For the fall television lineup in the fall of 1975, a brand new show made it’s debut, Welcome Back Kotter, among it’s cast, a young John Travolta who portrayed Vinnie Barbarino. Now just where did that last name come from? Turns out the John had a close friend who was an executive in the record…
In August of 1968, a chartbuster sweeping the nation, was “Girl Watcher” by THE O’KAYSIONS, who hailed from Kenly, North Carolina, featuring lead vocalist / keyboardist Donnie Weaver. The song was recorded earlier that year at Sound Studio in Greenville NC, initially released on the regional North State label, and by summer of 68′ became…
This week we rock, roll, reminisce, and turn back the time machine to 1972, with the tunes that were blaring out of transistor radios, as we tune into the ‘big hits’ survey of WAKY Radio in Louisville, Kentucky.
With much ‘R-e-s-p-e-c-t,’ recalling The Queen Of Soul, ARETHA FRANKLIN, as this week we mark the 3rd anniversary of her passing (August 16, 2018). Sharing a few reflections on her career, she was gifted with talent, evident in her first recordings as a teenager, to her signing in 1960 with Columbia Records. Unfortunately, while Aretha…
In 1965, at the height of the British Invasion and the reign of Motown, BARBARA HARRIS and THE TOYS spent six weeks at #1 with “A Lovers Concerto.” This week, Barbara celebrates her 76th birthday on August 18. Back in 2015, I was honored honor to meet her, and the act in Hazleton PA. They…
Hard to believe that this year marks the 52th anniversary of Woodstock, heralded as the forerunner of the term ‘rock festival.’ Held on Max Yasgur’s farm near Bethel N.Y., for three days, August 15-18, 1969, those in attendance (…estimated at over 500,000) were greeted by performances of an astonishing 32 acts, ranging from Richie Havens…
This week we rock, roll, reminisce, and turn back the time machine to 1967, with the tunes that were blaring out of transistor radios, as we tune in the ’40 star super hit’ survey of WHB in Kansas City, Missouri.
Growing up in Philadelphia, during the tidal wave of what was termed as ‘Beatlemania,’ I was a young lad of seven. After seeing THE BEATLES on The Ed Sullivan Show in February 1964, I was caught up in all the frenzy to come. My trips home from school involved daily stops to the candy store,…
It was the runaway box office hit for the year 1988, the movie ‘Dirty Dancing,’ and just as exciting as it’s plot with stars Patrick Swayze and Jennifer Gray, was the music soundtrack. In particular, the song “Do You Love Me” by THE CONTOURS, which had went to #3 on Billboard’s Hot 100 in 1962,…
Remembering vocalist and TV impresario AL ALBERTS, of THE FOUR ACES, on the anniversary of his birthday August 10 (he passed in 2009, age 87) . Starting in 1951, with “It’s No Sin,” the ‘aces’ graced the pop charts with a string of hits, on to Al’s solo career starting in 1957. He was an…
As the british invasion was in full swing during 1965, in Canada a new act made their mark in the US, with a catchy band name THE GUESS WHO?, and a spirited record “Shakin’ All Over.” The gentleman who played bass guitar was JIM KALE, placing his creative grooves on the group’s hits such as…
I’ll go ‘on the record’ here, as a serious record collector since 1961 (at age of four), it all started on Christmas day, with a record player and stack of 45s, and I never looked back. Collecting records, became a way of life for me, as my personal collection is currently a modest 25,000 singles,…
In August 1968, it was announced that The Beatles had formed Apple Records, (becoming a division of Apple Corps LTD.), as an effort to release output not only by the band, but solo entities, and in developing artists. The first commercial release on Apple was “Hey Jude” (issued August 26,1968 – with Capitol catalog number…
It was in August 1965, when the Ohio based group THE MC COYS, would release a song that would capture the country by storm debuting on Billboard’s Hot 100 at #99, and finally reaching #1 in October- “HANG ON SLOOPY.” The tune was a spinoff of a song recorded earlier in 1964 by The Vibrations…
This week We rock, roll, reminisce, and turn back the time machine to 1973, with the tunes that were blaring out of transistor radios, as we tune into the ‘big hit survey’ of WHYN Radio in Springfield, Massachusetts.
Remembering DORIS COLEY (Kenner-Jackson) of THE SHIRELLES, who would have celebrated her 80th birthday on Aug 2. (she passed on February 4,.2000). In 1958, Doris sang lead vocal on the act’s first major release “I Met Him On A Sunday” on the Tiara label (later issued on Decca), resulting in a string of hits on…
When you think about male song stylists, who have made a lasting imprint on the great American songbook, a few names come to mind… Frank Sinatra, Sammy Davis Jr, Elvis Presley, Nat King Cole, Sam Cooke, and a handful more, those who could virtually take any song and make it their own. One of the…
We’re goin’ hoppin!’… on August 5, 1957, the TV show AMERICAN BANDSTAND, with host Dick Clark, went into national syndication, emanating from WFIL in Philadelphia PA. Following the earlier departure of Bob Horn in 1956, Clark had embraced the show, and made rock and roll music more palatable to the masses. Even though many top…
For us kids who were in our teens in 1973, the movie AMERICAN GRAFFITI gave us a perspective of what we were missing growing up, and this time travel back to life and times in 1962, was nothing but sheer fun, high school hi-jinks, and the music soundtrack, – well Daddy-O it was the coolest!…
In July 1960, BRIAN HYLAND soared to #1 with a catchy song, and more interesting, it’s lengthy title – “Itsy Bitsy Teenie Weenie Yellow Polka-Dot Bikini” (written by Paul Vance & Lee Pockriss). After this big hit , Brian moved on to ABC Records in 1962, garnering another smash in “Sealed With A Kiss,” and…
This week we rock, roll, reminisce, and turn back the time machine to 1960, with the tunes that were blaring out of transistor radios, as we tune in to the ‘Top 99’ of WIBG in Philadelphia PA.
