ROCKOLLECTIONS: Recent Episodes
Mike Pell
The Rock & Roll musings and reminiscences of a Musicologist- offered in an intelligent and enjoyable manner. The name Rockollections was chosen for its inference of memories, as well as a vast collection of music to choose from. Featuring the musical biographies of selected groups and artists, or shows devoted to a particular Theme. The antidote to today's fractured radio with its tight playlists. An old fashioned, free-form radio show with songs familiar, forgotten, or never heard- cutting across all genres and decades, from Rock & Roll's infancy right up to today. The WORLD is our playlist!
This is the Final Topic for the 60's Poets, Social Commentary, for a Series I started a few years ago, influenced by the early days of Scott Muni on WNEW-FM. The other Topics in case you forgot were Loneliness, Love, War and Peace and Poverty! I'll begin with a Song that caused a bit of a stir back in 1967, but was a Hit nonetheless. Then the Subject selections this time will be Child Neglect, Drugs, Apathy and more! I hope you enjoyed this Series with songs smartly well-written- for me it was a Labor Of Love as they still get to me. Again I ask you to Listen To The Words...The Lyrics, of the 60's Poets and their Thoughts and Stories! Give a listen and enjoy!
Mike
Let's sing about those of us who avail ourselves of the Time-Honored Tradition of playing the angles at Work!Something learned over time at all Jobs- how to slack off and skate a little.Be Lazy when the opportunity presents itself.We are all guilty, so let's celebrate it in Song, lol!But there is Pride in what we do at Work, It's Our Job!And finally, after all the Labor Day Shows, the Last Song!The one I knew I would end with from the moment I began.Join me...for a Toast!And remember to give a solemn respectful thought to those souls we lost on Sept. 11th, 2001! Mike
The first song here may not be strenuous Work, but may be more difficult than that.And that made me think of some Hard Jobs- Jobs Nobody Wants To Do, The Dirty Work!I think laying track for the Railroad qualifies as Hard Work.So also songs about that, including a genuine Masterpiece.I invite you to Hammer and Get Hammered with me for Pre-Labor Day, lol! Mike
September is coming, and it will be noted in a famous yet very serious tune that is much more than about a month.After that, Work...that necessary evil!For Labor Day a lot of real GOOD songs remained unplayed, still sitting in their neat little pile, from the Rat Race shows I did years ago.And while it's true that 40 Hour Week can make anybody rash and hasty, it can be followed by a "What the hell have I just done?"Join me, as I go into Labor, lol! Mike
This is the Final Chapter of Hair and Hairstylist AppreciationMy last chance to cover everything Hair related I could think of.Cutting hair, baldness, rubbing stuff into hair, washing stuff out of hair and even turning gray!Plus changing your mind about Cutting Your Hair!I hope you enjoyed this short quirky Series.And this Closing Act! Mike
I will continue with Hair and Hairstylist AppreciationLast week I said Letting Your Hair Down had a little sexual innuendo to it.Well I have a couple of songs that make it flat out clear!Long Hair in the 60's and 70's can be traced back to the Beatles, those Moptops, lol!And that led to Hippies and inevitably to lifestyle disagreements, where the length of your hair could prevent you from getting a job!To end this Episode, a song about a Biblical Character and one about a Legendary Character.Join me for a listen! Mike
Moving on with Hairstylist Appreciation, which includes Barbers and Hairdressers.There is a difference between a Hairstylist and a Hairdresser, if I have time I will get into it.This time I sat down and had a taste for Folk And Folk Rock.Or should I say FOLLICLE Folk And Folk Rock, lol!I'll have pretty songs from Folk Icons, peoplye who are Prisoners Of Their Hairdos, fun with not just top of the head but full on Body Hair for Shaving, and a sad song about an Older Woman With A Much Younger Lover that I ask you to listen to the words for!And I'll lift you back up in time for the end.Seems I have enough Hair to continue this next week, so I will.Give a listen to this Episode...now WHAT was the color of my true love's hair? Mike
Here is a show I have long thought of...about Hair!Most of us males hit a Peak Head of Hair Period, and start to lose it from there, GASP!I'll bet over 90 percent of you can guess my starting song.And it is the best Starting Point!I will have a Musical Look at the expression Let Your Hair Down, plus the usual additional explorations.Oh, and I go to a Barber not a Hairstylist, but they are included too, lol!Join me, we'll have some fun with this! Mike
Cruising in your car, listening to Rock & Roll counts.But this time it’s Summer Activities In The City.Local things to do, no car necessary- walking or public transportation will suffice.I’ll have, and play, something by the Doors that you may not have known about.Ending the Summer Activities with one of the strangest sets I've ever done!Frankly I had more to play, but I have to stop sometime.And this is a good way to end!Have fun! Mike
Here are some additional Summer Activities.I did Swimming last time, and I’ll look at some other things that can be done involving Water.Plus Songs For The Great Outdoors and The Great Indoors!Honestly, it was so hot recording this Episode, I removed my shirt.Luckily no video, lol!Purge that thought and enjoy! Mike
Part of Vacations and Summer Activities is staying in a Hotel Room.Be very cool if someone were listening to this in a Hotel!I grew up in Manhattan, and there was no Beach, we had to go to Brooklyn or Queens or some other borough.Or we went up on Tar Beach.I've always wondered if that expression is used in other cities or is purely a New York thing!Then there is the matter of choosing a Bathing Suit- a simple matter for me and men.It's got an elastic band or drawstring, it'll fit, just pick a color, in and out in 2 minutes!But for women, choosing a Bathing Suit is apparently a very complicated, arduous process, lol!This and more Summer Activities.Enjoy! Mike
Good grief, when I recorded this, I didn't realize it was 92 degrees outside, so I was closer to that opening Song than I realized!These Summer Activities will involve Shipping Out And Getting To Shore.Then of course, Swimming- Ocean or Pool.Bring a Towel, and give a listen!Some good Music in here! Mike
Next stop in this Summer Activities exploration, a trip outdoors…to The Beach!Doesn’t mean we have to do anything.Sure you can throw beachballs, frisbees, sand, small animals, etc. or be like me and just lay there.Or also like me, just stand there for a few minutes and leave!Beach Parties, Names Of Beaches, Sons Of Beaches, Girl On Beach, Man On Beach, Beach Boy soundalikes, (which one doesn’t belong lol?), I got it in here.Give a listen, you’ll have a good time!Because next week, there will be more Exertion involved in these Summer Activities. Mike
Making a few stops along the way in this ambitious and overrated Summer Series, this is the first Chapter of Summer Activities.Starting with what we all look forward to- VACATION!With the hot, sticky, sweaty, disgusting Heat and Humidity we’ve had lately, not going to work and sitting in front of air conditioning may be your simple goal.But really no Activity is necessary, you can be lazy...it’s YOUR Vacation!We Yanks go on Vacation, the British go on Holiday!And I will note that minor wordy difference.Enjoy the Music, this is Perspiration-Free! Mike
Well I picked out a song to start this Part 2, and that's all it took for my connection brain to take over, lol!Suddenly I was scurrying around looking for songs about Tequila, you'll understand why.It's still Free Form as long as I am picking the Music!Have a drink for me, I gave it up long ago.Try to just enjoy the Tunes, I don't want to get you drunk, lol! Mike
