 October 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! October 21, 2007
Guitarist Steve Cropper and bandleader/keyboardist Manfred Mann are both 66. 
On this day in 1961, 20-year-old Bob Dylan recorded his first album. It cost $400 to produce, was finished in one day and you could understand every word on it. On this day in 1972, America released their song "Ventura Highway." On this day in 1983, Yes released "Owner of a Lonely Heart," which went on to become their first #1 hit. October 22, 2007
Guitarist Leslie West of Mountain is 62.
On this day in 1976, Keith Moon played his last show with The Who before a paying audience at Maple Leaf Gardens in Toronto. On this day in 1977, "Cold As Ice" by Foreigner peaked at #6 as Queen's "We Will Rock You/We Are The Champions" entered the singles charts. On this day in 1982, "The Eagles Greatest Hits Volume II" was released. On this day in 1983, "Burning Down The House" by the Talking Heads peaked at #9 on the singles chart. On this day in 1994, producer Jimmy Miller died in Boulder, Colorado. After surviving The Rolling Stones' lifestyle from the late Sixties through the mid-Seventies, Jimmy finally succumbed to lung cancer. 
The Nobel Will RockThis year's Nobel Peace Prize Concert is gonna rock. When informed that each award recipient was allowed to invite one performer, this year's prize winner, former Vice President Al Gore, immediately invited Melissa Etheridge to play the gig. Others scheduled to perform at the exclusive December 11th show include Earth, Wind & Fire, Alicia Keys and Annie Lennox. Vault Countersuit TossedA San Jose judge has dismissed all but one claim against the Grateful Dead, The Doors, Led Zeppelin and Carlos Santana in a countersuit filed by owners of the Wolfgang's Vault website. Last year the rock icons sued the archive, which sells memorabilia and streams concert recordings, for copyright infringement. The company's executives countersued this past February, arguing the musicians' suit was an attempt to destroy their business. However, the judge rejected that contention Thursday, calling it "premature." Bruce/Bob/Jackson/CompPreviously unreleased live tracks from Bruce Springsteen, Bob Dylan and Jackson Browne will be among the tunes featured on the "Serve2" compilation due out on November 6th. Proceeds from the album will benefit the World Hunger Year charity's Artists Against Hunger & Poverty initiative. J.T. Goes Solo AgainJames Taylor really was a solo act when he first started out in the late Sixties. It was just him, his amazing voice, a guitar, a suitcase and a few songs. His new CD/DVD, "One Man Band," marks a return to that spirit. Besides wonderful stripped down versions of some of J.T.'s biggest hits, the CD/DVD also features exclusive interviews, rare footage, home movies and photos from James' personal archives. November 13th is the first day you can get "One Man Band" at Starbucks, then at all other outlets on November 26th. 
Quote Of The DayIt was author Ambrose Bierce who said: "The gambling known as business looks with austere disfavor upon the business known as gambling." Shav Glick R.I.P.Shav Glick, the best friend Southern California racing fans ever had, died of complications from melanoma on Saturday at the age of 87. In his 37 years of covering motorsports for the L.A. Times, Shav often gave his readers far more insight into the personalities and forces behind the scenes than the rest of us in the press room were privy to. He was — quite rightly — the first writer for a general circulation newspaper to be inducted into the Motorsports Hall Of Fame, and always had a gentle word for those around him. As three-time NASCAR Champion Darrell Waltrip said, "He was the sweetest man I ever met in my whole life." Here's a great column Bill Dwyre wrote about our friend. A celebration of Shav's life is being planned. Donations in his name may be made to Vitas Hospice Charitable Fund, 598 S. Grand Ave., Covina, CA 91724; or to the Pasadena City College Foundation for the Shav Glick Journalism Scholarship, 1570 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena, CA 91106. October 23, 2007
Johnny Carson would have been 84.
On this day in 1965, "Turn!, Turn!, Turn!" by The Byrds entered the charts on it's way to becoming their third big hit. The song's lyrics were drawn from the Biblical 'Book of Ecclesiastes.' On this day in 1975, Elton John played a sold-out show at Dodger Stadium on the final night of his "Captain Fantastic and the Brown Dirt Cowboy" tour. On this day in 1976, ELO released the song "Livin' Thing." On this day in 1982, "Gypsy" by Fleetwood Mac peaked at #12 and "Hold On" by Santana topped out at #15 on the charts.
