 December 11 - 20, 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! December 11, 2007
Drummer Chester Thompson of Genesis is 59. 
On this day in 1957, 22-year-old rock pioneer Jerry Lee Lewis married the daughter of his bass player. The bride, 13-year-old Myra Gale Brown, was also Jerry Lee's second cousin. And, to be perfectly honest, Jerry was still married to his second wife at the time. Oh, those were the days! On this day in 1965, The Yardbirds' groundbreaking song "I'm A Man" peaked at #17 on the charts. On this day in 1972, Genesis made their American concert debut at Boston's Brandeis University. On this day in 1973, a film crew shot footage of Jimmy Page climbing a mountain for the Led Zeppelin film "The Song Remains the Same" behind his home on Loch Ness, Scotland. Page explained, "I wanted to get a full moon in the shot and it came up in December." Truly art for art's sake. On this day in 1977, Bob Seger's song "Night Moves" entered the charts. On this day in 1982, the Pretenders released the song "Back On The Chain Gang" as Pat Benatar's "Shadows Of The Night" peaked at #13 on the charts. 
Oh Lord Did They Rock!By any measure, last night's Ahmet Ertegun Tribute Concert at London's 20,000 seat O2 Arena was an incredible success. The event started with sets from Foreigner, Paul Rodgers and Bill Wyman's Rhythm Kings, among others. Then the highly anticipated one-off Led Zeppelin concert (their first since 1980) began with a drum explosion as the band blasted into "Good Times, Bad Times." The trinity of legendary guitarist Jimmy Page, singer Robert Plant and bassist/keyboardist John Paul Jones — with Jason Bonham on drums — then launched into "Ramble On" and "Black Dog" followed by "In My Time of Dying" (played live for the first time ever), "Trampled Underfoot", "Nobody's Fault But Mine," "No Quarter," "Since I've Been Lovin' You" and "Dazed and Confused," "Stairway To Heaven," "The Song Remains the Same," "Misty Mountain Hop" and "Kashmir" before ending with "Whole Lotta Love" (which Page dedicated to Ertegun) and "Rock And Roll." One of the greatest bands of all time was back in front of its adoring public, playing 16 songs in two-plus hours. All reports, including KLOS' Zep expert Gary Moore's live call-in on my show, have raved on the excellence and power of the performance. Now Page, Plant and Jones must decide whether last night's show truly was Led Zeppelin's triumphant swan song or the start of an extended reunion. The band hasn't toured since 1980 but there is certainly a demand for them since there were 20 million ticket requests for last night's reunion show. Plant, who has long been against more shows, told England's "Sunday Times" that, "it wouldn't be such a bad idea to play together from time to time." He later addressed that comment saying that "somebody else inside me was saying that. Not the bloke from Wolverhampton. The bloke from the land of the ice and snow, the bloke with his shirt unbuttoned down to his waist — and he can shut up. We're not having any more of that. It was great, but I've got to go down the highway now." Which highway is he referring to? Considering that the Zep released eight studio albums in just 10 years and sold more than 300 million records worldwide, you know they don't need to travel any road for money. Let's keep our fingers crossed! Biggest Rock Band/Smallest Smallest RiderAs the story goes, rock stars typically request many weird and interesting things on their contract riders like rare imported alcohol or candy with certain colored pieces removed. So what did the reunited Led Zeppelin require at last night's Ahmet Ertegun Tribute Concert? Promoter Harvey Goldsmith says, "They are much older now obviously and are very low maintenance. They've asked for cups of tea and coffee. We'll have some beer and a bottle of wine for them backstage but they have said they require very little. They are extremely focused and have been rehearsing. They know that a lot of people have been waiting a long time for this gig — it's going to be a great concert." Sons of thunder indeed! No Pool Party At Eddie's TonightVan Halen guitarist Eddie Van Halen can thank the Los Angles Fire Department for saving his home. A water main in his yard broke early yesterday morning, and thousands of gallons of water poured out onto Coldwater Canyon Boulevard. Mud and debris filled Edward's swimming pool, as firefighters placed sandbags around his house. It's unclear as to just how successful they were in protecting the structure, and so far there's no estimate on the extent of the damage. Eddie himself missed the action — he didn't return from the Edmonton stop on his band's current tour until the middle of the morning yesterday. Van Halen will be rocking the Staples Center on Friday. (A Delayed) All Hail MaccaPaul McCartney has finally agreed to be presented with the Outstanding Contribution To Music honor at the February 20th Brit Awards 2008, England's version of the GRAMMYs. The former Beatle turned down the award before, reportedly because he felt it implied that his recording career was at an end. So now that he's more comfortable in his own shoes, he's also expected to perform at the ceremonies, which will be hosted by the ever-reserved Ozzy Osbourne and his wife/manager, Sharon. New Strummer Clash StashFive years after The Clash's Joe Strummer died of heart failure, an extensive collection of his lyrics, notes, drawings and mementos has been discovered by his widow, Lucinda Mellor. The giant stash, which had gone overlooked in a storage room in the couple's farmhouse in Somerset, England, includes several tea chests of Clash-era material, along with numerous suitcases from recent solo tours. Mellor says she hopes to turn the find into a glossy multimedia tribute book to Strummer that would incorporate some unreleased music. Right so! 
