Saturday, September 25, 2021

The Weekend Comments

Noted music journalist David Fricke conducted a great interview with the remaining Rolling Stones on the eve of their new tour … their first ever without Drummer Charlie Watts …

Mick, Keith, Ronnie Talk About Missing Charlie, and 2021 Tour | Best Classic Bands

Having now seen the final cut, Ringo Starr is calling the new Peter Jackson “Get Back” film “a six hour masterpiece.”  (I know I can’t wait to see it!!!)

It’ll premier on November 25th and run for three consecutive nights on Disney+.  (Wonder how many new subscribers THIS has generated?!?!)  kk

As many of you good folks will know, this Englishman has a special interest in Studio B in Nashville, especially regarding the musicians. 

Pat and I were fortunate enough to know Kittra Moore, who is married to the man The King Elvis Presley himself called The King!!! Sadly at the age of eighty nine, just weeks short of the big nine-0, the bass player extraordinaire ,who played on over 17,000 recordings, has joined Elvis.

Big Bob died on the 22nd of September. If you have any doubt about his class, just listen to Elvis singing Fever from the Elvis Is Back album, Roy Orbison’s Dream Baby or Roger Miller’s King of the Road.

I am told that at two o'clock in the morning the phone rang. Bob answered it and Roger Miller excitedly said, “Quick - I've got to record this song now.  Meet me at the studio.”

On his arrival, Bob asked “Where is everybody else?” and Roger said, “It’s just you and me” … hence why there is only a bass and a guitar on King of the Road.

It has always been a pleasure of mine to have met Bob and Kittra at their home in Nashville and we even enjoyed a meal there with them and the fact that I shook hands with the man who had on more than one occasion shaken the hand of Elvis has never been lost on me.

Sleep well, big man.
Geoff Lambert

More Moore here …

Bob Moore Dead: Legendary A-Team Bassist Was 88 | Billboard

(I had to be careful not to string THREE “mores” together … or everyone out there would have thought I was doing a piece on The Andrea True Connection!!!)  kk

That’s also Bob’s bass you hear playing on the hit recordings “Crazy” by Patsy Cline, “Help Me Make It Through the Night” by Sammi Smith, Kenny Rogers’ “The Gambler,” Brenda Lee's hits "I'm Sorry" and "Rockin' Around The Christmas Tree," the #1 Marty Robbins hit "El Paso," Conway Twitty's "Hello, Darlin'," Elvis’ hits "It's Now or Never," "Little Sister," "Are You Lonesome Tonight?" and hundreds of other recordings that changed the course of pop and country music.  (He even scored his OWN Top Ten Hit in 1961 with the instrumental hit “Mexico!”)

Most definitely a member of Nashville’s A-Team of studio musicians, Bob’s contribution to both country and pop music will live on forever.  (kk)

"Shakedown Cruise" is COOL, even if the story really isn't about what happens aboard one. The term officially refers to when a vessel is "broken in," but the song sounds more like a case of getting "Shanghaied." (Kids, look both of 'em up.) 

--Bob Frable


 

A #27 Hit in 1979 … when’s the last time you heard it?!?!?

(This is one of those that completely escapes your consciousness due to a COMPLETE lack of airplay SINCE 1979!)  kk

 

>>>The two (along with Nona Hendryx) first enjoyed success together back in 1962 as The Blue-Belles when their hit single “I Sold My Heart To The Junkman” climbed to #12 on the pop charts. (kk)

As noted in Joel Whitburn's Top Pop Singles book, "I Sold My Heart To The Junkman," while credited on the 45 to The Blue-Belles, was actually recorded by The Starlets, a completely different vocal group.

– Randy Price

I kinda thought I might get called out on that one.

The Blue-Belles were obviously recording at the same time, but I guess a label decision to put their name on this record caught everyone by surprise ... including both of the girl groups involved!

 

Here’s a brief description of what I found …

In their 16 years together, LaBelle developed from a fairly conventional Sixties Girl Group, complete with sequined gowns, buffants and polished choreography into a band with a unique space queen look, an idealistic political consciousness and an individual gospel tinged funky rock and roll sound. Yet they might not have had a career if it had not been for another group.

Around the same time that Patti LaBelle and the Blue-Belles were signed to Newton Records, another female quartet, The Starlets, were on tour due to the success of their single "Better Tell Him No." While in Philadelphia for some one nighters, they were convinced by Harold Robinson, a used car dealer, to come to his studio and record a few sides. Out of that session came "I Sold My Heart to the Junkman."

Whether the Blue Belles heard the recording before its release isn't known, but when Newton Records released the Starlets' recording in late 1961 / early 1962 the name on the label was The Blue-Belles. By June, the record was #15 Pop and #13 R & B, giving the Blue Belles their first hit without ever being in the studio.

It goes on to say …

Their first actual recording didn't fare as well. Their second "real" release, a ballad "Go On," gave an indication of things to come, and their harmonies on "Cool Water” indicated that they could sing better if given better material.

The Blue Belles’ third single of 1963 met those qualifications as Patti, through the melody of "Down the Aisle," accompanied by the Blue Belles' angelic sounding higher than high warbling went to #37 Pop and #14 R & B, setting the stage for the group to sing big ballads and old standards.

In January, 1964, they released Rodgers and Hammersteins' classic "You'll Never Walk Alone," which went to #34 on both the Pop and R & B charts. What "Down The Aisle did to establish the group, "You'll Never Walk Alone" did to establish Patti as one of the most powerful and distinctive vocalists ever.

--History Of Rock

 

>>>Neil Diamond’s “Solitary Man” had a similar fate … when first released by an unknown Neil Diamond, it stopped at #55.  But then, after Neil scored a dozen Top 40 Hits and jumped to Uni Records, Bang added some horns and rereleased “Solitary Man” in 1970, only to see it climb to #21.  (kk)

The 1970 single release of "Solitary Man" was the exact same version released on the Bang 45 in 1966. Later versions / mixes were LP tracks.

– Randy Price

 

In case someone didn't mention it yet …

The Moody Blues’ "Nights In White Satin" was first released in January, 1968. Scattered national airplay but a #5 hit on our man Clark Besch's fave station KLMS in April!

Original 1968 pressings show the writer credit incorrectly as “Redwave" (!) and play a shorter edit version.
It was then re-released in June/July of 1972 with the now-familiar longer version. 