Time for a Radio Free Form Show, where I am going to try to just play Songs with no Theme.Songs I like or have a memory for me, and music that should be heard somewhere!There will be surprises in here so I will shut up and say no more.But I will say there are Beatles, lol!Join me for a listen to the opening half of Free Form Radio Show #7! Mike
This is it, wrapping up The Rockollections Fashion Show with a pretty bow and my usual flourish, lol!It was a long journey and I thought we had Musically covered every piece of clothing.And then it hit me...UNDERWEAR!It will be duly noted.After that, the scene is you are waiting for your Wife, Girlfriend, Date, whatever.She comes out all dolled up and Takes Your Breath Away- She Looks Gorgeous!I'll play four Songs that capture that feeling and express it in a way we guys should, with four of the nicest and sweetest things you can say to your Lady!If you See something, Say something, lol!What have we learned from all this?Nothing, except that whatever people like us wear, they are Rock & Roll Clothes!I thank you for listening to all or part of this Series.I love a Theme Challenge! Mike
It's the 4th Week of The Rockollections Fashion Show, which is really only 4 Hours- not much if you consider all we wear.I’ll begin with some Poetry On Poverty with a Coat!Although I said No Shoes last week, I couldn't resist playing one, but they are Boots, so a technicality, lol!And to Truly cover you from Head To Toe, I’ve got Hats!Now that we pretty much have a Complete and Fashionable Wardrobe, I think it’s time we went Steppin’ Out!Give a listen, I think you'll enjoy this wide Variety of Music! Mike
It is America's 247th Birthday, on the day the Declaration Of Independence was approved and ratified, July 4th, 1776.Older than me, but I'm pretty damned independent too!So don't get in the way of my Freedom Of Speech, lol!After a couple of Songs, we'll return to Stan Freberg Presents The United States Of America to hear how the Revolutionary War turns out.Leading us into a long set of Music, because I knew if I broke in to speak I would run out of time.Thanks for spending some of your Holiday with me.And Happy Birthday America! Mike
Well the 4th Of July is falling on the day of the Terrestrial Show this year.Incidentally, if you ever wondered, July 4th, 1776 was a Thursday.I'll start with a cut that is not easy to find by the quintessential American Group.Then because it is the day my Rockollections Radio Show is broadcast, I thought I'd play something special, something I've never played before.Stan Freberg Presents The United States Of America, Vol. 1, The Early Years!In the 50's, Stan had taken on Popular Music and Rock & Roll.I am a huge fan of his, and this album was released in 1961.Let's listen and celebrate that 247 years ago my favorite document of all time, the Declaration Of Independence, was given to us! Mike
Well we had Pants, here's something I put on first, Shirts.The Rockollections Fashion Show rolls up it's sleeves and continues with a Musical Look at Shirts this time!Beginning with a beautiful song about how even Shirts can have Long, Well-Travelled Memories for us.And watch out for that Collar!Then Socks-, but not my kind of Socks.Knee Socks, Bobby Sox- I didn't know much about what they were and needed help.Another fun one, It's All Just About Listening To Music! Mike
The Rockollections Fashion Show rolls on with a Musical Look at Pants, Trousers, Slacks, Jeans, whatever you want to call them.Even Half Pants, lol!I can be very mischievous, and I remembered a true story about a song I kept singing while visiting Amish country.I’ll play it in here, as well as a few of the usual surprises.Think you know a few Pants Songs?See if you can anticipate the ones I thought of, it’s Free-Form Radio!This will be a fun one! Mike
It's back to the Ladies on The Rockollections Fashion Show.We are all adults here right?Not all Ladies dress for Fashion, for some...ahem...it's Business!Or Pleasure!And there is something about a Woman In Red.I'll end with a Song about the cheapest way to "Obtain" a Dress, with a certain risk involved.My Venture Into The World Of Fashion will continue! Mike
This Episode of The Rockollections Fashion Show as promised takes a look at the Men, Well Dressed Men.Same as with Women, much of it has to do with how you carry yourself.Yes, I myself have Suits, Sport Jackets, even a Tuxedo.I just never wear them, lol!Not the Fashion sort, I prefer Jeans and Sneakers, and I can't even explain how I know the names of Fashion Designers- guess they just crept into my head.Let's have fun with this! Mike
Seems to me that if we men somehow get shanghaied into going to an Actual Fashion Show, we always have the saving grace of looking at beautiful, but skinny, Women.Not so bad, and lots of Leg!I concentrated on the Ladies in this Chapter.Next time, Well Dressed Men!I'll wear a suit, lol!Enjoy, it's All Just Music! Mike
Time to wrap up this short series on Blackouts. I'll start with a few more Songs Of Seduction for those Birth-Spikers. As a moderately successful Seducer, I can never hear too many of those, lol! Then it is time for us to finally come Out Of The Darkness and Into The Light! And I am sure I will have at least something unexpected for you in here. Blackouts are not really fun, but this has been for me...hopefully for you too. People Let Your Light Shine!
Mike
Got two more parts on Blackouts- apparently I haven't seen the Light yet, lol! Looking back at the one in 2003- the one I enjoyed least of all- the last I heard about it was that it originated from Somewhere In Ohio. Had something to do with an Overload. Then I'll musically include another item you should always have in the event of the Lights going out. Finally, is it just an Urban Legend? Or nine months later, do birth rates really spike in the affected areas of Blackouts? It would seem there is an awful lot of seducing going on during those periods. So some Songs Of Seduction! One more Chapter to go after this one. Enjoy!
Mike
Like with every Rockollections Show, I get to make a statement, send a message. As I have said many times, Music is my form of a Western Union Telegram. For this final half, a couple of songs for those who, for one reason or another, Can’t Go Home. Then I will present a Thanksgiving Dinner In Song! Complete with Leftovers. Most importantly, always remember Everybody has something to be thankful for, not the least of which is being alive and around to BE thankful! I am certainly thankful for those of you who listen and stick with me, with all my quirky choices of songs and Theme Shows. So I THANK YOU! And Happy Thanksgiving everyone!
Mike
A different kind of start this year, as I am perplexed by all this Black Friday business. Seems to me that instead of people being thankful for what they HAVE, they are more interested in what they WANT! Once again, I remind you that Thanksgiving is the most heavily traveled time of the year in the U.S. 55 million travelers estimated this year, and they are all going HOME! So the main thing in this annual Rockollections tradition, and the one I will musically concentrate on, is getting Home For Thanksgiving. But what if the Home is yours? I've got songs for those who have guests coming to their Home- including what you can practice to help cope with those drunken or just plain annoying relatives and friends, lol! After that, a classic you are used to hearing done live- and I will play it live- but a DIFFERENT live! I tell you, the sound quality is excellent, probably superior to the one you have gotten used to over the years . After that…well, I’ll take it from there. I’ll get you Home For Thanksgiving. Enjoy!
Mike
I am late with this Anniversary, but as I have stated, here in the Northeast we have had major Blackouts in 1965, 1977 and 2003. In each case, and for the future, there are certain Essentials you should have. But there was one always dependable, vital, irreplaceable item you HAVE to have. And that will be the subject of this Part Two of our Musical Look at Blackouts. Enough said! On to the Music! To be continued after Thanksgiving!
