 January 21 - 31, 2007These are the scripts Joe Benson used on the air at 95.5 KLOS in Los Angeles. They all received final editing by Jan Benson, without whom the task would have been far too daunting. Remember to give credit where credit is due, and enjoy! January 21, 2007
On this date in 1966, George Harrison married Patti Boyd, with Paul McCartney serving as best man. The couple met while The Beatles were filming "A Hard Day's Night." (Patti played one of the schoolgirls in the train scene near the start of the film.) But the Harrison/Boyd union didn't last, and she eventually married George's pal Eric Clapton. On this day in 1967, The Rolling Stones' "Let's Spend The Night Together" entered the charts. On this date in 1978, the song "Point Of Know Return" by Kansas peaked at #28 on the charts. On this date in 1984, Yes hit #1 with the song "Owner of a Lonely Heart." On this date in 1988, U2 was named the biggest live attraction in the U.S., according to Pollstar magazine, the trade magazine for concert promoters.  This Sunday night at 9 on 95.5 KLOS, OFF THE RECORD with Joe Benson will feature the music of and conversation with Tom Petty. 
Stevie Will PlayIt's official! Stevie Nicks will participate in Super Bowl 41, performing as part of the pre-game festivities leading up to the football championship. Her appearance is expected to be included in the CBS television coverage of the event from Miami on February 4th. In addition, the Fleetwood Mac singer has also booked a four-night engagement at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas on March 20th, 21st, 23rd and 24th. Oh That Wacky NugeHours after Texas Governor Rick Perry kicked off his second full term in office, Ted Nugent helped him celebrate at a black-tie gala, but not all the attendees were pleased. Using machine guns as props, the Nuge appeared onstage as the final act of the inaugural ball wearing a cutoff T-shirt emblazoned with the Confederate flag and shouting offensive remarks about non-English speakers. The clothing choice was considered tasteless by some, since Gov. Perry's theme was tolerance. Nugent couldn't be reached for comment because he was hunting animals of one sort or another — non-English speaking animals, we assume. Macca Writes Some BluesWord from London is that Paul McCartney is recording material inspired by his failed marriage. While the former Beatle is always writing songs, usually about what's happening in his life, this batch of songs is reportedly "deeply personal" with "direct references to his recent difficulties" One of Macca's new tunes is said to have been penned specifically for Beatrice, his three-year-old daughter with his estranged wife, Heather Mills. The proposed album — targeted for release next year — will be Paulie's follow-up to his critically acclaimed 2005 release, "Chaos And Creation In The Backyard." Let's just hope he doesn't call it "Bitter And Morose In The Backyard." Soto Rocks For The KidsOn a break from his new job of fronting Journey, Jeff Scott Soto and his solo band — guitarist Howie Simon, bassist Gary Schutt and drummer Dave Dzialak — will be performing at Lofflers (8901 Katella Boulevard) Saturday night for a bitchin' NAMM show event. This is the latest installment of the "Fret Fest" that the Fender Guitars Custom shop puts on every year to benefit Kids Rock Free, a very cool children's music education program in Corona. For more information, go here. 
Food for Thought
How are a Texas Tornado and a Tennessee Divorce the same? King Of The Dogs
No, it's not another gratuitous Jim Ladd mention. The American Kennel Club says that the Labrador retriever is the most popular dog in the U.S., based on a list of more than 900,000 registered dogs that included 153 different breeds. Here's the Top 10 dogs nationwide: January 22, 2007
Sam Cooke, one of the greatest voices of the 20th century, would have been 76.
On this day in 1966, "Day Tripper" by The Beatles peaked at #5 on the charts. On this day in 1969, The Beatles began recording what became their "Let It Be" album. Billy Preston, who was hanging out in the lobby getting high, was invited by George Harrison to join in. Thus, Billy became the first sideman credited on a Beatles record. Those were the days! On this day in 1977, "Somebody To Love" by Queen peaked at #13 on the U.S. singles chart. On this day in 1983, the song "Rock The Casbah" by The Clash peaked at #8 on the chart.
