Roberta Flack has died. She was 88. No cause of death was given, but we know that in 2022 she acknowledged that she she was suffering from ALS or Lou Gehrig's Disease and could no longer singer or perform.
From her family's statement: We are heartbroken that the glorious Roberta Flack passed away this
morning, February 24, 2025. She died peacefully surrounded by her family.
Roberta broke boundaries and records. She was also a proud educator.
Flack topped all three pop charts three times with her hits "The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face" (1972, 6 weeks in Billboard), "Killing Me Softly With His Song (1973, five weeks in Billboard) and "Feel Like Makin' Love (1974, one week in all three trades.) She also earned Top Ten Hits for her duets with Donny Hathaway ("Where Is The Love," #5, 1972 and "The Closer I Get To You," #2, 1978.)
Flack originally recorded "The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face" in 1969 for her album "First Take." Clint Eastwood heard ... and loved the tune ... and put it in his movie "Play Misty For Me" ... and the rest, as they say, is history. Re-released as a single in 1972, it topped all three charts for multiple weeks: six in Billboard, five in Record World and four in Cash Box.
That record, coupled with "Killing Me Softly With His Song," captured back-to-back Grammy Awards for Record Of The Year, the first time any artist won consecutive awards for this honor. (kk)
I didn't realize that Roberta was neighbors of John and Yoko at The Dakota ... and their families became very tight over the years. Both Sean and Julian Lennon posted nice memorials:
Roberta Flack was a very close family friend and neighbor. She was an incredibly kind woman. Uniquely talented. I am eternally grateful to have known her. I’m heart broken she had to leave this earth. Will always love you,
Sean Lennon
Roberta Flack was a neighbor of Dad’s in New York City, and a dear friend of our family. Very sad to hear of her passing. Deepest condolences to all who loved her.
Julian Lennon
At the age of 74, Phil Collins says he’s done making and performing new music. (Collins has been battling a series of health issues for several years now … and even had to cut the Genesis reunion/farewell tour short due to the crippling back pain he was suffering. Even then, he sang his vocals while seated in a chair on stage while his son Nic handled all of the drumming.)
It's a shame … as Phil was one of the most popular artists of the ’80’s … actually eclipsing the popularity of the band he stepped forward to sing lead for after the departure of Peter Gabriel.
In a recent interview he told Mojo Magazine “I keep thinking I should go downstairs to the studio and see what happens. But I’m not hungry for it anymore. The thing is, I’ve been sick, I mean very sick.” (He did not go into any specific details regarding all of the various health issues he’s been facing … but looks as though he’s aged thirty years since the way we remember him.)
Collins holds the distinction of being one of only three artists to have sold more than 100 million records both with a group and as a solo artist. The other two are Paul McCartney and Michael Jackson. (kk)
Gwen McCrae has passed … she was 81.
In 1975, her hit “Rockin’ Chair” made The Top Ten in all three major music trade publications. (Her husband George McCrae topped all three charts the previous year with “Rock Your Baby.”)
Gwen was a true One Hit Wonder … none of her other releases made The Top 100.
It is reported that Gwen McCrae was the first artist to record “Always On My Mind” but it failed to chart. (Actually, Brenda Lee recorded it first … but it was Gwen’s version that was released first. The song at that time was known as “You Were Always On My Mind.”) The song, of course, is best known for Elvis’ and Willie Nelson’s versions. (kk)
Timothée Chalamet was finally recognized for his portrayal of Bob Dylan in the motion picture "A Complete Unknown" with a SAG Award Sunday Night - Best Male Actor in a Leading Role, Motion Picture. The film is also nominated for eight Academy Awards this year. We'll see how he fares in that competition when the ceremony airs this weekend. (kk)
Kent,
The subject of "local" versions of I DREAMED I WAS IN HILLBILLY HEAVEN was brought up. I talked to Ronnie Kaye, retired DJ here in OKC. He was working at WKY-AM 930 when the record came out. I asked him if he remembered the record and if by some chance he had a copy. He did remember it and didn't really know offhand if he had one stored away at his home or not. I remember I discussed this with the late DJ Dale Wehba a few years ago but cannot remember what he told me. That local version, as far as OKC area, is somewhat non-existent. I know that occasionally through the years I have tried to locate it.
As for the song HIGH SCHOOL U.S.A., I have all versions. I have a 2-LP set with all 28 versions. It also includes the national version, which I have on a single. It also includes the original version, which was for the state of Virginia. From what I know and understand and remember from reading years ago, the state of Oklahoma was the last one he recorded. It was brought to my attention years ago that in the OK version, not every school mentioned is a high school. I believe he mentions a Jr. College as well as a Jr. High.
Larry
I don’t know that “customized” versions of “I Dreamed I Was In Hillbilly Heaven” existed as actual record pressings … I’m guessing they were just tapes supplied to the radio stations. As you can hear by listening to it, it’s a pretty crude drop in … an obvious edit.
