Elvis Costello – Ticket 2 Ride

Lucinda Williams’ Don’t Tell Anybody the Secrets I Told You (book review)

May 12, 2023

I can’t believe that singer Lucinda Williams is 70 years old! Thankfully, she is showing no signs of slowing down, and she’s just released her memoirs. Don’t Tell Anybody the Secrets I Told You (2023, Crown Publishing) has just been released and it’s as introspective and haunting as her music. “Too country for rock and … More Lucinda Williams’ Don’t Tell Anybody the Secrets I Told You (book review)

Three Great Consecutive Musical Albums Released (my list of 20)

May 10, 2023

The challenge has been accepted, three consecutive studio albums released by artist or band. My top 20 list of consecutive releases. No live or greatest hits allowed. The list of course is very subjective and is absent some major artists, and some remarkable albums. No Bob Dylan, Bruce Springsteen, Beach Boys, Grateful Dead or Van … More Three Great Consecutive Musical Albums Released (my list of 20)

Two Minutes or Less

March 10, 2022

No, this isn’t about erectile dysfunction. The other day I posted a blog about songs over 10 minutes in length. A colleague humorously suggested compiling a list of songs that are shorter than two minutes. Okay, let’s do it! I’m placing a caveat that these have to be post- 1960, as in the old days, … More Two Minutes or Less

Top Five Music Memoirs

November 22, 2021

Autobiographies by musicians are usually filled with partying, conquests and namedropping. I’ve read a ton of them and most I’ve forgotten before turning the final page. They are usually quick reads on a weekend, cotton candy for the brain. Even though most are mediocre, that does not stop me from reading them. Here are five … More Top Five Music Memoirs

Singers or Vocalists?

October 27, 2021

It usually takes skill and/or training to be successful at your craft. Talent also helps, but in popular music, there is another factor, the material and the presentation that matter to fans. There are tons of singers, just watch one of of those TV talent shows, most of which you wouldn’t pay money to hear. … More Singers or Vocalists?

Impressive Debut Albums

September 5, 2021

What makes an impressive debut album? A million copies sold? Hit singles? Your face on the cover of Rolling Stone? Having fans and critics stand up and take notice. Lasting impact. The start of something greater. These are ones that are familiar to me. This list is certainly not inclusive and is obviously just my … More Impressive Debut Albums

Music: Hidden Treasures of the 1980s

March 2, 2021

The 1980s was not my favorite decade, especially for music, but there are some hidden treasures. I’ve bypassed the more famous bands and artists in favor of ones that may be a mystery to you. Incredibly, the majority of these artists are still performing today. The 1980s was a strange decade for music. Radio format … More Music: Hidden Treasures of the 1980s

Interactions with Famous Musicians

February 27, 2021

I’ve had the opportunity to meet a variety of musicians over the years. I collect autographs and have built up a nice collection. The opportunity to have an interaction, although usually brief, has been a great thrill. Celebrities understand that fan encounters are part of the game, although it no doubt gets weary and can … More Interactions with Famous Musicians

Elvis Costello: Hey Clockface

January 20, 2021

Singer/songwriter Elvis Costello long ago decided to keep from repeating himself. His career has taken many turns, ups and downs, changes of direction, different musical partners, and incorporated changing influences. On his 2020 release, Hey Clockface, he returns with an eclectic collection of musical styles and ideas. I sampled reviews from critics about this album … More Elvis Costello: Hey Clockface

Best Songwriters

November 11, 2020

Who are the best songwriters? There are many to choose from. There are some great songwriting teams, but I am only going to talk about individuals who write both music and lyrics. These are in no particular order. Bob Dylan – Bob has been at it for nearly 60 years. He is not a great … More Best Songwriters

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Category: Elvis Costello