Robert & Alison LiveLed Zeppelin's Robert Plant and bluegrass star Alison Krauss hit the stage last Thursday in Lebanon, Tennessee to tape an episode of CMT's "Crossroads." In addition to songs from their new collaborative album, "Raising Sand," the singers performed a banjo-infused version of the classic Led Zeppelin tune "Black Dog" and a rendition of the Zep's cover of Memphis Minnie's blues classic, "When The Levee Breaks." The show's executive producer told the press, "To say this is the hottest ticket in town is an understatement. We've had Nobel Peace Prize winners calling trying to get in here." (Was that a reference to Al Gore?) Do you suppose that this taping is actually a preview of their forthcoming tour? The "Crossroads" program itself is expected to air in January. Bob's Gotta CaddyAfter years of using Led Zeppelin's "Rock & Roll" as a theme song, Cadillac has just plugged into Bob Dylan's 2001 song "Summer Days" — the one with the lyrics, "I'm drivin' in the flats in a Cadillac car." Bob even makes an appearance in a new series of TV ads, driving a black Escalade across the California desert in a cowboy hat and shades before getting out of the car to say, "What's life without taking a detour." Right on Bob! Ozzy's DonatingOzzy Osbourne says he'll donate all of his net profits from the ticket sales and merchandise from his November 30th show at the Staples Center to The Sharon Osbourne Colon Cancer Program. That foundation helps improve the lives of patients and their loved ones by providing them with at-home help, childcare, transportation and more. Right so, Ozz-Man! Carlos On TVCarlos Santana's music will be showcased on tonight's episode of the CBS drama "Cane." Although you won't see Carlos on the screen, the show does star Jimmy Smits. Nuge's Suit TossedA Michigan appeals court has rejected Ted Nugent's appeal of an earlier ruling reducing the amount of money he was awarded in a breach-of-contract lawsuit against organizers of a 2003 music festival in Michigan. Nugent sued after his appearance at the Muskegon Summer Celebration was canceled in the wake of racially offensive comments he made during a radio interview. The Nuge was at first awarded a $100,000 settlement, but the sum was decreased by $20,000 at a later trial.
Quote Of The DayIt was Dr. Seuss who said: "Don't cry because it's over. Smile because it happened." Help The Evacuees
As the Southland struggles with another day of wild fires, Santa Ana winds and almost 300,000 displaced people, KLOS' Cynthia Fox has been monitoring the evacuee situation as best as possible. Here's her top three listings for volunteering to help evacuees: October 24, 2007
Bassist Bill Wyman of The Rolling Stones is 71.
On this day in 1967, Pink Floyd arrived in the U.S. to begin their first North American tour. Their first stop was Bill Graham's famed Fillmore West in San Francisco and, by all accounts, group mastermind Syd Barrett was physically present — no more, no less. On this day in 1970, The Kinks' "Lola" peaked at #9 on the charts. On this day in 1980, Paul McCartney received a rhodium disc from the Guinness Book of World Records celebrating his status as the world's best-selling songwriter. On this day in 1981, "Leather & Lace," the Stevie Nicks/Don Henley duet, entered the singles chart. On this day in 1983, Stevie Nicks released her album, "The Wild Heart." On this day in 1987, George Harrison's cover of "Got My Mind Set On You" entered the singles chart.
On StageThe Eagles and Dixie Chicks are performing tonight, Friday and Saturday at the brand new state-of-the-art Nokia Theatre L.A. Live. Zep Hits iTunesMark your calendar — all 165 songs Led Zeppelin has ever recorded will finally be available on iTunes on November 13th. The "Complete Led Zeppelin" "digital box set" will include the band's 13 studio albums plus the new 24-track retrospective collection, "Mothership," for just $99. Everyone who pre-orders the box set or "Mothership" through iTunes will automatically be entered into a contest for a pair of tickets to the Zep's one-off reunion gig in London on November 26th. Three winners will be chosen for the prize that also includes access to a private dress rehearsal the day before. Meanwhile, Zeppelin guitar god Jimmy Page, a hardcore audiophile, is also working on potential upgrades to the catalog including a special 5.1 Audio mix. No Reunion broadcastLed Zeppelin has also clarified reports that no live recording would be made of their November 26th reunion concert/tribute to Atlantic Records founder Ahmet Ertegun. Although they're not allowing a broadcaster of any kind to record the show, the band is recording it for their own archive. As you'd expect, they'll decide what they want to do with it when they feel like it. No Big Tour This TimeDon Henley of the Eagles — who will be Jim Ladd's special guest on KLOS tomorrow evening — says he doesn't expect the group to launch an extensive tour in support of its highly anticipated "Long Road Out of Eden" album. Don says that he intends to work on a new solo album next year while fellow Eagle Glenn Frey has plans for a musical-theater project. Another Zep Support ActHard to believe that the promoters thought Led Zeppelin's one-off reunion gig needed another opening act. But word is that an impromptu group featuring Bad Company drummer Simon Kirke, Emerson, Lake & Palmer keyboardist Keith Emerson as well as Yes bassist Chris Squire and keyboardist Rick Wakeman have been added to the line-up of the November 26th Ahmet Ertegun tribute concert in London. Now if only they could find a wee singer... All Ray/No DaveRay Davies says he misses playing with The Kinks and his younger brother, Kinks guitarist Dave Davies. Even though Ray and Dave infamously fought like wild dogs, Ray says, "I would like to work with him on a creative level again. It's something I really look forward to, as irksome and painful as it can be at times." Meanwhile, "Working Man's Café" — Ray's new solo album completely recorded without his brother — is now available on iTunes.
