September 1 - 10, 2008
These 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!
September 1, 2008
On this day in 1976, "More Than A Feeling" by Boston entered the charts.
On this day in 1979, U2 released their first record, the "U2-3" EP.
On this day in 1979, INXS made their live debut at the Oceanview Hotel in Sydney, Australia. Before they scored their first American Top 40 hit four years later, they averaged over 250 gigs a year in Australia's many pubs and clubs.
Labor Day
Organized by the Central Labor Union, the first Labor Day holiday was held on Tuesday, September 5th, 1882 in New York City. Two years later, union organizers settled on the first Monday in September to celebrate a "workingmen's holiday," and by 1894, 24 states had adopted the holiday. On June 28, 1894, U.S. Congressmen eager to curry favor among the unions made the day a Federal Holiday. The big back-to-school sales and end-of-year model close-out automobile sales evolved around the holiday weekend many, many years later.
September 2, 2008
Keyboardist Steve Porcaro of Toto is 51.
On this day in 1965, The Beatles released Paul McCartney's "Yesterday."
On this day in 1970, Phil Collins answered an ad in Britain's "Melody Maker" magazine and found himself at an audition for the drummer's slot in Genesis. Phil got the job, and 5 years later, when Peter Gabriel left the band, Phil became the group's lead vocalist.
On this day in 1972, The Doobie Brothers released "Listen To The Music" as "Long Cool Woman (In A Black Dress)" by The Hollies peaked at #2 on the charts.
On this day in 1978, Aerosmith entered the charts with "Come Together" as "Surrender" by Cheap Trick peaked at #62.
On this day in 1978, former-Beatle George Harrison married Olivia Trinidad Arias in Henley-on-Thames, England. She was born in Mexico and raised in America, and they met in 1974 when she worked as a secretary for his Dark Horse Records Company in Los Angeles.
On this day in 1988, the Amnesty International "Human Rights Now!" tour began with Bruce Springsteen & The E Street Band, Peter Gabriel and Sting headlining the shows.
On this day in 1989, Aerosmith's "Love In An Elevator" entered the singles chart.
On this day in 1995, Cleveland's Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame and Museum opened with a seven-hour concert that included Chuck Berry, James Brown, Aretha Franklin, Bob Dylan, Al Green, Jerry Lee Lewis, The Allman Brothers Band, George Clinton, Melissa Etheridge, John Mellencamp, Little Richard and Bruce Springsteen & The E Street Band. The show was great, but parking was a real bitch.
Hagar Parties Like A Republican
If you don't catch Sammy Hagar performing at the Republican National Convention this week, know that his annual birthday bash in Cabo San Lucas will run non-stop between October 5th and 13th.
Bruce Finishes With 3+ Hours On Stage
Bruce Springsteen ended his world tour by playing more than 30 songs over 3½ hours Saturday night as part of Harley-Davidson's 105th anniversary celebration. You'd think that the normally chatty Boss would have quite a bit to say in a show that long, but reports are that he actually made very few comments between songs. In fact, he only mentioned politics once, saying that "Livin' In The Future" was about what was happening now: cheese, Harley-Davidson motorcycles, transfats, "500 channels of nothing on" and the Bill Of Rights. Notably, he did not play "Born In The U.S.A," his anthem about the difficulties Vietnam war veterans faced, nor did he perform "Devils And Dust," the anti-war ballad about Iraq. Springsteen's performance on Milwaukee's lakefront was the last stop on a tour in which he and The E Street Band performed 100 concerts for more than 2 million fans. As for numbers of people, over 100,000 in total were expected to participate in the four-day Harley-Davidson celebration. Other bands contributing to the 11-hour marathons of music on Friday and Saturday included Foghat, Peter Frampton, Blue Oyster Cult, ZZ Top and Lynyrd Skynyrd.
Queen + Paul Set (Another) Date
It's finally official. October 28th is the U.S. release date for Queen + Paul Rodgers "The Cosmos Rocks," the band's first new album since Rodgers stepped in for the late Freddie Mercury in 2004. Q+PR begins its first world tour September 12th in the Ukraine, hitting North America early next year.
