 July 21 - 31, 2008These 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! July 21, 2008
Yusuf Islam aka Cat Stevens is 60. 
On this day in 1979, Robert Palmer released "Bad Case Of Loving You" and The Knack's "My Sharona" entered the charts as "I Want You To Want Me" by Cheap Trick peaked at #7. On this day in 1980, AC/DC's "Back In Black" album was released. On this day in 1986, The Police began trying to record an album that they never came close to finishing. When Sting opted for his solo career instead of working with Stewart Copeland and Andy Summers, the trio released a greatest hits package called "Every Breath You Take," then called it a day. 
Macca Closes The Shea He OpenedThanks to Billy Joel, Paul McCartney not only launched Shea Stadium's concert history, he also helped bring it to a close. The former Beatle, The Who's Roger Daltrey, Aerosmith's Steven Tyler and country superstar Garth Brooks all performed at various times in Billy's final "Double Play At Shea" concert last Friday night. That concert was the last to be held at the famed New York City ballpark, which will be torn down this Fall after the Mets finish their 2008 season. The last song at Shea was sung by the guy who had done the first song ever played in concert at the venue: this time, Paul McCartney performed "Let It Be" on piano with Billy Joel sitting on top of the piano singing backup. How cool was that!?! Ripping Off Rhyming SimonHall Of Famer Paul Simon has filed a copyright infringement suit against the Japanese Rhythm Watch Company and its American branch, Rhythm USA, claiming they are using the Simon & Garfunkel song "Bridge Over Troubled Water" without permission. Rhythm's "Grand Nostalgia Clock" plays a chimed version of one of six tunes, including the duo's 1970 hit, at the top of each hour — but they bypassed paying the licensing fee of over $1 million. In his suit, the renowned songwriter also says the company has made more than $5 million in profits from sales of timepieces that incorporate his song. Jovi Selling Those TixAccording to "Billboard" magazine's Boxscore chart midyear report, Bon Jovi was the top-grossing live act in the world for the first half of 2008. The New Jersey boys earned about $112.4 million in tour revenue between November 14, 2007, and May 13, 2008. The Spice Girls placed second on the list with $70 million. The Police came in third for this time period, after topping all touring charts in 2007 and billing $359 million to date — the third-highest-grossing tour of all time). Bruce Springsteen & The E Street Band and Van Halen were #6 and #7, earning $42 million and $40.2 million respectively. U2's Spider-ManWhen they're on a roll, there's no stopping those U2 boys! Sure the Irish lads will be releasing their new, as-yet-untitled new album this October. But frontman Bono and guitar ace The Edge have written another 18 tracks for "Spider-Man: The Musical," a $25 million production due to open in New York in October of next year. And it sure sounds like they'll release another U2 album based on their Spider-Man musical around that time. Never a master of understatement, Bono says, "If we pull off what we're trying, it will be something the likes of which no one has seen or heard. It should be a hallucinogenic experience for theatre-goers... The myth of the arachnid and the elasticity of these characters, you can turn theatre upside down." Tony Award winner Julie Taymor, who previously directed the "Lion King" musical and "Across The Universe," the cinematic musical based on Beatles songs, is overseeing the project. Judgmental GeneKISS bassist/singer Gene Simmons has signed on to be a judge on the upcoming CBS reality series "Jingles." The show, which will premiere later this year, will challenge contestants to compose jingles for various items, events and situations. Simmons, with the help of an advisory panel, will choose which participants are eliminated. Actually sounds right in character for Gene, doesn't it? Adler BustedEarly last Friday in Los Angeles, former Guns N' Roses drummer Steven Adler was charged with possession of narcotics and being under the influence, among other things. Adler, who has struggled with substance abuse for most of his adult life, is participating in the second season of VH1's "Celebrity Rehab With Dr. Drew," and was reportedly scheduled to appear in a spin-off series called "Sober Living." 
Quote Of The DayIt was Dave Barry who said: "You can only be young once. But you can always be immature." Bumming With The JobWhile unemployment numbers are the highest they've been in years, the majority of American workers still on the job are running on empty. A new CareerBuilder.com survey says that 78% of those polled feel burned out at work. A full 46% say their workload has increased over the last six months and 45% describe their workload as "heavy" or "too heavy," while 23% report that they are dissatisfied with their current work/life balance. July 22, 2008
Pianist/singer Rick Davies of Supertramp is 64.
