May 24, 2013
Bob Dylan turns 72 today. Bob has released 35 studio albums, 12 live albums and 24 compilations since 1962, and it was he alone that introduced lyrics that actually meant something to pop music.
Guitarist Rich Robinson of The Black Crowes is 44.
On this day in 1963, legendary blues slide guitarist Elmore James died in Chicago of a heart attack at the age of 45.
On this day in 1965, John Lennon published his second volume of prose, "A Spaniard in the Works."
On this day in 1969, The Beatles' "Get Back" started a five-week run at #1 on the U.S. singles chart. It was their 17th U.S. #1 hit!
On this day in 1969, The Who released their landmark "Tommy" album in the States. It eventually topped out at #4 while selling over two million copies.
On this day in 1970, founding member/guitar wizard Peter Green quit Fleetwood Mac to become obscure.
On this day in 1974, American jazz great Duke Ellington died in New York from cancer at the age of 75.
On this day in 1979, fans buying tickets to a Genesis benefit show at the Roxy were shocked to find the band members manning the box office.
On this day in 1980, Genesis' "Misunderstanding" began a climb to #14 on the charts, making it their most successful single to date. Meanwhile, Journey's "Walks Like A Lady" was on its way to #32 and Van Halen's "And The Cradle Will Rock" was headed to #55.
On this day in 1986, two very personal songs, Bob Seger's "Like A Rock" and Sammy Hagar/Van Halen's "Dreams," both entered the charts. "Dreams" eventually topped out at #22 as "Like A Rock" reached #12.
On this day in 1991, vocalist Gene Clark of The Byrds died of a heart attack in his Sherman Oaks home at the age of 46.
This Sunday night at 8pm on 100.3 The Sound of Los Angeles, OFF THE RECORD with Joe Benson will feature the music of Fleetwood Mac as well as Joe's extensive conversations with Stevie Nicks, Mick Fleetwood and Lindsey Buckingham. Check out the promo!
It was Kin Hubbard who said: "There's no secret about success. Did you ever know a successful man who didn't tell you about it?"
It was Benjamin Franklin who said: "Most fools think that they are only ignorant."
It was Goodman Ace who said: "I keep reading between the lies."
Memorial Day
Time for a few thoughts on Memorial Day. The basic problem is that people increasingly take the holidays we celebrate throughout the year for granted, as nothing more than a day you don't have to go to work or school, and a gimmick for advertisers and merchandising. But the reality is that Memorial Day was established to honor all the men and women who have served, are currently serving, and those who have made the ultimate sacrifice in defending our country and our freedoms. It's also a day to pay tribute to the families whose loved ones died, or were taken captive and never returned. We thank them for shouldering this burden, and for giving us our future at the cost of their own. The idea is that this Monday, before you hit the malls, light up the barbecue or hit the road, STOP for a moment and reflect. Remember the heroes, those who came home and the ones who never made it, all of whom helped build and preserve the American dream.