Saving Paulie's PavilionPaul McCartney has been allowed to keep his "wildlife watching" pavilion on the grounds of his East Sussex home, despite blatantly breaking strict planning permission laws. After a full year of bickering — which saw Sir Paulie offer to demolish a three-bedroom detached house and two agricultural barns in return for being allowed to keep the lodge and pavilion — East Sussex officials finally gave their consent for the hut to remain standing provided the $1.9 million lodge is demolished by June. The structure was built without a permit three years ago and may have been used as a hideaway by the former Beatle's estranged wife, Heather Mills. Woodlands Farm, where Macca built the cabin, has been his family home for over 25 years. Mellencamp Does Vanity Fair/M&BSure Demi Moore is on the cover, but John Mellencamp's publicity people really scored when they got him a nice big layout in the February issue of Vanity Fair! In his spread, John talks about his new record, "Freedom Road," and what he's been up to the past few years (working, dammit!!). Vanity Fair is on newsstands now and Mellencamp will be on KLOS' Mark & Brian show Wednesday morning. U2's WarningU2 has posted this warning to fans on their U2.com web site: "Some fans have been in touch to let us know of adverts appearing in the press offering tickets for U2 shows in London and Paris this year. Take it from us, these adverts are a scam — there are no live plans for this year. Do not buy tickets for U2 shows unless you've read it here first." Right so! Brit R&R Fantasy CampBad Company's Simon Kirke, Procol Harum's Gary Brooker and Cream's Jack Bruce are among the musicians who will participate in the first English edition of Rock & Roll Fantasy Camp. The 5-day event will take place in London with an optional sixth day in Liverpool. Word is that a member of The Rolling Stones (Woodie!) and The Who's Roger Daltrey may also drop by the camp, if scheduling (or budgeting) allows. How About An Ice Cold JimiIn a first for the Hendrix estate, the Beverage Concepts company has bought the exclusive rights to use Jimi Hendrix's name and image to promote their products. To that end, the Liquid Experience range of drinks will launch in April with an event at the Experience Music Project in Seattle. Meanwhile, IK Multimedia — a computer-software company — has unveiled the AmpliTube 2 Jimi Hendrix Edition software that recreates the guitar amp and effects sounds used by the late guitar god. You have to admit that commercial tie-in isn't as difficult to swallow as the Liquid Experience.
Quote Of The Day
It was Ogden Nash who said: Amazing Factoids
According to "Harper's Index": 2. 75% of us store our dollar bills in rigid order with singles leading up to higher denominations. 3. 90% of us believe in divine retribution, but only 10% believe in the 10 Commandments. 4. 58.4% of us have called in sick to work when we weren't. 5. 47% of us drink straight from the carton when no one else is looking. 6. The average American bra size today is 36C, whereas 10 years ago it was 34B. 7. 85% of American women wear the wrong bra size. 8. Four out of five of us sing in the car, though it's unknown how many actually sing in tune. January 23, 2007
Organist Danny Federeci of Springsteen's E Street band is 57.
On this day in 1971, Elton John's "Your Song" peaked at #8 on the charts just 53 weeks after he and lyricist Bernie Taupin began working together. On this day in 1977, Pink Floyd released their "Animals" album as they started their world tour. Not really masters of scheduling, those wacky Floydians! On this day in 1978, Chicago's guitarist Terry Kath blew his brains out playing Russian Roulette at the age of 31. At the time of his death, Chicago's song "Baby What A Big Surprise" was in the Top 10. On this day in 1982, Bob Seger's "Feel Like A Number" peaked at #48 while "Leather And Lace" by Stevie Nicks and Don Henley peaked at #6. On this day in 1990, Lynyrd Skynyrd guitarist Allen Collins died of pneumonia at the age of 37. He had been paralyzed from the waist down since crashing his car in 1986. On this day in 1997, Richard Berry, who wrote the classic "Louie Louie" and never saw a dime for it, died of an aneurysm at the age of 61 in South Central Los Angeles. On this day in 2005, the greatest talk show host ever, Johnny Carson, died of emphysema. A longtime smoker, Johnny was only 79.
