Live Shows are Still Alive

With the digital age it’s a wonder live shows still exist but I’m happy there are others who like to see music concerts and other performances live.

I was 16 years old before ever attended a live concert. Where I grew up, there was never any type of live entertainment that my mother took me to see.

Though my mother was open to the experience, we never ended up going. It‘s not like there were a lot of live shows available anyway. Today, there are many, many live shows designed just for children. Each year my daughter and I take a vacation together, and our vacation always includes going to see if you live shows designed just for her.

There are a lot of different live shows for children from which to choose. You have to decide what you want to take your child to. Sometimes children fall in love with television characters that parents cannot stomach.

This is why there was a “no Barney” rule in my home. I could not stomach Barney, and I saw no educational value in that show whatsoever.

I’m sure there was something there that she could have learned, but it was not something she could not have gotten somewhere else. This ensured that I never had to take her to any of Barney’s live shows.

We did however, grow to be quite fond of the Wiggles. This has never been a problem for me, as I enjoy their music as much as she does. We have gone to many of their live shows, and I believe we will do so again in the future.

Though the Wiggles have a target audience of ages two to eight, you will find that many adults in the audience are enjoying the show as much as their children.

Their live shows are a lot of fun, and each year they seem to just get better. I’m not looking forward to what comes next, as I am sure she will outgrow the Wiggles soon enough, and we‘ll have to move on to something else.

I hate to say it, but I have not been to any adult live shows recently. I went to Tennessee to see one of my favorite singers the few years ago, but that has been the only thing I have seen just for myself in the past six or seven years.

Perhaps as I got older the appeal of live shows is just not what it used to be. That doesn’t mean I won’t go again, but it does mean that it is not high on my priority list.

No more music concerts or live shows?

I never thought I would see the day when a concert would not appeal to me, but apparently that day has come. The best thing about this, however, is that I don’t feel like I am missing anything.

Hope you enjoyed this story about live performances and will bookmark to visit again.

Buster Poindexter is Hot Hot Hot

It’s there again! Hot Hot Hot by Buster Poindexter, that is. This song is driving me crazy!! 

Have you ever had a song settle into your brain? While most of these tunes can turn out to be a nuisance I have one that haunts me every now and again.

The Buster Poindexter Hot Hot Hot tune has been a regular guest in my head. Every now and again I hear the catchy tune run its course throughout the day.

Sometimes Buster Poindexter’s Hot, Hot, Hot stays with me for weeks at a time. I find myself folding laundry bopping my head to the tune.

Fortunately, I have enough control over the situation to avoid singing it out loud while at the Laundromat. The song creeps into my subconscious and for at least a few hours my mind is flooded with Buster Poindexter Hot Hot Hot.

While this may seem like a real annoyance I have always loved the song. I am amazed that a tune that is almost as old as I am could have such staying power. My first encounter with Buster Poindexter Hot Hot Hot was through M-TV. This was way back in the day when that channel actually played music videos.

I remember that I really hated the song at first hearing. I was surprised that a punk rocker sidestepped into the mainstream but like so many other pop songs, the Buster Poindexter Hot Hot Hot song soon won me over. I am almost convinced that this was accomplished through brainwashing and repetition.

The Buster Poindexter Hot Hot Hot song has had a long run in my head. After all, I never actually bought the album and I haven’t even downloaded the song on my computer. It is drilled into my memory so deep that there is really no need for me to ever actually hear the song again.

I now find myself changing the words to the song to suit my activity. For example, when washing my toddler I may find myself singing, “See babies soaping. See babies splashing. Water’s hot, hot, hot.” This is probably the first piece of evidence that I am unraveling but it is pretty entertaining.

It doesn’t matter now. The damage is done and I think that I will be occasionally haunted by the Buster Poindexter Hot Hot Hot tune every now and again.

This isn’t so bad. After all, I could be haunted by a tune like “Oops, I did it Again” by Brittany Spears. That would be unbearable. Let’s at least stay luke warm!

Rythmn And Blues Legend Ashanti

A little ditty about an R&B legend. 

Ashanti is an American R&B singer and actress who came into the spotlight during the early 2000s. 

She has released four char topping albums, has appeared on several television shows, and more recently has begun appearing in movies, such as ‘Bride and Prejudice’ (2004), and ‘Coach Carter’ (2005).

Ashanti Biography

Ashanti was born on October 13th, 1980, in Glen Cove, in the Long Island area of New York.  Her full name is Ashanti Shequoyia Douglas, though she uses her first name only professionally. 

Her father is a mix of Chinese and African American, while her mother is a Dominican African American blend. 

The results have worked out very well for Ashanti, she has a kind of exotic and rare beauty that is unique to her.  Her mother was a dance instructor and her father a skilled singer; her stunning good looks and family background for performance made Ashanti an almost certain success in the entertainment industry.

Ashanti’s been singing in gospel choirs from the age of six, and honed her vocals throughout her childhood.  Before she was even in high school she had danced at Carnegie Hall, and a played a role in the Disney TV movie ‘Polly’. 

In 2001, Ashanti caught more attention when she appeared as background vocalist in Vita’s remake of the Madonna song ‘Justify My Love’, and in Big Pun’s single ‘How We Roll’. 

Then in 2002 she was featured in Ja Rule’s ‘Always On Time’ and Fat Joe’s ‘What’s Luv?’, which were both enormous hits and brought Ashanti a lot of recognition.  At one time during the year, these two songs were at the number one and number two slots on the Billboard Hot 100 singles chart.

