Saturday, September 12, 2015

Yesterday We Told You ...

>>>9/11/1945 =  Happy Birthday Dennis Tufano  (Frank B.)

>>>"The Buckinghams: The Complete Hit Singles" is available today.  We told you last week that we'd be running the complete, unedited, unabridged version of the disc's liner notes on October 1st ... and also that we had a copy to give away to a lucky Forgotten Hits Reader ... so if you'd like YOUR shot at a free copy, please drop us a line and let us know.  Simply put "Buckinghams CD" in your subject line and we'll enter your name in the drawing.  (kk)

TODAY WE'RE TELLING YOU ...   

Kent ...
9/11/1945 =  Happy Birthday Dennis Tufano.
Here's my favorite Buckingham's Hit.
Mercy Mercy Mercy can Dennis Tufano sing this song!
Frank B.




Response to our Buckinghams free CD give-away has been good ... we'll take entries through Sunday and then pick a winner next week.  More details above.  (kk)
 
>>>On October 30, Eagle Rock Entertainment and Zappa's Honker Home Video will issue the never-before-released Frank Zappa’s Roxy: The Movie on DVD & Blu-Ray with an exclusive Soundtrack included.  
 
TODAY WE'RE TELLING YOU ...
 
You can view a brand new trailer for this film here ...   
 
>>>A new Johnny Cash Documentary will air on the anniversary of his death (9/12)  Frank B
 
TODAY WE'RE TELLING YOU ...
 
That's tonight on CMT ... check your local listings.
Meanwhile, after viewing this program, Rolling Stone Magazine came up with a list of Ten Things You Didn't Know About Johnny Cash ... 
 
If you haven't already seen it, scroll back to Wednesday's post to read our review of the EXCELLENT Jeff Lynne Live Hyde Park Concert DVDThis is one you'll want to add to your collection.  (kk)
 
TODAY WE'RE TELLING YOU ...
 
Looks like Jeff Lynne is planning a comeback in a very big way.  News of a new record deal and brand new album release (now billed as Jeff Lynne's ELO) hit his webpage this week ...
 
 
Lynne has also produced the new Bryan Adams album ... and the first video from that set was released this week as well ...
 
 

Friday, September 11, 2015

The Friday Flash

re:  Here We Come ... Again:
Rhino is releasing the complete Monkees television series again ... on BluRay this time around ... all 58 episodes plus their theatrical release "Head" (with never-before-seen outtakes), their television special "33 1/3 Revolutions Per Monkee", bonus commentaries from all four original members of the group and original Kellogg's commercials aired during the show's original broadcast. 
It's all being done in celebration of the 50th Anniversary of the original casting call issued on September 8th, 1965 ... and Rhino promises all kinds of new, bonus surprises throughout their 50th anniversary year.
The BluRay edition will be released in January with a limited pressing of 10,000 copies.  (kk)
 
And, speaking of 50 Year Anniversaries ...
 
#50:   
Hey KK!
This is the Vibeman!
The 50th Anniversary of Davie Allan The Arrows is at least for us a time to know that the things we enjoyed of yesterday are still here among us today. There still is the celebration of keeping the dream alive and finding some joy in a form of music not everyone has embraced. Will they? We may never know. Will we? Better get it while the gettins' good!
 

 
re:  Eye Of The Tiger:   
Lots of fuss these past few days about Kim Davis playing Survivor's "Eye Of The Tiger" at her "release rally". Songwriters Jim Peterik and Frankie Sullivan were quick to point out that they did NOT authorize use of their song for this purpose ... nor does her stance (on refusing to issue gay marriage licenses) in any way reflect their views ... 
I have not authorized the use of Eye of the Tiger for use by Kim Davis and my publisher will issue a C&D. This does not reflect my views. 
-- Jim Peterik
Crain Chicago Business gave the event headline coverage on Wednesday ... and it was picked up by virtually every other kind of media, too, once the song's cowriters issued statements.  (Man, you just can't BUY publicity like this ... and this story was delivered free on a silver platter!)
"Eye of the Tiger" is meant to be motivational, but Survivor doesn't want its song to motivate anti-gay sentiments.    
Kim Davis, the Kentucky county clerk who has been the center of media attention after refusing to grant marriage licenses to same-sex couples in Rowan County, played the song yesterday at a rally alongside Mike Huckabee, and Survivor is not happy about it. Davis was jailed for her failure to issue the licenses and appeared at the rally in Grayson, Ky., following her release. 
"I was very surprised and dismayed at the misuse of the song I co-wrote with Frankie Sullivan for 'Rocky lll,' " he said. "The song has motivated thousands through the years to reach beyond their limits. Its use for the release of Kim Davis does not support my views or my politics. I have contacted my publishers to make sure this usage is stopped immediately."  
Jim Peterik, founder of the Chicago band and co-writer of the song made famous by "Rocky III," said in a statement to Billboard magazine that the band did not grant Davis the right to use the song at the rally.
Cowriter Frankie Sullivan made a similar statement on his Facebook Page ... 
NO! We did not grant Kim Davis any rights to use "My Tune -The Eye Of The Tiger." I would not grant her the rights to use Charmin! 
C'mom Mike, you are not The Donald but you can do better than that - 
See Ya really SoooooooonnnnnnN!!!!!! ...
Frankie Sullivan
 
re:  Eight Tracks:
>>>You know, I never had an eight track tape cartridge nor player?!  I skipped right over that media right to the Cassette Tape!  (Chuck Buell)
>>>Likewise ... I hated the way 8-tracks switched channels right in the middle of a song ... couldn't believe ANYBODY found that acceptable!!!  Yet all my friends had them and didn't seem to be bothered by this at all.  Cassettes were the ONLY way to go for me for a long, long time ... especially since I could now make my own to listen to in the car.  (kk)
Because Kent, they were the first way we could bring our favorites into the car with us ... pure and simple.  A battery run turn-table on a bumpy road?  Not going to work.  And we didn't accept the negatives of these 8 tracks for long, as cassettes came right behind.  The stereo system I bought in the mid 70's (and is still working) had all 4 possibilities:  turn-table, radio (AM/FM), 8-track and cassette.
Shelley
 
re:  This And That: 
Kent ...
9/11/1945 =  Happy Birthday Dennis Tufano.
Don't know what I'd do without Ron Smith's book "Eight Days A Week."
Frank B.
P.S. - 9/13/1944 = Happy Birthday Peter Cetera.
 