Mike Markesich

And on rerelease it went all the way to #1.  (The initial single only managed a #93 showing in ’68, proving again that it was just YEARS ahead of its time.  The fact that The Moody Blues’ album “Days Of Future Passed” was recognized as revolutionary when it was first released in 1967 (completely eclipsed by “Sgt. Pepper” and even The Monkees’ 30-something week reign at the top of the album chart) only serves to further prove the point.  (kk)

 

>>>When I read your story yesterday that mentioned Alice Cooper, it reminded me of this pic from ad for a beer I never heard of, about 9 or 10 years ago.  Scary.  ;-)  Mike



Sol beer is a cheap Mexican import, kind of like a Corona knock off and is more prevalent in the Phoenix / Scottsdale area, which is where Alice lives. I had one at the Parada Del Sol Festival and would not go out of my way for another, although that is a good ad.

Robert Campbell

 

Point / Counterpoint … and then we’re done with this …

 

One aspect of Forgotten Hits that I enjoy is our ability as members to freely post our personal opinions as related to the subject at hand.  Unfortunately, the recent post by Mr. Paul Haney concerning me infers otherwise.

I was stating my OPINION ... a generic rendering of the folks who comprise the Billboard music chart staff as "a bunch of smarmy no-nuthins" when it comes to understanding pop music's past. Does this equate to a borderline libelous statement?

Um ... no - it is my opinion.

It is also my opinion,  Mr. Haney, that the nonchalant attitude you mentioned of "just ignore it" or "apples to oranges" brush-off is unacceptable as a qualified response to the way Billboard looks back at their comparisons regarding pop chart history. This is just what I was getting at with my original generic comment.

The political landscape we wallow in day after day and persistent influx of PC ideology is clouding a freedom that once existed here in the U.S.A.  Very sad.  I did not identify (or do I know) any person who happens to work in the Billboard chart department BY NAME.

I simply wrote my comment, based upon the lackadaisical (definition: carelessly lazy), "so what" attitude that permeates (some might even say "pollutes") a lot of the younger generation when it comes to examining history in a proper fashion to provide an accurate historical context of the subject.  Billboard Magazine commits (if I may employ modern vernacular) an EPIC FAIL here. 

I need not cite further … just re-read Kent's recent assessment in FH that are SPOT-ON.

It would be highly beneficial if SOMEBODY at Billboard addressed and fixed their recent published historical distortions. But, then again, does anyone employed there care enough?  I doubt it.

I'm only a year older than you, Mr. Haney, BTW. 

Mike Markesich

That’d be like asking The Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame to own up to the error of their ways for the past quarter century and make things right by way of a mass induction of all of those deserving artists who have been overlooked for so many years.  While we have been advocating this for just as long … a “catch-up” induction ceremony of some sort … it isn’t something that is ever likely to happen, no matter WHO they put in charge of this whole thing.

And honestly, it’s only going to get worse as more and more “new” acts become eligible for induction based on the 25 year rule.  (I ask again … what lasting impression or significant change or advancement did these artists make to even justify inclusion on the ballot?  And what will be the proven lasting power of most of these acts.  50+ years later The Guess Who are still a significant force in the history of classic rock … their catalog has lived on for decades and new fans are being won over on a daily basis as they discover this music for the first time.  (Not to mention the fact that The Rock Hall has been HIGHLY prejudicial when it comes to including Canadian acts inside their hallowed halls.)  At this rate, Drake will get in before The Guess Who do!  And that’s just a flat out insult to guys like Randy Bachman and Burton Cummings (not to mention a complete outrage to ANY fan of rock and roll, all of whom know better when it comes to this band’s worthiness.)

Billboard COULD easily pacify most of us if they’d just stop making these ridiculous comparisons that have absolutely nothing to do with each other.  Like I said, I can live with the new methodology … it makes perfect sense and may be the only way to truly measure how music is absorbed today.  But the line for this method was drawn many, many years ago … and to continue to mislead fans of ALL music goes completely against everything Billboard has ever stood for.  It’s a shame … it’s embarrassing … and it’s insulting.  Hmm … maybe they really ARE more like The Rock Hall than I thought!  (kk)

 

UPDATE:  By the way, on a positive note (say what?!?!), this week Billboard is reporting that Drake (with his well over 100 chart hits) has now peaked at EVERY position on Billboard’s Hot 100 except 31, 43, 46, 59, 66, 77, 93, 96, 98 and 99, bringing the tally to 90 out of a possible 100.  (When one considers that 51 of those peaks were outside The Top 40, you gain some perspective as to just how lasting these hits have been.)  And six of his nine Top Ten hits from last week have already fallen out of The Top Ten, much as we said they would.  (kk)

 

Meanwhile, congratulations (again!) to Earth, Wind and Fire who, on September 21st, experienced more than a million and a half streams and downloads for their rock and soul classic, “September.”  (It’s kind of become the National Anthem of September 21st, mentioning the date in the lyrics and sparking revitalized sales for the past 43 years.  Even more amazing is the idea that another million and a half people had to stream it … what, after all this time, you still don’t OWN a copy???)

How crazy significant is this run?

Well, that’s about 200,000 more streams than the song had LAST September 21st, 2020!  And, it’s about FIVE TIMES as many streams as it had the day before (on September 20th!)  WTG, guys … your track is the very definition of “timeless and memorable music.”  (kk)

 

UPDATE:  Could it end up charting again next week?  Anything’s possible … and it HAS happened before.  Meanwhile, I wanna know how it is that ABBA’s new single hasn’t charted here yet in The United States.  PR says that over four million people downloaded it within the first weeks of its release … how is it possible that those kind of sales haven’t registered on Billboard’s “most accurate” representation of popular music?  Factor in YouTube views (22 million for “I Still Have Faith For You” and another 11 million for “Don’t Shut Me Down”) makes me just a bit suspicious about what kind of accuracy Billboard is really representing. (kk)

 

You can check out our FH Buddy Bob Lind for a brief concert on his Facebook Page this Sunday …

To those of you on FaceBook who might have missed my last post: 

I will be live (sort of) this Sunday, September 26th, at 2 p.m. Eastern to sing a couple songs and promote an online concert that I'll be doing in November. 

Stop by and watch if you're a-mind to. I haven't played for an audience in more than two years. I need the fresh meat.

Love to you,

Yers,

Bob Lind-

www.boblind.com

 

I was surprised to hear you talk of Tom Goodell today.  I used to chat with him every few months on the phone in the 70's and 80's but not since!  Glad he is still gathering all the "alltime hits" surveys today.  That was his specialty then and apparently still is!  Hi Tom!

