Music Bender

Bruth-uhs an’ Sisss-tuhhhs, they’s POWWWW-uhhhh in th’ MEWWWW-zikkk!! Howl-lay-loo-yuh!! (ahem … okay, so much for my preacher impersonation. Now ya see why I’m a writer …)

Hey … it’s true! Sixties rock — especially that which hit our shores from the “British Invasion” — carried with it an amazing ability to heal! (hmph … wish my dog would learn tha … oh. That’s “heel”, right? Sorry.)

Y’see, many of the early hits had a definitive rhythmic “bounce” to them. They were danceable, to be sure … but also easy to keep time with. This, according to psychologists, helped improve physical biorhythm. And the harmony helped add substance to the song, thus their listenability.
It caught the listener’s concentrated attention as well (for example, one of the reasons the Vanity Fare hit, Hitchin’ A Ride, was so popular is that kids were listening for the one note that was offkey at the end of each verse of the chorus).

Largely, harmony can evoke intense feelings, depending upon the song: romance, sadness, happiness and courage. But the hook of the song is what would get the song into the subconscious, where the listener would hear it over and over. (In fact, Over and Over is also an example! But the greatest of the time, obviously, was the Beatles’ She Loves You.)
And, if the song is something that’s lively, happy and is embedded there, then it can help fans out of any “blues” they feel.

Now … going to the instrumental side for a moment: Early bands were sometimes inspired by the lower-four-string style of American guitarist Duane Eddy. The deeper sounds are often considered physically therapeutic as well as emotionally.

KEEPING IT CLEAN

With recent medical news broadcasts stressing the importance of colon health, much of America is beginning to see that its cleansing provides some great long-term results as well as ward off the fear of cancer in that region.
The only problem we face, in fact, is finding the best cleanser to use. Many stores (from department to pharmacies) will carry different items and brands, and we can easily become confused as to their effectiveness.
But there’s one spot on the web that’ll review the best colon cleansers on the market today, and all so you’ll feel more at-ease when choosing one! They research cleansing power, ingredients, benefits, value, customer reviews and more. In fact, they even give you a “heads-up” about the “free-trial” scams that end up doing more harm than good.
So, for the peace-of-mind you deserve, click on that link you just passed and compare the top colon-cleansing products — then you can choose and use the best with confidence!

Now … that’s all the time we have for this post,  but check back in about 24 or so for more on the “Healing Power of ClassicRock” and other tidbits. Until then, remember: Keep your eyes on the skies, your feet on the ground, your heart with the music …

and I’ll see ya on the flip side!

The legendary ’80s band, Cheap Trick, is planning to interpret The Beatles’ classic album “Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band” during a September Las Vegas gig.

The band will kick off the shows, complete with a full symphony orchestra, 13 September at the Las Vegas Hilton. It’ll run for nine nights and will feature “special musical guests to be announced later,” according to promoters.

“We are going to make rock ‘n’ roll history by incorporating this legendary American rock group with the music of The Beatles,” said Bill Edwards, the show’s producer, in a press statement. “This is a groundbreaking performance that everyone said couldn’t be done live, but Cheap Trick has perfected it.”

The shows (with seats starting at only $65 apiece) will take place at the Hilton Theater, where Elvis Presley held an 837-night engagement in the early ’70s, according to a press release.

Audio production of the show will be overseen by Geoff Emerick, who was the original audio engineer on “Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band,” working alongside producer George Martin. The production’s stage will be constructed by veteran set designer Rene Lagler.

Cheap Trick’s latest album, appropriately titled “The Latest,” is due in stores June 23.

The set, produced by Julian Raymond, follows 2006’s “Rockford,”  the group’s first set since 2003’s “Special One,” which was hailed by fans and critics alike as a return to form for the veteran rockers.
Before hitting Vegas, the band will head out on the road for a lengthy tour this summer with Def Leppard and Poison. The 40-city trek kicks off June 23 in Camden, NJ.

The Rolling Stones played there. So did The Beatles, The Kinks and The Who. Producer/legend Alfred Hitchcock frequented the place as well.

Now it’s in danger of closing for good …

And Mick Jagger is now using his clout to front a campaign to save the EMD Cinema in Walthamstow, north-east London,.

It’s listed as a Grade II historic building. Sold in 2003, planning permission to keep it open, unfortunately, has been denied.

“Cinemas and live venues like the Granada in Walthamstow where the Stones played in the early days, learning our craft on the way, are the lifeblood of our cultural history,” said the Stones front man. “They helped launched British popular music on to a world stage and should continue to function as places of entertainment and enjoyment.”