The Ashanti Album Release 

Ashanti’s new found fame landed her a deal with the label Murder Inc. and she released her first album, self titled ‘Ashanti’ in 2002.  The album went gold in a week, and platinum many times over in the months to come. 

She won numerous awards for her work on the album, including a Grammy, and was without a doubt the hottest new female artist for the year.

Ashanti has released three albums since then, ‘Chapter II’ in 2003, ‘Concrete Rose’ in 2004, and ‘Can’t Stop’ in 2005, though ‘Can’t Stop’ was actually recorded in 1997. 

All of these follow ups have been very successful, but none have matched the sales she gathered on her debut album.

TV Actress Ashanti

The music performer made several television appearances starting in 2003 with a cameo on ‘Buffy the Vampire Slayer’, and on ‘First Date’.  Her first film role came with the ‘Bollywood’ movie ‘Bride and Prejudice’. 

The movie role she is best known for came in 2005 with ‘Coach Carter’ where she acted along with Samuel L. Jackson.  She is scheduled to star in a 2006 movie, ‘John Tucker Must Die’. 

With many talents, a beautiful voice and amazing good looks, hopefully we’ll all be seeing plenty more of Ashanti in the years to come.

Thanks for stopping by the entertainer blog. Hope you’ll bookmark and come in often!

Aaron Carter Songs Come Naturally

Thought I’d change the pace a bit and give the hip hop scene a chance. Aaron Carter is kin to my hero, Maybelle so just had to mention him.

Performing is in the Carter family genes with older brother Nick being a member of boy band, the Backstreet Boys and younger brother Aaron having launched a successful music and acting career.

Aaron Carter Biography

Aaron Carter songs are just a part of his success story. Born in 1987, Aaron was always immersed in music and is a versatile instrumentalist, playing guitar, saxophone, piano, and drums. Choreography is yet another string to his bow.

The pop and hip hop scene has rewarded Aaron with chart success and widespread recognition.

His debut single and first full-length album came out in 1997. The single was titled Crush on You and the album was simply called Aaron Carter. His 2000 album, Aaron’s Party went triple platinum, no mean feat in such a competitive field. Other albums followed in 2001 with Oh Aaron, and in 2002 with Another Earthquake.

A compilation album of all the greatest Aaron Carter songs was released in 2006, titled Come Get It: The Very Best of Aaron Carter. Another album is scheduled for release in 2009.

Movie Actor Aaron Carter

Every singer likes to have the exposure of the movies and Aaron Carter records have been included on several soundtracks, including Pokemon: The First Movie, Rugrats in Paris: The Movie, Jimmy Neutron: Boy Genius, and The Princess Diaries. In addition to this successful career in records, Aaron has acted in television shows, films and on the Broadway stage.

Aaron has appeared in guest roles on the TV hits, Sabrina, The Teenage Witch and on 7th Heaven, in which he plays Ruthie’s boyfriend.

Aaron’s Broadway appearance in 2001 was in the musical, Seussical the Musical, based on the books by Dr. Seuss, in which Aaron plays the part of JoJo the Who. Songs by Aaron Carter can be heard in Aaron’s 2005 debut leading role in a film, titled Popstar.

The film was a straight to video production in which Aaron plays a fictional character called J.D. McQueen but the story is largely autobiographical.

Saturday Night is an Aaron Carter song in the movie that Aaron performed whilst touring. The Popstar soundtrack was released in the same year and contained five Aaron Carter songs.

Aaron was also involved in a charity record, to raise money for the families of victims from the terrorist attacks of 9 /11. Michael Jackson wrote and performed on the song, What More Can I Give? Unfortunately, the record was never released through retail outlets because of a business dispute between Jackson and his record label, but it was made available as a pay for download.

In addition to Aaron and Jackson, over thirty other artists are heard on the record, including Aaron’s brother Nick, Beyonce, Ricky Martin, Usher, Celine Dion, N Sync, and Ziggy Marley, son of Bob.

Aaron also contributed to a celebration of the world of Disney by participating in DisneyMania, a compilation album of various artists in 2002.

The song from Aaron Carter was I Just Can’t Wait to be King. This is the Tim Rice and Elton John composition from The Lion King, sung by a young Simba and Nala in the film. Other artists on the record include Jessica Simpson, Anastacia, S Club 7, and Hilary Duff. Wow, what more can I say about this Carter Family descendent?

Who Is Aaliyah Haughton ?

Glad you dropped by today. Here are a few tidbits about R&B singer Aaliyah.

Aaliyah Haughton was an iconic American R&B singer, model, actress and dancer. 

She is best known for the numerous hit albums she recorded, her modeling work with Tommy Hilfiger, and for her starring roles in the movies ‘Romeo Must Die’ (2000), and ‘Queen of the Damned’ (2001).  She died in a tragic plane accident on August 25th of 2001.

 

Aaliyah  Haughton – A Short Biography

Aaliyah Dana Haughton was born in Brooklyn on January 16th, 1979, to parents Michael and Diane Haughton. 

She spent most of her childhood growing up in Detroit, Michigan, and attended performing arts schools at a young age.  In 1993, she signed on with her uncle, Barry Hankerson’s label and released her first album, ‘Age Ain’t Nothing but a Number’. 

 To date, her first album has sold two million copies in the United States, and five million worldwide. 

In something of a tabloid scandal, it was leaked to the press in 1994 that Aaliyah and R. Kelly, who had co-produced her first album, had been married. 

