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DEAR JERRY: I have a very mysterious record, and would like to know what you make of it, especially after you just wrote about two Beatles records with some of the print missing.
Unlike those, being misprinted only on one side, my weirdo record has no song title or artist credited on either side. It says it's an RCA Victor Record Prevue of Coming Attractions.
Where the credits would normally be, all it has is “Release 50-49 47-3990.”
Making identification even more difficult is that both sides are unfamiliar instrumentals.
It's probably not as collectible as a Beatles misprint, but it would be nice to know what it is. —Lavern Dewey, York, Pa.
DEAR LAVERN: Shortly after RCA Victor introduced the music world to the 45 rpm single (February 1949), they kicked off the Record Prevue of Coming Attractions series, specifically to make dee jays aware of their latest singles.
For the first three years, they used the two-digit year and sequential number in the series. In 1949, the numbers began at 49-1 and continued until the end of the year (approximately 49-60). The same format applied through 1951.
This makes your record (50-49) the 49th Prevue disc of 1950.
Along with the Prevue “Release” number, the RCA selection, or catalog, number of the commercial single is shown on each promotional issue.
In your example, the selection number is 47-3990, the “47” being one of RCA's prefixes for 45 rpm singles. The 78 rpm of the same two songs is 20-3990 (“20” indicating a 78).
Even without much of the printing on the labels, knowing the selection number, and with an RCA discography handy, makes identifying the artist and titles a snap.
“Release 50-49” is by Larry Green and His Orchestra, and those mysterious instrumentals are “I'll Get By (As Long As I Have You)” and “Western Melody.”
Assuming the lack of essential details — artist and titles — is due to a printing mistake may be the real mistake.
Casting doubt is the recent discovery of “Release 50-50,” the very next number in the series. It is blank in the exact same places as 50-49. It seems unlikely the same error would appear on two separate releases.
For the record, Prevue 50-50 is Piano Red's “The Wrong Yoyo” and “My Gal Jo,” with a regular RCA selection number of 50-0106 . Here, the “50” indicates a 45, and a 78 would be 22-0106.
The Record Prevues by these colorfully named folks, Green and Red, both issued in December, were the last ones of 1950.
Since using two sets of numbers ultimately led to confusion, RCA Record Prevues made after 1951 retained only selection number.
Record Prevues, and a later series of “Dealer Prevues,” are either singles (two songs by the same artist) or extended plays (more than two tracks, by two or more different artists).
Some of the value of the Prevues is due to their being made in comparatively small quantities, but most of their worth is based on what's in the grooves — the style of music and collectability of the artist.
The Larry Green orchestral platter, in an easy listening style, is about $25, whereas Piano Red's blues entry is $100.
DEAR JERRY:Over 10 years ago, you listed the 10 top C&W artists with the most Top 10 hits.
One thing I noticed was that Dolly Parton was the only female on the list.
How has that list changed since then? —Arthur Gibson, Cleveland, Tenn.
DEAR ARTHUR: Not as much as you might think, though Dolly is no longer the only dolly in the boy's club.
Here are the current Top 10 makers, with their number of Top 10 hits now/then:
1. Eddy Arnold ( 92/92)
2. George Strait (85/64)
3. George Jones (78/78)
4. Conway Twitty (75/75)
5. Merle Haggard (71/71)
6. Reba McEntire (59/52)
7. Ernest Tubb (58/58)
8. Red Foley (56/56)
9. Dolly Parton (55/55)
10. Waylon Jennings (54/53)
10. Webb Pierce (54/54)
IZ ZAT SO? Except for the top two slots on the above list — where Eddy and George will most likely flip-flop — very few changes are expected during this decade. We will update it when we reach the 2020s.
As for No. 1 Billboard C&W hits, George Strait leads the pack with 44, four more than runner-up Conway Twitty.
In this category, there doesn't seem to be anyone with a chance to catch Strait, whose 45th No. 1 hit (“Love's Gonna Make It Alright”) may be just weeks away. It's No. 8 and rising as of this writing.
Jerry Osborne answers as many questions as possible through this column. Write Jerry at: Box 255, Port Townsend, WA 98368 E-mail: jpo@olympus.net Visit his Web site: www.jerryosborne.com
All values quoted in this column are for near-mint condition.
Copyright 2011 Osborne Enterprises- Reprinted By Exclusive Permission
a wisconsin record store maintains the vinyl allure for many in the madison area:
B-Sides navigates tricky waters of music industry for 30 years
By Samuel Schmitt
In the era of digital downloads, instant file sharing and a slew of portable music players, it is a rare occurrence to stumble upon a store that is dedicated to selling tangible discs, especially of the vinyl variety.
B-Side Records, a locally-owned record store on State Street, has been around long enough to witness the evolution of several musical formats, with the store nearing its 30-year anniversary this coming October.
The name, B-Side, fits the nature of the store. For those born in the era of Walkmans and cassettes, or perhaps even after that, the B-side of a record refers to the opposite side of a vinyl, where songs that were less likely to be aired on the radio were placed.
In an email interview with The Badger Herald, owner Steve Manley explained how he got started in the business and how it has changed over the past decades.
Vinyl records may seem like something your grandparents used to have stacked in a corner. They are sure to conjure up memories of records that you weren’t allowed to touch due to the delicate nature of the record and outer artwork, however records aren’t just for old folks anymore—they’re making a comeback. There is no better city to visit when looking for the best selection of old and new vinyl records than San Francisco. The Bay City has always housed some of the best vinyls for decades, and with one of the widest selections when it comes to genres, you are bound to be amazed at what you can find
In the age of illegal downloading and iTunes, locally owned and independent music stores are becoming increasingly hard to come by. Somehow, though, D.C. has been able to sustain some great family and locally owned businesses, and it is definitely not lacking in vinyl shops. When you’re itching to blast your favorite tunes at home and plugging in headphones just won’t do, stop by one of these vinyl shops in D.C. to pick up music how it was originally intended to be heard
For music fans with vintage souls who enjoy collecting music the “old school” way, Philadelphia is home to a number of record shops that have a large number of vinyl records. Dust off your parent’s record player and head to any of the following record stores spread out through the city. These top record stores have a wide selection of records featuring classic rock artists, doo wop, and R&B and even present musical artists.
Alive! Peter Frampton Talks Classic Album and His Lost Les Paul
Michael Leonard
By any standards, Peter Frampton had a remarkable 2011. The veteran English guitar star and songwriter played a Frampton Comes Alive! 35 tour to acclaim, revisiting the album that made his name globally for a record that remains one of the best-selling live albums ever. The iconic 3-pickup Gibson Les Paul Custom played on the album became famous in its own right. And, after it was presumed missing for 32 years, Frampton got his Comes Alive! Gibson Les Paul back in late 2011. In a bizarre tale, Peter explains all below.
2012 will see more Comes Alive! shows from Frampton, plus much playing and writing (already started) on THAT famous Gibson Les Paul…
Vinyl Record Buyers Guide Magazine Goes to Quarterly Distribution
Once a semi-annual release, the "Vinyl Record Buyers Guide Magazine" Magazine goes to quarterly distribution, after accessing 1-Million subscribers.
New York, NY, February 21, 2012 --(PR.com)-- The "Vinyl Record Buyers Guide Magazine," a valuable tool for consumers seeking to find local and regional and online vinyl record and CD related music retailers and associated audio equipment and software, has reached a historic level of 1-Million subscribers who have requested to receive information on music and entertainment oriented sources.
As a consequence, the magazine, once a semi-annual distribution, will begin to send out its pages quarterly, beginning March/April of this year.
Readers can use the publication's vinyl record retail and record label and related vinyl record equipment supplier directory to locate hard-to-find modern and collectible vinyl records and their associated devices, including turntable, stylus, pre-amp, microphone and other related item manufacturers.
In addition, the publication has increased its news article reporting on the vinyl record industry. The first quarterly edition to carry articles on Jack White's "Third Man Records" and its efforts to diminish lost revenues for its music artists who lose income to the hands of eBay LP "flippers," and a review of the "northern soul records" phenomena, where huge prices are being paid for obscure vinyl 45 rpm records, due to their association to UK dance clubs in the North of England during the 1960s.