On this day in 1967, The Beatles' "All You Need Is Love" entered the charts as The Doors hit #1 with "Light My Fire." On this day in 1972, "Take It Easy" by the Eagles peaked at #12 as "Rock & Roll Part 2" by Gary Glitter entered the charts. On this day in 1978, Bob Seger's "Still The Same" peaked at #4 as Bruce Springsteen's "Prove It All Night" topped out at #33 on the charts.
On Stage TonightThe Stray Cats will be ripping it up at the Pacific Amphitheatre at the same time that Ray Davies will be playing The Grove Of Anaheim tonight. (Semi-Official) New AC/DCThey say that sometime today this info will be official. The highly anticipated new AC/DC album will be called "Dirty Rhythm," it will be released on October 28th and be sold exclusively through Wal-Mart Stores — just like the Eagles' latest. The first single, "Run Away From Black Ice," will be released on August 24th and the Aussie band's extensive world tour will kick off in New York City on January 1, 2009. Rock on! New/Old/New U2U2's 1983 landmark live album, "Under A Blood Red Sky," has been remastered and will be reissued on September 23rd as a single CD and in a CD/DVD package. The re-release will precede the band's 12th studio effort, which is now due in November. Nothing else official about that new album yet, but I can tell you that some people think that it will be called "No Line On The Horizon." Stay tuned! Another Lennon MovieThe U.K. Film Council has just approved funding for a movie tentatively titled "Nowhere Boy." Focusing on John Lennon's early life, the film is based on a 2007 memoir by the late Beatles' half sister, Julia Baird. Matt Greenhalgh, who wrote the recent award-winning biopic "Control," is working up the script. R.I.P. Steven Tyler's MomCondolences to Aerosmith singer Steven Tyler and his family. His 84-year-old mom, Susan Ray Tallarico, passed away on July 14th in a New Hampshire retirement community. When Steven was a boy, she helped run the family-owned Trow-Rico Lodge, a Summer resort in Sunapee, NH where Tyler says he developed his love of music and performing.
Quote Of The DayIt was Coach John Wooden who said: "It isn't what you do, but how you do it." July 23, 2008
British movie star David "Rock On" Essex is 61.
On this day in 1977, Foreigner released the song "Cold As Ice" as Fleetwood Mac's "Don't Stop" entered the charts. On this day in 1977, Led Zeppelin's manager and drummer, Peter Grant and John Bonham, as well as three of their security guards were arrested in Oakland, California for severely beating three of promoter Bill Graham's employees after a concert in that city. On this day in 1979, keyboard player Keith Godchaux of the Grateful Dead died of complications from head injuries suffered in a car accident two days earlier. Keith and his wife Donna had played with the Dead since 1972.
On Stage TonightSteely Dan will be playing the Nokia Theatre LA Live tonight. Rock For MS TonightRock for MS is taking place at the Key Club in Hollywood tonight. This very special live auction of Rock & Roll photography celebrating art, music and compassion features the work of 35 of the best photographers ever — including Robert Altman, Henry Diltz, Robert Knight, Gered Mankowitz, Jim Marshall and Neil Preston. You can hear my complete interview about the event with Jim Marshall — one of the world's most renowned rock music photographers and the 2004 winner of a Lifetime Achievement Lucie Award — at http://955klos.com/Article.asp?id=679175. Check out the complete details (and see some of the many photographs up for sale) at http://msfriends.org. This is an absolutely amazing collection of artists and art raising money for a great cause — I hope to see you there tonight! Heads Up On The DanThose lucky souls seeing Steely Dan at the Nokia Theatre LA Live tonight or the Honda Center in Anaheim on August 4th will be hearing some songs that the band hasn't performed in years. Bassist Walter Becker has begun singing a few tunes that frontman Donald Fagen either lost interest in singing or didn't sing originally. Walter says that allows the Dan to "revisit songs like 'Daddy Don't Live In That New York City No More' or 'Monkey In Your Soul' live." Sounds good to me! Live (Virtual) Motley For FreeAugust 1st is the day that Motley Crue will be doing a live global concert available online for free. They'll actually be playing at the Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas, but to see them online you need to pick up your free virtual tickets right now at DeepRockDrive.com. Ozzy's Gonna RecordOzzy Osbourne says he'll record a new album after his appearances at Calgary's Monsters of Rock festival on July 26th and Ozzfest 2008 in Dallas on August 9th. Wonder if those sessions will be worked into his family's variety show — "The Osbournes: Loud and Dangerous" — set to debut on TV this Fall? All Hail REOThe Des Moines, Iowa chapter of the National Weather Service has presented REO Speedwagon frontman Kevin Cronin with a special certificate of recognition for the band's flood-relief efforts. REO's July 16th Ridin' The Storm Out benefit concert in Altoona, Iowa raised more than $550,000 for area flood victims. Right so! Who's The Intern?Word is that Frances Bean Cobain, daughter of Kurt Cobain and Courtney Love, is interning at "Rolling Stone" this Summer. Frances turns 16 next month and a rep for the magazine says that they are "thrilled" to have her on board.