Aaliyah was 15 at the time, and had apparently claimed to be 18 so that the marriage could commence legally.  Neither Aaliyah or R. Kelly ever confirmed that they had indeed been married, and any marriage they did have was promptly annulled.

Aaliyah released a second album in 1996, ‘One in a Million’, which went double platinum in sales within its first year.  The album was mostly written and produced by Missy Elliot and Tim Mosley. 

Aaliyah and  Tommy Hilfiger

With the attention she gathered from the major success of her second album, Aaliyah caught the eye of Tommy Hilfiger, and was signed on as a model. 

Over the next few years she would do a series of modeling campaigns and advertisements with Hilfiger, and made several guest appearances on the albums of other singers such as Missy Elliot and Timbaland (Tim Mosely).

In 1997 Aaliyah appeared on the soundtrack for the Disney remake of Anastasia, and performed the song in the Oscars that year having been nominated for an award. 

She also appeared on the Doctor Doolittle soundtrack of 1998, her song from that movie becoming a large success. 

In 2000 she began her acting career starring along side Jet Li in ‘Romeo Must Die’, and followed it up with Stuart Townsend in 2001’s ‘Queen of the Damned’. 

While working on the production of ‘Queen of the Damned’, Aaliyah recorded her third album, self-titled ‘Aaliyah’.  When it was released in July of 2001 and went gold within a month. 

The Untimely Death of Aaliyah Haughton

After filming a music video in the Bahamas, Aaliyah boarded a small Cessna airplane with the destination of Miami. 

Unfortunately, the plane crashed into a dense forest shortly after taking off and everyone on board was killed.  It was later revealed that the plane was dangerously overloaded and the pilot had drugs and alcohol in his system. 

It was also reported that the pilot had faked his flying hours in order to get his license. 

Though no longer with us, Aaliyah made a tremendous impact of the R&B world, and her albums are still popular around the world today.

Just another “sad but true” rollercoaster ride from stardomville.

Believe Cher And Her Greatest Hits

I grew up with Sonny and Cher, watched their TV show,  loved their music and even played some of the tunes on my guitar. I was really taken back upon the death of Sonny Bono and still get a little sad when I think about it.

This piece is more about the greatest hits of Cher, not belittling Sonny.

As part of the duo Sonny and Cher, Cher had become a star and she became a full time solo artist following her divorce from Sonny in 1975.

Many Cher greatest hits followed as she made her way on her own. Sonny had been her husband, songwriter and producer but Cher had enough talent and charisma to make it on her own, both as a singer and as an actress.

Cher and her partner had a huge hit in 1965 with I Got You Babe and several other hits followed for the pair. She had a solo hit in 1966 when Sonny wrote a song for her, titled Bang Bang (My Baby Shot Me Down), going to Number 2 in the Billboard 100. It proved that Cher had what it takes.

The first Number 1 record in the US charts came in 1971 with Gypsies, Tramps and Thieves. Cher made her first music video to promote the song.

The Cher greatest hits just keep on commin’

The Cher greatest hits roll call continued two years later when she had another Number 1 with a song called Half-Breed.

The lyrics, about a half white, half Cherokee woman facing racism, was close to Cher’s heart as she too is part Cherokee. Country pop star Shania Twain brought out her own version in 1990.

The Dramatic Dark Lady was the next single to make it to the Number 1 spot. This third chart topper came out in 1974 and it told the story of a crime of passion as the singer tells the story of shooting her boyfriend and his lover.

It was a long gap before she had another Number 1 record. The dance hit, Believe, released in 1998, was worth the wait and it topped the pop charts in 23 different countries.

It also did well on the dance charts. The song won a Grammy Award and it is the biggest selling single of all Cher’s greatest hits in her career.

She gets better with age!

Cher also has the distinction of being the oldest female artist (52 at the time) to have had a Number 1 record in the Billboard 100. Believe is the best selling single of a female artist in the UK.

There have been various compilations throughout the years, of greatest hits by Cher. In 2004, The Very Best of Cher was released and it became a double platinum album in America.

It contained the most famous Cher greatest hits, gong back to I Got You Babe and Bang Bang. It also included Gypsies, Tramps and Thieves, Walking in Memphis, If I Could Turn Back Time and Believe.

Deluxe Edition Of Cher’s Greatest Hits

A Special US Deluxe Edition was released which also contained the live album, Live! The Farewell Tour. This is the only live Cher album. Recorded at a concert in Miami, it is also available as a DVD.

In addition to the familiar greatest hits from Cher, the live album contains covers of I Still Haven’t Found What I’m Looking For by U2 and Bob Dylan’s classic, All I Really Want to Do.

All I really want to do is go get some of Cher’s greatest hits on cd, sit back, relax and remember the good ole’ days.

Tammy Wynette – A Country Music Legend

I can still hear the music of Tammy Wynette coming from the radio we had in our kitchen. Whether you liked her music or not, she is certainly a country music star to be remembered.

Country music has a handful of female stars that could be described as icons and Tammy Wynette is one of them.

Known as the First Lady of Country Music, she had a career as a best selling artist and was respected by her fellow performers.

She wrote many songs, including the one most associated with her, Stand By Your Man.

Tammy Wynette Biography

Born in 1942 in Tremont, Mississippi, she learnt to play piano and guitar as a young child and grew up listening to her favorite gospel and country singers.

Following graduation from High School and marriage to her first husband, she embarked on a series of jobs before becoming a qualified hairdresser.

