 April 11 - 21, 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! April 11, 2007
Richard Berry, who originally wrote and recorded "Louie Louie," would have been 80. 
On this day in 1956, James Brown debuted on the R&B charts with "Please, Please, Please." On this day in 1961, Bob Dylan played his first professional gig. Gerde's Folk City in New York's Greenwich Village was the place, and "Blowin' in the Wind" was the highlight tune. On this day in 1967, Paul McCartney came up with the idea for The Beatles' film "Magical Mystery Tour" after visiting The Beach Boys during sessions for the album "Smile." Unfortunately, with Beatles' manager Brian Epstein having died from an overdose recently, there was no one around to tell Paul that the film wasn't a good idea. On this day in 1970, as The Beatles disintegrated, their single "Let It Be" hit #1. On this day in 1970, guitarist Peter Green of Fleetwood Mac announced his departure from the original lineup in order to follow his religious beliefs. On this day in 1981, "Don't Stand So Close To Me" by The Police peaked at #10. On this day in 1992, "I Can't Dance" by Genesis peaked at #7 on the charts. 
On Stage TonightChicago will be performing at the Wiltern LG as George Thorogood is rocking the House Of Blues in Anaheim tonight. Live Earth Line-UpsThe two biggest talent line-ups for the July 7th Live Earth concerts are now official. The Police, Smashing Pumpkins, Roger Waters, Dave Matthews Band and Bon Jovi will play the Giants Stadium concert in East Rutherford, New Jersey. Madonna, the Red Hot Chili Peppers, Genesis and the Foo Fighters will perform at London's Wembley Stadium. The other locations for the global warming-focused concerts are the Steps Of The Oriental Pearl Tower in Shanghai, the Johannesburg Cradle Of Human Kind, the Sydney Aussie Stadium, Rio de Janeiro's Copacabana Beach and the Tokyo Dome. Line-ups for those shows will be announced shortly. The concerts will be streamed and broadcast to a potential global audience of two billion people. Stay tuned for more info soon! A Tribute To BradBoston singer Brad Delp's beloved Beatles cover band, Beatlejuice, has put together two tribute shows at the Regent Theater in Arlington, Massachusetts. The In My Life – A Concert For Brad shows on May 3rd and May 4th will feature Beatlejuice fronted by a host of special guest vocalists. I've also been told that members of the most recent Boston line-up — including Mr. & Mrs. Tom Scholz, Mr. & Mrs. Gary Phil and drummer Jeff Neal — plan to attend as audience members to honor Brad's memory and support the singer's friends and family. Those will definitely be extremely emotional shows. Neil Left The BuildingNeil Aspinall, the longtime CEO of the Beatles' Apple Corps, has abruptly left the company. The 64-year-old Aspinall's professional relationship with the Fab Four has spanned more than 40 years, from acting as their roadie to running their entire empire. You can be sure that Chris Carter will have some inside details on his Breakfast With The Beatles program this Sunday morning at 9 on KLOS. Jovi Bounces BioFor some unknown reason, the release of Jon Bon Jovi's highly anticipated biography has been "postponed indefinitely," and so has his corresponding concert to benefit the Book Industry Foundation. Is it possible that the stories hit too close to home? Hey Florida – Please Forgive Jim!The late Doors frontman Jim Morrison may receive a posthumous pardon for shaking his willy. The singer was convicted of exposing himself during a concert in Miami in 1969, but remained free waiting for his appeal to be heard. He died in 1971 without the chance to clear his name (not that he seemed to care). Now two fans have petitioned Florida Governor Charlie Crist to consider giving the Lizard King a posthumous pardon. Jim's father, retired U.S. Admiral George S. Morrison, has also said that he would welcome a pardon for his son. When the Governor learned that Jim attended Florida State University, he "jokingly" said that he would consider the issue. While no one can remember clemency ever being granted to a dead person, we are talking about Florida. Stay tuned! 
