Deep Purple - Lazy
Thursday, June 11, 2009
These days, if you buy a record, you might even get the chicks for free
This article is an interesting perspective on the state of our music industry today. I have always thought that downloading a song that you have not properly paid the artist for the right to have is theft, pure and simple. I have no problem buying music, I am not a rich man, but the singers and songwriters deserve to be paid, after all it is their profession.
by Grayson Currin
If, in the midst of this recession, you find yourself unemployed, broke and longing to hear Big Whiskey and the GrooGrux King, the eighth studio album from Dave Matthews Band, your most cost-efficient option is, well, to steal it. Search on Google. Download the torrent. Burn it from a more financially solvent friend.
Let's say you've got a few dollars, though, and you're not averse to the archaic notion of paying for music. Your cheapest options would be the biggest vendors: Digital files of the album are available for $9.99 via iTunes and Amazon, while the compact disc itself— tucked away in a generously decorated, recycled cardboard package—can be purchased at Best Buy for the same price.
Spend nothing or spend $10: Either way, it's far less than the $16.99 sticker price that many of the 900 or so remaining independent record stores in America—Schoolkids on Hillsborough Street, for instance—offers. But Ric Culross, a Schoolkids manager for nearly two decades, sounds satisfied with his store's sales of Big Whiskey in its first week. They've sold 28 copies, he says, and on Tuesday the phone was ringing constantly with people ensuring that both the album and a seven-inch record sporting its first single, "Funny the Way It Is," were in stock.
Read the rest of this intriguing article here:
Chicks For Free
by Grayson Currin
If, in the midst of this recession, you find yourself unemployed, broke and longing to hear Big Whiskey and the GrooGrux King, the eighth studio album from Dave Matthews Band, your most cost-efficient option is, well, to steal it. Search on Google. Download the torrent. Burn it from a more financially solvent friend.
Let's say you've got a few dollars, though, and you're not averse to the archaic notion of paying for music. Your cheapest options would be the biggest vendors: Digital files of the album are available for $9.99 via iTunes and Amazon, while the compact disc itself— tucked away in a generously decorated, recycled cardboard package—can be purchased at Best Buy for the same price.
Spend nothing or spend $10: Either way, it's far less than the $16.99 sticker price that many of the 900 or so remaining independent record stores in America—Schoolkids on Hillsborough Street, for instance—offers. But Ric Culross, a Schoolkids manager for nearly two decades, sounds satisfied with his store's sales of Big Whiskey in its first week. They've sold 28 copies, he says, and on Tuesday the phone was ringing constantly with people ensuring that both the album and a seven-inch record sporting its first single, "Funny the Way It Is," were in stock.
Read the rest of this intriguing article here:
Chicks For Free
Music News & Notes
Horse The Band Release Limited Edition 7" Of New Music
"Shapeshift (ft. Jamie Stewart)" is the first new song from Southern California quartet Horse the band's upcoming Vagrant full-length, "Desperate Living." The very limited edition 7" has been available from the band directly on their 6-week international tour and is now available to fans everywhere. The pressing was limited to just 500 copies total and the 7" clear vinyl features an exclusive "Shapeshift vs. Skrillex" remix by Skrillex (aka Sonny) on the b-side.
The band recently completed recording of "Desperate Living" at White Buffalo Studios in Los Angeles with producer Noah Shain and the record will be released this fall on Vagrant.
Horse the band began their international trek on May 8th and will be returning to the US at the end of the month. Their next hometown show will take place July 31st at the Center for the Arts in Eagle Rock.
=====================
Pinhead Gunpowder detail 'Kick Over The Traces'
Pinhead Gunpowder, the supergroup featuring members of Green Day and Crimpshrine among others, have unveiled details of their previously announced 'greatest hits' compilation. The anthology will comprise of 23 songs spanning the group's 19 year career, and is to be titled 'Kick Over The Traces'.
The compilation will be released by Recess Records on June 16, 2009, and will be available on CD along with 4 sets of coloured vinyl, limited to 500 each colour
1.West Side Highway
2.Losers Of The Year
3.Reach For The Bottle
4.Find My Place
5.Kathleen
6.Keeping Warm In The Night Time
7.Cabot Gal
8.I Used To
9.Before The Accident
10.Mpls Song
11.At Your Funeral
12.Anniversary Song
13.2nd St.
14.Life During Wartime
15.Landlords
16.Big Yellow Taxi
17.Future Daydream
18.New Blood
19.Beastly Bit
20.Swan Song
21.Train Station
22.Mahogony
23.On The Ave
=====================
Dream Theater Member Cuts New CD
Critically acclaimed keyboard artist, and Dream Theater band member Jordan Rudess is proud to announce the release of his new solo CD, "Notes on a Dream", featuring his unique and innovative piano interpretations of nine of Dream Theater's favorite ballads, and three completely original solo piano instrumentals.
Jordan Rudess first gained national exposure when the readers of Keyboard Magazine voted him 1994's Best New Talent in the Overall Best Keyboardist category after his first solo release Listen.
Steven Wilson of Porcupine Tree calls Notes on a Dream, "Amazingly beautiful. Reminds me of the very best of Keith Jarrett's piano music, and that's about as big compliment as I can give to anything!"
=====================
McCartney May Be Taking Catalog to Small Label
London's Sun is reporting that Paul McCartney has decided to bipass the big labels and license his catalog of solo albums to independent One Little Indian Records. McCartney's two Fireman albums (with Youth) were released on the label.
A source told the paper “He’s really enjoyed working with One Little Indian on his Fireman project, so didn’t think twice about giving them the responsibility of handling his solo catalogue too.”
=====================
Chickenfoot Debuts at #6
The new group Chickenfoot, made up of Sammy Hagar, Michael Anthony, Chad Smith and Joe Satriani, have put their debut album at number 6 on the upcoming Billboard Album chart on sales of 49,000 copies.
While that may sound like a paltry amount, only two albums sold in excess of 100,000 copies last week, the Dave Matthews Band's "Big Whiskey and the GrooGrux King" with 424,000 and Eminiem's "Relapse" with 141,000. It's then a huge drop to the number three position where 311's Uplifter sold only 60,000 copies.
Additionally, Elvis Costello's "Secret, Profane and Sugarcane" premiered at number 13 on sales of 28,000. That is the best one of his albums has done on the Billboard Album chart since 1980's Get Happy!! which went to number 11. His all-time best placement is 1979's "Armed Forces" which peaked at number 10.
=====================
Faith No More Concert
Mike Patton, Roddy Bottom, Billy Gould, Mike “Puffy” Bordin and Album of the Year-era guitarist Jon Hudson (stepping in once again for Jim Martin) returned to the stage after 11 years as Faith No More.
