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.
Elenore Gee, I think you’re swell And you really do me well You’re my pride and joy, et cetera…
After the huge success of their “Happy Together,” The Turtles’ record label asked them for another love song in a similar vein. Jokingly, they turned in “Elenore.” It became their eighth US top 40 hit, reaching number 6 on the Billboard Hot 100.
The Turtles’ Mark Volman was born on this date in 1947. A few songs from his band are included on today’s playlist.
In the tumultuous year of 1968, the world was ablaze with social and political upheaval, and the music of the time resonated deeply with the spirit of change. As we reflect on the sounds that defined this pivotal era, it’s impossible not to be swept away by the eclectic mix of genres and emotions that filled the airwaves. From soulful ballads to psychedelic rock anthems, the music of 1968 was a reflection of the turbulent times in which it was created.
One cannot delve into the musical landscape of 1968 without acknowledging the timeless classics that continue to capture hearts and minds today. Marvin Gaye’s “I Heard It Through the Grapevine” remains a soulful testament to the power of love and betrayal, while The Beatles’ “Hey Jude” stands as an enduring anthem of hope and resilience. Meanwhile, Otis Redding’s “(Sittin’ On) The Dock of the Bay” evokes a sense of quiet contemplation amidst the chaos, its melancholic melody lingering long after the last note fades away.
The year also saw the rise of revolutionary artists who pushed the boundaries of conventional sound and style. Jimi Hendrix’s electrifying rendition of Bob Dylan’s “All Along The Watchtower” redefined the possibilities of guitar-driven rock, while Sly & the Family Stone’s “Dance To The Music” infused funk with a vibrant energy that transcended racial and cultural divides. Steppenwolf’s “Born To Be Wild” became the anthem of a generation, capturing the restless spirit of rebellion that coursed through the veins of youth around the world.
Each track on this playlist is a testament to the power of music to unite, inspire, and console, even in the darkest of times. Let us remember the year that was 1968 and the enduring legacy of the artists who helped shape it.
Today is the birthday of the late Marty Balin, co-founder of Jefferson Airplane and lead vocalist/composer of the biggest hit by Jefferson Starship, “Miracles.” A song from each of those bands is in today’s playlist.
