December 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!
December 1, 2008
Singer Eric Bloom of Blue Oyster Cult is 64.
Original Doors drummer John Densmore and
Bette Midler are both 63.
Mark Thompson of Mark & Brian fame is celebrating his birthday today. As a point of interest, when his hero Elvis Presley was Mark's age, Elvis had been dead for many years. Here's to good living!
On this day in 1957, The Ed Sullivan Show featured Buddy Holly & the Crickets and Sam Cooke's television debuts.
On this day in 1968, Big Brother & the Holding Company performed for the last time with Janis Joplin, who then split for a solo career.
On this day in 1970, Santana released the astounding "Abraxas" album.
On this day in 1971, John Lennon and Yoko Ono released "Happy Xmas (War is Over)" in the States.
On this day in 1972, The Edgar Winter Group released the album "They Only Come Out At Night."
On this day in 1973, Aerosmith's "Dream On" peaked at #59 on the charts.
On this day in 1976, the Eagles released the most successful album of their career, "Hotel California."
On this day in 1980, Talking Heads began their big U.K. tour at London's Hammersmith Palais, supported by a very young Irish quartet who called themselves U2.
Live Earth Canceled
In the wake of last week's deadly terrorist attacks in Mumbai, in which nearly 200 people were killed, the giant Live Earth India concert has been canceled. Former Pink Floyd bassist/mastermind Roger Waters and Bon Jovi were among the acts scheduled to appear at the December 7th event. In addition to sending their prayers to the victims' families, Live Earth organizers Kevin Wall and Al Gore say that they will continue to work for solutions to the climate crisis for the good of people in India and around the world.
A Partial Settlement
T-shirts and posters yes, live recordings no. Representatives for Led Zeppelin, The Doors, Carlos Santana, the Grateful Dead and Janis Joplin have partly settled their copyright-infringement case against the Wolfgang's Vault website. Word is that the parties have reached an agreement regarding the sale of merchandise and memorabilia through Wolfgang's Vault, but not the claims pertaining to sound recordings disseminated by the site.
Robby Joins Alice
Doors guitarist Robby Krieger will be performing at Alice Cooper's annual Christmas Pudding charity concert on December 13th in Phoenix. In a totally unrelated Doors story, the new Rock the Phone promotion is giving away a free ringtone of the Doors' classic "Love Me Two Times." Ringtones of other Doors tunes — as well as of tracks by artists including Led Zeppelin, Van Halen, ZZ Top, the Doobie Brothers and Foreigner — are available for purchase via the campaign.
Black Crowes Writing/Not Fighting
After mellowing out their often contentious relationship, Black Crowes guitarist Rich Robinson says he and his brother Chris are busy writing material for a follow-up to this year's "Warpaint" album. And from the way he's talking, don't be surprised if it's an acoustic duo album.
R.I.P. Michael Lee
Michael Lee, the drummer who backed Led Zeppelin's Jimmy Page and Robert Plant in the Nineties, died of a seizure in his home last Monday at the age of 39. Lee appeared on the 1994 Plant & Page live album "No Quarter" as well as their 1998 studio effort "Walking Into Clarksdale." He also worked on Plant's "Fate of Nations" album and tour as well as with The Cult and a touring version of Thin Lizzy.
Quotes Of The Day
It was Harry S. Truman who said: "If you can't stand the heat, get out of the kitchen."
It was Ernest Hemingway who said: "It is awfully easy to be hard-boiled about everything in the daytime, but at night it is another thing."
December 2, 2008
Doobie Brothers/Steely Dan alum Michael McDonald is 56.
Def Leppard bassist Rick Savage is 48.
Britney Spears is 27, very rich and somewhat available.
On this day in 1967, The Beatles' "Hello Goodbye" entered the charts.
Enter The GRAMMY Hall!
Jimi Hendrix's iconic instrumental version of "The Star-Spangled Banner" is among the just-announced 2009 inductees into the GRAMMY Hall of Fame. Queen's "We Are The Champions/We Will Rock You," Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young's "Ohio" and Lynyrd Skynyrd's "Sweet Home Alabama" as well as the entire "Synchronicity" album by The Police are among the 27 other recordings also being recognized. The GRAMMY Hall was created in 1973 and will be the focus of an exhibit at the GRAMMY Museum which opens this Saturday at the L.A. Live complex downtown.
If LP Falls Flat/Sue The Soda Company
So if your 14-years-in-the-making album doesn't sell near the copies you expected in it's first week of release — blame the soda pop company! An attorney for Guns N' Roses has issued a letter lambasting the makers of Dr Pepper for the difficulties fans experienced trying to retrieve the free-soda coupon the company promised in its highly publicized "Chinese Democracy" promotion. In addition, Axl Rose has reportedly called for Dr Pepper to place full-page ads in newspapers to apologize for its failed effort and is looking for additional payment "for the unauthorized use and abuse of their publicity and intellectual-property rights." Yeah, good luck with that.