Speaking of Dennis Tufano, "The Buckinghams: The Complete Hit Singles" is available today.  We told you last week that we'd be running the complete, unedited, unabridged version of the disc's liner notes on October 1st ... and also that we had a copy to give away to a lucky Forgotten Hits Reader ... so if you'd like YOUR shot at a free copy, please drop us a line and let us know.  Simply put "Buckinghams CD" in your subject line and we'll enter your name in the drawing.
 
Here's one FH Reader who won't be entering for his chance to win a copy ...  
 
Music4Me says:
This is good or bad news, depending on your point of view: The new Buckinghams Complete Hit Singles (release date 9/11/15) on Varese Sarabande will be all stereo despite the actual singles in many cases being in mono. Carl Giammarese, the group's guitarist / lead singer, has voiced his disappointment with the stereo single mixes, saying they sounded watered down and lacked the punch of the original 45's. He has stated that he has offered to be involved in the mixing / mastering to get the sound right but has never been given the opportunity. Word is also that Varese requested mono versions of a number of songs from CBS / Sony but were only given stereo versions to work with. Another chance to get it right goes by the wayside.
Personally, from what I heard of the stereo remixes, the mono versions should be better, unless you narrow the stereo versions, but I'm not sure digital alteration can't save the stereo versions. Not that I'd buy them ... Varese is okay, but you'll find a vinyl ripping CD tune now and then.  I don't think Carl was there when the music was recorded. As far as I can tell, others (studio musicians) played the music. I'm sure Sony will handle all audio work; this is typical.
You can tell some Columbia hits were remixed, like The Cyrkle ... their Turn Down Day includes a drum piece that was dismissed (when mixing) from the hit. Whoops! :)
Embarrassing moments on CD? A Rhino - Dick Bartley release (DJ I admired) had a (debut) stereo version of "You're The One" by We Five, but missing some overdubbing, but what someone set free in public domain was more complete stereo.
Best,
John
I'm guessing you mean either "You're The One" by The Vogues or "You Were On My Mind" by We Five in your above statement ... not sure which, but both of those at least make sense ... "You're The One" by We Five does not.
As for the new Buckinghams CD, I've listened to it and it sounds pretty good to me.  It's a short set (just 15 tracks), but all the hits (and non-hit single releases) are here.
If I have an objection to anything it's the fact that they used the "radio edit" for "Susan", with the "offensive" (to the band, anyway) psychedelic interlude deleted.  For me, this doesn't work within the context of "The Complete Hit Singles" banner because this version was never released as a single ... you couldn't buy it that way nor do I recall ever hear it being played that way (in its edited form) at the time.  (In fact, I didn't hear the "radio edit" until probably twenty years later ... but apparently some radio stations WERE playing it at the time, despite the fact that it wasn't available commercially.)  I would have preferred that they released the REAL single (as advertised) and, if they truly felt it necessary to showcase the edited version, included that as a bonus track instead.  (Just my opinion ... at least this way the disc lives up to its title.)
I asked Cary Mansfield of Varese Vintage and Clark Besch, who helped to assemble the new collection (as well as write the liner notes) about this decision but never heard back from either of them on this topic.  (kk)
 
And, speaking of some of our Chicagoland Local Heroes ...
 
This Sunday, September 13th, our FH Buddy Dean Milano will be hosting a fund-raising event honoring Mitch Aliotta of Aliotta, Haynes and Jeremiah, who passed away a couple of months ago. 
On Sunday, September 13th, c’mon down to WIRE for a party in honor of Mitch Aliotta, who passed away recently. 
He left behind a lot of medical expenses and his friends are getting a benefit together to help with the costs. 
I’ll be stage managing the event and I’ll also perform a special song. The event starts at 6:00, I’ll be on at 10:30 and the address in Berwyn is 6815 W. Roosevelt Road. 
We’ll see ya there!
Dean
 
 
 
More on this from Chicagoland Radio and Media ...
 
A benefit concert is taking place this weekend to help out the family of the late Chicago born musician Mitch Aliotta. The concert will feature numerous acts with some very special guest appearances. Emceeing the whole event will be WDRV-FM / 97.1 The Drive overnight DJ Greg Easterling.
Mitch Aliotta is best known as the bass player and founder of the Chicago area band Aliotta Haynes Jeremiah, famed for their iconic hit "Lake Shore Drive." Prior to his time in that group, he played with Rotary Connection, which featured Minnie Riperton on lead vocals. Aliotta passed away on July 21st at the age of 71 due to complications from diabetes and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
Unfortunately, Aliotta's passing left his family with a large amount of debt. His brother and some friends have put together a benefit show to help Aliotta's immediate family out with the final expenses.
Called "The Party for Mitch Aliotta," the concert will feature at least five bands: Omega 3 (which includes Mitch's brother Ted Aliotta), Maggie Aliotta & The Mighty Fines (Mitch's daughter), Doubleplay, Rough Draft, and Kurt Michaels' Continuum (KMC) featuring Alain Quinn.
Among the special guests expected to participate are Jimy Sohns of The Shadows of Knight and Ray Graffia of The New Colony Six.
WDRV-FM's overnight voice Greg Easterling will serve as the emcee for the entire evening. Also appearing will be another Chicago radio veteran, WERV-FM / 95.9 The River's afternoon host Mitch Michaels.
"The Party for Mitch Aliotta" will take place this Sunday, September 13th at Wire, located at 6815 W. Roosevelt Road in Berwyn. (Mitch Aliotta grew up in Berwyn.) Tickets to attend this special event are only $15, which can be purchased in advance at this link
HERE. Ticket proceeds will go toward helping Mitch Aliotta's family.
For those unable to attend but who wish to help out, a GoFundMe page has been set up for the Mitch Aliotta Memorial Fund. That page can be found
HERE.
 