The publication helps guide readers to find modern and collectible vinyl lp, vinyl 45, hip hop records, indy rock vinyl albums, classical music, record stores, beatles albums, country music, jazz music, folk music, r&b artists, blues music, rock n roll music, heavy metal, funk, pop music, and more.
The "Vinyl Record Buyers Guide Magazine" is distributed across the U.S.A. to readers free-of-charge. To sign up to receive the magazine, please visit the website associated with this press release, where a subscription form allows consumers to subscribe safely, and know that their information will not be shared with 3rd party businesses.
THOUSAND FOOT KRUTCH Announce 'The End Is Where We Begin' Details; Release Planned For April 17th
TFK's 6th Studio Album!
FOUR TOP 25 ACTIVE ROCK HITS
NEW SONGS ALREADY PLACED ON ESPN, NASCAR, NCAA SPORTS AND MORE
"LET THE SPARKS FLY" NOW AT RADIO!
Sometimes the best way to move forward is to go back to the basics, taking all of the raw energy and emotion of the past and channeling it into the present. This is exactly what THOUSAND FOOT KRUTCH is doing on the aptly titled ‘The End Is Where We Begin’, which also finds Canada’s favorite modern rockers voluntarily walking away from record label life all together (even after a slew of profitable offers came along) to reignite the passionate DIY work ethos that first emerged over a decade ago.
While waiting for inspiration to arrive and fuel the writing process, TFK’s songwriter and front man Travis McNevan popped in the band’s seminal debut ‘That’s What People Do,’ which echoed respected rappers like Run-DMC and the Beastie Boys, cross-pollinated with the rhythmic grooves of Red Hot Chili Peppers. Those inspirations return throughout ‘The End Is Where We Begin,’ alongside the group’s continuously marinating blend of towering choruses, razor-sharp rhythms, epic arrangements and stadium shaking rumbles.
“Without trying, this record has a very militant theme to it, with songs like ‘War Of Change’ and ‘Courtesy Call’ painting more of a visual for that,” states McNevan. “There's an urgency to it and I think the timing feels right. This record's heart can be summed up by ‘Be The Change,’ the album’s lyric and phrase seen throughout the album artwork.”
For those who’ve been following the Ontario-bred players since their formation in 1998, it’s been a continuously escalating highlight reel that includes best-selling albums, four top 25 Active Rock hits (including the top 20 smashs "Move" and “Fire It Up”), plus a slew of soundtrack slots. In fact, the group has literally infiltrated every facet of pop culture, from ongoing ESPN placements, to various NASCAR, MLB, NHL and NFL airings (including the 2010 Super Bowl), along with the “GI Joe” movie trailer, WGN-TV’s “Smallville” and EA Sports’ “NHL 2010” video game.
That trend is continuing at breakneck speed with the new project, which even prior to hitting streets, found the lead single “Let The Sparks Fly” and fellow adrenaline-infused rocker “Light Up the Sky” picked up by ESPN. Both tracks also serve as the ultimate tone setters for the sonic explosions contained within ‘The End Is Where We Begin,’ which could be considered the ultimate THOUSAND FOOT KRUTCH mix-tape showcasing a myriad of full-throttled personalities.
THOUSAND FOOT KRUTCH is also already on tour in support of the new album as part of the REDvolution Tour alongside Red, Manafest, Nine Lashes and Kiros.
Here are the Top 10 Albums sold at Shop Radio Cast for the week of February 14 – February 20, 2012:
1. Blink 182 – Enema Of The State LP (Only 40 copies left!) 2. Blink 182 – Blink 182 2XLP 3. Blink 182 – Dude Ranch LP 4. Saves The Day – Daybreak LP (White) 5. Taking Back Sunday – Tell All Your Friends LP 6. Fun. – Some Nights LP 7. AFI – Black Sails In The Sunset LP 8. Joyce Manor – Of All Things I Will Soon Grow Tired LP 9. Lucero – Women & Work LP 10. Sleigh Bells – Reign of Terror LP
Swedish death metallers Unleashed have recently revealed the album cover art and track list for the band's new LP called 'Odalheim,' which is schedlued for release on April 20, 2012 (Europe) and April 24, 2012 (North America) via Nuclear Blast.
Tracklist: 1. Fimbulwinter 2. Odalheim 3. White Christ 4. The Hour Of Defeat 5. Gathering The Battalions 6. Vinland 7. Rise Of The Maya Warriors 8. By Celtic And British Shores 9. The Soil Of Our Fathers 10. Germania 11. The Great Battle Of Odalheim
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ROB ZOMBIE And MEGADETH Announce Co-Headlining Tour
Metal heavyweights ROB ZOMBIE and MEGADETH have just announced a co-headlining tour guaranteed to raise the temperature on the planet. The trek, which marks the first time the two bands have toured together, kicks off Friday, May 11 in Holmdel, New JerseyJ and encompasses high-profile appearances at several rock festivals, including M3 Rock Festival, Rock On The Range and wraps Saturday, May 26 at Rocklahoma. ROB ZOMBIE will headline Rocklahoma, co-headline Rock On The Range (with INCUBUS), and will close all shows on the MEGADETH dates. A complete list of dates is below.
CHICKENFOOT have set some dates for their "Different Devil Tour" in the spring. Supporting the band is BLACK STONE CHERRY.
Tour Dates:
May 04 - Lake Tahoe, NV @ Harrah's Hotel & Casino
May 05 - Lake Tahoe, NV @ Harrah's Hotel & Casino
May 09 - Denver, CO @ The Fillmore Aud.
May 11 - Minneapolis, MN @ The Brick
May 12 - Chicago, IL @ Chicago Theater
May 14 - Detroit, MI @ The Fillmore
May 16 - Boston, MA @ Orpheum Theater
May 18 - Atlantic City, NJ @ House Of Blues
May 19 - Uncasville, CT @ Mohegan Sun
May 21 - New York, NY @ Beacon Theater
May 23 - St. Louis, MO @ Fox Theater
May 25 - Thackerville, OK @ Winstar Casino
May 27 - Pryor, OK @ Catch the Fever Festival Grounds (Rocklahoma)
May 29 - Houston, TX @ Bayou Music Center
May 31 - Tucson, AZ @ Anselmo Valencia Amphetheater
Jun. 01 - Las Vegas, NV @ The Joint
Jun. 03 - Portland, OR @ Schnitzer Hall
Jun. 05 - Vancouver, BC @ Queen Elizabeth Theater
Jun. 06 - Seattle, WA @ WaMu Theater
Jun. 10 - Los Angeles, CA @ Greek Theater
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Iron Maiden Announces "Maiden England" North American Tour
UK metal icons Iron Maiden have announced the "Maiden England Tour" in North America this summer. Up to July 21, 2012, the special guest act will be Alice Cooper and after July 21, 2012, the band will be Coheed & Cambria.
Vocalist Bruce Dickinson had the following comments on the tour:
"We have great fun playing the History of Maiden Tours because it gives us an opportunity between new albums to go out and play songs from our earlier catalogue. It’s always fantastic seeing the crowd reaction from a new generation of fans who have never experienced some of these tracks performed live before, and of course we know our longstanding fans will enjoy seeing the original Seventh Son Tour re-visited - with many other surprises! Our intention is to play about two thirds of the original track list of Maiden England (shown below*), including some songs we have not played live in a very,very long time, plus other favourites we just know the fans are going to want to hear! We always try to give our fans a great show musically, but we have always tried to make it as entertaining and memorable an experience as we can visually. And we all feel this show is going to do that splendidly! We can't wait to get started in Charlotte."