Quote Of The DayIt was Maya Angelou who said: "Life offers us tickets to places which we have not knowingly asked for." April 12, 2007
Steppenwolf's head guy, John Kay is 63.
On this day in 1972, The Rolling Stones released "Exile on Main Street" — considered by many to be their finest album. On this day in 1982, John Mellencamp released his "American Fool" album under the name John Cougar. The album was a huge success, enabling John to drop the "Cougar" name as soon as his contract ran out.
On Stage TonightTommy Shaw and Jack Blades are playing the Key Club tonight. Walsh Joins KennyJoe Walsh will be joining Kenny Chesney's band on the country star's Flip Flop Summer Tour. The guitar master will play with Kenny's band in tonight's tour opener in Omaha, and he'll become a regular performer with the group starting with the sold-out Vegas show on May 3rd. Chesney says, "Getting him to come out here with us is gonna be a total blast. Nobody's lived the life quite like him and absolutely nobody plays guitar like he does, either." Right so! Just Another G&R PostponementOh the shock! Oh the surprise! Guns N' Roses has postponed Saturday's start of the long delayed/awaited world tour. They're saying that bassist Tommy Stinson fell down a flight of stairs and sprained his hand, but the group is still planning to play two festivals in South Africa at the end of the month. And then they'll release that darn new "Chinese Democracy" album before L.A. gets an NFL team. Yeah, right. Macca Names ItWord is that Paul McCartney's forthcoming solo album will be called "Memory Almost Full." The first release on Starbucks' Hear Music label is due out on June 5th. They also say that it will include a 15-minute song cycle reminiscent of the finale of the Beatles' "Abbey Road." Lindsey Keeps PlayingFor a guy who didn't like touring, Lindsey Buckingham has sure been spending a lot of time on the road! The fourth leg of his "Under the Skin" solo album support tour will begin on June 6th in Los Angeles and currently is booked through a June 22 concert in Bellingham, Wash. Also, the Fleetwood Mac singer/guitarist's January Fort Worth concert that was filmed for an upcoming HDNet show will also be released on a DVD this Fall. The Leppard Heads OutDon't know how work on their new album is progressing, but Def Leppard will kick off a 50-city Summer tour on June 27th. Foreigner and/or Styx will appear on select dates. We know the boys will hit Chicago, St. Louis, Indianapolis, Detroit and Boston, but haven't heard any specifics on a Southland stop — yet.
Quote Of The DayIt was Marty Indik who said: "Confusion is always the most honest response."  Grand Prix!This weekend: Just like he has every April since 1986, yer Uncle Joe will once again be part of the action at the Toyota Grand Prix of Long Beach. This year he'll kick things off with a Friday broadcast followed by huge Saturday and Sunday Meet & Greets next to the Uncle Joe's Nissan 300ZX race car on display with the KLOS Cool Patrol. And yes, there are brand new collectable autograph cards to be had! Take a look at last year's photos! April 13, 2007
Bassist Jack Casady of the Jefferson Airplane is 63.
On this day in 1963, The Kingsmen recorded "Louie Louie." — the ultimate Rock & Roll song. They used one microphone hanging from the ceiling and, beside not being sure of the correct lyrics, the singer had a real bad sore throat. The result was a true classic! On this day in 1964, The Beatles announced that their first film would be called "A Hard Day's Night." On this day in 1966, The Beatles recorded "Paperback Writer." On this day in 1974, Elton John's "Bennie and the Jets" hit #1 on the singles chart as he released the single "Daniel." On this day in 2005, pioneering rock pianist Johnnie Johnson died in his sleep at the age of 80 in his St. Louis home. Not only did the legendary musician help Chuck Berry get his start in the early 1950s, he was the main inspiration for the song "Johnny B. Good."  This Sunday night at 9 on 95.5 KLOS, OFF THE RECORD with Joe Benson will feature the music of The Rolling Stones as well as Joe's brand new conversation with Bill Wyman.
