The Fame Bureau, a London auction house, held its "It's More Than Rock 'n' Roll Auction" on Thursday, Septemeber 4. A 1965 Fender Stratocaster that Jimi Hendrix set ablaze during in 1967 show at the Astoria in London fetched $495,236 (using current exchange rate) while the contract between the Beatles and manager Brian Epstein, which was signed by all four members, brought in $454,555. Other major lots included the 1,850 tape master tape collection of Joe Meek and items associated with John Lennon, Elvis Presley, Tom Jones and Ron Wood.
Top sellers for the auction:
Jimi Hendrix' burnt guitar from 1967 show - $495,236
Beatles' contract with Brian Epstein signed by all four members - $454,555
Trident Studios Bechstein grand piano used for the recording of the Beatles' Hey Jude - $353,740
Joe Meek's personal master tape archive of 1850 tapes - $300,679
Jim Morrison's last notebook from 1971 with unfinished poems and musings - $102,584
Elvis Presley's fingerprints from concealed gun permit application - $81,360
Tom Jones' owned billiard table originally made in 1880 - $70,748
John Lennon's lyrics for Sexy Sadie that he carved into a piece of wood - $56,598
Elvis Presley's mid-1960's Cherry Sunburst acoustic guitar - $47,755
Four original drawings by Jimi Hendrix - $42,449
Elvis Presley's Harley Davidson golf cart - $40,680
John Bonham owned and played drum set - $35,374
Original standee of Tom Mix used for the cover shoot of the Beatles' Sgt. Pepper - $35,374
Ron Wood's original painting of Jimi Hendrix - $30,068
Complete set of Ron Wood's Decades signed lithographs - $16,803
John Lennon's curdoroy coat from 1960's - $12,381
John Lennon's jeans c.1978-79 - $12,027
John Lennon's bathrobe c.1965 - $11,496
Elvis Presley's original acetate for Good Rocking Tonight with invoice - $11,320
Elvis Presley's St. Christopher medal worn while making Jailhouse Rock - $11,320
Elvis Presley's hand signed portrait - $10,966
Elvis Presley's framed acetate for I Love You Because on Sun Records - $10,966
Elvis Presley's hand drawn design for his security crew's deputy cards - $10,612
Elvis Presley's '68 Comeback Special signed conductor's sheet music - $9,197
Ike Turner's guitar - Fender Mustang - $7,605
We Are the World songsheet signed by Michael Jackson, Lionel Richie, Stevie Wonder, Willie Nelson, Bruce Springsteen and more - $6,721
Elvis Presley's x-ray of broken wrist from karate injury - $6,190
Chris Squire's bass - 1970 Fender Telecaster - $5,660
Limited edition Gered Mankoitch guitar depicting Jimi Hendrix - $5,660
Cliff Richard owned & played guitar - $5,306
Jimi Hendrix owned & worn stage belt - $5,306
John Lennon's dinner jacket from May 1975 - $5,306
SOURCE: http://winkscollectibles.blogspot.com
Saturday, September 6, 2008
This Date In Music History- September 6
Birthdays:
Born on this day in 1969, Marc Anthony, US singer, songwriter.
Roger Waters of Pink Floyd was born in 1944.
David Allan Coe was born in Akron, Ohio in 1939.
The Cranberries' Dolores O'Riordan was born in 1971.
History:
Ritchie Blackmore's new group Rainbow, made its chart debut with their self-titled LP in 1975.
'Born to Run' by Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band was released in 1975. The album garners critical raves, and Springsteen appears on the covers of both 'Time' and 'Newsweek' at the end of October.
Also in 1975, the song "Rhinestone Cowboy" by Glen Campbell topped the charts and stayed there for 2 weeks.
Producer Tom Wilson died in Los Angeles in 1978. He helmed seminal records by Bob Dylan (Highway 61 Revisited), the Velvet Underground (Velvet Underground & Nico), and Frank Zappa (Freak Out!).
Tom Fogerty, who played rhythm guitar with his brother John in Creedence Clearwater Revival, died of AIDS in Scottsdale, Arizona in 1990.
Pianist Nicky Hopkins died at age 50 in London in 1994. Following his performance on the Rolling Stones' "Their Satanic Majesties Request," he became an in-demand session player, making appearances on albums by the Beatles, the Kinks, John Lennon, Rod Stewart, and even Spinal Tap.
Bob Dylan debuted at the Gaslight Cafe in New York City in 1961.
"The Biggest Show of Stars for 1957" launched in Pittsburgh in 1957. The bill included Chuck Berry, Buddy Holly, The Everly Brothers and Frankie Lyman & the Teenagers. Due to Southern segregation laws, white performers were forbidden from playing on the same stage as African-Americans, so they missed several dates.
After a show in the Memphis Mid-Southern Coliseum in 1969, James Brown announced his retirement from live performing, effective July 4, 1970. The Godfather of Soul says he's tired. At the same time, he's fighting a paternity suit filed by a one-time president of the local James Brown fan club.
Jimi Hendrix made his last major concert appearance at the Love and Peace Festival in Puttgarden, Germany in 1970.
The late Bluesman Jimmy Reed was born in 1925.
Neil Young's "This Note's For You" was named Best Video of the Year at the sixth annual MTV Rock Video Awards in 1989. The video had been initially banned by the music video station because it mentioned corporate sponsors by name.
Elton John sings a re-worked version of "Candle In The Wind" at the September 6th funeral of England's Princess Diana. A record 31.5 million across the UK watched Elton play the special tribute to Diana. After the song is re-recorded and released as a single, it would become the largest selling record in history.
Working at Abbey Road studio’s in London in 1968, the Beatles recorded overdubs onto the new George Harrison song ‘While My Guitar Gently Weeps’. Eric Clapton added the guitar solo and became the first outside musician to play on a Beatles recording and George recorded his lead vocal.
In 1957, the first flexi-disc record was produced and used in a promotion for a Nestle chocolate bar.
Born on this day in 1969, Marc Anthony, US singer, songwriter.
Roger Waters of Pink Floyd was born in 1944.
David Allan Coe was born in Akron, Ohio in 1939.
The Cranberries' Dolores O'Riordan was born in 1971.
History:
Ritchie Blackmore's new group Rainbow, made its chart debut with their self-titled LP in 1975.
'Born to Run' by Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band was released in 1975. The album garners critical raves, and Springsteen appears on the covers of both 'Time' and 'Newsweek' at the end of October.
Also in 1975, the song "Rhinestone Cowboy" by Glen Campbell topped the charts and stayed there for 2 weeks.
Producer Tom Wilson died in Los Angeles in 1978. He helmed seminal records by Bob Dylan (Highway 61 Revisited), the Velvet Underground (Velvet Underground & Nico), and Frank Zappa (Freak Out!).
Tom Fogerty, who played rhythm guitar with his brother John in Creedence Clearwater Revival, died of AIDS in Scottsdale, Arizona in 1990.
Pianist Nicky Hopkins died at age 50 in London in 1994. Following his performance on the Rolling Stones' "Their Satanic Majesties Request," he became an in-demand session player, making appearances on albums by the Beatles, the Kinks, John Lennon, Rod Stewart, and even Spinal Tap.
Bob Dylan debuted at the Gaslight Cafe in New York City in 1961.
"The Biggest Show of Stars for 1957" launched in Pittsburgh in 1957. The bill included Chuck Berry, Buddy Holly, The Everly Brothers and Frankie Lyman & the Teenagers. Due to Southern segregation laws, white performers were forbidden from playing on the same stage as African-Americans, so they missed several dates.
After a show in the Memphis Mid-Southern Coliseum in 1969, James Brown announced his retirement from live performing, effective July 4, 1970. The Godfather of Soul says he's tired. At the same time, he's fighting a paternity suit filed by a one-time president of the local James Brown fan club.
Jimi Hendrix made his last major concert appearance at the Love and Peace Festival in Puttgarden, Germany in 1970.
The late Bluesman Jimmy Reed was born in 1925.
Neil Young's "This Note's For You" was named Best Video of the Year at the sixth annual MTV Rock Video Awards in 1989. The video had been initially banned by the music video station because it mentioned corporate sponsors by name.