Quote Of The DayIt was Oscar Wilde who said: "Work is the curse of the drinking classes." October 25, 2007
Vocalist Jon Anderson of Yes is 63.
On this day in 1960, a 17-year-old Mick Jagger coincidentally met his old school chum Keith Richards on a train. While the two bonded over a mutual love of R&B records, fame and the "Glimmer Twins" were still a long way off. On this day in 1964, The Rolling Stones appeared for the first time on the "Ed Sullivan Show." Afterward, letters from concerned parents — chastising the program's producers for the booking — flooded the show's offices. Despite CBS's promise that The Stones would never grace their studio again, they were back on the show a few months later. Oh, the scandal! Oh, the ratings! On this day in 1991, concert promoter Bill Graham (who ran the Fillmore East & West) was killed in a helicopter crash north of San Francisco.  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 conversation with Keith Richards and Mick Jagger.
On Stage TonightPeter Frampton will be rocking the House Of Blues in Anaheim tonight. J.T./World SeriesJames Taylor will perform the national anthem before Game Two of the World Series at Fenway Park tonight. It's the second time Taylor's sung at a Red Sox World Series game — he also had the honor three years ago, when Boston swept the St. Louis Cardinals to capture the team's first championship in 86 years. It's a good thing James was scheduled for the second game and not the seventh: last night Boston obliterated the Colorado Rockies by a score of 13 to 1 — the most lopsided Game One in the 104 years of the World Series! Eat With The OzzMan!Those darn Osbournes sure know how to do promotions! Ozzy is giving fans a chance to join him and his family for Thanksgiving at his new L.A. residence. The winner of a special online bidding contest and three friends will be treated to the lovable Metal Madman's own Yorkshire pudding, and will also receive spending money, free airfare, accommodations and tickets to Osbourne's November 20th show in San Diego. Check it out at http://www.ozzy.com/news/win-thanksgiving-with-ozzy — and good luck! Police ExtendingAfter recently canceling a number of European concerts because of Sting's strep throat infection, The Police have officially extended their tour. While some (not us!) thought that the band was supposed to end their tour in Japan in February, they've now confirmed early Summer European dates in which they'll make up the missed dates. Where does the Southland fit into this? Stay tuned! Mikey's Doing FineAfter his acrimonious and controversial ouster from the group he helped to found, former Van Halen bassist Michael Anthony is once again fronting his own Mad Anthony Express trio on stage, playing "more obscure" Van Halen tracks and a few cover songs. Working with former V.H. singer Sammy Hagar, some nights Anthony and Hagar even bring out their Los Tres Gusanos to play early Hagar material, and at every show the duo plays a set of Hagar-era Van Halen material as the Other Half. Mikey says, "I'm on stage for a good part of the night... (and) I'm having a great time doing it. It's not like we need the money; we can just go out there and party with the fans and we have a great time doing it." For the record, Michael and Sammy were the only V.H. members to attend the group's Rock & Roll Hall of Fame induction in March. Lots O' GenesisGenesis' "Live Over Europe" album — due out on November 20th — will include a number of songs the band hadn't performed in decades. Among them are Peter Gabriel-era tunes such as "Carpet Crawlers," "Firth of Fifth" and "I Know What I Like (In Your Wardrobe)." The band's Phil Collins-led hit making period is represented by songs like "Turn It on Again," "Follow You Follow Me," "Invisible Touch" and "Land of Confusion." The trademark — and quite mind boggling — double drum solo sequence featuring Collins and Chester Thompson has also made the cut. BUT WAIT — THERE'S MORE! Genesis' 12-disc boxed set featuring expanded editions of their 1983–1998 albums will also be out on November 20th. Just in time for Christmas giving!