The volume was loud and the crowd response deafening, and while the set wasn’t faultless — the sturdy “Jizzlobber” went slightly wobbly at the end — the quintet avoided an obvious nostalgic greatest-hits set.
With a humble “It’s been very nice to see you, thank you and good night,” Faith No More made their exit, returning with Vangelis’ “Chariots Of Fire” and “Stripsearch” for the first of two encores. They capped the night with “I Started A Joke” and left for good after “Pristina.” It was a mix that accentuated the band’s glorious eccentricity: Faith No More were always left-field, yet inadvertently created some awesome songs with mass appeal. Last night was about a band rediscovering their special chemistry, and proving good music only improves with age.
"Shapeshift (ft. Jamie Stewart)" is the first new song from Southern California quartet Horse the band's upcoming Vagrant full-length, "Desperate Living." The very limited edition 7" has been available from the band directly on their 6-week international tour and is now available to fans everywhere. The pressing was limited to just 500 copies total and the 7" clear vinyl features an exclusive "Shapeshift vs. Skrillex" remix by Skrillex (aka Sonny) on the b-side.
The band recently completed recording of "Desperate Living" at White Buffalo Studios in Los Angeles with producer Noah Shain and the record will be released this fall on Vagrant.
Horse the band began their international trek on May 8th and will be returning to the US at the end of the month. Their next hometown show will take place July 31st at the Center for the Arts in Eagle Rock.
=====================
Pinhead Gunpowder detail 'Kick Over The Traces'
Pinhead Gunpowder, the supergroup featuring members of Green Day and Crimpshrine among others, have unveiled details of their previously announced 'greatest hits' compilation. The anthology will comprise of 23 songs spanning the group's 19 year career, and is to be titled 'Kick Over The Traces'.
The compilation will be released by Recess Records on June 16, 2009, and will be available on CD along with 4 sets of coloured vinyl, limited to 500 each colour
1.West Side Highway
2.Losers Of The Year
3.Reach For The Bottle
4.Find My Place
5.Kathleen
6.Keeping Warm In The Night Time
7.Cabot Gal
8.I Used To
9.Before The Accident
10.Mpls Song
11.At Your Funeral
12.Anniversary Song
13.2nd St.
14.Life During Wartime
15.Landlords
16.Big Yellow Taxi
17.Future Daydream
18.New Blood
19.Beastly Bit
20.Swan Song
21.Train Station
22.Mahogony
23.On The Ave
=====================
Dream Theater Member Cuts New CD
Critically acclaimed keyboard artist, and Dream Theater band member Jordan Rudess is proud to announce the release of his new solo CD, "Notes on a Dream", featuring his unique and innovative piano interpretations of nine of Dream Theater's favorite ballads, and three completely original solo piano instrumentals.
Jordan Rudess first gained national exposure when the readers of Keyboard Magazine voted him 1994's Best New Talent in the Overall Best Keyboardist category after his first solo release Listen.
Steven Wilson of Porcupine Tree calls Notes on a Dream, "Amazingly beautiful. Reminds me of the very best of Keith Jarrett's piano music, and that's about as big compliment as I can give to anything!"
=====================
McCartney May Be Taking Catalog to Small Label
London's Sun is reporting that Paul McCartney has decided to bipass the big labels and license his catalog of solo albums to independent One Little Indian Records. McCartney's two Fireman albums (with Youth) were released on the label.
A source told the paper “He’s really enjoyed working with One Little Indian on his Fireman project, so didn’t think twice about giving them the responsibility of handling his solo catalogue too.”
=====================
Chickenfoot Debuts at #6
The new group Chickenfoot, made up of Sammy Hagar, Michael Anthony, Chad Smith and Joe Satriani, have put their debut album at number 6 on the upcoming Billboard Album chart on sales of 49,000 copies.
While that may sound like a paltry amount, only two albums sold in excess of 100,000 copies last week, the Dave Matthews Band's "Big Whiskey and the GrooGrux King" with 424,000 and Eminiem's "Relapse" with 141,000. It's then a huge drop to the number three position where 311's Uplifter sold only 60,000 copies.
Additionally, Elvis Costello's "Secret, Profane and Sugarcane" premiered at number 13 on sales of 28,000. That is the best one of his albums has done on the Billboard Album chart since 1980's Get Happy!! which went to number 11. His all-time best placement is 1979's "Armed Forces" which peaked at number 10.
=====================
Faith No More Concert
Mike Patton, Roddy Bottom, Billy Gould, Mike “Puffy” Bordin and Album of the Year-era guitarist Jon Hudson (stepping in once again for Jim Martin) returned to the stage after 11 years as Faith No More.
The volume was loud and the crowd response deafening, and while the set wasn’t faultless — the sturdy “Jizzlobber” went slightly wobbly at the end — the quintet avoided an obvious nostalgic greatest-hits set.
With a humble “It’s been very nice to see you, thank you and good night,” Faith No More made their exit, returning with Vangelis’ “Chariots Of Fire” and “Stripsearch” for the first of two encores. They capped the night with “I Started A Joke” and left for good after “Pristina.” It was a mix that accentuated the band’s glorious eccentricity: Faith No More were always left-field, yet inadvertently created some awesome songs with mass appeal. Last night was about a band rediscovering their special chemistry, and proving good music only improves with age.
New Recordings Added To Library Of Congress
On June 9,2009, 25 new recordings were added to the Library of Congress' National Recording Registry. This is the seventh induction of new recordings, bringing the grand total up to 275.
Recordings by John Lee Hooker, the Kingston Trio, Link Wray, Etta James, the Stanley Brothers, the Who and George Jones are among this year's selections.
Librarian of Congress James H. Billington said: "This year’s selections lovingly reflect the diversity and humanity of our sound heritage where astonishing discoveries and a vibrant creative spirit seem to appear around every corner," said Billington. "Our daily lives and memories are suffused with the joyous notes of recorded sound, making these choices extremely difficult. The Library, in collaboration with others, will now work to ensure that these cultural touchstones are preserved for future generations to hear and experience."
Here is a list of the additions, it's great to see some obscure recordings, they need to and should be preserved and honored:
2008 National Recording Registry
1. "No News, or What Killed the Dog," Nat M. Wills (1908)
This recording captured a gifted monologist at his best and became one of the most popular performances on early records. The "No News" monologue, with roots in oral tradition, was one of vaudeville’s most famous and often-copied routines. The monologue unfolds as a piecemeal report by a servant to his master who recently returned from a trip, assuring him that there is nothing new to report from home, except that his dog has died. Nat M. Wills displays masterful comic timing as he slowly reveals, in a escalating hierarchy of domestic disasters, the events that led up to the dog’s death.