Clark Besch


And Chuck Buell sends this follow-up as “A Sign Of The Times” …

I shared with you a Sad Sign of the Times a week or so ago ~~~


Here's my followup to that!

He also complimented us on our most recent CB moniker …

Gotta give you credit …

HA!  "(Cabbage Boy!)” … You're getting pretty good at this!

CB (which stands for "Conceding Boy!")

Friday, September 24, 2021

THE FRIDAY FLASH

Good Morning, Kent:

Thank you for mentioning our One-Hit Wonder Weekend feature scheduled to begin in the 7:00 pm hour this evening.  (Friday, September 24th)

We wanted to make the concept of “one-hit wonder” as simple as possible, removing as much ambiguity and sentimentality from the definition as we possibly could.  For our purposes, we’re relying on the Wikipedia definition ...  A “one-hit wonder” is an artist who had one hit (no more than a single song that qualifies) and only one hit (a song that made the Top 40 in Billboard’s Hot 100).  Anyone can therefore determine the status of any artist — they either qualify or they don’t. 

Have a good weekend.

Rick

Rick O’Dell

Program Director – Me-TV-FM

Anyone looking for suggestions for one hit wonders, let me submit my favorite ... "The Girl From Ipanema" by Astrud Gilberto.  What a great voice.  I never tire of this, or any of her songs, even the ones in Spanish, or is it Portuguese, where I don't understand the lyrics.  Or when she taunts the grammar police with "She looks straight ahead, not at he."  YouTube has a great 1987 concert she did with her own band. 

Ed #1

A great one, for sure!  Portugal. The Man’s big hit “Feel It Still” from a few years ago always reminded me of the great Astrud Gilberto / Stan Getz classic.  (kk)

Kent,

In today's FH, reader Brad brought up the subject of "One Hit Wonders." 

I believe it was singer Frankie Ford, who had the big "one hit" back in 1959 with SEA CRUISE, that was asked the question of what it felt like to be a "one hit wonder" recording artist.

His reply was "It was a lot better than being a no hit wonder artist."

Also, our local cable company here in OKC started a new television commercial. I am not 100% sure, but the background music sure sounds like Ernie K-Doe's follow-up to his 1961 hit MOTHER-IN-LAW, that being TE-TA-TE-TA-TA. I always did like that record but have to verify 100% if it is that song.

Larry

I’ve gotta agree with Frankie Ford on this one!  (lol)  As for Ernie K-Doe, he remains a One Hit Wonder in my book.  Although he officially charted ten times, it was his #1 Hit “Mother-In-Law” that put him on the music map in 1961.  I don’t know if I’d recognize “Te-Ta-Te-Ta-Ta” if I heard it … but it DID reach #43 in Cash Box Magazine later that same year.  This is another one that was all of the board in terms of chart peak … #43 in Cash Box, #53 in Billboard and #73 in Music Vendor.  Four of those ten charted hits never made it into The Top 100.  (kk)

Another great Monkees Farewell Tour review …

The Monkees’ ‘Farewell Tour’ Review: ‘1966 All Over Again’ | Best Classic Bands

(Can’t wait for this thing to hit Chicago in November!)

The Rolling Stones have released a new video for a track off their upcoming “Tattoo You” anniversary CD.

Titled “Living In The Heart Of Love,” they’ll also be performing the track live when their “No Filter” tour resumes on Sunday (September 26th.)  kk

Robert Feder is reporting that WDCB will be presenting a look back at two legendary Chicagoland DJ’s this Saturday afternoon … more details below …

Chicago radio fans are in for a treat on this weekend’s “Those Were the Days.” It’s a rare visit to radio in the 1960s, including half-hour excerpts from two all-time greats — WGN’s Wally Phillips in 1965 and WCFL’s Ron Britain in 1967. Other highlights include NBC’s “Monitor,” ABC’s “Don McNeill Show” and CBS’s “Arthur Godfrey Time.” “Obviously, it would be impossible to summarize the 1960s in a single show,” said host and producer Steve Darnall. “But it was a period of transition — both for radio and the U.S. as a whole — and we hope these audio snapshots will give everyone an idea of the many paths radio was taking a mere 50-plus years ago.” “Those Were the Days” airs from 1 to 5 p.m. Saturdays on College of DuPage’s WDCB 90.9-FM and streams online at wdcb.org.

Rollye James has been covered a couple of times in Forgotten Hits. She publishes her nightly bumper music list on her website, and I think you'll agree she's a fan of forgotten hits, if not Forgotten Hits. She's on til 1AM and it's worth staying up a little late once in a while to hear some of her interesting topics - but mostly her bumper music. She plays a lot of each track, too. Scroll through a few of these:

http://www.rollye.net/

David Lewis

Rollye James has participated with Forgotten Hits a couple of times … but it has been a very long time since we’ve heard from her.  (She and I first connected thru radio programming guru John Rook many years ago.)  I know FH Reader Clark Besch is a big fan of Rollye’s bumper music as well.  You’ll find a wide and eclectic selection of tunes posted to her website (many coming, she says, from listener requests.)  kk

It looks like the 30th anniversary edition of Nirvana’s big album “Nevermind” WILL be issued with Spencer Elden’s penis still intact after all.  (To the best of my knowledge, no compensation package was ever announced … and, when asked, Lorena Bobbitt reportedly had no comment.)

 

The new edition packs in 70 previously unreleased live tracks, recorded literally from all over the world.  (Amsterdam, Netherlands, Del Mar, California, Melbourne, Australia and Tokyo, Japan and will be released on November 12th.  It will be available in both a 5 CD/1 Blu-Ray version as well as an 8-LP plus bonus 7” single vinyl version.




Meanwhile, Cat Stevens gets the deluxe, 50th anniversary treatment for his 1971 LP “Teaser And The Firecat” in a VERY big way on November 12th as well.

 

Once again, available in a wide variety of formats, including a Super Deluxe edition that includes the original LP, an alternate version of the complete LP, several of Cat’s live performances on the radio and an entire live concert performed on May 2nd, 1971, in Montreux, Switzerland.

 

“Teaser And The Firecat” hit #2 on Billboard’s Top 200 Albums Chart.  It also peaked at #2 in the UK and was named the Biggest Selling Album Of The Year in Australia.

 

I must say the package looks amazing.  It is also available on vinyl as well as a special Blu-Ray version.  (And, depending on just how much Cat you need in your life right now, you can even get the CDs, LPs and Blu-Ray discs all packaged together in one amazing box set collection.) 

