Song of the Day: Pieces of Dreams, words by Alan and Marilyn Bergman, music by Michel Legrand, is from the 1970 film, in which the title track is sung by Peggy Lee, who was born on this date in 1920. Check out versions by Jack Jones, Shirley Bassey, Johnny Mathis (on "The Tonight Show"), Barbra Streisand, and an excerpt from Peggy Lee.
Song of the Day: No More Tears (Enough is Enough), words and music by Paul Jabara and Bruce Roberts, went to #1 in 1979 on the vocal strength of Two Divas kickin' butt (and a lousy man "out that door"): Barbra Streisand and Donna Summer. How appropriate that this duet, which ends our Donna Summer Tribute, contains the longest sustained note by a female artist (Streisand, 14 seconds) of any #1 hit on the Hot 100, when the song that started the tribute ("Dim All the Lights") contains the longest sustained note by a female artist (Summer, 16 seconds) of any Top 40 hit. It's hard to measure the influence of an artist on those who have followed. To be dubbed the "Queen" (not that one, great though he was) of a genre that some have viewed with disdain is a limitation, of course, because the work of Donna Summer transcended that era. Or maybe Disco itself has lived on. People stopped using the Dreaded D-Word to describe any popular dance recordings, but the genre's influence can still be heard (in house, techno. electronica and more). And Donna was The Queen; it's clear to this fan that later dance hit-makers, from Madonna to Beyonce to Lady Gaga, owe much to Her Reign. Today, after more than a week of looking back, we have "No More Tears" moving forward. And lots of dancing left to do; check out the single version, the extended version (from Streisand's "Wet" album), and the 12" extended mix (from Summer's album, "On the Radio: Greatest Hits, Volumes I & II").
Song of the Day: MacArthur Park, composed by Jimmy Webb, has been performed by many artists through the years, including one by an actor who first took it, in 1968, to #2 on the Billboard Hot 100 singles chart: Richard Harris (whose endearing performance as Albus Dumbledore in the first two "Harry Potter" films is captured in that tribute clip). Check out these other renditions: Waylon Jennings; Sammy Davis, Jr.; Stan Kenton; Woody Herman; Maynard Ferguson (my favorite jazz instrumental version); "Weird Al" Yankovic (spoofed as "Jurassic Park"); and Carrie Underwood on "American Idol" in 2005 (see 4:03-4:36), who famously quipped that she hadn't the faintest idea what the lyrics were all about! [YouTube links]. And then there's the seminal dance version by Donna Summer, recorded initially as part of a nearly 18-minute disco epic: "MacArthur Park Suite" [YouTube link] and released in 1978 as a stand-alone #1 Billboard Hot 100 and Hot Dance Club Play single [YouTube link]. I used to chuckle when she let out that Snoopy-like cry, which kicked off the thumping disco beat (at 01:49 here), but her version will always rock my dance floor.
Song of the Day: On the Radio, music by Giorgio Moroder, lyrics by Donna Summer, was recorded in 1979 by the singer for the soundtrack to the film, "Foxes." It is also featured in two versions on the singer's third consecutive #1 double-album, "On the Radio: Greatest Hits, Volumes I & II" (1979). Check out the single version, the longer "Greatest Hits" version, the extended 12" version, and a really nice compilation of the theme as it is heard throughout the 1980 film.
Song of the Day: Love is in Control (Finger on the Trigger) features the words and music of Rod Temperton, Merria Ross, and Quincy Jones, who produced the 1982 album "Donna Summer," on which this song appears. This enjoyable funky track went Top Ten on the Pop, R&B, and Dance charts. Check out the album version, the extended 12" mix, the Discotech remix, and a nice remixed cover version by Sheena Easton [YouTube links].
Song of the Day: She Works Hard for the Money, words and music by Donna Summer and Michael Omartian, is the title track to Summer's eleventh studio album and her biggest hit in the 1980s. It was also a #1 R&B hit, a huge pop hit in heavy rotation at the birth of New York FM Top 40 station, WHTZ (Z-100), and in heavy music video rotation on the relatively young MTV network. Check out the famed video, the album version, and an Eddie Baez remix [YouTube links].
Song of the Day: Bad Girls, words and music by the Brooklyn Dreams and Donna Summer, is the title track to Summer's 1979 album, which became a #1 pop, dance, and R&B smash. Check out the single version, the extended version, the famous medley with "Hot Stuff" and a nice live cover version by Jamiroquai [YouTube links].
Song of the Day: Hot Stuff, words and music by Pete Bellotte, Harold Faltermeyer, and Keith Forsey, is one of the "essential" Donna Summer dance hits, a rock-disco hybrid, electrified by the guitar work of Jeff "Skunk" Baxter. Summer got a Grammy Award for Best Female Rock Vocal Performance for this #1 hit from her 1979 album, "Bad Girls." Check out the single version, an extended version, and the Funky House Remix [YouTube links]. (And an honorable mention must go to the great Steve Allen, who did a hilarious reading of the lyrics to this song on a television special.)
Song of the Day: I Feel Love was written by Giorgio Moroder, Peter Bellotte, and Donna Summer, who propelled this driving synthesized track (from her 1977 album, "I Remember Yesterday") to its exalted status in dance music history, influencing later dance styles, such as house and techno. Check out the original album version, the 12" extended mix, the famous Patrick Cowley underground 15+ minute megamix, and covers by Bronski Beat, Blondie, Madonna, and the Red Hot Chili Peppers.
Song of the Day: Dim All the Lights was written and recorded by the "Queen of Disco," Donna Summer, the five-time Grammy Award winner who died today at the age of 63. Featured on her hugely successful "Bad Girls" album, this song, produced by Giorgio Moroder and Pete Bellotte, was a massive hit in 1979. Its classic balladic intro shifts into the disco beat for which Summer was so famous. And the gal had amazing pipes; she was raised on gospel and electrified fans with her remarkably powerful vocal gifts. This particular song, for example, contains the longest sustained note in an American Top 40 hit ever sung by a female artist. Tonight, however, we "Dim All the Lights," as they do on Broadway in mournful tribute when a star dies; it is posted in genuine sorrow over the passing of a legend, whose music I've always danced to and loved. For the next few days, I will be offering a tribute in song that celebrates the continuing influence of Donna Summer on so many of the kaleidoscopic sounds of pop music to this day. Check out this selection on YouTube: the single and the classic 12" extended mix.
Song of the Day: Cute, composed by Neil Hefti, is one of those familiar tracks that has been heard everywhere, thanks to the famous chart Hefti wrote for the Count Basie Orchestra, featuring the fabulous fills of drummer Sonny Payne, who was born on this date in 1926. The most memorable cinematic treatment of this tune, where one can see Music as Comedy and Comedy as Music, can be found in "Cinderfella"; watch how Jerry Lewis Does the Dishes.
Song of the Day: Keep On features the words and music of Hubert Eves III and James Williams of D-Train. The group scored a huge R&B and Hot Dance Club hit with this track. I highlight it today because it was the kind of groove in heavy rotation on one of my favorite urban contemporary FM stations of all-time: WRKS-FM (98.7 FM). Today is the last day that this FM station will broadcast; it merges with that other great urban contemporary FM outlet, WBLS-FM (107.5), making way for an ESPN sports station that has been broadcasting on 1050 AM (it will, for now. simulcast). KISS-FM was well known for its unforgettable Mastermixes (one of which I've already featured: "Must Be the Music"). So today, in tribute to KISS-FM, check out the classic Shep Pettibone Mastermix [YouTube link] heard on a station that I will truly miss. Keep keepin' on.
Song of the Day: Free Again (Non C'est Rien), music by Armand Canfora and Joss Baselli, French lyrics by Michel Jourdan, English lyrics by Robert Colby, is featured on "Je m'appelle Barbra" (1966), the eighth studio album of Barbra Streisand, who, today, turns 70. The album was arranged and conducted by the great Michel Legrand, who, on February 24th, turned 80 (a belated Happy Birthday to Le Grand Michel!). Listen to the English-language version of the song from the album, and the French-language version of the song [YouTube links], which was introduced on Streisand's third TV special, "Color Me Barbra" (which first aired on CBS on 30 March 1966). This is vintage Barbra; she remains one of my all-time favorite artists and one of the most accomplished artists of her generation. Happy Birthday, Funny Girl! Forgive me, I'm getting a little Verklempt!
Song of the Day: Forget Me Nots, words and music by Terri McFaddin, bassist Freddy Washington, and singer and pianist Patrice Rushen, received a Grammy nomination for "Best Female R&B Vocal Performance." This pop, R&B and dance hit from Rushen's album, "Straight from the Heart," includes a nice sax solo by Gerald Albright. The song has been covered and sampled by several artists (most famously, Will Smith for "Men in Black" [YouTube link]), but Patrice's version is tops for pure finger-poppin' pleasure. Check out her music video, the album version, the 12" dance mix, and a really jazzy live 2009 performance with guitarist Lee Ritenour at North Sea Jazz [YouTube links]. On a day when we lost "America's oldest teenager," at 82 years of age, we pause to celebrate the life of the irreplaceable Dick Clark, the Rock and Roll Hall of Famer who helped us embrace the promise of every new year with his New Year's Rockin' Eve specials, and who gave us countless productions and television shows, including the trailblazing "American Bandstand," on which Patrice Rushen performed this song (Season 25, Episode 29, airdate: 29 May 1982). We forget you not ... ever!
Song of the Day: Twilight Zone / Twilight Tone features the music of Bernard Herrmann (whose immortal "Twilight Zone" theme is used to great effect) and the words and additional music of Jay Graydon and Alan Paul, a member of The Manhattan Transfer, which scored a disco hit for this jazz-influenced vocal group. The song appears on their album, "Extensions," which includes the jazz-vocalese gem, "Birdland." Check out the original promo 12" mix and the Disconet Mix [YouTube links].
Song of the Day: Birdland was composed by Joe Zawinul, the keyboardist of the jazz-fusion group Weather Report, which recorded it for their seventh studio album, "Heavy Weather" (1977). Named after one of the great 52nd Street jazz clubs in New York City, which took its name from the nickname of be bop pioneer, alto saxophonist Charlie "Bird" Parker, it became a landmark Grammy-nominated jazz-fusion track. But the Grammy Award went to The Manhattan Transfer a few years later, for their jazz vocalese version of the celebrated track. The lyrics for the track were written by Jon Hendricks (of the always-fascinating vocalese group, Lambert, Hendricks, and Ross), though Eddie Jefferson had started writing lyrics for the piece before his untimely death. The Manhattan Transfer version appears on my favorite album of theirs: "Extensions." And the album is dedicated to Jefferson. In 1980, they received Grammy Awards for Best Jazz/Fusion Performance, Vocal or Instrumental for "Birdland" and for Janis Siegel for Best Vocal Arrangement for Two or More Voices, for the same recording. Check out the original instrumental classic by Weather Report and the equally classic vocalese version by The Manhattan Transfer [YouTube links].
Song of the Day: Raise the Titanic ("Suite") [YouTube clip at that link; Nic Raine, conductor], composed by the great John Barry for the 1980 film, "Raise the Titanic," gives us a kaleidoscope of the majestic, the poignant, and the reverent. On this date, at 2:20 a.m. UTC-3 ship's time, the Titanic sunk, having struck an iceberg, en route to New York harbor. Its survivors, aboard the Carpathia, would arrive at that harbor by 18 April 1912, greeted by tens of thousands of New Yorkers (check out an interesting 1929 flick: Titanic, Part 1 and Part 2 on YouTube). They may never "Raise the Titanic," but this act of "raising," of "resurrecting," is appropriately noted on a day that Greek Orthodox Christians celebrate Easter with the phrase "Christos Anesti" ("Christ is Risen"). We raise the spirit by keeping the memory of Titanic, resurrecting its history and meaning, even in song. And so ends our 6-day tribute on the occasion of the 100th anniversary of its sinking.
Song of the Day: Titanic: A New Musical ("In Every Age"), words and music by Maury Yeston, opened on Broadway in 1997 and went on to receive five Tony Awards, including Best Musical. Check out the Broadway cast album version [YouTube link]. My favorite version of this song, however, is a jazz interpretation by guitarist Frank DiBussolo. It can be found on his really nice 1998 album, "Titanic: A New Musical" [the amazon.com link provides a small sample of the piece]. So many other Titanic music projects are available and worthy of attention: "Disasters! The Disaster Movie Music Album" and "Titanic: The Ultimate Collection," both of which offer selections from several Titanic-inspired films; the lovely Alberto Iglesias soundtrack to "La Camarera del Titanic"; and a stupendous 4-disc set, "Titanic: Collector's Anniversary Edition," featuring James Horner's magnificent Oscar-winning score to the Cameron-directed film, which includes remastered versions of the two previous "Titanic" soundtrack albums, and 2 extra discs of music from the period (not to mention great liner notes and Titanic-White Star replica luggage tickets). Tonight, ABC presents the first part of a new miniseries, "Titanic," written by Julian Fellowes, co-creator of "Downton Abbey." Another 12-part BBC miniseries is forthcoming: "Titanic: Blood and Steel." It was on this date, at 11:40 pm, UTC-3 ship's time, that Titanic struck an iceberg. In a little more than 2 hours, it would sink.
Song of the Day: The Unsinkable Molly Brown ("I Ain't Down Yet"), words and music by Meredith Wilson, is featured in the 1960 Broadway musical, in which the lead character was played by Tammy Grimes, who won the 1961 Tony Award for Best Performance by a Featured Actress. The 1964 cinematic adaptation garnered six Oscar nominations, including a Best Actress nomination for Debbie Reynolds who became the feisty Molly Brown on screen. Born Margaret, though her friends called her Maggie, she is known to history as Molly. A traveler on the Titanic, she was the quintessential strong woman and suffragist who, in Lifeboat No. 6, exhorted the crew to return to the waters of death, in search of survivors. On screen, so many have portrayed her, including: the independent, playful, and feisty Kathy Bates in the 1997 Cameron blockbuster; the ever-effervescent Thelma Ritter, who is named "Maude Young" but is clearly Molly, in the 1953 film, "Titanic"; and Cloris Leachman played her twice: as Maggie Brown in a 1950s dramatization for "Television Time" [YouTube link to that episode], and in the television movie, "S.O.S. Titanic". Molly Brown survived the sinking of the RMS Titanic. No wonder the character sings this song as a celebration of The Unsinkable. No better day to note it than on Friday the 13th, which happens to be both Good Friday for the Eastern Orthodox and Opening Day at Yankee Stadium. Check out Tammy Grimes in the Broadway cast version [amazon.com sample] and, my favorite, Debbie Reynolds from the film version and (watch her inspire Titanic lifeboat survivors) [YouTube links]. You'll be singing: "Told Ya So! Told Ya So! Told Ya, Told Ya, Told Ya So!"
Song of the Day: Titanic ("Main Title") [YouTube clip at that link], composed by Lennie Niehaus, opens the 1996 4-hour CBS miniseries, starring Peter Gallagher, George C. Scott, Catherine Zeta Jones, and Eva Marie Saint. The theme manages to capture the grandiosity of the ship, while allowing us to reflect upon the ominous events yet to come.
Song of the Day: Titanic ("Main Title") [YouTube link to the film trailer], composed by Sol Kaplan (under the musical direction of Lionel Newman), is from the 1953 American film drama starring Clifton Webb and Barbara Stanwyck. The film won a single Oscar, for Best Writing, Original Screenplay. On April 11, 1912, one hundred years ago today, Titanic stopped in Queenstown, Ireland before embarking on its fateful voyage to America. This fine movie begins on YouTube here, and the "Main Title" is contained therein.
Song of the Day: A Night to Remember ("Main Title") [not that one], composed by William Alwyn, opens the very fine 1958 British film adaptation of Walter Lord's famous book of the same name (some of the film is available on YouTube). This particular cinematic take on one of the most definitive 20th century catastrophes stars Kenneth More, who, for me, is best remembered for his role as Young Jolyon in the great BBC series, "The Forsyte Saga" (1967). One hundred years ago on this date, Titanic began its journey, leaving Southampton in England and stopping in Cherbourg Harbor, France. Today begins our own six-day tribute to the fateful maiden voyage of Titanic. Among the multitude of provocative books on the subject is one written by my colleague and very dear friend, Stephen Cox, entitled The Titanic Story: Hard Choices, Dangerous Decisions (1999). So much music and so many films have also been inspired by this tragic event, starting with a 1912 newsreel [YouTube link], featuring its own poignant piano accompaniment. Cinematic presentations by filmmakers the world over have been presented throughout this past century: even the Nazis produced a movie, portraying the disaster as the inexorable result of sinister British capitalist greed (that 1943 German "Titanic" is actually pretty good as a film; some of its frames may have been used, without credit, in the 1958 British film highlighted here). As film scores go, I will never forget the great James Horner score to my favorite "Titanic" film of all time, directed by James Cameron. The 11-Oscar Award-winning "Best Picture" has now been re-released to theaters in 3D to mark the centennial occasion. Today, however, we turn to the majestic opening of "A Night to Remember" on YouTube, as we begin our own voyage into history, film, and music.
Song of the Day: Kiss on My List, words and music by Daryl Hall and Janna Allen, was a #1 Hot 100 single for Hall & Oates in 1981 from the album "Voices." Check out the original single with its melodic hook, an extended mix, and a duet with Daryl and Rob Thomas. And so ends our mini-tribute to H&O.
Song of the Day: I Can't Go for That (No Can Do), words and music by Daryl Hall, John Oates, and Sara Allen, was a #1 Pop, R&B, and Hot Dance Club track recorded by Hall & Oates for their 1981 album, "Private Eyes." This smooth "blue-eyed soul" recording has had a huge impact on popular music; it has been sampled on countless dance and hip hop tracks and its influence can even be found on "Billie Jean" (check out Daryl Hall's memories of Michael Jackson). Here are YouTube links to: the original music video, the extended 12" mix, another extended mix, and Daryl with Canadian electro-funk duo Chromeo.
Song of the Day: Maneater features the words and music of Sara Allen, Daryl Hall, and birthday boy John Oates, who came into this world on this date in 1949. This has always been among my favorite Hall and Oates tracks; so in the next couple of days, I'll do a mini-H&O tribute. Check out the original version and music video of the song on YouTube, which appears on the album "H2O".
Song of the Day: Glory Days, composed and performed by "The Boss," Bruce Springsteen, appears on his huge hit album, "Born in the U.S.A." It's the perfect way to kick off the New York Yankees' 2012 baseball season, which begins today in Florida against the Rays. Check out the terrific baseball-inspired video on YouTube. And Go Yanks!!!
Song of the Day: Meet the Mets, words and lyrics by Ruth Roberts and Bill Katz, is the fight song of the New York Mets, who open their 2012 baseball season today at Citi Field. I'm a diehard Yankees fan, but I have to admit . . . uh, I actually have always liked this theme from the cross-town rivals. Play ball! And check out the Mets song [YouTube link].
Song of the Day: You Stepped into My Life features the words and music of Barry, Robin, and Maurice Gibb, otherwise known as The Bee Gees, who recorded the song in 1976 for their album, "Children of the World" (it was also included on the "Bee Gees Greatest" hits package in 1979). Check out renditions by The Bee Gees, Wayne Newton (who, in October 1979, took the song to #90 on the Billboard Hot 100!!!), and, my favorite by far: Melba Moore (who, in February 1979, took the song to #47 on the Hot 100 and #5 on the dance chart) [YouTube links].
Song of the Day: Days Go By, words and music by Victoria Horn and Steve Smith, is the Dirty Vegas recording that received the 2002 Grammy Award for "Best Dance Recording." The infectious track is best known for its use in a famous Mitsubishi commercial; also check out this hot mix, the Paul Oakenfold remix, the Mimosa remix, and the Jimmy Fallon MTV commercial parody [YouTube links].
Song of the Day: Unison, words and music by Andy Goldmark and Bruce Roberts, was first recorded in 1983 by Junior for the Tom Cruise film, "All the Right Moves." Laura Branigan and Lory Bianco also recorded versions before the song became the title track from the English-language debut album of Celine Dion. That album was released on this date in 1990. It is one of my favorite uptempo Celine Dion songs. Check out the various renditions: Junior [YouTube link], Laura Branigan [amazon.com sample], Lory Bianco, and the Celine album track, the Celine dance version (my favorite), and the Kevin Unger remix, featuring rapper Frankie Fudge [YouTube links].
Song of the Day: What a Fool Believes, words and music by Kenny Loggins and Michael McDonald, won a 1979 Grammy Award for "Record of the Year" for The Doobie Brothers. The song was featured on their album "Minute By Minute" (their original drummer, Michael Hossack, passed away last month). Michael McDonald sings lead on that recording and one of the backup singers may have been Michael Jackson [YouTube link]. One of the few #1 non-disco hits of that year, it was remixed at the time by Jim Burgess for the dance floor [YouTube link] and has been remixed several times since [YouTube links]. But check out YouTube for the Grammy-winning original, a Kenny Loggins version (released on "Nightwatch," five months prior to the Doobie Brothers' rendition), a nice 1993 live duet by its songwriters featured on "Outside: From the Redwoods" and, finally, a rendition by the Queen of Soul, Aretha Franklin [YouTube links]. Only a fool would believe that I would only post this particular song on this particular day. But it really is one of my favorites!
Song of the Day: Tuxedo Junction features the lyrics of Buddy Feyne and the music of Bill Johnson, Julian Dash, and Erskine Hawkins, who first recorded this song with his orchestra [YouTube link]. But its most famous rendition was the smooth, slow, finger snappin' version of the Glenn Miller Orchestra [YouTube link]. Check out other versions as well: the Harry James Orchestra, The Manhattan Transfer (turning it into their own theme song), and Joe Jackson.
Song of the Day: Billionaire features the words and music of Ari Levine, Philip Lawrence, Bruno Mars and Travie Lazarus McCoy, who recorded the track for "Lazarus," his first studio album. With clever rapping by McCoy and the smooth vocals of Bruno Mars, I can't think of a more appropriate song to feature on a day when the country is crazy for the Mega Millions Lottery, with the largest jackpot in history now roaring past half-a-billion bucks. Hey, You Never Know! So while you're waiting for the winning numbers, check out the music video to this cool song, a Danyo Wallem remix (Explicit Content Warning!), and a "Glee" cast version as well.
Song of the Day: Make 'Em Laugh, music by Nacio Herb Brown, lyrics by Arthur Freed, is from the 1952 movie musical, "Singin' in the Rain," #1 on AFI's 100 Years of Musicals. The film opened 60 years ago this week at Radio City Music Hall. This song, closely based on Cole Porter's "Be a Clown," was performed with daring enthusiasm by Donald O'Connor in the film [YouTube link]. What a movie moment!
Song of the Day: Synchronicity II, words and music by Sting, is a companion piece to "Synchronicity I," from The Police album, "Synchronicity." The song includes everything from a Jungian motif to the Loch Ness Monster. Check out this driving rock gem on YouTube.
Song of the Day: Synchronicity I, words and music by Sting, is featured on the stupendous album "Synchronicity," recorded by The Police. Anyone who isn't bopping with this hard-driving track just doesn't have a pulse; check it out on YouTube.
Song of the Day: Love Has Come Around, words and music by William Duckett, peaked at #4 on the 1981 Billboard Dance Chart. It was recorded by Donald Byrd's 125th Street, NYC Band for the album "Love Byrd," produced by Isaac Hayes. Initially a bop horn player, Byrd was a pioneer fusion artist, who has blended elements of jazz, funk, and soul, of which this selection is a prime example. Check out this smooth track with its memorable hook on YouTube here and here. And check out a few latter day remixes: Pink City Remix and DJ Cris Funk.
Song of the Day: I Didn't Mean to Turn You On, words and music by Jimmy Jam (James Samuel Harris III) and Terry Lewis, was a 1984 Top Ten R&B hit by Cherrelle. The music video features an homage to the 1933 blockbuster, "King Kong" [YouTube link]. A year later, Robert Palmer recorded his own version (following a trajectory similar to "You Are in My System"). The track appears on his album, "Riptide," and in a video featuring The Girls, prominent in other Palmer solo hit videos. Check out the Palmer music video and the extended video, as well as a live "American Music Awards" performance [YouTube links]. Mariah Carey also did a version of the song for the film "Glitter" that was faithful to the original Cherrelle arrangement. The soundtrack was released on September 11, 2001 (not a good sign, apparently). Check out this "Glitter" film excerpt and the soundtrack version [YouTube links]. But I still love the original full-length version that appears on Cherrelle's self-titled album [YouTube link].
Song of the Day: You Are In My System features the words and music of David Frank and Mic Murphy, who founded the band, The System. This 1982 electro-funk track reached the Top Ten on both the R&B and Dance Club Play charts, and was remade into a Mainstream Rock hit by Robert Palmer a year later. Still, my favorite versions are the percolating original 7" (the video features Mic Murphy looking a little like MJ, if you ask me) and 12" extended mixes [YouTube links]. Check out Palmer's fun remake, extended version, and an Eric Kupper Def remix, and The System's Kerri Chandler House Mix and Atmospheric Spanish Vocal House Mix as well.
Song of the Day: This is My Night, words and music by David Frank and Mic Murphy, is a selection on the fifth solo album of the only Chaka Khan: "I Feel for You." Coming on the heels of the humongous title track hit from that album, this song went to #1 on the Hot Dance Club Play Billboard chart, 27 years ago this month. I loved remixing this track for the dance floor, and it remains one of my favorites from the enormous Chaka corpus. Listen to the original album version, the 12" remix. and the video version [YouTube links]. Back in 1953, on this date, Chaka Khan was born. So this is your night and your day, Chaka: Happy Birthday!
Song of the Day: Love After War, words, music, and performance by Robin Thicke, is the title track to the artist's fifth studio album. Oozing with seductive soul, the track has a sound that reminds me vaguely of "Nite and Day" by Al B. Sure! The comparison is all the more freaky because another artist, Raheem DeVaughn, actually did a cover version of "Nite and Day" [YouTube link] on a 2009 mixtape prequel to his "Love & War MasterPeace" project. Hmmm, I'm Sure there is some kind of "love" and "war" conspiracy going on! Either way, I really love the Thicke song. Take a look at the very sexy official music video and a live "Jimmy Kimmel Live" performance.
Song of the Day: Nite and Day [not that one] features the words and music of Kyle West and Al B. Sure!, who sings this seductive #1 R&B hit on his 1988 album, "In Effect Mode." It has the kind of "sleaze beat" Quiet Storm sound appropriate for "grinding music" and its related activities. Check out the irresistibility of the original single [YouTube link]. With night and day of approximately equal length around this time of the vernal equinox, there's no better moment for a little lesson from the Old School of New Jack Swing.
Song of the Day: There'll Be Another Spring features the words and music of Hubie Wheeler and Peggy Lee, who sang this song famously with pianist George Shearing (see here too for another version) [YouTube links]. And check out jazz vocalist Diane Reeves [YouTube link], a version that appears on the soundtrack for the 2005 film, "Good Night, and Good Luck." A Happy Vernal Equinox to All; as of 1:14 a.m. EDT today, it's officially Spring for us Northern Hemisphere folks, though if you ask around New York City, most will tell you that we hardly had a winter.
Song of the Day: The Groove Line features the words and music of Rod Temperton, who would later compose such classic Michael Jackson hits as "Thriller." This song was one of the best dance tracks of 1978, recorded by the R&B-funk-disco band, Heatwave for their album, "Central Heating." Check out the single version and the extended 12" version, and "leave your worries behind . . ."
Song of the Day: Inner City Life features the words and music of electronic music master Goldie, Rob ("Timecode") Playford, and Diane Charlemagne, whose voice caresses this classic drum and bass track. It is taken from the title track of the album "Timeless," in which jungle, breakbeats, and atmospheric ambient sounds blend seamlessly with symphonic strings, jazzy inflections, and soulful vocals to produce a wondrous cross-fertilization. Listen to the full 21-minute piece from which this song emerged, and then check out these various mixes: Classic Drum & Bass, Roni Size and DJ Krust Remix, Baby Boy's Edit, Rabbit's Short Attention Span Mix, the Rabbit in the Moon Mix (courtesy of the great Paul Oakenfold), and a jazz-inspired remake featuring vocalist Jhelisa Anderson [all YouTube links].
Song of the Day: Let's Fall in Love, words and music by Harold Arlen and Ted Koehler, has been recorded by many performers, from Eddy Duchin to Diana Krall [YouTube links]. It has also been recorded by Irish American jazz musician Gerry Mulligan, perhaps the leading baritone saxophonist in all of jazz history. One of my favorite versions of this sweet selection from the Great American Songbook is from the album "Getz Meets Mulligan in Hi-Fi," a stupendous meeting of two legendary saxophonists, who switch it up on this delightful track: Getz plays the baritone, instead of his classic tenor and Mulligan plays the tenor [YouTube link]. Happy St. Patrick's Day!
Song of the Day: The Typewriter, composed by Leroy Anderson, is one of those twentieth-century orchestral pieces that brings a smile to one's face. Today, it's posted in honor of the birthday of a comedic genius, Jerry Lewis, who was born on this date in 1926. If part of comedy is timing, then here is Exhibit A on the wonder of exquisite timing: Jerry Lewis performing this piece, from the 1963 film "Who's Minding the Store?" and also on the Colgate Comedy Hour. Happy Birthday to one of the greats!
Song of the Day: Che La Luna Mezzo Mare is an Italian folksong composed, it is said, by Paolo Citorello, but infinite variations of the song have been heard throughout the years. Growing up in the Sciabarra household, we heard the bouncy Louis Prima-Keely Smith version [YouTube link], with its funny double entendres sung in both Italian and English. Other memorable versions have been performed by Rudy Vallee, Lou Monte and Dean Martin [YouTube links]. But the most memorable cinematic take is at the wedding of the daughter of Don Vito Corleone (played by Oscar-winner, Marlon Brando) in the original Mafia Family Values Movie: "The Godfather," the Oscar-winning Best Picture, my all-time favorite gangster film, an epic crime drama directed brilliantly by Francis Ford Coppola. At the wedding, Mama Corleone (played by Morgana King) is invited to the stage to begin the verses of the classic song; an old man, not unlike many I've seen at countless Italian weddings that I've attended since childhood, gets up, and completes the verses with the kind of hilariously perverse body language that the song inspires. How appropriate to note this song today, for 40 years ago, on this date, on the Ides of March in 1972, "The Godfather" had its U.S. debut. Yes, it has a haunting Nino Rota soundtrack. But it also has a "Che La Luna" wedding scene [YouTube link].
Song of the Day: I've Got the Music in Me features the words and music of Tobias "Bias" Boshell, who was the keyboardist for The Kiki Dee Band, which released this as the title song off its 1974 album. I loved the song when I first heard it; my sister-in-law, Joanne Barry, used to give a rousing performance of it in the NYC cabaret circuit too. Check out these versions: the driving rock-oriented original Kiki Dee Band rendition [YouTube link]; the full-voiced R&B diva, Thelma Houston [YouTube link]; a jazzy Aretha Franklin, who sang it with superb jazz horn player Clark Terry on "Sweet Passion," her 1977 album. A snippet of it is heard over the closing credits of HBO's wonderful documentary, "The Music In Me" (check it out at 27:37). And finally, check out sexy Jennifer Lopez, who provides a beat-heavy version for her current Kohl's Department Store commercials [YouTube link].
Song of the Day: Stay with Me Tonight, words and music by recently deceased Brooklyn Technical High School graduate Raymond E. Jones, was a huge R&B hit for the talented musician Jeffrey Osborne, the title track of his terrific 1983 solo album. Check out this smooth and funky track on YouTube and the extended remix as well.
Song of the Day: International Love, words and music by Armando C. Perez ("Pitbull"), Carsten Shack ("Soulshock"), Peter Biker, Sean Hurley, and Claude Kelly, is a really catchy dance track from "Planet Pit," the sixth studio album from rapper Pitbull, and it features an infectious melody line delivered by Chris Brown. Check out the Official Video, as well as the Jump Smokers Remix and the Daniel Ngo Remix.
Song of the Day: Runaway Baby, words and music by Bruno Mars and Brody Brown, is featured on "Doo-Wops and Hooligans," the debut album of the talented Bruno Mars, who has dashes of Little Richard, Elvis Presley, James Brown, Marvin Gaye, and Michael Jackson in him. This song [YouTube link] harks back to old time rock 'n roll. His performance of the song on "The X Factor" [YouTube link] and on the 2012 Grammy Awards [YouTube link] show off his James Brown moves, his infectious energy, and his indisputable charm. At the Grammy's, he also gave a shout-out tribute to Whitney Houston. And he routinely tributes Michael Jackson, another pop legend gone too soon; check out YouTube links to his performances of "I Want You Back," "Billie Jean," "Beat It," "The Way You Make Me Feel," and "Dirty Diana."
Song of the Day: It's Not Right But It's Okay, words and music by LaShawn Daniels, Rodney Jerkins, Fred Jerkins III, Isaac Phillips, and Toni Estes, is featured on the 1998 Whitney Houston album, "My Love Is Your Love." My all-time favorite uptempo Whitney track remains "Love Will Save the Day," especially the original album version (check out, as well, the Disconet remix, which builds on the original). And my all-time favorite Whitney ballad is "Saving All My Love for You," with "I Have Nothing" a close second. But this one is my absolute all-time favorite dance remix of any Whitney Houston song. The original track [YouTube link] is transformed into a scalding #1 Billboard dance chart hit by Thunderpuss [YouTube link], a testament to the raw power of a well-done remix, the sheer talent of a remixer, and a stellar example of the reason for having a non-classical Grammy remix category. As we close out our Whitney Houston dance music tribute, check out these various greatest hits medleys, which include some very popular songs not highlighted here over the past 10 days: the 1988 Whitney Houston Disconet Medley, another 1980s medley, the 2008 lovetoinfinitymegamix, the 2009 Ulti Megamix, the x2party megamix, the 2011 D.G. Megamix Medley, and another Megamix, Part 1 and Part 2. Excuse me now, 'cuz "I Wanna Dance With Somebody." RIP, Whitney.
Song of the Day: Million Dollar Bill, words and music by Alicia Keys, Kasseem "Swizz Beatz" Dean, and Norman Harris, is a song from Whitney Houston's seventh and final studio album, "I Look To You." A sample from "We're Getting Stronger" by Loleatta Holloway [YouTube link] is featured in the original mix; check out a really nice Freemasons Club Mix as well.
Song of the Day: Same Script, Different Cast, words and music by Stacey "Dove" Daniels, Shae Jones, Anthony "Shep" Crawford, and Montell Jordan, is a supreme Diva Duet from "Whitney: The Greatest Hits" (2000), featuring Whitney Houston and Deborah Cox [nice link where Cox reminisces about Houston]. Sporting a Fur Elise sample is the original mix [YouTube link]; also check out the Jonathan Peters Vocal Club Mix, which helped to propel the track to #4 on the Billboard Dance Chart.
Song of the Day: If I Told You That, words and music by LaShawn Daniels, Rodney Jerkins, Fred Jerkins III, and Toni Estes, is a duet by Whitney Houston and George Michael. The original version of this song [YouTube link] appeared on "My Love is Your Love," as a solo Whitney track. But the duet featured on "Whitney: The Greatest Hits" (2000) provided nice interplay between the two artists. This particular track never scored on the Billboard Dance Chart, but its "sleaze-beat" (a slower but still very danceable Beats-Per-Minute tempo) provides a lot of chill spaces for sexy moving. Check out the video, the smooth Johnny Douglas Mix, and Nic Mercy's Bavaro Beat Mix.
Song of the Day: Could I Have This Kiss Forever, words and music by Diane Warren, a duet by Whitney Houston and Enrique Iglesias, is a Latin-tinged dance track from "Whitney: The Greatest Hits" (2000). The original track never hit the Billboard Dance Chart, but it provides the kind of chill rhythmic pulse best for sensual dancing. Check out the original video version, the Tin Tin Out Mix, and the housed-up HQ Video Club Mix.
Song of the Day: It Isn't, It Wasn't, It Ain't Never Gonna Be, words and music by Diane Warren and Albert Hammond, is a fun 1989 duet featuring Whitney Houston and Aretha Franklin, from the latter's album, "Through the Storm." For the next few days, we turn to a few of my favorite beat-friendly duets in the Whitney canon. Check out the New Jack Swing feel of the original and the remix, and the 1999 Nic Mercy house remix.
Song of the Day: I Learned from the Best, words and music by Diane Warren, appeared as a ballad [YouTube link] on the artist's fourth studio album, "My Love is Your Love." But slammin' remixes by Hex Hector [YouTube link] and Junior Vasquez [YouTube link to the Disco Club Mix] (for which Houston re-recorded her vocals) propelled the track to #1 on the Billboard dance chart.
Song of the Day: I'm Your Baby Tonight, words, music, and production by L. A. Reid and Kenneth "Babyface" Edmonds, is the finger poppin' title track to Whitney Houston's third album and the artist's 8th #1 pop hit. Now, while I'm often a lover of remixes, this track's dance remix [YouTube link] just does not compare to the original album mix [YouTube link], with its slick shuffle beat.
Song of the Day: So Emotional, words and music by Billy Steinberg and Tom Kelly, was a #1 dance hit from Whitney Houston's second album. Check out the official music video, the original 12" extended remix, the David Morales Club Mix, the mammoth 11+ minute David Morales Emotional Club Mix (from "Whitney: The Unreleased Mixes") and a mash-up with "Black or White," by the late Michael Jackson. This was a memorable track that I mixed and remixed at weddings, engagement parties, bar mitzvahs and class reunions, when I was a mobile DJ, or, uh, "Dr. DJ," as they used to call me. "Ain't it shocking what love can do."
Song of the Day: Thinking About You, words and music by Kashif and La La, was a Top Ten R&B radio hit (not released to pop radio), and the first song by Whitney Houston to score on the Billboard dance chart, peaking at #24. It was featured on the artist's self-titled debut album. Houston passed away last month, and many have paid tribute to her in the weeks since. Today begins my own 10-day tribute. These are some of my Whitney favorites, with a twist. The artist was very well known for her power ballads. But we'll be "thinking about you," Whitney (and your cast of producers and remixers), and some of the great dance music moments you gave us. Having done a lot of DJ'ing back in the day, I spun Whitney's tracks on my turntables regularly, packing many a dance floor. This particular track can be heard in its wonderfully rhythmic original album version, a Bruce Forest extended dance mix, Ricky Be's Hard House and Trance remix, and the M-phasis RMX.
Song of the Day: As Time Goes By was written by Herman Hupfeld in 1931 for the Broadway musical, "Everybody's Welcome." But it is eternally enshrined in the minds of cinema fans worldwide for its appearance in the 1942 film, "Casablanca," starring Humphrey Bogart and Ingrid Bergman. Dooley Wilson, "Sam" in the movie, plays it, and plays it again (even if "Play it Again, Sam" is never actually uttered by Bogie). Speaking of "time," this is officially Leap Year Day, when, every four years, we add a day to our calendar. And it's also the end of Film Music February, our month-long tribute to film music. Take a look at two Dooley Wilson YouTube moments here and here. And check out instrumental versions by jazz violinist Stephane Grappelli and classical guitarist John Williams. Here's lookin' at you, kid.
Song of the Day: Planet of the Apes ("Main Title" / Various) [excellent YouTube soundtrack montage at that link] features the futuristic sounds of Jerry Goldsmith, who provides the perfect musical complement to one of the most remarkable sci-fi films, with one of the most chilling, twisted endings, in cinema history. I loved this movie when I first saw it in 1968, and it has been a favorite ever since. And when I was 13, I remember going to the Sommer Highway Theater in Gravesend, Brooklyn, and seeing all five "ape" movies in a 1973 marathon upon the release of the fifth and final film in the original series: Planet of the..., Beneath the Planet of the..., Escape from the Planet of the..., Conquest of the Planet of the..., and Battle for the Planet of the... Apes). On that day, the Planet of the Apes franchise gave us 5 films for the price of 1. "Young man, in my day, we saw those films in a theater that was not a multiplex." God, do I sound old. One more thing about Jerry Goldsmith: he studied with Miklos Rozsa at USC. In his teens, Goldsmith recollects that it was "Spellbound" in 1945 that put him upon his life's path. That film featured two things with which he fell in love: Rozsa's Oscar-winning score and the great actress Ingrid Bergman. From that point on, he sought a career in film score composition and sought to marry Ingrid. As he put it in later years: 'One out of two wasn't bad.'
Song of the Day: I Fall in Love Too Easily, music by Jule Styne, lyrics by Sammy Cahn, is from the 1945 film, "Anchors Away," where it was introduced by Frank Sinatra [YouTube link]. The musical director Georgie Stoll received an Oscar for the Scoring of a Musical Picture, and this song received an Oscar nomination for "Best Original Song" (losing out to Rodgers and Hammerstein's gem, "It Might As Well Be Spring"). Check out versions by Keith Jarrett and Anita O'Day. One of my favorite versions of this standard can be found on "Cloud 7" [YouTube clip at that link], an early Tony Bennett album, featuring the trailblazing jazz guitarist Chuck Wayne, who was born on this date in 1923, and served as Bennett's musical director and accompanist from 1954-1957. The trumpet solo here is by Charles Panely. (And three cheers to host Billy Crystal for some truly hilarious moments at the 84th Annual Academy Awards last night; to Meryl Streep for finally getting Oscar #3, after nearly 30 magnificent acting years since Oscar #2; and to Zach Galifianakis for the Best Zinger of the Night in presenting the Oscar for "Best Original Song," today's highlighted category.)
Song of the Day: Twentieth Century Fox Fanfare (with CinemaScope Extension) [YouTube clip at that link] is one of the most recognizable, robust, and regal fanfares in all of cinema and it was written by the immortal Alfred Newman. There's no better way to provide a drum roll for tonight's 84th Academy Awards, hosted by the guy who has been my favorite host throughout the years: Billy Crystal. (Our Movie Music Month continues until Leap Year Day.)
Song of the Day: The War of the Worlds ("Main Title" / Various) [excellent YouTube soundtrack montage at that link] features a dramatic score by Leith Stevens. The movie is without a doubt my all-time favorite aliens-invading-earth film from the 1950s. This George Pal production, which was released in February 1953, was directed by Byron Haskin, and starred Gene Barry and Ann Robinson, who provided cameos as Tom Cruise's in-laws in the Steven Spielberg version of the H. G. Wells story. Dramatizations of this classic story started with the phenomenal 1938 "Mercury Theatre on the Air" radio broadcast of Orson Welles and have continued up till the present day. Nominated for three Academy Awards, the sci-fi classic won a well-deserved Oscar for special visual effects.
Song of the Day: The Beast from 20,000 Fathoms ("Monster Does Manhattan") [sample clip at that link], composed by David Buttolph for the 1953 film, is one of the defining and most influential film soundtracks for the whole sub-genre of "Monster Movies," which feature giant monsters stomping on contemporary cities (everything from King-sized giant apes and Atomic Age-reawakened dinosaurs to mutant ants and tarantulas). This particular film's plot has a fabulous London counterpart, released in 1959: "The Giant Behemoth," with special effects by Willis O'Brien, who was a mentor to Ray Harryhausen, the special effects wizard for Beast. After the Beast wreaks havoc in Manhattan, it decides to visit Brooklyn. Fuhgeddaboudit! It comes to a violent end at the Cyclone roller coaster, in Coney Island Amusement Park. Still, a little too close for comfort, if you ask this Brooklynite.
Song of the Day: The Wolf Man ("Main Title" / Various) [YouTube clip at that link] features an uncredited soundtrack, which included contributions from Frank Skinner, Hans J. Salter, and Charles Previn (great-uncle of Andre). Skinner has written some of my favorite scores in this genre, which will make their way to this list before too long. The 1941 film stars Lon Chaney, Jr. as Larry Talbot, who becomes the Wolf Man, having been bitten by the werewolf, Bela. The actor playing that role was actually named Bela: Bela Lugosi! Benicio del Toro took on the Talbot role in the 2010 remake. For an extra thrill, check out Moscow Symphony Orchestra versions of the 1941 Main Title [YouTube] and The Kill [mp3].
Song of the Day: The Bride of Frankenstein ("Main Title") is featured in the definitive score composed by Franz Waxman. This 1935 movie is the first and the best of the sequels to "Frankenstein." Directed by James Whale, it is one of the finest films in the Universal Monster Movie catalogue. Listen to the classic opening theme here [mp3 link].
Song of the Day: Frankenstein ("Main Title" / Various) [YouTube clip at that link], music by Giuseppe Becce and Bernhard Kaun, is from the soundtrack to the James Whale-directed 1931 classic Universal monster movie, starring Boris Karloff as the Monster. Today, I begin a mini-tribute within a tribute: a brief foray into my favorite "Monster Movie" soundtracks. I grew up on "Famous Monsters of Filmland" and was a regular Saturday night fan of "Chiller Theatre" and Zacherley on WPIX-TV in New York. So it's only natural to start off with one of the grand-daddies in the unnatural Universal catalogue!
Song of the Day: Hotel ("Main Title" / "Love Theme") features the music of John Keating and the lyrics of Richard Quine, who was the director of the 1967 film, "Hotel." The Keating soundtrack earned a Grammy Original Score nomination; on the album, the great jazz singer, Carmen McRae (YouTube clip at that link), who stars in the film, sings the love theme. The instrumental version can be heard in its entirety here; also, check out one of my all-time favorite renditions by Nancy Wilson (MySpace full-length clip at that link); it's from the 1968 album "Welcome to My Love," which was also one of my Mom's favorite albums; today, she would have been 93.
Song of the Day: The Children of Sanchez ("Overture"), words, music, film score written and performed by Chuck Mangione, comes from the Latin- and jazz-infused score that has a musical integrity quite apart from the fact that it's from a 1979 film, starring Anthony Quinn, that I've still yet to see! Mangione won a much-deserved Grammy Award for this album for Best Pop Instrumental Performance. Listen to the 14+ minute overture on YouTube.
Song of the Day: Mommie Dearest ("Main Theme") [YouTube clip at that link], composed by the perennially melodious Henry Mancini, is one of the great unheralded themes from his remarkable corpus of cinematic scores. It evokes gentility and pain, a feeling of promise, and of the ominous. And the 1981 film, entertaining as ever, features one of those eminently quotable lines in film history, uttered by Faye Dunaway, playing Joan Crawford, as she speaks before the Pepsi Cola Company Board of Trustees, which tries to dispense with her upon the death of her husband, Albert Steele, who had been Chairman of the Board: "Don't fuck with me fellahs. This ain't my first time at the rodeo." The Mancini soundtrack remains among this film's hidden gems.