On StageTommy Shaw and Jack Blades are playing the Coach House tonight, and they'll be rocking the Canyon Club on Saturday. Beatles/Apple Settle Another OneThe Beatles' Apple Corps company has settled its $59.2 million royalties dispute with the band's label, EMI. No one would disclose details of the settlement, but everyone confirmed that it was reached last month. The suit was over alleged unpaid royalties on Beatles albums based on an audit of sales between 1994 and 1999, a period which included the release of three "Anthology" compilations. This settlement follows a deal in February between Apple Corps and Apple Computer over the use of the Apple name. That removed a major obstacle for Beatles tracks to appear on iTunes. The feeling is that with these major settlements finished, Apple Corps CEO Neil Aspinall, who had worked with The Beatles for over 45 years, felt he could finally retire. A Big Honor To The EdgeU2 guitarist The Edge is one of four artists who will receive an honorary Doctor Of Music degree from Boston's prestigious Berklee College Of Music next month. The presentation will take place as part of the school's graduation ceremony on May 12th. David Bowie and Aerosmith's Steven Tyler are among the musicians who have previously been recognized by the college. Another Eagle DelayThe Eagles' long-awaited album, "The Long Road to Eden," has reportedly been rescheduled for release in late June. A couple of months ago singer/drummer Don Henley was talking about an early May release, but it sounds like the group wasn't completely satisfied with the project yet. Meanwhile, Eagles Glenn Frey and Joe Walsh will perform at the National Association of Chain Drug Stores' annual meeting in Scottsdale, Arizona on April 24th. There's some sort of joke about the retail trade in there, but I'll leave it up to you to work it out.
Stressing On TaxesIt's a given that the winter holiday season is the most stressful time for Americans. But a new Harris Poll says that U.S. adults consider preparing their taxes just about as stressful. * 42% of respondents say that preparing their taxes is one of the most stressful things they'll do this year. * When comparing which is most stressful, 49% of adults said that coping with the winter holidays is most stressful, while 40% responded preparing their taxes is most stressful. * When respondents were asked what they would most feel like doing after filing their taxes, 37% chose eating out at a restaurant, compared with 25% who chose taking a vacation, 17% who chose sleeping and 10% who chose having a real stiff drink. April 14, 2007
One-time guitar god Ritchie Blackmore, of Deep Purple and Rainbow, is 62.
On this day in 1963, The Beatles first met The Rolling Stones after The Stones' first set of the night at the Crawdaddy Club in Richmond, England. Keith Richard's first impression? He was blown away by The Beatles' long black leather coats. George Harrison's first impression? He was impressed by the unsigned band's rowdy performance. On this day in 1965, The Beatles announced that they had changed the title of their second film from "Eight Arms to Hold You" to "Help!" On this day in 1969, Paul McCartney and John Lennon recorded The Beatles song "The Ballad of John and Yoko" at Abbey Road Studios. On this day in 1972, The Rolling Stones released the single "Tumblin' Dice" from the "Exile on Main Street" album. On this day in 1979, Van Halen's "Van Halen II" blasted onto the album charts. On this day in 1983, bassist Pete Farndon of The Pretenders, who had just been fired from the band because of his drug problem, died of a drug overdose at the age of 29. On this day in 1987, Fleetwood Mac released their "Tango In The Night" album. On this day in 1989, Tom Petty released his first solo project, "Full Moon Fever." It was a huge success, guaranteeing more T.P. solo efforts. April 15, 2007
Guitarist Dave Edmunds is 63.
On this day in 1966, Buffalo Springfield performed for the first time in public when they opened for the Byrds in San Bernardino. Little did anyone know that two years down the road Buffalo Springfield's Stephen Stills and Neil Young would join up with the Byrds' David Crosby in Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young. On this day in 1971, The Beatles won the Best Film Music (Original Song Score) Oscar for their film "Let It Be." On this day in 1972, "Roundabout" by Yes peaked at #13 and Led Zeppelin's "Rock And Roll" topped out at #47 on the charts. On this day in 1978, Kansas' "Dust In The Wind" peaked at #6 on the singles charts. April 16, 2007
Foghat singer/guitarist "Lonesome Dave" Peverett would have been 64.