Part-time country singer Tammy Wynette

She then began performing her music as a sideline to gain additional income. Tammy Wynette made an important decision in leaving her marriage and moving, with her three daughters, to the capital of the country music scene, Nashville.

She eventually got a record contract with Epic Records and her first single was released in 1966, reaching the top 40 in the country charts. She was to have three Top 10 country hits just a year later and three number one country hits the following year. These were for Take Me To Your World, D-I-V-O-R-C-E and Stand By Your Man.

The late 1960s and early 1970s brought continued success in the album and singles charts. Tammy Wynette was a true superstar, a familiar household name even to those who were not country fans.

Director Bob Rafelson brought her to another audience when he chose some of her songs for the soundtrack of his movie, Five Easy Pieces. By the 1980s however, the sales started to decline. Nevertheless, she remained a popular live performer and released a final album in 1993.

Tammy Wynette is gone at a young age

Following numerous medical problems, she died of a cardiac arrhythmia in 1998, aged fifty-five.

The singer’s own private life could have been the subject of many dramatic country songs. She had married five times, her third husband being the country music star, George Jones.

They remained friends and recorded duets when together and after they divorced. Her fourth marriage only lasted six weeks.

Tammy Wynette received the most publicity for her romances when she had a relationship with actor, Burt Reynolds during the 1970s. She had four children and her final marriage lasted until her death.

Peers of Tammy Wynette

Perhaps only Dolly Parton, Loretta Lynne and Patsy Cline can be said to be in the same league as Tammy Wynette.

She has been parodied, as country stars tend to be and Stand By Your Man is a regular victim of tortured renditions at karaoke. Her reputation as a super recording artist rises above this and fans remember her vividly. This first lady of country music will certainly go down in history as one of the greats in her field.

Bette Midler – A Short Biography

What can I say. Bette Midler is the perfect example of a superstar entertainer who has done it all. Movies, TV, popular music singer, you name it, Bette’s done it!  

She has acted in a number of Broadway productions, countless films, has won a Tony Award, an Emmy, and has released over a dozen music albums.

This is just a small tribute to Ms. Midler and her amazing accomplishments.

About Bette Midler

Born in Honolulu, Hawaii on December 1st, 1945, Bette Midler was named after the legendary Hollywood icon, Bette Davis, although Midler pronounces her first name as a single syllable. 

Bette was the third of four children to parents Fred and Ruth Midler; Fred was a house painter and Ruth a homemaker.  Her older sisters Judy and Susan were named after Judy Garland and Susan Hayward.  Her younger brother Daniel suffered from a mental disability. 

Her Interest in Theater

Bette was interested in stage acting from a young age and performed in school plays and talent shows throughout grammar school and high school. 

When she graduated, she got a part in the movie ‘Hawaii’, and was encouraged enough to move to New York to try and crack into the professional acting world. 

Stardom and Tragedy for Bette Midler

Her efforts eventually paid off when Midler won a part in the chorus of ‘Fiddler on the Roof’, and eventually was moved into a starring role in the same production.  Her sister Judith died in a tragic car accident while visiting Bette from Hawaii. 

After working in a series of nightclubs, Midler released her first album, ‘The Divine Miss M’ in 1972 and went on tour to promote it marking the beginning of what would be a long succession of chart toping albums and successful tours. 

The Singer Bette Midler

Her success as a singer began landing her roles in films, and when she played the Janis Joplin inspired character of the movie ‘The Rose’ in 1978 she was nominated for an Oscar.

Bette The Actress

Up to that point she’d been famous mostly for her singing, but Bette proved that she could act with the ‘The Rose’ and would go on to star in many other movies afterwards. 

In several of the movies she appeared in, she would also write and perform portions of the soundtrack, such as with the 1988 movie ‘Beaches’. 

Midler is still released music, going on tour, and appearing in movies today.  Her most recent film appearance was the 2003 remake of ‘The Stepford Wives’, which met with mixed reviews but did well in the box office. 

She seems to be one of those stars people either love or hate, but even her most ardent critics admit that she is a very talented performer. Either way, I believe Bette Midler will be around for a while longer. Her popular songs and movies will still sell and give pleasure to those who adore her.

Put The Fire And Rain In A James Taylor Song

I have many favorite performers who blossomed during the 1970s and James Taylor is certainly one of them.

Notwithstanding the Eagles, Deep Purple and others in the arena, Mr. Taylor had a soothing voice almost reaching a hypnotic state relaxing his listeners and telling his stories.

The singer songwriter boom of the 1970s owed a lot to James Taylor, an artist who has been recording and performing ever since and who has written songs that became classics.

Most people can hum a James Taylor song and he has the respect of fellow musicians. His contribution was officially recognized when he was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2000.

Taylor made an impact at the prestigious Newport Folk Festival in 1969 but his first album had disappointing sales. The follow up however, Sweet Baby James, was a huge success and produced the hit single, Fire and Rain. The third album, Mud Slide Slim and the Blue Horizon, was another best seller and produced another hit single.

You’ve Got A Friend – From Carole To A James Taylor Song

This time, it wasn’t a song by  James Taylor but a cover of Carole King’s You’ve Got a Friend, a song that Taylor made his own. The single won a Grammy award and was number one on the Billboard chart.

Many albums have followed over the years and the highlights were collected on the 1976 Greatest Hits album, which achieved diamond sales and is still the best selling album for him.

It featured a new version of another famous James Taylor song, Carolina On My Mind. Other tracks include Fire and Rain, You’ve Got a Friend and a cover of How Sweet It Is (To Be Loved By You), penned by the songwriting team of Holland, Dozier and Holland).