“It’s heartbreaking to hear about such a beautiful, important historical building and center of entertainment being lost to the local community.
I fully support the campaign to keep it open and provide film, music and the arts for generations to come.”

To many Londoners, its closing would be much like The Flamingo Club closing its doors … or having The Cavern shut down in Liverpool (as we all know, the original was razed … then rebuilt!). Taking such an important piece of musical history and just throwing it away is, IMHO, idiotic! The tourist value alone would more than pay for its continued upkeep!

Now, joining Sir Mick in supporting the campaign is Tony Robinson — but even you can get involved! Just click on their Facebook page for more.

A very special edition of Rock Band is gonna be debuting on 9/9/09 in the form of The Beatles (incidentally, 9 was John Lennon’s favorite number.

Of course, everyone’s excited about the new edition. Even Sir Macca himself is eager for its release (considering his background screens during his Coachella appearance was pretty much a commercial for it)!

It’s billed as a “first-of-its-kind music-based video game offers a revolutionary tour of The Beatles’ music, career, and legacy.”
September 9, btw, is also the date the Beatles’ entire discography is released in digitally remastered format.

The game will have 45 songs, with these verified so far:

“I Saw Her Standing There”
“I Want To Hold Your Hand”
“I Feel Fine”
“Taxman”
“Day Tripper”
“Back In The USSR”
“I Am The Walrus”
“Octopus’s Garden”
“Here Comes The Sun”
“Get Back”

And dig this: they’re promising all of the Abbey Road album for future download purchase, as well as others from the discography!

HITTING #1

This past weekend, the popular UK band THE FORE hit the #1 spot on the Unsigned Chart show — for the second time!
And now they’re goin’ for the gold at Overplay, where their hit You’ll Be Mine is already #4 this week on the main charts, #2 on the pop charts (remember, they’ve got a lot of competition for the position!).
Now, just as you helped them get the top spot on Unsigned, you can do the same at Overplay!
Just click this link (it takes you to the chart where you can play the hit) and give You’ll Be Mine a listen! With each click, the lads get closer to #1! (Oh … did I mention it’s also a free download?)
And, on behalf of Spencer, Matt, Si and Nathan, thanks for your helping the band get to the top at Unsigned! You all are amazing!

Remember to circle July 10 on your calendars!

The reason? Beatlemaniacs from around the world will be celebrating their favorite band during Beatles Day 09 — and raise money for Yoko Ono’s Imagine Appeal which will use their share for the Alder Hey Children’s Hospital (the largest children’s hospital in Europe). Part of the receipts will also go to the Marina Dalglish Appeal for a radiotherapy center in Liverpool.

Officially launched by Julia Baird (John Lennon’s sister) and Ricky Tomlinson, the event will take place in places as diverse as China, Russia, New Zealand and, natch, the Beatles’ hometown of Liverpool.

Last year’s event (which was actually the first, and raised a few international eyebrows as one of the highlights is for everyone to wear Beatle wigs) raised over £45,000.
Liverpool will once again host a concert as part of the event, and there will be loads of merchandise and happenings available.

Oh … in case yer wonderin’, July 10 was chosen as the date because it’s the anniversary of the Beatles triumphant return to Liverpool from the States and the premiere of the film ‘Hard Day’s Night’ in 1964. On that day, the streets were lined with thousands of adoring fans, and organizers hope to they can recreate the same sort of Beatlemania atmosphere this year.

The Summer Pops promoter, Chas Cole, said, “It’s 24 hours when people can show their love for the Beatles and celebrate the legacy of their music. The concert at the Echo Arena will be a great way to finish, but Beatles Day is really a chance for the ordinary people of Liverpool and other towns and cities all over the world to take part in Beatles-related fundraising activities and events. The most important thing is to have fun whilst raising money.

Liverpool will be the center of events on 10th July. It would be a great time to visit and let the people show you what makes this city truly great; its heritage, humor, boundless enthusiasm under pressure and above all, its ability to not take itself too seriously. BEATLES DAY here we come!

Since 1914, the Alder Hey Children’s Hospital has led the way in the care of sick children and now treats more than 200,000 young patients every year.

To find out more about this event, here’s the article from the Liverpool Echo.

“Caught the early plane back to London/Fifty acorns tied in a sack/The men from the press said, ‘We wish you success, it’s good to have the both of you back’”

You remember the words from “The Beatles’” Ballad Of John and Yoko (I put the Fab Four’s name in quotes because only John and Paul played on the recording). It referred to the Acorn Peace effort that Yoko Ono and husband John Lennon made in 1969.
Though John’s been gone from us for nearly 29 years, Yoko will recreate the promotion to celebrate its 40th anniversary.