Quote Of The DayIt was Coach John Wooden who said: "Winning takes talent, to repeat takes character." Non-Gaseous RoosA team of Australian scientists believe kangaroos hold a key to helping save the environment. The researchers are planning to isolate digestive bacteria from the hoppy animals for transfer to other species. While cows and sheep are known to produce the greenhouse gas methane during digestion, kangaroos release very little. The researchers say if the digestive bacteria from kangaroos could be substituted in cattle and sheep, the amount of harmful methane in the atmosphere could be significantly reduced. Some climate experts believe methane has played a major part in the global warming situation. You can fill in your own punchline here. December 12, 2007
Former Allman Brothers Band guitarist Dickey Betts is 64.
On this day in 1964, "She's Not There" by the Zombies peaked at #2. On this day in 1966, Pink Floyd played their first major concert at London's Royal Albert Hall. The show, like most of their early concerts, was for charity. In this particular instance the charity was a famine relief organization. On this day in 1970, Steven Stills released the song "Love The One You're With" just as Eric Clapton's cover of "After Midnight" peaked at #18 on the charts. On this day in 1974, The Rolling Stones began sessions in Munich for what eventually became their 1976 "Black And Blue" album. On this same day, the band announced the departure of guitarist Mick Taylor, who had replaced founding member Brian Jones five years earlier. When asked of Taylor's replacement, Mick Jagger quipped, "No doubt we can find a brilliant six-foot-three blonde guitarist who can do his own make-up." The "Black And Blue" album was eventually recorded with several guitarists, including Wayne Perkins, Harvey Mandel and one Ron Wood (late of the Faces). Woody, who was neither blonde nor even close to six-foot-three, eventually replaced Taylor. On this day in 1985, keyboardist Ian Stewart died of a heart attack in his doctor's London office at the age of 47. Stewart was a founding member of The Rolling Stones, but their manager Andrew Loog Oldham fired him because he didn't have "the right look." Stewart instead became the band's road manager, their indispensable sideman, best friend and, as Keith Richards has since described him, "the very soul of The Rolling Stones." On this day in 1987, Aerosmith's "Dude (Looks Like A Lady)" peaked at #14 on the charts.
Zep Show Follow-UpNo real news (yet) about a Led Zeppelin reunion tour, but the highly unreliable NME.com reports that "industry sources" said the band has two nights at England's Wembley Stadium on hold for next Summer. (How much do you want to bet that it's the same "industry sources" that said the Zep would be headlining the Bonnaroo Festival in Tennessee in June?) As for Monday night's explosive Zep set at the Ahmet Ertegun Tribute Concert, the backstage scene was flooded. The Beatles and Rolling Stones were represented by Sir Paul McCartney and Sir Mick Jagger. U2's The Edge, Pink Floyd's David Gilmour, guitar god Jeff Beck, Queen's Roger Taylor, Def Leppard's Joe Elliott, Dave Grohl of the Foo Fighters/Nirvana and Steve Winwood of Traffic fame as well as Priscilla and Lisa Marie Presley. Marilyn Manson reportedly threw a hissy diva fit, but the Oasis brothers, Liam and Noel Gallagher, were evidently (and quite surprisingly!) on good behavior. Zep Show Opening ActsIt certainly isn't surprising how the opening acts for the Ahmet Ertegun Tribute Concert got lost in Led Zeppelin mania, but here's the scoop. The hour-long opening set began with Progressive Rock superstars Chris Squire and Alan White (bassist and drummer for Yes) joining Emerson, Lake & Palmer keyboard whiz Keith Emerson to rip through ELP's version of Aaron Copeland's "Fanfare For The Common Man." Then former Rolling Stones bassist Bill Wyman took the stage with his group, The Rhythm Kings, to serve as the house band as Paul Rodgers performed "All Right Now" and Foreigner's Mick Jones (joined by a choir) undertook "I Want To Know What Love Is." Of course all of the acts in the show had been signed by Ahmet Ertegun, the late Atlantic Records co-founder. Fantasy Camp Line-UpAs you'd expect, the line-up of counselors for the 10th anniversary Hollywood edition of Rock & Roll Fantasy Camp includes some big names. Beach Boy Brian Wilson, Pink Floyd's Nick Mason, Micky Dolenz of The Monkees and AC/DC's Cliff Williams will join Yes drummer Alan White, KISS guitarist Bruce Kulick, Cars guitarist Elliot Easton and Bad Company drummer Simon Kirke as instructors from February 15th through the 18th. The camp gives everyday (wealthy) folks the chance to learn from the best and to play with the best. The grand finale is a concert put on by the campers and counselors at the House Of Blues on the Sunset Strip. Registration is open at RockCamp.com. Tyler's Words Of WisdomAerosmith frontman Steven Tyler — who certainly speaks from experience — delivered an anti-drugs statement at the ninth annual Fort Lauderdale Harley-Davidson Bikers Bash in Florida last Friday. "I want to pass the message to kids that it is so easy to smoke a joint, quit school and get into trouble, but that leads to nowhere," said the singer