Fellow musicians can be heard on the album, on backing vocals, including David Crosby, Carole King, Joni Mitchell and Carly Simon.

A second compilation came in 2000 when the Greatest Hits Volume 2 was released. In addition to James Taylor song titles, the album contains two great covers.

One is Up On the Roof, an early song written by the Goffin and King partnership and the other is Handy Man, written by O.Blackwell and J.Jones.

Again, guest musicians help out on the album, including Stevie Wonder on harmonica and Yo Yo Ma from the classical world, on cello.

James Taylor Christmas Songs

Not many folk / pop singers have brought out Christmas records but Taylor released an album of familiar, festive songs on James Taylor: A Christmas Album in 2004.

The songs include Winter Wonderland, Baby, It’s Cold Outside with Natalie Cole, Jingle Bells and Santa Claus Is Coming To Town.

The Music Of James Taylor Keeps On Comin’

The latest recording from Taylor is a 2007 CD and DVD set called One Man Band. He continues to entertain his legions of fans that now span different generations.

A James Taylor song has always delivered his rich, mellow voice and accomplished guitar playing. Taylor’s ability as a songwriter puts him up there with the other greats.

If you havent’ listened to music by James Taylor lately, or perhaps you’re too young to remember, dig up one of his early records and live the experience of this talented performer.

Have You Spotted Elvis Albums Lately?

Even after all these years fans still follow and sometimes claim to spot Elvis Presley in locations all over the world. But, this article is not so much about the controversy as the excitement still felt over his albums and cds.

One of the most popular recording artists of all time was Elvis Presley. His recording career spanned from 1954 until his untimely and tragic death in August of 1977.

The Versatility Of Elvis Albums

Over the course of those twenty three years Presley left an indelible mark on the music industry in so many different ways. He could sing any style of music from country to rock to gospel and never did his voice fail him.

With millions of records sold over the years there is little wonder that almost everyone you meet can tell you their favorite Elvis album.

From his first recording for his mother in 1954 Elvis was destined for stardom. By the time he had his contract with Sun Records sold to RCA Victor for thirty five thousand dollars in 1956, teenage girls everywhere simply could not get enough of him.

His initial recording for RCA Records was Heartbreak Hotel and it soon became a number one hit. The first Elvis album released by the major record label was filled with hits and the King of Rock and Roll was well on his was to stardom.

After recording many hits and making three movies for Paramount Pictures in Hollywood, Elvis was drafted into the United States Army. He spent two years in Germany while his manager continued to make sure his music was always heard back home.

Upon his return to the States, Elvis starred in the movie G.I. Blues and the latest Elvis album was again rising to the top of the charts.

Although subsequent soundtrack albums did not fare as well as his early recordings, Presley still maintained an enormous fan base.

After completing his contract for movies, Elvis began to record more mainstream music beginning in 1969 with the release of “From Elvis in Memphis”.

 This newest Elvis album was an instant hit as Presley had returned to his roots of mixing country and soul after years of generic made for movie music. It was at this time that Elvis began thinking of returning to live performing after almost a decade away from the stage.

Las Vegas And The Return Of The King Of Rock And Roll

By the end of 1969 Las Vegas was calling and the King was back on top. His first live appearance since 1960 resulted in yet another top selling Elvis album, “From Memphis to Vegas”.

Presley then began to relentlessly tour the United States selling out in every venue as he traveled around the country.

His final recordings were at his home studio in Graceland in October of 1976. From those sessions came his last studio album, Moody Blue, which was released just before his death in 1977.

To this day some thirty years after his death, there isn’t an Elvis fan alive who can’t immediately tell you what there most memorable Elvis album is.

He was that popular and that talented. His premature death left a void in the hearts of music fans worldwide. This is just one of many stories about the king of rock and his many album hits. Do a search and you’ll find plenty more. How many Elvis Pressley albums do you own?

The Carter Family And Wildwood Flower

When I first started learning the guitar, the first song I played was Wildwood Flower by Maybelle Carter. Seems so long ago and many are gone but I still hold a warm place in my heart for the Carter family.

The country music scene has royalty in its midst as every musician owes a debt of gratitude to the Carter Family.

 

Their recording and performing career still influences today. Raised in the bluegrass country of Virginia, the family grew up listening to the local gospel sounds from the mountains. Alvin Carter, his wife Sara and Maybelle Carter were a group from 1927-1943. Maybelle was married to Alvin’s brother, Ezra Carter.

 

They made a record in the heart of country music, Nashville with Jimmie Rogers, who was already a star. The family never looked back, with a string of popular songs and live shows on the radio and on stage.

The Carters – A Family Affair

Music ran through the genes of this family. In 1939, the daughter of Ezra and Maybelle, June Carter joined the group. Sara left the group in 1943 and so they broke up.

 

The Carter Family musical tradition continued however, as Maybelle and her daughters, June, Anita and Helen formed their own group. They were around to enjoy the big country and folk music revival in the 1960s.

Carter Family Style Flatpicking – A Musical Transformation

The contribution to the country scene that these family members made cannot be overstated.

 

Maybelle developed her own individual style of guitar playing on steel strings, known as the Carter style flatpicking, which is still used today. It was Maybelle who transformed the guitar into a lead instrument, doing solos, which country groups had not done before.

Songs Written By The Carters

Songwriting by the group also had a big impact on the scene, as various artists copied, were inspired by or downright stole their songs.