We were all saddened by the loss of the legendary WILLIE WINFIELD of the HARPTONES this past Tuesday at 6pm. Please join BOBBY JAY THIS SUNDAY AT 7pm ET/4pm PT as he SALUTES THE LIFE AND CAREER of his dear, dear friend WILLIE WINFIELD on www.BossJockRadio.com. This is an EXCLUSIVE & “THE” ULTIMATE TRIBUTE! If…
The Story of “The BeatMakers” Musical Memories With Don Hurley On October 19, 1961 one of the finest super groups ever played a concert for one night only at The Litherton Town Hall in Liverpool, England. The Beatles, comprised of Paul McCartney, John Lennon, George Harrison and Pete Best (prior to Ringo Starr)…
The golden voice of PAT UPTON, is missed “More Today Than Yesterday,” on the 5th anniversary of his passing (July 28), as the original lead singer of SPIRAL STARECASE, left us in 2016 at age 75. Pat and the group burst on the scene with their signature hit song, blaring from AM radios in the…
In between all the teen idols that came and went during the late 1950s into the 60s, there were few that had lasting power – enter PAUL ANKA. Just age fifteen in 1957 when he landed on the scene, scoring his first hit “Diana,” and in rapid fire succession, “Put Your Head On My Shoulder,”…
One of the most fondly recalled songs of the late 1950s, was “Hushabye,” and the group that crooned that one single word, was THE MYSTICS a vocal group that hailed from Brooklyn NY. Group member Al Contrara, has written a poignant book which tells the tale of this quartet, entitled “Hushabye: The Mystics, the Music…
All aboard the bus! On July 29,1959 the initial Dick Clark’s “Caravan Of Stars” 49 day tour took to the open road. On board were Duane Eddy, The Coasters, Bobby Rydell, The Skyliners, Jimmy Clanton, Annette Funicello, The Drifters, La Verne Baker and more…. plus two teenagers from Frackville PA., Joe and Frank Jordan -THE…
It was fifty years ago this week, on July 31,1971, when LEE MICHAELS released his mega hit, in which he popped the question, “Do You Know What I Mean.” The fledging vocalist / keyboardist, had signed to A&M Records in 1967, releasing four albums before his next, aptly titled “5th,”which spawned his first top 10…
This week we rock, roll, reminisce, and turn back the time machine to 1964, with the tunes that were blaring out of transistor radios, as we tune in the ‘young american’ Top 40 survey of WFHG in Bristol, Virginia.
She had an angelic voice with a projection like no other, her name – MAMA CASS ELLIOTT. In 1965, after a stint with The Mugwumps, she and fellow bandmate Denny Doherty teamed up with John and Michelle Phillips, to form THE MAMAS & PAPAS, which yielded a string of hits from 1966-68, including “California Dreamin’…
During the landslide of the British Invasion which took us by storm in 1964, four chaps from England caught on with us thru their pop tunes, such as “Mrs. Brown You’ve Got A Lovely Daughter,” “Can’t You Hear My Heartbeat,” and a string of catchy pop ditties. The band was known as HERMAN’S HERMITS (…fronted…
Growing up in the 1950s-70s, we just couldn’t wait for summer fun, and those family picnics. Just think of the charcoal smell from the grill, and of course…. hot dogs! Since this week we celebrate ‘NATIONAL HOT DOG DAY,’ on July 19, let’s look at a few tunes honoring those delectable delights: “Hot Dog Buddy…
When we think back in time, about the dawning of music festivals, often Monterey Pop and Woodstock are the two that come to mind, but between it all was a series of fests in the summer of 1969, that have never received proper recognition, until now. Ahmir ‘Questlove’ Thompson (… son of the late Lee…
The year was 1968, as we were caught up in the frenzy of new musical sounds, and along with it…. a new trend in band names, such as Strawberry Alarm Clock, Electric Prunes, Chocolate Watch Band, and along comes – IRON BUTTERFLY. Their main claim to fame, would be a song featured on their second…
This week we rock, roll, reminisce, and turn back the time machine to 1957, with the tunes that were blaring out of transistor radios, as we dial into the Top 40 survey of WMCA, New York N.Y.
One of the most profound acts that was embraced by the late 1960s-70s, was THE GRASS ROOTS, and their bassist / vocalist, ROB GRILL. There was a certain charm of their records, upbeat, catchy chorus lyrics, many were augmented by horns, and great musical arrangements. Most amazing was that Rob’s infectious voice, propelled an amazing…
In 1959, four kids from Bronx N.Y. sang their way to stardom, with a little ditty entitled “I Wonder Why,” followed with another million seller, “A Teenager In Love.” Of course, the group was Dion & The Belmonts. In 1960, Dion struck out on his own to kickstart a solo career, and the hits kept…
The year was 1967, and for a short time, the fine folks at Philco, came up with a new technology for us to listen to our favorite tunes via 4” flexi-disc records, played on a tag-along portable compact record player, (which also played conventional 12” LP’s and 7” 45 rpm singles.) The flexi-discs boasted two…
If you had to single out one of the most influential instrumental acts of all time, only one band comes to mind, THE VENTURES. It was 1960, when they put their stamp on a song called “Walk, Don’t Run!’ written, and originally done by Johnny Smith. Their unique ‘sound,’ branding guitars to serenade us with…
Exactly what we needed for the summer of 1966, was the perfect #1 bubbly song with subtle suggestive lyrics… “..my baby does the Hanky Panky!” We were hooked, line and sinker by a young man from Niles, Michigan who recorded that song three years prior. It was the ear of a Pittsburgh DJ named Bob…
This week we rock, roll, reminisce and turn back the time machine to 1964, with the tunes that were blaring out of transistor radios, as we tune in the ’30 Top 30’ survey of WKBK in Keene, New Hampshire.