Quote Of The DayIt was Katherine Whitehorn who said: "The easiest way for your children to learn about money is for you not to have any." Dentist Yes/House Cleaning NoDoes this sound like you? A poll by iVillage.com's new Momtourage Web site has found that 27% of the 1,000+ respondents would rather have their teeth drilled than clean their homes. In fact, a full one in ten of those surveyed say they would rather be chewed out by their boss than have to tidy up their house. July 24, 2008
On this day in 1971, "Wild Horses" by The Rolling Stones peaked at #28 on the charts. On this day in 1976, "Take The Money And Run" by the Steve Miller Band peaked at #11 as Thin Lizzy's "The Boys Are Back In Town" topped out at #12 on the charts. On this day in 1982, Fleetwood Mac's "Hold Me" peaked at #4 on the charts. On this day in 1987, The Grateful Dead's "Touch Of Grey" entered the charts.  This Sunday night at 9 on 95.5 KLOS, OFF THE RECORD with Joe Benson will feature the music of the Scorpions as well as Joe's brand new conversation with the entire band.
The Mac Is On (Next Year)It's not new news to you or me, but now it's official. Fleetwood Mac will tour next year. Guitarist/singer Lindsey Buckingham has also confirmed that they're considering a return to the studio, saying that he, Stevie Nicks, John McVie and Mick Fleetwood all feel that they "would make a better album if we went out and hung out together first on the road." Unfortunately, Sheryl Crow won't be joining the Mac on the road. While there was talk earlier this year of such a collaboration, Buckingham says the matter "kinda got out of hand," though there were discussions between the band and Crow. Ultimately, he says, the prospect "just kind of lost its momentum." Too bad! It Must Be Ozzy TimeWith only two Ozzy Osbourne stories posted in the first three days this week, his publicist needed to get another blurb out as soon as possible to save his or her job! Thus we have the nominations for "Classic Rock" magazine's annual Classic Rock Roll Of Honor awards. It turns out that the Ozz-man will be crowned the U.K. rag's Living Legend at the November 3rd ceremony in London — hurrah! Other Roll Of Honor nominees include Def Leppard and Whitesnake up for the Album of the Year, Band of the Year and together for Event of the Year for their tour. Led Zeppelin are also in the running for Band of the Year, as well as DVD of the Year and Event of the Year for their reunion gig last December. Wonder what Ozzy's publicist will come up with next? Pol's Boss Tix ScamAfter loud allegations of a scam surfaced, United States Senator Frank Lautenberg suddenly withdrew his request for 40 premium tickets to Sunday's Bruce Springsteen concert in East Rutherford, New Jersey. The controversy first arose when the show's promoters questioned a special arrangement that allowed the New Jersey politician to purchase the premium seats at a face value of $108 each, only to give them to people paying $1,500 each to attend a fundraiser. As you'd expect, Mr. Springsteen didn't know a thing about it. GRAMMY Charities/eBayA limited-edition print of John Lennon's handwritten lyrics to "Lucy In The Sky With Diamonds" and an Epiphone Hummingbird guitar signed by the Eagles' Joe Walsh are among the items up for auction as part of a new GRAMMY Charities eBay auction, running now through July 31st. Memorabilia from The Beatles, Ringo Starr, former Doobie Brothers/Steely Dan singer Michael McDonald, Crosby, Stills & Nash are also up for sale. New Pretenders One Song At A TimeLeading up to it's September 23rd release, Chrissie Hynde will roll out The Pretenders new album, "Break Up The Concrete," one song per week online. The excellent first track, "Boots Of Chinese Plastic," is available for free right now at http://thepretenders.com. Chrissie actually recorded the album in just 10 days with a new backing band that included legendary drummer Jim Keltner. However, founding drummer Martin Chambers will be back with the group for the next Pretenders show on July 30th in London... unless he ticks Chrissie off again.