Robert Plant Says
Heads up Led Zeppelin fans! Robert Plant has officially confirmed that he will be entering the studio with Alison Krauss in January to record another album with the acclaimed musician. “In January, I’m starting to record a new album with Alison Krauss and T Bone Burnett, but I understand that everyone’s got to eat,” Robert said, implying that the Plant-less Led Zep has his blessing. Of course they'll have to pay him royalties till hell won't have it, but...
Timely U2 Update
Yes, they've worked up between 50 and 60 new songs — but only a dozen are likely to make the final cut. The Edge says that U2's new album is, "a record in two halves. One half is songs that came virtually fully-formed out of sessions we did with Brian [Eno] and Danny [Lanois] — stuff we've only played once or twice and that's it... Then the other half is material we've kicked around a while and went through the usual cycle of versions and incarnations." The guitarist says that the latter songs sound like a U2 album, but is nothing like what they've done before or feels like anything else out there at the moment. Some of the tracks in contention for the disc include an epic cut titled "Moment Of Surrender" and a percussion heavy track called "Unknown Caller." U2's 12th studio album, strongly rumored to be called "No Line On The Horizon," may already be set for a February 23rd release. Stay tuned!
Eleanor Brings Big Bucks
Remember the story about Paul McCartney donating a Liverpool City Hospital salary register dated November 30, 1911 to a charity? The document included the signature from an E. Rigby, who worked in the kitchen making just over $67 per year. It's still not known how Sir Paulie came into the paperwork or even learned of it. While last week's Thanksgiving day auction of that real Eleanor Rigby documentation came in far under pre-sale estimates of $750,000, it's cool to know that the imaginary character of Macca's Beatles song "Eleanor Rigby" helped raise $177,000 of real money will go to the Sunbeam Music Trust to provide music therapy for children with special needs and disabilities, adults with Alzheimer's and people with dementia! Now, about that Eleanor Rigby gravestone discovered at St. Peter’s Church in Woolton, Liverpool near Mr. McCartney’s birthplace...
New KISS Coming
Bassist/singer Gene Simmons has confirmed that he and guitarist/singer Paul Stanley are writing songs for a new KISS album. Gene expects the boys to record early next year with Paul handling the production. You can expect a limited tour to coincide with the album's release next Summer. Stay tuned!
Quotes Of The Day
It was W. Edwards Deming who said: "It is not necessary to change. Survival is not mandatory."
It was Mario Andretti who said, "Circumstances may cause interruptions and delays, but never lose sight of your goal."
Toys For Kids!
This Sunday, 10am - 1pm: Unc will return as the Grand Marshal for the 20th Annual Pomona Valley Harley Owners Group Toy Run at the Elks Lodge at 1150 W. 4th Street in Ontario. (Take Mountain Ave. south off the 10 – go right on 4th – then one block to the Lodge.) The line-up will include the KLOS Cool Patrol, bike games, raffles, food, music and – of course – a motorcycle show and toy donations to help kids at Christmas! Here's a glimpse of what it looked like last year.
December 3, 2008
Lovable, heavy metal clown Ozzy Osbourne is 60.
Vocalist Mickey Thomas of the Jefferson Starship is 59.
Guitarist/singer Don Barnes of 38 Special is 56.
On this day in 1965, Keith Richards' guitar accidentally touched his microphone while The Stones performed "The Last Time" in Sacramento. The resulting electric shock knocked Keef unconscious for seven minutes. Of course, the show went on and he never knew the difference.
On this day in 1965, The Beatles began their last U.K. tour in Glasgow, Scotland, supported by The Moody Blues. The Fab Four were promoting the release of the single "We Can Work It Out" backed with "Day Tripper." Wow!
On this day in 1968, NBC-TV aired the famed Elvis Presley comeback special. After years of making horrible movies, Presley proved he could still rock, improvising a set with his old rhythm section in a boxing ring, looking great in black leather and bringing the house down with his performance. Sadly, Las Vegas purgatory was right around the bend.
On this day in 1971, a fire burned down the Montreux Casino in Switzerland during a Frank Zappa concert. Deep Purple witnessed the conflagration and immediately wrote "Smoke on the Water" about the catastrophe. Rock on!
On this day in 1976, a giant inflatable pig was spotted floating over London's Battersea Power Station. It was only a prop being used for the album cover of Pink Floyd's "Animals" album. However, the balloon broke free of its moorings and drifted away, prompting the Civil Aviation Authority to issue a warning to pilots flying over London. No one really knows what happened to the big pig, but crop circles began showing up soon afterward!
