Throw Back Thursday • Sylvester's "I (Who Have Nothing)"

For my second Throw Back Thursday post, I thought I would take a look back in history at some great performers from the LGBT community. And if I was going there, I wanted to start with the brilliant Sylvester. The performer, born Sylvester James, Jr., in the Watts neighborhood of Los Angeles, California. As a youngster, Sylvester was a part of the church choir, until the persecution began as the congregation became increasingly aware of homosexuality. Sylvester soon left the area, and settled in San Fransisco. There he became involved with The Disquotays, a group of cross dressing men of color. As that group faded, he became a part of The Cockettes, a group that often played with the gender roles and traditional clothing.

In the early 1970s, Sylvester focused on his music career, and was soon recording with his band, Sylvester and his Hot Band. In 1977, he released his first truly solo effort, an eponymous album that was a mild success. That was followed up by 'Step II', which had the hit song, "You Make Me Feel (Mighty Real)". In 1979, he released the album 'Stars', which featured the single "I (Who Have Nothing)". The song had music by Carlo Donida and lyrics by Giulio "Mogol" Rapetti, who wrote it in 1961. Since it was written in Italian, American writers Mike Stoller and Jerry Lieber adapted the song for the American audience, and offered it to Ben E. King, who released it in 1963. That same year, it was recorded by Shirley Bassey, who had the best known version of the song. This is Sylvester's Dance version of the song, "I (Who Have Nothing)".

It was unfortunate that Sylvester spent so little time recording, as he fell ill in the 1980s, before passing in 1988 from complications due to AIDS. I do wish Sylvester had more time to record, and leave us with an even greater library. You can find the album 'Stars', which featured "I (Who Have Nothing)", on iTunes and Amazon.

The Nylons • Poison Ivy

Late in the summer, I had been doing lots of work around the farm, and while it felt good to get out in the summer sun, I also discovered that I seem to have an ever-growing allergy to a few plants that can be found there. In particular, poison ivy. Of course, even being scarred, I found inspiration in the itchy. So here I bring you the song "Poison Ivy", as sung by the Canadian a cappella group, The Nylons.

The Nylons: Marc Connor, Claude Morrison, Arnold Robinson, and Paul Cooper

Their version first appeared on the soundtrack to the 1988 film, 'Stealing Home', and then on their 1989 album, 'Rockapella'. The song was written by the great team, Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller. It was originally released by The Coasterss in 1959, and became a Top 10 hit for the group, and #1 on the Billboard R&B chart.

One of the founding members of The Nylons was Marc Connor, and out and proud member of the LGBT community. Unfortunately, Connor passed away in 1991, from AIDS-related complications. In 1990, Micah Barnes joined the group, replacing Paul Cooper as baritone. Micah is also an out and proud performer, and since leaving the group in 1994, Barnes has released some good music of his own. You can purchase The Nylons album 'Rockapella' from iTunes.

In 1986, The Nylons released 'Seamless', a wonderful collection of Doo-Wop classics, many hits from the 1950s. Among the songs on the album was "The Lion Sleeps Tonight", a true classic written and performed in 1939 by Solomon Linda, in Zulu. The song, which also had writing credits to Hugo Peretti, Luigi Creatore, George David Weiss and Albert Stanton, remained popular, and was a huge hit in 1961 for The Tokens, when it topped the Billboard Hot 100.

You can purchase 'Seamless' from iTunes. You can also find both songs on 'The Best of The Nylons', available on iTunes. The Nylons continue to make great harmonies, still making great music. For more about them, you can find them on Facebook.

Love Speaks in 1963

Clockwise: Little Peggy March, Brenda Lee, Patsy Cline, and Barbara Lewis.

Tonight I turn back the clock, and picture myself sitting in front of the high fidelity record player in 1963. Yes, that was 51 years ago, and, to paraphrase Bob Dylan, "The times, they were a-changin'" Pop music had been something of an adult contemporary playground, with music aimed at adults. But since the late 1950s, music was more and more aimed at the kids, not the parents. And in these songs, you see songs aimed at the different audiences. My first song of the evening was first recorded in 1961, an instrumental recorded by French conductor Franck Pourcel. He had co-written "Chariot" with bandleader Paul Mauriat. Soon, lyrics were added to the song, adapted from a song with lyrics by Jacques Plante. Singer Petula Clark had a hit with Italian and French versions of the song. By 1963, Norman Gimbel translated the lyrics, and 15-year-old Little Peggy March recorded it. When it went to #1 on the Billboard Hot 100, she became the youngest female to top the chart. This is a video of Little Peggy March singing "I Will Follow Him", with augmented audio.