New Rush In TownGuitarist Alex Lifeson says that Rush began mixing their new album in Los Angeles last week. They expect to wrap things up by the end of this month, and a release should come in late April or early May. A North American tour should start in mid-June, and there will be three or four sets of shows through the end of the year, with Europe and South America to follow. This will be the first album of new studio material from the Canadian trio since the release of "Vapor Trails" in 2002. Fresh Police Product (Sort Of)While we await the official announcement of their reunion tour, word is that two Police releases will be issued this year in celebration of the band's 30th anniversary. A DVD version of the trio's 1981 The Police Around The World video and a sequel to the group's Message In A Box multi-CD retrospective both will hit stores this Summer — perhaps a month or two before they play the Southland. Here Comes StevieAfter touring with Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers last year, now Stevie Nicks is going to get serious! Not only will she play a handful of concerts following her Super Bowl Pre-Game performance on February 4th in Miami, she'll do a four-night stand at Las Vegas' Caesars Palace from March 20th through 24th. Then later this Spring, the Fleetwood Mac singer will release a Greatest Hits compilation and launch a two or three month tour in May. Selling Cars & GuitarsWhile expensive vehicles were the main focus of the annual Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Auction last week in Scottsdale, Arizona, they also held the first Barrett-Jackson Rock On The Block auction at the same time. A 1917 piano once owned by John Lennon sold for $345,000, while a signed watercolor he painted as a child went for over $60,000. One of George Harrison's 12-string guitars brought in nearly $52,000, while the handwritten score for the song "While My Guitar Gently Weeps" sold for only $60,000. The Beatles weren't the only rockers represented in the sale. The 1940 Martin acoustic guitar that Bill Haley played on "Shake, Rattle, and Roll," "Rock Around the Clock," and "See You Later, Alligator" sold for $57,500 and one of Led Zeppelin guitarist Jimmy Page's Fender Stratocasters went for $11,500. Using Clapton To Sell BooksThe in-depth Strange Brew: Eric Clapton And The British Blues Boom 1965-1970 reference book will be released in March. In telling the story of the late Sixties British blues boom, the book not only focuses on Clapton (known as God in those days) and Cream, but also on Fleetwood Mac, The Rolling Stones, Manfred Mann, Delaney & Bonnie, Blind Faith and John Mayall. Written in a day-by-day format, the book contains photographs and memorabilia from the era. Sounds like a "must have" to me! Bono's Little BookA speech U2's Bono made at a White House conference in 2005 will be published as a book in April. The speech, "On The Move," called on Americans to take action against extreme poverty and AIDS in Africa. The book will feature striking photographs, many of which were taken by Bono during his first trip to Ethiopia in 1985. The book (which will only be available in North America) was designed by U2's long-time design team (Four5One Design), and all royalties from its sale will go to the ONE campaign (www.one.org). April 3rd is the release date, although you can pre-order your copy here.
Quote Of The DayIt was Aristotle who said: "Education is the best provision for old age." January 24, 2007
Neil Diamond is 66.
On this day in 1962, record store owner Brian Epstein signed on as the manager of The Beatles. He helped guide the Fab Four into becoming the most dominant band in the history of Rock & Roll — and they did it all without a signed contract. Brian Epstein and The Beatles worked with just a handshake agreement — those were special times! On this day in 1969, Jethro Tull's first U.S. performance was opening for Led Zeppelin at a show in New York City. On this day in 1970, "Evil Ways" by Santana entered the singles charts. On this day in 1976, KISS' "Rock and Roll All Nite (Live)" peaked at #12 on the singles chart. On this day in 1984, Apple Computer launched the Macintosh. It contained virtually unknown features, including simple icons and an odd little attachment called a mouse. Two years later, the first Uncle Joe's Record Guide was published. Eight years after that, unclejoe.com was hand-coded into existence. So much for free time! On this day in 2000, Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young played the first date of their reunion tour in Auburn Hills, Michigan. That show marked the first time the quartet had performed together in 25 years.
Even More Police RumorsThose darn Police reunion rumors just won't go away. The latest says the band will open this year's GRAMMY Awards telecast on February 11th. If true, that will be their first public performance since they were inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame on March 10th, 2003. Word in Europe says that the group has booked about 80 stadium shows for their reunion tour. If true, that is verrry aggressive! Stay tuned! Billy Does It TwiceWhen Billy Joel performs the National Anthem before the Indianapolis Colts/Chicago Bears game on February 4th in Miami, he will become the first to sing the "Star Spangled Banner" twice at the Super Bowl, having previously done so back in 1989. Billy's performance, as well as the game itself, will be broadcast on CBS. All Hail Bono (Again)U2 singer Bono will be honored with the Chairman's Award at the upcoming 38th Annual NAACP Image Awards. CNN anchor Soledad O'Brien will receive the President's Award and comic legend Bill Cosby will be inducted into the NAACP Image Awards Hall Of Fame. The Image Awards will air live from L.A. on March 2nd on FOX. Lindsey Does SundanceFleetwood Mac's Lindsey Buckingham is gigging at the Sundance Film Festival in Park City, Utah this evening as part of a four-night Where Music Meets Film acoustic showcase. Performances from the showcase will be featured in a one-hour WE network special that will air this Spring. Brits Hail The Who (Again)The Who received the Outstanding Achievement honor at the South Bank Awards in London Monday evening. The highbrow made-for-TV event recognizes British accomplishments in all the arts, including TV, film, theater, dance, comedy, literature as well as in opera, classical and pop music. Fortunately, when Roger Daltrey and Pete Townshend were presented with their prize, Pete was on good behavior and didn't slag anyone off. Hitting The (Foreign) RoadLook for Aerosmith to mount a massive world tour this year. Guitarist Joe Perry says, "We've played America enough for different reasons and we've stayed here, but it's time for playing in other parts of the world. We're an international band and we've played out there, and it's time to get back and go to a lot of places we haven't played in awhile." The band is currently working on a new studio album that they hope to release by the middle of this year — if they're not gallivanting around Third World countries. Raising Coin For PeterThe two venture capital trusts of the London-based Ingenious have made an investment of almost $4 million to support the North American release of Peter Gabriel's next solo album. This is part of a wider working relationship with Gabriel's company, Real World Limited. No word on when the album will see the light of day, or even what its title may be, but it sounds like Peter's got himself a deal!