Mike
While hanging out with the Saints last week I overlooked the Anniversary of our First Great Blackout, November 9th 1965! Time is relative, so this week a look at Blackouts that have hit New York City and the Northeast over the years. We have had Blackouts in 1965, 1977 and 2003. I was a kid for the first one in 1965, and it was fun. For July 13th-14th 1977 I was with a girl, and it was romantic. The one on August 14th 2003 just flat-out sucked, lol! A sweltering Summer night with high humidity, and no way to get cool. I'll begin with the first one in 1965, which happened at 5:27 in the afternoon. So if you can, that is the recommended time to listen. For the real experience, please have all electrical appliances shut off and pulled out of the wall...except for what you need to listen to this Musical Exploration Of Power Failures of course! Let's Do Our Music in the Dark! I'll leave a candle in the window for you, lol!
Mike
Well, this is it, I wrap it up with the Saints. I had a ball going through my Music Library pulling out these songs for such an Unconventional Topic. I'll begin with an A-List Group you wouldn't expect to hear on a Saints show- never, ever with these bad boys...er...elderly gentlemen, lol! Then, a nice long set of music containing one (maybe two) Classics, a Gem, and one you may not know. Finally, our Concluding Tune will be the first song I thought of when this Series was just a germ of an idea. I thank you for coming along for the ride with me. Enjoy!
Mike
One week ago it was All Saints Day. I pulled out a bunch of songs in acknowledgement, and I am not the kind of guy to just put them back unplayed- there were too many good ones in there. However you feel about Saints is not important, although I would be shocked if you disliked them- there's no good reason for that. Believe or disbelieve, it's all just Music! And you have to admit, it was a challenging subject for a Rock & Roll Show. I promise you will be surprised by the number of Big-Name Musical Artists I have chosen for this Episode and the next.
Mike
St. Peter is a big-name Saint, he appears in very, very many songs, but sometimes you have to listen for it. That's the case with the first two songs in this Chapter. I'll finally get around to that All Saints Day/Halloween connection. When I do these Themes, I often go back mentally and try to think of the first song I can remember hearing about the selected subject. In this case what came to mind was the first Saint song I bought! It was quite by accident- the song was included on an Oldies album I bought many years ago, and certainly not the reason I purchased that album. Oh, and I did what I always do, I pulled out too many songs for just one hour. So this will be continued next week with some real good music that you probably thought I SHOULD have played THIS week, lol! But first things first, some surprises in here. Enjoy!
Mike
Rockollections falls terrestrially on November 1st, All Saints Day! It's a sort of Anti-Halloween show. And you should know that without All Saints Day, there is no Halloween! I will cover that, but mostly I'll take a Rock & Roll look at the Saints. Including the peculiar matter of St. Christopher, that patron of Safe Travel, being taken off the Saintly Roster. We'll have some fun with this, so I invite you to join me for these heavenly episodes!
Mike
I did Voodoo, now let's have some Hoodoo! And with all those spells, curses, etc. that we've been concerned with, I must warn you to watch out for Potions. Do I believe in this stuff? NO!!! But the mind is a funny thing! Trick Or Treat and Happy Halloween everybody!
Mike
It’s that scary time of the year again, Halloween. And time for a Rockollections Theme within a Theme. Voodoo! With all the casting spells, curses, dances and everything else that goes with Voodoo. Always for a good reason of course, lol! I will bounce through many Decades and Genres for the Music in here. Please join me! I don't want to be alone, lol!
Mike
It's The 60's Poets, and the Subject is Poverty. Any show of this sort must include Bob Dylan He's in here at his Poetic Best, and it may also be the Ultimate Namedropping Song in terms of not just the Quantity but the QUALITY of the Names Dropped! And I'll have another Dylan Song but not sung by him. I have no answer for Poverty, it will always be with us. The best we can do is Give A Damn! Have a listen to the Words!
Mike
This is the 4th in a Series of 5 Shows on Topics By The 60's Poets. This time the Subject is Poverty. Credit must be given to Scott Muni, as he did similar shows during his early years at WNEW-FM. And it made quite an impression on this young kid, my arranging for someone to tape the shows while I was in school. Some of the Best Lyrics Ever came out in the 60's. So lay back, get comfortable and listen to The Words! What they are saying- the Thoughts, Emotions and Stories Of Our Poets, on Poverty!
Mike
It's the final stretch of the Harvest Moon Ball, and it occurred to me that we had done a lot of Dancing, but hadn't paid any attention to those who Won't, Can't, or just plain Don't Want To Dance! So that calls for a musical acknowledgement of the NON-Dancers! Plus, and this happens occasionally, I will have TWO endings. Ending A is satisfactory and makes perfect sense. Ending B, well I couldn't abandon that one. I knew that was the one to end with from the first moment I thought of doing this Harvest Moon Ball. I ask you to please listen to the lyrics of that final selection. They express my wishes for ALL of you. This was a lot of fun for me, and I hope you had a ball at the Ball!
Mike
A Rocking start to this Chapter of our Harvest Moon Ball. And the most obvious, anticipated song will finally be played this time out. Suffice it to say I have Harvested some genuinely good Music that I would like to share with you. I really like the way this Part Three turned out. Hope you feel the same way!
Mike
Opening up this second chapter for our Harvest Moon Ball, a song that has been interpreted by very many artists and in many ways. I will play you the original version, a Rocker from 1958. Then I will play one of those interpretations- as the song is turned from a Rocker into a sultry Song Of Seduction, a remarkable transition. That will open a set of what I'll call Romantic Seductive Dancing. I will take you next to where the Fields and Farms are, beginning with a song I first heard about 10 years ago, and I like it more and more with each hearing. With too many songs to let go of, our Harvest Moon Ball will continue next week. Simply more good fun, nothing taken too seriously in a too serious world. Again, Let's Dance!
Mike
This is going to be fun, a Harvest Moon Ball! The Harvest Moon came very early this year, but occasionally it is in October. Before the invention of electric lights, for generations farmers knew that Full Moon as the Harvest Moon because it provided extra light after sunset enabling them to continue their harvesting. All this is reason enough for Dancing! It's close enough so you are Cordially Invited To Attend The Rockollections Harvest Moon Ball. Let's Dance!
Mike
This guy, ME, is attempting to just do a nice Free Form Radio Show, keeping in mind it’s all just Music and just a Rock Show! I have a Set of REDONE Songs we all should know in here. Then a tune that starts out nice enough, and if you're listening your ears perk up, and suddenly you are in a Coen Brothers Movie, lol! And more weirdness to end. Let's go On With The Show!
Mike
I am going to just play Songs with no Theme. My trouble is I tend to think in Connections, so maybe a wee bit of that. Here’s how I tried to select the Songs- they were close by, they should be played somewhere, and I LIKE them. On this particular day, this was where my head was at! Simple as that! Join me for a listen to the opening half of Free Form Radio Show #5!
Mike
I am going to open up this end of Back To Back To School with a question. A question regarding Teachers who use propaganda to brainwash kids, and although the song is from 1964, the situation has never been worse than it is today. Then it is on to how maybe the reason I hated school was because when you think about it, the whole day for a kid revolves around it, and being told what to do. So quickly the Rebel comes into our show, not unlike myself, making the Teachers mad. Got a few tunes about opposite sex attraction, and a terrific but obscure song by Chuck Berry that demonstrates the awful situation of how, if you go to school with your girlfriend, after you break up you still have to see her everyday, Finally, if you are anything like me, there was only one song to end with. And that’s the one I chose! Thankfully, for many of us, all this School stuff is from a distance. If you are living it, I am sorry for you, lol! Enjoy the music and keep on rockin’!