Ginger's Problem
Word is that Cream's infamous drumming god and current South African resident, Ginger Baker, has been taken to the bank (so to speak) by his personal assistant. Lindiwe Noko has been charged with 27 counts of fraud in her apparent theft of over $53,000 from Ginger's bank accounts. Baker called police after he discovered that Lindiwe had purchased a $38,000 car on her $23 per day salary. Wonder if this will affect Ginger's attitude about rejoining Eric Clapton and Jack Bruce for a few more Cream reunion shows?
KISS Shoes/Pants
Whoa! Don't know why they waited so long, but Vans has announced official KISS-themed shoes and jeans. They promise that the KISS Dressed To Kill line (their word, not ours) will feature images of the four (current) bandmembers printed on the sneakers and pants. Awesome! And now you may return to your regularly scheduled life.
Quotes Of The Day
It was Coach John Wooden who said: "Be more concerned with your character than your reputation, because your character is what you really are, while your reputation is merely what others think you are."
It was Dr. Seuss who said: "Sometimes the questions are complicated and the answers are simple."
September 3, 2008
Grand Funk Railroad drummer Don Brewer is 60.
On this day in 1977, Heart's "Barracuda" peaked at #11 on the charts.
On this day in 1982, the first three-day US Festival, financed by Apple Computer's Steve Wozniak, kicked off where the Glen Helen Pavilion is now located. Over 400,000 people showed up to hear Fleetwood Mac, The Police, Jackson Browne, Tom Petty, The Cars, the Grateful Dead, Talking Heads and Pat Benatar, among others. It is said that on most hot September evenings, you can still hear lost souls looking for their cars in the hillsides around Devore.
Selling Those Lips
The original artwork for The Rolling Stones' iconic lips and tongue symbol has been bought by London's famed Victoria and Albert Museum. The logo, originally designed in 1970 and used by the band ever since, was sold for $92,500 by the artist John Pasche. Pasche, then a student at London's Royal College of Art, was originally paid about $100 for creating the design. The Stones were so pleased with the art that two years after he first drew it, they gave him a whopping $500 bonus. The artist later worked with others including Sir Paul McCartney and The Who, and later became the art director at United Artists and Chrysalis Records.
Metallica/Macca/Carla & Jools
Nothing like an English TV show to mix things up. Metallica, Sir Paul McCartney and French first lady Carla Bruni Sarkozy will all perform together live on the BBC's "Later… with Jools Holland," a late night talk show which traditionally starts with the host playing piano and his guests singing together. The September 16th performance will mark Metallica's first appearance on the show in 12 years. FYI, France's new first lady will sing songs from her recently released third album while looking absolutely fabulous.
Jovi Helps
Jon Bon Jovi was in Newark yesterday with New Jersey's governor to announce the HELP USA Newark Initiative. The public-private partnership, with Bon Jovi's Philadelphia Soul Charitable Foundation, will build the Genesis Apartments, 51 new units of affordable housing that will cater to homeless people who have AIDS. And you know he wasn't doing it for publicity, he was doing it to help. Right so Jon!
Dead Redux (Maybe)
Sounds like surviving Grateful Dead members Bob Weir, Phil Lesh, Bill Kreutzmann and Mickey Hart will reunite for an October 13th benefit concert for Democratic presidential nominee Barack Obama. Word is that the gig will take place in Philadelphia or Pittsburgh, and Warren Haynes from the Allman Brothers Band will fill in for the late Jerry Garcia. And yes, there is talk of a tour next year, but let's not get ahead of ourselves here.
Halens Say No Way
You can't blame them! The Van Halen brothers weren't pleased to hear that their 1991 song "Right Here, Right Now" was played at a Dayton, Ohio political rally Friday during which Republican presidential candidate John McCain revealed his running mate, Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin. A band rep says the McCain camp never submitted a request to use the tune, and "had they asked, permission would not have been granted." In contrast, the song's co-writer, former VH singer Sammy Hagar, had no problem with it. Said Sam, "Whether it was McCain who used the song or if Obama had chosen to use the song, with the current political climate, the lyrics still have the same meaning." But that really wasn't the point, was it Mr. Hagar?
Quotes Of The Day
It was Oscar Wilde who said: "Nothing that is worth knowing can be taught."
It was Albert Einstein who said: "Not everything that counts can be counted, and not everything that can be counted counts."
September 4, 2008
Pretenders drummer Martin Chambers is 59.