On this day in 1947, the first zoom lens was demonstrated to the public. (Would Rock & Roll be the same without it?) On this day in 1972, the Electric Light Orchestra played their first live show. As Jeff Lynne told me, it was just barely so-so. On this day in 1973, Queen played their first U.S. concert at Regis College in Denver. No one knew what to make of them! On this day in 1977, Fleetwood Mac released "Dreams," which soon became their first #1 hit.
Bohemian RaspberryAlthough it's only available in the U.K. for now, Queen's iconic song "Bohemian Rhapsody" has inspired a new ice cream flavor from Ben & Jerry's. Bohemian Raspberry is vanilla ice cream with fudge brownies and raspberry swirls — inexplicably devoid of nuts. Obviously enjoying a sugar rush, Queen guitarist Brian May said, "It's Queentastic! Rhapsolicious! So cool it's not funny! But only if the next one is 'We Will Chock You'!" Proceeds from Bohemian Raspberry will go to the Mercury Phoenix Trust for the fight against AIDS. Ben & Jerry's previous music-themed concoctions have included the incredible Cherry Garcia, named after Grateful Dead leader Jerry Garcia, and Phish Food, which was inspired by the jam band Phish. A Zeppelin CoasterLed Zeppelin is about to become a real roller coaster ride. Led Zeppelin – The Ride is expected to be one of the top attractions at the upcoming Hard Rock Park — billed as "the first rock 'n' roll theme park" by the same folks who brought you the Hard Rock Cafe, Hard Rock Hotel and Hard Rock Casino. Bypassing the Zep's legacy of stoned-out groupies and debauched partying, Led Zeppelin – The Ride will climb over 150 feet, soaring along a looping steel track to the song "Whole Lotta Love." Surviving band members Robert Plant, Jimmy Page and John Paul Jones were reportedly involved in the project's development, including the look and feel of the ride as well as its name, logo and soundtrack. The 140-acre Hard Rock Park in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, will offer 40 attractions along with restaurants, kids areas, and a live performance facility. It's expected to open next Spring. Let The OzzFest Tie-Ins BeginIt sure was great fun debuting Ozzy Osbourne's rocking new single "I Don't Want To Stop" on KLOS last Friday afternoon! Word is that fans who pre-order the OzzMan's new "Black Rain" album will have the first chance to nab tickets to this year's free OzzFest tour. Specially marked copies of the CD (due on May 22nd) will include a code that gives you a shot at two OzzFest passes beginning on June 8th, four days before the tix will be available to the public. Right so! Julian Cashes OutJulian Lennon — John Lennon's only child with first wife Cynthia — has sold a portion of his royalty rights to Beatles songs on which John has writing credits. Details of the agreement with Primary Wave Music Publishing haven't been revealed, but the company is also expected to help Julian with marketing for his next album. You might recognize Primary Wave Music Publishing as the organization that recently purchased Kurt Cobain/Courtney Love's royalty rights and control of Nirvana's music.
