The Rolling Stones’ Keith Richards was born on this date in 1943. A healthy dollop of the band’s music is included on today’s playlist.
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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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Tunes Du Jour Presents Eric Clapton
Eric Clapton stands as a towering figure in the realm of music, his guitar prowess and soulful vocals leaving an indelible mark on the landscape of rock and blues. From his early days with The Yardbirds and Cream to his solo career, Clapton has continually redefined the boundaries of guitar playing, weaving intricate melodies and emotive solos that resonate with audiences across generations.
At the heart of Clapton’s music lies a raw authenticity, a testament to his deep-rooted love for the blues. Songs like “Layla,” “Tears In Heaven,” and “Sunshine of Your Love” not only showcase his technical brilliance but also his ability to infuse each note with profound emotion. His music transcends mere entertainment, offering listeners a cathartic experience that speaks to the complexities of the human condition.
Beyond his musical contributions, Clapton has also been involved in various philanthropic endeavors. His most notable effort is perhaps the creation of the Crossroads Centre in Antigua, a rehabilitation facility dedicated to helping individuals overcome addiction. Having battled addiction himself, Clapton’s commitment to supporting others on their journey to recovery underscores his compassion and empathy.
However, Clapton’s legacy is not without controversy. Accusations of xenophobia, racism, and anti-science sentiments have cast a shadow over his career. His inflammatory remarks in the past have sparked widespread criticism and prompted many to reevaluate their support for him. While his musical achievements are undeniable, it’s essential to acknowledge and address the problematic aspects of his persona.
As listeners engage with Clapton’s music, they are encouraged to appreciate the artistry while also confronting the complexities of the artist behind it. While his contributions to music are undeniable, it’s crucial to approach his legacy with nuance and critical reflection. Ultimately, Eric Clapton’s journey serves as a reminder that even the most revered figures are not immune to scrutiny, and that true appreciation requires an acknowledgment of both the brilliance and the flaws.
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Your (Almost) Daily Playlist: 10-21-23
“This is a song I wrote for my first album. It was the only song I ever wrote that was a Top 10 hit. It wasn’t for me, it was for a group called Manfred Mann’s Earth Band. They were a great band, but they changed the lyrics. And it pissed me off. Because I have a big ego. And I wanted to hear my words coming out of the radio. But they had a hit, so I was happy about that. But what they did was, they took out one of my lines and they put in one of their own. And their line became one of the most misunderstood lines of all time. In my version, the line went: ‘Cut loose like a deuce, another runner in the night.’ A deuce is a 1932 Ford Coupe, a very hot car back in the day. But they changed it to: ‘Blinded by the light, revved up like a deuce, you know the runner in the night.’ Now that makes no sense. But that’s OK, because it rhymed. But then people started to mishear that line. And they misheard it as: ‘Blinded by the light, wrapped up like a douche, another rumor in the night.’ A douche is not a car. It’s a feminine hygiene product. And it doesn’t even rhyme! So I don’t know how they got that. But that’s what people heard. And that’s what they’ve been singing for 40 years.” – Bruce Springsteen
Manfred Mann was born Manfred Lubowitz on this date in 1940. A few of his hits are on today’s playlist.
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Your (Almost) Daily Playlist: 9-24-23
I say let the sun catch you crying. You have control over your own life. As long as you’re not impinging on someone else’s rights or happiness, do it. Cry.
The late Gerard Marsden of Gerry and The Pacemakers was born on this date in 1942. A couple of his group’s tunes are on this week’s playlist.
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Your (Almost) Daily Playlist: 7-17-23
The Spencer Davis Group were under pressure from their manager, Chris Blackwell, to come up with a hit single. He put them in a studio. By around 11:30 AM they had a riff. By noon the song was written and the band headed to a café down the road for lunch. Blackwell was livid when he found them eating rather than working on their new record. His anger subsided when the song, “Gimme Some Lovin,” recorded in just one or two takes, became a worldwide smash. It is now considered a rock n roll classic.
The late Spencer Davis was born on this date in 1939. A couple of the Group’s tracks are included on today’s playlist.
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