Tour dates so far:
MAIDEN ENGLAND 2012 TOUR DATES: w/Alice Cooper:
21st June - Charlotte, NC - Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre
23rd June - Atlanta, GA - Aarons Amphitheatre
26th June - Boston, MA - Comcast Center
27th June - Wantagh, NY - Jones Beach
29th June - Philadelphia, PI - Susquehanna Bank Center
30th June - Washington, DC - Jiffy Lube Live
2nd July - Newark, NJ - Prudential Center
5th July - Chicago, IL - First Midwest Bank
8th July - Quebec, QC - Colisee Pepsi Arena
11th July - Montreal, QC - Bell Center
13th July - Toronto, ON - Molson Amphitheatre
14th July - Sarnia, ON - Bayfest
16th July - Buffalo, NY - Darien Lake Performing Arts Center
18th July - Detroit, MI - DTE Music Theatre
19th July - Indianapolis, IN - Klipsch Music Centre
MAIDEN ENGLAND 2012 TOUR DATES: w/Coheed & Cambria:
24th July - Winnipeg, MB - MTS Center
26th July - Calgary, AB - Scotiabank Saddledome
27th July - Edmonton, AB - Rexall Place
29th July - Vancouver, BC - Pacific Coliseum
30th July - Auburn, WA - White River Amphitheatre
1st August - Salt Lake City, UT - USANA Amphitheatre
3rd August - San Francisco, CA - Shoreline Amphitheatre
6th August - Phoenix, AZ - Ashley Furniture HomeStore Pavilion
9th August - Irvine, CA - Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre
12th August - Albuquerque. NM - Hard Rock Pavilion
13th August - Denver, CO - Comfort Dental Amphitheatre
15th August - San Antonio, TX - AT&T Center
17th August - Dallas, TX - Gexa Energy Pavilion
18th August - Houston, TX - The Woodlands
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and in music history for february 21st:
In 1958, the first Flying V, by Gibson, was shipped from a factory in Kalamazoo, MI.
In 1964, a New York band called the Echoes recruited a young piano player named Billy Joel. The quartet would play cover songs under the names the Lost Souls, the Commandos and the Emerald Lords before Billy split two years later to join The Hassles. He would make his breakthrough in 1973 with "Piano Man".
In 1964, the Rolling Stones released the single "Not Fade Away" in the UK, two weeks before it was issued in North America.
The Rolling Stones version of "Not Fade Away" was one of their first classic hits. Recorded in late January 1964 and released by Decca on February 21, 1964, with "Little by Little" as the B-side, it was their first Top 5 hit in Great Britain, reaching #3. In March 1964 it was also the Rolling Stones' first single release in the United States, on the London Records label, with "I Wanna Be Your Man" as the B-side (briefly preceded by "Stoned", which had immediately been withdrawn). The single reached #48 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 singles chart. "Not Fade Away" was not on the UK version of their debut album, The Rolling Stones, but was the opening track of the US version released a month later as England's Newest Hitmakers. It was a mainstay at Rolling Stones concerts in their early years, usually opening the shows. It was revived in that capacity for their 1994-95 Voodoo Lounge Tour. Ironically the Stones' version, unlike the original, chooses to fade-out on the "not fade away" lyric.
In 1966, Elvis Presley began filming "Spinout," co-starring Shelley Fabares, his 22nd movie.
In 1967, Elvis Presley recorded "Clambake," the title song of his 25th movie, which also co-starred Shelley Fabares.
Also in 1967, at EMI's Abbey Road Studios in London, the Beatles finished recording "Fixing A Hole." Initial tracks for the song had been recorded at Regent Sound Studio on February 9.
In 1970, Simon And Garfunkel's "Bridge Over Troubled Water" entered the UK album chart at number 1, where it would stay for 12 consecutive weeks. It would return to the top seven times, spending a total of 41 weeks there over the next two years. In the US, the LP spent 10 weeks at number 1 on the strength of three Top Ten singles and was the number 7 album of the decade in America.
Also in 1970, The Jackson 5 make their TV debut on American Bandstand where they sing "I Want You Back".
In 1975, John Lennon released the Phil Spector-produced album "Rock 'n' Roll" after a much shabbier version of the material called "Roots" began to be marketed on late-night television."Roots" was music executive Morris Levy's version of the "oldies" sessions, which Lennon had been court-ordered to undertake as payment for appropriating a Chuck Berry lyric for the Beatles' "Come Together." Levy's copyright was judged to have been infringed by the line "Here come old flat-top, he come groovin' up slowly." "Rock 'n' Roll" was Lennon's last record before taking a five-year hiatus from the music business. In 2004, Yoko Ono supervised the remixing of "Rock 'n' Roll" for reissue, including four bonus tracks from the Spector sessions.
In 1980, Janet Vogel, who sang soprano for The Skyliners on their 1959, US number one hit, "Since I Don't Have You", committed suicide by carbon monoxide poisoning. She was 37.
In 1981, Dolly Parton topped the Billboard Pop Chart with her own composition, "9 to 5". The record reached #47 in the UK.
In 1981, REO Speedwagon started a 15 week run at the top of the Billboard album chart with "Hi Infidelity".
In 1982, disc jockey, Murray "The K" Kaufman, died of cancer at the age of 60. Kaufman's influence on Rock and Roll and its audience led the Beatles to seek him out when they first came to America in 1964. Kaufman's friendship with the group gave him cause to start calling himself "The Fifth Beatle".
In 1987, "Stand By Me" by Ben E. King topped the UK singles chart after it was featured in a movie by the same name. The song first became a hit in 1961.
In 1990, Milli Vanilli are awarded the Best New Artist Grammy. It would take until the following November for producer Frank Farian to confess that the duo of Fab Morvan and Rob Pilatus never actually sang a single note on their recordings, causing the award to be withdrawn.
In 2001, Johnny Cash is released from a Nashville hospital after recovering from pneumonia in time to accept his Grammy Award that night for Best Male Country Vocal Performance for his cover of Neil Diamond's "Solitary Man".
In 2007, after a Motown spokesman had said the film Dreamgirls had upset several of their artists who felt the label was falsely depicted in a negative light, Dreamworks, the makers of Oscar-nominated musical took out a full page ad in the movie trade papers The Hollywood Reporter and Daily Variety where they apologized to Motown Records, saying "Dreamgirls is a work of fiction. It is also an homage to Motown." Berry Gordy accepted the apology.
In 2008, a US music aficionado sold his collection of more than three million vinyl albums, singles and compact discs to an eBay buyer from Ireland for just over $3 million. An eBay spokeswoman said the sale is one of the highest ever for the online auction site.
In 2009, an exhibit of James Brown's personal belongings opened at South Carolina State University. The collection included photos, crystal-studded suits, and even the hair curlers Brown used to form his signature pompadour.
In 2011, the Cars announced that May 10th would be the release date for their first new album in 24 years.
In 2011, Boy George revealed a Culture Club 30th anniversary album and tour plans for 2012.
Aso in 2011, the Monkees announced their 45th anniversary tour featuring Mickey Dolenz, Davey Jones and Peter Tork.