Tax Time AgainIt's THAT time of the year again. Don't forget to pay your taxes... 12 million illegal aliens are depending on you! Taxing FactoidsOn February 25, 1913 the 16th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution was ratified, providing for an income tax. Here's the short form on taxing factoids. #1. Americans pay over $30,000 in federal, state and local taxes every second of every day. #2. In a lifetime, the average American files 42 income tax returns and spends 464 hours preparing those forms. The average American earns $1,235,720 in his lifetime, and of this sum pays $178,364 in taxes. #3. The number of unclaimed tax refunds that are being held by the I.R.S.: 96,000. The amount of money that is waiting to be refunded: $62 million. #4. The official manual of the Internal Revenue Service has been hailed as "the world's most confusing publication" — it is 38,000 pages long. #5. In 1695, English law levied a tax on bachelors. At the time, it seemed like a good idea to inspire eligible Englishmen to choose a bride. #6. In 1820, the state of Missouri levied a one-dollar tax on bachelors from ages 21 to 50 because they didn't have a wife. #7. In 1702, Russia enacted a tax on men who sported beards. #8. The sovereign countries with the lowest income tax in the world are Bahrain and Qatar. No matter what one's income is, it's not taxable. (It's nice to have all that oil in the ground, isn't it?) April 17, 2007
On this day in 1960, Rock & Roll pioneer Eddie Cochran was killed and Gene Vincent was seriously injured in a London car crash. On this day in 1964, The Rolling Stones released their debut album, and the Ford Motor Company unveiled the first Mustang. Fortunately, both are still with us. On this day in 1972, Keith Richards became a father to a little girl when Anita Pallenberg gave birth to their daughter, Dandelion. On this day in 1982, Stevie Nicks' "Edge Of Seventeen" peaked at #11 as Van Halen's cover of "(Oh) Pretty Woman" topped out at #12 on the charts and Toto released "Rosanna." On this day in 1998, Linda McCartney died (at 56) of breast cancer.
Tribute To AhmetFriends and fans of the late music legend Ahmet Ertegun will gather in New York City tonight to honor his life and legacy. Artists including Mick Jagger, Eric Clapton, Phil Collins, Led Zeppelin's Jimmy Page, Robert Plant and John Paul Jones, Stevie Nicks and Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young will be at the Lincoln Center for an invitation-only event. Word is that Bette Midler will serve as the evening's host, and Nicks, Collins, Clapton, CSNY and many others will perform. Mick Jagger is one of those who will speak at the memorial. The Atlantic Records founder died in December at age 83 after falling on his head backstage at a Rolling Stones Beacon Theatre concert in October. Monterey's 40thFire up the incense! Taking place two full years before Woodstock, the 1967 Monterey International Pop Festival was rock's first major festival. An extraordinary 40th anniversary double-CD retrospective will be released on June 5th. The package will feature legendary rare early performances from The Who, the Jimi Hendrix Experience, Jefferson Airplane, The Mamas & The Papas and Big Brother & The Holding Company with Janis Joplin. Previously-unreleased tracks from Simon & Garfunkel and Buffalo Springfield will also be included. The special compilation will be available at both Starbucks and traditional retail stores with proceeds benefiting The Monterey International Pop Festival Foundation. The "Imagine" Piano Tour, pt. 4As part of a tour to promote peace, the piano on which John Lennon composed "Imagine" was photographed last Saturday at Washington, D.C.'s Ford's Theatre — the site of Abraham Lincoln's 1865 assassination. The event marked the instrument's fourth visit to a site where an infamous act of violence occurred. The piano is slated to be transported to Waco, Texas and Oklahoma City this Thursday, then Columbine, Colorado on Friday. As you would expect, a book and documentary chronicling the unique campaign are in the works. Cooper MemoirAlice Cooper's memoir, "Alice Cooper, Golf Monster," will be released on May 1st. The book, subtitled "A Rock 'n' Roller's 12 Steps To Becoming a Golf Addict," looks back at Alice's life and career while focusing particularly on how his love of golf helped him kick his alcohol dependency. Considering all he's seen and done, this should be one fascinating read! Leppard Add SouthlandDef Leppard have finally announced all of the 50 dates on their North American Summer tour. The boys will start with a June 27th concert in Cincinnati and hit the Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre in Irvine on September 23rd. Styx and Foreigner will be the opening acts for various dates, although specifics about their schedules haven't been announced.