On this day in 1962, John Lennon, Paul McCartney, George Harrison and Ringo Starr recorded together for the first time at EMI's St. John Studio. The Beatles made a 6-song demo that included "Love Me Do" and "P.S., I Love You." In the process, producer George Martin made them redo "Love Me Do" 16 times. What was he thinking?
On this day in 1965, The Beatles' "Help!" peaked at #1 on the charts as Bob Dylan's "Like A Rolling Stone" peaked at #2.
On this day in 1965, The Who had their equipment van stolen outside the Battersea Dog's Home in England while they were inside purchasing a guard dog.
On this day in 1970, George Harrison released "My Sweet Lord."
On this day in 1971, "Riders On The Storm" by The Doors peaked at #14 on the charts.
On this day in 1976, Fleetwood Mac's self-titled album hit #1 after 54 weeks on the charts.
On this day in 1982, the song "Abracadabra" by the Steve Miller Band peaked at #1 on the charts.
On this day in 1987, Pink Floyd released their "A Momentary Lapse Of Reason" album.
Good News/Bad News/U2 News
First the good news: U2 have worked up "50 to 60" tracks during their recording sessions in Morocco, Dublin and France. Now the bad news: the new album has been delayed until early 2009. "We've hit a rich songwriting vein and we don't want to stop," Bono said. "This is our chance for us to defy gravity once again." He said this new album — coming on the heels of two "very personal" albums in "All You Can't Leave Behind" and "How To Dismantle An Atomic Bomb" — attempts to recapture "the transition that took us from 'The Joshua Tree' to 'Achtung Baby.'" When will we finally hear the fruits of the sessions? Bono says, "If it was just up to me they'd be out already! But early next year people will be able to start hearing what we've been doing. We want 2009 to be our year." Right so!
Bruce/Super Bowl/Usher
During a press conference yesterday, R&B star Usher said he'd like to be the entertainer at the Super Bowl halftime, and that he'd even been approached for the event. Then he added, "But they've already accepted this year's performer, Bruce Springsteen, which is going to be incredible." He was immediately interrupted by an NFL rep who corrected the singer by noting they were, "still working" on the Springsteen deal. Yeah, sure... and thanks for the heads up Usher!
Zep's Outstanding/Lily's Hammered
Led Zeppelin received the Outstanding Achievement award at the British edition of GQ magazine's annual Men Of The Year Awards Tuesday night in London. Singer Robert Plant, who quipped "When the temples get grey, the [awards] start coming in thick and fast," was on hand with guitarist Jimmy Page to collect the prize. The ceremony was co-hosted by Sir Elton John and Lily Allen, who — in the grand British tradition of minimally talented tarts — drank continuously throughout the ceremony. The most entertaining highlight came when Allen slurred, "Now we reach a very special point in the evening..." and Sir Elty interrupted by asking, "What, are you going to have another drink?" The 23-year-old Allen fired back with an expletive at the 61-year-old John, saying, "I'm 40 years younger than you. I have my whole life ahead of me." John retorted, "I could still snort you under the table." Everyone present realized they had found a strong potential successor to singer Amy Winehouse (who, to no one's surprise, never showed up at the ceremony).
No Macca Marriage (Yet)
Heads up! Word is that even though Paul McCartney has finally put his divorce behind him and has been spending lots of time with New York socialite Nancy Shevell, marriage isn't imminent. The couple spent part of this past weekend cruising off the coast of Long Island on the former Beatle's boat, a vessel named Linda after Paul's late first wife. But the 65-year-old singer and his 47-year-old girlfriend say they are not planning a wedding any time soon. Does that mean they're on for December?
Hall To Hail Paul
Starting on November 8th, the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame will honor the legendary Les Paul with their annual American Music Masters series. "The Wizard of Waukesha: The Life and Legacy of Les Paul" will actually be a week's worth of events dedicated to the 93-year-old guitar pioneer including panels, film screenings, an academic conference, and a concert on November 15th. Although the tribute will be in Cleveland (not Waukesha), the organizers are hoping the 1988 Hall inductee can attend. Past honorees include Buddy Holly, Roy Orbison and Jerry Lee Lewis.
Unheard Page & Jones
A number of unheard recordings by Led Zeppelin's Jimmy Page as well as some by a very young Tom Jones are among the 5,000 items from eclectic music producer Joe Meek's private collection up for auction today at London's Idea Generation Gallery. The collection is estimated to be worth over $500,000. An absolute loon, Meek became an icon of the British music industry with his experimental recording techniques in the Fifties and Sixties. Stateside he was most famous for The Tornados' 1962 hit "Telstar." A film of Meek's life, starring Kevin Spacey and tentatively called "Telstar," is currently in post-production in England.
