is based on “Dance of the Hours” from the opera “La Gioconda” by Amilcare Ponchielli.
4.      A Lover’s Concerto by the Toys (1965) is based on the Minuet in G Major from “Notebook for Anna Magdalena” by J. S. Bach.
5.      A Groovy Kind of Love  by the Mindbenders (1966) is based on the Rondo movement of “Sonatina in G major, op. 36 no. 5” by Muzio Clementi.
6.      Night  by Jackie Wilson (1960) is based on the aria “My Heart Opens Itself at Thy Sweet Voice” from the opera “Samson and Delilah” by Camille Saint-Saens.
7.      Bumble Boogie by B. Bumble and the Stingers (1961) is based on “Flight on the Bumblebee” from the opera “The Tale of Tsar Saltan” by Rimsky-Korsakov.
8.      Alone at Last by Jackie Wilson (1960) is based on a melody from “Piano Concerto in B flat” by Tchaikovsky.
9.      Asia Minor by Kokomo (1961) is based on “Piano Concerto in A minor” by Edvard Grieg.
10.  Oh Lord, Why Lord by Los Pop Tops (1968) is based on “Canon in D major” by Johann Pachelbel.
11.  Magic Moon by by the Rays (1961) is based on the third movement of Claude Debussy’s “Suite Bergamesque,” otherwise known as “Clair de Lune.”
12.  My Claire De Lune by Steve Lawrence (1961) is also based on the third movement of  Debussy’s “Suite Bergamesque.”
13.  Someday Morning by the Wildweeds is based in part on the “Ode to Joy” from Beethoven’s Symphony No. 9 in D minor, Opus 125.
14.  Somewhere by the Tymes is based on the first movement of Mozart’s Piano Sonata No. 16 in C major.
15.  Can’t Help Falling in Love by Elvis Presley (1962) is based on a theme from Jean Paul Égide Martini’s “Plaisir d’Amour” (“The Joy of Love”), from 1780.
16.  A Whiter Shade of Pale by Procol Harum (1967) is based on two pieces by J. S. Bach: Air from “Orchestral Suite in D” and “Wachet Auf” from Cantana 140.
17.  Tonight My Love Tonight by Paul Anka (1961) is based on “Caro Nome” from Verdi’s opera “Rigoletto.”
18.  Music Music Music by the Sensations (1961) is based in part on Lizst’s “Hungarian Rhapsody No. 2.”
19.  The Way of a Clown by Teddy Randazzo (1960),  like My Empty Arms above, is based on “Vesti La Giubba” from the opera “Pagliacci” by Ruggero Leoncavallo. 
20.  In Time by Steve Lawrence (1961) is based on Tchaikovsky’s “Pathetique Symphony.”
21.  Cry Softly by Nancy Ames (1966) is based on Liszt’s “Liebestraum.”
22.  Juanita Banana by the Peels (1966) is based on “Cara Nome” from Verdi’s “Rigoletto.”
23.  Lullaby of Love by the Poppies (1966) is based on Brahms’ “Lullaby.”
Henry McNulty
We actually covered this topic awhile back in Forgotten Hits ... and it comes up from time to time.  (What I like to call "Classical Rock" as opposed to "Classic Rock"!!!)  This is a good list ... I'm sure folks will want to check out the origins of some of these original melodies! 
I would immediately add "Joy" by Apollo 100 and "A Song Of Joy" by Miguel Rios to this list ... we featured BOTH of these tracks in our SOUND ADVICE column recently.  And I know that there are several more ... those were just the first two to pop into my head as I reviewed your list.  And let's not forget the disco version of "A Fifth Of Beethoven", put together by Walter Murphy.  (Those are probably some of the most obvious ones.)
On Sunday's "The Rest Of The Week with Rich Appel" radio program, I played "Ding Dong The Witch Is Dead" by The Fifth Estate, which includes a musical interlude taken from a 1612 piece written by Michael Praetorius. Some might also include "It's Now Or Never" by Elvis Presley in this category ... Paul Simon's "American Tune" ... even the theme from "2001".  Barry Manilow borrowed heavily from Chopin in "Could It Be Magic" (and made no secret of it!) ... and Eric Carmen's "All By Myself" (as well as bits of "Never Gonna Fall In Love Again" show his admiration for Rachmaninoff.  Another personal favorite is "Midnight Blue" by Louise Tucker, which tanked on the pop charts ... but is one of the prettiest melodies I've ever heard. 
I'm sure our readers can come up with dozens more if put to the challenge ... wanna have a go at it???  (kk)
 