 

Photo and track listing for the ultimate Cat/Teaser experience are shown below.  (kk)

 


4CD/Blu-ray/2LP/7″ SUPER DELUXE EDITION BOX SET

 

CD1: Teaser and the Firecat (50th Anniversary Remaster)
1. The Wind
2. Rubylove
3. If I Laugh
4. Changes IV
5. How Can I Tell You
6. Tuesday’s Dead
7. Morning Has Broken
8. Bitterblue
9. Moonshadow
10. Peace Train

 

CD2: Demos, Alternate Versions, Bonus Tracks
1. The Wind (Dubville Sessions 2020)
2. Rubylove (Studio Demo)
3. If I Laugh (Studio Demo)
4. Changes IV (Alternate Mix, 1971)
5. How Can I Tell You (Studio Demo)
6. Tuesday’s Dead (Studio Demo)
7. Morning Has Broken (Basing Street Rehearsal)
8. Bitterblue (Basing Street Rehearsal)
9. Moonshadow (Olympic Studio Demo, 1970)
10. Peace Train (Extended String Mix, 1971)
11. The Day They Make Me Tsar (Studio Demo)
12. I Want To Live In A Wigwam
13. Fisherman Song (Studio Demo)
14. Changes IV (Studio Demo)
15. Tuesday’s Dead (Alternate Mix, 1971)
16. Morning Has Broken (Studio Demo)
17. Bitterblue² (Reimagined 2021)

 

CD3: Live On Air, UK, 1971
1. Moonshadow (BBC Radio Session, 8th November 1970)
2. Tuesday’s Dead (BBC Radio Session, 23rd March 1971)
3. How Can I Tell You (BBC Radio Session, 23rd March 1971)
4. Peace Train (BBC Radio Session, 23rd March 1971)
5. Moonshadow (BBC Radio Session, 23rd March 1971)
6. Bitterblue (BBC Radio Session, 23rd March 1971)
7. Moonshadow (Out Front: Cat Stevens And Friends, Yorkshire Television, 7th September 1971)
8. Where Do The Children Play? (Out Front: Cat Stevens And Friends, Yorkshire Television, 7th September 1971)
9. Longer Boats (Out Front: Cat Stevens And Friends, Yorkshire Television, 7th September 1971)
10. Tuesday’s Dead (Out Front: Cat Stevens And Friends, Yorkshire Television, 7th September 1971)
11. Sad Lisa (Out Front: Cat Stevens And Friends, Yorkshire Television, 7th September 1971)
12. Hard Headed Woman (Out Front: Cat Stevens And Friends, Yorkshire Television, 7th September 1971)
13. Father and Son (Out Front: Cat Stevens And Friends, Yorkshire Television, 7th September 1971)
14. If I Laugh (The Old Grey Whistle Test, BBC TV, 5th October 1971)
15. Changes IV (The Old Grey Whistle Test, BBC TV, 5th October 1971)
16. Moonshadow (Cat Stevens In Concert, BBC TV, 27th November 1971)
17. Tuesday’s Dead (Cat Stevens In Concert, BBC TV, 27th November 1971)
18. How Can I Tell You (Cat Stevens In Concert, BBC TV, 27th November 1971)
19. Bitterblue (Cat Stevens In Concert, BBC TV, 27th November 1971)
20. Changes IV (Cat Stevens In Concert, BBC TV, 27th November 1971)

 

CD4: Live In Montreux, 2nd May 1971
1. Intro (Live In Montreux, 2nd May 1971)
2. Hard Headed Woman (Live In Montreux, 2nd May 1971)
3. On The Road To Find Out (Live In Montreux, 2nd May 1971)
4. Wild World (Live In Montreux, 2nd May 1971)
5. Longer Boats (Live In Montreux, 2nd May 1971)
6. Maybe You’re Right (Live In Montreux, 2nd May 1971)
7. Sad Lisa (Live In Montreux, 2nd May 1971)
8. Miles From Nowhere (Live In Montreux, 2nd May 1971)
9. Katmandu (Live In Montreux, 2nd May 1971)
10. Lady D’Arbanville (Live In Montreux, 2nd May 1971)
11. Father And Son (Live In Montreux, 2nd May 1971)
12. Where Do The Children Play? (Live In Montreux, 2nd May 1971)
13. Peace Train (Live In Montreux, 2nd May 1971)

 

BLU-RAY
HD 24bit/48kHz AUDIO
Teaser and the Firecat (50th Anniversary Remaster)
1. The Wind
2. Rubylove
3. If I Laugh
4. Changes IV
5. How Can I Tell You
6. Tuesday’s Dead
7. Morning Has Broken
8. Bitterblue
9. Moonshadow
10. Peace Train

VIDEO
1. The Wind
2. Moonshadow


Cat Stevens Live In Montreux, Switzerland (2nd May 1971)
1. Longer Boats
2. Sad Lisa
3. Wild World
4. Katmandu
5. Lady D’Arbanville
6. Where Do The Children Play?
7. Peace Train


Out Front: Cat Stevens And Friends (Yorkshire TV) (7th September 1971)
1. Moonshadow
2. Where Do The Children Play?
3. Longer Boats
4. Tuesday’s Dead
5. Sad Lisa
6. Hard Headed Woman
7. Father And Son


The Old Grey Whistle Test (BBC TV) (5th October 1971)
1. If I Laugh
2. Changes IV


Cat Stevens In Concert (BBC TV) (27th November 1971)
1. Moon Shadow
2. Tuesday’s Dead
3. How Can I Tell You
4. Bitterblue
5. Changes IV


LP1: TEASER AND THE FIRECAT (ALTERNATIVE VERSIONS)

SIDE 1
1. The Wind (Dubville Sessions 2020)
2. Rubylove (Studio Demo)
3. If I Laugh (Studio Demo)
4. Changes IV (Studio Demo)
5. How Can I Tell You (Studio Demo)

SIDE 2
1. Tuesday’s Dead (Studio Demo)
2. Morning Has Broken (Basing Street Rehearsal)
3. Bitterblue (Basing Street Rehearsal)
4. Moonshadow (Olympic Studio Demo, 1970)
5. Peace Train (Extended String Mix, 1971)


LP2: LIVE 1971

SIDE 1: Live In Montreux, 2nd May 1971
1. Hard Headed Woman
2. Wild World
3. Lady D’Arbanville
4. Father And Son
5. Peace Train