Quote Of The DayIt was Steven Wright who said: "24 hours in a day; 24 bottles in a case of beer. Coincidence? I think not." July 25, 2008
Drummer Jim McCarty of The Yardbirds is 65.
On this day in 1964, The Beatles' album "A Hard Day's Night hit #1 on the charts. On this day in 1965, Bob Dylan went electric at the Newport Folk Festival and played a few tunes he had just recorded. Outraged folkies booed him off the stage and accused him of becoming a "sellout." There was so much to be outraged by in 1965. On this day in 1966, The Rolling Stones played their last American concert with founding guitarist Brian Jones. Although Brian didn't really know where he was, San Francisco was the scene. On this day in 1966, Eric Clapton played the lead guitar on his friend George Harrison's song "While My Guitar Gently Weeps." The song — a true classic — was eventually released on The Beatles "White Album." On this day in 1969 at Bill Graham's Fillmore East, Neil Young appeared onstage with Crosby, Stills & Nash for the first time. On this same day in 1969, Led Zeppelin played in Milwaukee at the cleverly named Midwest Rock Festival. Guitar god Eric Clapton, who performed with Blind Faith the next day, caught the set by fellow former-Yardbird guitarist Jimmy Page's new band. Eric's observation: "They were very loud. I thought it was unnecessarily loud. I liked some of it; I really did like some of it. But a lot of it was just too much. They overemphasized whatever point they were making, I thought." Being a member of Cream, E.C. evidently never saw the original "overemphasized" band. On this day in 1970, Chicago released the song "25 Or 6 To 4" as Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young's "Teach Your Children" peaked at #16 and Neil Young & Crazy Horse's "Cinnamon Girl" topped out at #55 on the charts. Neil was a busy guy back in 1970. On this day in 1981, Stevie Nicks released "Stop Draggin' My Heart Around."
U2 Bubbling UnderWord from Cadiz, Spain is that the central part of the city was shut down Wednesday and Thursday nights to facilitate the shooting of a U2 video. NLTH Ltd. (does that stand for "No Line On The Horizon" – the rumored title of the new album?) was issued a permit to allow a 19-person crew to work between 9pm and 4am, but the band themselves weren't expected to be present. While there's still no official confirmation, industry sources suggest that "The Cedars Of Lebanon," "Moment Of Surrender," "For Your Love," "One Bird," "If I Could Live My Life Again," "Love Is All We Have Left" and "No Line On The Horizon" will be among the songs featured on the new U2 album which may be released in Ireland on November 14th. Stay tuned! Spillin' The Cosmic BeansSammy Hagar was just rocking along on stage Tuesday night in Englewood, New Jersey when he suddenly revealed that he's just finished recording his next solo album, which is tentatively titled "Cosmic Universal Fashion." The former Van Halen frontman quipped, "What the f**k does that mean, right?" The Red Rocker added that he hoped to release the disc by his birthday in October. In other news, the Red Rocker has launched a new members-only club that will give fans exclusive access to ticket pre-sales, VIP packages and more. Def Lep Drummer Helps OthersDef Leppard drummer Rick Allen has set-up special Meet & Greet packages to benefit his Raven Drum Foundation and help injured service men and women returning home. The Meet & Greets will vary from city to city, but all will include the chance to meet Rick backstage, take photos and get autographs. Some packages will include premium concert tickets along with a backstage and drum kit tour with Rick, catered dinner backstage with Rick, and the chance to meet other members of the band. All proceeds from these auctions go to the Raven Drum Foundation and their Trauma & Resiliency Program, a comprehensive project for veterans and survivors of trauma which uses drumming as a healing tool. Please go directly to eBay and search for "Meet Rick Allen" to see more details on each package. For more info, you can also go to www.defleppard.com or www.ravendrum.org. B.B.'s Covers AlbumB.B. King — the King of the Blues — is about to release a covers album featuring old blues songs from some of his earliest influences. The "One Kind Favor" album, which was produced by the legendary T Bone Burnett, will feature B.B.'s versions of songs from John Lee Hooker, Lonnie Johnson, Lemon Jefferson, T-Bone Walker and many others. August 26th is the release date. Jackson's New OneJackson Browne will release a studio album called "Time The Conqueror" on September 23rd. Later that week, Browne will join a variety of stars including David Crosby and Graham Nash, at a concert celebrating the Seva Foundation's 30th anniversary on September 27th in Oakland.