who infamously came close to drugging himself to death many times in the Seventies. Tyler played an acoustic set at the Florida charity event, and even did a duet with Mötley Crüe's Vince Neil on "Chip Away the Stone." Another Concert For BonFirst they held a concert to raise money to buy a statue of AC/DC's legendary frontman Bon Scott. Now they've scheduled a show commemorating the unveiling of the statue! The Aussie Rock Celebration Concert on February 24th in Claremont, Australia will include performances by Rose Tattoo, The Screaming Jets and The Party Boys' all-star line-up featuring original AC/DC singer Dave Evans and original AC/DC bassist Mark Evans. Unfortunately, with Bon being deceased since 1979, he won't be able to make the show. For more info, head to AussieRock.com.au.
Quote Of The DayIt was Benjamin Disraeli who said: "Never apologize for showing feeling. When you do so, you apologize for the truth." Stuck In The LooA Scottish man is laughing off a recent four-day ordeal in a rarely used bathroom. David Leggat was locked in the lavatory after the door jammed and the handle fell off. The "Evening Express" reports Leggat emerged from being trapped looking shaken and grey after managing only three hours of sleep a night amid freezing temperatures. He was discovered by a cleaning lady who had gone to the bathroom to get her equipment. Leggat credited his ability to make do in the "loo" for nearly four days to a survival course he had taken. He was thankful he had a toilet nearby, but said his real regret was that he didn't get trapped behind a bar. December 13, 2007
Guitarist/bow hunter/yahoo Ted Nugent is 59.
On this day in 1961, The Beatles signed their first management contract with Brian Epstein. Neither he nor they knew what they were doing, but together they changed the world. On this day in 1966, Jimi Hendrix recorded "Foxey Lady." And the world was never the same again. On this day in 1974, former Beatle George Harrison met President Gerald Ford at the White House after the president's son Jack invited George to Washington. Soon after, Peter Frampton stopped by for lunch with George, Jack and the President. No one seemed to know who invited Peter, but all had a good time telling road stories. On this day in 1987, Bon Jovi's "Livin' On A Prayer" entered the charts.
YouTube Sans ZepFans going to YouTube to stream the hundreds of video clips of Monday's historic Led Zeppelin reunion concert got a surprise yesterday. Although the Warner Music Group has a licensing deal with YouTube that would allow fans to post WMG-copyrighted material, Led Zeppelin owns the rights to the concert, and the band's management requested the removal of all clips of the event. A fundraising DVD of the historic concert, which served as a tribute to late Atlantic Records co-founder Ahmet Ertegun, will be released next year. Big Time Eagles SalesThe Eagles' "Long Road Out Of Eden" album has been certified triple platinum, signifying U.S. shipments in excess of 3 million units. The double-album set, which after just six weeks is already 2007's fifth-best-selling title, sold roughly 204,000 copies last week to again take the #1 spot on Billboard's Top Country Albums chart as well as retaking #3 on the Billboard 200 chart. The iconic group is now the only band in music history to score a #1 album more than 35 years after releasing their debut record! John's Hair Sold LargeA lock of John Lennon's iconic mop-top sold for $48,000 at an auction in London yesterday. The strands were inside an autographed copy of his book "A Spaniard in the Works," which The Beatle gave to Betty Glasow who worked as the band's hair stylist for the "A Hard Day's Night" and "Help" movies. John's autograph said, "To Betty, Lots of Love and Hair From John Lennon xx." While a George Harrison-signed photograph of the band dedicated to Glasow — inscribed "George 'Dandruff' Harrison" — sold for $13,000, other Beatles collectibles didn't fare quite as well. Maybe if they'd included some DNA, like that found in strands of hair... Plant To BonnarooOne of the many B.S. rumors about a Led Zeppelin reunion tour had the group playing this year's Bonnaroo Festival in Tennessee. However, Zep singer Robert Plant will be performing at the event, just not with the band. He'll be playing with bluegrass singer/superstar Alison Krauss, promoting their excellent collaborative album, "Raising Sand." Along with songs off that release, they'll also perform their versions of some Zep hits like "Black Dog"... versions that will not sound like "Hammers of the Gods!" Petty On PBSThis is a must see! The "Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers Live From Gainesville" concert film will be televised in two parts on January 10th and 17th on PBS. The movie documents the group's 30th anniversary hometown gig in September 2006. Ike Turner R.I.P.Ike Turner, whose role as one of rock's critical architects was overshadowed by his ogre-like image as the man who brutally abused former wife and icon Tina Turner, died at the age of 76 yesterday at his home in suburban San Diego. There was no immediate word on the cause of death. "Rocket 88," Turner's 1951 hit with his band The Kings Of Rhythm, is widely credited as one of the first Rock & Roll songs.