Next up, we have an artist who was only 19, but was already a household name. In 1960, Brenda Lee has a #1 song on the Billboard Hot 100 with "I'm Sorry". In 1963, she released a song written by Jean Renard and Carl Sigman, "Losing You". The song is a lovely ballad, and the recording was produced by the great Owen Bradley, a driving force in Country music in the 1050s and 1960s. While Lee was a Pop star, she was recording in Nashville from the start, and soon shifted her music to a Country feel. And this song went to #2 on the Billboard Adult Contemporary chart, as well as #6 on the Billboard Hot 100. This is Brenda Lee singing "Losing You".

Our this song of the evening was written by the talented young woman who sang it. Barbara Lewis was just 20 years old when she released "Hello Stranger", a song that combined the smoothness and sexy nature of R&B, while maintaining some of the Pop feel the kids were looking for. The song spent two weeks atop the R&B chart, as well as making it to #3 on the Billboard Hot 100. I just love the song, but realize Lewis is best known for a song she released in 1965, "Baby, I'm Yours". To tell you the truth, I think I like this one better. I hope you enjoy Barbara Lewis singing "Hello Stranger".

You might say I've saved the best for last. Well, in this case, it was the song which inspired the post. You see, when I was trying to decide the theme of the night, I started looking at YouTube, and the songs of Patsy Cline. I quickly figured out this was a song I hadn't featured before, but that can no longer be said. "Leavin' On Your Mind" was written by Wayne Walker and Webb Pierce, and made famous in 1963 by Cline. And like Brenda's song, this one was produced by Owen Bradley. But it also had the distinct advantage of being sung by one of the greats at the time. I just love her voice on this song, so rich and so full. This is Patsy Cline singing "Leavin' On Your Mind".

Have a great weekend!

Dark Monday • Funny Girl

It is almost impossible to believe that just over 50 years ago, A young Barbra Streisand was starring on Broadway as Fanny Brice in the original production of 'Funny Girl'. It is true, for on March 26, 1964, the musical opened at the Winter Garden Theater. At the time, Streisand was just 21 years old. The reviews for her performance were outstanding, and it seemed as though an overnight star was born. However, she had already had a showstopping number in the show 'I Can Get It For You Wholesale', and having carved are out a career as a club singer, both in Manhattan and elsewhere on tour. She also had appeared on 'The Tonight Show' in 1961, and began her recording career, with three albums on the shelves before the opening night. And she had also appeared on 'The Judy Garland Show' the year before, putting in an iconic duet with Garland. So being an 'overnight sensation' was years in the making.

Left: Barbra Streisand as Fanny Brice in 1964. Right: Streisand in concert in 2006.

To celebrate the 50th anniversary of the musical, with music by the great Jule Styne and lyrics by Bob Merrill. The production was directed by Garson Kanin and choreographed by Carol Haney, under the supervision of Jerome Robbins. Streisand was joined on stage by Sydney Chaplin, Kay Medford, Danny Meehan, Jean Stapleton, and Lanie Kazan. The show was nominated for 8 Tony Awards, but won none. Streisand lost out to Carol Channing in 'Hello, Dolly!', which dominated the 1964 award ceremony. I thought I would offer up a track off the Original Broadway Cast album. Picking which one would be a tricky one, especially for me. I love them all so much. So I finally decided on a song that director Kanin wanted to cut from the show, over the objections of Streisand. She recorded the song for her 4th album, and it was the title cut. The song was released early, and became a hit, and convinced Kanin to keep it in the show. It was said early audiences would applaud when the music was played in the overture. This is Barbra Streisand singing "People" from the 'Funny Girl' original cast album.

Now, I couldn't just leave it at that, could I? So jump into the time machine, and set the destination for 42 years later, 2006. Streisand was out on tour, setting house gross records in 14 of the 16 arenas on the tour. At age 64, she was still the hottest ticket to be found. The show covered the music of her storied career, spanning the previous 4+ decades. Among the set list for the concert was music from the show, 'Funny Girl'. I thought I would include two performances from the concert, and show that while she might have been older, she might very well have been as good, if not better. This is Streisand singing the songs "Funny Girl" and "The Music That Makes Me Dance", both from the Broadway musical 'Funny Girl'.