Song of the Day: Ben Hur ("The Burning Desert") [YouTube clip at that link], composed by the one and only Miklos Rozsa, is from my all-time favorite film, the 1959 epic known for its colossal naval battles and chariot races, but also for its intimacy and intelligence. It's been a tradition around these parts to feature a selection from this grandest of symphonic cinematic scores every February 17th. This past year, life has sometimes felt like a struggle across a burning desert; just knowing that the sounds of redemption echo on the next horizon, that the cup of human kindness awaits in the hands of my truly blessed family and loyal friends, is enough to inspire the continuing trek across the many burning deserts to come. Happy 52nd Birthday to Me (born on the day that made me "Wednesday's Child, Full of Woe") and Three Cheers to Rozsa!
Song of the Day: The Robe ("Caligula's Arrival") [YouTube clip at that link] is from the stupendous Alfred Newman score to the first CinemaScope film in movie history (the last was "In Like Flint"). I remember when I first wrote 20th Century Fox many years ago: having been used to the flat-screen version shown on TV, I finally had a chance to see the "letterbox" version that was released on DVD and I was appalled at the differences. Whoever answered me from the studio insisted that it was only a difference between a "pan-and-scan" edit shown on TV and the actual CinemaScope released to theaters. No way, I protested! This wasn't a mere difference in the angle of the lens; the acting, the inflections of the words, etc., were completely different! I was vindicated when I found out later that this sprawling Biblical epic, one of my all-time favorites, was actually filmed twice: in Widescreen and in Standard "Flat" Screen versions. As far as I'm concerned, however, the best acted version remains the standard flat-screen one, which has yet to be given a glorious Blu-Ray transfer (only a side-by-side comparison can be found as a "bonus" on the Blu-Ray). In any event, this particular track, "Caligula's Arrival," captures the might of ancient Rome, if not the seeds of insanity, in the not-yet-Emperor Caligula, played with memorable flamboyance and furiosity by Jay Robinson. When I was a kid of 9 or 10 years old, so impressed was I by Robinson's portrayal (the film was played regularly on The 4:30 Movie), that I'd don an emperor's robe (usually a larger-than-life blanket), and recite, word-for-word, the character Caligula's speech at the trial of Tribune Marcellus Gallio (played by an Oscar-nominated Richard Burton). If that wasn't a sure sign of my, uh, inner, uh, Caligula, I don't know what could have been more telling! "Senators, Romans, there exists today in our Empire, and even in Rome itself, a secret party of seditionists, who call themselves Christians..." Don't get me started... I still know that speech by heart. Which is why I knew there were differences between widescreen and flat-screen versions; Robinson's inflections differ considerably in the standard version I grew to love, a version that, unfortunately, can't be found anywhere online. (I have my own copy recorded from cable many years ago, when AMC didn't have commercial interruptions!) The actual theme ("Caligula's Arrival"), highlighted today, is stated again at 01:55:43, when the trial sequence gets under way.
Song of the Day: The Sand Pebbles ("Jake and Shirley"), composed by Jerry Goldsmith, is featured on the evocative soundtrack to this 1966 film, one of my favorite films. Check out the lovely theme with clips of Steve McQueen and Candice Bergen and pianist Mark Northam's version as well. Back in 1969, all of 9 years old, I went to see "Che!" but "The Sand Pebbles" was the first film on a double-feature bill; so deeply affected were we by the Robert Wise-directed epic that we never stayed for the main feature. This theme was later gifted with lyrics by Leslie Bricusse ("And We Were Lovers"); it has been recorded by countless artists, all indexed with full track presentations at this phenomenal page (of particular note on that page: a tender vocal version by Jack Jones and a lovely instrumental treatment by the late, great Bud Shank). And check out The Sand Pebbles Motion Picture Website in all its glory.
Song of the Day: On Green Dolphin Street, lyrics by Ned Washington, music by Bronislaw Kaper, can be heard on the soundtrack to the 1947 film, "Green Dolphin Street." The song has become a jazz standard; check out these classic versions by Miles Davis (in the rare "'58 Miles," with the "Kind of Blue" sextet, featuring pianist Bill Evans and saxophonists Cannonball Adderley and John Coltrane), Bill Evans and a live Evans version with bassist Eddie Gomez and drummer Marty Morell, the Gary Burton Quartet, with guitarist Jim Hall, bassist Chuck Israels, and drummer Larry Bunker, Anita O'Day, Carmen McRae, Sarah Vaughan, Vince Guaraldi, Stan Getz, Herbie Hancock, and George Benson, live at the Newport Jazz Festival with the Count Basie Orchestra. Any song that celebrates "love" and the "heart" and "nights beyond forgetting," deserves to shine on this day: Happy Valentine's Day!
Song of the Day: In the Heat of the Night, lyrics by Alan and Marilyn Bergman, music by the multitalented composer, conductor, arranger, and producer Quincy Jones, is featured in the 1967 film, starring Rod Steiger and Sidney Poitier ("They call me Mister Tibbs!"). The Quincy Jones soundtrack received a Grammy nomination for "Best Original Score from a Motion Picture or Television Show." It's a great title song, sung by the great Ray Charles (YouTube clip at that link). Check out other notable versions as well: Bill Champlin (who sang it for the TV series) and the very jazzy Nancy Wilson (from her 1968 album, "Welcome to My Love"). The Bergmans, Jones, Champlin, Charles, Wilson, even Poitier! ... all Grammy winners in their lifetimes. Last night's memorable Grammy telecast (even Betty White won a Grammy!), with its moving memorials to Whitney Houston, Etta James, and others, reminds us to celebrate the healing power of music.
Song of the Day: I'm Every Woman, words and music by Nickolas Ashford and Valerie Simpson, was a huge hit in 1978 for Chaka Khan. A #1 R&B track, the record peaked at #21 on the pop chart. It was reprised by Whitney Houston, who performed it in the 1992 film, "The Bodyguard," in which she co-starred with Kevin Costner. The song went to #4 on the pop chart and was a #1 Dance Club Hit. The soundtrack album won a Grammy Award for Album of the Year, sporting Whitney's cover of "I Will Always Love You," which went on to win "Record of the Year," while Whitney herself captured the "Best Pop Vocal Performance, Female." Check out Chaka's original version here, a terrific remix from her 1989 album, "Life is a Dance," and, finally, Whitney Houston's remake, in which she gives a shout-out to Chaka as the song fades out. Tonight, tune in and see who the new winners are at the 54th Grammy Awards. And remember multiple-Grammy Award-winning singer, Whitney Houston, who passed away yesterday at the age of 48.
Song of the Day: Airport ("Love Theme") features the last soundtrack composed by Alfred Newman, who passed away less than a month before the film's release (and a month before his 70th St. Patrick's Day birthday in 1970). Nominated for 10 Oscars (only Helen Hayes walked away with a statuette, for "Best Supporting Actress"), the movie is credited as having initiated the 1970s "disaster film" genre, which reached its height, so-to-speak, in 1974, with "The Towering Inferno." The Oscar-nominated Newman score is highlighted by this lush love theme (YouTube link). (This particular take on the love theme is from "As You Remember Them," a Time-Life collection on vinyl that I've always treasured.)
Song of the Day: In Like Flint ("Where the Bad Guys Are Gals"), composed by Jerry Goldsmith, is featured in the whimsical 1967 sequel to "Our Man Flint" (1966). This was the last movie ever made in CinemaScope. This composition (which, with lyrics by Leslie Bricusse, became "Your Zowie Face"; listen to a sample here) has the kind of infectious melody heard throughout the film that once heard never seems to leave the psyche (and, yes, it has a similarity to another one of my favorites: "Call Me"). Check it out on YouTube here and here (along with a piece on "Spy Vogue") and in a Nelson Riddle arrangement too! And check out "The Musician's Magician" (YouTube link), a mini-"In Like Flint"-tribute to the great composer, who was born on this date in 1929.
Song of the Day: The Towering Inferno ("Something for Susan") [YouTube clip at that link], composed by John Williams, is an encore to our 80th birthday notice. It is a reminder that before he was John Williams, he was "Johnny Williams," a jazz pianist working in clubs around New York City. His early jazz sensibility is still evident in this intimate cue from the blockbuster 1974 Irwin Allen disaster flick. Check out YouTube to see the romantic scene between Paul Newman and Faye Dunaway, caressed by the sweet music of the Maestro.
Song of the Day: Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone ("Hedwig's Theme") [YouTube clip at that link], composed by the prolific John Williams, derives from the 2001 Oscar-nominated and Grammy-nominated score for the first film in the Harry Potter franchise, one of my all-time favorite fantasy series. The theme became the central musical leitmotif of the entire series, as powerful a contribution to thematic cinema scoring as any that Williams has ever made in his remarkable career. Happy 80th Birthday to the Maestro! Bravo!
Song of the Day: Jurassic Park ("Journey to the Island"), composed by the living legend that is John Williams, contains some of the most majestic themes in the corpus of this great composer, who, tomorrow, turns 80 years old. The composer earned Oscar nominations for two of his scores this year; he now surpasses the mighty Alfred Newman for the all-time most music nominations (47 and counting...) in the history of the Academy Awards. This dino-mite 1993 film is one of my all-time favorite "monster movies" centering on the unintended consequences of human action. And it was another in a string of terrific collaborations between Williams and director Steven Spielberg. Check out this YouTube moment.
Song of the Day: The Verdict ("The Bottom") [sample clip at that link], composed by Johnny Mandel, captures perfectly the mind-set of Frank Galvin, a seemingly washed-up attorney, who has one last chance to take on a big case, one last chance for personal redemption. The character is played by the Oscar-nominated Paul Newman, in what was, arguably, his greatest performance as an actor. The acclaimed director Sidney Lumet, who passed away in April 2011, said this of Newman's work in the 1982 film: "The slightest gesture, the slightest look, deep riches pour out." Amen. (Oh, and This Verdict Is In and It's Not 'The Bottom' but the Very Top!: The New York Giants Win the Super Bowl!! Bravo!!!)
Song of the Day: Heaven Can Wait features the Oscar-nominated score of composer Dave Grusin. It's one of my favorite cinema comedies (actually an adaptation of Harry Segall's 1938 play of the same name, and a remake of the 1941 film, "Here Comes Mr. Jordan"). But it's also a movie whose final sequences take place at the Super Bowl. And that's where the New York Giants are today, facing off with their arch football rivals, the New England Patriots, whom Big Blue beat at the 2007 Super Bowl. (Okay, okay, I'll give handsome Patriots Quarterback Tom Brady 1/2 of 1 point, just for admitting to a "man-crush" on New York Yankees shortstop Derek Jeter.) But I say: One Mo' Time! Go Eli Manning! Go Giants! And Go Grusin for capturing so many moods in his kaleidoscopic main theme from this 1978 film (YouTube clip at that link).
Song of the Day: Goldfinger ("Into Miami") [YouTube clip at that link] is the sexy, jazzy second track from the stupendous John Barry score to my absolutely all-time favorite 007 flick, starring the one and only Sean Connery as James Bond.
Song of the Day: It's Just Begun, words and music by Jimmy Castor, Johnny L. Pruitt, and Gerry Thomas, is one of the most famous tracks recorded by The Jimmy Castor Bunch. It is featured during a sizzling breakdance sequence (YouTube link) in the 1983 smash hit film "Flashdance." This entertaining movie sported a robust soundtrack of hit singles. And yet, this track never appeared on the soundtrack album! The track actually predates the movie; it first appeared in 1972 as the title track to the second album released by The Jimmy Castor Bunch. Castor passed away in January 2012. But his music lives on; this song, in particular, has been sampled countless times by hip hop artists. Check out the gloriously funky original on YouTube.
Song of the Day: Horror Hotel (in the U.K., known as "The City of the Dead") features the music of two composers: Douglas Gamley, who wrote the spooky themes, and Kenneth V. Jones, who composed the jazz music heard throughout. This 1960 film stars a superb Christopher Lee and a terrifically terrifying Patricia Jessel, who plays the witch, Elizabeth Selwyn, burned at the stake in Whitewood, Massachusetts on March 3, 1692 (coincident with the Salem Witch Hunts), but still living as Mrs. Newless (a play on Selwyn, spoken backwards), the owner of the Raven's Inn. It's one of my all-time favorite horror movies. Some have compared it to "Psycho," in terms of structure, but the films were released months apart (Hotel actually started shooting in 1959, a month before filming began on "Psycho"), and this Hotel is no derivative. The version released in the U.S. is slightly shorter than the U.K. original; the U.S. edit can be viewed here. The creepy Main Title by Gamley can be heard at 00:01-01:24; some of the best Jones jazz can be heard at 31:21-33:04 (my favorite at 32:49). The first human sacrifice in the movie takes place on Candlemas Eve: at the hour of "13" (the stroke of midnight, when February 1st becomes February 2nd), the bells in the churchyard ring 13 times. At which point, poor Nan Barlow (played by Venetia Stevenson) is ritually slaughtered. That makes today, uh, gulp, "Candlemas"; I say: Happy Groundhog Day (a big shout out to Staten Island Chuck and Punxsutawney Phil)!
Song of the Day: All About Eve ("Main Title") [sample at that link] opens composer Alfred Newman's Oscar-nominated score for the iconic 1950 film, which was nominated for a then-record 14 Academy Awards (tied in 1997 by "Titanic"). The film won a total of 6 Oscars, including Best Picture. It boasts an outstanding cast, led by the incomparable (and Oscar-nominated Best Actress) Bette Davis, who utters that famous line: "Fasten your seatbelts, it's going to be a bumpy night" (#9 on the list of the American Film Institute's all-time movie quotations). And a special nod to Oscar-nominated Supporting Actress Thelma Ritter, who, as Birdie, just can't believe the life story being spun by Eve (Oscar-nominated Supporting Actress Anne Baxter): "Everything but the bloodhounds snappin' at her rear end." (And check out the Live Lux Radio Theater version of the story!) Today begins my Annual Tribute to Cinema Songs, Scores and Other Compositions featured in film, a traditional Film Music February en route to the 84th Academy Awards.
Song of the Day: Golden Girls ("Thank You For Being a Friend"), composed by Andrew Gold, was the main title for this golden television comedy, which starred the late Bea Arthur, the late Rue McClanahan, the late Estelle Getty, and the very much alive Betty White, who, today, turns 90. As crazy and entertaining as ever, perfect in her comic timing, and still laughing it up on such shows as "Hot in Cleveland," the lady is poised for another 90 years! Take a look at the opening of this hilarious show, with its theme music, on YouTube. And Happy Birthday, Betty!
Song of the Day: One Life to Live has featured many lovely opening and closing themes throughout its 40+ years on television, with words and music being contributed by composers as varied as Dave Grusin and Lee Elwood Holdridge. I started watching the ABC soap opera back in 1992, when I was hooked on a storyline about an out gay teenage character named Billy Douglas (played by Ryan Phillippe). I watched the show right through its last episode on Friday the 13th of January 2012, when it ended a 43+ year run on daytime television. Listen to these incarnations of its catchy theme: Peobo Bryson, a 1980s memory, one from the early 1990s, a 1991 incarnation, a turn of the century version, and a vocal performed by Kassie DePaiva (who played Blair Cramer). Today may start the The Revolution, but I say: Viva Life (in fact, some characters/actors will move to "General Hospital")!
Song of the Day: Kiss From a Rose, words and music by Seal, went to #1 on the Billboard Hot 100, when it was released as the second single from the soundtrack to the 1995 film, "Batman Forever," starring Val Kilmer as the Caped Crusader. Nothing more appropriate on the day in which Pasadena, California hosts the amazing Tournament of Roses Parade. Take a look at this haunting, melodic song in two different music videos: the original and the one directed by Joel Schumacher, which is interspersed with clips from the movie.
Song of the Day: Stomp!, written by Louis Johnson, George Johnson, Valerie Johnson, and Rod Temperton, was a #1 Dance Hit in 1980 for the Brothers Johnson. The funky track was heard everywhere, on the radio, on television, in film, and even on the original Jane Fonda's Workout Record. Listen to the original 12" dance single. And Stomp your way into a Happy, Healthy, and Prosperous New Year!
Song of the Day: We Are Santa's Elves, words and music by Johnny Marks, is performed by the Elf Orchestra (actually Videocraft Chorus) on the classic stop-motion animation Rankin-Bass TV special, "Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer." Check out the song scene on YouTube. And a Merry Christmas to one and all!
Song of the Day: Zanzibar, words and music by the prolific Billy Joel, is a selection from the #1 1979 Grammy Award winning Album of the Year, "52nd Street," a paean to that Manhattan Street known for its legendary mid-twentieth century jazz scene (including "Swing Street," between 5th and 6th Avenues). The recording features changing rhythms and hues, and scintillating solo work by the late, great jazz horn player, Freddie Hubbard. The second section of Hubbard's solo is faded out on the original album, but an "unfaded" version of the song is a highlight of the boxed set, "My Lives." Check out the original album version on YouTube, a "demo" version, and the "unfaded" version too, where Hubbard's extended solo is utterly stupendous. Whew! This is the first "Z" song to appear on "My Favorite Songs," and any tune that mentions "jazz guitar" gets extra points from me any time!
Song of the Day: See The USA in Your Chevrolet, words and music by Leon Corday and Leon Carr, is one of the most memorable commercial jingles, highlighted today on the 100th anniversary of Chevrolet, a classic American car. Check out the equally classic Dinah Shore commercial!
Song of the Day: The Lady is a Tramp, music by Richard Rodgers, lyrics by Lorenz Hart, made its debut in the 1937 Broadway smash, "Babes in Arms," which featured the choreography of George Balanchine. This famous Rodgers and Hart song, performed in the original musical by Mitzi Green, spoofs New York high society. The song can be found in several films as well: as background music in the 1939 film version, performed by Lena Horne in the 1948 film "Words and Music" (YouTube clip) and by Frank Sinatra in the 1957 film, "Pal Joey," singing to Rita Hayworth (YouTube clip). Check out these other clips: Tommy Dorsey (with singer Edythe Wright), Sophie Tucker, Ol' Blue Eyes again, swingin' at Caesar's Palace in 1978 and with Ella Fitzgerald, and, most recently, Lady Gaga and Tony Bennett, featured on "Duets II," the highest debuting #1 Billboard album by the oldest living artist. Bennett may have turned 85 in August, but on this date, 125 years ago, the Statue of Liberty opened in New York Harbor. "This chick is a champ" with a lamp, which is why she's getting a Fireworks Celebration Tonight! Happy 125th birthday, Lady Liberty!
Song of the Day: West Side Story ("Dance at the Gym"), music by the incomparable Leonard Bernstein, can be heard in the score to the Oscar-wnning blockbuster film adaptation of the great Broadway musical. The film was released to theaters 50 years ago today. This particular composition was a highlight from a stupendous New York Philharmonic performance of the grand soundtrack in sync with the grand film, which took place at Avery Fisher Hall last month. What a poetically appropriate tribute, since the movie's opening sequence was filmed on the streets where Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts now stands, and Bernstein himself was the Philharmonic's long-time music director. The film soundtrack, boasting Bernstein's music and the lyrics of Stephen Sondheim, spent 54 weeks at #1. Enjoy this YouTube moment of this classic dance sequence, Latin rhythms and instrumentation conjoined to the steamy choreography of the great Jerome Robbins.
Song of the Day: Moves Like Jagger, words and music by Adam Levine, Benjamin Levin (Benny Blanco), Ammar Malik, and Shellback, was recorded by Maroon 5, and features a guest appearance by Christina Aguilera. I confess: One listen to this catchy #1 Billboard Hot 100 hit, which references Rolling Stones lead vocalist Mick Jagger, and I can't get it the hell out of my brain or my feet! Check out the Official Music Video and a live performance of the song on "The Voice."
Song of the Day: I Fall to Pieces, words and music by Garland Perry "Hank" Cochran and Harlan Perry Howard, was the first #1 Country Hit by the immortal Patsy Cline. It was released on 30 January 1961, three days after Dr. Franklin Edward Kameny submitted a petition for a Writ of Certiorari to the United States Supreme Court to review his case, Kameny v. Brucker, which protested the U.S. Army's unjust dismissal of him in 1957 from his position as an astronomer in the Army Map Service for being gay. He lost the case, but not the cause. Frank was an indefatigable warrior, a great trailblazer, on behalf of individual rights. I corresponded with him a few times over the years; he may have been known for his thunderous style, but I was always warmed by his gentility. So it's no wonder that many of us fall to pieces over his passing at the age of 86 on 11 October 2011. Check out Patsy Cline on YouTube.
Song of the Day: I Am A Paleontologist, words and music by Danny Weinkauf of the Brooklyn-based band, They Might Be Giants, is my nod to current TV commercial fare, which hasn't lost its knack for using catchy tunes. The original full-length track can be found on the band's album, Here Comes Science, but it has gotten its biggest airplay, I suspect, from this TV commercial for Payless Shoesource (clip at that link). The original music video, with its animated dinosaur bones, is a lot of fun. I don't know if Payless is a sponsor of tonight's Primetime Emmy Awards, but they get Thumbs (Halluces?) Up as our annual mini-TV-oriented-music tribute draws to a close.
Song of the Day: ILGWU (Look for the Union Label) (YouTube link), music by Malcolm Dodds, lyrics by Paula Green, gave us the best television commercial song from an American labor union, in my humble opinion, even if it was parodied occasionally. My enjoyment of the song was most likely colored by the fact that my mom worked in the garment industry her whole life; it appeals to the proletarian in all of us.
Song of the Day: Chock Full o'Nuts gave us a classic commercial jingle, one based on "That Heavenly Feeling," by Bernie Wayne and Bruce Silbert. The original lyrics to the jingle boasted: "Better coffee a Rockefeller's money can't buy," but when then-New York Governor Nelson Rockefeller took offense, the lyrics were changed to: "Better coffee a millionaire's money can't buy" (YouTube link). Today, however, inflation has taken its toll, and the lyrics have been adjusted accordingly: "Better coffee a billionaire's money can't buy" (two contemporary versions at the "jingle" link). The original version was sung by Page Black, wife of Chock Full o'Nuts founder, William Black.
Song of the Day: Nestle's Quik, aside from being one of my favorite childhood powdered ingredients for great (cold or hot) chocolate milk, inspired one of the classic television commercial jingles, featuring ventriloquist Jimmy Nelson, puppet Danny O'Day and Farfel, the utterly adorable hound dog. As we gear up for this year's 63rd Primetime Emmy Awards, now is a good time to salute some of my favorite TV commercial jingles. This one was big in the 1950s and 1960s: N-E-S-T-L-E-S, with Farfel and this updating too.
I figured that it was about time for a "station-break," so that I could note the appearance today of "Song of the Day #1000."
Seven years ago on this date, September 1, 2004, I began a list called "My Favorite Songs." I had no clue how long I'd keep up such a list, or how many possible songs I could name among my "favorites." As I explained:
Today, I thought I'd share with my readers a new feature for "Notablog" and a new page on my site. I have been promising readers to inaugurate additional "My Favorite Things" pages, pointing to such things as favorite books, favorite albums, and even favorite songs. Why my personal aesthetic views are so interesting is beyond me... but the Favorite Things page is consistently one of the most popular pages on my "Dialectics and Liberty" website. Perhaps it is due to the fact that I provide lots of entertaining links on such pages for your enjoyment. So, I'm starting a new page today: My Favorite Songs. Rather than come up with a full list on a single day, I'll make it a regular (daily?) feature here at "Notablog." (The songs will also be added to the "Favorite Songs" list . . . alphabetically, with date of addition in [brackets]) There isn't a waking hour of any day where I don't have a song on my mind. (I suspect there are quite a few songs playing in my mind during non-waking hours as well!) Music is such an integral part of my life, that I could not for a moment imagine life without it. And the songs I love come from a variety of genres, as readers will soon find out.
Indeed, the list has evolved to encompass both vocal and instrumental music compositions, gems both seasonal and universal, from the concert hall and the opera house, from theater, film, radio, and TV, and from all genres, moving effortlessly from the classical canon, jazz, R&B, disco, and rock to pop novelties and commercial advertising ditties. And it's one of those wide-open-ended things. Music is created every day by artists the world over; so it's especially satisfying to be introduced to new material from artists I never knew existed, and to find myself exploring an astonishingly new musical universe.
And that's how I got to a thousand "favorites." Day by day. Month by month. Year by year.
But let's be real: A thousand songs? I mean they can't all be "favorites."
If everything is a favorite, then nothing is a favorite.
A few thoughts about this truism: Everything has a context. In the end, it is my deeply personal context (how dialectical!), a life's worth of experience, both sensual and spiritual, that shapes the contours of my aesthetic response. And sometimes I even surprise myself by the positive responses I give to certain compositions by certain artists whose work I would never have given the time of day to, except for the one song I ended up really liking!
And then there's always that little experiential detail that I often leave out of my "Song of the Day" entry: A particular song may be so ingrained in the memory of concrete circumstances so as to be positively Hayekian in its implications. That is, the song (or the performance of it) is one that I respond to because it relates to my very personal "knowledge of the particular circumstances of time and place," as Friedrich Hayek said in his classic essay, "The Use of Knowledge in Society." The music may remind me of a person, place, or thing that makes me smile, or moves me to tears (in a good way). That's why it winds up becoming one of my favorite songs. When a reader sends me a note that voices "disagreement" with my highlighting of a certain song, my ultimate reply is: "Okay, your disagreement is noted. So start working on your own list!"
I should emphasize here that this list is not, and was never intended to be, a ranking (though the first song posted is still probably #1 in my heart for it's utterly romantic character). It would be an interesting exercise to create a few "Top Ten" song lists, by category or sub-category, drawn from that ever-growing "Favorite Songs" list.
But the truth is that among those "favorite songs" are songs that are not necessarily among my favorites. Let me explain.
A particular song may have been chosen precisely because of how it was performed by a particular artist. Indeed, there are some songs I haven't much cared for, until they were shaped by the remarkable talents of an extraordinary artist, who helped me to discover meaning where before there may have been indifference.
There are a few musicians who have so consistently captured me with their artistry that almost anything they touch turns to melodic, harmonic, or rhythmic gold. For example, the great jazz pianist Bill Evans could have played even "The Chicken Dance" (see below), and it might have found its way into "My Favorite Songs" (admittedly, a very big stretch, but it helps to make the point. Fortunately, there are no known recordings of Evans playing said song.)
Yes, there are songs on my list that could withstand the assault of even the most irritating instrument, even one made of outstretched rubber-bands (I call such timeless tunes, "rubber-band songs"; they'd sound good when played even by rubber-bands!). And there are also songs that I may never have particularly liked, but ended up loving because an artist performed an arrangement of it that provided a different spin or fresh interpretation of the lyric, which blew me away.
I should also note that while my list highlights songs that have touched my soul in some way, it also highlights those that might have just touched my, uh, booty. That is, they just make me want to move. Or they may have unbelievably infectious melodies that, once heard on a radio, stay with me for days on end.
A thousand songs chosen from the broad sweep of musical history is hardly a dent, of course; millions of musical compositions exist, and they are not listed among my favorites. Indeed, if you want to learn about compositions I absolutely and utterly despise, well, don't get me started! When I was in college, I DJ'ed many parties to make a few extra bucks, and still boast a vinyl record collection that would make some vinyl collectors spontaneously orgasm. But I was forced, practically at gun-point, to play tracks that I cringed over. To paraphrase Jack Nicholson from "Terms of Endearment": I'd rather stick needles in my eyes than be forced to play some of those songs ever again. I could easily come up with a list of those that might rival the current thousand titles! One that immediately comes to mind is "The Chicken Dance" (in the absence of said Evans version; not even a cute chicken acquits it). UGH. UGH. UGH. I cringed even looking at various YouTube videos to make the point. UGH. UGH. UGH.
Anyway.
The real point of "My Favorite Songs" is not to focus on the negative, but on the positive. It's fun because it's my list. And it's a list that will keep on growing as long as it remains fun to add to it.
Thanks to all those readers and artists who have sent me kind regards, suggestions, and feedback. And hearing, out of the clear blue, from some of the composers and artists whose work I have highlighted has been among the biggest thrills I've ever gotten from authoring "My Favorite Songs."
We all know what happened to Anne, after the thousand days. Well, I'm not about to lose my head over this! On to the next thousand ... and beyond!
Song of the Day: The Night Has a Thousand Eyes ("Main Theme"), music by Jerome ("Jerry") Brainin, lyrics by Buddy Bernier, is featured in the 1948 film noir, which starred Edward G. Robinson. The main theme (not the same-titled Bobby Vee hit) evolved into a jazz standard, played by such musicians as John Coltrane, Paul Desmond and Jim Hall, Stan Getz (with a little intro assist from Steve Allen), Freddie Hubbard, Joe Pass, Sonny Rollins, Horace Silver, Sonny Stitt and Bennie Green, and McCoy Tyner (all YouTube links). And check out this sample of the vocal rendition by the great Carmen McRae. The night may have a thousand eyes, but on this date, the 7th anniversary of the inauguration of our "Song of the Day," we have reached a thousand titles on "My Favorite Songs." Here's to a thousand more (at least)!
Song of the Day: All of Me, words and music by Gerald Marks and Seymour Simons, was featured in many renditions on the radio show of Danny Stiles, "The King of Nostalgia," "The Vicar of Vintage Vinyl," who passed away back on March 11, 2011. Today, we remember the stylish Stiles, who gave all of himself to the cause of preserving great American standards. Check out these performances: Ruth Etting, Billie Holiday, Dinah Washington live "Jazz on a Summer's Day," Lester Young and Teddy Wilson, Ella Fitzgerald, the very Sassy Sarah Vaughan, Willie Nelson, John Pizzarelli, Tal Farlow and Red Norvo, Frank Sinatra swingin' at Caesar's Palace, and the one and only Pops with Chops: Louis Armstrong (all YouTube clips).
Song of the Day: Coney Island Baby, composed by Vinny Catalano and Peter Alonzo, is a 1961-62 doo-wop gem, recorded by the Excellents. It inspired everyone from Lou Reed to Tom Waits to re-imagine their own Coney Island babies. But today it is posted in tribute to all the residents of Coney Island, who live just a few Brooklyn blocks away from me, and who survived evacuation, the shutdown of the NYC subway system, and Irene herself, which was downgraded from a Hurricane to a Tropical Storm. Irene touched New York City soil when it made landfall in Coney Island around 9am this morning. So here's a doo-wop shout out: enjoy the original single by the Excellents on YouTube.
Song of the Day: Till the World Ends, written by Dr. Luke, Alexander Kronlund, Max Martin and Kesha, was recorded by Britney Spears for her album "Femme Fatale." This sizzling, apocalyptic dance track shouldn't be taken too literally, especially for those of us in the Northeast who experienced an earthquake this week, and who are now facing Hurricane Irene. No fear. We'll just dance till the world ends . . . Take a look at the official video on YouTube.
Song of the Day: Found a Cure, a #1 dance track from 1979, was written by Nick Ashford and Valerie Simpson. It appears on the Ashford & Simpson album, "Stay Free." Ashford passed away on 22 August 2011. But he left behind a musical legacy that still provides the cure; listen to the energetic, soulful 12" remix on YouTube.
Song of the Day: Lady (Hear Me Tonight), the debut single by French duo, Modjo, was written and performed by Romain Tranchart and vocalist Yann Destagnol. The recording features a guitar sample of "Soup for One," performed by Chic, for which Nile Rodgers and Bernard Edwards are also credited as songwriters. Check out YouTube to listen to this hot dance track.
Song of the Day: Shake, Rattle and Roll was composed by Jesse Stone (a.k.a. Charles E. Calhoun) and was recorded first by Big Joe Turner. But it was in 1954 that Bill Haley and His Comets were the first to score a Top Ten Billboard hit with this all-time classic white-hot and bluesy track. Check out YouTube for renditions by Big Joe Turner, Bill Haley, Elvis Presley, a live Fats Domino, and Jerry Lee Lewis. Today, NYC was shakin', rattlin', and rollin' in the wake of a 5.8 magnitude earthquake whose epicenter was near Richmond, Virginia. I felt it for sure ... but figured I was having some sort of dizzy spell.
Song of the Day: It's a Man's Man's Man's World features the words and music of Betty Jean Newsome and the one and only James Brown, whose recording of the song was a huge hit on both the R&B and pop charts. Listen to two versions by Brown: the original, a jazz-influenced reworking from "Soul on Top" with the swingin' Louis Bellson Orchestra (both YouTube links), and two versions that invert the imagery: one finely orchestrated, grinding rendition by Cher (YouTube link), and a totally deconstructed powerhouse live performance at the 2007 Grammy Awards by Christina Aguilera (YouTube link). Aguilera is a Staten Island native, which is all the more appropriate today, as the NYC borough marks the 350th anniversary of its founding in 1661. Happy Birthday, Staten Island!
Song of the Day: Separate Ways (Worlds Apart), written by Jonathan Cain and Steve Perry, is featured on the Journey album Frontiers. Listen to the full-length version of one of my favorite Journey songs on YouTube.
Song of the Day: There Must Be a Way, music by David Saxon, lyrics by Robert Cook and Sammy Gallop, was a big 1967 hit for Jimmy Roselli, who passed away on June 30, 2011. Check out the original Roselli 45 on YouTube, and also versions by Joni James, Louis Armstrong, and the Great One, Jackie Gleason.
I'm a great fan of "So You Think You Can Dance," and am absolutely elated to see that Melanie Moore has been named "America's Favorite Dancer."
She was my favorite too! From the start of the season! Brava! (And three cheers to the show's creator, executive producer, and regular judge, Nigel Lythgoe, for telling some of these folks where to go!)
Song of the Day: Somebody to Love, composed by Heather Bright, The Stereotypes, and Justin Bieber, was recorded by Bieber for his album, My World 2.0. My favorite version of the pop dance hit is the "remix," performed by Bieber, with a great assist from his mentor, Usher. The "official video" is on YouTube (and JB gets 2.0 points for wearing a Yankees cap in the video).
Song of the Day: WNEW (Theme Song), composed by Larry Green, is one of the most famous station-identification themes in radio history. I note it today in tribute to the late William B. Williams, on whose show one heard this theme music frequently. In 1958, Williams took over hosting duties for the "Make Believe Ballroom," a radio show created in 1935 by Martin Block for WNEW-AM, 1130 in New York. For his incredible work in radio, Williams was recently inducted into the New York State Broadcasters Association Hall of Fame. He was the man who nicknamed Francis Albert Sinatra, "The Chairman of The Board" (links to a two-part Williams interview of Sinatra). Growing up, I regularly heard Williams' wonderful, soothing voice introducing the Great American songbook to his listeners, day after day. And this theme song, which was even recorded in 1964 by Stan Getz and Bill Evans [Amazon.com sample]) was omnipresent. Go to YouTube to listen to the original radio version and its countless variations, including this one and that one, and those inspired by holidays and seasons (Autumn, Winter, Spring, and Summer), and those done in the styles of Ray Anthony, Charlie Barnet, Count Basie, Les Baxter, Dave Brubeck and Paul Desmond, Ray Conniff, Martin Denny, Les and Larry Elgart, Erroll Garner, Benny Goodman, Neil Hefti, Al Hirt, Jazz Piano, Antonio Carlos Jobim, Spike Jones, Stan Kenton, Guy Lombardo, Henry Mancini, Billy May, Glenn Miller, Gerry Mulligan, Les Paul and Mary Ford, Nat Pierce, Perez Prado, Andre Previn, Nelson Riddle, Pete Rugolo, Lalo Schifrin, George Shearing, Felix Slatkin, Bob Thompson, and Kai Winding, and then check out our host with Nat King Cole and this specially-worded tribute to William B. Williams.
Song of the Day: The Weight of Love, music and lyrics by Peter Murphy and Paul Statham, is a highlight from the 2004 solo album, "Unshattered." Peter's velvet vocals cascade over an irresistible "sleaze-beat" bass line, infused with funk and soul. "Music fills the cracks," indeed, letting "love's spirit in." He's got a great new album, but this remains a golden oldie. Listen to the full-length version on YouTube. And happy anniversary! ;)
Song of the Day: The Yankee Doodle Boy (also known as Yankee Doodle Dandy), composed by George M. Cohan, made its first splash in the 1904 Broadway musical, Little Johnny Jones. For me, nobody performs it like the magnificent James Cagney (who won a Best Actor Oscar for playing Cohan) from the great 1942 Hollywood musical, "Yankee Doodle Dandy." Take a look at YouTube, and Have a Great Independence Day!
Song of the Day: The Day the Earth Stood Still ("Prelude") [YouTube clip of opening credits at that link] was composed by the immortal New York-born Bernard Herrmann, the centenary of whose birth we celebrate today. The score for this classic science fiction film was remarkable for its revolutionary use of the theremin. Viva Herrmann!
Song of the Day: I Can't Get Next to You, words and music by Norman Whitfield and Barrett Strong, recorded by The Temptations, was one of the choice #1 Motown hits featured in the 1969 Stonewall Inn jukebox, when it was raided by police on the 28th of June. Now, with gay marriage having been approved in New York State, the events of that night seem as if they happened in an almost alien culture. But I still salute the bravery of those who fought back in that Greenwich Village bar 32 years ago. Listen to this classic song on YouTube.
Song of the Day: Perry Mason ("Park Avenue Beat") [YouTube clip at that link] was composed by Fred Steiner, who passed away on 23 June 2011. This was the iconic theme song for the famous television series, featuring Raymond Burr in the title role.
Song of the Day: Pocketful of Miracles ("Title Song"), music by Jimmy Van Heusen, lyrics by Sammy Cahn, received a "Best Original Song" Academy Award nomination in 1961. The song was featured in the utterly hilarious 1961 film, starring the great Bette Davis, Glenn Ford, and the magnificent Peter Falk (who received a Best Supporting Actor Oscar nomination for his hyper-comedic turn as Joy Boy). Whatever role he played (including the classic Lieutenant Columbo), Falk entertained as if it were "Christmas Every Day." Sadly, he passed away on 23 June 2011. Take a look at the opening credits choral version of this song (YouTube video at that link) and one by Francis Albert Sinatra (another YouTube link), who, it is said, was originally slated to play Dave the Dude, prior to the casting of Glenn Ford.
Song of the Day: Get On the Floor features the words and music of Louis Johnson (of The Brothers Johnson) and Michael Jackson, who passed away two years ago on this date. A sweet disco track from the trailblazing album, "Off the Wall," it is given a YouTube tribute here.
Song of the Day: I'm Glad There Is You, words and music by Jimmy Dorsey and Paul Madeira (aka Paul Mertz). is a perfect song to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the opening of the Empire State Building, my favorite of all NYC skyscrapers. Extraordinary you are, the King Kong of all buildings: I'm Glad There is You, still You, always ... You. Happy Birthday! And listen to Old Blue Eyes on YouTube.
Song of the Day: Love Sensation, written by Dan Hartman, was sung by roof-raising Disco Diva Loleatta Holloway, who passed away at the age of 64 on 21 March 2011. This 1980 #1 Billboard Dance Single is one of the most sampled tracks in dance music history. Its trademark sounds can be heard on recordings such as "Ride on Time" by Black Box and "Good Vibrations" by Marky Mark (Wahlberg) and the Funky Bunch (YouTube clips at those links). Check out the classic Shep Pettibone Mix on YouTube.
Song of the Day: Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf? ("Main Title") [YouTube clip at that link], composed by the great Alex North, opens the 1966 film featuring tour de force performances from each of its actors: Richard Burton, George Segal, Sandy Dennis (Best Supporting Actress Oscar winner), and Elizabeth Taylor, who won a much-deserved Best Actress Oscar, and who passed away today at the age of 79.
Song of the Day: Baker Street features the words, lyrics, and performance of Gerry Rafferty, who passed away on 4 January 2011. Spotlighting the saxophone of Raphael Ravenscroft, it's a late 70s pop gem. Check out the full Rafferty version on YouTube and, among the many covers of this song, one by the Foo Fighters.
Song of the Day: The Social Network ("In Motion") [YouTube link] is a dark ambient track composed by Trent Reznor (of Nine Inch Nails fame) and Atticus Ross. It can be heard on the Golden Globe-winning soundtrack for this provocative 2010 film. The soundtrack has also been nominated for an Oscar for Best Original Score. Check out the 83rd Annual Academy Awards tonight to see all the winners. And so concludes this year's tribute to Movie Music!
Song of the Day: Spartacus ("Hopeful Preparations"/"Vesuvius Camp") [audio clip at that link] is featured in the Alex North soundtrack masterpiece from the inspiring and thrilling 1960 film, starring Kirk Douglas in the title role. This particular track is part of a new and absolutely stupendous deluxe CD soundtrack released by Varese Sarabande, in centenary celebration of North (who was born on 4 December 1910). The deluxe set also includes a poignant CD featuring timeless interpretations of the classic love theme, with artists as diverse as Bill Evans and Carlos Santana.
Song of the Day: Ride 'Em Cowboy ("I'll Remember April"), music by Gene de Paul, lyrics by Patricia Johnston and Don Raye, was first heard in the hilarious 1942 Abbott and Costello film, "Ride 'Em Cowboy," where it was performed by Dick Foran (YouTube film clip at that link). Other classic renditions have been performed by the very Sassy Swinging Scatting Sarah Vaughan (YouTube link) and the late, great pianist George Shearing (YouTube link), who just passed away on Valentine's Day. (And while I could have posted this in, uh, April, this great song makes my list in Movie Music February, with temperatures reaching the very April-ish 60s in snow-weary New York City!)
Song of the Day: Ben-Hur ("Roman March" or "Marcia Romana") [YouTube clip at that link], composed by Miklos Rozsa, is one of the master's grandest marches from the grandest of all epics. Continuing Movie Music Month, this one's for me (on my 51st birthday)!
Song of the Day: Midnight Cowboy ("Main Theme"), written by the late great John Barry, won a 1970 Grammy for Best Instrumental Composition. The 1969 film remains the only "X-rated" flick to ever win an Oscar for Best Picture. Check out YouTube for the soundtrack version, featuring harmonica virtuoso Toots Thielemans. See also a live version, featuring Toots with the Boston Pops Orchestra, conducted by John Williams.
Song of the Day: The Graduate ("Mrs. Robinson"), words and music by Paul Simon, first appeared in an early version in this 1967 film, which starred Anne Bancroft as the older Mrs. in question, and Dustin Hoffman as the younger Benjamin Braddock, whom she seduces. The complete version of the song debuted on the Simon & Garfunkel album, Bookends. The record won a Grammy Award in 1969 for "Record of the Year." And any record that mentions Yankee great Joe DiMaggio gets extra points. In celebration of movie music this month, and in recognition of the 53rd Annual Grammy Awards, which air tonight, check out YouTube.
Song of the Day: The Spy Who Loved Me ("Nobody Does It Better," Main Title), music by Marvin Hamlisch, lyrics by Carole Bayer Sager, was recorded by Carly Simon and was the theme song for the 1977 Roger Moore Bond flick. Check out the YouTube clip featuring the opening credit sequence.
Song of the Day: Live and Let Die ("Main Title"), words and music by Linda McCartney and Paul McCartney, who recorded it for the group Wings, is the title theme song for the first Roger Moore 007 flick (former Beatles producer George Martin composed most of the soundtrack). The film was not one of my favorite Bond entries, and I'm a diehard Sean Connery fan, but this rocking, rousing track was a big hit for Paul McCartney and Wings (as heard in the opening film credits) and was also covered in 1991 by Guns 'n Roses (YouTube links).
Song of the Day: Diamonds Are Forever ("Main Title"), lyrics by Don Black, music by John Barry, is featured in the 007 film of the same name, starring the greatest Bond, James Bond: Sean Connery. This was the second Bond theme performed with gusto by singer Shirley Bassey (YouTube link).
Song of the Day: You Only Live Twice ("Main Title"), words by Leslie Bricusse, music by John Barry, is the title song, which manages to be both catchy and lush, featured in the fifth 007 franchise film. On YouTube, check out the original Nancy Sinatra version, and a few surprising covers by Bjork and Coldplay.
Song of the Day: From Russia with Love, composed by Lionel Bart, is the title track to the second Sean Connery 007 flick. This splendid theme features the memorable vocals of Matt Monro (YouTube link).
Song of the Day: Dr. No ("James Bond Theme") [YouTube link], composed by Monty Norman (though authorship has always been a source of controversy), is the signature James Bond theme, first featured in this premier 007 franchise film and heard in virtually all of the "official" Bond films thereafter. It boasts a classic, jazzy John Barry arrangement (another YouTube link).
Song of the Day #965: Thunderball ("Main Title"), words by Don Black, music by five-time Oscar winner John Barry, is the title track to one of the classic James Bond films. In honor of the late, great John Barry, check out YouTube, featuring the powerful vocals of Tom Jones. No better time to kick off our Our Annual Movie Music Tribute Series than to feature this Barry gem.
Song of the Day: Square Biz was written by Allen McGrier and R&B singer Teena Marie, the "ivory queen of soul," who passed away on 26 December 2010. Check out this funky gem on YouTube.
Song of the Day: That Old Black Magic, music by Harold Arlen, lyrics by Johnny Mercer has been performed so many times by so many artists, including Glenn Miller (with vocalist Skip Nelson), Frank Sinatra (who swings it too), Judy Garland, Ella Fitzgerald, Sarah Vaughan, Carmen McRae, Marilyn Monroe (in the film "Bus Stop"), Louis Prima and Keely Smith, and, in a Delirious Disco Spin, Sammy Davis, Jr. (YouTube moments at each of those links). It was also a 1942 hit for the recently deceased Margaret Whiting and the Freddie Slack Orchestra (YouTube link).
Song of the Day: I Can't Wait, written and recorded by Nu Shooz, reached #1 on the Billboard dance chart in 1986. The wait is over, though, and 2011 is here. January 1 was dedicated by the ancient Romans to Janus, a god of gates, doors, beginnings, and endings, one who looks back in time to the old and forward to the new. How very dialectical! A very happy, healthy, and prosperous New Year to All! Get up and dance!