Mike
This was the 3rd week's show in a Series I was doing before I was so rudely interrupted. Never one to waste an idea, I had added songs, and a different time in Free-Form Radio brings different results. It is that most awful time of year again, resulting in going Back To Back To School, kicking and screaming! I will open with a school that I might...just might...have had fun attending. Continuing on with some good old Rock & Roll having to do with School. Then another fond look back, this time at those wonderful School Days. And I must emphasize that I mean the Time Period of our lives, NOT the actual tortuous hours physically spent IN School, lol! Have fun if you can!
Mike
This is Chapter Four. Taking time off for Vacation, I went to the Archives for a Series I did many years ago around this time of year, Back To School. While the spirit of the Show was the same, it had a different name, Rock Lives, and the Theme Song was different too. I had to physically go to the Radio Station, but the best part was working with my old pal Engineer Ken Stanley. Oh man we had fun! This time it's Bad Teachers, and then Teachers You May Like A Little TOO Much or Vice Versa! Come on in, the Music is fine!
Mike
This is Chapter Three. Taking time off for Vacation, I went to the Archives for a Series I did many years ago around this time of year, Back To School. While the spirit of the Show was the same, it had a different name, Rock Lives, and the Theme Song was different too. I had to physically go to the Radio Station, but the best part was working with my old pal Engineer Ken Stanley. Oh man we had fun! This time the Theme Within A Theme is Good Teachers. Join me for a Good Listen, lol!
Mike
This is Chapter Two. Taking time off for Vacation, I went to the Archives for a Series I did many years ago around this time of year, Back To School. While the spirit of the Show was the same, it had a different name, Rock Lives, and the Theme Song was different too, I was never happy with it. I had to physically go to the Radio Station, but the best part was working with my old pal Engineer Ken Stanley. Oh man we had fun! This time the Theme Within A Theme is Schoolgirls. Join me for a good listen!
Mike
This is Chapter One. Taking time off for Vacation, I went to the Archives for a Series I did many years ago around this time of year, Back To School. While the spirit of the Show was the same, it had a different name, Rock Lives! I had to physically go to the Radio Station, but the best part was working with my old pal Engineer Ken Stanley. Oh man we had fun! This opening salvo concerns the Death Row feeling I had after the summer off...and going Back To School! Give a listen and hopefully the fun we had will rub off!
Mike
With this whole Rat Race thing, the question arises, "Why do we do it?" For most of us, it is to get by, make ends meet. For others, it may be to get things, material things. Still others want to become rich. I'll have a brief look at them. Then it is on to that All Important Antidote To The Rat Race, The Need To Unwind! Maybe do a little Fishing if you can. So kick off your shoes and enjoy a Great Labor Day Weekend!
Mike
Labor Day is coming next Monday, we celebrate Working by Not Working, lol! It's time for a trip back to the Musical Rat Race. But it's easy to come back because the Race is always ongoing and there's a multitude of Songs about Work. And this is definitely a true Mixed Bag! So join me for another Fun Adventure In Labor!
Mike
Over the years I’ve played Summertime, that classic Gershwin tune from Porgy & Bess, by quite a number of Rockers. Billy Stewart, Big Brother & Holding Company, Rick Nelson, and many others. I found one that was a surprise. And rather than tell you, I’ll let you guess what Group it is. You have a legitimate shot at it, as they were very popular! I had a sudden urge to play some Summer Songs from my favorite Music Year, 1967. Warning: Obscurity Alert, lol! Then to close this Episode out, a few you should know. Please do enjoy this one!
Mike
Doing Summer Shows, there are certain Songs that are expected. I like the Unexpected. So I will do the Unexpected by playing a few of the expected, lol! Let’s all sing along! After that, time to get a little more adventurous, and a Song each from the 60’s, 70's and 80’s. It’s Summer Songs In The Summertime! Enjoy, I’ll do the work! Man, I need a nap, lol!
Mike
Starting with a song that has nothing really to do with Summer or Heat, I declare my Poetic License! Then it’s on to Heat. Similar to Hot, but to me a subtle difference. Three or four hours of Heat, and I am calling it a Heatwave, lol! It's the usual mix of Songs you know, don’t know and forgot you know! So give a listen and enjoy, no Sweat!
Mike
It has been a Hot Summer! And those who know me realize Summer is regarded as something I have to tolerate and get through to make it to Fall and Winter! With that kind of affection, I’ll begin with a Song I used for a Summer Show 10 years ago- it was how I felt then and feel now. Hot is the word to describe this annoying time of year, and Hot is what I will be playing- even your Stuff Gets Hot! I have to laugh- for all my griping, I am recording in Air Conditioning! Next up, Heat! Detect a pattern, lol?
Mike
This guy, ME, is attempting to just do a nice Free Form Radio Show, keeping in mind it’s all just Music and just a Rock Show! I'll begin with an old song from The Mickey Mouse Club of all things. You can't argue with the day it was broadcast but I am no Guest Star, lol! Then a couple of more Tunes about the Heat Wave. But the Centerpiece for this Episode is a not well known song by John Sebastian, who I consider one of the great American Songwriters, always literate and always tuneful. Or in this case Four Tuneful! I have wanted to play this song for years, I would forget to or overlook it. I won't spoil it any more, perhaps the length made it slip through the cracks, but if you have never heard it I do believe you are in for a treat! Give a listen to another Chapter of Free Form Radio Show #4!
Mike
I am going to just play Songs with no Theme, although I will complain about the Summer Heat! And I want to be a solid member of the In Air Conditioning Crowd, lol! My trouble is I tend to think in Connections, so maybe a wee bit of that. Here’s how I tried to select the Songs- they were close by, they should be played somewhere, and I LIKE them. On this particular day, this was where my head was at! Simple as that! Join me for a listen to the opening half of Free Form Radio Show #4!
Mike
It's the Final Chapter, and still there were songs left over! A few more New Century Whistling Songs. Then some Odds & Ends I knew I'd get around to, and hopefully there are some surprises in here for you. Beginning with a Song from 1955 that to me sounds like it could have been recorded anytime. Here's wishing you enjoyed this Musical History Of Whistling In Song Through The Years- naturally I couldn't play all of them. And thanks to all who stuck around for the entire Series! For me, it was a Labor Of Love!
Mike
Going through the years with Whistling In Songs, I can't very well leave out any decades, can I? And a strange thing happened in the 90's- Whistling seemed to stop, pretty much disappeared! But in the New Millennium it made a Comeback. Whistling Is Alive And Well! Besides, I want to continue to surprise you with just how many Whistling Songs there are, and how you may never have noticed. Plus there's simply Good Music in here!
Mike
Well we have established there WAS an International Whistlers Convention! So maybe my picking this year for the Series is the Perfect Time, Filling A Gap. And speaking of Perfect, I'll begin this Episode with perhaps the Quintessential Whistling Song of the 70's. No resting there, I'll move forward into the 80's. Something must have been wrong with me, I will play 3 Number One Songs- this from a guy who pays no attention to Hits, lol! The Series wraps up next week. It ain't over till it's over!