Earlier this year, a special 50th Anniversary version of the album was released. You can find The original Broadway cast album for 'Funny Girl' from iTunes and Amazon. From what I could tell, it was a repackaging of the original release, with an additional 48-page booklet included. I didn't purchase it, for I had to old one I've had forever. That said, you can purchase the 'original' original Broadway cast recording for $2 less from iTunes and Amazon.

Sarah Vaughan in Sweden

I have long enjoyed the amazingness that is Sarah Vaughan. The singer, also known as Sassy, was not only popular with record buyers, but also record makers. Singers like Frank Sinatra envied the singer, having been quoted once as saying, "Sassy is so good now that when I listen to her I want to cut my wrists with a dull razor." Her career began in either late 1942 or early 1943, when she won an Amateur Night competition at Harlem's Apollo Theater. Soon she was opening for Ella Fitzgerald, and working with Earl Hines and Billy Eckstine. It was only a matter of time before she was out front and center, a headliner herself. In 1964,, Sassy had a show in Sweden, recorded for television. She sang some incredible songs, a few of which I will bring to you tonight. The first of which is a song written by 1954 by the pianist Erroll Garner, with lyrics later written by Johnny Burke. This is Sarah Vaughan singing the classic song, "Misty".

I thought I would lighten the post a bit with a song written in 1929 by Fats Waller, with lyrics by Andy Razaf. Waller's 1934 recording of "Honeysuckle Rose" has been placed in the Grammy Hall of Fame. The song is a delightful love song, and when it is in Sassy's hands, it is even lighter and sweeter. I hope you enjoy Sarah Vaughan singing "Honeysuckle Rose" as much as I do.

The next video features a popular song from the 1953 musical 'Kismet', written for the show by Robert Wright and George Forrest. The show was said to be inspired by the music of Russain composer Alexander Borodin. "Baubles, Bangles, and Beads" was a big hit in 1954 by the great Peggy Lee, but seems like a perfect choice for Vaughan. The song, with the complex melody line and structure, allows her voice to move effortlessly over the musical terrain, making for a wonderful aural journey. This is Sarah Vaughan singing "Baubles, Bangles and Beads".

"The More I See You" is a popular song written by Harry Warren, with lyrics by Mack Gordon. The song was published in 1945, and has been a standard for many singers ever since. Both men and women lined up to sing it, and that is what they did. While many took it on, few gave it the nuanced touch delivered by Vaughan. I think this is a perfect way to end the post tonight. Pleasure enjoy Sarah singing "The More I See You".

You can find the music of Sarah Vaughan anywhere great music is sold. There are plenty of song collections from which to choose, but in my experience, you cannot go wrong with Sarah. For example, you can find 'Sarah Vaughan's Golden Hits' on both iTunes and Amazon. And have a great weekend!

Neil Diamond • Cherry Cherry

I was trying to figure out the way to mark the new month, and to celebrate it. Then it came to me. In 1972, Neil Diamond released a double-album set, recorded live in August of 1972. 'Hot August Night' was recorded during a 10-night stand at The Greek Theater in Los Angeles, where Neil rocked hard the whole time. I remember listening to my sister playing this album, and enjoying it. Here is Neil singing "Cherry, Cherry", his hit song from 1966. Like all the songs from the live show save one, it was written by Diamond.

It is hard to believe that the album is now 42 years old. You can purchase 'Hot August Night' from iTunes and Amazon. That way, you can celebrate one of many Hot August Nights, with the music cranked up real loud. And singing along!

The Beatles • I Want To Hold Your Hand

Left to right: George Harrison, John Lennon, Ringo Starr, and Paul McCartney.

Fifty years ago, there was a revolution going on in the music world, and it wasn't an American Revolution. Quite the opposite, really. By the summer of 1964, the British Invasion was in full force, as artists from the UK were entrenched in a hostile take-over of the Billboard charts. It was The Beatles who announced the start of the invasion, with the release of "I Want To Hold Your Hand" in December of 1963. It entered the Billboard Hot 100 at #45, but soon scaled the chart and became the first Lennon/McCartney song to top the chart in the United States. The week of February 1st, the song was #1, and it stayed there for seven straight weeks. And what knocked it out of the top spot? It was "She Loves You", which spent a few weeks at #2, and then two weeks at #1. But it all began with the four lads from Liverpool singing "I Want To Hold Your Hand".