She’ll send acorns to 123 world leaders – including President Obama – urging them to strive for world peace. Each world leader will receive two acorns in a transparent box with the inscription “Acorn Peace by John And Yoko, Spring 2009″.

Here’s how it all started:
“On 15 June 1968, John Lennon and Yoko Ono planted two acorns for peace at Coventry Cathedral. The acorns were planted in east and westerly positions, symbolizing the meeting of the couple and the union of their two cultures. This was the first of many peace events that the couple would initiate throughout their lives. They followed the planting by sending acorns to world leaders in the hope that they would plant oak trees in their gardens”.

If there’s anything that the couple taught us, it’s that peace begets peace. In other words, you can fight, you can scream, in the hope that it accomplished your dream; but the only way to make them understand is to reach out and take them by the hand.
For the peace is there for all of us to share; it’s fragile and it’s agile and too delicate to scare. So put away your guns and killing other’s loved ones … and reach out your unarmed hand … in love … in understanding … in peace*.

From A Peace-meal Song, composed and performed by this writer in 1968.

iPhone, YOURphone

Seems like everybody’s catching the “iPhone” craze these days — and for good reason: They’re powerful, accessible, web-compatible and portable!
But, if you have one, you know that accessories are just important as the phone itself. Now, while most areas have stores that sell those, you know it can (a) take forever to get a salesperson that’ll help you, (b) cost you a bundle for whatever you’re buying, and (c) offer no guarantee that it’s gonna work on your phone!
Want a better way to shop for those accessories … and at a more wallet-smiling price? It’s simple:
Just click this link that’ll take you to the best, most reliable and affordable in iphone accessories.
You’ll be glad you made the choice, believe me!

Now … all that bein’ said, I’ll see ya on the flip side …

Hey … y’all still with me out there?!?! Good! Now, how about givin’ me a hand in openin’ this vault again, huh?? Got some more rockin’ trivia for ya:

• ABBEY ROAD is known as the last music ever recorded by The Beatles, at least as a foursome. But what you didn’t know is that the last trax of side 2 were laid to reflect their final bow, as such. After Carry That Weight (a reference to the fact that all four would be stereotyped as a Beatle for years to come), they kick in with some serious garage-style rock in a guitar-driven tuned called Love You. That was to “go out with a bang,” as they came into the rock world. Following that, the harmonic The End were their parting words … ending in a beautiful crescendo. And that was it for any more new stuff from The Beatles. They were done. Now, if you’ll notice, the rest between that and the last track was a split-second longer than normal; that signified the transition — and then, with one electric chord cementing that, it breaks into Paul’s solo ditty, Her Majesty. That was John, George and Ringo’s way of saying, “Okay … if HE wants to keep going, it’s just HIS now.” It was cut short because … well, that’s all the time they had on the LP.
• THIS DIAMOND RING, the first hit by Gary Lewis and The Playboys, actually had none of the group playing on it! And Gary’s vocals were heavily backed by the overdubs of Ron Hicklin (incidentally, Al Kooper — who went on to form Blood, Sweat and Tears — wrote the song … and wasn’t happy with the way the Playboys’ version sounded).
• TORN BETWEEN TWO LOVERS, by Mary McGregor, was actually recorded in an empty bathroom, because McGregor liked the natural echo!
• A reader once sent me a RelicMail asking what the most expensive record would be. Well, it belongs to Paul McCartney and is worth around $180,000! The song is That’ll Be The Day and was recorded in 1958 by a group called The Quarrymen, with Paul, John, George, Colin Hanton and John Duff Lowe.
• Tommy James’ hit, MONY, MONY, was actually named so thanks to the blinking initials on the Mutual of New York Insurance building! (Oh … the cover for Tommy James and the Shondells’ album, It’s Only Love, was the first pro photo shoot for Paul McCartney’s wife, Linda Eastman).
• If you have an old 45 of The Beatles’ TICKET TO RIDE, check under the title and see if it has the fine print that says “From the United Artists Release Eight Arms To Hold You”. That was the original title of the movie Help!

REACH FOR THE CEILING!