 

Woody Guthrie, the man whom Bob Dylan hero worshipped, adapted their When the World’s on Fire into This Land is Your Land, becoming an unofficial American national anthem. Dylan and Joan Baez both covered Carter songs.

The family produced an individual star in June Carter, singer songwriter and guitarist, banjo and autoharp player.

 

Johnny And June Carter Cash

June is mostly famous for being married to the legendary Johnny Cash. They were married for thirty-five years and both died in the same year of 2003.

 

June Carter Cash, as she became known, was recently played by Reese Witherspoon in the biography drama, Walk the Line. The film, which explored the relationship between June and Johnny, was critically acclaimed.

The Carters Make The Country Music Hall Of Fame

In 1970, the family was duly honored by being elected into the Country Music Hall of Fame. The musical genes are still strong with the Carter Family and they have passed the baton on to the next generation.

 

Johnny’s daughter from a previous marriage, June’s stepdaughter, Rosanne Cash has also enjoyed a successful career as a singer.

 

The Carter family came a long way from the Blue Ridge Mountains and the ripples are still being felt. I can still hear Maybelle playing Wildwood Flower on my old phonograph (in my mind). Wish she was here.

Folk Writer And Singer John Denver

When I think of folk music and the 60s, I think of John Denver. His music was so clean and pure. He loved the mountains and nature so expressed his inner thoughts through his songs. I’ll certainly miss him. – Bob

The legacy of John Denver

John Denver is a name synonymous with Colorado; his music greatly inspired by his adopted home state and the beautiful Rocky Mountain landscape.

This entertainer is known all around the world as a talented American singer and songwriter.

Born as Henry John Deutscendorf, John Denver began his career as a folk rock musician in the early 1960s and soon thereafter joined the Mitchell Trio as their new lead singer.

Puff The Magic Dragon? – Not quite!

His next success came when Peter, Paul, and Mary recorded his song “Leaving On A Jet Plane”, their first and only Number One single.

John Denver was with the Trio most of four years, and after the group disbanded he found himself on the top of the Pop charts as one of the biggest selling artists during the 1970s.

Some of his most popular hits include “Rocky Mountain High”, “Take Me Home, Country Roads”, “Sunshine On My Shoulders”, “Thank God I’m A Country Boy”, “Back Home Again”, and “Annie’s Song”.

John Denver was not only well known for his music, but for his activism in a variety of environmental and humanitarian causes.

He expressed his views gently and compassionately through his lyrics encouraging listeners to get closer to the earth and nature in a peaceful and compassionate manner.

Rocky Mountain High 

John’s music was greatly influenced by his experiences living in the Rocky Mountains near Aspen, Colorado. The snow, the sunshine, the beauty of all of nature interacting, that was what inspired John Denver to compose his heartfelt musical creations.

John Denver – Muppet & movie star 

He collaborated with Jim Henson the creator of the Muppets and appeared on many episodes and recorded CDs with the lovable cast as well. John also had a major acting role in the hit movie “Oh God!” with George Burns. 

The death of John Denver        

John Denver continues to be one of the most popular artists of the twentieth century. He died tragically on October 12, 1997 in an aircraft he had just purchased and was piloting for the first time, after it crashed because of low fuel.

He lived his life close to nature immersing himself in his singing and songwriting, while making great contributions to charitable organizations, as well as environmental, and humanitarian efforts. J

ohn Denver will remain in our hearts forever, and his music will never be forgotten.

Fans can learn more about John Denver at www.johndenver.com . Or, you can discover his music for the first time if you’re not familiar.

The music recorded by this folk legend will be played and cherished for years to come with the next generation of John Denver fans.

A Song For American Workers

Putting Together A Powerful

Song For America

 

Normally, I don’t post anything political but this was so moving I had to share it with you.

I love my country and this music video portrays the state of America today.

 

The song is titled “Born Again American” and was put together by a variety of musicians and singers all across the country displaying all walks of life.

 

I could talk all day about this but the music is awesome and says it all!

 

Watch the video and listen to the song here …

Let me hear your comments below.

Thanks for reading,

Bob

Love 70s Rock Music? Are You In Bad Company?

I love most types of tunes but I’m especially partial to 70s rock music. There are so many great bands from this era and so, finally picking one for today’s post, I chose Bad Company.

If you do not recognize the name of this great rock band Bad Company you soon will be! Since it’s inception in 1974, Bad Company has set the standard for classic rock n roll.

The band was originally led by vocalist Paul Rodgers, drummer Simon Kirke, and guitarist Mick Ralphs; Rodgers and Kirke were previously members of the influential band Free, best known for “All Right Now” from their album Fire and Water.

After Free disbanded in 1973, Rodgers and Kirke joined Ralphs, who was previously with Mott the Hoople, and Boz Burrell from King Crimson, to form a new band called Bad Company.

Bad Company Gets A New Start

Soon the band was signed on with a new label, Swan Song Records, by Led Zeppelin’s manager Peter Grant, and their self-titled debut album was released in 1974.

The album began selling at frenzied rates and soon hit the top position on the Billboard chart soon thereafter with the number one single “Can’t Get Enough”.

Top Of The Music Charts 

During the next eight years, Bad Company released more chart topping albums, Desolation Angels, Straight Shooter, and Run with the Pack, featuring chart topping hits like “Rock n Roll Fantasy”, “Shooting Star”, “Feel Like Making Love”, “Burnin’ Sky”, and “Running with the Pack”.

The band disintegrated in 1982 after a succession of crazy arena shows, and the death of Led Zeppelin’s drummer John Bonham.