Great White Settles
Great White has reached a settlement with the families of victims and survivors of the February 2003 Station nightclub fire that claimed 100 lives. The band will pay $1 million to the 300+ defendants, and as part of the settlement, the group denies any wrong doing in the fourth-deadliest nightclub fire in U.S. history. The state of Rhode Island and town of Warwick also settled with defendants last month for $10 million. No cash has been distributed yet, but a Duke University law professor has been put in charge of deciding how to properly dole out the money to each defendant.
September 4th Historicals
On this day in 1781, Spanish settlers founded Los Angeles. Too bad half of them got stuck in traffic and missed the ceremony.
On this day in 1888, George Eastman patented his new roll-film camera and copyrighted the "Kodak" servicemark. Although it's hard to picture it so many years later, the developers actually lost George's first two rolls of film. (But it would have been worse if they had been the rolls with pictures of his assistant's girlfriend!)
Quotes Of The Day
It was J.W. Eagan who said: "Never judge a book by its movie."
It was Walt Disney who said: "It's kind of fun to do the impossible."
September 5, 2008
Singer Freddie Mercury of Queen would have been 62.
Drummer Buddy Miles (who worked with Hendrix, among many others) would have been 62.
On this day in 1964, Manfred Mann released the #1 charting "Do Wah Diddy" just as The Animals' cover of "House of the Rising Sun" hit #1.
On this day in 1965, The Rolling Stones flew into Los Angeles just to record their #1 single "Get Off Of My Cloud."
On this day in 1970, Joe Cocker's "Mad Dogs & Englishmen" album entered the charts, eventually peaking at #2.
On this day in 1981, "Stop Draggin' My Heart Around" by Stevie Nicks with Tom Petty & the Heartbreakers peaked at #3, "Urgent" by Foreigner peaked at #4, "Fire And Ice" by Pat Benatar peaked at #17 on the charts.
On this day in 1981, Bruce Springsteen joined The Pretenders onstage at Perkin's Palace in Pasadena to cover the Jackie Wilson classic "(Your Love Keeps Lifting Me) Higher and Higher."
This Sunday night at 9 on 95.5 KLOS, OFF THE RECORD with Joe Benson will feature the music of The Who and more of Joe's conversation with singer Roger Daltrey.
On Stage Saturday
Bill Engvall will be doing a show at The Grove of Anaheim Saturday night.
On Stage Sunday
The Doobie Brothers and Grand Funk Railroad will be rocking the L.A. County Fair Sunday night. See you there!
Burnt Strat Brings Big Bucks
The first guitar Jimi Hendrix ever burned on stage was sold for $497,500 at The Fame Bureau's It's More Than Rock & Roll memorabilia auction on Thursday. Jimi torched the 1965 Fender Stratocaster at the end of a club show in London in 1967. It was rediscovered in a garage last year, and still bears the wicked scorch marks. The Beatles' first management contract, signed in 1962 by all four members of the group and manager Brian Epstein as well as Paul McCartney's and George Harrison's fathers, fetched about $426,000. And there's still no word if the 2,000 master tapes collection of legendary British music producer Joe Meek — including ancient recordings of Jimmy Page, Tom Jones and David Bowie's first band — sold for anywhere near the anticipated $500,000.
Woodie Heads To Pete's
Rolling Stone Ron Wood is out of rehab and may be headed to Pete Townshend's pad. British newspapers are saying that The Who's Townshend offered Woodie a place to crash amid reports of Ron's struggling relationship with his wife Jo. Pete has acknowledged that he recently underwent a stint in rehab for alcohol abuse, and wants to help his old friend. Stay tuned!
Mellencamp Covers A Dylan Classic
John Mellencamp has released a stark black & white music video of Bob Dylan's "The Times They Are A-Changin'." In the midst of a heated presidential race, John feels that the classic carries "relevant ideals of the past." Check it out http://mellencamp.com.