birthdays today include (among others): David Geffin (69), Paul Newton (Uriah Heep) (64), Mary Chapin Carpenter (54), Randy Blythe (Lamb of God) (46) and Jerry Harrison (Talking Heads) (63)
Andre Cymone - Livin' In The New Wave
Andre Cymone - Survivin' In The 80's
Angelique Kidjo - Spirit Rising
Archers of Loaf - Vee Vee
Audrey Wheeler - Let It Be Me
Avan Lava - Flex Fantasy (EP)
Azari & III - Azari & III
Bad Weather California - Sunkissed (vinyl)
Band Of Skulls - Sweet Sour
Barna Howard - Barna Howard
Battles - Dross Glop 2 (vinyl)
Blood Sweat & Tears Featuring David Clayton-Thomas - In Concert
Bonobo - Black Sands Remixed (vinyl)
Bright Moments - Natives
Buckethead - Electric Sea
Burning Hearts - Extinctions
Busdriver - Beaus $ Eros (vinyl)
Caroline Smith and the Good Night Sleeps - Backyard Tent Set
Charlotte Gainsbourg - Paradisco
Cheap Girls - Giant Orange
Chelsea Crowell - Crystal City
Chieftains - Voice Of Ages
Christopher Paul Stelling - Songs of Praise and Scorn
Colleen Green - Milo Goes to Compton
Consumers - All My Friends Are Dead (remastered)
Cursive - I Am Gemini
Damien Jurando - Maraqupa (vinyl)
Damon Moon - Lungs, Dirt and Dreams
David Holmes - Haywire
Diana Ross - Diana Ross: Special Edition
Dirty Ghosts - Metal Moon
Dirty Three - Toward the Low Sun (vinyl)
Dodgy - Stand Upright In A Cool Place
Donovan - The Essential Donovan
Dot Hacker - Dot Hacker (EP)
Ducky - The Whether (EP)
Dustin Wong - Dreams Say, View, Create, Shadow Leads
Eddie C. Campbell - Spider Eating Preacher
Eddie Hazel - Game, Dames and Guitar Thangs
Emeli Sande - Our Version of Events
English Singles - Grey Skies USA (vinyl)
Eric Tingstad - Badlands
Fatal Lucciauno - Respect
Field Music - Plumb
Fionn Regan - 100 Acres of Sycamore
Frankie Rose - Interstellar (vinyl)
Fun. - Some Nights
G.G. Allin - Terror in America (reissue) (vinyl)
Galactic - Carnivale Electricos
Gary Husband - Dirty and Beautiful, Volume 2
Gemma Ray - Gemma Ray Sings Sparks (with Sparks)
Giant Sand - Black Out (reissue) (vinyl)
Giant Sand - Glum (reissue) (vinyl)
Gilbert O'Sullivan - Back to Front
Gina Forsyth - Promised Land
Grimes - Visions
Guy Capecelatro III - North for the Winter
Hilary Hahn - Spectacular
Howlin Rain - Russian Wilds (vinyl)
InMe - Pride
Isidore - Life Somewhere Else
Ital - Hive Mind
James Vincent McMorrow - We Don't Eat (EP)
Jeff Parker - Bright Light In Winter
Jim O’Rourke - Old News No. 7
Jim White - Where It Hits You
John Miles - Decca Singles 1975 - 1979
John Wesley Coleman - Last Donkey Show
John Williams and the Boston Pops Orchestra - A Celebration
Jonquil - Point of Go
Josh Ritter - Bringing in the Darlings
Kevn Kinney & Golden Palominos - A Good Country Mile
La Big Vic - Dub the World!: Actually Revisited
Lambchop - Mr. M
Lana Del Rey - Born to Die
Leland Sundries - The Foundry (EP)
Loudness - Lightning Strikes / Loud 'n' Rare
Masaki Bartoh - Brain Pulse Music (vinyl)
Matthew Bourne - Montauk Variations
Matthew Friedberger - Arrested on Charges of Unemployment (vinyl)
Max Raabe and His Palast Orchester - One Cannot Kiss Alone
McGough & McGear - McGough & McGear
Mel Brooks - Greatest Hits
Memphis Horns - High On Music / Get Up & Dance
Moot Davis - Man About Town
Move - Live at the Fillmore 1969
My Best Fiend - Ghostlike Fading
Neal Morgan - In the Yard
Neil Young - Cow Palace 1986
Nervous Curtains - Fake Infinity
No Trigger - Tycoon
Pallbearer - Sorrow and Extinction
Perfume Genius - Put Your Back N 2 It
Peter Broderick - It Starts Here
Peter Schilling - Things to Come / 120 Grad
Phil Everly - Star Spangled Springer
Phoebe Snow - Phoebe Snow (vinyl)
Pontiak - Echo Ono (vinyl)
Porcelain Raft - Unless You Speak From Your Heart/Something in Between (7")
Princeton - Remembrance of Things To Come
Prinzhorn Dance School - Clay Class
Pulp - Freaks (reissue)
Pulp - It (reissue)
Pulp - Separations (reissue)
Pyramids - Pyramids (reissue)
Ramon and Jessica - Handyman's Honeymoon
Release the Sunbird - Imaginary Summer
Roger McGough and Mike McGear - McGough & McGear
Royale Canoe - Extended Play (EP)
RxGibbs - Future (EP)
Sara Radle - Same Sun Shines
Scorpions - Get Your Sting and Blackout: Live in 3D Blu-ray
Siinai - Olympic Games
Sinead O'Connor - How About I Be Me (And You Be You)?
Sleigh Bells - Reign of Terror (vinyl)
Spacemen 3 - Perfect Prescription (reissue)
Spacemen 3 - Performance (reissue)
Speech Debelle - Freedom of Speech
Steve Howe - Beginnings
T.S. Bonniwell - Close
Tall Ships - There is Nothing But Chemistry Here
Tanlines - Mixed Emotions
Terry Malts - Killing Time (vinyl)
The Hairs - I’ve Been Working (7")
The James Low Western Front - Whiskey Farmer
The Menzingers - On the Impossible Past
The Red Bird Girls - Very First Time in True Stereo
The Sidekicks - Awkward Breeds
The Strumbellas - My Father and the Hunter
The Ting Tings - Sounds From Nowheresville
The Vespers - The Fourth Wall
Thieves Like Us - Berlin Alex (vinyl)
Tindersticks - The Something Rain
Tortoise - Standards (reissue) (vinyl)
Various Artists - Complete Pop Instrumental Hits Of The Sixties, Volume 2 - 1961
Various Artists - Revolution! Teen Time In Corpus Christi (1965-1970)
Various Artists - Time to Go - The Southern Psychedelic Moment: 1981-86 (2-LP) (vinyl)
Various artists - Act of Valor
Various artists - Glam Rock Anthology
War - At War For Youth (7")
White Hills - Frying on This Rock (vinyl)
Wild Nothing - Golden Glaze (EP)
Wild Nothing - Nowhere (7")
Wooden Shjips - Remixes (vinyl)
Yalls - Fantasy (7")
Young Empires - Wake All My Youth
Young Liars - Homesick Future (EP)
Zola Jesus - In Your Nature (7")
Collector-producer loves feel, sound of vinyl records
By Rich Copley
Melvin Dillon doesn't hate the digital world.
A prominent feature of his apartment is a Macintosh computer with a huge monitor. Two magazines with late Apple co-founder and CEO Steve Jobs on the covers sit in a virtual place of honor on his coffee table. He pulls out his iPhone to make a new music selection on his stereo as he chats with a guest.
But as much as Dillon likes digital, he loves vinyl records.
Larger and more prominently displayed than his Mac is his record collection, from vintage vinyl and garage-sale finds to special vinyl editions of albums by bands like My Morning Jacket, Wilco and White Stripes.
"There's just something about hearing the pop and the crack and the warmth off the record — hearing the grooves of the record instead of the zeroes and the ones of a digital track," Dillon said, lowering the needle on his turntable onto one of his prized records, the vinyl release of Fleet Foxes' Helplessness Blues.
Jack White Will Make Solo Live Debut on Saturday Night Live
Jack White is set to launch his live solo career next month, performing on Saturday Night Live on March 3. The programme will be hosted by actress and tabloid fodder Lindsay Lohan.
White's debut solo album 'Blunderbuss,' self-produced and recorded at his Third Man Studio in Nashville, will be released on April 23. Of the album, he said it was a record he "couldn't have released until now".
He said: "I've put off making records under my own name for a long time but these songs feel like they could only be presented under my name. These songs were written from scratch, had nothing to do with anyone or anything else but my own expression, my own colours on my own canvas."
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album cover art for the day:
SONATA ARCTICA: New Album Details Revealed
Finnish melodic metallers SONATA ARCTICA will release their new album, "Stones Grow Her Name", on May 18 via Nuclear Blast Records. The CD was recorded in several studios all over Finland, mixed at Sonic Pump Studios by Mikko Karmila and mastered at Chartmakers by Svante Forsbäck. The effort will be released as a limited-edition digipak, standard jewel case, vinyl and download.