In the early 1950’s, the vocal duo of Shirley & Lee , meshed r & b, with a new sound known as rock & roll, and by 1956, their single “Let The Good Times Roll,” emphasized those words. After splitting from Leonard Lee in 1963, Shirley embarked on quite a career as an in -demand…
If you had to make a list of ten of the biggest songs of the early rock era, “At The Hop” by DANNY & THE JUNIORS, may be right on top! In late 1957, this vocal quartet from Philadelphia PA, helped to change the landscape of pop music with that song, and it’s follow up…
This summer, as live music and festivals make a return to the foreground of entertainment, we can welcome back the HAPPY TOGETHER tour. Since 1984, headlined by THE TURTLES, this event has featured many of the pop acts who graced Top 40 radio, with some of the most memorable songs of all time. This year’s…
By the summer of 1965, Dick Clark had relocated his ‘American Bandstand ‘show to the west coast, and exhibiting warmth of California sunshine and the beach, with his new afternoon TV series, ‘Where The Action Is!” Featuring hosts Linda Scott and Steve Alaimo. It became a hit with teenagers, and who could forget the catchy…
The year 1966, was a springboard of music that topped the charts, ranging from garage band rock, to the latest british invaders. But thru it all, SHADES OF BLUE , a vocal act from Livonia, Michigan firmly etched their spot at #12 on Billboard in the early summer of 66,’ with their outing of “Oh…
“But they must cry,cry,cry,.. their blues away..” Remembering the man who wrote those immortal lyrics, EUGENE PITT lead singer of THE JIVE FIVE, who passed on June 29, 2018, entering the gate of heavenly harmony at age 80. In 1961, the group burst on the scene with “My True Story,” on Beltone Records, during the…
In 1961, just after graduating from high school, Eddie Rambeau had his first hit “Skin Divin’, “released on Swan Records, but it wasn’t until 1965, when producer Bob Crewe started his Dyno-Voice label, that Eddie enjoyed his first smash, with “Concrete & Clay.” But just as important along the way, was Eddie’s skills as songwriter…
This week we rock, roll, reminisce, and turn back the time machine to 1970, with the tunes that were blaring out of transistor radios, as we dial into the ‘good guy survey’ of WARM in Scranton PA.
With another Fourth Of July holiday greeting us, we often think about songs with titles that imply, freedom and justice for all. With that being said, there are many tunes from the 1950s – 70s, that exemplified the meaning, but unfortunately, mainstream oldies radio has long forgotten. Here’s a few of those tunes: “God, Country,…
Growing up as a pre-teen during the glorious year of 1967, it was a fascinating summer. Many things filled my world, hearing new lingo being used such as ‘psychedelic,’ ‘groovy,’ and ‘far out.’ Fashion was trending from England with the ‘Carnaby Street’ look being popular, and I made sure to follow the trend, sporting my…
In show business, the key to success, is being in the right place at the right time, and it sure was for Herbert Khaury, better known as TINY TIM. In 1968, after years of paving the streets of Greenwich Village in NYC, this falsetto singing troubadour armed with a ukulele, and a songbook of hundreds…
One of the focal points in the early recordings of Buddy Holly & The Crickets, was the talented lead guitar stylings, which were done by Niki Sullivan, whose birthday is this week on June 23. Not widely documented, is that Sullivan’s work graced no less than 27 songs released by the act, and on Buddy…
In 1966, Eddie Floyd recorded a song originally intended for Otis Redding. Good thing that Eddie put his stamp on it, as it was a mega hit, and cemented his place in rock history. On June 25, he celebrates his 84th birthday. Since his inception in the industry in 1959, as a founding member of…
This week we rock, roll, reminisce, and turn back the time machine to 1972, with the tunes that were blaring out of transistor radios, as we tune in the ‘all hit music’ survey of WCFL in Chicago, Illinois.
During the late 1950’s, as many rock and roll tunes became ‘classics,’ when listeners would call radio stations requesting these songs, and dedications to their favorite disc jockey, the term ‘oldies but goodies,’ soon became popular. And the man, given credit to this phrase was ART LABOE, a popular Los Angeles jock, who in the…
One of the greatest songwriters / producers who came to prominence during the 1960’s was BERT BERNS. As songwriter, he was responsible for such eclectic tunes as “Twist & Shout,” “Piece Of My Heart,” and legions of hits recorded by The Jarmels, The Exciters, Solomon Burke, etc. And as producer, by 1964, Berns excelled to…
The 1st wave of ‘Beatlemania’ officially made it’s imprint on Billboard’s Hot 100, June 23, 1963 as we found DEL SHANNON’s cover version of “From Me To You,” the first Lennon-Mc Cartney composition to grace the U.S charts, but unfortunately the public wasn’t quite ready for that Liverpool sound yet, as Del’s version only peaked…
He was the original “Big Man In Town,” TOMMY DE VITO, founding member of THE FOUR SEASONS, who would have celebrated his 93rd birthday on June 19th. Sadly, he passed on September 22, 2020. In the mid 1950’s, Tommy was the backbone of the act, and was aboard at the group’s inception as ‘The Four…
It’s hard to believe the music and magic of Sir Paul Mc Cartney and Brian Wilson, have been a part of our lives for decades, both continuing to embrace us lyrically and musically as solo artists, as we reflect on the body of work they created with, and for their respective acts The Beatles and…
This week we rock, roll, reminisce, and turn back the time machine to 1963, with the tunes that were blaring out of transistor radios, as we dial in the ‘fabulous forty,’ of WAAM in Ann Arbor, Michigan.