On October 30, Eagle Rock Entertainment and Zappa's Honker Home Video will issue the never-before-released Frank Zappa’s Roxy: The Movie on DVD & Blu-Ray with an exclusive Soundtrack included. 
A Frank Zappa show goes way beyond a mere concert – it is an experience … a flight of improvisation, musicianship, and cerebral cynicism.  An unparalleled Composer and Guitarist, Zappa redefined rock n roll paradigms by introducing  into the mix his favorite influences from classical music, jazz, blues, doo-wop, traditional and non-traditional music.  And he did so with unparalleled humor and audacity.  But it was the music itself that influened generations of musicians and, quite frankly, blew minds.  Roxy: The Movie, filmed over three nights in December, 1973, at the Roxy Theatre in Hollywood, CA, is a powerful display of this experience, and reveals what made him such a pioneering musical revolutionary. 
Right from the top of the program, the film exudes the essence of Zappa, as we only see a dark room with a single light, and we hear him commiserating with the audience, as he stalls for time because of technical snafus that would ultimately force the film into hibernation for decades (make that eras in musical terms) while advancement in technology aligned allowing the Zappa Family Trust to bring this project to a patient and deserving audience.  The curtain goes up and the magic unravels to reveal “Cosmic Debris” and we are up and away with one of the most enduring band line-ups under Frank Zappa's leadership.
“Frank broke all sound barriers in Music and pushed musical event horizons to educate and entertain his audiences so they could experience real possibilities on a contemporary music stage – all without taking himself seriously.  He always said he had “something for everyone from 8 to 13.”  Being a mom I can tell you, that is when your imagination is wide open and some of those ideas stay fixed and expandable in time and space forever,” says Gail Zappa.
"I'm beyond thrilled that Roxy The Movie is finally going to be available. It took a herculean effort to bring it to life. So much love, time, energy and attention to detail went into its resurrection. This movie rocks so hard, I think both old and new fans will agree,” says Ahmet Zappa. “Enjoy!"
Written, directed, conducted & performed by Frank Zappa, as well as originally  produced by him, all these 40 years later Gail Zappa, Ahmet Zappa, and Jeff Stein, bring you now Roxy: The Movie.  Starring Zappa, The Mothers, and the Music and the Musicianship.  The film contains some of Zappa's most challenging instrumentals, expertly executed by himself (lead guitar, vocals),  George Duke (keyboards, synthesizer, vocals), Bruce Fowler (trombone), Napoleon Murphy Brock (flute, tenor saxophone, vocals), Tom Fowler (bass guitar), Ralph Humphrey (drums), Chester Thompson (drums), and Ruth Underwood (percussion).
Released just in time for Frank Zappa's favorite holiday, Halloween.  Roxy: The Movie is a stunning homage to one of unpopular music's most fearless musicians.
Click here to view trailer: https://youtu.be/YPIwdlnoKyA
 
To my friends and fans in South Florida -- or those who may be in South Florida next month:
I've been invited to be October's featured act at THE ACOUSTIC UNDERGROUND CONCERT SERIES
As some of you may know, The A.U.C.S. is the longest-running acoustic concert series in Florida and I'm honored to have been asked.
What's more, it's being held at one of my favorite Florida venues: The Luna Star.
It's the first Saturday of the month.
Here are the details:
Your attendance is mandatory.
Also notice that I'll be doing Micheal Stock's FOLK AND ACOUSTIC radio program on the Sunday before the show (Sept. 27). You can here it online by going to WLRN.org and clicking "Listen Live."
Yers,
Bob
 
From your favorite commercials piece ... #37 - 7-Up ...
If you're interested, I remember the rest of the lyrics to that 7 Up jingle.
After "it's the light shining over the dark" it goes --
"And in this time of over complication there's Un ... there's Un. If what you want is simplification come Un, come Un ... Un for all, all for Un, 7 Up the Un Cola.
Alan  
 
Kent ...
A new Johnny Cash Documentary will air on the anniversary of his death (9/12)http://tasteofcountry.com/johnny-cash-american-rebel/Frank B.
That would be tomorrow, airing on CMT.  Check your local listings.  (kk)
 
Hi Kent,
I loved your post of Roy Orbison’s “Ride Away.”
A couple of days ago, I saw another odd use of an oldie in a commercial: Amazon Prime is using Lee Marvin’s “Wand’rin’ Star.” When was the last time anyone heard that one?!
- Charlie
Perhaps never!  (lol)  You've gotta wonder about the creative minds behind the sources for some of this inspiration.  The Roy Orbison tune WAS a hit ... Top 20 in fact ... but over the past 50 years only so many songs by so many artists continue to exist ... the rest are put out to pasture, many forevermore.  Resurrecting this one was a REAL surprise ... but the Lee Marvin tune?  How many people are even going to know what that is?  Kind of like the Roger Miller / Robin Hood ditty that proved to be so popular a few months back!  (kk)
 
Kent ...
Maybe one of your reader's can answer my questions.
Every time I go to Larry's Pub I play the Jukebox.
Every time I play the Jukebox I play "In The Still Of The Night" by The Five Satins.
A couple of weeks ago I found that the song was removed from the Jukebox.
They tell me that the Jukebox company lost the rights to this song.
I think they made enough money just from my plays to want to keep the song in the Jukebox.
Another time I'm at Larry's Pub and, since I was wearing my "GoodFellas" T-Shirt, I thought it would be clever of me to play the soundtrack from the "GoodFellas" movie.
I attempt to do that. I'm able to play 11 of the 12 songs. For some unknown reason "Sincerely" by the Moonglows isn't there and I'm wondering why?
Frank B.
Wow, this one's going to have to be answered by someone far more savvy than me! (lol)  I didn't know you could lose "jukebox rights" ... or that if an entire album was offered as a choice and listed 12 songs, it would play anything less than that.  Anybody out there have any thoughts or ideas on this one?  (kk)
 
Some new thoughts on the "evolution of radio" ...
 
Here's an article forwarded by our friend Larry White, who will be returning to Buffalo in the near future.  I expect we all agree with Dick Taylor's thoughts.