Read more and get the tracklist at our friends at Blabbermouth
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just a few of the new music releases coming up in march
New Music Releases – March 2012
March 6:
Every Time I Die - Ex-Lives
Obscura - Illegimitation (EP)
Bruce Springsteen - Wrecking Ball
UFO - Seven Deadly
Neal McCoy - XII
March 13:
Adrenaline Mob - Omerta
Cannibal Corpse - Torture
Epica - Requiem for the Indifferent
Impending Doom - Baptized in Filth
Sigh - In Somniphobia
Soulfly - Enslaved
Spawn of Possession - Incurso
Big Brother and the Holding Company Featuring Janis Joplin - Live at the Carousel Ballroom 1968
Doors - L.A. Woman: The Workshop Sessions (Vinyl-only extras from expanded edition CD)
Meat Loaf - Hell in a Handbasket
Bow Wow - Underrated
The Ting Tings - Sounds From Nowheresville
Shooter Jennings - Family Man
March 20:
Diggy Simmons - Unexpected Arrival
Odd Future - The OF Tape Vol. 2
Various Artists - The Hunger Games’ Soundtrack
Enthroned - Obsidium
Casey James - Casey James
March 27:
3 Inches of Blood - Long Live Heavy Metal
Borknagar - Urd
Cynic - The Portal Tapes (EP)
Deuce - Nine Lives
God Forbid - Equilibrium
The Mars Volta - Noctourniquet
Meshuggah - Koloss
Modern Day Escape - Under the Gun
Overkill - The Electric Age
Shinedown - Amaryllis
The Used - Vulnerable
The Veer Union - Divide the Blackened Sky
Chicago - Hot Streets (Expanded edition)
Quiet Riot - Live at the U.S. Festival – 1983 (DVD/CD)
Paul Weller - Sonik Kicks
Katy Perry - Teenage Dream: The Complete Confection
Lionel Richie - Tuskegee
THE PACERS How Sweet NM GUYDEN Doo Wop WL Promo 45 HEAR MP3
Sold Price:$2247.00 USD
Rockabilly, Jimmy Grubbs - Mac 468
Sold Price:$1975.03 USD
THE BEATLES - PLEASE PLEASE ME - ORIGINAL UK PARLOPHONE DEMO 45
Sold Price:$1897.80 USD
LISTEN - Very Rare Rockabilly 45 - G. Self - Roll On Big Mama - ACME # 1290
Sold Price:$1841.99 USD
JIMMY BURNS - I Really Love You / I Love You Girl. ERICA Northern Soul
Sold Price:$1771.28 USD
Rockabilly, Glen Glenn - Era 1086
Sold Price:$1702.00 USD
RIESIGE METAL SAMMLUNG LP,s 105St.Slayer,Death,Onslaught,Maiden,Forbidden1.pres
Sold Price:$1412.39 USD
CAPTAIN MARRYAT VINYL LP MEGA RARE PROG ROCK 1974 ALBUM THOR 1007 S
Sold Price:$1220.92 USD
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sounds like a sweet deal for musicians!:
GoogleNewssubmit Announces Music Press Release Submission Services
Musicians can now upload music to be heard around the world for $19
GoogleNewsSubmit, once the United States Fastest growing Online Distribution Services, is excited to announce to the world a Press Release Service designed for musicians. Musicians around the world are always looking for new avenues to get their music heard. Immediately available, musicians are able to submit a press release as well as attach a music video and/or music to their press release. As with all other press releases, each release is guaranteed to make Google News, and will make Bing News, Ask News and thousands of other online media outlets. The music press release distribution service will start as low as $19 for each submission.
Rebekah Hudson, Owner of GoogleNewsSubmit states, "We're excited to offer the cutting edge service to the thousands of musicians around the globe that are eager to let the world hear their music." Once they purchase a press release package, musicians can simply attach the mp3 or music file to be featured on the release.
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and in music history for february 20th:
In 1958, Bill Haley and his Comets, The Everly Brothers, Buddy Holly & The Crickets, Jerry Lee Lewis and Jimmie Rodgers all appeared on the first date of a six-day tour of Florida.
In 1960, guitarist Jimi Hendrix made his stage debut in the basement of Seattle's Temple De Hirsch synagogue. It was not a lengthy engagement however. He was fired between sets for "showing off."
In 1964, the Bachelors were at #1 on the UK singles chart with “Diane.” This was the Irish trio’s only UK #1 from 16 other Top 40 hits.
In 1964, the Beach Boys began recording "Don't Worry Baby." Brian Wilson said the song was his attempt to capture the essence of his all-time favorite record, "Be My Baby" by the Ronettes. It was released on a single three months later as the B-side of "I Get Around."
In 1965, Gary Lewis And The Playboys lead the Billboard Hot 100 with their first hit, "This Diamond Ring." Session musicians were used on the track instead of the band and Gary's voice was heavily over dubbed with other singers. When it came time to perform the song 'live' on The Ed Sullivan Show, Gary sang along with pre-recorded tracks as the Playboys pretended to play their instruments.
In 1967, Pink Floyd appeared at the Adelphi Ballroom, West Bromwich, England.
Kurt Cobain, the lead singer and guitarist of the grunge band Nirvana was born in 1967 (died April 5, 1994)
In 1969, "Goodbye Cream," the documentary film of Cream's 1968 farewell concert at London's Royal Albert Hall, opened in Baltimore.
In 1970, John Lennon released the single "Instant Karma!" in North America. Produced by Phil Spector, the track included contributions from George Harrison (lead guitar, piano, backing vocals), Billy Preston, Klaus Voorman, Alan White, and Yoko Ono (backing vocals). Business manager Allen Klein and several dozen revelers from London's Hatchett Club also overdubbed backing vocals. John Lennon had written, recorded and mixed the track all in one day on January 22, 1970.
In 1971, Yes appeared at Kingston Poly, London, England. Support act was Queen.
In 1971, Judy Collins enjoys her biggest chart success as her rendition of "Amazing Grace" reaches #15 in the US and #5 in the UK. The record enjoyed one of the longest UK chart runs ever, with an initial stay of 32 weeks, and coupled with many re-entries, totaled 67.
In 1972, in San Diego, Alice Cooper and Badfinger performed at the Convention Hall.
In 1972, Elvis Presley released the album 'Elvis Now.'
In 1974, Cher filed for separation from Sonny Bono after they had been together for 10 years and legally married since 1969. The final divorce decree was issued in June 1975.
In 1977, at the 19th annual Grammy Awards, statues were presented to Stevie Wonder for Album Of The Year for "Songs In The Key Of Life", and Best Pop Vocal Performance - Male for "I Wish". Best New Artist went to The Starland Vocal Band. Chicago was cited for Best Pop Vocal Performance By A Duo Or Group for "If You Leave Me Now" and Linda Ronstadt won Best Pop Vocal Performance - Female for "Hasten Down The Wind".
In 1991, Quincy Jones is awarded six statues at the 33rd annual Grammy Awards in New York City. Bette Midler's version of "From A Distance" is named Song Of The Year, Mariah Carey wins for Best New Artist and Bob Dylan is honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award. Other winners include Roy Orbison, Aaron Neville, Eric Clapton and Linda Ronstadt.
In 1993, more than 34 years after his death, Buddy Holly had the #1 album on the UK chart with the "Words of Love" compilation album. Holly reached the Top 10 of the UK album chart for five straight decades.
In 1997, Ben and Jerry's introduced a their ice cream Phish Food. It was named after the rock group Phish
In 1998, Bob McBride, the lead singer of the Canadian group Lighthouse, died of complications from his long battle with substance abuse. He was 51. The band cracked the Hot 100 with "One Fine Morning" (#24), on which he sang lead and "Sunny Days" (#34), which came after McBride left the band.
In 2003, the fourth-deadliest fire in U.S. history killed 100 people and injured 230 at The Station, a rock 'n' roll nightclub in West Warwick, Rhode Island. Ty Longley, guitarist for headliners Great White, was one of the victims. The fire started with sparks from a pyrotechnic display which ignited flammable sound insulation foam in the walls and ceilings surrounding the stage. The display was a gimmick used by Great White and in this case was set off by their road manager, Daniel Biechele. He and the two owners of the nightclub were charged with 200 counts of involuntary manslaughter, two per death. The owners, Jeffrey A. and Michael A. Derderian, were also fined $1.07 million for failing to carry workers' compensation insurance for their employees. In May 2006 after pleading guilty, Biechele was sentenced to 15 years in prison, with four to serve and 11 years suspended, plus three years probation. Biechele was released from prison on March 19, 2008. After changing their pleas from "not guilty" to "no contest," thereby avoiding a trial, Michael Derderian received 15 years in prison, with four to serve and 11 years suspended, plus three years probation, and Jeffrey Derderian received a 10-year suspended sentence, three years probation, and 500 hours of community service. Michael Derderian was released from prison in June 2009, receiving time off for good behavior.
In 2005, singer/actor John Raitt, father of singer Bonnie Raitt, died of pneumonia at 88.
In 2007, at the Toyota Center in Houston, Christina Aguilera began a 42-date tour, with the Black Eyed Peas and the Pussycat Dolls as her opening acts.
In 2008, a 1976 Rolling Stones album, bought at a sale for a little more than $3, sold at auction for $6,300. The "Black and Blue" album had been signed by John Lennon, Yoko Ono, Paul and Linda McCartney, George Harrison, and members of the Rolling Stones.