Quote Of The DayIt was Oscar Wilde who said: "Youth is wasted upon the young."  The Biggest Roadster ShowThis Saturday, 11am - 1pm: Where else would you expect to find the KLOS Cool Patrol and an Uncle Joe Meet & Greet but in the middle of the 58th Annual Grand National Roadster Show! The huge extravaganza will feature over 700 of America's most spectacular, innovative and radical street rods, classic customs and motorcycles. Here's what last year's show looked like. GRAMMY GRAMMYThis Saturday night at 7 on 95.5 KLOS, the first two-hour installment of "A Look Back At The GRAMMYS" hosted by yer Uncle Joe Benson will feature interviews, acceptance speeches and stories from artists like The Beatles, Bob Seger, U2, Genesis, The Rolling Stones, Don Henley and many more. Two separate two-hour programs will air on stations around the U.S. at various times over the next two weeks. (The second installment will air in Southern California next Saturday evening at 7pm on KLOS.) For those outside of Southern California, check your local listings for air times. January 25, 2007
Guitarist Joe Strummer of The Clash would have been 55.
On this day in 1858, Mendelssohn's "The Wedding March" was performed for the first time at the wedding of Queen Victoria's daughter. On this day in 1969, Creedence Clearwater Revival released their classic song, "Proud Mary." Like Mendelssohn's "The Wedding March," "Proud Mary" has been played at virtually every wedding since. On this day in 1980, Paul McCartney was released from jail in Japan after serving nine days for possessing a half-pound of marijuana. Where did he go next? Why Amsterdam, of course! On this day in 1992, U2's song "Mysterious Ways" hit #9.
Van Halen ReduxYou can expect the announcement real soon — even before The Police reunion tour becomes official! Word is that David Lee Roth has signed/is about to sign on to participate in a 40-date Van Halen comeback tour this Summer. If they can seal the deal, this will be the first time Van Halen has hit the road with its original vocalist in over 20 years. However, the tour won't feature the band's four founding members. Bassist Michael Anthony, who has been working with second VH frontman Sammy Hagar, is no longer with the group. He's been replaced by guitarist Eddie Van Halen's 15-year-old son, Wolfgang. Of course, Van Halen will also be inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in March. The Van Halen brothers, Roth, Anthony and Hagar are all expected to appear at the induction ceremony in New York, but it increasingly sounds like they won't be performing. Where's Dr. Phil when you need him? Carlos GivesCarlos Santana and his wife Deborah demonstrated their community spirit yesterday at the grand opening of The Santana House, a residence built on the USC Medical Center grounds for the Los Angeles County's Violence Intervention Program. As you'd expect, the Santana House was named for the guitarist, who donated money to the project and helped raise awareness and funds for the cause. At the dedication ceremony, Santana said his support for the cause is just part of the cycle of giving and receiving. Carlos is currently taking this year off — except for the odd performance here and there as happened when the surviving members of the original Santana Band performed together in San Francisco two weeks ago. Sir Elty's PartyIf it isn't the biggest coolest annual Oscar party, it sure will be the best fundraiser. Sir Elton John and David Furnish will host the 15th Annual Elton John AIDS Foundation Academy Awards Viewing Party on February 25th at the Pacific Design Center. The event will be co-sponsored by Audi, Chopard and Vh1. Right so! Launching Heaven And HellAs expected, the new band Heaven And Hell, which features the early Eighties Black Sabbath line-up, have confirmed the first dates for their upcoming world tour. Vocalist Ronnie James Dio (who replaced Ozzy Osbourne in Sabbath in 1979), Sabbath guitarist Tony Iommi and bassist Geezer Butler and veteran drummer Vinny Appice will play 11 Canadian shows before heading stateside for a March 30th concert in New York. The "Black Sabbath: The Dio Years" compilation will be released on April 3rd as the still-to-be-announced U.S. leg of the tour gets underway. Tibet House BenefitNo David Bowie this year, but Lou Reed, Ray Davies of The Kinks, Patti Smith and Blondie's Debbie Harry have all signed on for the 17th Annual Tibet House benefit on February 26th at New York's Carnegie Hall. Tibet House is dedicated to the proposition that the wisdom and arts of all human civilizations vitally enrich the emerging global culture and its many cultural and educational programs. Proceeds will benefit the Tibetan Community of New York and New Jersey, Farm Aid and the Karin Berg Fund for the Myositis Support Group. John Delays His TourJohn Mellencamp's new album "Freedom's Road" came out two days ago, but don't look for him to tour until Fall. John says, "I want to put together something called the "Freedom's Roadshow"... and make it more like, not a minstrel show but, I guess, a festival is a good word for it." And even though the tour hasn't been set-up, fans who buy a copy of "Freedom's Road" at Target will receive a digital code that will give them access to pre-sales for the tour.