As springtime progresses and the oh-so-hot summertime approaches, we all start lookin’ to stay cool, right?  Now, many of us have ceiling fans in our houses or apartments that not only help provide the relief we’re lookin’ for but also look great in our living rooms, bedrooms, etc.
Sometimes, though, the ones that come with our residence doesn’t exactly fit our decor or blend in with the ambience we want.
Now, we can go shopping for new ones, but, more often than not, we’re faced with limited selections, higher prices, salesmen that are hard to find and lonnng lines at the checkout.
Hey … why not take a better route and click the link I’m about to share with you?  Not only will you find the greatest selection of ceiling fans anywhere, but at prices anyone can afford!  Not only that, but you’ll also have free shipping on certain orders over $75.00, no sales tax if you live outside New York, and fast delivery! And ordering is a snap … and guaranteed secure!
So why wait?  To find the best in ceiling fans online, just click that link … and get ready to enjoy a comfortable summer!

And, with that, I think it’s time to end this edition. Until next time, remember: Keep your eyes on the skies, your feet on the ground, your heart with the music … and I’ll see ya on the flip side.

I was going over a number of old charts the other day when I found a really amazing little list: It was of all the banned records that were trashed by radio stations over the years.
Now, if you remember we’re at the top-end of the 09, and these vinyls seem tame to what the FM dial’s regularly playing these days! Here … let me give ya some examples. Ready to laugh? Here we go:

Satisfaction — allegedly, sexually suggestive lyrics.
Double Shot of My Baby’s Love — The Swinging Medallions had to re-record it. The original was supposedly dirty!
Eve of Destruction – too “doomsdayish”.
How Would You Feel? — Hendrix’s hit was banned in many areas because it told of … the plight of African-Americans!
Gloria – (the Them version) too suggestive. The Shadows of Knight’s cover changed “she comes to my room just about midnight” to “she comes down here …”
Rhapsody In The Rain – too sexual.
A Day In The Life – stations thought The Beatles’ lyrics “I’d love to turn you on” were about drug use.

One novelty song that was banned from most airwaves during the late ’60s was Jerry Samuels’ They’re Coming To Take Me Away, Ha-Haaaa! (aka the story of my last marriage). Recorded under the name Napoleon XIV, Samuels added a twist to the product by recording the same song on the flip side of the record – backward!
Anyway, many record execs thought it was demeaning to patients with mental disorders.

Brown-Eyed Girl was banned in some markets because the original dealt with teenaged pregnancy. So Van Morrison recorded an alternate version to please the stations.
Listen to this: In El Paso, a radio station stopped playing all records by Bob Dylan because … they couldn’t understand his lyrics! (hey … what’s so hard about understanding peace??)
Pictures of Lily by The Who was banned in most markets because execs said it referred to … er, “self-stimulation”? Funny … years later, those same execs freely played Imaginary Lover by the Atlanta Rhythm Section. What’s the diff?

Record mogul Mike Curb, who was president MGM records in 1970, cancelled the recording contracts of 18 of the label’s acts because he believed they promoted hard drugs in their songs. Among them: Steve Lawrence and Eydie Gorme! (sure … and I guess his hit, Don’t Be Afraid, Little Darlin’, was a tempting lure into the psychedelic world! L-O-L!!)
In the aftermath of the Kent State shootings in 1970, the Ohio governor banned Crosby, Stills, Nash and Young’s Ohio from being played. He was afraid it’d cause more violence (ummm … wasn’t it … the National … Guard … that brought on the shootings?).

Now, I’ll have more of these in another post. Until then, lemme ask you something: Why, after all the crazy censorship of the late ’60s and early ’70s, did the execs not say anything My Ding-A-Ling? (no … I meant the song! Chuck Berry recorded it!)
Wear My Ring (Around Your Neck) — Elvis’ song was panned and banned by many Catholics because — it promoted “going steady”!
D. O. A. Bloodrock’s 1971 (and only) hit was banned almost across-the-board, because it not only described the death of a teenaged girl in a crash (plane?), but, due to its music and tempo, gave many people nightmares! It was considered “too gory” for radio (however, Last Kiss was alright, right?).

ROCK MUSIC The BBC banned the whole genre from its airwaves until 1966 (partly. 1971, fully). Part of the reason: Promoters Jack Good and Larry Parnes promoted a stable of performers whose stage names were based on their … ahem! … sexual performance!
BAD BOY The Beatles’ rocker (from Beatles ‘65 here in the States) was banned from AOR stations because it promoted “juvenile delinquency.”
As I said, we’ll continue this in another post soon. But, for now …

DIDJA KNOW?