When in N. Myrtle Beach SC., just say the words ‘beach music,’ and immediately you’ll hear mentions of acts such as The Swingin’ Medallions, The Tams, Chairmen Of The Board, Bill Deal & The Rhondells, etc. These acts, plus numerous others, along with a dance known as ‘the shag’ (a combination of jitterbug with swing),…
It was one of the highest grossing musical films ever, “Grease” which starred John Travolta, and Olivia Newton-John, was released this week in June 1978. It’s stellar soundtrack boasted Frankie Valli singing the theme song, proclaiming “Grease” is the word! In addition, “You’re The One That I Want,” was a runaway smash sung by the…
“Mac Arthur Park,” penned by Jimmy Webb, and sung by actor RICHARD HARRIS, was a huge Top 40 smash headed up the top ten in early June 1968, and astonishing, was it’s playing time on AM Radio … clocking in at 7:20! By the month of August, Richard was filming the movie “The Molly Maguires”…
It was the early summer of 1963, and the runaway hit at number one in the U.S, was “Sukiyaki,” sung by a Japanese artist named KYU SAKAMOTO (pronounced ‘Q’). Ironically, the song had nothing to do with the delectable Japanese cuisine we are accustomed to, as the original title when first recorded in 1961, was…
One of the most seasoned guitarists during the golden age of rock, who receives little recognition, was HANK GARLAND. Just listen to the twang on “Little Sister” by Elvis, or the charming licks of that perennial Christmas favorite, Bobby Helms “Jingle Bell Rock,” all signatures of Hank Garland. His claim to fame came with humble…
Since 2007, with a renewed fan base of music collectors and listeners, seeking out their quests in the form of vinyl, RECORD STORE DAY has been a great annual event, recognized by many participating record and music outlets across the nation, and abroad. In conjunction, many record labels issue specialty items in limited quantities, released…
This week we rock, roll, reminisce, and turn back the time machine to 1969, with the tunes that were blaring out of transistor radios, as we dial in the ‘hits & hitbound lively lineup’ of WEAM in Arlington, Virginia.
During the early 1960s, THE SHIRELLES were the premier ‘girl group,’ dominating the charts with hits including “Soldier Boy,” “Will You Still Love Me Tomorrow,” and my favorites “Tonight’s The Night,” and “Foolish Little Girl,” naming only a few. As lead singer SHIRLEY ALSTON REEVES, celebrates her 80th birthday this week (June 11), I reflect…
On June 10, 2004, we lost one of the most unique, innovative and creative performers of our time, his name was RAY CHARLES. In my career as musician, broadcaster, promoter, journalist, having worked with many iconic names, I have to say the epitome of my career, was for me to introduce Ray at the Berwick…
On June 1, 1967, when THE BEATLES album ‘Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band,’ was released to the public in the U.S., it was quickly embraced as their finest work to date. Regarded as one of the first ‘concept’ albums, it contained thirteen selections, and even though there wasn’t a 45 rpm single release, the…
She was one of Ray Charles back-up singers ‘The Raelettes,’ in 1963 recorded the original version of “The Shoop Shoop Song” (later covered by Betty Everett), and she was best known as the wailing voice in The Rolling Stones classic song, “Gimme Shelter.” The name of this multi- talented woman, MERRY CLAYTON. As with many…
As rock and roll got it’s feet wet in the late 1950’s, ‘answer songs’ became quite the rage, and among them, by 1960 when The Drifters pleaded to “Save The Last Dance For Me,” Damita Jo shouted back , “I’ll Save The Last Dance For You.” Even county artists jumped on the bandwagon, quite humorous…
This week we rock, roll, reminisce, and turn back the time machine to 1965, with the tunes that were blaring out of transistor radios, as we dial in to the ’40 Star Survey’ of KLIF in Dallas, Texas.
On the birthday roster this week… June 1st the one and only PAT BOONE who sang about “April Love,” turns age 87. On June 2nd, we’ve got a twin spin, as drummer CHARLIE WATTS – Rolling Stones (age 80) shares a birthday with JERRY MATHERS (age 72) of TV ‘Leave It To Beaver’ fame., EDDIE…
Recalling the mega talents of CURTIS MAYFIELD, as we commemorate his birthdate June 3 (died 1999) From his earliest days with Jerry Butler, he turned THE IMPRESSIONS from one of the fondest vocal groups who emerged from the strains of doo-wop in the late 50s, into a stellar soul act of the 60s. Curtis was…
This week we recollect on a Motown legend, GLADYS HORTON of THE MARVELETTES, who passed on in 2011, and would have celebrated a birthday on May 30. She sang the lead vocal on such hits as “Please Mr.Postman,” and “Beechwood 4-5789.” A pleasure for me to have emceed a concert with Gladys in 1994. Also,…
Just Like a rolling stone, BOB DYLAN celebrates birthday # 80 on May 24, sharing that birthdate is one of the first ladies of soul, PATTI LA BELLE (age 77), drummer man GARRY PETERSON of THE GUESS WHO turns 76 on May 26, that ‘fortunate son’ who gave birth to CCR and a stellar solo…
This week we rock, roll, reminisce, and turn back the time machine to 1971, with the tunes that were blaring out of transistor radios, as we dial in the ‘boss 30’ of WFIL in Philadelphia, PA.
If there was one song that helped define the term ‘rock & roll,’ it was “Rock Around The Clock,” and the man who sang the song with much exhilaration when he recorded it in 1954, …. BILL HALEY. A complex individual, and career that catapulted after the release of a movie ‘The Blackboard Jungle,’ Haley…
In the early days of rock and roll, it was a man’s world of movers and shakers in the record business, until the emergence of Florence Greenburg who founded a record label, Scepter Records. In 1957 her daughter had a singing group of friends, known as The Poquellos, and Florence took a shine to the…
This week in May 1969, DENNIS YOST & CLASSICS IV, were moving up the Billboard Hot 100, with a brand new release on Imperial Records, entitled “Everyday With You Girl,” Their winning streak began in late 1967, garnering hits “Spooky,” and it’s follow up “Stormy.” But this act hailing from Jacksonville, Florida, actually netted their…
The Castiles (with Bruce Springsteen on vocals), made their first recordings at Mr Music Inc in Brick Town, New Jersey. They cut two Springsteen songs, ‘Baby I’ and ‘That’s What You Get’. The songs were cut directly to disc, of which seven or eight test pressings of the studio takes were made.
Those two swingin’ California lads, JAN & DEAN, had been cranking out records since their first single “Baby Talk” in 1959, but finally a song released on May 17,1963 would propel them to #1 status. The tune was “Surf City,” and gifted to them by writer Brian Wilson of The Beach Boys, who was also…
We’re off to meet the wizard, in the wonderful world of songwriting and arranging, and his name is JIMMY WISNER. For those of us who grew up during the 1960s of pop music, his credits are legendary, and his name appears on hundreds of records from such artists as Spanky & Our Gang, Len Barry,…
In a day and age when the music listener just has to click their phone, computer or device of choice, to access their favorite tunes, in recent years another blast from the past has retuned, …the cassette tape. As with those who are embracing vinyl records for the first time, curiosity has entered a new…
This week we rock, roll, reminisce, and turn back the time machine to 1958, with the tunes that were blaring out of transistor radios, as we dial in to ‘the top 21’ of WMCA in New York, NY.