2. Acoustic Recordings for Victor Records, Jascha Heifetz (1917-1924)
Sixteen-year-old Jascha Heifetz made his debut at Carnegie Hall in October 1917. He was immediately hailed as one of the greatest violinists of the time, praised for his immaculate technique and exceptional tonal beauty. Soon after his debut, Heifetz started recording for the Victor Talking Machine Company, maintaining a relationship with Victor, and later RCA Victor, over the course of his career. The acoustic recordings, made between 1917 and 1924, were mostly light recital pieces with piano accompaniment. The Victor Records brochure promoting his first four recordings touted "his phenomenal technique, complete mastery of bow and control of finger" and proclaimed his performances "as Mozart might have played."
3. "Night Life," Mary Lou Williams (1930)
When a record producer asked for an impromptu solo piano performance, 20-year-old Mary Lou Williams created an original three-minute collage of stride, ragtime, blues and pop styles that summarized the art of jazz piano to that time while pointing to the future of that genre and her own career in it. At the time, she was a pianist, composer and arranger for Andy Kirk and his Twelve Clouds of Joy, one of the great jazz bands of the Midwest. She later said that thoughts about the nightlife of Kansas City had driven this composition.
4. Sounds of the Ivory-billed Woodpecker (1935)
In 1935, on their expedition to document rare North American birds, Arthur Allen and Peter Paul Kellogg of Cornell University recorded a pair of ivory-billed woodpeckers in an old-growth Louisiana swamp forest known as the Singer Tract. These recordings of the birds’ calls and foraging taps are presently the last confirmed aural evidence of what was once the largest woodpecker species in the United States. The last universally accepted sighting of an ivory-bill occurred in 1944. However, since that time, many scientists believe there have been credible sightings of the species, suggesting the bird might not be extinct. The 1935 recordings have been vital to recent searches and have been used to train searchers on what to listen for and to compare with new recordings made in the field. They have also been used to develop pattern-recognition software to enlist computers to analyze new field recordings to identify similar sounds.
5. "Gang Busters," radio program broadcast (1935-1957)
The radio crime drama series "Gang Busters" was the creation of Phillips H. Lord, producer of the successful "Seth Parker" series. Capitalizing on the public’s fascination with gangsters, Lord based his new show on true crime stories, going so far as to obtain the cooperation of the FBI director J. Edgar Hoover. "G-men," as the series was known initially, premiered in mid-1935, but the FBI’s enthusiasm waned quickly and its cooperation diminished. Revised as "Gang Busters," the show remained on the air until the late 1950s. The program’s spectacular opening, which included sirens, police whistles, gunshots and tires screeching, inspired the slang expression, "come on like gangbusters!"
6. "Bei Mir Bist Du Schoen," Andrews Sisters (1938)
This adapted English-language version of a popular song from a Yiddish musical by Jacob Jacobs and Sholom Secunda brought the Andrews Sisters to national attention and made them famous. In the adapted version by Sammy Cahn, the only Yiddish retained was the song title (translation: To me, you are beautiful), a phrase which was repeated throughout the song. Vic Schoen, the sisters’ bandleader and arranger, turned the new song into a swing sensation that showcased the girls’ close harmony singing and smooth vocal syncopations.
7. "Que é Que a Bahiana Tem?," Carmen Miranda (1939)
This recording, with its lively exchange between singer and dancer Carmen Miranda and the band, embodies the merriment of Brazilian Carnival songs. "Que é Que a Bahiana Tem?" ("What does the Bahian girl have?") was an enormously successful recording in Brazil that celebrated Bahia culture at its roots and solidified samba's hold on Brazilian popular music. The recording helped to introduce both the samba rhythm and Carmen Miranda to American audiences. It was also the first recording of a song by Dorival Caymmi, who went on to become a major composer and performer.
8. NBC Radio coverage of Marian Anderson's recital at the Lincoln Memorial (April 9, 1939)
By 1939, Marian Anderson had been hailed as the greatest contralto of her generation, yet she was refused the use of Constitution Hall in Washington, D.C. because she was an African-American. The ensuing controversy climaxed with her historic recital on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial on Easter Sunday, 1939. There she sang to an audience of over 75,000 people, with a national radio audience of millions more. Though brief newsreel excerpts of her brilliant performance have become familiar and even iconic since that time, the contemporary impact of this live, continuous radio coverage cannot be underestimated, and it is now our most complete documentation of this key event in the struggle for civil rights.
9. "Tom Dooley," Frank Profitt (1940)
Frank Profitt (1913-1965) first sang the murder ballad "Tom Dula" for Frank and Anne Warner in 1938 in Beech Mountain, North Carolina. Proffitt recorded a portion of it for the Warners two years later, accompanying himself on a banjo of his own making. Although Profitt’s performance would not be commercially released until many years later, it provided the basis for Frank Warner’s national performances of the song as a singing folklorist and for the arrangement of the song, now known as "Tom Dooley," that appeared in John and Alan Lomax’s "Folk Song USA" songbook in 1948.
10. "Uncle Sam Blues," Oran "Hot Lips" Page, accompanied by Eddie Condon’s Jazz Band. V-Disc (1944)
During the 1940s, the United States was in the record business. The V-Disc label was created to boost morale by providing recordings of familiar American artists to service camps overseas as well as on the home front. The V-Disc program took on added significance when, owing to a dispute between the record labels and the musicians’ union over royalties, union musicians were forbidden to make commercial recordings. With the understanding that V-Discs would not be sold in the domestic market, the union permitted musicians to contribute their services for free so that some V-Disc releases could include fresh, new performances. Trumpeter Oran "Hot Lips" Page had played with the Bennie Moten Orchestra in Kansas City and was a featured performer with Artie Shaw during 1941-42. Page’s V-Disc recording of the "Uncle Sam Blues," an ode to military conscription, must have resonated on both the war and home fronts.
11. The Mary Margaret McBride Program, Zora Neale Hurston and Mary Margaret McBride, (January 25, 1943)
Zora Neale Hurston’s appearance on the Mary Margaret McBride program is a unique audio document of this vital African-American writer whose legacy continues to grow. It is also a fine example of McBride’s widely heard and highly influential afternoon radio program at the peak of the host’s fame. As a talk-show host, McBride pioneered the unscripted radio interview. While her interview of Hurston sounds casual and folksy, it is a very informative and focused discussion of Hurston’s recent writings, her early life and education, and her ethnographic field work in Haiti and Jamaica. It is filled with humorous stories and interesting observations.