SIDE 2: Live At The BBC, 1971
1. Moonshadow (BBC Radio Session, 23rd March 1971)
2. If I Laugh (The Old Grey Whistle Test, 5th October 1971)
3. Tuesday’s Dead (Cat Stevens In Concert, 27th November 1971)
4. How Can I Tell You (Cat Stevens In Concert, 27th November 1971)
5. Bitterblue (Cat Stevens In Concert, 27th November 1971)
6. Changes IV (Cat Stevens In Concert, 27th November 1971)


7″ SINGLE
1. Moonshadow
2. Spike Milligan narration


My God, it may take you nine lives just to get thru this whole thing ... but it SURE is pretty!!!  (kk)

 

>>>While I would agree with you that The Tokens definitely DID have more than one Top 40 Hit (“Tonight I Fell In Love” was actually a pretty big one, peaking at #12 earlier the same year that “The Lion Sleeps Tonight” put them on the map permanently), I think a lack of respect by radio has made these other titles ["He's In Town," "I Hear Trumpets Blow," "Portrait Of My Love"] seem so obscure.  (When’s the last time you heard ANY of your mentioned tunes on the radio … anywhere?!?!) kk

All of these records have been featured in the past year by DJs on Top Shelf Oldies. That's why the station's motto is "Uncommon Oldies."

– Randy Price

 

And how about this closer from Mike Wolstein …

 

When I read your story yesterday that mentioned Alice Cooper, it reminded me of this pic from ad for a beer I never heard of, about 9 or 10 years ago.

Scary.  ;-)

Mike

 


But this photo sent in by Frank B. totally cracked me up, too!  (kk)

 



Thursday, September 23, 2021

Thursday This And That

Hey Kent –

I have been running a series of "One Hit Wonder" games in our chatroom for the last several months.  I think I have done seven or so by now, and have more coming.

I have several hundred artists who had just one TOP 40 hit, although a number of those are known basically for ONE song (Like "96 Tears" for ? and Mysterians.)

I just started reading your list in today's posting and, not to be too nit-picky, but the Tokens had several other TOP 40 hits ... “Tonight I Fell In Love,” “He's In Town,” “I Heart Trumpets Blow” and “Portrait Of My Love” are four that were all BILLBOARD TOP 40 hits.

What constitutes a "One Hit Wonder" artist is obviously open to debate.


I can even think of one where a guy was a "One Hit Wonder" twice ... because he changed his name on the label.  (Johnny Cymbal and Derek were the same guy.)


I will read through the entire list you posted but won't send any more 'discrepancies' unless you wish me to.


Keep up the good work, as always.

Brad

The definition of “One Hit Wonder” certainly HAS changed over the years.  Way back when, it meant one Top 100 Hit!!!  Then it became one Top 40 Hit … and then even that became a bit more relaxed because so many artists were earning a second Top 40 Hit (many of which remain in obscurity), simply due to the success of their first BIG hit, prompting radio stations to immediately add their new release to their play lists, only to have it fizzle out a few weeks later.  Now I almost seems to be a case of one big recognizable hit and if a few other “throwaways” happen in between, so be it.

While I would agree with you that The Tokens definitely DID have more than one Top 40 Hit (“Tonight I Fell In Love” was actually a pretty big one, peaking at #12 earlier the same year that “The Lion Sleeps Tonight” put them on the map permanently), I think a lack of respect by radio has made these other titles seem so obscure.  (When’s the last time you heard ANY of your mentioned tunes on the radio … anywhere?!?!)

Meanwhile, “Lion” has been used in countless movies, tv shows, advertising spots, etc.  Kids two years old today know it well enough to sing along!

(One minor note:  “He’s In Town” did not make The Top 40 on any of the national charts … it peaked at #43 in Billboard, which was its best showing ... but the others were all legitimate Top 40 Hits … and are pretty good records in and of themselves.)

Speaking of artists who have multiple One Hits, I always reference Jay Ferguson (“I Got A Line On You” with Spirit, “Run Run Run” with Jo Jo Gunne and “Thunder Island” as a solo artist, although he, too, had a follow up Top 40 Hit that nobody remembers called “Shakedown Cruise” … go ahead, sing a few bars!) … and then the incomparable Tony Burrows, who sang the uncredited lead vocals on FIVE One Hit Wonders:  “Beach Baby” by First Class, “Love Grows (Where My Rosemary Goes)” by Edison Lighthouse, “United We Stand” by The Brotherhood Of Man, “Gimme Dat Ding” by The Pipkins and “My Baby Loves Lovin’” by White Plains.  I don’t know that ANYONE will ever top THAT record.  (Not even Drake!)  kk

 

Hi Kent,

After reading Mike Markesich's comments in your Monday blog, I feel that I must respond.

First of all, I've been closely following the Billboard charts ever since I was 8 years-old in 1974.  Things have certainly changed in those nearly 50 years.  But the charts have always been evolving since Billboard started publishing them on a regular basis, starting in 1940.  That said, I'm not happy to see artists charting 20+ songs from one album in one week.  But that's the world we live in nowadays.  I have several friends currently working in the Billboard chart department and to use childish insults and calling them "smarmy, musical history no-nuthins" is not only wrong, it's also borderline libelous.  They are doing their best to incorporate all aspects of the music business into their charts. 

In case your readers don't know, streaming accounts for 84% of music industry revenues these days!  How can Billboard ignore this?  The answer is, they can't. 

Let's face it, the days of going to the record store and purchasing the latest hit single are long gone.  I miss those days as much as most of us, but they aren't coming back.  If you don't like how Billboard compiles their charts, then don't follow them.  Honestly, if I wasn't working at Record Research, I probably wouldn't pay much attention to today's charts.  But then again, today's pop music isn't made for my generation, just as the stuff I listened to as a kid wasn't aimed at my parents. 

As for comparing the different eras, it's just not as feasible as it used to be.  Even comparing the 1960s to the 1980s is tough, because of how fast the charts were turning over.  For instance, The Beatles never had a single spend more than 19 weeks on the Hot 100!  As far as Billboard making comparisons between the eras, that's up to them.  They have to generate content.  I just take it with a grain of salt, as I think most do.  They are good people just trying to do a job.  Besides, the Record Research books will always be around to remind future generations of the historical facts.

Paul Haney

Record Research

Speaking only for myself here, I have absolutely NO problem with the way Billboard compiles their data today.  They are very upfront about it and, as you point out in your email, I don’t know any other method(s) they could possibly use in this day of downloading and streaming.  It is, I’m sure, the most accurate measurement possible of what people are really buying and listening to.

