Ronnie's Record Page
SORTED BY TITLE

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This page is best-viewed in full-screen mode.

Records shown in ORANGE are parts of themed sets on the main page.
Records shown in GREEN are individual entries on that page.

Point to the record name to read a description of it.
Click (or press if using an IPad) the record name to listen to it.

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(My Baby Don't Love Me) No More -- The DeJohn Sisters
[from the themed set "delightful dejohns!"]
[1954] The De John Sisters were a vocal duo, born Julie and Dux DiGiovanni in Chester, Pennsylvania, the same place where the Four Aces were born. They were the daughters of a dry cleaner and worked in their parents' store after school, harboring dreams of a singing career. While working at the same club where the Four Aces were discovered, they were heard by a scout who worked for Epic Records, a subsidiary label of Columbia. This recording, their second for Epic, with lyrics written by the sisters and music by their brother Leo, made them overnight sensations. The record reached #6 on the national chart. A.D.D. Song, The -- Sean Morey
[2009] A recent masterpiece by the creator of "The Man Song."
A.D.D. stands for...that reminds me, FOUR is the only number that, spelled out, contains the same number of letters as its value. I value your feedback about this Page. Patti Page sure is popular, isn't she? Aba Daba Honeymoon -- Debbie Reynolds and Carleton Carpenter
[1951] Debbie and Carleton sang this in the motion picture "Two Weeks With Love." If you watch their performance carefully, you'll notice that Carleton at one point sang "aba" where he should have sang "baba"! P.S. I love the film and this record! Abergavenny -- Shannon
[from the themed set "two shannons"]
[1969] The great lost oldie about the red dog. The artist is really British singer Marty Wilde, the father of singer Kim Wilde, who hit with "Kids In America." Aching, Breaking Heart -- George Jones
[from the themed set "hearty aches and breaks"]
[1962] Is this "Billy Ray" Jones? Not exactly. But the Ol' Possum got to #5 on the country chart with this tune, 30 years before that famous (or infamous depending on point of view) "achy breaky" hit came along. Achy Breaky Heart -- Billy Ray Cyrus
[from the themed set "hearty aches and breaks"]
[1992] Billy Ray's career recording. 'Nuff said. Achy Breaky Song -- Weird Al Yankovic
[from the themed set "hearty aches and breaks"]
[1993] Weird Al's parody of Billy Ray's megahit. From his album "Alapalooza." After The Lights Go Down Low -- Al Hibbler
[1956] Al Hibbler is best known for his million selling recording of "Unchained Melody" and the follow-up single "He." This wonderful record, though it made the national top ten, is hardly ever played and has been forgotten by many people. I'm glad to be able to present it here for you all to enjoy. By the way, for a long time, Al he lived in Teaneck, NJ, where I lived for more than 30 years. Ain't That Fun -- Linda Scott
[from the themed set "a lovely linda quadruple play!"]
[1964] And ain't this fun to listen to? Linda told me, during my 1975 interview with her, that all of the voices on this recording are hers. Ain't We Got Fun? -- Jill Corey
[1957] This is a track from Jill's very popular album "Sometimes I'm Happy - Sometime's I'm Blue." The song, with music by Richard A. Whiting and lyrics by Raymond B. Egan and Gus Kahn, was first performed in 1920 in the revue "Satires of 1920" and then quickly became very popular in vaudeville and recordings. I've heard many versions of it but this is by far my favorite. Jill makes it sound like it was written especially for her. Ajax Airlines -- Hudson and Landry
[1971] "Ajax Liquor Store" has made our top twenty and this one is just as nutty. Bob Hudson and Ron Landry were an immensesly popular morning radio team on KGBS in Los Angeles. Sadly they have both passed away. But we can continue to enjoy their very special brand of humor. Ajax Liquor Store -- Hudson and Landry
[1971] Bob Hudson and Ron Landry were an immensesly popular morning radio team on KGBS in Los Angeles. It was their on air chemistry that lead to the recording of several successful comedy albums on Dore Records. Their first single release was this uproarious recording. All told they recorded a few dozen different comedy bits. Sadly both of these very funny gentlemen have passed away. Their recordings may not be as well-known as those by some other comedians, but nevertheless they are treasures. All For The Best -- the cast
[from the themed set "fabulous showstoppers"]
[1970] Godspell (an archaic spelling of the word gospel),a 1970 musical by Stephen Schwartz and John-Michael Tebelak. It opened off Broadway in May of 1971 and has played in various touring companies and revivals many times since. I'm not sure who is singing this or the exact context of this song within the show (I have not seen it) but the message is clear: Heaven is the ultimate reward and getting there is "All For The Best." Tap your toes! All Over Again, Again -- The Great Pretender
[1959] It's not Johnny Cash and it's not Stan Freberg doing a spoof of Johnny Cash. It's Mitchell Torok doing a spoof of what a Stan spoof of Johnny would sound like!
The backing group is the Tennessee Two and a Half.
Enjoy! Alley Cat -- Bent Fabric
[from the themed set "rainin' cats and dogs"]
[1962] He was born with the name Folded Material. Nah, you won't buy that. Okay, he was actually born with the name Bent Fabricius-Bjerre, in Copenhagen, and he had a bent for piano playing. He was also the head of Metronome Records in Denmark. Bent's recording hit #7 and it inspired a dance called the Alley Cat which is still popular today. Alley Cat Song, The -- David Thorne
[from the themed set "vocalizing instrumental hits"]
[1962] The only information I know about this record is that it appeared on the jazz label Riverside, it got played on New York radio and the guy sounds very hip. Alone -- The Shepherd Sisters
[from the themed set "50's sisters, real and imaginary"]
[1957] Like the McGuire Sisters, this group of sisters is from Middletown, Ohio. They were Martha, Mary Lou, Gayle and Judy. Besides being sisters, they were all blondes. This sample includes the entire legendary false ending that fooled many a deejay back in 1957! Along Comes Mary -- The Association
[from the themed set "for our countdown queen, dj mary roboto"]
[1966] One of the big hits at the dawning of rock and roll's psychedelic era. There were reports over the past few days that the Association's drummer Ted Bluechel had died, but those reports were INCORRECT. Am I Blue? -- Fats Domino
[from the themed set "blue fats"]
[1961] Fats with strings! Dozens of people over the years have recorded this 1929 song, written by Harry Akst and Grant Clark and from the film "On With The Show." Ambrose (Part Five) -- Linda Laurie
[from the themed set "who can forget the strange "guy" who kept saying "just keep walking!"?"]
[1959] Linda, a singer-songwriter from Brooklyn, NY, wrote a top three hit in the 70s for Helen Reddy called "Leave Me Alone (Ruby Red Dress)." But she will always be best-remembered for this novelty recording on which she did both the female voice and the voice of "Ambrose."
Linda has stated that "Ambrose" was initially a silly party routine that she did to entertain her friends. Their reaction was so positive that she decided to make a recording of the routine. She shopped it around and Glory Records picked it up and it got to #52 on the chart.
If this is Part Five, what about Parts One, Two, Three and Four? Sorry, they don't exist! But there's kind of a Part Six, which is the record below this one.
Linda passed away from cancer on November 19 at the age of 68 at a hospital in Santa Barbara, California. Though she never had a blockbuster hit as an artist, she surely left her mark with this memorable recording. Angel Baby -- Dusk
[from the themed set "a "dawn" sound-alike and a dawn sound-alike"]
[1971] Dusk was a studio group created by the producers of Dawn, Hank Medress and Dave Appell. The lead singer is Peggy Santiglia of the Delicates and the Angels. This was actually an answer record to Dawn's top-three hit "Candida." In that record Tony Orlando sings "it says so in my dreams." In "Angel Baby" Peggy sings "so what if all our dreams don't come true." It peaked at #57 on the Billboard Hot 100. Angel On My Shoulder -- Shelby Flint
[1960] What a great song and a great recording. Even though Shelby is wishing for good fortune that she has not yet attained, I always found this song to be uplifting. Angels Listened In, The -- The Crests
[from the themed set "heaven's latest golden angel"]
[1959] This medium-tempo recording made the chart nine months after "16 Candles" and peaked at #22. In light of Johnny's passing I find this record more poignant than ever. At The Hop -- Danny and the Juniors
[from the themed set "evolution of another major hit"]
[1957] It was Dick Clark who suggested that possibly "Do The Bop" wasn't really "with it" and that the song should be slightly rewritten and retitled "At The Hop." I guess he was right!
They did the "new" song new name -- Danny and the Juniors -- and the rest is history. This rock and roll classic spent seven weeks at #1.
Sadly, Danny committed suicide in 1983. Ba Ba Song -- Alma Cogan
[from the themed set "bah! bah! bah! (and ba!)"]
[1964] Some copies of this list it as "Ba-Ba-Song." This is Alma's German version of "The Whiffenpoof Song." Alma was dubbed "The Girl With the Laugh In Her Voice." Throughout the mid 1950s, she was the most consistently successful female singer in the UK. Tragically her life ended due to illness in 1966, at the age of 34. There will be more records by this wonderful singer on this page in the near future. Bad Boy -- Miami Sound Machine
[from the themed set "bad boys"]
[1986] This was the second hit single by the group fronted by Gloria Estefan. It peaked at #8 on the Billboard Hot 100. Bad Boy -- The Beatles
[from the themed set "bad boys"]
[1965] This recording of a Larry Williams song, from the Beatles album "Beatles VI," was never released as a single. Bad Boy -- The Jive Bombers
[from the themed set "bad boys"]
[1957] The Jive Bombers were an R&B vocal group from Harlem, NY. Clarence Palmer may be a "bad boy" but he's one heck of a lead singer on this great recording! It got as high as #36 on what was then the Billboard Top 100 but became a top ten hit in New York City.
Bad Humor Man, The -- Jimmy Dorsey
[from the themed set "a certain ice cream company was not thrilled with these recordings!"]
[1940] I was debating whether to add two versions of this song. After all it is a novelty. However the two versions are so different that I said "why not"! Besides I wanted you all to hear the "Bad Humor man" in this recording because he sounds like an angry Buffalo Bob! So which of these versions will do "badder" on our chart? Guess we'll soon find out! Bad Humor Man, The -- Kay Kyser
[from the themed set "a certain ice cream company was not thrilled with these recordings!"]
[1940] This song was from a film called "You'll Find Out" in which Kay Kyser and his band meets Boris Karloff, Peter Lorre and Bela Lugosi. The vocalists on this recording are Ish Kabibble, Sully Mason and Harry Babbitt. Bad Motorcycle -- The Storey Sisters
[1958] The story is that this was a Cameo single and peaked at #85 on the chart. I don't anything about the girls, other than reports I've read that state that they changed their name to the Twinkles. Ballad Of Davy Crockett, The -- Bill Hayes
[from the themed set "when crockett was king of the airwaves"]
[1955] Bill's recording was by far the most successful version of the song, topping the national chart for five consecutive weeks. Other charted versions were by Fess Parker (above, #5), Tennesee Ernie Ford (#5) and the Voices Of Walter Schumann.
Bill was a regular on Sid Caesar's TV series "Your Show Of Shows" and eventually achieved additional fame as a TV soap opera star, portraying "Doug Williams" on "Days Of Our Lives."
Listen carefully for the distinctive Jew's harp at the end of the first and second chorus. You can't miss it! That musical instrument is believed to be one of the oldest musical instruments in the world and, despite its common English name, it has no particular connection with the Jewish people or Judaism. The instrument is native to Asia and used in all tribes of Turkish people in Asia where it is variously referred to as a temir komuz, agiz komuzu or gubuz. Aren't you glad you asked? Oh, by the way, many pressings of the Bill Hayess hit (which was on the Cadence label) do not have the Jew's harp which, in fact, was overdubbed. Ballad Of Davy Crockett, The -- Fess Parker
[from the themed set "when crockett was king of the airwaves"]
[1955] The past few days have been very sad because of so many passings. In addition to recording stars, four major TV stars died within a short period of each other: Merlin Olsen, Peter Graves, Robert Culp and Fess Parker, who passed away on March 18 at the age of 85.
Fess was best known for his vivid TV portrayals of two legendary heroes, namely Davy Crockett (in the fifties) and Daniel Boone (in the sixties).
Fess originally played Davy in a 1954 episode of "Disneyland." That was the legendary TV series that featured four "Lands": Adventureland, Fantasyland, Tomorrowland and Frontierland. Guess which "Land" the Crockett show was part of! Fess also did two sequels for Disney and then used them to create the movie "Davy Crockett, King of the Wild Frontier." This song was originally heard in the first episode which was called "Davy Crockett Indian Fighter."
Fess's version of the song might have hit #1 were it not for the competing version by Bill Hayes which, in fact, did top the chart. Nevertheless Fess did make it to #5 which surely is not too shabby for an actor who "also sings."
Pressings of this record actually say "Ballad Of Davy Crockett" (with "The" left out) but I've chosen to include the article to match the title with the Bill Hayes version below. I call this decision "Record Page license"! Ballad Of J.C., The -- Gordon Terry
[19??] I think this record is a gem. It's somewhat inspired by that "hup two three four" #1 hit from 1959. Ballad Of Walter Wart -- The Thorndike Pickledish Choir
[from the themed set "froggy"]
[1966] This record was released on the MTA label with the incorrect title of "Ballad Of WATER Wart"! Well, close enough for frog 'n' roll! My understanding is that a single guy was resonsible for this masterpiece and he had the professional name of Robert O. Smith.
Thanks to Don Effenberger for suggesting this record. Bang! Bang! -- The Joe Cuba Sextet
[from the themed set "let's go latin!"]
[1967] Joe Cuba was a Puerto Rican musician who was considered to be the "Father of Latin Boogaloo". Like Ray Barretto above, he played the conga and achieved commercial crossover success on the Tico label. This recording reached #63 on the national chart and top ten in New York City and others markets.
The other members of his sextet were vocalist Jose "Cheo" Feliciano (no, not THAT J.F.!), vibrophonist Tommy Berrios, pianist Nick Jiminez, bassist Jules Cordero and drummer Jimmy Sabater.
Joe died in February of 2009 at the age of 78.
Some pressings of the single on Tico list the title as "Bang" "Bang" ... others list it as Bang! Bang! I've chosen to list it with the exclamations points because, well, I think it looks better that way! Bangers And Mash -- Peter Sellers and Sophia Loren
[from the themed set "they sing!"]
[1961] This was the flipside of the above record, "Goodness Gracious Me." I like is as much as the "A" side so I've decided to include it here. Banjo Boy -- Jan and Kjeld
[from the themed set "more "banjo" tunes"]
[1960] What a great sound by these two brothers (ages 12 and 14) from Copenhagen, Denmark. It reached #58 on the chart and, to my way of thinking, should have gone much higher. Banjo's Back In Town, The -- Teresa Brewer
[from the themed set "a trio by tessie"]
[195?] One of the happiest banjo tunes you'll ever hear. Beach Ball -- The City Surfers
[1963] I can't for the life of me figure out why this one didn't become a smash. It got plenty of play on WABC in New York City; it was their Pick Hit Of The Week. The City Surfers were a studio group that recorded a couple of surf singles for Capitol Records in 1963. The group featured a young, pre-Byrds Roger McGuinn (who was still known as Jim McGuinn at the time) on guitar and songwriter Frank Gari on vocals. And, oh yes, Bobby Darin on drums! Darin had hired McGuinn a year earlier to play guitar and add some folk flair to his live act. After a few months, however, Darin lost his voice and was forced to temporarily rest it. He shifted McGuinn to his music publishing company, T.M. Music, as a songwriter, and McGuinn and Gari came up with some tunes in an attempt to cash in on the hot surf music craze. So with Darin playing drums and a young Terry Melcher sitting in on piano, "Beach Ball" was born. Though it didn't take wings, it is a rarity that has been eagerly sought by surf-era enthusiasts over the years. Beans In My Ears -- Lonnie Donegan
[from the themed set "battle of the beans"]
[1964] Lonnie's cover version of the Serendipitys' hit was not merely controversial, as noted in my blurb for that record: it was also decidedly politically incorrect! At least give Lonnie credit for not merely copying the Dips; his take on the song is decidedly original. Beans In My Ears -- The Serendipity Singers
[from the themed set "battle of the beans"]
[1964] This controversial song was written by protest singer Len Chandler. This recording was the Serendipity Singers' follow-up to their top-ten hit "Don't Let The Rain Come Down (Crooked Little Man)." Though the lyrics seemed to suggest that people should NOT put beans in their ears, parents as well as doctors were not happy with the song and it got banned in many places including -- of course -- Boston! Nevertheless it made it to #30 on the national chart. Ben -- Michael Jackson
[1972] RIP Michael. Bernadette -- The Four Tops
[from the themed set "our namesakes"]
[1967] One of the greatest lead vocals ever by the late great Levi Stubbs. This record got to #4, the highest charter in this very personal themed set. Better Homes And Gardens -- Bobby Russell
[from the themed set "a trio by songwriter bobby"]
[1969] This is kinda "Bobby, the advice columnist." Beyond The Blue Horizon -- Lou Christie
[1974] This phenomenal recording was heard on the soundtrack of the Dustin Hoffman movie "Rain Man," which won the Best Picture Oscar. And everyone I have ever talked to about it simply LOVES this recording.
So how come radio was pretty much "asleep at the wheel" on this one?
The record spent 10 weeks in the Billboard Hot 100, peaking at a very disappointing #80. To me this deserved to be a number one record.
Commercial success aside, Lou should be mighty proud of this effort. By the way, he still performs it at his concerts and sings it in the original key, as he does with all of his songs!
During the first minute of the actual recording you can bear hear Lou singing with the instruments pretty much drowning him out. That's by design of course. For this sample I've chosen to shorten that part to about 27 seconds so that you can most of the REST of the recording with Lou EMPHATICALLY doing what he does best. Bibbidi-Bobbidi-Boo -- Jo Stafford and Gordon MacRae
[from the themed set "a triple play by jo and gordon"]
[1950] This is a total change-of-pace from the one above and the one below. The song is from the motion picture "Cinderella," in which the fairy godmother sings it. Jo and Gordon sure sound like they loved doing this silly but catchy song. Big Things Are Happening -- Cindy Malone
[1963] Cindy is the niece of the legendary zany bandleader Spike Jones. I love this recording. Bigger Than The Beatles -- Joe Diffie
[from the themed set ""beatles" in the title"]
[1996] We fast forward 32 years to renowned country singer Joe Diffie's lookback on the Beatles pheomenon. It didn't make the pop chart but spent two weeks atop the country chart. Biggest Parakeets In Town, The -- Jud Strunk
[from the themed set "two sides of jud strunk"]
[1975] This song is in marked contrast to "Daisy A Day," the one above this one. Displaying a fabulous comedic sense, Jud tells the story of a woman who is an avid bird fancier. Jud's life was cut short in 1981, as noted in the "Daisy" blurb, but he truly left us with so many great memories. Bimbo -- Jim Reeves
[1953] The second charted single by the man with one of the smoothest voices ever in the country music field. A three-week #1 hit and a delight from start to finish. Enjoyio! Bird Dog -- The Everly Brothers
[from the themed set "he's a bird. he's a dog. he's a bird dog."]
[1958] A wonderful song written by Boudleaux and Felice Bryant, who wrote most of the early Everly Brothers hits. Black And White Rag -- Winifred Atwell
[from the themed set "piano virtuosity"]
[195?] Winifred was one of the the United Kingdom's most popular boogie-woogie and ragtime pianists but she was born in Trinidad. This is one of my all-time favorite ragtime recordings. Black Slacks -- Joe Bennett and the Sparkletones
[from the themed set "sparklin' rock and roll"]
[1957] They were a teenage rock and roll band from Spartanburg, South Carolina and they sure could rock! They consisted of guitarist-vocalist Joe Bennett, guitarist Howard Childress, bassist Wayne Arthur and drummer Irving Denton. This record peaked at #18 on the chart. Blacksmith Blues, The -- Ella Mae Morse
[1952] Ella Mae was a jazz-flavored vocalist who worked briefly with Jimmy Dorsey before reaching a wider audience with the Freddie Slack Band. On this record, her biggest ever, she was backed by the Nelson Riddle Orchestra. It peaked at #3 in Billboard, remaining on the chart for a very impressive 22 weeks. Blackstrap Molasses -- Danny Kaye, Jimmy Durante, Groucho Marx and Jane Wyman
[from the themed set "two goodies by four legends"]
[1951] This peaked at #29 on the chart. Appetizing! Blame It On The Bossa Nova -- Eydie Gorme
[from the themed set "blame or no blame"]
[1963] Eydie's wonderful rendering of this great Barry Mann-Cynthia Weill tune, backed by the Cookies, became her biggest hit, peaking at #7. Some might feel that Mann and Weill had a very creative memory since the verses (at least to my ears) have the identical tune of the Four Lads hit "Gilly, Gilly, Ossenfeffer, Katzenellen Bogen By The Sea," which you can also sample on this Page. Blue Christmas -- Fats Domino
[from the themed set "blue fats"]
[1993] Okay, so it's out of season but, so what? I like this a lot!
This is a song that Elvis reportedly thought was "dumb." I guess the millions of fans who bought his recording and the dozens of others artists who recorded it (including Ernest Tubb who hit with it many years before Elvis did it) disagreed.
I think it's enjoyable listening any time of the year and is a perfect finale for this "blue fats" themed set. Blue Monday -- Fats Domino
[from the themed set "blue fats"]
[1957] Of the five songs here, this is the only one which Fats wrote: he shared the credit with his bandleader and arranger Dave Bartholomew. This peaked at #5 on the chart. Blue Suede Shoes -- Eilert Pilarm
[from the themed set "elvis vs. eilert"]
[19??] NOT the King.
But he does have the King's initials. And people are talking about him. Maybe this should be called "Blue SWEDE Shoes"? Blue Suede Shoes -- Elvis Presley
[from the themed set "elvis vs. eilert"]
[1956] The King. Blueberry Hill -- Fats Domino
[from the themed set "blue fats"]
[1956] "Blueberry Hill" is 1940 song written by Vincent Rose, Al Lewis and Larry Stock. It was recorded six times in 1940, with the biggest version being by Glenn Miller. Fats's rendition became his biggest hit, peaking at #2 for three weeks. Bo Weevil -- Teresa Brewer
[from the themed set "a trio by tessie"]
[1956] This was the "B" side of "A Tear Fell" and a wonderful "B" side it was! The tune was written by Fats Domino, whose version competed with Teresa's. When the smoke cleared, Teresa won that battle. Bob -- Weird Al Yankovic
[2003] This is a style parody of you-know-who. It's from Al's "Poodle Hat" CD. Bobby Sox To Stockings -- Frankie Avalon
[from the themed set ""bobby" songs"]
[1959] Okay, so it's not a conventional "Bobby" song. But I say it's a "Bobby" song nevertheless! Bobby's Girl -- Marcie Blane
[from the themed set ""bobby" songs"]
[1962] Lightweight pop? Perhaps. But it was very catchy and almost everyone enjoyed it. It got to #3 on the Billboard Hot 100. In my view Marcie deserved to have more hits. Her "Little Miss Fool" got to #5 on OUR Top 100! Boom Boom Boomerang -- The DeCastro Sisters
[from the themed set "some called them the "latin andrews sisters""]
[1955] This record, which came out a few months after "Teach Me Tonight," was the sisters' only other national top 40 hit, peaking at #17. That boom, boom, booming bass singer on this recording is none other than the great Thurl Ravenscroft, who also did similar singing chores on Rosemary Clooney's #1 hit "This Ole House"; Thurl was probably best known as the voice of Tony the Tiger in more than 500 television commercials for Kellogg's Frosted Flakes. Born To Be Alive -- Patrick Hernandez
[from the themed set "late-70s disco"]
[1979] Ssinger/songwriter Patrick, born in Paris, France, created this great recording, one of the most uplifting of the disco era. It reached #16 on the Billboard Hot 100.
Thanks to Frank Cavaliere, from Mike Riccio's "Oldies Board," for suggesting this winner. Boy -- Lulu
[1968] "To Sir With Love" was her giant hit in America and she had a few other ones. But in England she had many more hits, including this one. Amazingly "To Sir With Love" was a flop over there. Boy Crazy -- Little Peggy March
[from the themed set "boy crazy"]
[1963] This is the title song of this themed set and was the flipside of Peggy's hit "Hello Heartache, Goodbye Love." Brahms' Lullaby -- Disney Babies album
[from the themed set "bach, beethoven and brahms"]
[19??] There are no babies on this recording. It's a man doing a beautiful rendition of the song which has sometimes been called "The Cradle Song." I could have used recordings of this by any of several superstar artists but this rendering by "the unknown singer" is my personal favorite. Brand New Boy -- The Pixies Three
[from the themed set "boy crazy"]
[1963] The Pixies three were a vocal trio from Hanover, Pennsylvania. The three on this recording were Midge Bollinger, Kaye McCool and Debra Swisher. Bonnie Long replaced Midge in 1964. Brand New Key -- Melanie
[from the themed set "not-so-innocent "key" songs?"]
[1971] Take this #1 hit at face value and you decidedly have a G-rated song. But of course not everyone took it at face value! Bread -- Bobby Hebb
[from the themed set "bread and butter"]
[1966] This was the flipside of Bobby's #2 hit "Sunny" and so very different! Bread And Butter -- The Newbeats
[from the themed set "bread and butter"]
[1964] The Newbeats consisted of falsetto lead singer Larry Henley and brothers Dean and Marc Mathis. Chronologically this record preceeded the other two but, as you know, we don't always list them in that way! Break It To Me Gently -- Brenda Lee
[from the themed set "six brenda ballad hits"]
[1962] Juice Newton got to #11 with her 1982 remake of this great song. Brenda original version, presented here, peaked at #4. Breaking Up Is Hard On You -- American Comedy Network
[1984] Bob Rivers, the morning-show DJ for Seattle's KISW, began recording Weird-Al-type song parodies in 1984 with this recording, a parody of Neil Sedaka's "Breaking Up Is Hard To Do." It was inspired by the lawsuit and the court-ordered split up of AT&T's Bell System. This very funny single broke a lot of people up (LOL) and made it to #70 on the chart. Bumble Boogie -- B. Bumble and the Stingers
[from the themed set "bumble boogie men"]
[1961] This version of what was originally an orchestra interlude written by Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov for his opera "The Tale of Tsar Saltan" got to #21 on the Billboard Hot 100.
B. Bumble and the Stingers were actually a group of studio musicians led by composer-arranger-producer Ernie Freeman. They received an additional "15 minutes of fame" when the group Reunion immortalized them by mentioning them firstin the their hit single "Life Is A Rock (But The Radio Rolled Me." So what if lead singer stuttered their name by opening with "B. B. Bumble and the Stingers" ... it was close enough for rock and roll! Bumble Boogie -- Liberace
[from the themed set "bumble boogie men"]
[195?] There are some people who have said "Liberace was a great showman but could he play something really difficult on the piano?".
I answer with an emphatic "ABSOLUTELY!," present to you this recording in front of an audience that was performed on his TV show and rest my case!
You can also watch this performance on YouTube by visiting http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yAh1IMGexH8. Bus Stop Song (A Paper Of Pins), The -- The Four Lads
[from the themed set "four by the lads"]
[1956] This was introduced in the film of the same name. It's a kinda dumb song but I love it. The guy offers the girl a paper of pins and his feathery bed in exchange for a promise to marry him. But she's demanding and wants his house and his money instead. So what does the guy do? He says "fine"! I remember watching "Name That Tune" and this was the bonus tune at the end of the show and I could have won thousands if I had been the contestant because I knew it! Bushel And A Peck, A -- Perry Como and Betty Hutton
[1950] A fun recording of a song that was from the Frank Loesser Broadway show "Guys And Dolls." Interestingly it was not included in the film version. But I Do -- Clarence "Frogman" Henry
[from the themed set "bobby charles wrote ..."]