The “High School USA” idea was a clever one … I’m sure kids growing up listening and attending those schools at the time got a real kick out of it to hear their school mentioned. I’m surprised it wasn’t a bigger hit. (kk)
Let's all wish Brian Setzer good health in 2025! 👍 Once saw him in the company of Lisa Marie Presley at my local bowling alley. At the bar he asked me where Richie Valens lived. Told him to go north to Pacoima, his hometown.
Wonderful that Trini Lopez has a museum in his name. Met him at a Century City event one night. Very nice man.
Jim Roup
Timmy sent us this Concert Poster of the Week, which ties in nicely with all vintage country music we’ve been talking about lately in regards to artists like Johnny Cash, Tex Ritter and … Walter Brennan?!?!? Yep, HE’S come up, too! (kk)
Little Bee Books, ABKCO Music & Records, Inc., and the estate of Sam Cooke are proud to announce the publication of a picture book adaptation of Sam Cooke’s iconic song, “A Change Is Gonna Come,” illustrated by acclaimed artist Nikkolas Smith.
Written by Sam Cooke in 1964, “A Change Is Gonna Come” has continued to inspire those globally facing injustice, offering hope for a better future. As the fight for equality endures, the timeless message of Cooke’s lyrics remains just as vital today as it was when he first wrote, sang, and performed them sixty years ago. Paired with #1 New York Times bestselling artist Nikkolas Smith's magnificent illustrations, Sam Cooke's stirring message encourages us to continue the fight for change.
In preparation for this exciting title, Nicole Cooke-Johnson, and the estate of Sam Cooke, have provided the following statement:
As stewards of Sam Cooke's legacy, the estate is proud to share with you a project close to our hearts. First released in 1964, “A Change Is Gonna Come” remains one of the most powerful and poignant anthems in American music history. With its soulful, hopeful message, the song resonated deeply in the turbulent times of the Civil Rights Movement, and it continues to inspire change, compassion, and resilience today.
We recognized the importance of introducing this iconic song to younger generations in a format that speaks to them directly. This book is not only a celebration of Sam's music, but also a tool for instilling values of hope, perseverance, and the belief that change is possible. Through colorful illustrations and accessible storytelling, the book distills the essence of Sam's powerful message into a language children can understand and embrace.
Our hope is that this book will not only be a source of inspiration but also a spark for important conversations—about social justice, empathy, and the collective power we all have to shape a better future. We believe that teaching young people these values early on creates a ripple effect that can change the world for the better.
We are committed to continuing Sam’s mission of using music as a catalyst for positive change, and we are thrilled that his message will live on in the hearts of future generations.
With love and intention,
Nicole Cooke-Johnson, estate of Sam Cooke
“My first introduction to Sam Cooke’s civil rights era classic was hearing it thirty years ago, attached to the iconic Spike Lee film Malcolm X. Because ‘A Change is Gonna Come’ means so much to the Black community, the song followed me throughout my entire life, so I did not take lightly the humbling task of bringing this soulful masterpiece to life visually,” said illustrator Nikkolas Smith. “I did so by placing the lyrics inside a newly created story, set in the 1960s. It follows a young boy who uses the gift of photography to guide him throughout life, documenting the highs, lows, fears, and hopes of the civil rights era. The vintage art style and sweeping brushstrokes of each spread have the intended feel of a mid-twentieth-century oil painting, and are heavily inspired by the legendary photographer Gordon Parks, who was a dear friend of Sam Cooke. I wanted much of the main character’s experiences to feel as though they were born directly through the lens of Parks’s Voigtländer Brillant camera.
“A particular challenge in this book was to have constant moments that juxtapose the depths of injustice and racism with the hope of a just and equitable society, or the first steps towards it. My hope is that this book can act as a supplement to Mr. Cooke’s timeless anthem for freedom, reminding us how far we’ve come and how far we still need to go in order to bring about the change that every person deserves.”
Brett Duquette, Editorial Director, added “In 1964, Sam Cooke expressed his hopes and despairs with a song as beautiful as it was powerful. In this new picture book, Nikkolas Smith pays homage to Cooke’s anthem with inspiring art that honors Black activists who lived, died, and fought for a better world during the Civil Rights Movement. Sharing this empowering ode with children serves as both a tribute to what has been accomplished and a reminder that the work of dismantling racism continues.”
A Change Is Gonna Come will be released September 2, 2025, and will be published in partnership with the estate of Sam Cooke.
About the author and illustrator:
Sam Cooke (1931-1964) is one of the most iconic singer-songwriters in American history. His influence spanned genres, and his genius as a singer, songwriter, producer, entrepreneur, and activist, paved a new way forward for Black musicians in the recording industry. Though he had many hit songs, “A Change Is Gonna Come” (1964) remains his most recognized and powerful work. This hopeful anthem garnered widespread adulation and continues to be celebrated as one of the greatest songs of all time. Posthumously inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and awarded the GRAMMY for lifetime achievement, Sam Cooke was a trailblazing legend whose work shaped culture and who fought for the advancement of civil rights and freedoms. His voice was a galvanizing force that helped express the joys and struggles of millions and inspired true societal change.