Tax Time AgainIt's THAT time of the year again. Don't forget to pay your taxes... 12 million illegal aliens are depending on you! Taxing FactoidsOn February 25, 1913 the 16th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution was ratified, providing for an income tax. Here's the short form on taxing factoids. #1. Americans pay over $30,000 in federal, state and local taxes every second of every day. #2. In a lifetime, the average American files 42 income tax returns and spends 464 hours preparing those forms. The average American earns $1,235,720 in his lifetime, and of this sum pays $178,364 in taxes. #3. The number of unclaimed tax refunds that are being held by the I.R.S.: 96,000. The amount of money that is waiting to be refunded: $62 million. #4. The official manual of the Internal Revenue Service has been hailed as "the world's most confusing publication" — it is 38,000 pages long. #5. In 1695, English law levied a tax on bachelors. At the time, it seemed like a good idea to inspire eligible Englishmen to choose a bride. #6. In 1820, the state of Missouri levied a one-dollar tax on bachelors from ages 21 to 50 because they didn't have a wife. #7. In 1702, Russia enacted a tax on men who sported beards. #8. The sovereign countries with the lowest income tax in the world are Bahrain and Qatar. No matter what one's income is, it's not taxable. (It's nice to have all that oil in the ground, isn't it?) April 18, 2007
Doors/Janis Joplin producer Paul Rothchild would have been 72 today.
On this day in 1970, "The Letter" by Joe Cocker entered the charts as Norman Greenbaum's "Spirit in the Sky" peaked at #3 and Badfinger's "Come and Get It" topped out at #7 on the singles chart. On this day in 1981, after recording 11 albums in 13 years, Yes announced they were splitting up. Within two years, they re-formed for the hugely successful "90125" album and tour. On this day in 1988, Eric Clapton's "Crossroads" box set was released. Its overwhelming commercial and artistic success paved the way for many other artists' compilations — most of which were extremely inferior.
Edward Emerges (Sort Of)Van Halen guitarist Eddie Van Halen is apparently ready to return to the spotlight. Edward has agreed to take part in this weekend's NASCAR Nextel Cup race at Phoenix International Raceway. Plans call for Eddie to unveil a limited edition Fender Stratocaster guitar series as part of Friday's activities. Saturday he'll be the honorary Grand Marshall, greeting drivers during the pre-race activities. This will be Van Halen's first public appearance since entering a rehab facility in early March. David Lee Roth is not expected to attend, but should be popping up in the news again real soon. Roddy's Nuptials (Maybe)Rumors about Rod Stewart and fiancée Penny Lancaster's wedding plans are floating through the cosmos. Everything points towards a June 16th date at the Portofino resort on the Italian Riviera. Guests are expected to include Rolling Stones frontman Mick Jagger and Elton John. Word has it that Stewart is hiring private jets to transport attendees to the bash. It almost sounds romantic, doesn't it? New Best Of Van"The Best of Van Morrison, Volume 3" will be released on June 19th. The double-CD collection will feature 31 tracks including previously unreleased duet versions of two Morrison compositions — "Cry for Home" with Welsh crooner Tom Jones and "Tupelo Honey" with soul singer Bobby Bland. Also featured are various other duets, as well as remixes, live tracks and original studio recordings. Trick To Do Pepper At BowlIt won't be the first time they've played with an orchestra, but it will be their first time playing the Hollywood Bowl! Cheap Trick will be the house band at two Bowl concerts celebrating the 40th anniversary of The Beatles' "Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band." As-yet-unannounced guest singers will join the Trick and the Los Angeles Philharmonic as they play the album in its entirety on August 10th and 11th.
