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!

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.

The Voice Season 4 • Reive & Recap Live Playoffs 2

Last night, we had several excellent performances to kick off the Live Playoffs for Season 4 of 'The Voice'. Team Adam and Team Usher showed some talent, and a little bit of nerves. Can Team Blake and Team Shakira top those performances, having the chance to watch from the audience. Or will the pressure to match those add an extra layer of nerves to them all. Team Blake, made up of Justin Rivers, Holly Tucker, Danielle Bradbery, and The Swon Brothers, and Team Shakira, with Garrett Gardner, Kris Thomas, Karina Iglesias, and Sasha Allen, will be singing for your votes tonight. We won't know about the results until tomorrow night, but first, they must sing. And so they will. And not just the contestants, for we also find out there will be a special performance by Shakira and Blake, which should be exciting.

Left to right: Adam Levine, Usher, Blake Shelton and Shakira.

The competition starts with a clip of Blake taking his team to a karaoke bar, trying to let them relax and show the best side of them for the audience. They all took a turn at the microphone, with a time to sing, and to laugh together. This will prove useful as Team Blake sings "Boondocks" by Little Big Town. The harmonies on the chorus are wonderful, bright and strong. The solos were not as strong, just a bit rough. On the whole, it was fine, just unexceptional, and I will admit I expected more from them. And after a commercial break, it is time to Shakira to send out her first artist, Garrett Gardner. In his rehearsal, we learn Garrett will be singing the iconic "Imagine" by John Lennon. Shakira is looking for Garrett to take the song to a new place, to sound more rock anthem than ballad. First, let's hear John Lennon sing this classic.

This is a tall order for the 17-year-old, to sing a song as big as this, and to start the night to boot! He did a nice job, and changed it up just a little bit. He showed some nice color in his voice, and delivered some nice moments. It would be hard to not realize he was in the shadow of an icon, not in the sun like he should have been. But having said that, this is just the beginning of the night, and there are more performances to come. The first performer from Team Blake to have their moment in the spotlight is Holly Tucker. In her rehearsal, we learn she will be singing "How Do I Live", the Diane Warren song made famous by LeAnn Rimes. The original had such a distinctive sound and feel, for LeAnn has an incredible voice. But we also learn Holly has issues with her confidence, not with her singing, but the way she looks. Blake reminds her she is beautiful, and deserves to be there. As the song begins, she seems bold and in control of the song. She attacked the vocals, and it paid off for the most part. However, she lost a bit of control toward the end, and the final run was just messy to me. Her falsetto went awry, and you could tell she knew it. However, it didn't seem like Usher, Shakira nor Adam realized it, for they all praised her vocals, and told her she looked beautiful. Blake loved it, and thought she put her self in the position as one of the singers to beat this season. Next up, Kris Thomas takes his turn for Team Shakira, the man with the falsetto. He will be singing "When I Was Your Man", by Bruno Mars. Shakira is quite hands-on during the rehearsal, including singing with him! But first, here is Bruno singing his song.

Kris started off a bit nervous, feeling like he was standing back just a bit. But he warmed up into the song, but never fully. In the middle of the song, he picked it up and did a nice job, and never went off key, despite the nerves. Adam points out the nervousness, and would like to see him relax more. Blake, on the other hand, loved the nerves, for this is important and they should be nervous. Usher just thinks the man is a talent that should be recognized. Shakira was so very proud of him, and thinks he is not only a talented man, he is also a wonderful person, and she is proud to work with him. Next up, Blake works with The Swon Brothers, helping them prepare "Fishing In The Dark" by the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band. While Blake loves them, he worries about their vocals, for they can get a little sloppy. Right away, they are on their game tonight, the vocals tight and precises. They have an old-time Country feel that cannot be missed. Zack and Colton delivered. Usher loved them, and thought they were great. Shakira always enjoys them, and can't wait to hear them next. Adam also enjoyed them, and joked about how 'Blake' they were! Blake just loved they sounded fantastic, and taking care of all the notes from rehearsal. He is thrilled they stayed so tight. After a break, it is time for Blake and Shakira to put their money where voices are, and they sing "Need You Now" by Lady Antebellum.

