Your (Almost) Daily Playlist: 5-11-24

Eric Burdon rose to fame as the lead vocalist of the rock band The Animals, which was part of the British Invasion that took the music world by storm in the 1960s. With his powerful and distinctive vocals, Burdon helped the band achieve international success with hits like “House of the Rising Sun” and “Don’t Let Me Be Misunderstood.”

In the late 1960s, with a new set of Animals, Burdon embraced the psychedelic sound that was popular during that era. This incarnation of the band showcased Burdon’s ability to evolve with the changing times, as they incorporated elements of funk, soul, and psychedelic rock into their music.

In 1970, Burdon introduced the world to the band War. Their collaboration resulted in the hit song “Spill the Wine,” which fused elements of rock, funk, and Latin music. I’m impressed by Burdon’s versatility and willingness to explore new musical territories.

Eric Burdon was born on this date in 1941. A few songs from him are included on today’s playlist.

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Your (Almost) Daily Playlist: 4-19-24

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.

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Tunes Du Jour Presents 1968

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.

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Your (Almost) Daily Playlist: 9-19-23

Producer Phil Spector had Righteous Brother Bill Medley sing the first verse of “You’ve Lost That Lovin’ Feelin’.” When his righteous brother Bobby Hatfield (they’re not brothers in the familial sense, see) asked what he was supposed to do during that verse, Spector told him “You can go directly to the bank.” To the bank he went, as YLTLF became one of the biggest US hits of 1965.

Bill Medley turns 83 today. A couple of his duo’s hits are included on today’s playlist.

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Your (Almost) Daily Playlist: 11-28-22

Today’s playlist celebrates the November 28 birthdays of Randy Newman, En Vogue/Lucy Pearl’s Dawn Robinson, The Fleetwoods’ Gary Troxel, The 5 Royales’ Johnny Tanner, The Foundations’ Clem Curtis, William DeVaughn, Chamillionaire, Bruce Channel, R.B. Greaves, and Motown Records founder Berry Gordy Jr.; and the November 29 birthdays of The Mamas and the Papas’ Denny Doherty, John Mayall, The Young Rascals’ Felix Cavaliere, The Game, Zapp’s Roger Troutman, Ronnie Montrose, New Kids on the Block’s Jonathan Knight, and Meco.

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