[1961] Peakwise this was Bobby's most successful copyright. "Frogman" took it to #4 on the chart. What's really interesting is that initial pressings of the record had the title "I Don't Know Why." It was changed to "But I Do" to avoid confusion with the old standard "I Don't Know Why" which, later in 1961, became a big hit for Linda Scott. Butter Boy -- Fanny
[from the themed set "bread and butter"]
[1975] I couldn't find a record titled simply "Butter" so I happily settled for this upbeat one from the mid-70s. Fanny was a female rock group from Los Angeles and this was one of their two top-forty hits, making it to #29. ("Charity Ball" from four years earlier had peaked at #40). These girls can rock! They paved the way for the 80's groups the Go-Go's and the Bangles. Buttons And Bows -- Dinah Shore
[from the themed set "40's best song oscar winners"]
[1948] 1948 Best Song Oscar winner, from "The Paleface": music by Jay Livingston, lyrics by Ray Evans. This was a #1 hit for Dinah, who is backed up by the Happy Valley Boys. Bye Bye Baby -- Marilyn Monroe
[1953] Marilyn sang this in the blockbuster film "Gentlemen Prefer Blondes." Cajun Honey -- Clarence "Frogman" Henry
[1966] I absolutely believed that it was Fats singing this!
When I found out otherwise, I called up Clarence -- whom I did a radio interview show with about a year and a half ago -- and he said "yes, that's ME" and "no, Fats never recorded it"!
He added: "But you could say I always wanted to BE Fats!"
You must agree that he did a fabulous job "being" Fats on this recording. In fact I will go on record here as saying that I think this is the greatest Fats Domino imitation I have ever heard!
Huey Meaux wrote this song and the record came out on the Parrot label. Candle In The Wind 1997 -- Elton John
[from the themed set "sad songs say so much"]
[1997] Elton's songwriting partner Bernie Taupin rewrote the lyrics to "Candle In The Wind" which was originally a tribute to legendary screen icon Marilyn Monroe. This version was a tribute to Princess Diana who died in an automobile crash in France on August 31, 1997.
This record was #1 on the Billboard Hot 100 for 14 consecutive weeks and sold 11 million copies. Car Phone -- Mr. Obvious
[199?] "Mr. Obvious" is a character created by Chick McGee, a regular on The Bob & Tom Show, which is a comedy radio program established by Bob Kevoian and Tom Griswold at radio station WFBQ in Indianapolis, Indiana, in 1983, and syndicated nationally since 1995. That's all you need to know. Sit back and enjoy the hilarity. But, please, don't do what the "guy on the phone" did! Cara-Lin -- The Strangeloves
[from the themed set "they weren't who they claimed to be"]
[1965] The Strangeloves may have been strange but they were not really "Strange"!
According to the press releases, the Strangeloves were three brothers named Miles, Niles and Giles Strange who had grown up on an Australian sheep farm. The incredible story noted that they had gotten rich with the invention of a new form of sheep crossbreeding (the long-haired "Gottehrer" sheep, allegedly registered with a major company in Australia), allowing them the time and financial freedom to form a band. If that wasn't enough, Miles Strange claimed to be the boomerang champion of Australia!
A great story, but none of was true! The Strangeloves were actually Bob Feldman, Jerry Goldstein and Richard Gottehrer, who among other accomplishments wrote and produced the Angels' #1 hit "My Boyfriend's Back" and produced the McCoys' #1 hit "Hang On Sloopy."
And, for the record, Bob ("Miles") Feldman couldn't throw a boomerang to save his life!
I'm not sure how many bought their story but this record was one of three top forty hits for the group, peaking at #39. Carnival In Rio -- Desi Arnaz (with a goofy lady)
[from the themed set "peter piper picked a peck of you know what"]
[1946] The question is not "who was that lady"? You will all know the answer to that! The real question is "WAS THIS PLANNED?" There have been conflicting reports about the story behind what happend 1:55 into this recording which, in fact, is the only thing that qualifies it to be included in this grouping. Chantilly Lace -- The Big Bopper
[from the themed set "remembering ritchie, buddy and bopper"]
[1958] Jiles Perry Richardson was a deejay at KTRM in Beaumont, Texas as well as being a rock and roll singer and songwriter. He wrote Johnny Preston's #1 pop hit "Running Bear" and George Jones's #1 country hit "White Lightning." Billing himself as the "Big Bopper," he peaked at #6 with this recording, his first and biggest hit. Charlie Wasn't There -- Barbara Evans
[1961] Can anyone explain why this girl with the bubbly personality never had a major chart hit? Sadly Barbara Evans passed away in April of 2000. Cheaper Crude Or No More Food -- Bobby "Sofine" Butler
[1979] To protest the rising cost of gasoline, deejay Bo Weaver at WTTM in Trenton, NJ locked himself in the studio and played this record for several hours! He got fired. Three years later I began working at WTTM in 1982 and, while employed there, I never protested about anything. Chita-Rita -- Forbidden Broadway
[from the themed set "devastating satire from the masters of broadway parody"]
[198?] "Forbidden Broadway" is an Off-Broadway satirical revue created and written by Gerard Alessandrini and directed by Alessandrini and long-time collaborator Phillip George. It opened on January 15, 1982 at Palsson's Supper Club in New York City and ran for 2,332 performances. It has subsequently been rewritten several times to include parodies of newer shows. The show and the many associated recordings sharply spoofs show tunes, characters and plots of past and current Broadway musicals.
Chita Rivera played the role of Anita in the Broadway version of "West Side Story"; Rita Moreno played the same role in the film version. That's all you need to know. Let's get ready to rumble! Cinderella Rockefella -- Esther and Abi Ofarim
[from the themed set "very strange love songs from esther and abi!"]
[1968] Esther and Abi were a married singing team from Israel. Their marriage lasted from 1966 to 1970. This toe-tapping recording hit #1 in England and #68 in the U.S. (Yes, #68 in '68!) Cindy -- Teddy Vann
[from the themed set "in memory of teddy vann"]
[1960] Here's an upbeat vocal recording by Teddy. Though it only managed to "Bubble Under" at #104, it's very well-remembered. Clapping Song, The -- Shirley Ellis
[from the themed set "shirley the three-hit "fun"der"]
[19651] This was the third of Shirley's three happy national top-40 hits, all of which were written by her manager, record producer and songwriting partner Lincoln Chase. UB40, in their 1988 re-issue of "Red Red Wine" (which hit #1 on the chart), included the "goose drank wine" jingle that Shirley uses in this recording, which in turn went back many years before Lincoln wrote the song. Cloudburst -- Don Lang
[1955] It's hard to believe that this is the same Don Lang that sang the British hit version of "Witch Doctor" which is currently in our Top 20. This recording, done at frantic speed, came out three years before that one. Speaking of frantic, Don was a British trombone player and singer whose band was called the Frantic Five. His music is best known in the United Kingdom and on this Page.
Okay, sing along with Don! Cocoanut Woman -- Harry Belafonte
[from the themed set "coconuts anybody?"]
[1957] A rolicking track by the wonderful Belafonte and the "A" side of "Island In The Sun," which I plan to add in the near future. Coconut -- Nillson
[from the themed set "coconuts anybody?"]
[1972] I guess right after this record became a hit most of us started putting the lime in the coconut. Colonel Bogey -- Edmundo Ros
[from the themed set "these competing "bogey" men are 97 and 98 respectively!"]
[1958] Edmundo, who celebrated his 98th birthday last December 7, reached #75 on the chart with this recording.
He simply uses "Colonel Bogey" as his title, although the melody throughout seems identical to Mitch's version, for Kwai-ing out loud!
See the Mitch blurb for the history of all this. Even after all this copious research, I must admit that I don't really know where "Bogey" ends and "Kwai" begins or vice versa! Yikes!
Color Him Father -- The Winstons
[from the themed set "for dad"]
[1969] They were an R&B sextet from Washington, DC and the lead vocalist on this wonderful "father" song was Richard Spencer. Combine Harvester (Brand New Key) -- The Wurzels
[from the themed set "not-so-innocent "key" songs?"]
[1976] The Wurzels have been described as a British "Scrumpy and Western" band! They have been performing for over 40 years. Based in Somerset, England, they are best-known for this take-off on Melanie's "Brand New Key" which came out five years after her smash hit and was #1 in England for two weeks. If you want to hear a "way out in left field" record, just click here! Come And Get Your Love -- Redbone
[1974] Redbone was a Native American "swamp rock" group that originated in Los Angeles. They consisted of Lolly Vegas (lead vocalist and guitarist), his brother Pat Vegas (vocalist and bassist), Anthony Bellamy (guitarist) and Peter De Poe (drums). Lolly passed away on March 4 and I'm putting this great recording up in his memory. It's one of my personal favorite records of the mid 70s. It peaked at #5 and remained in the Billboard Hot 100 for a very impressive 23 weeks. More information about Redbone can be found on the Daily News page Copper Clapper Caper -- Jack Webb and Johnny Carson
[1968] Sgt. Friday and the all-time king of late night comedy. An absolute treasure!
Note: you can watch the video of the actual TV broadcast at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F4RIBhQIkII. Court Of King Caractacus, The -- Rolf Harris
[from the themed set "two sides of the wobble board king"]
[1964] Everybody sing! Crazy Arms -- Jerry Lee Lewis
[from the themed set "rock on, boogieman!"]
[1956] This was Jerry Lee's very first Sun single and it was a KILLER! It was his wonderful cover of the Ray Price #1 C&W smash "Crazy Arms." Though it failed to make the Top 100, it set the stage for his next one, namely "Whole Lot Of Shakin' Going On."
I believe that the only two instruments on this recording and the one below are Jerry Lee's "pumping" piano and drums. That's all that were needed!
This is an unheralded classic! Crazy Mixed Up Song -- Peter Lind Hayes and Mary Healy
[from the themed set "two crazy songs by this genial duo"]
[1953] Peter Lind Hayes was a vaudeville entertainer, songwriter, and film and TV actor. He was He appeared in films throughout the 1930s and 1940s and had a significant television career in the 1950s. He often appeared with his wife Mary Healy, to whom he was married from 1940 until his death in 1998.
The two of them made some silly recordings and the two here are modest examples. You may have thought that the title of this song is "Be Kind To Your Web-Footed Friends." Well it isn't.
(Please listen to this to see why I just made that comment!) Crazy Otto Rag -- The Stargazers
[1955] The Stargazers were a very popular four man/one woman vocal group on BBC radio throughout the 1950s. Their recordings were mostly covers but I believe that they were the only act to record this particular song. This record peaked at #18 on the British chart. Crazy Otto, The -- Johnny Maddox
[1955] Johnny is backed by the Rhythmasters on this medley of German tunes inspired by the renowned honky tonk pianist Crazy Otto, whose real name was Fritz Schulz-Reichel. This record never made #1 but was #2 for seven weeks in a row. Credit Card Song, The -- Dick Feller
[from the themed set "funny feller"]
[1974] IBM punch cards were very prevalent until the mid-70s. This song may now be somewhat dated because they have gone out of style; however credit cards are still very much a part of our life. And as was the case back then, computers do not lie. Right? Wacky country music at its very best. Crude Oil Blues, The -- Jerry Reed
[from the themed set "two still-timely reed-cords from the 70s"]
[1974] This record came out during the oil shortage and gas lines. We have neither today but we certainly have "the crude oil blues" for a very different reason that has saddened us all. So the primary timeliness here is because of the title rather than what Jerry is describing here.
Though the subject was actually quite serious at the time, Jerry managed to generate many chuckles with this recording. Cry Baby -- The Bonnie Sisters
[from the themed set "50's sisters, real and imaginary"]
[1956] These are the IMAGINARY sisters in this category, although there are reputable books out there that claim that they were real sisters. Not so. They were Pat Ryan, Sylvia Totter and Jean Borgia, and they worked together as nurses at New York City's Bellevue Hospital. Legend has it that they were all dressed alike in Scotch print skirts and blouses. "Cry Baby" had been the B-side of a record by the Scarlets (later the Five Satins) and, partly because of the unusual situation of being an R&B record recorded by three white girls, it reached #18 on the pop chart. Cry Baby -- The Scarlets
[1955] You've heard the Bonnie Sisters recording of this song and now you can listen to the original. It was written by Fred Parris who eventually gained fame as the lead singer of the Five Satins. Here he is with his former group, called the Scarlets, singing the song that brought the Bonnie Sisters "15 minutes of fame" in 1956 and perhaps another "5 seconds of fame" on my Record Page.
Cry Like A Baby -- The Box Tops
[from the themed set "in memory of alex chilton"]
[1968] This release was the second one following "The Letter" and it also was a substantial success, spending two weeks at its peak position of #2. The Box Tops were probably crying all the way to the bank! Cry Me A River -- Susan Boyle
[1999] Susan stunned the judges (and ultimately the world) with her susprisingly incredible performance of "I Dreamed A Dream" from "Les Miserables" on the TV show "Britain's Got Talent." This recording, of a song originally made famous by Julie London, is from a 1999 charity CD which now has bids on Ebay exceeding 2000 dollars. A star is born and everyone rejoices! Cry Of The Dying Duck In A Thunderstorm -- Cactus Pryor and the Pricklypears
[1950] Cactus was a longtime DJ at KTBC in Austin, Texas. He was voted into the Country Music DJ Hall Of Fame. Luckily birds were not members of the voting panel. This ruffled a few feathers but amazingly it got to #7 on the country chart. Cube, The -- Bob Jenkins (with 3-year-old daughter Mandy)
[1982] This Liberty single got to #76 on the country chart. Mandy may well be the youngest artist ever identified by name on a charted single. (The babies on Buzz Clifford's "Baby Sittin' Boogie" don't count because they are not idenfitied.) I think this is a really cute single. But the line about a guy doing it in 28 seconds on TV is a bit dated. The top kids were doing it much faster than that shortly after this record charted! Daddy Come Home -- George Jones and daughter Georgette
[1981] Georgette is George and Tammy Wynette's daughter. She eventually became a registered nurse at a Nashville hospital. Daddy Don't You Walk So Fast -- Wayne Newton
[from the themed set "for dad"]
[1972] It was Daniel Boone, known in the U.S. for his hit "Beautiful Sunday," who did the original version of this song. But it was Wayne Newton who did a remake and turned "Daddy" into a huge hit. It peaked at #4 on the chart and I am sure that he said "Danke Schoen" many times to his fans who made it happen! Daddy's Home -- Shep and the Limelites
[from the themed set "for dad"]
[1961] James "Shep" Sheppard, formerly with the Heartbeats, sang lead on this record with this new group, consisting of himself and Clarence Bassett and Charles Baskerville. It was a sequel to the Heartbeats recording of "A Thousand Miles Away" and became a much bigger hit, peaking at #2 on the pop chart. Sadly Shep was shot to death in 1970. He was only 34. Daisy A Day -- Jud Strunk
[from the themed set "two sides of jud strunk"]
[1973] Jud was a singer and comedian who became a regular on Rowan and Martin's "Laugh-In" during its last season. Though best known for his humorous songs, his most popular was this poignant one which he wrote and recorded in 1973. This touching ballad describes the relationship between a boy and girl as they grow up together and ultimately grow old together. When this was popular I was working for Casey Kasem and had the pleasure of interviewing Jud and telling him how much this song moved me and members of my family as well. Sadly, in 1981, Jud was killed in a plane crash. He was only 45. What a wonderful song he left us. Dance By The Light Of The Moon -- The Olympics
[from the themed set "three goodies by this gold-medal group"]
[1960] Talk about a popular tune! It started out as "Buffalo Gals," written and published as "Lubly Fan" in 1844 by the minstrel John Hodges, who performed as "Cool White." Eventually it resurfaced in 1944 with several charted versions as "Dance With A Dolly (With A Hole In Her Stocking)," in 1959 as Bobby Darin's "Plain Jane," in 1960 as Ray Smith's "Rockin' Little Angel" and in the same year as the Olympics doing this catchy ditty. Dark Moon -- Gale Storm
[from the themed set "the two biggest hits by our beloved "margie""]
[1957] This was Gale's last charted record and her second biggest hit. The song was written by Ned Miller, the man who later hit with "From A Jack To A King." Gale competed on the chart with a version by Bonnie Guitar. When the smoke cleared, Bonnie's version peaked at #6 and this version peaked at #4. Day That Curly Billy Shot Down Crazy Sam McGee, The -- The Hollies
[from the themed set "a hollies hit and its clone"]
[1973] Why didn't this become a hit? Too much of a good thing? I think it deserved a better fate. Dear Mr. Godfrey -- Ruth Wallis
[1953] Ruth was best-known for her double-entendre risque and satirical songs which she wrote as well as sang. Though Dr. Demento played many of them on his syndicated radio show starting in the 70s, they received relatively little airplay when originally released. Ruth's only charted record was this novelty and there was no need to search for hidden meanings: it was very clear what this was about. The famous (or was it INFAMOUS) incident occurred on Arthur Godfrey's TV and radio show. On October 19, 1953, after lavishing praise on Julius LaRosa in introducing the singer's performance of "Manhattan," Godfrey thanked him and then announced to the world that this was LaRosa's "swan song" with the show. LaRosa was dumbfounded, since he had not been informed beforehand of his "departure"! At a subsequent press conference, Godfrey claimed that LaRosa had "lost his humility." That's the basic hook line in Ruth's intriguing record. Dedication Song, The -- Freddy Cannon
[from the themed set "radio waves"]
[1966] This goes out to all of you Freddy fans who liked his work on Warner Brothers as well as Swan. This encore came five years after "Transistor Sister" and shortly after his "Action" hit (which was the theme song from "Where The Action Is" and could easily have beebn given that title). Delicious! -- Jim Backus and Friend
[1958] Most everyone knows that beloved actor and comedian Jim Backus was the voice of "Mr. Magoo" and played Thurston Howell III on the smash hit TV show "Gilligan's Island." I remember him for another TV show, playing domestic court judge Bradley J. Stevens on the hit sitcom "I Married Joan."
This recording was surely one of the most unusual ever to make the national top 40, peaking in fact at that position. I won't describe it because there may be some here who are not familiar with it and they deserve the pleasure of being surprised.
What I don't know is the identity of the lady, the "friend" if you will. Several have speculated that it is Phyllis Diller.
Here's what Dr. Demento (Barry Hansen) told me moments ago in an email: "I asked Phyllis Diller about this directly, and she declared she was not involved. She said that she thought it was Jim Backus' wife, Henny. I haven't been able to confirm that beyond a doubt (Henny has passed away) but that seems reasonable and has been confirmed as a good guess by some others I've spoken to." Denise -- Randy and the Rainbows
[from the themed set "our namesakes"]
[1963] Lead singer Dominick "Randy" Safuto insists that the Rainbows are singing "Denise dooby doo" but many people insist that they're singing "Denise shooby doo"! You be the judge. The record got to #10. Dern Ya -- Ruby Wright
[1964] Ruby was the daughter of country stars Johnny Wright and the "Queen Of Country Music" Kitty Wells. This was her best-known recording, an answer record to Roger Miller's "Dang Me." It peaked at #13 on the country chart. Sadly, after battling numerous heart problems, Ruby passed away on September 27.
Note: Ruby was sometimes confused with a British vocalist from England with the same name but, other than their professional names being identical, they had no connection to each other. Deteriorata -- National Lampoon
[1972] The late Norman Rose is the narrator and Melissa Manchester is the singer on this recording which makes fun of Les Crane's surprise hit "The Desiderata." Well, at least you know that she CAN sing! Christopher Guest wrote the parody. The views expressed in this edited sample (which is about half the length of the original recording) are not mine, except for "rotate your tires." That's not a bad idea. I'll bet Les (who is deceased) laughed at this spoof of his hallowed hit. Devil Woman -- Marty Robbins
[from the themed set "bad girls"]
[1962] Marty peaked at #16 on the pop chart and spent eight weeks at #1 on the country chart with this wonderful record. My favorite line is "Even the seagulls are happy." They don't write 'em like that anymore!
Ding Dong -- The McGuire Sisters
[from the themed set "happy girl group sounds"]
[1958] Another school-oriented recording (see the Bobbettes record above) and a bell-ringer indeed! The guys you hear on the record were not part of the group (well duh!) but they do contribute nicely. This were the sisters' follow-up to "Sugartime." Disco Inferno -- The Trammps
[from the themed set "late-70s disco"]
[1977] This recording by this disco quintet from Philadelphia was hot on so many levels. It was from the film "Saturday Night Fever" and peaked at #53 when first released. Then it got re-released in early 1978 and it burned much brighter, reaching #11. Do The Bop -- The Juvenairs
[from the themed set "evolution of another major hit"]
[1957] Johnny Madara is doing the lead singing on this, backed by the group that would shortly be calling themselves Danny and the Juniors. This is the way THEIR giant hit started out! Do You Take This Woman For Your Lawful Wife -- The American Quartet
[1914] There were a few American Quartets and it's difficult to find out who the personnel were on this recording. I am reasonably certain, however, that Billy Murray is on it. He was one of the most popular singers in the United States in the early decades of the 20th century and best known for comedy recordings. D-O-D-G-E-R-S Song -- Danny Kaye
[from the themed set "our national pastime"]
[1962] The legendary entertainer hits a grand slam home run with this recording. Dogface Soldier -- Russ Morgan
[from the themed set "just keep marching"]
[1955] This record and the one above by Art Mooney, in my judgment, should have both made #1 on the chart. That's how much I loved them way back when! Art's got to #6 and this one got to #30.
This one was featured in the movie "To Hell And Back" starring Audie Murphy. Doin' The Napoleon -- Napoleon XIV
[from the themed set "what were they thinking? (questionable follow-ups to huge hits)"]
[1966] Follow-up to "They're Coming To Take Me Away, Ha-Haaa!" Napoleon (AKA Jerry Samuels) firmly cemented his stature as a one-hit wonder with this masterpiece. "Doin' The Jerry" might have done better! Domani -- Julius LaRosa
[from the themed set "two gems by Julie"]
[1955] Super duper bravissimo! Dominique -- The Glee Club
[2008] This "group" is actually Guy Villari, the lead singer of the Regents on their smash hit "Barbara Ann." He overdubbed his voice nine times! Donna -- Ritchie Valens
[from the themed set "remembering ritchie, buddy and bopper"]
[1959] On February 3, 1959, a small-plane crash near Clear Lake, Iowa, killed three popular rock and roll artists: Ritchie Valens, Buddy Holly and J. P. Richardson, known professionally as "The Big Bopper." Don McLean referred to it several years later in "American Pie" as "The Day The Music Died. The artists had been performing as part of a tour called the "Winter Dance Party," which was scheduled to cover 24 cities in three weeks.
There is plenty on the Internet regarding the events leading up to this tragic event, the event itself and the aftermath, so I will dispense here with further comments other than to note that this this coming Wednesday is the 51nd anniversary of that sad day that shocked the music world.
Ritchie was a singer/songwriter/guitarist who appeared in the movie "Go Johnny Go" and, 28 years after his death, a movie called "La Bamba" that was based on his life was released. "Donna" was the "A" side of a two-sided hit for Ritchie, peaking at #2 on the chart; its flipside "La Bamba" peaked at #22 Donna Loves Jerry -- Donna Lynn
[1963] I can't figure out why this record wasn't a hit. Same with "Java Jones", which I'll probably put up here in the near future. Don't Blame The Bossa Nova -- Jackie Mason
[from the themed set "blame or no blame"]
[1963] Here's the opposing view by the delightful Mr. Mason. Incidentally, doesn't the opening of this sound very much like Los Del Rio's "Macarena"? Don't Cry Daddy -- Elvis Presley
[from the themed set "sad songs say so much"]
[1969] Elvis's touching rendering of a Mac Davis composition. Down At Papa Joe's -- The Dixiebelles
[from the themed set "dixie girls"]
[1963] This is a tune that many of you have probably played on the piano, along with "Chopsticks." To me, this was one of those incredibly-catchy "can't miss" recordings and, happily, it did NOT miss! Downtown -- Mrs. Miller
[from the themed set "mrs. miller vs. mrs. edwards"]
[1966] Say what you want about her but Elva Ruby Connes Miller (1907–1997), who recorded under the name Mrs. Miller, is memorable. She recorded hit songs in her own inimitable style. So what if Irving Wallace, David Wallechinsky, and Amy Wallace in "The Book of Lists 2" compared her voice to "roaches scurrying across a trash can lid." That's only three people's opinions.
Obviously this single, from the album "Mrs. Miller's Greatest Hits," was somewhat of a joke. Many have questioned whether Mrs. Miller herself was in on the joke and whether she could REALLY sing okay. I suspect that she indeed was very much in on the joke and deliberately performed in the style she displays here. As for whether she could REALLY sing okay, I haven't a clue. There are reports that she wanted to record a "serious" album but never got the chance.
For the record this recording got to #82 on the chart and its flipside, "A Lover's Concerto," got to #95. It was a two-sided charter for the artist people loved to laugh at.
Anyway, in this mythical battle, I now present contender #1: Mrs. Miller! Drugstore Rock 'N' Roll -- Janis Martin
[from the themed set "two more by "the female elvis""]
[1956] "Will You, Willyum" has been in our Top Ten since day one. This is its flipside and was written by Janis. There are differences of opinion as to which of these sides was, in reality, the "A" side. I simply say: "both great"! Dueling Banjos -- Eric Weissberg and Steve Mandell
[from the themed set "more "banjo" tunes"]
[1972] Technically this record could be called "Dueling Guitar and Banjo" because it's Steve Mandell playing guitar (which opens the record) and Eric Weissberg playing banjo. The song was written in 1955 but didn't really take wings until 1972, when it was featuring in the motion picture "Deliverance." I'm listing 1972 as the year but, technically it made the Billboard Hot 100 in January of 1973 and got to #2, where it remained for an amazing four weeks.
In the complete version of this record, it takes about two minutes to get to the fast part. In this edited sample we only take one minute to get there.
What an incredible record! Dum Dum -- Joy Layne
[from the themed set "dum dum and drummer"]
[1957] You were expecting Brenda Lee? Well maybe I'll put HER "Dum Dum" here in the near future. This is a different "Dum Dum" and it was the flipside of Teresa Brewer soundalike Joy Layne's top-20 hit "Your Wild Heart." Dusty -- The Rag Dolls
[from the themed set "a "dawn" sound-alike and a dawn sound-alike"]
[1965] The Rag Dolls were a Philadelphia-based group consisting of lead singer Jean Thomas, Mikie Harris and Susan Lewis. Though this record came out about a year after the Four Seasons' "Dawn (Go Away)," it was a concerted effort to emulate the sound and essence of that specific recording. "Dusty" peaked at #55 on Billboard Hot 100. Duvid Crockett -- Mickey Katz
[from the themed set "when crockett was king of the airwaves"]
[1955] You just KNEW I would throw this one in, right? Echoes -- Jo Stafford and Gordon MacRae
[from the themed set "a triple play by jo and gordon"]
[1950] This is a serious song which is in the "Whispering Hope" vein. Their voices blend so wonderfully. Eh Cumpari -- Julius LaRosa
[from the themed set "arthur vs. julius"]
[1953] Information about what led to the Arthur Godfrey's firing of Julius LaRosa on the air is readily available on the Internet. I will briefly describe here what happened on the night of the infamous event.
On October 19, 1953, Arthur gave Julius a wonderful introduction and the singer performed "Manhattan." Arthur then thanked him and announced that this was Julius's "swan song" with the show, adding "He goes now, out on his own, as his own star, soon to be seen on his own programs, and I know you'll wish him godspeed as much as I do". He then signed off "This is the CBS Radio Network". Needless to say Julius, along with the rest of the country, was absolutely dumbfounded at this shocking event. Arthur would claim a few days later that he fired Julius because he had "lost his humility" but the public didn't buy that and the incident precipitated a gradual but steady fall in Arthur's popularity.
Julius got some consolation from the fact that this recording was climbing the chart at the time. His firing, I am sure, contributed to its rising to #2, becoming his biggest hit ever. Even though it's completely in Italian, there's no doubt what he's singing about. When I met Julius a few years ago, he confided to me that he was not at all crazy about the song: "It was silly then and it's silly now." He much preferred "Domani," which is also on this Page.
One more note: Ruth Wallis's comedic take on the Julius LaRosa firing is also on this Page. It's called "Dear Mr. Godfrey." 18 Yellow Roses -- Bobby Darin
[from the themed set "21 yellow roses"]
[1963] Bobby wrote and sang this touching song. El Barkio -- Spike Jones, Eileen Gallagher and Lassie
[1949] This is from the Spike Jones Radio Show which aired on May 28, 1949.