On this day in 1976, the Sex Pistols released "Anarchy in the U.K." — perhaps another reason for the existence of crop circles.
On this day in 1979, a stampede of fans trying to get into a Who concert in Cincinnati left 11 people crushed to death. Regrettably, the band wasn't told of the incident until after the show. Although newsman Walter Cronkite blamed the incident on "a drug-crazed mob of kids," the venue's general (no reserved) seating policy was later identified as the cause of the problem.
Sales Sales Sales
Rapper/diva Kanye West's new album that sold over 400,000 copies last week will debut at #1 on the latest "Billboard" charts. Rolling in at #2 will be Guns N' Roses' 14-years-in-production "Chinese Democracy" album, which sold around 256,000 units in its first week of release. As coincidence would have it, Velvet Revolver — comprised of former GN'R members Slash, Duff McKagan and Matt Sorum — topped the charts when their 2004 debut album sold 256,000 copies in its first week of release. It's true — timing is everything.
Elty & Billy
Elton John and Billy Joel, the most successful and longest-running concert pairing in pop history, will reunite for a Face 2 Face tour beginning next March. Sir Elty and Billy will open their concerts with a series of duets, playing twin pianos and trading vocals. Each artist then performs a set with his own band, and a grand finale brings the two superstars and their supporting musicians back together for a closing encore. Our first chance to see the boys duet will be on March 28th at the Honda Center in Anaheim.
Here Come The Pretenders
The Pretenders have initially scheduled 32 U.S. tour dates in support of their new album, "Break Up The Concrete." As for Southland dates, you can expect Chrissie Hynde and her band to hit The Grove Of Anaheim on March 8th and The Wiltern on March 10th.
Jimi's Strap
The original guitar strap Jimi Hendrix used at the 1969 Woodstock Music and Art Festival, as well as at his 1967 Hollywood Bowl show, is expected to sell for between $25,000 and $35,000 on December 11th. Over 500 items will be up for auction by Profiles in History at LiveAuctioneers.com.
Heaven & Hell
Heaven & Hell drummer Vinny Appice says that his Black Sabbath-related band has finished recording most of the songs for its upcoming album. The as-yet-untitled disc should be out in March or April, and, as you'd expect, Vinnie says that "It sounds amazing and it's very heavy." Rock on!
More Nuge Than Ever
Just what you needed! A Ted Nugent Re-Release Extravaganza has been scheduled for February 3rd. "Full Bluntal Nugity," "Nugent," "Penetrator," "Little Miss Dangerous," "If You Can't Lick 'Em… Lick 'Em" and "Spirit Of The Wild" will all be at long last available once again. You may now return to your regularly scheduled life.
Quotes Of The Day
It was Erma Bombeck who asked: "How come anything you buy will go on sale next week?"
It was Lorraine Hansberry who said: "Never be afraid to sit awhile and think."
December 4, 2008
Byrds bassist Chris Hillman is 66.
Beach Boy drummer Dennis Wilson would have been 64.
Lynyrd Skynyrd guitarist Gary Rossington is 57 and glad to be alive.
On this day in 1965, The Byrds hit #1 with the song "Turn! Turn! Turn!" as Simon & Garfunkel's "The Sounds Of Silence" entered the charts.
On this day in 1971, Sly & The Family Stone hit #1 with the song "Family Affair" as Santana's "Everybody's Everything" peaked at #12 and Van Morrison's "Wild Night" topped out at #28 on the charts.
On this day in 1971, Badfinger released the song "Day After Day."
On this day in 1973, Paul McCartney released his classic "Band on the Run" album in the States. It would go on to hit #1 four different times.
On this day in 1976, Tommy Bolin, a brilliant guitarist with James Gang and Deep Purple, died of an overdose in Miami at the age of 25.
On this day in 1980, two months after the death of drummer John Bonham, the surviving members of Led Zeppelin released a statement announcing their intent to break up. It read in part, "We wish it to be known that the loss of our dear friend and the deep respect we have for his family, together with the sense of undivided harmony felt by ourselves and our manager, have led us to decide that we could not continue as we were."
On this day in 1993, Frank Zappa died in L.A. of pancreatic cancer at age 52.
This Sunday night at 9 on 95.5 KLOS, OFF THE RECORD with Joe Benson will feature the music of and conversation with John Lennon as well as more of Joe's conversation with producer Jack Douglas.