Have a great weekend!

Sly & the Family Stone • Hot Fun in the Summertime

In the summer of 1969, a song hit the airwaves that truly hit home with the public buying singles. While it wasn't their first single, or even their most successful, but "Hot Fun in the Summertime" is just a delectable treat, one worthy of being put on your summer playlist, no matter the year. So here we are, 45 years later, and I still wanna hear this song once we get into the dog days of summer. So let's celebrate the joy that is Sly and the Family Stone as they sing "Hot Fun in the Summertime".

Sly and the Family Stone where pretty unusual for the time, as they band managed to be integrated, as well as being multi-gendered, showing everyone could get along. As the name suggested, the band was fronted by songwriter/singer/producer Sly Stone and included several of his family and friends, bringing a whole new level of love to the table. You can find "Hot Fun in the Summertime" on the 'Greatest Hits' of Sly and the Family Stones, which can be purchased from iTunes and Amazon.

Spencer Day • Daybreak

I am such a fan of Spencer Day, and for so many reasons. First and foremost, he has the most wonderful voice. There is a delicious fullness, a sexy richness to the deep end of his range, and a sweet lightness to the top end. And he is a handsome man, as you can tell from the picture above. His music is also a combines the best of what Pop and Jazz have to offer.I first fell in love with Spencer when I heard his album 'Vagabond', and have been hooked since. I have seen his twice playing live, and like whipped cream on a bowl of ice cream, he is also a very kind and sweet man. And a good man who has a new album out, the newly released 'Daybreak'.

Last Friday, May 16, 2014, Day released his latest, 'Daybreak'. The ten-song collection is a combination of original songs and amazing covers. As a matter of fact, the songs are split 5 each, with three for #1 hits, and two former #2 songs on the Billboard Hot 100 from the 1960s. There are also five originals songs written by Spencer, which flow seamlessly with the hits, a true tribute to the quality of the songs. 'Daybreak' begins with the original song "Missing Tonight", the song made available when you placed the pre-order. It is a an invitation from Spencer to join him on a trip, which I would accept anytime. That is followed by "Naturally", another original with a sweetness and innocence that drives me to snap my fingers with a smile in my heart.It's a little bit Country, a little bit Pop-licious. Speaking of snapping fingers, the first cover leads off with just that. Lee Hazelwood wrote the next song for Nancy Sinatra, who had a #1 hit with it in 1966. Yes, Spencer tackles "These Boots Are Made For Walkin'", and that made me a very happy boy. Day offers us great range, from a seductive whisper to a growling shout. That leads to "Don't Let Me In", the third original song, and one of my favorites. There is a soft sensuality to the song that just draws me in from the first bars through the to the last. This is Spencer Day singing "Don't Let Me In".

In 1967, The Association has the #2 song on the Billboard Hot 100, and #1 on the Cashbox Top 100 Singles Chart. "Never My Love" was written by brothers Donald and Richard Addrisi, and given a soft and dreamy feel by The Association. While that recording might have felt a big Adult Contemporary, Spencer adds more gravity, and I feel like he could sing with with Lulu. When your hands start to clap involuntarily with the opening of "Wait Till I Get You Alone", rest assured you are not alone. The original song has a wonderful and sexy energy, and i find it impossible not to wish he was plotting to get me alone. Next up, Day offers us another hit from 1967. Written by band members Felix Cavaliere and Eddie Brigati, The Young Rascals has a #1 hit on the Billboard Hot 100 for four weeks with "Groovin'". Spencer retains the Folk/Pop feel, but still gives us a Jazz edge with some cool vocals. The calendar pushed forward to 1969, when Creedence Clearwater Revival scored a #2 hit on the Billboard Hot 100 with "Bad Moon Rising". The song was written by frontman John Fogerty, Spencer pulls it from Psychedelic Rock to Acid Jazz, flirting with several genres. In the final cover song on the album, Spencer sings a song by the iconic writing team of John Lennon and Paul McCartney. Peter and Gordon recorded the song, and it went to #1 on both the Billboard and Cashbox Hot 100 Pop Song charts. I love the laid-back feeling of Spencer Day singing "World Without Love".