Some people have doubted my statements that Lassie guested on Spike's show and, in fact, sang a duet with Miss Gallagher entitled "El Barkio," a take-off on Luigi Arditi's operatic waltz entitled "Il Bacio" (The Kiss).
Well, okay. Lassie DID guest on the show. And Lassie BARKED on that recording!
But I must admit that Lassie DID NOT -- repeat, DID NOT -- do the accompanying howling and harmonizing "canine" sounds.
That honor goes to a seasoned BARKground singer, a HUMAN BEING, namely Dr. Horatio Q. Birdbath, whose real name was A. Purves Pullen. (You can understand why he changed it to something more inviting.) He appeared a few years later on "What's My Line" as a "professional bird imitator." Yep! he was a BIRD! He was a DOG! He was a BIRD DOG! And though his name was wasn't Johnny, he surely was a JOKER!
El Watusi -- Ray Barretto
[from the themed set "let's go latin!"]
[1963] Ray Barretto was a Grammy Award-winning Puerto Rican jazz musician who is widely credited as the godfather of Latin jazz. This recording, on the Tico label, was a suprise crossover hit and a very big one, peaking at #17 nationwide and top ten in New York City and other markets. Ray felt that it was both a blessing and a curse because it stereotyped him: he complained "of all my records, this is the only one that many people want to hear!"
In the 70s Ray played the conga on recordings by the Rolling Stones and the Bee Gees.
In 1990, he won a Grammy for the album Ritmo en el Corazon ("Rhythm in the Heart"), which featured vocal by Celia Cruz. In 1999, he was inducted into the International Latin Music Hall of Fame.
He remained an active performer until his death, which occurred in February of 2006. He was 76. Elements, The -- Tom Lehrer
[195?] The tune should sound familiar. It's that of Gilbert and Sullivan's "I Am The Very Model Of A Modern Major General" from their operetta "The Pirates Of Penzance." Eloise -- Kay Thompson
[from the themed set "bad girls"]
[1956] Ah yes, this little girl was "bad" but you loved her just the same (after all, she was only six!). Kay wrote a series of Eloise books and wrote and sang this endearing novelty. So what if she didn't really sound like a six-year-old girl, the record still oozes with fun. Emotions -- Brenda Lee
[from the themed set "six brenda ballad hits"]
[1961] Emotional Brenda at her very best! This peaked at #7. Eternal Flame -- The Bangles
[198?] This is by far my favorite recording from this girl group. Every Day Of My Life -- Bobby Vinton
[1972] This recording failed to make the top ten -- peaking at #24 -- but was every bit as good as Bobby's nine which did. Everyone Was There -- Bob Kayli
[from the themed set "50's hits that mention other 50's hits"]
[1958] Bob is the brother of Motown entrepreneur Berry Gordy Jr. This rare recording is so catchy and it amazed me that it did not achieve the success of the other three records within this category. Feudin' and Fightin' -- Dorothy Shay
[from the themed set "don't these tunes sound alike?"]
[1947] While preparing for an interview with Don Cherry last year I reviewed his hit records. When I came to "Wild Cherry" I said to myself "golly, I know that sounds like some other song"! It didn't take long for me to figure out that it was THIS one: "Feudin' and Fightin" which had come out nine years earlier.
Dorothy was a popular comedic recording artist in the late 1940s and early 1950s who later became a character actress. She was known as the "Park Avenue Hillbillie" and that's not a typo, that's the way it was spelled! In her singing engagements she performed dressed as a sophisticated urbanite while talking like a rural Southerner. This was her most popular recording, peaking at #4 on the chart. Fifties, The -- Pinkard and Bowden
[198?] I know that Pinkard and Bozo, uh, Bowden are just kidding. Right? Final Record Offer -- Wayne and Shuster
[197?] Johnny Wayne and Frank Shuster were a Canadian comedy duo who were active professionally from the early 1940s until the late 1980s and made many appearances on the "Ed Sullivan Show." This recording is from an early 1971 Canadian TV show.
You can watch the actual video performance of this at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=csFEu8q0nZ0. Fire Red Thunderbird -- James and Dean
[from the themed set "thunderbird songs other than you-know-what!"]
[2001] Technically these guys bill themselves as "James/Dean" (James slash Dean) but I prefer to list them -- as many others do -- as James AND Dean. This record reminds me a lot of "Bang-A-Gong (Get It On)" by T. Rex. Firefly -- Tony Bennett
[from the themed set "it's all the same insect to me"]
[1958] One of my favorites by Anthony Benedetto. At exactly 1 minute and 24 seconds into this, Tony gets really animated! First Anniversary -- Cathy Carr
[from the themed set "aaron schroeder wrote ..."]
[1959] Aaron co-wrote this song with Sid Wayne.
Coincidentally it's another "First" song.
Cathy shot to fame with her #2 recording of "Ivory Tower." This was her second biggest hit and, surprisingly to me, it only got to #42. I think it's a touching song and deserved a much better fate.
Sadly, Cathy passed away in 1988. Surely she was a fine and under-rated singer. First Name Initial -- Annette
[from the themed set "aaron schroeder wrote ..."]
[1959] Aaron co-wrote this song with Martin Kalmanoff.
Annette, the best-known Mousketeer, took this to #20 on the chart. Fish Fight Song -- Da Yoopers
[from the themed set "we go from yippers to yoopers!"]
[1989] A musical animated discussion between husband and wife! See the "Deer Camp" blurb for detailed info about the group. Fit As A Fiddle -- Gene Kelly and Donald O'Connor
[1952] "Singin' In The Rain" is regarded by many as the greatest filmusical of all time. It starred Gene Kelly, Donald O'Connor and Debbie Reynolds and offered a humorous depiction of Hollywood and its transition from silent films to talkies. This short, rollicking number by Gene and Donald, is one of its many highlights. Flowers On The Wall -- The Statler Brothers
[from the themed set "kangarooney tunes"]
[1965] This record qualifies because it mentions Caption KANGAROO. It peaked at #4 on the pop chart (and #2 country) and was written by the late Lew Dewitt, one of their four original members; the others were brothers Harold and Don Reid and Phil Balsley. Though they never had another major pop hit, they became a superstar country act, charting with close to 70 records. Flyin' Saucers Rock 'N' Roll -- Billy Lee Riley
[from the themed set "in memory of a fabulous rockabilly artist"]
[1957] Billy Lee was the son of a sharecropper and he learned to play guitar from black farm workers. After four years in the Army, he first recorded in Memphis, Tennessee in 1955 before Sam Phillips signed him to Sun records. "Flyin' Saucers Rock 'N' Roll" was his second Sun release. Though it achieved some regional action, it never became the big hit which it (along with the other record here) deserved to be. Though Billy Lee never achieved much commercial success, he was a very active performer over the years and is now considered a rockabilly legend.
He was recently diagnosed with Stage 4 cancer and he passed away on August 2, 2009 at the age of 75.
Follow Me -- Mary Travers
[from the themed set "in memory of mary travers"]
[1971] This was Mary's only solo hit, peaking at #56 in 1971. It's a wonderful rendering of a beautiful song penned by John Denver, the writer of Peter, Paul and Mary's only #1 hit, "Leaving On A Jet Plane." Follow That Girl -- Vinnie Monte
[1961] I don't know much about this artist other than the fact that he recorded for many labels and that I loved this record when it first hit and wondered why it never made the record chart. It contains many of the elements of very successful Del Shannon and Lou Christie records. Fool #1 -- Brenda Lee
[from the themed set "six brenda ballad hits"]
[1961] This is surely a country song and the recording is as country as it is pop. So how can you explain that this recording and all of the other recordings here did NOT make the country chart? My answer to that is "go figure"! On the pop chart this was huge, peaking at #3. Football Card, The -- Glenn Sutton
[1979] Glenn was a country music songwriter and producer who wrote or co-wrote hits by Tammy Wynette, Jerry Lee Lewis, David Houston and Lynn Anderson (who he was once married to).
He wrote this whimsical song about gambling on NFL games for himself and it came close to hitting the top 40 on the pop chart. Though the song is now dated because the players he mentions are all retired (and so are the "Baltimore Colts") the sentiments expressed are still very timely. This song still makes me chuckle. For The Good Times -- Ray Price
[from the themed set "get well wishes go out to these three country stars"]
[1970] Ray, the great Cherokee Cowboy, underwent major surgery to have pre-cancerous polyps removed and is said to be making a slow but steady recovery. When he received his long-overdue induction into the Country Music Hall Of Fame in 1996, he said "It's about time!" and few would disagree. He placed over 110 records on the country chart. This recording of a wonderful Kris Kristofferson tune was his biggest pop crossover hit, reaching #11 on the pop chart and #1 on the country chart. Foreign Novelty Smash -- The Credibility Gap
[from the themed set "clap for the gap"]
[1973] From Rhino's album of "World's Worst Records Volume 2." Maybe they missed the hidden message. Forever Ambrose -- Linda Laurie
[from the themed set "who can forget the strange "guy" who kept saying "just keep walking!"?"]
[1960] Though this "Ambrose" sequel never charted -- let's face it, novelties are difficult to follow-up successfully -- I like it a lot, maybe as much as the original. Forever Lovers -- Mac Davis
[from the themed set "sad songs say so much"]
[1976] Mac has written several sad songs during his career but he didn't write this one. The writer was Sterling Whipple, whose biggest success as a writer was with the song "The Last Game Of The Season (The Blind Man In The Bleachers)." Fortuneteller -- Bobby Curtola
[from the themed set "but seer-iously"]
[1962] This wonderful recording was Bobby's only significant hit in the United States, peaking at #41. However Bobby, born in Port Arthur, Ontario, Canada, has become a superstar in his native country. Four Years Of High School Spanish -- The Four Postmen
[1996] The Four Postmen are a Los Angeles based rock group that consisting of five band members. And, believe me, that's not the only thing strange about them. They have for years been favorites of Dr. Demento. This record is from a CD that was released in 1997 called "Looking For Grandpa." Since the Good Doctor began playing this track the previous year, that's what I'll list here. The group is best known for their 2001 record "The Chainsaw Juggler" which our screening committee has judged to be a bit too rough for this Page. This record is mostly in Spanish and, since I really don't have any idea what the words mean, I'm hoping that there's nothing too raunchy here: if there is, please let me know or just snicker and keep quiet! These Postmen have surely delivered a weird one here! 1432 Franklin Pike Circle Hero -- Bobby Russell
[from the themed set "a trio by songwriter bobby"]
[1968] Bobby was a gifted Nashville songwriter who wrote two #1 hits, "Honey" recorded by Bobby Goldsboro and "The Night The Lights Went Out In Georgia" recorded by Vicki Lawrence (his wife at the time). Equally well-known is his song "Little Green Apples," won him a Song of the Year Grammy Award in 1968; the most successful recording of that song was by O.C. Smith (it hit #2 on the national chart) but there were many others as well.
Bobby had his own hits with songs that he wrote which took a whimsical look at suburbia. The recordings presented here, which were his biggest as an artist, all had that theme. This one peaked at #36.
Sadly Bobby passed away in 1992 from heart disease at the age of 52. Freckles And Polliwog Days -- Ferlin Husky
[from the themed set "get well wishes go out to these three country stars"]
[1974] Ferlin was admitted to the critical care unit of a Hermitage, Tennessee hospital on Thursday, July 2, suffering from an accelerated heart rate and possibly pneumonia and was described as "very weak." However, as I type this comment, word is that he's expected to be released from the hospital shortly. This Grand Ole Opry star has sold more than 30 million records. This recording was his last top 30 hit on the country chart and it's incredibly catchy. In my opinion this should have been as big as "Gone" and "Wings Of A Dove." It's a fabulous summertime sound. Enjoy! Freedom Blues -- Little Richard
[from the themed set "three lesser-known goodies by mr. penniman"]
[1970] This was Little Richard's comeback record, coming well after his "retirement." It nearly made the national top-forty, peaking at #47. Frogg -- The Brothers Four
[from the themed set "froggy"]
[1961] This was a hip version of a tune written back in 1580 as "Frog Went A Courtin'." Fun, Fun, Fun -- The Beach Boys
[from the themed set "thunderbird songs other than you-know-what!"]
[1964] The word "Thunderbird" never appears in the song but it mostly assuredly IS a Thunderbird song with its most memorable line: "we'll have fun, fun, fun, till your daddy takes your T-Bird away." Gang That Sang "Heart Of My Heart", The -- The Four Aces
[from the themed set "in memory of al alberts"]
[1953] Al was the lead singer of the Four Aces, an incredibly popular group out of Chester, PA, that had 10 top-ten hits including this one. The other members, who sang on all of their most successful recordings, were Dave Mahoney (tenor), Sal Vaccaro (baritone) and Lou Silvestri (bass).
In 1962 he began hosting a local television program which featured child singers and dancers from the Philadelphia area; that show ran for more than 30 years.
The Four Aces were inducted into the Vocal Group Hall of Fame in 2001.
Al passed away on November 26 at his Arcadia, Florida retirement home. He was 87. Gilly, Gilly, Ossenfeffer, Katzenellen Bogen By The Sea -- The Four Lads
[from the themed set "four by the lads"]
[1954] You know the "Dilly, Dilly" song ("Lavender Blue") but did you know about this "Gilly, Gilly" song? Al Manning and Dick Hoffman take the credit for it. And yes, it did become a hit, peaking at #18. Everybody sing along! Oh, one more thing. Listen carefully to the beginning four lines of the song: what big hit from the early 60s (by a female vocalist) had a tune that was very similar to this one? Girl On A Swing -- Gerry and the Pacemakers
[from the themed set "three different songs whose choruses have the same tune"]
[1966] This recording, which peaked at #28, was the final chart hit for this British-invasion group. Girls Ride Horses Too -- Judy Rodman
[from the themed set "country girls rule!"]
[1987] Judy, born in Riverside, California, co-wrote Leann Rimes's first #1 country hit entitled "One Way Ticket (Because I Can)." Prior to that she had a successful career as country artist with records including this one, which reached #5. These days she remains active as a singer, songwriter, producer and vocal instructor in Nashville. Glendora -- Perry Como
[from the themed set "four 1956 sides (two singles) by the "singin' barber""]
[1956] This was the "B" side of RCA Victor 6554 and it reached #8 on the pop chart. It's probably the most successful hit tune ever written about a department store mannequin. Glow-Worm, The -- The Mills Brothers
[from the themed set "it's all the same insect to me"]
[1952] "The Glow-Worm" is a very popular song, with music written by Paul Lincke, the original German lyrics by Heinz Bolten-Backers, and English lyrics by Johnny Mercer. It was originally published in 1902 and its original German title was "Glühwürmchen." How many of you rmember the "I Love Lucy" episode entitled "The Saxophone"? This was the only song that Mrs. Ricardo knew how to play on that instrument! Go Away -- Tracey Dey
[1964] This was the "B" side of Tracey's biggest hit, which was "Gonna Get Along Without You Now." In my opinion this could easily have been an "A" side. Golly -- The Four Lads
[1956] Someone put English lyrics to "El Barkio" (which was actually "Il Bacio") and the Four Lads sang it. It's appropriate that the "Golly" singers were also the "Gilly Gilly" singers! Gone With The Wind -- The Shepherd Sisters
[from the themed set "everyone knows it's windy (or wendy)"]
[1954] This recording by the "Alone" girls -- Martha, Gayle, Judy and Mary Lou -- who were indeed sisters came three years before that very well-known hit. The instrumental portion of this sounds like some other song and I can't put my finger on it. Anybody? Good Girls Don't -- The Knack
[from the themed set "in memory of doug fieger"]
[1979] This was the group's catchy follow-up to "My Sharona" and it barely missed the top ten, peaking at #11 on the Billboard Hot 100. Goodness Gracious Me -- Peter Sellers and Sophia Loren
[from the themed set "they sing!"]
[1961] This was a top ten record in the United Kingdom. It features Sellers acting the role of an Indian doctor and Loren of his wealthy Italian patient. Guess what. They fall in love! The Beatles' legendary producer George Martin himself produced this recording. Martin envisioned the song as a recording to be incorporated in the soundtrack of the film "The Millionairess" which was being filmed at that time and which starred Sellers and Loren. However it didn't make the cut. Nevertheless it's quite enjoyable. Got A Match? -- The Daddy-O's
[1958] Billy Mure produced this recording. He also produced "Black And White Thunderbird" by the Delicates. Grandad -- Clive Dunn
[1970] Clive, who is now 90, is a retired British actor, singer and entertainer who was well-known for portraying Lance-Corporal Jack Jones in the BBC situation comedy "Dad's Army" and Sam Cobbett in the Yorkshire Television situation comedy "My Old Man."
Clive celebrated his 51st birthday in 1971 by being #1 on the British charts with this wonderful recording, in which he's accompanied by a children's chorus, which had been released late in 1970.
This hit resulted in him starring in a slapstick children's TV series "Grandad," from 1979 to 1984; he played the caretaker at a village hall. Great Renaldo and The Moth, The -- Woody Allen
[from the themed set ""the moose" has company"]
[1964] This is actually two routines. But the second is only a few seconds long. He was and still is a comedy genius. Gypsy Rose And I Don't Give A Curse -- Leroy Pullins
[196?] Yes good ol' Kris wrote it and nutty Leroy sings it. Gypsy, The -- The Ink Spots
[from the themed set "but seer-iously"]
[1946] This was the biggest hit ever (it spent 13 weeks at #1!) for one of the most popular vocal groups of the 40s. The personnel on this recording are lead tenor Bill Kenny, bass Herb Kenny (Bill's brother), Charles Fuqua and Ivory "Deek" Watson.
Almost all of the Ink Spots biggest hits begin with the same four-chord guitar riff that you hear at the outset of this recording.
Incidentally this song was British, written by bandleader Billy Reid. Half Heaven - Half Heartache -- Gene Pitney
[from the themed set "aaron schroeder wrote ..."]
[1962] Aaron Schroeder was a very successful songwriter, music publisher, record company owner and producer. He wrote more than 1500 songs, almost all with collaborators, and many became hits.
He passed away on December 2 at the age of 83.
In addition to the artists represented in the six selections here, Aaron wrote for dozens of others including Roy Orbison, Rosemary Clooney, the Beatles, Sammy Davis Jr., Dodie Stevens, Nat "King" Cole and Frank Sinatra.
Aaron founded Musicor Records and was probably best known for his association with their super successful artist, Gene Pitney, producing several of his hits.
And we open this themed set with one of those hits, which got to #12 on the chart.
Aaron wrote this one with Wally Gold and George Goehring. Hanky Panky -- Tracey Dey
[from the themed set ""happy tappy" songs"]
[1965] You were expecting maybe Tommy James?
Tracey recorded this very different "Hanky Panky" and we discussed and played it during out interview show. Hanukkah In Santa Monica -- Tom Lehrer
[from the themed set "tomfoolery"]
[2000] Please see the blurb for "The Hunting Song" for detailed information about Tom.
Many of you have been yearning to hear another song about Hanukkah other than the one by Adam Sandler, right? Well now you've got your wish. This is one of the new songs that Tom wrote and recorded for a box set called "The Remains Of Tom Lehrer." Have a happy time! Happy Birthday, America -- Paul Evans
[1976] Paul wrote this song in celebration of the Bicentennial. In the last verse he sang "let us toast to your 200 years of life." To keep it current, Paul went in and substituted a new line for that one, and this sample contains that updated portion of the song. This is a wonderful patriotic song that people of all political views can applaud. Happy Puppy, The -- Bent Fabric
[from the themed set "rainin' cats and dogs"]
[1963] Mr. Fabric encores with a catchy tune that is similar to "Alley Cat" but for whatever the reason didn't scamper up the chart, bubbling under at a peak of #102. Still I like it as much as his big hit. Happy Summer Days -- Ronnie Dove
[from the themed set "more happy summer songs"]
[1966] The Jamies' "Summertime, Summertime" by the Jamies is getting loads of listens and I figured now is a good time to give it some company. Here's our more happy summer songs for your listening pleasure.
This was one of Ronnie's rare uptempo hits. He confessed during our interview show that he recorded this Wes Farrell tune in the dead of winter! Happy Times -- Clay Cole
[from the themed set "a clay double play"]
[196?] If you're looking for a catchy song that conjures up the best memories of the 60s, try this one on for size! Heebie Jeebies -- Little Richard
[from the themed set "three lesser-known goodies by mr. penniman"]
[1956] One of Richard's best, in my opinion, and almost totally ignored by radio and the public. Was it because listening to it gave people the heebie jeebies? Hello Again -- Herb Oscar Anderson
[from the themed set "three by new york city's legendary "morning mayor""]
[1959] I had the honor of doing a one-hour interview show with this beloved broadcasting giant who did morning drive on New York City super-powerful 77-WABC from 1960 through 1968 and made millions of listeners happy on a daily basis. Please check out my Radio Page for that show and additional information about the man who also answered to the initials HOA.
Herb always opened each of his morning shows by singing this song. This recording was initially available on Columbia and subsequently -- as part of a special promotion -- on the Royal Crown label. Hello D.J. -- Don Bowman
[197?] Don Bowman, who became semi-famous with his country hit "Chit Akins, Make Me A Star," was the original host of the syndicated radio show "American Country Countdown." I first heard this recording, "Hello D.J.," on Dr. Demento's show. When I became a country deejay on WTTM in Trenton, NJ in the 80s, many listeners requested it and I played it often. I had two versions of the song, the unbleeped version and the bleeped one. Fortunately I never messed up and always played the bleeped one, an edited version of which I present here for your enjoyment. Hello Melvin (This Is Mama) -- Sandra Gould
[1963] Leave it to the wonderful Sandra Gould to come up with a parody of "Hello Mudduh, Hello Fadduh" which, to my way of thinking, is at least equally good. Sandra was an excellent character actress who guest starred in the 50s and 60s as various characters in shows including "I Love Lucy," "December Bride," "The Flintstones," "I Dream of Jeannie" and "Mister Ed." But she is probably best-known for playing the nosy neighbor Gladys Kravitz on the ABC sitcom "Bewitched." She died in 1999 at the age of 83. This recording is a fabulous part of Sandra's legacy. Note: though she sings "Mother," the parenthesized title on the Warner Brothers label is "This Is Mama." Hello Mudduh, Hello Fadduh! [1963] -- Allan Sherman
[from the themed set "three letters from camp"]
[1963] This was Allan's original hit version. It peaked at #2 on the Billboard Hot 100. Hello Mudduh, Hello Fadduh! [1964] -- Allan Sherman
[from the themed set "three letters from camp"]
[1964] Allan recorded this sequel on the Johnny Carson "Tonight Show" on May 27, 1964. It peaked at #59. Hello Mudduh, Hello Fadduh! [2010] -- Ed Rambeau
[from the themed set "three letters from camp"]
[2010] The artist formerly known as "Eddie Rambeau" has written and recorded his original version of the Allan Sherman classic, doing his part in an attempt to keep Camp Granada alive and well! Hello, Dolly! -- Louis Armstrong
[from the themed set "hello, lawyer!"]
[1964] The billing on the single says "Louis Armstrong and the All Stars" but most consider it primarily as a Louis Armstrong solo record. It surely was one of the most unlikely records to do what it did, namely end the Beatles 14-week streak at #1 during their initial invasion. This was, of course, the title song of Jerry Herman's blockbuster show which also became a blockbuster motion picture.
But it wasn't all a bed of roses. Mack David, the composer of "Sunflower," the other entry in this themed set, sued Jerry Herman for copyright infringement because the first four bars of Jerry's tune were the same as those in the refrain of Mack's song. Jerry claims in his memoris that he had never heard "Sunflower" before this and that wanted a chance to defend himself in court. However, for the sake of those involved in the show and the potential film -- which he felt might have to be delayed if it went to court -- he reluctantly decided to resolve the matter out of court with a payment (reportedly substantial) to Mack. Had it gone to trial, would the court have decided that this was, in fact, copyright infringement? It's hard to say. The most famous portion of "Hello, Dolly!" definitely does duplicate that corresponding portion of "Sunflower," but it does so very briefly. To my ears, the songs are not anywhere near as similar as "My Sweet Lord" was to "He's So Fine." You be the judge. Henny Penny -- Joanie Sommers
[from the themed set ""happy tappy" songs"]
[1963] We've all heard the expression "the sky is falling." Supposedly it's based on an old fable about a chicken who believes that is happening. The phrase passed into the English language as a common idiom indicating a belief that disaster is imminent. Well, when this record by the "Johnny Get Angry" girl came out, the sky did not fall and this record did not sell. Yet I've always liked it and am pleased to include it as part of this rather strange themed set. Her Moustache -- The Dellwoods
[1965] This group also did "She's Got A Nose Job." Here In My Heart -- Al Martino
[from the themed set "three favorites by a beloved singer-entertainer"]
[1952] The music world was shocked and saddened to hear of the unexpected passing of Al Martino on October 12, apparently from a heart attack. It was just about two and a half months ago, on July 24, that I recorded our interview show.
"I Love You Because" has been one of the most popular records on this Page for a long time. And now three other great ones, from three different decades, shall join it here; they surely show the man's versatility.
Because we played and discussed all of these during the radio show, I'll keep the descriptions here relatively brief and suggest that you listen to that show, which is on my Radio Page.
We lead off with Al's first record, which hit #1 in the nation. This is the "big band" sound of Al Martino at his very best. Here, There, Everywhere -- Clay Cole
[from the themed set "a clay double play"]
[1961] Clay performs this song in the movie "Twist Around The Clock." You can copy the following URL into your browser to watch the video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gf4BQIBK3iA. I wonder if Lennon and McCartney subconsciously were inspired to write "Here, There AND Everywhere" after hearing Clay singing THIS song. Hey, Joe -- Carl Smith
[from the themed set "remembering a country music great"]
[1953] This recording of a song written by Boudleaux and Felice Bryant became Carl's fourth #1 country hit and, like "Mother Nature" above, spent eight weeks atop that chart. Hey, Mr. Banjo -- The Sunnysiders
[from the themed set "more "banjo" tunes"]
[1955] They were a vocal-instrumental group consisting of banjo player Freddy Morgan, Jad Paul, and Norman Milken and his wife Margie Rayburn. Two years after this release, Margie climbed to #9 with her solo recording called "I'm Available."
This recording has much of the same exuberance as Teresa Brewer's "The Banjo's Back In Town," which is not included in this themed set because, well, that one has been on the Page for many weeks. (Bet you forgot because I did!) That's the reason I'm calling this themed set "MORE 'banjo' tunes."
The Sunnysiders reached #12 with this one. Sadly Freddy Morgan and Margie Rayburn have passed away. Hi Ho Trailus Boot Whip -- Anita O'Day
[1947] I don't have a clue as to the meaning of the title. Can anyone help? But I can tell you that this is a fine record by one of the most-respected pop and jazz singers in the business. She made her mark in the late 30s and early 40s, doing several recordings with Gene Krupa and Stan Kenton. She overcame many personal difficulties to continue singing into the 80s. She passed away in 2006 at the age of 87. Hide & Go Seek, Part I -- Bunker Hill
[from the themed set "hills and valleys"]
[1962] Bunker's record is not quite as poignant as Dan's! They say imitation is the sincerist form of flattery. So do you think Little Richard would be impressed or would say "Bunker, shut up!"? High Blood Pressure -- Huey Smith and the Clowns
[1958] When I bought the 45 "Don't You Just Know It" by Huey Smith and the Clowns I decided to listen to the flipside. And I truly flipped over the flip! "High Blood Pressure" has been recorded by many other artists, including Ronnie Hawkins, Maurice Williams and Dr. John. This is the original and what a great recording it is! Hit Record -- Brook Benton
[1961] How do you make a hit record? You do what Brook tells you to do here! Actually THIS hit record was far from his biggest one, peaking at #45. Still it's one of his most enjoyable singles. Hocus Pocus -- Larry Williams
[from the themed set ""happy tappy" songs"]
[195?] You were expecting maybe an instrumental by the 70s rock band Focus? Well, not this time though -- in the future -- who knows what will be on this page?
This particular brand of magic is provided by the man who hit big with "Short Fat Fannie" and "Bony Moronie" and, sadly, eventually took his own life. Though never a hit, this is -- in my opinion -- one of Larry's finest recordings. Hokey Pokey -- Harry Chapin
[from the themed set "look who's doing the hokey pokey!"]