Song of the Day: This Christmas features the words and music of Nadine McKinnor and Donny Hathaway. Check out Donny Hathaway's very smooth rendition on YouTube. And a very Merry Christmas to all!
Song of the Day: Just a Gigolo/I Ain't Got Nobody is a classic medley of two songs, the first adapted by Irving Caesar from a Casucci-Brammer Austrian song, and the latter credited to Spencer Williams and Roger Graham. It was performed with wild wit by the great Sicilian American jazz man, Louis Prima, the centennial of whose birth was celebrated on 7 December 2010. Check out this YouTube moment featuring the original recording, with Keely Smith, poppin' saxman Sam Butera, and Prima's Sicilian-tinged scatting. Also check out David Lee Roth's faithful paean to Prima.
Song of the Day: Only Girl (In the World), written by Crystal Johnson, Stargate, and Sandy Vee, is the lead single from Rihanna's new album, "Loud." Check out the official video for this Billboard #1 Hot 100 dance scorcher.
Song of the Day: DJ Got Us Fallin' In Love Again, written by Max Martin, Shellback, Savan Kotecha, and Pitbull (who guest raps), is a huge, infectious dance hit for 2010 American Music Award recipient, Usher. Check out the official video, the smokin' Dark Intensity Remix, and Usher's AMA performance.
Song of the Day: If I Had You (not that one), written by Max Martin, Shellback, and Savan Kotecha, is performed with disco gusto by Adam Lambert, runner-up in the 2009 "American Idol" competition. Take a look at the "official video" on YouTube.
Song of the Day: If I Had You, written by "Irving King" (actually the British songwriting team, James Campbell and Reginald Connelly) and Ted Shapiro, is a bona fide jazz standard, which has been recorded by many artists. Take a look and a listen to versions by Benny Goodman, Oscar Peterson and Stephane Grappelli, and Sarah Vaughan.
Song of the Day: Time Remembered [YouTube clip at that link] is a magnificent composition written and performed by the timeless jazz pianist Bill Evans. It is posted in remembrance, today, of two members of the New York Yankees family who passed away last week: "The Voice of God" Bob Sheppard and the Boss, George Steinbrenner.
Song of the Day: Baby It's Cold Outside features the words and music of the great Frank Loesser, who was born 100 years ago today. This Academy Award winner was heard in the film, "Neptune's Daughter," but it always makes me think of the Christmas season. It has been recorded by many artists. Take a look on YouTube at versions by Dinah Shore and Buddy Clark, Dean Martin, and Natalie Cole and James Taylor.
Song of the Day: The Lady in My Life, words and music by Rod Temperton, is one of my all-time favorite ballads by Michael Jackson, who passed away one year ago today. This sensuously rhythmic song is featured on the biggest selling album of them all, "Thriller." Listen to the track on YouTube, in remembrance of a talented soul, gone too soon. Also, take a look at a really nice KurtHugoSchneider medley of Michael Jackson tunes.
Song of the Day: More Than You Know, music by Vincent Youmans, lyrics by Billy Rose and Edward Eliscu, debuted in the Broadway musical "Great Day" and it has been recorded by countless artists. I enjoyed a version performed by Barbra Streisand, who sang it in the film "Funny Lady." Listen to audio clips of Streisand and jazz greats Anita O'Day and Dave Brubeck and take a look at a YouTube clip featuring Judy Garland. And tonight, celebrate the legacy that is Broadway and watch the Tony Awards!
Song of the Day: It's Easy to Say, composed by the magnificent Henry Mancini, with lyrics by Robert Wells, is featured in the 1979 film "10," where it is performed hauntingly and lovingly on piano by Dudley Moore and by Julie Andrews and Moore as well (full-length movie versions at those links). One of my all-time favorite Mancini compositions, take a look at a live version with Mancini and Moore and another played by the composer himself. The Academy Award-nominated song was performed on the 1980 telecast by Moore and singer Helen Reddy. And so ends my annual mini-movie music tribute.
Song of the Day: Wives and Lovers, a classic Burt Bacharach-Hal David hit, is one of the great "exploitation" songs in film history. Paramount Pictures asked the gents to write a promotional song that shared the title of the 1963 movie, even though the song is never actually heard in the film. Check out the great Grammy-winning waltz-time version by swinging, singing immortal Jack Jones (YouTube clip at that link) and the Jack Jones disco version with the sexy jazz sax solo, as well as wonderful versions by Nancy Wilson, Julie London, Connie Francis, Frank Sinatra and Count Basie, jazz saxophone great Stan Getz, and one of my all-time favorite jazz guitar versions by the legendary Joe Pass playing a 12-stringer.
Song of the Day: Can't Fight the Moonlight, written by Diane Warren, is featured in the film "Coyote Ugly." Today begins my mini-tribute to film music, in anticipation of the 82nd Academy Awards to be broadcast this Sunday, March 7, 2010. Performed by LeAnn Rimes, it's a peppy track that's been remixed fabulously for the dance floor as well; check out various versions, including this YouTube moment, this remix and this one too.
Song of the Day: Ben-Hur ("Salute for Gratus") [audio clip at that link] is one of the grandest themes composed by Miklos Rozsa for my favorite film, "Ben-Hur." And so, it is fitting to highlight this one, from my favorite soundtrack of all time, on the occasion of my 50th birthday... today!
Song of the Day: Improvisation #2 features the immortal gypsy jazz guitarist Django Reinhardt, the centennial of whose birth (on 23 January 1910) we celebrate. Though well known for his work with the great jazz violinist Stephane Grappelli in the magnificent swing ensemble, Quintette du Hot Club de France, this particular track shows off the master stylist in a solo setting. Check out a YouTube excerpt, even if the video cuts the last part of the original recording. Long live Django! And a belated Happy New Year to All!
Song of the Day: Merry Christmas, Baby, written by Lou Baxter and Johnny Moore, is a bluesy celebration of today's holiday. Take a listen (or a look) to versions by Kenny Burrell, B.B. King, and Bruce Springsteen. And a Merry Christmas to one and all!
Song of the Day: Inventions (full version at that link) is a composition by the band Maserati. A stand-out from the band's album, Inventions for the New Season, the track has also been creatively remixed. Take a look at two YouTube moments: this clip of a live version from the 40 Watt Club in Athens, Georgia, and this clip from San Antonio, Texas, recorded on 18 October 2009. The latter clip is all the more poignant to watch because it was recorded by the ensemble just weeks before the tragic untimely passing on 8 November 2009 of Brooklyn-based drummer extraordinaire Jerry Fuchs. Fuchs had worked prolifically with such bands as LCD Soundsystem, !!! (pronounced "chk, chk, chk"), and The Juan Maclean. I never met him, but I had heard wonderful things about him from those who knew him. His passionate devotion to his craft is evident in the remarkable musical legacy he has left behind.
Song of the Day: And the Angels Sing features the music of trumpeter Ziggy Elman and the lyrics of Johnny Mercer, who was born 100 years ago today. The most famous version of this song was recorded by the Benny Goodman Big Band, featuring the sweet vocals of Martha Tilton and a rousing trumpet solo by Elman. In celebration of the centennial of the birth of the Great Mercer, take a look at this YouTube moment of this terrific song.
Song of the Day: One Step Beyond ("Fear"/"Weird"), composed by Harry Lubin, was the haunting theme music to an equally haunting TV series. Hosted by the elegant John Newland, the series offered dramatizations of real-life tales of the unexplained. These themes were among the spookiest in TV history and this show remains one of my favorite all-time TV series (one of the least typical episodes is the rarely seen docu-style, "The Sacred Mushroom," which is on YouTube; check out parts 1, 2, and 3, the last of which includes the theme music at the end). One day beyond last night's Emmy Awards, which kicked off the new television season officially, listen to audio clips from Lubin's soundtrack and from the ever-popular Ventures.
Song of the Day: Blame it on the Boogie, words and music by Mick Jackson, David Jackson, and Elmar Krohn, was recorded in 1978 by both Mick Jackson and The Jacksons (no relation between them). The Jacksons' version, my favorite, sported an infectious and happy disco beat, and a sweet R&B-laced vocal by its extraordinarily talented lead singer, who, today, would have been 51 years old. In remembrance of Michael Jackson's birthday, Spike Lee is sponsoring a day-long festival in Brooklyn's Prospect Park today. From the Jacksons' album, "Destiny," take a YouTube trip down memory lane. (And check out Mick Jackson's original version on YouTube as well!)
Song of the Day: How High the Moon, music by Morgan Lewis, lyrics by Nancy Hamilton, is one of those great jazz standards that has been recorded by so many musicians through the years. One of my favorite versions is by the master jazz violinists Stephane Grappelli and Stuff Smith (audio clip at that link). Benny Goodman and Helen
Forest recorded a terrific rendition (YouTube clip at that link) and Ella Fitzgerald recorded it several times as well (check out an audio clip from "Ella in Berlin"). But the song went to #1 on the Billboard chart in a classic version by Mary Ford and Les Paul. Les passed away today; he was a wonderfully talented musician and a titanic innovator in the art and science of modern recording. Check out Les and Mary on YouTube.
Song of the Day: P.Y.T. (Pretty Young Thing), words and music by James Ingram and Quincy Jones, was the sixth single release from Michael Jackson's Grammy award winning and all-time best selling album, Thriller (which generated seven Top Ten hits in total). I've highlighted so many of Jackson's songs through the years on my "Song of the Day"; today, I feature this one in the wake of his death. It's just fun ... a reminder of what fun Jackson's music was. And, well, "now is the perfect time..."
This has been a tough week for those of us boomers who grew up and came into our own in the 60s, 70s, and 80s. First, it was reported that Ed McMahon passed away. His presence on late night TV with Johnny Carson and on annual MDA Telethons was always a source of joy.
Then, word came early today that Farrah Fawcett had lost her battle with cancer. From "Charlie's Angels" to "The Burning Bed," Fawcett showed versatility, and acting chops. And even I bought that famous poster and Playboy issue.
This morning, I repeated to a friend of mine one of those old adages: "They say that famous people die in threes. Ed, Farrah... jeez... guess we should expect another one."
Late this afternoon, I found out that Michael Jackson passed away.
I can't even begin to communicate how stunned and saddened I was to hear this. We were roughly the same age, and I grew up on his music, from his early Motown years with the Jackson Five to his remarkable solo career; I danced to his beats, marvelled at his raw talent, and was fortunate enough to see him three times in concert: once on the Victory Tour, in the wake of his unbelievably successful album, Thriller (one of my favorite albums of all time); a second time on the Bad World Tour; and finally, on the Dangerous World Tour. Soft spoken in interviews, the man became a moonwalking lion on stage. I've never seen anyone like him in live performance ... before or since.
Unfortunately, in later years, so much of this magnificent talent was overshadowed by tabloid stories, sordid scandals, trials, and tribulations. None of it erased, in my mind, the talent of this entertainer, or the happiness his music, groundbreaking videos, and electrifying performances brought me.
Ed, Farrah, and Michael. All gone too soon.
Song of the Day: There's No Business Like Show Business, words and music by Irving Berlin, is from the Broadway musical, "Annie Get Your Gun." In honor of the 63rd Annual Tony Awards, which is being broadcast tonight on CBS, I feature this classic song in a version by Ethel Merman (YouTube clip at that link), from the 1954 film of the same name.
Song of the Day: Don't Be That Way was written by Edgar Sampson, Mitchell Parish, and Benny Goodman, for whose band this was a huge hit. It was the tune that opened Goodman's famed 1938 Carnegie Hall concert (audio clip at that link). Today, in celebration of the 100th anniversary of the birth of the King of Swing, I feature this wonderful tune from his remarkable discography. Take a look at a 1980 Goodman YouTube clip and for a vocal version, check out Ella Fitzgerald on YouTube.
I haven't written on the 2009 "American Idol" season, but I've been watching, and look forward to the final installments tonight and tomorrow. Here's an interesting piece by Stephen Holden in today's Times.
One of the all-time great film score composers, Maurice Jarre, passed away on Saturday, March 28, 2009. His memorable scoring (most notably, for me, his magnificent work on "Lawrence of Arabia") lives on.
Song of the Day: That's Entertainment, music by Arthur Schwartz, lyrics by Howard Dietz, was first featured in the 1953 movie musical, "The Band Wagon," and was also prominently heard in the 1974 MGM compilation film of the same name. As you get ready to watch the Oscars tonight, take a look at this wonderful Judy Garland YouTube tribute, spotlighting this iconic Hollywood song. So concludes our 2009 movie music tribute.
Song of the Day: The Untouchables ("Death Theme") [audio clip at that link], composed by Ennio Morricone, is a portrait of melancholy. Listen to an alternative audio clip from a wonderful tribute album by Yo Yo Ma.
Song of the Day: The Fugitive ("Main Title") [audio clip at that link], composed by James Newton Howard, is from the 1993 motion picture, starring Harrison Ford. One of my all-time favorite TV themes is the one by Peter Rugolo for the magnificent original David Janssen series. I love listening to this soundtrack as well, just as much as I enjoy watching this film ... over and over again.
Song of the Day: Independence Day ("Firestorm") [audio clip at that link], composed by David Arnold, is a dramatic selection from one of my favorite sci-fi films.
Song of the Day: Midnight Express ("The Chase") [audio clip at that link], composed by Giorgio Moroder, is a pulsating dance classic from the 1978 Oscar-winning Best Original Score to a harrowing tale of injustice.
Song of the Day: Ben-Hur ("Fertility Dance") [audio clip at that link], composed by Miklos Rozsa, offers a rousing start to our Annual Movie Music Tribute, in anticipation of the 81st Academy Awards. The tribute also begins on the occasion of my 49th birthday... so... uh... happy birthday to me!
Song of the Day: (There's No Place Like) Home for the Holidays, music by Robert Allen, lyrics by Al Stillman, was popularized by Perry Como (YouTube moment at that link). And check out another YouTube moment with the Carpenters. So ends our mini-holiday tribute. A Happy and a Healthy New Year to all!
Song of the Day: Looks Like December, composed and performed by the great Antonio Carlos Jobim, is a poignant song of memory to mark the end of a month, the end of a year. Listen to an audio sample of Jobim, and have a very happy and safe New Year's Eve.
Song of the Day: Wintersong, composed by immortal alto saxophonist Paul Desmond, is based on the chord changes to the classic standard, "These Foolish Things." Listen to a sweet Paul Desmond-Gerry Mulligan version of this lovely seasonal ballad.
Song of the Day: All I Want for Christmas features the words and music of Walter Afanasieff and Mariah Carey, who can be seen in this jovial YouTube moment (with Johnny Depp). Check out as well this slower version by The Cheetah Girls.
Song of the Day: We Three Kings (Of Orient Are), written by the Reverend John Henry Hopkins III, is a classic Christmas carol. Check out a Claymation video of this song.
Song of the Day: We Need a Little Christmas, music and lyrics by Jerry Herman, originated in the Broadway production of "Mame." "Right this very minute," check out an audio clip by Angela Landsbury (from the 1966 Original Broadway Cast recording), and YouTube moments with Lucille Ball, Johnny Mathis, and Percy Faith.
Song of the Day: Santa Baby, music and lyrics by Joan Javits, Philip Springer, and Tony Springer, was a huge hit for Eartha Kitt, who passed away yesterday at the age of 81. Check out a few YouTube moments with Kylie Minogue, Madonna, and Eartha Kitt herself!
Song of the Day: Silent Night, written originally with German lyrics by Josef Mohr and music by Franz Xaver Gruber, was translated into English by John Freeman Young. It is one of those simple but lovely carols of the season. Take a listen to various versions of the carol here, and then listen to audio clips by Gene Autry, Josh Grobin, and Barbra Streisand. Merry Christmas to Notablog Readers.
Song of the Day: It's All Right with Me, words and music by the incomparable Cole Porter, from the musical "Can-Can," is one of the great American standards. Listen to audio clips of Harry Connick, Jr., Ella Fitzgerald, Mel Torme, Joe Pass, and Oscar Peterson. I'm dedicating this classic standard to Danny Stiles, who has been playing classic standards for eons on the radio in the New York metropolitan area, and who celebrates his 85th birthday today at John's Pizzeria at 260 West 44th Street in Manhattan. Happy birthday!
Song of the Day: I'm Getting Sentimental Over You, lyrics by Ned Washington, music by George Bassman, was immortalized by the orchestra of famed trombonist Tommy Dorsey. Listen to an audio clip of a vocal version by Ella Fitzgerald and an instrumental version by Gerry Mulligan, Check out also a YouTube clip of jazz guitar master Jim Hall and the original 78 rpm version of the Tommy Dorsey Orchestra. Thanksgiving is among those American family holidays that appeal to the very best of sentiments. A Happy and a Healthy Thanksgiving to all. And hearty appetite!
Song of the Day: Pata Pata features the words and music of Jerry Ragovoy and Miriam Makeba, who passed away today at the age of 76. This joyful track by "Mama Africa," as she was also known, is easily my favorite Makeba recording. Check out a live YouTube clip of Makeba as well as the original recording.
Song of the Day: Li'l Darlin', composed by the late, great Neal Hefti (who passed away on October 11, 2008), was a huge hit for the Count Basie Band. Hefti arranged this luscious tune and others on what has become known as the "Atomic Basie" album. Take a look at a Basie-Hefti YouTube moment, and at this all-too-brief clip of the great jazz guitarist Joe Pass.
Song of the Day: Maria, music by Leonard Bernstein, lyrics by Stephen Sondheim, is a classic tune from the great Broadway and film musical, "West Side Story." Bernstein would have turned 90 on August 25, 2008; tonight, tonight, WNYC radio begins a 13-day tribute to the master. This timeless song has been performed by everybody from Maynard Ferguson to Johnny Mathis (YouTube clips at those links). Take a look also at this YouTube clip from the Oscar-winning 1961 film. Celebrate the Maestro!
Song of the Day: Falling in Love with Love is a sweet song from the Richard Rodgers-Lorenz Hart musical, "The Boys from Syracuse." How apropos to be falling today... with the arrival of Fall (the Autumnal Equinox comes at 11:44 EDT). Listen to an audio clip of a Tony Bennett swing version and check out YouTube moments with Allan Jones (from the 1940 film version), Frank Sinatra (and in a swing arrangement too), Vic Damone, Sarah Vaughan with Benny Carter, and Bernadette Peters (when the song was revived for the 1997 Disney TV version of "Cinderella").
Song of the Day: Dragnet is credited to Miklos Rozsa (from whom the "dum-de-dum-dum" theme was drawn, first heard in "The Killers") and Walter Schumann. Known also as "Danger Ahead" and the "Dragnet March," the theme was a hit for the Ray Anthony Orchestra (YouTube clip at that link) in 1953 and for Stan Freberg thereafter (in a comedic take as "St. George and the Dragonet," YouTube clip at that link). And so concludes our 2008 TV Theme Tribute. Tonight, enjoy the 60th Primetime Emmy Awards!
Song of the Day: Looney Toons ("The Merry Go-Round Broke Down") (YouTube clip at that link), composed by Cliff Friend and Dave Franklin, is a true companion to the "Merrie Melodies" theme. This theme opened up some of my favorite cartoon shorts of all time, which included such greats as Bugs Bunny, Porky Pig, Daffy Duck, Elmer Fudd, Sylvester and Tweety.
Song of the Day: Merrie Melodies, composed by Charles Tobias, Murray Mechner, and Eddie Cantor, was a variation on the song "Merrily We Roll Along." This theme opened up a series of hilarious Warner Brothers cartoons. Look and listen to one of these cartoons at YouTube. And check out additional audio clips from these animated classics.
Song of the Day: The Jetsons, music and lyrics by William Hanna, Joseph Barbera and Hoyt Curtin, was the percussive, jazzy theme to one of my favorite prime-time cartoons as a kid. Check it out on YouTube.
Song of the Day: Love, American Style, music by Charles Fox, lyrics by Arnold Margolin, is the theme to a late 60s-early 70s TV anthology series that I watched and enjoyed as a kid. A pilot episode of "Happy Days" was first seen as a segment on this series. Check out the opening theme at YouTube.
Song of the Day: Underdog, composed by W. Watts Biggers, is the theme to the celebrated TV cartoon, which I watched religiously as a kid. I have yet to see the 2007 movie version, but it looks very cute. Check out a YouTube clip with the full theme.
Song of the Day: The Greatest American Hero ("Believe It Or Not"), music by Mike Post, lyrics by Stephen Geyer, was a huge 1981 hit for Joey Scarbury, from a TV series that I never really watched. But, growing up, I confess... I really liked the theme. Check out the full-song on YouTube, with clips from the TV series.
Song of the Day: The X-Files ("Materia Primoris," Main Title) (audio clip at that link), composed by Mark Snow, evokes all the mystery and tension of that show in its prime... one of my all-time favorites. Check out this midi too! And so today begins our Annual Tribute to TV Themes.
Song of the Day: Calabria, produced by Rune (DJ Enur), featuring the late Natasja Saad, is the soundtrack for one of the hottest Target commercials on the air. The two women roommates who stage a "dance off" to this track express infectious joy as they decorate their room (see the commercial on YouTube). The track features a sample from a Taana Gardner disco classic: "Work That Body" (YouTube clip at that link). Check out a full-version video clip of this track at YouTube.
Song of the Day: Holding On (full-length version at that link), music and lyrics by Philip Verdi and Joanne Barry, is the title track from the Joanne and Carl Barry album. This gorgeous song is a perfect tribute to today's birthday girl: the vocalist, Joanne Barry, who happens to be my sister-in-law. Happy birthday, with much love!
Song of the Day: Baby I'm a Star, music and lyrics by Prince, was featured on the soundtrack for "Purple Rain." Back in the day when I used to DJ, I did an edit of this energetic song for one of my sister's many award-winning high school dance teams. We also enjoyed seeing Prince do this classic in concert. Happy birthday, sister! Listen to an audio clip here.
Song of the Day: I Want You Back, music and lyrics by The Corporation, went to #1 on the Billboard Pop Chart in 1969. This "Grammy Hall of Fame" tune was also the first hit single for the Jackson Five. The lead singer of that group, Michael Jackson, turns 50 today. It's hard to believe that Madonna, Prince, and MJ are now all 50 years old! Check out a YouTube video of this classic track.
Song of the Day: I Wanna Be Your Lover, music, lyrics, and performance by Prince, was released on this date in 1979, becoming the artist's first bona fide pop hit single. Like Madonna, Prince celebrates his 50th birthday this year (he was born on June 7, 1958). Listen to an audio clip here (from the self-titled album "Prince").
Song of the Day: Give It 2 Me features the music and lyrics of Pharrell Williams and Madonna, who celebrates her 50th birthday today. This hot dance track is one of my favorites from her most recent release, "Hard Candy." Listen to an audio clip here and check out the YouTube video and a Paul Oakenfold remix.
Song of the Day: Shaft ("Theme from") features the music and lyrics of Isaac Hayes, who passed away on August 10, 2008. Written for the 1971 film of the same name, the song won an Oscar for Hayes, a soul music pioneer. One of the most hilarious moments in Oscar history, was seeing, or not seeing, Isaac Hayes, during a 2000 Academy Awards performance, in which the dry ice effect covered him in smoke. Host Billy Crystal quipped: "How do you lose Isaac Hayes?" Check out a YouTube "Shaft" video clip, and additional audio clips from this classic soundtrack album.
Song of the Day: Teach Me Tonight features the music of Gene de Paul and the lyrics of Sammy Cahn. Listen to a trio of audio clips by Count Basie ... with Joe Williams, Sammy Davis, Jr., and Joe Williams and Sarah Vaughan (Sassy also did a version with Oscar Peterson and Joe Pass). Then, check out clips by Al Jarreau, Amy Winehouse, Dinah Washington, Nat King Cole, and Chaka Khan. And, finally, listen to an audio clip of the 1954 chart hit by Jo Stafford, who, sadly, passed away yesterday at the age of 90.
Song of the Day: Your Face, music and lyrics by Peter Murphy, is from his elegant, exotic solo album, "Dust." To have seen Peter perform this live on stage in a mesmerizing encore at the Blender Theater was a transcendent experience; I'm so glad it was with you. Happy anniversary, sweetie! Check out a full-length clip at YouTube.
Song of the Day: (Get Your Kicks On) Route 66, words and music by Bobby Troup, is one of those songs that gives us a classic tour of (part of) America in song. Listen to audio clips of renditions by Perry Como, Mel Torme, The Manhattan Transfer, with pianist Oscar Peterson and guitarist Herb Ellis, Natalie Cole, and, her dad, my favorite, Nat King Cole. Happy Independence Day!
Song of the Day: This is My Life, words and music by Bruno Canfora and Antonio Amurri, with English lyrics by Norman Newell, was a huge hit for Shirley Bassey. (It was also recorded by Joanne Barry for her debut album, "This is Me.") The Bassey rendition has been on the lips of many a lip-syncing drag queen for eons. And it was also a perennial favorite on the jukebox at the Stonewall Inn, the bar that was raided by police on this date in 1969, leading to a series of violent reactions from its patrons. And so was born the modern gay liberation movement. Check out the site of the STONEWALL Veterans' Association. And then visit YouTube for a Bassey performance clip and the ever-classic disco version.
Song of the Day: Afternoon (full-length mp3 at that link) features the music of Philip Verdi and the lyrics of singer Joanne Barry, who provides the jazzy melodic vocals on this summery samba. This opening track to the album, "Holding On," which features a scintillating solo by guitarist Carl Barry, asks: "Can you feel summer's coming soon?" It sure is! It will be here at 7:59 pm EDT. Happy Summer Solstice!
Song of the Day: Everything's Coming Up Roses, music by Jule Styne, lyrics by Stephen Sondheim, is one of the highlights of "Gypsy," suggested by the memoirs of Gypsy Rose Lee. This is one of the great American musicals and Patti LuPone as Mama Rose gives the performance of a lifetime in today's Broadway revival, for which she won a much-deserved Tony Award last night (and brought down Radio City too with a terrific performance of this song!). Listen to an audio clip of LuPone, as well as renditions by Ethel Merman from the original 1959 Broadway production, Annie Ross, Rosalind Russell from the 1962 film version, Angela Lansbury from the 1970s revival,Tyne Daly from the 1989 Broadway revival, Bette Midler from the 1993 TV production, and Bernadette Peters from the 2003 revival.
Song of the Day: How Long Has This Been Going On?, composed by George and Ira Gershwin, is from the 1927 Broadway musical, "Funny Face," which starred the great Fred Astaire. Tonight the 62nd Annual Tony Awards celebrate the best of today's Broadway; this song helps us to remember the grand tradition of the Great White Way. Listen to audio clips of renditions by Boz Scaggs, Doc Severinsen and the "Tonight" Show band, Joe Pass, Judy Garland, Ella Fitzgerald, and, one of my all-time favorites, Sarah Vaughan.
Song of the Day: Dark Eyes derives from the poetry of Yevhen Hrebinka and the "Valse Hommage" of Florian Hermann. It has been performed by so many artists in so many settings (from Joe Venuti to Itzhak Perlman, audio clips at those links). But today we throw the spotlight on that remarkable innovator Les Paul, who celebrates his 93rd birthday. Having worshiped at the altar of the great gypsy jazz guitarist, Django Reinhardt, he is truly an "American Master." Check out the birthday boy at Iridium on Monday nights in New York City! Listen to an audio clip of Paul and take a look at YouTube (with some comic relief).
Song of the Day: The Andy Griffith Show ("The Fishin' Hole") (audio clip at that link) was composed by the late great Earle Hagen, who passed away at the age of 88 on May 26, 2008. It's a charming TV theme written by a guy who gave us such great tunes as "Harlem Nocturne." Listen also to an audio clip featuring Andy Griffith himself!
As a follow-up to my last post, check out two different views of the "American Idol" finale, one from Stephen Holden at the NY Times and the other from Jim Farber at the NY Daily News.
As most observers know, both contestants end up "winning" in the end. As Chris Daughtry has shown, one does not have to be the actual winner in order to win big... in award-winning albums and sales. Both Davids have the promise of wonderful careers ahead of them. But congratulations to David Cook, who won the 97-million vote finale by 12 million votes over David Archuleta.
Now that the competition is over, I'm turning my attention to the next Fox competition, one of my favorites: So You Think You Can Dance.
Don't ask me; I have no clue who will win tonight's "American Idol" finale. But it's David Cook vs. David Archuleta. Cook's take on "Billie Jean" remains, for me, the most memorable of the performances among either finalist. But I think Archuleta's young teen following might just put him in the winner's circle. We'll soon see!
Song of the Day: Secret Love, music by Sammy Fain, lyrics by Paul-Francis Webster, was a #1 Oscar-winning Best Song from the 1953 novie "Calamity Jane," in which it was performed by Doris Day (audio clip at that link). Listen also to audio clips from renditions by Connie Francis, Tommy Edwards, Nancy Wilson, Billy Stewart, Oscar Peterson, Joe Pass and Niels-Henning Orsted Pedersen, pianists Brad Mehldau and Dave McKenna, Mel Martin and the Benny Carter Quintet, and the Jack Cortner New York Big Band with a super Marvin Stramm on trumpet. Finally, check out an audio clip of Frank Sinatra with Nelson Riddle (and a YouTube video too); Sinatra passed away ten years ago on this date. My love of Francis Albert is not so secret: he was and still is the Chairman of the Board.
Song of the Day: Schindler's List ("Main Theme") (audio clip at that link), composed by John Williams, is from the shattering 1993 Oscar-winning score for Steven Spielberg's Oscar-winning film. To mark Holocaust Remembrance Day, this track features the magnificent violinist Itzhak Perlman. Take a look at a fantastic YouTube video clip of Perlman, with John Williams. And check out the other John Williams (the great classical guitarist) playing John Williams.
Back on April 29, 2005, my "Song of the Day" entry was Wayne Shorter's classic "Footprints." I highlighted one of Shorter's fine versions therein, but my favorite version, a jazz guitar tour de force by my brother Carl Barry, was not online at the time. I'm pleased to link to that version today (full-length audio clip here), which happens to be Carl's birthday! The track, from the album "Holding On," features the fine bass player Steve La Spina and the terrific drummer John Clay. Enjoy! And Happy Birthday, Bro!
Song of the Day: Ben-Hur ("The Miracle") [audio clip at that link], music by Miklos Rozsa, is a restatement of the central theme from this magnificent soundtrack, with hallelujah chorus bringing the film to a triumphant finale. A Happy Easter to all my Eastern Orthodox friends and family! Christos Anesti! (from St. Anthony's Greek Orthodox Monastery in Arizona, via Into the Light).
Song of the Day: Exodus ("Main Theme"), music by Ernest Gold, with lyrics added later by Pat Boone, is from the 1960 film, directed by Otto Preminger. It's a great theme to mark the arrival at sundown of Passover, the prelude to an exodus led by Moses out of Egypt. Listen to audio clips of this cinema theme from the original soundtrack, the Pat Boone vocal rendition, Percy Faith, a very cool Dizzy Gillespie, and the absolutely classic piano-and-orchestra rendition of Ferrante and Teicher.
Song of the Day: Ben-Hur ("The Galley") was composed by birthday boy Miklos Rozsa for a classic scene, the rowing of the galley slaves, in this 11-Oscar-winning masterpiece. The perfect wedding between cinematic scoring and film, this composition takes us from "battle speed" to "attack speed" to "ramming speed" in thrilling fashion. It is Rozsa's music that directs the pace here as much as the great director William Wyler. Check out the scene on YouTube, where Jack Hawkins as Quintus Arrius and Charlton Heston as Judah Ben-Hur, Galley Slave No. 41, match wits. And check out the YouTube Red Bull Spoof.
Song of the Day: Pushit features the music and lyrics of Maynard James Keenan and the band Tool. The song appears on the album Aenima (audio clip at that link), but my favorite version is one that breathes with kaleidoscopic instrumentation and vocals. It was recorded live for the band's 2-disc set, "Saliva!" A video version of that rendition is available in two parts: Part 1 and Part 2.
Song of the Day: Dirty Boots, words, music, and performance by Sonic Youth, is featured on the band's album, "Goo." There are a few hilarious comments in the film "Juno" about Sonic Youth (which has exhibited a fascination for Karen Carpenter and Joan Crawford in "Mildred Pierce"). Check out the music video on YouTube and a YouTube live performance too, and the full album line-up (with audio samples).
Song of the Day: Fools Rush In (Where Angels Fear to Tread), music by Rube Broom, lyrics by Johnny Mercer, has been recorded famously by Frank Sinatra when he was with Tommy Dorsey, and by Sinatra solo, as well as by Ricky Nelson and Elvis Presley (audio clips at artist links). A Happy April Fool's Day!
Song of the Day: King of Kings ("The Lord's Prayer") (audio clip at that link), composed by Miklos Rozsa, marks Easter for my Western Christian friends today, to whom I send my best wishes. This composition restates with great sensitivity a central theme from one of Rozsa's best scores.
Song of the Day: Roller Coaster (full-length audio track at that link), words and music by Carl and Joanne Barry, is one of my favorite tracks from the album "Holding On." Aside from Joanne's terrific scat singing and Carl's swinging guitar solo, this track boasts a mean rhythm section: bassist Steve LaSpina, who has toured and recorded with the fabulous guitarist Jim Hall, and drummer Eliot Zigmund, who, for years, played with the great pianist Bill Evans. This week marked the Spring awakening of Coney Island's Astroland Amusement Park, home of the world famous Cyclone, one of the world's great roller coasters, on which I have never taken a ride (I have enough intestinal trouble thankyouverymuch). With the Vernal Equinox arriving at 1:48 a.m. EDT, a Happy Spring to All!
Song of the Day: T.S.O.P. (The Sound of Philadelphia) was composed by legendary Philly soul producers Kenneth Gamble and Leon Huff, who, this week, received the "Ahmet Ertegun Award," at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction ceremony. Recorded by M.F.S.B. (featuring the Three Degrees), this song was introduced as the theme to television's "Soul Train." Listen to an audio clip of this classic dance anthem here and take a ride on the Soul Train at YouTube.
The Top 12 on "American Idol" begin their live competitions tonight on Fox.
I have a few early favorites, myself... but thought this article in the NY Times was an interesting summation of the pop phenomenon (Hat Tip, Aeon!).
Song of the Day: Walk, Don't Run, composed by the great jazz guitarist Johnny Smith, was also recorded by The Ventures, who were inducted last night into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Listen to audio clips of renditions by Johnny Smith, The Ventures, Count Basie, and the Joshua Breakstone Quartet.
Song of the Day: Burning Up features the words and music of Madonna, who is inducted tonight into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. I enjoyed dancing to the original 12" vinyl mix, which was less guitar-driven than its album incarnation on the singer's 1983 debut release. Listen to audio clips of the album version and that 12" single. Boy does this bring back memories...
Song of the Day: Tenderly, music by Walter Louis Gross and lyrics by Jack Lawrence, is one of the great popular standards. Listen to audio clips by vocalists Rosemary Clooney, Nat King Cole, Sarah Vaughan, Billy Eckstine, and Ella Fitzgerald and Satchmo, and instrumentalists Johnny Smith and Stan Getz, Oscar Peterson, Clifford Brown, Bill Evans and Don Elliott, and the Chet Baker Big Band.
Song of the Day: Lester Leaps In was composed and recorded by the great tenor saxophonist Lester Young ("Prez"). A more fitting song for a Leap Year Day I cannot find! Listen to audio clips by Lester Young, Count Basie, Charlie Parker (here too), James Moody, and a YouTube clip of Lionel Hampton with an All-Star Line-Up. And a very Happy Bissextile Day to All!
Song of the Day: Hooray for Hollywood, music by Richard A. Whiting, lyrics by Johnny Mercer, made its debut in the 1937 movie "Hollywood Hotel." The original film rendition featured Johnnie Davis, Francis Langford, and the Benny Goodman Orchestra. Listen to audio clips of renditions by a swinging Rosemary Clooney, Nancy Sinatra, and Doris Day (and Doris on YouTube too). There's also a YouTube video montage featuring the original rendition! As our annual Movie Music Tribute concludes, don't forget to check out the 80th Annual Oscars tonight!
Song of the Day: Superman ("Prelude and Main Title March") (audio clip at that link), composed by John Williams, is a rousing, heroic cinematic theme. It should be noted that Film Score Monthly has just issued an 8-CD Boxed Set of all the music from the various incarnations of the series.
Song of the Day: King Kong ("Tooth and Claw") (audio clip at that link), composed by James Newton Howard, is a highlight from the 2005 version of the iconic Big Ape tale, directed by Peter Jackson.
Song of the Day: Raiders of the Lost Ark ("The Raiders March") (audio clip at that link), composed by John Williams, evokes all the adventure of the Indiana Jones movies. The adventure begins again in May 2008, with "Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull" (trailer and full-length audio clip at that link). And take a look at a YouTube celebration of the "Indiana Jones" films and of John Williams conducting a live orchestral version of this classic theme.
Song of the Day: The Russia House ("Katya"/"Alone in the World"), composed by Jerry Goldsmith, with lyrics by Alan and Marilyn Bergman, is featured in both instrumental and vocal versions on the soundtrack album. The vocal version is sung by Patti Austin (audio clips to instrumental and vocal originals at that link). Perfect for the night of the full snow moon lunar eclipse, this is a lush, romantic composition. Listen to audio clips of the love theme recorded by the Jazz at the Movies Band and a haunting version by my sister-in-law, jazz vocalist Joanne Barry (complete recording at that link). That vocal rendition is a highlight from the album "Embraceable You" (yes, that's my Blondie on the cover of the CD); Joanne is accompanied by jazz guitarists Carl Barry (my brother) and Jack Wilkins (guest soloist).
Song of the Day: Body Heat ("Main Title") (soundtrack album audio clip at that link) is a bluesy, jazzy, steamy composition by the great John Barry. Listen to an audio clip of a rendition by the "Jazz at the Movies Band."
Song of the Day: The Empire Strikes Back ("Imperial March, Darth Vader's Theme"), composed by John Williams, is one of the best cinematic marches ever written. From one of the best movies in the "Star Wars" franchise, this one conjures up images of the Dark Side, heavy breathing and all! Listen to an additional audio clip here.
Song of the Day: Ben Hur ("Victory Parade, Parts 1 & 2") (audio clip at that link), composed by Miklos Rozsa, kicks off our annual film music tribute, which will take us right up to the 80th Annual Academy Awards. And as is also traditional around here, the Movie Music begins on my birthday (I turn 48 today!) with a selection from my favorite film score from my favorite movie written by my favorite film score composer. This regal composition is one of Rozsa's best.
Song of the Day: Hearts Take Time, words and music by Janis Ian and Kye Fleming, has been recorded by Diane Schuur (no audio clip available), and my sister-in-law Joanne Barry (audio clips at that link). A Happy Valentine's Day to one and all!
The 50th Annual Grammy Awards were televised last night, and I was delighted to see Herbie Hancock take "Best Album of the Year" for "River:The Joni Letters" (he also won in the "Best Contemporary Jazz Album" category). The last jazz album to win in this category was among my favorite albums of all time: "Getz/Gilberto" (1965) (though jazz-influenced albums have won many times since then, including projects by Frank Sinatra, Tony Bennett, Natalie Cole, and Quincy Jones).
Among the other multiple award winners: Amy Winehouse (5), Kanye West (4), Justin Timberlake (2) for "Love Stoned" (Best Dance Recording) and "What Goes Around... Comes Around" (Male Pop Vocal Performance); Chaka Khan (2), and the late Michael Brecker (2). Even Barak Obama won a Grammy ("Best Spoken Word Album"). So we have a couple of Grammy winners now vying for the Democratic nomination (Hillary Clinton won previously in the same category for "It Takes a Village").
Some of the performance highlights of the night: Ol' Blue Eyes (who appeared miraculously) alongside Alicia Keys in the opening number; Rihanna doing "Don't Stop the Music" during a reunion of The Time; an impromptu "That Old Black Magic" duet with Kid Rock and Keely Smith; Herbie Hancock and classical pianist Lang Lang doing "Rhapsody in Blue"; tributes to Luciano Pavarotti and the Beatles (the expected Michael Jackson tribute didn't happen); and an absolutely sizzling, tear-the-roof-off-the-house "Proud Mary" duet with Tina Turner and Beyonce.
I truly enjoyed the pairings of "old" and "new" throughout the broadcast.
Song of the Day: Don't Stop the Music, words and music by T. E. Hermansen, M.S. Eriksen, T. Dabney, and M. Jackson, is nominated for "Best Dance Recording" on tonight's 50th Annual Grammy Awards. This Rihanna hit (not a remake of yesterday's Yarbrough and Peoples track) has a great beat, a catchy hook, and a very familiar sample from Michael Jackson's "Wanna Be Startin' Somethin'." MJ will be on hand, they say, as contemporary artists pay tribute to "Thriller," which debuted in 1983 (a new 25th anniversary edition of "Thriller" comes out on February 12, 2008). Listen here to audio clips of today's song from the Rihanna album, "Good Girl Gone Bad." And check out a YouTube video clip too.
Song of the Day: Don't Stop the Music, words and music by Jonah Ellis, Lonnie Simmons, and Alisa Peoples, is a grinding, funky, synth-based, sleaze beat hit recorded by Yarbrough and Peoples. Watch (and listen) to this infectious 80s track at YouTube.
Song of the Day: Blue Bossa is a jazz standard composed by jazz trumpeter Kenny Dorham. It's a lilting bossa nova that has been recorded by many artists, including jazz greats Joe Pass and J. J. Johnson, super pianist McCoy Tyner, and Kenny Dorham himself (audio clips at those links). And watch a YouTube video performance by Zack Kim. Today is Super Bowl Sunday, and I'm cheering on Big Blue: Go Giants!
Song of the Day: Me and My Shadow features the words and music of Brooklynite Dave Dreyer, Al Jolson, and Billy Rose. Listen to audio clips of renditions by Judy Garland, Vic Damone, Peggy Lee, Dave Brubeck and Paul Desmond, Robbie Williams and Jonathan Wilkes in a paean to Frank Sinatra and Sammy Davis Jr., and James Caan, who sings the song to that "Funny Lady," Barbra Streisand. And speaking of shadows: Punxsutawney Phil saw his today... and forecast six more weeks of winter. But I'm with Staten Island Chuck, who didn't see his shadow, and forecast an early spring. Happy Groundhog Day!
Song of the Day: What Goes Around Comes Around, words and music by birthday boy Justin Timberlake, Timothy "Timbaland" Mosley, and Nate Hills, is from the fine album "FutureSex/LoveSounds." Listen to a full-length clip of this #1 pop hit at YouTube and a dance remix too. And check out the video with Scarlett Johannson and Shawn Hatosy. The original track features a nice groove and eclectic instrumentation, and Justin does a great job performing it in concert (yes, I saw him, and he was outstanding). Happy Birthday, Mr. Timberlake. And look out for his Pepsi commercial on Super Bowl Sunday.
Song of the Day: Meditation features the Portuguese lyrics of Newton Mendonca, the English lyrics of Norman Gimbel, and the luscious music of Antonio Carlos Jobim, who was born on this date in 1927. This is one of my all-time favorite melodies from one of my all-time favorite composers. Listen to audio clips from Stan Getz and Joao Gilberto, guitarist Charlie Byrd, Nancy Ames (with guitarist Laurindo Almeida), Frank Sinatra with Jobim, and Jobim himself.
"American Idol" began last night with a 2-hour premiere ... at an advantage in the TV ratings game, because the Writers' Strike has kept so many shows off the air.
It was a typical "AI" beginning: some good talent, some nightmares, lots of fun, as always. Looking forward to an entertaining season ...
It was one of my favorite songs, and now there's a nice article telling us about the real "Girl from Ipanema." Check out "'Ipanema' & The Sands of Time," by Dominick A. Merle from this past Sunday's New York Daily News.
Song of the Day: I'll Fall with Your Knife, a paean to commitment and to 'keeping the faith' against all odds, features the music and lyrics of Peter Murphy and Paul Statham. The song has been heard in several venues, including as the opening and closing theme of the 1997 teen movie, "The Trojan War" (where Tom Hiel delivers his own rendition as well). Take a look also at two YouTube moments: a "Samurai X" anime video and a glimpse of a live Peter Murphy concert appearance from May 2000. And check out audio clips from Peter's "Cascade," "Wild Birds: 1985-1995: The Best of the Beggars Banquet Years," and, my favorite rendition, from "aLive Just for Love." Happy Birthday, sweetie!
Song of the Day: It's the Most Wonderful Time of the Year, music and lyrics by Edward Pola and George Wyle, captures the wonder of the season perfectly. Listen to audio clips by Toni Braxton and Rosemary Clooney, and my two most favorite versions: the exuberant, joyous renditions by Andy Williams (and check out a shrift remix of that track too) and Johnny Mathis. And so ends our tribute to holiday songs, which began 12 days ago. A very happy, healthy, prosperous, and successful New Year to all my readers!
Song of the Day: Jingle Bell Rock, written by Joe Beal and Jim Boothe, is a fun-filled holiday tune. Listen to audio clips by Bobby Helms, Brenda Lee, Amy Grant, Randy Travis, and even Billy Idol (on YouTube)!!! Have a Rockin' (and Safe) New Year's Eve!
Song of the Day: Last Christmas, written by George Michael, has been recorded by so many artists, but it was first released by Wham. Listen to audio clips of renditions by the Cheetah Girls and Hilary Duff (the clip is actually available on the link labeled "Same Old Christmas"), and take a look on YouTube for a sweet ballad-to-dance version by Ashley Tisdale, a nice house-inflected version by Cascada, and the original Wham video.
Song of the Day: Rockin' Around the Christmas Tree, words and music by Johnny Marks, is a fun-filled seasonal romp. Listen to audio clips of renditions by Brenda Lee, Ronnie Spector and Darlene Love, and a Hannah Montana YouTube Clip.
Song of the Day: Carol for Another Christmas, composed by Henry Mancini, was the title track of a classic 1964 Rod Serling-scripted TV take on "A Christmas Carol," directed by Joseph Mankiewicz. I was first exposed to this beautiful instrumental as a child, watching the great Yule Log on WPIX-TV. It's one of those sensitively performed compositions, which has had a tendency to bring a bit of a puddle to my tear ducts. Listen to an audio clip of Henry Mancini (here too).