The album ends like it started, with a beautiful original from Spencer Day. "You Don't Know You're Lonely" has a wonderful energy, and once more I find myself unable to resist it. There is joy, love, and strength to be found, a combination that is nothing but win. I love the album, and think it might actually top Day's 2013 release, 'The Mystery of You'. I love both albums, but there is something intrinsically loving about 'Daybreak', I just find myself listening to it time and time again. I cannot get enough, and I am starting to feel like I am an addict, and this album is my crack. I can't really pick a favorite cut - if forced, I'd most likely pick the last song I heard, for they are all so damn good! You can purchase 'Daybreak' from Bandcamp. For some reason, it is available for pre-order on iTunes and Amazon, and not delivered until June 3rd. I'm glad I went to Bandcamp, and have it on my iPod now! To learn more about Spencer Day, visit his official website. You can also 'like' him on Facebook and 'follow' him on Twitter. Be sure to check out his touring schedule, and go if he is playing near you. I promise you, you will love it!

Ricky Nelson • Travelin' Man

Ricky Nelson started out his career as the son of two consummate entertainers, Harriet and Ozzie Nelson. Like his parents, Ricky started out his career as a as an actor. In fact, he, along with brother David, played Ozzie and Harriet's son on 'The Adventures of Ozzie and Harriet' in the 1950s and early 1960s. Soon he became a teen heartthrob, which lead to more than just acting. Ricky was offered an opportunity in music, and he eagerly grabbed it. Soon released his music, and he was on his way. It seemed like he was born to make music. In 1961, Ricky Nelson had his second big hit of his career, and there were more to come. The song, written by Jerry Fuller, could be one of my favorites. This single made it to #1 on the Billboard Hot 100. This is Ricky Nelson singing "Travelin' Man".

Have a great weekend!

Gale Garnett • We'll Sing in the Sunshine

As we start a new month, it just seemed like this song, released 50 years ago, might be just the song I wanted to hear. "We'll Sing in the Sunshine" was written and performed by Gale Garnett. The Folk singer/songwriter was born in New Zealand, but moved to Canada with her family when she was 11 years old. While music was the focus of her career, she also did some acting. But it was with this song that she scored her biggest success, earning the #4 spot on the Billboard Hot 100 in September of 1964. This is Gale Garnett singing "We'll Sing in the Sunshine".

Have a great weekend!

Celebrating Doris Day

Born Doris Mary Ann Kappelhoff on April 3, 1922, this past Thursday Doris Day turned 92 years old. (Wikipedia says 1922, but IMDB says 1924, so I might be wrong there.) I remember being a child, and watching Day movies with my mother. She was often in comedies with handsome men, like Rock Hudson, Cary Grant, Rod Taylor and James Garner, who also piqued my interest. Sometimes she sang, both slow ballads and uptempo numbers. But no matter what she was doing, I remember loving every minute of it. I think it helped my mother seemed to love her as well, and often said people said she looked like Doris. Several decades later, I remember those times, and still stop channel surfing to watch Day in a film when it is playing on TCM.

Doris Day also had a career as a singer, starting off as a big band singer in 1939, first being hired by Barney Rapp to front his band. Doris also went on to work with bandleaders Jimmy James, Bob Crosby, and Les Brown. I will start with a recording with Day did with bandleader Brown, "Till The End of Time". The song was written by lyricist Buddy Kaye and composer Ted Mossman in 1945, the same year it was recorded by Brown and Day. This is "Till The End of Time" as released by Les Brown and his band of Renown with singer Doris Day.

The next song had music by Vincent Youmans and lyrics by Irving Caesar, and was written for the 1925 musical 'No, No, Nanette'. The version of "I Want to be Happy" I am most familiar with is more than likely the one by Benny Goodman, but since it has been covered by so many, it is tough to say my favorite. Day had started working with the Page Cavanaugh Trio in the late 1940s, and they made some great music. In 1950, Day recorded it for the album 'Tea for Two'. This is Doris Day singing "I Want To Be Happy" with the Page Cavanaugh Trio.

"Make Someone Happy" was found in a Broadway show with music by the great Jule Styne, and lyrics by the fantastic Betty Comden and Adolph Green. The show was 'Do Re Mi', and it played on Broadway in 1960. Immediately, some of he great talents were lining up to record the song. Day did just that, putting it on her 1960 album 'Bright and Shiny'. It was a great fit for her voice. This is Doris Day singing "Make Someone Happy", recorded with Neal Hefti and His Orchestra.