Quote Of The DayIt was Henry Ford who said: "A business that makes nothing but money is a poor kind of business." Dream Holiday DestinationsHealth.com polled its readers to find out what their dream holiday destination would be. Over half of the respondents said a secluded island with their partner. Close to 20% of the respondents said going to parent's or relative's house with the family would be best. Over 15% said a spa get-together with a best girlfriend, followed by reading a good novel (8%). Rounding out the Top Five: visiting a theme park (2%). However, the omission of eating ice cream in a special spot or any mention of Uncle Joe in a "Dream Holiday" situation does cast some serious doubt on the study. December 14, 2007
Nostradamus (physician, astrologer, clairvoyant) would have been 504 and still full of it.
On this day in 1974, the song "Ain't Too Proud To Beg" by The Rolling Stones peaked at #17 on the charts. On this day in 1975, the classic "Lady" by Styx entered the singles charts. On this day in 1999, Paul McCartney, along with David Gilmour guitarist of Pink Floyd and drummer Ian Paice of Deep Purple, performed at the Cavern Club for the first time since his days with The Beatles. The concert was broadcast live over the Internet and beat all previous audience records. Trust me, The Beatles songs were the highlight. On this day in 2006, Ahmet Ertegun, who helped define American music as the founder of Atlantic Records while nurturing talent like Ray Charles, Aretha Franklin, John Coltrane, Led Zeppelin, The Rolling Stones and Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young, died at the age of 83. Ertegun suffered a head injury when he fell at the October 29th Rolling Stones Beacon Theater concert in New York. He spent weeks comatose in a hospital before finally succumbing.  This Sunday night at 9 on 95.5 KLOS, OFF THE RECORD with Joe Benson will feature music of the Eagles as well as brand new conversation with Don Henley.
On Stage TonightVan Halen returns to the Staples Center tonight. Hall Of Fame Picks Five MoreAs should have happened years ago, John Mellencamp finally has been selected for induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. Yesterday's announcement of the Class of 2008 also included The Ventures (surf guitar music!), Leonard Cohen, The Dave Clark Five and the ever-evolving Madonna. A panel of 600 anonymous industry figures (the kind that start Led Zeppelin reunion tour rumors) chose those five acts to be inducted at this year's annual ceremony on March 10th in New York. If your fave artist hasn't yet been honored by the East Coast gallery of Hall voters, just remember how many years it took to induct Mellencamp, Bob Seger, Lynyrd Skynyrd and Black Sabbath into the Hall where they belonged. Two Trios Top Tours TallyTwo trios topped the bucks up tours list this year! The Police topped the Billboard Boxscore list of highest grossing tours of 2007, pulling in $212 million with their ongoing reunion tour. Genesis' "Turn It On Again" reunion tour came in second with earnings of $129 million from that trio's limited 46-show North American and European run. Rod Stewart ranked #5 by raking in $70 million while Roger Waters' smaller jaunt brought in $53.2 million to put him in seventh place. Rush Going Out AgainAfter a fitful Winter's rest, Rush will kick off another North American leg of their Snakes And Arrows World Tour in March. This time they'll hit over 40 cities throughout the U.S. and Canada, including some where the trio hasn't performed in over a decade. The full itinerary will be unveiled in mid-January. By the way, the incredible "Malignant Narcissism" from "Snakes & Arrows" has been nominated for a GRAMMY Award in the Best Rock Instrumental Performance category. Good luck guys! Bianca BouncedMick Jagger's first wife, Bianca Jagger, has been evicted from the New York apartment she has rented for over 20 years in retaliation for a 2003 legal dispute with her landlord over alleged toxic mold. The landlord argues that the Upper East Side apartment was not Jagger's primary residence, a requirement of her rent-stabilized lease. Bianca argues that he's as toxic as the mold. Oh, where have all the good times gone? Queen + Paul Single UpdateOriginally issued as a download on December 1st to commemorate World AIDS Day, a freshly remixed version of Queen + Paul Rodgers' "Say It's Not True" will be sold as a CD single on December 31st. Profits from the release will benefit former South African president Nelson Mandela's 46664 charity, which promotes awareness and prevention of HIV and AIDS. The single will come as an enhanced CD release carrying the full video shown at the recent Johannesburg 46664 concert. While not physically available until December 31st, the CD can be pre-ordered from http:www.queenonline.com starting Monday.