A Thought For The WeekendWhy is it that at class reunions you feel younger than everyone else looks? Amazing Mid-Summer FactoidsThe average person's left hand does 56% of the typing. The Boston University Bridge (on Commonwealth Avenue, Boston, Massachusetts) is the only place in the world where a boat can sail under a train running under a car driving under an airplane. The Eisenhower Interstate system (that we're still using) required that one mile in every five be straight to use as airstrips in times of war or other emergencies. Whew... I think we all feel safer now! July 26, 2008
Bugs Bunny is 68.
On this day in 1990, Brent Mydland became the third consecutive keyboardist to die while working with the Grateful Dead. He was 37. July 27, 2008
On this day in 1974, Lynyrd Skynyrd released "Sweet Home Alabama," a response to Neil Young's dissing of their home state in the song "Southern Man." On this day in 1976, after a four-year court battle, John Lennon received his green card and was granted permanent residency status in the States. On this day in 1977, Led Zeppelin called off the remainder of their '77 North American Tour after Robert Plant's 6-year-old son Karac died of a respiratory ailment. On this day in 2001, Lynyrd Skynyrd bassist Leon Wilkeson died of heart failure in his Florida home. He was 49. July 28, 2008
Keyboardist Richard Wright of Pink Floyd is 65.
On this day in 1973, The Grateful Dead, The Band and the Allman Brothers Band played for some 600,000 at the world's largest rock festival at Watkins Glen Raceway in upstate New York. All the mud counteracted the nudity, and in May 1974, the birth rate barely showed an increase. Trust me, this was a good thing. On this day in 1973, Deep Purple's "Smoke On The Water" peaked at #4 as "Money" by Pink Floyd topped out at #13 and "Over The Hills And Far Away" by Led Zeppelin reached #51 on the charts. Grand Funk's "We're An American Band" also entered the singles chart, but it took the world a few more weeks to notice. On this day in 1995, James Al Hendrix, the father of legendary rocker Jimi Hendrix, won back the rights to his son's name, likeness, image and music. In the two decades between Jimi's death and this decision, countless businesses made profits off of Jimi. Now, it's his family that's raking it in.
Don't Cross The StonesAbkco Music, which owns the rights to the early The Rolling Stones' catalog, has sued hip-hop star Lil Wayne for alleged unauthorized use of the band's 1965 song "Play With Fire." Abkco claims that "Playing With Fire," a bonus track on the rapper's recent album, is "a clear derivative" of the Stones tune. If this case turns out anything like The Stones' suit against the Brit band the The Verve over an orchestral sample of "The Last Time" used in "Bittersweet Symphony," Lil Wayne will be forking over a lot of cash to those old English dudes. Meanwhile, The Stones have officially split with longtime label EMI and inked a new deal with the Universal Music Group. The pact covers future studio albums as well as the band's lucrative back catalog from 1971's "Sticky Fingers" onward. Gregg's Back/Allmans ReturnAfter undergoing the grueling treatment for Hepatitis C, Allman Brothers Band leader Gregg Allman is back on his feet and ready to hit the road. The ABB's two dozen East Coast dates starting on August 12th will mark their first performances since last September, when the group was forced to postpone a number of shows while Gregg recovered from debilitating Interferon treatments. Gregg says, "I just didn't have the energy to play... and we're a band that puts on two-hour shows that change every single night. You gotta be at full capacity to do that. And now I am." Look for the boys to play some special gigs to commemorate their 40th anniversary next year. A Dead SymphonyThe Baltimore Symphony Orchestra will give "Dead Symphony No. 6" — the first orchestral piece inspired by the Grateful Dead's music — its world premiere performance in Baltimore on August 1st. Composer Lee Johnson spent nearly 10 years writing the piece, which was first recorded in 2005 by the Russian National Orchestra. A true test of authenticity would be if the entire orchestra begins and ends the piece at the same time. If so, it's not really the Dead. Heather Heather HeatherYou didn't think that dealing with Heather Mills was difficult for just her ex-husband, Sir Paul McCartney, did you? Her publicist of the past four years has declared that she can't take any more of the "activist" either. Michele Elyzabeth says that Mills still owes her money and that the former "Dancing With The Stars" contestant is everything she's made out to be. "Since the divorce has become final, in my opinion, Heather has become an impossible person. Yesterday, we engaged in a heated argument during which she called me 'stupid.' I reminded her that she was not God and she answered, 'I will never ever talk to you again." Elyzabeth concluded, "On reflection and given the way I have been treated, I now have sympathy with much of what the British Press has reported about her." Sounds like somebody's ex-publicist may have been a little slow on the pick-up there, eh?