GRAMMY GRAMMY Noms
Yeah, yeah... Lil Wayne's eight nominations, Coldplay's seven as well as Kanye West, Jay-Z and Ne-yo with six GRAMMY Award nominations each. More surprising/rewarding was Robert Plant & Alison Krauss's five nominations: Record Of The Year for "Please Read The Letter" (a truly great musical performance), Album Of The Year and Best Contemporary Folk/Americana Album for "Raising Sand," Best Pop Collaboration With Vocals for "Rich Woman" and Best Country Collaboration With Vocals for "Killing The Blues." Can't believe their odds of winning are any better than double nominee Paul McCartney's shot for the Best Male Pop Vocal Performance for his "That Was Me" or the Eagles' (four nominations total) chances at the Best Pop Performance By A Duo Or Group With Vocals for their "Waiting In The Weeds," but it sure is cool that those masters were all recognized. The Eagles also scored a Best Pop Instrumental Performance nomination for their excellent "I Dreamed There Was No War" and a nom for Best Pop Vocal Album (which they should win) for "Long Road Out Of Eden." Bruce Springsteen's "Girls In Their Summer Clothes," Paul McCartney's "I Saw Her Standing There," Eddie Vedder's " Rise" and Neil Young's "No Hidden Path" were all nominated for the Best Solo Rock Vocal Performance GRAMMY. It's hard to say if AC/DC or the Eagles stand a chance at the Best Rock Performance By A Duo Or Group With Vocals for their "Rock N Roll Train" and "Long Road Out Of Eden" since the Kings Of Leon look like a lock. But why AC/DC wasn't nominated for the Best Hard Rock Performance like Mötley Crüe were for their "Saints Of Los Angeles" doesn't make any sense. Rush's "Hope (Live For The Art Of Peace)" and David Gilmour's "Castellorizon" are up for the Best Rock Instrumental Performance. The Kings Of Leon will likely take the Best Rock Song award for their "Sex On Fire" over Springsteen's "Girls In Their Summer Clothes." The 2009 GRAMMY Awards will air on CBS from the Staples Center on February 8th.
The Mac Is Coming
Fleetwood Mac's "Unleashed" North American tour will kick off on March 1st in Pittsburgh, with many more dates (including Southland gigs) to be announced soon. The adventure will coincide with the release of a special CD/DVD edition of the Mac's classic "Rumours" album. Stay tuned!
Kanye/Taylor/Axl
Two things about Kanye West and Taylor Swift: they're each a lot prettier than Axl Rose and they each sold more copies of their albums last week than Axl. Yes, Guns N' Roses' "Chinese Democracy" debuted at #3 on the Billboard 200 behind the younger West and Swift. Meanwhile, the makers of Dr Pepper issued a statement expressing disappointment at the criticism leveled at them by GN'R's attorneys following the difficulties fans had retrieving the online coupon for a free soda as the payoff of the soda company's "Chinese Democracy"-themed promotion. But really, what were they expecting?
Kristen As Joan
Kristen Stewart, star of the hit vampire flick "Twilight," has signed on to play Joan Jett in "The Runaways," a movie about the Seventies all-girl band the Runaways. Jett herself will executive-produce the film about the teenagers' meteoric rise to semi-fame and bitter breakup four years later. Writer-director Floria Sigismondi hopes to start shooting the movie next year, working around Stewart's schedule filming a pair of "Twilight" sequels.
Jim Morrison's Dad Passes On
George Morrison, the father of Doors singer Jim Morrison, passed away on November 17th at the age of 89. In failing health since the 2005 death of his wife Clara, the former rear admiral in the U.S. Navy died of natural causes.
Quotes Of The Day
It was William Shakespeare who said: "Love all, trust few, do wrong to none."
It was Winston Churchill who said: "I like pigs. Dogs look up to us. Cats look down on us. Pigs treat us as equals."
December 5, 2008
Walt Disney would be 107 and not allowed to work at his own company.
Rock & Roll Icon Little Richard is 76.
Reclusive guitar picker/blues growler J.J. (Jean Jacques) Cale (who wrote "After Midnight" and "Cocaine") is 70.
Guitarist Jim Messina of Buffalo Springfield and Loggins & Messina fame is 61.
On this day in 1964, The Beatles' "I Feel Fine" and "She's A Woman" entered the charts as "Time Is On My Side" by The Rolling Stones peaked at #6.
On this day in 1968, Graham Nash officially left The Hollies to form Crosby, Stills & Nash.
On this day in 1970, Badfinger's "No Matter What" peaked at #8 on the singles chart as "Share The Land" by the Guess Who topped out at #10.
On this day in 1973, Paul McCartney released his classic "Band On The Run" album.
On this day in 1981, "Every Little Thing She Does Is Magic" by The Police peaked at #3 on the charts.
On this day in 1987, R.E.M.'s song "The One I Love" peaked at #9 on the charts.
On this day in 2003, Mick Jagger, famed frontman for The Rolling Stones, was officially knighted by Prince Charles. Instead of a top hat and tails, Sir Michael wore a long leather coat, a purplish scarf and running shoes.