Elton John sings a re-worked version of "Candle In The Wind" at the September 6th funeral of England's Princess Diana. A record 31.5 million across the UK watched Elton play the special tribute to Diana. After the song is re-recorded and released as a single, it would become the largest selling record in history.
Working at Abbey Road studio’s in London in 1968, the Beatles recorded overdubs onto the new George Harrison song ‘While My Guitar Gently Weeps’. Eric Clapton added the guitar solo and became the first outside musician to play on a Beatles recording and George recorded his lead vocal.
In 1957, the first flexi-disc record was produced and used in a promotion for a Nestle chocolate bar.
Friday, September 5, 2008
Who's In Your Five?
I just received an email from famed vinyl artist Daniel Edlen. He is running a promotion on his blog, here are the details:
Who's In Your Five?
So I decided to do a couple more for Primitive Kool's "dead rocker" show this September. Along with Randy Rhoads and Jim Morrison, I'd love to do Bradley Nowell but Sublime vinyl is seriously expensive!
My wife and I were talking about the idea of collections. I've got my EC going, but that's restricted to the albums I received from one person. Knowing that you guys like making lists, my wife thought it'd be cool to get you involved in picking who I paint. In return you'd get a discount for pieces on your list. What do you think?
Here's how I'll work it. If you're interested in seeing me paint your favorites, leave a comment on this post with your top 5 bands or musicians. If you feel chatty, you can tell me why those are your top choices. If you feel really chatty, have a blog, and want to give me extra incentive to paint ones on your list, then do a post on your blog about your favorites and what my artwork means to you. I'm a sucker when visitors get involved!
Then I'll get to work painting as many as I can, barring huge difficulties in finding albums, and I'll post about them here. If I paint one on your list and you want to buy it, I'll give you 15% off (a little more than $25). Sound good?
So stop on by Daniel's blog and fill in your Top Five:
http://vinylart.blogspot.com/2008/08/whos-in-your-five.html
Creating portraits of musicians on their original record albums, Daniel honors the music we all now listen to mostly on CD or MP3. He uses white acrylic to bring the face out of the shadows of the grooves and capture the spirit of the subject. Daniel's Vinyl Art gives people a way to say, "This is my music, my culture."
Daniel's Website: http://www.vinylart.info/why.htm
Online Safety Tips
My vinyl friend David Schofield, operator of www.vinylrecordslive.co.uk has made up a 'common sense' list for all buyers of vinyl records. Thanks David, it all makes perfect sense!
How to make sure you are buying records safely on the net.
Unfortunately buying records safely in the net can be a bit of a lottery. How often have you heard of friends being fooled by unscrupulous individuals saying they are recommended dealers? Here are 9 simple and straightforward ideas to ensure it doesn’t happen to you.
1. Before buying from someone who represents themselves as a record dealer, ask for references - and check them! Anyone who says they are a dealer would not have a problem with supplying references - so don't hesitate in asking for them!
2. Check the dealer's return policy and make sure that you may return damaged or mis-graded product within a reasonable amount of time. Don't expect a dealer to accept returns weeks after the fact or accept returns simply because you don't like the record you ordered.
3. Pay by credit card. All credit cards companies offer recourse these days.
4. If not paying by card - use PayPal. I find it invaluable in these days as it provides a wonderful audit trail.
5. Dealers who have their own websites are a safer bet than those who don't. Setting up shop on the net indicates a degree of permanence and commitment.
6. If you still have some doubts, ask that your package be shipped COD. Don't expect the dealer, however, to pay the COD charges.
7. Always buy postal insurance. This small investment is prudent. Don't assume the dealer will automatically mail with insurance, always specify it.
8. Always request recorded delivery. You will have to sign for the package on delivery so ensuring the dealer cannot simply say "but …I did post it". This will protect both you and the dealer, as, again, it provides a wonderful audit trail.
9. Don't forget to ensure the dealer packages your prized records correctly! Any decent dealer wouldn't think twice - but I once bought a record from Ebay before I knew better, and it came in a normal envelope - it was not surprising that by the time it reached me it was no good!
Written by David Schofield
http://www.vinylrecordslive.co.uk/
All things Vinyl: How do you care for records - appraise albums, values of records. All the best Valve amplifiers and ‘old’ record decks. Discography of the best music available on Vinyl Records
How to make sure you are buying records safely on the net.
Unfortunately buying records safely in the net can be a bit of a lottery. How often have you heard of friends being fooled by unscrupulous individuals saying they are recommended dealers? Here are 9 simple and straightforward ideas to ensure it doesn’t happen to you.
1. Before buying from someone who represents themselves as a record dealer, ask for references - and check them! Anyone who says they are a dealer would not have a problem with supplying references - so don't hesitate in asking for them!
2. Check the dealer's return policy and make sure that you may return damaged or mis-graded product within a reasonable amount of time. Don't expect a dealer to accept returns weeks after the fact or accept returns simply because you don't like the record you ordered.
3. Pay by credit card. All credit cards companies offer recourse these days.
4. If not paying by card - use PayPal. I find it invaluable in these days as it provides a wonderful audit trail.
5. Dealers who have their own websites are a safer bet than those who don't. Setting up shop on the net indicates a degree of permanence and commitment.
6. If you still have some doubts, ask that your package be shipped COD. Don't expect the dealer, however, to pay the COD charges.
7. Always buy postal insurance. This small investment is prudent. Don't assume the dealer will automatically mail with insurance, always specify it.
8. Always request recorded delivery. You will have to sign for the package on delivery so ensuring the dealer cannot simply say "but …I did post it". This will protect both you and the dealer, as, again, it provides a wonderful audit trail.
9. Don't forget to ensure the dealer packages your prized records correctly! Any decent dealer wouldn't think twice - but I once bought a record from Ebay before I knew better, and it came in a normal envelope - it was not surprising that by the time it reached me it was no good!
Written by David Schofield
http://www.vinylrecordslive.co.uk/
All things Vinyl: How do you care for records - appraise albums, values of records. All the best Valve amplifiers and ‘old’ record decks. Discography of the best music available on Vinyl Records
More Vinyl Releases
New Vinyl Releases:
Vinyl
Beach Boys - Pet Sounds
Bubble Puppy - A Gathering of Promises
Roger McGuinn - Live From Spain
Steve Miller Band - Greatest Hits - '74-'78
Steve Miller Band - Nine Tonight
R.E.M. - Document
Bob Seger - Live Bullet (2-LPs)
Bob Seger - Nine Tonight
Vinyl
Beach Boys - Pet Sounds
Bubble Puppy - A Gathering of Promises
Roger McGuinn - Live From Spain
Steve Miller Band - Greatest Hits - '74-'78
Steve Miller Band - Nine Tonight
R.E.M. - Document
Bob Seger - Live Bullet (2-LPs)
Bob Seger - Nine Tonight
10 Commandments
The 10 Commandments The Vinyl Preservation Society of Idaho was founded on the following principles and respectfully asks its members to adopt them and embrace them as their own.
1) Honor the importance of music as an art form
2) Listen actively and with intention
3) Respect others and their musical choices
4) Maintain an open mind and a curious ear
5) Choose vinyl whenever there’s a musical choice to be made
6) Preserve our vinyl heritage by caring for and about vinyl records
7) Recognize your ownership of the Society by actively influencing its direction
and development
8) Evangelize the vinyl life and your role as an Ambassador for the Society at
every opportunity
9) Share your vinyl history, knowledge and passion
10) Support your local independent record merchants
SOURCE: http://www.vpsidaho.org/
1) Honor the importance of music as an art form
2) Listen actively and with intention
3) Respect others and their musical choices
4) Maintain an open mind and a curious ear
5) Choose vinyl whenever there’s a musical choice to be made
6) Preserve our vinyl heritage by caring for and about vinyl records
7) Recognize your ownership of the Society by actively influencing its direction
and development
8) Evangelize the vinyl life and your role as an Ambassador for the Society at
every opportunity
9) Share your vinyl history, knowledge and passion
10) Support your local independent record merchants
SOURCE: http://www.vpsidaho.org/
Thursday, September 4, 2008
America's Most Revered Independent Record Stores
Any list attempting to name the best record stores in the US would necessarily elicit more dissenting opinions than a list of America’s best mothers. People are passionate and particular about their favorite record stores, and any list that doesn’t include hundreds of them is bound to disappoint.