I am really surprised, for Shakira sounded great on the song, really delivering the goods. Blake stayed in the background at first, but really came to life on his solo vocals, delivered so very strong and clear. This was a charming performance, one I liked even better than the Usher/Adam duet last night. Karina Iglesias is up next for Team Shakira, singing "Let's Stay Together" by the Reverend Al Green. Shakira loves the soulfulness in Karina's voice, and thinks this will make it stand out. She starts off the performance well, already showing more control and strength in her voice than her last time out. There is a nice soulful sound in her voice, and she delivers a strong performance. Adam loved her, and thought she was fantastic. Blake loved it, thought it was so intense. Shakira is so proud, feeling she left it all on the stage with that song. After the break, we come back to see Blake rehearsing with Justin Rivers, preparing to sing "Meet In The Middle" by Diamond Rio. Blake warns him to relax his airways, and give more life to the vowels. Before he sings, this is Diamond Rio singing "Meet In The Middle".

Right away, I am not sure this was a great song choice for him, as his voice sounds a little shallow, a bit soft, and is swallowed a bit by the band. But midway through, he relaxes just a bit and his performance comes to life. His voice adds some richness, with some depth to it as well. He was most definitely better by the end of that song. Usher loved it, and felt it was a real Country moment for Justin. Shakira loved it as well, and finds him to be a reliable performer. Adam loved when he really owned the performance later in the song, and it really came alive. Blake is just so pleased with his pupil, proud of how well he handled the whole performance. Next, we have the final group performance of the night as Team Shakira will take on the classic "We Are The Champions" by Queen. She brought her choreographer, Nadine "Hi-Hat" Ruffin. Shakira wants something unforgettable to happen. The song starts off well, each performer taking a solo. But the chorus together was a bit soft, and only Sasha Allen stood out for me. I suspect this was not the moment Shakira was looking for, as this was mostly forgettable. After the break, it is time for the last of Team Blake to find her way to the stage. But first, Danielle Bradbery goes to rehearsal to get some thoughts from Blake as she takes on "Maybe It Was Memphis" by Pam Tillis. Blake loved the song when it was a hit 20 years ago, and loves that Danielle is singing it now. But first, let's listen to Pam Tillis singing "Maybe It Was Memphis".

This is an excellent choice for Danielle, and her voice sounds beautiful and crystal clear throughout. She delivered the emotional texture to the song, and I saw nary a false move. Usher loved it, and Shakira was left speechless. Adam was loving it, and angry that she was not on his team. Blake could not be happier with her performance, and thinks she might very well be the most important artist on the show, for he expects much of her after the show. I can't be sure, but she could be the 'Carrie Underwood' for this show, a real star on the Country music scene. This leaves us with our last performer of the evening, as Sasha Allen goes to rehearse with Shakira. She will be taking on "Oh! Darling" by Paul McCartney, and performed by The Beatles. Shakira loves her, and just wants her to deliver the grit throughout the song. But first, here are The Beatles singing "Oh! Darling".

I have to admit, I love Sasha's voice, but the song started off just a little soft for me. But that doesn't last long. Her voice picked up such great depth and heft, and there is an amazing grit to her voice, such a desperation in her soul, I was crazy about where this song went. The end of the song was amazing, so raw and so real. I just loved this performance, and hope it pays off for her in votes. Speaking of votes, we will get the results from the performances tonight as well as Monday night, with an hour results show on Wednesday at 8PM on NBC. To learn how you can place your vote, visit the official website. In brief, you can vote via a toll-free phone number, online at NBC.com, with the special NBC App, or Facebook. Unlike some shows, the Voice limits the amount of votes people can place per method. You can vote 10 times per phone, or 10 times via Facebook, or 10 times via NBC App between now and 10AM Tuesday morning. The phone number is (877)553-37XX, filling in the 'XX' with the artist number. Those numbers would be Garrett 01, Holly 02, Kris 03, The Swon Brothers 04, Karina 05, Justin 06, Danielle 07, and Sasha O8. Now is the time to place your vote, and let your Voice be heard. Is there a song you are dying to buy off iTunes?