Quote Of The DayIt was John Lennon who said: "Life is what happens while you are making other plans." January 26, 2007
Acting God Paul Newman is 82.
On this day in 1970, John Lennon wrote and recorded "Instant Karma." On this day in 1977, Peter Green, one of Fleetwood Mac's founding guitarists, was committed to an English mental home after he fired a pistol at a messenger trying to deliver a check for his Fleetwood Mac royalties. On this day in 1997, ZZ Top, James Brown and the Blues Brothers performed during the Super Bowl XXXI halftime show. It was just as scary as it sounds. On this day in 2003, Billy Joel was hospitalized for several hours after crashing his car into a tree in Sag Harbor, New York. He was released early the next morning. This Sunday night at 9 on 95.5 KLOS, OFF THE RECORD with Joe Benson will feature the music of Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young, as well as more of Joe's conversation with Graham Nash.
Van Halen Update #933With all of the information leaks coming from the Van Halen camp, it looks like the boys can save some money by canceling the still-to-be-announced press event for the DLR/VH reunion! Folks are saying that the 40-date tour will start in Vegas or North Carolina in early May, and hit the Southland for a couple of dates in June. Stay tuned! Police Reunion Update #647Word is that The Police will rehearse for their upcoming reunion tour at Lions Gate Studios in Vancouver. Details of the Summer tour, the band's first in over 20 years, will be announced next month. Of course the legendary trio is also "strongly rumored" to be performing in the opening segment of the GRAMMY telecast on February 11th from the Staples Center. But before The Police can get busy, Sting will do a three-week European tour in support of his lute album, "Songs From the Labyrinth." That outing will run from February 18th through March 12th, giving drummer Stewart Copeland and guitarist Andy Summers time to rest up for one of the most anticipated reunion tours of the past two decades. Stones Top Forbes (Again)The Rolling Stones have again topped Forbes magazine's list of music's biggest earners. The Stones raked in approximately $150.6 million in 2006, with the vast majority coming from their A Bigger Bang tour. In 2005 the Stones had the top spot with $168 million. Bon Jovi landed in the #8 spot with $77.2 million. Three other artists who finished in the Top 10 of Forbes' 2005 tally — the Eagles, Paul McCartney and Elton John — did not appear on this year's list. Billy's Knucklehead WinsBilly Joel's latest award has nothing to do with music. Two weeks ago, the 59-year-old singer/songwriter rode up to Miami's Art Deco Weekend Classic Car Fest on his 1946 Harley-Davidson Knucklehead, and asked if he could show off his bike at the event. Joel — a noted Long Island, New York resident who also has a home/palace on Miami Beach's La Gorce Island — ended up leaving the show with the ''Longest Distance Traveled" trophy since his Harley sports a New York license. Big New Orleans Jazz Fest BookingsOrganizers of the 38th Annual New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival have announced that Rod Stewart and Van Morrison will headline the April 27-29 bill, while Steely Dan and ZZ Top will top the May 4-6 weekend. The festival will take place at the Fair Grounds Race Course, which boasts 10 stages for live music events. Bonnie Raitt, Jerry Lee Lewis and the Allman Brothers Band are among the 500 other artists playing the Festival. More More WhoOK – we knew that The Who were going to tour Europe from May until July this year, and then visit Japan, Australia and Hawaii in the Winter. But we didn't know that they were going to play England's famous/infamous Glastonbury music festival in late June! And Pete Townshend says he and singer Roger Daltrey are also discussing plans to celebrate the 40th anniversary of "Tommy" in 2009, stating "We may not be around for the 50th!" Now that sounds like a plan!