Sharon Says She's Writing
True — it's been less than 24 hours since we last heard from Sharon Osbourne. But Ozzy's girl has a busy publicist and some sort of a deal to write two novels. The first as-yet-untitled/unwritten book, which is due out next Summer, is described as a "glamour, Hollywood, gossip and scandal, outrageous and funny and with lots of great plot twists." Yes, of course Sharon will work with a ghostwriter, but some of the ideas (if not the spellings) will be her own.
Another Award for Peter
Peter Gabriel will receive this year's Amnesty International's Ambassador of Conscience Award next Wednesday in London in recognition of his extensive human rights campaigning. U2 guitarist The Edge, whose band received the award in 2005, will present the former Genesis frontman with the award at a gala ceremony. Peter has many times acknowledged that Edge and U2 singer Bono were the first to introduce him to Amnesty's work. Right so say we!
Bruce's Wrestling Soundtrack
Bruce Springsteen has written and recorded the title song for the movie "The Wrestler." The film, directed by Darren Aronofsky of "Requiem For A Dream" fame, premieres today (Friday) at Italy's Venice Film Festival.
Quotes Of The Day
It was Bill Gates who said: "Life is not divided into semesters. You don't get summers off and very few employers are interested in helping you find yourself."
It was G.K. Chesterton who said: "The whole modern world has divided itself into Conservatives and Progressives. The business of Progressives is to go on making mistakes. The business of the Conservatives is to prevent the mistakes from being corrected." Same as it ever was!
Doobie Brothers/Grand Funk
This Sunday!: After a KLOS Cool Patrol Meet & Greet, Uncle Joe will introduce his old friends The Doobie Brothers and Grand Funk Railroad on the L.A. County Fair's main stage!
September 6, 2008
Bassist/songwriter/singer Roger Waters of Pink Floyd is 64.
On this day in 1968, Eric Clapton recorded his guitar solo on The Beatles' "While My Guitar Gently Weeps" as a favor to his friend George Harrison.
On this day in 1976, Fleetwood Mac's "Fleetwood Mac" album topped the U.S. album charts for the first time after being on those charts for 54 weeks.
On this day in 1990, Tom Fogerty, brother of John and a founding member of Creedence Clearwater Revival, died at the age of 48.
On this day in 1994, pianist Nicky Hopkins died at age 50. Following his performance on The Rolling Stones' "Their Satanic Majesties Request," he became an in-demand session player with appearances on albums by The Who, The Kinks, Steve Miller, John Lennon and Rod Stewart, among many others.
September 7, 2008
Rock & Roll icon Buddy Holly would have been 72.
Chrissie Hynde, leader of The Pretenders, is 57.
Keyboardist Benmont Tench of Tom Petty's Heartbreakers is 55.
On this day in 1976, the New York State Supreme Court ruled that George Harrison "subconsciously plagiarized" The Chiffon's 1963 hit "He's So Fine" in his 1970 hit "My Sweet Lord." Harrison had to pay $587,000 to ABKCO Music, a company owned, ironically, by The Beatles' former business manager, Allen Klein.
On this day in 1978, drummer Keith Moon of The Who died at the age of 31. Ironically, he overdosed on a drug prescribed to help keep his alcoholism in control.
On this day in 2003, singer/songwriter/icon Warren Zevon died from lung cancer in Los Angeles at the age of 56.
September 8, 2008
Bassist/vocalist Benjamin Orr of The Cars would have been 61.
On this day in 1962, "Monster Mash" by Bobby Pickett entered the Hot 100 chart at #85.
On this day in 1965, Variety ran an ad that read, "Madness! Parts available for four insane boys age 17 to 21." 437 young men, including Charles Manson and Stephen Stills, applied for the roles, but the parts were taken by Micky Dolenz, Peter Tork, Mike Nesmith and Davy Jones. The quartet became The Monkees and their TV series began airing in September 1966. Before the end of that year, the manufactured band had sold over 8 million albums.
On this day in 1973, The Rolling Stones next #1 single, "Angie," entered the chart.
On this day in 1976, President Gerald Ford's son, Stephen, invited Peter Frampton, his manager and his girlfriend to the White House. They were given a tour of the Presidential home and spent part of the afternoon in the First Family's living quarters, watching television with the President.
On this day in 1979, "Don't Bring Me Down" by ELO peaked at #4, "Let's Go" by The Cars peaked at #14 while "Goodbye Stranger" by Supertramp topped out at #15 on the charts.