12. "Sinews of Peace" (Iron Curtain) Speech at Westminster College in Fulton, Missouri, Winston Churchill (March 5, 1946)
Lamenting the deepening shadow of the Soviet Union’s occupation of Eastern Europe and fearing Soviet-directed, fifth-column activities in the West, Winston Churchill delivered this opening salvo of the Cold War at Westminster College in Fulton, Missouri. The speech heralds an increasingly widespread feeling in the West that a tougher stance was needed toward Russia, a departure following the positive image that the country enjoyed as a wartime ally in World War II. Churchill famously pronounced that "From Stettin in the Baltic to Trieste in the Adriatic, an iron curtain has descended across the Continent."
13. "The Churkendoose," Ray Bolger (1947)
The Churkendoose is a children’s tale of tolerance, compassion and diversity, written by Ben Ross Berenberg for his daughter. The recording features the voice of Ray Bolger, music composed by Alec Wilder, and a supporting cast of farm animals. The Churkendoose, a creature who is part chicken, turkey, duck and goose, didn’t fit in at the farm. Rejected and ridiculed, he became a hero by saving the other animals from the fox. Ultimately, the animals embrace the Churkendoose with genuine warmth and learn a valuable lesson about acceptance.
14. "Boogie Chillen," John Lee Hooker (1948)
This first hit for the largely self-taught John Lee Hooker showcases his take on the Delta blues. Hooker was born in Coahoma County, Mississippi, spent his early years in Memphis and eventually moved to Detroit. The R&B label Modern released the infectiously rhythmic track after Hooker’s manager presented them with a demo. While the song’s instrumentation is simple, featuring only vocal, guitar and the tapping of Hooker’s foot, the driving rhythm and confessional lyrics have guaranteed its place as an influential and enduring blues classic.
15. "A Child’s Christmas in Wales," Dylan Thomas (1952)
Part nostalgic childhood remembrance and part poetic incantation, "A Child’s Christmas in Wales" was issued with five of Dylan Thomas’ poems on Caedmon Records’ first release. According to the label’s co-founder Barbara Holdridge, Thomas arrived in the studio with insufficient material to fill an entire LP, but he remembered writing a Christmas story for Harper’s Bazaar. Holdridge and her business partner, Marianne Roney, were able to identify the piece as "A Child’s Christmas in Wales" and obtained a copy from the magazine. It became one of Caedmon’s most successful releases and has been credited with launching the audiobook industry in the United States. "We had no idea of the power and beauty of this voice," Holdridge said of Thomas’ reading, "We just expected a poet with a poet’s voice, but this was a full orchestral voice."
16. "A Festival of Lessons and Carols as Sung on Christmas Eve in King’s College Chapel, Cambridge," King’s College Choir; Boris Ord, director (1954)
The annual Festival of Lessons and Carols by the Choir of King’s College, Cambridge, was introduced in 1918 to bring a new, imaginative approach to worship. The British Broadcasting Corporation began broadcasting the festival in 1928 and included it in BBC’s overseas shortwave schedule starting in the early 1930s. Organist and choirmaster Boris Ord, who conducted the service most years between 1929 and 1957, is highly respected for the standards of musical excellence that he elicited from the choir. This 1954 Argo recording, published in the U.S. by Westminster Records, provided most Americans with their first opportunity to experience this beloved Christmas tradition, which has since become a seasonal mainstay in many American churches.
17. "West Side Story," original-cast recording (1957)
While there are over 40 recordings of the score to the Broadway show "West Side Story" in various languages and styles, the original-cast recording is in many ways unequaled. The orchestra was increased to 37 for the recording, but the performances of this rich score are visceral and passionate. Bernstein’s music—with its Latin, jazz, rock and classical influences—was arguably the most demanding score heard on Broadway up to that point. Boasting Stephen Sondheim’s first lyrics for a Broadway musical, the songs range from the passionate love song "Tonight," through the social satire of "America" and "Gee, Officer Krupke," to the anthem hoping for a better world, "Somewhere."
18. "Tom Dooley," The Kingston Trio (1958)
The Kingston Trio recorded their version of "Tom Dooley" on their debut album for Capitol Records in early 1958. The song was already part of their regular set list and was also in the repertoire of other folk revivalists such as the Tarriers and the Gateway Trio. In spite of Dave Guard’s distinctive and dramatic opening narration, the song attracted little attention on its own until a Salt Lake City radio station began playing it heavily, prompting Capitol Records to place an 1866 murder ballad on a 45rpm record for the teenage market. This sparked a modern-folk revival, the influence of which would be felt throughout American popular music.
19. "Rumble," Link Wray (1958)
Asked for a tune that kids could dance "The Stroll" to, Link Wray came up with this powerfully menacing guitar instrumental on the spot, and the crowd went wild, demanding encores. When he couldn’t recreate the distorted sound of his live version in a studio, Wray poked holes in his amp speakers, cranked up the tremolo, and was then able to capture what he wanted in three takes -- for a cost of $57. Originally titled "Oddball," it was renamed after the gang fights in "West Side Story" by a record producer’s daughter. Wray’s primal guitar influenced a generation of rockers including Jimi Hendrix, Jeff Beck, the Kinks, Jimmy Page and Neil Young. Bob Dylan called "Rumble" the "greatest instrumental ever." Pete Townshend said, "... if it hadn’t been for Link Wray and ‘Rumble,’ I would have never picked up a guitar."
20. "The Play of Daniel: A Twelfth-Century Drama," New York Pro Musica under the direction of Noah Greenberg (1958)
Determined to change contemporary attitudes towards early music, Noah Greenberg founded New York Pro Musica, a performing ensemble of singers and instrumentalists in 1952, and found great success with performances of medieval, Renaissance and baroque music. Pro Musica introduced audiences to relatively neglected genres of music and influenced many early-music ensembles. His 1958 recording of "The Play of Daniel," a 12th century liturgical drama, exemplifies the best of his work. It is a joyful approach to the repertoire, early use of authentic instruments, and outstanding performances by the musicians under his direction.
21. "At Last!," Etta James (1961)
Etta James’ recording of "At Last" is widely acknowledged as a "crossover" masterpiece. The song was written by Mack Gordon and Harry Warren for the 1941 Glenn Miller film, "Orchestra Wives." It became the title track on the first album that James recorded for Leonard and Phil Chess in 1961. In the producers’ attempt to widen Jones’ audience and sales, the album features many jazz and pop standards in addition to blues, which had been the focus of James’ work until that time. Her sultry, blues-inflected approach to "At Last" -- set in a brilliant strings and rhythm section arrangement by Riley Hampton -- transcends genre, like all great crossover interpretations.