Wednesday, September 9, 2015

Jeff Lynne - Live In Hyde Park DVD Concert Review

Two word review:   

Fucking Incredible!!!

Sorry, but no matter how many times I've tried to rephrase it, I just HAVE to go with that ...

Because I must have said it out loud at least 24 times during the viewing of this brand new release (available this Friday, September 11th, on DVD and BluRay disc through Eagle Rock Entertainment.)

It had been about 28 years since Jeff Lynne last performed before a live audience ... and over 50,000 fans showed up in London's Hyde Park last year on September 14th to mark his triumphant return to the stage.

Despite the long hiatus, I am pleased to report that Lynne is in absolutely top form for this show.  (A couple of years ago, he went into the studio to re-record a number of ELO's hits that he thought he could do better today than when he first waxed them back in the '70's and early '80's ... usually a scary move in an artist's career ... but Jeff proves in this concert setting that he can still do it all ... his music sounds as good as you've ever heard it ... all the more impressive and amazing considering his long lay-off from the performing stage.)

We've seen a lot of concerts in our day, both live and on disc ... and this one absolutely HAS to rank amongst the greatest of all time.  (Included in this batch would have to be the absolute perfect reproduction of their studio sound presented live on stage by The Eagles ... three INCREDIBLE performances put on by The Alan Parsons Live Project the past two years at The Arcada Theatre right here in St. Charles ... Elvis live at The Chicago Stadium in 1972, where you could feel the pure electricity shoot through the audience the moment he took the stage ... the first Wings Over America show, also held at The Chicago Stadium, in 1976 ... the love and respect The Wondermints have shown the music of Brian Wilson ... and one-of-a-kind filmed events like Woodstock, The Concert For Bangla Desh. The Bee Gees "One Night Only" at the MGM Grand Hotel in Las Vegas, The Beach Boys' 50th Anniversary Concert and any one of the Simon and Garfunkel's reunion concerts ... goosebump inducing moments throughout as some of the greatest artists in rock and roll history have proven why they have earned the right to be ranked among the highest echelon of the elite.)

Eagle Rock has done an EXCEPTIONAL job of capturing this one time event held last September in London's Hyde Park as part of their "Festival In A Day" ... beautifully filmed, showing off the illuminated stage with all its rotating psychedelic back-drops in all its colorful glory, awesome close-ups of Lynne and the band as they work their way through a collection of fifteen ELO (and one Traveling Wilburys) classics ... and crystal clear sound throughout of pure start-to-finish pop perfection.  (OK, there are a couple of sour notes during the break on "Turn To Stone" ... but we'll forgive those in a heartbeat due to the absolute perfection in which everything else was rendered on that incredible evening, September 14th, 2014.) Fucking incredible!   

Lynne's long-time ELO partner in crime, keyboardist Richard Tandy (42 years and counting) was on hand, clearly having the time of his life up there on stage, performing these songs again, along with The BBC Concert Orchestra, who were nothing short of amazing to watch.  (You just know these folks had the music charts plopped in front of them and, as highly skilled classical musicians, were able to play the notes on the page exactly as written ... but they, too, had to realize that they were taking part in a history-making moment when they heard the building sounds around them, complimenting each and every nuance as they effortlessly switched from bowing to plucking to sweeping in perfect unison, accentuating all of the fine little details that make the music of Jeff Lynne and The Electric Light Orchestra so powerful, overwhelming and unique.)  A more perfect mix of rock and classical music may have never taken place. 

This entire  ensemble was augmented by solo violinist Chereene Allen, who featured some AMAZING solo passages (and for whom Frannie now admits to possessing a powerful "girl crush" ... she described the concert as "goosebumps on top of goosebumps") ... and it was truly a moving and exciting, emotional experience from start to finish.  (We've already watched it three times!!!)

The hit list?  Nearly all of the biggies are here ... "All Over The World" (from Xanadu), "Evil Woman", "Ma-Ma-Ma Belle", "Showdown", "Livin' Thing", "Strange Magic", "10538 Overture" (ELO's first UK Hit), "Can't Get It Out Of My Head", "Sweet Talkin' Woman" (perfection), "Turn To Stone", "Steppin' Out", "Handle With Care" (The Traveling Wilburys hit, of which Lynne was a member), "Don't Bring Me Down", "Rock And Roll Is King", "Telephone Line" and "Mr. Blue Sky", the ultimate show-stopping closer.  If forced to list some surprising omissions, they'd have to be "Do Ya" (a hit twice, first for The Move and then for ELO) and "Roll Over Beethoven" (the song that launched the band here in America and defined their unique blend of rock and classical music ... how on EARTH have these guys been overlooked by The Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame?!?!?) ... and, for selfish reasons, a couple of personal favorites, "Calling America" and "Four Little Diamonds".

And, as if capturing this incredible concert and making it available to the public wasn't enough, the disc also includes an interview with Jeff Lynne about his music (and what it was like taking to the stage again after all this time) as well as the top-notch BBC Documentary "Mr. Blue Sky: The Story Of Jeff Lynne and ELO", which I have been searching for ever since I first saw it broadcast on Palladium over a year ago ... ALL packaged together on one remarkable disc ... fucking incredible!

Again, the BlueRay / DVD disc officially hits the streets THIS FRIDAY, September 11th ... you'd do well to preorder it NOW ... and start preparing yourselves immediately to be blown away by this remarkable concert.

There was talk of Jeff taking his show on the road, including a tour of America ... but, as of yet, I can't find any show dates listed.  (This would have to be a VERY expensive concert to take on the road ... so much so that it may never actually happen ... so do yourself a favor and grab this DVD / BluRay Disc NOW so you can enjoy the concert experience at London's Hyde Park from last year.)

I promise you, you won't be disappointed.