[197?] I know that many of you are thinking "Huh?"!!! But actually Harry doing this record makes a lot of sense. It's actually not the "Hokey Pokey" song per se. Harry is singing about that song and the dance and sampling portions of the original song, closing off this solid set of four deliciously-different treatments the song and dance that is two years shy of its 50th birthday. Hokey Pokey -- Little Richard
[from the themed set "look who's doing the hokey pokey!"]
[195?] Good golly Miss Molly! Who woulda thunk it? Hokey Pokey -- Ray Anthony
[from the themed set "look who's doing the hokey pokey!"]
[1952] This is the first time that I've ever removed a recording from an existing themed set and placed it in a brand new themed set. This record was originally part of "'happy tappy' songs."
Some of these records may have had "The" on the label as part of their titles. But using Record Page license, I've chosen to list all of them here as simply "Hokey Pokey."
This is the version that everyone was familiar with and, of course, is still the best-known version. It was actually the "B" side of "The Bunny Hop," which got to #13 on the chart; however it was arguably just as popular as that one. The vocalists on this record are Jo Ann Greer and The Skyliners. (No, not THOSE Skyliners!) Hokey Pokey -- The Champs
[from the themed set "look who's doing the hokey pokey!"]
[195?] The "Tequila" guys were much better-known for their instrumental hits. But the vocal on this one is pretty solid. Maybe they should have done more records like this. Holiday Hootenanny -- Paul and Paula
[from the themed set "it's hootenanny time!"]
[1962] Who cares if it's out of season? This one was too good to pass up! Honey-Babe -- Art Mooney
[from the themed set "just keep marching"]
[1955] What with Carl Smith's "Ten Thousand Drums" and the three versions of "The Yellow Rose Of Texas" I find myself in a marching mood right now.
This record and the Russ Morgan record below are two of my all-time favorites. In fact they were two of the very first records that I ever bought.
This one is an adapation of a traditional Army marching chant and was featured in the movie "Battle Cry." Honey-Earthers, The -- Stan Freberg
[1955] A rare Freberg recording. Honeymooners Rap -- Joe Piscopo and Eddie Murphy
[1985] Joe Piscopo is Ralph Kramden. Eddie Murphy is Ed Norton. That's all you need to know. Honeymooners Rap 2 -- Joe Piscopo and Eddie Murphy
[1985] Joe Piscopo is Ralph Kramden. Eddie Murphy is Ed Norton. Added by request. Hong Kong -- The Quinns
[1957] On the other hand, maybe it's psuedo-Chinese. For information about this group,
please check out http://home.att.net/~marvart/Quinns/quinns.html. Hooka Tooka -- Chubby Checker
[from the themed set ""happy tappy" songs"]
[1963] This was the B side of Chubby's #12 hit "Loddy Lo" and it did almost as well, peaked at #17. It doesn't make any sense at all, which of course was the biggest part of its charm. Hootenanny -- The Glencoves
[from the themed set "it's hootenanny time!"]
[1963] What a happy tune! I spun this one like crazy during my first deejay job ever, a summer gig at radio station WICY in Malone, NY. Hootenanny Granny -- Jim Lowe
[from the themed set "it's hootenanny time!"]
[1962] The popular radio personality and recording artist, whose big claim to fame was the huge hit entitled "The Green Door," mentions the titles of several popular folk songs of the day on this single. Hootenanny Italian Style -- Lou Monte
[from the themed set "it's hootenanny time!"]
[1963] This ingratiating recording artist whose "Lazy Mary" was added a few days ago encores with this Italian spin on the hootenanny craze. Hootenanny On Mars -- Randy Starr and the Merry Martians
[from the themed set "it's hootenanny time!"]
[1964] Recording star Randy was also denist Dr. Warren Nadel. My interview show with him is on my Radio Page. His biggest hit as a solo artist was "After School" but he had an even bigger hit as half of the duo called the Islanders: that was the instrumental "Enchanted Sea." We find out in this record that Martians sound a lot like chipmunks! Hoppy, Gene And Me -- Roy Rogers
[1974] Born Leonard Slye in Cincinnati, OH, Roy was an original member of the legendary western group The Sons Of The Pioneers. He starred in close to 100 movie Westerns and then starred in a popular radio and TV series with his wife Dale Evans: they rode many happy trails together. Hot Canary, The -- Florian Zabach
[1951] Florian was an American violin virtuoso who appeared with major symphony orchestras as soloist and conductor at concert halls in the United States and in London, Vienna, Genoa, Venice, and Australia. He was also a TV personality hosting the nationally-sydicated "Florian Zabach Show" in the mid 50s.
Ripley's "Believe It or Not" timed his violin performance of "The Flight of the Bumblebee" and wrote, "he plays 12.8 notes per second ... faster than any known violinist in history."
This legendary hit was his most successful as a recording artist, peaking at #13 and selling over a million copies.
Florian, whose last name sometimes appears as ZaBach, passed away in 2006 at the age of 87. Hot Diggity -- Perry Como
[from the themed set "four 1956 sides (two singles) by the "singin' barber""]
[1956] The "A" side of RCA Victor 6427, the melody of this tune was based on Chabrier's "Espana Rhapsody": the lyrics were written by Al Hoffman and Dick Manning, who also wrote the Four Lads' "Gilly Gilly Ossenfeffer..." song that's also on this page. It got to #2 on the pop chart and was a popular sing-along tune back then. Listen carefully and you'll hear Perry actually sing "hot ziggity" at one point; they decided to leave that in the record just so I could make this inane comment about it! Hot Stuff -- Donna Summer
[from the themed set "late-70s disco"]
[1979] Born LaDonna Andrea Gaines, Ms. Summer is regarded by most as "The Queen Of Disco." Though it hit #1 on the Billboard Hot 100, surprisingly it doesn't receive as much play these days as some of her other recordings, particularly "Last Dance." Nevertheless this is my personal favorite Donna Summer recording. Hotta Chocolotta -- The DeJohn Sisters
[from the themed set "delightful dejohns!"]
[1956] This wonderful ditty became a regional hit in several places. If you tell me that it's delectable, I'll drink a lotta hotta chocolatta to that! House I Live In, The -- Frank Sinatra
[1945] This became a patriotic anthem in America during World War II. The lyrics describe the wonderful things about the United States, with images of the era like the grocer, the butcher, and the churchyard. The "house" is actually a metaphor for the country.
The song was written in 1943 with lyrics by Abel Meeropol and music by Earl Robinson. Meeropol, who wrote it under the pen name Lewis Allan, had very liberal views and mixed feelings about America. He loved the constitutional rights and freedoms that America was based on but hated the way people of other races, religions, and political views were often treated. His lyrics do not reflect the way he thought America was but what it had the potential to be. With the country under attack, he wanted to express why it was worth fighting for.
Frank loved this song and performed it countless times over the years and even re-recorded it as part of his "Duets" album. How Bizarre -- OMC
[1996] OMC, or Otara Millionaires Club, was a music duo from Otara, Auckland, New Zealand best known for this smash hit. The full name of the band is a tongue-in-cheek reference to Otara's status as one of the poorest suburbs of Auckland.
Pauly Fuemana was the frontman and the music was created by him and Alan Jansson, who co-wrote all of the tracks and produced the duo's albums.
"How Bizarre" became a smash hit, hitting #4 on the Billboard Hot 100 (though never a single), #1 in Australia and #5 in England.
Sina Siapaia, who used the stage name of "Zina", was the female backing vocalist on the record.
Sadly Pauly passed away on January 31, 2010 after a short illness. He was only 40. How D'ye Do And Shake Hands -- Danny Kaye, Jimmy Durante, Groucho Marx and Jane Wyman
[from the themed set "two goodies by four legends"]
[1951] This was the flipside of "Blackstrap Molasses." Friendly! Hully Gully -- The Beach Boys
[from the themed set ""happy tappy" songs"]
[1965] The was from the album "Beach Boys Party," which also contained "Barbara Ann." It's contains the same kind of fun as that latter track. Hummingbird -- Les Paul and Mary Ford
[from the themed set "in memory of the amazing les paul"]
[1955] This recording peaked at #7 and was the final top ten hit for the duo. Hunting Song, The -- Tom Lehrer
[from the themed set "tomfoolery"]
[1953] Thomas Andrew Lehrer has had an amazing career as a mathematics professor and as a singer-songwriter-pianist specializing in satire. He is best-known for his recordings from the 50s and the 60s. He earned his BA in mathematics (magna cum laude) from Harvard University in 1947 at the age of 18. He received his MA the following year and was inducted into Phi Beta Kappa. He has taught classes at MIT, Harvard, and Wellesley.
This recording was from his first album called "Songs By Tom Lehrer" that was originally released on his own label, Lehrer records.
Note: "The Elements" has been on this Page from the very beginning and has been very popular. This themed set with five of Lehrer's recordings is in response to numerous requests. Two songs which were requested but which I have chosen not to put up are "National Brotherhood Week" and "The Vatican Rag" because of concerns that they might make some people unhappy: those two can be sampled and read about elsewhere. Also, a musical revue called "Tomfoolery," consiting of other people performing Tom's songs, was presented by many touring groups throughout the country: thus the title of this themed set. I Blew It -- The Vacant Lot
[1967] Thank you, Bob Shannon (WCBS-FM NYC deejay) for mentioning this record on Mike Riccio's "Oldies Music Board" -- originally the "Behind The Hits" board hosted by YOU and, because of your mention, inspiring me to add it here. This, to my way of thinking, is one of those "should've, would've, could've been a contenduh" platters! I first heard it years ago and only knew the song title and the tune and not the name of the group who recorded it. Recently one of my contacts told me who it was and provided me with a copy. It came out on Roulette in 1967 and, for whatever reason, this catchy record simply didn't fly. But I'm happy to include it here. By the way, please check out Mike's board, it's really great: the address is http://www.musicradio77.com/bobboard/wwwboard/bobboard1.html. I Can Love You Better -- The Dixie Chicks
[from the themed set "dixie girls"]
[1997] The first hit single by this immensely popular and often controversial trio. I Can't Sit Down -- Marie and Rex
[from the themed set "well in that case, just stand up!"]
[1959] Marie Knight and Rex Garvin did this R&B gem that deserved to be as successful as the other two "sit down" records below. However it only reached #94 on the pop chart. Footnote: Marie died at a Harlem, New York, nursing home of complications from pneumonia on August 30, 2009. She was 84. I Can't Stay Mad At You -- Skeeter Davis
[1963] The Bonnie Sisters' 1956 hit "Cry Baby," which for weeks has been one of the most popular records on this Page, goes "Shoo-Bee-Doo-Bee" at the beginning and so does this one by the late great country star Skeeter Davis. The difference is that the Bonnies go "Shoo-Bee-Doo-Bee-Wah-Doo-Wop" and Skeeter goes "Shoo-Bee-Doo-Bee-Doo-Bop" and does it slower. Nevertheless it wouldn't surprise me if the Bonnies' recording influenced this one.
Skeeter's recording of this Gerry Goffin-Carole King composition was not really a country record by any stretch of the imagination: however it got to #14 on the country chart! It did better on the pop chart, peaking at #7.
There's also a bit of a "Breakin' Up Is Hard To Do" influence here, don't you think? I Dig This Station -- Gary U.S. Bonds
[from the themed set "radio waves"]
[1962] I dig this record by Gary even though we did not include it on our interview show. I Do The Rock -- Tim Curry
[1979] This British actor and vocalist played the role of Dr. Frank N. Furter in the cult film "The Rocky Horror Picture Show" and also appeared in other films including "Annie" and "Blue Money."
Chart buffs may appreciate the fact that this is the only "1-2-3-4" song in the rock era, meaning that the title is exactly four words with the first word containing exactly one letter, the second containing exactly two, the third containing exactly three and the fourth containing exactly four. I Fell In Love -- Carlene Carter
[from the themed set "country girls rule!"]
[1990] This is the first of six fabulous recordings by female country artists that fall in the range from 1975 through 1990. This one actually came out later than the others but it's a real kicker and I thought it would be an excellent way to start this "show." It peaked at #3 on the country chart.
Carlene is the daughter of Carl Smith and June Carter Cash. I Forgot More Than You'll Ever Know -- The Davis Sisters
[1953] Usually having a #1 hit is something for all concerned to rejoice about. But the circumstances related to this recording are one of the saddest chapters in the annals of country music.
The Davis Sisters were Mary Francis ("Skeeter Davis") Penick and Betty Jack Davis. They were close friends who had met in high school. They were not related. After appearing on radio shows in Cincinnati and Detroit, they were signed to RCA Victor Records.
In the summer of 1953 they recorded this mournful and heartbreaking song. RCA had great hopes for these two rising stars and felt there was something truly special about the record.
Within days of its release, tragedy struck. The girls were in a horrific automobile accident. Betty Jack died instantly. Skeeter was seriously injured but survived and eventually had her own successful solo career which included her big crossover hit "The End Of The World." She has stated that she thought of Betty Jack while recording it.
The Davis Sisters story did not end with that crash. This recording soared to #1 on the country chart, remaining there for eight straight weeks. It was on the chart for half a year.
Every time I listen to this poignant record I wonder what might have been. I Got Burned -- Ral Donner
[from the themed set "elvis sound-alikes and wannabees"]
[1963] Ral is considered by many to be the best-known of the Elvis sound-alike artists. He first came to prominence singing in Elvis style "Girl Of My Best Friend" (one that Elvis did record) and "You Don't Know What You've Got" (one that he didn't): those reached #19 and #4 respectively. After leaving Gone records after having six chart hits including the above two, he signed with Reprise and released this dead-on imitation of the King. I thought it was fabulous. Amazingly the best it could do was to "Bubble Under the Billboard Hot 100" at #124. Still I love it!
Ral died in 1984 at the age of 41. I Got Stung -- Elvis Presley
[from the themed set "aaron schroeder wrote ..."]
[1958] Aaron co-wrote this one with David Hill.
He reportedly wrote 17 songs for Elvis, four of which made #1. Those chart-toppers were "It's Now Or Never" (which is on this Page and in the Top 100), " A Big Hunk O' Love," "Stuck On You" and "Good Luck Charm."
This one, the flip side of "One Night," got to #8 on the chart.
To my way of thinking it's one of the King's best uptempto recordings and nowadays hardly gets any attention at all.
I think this is a great way to conclude this Aaron Schroeder set. He was surely one of pop music's major players.
I Hates Rabbits -- Jerry Neal
[1958] Jerry was a co-writer of Eddie Cochran's "Summertime Blues" and reportedly it was Eddie playing guitar on this Dot Records release. Jerry passed away in the late 90s. My understanding is that Jerry's real name was Jerry Capehart. If that's the case then it's interesting that pressings of "Summertime Blues" list its writers as Capehart and Neal and Cochran. I guess that meant that Capehart/Neal got 2/3 of the (limited) royalties. Years later C.W. McCall, AKA Bill Frees, would credit both McCall and Frees as co-writers of some of HIS songs. I Hear You Knocking -- Gale Storm
[from the themed set "the two biggest hits by our beloved "margie""]
[1955] She was born Josephine Cottle but everyone knew her as Gale Storm. She passed away on June 27 after having a wonderful career that included recordings, TV, radio and motion pictures: in fact she has four stars on the Hollywood Walk Of Fame, one for each category. She starred in two immensely popular TV series: "My Little Margie" and "The Gale Storm Show" (AKA "Oh Susanna"). She recorded for Dot and placed 12 singles on the national charts. This was her first and biggest hit, a cover of Smiley Lewis's recording of a Dave Bartholomew tune: Smiley's record peaked at #2 on the R&B chart and this this record peaked at #2 on the pop chart. I Just Don't Understand -- Ann-Margret
[from the themed set "a-m: feisty and tender"]
[1961] This Swedish-American actress and singer, born Ann-Margret Olsson, charted three times in 1961 and 1962.
She displays a bit of feistiness on this recording which was her first and biggest hit, peaking at #17. The backup singers are the Jordanaires. I Love A Rodeo -- Roger Miller
[from the themed set "miller time"]
[196?] This is my favorite rodeo song. I must admit I haven't heard all that many and one of them I absolutely cannot play on the air! (But this one is rated G.) I Love Mickey -- Teresa Brewer with Mickey Mantle
[from the themed set "a trio by tessie"]
[1956] An irresistible tune featuring one of the greatest Yankees ever. I Love Onions -- Susan Christie
[1966] Just a goofy little song. Will it make you laugh? Will it make you cry? I Love Paris -- Darlene Edwards
[1957] This lady had an amazing versatility. Her version of this Cole Porter classic is unlike any you've ever heard.
For more information about this amazing vocalist, please see "Stayin' Alive." I Love The Nightlife (Disco 'Round) -- Alicia Bridges
[from the themed set "late-70s disco"]
[1978] Alicia, born in Lawndale, North Carolina, may be considered by many to be a one-hit wonder. But what a powerful hit this was! Peaking at #5, it spend an incredible (for that time) 31 weeks in the Billboard Hot 100 and 19 of those weeks in the top forty.
Though she is best-known as a disco singer because of this recording (she co-wrote the song) Alicia was primarily a singer of rock, blues and love songs. The original intent was for this to be an R&B song. But when Bill Lowery heard it, he envisioned it as a disco song. The rest is history.
I Love You -- Martina McBride
[from the themed set "i love you, i love you, i love you"]
[1999] This recording, featured in the movie "Runaway Bride" starring Julia Roberts and Richard Gere, was #1 on the Billboard country chart for five weeks and peaked at #24 on their Hot 100. It was from Martina's RCA album "Emotion" and surprisingly to me was never released as a single. I Love You -- People
[from the themed set "i love you, i love you, i love you"]
[1968] This recording has a rather long unique opening and I've decided to include all of that in this sample because obviously a lot of people (radio stations and record buyers) liked it! About a minute and seven seconds into it you hear the start of the vocal with the title words. This record made it to #14 on the Hot 100. I Love You -- The Volumes
[from the themed set "i love you, i love you, i love you"]
[1962] Jim Croce sang "I'll Have To Say I Love You In A Song." On the pop chart exactly five different recording acts in the rock era made the top 40 on the Billboard Hot 100 pop chart by saying simply "I Love You" in a song TITLE. This themed set includes three of them and this one, a doowop classic, was the first chronologically, peaking at #22. Original copies of the single have the group listed as "Volume's" but most references on the web show them as "Volumes" and I've chosen to list them that way. I Love You Because -- Al Martino
[1963] Country artist Leon Payne, who was blind since early childhood, wrote and recorded this touching love song in late 1949. His version was #1 while a version by Ernest Tubb was #2. I may post both of those in the future. Meanwhile listen to Al's fabulous pop version, which was a #3 hit from him in 1963 and a major comeback record. Al's career got another major boost in 1972 when he potrayed singer Johnny Fontane in the Oscar-winning Best Picture "The Godfather." I Love Your Pizza -- Homer and Jethro
[195?] After being a sleeping giant for a long time, Dick Biondi made an astounding jump on our record chart which is current as I type this blurb: he leaped from #188 to #3 in a single bound with his "Pizza Song." Superman would be proud!
Its incredible (if sudden and surprising) success tells me that all of a sudden you seem to be in the mood for PIZZA, right? And what's better than one pizza record? You got it. TWO pizza records!
This one preceeded Dick's record by several years. I am not sure of the exact year. But I am sure that the two guys who sing it were nuttier than fruitcakes!
Pizza lovers, enjoy this for all it's worth! I Made A Fool Of Myself Over John Foster Dulles -- Carol Burnett
[1957] John Foster Dulles served as U.S. Secretary of State under President Dwight D. Eisenhower from 1953 to 1959. Carol's career was just beginning to take wings when she recorded this offbeat musical tribute to the man. She performed it often on the New York nightclub circuit and also on "The Tonight Show" (then hosted by Jack Paar) and Ed Sullivan's "Toast Of The Town." Though it never became a hit single, the record is treasured by her fans throughout the world. I Met Her In Church -- The Box Tops
[from the themed set "in memory of alex chilton"]
[1968] This recording, the group's fifth hit single, was the weakest of their top 40 hits in terms of its peak position (#37) and it hardly ever gets much play in comparison to their others. Nevertheless it's one of my personal favorites and a good closer for this three-record themed set dedicated to Alex. I Miss You So -- Chris Connor
[1956] Chris, who was born Mary Loutsenhizer in Kansas City, MS, first came to prominence as a jazz vocalist working with Claude Thornhill and Stan Kenton. She recorded many successful albums during her illustrious career. This was her one big pop hit. Though it peaked at #34, it spend an amazing 28 weeks on the Billboard chart.
She also recorded a well-known song called "All About Ronnie." Though it's tempting to put it up now, I've decided to use that one in a "Ronnie" themed set some time in the near future.
Sadly Chris passed away from cancer in Toms River, NJ on August 29, 2009. She was 81.
I Put A Spell On You -- Screamin' Jay Hawkins
[1957] This recording was selected as one of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame's 500 Songs that shaped rock and roll. It was also ranked #313 on the Rolling Stone magazine's list of The 500 Greatest Songs of All Time. I Said My Pajamas (And Put On My Prayers) -- Tony Martin and Fran Warren
[1950] Tony Martin and Fran Warren each had successful individual careers as serious solo singers. However this duet was anything BUT serious! It peaked at #3 on the chart. For whatever reason, most copies spell it "Pray'rs." I could never figure out why and, once again, am using "Record Page" license to list the title the way it SHOULD be listed! I Taut I Taw A Puddy Tat -- Mel Blanc
[from the themed set "blancs all, folks!"]
[1951] The legendary Mr. Blanc was the voice of Bugs Bunny, Porky Pig, Daffy Duck and so many other cartoon characters. This recording peaked at #9 on the chart. I Think I Love You -- The Partridge Family
[from the themed set "three tony romeo tunes"]
[1970] For more info about Tony, please read the blurb for "Indian Lake." David Cassidy sings lead on this one, a #1 hit. I Wanna Go Home -- Perry Como and the Fontane Sisters
[1950] Like the one below, a "home" song. Perry received primary billing on this record (in fact some copies only mention HIM) but in my view the Fontane sisters deserved equal billing. So I am using "Record Page" license in listing the title-artist credit. Why do I call Perry "Old Yeller"? Listen and find out. I Want To Be Wanted -- Brenda Lee
[from the themed set "six brenda ballad hits"]
[1960] This was Brenda's follow-up to "I'm Sorry" and became her second consecutive #1 hit. I Want To Bite Your Hand -- Gene Moss
[1964] From the Carnivorish Invasion? I Went To Your Wedding -- Patti Page
[from the themed set "patti vs. spike"]
[1952] Patti's second biggest hit, #1 for 10 straight weeks. She sure knows how to interpret a lyric. I Went To Your Wedding -- Spike Jones and his City Slickers
[from the themed set "patti vs. spike"]
[1952] Sir Frederick Gas handles the vocal chores. A bit different from Patti's rendering. I Will Survive -- Gloria Gaynor
[from the themed set "late-70s disco"]
[1979] We've surely had a wide variety of music (and sometimes talk) represented on this page but up until now we have been lacking one very popular musical genre: disco.
We lead off with an anthem of sorts: I consider this to be the "I Am Woman" of the disco era.
This artist was born Gloria Fowles in Newark, NJ and the title of this recording could also refer to the amazing continued popularity of this song. For me the line most responsible for making this song a smash, other than the title portion, was "I should have changed that stupid lock, I should have made you leave your key!"
This record deservedly hit #1 on the Billboard Hot 100. I Wish I Was A Car -- Peter Lind Hayes and Mary Healy
[from the themed set "two crazy songs by this genial duo"]
[1953] This one is silly in a different way and we hear a bit more of Peter. I Wish I Was Eighteen Again -- George Burns
[from the themed set "nostalgia at its best"]
[1980] This legendary entertainer became the oldest artist to chart on the Hot 100 when he did so with this recording of Sonny Throckmorton's touching tune. It began its 10-week chart run the day before George's 84th birthday, peaking at #49. It became a top 15 country hit as well. I.O.U. -- Jimmy Dean
[from the themed set "for mom"]
[1976] Jimmy's heartfelt tribute to his Mom. Ice Cream Song -- The Animaniacs
[19??] Simply ani-maniacal! If I Can't Have You -- Etta and Harvey
[from the themed set "remembering music legend harvey fuqua"]
[1960] This fabulous duet with the great Etta James made it to #52 on the national chart but, in my mind, deserved to go much higher. If I Had A Hammer -- Peter, Paul and Mary
[from the themed set "in memory of mary travers"]
[1962] As a Peter, Paul and Mary fan for so many years and knowing so many others who also fall into that category I feel unspeakable sadness as I write these words. How sad it is that the wonderful Mary has passed away.
I recall the first time I ever heard of PP&M. It was when I read an ad in Cash Box Magazine. It talked about this new folk and pop music trio and it said that last names were not important. It struck me as somewhat strange but apparently the folks at Warner Brothers knew exactly what they were doing. Of course it wasn't very long before their full names were revealed: Peter Yarrow, Paul Stookey and Mary Travers.
Their first hit was "Lemon Tree" and it reached #35 on the chart. This was their second hit and their first of six top ten records, peaking at #10. The song was co-written by Pete Seeger and Lee Hays of the Weavers and its original title was "The Hammer Song."
Mary is so animated on this recording and you can feel the joy. If I Were A Tishman -- Allan Sherman
[from the themed set "an allan sherman quadruple play"]
[1967] From the album "Togetherness." We skip forward a few years to Allan's final album for Warner Brothers. This is a parody of "If I Were A Rich Man," from the musical "Fiddler On The Roof." Unlike his previous albums, this one was not recorded in front of an audience. This album was roundly criticized as a whole but I think that this recording from it more than holds its own. If My Pillow Could Talk -- Connie Francis
[from the themed set "pillow talk"]
[1963] This is one of Connie hardly-ever-played-on-radio hits but in my opinion it's one of her best. If You Were A Rock And Roll Record -- Freddy Cannon
[1962] This record was not included on my interview show with Freddy, not even as a bonus track. But it's a good one and was requested by Wes Smith, my wonderful friend and loyal listener. Iko Iko -- The Dixie Cups
[from the themed set "dixie girls"]
[1965] This is a New Orleans song that describes a parade collision between two "tribes" of Mardi Gras Indians. This vocal trio hit #1 with "Chapel Of Love." I'm A Hit Again [acoustic] -- Jim Reeves
[from the themed set "gentleman jim's final recording, done a few days before his death"]
[1964] In the last week of July, 1964, Jim Reeves walked into his home basement studio, picked up his acoustic guitar and recorded this track. It turned out to be his final recording.
On July 31st, a few days later, Jim died in a plane crash and the world lost one of the greatest ballad singers that ever lived. I'm A Hit Again [overdubbed] -- Jim Reeves
[from the themed set "gentleman jim's final recording, done a few days before his death"]
[2003] A company called VoiceMasters acquired the rights to Jim Reeves recordings, including many unreleased tracks. They took Jim's final recording (presented above) and overdubbed it with additional instrumentation and a female chorus. Of special interest here is that the overdubbing was done in the same studio where Jim had originally recorded it.
Close to 46 years after his tragic passing, Jim Reeves recordings continue to sell in large quantities all over the world. I'm A Little Busybody -- Jerry Lewis
[195?] An amazing and almost totally-forgotten recording. I'm A Tiger -- Lulu
[1968] Lulu's recording of "Boy" has been incredibly popular on this Page and here's a long-overdue companion song which, like that one, came out in 1968 and was a huge hit in England but not a hit in the United States. Technically Lulu's a TIGRESS, but "tiger" is close enough for rock and roll.
Note: I've increased the length of the "Boy" sample. I'm Blue (The Gong-Gong Song) -- The Ikettes
[from the themed set "the same group but with totally different members"]
[1962] The Ikettes were a female trio created for the Ike and Tina Turner Revu. Performers on this recording, released on Arco, were lead singer Delores Johnson, Eloise Hester and "Joshie" Jo Armstead. I'm Gonna Knock On Your Door -- Eddie Hodges
[from the themed set "aaron schroeder wrote ..."]
[1961] Aaron co-wrote this song with Sid Wayne.