As you know, the great Beatles classic, I Am The Walrus (which is copied and performed to perfection these days by Will Lee’s group, The Fab Faux), has lyrics in it that are pretty much … well, weird! It’s hard to figure out what they mean.
Well, that’s exactly what John Lennon wanted! He knew that so many fans were beginning to look for hidden meanings (for example, about Paul’s supposed “death”, drug references, etc.) that he purposely scrambled the lyrics, using the first words and idea-flights that came to mind!
And on Strawberry Fields Forever, you’re actually hearing two versions of the song in one! Producer George Martin took both takes of the song (one a tiny bit faster and at a different tempo) and mixed them together!

HAVE YOU BEEN FRAMED?

If you’ve ever wanted a really good night’s sleep (and, c’mon … who hasn’t?), then you know how important a good, sturdy bed frame is.
Now, they can be a little pricey — that is, unless ya click on the link you’re about to see. When you do, you’ll find a site that not only has the sturdiest and most practical frames in all sizes, but even those with risers, low profiles — even the classic headboard/footboard models.
And you’ll find wallet-friendly prices as well!
So, for that good night’s sleep you’ve been wanting, just click on this link for the best, most affordable quality bed frames you’d ever dream of!

Well, that’s it for now … but stay tuned for more in less than 24! Until next time,
keep your eyes on the skies, your feet on the ground, your heart with the music
… and I’ll see ya on the flip side …

Man, I am totally B-Side myself about my mates,  The Fore’s explosion onto i-net and terra radio.  Seems like everybody wants their new CD and …
(ummm … waitaminnit. B-side myself?? That’d mean there’d be two of me. WHOA! Scary thought, America! Ummm … let’s move on)

But talkin’ about “B” sides brings back mems of some of rock’s coolest sounds, unplayed because so many jocks were too lazy to flip the vinyl over and give a listen!  It’s sad (snif!) that these poor, underfed li’l orphans went unnoticed, scratchin’ at the back door, shiverin’ from the drenchin’ rain that was rock (WOW! I could be a writer someday!!).

These cats missed songs like Ben Franklin’s Almanac, which was the flip side of the Cryan Shames’ awesome cover of Sugar and Spice. It had a heavy beat for the time, and the lyrics, while simple (”Inside out, how I feel, far and near, can’t be real”), would stick in your mind for centuries.
Another group had a one-hit charter with a song that was written to motivate its members. “We Ain’t Got Nothin’ Yet” by the Blues Magoos was backed with “Gotta Get Away”, which was a musical strike for personal freedom.

Natch, we had some novelty flippers as well. Consider Napoleon XIV’s They’re Coming To Take Me Away, Ha-Haaaa! – played backward on side 2. Now, remember when the buzz was that reverse-playing hid messages from Satan? (Hell … my ex never even made a record!) Wonder what Jerry Samuels (aka XIV) had to say on his “B” side?

A few extraquickers and mentions: One of the best harmonicas in an early rocker belonged to Ol’ Sol, the flip side of the DC5’s Everybody Knows.
But if you just friggin’ wanna feel totally good, ya just gotta flip Let It Be over and get into You Know My Name, Look Up The Number (GOD, I love WordPress’s italic button!).

And the B-side of Help! — a down-and-dirty rocker called I’m Down, was actually cleaned up before bein’ released here in the states.  In Jolly Olde, Paul was told “keep your hands to yourself.” Here, he’s hadta keep his “hearts” to himself.
Weird censorship back then, huh?
Hey, listen … what were some of your favorite “B” sides? Lemme know, and I’ll list ‘em on a future post, okay?

Now …(as I’ve been known to thrown these in every once-in-awhile), it’s QUIZTIME: The music of Credence Clearwater Revival has a staying power better than a fresh application of Crazy Glue on onionskin paper!  Of their hits, Lookin’ Out My Back Door had a guitar solo influenced by a national anthem.  (Incidentally, Fogerty built the song’s tune around it.) Which country’s was it?

Well, that’s it from this side of the trax. But stay tuned … there’s gonna be more in about 24!  So, until then, remember to

keep your eyes on the skies, your feet on the ground, your heart with the music … and I’ll see ya on the  the flip side!

This year marks the 40th anniversary of John Lennon and Yoko Ono’s Bed-in , which was in Montréal, Quebec, Canada from May 26 to June 2, 1969. It took place at The Fairmont Queen Elizabeth Hotel and became legendary for its (at the time) unusual message of peace.

Now, to honor the event, the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts, in collaboration with Yoko Ono, will have an exhibition called IMAGINE: JOHN & YOKO’s PACIFIST ANTHEM which will run from April 2 to June 21, 2009. Oh … and it’s free to the public.
It’ll follow the artistic and musical dialog that occurred then by and between Beatle John Lennon and his wife, Yoko.