The last song on this post is a fun one, off the 1964 release 'Latin for Lovers'. "Quizás, quizás, quizás" is a popular song by Cuban songwriter Osvaldo Farrés. The song was a hit in 1947 for singer Bobby Capó. English lyrics were written by Joe Davis, which were not a translation, but a new set of lyrics. That version, known as "Perhaps Perhaps Perhaps", was first sung by Desi Arnez in 1948, and was quickly recorded by several others. Day was not the first in line, for it took 16 years for her version, but it was worth the wait. This is Doris Day singing "Perhaps Perhaps Perhaps".

So Happy Birthday, Doris Day! For more information about Doris Day, visit her official website. In 2012, to mark her 90/88th birthday, the collection 'With a Smile and a Song' was released, containing some great music. You can find it on iTunes and Amazon.

Twinn Connexion • Turn Down Day

Identical twins Jay and Jerry Hopkins were born and raised in Helena, Montana, where they began their careers in entertainment, studying and appearing in musical theater. It was not long before the boys moved to New York City to pursue their dreams, and they were discovered by an music executive as they were performing together in Greenwich Village. Soon, Twinn Connexion was signed by Columbia Records, and then Decca. They also had a manager who believed in them, Bob Cessna. Their music was a frothy combination of Pop and Rock, and is now considered in the forefront of the 'Sunshine Pop' movement. In 1968, they released the eponymous album, and had some moderate success. This is the track "Turn Down Day", off the 1968 album, 'Twinn Connexion'. The song was originally written and released by The Cyrkle in 1966.

That recording was nominated for a Grammy Award. It was a time that Decca was going through some changes, and promotions were cut. Soon, Jay and Jerry found themselves out of the music business. Jerry went to art school, and Jay started his career as a stock broker. Jay passed away in 2001, after having a successful career on Wall Street. Jerry became a noted artist, living in Woodstock, New York, with longtime partner Bob Cessna. They were together for 44 years, when he passed away in 2008. Jerry decided to give some time to music once again, and put together a record of demos and unreleased material for the Twinn Connexion. That album is 'Songs From the Heart', and it is great fun. To learn more about Twinn Connexion, visit their official website. You can also connect with Jerry Hopkins on Facebook, as well as 'follow' him on Twitter. To purchase the music of Twinn Connexion, you can find them on Amazon.

Cilla Black • Anyone Who Had A Heart

The year was 1964, and Burt Bacharach and Hal David had a firm handle on the music charts around the world. In facto, some might say that the duo had a firm grip on the hearts of the music fans everywhere, with hits being written from Marty Robbins, Perry Como, Johnny Mathis, The Shirelles, The Drifters, Gene Pitney, Bobby Vinton, Dusty Springfield, Andy Williams, and Dionne Warwick, among others. Soon to join the club would be an English singer with a big voice and an engaging personality. Just as Warwick was releasing the song, Cilla Black recorded "Anyone Who Had A Heart" in the Abbey Road Studios in London. Black created a sensation, and had her first #1 hit with the song. This is Cilla Black singing "Anyone Who Had A Heart".

Have a great weekend!

Young Rascals • Groovin'

The Young Rascals, later known as simply The Rascals, were an American Rock band out of Garfield, NJ, that came to the attention of fans in the mid 1960s. Their first hit was the 1965 release, "Good Lovin'", written by Rudy Clark and Arthur Resnick. The band was made up by Eddie Brigati on vocals, Felix Cavaliere on keyboards, Gene Cornish on guitar, and Dino Danelli on drums. Many of their songs were written by Brigati and Caraliere, including "Groovin'", a song that spent four weeks at #1 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1967. The song was rerecorded for an album of the same name. This is the publicity video for "Groovin'".

The band had more hits to come, including"How Can I Be Sure" in 1967, "People Got To Be Free" and "Beautiful Morning" in 1968. That is the same year they started going simply by The Rascals. In 1997, The Rascals were inducted into the Rock 'N Roll Hall of Fame.

The Beatles • In the Beginning

Left to right:Paul McCartney, John Lennon, Pete Best, and George Harrison.

In 1961, Tony Sheridan and the Beat Brothers released a recording of "My Bonnie", a modern take on the Scottish folk favorite, "My Bonnie Lies Over the Ocean". What makes this to be something of interest to most people is the fact that the Beat Brothers were not always known by that name. Soon they would become famous world-wide as The Beatles. John Lennon, Paul McCartney, George Harrison, and Pete Best played with Tony Sheridan, an English Rock 'N Roller on an album, most notably the Scottish tune. The song did well on the British charts, and also went to #26 on the US Billboard Hot 100 when released in 1964.The album was a combination of Rock classics, Blues favorites, and some traditional Folk songs. But the star of the lot was "My Bonnie", by Tony Sheridan and featuring the Beat Brothers.

