Today is World Kindness Day. While every day would be a great day to practice basic human decency, some people are nasty assbags with no regard for others. If you’re one of those walking masterpieces of jackholery, here’s a wild idea: try being kind for ONE WHOLE DAY and see what it does. For example, let’s say you’re the personal assistant to someone who lives in a building with other residents. When you’re walking out of the building’s front door just in front of a neighbor who is holding his 17-year-old blind dog and leading his other pupper on a leash, maybe – and I’m just spitballing here – don’t let the door slam in their face, you self-absorbed piece of human garbage. And if said neighbor thoughtfully moves your precious Tesla charging cable to prevent damage (gasp – the audacity of helping!), perhaps, don’t show up at his door and berate him for protecting your property. Wild concept: Show some gratitude for his thoughtfulness. Consider saying “thank you,” you self-important, unreasonable, entitled, high-handed weenie.
FFS people, be kind! Rewind!
(Any resemblance to persons unfortunately living is purely intentional.)
This fall marks fifty years since Billboard magazine began publishing its disco chart, an acknowledgment of a genre that danced its way into the hearts of millions. Disco music, with its infectious rhythms and vibrant energy, was more than just a soundtrack for nightlife; it was a cultural phenomenon rooted in the experiences of Black, Latinx, and gay communities. The genre’s pulsating beats and soulful melodies offered an escape, a place where people could come together and express themselves freely on the dance floor.
Disco’s origins can be traced back to the dance halls of New York City, where marginalized communities created spaces for celebration and expression. Early tracks like The Trammps’ “That’s Where the Happy People Go” and Shirley & Co’s “Shame, Shame, Shame” laid the foundation for what would become a global movement. These songs, along with others from the era, were not just about the beats but also about creating a sense of community and shared experience on the dance floor, where people from all walks of life could come together and express themselves freely.
Black artists played a central role in shaping disco’s sound and message. Chic’s “Le Freak” and Sister Sledge’s “He’s the Greatest Dancer” brought sophisticated grooves that transcended race, while Marvin Gaye’s “Got to Give It Up” and Diana Ross’s “Upside Down” combined soul with danceable rhythms, pushing the genre into mainstream consciousness. The smooth yet dynamic production styles and vocals showcased a depth that went beyond the glittering surface often associated with disco.
Latinx influences also left an indelible mark on the genre. Songs like “Turn The Beat Around” by Vicki Sue Robinson and “Cherchez La Femme” by Dr. Buzzard’s Original Savannah Band infused Latin rhythms with disco beats, creating a vibrant and eclectic sound. This cross-pollination of cultures on the dance floor reflected the diversity of the communities that embraced disco, making it a genre that celebrated inclusivity long before it became a mainstream value.
As we commemorate fifty years since Billboard recognized disco’s impact, it’s important to remember that disco was more than just a moment in time. It was a movement that broke down social barriers and created a space where joy and liberation could thrive. Whether it’s the enduring appeal of “Stayin’ Alive” by the Bee Gees or the timeless groove of KC & the Sunshine Band’s “That’s the Way (I Like It),” disco’s legacy lives on, reminding us of the power of music to unite and uplift.
1972. The Vietnam War raged on, Watergate loomed, and the social landscape shifted beneath our feet. Amidst this backdrop of upheaval, our ears tuned in to a soundtrack that transcended mere melodies—it pulsed with the countercultural spirit and the burgeoning individuality of an era. Let us step back in time, dust off the record player, and explore the timeless tunes that wove themselves into the fabric of our lives—a kaleidoscope of genres and voices that defined a generation.
Al Green crooned “Let’s Stay Together,” his velvet voice weaving an unwavering plea for commitment.
Roberta Flack tenderly sang “The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face,” etching raw vulnerability into our hearts.
Don McLean painted a poignant picture of a generation in transition with his epic “American Pie.”
Alice Cooper’s rebellious anthem “School’s Out” became the rallying cry for youth liberation, its raucous energy echoing through high school corridors.
Across the pond, T. Rex electrified listeners with glam rock swagger in “Bang a Gong (Get It On).”
Johnny Nash offered optimism with “I Can See Clearly Now,” a beacon of hope cutting through the haze.