The bed-in instantly (and obviously!) got worldwide media attention; they spoke to over 150 journalists each day, and (in the US alone) 350 radio stations carried reports on the happening, which was meant for everyone around the world already protesting against the war in Vietnam.

The highlight of this unique event was Lennon’s composition of Give Peace A Chance on June 1st. He wrote the song on the spur of the moment and made the suite into a recording studio under the direction of André Perry. Some 50 people contributed to the recording of the song, which was immediately broadcast worldwide. Celebrities included Tommy Smothers, Dr Timothy Leary and Petula Clark.

According to the ticker: Through the presentation of various documents, works of arts, records, sound reels and photographs, the exhibition will raise awareness of the historical and political context of 1969 which formed the backdrop to the Bed-In and will revive the thinking John Lennon and Yoko Ono and their urgent message for peace.

WHERE TO STAY

To mark the 40th anniversary The Fairmont Queen Elizabeth hotel invites guests to relive the legend and experience their own bed-in through the IMAGINE PACKAGE.

The package includes one night accommodation; One CD featuring Give Peace a Chance; breakfast in bed for two or buffet breakfast in Le Montréalais restaurant and a copy of the lyrics of Give Peace a Chance. This package is available from March 1 to June 21, 2009, subject to availability. Rates start from $199 per night, based on double occupancy, in a Fairmont room,
Or (now get this:) for $599 per night, based on double occupancy, you can stay in the actual John Lennon and Yoko Ono Suite (#1742) where the bed-in took place.
For more information visit: The Faimont Hotel.

To make a reservation in the Lennon Suite, please call the hotel directly at 514-861-3511.

So, right now, I’m gonna Give Sleep A Chance for about 360 minutes … but stay tuned: I’ll have more coming up in about 24! Until then …
see ya on the flip side!

He was the man who was responsible for photographing some of the most famous faces in rock …

In fact, Harry Hammond, who died on February 4, was called the father of pop photography.

His archive – including shots of virtually every American musician who crossed the Atlantic in the 1950s, as well as the home-grown stars of the era – was significant enough to be purchased by the Victoria & Albert Museum in the 1980s and is to be the subject of an exhibition there later this year.

The list of those he photographed over the rock years, on stage and in television studios, includes the cream of American rockers – Bill Haley, Buddy Holly, Little Richard, the Everly Brothers – as well as the initial British response to the new rock revolution: Lonnie Donegan, Tommy Steele, Billy Fury and Adam Faith.

“Today’s paparazzi seem intent to present their subjects in the worst possible light,” Cliff Richard commented in 2008. “In the days of Harry Hammond, photographers only wanted to show the best of you. I guess that’s why it was always such a pleasure to have Harry around.”

Hammond’s reputation went before him: a photo session with him came to be seen as a mark of success, a recognition that the subject had made the grade. “It was great,” remembered Alvin Stardust. “We knew who Harry was because he’d taken the pictures of the people we grew up listening to.”

Initially, he had the field virtually to himself. By the 1960s — after decades of photo shoots with some of the world’s music and movie stars  — he begantaking pictures of the Beatles and the Rolling Stones. But things were changing: “I’d seen it all: jazz, swing, pop, R&B, bossa nova, doo-wop and, finally, Britain’s acceptance of rock and roll. With the arrival of the Beatles, and finding that there were now at least 20 photographers at every concert, I decided to slow down.”

In retirement Hammond moved into management, drawing on his extensive contacts book to steer the careers of emerging young bands, including The Overlanders, whose cover of the Beatles’ Michelle reached Number 1 in the charts.

He spent his last years at Leamington Spa, and is survived by his wife and daughter.

Listen … before we go on with this particular post, remember that it’s the 50th anniversary of the plane crash that took Buddy Holly, Richie Valens and The Big Bopper from us. To read more about it, click here.

Now, if you’re lookin’ for some prime office space, ya might wanna check out a cool location in London. But it’s not any building …

Y’see, the five-story structure (located at 3 Savile Row, in case you wanna take a look-see) is where The Beatles headquartered their Apple Corps in the late ’60s. In fact, the band bought it for an easy £500,000.
And on January 30, 1969, John Lennon, Paul McCartney, George Harrison and Ringo Starr played a very famous performance on its rooftop! They’d been recording their final album, Let It Be, in the basement studio, before staging their first live performance for nearly three years (it was also their absolute last).

But it has even more history: It was constructed in 1735, and was once bought by Lord Horatio Nelson for his mistress Lady Hamilton.
Owners Kier Property plan to sell it for office space but they believe the Beatles connection will send the value up quite a bit.

