Back in the old days, music was recorded in an actual recording studio on analog tape machines. In the early days of the Beatles, engineers wore white lab coats and neckties. Experimentation was frowned upon and only certain approved personnel could touch the knobs. There was no school to learn the process of sound or … More Recording Engineers
Another hard to believe album that is 50 years old. Released in 1971, this was a McCartney solo album, before Wings, but made in partnership with wife Linda. That partnership was scoffed at by his publishing company, and some in the industry, who were not convinced that she was a real songwriter. Linda McCartney took … More Ram: Paul & Linda McCartney at 50 Years
What a great mix of musical styles. Pop, rock, heavy metal, R&B, blues. This was the singer-songwriter era too, the laidback Southern California sound. Carole King would have the largest selling album with Tapestry, the touchstone for the singer-songwriter generation. Other landmark albums were: Led Zeppelin IV, Fragile, Who’s Next, Sticky Fingers, Aqualung, What’s Going … More 1971: Music From 50 Years Ago
Yes, even The Beatles had songs that did not fully register at the time. Great songs overlooked, edged-out by more popular or promoted songs. A dozen (there are many more), but here are 12 that quickly come to mind. “No Reply” – From Beatles for Sale (1964), written most by Lennon while on holiday. Offered … More The Beatles: 12 Under-Appreciated Songs
After reviewing McCartney III, I felt the need to return to Paul McCartney’s two previous studio albums to give them a fresh listen. So this blog is about New (2103)and Egypt Station (2018). From my previous blogs, you might gather than I have been less than impressed by McCartney’s work in the new millennium. Competent, … More New and Egypt Station (Paul McCartney)
I was reluctant to purchase this, the latest music from Sir Paul, so I haven’t. It was loaned to me. Paul’s music in the 2000s has been disappointing to me. Sorry, but it is lackluster compared to his best work. I hold him to a high standard, the one he established. My main complaint with … More McCartney III
Imagine the world without The Beatles. I cannot. We would be deprived of such incredible music, yes, but the loss would be so much more than that. From the moment The Beatles arrived in America, the Earth spun with a different groove. “She Loves You” had such energy and enthusiastic vocals, yeah, yeah, yeah. Not … More The Beatles
Screaming kids in the early and mid 1960s, the British Invasion had arrived. The Beatles are the best known band to reach shore, but there were other groups that captivated Americans and sent songs up the chart. A couple of weeks ago, Chad Stuart of Chad & Jeremy, passed away at age 79. Between 1964 … More Gerry Marsden Remembered
When I get older losing my hair Many years from now Will you still be sending me a Valentine Birthday greetings bottle of wine Written by Paul McCartney when he was just 16 years old. Quite a mature view from a teenager in Liverpool, England. In case you are wondering, Paul still has most of … More When I’m Sixty-Four
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