22. "Rank Stranger," Stanley Brothers (1960)
The Stanley Brothers, one of the premier bands of the formative days of bluegrass, included sacred songs as a featured part of their performances. Their recording of "Rank Stranger," written by famed gospel songwriter Albert E. Brumley Sr. and sung with reverence and simplicity in the traditional mountain style, shows why the Stanley Brothers continue to influence performers today. Carter Stanley’s masterful handling of the verses and his brother Ralph’s soaring tenor refrain produce a distinctive duet. The spare accompaniment of unamplified guitar and mandolin and the emotional call-and-response style vocals heighten the emotional anguish of the lyric.
23. "2000 Years with Carl Reiner and Mel Brooks," Carl Reiner and Mel Brooks (1961)
The secret to living 2000 years? "Never touch fried foods!" In their party routine first performed for friends, Mel Brooks played a 2000-year-old man, while Carl Reiner, as the straight man, interviewed him. After much convincing, the two writers for Sid Caesar’s "Your Show of Shows," recorded their ad-libbed dialogue for a 1961 album. Interview subjects ranged from marriage ("I was married over 200 times!") and children ("I have over 1500 children and not one of them ever comes to visit!") to transportation ("What was the means of transportation? Fear.").
24. "The Who Sings My Generation," The Who (1966)
On their first album, The Who, assisted by The Kinks’ producer Shel Talmy, laid down a set of tracks that would include both enduring classics and mainstays of their later concert performances. Pete Townshend penned the rebellious title track, "My Generation," which features John Entwistle playing one of the earliest bass leads in rock. The song is also known for Townshend’s proto-punk, two-chord guitar riff with distortion and feedback. The album was billed as "maximum R&B" and it included Bo Diddley and James Brown covers. However, it primarily marked Pete Townshend’s assumption of main songwriting duties for the band. Keith Moon, the band’s legendary drummer, is featured on "The Ox," a song they would continue to play live throughout their career.
25. "He Stopped Loving Her Today," George Jones (1980)
George Jones has said that he initially thought "He Stopped Loving Her Today" was too sad to be very popular, but, at one of the lowest points of his career and personal life, he made it one of country music’s defining and most enduring songs. Billy Sherrill’s restrained production highlighted the plaintive yet highly nuanced vocals that were the hallmark of Jones’ mature style, but which stretched back to his days singing for tips in the streets of his hometown, Beaumont, Texas, in the 1940s.
Recordings by John Lee Hooker, the Kingston Trio, Link Wray, Etta James, the Stanley Brothers, the Who and George Jones are among this year's selections.
Librarian of Congress James H. Billington said: "This year’s selections lovingly reflect the diversity and humanity of our sound heritage where astonishing discoveries and a vibrant creative spirit seem to appear around every corner," said Billington. "Our daily lives and memories are suffused with the joyous notes of recorded sound, making these choices extremely difficult. The Library, in collaboration with others, will now work to ensure that these cultural touchstones are preserved for future generations to hear and experience."
Here is a list of the additions, it's great to see some obscure recordings, they need to and should be preserved and honored:
2008 National Recording Registry
1. "No News, or What Killed the Dog," Nat M. Wills (1908)
This recording captured a gifted monologist at his best and became one of the most popular performances on early records. The "No News" monologue, with roots in oral tradition, was one of vaudeville’s most famous and often-copied routines. The monologue unfolds as a piecemeal report by a servant to his master who recently returned from a trip, assuring him that there is nothing new to report from home, except that his dog has died. Nat M. Wills displays masterful comic timing as he slowly reveals, in a escalating hierarchy of domestic disasters, the events that led up to the dog’s death.
2. Acoustic Recordings for Victor Records, Jascha Heifetz (1917-1924)
Sixteen-year-old Jascha Heifetz made his debut at Carnegie Hall in October 1917. He was immediately hailed as one of the greatest violinists of the time, praised for his immaculate technique and exceptional tonal beauty. Soon after his debut, Heifetz started recording for the Victor Talking Machine Company, maintaining a relationship with Victor, and later RCA Victor, over the course of his career. The acoustic recordings, made between 1917 and 1924, were mostly light recital pieces with piano accompaniment. The Victor Records brochure promoting his first four recordings touted "his phenomenal technique, complete mastery of bow and control of finger" and proclaimed his performances "as Mozart might have played."
3. "Night Life," Mary Lou Williams (1930)
When a record producer asked for an impromptu solo piano performance, 20-year-old Mary Lou Williams created an original three-minute collage of stride, ragtime, blues and pop styles that summarized the art of jazz piano to that time while pointing to the future of that genre and her own career in it. At the time, she was a pianist, composer and arranger for Andy Kirk and his Twelve Clouds of Joy, one of the great jazz bands of the Midwest. She later said that thoughts about the nightlife of Kansas City had driven this composition.
4. Sounds of the Ivory-billed Woodpecker (1935)
In 1935, on their expedition to document rare North American birds, Arthur Allen and Peter Paul Kellogg of Cornell University recorded a pair of ivory-billed woodpeckers in an old-growth Louisiana swamp forest known as the Singer Tract. These recordings of the birds’ calls and foraging taps are presently the last confirmed aural evidence of what was once the largest woodpecker species in the United States. The last universally accepted sighting of an ivory-bill occurred in 1944. However, since that time, many scientists believe there have been credible sightings of the species, suggesting the bird might not be extinct. The 1935 recordings have been vital to recent searches and have been used to train searchers on what to listen for and to compare with new recordings made in the field. They have also been used to develop pattern-recognition software to enlist computers to analyze new field recordings to identify similar sounds.
5. "Gang Busters," radio program broadcast (1935-1957)
The radio crime drama series "Gang Busters" was the creation of Phillips H. Lord, producer of the successful "Seth Parker" series. Capitalizing on the public’s fascination with gangsters, Lord based his new show on true crime stories, going so far as to obtain the cooperation of the FBI director J. Edgar Hoover. "G-men," as the series was known initially, premiered in mid-1935, but the FBI’s enthusiasm waned quickly and its cooperation diminished. Revised as "Gang Busters," the show remained on the air until the late 1950s. The program’s spectacular opening, which included sirens, police whistles, gunshots and tires screeching, inspired the slang expression, "come on like gangbusters!"