Leigh Thomas, Kier’s associate director, said: “It’s being marketed internationally. If someone wants a bit of heritage with a bit of history of the band, then this is the place. I still get goose bumps in here. It’s the world’s biggest piece of memorabilia!”

HERE’S THE GIG THAT MADE THAT ROOFTOP FAMOUS:

So that’s it for now … but stay tuned: there’s more in 24!
‘Til then …
see ya on the flip side …

It was the culmination of what millions strived for in the 1960s and ’70s.
It was the evidence of youth, vigor … and, most importantly, that hope is still alive in this country!

The inauguration of Barack Obama as 44th President of the United States was nothing less than a thing of pure beauty and wonder!

Over the years, countless singers and bands — especially in soul, rhythm-and-blues and rock — have expressed, through song and interviews, the need for racial and generational equality. From James Brown and Stevie Wonder to John Lennon and Bruce Springsteen — with a generous helping of folk singers — the word had gone out that we must make this happen!

And, now, we have made that first, tremendous step toward its fruition.

The First Lady — of Soul — was there (and, say what you will about Aretha Franklin, but that lady can still stir the spirit as well as she did 40 years ago!) with her rendition of the anthem, My Country (’Tis of Thee).
Legends like Stevie Wonder, who got the house (and the Obamas) rockin’ on Sunday’s We Are One concert, could only say, “WOW!”
All around the nation, people were feeling the tremendous excitement and electricity …

At the first inaugural ball, the lovely Beyoncé sang for Barack and Michelle’s first dance as President and First Lady. As she reprised her song from “Cadillac Records” — the Etta James’ classic, At Last – tears started to flow from her and others at the ball.
Because, at last, the miracle had happened. We had witnessed history being made. Dreams can come true!

And, through the entire crowd at the Capitol mall, at home in front of their TVs, or in schools and places that provided wide-screen viewing, there was a presence being felt; that of a man who didn’t live to see the result of his tireless efforts; that of a man whose birthday we celebrated just the day before:

Dr. Martin Luther King

They come from London and Liverpool, joining together to make a sound so exciting that thousands of fans throughout Britain, Europe, Canada, South America, Australia and the United States are flocking to CD Baby, Indiestore, Amazon and other outlets for this indie CD.

Run and Hide — the second album by the megapop band The Fore — is a mixture of raw, driving rock-and-roll sprinkled with some of the most beautiful ballads in the musical universe!

Where their debut album Black and White, took us to a world of pure rock excitement, this one explores that world with a musical progression tha’s gonna put your entire system into overdrive!  And, through it all, you’ve still got the inimitable style that the band is famous fore!

TRACKLIST FROM RUN AND HIDE (with notes)

• FORGIVE AND FORGET — This upbeat rocker has a vocal hook that I dare ya to try and get outta yer head!
• WE WERE MEANT TO BE — Like your music flavored with a bit of the Motown dance sound of the early ’60s?  You’ve got it, mixed with some solid, Bo Diddley-style rock in the bridge.
• HAVE ME BACK AGAIN — A solid mover with the lads’ signature harmony sprinkled liberally throughout!
• SEND MY LOVE TO YOU — Sung by drummer Simon Thompson, this folk-rocker is already a fave among some of our servicemen overseas!  Great arrangement and strong acoustic rhythm adds to the beauty of this ballad.
• YOU’VE GOT TO CHOOSE — Sometimes, if a guy’s got a rival for his girl’s heart, he’s gotta confront her about the situation; that’s what this song’s all about.  A strong piano helps build this melodic mover (and wait’ll ya hear the chorus!).
• RUN AND HIDE — This thriller starts with a sharp attack and pointed lyrics, warning the cheating girl to run and hide. The bridge builds tremendous suspense, as does the last of the track (with Si and Matt creating a dark, chase-type backing that would sound great on a spy flick!
• RUMOURS AND LIES — It’s every teenaged boy’s plea to his girl:  Don’t listen to the rumours and lies that might “take your love away”.  This slower number has a great calypso-style rhythm and lyrics that aim straight for the heart.
• THAT’S A LIE — Imagine the ultimate rock song, with Everly-style harmony, rockabilly-style guitar, great progressive arrangement and upbeat tempo.  That’s whatcha got here! (Oh, yeah … there’s a hook in the chorus that’s innovative: As Matt and Spencer sing “then I’ll put you down”, the tempo slows in sync with the words — then builds back up at the words “I’m tellin’ you now”.)
• IT’S YOU GIRL — Merseybeat at its finest!  Fantastic harmony with a great guitar bridge!
• LAZY DAY — A breezy, summertime song with a great hook and warm, inventive vocals.  Again, a strong piano only adds to a song that’s as refreshing as iced tea on a hot July day!
• LEAVE ME ALONE — Have you ever had someone break up with you, just to find them calling or trying to get you back?  That’s the premise of this song.  In the chorus, you can feel Spencer confronting his ex while feeling the heartache of having to speak with her again.
• NO OTHER LOVE — A slower, heartfelt, harmonic melody with minimal instruments and great lyrics.
• TELL YOUR FRIEND — A throwback to the Invasion band’s Hamburg/Star Club days, this is an amazing, raw, in-your-face rocker, with the Chuck Berry 4/4 rhythm, clappers and all!  And wait’ll you hear Matt’s guitar solo!
• EMMA — It starts darkly with a quasi-flamenco beat, and when Spencer gets to the mic and starts singing to “Emma” about her leaving, you can actually feel his pain!  Coupled with Si’s drum fill and Matt’s stirring acoustic 12-string, it’s one amazing song!!
• AIN’T THAT JUST FINE — An upbeat song built strongly around the rhythm, it deals with the singer’s happy-go-lucky independence.  Lyrics like, “Don’t walk like a rich man, but I got all that I need” and “I’m not the kind of guy to settle down” flavour a tune that’s great to have in yer car’s CD player as you’re hittin’ the open road!