Song of the Day: Coventry Carol is a traditional English carol from the sixteenth century whose words are attributed to Robert Croo. I always associated this gorgeous, haunting carol with the alternate version of "Away in a Manger," because it was recorded in a medley by the Living Strings (featured on an album, "The Spirit of Christmas," which I finally got after about 35 years of searching for it!). Listen to audio clips of versions by The King's Sisters, the Mediaeval Baebes, and the Swingle Sisters.
Song of the Day: A Holly Jolly Christmas, music and lyrics by Johnny Marks, has been recorded by several artists, including Burl Ives and Alan Jackson (audio clips at those links). I was first introduced to this song as a kid, in my annual viewing of one of my favorite animated Christmas tales of all time: "Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer."
Song of the Day: A Child is Born, words and music by Alec Wilder and Thad Jones, is a song that has come to be identified with this day, but it has also become a jazz standard. Listen to audio clips of renditions by Thad Jones and Mel Lewis, Diane Reeves, Bill Evans, Bill Evans and Tony Bennett, and, finally, Oscar Peterson, who passed away on Sunday, December 23, 2007. A sad loss for lovers of music to contemplate on this Christmas Day. Rest in peace.
Song of the Day: It Came Upon a Midnight Clear, words by Edmund Hamilton Sears, music by Richard Storrs Willis, is one of those Christmas songs that has been recorded by many artists. Listen to audio clips of renditions by Josh Grobin, Mannheim Steamroller, and guitar greats Joe Pass and Jack Wilkins, each of whom casts his own magic on this classic carol. Meanwhile, it's Christmas Eve: Don't forget to Track Santa!
Song of the Day: Here Comes Santa Claus, words and music by Gene Autry and Oakley Haldeman, is another holiday favorite. Listen to an audio clip of the Gene Autry version.
Song of the Day: Frosty the Snowman, words and music by Steve "Jack" Rollins and Steve Nelson, is the perfect song for the Winter Solstice, which arrives at 1:08 a.m., Eastern time. And now begins the march back toward the light! Listen to an audio clip of the famous Gene Autry and the Cass Country Boys version of this seasonal favorite. And check out a YouTube video clip of the Rankin-Bass animated classic, with Jimmy Durante singing the title track.
Song of the Day: Grandma Got Run Over By a Reindeer, written by Randy Brooks, was recorded by Dr. Elmo. This crazy comedy Christmas classic can be viewed on YouTube. And check out the rap version and the remix too. Today begins our Annual Holiday Music Tribute!
Song of the Day: Everybody Dance (Clap Your Hands), words and music by Bernard Edwards and Nile Rogers, was a huge hit for Chic (YouTube clip at that link). And for a nice twist on an old dance classic, check out a new version recorded by the great Deborah Cox (YouTube clip at that link).
Song of the Day: It's Impossible is the English language version by Sid Wayne of a Spanish standard "Somos Novios" by Armando Manzanero. Listen to audio clips of Spanish-language renditions by Manzanero himself, Luis Miguel, and, in a YouTube clip, Andrea Boccelli and Christina Aguilera. Then check out audio clips of English-language renditions by Elvis Presley, and, my favorite, Perry Como (check out a YouTube full-length version of the Como classic).
Song of the Day: That's All, words and music by Alan Brandt and Bob Haymes, is a standard of the Great American Songbook (and I especially love a version recorded by my sister-in-law, jazz singer Joanne Barry). Listen to audio clips of renditionsâsome sweet, some swingâby Nat King Cole, Michael Buble, and Bobby Darin.
Song of the Day: A Song for You, words and music by Leon Russell, has been recorded by countless artists. Listen to audio clips from renditions by Leon Russell himself, Carmen McRae, the Carpenters, Dusty Springfield, Andy Williams, Ray Charles, Natalie Cole, the Temptations, Donny Hathaway (Elliot Yamin sure was influenced by him), and, my favorite recent recording, by Christina Aguilera and Herbie Hancock.
Song of the Day: Makes Me Wonder features the words and music of Adam Levine, Jesse Carmichael, and Mickey Madden of Maroon 5. Check out the YouTube video clip of this infectious pop hit.
Song of the Day: Proud Mary, written by John Fogerty, has been recorded by many artists. Though I do enjoy the original Creedence Clearwater version, my favorite version remains that of the Ike and Tina Turner Revue. Ike Turner, who passed away on December 12, 2007, provided the deep vocal counterpoint to Tina Turner's "nice and rough" vocals on their classic take of this song. They won a 1971 Grammy award for Best R&B Performance by a Group. Listen to audio clips of the original Creedence Clearwater Revival version and the scalding rendition of the Ike and Tina Turner Revue.
Song of the Day: You Should Be Dancing, written and performed by the Bee Gees, features that soaring Barry Gibb falsetto. This song famously framed John Travolta's classic disco dance sequence (YouTube clip at that link) on the flashing floor of Brooklyn's 2001 Odyssey (which later became a famous gay dance club known as Spectrum). Yes, I'd been to that club, and had danced on that floor, long before the establishment closed for good. Ah, memories ... Listen to an audio clip of this track here. And so concludes our 9-day tribute to "Saturday Night Fever," which debuted on this date, 30 years ago. I'm goin' dancin'...
Song of the Day: K-Jee, composed by Charles Hearndon and Harvey Fuqua, was performed on the soundtrack by MFSB, giving disco an added dash of Philly soul. This one can be heard in full on YouTube; it's a remake of a recording by the Nite-Liters (audio clip at that link).
Song of the Day: Disco Inferno, music and lyrics by L. Green and R. Kersey, was one of the hottest dance cuts featured on the soundtrack of "Saturday Night Fever" (nice Travolta interview at that link). A #1 dance hit by the Philly dance band, The Trammps, this one still sizzles ("Burn Baby, Burn!"). And it also reminds us that the soundtrack brought together not only music from the Bee Gees, but music from an era. The soundtrack may not have even been nominated for an Oscar, but it took the 1978 Grammy for "Album of the Year." Take a look at the original Trammps video, and then check out alternative YouTube moments, renditions by Cyndi Lauper (another Cyndi audio mix here), Tina Turner, and Madonna (in an "Inferno"-laced remix of "Music," that is a tribute to the "Saturday Night Fever" disco era).
Song of the Day: Salsation (YouTube clip at that link), written and performed by David Shire, is another classic instrumental dance cut, an integration of disco, jazz, and Latin influences, from the "Saturday Night Fever" soundtrack. Listen to an audio clip of this track here.
Song of the Day: Manhattan Skyline (a poignant YouTube clip at that link) was written and performed by David Shire. Featured on the "Saturday Night Fever" soundtrack, it is a lyrical disco paean to a skyline of hope for the young Brooklynite, Tony Manero, played by John Travolta. Also listen to an audio clip of this track here.
Song of the Day: More Than a Woman, music and lyrics by the Bee Gees, was featured in two versions on the "Saturday Night Fever" soundtrack. Listen to audio clips of renditions by the famously falsetto Bee Gees and a group of five brothers, who formed a super R&B, disco, and soul band named Tavares.
Song of the Day: If I Can't Have You, written by the Bee Gees, was performed by Yvonne Elliman on the soundtrack to "Saturday Night Fever." Listen here to an audio clip of this sweet melodic song about the tribulations of love.
Song of the Day: How Deep is Your Love, written and performed by the Bee Gees, was a #1 hit for an astounding 17 weeks in 1977-1978. Listen to an audio clip of this melodic "Saturday Night Fever" song here.
Song of the Day: Stayin' Alive, written by Barry, Robin, and Maurice Gibb, was a huge #1 hit for them, as the Bee Gees. It was the opening theme of a movie that encapsulated so much about the disco era: "Saturday Night Fever." When I first saw the film on the big screen in 1977, I found it a bit depressing in its depiction of the tragic lives of so many of its characters. The film and even its Broadway incarnation provided more than a few moments of both reflection ... and entertainment. And while I've mentioned other cuts from the famous soundtrack, including "Open Sesame," "Night on Disco Mountain," and "A Fifth of Beethoven," none is more identified with the film than this one. It even shows up again in the film's sequel of the same title. And it has been spoofed countless times ("Now you can tell by the way I wear my pants / that I'm a man / Can't take no chance"...). Today begins a 9-day tribute to the soundtrack of "Saturday Night Fever," still one of the biggest-selling, and most influential, albums of all time. The film celebrates the 30th anniversary of its debut on December 14, 2007. Many covers of this song have been recorded, but it's always best to begin at the beginning. Listen to an audio clip of this track by the Bee Gees.
Song of the Day: Say it Right (lyrics and YouTube clip at that link), words and music by Nelly Furtado, Tim "Timbaland" Mosley, and Nate Hills, has a killer sleaze beat hook. Listen to an audio clip of this track from the album "Loose."
Song of the Day: All Across the City was composed by Jim Hall, the great jazz guitarist, who was born on this date in 1930. Listen to various audio clips of this haunting jazz classic: the brilliant Jim Hall-Bill Evans duet; a lush Jim Hall version; and sensitive collaborations of Jim Hall with Paul Desmond and with the great Pat Metheny too. Happy birthday, Mr. Hall!
Song of the Day: The Way I Are features the words and music of T. Mosley, N. Hills, B. Muhammad, C. Nelson, J. Maultsby, and Keri Hilson, who can be heard along with rapper D.O.E. and, of course, Timbaland, on vocals. Take a look at the YouTube video clip of this sizzling dance track.
Song of the Day: Beat It, words, music, and performance by Michael Jackson, was one of the biggest hits from the album, "Thriller," which was released twenty-five years ago today. Jim Farber's recollection gets it right; this brilliant Quincy Jones-produced album defined a remarkable moment in pop cultural history on so many levels. Listen here to an audio clip of this classic track, with its scintillating Eddie van Halen electric guitar solo, and watch the video that had a huge impact on pop music.
Song of the Day: Get Down, words and music by Todd Terry, C. Gonzalez, C. Sosa, T. McDonald, and C. Ryden, is a fierce house track of the Todd Terry All Stars, featuring Kenny Dope, DJ Sneak, Terry Hunter, and Tara McDonald (who sings on the track). I first heard this club burner on Party 105.3, my favorite dance music station (broadcasting from Long Island, New York). Listen to various remixes of this hot dance cut here, here, here, and here. And check out an excerpt of Tara McDonald's performance on her MySpace page.
Song of the Day: Looking for You features the words and music of Kirk Franklin, with a classic sample taken from "Haven't You Heard" (audio clip at that link), written by Patrice Rushen, C. Mims, S. Brown, and F. Washington. This is one of those rousing gospel-inflected songs of thanks. If you're not religious, it still makes you want to go to church! Whether or not you're turned on by the lyrics, the music is divine. Listen to an audio clip here. And a Happy Thanksgiving to all!
Robert Goulet has shown up a number of times in my "Song of the Day" entries, including "If Ever I Would Leave You" and "Call Me Irresponsible."
Goulet passed away yesterday, awaiting a lung transplant, at the age of 73. My condolences to his family.
Song of the Day: Tubular Bells, written and performed by Mike Oldfield, is a composition that has been most identified with one of the spookiest movies ever made: "The Exorcist." Listen to an audio clip here (specifically Part One). And take a look at this YouTube remix. And then, pop "The Exorcist" into your DVD player and have a Scary, Happy Halloween.
Song of the Day: Born to Be Alive, music, lyrics, and performance by Patrick Hernandez, was a huge #1 dance hit in 1979. Happy 50th anniversary to Atlas Shrugged, the Ayn Rand novel that celebrates human beings who are ... born to be alive! Check out this song on YouTube.
Song of the Day: Infatuation (YouTube clip at that link), written by Winston Negron, was one of my favorite 1980s synth club tracks. Performed by Up Front and remixed by Edward T. Colon, it was a New York area dance club smash in 1983.
Song of the Day: Ride Like the Wind features the music, lyrics, and performance of Christopher Cross. An 80s hit, the song also boasts superb backing vocals by Michael McDonald. Listen to an audio clip here and take a look at this YouTube video clip and this one too. As we prepare to rake the wind-swept leaves of fall, a Happy Autumn to one and all!
Song of the Day: Jeopardy (not that one) features the music and lyrics of Greg Kihn and Steve Wright. Listen to an audio clip of the original Greg Kihn Band hit. And check out an audio clip of the Weird Al Yankovic lyrical twist on this song.
Song of the Day: Jeopardy (Think Music), composed by the late, great Merv Griffin, is one of the most recognizable TV themes of all time, and one of my favorites too! Listen to an audio clip here. With tonight's showing of the 59th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards, we conclude our third annual mini-tribute to TV Themes!
Song of the Day: The Flintstones features the words and music of Hoyt Curtin, Joseph Barbera and William Hanna. The show was inspired by another one of my all-time favorites: "The Honeymooners." Listen to an audio clip of the TV theme here.
Song of the Day: Brian's Song ("The Hands of Time"), music by Michel Legrand, lyrics by Marilyn and Alan Bergman, was the main theme from the poignant television movie of the same name, starring James Caan and Billy Dee Williams. Listen to audio clips of versions by Sarah Vaughan and Michel Legrand.
Song of the Day: Secret Agent Man, words and music by P. F. Sloan and Steve Barri, was performed by Johnny Rivers, whose version hit #3 in 1966. Today kicks off the 2007 mini-tribute to TV Themes. Listen to audio clips from Johnny Rivers and The Ventures.
Song of the Day: O Sole Mio, music by Eduardo di Capua, lyrics by Giovanni Capurro, is one of the most famous Neapolitan songs ever written. I post it in honor of Luciano Pavarotti, the great Italian tenor, who passed away today. Listen to audio clips of renditions by Enrico Caruso, Mario Lanza, Placido Domingo, and, of course, Luciano himself. Rest in peace.
Song of the Day: Cherish features the words and music of Terry Kirkman, a founding member of The Association, which scored a Number 1 hit with this song in 1966. Listen to audio clips of renditions by The Association and Nancy Ames.
Song of the Day: I'd Rather Be Blue Over You (Than Happy with Somebody Else), words and music by Fred Fisher and Billy Rose, was introduced by Fanny Brice in the 1928 film "My Man." Of course, Brice first became famous in the Ziegfeld Follies. Today is the one hundredth anniversary of the birth of the Ziegfeld Follies (hat tip to David Hinckley). Marking the centennial, "The Big Broadcast" is featured on New York's Fordham University radio station WFUV (90.7 FM) tonight, 8 p.m. to midnight! Listen to this recording of Fanny Brice (with the rarely heard introduction) and also an audio clip from the 1968 movie version of "Funny Girl," with Barbra Streisand.
Song of the Day: Spirit, music, lyrics, and performance by Bauhaus, first appeared on the album, "The Sky's Gone Out" (audio clip at that link). A music video of the song is included on the video compilation, "Shadow of Light" (video clip on YouTube). But my favorite renditions, capped by the energetic performances of Peter Murphy, are those featured on "Gotham" (audio clip at that link) and the guitar-laced, percussive version from 1982 at the Old Vic, in London, featured under the title of "We Love Our Audience" on "Archive" (video clip on YouTube). "Shadow of Light" and "Archive" were coupled as a 2005 DVD release. "Strip your feet of lead my friend ... Lift your heart with soaring song ... Change the lows to highs ..." Happy anniversary, Sweetie!
Song of the Day: 1812 Overture, composed by Tchaikovsky, has no historical connection to Independence Day celebrations, but it is heard regularly on the Fourth of July. Listen to audio clips performed by the Philadelphia Orchestra, conducted by Eugene Ormandy and the Minnesota Orchestra, with commentary by Deems Taylor. Have a Happy and a Healthy Fourth!
Song of the Day: Blue Moon, music by Richard Rodgers, lyrics by Lorenz Hart, is just the right song to pick today, the occasion of the Blue Moon. There's a classic Frankie Lane-Michel Legrand rendition of this song (but no audio clip). But there are so many other renditions from which to choose: Ella Fitzgerald, Django Reinhardt and Coleman Hawkins, Mel Torme, The Marcels, and Sha Na Na. And as this past week marked the 38th anniversary of the Stonewall riots and the birth of the modern gay liberation movement, check out the Blue Moon Resort, the Blue Moon Cafe, and the Blue Moon B&B.
Song of the Day: Summer Me, Winter Me, music by Michel Legrand, lyrics by Alan and Marilyn Bergman, greets the Summer Solstice, which arrives at 2:06 p.m., Eastern time. And a belated happy birthday to the maestro, Michel Legrand, who is celebrating his 75th birthday year (and whose trailblazing "Legrand Jazz" was recorded in June 1958). I adore a Sarah Vaughan rendition of this lovely song (but can't find any audio clips of it online, except on Rhapsody). Listen to audio clips by Barbra Streisand, Ranee Lee, Frank Sinatra, and Legrand hmself. And Happy Summer!
Song of the Day: What I Did For Love, music by Marvin Hamlisch, lyrics by Edward Kleban, is one of the highlights from Michael Bennett's "A Chorus Line," among my favorite Broadway productions. The musical, which made its debut in 1975, is nominated for a Tony Award for "Best Revival of a Musical." Before watching the American Theatre Wing's Tony Awards this evening, listen to audio clips of renditions of this song from the original cast album, the revival, and artists as diverse as Grace Jones and Engelbert Humperdinck.
Song of the Day: With a Little Help From My Friends, words and music by John Lennon and Paul McCartney, is from "Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band," which turns 40 today. A classic, this Beatles song has been recorded by many other artists as well, including Joe Cocker and Brasil 66 (audio clips at those links).
Song of the Day: This Guy's (Girl's) In Love with You features the words and music of Burt Bacharach (whose birthday was last weekend) and Hal David. Listen to audio clips of renditions by Herb Alpert, Harry Connick, Jr., Aretha Franklin, Dionne Warwick, Petula Clark, and Dusty Springfield (audio clips at those links).
Song of the Day: I Should Care, music by Axel Stordahl and Paul Weston, lyrics by Sammy Cahn, made its debut in the 1945 Esther Williams-Van Johnson film, "Thrill of a Romance." It has been recorded by Frank Sinatra, Martha Tilton, June Christy, Nat King Cole, Mel Torme, Boz Scaggs, pianists Bill Evans, Oscar Peterson, and Thelonious Monk, and birthday boy Duke Ellington, among many other artists (audio clips at those links). My brother, guitarist Carl Barry, who also celebrates his birthday today, has performed this tune brilliantly, both as a solo artist and with vocalist Jack Michaels. Happy Birthday, Bro!
On April 18, 1907, composer Miklos Rozsa was born in Budapest, Hungary. Today, April 18, 2007, I celebrate the Centennial of the maestro's birth.
As readers may know, I have often featured Rozsa's music in my "Song of the Day" entries. But I officially kicked off the Centennial Celebration back in April 2006 with this entry. I concluded my tribute over the past week, beginning here and ending here (though, for sure, there will be many more Rozsa entries to come in my music diary).
Rozsa was not only the composer of nearly 100 film scores; he was also the composer of truly wonderful concert works. For those who have not explored the maestro's corpus, let me recommend a few links and books. First, readers should acquaint themselves with the work of the Miklos Rozsa Society, whose founder and director John Fitzpatrick has done a great job throughout the years, exploring and extending our appreciation of Rozsa's life and music.
Second, let me recommend two books and an article: The first book is Rozsa's own Double Life (New York, Wynwood Press, 1982; 1989), which is truly "a Spellbinding Autobiography of Success and Survival in the Golden Age of Hollywood." The book includes a foreword by Antal Dorati, and a preface by Andre Previn. It is out of print now, but can be found in many used book venues.
The second book is Jeffrey Dane's new one: A Composer's Notes: Remembering Miklos Rozsa, which includes a foreword by Leonard Pennario. It is published by iUniverse (Lincoln, Nebraska: 2006).
There is also my introductory article, first published in The Free Radical. It is available online, and also as a PDF.
And, of course, let me recommend that readers listen to Rozsa's soundtracks and concert works, which are available on CD.
Finally, let me remind readers that Turner Classic Movies begins a wonderful centennial tribute to the composer tonight, at 8 pm, Eastern time. The "special event" showcases four films that Rozsa scored. It starts with a showing of "The Killers" (1946), and continues with "Brute Force" (1947), "Ben-Hur" (1959), and "The Lost Weekend" (1945).
Rozsa was nominated 17 times for Oscars, and was a three-time winner. From his film noir scoring contributions to his scores for grand epics to his wonderful concert works, he remains, in my view, one of the finest composers of the twentieth century.
Cited at Liberty and Power Group Blog and at The Rozsa Forum.
Song of the Day: Ben-Hur ("The Battle") (audio clip at that link) is one of the most rousing cinematic achievements in the Miklos Rozsa film score canon. No tribute would be complete without a nod to my all-time favorite film score. Rozsa's music for the naval battle, an action-packed highlight of the 1959 William Wyler-directed "Ben-Hur", remains one of his great Academy-Award winning cinematic moments. And so we conclude our Centennial Celebration of the music of Miklos Rozsa on the occasion, today, of his 100th birthday. Tune in to Turner Classic Movies to see a tribute to Rozsa-scored films throughout the day.
Song of the Day: The Killers ("Main Title") is from the 1946 movie, which boasted one of Miklos Rozsa's classic film noir scores. It actually introduced the "dum-de-dum-dum" theme, which (along with Rozsa's score for "The Naked City") inspired the opening notes for the television series, "Dragnet" (audio clip at that link). Listen to an audio clip of the "Main Title" here.
Song of the Day: Sodom and Gomorrah ("Intermezzo") (audio clip at that link) is a bold cinematic theme written by Miklos Rozsa. Check out the new 100th anniversary special 2-CD edition of this soundtrack!
Song of the Day: Concerto for Cello and Orchestra (Opus 32) was composed by Miklos Rozsa at the request of cellist Janos Starker. Listen to audio clips from three renditions: one recorded by cellist Lynn Harrell with the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra; another recorded by cellist Raphael Wallfisch with the BBC Concert Orchestra; and yet another recorded by cellist Brinton Smith with the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra.
Song of the Day: Concerto for Viola (Opus 37) (audio clips at that link, featuring viola soloist Paul Silverthorne) is a richly textured four-movement work that is one of composer Miklos Rozsa's orchestral triumphs.
Song of the Day: The Vintner's Daughter (12 variations on a French folk song) (audio clips at that link), composed by Miklos Rozsa, is based on a poem by Juste Olivier, which was set to a French folk-song. It has an element of impressionism, which is captured as well by pianist Sara Davis Buecher (audio clips at that link).
Song of the Day: Hungarian Nocturne (Opus 28, Notturno Ungherese] is composer Miklos Rozsa's "attempt to recapture the rare beauty of the nights" he remembered in rural Hungary. For me, it evokes the rare beauty of Rozsa's melodic sensibility. Listen to an audio clip here, performed by the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra, conducted by James Sedares. Today begins my one-week tribute to the great Miklos Rozsa, which will culminate on April 18th, to mark the centennial of the maestro's birth (check out my other Rozsa tributes as well). (Noted too at the Miklos Rozsa Society's Rozsa Forum.)
Song of the Day: These Foolish Things (Remind Me of You), music by Jack Strachey and Harry Link, lyrics by Holt Marvell, has been recorded by Benny Goodman (and here with Charlie Christian too), Frank Sinatra, Nat King Cole, Etta James, Ella Fitzgerald, Rod Stewart, and Bryan Ferry, among many others. Happy April Fool's Day!
Song of the Day: Crocodile Rock features the lyrics of Bernie Taupin and the music of birthday boy, Elton John, who celebrates his 60th tonight with his 60th concert at Madison Square Garden in New York City. One of my all-time favorite Elton songs, this one still rocks. Listen to an audio clip here. And Happy Birthday, Sir Elton!
Song of the Day: Morning Mood is from the "Peer Gynt Suite" (No. 1, Op. 46, Allegretto pastorale) by Edvard Grieg. The opening of this classical classic reminds me of the rising sun and the birth of Spring. Listen to an audio clip here, played by the New Philharmonia Orchestra, and celebrate the Vernal Equinox, which arrives today at 8:07 p.m. EDT. Go balance an egg on its end!
Song of the Day: You're Gonna Hear From Me, words and music by Dory Previn and Andre Previn, is from the 1965 film "Inside Daisy Clover." Listen to audio clips from renditions by Barbra Streisand, Frank Sinatra, and, my favorite, Nancy Wilson.
Song of the Day: Love Will Find a Way, music and lyrics by Lionel Richie and Greg Phillinganes, is one of my all-time favorite tracks from Richie's wonderful "Can't Slow Down" album. It's a soulful sleaze-beat R&B scorcher. Listen to an audio clip here.
Song of the Day: The Untouchables ("The Strength of the Righteous") is the main title to the 1987 film, composed by Ennio Morricone, who will be honored this evening at the 79th Annual Academy Awards with a long overdue Lifetime Achievement Award. The score to this film was nominated for a 1987 Academy Award for Best Original Score. Listen to an audio clip here. And so comes to an end our 2007 Film Music Tribute.
Song of the Day: The Adventures of Robin Hood ("Duel, Victory, and Epilogue"), composed by the great Erich Korngold, is from one of the finest motion picture soundtracks of all time, winner of the 1938 Oscar for Best Original Score. From the rousing Errol Flynn swashbuckling adventure, listen to an audio clip here.
Song of the Day: Cheek to Cheek, music and lyrics by Irving Berlin, is featured in the classic Fred Astaire film, "Top Hat." It received a 1935 Oscar nomination in the "Best Song" category. Listen to audio clips of renditions by Frank Sinatra, Ella Fitzgerald, and of course, from the original film, Fred Astaire. My favorite jazz rendition of this song is by alto sax player Phil Woods, "Live from the Showboat," an album that won the 1977 Grammy for "Best Instrumental Jazz Performance, Group" (unfortunately no audio clip is available).
Song of the Day: Let's Hear it for Me is a John Kander and Fred Ebb gem sung in grand style by Barbra Streisand from the film "Funny Lady," the 1975 sequel to "Funny Girl. Listen to an audio clip from the original soundtrack here.
Okay, so I have yet to watch this week's installments, but at least I know who the Top 24 are.
I'm very ambivalent... these folks have a lot to prove. In fact, my impression is that they may have gotten rid of a few people who should not have bit the dust.
What are your thoughts?
Song of the Day: King of Wishful Thinking features the words and music of Martin Page, and Peter Cox and Richard Drummie of Go West. This hit song, an ode to heartbreak, was featured on the soundtrack for "Pretty Woman" (audio clip at that link).
Song of the Day: Star Wars ("Main Theme"), composed by John Williams, is from the classic soundtrack that won the 1977 Oscar for Best Original Score. Listen to an audio clip of this famous theme here.
Song of the Day: Singin' in the Rain, music by Nacio Herb Brown, lyrics by Arthur Freed, was first heard in the "Hollywood Revue of 1929," but was immortalized in the 1952 film by Gene Kelly. That film, with its classic screenplay by the late great Betty Comden and Adolph Green, is one of Hollywood's grand musicals. Listen to an audio clip from the film here.
Song of the Day: Love is a Many-Splendored Thing, music by Sammy Fain, lyrics by Paul Francis Webster, was the 1955 Oscar winner for Best Song from the film of the same title. Listen to audio clips from the Four Aces, Frank Sinatra, and Barry Manilow.
Song of the Day: Ben-Hur ("Homecoming"), composed by the great Miklos Rozsa, opens my annual film music tribute, which will extend through Oscar Day, February 25, 2007. This year, I will feature a mix of cues and songs from the movies. Today also happens to be my birthday; as in 2005 and 2006, I choose a track from my favorite film score of all time. Listen to an audio clip here.
Song of the Day: K.I.S.S.I.N.G., words and music by Dana Merino and Guy Babylon, is only one of many kissing songs that could be noted on this day. This one is sung in grand style by Siedah Garrett; an audio clip of the album version is available here. That version, however, does not compare remotely to the Shep Pettibone and Steve Peck house remixes that Garrett recorded separately for a 12" vinyl single (a Brothers in Rhythm remix followed some years later). Happy Valentine's Day!
Song of the Day: That's My Desire, music by Helmy Kresa, lyrics by Carroll Loveday, was a huge hit for Frankie Laine, who passed away yesterday at the age of 93. His voice was one of those heard in the household of my youth; I will never forget some of his famous recordings. Listen to audio clips of this classic here and here.
Song of the Day: If You Go Away, words and music by Jacques Brel (English translation by Rod McKuen), speaks of a "summer day" ... which is precisely what I'd like right now. There's not too much to complain about this winter in New York City, as it has been milder than usual. However, we are expecting a bit of snow, ice, and rain tonight. Ugh. But hey, only 14 days till pitchers and catchers report to the Yankee Spring Training Camp! In any event, this is a terrific song that has been recorded by artists such as Damita Jo, Frank Sinatra, and Dusty Springfield (audio clips at those links). I first heard this song when my sister-in-law, Joanne Barry, performed it at Gil Hodges' Grand Slam Cocktail Lounge.
Song of the Day: Limehouse Blues, written by Philip Braham and Douglas Furber, dates to 1924. Some 14 years before that, on this date, the great "gyspy" jazz guitarist Django Reinhardt was born (though some say it was January 23rd). Listen to an audio clip of this song, featuring the hard-driving Django (with violinist Stephane Grappelli and the Quintet of the Hot Club of France). And check out the classic Joe Pass "Django" tribute recording, which is available for download here.
Song of the Day: Nights (Feel Like Getting Down) features the words and music of Nigel Martinez and Billy Ocean, who sings this cool and funky 1981 disco track. Listen to an audio clip here.
I first heard him when he played with his brother Randy as part of the Brecker Brothers. Whether he was heard on pop tracks, like "Same Old Lang Syne" or playing a haunting saxophone synthesizer on "In a Sentimental Mood," Michael Brecker was a consummate jazz musician.
After a long bout with leukemia, Brecker passed away on Saturday, January 13, 2007. Influenced by John Coltrane (and Coltrane's widow, Alice, passed away this weekend too) and the fusion sounds of the 1970s and 80s, Brecker actually completed his final album two weeks ago.
My condolences to his friends and family.
Song of the Day: Django, an elegy composed by John Lewis, was recorded famously by the Modern Jazz Quartet. But my favorite version remains the one recorded by immortal jazz guitarist Joe Pass, who was born on this date in 1929. That version is the opening track on Pass's tribute album to another immortal jazz guitar great, Django Reinhardt, to whom this piece was dedicated. It remains my favorite Pass album of all time. Listen to audio clips of the Pass recording and the MJQ recording.
This morning, I came across an article entitled "Conversations with John Williams," by author Jack Sullivan, whose book Hitchcock's Music I mentioned in my post on "Hitchcock and the Art of the Score." The article is published in the current Chronicle of Higher Education, which means you'll need a subscription in order to read it. For those who don't have a subscription, here's a little bit about the essay.
Sullivan tells us that John Williams, "Hollywood's premier composer," echoes the arguments of "[h]is predecessors Erich Korngold and [Bernard] Herrmann," who believed "that film music helped keep classical alive..." Williams "is convinced this phenomenon is now truer than ever."
"Purists will not like that," he admits, and he himself is emotionally torn. "As musicians, we don't like to think we need visual aids to project music. It should be able to engage us aurally and intellectually without a visual distraction. I'm painfully aware of that problem, but as you and I have discussed before, we are visual addicts, stimulated by computer or movie screens. People have their eyes glued to something all the time. For that generation, it's hard to listen to Beethoven and be completely engaged in a way that we would prefer them to be. But I think to ignore that fact is to ignore a reality that is with us; the audiovisual coupling as expressed in film music is something that is really with us to stay because of the way we live."
Sullivan reminds us of what I'd call the "snob factor" among some classical music buffs, concerning film score composing:
The classical intelligentsia once openly ridiculed film composing, using it as an instant metaphor for anything shallow or sentimental and scoffing at concert composers who wrote for the movies on the side. Stravinsky panned Rachmaninoff's symphonic works as "grandiose film music." Otto Klemperer, upon hearing that Korngold was writing for Hollywood, sneered that Korngold "had always composed for Warner Brothers, he just didn't realize it." Current critics tend to be more accepting of the field, but they practice a curious doublethink, one that is often unconscious. "Sounds like movie music" is still a common way to dismiss a new concert work, even among reviewers ostensibly friendly to the genre. ...
The stakes are high, for film music is uniquely situated to disseminate symphonic culture at the moment many commentators worry about that culture's impending collapse. In Williams's view, our multinational age presents an opportunity for classical music to reposition itself and for young composers to find an audience. "For better or worse, the audience for film music, even in an unconscious way, is multinational and enormous. If there is such a thing as global music, it's probably coming from film, where it's less attached to one particular vernacular. As a unified art form, a successful film, if it has a score that people will embrace, really can, in the atmosphere we live in today, reach across those boundaries. Film music can therefore be very important even to the history and development of the art form of music itself."
Sullivan makes important points, I think, about the significance of film scores. "Common sense should tell us that the divide between film music and classical is artificial, as silly as the schism between symphony and opera." Williams is among those composers who have kept symphonic music alive, the kind of music that features a "grand, Romantic, sweeping style..." That style was sure on display the first time I saw Williams conduct the New York Philharmonic, back in February 2004, and again in April 2005 (in an appearance at Lincoln Center that featured special guest violinist Itzhak Perlman), and yet again in May 2006.
I like the fact that Sullivan focuses on Williams's vast talent as both a composer and arranger ("he orchestrates his own scores, every note and instrument, down to the last string harmonic or harp glissando, working with pencil and paper"). Williams was deeply influenced by composers as varied as Haydn (his favorite), Stravinsky, Shostakovich, Prokofiev, and BartĂłk, as well as Ellington and Billy Strayhorn. The latter influence really shows, I think, in Williams's score for "Catch Me if You Can," pieces of which were performed brilliantly at the May 2006 Avery Fisher Hall concert I attended.
In any event, having argued for the musical integrity of film scores many times in the past (see here, for example), I really enjoyed this Williams interview, and, as I said the other day, I'm looking forward to reading Sullivan's book when I have the time.
There is a really good article in today's NY Times, a book review by Edward Rothstein entitled "Hitchcock, Thrilling the Ears as Well as the Eyes." In it, Rothstein reviews Jack Sullivan's new book, Hitchcock's Music (Yale University Press). Having chosen quite a few "Song of the Day" tracks from Hitchcock films, written by great composers such as Bernard Herrmann and Miklos Rozsa, I have always celebrated soundtracks not only for the role they play in cinematic integration, but also as works that transcend the medium. (My celebration of film score music resumes in mid-February, with my usual "Ben-Hur" citation, in anticipation of the Academy Awards broadcast on February 25th.) So the new book sounds very intriguing.
Rothstein writes:
Bernard Herrmann, for example, who created the scores for "Psycho," "North by Northwest" and some of Hitchcock's other masterpieces, said there were only "a handful of directors like Hitchcock who really know the score and fully realize the importance of its relationship to a film." But it was more than that. For Hitchcock music was not merely an accompaniment. It was a focus. And it didn't just reveal something about the characters who sang the score's songs or moved under its canopy of sound; music could seem to be a character itself. ... Music has as much a role to play in [Hitchcock's] films as any of the characters. It might charm them or be used by them. But it also can reveal more than they know, offering secrets or promising salvation. Hitchcock's music has such an independent life, it also seeps through filmâs strict boundaries: Something that seems to be a score turns out to be a radio playing off screen ("Rear Window"); music that starts as part of a film score is heard again in the humming of a hero (in "Foreign Correspondent"). "I have the feeling I am an orchestra conductor," Hitchcock once told Francois Truffaut. He also compared film to opera.
Hitchcock, without ever drawing a line between the popular and high arts, explored his chosen genre with a firm belief about the powers of music. Music can provide an archetype for Hitchcockian suspense. Music can hint at more than it says; it can unfold with both rigorous logic and heightened drama; and despite all expectations it can shock with its revelations.
Excellent observations; I look forward to picking up Sullivan's new book and reading it.
Also noted at the Rozsa Forum.
Song of the Day: Indigo Eyes features the music and lyrics of Peter Murphy and Paul Statham. My favorite rendition of this song is from Peter Murphy's live set, "aLive Just For Love" (audio clip at that link). This double album features an array of accoustic reconstructions of Peter's diverse body of work (and includes a guest appearance by Bauhaus bassist David J). I have highlighted Peter's "Subway" and "Just for Love" in previous "Song of the Day" entries, and I've enjoyed his artistic evolution from his Bauhaus days to his glorious solo projects. Thanks for introducing me to Peter's eclectic universe, sweetie. Happy birthday, with love.
Song of the Day: Let's Start the New Year Right is an Irving Berlin chestnut from the 1942 film, "Holiday Inn." Listen to audio clips of renditions by Bing Crosby and Mel Torme. As our annual tribute to the holiday season comes to an end, let me wish all of my readers a Happy, Healthy, and Successful 2007!
Song of the Day: What Are You Doing New Year's Eve? features the words and music of Frank Loesser. It has been recorded by artists such as Clay Aiken, Diana Krall, and Ella Fitzgerald (audio clips at those links). Whatever you're doing tonight, have a safe and Happy New Year's Eve!
Song of the Day: Swinging on a Star, music by Jimmy Van Heusen, lyrics by Johnny Burke, won the 1944 Oscar for Best Song, from the film "Going My Way." The film starred Academy Award winner Bing Crosby as Father O'Malley; he would repeat that role in the 1945 sequel, another seasonal favorite, "The Bells of St. Mary's, which co-starred Ingrid Bergman. Crosby also received a Best Actor nomination for the sequel. Not strictly a holiday song, it's still one that I associate with the holidays, having seen one or two seasonal plays that have used this song in reference to a certain star of Biblical proportions. Listen to audio clips of renditions by Bing Crosby, Frank Sinatra and pianist Oscar Peterson, guitarist Herb Ellis, and bassist Ray Brown.
Song of the Day: Count Your Blessings (Instead of Sheep), music and lyrics by Irving Berlin, was an Oscar-nominated song from the 1954 film "White Christmas." Cliche though it may be, this is something I do every day of my life ... count my blessings. Listen to an audio clip from the classic Rosemary Clooney rendition.
Song of the Day: Deck the Halls is another great Christmas standard. Listen to audio clips of Joan Sutherland and the Ambrosian Singers, Ottmar Liebert, and Nat King Cole.
Song of the Day: Sleigh Ride features the music of Leroy Anderson and the lyrics of Mitchell Parish. Listen to audio clips from various renditions: one of my favorite versions by the Ronettes, and also those by Karen Carpenter, Johnny Mathis, the Ventures, and Leroy Anderson himself.
Song of the Day: I Got You (I Feel Good), words and music by James Brown, reworks a Brown song entitled "I Found You" (audio clip at that link), recorded by Yvonne Fair. This track is my personal Brown favorite; it was a mega-hit and a signature tune for the "Godfather of Soul," who passed away yesterday, on Christmas Day 2006. Brown was one of the most important artists of the past forty years, influencing everything from R&B to hip hop, and everyone from the Rolling Stones and Public Enemy to Prince and Michael Jackson (and check out a rare You Tube clip featuring Brown, Jackson, and Prince). Listen to an audio clip of this classic track here.
Song of the Day: O Little Town of Bethlehem, words by Rector Phillips Brooks, music by church organist Lewis Redner, has been recorded many times. Listen to audio clips of Barbra Streisand, Ella Fitzgerald, Oscar Peterson, and Sister Rosetta Tharpe.
Song of the Day: Welcome Christmas, lyrics by Theodore Geisel, music by Albert Hague, is another great track from the Chuck Jones cartoon, "How the Grinch Stole Christmas." Listen to an audio clip from the animated version here. Merry Christmas!
Song of the Day: Santa Claus is Coming to Town, words and music by Haven Gillespie and J. Fred Coots, is a famous Christmas standard. It has been recorded by popular artists such as Bruce Springsteen, the Crystals, and the Jackson Five, and jazz artists such as Bill Evans, Ella Fitzgerald, and Diana Krall. And it's Christmas Eve... so you better be good, for goodness sake! Track Santa's global adventures here!
Song of the Day: We Wish You a Merry Christmas is a simple, but joyous traditional song of the season (audio clips at those links). And enjoy another audio clip of a rousing rendition by Kiri Te Kenawa with the BBC Philharmonic Orchestra.
Song of the Day: Little Drummer Boy features the words and music of Katherine K. Davis, Henry Onorati, and Harry Simeone. It is a staple of the Christmas season and can also be heard in a Rankin-Bass animated special. Listen to an audio clip from the most famous rendition by the Harry Simeone Chorale and to a duet featuring Bing Crosby and David Bowie (the duet clip never gets to the vocals, but there is also a clip of a Crosby solo version at that link).
Song of the Day: Ice, which features the lovely sounds of keyboardist Tamlyn, from the Sean Brennan-spearheaded group, London After Midnight, might seem like an "odd" choice for a holiday song list. How appropriate, then, that it is the final track of "Oddities," an album that begins with a track entitled "The Christmas Song" (audio clip here). And I really love it; listen to an audio clip of the song, officially Track 72 on the album (the very end of the song features a tip of the hat to "Jingle Bells"). And Happy Winter Solstice, which, coincidentally, arrives at 7:22 pm, Eastern Standard Time!
Song of the Day: Silver Bells, words and music by Jay Livingston and Ray Evans, was first heard in the 1951 film, "The Lemon Drop Kid," where it was performed by Bob Hope and Marilyn Maxwell. Listen to audio clips of renditions by Perry Como, Andy Williams, Stevie Wonder, and the rich, multi-part harmonies of Take 6.
Song of the Day: O Christmas Tree (O Tannenbaum) is a traditional Christmas carol of German origin. There are so many versions of this song and so many recorded renditions that it is almost impossible to pick a favorite. Listen to audio clips of Nat King Cole, Nancy Wilson, the Mormon Tabernacle Choir, and jazz pianist Oscar Peterson.
Justin Timberlake was featured on "Saturday Night Live" this past weekend, as both the host and the musical guest. I loved him when he first appeared on the show back in 2003, and he was just as terrific this time around.
One hilarious "digital short" was aired, with Justin and Andy Samberg. For those who enjoyed the "Lazy Sunday" clip last December, the new one, "Dick in a Box," will provide a few laughs. Check it out on YouTube.
Update: Jon posts the uncensored, unedited version, which also happens to feature audio and video that is more, uh, NSYNC. Watch it here.
Song of the Day: You're a Mean One, Mr. Grinch features the lyrics of Theodore Geisel (aka "Dr. Seuss") and the music of Albert Hague. On this date, forty years ago, the Ben Washam and Chuck Jones-directedanimated version of "How the Grinch Stole Christmas!" made its debut on CBS-TV. The cartoon (one of my favorites of all time) showcased the voice of the great Boris Karloff, and this song was sung by Thurl Ravenscroft. The song is also featured in the 2000 motion picture (audio clip at that link) and the 2006 Broadway production (audio clip at that link) of the classic Dr. Seuss story. Listen to an audio clip of the original version here.
Song of the Day: The Twelve Days of Christmas is one of those traditional songs of the season that has been recorded countless times (and the cost of all its enumerated items has gone up considerably since the eighteenth century). So join me, starting today, for my annual holiday music tribute; I won't settle for 12 days, however. We've got 16 songs coming your way over the next 2+ weeks. Let's begin with some holiday cheer from Perry Como, Bing Crosby and the Andrews Sisters, and Joan Sutherland and the Ambrosian Singers.
Song of the Day: Deja Vu (lyrics and video clip at that link) features the words and music of Rodney "Darkchild" Jerkins and Beyonce, a star in the new film version of "Dreamgirls," and the singer of this track, which appears on her album, "B'day." I like the original mix, but I love the Freemasons dance remix (audio clips at those links). Both versions feature a guest rap from Jay-Z.
Song of the Day: And I'm Telling You I'm Not Going, lyrics by Tom Eyen, music by Henry Krieger, is one of the dramatic highlights of the Broadway musical, "Dreamgirls," inspired by the story of the Motown super group, The Supremes. I never saw the original Michael Bennett production, but I was enthralled with the performance of this track, sung with Tony-winning gusto, by Jennifer Holliday. The movie version, with an all-star cast, opens for an exclusive engagement at the Ziegfeld Theater in Manhattan, before its nationwide debut on Christmas day. In the film musical, another "J.H." takes on this song and the role of "Effie." "American Idol" runner-up, Jennifer Hudson. Listen to audio clips of the powerhouse Jennifer Holliday version (and check out her televised performance at the 1982 Tony Awards, courtesy of You Tube) and the new Jennifer Hudson version as well (clips at those links).
Song of the Day: My Baby Just Cares for Me, music by Walter Donaldson, lyrics by Gus Kahn, is from the Broadway musical "Whoopee." This little jazzy nugget has been recorded by Tony Bennett and guitarist Chuck Wayne, Nina Simone, Nat King Cole, Natalie Cole, George Michael, and today's birthday boy, Frank Sinatra, who was born on this date in 1915 (audio clips at those links).
Song of the Day: Alright, Okay, You Win, words and music by Sid Wyche and Mayme Watts, is one of those jovial blues-based swing tracks that has been recorded by some fine jazz and pop vocalists, including Joe Williams with Count Basie, Ella Fitzgerald, Peggy Lee, and Bette Midler, on a tribute album to Lee (audio clips at those links).
Song of the Day: Shine features the words and music of James ("Jimmy Jam") Harris III and Terry Lewis, with a sample taken from the Chic hit, "My Forbidden Lover," by Bernard Edwards and Nile Rodgers. The song was recorded by Luther Vandross some years ago, but was not released until recently as part of "The Ultimate Luther Vandross: Special Collector's Edition" (audio clips at that link). While the original mix is good, nothing beats the Freemasons Mix on the Bonus Disc, which weds the Velvet Vandross Voice to a sexy dance beat (audio clip here). This production is Classic Luther. Hearing him in this setting reminds me that he wasn't just a balladeer; his voice jazzed up some of the greatest R&B dance tracks of the past quarter century. Shine on, Luther!
Song of the Day: Wanna Be Startin' Somethin', words and music by Michael Jackson, was the first track heard in the line-up on his best-selling album, "Thriller." This one combines a percolating rhythm, killer bass line, some social commentary, a line about "Billie Jean," and a few "Ma Ma Se, Ma Ma Sa, Ma Ma Coo Sa's" along the way. Listen to an audio clip here.