Quote Of The DayIt was Coach John Wooden who said: "Failure is not fatal, but failure to change might be." Halloween SweetsHalloween is the season of ghosts, goblins, and most of all, candy. According to The Nielsen Company, U.S. consumers are expected to purchase more than $2.1 billion in candy this Halloween season. The holiday generates the greatest sales volume of sweets for the entire year, with candy sales expected to jump nearly 63% compared to the previous 10-week period. Nielsen's analysis of 52 major U.S. markets shows that residents of the Salt Lake City/Boise metropolitan area bought 80% more candy than would be expected for a market its size, followed by Seattle and Portland, Oregon. Nielsen found that sales jump during Halloween for other spooky and savory items. 89% of annual costume hair coloring sales occur during the 10 weeks leading up to and including Halloween, as do 36% of sales of both refrigerated and shelved ciders and 28% of lollipops. October 26, 2007
On this day in 1965, The Beatles were awarded M.B.E. (Members of the British Empire) medals by Queen Elizabeth II. The Fab Four were the first non-military recipients of the award, which was given in recognition of the amount of attention, financial and otherwise, that the group had generated for Britain. Although none of the other Beatles ever confirmed it, John Lennon said the boys smoked "a bit of marijuana" in one of the palace bathrooms to calm their nerves. Talk about a high point in their career! On this day in 1978, The Police played their first American show at Boston's Rat Club. On this day in 1981, David Bowie and Queen recorded "Under Pressure" in Montreux, Switzerland.
On StageThe Eagles and Dixie Chicks are performing tonight at the brand new state-of-the-art Nokia Theatre L.A. Live. On Stage SaturdayThe Eagles and Dixie Chicks are wrapping up their six-night run at the brand new state-of-the-art Nokia Theatre L.A. Live Saturday, as Peter Frampton and his band rock the Canyon Club in Agoura Hills. Pete & Roger In NYCGuitarist Pete Townshend and singer Roger Daltrey of The Who will be on hand for the U.S. premiere of their new documentary, "Amazing Journey: The Story Of The Who," next Tuesday in New York. The two legends have also agreed to participate in a Q&A session following the screening, which is being held in conjunction with DocFest07. "Amazing Journey..." will be included on a double-DVD set that will be released on November 6th. Mills Movie MadnessThis could be one scary flick. Heather Mills, the estranged wife of former Beatle Paul McCartney, was reportedly in L.A. last week to discuss a movie made about her life. She supposedly wants to be played by Oscar-winner Reese Witherspoon, but is hoping an unknown actor will play McCartney. The 39-year-old Mills reportedly sees the film as an empowering story of a model who loses her leg in an accident, overcomes her difficulties and then marries her prince. And then sues him for tens of millions of dollars. Mills and McCartney split in May, 2006 after nearly four years of marriage. They have yet to reach a divorce settlement with a sticking point being Mills' refusal to agree to a confidentiality clause. Oooo — it all sounds so Hollywood, doesn't it? Bridge School This WeekendJerry Lee Lewis and Tom Waits — two guys you'd never expect to share a cab — are among the stars slated to join Neil Young's 21st Annual Bridge School Benefit Concerts at the Shoreline Amphitheater in Mountain View this weekend. The two-night fundraiser features an eclectic bill including Pearl Jam frontman Eddie Vedder, drummer Jack Irons and Red Hot Chili Peppers bassist Flea. Metallica, who last played a Bridge School concert a decade ago, and first timer John Mayer are also on the bill. Proceeds from the shows will go to the Bridge School, a special educational facility that helps children with severe speech and learning disabilities. Sammy's Big PlansEven though Sammy Hagar just turned 60, he's not slowing down! In fact, he says it's making him work that much harder. "There's so much I want to do, and there's nothing I feel holding me back — nothing with my age or my physical health or my strength or my enthusiasm, my talent. I'm having more fun than I've ever had, I gotta tell ya." Hagar, who's currently on the road with former Van Halen bandmate Michael Anthony, is about "halfway through" recording his new album. He'll support the yet-to-be-named album with a Summer festival "anthology" tour featuring the original Montrose lineup, his original Sammy Hagar Band, his current group, the Wabos, and a "superstar guitarist" that will join him and Anthony to play Van Halen material. Right so! Bruce & Frankie & MerylBet you didn't know that the State of New Jersey has a Hall Of Fame. Well, they don't — yet. But the Governor, one Jon Corzine, has announced that Bruce Springsteen will be among the 15 inaugural members of the New Jersey Hall Of Fame, alongside Frank Sinatra and actress Meryl Streep in the Arts & Entertainment category. The induction ceremony will be held somewhere in Newark on May 4th. For the record, a building to house the New Jersey Hall Of Fame has not yet been constructed, but... you can furnish your own punchline here.