Quote Of The DayIt was Ingrid Bergman who said: "Happiness is good health and a bad memory." Talula Does The Hula From HawaiiI'm not sure what exact lesson this story has for you or me, but a girl in New Zealand christened "Talula Does The Hula From Hawaii" has been granted the right to change her name. The judge presiding over the case has ruled that the nine-year-old was left with an "unnecessary social disability and handicap" when her parents gave her the name. The child, who is now a ward of the court, has been given a new name, which is being kept quiet to protect her privacy. The judge in the matter says he is concerned about a trend in New Zealand where parents give their kids crazy names. Other examples include "Number 16 Bus Shelter," "Midnight Chardonnay" and "Violence." Granted, New Zealand is an island... but as Jim Ladd would say, "Lord have mercy!" July 29, 2008
Keyboardist Neil Doughty of REO Speedwagon is 62.
On this day in 1966, Bob Dylan crashed his motorcycle in Woodstock, NY. The legendary accident (which many still don't think really happened) allowed Dylan to disappear from public life at the height of his popularity. He reportedly suffered a concussion, a broken neck vertebrae, and suffered from paralysis and mild amnesia for the next month. For the record, he was riding a Triumph 55 motorcycle, which in 1966 was one hot machine. On this day in 1966, The Beatles' second film, "Help," premiered in London. The event created chaos by attracting thousands of excited fans to the location, and even Queen Elizabeth herself was in attendance. No, she didn't stand in line. On this day in 1966, Cream kicked off their first tour with a concert in Manchester, England.
On Stage TonightJames Taylor will be playing the first of two nights at the Greek Theatre tonight. Official Says AC/DC Tour OfficialOK, now it's really official. As announced at the 83rd annual IAAM conference and trade show in Anaheim yesterday, AC/DC will launch an 18-month world tour in October in support of the band's upcoming Wal-Mart-exclusive album release. Other acts touring in the near future include Eric Clapton and Robin Williams (presumably not together). And don't be surprised if KISS announces a big arena tour soon. Stay tuned! Cream Maybe/Maybe NotThis much is true: Cream bassist Jack Bruce and guitarist Eric Clapton will be there with Cream drummer Ginger Baker on October 3rd when Ginger is given Zildjian's Drummers Achievement Award at the Royal Albert Hall in London. As for the legendary combative trio doing more concerts together, well that's half speculation and half wishful thinking. Another note about the Zildjian show: Mitch Mitchell of the Jimi Hendrix Experience (a jazz-trained percussionist like Baker) will also be honored, with Foreigner/Led Zeppelin drummer Jason Bonham and the Killers' Ronnie Vannucci among those performing. More Rush VideoWe all knew that Rush was going to release a companion DVD to their double-disc Snakes & Arrows Live album that came out in April. But we didn't know that the trio filmed parts of their Alpharetta, Georgia concert last week — specifically "Red Barchetta," "The Trees," "Ghost of a Chance" and "2112." Once they emerge from the production studio, those performances are expected to be bonus tracks on the DVD which is due out on November 4th. You may now return to your regularly scheduled life. Macca Speaks/Honors/PaysPaul McCartney addressed this year's graduating class at the Liverpool Institute for the Performing Arts last Friday in Liverpool. The Beatles legend also presented several notables with honorary companionships (as in educational honors, not assigned friendships) including former Yes member/producer Trevor Horn. Just for the record, Sir Paulie is one of the main financial supporters of the institution. Cooper's PreppingAlice Cooper's new album, "Along Came A Spider," hits stores today. The concept disc features guest appearances from Ozzy Osbourne and Velvet Revolver guitarist Slash. As his Summer tour is set to launch, Alice is also working on a theatrical "Spider" tour — but the production won't be ready until next year. Alice says, "It's weird to be working on a show for a year from now, but... I can at least give myself a good head start." Hmm... not sure whether or not that serves as a warning to the rest of us, but we do wish him luck!