Song of the Day: New York, New York, music by Leonard Bernstein, lyrics by Betty Comden and Adolph Green, is a highlight from both the Broadway musical "On the Town" and its 1949 film version. A great song dedicated to my hometown, this one is selected today to honor the memory of Betty Comden, who passed away on Thanksgiving Day, 2006. Listen here to an audio clip from the original Broadway show.
Song of the Day: Them There Eyes, words and music by Maceo Pinkard, William Tracy, and Doris Tauber, is a song that has been recorded many times over since its debut in the 1930s. Today, however, I spotlight an audio clip here of a rendition sung by one of my all-time favorite jazz singers, Anita O'Day, who passed away yesterday at the age of 87.
Song of the Day: Killer Joe was composed and first recorded by jazz saxophonist Benny Golson. Listen to audio clips of that version here and here. My favorite version is the one recorded by Quincy Jones, featuring Hubert Laws and Freddie Hubbard. Listen to that cool audio clip and also clips of renditions by Toots Thielemans and Manhattan Transfer.
My brother, jazz guitarist Carl Barry, was playing this past weekend at the popular Village jazz spot, "Rare," on Bleecker Street in Manhattan. The bass player, Jay Leonhart, taped the gig, and posted a snippet at You Tube.
It is a total riot. The guys are busy performing in the club, near an open door, and this woman walks over and asks Carl, "Where Can I Catch a Taxi?" And she returns for further directions! And Carl doesn't miss a beat. Ah, the trials and tribulations of being a jazz musician in the city!
Watch it here (you may have to sign-in first).
Song of the Day: Symphony No. 4 in A Major (Op. 90, "Italian Symphony") is one of my favorite of Felix Mendelssohn's compositions. I especially enjoy listening to the rousing Fourth Movement. Listen to an audio clip recorded by the Berliner Philharmoniker.
Song of the Day: This Can't Be Love is another great Lorenz Hart-Richard Rodgers collaboration. It debuted on the Broadway stage in the 1938 show, "The Boys from Syracuse," and was also featured in the 1962 film, "Jumbo" (audio clip at that link). Listen to audio clips of renditions by Jack Cassidy and Holly Harris (from the 1953 studio cast album), Dinah Washington, Shirley Horn, Stephane Grappelli, Stan Getz and Gerry Mulligan, and a scatting Ella Fitzgerald.
Song of the Day: Dancing in Heaven (Orbital Be Bop), words and music by Martin Page and Brian Fairweather, was a Q-Feel techno hit. Listen to an audio clip here, just in time for All Souls' Day.
Song of the Day: Persephone (The Gathering of Flowers), words and music by Brendan Perry and Lisa Gerrard, is a Dead Can Dance track, which is deeply moving (in fact, the first time I heard this track I was moved to tears). The recording features a dramatic layering of melodic strings, woodwinds, and brass (violins, viola, cellos, trombones, tuba, and oboe), percussion (timpani and military snare), and choral harmonies. On this Day of the Dead (All Saints Day too!), listen to an audio clip from the album, "Within the Realm of the Dying Sun."
Song of the Day: Danse Macabre (Opus 40), composed by Camille Saint-Saens, is one of those Halloween staples. Listen to an audio clip featuring the London Philharmonia Orchestra, another featuring Eugene Ormandy conducting the Philadelphia Orchestra, and also a performance by pianist Vladimir Horowitz. Happy Halloween!
Song of the Day: Bewitched, Bothered, and Bewildered, a great Rodgers and Hart tune from "Pal Joey," kicks off our mini-tribute in honor of Halloween week (okay, so the song has nothing to do with witches and goblins, even if it has "bewitched" in the title... but I love it!). Listen to audio clips of renditions recorded by Doris Day, Ella Fitzgerald, Linda Ronstadt, Benny Goodman (with Helen Forrest), Rod Stewart and Cher, Barbra Streisand, and Oscar Peterson and Stan Getz.
Song of the Day: Just for Love, words and music by Peter Murphy (see "Subway") features the scintillating violin work of Hugh Marsh and the rhythmic pulse of tabla player Shankar. This superb track, with its Middle Eastern influences, is an innovative highlight of Peter's 'luminescent' album, "Dust" (audio clip at that link).
Song of the Day: Night in Tunisia, written by birthday boy Dizzy Gillespie, has been recorded by many jazz artists, including Sonny Rollins, Art Blakey, Manhattan Transfer, and, of course, Dizzy and Bird.
Song of the Day: Pradizer Adeus (To Say Goodbye), words and music by Edu Lobo, Torquato Neto, and Lani Hall, is a sensitive bossa nova, which has been recorded by Brasil 66 and the incomparable Sarah Vaughan (audio clips at those links).
Song of the Day: Give Me the Simple Life, words and music by Harry Ruby and Rube Bloom, was first heard in the 1946 film, "Wake Up and Dream." Listen to audio clips from renditions by Ella Fitzgerald, Julie London, Tony Bennett, Rosemary Clooney, and Mel Torme and George Shearing.
Song of the Day: It's Only a Paper Moon, music by Harold Arlen, lyrics by E.Y. (Yip) Harburg and Billy Rose, is a song that owes its origins to the theater. It has also been heard in a few films, including "Take a Chance" (1933), "Paper Moon" (1973), and "Funny Lady" (1975). While you're celebrating the arrival of the Full Harvest Moon later this week, listen to audio clips of this song recorded by Ella Fitzgerald, Nat King Cole, and actor James Caan (from "Funny Lady").
Song of the Day: (The World of) Confirmation, music by Charlie Parker, lyrics by Eddie Jefferson, has been recorded by many instrumentalists and vocalists. Listen to a sampling of audio clips from Charlie Parker, Gene Ammons, Manhattan Transfer, and Sheila Jordan.
Song of the Day: Sexyback, words and music by Timothy "Timbaland" Mosley, Nate Hills, and Justin Timberlake, who, with Timbaland, took this song to #1 on the Billboard Hot 100. From the album "Futuresex/Love Sounds," the hot track merges elements of electronica, dance, R&B, and hip hop. Listen to an audio clip here. Take 'em to the bridge! Take 'em to the chorus!
Song of the Day: Raindrops, written and produced by Dave Valler, Molly Smithen-Downes, Ralf Kappmeier, Sascha Lappessen, and Thomas Alisson, is a hot dance track recorded by Stunt. Listen here to a full-length audio clip.
Song of the Day: Easy Living, words and music by Leo Robin and Ralph Rainger, has been recorded by countless artists. Especially memorable, for me, are versions by Billie Holiday, Sarah Vaughan, Ella Fitzgerald and Joe Pass, and Carmen McRae, with Joe Pass on guitar in a medley (audio clips at links).
Song of the Day: The Moment of Truth, words and music by Collen G. "Tex" Satterwhite and Frank Scott, was recorded in a hot, swinging arrangement by the great Tony Bennett (audio clip at that link). Today marks the release of Bennett's new album, in tribute to his 80th birthday: "Duets: An American Classic."
Song of the Day: Gente, music and lyrics by R. Gilbert, M. Valle, P. Valle, is another memorable track from the Brasil 66 album "Equinox" (audio clip at that link).
Song of the Day: C'mon Marianne, words and music by L. Russell Brown and Raymond Bloodworth, is my all-time favorite Four Seasons hit. It's got a rock and roll pulse, which exhibits the group's integrated R&B and doo-wop influences. As our Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons tribute concludes, listen to an audio clip of this pop smash here.
Song of the Day: Beggin' features the words and music of Bob Gaudio and Peggy Farina. Listen here to an audio clip of the original and also to a "Jersey Boys" soundtrack rendition. And as the summer season melts into fall, a Happy Autumnal Equinox to one and all (the season officially arrived a little after midnight EDT).
Song of the Day: Can't Take My Eyes Off You, words and music by Bob Crewe and Bob Gaudio, was a huge Frankie Valli hit. The song has shown up in many films as well, including "The Deer Hunter" (1978). Listen to an audio clip here, and also to alternative versions by Gloria Gaynor and Lauryn Hill.
Song of the Day: My Eyes Adored You, words and music by Bob Crewe and Kenny Nolan, was a #1 hit for Frankie Valli. Listen to an audio clip here, and a happy anniversary to my brother Carl and sister-in-law Joanne.
Song of the Day: Swearin' to God, words and music by Bob Crewe and Denny Randell, was a Top Ten hit for Frankie Valli; when it was released, I especially enjoyed the extended remix. Listen to an audio clip here.
Song of the Day: Who Loves You, words and music by Bob Gaudio and Judy Parker, gave the Four Seasons a dash of disco. I love the musical break-down heard at the mid-point. Listen to an audio clip here.
Song of the Day: Let's Hang On (To What We've Got), words and music by Bob Crewe, Sandy Linzer and Denny Randell, is another fine Four Seasons hit (audio clip at that link).
Song of the Day: Opus 17 (Don't You Worry 'Bout Me), words and music by Sandy Linzer and Denny Randell, was a pop and R&B smash for the Four Seasons. Listen here to an audio clip of 17 on the 17th!
Song of the Day: Working My Way Back to You, words and music by Sandy Linzer and Denny Randell, was another big Four Seasons hit. Listen to audio clips of The Four Seasons rendition, and another one by The Spinners.
Song of the Day: Sherry, words and music by Bob Gaudio, was recorded by The Four Seasons and became a #1 Hit on this date in 1962 (it was a #1 R&B hit too). And so begins our 10-day tribute to Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons, which, of course, will also coincide with a change from one season to another. Listen here to an audio clip of this nostalgic hit. Having seen the Tony-winning Best Musical of 2006, "Jersey Boys," I can say that the moments leading up to the performance of this song in that production, and the performance itself, moved me to tears. It's a wonderful pop song in a wonderfully entertaining and poignant musical.
Song of the Day: Back Together Again, words and music by James Mtume and Reggie Lucas, is a classic soulful duet of Roberta Flack and Donny Hathaway (audio clip at that link). I also adore a "sentimental reunion" remix by Steve Anderson, produced for the June 1990 Disco Mix Club.
Song of the Day: Bitches Crystal, words and music by Keith Emerson and Greg Lake, is another classic high energy prog rock track from the Emerson, Lake and Palmer album, "Tarkus." Listen to an audio clip of the original cut here, and also, from an ELP tribute album here.
Song of the Day: Tarkus is a classic progressive rock composition by Keith Emerson and Greg Lake, featuring several movements ("Eruption," "Stones of Years," "Iconoclast," "Mass," "Manticore," "Battlefield," and "Aquatarkus"). Listen to an audio clip from this energetic, jazz-inflected opus by Emerson, Lake and Palmer.
Song of the Day: Triste, words and music by Antonio Carlos Jobim, is translated as "Sad" (one of my emotions on this day), but there is nothing sad about these lovely, lively audio clips featuring Jobim, Sinatra & Jobim and Brasil 66.
Song of the Day: I Didn't Know What Time it Was, music by Richard Rodgers, lyrics by Lorenz Hart, was heard in the 1957 film, "Pal Joey" (yes, another one from that production). The song was actually not heard in the original 1940 Broadway production of "Pal Joey"; it debuted in the 1939 Broadway show, "Too Many Girls." Among the many versions recorded, listen to audio clips of renditions by Tony Bennett, Peggy Lee, Anita O'Day, Gogi Grant, Betty Carter, and Bobby Darin.
Song of the Day: I Could Write a Book is a Rodgers and Hart gem from "Pal Joey." Check out audio clips of versions by Tony Bennett with Count Basie, Dinah Washington, and Ella Fitzgerald.
Song of the Day: Smooth Criminal, words and music by Michael Jackson, was a featured selection on his album, "Bad." The video was cool too. As a DJ back in the '80s, I used to create my own dance-floor packin' house remix of this song by interlacing the "a capella mix" with the Inner City hit, "Big Fun." Listen to an audio clip of the original recording here.
Song of the Day: Big Fun, words and music by Kevin Saunderson, Paris Gray, Arthur Forest and James Pennington, was recorded by the group Inner City. Listen to an audio clip of this classic house track here.
Song of the Day: Neither One of Us (Wants to Be the First to Say Goodbye), words and music by Jim Weatherly, won a 1974 Grammy Award for Gladys Knight and the Pips for "Best Pop Vocal Performance by a Duo, Group or Chorus." Listen to an audio clip of this wonderful pop hit here.
Song of the Day: The Wings of My Heart (lyrics can be found in the transcript of a linked 2003 episode of "Another World") features the words and music of the late Keith Diamond and James Ingram. Appearing on Ingram's album "Never Felt So Good," it is a passionate, melodic, lush ballad that has also been recorded by my sister-in-law, Joanne Barry (no audio clips online). Happy Birthday, Joanne!
Song of the Day: Uptight features the words and music of Sylvia Moy, Henry Cosby, and Stevie Wonder, for whom it was was a big hit. Listen to audio clips of Stevie's version and Nancy Wilson (my favorite version).
Song of the Day: Para Machuchar Meu Coracao (To Hurt My Heart), words and music by Ary Evangelista Barroso, is featured on the fabulous Getz/Gilberto album (audio clip at that link).
Song of the Day: I Heard it Through the Grapevine, words and music by Norman Whitfield and Barrett Strong, was a mega-hit for two different Motown artists: Gladys Knight and the Pips and Marvin Gaye (audio clips at those links). The song was one of my sister's favorites (and one of mine too) back in the 1960s, and it's her birthday today! Happy birthday, sister! Meanwhile, check out alternative versions by Creedance Clearwater Revival, The Temptations, and, of course, The California Raisins.
Today marks the two-year anniversary of the inauguration of my "Song of the Day" feature.
I was reminded of this the other night when I was watching the "58th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards," which, during the broadcast, showed a romantic commercial for "Journey Diamond Jewelry," telling us that "a diamond is forever." The song used for that commercial? "What Are You Doing the Rest of Your Life?," which just so happens to have been my very first "Song of the Day." In truth, I thought it was a lovely commercial; but then again, it is a lovely song. Like the diamond, it will last forever, at least "forever" in my own consciousness. Indeed, though it would be very difficult for me to pick my favorite song of all time, that Legrand-Bergman tune would certainly qualify.
Two years ago today, I wrote:
Today, I thought I'd share with my readers a new feature for "Not a Blog" and a new page on my site. I have been promising readers to inaugurate additional "My Favorite Things" pages, pointing to such things as favorite books, favorite albums, and even favorite songs. Why my personal aesthetic views are so interesting is beyond me... but the Favorite Things page is consistently one of the most popular pages on my "Dialectics and Liberty" website. Perhaps it is due to the fact that I provide lots of entertaining links on such pages for your enjoyment.
So, I'm starting a new page today: My Favorite Songs. Rather than come up with a full list on a single day, I'll make it a regular (daily?) feature here at "Not a Blog." (The songs will also be added to the "Favorite Songs" list, alphabetically, with date of addition in [brackets].)
There isn't a waking hour of any day where I don't have a song on my mind. (I suspect there are quite a few songs playing in my mind during non-waking hours as well!) Music is such an integral part of my life, that I could not for a moment imagine life without it. And the songs I love come from a variety of genres, as readers will soon find out.
I can only echo those observations today. And while the "Song of the Day" hasn't actually been posted daily for two straight years (there have been more than a few interruptions), I'm happy that it remains a popular feature at Notablog. And I'm even happier that it has evolved to include both vocal and instrumental compositions. Obviously, my use of the word "song" is, uh, rather loose. But that's been part of the fun... running the gamut from cartoons to the concert hall.
Thanks again to Notablog readers for all your recent public comments on the songs, and thanks also to the hundreds of people who have emailed me their own private comments over the last two years. I've heard from music fans and even from some of the artists and composers whom I've highlghted. It's been a great run, and I look forward to continuing the feature in the future, though it will become less frequent sometime this fall, as my work schedule intensifies.
Comments welcome.
Song of the Day: Jonny Quest, composed by William Hanna and Joseph Barbera, is another one of those rousing jazzy cartoon themes. Listen here to an audio clip. And so ends the Second Annual TV Theme tribute.
Song of the Day: Courageous Cat and Minute Mouse has no credited composer (the copyright is held by Tele Features, Inc.). Listen to an audio clip of this jazzy cartoon theme, from one of my favorite childhood cartoons, here.
Song of the Day: The Tonight Show, composed by Paul Anka and John William "Johnny" Carson, was heard nightly on Carson's show and performed with gusto from 1962, first by the Skitch Henderson Band, and then, from 1967, by the Doc Severinson Band. Listen to an audio clip of this theme that is truly among "Television's Greatest Hits."
There's not much that I can say about the one-year anniversary of Katrina that hasn't already been said. I do find it ironic, however, that some NYC politicians have been up in arms over recent comments by New Orleans Mayor Ray Nagin, who tried to defend his own sorry political record by taking a swipe at the fact that, five years later, there's still a "hole in the ground" at Ground Zero. Well, it is true that infrastructure is being laid at that hole in the ground, but let's face it: The WTC's Ground Zero has become a textbook illustration of internecine interest-group warfare, leading to interminable delays in construction... indeed, even in the planning for construction!
All this said, let us put aside the politics for a day, and remember New Orleans and its culture, which has had a past, and which will have a future.
This brings to mind a new CD that I'm listening to, put out by the Side Street Strutters, entitled "Back to Bourbon Street." From the poignant sounds of "Do You Know What it Means to Miss New Orleans?" to the swinging tempos of "There'll Be Some Changes Made," "King Porter Stomp," and "Royal Garden Blues," this is a wonderful album.
And, heck, it also features the terrific trombone work of one of my favorite trombone players in the whole wide world, my pal, Roger Bissell!
As Andy Waterman writes in the liner notes, "Back to Bourbon Street seems to be an appropriate place to musically congregate in this post-Katrina universe." The album reminds us of the vivacious, life-affirming culture that is New Orleans.
Comments welcome.
Song of the Day: Spider-Man (audio clip at that link), composed by F. Harris, S. Phillips, and D. Kapross, was one of my favorite themes, comics, and cartoons when I was a kid. I really love the jazzy Michael Buble version too, which was heard over the closing credits of the hit 2004 film, "Spider-Man 2." But the only version I can find on the web is an audio clip of a hot Ralphi Rosario "Black Widow" Unreleased Mix.
Song of the Day: Night Gallery had several themes, including the series theme composed by Gil Melle (listen to an audio clip here). Another theme was composed by the great Eddie Sauter (audio clip here). My favorite theme from this Rod Serling show, however, is the one featured in the superb made-for-TV movie that served as the basis for the series. That main title was composed by Billy Goldenberg. Listen to an audio clip of that theme here.
Song of the Day: The Odd Couple, music by Neal Hefti, lyrics by Sammy Cahn, made its debut in the 1968 film version of this Neil Simon play, but was adapted for the small screen as well. Listen to an audio clip of this famous theme here, along with other sound clips here, and, tonight, tune into the 58th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards.
Song of the Day: Bewitched (various versions of the memorable theme archived at that link) was composed by Howard Greenfield and Jack Keller, for one of TV's classic comedies.
There were few sounds that could go higher (or, rather, that could be heard by humans) than the soaring notes played by Maynard Ferguson in one of his classic trumpet solos. And the Ferguson Big Band, exploring jazz and fusion, could easily act as a demolition crew, anytime it exhibited its characteristic vigor (I reference two Ferguson recordings here and here).
I learned early this morning that Maynard Ferguson passed away on Wednesday, August 23, 2006 at the age of 78.
Comments welcome.
Song of the Day: Peter Gunn (audio clip at that link), composed by Henry Mancini, is one of those instantly recognizable television themes. Check out an audio clip of a rendition of this track featuring saxophonist Tom Scott. This begins our Annual Tribute to Favorite TV Themes, which coincides with the soon-to-be-broadcast 58th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards, and the kick-off of the Fall 2006 TV season.
Song of the Day: I've Got Your Number features the music of Cy Coleman and the lyrics of Carolyn Leigh, from the Broadway show "Little Me." Listen here to an audio clip of Tony Bennett singing this swinging standard. We began our Tony Tribute, and we end it, with a selection from his album, "I Wanna Be Around," which remains my favorite Bennett album of all time.
Song of the Day: Until I Met You (aka "Corner Pocket"), music by rhythm guitarist Freddie Green, lyrics by Don Wolf, is presented in an understated, swinging arrangement by Tony Bennett (audio clip at that link). Also, listen here to an audio clip of a Manhattan Transfer rendition (which earned the group a Grammy for "Best Performance by a Duo or Group") and here to a clip of a Duke Ellington big band rendition.
Song of the Day: We'll Be Together Again, words and music by Carl Fischer and singer Frankie Laine, was recorded by Tony Bennett and the great jazz pianist Bill Evans (audio clip at that link). This classic standard has also been recorded by Frankie Laine, Lena Horne, Gene Ammons and Sonny Stitt, Cannonball Adderley (that's Nat Adderley on trumpet), Sammy Davis Jr. (with guitarist Laurindo Almeida), Stan Getz and Chet Baker, Stephane Grappelli, Marian McPartland (with Bruce Hornsby), the Four Freshmen, and the Stan Kenton Orchestra (audio clips at those links).
Song of the Day: Street of Dreams, words and music by Sam Lewis and Victor Young, was recorded by Tony Bennett, with his long-time piano accompanist, Ralph Sharon. Listen to an audio clip of their collaboration here. Listen to additional audio clips from several other renditions of this American standard by Lee Wiley, Cannonball Adderley, Chet Baker, the Ink Spots, and Sarah Vaughan.
Song of the Day: You Don't Know What Love Is, words and music by Dan Raye and Gene De Paul, has been recorded in a sensitive rendition by Tony Bennett and the incomparable jazz pianist, Bill Evans (who would have been 77 on August 16, 2006). Listen to an audio clip here. The two of them recorded a couple of fine albums together. I also love versions of this song by George Benson and my sister-in-law Joanne Barry (no audio clips at those links), as well as Dinah Washington and Cassandra Wilson (audio clips at those links).
As readers of my website are aware, I have been a long-time fan of film noir, film music, and jazz (check out "My Favorite Things"). And it's no coincidence that so many film noir soundtracks draw from jazz and jazz-inspired music, which lends itself to the genre's themes of seduction, melancholy, and menace.
All the more reason for me to recommend highly a wonderful CD featuring guitarist Bob Sneider and vibraphonist Joe Locke, not to mention the tasteful improvisations of trumpeter John Sneider, tenor saxman Grant Stewart, pianist Paul Hoffman, bassist Phil Flanigan, and drummer Mike Melito. The CD is called "Fallen Angel," a by-product of the Bob Sneider and Joe Locke Film Noir Project. (I couldn't find any sample audio clips on the web, but you can order it from Amazon.com and CD Universe, among other online retailers.)
The track that hooked me into purchasing the CD was the group's rendition of "Chinatown," the theme by the great Jerry Goldsmith. I am a huge fan of both the film and the soundtrack (the love theme among my favorites). I heard it on WBGO-FM, and wasted no time in picking up the whole album. That track is still my favorite on the CD, but fans of noir will have a field day checking out the many interpretations of other classic themes.
I have a backlog of music to listen to, and hope to post many more recommendations in the coming weeks.
Comments welcome.
Song of the Day: Who Can I Turn To (When Nobody Needs Me)?, words and music by Leslie Bricusse and Anthony Newley, is from the Broadway musical, "The Roar of the Greasepaint, The Smell of the Crowd." The song has been recorded by many fine artists, including our featured singer, Tony Bennett (audio clip at that link). Check out additional audio links to versions by Anthony Newley, Dionne Warwick, and Sammy Davis, Jr.
Song of the Day: If You Were Mine, music by Matty Malneck, lyrics by Johnny Mercer, is one of my favorite popular standards and one of my favorite Tony Bennett recordings of all time. Listen to an audio clip here.
I really enjoyed the second season of "So You Think You Can Dance," and certainly agree that the winner, Benji Schwimmer, was a terrific performer. I confess that I was a bit disappointed that my own favorite, Travis Wall, who was more the "artist" in his contemporary dance interpretations, came in second. But the tour should be fun.
The show featured an array of choreographed routines, in solo, duet, and group settings, which encompassed everything from hip hop and jazz to mambo and swing. There were many highlights, including a dance coupling of Benji and Travis, who were, ironically, the last two standing!
Anyway, I enjoyed last year's installment of the show, and thought that this was another very fine season of summer entertainment, provided by the people who bring us "American Idol." That show begins again in January 2007; they just held auditions in East Rutherford, New Jersey, where thousands of potential contestants lined up in the heat.
Comments welcome.
Song of the Day: Darn That Dream features the words and music of Eddie De Lange and Jimmy Van Heusen. Some lovely versions of this song have been recorded; listen to audio clips from Benny Goodman & Mildred Bailey, Doris Day, and Kenny Hagood with Miles Davis (from the classic album, "Birth of the Cool"). But one of the sweetest versions was recorded by Tony Bennett on a very early album, his first for Columbia, "Cloud 7" (audio clip at that link). The great Chuck Wayne is the featured guitarist on the album. Chuck, who was a mentor of sorts to my brother Carl (who learned the "consecutive picking" technique from Chuck) was such a well-known jazz guitarist back then that on his last European tour with Tony, many jazz enthusiasts seemed to greet him with even greater fervor than Bennett!
Song of the Day: It Was Me (C'Etait Moi) features the words and music of Maurice Vidalin, Gilbert Becaud, and Norman Gimbel. Listen to Tony Bennett sing his heart out.
Song of the Day: I Left My Heart in San Francisco, words by Douglass Cross, music by George Cory, is a Tony Bennett song. Listen here to an audio clip of this classic Grammy-winning signature tune.
Song of the Day: Put on a Happy Face, music by Charles Strouse, lyrics by Lee Adams, is from the 1960 Broadway hit "Bye Bye Birdie," which was later made into a film musical. From childhood, I adored Tony Bennett's version of this delightful track (audio clip at that link).
Song of the Day: The Good Life, words by Jack Reardon, music by Sascha Distel, was featured on the soundtrack to the 1962 film, "The Seven Deadly Sins." The song was a hit for Tony Bennett, who celebrates his 80th birthday this month. Listen to an audio clip here from the fabulous album "I Wanna Be Around." And join us for the next Twelve Days of Tony!
Song of the Day: Good Life, words and music by Kevin Saunderson, Paris Gray, and R. Holman, was a huge club hit for the group Inner City. Listen to an audio clip of this hot dance recording here.
After a month on summer hiatus, Notablog returns.
I have no clue what shape the blog will take at this point. While I am truly inspired by those who have the time to blog daily, and to blog with substance on such a regular basis, I have found that due to my own very personal circumstances and to my own professional commitments and responsibilities, it is virtually impossible to keep up with regular blogging or to post daily on the significant developments in the world today. Suffice it to say, while Notablog returns, and while I will resume my "Song of the Day" feature this weekend (and don't be surprised if this becomes a "Song of the Week" feature in time), I am still working diligently on many projects that demand my attention.
I should note that the Summer of 2006, which is a little more than half over, has been a productive one thus far. Aside from enjoying the sun and the sea and the lighting of the Coney Island Parachute Jump (Brooklyn's Eiffel Tower), I've been hard at work. I've completed three entries for the International Encyclopedia of Political Science and another entry for the International Encyclopedia of the Social Sciences (more information on these entries will follow in the coming months). In addition to continuing my editing of The Journal of Ayn Rand Studies, I've also completed a piece for the forthcoming Ed Younkins-edited anthology, Ayn Rand's Atlas Shrugged, which will be published next year to mark the 50th anniversary of the novel's publication. My contribution is entitled: "Atlas Shrugged: Manifesto for a New Radicalism."
On the subject of Ayn Rand, I have written a brief essay for the September 2006 issue of Liberty magazine. It's part of a special feature entitled "Ten Great Books of Liberty." My entry focuses on Rand's novel, The Fountainhead.
While I've been on hiatus, it came to my attention that I was memed by Nick Manley. The meme has considerable overlap with a blog entry I wrote on those works that had a significant effect on my intellectual development.
Much of that development has been influenced by dialectics, the art of context-keeping. But dialectics has taken various forms tnroughout intellectual history, and the Marxian dialectic is, of course, one of them. A new film, entitled "Half Nelson," apparently delves into the subject. I may not see the movie until it reaches DVD status, but it looks like it might be entertaining.
Marxian dialectics has interested me for many years, going back to my dissertation and to the publication of my first book, Marx, Hayek, and Utopia. Author Kevin M. Brien has published a second edition of his fine work, Marx, Reason, and the Art of Freedom, which addresses criticisms I made of his first edition back in the Fall 1988 issue of Critical Review. I hope to discuss Brien's rejoinder in the coming weeks.
In the next few weeks, I will also publish an exclusive Notablog installment of my annual feature, "Remembering the World Trade Center." This year's installment is particularly important; it comes on the fifth anniversary of that awful tragedy and it marks the first time that I will take readers inside the WTC. My interview subject was on the 89th floor of the North Tower when the first plane struck. That he survived to tell this harrowing story is a blessing to those of us who will never forget September 11, 2001. This was the most difficult interview I have ever conducted, but I trust that readers will agree with me that it is among the most important contributions to my annual series.
So stay tuned to Notablog. The music starts up again this weekend, and will include a 12-day tribute to Tony Bennett (who turned 80 on August 3rd), the return of my annual tribute to TV themes, and a September spotlight on The Four Seasons (loved "Jersey Boys").
Comments are open. Welcome back.
Song of the Day: Lover Come Back to Me features the music of Sigmund Romberg and the lyrics of birthday boy Oscar Hammerstein II. Originally from the 1928 Broadway musical, "The New Moon," the song has been recorded by many artists. Listen to audio clips from renditions by a young Barbra Streisand, Billie Holiday (here too), a swingin' Bobby Darin, and a blazin' Dinah Washington. Speaking of "coming back," I'll "come back" to you when Notablog returns from summer hiatus. No new entries or new comments will be posted till then. So ... keep the music playing ...
Song of the Day: Be Without You features the words and music of Johnta Austin, Brian Michael Cox, Jason Perry, and its singer: Mary J. Blige. While the original mix is classic Blige, nothing compares to the scalding Moto Blanco dance remix (audio clips at those links). "Put Your Hands Up!"
Song of the Day: SOS (Rescue Me) features the words and music of Jonathan Rotem, E. Kidd Bogart, and Ed Cobb, whose "Tainted Love" is generously sampled. Listen to an audio clip of this huge dance-pop hit for Rihanna.
Song of the Day: Tainted Love (full-length Soft Cell audio clip at that link), words and music by Ed Cobb, has been recorded by many artists. Gloria Jones first recorded it in the 1960s, and even Marilyn Manson recorded it (audio clip at that link), but no version was a bigger hit than the one by Soft Cell (which paired the song with The Supremes' "Where Did Our Love Go?").
Song of the Day: Thou Swell, lyrics by Lorenz Hart, music by Richard Rodgers, is a classic song, first heard in the 1927 Broadway musical, "A Connecticut Yankee." It was also heard in the 1943 revival (audio clip from that production here). The song has been recorded by many musicians and singers through the years, including Fats Waller, an early Bill Evans with Don Elliott, Joe Williams, Sarah Vaughan, Betty Carter and Ray Bryant, Tony Bennett, The Supremes, and Nat King Cole and Natalie Cole, each with a swingin' big band.
Song of the Day: Laia LaDaia (Reza), words and music by Norman Gimbel, Edu Lobo, and Ruy Guerra, is a Brazilian sparkler, which has been recorded by several artists, including Marvin Gaye in a live rendition at the Copa. Listen to audio clips of renditions by Vikki Carr, Brasil 66, and Nancy Ames.
Song of the Day: Polovetsian Dance No. 2, composed by Alexander Borodin, is a selection from the opera "Prince Igor." It is perhaps best known in popular circles as the theme of "Stranger in Paradise," with words and music by Robert Wright and George Forrest (adapted for the Broadway musical, "Kismet"). Listen to the original composition performed by the Philadelphia Orchestra with Eugene Ormandy conducting, and to the popular vocal renditions by Tony Bennett, the Four Aces, and Tony Martin.
Song of the Day: Subway features the music and lyrics (with a bow to Petula Clark) of Paul Statham and Peter Murphy, who greatly influenced so-called "Goth Rock." Murphy moved from Bauhaus to a complex solo career; he has recorded this song several times. My favorite version is a live rendition, captured on the album "Alive Just for Love" (audio clip at that link), which includes a soaring electric violin solo by Hugh Marsh. Happy Anniversary, Sweetie.
Song of the Day: Stars and Stripes Forever (audio clips at that link), composed by the "March King," John Philip Sousa, is one of those rousing compositions that one hears on Independence Day. I can't think of this day without fireworks and this American staple. Have a safe and happy holiday!
Song of the Day: Tristeza (Goodbye Sadness) features the words and music of Haroldo Lobo and Niltinho, with English lyrics by Norman Gimbel. I love a version by Brasil 66 (who else?), from their album "Look Around" (audio clip at that link).
Song of the Day: Hooked on You, words and music by Joseph Malloy and David Sanchez, was recorded by Sweet Sensation. Back in 1986, I packed the dance floors with a custom remix that I did of this song, using its "Diamond Dub" version. Listen to an audio clip of the original mix here.
Song of the Day: Let's Face the Music and Dance is a classic Irving Berlin song that has been recorded by many artists. Listen to audio clips of a finger-poppin' version by Tony Bennett and a Brazilian-influenced take by Diana Krall.
Song of the Day: The Frog, words and music by Joao Donato, is a highlight from "Look Around," a Sergio Mendes-Brasil 66 album. Listen to an audio clip of that version here, and to a recent "Timeless" version as well (featuring Q-Tip).
Song of the Day: All Night Passion, words and music by Rick Tarbox, was a hot mid-80s dance hit recorded by Alisha. Listen to audio clips of the original version and the extended dance remix here.
Song of the Day: Climb Ev'ry Mountain features the words of Oscar Hammerstein II and the music of today's birthday boy, Richard Rodgers. It is a highlight from one of my favorite all-time musicals, "The Sound of Music," sung in the 1965 film version by the character Mother Abbess, played by Peggy Wood. Listen to audio clips of this uplifting song from the 1965 soundtrack album, as well as from the original 1959 Broadway production, the 1961 London production, the 1987 studio cast album, and the 1998 Broadway revival.
Song of the Day: Just in Time, words and music by Betty Comden, Adolph Green, and Jule Styne, has been performed by many artists through the years (and it has been spoofed too). Listen especially to audio clips of renditions by Tony Bennett, Nina Simone, and Judy Garland, whose funeral was held at the Campbell Funeral Home in New York City on this day in 1969. It was the same day that many gays, in mourning over the passing of this cultural icon, took to the streets in response to a routine police raid on the Stonewall Inn in Greenwich Village. And so was born the Gay Liberation Movement.
Song of the Day: Making Love, music by Burt Bacharach, lyrics by Carole Bayer Sager, was the title song to the 1982 film about the love that dare not speak its name. Listen to an audio clip of the original, sensitive, understated rendition by Roberta Flack.
Song of the Day: It's Raining Men, words and music by Paul Jabara and Paul Shaffer, was performed with Diva gusto by those "two tons o' fun": The Weather Girls. Martha Wash and Izora Rhodes Armstead tore up the dance floors with this one. The song was re-recorded by Geri Halliwell for the soundtrack of the 2001 film, "Bridget Jones's Diary" (audio clip at that link). But nothing compares to the original (audio clip at that link). Just the right song for a Gay-Day Parade in NYC, even it has been raining (literally) on and off for days.
Song of the Day: One More Night features the words and music of K. Kama, Frank Berman, Christian Berman, and Marie Claire Cremers, who recorded this hypnotic club hit, and who goes by the name of Amber. Listen to audio clips of different remixes here (very few of which even get to the vocals!).
Song of the Day: Sunshine of Your Love, words and music by Eric Clapton, Jack Bruce, and Peter Brown, was a huge hit for Cream. Listen here to an audio clip of this steamy track with its classic rock guitar riff. And for a change of pace, check out an audio clip of a rendition by Ella Fitzgerald!
Song of the Day: Once Upon a Summertime (La Valse Des Lilas) features the music of Michel Legrand and E. Barclay, the French lyrics of Eddie Marnay, and the English lyrics of Johnny Mercer. Listen to audio clips of sensitive renditions by Tony Bennett, Barbra Streisand, Blossom Dearie, trumpeters Chet Baker and Miles Davis (with Gil Evans), and one of its composers, on piano: Michel Legrand.
Song of the Day: So Nice (Summer Samba) features the music of Marcos Valle and the lyrics of Paulo Sergio Valle (audio clip of the original Portuguese lyrics at that link) and Norman Gimbel (writer of the English lyrics). So nice to hear this on the day of the Summer Solstice, which arrives this morning. Listen to audio clips of this lovely tune by Nancy Ames and a famous organ rendering by Walter Wanderley.
Song of the Day: So Many Tears, words and music by Z. Mark and O. Oestricher, originally appeared on Regina Belle's album "All By Myself" (audio clip at that link). Listen also to an alternative audio clip of this R&B track here, featuring a jazzy saxophone in its opening bars.
Song of the Day: So Many Stars, words and music by Sergio Mendes and Alan and Marilyn Bergman, is a lovely ballad featured on the Brasil 66 album, "Look Around" (audio clip at that link).
Song of the Day: Song for My Father, written and performed by hard-bop pianist Horace Silver, is perfectly appropriate for all the fathers out there, to whom I wish a Happy Father's Day. And listen here to an audio clip of this ever-quotable track (hope you enjoy this one, Peri!).
Song of the Day: Got To Get You Into My Life, words and music by John Lennon and Paul McCartney, was a hit for the Beatles, from their album, "Revolver." Tomorrow, Paul McCartney turns 64. Yes, Sir Paul: We still need you! Like so many of the Lennon-McCartney songs, this one has been covered by many other artists (including my sister-in-law). Listen to audio clips of a hit rendition by Earth, Wind, and Fire and another by Ella Fitzgerald.
Song of the Day: Kissing a Fool features the words and music of George Michael, who first recorded the song in 1987. It has a retro jazzy feel that has been captured as well by Michael Buble. Listen to audio clips by George Michael and Michael Buble.
Song of the Day: Devil with a Blue Dress On, words and music by William Stevenson and Frederick Long, was made famous by Mitch Rider and the Detroit Wheels. It's a rockin' rock 'n roll record, which sports a "Good Golly Miss Molly" interlude. And it's oh-so-appropriate as Song of the Day #666. Listen to an audio clip here.
Song of the Day: Around the World in 80 Days features the music of Victor Young and the lyrics of Harold Adamson (with an uncredited tip of the hat to Kurt Feltz and Gasta Rybrant). It was heard in the 1956 film of the same title. Victor Young's score (audio clip at that link) won an Academy Award in the category of "Scoring of a Dramatic or Comedy Picture." Listen to audio clips from the 1956 soundtrack (unrelated to the soundtrack to the 2004 remake). Also check out audio clips of lovely vocal renditions by Bing Crosby and the McGuire Sisters.
Song of the Day: All Around the World features the words and music of Ian Devaney, Andy Morris, and the woman who sang it: Lisa Stansfield. Listen to an audio clip of this soulful R&B-laced hit here.
Song of the Day: Dear Alice, music by Chick Corea, lyrics by Gayle Moran, is from one of my favorite Chick Corea albums of all time: "The Mad Hatter." Listen here and here to audio clips of this highlight from the album, featuring a superb bass solo by Eddie Gomez. And Happy Birthday, Chick!
Song of the Day: Have You Met Miss Jones?, music by Richard Rodgers, lyrics by Lorenz Hart, is from the 1937 Broadway musical "I'd Rather Be Right." My brother, guitarist Carl Barry, along with his guitar pal Jack Wilkins, played this tune at a jazz guitar tribute to Tal Farlow, and the guys brought down the house. I don't have an audio clip of that duet, but you can listen to a full-length live club clip of Carl with guitarist Joe Giglio (Carl is in the right-hand speaker). Today is the 60th annual Tony Awards ceremony at Radio City Music Hall; listen to audio clips of renditions of this Broadway nugget by Louis Armstrong, a scatting Anita O'Day, Ella Fitzgerald, Mel Torme, Robbie Williams, Phil Woods and Stephane Grappelli, and a live version by Tony Bennett.
Song of the Day: My Romance, music by Richard Rodgers, lyrics by Lorenz Hart, is from the 1935 Billy Rose Broadway production, "Jumbo" (which was also a 1962 Doris Day film). This is the weekend that Broadway celebrates the 60th anniversary of the Antoinette Perry Awards, also known as "The Tonys." Listen to audio clips of renditions by Doris Day, Ella Fitzgerald, Carly Simon, James Taylor, pianist Dave Brubeck, and pianist Bill Evans.
Song of the Day: A Man and a Woman, words and music by Pierre Barough and Francis Lai, with English lyrics by Jerry Keller, is from the 1966 film "Un Homme et Une Femme." Listen to audio clips of this ever-recognizable song by Nancy Ames and Johnny Mathis.
Some time ago, I named Mendelssohn's "E Minor Concerto" as my "Song of the Day" (yes, it is a very broad meaning that I attach to "Song" on my ever-evolving list). I talked in that entry of a young violinist and prodigy named "Nanette Gampel," but I had given her the wrong first name! Her name was (and is) Lilit Gampel, and I want to thank an offlist correspondent for pointing me in the right direction.
Either way, the music she made on that night before the Boston Pops Orchestra was extraordinary.
Comments welcome.
Song of the Day: Bim-Bom, written by Joao Gilberto, has been recorded by many artists. Listen to audio clips of various renditions of this lively Brazilian tune: a solo Gilberto, Gilberto with Stan Getz, and Stan Getz in a Big Band setting, and, finally, my favorite version from Brasil 66.
Song of the Day: Don't Stop 'Til You Get Enough, written and recorded by Michael Jackson, is from one of his finest solo albums: "Off the Wall." The song, highlighting Jackson's falsetto, captures a classic sound and era. Listen to an audio clip here.
Song of the Day: Don't Stop (audio clip for this song is mislabeled; it's the link at "Be with You") features the words and music of James Wirrick and Jeff Mehl. It was performed to Disco Diva Perfection by Sylvester.
Song of the Day: Don't Lose the Magic, words and music by M. Wilson, B. Dickens, and G. Christopher, was a hot dance hit for Shawn Christopher (who was highlighted last time out). Listen to an audio clip here (which, unfortunately, never gets to the vocals!).
Song of the Day: Another Sleepless Night, words and music by Mike "Hitman" Wilson and Tracey Amos, features the blazing vocals of Shawn Christopher. Listen to an audio clip of this hot dance classic here. (And, by all means, don't lose sleep ... Notablog will return on June 5, 2006. NYU is moving my whole site to a "new, more robust server.")
As I announced here, there have been many changes made by the NYU Web Team to the interface for Notablog. I want to thank the whole NYU crew (Jodi, Amit, Tom) for updating the site with a new MovableType Publishing Platform, which has made posting to this blog much easier and much more efficient. Moreover, I like the way the blog looks, and judging from my offlist email, most people like the new look too.
One of the biggest problems that I've had in maintaining the blog has been my inability to moderate comments and to eliminate trackbacks. Without moderation of comments, and without the ability to restrict trackbacks, I had been struggling daily to regulate thousands of links to porno or gambling sites, and it became virtually impossible to leave this blog alone for a day or two, without inviting hundreds of additional spam links that had to be subsequently erased.
Now that I have the capacity to moderate and eliminate these kinds of links, I have decided, starting today, June 1, 2006, to open up virtually all Notablog posts to comments. This means... DRUM ROLL PLEASE:
Readers can now register their thoughts on... my "Song of the Day" picks (including today's pick).
Heaven Help Us.
Well, truthfully, I get many daily emails from people all over the world about my "Song of the Day" listings. Every so often, I've actually heard from the musician or composer I've highlighted, which is very gratifying, indeed. And judging by the statistics, my favorite songs and my favorite things are consistently the most popular pages on the website. So, by popular demand, I'm going to experiment with open comments on my "Song of the Day" listings from this point on.
Please note, however, that I'm not interested in debating my very eclectic musical tastes. This is not the place to tell me that "this song sucks" or to ask me, incredulously, "how can you like that musician?" If readers don't like my tastes, they are free to develop their own "Song of the Day" listings, and I encourage it!
This caution notwithstanding, I think it will be very interesting to read comments on the daily musical posts; if they are half as instructive as the ones I receive by private email, alerting me to other versions of songs or to the history of a song or the musical or movie or composer from whence it comes ... then Notablog will evolve into a rather entertaining place to visit.
Since my overall comments policy is still in effect (see here), I will be closing the comments sections for older posts as they disappear from the "Recent Comments" sidebar. Further, as my policy statement indicates:
Readers are advised to stay "on message" in any particular discussion thread. Inappropriate or rude comments will be deleted, along with any "spam" messages, and those who post such comments will be prohibited from further posting at Notablog.
Of course, Notablog is not the only activity in which I am currently engaged. I am working diligently on many, many projects, including my typical editing duties for The Journal of Ayn Rand Studies, and my writing of various magazine articles and entries for several encyclopedias and forthcoming books. But with the onset of Summer, I will also be taking some time off.
First, please note that there will be no posts on June 3, 2006 or June 4, 2006; on those dates, New York University will be migrating all current accounts to a "new, more robust server," and that means that this site, the comments, and my own publishing platform will be totally inaccessible. I will resume "Song of the Day" listings on June 5th.
Second, please note that I plan to go on summer hiatus for about a month, overlapping July and August.
In the meantime, all I ask is that you have fun. I know that I'm having a ball!
Comments welcome.
Song of the Day: Reelin' in the Years, words and music by Walter Becker and Donald Fagen, is one of my favorite Steely Dan hits. Listen to an audio clip here.
Song of the Day: Yah Mo Be There features the words and music of Rod Temperton and Quincy Jones, and the two gents who first recorded this smooth track: Michael McDonald and James Ingram (audio clips at those artist links).
Song of the Day: Give Me Tonight, words and music by Chris Barbosa and Ed Chisolm, was a smash dance hit for Shannon. Along with "Let the Music Play," this freestyle classic was spun regularly on the Sciabarra DJ turntables in the mid-80s. Listen to an audio clip here.
Song of the Day: Never Can Say Goodbye, words and music by Clifton Davis, remains one of my favorite Jackson Five hits. Listen to audio clips from the original Jackson Five and also a very nice Gloria Gaynor dance remake.