Meanwhile, Elton John’s cosmic odyssey “Rocket Man” and David Bowie’s otherworldly anthem “Starman” transported us to distant galaxies, reflecting the era’s fascination with space exploration and introspection.
Jimmy Cliff addressed racial injustice and social struggles in “The Harder They Come.”
Big Star captured the bittersweet angst of adolescence in “Thirteen.”
The bluesy, swaggering classic “Tumbling Dice” by The Rolling Stones left an indelible marks on musical history.
And let’s not forget Elvis Presley, who still had magic to spare with “Burning Love.”
From the introspective musings of Lou Reed’s “Perfect Day” to the raw energy of Led Zeppelin, each track on this playlist embodies the spirit of its time while transcending it—a symphony that continues to resonate across generations.
The music of 1972 continues to evoke nostalgia and stir emotions across generations. These iconic tunes remind us of the enduring legacy of artists who dared to push boundaries and challenge the status quo. So turn up the volume and let these timeless tunes whisk you back to celebrate the enduring beauty of music that transcends generations.
The theme of today’s playlist is cover versions of songs that originated in stage musicals. Here are the songs listed with the shows that introduced them:
Mack the Knife by Bobby Darin – From The Threepenny Opera (1928)
Till There Was You by The Beatles – From The Music Man (1957)
Smoke Gets In Your Eyes by The Platters – From Roberta (1933)
Little Girl Blue by Nina Simone – From Jumbo (1935)
You’ll Never Walk Alone by Gerry & The Pacemakers – From Carousel (1945)
I Am What I Am by Gloria Gaynor – From La Cage aux Folles (1983)
On The Street Where You Live by Vic Damone – From My Fair Lady (1956)
Everything’s Coming Up Roses by The Replacements – From Gypsy (1959)
Send In The Clowns by Judy Collins – From A Little Night Music (1973)
I Don’t Know How to Love Him by Helen Reddy – From Jesus Christ Superstar (1970)
Hair by The Cowsills – From Hair (1967)
Put On A Happy Face by Diana Ross & The Supremes – From Bye Bye Birdie (1960)
Losing My Mind by Liza Minnelli – From Follies (1971)
Tomorrow by Grace Jones – From Annie (1977)
My Favorite Things by John Coltrane – From The Sound of Music (1959)
Well Did You Evah? by Debbie Harry & Iggy Pop – From DuBarry Was a Lady (1939)
The Man I Love by Kate Bush – From Lady, Be Good! (1924)
If My Friends Could See Me Now by Linda Clifford – From Sweet Charity (1966)
Summertime by Big Brother & The Holding Company – From Porgy and Bess (1935)
Cabaret by Harold Melvin & The Blue Notes – From Cabaret (1966)
I Get A Kick Out Of You by Frank Sinatra – From Anything Goes (1934)
Don’t Cry For Me Argentina by Festival – From Evita (1978)
Somewhere by Pet Shop Boys – From West Side Story (1957)
The Lady is a Tramp by Tony Bennett & Lady Gaga – From Babes in Arms (1937)
I’ll Never Fall In Love Again by Dionne Warwick – From Promises, Promises (1968)
I Love Paris by Screamin’ Jay Hawkins – From Can-Can (1953)
Night + Day by U2 – From Gay Divorce (1932)
There Are Worse Things I Could Do by Alison Moyet – From Grease (1971)
Corner of the Sky by The Jackson 5 – From Pippin (1972)
I Enjoy Being a Girl by Phranc – From Flower Drum Song (1958)
Founding member of The Temptations Paul Williams was born on this date in 1939. He died apparently by his own hand at just 34 years of age. Tunes du Jour honors his memory on today’s playlist with a smattering of the group’s many great tracks.
Back in 2016, when Donald Trump was a candidate for president of the United States of America without impeachments and indictments on his resume, the classic song “Love Train” was played at the Republican National Convention. The O’Jays were not supportive of this use of their hit. Group member Walter Williams said “Our music, and most especially ‘Love Train,’ is about bringing people together, not building walls. I don’t appreciate being associated with Mr. Trump and his usage of our music without permission.” Added group member Eddie Levert, “I don’t agree, whatsoever, with Trump’s politics to the point where I think he just may be the anti-Christ.”
The O’Jays’ Eddie Levert turns 81 today. A few of his group’s hits are included on today’s playlist.