Mike
Two Good Questions that must be asked during this Series are, "Did The Beatles ever do a Song With Whistling In It? And how about The Rolling Stones?" I'll have the answers in here. We move into the 70's in this Chapter. I know that with many of these songs there is that Moment of Doubt. The feeling of Hey Wait A Minute, There Is No Whistling In That Song! Oh Yes There Is, LOL! Just give a listen!
Mike
More Whistling In The 60's, that Great Decade for it! And a large part of the Music Of The 60's was Folk, and later Folk Rock. Naturally I'll have some of that for you, as well as just some wandering around the Decade. At the end of this Episode, I skipped ahead a bit into the 70's for a Live Lost Classic from the old Fillmore East. But I do have a couple left from the 60's I will get to next week. Keep Whistling and Enjoy!
Mike
Well it's true, after 41 years The International Whistlers Convention has shut down. But with hope of reviving it in the future. So you are left with me for the Whistling, lol! This week it's Whistling In The 60's! You wouldn't think such a turbulent Decade with Vietnam, Civil Rights, Protests, Anti-War Songs, Generation Gap, British Invasion, etc. would be a time for it. But the 60's were one of The Greatest Decades For Whistling! Beginning innocently with the Premiere Of A TV Show in October 1960. Give a listen and enjoy!
Mike
Moving on with The International Whistlers Convention which may, or may not be, still going on in Louisburg, North Carolina. Rather than continue to move up the Ladder of Time, I thought I'd make a stop, a detour. There are Songs we grew up with from the Theater and Movies, whether consciously or not. In my case not willingly- as a kid I never liked Musicals, still don't really, lol! But these will not all be Musicals. Anyway that's where this Rockollections Bus is going. It's Whistling in Theatrical Productions and Cinema! Enjoy!
Mike
They have The International Whistlers Convention in Louisburg, North Carolina. For over 40 years, thousands of people from all over the world would come for Assemblages and Whistling Contests. But it seems the Historical Society sponsor has pulled out and there is no more Convention. Naturally it would be when I pick to do this Series I've been thinking of doing for so long, lol! That's not going to stop us, is it? Of course not! The joy of this Series will be hearing Songs you either forgot, or never noticed, had Whistling in them. And there is always the possibility you are hearing these Tunes for the first time. In any case, I invite you to join me for this Maiden Voyage. I can almost GUARANTEE this is going to be fun!
Mike
This is it, the Grand Finale to Mind Games- maybe the longest Series I have ever done! And this whole Chapter will be dedicated to the biggest, most elusive Mind Game of them all. Peace Of Mind! I had been thinking about this Theme for years and years. So maybe with such a buildup of songs I let it slip it away from me, maybe I overdid it. But I am satisfied with how it turned out, and hey, it's ONLY Music, lol! My thanks to those who listened to all or part of the Series. Come along for one last Episode, it may bring you a Brief Period Of Peace Of Mind!
Mike
It is back to Mind Games, and my Mind has certainly been active with them. Interruptions in a Series used to bother me, but no more- I welcome the break! A lot of Singles in here, more than half from 1967. 1967 was a good year for Mind Games, lol! Included Artists are Carly Simon, Knickerbockers, Box Tops and The Seeds! And from a 60's debut album, Side 1 ran like one track- the whole side- I have plucked a song that suits our purposes. To end this Chapter, a Song that will set the table for the forthcoming Finale. Join me for a rather psychedelic listen to Mind Games!
Mike
It's the 4th Of July, coming soon to a country near you, lol! With American Music for it. There is finally a Rocking Version of The Star Spangled Banner! I'll play it, and more. Wrapping up this Celebration Of America's Birthday with Songs that may have flown under your radar but are NAMED 4th Of July. Happy 4th everybody, and watch those fingers with the Fireworks! And Happy Birthday America, I Love You!
Mike
We couldn't be farther away from Independence Day and still be in the same week. But my commitment to Terrestrial Radio requires me to put the Show out now. As always, I try to present these Rockollections efforts with a slightly different look at things. Hopefully, that works out to a surprise or two for you. I was raised in a household where Love Of Country was very important- it is in my DNA. No matter what! Enjoy the Music, I'll do my thing!
Mike
I have been playing music for a lengthy Series called Mind Games, or as somebody might say, Head Games. A couple of favorites of mine to start. Then some Mind Games Destinations, particularly being Home, at least in your Mind! And these will be U.S. States...of Mind! This is a solid Chapter So I invite you to join me for a listen- notice I haven't said it's the End, lol!
Mike
Well we know one thing, when I sink my teeth into a Theme, I really do so. If I Only Had A Brain, lol! In this Chapter of Mind Games I will get kinda serious, with a look at the Sick Mind- the Suicidal Mind. The Mind playing Games with itself! I'll play a very controversial song from 1967. And of course concern for those with a Troubled Mind can cause you to have a Worried Mind. Some Jazz Blues for that, live from the Whiskey A Go Go. Give a listen, the Mind Games Bus rolls along!
Mike
Mind Games carries on with a pause for some more Thinking. And as all us Thinkers know, if you Think, you Forget! Included in this Episode are a couple of 1967 Singles- one British, one American. And ending with a Classic written by Tom Paxton that I have spoken about before. If you were a Folk Singer in the mid-60's you pretty much HAD to perform this song. But nobody expected what a British Rock Band did with it, reshaping and expanding it! I have gone into the dark recesses of my Music Library with this Mind Games Series. And I will continue to do so. Join me for some songs not heard in years!
Mike
I am back to Mind Games, with a song I had penciled in as a Chapter opener well before the death of one of the Artists! Then some Free-Form selections including one I felt embarrassed listening to as it played, and needed a quick Rocker to save myself, lol! Also included is a sort of fun Contrast, in which no Minds are actually Read. Even the Rolling Stones make an appearance, with a Hard To Find Song. All things considered, a solid entry in the Mind Games Series. Join me for a listen!
Mike
Continuing with more Songs Instrumental To Popular Music and Rock & Roll! I will again ease you into the Rockers after a maybe mellow set that is a Musical Travelogue without Words. Beginning with a man’s name I thought I’d never use, lol! It’s a funny thing about Instrumentals, they’ll stick in your head from childhood, leaving you wondering how you know them. And there are no words to help you out! I’ll play what I think is the First Monster Rock & Roll Instrumental from the ’50’s, that twangy guitar standing out proudly! After that, I’ll just let the Rockin’ Muse take me- some you’ll know, some you won’t. There will be more of these Instrumental Shows on an irregular schedule, moving up through the years as we go along- this is just Volume One! And there are more Words written here than you’ll hear, lol! This will be fun!
Mike
This is an idea that has been simmering for years, and I finally thought I’d go with it. Instrumentals have been around forever. And they have contributed greatly to Popular Music and Rock & Roll! You could say they have been Very Instrumental! Where to start? Well, for Our Music, obviously in the 1950’s. I’ll begin with Songs played on AM & FM, there was hardly a difference back then. Some of these Early Songs may now be considered Easy Listening, but you don’t get where you are today without a past, a History! And hang in there, trust me, I will glide us into Rock & Roll! Give a listen!
Mike
It is Mind Songs for Mind Games! I will be all over the place this Episode. Your Mind with Heaven, A Giant Step, Questions and Machines. And if you know me, the you know I like to end Shows with the Moody Blues! Get on the Bus with me, we have Stops to make! To be continued- it's taken my whole to get this far with Mind Games. I ain't gonna end yet!