Kent;  
July of 1975, I bought a  new record player. It was a QUAD.
Only ever bought one quad record ... and it was a disappointer, even if it was by Elvis, that satellite one.
That player lasted only a few years and I put it out at the curb, and through my sister's ability to get at her discount, I bought a  new VICTEROLA type,  about 10 years back.  Going on holidays, my sister took it to her daughter's so I could get it.  Anyway, I took an LP  and a 45 out, just to hear that SOUND ... and the 45 was AIN'T THAT LOVIN' YOU by Elvis, and the LP has same song, DIFFERENT TAKE (at HOUND DOG speed)
I have the player open on their couch and am spinning the 45, as her son, my GRAND nephew, who was about 5 or 6, watches this take place, and we listen.
This is 10-12 years ago.
While the record player gives out this music, he sits there, LOOKING AT IT, then asks,
"WHAT???????????? is this T H I N G?"
He had already gotten into playing CDs and VHSs.  BUT these large LARGE discs ... and they were playing this STUFF.  He's NEVER seen one, so "WHAT IS IT?"
He'd not likely ever heard ELVIS, nor that type of music.  Yet, in varied stores in Toronto, LIKLEY as well in Chi-ca-go, VINYL record players are big ... as are RECORDS AGAIN.
Thankfully at the PRICE they want for an LP, I still have the LPs I had since 1966 on.
First 45 was Good Luck Charm and First LP Elvis Gold Records. (1958)
Heard tell last year vinyl was done they held a contest for MISS PHONOGRAPH 19??
The gal who won did so because her figure was 45 - 33 - 78!
And many relatives say, "AT 64, no wonder you're still single."
YOURS A-GAIN, 
Robert Black;
Kincardine & Willowdale
LOL ... 45 - 33 - 78, huh?  Who was that, J-Lo???
Vinyl does seem to be making a comeback (but it's very limited pressings and, as such, very expensive to purchase) ... but some people just prefer that "sound" you describe.
I've told this story before but it still cracks me up.  Many, many years ago (15 perhaps), I was copying some music from records to cassette tapes to listen to in the car.  (Toldja it was a long time ago!!!)  Anyway, I was in my music room, working away, when my daughter (probably then about 11) came in with the cordless phone to tell me that I had a phone call.  I couldn't hear very well what was coming through on the other but I knew it was an important call ... so I asked her to please turn the record off.  She had absolutely NO idea how to do so ... had never played a record in her life.  Didn't even realize that you could simply lift the tone arm to stop the music.  Completely cracked me up at the time (and still makes me smile today.)  Kids born after the CD-age typically have NO concept of how we used to listen to music.  (kk)
 
Kent,
I am a recent subscriber and love the newsletter!  I also liked hearing that rare tune on today's sound advice by the Southerland Brothers (vaguely recall the chorus ... good tune!)
In 6th grade, in 1962, I had a crush on a girl name Donna.  For "share and tell day", she brought in a 45 of Dion's The Wanderer.  I loved the song, wanted that record.   Donna and the song were a potent combo.   But, I had to wait for the 45, since it was on back order at the only store selling 45s in our small town.  So, the first 45 I took home was "My Boomerang Won't Come Back" by Charlie Drake. (the chorus swings ala Louis Prima). In 1996 I bought a jukebox, and ordered more 45s to add to my collection ... including a copy of "Boomerang."  (I had traded my copy away in '65),
When I received the new copy,  I realized that there were two versions of Boomerang, as the original was deemed too controversial for radio.  The edited radio version was politically correct with certain word changes.
I've always loved Dion, he still sounds great!   Donna is long gone, and she was never a prima-donna!
Billy F.
Good story, Billy ... and glad you're enjoying Forgotten Hits!
The earlier version of "My Boomerang Won't Come Back" featured the line "I practiced till I was black in the face", which was later replaced by "blue in the face".  We've featured both versions before in Forgotten Hits.  (kk)
 