 Photo: Wally Skalij / Los Angeles Times Help The Wildfire Victims
Since last Saturday, 17 wildfires have destroyed over 1,600 Southern California homes and commercial buildings. The burn area exceeds 460,000 acres — about 719 square miles — from Ventura County east to the San Bernardino National Forest and south to the U.S.-Mexico border. Over 750,000 people are estimated to have been displaced. A Thought For The WeekendThere are worse things than getting a call for a wrong number at 4am. It could be a right number. Why Pumpkins Are Better Than Men
1. Every year you get a brand new crop to choose from. October 27, 2007
Bassist Garry Tallent of The E Street Band is 59.
On this day in 1962, the fledgling Rolling Stones made their first recordings at London's Curly Clayton Studios. Vocalist Mick Jagger, guitarists Keith Richards and Brian Jones, pianist Ian Stewart and drummer Tony Chapman covered blues songs by Muddy Waters, Jimmy Reed and Bo Diddley, but no record deal resulted. On this day in 1973, Bob Dylan's "Knockin' On Heaven's Door" peaked at #12 as Elton John's "Goodbye Yellow Brick Road" entered the singles charts. On this day in 1975, Bruce Springsteen was hailed as the most important artist of the day on the covers of both "Time" and "Newsweek" magazines, even though he'd never had a hit single or sold very many albums. On this day in 1979, Foreigner's "Dirty White Boy" peaked at #12 as Journey's "Lovin', Touchin', Squeezin'" topped out at #16 on the charts. On this day in 1984, Pat Benatar's "We Belong" entered the singles chart. On this day in 1986, The Police's compilation album "Every Breath You Take: The Singles" was released. On this day in 2002, Tom Dowd, one of the most legendary record producers in the history of Rock & Roll, died of natural causes at the age of 77 in Florida. October 28, 2007
On this day in 1956, Elvis Presley made his second appearance on The Ed Sullivan Show, performing "Don't Be Cruel," "Love Me Tender," "Hound Dog" and "Love Me." On this day in 1961, a customer asked Liverpool record store clerk Brian Epstein for "My Bonnie," a single by The Beatles. Epstein didn't have it, but after a second customer requested the record, he ordered it and tracked the group down to the Cavern Club. Epstein later became the band's manager. On this day in 1964, filming of the T.A.M.I. Show began at the Santa Monica Civic. The highly influential concert movie was actually shot over three days, and featured Chuck Berry, the Beach Boys, Smokey Robinson & the Miracles, Marvin Gaye, the Supremes, The Rolling Stones and a smoking performance by James Brown. On this day in 1967, The Who's "I Can See For Miles" entered the charts as "People Are Strange" by The Doors peaked at #12. On this day in 1977, the Sex Pistols released their album "Never Mind the Bollocks Here's The Sex Pistols" in the United States. The album, which still stands as a testament to what punk rock was all about, eventually sold a million copies — though it took 10 years to do so. On this day in 1977, Steve Perry joined Journey for their first public concert together, in San Francisco. On this day in 1978, Bob Seger released the song "We've Got Tonight." On this day in 1983, almost five years to the day after their first U.S. gig at a small club in Boston, The Police played Miami's Orange Bowl in front of an audience of over 48,000 people. During 1983's "Synchronicity" tour (the band's last), they set box office records with sold-out shows at stadiums across the States. On this day in 1985, two highly successful albums were released: Robert Palmer's "Riptide" and ZZ Top's "Afterburner." On this day in 1986, Bon Jovi's "Slippery When Wet" album began an eight-week stay at #1 on the charts. On this day in 1989, Aerosmith's "Love In An Elevator" peaked at #5 on the charts. On this day in 1991, Genesis released their "We Can't Dance" album. October 29, 2007
Guitarist/vocalist Denny Laine of the Moody Blues and Wings is 63.