In 1965, with Sonny Bono, she sang the words, “I Got You Babe,” and for decades, like a chameleon CHER has continued to dazzle us with her ability to keep the music alive, during an incredible career. This week (May 20) Cher celebrates her 75th birthday. Ironically, her 1989 hit posed the question “If I…
Reflecting on those we lost during this week in time, on May 20th, ROBIN GIBB of THE BEE GEES (2012) who’s gentle soul and voice, guided the noted harmony and songwriting team with his brothers. RAY MANZAREK, keyboard virtuoso of THE DOORS (2013) and the immortal voice of JOE COCKER (2014). Also, early rhythm &…
Bob Dylan made his first major concert UK appearance when he played at the Royal Festival Hall in London with an afternoon show listed as a ‘Folksong Concert’. Dylan’s 18-song set included the live debut of Mr. Tambourine Man and took place on a Sunday afternoon. In the interval, Dylan received a telegram from John…
Mary Wells started a two week run at No.1 on the US singles chart with ‘My Guy’. Written and produced by Smokey Robinson and The Miracles, it made No.5 in the UK.
The diversity of ERIC CLAPTON never surprised us, and on May 10,1974, he slipped into a reggae vibe, recording “I Shot The Sheriff,” a song which was written and recorded the previous year by Bob Marley. Clapton’s version would be included on his album “461 Ocean Boulevard,” and although popular with his fans, the single…
Paul Mc Cartney once cited THE BEACH BOYS album ‘PET SOUNDS,’ as a masterpiece, and became an inspiration for him in creating Sgt.Pepper. Hard to believe in May 2021, it’s now fifty-five years, since the release of what is acclaimed as Brian Wilson’s highest creative peak. The album not only spawned the mega hit “God…
Remember the days when you could sing along to the hits, understood the lyrics, and sometimes if you didn’t memorize them, you would go to your local news stand, grab a copy of ‘Hit Parader’ ? From it’s humble beginnings in 1942, it was basically a song lyric entity, then by the mid -1960s, it…
This week we rock, roll, reminisce, and turn back the time machine to 1960, with the tunes that were blaring out of transistor radios, as we dial in the ‘swingin’ 60 survey’ of KYA in San Francisco, California.
He was a ‘british invader,’ with THE ANIMALS, and later in 1970, subtly instructed us to “Spill The Wine,” with WAR …. ERIC BURDON celebrates b-day 80 on May 11. Back in 1957, Philadelphia PA., introduced it’s very first ‘teen idol’ named CHARLIE GRACIE, who would have hits “Butterfly,” and “Fabulous,” on Cameo Records, he…
The gentleman who we knew with HERMAN’S HERMITS, donning those Buddy Holly styled glasses, guitarist LEK LEKENBY, would have celebrated birthday #78 on May 14 (died in 1994). In 1986, I met Lek, and asked him about the guitar intro of ‘Mrs.Brown.” as Lek explained, “I wanted to get a banjo type sound, so I…
Heading back to this week in 1956, let’s just take a walk down lonely street, to a place called “Heartbreak Hotel,” with that hillbilly cat, we’re hearing a lot about, ELVIS PRESLEY. He gains his first big hit for RCA Records, which goes straight to #1 on Billboard’s Top 100 for 7 weeks, spends 17…
‘Have fun, play drums,’ was the motto of HAL BLAINE, the man who personified rock drumming, and defined the term ‘session drummer.’ In the golden age of the 45rpm single, he performed on hundreds of hits, including 40 reaching #1, and 150 Top 10 hits during the 1960s & 70s. Hal’s unique drum sound, and…
Family Band: The Cowsills Story, a documentary that was released in 2013, and more recently has been streaming on Amazon Prime, is certainly a story of great proportion, and a highly entertaining flick to watch, for anyone who grew up in the mid to late 60s, and enjoys the ‘sunshine pop’ music of that period.…
This week we rock, roll, reminisce, and turn back the time machine to 1965, with the tunes that were blaring out of transistor radios, as we dial in the ‘silver dollar survey’ of WLS in Chicago, Illinois.
Celebrating birthdays this week… it’s a man 4 all seasons, the original Jersey Boy, FRANKIE VALLI turns 87 on May 3. Also that day, the ever zany JERRY SAMULES, age 83 (aka Napoleon XIV), known for his #1 novelty hit that held us ‘captive’ during the summer of 1966, with “They’re Coming To Take Me…
Saluting a number of of rock’s greats, who passed on this week, including HERB COX of TheCleftones (May 6, 2019), as I had the privilege to sing “Little Girl Of Mine” on stage with him in1984, Herb said “Eddie, you sing the bass line,” then he asked me to do the dance step…ouch!It was this…
The Beach Boys opened their US tour on which the co-headliner was Maharishi Mahesh Yogi. The second half of the concert which featured the Maharishi Mahesh Yogi, lectured the audience on “spiritual regeneration.” The reaction was so negative, more than half of the remaining tour dates were cancelled.
The Who gave a press preview of their new rock opera ‘Tommy’ at Ronnie Scott’s in London, England. The double album about a “deaf, dumb and blind boy” who becomes the leader of a messianic movement, was the first musical work to be billed overtly as a rock opera. In 1998 it was inducted into…
Herman’s Hermits started a three week run at No.1 in the US singles chart with ‘Mrs Brown You’ve Got A Lovely Daughter’.
Hi Boss Jock friends! Our next theme is: Songs from 1955 to 1975 that make you happy! Yes… YOU!!! Remember, only 1 request per listener, and please include your hometown. It all starts Monday May3rd at 10am EST / 7am PST on Boss Jock Radio! Listen live on BossJockRadio.com or download our app on the…
The Everly Brothers started a seven week run at No.1 on the UK singles chart with ‘Cathy’s Clown’, giving Warner Bros a No.1 with their first release.