Song of the Day: There'll Be Some Changes Made, music by W. Benton Overstreet, lyrics by Billy Higgins, has been recorded by many artists since its debut in the Roaring '20s. Listen to audio clips of versions by Ethel Waters (who sings the rarely heard intro), Ted Lewis, Sophie Tucker, Billie Holiday, Benny Goodman, Peggy Lee, and Tony Bennett.
Song of the Day: Harlem Nocturne, composed by Earle Hagen, has been recorded by many artists since 1940. It was even heard as a jazzy signature theme for the TV series, "Mickey Spillane's Mike Hammer," in the mid-1980s. Listen to an audio clip of Herbie Fields, perhaps the most famous version.
Song of the Day: I'm Confessin' (That I Love You), music by Doc Daugherty and Ellis Reynolds, lyrics by Al J. Neiburg, was my mother and father's "song." This lovely tune has been performed by so many artists through the years. Listen to audio clips of versions by Guy Lombardo, Django Reinhardt and Stephane Grappelli with the Quintet of the Hot Club of France (I also love a rare version with Django on electric guitar), Perry Como, Ella Fitzgerald, Louis Armstrong, and Tony Bennett with k.d. lang.
Song of the Day: Flying Home is credited to Benny Goodman, Lionel Hampton, and Sid Robin. Listen to the classic Lionel Hampton recording and another by Charlie Barnet and His Orchestra.
Song of the Day: Overjoyed, words and music by Stevie Wonder, concludes our Twelve Days of Stevie. Listen to an audio clip of this sensitive ballad here.
I haven't the foggiest. I don't know. I just don't know.
I think Taylor may have won the night by a slim margin... but then again, I'm just not sure. And who knows who the audience will vote for!? I don't think there will be a huge "injustice" either way... but I'd love to hear your thoughts...
Taylor Hicks or Katharine McPhee???
Comments welcome.
Song of the Day: Get It features the words and music of Stevie Wonder, who duets on this track with Michael Jackson. The two had collaborated before (for example, Jackson performed Stevie's jazz-flavored composition "I Can't Help It; the two also sang together on "Just Good Friends"). But this one dances to its own beat. Listen to an audio clip here.
Song of the Day: Ribbon in the Sky features the words and music of Stevie Wonder, who provides us with another example of his passionate vocals and keyboard work. Listen to an audio clip of this song here.
Song of the Day: You Haven't Done Nothin' features the words and music of Stevie Wonder, who recorded this song with the Jackson 5. Listen to an audio clip of this pop-funk track here.
Song of the Day: Send One Your Love, words and music by Stevie Wonder, is a precious selection from a score he wrote for a 1979 documentary film entitled "The Secret Life of Plants." The album was entitled "Journey Through the Secret Life of Plants"; this song was also a highlight from his "Original Musiquarium I" hits package (audio clip at that link).
Song of the Day: Go Home, words, music, and performance by Stevie Wonder, is a melodic-and-rhythmic highlight from his fine album "In Square Circle" (audio clip at that link).
Song of the Day: Don't You Worry 'Bout a Thing, words and music by Stevie Wonder, is also from "Innervisions." Listen to an audio clip here (yes, that makes six tracksâif you count this one and this oneâselected for my favorite list, all from one great album).
As readers of Notablog know, I'm a long-time viewer of "American Idol" (see here, here, here, and here).
Well, last night was the showdown between the final three contestants. For me, Katharine McPhee earned her way into the final installment (to be aired next week) just on the strength of her rendition of "Over the Rainbow." She even sang the rarely heard introduction!
The problem, for me, is that I genuinely like the other two contestants as well: Taylor Hicks and Elliott Yamin. I think the latter has a nice soul presence, and the former is utterly fearless in his performances. If I were a betting man, I'd say it will be Hicks and McPhee in the final installment, but the voting has been known to surprise.
Tonight, we'll see who moves on! Stay tuned...
Comments welcome.
Song of the Day: Golden Lady, words and music by Stevie Wonder, is yet another "Innervisions" classic. Listen to an audio clip here.
I've been a busy boy over these many weeks, working on several projects. But I did have the opportunity to see the great film score composer, John Williams, conduct the New York Philharmonic at Avery Fisher Hall.
I've been to other Lincoln Center tributes to film music: A terrific program in 2005, featuring Itzhak Perlman, which I commented on here, and a previous John Williams appearance in February 2004, "The Art of the Score," which featured selections from "Close Encounters of the Third Kind," "JFK," the Harry Potter films, "Far and Away," "Catch Me if You Can," "Schindler's List," "E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial," and a few other classic fanfares and encores (including the theme from "Star Wars").
This year, the Williams program focused on the music of the incomparable Bernard Herrmann, and, in the second half, the various collaborations between Steven Spielberg and John Williams. What made the concert extra-special was the appearance of directors Martin Scorsese and Steve Spielberg as hosts.
Scorsese spoke glowingly of the great Herrmann, and gave us a wonderful portrait of how Herrmann worked. Selections from Herrmann's scores were in abundance: "Death Hunt," from On Dangerous Ground, material from Herrmann's early years in Hollywood (Citizen Kane, The Devil and Daniel Webster, and Currier and Ives), a magnificent section on his immortal collaborations with Alfred Hitchcock, featuring excerpts from the films themselves (the lovely, sensitive melody of the "Scene d'Amour" from Vertigo, the unmistakable prelude and jarring shower scene chords from Psycho, and the thrilling main theme from North by Northwest), and two selections from Taxi Driver.
Scorsese told a charming and poignant story of his work with Herrmann on that last film. On the very last night before the film wrapped, Scorsese was looking for one last cue that would somehow convey the off-kilter character of Robert "You Talkin' to Me" DeNiro. Herrmann had the orchestra play a single chord.
"That's it?" Scorsese asked.
"Yes! Play it backwards," the maestro said. And then, Herrmann left the studio.
And they did run the recording of that chord backwards, and it is amazing what that sound conveys.
But it was the last cue ever conducted by Herrmann, who passed away that very evening.
The second half of the program was hosted by Spielberg, and opened with the classic approaching shark theme from Jaws. Williams led the orchestra through excerpts from Close Encounters and Schindler's List (featuring the wonderful Glenn Dicterow on violin). And Spielberg gave us a lesson on the organic role that music plays in the crafting of film, a role that began with those pianists who offered live accompaniment during the silent era. We watched a whole film segment without music from Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade, with River Phoenix as the young Indiana. And then, the orchestra joined in, as Spielberg re-ran the same scene, providing us with a live rendition of the scoring, in sync with the action on film. It was utterly remarkable, and helped us to appreciate the art of the score, not just creatively, but technically as well.
The most breathtaking segment of the concert, however, had to be the finale from E.T. The Extra Terrestrial. I'd seen Williams conduct this particular finale back in 2004, but this time, the orchestra provided live accompaniment for the final segment of the film, which was shown in its entirety on the big screen. Exhilirating, stupendous, phenomenal... there just aren't enough adjectives to describe this experience. It brought me and many other audience members to tears, and in the end, it brought every single person to their feet.
The Williams, Scorsese, and Spielberg commentary made the concert an entertaining and educational treat. But what would any concert be without an encore? Williams re-took the stage after the E.T. extravaganza, and gave us additional material from his recent score to Munich. He also conducted his fanfare for the "NBC Nightly News," since it was doubtful that any of us would get home in time to catch it.
The concert ended with the theme from Star Wars, a triumphal conclusion to a splendid evening.
Bravo!
Comments welcome.
Song of the Day: Living for the City, words and music by Stevie Wonder, is another "Innervisions" gem. Listen to an audio clip here of this classic track, which integrates great melody, rhythm, and social commentary.
Song of the Day: Too High, words and music by Stevie Wonder, is from the classic Grammy award-winning album, "Innervisions." Listen to an audio clip of this super fine song here.
Song of the Day: Isn't She Lovely? features the words, music, and performance of Stevie Wonder. This exuberant song is from another classic Stevie album: "Songs in the Key of Life" (audio clip at that link). A lyrical celebration of Wonder's newborn daughter Aisha Morris, whose crying is heard on the recording, this song is also a tribute to the love of fathers and mothers: Happy Mother's Day!
Song of the Day: Signed, Sealed, Delivered, I'm Yours features the words and music of Lee Garrett, Syreeta Wright, Lula Hardaway, and her son, Stevie Wonder, who is today's birthday boy. Listen to an audio clip here, and join us for the next "Twelve Days of Stevie," which will highlight some of my favorite songs from one of my all-time favorite artists.
Song of the Day: Cinnamon and Clove, music by Johnny Mandel, lyrics by Marilyn and Alan Bergman, is one of those melodic Brazilian classics recorded by Brasil 66. Listen to an audio clip from their magnificent album, "Equinox."
Song of the Day: Comedian's Galop is a long-time favorite, composed by Dmitri Borisovitch Kabalevsky as part of an orchestral suite, "The Comedians." Yes, I was first exposed to this composition while watching cartoon classics as a kid (audio clip at that link). Also check out audio clips from the full suite, performed by the San Diego Chamber Orchestra.
Song of the Day: Manha de Carnaval (Morning of Carnival), music by Luiz Bonfa, original lyrics by Antonio Maria, English lyrics by George Weiss, Hugo Peretti, and Luigi Creatore, is from the 1959 film, "Black Orpheus." Listen to audio clips of versions from the original soundtrack, Luiz Bonfa (on guitar and vocals), tenor saxophonist Stan Getz with big band, vocalist Astrud Gilberto, and a duet by guitarists John McLaughlin and Al Dimeola.
Song of the Day: The Flight of the Bumble Bee was composed by Nikolai Andreevich Rimsky-Korsakov for the opera "The Tale of Tsar Saltan," based on a poem by Aleksandr Pushkin. Listen to audio clips of this fleet-of-finger composition here and here.
Song of the Day: Shangri-La, words and music by Carl Sigman, Matty Malneck (an old family friend) and harpist Robert Maxwell, who performs the original instrumental track. Listen to an audio clip of the Maxwell hit, as well as vocal versions by the Four Coins, The Lettermen, and The Vogues (hat tip, JR!).
Song of the Day: Symphony No. 3 in F Major, Op. 90 is one of the greatest compositions of Johannes Brahms, today's birthday boy. I especially love the Third Movement. Listen here to an audio clip, performed by the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, with Georg Solti conducting.
Song of the Day: Hungry for Your Love features the words and music of Kurtis Mantronik and the team of Aaron Hanson and E. J. Davis, who perform this fiery freestyle track. Listen here to an audio clip of this 80s dance hit.
Song of the Day: Symphony No. 5 in C-Minor, Op. 67, composed by Ludwig van Beethoven, can be identified instantaneously from its first four notes. Listen to audio clips of its various movements, as played by the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra. The opening four-note hook has permeated so much of musical culture. It even shows up in disco on the "Saturday Night Fever" soundtrack, in Walter Murphy's "A Fifth of Beethoven" (audio clip at that link). Celebrate the Fifth on the Fifth of the Fifth month.
Song of the Day: Part-time Lover, features the words, music, and performance of Stevie Wonder, along with the ever recognizable scat singing of Luther Vandross. Listen here to an audio clip of this finger-snappin' hit song.
Song of the Day: Magic Lady (audio clip at that link) features the words and music of Sergio Mendes, Michael Sembello, and Gene Lees. Though I have enjoyed listening to the album version, I utterly adored many-a-live renditions of this, performed by my jazz guitarist brother Carl and jazz singer-sister-in-law Joanne, when they were doing the Village circuit in the mid-1970s.
Song of the Day: It Never Entered My Mind features the music of Richard Rodgers and the lyrics of today's birthday boy, Lorenz Hart. It was first heard in the 1940 Broadway production of "Higher and Higher." It has been recorded by many artists, including Sarah Vaughan, Linda Ronstadt, Chet Baker, and Miles Davis (audio clips at those links).
Song of the Day: Brick House features the words and music of Lionel Richie, Ronald LaPread, Walter Orange, Roger Ball, and Milan Williams. It was a huge funky hit for The Commodores (audio clip at that link). And Happy 75th Birthday to the biggest "brick house" in NYC: The Empire State Building.
Song of the Day: Your Personal Touch (audio clip at that link), featuring the words and music of Allen George and F. McFarlane, is delivered with jazzy and funky flair by Evelyn Champagne King. (Wow, this marks the1000th entry on Notablog!)
Song of the Day: Sir Duke, words and music by Stevie Wonder, is a tribute to birthday boy Duke Ellington. Today also happens to be the birthday of my brother, jazz guitarist Carl Barry, who would sometimes perform this little nugget, with my jazz vocalist sister-in-law Joanne, on club dates. Happy Birthday!
Song of the Day: Doralice, words and music by Dorival Caymmi and Antonio Almeida, is another great selection from one of my favorite all-time albums: Getz/Gilberto (audio clip at that link).
Song of the Day: Someone to Light Up My Life (Se Todos Fossem Iguais A Voce), words and music by Antonio Carlos Jobim, Gene Lees, Vinicius De Moraes, has been recorded by many artists. Listen to audio clips of versions by Sinatra and Jobim and Nancy Ames with guitarist Laurindo Almeida.
Song of the Day: For Me features the words and music of Harold Lobo and Norman Gimbel. I adore a version by Brasil 66 from the album, "Equinox" (audio clip at that link).
Song of the Day: Love Light in Flight, words, music, and performance by Stevie Wonder, was featured in the 1984 film, "The Woman in Red." Listen to an audio clip of this rhythmic soulful song here.
Song of the Day: Where is the Wonder?, words and music by Michael Barr and Dion McGregor, is featured in a sweet arrangement by Peter Matz from today's birthday girl Barbra Streisand's magnificent album, "My Name is Barbra" (audio clip at that link). It was also featured on Streisand's stupendous 1965 TV special of the same name.
Song of the Day: Ben-Hur ("Choral Suite") (audio clips at that link), was composed by Miklos Rozsa and arranged and reconstructed by Daniel Robbins. Happy Easter to my family and to all my Greek and Russian Orthodox friends. And our Rozsa Tribute, which began here, comes to a conclusion. Next year, the tribute will return to mark the Rozsa Centenary!
Song of the Day: Sinfonia Concertante for Violin and Cello, Op. 29, composed by Miklos Rozsa, is one of the maestro's finest concert works. Listen to audio clips from renditions featuring the great violinist Jascha Heifetz, cellist Richard Bock and violinist Igor Gruppman with the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra, and the Philharmonia Hungarica.
Song of the Day: Ben-Hur ("The Procession to Calvary" / "The Bearing of the Cross") (audio clips at that link), composed by Miklos Rozsa, coincides with the Eastern Orthodox Good Friday. It is as if Rozsa captures all the pain of The Passion; it's a classic musical moment in a classic film.
Song of the Day: Lust for Life ("Sien" / "Reunion"), composed by Miklos Rozsa, is from the score for the 1956 film "Lust for Life," starring Kirk Douglas. Listen to the full-length audio clips of these cues here; check out here also.
I always look forward to the installment on "American Idol" that focuses on the Great American Songbook. Last night's competition round was, for me, the most satisfying yet insofar as most of the contestants were pretty strong. Of course, some of the great standards were "butchered," as one of the contestants admitted, but it was still an entertaining hour.
Tonight, Rod Stewart takes the stage to showcase his take on the standards. I've not been too impressed with his various volumes dedicated to the Golden Era of American songwriting, but I give him credit for mining the gold therein.
In any event, after tonight, another contestant will "bite the dust" (yeah, they did a Queen-focused show last week).
Comments welcome.
Song of the Day: Diane ("Beauty and Grace"), composed by Miklos Rozsa, is from the film score to the 1956 MGM swashbuckler. Listen to an audio clip from the soundtrack here and to full-length cues here (especially the lovely version with piano and violin).
Today, I publish a Notablog exclusive: An interview of me conducted by Jason Dixon. The interview was conducted in late 2005-early 2006, but is finally seeing the light of day here at Notablog.
Check it out:
An Interview Conducted by Jason Dixon
Comments welcome. Also noted at L&P.
Song of the Day: Theme, Variations, and Finale (audio clips at that link) is one the finest orchestral compositions in the Miklos Rozsa canon. Today would have been the maestro's 99th birthday! Happy Birthday, Miklos!
Song of the Day: Sodom and Gomorrah ("Lot's Mission" / "Epilogue") (audio clip at that link), composed by Miklos Rozsa, is featured on the soundtrack to the 1962 film. Check out an additional clip from the soundtrack here.
Song of the Day: Quo Vadis ("Choral Suite") was composed by Miklos Rozsa and arranged and reconstructed by Daniel Robbins. Happy Easter to all my Western Christian friends! Listen to audio clips from the suite here and to Mario Lanza, who provides a vocal rendition of the "Lygia" theme from the film.
Song of the Day: El Cid ("Love Theme: The Falcon and the Dove"), music by Miklos Rozsa, lyrics by Paul Francis Webster, was nominated for a 1961 Academy Award for Best Song from the epic film, "El Cid." This was the only "Best Song" nomination of Rozsa's career; it lost out to another great song: "Moon River." Listen to an audio clip of an instrumental version here.
Song of the Day: King of Kings ("Choral Suite"), composed by Miklos Rozsa, arranged and reconstructed by Daniel Robbins, begins a ten-day tribute to Rozsa that will encompass his birthday and the Easter holidays. Given some of the music he wrote for Biblical epics, it's an appropriate coincidence of dates. Today marks the Western Christian Good Friday; I highlight this magnificent choral suite from the film score to the 1961 version of "King of Kings." It was recorded by the Cincinnati Pops Orchestra, with Erich Kunzel conducting, and the Mormon Tabernacle Choir, directed by Craig Jessop. Listen to audio clips from the suite here.
Song of the Day: Moonlight Sonata (aka "Piano Sonata No. 14, C-Sharp Minor, Op. 27, No. 2") is one of the great compositions of Ludwig van Beethoven. A full moon today... how apropos! Listen to an audio clip here.
Song of the Day: Show Me Love, words and music by Allan George and Fred McFarlane, was a #1 hit on the Billboard Dance chart for Robin S in 1993. Listen to an audio clip of this house music favorite here.
Song of the Day: Gotta See You Tonight, words and music by Paul Simpson, was a #1 dance hit in 1986, recorded by Barbara Roy. Listen here to an audio clip of this dance track, driven by a propulsive bass line.
Song of the Day: Like a Lover features the words and music of Dori Caymmi, Nelson Motta, Alan and Marilyn Bergman. Sensuous as the "velvet moon," it has been recorded by Sarah Vaughan, Diane Reeves, and Brasil 66 (audio clips at those links).
Song of the Day: Mas Que Nada (Pow Pow Pow) features the words and music of L. Deane and J. Ben. Listen to audio clips of this Brazilian nugget recorded by Dizzy Gillespie, Brasil 66, Sergio Mendes and the Black Eyed Peas, and, my favorite rendition, by Nancy Ames.
Song of the Day: Roda, words and music by Gilberto Gil and Joao Augusto, features a lovely melody caressed by a Brazilian beat. Listen to an audio clip of a rendition performed by Brasil 66.
Song of the Day: My Man (Mon Homme) features French lyrics by Albert Willemetz and Jacques Charles, English lyrics by Channing Pollock, and music by Maurice Yvain. (Additional writing credits go to I. Bibo and L. Woods.) It was sung originally by Fanny Brice, but was revived magnificently by Barbra Streisand for "Funny Girl" (audio clip at that link). My favorite Streisand version of this song is on her classic album "My Name is Barbra" (audio clip at that link).
Song of the Day: Deep Purple, sometimes referred to as "When the Deep Purple Falls," lyrics by Mitchell Parish, music by Peter DeRose, has been recorded in many wonderful renditions. I love an instrumental version by the "Dark Angel of the Fiddle," jazz violinist Eddie South (audio clip at that link). Check out audio clips of other versions by Artie Shaw with vocalist Helen Forrest and Billy Ward and His Dominoes.
Song of the Day: If You Leave Me Now, music by Glenn Gutierrez, Dadgel Atabay, and Stevie B., who also provides the lyrics. Listen to an audio clip of a rendition by Stevie B., but the version that I love most was recorded by Jaya (audio clip at that link). Stevie B. actually produced that track, and provided the background vocals too.
Song of the Day: Fried Pies (audio clip at that link) was composed and recorded by the great jazz guitarist Wes Montgomery. Swingin'.
Song of the Day: Song of India, composed by Nikolai Andreevich Rimsky-Korsakov, with English lyrics by Johnny Mercer, has been recorded in countless versions. Though a lovely orchestral piece, it was also a hit for Mario Lanza and became a great Big Band hit for Tommy Dorsey (audio clips at those links).
Song of the Day: I'm Gonna Sit Right Down and Write Myself a Letter, music by Fred E. Ahlert, lyrics by Joe Young, is a fine ol' standard from Tin Pan Alley. Listen to audio clips performed by Dean Martin, Sarah Vaughan, actor-turned-singer Danny Aiello, and Billy Williams.
Song of the Day: What Kind of Fool Am I? features the music of Lesley Bricusse and the lyrics of Anthony Newley, who performed it in the early 1960s musical, "Stop the World I Want to Get Off" (audio clip at that link). Listen to audio clips of other versions by Keely Smith and Sammy Davis Jr. And a Happy April Fool's Day to all!
Song of the Day: In the Mood, words by Andy Razaf, music by Joe Garland, was a Glenn Miller mega-hit. Listen to audio clips of Glenn Miller and, in a vocal rendition, the ever-effervescent Bette Midler.
Song of the Day: Don't Take Your Love From Me, words and music by Henry Nemo, is one of those "slit-your-wrists" standards. I loved when my Aunt Joan used to sing this (she'd performed it on radio too back in the day). Listen to audio clips of versions by Billy Eckstine, Etta James, and Frank Sinatra (who does a mid-tempo swing version as well).
Song of the Day: Fortress Around Your Heart, composed and recorded by Sting, is from his terrific, jazzy solo album "The Dream of the Blue Turtles," which features Branford Marsalis on the saxophone. I saw him perform this at Radio City Music Hall on his Blue Turtles Tour; the band was superb. Listen to an audio clip of the album version here.
Song of the Day: Must Be the Music (audio clip at that link) features the words and music of M. Blackmon and J. Prister and the funky performance of the group Secret_Weapon. A classic Prelude dance track, this one was also given a glorious KISS-FM "Mastermix" treatment by Tony Humphries.
Song of the Day: Do It Again, words and music by Walter Becker and Donald Fagen, was a huge hit for Steely Dan. This song has been such an expression of American pop music that it was even part of two medleys with Michael Jackson's "Billie Jean," one by Club House and the other by Slingshot (an early "mash-up," perhaps?). Listen to an audio clip of that Club House rendition, and to the original and best version by Steely Dan. And Happy Birthday to my pal, Aeon Skoble (who is a Steely Dan fan).
Song of the Day: Don't Cha, words and music by T. Callaway and T. Smith, is one of those fluff, borderline-offensive pop hits that, when played over and over again, gets into your head, and just doesn't leave. First recorded by Tori Alamaze, this song reached #2 on the Billboard Hot 100 in a version by the Pussycat Dolls and Busta Rhymes. Sometimes when I'm not crazy about a song, the DJ in me gets hooked by a hot remix. "Ralphi's Hot Freak" remix of this song is, indeed, scalding (audio clip at that link). An audio clip of the original mix can be heard here.
Song of the Day: Sweet Home Alabama features the words and music of Ed King, Gary Rossington, and Ronnie Van Zant, of the band, Lynyrd Skynyrd. Listen to an audio clip of this Southern rock classic here. The group was inducted on March 13, 2006 into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Listen also to an audio clip of a version by Jewel (sample at that link) from the soundtrack for the 2002 film of the same name.
Song of the Day: Humoresque, composed by Antonin Dvorak, is a charming piece that has been recorded by many classical and jazz instrumentalists. It was featured in the 1946 film of the same name, starring Joan Crawford and John Garfield. The violinist who dubbed for Garfield in the film was Isaac Stern (audio clip at that link). I'm very fond of a jazz rendition by violinist Joe Venuti found on the album, "Fiddle on Fire." That version isn't available online, but an alternative version with guitarist George Barnes is available in infuriatingly short audio clips here and here. For a more traditional rendering, listen to an audio clip featuring the London Symphony Orchestra.
Song of the Day: Off the Wall, words and music by Rod Temperton, was recorded as the title track of one of Michael Jackson's finest solo efforts. Listen to an audio clip here.
Song of the Day: Night on Bald Mountain (aka "St. John's Night on the Bare Mountain") was composed by Modest Petrovich Mussorgsky. I was first exposed to this "tone poem" when it accompanied one of my favorite sequences in the 1940 film "Fantasia." Listen to a brief midi audio clip here, and an audio clip of a version performed by the Cleveland Orchestra conducted by Lorin Maazel. And don't forget its derivative, by David Shire, recorded for the soundtrack of the 1977 film "Saturday Night Fever": "Night on Disco Mountain" (audio clip at that link).
Song of the Day: Constant Rain (Chove Chuva) features the music and original lyrics of Jorge Ben, and the English lyrics of Norman Gimbel. With a line that says "Everyday was Spring to Me," this melancholy Brazilian song is one of the highlights on a Brasil 66 album entitled "Equinox" (audio clip at that link). Listen also to two audio clips from Miriam Makeba.
Song of the Day: The Rite of Spring ("Introduction"), composed by Igor Stravinsky, is ever-so-appropriate to mark the Vernal Equinox, which arrives today at 1:26 p.m. (you were expecting "Springtime for Hitler," perhaps?). I know the full orchestral piece can be jarringly dissonant in some of its aspects, but I have always associated the lovely placid sounds of its introduction with the gentleness of Spring. Stravinsky borrowed the melody of that introduction, played by a solo bassoon, from a pre-existing folk tune, composed by Lithuanian Anton Juszkiewicz, entitled "Tu, manu seséréle" (read this PDF about the opening solo). Listen to audio clips from the whole ballet, performed by the Cleveland Orchestra, conducted by Pierre Boulez.
Song of the Day: I Cried for You, words and music by Arthur Freed, Gus Arnheim, and Abe Lyman, is another one of those 'poetic justice' standards of the Great American Songbook. Listen to audio clips by Billie Holiday (the clip doesn't quite get to her vocals), Harry James (with vocalist Helen Forest), Sarah Vaughan, and a swingin' live version by Carmen McRae.
Song of the Day: Minuet (Opus 11, No. 5) (midi audio clip at that link), composed by Luigi Boccherini, is featured in the composer's E Major Quintet G. 275. It is another one of those very famous and delightful classical themes that has been heard in so many venues. I was introduced to this particular piece when I first saw the hilarious 1961 Frank Capra film, "Pocketful of Miracles" with Bette Davis as Apple Annie (actually a remake of Capra's 1933 film, "Lady for a Day"). It was also used in such films as "The Magnificent Ambersons" and the 1955 version of "The Ladykillers." Listen to an audio clip featuring the string quintet, Europa Galante.
Song of the Day: I've Got the Next Dance, words and music by J. D. Williams, C. Fowler, and K. Johnson, was recorded by Deniece Williams. It was a hot disco hit that I loved dancing to when it came out in 1979, probably my favorite year of dance music in the disco era. Listen to an audio clip here.
Readers of Notablog are surely aware that I have a profound love for film scores. It is therefore no surprise that I'd recommend to your attention the weblog of the immensely talented composer Michael G. Shapiro. It's MikeMusic Radio, and it routinely movesand entertains. My biggest problem is that I've been unable to come up with a short list of recorded compositions for Mike to send me. At the very least, however, let me highly recommend Mike's most recent series of posted cues. They center on the audiobook series for Ayn Rand's work, Anthem. Check it out:
But please do yourselves a favor... look through all of Mike's cue archives. This Anthem material is just the tiniest tip of the iceberg!
Bravo, Mike! And keep the cues comin'!
Comments welcome.
Song of the Day: In the Hall of the Mountain King (audio clip at that link) was composed by Edvard Grieg as part of the "Peer Gynt Suites" (audio clips from the orchestral suite at that link). This famous Grieg theme has been heard in many renditions by orchestras and rock groups, in cartoons and video games. A tiny lick of it even shows up in "Open Sesame" (audio clip at that link) by Kool and the Gang from the 1977 soundtrack to "Saturday Night Fever." Grieg's composition is not, strictly speaking, a tribute to the telephone, except that it is the featured ringtone on my own cell phone. Okay, okay, folks: Y'all can hang up now ... our tribute to the telephone has been disconnected. But do check out a few additional songs about telephones.
Song of the Day: I Just Called to Say I Love You was never one of my favorite Stevie Wonder songs. I know it's a 1984 Oscar winner for Best Song from the film "The Woman in Red" (audio clip of the original recording at that link). But I never thought it was all that much like ... Stevie! (And it was really nice seeing a Wonder-themed show on "American Idol" last night, even if the performances weren't always top notch.) Then, one day, I heard a remarkable rendition by Diane Schurr with Herbie Hancock (audio clip at that link), and was knocked out. Listen also to an audio clip of a similar arrangement with Herbie Hancock and Raul Midon (with Stevie on harmonica).
Song of the Day: Call Me Irresponsible, music by Jimmy Van Heusen, lyrics by Sammy Cahn, is the Oscar-winning song from the 1963 film, "Papa's Delicate Condition," starring Jackie Gleason. I love a 12-string jazz guitar version by Joe Pass. Listen to an audio clip of Ol' Blue Eyes singing this gem live in a Rat Pack performance at the Sands. Listen to additional audio clips from Robert Goulet, Jack Jones, Nancy Wilson, and a swinging Bobby Darin.
Song of the Day: Call Me, words and music by Giorgio Moroder and Deborah Harry, the lead singer of the group Blondie, was the theme from the 1980 film, "American Gigolo." The group is being inducted tonight into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. This song is probably my favorite Blondie track (in contrast to my favorite, and beloved, Blondie). Listen to an audio clip from the original soundtrack.
Song of the Day: Call Me, words and music by Tony Hatch, has been performed by Frank Sinatra, Shirley Bassey, Petula Clark, and Nancy Wilson (my favorite version), among others (audio clips at artist links). It's a warm '60s chestnut.
Song of the Day: Call Me features the words and music of Nikos Karvelas, ex-husband of the Greek singer Anna Vissi, who took this song to #1 on the Billboard Dance Chart. Vissi recorded the song previously as "Ise" in Greek. Listen to an audio clip of this song among others on disc #2 of Vic Latino's Ultra Dance 06.
Song of the Day: Call Me, words and music by Randy Muller, was performed by the group Skyy. Listen to an audio clip here. It's particularly fitting on this day, the 130th anniversary of the first phone call made by Alexander Graham Bell to Thomas A. Watson. Over the next week or so, I'll have a few more favorite musical "calls" to make, in honor of this anniversary. (And "for all you frustrated musicians," see here, where you can access directions on how to play songs on your touch-tone phone.)
Song of the Day: So What? (audio clip at that link), composed and recorded by Miles Davis for the great "Kind of Blue" album, is my tribute to his induction, next week, into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame at the Waldorf Astoria. Yes, he had his influential forays into jazz-rock fusion; but, for me, this classic track and the album on which it appears are among his most timeless recordings.
Steven Horwitz has tagged me for the "Meme-of-Four" (dammit indeed!)
Okay, here goes.
Four jobs I've had:
1. Bookkeeper
2. Assistant Orientation Director
3. Mobile Disc Jockey
4. Editor
Four movies I can watch over and over again:
1. Ben-Hur (1959)
2. Titanic (1997)
3. King Kong (1933)
4. War of the Worlds (1953)
Four places I've lived:
1. Brooklyn (West 5th Street)
2. Brooklyn (West 4th Street)
3. Brooklyn (West 9th Street)
4. Brooklyn (Dahill Road)
(Yeah, I have traveled a lot around this neighborhood...)
Four TV shows I love:
1. The Honeymooners
2. The Twilight Zone
3. The Fugitive
4. One Step Beyond
Four highly regarded and recommended TV shows I havent seen (much of):
1. The Sopranos
2. Battlestar Galactica
3. Law & Order (any of them)
4. CSI (any of them)
Four places Ive vacationed:
1. Phoenix, Arizona
2. Miami, Florida
3. Los Angeles, California
4. Peconic, Long Island
Four of my favorite dishes (only 4?!):
1. Pizza
2. Lasagna
3. Veal cutlet parmigiana
4. Spare ribs
(I could go on and on...)
Four sites I visit daily:
1. Bloglines (hehe)
2. Liberty & Power Group Blog
3. Once Upon a Time
4. Mises Economics Blog
Four places Id rather be right now:
1. Hawaii (on a beach)
2. Las Vegas (by a pool)
3. Athens (sightseeing)
4. Rome (sightseeing)
Four albums I can't live without (today anyway):
1. "Ben-Hur" (soundtrack, Miklos Rozsa composer)
2. "For Django" (Joe Pass)
3. "Embraceable You" (Carl and Joanne Barry, my brother and sister-in-law)
4. "Boss Guitar" (Wes Montgomery)
Four new bloggers I'm tagging:
1. Sunni Maravillosa
2. Chip Gibbons
3. Sheldon Richman
4. Nick Manley
Comments welcome. Cross-posted to L&P.
Song of the Day: Piano Concerto No. 1 in B-Flat Minor is a wonderful Piotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky orchestral composition. I was first exposed to the melody of the first movement when I heard it as the opening theme song of Orson Welles's Mercury Theater on the Air (at that link, you can listen to streaming audio of many programs from the show, including the 1938 broadcast of "The War of the Worlds"). Listen here to audio clips of the concerto, performed by the New York Philharmonic, conducted by Zubin Mehta.
Song of the Day: Moody's Mood for Love has inspired a bit of a debate as to who wrote its lyrics, but there's no doubting who created its melody line: Saxophonist James Moody improvised on the song "I'm in the Mood for Love," and it was Eddie Jefferson who put free-style lyrics to that improvised solo, pioneering "vocalese." Listen to audio clips of renditions by James Moody and Eddie Jefferson, King Pleasure, George Benson, and, finally, Quincy Jones with Brian McKnight, Rachelle Ferrell, Take 6, and James Moody. And props to Elliott Yamin (audio and video clips at that link) of "American Idol" for singing that song on last week's show.
I was having a nice chat with my pal Aeon Skoble, who wrote to me this morning about the "Best Song" winner in last night's Oscar telecast. That song, "It's Hard Out Here for a Pimp," is not exactly in the class of some of the songs I highlighted over the past three weeks in my tribute to "Best Oscar Songs." In fact, I'd dare say that some of the composers of those past Oscar winners are probably spinning in their graves. Swiftly.
As Aeon put it, the newest song was "Utter crap." He continues: "Not that I was especially impressed with the other two nominees either, but really, what crap." He made a more general point that I think should be addressed:
Actually, "best song" is, IMO, a non-category in the first place and ought to be abolished. 95% of the time, it's a song that plays over the closing credits and has nothing whatsoever to do with the film. The other 5% of the time, it's in the film, but is played over some montage (think the obligatory song in every episode of Baywatch) while someone thinks about something or a couple frolics. The validity of this category seems to me to be a throwback to the days when there were lots of musicals -- in that case, you'd have to be able to award the best song, a song that's actually part of the movie. But that's almost never the case anymore. That's my 2c on that.
I pointed out to Aeon that years ago, film scores were much more integrated with the film than what we see and hear today. And many of the songs selected in the second half of the 20th century were from non-musicals. But, again, those songs were integrated into the larger film score, which itself was integral to the story being told. Often, the "Best Song" nominee offered words for a musical theme that was prevalent throughout a movie.
For example, listen to the title song for Henry Mancini's magnificent score for "Two for the Road," or the famous song from Johnny Mandel's luscious score for "The Sandpiper." When words were added to that Mandel love theme, the song became "The Shadow of Your Smile." I'd say the same about "My Heart will Go On," which featured words that were provided for the omnipresent love theme, composed by James Horner, for the film "Titanic." That love theme is, indeed, heard throughout the entire film; the song is integrated with the score, and expressive of the story.
And this is what is all too often missing from "Best Song" nominations in recent years: In my view, the category remains valid, but it has become a lost art.
Aeon pointed out in reply "that the issue of whether the song is integrated into the score is relevant." He certainly agrees "that score is a key component of a film, and it's totally appropriate for the Academy to recognize and reward that." Commenting on my recent "Best Song" tribute, Aeon states further:
I noticed from the links you provided that back in the day, they gave separate awards for score of a regular film versus scores for musicals. That makes sense, and I guess now there aren't enough musicals to bother having two categories for. But this just highlights the gratutitous nature of most "movie songs"and I say that even about movies I like, LOTR ["Lord of the Rings"] for instance. Just playing a song over the closing credits doesn't make it part of the film. Seems to me that the category makes more sense for something like "The Sound of Music" than for "Titanic."
On that particular point, as I say above, I think "My Heart Will Go On" was fully consistent with what I have in mind; it may have been played over the credits, but it was, in fact, the omnipresent "love theme" of "Titanic," with lyrics relevant and appropriate to the tragic story. Of course, songs from "The Sound of Music" would not qualify, unless they were original with the film version (rather than first performed on the Broadway stage). That's one of the reasons that the composers and lyricists from Broadway musicals often add new songs for the film version. (The song "Funny Girl," heard in the film of the same name, but not in the original Broadway musical, is one example of this.)
Anyway, I'd love to hear more on this from Aeon and others; since I don't open up my own song choices for "Song of the Day" to further debate or discussion, now is your chance to get in some thoughts about this particular topic.
Comments welcome.
Song of the Day: I'm in the Mood for Love, music by Jimmy McHugh, lyrics by Dorothy Fields, is a classic of the standard songbook. Originally from the 1935 film, "Every Night at Eight" (okay, okay, another film song for good measure!), it has been recorded by so many vocalists, including Barbra Streisand, Jamiroquai, and Rod Stewart. And it has also been recorded in different forms... as we'll see tomorrow.
Song of the Day: My Heart Will Go On, music by James Horner, lyrics by Will Jennings, was the 1997 Academy Award Winner for Best Song from one of my favorite movies. It put words to one of the most recognizable themes in film music history, from the Oscar-winning soundtrack. Listen to an audio clip of the Celine Dion recording. Today, our film song tribute ends; tonight, we will learn the title of the newest Oscar-winning "Best Song."
Song of the Day: Last Dance, music and lyrics by Paul Jabara, won the 1978 Academy Award for Best Song, from the film "Thank God It's Friday." Listen to an audio clip by Donna Summer (and check out the original soundtrack too).
Song of the Day: The Way We Were, music by Marvin Hamlisch, lyrics by Alan and Marilyn Bergman, was the winner of the 1973 Oscar for Best Song from the film of the same title. Listen to audio clips from versions by Barbra Streisand and Gladys Knight (in a medley with "Try to Remember").
Song of the Day: Funny Girl, music by Jule Styne, lyrics by Bob Merrill, was nominated for a 1968 Academy Award for Best Song from the film of the same title. It replaced a magnificent song from the Broadway score, "The Music that Makes Me Dance," but it shines on its own as a memorable moment from a wonderful musical starring Oscar-winner Barbra Streisand. Listen to an original soundtrack audio clip of Streisand singing this gem.
Song of the Day: The Look of Love, music by Burt Bacharach, lyrics by Hal David, was nominated for a 1967 Academy Award for Best Song from the film "Casino Royale." Listen to audio clips from the original soundtrack (includes an instrumental version and a vocal version by Dusty Springfield) and my favorite rendition by Sergio Mendes and Brasil 66.
Song of the Day: Born Free, music by John Barry, lyrics by Don Black, won the 1966 Academy Award for Best Song from the heart-string-pulling film of the same title. Listen to audio clips of versions by Andy Williams, Matt Monro, and from the original soundtrack.
Song of the Day: My Kind of Town, music by Jimmy Van Heusen, lyrics by Sammy Cahn, was nominated for a 1964 Academy Award for Best Song, from the film "Robin and the Seven Hoods." Listen to an audio clip from the one and only Francis Albert Sinatra.
Song of the Day: More (aka "Ti Guardero' Nel Cuore") (audio clip at that link and here too) features the music of Riz Ortolani and Nino Oliviero, the Italian lyrics of Marcello Ciorciolini, and the English lyrics of Norman Newell. It was nominated for a 1963 Academy Award for Best Song, from the "shocking" documentary film "Mondo Cane." I enjoyed playing this song on violin when I was a kid in junior high school. Listen to audio clips from the original soundtrack here, a Joe Pass version played to jazzy perfection on 12-string guitar, and an Andy Williams version too.
Song of the Day: Charade is another magnificent collaboration between composer Henry Mancini and lyricist Johnny Mercer. It was nominated for a 1963 Academy Award for Best Song, featured on the beautiful score for the classic Cary Grant-Audrey Hepburn film of the same title, the best Hitchcock movie Hitchcock never directed. One of my favorite versions of this song is an instrumental rendering by jazz guitarist Joe Pass, who plays it on the 12-string guitar. Listen to audio clips from the original soundtrack here and a version by Andy Williams.
Song of the Day: Days of Wine and Roses features the stellar music of Henry Mancini and the poetic lyrics of Johnny Mercer. This great American standard was the 1962 Academy Award Winner for Best Song. Listen to audio clips of versions by Frank Sinatra, Andy Williams, Tony Bennett with pianist Bill Evans, Bill Evans and harmonica player Toots Thielmans, guitarist Wes Montgomery, and Monica Mancini (Henry's daughter).
Song of the Day: Mona Lisa, music by Ray Evans, lyrics by Jay Livingston, from the film "Captain Carey, USA" won the 1950 Academy Award for Best Song. In the history of the Oscars, it was the first award-winning song from a nonmusical film. Listen to an audio clip from the definitive version of this song by Nat King Cole. Also check out an audio clip from Conway Twitty (thanks Jeff!).
Song of the Day: It's Magic, music by Jule Styne, lyrics by Sammy Cahn, was sung by Doris Day in her film debut, "Romance on the High Seas." The song was nominated for a 1948 Academy Award for Best Song. Listen to audio clips from Doris Day, Tony Martin, Carmen McRae, and Sarah Vaughan.
Song of the Day: My Shining Hour, music by Harold Arlen, lyrics by Johnny Mercer, from the film "The Sky's the Limit," was nominated for a 1943 Academy Award for Best Song. One of my favorite swinging versions is by jazz vocalist Betty Carter (from a live album, "Round Midnight"). Listen to audio clips of versions by Frank Sinatra, Ella Fitzgerald, saxophonist Eric Alexander, and guitarist Howard Alden.
Song of the Day: Dearly Beloved, music by Jerome Kern, lyrics by Johnny Mercer, was nominated for a 1942 Academy Award for Best Song from the film "You Were Never Lovelier." My brother, jazz guitarist Carl Barry, recorded this song on his first album. Listen to audio clips from Fred Astaire (who starred in the film), Dinah Shore, and, for jazz guitar fans, the great Wes Montgomery.
Song of the Day: When You Wish Upon a Star (instrumental audio clip at that link), music by Leigh Harline, lyrics by Ned Washington, from the Disney film, "Pinocchio," won the 1940 Academy Award for Best Song. In the film, it was performed by Jiminy Cricket (the voice of Cliff Edwards, audio clip here). Listen also to audio clips by Linda Ronstadt and Bill Evans, with Freddie Hubbard and Jim Hall.
Song of the Day: Change Partners, words and music by Irving Berlin, was nominated for a 1938 Academy Award for Best Song, from the Fred Astaire-Ginger Rogers film "Carefree." Listen to an audio clip of a lovely, "carefree" bossa nova rendition by Frank Sinatra and Antonio Carlos Jobim.
Song of the Day: Ben-Hur ("Friendship") [audio clip at that link], music by Miklos Rozsa, continues an annual tradition, in which I feature a composition from my all-time favorite soundtrack. I pick this stellar theme today in celebration of my own birthday and in celebration of my friends, those who have given me their love and support over the past year, in good times and in very difficult times too. Today also begins my annual salute to film music. This year, instead of focusing on selections from my favorite film scores, like today's entry, I will focus on cinematic songs. From tomorrow until the Oscars on March 5, 2006, I will highlight some of my favorite songs from the silver screen, taking a chronological trip down memory lane.
Song of the Day: Nessun Dorma, an aria composed by Giacomo Puccini, with librettists Giuseppe Adami and Renato Simoni, for the opera, "Turandot," has been sung by many great tenors. Listen to an audio clip from Luciano Pavarotti, who performed the piece for the XX Winter Olympics Opening Ceremony.
Song of the Day: Another Part of Me, music and lyrics by Michael Jackson, is a pop-funk midtempo dance track. Though it was one of an armful of hits from the album, "Bad," it actually made an Epcot debut as part of a 3D short film, "Captain Eo," starring Jackson and Angelica Houston, and directed by Francis Ford Coppola. Listen to an audio clip here.
Song of the Day: I've Got a Crush on You, music by George Gershwin, lyrics by Ira Gershwin, is one of the great standards of the American songbook. It has been recorded by countless artists through the years. It was covered recently by Rod Stewart and Diana Ross (though a November 12, 2005 Billboard review said that the duet "meshes Stewart's burlap delivery with a razor-thin satiny performance from Ross. A more unlikely pairing would challenge the imaginationand that is no compliment. Every variable of this effort is an assault on good taste, like serving Pabst with brie." Ouch.) Listen to audio clips of recordings by Dinah Washington, Sarah Vaughan, and Ella Fitzgerald (each of these features the intro), and by Frank Sinatra and Barbra Streisand. Moving from songs with a moon motif, I wish all the honeymooners and romantics out there (including my very own "sweetie pie") a Happy Valentine's Day.
Song of the Day: Sister Moon, written and recorded by Sting, is a sequel of sorts to "Moon Over Bourbon Street." It is another moon song with a nice bluesy feel. Listen to audio clips of Sting solo, a jazzier version featuring Sting with Herbie Hancock, and a sultry take by Vanessa Williams with Sting on background vocals and Toots Thielemans on harmonica.
Song of the Day: Moon Over Bourbon Street, written and recorded by Sting, was an homage to Anne Rice's novel, "Interview with a Vampire." Listen to an audio clip here, and enjoy the Full Snow Moon tonight. Indeed, we are a bit full of snow right now due to the NYC Blizzard of '06, which keeps on comin' ...