All told, I’ve gotta give this CD an EAGLE-SIZED, five-star “thumbs up” rating! Now, I’ve been in the biz for over 30 years, and this album, while released independently, is one of the best I’ve heard in years! If I were you, I’d order “Run and Hide” today, and start rockin’ with some serious inner energy tomorrow!!

One more word:  Though this album’s only been out for about a month, it’s already gettin’ some great airplay across terra firma, and CDs/tracks are selling at a fantastic rate … and it’s all due to the band, their managers, and yours truly promoting them; no A&Rs, no high-end record labels or fancy ads!

And if that doesn’t tell ya how good the CD is, nothing will!

Okay … what’s up with the new dude who’s taken over this sacred site?
Well, it’s like this: I’ve been a rock raver, researcher and writer since … since … well, for a lonnnnng time (hmph … ain’t gonna get my age outta me …), and the site was available.
Sooooo, ya put 1 + 1 together, whaddya got?? Uh-huh …
But, now, you’re gonna get more insider info, updates, interviews and vids for yer money (eh? Oh … right … it’s free. Heh-heh …). So, with that in mind, let’s make happen:

Now, while I’m not gonna officially debut this rascal until 12 January, lemme give ya a taste of the new stuff (careful … don’t “chug” it! It has kinduva kick to it …):
Now, one thing ya gotta know is that, while I’m at the mercy of the Mersey Beat, I’m also one devoted Metallicat! And if ya haven’t caught Hetfield and Co.’s new CD, Death Magnetic, you’re missin’ one of the greatest CD’s ever to appear on terra firma in 2008! Not only is it hard-rockin’ metal at its best (and nobody … but nobody … can growl like James! Only one who could’ve matched him was the late Mike Smith), but it’s got some dynamite tracks that’ll have you playin’ that CD again and again ’til it’s warped!
Oh … by the way: DIDJA HEAR where Lars (Ulrich. The drummer! Are you really a rock fan??) has offered to put his sticks to use with Deep Purple MIV? They’ve got everybody in the band but Ian (yep … even Richie Blackmore has agreed), but he’s still doin’ the new version of DP. So, since they’re in need of a new skin-pounder, along comes Lars offerin’ his services for a one-shot deal, if nothing else. Stay tuned for more on this story …

LED ZEP TO TOUR … AND DISC!
Yep … the Band that Made Rock Famous (post-Beatles, pre-Fore) is gettin’ it back together to tour and record once again …
ummm … without Robert Plant!
Seems the legendary frontman for Led Zeppelin thinks he’s too “old” to rock now, so he’ll be sittin’ out the lineup this time! That means Jimmy Page, John Paul Jones and (in honour of his dad, original LZ’er, Bonzo) Jason Bonham are lookin’ for a replacement for Plant!
More news? Gotcha: They might not even call themselves “Led Zeppelin” anymore (SACRILEGE!!!!!) and go with a new moniker instead.
Whatever the case, watch this space for more on the LZ race back to the stage (and, undoubtedly, charts) …

And there ya have it: Guess I sorta/kinda debuted it anyway, huh? Well, there’s gonna be more in 24, so stay tuned, okay?
And I’ll see ya on the flip side!