On this day in 1969, Creedence Clearwater Revival released their "Willy & The Poor Boys" album. On this day in 1971, guitarist Duane Allman of the Allman Brothers Band was killed in a motorcycle accident at the age of 24. On this day in 1973, John Lennon released the song "Mind Games." On this day in 1976, the "Best Of The Doobies" was released to buy time as The Doobie Brothers worked up new music in the studio. On this day in 1977, "Come Sail Away" by Styx and Fleetwood Mac's "You Make Loving Fun" both entered the charts. On this day in 1977, Meatloaf released his classic "Bat Out Of Hell" album. On this day in 1981, Rush released "Exit... Stage Left," named after their favorite Yogi Bear line. On this day in 1999, the surviving members of The Who — Pete Townshend, Roger Daltrey and John Entwistle — reunited for the first time in two years for a concert at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas to promote an Internet video company. Also performing that night were KISS, Tony Bennett and the Dixie Chicks.
On StageTonight Bruce Springsteen & The E Street Band will be rocking the L.A. Sports Arena for the first of two nights. Brits Plant Butts On Ozzy's FaceReports from the U.K. say that a lot of people have been planting their English buttocks on Ozzy Osbourne's face. It seems that the Ozz-Man's star along a Hollywood-style Walk of Fame in his old home town of Birmingham, England is a little too polished. Granted, it's a rare day when you hear the name "Ozzy" and the term "too polished" in the same sentence, but the slick Ozz-Face is causing those that step on it to slip. Quite a picture, isn't it? Humongous Giant Big Pink (Floyd) SetTurns out that Pink Floyd's belated 40th anniversary "surprise" is a massive box set of all of the band's proper studio albums, cleverly titled "Oh By The Way." Each compact disc in the set will be housed in mini-reproductions of the original vinyl packaging, complete with all the posters and postcards and dust jackets that accompanied the original records, except in miniature. The set even includes the original, iconic "Dark Side of the Moon" album cover for the first time since 1993. (Sorry, it does lack the rarities collection "Relics.") And be assured that the behemoth set (priced at just under $200) will be out on December 4th — just in time for Christmas! Metallica/Tom Waits/Bridge School BenefitSounds like that Tom Waits working with the Kronos Quartet turned in one of the more thrilling sets at this past weekend's Bridge School Benefit Concerts, while Metallica played one of the most surprising sets. Saturday night's show at the Neil Young-organized benefit featured the metal band playing primarily classic rock covers such as Rare Earth's "I Just Want To Celebrate," Nazareth's "Please Don't Judas Me," Dire Straits' "Brothers in Arms" and Bob Seger's "Turn the Page." Jovi Hits The RoadBon Jovi have started a world tour of 10 (or more) countries with 10 concerts at the new Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey. Logically, the boys are embarking on the "Lost Highway World Tour" in support of their latest album, "Lost Highway." The tour will make make stops in Japan, New Zealand, England, Ireland, Scotland, Germany, Holland and Austria, among other countries. Southland dates will include April 4th and 5th at the Honda Center in Anaheim as well as an April 9th stop at the Staples Center. Keef Hits The StreetRolling Stone Keith Richards joined 15,000 protesters to help save a U.K. hospital near his Redlands estate in West Sussex. The 63-year-old arrived at the demonstration dressed in a long black leather coat, trilby/pork pie hat and sunglasses. He told the crowd that he's personally received treatment at St. Richard's Hospital, and over the years medical personnel at the facility have saved the lives of people dear to him. The crowd loved it when he pointedly said that the facility should be upgraded instead of downsized. Gesturing toward a nearby church he added, "There's a big building over there called the cathedral that will look after you in the hereafter. St. Richard's will take care of you in the here and now." Right so! Breaking That Darn Guitarists' RecordLast year, 1,721 guitarists performing Deep Purple's "Smoke on the Water" in Kansas City broke the Guinness Book world record for most axemen playing at one time. New year, new record: 1,739 guitarists in Shillong, India played Bob Dylan's "Knockin' on Heaven's Door." (Who knew Dylan was big in India?) Turns out that Shillong is already in the "Guinness Book of World Records" after nearly 8,000 drummers performed in perfect rhythm for five minutes just last year. Sure sounds like a lot of Shillongers figure music is their ticket out of town!