In 2011, guitarist Terry Clements, who backed Gordon Lightfoot for nearly 40 years, died after a stroke at the age of 63.
birthdays today include (among others): Nancy Wilson (75), Buffy Sainte-Marie (71), Jerome Geils (J. Geils Band) (66), Jon Brant (Cheap Trick) (57), Ian Brown (Stone Roses) (49) and Chris Thiele (Nickel Creek) (31)
Rare Vinyl Stamper for Beatles’ ‘Twist & Shout’ Fetches Big Bucks At eBay Auction
by: Joe Robinson
A very rare pressing stamper — the metal disc used to press copies of vinyl records — for the A-side of the original Beatles 7″ vinyl release of ‘Twist & Shout’ has sold for $3,499 during an eBay auction. The stamper, which comes in its original shipping envelope bearing the name of the manufacturer, AFM Engineering, is dated Feb. 25, 1964 — less than one week before the single’s March 2, 1964, release.
our friends over at vintagevinylnews.com have this sad news:
Michael Davis of the MC5 Passes Away From Liver Failure
Michael Davis, a member of the legendary MC5, has passed away from liver failure at the age of 68. His death was reported by his wife, Angela Davis, who said he had been fighting the disease for almost a month at Enloe Medical Center in Chico, CA.
REAL GONE MUSIC MARCH 2012 REISSUES INCLUDE B.J. THOMAS’ THE COMPLETE SCEPTER SINGLES, DAVID AXELROD, RICK SPRINGFIELD, FRANKIE AVALON, WISHBONE ASH AND THE TUBES.
Also, Clint Eastwood’s Cowboy Favorites to be reissued on vinyl for first time.
LOS ANGELES, Calif. — Real Gone Music, the reissue label that has won many critical kudos in its initial months of operation, has announced its March 2012 releases. Featured are B.J. Thomas’ The Complete Scepter Singles, Frankie Avalon’s Muscle Beach Party: The United Artists Sessions, The Tubes’ Young & Rich/Now, Rick Springfield’s Beginnings..., David Axelrod’s Messiah, Wishbone Ash’s Live Dates II and Clint Eastwood’s Rawhide’s Clint Eastwood Sings Cowboy Favorites. Street date for all is March 27, 2012.
From his 1966 recording of Hank Williams’ “I’m So Lonesome I Could Cry” through his 1972 double-sided hit single “That’s What Friends Are For”/”Happier Than the Morning Sun,” B.J. Thomas enjoyed a string of hits rivaled by few artists of that time. And the fact that he did this on an indie label, Scepter, makes the achievement even more impressive. Various compilations of Thomas’ Scepter sides have come and gone. But Real Gone’s 44-track anthology is the first to offer A- and B-sides of every one of the artists’ Scepter singles, including his 19 hits. Many of the B-sides never appeared on albums. DJ/journalist Michael Ragogna wrote the notes, which feature quotes from Thomas.
Frankie Avalon’s late ’50s/early ’60s recordings practically define an era in pop music. But while there have been many reissues of his legendary Chancellor recordings, his later output has proven elusive. Frankie Avalon: Muscle Beach Party: The United Artists Sessions features 20 stereo tracks recorded in 1964 and ’65. The set’s centerpiece is Frankie’s album Muscle Beach Party and Other Movie Songs, which features music from his films (notably a version of “Runnin’ Wild,” his spotlight solo in the Muscle Beach Party movie). In addition are his rare UA singles plus tracks from the soundtrack of I’ll Take Sweden, a Bob Hope comedy in which he co-starred. The set features liners by Tom Pickles and photos.
One might think that the debut solo album, sporting two hits, from one of the ’80s’ biggest heartthrobs would have been reissued long ago, but Rick Springfield’s 1972 Capitol release Beginnings... was indeed the “beginnings” of a series of misadventures in the music business that were to plague the singer until he broke through with “Jessie’s Girl” and a role on the soap opera General Hospital. Springfield had scored a major hit in Australia with “Speak to the Sky” (the song appears here in its re-recorded U.S. hit version) when he moved to the States and made Beginnings, but there was a serious disconnect between the music and the marketing. The label seemed bent on selling him as a Tiger Beat teen heartthrob but Springfield’s songwriting betrayed an artist with loftier ambitions, switching from Big Star-esque power pop (“Mother Can You Carry Me”) to T-Rexish glam (“Hooky Jo”) to McCartney-esque balladry (“What Would the Children Think”). Springfield left Capitol following disappointing initial sales; this album deserved a wider audience then and still does now.
Having previously set a Catholic Mass to psychedelic guitar in 1967 with the Electric Prunes album Mass in F Minor, in 1971 legendary arranger/producer David Axelrod went for Baroque and set Georg Friedrich Handel’s signature work Messiah to contemporary instrumentation as well. But he didn’t do it alone — frequent collaborator Julian “Cannonball” Adderley conducted the orchestra. The result was a record far more restrained, even respectful, than Mass in F Minor, with psychedelic guitar, a funk rhythm section, flute and electric piano contributing tasty, swinging instrumental passages. This cult favorite is given its first reissue here of any kind, with new liner notes and photos. Another Real Gone (ahem) resurrection, just in time for Easter!
Clint Eastwood has demonstrated a deep love and aptitude for music as both an actor and a director (e.g. Play Misty for Me; Bird) during his entire career. On Rawhide’s Clint Eastwood Sings Cowboy Favorites he is fresh from his success on the TV series Rawhide, crooning (and quite competently so) a collection of Country & Western favorites. Real Gone has added both sides of his 1962 single “Rowdy” b/w “Cowboy Wedding Song” to the CD release of this 1963 stereo album; the vinyl release (the album’s first-ever reissue in the vinyl format) features 180-gram vinyl pressing.
The fact that two albums by The Tubes, Young & Rich and Now (their second and third releases) have been out of print for years — and Now never even issued on CD in this country — is eloquent testimony to the fact that they are one of the most underrated bands of the ’70s (though not underrated by all — used CD copies of these albums sell for staggering figures online). Salacious Zappa-like satire? Check. Over-the-top theatricality à la Alice Cooper? Check. BOC-like hard rock? Check. Even avant-garde, Beefheart-ian atonality cropped up in unexpected places. The two-disc set features liner notes by Gene Sculatti drawn from a new interview with drummer Prairie Prince.
When a band has not one, not two, but three releases entitled Live Dates, it’s a pretty good bet that the band in question is pretty good in concert. And in the case of Wishbone Ash, that’s an understatement; various line-ups of the group have been rocking the globe with their patented brand of twin-guitar hard/progressive rock for 40 years now. Though Live Dates (1973) charted, and Live Dates III (2001) is well-thought-of by their fan base, it’s Live Dates II (released in 1980 and assembled from various 1976-1980 shows) that’s considered the real gem of the three; it ranks as probably the key document of the Wishbone Ash version 2.0 lineup of guitarists Andy Powell (he of the Flying V) and Laurie Wisefield, bassist Martin Turner and drummer Steve Upton. Real Gone’s reissue features the complete, limited-edition double-album of which only 25,000 copies were originally released, and only in the UK—80 minutes of guitar bliss on a single CD.
On February 19, 1878, Edison was issued the first patent (U.S. patent #200,521) for the phonograph. While other inventors had produced devices that could record sounds, Edison's phonograph was the first to be able to reproduce the recorded sound.
In 1955, Rock 'n' Roll was still in its infancy when 25 year old Joni James entered the US charts with "How Important Can It Be?". The tune would climb all the way to #2 and become the first of her seven Top 40 entries.
In 1955, Pat Boone released the single "Two Hearts," his first chart hit. It peaked at #16.
In 1956, Elvis Presley, billed as "Country Music's Mr. Rhythm," performed two matinees and an evening show at Fort Homer Hesterly Armory in Tampa.
Also in 1956, the Platters recorded "(You've Got) The Magic Touch."
In 1958, singer/songwriter Carl Perkins left the Sun label to sign with Columbia Records as their first rockabilly artist. His Sun labelmate Johnny Cash made the same leap two years later.
In 1958, Larry Williams recorded his composition "Dizzy Miss Lizzie."
In 1958, the Miracles released their first single "Got A Job," an answer to the Silhouettes' #1 hit "Get A Job."
In 1962, Chuck Berry began serving a three-year sentence in the Indiana Federal Penitentiary after being convicted in a second trial of transporting a minor across state lines for immoral purposes. (The first trial, in which Berry was found guilty was overturned after the judge was found to have uttered racist remarks.) He was released 20 months later.