But what eats at me is that a publication of this stature … one that knows better than any of us “lay folks” buying the music … should NOT be comparing chart data side by side when the method in collecting that data (and the criteria for compiling that data) has absolutely NOTHING in common with one another.  That’s my big sticking point … and yet they continue to do so as if one era has anything at all to do with another … because they simply don’t.

I get it that they have to base their charts on SOMETHING … and if streaming accounts for 84% of music revenue today, then so be it … use that as your chart basis (and they acknowledge that they do.)  But to counter your statement that “the days of going to the record store and purchasing the latest hit single are long gone” only furthers my point … agreed, it doesn’t work that way anymore … so why are they comparing the two?  To me, that’s like saying, “Well, you know the Concord Jet flies a lot faster than that plane The Wright Brothers built.” Ummm … yeah … but other than the fact that they were both eventually able to get airborne, what’s the comparison based on?

As such, I do exactly as you suggest … and ignore the current Billboard Charts … I don’t even look at them anymore (until a headline like “Drake passes The Beatles” shows up all over the media and then I feel that I have to step in and clarify the point.)  And THAT’S why I’m afraid history will forever be distorted by the misrepresentation of these facts.  Because whereas I am right now ONLY interested in the new Record Research book profiling Billboard’s chart hits from 1955 – 1989, my fear is that THAT will be the book music historians are throwing away a decade from now because its measurement of pop music was too antiquated for our modern methods of doing so … and that’s just wrong.

Are we truly to believe that Drake right now possesses 90% of the “hit market” because of his nine Top Ten Hits.  Is this reflected in any way by what radio is playing today?  Does anybody REALLY hear 14 Drake songs per hour?  Is any radio station really programming that way to reflect what listeners “really want to hear?”  Of course not.  And even if we reduce that number down to 21% based on his Hot 100 domination, are you hearing THREE Drake songs per hour?  (Now you might hear three Michael McDonald songs an hour if you tune in to Sirius XM’s Yacht Rock station … but even a station like Chicago’s The Drive at their very worst might play 17 Aerosmith and 17 Led Zeppelin songs a day.)

Back in the day, however, when The Beatles first captured our attention, it was not at all uncommon to hear radio stations play 8-10 Beatles songs per hour.  I know, because I was there listening at the time … and it was COMPLETE saturation, pure and simple … and, incredibly, listeners were still calling in asking for more.  If Billboard wants to compare eras side by side, a point like this should be made.  And many of those were album tracks, because fans just couldn’t get enough.  Had all those titles been allowed to chart at the time, they, too, would have racked up a hundred chart hits in 1964 … and album were much shorter then, too!  (As it is, they managed to place 34 titles in The Hot 100 in 1964 alone.)

Much the same happened when Elvis hit our consciousness … but Billboard doesn’t even look at his first 34 hits because they predate the day they changed the name of their weekly survey.

The Rock Era has ended, folks.  It probably REALLY died around 1980, perhaps in part due to The Disco Era and the tapering off of The Classic Rock Era.  As such, leave it alone and let it stand on its own as a “moment in time.”  DON’T be trying to lump today’s trend of bleeped-out lyrics into the same category and compare them as such … because it ain’t even close.  (kk)

 

 

FH Reader Tom Goodell sent us a list of The Top 100 Instrumental Hits of the ‘60’s as counted down by Ron Parker on Sirius XM’s ‘60’s Channel …

 

I was curious to see how it compared to our OWN list of Instrumental favorites. (The truth is, we actually have TWO lists of Instrumental Favorites … the mathematical ranking by actual chart performance … and then a SECOND list of Your All-Time Instrumental Favorites as voted on by The Forgotten Hits Readers.)

 

You can find copies of BOTH lists on our other Forgotten Hits Archival Website …

Forgotten Hits - Top 40 Instrumentals, 1955 - 1979

 

Still, you’d think if we were all ranking the same songs on the same charts, there wouldn’t be any big discrepancies here … yet there are.

 

For starters, 7 of our Top Tens are common tracks (although only numbers 1 and 2 match exactly)  Songs that made our Top Ten but missed theirs include “Exodus” (#3 FH / #12 SXM); “Tequila” (#6 FH / and didn’t make the SXM list at all?!?!  Now THAT’S gotta be an mistake!) and “Wipe Out” (#7 FH / #37 SXM) doesn’t quite compute either, being that this song charted TWICE and reached The National Top Ten both times.)

 

The three songs that made THEIR Top Ten but didn’t score as high on our chart are “The Poor People Of Paris” (#3 SXM / #13 FH); “Moonglow and Theme From ‘Picnic’” (#8 SXM / #20 FH) and “Last Date” (#10 SXM / #18 FH)

 

Glaring omissions (on both ends) include “A Fifth Of Beethoven,” “Melody Of Love,” “Rise” and “Love’s Theme.”  By the same token, I don’t know how WE missed “Grazing In The Grass,” “Soulful Strut,” "Classical Gas" or “The Entertainer.”

 

And, as if all of this isn’t bad enough, then we got THIS list from MSN’s Music News sheet …  The 20 best instrumental songs of all time (msn.com)

 

Although not necessarily ranked in any specific order, the list skews heavily (pun intended) to the classic rock side of things, overlooking the major POP Instrumental Hits that most charts like these are based on.

 

As we’ve learned over the years, you’ll NEVER get everybody to agree to anything when it comes to these rankings.  (Put three people together and you’ll likely have a hard time agreeing on where to go for lunch!!!)

 

Still, always a fun topic to share … and just odd that these all came up at the same time!  (kk)

 

Hey Kent -

The "Maggie May" discussion got me thinking of another case of "radio station rediscovery." Back in 1989, "When I'm With You" by Sheriff went to #1. The song was first released in 1983 and stalled at #61, but years later, radio stations put it in rotation like it was a new song, and this time it took. The group had long since broken up and didn't re-form, although two members formed Alias, which had a minor hit called "More Than Words Can Say."

Be Well,

Carl Wiser

Songfacts.com

A few others that I’ve always taken note of …

[NOTE:  All peaks below are according to Billboard]

Moving Pictures – “What About Me” … kind of the opposite effect … #29 in 1983 and then #46 in 1989

Benny Mardones – “Into The Night” … #11 in 1980 … and the right back to #20 in 1989.  (Tracks like the above-mentioned “Wipe Out” had a similar resurgence … #2 and #9 … and, of course, “The Twist” by Chubby Checker, which actually went to #1 TWICE!!!