On Stage Tonight
Bryan Adams will be doing his acoustic show at The Wiltern just as Frank Caliendo is cracking everybody up at the Club Nokia tonight.
On Stage Saturday
AC/DC will be rocking The Forum as Cheech & Chong are tearing everyone up at the Gibson Amphitheatre.
Saluting Pete, Roger & Babs
The Who's Pete Townshend and Roger Daltrey along with Barbra Streisand are among those being recognized this weekend as 2008 Kennedy Center Honors recipients. The annual event celebrates artists who have made significant contributions to American music and culture. The Honors recipients will be formally recognized with events this weekend, including a White House reception on Saturday and an all-star tribute concert on Sunday. The Honors Gala will be taped, and CBS will broadcast a two-hour special on December 30th.
Metallica's Sewing Machine
Never in my 40+ years on the air have I heard of a band owning/autographing/selling a sewing machine. Maybe that's why all the members of Metallica signed the Huskystar C20 being raffled off (only $5 per ticket!) in a fundraiser for the Wee Scotty fashion shop and school in San Francisco. Besides Metallica, the company boasts The Rolling Stones, Madonna and The B52s among its clientele. There's probably some line that would leave us all in stitches about guitarist James Hetfield and "don't thread on me," but you'll have to work it up on your own!
Doors To Sundance
The Doors documentary "When You're Strange" will finally get its world premiere on January 17th at the Sundance Film Festival, and then will be screened again at the Berlin International Film Festival in February. Director Tom DiCillo says that the band's three surviving members have all endorsed the movie, which in itself is a major accomplishment.
No Lynott Flick
The initial press releases for a proposed biopic about Thin Lizzy's late frontman Phil Lynott seemed "unseemly" at best. Turns out that the group's surviving members thought even less of the project and have killed it. Guitarist Scott Gorham said, "When we looked at the script, it was full of truths and half-truths — and Hollywood's take on Phil's life was all about drugs... We want to veer people towards the music of Phillo and Thin Lizzy." And so it goes in Hollywood-land.
A Thought For The Weekend
How come it takes so little time for a child who is afraid of the dark to become a teenager who wants to stay out all night?
December 6, 2008
Guitarist Peter Buck of R.E.M. is 52.
Ozzy Osbourne's legendary guitarist Randy Rhodes would have been 52.
On this day in 1949, legendary blues balladeer Leadbelly (Huddy Ledbetter) died from Huntington's disease at the age of 61.
On this day in 1965, The Rolling Stones recorded "Mother's Little Helper" and "19th Nervous Breakdown" in RCA's Hollywood studios.
On this day in 1965, The Beatles released their "Rubber Soul" album and the single "Day Tripper."
On this day in 1966, The Beatles recorded two takes of "When I'm 64," marking the first Abbey Road session for "Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band."
On this day in 1969, The Rolling Stones put on a poorly organized free concert at California's Altamont Speedway supported by the Jefferson Airplane. While The Stones performed "Under My Thumb," a Hell's Angel killed a concert goer by stabbing him in the back. The era of Peace & Love was over.
On this day in 1977, Jackson Browne released his classic "Running On Empty" album.
On this day in 1986, practicing alcoholic and occasional drummer Ringo Starr agreed to be a pitchman for a wine cooler company, thus becoming the first Beatle to get into advertising.
On this day in 1988, Rock & Roll icon Roy Orbison died from cardiac arrest at the age of 52.
December 7, 2008
Song meister Harry Chapin would have been 66.
Song growler Tom Waits is 59.
On this day in 1962, The Rolling Stones auditioned bass players at the World's End pub in Chelsea, London. Bill Wyman later said he got the job, in part, because he had real, functioning amplifiers that the band could use.
On this day in 1981, The Rolling Stones released their song "Waiting On A Friend" nine full years after they recorded the initial basic tracks.
On this day in 1985, the song "My Hometown" by Bruce Springsteen entered the charts as Heart's "Heart" album hit #1.
On this day in 1991, Nirvana's classic "Smells Like Teen Spirit" single was released.
December 8, 2008
Singer/iconic bad boy Jim Morrison of The Doors would have been 65.
Singer/keyboardist/iconic bad boy Gregg Allman is 61.
On this day in 1979, the Eagles' "The Long Run" entered the singles chart as AC/DC's "Highway To Hell" peaked at #47.
On this day in 1980, John Lennon was murdered at the age of 40 in New York City.
On this day in 1995, four months after the death of the iconic Jerry Garcia, the Grateful Dead officially called it quits.
On this day in 1998, Bruce Springsteen announced that he would tour with The E Street Band for the first time in nearly a decade.
On Stage Tonight
AC/DC will be rocking the walls down again tonight at The Forum!