Thought For The WeekendIt was "The Hitchhiker's Guide To The Galaxy" author Douglas Adams who said: "I may not have gone where I intended to go, but I think I have ended up where I intended to be." Who Do You TrustIn a new Gallup poll ranking ethics and honesty of various professions, Americans have again put nurses and teachers at the top while lobbyists and car salesmen are dead last. More than 80% of the respondents ranked nurses as highly ethical and honest, while elementary school teachers win the support of 75% of the public. Pharmacists are inherently trusted by 70% of Americans, while military officers and medical doctors are perceived as honest by about two-thirds. Clergy, police and judges are thought to be ethical and honest by only half the population, while day care providers outrank bankers, 44% to 35%. Auto mechanics, nursing home operators and journalists are perceived as ethical by only about 25% of citizens. Politicians, lawyers and business executives rank only in the teens, while members of Congress are considered honest by only 9% of Americans. Advertising people, car salesmen and lobbyists are at the very bottom, seen as ethical by only about 5% of the public. December 15, 2007
Drummer Dave Clark of the Dave Clark 5 is 65 and no longer drumming.
On this day in 1962, bassist Bill Wyman made his live debut with The Rolling Stones at Putney's Church Hall in London. On this day in 1966, The Beatles recorded the trumpets and cellos for "Strawberry Fields Forever" at Abbey Road studios. On this day in 1969, John Lennon and Yoko Ono and their Plastic Ono Band — including special guests Eric Clapton, Keith Moon and George Harrison — performed at a benefit for UNICEF at London's Lyceum Theater. On this day in 1970, George Harrison's "All Things Must Pass" album was released. On this day in 1971, the first of The Rolling Stones' "Hot Rocks" compilations was released. On this day in 1973, Genesis made their first appearance on the U.S. charts with the album "Selling England By The Pound." It was the band's fourth release, but their first in America. Led by Peter Gabriel, they set the standard for "art rock/progressive rock" groups of the time. On this day in 1979, Fleetwood Mac's song "Sara" entered the charts as "Take The Long Way Home" by Supertramp peaked at #10 and John Cougar's "I Need A Lover" topped out at #28. On this day in 1984, "Pride (In The Name Of Love)" by U2 peaked at #33 on the charts. December 16, 2007
Singer/guitarist Billy Gibbons of ZZ Top is 58.
On this day in 1966, the Jimi Hendrix Experience released their first single, "Hey Joe," in England. On this day in 1972, the song "And You And I (Part II)" by Yes peaked at #42 on the charts. On this day in 1984, ZZ Top bassist Dusty Hill was accidentally shot in the stomach when a gun he carried in his boot went off as his girlfriend helped him remove his foot wear. He recovered after surgery. On this day in 1989, Bon Jovi's "Living In Sin" peaked at #9 on the singles chart. December 17, 2007
Vocalist Paul Rodgers of Free and Bad Company is 58.
On this day in 1973, Fleetwood Mac's manager, Clifford Davis, took advantage of the group's first break from touring and recording by stealing their name and sending the fake Fleetwood Mac out on tour. When Mick Fleetwood found out what was happening, he sued Davis and assumed management of the band himself. On this day in 1977, Fleetwood Mac's "You Make Loving Fun" peaked at #9 on the charts. On this day in 1982, The Who performed one of their first farewell concerts at Toronto's Maple Leaf Gardens. Many of us gullible fans purchased the concert on pay-per-view. Of course, 20 years later The Who occasionally still play gigs near you. On this day in 1983, the Pretenders released the song "Middle of the Road." It eventually topped out at #19 on the charts. On this day in 1986, The Doobie Brothers reunited for the first time. They got along so well during the benefit in Palo Alto, a reunion tour followed and they've been rockin' down the highway ever since.