Fucking Incredible! 

kk
Kent Kotal
Forgotten Hits

Tuesday, September 8, 2015

Tuesday This And That

Kent ...  
Ron Smith's Labor Day 500 ... 
http://www.oldiesmusic.com/500-15.pdf  
My first pick checked in at # 11.  
Frank B.  
Yep, we ran a sneak peek of the list on Friday  ... I sent it to a few radio folks on the list suggesting that just maybe perhaps THESE were the songs most folks wanted to hear on the radio ... and the only response I got said "We play most of these".  
Ron mentioned to me that the number of Elvis titles were down (probably because radio only recognizes three or four of his 200 hits these days ... even Billboard Magazine has eliminated 30+ legitimate hits with their new "Hot 100" mentality.)  Meanwhile, Ron also said that the number of Beach Boys tracks was UP this year (possibly because of the success of the new Brian Wilson piopic, Brian's new solo album, and extensive touring by both Brian and his band and the Mike Love / Bruce Johnston version of The Beach Boys).  Meanwhile, "Hey Jude" seems to have permanently placed itself in the #1 position ... this is its TENTH consecutive year of coming in at #1!  
I really haven't had time to fully scrutinize the list yet, but I'm willing to bet that there are AT LEAST 50 GREAT choices on here that would make EXCELLENT adds to ANY radio play list ... which would be immediately noticed (and appreciated) by their listeners.  Unfortunately I'm not sure that ANYBODY in radio programming is mentally capable of seeing outside the box anymore.  Radio has been programmed with blinders on for SO long now, that  it seems as though any and all sense of creativity has been thrown by the wayside.  They've REALLY dumbed it down.  And think about it for a second ... how hard is it to program these days anyway?  As a general rule, every station in town just says "Well, this is easy ... I'll just play the exact same songs that THEY'RE playing ... it must be working right?  Otherwise everybody wouldn't be doing it!!!"  
That's why stations like Me-TV-FM and Rewound Radio provide such HUGE breath of fresh air ... both stations have been stepping WAY outside the box by daring to remember ... and then PLAY ... the music we all grew up with, without any reservations or apologies.  And listeners are noticing and responding.  Me-TV-FM reminds its listeners "It's All Memorable Music" ... which Rewound Radio takes the approach of "It Doesn't Matter How Old It Is ... It's How GOOD It Is".  We commend BOTH stations for doing their part in making radio interesting and exciting again.  With a little more "appointment radio" programming, they can lock their audiences up even further by providing "can't miss" features ... in which we regard I really believe we can help.  (For the record, I've been kicking around a variety of different ideas with each of them ... and am still hopeful that we can finalize something soon that would allow Forgotten Hits to continue OUR crusade to keep this music alive by "partnering" with radio stations who can "bring it to the people" on a regular basis ... so stay tuned for more details on all of that!)  
We've been saying it for fifteen years now ... put it out there and your audience will embrace it ... and good word of mouth will brings others to your station as well.  Listeners are tired of being insulted by programmers who honestly believe that programming any more than 200-300 is beyond the listeners' comprehension level.  It's a demeaning and insulting attitude to take with the very people you are most dependant on in order to survive.  It may have taken fifteen years to get here ... but the radio revolution is FINALLY on!!!  (kk)  

Speaking of holiday weekend radio, WLS-FM borrowed a page from The Drive's successful playbook and featured an A to Z weekend ... only WLS played 'em down A to Z by ARTIST rather than song title. This gave them several opportunities to work their way through (in their words) their "extensive playlist" ... which typically during the week seems to include about 200 - 300 songs.  
However, this weekend they dug deep and featured songs and artists you NEVER hear on the station.  (One set included John Denver, long "banned" from our local airwaves until Me-TV-FM resurrected his music with Chicago listeners, preceded by "Israelites" by Desmond Dekker and the Aces, a song the station probably hasn't played since 1969!)  
Maybe somebody over at WLS is listening (???)  Several weeks ago after the long-overdue ouster of Jan Jeffries, we suggested that the station embrace its incredible legacy and play the hits THEY helped to create back in the '60's and '70's.  (Again, a little "friendly competition" from Me-TV-FM couldn't hurt either, right?)  Right now they're simply playing the exact same music as at least four or five other stations in town ... step outside the box and reclaim your rightful spot on the dial!  Kudos to a valiant effort this weekend ... now let's keep it going! (kk)   

EXAMPLES:  This weekend we heard SO many songs and artists that aren't part of their normal, day-to-day "Classic Hits" play list ... so it's no coincidence that they're expanding their horizon a little bit.  During random tune-in's I heard songs I'm sure the station hasn't played in DECADES by the likes of Rocky Burnett, Shalamar, Silver Convention, the aforementioned John Denver and Desmond Dekker and the Aces, Chris Rea, Suzi Quatro, Pacific Gas and Electric, Mouth and MacNeal, Malo and Chuck Mangione ... this is NOT your normal WLS-FM diet by ANY stretch of the imagination ... which is VERY encouraging news for those of us who grew up with the station ... and remember what it USED to be ... back in the days when it was an industry LEADER rather than simply a follower playing the exact same song mix as every other radio station in town.  (kk) 



When they hit the "U's" on Sunday Night they even played USA For Africa's "We Are The World".  Despite what a HUGE hit that record was , you virtually NEVER hear it on the radio ... yet, if you're like me, you can picture each and every vocalist take their turn from the original video.  How interesting to have TWO radio stations in town play the unexpected this long weekend!  (kk)



Kent ...  
Elvis Is Back!  
According to Billboard Magaine, Elvis earns his 53rd Ttop 40 album on the Billboard Top 200 as the new compilation "Elvis Forever" debuts at #11.  
The set is sold exclusively through the U.S. Postal Service, and is Presley's highest charting album since 2003, when "Elvis: 2nd to None" peaked at #3.  
The new album was released in conjunction with the promotion of Presley's new commemorative stamp.  
Among all acts with the most Top 40 charting albums, Presley remains in second place behind Frank Sinatra, with 57.  
Frank B.  
Well, I bought it ... along with a few blocks of the collectible stamps (packaged neatly to look like an old 45 record sleeve).  I'll probably use some of them but then put a couple of sheets away as collectors' items.  (I did the same thing with the first edition of the Elvis stamp many years ago ... but hid them so well I'll be darned if I can find them today!!!  lol)  
It's amazing how many times RCA/BMG has gotten me to buy the exact same Elvis music I already own ... but a collectible package like this was just too good to pass up.  (There was a time when I would have bought a dozen copies and then put them away for resale years later, still sealed and never opened ... but I don't know if I'll live long enough to see these ever hit their collectors' market value!)  Still, the CD sounds great ... but they missed a GREAT opportunity, as you pointed out a few weeks ago, Frank. Yes, "Return To Sender" is on there ... but what about "US Male"???  I believe they could have used you on their creative team for this one!  (kk)  