re:  COOL VIDEOS:
An oldie?  Whoa! ... a mystery ... Johnny Cash and MELANIE duet-ing, doing SILVER THREADS AND GOLDEN NEEDLES ... 
that's some pairing !!!
Johnny DID have some pretty cool guests on his show ... I love this comment from YouTube:
Johnny was a smart guy! He liked having a lot of cutie little singers like Melanie and Linda Ronstadt on his show all the time. One more reason to like him!
Scott MacKay did a radio thing a couple weeks ago, having listeners call in with some of the oddest pairings they've ever seen in concert.  (For Frannie and I, one of the strangest was The Drive's recent Birthday Bash featuring America ... with Jethro Tull!!!)  It was all centered around the recent concert here featuring headliners Van Halen ... and Kool and the Gang!!!  I remember being at an Eagles concert several years ago where the opening act was Melissa Etheridge ... we had second row seats that literally cost a small fortune ... the most I've EVER paid for a rock concert in my life ... and after she finished her set, virtually EVERY fan sitting near us got up and left the show!!!  They had come EXCLUSIVELY to see her ... and paid a premium for front row, second row and third row seats ... and then just up and left, leaving those seats vacant for the entire Eagles performance!  I've never seen anything quite like it ... and felt SO bad for those fans sitting 40 rows back who would have killed for the chance to sit so close to see their idols live in concert.  (kk)
 
Jimmy Castor dead, January 16, 2012 ...
Give a listen ... it gets really hot around 1:30
RENFIELD
Written off as just a novelty tune, there's some pretty soulful jammin' going on in the background of this track. A #31 Hit from 1967.  (kk)
 
I HOPE YOU'LL ENJOY THIS SPECIAL NEW MUSIC VIDEO OF MINE THAT'S FILLED WITH WONDERFUL MEMORIES AND WILL FORWARD IT TO YOUR ENTIRE FAMILY & FRIENDS.  THANK YOU!!!
WARMEST REGARDS,
TRADE MARTIN 
We’re sure you’ll recall many of these visuals while listening to our classic lyric and  plaintive melody. The sad part of our lives is that we can never return to these good ‘ole days, but with joy, a smile and a tearful eye, we can still discuss, reminisce and dream about them.
We’re hoping you’ll enjoy our latest “I’ll Remember” music video and that you’ll share it with your family and friends.  May God bless us and the great yesterdays we’ve all experienced and shared.

Interesting interview: Dick Clark -- young and very healthy -- interviews a very much alive Michael Jackson -- debuting on American Bandstand 42 years ago today, Feb 21, 1970.
For some reason -- probably pertaining to copyright issues -- my clip ended after the interview but before the music began.
Makes you feel a whole lot older, doesn't it:) And, oh those fashions and hair styles:)
Fred Vail
GREAT clip!  And you're right ... Dick Clark has never looked better!  Thanks, Fred!  (kk)
 
re:  NANCY SINATRA: 
Kent, 
In the Nancy Sinatra liners notes to her Rhino CD "Nancy Sinatra: The Hit Years", she mentioned percussionist Emil Richards. 
On your site, and I know it's just a typo as I checked my copy of the liner notes, but it was spelled Emit Rhichards.
Let's give Emil Richards the credit he's due.  He's an incredibly versatile musician.  He played the bells on Simon & Garfunkel's "Scarborough Fair", the finger snaps on The Addams Family"  theme written by Vic Mizzy and the xylophone on The Simpson's" theme. 
In 1974, he toured with Frank Sinatra for several months, then went on tour with George Harrison and Ravi Shankar.
He played on several Frank Zappa albums, including one of my all time favs, "Lumpy Gravy"
I've had his amazing instrumental LP "New Sound Element: Stones" since it first came out in 1966.
At his website,
emilrichards.com, he lists 718 artists and performers he's worked with.  His movie credits are equally astounding. 
And thank goodness, he's still with us.
Doug Thompson 
Wow!  A pretty amazing and impressive resume! And yes, by ALL means, let's set the record straight right now! (Just scrolled back ... looks like I spelled BOTH of his names wrong!!! Must have been on a roll that day!!!)  Thanks for straightening this out, Doug.  (kk)

re:  DOO WOP:
The other day we mentioned DJ Stu Weiss' on-air tribute to Ronnie I ...
Now comes word that his famous Doo-Wop Shop is closing its doors.
 
re:  THE ROCK AND ROLL HALL OF FAME:
I'll be playing in a tournament in Akron, Ohio, again this year in June and we'll visit the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame again. This year's tribute is to the Grateful Dead. I'm not a Grateful Dead head but I always appreciated them in concert as they mixed many oldies in their sets.
Are you still going to try to coordinate a trip to the R&R HOF? I'd like to meet up with you guys if you do. My problem is that I'm usually playing somewhere in a softball tournament but I skipped three last year for 50 year high school reunions (yes, I went to a number of high schools -- they kept asking me to leave but I still made many lifelong friends).
Danny
We've been talking about putting together a Forgotten Hits Trip to The Rock And Roll Hall of Fame for YEARS now ... but still haven't been able to pull it off.  (Honestly, Frannie and I have yet to see it ... and would LOVE to ... it's just so hard to coordinate so many people around one specific date ... but we hear from readers all the time who say they would love to go ... so maybe we'll finally get it together one of these summers!!!)  An Grateful Dead exhibit holds no appeal for me ... but I'm still dying to spend a day or two there just to soak it all in.  (kk)
 