There may soon not be so many to argue over, given the attrition rate of record stores. One store, for example that most certainly would have been on any list—Village Records in California’s Mill Valley, considered by many record collectors to be the best store ever—shut its doors on Sept. 30, ending over four decades in business.
Here, while they still stand, is a list of at least some of the shops across the nation that music fans revere. Count on most of them having daunting amounts of new, used and rare vinyl records and CDs, and a staff that knows more about music than you’d ever want to hear. Stores with particular quirks and qualities are noted.
Atlanta, Ga.:
Ella Guru
2993 N. Druid Hills Road, (404) 325-1350
When a store is named after a Captain Beefheart song, it has a lot to live up to, and Ella Guru doesn’t disappoint, with a vast selection of alternative and rare vinyl and CDs.
Austin, Texas:
Waterloo Records & Video
600-A N. Lamar, (512) 474-2500
This Austin institution has been a vital part of the town’s music scene for decades.
Berkeley, Calif.:
Amoeba Music
2455 Telegraph Ave., (510) 549-1125
1855 Haight St., San Francisco, (415) 831-1200
6400 Sunset Blvd., Hollywood, (323) 245-6400
While other stores fade, the Amoeba superstores have become must-see destinations. Hardcore collectors can wallow for hours through their bins, while some come just for the memorabilia displays and free performances (which have ranged from new unknowns to Sir Paul McCartney). Some argue that Amoeba is hulking and soulless, but at least it’s alive.
Cambridge, Mass.:
Twisted Village Records
12-B Eliot St., (617) 354-6898
Chicago, Ill.:
Dusty Groove America
1120 Ashland Ave., (773) 342-5800
Council Bluffs, Iowa:
Kanesville Used Records
530 S. 4th St., (712) 328-8731
Most likely the largest collection of used vinyl in the Midwest, with other 750,000 items.
Encinitas, Calif.:
Lou’s Records
434 N. Coast Highway 101, (760) 753-1382
Long Beach, Calif.:
Bagatelle Records
260 Atlantic Ave., (562) 432-7534
Los Angeles:
Record Surplus
11609 W. Pico Blvd., (310) 478-4217
Nashville, Tenn.
Ernest Tubb Record Shop
417 Broadway, (615) 255-7503
For over 60 years, singer Ernest Tubb’s shop has been as much a part of the Nashville scene as the Opry, and nearly everyone in country music has made the pilgrimage to its bins.
The Great Escape
1925 Broadway, (615) 327-0646
New Orleans
Jim Russell Rare Records
1837 Magazine St., (504) 522-2602
Unlike many other Crescent City musical institutions, Russell’s shop of recorded treasures survived Katrina relatively intact.
Louisiana Music Factory
210 Decatur Street, (504) 586-1094
A bit of everything and a considerable lot of Louisiana-made music of all stripes.
New York City
Bleecker Bob's
118 W. Third St., (212) 475-9677
When Bleecker Bob’s—originally named Village Oldies—opened in Greenwich Village in 1967, “Sgt. Pepper” was a newie. Plenty of the records predate the Beatles, or even WWII, but the store was also one of the first to embrace the punk scene and continues to be abreast or ahead of the times.
Sound Library Records
165 Orchard St., (212) 460-4800
A deeper hip-hop selection than many stores, and a resource for DJs seeking new beats.
Strider Records
22 Jones St., (212) 675-3040
Oklahoma City:
Size Records
8915 N. Western, (405) 607-4805.
Omaha, Neb.:
Homer’s Music
1114 Howard St., (402) 346-0264
Check the website for five other locations in Nebraska and Iowa.
Princeton, N.J.:
Princeton Record Exchange
120 S. Tulane St., (609) 921-0881
Reno, Nev.:
Recycled Records
4930 S.Virginia St., (775) 826-4119
812 N.Virginia St., (775) 322-4644
Seattle
Bud’s Jazz Records
102 S. Jackson St., (206) 628-0445
You’ll find a bit of everything here, but, as the name attests, this basement near Pioneer Square is packed with jazz.
Easy Street Records
20 W. Mercer St., (206) 691-3279
4559 California Ave. S.W., (206) 938-3279
Ville Platte, La.:
Floyd's Record Shop
434 E. Main St., (337) 363-2138
For 51 years, the world headquarters for Cajun, Zydeco and swamp rock music, no great surprise since owner Floyd Soileau produced and released many of Louisiana’s seminal records in those genres on his Swallow and other labels.
SOURCE—Jim Washburn for MSN City Guides
There may soon not be so many to argue over, given the attrition rate of record stores. One store, for example that most certainly would have been on any list—Village Records in California’s Mill Valley, considered by many record collectors to be the best store ever—shut its doors on Sept. 30, ending over four decades in business.
Here, while they still stand, is a list of at least some of the shops across the nation that music fans revere. Count on most of them having daunting amounts of new, used and rare vinyl records and CDs, and a staff that knows more about music than you’d ever want to hear. Stores with particular quirks and qualities are noted.
Atlanta, Ga.:
Ella Guru
2993 N. Druid Hills Road, (404) 325-1350
When a store is named after a Captain Beefheart song, it has a lot to live up to, and Ella Guru doesn’t disappoint, with a vast selection of alternative and rare vinyl and CDs.
Austin, Texas:
Waterloo Records & Video
600-A N. Lamar, (512) 474-2500
This Austin institution has been a vital part of the town’s music scene for decades.
Berkeley, Calif.:
Amoeba Music
2455 Telegraph Ave., (510) 549-1125
1855 Haight St., San Francisco, (415) 831-1200
6400 Sunset Blvd., Hollywood, (323) 245-6400
While other stores fade, the Amoeba superstores have become must-see destinations. Hardcore collectors can wallow for hours through their bins, while some come just for the memorabilia displays and free performances (which have ranged from new unknowns to Sir Paul McCartney). Some argue that Amoeba is hulking and soulless, but at least it’s alive.
Cambridge, Mass.:
Twisted Village Records
12-B Eliot St., (617) 354-6898
Chicago, Ill.:
Dusty Groove America
1120 Ashland Ave., (773) 342-5800
Council Bluffs, Iowa:
Kanesville Used Records
530 S. 4th St., (712) 328-8731
Most likely the largest collection of used vinyl in the Midwest, with other 750,000 items.
Encinitas, Calif.:
Lou’s Records
434 N. Coast Highway 101, (760) 753-1382
Long Beach, Calif.:
Bagatelle Records
260 Atlantic Ave., (562) 432-7534
Los Angeles:
Record Surplus
11609 W. Pico Blvd., (310) 478-4217
Nashville, Tenn.
Ernest Tubb Record Shop
417 Broadway, (615) 255-7503
For over 60 years, singer Ernest Tubb’s shop has been as much a part of the Nashville scene as the Opry, and nearly everyone in country music has made the pilgrimage to its bins.
The Great Escape
1925 Broadway, (615) 327-0646
New Orleans
Jim Russell Rare Records
1837 Magazine St., (504) 522-2602
Unlike many other Crescent City musical institutions, Russell’s shop of recorded treasures survived Katrina relatively intact.
Louisiana Music Factory
210 Decatur Street, (504) 586-1094
A bit of everything and a considerable lot of Louisiana-made music of all stripes.
New York City
Bleecker Bob's
118 W. Third St., (212) 475-9677
When Bleecker Bob’s—originally named Village Oldies—opened in Greenwich Village in 1967, “Sgt. Pepper” was a newie. Plenty of the records predate the Beatles, or even WWII, but the store was also one of the first to embrace the punk scene and continues to be abreast or ahead of the times.
Sound Library Records
165 Orchard St., (212) 460-4800
A deeper hip-hop selection than many stores, and a resource for DJs seeking new beats.