Publicist Andrew Oldham and agent Eric Easton signed a management deal with The Rolling Stones after buying the rights to the bands first recordings for £90. They also persuade keyboard player Ian Stewart to drop out of the line up and become the bands road manager, (and still play piano at the back of the…
The self-titled, debut album by Chicago Transit Authority was released. For their next album, the group shorten their name to Chicago. The group was later nominated for a Grammy Award for Best New Artist of the Year and the album stayed on the Billboard 200 for 171 weeks, beating the previous record for a rock…
Good day to all of our fellow Boss Jocks friends and listeners! Here is our next theme: Songs with a GIRLS or BOYS name in the title. Remember, songs from 1955 to 1975 and only ONE request per listener! Comment on our post on BossJockRadio.com or on our Facebook! Be sure to include your HOMETOWN…
Bob Dylan was interviewed by BBC journalist and radio presenter Jack DeManio in the Savoy Hotel, London, for the BBC’s Home Service, which was broadcast on the Today programme the following day. Later on the 27th, Dylan and Joan Baez were filmed singing the traditional song Wild Mountain Thyme in the Savoy. Parts of the…
Dusty Springfield was at No.1 on the UK singles chart with ‘You Don’t Have To Say You Love Me’, the singers only UK No.1. When recording the track, Springfield was not satisfied with her vocal until she had recorded forty-seven takes.
The Jackson Five started a two week run at No.1 on the US singles chart with ‘ABC’. It was the group’s second US No. 1, a No.8 hit in the UK.
Spinning the time machine back to this week in 1973, a song that resonated with everyone, and stayed at #1 for four consecutive weeks, “Tie A Yellow Ribbon,” by TONY ORLANDO & DAWN. Prior to the act emerging on the scene, with early hits “Candida,” and “Knock Three Times,” Tony had managed to have a…
One of the most legendary addresses in music history, located in New York City, is 1619 Broadway, most affectionately known as THE BRILL BUILDING. During the ‘golden age’ of rock & roll, in the late 1950s – mid 1960s, this was a mecca where thousands of songs were born, with tunesmiths and publishers trying to…
Remember THE MONKEES, those four zany guys who we first saw on our TV sets in 1966, and provided us with ear candy, in those records “Last Train To Clarksville,” “Daydream Believer,” and “Valleri,” etc, it seems like their popularity has never waned. Over the decades there have been many reunion tours, and since the…
This week we rock, roll, reminisce, and turn back the time machine to 1966, with the tunes that were blaring out of transistor radios, as we dial in the ’15 and 10 Survey’ of WMEX in Boston, Massachusetts.
Among the legends celebrating birthdays this week, are the pride and joy of Philadelphia PA., BOBBY RYDELL, (April 26 – age 79) who as a teen idol soared to the top with hit tunes “Wild One,” (1960) “Good Time Baby” (1961) and his #1 “Forget Him” (1964). And, how can we forget the ever swingin’…
Saluting the great BOBBY VEE (birthdate April 30), who’s career began on ‘the day the music died’ Feb.3,1959, as he filled in for Buddy Holly, in his hometown of Fargo ND. Bobby placed 37 songs on Billboard’s Hot 100 during his career in the 1960s, (among them, “Rubber Ball,” “Devil Or Angel,” “Come Back When…
Buddy Holly was at No.1 on the UK singles chart with the Paul Anka song ‘It Doesn’t Matter Anymore.’ A No.1 hit six weeks after Holly’s death.
The Beatles and The Rolling Stones met for the first time during a Stones performance at the Crawdaddy Club. The music venue in Richmond, Surrey, also saw performances by Led Zeppelin, Long John Baldry, Elton John and and Rod Stewart.
‘Wild Thing’ by The Troggs was released in the U.S. on both the Atco and Fontana labels. The song went on to reach No.1. https://bit.ly/3at2qCu
US country music singer Marvin Rainwater was at No.1 on the UK singles chart with ‘Whole Lotta Woman’. Rainwater was a full-blooded Cherokee Indian, known for wearing Native American-themed outfits on stage.
Goldband Records released ‘Puppy Love’ by a 13-year old Dolly Parton in the US, a song that was recorded two years earlier when she was just eleven years old. The song didn’t chart, (later to be a hit for Donny Osmond ).
The film T.A.M.I. (Teen-Age Music International) Show featuring The Rolling Stones, Supremes, Four Tops, James Brown, The Beach Boys and Smokey Robinson & The Miracles opened in London, England under the title Teenage Command Performance.
The Spencer Davis Group were at No.1 on the UK singles chart with their version of the Jackie Edwards song ‘Somebody Help Me’, (as with their previous hit ‘Keep on Running’ which was also composed by Edwards).
Saluting the ‘Big O’… ROY ORBISON, as we commemorate his 85th birthday (April 23) From “Ooby Dooby” with the Teen Kings, to his third coming with The Traveling Wilburys, a voice that went silent on December 6, 1988. Of all the great songs, my favorite will always be one that only hit #25, “Ride Away,”…
When it comes to JOHNNY TILLOTSON, who hails from Jacksonville Florida, I’ve always regarded him as a ‘southern gentleman,’and this week (April 20) he celebrates birthday 83. One of the nicest guys I ever worked with, as I had the pleasure to host shows with him twice in 1988, and in the early 90s. A…
This week, we rock, roll, and reminisce, with the tunes that were blaring out of transistor radios, as we dial in the TOP 40 survey of radio station WILK Radio 98 in Wilkes-Barre / Scranton PA. The year- 1973
What does Eddie Cochran have in common with Hershey’s Chocolate?… well, it’s a TV commercial airing recently, in which Eddie’s song “C’mon Everybody,”(1958) is making everyone feel good, as visions of smores float across the screen. On a similar thread, some months ago Campbells Soup Company, was touting their chicken noodle variety, to the tune…
Long before we ever said ‘I want my MTV,’ in the mid 1960s, music television was dominated by shows such as American Bandstand, Shindig, Hullabaloo, Shivaree, and regional TV programs, hosted by many radio disc jockeys. One of the most heralded, but not often mentioned these days, was THE LLOYD THAXTON SHOW. No stranger to…
Zooming up Billboard’s Hot 100, in the top 10 during the month of April 1966, was the runaway hit from a Cleveland, Ohio act, THE OUTSIDERS entitled “Time Won’t Let Me.” Following the success of the single, Capitol Records, was quick to issue the release of an album. In the 1990s, I emceed a few…
Bob Dylan’s second studio album ‘The Freewheelin’ Bob Dylan was at No.1 on the UK chart. The album opens with ‘Blowin’ in the Wind’, which became an anthem of the 1960s, and an international hit for folk trio Peter, Paul & Mary.