re:  ON THE RADIO:
Kent,
I don’t know WHAT Ryan Wild and those were thinkin’ by signin’ on with Tom Kent’s network full-time. I, for one, thoroughly ENJOYED Jeff James’ ‘Saturday night live @ the ‘70s show’.  He played cuts no other ‘70s show would THINK to touch, i.e. songs that peaked below the national top 10.  Since I have the book of the Hot 100 charts of the ‘70s,  I listen to the top 40 repeat shows, and, I’d called Jeff up that night to request my fave song, from that week’s show, as well as, my favorite from that week in ’79. I just hope that Ryan, and the others, would have Y-103.9 go back to fully live and local, with the reinstatement of the much-missed ‘Saturday night live @ the ‘70s.’ I can’t be alone in my way of thinking!
David Wollenberg
I'm not a big fan of Tom Kent either ... quite honestly, I rarely listen to the station anymore.  (Coupled with the now unentertaining air staff ... and the fact that their signal seems to get weaker by the day ... it just isn't a pleasant listening experience for me anymore.)  Jeff James is back on the air on the weekends ... but his Saturday Night '70's Show is sorely missed ... by many.  We still hear from Jim Shea's fans, too ... who are still going through various stages of withdrawal.  Honestly, we think NexMedia should just hire US to build an air staff and a play list that the oldies fans of Chicago will respond to.  (But first they've just GOT to beef up that signal!!!)  kk
 
KK:
Here's a quick response I had to an article by Robert Feder (Chicago Tribune), who's been a BIG SHOT entertainment writer in Chicago for decades.
For once, I agree with a Robert Feder article.  (Damn, when I was on B96, he used to write columns about how much our Morning Show sucked!  Hey, all I can say is we kicked Mancow and Danny Bonaduce's ASSES in Chicago ... and I've got the numbers to prove it ... but that's for another day.)
I agree with Feder, I honestly believe for the most part radio is SOOOOO DONE - STICK A FORK IN IT! I honest to God believe the death of radio began with the emergence of big conglomerates and especially voice-tracking.  Think about it ... in a major city when you've tracked your show from Friday til Monday and something catastrophic  happens (i.e. tornadoes, the death of a major music star, a national emergency), and you go on your merry way telling your listeners what a great weekend it is and that you're getting ready to play 101 minutes of nonstop music, OH and be sure and call in to the listener line for a request (that no one will EVER pick up, because no one's at the station) or leave a request on the station website, that no one will even see on a weekend, because people in radio have lives. So we LIE to listeners and pretend we are there for them. What a CROCK!
Dammit, if I had the cash, I'd start a 50's and 60's radio station that was manned live 24/7 with LIVE radio personalities that loved the music and loved their audience and would have the decency to answer the phones within a couple of rings, answer listeners' questions on social media and play music that has not been burned to death by consultants around the country that don't have a clue about Oldies Music or ANY format! Damn, how consultants can sleep at night is beyond me ... here, have another Ambien, (maybe it will put you to sleep forever!)
I hate to get on a soapbox, KK, but damn, radio used to be so much fun, especially back in the late 60's early 70's, when a disc jockey was a REAL DOWN HOME PERSONALITY.
Now they have these lame young card readers with NO PERSONALITY.  The same thing has happened with late night TV ... Leno and especially Letterman are SOOOO PATHETIC! The only breath of fresh air on Late Night TV is Jimmy Fallon ... damn his "Springsteen" week last week was awesome!
Okay, I 'm done bitching, but I'll guarantee you, a lot of the old timers, that KNOW radio will agree with me 100%.
Again I love Forgotten Hits! You kick ass, my man!
"Wild" Bill Cody
 
Hi KK!
Tuesday night I'm having "Half Monkees Night," meaning half of the show will be devoted to the Monkees, in memory of Davy Jones.  I'll be doing the FH Spotlight record on the other half.  Hoping some of your readers can tune in and listen to this week's show.
Mr. C.
Hoping that I can tune in and listen, too!!!  (For some reason, I always seem to get home late on Tuesday Nights!!!)  Scroll down to the bottom of the web page to find the "Listen Live" link to Mr. C's Tuesday Night Flipside Show on Radio Free Nashville.  (kk)