Miller's Firemen GuitarsSteve Miller is selling two autographed, custom-painted/custom built guitars to benefit the firefighters who battled the 40,000 acre Castle Rock forest fire near Steve's Ketchum, Idaho home this past August. The one-of-a-kind John Bolin-designed Stratocasters, which Miller played during a November 17th concert, are currently listed on eBay and will go up for auction on December 25th if the minimum bids aren't met. Allmans Peaking (Somewhere)OK, so this year The Allman Brothers Band will be jamming through its annual New York City marathon between May 5th and 28th. But why are the boys holding back on announcing the Beacon Theater — their venue of choice for the past 137 years — as the venue? Do you think they're trying to get a better deal like USC did at the Coliseum? Covering The Elvis AngleBruce Springsteen and his wife Patti Scialfa, as well as Aerosmith's Joe Perry, are among the artists featured on the official soundtrack album to the Elvis Presley documentary "Elvis Viva Las Vegas." Due out on January 2nd, the soundtrack includes Bruce's version of "Viva Las Vegas," Perry's cover of "Mystery Train" with country singer Toby Keith, and Scialfa's own song, "Looking for Elvis." John, Paul, Tom & RingoJohn Lennon's official last televised interview will finally be released on DVD on April 1st. The two-disc set, "The Tomorrow Show With Tom Snyder: John, Paul, Tom and Ringo," will feature Lennon's April 25, 1975 discussion with famed talk-show host Snyder, plus additional interviews with Ringo Starr and Paul McCartney. Soundtrackin' Eddie Goes Back To WorkPearl Jam's Eddie Vedder will put his soundtrack skills back to work, as he and John Legend have agreed to contribute tracks to an upcoming documentary miniseries based on Howard Zinn's "A People's History Of The United States." Vedder, who earlier this Fall released a solo soundtrack for Sean Penn's "Into The Wild," is a noted longtime Zinn supporter. Fogelberg R.I.P.Sad to hear that Dan Fogelberg died Sunday at his home in Maine after a three year battle with prostate cancer. He was 56. Rest in peace.
Quote Of The DayIt was Martin Luther King Jr. who said: "Nothing in the world is more dangerous than sincere ignorance and conscientious stupidity." December 18, 2007
Chas Chandler, bassist for the Animals and Jimi Hendrix's original manager would have been 69.
On this day in 1971, 36-year-old rock icon/hellraiser Jerry Lee Lewis divorced his 27-year-old second cousin, Myra Gale Brown after 14 years of marriage. At least they were still family. On this day in 1975, Rod Stewart announced that he was leaving the Faces for a solo career. On this day in 1976, Steve Miller's song "Fly Like An Eagle" entered the charts. On this day in 1976, the Eagles' soon-to-be #1 hit "New Kid in Town" entered the charts as their classic "Hotel California" album was released. On this day in 1978, Led Zeppelin finished recording their last studio album, "In Through the Out Door."
On Stage TonightVan Halen begins their invasion of Orange County tonight at the Honda Center. Used Zep Tix Sell BigMoney, money, money... and this story's 100% true! Led Zeppelin fans who weren't able to score tickets for the band's reunion show at London's O2 Arena last Monday are now buying ticket stubs and cut-off wristbands from the show on eBay for as much as $250 each. That's the same price 18,000 lucky lottery winners spent to actually see the Zep perform live! Jason Speaks UpLed Zeppelin drummer Jason Bonham — son of the Zep's original drummer, the late John Bonham — has provided an interesting insight into the band's potential reunion tour. He said, "It's been very overwhelming for me. I suddenly realized what I did. It was quite an emotional thing. Over the last five days really, the acceptance of what happened but also the thought of maybe that is it, maybe that's it, don't ask for any more, don't be greedy. If you could've asked for anything, wouldn't it have been, what a great way to do a one-off show... at that point, at that level that everyone was talking about." So... just like us, he's waiting on Robert Plant to make the final decision. But he sure sounds completely comfortable just letting it be, doesn't he? Coop's Youth CenterAlice Cooper was on hand at Saturday's dedication ceremony for The Rock, a music-themed youth center set for construction at Phoenix's Grand Canyon University. The $7 million project, which is being spearheaded by Cooper's Christian nonprofit Solid Rock Foundation, will feature a concert hall and recording studio as well as basketball courts, rock-climbing walls and other facilities. The ever eloquent Alice said, "I hope that in years to come, The Rock will be the first of many such teen centers in Arizona and around the country." Right so! Macca's Paris Show RevealedA new Paul McCartney special, "Live At The Olympia," will premiere Sunday on A&E. The one-hour show captures a portion of Macca's October 22nd concert at the famous Paris music hall. The setlist includes a few songs from his "Memory Almost Full" album as well as Beatles' tunes and other assorted solo material. Rodger's New Year's Eve For YouA 10 hour free webcast of former Bad Company/Free singer Paul Rodgers' New Year's Eve concert at the El Dorado Casino in Reno will start at 3pm on December 31st. Along with backstage footage and interviews, the actual concert itself will start about 9:30pm. EQ.tv is the place to check it out.
