Currently browsing: Music
Just think of all the music that’s distinctly American. Jazz. Rock and roll. Motown. The blues. Zydeco. (And if we didn’t invent it here, we found a way to make it better.) We tap our toes, we dance, we thrill to the music of America.
“I (Who Have Nothing)”
I’ve always loved this song. It’s a little melodramatic, sure. But from the time I first heard the Ben E. King original in...
Read More
Sly and the Family Stone
Sly and the Family Stone made some great music. They were trend setters both in the multiracial and multigender composition of the band....
Read More
Garth Brooks
It’s unusual for anyone to quit while at the very top of their profession. Sandy Koufax did it in baseball. Barry Sanders did it in...
Read More
The Beatles on the Ed Sullivan Show
America experienced collective depression as the year 1964 dawned. John Kennedy, a charismatic and much-loved president, had been...
Read More
“Purple Haze”
This is one of those things that make you go, “Hmm.” “Purple Haze” was a groundbreaking single written by Jimi...
Read More
“Will You Love Me Tomorrow,” The Shirelles
“Tonight you’re mine, completely. You give your love so sweetly. Tonight the light of love is in your eyes.” With these...
Read More
“Otis Blue: Otis Redding Sings Soul” Album
I think the honor of America’s greatest R&B singer probably belongs to Marvin Gaye. But who’s the runner-up? Maybe Sam...
Read More
Flatt and Scruggs
Those who know me recognize the boundless enthusiasm, the unbridled pleasure, the limitless excitement I experience upon hearing bluegrass...
Read More
“Dancing in the Street” by Martha and the Vandellas
“Dancing in the Street” came out in 1964, right at the height of the British Invasion. The Beatles held number one from Feb. 1...
Read More
Jimmy Buffett, Singer
Are you a Parrothead? You know you’ve found your planet in the popular music galaxy when your fans have their own name. To me, Jimmy...
Read More