In 1964, a British company shipped a half-ton of Beatle wigs to the US. An American reporter asked John Lennon, "How do you feel about teenagers imitating you with Beatle wigs?" John replied "They're not imitating us because we don't wear Beatle wigs."
In 1964, Simon & Garfunkel completed work on their original acoustic version of "The Sounds Of Silence" for their first album "Wednesday Morning, 3 A.M." The track was later overdubbed with drums, electric bass and electric guitar, all without the knowledge or participation of Simon & Garfunkel, and re-released as a single in September 1965. By early January 1966 it was #1 on the Billboard pop singles chart.
In 1965, at EMI's Abbey Road Studios in London, the Beatles recorded the John Lennon composition "You're Going To Lose That Girl."
In 1966, Lou Christie enjoys his only US number one record with "Lightnin' Strikes", a song that his record company, MGM, hated so much, they initially refused to release. Label head Lenny Shear actually threw the tape in the wastebasket and said it was "a piece of crap." After Christie's management team promoted the record themselves, it started to gain attention and three months later, Billboard magazine featured a picture of Shear presenting Christie with a Gold record. It became a #11 hit in the UK.
In 1969, in Memphis, Elvis Presley, with then-unknown pianist Ronnie Milsap, recorded Eddie Rabbitts' composition "Kentucky Rain."
In 1971, Paul McCartney's lawsuit to remove Allen Klein as manager of the Beatles' financial affairs began at London's Royal Courts of Justice.
In 1972, on CBS-TV's "All In The Family," Sammy Davis Jr. made a memorable guest appearance during which he gave the show's main character, white bigot Archie Bunker, a surprise kiss.
In 1972, as the debut single by his new band Wings, Paul McCartney released "Give Ireland Back to the Irish." It was barred from airplay in the UK since it was banned by the BBC, Radio Luxembourg and the Independent Television Authority. The record reached #1 on the singles charts in the Republic of Ireland and Spain, and despite the air-play ban still reached #16 in the UK. It peaked at #21 in the U.S.
Also in 1972, although he had written songs that were recorded by The Turtles, Rick Nelson, Blood Sweat and Tears, Lulu, The Monkees and Three Dog Night, Harry Nilsson had his only US number one hit with "Without You", a tune written by Pete Ham and Tom Evans of Badfinger.
In 1974, Smokey Robinson, Helen Reddy and Roger Miller are among the hosts at the very first American Music Awards. Created by TV veteran Dick Clark to compete with The Grammys, awards are presented based on record sales, airplay as well as votes. Among this years' winners are The Carpenters for Favorite Band, Jim Croce, Favorite Male Artist, and Tony Orlando And Dawn, Favorite Single for "Tie A Yellow Ribbon 'Round The Ole Oak Tree".
In 1974, KISS made their TV debut on "Don Kirshner's Rock Concert" on ABC.
In 1976, Rich Stevens, former lead vocalist of Tower of Power was arrested and charged in what was believed to be the drug-related murders of three men the night before in San Jose, California. The following November, Stevens was found guilty on three counts of first-degree murder and was sentenced to life in prison.
In 1977, "Blinded By The Light" reached the top of the Billboard singles chart for Manfred Mann's Earth Band, although it had earlier been a commercial failure for the song's writer, Bruce Springsteen.
In 1980, singer Bon Scott, lead vocalist of AC/DC, died when he choked on his vomit after an all-night drinking binge at the age of 33.
In 1981, five years after being found guilty of "subconscious plagiarism" of the Chiffons' "He's So Fine" in his song "My Sweet Lord," George Harrison was ordered to pay $587,000 to the plaintiff, ABKCO Music.
In 1982, Ozzy Osbourne was arrested in San Antonio, Texas for urinating on a statue in front of the Alamo. After he made bail, the Black Sabbath singer skipped town. Osbourne was subsequently banned from the city for ten years.
In 1998, country music singer/comedian (Hee Haw) Louis Marshall "Grandpa" Jones died after a stroke at age 84.
In 2004, the family of Johnny Cash blocked an attempt by advertisers to use his hit song "Ring of Fire" to promote a hemorrhoid-relief product, even though the idea had been approved by Merle Kilgore, who wrote the song with June Carter Cash. Johnny Cash's daughter Rosanne said the family "would never allow the song to be demeaned like that."
In 2009, bassist Kelly Groucutt, a former member of the Electric Light Orchestra (ELO), died following a heart attack at 63.
In 2010, in Miami, Gloria and Emilio Estefan gathered Latino musicians – including Carlos Santana, Jose Feliciano, David Archuleta, and Jon Secada – to record a Spanish-language version of "We Are The World" for Haiti earthquake relief.
birthdays today include (among others): Smokey Robinson (1940), Lou Christie (1943) & Toni Iommi - Black Sabbath (1948)
Los Angeles, CA Record Store High-Fidelity Announces Grand Opening in Los Feliz with Performance by Section Quartet & Special Guest Kevin Bronson of Buzz Bands
Los Angeles, CA, February 18, 2012 --(PR.com)-- L.A., CA Record Store High-Fidelity Announces Grand Opening in Los Feliz with Performance by Section Quartet & Special Guest Kevin Bronson of Buzz Bands LA – Saturday, February 18th
In an era when bricks-and-mortar record stores have been going the way of the dodo bird, it’s a bold endeavor to open up a vinyl record shop. But music lover and entrepreneur Michael Hobson’s strong belief that people crave a physical experience where they can consult with music experts and fellow music lovers led him to open High-Fidelity, a ground-breaking music store in Los Angeles’ trendy Los Feliz neighborhood.
High-Fidelity will hold its official grand opening on Saturday, February 18, 6:00-11:00 PM at 1956 Hillhurst Ave, Los Angeles 90027. The Section Quartet will perform their unique strings version of songs by Radiohead, Muse, Yeah Yeah Yeahs and more. Special Guest - Kevin Bronson of Buzz Bands LA will spin tunes throughout the night.
High-Fidelity is not only a place to find a rare selection of new and vintage vinyl, but also has a stage where bands can perform and serves as a community meeting point. “The name High-Fidelity is multiple entendre,” explains Hobson. “My background has been in making records that are the best they can possibly be. It’s also a small retail front for high-resolution technology, and a place of high-quality music and live performances. It doesn’t get much more High-Fidelity than that!”
Hobson, who runs the online vinyl record store TheMusic.com, envisions High-Fidelity as a community hub where people can hang out and listen to good music. “After Amoeba crushed everybody, we thought it was a good time out of necessity to open a retail store,” he says. “The online business was good but we need to have people browsing records. We looked into locations in Echo Park, Sliver Lake and Atwater Village. We finally found the perfect space on Hillhurst, in a neighborhood of people that have a sensibility about good things, of which vinyl is one.”
Hobson hired employees from Aron’s Records, the famed Hollywood record store that closed its doors in 2006, to run the shop. “They’re actually like Jack Black’s character in the movie ‘High Fidelity’ – they’re incredibly knowledgeable and they absolutely love music,” Hobson says.
High-Fidelity first opened its doors in November, and has been stocking its shelves with everything from rare Nirvana imports to Led Zeppelin reissues, as well as classical and jazz records ever since. Hobson says that the response to the store has been incredibly positive. “Los Feliz is a community of good, supportive people,” he says. “Lots of people have thanked us for coming into the community. There’s really something magical here.”
Due to Tony Iommi’s health issues, Black Sabbath have cancelled almost all of their planned 2012 tour. The legendary guitarist is currently being treated for cancer and will not be well enough to tour with the metal greats.
“Sabbath have had to put some plans on hold due to Tony Iommi’s battle with lymphoma,” says a statement on the band’s Facebook. “At this time, Black Sabbath will perform only one show of this summer’s previously scheduled European tour. It will take place Sunday, June 10 at the U.K.’s Download Festival.”
The second album from cult Post Rockers Mothlite and the band's Kscope debut.
The brainchild of the prolific and eclectic Daniel O'Sullivan (Ulver, Sunn O))), Guapo, Grumbling Fur etc).
Mothlite moves in different musical directions from those taken by Daniel's other projects, recalling the ethereal 80's sounds of Talk Talk, Japan and Cocteau Twins, and fusing them with an innovative, forward-thinking approach to programming and sound design.