Strider Records
22 Jones St., (212) 675-3040
Oklahoma City:
Size Records
8915 N. Western, (405) 607-4805.
Omaha, Neb.:
Homer’s Music
1114 Howard St., (402) 346-0264
Check the website for five other locations in Nebraska and Iowa.
Princeton, N.J.:
Princeton Record Exchange
120 S. Tulane St., (609) 921-0881
Reno, Nev.:
Recycled Records
4930 S.Virginia St., (775) 826-4119
812 N.Virginia St., (775) 322-4644
Seattle
Bud’s Jazz Records
102 S. Jackson St., (206) 628-0445
You’ll find a bit of everything here, but, as the name attests, this basement near Pioneer Square is packed with jazz.
Easy Street Records
20 W. Mercer St., (206) 691-3279
4559 California Ave. S.W., (206) 938-3279
Ville Platte, La.:
Floyd's Record Shop
434 E. Main St., (337) 363-2138
For 51 years, the world headquarters for Cajun, Zydeco and swamp rock music, no great surprise since owner Floyd Soileau produced and released many of Louisiana’s seminal records in those genres on his Swallow and other labels.
SOURCE—Jim Washburn for MSN City Guides
Laura Roppe - Girl Like This
I raved about Laura Roppe in a recent review of her CD and someone else has taken a liking to Country Music's newest superstar: You go girl! (I don't believe I just said that!)
San Diego’s Laura Roppe is determined to stand country music on its head. Moving back and forth between classic country and honky-tonk styles, Roppe brings a classy, soulful-alto voice that is much more powerful pure than your typical country crooner. On her 2008 debut, "Girl Like This," Roppe unleashes a tidal wave of color and emotion that transcends her genre and raises her to a level that has legs far beyond the bounds of Nashville.
"Girl Like This" is a rockin' country opening that sets the tone for all that is to come. "Mama Needs A Girl's Night Out" is anthemic for young mothers everywhere and sounds like it might be a marketer's dream song. "Free" is workhorse of a song that crosses over firmly into rock and roll. "Little Daughter" will tug at the heartstrings particularly if you're a parent. Also be sure to check out "Ooh La La," "Sing A Love Song" and "Crazy About You And Me."
Laura Roppe is the sort of singer that could be singing most any style of music. The material here even ranges into easy listening/vocal genres at times. Girl Like This is a dynamic and winsome debut that could develop quite a following with the right breaks. Roppe's songs are very commercially viable without being commercial, and Roppe herself is a charming and warm voice. Make sure that "Girl Like This" is on your want list.
Rating: 4.5 Stars (Out of 5)
You can learn more about Laura Roppe at http://www.lauraroppe.com/, where you can purchase a copy of Girl Like This either on CD or as a download.
SOURCE: wildysworld.blogspot.com
This Date In Music History- September 4
Birthdays:
Two members of Quicksilver Messenger Service were born today in 1946. In San Diego, it's guitarist Gary Duncan. At the Coronado Naval Air Station in California, it's drummer Greg Elmore.
Merald "Bubba" Knight of Gladys Knight and The Pips ("Midnight Train To Georgia") was born in 1942.
Sonny Charles ("Black Pearl") is 68.
History:
Gladys Knight & the Pips were formed at a birthday party for her brother Bubba in 1952.
In 1962, the Beatles recorded their first sessions at EMI Studios in London, with George Martin as producer. Things get off to a bad start when Martin tries to force them to learn Mitch Murray's song "How Do You Do It." When they say they have material just as good, he makes them play "Love Me Do" 16 times. They finally succeed in recording that and five other songs, including "P.S. I Love You."
Disco Inferno! "You Should Be Dancing" from the album 'Children of the World' became the latest Bee Gees single to top the charts in 1976. It is the third single to go to #1.
"Valley Girl," co-written by Frank Zappa and daughter Moon Unit, entered the Top Forty in 1982, where it peaked at #2.
Bobby Darin was riding high with "Mack the Knife." But not in New York, where WCBS bans the song in 1959 following the fatal stabbing of two teenagers by 17-year-old Salvador Agron.
John Lennon and Yoko Ono appeared on Jerry Lewis' muscular dystrophy telethon in 1972.
Today in 1965, the song "Help!" by the Beatles topped the charts and stayed there for 3 weeks.
In 1965, the Who stopped by London's Battersea Dog's Home to buy a guard dog. When they come out, the quartet discovered that their equipment van has been stolen. They even took the woofers!
1969- If you tuned into The Tonight Show to see the Youngbloods ("Get Together"), you'd be disappointed. Johnny Carson said, "They complained about the set, the lighting, the sound, the show - everything. So we wiped their noses, told them they'd been in show business a day and a half, and sent them home."
The Animals gave their debut performance in Brooklyn, NY, at the U.S. Paramount Theater in 1964.
To coincide with the release of his second Sun single, "Good Rockin' Tonight", Elvis Presley, along with Bill Black and Scotty Moore made their first appearance at The Grand Old Opry in 1954. Audience reaction is so poor, the Opry's manager, Jim Denny suggests that Elvis go back to driving a truck.
In 2003, nearly 26 years after the death of Elvis Presley, BMG/RCA, unearthed a never-before-heard song called "I'm A Roustabout". The song was originally commissioned and written for the film Roustabout (1964) by long-time Presley collaborators Winfield Scott and Otis Blackwell, but was never used. Instead, a completely different song written by the team Giant/Baum/Kaye was recorded for the film and eventually became the title song for both the movie and the album. Winfield Scott found the original acetate in the basement of his New Jersey home and BMG/RCA has said they will add the track to the album "Elvis, 2nd to None".
Kiss released the Soft Rock ballad, "Beth" in 1976. It will rise to #7 and become their only US Top 10 hit.
Two members of Quicksilver Messenger Service were born today in 1946. In San Diego, it's guitarist Gary Duncan. At the Coronado Naval Air Station in California, it's drummer Greg Elmore.
Merald "Bubba" Knight of Gladys Knight and The Pips ("Midnight Train To Georgia") was born in 1942.
Sonny Charles ("Black Pearl") is 68.
History:
Gladys Knight & the Pips were formed at a birthday party for her brother Bubba in 1952.
In 1962, the Beatles recorded their first sessions at EMI Studios in London, with George Martin as producer. Things get off to a bad start when Martin tries to force them to learn Mitch Murray's song "How Do You Do It." When they say they have material just as good, he makes them play "Love Me Do" 16 times. They finally succeed in recording that and five other songs, including "P.S. I Love You."
Disco Inferno! "You Should Be Dancing" from the album 'Children of the World' became the latest Bee Gees single to top the charts in 1976. It is the third single to go to #1.
"Valley Girl," co-written by Frank Zappa and daughter Moon Unit, entered the Top Forty in 1982, where it peaked at #2.
Bobby Darin was riding high with "Mack the Knife." But not in New York, where WCBS bans the song in 1959 following the fatal stabbing of two teenagers by 17-year-old Salvador Agron.
John Lennon and Yoko Ono appeared on Jerry Lewis' muscular dystrophy telethon in 1972.
Today in 1965, the song "Help!" by the Beatles topped the charts and stayed there for 3 weeks.
In 1965, the Who stopped by London's Battersea Dog's Home to buy a guard dog. When they come out, the quartet discovered that their equipment van has been stolen. They even took the woofers!
1969- If you tuned into The Tonight Show to see the Youngbloods ("Get Together"), you'd be disappointed. Johnny Carson said, "They complained about the set, the lighting, the sound, the show - everything. So we wiped their noses, told them they'd been in show business a day and a half, and sent them home."
The Animals gave their debut performance in Brooklyn, NY, at the U.S. Paramount Theater in 1964.
To coincide with the release of his second Sun single, "Good Rockin' Tonight", Elvis Presley, along with Bill Black and Scotty Moore made their first appearance at The Grand Old Opry in 1954. Audience reaction is so poor, the Opry's manager, Jim Denny suggests that Elvis go back to driving a truck.