How about Hall and Oates’ first chart hit “She’s Gone?”  Yes, it was released in 1974 by their old label, Atlantic Records, and stalled at #60 … but then, after “Sara Smile” hit The Top Five, Atlantic rereleased the exact same recording and watched it go all the way to #7.  (Neil Diamond’s “Solitary Man” had a similar fate … when first released by an unknown Neil Diamond, it stopped at #55.  But then, after Neil scored a dozen Top 40 Hits and jumped to Uni Records, Bang added some horns and rereleased “Solitary Man” in 1970, only to see it climb to #21.

And finally (although there are certainly more!), how about Aerosmith’s first single “Dream On?”  It essentially tanked when it was first released in 1973, peaking at #59.  But then, after “Sweet Emotion” hit The Top 40, Columbia Records released it again (in its album long form version) and the song went to #6.  (Derek and the Dominoes’ “Layla,” short edit, peaked at #51 … but then the rereleased LONG version went all the way to #10!)  I guess you just never really know … but in all of the cases shown above, these proved to be lasting songs.  (kk)

 

I have had good response to our show ... all positive feedback except a couple that did not like Brown Sugar being number one! Thanks again for your help.

Phil

As you know, “Brown Sugar” won by a SUBSTANTIAL lead … it was also your #1 pick and my #10 pick … so in this case, I would have to say that the majority have definitely spoken.  (kk)

 

Update on the Fugees in NYC

Reports: Pier 17 rooftop, South Street Seaport.    

--BF

 

Kent,
The Biondi Bash show was a killer!  Thanks to Pam's (and LOTS of other folks') hard work, the Biondi film should be sewn up and on the air soon.
And a HUGE thanks to Ron Onesti, who donated the use of his theater ... incidentally, he really did a great job re-doing the theater!  It's nothing like it was a few years ago. You have to see a show there in order to appreciate it!
4 hours and 10 minutes of great oldies from Chicago groups, and even Felix Cavaliere, who ended the show with some roaring rock and roll.  My ears are still ringing.  ;-)
Mike Wolstein

 

While the big news Genesis-wise is their reunion tour, most of the focus seems to be on how much pain Phil Collins is in. 

We already knew he wouldn’t be drumming … but two shows in and he’s already saying that this is the last one … that he won’t do this again because of the amount of pain he is in.

I get it … and maybe more consideration should have been given to this upfront before making such a huge commitment and heightening the excitement of hundreds of thousands of Genesis fans keen on seeing the band one last time. (I’ve NEVER seen them … but would have LOVED to have gone to this show!)

Obviously, we hope Phil can weather thru all of this, even if it means singing from a chair.  (I’m hearing that Mike Nesmith is pretty much doing that during The Monkees reunion tour as well.)

Let’s face it … our music heroes are all getting older … and experiencing the same aches and pains all of US do as we continue to go up in age.  Why so many still want to go thru the grueling ordeal of all the travel (and now risk of Covid) is beyond me … but like Micky Dolenz has said many times, “They pay us to travel.  Most of us would go up there and sing for free.”  As more and more artists move thru their 70’s (and some now approaching their 80’s), one cannot help but wonder how many more reunion (and farewell) tours we’ll see.  (kk)

https://www.rollingstone.com/music/music-news/genesis-reunion-tour-birmingham-england-live-review-1229642/

 

Hi Kent:

Here is some interesting news from Gordon Anderson at Real Gone Music regarding Record Store Day on Black Friday (November 26th.) 

I'm forwarding the press release to you in case you want to let your blog readers know about it. Also, I attached the front cover for you.

Santi Paradoa

 

The Shangri-Las - The Best Of The Red Bird And Mercury Recordings

 


Can you believe there hasn't been a legitimate Shangri-Las collection issued on vinyl since, well, forever?! At least not since the advent of the CD era. But we're making up for lost time with this one -- when it comes to Shangri-Las compilations, this one's (sorry) the leader of the pack!

 

Twenty-five tracks newly remastered by Eliot Kissileff from tape sources, presented in a 2-LP set pressed in (vroom! vroom!) clear with black "tailpipe exhaust" vinyl, and housed in a gatefold jacket with a 4-page insert. Liner notes by Shangri-Las expert John Grecco featuring his personal reminiscences of such legends as producer "Shadow" Morton, engineer Brooks Arthur, and band manager Larry Martire and rare photos complete the best-looking Shangs package ever released.

 

"Remember (Walkin' In The Sand)" (the "Oh No" song of TikTok fame), "Leader Of The Pack," "Give Him A Great Big Kiss," "I Can Never Go Home Anymore" ... all your faves, sounding better than they ever have before!

 

Remember (Walkin' In The Sand) *

Leader Of The Pack *

Give Him A Great Big Kiss *

Out In The Streets *

Give Us Your Blessings *

Never Again *

The Train From Kansas City *

Heaven Only Knows *

I Can Never Go Home Anymore *

Long Live Our Love *

What Is Love?

Maybe

What's A Girl Supposed To Do?

The Dum Dum Ditty

Right Now And Not Later

Sophisticated Boom Boom

He Cried

Dressed In Black

Past, Present, And Future

Paradise

Love You More Than Yesterday

The Sweet Sounds Of Summer

I'll Never Learn

Take The Time

Footsteps On The Roof

* denotes stereo

 

A special edition of the new Paul McCartney lyrics book is being made available through assorted bookstores here in The States as well as the UK.

Paul has personally signed 175 copies … and you can try your luck at obtaining one by contacting any of these outlets …

The Lyrics: 1956 to the Present: Special Limited Edition by Paul McCartney | by Liveright Books | Sep, 2021 | Medium

 

Rush fans can enjoy The Director’s Cut of their film “Cinema Strangiato” in the comfort of their own homes.  Your online screening ticket is available via the link below for only $15 … and is good from October 1st thru October 10th.

Rush: Cinema Strangiato - Director's Cut At Home Edition • Stellar Tickets 

 

I loved the close in today's FHs!

 


Some of these things are more clever and spot on than others … so Lettuce say this is one of those!

CB

(Cabbage Boy … sorry, I just couldn’t resist!!!  Lol)  kk

 

Sarah Dash, an original founding member of LaBelle, died on Monday (September 20th)

Ironically, she had just shared a stage with Patti LaBelle two days before.

The two (along with Nona Hendryx) first enjoyed success together back in 1962 as The Blue-Belles when their hit single “I Sold My Heart To The Junkman” climbed to #12 on the pop charts.  (Cindy Birdsong, who would leave the group in 1967 to replace Florence Ballard in The Supremes, was also an early member.)