Chuck Berry recorded “Roll Over Beethoven” which was released by Chess Records the following month. It is said that Berry wrote the song in response to his sister Lucy always using the family piano to play classical music when Berry wanted to play pop music. The lyric “roll over Beethoven and tell Tchaikovsky the news”…
Jimi Hendrix, The Walker Brothers, Cat Stevens and Engelbert Humperdinck all appeared at the The Odeon, Blackpool, England, tickets cost 5 and 10 shillings, ($0.70 and $1.40).
Hi this is Philly Bill and welcome to my page on Boss Jock Radio. We are going to have lots of fun between The Nation’s Oldies Station and our interactive website. if you have just registered, welcome! Keep checking back with me…lots more to come!
Join Nicky G as he reveals who was number 1 on this day in the year 1965. It was Freddie and the Dreamers with I’m Telling You Now.
Polydor Records released The Bee Gees ‘New York mining Disaster 1941’ It was released with a promotional slogan announcing ‘The most significant talent since The Beatles. The record became a Top 20 hit in the UK and US.
Join the legendary Uncle Bill Cain as he takes you through the start of your Saturday while playing all of your favorites from the past in pure Boss Jock fashion.
Every morning beginning at 7am EST, tune in to join the smooth voice of the legendary Charlie Mills as be takes you through the beginning of your day… Boss Jock style!
Nancy and Frank Sinatra were at No.1 on the UK singles chart with ‘Somethin’ Stupid’, (making them the only father and daughter to have a UK No.1 single as a team). The song was written by folk singer C. Carson Parks and originally recorded in 1966 by Parks and his wife Gaile Foote, as “Carson…
Bill Haley recorded ‘Rock Around the Clock’ at Pythian Temple studios in New York City. Considered by many to be the song that put rock and roll on the map around the world. The song was used over the opening titles for the film ‘Blackboard Jungle’, and went on to be a world-wide No.1 and…
Philly Bill has been around Professional Radio since 1969. With a deep knowledge of “our” music, along with his wit and wonderful stories about the artists, you will have fun weekdays tuned into Philly Bill. Join Philly Bill Culp every weekday at 10AM EST for your favorite memories!
Newly signed to EMI Records, Queen played a showcase gig for their new record label at the The Marquee London. They released their debut single ‘Keep Yourself Alive’ three months later on 6 July 1973.
Otis Redding, Sam & Dave, Eddie Floyd, Arthur Conley and Booker T And The MG’s all appeared at London’s Hammersmith Odeon, England.
On this week’s US Top 5 singles chart; No.5, ‘Bridge Over Trouble Water’ by Simon and Garfunkel, No.4, ‘Spirit In The Sky’, Norman Greenbaum’, No.3, ‘Instant Karma!’ by John Lennon, No.2, ‘ABC’ The Jackson 5 and at No.1, ‘Let It Be’, The Beatles.
Pink Floyd announced founder Syd Barrett had officially left the group. Barrett was suffering from psychiatric disorders compounded by drug use.
Monkees fans walked from London’s Marble Arch to the US Embassy in Grosvenor Square to protest Davy Jones’ planned call-up. Jones was exempted because he was deemed responsible for supporting his father.
The Stargazers were at No.1 on the UK singles chart with ‘Broken Wings.’ The first record by any British group to reach No.1. Stargazers’ member Fred Dachtler is the father of Clark Datchler of 80s group Johnny Hates Jazz.
The Doors’ Jim Morrison turned himself in to the FBI in Los Angeles. He was charged on six charges of lewd behavior and public exposure at a concert in Miami on March 2nd, 1969. He was later released on $2000 bail.
Beach Boys recorded their next single ‘I Get Around’, which became their first US No.1 in the summer of this year. The song begins with a multi-part a cappella introduction that quickly shifts into rock-style verses sung by Mike Love and a pop chorus sung in falsetto by Brian Wilson.
The Who recorded an appearance for Top Of The Pops at the Manchester television studio. The band then played a gig supporting Donovan at The Town Hall, Wembley, with Rod Stewart and the Soul Agents appearing at the bottom of the bill.
The Chiffons started a four week run at No.1 on the US singles chart with ‘He’s So Fine’, which was a No.16 UK hit. In 1971 George Harrison was taken to court accused of copying the song on his 1970 ‘My Sweet Lord’ and ordered to pay $587,000 (£345,000) to the writers.
Led Zeppelin released their fifth studio album, Houses Of The Holy in the UK. The album title was a dedication by the band to their fans who appeared at venues they dubbed ‘Houses of the Holy’. The cover is a collage of several photographs which were taken at the Giant’s Causeway, Northern Ireland, by Aubrey Powell of Hipgnosis.…
The Supremes scored their fourth US No.1 single with ‘Stop! In The Name Of Love.’ The song was included on the Supremes‘ sixth album, More Hits by The Supremes, and was nominated for the 1966 Grammy Award for Best Contemporary Rock & Roll Group Vocal Performance, losing to ‘Flowers on the Wall’ by the Statler Brothers. The song was…
Marvin Gaye was at No.1 on the UK singles chart, with ‘I Heard It Through The Grapevine’. The song was first recorded by The Miracles and had also been a million seller in 1967 for Gladys Knight and the Pips.