Hi Kent,   
I got to see the Happy Together Tour this past Monday, August 31.  
I thought I'd give my thoughts.  
First the good:  I thought that for the price $21 a ticket (plus the cost of state fair admission tickets) here in MN it was a steal. The audience loved the show and sang along to everything, which shows just how big a roll music played in our lives in the 60's and 70's. Kudos for the production folks that keep this show moving along so that there were no long gaps between acts.  
Now on to the acts themselves ...  
I think by now most people know the songs done by the individual acts in the show so I won't bother with that. The Grass Roots did a great job carrying on the Roots' legacy despite the fact that none of them are originals. The Cowsills were my favorite ... lots of fun on stage, they did all their songs well and didn't sound like they were reciting from a script as some of the other performers did. They came out and visited with the audience after the whole show was over and they couldn't have been nicer people. I got to tell Susan that I had a huge crush on her when I was 10. Come to think of it, I still do.  
The Buckinghams were good, but even if you're OK as performers and have songs as good as theirs, you should be fine.  
The Association weren't as bad as I expected, given some of the reviews, but they were up and down. It seemed as though a couple of the guys weren't in the best of health, but when they hit the harmonies quite often it all came together. Other times not so much. They did seem like they were really enjoying themselves.  
On to Mark Lindsay. Definitely a seasoned performer. He was great with the audience, but vocally he seemed to be phoning it in. He seemed to still have a good range, but just never seemed to go for anything that would even stretch his abilities even a little.  
I actually went to the show to see him and the Cowsills and I was disappointed in the Lindsay set since back in the day he was such a kick butt singer. I know he's older and didn't expect him to sound like he did in 1966, but just seemed like he was ready to be done with the tour when he was singing.  
Lastly, The Turtles (Flo and Eddie). I've never seen them before, but I expected them to be a bit on the wackie side, and they were. I don't think they hold their tunes in as high esteem as we do. Too bad. They really had some great pop tunes. They really rush through the songs. It would be nice to have them do them with a bit more attention to detail. My final thoughts ... (yes there's more!)  
The band as a whole did a great job of harmonies and backing people up. It would be nice if they really went back to the original recordings and made more of an attempt to capture those original sounds.  (That's more of an opinion than a criticism.)  It also would be nice if they had real horns on those songs that had them instead of the not so great horn patch on a keyboard.  
They could just have charts and hire horn players in each town to keep the cost down. Particularly on the Buckinghams tunes it would be helpful. The Grass Roots tunes would have benefited by live horns as well.  
Lastly the sound man wasn't very on top of things when I saw them. Seems to me that by the end of the tour he should have it down. Many times the backing vocals weren't loud enough, and other times they were louder than the lead vocal. That being said, he could have had an off night. Again, for $21 it was still a steal. I hope that Flo and Eddie take it seriously and don't just think of it as a money machine, if in fact it is.  
Bill  
Well, the tour is officially over ... overall good reviews from everybody that we heard of, with many of the same complaints ... no Grass Roots original members, faulty harmonies from The Association, too short a song set by ALL of the artists (but The Turtles in particular as headliners), The Cowsills (and in many cases, Mark Lindsay) regularly stole the show, and The Turtles' set was far too short and played strictly for laughs rather than making any attempt to give us the feel-good essence of the music.   
I'm sure next year's line-up will be announced shortly (and I don't really expect any major shake-ups despite numerous suggestions of artists from our readers).  Hey, it's still an AWFUL lot of hits for your money ... every one of these records provided the soundtrack to our lives ... so for that we can and should be grateful.  Maybe next year ALL of the artists should consider how much this music truly means to their fans ... and then when those fans shell out that money to come hear all of their favorites again, provide a show with a bit more enthusiasm and appreciation.  Thanks to the fans, ALL of these guys have been able to enjoy 50-year careers, doing what they love doing best.  And, if you're only going to get 15-20 per set, make it a KILLER set, challenging the next artist to "beat this!" every time you go on stage.  I guarantee you it'll raise the energy level on BOTH sides of the stage.  
That's my two cents for Happy Together, 2015.  Carl Giammarese emailed me last week that while the tour was LOADS of fun and he's sad that it's over, he really can't wait to come home and enjoy a little rest and relaxation, too, before heading out on the road again with the full line-up of The Buckinghams.  GREAT time for this new "Complete Singles" CD to come out from Varese Vintage ... fans should be pumped to add all these chart hits to their collection!  (kk)     

WOWZA!  I have perused, know what I want to go back and read first, and then return to re-read and finish on today's Friday Flash!  If you do NOT post anything new before Tuesday, I can do this ... 
Shelley    

This week's Friday Flash was loaded with so much good stuff that there was something for everyone!   
Thanks for all you to keep this thing alive and thriving!
David Lewis   



You can preorder this disk here:    
http://www.amazon.com/Carl-Wilson-2015-Iconoclassic-Remaster-Wilson/dp/B014JC1A7Q/ref=sr_1_1?s=music&ie=UTF8&qid=1441119405&sr=1-1&keywords=carl+wilson   