After a hiatus, Paul Rodgers and Jimmy Page formed the Firm in 1984, and Bad Company got a new lead singer, Brian Howe.

A New Musical Sound For The Bad Company Band

The 80s brought out a slightly different sound with the release of the next four albums, including the platinum Holy Water.

After Howe left Bad Company, the band decided it was time to get back to the original gritty rock and blues that the band was first founded on with new lead singer Robert Hart.

Original lead singer Paul Rodgers is back with the band again joining Simon Kirke as they set new tour dates and perform Bad Company classics.

The band continues to be one of the most influential, along side Led Zeppelin, whose bluesy rock compilations graced the charts for over two decades.

Bad Company fan sites abound with lots of interesting facts about the band, interviews with band members, discography, photos, and Bad Company tour information.

If you have never seen Bad Company on tour, now is your chance – and with original lead singer Paul Rodgers! Keep checking on the official Bad Company website, www.badcompany.com, and other fan sites such as www.allrightnow.com for all the latest.

Okay, now you’ve read all about this unique band, youv’e seen some of their song titles listed here, now it’s time to go down to the music store and get your first Bad Company album (on cd of course). ‘Nuff said!!

You Got A Lot Of Nerve To Ask For A Bob Dylan CD

With a voice and style so unique, it’s unmistakable, a Bob Dylan cd is a welcome addition to any music lover’s collection especially if you are into 70s rock and roll. Like a Rolling Stone is one of my favorite tunes by Bob.

Anyone who appreciates good music that carries profound messages should own at least one Bob Dylan CD.

This artist is a true master of songwriting and performing. His songs span generations and it is impossible to find a comprehensive collection on just one Bob Dylan compact disc.

However, you can get a good start on your collection with just one purchase.

I am a big fan of this talented musician. Many say that he doesn’t have the best singing voice in the world and I agree but there is more to singing that the tonal quality of the singer’s voice.

I found this out when I took Brett Manning’s Singing Course a while back. I was delighted that even my voice counts for something! 

This is apparent once you listen to any Bob Dylan CD. I like to compare this artist to Johnny Cash for a few reasons.

Johnny Cash had an unusual quality to his voice but once he sang a song, he made it his own. Even though Cash wasn’t really a songwriter, he had a way of recreating the composition through his singing.

If you listen closely to a Bob Dylan CD you will find that he makes each song speak to the listener with a profound message.

His messages have changed over the years and I guess that this is to be expected. His earlier songs appeal to the peace and love generation from the 1960’s and 1970’s.

Some songs found on a Bob Dylan CD that appeal to this sentiment include “Blowin’ in the Wind” which was covered by another band.

A Bob Dylan CD Might Not Always Be Original – But His Voice Is!

In fact, many of the songs found on a Bob Dylan CD compilation will include tunes covered by other artists. Dylan is first and foremost a songwriter, not a performer.

However, his presentation and quality of tone can’t be overlooked. He had to start recording to appease his many fans.

The Essential Bob Dylan CD is a compilation of his hits. However, this contains only two compact discs. This is not nearly enough space to cover four decades of work.

This collection does make a pretty good start, though. If you are an avid Dylan fan or even if you want to become familiar with the artist, you might want to try the Essential compilation.

After you become familiar with this 1970 classic artist you will probably want to delve deeper into his collection of works. There are plenty of Bob Dylan CD choices available and you are sure to be pleased with the songs if you like the compilation.

One of the best Dylan songs is “Things Have Changed” from the Wonder Boys soundtrack.

You really can’t fully appreciate the depth of the lyric until you become familiar with his portfolio. Once you own a Bob Dylan CD, you are sure to be buying others in the future.

Some of my other favorite Dylan tracks are ones that perfectly blend words and melody into a sublime whole.

The Best Of Bob Dylan CD

A best of Bob Dylan cd should feature Gates of Eden, Boots of Spanish Leather and It’s Alright Ma, I’m only Bleeding.

He may have gone in and out of fashion and alienated some fans with his various phases but he remains one of the true geniuses of music. A Bob Dylan cd should not be played as background music but listened to properly.

In this world awash with mediocre manufactured pop, he is a poet and deserves our respect. There are those who are greater than the sum of their parts and Bob Dylan is a member of that stellar few.

Now, it’s off with you to the music store to start y0ur collection with your very first Bob Dylan CD. Enjoy a different musical style today!

Does Johnny Cash Music Make You Walk The Line?

There are few music entertainers better known than the man in black, Johnny Cash. He spanned so many years with unique music while he was alive and continues to sing and inspire even after his death.

 

My change in music tastes and love for Johnny Cash tunes

 

I’ve never been a big fan of country music. Nashville just never really interested or inspired me. However, Johnny Cash music is a whole other story. There is something about the way that he used his voice to convey emotion and meaning in the lyrics that makes his work wonderful to hear.

 

There is little out there that has moved as many people as the music of Johnny Cash.  From punks to preachers, from country music fans to hipsters, everyone loves Johnny cash music. 

 

He is one of those Great American songwriters whose work unites people from all walks of life.  When I wear my Johnny Cash T-shirt, I get compliments from almost everyone I meet.  He is a true musical genius, and musical geniuses find fans everywhere.

 

It took me a long time to realize how great Johnny cash music was.  You see, the first person I ever knew who listened to Johnny Cash was my dad. 

 

Kids can appreciate their parents’ taste in books, their parents’ taste in people, and their parents’ taste in food. 