While the song started out like a traditional Folk take on the song, it soon became a Rock song, influenced by Americans like Buddy Holly and the Crickets. You can find "My Bonnie" on the album 'The Beatles: In the Beginning Featuring Tony Sheridan', available on iTunes and Amazon.

Left to right:Ringo Starr, George Harrison, John Lennon, and Paul McCartney.

It was not long before the Beat Brothers had hooked up with manager Brian Epstein, changed their name to The Beatles, and set about recording their own music. In 1962, the band released their first single, which also happened to be the first of their songs penned by Lennon and McCartney. "Love Me Do" was met with some success, especially considering it was their first ever. And when it was re-released in 1964, the song went to #1 on the US Billboard Hot 100. This is John, Paul, George and new drummer Ringo Starr singing "Love Me Do".

The song on the B-side of "Love Me Do" was another track written by Lennon and McCartney, already showing the way the two boys from Liverpool were taking over Pop music. "PS I Love You" was also met with much praise, and had a life of it's own. While not meant as a single early on, the song did go to #10 on the US Billboard Hot 100 in 1964. The simple love song charmed it's way into be a favorite fo many Beatles fans around the world. Interestingly enough, record producer George Martin was not sold on Ringo, and brought in drummer Andy White to play on this track, while Starr shook the maracas. While Martin remained unsure, once the fans and the other members of the band got behind him, Ringo found his place. This is The Beatles singing "PS I Love You".

Needless to say, this was just the start of an incredible journey of four boys from Liverpool, England. It wasn't long before they were ruling the world of music. On February 9, 1964, The Beatles appeared on 'The Ed Sullivan Show', and the screaming girls in the audience were signals that music was never going to be the same again. Until they broke up in 1970, the band topped the charts and proved John Lennon to be correct when he suggested that the Beatles were 'more popular than Jesus Christ'. You can purchase "Love Me Do" and "PS I Love You" on the album 'The Early Beatles' from iTunes.

Dark Monday • Camelot

On December 3, 1960, a beautiful and popular musical opened on Broadway with a remarkable cast. With book and lyrics by Alan Jay Lerner and music by Frederick Lowe, 'Camelot' set out to tell the story of the love triangle between King Arthur, Queen Guinevere, and Sir Lancelot. With Richard Burton giving life to Arthur, and Julie Andrews to his queen, and Robert Goulet making his Broadway debut as Lancelot, people were intrigued with the show, and just how good it could be. Once it was running, there were no more questions, as it ran for more than three years, keeping audiences enthralled and fascinated by the story. The production won four Tony Awards, including one for star Richard Burton.

As he did win the Tony Award for 'Best Actor in a Musical' for playing King Arthur, I feel as though I should begin with Richard Burton. And I must be honest here, it is not like Burton was a great singer, but he certainly had a rich voice, with wonderful depth to it. He would basically 'talk' through his songs, but do it with great style. You can see that here with this clip of him singing live, even if it was not in costume as King Arthur. I hope you enjoy Richard Burton singing the title song, "Camelot".

It is hard to have a bad word to say about just about anything that Julie Andrews has done in her career, and this was no exception. While she was already a Broadway star, with popular turns in 'The Boy Friend' and 'My Fair Lady', Hollywood felt she wasn't a 'bankable' star, and did not use her in the film versions of the previous two, or 'Camelot'. Interestingly enough, her replacement in 'My Fair Lady', Audry Hepburn, needed Marni Nixon to sing the songs for her, and the film's Guinevere, Vanessa Redgrave, was not known as a singer. But no matter, for Julie was exceptional in the show, her voice a perfect match for Lerner and Lowe, who had also written 'My Fair Lady'. Sadly, I couldn't find a clip of her singing any of her songs live, but you will hear the greatness in Julie Andrews' recording of "Before I Gaze At You Again".

Robert Goulet was born in Massachusetts, but moved to Canada with his Canadian mother after his father passed away when he was just 13 years old. But he came back to the US, and met Lerner and Lowe in 1959, who were having trouble casting the role of Lancelot in their upcoming show. Apparently, he was the answer to their problem, for he made his Broadway debut in in the show. Goulet was a handsome man with a deep, rich voice that had the range needed for Lancelot. He wowed everyone, and it is easy to understand why when you watch this clip of Robert Goulet singing "If Ever I Would Leave You".