6. "Bei Mir Bist Du Schoen," Andrews Sisters (1938)
This adapted English-language version of a popular song from a Yiddish musical by Jacob Jacobs and Sholom Secunda brought the Andrews Sisters to national attention and made them famous. In the adapted version by Sammy Cahn, the only Yiddish retained was the song title (translation: To me, you are beautiful), a phrase which was repeated throughout the song. Vic Schoen, the sisters’ bandleader and arranger, turned the new song into a swing sensation that showcased the girls’ close harmony singing and smooth vocal syncopations.
7. "Que é Que a Bahiana Tem?," Carmen Miranda (1939)
This recording, with its lively exchange between singer and dancer Carmen Miranda and the band, embodies the merriment of Brazilian Carnival songs. "Que é Que a Bahiana Tem?" ("What does the Bahian girl have?") was an enormously successful recording in Brazil that celebrated Bahia culture at its roots and solidified samba's hold on Brazilian popular music. The recording helped to introduce both the samba rhythm and Carmen Miranda to American audiences. It was also the first recording of a song by Dorival Caymmi, who went on to become a major composer and performer.
8. NBC Radio coverage of Marian Anderson's recital at the Lincoln Memorial (April 9, 1939)
By 1939, Marian Anderson had been hailed as the greatest contralto of her generation, yet she was refused the use of Constitution Hall in Washington, D.C. because she was an African-American. The ensuing controversy climaxed with her historic recital on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial on Easter Sunday, 1939. There she sang to an audience of over 75,000 people, with a national radio audience of millions more. Though brief newsreel excerpts of her brilliant performance have become familiar and even iconic since that time, the contemporary impact of this live, continuous radio coverage cannot be underestimated, and it is now our most complete documentation of this key event in the struggle for civil rights.
9. "Tom Dooley," Frank Profitt (1940)
Frank Profitt (1913-1965) first sang the murder ballad "Tom Dula" for Frank and Anne Warner in 1938 in Beech Mountain, North Carolina. Proffitt recorded a portion of it for the Warners two years later, accompanying himself on a banjo of his own making. Although Profitt’s performance would not be commercially released until many years later, it provided the basis for Frank Warner’s national performances of the song as a singing folklorist and for the arrangement of the song, now known as "Tom Dooley," that appeared in John and Alan Lomax’s "Folk Song USA" songbook in 1948.
10. "Uncle Sam Blues," Oran "Hot Lips" Page, accompanied by Eddie Condon’s Jazz Band. V-Disc (1944)
During the 1940s, the United States was in the record business. The V-Disc label was created to boost morale by providing recordings of familiar American artists to service camps overseas as well as on the home front. The V-Disc program took on added significance when, owing to a dispute between the record labels and the musicians’ union over royalties, union musicians were forbidden to make commercial recordings. With the understanding that V-Discs would not be sold in the domestic market, the union permitted musicians to contribute their services for free so that some V-Disc releases could include fresh, new performances. Trumpeter Oran "Hot Lips" Page had played with the Bennie Moten Orchestra in Kansas City and was a featured performer with Artie Shaw during 1941-42. Page’s V-Disc recording of the "Uncle Sam Blues," an ode to military conscription, must have resonated on both the war and home fronts.
11. The Mary Margaret McBride Program, Zora Neale Hurston and Mary Margaret McBride, (January 25, 1943)
Zora Neale Hurston’s appearance on the Mary Margaret McBride program is a unique audio document of this vital African-American writer whose legacy continues to grow. It is also a fine example of McBride’s widely heard and highly influential afternoon radio program at the peak of the host’s fame. As a talk-show host, McBride pioneered the unscripted radio interview. While her interview of Hurston sounds casual and folksy, it is a very informative and focused discussion of Hurston’s recent writings, her early life and education, and her ethnographic field work in Haiti and Jamaica. It is filled with humorous stories and interesting observations.
12. "Sinews of Peace" (Iron Curtain) Speech at Westminster College in Fulton, Missouri, Winston Churchill (March 5, 1946)
Lamenting the deepening shadow of the Soviet Union’s occupation of Eastern Europe and fearing Soviet-directed, fifth-column activities in the West, Winston Churchill delivered this opening salvo of the Cold War at Westminster College in Fulton, Missouri. The speech heralds an increasingly widespread feeling in the West that a tougher stance was needed toward Russia, a departure following the positive image that the country enjoyed as a wartime ally in World War II. Churchill famously pronounced that "From Stettin in the Baltic to Trieste in the Adriatic, an iron curtain has descended across the Continent."
13. "The Churkendoose," Ray Bolger (1947)
The Churkendoose is a children’s tale of tolerance, compassion and diversity, written by Ben Ross Berenberg for his daughter. The recording features the voice of Ray Bolger, music composed by Alec Wilder, and a supporting cast of farm animals. The Churkendoose, a creature who is part chicken, turkey, duck and goose, didn’t fit in at the farm. Rejected and ridiculed, he became a hero by saving the other animals from the fox. Ultimately, the animals embrace the Churkendoose with genuine warmth and learn a valuable lesson about acceptance.
14. "Boogie Chillen," John Lee Hooker (1948)
This first hit for the largely self-taught John Lee Hooker showcases his take on the Delta blues. Hooker was born in Coahoma County, Mississippi, spent his early years in Memphis and eventually moved to Detroit. The R&B label Modern released the infectiously rhythmic track after Hooker’s manager presented them with a demo. While the song’s instrumentation is simple, featuring only vocal, guitar and the tapping of Hooker’s foot, the driving rhythm and confessional lyrics have guaranteed its place as an influential and enduring blues classic.
15. "A Child’s Christmas in Wales," Dylan Thomas (1952)
Part nostalgic childhood remembrance and part poetic incantation, "A Child’s Christmas in Wales" was issued with five of Dylan Thomas’ poems on Caedmon Records’ first release. According to the label’s co-founder Barbara Holdridge, Thomas arrived in the studio with insufficient material to fill an entire LP, but he remembered writing a Christmas story for Harper’s Bazaar. Holdridge and her business partner, Marianne Roney, were able to identify the piece as "A Child’s Christmas in Wales" and obtained a copy from the magazine. It became one of Caedmon’s most successful releases and has been credited with launching the audiobook industry in the United States. "We had no idea of the power and beauty of this voice," Holdridge said of Thomas’ reading, "We just expected a poet with a poet’s voice, but this was a full orchestral voice."
16. "A Festival of Lessons and Carols as Sung on Christmas Eve in King’s College Chapel, Cambridge," King’s College Choir; Boris Ord, director (1954)
The annual Festival of Lessons and Carols by the Choir of King’s College, Cambridge, was introduced in 1918 to bring a new, imaginative approach to worship. The British Broadcasting Corporation began broadcasting the festival in 1928 and included it in BBC’s overseas shortwave schedule starting in the early 1930s. Organist and choirmaster Boris Ord, who conducted the service most years between 1929 and 1957, is highly respected for the standards of musical excellence that he elicited from the choir. This 1954 Argo recording, published in the U.S. by Westminster Records, provided most Americans with their first opportunity to experience this beloved Christmas tradition, which has since become a seasonal mainstay in many American churches.