Jim To Celebrate Jim At Barney's
To celebrate what would have been Jim Morrison's 65th birthday today, the famed L.A. hangout Barney's Beanery will dedicate a plaque on the exact spot where Morrison once urinated on the bar. Fellow Doors Ray Manzarek and Robby Krieger will be in attendance, and will sign copies of the band's new "Live At The Matrix 1967" album. Our own Jim Ladd will host a special live broadcast from Barney's on 95.5 KLOS. Let's just hope Mr. Ladd doesn't try to recreate Mr. Morrison's infamous demonstration of poor aim!
Satriani Versus Coldplay
Guitar virtuoso Joe Satriani is held in the highest regard by musicians around the world, each of his recorded efforts is analyzed to the n-th degree and his inventive soloing is often compared directly with guitar god Jeff Beck. The ultra-successful British band Coldplay, who have been hit with plagiarism accusations throughout their career, are superb songwriters, albeit not of the hard rocking genre. But lo and behold, last Friday Satriani filed a copyright infringement suit against Coldplay, accusing them of stealing "substantial original portions" of his 2004 song "If I Could Fly" for their own GRAMMY-nominated hit "Viva La Vida!" Satch is seeking a jury trial, damages and "any and all profits attributable to the alleged copyright infringement" — which, considering the album and the single were among the biggest sellers in 2008 as well as the centerpiece of an Apple iTunes campaign, could be tens of millions of dollars! And yes my friends, the hook to "Viva" is almost exactly the same as the guitar lick in "If I Could Fly" — check it out for yourself by searching YouTube for "Did Coldplay Copy Joe Satriani." And stay tuned!
The Secret Policeman's Balls
First staged in 1976, The Secret Policeman's Balls were a legendary series of British variety shows staged to raise funds for Amnesty International. They featured the cream of Britain's comedians and musicians, laying the groundwork for later high-profile charity events including Live Aid. After years of publishing and copyright hassles, a 3-DVD set has been compiled of performances from the five biggest Balls. Due out on January 27th, the set includes historic "unplugged" performances by Pete Townshend of The Who, Phil Collins, Peter Gabriel, Sting's first solo gig away from The Police, Jackson Browne and Lou Reed. among others. Rare duets from guitar legends Eric Clapton & Jeff Beck and Mark Knopfler & Chet Atkins as well as comedy from the likes of Monty Python's John Cleese, Michael Palin, Terry Jones, Graham Chapman and Terry Gilliam are also included.
Tyler's Switcharoo
Nothing like changing the name of a company after you've just gotten the most publicity of your life. When Aerosmith frontman Steven Tyler made his scheduled appearance last week at the New England International Auto Show in Boston, he announced that his Red Wing Motorcycle Company has been renamed Dirico Motorcycles. The new name comes from the company's chief engineer (Tyler's brother-in-law), Mark Dirico. Eight of the Tyler designed Dirico bikes were on display at the exhibition. Gotta wonder who's lawyer didn't follow-up on that due diligence requirement.
Tull Plays Mumbai
Last Friday night, Jethro Tull played in Mumbai, India, site of the horrifying recent terror attacks. Frontman Ian Anderson said that even with warnings and airport alerts, the group still performed because "hiding under the bed is not really an option." As planned, Tull played some of their classics, a little acoustic music and some specially-written new material for a collaboration with Anoushka Shankar. As you'd expect, the proceeds went to local charities.
Elmer Valentine R.I.P.
Elmer Valentine, the man credited for putting the Sunset Strip on the map, died in his sleep last Wednesday at the age of 85. In 1960, after a stint as a Chicago Police Detective, he first opened PJ's on the Strip, and then the Whisky A Go-Go. After the Whiskey became a prototype for all rock clubs around the world, Elmer helped open the Rainbow Bar & Grill and the Roxy next door. There hasn't been one L.A. band — from The Doors to Van Halen to Motley Crue — that didn't owe him everything for getting them started. Rest in peace Elmer, may God's backstage bouncers just pass you on through.
Quotes Of The Day
It was Dorothy Parker who said: "The cure for boredom is curiosity. There is no cure for curiosity."
It was Dr. Seuss who said: "Unless someone like you cares a whole awful lot, Nothing is going to get better. It's not."
December 9, 2008
The Band's bassist and co-lead singer, Rick Danko, would have been 65.
Dennis Dunaway, bassist with the original Alice Cooper band, is 60.
On this day in 1967, Cream's classic "Disraeli Gears" album entered the charts.
On this day in 1972, Elton John released his "Crocodile Rock" single.
On this day in 1974, John Lennon stopped by the broadcast booth during the "Monday Night Football" game between the Los Angeles Rams and the Washington Redskins. While he was there, another guest, Ronald Reagan, explained the rules of football to him.
On this day in 1992, bassist Bill Wyman formally announced he was leaving The Rolling Stones. Since then, he has flown on airplanes only three times.