On this day in 1988, Elton John auctioned off his private collection of stage costumes and memorabilia. The assortment netted more than $6 million for charity, including $16,000 brought by one particular pair of glasses.
On this day in 1990, the song "Suicide Blonde" by INXS entered the charts.
Politicians Stealing From Musicians
Evidently the John McCain/Carl Rove/Republican attitude is screw 'em — we'll pay whatever we want, and someone objects, we'll just get more publicity. So far this year, Jackson Browne, John Mellencamp, Van Halen and members of Boston all had to deal with Republican candidates using their music without permission. Then Heart's song "Barracuda" was played at the Republican National Convention after Vice Presidential candidate Sarah Palin's speech last Wednesday. Heart's Ann and Nancy Wilson immediately asked that their song not be played again, but sure enough, right after Senator John McCain's speech that very night, the tune was blasted as balloons fell. Nancy Wilson's follow-up statement on Friday said, in part, "Sarah Palin's views and values in NO WAY represent us as American women. We ask that our song 'Barracuda' no longer be used to promote her image. The song 'Barracuda' was written in the late Seventies as a scathing rant against the soulless, corporate nature of the music business, particularly for women. (The 'barracuda' represented the business.) While Heart did not and would not authorize the use of their song at the RNC, there's irony in Republican strategists' choice to make use of it there."
Gilmour's Big Screening
Highlights from Pink Floyd guitarist David Gilmour's "Live in Gdansk" DVD/CD will be screened in 106 U.S. theaters on September 22nd, a day before the release's various packages will be issued. The cinematic version of "Gdansk" will include five performances not available on the standard DVD. Meanwhile, a DVD titled "A Technicolor Dream," which will feature 1967 concert footage of Pink Floyd and recent interviews with the group's Roger Waters and Nick Mason, is due out October 28th.
Sting's Avatar
The world famous Sting will appear as an (immaculately coiffed) avatar in the upcoming Guitar Hero World Tour video game, set for an October release. Meanwhile, the release date for The Police's "Certifiable" live four-disc set — available exclusively via Best Buy — has been pushed back to November 11th.
Macca Meets Mideast Politics
OK, who didn't see this coming? Two pro-Palestinian organizations — the Palestine Solidarity Campaign and the Palestinian Campaign for the Academic and Cultural Boycott of Israel — are calling on Paul McCartney to cancel plans for his first-ever concert in Israel. The PACBI press release says, "We strongly urge you to uphold the values of freedom, equality and just peace for all by joining this growing boycott against Israeli apartheid." The show is set for September 25th in Tel Aviv.
All-Star Hendrix Tribute
Aerosmith guitarist Brad Whitford and former Jimi Hendrix bandmates Mitch Mitchell and Billy Cox are among the musicians scheduled for a Hendrix tribute on October 15th in Hampton Beach, New Hampshire. The Experience Hendrix concert's line-up will also include blues icon Buddy Guy and former Stevie Ray Vaughan drummer Chris Layton.
Quotes Of The Day
It was G.K. Chesterton who said: "I have formed a very clear conception of patriotism. I have generally found it thrust into the foreground by some fellow who has something to hide in the background. I have seen a great deal of patriotism; and I have generally found it the last refuge of the scoundrel."
It was Dave Matthews who said: "It's always easier to leave than to be left."
September 9, 2008
Otis Redding, one of the greatest soul singers of all time, would have been 68.
Keyboardist Billy Preston, who worked with The Beatles and Eric Clapton, among many others, would have been 63.
Eurythmic Dave Stewart is 56.
On this day in 1956, Elvis Presley made his first appearance on "The Ed Sullivan Show," shown only from the waist up so that his gyrating pelvis wouldn't corrupt the nation's youth.
On this day in 1968, during one of the 17 takes that The Beatles recorded of "Helter Skelter," Paul McCartney played bass while lying on his back.
On this day in 1971, John Lennon released his second solo album, "Imagine."
On this day in 1972, "Witchy Woman" by the Eagles entered the singles chart.
On this day in 1973, The Rolling Stones released "Angie," which eventually became one of their biggest selling singles, going all the way to #1.
On this day in 1978, The Who released "Who Are You," their last album recorded with Keith Moon, and The Rolling Stones released their "Beast of Burden" single.
On this day in 1978, a very young U2 supported The Stranglers at Dublin's Top Hat Ballroom. The Stranglers took up both dressing rooms, leaving Bono and company to dress behind the speakers. Note: In all the years since, The Stranglers were never invited to open for U2.