Buddy Holly appeared at The Gaumont Theatre in London, the final date on his only UK tour. Also on the bill was Gary Miller, The Tanner Sisters, Des O’Connor, The Montanas, Ronnie Keene & His Orchestra.
Simon And Garfunkel made their UK singles chart debut with ‘Homeward Bound.’ Paul Simon is said to have written the song at Farnworth railway station, Widnes, England, while stranded overnight waiting for a train. A plaque is displayed in the station to commemorate this, although memorabilia hunters have stolen it many times. The song describes his longing to…
The film of The Concert For Bangladesh featuring George Harrison, Bob Dylan and Eric Clapton premiered in New York. The event was the first benefit concert of this magnitude in world history. The concert raised $243,418.51 for Bangladesh relief, which was administered by UNICEF. Sales of the album and DVD continue to benefit the George Harrison Fund for UNICEF.
While driving to New York for appearances on ‘The Perry Como Show’, and ‘The Ed Sullivan Show’, the car that Carl Perkins was traveling in was involved in an accident putting Perkins in hospital for several months. The singer received four broken ribs and a broken shoulder, his brother Jay was killed in the accident.
Elvis Presley appeared at the 4,000 seated YMCA Gymnasium in Lexington, North Carolina. Also on the bill, Mother Maybelle and the Carter Sisters, featuring June Carter, Rod Brasfield, Hal and Ginger. Tickets cost $1 for general admission and $1.50 for reserved seats.
The Temptations released their debut album Meet the Temptations on the Gordy (Motown) label. The lineup on the cover features Eddie Kendricks, Melvin Franklin, Paul Williams, Otis Williams, and newest Temptation Davis (later David) Ruffin. Ruffin had just joined the act three months before this album was released, and actually only appears on ‘The Way You Do…
Bob Dylan‘s debut album Bob Dylan was released in the Untied States. Initially poor sales led the record to be known around Columbia Records as ‘Hammond’s Folly’ (John Hammond was producer of Dylan’s early recordings and the man responsible for signing Dylan). The album was praised by the New York City weekly newspaper Village Voice as an…
The Rolling Stones were each fined £5 ($8.50) for urinating in a public place, following an incident that had taken place at a petrol station after a gig at the ABC Theatre in Romford, Essex, England. This was after the last show on their fifth UK package tour with The Hollies, The Konrads, all girl-group Goldie and…
The Walker Brothers had their second UK No.1 with the single ‘The Sun Ain’t Gonna Shine Anymore’, (originally recorded by Frankie Valli).
The Beatles set a new record for advance sales in the US with 2,100,000 copies of their latest single ‘Can’t Buy Me Love.’ When pressed by American journalists in 1966 to reveal the song’s ‘true’ meaning, Paul McCartney stated ‘I think you can put any interpretation you want on anything, but when someone suggests that ‘Can’t Buy Me…
Ray Charles peaked at No.2 on the US R&B charts with the Atlantic single ‘I Got A Woman’, widely considered the first song to be labelled “soul” – a blending of R&B and gospel.
ABBA released ‘Ring Ring’ the title track of their debut album. It gave the group their first appearance on the UK singles chart where it peaked at No.32 and became their first Swedish No.1 and first Australian top 10 hit.
Eric Clapton quit The Yardbirds due to musical differences with the other band members. Clapton wanted to continue in a blues type vein, while the rest of the band preferred the more commercial style of their first hit, ‘For Your Love’.
How to use the Amazon Alexa skill for Boss Jock Radio: To begin, open the Alexa app on your smart device. You will have the option to add a new skill to your Alexa! Of course, we’re going to search for “Boss Jock Radio”! Next, click on the Boss Jock Radio result (in above image)…
Creed Bratton, from Grass Roots, who had the 1968 US No.5 single ‘Midnight Confessions’, plus 13 other US Top 40 singles. He is more recently known for playing a fictional version of himself on The Office on NBC. ThisDayInMusic.com
5,000 fans greeted Bill Haley when he arrived from New York on the liner Queen Elizabeth at Southampton, for his debut UK concert tour. Haley was the first American rock artist to tour the UK. ThisDayInMusic.com
Beginning Wednesday February 3 rd , America’s favorite rock ‘n rollmusic will be heard across all fifty states thanks to BOSS JOCKRADIO.COM. The newly launched internet radio station has signedfamiliar Boss Jock personalities, each with over 20-years of majorradio market experience, to bring their unique memories and style tothe digital airwaves. Boss Jock Radio partners,…
Elton John started a three-week run at No.1 on the US singles chart with ‘Crocodile Rock’. Elton’s first of five US No.1 singles was inspired by his discovery of Australian band Daddy Cool and their single ‘Eagle Rock’.
The Beatles played their first real gig outside of Liverpool at The Oasis Club in Manchester. It began with ‘Hippy Hippy Shake’.
David Bowie arrived in the US for the first time; he couldn’t play live because of work permit restrictions, but attracted publicity when he wore a dress at a promotion event. ThisDayInMusic.com
Buddy Holly recorded what would become his first release, ‘Love Me’ and ‘Blue Days, Black Nights’. Both tracks were later featured on That’ll Be The Day the third album from Holly, after Decca, Holly’s first major record label packaged these 1956 tunes after he had some success with recordings from the Brunswick and Coral labels.…
The day the music died was a sad day across all of the world… today the music is born again as Boss Jock Radio goes LIVE globally on the internet! We are excited with our lineup of legendary and experienced DJs from various markets around the country, ready to play the songs we’ve grown to…
1938 – Etta JamesEtta James, singer, who had 9 US Top 40 hits during the 60s including the 1996 UK No.5 single ‘I Just Want To Make Love To You’. James died on January 20, 2012. From https://www.thisdayinmusic.com/
1963 – The Rolling StonesThe Rolling Stones played at the Ricky Tick Club at the Star and Garter Hotel, Windsor, Berkshirehire, UK. This was the first time The Rolling Stones, including Charlie Watts and Bill Wyman, played at this venue. All the walls in the club were painted black and the lighting was made out of old ice-cream tins. From…