On this day in 1995, The Beatles "Anthology Vol. 1" became the group's 16th #1 charting album — 24 years after they broke up!
Sliding Down A Slippery Slope
Just one week after the release of Guns N' Roses' 13-years-in-the-making "Chinese Democracy" album, it's dropped out of Billboard's Top 10. With second week sales under 80,000 units, do you think Axl Rose will take credit for not promoting the project?
All Hail The Who
Sunday night's Kennedy Center Honors was easily the strangest in its 31-year history. For the first time ever, Washington's most glitzy event celebrated a legendary rock act — one of the greatest (and loudest) rock bands ever! Sure they paid tribute to George Jones and Barbra Streisand, actor Morgan Freeman and choreographer Twyla Tharp, but the loudest ever portion of the event was the honorable nod given to The Who. Attired in black tie formal wear, the crowd of 2,300 in the capitol's Opera House included Secretary of State Condoleeza Rice, former Secretary of State Madeleine Albright, Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi and Newt Gringrich. But the first real clue that things weren't normal was Jack Black's introduction of The Who: "When I first heard them in 1979, it hit me like a torpedo in my third eye. It was a collection of ass-kicking songs the likes of which we'll never see again. And it's about time they get some sweet-ass recognish." Joss Stone slinked through "My Generation," former Soundgarden/Audioslave singer Chris Cornell took on "Won't Get Fooled Again," soul singer legend Bettye LaVette sang a bluesy "Love Reign O'er Me" and Foo Fighter Dave Grohl ripped the hell out of "Who Are You," disturbing many in the crowd with his emphasis on specific lyrics. Rob Thomas' cover of "Baba O'Riley" was saved when the flashing, lighted Union Jack backdrop parted to reveal an army of New York fire fighters and police — the same who attended the 9-11 concert that reunited the three remaining members of The Who. "This is a great thrill," guitarist/songwriter Pete Townshend told the press. Singing icon Roger Daltrey said, "I am deeply touched at receiving this honor, the warmth and affection I feel from our U.S. audience is humbling indeed."
Semi-Secret Brucely Secrets Revealed
A few more details have leaked out about Bruce Springsteen's upcoming album, "Working On A Dream." Word is that the album will feature keyboard work from the late E Street Band member Danny Federici, who passed away in April. And Danny's son Jason also contributed to the project. The upcoming album's opening track is expected to be the epic, eight-minute tune "Outlaw Pete." Two other songs — "Tomorrow Never Knows" and "What Love Can Do" — are both under three-minutes in length. "Working On A Dream" will hit stores on January 27th.
The Percussive Poet
The Body Shop, one of the most famous strip clubs in Los Angeles was heavily damaged by fire last week. Among other things, the club was well known for being the very place where Motley Crue shot their "Girls, Girls, Girls" video, and the club was even mentioned in the song itself. Turns out that drummer Tommy Lee was the first to e-mail the sad news to his bandmates, in the process composing the quote of the week: "Let's put our zippers at half mast." How interesting and unusual that Tommy didn't use even one obscenity in that entire sentence!
Fogerty's DVD
"Comin' Down The Road," the DVD capturing John Fogerty's June 2008 performance at London's Royal Albert Hall, is set for an early 2009 release. The gig marked the former Creedence Clearwater Revival frontman's first gig at the famous venue in 37 years. When you see it, watch for the extremely close work between John and drummer Kenny Aronoff — truly classic stuff!
Quotes Of The Day
It was Raymond E. Feist who said: "Every person you encounter, whom you interact with, is there to teach you something. Sometimes it may be years before you realize what each had to show you."
It was Abraham Lincoln who said: "People are just about as happy as they are willing to be."
Strange But Deadly
* In 453 AD, Attila the Hun bled to death from a nosebleed on his wedding night.
* In 1923, jockey Frank Hayes had a heart attack during a race. His horse, Sweet Kiss, won the event, making Hayes the only deceased jockey ever to win a race.
* In 1927, actress Isadora Duncan was killed by accidental strangulation when her scarf got caught in a car wheel.
* In 1983, 71-year-old author/playwright Tennessee Williams choked to death on a nose spray bottle cap that accidentally dropped into his mouth while he was using the spray.
Now, have a nice day!
December 10, 2008
Yer Uncle Joe is looking for a cake with a whole lotta candles on it today!!
On this day in 1965, the Warlocks played their first gig under the name Grateful Dead at the second San Francisco Mime Troupe Appeal Party at the Fillmore Auditorium.
On this day in 1966, the Beach Boys hit #1 with the song "Good Vibrations."