Together, it seems as though Andrews and Burton had a great time. In the second act, they had a charming number that can bring smiles whenever I listen to it. After all, you have 'royalty', the King and Queen of England, wondering what it is exactly the common folk did in their spare time. Burton proved to be a strong comedian, with a soft touch, and Andrews certainly kept up with him. This is Julie Andrews and Richard Burton singing "What Do the Simple Folk Do?".

It was said that after the opening of the show, the Original Cast Album became a favorite of President John F. Kennedy in the White House. It helped to add a mythic touch, and soon the Presidency became affiliated with the show, and was often referred to as 'Camelot'. You can find the 'Camelot' Original Broadway Cast album on iTunes and Amazon.

Mahalia Jackson • Great Gettin' Up Morning

When I think of great Gospel music, Mahalia Jackson is one of the first names that pops into my mind. There is a wonderful fullness in her voice, and an authenticity in her performances. You can most certainly hear it on "Great Gettin' Up Morning", a song written by Jackson, and released as a single in 1963. This is a wonderful recording of it, and I am thrilled to share it with you. This is Mahalia Jackson singing "Great Gettin' Up Morning'.

You can find "Great Gettin' Up Morning' on 'The Soul of Gospel, Volume 1' from iTunes and Amazon. The 20-song collection can be purchased for $6.99 and $5.99, respectively, and includes some of Mahalia's great songs, nicluding "Joshua Fit The Battle of Jericho", "Down By The Riverside", and "Go Tell It On The Mountain".

Liza Minnelli • Ding-A-Ling

Well, I recently saw this posted on Facebook, and knew it had to make it to the blog, so it is only right to me it would appear on Christmas Eve. This is the amazing Liza Minnelli in a television special from 1966, 'The Dangerous Christmas of Little Red Riding Hood'. With music and lyrics by Jule Styne and Bob Merrill, who also wrote the score to the musical 'Funny Girl', it is easy to see why Liza signed up for it. This was, after all, the year before she had her first every credited movie role. It was the year after she was in 'Flora, the Red Menace', and was awarded the Tony Award for Leading Actress in a Musical. This television special was a new look at the Red Riding Hood tale, and starred Minnelli as Red Riding Hood. In the song "Ding-A-Ling", Liza is joined by Cyril Ritchard, who played the Big Bad Wolf. There is just something deliciously wrong about this song and number, and I can't watch it enough! This is "Ding-A-Ling", from the television special 'The Dangerous Christmas of Little Red Riding Hood'.

Have a great holiday!

Dark Monday • We Need A Little Christmas

Top: Anglea Lansbury in 'Mame'. Bottom, left: Lansbury with Beatrice Arthur.
Bottom, right: The cover of the Original Broadway Cast album.

In 1966, a little musical opened on Broadway, and, almost fifty years later, there are still people talking about it. Of course, when that show starred Angela Lansbury and Beatrice Arthur, with music and lyrics by Jerry Herman, that is something you might expect. The musical was also directed by Gene Saks, a hugely successful director who also happened to be married to Arthur. From all reports, Lansbury and Arthur were good friends throughout their lifetimes, and reunited to perform "Bosom Buddies" on the 1987 Tony Awards. But the real reason I am speaking of 'Mame' tonight is because this holiday season, it is time to celebrate. That is exactly what Jerry Herman had in mind when he wrote "We Need A Little Christmas", the wonderful song Mame sings to her young nephew during the Great Depression. Sometimes, people just need to add a little something extra in your life. This is Angela Lansbury from the original cast album of 'Mame', singing "We Need A Little Christmas".

And while I have featured a clip from the 1987 reunion of Arthur and Lansbury singing "Bosom Buddies", I thought I would add another nugget to the post, and allow Beatrice Arthur to sing her big song from the show, "The Moon Song (The Man on the Moon)". Arthur played Vera, best friend to Lansbury's Mame. Vera was an actress, albeit one who has a fairly big drinking problem. She also had a flair to pick some unusual roles for herself, like that of a lady astronomer. That is why she sings "The Moon Song (The Man on the Moon)", from the original Broadway production of 'Mame'.

Have a great holiday season! And if you "need a little Christmas", you can purchase the Original Broadway Cast Recording of 'Mame' from iTunes and Amazon.