The vinyl edition of comes in a 5 colour gatefold sleeve with a matt laminate finish. All vinyl copies ordered from Kscope come with a code to download the album, and the first 500 orders will come with an exclusive, limited edition 7" single featuring the radio edit of Something In The Sky b/w a cover of Why by Carly Simon.
Recorded & co-produced by Tony Doogan (Super Furry Animals, Mogwai, Teenage Fanclub, Belle & Sebastian), Fog Electric is an album of contrasts from a band of contrasts.
Timeless Rock influences collide with the latest laptop technology, amidst a combination of dark foreboding tones and blissed-out serotonin-fuelled pastoral sweeps.
Available in limited edition digi-book and vinyl formats.
All vinyl copies ordered from Kscope will come with a code to download the album, and the first 500 orders will come with an exclusive, limited edition 7" single featuring the radio edit of Soft Coda b/w a cover of One Good Reason (by Bob Mould).
wow, this coming to my neck of the woods, maybe a 3 hour drive, sounds like a plan!
IRON MAIDEN, ALICE COOPER, DEF LEPPARD, POISON Confirmed For Wisconsin's ROCK FEST
IRON MAIDEN, ALICE COOPER, DEF LEPPARD, POISON and GODSMACK are among the confirmed bands for this year's Rock Fest, which will be held July 19-22 near Cadott, Wisconsin.
The festival billing is shaping up as follows:
Thursday, July 19
BUCKCHERRY
ART OF DYING
DILANA
Friday, July 20
GODSMACK
FIVE FINGER DEATH PUNCH
HOLLYWOOD UNDEAD
HALESTORM
10 YEARS
BIG DEEKS
LIFE TRAGIC
Saturday, July 21
IRON MAIDEN
ALICE COOPER
PAPA ROACH
ADELITAS WAY
DORYDRIVE
Fox News looks at remarkable career of Glen Campbell and his battle with Alzheimer's
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and in music history for february 18th:
In 1942, the Mills Brothers recorded "Paper Doll." It was released as the B-side of "I'll Be Around," but became a hit when a disc jockey flipped it over. Recorded in 15 minutes, "Paper Doll" became the biggest hit of the Brothers' four-decade-long recording career. It rose to #1 on the music charts and stayed there for 12 weeks, sold more than six million copies, and was the biggest-selling non-holiday record of the decade.
In 1956, Pat Boone's cover version of Little Richard's #17 hit, "Tutti Frutti", peaks at #12 on the US Pop chart. Boone himself later admitted that he didn't even want to record the song because "it didn’t make sense" to him.
In 1959, Ray Charles recorded “What’d I Say,” in New York City.The song had evolved in concert as a call-and-response between Charles and his female back-up singers. It became Charles’ biggest hit to date, reaching #1 on the R&B charts and #6 on the pop charts.
After his run of R&B hits, this song finally broke Charles into mainstream pop music and itself sparked a new sub-genre of R&B titled soul, finally putting together all the elements that Charles had been creating since he recorded "I Got a Woman" in 1954. The gospel influences combined with the sexual innuendo in the song made it not only widely popular but very controversial to both white and black audiences. It earned Ray Charles his first gold record and has been one of the most influential songs in R&B and rock and roll history. For the rest of his career, Charles closed every concert with the song. It was added to the National Recording Registry in 2002 andranked at number 10 in Rolling Stone's "The 500 Greatest Songs of All Time".
In 1960, in Nashville, the Everly Brothers recorded "When Will I Be Loved."
In 1962, on weekend leave from training with the US Marines, the Everly Brothers sang their current single, "Crying In The Rain," on CBS-TV's "The Ed Sullivan Show."
In 1964, while vacationing in Miami during their first trip to the US, the Beatles were involved in a photo session with heavyweight boxer Cassius Clay (who later changed his name to Muhammed Ali). Clay said, "You guys got to be making a lot of money. You ain't as dumb as you look." John Lennon replied, "No, but you are." That night at a local drive-in movie theater the group saw the new Elvis Presley film "Fun In Acapulco."
In 1965, at EMI's Abbey Road Studios in London, the Beatles recorded John Lennon's "You've Got To Hide Your Love Away."
The song shows the influence of the American singer Bob Dylan. The song "is just basically John doing Dylan", Paul McCartney later said.
The song is in a folkish strophic form and uses a Dylanesque acoustic guitar figure in compound time, chiefly acoustic accompaniment, no backing voices and light percussion from brushed snare, tambourine and maraca.
"You've Got To Hide Your Love Away" was the first Beatles song to feature an outside musician (apart from "Love Me Do", the group's first EMI recording, in which producer George Martin had engaged a session drummer to substitute for the then-untried Ringo Starr). The basic rhythm track was recorded first, followed by George Harrison's guitar and some extra percussion. John Scott recorded a tenor flute in the spaces in Lennon's vocal track and an additional alto flute part, in harmony with the first, on the last available track of the four-track machine
In 1966, at Commemorative Auditorium in Sydney, the Rolling Stones began an 11-date tour of Australia and New Zealand with the Searchers as their opening act.
In 1968, David Gilmour joined Pink Floyd as the replacement for founding member Syd Barrett who had checked himself into a psychiatric hospital and then gone into seclusion.
In 1969, the Jimi Hendrix Experience appeared at the Royal Albert Hall, London.
In 1970, Rare Earth released the single "Get Ready."
In 1973, four men climbed onto the stage during an Elvis Presley show in Las Vegas. Fearing an attack, Elvis and bassist Jerry Schiff used karate to immobilize them. No charges were filed. Elvis told the audience, "I'm sorry, ladies and gentlemen. I'm sorry I didn't break his goddamned neck, is what I'm sorry about."
In 1973, Blood Sweat & Tears, the Mahavishnu Orchestra, and Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band were featured on the premiere of the syndicated radio concert series "The King Biscuit Flower Hour."
In 1974, KISS release their self titled debut album, but it will barely crack the Hot 100. It would take three more attempts for the band to establish itself.
In 1974, Ringo Starr released the single "Oh My My."
In 1974, Yes played their first show at New York City's Madison Square Garden.
In 1978, winners at the Grammy Awards included Fleetwood Mac, Album of the Year for Rumours; the Eagles, Record of the Year for “Hotel California”; and The Bee Gees, Best Pop Vocal Performance for “How Deep is Your Love.”
In 1980, during an interview, Rolling Stone Bill Wyman said that he intended to leave the band in 1982 on the group’s 20th anniversary. Wyman quit the band in 1993.
In 1987, Bon Jovi were at #1 on the US singles chart with “Livin’ on a Prayer.” It made it to #4 in the UK.
In 1987, Prince released the single "Sign O' The Times." He performed everything on the track except for some backing vocals by then-girlfriend Susannah Melvoin.
In 1995, guitarist Bob Stinson from The Replacements died from a drug overdose, his body was found in his Uptown, Minneapolis apartment.
In 1995, record producer Denny Cordell, who produced the debut albums of the Moody Blues, the Move and Procol Harum, died of lymphoma at age 51. After his early success in England, Cordell moved to Tulsa, Oklahoma and started Shelter Records with keyboardist Leon Russell, signing to the label J. J. Cale, Phoebe Snow, Leon Russell, Joe Cocker, and Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers, among others.
In 2003, country music singer Johnny Paycheck died of emphysema at 64.
In 2006, at Copacabana Beach in Rio de Janeiro, the Rolling Stones gave a free concert to a crowd of more than one million people.
In 2006, the surviving members of the Bee Gees, Robin and Barry Gibb, returned to the stage for the first time since their brother Maurice died in 2003. The pair reunited for a charity concert in Miami to raise money for the Diabetes Research Institute.
In 2009, his management team announced Michael Jackson's intention to auction off his American Music Award for "Thriller," his Gold and Platinum records, a Rolls Royce limousine, a customized Harley Davidson, a velvet cape given to him by his children for Father's Day in 1998, a pair of rhinestone-trimmed socks from 1981, a basketball signed by Michael Jordan, and his own original artwork.
In 2010, Gordon Lightfoot was headed to the dentist when he heard on the radio that he was dead. "It seems like a bit of a hoax or something," the 71-year-old singer said. "I was quite surprised to hear it myself."
birthdays today include (among others): Yoko Ono (1933), Dennis DeYoung - Styx (1947) and Robbie Bachman - Bachman Turner Overdrive (1953)