17. "West Side Story," original-cast recording (1957)
While there are over 40 recordings of the score to the Broadway show "West Side Story" in various languages and styles, the original-cast recording is in many ways unequaled. The orchestra was increased to 37 for the recording, but the performances of this rich score are visceral and passionate. Bernstein’s music—with its Latin, jazz, rock and classical influences—was arguably the most demanding score heard on Broadway up to that point. Boasting Stephen Sondheim’s first lyrics for a Broadway musical, the songs range from the passionate love song "Tonight," through the social satire of "America" and "Gee, Officer Krupke," to the anthem hoping for a better world, "Somewhere."
18. "Tom Dooley," The Kingston Trio (1958)
The Kingston Trio recorded their version of "Tom Dooley" on their debut album for Capitol Records in early 1958. The song was already part of their regular set list and was also in the repertoire of other folk revivalists such as the Tarriers and the Gateway Trio. In spite of Dave Guard’s distinctive and dramatic opening narration, the song attracted little attention on its own until a Salt Lake City radio station began playing it heavily, prompting Capitol Records to place an 1866 murder ballad on a 45rpm record for the teenage market. This sparked a modern-folk revival, the influence of which would be felt throughout American popular music.
19. "Rumble," Link Wray (1958)
Asked for a tune that kids could dance "The Stroll" to, Link Wray came up with this powerfully menacing guitar instrumental on the spot, and the crowd went wild, demanding encores. When he couldn’t recreate the distorted sound of his live version in a studio, Wray poked holes in his amp speakers, cranked up the tremolo, and was then able to capture what he wanted in three takes -- for a cost of $57. Originally titled "Oddball," it was renamed after the gang fights in "West Side Story" by a record producer’s daughter. Wray’s primal guitar influenced a generation of rockers including Jimi Hendrix, Jeff Beck, the Kinks, Jimmy Page and Neil Young. Bob Dylan called "Rumble" the "greatest instrumental ever." Pete Townshend said, "... if it hadn’t been for Link Wray and ‘Rumble,’ I would have never picked up a guitar."
20. "The Play of Daniel: A Twelfth-Century Drama," New York Pro Musica under the direction of Noah Greenberg (1958)
Determined to change contemporary attitudes towards early music, Noah Greenberg founded New York Pro Musica, a performing ensemble of singers and instrumentalists in 1952, and found great success with performances of medieval, Renaissance and baroque music. Pro Musica introduced audiences to relatively neglected genres of music and influenced many early-music ensembles. His 1958 recording of "The Play of Daniel," a 12th century liturgical drama, exemplifies the best of his work. It is a joyful approach to the repertoire, early use of authentic instruments, and outstanding performances by the musicians under his direction.
21. "At Last!," Etta James (1961)
Etta James’ recording of "At Last" is widely acknowledged as a "crossover" masterpiece. The song was written by Mack Gordon and Harry Warren for the 1941 Glenn Miller film, "Orchestra Wives." It became the title track on the first album that James recorded for Leonard and Phil Chess in 1961. In the producers’ attempt to widen Jones’ audience and sales, the album features many jazz and pop standards in addition to blues, which had been the focus of James’ work until that time. Her sultry, blues-inflected approach to "At Last" -- set in a brilliant strings and rhythm section arrangement by Riley Hampton -- transcends genre, like all great crossover interpretations.
22. "Rank Stranger," Stanley Brothers (1960)
The Stanley Brothers, one of the premier bands of the formative days of bluegrass, included sacred songs as a featured part of their performances. Their recording of "Rank Stranger," written by famed gospel songwriter Albert E. Brumley Sr. and sung with reverence and simplicity in the traditional mountain style, shows why the Stanley Brothers continue to influence performers today. Carter Stanley’s masterful handling of the verses and his brother Ralph’s soaring tenor refrain produce a distinctive duet. The spare accompaniment of unamplified guitar and mandolin and the emotional call-and-response style vocals heighten the emotional anguish of the lyric.
23. "2000 Years with Carl Reiner and Mel Brooks," Carl Reiner and Mel Brooks (1961)
The secret to living 2000 years? "Never touch fried foods!" In their party routine first performed for friends, Mel Brooks played a 2000-year-old man, while Carl Reiner, as the straight man, interviewed him. After much convincing, the two writers for Sid Caesar’s "Your Show of Shows," recorded their ad-libbed dialogue for a 1961 album. Interview subjects ranged from marriage ("I was married over 200 times!") and children ("I have over 1500 children and not one of them ever comes to visit!") to transportation ("What was the means of transportation? Fear.").
24. "The Who Sings My Generation," The Who (1966)
On their first album, The Who, assisted by The Kinks’ producer Shel Talmy, laid down a set of tracks that would include both enduring classics and mainstays of their later concert performances. Pete Townshend penned the rebellious title track, "My Generation," which features John Entwistle playing one of the earliest bass leads in rock. The song is also known for Townshend’s proto-punk, two-chord guitar riff with distortion and feedback. The album was billed as "maximum R&B" and it included Bo Diddley and James Brown covers. However, it primarily marked Pete Townshend’s assumption of main songwriting duties for the band. Keith Moon, the band’s legendary drummer, is featured on "The Ox," a song they would continue to play live throughout their career.
25. "He Stopped Loving Her Today," George Jones (1980)
George Jones has said that he initially thought "He Stopped Loving Her Today" was too sad to be very popular, but, at one of the lowest points of his career and personal life, he made it one of country music’s defining and most enduring songs. Billy Sherrill’s restrained production highlighted the plaintive yet highly nuanced vocals that were the hallmark of Jones’ mature style, but which stretched back to his days singing for tips in the streets of his hometown, Beaumont, Texas, in the 1940s.
This Date In Music History- June 11
Birthdays:
ZZ Top drummer Frank Beard – ironically the one without facial hair - was born in Frankston, Texas in 1949.
Skip Alan - Pretty Things (1948)
Joey Dee of Joey Dee & the Starliters was born in 1940 (#1 hit with 1961's "Peppermint Twist, Part 1"). Jimi Hendrix was a member of the band during 1964.