In 2003, nearly 26 years after the death of Elvis Presley, BMG/RCA, unearthed a never-before-heard song called "I'm A Roustabout". The song was originally commissioned and written for the film Roustabout (1964) by long-time Presley collaborators Winfield Scott and Otis Blackwell, but was never used. Instead, a completely different song written by the team Giant/Baum/Kaye was recorded for the film and eventually became the title song for both the movie and the album. Winfield Scott found the original acetate in the basement of his New Jersey home and BMG/RCA has said they will add the track to the album "Elvis, 2nd to None".
Kiss released the Soft Rock ballad, "Beth" in 1976. It will rise to #7 and become their only US Top 10 hit.
Wednesday, September 3, 2008
Record Fairs & Shows
Sept 7 MI, Roseville. Metro Detroit Record Show at VFW Hall, 25671 Gratiot Ave. SH: 10am-4pm. Adm: $3. Records, oldies to current. Plus, cd's and music memorabilia. Info: (586) 759-5133 or www.michiganrecords.com
Sept 7 MO, St. Louis. Record & CD Show at American Czech Hall, 4690 Landsdowne at Kings Hwy. SH: 10am-4pm, F: $35., Adm: $2.50. Info: Jim Ronat, (618) 654-3049 or Carl, (314) 821-9121.
Sept 13 NJ, Wayne. 2nd Saturday Record & CD Collectors Show at Firemen's Convention Center. 97 Parish Dr. (north of Rt. 46& Rt. 80) @ Rt. 23 & Rt. 202S, by Bus take NJT #195 from Port Authority to Route 23/Fairfield Rd (after WillowbrookMall). SH: 10am 4pm. Up to 100 tables. Adm: $6.00 (Children under 12 free). Info: F. Falk, 2nd Saturday, PO Box 251,Hamburg, NJ 07419-0251 or Ph: (973) 209 6067, Email: fred@nji.com or www.showsandexpos.com
Sept 13 MN, Minneapolis. MSP Music Expo, Tri-City American Legion. 400 Old Highway #8 NW, New Brighton, MN. SH: 10am-4pm, Tables: 8’, $35., Adm: $3. Info: Tim at (651) 373-0065 or www.mspmusicexpo.com
Sept 14 PA, Lancaster. Pennsylvania Music Expo, Jaycees Bingo Hall. 2460 New Holland Pike (PA Rt 23). SH: 9am-3pm, Tables: 95-6’, $35. Adm: FREE. Keystone Record Collectors, Ph: (717) 898-1246 or www.recordcollectors.org
Sept 14 IL, Hillside. Chicagoland Record & CD Collectors Show at Chicago Hillside Hotel, 4400 Frontage Road, Hillside. Adm: $3, SH: 9am-4pm. Early Birds 7:00am. (630) 898-1533. 85 dealer tables.
Sept 14 NJ, Springfield. Greater NJ Record & CD Show Holiday Inn, Route 22 West. SH: 10am-5pm. Adm:$6. Info: (908) 541-0511 or e-mail GNJRecordShows@yahoo.com
Sept 14 MA, Dedham. Original New England Compact Disc and Record Show at the Holiday Inn at the junctions of RT #95/128 & RT #1. Exit 15A. SH: 10am - 4pm, Adm: $4. Includes lots of free parking. Featuring 50 vendors - some of which have participated 30 years. Info: call (781) 986-4538. Other 2008 dates: Nov 9.
Sept 20 NY, New York City. New York City Record & CD Collectors Expo, The Holiday Inn (formerly the Days Inn), 440 West 57th Street (between 9th & 10th Avenues). SH: 10am 4pm. Up to 100 tables. Adm: $6.00 (children under 12 free). FREE CD to First 100 Customers. Info: F. Falk, NYC Record Show, PO Box 251, Hamburg, NJ 07419-0251. Ph: (973) 209 6067, email: fred@nji.com or www.showsandexpos.com
Sep 20 PA, Allentown. Original 19th Semi-Annual 45-78 RPM Record Expo, Merchants Square. 12th & Vultee Sts. SH: 10am-?, Adm: $3. Tables: 8’ $55 in advance, $65 after. Surround Sound Prods, (610)-530-7606 or (797)-7743 day of show.
Sept 21 PA, Allentown. Fall 2008 Lehigh Valley Music Expo, Merchants Square. 12th & Vultee Sts. SH: 10am-?, Adm: $3. Tables: 8’ $55 in advance, $65 after. Surround Sound Prods, (610)-530-7606 or (797)-7743 day of show.
Sept 28 MA, Boston. Record & CD Collectors Show, Radisson Hotel. 200 Stuart St., 6th floor, SH: 10am-4pm, Tables: 100-8’, Adm: $6. Info: (978) 388-6576 or www.primatepromotions.com
Sept 28 OH, Fairview Park. Record & CD Convention at American Legion Hall, 22001 Brookpark Rd.(I-480, Exit 9 Grayton Rd.) SH: 10am-4pm, Adm: $3. Info: Lawrence, Ph (330) 242-4499 or lpsound@webtv.net
Sept 28 CA, Buena Park. Greater Orange County Record Show at the UFCW Union Hall, 8530 Stanton Ave. SH: 10am - 3pm, Adm $3. T: 8’, F: $65 Early bird admission $8.00 at 7:00am. Info: Steve Brunner (626) 963-9717 or or www.asavinyl.com.
Sept 7 MO, St. Louis. Record & CD Show at American Czech Hall, 4690 Landsdowne at Kings Hwy. SH: 10am-4pm, F: $35., Adm: $2.50. Info: Jim Ronat, (618) 654-3049 or Carl, (314) 821-9121.
Sept 13 NJ, Wayne. 2nd Saturday Record & CD Collectors Show at Firemen's Convention Center. 97 Parish Dr. (north of Rt. 46& Rt. 80) @ Rt. 23 & Rt. 202S, by Bus take NJT #195 from Port Authority to Route 23/Fairfield Rd (after WillowbrookMall). SH: 10am 4pm. Up to 100 tables. Adm: $6.00 (Children under 12 free). Info: F. Falk, 2nd Saturday, PO Box 251,Hamburg, NJ 07419-0251 or Ph: (973) 209 6067, Email: fred@nji.com or www.showsandexpos.com
Sept 13 MN, Minneapolis. MSP Music Expo, Tri-City American Legion. 400 Old Highway #8 NW, New Brighton, MN. SH: 10am-4pm, Tables: 8’, $35., Adm: $3. Info: Tim at (651) 373-0065 or www.mspmusicexpo.com
Sept 14 PA, Lancaster. Pennsylvania Music Expo, Jaycees Bingo Hall. 2460 New Holland Pike (PA Rt 23). SH: 9am-3pm, Tables: 95-6’, $35. Adm: FREE. Keystone Record Collectors, Ph: (717) 898-1246 or www.recordcollectors.org
Sept 14 IL, Hillside. Chicagoland Record & CD Collectors Show at Chicago Hillside Hotel, 4400 Frontage Road, Hillside. Adm: $3, SH: 9am-4pm. Early Birds 7:00am. (630) 898-1533. 85 dealer tables.
Sept 14 NJ, Springfield. Greater NJ Record & CD Show Holiday Inn, Route 22 West. SH: 10am-5pm. Adm:$6. Info: (908) 541-0511 or e-mail GNJRecordShows@yahoo.com
Sept 14 MA, Dedham. Original New England Compact Disc and Record Show at the Holiday Inn at the junctions of RT #95/128 & RT #1. Exit 15A. SH: 10am - 4pm, Adm: $4. Includes lots of free parking. Featuring 50 vendors - some of which have participated 30 years. Info: call (781) 986-4538. Other 2008 dates: Nov 9.