 

What no adolescent can appreciate, however, is their parents’ taste in music.  If my dad liked Johnny cash music, it was obvious that Johnny cash music was square.

 

That all changed when I met my first girlfriend.  She was a bit of a country girl, to tell you the truth. 

 

She liked all the old country stars, including Willie Nelson, Kris Kristofferson, Merle Haggard, and Bill Monroe.  Whether it was country, bluegrass, Western, or Appalachian music, she could not get enough of it.  Most of all, she loved Johnny cash music. 

 

I was in no position to tell my first girlfriend that I hated the music that she listened to. 

 

At first, I pretended to like Johnny cash music just to humor her,  but soon it started to grow on me.  I guess that, up to that point, I’d never given it a chance.  I associated it with my dad, and I took it as a given that anything that my dad would listen to had to be awful. 

 

But honestly, once I started listening to the music of the man in black, it blew my mind.  I had never heard anything like it.

 

After a broken heart, Johnny Cash music continued to confort me

I got my heart broken by that girl, and it was a long time before I could listen to anything that she had played for me.  After long enough though, I was drawn back to the music of Johnny Cash. 

 

I have been listening to Johnny cash music ever since.  To tell you the truth, it is almost always on my play list. 

 

Although I don’t listen to it every day, barely a week goes by that Johnny Cash music can’t be heard through my open window.  How about you? Have you discovered the man in black?

Allman Brothers Tickets – A Trip Back In Time

It’s very seldom that you find a style of music that’s so unique it’s frozen in time but this music group, along with many other performers coming from the 1970s fit the bill.

 

As fate would have it, around age 11 Greg Allman decided to save up and buy a $21 guitar. This was the first step into musical history.

 

Southern rock, as it came to be known, was a prominent force in the 1970s and 1980s. The Allman Brothers band was at the forefront of the sound, blending blues, country music and rock together.

 

They were always well respected for their musicianship and have won numerous awards and accolades.

 

Despite lineup changes caused by tragedies, conflict and drug abuse, the band continues today and Allman Brothers tickets are much sought after.

 

It is remarkable that the band has revived, given the difficult history. Two original members died in separate motorcycle accidents. Duane Allman was killed in 1971 and bassist, Berry Oakley was killed a year later.

 

Lamar Williams died in 1983 from lung cancer and Allen Woody died in 2000, cause of death was undisclosed. Despite the troubled times, Allman Brothers tickets remain hot property.

 

My Personal Ticket To The Allman Brothers Band Concert

 

I can still remember the first time I ever got Allman Brothers band tickets. I was 16 years old and just discovering classic rock.. It was quite a revelation to me, really.

 

You see, I had grown up listening to what was on the radio. My parents had some old Jefferson airplane records, but they rarely pulled them out.

Mostly, they listened to classical music, which I couldn’t get into. When o

ne of my friends played some old Derek and the Dominoes records for me, it was better than anything I had ever heard before!

 

Soon I was listening to every classic rock album that I could get my hands on from that era. The Allman Brothers Band, however, was one of my favorites. Yep, Greg and the boys could really churn it out!

 

When I found out that they were not only still around, but were coming to town soon, I knew that I had to get Allman Brothers tickets. Needless to say, my parents were a little bit nervous about it.

 

I think it was probably guilt caused by their own youthful excesses. They were worried that, if I started to go to concerts and listen to classic rock, I would get into drugs.

 

I assured them that I would be good, and after a long discussion they relented. I waited in line for hours and hours for those Allman Brothers tickets to go on sale.

 

Unfortunately, a lot of people got there even earlier than me, and by the time I got to the ticket counter I was worried that all the good seats would be sold out.

 

Fortunately, they were playing in an outdoor pavilion with a big grassy open seating area. I wouldn’t be right in the front with the high priced seats, but I wouldn’t be stuck way in the back either.

 

The Allman Brothers Band ticket line

It was not so bad waiting in line for the Allman Brothers tickets. My best friend was there with me, and we joked and laughed the whole time.

 

He liked to play older and wiser because he had gone to a few shows himself. You see, his dad played in a local band on the weekends, So he acted like he knew all about music.

 

He did know quite a bit more than me. The whole time we were waiting in line for those Allman Brothers tickets, he was lecturing on the history of classic rock.

 

None of it, however, prepared me for the actual Allman Brothers concert. Maybe it was because it was my first concert, but I still think it is one of the best shows I have ever seen.

Carrie Underwood – The Hot Country American Idol

Just ran across a site showing the biography of the hot American Idol Carrie Underwood. She is so unique because not many country music artists make it on this tv show, much less win!

She is truly becoming one of America’s favorite country music entertainers so hope you enjoy reading about her. The Carrie Underwood style is unmistakable and her bio is sooo interesting.

Be sure to read this before turning on another episode of American Idol.

Your favorite music entertainer is alive again!

I created this blog because of my love of live music. But, there are so many different websites that are general I thought I’d focus on bios and stories about music entertainers.

Although I am a little older now, I perfomed regionally as a singer and bass player for about 20 years so this is my passion.

I grew up watching great musicians and groups such as The Eagles, Allman Brothers Band, Deep Purple and all the way over to Willie Nelson and The Judds. I love almost any type of music and have even caught myself sitting in the audience of a classical orchestra concert!

I hope to give you some great stories about well known, and not so well known music entertainers and performers so stay tuned and stay in touch.

This music to ear by blog is all about music entertainers and I will keep you interested with stories about performers, groups, bands and lots of other great stuff!

Thanks for visiting! Bookmark this blog please!