On this day in 1981, Journey's "Escape" album hit #1.
On this day in 1981, both Sting and Phil Collins made their first live solo appearances at Amnesty International's fund-raising "Secret Policeman's Other Ball" in London.
On this day in 2007, guitarist/singer Hughie Thomasson, a founding member of the Outlaws and a longtime member of Lynyrd Skynyrd, died of a heart attack at his home in Brooksville at the age of 55.
Takes Four Zeppers To Tango
Guitar gods Jimmy Page, U2's The Edge and the rascally Jack White attended a Toronto International Film Festival press conference on Saturday for their incredible documentary film "It Might Get Loud." Pagey dodged a couple of questions about the potential Led Zeppelin reunion before the "final question of the day" allowed another reporter to ask point blank about rumours that Page, John Bonham's son Jason and John Paul Jones are recording right now and that a reunion is on the horizon. Jimmy calmly replied, "We're not actually recording. And as for the December 10, 2007 benefit concert in honor of late Atlantic Records founder Ahmet Ertegun, Led Zeppelin played at the 02, that was our reunion and it was one day and it was at the 02 in London... And basically that was it because if you're going to do a reunion, you need four members. John Paul Jones, myself and Jason would sort of jam afterwards but it was nothing as monumental as people are speculating." Right. But what about the tour Jimmy, what about the tour?
Heather's Ex-Rep Rips
Tired of American politics? Then check out the long interview in England's "News of the World" tabloid with Michele Elyzabeth, Heather Mills' former PR rep. Ms. Elyzabeth calls the former Mrs. Paul McCartney a "calculating, pathological liar and the biggest b***h on the planet," adding, "She not only misled me, she misled the entire world." Angry with the betrayal, Michele said, "Heather used me as her mouthpiece for four years, and I'm ashamed to say throughout that time I simply told lies. As her friend, I BELIEVED she was telling the truth, but now I realize she conned me. I was foolish and saw her simply as the devoted humanitarian, charity campaigner and protective mother she wanted the world to see. Now I want the public to know who the REAL Heather Mills is... a gold digger. I'm certain her marriage to Paul was all about the money. I've spent hours with Heather, I've seen how tight she is with her cash, how she lied to me about Paul giving her money and experienced how she dodges bills — including my own fees." Does it sound like your type of delicious/salacious story? Then head to http://NewsOfTheWorld.co.uk.
Mellencamp's 9/11 Fundraiser
John Mellencamp will perform tonight at a benefit event in New York to raise funds for the National September 11 Memorial & Museum that's being built at the site of the World Trade Center. The $1,000-a-plate Notes of Hope dinner will be hosted by NYC mayor, Michael Bloomberg. Mellencamp says, "The hope is that this national memorial will remind us... about how much we all have in common and at stake... I'm proud to support its creation."
It's Carlos' Call
Carlos Santana is calling his upcoming retrospective collection "a love letter to fans." He also had a hand in every aspect of "Multi Dimensional Warrior," including choosing the tunes and developing the artwork and packaging. He even redid some of the songs, like adding guitar to the songs "Spirit" and "Right Now." In addition, pianist Chester "C.T." Thompson and harmonica player Barbara Higbie freshened up "Let There Be Light" and Higbie also put some new notes on "Praise." "Multi Dimensional Warrior" is due in stores on September 30th.
Robby Joins Experience
As expected, the October 15th Jimi Hendrix tribute concert in New Hampshire (featuring special guest Brad Whitford of Aerosmith) is actually the kickoff of the 2008 Experience Hendrix tour. In addition to blues icon Buddy Guy and former Hendrix bandmates Mitch Mitchell and Billy Cox, Doors guitarist Robby Krieger will be a special guest at five gigs including, we assume, the Greek Theater show on November 2nd.
Yardbirds Docu Set
That new Yardbirds documentary DVD has been reset for a November 11th release. "The Story Of The Yardbirds" features interviews and several performances filmed between 1963 and 1968, including clips of the group's three famed guitarists — Eric Clapton, Jeff Beck and Jimmy Page. Considering the short-lived band's long-lived influence on rock music, I'd say this project is well overdue!
Quotes Of The Day
It was Barack Obama who said: "Any fool can have a child. That doesn't make you a father. It's the courage to raise a child that makes you a father."