Quote Of The DayIt was Hal Lee Luyah (was that really his name?) who said: "A penny saved is a congressional oversight." Google Your BedroomTalk about scary. Google has implemented a new feature that enables you to type a telephone number into the search bar, hit enter and be given the person's name and address. Then, by hitting the MapQuest button, you will get a map to the person's house. It's really a nationwide reverse telephone book. The bottom line — if a child gives out his/her phone number, someone can now look it up to find out where he/she lives. The safety issues are obvious and alarming — just try it with your own phone number. This feature may not apply to you if you have an unlisted number or cell phone as primary contact, but you may know someone who needs to know this. If you want to BLOCK Google from divulging your private information, enter your telephone number and then click on the Removal Form. Removal takes about 48 hours. And feel free to warn everyone you know. April 19, 2007
On this day in 1968, John Lennon, George Harrison and their wives left the Maharishi Mahesh Yogi's ashram in Rishikesh, India two weeks before their study was complete. Fellow Beatles Ringo Starr and Paul McCartney had actually split several days earlier. On this day in 1969, Steppenwolf's "Rock Me" peaked at #10 on the singles chart. On this day in 1974, guitarist Ron Wood played his first live show with The Rolling Stones. On this day in 1975, Elton John fired his longtime bassist, Dee Murray, and drummer, Nigel Olsson, the day before his album "Captain Fantastic and the Brown Dirt Cowboy" was released. A few years later, after he cleared his head, Sir Diva rehired the boys. On this day in 1980, Van Halen's third album, "Women & Children First," blasted onto the charts. On this day in 1980, Brian Johnson replaced the late Bon Scott as AC/DC's lead singer. Within two weeks, the band was recording their classic "Back In Black" album. On this day in 1980, the Eagles' "I Can't Tell You Why" peaked at #8 on the singles chart.
Felder's Been WritingAs his wrongful termination lawsuit against Eagles Don Henley and Glenn Frey continues to grind through the court system (it may be finally resolved in early May), former Eagles guitarist Don Felder has been writing a tell-all book. "Heaven And Hell: My Life As An Eagle," set for an October release, is described by its publisher as "the most blistering frank book ever written by a member of a major rock group." (Note: We wouldn't expect anything different from Don!) Felder — who co-wrote many Eagles songs including "Hotel California" — joined the band in 1974 and was fired from the group in 2001. This is going to be interesting! Jim Might Be ClearedWord is that Florida Governor Charlie Crist is very seriously considering pardoning Jim Morrison's 1970 indecent exposure and profanity convictions stemming from a 1969 Doors concert in Miami. Morrison was very drunk at the show and police said he exposed himself, which Morrison denied. After attending a rally against global warming with Sheryl Crow on Monday, Governor Crist told the press, "He (i.e. Morrison) died when he was 27. That's really a kid, when you think about it, and obviously he was having some challenges. There's some dispute about how solid the case was." Doors keyboardist Ray Manzarek has always said that he never saw Morrison expose himself, and none of the 100+ photos entered into evidence showed Morrison's genitals. Morrison appealed the convictions, but died in a Paris bathtub before the appeal could be heard. As Manzarek said, "Wouldn't it be great if Florida could finally say, 'Hey, native son, Your name is cleared. We recognize you as a young American poet.'" Right so! Stoning Horses For A Stones ShowThe Rolling Stones' first-ever concert in Serbia is creating quite a stir. On July 14th, The Stones are slated to perform before over 100,000 people at the Hippodrome, Serbia's largest fenced-in space. Officials at the race course are planning to sedate over 300 horses stabled there to keep them calm during the concert. Serbia's main animal protection group argues that sedating the horses is not the answer, so they're asking that the concert be relocated. Ironically, the sedative that is being proposed for the horses is one that many adult Serbians took during NATO's 1999 airstrikes against the country's nasty regime. So far there's been no word from Keith Richards, who certainly knows a thing or two about sedation. De-Facing Phil For CharityAn art exhibit featuring images of Phil Collins reworked by various artists and musicians opened today at the Art Vinyl Gallery Shop in London. For the De-Face Value exhibition, folks like Robert Plant, Yes keyboardist Rick Wakeman and former Rolling Stones bassist Bill Wyman painted over copies of the Collins albums "Face Value" and "No Jacket Required" to create very unique portraits. Proceeds raised from the event will benefit the U.K. charity Children in Hunger.