Unrequested Anecdotes, Chapter 23 
"Happy" was cut in in France in '71 during the "Exile On Main Street" sessions.  The basic track is Keith on guitar, bass and vocals, producer Jimmy Miller on drums and Bobby Keys on baritone sax.  It was supposed to be a demo, but the feel was so good they simply sweetened the track with Mick Taylor on slide guitar and Mick Jagger on harmony vocals.  It's the only Rolling Stones Top 40 hit with Keith on lead vocals.   
Live performance is from the film, "Ladies & Gentlemen-- the Rolling Stones."  This is just so damn good:  
https://www.youtube.com/watch?list=SRthe%20rolling%20stones%20happy&t=156&v=VSyNUAzPofI  
Here's Keith in a great extended interview plugging his book a few years back -- dispells all the drunken, loutish images from his heroin / Jack days.  Even then, when I interviewed him in '78 ("Some Girls"), he was funny and sharp.  Going into that interview was one of the few times that I was really intimidated ahead of time -- didn't know what to expect.  But he couldn't have been nicer to me.    
I told him about the Knack who were really hot in L.A. at the time, playing the Starwood a few nights later.  I was at the show.  Someone came up behind me and put his hand on my shoulder and it was Keith.  "Thanks for the tip, mate.  They're still mucking out their stall a bit, but they do a good set."  He went backstage and talked to the band which, frontman Doug Fieger told me later, just floored them.  One can only imagine what a Keith visit and endorsement must have meant to them. 
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oT-ArKNdtKY  
A world without Keith someday is hard to imagine. 
Scott Paton    

Take a Four and a Half Minute Break and  Check This Out! The Eight Track Museum  
CB (which also stands for "Cartridge Boy!")  
PS: You know, I never had an eight track tape cartridge nor player?!  I skipped right over that media right to the Cassette Tape! 
Chuck Buell 
Likewise ... 
I hated the way 8-tracks switched channels right in the middle of a song ... 
Couldn't believe ANYBODY found that acceptable!!! 
Yet all my friends had them and didn't seem to be bothered by this at all.  
Cassettes were the ONLY way to go for me for a long, long time ... especially since I could now make my own to listen to in the car.  
kk     

Oldies rule in Milwaukee   
Hi Kent, 
It seems that oldies radio is flexing it’ muscles in Milwaukee. Oldies 95.7 (renamed WRIT a few years ago in honor of the great AM station of the 60’s) was once again number 1 in Milwaukee radio for the second quarter in a row. AND, Scott Shannon’s True Oldies Channel is now on AM 1290 and FM 100.3 in the Milwaukee area. This is a great addition to Milwaukee radio. 
Bob Verbos  
New Berlin, WI 
PS - To the recently raised question “Whatever happened to Sheena Easton?”, she still tours on a limited basis. Sheena is still in good voice and is still a looker. I last saw her a couple years ago at the local casino theater and she put on a great show, featuring many of her hits. Sheena is also very skilled at playful, humorous banter with the audience, and likes to make reference to her hot, sexy image of the 1980’s. Her website lists her upcoming gigs. 
One of which just happens to be at The Arcada Theatre on November 6th.  (She played at the Gay Pride Festival here a few years ago and sounded great ... but with half a million people there, you could barely get near the stage to catch a glimpse.  However, I always found her music somewhat appealing, especially when compared to much of the other '80's techno stuff.)  kk    

On October 23, 2015, Eagle Rock Entertainment Will Release LYNYRD SKYNYRD (Pronouced 'LÄ•h-'nérd 'Skin-'nérd) & Second Helping – Live From Jacksonville At The Florida Theatre  
~ On DVD, Blu-ray, and Digital Formats ~ Available as DVD + 2 CD exclusively at Walmart ~



New York, NY (September 2, 2015)— On October 23 2015, Eagle Rock Entertainment will issue the simultaneous release of Lynyrd Skynyrd’s Pronounced 'LÄ•h-'nérd 'Skin'nérd & Second Helping – Live From Jacksonville At The Florida Theatre on DVD, Blu-ray, and Digital Formats. This will also be released as DVD+2CD set exclusively at Walmart. [MSRP $14.98 DVD, $19.88 DVD+2CD, $19.98 Blu-ray]. 
Recorded this year, this release captures the legendary Lynyrd Skynyrd performing their first two studio albums, Pronounced 'LÄ•h-'nérd 'Skin-'nérd and Second Helping, live in their entirety for the first time, at two specially staged concerts at the Florida Theatre in their hometown of Jacksonville, Florida.  
Pronounced 'LÄ•h-'nérd 'Skin-'nérd was released in 1973 and includes “I Ain’t The One,” “Gimme Three Steps,” “Tuesday’s Gone,” and the seminal “Free Bird.” Second Helping was released the following year and includes “Workin’ For MCA,” “Swamp Music,” “Call Me The Breeze,” and the classic southern rock anthem “Sweet Home Alabama.” 
The shows captured on Pronounced 'LÄ•h-'nérd 'Skin-'nérd & Second Helping – Live From Jacksonville At The Florida Theatre represent a special occasion for both Lynyrd Skynyrd and their fans, as the band performed tracks they’d never or rarely played live before along with classic songs that are an essential part of any Lynyrd Skynyrd live show. 
With the Bonus Features offering a special created behind-the-scenes with Lynyrd Skynyrd section, this release offers nearly two hours of peerless musical entertainment.  

For a sneak peak, check out “Gimme Three Steps”:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OcDT-0XkUCc&feature=youtu.be   

Band line-up:   Lynyrd Skynyrd  
Gary Rossington - Guitar 
Johnny Van Zant - Lead Vocals 
Rickey Medlocke - Guitar 
Michael Cartellone - Drums 
Mark Matejka - Guitar 
Peter Keys - Keyboards 
Johnny Colt - Bass Guitar  

HONKETTES  
Dale Krantz Rossington - Background Vocals 
Carol Chase - Background Vocals  

ADDITIONAL MUSICIANS  
Jim Horn - Alto Sax 
Paul Jackson - Trumpet 
Myles Moore - Baritone Sax 
Nick Campbell - Percussion 
Steve ‘Boxcar’ Traum – Harmonica   

TRACK LISTING  
1) I Ain’t The One  
2) Tuesday’s Gone 

3) Gimme Three Steps  
4) Simple Man 
5) Things Goin’ On 
6) Mississippi Kid  
7) Poison Whiskey  
8) Free Bird   
9) Sweet Home Alabama*  
10) I Need You  
11) Don’t Ask Me No Questions   
12) Workin’ For MCA   
13) The Ballad Of Curtis Loew   
14) Swamp Music   
15) Needle And The Spoon   
16) Call Me The Breeze 
* Track One of CD2 format  