Great Music from Emmylou Harris

I have gone far too long without showcasing the great talents of the amazing Emmylou Harris. I have so much respect for her for so many different reasons, the first and foremost being her incredible gift, that gorgeous singing voice. She has a remarkable, crystalline tone, seemingly never veering off whether singing harmony or taking the lead on the melody. That has been the case for the last five decades, and shows no signs of it being different any time soon. Raised in a military family, Harris moved around a bit after being born in Birmingham, Alabama. While attending college in Greensboro, North Carolina, her interest in music grew, studying the music of the great Folk artists like Pete Seeger, Bob Dylan and Joan Baez. She left school to pursue a career in music in New York City, and soon found herself a single mother, having divorced her first husband. She moved back with her parents, now living in a suburb of Washington, DC. After a time to settle in, Harris began performing once again, and it wasn't long before she was noticed. Soon she was working with Gram Parsons, touring and recording with him. This was really Emmylou's introduction to Country music, as Parsons was noted for his Country, stylized with Blues and Rock influences. However, when Parsons died in 1973 of an accidental overdose, Harris was deeply hurt, but translated that into her music, writing "Boulder To Birmingham", an early signature song. But it was also time for a new direction for Harris, and industry insiders took notice of her work, and soon she was under contract with Reprise Records. And that lead to her solo debut, 'Pieces of the Sky'.

'Pieces of the Sky' was released in 1975, and was a stunningly beautiful album. There is such purity in Harris' vocals, and such an honesty in her delivery, it is hard not to fall in love. One of the great songs included on the album was "Too Far Gone", written by Billy Sherrill, best known for his work with the great Tammy Wynette. This is a gorgeous song, and was her first single. Although it didn't connect with the public in the 1975 release, it was re-released in 1978, and made it to #13 on the Billboard Country chart.

In December of 1975, Harris' sophomore effort hit the stores. 'Elite Hotel' was a great collection that featured two #1 singles on the Country charts, and three that made it to the Top 3. The first was "Together Again", written by the legendary Buck Owens. "One of These Days" made it to #3, solidifying Emmylou's position as a star on the rise.

The third single off the album was "Sweet Dreams", the great song written by Don Gibson, and originally made famous by the immortal Patsy Cline. While many would try to stay away from the shadow cast by Cline, it was not a problem for Harris, whose great version made it to #1 on the Billboard Country chart.

But sometimes, it is not just the chart-topping songs that take notice. Emmylou garnered attention when she recorded "Here, There and Everywhere", part of the great catalog of Lennon/McCartney songs, although it is rumored to be written by Paul McCartney, and credited to him and his Beatles partner. It appeared on the 1966 album, 'Revolver' before it was a part of the album by Harris. But Harris gave her own interpretation of the song, and showed off her ability to take a standard not written for the Country audience, yet give it new life.

In 1979, Harris released 'Blue Kentucky Girl', her fifth studio album with Warner Brothers/Reprise. Between the fourth, 'Quarter Moon in a Ten Cent Town' and 'Blue Kentucky Girl', she moved toward a more traditional Country direction. She also enlisted some of her friends to support her on the album, including Tanya Tucker, Don Everly, Dolly Parton, and Linda Ronstadt.

And while Emmylou continued to write and record her own music, she never stayed away from taking on an older song. One of those songs was the iconic "Save The Last Dance For Me", written by Doc Pomus and Mort Shuman, and made famous in the 1960 recording by The Drifters, featuring the lead vocals of Ben E. King.

I will admit I first came into contact with her on her work with Linda Ronstadt, one of my all-time favorite vocalists. She would often sing harmonies on her albums, a wonderful collaboration. And it is hard to ignore the Emmylou joined forces with Ronstadt and Dolly Parton to release two albums billed as Trio. There was some amazing work done there. For a great collection of Emmylou's early music, check out 'Emmylou Harris Anthology: The Warner/Reprise Years' on iTunes and Amazon. To learn more about her, visit her official website.