Thought For The WeekendThere are only two industries in the world that refer to customers as 'users'. One is the IT industry. The other is the illegal drugs industry. January 27, 2007
Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart would have been 251.
On this day in 1968, Otis Redding's "(Sittin' On) The Dock of the Bay" was released six weeks after he'd been killed in a plane crash. Recorded just three days before he died, it became his only #1 hit. On this day in 1971, David Bowie arrived in the United States for his first promotional tour. While he didn't perform any live dates, he did manage to raise a few eyebrows by wearing a gingham dress. January 28, 2007
On this day in 1956, Elvis Presley made his national television debut on "The Dorsey Brothers Stage Show" on CBS. On this day in 1963, The Rolling Stones recorded a five song demo with producer Glyn Johns, vainly hoping to interest a record label. On this day in 1967, Buffalo Springfield released "For What It's Worth." On this day in 1967, the Jimi Hendrix Experience made its first non-nightclub appearance opening for The Who at London's Saville Theater. No guitars were burned, but everyone had the time of their lives! On this day in 1978, Van Halen unleashed "You Really Got Me," the first single from their self-titled debut album, and Kansas released "Dust In The Wind," the biggest song of their career. On this day in 1978, the Doobie Brothers guest starred on What's Happening!!, yielding the infamous line, "Which Doobie you be?" Who said Seventies TV sitcoms lacked depth? On this day in 1985, a Who's Who in the music world showed up at the legendary A&M Studios in Hollywood to "check their egos at the door" and record "We Are The World" to aid Ethiopian famine relief. The most casual of all was Bruce Springsteen, who parked his car in a public lot across the street and walked on in. On this day in 2005, Traffic drummer Jim Capaldi died in London after a brief fight with stomach cancer at the age of 60. January 29, 2007
On this day in 1977, the Eagles hit #1 with the "Hotel California" album, and the song "Walk This Way" by Aerosmith peaked at #10 on the charts. On this day in 1979, Emerson, Lake & Palmer disbanded for the first time. On this day in 1983, Stevie Nicks married Kim Anderson, the widower of her best friend. They split a year later. On this day in 1992, blues great Willie Dixon died of heart failure in Burbank at the age of 76.
Reunion FeverAs if Genesis, Van Halen and The Police weren't enough, now the British tabloids are saying that Led Zeppelin may be working on a new reunion tour. Yeah, yeah, this one's been around every year since the band split. But the Brit sources are saying that the three surviving members of Led Zeppelin will re-group 20+ years after they disbanded just to do a stadium tour of America. People are saying that the meeting Robert Plant, Jimmy Page and John Paul Jones had two weeks ago with their management wasn't so much about the upcoming remastered/remixed DVD release of "The Song Remains The Same" as it was about offers to tour. The rumor also includes Bonham's son, Jason, taking his father's seat behind the drums. Zeppelin's management said, "Jimmy is itching to do something, but there is nothing firm yet." Stay tuned! Doors/Walk Of FameMark your calendars — February 28th is the day that The Doors will receive their star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. The location is as-yet-undisclosed. Meanwhile, the expanded, remastered versions of the six Doors albums included in last year's "Perception" box set will be issued individually — both digitally and on CD — on March 27th. Just for you retro-rockers, a seven-disc vinyl edition of "Perception" is due in August. B.B.'s BackMaybe you didn't know he was down, but B.B. King is expected to return to the stage tomorrow following a short, health-related episode. The 81-year-old blues legend was admitted to a medical facility in Galveston last Thursday with a low-grade fever brought on by the flu. He was released Saturday afternoon. King is a diabetic, but otherwise said to be in good health. The sudden illness forced King to postpone four shows, all of which have been re-booked on make-good dates. Mellencamp Does It RightJohn Mellencamp is spending some time this morning showing his support for the troops. The singer/songwriter will be among the performers at the dedication ceremony for The Center For The Intrepid. The new, high-tech rehab and recovery facility serves members of the military who are severely injured in combat. The facility at Brooke Army Medical Center in San Antonio also includes two 21-room suites to house the families of soldiers receiving treatment at the hospital. Country duo Big & Rich, actor Denzel Washington, and TV personality Rosie O'Donnell will also be on hand for the event, along with New York Senator Hilary Rodham Clinton and Arizona Senator John McCain. Hmmm... just what injured Vets need — politicians making speeches. Hail Van The ManVan Morrison will be honored for his contribution to movie soundtracks at the "Oscar Wilde: Honouring Irish Writing in Film" Oscar week gala leading up to the 79th Academy Awards ceremony. Al Pacino will present Morrison with the U.S.