Mike
Moving along as Mind Games carries on. I'll play some versions of a Bob Dylan song he wrote and recorded in 1964 but never released, all with their own stamp and style- and a slight Title change! Over the years, dozens have jumped on the song, and Dylan's Original finally came out on his Bootleg Series in 2010. Then I'll move to other things a person might Have On Their Mind! Join me for the usual Mixed Bag, it is the way my Mind works...or doesn't, lol!
Mike
In my attempts to bring you our music in a slightly different way, I thought it might be interesting to give a listen to some- just some- of the Rockers who served in the Military. In order to show no favoritism to any Branch of the Services, I will be approaching them in alphabetical order. In this Part Two, it's the Marine Corps and Navy. I believe there will be some surprises for you in these two chapters. This will be fun, but with an even more accompanying amount of deserved respect.
Mike
A little History about this coming weekend. Memorial Day, originally called Decoration Day, is a day of remembrance for those who have died in our nation's service. The Day is not about division. It is about reconciliation; it is about coming together to honor those who gave their all. In my attempts to bring you our music in a slightly different way, I thought it might be interesting to give a listen to some, just some, of the Rockers who served in the Military. In order to show no favoritism to any Branch of the Services, I will be approaching them in alphabetical order. In this Part One, it's the Air Force and Army. I believe there will definitely be some surprises for you in these two Chapters. This will be fun, but with an accompanying amount of deserved respect.
Mike
The Mind is what perceives, remembers, wills, reasons, makes decisions, and more. It is the Mind that enables us to THINK! And that is where I am going in this Chapter. Join me, it's Music For Thinking People! To be continued.
Mike
Mind Games continues with the Hippest Of All Trips! I am going Psychedelic! Included are a cryptically titled song by a group famous for them, and another people may have been wondering when I was going to play. Plus an Irish Psychedelic Band grossly overlooked and a Long Cut from Ultimate Spinach. Give a listen to a Series that's been in the back of my Mind for years!
Mike
It's Mind Games, and I thought I'd put a Theme Within A Theme. From time to time I do The Originals Shows- playing the Hit Version followed by the Original Version. In many cases, people don't know there was an Original! And so I thought I'd bring that to Mind Games. The idea came to me hearing it in the Echoes Of My Mind. Join me, I am sure there are some surprises in here!
Mike
Finally getting back to Mind Games after some time away- and all the while surrounded by 40,000 Headmen, lol! After some early Progressive Rock, Mind Games delves into The Blues. Included are Eric Clapton singing with John Mayall's Bluesbreakers (for his first ever lead vocal, and which he hated to do)! And Janis Joplin and the famous 1964 Typewriter Tape! Plus more naturally. Give a listen, for songs you forgot you knew and maybe a few you don't!
Mike
I'll continue with our Salute To Mothers for Mothers Day. As I talked about last Chapter, with more Mamas. Mama can be used for Mothers or, mostly in song, for a Sweetheart. Getting out my Poetic License, I will use it for Mothers. And Crazy Mamas- not dangerous Crazy, fun Crazy, lol!? There's more, and I’ll give the Final Word to David Roth. Remember that Song I started the show with? Happy Mothers Day to all who qualify!
Mike
As you know, this Sunday is Mothers Day. Some people go for the name Mama, but I am a Mom guy, always have been. And I’ll have a couple of songs for what Mamas do. If you are lucky and your Mother is still alive, treasure her! For I will take on the delicate subject of Mothers Passed- a fertile field for Music, particularly Country. I'll be doing my usual travel all over the Musical Map to celebrate the Sweetest And Best Ladies we'll ever know. If you like my Theme shows, you should enjoy this.
Mike
Priority business prevented me from continuing Mind Games this week. So this is a rerun of a Favorites And Guilty Pleasures show- Volume 5 from 2016. It's what it would be like if you came over to my house, sat with a beverage and I got to play some Songs for you. I have a Song in here you might remember that was finally released in True Stereo after decades! Also Tom Rush from that Trolling For Owls CD being as funny as I’ve ever known him to be. Then a song if you have never heard it, you will probably never forget it! A Time Honored Tradition in Folk Music taken to a level that borders on not being humanly possible...and done LIVE to boot! Closing with a Faretheewell from a guy sadly forgotten yet was so influential on the Village Folk Scene- he just didn’t like to tour. This is a good one, enjoy!
Mike
Priority business kept me from continuing Mind Games this week. So this is a rerun of a Favorites And Guilty Pleasures show- Volume 5 from 2016. It's what it would be like if you came over to my house, sat with a beverage and I got to play some Songs for you. By no means are these My Favorite Songs Of All Time or The Best Records Ever Made. They are simply Songs I grabbed that I Happen To Like or Have a Memory For Me! I had an Oldies Attack at the beginning of this Pt.1, I get them now and then. Respect The Elders, as Vin Scelsa used to say. Not the Same Old Same Old here, rather it’s True Free-Form Radio- just Music that caught my eye and ear. I invite you to join me for that almost extinct notion!
Mike
I realized I never distinguished between the American Kaleidoscope and the British one I played in Pt.1- it was the American. Continuing to play Mind Games with you and for you, I'll start with an old James Brown song. But done by The Who! That will be the beginning of one of the Strangest Sets I have ever done! Even I had to ask myself, was it All In My Mind, lol? Included in here is a cut from a very forgotten album made by most of the members of a disbanding Jefferson Airplane, joined by some pretty famous guests, the album being Baron Von Tollbooth And The Chrome Nun. Give a listen, if for nothing else just that Strange Set!
Mike
I have been thinking about this for years, so I finally sat down and said I am going to play some Mind Games! After an obvious start, I'll play the Original of an old song and then the Hit Version you'll know much better. It won't take you long to catch on to where I am going with this. Some are up front, in the Title even, others are in the lyrics. But it's fun with Mind Games- even a couple of Questions. Join me to Let Your Mind Roll On and maybe Have It Blown!
Mike
This is it, the Last Chapter of my big look at Spring and some of the things that come with it. And of course, it would be incomplete without a nod to those Green Thumb Folks who anxiously wait for Spring to get out into their Garden. After a brief trip back to my Folk Music Roots, an epic Rock & Roll song whose title sounds like Latin but I can assure you it is not. I took Latin for 3 years...it ain't that! As always, I hope you enjoyed this Series as much as I did presenting it. Happy Easter Everyone!
Mike
We have established a link between Spring and Love, and I will continue with some of that. I'll have some Love At First Sight songs for you. Then the thought that was triggered by the Dusty Springfield song I played...where she mentioned Going To A Dance. Do people go to Dances anymore? Used to be a great way to meet members of the opposite sex! Plus a listen to some Spring Activities, things that are Picture Postcard Perfect for the Season! I think you will like this Spring Episode. If you don't...oh even if you do...you can Go Fly A Kite, lol!
Mike
It's Spring, and to borrow from the poem "Locksley Hall" by Alfred Lord Tennyson, that's when a Young Man's and a Young Woman's Fancy Turns to Thoughts Of Love. That's the Theme Within A Theme for this episode. Of course, with Love and anything else, things don't always work out. Or it can be totally inappropriate, like an uncontrollable urge for a friend's girl- that's a definite no-no! But for the most part, I'll stay on the good side of Spring and Falling In Love. So why don't we just get all dreamy-eyed and Enjoy the Musical Ride?
