Did you know that in the 1600s, lefties were suspected of witchcraft? Fast forward to today, and we’re still navigating a world designed for righties. From scissors to can openers, life’s full of little challenges for the left-handed among us.
Even language hasn’t been kind – check a thesaurus and you might find some surprisingly negative synonyms for “left-handed.” (Have you ever been accused of giving a left-handed compliment?) But lefties in good company! Some of the world’s most creative minds have been southpaws.
To celebrate this most important of holidays, I’ve put together a playlist featuring 30 incredible left-handed musicians. From rock legends to pop icons, these artists have left their mark on music history.
If you cranked up the radio in the late ’70s and early ’80s, chances are you stumbled upon Blondie’s infectious blend of new wave. Fronted by the iconic Debbie Harry, this band fearlessly pushed boundaries, fusing punk energy with pop sensibilities to create a sound that remains instantly recognizable today.
Blondie’s influence extends beyond catchy tunes. They were true pioneers in the new wave scene, infusing punk’s raw energy with irresistible hooks and Debbie Harry’s cool vocals. Hits like “Heart of Glass” and “Call Me” became instant classics, showcasing their ability to craft danceable anthems with a bite. But Blondie wasn’t a one-trick pony. Songs like “The Tide Is High” (a reggae cover) and “Rapture” (one of the first mainstream songs to feature rapping) demonstrated their genre-bending abilities.
Blondie’s impact transcends charts and awards. With over 40 million albums sold worldwide, they’ve left an indelible mark. Their critically acclaimed third album, Parallel Lines, catapulted them into the spotlight. Notably, “Rapture” earned them a Grammy Award for Best Rock Vocal Performance by a Female. In 2006, they rightfully entered the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Yet, beyond accolades, Blondie’s legacy lies in their enduring music—a testament to innovation and irresistible hooks.
Debbie Harry, the unforgettable face of Blondie, challenged traditional notions of femininity in rock. Her powerful voice and unapologetic stage presence made her a role model for aspiring musicians of all genders. Harry’s charisma and style continue to inspire artists worldwide.
Blondie isn’t just about music; they’ve also championed causes. Debbie Harry, in particular, advocates for LGBTQ+ rights and HIV/AIDS awareness. Her participation in charity events underscores the band’s commitment to giving back. Blondie remains an iconic band whose legacy resonates across generations. Their fusion of innovation and catchy hooks serves as a timeless recipe for success, proving that music can transcend eras and inspire both musicians and fans alike.
The late Terry Hall of Fun Boy Three and The Specials was born on this date in 1959. Some highlights from his career in music are included on today’s playlist.
The year 1991 was a remarkable one for music, as it saw the emergence of genres, styles, and stars that would shape the musical landscape for years to come. Today’s playlist consists of thirty of the songs that defined 1991.
We’ve got slick pop hooks and hip-hop beats, soulful ballads and dancefloor anthems, synth pop and alt rock, industrial angst and Prince.
In late September of 1991, a trio from Seattle released an album that soon became a phenomenon that transcended music and defined a generation. Its first hit single inaugurated a new wave of alternative rock that would dominate the 90s. That song peaked on the pop charts the following year, so look for it when Tunes Du Jour Presents 1992.
For now, take a trip down memory lane and enjoy the musical smorgasbord that was 1991. Thank you for reading, and stay tuned for more posts about music.
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)
If you’ve never heard the song “Bohemian Rhapsody,” I suggest you hit play on today’s playlist. It’s by a band called Queen from England. Their usual lead singer, Freddie Mercury, was born on this date in 1946.