Catch LYNYRD SKYNYRD on tour this fall:  
September 11 and 12– Lincoln City, OR – Chinook Winds Casino 
September 15 – Saratoga, CA – The Mountain Winery September 17 – Jackson, CA – Jackson Rancheria Casino & Hotel 
September 18 – Pomona, CA – La County Fairgrounds September 19 – Tucson, AZ – Anselmo Valencia Amphitheater September 20 – Scottsdale, AZ – Talking Stick Resort & Casino 
September 25 – Lewisville, TX – 2015 Western Days September 26 – Houston, TX – Sam Houston Race Park October 1 – Seviersville, TN – Smokes Stadium 
October 2 – Nashville, TN – Ascend Amphitheater 
October 3 – Muncie, IN – Emens Auditorium 
October 4 – Louisville, KY – Louder Than Life Music Festival November 7 – Montgomery, AL – Alabama National Fair December 5 – Mescalero, NM – Inn Of The Mountain Gods Casino






ORIGINAL FILLMORE POSTER ARTIST COMMISSIONED BY LIVE NATION TO CREATE AN EXCLUSIVE SOUVENIR POSTER COMMEMORATING SOLD-OUT OPENING NIGHT OF THE NEW PHILADELPHIA FILLMORE STARRING HALL & OATES 

http://click.icptrack.com/icp/relay.php?r=22732581&msgid=2300679&act=YIYQ&c=125369&destination=http://randexpr.com/clients.php?id=68

Original Fillmore Auditorium poster artist Bonnie MacLean, shown here in her suburban Philadelphia home studio with a first-run poster she created in the ‘60s for a concert with Vanilla Fudge and Blue Cheer, has been commissioned by Live Nation to create an exclusive souvenir poster featuring Hall & Oates to commemorate their Opening Night performance Oct. 1.

Photo credit: Randex Communication

Keepsake 1960s Inspired Poster Art Created by Philadelphia’s Bonnie MacLean, Former Wife of Legendary Concert Impresario Bill Graham,
to be Presented to All Concertgoers in Attendance  
Oct. 1   


PHILADELPHIA (Sept. 2, 2015) — The spectacular Philadelphia Fillmore, hailed as the “best live rock music venue in the United States,” has formed a uniquely special bond to the iconic legacy of the original Fillmore Auditorium in San Francisco after discovering an extraordinary link to the past in its own back yard. And the results will be unveiled on opening night as a treasured keepsake for everyone in attendance. To commemorate the sold-out Grand Opening concert Oct. 1 starring Hall & Oates, Live Nation has commissioned 1960s Fillmore poster artist Bonnie MacLean, a Philadelphia native and the onetime wife of legendary concert impresario and Fillmore Auditorium founder Bill Graham, to design a distinctive souvenir poster which will be handed out free to ticket-holders that evening.   “We are thrilled and privileged that Bonnie has come on board to exclusively lend her singular authenticity to the Fillmore Philadelphia,” said Michael Grozier, Sr. Vice President, House of Blues Entertainment. “We’ve gone to tremendous lengths to write a new chapter to Philadelphia’s proud musical heritage by honoring the legendary traditions of Fillmore music halls around the country, and we can’t wait to see what she creates not only for us, but also for the 2,500 patrons who will pack the house on Opening Night.”  
MacLean was among the driving forces behind the rise of the San Francisco rock music scene of the late '60s, with the success of the Fillmore Auditorium due in no small part to her groundbreaking posters promoting the venue's concert attractions. She moved back to the East Coast in 1972 and settled in rural Bucks County, PA, where she has been living ever since, painting nudes, landscapes and still lives in her converted barn studio. She remains best-known for her series of historical hand-drawn rock posters, among the most sought-after collectible poster art in rock. Some of MacLean’s posters sell today for as much as $10,000. 
“I’m quite pleased to be recognized by Live Nation as the person I was 50 years ago,” said MacLean. “The Fillmore Philadelphia will spread the joy of what used to be the most wonderful music venue around. Philadelphia, being a musical city, will enjoy it and appreciate it.” 
The Fillmore Auditorium, which first opened in San Francisco in 1965, is one of this country’s landmark performing stages. That Fillmore was the focal point of the psychedelic music scene during the 1960s and ‘70s, helping to launch the careers of iconic rock acts such as the Grateful Dead, Jimi Hendrix, Led Zeppelin, Santana, The Doors, The Allman Brothers Band, and many, many others which helped it grow into the legend it is today. 
MacLean, already married to Graham at the time, helped her then-husband launch the Fillmore Auditorium by joining the staff to collect tickets, pass out handbills, and count receipts. Her initial contribution as an artist was simply drawling lists of band lineups on the coming attractions board at the top of the stairs, before she eventually stepped in to create more than 30 posters for shows featuring the likes of the Jefferson Airplane, Pink Floyd, Cream, the Yardbirds, and numerous others.  
The opening of The Philly Fillmore marks the seventh Fillmore now open in the U.S., and the latest addition to a legendary group of music venues that traces its lineage to rock history’s golden era. The newest Fillmore is a major component in the continued revitalization of iconic Fishtown and is rising at one of the city’s historic addresses, the legendary Ajax Metal Factory. The building, at the intersection of Frankford Avenue and Richmond Street, is being transformed from a pounding WWI munitions machine constructed over 100 years ago into a beautiful, pounding music machine of a different sort, 2015 style, with a distinct Philly flair.  
More on the Philadelphia Fillmore at
www.thefillmorephilly.com  

Kent,  
Monday's posting of the Rolling Stones' tune reminded me that I haven't heard Don Covay's version from a year earlier in years ... thanks for reminding me to play his version this morning.  
Also in this weekend's FH, mention was made of Roy Orbison's MGM recordings in a boxed set. I noticed his RIDE AWAY came in at #22 on KIMN's survey. 
Hope you had a great Labor Day weekend. 
Larry Neal  
"Ride Away" probably hasn't been played on the radio in 50 years ... it simply wasn't that big or well-known a hit (#25 in Billboard) ... yet now you hear it nearly every single day as part of a Geico commercial.  Again, who would have EVER thought to resurrect THIS one for a current-day ad campaign???  (kk)






If you're a big "Ray Donovan" fan like we are, you are going to TOTALLY enjoy this new clip that Frannie found ...