Mike
It's a hormonal thing- an increase in energy, vitality and sexual appetite. And it's Spring Fever! Come on, we've all felt it! Women get it and can be the aggressors, but naturally I come at this from the perspective of a guy- nothing I can do about that. And in Spring, the Ladies are showing more skin. Providing me with the single best reason to take pleasure in the Season, lol! Skirts, dresses, legs, sexy clothes...what's not to enjoy? And Music for it all! Male or female, I think you'll like this Chapter.
Mike
One of the most noticeable things about Spring is the Sounds of Birds singing again. As you well know, they migrate South for the Winter. And the Swallows do indeed Return To Capistrano, all the way back from Argentina. That's some trip! So that's what we are dealing with in this Chapter. Both Artists and Birds Singing- as the Earth brings this Northern Hemisphere back around to a Season of rebirth, rejuvenation, renewal, resurrection, and regrowth. In other words, Spring! Sing along...and if you can't sing, Whistle like A Bird, lol!
Mike
Naturally now that I started this Spring Series, it was 23 Degrees with a Feels Like 15 last night here in NYC, lol! This Chapter the primary stop along the way is Springtime Daydreaming Laziness! Just find a comfortable place and position, and I'll do all the work. You need only listen. And enjoy...there's some good Music here!
Mike
I'll begin this Episode with a couple of Harmony Songs. After that, I will go very Old Progressive FM Radio DJ on you, if you were tuning in...oh, say in the early 1970's! Except for a very small group of people, I may be introducing you to these three songs in a row that deal with our Spring topic. It's a good example of what Free-Form FM Radio was like before computerized playlists! To close, I'll just throw up my hands and give in. Let It Be Spring- It Might As Well! Enjoy the Show, the Music and the Weather.
Mike
Spring is the only Season I have never taken a long Musical look at- I have done all the others. I like Spring, but also have mixed feelings about it, as unfortunately it always brings me to a hot Summer. I am a Winter guy! In both Halves of this Beginning show, I have even more of a Mixed Bag of selections than usual. But this is Free-Form Radio and reflects how I am feeling on any given day. Must have been something in the water, lol! Enjoy...I hope!
Mike
I am doing Songs Paul McCartney Gave Away.
Similar to a show I did years ago on Songs The Beatles Gave Away, but focused on Paul.
Mostly from his post-Beatles days!
Did you know Paul with wife Linda wrote a song for Peggy Lee?
You'll hear it, as well as Tunes he wrote for Rod Stewart, Roger Daltrey and of course another for old Bandmate Ringo Starr.
As well as co-writing a great one with Elvis Costello.
There are many many songs Paul gave away- these are the ones I, me, myself chose for you to hear!
So blame me, and I make no apologies!
This was all just for the fun of it, it's ONLY Music!
Join me for a listen, McCartney can write a song as easily as we make a sandwich, lol!
Mike
Quite a few years ago I did a show on Songs The Beatles Gave Away.
Now I thought I'd give a shot at Songs Paul McCartney Gave Away!
There will be songs from his Beatle days, but mostly later as a Solo Artist or with Wings.
And not to mislead you, some of these he Co-Wrote with others!
Now most people can name the Badfinger song right away, and think this is easy.
But after that...it gets a little tougher, lol!
There will be surprises in here- from a collaboration with a Beatnik Poet, and a Country Legend, to writing with and for Ex-Bandmates.
Give a listen, this is an unusual show!
Mike
It’s an Odds & Ends Get Together!
A very very loose show, just things that were near and caught my eye.
Let’s go get Stoned with some Songs you should know.
Mostly Sixties Music, but not all.
This is Volume 7 of Odds & Ends.
Collect them all, lol!
Mike
Here's one of those every now and then Odds & Ends Shows I like to do- no Theme!
But I do seem to find some Connections, lol!
I’ll start with one of the 2 songs Elvis recorded in his first real recording session at Sun Records Studios.
Because of a very busy week, this is a true Old-Fashioned Free-Form Radio Show- whatever was sitting close to me had a chance to be played.
A song I thought of for Presidents Day, a few thoughts I had during and after the Sunday Papers Series.
The most interesting thing in this opening half is a Song Journey from back in the 60’s.
A Song that went from hardly known, to a little known, and finally known!
Join me for a little something different.
Mike
By the time you read or hear this, it may already be or have been March 3rd, or 3/3.
Those 3's inspiring a Musical Listen to Three Of A Kind- which in Poker is a good Hand even if Deuces!
Just another of those ideas that pop into my head and send me scampering to see if I can do it!
In this final Chapter I'll do some Three Of A Kinds with Colors.
Then 3 Distinctly Different Three's Of A Kind, just to keep us off balance, lol!
And I'll give the Final Word to...well, give a listen and find out.
Join me for some Good Music, and have a Great March 3rd!
Mike
I noticed that we are just a few days away from March 3rd, or 3/3.
I didn't want to wait for it to fall on the day of the show- who knows where I'll be then.
Rather, the urge came over me to play songs now that were Three Of A Kind, things connected in a way directly or indirectly.
Sometimes the connection is the title of the Song, lol!
I'll start with Sex & Drugs & Rock & Roll- see the Three Of A Kinda Kind, lol?
After that, it's into the Time Machine and a trip way back to the early days of Rock & Roll!
Then we come back to the 60's thru the 90's, my usual comfort zone.
Give a listen, you'll catch on right away!
Mike
I'll finish up with the Namedropping for now, until it's brought back at some time in the Future.
This time it's Songs containing the Names of Classic Rock & Rollers!
I was thinking, the whole point of dropping names is that the listener KNOW the names, and who the people mentioned are.
You need a Sense Of History, which sadly seems lacking, shamefully unfashionable nowadays.
But even the novice should recognize these Names- there are some Rock & Roll Heavy Hitters in this Episode.
See how many you can pick out!
The man who writes the most songs about Radio and Autumn will be in here, singing about what it was like In The Days Before Rock & Roll.
And I'll close with one of my very favorite Bands.
But the important thing is you enjoy it.
Hope you do!
Mike
Let's do another round of Namedropping.
Beginning with a song that not only mentions the Mamas & Papas, Donovan and the Beatles, but features credible impressions of each.
After that, I thought I'd play the Namedropping of famous Artists and Composers of American Standards.
You'll have to trust me on this, I will be playing Rock & Roll Music!
And why wouldn't you trust me?
I've earned it, lol!
The fun for me here, is getting to play these songs especially for those of you who may never have noticed the Namedropping going on in them.
So join me, as I bring them to your attention.
Mike
More of The 60's Poets, and their Thoughts and Stories About Love.
The great thing about Poetry is that it is open to interpretation.
What it means to you can be entirely different from what it means to me.
And we are both right!
The intent with these Words of The 60's Poets was to touch you and make you remember a moment or two.
As well as listen to some Great Music!
Hope you had a Happy St. Valentine’s Day!
Mike
For St. Valentine’s Day a return to the 60's for The Poets.
And it should be obvious for Valentine’s Day this time it is Love!
This is something Scott Muni used to do in his very early years at WNEW-FM, and I will even have Scott introduce this show!
The 60's Poets were mainly found in the Folk and Folk Rock category, but not exclusively,
Like any Poem, these Songs Read Well Written Down On Paper!