Quote Of The DayIt was Plato who said: "Wise men talk because they have something to say; fools talk because they have to say something." April 20, 2007
Keyboardist Craig Frost, who worked with Detroit-based artists like Grand Funk and Bob Seger, is 58.
On this day in 1965, Eric Clapton joined John Mayall's Bluesbreakers. On this day in 1966, The Beatles recorded the vocals for Paul McCartney's song "Eleanor Rigby" — none of the Fab Four played any instruments on the tune. On this day in 1968, Deep Purple played their first concert ever. Denmark was the place, "Deaf in Denmark" was the result. On this day in 1991, Small Faces/Humble Pie singer/guitarist Steve Marriott died in a fire at his home in London. He was just 44. This Sunday night at 9 on 95.5 KLOS, OFF THE RECORD with Joe Benson will feature the music of REO Speedwagon as well as Joe's brand new conversation with singer Kevin Cronin.
Rolling Stone Collectors BewareLooks like my complete collection is about to become obsolete. Every issue of Rolling Stone magazine will be available on DVD this Fall. "Rolling Stone Cover-to-Cover: The First 40 Years" will allow searches for every photograph, article and review ever published in the mag. The DVD release coincides with Rolling Stone's 40th anniversary, which will also be celebrated in three 40th anniversary editions of the magazine. A Spider-MusicalSpider-Man: The Broadway Musical may not be the official title, but Marvel Studios is assembling the elements for a Broadway musical starring the popular superhero. The production will be directed by Tony winner Julie Taymor, and U2's Bono and The Edge are among those creating new music and lyrics for the project. No opening dates have been set, but actor's readings are planned for this Summer. Jackson & David Return To SchoolJackson Browne and David Crosby will perform at a June 2nd benefit concert for the For The Arts program of California's Santa Monica/Malibu Unified School District. The event on the campus of Santa Monica High School will also feature an auction that includes autographed guitars from the two artists. Police Going To HavanaThe Police kick off their 30th anniversary reunion tour in Vancouver on May 28th, and now it looks like they'll end it in Cuba around Christmas. The group has "initiated discussions of a free concert in Havana as an expression of their gratitude to Cuban fans who have supported the Police throughout the years... While planning details are currently underway, it is the band's intention to put on a free show in Havana this December." Tribute To AhmetThe stars turned out in force Tuesday night in New York City to pay their respects to the late Atlantic Records founder Ahmet Ertegun. Rolling Stones frontman Mick Jagger set the tone by telling the Lincoln Center audience that while some people thought of Ertegun as a father figure, his impression of Ertegun was "more like the wicked uncle with the wicked chuckle." Eric Clapton was part of a band that played two early Atlantic Records hits and also backed R&B legend Solomon Burke for his performance. Crosby, Stills & Nash did The Beatles song "In My Life," then were joined by Neil Young for "Helplessly Hoping." Then Young and Stephen Stills did a version of their Buffalo Springfield classic "Mr. Soul." Phil Collins did a solo piano version of his hit "In The Air Tonight," then was joined by his Genesis bandmates for a run through "Follow You, Follow Me." Stevie Nicks and her band performed "Stand Back" and ripped through Led Zeppelin's "Rock And Roll." The rumored Zep reunion didn't happen, but John Paul Jones backed Ben E. King at the memorial, while Robert Plant and Jimmy Page sang along at an after-party in Central Park. Others taking part in the event were Free/Bad Company singer Paul Rodgers, Foreigner guitarist Mick Jones, R&B legend Sam Moore of Sam & Dave, Bette Midler and Yes drummer Alan White. The Lincoln Center event was filmed, but there's been no word on whether a commercial release is planned.
Quote For The WeekendIt was Dave Barry who said: "Without question, the greatest invention in the history of mankind is beer. Oh, I grant you that the wheel was also a fine invention, but the wheel does not go nearly as well with pizza." |
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