-Ireland Alliance award, and organizers are "hoping" to have Van perform at the event. With or without the singing sprite, the gala will be held at the Wilshire Ebell in Los Angeles on February 22nd. Also, in an amazing bit of synchronicity with the event, the compilation album "Van Morrison at the Movies" will hit stores on February 13th. Elty's B-day FilmNow it's official. Elton John's organization will co-produce a two-hour U.K. television special titled Elton John Now: 60 Years On. The main portion of the show will be recorded live at New York's Madison Square Garden on March 25th — the Rocket Man's 60th birthday. No word yet on a U.S. airing of the program, but you know it's coming.
Quote Of The DayIt was Jean Giraudoux who said: "Only the mediocre are always at their best." More Weird Ass Laws
Here are just five examples of the strange laws California still has on its books. January 30, 2007
Jefferson Airplane's founder, Marty Balin, is 65.
On this day in 1969, The Beatles did their last public performance on the rooftop of their Apple Corp. Building in London. They played 42 minutes before the cops shut it down. A portion of that performance showed up in the "Let It Be" movie, another portion on the album. On this day in 1971, "Have You Ever Seen The Rain" by Creedence Clearwater Revival entered the charts. On this day in 1971, Janis Joplin's recording of the Kris Kristofferson song "Me and Bobby McGee" was released (four months after her death from a heroin overdose). It soon became her only #1 hit. On this day in 1973, KISS performed together for the first time in makeup at Queens' Popcorn Club. Guitarist Paul Stanley later said that the makeup was inspired by the New York Dolls' outrageous appearance. On this day in 1982, blues guitarist Lightnin' Hopkins died from cancer in Houston at the age of 79. On this day in 1988, Aerosmith's "Angel" broke into the Top 40. On this day in 1998, Sir Elton John received his knighthood from the real Queen of England.
Police Now OfficialAfter weeks of speculation, The Police confirmed today that the Hall Of Fame trio will reunite to open the 49th Annual GRAMMY Awards on February 11th at the Staples Center. The group has not performed live since its 2003 induction into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame. Still to come: the announcement of a year's worth of reunion concerts throughout the world. Starship Play At NoonThe Jefferson Starship is helping Microsoft launch the new Vista operating system, which goes on sale to consumers today. You can see the Starship performing on the back of a special Microsoft flatbed truck at noon today at the Grant Parking Lot west of Hollywood and Highland. They'll take their show to San Francisco on February 7th, New Orleans on February 13th and Austin, Texas on March 14th. Reunion Fever Report #39Sorry — after The Police made their announcement today, there's nothing else new on the Genesis, Van Halen and/or Led Zeppelin reunions. Either everyone's being abnormally well behaved or they're saving up for one hellacious overdose of publicity. Stay tuned! Jovi's Homeless BenefitJon Bon Jovi and designer Kenneth Cole rocked the latest initiative in their ongoing commitment to aid homeless charities last Thursday in New York. The event's silent auction brought in more than $750,000 for Habitat for Humanity, Help USA and the Philadelphia Soul Charitable Foundation. The two will seek to raise more funds for the charities by launching an online auction on February 5th. Update On StevieThe new Stevie Nicks retrospective now has a name and a release date. "The Very Best of Stevie Nicks" will be out on March 27th. The compilation will include live versions of some of her most popular songs, both as a solo performer and as a member of Fleetwood Mac. A DVD filled with Nicks' performing live and a special commentary on her tunes will be included in the package. You can see her perform live as part of CBS' Super Bowl pre-game show this Sunday, and look for her tour with Chris Isaak to get underway in May. A Special Guitar For JerryGerry Tolman, a real cool guy who managed many people including Crosby, Stills & Nash and race driver Tony Stewart, was killed in a car crash about a year ago. Now the Martin guitar company has unveiled a signature CSN acoustic guitar in memory of Jerry. The instrument features the CSN logo, as well as symbols designed by David Crosby, Stephen Stills, Graham Nash and Neil Young on its fretboard. Some of the proceeds from the CSN Gerry Tolman Tribute guitar will go toward supporting Tolman's two children.