Nikkolas Smith is an artivist, award-winning picture book creator, and Hollywood film illustrator. His books include the New York Times bestselling The 1619 Project: Born on the Water, The History of WE, I Am Ruby Bridges, The Artivist, That Flag, Black Panther: Wakanda Forever: The Courage to Dream, Captain America: A Hero Looks Like You, and My Hair Is Poofy & That's Okay. Known for his artistic depictions of marginalized voices, Nikkolas speaks on artivism around the world, sparking important conversations and inspiring positive change. Born in Houston, Texas, Nikkolas lives in Los Angeles, California with his family.
About Little Bee Books: Little Bee Books is an independent children’s book publisher dedicated to making high-quality, creative, and fun books for busy little bees ages 0 through 14. Through three imprints dedicated to children’s, middle grade, and licensed titles, Little Bee Books offers an inspired selection of early learning concept books, board books, novelty books, activity books, picture books, chapter books, nonfiction, gift sets, and more. For more information, please visit littlebeebooks.com.
About ABKCO Music & Records Inc.: ABKCO Music & Records, Inc., is one of the world’s leading independent entertainment companies. It is home to iconic music catalogues that include compositions and recordings by Sam Cooke, The Rolling Stones, Bobby Womack, Eric Burdon, The Animals, Herman’s Hermits, Marianne Faithfull, The Kinks as well as the Cameo Parkway masters by such artists as Chubby Checker, Bobby Rydell, Clint Eastwood, The Dovells, ? and The Mysterians, The Orlons, Dee Dee Sharp, Charlie Gracie, Bob Seger, and The Tymes. Releases on ABKCO’s SAR Records include albums by L.C. Cooke, The Soul Stirrers, Billy Preston, Johnnie Taylor, The Valentinos, Mel Carter and more. ABKCO is active on many fronts, including the release of critically lauded soundtracks, compilations, reissues from its catalog, film, commercial placement of its master recordings and music publishing properties in all media. One Night In Miami…, ABKCO’s latest theatrical production, received a nomination for the 2017 Olivier® Award for Best New Play and three Academy Award nominations as a Major Motion Picture directed by Oscar® winner Regina King.
A brand new video has dropped analyzing The Monkees’ second album “More Of The Monkees”
You can view it here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mqaZz1j-SvM
And, as a special tie-in, Beatland Books is now offering their Monkees Day-By-Day book (an absolutely MASSIVE tomb of information, by the way) for $15 off …
https://beatlandbooks.myshopify.com/
Use special code PARLOGRAM15 to take advantage of this discount (kk)
And Timmy sent us this surprisingly high-quality video of The Beatles performing at The Hollywood Bowl, August 23rd, 1964 (kk)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=svXwcgFIAmw
We love the referrals!
This just in from Chuck Buell …
"Thanks for the heads up about Forgotten Hits. I just spent way toooo much time looking at it. It's now on my "favorites" list.
I was surprised to see that Goldfinger made the top 102 list FOUR times this week in 1965 by four different artists! Shirley Bassey's rendition was top (#24) but three more arrangements also made the list (#61, #80) with the last one coming in at #102. Shirley's version is the only one I can hear in my head!"
According to Joel Whitburn’s Top Pop Singles book, FIVE versions of “Goldfinger” made the Billboard chart in 1965. As mentioned, Shirley Bassey’s was the King … or, I guess in this case, the QUEEN of the chart, ultimately peaking at #8. But Billy Strange (#55), John Barry (who wrote the music … and also conducted the orchestra for Shirley Bassey’s version, #72), Jack LaForge (#96) and Jimmy Smith (#105) also charted with this tune.
Amazingly, John Barry had the bigger hit here in Chicago. His instrumental version peaked at #4 … while Bassey’s vocal topped out ten spots lower! (kk)
60 YEARS AGO TODAY:
2/25/65 – Comedian Carrot Top was born
Also on 2/25, George Harrison turned 22
One could argue that George wasn't always properly recognized for his contribution to The Beatles' sound (and I'd be one to agree with that statement.)
Harvey Kubernik sent us the ABC Press Release announcing The Beatles' upcoming appearance on their new hit musical television series "Shindig!" ...
Where (in addition to several other mistakes) the ABC Brass refer to him as George HAMILTON!!!
Amazing!!! The forever sun-tanned actor had just completed his role portraying country music legend Hank Williams in the film "Your Cheatin' Heart" ... and now he was a member of The Beatles!
THESE JUST IN:
A couple of cool shots of George sent in by our readers in this morning's mail ...
This one's from Jim Roup ...
Remembering George Harrison on his birthday.
It was a cold late night at The Monkey Bar when I took this. After asking if I could get a photo, he took a long time looking at my old Vancouver '86 British Columbia sweatshirt. Then said "Go ahead, take it!"
He wore this colorful jacket the next night at the Billboard Awards when Tom Petty gave him The Century award.
Jim
And this one's from Timmy ... a vintage shot from I'd guess around 1967 ...