American Idol Season 11 • Top 3 Perform

What do Haley Reinhart, Casey James, Danny Gokey, Syesha Mercado, Melinda Doolittle, Elliott Yamin, Vonzell Solomon, Jasmine Trias, Kimberly Locke, and Nikki McKibbin all have in common? They all left American Idol just shy of the goal, making it to the final night of competition, and getting the chance to be the person called the American Idol. At some point in their respective years, most were considered frontrunners, and a couple were thought to have a chance to bring the title home. Some were seen as underdogs, but yet stayed in to fight with their talent, wanting to win. This season, who will want it more, and put down the performance that assures them a spot in the final? Guess we will have to watch and see.

The American Idol Top 3; Clockwise: Madcon; Mariah Carey; Bob Seger; Mary J. Blige; Matchbox 20; John Lennon; Etta James; Aerosmith; and the Jackson 5.

On Top 3 night at American Idol, the formula has stayed somewhat consistent over the years. The contestants get to choose a song themselves, the judges pick one for them, and the record executive, these days Jimmy Iovine, picks a song for each contestant. One was never sure how this would play out, for there were song choices by judges and executives that were at best confusing, and at worse seemed like sabotage. What will it be tonight? Can Randy, Jennifer, and Steven be trusted to choose the song that will work best for each singer? After weeks of complaining about song choices, can Jimmy I put his money where his mouth is? Will each contestant pick a new song, or will they just rerun a favorite they've already offered? After all the introductions, it is time to find out. We are reminded the remaining three went on trips to their hometowns, but no time to dawdle, for Randy, Jennifer and Steven are finding their way to the desk, and Crusty finds the spotlight..."This is American Idol." We are reminded the final performance show will be next Tuesday, and the results on Wednesday night, but first, we must find out who will be competing. After the first break, Joshua will be the first to take the stage. Randy was there to chose for the preacher's son, and had him sing "I'd Rather Go Blind," with music by Ellington Jordan, who gave it to Etta James when she visited Jordan in prison. She later wrote the lyrics, but gave credit to Billy Foster for tax purposes - wink wink. This is better than many of his performances for me, with a nice dramatic arc to the song. But the use of the old-fashioned microphone and the 44-year-old song just emphasized the anachronism that is Joshua. Will he be able to sing something more current? I don't know. Not surprising, the judges loved him, and gave him a standing ovation. They thought he sings this style so well. After Jennifer and Steven tell him he is wonderful, Randy mentions his hope that Joshua can bring his old-school stylings to modern R&B, which he feels is ailing. Ah, he is the savior for R&B. Stand back, Mariah Carey and Alicia Keys, Randy is sending Joshua to save the day! Soon Jennifer is telling us that she thought of the perfect choice for Jessica, who will sing "My All," written by Mariah Carey and Walter Afanasieff, performed by Mariah.



This is a lovely performance, but not much more for me. It is an odd song choice for a 16-year-old girl, and showed the amazing breath control of Carey, which Jessica wished she had about three quarters through. She gave it a lovely, sweet and ethereal treatment to a song that is about very real emotions. Randy starts it off by telling us that was the best a Mariah Carey song has ever been sung on television. Jennifer panicked when she heard Jessica struggle a bit, just realizing the song was hard - think you might have figured that out before assigning it to the 16-year-old? And Steven, well, he predicts Jessica will win. Wow. Speaking of Steven, he tells us he wants to hear Phillip sing the melody of a song again, so he picked "Beggin'" originally a hit in 1967 for The Four Seasons, featuring Frankie Valli. But Steven mentioned the cover by Madcon.



Pretty much right away, Phillip blows off the melody Steven wanted him to sing, and puts the song through the P2 processor. The song becomes a growl and a grind, with little to do with the original, like much of what he has delivered this season. The man with the gray on gray t-shirt and shirt blew them off completely, and the judges loved him for it. The audience loved him, too. When asked by Crusty who took the first round, Randy thought Joshua a hair ahead, while Jennifer thought it was Phillip, but Steven loved melody-challenged P2, but thought Jessica has the voice of an angel. To mark the beginning of the next round, we get some footage of Joshua returning home to Louisiana. People want to hug him, get his autograph, and have him kiss their babies. It is funny, for he seems to have a tough time processing the attention. But he still goes to church in a stretch limo.... But it is time for the contestant's choice, and he sings "Imagine," written and performed by John Lennon.