I ask you to Please Listen To The Words...The Lyrics, on the Subject Of Love!
Mike
This will close the British Invasion out...for now.
It was too much fun and the Music was too damn good to just end it.
So I will return to it periodically.
But for this Chapter, I'll start with a song that was # 8 on the Billboard charts in 1965.
And I don't seem to have ever heard it!
How'd that happen, lol?
From there, some assorted and terrific songs that were part of that flurry that came over here and won the ears of many.
It seems to me that there would not have been a British Invasion without that one vital element-The Beatles.
So to end, a song not BY the Fab Four, but sort of ABOUT them!
And just what does that "sort of" mean?
I guess you'll have to listen to find out, lol!
Enjoy, I had fun with this.
Mike
On Feb. 9th 1964, the Beatles performed on the Ed Sullivan Show for the first time.
I watched it as a kid, and it's an odd feeling knowing what you did PRECISELY on a given date over a half century ago!
In fact, it's never happened to me before!
As I recall, it was the first of 3 consecutive weeks of appearances for those guys from Liverpool on the Sullivan show.
And I'll continue here with some more of the Original Artists who made their contributions to the British Invasion.
Enjoy the Music...it's History now, lol!
Mike
As noted before, on Feb. 7th 1964, the Beatles landed at Kennedy Airport met by reporters and mostly screaming girls, and Beatlemania and The British Invasion was born.
Those two terms may seem interchangeable now, but I'll point out the difference.
And the Beatles arrived for their appearance 2 days later, Feb. 9th 1964, on the Ed Sullivan Show- watched by a then record 73 Million viewers!
Remember, this country was still reeling from the Kennedy Assassination only two and a half months prior, so these charming Lads From Liverpool were a very welcome diversion.
For them, and for us, it was perfect timing.
And it seemed back then that if you were British, you had an advantage over our homegrown Artists in Rock & Roll and on the Radio.
But that takes nothing away from the Quality of their Music.
I will be proving that here, and continuing next week.
Let's get Invaded- this kind not only is painless, but it makes you feel good!
Enjoy!
Mike
On Feb. 7th 1964, the Beatles arrived at Kennedy Airport here in New York, marking the beginning of Beatlemania and The British Invasion.
Also making a whole lot of people feel very old this week, lol!
As it happened, I didn't like their first single but I did like the flip side.
And I never suspected that these 4 guys would be responsible for my lifelong love of Music!
Without the Beatles, I don't get nearly as deep into the Music as I have- Music before them, Music after them.
And of course, regarding that British Invasion, they weren't alone.
These Brit groups and artists had a fresh sound, giving a jolt to a too long stale and formulaic Rock & Roll scene here in the States.
It's a cliche, but you had to be there.
I invite you to join me for a listen to songs you will know, and some you may not, that after all these years hold up very well indeed!
Mike
The Name of the Game is Namedropping.
I will continue with some Folk and Folk Rock.
Featuring the most inveterate Namedropper of all time, Bob Dylan, who will Drop and be Dropped!
Plus you'll get to hear some of the Ladies take part in the game.
The fun is in the lyrics, seeing how many people you can identify- it's like a Musical Puzzle.
And this episode is so entertaining, you may even know a song or two, lol!
What can I say?- I just play what comes to mind.
That's what Free-Form Radio is!
But I do hope you will like this outing.
Mike
You have heard me mention Namedropping frequently over the years.
That's when a song contains a mention in the lyrics of a Musician, a Group, a Movie Star, a Politician...anyone famous and well-known.
You'll easily know what I mean after after a few songs.
I've been meaning to do shows with Namedropping songs for many years.
Finally doing this reminded me of the time I met fellow DJ Frank Todd for coffee, and he was stuck for a closing segment to his show.
I suggested Nameropping, and he took it, as we both kicked a few ideas around.
He gave me full credit, and I will even play his introduction where he did so.
Then it will be on to my own peculiar selections.
You see...Frank and I have vastly different styles, lol!
Enjoy!
Mike
This is it, the Final Chapter of Taking It To The Streets, we have reached the Dead End, lol!
I know I left some real good tunes out in the Series, but it's all up to the Muse.
In closing, for me these are songs I HAD to play!
And there is a good possibility you will know them all.
As always, I thank you for Roaming The Streets with me for All or Part of this Series.
I had a helluva time with the song I chose to End with!
The Original Version of the song is not as I remember it, not the one I grew up with on WNEW-FM, plus the Artist made 5 or 6 recordings of it!
Long story short, I had to find a Various Artists Vinyl Compilation it is on to satisfy my memory.
Join me, I like to do Themes, and it was fun getting here!
Mine
We are Back On The Street Again, Taking It To The Streets.
I am accepting Highway as a Street, at least it is for Cars.
You can't really walk on them, but they do connect Cities and Towns.
And it is about time we remembered the Street Musicians, playing their songs For Free!
Join me for an interesting trip along the Streets!
Mike
I'll begin this Chapter of Taking It To The Streets with some very early Who.
Then a Set of Fictional Streets, although who knows, maybe they exist somewhere.
After that, the centerpiece of this Episode.
At long last I am going to play a Legendary song from 1969 for FM Progressive Rock Stations here on the East Coast.
I remember Scott Muni playing it on WNEW-FM.
It is Gilbert Street by the group Sweet Thursday, and nobody ever plays it anymore.
If you have heard it, it will have those Synapses buzzing in your brain.
If you have never heard it, well all the more reason to give this a listen!
Mike
Now that the Holidays are over, I am returning to Taking It To The Streets.
Beginning with a song it's about time I played, in a Set of Real Existing Streets.
Then one that is Not Real but is inspired by a Real One in Atlanta.
And that one will set us up for Boogalooing Down One Of The World's Most Famous Streets- for a Soulful Stroll!
Join me for a listen, I think I can guarantee a good time...On The Streets!
Mike
This is Part Two- I didn't feel like writing, so it's essentially the same as last time.
This guy, ME, is attempting to just do a nice Free Form Radio Show, keeping in mind it’s all just Music and just a Rock Show!
Here’s how I selected the Songs- they have a memory for me, they were close by, they should be played somewhere, and I LIKE them.
And on this particular day, this was where my head was at!
Simple as that!
Paul Simon, Bill Deal and John Fogerty are among the Artists in here.
Meet Me On The Corner for a listen to a Rock Show!
Mike
I am going to try it again, just play Songs with no Theme, lol!
My problem is I always think in Connections.
This guy, ME, is attempting to just do a nice Free Form Radio Show, keeping in mind it’s all just Music and just a Rock Show!
Here’s how I selected the Songs- they have a memory for me, they were close by, they should be played somewhere, and I LIKE them.
And on this particular day, this was where my head was at!
Simple as that!
Nostradamus is a central figure in this Opening Chapter.
Join me for a listen to the Rock Show!
Mike
During the break, I committed to it and ran around and got some more songs for this Secular/Spiritual show.
Shows always reflect how I am feeling, so I go with the flow whatever the reason.
Starting with a Buddhist mantra!
These will be songs not so well known, but I like them, and somebody should play them.
And I will musically answer the question, am I a spiritual man?
To close, a little Classical Joy you might remember!
An Odd show, but then it started out as ODDS And Ends, lol!
Join me for a trip deep into the Music Library!
And Happy New Year!
Mike