Song of the Day: Spank, words and music by Ronald L. Smith, was recorded by Jimmy "Bo" Horne. It was one of a multitude of classic dance tracks mixed to perfection during the XX Winter Olympics Opening Ceremonies in Torino, Italy last night. Leave it to my Italian paisans to stage a "Parade of Nations" as if it were one huge disco party. And many of the featured songs can be found on my list of favorites, including today's pick, a huge dance hit from 1979. Listen to audio clips of the irresistible original version and a remixed version as well.
Song of the Day: The Pink Panther Theme, composed by Henry Mancini, is one of my favorite jazzy film themes of all time. It can be heard in the original film version and in subsequent sequels, cartoons, and the 2006 remake, starring Steve Martin, opening today. The song won Grammy Awards for Best Instrumental Composition, Performance, and Arrangement in 1964. Listen to audio clips (at title links) from the "Pink Panther" and "Ultimate Pink Panther" soundtracks and another from "Ultimate Mancini," featuring Plas Johnson on tenor sax, Joey DeFrancesco on organ, and Gary Burton on vibraphone.
Song of the Day: Superstition, written and performed by Stevie Wonder, went to #1 on the Billboard chart in 1973. It's classic Stevie. Listen to an audio clip here. And listen also to an audio clip of a great Jeff Beck version (thanks Billy!).
Song of the Day: Too Turned On, words and music by Alexandra Forbes, is a hot sleaze-beat 1985 dance track recorded by Brooklyn-born Alisha. Listen to an audio clip here.
Song of the Day: Don't You Want My Love, words and music by Aldo Nova, was recorded by Nicole (actually Nicole J. McCloud). It has the same title as yesterday's song, but it's a different composition. This hot dance track was featured on the soundtrack of the 1986 film "Ruthless People." Listen to an audio clip of a 2002 remix. Back in my DJ days, I'd create my own steamy remix of this song by interweaving its "dub version" to keep the dance floor jammed.
Song of the Day: Don't You Want My Love (audio clip at that link) is a disco stomper sung by Debbie Jacobs, with words and music by Paul Sabu. It was also recorded by Rosabel, featuring Debbie Jacobs (audio clip at that link).
Song of the Day: Artistry in Rhythm was a signature tune for the progressive big band sounds of Stan Kenton. Listen here to an audio clip of this classic Kenton tune.
Song of the Day: Nocturne No. 2 in E-Flat, Op. 9 (audio clip at that link) was composed by Frederic Chopin. Listen also to an audio clip of a sensitive rendition by Claudio Arrau.
Song of the Day: Romeo and Juliet ("Love Theme"), composed by Piotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, remains among his most recognizable and lovely works. Listen to an audio clip here.
Song of the Day: Cherokee features the words and music of Ray Noble. Listen to audio clips of versions by Charlie Barnet and His Orchestra, Johnny Smith and Stan Getz, and an early bop adventure by Charlie Parker. As an aside, the Cherokee word for "Groundhog" is "Ogana". Happy Groundhog Day! (Punxsutawney Phil tells us six more weeks of winter... but Staten Island Chuck disagrees... )
Song of the Day: January, February, words and music by Andy "Panda" Tripoli and "Latin Rascals" Tony Moran and Albert Cabrera, as recorded by Tina B at "117 Heartbeats Per Minute." It's a terrific freestyle dance hit. Listen to an audio clip here.
Song of the Day: Be My Love, music by Nicholas Brodszky, lyrics by Sammy Cahn, is a 1950 Academy Award-nominated song from the film "The Toast of New Orleans," starring Mario Lanza, today's birthday boy. Listen to an audio clip here. And take a look at today's announced "Best Song" Oscar nominees for the 78th Annual Academy Awards here.
Song of the Day: Down the Line, composed and performed by jazz guitarist Jim Hall, appears on his album, "Commitment." Like pianist Bill Evans once did in "Conversations with Myself," Hall actually overdubs his own guitar comps and solos on both acoustic and electric instruments. It is a tour de force performance. No audio clips are available on the web. Darn.
Song of the Day: Mesmerized is credited to a dozen writers, including the one who performs it with R&B gusto: Faith Evans. I especially love the Freemasons dance mix. View the video and listen to various full-length remixes of this hot dance track here.
Song of the Day: Violin Concerto in D (Op. 77), composed by Johannes Brahms, is a wonderful orchestral piece. I especially love the Third Movement. Listen to an audio clip featuring the great Jascha Heifetz.
Song of the Day: Symphony No. 40 in G Minor, composed by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, features one of the most familiar classical themes in its First Movement. Listen here to audio clips of all four movements, in a recording featuring the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra, conducted by the great Leonard Bernstein. And Happy 250th Birthday to Mozart!
I've often told friends and correspondents that I am not a blogger. I am a writer and an editor who happens to blog occasionally. Even the name of this blog was born of a belief that it was "Not A Blog," though it has quite clearly evolved into one. It was for that reason that I altered the name of the blog subtly, some time ago, closing the spaces in its title and proclaiming it "Notablog."
I know there are many bloggers out there who comment on the events of the day ... sometimes on the events of the hour ... quite regularly. But I must admit that this sort of thing never truly interested me. How many times can I fulminate over this or that trend in domestic politics or foreign policy? How many times can I express my disgust with the Bush administration, while having equal animosity toward its Democratic "opponents"? How many times can I repeat the mantra that cultural change is a precursor to fundamental political change and that, for example, when you embrace democracy without certain cultural preconditions, you get majoritarian results in the Middle East that empower and legitimize theocratic, fundamentalist, and/or militant forces?
And so on, and so on ...
Though I don't post daily discussions on fiery political topics and substantive philosophical and ideological issues, I just don't see the usefulness of repeating myself over and over and over again about the same stuff day-in, day-out. And if I did, I'd get no other work done!
So, in its place, you get a "Song of the Day," that has run daily since September 1, 2004, except when I dimmed the lights for three days after my dog Blondie's passing. Yeah, you still get my thoughts on radical politics and my occasional fulminations, you still get articles and announcements, but, to paraphrase Emma Goldman: If I can't dance or sing, I want no part of the revolution.
Though I love engagement and participating in dialogue, I am curiously autocratic where my "Songs of the Day" are concerned: I continue the policy of closing those selections to all discussion because my choices are not up for debate. Yes, I can enjoy discussing the historical background of a song and the virtues or vices of a particular rendition, or even a particular artist or composer, and I do welcome private notes from Notablog readers on such topics. But I think it would be terribly counterproductive and awfully time-consuming to engage in a constant public reaffirmation of my musical tastes, which are quite eclectic, as Notablog readers regularly note. (They match my intellectual tastes, which are equally eclectic, since I've learned from the left, right, and center...) So, if you don't like my songs, or a particular song, fine. Get your own blog and make your own list! :)
In the meanwhile, if you don't see any non-Song entry posted on a given day, be sure to check out the lively comments pages. For example, the discussion of "Brokeback Mountain" continues, and should pick up steam as we enter Oscar season. I welcome additional comments on this and on any other subject open to reader input.
I should also state that I get lots of private email and I do answer every letter I receive. It may take me time, but I get to every note. And many of those emails are worthy of longer blog posts. But I treat private correspondence as personal, and unless I ask permission, readers won't see their private thoughts on public display here.
Occasionally, however, I get an email whose topic might benefit readers more generally. I hope to publish a few of these correspondences soon enough, including one later today on Rand studies.
So, for now, I just want to thank all of you for your loyal readership and your continuing personal support.
Comments welcome.
Song of the Day: Behind These Hazel Eyes features the words and music of Martin Sandberg, Lukasz Gottwald, and Kelly Clarkson, the first "American Idol" winner, who also performs the song. (And, yes, I've been watching the fifth season of the talent show.) This song has been played so much that it essentially grew on me. Big time. I now sing along when I hear it on the car radio. Listen to an audio clip here.
Song of the Day: Vivo Sonhando was written by one of my favorite composers of all time, Antonio Carlos Jobim, who is our birthday boy today. The song is a melodic highlight from one of my favorite albums of all time: "Getz/Gilberto" (audio clip at that link).
Song of the Day: Poor Butterfly, words and music by John Golden and Raymond Hubbell, made its debut in the 1916 Broadway production "The Big Show." Listen to audio clips of this lovely song by Sarah Vaughan and Carmen McRae (who tributes Sassy), and a Sinatra-Ellington midtempo collaboration.
Song of the Day: Opus One, words and music by Sy Oliver and Sid Garris, has been recorded in a swingin' Big Band version by Tommy Dorsey and in a hit vocal version by the Mills Brothers (audio clips at those links).
Song of the Day: I Wish, written and performed by Stevie Wonder, went to to #1 on the Billboard chart on this date in 1977. His live performances of this song are the best, but the recorded version is terrific too. Listen to an audio clip here of the original recording.
Song of the Day: This House is Not a Home, words and music by Dee Robert and Peter Monk, was first recorded by Nicole J. McCloud (audio clip at that link). I adore the recent version by Deborah Cox, one of my favorite contemporary pop/dance/R&B singers. Listen to an audio clip of her version here (though my favorite mix is the Tony Moran Anthem remix).
Song of the Day: I Wanna Be Loved features the words of Billy Rose and Eddie Heyman and the music of Johnny Green. My favorite versions of this song are by Billy Eckstine and Dinah Washington (audio clips at those links).
Song of the Day: (You Are My) All and All was written and performed by Joyce Sims. I once heard a live remix of this song at a dance club called Bentley's in Manhattan, and was utterly astounded by the DJ's skill. It was inspiring to me, as I was still DJ'ing parties back then in 1986. Listen to audio clips of various remixes of this percolating freestyle dance track here.
Song of the Day: In the Name of Love, words and music by Joe Leeway and Tom Bailey of the Thompson Twins, was a #1 dance hit in 1982. Same title as yesterday's song, but a very different end-product. Listen to an audio clip here.
Song of the Day: In the Name of Love features the words and music of R. Williams and Sharon Redd, who performs this memorable Prelude dance track. Listen to audio clips here and here.
Song of the Day: Avalon features the music of Vincent Rose and the lyrics of G. "Buddy" DeSylva and Al Jolson, who had a huge hit with it in 1920, as did Benny Goodman in 1937. And on this date, in 1938, Benny Goodman performed this tune with his classic quartet, live, on stage, in the famous Carnegie Hall concert. Given the fact that today also happens to be Martin Luther King Day, it is all the more appropriate to celebrate the Goodman legacy in music. For years, Goodman featured both black players and white players in his various bands; a person's race mattered not. All that mattered was the person's ability to make great music. Goodman's Carnegie Hall concert continued his policy of racial integration in jazz. As for the history of this particular tune: it includes a bit of litigation. In 1921, Puccini actually won a suit against the writers, claiming that the melody was derived from "E Lucevan le Stelle." Listen to audio clips from Al Jolson, the original swingin' recorded version by the Benny Goodman Quartet, and a blazin' Natalie Cole rendition.
Song of the Day: Bluesette features the words of Jean "Toots" Thielemans and the music of Norman Gimbel. Thielmans first recorded this song whistling in unison with his guitar lines. Thielemans is a consummate musician, and my favorite jazz harmonica player too. Listen to audio clips of this song recorded by the Ray Charles Singers (aka Charles Raymond Offenberg), Mel Torme, and Thielemans himself (a live clip here as well).
Song of the Day: St. Louis Blues, words and music by W. C. Handy, is one of the great American classics. So many renditions to choose from, but I love a two-part version by Billy Eckstine. Check out also versions by Bessie Smith, Louis Armstrong, and Benny Goodman. And also check out an audio clip of a small band version featuring vibes player Johnny Lytle (thanks Jeff!).
Song of the Day: Every Day I Have the Blues, words and music by Peter Chatman (aka Memphis Slim), has been recorded by many artists. I love the classic Joe Williams-Count Basie recording (an all-too-brief audio clip can be found here), but I also love another Joe Williams version, which uses the bass line of "All Blues." Listen to an audio clip here. And read more about the first recordings of the song as "Nobody Loves Me."
Song of the Day: All Blues, composed by Miles Davis, is from one of my favorite jazz albums of all time: "Kind of Blue." After "Blue Suede Shoes" and a Big Blue loss, I'll be in Blue for a few days. This classic features such players as Cannonball Adderley, John Coltrane, and the great Bill Evans, who contributed much to the modal approach to jazz featured on this recording. Listen to audio clips here and here.
Song of the Day: Blue Suede Shoes was composed and performed by Carl Perkins (audio clip at that link). Today, however, I highlight my favorite version of this song, recorded by The King, birthday boy Elvis Presley. Listen to an audio clip of this early rock and roll classic here.
Song of the Day: Jesu, Joy of Man's Desiring (Cantata No. 147), composed by Johann Sebastian Bach, closes out this year's seasonal favorites, which began here. Listen to audio clips of the Mormon Tabernacle Choir and Josh Groban with Lili Haydn. Merry Christmas to all my Russian friends!
Song of the Day: Dead End Street features the words and music of D. Axelrod and B. Raleigh, with a gritty monologue by Lou Rawls, who performs the tune to soul perfection. When this Classic 45 came out, I took an instant liking to it because Lou Rawls referred to the wind as "The Hawk," a phrase my family had used for years. Rawls won the 1967 Grammy Award for "Best Rhythm and Blues Solo Vocal Performance, Male" for this recording. Sadly, the three-time Grammy winner passed away today. Listen to audio clips of the monologue and song here.
Song of the Day: Popsicle Toes features the music, lyrics, and recorded performance of Michael Franks. It's not, strictly speaking, a "seasonal favorite," though it is in keeping with the temperature around these parts at this time of year! The song has also been recorded by Diana Krall and the Manhattan Transfer (audio clips at those links). But no version is as cute, clever, jazzy, and oh so sexy as the one featured on the Franks album, "The Art of Tea" (audio clip at that link). "I know today's your birthday," hot stuff! Much love and affection, happiness and health, always ...
Song of the Day: Ben-Hur ("Star of Bethelehem"/"Adoration of the Magi"), composed by the great Miklos Rozsa, is perfect on the eve of the Epiphany. From my favorite movie, the 1959 version of "Ben-Hur," these selections can be sampled from the soundtrack album here.
Song of the Day: Joy to the World (audio clip at that link) is a truly joyful carol, with words by Isaac Watts and music derived from George Frederick Handel ("Antioch"), arranged by Lowell Mason. Listen to audio clips from versions by Joan Sutherland, Andy Williams, Ella Fitzgerald, Perry Como, Nat King Cole, and Mario Lanza.
Song of the Day: It's Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas, a spirited holiday song written by Meredith Willson, made its debut in 1951. Listen to audio clips of various renditions: Perry Como and the Fontane Sisters, Johnny Mathis, and Dionne Warwick. Also check out the audio clip at the link for "Pine Cones and Holly Berries," from the original 1963 Broadway cast album for "Here's Love." Thanks Eric!
Song of the Day: Adeste Fidelis (O Come All Ye Faithful) (audio clip at that link) features the Latin words and music of John Francis Wade, with an English translation by Frederick Oakeley. Listen to audio clips of recordings of this uplifting melody by Celine Dion, Bing Crosby, Nat King Cole, Luciano Pavarotti, Mario Lanza, and the Mormon Tabernacle Choir.
Song of the Day: Greek New Year Song is a traditional tune sung in many Greek households on this day. An audio clip of a "New Agey" version of it can be found here, by pianist George Skaroulis. It marks not only New Year's Day, but the feast of St. Basil the Great (Agios Vassilis), one of the saints of the Greek Orthodox Church in which I was baptized: The Three Hierarchs Church, founded by my maternal grandfather (the paternal side is Sicilian): the Rev. Vasilios P. Michalopoulos. There is currently a beautiful concrete monument to him in front of the church. It would have been his "name day" today, and it's my sister's name day too (Elizabeth, derived from Vasiliki). A Happy, Healthy, and Prosperous New Year! Chronia Polla!
Song of the Day: Same Old Lang Syne is a melancholy song, written and performed by Dan Fogelberg. The song features a saxophone solo by the great (and, sadly, ailing) Michael Brecker, who takes his cue from the classic anthem of old. Listen to an audio clip here. And a Happy New Year's Eve!
Song of the Day: Angels We Have Heard on High (Les Anges dans nos Campagnes) (audio clip at that link) is a traditional French Christmas carol, whose words were translated into English by James Chadwick. Listen to audio clips of renditions performed by the Mormon Tabernacle Choir and the Caribbean Jazz Project.
Song of the Day: Good King Wenceslas (audio clip at that link) features words by John Mason Neale, who used the melody of "Tempus Adest Floridum" ("Spring has Unwrapped Her Flowers") a thirteenth-century Latin carol. Listen to audio clips by Mel Torme, Loreena McKennitt, and the Harry Simeone Chorale.
Song of the Day: The Chipmunk Song (Christmas Don't Be Late) features the music and lyrics of Ross Bagdasarian, also known as David Seville and was recorded with Alvin and the Chipmunks. It brings back cheerful memories of childhood. It still makes me chuckle. Listen to an audio clip here.
Song of the Day: Jingle Bells was written by Minister James Pierpoint. It has been recorded by so many artists through the years, including Mel Torme, Ella Fitzgerald, Diana Krall (here too!), and, my favorite finger-poppin' version by Natalie Cole (audio clips at links).
Song of the Day: Christmas Time is Here was composed and performed by the ever-recognizable pianist Vince Guaraldi. It has touched my heart from the first time I heard it on "A Charlie Brown Christmas." Listen to instrumental and vocal renditions from the soundtrack here. Also check out audio clips from lovely versions by Diane Reeves, Mel Torme, and Brian McKnight, who is featured on a tribute album in honor of the 40th anniversary of the wonderful Peanuts cartoon. Also listen to another jazz instrumental rendering by the Airmen of Note (the premier jazz ensemble of the United States Air Force).
Song of the Day: The First Noel is an English composition of unknown origin, which was first published in 1833. I especially love a Nat King Cole version of this holiday favorite (audio clip at that link). Listen also to an audio clip by Ol' Blue Eyes. Merry Christmas to All! Happy Holidays!!! And Happy Name Day to Me!
Song of the Day: King of Kings ("Road to Bethlehem"/"The Nativity"), composed by the great Miklos Rozsa, is one of the most beautiful film score renderings of the birth of Christ. Listen to an audio clip from the soundtrack album here, and from another album here; the latter clip captures briefly the loveliness of the Nativity theme.
Song of the Day: Babes in Toyland (selections), music composed by Victor Herbert, book and lyrics by Glen MacDonough, opened on Broadway in 1903. It is another charming seasonal favorite. From its opening overture to the "Toyland" centerpiece and the "March of the Toys," the themes of this Herbert operetta always leave a lump in my throat. I first heard these themes as a child when I saw the classic Laurel and Hardy 1934 film, "March of the Wooden Soldiers." Listen to audio clips from the score here and here.
Song of the Day: The Nutcracker (selections), composed by Piotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, is a wonderful seasonal favorite. From "Marche Miniature" to the Russian, Arabian, and Chinese Dances to the "Waltz of the Flowers" to the "Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy" and of the "Reed Pipes," this great ballet has been heard the world over. Its themes have been heard on the big screen too, in films such as "Fantasia" and "Pocketful of Miracles." Listen to audio clips from a grand rendition of the suite by Leonard Bernstein and the New York Philharmonic and to clips from the whole brilliant ballet performed by the Kirov Orchestra.
Song of the Day: Greensleeves, a traditional English ballad with no known composer, is said to have been written by King Henry VIII. Listen to a rendition by the Heavenly Harpist. My favorite version remains a playful one by jazz guitarist Chuck Wayne, whose recorded version for his superb album, "Tapestry," features Chuck on a very jazzy banjo. This seasonal favorite is in keeping with the day: Happy Winter Solstice! After today, the light begins its march back toward summer in the Northern Hemisphere! (So, uh, Happy Summer to my Southern Hemisphere friends...) Today also begins my annual 12+ days of Christmas songs and seasonal favorites. (Last year's list was kicked off here and here.)
Song of the Day: Besame Mucho (Kiss Me Much), music and Spanish lyrics by Consuelo Velasquez, English lyrics by Sunny Skylar, has been recorded by the likes of Jimmy Dorsey, with vocalists Kitty Kallen and Bob Eberly (audio clip here), the Beatles, and Chris Isaak (audio clip here). My favorite version is by Wes Montgomery on his masterpiece album, "Boss Guitar" (audio clip at that link).
Song of the Day: La Isla Bonita features the words and music by Patrick Leonard, Bruce Gaitsch, and Madonna, who recorded this mid-tempo Latin-flavored '80s pop gem for her album "True Blue" (audio clip at that link).
Song of the Day: Rockin' Robin, words and music credited to Leon Rene and Jenny "Jimmy" Thomas, was first recorded in 1958 by Bobby Day (audio clip at that link). But my favorite version remains the one recorded by a young Michael Jackson. Listen to an audio clip of this finger-poppin' pop hit here.
Song of the Day: When I Fall in Love features the lyrics of Edward Heyman and the music of one of my favorite film score composers: Victor Young. It has been recorded by countless artists, from Doris Day to Rick Astley (audio clips at those links). Among my favorite versions is one by Nat King Cole (audio clip of that version here).
Song of the Day: Fragile was written and recorded by Sting. It is a passionate commentary on human fragility in the face of violence. Listen to an audio clip here.
Song of the Day: Good Morning Heartache, words and music by Ervin M. Drake, Dan Fisher, and Irene Higginbotham, has been recorded by many artists. But the most memorable and poignant version is by Billie Holiday. Listen to an audio clip of that recording here.
Song of the Day: After You've Gone, words and music by Henry Creamer and John Turner Layton, was first published in 1918. It has been recorded by such artists as Al Jolson, Sophie Tucker, and, for the 1942 film "For Me and My Gal," by Judy Garland (audio clips at artist links). But my favorite version remains an instrumental by the Benny Goodman Trio, with Teddy Wilson on piano and Gene Krupa on drums. Listen to a full-length audio clip here.
Song of the Day: Where Am I Going?, music by Cy Coleman, lyrics by Dorothy Fields (2005 marks the centenary year of her birth), is from the classic Broadway musical, "Sweet Charity." I was introduced to this terrific song when my sister-in-law Joanne Barry recorded it for her first album, "This is Me." It has also been recorded by Gwen Verdon (in the original musical), Shirley MacLaine (in the film version), and Barbra Streisand among others (audio clips at those links).
Song of the Day: Too Marvelous for Words, music by Richard Whiting, words by Johnny Mercer, made its debut in the 1937 film, "Ready, Willing and Able." Bobby Connolly was actually nominated for an Oscar for the "Best Dance Direction" for the production number surrounding this song. Having concluded my Ellington tribute, I celebrate the birthday boy, Francis Albert Sinatra who would have turned 90 today (and even Sinatra collaborated with Ellington on an album here; it was Sinatra who, in 1962, arranged a generous Reprise recording contract for Duke). Dubbed the "Chairman of the Board" by the great WNEW-AM New York radio personality, William B. Williams, Sinatra recorded this tune on his classic album, "Songs for Swingin' Lovers" (audio clip at that link).
Song of the Day: Caravan is credited to Duke Ellington, Irving Mills, and Juan Tizol. It was made famous by the Ellington orchestra (audio clips here and here). Among the scores of recordings of this song, my favorite version of this tune remains one recorded by Johnny Pate's orchestra featuring the burning bold boss guitar of Wes Montgomery. Listen to an audio clip of that version here. And so, for now, I conclude my Ellington tribute!
Song of the Day: Don't Get Around Much Anymore, lyrics by Sidney Keith "Bob" Russell, music by Duke Ellington, was originally known instrumentally as "Never No Lament." Listen to audio clips of versions by Oscar Peterson, Ella, and, of course, the Duke himself featuring vocalist Al Hibbler. Listen also to audio clips of the "Never No Lament" instrumental versions of this tune featuring Duke's Jimmy Blanton-Ben Webster Band and a Live at Fargo, North Dakota 1940 version.
Song of the Day: Satin Doll, music by Billy Strayhorn and Duke Ellington, with later added lyrics by Johnny Mercer, is another one of those famous Duke tunes that has been recorded by many artists. Duke performed the tune at his 1969 All-Star White House Tribute in front of President Richard Nixon. Listen to a clip of that live version here. I also love another live version by Carmen McRae, featuring guitar soloist Joe Pass. Listen to an audio clip of that version here. My brother Carl Barry also recorded the song for his first album.
Song of the Day (b): Come Together, words and music by Paul McCartney and John Lennon, was the first Beatles single to go to #1 (in November 1969) as part of a two-sided number one single (with "Something"). It appears on "Abbey Road," the final recorded Beatles album. As we commemorate the 25th anniversary of John Lennon's murder, listen to audio clips of this song recorded by Ike and Tina Turner (who took it to #57 in 1970), Aerosmith (who took it to #23 in 1978), and Michael Jackson (who has performed it in concert as well).
Song of the Day (a): In a Mellow Tone, words and music by Milton Gabler and Duke Ellington, has been recorded in many fine renditions by vocalists and instrumentalists alike, including Ella Fitzgerald, Oscar Peterson, Tony Bennett, Joe Pass, and, of course, the Duke himself (audio clips at artist links).
Song of the Day: Solitude, words and music by Eddie DeLange and Duke Ellington, has a title perfectly matching its melody. Listen to audio clips (at artist links) of versions by the Duke, the Duke with Charles Mingus and Max Roach, Ella and Joe Pass (a 1976 Grammy winner), Stephane Grappelli, classical pianist Jean-Yves Thibaudet, and a midtempo treatment by pianist McCoy Tyner.
Song of the Day: I Got it Bad (And That Ain't Good), words and music by Paul Francis Webster and Duke Ellington, is another classic American ballad. Listen to an audio clip of one sample Duke recording here, which features the vocals of Ivie Anderson. I love a version of this song by my sister-in law Joanne Barry. Check out audio clips of Ella (doing the rarely heard introduction), Diane Reeves, Nat King Cole, and a Duke-tribute version in the style of the Count Basie Band.
Song of the Day: Sophisticated Lady features the words and music of Mitchell Parish, Irving Mills, and Duke Ellington. The Duke recorded this classic song many times; listen to audio clips here and here. Touching and tender, it has also been recorded by countless vocalists. Listen to audio clips from Ella and Sassy. And for jazz guitar fans, check out clips from Johnny Smith and Joe Pass.
Song of the Day: It Don't Mean a Thing (If it Ain't Got That Swing), music by Duke Ellington, lyrics by Irving Mills, is one of the great Ellington classics. On this date in 1927, the Duke opened at the Cotton Club, "one of the most celebrated premieres in American music" history. Thus begins our 7+ days of Duke Tributes (audio clip of this song at that link). And for a change of pace from the Ellington version, listen to an audio clip of one of Ella's blazing versions here.
Song of the Day: Jaguar was composed by the great jazz guitarist Johnny Smith, who also performed the piece with a terrific small ensemble that included the immortal jazz saxophonist Stan Getz. I met Smith when my brother Carl Barry participated in a wonderful jazz guitar tribute to him back in 1999. Listen to an audio clip of the fleet-of-finger smooth bop tune here.
Song of the Day: Also Sprach Zarathustra, composed by Richard Strauss, was made famous when its introduction was used as the opening theme music to the 1968 Stanley Kubrick-directed film, "2001: A Space Odyssey." It is painted in bold musical strokes, a "tone poem for large orchestra" that was inspired by Friedrich Nietzsche's Thus Spake Zarathustra. Listen to audio clips from the work here.
Song of the Day: My Cherie Amour is credited to Henry Cosby, Sylvia Moy, and the guy who made it a signature tune: Stevie Wonder. Listen to an audio clip of this sweet favorite here.
Song of the Day: Warsaw Concerto, composed by Richard Addinsell, was featured in the 1941 film "Dangerous Moonlight." I remember being a bit upset when somebody said of this piece that it was all "sound and fury" signifying nothing. Whatever. I loved it when I first heard it as a kid, and enjoyed it even more when I saw Richard Carpenter perform it on TV with the Boston Pops Orchestra in 1974. It was among the very first orchestral pieces I'd ever heard and it remains a sentimental favorite. Listen to an audio clip here of a recording by Jean-Yves Thibaudet.
Song of the Day: Cotton Tail (chord changes at that link) was composed by Edward Kennedy "Duke" Ellington, but "vocalese" lyrics were added later by J. Hendricks of Lambert, Hendricks, and Ross (audio clip here). It was recorded in a classic rendition by the Duke (listen to an audio clip here) and also in a Duke session with three violinists (Stephane Grappelli, Svend Asmussen, and Ray Nance). (Stay tuned for a Mega-Duke Tribute, coming up in December.) I also love a Wes Montgomery blazing guitar version; listen to an audio clip of that rendition here.
Song of the Day: Touch, words and music by Pharrel Williams of the Neptunes, is performed to smoldering perfection by Omarion (video clip available at that site). I was first turned on to the track when I saw it performed, in dance, on the hot Summer 2005 Fox talent show, "So You Think You Can Dance," which gave its top award to its most versatile dancer: Nick Lazzarini. Listen to an audio clip of the song here.
Song of the Day: Scheherazade is a symphonic suite based on "A Thousand and One Arabian Nights" by Nikolay Andreyevich Rimsky-Korsakov. Listen here to audio clips from the suite recorded by the London Philharmonic Orchestra, featuring Joakim Svenheden.
Song of the Day: Let's Dance (audio clip at that link) is credited to Fanny Baldridge, Gregory Stone, and Joseph Bonime. But it is actually adapted from "An Invitation to the Dance," composed by Carl Maria Von Weber and orchestrated by Hector Berlioz (listen to an audio clip here). It became the swing theme song of the Benny Goodman Orchestra for the Saturday night NBC radio dance program, "Let's Dance."
Song of the Day: Vogue features the words and music of the remixer and producer Shep Pettibone and pop icon Madonna, who recorded the song. This dance track, bathed in a pop-house beat, captures the once-underground phenomenon of "voguing." In her "rap," Madonna mentions many great stars who "strike a pose ... on the cover of a magazine," including the Yankee Clipper, [Joe] DiMaggio, who was born on this day in 1914. Listen to audio clips of several versions of this song here.
Song of the Day: Thanks for the Memory, music by Ralph Rainger, lyrics by Leo Robin, is from the film "The Big Broadcast of 1938," where it was introduced by Shirley Ross and Bob Hope. Awarded the 1938 Academy Award for Best Song, it became the signature tune of Bob Hope. Listen to an audio clip of this classic song from its original film soundtrack here. And a Healthy and Happy Thanksgiving to All!
Song of the Day: Emerge, composed by Lester Robertson, was first featured on a great Gerald Wilson Big Band album, "Moment of Truth." Steeped in brilliant counterpoint, the recording features such soloists as tenor saxophonist Harold Land and pianist Jack Wilson. Listen to an audio clip of this fine instrumental track here.
Song of the Day: Fur Elise (aka "Bagatelle in A Minor"), composed by Ludwig van Beethoven, is a familiar and tender classical theme. Listen to this audio clip of a version by Balazs Szokolay. And, yes, I was first exposed to this as a child... when I saw Schroeder play it on "A Charlie Brown Christmas" (audio clips at those links).
Song of the Day: Goody Goody, lyrics by Johnny Mercer, music by Matty Malneck, is, along with such compositions as "I Wanna Be Around," one of the Classic "F*&% You" Songs in the Great American Songbook. Listen to audio clips from two different swingin' Ella Fitzgerald renditions here and here.
Song of the Day: Fever is credited to John Davenport and Eddie Cooley, but Otis Blackwell was actually the chief writer. It has been recorded by Little Willie John, Rita Coolidge, Madonna, and Michael Bublé, but Peggy Lee owns this one (audio clips at each link).
Song of the Day: How Deep is the Ocean is a classic Irving Berlin song that has been recorded by so many artists, including vocalists such as Ella Fitzgerald, Joe Williams, and Diana Krall and instrumentalists such as Bill Evans (here too), Joe Pass, Stan Getz, Ben Webster, and Allan Holdsworth (audio clips at each link).
Song of the Day: Rhapsody in Blue is one of George Gershwin's finest jazz-influenced orchestral compositions. It was initially commissioned by Paul Whiteman's band in 1924, with Gershwin himself on piano (scroll down here to listen to that version). Also listen to an audio clip here of a version recorded by André Previn and the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra. An Andre Kostelanetz recording of this piece (audio clip here) inspired a young Alex Steinweiss to come up with a classic album cover depicting "a small piano under a small street lamp, with a huge silhouette of a city skyline towering behind," as David Hinckley reports. Steinweiss, who hailed from Brooklyn, New York, practically invented album cover art. He also designed another famed album cover for an Oscar Levant recording of this immortal Gershwin composition (see here).
Song of the Day: Tabu (or "Taboo") features the music of Margarita Lecuona and the lyrics of Sidney Keith "Bob" Russell, with an additional writing credit for Al Stillman. It has been recorded by many artists, including the Kronos Quartet (audio clip at that link). But my favorite version is a melodic jazz instrumental featuring guitarist Johnny Smith and saxophonist Stan Getz. Listen to an audio clip of that version here.
Song of the Day: (If You Can't Sing It) You'll Have to Swing It (Mr. Paganini), composed by Sam Coslow, is a signature Ella Fitzgerald tune (listen to an audio clip here). A nice Patti Austin tribute to Ella includes a version of this song too; listen to an audio clip here. Carmen Bradford gives us a terrific version as well; listen to an audio clip here.
For many years, I've been railing against the rise of the religious right as a political and cultural force in this country. Yes, of course: In many ways, that rise has been the effect of a cultural boomerang, a response to the "relativists" on the left. But this does not make fundamentalism any less of a threat.
The fact that the Bush administration has derived so much of its political power from an evangelical base is something that should give pause to all advocates of individual freedom. Quite frankly, it has greatly irritated me that so many people jumped onto the Bush bandwagon, in praise of its "War on Terror," while sweeping aside virtually all considerations of the administration's ties to the religious right.
As I wrote in my article, "Caught Up in the Rapture":
The Bush administration has thus become a focal point for the constellation of two crucial impulses in American politics that seek to remake the world: pietism and neoconservatism. The neocons, who come from a variety of religious backgrounds, trace their intellectual lineage to social democrats and Trotskyites, those who adopted the "God-builder" belief, prevalent in Russian Marxist and Silver Age millennial thought, that a perfect (socialist) society could be constructed as if from an Archimedean standpoint. The neocons may have repudiated Trotskys socialism, but they have simply adopted his constructivism to the project of building democratic nation-states among other groups of warring fundamentalistsin the Middle East.
Bush clearly believes that it is his role as President to change not only American culture but the tribalist cultures of nations abroad in the direction of democratic values. ... For a man who once campaigned against the Clintonistas penchant for nation-building, Bush seems to have made the building of nations and the building of cultures a full-fledged state enterprise. Bushs maximthat "[t]he role of government is to help foster cultural change as well as to protect institutions in our society that are an important part of the culture"is an attempt to use politics as a cultural and religious tool.
The rise of religion has both political and cultural ramifications. Indeed, pop culture is an interesting barometer by which to measure the growing influence of religion on American life.
Today, "Good Morning America" featured an interview with Tim LaHaye and Jerry Jenkins, authors of the immensely successful Left Behind series (which I discuss in my Rapture essay). They stopped in to promote their newest book: The Regime: The Rise of the Antichrist, which is the second of three "prequel" novels to the 12-volume Left Behind collection. These books have sold in excess of 60 million copies over the last decade. This new book comes on the heels of the third film release in the series, "Left Behind: World at War," starring Kirk Cameron. (I liked him better on "Growing Pains.")
The GMA segment focused on the question: "Is the End of the World Coming?" (ABC also publishes an excerpt from The Regime here.)
With a lot of natural disasters in the news, such as tsunamis, hurricanes, tornadoes, and earthquakes, and many human disasters as well, like war and terrorism, everybody, it seems, is worried that the End of Days is near. (If you ask me, I'd tell you to worry more about those human disasters.)
LaHaye argues that this is probably the "stage setting" for the end. But since the Rapture has yet to take place, we're not quite there yet. LaHaye, who is 79, thinks he might live to see it, however.
Jenkins was a bit more conservative in his estimate. He confessed that only God knows when the end will come, and it's "folly" to set a date. "It seems like we're heading toward something," however.
I'll give this much credit to Jenkins: He recognizes that in a pluralistic society, this Rapture thing can be a "divisive" and "offensive" message. Jenkins does not wish to be "condescending or spiteful or hateful" toward those of other faiths, though he does celebrate the fact that Christian fundamentalists are not like the "fundamentalists of other religions [who] become terrorists. You won't see evangelicals ... becoming terrorists because the whole point is people have the right to choose, they have free will, and if they decide to disagree, we still love them and care about them. We just worry."
Well, I can deal with Jenkins's worry. Bottle up your message of pluralism and disagreement, Brother Jenkins, and send it to the jihadists in the Middle East, if you please.
Despite the fact that our homegrown fundamentalists are a lot less lethal than the ones abroad, I have no doubt that I would not wish to live in a society dominated by them politically or culturally. Right now, however, religion is not merely a rising political or cultural force; it is a rising force in marketing and economics as well.
From the TV show "Revelations" to the new writings of Anne Rice, who, as Jason Dixon reminds us, has Left Behind the Vampire Lestat to embrace "Christ the Lord" ... "it seems like we're heading toward something, indeed.
That ol' time religion has even affected the "Material Girl," Madonna, who found Kaballah some time ago. Even Madonna is starting to sound like the preachers of fire and brimstone. As Rush and Molloy report in the New York Daily News:
Once, she told papa not to preach. But now, at 47, Madonna has come down from the mount with a message for you sinners. People "are going to go to hell, if they don't turn from their wicked behavior," the singer proclaims in her new film, "I'm Going to Tell You a Secret." Despite her many homes, the former Material Girl says she has renounced "the material world. The physical world. The world of illusion, that we think is real. We live for it, we're enslaved by it. And it will ultimately be our undoing."
I can't wait for her to start unloading her earthly riches! I can think of a few dialectical projects that need funding.
Rush and Molloy continue:
Reading from Scripture at one point in the film, the mother of twowho won't let her children watch TV or eat ice creamsays, "I refer to an entity called 'The Beast.' I feel I am describing the world that we live in right now." All this seems to have come from her embracing the mystical Jewish teachings of the Kaballah. But it might seem strange to those who remember that the Catholic girl, confirmed as Madonna Louise Ciccone, used to go out of her way to shred the envelope with nose-cone bras and three-way "Sex" shots. Catholic League President William Donohue likes Madonna's new morality: "For her to have this sudden wakeup callthat the kind of behavior for which she is infamous is not salutary for young peopleis refreshing."
But he doesn't like her proclamation, also made in the documentary about her 2004 Re-Invention tour, that "most priests are gay." Donohue adds, "We're glad to see she is no longer with us. Jews will have to make up their own mind about whether they're going to welcome her. Lots of them don't want to." But Madonna is clearly beloved at the Kaballah Center in L.A.
Well, okay, the Catholics don't want her, the Jews are ambivalent. What's a No-Longer-Material-Girl to do?
Release a new album, that's what! Today, in fact! And I like the lead single too!
In the end, you see, much of this can be filed under "Religious Marketing 101." Whether we fear being Left Behind or we just want to Shake Our Behinds on the Dance Floor ... the marketplace is meeting an ever-growing demand for this "product."
And God help us.
Comments welcome.
Song of the Day: Moonlight Serenade features the words and music of Mitchell Parrish and Glenn Miller, the Swing era bandleader who recorded a classic version of this song (audio clip here). Listen also to a vocal rendition by Carly Simon (clip at that link). What better way to mark the night of the Full Beaver Moon!
Song of the Day: Two O'Clock Jump is credited to Count Basie, Harry James, and Benny Goodman. It was a big hit for trumpeter Harry James; listen to audio clips here and here.
Song of the Day: One O'Clock Jump, composed by Count Basie, became the swingin' 12-bar blues anthem of the Basie band. Listen to audio clips of a Basie version and a Benny Goodman version (at those links).
Song of the Day: Satisfaction, composed by Benny Benassi and his cousin Alle, is a "hypnotech" minimalist, dare I say ... monotonous ... dance track, which has burned up the dance floors since its release in 2003. For my long-time DJ sensibilities, it provides many creative electro, techno and house remix possibilities. Listen to, and view, the pulsating "soft core" video here. (I doubt this video would ever be used as an ad for, say, Home Depot, but it might fuel sales in some quarters.)
Song of the Day: Love on My Mind is credited to a number of writers, including those who wrote one of my favorite disco-era songs, "This Time Baby," from which this hot dance track samples. It is performed by the Freemasons, featuring Amanda Wilson (video clip at that link). Listen to various audio clips here.
Song of the Day: Hung Up is credited to Madonna, Stuart Price, and B. Anderson and B. Ulvaeus of ABBA (because of the "Gimme! Gimme! Gimme!" sample). It's the lead single from the new Madonna album, "Confessions on a Dancefloor." Sample aside, something about the recording reminds me of Claudja Barry's "Boogie Woogie Dancin' Shoes." It's nice to have the Material Girl back where she belongs ... in the disco ... though it's not like she ever really left it. Take a look at the full video clip for this infectious dance track here.
Song of the Day: I Got Your Love, words and music by Bruce Roberts and Donna Summer, who performs this song with both intensity and restraint. This hot dance track was heard in 2003 on "Sex and the City," but remains unreleased (except through iTunes). Listen to an audio clip at Summer's Site.
Song of the Day: Skeletons, words and music by Stevie Wonder, is a funk-filled jam that I dedicate to this season's crop of lying politicians, many of whom have "skeletons in [their] closet, itchin' to come outside." Happy Election Day! Listen to an audio clip here.
Song of the Day: Polonaise in A Major ("Military," Op. 40, No. 1) is a composition by Frederic Chopin, famous for its "pomp and glory." Listen to an audio clip here performed by Vladimir Ashkenazy.
Song of the Day: Sidewalks of New York, words and music by Charles B. Lawlor and James W. Blake, is one of the great "New York songs" (audio clip at that link). It's particularly fitting today, on the occasion of the running of the New York City Marathon. It's my tribute to all the runners and all the spectators cheering from the "sidewalks of New York." Listen to a Mel Torme audio clip of this classic city song.
Song of the Day: Nancy Jo (audio clip at that link) is a superb Gerald Wilson composition that made its debut on the classic big bebop band album "Moment of Truth," with fine solos by trumpeter Carmell Jones, saxophonist Harold Land, and guitarist Joe Pass. It has also been recorded for other Wilson projects with stellar musician line-ups: "New York, New Sound" and "State Street Sweet" (audio clips at those links). Also, listen here to some really nice audio clips regarding Wilson's life as a composer and arranger.
Song of the Day: Eine Kleine Nachtmusik (K525, Serenade in G Major) is one of my very favorite Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart compositions. Listen to audio clips here.
Song of the Day: Shake Your Body (Down to the Ground), words and music by Randy Jackson and Michael Jackson, is from a classic Jacksons album, "Destiny." But the "Special Disco Version" remixed by John Luongo (who also remixed "Walk Right Now") as a 1978 12" vinyl release is still, by far, the definitive version of this great dance track. Listen to an audio clip of that remix version here and the original album version here.
Song of the Day: Manhattan, music by Richard Rodgers, lyrics by Lorenz Hart, is a wonderful paean to the City of New York. It was featured in the unproduced 1922 musical "Winkle Town" and in the 1925 production "The Garrick Gaieties." I highlight this song today in honor of conductor Skitch Henderson, who passed away yesterday at the age of 87. Skitch was the first "Tonight Show" bandleader and the founder of the New York Pops. Listen here to an audio clip of Skitch with the New York Pops.
Song of the Day: Take Five was composed by alto saxophonist Paul Desmond, who played this classic cool jazz tune with the Dave Brubeck Quartet. After all those 3/4 waltzes, we move to 5/4 time. It's one of the most recognizable riffs in jazz history. Listen to an audio clip of this stupendous track here.
Song of the Day: Satan Takes a Holiday is a 1917 song composed by Larry Clinton. It was recorded in a jazzy rendition by the Tommy Dorsey orchestra. Jazz was often condemned as the Devil's Music, after all. I loved hearing my Uncle Sam play this one on violin when I was a kid. Just in time for Halloween, listen to an audio clip of this spooky favorite here. And a Happy Halloween to one and all.
Song of the Day: Lydia ("Waltz") was composed by Miklos Rozsa, as part of the Academy Award-nominated score for the 1941 film, "Lydia," starring Merle Oberon and Joseph Cotten. It can be heard as part of a suite for solo piano, featuring soloist Albert Dominguez, on this soundtrack album.
Song of the Day: Time After Time ("Time Machine Waltz"), composed by Miklos Rozsa, is one of the composer's most melodic screen waltzes. It is played by pianist Eric Parkin on the soundtrack album.
Song of the Day: The Skaters' Waltz (Op. 183), composed by Emile Waldteufel, offers a lovely, graceful theme. Listen to audio clips here and here.
Song of the Day (b): Chicago (That Toddlin' Town) features the words and music of Fred Fischer, a popular Tin Pan Alley composer. It's my musical tribute to the Chicago White Sox for winning their first World Series Championship since 1917. They swept the Boston Red Sox and the Houston Astros, and took 11 out of 12 in the postseason. Shoeless Joe? Dirty Black Sox? After the Red Sox, there are no more curses in baseball. Maybe the Chicago Cubs are next! Or maybe these triumphs are only possible for teams named after different kinds of, uh, socks. Either way, listen here to an audio clip of Frank Sinatra singing this timeless tune.
Song of the Day (a): Waltz in C-Sharp Minor (Op. 64, No. 2) (full length theme at that link) is from Movement 9 of "Les Sylphides" by Frédéric Chopin. Listen also to another audio clip with pianist Vladimir Ashkenazy.
Song of the Day: Blue Danube Waltz is a very famous waltz composed by Johann Strauss, Jr. It was used to classic effect in the Stanley Kubrick-directed 1968 film, "2001: A Space Odyssey." Listen to an audio clip here.
Song of the Day: Vienna Blood Waltz (Op. 354) (audio clip at that link) was composed by Johann Strauss, Jr., the Waltz King, who was born 180 years ago today. In honor of Strauss, I'll spend the next week focused on a few of my favorite waltzes.