Well, this was interesting for me. There were some nice parts to the rendition, showing a sweet spot in his voice. There were a couple of times when he just exploded on the song, making for awkward transitions, a few "wet" catches in his voice. Of course, the judges loved it, with Steven suggested it was brought by a touch of God, and Jennifer thought it almost preaching. Randy thought it was very special. After a break, we visit Chula Vista, California, the home of Jessica. Her journey begins with a helicopter, and landing in the stadium she auditioned for the show. Soon she is on the radio, and there is a a huge crowd cheering for her. But she heads home, to see the family, and is quickly surrounded by fans at the local high school, and to the cheering members of the US Navy. Back on the stage, she is about to sing "I Don't Want To Miss A Thing," written by Diane Warren and performed by Aerosmith.



This must be odd, with Steven Tyler as a judge. It is interesting, for it certainly isn't as muscular as the Aerosmith version, but it does have touching moments. She is greeted by a standing ovation from Steven, and he tells her he loved it. Jennifer also loved it, and thought the final note was heavenly. Randy loved it too, and I am shocked we have yet to be put though any random verbal hand grenades. After we suffer through yet another Steven Tyler Burger King commercial, we visit Leesburg, Georgia, home of Phillip and the pawn shop he worked in. First thing I noticed is that Phillip is wearing a muted brown shirt, not gray! He seems surprisingly cool with the attention of the masses, and is seen wearing a purple t-shirt, and then a blue one. There is a beautiful moment with his Dad, and security pushing girls away... Back on the stage, we find out he will be singing "Disease," written by Rob Thomas and Mick Jagger (of Rolling Stones fame), and performed by Matchbox 20.



This is a nice acoustic arrangement, but even the laid-back version is swallowing his vocals. It totally lacked the sexy charge of the original. For the record, he once again muddles the distinctive melody of the original song, putting it through that processor that is P2. I thought this ended up being a bit on the anemic side, just a pale performance. Jennifer thought it was was okay, and Steven agreed with her. To make a totally strange moment, Randy agreed, although making a production of it. Well, with that over with, it is time for the picks made by Jimmy Iovine, the man in charge of Interscope Records, the home of the Idol winner. For the final performance by Joshua tonight, he picked "No More Drama," using samples from a soap opera theme song, and performed by Mary J Blige.



While I am not minding the opening of the song, the sudden and constant bouncing is distracting. Soon, he is peeling off the jacket, and tossing it aside. Not long after, I lost the song in the performance, a problem I have repeatedly had with Joshua. Mary J sang a song about the distractions of detours of life, and Joshua took it to the same place he goes with every song. I didn't feel the build, it seemed to be a leap over the moon from a stand still. Of course, the judges loved it, and thought it was going to church, laying it all out there. You know, the same thing they say every week. Jimmy I gives a thumbs up, and we can move forward again. Back in Chula Vista, we see Jessica get a text message, and find out Jimmy I picked "I'll Be There," was written by Motown's Berry Gordy, Bob West, Willie Hutch, and Hal Davis, and performed by the Jackson 5.