Carrie Ann Inaba of "Dancing With The Stars" Wildfire Relief Fund Update
The effects of the Southern California Wildfires have been devastating — over 1,800 Southern California homes and commercial buildings destroyed, the burn area now exceeds 700,000 acres and over 750,000 people are estimated to have been displaced at one time or another. A Champion Gives BackWhen El Cajon native/2006 NASCAR Nextel Cup Champion Jimmie Johnson won Sunday's Pep Boys Auto 500 at Atlanta Motor Speedway, two things of note happened. First, Jimmie pulled within 9 points of teammate/four-time NASCAR Cup Champion Jeff Gordon, the current points leader, with just three races remaining in the Chase For The Nextel Cup. Second, Johnson donated his winnings from the victory to help aid the Red Cross' California Wildfire Victims Relief effort. With matching funds from other parties including sponsor Lowe's, track owner Bruton Smith and others, the total pledge will exceed $1 million. October 30, 2007
Singer and rock icon Grace Slick of the Jefferson Airplane/Starship is 68 and still very feisty.
On StageTonight Bruce Springsteen & The E Street Band wrap up their two-night stand at the L.A. Sports Arena as Neil Young hits the Nokia Theatre L.A. Live for the first of two nights. Vivian & Beckham Be Kickin'Def Leppard guitarist Vivian Campbell is putting on his cleats again for another charity soccer game. Vivian, who plays for the celebrity-comprised Hollywood United FC team, will take on David Beckham and the Los Angeles Galaxy in a match to benefit the American Red Cross and The Salvation Army in their efforts to help those affected by the California wildfires. Along with ticket sales and donations, the Galaxy also plan to raise money through a silent auction at the stadium. Among the items on the auction block, a Campbell-signed guitar and a "One Flew Over The Cuckoo's Nest" script signed by producer Michael Douglas. The competition takes place this Sunday on the campus of California State University – Dominguez Hills. For more information on Hollywood United or the event, head to MSLnet.com. Grumpy Roddy's WhiningMaybe he just needs more fiber in his diet, but Rod Stewart's sure getting grumpy. The singer says that he no longer writes new songs because he doesn't believe he has anything fresh to contribute — and he feels the same about Paul McCartney, The Rolling Stones and Elton John. Roddy says, "Any of the recent records I hear by those artists, they're just endlessly going over old ground. We've all run out of new things to say." Feel free to count how many of his own songs Roddy's recorded since 1968 compared to how many he's covered of other people's work. Rather pretentious he'd even compare himself to those other boys, isn't it? More Metallica Factoids Than God Ever IntendedAre you tired of losing all those Metallica trivia contests? Then you need the 300-page "The Encyclopaedia Metallica" compiled by Malcolm Dome, who previously penned "Metallica: The Complete Guide To Their Music," and Jerry Ewing, a former editor of Metal Hammer magazine. They loudly proclaim it contains "numerous confessions that have never before been published" and trivia about all things Metallica. Why those two used a quaint Croatian/British spelling of the word "Encyclopedia" for a book about a 100% American band is just one of many "Unexplained Metallica Mysteries," which will no doubt be covered in their next book. Live Miller DVDGuitar ace Steve Miller will release his first concert DVD/CD, "Live From Chicago," on February 5th. The three-disc package will offer two DVDs and a CD documenting a pair of July 2007 shows at the historic Ravinia Festival Park outdoor venue. The first DVD will feature the Steve Miller Band's complete 20 song set, while the second disc will include documentary footage of Miller taking a taxi tour of the historic Chicago blues clubs he came up through in the mid-Sixties. The CD will include 12 performances from the set. Buy Ozzy's Wrecked ATVOzzy Osbourne is auctioning off the ATV that nearly killed him. Don't really want to know if the Ozz-Man has any visible scars, but his 350cc Yamaha Banshee still has a dent in the front bar and a split rear guard from the 2003 accident. It's hoped that the quad bike will raise at least $3,000 for the Sharon Osbourne Colon Cancer Foundation. Julien's is handling the two-day auction at the Gibson Guitar Showroom in Beverly Hills on November 30th and December 1st. Taping The TopWeren't you just asking where ZZ Top is hanging out? Turns out the Little Ol' Band From Texas will be taping their Thursday night performance at the Nokia Theatre in Dallas for a live DVD. Now you know! Pumpkin FactoidsPumpkins are fruits, not vegetables. Pumpkins, gourds, and other varieties of squash are all members of the family Cucurbitacae, which also includes cucumbers, gherkins, and melons. Ever try to carve a gherkin? Pumpkins are indigenous to the Western Hemisphere and were completely unknown in Europe before the time of Columbus. Jack-o-lanterns are an Irish tradition. In Ireland, oversized rutabagas, turnips and potatoes were hollowed-out, carved into faces and illuminated with candles to be used as lanterns during Halloween celebrations. Pumpkins generally weigh from 15-to-30 pounds, although some weigh as much as 600 pounds (too much time spent watching TV, no doubt). October 31, 2007
Singer/guitarist Russ Ballard of Argent fame is 60.