Among his many credits, Eddie appeared in the Broadway show "The Music Man" (he sang "Gary, Indiana") and in the Frank Sinatra film "A Hole In The Head." Like Gene's record above, this one peaked at #12, and it was Eddie's biggest hit. I'm Gonna Make You Mine -- Lou Christie
[from the themed set "three tony romeo tunes"]
[1969] For more info about Tony, please read the blurb for "Indian Lake." Lou's backup singers on this gem are Linda Scott, Ellie Greenwich and an unidentified third girl. A fantastic piece of pop from the great Lou and also his last top ten hit. Tony Romeo, by the way, produced and arranged Lou Christie's classic recording of "Beyond The Blue Horizon," which is heard in the Oscar winning Best Picture "Rainman." I'm Professor Ludwig Von Drake -- Paul Frees
[1961] Because I like it! I'm So Afraid Of Losing You -- Linda Scott
[from the themed set "a lovely linda quadruple play!"]
[1962] I played this a lot during my first job as a deejay. It was on WICY in Malone, NY in 1963. Why this record didn't become a hit has always been a mystery to me. One of her very best! I'm Sorry -- Brenda Lee
[from the themed set "six brenda ballad hits"]
[1960] Brenda became known as "Little Miss Dynamite" after recording a song called "Dynamite" in 1957. Most associate that nickname with her uptempo records. Interestingly, though, she achieved most of her biggest success with her ballad hits. I'm pleased to feature six of those in this themed set: all made the national top ten and two, including this one, reached #1. I'm The Little Space Girl's Father -- Jesse Lee Turner
[from the themed set "space girls"]
[1959] The little girl's dad has the last word as Jesse Lee encores and closes out this far out themed set. Many sequels to hit records aren't very good but I truly feel that this one is excellent. I'm Walkin' -- Larry Storch
[from the themed set "are you ready to get storched?"]
[1957] Larry, who turned 90 on January 8, 2013, is an actor and comedian best known for his comic television roles, including lots of voice-over work for cartoon shows and a legendary sitcom appearance on "Married With Children" in which he ran the "Larry Storch School Of Comedy." But he is probably most famous for playing the bumbling Corporal Randolph Agarn on the TV series "F Troop."
I first heard of Larry while a camper at Camp Idylwold (near Schroon Lake, NY) in 1957 and this came on the radio. It was his rendition of a song that was a big hit for two artists: first Fats Domino and then Ricky Nelson. In The Good Old Summertime -- The Four Preps
[from the themed set "more happy summer songs"]
[1960] This is from their album "The Four Preps On Campus," which also contained their wonderful parody recording "More Money For You And Me." I don't believe this was ever released as a single. It's their rousing, rollicking, rip-roaring rendition of the summertime standard. In The Mood -- Ernie Fields
[1959] Ernie was a very versatile man of music: a trombonist, pianist, arranger and bandleader among other things. He began his career in the late-20s and worked with big bands and small bands and developed a style of playing swing standards in a rockin' rhythm and blues fashion.
In the late 1950s he moved to Los Angeles California and joined Rendezvous Records, for whom he ran the house band. They included pianist Ernie Freeman, guitarist Rene Hall (whom Ernie had worked with in the 1930s), saxophonist Plas Johnson, and drummer Earl Palmer.
In 1959 this band had a national and international hit with a a rockin' version of Glenn Miller’s classic "In the Mood". As the leader, it was Ernie's name that was on the label.
The band, with minor changes of personnel, went on to record hit instrumentals under several different names, including B. Bumble and the Stingers, The Marketts and The Routers.
Rendezvous Records shut down in 1963 Ernie retired shortly after that.
He passed away in 1997 at the age of 92.
This is one of my personal favorite instrumentals of the rock era. I have never gotten tired of it. In The Rain -- The Dramatics
[from the themed set "a dramatic lead voice is stilled"]
[1972] This is a very "dramatic" change of pace for this very successful pop-R&B group. It peaked at #5. It's One of the most successful and most memorable rain songs of the rock era. In-Between Teen -- Linda Sampson
[from the themed set "a lovely linda quadruple play!"]
[1960] This was Linda Scott's first single. It was on Epic records. She used her real name which is Linda (Joy) Sampson. Independence Day -- Martina McBride
[1993] This award-winning song written by Gretchen Peters, was originally included as part of Martina's 1993 album "The Way That I Am." It was released as a single in 1994 and, although it only climbed as high as #12 and peakwise was not one of her biggest hits, it's pretty much become Martina's signature song as well as a country music classic. Gretchen won a CMA award for "Song Of The Year" for this compostition.
The song has powerful lyrics and a double meaning. The woman singing the song is finally gaining her "freedom" from her husband and thus it is HER "independence day"; the title also refers to the fact that the events described in the song happened on July 4th, AMERICA'S Independence Day.
This record has remained in the public consciousness, in part, because conservative talk show host Sean Hannity uses it as the primary theme song of his syndicated radio show. Indian Lake -- The Cowsills
[from the themed set "three tony romeo tunes"]
[1968] Tony Romeo is not a household name: if you asked someone to identify him, they might say he plays quarterback for the Dallas Cowboys (thinking of Tony Romo). But Tony Romeo, the songwriter, did very well from 1968 through 1970 while working as a staff writer for Wes Farrell's Pocket Full O Tunes publishing company. In each of those years he wrote a solid hit and this themed set features them chronologically. Sadly Tony, whom I had the pleasure of interviewing while working for Casey Kasem, passed away in 1995 from a heart attack at the age of 54.
To be politically correct, this song should have been entitled "Native American Lake" but that would have been difficult for the Cowsills to sing. Does anyone know where Indian Lake is supposedly located? (Not sure whether I asked Tony that question.) International Elvis Impersonators Convention, The -- various artists
[from the themed set "elvis sound-alikes and wannabees"]
[1979] This record leaves me speechless. Well, okay, ALMOST speechless. I am not sure of its origin. What I can tell you is that this original recording runs 10 minutes and 25 seconds; I've mercifully reduced it to a 2 minute 29 second sample. I believe that this appeared in a "Worst Records Of All Time" collection. You be the judge if you dare and/or care. Invisible Tears -- Ray Conniff
[from the themed set "three different songs whose choruses have the same tune"]
[1964] In the history of pop music there have been many cases involving alleged song plagiarism. They are sometimes referred to as "call the lawyers" cases though, truthfully, probably most have never actually made it to court.
Back in the 60s I was intrigued that the three records in this themed set have choruses which have (at least to my ears) the same tune. I don't believe that there was any legal action taken by anyone though I'm not sure.
I'm presenting them here in order of release.
This recording made it to #57 on the Billboard Hot 100. Many pressings bill it as by Ray Conniff and the Singers. Io Che Non Vivo -- Jody Miller
[1965] In late 1964, Jody received an invitation to represent the United States at Italy's prestigious San Remo Song Competition. The way the festival works is that the Italians invite foreign artists to Italy and write a song for them to sing in the contest. An Italian songwriter, Pino Dinnagio, loved Jody's voice and he wrote a song especially for her entitled "Io Ce Non Vivo." Jody's performance of the song earned her Second Prize at the festival and she subsequently became the FIRST artist to record it. Eventually English lyrics were written to the tune and the English title was "You Don't Have To Say You Love Me": it became a huge international and American hit for Dusty Springfield. Jody's original recording, which I am presenting here, became a big hit in Italy. As a result she wound up spending several months in Europe, recording pop albums in Italian, German and French.
To watch Jody's San Remo Song Competition performance of this song, enter this address in your browser: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eU6QSDO5U4E Island In The Sun -- Harry Belafonte
[from the themed set "gentle belafonte"]
[1957] This is the flipside of the uptempo "Cocoanut Woman" which has been up for some time. Both sides did well on the chart. Istanbul -- The Four Lads
[from the themed set "who will win the battle of istanbul?"]
[1953] After putting a quartet of songs up by the Lads I was going to wait a while to put another song up. But this was just too good to resist. This was a top ten record for them and their first big hit. Istanbul -- They Must Be Giants
[from the themed set "who will win the battle of istanbul?"]
[1990] Well if the guy says they must be, then I guess they MUST BE! Formed in 1982, this group is best known for its unconventional and experimental style of alternative music. This record is a modest example! It was featured on the "Tiny Toon Adventures" animated TV show. It Couldn't Have Been Any Better -- Johnny Duncan
[from the themed set "two country hits with sound-alike choruses"]
[1977] Johnny was a Texas-born singer who, like Tommy, had most of his hits in the 70s, including this one. The harmony vocal is by Janie Fricke who, largely as a result of her work with Johnny, forged a very successful career on her own. Sadly Johnny passed away in 2006 from a heart attack: he was 67. It Keeps Rainin' -- Fats Domino
[from the themed set "rainin' cats and dogs"]
[1961] Fats hit #23 with this pleasant but seldom-played record. It Was A Very Good Year -- Frank Sinatra
[from the themed set "nostalgia at its best"]
[1965] This record peaked in 1966 and that was indeed very good for the "Chairman of the Board." Including this one he placed five recordings in the Billboard Hot 100. It Was Great While It Lasted -- Herb Oscar Anderson
[from the themed set "three by new york city's legendary "morning mayor""]
[1959] This was the flipside of "Hello Again" and HOA made it very clear that he liked this side at least as much. It's Almost Tomorrow -- The Dream Weavers
[1956] They were a vocal trio featuring lead singer Wade Buff and two women. There were several alternations of personnel around the time of this recording and it's not known for certain what two women were actually snging on it. What is known is that it's one of the prettiest and most memorable hits of the mid-50s. It's In The Book (Pt. 1) -- Johnny Standley
[from the themed set "a fundamentally uproarious #1 satire in two parts"]
[1952] I am pleased to present samples of both sides of this #1 comedy hit which pokes gentle but devastating fun at revivalist preachers.
This side of the record is a sermon on the hallowed subject of "Little Bo Peep."
Please be seated everyone.
Let the sermon begin. It's In The Book (Pt. 2) -- Johnny Standley
[from the themed set "a fundamentally uproarious #1 satire in two parts"]
[1952] This side of the record is the sing-along portion.
Johnny is backed up by Horace Heidt and his Musical Knights.
You all know the song about Grandma's Lye Soap, right?
Good!
Everybody turn to page 222 and please join in!
Are you ready? It's Now Or Never -- Elvis Presley
[from the themed set "all the same tune"]
[1960] It's the King! I've Been Everywhere -- Hank Snow
[from the themed set "life is a list"]
[1962] The song "I've Been Everywhere" was written by Geoff Mack in 1959 and made popular by the singer Lucky Starr in 1962. It listed Australian towns. It was later adapted for North American (primarily United States) place names and by John Hore (later known as John Grenell) with New Zealand place names (1966). This version, by the legendary Hank Snow (who was Canadian by the way) hit #1 on the U.S. country chart and #68 on the U.S. pop chart. I've Been Everywhere -- Lucky Starr
[1962] The song "I've Been Everywhere" was written by Geoff Mack in 1959 and listed Australian towns. Hank Snow's #1 country version has been been on these pages for several weeks. And now, as promised, here's the original Aussie version, which came out a few months before Hank's. This guy is truly amazing! I've Got A Lovely Bunch Of Coconuts -- Freddy Martin (vocal by Merv Griffin)
[from the themed set "coconuts anybody?"]
[1949] This became Merv's signature song, even though was technically a Freddy Martin record. I've Never Seen A Straight Banana -- Billy Jones and Ernie Hare
[from the themed set "goin' bananas!"]
[192?] Billy and Ernie, known as the "Happiness Boys," were immensely popular with radio audiences in the 20s and 30s. Ivy Will Cling -- Arnold Stang and the Sunshine Kids
[1959] Lovable Arnold played the milquetoast little guy parts on dozens of sitcoms, one of many working television supporting players that never found major major stardom but always had steady work. You might know him as the voice of the cartoon character Top Cat (1961-62, NBC) or as Milton Berle's sidekick during his "Uncle Miltie" days (1953-55). He was also featured in a number of short-lived series, including Doc Corkle, the first casualty of the 1952-53 season (lasting only three episodes) and the 1955 syndicated show Molly (aka 'The Goldbergs') as the shipping clerk. He had dozens of roles, both on and off camera, over the years.
This record became a surprise hit in England. Rumor has it that Arnold and the children on this record, known as the Sunshine Kids, sang it for 10 hours straight though my personal feeling is that it was only five hours.
Arnold died in December of 2009 at the age of 91. Jaguar And Thunderbird -- Chuck Berry
[from the themed set "thunderbird songs other than you-know-what!"]
[1960] A two car song with plenty of drive. Jailhouse Rock -- Eilert Pilarm
[from the themed set "elvis vs. eilert"]
[19??] NOT the King.
I could say so much about this guy but I feel that one listen is worth a thousand words. You can Google his name for more information. Jailhouse Rock -- Elvis Presley
[from the themed set "elvis vs. eilert"]
[1957] The King. Jamaica Farewell -- Harry Belafonte
[from the themed set "gentle belafonte"]
[1957] The song was written by Lord Burgess and was part of Harry's legendary "Calypso" album. So pretty. Java Jones -- Donna Lynn
[from the themed set "two more by donna"]
[1964] Al Hirt had a top ten instrumental with "Java." Lyrics were written to it and Donna was more than glad to sing about her boyfriend with a rather unusual first name! This record Bubbled Under the Hot 100 and I feel it deserved a much better fate. Jo Jo Gunne -- Chuck Berry
[from the themed set "chuck's monkey business"]
[1958] A saga about a meddlesome monkey. Reportedly Jay Ferguson, after he left the rock group Spirit, named his new band, Jo Jo Gunne, after this recording. Johnson Rag -- The Jack Teter Trio
[1950] Jack was a piano player born in Memphis, Missouri. I love the way he sings this and the way he plays it! Joker, The -- The Steve Miller Band
[from the themed set "lyric liftin'"]
[1973] This song contains these lyrics:
"Well you're the cutest thing that I ever did see
  I really love your peaches want to shake your tree
  Lovey dovey, lovey dovey, lovey dovey all the time." (see "Lovey Dovey" above)
Joy -- Apollo 100
[from the themed set "bach, beethoven and brahms"]
[1972] The synthesizer player on this left-field hit was none other than Tom Parker. While managing Elvis, the Colonel moonlighted as ..... wait, okay, you won't buy that and you SHOULDN'T, it was a DIFFERENT Tom Parker and I don't believe he had a military rank! Okay, the real truth is that Apollo 100 was a British studio group and "Joy" is their adaptation of Johann Sebastian Bach's "Jesu, Joy of Man's Desiring," the 10th movement of the cantata "Herz und Mund und Tat und Leben" (Heart and Mouth and Deed and Life). Juanita Banana -- The Peels
[from the themed set "goin' bananas!"]
[1966] Contrary to rumors, Mrs. Miller was NOT ever considered for the title role in this recording. Jubilation T. Cornpone -- Stubby Kaye
[from the themed set "fabulous showstoppers"]
[1956] "Li'l Abner," based on the Al Capp comic strip, opened on Broadway in November of 1956 and ran for 693 performances. Among other things, the plot centers on Dogpatch, the town that is the main setting of the comic strip, which has been declared the "most unnecessary town" in the U.S. and is set to be turned into a nuclear testing site. The town is ultimately saved when a plaque is discovered declaring that its local hero and town founder, the Confederate General Jubilation T. Cornpone was, by virtue of his sheer incompetence, so instrumental in the defeat of his own army as to be a hero of the Republic. Stubby Kaye, in the role of "Marryin' Sam," sings the praises (!!!) of that military man. Juke Box Baby -- Perry Como
[from the themed set "four 1956 sides (two singles) by the "singin' barber""]
[1956] This was the "B" side of RCA Victor 6427 and it reached #10 on the pop chart. Its lyrics mentioned many of the hit songs of the day, including Perry's recent hit entitled "Tina Marie." Just Like Me -- Paul Revere and the Raiders
[from the themed set "in memory of drake levin"]
[1965] Drake Levin played lead guitar with Paul Revere and the Raiders from 1963 through 1967. He was diagnosed with cancer in 1990 and, after three separate battles with the disease, succumbed on July 4 with his wife Sandra at his side. This recording was the group's first national top 20 hit, peaking at #11. Just When I Needed You Most -- Randy VanWarmer
[1979] Randy, originally from Colorado, wrote this song when he was 18 years old. He recorded it six years later and it became a major hit, peaking at #4 on the Billboard Hot 100 and remaining on the chart for 20 weeks. It has over the years become one of the most enduring pop songs.
Sadly he died of leukemia early in 2004 at the age of 48. Juvenile Delinquent -- (The Other) Ronnie Allen
[1959] This recording, by a singer-guitarist with the same professional name as mine, has become a rockabilly classic. I love everything about the record including the driving beat, the bongos (a bit unusual for a rockabilly record) and the way he sings the title as "Juvenile DelinQUONT"! It was released on the San record label, based in Bon Aqua, Tennessee. Unlike me, this OTHER Ronnie Allen, who is presently a deejay on WDXE in Lawrenceburg, Tennessee, has performed live with many of the top rockabilly stars in the world and has had his records played on "American Bandstand." I had the pleasure of doing an interview show (a very strange one!) with this guy last year; it's on my Radio Page. His singles, if you can find them, go for 50 to 100 dollars a pop. That has been true of my "Flip Over You" single as well, but that's because many record collectors still think that I am HIM! (Several books are still listing us together.) Kentuckian Song, The -- The Hilltoppers
[1955] It's unusual when the most memorable part of a ballad lyric-wise is far and away the middle part. But that's the case with this song. Many don't know the title of this record but are familiar with the part about the possum and the raccoon. This is from the Burt Lancaster film "The Kentuckian."
The Hilltoppers were a very successful vocal quartet who got together at Western Kentucky College in Bowling Green, KY in 1952. They took their name from the school's nickname. The members were lead singer Jimmy Sacca, Din McGuire, Seymour Spiegelman and Billy Vaughn. Billy left the group the year this record came out to become the musical director of Dot Records and he forged his own very successful recording career. Kentucky Means Paradise -- The Green River Boys featuring Glen Campbell
[1962] A toetappin' winner! Kicks -- Paul Revere and the Raiders
[from the themed set "in memory of drake levin"]
[1966] This was the follow-up to "Just Like Me" and the first top ten hit for the group, peaking at #4. Like that other record, this also featured the Drake's great guitar playing. Kidnapped -- Woody Allen
[from the themed set ""the moose" has company"]
[1964] Woody's "The Moose" has been one of the most popular recordings on this page since Day One. While working at the Concord Hotel in the mid 60s, I had the pleasure of meeting him and seeing him perform that routine as well as this one and the combo-routine posted below. Only Woody could do this material so well. Kid's Last Fight, The -- Frankie Laine
[1954] Not one of Frankie's biggest hits or one of his most remembered records. But to me it's one of his very best. A touching and sad tale. Kids Say The Darndest Things -- Tammy Wynette
[1970] Art Linketter, who passed away at the age of 97, was an immensely-popular radio and TV personality best-known for the shows "House Party" and "People Are Funny." He made #42 on the pop chart in 1970 with a record called "We Love You, Call Collect." Because of the tragic circumstances relating to that single including the suicide of his youngest daughter Diane and the difficulty of creating an appropriate edited sample, I've chosen not to include it on this Page. The "B" side of it, entitled "Dear Mom And Dad," features Art and his daughter and is basically an edited version of the "A" side with inserts from Diane. Those interested can hear it by visiting http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ALwETfzXiDQ.
In 1957 Art published a best-selling book entitled "Kids Say The Darndest Things," featuring highlights from his conversations with children on "House Party." Sixteen years later Glenn Sutton and Billy Sherrill used that title for this song that they wrote for Tammy Wynette. The single made #1 on the country chart. King Is Gone, The -- Ronnie McDowell
[from the themed set "elvis sound-alikes and wannabees"]
[1977] Ronnie wrote and recorded this poignant record immediately after he and the rest of the world learned that the King had passed away. It's unusual in that Ronnie wrote it ABOUT Elvis and sings it using his "Elvis" voice. It was a huge hit, peaked at #13 on the Billboard Hot 100. Ronnie went on to have a total of 37 country hits between 1977 and 1990. Kitten On The Keys -- Dick Hyman
[1986] Dick is best-known to many 50s pop music followers as the leader of the Dick Hyman Trio who, in 1956, got to #8 on the chart with "Moritat (A Theme From 'The Three Penny Opera')." Little did anyone know that three and a half years later that song would re-emerge as "Mack The Knife," Bobby Darin's biggest hit ever.
As for Dick, his career is so much more than just his "Moritat" hit. The man, over a 50-year career, has functioned as pianist, organist, arranger, music director, and, increasingly, as composer. He's released over 100 albums recorded under his own name and many more in support of other artists. Though primarily known as a jazz pianist, he proves here that he is equally proficient doing ragtime.
Zez Confrey wrote and recorded the original version of "Kitten On The Keys" in 1921 and, maybe not surprisingly, it was inspired by a cat at his grandmother's house that he discovered prancing up and down the piano keyboard!
Dick Hyman proves he is a real cool cat with this 1986 interpretation, recorded at a live performance. You can view it by visiting http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bkKLL1ajxlY. K'nish Doctor -- Mickey Katz
[from the themed set "which doctor do your prefer?"]
[1958] A somewhat different take on the song, done by the celebrated Yiddish entertainer who was the father of stage and screen actor Joel Grey. La Cumbia De Manuela -- Neil Sedaka
[from the themed set "foreign language recordings"]
[19??] Spanish. I know virtually nothing about this one except that Neil sounds like he had a great time recording it! La Dee Dah -- Billy and Lillie
[from the themed set "50's hits that mention other 50's hits"]
[1957] A great Frank Slay/Bob Crewe production that was very popular with the kids on Bandstand and a top-ten hit nationwide. La Vie En Rose -- Edith Piaf
[1946] Miss Piaf is regarded by many as France's greatest popular singer ever. This is her signature song. "La Vie En Rose" is French for "life through rose-colored glass" or, literally, "life in pink." The melody was written by Louis Gugliemi and the lyrics by Miss Piaf herself. La-Do-Dada -- Dale Hawkins
[from the themed set "in memory of a rockabilly great"]
[1958] This was Dale's biggest single in 1958, peaking at #32. Lady Godiva -- Peter and Gordon
[from the themed set "in memory of gordon waller"]
[1966] The original Lady Godiva (1040-1080) was an Anglo-Saxon noblewoman who, according to legend, rode without clothes through the streets of Coventry, England in order to gain a remission of the oppressive taxation imposed by her husband on his tenants.
The Lady Godiva in this Peter and Gordon recording is a different person but with a similar fashion sense. It was quite a change of pace from "A World Without Love" and turned out to be the duo's second biggest hit. Lady Is A Tramp, The -- Lena Horne
[from the themed set "lena!"]
[1948] So many singers have recorded "The Lady Is A Tramp" and Lena' version, presented here, is arguably the definitive female rendering of the classic. Laugh Yourself Silly! -- various artists
[2001] Barb is the author of the immensely-popular "Oldies Music Aptitude Test," a challenging and fun-filled trivia book which is available online from all the major places including Barnes And Noble, Amazon, Borders or directly from the publisher iUniverse.com. I give it my highest recommendation and must sheeplishly admit that though I consider myself "quite good" I found that I was not quite the oldies genius that I thought I was! Everybody who loves oldies will love Barb's book.
There is an unusual story behind this unique montage of laughs from 39 of the most popular oldies recordings of all time. It originated back in 2001 when Barb had a website called "Oldies Fun" which was devoted to online oldies contests. I was proud to have been invited by Barb to join the staff and create challenging puzzles. The entire staff was, in fact, made up of Barb and myself.
Barb created a contest one week in which she invited people to send in names of oldies that contained laughter in any form. Keep in mind that laughs can be very different from one another.
She was so overwhelmed by the fantastic response that she took the laugh portions of 39 submissions and produced this unreleased montage which I proudly present here. Most of you will be able to figure out where some of the laughs come from but not all of them; that's part of the fun and challenge of listening to this. I will eventually post the correct order of laughs: for now I'll tell you that it contains laughs from the Beatles and Elvis to Napoleon XIV and John Zacherle and leave it at that. LAUGH YOURSELF SILLY! Lavender Blue -- Burl Ives
[from the themed set "the "dilly, dilly" song"]
[1949] "Lavender Blue," also called "Lavender's Blue", is an English folk song and nursery rhyme dating back to the seventeenth century and which has been recorded in various forms since the twentieth century. Some versions have as many as thirty verses. Though we're all familiar with the "diddy, diddy" portion, you may not be aware that some early versions used "diddle, diddle" instead! This version, sung by Burl, was featured in the Walt Disney movie "So Dear to My Heart" and became his first hit song. Lavender Blue -- Sammy Turner
[from the themed set "the "dilly, dilly" song"]
[1959] This version by Sammy reached #3 on the pop chart. For a detailed comment about the song, please read the blurb for the Burl Ives version. Lazy Mary -- Lou Monte
[from the themed set "for our countdown queen, dj mary roboto"]
[1958] DJ Mary, I am not suggesting to anyone that YOU are lazy! I am including it because I love Luigi's recording and I am sure that others will as well. Lazy Mary Memphis -- Tino and the Revlons
[1965] I know little about this band, other than they were reportedly based in New York and that they performed a lot in the Detroit area. This recording speaks for itself. Lazy Summer Night -- The Four Preps
[1958] The Four Preps' "In The Good Old Summertime" has been THE most popular "summer" song on this page since I added it as part of a themed set on July 23 of last year. With that in mind, Don Effenberger suggested that I add "Lazy Summer Night" by that group. He pointed out that it was from the motion picture "Andy Hardy Comes Home" starring Mickey Rooney, the last in that series.
I am happy to oblige. You can also hear this record as part of my radio interview show with Bruce Belland, the lead singer of the Four Preps. Leader Of The Pack -- The Shangri-Las
[from the themed set "in memory of ellie greenwich"]
[1964] This song was co-written by Ellie, Jeff Berry and George "Shadow" Morton. It became a #1 hit for the Shangri-Las and was the title song of the 1985 Broadway show which featured this and many of her other hit songs. Leave My Kitten Alone -- Johnny Preston
[from the themed set "rainin' cats and dogs"]
[1961] This song was first recorded by Little Willie John and subsequently recorded by the Beatles. Johnny seemed to have an enjoyable time doing his version of it. Left Right Out Of Your Heart -- Patti Page
[from the themed set "left and right"]
[1958] Patti encores with this top ten hit which many people don't remember and hardly ever gets played. Too bad because it's really good. Spike Jones never got around to doing this one! The title actually contains a parenthesized part (Hi Lee Hi Lo Hi Lup Up Up) but you didn't really expect me to include that here, did you? Forward march! Les Bicyclettes De Belsize -- Engelbert Humperdinck
[from the themed set "three different songs whose choruses have the same tune"]
[1968] The title of the song is the only thing foreign about it. It peaked at #31 for the artist once known as Arnold Dorsey. Let It Rock -- Chuck Berry
[from the themed set "chuck rocks!"]
[1960] Chuck frequently created new hits by recycling the tunes from previous ones.
"No Particular Place To Go" was the son of "School Day." And this song was the son of "Johnny B. Goode."
This was the "B" side of "Too Pooped To Pop" and only reached #64 on the chart. Still I think it's one of Chuck's great records.
Let Old Mother Nature Have Her Way -- Carl Smith
[from the themed set "remembering a country music great"]
[1951] Carl, often referred to as "Mister Country," was one of the most successful artists in that genre in the 1950s and 1960s. Between 1951 and 1978 he had a very impressive 93 hits on the country chart. He was married to June Carter (who later became June Carter Cash) and they had a daughter Carlene Carter, who became a well-known country singer in her own right.
Carl was inducted into the Country Music Hall Of Fame in 2003 and that begs the question: why did it take so long?
This recording was the first of his five #1 country hits: it was #1 on that chart for eight weeks.
Carl passed away of natural causes on January 16, 2010, two months shy of what would have been his 83rd birthday. Let The Four Winds Blow -- Roy Brown
[from the themed set "everyone knows it's windy (or wendy)"]
[1957] A great vocalist and pianist, Roy was one of the originators of the New Orleans R&B sound. What makes this record even more special is the fabulous drumming by whoever it is! (Anyone know?) Let's Do The Kangaroo -- The Majorettes
[from the themed set "kangarooney tunes"]
[1964] These girls had a regional hit in 1963 with "White Levis" and I'll probably put that one on this page shortly. After that one they did this recording which, even if nothing else, does fit into this marsupial category. They sang "it's the new sensation, all around the nation" which, as it turned out, was a bit too optimistic. Still they obviously had fun recording it and I like it. Let's Fall In Love -- Linda Scott
[from the themed set "a lovely linda quadruple play!"]