Jimmy thinks this can help her relate to the cougars in the audience, and still keep a youthful feel. I think this could be the best choice of the night, and Jimmy I should be commended. Jessica does a great job with it, and it was fantastic to not feel uncomfortable about her youth. She sounded beautiful, showing her beautiful tone. Steven loved it, as did Jennifer. However, Randy thought it was just okay, and would rather she took on the Mariah version, rather than one more true to Jessica. I have to wonder if Randy has any daughters... For the final song of the evening, Jimmy I selects "We've Got Tonight," written and performed by Bob Seger. This should be a good choice for Phillip, as it doesn't have a huge range, and allows for a lot of character in the voice. Jimmy I also hopes that Phillip will stick to the melody of the song, something he is hesitant to do. Well, what do you know, he is keeping with the original melody, and with just he and the piano, it is lovely. Soon he is joined by the orchestra, and it starts to spin wheels for me. The reedy and paper-thin quality of his voice is evident, and I was saddened. However, at the end of the song, he is greeted by at standing ovation by the judges, and all the stupid sayings that he has tortured us with for years. Jennifer let her hormones show, and Steven cursed as he said it didn't matter if the notes were hit or not, he sang the melody. Off key. Oh well. During the recap, I am reminded that this show has been about the boys in the last few years, so I suspect it will be Phillip and Joshua in the finals, no matter what the performances were tonight, for Jessica is missing the vital equipment. Even the judges seem to cheer off-key performances over the in-tune ones. As I had feared, the judges should not be trusted to pick songs ever again. I think Jimmy was good with 2 out of 3, better than the 0 for 3 of the judges. Tune in Thursday night at 8PM to your local Fox station for the results, or check back in to this blog to see who will be singing in the finals next week.

Worth Another Listen • Earth, Wind & Fire

When I hear the music of Earth, Wind & Fire, I immediately transport back to high school and a Social Studies teacher I had a Smyrna High, Ms. Pinkett. You see, Ms. Pinkett had a unique style, at least for this young man in the seventies. Ms. Pinkett was keeping it real, not letting the tradition role of teacher to take over her own personality. She was African American, but not the first African American I had as a teacher. But she was the first that would regularly use "Solid" in the classroom. And the first would would regularly quote 'the elements' in her class. Oh, she wasn't talking about the elements on the periodic table. No, she would quote the words of the songs of the elements, Earth, Wind & Fire. And one of the few Social Studies teachers I remember thirty-some-odd years later.



There are a couple of things I find remarkable about "the Elements." One is that they had many changes in the line up of the band so many times, yet the quality of the sound never changed. The first time I remember hearing Earth, Wind & Fire was in 1975 when they had their #1 hit, Shining Star.



In 1978, they brought another song to the Billboard Top 10, with a style only they could have. They combined Soul music with R&B with a Dance flair that was their own. They had their own take on the Beatles song Got to Get You into My Life, part of the great songbook of Lennon & McCartney. It was part of the Beatles' Revolver album released in 1966, and made it on the charts in 1976, a few years after the Beatles broke up. This version by Earth, Wind & Fire peaked at #9 on the Billboard Hot 100.



The next single released by the band was the iconic September. The song, written by band founder Maurice White as members Al McKay & Allee Willis, was quite popular in the clubs, as well as on Pop radio. Released around Thanksgiving, is certainly could be heard through the holiday season. It made it to #8 on the Billboard US chart, and #3 on the UK Pop chart.



In 1979, they had another string of hits, including what might be a ballad for Earth, Wind & Fire, After the Love Has Gone. The song was written by legendary songwriter/producer David Foster as well as Jay Graydon and Bill Champlin, and produced by founder Maurice White. The song did well at the Grammy Awards, as it was nominated for Record of the Year and won for Best R&B Vocal Performance by a Duo or Group. The song also won a Best R & B Song for Foster, Graydon and Champlin as its composers. It made it to #2 on the Billboard Hot Hot in the US, and to #4 on the UK charts.



To find out more about Earth, Wind & Fire, visit their official website here. You can find their music on iTunes here, and on Amazon here. The links will bring you to their Greatest Hits collection, and I know Ms. Pinkett will be thrilled you purchased it. And I hope she is glad I still remember her so fondly.

Happy Birthday John Lennon

His collaborations with Paul McCartney, as well as his solo work following his stint with the Beatles, Lennon must rank up there with Bob Dylan as one of the most influential songwriters of the 20th century. He was born on this day in 1940, and laid to rest on December 8, 1980, the victim of a a senseless murder. While he started out in the public eye as a mop-head singer in a pop band, he grew to become one of the leaders of one of the most celebrated rock bands of all time, as well as to to create some beautiful and interesting solo work. He also became an activist, speaking out for peace and human rights; and a celebrated father, taking time away from the music business to help raise son Sean; and a dedicated husband to second wife Yoko Ono. He admitted he had much growing to do, as his relationship with his first wife, Cynthia, and son, Julian, were strained because he had issues he needed to work out.