Sept 20 NY, New York City. New York City Record & CD Collectors Expo, The Holiday Inn (formerly the Days Inn), 440 West 57th Street (between 9th & 10th Avenues). SH: 10am 4pm. Up to 100 tables. Adm: $6.00 (children under 12 free). FREE CD to First 100 Customers. Info: F. Falk, NYC Record Show, PO Box 251, Hamburg, NJ 07419-0251. Ph: (973) 209 6067, email: fred@nji.com or www.showsandexpos.com
Sep 20 PA, Allentown. Original 19th Semi-Annual 45-78 RPM Record Expo, Merchants Square. 12th & Vultee Sts. SH: 10am-?, Adm: $3. Tables: 8’ $55 in advance, $65 after. Surround Sound Prods, (610)-530-7606 or (797)-7743 day of show.
Sept 21 PA, Allentown. Fall 2008 Lehigh Valley Music Expo, Merchants Square. 12th & Vultee Sts. SH: 10am-?, Adm: $3. Tables: 8’ $55 in advance, $65 after. Surround Sound Prods, (610)-530-7606 or (797)-7743 day of show.
Sept 28 MA, Boston. Record & CD Collectors Show, Radisson Hotel. 200 Stuart St., 6th floor, SH: 10am-4pm, Tables: 100-8’, Adm: $6. Info: (978) 388-6576 or www.primatepromotions.com
Sept 28 OH, Fairview Park. Record & CD Convention at American Legion Hall, 22001 Brookpark Rd.(I-480, Exit 9 Grayton Rd.) SH: 10am-4pm, Adm: $3. Info: Lawrence, Ph (330) 242-4499 or lpsound@webtv.net
Sept 28 CA, Buena Park. Greater Orange County Record Show at the UFCW Union Hall, 8530 Stanton Ave. SH: 10am - 3pm, Adm $3. T: 8’, F: $65 Early bird admission $8.00 at 7:00am. Info: Steve Brunner (626) 963-9717 or or www.asavinyl.com.
Les Paul to Receive Rock Hall's American Music Masters Award
One of the greatest innovators of the last sixty years (and the most overlooked on the "great guitarists" lists), Les Paul, will be honored by the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame at the annual American Music Masters series. The week-long tribute starts on November 10 and will include a tribute concert on the 15th.
Rock Hall President and CEO Terry Stewart said "You have an inductee who in some ways maybe has had one of the biggest influences of all our inductees with the creation of his solid-body guitar, overdubbing ... not to mention his musical styling and his ability to play. He's become an idol and an icon to people in the rock world, as well as people in jazz and popular music."
"It's not just his innovation and his musical playing, but sort of the residual effects of that guitar. It's become the beginning point for so many people in music, particularly rock music."
Paul, who is 93, is attributed with not only the development of the solid-body electric guitar, but also developed numerous innovations in the recording studio. As a guitarist, he is best known for his early-50's hits with then-wife Mary Ford (How High the Moon, Mockingbird Hill). He continues to play today, even after having to relearn the instrument after a stroke, on Monday's at the Iridium Jazz Club in New York.
Paul was originally inducted as an early influence in 1988. His American Masters Award is only the second time that it has been given to a living musician, following Jerry Lee Lewis last year.
SOURCE: http://winkscollectibles.blogspot.com
Rock Legends Queen + Paul Rodgers to Release The Cosmos Rocks
QUEEN'S FIRST STUDIO ALBUM SINCE 1995 DUE OCT. 28 BURBANK, Calif., Sept. 2
BURBANK, Calif., Sept. 2 /PRNewswire/ -- Hollywood Records have announcedan October 28th release date for "The Cosmos Rocks," the highly-anticipated new album from rock legends Queen + Paul Rodgers. The album, Queen's first new studio release in nearly a decade and a half, features 13 brand-new songs entirely written, produced and performed by guitarist Brian May, drummer Roger Taylor and vocalist Paul Rodgers, with Rodgers and May sharing bass duties. The album's lead single, "C-lebrity," arrives at radio on September 9th.
Recorded at Taylor's home studio, The Priory, in Puttenham, England, The
Cosmos Rocks recalls the sound and vision of classic 1970s-era Queen. As the
band says, "We believe that this is an album in the old sense of the
word -- something you can put on and listen to all the way through, and it
takes you on a journey. The subjects and moods in it are widely spaced, but
nevertheless, a challenge to the listener to put his day on hold for an hour
or so, be drawn in, make connections, and experience something new." The
album's dedication to legendary Queen front man Freddie Mercury shows the band still feel his presence strongly enough to dedicate this entirely new work to him, nearly 13 years after Queen's last studio album.
In the case of Rodgers, who takes control as main vocalist on all thirteen
tracks, he can stand assured in the fact that Mercury rated him as one of the
best rock voices of his time. Freddie would make a point of dropping into
various London venues where Rodgers was performing with his band Free and had often acknowledged Free's Fire and Water as one of the albums that most influenced Queen.
The Cosmos Rocks was recorded and mixed between November 2007 and August 2008, and co-produced and engineered by Joshua J Macrae, Justin Shirley-Smith and Kris Fredriksson. It marks the first album of newly recorded material from Queen + Paul Rodgers since they first set out on the road in 2005, and the first Queen studio album since 1995.
The lead single from the album is "C-lebrity" (which features guest backing vocals by Foo Fighters drummer Taylor Hawkins) and according to Roger Taylor -- and in keeping with many tracks on The Cosmos Rocks -- is the writer's skew on the times in which we live: "'C-lebrity' is really a comment on the current concept of fame, success and all that goes with it. Getting your face on TV is enough -- talent doesn't really enter into the equation. 'Celebrity' is an overused and devalued word today. I think the song shows we have lost none of the humor of Queen."
Other tracks on The Cosmos Rocks include "Cosmos Rockin'," "Time To Shine," "Still Burnin'" (a mission statement of why artists are compelled to create), "Small," "Warboys," "We Believe," "Call Me," "Voodoo," "Some Things That Glitter," "Through The Night," "Say It's Not True," (a new version of the track donated to Nelson Mandela's 46664 HIV Aids campaign), and "Surf's Up ... School's Out!"
The album will be released in two physical formats: standard CD and in double gate-fold vinyl. It will also have a special digital release.
"There's a lot of guitar orchestras and some of our old trademarks, but at the core of it you'll hear the three of us playing," says May. "People really,truly playing together in the studio -- you don't get that much these days."
Queen + Paul Rodgers embark on the first leg of their world tour with a 33-date Europe and Northern Eurasia run beginning mid-September. The tour reaches the UK on October 10 with 11 dates including two at London 02 and the tour's first leg final date at Wembley Arena on November 8. The tour hits North America in early 2009 -- dates and venues to be announced shortly.
This past June, Queen + Paul Rodgers gave thousands of fans a sneak preview of their new songs with an electrifying show-stopping set at Nelson Mandela's 90th birthday concert in London's Hyde Park.
Members of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, Queen formed in 1971, and over the ensuing 20 years wrote and recorded such multi-platinum albums as News of the World, The Game, A Night at the Opera, A Day At The Races, A Kind of Magic and Live Killers. Their timeless hits include "Bohemian Rhapsody," "Killer Queen," "We Will Rock You," "We are the Champions" and "Under Pressure." Queen has sold more than 40 million albums in the United States and bands like Foo Fighters, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Green Day and My Chemical Romance have all cited Queen as a major musical influence.
Singer Paul Rodgers first burst on the music scene at age 18 with Free's "All Right Now," co-written by Rodgers. The song became a #1 hit in 20 countries. In 1973 Rodgers formed Bad Company, and as the main songwriter he wrote and produced six multi-platinum albums with the band. Their hits include "Feel Like Makin'Love," "Rock & Roll Fantasy," Shooting Star" and "Bad Company." In the 80s, Rodgers partnered with Led Zeppelin guitarist Jimmy Page in The Firm. They released two hit CDs and had two top-grossing world tours.
May and Taylor joined forces with Rodgers in late 2004 when they performed
at the first annual U.K. Music Hall of Fame Awards. In 2005 Queen + Paul
Rodgers launched their first tour, which crossed the globe and included 32
sold-out dates across Europe and the U.K., ending with a spectacular show in
London's Hyde Park. They followed this the following spring with a 23-date
tour of the U.S. and Canada as well as Asia/Japan. During the tour, the band
released a live concert DVD and CD release, Return of the Champions.