Quote Of The DayIt was Coach John Wooden who said: "Ability is a poor man's wealth." So Much For The WarrantyWhen his lawn mower wouldn't start, 56-year-old Milwaukee resident Keith Walendowski did the logical thing: he got his shotgun and shot the mower. When police came to arrest him, he protested, "It's my lawn mower and my yard, so I can shoot it if I want." Darned if the cops didn't agree, and charged him with possession of a short-barreled shotgun and disorderly conduct. The man with the gnarly lawn now faces over six years behind bars and a fine of up to $10,000. As for the shot-up machine, the owner of a nearby mower retail/repair shop said, "Anything not factory recommended would void the warranty." And the grass just keeps on growing. July 30, 2008
Blues legend Buddy Guy is 72.
On this day in 1966, "Wild Thing" by The Troggs hit #1 as Bob Dylan's "I Want You" peaked at #20 on the charts. On this day in 1983, Talking Heads' "Burning Down The House" entered the singles chart. On this day in 2003, Sam Phillips, the founder of Sun Records and the man credited with discovering Elvis Presley, died of respiratory failure in Memphis. He was 80. On this day in 2003, the largest paid-admission concert in history came off without a hitch when over 450,000 fans gathered for the Molson Canadian Rocks For Toronto (SARS-stock) concert headlined by The Rolling Stones. The 11-hour show featured 15 acts, including AC/DC, The Guess Who and Rush.
On Stage TonightJames Taylor will be playing the last of two nights at the Greek Theatre tonight. More Police Before They're DoneSure, when their reunion tour ends, they're history — but they're not done yet! The Police will tape an episode of Elton John-produced "Spectacle: Elvis Costello With..." before they play their last-ever gig next month. The trio will perform and discuss their music during their appearance, hopefully without fisticuffs. The highly anticipated series' debut season will eventually kick off in December on the Sundance Channel. Meanwhile, a special documenting last month's Hard Rock Calling concert in London's Hyde Park, which featured The Police, Eric Clapton and many others, will premiere Friday on VH1 Classic. Cheech & Chong ReduxCheech & Chong will be announcing the "Hey, What's That Smell?" tour today. This will be their first road trip in over 20 years. Cheech Marin and Tommy Chong went their separate ways in 1985, following a 13-year career that included nine albums and eight films. While the tour is being hyped as a 30th anniversary celebration of their cult classic "Up In Smoke," the reunion almost happened for their 25th anniversary. Unfortunately, Chong's 2003 arrest and conviction on charges relating to selling bongs and drug paraphernalia online, followed by a nine-month prison sentence, proved to a be a real buzz kill, man. No, really man... really! Bob's A Busy BoyBob Dylan will release the eighth volume of his official "Bootleg Series" on October 7th. The 27-song multi-disc collection, "Tell Tale Signs," contains various outtakes, demos, live performances and other rarities from the most recent 20 years of Bob's career. It will be available in a double-CD package with a 60-page booklet, as well as a deluxe edition that comes with a 12-song bonus CD and a 150-page hardcover photo book. Of course, there'll also be a vinyl edition of the compilation because, dammit, he's Bob Dylan and he's got stuff to sell! New/Old Skynyrd Live VideoWhy they had to use German archival footage to make a live DVD is beyond me. Lynyrd Skynyrd will release the "Sweet Home Alabama: The Rockpalast Collection" DVD on October 21st — just in time for early Christmas shoppers! Featuring their 1996 gig at Germany's Loreley Festival, the DVD also will offer three rare performances by the original version of the band from a 1974 appearance in Hamburg, Germany. Sweet Home Hamburg!
Quote Of The DayIt was Winston Churchill who said: "The chief aim of wisdom is to enable one to bear with the stupidity of the ignorant."  Blood Drive Today!Today! Today! Today! Join J.B. as he broadcasts from the Red Cross Donor Center in Pomona on the first day of the 27th Annual KLOS Blood Drive! Cool shirts, cookies and tickets to see ZZ Top with Brooks & Dunn, Crue Fest or the Metal Masters Tour will be plentiful while the KLOS family of listeners roll up their sleeves to help others! Here's a glance at a past Drive. July 31, 2008
Singer/guitarist Bob Welch of Fleetwood Mac fame is 62.