A couple of minor Top 40 Hits followed (“Down The Aisle,” #29, 1963 and “You’ll Never Walk Alone,” #34, 1964 … but then it was nearly a dozen years before they burst through again with their smash, #1 Hit, “Lady Marmalade” in 1975.

 

Patti LaBelle made the following statement when she first heard of Sarah’s death:

 

“We were just onstage together on Saturday and it was such a powerful and special moment.  Sarah Dash was an awesomely talented, beautiful and loving soul who blessed my life and the lives of so many others in more ways than I can say. I could always count on her to have my back. That’s who Sarah was … a loyal friend and a voice for those who didn’t have one. She was a true giver, always serving and sharing her talent and time. I am heartbroken, as I know all of her loved ones and fans are. But I know that Sarah’s spirit and all that she has given to the world live on. And I pray that her precious memory brings us peace and comfort. Rest in power my dear sister. I love you always!”

 

More here:  https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/music-news/sarah-dash-labelle-lady-marmalade-dead-1235017460/

 

kk …

Lenny Dell, Lead Singer of The Dimensions, has died.

1960 = "OVER THE RAINBOW"  (#16)

1963 = "MY FOOLISH HEART"  (#87)
https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=1171707656651075&set=a.112550015900183

FB

 

Wow!  Talk about your television diversity!!!

I got this email yesterday (Wednesday, September 22nd), celebrating “This Day In TV History”:

Maverick (in 1957), The Man From U.N.C.L.E. (1964), Charlie’s Angels (1976), Family Ties (1982), Full House (1987), Family Matters (1989), Baywatch (1989), Friends (1994), The West Wing (1999), Lost (2004), Veronica Mars (2004) and NCIS: Los Angeles (2009) premiered

 

Johnny B (Jonathon Brandmeier) has been tapped to host this year’s Radio Hall Of Fame Awards Ceremony, held here in Chicago on October 28th.  Sadly, there aren’t any of our Top 40 Era Jocks on the list this year … and apparently once again a very deserving Bob Stroud didn’t make the cut.  (kk)

 

kk …

This Saturday (9/25) Bob Miranda, Lead Singer of The Happenings, visits with Cousin Brucie.

You Know What That Means, Kent?

Cousin Brucie Will Be Able To Play "SEE YOU IN SEPTEMBER" --- In The Month Of September. 

If He Waited One More Week, I Couldn't Say That.

FB

 

 

This is a transcript of an article from yesterday’s Phoenix newspaper which provides some unique insight into some early 70s rock history. The story reminded me of our local Shaw Street Smakers softball team which consisted of several players from Fuse and Nazz. The Smakers only played one game, 50 years ago last June, and defeated the local Police Department 8-7. I have heard that there were quite a few games across the country played under the same format at the time. Unfounded rumor has it that we were the only team that actually won the game.

Robert Campbell

 

'We go back a long way':

How the Monkees' Micky Dolenz and Alice Cooper became Vampires

Ed Masley - Arizona Republic - Published 7:00 a.m. MT Sep. 18, 2021

Micky Dolenz is, in theory, on the phone with a music reporter from Phoenix to talk about the Monkees Farewell Tour he launched a few days earlier with Michael Nesmith. But first, he'd like to ask a couple of questions.

"You're calling from Phoenix?" Dolenz asks. "You know my friend Alice?"

His friend Alice, of course, is Alice Cooper, the shock-rock pioneer with whom he formed a celebrity drinking group known as the Hollywood Vampires in the '70s. Other members included Keith Moon, Harry Nilsson, Bernie Taupin, Ringo Starr and John Lennon.

Micky Dolenz on the Monkees' proper place in music history:

"As you know, we go back a long way," Dolenz says. "When I first moved to Laurel Canyon, he was living across the street in a rented place. He wasn't Alice yet. He was Vince, as you know. But then he became, of course, Alice, and we became just really good friends." Cooper eventually moved into what Dolenz recalls as a beautiful house right next door to his. "I don't know why or how but we just got along," Dolenz says. "We never worked together. It was all about friendship and camaraderie."

Both the Monkees and Alice Cooper were theatrical It may have been that they were kindred spirits of a sort. "I think a little of it may have been that Alice, as you know, was and is a theatrical act, like the Monkees were. We're theatrical. Like Kiss. Or the Who. It was Broadway. Alice is probably one of the greatest Broadway theatrical rock stars ever. And the Monkees were essentially theatrical. So that's probably one of the reasons we got along." At a certain point, that friendship gave way to the Hollywood Vampires.

"Alice and I kind of started it," Dolenz says. "To most people, they describe it as a drinking club. But it actually started as a softball team."

They'd get together on the weekends and play softball games for charity. "We got into kind of a league thing with other record companies and we'd play the fire department or the police department," Dolenz says. "We'd go to boys schools and camps for underprivileged kids and we'd play softball. That's how it started. And Alice came up with the name, of course." They even had their own team jerseys with big red V's. "Alice tended to be the pitcher," Dolenz says. "Peter Tork, who was probably the best baseball player on the team, he would play left field. I was not that great. I would play first base, usually." Lennon never played, but he would show up at the games and definitely show up at the bar. The membership was relatively fluid, if you will.

But first, a new teen center Hollywood Vampires membership was fluid …

"We'd have all kinds of different people come through," Dolenz says. "But then after the game, we would go to the Rainbow (Bar and Grill) and party." In an interview with the Quietus, Cooper said, "It was sort of a last man standing drinking club. And we would sit there every night waiting for what Keith Moon was gonna be wearing ... Is he gonna be Hitler or is he gonna be Queen Elizabeth?"

To this day, there's a Hollywood Vampire plaque on the wall at the Rainbow listing Dolenz and other members with Cooper as president and Moon as Vice President. Cooper and Dolenz have stayed friends through the years.

In 2019, Dolenz was among the featured guests at the annual fundraising bash for Alice Cooper's Rock Teen Center at Las Sendas Golf Club, where he belted out "Last Train to Clarksville" and "I'm a Believer," playfully telling the crowd, "If you know the words, don't sing along; it puts me off."

"We learned to play golf simultaneously from my dearly beloved ex-wife, Samantha (Juste), who passed away," Dolenz recalls. "Her father, who lived with us, and her mother, he was a good old English duffer is the term they use. He played golf. And he taught me and Alice how to play."

Cooper, of course, went on, as Dolenz says, "to almost be a pro." And Dolenz? "I haven't played recently, really," he says.