Queen + Paul Rodgers dedicate The Cosmos Rocks to legendary Queen vocalist
Freddie Mercury, who passed away in 1991.
Track listing:
1. Cosmos Rockin' (4:10)
2. Time To Shine (4:23)
3. Still Burnin' (4:04)
4. Small (4:39)
5. Warboys (3:18)
6. We Believe (6:08)
7. Call Me (2:59)
8. Voodoo (4:27)
9. Some Things That Glitter (4:03)
10. C-lebrity (3:38)
11. Through The Night (4:54)
12. Say It's Not True (4:00)
13. Surf's Up ... School's Out! (5:38)
14. Small reprise (2:05)
Produced and performed by Brian May, Paul Rodgers and Roger Taylor
Co-produced and engineered by Joshua J Macrae, Justin Shirley-Smith and
Kris Fredriksson
All tracks written by Queen + Paul Rodgers
Extra backing vocals on "C-lebrity": Taylor Hawkins courtesy of RCA
Records
This album is dedicated to Freddie Mercury
http://www.queenpluspaulrodgers.com
http://www.queenonline.com
http://www.paulrodgers.com
SOURCE Hollywood Records
BURBANK, Calif., Sept. 2 /PRNewswire/ -- Hollywood Records have announcedan October 28th release date for "The Cosmos Rocks," the highly-anticipated new album from rock legends Queen + Paul Rodgers. The album, Queen's first new studio release in nearly a decade and a half, features 13 brand-new songs entirely written, produced and performed by guitarist Brian May, drummer Roger Taylor and vocalist Paul Rodgers, with Rodgers and May sharing bass duties. The album's lead single, "C-lebrity," arrives at radio on September 9th.
Recorded at Taylor's home studio, The Priory, in Puttenham, England, The
Cosmos Rocks recalls the sound and vision of classic 1970s-era Queen. As the
band says, "We believe that this is an album in the old sense of the
word -- something you can put on and listen to all the way through, and it
takes you on a journey. The subjects and moods in it are widely spaced, but
nevertheless, a challenge to the listener to put his day on hold for an hour
or so, be drawn in, make connections, and experience something new." The
album's dedication to legendary Queen front man Freddie Mercury shows the band still feel his presence strongly enough to dedicate this entirely new work to him, nearly 13 years after Queen's last studio album.
In the case of Rodgers, who takes control as main vocalist on all thirteen
tracks, he can stand assured in the fact that Mercury rated him as one of the
best rock voices of his time. Freddie would make a point of dropping into
various London venues where Rodgers was performing with his band Free and had often acknowledged Free's Fire and Water as one of the albums that most influenced Queen.
The Cosmos Rocks was recorded and mixed between November 2007 and August 2008, and co-produced and engineered by Joshua J Macrae, Justin Shirley-Smith and Kris Fredriksson. It marks the first album of newly recorded material from Queen + Paul Rodgers since they first set out on the road in 2005, and the first Queen studio album since 1995.
The lead single from the album is "C-lebrity" (which features guest backing vocals by Foo Fighters drummer Taylor Hawkins) and according to Roger Taylor -- and in keeping with many tracks on The Cosmos Rocks -- is the writer's skew on the times in which we live: "'C-lebrity' is really a comment on the current concept of fame, success and all that goes with it. Getting your face on TV is enough -- talent doesn't really enter into the equation. 'Celebrity' is an overused and devalued word today. I think the song shows we have lost none of the humor of Queen."
Other tracks on The Cosmos Rocks include "Cosmos Rockin'," "Time To Shine," "Still Burnin'" (a mission statement of why artists are compelled to create), "Small," "Warboys," "We Believe," "Call Me," "Voodoo," "Some Things That Glitter," "Through The Night," "Say It's Not True," (a new version of the track donated to Nelson Mandela's 46664 HIV Aids campaign), and "Surf's Up ... School's Out!"
The album will be released in two physical formats: standard CD and in double gate-fold vinyl. It will also have a special digital release.
"There's a lot of guitar orchestras and some of our old trademarks, but at the core of it you'll hear the three of us playing," says May. "People really,truly playing together in the studio -- you don't get that much these days."
Queen + Paul Rodgers embark on the first leg of their world tour with a 33-date Europe and Northern Eurasia run beginning mid-September. The tour reaches the UK on October 10 with 11 dates including two at London 02 and the tour's first leg final date at Wembley Arena on November 8. The tour hits North America in early 2009 -- dates and venues to be announced shortly.
This past June, Queen + Paul Rodgers gave thousands of fans a sneak preview of their new songs with an electrifying show-stopping set at Nelson Mandela's 90th birthday concert in London's Hyde Park.
Members of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, Queen formed in 1971, and over the ensuing 20 years wrote and recorded such multi-platinum albums as News of the World, The Game, A Night at the Opera, A Day At The Races, A Kind of Magic and Live Killers. Their timeless hits include "Bohemian Rhapsody," "Killer Queen," "We Will Rock You," "We are the Champions" and "Under Pressure." Queen has sold more than 40 million albums in the United States and bands like Foo Fighters, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Green Day and My Chemical Romance have all cited Queen as a major musical influence.
Singer Paul Rodgers first burst on the music scene at age 18 with Free's "All Right Now," co-written by Rodgers. The song became a #1 hit in 20 countries. In 1973 Rodgers formed Bad Company, and as the main songwriter he wrote and produced six multi-platinum albums with the band. Their hits include "Feel Like Makin'Love," "Rock & Roll Fantasy," Shooting Star" and "Bad Company." In the 80s, Rodgers partnered with Led Zeppelin guitarist Jimmy Page in The Firm. They released two hit CDs and had two top-grossing world tours.
May and Taylor joined forces with Rodgers in late 2004 when they performed
at the first annual U.K. Music Hall of Fame Awards. In 2005 Queen + Paul
Rodgers launched their first tour, which crossed the globe and included 32
sold-out dates across Europe and the U.K., ending with a spectacular show in
London's Hyde Park. They followed this the following spring with a 23-date
tour of the U.S. and Canada as well as Asia/Japan. During the tour, the band
released a live concert DVD and CD release, Return of the Champions.
Queen + Paul Rodgers dedicate The Cosmos Rocks to legendary Queen vocalist
Freddie Mercury, who passed away in 1991.
Track listing:
1. Cosmos Rockin' (4:10)
2. Time To Shine (4:23)
3. Still Burnin' (4:04)
4. Small (4:39)
5. Warboys (3:18)
6. We Believe (6:08)
7. Call Me (2:59)
8. Voodoo (4:27)
9. Some Things That Glitter (4:03)
10. C-lebrity (3:38)
11. Through The Night (4:54)
12. Say It's Not True (4:00)
13. Surf's Up ... School's Out! (5:38)
14. Small reprise (2:05)
Produced and performed by Brian May, Paul Rodgers and Roger Taylor
Co-produced and engineered by Joshua J Macrae, Justin Shirley-Smith and
Kris Fredriksson
All tracks written by Queen + Paul Rodgers
Extra backing vocals on "C-lebrity": Taylor Hawkins courtesy of RCA
Records
This album is dedicated to Freddie Mercury
http://www.queenpluspaulrodgers.com
http://www.queenonline.com
http://www.paulrodgers.com
SOURCE Hollywood Records
Tuesday, September 2, 2008
R.I.P Jerry Reed
Jerry Reed (1937-2008)
Singer/guitarist/songwriter/actor Jerry Reed passed away on Monday due to complications from emphysema at the age of 71.
Reed got his start in music when he dropped out of high school to tour with Ernest Tubb and Faron Young and, in 1955 at the age of 18, was signed by publisher and producer Bill Lowery. His first record, "If the Good Lord's Willing and the Creeks Don't Rise," was released that same year and was followed by a series of country and rockabilly recordings.
Reed's first real success came when Gene Vincent covered his song "Crazy Legs" in 1958 and, while he was in the military, his name continued to grow when Brenda Lee recorded "That's All You Gotta Do."