John Lawton - Uriah Heep (1946)
Glenn Leonard – Temptations (1947)
Bonnie Pointer - Pointer Sisters (1951)
Connie Van Zandt - .38 Special (1952)
Dan Lavery – Tonic (1969)
They Are Missed:
The late James "Pookie" Hudson, lead singer of the Spaniels ("Goodnight, Sweetheart, Goodnight") was born in 1934.
Wilma Burgess (born June 11, 1939 – died August 26, 2003) She charted six singles on the Billboard country charts in the 1960s and 1970s.
History:
In 1962, the Beatles recorded a BBC radio program, "Here We Go", at the Playhouse Theatre in Manchester, in front of a studio audience composed largely of loyal Cavern fans. This was the last recording on which Pete Best played drums.
Hank Williams made his debut at the “Grand Ole Opry” in Nashville in 1949 and received an unprecedented total of six encores.
In 1966, Melody Maker reported that guitarist Eric Clapton Jack Bruce and Ginger Baker had formed the first "Rock supergroup." They’re right. Cream was the result.
In 1996, a Metallica concert at a small club in San Francisco was broadcast live via the Internet.
The top three albums in the US in 2000: Eminem, “The Marshall Mathers LP” at #1. Kid Rock, “The History Of Rock” at #2 and Britney Spears, “Oops!...I Did It Again” at #3.
In 1988, Nelson Mandellas 70th birthday tribute took place at Wembley Stadium, London, featuring Whitney Houston, Phil Collins, Dire Straits, Stevie Wonder, Tracy Chapman, George Michael, Eric Clapton, UB40, Eurythmics and Simple Minds. The event was broadcast live on BBC 2 to 40 different countries with an estimated audience of 1billion.
In 1964, Manfred Mann recorded their #1 "Doo Wah Diddy Diddy."
The Rolling Stones recorded “Got Live If You Want It” during a concert at London's Royal Albert Hall in 1965. Well, not entirely. Several numbers were "added" to the record with overdubbed audience noise.
In 1966, the Rolling Stones started a two week run at #1 on the US singles chart with “Paint It Black,” the groups third US #1 single. Also #1 in the UK.
KC and the Sunshine Band became only the second group after The Jackson Five to achieve four US #1's when “I'm Your Boogie Man” went to the top of the charts in 1977.
Paul McCartney married his second wife, Heather Mills, in Ireland in 2002 (the marriage lasted less than six years).
In 1965, the British government announced The Beatles will receive the MBE (Members of the British Empire) Award. Some conservative MBE holders grumble that they it shouldn’t go to a bunch of Rock ‘n’ Rollers and turn in their awards. The Beatles get their MBEs just the same. After all, they about single-handedly saved the British economy. Later, John Lennon returned his award to protest the British government’s support of the war in Vietnam.
Beach Boy Dennis Wilson accidentally put his hand through a window in 1971, severing nerves and keeping him from playing drums for the next three years.
Elvis Presley's "Teddy Bear/Loving You" single was released in 1957.
In 1966, Janis Joplin debuts with Big Brother and the Holding Company at San Francisco’s Avalon Ballroom, where they become the house band.
David Bowie's single, "Space Oddity," was released in 1969 to coincide with the first lunar landing.
ZZ Top drummer Frank Beard – ironically the one without facial hair - was born in Frankston, Texas in 1949.
Skip Alan - Pretty Things (1948)
Joey Dee of Joey Dee & the Starliters was born in 1940 (#1 hit with 1961's "Peppermint Twist, Part 1"). Jimi Hendrix was a member of the band during 1964.
John Lawton - Uriah Heep (1946)
Glenn Leonard – Temptations (1947)
Bonnie Pointer - Pointer Sisters (1951)
Connie Van Zandt - .38 Special (1952)
Dan Lavery – Tonic (1969)
They Are Missed:
The late James "Pookie" Hudson, lead singer of the Spaniels ("Goodnight, Sweetheart, Goodnight") was born in 1934.
Wilma Burgess (born June 11, 1939 – died August 26, 2003) She charted six singles on the Billboard country charts in the 1960s and 1970s.
History:
In 1962, the Beatles recorded a BBC radio program, "Here We Go", at the Playhouse Theatre in Manchester, in front of a studio audience composed largely of loyal Cavern fans. This was the last recording on which Pete Best played drums.
Hank Williams made his debut at the “Grand Ole Opry” in Nashville in 1949 and received an unprecedented total of six encores.
In 1966, Melody Maker reported that guitarist Eric Clapton Jack Bruce and Ginger Baker had formed the first "Rock supergroup." They’re right. Cream was the result.
In 1996, a Metallica concert at a small club in San Francisco was broadcast live via the Internet.
The top three albums in the US in 2000: Eminem, “The Marshall Mathers LP” at #1. Kid Rock, “The History Of Rock” at #2 and Britney Spears, “Oops!...I Did It Again” at #3.
In 1988, Nelson Mandellas 70th birthday tribute took place at Wembley Stadium, London, featuring Whitney Houston, Phil Collins, Dire Straits, Stevie Wonder, Tracy Chapman, George Michael, Eric Clapton, UB40, Eurythmics and Simple Minds. The event was broadcast live on BBC 2 to 40 different countries with an estimated audience of 1billion.
In 1964, Manfred Mann recorded their #1 "Doo Wah Diddy Diddy."
The Rolling Stones recorded “Got Live If You Want It” during a concert at London's Royal Albert Hall in 1965. Well, not entirely. Several numbers were "added" to the record with overdubbed audience noise.
In 1966, the Rolling Stones started a two week run at #1 on the US singles chart with “Paint It Black,” the groups third US #1 single. Also #1 in the UK.
KC and the Sunshine Band became only the second group after The Jackson Five to achieve four US #1's when “I'm Your Boogie Man” went to the top of the charts in 1977.
Paul McCartney married his second wife, Heather Mills, in Ireland in 2002 (the marriage lasted less than six years).
In 1965, the British government announced The Beatles will receive the MBE (Members of the British Empire) Award. Some conservative MBE holders grumble that they it shouldn’t go to a bunch of Rock ‘n’ Rollers and turn in their awards. The Beatles get their MBEs just the same. After all, they about single-handedly saved the British economy. Later, John Lennon returned his award to protest the British government’s support of the war in Vietnam.
Beach Boy Dennis Wilson accidentally put his hand through a window in 1971, severing nerves and keeping him from playing drums for the next three years.
Elvis Presley's "Teddy Bear/Loving You" single was released in 1957.
In 1966, Janis Joplin debuts with Big Brother and the Holding Company at San Francisco’s Avalon Ballroom, where they become the house band.
David Bowie's single, "Space Oddity," was released in 1969 to coincide with the first lunar landing.