 Unc's annual festival is going to rock on KLOS at 6pm and 9pm Christmas Eve! Three hours of your favorite Classic Rock & Roll Christmas songs, conversations, stories and rare Nuggets — songs from John Lennon, Boston, Bruce Springsteen, the Eagles, U2, Camp Freddy, The Black Crowes and Stevie Nicks, among many others. Check out this year's playlist! Quote Of The DayIt was W. Edwards Deming who said: "It is not enough to do your best; you must know what to do, and then do your best." December 19, 2007
Alvin Lee, speed guitarist and vocalist for Ten Years After, is 63.
On this day in 1955, Carl Perkins recorded his signature hit "Blue Suede Shoes" at Sun Studios in Memphis, Tennessee. On this day in 1964, the Fab Four's "Beatles for Sale" album spent its first week at #1 on the U.K. charts. To accomplish that, it knocked The Beatles' "A Hard Day's Night" off the top spot, where that album had spent the prior 21 weeks. On this day in 1970, the much-praised "All Things Must Pass" from George Harrison entered the charts. The triple album is still considered by many to be his best solo work. On this day in 1974, during his only solo world tour, former Beatle George Harrison performed the first of two nights at Madison Square Garden. On this day in 1975, guitarist Ron Wood officially joined The Rolling Stones. On this day in 1981, Journey's "Don't Stop Believin'" peaked at #9 on the charts. On this day in 1993, Michael Clarke, The Byrds' original drummer, died of liver failure at the age of 49. This Sunday night at 9 on 95.5 KLOS, OFF THE RECORD with Joe Benson will feature a special Christmas show with rockin' Holiday music and interviews with Pat Benatar & Neil Giraldo, John Lennon, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Moody Blues, REO Speedwagon, Rush, Brian Setzer, Styx and the Trans Siberian Orchestra.
Four Good Ones In Stone's Top 50Bruce Springsteen & The E Street Band's latest album, "Magic," has taken second place in "Rolling Stone" magazine's Top 50 Albums of 2007 list. The magazine compares the album to Bruce's 1978 "Darkness On The Edge Of Town" and 1982 solo debut "Nebraska." John Fogerty's "Revival" came in at #11, Paul McCartney's "Memory Almost Full" has the #22 spot, and Robert Plant & Alison Krause's "Raising Sand" came in at #24. Stills Fighting CancerDuring a segment remembering singer/songwriter Dan Fogelberg on Monday's "Larry King Live," Graham Nash revealed that bandmate Stephen Stills has been diagnosed with prostrate cancer. Fogelberg passed away of the same disease on Sunday after a three-year battle. Nash says that — unlike Fogelberg — Stills caught his cancer at an early stage and will undergo a surgical procedure on January 3rd, which also happens to be Stills' 63rd birthday. Slash Vs. Bill GatesThis sounds like fun! Slash is going to battle Microsoft founder Bill Gates on Guitar Hero III at January's Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas. But the legendary guitarist says that, so far, he really stinks at the game. "I plugged it in and could not coordinate to play it to save my life... regardless of whether he (Gates) can play or not, I have to be able to play this thing. It's sort of embarrassing that I can't play it now. Anyway, I'm working on it. I suck at this point." Practice Slash, practice! New Old Doors ComingThe next in the archival series of Doors concert albums, "Live in Pittsburgh 1970," has been set for a March 4th release. Recorded during the band's final U.S. tour, the album features performances of 16 songs. In addition, ANOTHER single-CD Doors compilation called "The Future Starts Here" will be issued on January 29th. You gotta admit that there sure is a lot of compiling in the Doors' camp!
Quote Of The DayIt was English humorist P.G. Wodehouse who said: "The trouble with cats is that they've got no tact." Party Stressing
Nearly three out of four Americans "stress out" about what to wear to at least one holiday party, according to a survey commissioned by Sears, Roebuck and Co. Among the findings: December 20, 2007
Former KISS drummer Peter Criss is 62.