On this day in 1956, Paul McCartney's mother died from breast cancer. Mary McCartney had ignored pains in her chest, dismissing them as symptoms of menopause. By the time she consulted a doctor and underwent surgery, it was too late - the cancer had spread. 14-year-old Paul was devastated and buried his grief in an obsession with music. On this day in 1973, Cheap Trick played their first gig. And yes, they were very, very loud. On this day in 1975, Queen released their signature song, "Bohemian Rhapsody," in Britain. It went on to spend a record eight consecutive weeks at #1 there, then enjoyed a second life on the charts in the Nineties when it was featured in the film "Wayne's World." Scarra-Moosh!! On this day in 1981, "Start Me Up" by The Rolling Stones peaked at #2 on the charts. On this day in 1981, Journey's "Don't Stop Believin'" entered the singles chart as Ozzy Osbourne released his "Diary of a Madman" album. This Sunday night at 9 on 95.5 KLOS, OFF THE RECORD with Joe Benson will feature the music of KISS as well as more of Joe's conversation with Paul Stanley and Peter Criss.
V.H. Extending Semi-ReunionVan Halen's semi-reunion tour was to end with a December 30th performance in Las Vegas, but it looks like they'll be back out next Spring and Summer. Last Sunday the boys postponed a St. Louis show, but the newly announced make-up date — March 30th — indicates that a 2008 leg of the band's successful semi-reunion outing is in the works. So far, spokespeople for the group have declined comment. Elvis Richest Of Rich Dead Guys AgainFormer Beatles John Lennon and George Harrison have made the Top Five of "Forbes" magazine's annual Top-Earning Dead Celebrities listing. Lennon came in second on the list with an estimated revenue of $44 million in the past year, while Harrison ranked fourth with $22 million. As expected, Elvis Presley, who made around $49 million, once again topped the countdown. More Who For YouThree months after The Who wrapped up a year-long tour, singer Roger Daltrey is saying the band will visit Japan and Australia next year. That would mark their first Australian tour in 36 years, and first time ever in Japan. Daltrey and guitarist/songwriter Pete Townshend are the last two surviving members of the foursome, and their most recent tour coincided with the release of their first new studio album in 25 years. Daltrey says, "We don't want to stop now. We don't want those long hiatuses that we used to have. We feel at this time of our lives it's too precious a thing to take liberties with time. When you're young, you've got that time. When you're old, you haven't. You should at least keep the ball rolling." Next Tuesday will see the release of the two-disc DVD "Amazing Journey: The Story Of The Who," a great documentary about their rise, fall and current resurrection. Daltrey participated fully in the project, but has no desire to watch the finished product. "There's no point in me seeing it, I lived it," he said. "I'll watch me, I won't see the film. I'll watch me in the film, and I find that very uncomfortable." New Heaven And HellHeaven And Hell, the Ronnie James Dio-fronted early-Eighties Black Sabbath line-up, will wrap their current tour with a U.K. leg in November and are planning to release new original material next year. "[We] are currently in discussions with various record labels about recording a brand-new studio album in 2008," says bassist Geezer Butler. He also maintains that no plans exist for a Sabbath reunion with original singer Ozzy Osbourne at the helm. Heather Says NoEven though rumors are rampant about a film being made on the life of Heather Mills, the estranged wife of Paul McCartney is denying them. She has also denied claims that she wants Reese Witherspoon to portray her. Since there's still no word if she's also denied marrying for money, you may now return to your regularly scheduled life.
Scary Halloween Factoids"Hallow" is an old word meaning holy, whilst "e'en" is Scottish for evening. Halloween is believed by some to be the time when the dead and other demonic creatures rise to walk the earth once more. Black cats are a symbol of Halloween because it was once believed that souls could travel back into the world of the living in the body of an animal — usually a black cat. The ancient Celtic fire festival called "Samhain" (pronounced "sow-in") is the origin of modern Halloween. It was the "feast of the dead" that marked the close of the harvest and the initiation of the winter season, which continued from Pagan into Christian times. Halloween marks modern witches' New Year's eve. It is a time spent celebrating death, fertility and renewal. The tradition of witches riding their brooms didn't come about just because they were the handiest flight objects available. The broomstick was symbolic of the magical powers of females because it was used in the cleansing of ritual places. It is estimated that between the 15th and 18th centuries two million people were executed for witchcraft, and 80% of that number were women. |
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