Quote Of The DayIt was Stephen Covey who said: "If we keep doing what we're doing, we're going to keep getting what we're getting." January 31, 2007
Guitarist Terry Kath of Chicago would have been 61.
On this day in 1967, Jack Bruce of Cream and lyricist Peter Brown wrote "Sunshine Of Your Love" at about 5:30am ("It's getting near dawn..."). On this day in 1970, "Travelin' Band" by Creedence Clearwater Revival entered the charts.
Burden Joins Tonight's BenefitEric Burdon & The Animals will join Jackson Browne and Bonnie Raitt in tonight's star-studded Beat It Wally concert at the Alex Theatre in Glendale. The event will benefit veteran drummer Wally Ingram, who is fighting throat cancer. In addition, limited-edition prints of a portrait Burdon painted of Ingram are being sold to help raise money for the drummer. Check it out here. Eagles Imminent?Maybe the thought of The Police, Van Halen, Genesis and Crowded House hitting the reunion tour trail was too much for the Eagles to bear. During occasional Eagle Don Henley's solo show at the MGM Grand Garden Arena Saturday night, he announced he expects the band to release their long anticipated, yet unnamed album, "in 60 to 90 days, if we don't kill each other first." He also strongly hinted that the group would hit the road this Summer as long rumored. The touring-monster group's last release — featuring live versions of hits along with a few new tunes — was 1994's "Hell Freezes Over." The last full collection of new Eagles studio material was 1979's "The Long Run." Stay tuned! KISS Kontrolled KomicsKISS, those masters of merchandising, have partnered with the Platinum Studios to create the KISS Comics Group. This is KISS' first attempt to produce its own comic-book-based characters under the control of founding members Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley. First up from the KCG will be "KISS 4K," the story of Simmons, Stanley and other band members' "transformation from rock stars to world-protecting warrior spirits." "KISS 4K" will be released in March as the largest comic book ever published — a 3-foot comic priced at $50. Logically enough, the comic book's release will be followed by "KISS 4K" apparel, video games and comic strips for cell phones as well as "world-protecting warrior spirits" underwear. Krazy! Def/Journey Bike For SaleA customized motorcycle featuring the logos and signatures of 2006 tour mates Def Leppard and Journey is being auctioned by VH1 Classic to raise money to benefit the Cure Autism Now organization. Check it out here. Pete's All Happy NowPete Townshend says he's enjoying his time on the road now more than ever. The verbose legendary Who guitarist says his best concert memories are the most recent ones, stemming from the group's North American tour last Fall. He explains that he likes performing now because "it's finally fun." The Who will be rocking the Long Beach Arena on February 26th, and I'm thinking Pete would be "genuinely pleased" to see you buy a ticket.
Quote Of The DayIt was Yogi Berra who said: "I didn't really say everything I said." Zippy Language Tips for Doo-Dah PeopleThe word "tip," as in a gratuity, is actually an acronym for "To Insure Promptness." The "sixth sick sheik's sixth sheep's sick" is said to be the toughest tongue twister in the English language. The letters "YKK" on zippers stand for Yoshida Kogyo Kabushibibaisha, the largest zipper manufacturer in the world. The only English word that contains a triple letter is "goddessship." In English pubs, drinks are served in pints and quarts. In old England, bartenders would advise unruly customers to mind their own pints and quarts. It's the origin of the phrase "mind your P's and Q's." Why do golfers yell "Fore!"? British infantry once fired volleys from two ranks, rear rank standing behind front rank kneeling, to double the firepower. Rear rankers about to fire warned front rankers to keep heads down by calling out, "Beware before!" Then, "'Ware before!" Then just, "'Fore!" "The quick brown fox jumps over the lazy dog" is commonly believed to be the only English sentence devised to include all the letters of the alphabet. However, for years typesetters have had another such sentence: "Pack my box with five dozen liquor jugs." Once word of this gets out, typing classes may never be the same. |
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