On this day in 1957, Elvis Presley was drafted into the U.S. Army. On this day in 1967, singer Ian Anderson and bassist Glen Cornick left the John Evan Band to join up with guitarist Mick Abraham and drummer Clive Bunker. At first the band changed their name at every gig because they played so poorly. Later, Anderson was at the home of their manager, Terry Ellis, when he spotted a book by the 18th century agriculturist/author Jethro Tull. The band has been using that name ever since. On this day in 1969, The Rolling Stones' classic album "Let It Bleed" knocked The Beatles' "Abbey Road" off the top of the British album charts. "Abbey Road" returned to the #1 position the following week. On this day in 1973, singer/songwriter Bobby Darin died of heart failure while having his second open-heart surgery in two years. He was only 37. On this day in 1975, guitarist Joe Walsh replaced Bernie Leadon in the Eagles. Walsh's songwriting, musicality and guitar technique were a boost to the band's sound, and his weird-ass sense of humor added a welcome new wrinkle to the Eagles' hip Southern California countenance. On this day in 1980, Pat Benatar's song "Hit Me With Your Best Shot" peaked at #9 on the charts. This Sunday night at 9 on 95.5 KLOS, OFF THE RECORD with Joe Benson will feature a special Christmas show with rockin' Holiday music and interviews with Pat Benatar & Neil Giraldo, John Lennon, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Moody Blues, REO Speedwagon, Rush, Brian Setzer, Styx and the Trans Siberian Orchestra.
On Stage TonightVan Halen wraps up their invasion of Orange County tonight at the Honda Center. GRAMMY Hall InducteesThe GRAMMY Hall Of Fame is adding 70 recordings to its list of classic titles. This year's inductees — which bring the total of titles in the Hall to 798 — span nine decades representing everything from classical and show tunes to blues, jazz and Rock & Roll. The new entries include the Pink Floyd album "The Wall," the Eagles song "Hotel California," The Beatles' song "Help!," The Police's song "Roxanne," Lynyrd Skynyrd's song "Free Bird," the Love album "Forever Changes" and the classic reggae "The Harder They Come" soundtrack album featuring Jimmy Cliff with Toots & The Maytals. Everybody I Shot Is DeadI say that "Everybody I Shot Is Dead" is undoubtedly the greatest title ever for a photographic compilation! Former rock photographer Deborah Chesher — who was most prolific from 1974 through 1979 — has released a book featuring both black & white and color photographs of 48 rock stars like Harry Nilsson, Beach Boy Dennis Wilson, T Rex's Marc Bolan, George Harrison, Little Feat's Lowell George and teen idol Rick Nelson. Of course, some living legends make the cut too like Van Morrison, Steve Miller, Joni Mitchell, Ron Wood, Tom Waits, the Eagles, Chuck Berry and Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young. For more info, head to http://Cheshercat.com. Tapping Into That 60 Minutes LibraryCall it corporate synergy or just good use of resources, but Vh1 Classic and "60 Minutes" have teamed up for a new series called "Classic 60 Minutes." Each half-hour episode will feature CBS News correspondent Lara Logan showcasing expanded "60 Minutes" interviews, including never-before-seen footage and conversations. The first episode, focusing on Eric Clapton, airs January 6th on Vh1 Classic. Future episodes will feature Bruce Springsteen, Elton John, Billy Joel, Sting, the Eagles, Ray Charles and Tina Turner. Roadie Documentary Loading InWord is that a five-part documentary series that was filmed last summer during Rush's "Snakes & Arrows" tour is now set for release after the first of the year. Each hour-long episode of "Backstage Secrets" follows a different member of the band's road crew during a typical day. Those roadies include the lighting director, sound guys, instrument techies, video guys and a production manager. You didn't really think they'd focus on how backstage passes are obtained, did you? An Unofficial Plant Bio"Robert Plant: Led Zeppelin, Jimmy Page & the Solo Years," a new unofficial biography of Led Zeppelin frontman Robert Plant, will hit shelves on February 28th. The Neil Daniels-penned book offers an in-depth look at the singer's life, from his childhood on through to this month's Zeppelin reunion at the Ahmet Ertegun Tribute concert. Too late for Christmas, maybe just in time for a concert tour of some sort.
 Unc's annual festival is going to rock on KLOS at 6pm and 9pm Christmas Eve! Three hours of your favorite Classic Rock & Roll Christmas songs, conversations, stories and rare Nuggets — songs from John Lennon, Boston, Bruce Springsteen, the Eagles, U2, Camp Freddy, The Black Crowes and Stevie Nicks, among many others. Check out this year's playlist! Xmas FactoidsOver 16% of the people who decorate their yards and houses spend more than six hours each year putting up the decorations. The first documentation of decorating a Christmas tree was in 1604 in Strasburg, Germany. Decorating Christmas trees became a tradition in the U.S in the mid-1800's and has evolved over the subsequent 150 year period into the industry we know today. In 1851, Mark Carr hauled two sleds loaded with trees from the Catskills to the streets of New York City and opened the first retail tree lot in the U.S. Until fairly recently, all Christmas trees came from forests, not farms. It takes up to 12 years to grow a Christmas tree of average retail height, which is 6-7 feet. The tallest living Christmas tree on the North American continent is believed to be the 161-foot, 120-year-old Grand fir on Lake Coeur d'Alene in North Idaho. Happy Holidays to all!! |
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