On this day in 1965, The Yardbirds released the song "Heart Full of Soul," which featured Jeff Beck's groundbreaking guitar work. On this day in 1971, James Taylor hit #1 with "You've Got A Friend" as Lee Michaels released "Do You Know What I Mean." On this day in 1976, Blue Oyster Cult released "Don't Fear The Reaper" as Gary Wright's "Love Is Alive" hit #2 and "You're My Best Friend" by Queen peaked at #16 on the charts. On this day in 1985, John Mellencamp released his classic "Scarecrow" album. This Sunday night at 9 on 95.5 KLOS, OFF THE RECORD with Joe Benson will feature the music of Jethro Tull and Joe's brand new conversation with group leader Ian Anderson.
On Stage TonightJohn Mellencamp will be rocking the Greek Theatre tonight, just as former Eagle Don Felder is doing a booksigning at Borders in Sherman Oaks. Crowes Sue GretchenThe Rolling Stones aren't the only one's currently suing over copyright infringements. The Black Crowes just sued Gretchen Wilson, TNT, Sony BMG and publishing company J Money Music over the band's 1991 hit "Jealous Again." They claim Wilson exploited the track for her own song, "Work Hard, Play Harder," which TNT in turn used in ads for its show "Saving Grace." The Crowes longtime manager says, "We find the musical verses of Wilson's song to be such an obvious example of copyright infringement that I expect all parties to reach a relatively quick resolution to avoid litigation." Stay tuned! AC/DC Store (Maybe)I have no idea if AC/DC are actually considering opening temporary stores in New York and Los Angeles to offer band-related merchandise tied in with the release of their new studio album... but I sure hope they validate parking! Don't Let It BeYou may recall that The Beatles' last movie, "Let It Be," was released to theaters in 1970, soon after the band announced their break-up. Well if you didn't see it then, or screened at Beatlefest 20 years ago, then you're out of luck. Word is that the very "dark" documentary won't be out on DVD for a long, long time. As fans of Chris Carter's "Breakfast With The Beatles on KLOS" have been hearing for months, the Fab Four's final film had been on track for re-mastering and release. But now we're hearing that Paul McCartney and Ringo Starr are concerned that the film will tarnish the band's reputation. The movie was shot in early 1969, with the intention of showcasing The Beatles creating music in the studio. But it also captured the tension between band members, complete with arguments and disagreements that highlighted the difficulties they were having getting along. Now sources in the Brit press are saying, "it's unlikely it will ever see the light of day in Paul and Ringo's lifetime." CCR RedoneWith their 40th anniversary coming up, and no reunion in sight, it only makes sense that Creedence Clearwater Revival's first six albums will be reissued in expanded versions on September 30th. The remastered "Creedence Clearwater Revival," "Bayou Country," "Green River," "Willy & The Poor Boys," "Cosmo's Factory" and "Pendulum" will all feature B-sides and unreleased material. Rock & Roll! Pagey/The Edge/Jack WhiteLed Zeppelin's Jimmy Page, U2's The Edge, and The White Stripes' Jack White are featured in a new guitar documentary called "It Might Get Loud." They say that the three were specifically selected in an effort to showcase their individual styles as guitar innovators, and to show how the guitar has been used in rock music through the decades. Page, from his time as a session musician and his work in The Yardbirds and the Zep, represents the Sixties and Seventies. The Edge represents the Eighties and Nineties, while White takes the film to the present day. And yes, there is a jam session with the three performers. Davis Guggenheim ("An Inconvenient Truth" and "Deadwood") served as the movie's director/co-producer. The film had its world premiere at the Cannes Film Festival in France earlier this year and has just been slated for the Toronto International Film Festival in September.
Quote Of The DayIt was Oscar Wilde who said: "When the gods wish to punish us, they answer our prayers." Tanks For The RideWord is that a German family has purchased a six-ton British-built Fox tank which they plan to use for "shopping and little trips." Dad Joachim Schoeneich says it's a "bit hard to find a parking place" for the vehicle, but they do tend to get right of way at each intersection. The tank features a 30 millimeter gun, which has been disabled, three-inch thick armor plating and it's even been fitted with a car seat for their two-year-old son. Sure the tank only gets about five miles to the gallon, but Schoeneich says "the driving experience makes up for it." Indeed! |
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