It was Coach John Wooden who said: "Never mistake activity for achievement."
September 10, 2008
Vocalist Danny Hutton of Three Dog Night is 66.
Guitarist Joe Perry of Aerosmith is 58.
On this day in 1964, Rod Stewart made his professional recording debut, covering the old blues track "Good Morning Little Schoolgirl." After finishing his vocal, Rod reportedly ran out of the studio looking for a tall, leggy blonde. The bassist on the session, John Paul Jones, later became a cornerstone of Led Zeppelin, at which point all the tall leggy blondes came looking for him — but that's a different story for a different time.
On this day in 1966, The Beatles' "Revolver" album hit #1 on the American chart, where it stayed for six weeks.
On this day in 1975, Pink Floyd's album "Wish You Were Here" and KISS' album "KISS Alive" were both released.
On this day in 1980, The Rolling Stones' single "She's So Cold" was released.
On this day in 1983, Stevie Nicks released the "If Anyone Falls" single.
On this day in 1988, "Sweet Child O' Mine" by Guns N' Roses peaked at #1, "Simply Irresistible" by Robert Palmer peaked at #2 and "When It's Love" by Van Halen peaked at #5 on the charts.
On this day in 1988, Eric Clapton kicked off an American tour with Dire Straits guitarist Mark Knopfler playing in his band.
This Sunday night at 9 on 95.5 KLOS, OFF THE RECORD with Joe Benson will feature the music of Supertramp and conversation with singers Roger Hodgson and Rick Davies, as well as producer Ken Scott.
The Who/The Kennedy Center
Did you ever wonder who holds the record for the loudest performance at the esteemed Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C.? It's guaranteed that record will be shattered when Who singer Roger Daltrey and guitarist Pete Townshend are saluted at the 31st Annual Kennedy Center Honors gala on December 7th! Actors Morgan Freeman and Barbara Streisand, country singer George Jones and choreographer Twyla Tharp will also be honored. CBS will air an edited version of the presentation later in December. Wow — The Who at the Kennedy Center!
Replacing Jon Anderson?
Sure didn't see this one coming! You remember how Yes had to cancel their 2008 Summer tour due to frontman Jon Anderson's respiratory problems? Well, word out of England is that bassist Chris Squire, guitarist Steve Howe and drummer Alan White have decided to regroup with replacement singer Benoit David, a member of the Yes tribute band Closer to the Edge. The as-yet-unconfirmed tour will supposedly roll off later this year. Hmm...
Sorum/Hagar/Anthony
Former Guns N' Roses drummer Matt Sorum has recorded a song called "Loud" with former Van Halen singer and bassist, Sammy Hagar and Michael Anthony. You can watch the boys working on it at http://MattSorum.tv.
Beatles Memories
British researchers have collected 3,000 Beatles-related memories from people aged 17 to 87 who live in 69 different countries in an attempt to understand how music ties into people's memories. Project spokesperson Dr. Catriona Morrison says that it's generally been thought that when people couldn't recall something from the past, it was because it wasn't adequately logged in the brain. But the fact that music can spark memories shows that the problem is more likely with retrieval methods rather than the memory planting process. The Beatles memories are being presented at the British Association For The Advancement Of Science this week in Liverpool. If you can remember, check out http://www.magicalmemorytour.com for details.
Peter's Busy Writing
Sure Peter Frampton has written 27 complete songs so far for the follow-up to "Fingerprints," his GRAMMY-winning 2006 album, but he wants to have at least 40 tunes ready before the project's done. Pete says, "Everything that is going to be on this next record is like an autobiographical look at me, historically as well as looking toward the future, and my observations along the way."
A Bowie Comp Of His Own Making
A David Bowie compilation of 12 songs he chose himself will be released on October 14th. "iSELECT: Bowie" was originally given away with copies of the June 29th "United Kingdom's Mail On Sunday" newspaper. It will now be available on CD and as a digital download.
Quote Of The Day
It was A.A. Milne who said: "Did you ever stop to think and forget to start again?"
Monster Truck Madness
This Thursday, 8pm: Grunting, fire-breathing Monster Trucks leaping through the air in front of the main grandstand at the L.A. County Fair! While the Bounty Hunter and Jurassic Attack might not be poetic, when you're talking heavy horsepower, you know yer Unc will be there.