[1967] This standard has been done by so many artists in so many styles. To me Linda's is the DEFINITIVE version. Where have you gone, Linda Scott? Your fans miss you! Letter To The Beatles, A -- The Four Preps
[from the themed set ""beatles" in the title"]
[1964] If I recall correctly, Four Preps lead singer Bruce Belland told me that this was the recording that pretty much ended the Four Preps career. It did mark the end of their chart career, peaking at a disappointing #85. Still I find this recording about their moptop label-mates quite amusing. Letter, The -- The Box Tops
[from the themed set "in memory of alex chilton"]
[1967] This Memphis-based group took the country by storm with this simple but catchy recording that everyone was singing along to. It was #1 for four straight weeks and, over the years, has become a rock and roll classic. The record featured the distinctive lead singing of Alex Chilton.
Two other Box Top samples are offered here. After the group disbanded, Alex joined a power-rock group called Big Star which, though they never achieved major commercial suggest, had a substantial cult following.
When Hurricane Katrina struck New Orleans Alex, who was living there, was among the missing for quite some time. Thankfully he was evantually found and, as it turned out, he had stayed in his home the entire time and water had gotten up to his porch. He told a reporter that he had food and water but was most concerned oncerned during the week about roving gangs.
Unfortunately the story of this Katrina survivor has a sad ending. Alex passed away unexpectedly, apparently of a heart attack, on March 17. He was 59.
Please check our Daily News page for more information about Alex. Lewis Boogie -- Jerry Lee Lewis
[from the themed set "rock on, boogieman!"]
[1958] There's nothing that I need to say. One listen is worth a thousand words! Life Is A Rock (But The Radio Rolled Me) -- Reunion
[from the themed set "life is a list"]
[1974] Probably the best and most successful "rock list" record of all time. Joey Levine, the lead singer of the Ohio Express and other groups, handles that chore on this record. And I suspect that his rapid-fire delivery of those words may well have BEEN a chore. Lightning Bug -- Ronnie Malone
[from the themed set "it's all the same insect to me"]
[19??] Other than the fact that he and I have the same first name, I know absolutely nothing about this recording artist. But I must say that he is very good indeed! Like I Do -- Nancy Sinatra
[1961] The tune here is Ponchielli's "Dance of the Hours," the same tune that Allan Sherman used in his famous parody song about Camp Granada. Her #1 hit "These Boots Are Made For Walking" came approximately ten releases after this one! Lisbon Antigua -- Nelson Riddle
[from the themed set "mid-50s smash hit instrumentals"]
[1955] Nelson was an orchestra leader, arranger and trombonist whose career spanned from the late 1940s through the early 80s. In the 50s he worked closely at Capitol Records with Frank Sinatra, Ella Fitzgerald, Nat "King" Cole and many other major stars. This was his biggest recording, peaking at #1 for four weeks early in 1956. The title means "Old Lisbon." Little Bit In Love, A -- Patty Loveless
[from the themed set "country girls rule!"]
[1987] It sounds like a contradiction: a "Loveless" lady who sings about being "A Little Bit In Love." Maybe so, but it's a great record. Patty, originally from Kentucky, has charted over 40 singles on the country chart, including five #1 hits ... including this one. Little Girl Cried, A -- Barbara Evans
[1959] "Souvenirs" and "Charlie Wasn't There", by this late artist, remain in our top ten; the former topped our chart for close two two months. Here's a record that shows a different side of her wonderful talent. She was born Barabara Quinn and this recording was provided by her son David. Little Miss America -- Frankie Michaels
[from the themed set "there she was!"]
[1965] Believe it or not there actually WAS a Little Miss America Pageant. It took place at the famous Palisades Park in New Jersey: yes, the place that was immortalized in Freddy Cannon's 1962 smash hit. You can read more details about it by visiting http://www.palisadespark.com/fort_lee.htm. Portions of it were in two towns: Cliffside Park and Fort Lee.
Back in 1964, Frankie (at age 8 or 9) was cast to play the role of "Tommy Hughes" in the popular TV soap opera "As The World Turns." Eventually, in 1966, he was featured along with Angela Lansbury in the hit Broadway musical "Mame."
It was in 1965 when he was signed to Spiral Records to record two sides, both written by Gladys Shelley. Gladys had ties to Palisades Park. She was married to its owner and she wrote the famous "Come On Over" jingle which was recorded by Steve Clayton and used in many of the park's commercials.
And of course it was tied in with the Pageant mentioned above.
Frankie never made a splash with this single and it will surely never go down in history. Nevertheless I like it a lot.
I think of this as "There She Is, Little Miss America"! Little Miss Fool -- Marcie Blane
[from the themed set "two sides (one single) by the "bobby's girl" wannabee"]
[1963] Brooklyn-born Seville Records artist Marcie had a #3 smash with "Bobby's Girl," then followed-up with the much-less-successful "What Does A Girl Do." So what did THIS girl do after that? In my opinion she followed-up with a FABULOUS single with two excellent sides. Though both sides got plenty of airplay in New York City and many other big cities, it simply became one of those "could've, should've, would've but didn't" singles. Listen carefully to this ballad, the "A" side of Seville 126, and you'll probably detect a bit of a Linda Scott influence. Little Serenade -- Teddy Randazzo
[1958] Such a wonderful little recording by a wonderful singer-songwriter and record producer who is so sadly missed.
It's appropriate that we resume additions to this Page with this record on VALENTINE'S DAY.
It's won my heart and I hope it does the same for you. Little Space Girl, The -- Jesse Lee Turner
[from the themed set "space girls"]
[1959] Thanks to Fred Clemens for inspiring this themed set and supplying three of the records.
This is the only one of the five that became a national hit, peaking at #20. Little Tin Box -- Howard DaSilva
[from the themed set "fabulous showstoppers"]
[1959] "Fiorello!" opened on Broadway in November of 1959 and ran for 795 performances. The story follows the life of Fiorello H. La Guardia who, as the mayor of New York City, reformed city politics by breaking the Tammany Hall political machine. Howard DaSilva played the Republican machine boss Ben Marino. He and his cronies perform "Little Tin Box," in which they imagine a series of Tammany politicians attempting to convince a judge that wealth came from their scrupulous habits of saving money. (Yeah, right!) Little Train, The -- Marianne Vasel and Erich Storz
[from the themed set "foreign language recordings"]
[1958] German. Features some great yodeling and train sound effects. Little Willy -- Sweet
[from the themed set "millie and willie"]
[1973] This was a sweet hit for this group: it was their first top 40 hits and also their biggest, peaking at #3. They eventually changed their name to "The Sweet" but I'm using here the billing that was on their original Bell recording of this tune. Oh yes, technically this is not a "Willie" song but a "Willy" song; however it's close enough for rock and roll. Lobachevsky -- Tom Lehrer
[from the themed set "tomfoolery"]
[1953] Please see the blurb for "The Hunting Song" for detailed information about Tom.
He sounds very professorial in this recordinig which is appropriate since it's about a plagiarizing mathematician! Lone Twister, The -- Murray The K
[1961] On the record label it said that the artist was, uh, "The Lone Twister." But since we all know who it REALLY was, I am using "Record Page" license to post prominently the name of the artist. Long Cool Woman (In A Black Dress) -- The Hollies
[from the themed set "a hollies hit and its clone"]
[1972] Doesn't this have a CCR sound? I've never tired of it. Looey Looey -- Buddy Hackett
[1960] This recording probably has more of a connection with Ed Norton's dog "Loo-Loo" than it does with Richard Berry's legendary composition immortalized by the Kingsmen.
There was no Congressional investigation of Buddy's recording!
Thanks to Fred Clemens for making me aware of its existence. Loop De Loop -- Johnny Thunder
[from the themed set "in memory of teddy vann"]
[1962] Teddy Vann was a Brooklyn-born singer-songwriter-producer who never became a "household name" but accomplished a lot and was highly-respected by those in the music. In addition to co-writing and producing this #4 hit by Johnny Thunder, based on an old children's song, produced records by the Bobbettes, Jimmy Jones, Dave "Baby" Cortez, and Clay Cole among others. Clay's recording of "Here, There, Everywhere," written and produced by Teddy and featured in the Clay's movie "Twist Around The Clock, is on this Page.
Teddy passed away recently at the age of 76.
In his memory, let's "Loop De Loop" with Johnny Thunder.
Lord, Mr. Ford -- Jerry Reed
[from the themed set "two still-timely reed-cords from the 70s"]
[1973] Jerry Reed Hubbard was a fabulous singer, songwriter, guitarist, comedian, actor and entertainer. I still find it hard to believe that he passed away in 2008 at the age of 71.
The two records in this themed set came out 37 and 36 years ago respectively and both are still timely as ever.
This is Jerry's recording of a song written by Dick Feller, who himself is represented twice on the Record Page with "Making The Best Of A Bad Situation" and "The Credit Card Song." It became Jerry's second #1 hit on the country chart. Yes, it's about "that demon automobile"! Losing You -- Brenda Lee
[from the themed set "six brenda ballad hits"]
[1963] Moving forward one year, Brenda concludes this themed set with her recording that, in my opinion, is one of her prettiest ballads of all. Also one of her saddest. This peaked at #6.
In the future I'll have another Brenda themed set featuring several of her uptempo recordings. She's a remarkable talent and, may I add, a most deserving Rock and Roll Hall of Fame member. Louisiana Saturday Night -- Mel McDaniel
[from the themed set "get well wishes go out to these three country stars"]
[1981] Heavy prayers are needed for Mel who, sadly, is reportedly not doing well. The 66-year old Grand Ole Opry star is fighting for his life Nashville-area hospital. Country Weekly reports that Mel's wife, Peggy, contacted their offices on Monday, July 6, to request the prayers of the singer's fans, saying that his situation is "not good." On June 16 Mel suffered a heart attack. He is now in a medically-induced coma. Since 1996, the singer has been recovering from a near-fatal fall into an orchestra pit, suffered while he was performing at a show in Lafayette, LA.
When I was a country deejay at WTTM in Trenton, NJ. from 1982 through 1990, Mel was one of the most requested artists and this catchy record was probably the most-requested of his recordings. Love Is A Many-Splendored Thing -- The Four Aces
[from the themed set "in memory of al alberts"]
[1955] This recording by the Four Aces was their most successful ever, spending several weeks at #1 on the chart. It was the title song from the William Holden-Jennifer Jones film of the same name. The recording was also heard many years later at the beginning of the motion picture "Grease," starring John Travolta and Olivia Newton-John. Lovey Dovey -- Buddy Knox
[from the themed set "lyric liftin'"]
[1960] This song contains these lyrics:
"Well you're the cutest thing that I did ever see
  I really love your peaches want to shake your tree
  Lovey dovey, lovey dovey all the time." (see "The Joker" below)
Loving You Has Made Me Bananas -- Guy Marks
[from the themed set "goin' bananas!"]
[1968] Comedian Guy Marks had a surprise hit with this parody of the big band era. A live performance of this is on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dh5oaxyMt0I. You might find that a-peel-ing as well. Lullaby Of Birdland -- The Blue Stars
[from the themed set "foreign language recordings"]
[1956] French. This was a pop-jazz group formed in Paris by Blossom Dearie. This single peaked at #16 on the chart. The composer was the great jazz pianist George Shearing. Lullaby Of The Leaves -- The Ventures
[from the themed set "in memory of the fabulous bob bogle"]
[1961] Bob Bogle, the co-founder and lead guitarist of this legendary group, passed away unexpectedly on June 14 at the age of 75. The band sold millions of records and heavily influenced so many other rock guitarists. They were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2008. Their biggest hit was their first one, "Walk--Don't Run". This one has a similar sound. The song was a #1 hit for George Olsen in 1932. Magic Star (Telstar) -- Kenny Hollywood
[from the themed set "vocalizing instrumental hits"]
[1962] This was a running gag in many oldies circles: "Can you sing 'Telstar'"? That instrumental recording, written and produced by Joe Meek and recorded by the Tornadoes, hit #1 on the chart.
Actually, though, the joke was probably on the person who asked the question! Because, unbeknownst to him or her, lyrics were in fact written to the "Telstar" tune and the vocal version here was also produced by Joe Meek. It never took off so it's understandable that most people don't know about this recording.
But now YOU do! Mairzy Doats -- The Merry Macs
[from the themed set "dees, doats and dee dum"]
[1944] The Macs, a four-part harmony group, were very merry when this bit of nonsense made it to #1 on the chart and spent five weeks there.
The song does make sense if you think "mares eat oats and does eat oats and little lambs eat ivy."
Of course stream-of-consciousness makes me suggest that you also check out Arnold Stang's ivy song on this Page, namely "Ivy Will Cling." Makin' The Best Of A Bad Situation -- Dick Feller
[from the themed set "funny feller"]
[1974] This singer-songwriter, originally from Bronaugh, Missouri, has written some of the most unusual and best country hits. This song, featuring Feller's homespun philosophy, is simply hilarious. And, come to think about it, it all makes perfect sense. Mama -- Connie Francis
[from the themed set "for mom"]
[1960] Touching. Mama-Oom-Mow-Mow -- The Rivingtons
[from the themed set "meet mr. and mrs. oom-mow-mow"]
[1963] This crazy "Mama" is wilder and even more nonsenical than "Papa," which seems tame by comparison. Unfortunately this one did not sell many records; had it done so we might have been greeted with "Baby-Oom-Mow-Mow." Despite it's lack of chart success, I must admit that I like this one at least as much as "Papa," maybe even more. The first two seconds of this masterpiece are absolutely UNBELIEVABLE! Man Song, The -- Sean Morey
[1998] Just listen! Man Who Took The Valise Off The Floor Of Grand Central Station At Noon, The -- She Trinity
[196?] I believe that Lloyd Price also did a version of this tune and that it charted in New York City. Man With The Banjo, The -- The Ames Brothers
[from the themed set "more "banjo" tunes"]
[1954] Gene, Joe, Vic and Ed (AKA "Mr. Tomahawk") put out many great records during a 12-year chart career. This is one of their best. It reached #6 on the chart. March From The River Kwai and Colonel Bogey -- Mitch Miller
[from the themed set "these competing "bogey" men are 97 and 98 respectively!"]
[1958] Mitch, who celebrated his 97th birthday last July 4, reached #20 on the chart with this recording.
"Colonel Bogey" is a popular march that was written in 1914 by Lieutenant F. J. Ricketts (1881-1945), a British military bandmaster who was director of music for the Royal Marines at Plymouth. He wrote it under the pseudonym of Kenneth Alford. The tune was supposedly inspired by a military man and golfer who whistled a characteristic two-note phrase (a descending minor third interval) instead of shouting "Fore!". Bogey is a golfing term meaning one over par and Edwardian golfers in North America often played matches against "Colonel Bogey".
The English composer Malcolm Arnold added a counter-march for use in the 1957 Academy Award winning film "The Bridge on the River Kwai, which was set in World War II. Because the tune is so identified with the film, many people now incorrectly refer to the "Colonel Bogey March" as "The River Kwai March". Miller combines the two into one title which, of course, muddies the water a bit more! Martian Love Call (A Hand Jive) -- Jack Owens
[from the themed set "space girls"]
[1958] This far out recording was probably made to capitalize on the national success of "Willie And The Hand Jive" by the Johnny Otis Show. If that was the intent, it didn't work: this record never really took off. Martian Love Song -- Pete Seeger
[from the themed set "space girls"]
[1958] The legendary Mr. Seeger, who recently celebrated his 90th birthday, recorded this song as part of a wonderful album called "Gazette." I intend to do a themed set of songs from that album some time in the near future. I don't believe that this was ever released as a single. Marvin -- Christine Nelson
[1966] Christine portrayed "Sarah Jackman" on Allan Sherman's classic 1962 recording of that title. Four years later Reprise Records released an album by Christine called "Did'ja Come To Play Cards Or To Talk?" It contained this recording which just about everybody finds adorable except possibly those whose name happens to be Marvin. (And I suspect most Marvins love this record as well, they just won't admit it!) Over the years it's become one of Dr. Demento's most requested records. Sadly Christine passed away in 1988 at the age of 62.
This slightly shortened sample preserves almost all of the funny lines of the original.
Thanks to Fred Clemens for supplying it. Mary's A Grand Old Name -- Bing Crosby
[from the themed set "for our countdown queen, dj mary roboto"]
[1943] Der Bingle doing a fine rendering of the great George M. Cohan standard. I wonder if Bing did the whistling. Me And Bobby McGee -- Janis Joplin
[from the themed set ""bobby" songs"]
[1971] This recording of this Kris Krisofferson tune became a posthumous #1 hit by the star-crossed singer known as "Pearl." Me And Millie (Stompin' Grapes And Gettin' Silly) -- Ronnie Sessions
[from the themed set "millie and willie"]
[1977] When I listen to this I can't help thinking about Mrs. Ricardo doing her thing in that certain episode of "I Love Lucy." Mean Woman Blues -- Roy Orbison
[from the themed set "bad girls"]
[1963] This song had been previously done by both Elvis and Jerry Lee. Roy put his own stamp on it with this version (even mentioning his own name in the lyric) and it was the only one to make the singles chart, peaking at an impressive #5. Meet Mister Callaghan -- Les Paul
[from the themed set "in memory of the amazing les paul"]
[1952] In addition to his multitude of accomplishments as a musician, Les also invented the solid-body electric guitar which was later played by many rock and roll greats. It was in 1952 that Gibson Guitars began producing it, the same year that this solo instrumental hit reached #5 on the chart. Melody Of Love -- Billy Vaughn
[from the themed set "mid-50s smash hit instrumentals"]
[1955] Billy was a member of the Hilltoppers before leaving that group to become the musical director of Dot Records. This well-named recording, which peaked at #2, is simply one of the prettiest love meoldies of all time. Merman And Martin -- Forbidden Broadway
[from the themed set "devastating satire from the masters of broadway parody"]
[198?] Please see the above "Chita-Rita" blurb for details about "Forbidden Broadway."
What's better than one Broadway "feud"? Why TWO Broadway "feuds" of course!
I am pleased to present Nora Mae Lyng as De Merman and Chloe Webb as Mary Martin. Remember, it's all in fun. Right? Mexican Hat Dance -- Allan Sherman
[from the themed set "an allan sherman quadruple play"]
[1963] From the album "My Son The Celebrity." The Jarabe Tapatío, known in English as the "Mexican Hat Dance," is the title of the musical piece and the dance that accompanies it, which is accorded the title of the "national dance of Mexico". Allan's lyrics are, of course, totally original. Midnight Mary -- Joey Powers
[from the themed set "for our countdown queen, dj mary roboto"]
[1963] Joey was born in Canonsburg, as were Perry Como and Bobby Vinton. My Internet buddy, Artie Wayne, co-wrote (with Ben Raleigh) and produced this ingratiating top ten hit. Mira Mira -- The Latin Quarters
[from the themed set "let's go latin!"]
[1964] This themed set is devoted to three uptempo records which were geared primarily for the Latin market but received plenty of pop crossover airplay.
This record appeared on Red Bird Records and some reports claim that, in fact, it was the first ever release on that label. Other reports claim that the Dixie Cups' #1 hit "Chapel Of Love" was the first. The stock number on this one was 000 (pretty strange, huh?) and the stock number on "Chapel" was 001. That would seem to make this one first but, in the crazy record biz, many things are not what they seem! What IS certain is that this record, though not a hit, received plenty of pop airplay in New York and the lady's question which opens the record is memorable to those who have heard it but may have forgotten the title and the recording act.
Oh yes, I haven't a clue as to who these people are! Model Girl -- Johnny Maestro
[from the themed set "heaven's latest golden angel"]
[1960] The first of Johnny's two big solo hits, this peaked at #20.
On the original Coed pressings of this recording he is actually billed as "Johnny Mastro, the voice of the Crests" (with no "e" in his last name) and on "What A Surprise" (the one below) he is billed as "Johnny Maestro, the voice of the Crests" (with an "e"). To avoid confusion -- and because I'm reasonably certain that subsequent pressings of "Model Girl" have him listed as "Maestro" -- I've chosen to leave the external listing here as "Maestro." Yes, once again, I'm exercising my "Record Page license"! Molly -- Bobby Goldsboro
[1962] Several years later, in 1968, Bobby hit #1 on the chart with "Honey." This was his very first hit single and, to my way of thinking, just as moving and sad. The man is an incredible talent. Moments To Remember -- The Four Lads
[from the themed set "four by the lads"]
[1955] A gem that has truly stood the test of the time over the years. Can anyone tell me who the girl is who does the narration part? (It's not a quiz, I'm trying to find out!) This Canadian pop music quartet, from Toronto, Ontario, consisted of the late James Arnold, Bernard Toorish, Frank Busseri and Connie Codorini. Moonglow and Theme From "Picnic" -- Morris Stoloff
[from the themed set "mid-50s smash hit instrumentals"]
[1956] Morris became musical director for Columbia Pictures in 1936. Twenty years later he peaked at #1 for three weeks with this recording which combined the standard "Moonglow" with a new song written for the motion picture "Picnic." Morris conducts the Columbia Pictures Orchestra on this recording. It's amazing that it achieved the commercial success that it did, considering the fact that it competed with an almost identical sound-alike version by George Cates, who was Lawrence Welk's musical director: the Cates recording reached #4. Moose, The -- Woody Allen
[from the themed set "piano virtuosity"]
[1964] This is probably my favorite Woody Allen routine. More -- Perry Como
[from the themed set "four 1956 sides (two singles) by the "singin' barber""]
[1956] This was the "A" of RCA Victor 6554 and it reached #4 on the pop chart. It's an absolutely beautiful song. It's a different song from the "More" that came out a few years later and was the theme from the motion picture "Mondo Cane." Mother, Please! -- Jo Ann Campbell
[from the themed set "for mom"]
[1963] One slightly irreverent (but fun) song. Inspired by the famous Anacin commercial. Mouse, The -- Soupy Sales
[from the themed set "soupy was special"]
[1965] This beloved legendary comedian and TV personality would do just about anything for a laugh and he did one thing thousands of times: he took over 20,000 pies in the face. Over a half century of performing he made over 5000 live TV appearances, primarily in Detroit, New York and Los Angeles. He passed away Thursday, October 22, at the age of 83.
This recording kind of squeaked up the national charts, peaking at #76, but was much bigger in certain parts of the country including New York, where it made the top 5. Move Over Rover -- The Mark IV
[from the themed set "he's a bird. he's a dog. he's a bird dog."]
[1959] This was the follow-up record by the "I Got A Wife" gang. If you liked that one, you'll probably like this one. If not ..... Mr. Lee -- The Bobbettes
[from the themed set "happy girl group sounds"]
[1957] One of the most endearing and enduring girl group sounds of the 50s, this was inspired by and dedicated to their school teacher whose name is the title. Of course you all know what they did to him in a subsequent release but I won't mention it here! Mr. Roboto -- Styx
[from the themed set "for our countdown queen, dj mary roboto"]
[1983] Last but not least! For obvious reasons I just had to include this one in this grouping. It's one of Mary's favorites from the 80s and I suspect it's because of the title. FYI: Mary is happily SINGLE. This was one of only two Styx singles to achieve gold record status; the other one was "Babe." I don't know if this will ever reach the top 20 on our chart -- it's probably unlikely -- but if it did it would be a hoot to hear her announce it as part of the countdown. My Baby Left Me -- Elvis Presley
[1956] This Arthur Crudup composition was the flipside of "I Want You, I Need You, I Love You." It's my favorite Elvis "B" side. My Blue Heaven -- Fats Domino
[from the themed set "blue fats"]
[1956] This song, written by Walter Donaldson and George Whiting, was a #1 hit in 1928 for crooner Gene Austin. Fats's recording got to #19 on the chart and was the "B" side of his #3 hit "I'm In Love Again." The song was published in 1927 and became a huge 1928 hit for crooner Gene Austin, when its was charted for 26 weeks, stayed at #1 for 13, and sold over five million copies. [1]
My Boy Elvis -- Janis Martin
[from the themed set "two more by "the female elvis""]
[1956] This rockabilly classic is Janis's loving tribute to the King. Sadly, Janis passed away in September of 2007. My Boyfriend Got A Beatle Haircut -- Donna Lynn
[from the themed set "two more by donna"]
[1964] Relatively little is known about Donna. This recording turned out to be her only Hot 100 hit and it was the title cut (along with the other one listed here) on a Capitol album. Her Epic recording entitled "Donna Loves Jerry" has been very popular with visitors to this Page. My Dad -- Paul Petersen
[from the themed set "for dad"]
[1962] Paul was one of the stars of the very popular "Donna Reed Show," which ran for nine seasons on the ABC television network. In one episode, as "Jeff Stone," Paul song this Barry Mann/Cynthia Weill song to his TV Dad "Alex Stone," played by the late Carl Betz. My Melody Of Love -- Bobby Vinton
[1974] This was a major comeback hit for Bobby, peaking at #3. It is sung partly in English and partly in Polish. I added Billy Vaughn's "Melody Of Love" (a different song) shortly after adding a different record by Bobby ("Every Day Of My Life") a few days ago. Possibly because of the close proximity of those recordings, I received two email requests to add this one. Your wish is my command! My Mother's Eyes -- Frankie Valley
[from the themed set "hills and valleys"]
[1953] No, my spelling of the artist's name is not a typo. This is the first recording by Francesco Stephen Castellucio and he did indeed cut it as "Frankie Valley," which was a name he reportedly adopted from "Texas" Jean Valley, one of his favorite female singers. Nine years later, of course, the world would know him as Frankie Valli, the lead singer of one of the most popular singing groups on the planet. And yes, like Dan Hill's recording above (but not like Bunker's), this record is also poignant. My Sharona -- The Knack
[from the themed set "in memory of doug fieger"]
[1979] The Knack became an overnight success in 1979 with this recording which spent six weeks at #1 on the Billboard Hot 100 and was an international hit as well. The group consisted of lead singer and guitarist Doug Fieger, guitarist Berton Averre, bassist Prescot Niles and drummer Bruce Gary.
Doug died of cancer on February 14, 2010 at the age of 57. That disease also claimed Bruce in 2007 at the age of 55. My Toot-Toot -- Rockin' Sidney
[from the themed set "the "toot"s have it!"]
[1985] This is a wonderful Cajun tune that's become a huge hit all over the world.
Rockin' Sidney was a Creole-Zydeco singer-musician who was born Sidney Simien. He made musical history with this original song and won a Grammy Award for it as well.
It was the first Zydeco record to get major airplay on pop, rock and country radio stations and became an international phenomenon.
The song's meteoric popularity hinged on its TRIPLE entendre catch phrase, "don't mess with my toot-toot," which some associated with drugs or with sex but, in reality, it was simply a Cajun term of endearment meaning "sweetheart."
Sadly, Rockin' Sidney passed in 1998. He remains one of the most beloved performers in Zydeco music history. My Yiddishe Momme -- Jackie Wilson
[from the themed set "for mom"]
[196?] Precious. Nairna Nairna -- The Melodeers
[1961] The Melodeers were the backup group for the Delicates on their Murray The K "Swingin' Soiree" ("red hot and blue") theme. The Delicates also were at most, if not all, of the Melodeers' recording session, including this one. Name Game, The -- Shirley Ellis
[from the themed set "shirley the three-hit "fun"der"]
[1964] This was the second of Shirley's three happy national top-40 hits, all of which were written by her manager, record producer and songwriting partner Lincoln Chase. It's a rather innocent G-rated song unless you choose to use certain names which are not in Shirley's record. (But I guess you all KNEW that!) Name Of The Game Was Love, The -- Hank Snow
[from the themed set "life is a list"]
[1968] Hank encores with a record in a similar vein to "I've Got Everywhere" above. If you are female, there's a good chance that he sings your name! National City -- Joiner, Arkansas Junior High School Band
[from the themed set "they weren't who they claimed to be"]
[1960] Welcome to "Let's Pretend," Record Page style!