Once out of the service, Reed moved to Nashville where he became known not only for his songwriting, but also for his guitar playing. He worked as a session man through the middle of the decade while trying to jump start a recording career, which finally happened in 1967 when his "Tupelo Mississippi Flash" made it to number 15 on the country charts.
Reed had six more records that peaked in the top 20 over the next three years, including "Amos Moses," which hit number 16, but went all the way to number eight on the pop charts. It was the next single that would finally solidify his recording career when "When You're Hot, You're Hot" went all the way to number one on the country charts for five weeks in mid-1971, along with peaking at number nine on the pop charts. Throughout the balance of the 70's to the mid-80's, Reed would have a total of 28 more top 40 country hits, including the number ones "Lord, Mr. Ford" and "She Got the Goldmine (I Got the Shaft)."
As a guitarist, Reed was known as a fine session man and was a regular on The Glen Campbell Goodtime Hour. In addition, he did a number of recordings with another guitar great, Chet Atkins.
Reed was also known for acting in a number of films, starting with "W.W. & the Dixie Dance Kings" with pal Burt Reynolds and followed by "Gator," all three "Smokey and the Bandit" films and, most recently, "The Waterboy" with Adam Sandler.
Major singles:
Amos Moses (1970/#8 pop/#16 country)
When You're Hot, You're Hot (1971/#9 pop/#1 country)
Lord, Mr. Ford (1973/#1 country)
East Bound and Down (1977/#2 country)
(I Love You) What Can I Say (1978/#10 country)
She Got the Goldmine (I Got the Shaft) (1982/#1 country)
The Bird (1982/#2 country)
Major albums:
Ko-Ko Joe (1971/#7 country)
When You're Hot, You're Hot (1971/#2 country)
The Best of Jerry Reed (1972/#4 country)
Hot A' Mighty! (1973/#9 country)
Lord, Mr. Ford (1973/#4 country)
East Bound and Down (1977/#10 country)
Grammy Awards:
Me & Jerry (with Chet Atkins) (1970/Best Country Instrumental Performance)
Sneakin' Around (with Chet Atkins) (1992/Best Country Instrumental Performance)
Major songs recorded by other artists:
A Thing Called Love (Johnny Cash, Elvis Presley)
Baby, What You Want Me to Do (Stray Cats)
Crazy Legs (Gene Vincent)
Georgia Sunshine (Dean Martin)
Girl of Mine (Elvis Presley)
Guitar Man (Elvis Presley)
If the Good Lord's Willing (Johnny Cash)
Misery Loves Company (Porter Wagoner)
Talk About the Good Times (Elvis Presley)
That's All You Gotta Do (Brenda Lee)
U.S. Male (Elvis Presley)
Ashbrook Haynes
Written by Robert Benson
As I continue to review bands for www.ilike2rock.net Internet Radio, I have heard some fantastic music by some very talented artists. One particular band immediately caught my ears: the acoustic mastery and folk-rock sounds of Ashbrook Haynes.
For a band that had its start as a “side” project, the Leominster, Massachusetts-based group has certainly progressed into a finely meshed songwriting team. Their second CD release, “One Long Chase,” is full of catchy guitar licks, impeccable harmonies and well-crafted folk/pop rock.
For many years band members Marc Rines (vocals, guitars) and drummer Bob Soar collaborated, writing 80’s/90’s rock songs with the group Badger. Bob went on to work in studio projects while Marc played bass in a group called The Installers, which released two CDs. After seven years, Marc decided to focus on songwriting and honing his guitar skills. Karen Stanley played with The Luckless Pedestrians and then with the classic rock band The Next Five before concentrating her efforts and energy on songwriting. Paul Bradley had been playing bass with the 60’s rock band Cornerstone before joining Ashbrook Haynes. Dan Stanley was added to the mix, expertly playing lead guitar, while Paul Bradley added his signature bass lines and vocal harmonies to tie it all together. Shawn McCann’s eloquent keyboard work completes the group.
Some cuts on “One Long Chase” certainly stand out, including the infectious “How To Love,” an acoustic ditty with stellar vocal harmonies and expert musicianship. The lead-in bass lines of the funky number “Telephone Song,” immediately reel you in, and the cut progresses into a dazzling bluesy guitar break that is sure to please. “You Make Me Smile” is an instant classic, filled with old-fashioned, fun rock that is sure to get the shiest wallflower up and grooving on the dance floor. “Hold Me,” with its tight-structured guitar work, interwoven harmonies and expert lead guitar licks is another fine, acoustic pop gem.
As a creative change of pace, “When Love Finds You” is a slow-tempo, melodic cut with an exhilarating sweetness and irresistible flavor. “Restless Wind” is delicate, yet strong, and is played with obvious acoustic zest. “Today’s Another Day,” with its reflective lyrics, is an instant “fall in love the first time you hear it” song, with impeccable piano work and interwoven harmonies. It is every bit as infectious as it is original.
All in all the release “One Long Chase” is filled with catchy choruses, tasty contributions from all the band members and seductive acoustic pop. Kudos to all who had a hand in this marvelous, easily digestible pop rock masterpiece!
BAND MEMBERS:
Paul Bradley – Bass, Vocals
Shawn McCann – Keyboards, Vocals
Marc Rines – Vocals, Guitars
Bob Soar – Drums
Dan Stanley – Guitars
Karen Stanley – Vocals, Percussion
Visit the Band:
http://www.ilike2rock.net/members/150/
http://profile.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=user.viewprofile&friendid=313047974
As I continue to review bands for www.ilike2rock.net Internet Radio, I have heard some fantastic music by some very talented artists. One particular band immediately caught my ears: the acoustic mastery and folk-rock sounds of Ashbrook Haynes.
For a band that had its start as a “side” project, the Leominster, Massachusetts-based group has certainly progressed into a finely meshed songwriting team. Their second CD release, “One Long Chase,” is full of catchy guitar licks, impeccable harmonies and well-crafted folk/pop rock.
For many years band members Marc Rines (vocals, guitars) and drummer Bob Soar collaborated, writing 80’s/90’s rock songs with the group Badger. Bob went on to work in studio projects while Marc played bass in a group called The Installers, which released two CDs. After seven years, Marc decided to focus on songwriting and honing his guitar skills. Karen Stanley played with The Luckless Pedestrians and then with the classic rock band The Next Five before concentrating her efforts and energy on songwriting. Paul Bradley had been playing bass with the 60’s rock band Cornerstone before joining Ashbrook Haynes. Dan Stanley was added to the mix, expertly playing lead guitar, while Paul Bradley added his signature bass lines and vocal harmonies to tie it all together. Shawn McCann’s eloquent keyboard work completes the group.
Some cuts on “One Long Chase” certainly stand out, including the infectious “How To Love,” an acoustic ditty with stellar vocal harmonies and expert musicianship. The lead-in bass lines of the funky number “Telephone Song,” immediately reel you in, and the cut progresses into a dazzling bluesy guitar break that is sure to please. “You Make Me Smile” is an instant classic, filled with old-fashioned, fun rock that is sure to get the shiest wallflower up and grooving on the dance floor. “Hold Me,” with its tight-structured guitar work, interwoven harmonies and expert lead guitar licks is another fine, acoustic pop gem.
As a creative change of pace, “When Love Finds You” is a slow-tempo, melodic cut with an exhilarating sweetness and irresistible flavor. “Restless Wind” is delicate, yet strong, and is played with obvious acoustic zest. “Today’s Another Day,” with its reflective lyrics, is an instant “fall in love the first time you hear it” song, with impeccable piano work and interwoven harmonies. It is every bit as infectious as it is original.
All in all the release “One Long Chase” is filled with catchy choruses, tasty contributions from all the band members and seductive acoustic pop. Kudos to all who had a hand in this marvelous, easily digestible pop rock masterpiece!
BAND MEMBERS:
Paul Bradley – Bass, Vocals
Shawn McCann – Keyboards, Vocals
Marc Rines – Vocals, Guitars
Bob Soar – Drums
Dan Stanley – Guitars
Karen Stanley – Vocals, Percussion
Visit the Band:
http://www.ilike2rock.net/members/150/
http://profile.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=user.viewprofile&friendid=313047974
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