On this day in 1967, guitarist/song meister Steve Miller shocked the music industry when his hitherto unknown Blues Band signed with Capitol Records for a (then) whopping $750,000. Steve soon dropped the "Blues" portion of his group's name and eventually returned Capitol's investment with hits like "The Joker" and "Fly Like An Eagle."
On this day in 1967, soul singing legend Otis Redding and four members of the R&B group the Bar-Kays were killed when their tour plane crashed into Lake Monona near Madison, Wisconsin. Redding was just 26, and his posthumous single "(Sittin' on) The Dock of the Bay" hit #1 soon after his death.
On this day in 1976, the live, triple-album set "Wings Over America" by Paul McCartney & Wings was released.
On this day in 1983, Pat Benatar's "Love Is A Battlefield" peaked at #5 as John Mellencamp released his fourth Top 10 hit, "Pink Houses."
On this day in 1984, the single "Do They Know It's Christmas" entered the U.K. charts at #1. It had been recorded by Band Aid, a group of musicians gathered by Boomtown Rats singer Bob Geldof to raise funds for the starving people in Ethiopia. The success of the effort lead directly to the huge Live Aid concerts and "We Are The World" single.
On this day in 1988, Van Halen's song "Finish What Ya Started" peaked at #13 on the charts.
On this day in 1999, bassist Rick Danko of The Band, died in his sleep in Woodstock, New York after celebrating his 56th birthday.
This Sunday night at 9 on 95.5 KLOS, OFF THE RECORD with Joe Benson will feature the music of Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young as well as more of Joe's conversation with Graham Nash and Stephen Stills.
Jonesy Stays Busy
The baton Led Zeppelin bassist/keyboardist John Paul Jones used to famously conduct an orchestra during the Foo Fighters' performance at the 2008 GRAMMY Awards is now up for sale. It comes in its original wooden case which was signed by Jones and all four members of the Foos. Zip over to eBay to make your bid right now as the MusicCares charity auction ends tomorrow. In other Jonesy news, he's teaming up with Sonic Youth and violinist/composer Takehisa Kosugi to create the soundtrack for a dance piece to mark avant-garde choreographer Merce Cunningham's 90th birthday. Jones and the other musicians will play the composition live alongside the Merce Cunningham Dance Company at the composition's premiere performances April 16th through the 19th in Brooklyn, New York.
Doobies Go Orange
The Doobie Brothers will be headlining the halftime festivities at the Orange Bowl on New Year's Day. The game itself will feature the University of Cincinnati facing off against Virginia Tech.
Beatles Contract Sold
The Beatles' first contract has been sold for $211,597. The signed contract from 1962 connected the Fab Four's business to manager Brian Epstein. It boasts a pair of John Lennon's autographs since the singer inadvertently signed in the wrong place, crossed out that signature and then resigned in the proper location. The contract also features George Harrison and Paul McCartney's fathers' signatures since, at the time, the two musicians were under the age of 21. No word on who was the high bidder in the auction, but don't expect to see the contract in public again for a long, long time.
Saving Bob's Room
The New York City Buildings Department is trying to save the room at the Chelsea Hotel where Bob Dylan wrote his classic "Sad-Eyed Lady Of The Lowlands." The room was set to undergo massive renovations when the Buildings Department issued a stop-work order, claiming the hotel was "doing work beyond its permit's scope." While preservationists admit that it's unlikely "Dylan's room can be returned to its former glory," they say "At least these vandals shouldn't be allowed to profit from their depraved act of destruction." When it comes to depraved acts, the Chelsea Hotel has certainly seen its share over the years.
Own Elvis' Jet!
Forget the carbon footprint, if what you need is one of Elvis Presley's jets — you're in luck! The King's 1962 private Lockheed Jet is going up for sale at next week's 35th Annual Las Vegas Car Auction. While Elvis owned a number of planes in his lifetime, this is the only one in private hands. They say it has never been restored and features all original detailing, which means it's probably thrashed, but it's expected to sell for between $700,000 and $2 million.
Quotes Of The Day
It was Dave Barry who said: "The one thing that unites all human beings, regardless of age, gender, religion, economic status or ethnic background, is that, deep down inside, we ALL believe that we are above-average drivers."
It was Carl Sandburg who said: "Time is the coin of your life. It is the only coin you have, and only you can determine how it will be spent. Be careful lest you let other people spend it for you."
Eight Lessons Of Maturity
1. Whatever hits the fan will not be evenly distributed.
2. No matter how much you care, some people are just jackasses.
3. Depression is merely anger without enthusiasm.
4. It is not what you wear, it is how you take it off.
5. Do not sweat the petty things, and do not pet the sweaty things.
6. We are responsible for what we do, unless we are celebrities.
7. There is a fine line between genius and insanity.
8. The people you care most about in life are taken from you too soon and all the less important ones just never go away. The real pains-in-the-ass are permanent.