At the time this record came out there was not any junior high school in Joiner, Arkansas. But, more to the point, the polished musicians here were most certainly not junior high school students. They were, in fact, a band of studio musicians led by the great Ernie Freeman.
This came out on Libery Records and Joiner is the hometown of the company president Al Bennett. (Yes, the same Al Bennett whom Alvin the Chipmunk was named after!)
The tune may sound familiar. This is a rock and roll version of a 1906 march entitled "National Emblem."
I hope that you enJoiner this record, which peaked at #53. Nervous Boogie -- Paul Gayten
[1957] Paul was a multi-talented vocalist, songwriter, pianist and bandleader. He played piano on Chuck Berry's hit "Carol." He discovered Clarence "Frogman" Henry and co-wrote his biggest hit "But I Do." He also sang backup on many R&B hits.
This recording is purely instrumental and it's tough to sit still while listening to it. It only got to #68 on the national chart: it deserved to go much higher. Never Naughty Rosie -- Sue Thompson
[1976] Our Sue like you've never heard her before! This was her last charted single, peaking at #95 on the country chart. Nitty Gritty, The -- Shirley Ellis
[from the themed set "shirley the three-hit "fun"der"]
[1963] This was the first of Shirley's three happy national top-40 hits, all of which were written by her manager, record producer and songwriting partner Lincoln Chase. Though some consider it a novelty, I don't think it really is. It sounds like she may be singing about a dance but that's not really clear. No Charge -- Melba Montgomery
[from the themed set "for mom"]
[1974] This recording brings tears to my eyes whenever I hear it. No Particular Place To Go -- Chuck Berry
[from the themed set "did chuck really sue himself and win?"]
[1964] When he needed a melody to fit these lyrics, he didn't have to look far. After all, he had a lot of "school"in'! There is no truth to the story that Chuck was so incensed about plagiarizing his own hit that he took himself to court and won! What may be true is that this may be the only instance in the rock era where someone wrote a hit tune and used it in two separate contexts, both of which made the top 10. This one peaked at #10. Nobody -- Sylvia
[from the themed set "country girls rule!"]
[1982] Sylvia, born Sylvia Kriby Allen, is the second artist on this Page using that single name as her professional name, the other being Sylvia Robinson (formerly of Mickey and Sylvia) who is represented with her solo hit "Pillow Talk."
Country music's Sylvia was born in Kokomo, Indian. This RCA recording is the only record in this themed set to crossover to the pop chart: in addition to hitting #1 on the country chart it peaked at #15 on the Billboard Hot 100. Not Getting Married -- Linda November
[1987] I included a slightly longer version of this recording on the radio interview show that I did with Linda November and her husband Artie Schroeck which is on my Radio Page.
Linda is the "Meow Meow Meow Meow" lady who sang on thousands of jingles (including that legendary Purina Meow Mix commercial) and dozens of hit records.
This recording, from a live show that she did in New York City in 1987 called "November in May" (she did it on May 8 of that year), shows yet another side of her amazing versatility.
This song is from Stephen Sondheim's hit musical "Company." Many well-known entertainers have performed it but, to my way of thinking, nobody does it better than Linda.
During the show I told her that she sang this at 200 miles an hour and she agreed with me!
Music police, stop that lady, she's way over the speed limit!
Note: you can watch a video of Linda's "November In May" performance of this song on YouTube. The address is: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mtoxUfw3YFQ Now! -- Lena Horne
[from the themed set "lena!"]
[1963] This was Lena's legendary civil rights plea. The tune is familar (the Israeli tune "Hava Nagila") but the words are very different. Though very much in the news when it came out, the single received somewhat limited airplay as much because of its length (4:41) as because of its subject matter: it did manage to reach #92 on the chart and was her only Hot 100 single. The sample presented here is approximately two and a half minutes.
O Sole Mio -- Mario Lanza
[from the themed set "all the same tune"]
[19??] "O Sole Mio" is a globally-known Neapolitan song written in 1898. It has been performed and covered by a multitude of artists. The original lyrics were written by Giovanni Capurro and the melody was composed by Eduardo di Capua. Two sets of English lyrics were eventually written to the tune (not translations) and they evolved into the the pop hits "There's No Tomorrow" (Tony Martin) and "It's Now Or Never" (Elvis Presley), samples of which are included in this grouping. If you listen to these in order, you must admit that Mario is a great opening act and Rlvis is a great closing act! O Solo Mio -- Lafaro
[from the themed set "all the same tune"]
[19??] A very different interpretation and a slightly different title but it's the same tune. Oh Boy -- Allan Sherman
[from the themed set "an allan sherman quadruple play"]
[1962] From the album "My Son The Folk Singer." It's a bit different from his other recordings. The original track runs over four minutes and I tried to pick out what I feel are the best portions, editing it down to 2 and a half minutes. Oh Neil -- Carole King
[from the themed set "answer records"]
[1959] Answer record to Neil Sedaka's "Oh Carole." Reportedly Carole isn't too fond of this one but I know that many oldies fans are. It came out on the tiny Alpine label. Wonder if Neil Sedacky likes it! Oh! Ma-Ma! (The Butcher Boy) -- Rudy Vallee and his Connecticut Yankees
[1938] Both this record and "Lazy Mary" were based on a traditional Italian song called "Luna Mezzo Mare." The "vocal refrain" on this record is credited on the label (Bluebird) to Red Stanley and the Gentlemen Songsters. I have always thought that Rudy himself may be doing the voice of the mother but I could be wrong. Of course the song is absurd but I'm unabashedly a sucker for this kind of stuff. Oh! Moytle -- Guy Lombardo
[1945] Guy and his Royal Canadians had an incredible 218 charted records. This is one of the least remembered.
I can't for the life of me figure out why. Oh! My Pa-Pa -- Eddie Fisher
[from the themed set "for dad"]
[1953] This is arguably the most popular "father" recording of all time. It is a German song about a beloved clown father, written by Paul Burkhard in 1939 for a musical called Der Schwarze Hecht (reproduced in 1950 as Feuerwerk (Fireworks), with lyrics by Erik Charell, Jurg Amstein, and Robert Gilbert. Under the original German title (O Mein Papa), an instrumental version by Eddie Calvert topped the British charts and hit the top ten in the United States. It was adapted into English by John Turner and Geoffrey Parsons under the title "Oh! My Pa-Pa". This recording by Eddie Fisher -- released at the end of 1953 -- was his biggest hit ever and was #1 on the chart for eight weeks in 1954. Ol' Man Mose -- Eddy Duchin (vocal by Patricia Norman)
1939: This record was controversial in its day because of something that Patricia may have sung. You can find out more by creative Googling. I found the song dumb but catchy and was unaware of its checkered history until recently. Ol' Race Track, The -- The Mills Brothers
[from the themed set "congratulations to kentucky derby winner mine that bird!"]
[1967] This single is one of my favorites from this legendary group. I love how a guitar (rather than the customary bugle) keeps playing the "call to the post" throughout their performance. Endearing but also sad in a way because it turned out to be their last hit. Old Piano Roll Blues, The -- Hoagy Carmichael and Cass Daley
[1950] Legendary songwriter Hoagy and renowned actress-comedienne Cass team up on this delightful rendition. The song was written by Cy Coben, the same man who later wrote "Souvenirs," recorded by Barbara Evans and "That Greasy Kid Stuff," recorded by Janie Grant. Old Smokey Locomotion -- Little Eva
[from the themed set "three flavors of that "old smoky" song""]
[1962] Not only did Little Eva use a different spelling of "Old Smoky" for her update of the tune but she also used a different spelling of "Locomotion"! (Her #1 hit was "The Loco-Motion," with the hyphen! On June 30, 1962 Eva debuted at #69 on the Billboard Hot 100 and the Tom Glazer "Old Smoky" parody record listed below debuted at #68. Eva's dance record ran out of motion at #48 on the chart. Tom's mushy meatball record peaked at #14. Oliver Cool -- Oliver Cool
[1960] To continue my external comment .....
Cool title. Cool artist. But not a really hot hit.
Now this could have made for a really cool themed set (artists with same name as title) but I felt that Oliver was so cool that I decided to give him a solo splotlight. It might be consolation for that fact that this record, as cool as it was and as often as it was played, the best it could do was be a regional hit in some areas of the country including New York City. Well, maybe it will do better on OUR chart.
The song was written by Paul Vance and Lee Pockriss, the same team that brought you "Itsy Bitsy Teenie Weenie Yellow Polkadot Bikini."
I know you're all saying "is Oliver Cool his REAL name"? Nah. His family and friends knew him as Larry Ellis. On The Atchison, Topeka And Santa Fe -- Johnny Mercer
[from the themed set "40's best song oscar winners"]
[1945] 1945 Best Song Oscar winner, from "The Harvey Girls": music by Harry Warren, lyrics by Johnny Mercer. This was a #1 hit for Johnny. On The Way To Cape May -- Al Alberts
[from the themed set "in memory of al alberts"]
[19??] This song has become a Jersey Shore summertime anthem and a cult classic for the Philadelphia/Delaware Valley and South Jersey Shore area. It was written by Maurice "Buddy" Nugent. The song became famous without the push of a major record label. There are several version of it and Al's is among the most popular. On Top Of Old Smoky -- The Weavers and Terry Gilkyson
[from the themed set "three flavors of that "old smoky" song""]
[1951] "Old Smoky" is a traditional folk song which spent eight weeks at #2 in this version by the Weavers. The tune has been recorded many times over the years and has been parodied a great deal. See the Tom Glazer record below for a modest example of that. Terry Gilkyson had his own hit "Marianne" during the rock era and was the writer of Dean Martin's #1 hit "Memories Are Made Of This": his group The Easy Riders backed Dino on that record.
Thanks to Mike Riccio for suggesting this themed set. Visit Mike's "Oldies Music Board" at http://www.oldiesboard.com for a great discussion of recordings; that board was formerly Bob Shannon's "Behind The Hits" message board. Bob frequently posts on Mike's board. On Top Of Spaghetti -- Sharon and the Lollipops
[from the themed set "holy smoky! there's more!"]
[1962] I thank Fred Clemens for making me aware of the two records in this themed set and a West Coast friend of mine (who prefers anonymity) for making both of them available to me. This appeared on the New York-based Versatile label. On Top Of Spaghetti -- Tom Glazer and the Do-Re-Mi Children's Chorus
[from the themed set "three flavors of that "old smoky" song""]
[1963] Tom, born in Philadelphia, was a folk singer who hosted his own ABC radio show from 1945 to 1947 and composed the score for the 1957 film "A Face In The Crowd." He died in 2003 at the age of 88. As noted in the blurb for Little Eva's recording, he debuted in the Billboard Hot 100 at #68 in the same week that Eva debuted with "Old Smokey Locomotion". When the smoke cleared, Tom's record had amazingly rolled up to #14 on the chart while Eva's had stalled at #48. One More Dance -- Esther and Abi Ofarim
[from the themed set "very strange love songs from esther and abi!"]
[1968] This was the follow-up to "Cinderella Rockefella" and was a very different kind of love song featuring a bit of black humor. One On The Right Is On The Left, The -- Johnny Cash
[from the themed set "left and right"]
[1965] This clever tune, written by Jack Clement, was included in Johnny Cash's album entitled "Everybody Loves A Nut." Open Up Your Heart -- Roger Miller
[from the themed set "miller time"]
[1973] Only Roger could write a song with the lines "Open up your heart, Jiggle it a little it'll open." What a fine talent he was. Open Up Your Heart (And Let The Sunshine In) -- The Cowboy Church Sunday School
[1955] The great songwriter Stuart Hamblen, who wrote the standard "This Ole House" (which was a #1 hit for Rosemary Clooney), wrote this song. And this recording was indeed a family affair.
Stuart's daughter, Veeva Susanne, sang lead on this record and sure sounded like a little kid. But she really was NOT! Veeva was 18 years old. Stuart recorded her (and the rest of the singers) at 33 1/3 rpm and when the record is played at the "right" speed (45 rpm) they sound like children. This came three years before the Witch Doctor and the Chipmunks saw the light of day!
The others on the record are Obee Jane "Lisa" (age 16) with his wife Suzy plus two of the girl's friends.
Veeva eventually married the well-known singer-actor Harve Presnell who, sadly, recently passed away.
Original Crazy Otto Medley, The -- Crazy Otto
[1953] My comment about Johnny Maddox's "The Crazy Otto," added a few days ago, was this:
"Johnny is backed by the Rhythmasters on this medley of German tunes inspired by the renowned honky tonk pianist Crazy Otto, whose real name was Fritz Schulz-Reichel."
For now I'm leaving it up but I may decide to change the wording. Because to say that Johnny was inspired to do what he did suggests that HE (or those at Dot Records) sequenced the medley. It turns out that was NOT the case. Thanks to Mike Riccio who first pointed this out to me and to Fred Clemens who supplied THIS Crazy Otto record, I now know that Johnny Maddox in 1955 simply did a SONG-BY-SONG NOTE-FOR-NOTE copy of THIS recording that Fritz had done two years earlier. Johnny and the Dot folks WERE creative in many ways over the years but, in this particular case, they simply had a creative MEMORY of something they had heard before!
One more interesting fact: Fritz recorded several different medleys, similar to this one, which all had the base title "Die Beschwipste Drahtkommode" followed by identification numbers. Our Hour (The Puppy Love Song) -- Spike Jones and his City Slickers
[from the themed set "who let these dogs out?"]
[1947] Chronologically this came ten years before Carol's recording. But I felt that, of these two, this one really needed to close this show! Again, strictly speaking, this song is not called "Puppy Love." The vocals on this, assuming you care, are by the Tailwaggers, Dr. Horatio Q. Birdbath and the inimitable Sir Frederick Gas. Pachalafaka -- Soupy Sales
[from the themed set "soupy was special"]
[1965] This is the flipside of the above recording and almost as well known because of its title. Do they really whisper that word all over Turkey? Papa-Oom-Mow-Mow -- The Rivingtons
[from the themed set "meet mr. and mrs. oom-mow-mow"]
[1962] When known as the Sharps, the group provide the rebel noises on many of Duane Eddy's hits. This nonsensical but fun record got to #48 on the Hot 100. Another Rivingtons' song ("The Bird's The Word") and this one were combined into a new composition called "Surfin' Bird," which the Trashmen took to #4 in 1964. Paralyzed -- The Legendary Stardust Cowboy
[196?] It's on a major label (Mercury). It's by a "legendary" artist. It's certainly unique! Peaches 'N' Cream -- The Ikettes
[from the themed set "the same group but with totally different members"]
[1965] This was the same group as the "I'm Blue" gang but with three different members. Performers on this recording, released on Modern, were Vanetta Fields, Robbie Montgomery and Jessi Smith. In 1968, as the Mirettes, they recorded a version of "In The Midnight Hour," originally a hit for Wilson Pickett. Peggy Sue -- Buddy Holly
[from the themed set "remembering ritchie, buddy and bopper"]
[1957] Buddy's first taste of fame came as lead singer of the Crickets, whose first and biggest hit was the chart-topper "That'll Be The Day." "Peggy Sue" was his first and biggest solo hit, peaking at #3 for three weeks. Gary Busey portrayed him in the 1978 biographical movie "The Buddy Holly Story." Buddy was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall Of Fame in 1986.
Penny Loafers And Bobby Socks -- Joe Bennett and the Sparkletones
[from the themed set "sparklin' rock and roll"]
[1957] This was the follow-up to "Black Slacks" and, in my opinion, it's just as good. Amazingly it missed the top forty, peaking at #42. This group surely deserved more commercial success than they attained. Phone Bust -- Hudson and Landry
[1972] Bob Hudson and Ron Landry were an immensesly popular morning radio team on KGBS in Los Angeles. It was their on air chemistry that lead to the recording of several successful comedy albums on Dore Records. Their first single release was the uproarious recording "Ajax Liquor Store" which, along with the subsequently added "Ajax Airlines," has been on this Page for quite some time. All told they recorded a few dozen different comedy bits. Sadly both of these very funny gentlemen have passed away: Hudson in 1997 (age 66) and Landy in 2002 (age 67).
Someone named Leslie requested that I add this non-Ajax routine to the page and I am happy to oblige. The title that I show here is a slight modification of the actual title (to make it more palatable for newcomers) and I did a very minor edit in the interest of political correctness. Pillow Talk -- Doris Day
[from the themed set "pillow talk"]
[1959] The title song from one of Doris's most popular films. It's the one in which she meets Rock Hudson For the first time. Pillow Talk -- Sylvia
[from the themed set "pillow talk"]
[1973] Sylvia Robinson was the female half of the Mickey and Sylvia duo. Had this recording come out in 1957, when "Love Is Strange" rode the charts, radio stations probably would not have touched this with a ten-foot pole. But by 1973, standards were much more relaxed and by then, for the most part, this recording was radio friendly. Pineapple Princess -- Annette
[1960] Okay, I LOVE this! She'll always be a princess. This is a fun record and one of my favorites from 1960. I'll put more records by her on this page in the near future. Pink Thunderbird -- Gene Vincent
[from the themed set "thunderbird songs other than you-know-what!"]
[1957] This recording shows the humorous side of this rockabilly great. Pizza Song, The -- Dick Biondi
[from the themed set "holy smoky! there's more!"]
[1961] Dick is a legendary Hall Of Fame deejay who, over several decades, worked in markets including Buffalo, Los Angeles and perhaps most notably Chicago, where he was working when he recorded this for the Chicago-based IRC label. Dick did NOT become a legend for doing this particular record but, for what it's worth, this may be the first released version of a "Smoky-Spaghetti" parody, which shortly evolved into the better-known "On Top Of Spaghetti." Speaking of which, see the next record! Play A Simple Melody -- Gary Crosby and Friend
[from the themed set "now who could his friend possibly be?"]
[1950] This was the "A" side of Decca 27112, a two-sided smash. This side stayed at its peak of #2 for two weeks. The billing on the label is the way I've listed it here. The song was from the Broadway musical "Watch Your Step." Point Of Order -- Stan Freberg
[1954] Because of the politically hot subject being made fun of, this recording received limited airplay, probably making Freberg say "Baa! Humbug!" Pollution -- Tom Lehrer
[from the themed set "tomfoolery"]
[1965] Please see the blurb for "The Hunting Song" for detailed information about Tom.
This was from Tom's album "That Was The Year That Was." Tom had written severals songs for the popular TV series "That Was The Week That Was" and some of those songs appeared on that album. Tom had developed a cult following from his first two albums and this one brought him squarely into the mainstream: it made the top 20 on the album chart. This song is one of the few songs from the album which is not dated; what he says about on the subject at hand still very much applies today. Though the subject is a serious one, his approach is decidedly comedic. Pomp And Circumstance -- Adrian Kimberly
[from the themed set "the rodent trio graduates"]
[1961] This is sometimes called "The Graduation Song." Adrian Kimberly was none other than a pseudonym for Don Everly, who released this on his own Calliope label. Pooped -- Larry Storch
[from the themed set "are you ready to get storched?"]
[196?] I'm not sure when this one came out and know nothing about it except that it's called "Pooped"! Poor People Of Paris, The -- Les Baxter
[from the themed set "mid-50s smash hit instrumentals"]
[1956] Like Nelson Riddle, Les was an orchestra leader and arranger and musician who worked at Capitol Records and often competed with Nelson. Of the four instrumentals in the themed set, this was the biggest of the big, peaking at #1 for six weeks. The song was adapted by Jack Lawrence in 1954 from the French language song "La Goualante Du Pauvre Jean" ("The Ballad of Poor John"). The title arises in part from a misinterpretation of the French title, as "Pauvre Jean" was taken for the same-sounding "Pauvre Gens," which translates as "poor people." As far as I know, nobody complained about it! Pop Goes The Weasel -- 3rd Bass
[from the themed set "so you think you really know this song?"]
[1991] Could there be a CONTROVERSIAL version of "Pop Goes The Weasel"?
Absolutely! This is it!
This is an integrated group of rappers from Queens, New York doing a hiphop rendition of "Weasel." The recording is a playful (or maybe NOT so playful) musical roast of rapper Vanilla Ice who had recently achieved a #1 pop hit with "Ice Ice Baby." My gut feeling tells me that Ice wasn't too thrilled with this, unless he felt that all publicity is GOOD publicity!
This record suggests that one cannot always judge a single by its opening! Pop Goes The Weasel -- Anthony Newley
[from the themed set "so you think you really know this song?"]
[1961] The man who stopped the show in "Stop The World I Want To Get Off" performs a public service with this recording of "Weasel." He actually explains what the song is all about and is so convincing that I believe every word. Pop Goes The Weasel -- Spike Jones featuring Wilbur Hall
[from the themed set "so you think you really know this song?"]
[194?] I'm sure most of you have wondered what "Pop Goes The Weasel" would sound like if played on a Stradivarius violin, right?
Well, wonder no more!
Spike and the amazing Wilbur Hall close out this themed set! Pop Goes The Weasel -- The Countdown Kids
[from the themed set "so you think you really know this song?"]
[2006] "Pop Goes the Weasel" is an English language nursery rhyme song that appears to have originated somewhere around 1850. It has, over the years, acquired many different sets of lyrics and probably not too many of them make a lot of sense. I've often wondered what the meaning of the title is and Anthony Newley at least makes an effort to try to explain it. But that's below.
Meanwhile we'll lead off with the most recent of the "Weasel" recordings and this is the most conventional, probably the way most of you remember it. It's from the album "150 Fun Songs For Kids."
If you choose to listen to all six of these samples you might be surprised to find that they are all truly different versions of the same song. Pop Goes The Weasel -- The Magic Reign
[from the themed set "so you think you really know this song?"]
[1968] The Magic Reign, from the Manassas, Virginia area, were a garage rock band who recorded for Jamie. Because of what they're singing here, this to me sounds more like bubblegum than garage rock. Pop Goes The Weasel -- The Merry Macs
[from the themed set "so you think you really know this song?"]
[1938] This Minnesota group who began singing in the 1920s recorded this jazzy sounding version of "Weasel" when they signed with Decca. Six years later they topped the chart with "Mairzy Doats" which, arguably, is just as a dumb a song. Maybe even dumber! Pop Hates The Beatles -- Allan Sherman
[from the themed set ""beatles" in the title"]
[1964] It was no surprise that Allan would offer his take on Beatlemania. This was never a single. It was on his LP "For Swingin' Livers Only." Por Amor Viviremos -- Captain and Tennille
[from the themed set "foreign language recordings"]
[1975] Spanish. This version of their chart-topper "Love Will Keep Us Together" made it to #49 on the chart. It's interesting, though not surprising, that the word "whatever" and the phrase "Sedaka is back" is in English: they were part of the original vocal track, which was unchanged. Portuguese Washerwomen -- Joe "Fingers" Carr
[from the themed set "two catchy capitol instrumentals"]
[1956] Joe was actually Lou Busch, the well-known composer and arranger. Quite a piano player too! President Song, The -- Jill Corey
[195?] Having interviewed Jill, I know that this is not necessarily one of her favorite recordings. However I think it's lots of fun. Private John Q -- Glen Campbell
[from the themed set "a private battle"]
[1964] This was Glen's fine cover version of Roger's tune. It Bubbled Under the Hot 100 but never was able to march up the chart. Private John Q -- Roger Miller
[from the themed set "a private battle"]
[1964] Roger wrote it, Roger sang it. A great song with a military feel and message. But it never became a hit. Puff (The Magic Dragon) -- Peter, Paul and Mary
[from the themed set "in memory of mary travers"]
[1963] I recently saw Peter perform this at a concert and book signing at a Barnes and Noble store near me. After 46 years, it still sounds as fresh as ever. Mary's voice, of course, adds magic to this smash hit recording which peaked at #2. This song has touched so many people's hearts throughout the world and is wonderful in every respect. Puppy Love -- Barbara Lewis
[from the themed set "dog-gone it, this title sure is pup-ular!"]
[1963] Barbaras love puppies! This is the second Barbara to do a "Puppy Love" song and this is a bouncy Lewis original. In late 1963 it was released as the "B" side of "Snap Your Fingers" but, when the smoke cleared, it was "Puppy Love" that happily scampered to #38 on the Billboard Hot 100, leaving the not-so-snappy recording far behind (it peaked at #71). Puppy Love -- Barbara Lyon
[from the themed set "dog-gone it, this title sure is pup-ular!"]
[1956] Barbara Lyon was the daughter of Hollywood stars Ben Lyon and Bebe Daniels. Sadly she passed away in 1995. Puppy Love -- Jess Duboy
[from the themed set "dog-gone it, this title sure is pup-ular!"]
[1959] If anyone can supply information about this artist, please do. I love when he goes "r-r-rip" several times during this record and the sound of the girl singers on it as well. Puppy Love -- Little Jimmy and the Tops
[from the themed set "dog-gone it, this title sure is pup-ular!"]
[1961] I am pretty sure that Ronnie Mack wrote this song. He gained short-lived fame as the writer of the Chiffons' #1 hit "He's So Fine." I believe he never lived to see the success of that song. There's a lot of a Frankie Lymon and the Teenagers influence here. Puppy Love -- Nino and the Ebb Tides
[from the themed set "dog-gone it, this title sure is pup-ular!"]
[1958] Their name is sometimes spelled "Ebbtides." Several releases after this one, they made the national chart with their updating of the Glenn Miller and Modernaires staple "Juke Box Saturday Night" and got regional action with their grammatically-correct rendering of "Those Oldies But Goodies (REMIND Me Of You)." Puppy Love -- Paul Anka
[from the themed set "dog-gone it, this title sure is pup-ular!"]
[1960] THANKS TO FRED CLEMENS FOR BOTH SUGGESTING THE IDEA FOR THIS THEMED SET AND ALSO FOR SUPPLYING SEVERAL OF THE RECORDINGS. ALL OF THESE SIX SONGS WITH THE TITLE "PUPPY LOVE" ARE DIFFERENT FROM ONE ANOTHER.
Paul barked the loudest of all with his 1960 recording, spending a pair of weeks at #2 on the Billboard Hot 100. Put A Light In The Window -- The Four Lads
[from the themed set "four by the lads"]
[1957] No deep message here. Simply a great catchy tune. Put Another Log On The Fire -- Tompall
[1975] The artist is Tompall Glaser, who has recorded most of his records with his brothers Chuck and Jim. All have had solo hits on the country charts.
This song was written by Shel Silverstein. Put Your Hand In The Hand -- Linda November and Friend
[1967] Linda November and "Jingle Lady" are synonymous. At one time she had over 700 jingles playing simultaneously. Her legendary "Meows" were for the Meow Mix Cat Food commercial, reportedly the number one jingle of all time.
She's also a 30 year veteran of the music industry and her voice can be heard on countless albums with some of the greatest artists of all time, including her friend who is featured here. He made a nice living cutting hair before making an even nicer living cutting records. You might recognize his voice!
As a duo they make beautiful music together as evidenced by this wonderful recording of a song best-known in the hit version by the Canadian group Ocean. This duet was from an RCA album. I am sure that additional "piece of the puzzle" is what you need to figure out who Linda's friend is! (Wink!)
Rejoice! Pu-uh-uh-up-py Love -- Carol Burnett
[from the themed set "who let these dogs out?"]
[1957] This was the flipside of "I Made A Fool Of Myself Over John Foster Dulles. This is her contribution to the "Puppy Love" sweepstakes though, strictly speaking, her song did NOT have that title! Radio -- Shakin' Stevens and Roger Taylor
[from the themed set "radio waves"]
[1992] Shakin' Stevens, also known as "Shaky" was born Michael Barrett in 1948 and is a platinum selling Welsh rock and roll singer and songwriter who has reportedly the top selling male UK singles artist of the 1980s. Roger Taylor was the drummer for the supergroup Queen. His drumming contribution to this killer record earned him co-billing with Shakin'. Ragtime Sound -- Marcie Blane
[from the themed set "two sides (one single) by the "bobby's girl" wannabee"]
[1963] Totally different from the "A" side, Marcie will really make you tap your toes with this uptempo ditty. Her prediction in this song that in 1993 they'd "bring back the twist" didn't exactly come about. Nevertheless this "B" side of Seville 126 is a fun record! Rainbow Connection -- Kermit the Frog (Jim Henson)
[from the themed set "froggy"]
[1979] This incredible Muppet man died so tragically at the age of 53. He was the voice of both Kermit the Frog and Ernie. This recording is from the original soundtrack of "The Muppet Movie." Rappin' Rodney -- Rodney Dangerfield
[1983] Despite making a career out of getting "no respect," this comedian/actor actually got plenty. In 1980, when he was at the height of his popularity and at the top of his form, his landmark comedy album "No Respect" was released and it went on to win the Grammy Award for Best Comedy Album Of The Year. Over the years he had millions of fans all over the world. His "gimmick" is surely one of the most famous in show business history. In the 60's, while working on the social staff of the Concord Hotel in Kiamesha Lake, NY, I had the pleasure of knowing him briefly and I even got to perform on the same show with him at a nearby bungalow colony. Rodney was a true gentleman. And he DID get some respect as a "rapper" when he released this recording: it peaked at #83 in Billboard! This edited sample, though less than half the length of the original, includes almost all of Rodney's dialogue. Enjoy. Rats In My Room -- Joey and Danny
[1963] This record joins the Handclappers' "Three Gassed Rats" which has been on the Record Page almost since Day One and has largely been ignored.