A large part of his work was written with McCartney while they teamed up with George Harrison and Ringo Starr in the late 50s. By the time the British boys made it to the US, the teens were clamoring for their music, causing quite the sensation. It was songs like this that enabled them to top the charts. Here are John, Paul, George and Ringo with Ticket To Ride.



When he went solo, he sometimes worked with the Plastic Ono Band, as well as working by himself, delivering messages of peace, love, and understanding. A classic example of this and one of my favorite songs is Give Peace A Chance.



Perhaps one of his most famous and celebrated songs is Imagine. It is constructed brilliantly, and the lyrics touching and poignant. Here is John performing it.



Happy Birthday, John! Hope there is a big cake with plenty of candles.

Peter Sellers Has A Hard Days Night

As part of the television show I covered last night with the ladies singing songs from the Lennon/McCartney songbook, I thought it might be fun to offer up a clip of actor Peter Sellers putting his own spin on the Beatles Hard Days Night. He, of course, does it as if he were one of Shakespeare's kings...

Ladies Sing the Lennon/McCartney Songbook in 1965

Clockwise: Lulu; Esther Phillips; Marianne Faithfull; and Cilla Black.

I was struggling a bit 1965, and then it hit me. Well, once I found a video from a show I didn't even know existed. The Music of Lennon & McCartney was broadcast in 1965, and featured several performers who recorded songs written by the legendary Beatles. The premiss of the show intrigued me, as I was thinking it was 1965, and some of their greatest work has yet to be written. However, they certainly had a strong enough collection to make it work, and in fact, had many songs left for a follow up at a later date.




I will begin with a performance by Cilla Black singing It's For You. It is the only song in this post that was not previously recorded by the Beatles. It was given to Cilla, who I hate to admit I had no clue of whom she was. She had a couple of hits in the UK, and eventually went from singer to performer to a top presented on the BBC. But in 1965, she appeared on The Music of Lennon & McCartney.



Like so many other people in this world, I adore Marianne Faithfull. She had quite the career in the 60s, as well as the most glamorous lifestyles, being Mick Jagger's girlfriend. She also sang a remarkable version of Yesterday, and did it on the show.



Esther Phillips was a remarkably talented singer I discovered with this post. It seems like so many people, Esther fought a particularly hard war with her demons, although it was the demons who eventually won. Here she offered up a gorgeous and poignant version of And I Love Him.



Lulu was a little girl with a big, big voice. Lulu had already had a few hits under her belt, and was still a few years from her biggest hit of all. In 1967 she released To Sir With Love, as well as have a featured toll in that movie. It topped the charts all over the world. Here is her version of the Beatles classic, I Saw Him Standing There.



Hope you enjoyed the trip down memory lane!

Worth Another Listen - Bruce Channel

Left to right: John Lennon, Bruce Channel & Delbert McClinton.

The song "Hey! Baby" in just iconic in so many ways. For many people, it is one of the American pop songs from the early 60s they remember. And for another generation, it was brought to their attention in the movie 'Dirty Dancing'. For others, it is a song that perfectly captures the transition music was making at the time. For another, it is a perfect example of one-hit-wonder, as the song hangs on in the psyche of pop culture, yet still few would be able to name the singer/songwriter responsible. But they would be singing along!

Bruce Channel was a working singer/songwriter from Texas, often working along side Delbert McClinton performing country music. In 1959, Channel worked with Margaret Cobb and together they wrote the song "Hey! Baby", which Channel performed at live shows over the next few years. Finally, in 1952, Channel recorded the song in the studio, and once released, it became a major hit.

With the success of the song, Channel and McClinton toured across the globe in support of the song. In interviews, Channel has often credited McClinton for the success of the song, saying it was the sound of the harmonica that did it. It seems McClinton's harmonica was grabbing a great bit of attention back in those days. Here is an interview Channel and McClinton did, referencing a tour date when the Beatles opened for them.