Song of the Day: But Beautiful, music by Jimmy Van Heusen, lyrics by Johnny Burke, was first sung by Bing Crosby (audio clip at that link) in the 1947 film "Road to Rio." Today, however, I remember this lovely American standard as interpreted by the late vocalist-pianist Shirley Horn, who died on October 20, 2005. Listen to an audio clip of one of her tender renditions here.
Song of the Day: Maid with the Flaxen Hair (aka Girl with the Flaxen Hair; Prelude for Piano, L. 117/8 No. 08) is a classic Claude Debussy composition. (This composition is not to be confused with the Artie Shaw recording of Eddie Sauter's "Maid with the Flaccid Air," audio clip at that link). Listen to an audio clip of the Debussy composition here, performed by the Boston Pops Orchestra. This expressive Debussy theme has shown up in many films, including the mysterious 1948 movie "Portrait of Jennie" (for which there has also been an homage). I adore especially a beautiful rendition by jazz guitarist Johnny Smith. He's recorded it a number of times; I love the one featured here, but he has an acoustic guitar version that is captured in this audio clip.
Song of the Day: Hungarian Dance No. 5, composed by Johannes Brahms, is my favorite of his lively Hungarian Dances. Listen to an audio clip here (and sample all 21 of them).
Song of the Day: Jailhouse Rock, a Jerry Leiber-Mike Stoller gem, was the first song to debut at #1 on the British singles chart (it went to the top spot again in 2005). Elvis Presley also took it to #1 on the U.S. Billboard chart, for a 7-week run that began on this day in 1957 (it was paired with "Treat Me Nice" on the B-side, which also charted). The song was the title track and highlight production number of Elvis's third film, which opened in theaters also on this day in 1957. Three weeks after the song fell from the top spot, Elvis was drafted into the U.S. army. This song remains one of my all-time favorites in the Presley catalogue; it's a
blues-based burner. Listen to an audio clip here.
Song of the Day: Perdido, music by Juan Tizol, words by Harry Lenk and Ervin Drake, has been recorded by many artists, starting with the great Duke Ellington. Listen here to an audio clip of a version heard at the Duke's 70th birthday back in 1969. Also listen here to a two-part audio clip by saxophonist James Moody. I also love a lyrical version by the Gerald Wilson Big Band (no audio clip available, unfortunately).
Song of the Day: Rock with You, music and lyrics by Rod Temperton, is a smooth, soulful, mid-tempo track featured on the terrific Michael Jackson album "Off the Wall" (audio clip at that link).
Song of the Day: So What the Fuss?, words and music by Stevie Wonder, is from his newly released album: "A Time 2 Love" (audio clip at that link). I've been waiting for this album for a long time. Funky and socially conscious, this song has that Stevie sound, along with Prince on guitar and En Vogue providing background vocals.
Song of the Day: Moonlight in Vermont, words and music by John Blackburn and Karl Suessdorf, is a romantic song for all nights... including tonight, the night of the Full Hunter's Moon. It has been recorded most famously as an instrumental by guitarist Johnny Smith and saxophonist Stan Getz, and vocally by such singers as Sarah Vaughan, Frank Sinatra, and Mel Torme (audio clips at artist links).
Song of the Day: Out of Nowhere, music by Johnny Green, lyrics by Edward Heyman, was Bing Crosby's first #1 hit (in 1931). Listen to a Bing audio clip here, and a nice Artie Shaw big band arrangement here.
Song of the Day: Who Will Buy?, words and music by Lionel Bart, is from the 1963 musical, "Oliver!," where it was performed by Bruce Prochnik (listen to an audio clip here). It was performed by Mark Lester in the 1968 film (audio clip here). I especially like a Russ Kassoff jazz arrangement of this song, performed by Catherine Dupuis (yeah, it has been one of those weeks for Dupuis... see here and here). Listen to this Dupuis audio clip.
Song of the Day: Beginnings features the words and music of Robert Lamm of the group Chicago, from its jazz-rock fusion heyday. It's one of my favorite Chicago tracks; listen to an audio clip here. And for an alternative jazzy take on this classic track, listen to the Russ Kassoff arrangement for Catherine Dupuis at this link.
Song of the Day: You're Everything features the lyrics of Neville Potter and the music of Chick Corea, who first performed this song on his classic "Light as a Feather" album (audio clip at that link). Flora Purim provides the vocals on the original recording. I also really love a recorded version by Catherine Dupuis, from her album, "The Rules of the Road" (audio clip at that link). The Russ Kassoff arrangement takes us on a tour (de force) across the musical map.
Song of the Day: Bill Bailey (Won't You Please Come Home?), words and music by Hughie Cannon, dates back to 1902. It has been played by country and jazz artists alike. Listen to audio clips of a plaintive version by Patsy Cline, a finger-poppin' version by Ella, a swingin' version by Bobby Darin, a Dixieland-Swing version by Pete Fountain, and a collaboration between Ann-Margaret and Al Hirt.
Song of the Day: Por Una Cabeza, written by composer, singer, and actor Carlos Gardel, has been a featured tango in many film scores, including "Scent of a Woman" (audio clip at that link). It was first heard in the 1935 film "Tango Bar" (original film vocal audio clip here) and has also been heard in "True Lies" and "Schindler's List."
Song of the Day: Piano Concerto in A Minor, composed by Edvard Grieg, is an exuberant piece. I especially love the first movement; listen to an audio clip here, featuring pianist Dinu Lipatti.
Song of the Day: Jumpin' at the Woodside (audio clip at that link) as composed and performed by Count Basie (and his Orchestra), is one of the most swingin' hits of the Swing Era. It features the sax sounds of Lester Young too; check out an additional audio clip here.
Song of the Day: That Girl, music, lyrics, and performance by Stevie Wonder, was first featured as a new track on one of his greatest hits collection: "The Original Musiquarium I" (audio clip at that link). From its soulful groove to its soaring harmonica solo, it's one of my favorite Wonder songs.
Song of the Day: Peel Me a Grape (full Diana Krall audio clip at that link) features the music and lyrics of Dave Frishberg. This sexy, jazzy song is performed by singer-pianist Krall on her album "Love Scenes," which features guitarist Russell Malone and bassist Christian McBride.
Song of the Day: If He Walked Into My Life, music and lyrics by Jerry Herman, was featured in the 1966 Broadway musical, "Mame," starring Angela Lansbury. The most memorable recording of it was sung by Eydie Gorme, who received a 1967 Grammy Award for Best Vocal Performance, Female. I could find no audio clip, unfortunately, but it's offered as part of a double album of classics: "Don't Go To Strangers"/"Softly As I Leave You."
Song of the Day: Jersey Bounce, lyrics by Robert Wright (aka Buddy Feyne), music by Bobby Platter, Tiny Bradshaw, and Ed Johnson, is a Big Band Staple. Listen to audio clips of this swinging song by Benny Goodman and Ella Fitzgerald.
Song of the Day: Piano Sonata No. 11 in A Major (also known as Rondo Alla Turca or the Turkish Rondo, listen to midi link), composed by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, is one of those classical piano staples that I've long adored. Listen here to an audio clip of a version recorded by the great Vladimir Horowitz.
Song of the Day: Swan Lake ("Acts I & II Introductions" / "Waltz No. 13") are selections from the great Piotr Tchaikovsky ballet. While this is one stupendous organic whole, I particularly love the Act I and Act II introductions (I first heard the latter as a child in the opening credits of the 1931 Bela Lugosi film version of "Dracula") and the classic "Waltz No. 13." Listen to snippets from the entire ballet starting here.
Song of the Day: Can You Handle It? features the words and music of Willie Lester and Rodney Brown. This classic "Prelude label" dance track was performed by the late Sharon Redd. It was one of those dance classics that has been remixed several times, but never at the expense of its wonderful feel. Listen to an audio clip here.
Song of the Day: Seven Come Eleven (audio clip at that link and here too) is a classic swing tune performed by the guys who composed it: clarinetist Benny Goodman and guitarist Charlie Christian. I saw Goodman perform this with George Benson too in a great TV jazz concert. Check out another audio clip of fine jazz guitar masters at work: Herb Ellis & Joe Pass.
Song of the Day: My One and Only Love, music and lyrics by Guy Wood and Robert Mellin, has been recorded by so many wonderful artists. Listen to audio clips from renditions by Ella Fitzgerald, John Coltrane & Johnny Hartman, Frank Sinatra, Sting, and Carly Simon. One of my favorite instrumental versions is by jazz guitarist Jim Hall (no audio link available, unfortunately).
Song of the Day: Three Little Words, music by Harry Ruby, lyrics by Bert Kalmar, was the title song from the 1950 Fred Astaire-Red Skelton film. But it has shown up on screen many times, going all the way back to the Amos 'n' Andy 1930 film "Check and Double Check," where the song is performed by Duke Ellington and His Orchestra, with Bing Crosby on vocals. Listen to an audio clip of that version here. I adore a live swinging version by Carmen McRae; listen to an audio clip of that version here.
Song of the Day: All This Time, words and music by Jonathan Peters, Richard Bush, and Delsena Walrond, features the vocals of Sylver Logan Sharp. Listen to audio clips from two different remixes of this pumpin' dance track here and here.
Song of the Day: Higher Ground, words, music, and electric performance by Stevie Wonder, is rockin' funk incarnate. Listen to an audio clip here and to a Red Hot Chili Peppers version too.
Song of the Day: Everything I Have is Yours, music by Burton Lane, lyrics by Harold Adamson, was introduced by Joan Crawford and Art Jarrett in the 1933 film "Dancing Lady." It was recorded by singers such as Ruth Etting and Rudy Vallee. Among my favorite versions are those by Billy Eckstine and Sarah Vaughan (audio clips at those links)
Song of the Day: Poinciana (Song of the Tree) features the words of Buddy Bernier and the music of Nat Simon. It has been recorded by many artists from Nat King Cole to Manhattan Transfer (audio clips at those links). When I was a child, I fell in love with a live version by pianist Ahmad Jamal (listen to an audio clip from "Ahmad Jamal at the Pershing: But Not for Me"). I used to call him "Ama-jo" at that young age... and the song gave me more than enough reason to continue my "coffee table" adventures.
Song of the Day: The Peppermint Twist features the words and music of Henry Glover and Joey Dee, who, with his Starliters, took this song to #1 in 1962. When I was about 2 years old, I'd go "round and round" a living room coffee table to this song. It has been a sentimental favorite ever since. Listen to an audio clip here.
Song of the Day: See You in September, music by Sherman Edwards, lyrics by Sid Wayne, was recorded originally by The Tempos (audio clip at that link). But my favorite version is by The Happenings (audio clip at that link). It's the classic return-to-school song: "See you in September, when the summer's through..." The "danger in the summer moon above" has now come to pass. Listen to another audio clip of this melancholy song here.
Song of the Day: Indian Summer, originally entitled "An American Idyll" (audio clip at that link), features the music of Victor Herbert and Al Dubin's lyrics, which were added some 20 years later. Listen to an audio clip of a famous Tommy Dorsey recording of this song (at that link). I love a Jim Hall studio recording of this from the album "Commitment" (considered by some as among the top jazz albums of the past 50 years). Hall also recorded it live with bassist Ron Carter, who states the melody line in an audio clip here. Autumn arrives today, but we can still hope for an Indian Summer.
Song of the Day: September, words and music by Maurice White, Al McKay and Allee Willis, was performed by the funky and fabulous Earth, Wind, and Fire. "Do you remember the 21st night of September?" Well, my brother and sister-in-law do! Happy anniversary, with much love! Listen to an audio clip here.
Song of the Day: I Believe in Love features the music, lyrics, and performance of Paula Cole. As much as I like the original album version (audio clip here), I fell in love with the Jonathan Peters dance mix. It is astounding. Listen to an infuriatingly brief audio clip here.
Song of the Day: Somebody Told Me features the music, lyrics, and performance of The Killers. Post-punk, retro new wave... whatever you call it, this combination of guitar, synths, and beats is irresistible. Go here to listen to an audio clip and to watch a video clip. Check out too the audio clip featured for the album "Hot Fuss."
Song of the Day: The Honeymooners (aka "You're My Greatest Love"), music by Jackie Gleason, lyrics by Bill Templeton, opened this immortal TV comedy. We began our TV theme tribute with The Great One and we close this year's installment with him again. With the Harvest Moon arriving only a few hours ago, listen to an audio clip of this wonderful theme here and here.
Song of the Day: I Love Lucy, music by Eliot Daniel, lyrics by Harold Adamson, is a classic TV theme from a classic show, which starred Lucille Ball and Desi Arnaz. Listen to both vocal and instrumental audio clips here.
Song of the Day: Alfred Hitchcock Presents (aka "Funeral March of a Marionette") was actually adapted from a Charles Gounod composition. TV shows borrow such themes all the time. Listen to an audio clip here.
Song of the Day: Dynasty ("Main Theme"), composed by Bill Conti, announces the patrician excesses of the Carringtons and the Colbys. Listen to an audio clip here and here.
Song of the Day: Mission: Impossible ("Main Theme") is another cool and jazzy opening theme composed by Lalo Schifrin. Listen to an audio clip here.
Song of the Day: The Fugitive ("Main Theme"), composed by Peter Rugolo (with lyrics by Roy Huggins, William Conrad, and Glen Campbell), was just the title track to a haunting score that echoed the existential loneliness and alienation of Dr. Richard Kimble, played to perfection by David Janssen in this television morality drama. One of my favorite themes and scores from one of my all-time favorite series. Listen to an audio clip here and here.
Song of the Day: Hawaii Five-0 ("Main Theme") composed by Mort Stevens, conjures up images of that tropical surfer wave in the opening title sequence. Book 'em, Danno! Murder One! Listen to an audio clip here.
Song of the Day: The Winds of War / War and Remembrance ("Main Title" / "Love Theme"), composed by Bob Cobert, was heard throughout the miniseries versions of the Herman Wouk novels. It is a melancholy, unforgettable theme that graces some of the most poignant, and most harrowing, scenes of these grand productions. Listen to audio clips from the soundtrack here and here. It is in keeping with our TV theme tribute, and appropriate too for a day of remembrance ...
Song of the Day: Mannix ("Title Track"), composed by the prolific Lalo Schifrin, is one of the jazziest main themes to ever grace the TV screen. Listen to an audio clip of several versions of that theme here.
Song of the Day: TheTwilight Zone boasted two distinct main titles and both were wonderful in that "other dimension" sort of way. The original "Main Title," which debuted in Season One, was composed by the great Bernard Herrmann; the alternate theme, which debuted in Season Two and became quite famous, was written by French avant-garde composer Marius Constant. That theme was actually an integration of two of Constant's compositions: "Etrange #3" and "Milieu #2." Episodes of this terrific Rod Serling show were scored by Herrmann, Jerry Goldsmith, Nathan Van Cleave, Fred Steiner, Leonard Rosenman, Jeff Alexander, and Franz Waxman, among others. Listen to audio clips of the main titles and other themes here.
Song of the Day: Star Trek ("Main Title"), composed by Alexander Courage, opened up every episode of the classic sci-fi series. Listen to an audio clip of this theme here. I also like a version by the Maynard Ferguson Big Band (audio clip at that link). [William Shatner performed this theme on the 2005 Emmy Awards telecast with opera star Frederica von Stade.]
Song of the Day: The Jackie Gleason Show (aka "Melancholy Serenade"), composed by "The Great One," Jackie Gleason, for his CBS-TV show, is one of those recognizable television themes. It was a glorious show in its heyday, one that gave birth to classic characters from Reginald Van Gleason III and the Poor Soul to Joe the Bartender and Ralph Kramden. And don't forget the June Taylor Dancers. Gleason was also a composer and music producer. Listen to an audio clip of this theme here. Today kicks off twelve days of favorite TV themes, in anticipation of the Emmy Awards.
Song of the Day: Too Close for Comfort, words and music by George Weiss, Jerry Bock, and Lawrence Holofcener, is from the 1956 musical "Mr. Wonderful." It has been performed by many artists through the years. There have been many swinging versions of this song; for a sampling, listen to audio clips at the following links from Mel Torme, Ella Fitzgerald (here too), Patti Austin, Natalie Cole, and Sammy Davis, Jr.
Song of the Day: Empty Faces (Vera Cruz) features the words and music of Milton Nascimento, Marcio Borges, and Lani Hall. Listen to an audio clip of this song by the great Sarah Vaughan and an instrumental version by guitarist Jim Hall. My sister-in-law, Joanne Barry, does a terrific version of this song on the album, "Embraceable You." It's her birthday... much happiness, health, and love always!
Song of the Day: I Can't Give You Anything But Love, music by Jimmy McHugh, lyrics by Dorothy Fields (the centenary of whose birth was marked in July), has been performed by many artists through the years. It debuted in a 1928 production, "Blackbirds of 1928," the longest-running black musical of the twenties. Listen to a few audio clips from the Quintet of the Hot Club of France, Ella Fitzgerald (which features the lovely introduction), and New Orleans native, Louis Armstrong.
Song of the Day: Signs, produced by The Neptunes, sports an abundance of writing credits: C. Broadus, P. Williams, C. Hugo, L. Simmons, R. Taylor, and Charlie Wilson, from the Gap Band, whose vocals are unmistakable on the track. It can be found on Snoop Dogg's album, "R&G (Rhythm & Gangsta): The Masterpiece," and it also includes some Old Skool-influenced falsetto from Justin Timberlake. All in all, it's a funky throwback. Listen to an audio clip here.
Song of the Day: I Was Made to Love Her is credited to Sylvia Moy, Henry Cosby, Stevie Wonder, and Lulu Hardaway (Wonder's mother). It was the first Stevie Wonder 45 rpm recording that my sister ever bought, and it is one of her favorites till this day. And it's one of my favorites too. Happy birthday to my sister, my friend! Much love, health, and happiness always. Listen to an audio clip here.
Song of the Day: Concerto for Violin and Orchestra, Op. 24, composed by Miklos Rozsa, is one of my favorite Rozsa concert pieces. Listen to audio clips of all three movements from the debut recording by violinist Jascha Heifetz, and another recording by violinist Robert McDuffie. I saw this grand piece performed live with violin soloist Glenn Dicterow and the New York Philharmonic. What better way to celebrate the First Anniversary of "Song of the Day"! I'll be posting music favorites (sometimes more than one on a single day!) for as long as there's a song in my heart.
Song of the Day: Do You Know What it Means to Miss New Orleans?, music by Louis Alter, lyrics by Eddie De Lange, is from the 1947 film, "New Orleans," in which it was sung by Billie Holiday (featured on "The Ultimate Collection"). It has been recorded by many artists. I post it today as a tribute to the people of that great city of jazz, and to all those who are dealing with the horrific tragedy of Hurricane Katrina. Godspeed. Today's selections are from the children of New Orleans. Listen to an audio clip of a live rendition from Satchmo, a soulful version by clarinetist Pete Fountain, and a vocal version by another New Orleans native, Harry Connick, Jr.
Song of the Day: I Don't Know Enough About You features the words of singer Peggy Lee and the music of Dave Barbour. It's a 1945 hit that has been revived again and again. Listen to audio clips from Peggy Lee, Russell Malone and Diana Krall (at those links).
Song of the Day: Turn Your Love Around, words and music by Jay Graydon, Steve Lukather, and Jerry Leiber, exhibits that foot tappin' jazz pizzazz in the performance of George Benson. Listen to an audio clip here.
Song of the Day: Throb features words and music by Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis and Janet Jackson. Granted... there really aren't many lyrics and the song is minimalist. But it scorches the dance floor. From the album "Janet" (Miss Jackson, if you're nasty...), listen to an audio clip here.
Song of the Day: Just Friends, music by John Klenner, lyrics by Sam Lewis, has been performed by many artists, starting with Red McKenzie in 1931. Listen to audio clips of versions by Russ Columbo, Bobby Darin, Frank Sinatra, Joe Pass, Helen Merrill with Stan Getz, and Stan Getz with Chet Baker.
Song of the Day: Pent-up House (audio clip at that link) is a Sonny Rollins jazz composition. It has been played by many musicians; among my favorite versions is one featuring two great jazz violinists: Jean-Luc Ponty and Stephane Grappelli. These two actually recorded the composition live for "Violin-Summit" (it was also included on their "Giants" disc). An audio clip of a solo Grappelli effort is here.
Song of the Day: At Last features the music of Harry Warren and the lyrics of Mack Gordon. Today, one hears it during a cat food commercial. But it has been recorded by many artists, including Glenn Miller, Celine Dion, and, of course, Etta James (audio clips at those links).
Song of the Day: Jump, Jive, an' Wail is a classic Louis Prima composition, which was also recorded by the Brian Setzer Orchestra (audio clip at that link). But nothing compares to the Prima version (audio clip here). The master passed away on this date in 1978, but his music lives on and on...
Song of the Day: R&B Junkie is credited to Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis, Janet Jackson, Tony "Prof. T" Tolbert, and the writers of "I'm in Love" (because it samples from that great Evelyn "Champagne" King track). Performed by Janet Jackson, it has all the groove of the Kashif song, with a little Jam & Lewis magic. Listen to an audio clip here.
Song of the Day: I'm in Love, music and lyrics by Kashif Saleem (born Michael Jones) and Nicholas Trevisick, is one of Evelyn "Champagne" King's best. Listen to an audio clip here.
Song of the Day: Meditation from Thais is a theme composed by Jules Massenet from the opera "Thais." I first heard this as a 78 r.p.m. recording by violinist Fritz Kreisler, and fell in love with it. Listen to an audio clip here of this wonderful melody played by violinist Maxim Vengerov.
Song of the Day: Lovin' is Really My Game, words and music by B. Woods and T. Womack, was first recorded by the group Brainstorm (audio clip at that link). Belita Woods, who was one of the song's accredited writers, and who spent some time with George Clinton and P-Funk (Parliament-Funkadelic), provides the rousing hi-energy vocals on the track. It was also recorded by Ann Nesby and by Sylvester (the audio clip is linked mistakenly at "Take Me to Heaven").
Song of the Day: Love Insurance, words and music by S. Plotnicki and E. Rubin, was performed by the group Front Page, featuring the late Sharon Redd. Listen to an audio clip of this rare, energetic, musical disco classic here.
The tenth anniversary celebrations continue this afternoon with the publication of my interview at Sunni's Salon. I have known Sunni Maravillosa for a long time, and she's a total sweetheart. Her interview of me is comprehensive, wide-ranging, sometimes intimate, and always entertaining.
The 8-page interview starts here.
Comments welcome.
Song of the Day: Hound Dog, words and music by Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller, was performed with characteristic gusto by Elvis Presley. Though the song was performed by Big Mama Thornton in 1953 as a #1 R&B track, it would not become a pop hit until three years later. On this date, in 1956, the song ascended as a double-sided record with "Don't Be Cruel" to #1 on the Billboard charts and stayed there for 11 weeks. It's one of my favorite Presley recordings. Listen to an audio clip here. This past week also marks the 28th anniversary of Presley's death.
Song of the Day: It Ain't Necessarily So, music by George Gershwin, lyrics by Ira Gershwin, has been recorded by countless artists. Listen to audio clips of this "Porgy and Bess" staple performed by Peggy Lee, Bobby Darin, Lena Horne, trumpeter Art Farmer, clarinetist Buddy DeFranco and pianist Oscar Peterson, Peterson on clavicord with guitarist Joe Pass, and Paul Robeson.
Song of the Day: Once Upon a Time features the words and music of Giorgio Moroder, Pete Bellotte and singer Donna Summer, who performs this disco classic. Listen to an audio clip here.
Yesterday marked the 10th anniversary of the publication of Ayn Rand: The Russian Radical. All this week, I'll be "looking back" on the past ten years, through interviews, posts, and discussions.
Ironically, just yesterday, in anticipation of the 40th anniversary of the Beatles' Shea Stadium concert, a piece by Michele Ingrassia was published in the NY Daily News entitled "Reasons to Celebrate." Ingrassia asks the question: "What's behind our obsession with anniversaries?" She writes:
Behold, the anniversary onslaught. Not a morning goes by when someone isn't heralding, say, the 145th anniversary of the Pony Express, the 70th anniversary of the flat-top beer can or the 40th anniversary of the Slurpee. ... "It's a way for people to put their lives in context," says humorist Robert Lanham ... If anniversary mania has exploded this year, perhaps it's because 2005 is such a nice, neat number to subtract from. ... Lanham calls it a symptom of our "neurotic culture"baby boomers' need to explain everything through the prism of their own lives. ... "It's a way to recontextualize," [pop culturalist Robert] Thompson says.
Well, it's not necessarily the case that one is "neurotic" for seeing life through one's own eyes and one's own experience. Personal context does matter! And given my own obsession with the art of context-keeping, I can't think of a better way to mark my own tenth anniversaries this week than to extol the virtue of looking through the prism of my own life. It is an opportunity to "recontextualize" things, indeedto take stock, to look back, to see where I was, where I am, and where I'm going.
So there will be more to come throughout the week. Two new interviews make their debut this week. For those interested in past interviews and notices, take a look here.
Comments welcome.
Song of the Day: I Feel Fine is a John Lennon-Paul McCartney composition, recorded by The Beatles. Speaking of anniversaries, today is a big one: The 40th anniversary of The Beatles' Shea Stadium concert (a midi audio clip of this song at that link). Nobody could actually hear this song or any other performed at Shea because the roar of the crowd was deafening. But it was a seminal moment in rock history. I also love a version of this song by singer Nancy Ames, from her album "Spiced with Brasil."
Song of the Day: Oh Marie, written by Eduardo Di Capua, was sung with jazzy Italian gusto for the Peabody-dancing crowd by the Wild One, Louis Prima. A Louis Armstrong-influenced performer, Prima gives us Sicilian scat singing at its best. Listen to an audio clip here.
Song of the Day: Jazzman, words and music by Carole King and David Palmer, is sung by King, with a little help from saxophonist Tom Scott. Listen to an audio clip of this song here.
Song of the Day: Once You've Been in Love, music by Michel Legrand and lyrics by Alan and Marilyn Bergman, is from the 1972 film "One is a Lonely Number" (aka "Two is a Happy Number"). Streisand recorded a version of this that was never released. But Sarah Vaughan's version was released, and it is grand and moving.
Song of the Day: Once in a Lifetime, music and lyrics by Leslie Bricusse and Anthony Newley, was featured in the 1962 Broadway musical, "Stop the World, I Want to Get Off." This song was also featured in the 1966 movie version. I was first exposed to this song as a kid when I heard my sister-in-law sing it in performance at the Gil Hodges Grand Slam Cocktail Lounge. Listen to Newley's original version here and to a swingin' grand slam version by Sammy Davis, Jr. here.
Song of the Day: Scrapple from the Apple (Dexter Gordon audio clip at that link), composed by Charlie "Yardbird" Parker, is one of those classic bop tunes that has been recorded by countless jazz musicians. Listen to a "Bird" audio clip here and to a clip of one of my favorites: a Jim Hall live rendition here.
Song of the Day: And the Beat Goes On, words and music by Leon Sylvers III, William Shelby, and Stephen Shockley, was performed with jazzy gusto by The Whispers. Listen to an audio clip of this classic dance track here.
Song of the Day: Rock Steady, music and lyrics by Babyface, Antonio "L.A." Reid, D. Ladd, and B. Watson, was performed by The Whispers. Listen to an audio clip of this retro-sounding, soulful 1987 dance cut here.
Song of the Day: Never (Past Tense), words and music by R. Checo, A. Lorenzo, and P. Lewis, is performed by The Roc Project, featuring Tina Arena. A catchy hook and an irresistible dance beat grace this track. Listen to an audio clip here.
Song of the Day: (I Love You) For Sentimental Reasons was most likely written solely by William "Pat" Best, but a lyric credit has also been given to Deek Watson. Either way, the song has charted with many artists through the years, from Ella Fitzgerald to Sam Cooke to the Cleftones (audio clips at those links). Listen to an audio clip of my favorite version, the #1 hit by Nat King Cole.
Song of the Day: Rumour Has It features the words and music of Giorgio Moroder, Pete Bellotte, and singer Donna Summer, who performs the song. At the height of her Disco Diva status, Summer belted this one with gusto. A classic Moroder production, it first appeared on the album, "Once Upon a Time" (audio clip at that link).
Song of the Day: Memories of You features the music of Eubie Blake and the lyrics of Andy Razaf. Listen to an audio clip interview with ragtime pianist Blake and a clip of him playing the song here. And check out an audio clip from a lovely version featuring clarinetist Benny Goodman and guitarist Charlie Christian here.
Song of the Day: The Way You Look Tonight, music by Jerome Kern, lyrics by Dorothy Fields, has been recorded by many performers, including The Lettermen, Anita O'Day, and Frank Sinatra (audio clips at artist links). This Oscar-winning song was first performed in the film "Swing Time," where Fred Astaire sings it to Ginger Rogers. Listen to an audio clip from the soundtrack here. I especially love a live instrumental version by jazz guitarist Jim Hall (audio clip here).
Song of the Day: The Way You Make Me Feel features the words, music, and performance of Michael Jackson. Back in the day, when I was a DJ, I'd play this at a party, and have to play it a few times in a row because the crowd just wouldn't stop dancing to it. It grew on me. Listen to an audio clip of this finger-poppin' Jackson track here.
Song of the Day: The Way He Makes Me Feel, music by Michel Legrand, lyrics by Alan and Marilyn Bergman, is a gorgeous Academy Award-nominated song from the 1983 film "Yentl." Listen to two Barbra Streisand audio clips from the score here.
Song of the Day: What Do All the People Know? features the words and music of B. Monroe from the group, The Monroes. Listen to an audio clip of this rhythmic '80s new wave hit here.
Song of the Day: But Not For Me is a classic George and Ira Gershwin song (introduced in the 1930 Broadway production of "Girl Crazy" and performed in both the 1932 and 1943 film versions too) that has been recorded by countless artists from Ella Fitzgerald to Sarah Vaughan to Linda Ronstadt (audio clips at those links). For a change of pace, check out an audio clip of a version by the original "space cadet," Sun Ra. A happy and a healthy to #1 Herman Blount (Sun Ra) Expert, my colleague and pal Robert Campbell, who also celebrates his birthday today.
Song of the Day: The Flying Song (audio clip at that link) is an instrumental composition written and performed by Joe Maurone (aka Spaceplayer). I first heard this track years ago and it still resonates with me. A very happy and healthy birthday to its composer.
Song of the Day: Don't Go, music and lyrics by Vince Clarke, is another Yaz (or Yazoo) dance gem from the 1980s. Listen to an audio clip here.
Song of the Day: Situation features the words and music of vocalist Alison Moyet and synth player Vince Clarke (who went on to Erasure fame). This duo constituted the Electro pop group Yazoo (or Yaz, as it was known in the US). Listen to an audio clip from the album "Upstairs at Eric's" (at that link) and a sample of the original Francois Kevorkian 12" remix at this link.
Song of the Day: Everything Happens to Me, words and music by Tom Adair and Matt Dennis, is one of those Murphy's Law meets Romance songs. It's delivered with typical heartbreak by Billie Holiday in an audio clip here. Listen also to a Frank Sinatra audio clip, with Tommy Dorsey and His Orchestra here and, in a later version, here. And check out an audio clip here of a version featuring alto saxophonist Charlie Parker with strings.
Song of the Day: This Swingin' Life (audio clip at that link) features the music and lyrics of Jeff Driskill and Don Miller. It was recorded by the Don Miller Orchestra, which was the house band for "Jerry Seinfeld Live on Broadway." I adore the trombone solo of my pal Roger Bissell.
Song of the Day: Second Time Around, music and lyrics by L. Sylvers and W. Shelby, performed by the group Shalamar, has a nice groove and hook. Listen to an audio clip here.
Song of the Day: Dream On features music by Bill Frisell, lyrics by Steven Tyler, and the powerful performance of Aerosmith. It's a rock classic. Listen to an audio clip here.
Song of the Day: Burn Rubber on Me, music and lyrics by Charlie Wilson, Lonnie Simmons, and Rudy Taylor, was performed by the funky Gap Band. Listen to an audio clip here.
Song of the Day: That's the Way I've Always Heard it Should Be, music and lyrics by Jacob Brackman, was recorded by a melancholy Carly Simon. Listen to an audio clip of this plaintive track here.
Song of the Day: Street Life, music by Joe Sample, words by Oscar-winning lyricist Will Jennings, was performed by The Crusaders, with Randy Crawford as guest vocalist. The song has been heard on several soundtracks as well, including for the films "Sharky's Machine" and "Jackie Brown." Listen to audio clips here and here.
Song of the Day: Give Me the Night features words and music by Rod Temperton, production by the great Quincy Jones, and performance by jazz guitarist and singer, George Benson. It has a nice groove, with those sweet unison vocal-guitar lines that Benson does so well. Listen to an audio clip here. And check out two audio clips of alternative versions, featuring singer Randy Crawford, who formerly performed with the Crusaders.
Song of the Day: Everybody Gets to Go to the Moon, music and lyrics by Jimmy Webb, was originally performed by the Philly soul group Three Degrees, but has been recorded also by Buddy Greco, Thelma Houston, and Dusty Springfield (live). I used to love seeing my sister-in-law perform this live. What better way to mark the anniversary of the Apollo 11 moon landing in song... listen to a Three Degrees audio clip here.
Song of the Day: Believe, credited to six writers, was performed by Cher, whose recording was Billboard magazine's #1 Hot 100 Single of 1999. It was the biggest single of her career, and provided her with her first Grammy Award (for "Best Dance Recording"). It is known also for its use of the vocoder (though that particular link adds vocoder effects not on the actual recording). Listen to an audio clip of this well-produced dance track here.
Song of the Day: Love Come Down, composed by former B.T. Express band member Kashif, who also provides those nice keyboard licks, was performed with funky verve by Evelyn "Champagne" King. Listen to an audio clip here.
Song of the Day: Fresh features the music and lyrics of J. T. Taylor, S. Linzer, and Kool and the Gang. "Fresh as a summer breeze," indeed; listen to an audio clip of this 1984 dance-pop hit here.
Song of the Day: Tempus Fugit (or as it is sometimes rendered, "Tempus Fugue-It," in contrast to "Tempus Fuggedabodit," as my pal Aeon Skoble would say) is a composition by be-bop pianist Bud Powell. Listen here to a Powell audio clip of this superior uptempo bop track, featuring bassist Ray Brown. Also check out a Chick Corea audio clip tribute to Powell. And I especially love a burning version by Stan Getz with a terrific ensemble that features pianist and NYU educator Jim McNeely (listen to an audio clip here).
Song of the Day: The Song is You, music by Jerome Kern, lyrics by Oscar Hammerstein II, is from the 1932 Broadway musical, "Music in the Air." It was also featured in the 1934 film version with Gloria Swanson. It has been recorded by vocalists such as Frank Sinatra and Tommy Dorsey and guitarist Chuck Wayne, whose fleet-of-finger jazz version I like best (audio clips at those links).
Song of the Day: You Make Me Feel Mighty Real features words and music by James "Tip" Wirrick and Sylvester, who performs the song like the diva he was. Listen to an audio clip of this rhythmic disco nugget here. And listen to audio clips of remakes by Jimmy Sommerville and Byron Stingily.
Song of the Day: The Windmills of Your Mind, music by Michel Legrand, lyrics by Alan and Marilyn Bergman, was featured in both film versions of "The Thomas Crown Affair": the Steve McQueen-Faye Dunaway 1968 romp and the 1999 flick starring Pierce Brosnan and a scalding Rene Russo, who shares a birthday with me. Winner of an Academy Award for "Best Song," it has been performed by Noel Harrison (for the original film), Sting (for the remake), Jack Jones, and Dusty Springfield (audio clips at each link). I also love an instrumental take on it by Phil Woods.
Song of the Day: Let's Get it Started is credited to six writers, including Jamie Gomez and Allan Pineda of the hip hop hybrid group known as Black Eyed Peas. It has become a rhythmic anthem of sorts in many sports venues ... perfect for tonight's baseball All-Star Game. Yankee fan that I am... I'll be rooting for the American League. In All-Star Game history, only one Yankee has gotten an MVP trophy in this exhibition game (Derek Jeter). But the National League still leads in the record books for most wins since the inception of this mid-summer classic in 1933: NL: 40 wins; AL: 33 wins; 2 ties. Nowadays, the league that wins takes home field advantage in the World Series. From the album "Elephunk," listen to an audio clip of this song, or its original un-PC incarnation as "Let's Get Retarded" ... here.
Song of the Day: Violin Concerto in E Minor, composed by Felix Mendelssohn, has been one of my favorites ever since I saw a young girl named Nanete Gampel play it on television with the Boston Pops Orchestra conducted by Arthur Fiedler. Listen to these audio clips from a glorious version by Jascha Heifetz, with the Boston Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Charles Munch.
Song of the Day: Moonglow, music by Will Hudson and Irving Mills, lyrics by Eddie De Lange, was played most memorably by the Benny Goodman Quartet (listen to an audio clip here).
Song of the Day: The Very Thought of You, words and music by Ray Noble, has been sung by many artists, including Bing Crosby, Doris Day, Vaughn Monroe, and Rick Nelson (listen to audio clips at those links).
Song of the Day: (Let Me Be Your) Teddy Bear, words and music by Kal Mann and Bernie Lowe, hit #1 on the Billboard pop chart on this date in 1957. It's one of my favorite Elvis Presley songs (he would have turned 70 years old this year). Listen to an audio clip here.
Song of the Day: Fantasy, music and lyrics by Maurice White, Eddie del Barrio, and Verdine White, is one of those classic Earth, Wind, and Fire performances. It has fine, jazzy harmonies and a great pulse. Listen to an audio clip here.
Song of the Day: I Only Have Eyes for You, music by Harry Warren, lyrics by Al Dubin, was written for the 1934 Busby Berkeley film "Dames," starring Joan Blondell, Dick Powell, and Ruby Keeler (listen to audio clips from the film's soundtrack here). It was a big hit for pianist Eddy Duchin (audio clip here). I especially love a rendition by Carmen McRae ("I only have eyes for you... Joe-oh-oh Pass"). Listen to an audio clip of that playful live version here. Today is my precious dog Blondie's Sweet 16th Birthday; her eyes ain't what they used to be. But she's still the #1 blond in my life. Happy Birthday, Blondie!
Song of the Day: The More I See You, music by Harry Warren, lyrics by Mack Gordon, has been performed by many instrumentalists, including Harry James, and many singers, including Nat King Cole, Jack Jones, 60s Latin rocker Chris Montez, and Carmen McRae, who sings the lovely introduction (audio clips at each link). The song was written for the 1945 Betty Grable film "Billy Rose's Diamond Horseshoe," in which it was sung by Dick Haymes (audio clip at that link). Happy anniversary, sweetheart.
Song of the Day: America the Beautiful, music by Samuel Ward, lyrics by Katharine Lee Bates, is my favorite "patriotic" song, and so appropriate on this Independence Day. My favorite version remains that of the soulful, heartfelt Brother Ray (Charles). Listen to an audio clip here. A happy and a healthy Fourth of July to all.
Song of the Day: Searching, words and music by Mauro Malavasi and Paul Slade, was performed by Change, with lead vocals by the late, great Luther Vandross. Our tribute to Luther continues today. Listen to an audio clip of this soulful dance classic here.
Song of the Day: Never Too Much was composed and performed by the late, great Luther Vandross, who passed away yesterday (1 July 2005). A wonderful crooner, with a silky smooth voice, Luther also knew how to mix it up with some of the hottest R&B dance beats. I'm very sad to see him go, but eternally grateful to Luther for leaving such wonderful music behind. Rest in peace. Listen to an audio clip of this classic track from his debut solo album here. And listen to an audio clip of Mary J. Blige, from an all-star Luther tribute.
Song of the Day: Boogie Nights, words and music by Rod Temperton (who wrote quite a few hits for Michael Jackson), was performed by the R&B-disco fusion band Heatwave. The opening and closing bars of this classic dance track are oh-so-jazzy. Listen to an audio clip here.
Song of the Day: System of Survival, music and lyrics by Skylark, was performed with gusto by Earth, Wind, and Fire. Social commentary has rarely been so danceable: "A plastic face on satellite TV says 'Life is filled with give and take.' He's takin' and I'm givin'. So I dance. It's my system of survival." While the original version of this hit is good (audio clip here), I confess that the 12" house remix by Steve Thompson and Michael Barbiero burns. Check out the cover design of that classic vinyl release here.
Song of the Day: Too Hot features music, lyrics, and performance by George "Funky" Brown and Kool and the Gang. It's a cliche but it's true: A "hot" song for a summer's day never sounded this cool. Listen to an audio clip of this mid-tempo classic here.
Readers may notice that I've had a lot of songs posted to my Notablog recently. I keep the music flowing, daily, even if circumstances sometimes get in the way of regular, more "substantive" posting (though I do encourage readers to take a look at my "Song of the Day" listings, like the one today that marks the Stonewall Riots.)
Among the circumstances currently preoccupying me: My editing of the Fall 2005 Journal of Ayn Rand Studies (JARS), which will include a new essay by me detailing the results of my investigation of new material unearthed from Russian archives on Ayn Rand's secondary school and university education. It is entitled "The Rand Transcript, Revisited," and is a sequel both to "The Rand Transcript" and Ayn Rand: The Russian Radical. And it has a few interesting historical curiosities and surprises...
It is only natural that I've been spending a bit more time on Rand Studies over the past year or so, given my own scholarship in this area, the Rand Centenary, the JARS Centenary issues (I and II), and the upcoming tenth anniversary (in August) of Russian Radical, for which I've authored several reflections that will appear in such publications as Liberty, The Freeman, and The Free Radical. Also forthcoming: my essay, "Atlas Shrugged: Manifesto for a New Radicalism," in Atlas Shrugged: A Philosophical and Literary Companion, edited by Edward W. Younkins (Ashgate, Spring 2007); and my essay on "The Growing Industry in Rand Scholarship," in Philosophers of Capitalism, also edited by Edward W. Younkins (Rowman & Littlefield, Spring 2006). In addition, I've authored a brief encyclopedia entry on Rand for The Encyclopedia of the Counterculture and separate entries on Rand and Nathaniel Branden for The Encyclopedia of Libertarianism. Finally, I'm writing a rather comprehensive critical essay on James Valliant's book, The Passion of Ayn Rand's Critics; the essay, which will most likely be pubilshed in July as a Notablog exclusive, will deal with larger issues of historiography, biography, and Rand scholarship.
In the midst of all this, I've been interviewed by French researcher Sébastien Caré, who is preparing a doctoral dissertation on the libertarian movement in the United States; Caré has given me permission to post our exchange on Notablog. It will most likely be published here during the week of August 14th.
August 14, 1995 is actually the date that the second book of my "Dialectics and Liberty" trilogy, Ayn Rand: The Russian Radical, was published... ahead of my first book, Marx, Hayek, and Utopia, which was published on August 18, 1995. It's a long story how this came to be; I discuss aspects of it in the various aforementioned reflections, which will be featured online in due course.
Other interviews are also scheduled, including one that will be published in Ama-Gi, the Hayek Society Journal of the London School of Economics. The interview, of course, is Hayek-centered, dealing with my own "dialectical libertarian" approach, which is the focus of the "Dialectics and Liberty" trilogy that culminated in 2000 with the publication of Total Freedom: Toward a Dialectical Libertarianism.
Other forthcoming publications include essays on "Karl Marx" and "libertarianism" that will appear in the Routledge International Encyclopedia of Economic Sociology.
Finally, for those who have checked my "Forthcoming" page, and who have asked me for a progress report: My research and study of Aleksandr Blok, the great Russian Symbolist writer whom Rand named as her favorite poet, is a long way off from completion. And my continuing work with Bertell Ollman on the history of dialectical thinking is ongoing. I don't anticipate any publication of either of these projects in the near future.
I want to thank my Notablog readers for their continuing support. I value the comments I receive publicly and privately. Given ongoing complications from a serious life-long illness, however, it takes me a bit longer to respond nowadays. Because of these limitations, I've cutback rather dramatically on my posting to other Internet and Usenet forums and other blogs. And I will be unable to offer my Cyberseminar in the 2005-2006 academic year. I hope to offer that long-distance learning class again at some point in the future, and will post an update when the time comes.
Just know that I'm working very hard and doing the best that I can.
Thanks again for your warm wishes.
Comments welcome.
Song of the Day: The Man That Got Away, music by Harold Arlen, lyrics by Ira Gershwin, is an Oscar-nominated song from the 1954 film, "A Star is Born," starring Judy Garland and James Mason. It has also been performed by everybody from Ella Fitzgerald (listen to an audio clip here) to Jeff Buckley (heard in his "Live in Chicago" concert and in an audio clip here from "Mystery White Boy") to Joanne Barry. But the Garland version is most famous and today it is worth noting especially in honor of those "Friends of Dorothy." On this date in 1969, the Stonewall Riots began. Some say that the patrons at the Stonewall Inn were in no mood to be harassed by yet another cop raid on their establishment after mourning at the Manhattan funeral of Judy Garland the day before. Connections real, coincidental, or poetic, gay icon or not ... listen to an audio clip of this great song from the film's soundtrack here. And Long Live the Spirit of Stonewall!
Song of the Day: Sweet Georgia Brown, music and lyrics by Ben Bernie, Maceo Pinkard, and Kenneth Casey, is a 1925 gem that still sounds fresh today. Perhaps best known for its Brother Bones and His Shadows version, it became the theme song for the Harlem Globetrotters. It has been performed by countless artists, including the Quintet of the Hot Club of France (with Django Reinhardt & Stephane Grappelli), Stephane Grappelli & David Grisman, Benny Goodman, Bing Crosby, Ella Fitzgerald, and Johnny Mercer, and even in films, such as "Sweet and Lowdown" (audio clips at each link). The guitarist who recreates the ol' swing sound in that film is Howard Alden. But one of my favorite versions is by my pal, writer, trombonist, and Birthday Boy Roger Bissell (on "The Art of the Duo," audio clip here). Happy Birthday, Roger!!!
Song of the Day: Midnight Sun features music by the great vibes player Lionel Hampton and composer Sonny Burke and lyrics by the great Johnny Mercer. Listen to an audio clip of a lovely June Christy version here and a Sarah Vaughan-Joe Pass jazz collaboration here.
Song of the Day: Summer Lovers, music and lyrics by Dennis Matkovsky and Michael Sembello, who performs this title track for the menage a trois 1982 film, starring Peter Gallagher. I like the 12" vinyl "long version" best.