Channel was on the road for many years, until he decided to settle in Nashville, Tennessee, the home of Country music. There, he established a career as a respected songwriter, and was eventually inducted into the Rockabilly Hall of Fame.

Sunday Morning with The Beatles

I thought it might be ease into the Sunday morning with George, John, Paul and Ringo. That is right, I mean The Beatles! The iconic band of the 60s and 70s, known more, perhaps, for their rock and upbeat songs, had their share of ballads. On of the most love is This Boy, one of my favorite songs, was a B-side in 1963, but showcased the writing of Lennon, McCartney and Harrison.



This video uses the Beatles song Across The Universe, but uses images captured by the Hubble telescope, making this a true intergalactic collaboration. It was written by John Lennon in 1968, and certainly has the lyrical beauty of a Lennon classic.



And, finally, there is the beautiful song In My Life, here done with a video compilation from other sources, but a wonderful tribute to the band and this amazing song. The song was released in 1963, appearing on the Rubber Soul album. Written by Lennon/McCartney, is certainly showcases why their catalog of songs has become iconic.

Billboard Top Holiday Songs - #6

To continue with the Christmas celebrations, here is John Lennon and Yoko Ono, along with the Plastic Ono Band and the Harlem Community Choir taking the #6 spot on the chart with Happy Xmas (War is Over). He released the first version of the song in 1971. It is an incredible song written by Lennon.

Across The Universe by Rufus Wainwright, Moby & Sean Lennon

I could think of no better way to end my day of tribute to the birth of John Lennon than with something truly remarkable. In 2001, there was a televised special named Come Together: A Night for John Lennon's Words and Music, and among the featured performers were Sean Lennon, the song of John and Yoko. He performed with Moby, Rufus Wainwright and Robert Schwartzman. It is really something special.





He also performed This Boy with Rufus and Robert Schwartzman of the band Rooney. It is amazing how much the son reminds me of the father.

Imagine by Patti LaBelle

Not only did Patti LaBelle take part in what many still consider one of the seminal musical moments of the 80s, she also tackled one of John Lennon's iconic songs, Imagine, as only she can. So from the 1985 concert, recorded in the Philadelphia segment of the concert, here is the lady herself, Patti LaBelle.

Blackbird by Carly Smithson

One of my two favorites from Season 7 of American Idol - neither of whom eventually won - can be credited with another great moment on the show, and delivering a fantastic cover of a John Lennon song. Carly Smithson, the Irish lass who makes her home in San Diego, California, with her husband, left the show far too soon, but lasted long enough to give this very special performance of Blackbird. Even today, I marvel at her voice. Since 2008, Smithson went on to be named the lead singer for the rock band We Are The Fallen, and earlier this year they released their first album. I reviewed the album here, and the first video here. But here is Carly singing Blackbird.

Jealous Guy by Casey James

Another of John Lennon's songs provided for an amazing performance on American Idol, this one earlier this year. Contestant Casey James came out playing his guitar and laid down one of my favorite performances of the season when he sang Jealous Guy.

Imagine by David Archuleta

A couple of years ago on American Idol a young kid came out on the stage and sang with just the accompaniment of an acoustic guitar, making for a very special performance. David Archuleta has a beautiful voice, and really connects with the song in a way that was both surprising and moving. To Help celebrate John Lennon's birthday, here is that performance.

Good Night by Linda Ronstadt

One of my favorite female vocalists of all time, Linda Ronstadt recorded the gorgeous Lennon/McCartney song Good Night on her 1996 album, Dedicated To The One I Love, a collection of pop music sung in the style of lullabies for babies. It is just so darned sweet and beautiful, I find it hard to resist.

Chapman Denied Parole

Convicted murderer Mark David Chapman was denied parole for the sixth time for shooting John Lennon almost 30 years ago.



All I can say is that is seems appropriate to run this video, Instant Karma.

April 15 - Tax Day

What Better Way to announce the day than with the Beatles in cartoon form, singing about the Taxman. Here's to John, Paul, Ringo and George.