Joey Reynolds and Danny Neaverth were very popular deejays on the legendary WKBK in Buffalo in the early to mid 60s. The original version of this song was by Leona Anderson. However most of the lyrics you hear on this updated version -- which the jocks did as a lark -- were their own. I must say that they don't write songs like this anymore!
Some have wondered if this was released as an actual single. The answer is YES (on Swan Records). It became a regional hit, most likely in the region of Joey and Danny's living rooms.
"The Pizza Song" by fellow jock Dick Biondi has developed a cult following here, doing extremely well on the weekly Top 100 charts. Will this ratty record follow suit? Stay tuned to find out. Record Reviewers -- The Idiots & Company
[from the themed set "nutty sascha"]
[1961] Like "Uh! Oh!," this is nutty but in a slightly different and perhaps hipper sort of way. Sascha and a different partner, Mason Adams, recorded this track as part of an album called "In Our Own Image." Sascha Burland was a jazz aficianados and those people, as you probably know, by and large do not care much for rock and roll. Like Stan Freberg's "The Old Payola Roll Blues" this also makes fun of that musical genre but in a more subtle way.
Thanks to Fred Clemens for both suggesting and sending this track and also for pointing out that the "& Company" part of their name comes from the fact that both "are masters of many, many voices."
Iggity-Boo, Enjoy! Red Hot -- Billy Lee Riley
[from the themed set "in memory of a fabulous rockabilly artist"]
[1957] This came out a few months after "Flyin' Saucers" and is probably Billy Lee's most famous recording. The lines "My gal is red hot, your gal ain't doodley-squat" are classic.
Both this song and "Flyin' Saucers" were eventually covered by Link Wray and Robert Gordon. Red Light -- Merrill Moore
[1953] Pianist/singer Merrill Moore released this record in 1953. His recordings combined or were a fusion of elements of Western swing, boogie woogie and ragtime. When I first heard "Red Light" I immediately considered it a rock and roll record and sensed what I felt was a vocal similarity between Merrill and Bill Haley. However, upon doing additional research, I learned that Merrill did NOT ever see himself as a rock and roller and had a distinct dislike for that music! Also he said that Bill Haley had no real sense of rhythm! The tune to "Red Light" (the verses, not the chorus) sounds very similar to "Jump, Jive and Wail," which was recorded by many artists including Louis Prima and the Brian Setzer Orchestra (but never by Merrill Moore). I am not sure which song was written first. Red Thunderbird -- Lynn Howard and the Accents
[from the themed set "thunderbird songs other than you-know-what!"]
[19??] Unlike the song above, there's no "fire" in this red T-Bird. Simply a cool song with some nice dialogue to boot. Reelin' And Rockin' -- Chuck Berry
[from the themed set "chuck rocks!"]
[1958] This was the "B" side of Chuck's #2 smash hit "Sweet Little Sixteen." Though it did not chart, a raunchy 1972 live version (which he performed in the Alan Freed biopic "American Hot Wax") did.
I much prefer this original version.
One might ask: if Chuck was having such a great time, why did he constantly look at his watch? Hmmmm. Maybe it's because he planned to write this song and wanted the information to be precise! Reunion -- Bobbie Gentry
[196?] The whimsical side of the "Ode To Billie Joe" girl. River Deep-Mountain High -- Ike and Tina Turner
[from the themed set "in memory of ellie greenwich"]
[1966] This recording, of a song co-written by Ellie, Jeff Barry and Phil Spector, had all the elements of a smash hit, including a quinessential example of the Spector "Wall Of Sound."
And it WAS a smash hit.
In England.
In the United States, for whatever reason, it was a relative failure, peaking at #88.
Ultimately a version of this song by the Supremes and the Four Tops made it to #14 in 1971. But this is truly the DEFINITIVE version. In spite of its lack of commercial success in the US, it's unquestionably become a rock and roll classic. Rock And Roll Music -- Chuck Berry
[from the themed set "chuck rocks!"]
[1957] Chuck is surely one of the most popular artists on this Page if not THE most popular. I feel the time is right to add three more rockin' Berry efforts, all of which have "rock" (or a form of "rock") in the title.
This is indeed one of the great rock and roll anthems. Unlike other songs which talk about rock and roll in more general terms, Chuck is much more specific about WHY he likes this genre of music.
This peaked at #8 on the chart. Rock And Roll Thunderbird -- The Burt Sisters
[from the themed set "thunderbird songs other than you-know-what!"]
[19??] I know nothing about this record other than the fact that the sisters do it with the Jimmy Ellidge Band. I assume that it is Jimmy playing the fabulous 88. Rock Love -- The Fontane Sisters
[from the themed set "50's sisters, real and imaginary"]
[1955] They were Bea, Marge and Geri from New Milford, New Jersey and their family name was Rosse. They had many hit recordings on their own and several with Perry Como. Sadly all three sisters are deceased. Rockabilly Rebel -- Orion
[from the themed set "elvis sound-alikes and wannabees"]
[1981] "Orion" was the stage name of rockabilly performer Jimmy Ellis. Following the death of Elvis August 1977, Orion dressed and sang in the manner of Presley and wore a mask during public appearances, fueling speculation that Elvis had faked his death and returned to singing. One thing's for certain: "Orion" sure sounded like the King! Though Orion never had a pop chart presence, 10 of his recordings made the country chart. This was his most successful, peaking at #63.
Orion's life ended tragically on December 12, 1998, when he was shot to death while working at a convenience store in his hometown of Orrville, Alabama. He was 53. Rockin' Robin -- Bobby Day
[from the themed set "he's a bird. he's a dog. he's a bird dog."]
[1958] This was the "A" side of Bobby's smash hit, peaking at #2 on the chart. The flipside was "Over And Over," which in the 60s was remade by the Dave Clark Five and became their only U.S. chart-topper. Roll Over Beethoven -- Chuck Berry
[from the themed set "bach, beethoven and brahms"]
[1956] Okay, I could have chosen to use a certain #1 disco record. But being someone weaned on 50s rock and roll, I prefer this one. I believe that more people have recorded it than any of his other songs. Simply put, this is a GREAT record! Ronnie -- Marcy Joe
[from the themed set "our namesakes"]
[1961] I've always had a fondness for this recording by Marcy who was from Pittsburgh, PA. So what if it only reached #81 on the chart! Root Beer Rag -- Billy Joel
[from the themed set "piano virtuosity"]
[197?] Instrumentalist Billy Joel, who plays this original composition, also achieved success as a pop and rock vocalist. Rose O'Day (The Filla-Ga-Dusha Song) -- Kate Smith
[1942] Others recorded this song but, in my view, no one ever did it as well as Kate. The parenthesized portion of the title is sometimes misspelled on the web as "The Filla-Da-Gusha Song." But that's NOT what she sings! Rosie The Riveter -- The Four Vagabonds
[1943] Rosie the Riveter is one of the greatest icons of the 20th century. She represented the American women who worked in factories during World War II, many of whom produced munitions and war supplies. These women sometimes took entirely new jobs replacing the male workers who were in the military. Rosie the Riveter is commonly used as a symbol of feminism and women's economic power. This recording honors her. Roulette -- Russ Conway
[from the themed set "piano virtuosity"]
[196?] Russ Conway, like Winifred Atwell, was a popular pianist who had many chart records in the United Kingdom. This was the second of two consecutive chart-toppers there. Rub-A-Dubbin' -- Ken Mellons
[from the themed set "tubby time"]
[1995] A goofy country song, co-written by Becky Hobbs. Rubber Duckie -- Ernie (Jim Henson)
[from the themed set "tubby time"]
[1970] This incredible Muppet man died so tragically at the age of 53. He was the voice of both Ernie and Kermit the Frog. Run For The Roses -- Dan Fogelberg
[from the themed set "congratulations to kentucky derby winner mine that bird!"]
[1982] The late singer-songwriter wrote this touching song dedicated to the Kentucky Derby. Surely one of the best compositions in his legacy. Sad Songs (Say So Much) -- Elton John
[from the themed set "sad songs say so much"]
[1984] Most of my adds of late have fallen into the novelty and/or off-the wall variety. So you might consider this themed set an attempt to balance things out a bit.
Elton's 1984 hit provides a perfect title for the set and a wonderful opener.
Sadie's Shawl -- Bob Sharples
[1956] One of my favorites from the golden days when instrumentals were so popular. Sailor (Your Home Is The Sea) -- Lolita
[1960] She was born Edith "Ditta" Zusa Einzinger in St. Poelten, Austria and was working as a kindergarten nurse when she was discovered on a radio program and began recording in 1957. She changed her professional name to Lolita and the world became aware of her in 1960 when this recording in German became a U.S. and international hit. It peaked at #5 on the Billboard Hot 100 and has remained one of the most memorable and loved foreign hits of the rock era.
Sadly Lolita passed away from cancer on June 30. She was 79.
The English-language portion that you hear was not a part of the original recording and it was not a literal translation of what Lolita was singing. But it was close enough and nobody really cared about the accuracy. Sam's Song -- Gary Crosby and Friend
[from the themed set "now who could his friend possibly be?"]
[1950] This was the "B" side of Decca 27112, a two-sided smash. This side peaked at #3. The billing on the label is the way I've listed it here. I don't know anything about the owner of this song but I assume he was a real person. San Antonio Stroll -- Tanya Tucker
[from the themed set "country girls rule!"]
[1975] Chronologically this was the earliest-released of the six records in this themed set.

Tanya has been represnted here with the ballad "Spring" and here she shows another side of her talent on this uptempo track, which reached #1 on the country chart. Santa's Stuck Up In The Chimney -- Paul Evans
[2007] This fabulous Christmas novelty by Paul is deservedly a You Tube sensation!
Push! Tug! Pull! Shove! Enjoy!
And when you're finished listening, please watch it on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=557tQC86thA
And after watching it on YouTube, please check out my "Small Talk" page for my brief fun interview with Paul in which he gives us the lowdown behind this recording! Sarah Jackman -- Allan Sherman (with Christine Nelson)
[from the themed set "an allan sherman quadruple play"]
[1962] From the album "My Son The Folk Singer." This is a parody of "Frere Jacques." Christine, who plays the part of Sarah, went on to record her own album called "Did'ja Come To Play Cards Or To Talk." Saturday Morning Confusion -- Bobby Russell
[from the themed set "a trio by songwriter bobby"]
[1971] This was Bobby's most-successful recording as an artist, peaking at #28. Probably the most memorable thing about this record 38 years later is "Harry the Dog," who should've been named Harriet! School Bells Are Ringing -- Carole King
[1962] Carole's recording of "Oh Neil" has been very popular on this page. This recording, her follow-up single to "It Might As Well Rain Until September," failed to duplicate that success. Nevertheless I feel this is a fine recording. I'm sure the #1 success of Little Eva's "The Loco-Motion," co-written with her husband Gerry Goffin, proved to be at least some consolation. School Day -- Chuck Berry
[from the themed set "did chuck really sue himself and win?"]
[1957] Chuck's infectious rocker (his biggest to date at the time) whose tune spawned the song below. It peaked at #3. Second Week Of Deer Camp -- Da Yoopers
[from the themed set "we go from yippers to yoopers!"]
[1987] Da Yoopers is a musical group from Ishpeming, Michigan, United States who are known primarily for their humorous songs and skits, most of which center around life in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. The band's name includes the term "Yooper," a popular slang for residents of Michigan's Upper Peninsula, or "U.P." The use of "da" instead of "the" is typical of Yooper dialect. Da Yoopers has released thirteen albums, all on their personal label, You Guys Records. This recording, probably their most famous one, has become a cult classic and is regularly featured on Dr. Demento's show. See Saw -- The Moonglows
[from the themed set "remembering music legend harvey fuqua"]
[1956] Harvey sang lead on this uptempo recording which peaked at #22 on the national chart. See You Later Linda -- Dickie Goodman
[196?] Dickie recorded a parody album of Allan Sherman's "My Son The Folk Singer," which he called "My Son The Joke." It was a gigantic flop. But a few songs from that album have attracted quite a following. The song is a little naughty and I intentionally silenced two brief portions of this sample because this is a family-oriented page! If you figure out what Dickie sang, please don't tell anyone! See You Later, Alligator -- Bill Haley and his Comets
[from the themed set "bobby charles wrote ..."]
[1956] Bobby may not have been a household name but he wrote three extremely successful hits, all of which are sampled here. Bobby was born Robert Charles Guidry in Abbeville, Louisiana and grew up listening to Cajun music and the country and western music of Hank Williams. At the age of 15, he heard a performance by Fats Domino, an event that he said "changed my life forever."
This was the first of his three big hits. Peaking at #6 on the chart, it became Bill Haley's most successful record following his legendary "Rock Around The Clock."
Sadly Bobby passed away on January 14, 2010, about a month shy of what would have been his 72nd birthday.
Note: although they are generally referred to as Bill Haley and THE Comets, the Decca pressings of their big hits said "Bill Haley and HIS Comets" and that's the billing I've chosen to use here. September Song -- Walter Huston
[from the themed set "nostalgia at its best"]
[194?] This wonderful stage and screen actor introduced this song in the Broadway musical "Knickerbocker Holiday" in 1944. Four years later he won the Best Supporting Actor Oscar for his role as an old miner in the film "The Treasure Of The Sierra Madre." Seven Little Girls (Sitting In The Back Seat) -- Paul Evans and the Curls
[from the themed set "14 little girls and 2 freds"]
[1959] This cute song was written by Lee Pockriss and Bob Hilliard and this recording was actually a demo with Merv Griffin as the intended recording artist!
The Curls were actually TWO girls: Sue Singleton and Sue Terry.
For the complete lowdown on Paul's accidental hit, check out this "Songfacts" page: http://www.songfacts.com/detail.php?id=7304 which includes the video of Paul's legendary appearance on a popular TV show with puppets little girls and a "Fred" who looked amazingly like Dick Clark! Seven Little Girls (Sitting In The Back Seat) -- The Avons
[from the themed set "14 little girls and 2 freds"]
[1959] The Avons were a British pop music vocal trio, consisting of sisters Valerie and Elaine Murtagh and Raymond S. Adams. This cover version of the Paul Evans record became a big hit in England. Shaggy Dog -- Mickey Lee Lane
[from the themed set "rainin' cats and dogs"]
[1964] I was going to tell you that I know nothing about Mickey other than the fact that he was born in Rochester, NY in 1945 and recorded this dumb song. However I came upon a comprehensive page about the guy. If you're interested you can check it out: http://www.blackcat.nl/references/messages/mickey_lee_lane.htm.
Meanwhile you can click this title and enjoy some rock and roll goofyness. Shannon -- Henry Gross
[from the themed set "two shannons"]
[1976] Henry was a former member of Sha Na Na when he recorded this touching song, which he wrote about the passing of Beach Boy Carl Wilson's Irish Setter of the same name. Sh-Boom -- Stan Freberg
[from the themed set "to honor clay cole's fabulous new book, we proudly present "the three sh-booms"!"]
[1954] Note: please check out the Chords' version for my comment about Clay's new book.
Leave it to Stan to come up with the DEFINITIVE version of "Sh-Boom"! (LOL). It features the Toads backed up by Billy May's Orchestra. This was the least commercially-successful of the three, only reaching #14 on the chart. However it does contain certain elements that the Chords and Crew-Cuts records are lacking! Sh-Boom -- The Chords
[from the themed set "to honor clay cole's fabulous new book, we proudly present "the three sh-booms"!"]
[1954] The Jersey Girls, Denise and Bernadette, and I are absolutely brimming with joy that our friend Clay Cole's long-awaited book,"Sh-Boom! The Explosion of Rock 'N' Roll," is finally available for all the world to enjoy and treasure.
As it says on the back cover: "Clay Cole's SH-BOOM! is the pop culture chronicle of that exciting time, 1953-1968, when teenagers created their own music, from swing bands and pop to rhythm and blues, cover records, a cappella, rockabilly, folk-rock, and girl groups: from the British Invasion to the creation of the American Boy Band. He was first to introduce Chubby Checker performing the "Twist;" the first to present the Rolling Stones, Tony Orlando, Dionne Warwick, Neil Diamond, Bobby Vinton, the Rascals, Ronettes, Four Seasons, Dion and dozens more; the first to introduce music video clips, discotheque, go-go girls and young unknown standup comedians Richard Pryor, George Carlin, and Fannie Flagg to a teenage television audience."
The book takes its title from the song that many people consider to be the first #1 rock and roll song ever.
I can think of no better way to celebrate than to honor Clay by presenting here the three best-known versions of that legendary song, leading off with the group who wrote it and released the first version of it.
The Chords were an R&B quintet from the Bronx, New York consisting of lead singer Carl Feaster, Claude Feaster, James Keyes, Floyd F. McRae and James Edwa. This single reached #5 on the pop chart, an amazing accomplishment for an R&B record; it was even more amazing considering the incredible success of the Crew-Cuts' version listed immediately below. Sh-Boom -- The Crew-Cuts
[from the themed set "to honor clay cole's fabulous new book, we proudly present "the three sh-booms"!"]
[1954] Note: please check out the Chords' version for my comment about Clay's new book.
The Crew-Cuts, a quartet from Toronto, Canada consisted of Rudi Maugeri, Pat Barrett, Roy Perkins and Johnny Perkins. This version of the song was #1 on the pop chart for nine weeks and was by far their biggest hit ever. She's In Love With The Boy -- Trisha Yearwood
[from the themed set "boy crazy"]
[1991] What better way to launch a country music career than to hit #1 with your very first recording? That's exactly what Trisha did with this single. The song, written by Jon Sims, reportedly was originally intended for and offered to Kenny Rogers; reportedly he liked it but turned it down saying that he didn't feel it was right for him because it didn't match his style; he told a reporter "I didn't feel comfortable singing about chickens pecking the ground."
Kenny's turndown was Trisha's big opportunity. She truly made this song her own. It is a wonderful feel-good song (at least at the end) and one that sounds as vibrant today as when it first came out. She's Like The Wind -- Patrick Swayze (featuring Wendy Fraser)
[1988] Patrick brought us so much joy from his art and he inspired us with his courage and determination when stricken with the terminal illness that would eventually take his life. Forever a fighter, he worked up until close to the very end. His two most popular movies were "Dirty Dancing" and "Ghost." This song was from the former movie, which starred him and Jennifer Gray. It peaked at #3 on the Billboard Hot 100. She's My Girl -- Tom Lehrer
[from the themed set "tomfoolery"]
[1959] Please see the blurb for "The Hunting Song" for detailed information about Tom.
This was from Tom's second album "More Of Tom Lehrer" which came out six years after his first one. This is not your usual love song! Shiddle-Ee-Dee -- Clint Holmes
[from the themed set "what were they thinking? (questionable follow-ups to huge hits)"]
[1973] Follow-up to "Playground In My Mind." With a title like "Shiddle-Ee-Dee," how could this record possibly miss? (Easily!!!) Shim Sham Shuffle -- Ricky Lyons
[1960] Chuck Berry is legendary for recycling his own melodies but he is surely not the only one who has done so. Case in point: this song recorded by Ricky, an R&B singer, which Bubbled Under the Billboard Hot 100 peaking at #104. It was written by Tommy Boyce and Steve Venet.
Fast forward to 1965. Tommy and Steve heard that Dick Clark was looking for a theme song for an on-location TV series he was planning to produce and host called "Where The Action Is." In a happy moment of inspiration, the two songwriters decided to put new lyrics to "Shim Sham Shuffle" and give it a new title: "Action."
Freddy Cannon recorded it and the rest is history. Shimmy Like Kate -- The Olympics
[from the themed set "three goodies by this gold-medal group"]
[1960] This song was written in the early 20s by Clarence Williams and Armand Piron. The original title was "I Wish I Could Shimmy Like My Sister Kate." I originally thought that the Olympics were singing "bulletproof, bulletproof, shimmy shimmy" but subsequently decided that didn't make much sense! Short Fat Fannie -- Larry Williams
[from the themed set "50's hits that mention other 50's hits"]
[1957] As we all know, Larry left Fannie for "Bony Moronie"! The Beatles recorded two of his compositions: "Slow Down" and "Bad Boy." Shticks And Stones -- Allan Sherman
[1962] This is a two-minute edited version of the final cut on Side 2 of Allan's legendary LP "My Son, The Folk Singer." (The original track runs 5:35.) He and Weird Al Yankovic (please check out "Bob" on this page) are arguably the two most successful parody artists of the rock era. Expect more of each on this page in the days ahead. Side By Side -- Kay Starr
[1953] A simple, happy-go-lucky song, which was one of the most popular ones of the early 50s. Side Saddle -- Russ Conway
[from the themed set "piano virtuosity"]
[196?] Russ Conway, like Winifred Atwell, was a popular pianist who had many chart records in the United Kingdom. This was the first of two consecutive chart-toppers there. Silly Dilly Millie -- Ray Sharpe
[from the themed set "millie and willie"]
[199?] A cool 90's rockabilly recording by the artist best known for his hit single "Linda Lu." 16 Candles -- The Crests
[from the themed set "heaven's latest golden angel"]
[1958] Too many people, in my opinion, judge the overall worth of a recording artist by his or her commercial success. I submit that although it is a valid as part of the equation so to speak, in many if not most cases it does not adequately do an artist justice.
Johnny Maestro is a case in point.
He had a significant amount of commercial success as lead singer of the Crests, as a solo artist and as lead singer of Brooklyn Bridge. But his impact on rock and roll, doo wop and pop music over his fifty-plus years as a recording artist and an entertainment goes much deeper than that.
I can't think of enough superlatives to describe what this man and his music meant, not only to those who knew him personally but also to the millions (such as myself) who never communicated directly with him but loved him and his music so much.
The Jersey Girls and myself have created a special tribute page to Johnny. The address is http://www.jerseygirlssing.com/JohnnyMaestroTribute.html.
Three of the five samples here are shortened versions of recordings by Johnny. You can hear all five in their entirety, plus four others, on our special tribute page. You can also find more information about him on our Daily News page.
This recording by the Crests was Johnny's biggest commercial success. It spent two weeks at #2 on the national chart. There are some who consider it the greatest doowop recording ever. Sixteen Pounds -- Patsy Montana
[from the themed set "answer records"]
[1956] Answer record to Tennessee Ernie Ford's "Sixteen Tons." Patsy was a legendary country music singer-songwriter and the first female music performer to sell one million records, which she did with her 1935 release "I Want To Be A Cowboy's Sweetheart." Skin Diver, The -- P. Harcourt Frees
[1959] The artist is actually Paul Frees, whose recording of "I'm Professor Ludwig Von Drake" was very popular on our chart during the first few weeks of this Record Page. He recorded this novelty for Cascade Records. Paul was a man of many voices and doesn't sound much like Ludwig on this ditty. The tune reminds me a bit of "Sink The Bismarck," which is appropriate considering that this recording also has a watery connection. Slaughter On Tenth Avenue -- The Ventures
[from the themed set "in memory of the fabulous bob bogle"]
[1964] See the "Lullaby Of The Leaves" blurb for information about Bob and this group. This song was written by Richard Rodgers in 1936 as part of a ballet with music. Slippin' And Slidin' -- Little Richard
[from the themed set "three lesser-known goodies by mr. penniman"]
[1956] This is indeed a FABULOUS FLIP. And it did get to #33 on the national chart. It's "lesser-known" by virtue of the fact that it was the "B" side of "Long Tall Sally," Richard's most successful recording. Slow Talker -- Bob and Ray
[1970] Bob (Elliott) and Ray (Goulding) were an American comedy team whose career spanned five decades. In many of their routines they made fun of the medium in which they were performing, such as conducting radio or television interviews with off-the-wall dialogue presented in a generally deadpan style as though it were SERIOUS. This routine is among their most famous routines of that type and many consider it their best. It is from a recording of their 1970 Broadway show entitled "The Two and Only."
Bob is now in his late 80s. Ray, the brother of well-known WMGM-NYC announcer Phil Goulding, passed away in 1990.
Someone To Watch Over Me -- Peggy King
[2007] My interview show with Peggy was one of only two that I've done face-to-face (as opposed to by phone) over the past couple of years. (The other one was with the Doughboys).
Peggy, who was a regular on the George Gobel Show for three seasons in the mid-60s and is one of the most respected singers in the business, honored me by closing the show with this live (in-studio) performance of this wonderful George Gershwin standard. Her voice remains incredible. Something's Gotta Give -- The McGuire Sisters
[from the themed set "50's sisters, real and imaginary"]
[1955] Originally from Middletown, Ohio, the sisters are Phyllis, Christine and Dorothy. Johnny Mercer, who co-wrote most of his other well-known songs, wrote this one by himself; it was from the movie "Daddy Long Legs," which starred Fred Astaire. Sometimes When We Touch -- Dan Hill
[from the themed set "hills and valleys"]
[1977] This is one of the most poignant love songs every written and the credits go to Dan, who wrote the lyrics and Barry Mann, who wrote the music. Dan, from Toronto, Ontario, Canada, took this to #3 on the Billboard Hot 100. Song Of The Barefoot Mailman -- Billy Leach
[1957] The term "barefoot mailman" refers to the carriers on the first U.S. Mail route between Palm Beach and the settlements around the body of water known as Lake Worth on the north and Miami, Cocoanut Grove, and Lemon City on the south. It came about in 1885. As there was no road at the time connecting Palm Beach and Miami to each other (or to anywhere else, for that matter), the carrier traveled by boat and by walking along the beach. The mail carriers walked the beach barefooted to take advantage of the firmer sand along the water's edge. Song Of The Sewer -- Art Carney
[1954] "Honeymooners Rap," featuring Eddie Murphy as Ed Norton (with Joe Piscopo as Ralph Kramden), was the first #1 on this page's popularity chart and has always been in the top ten. "The Honeymooners" is my personal favorite sitcom. It starred Jackie Gleason as bus driver Ralph Kramden and Art Carney as sewer worker Ed Norton, his best friend. This record, which made the Cash Box chart, is a watery winner. Everybody sing along! Sonny Boy -- Al Jolson
[1928] Incomparable. South -- Roger Miller
[from the themed set "miller time"]
[196?] What famous pop and country singer is mentioned in this record? Hint: think of the title! Souvenirs -- Barbara Evans
[1959] Okay, Barbara isn't a girl group. But this sure has a girl group sound! I've heard this dozens of times and I know that I will never tire of it. Incidentally, this fabulous song was written by the late Cy Coben, who also wrote Janie Grant's "That Greasy Kid Stuff." Sadly Barbara Evans passed away in April, 2000. Space Girl -- The Earth Boys
[from the themed set "space girls"]
[1958] It sure seems like 1958 was a great year for space girl records! This one and the next two are from that year.
The Earth Boys were Jack Marshall and Paul Frees: yes, Paul is the guy who also did the Ludwig Von Drake record that's been here since the creation of this Page and also recorded the recently-added "The Skin Diver" using the name P. Harcourt Frees. I don't know much else about this recording except that it was done on Planet Earth, specifically in California, USA. Spanish Eyes -- Al Martino
[from the themed set "three favorites by a beloved singer-entertainer"]
[1965] Though other recordings charted higher, many consider this gem to be Al's signature song. It peaked at #15 on the Billboard Hot 100. Spanish Flea -- Kathy Kirby
[1966] Kathy was one of the most popular British female vocalists of the 60s and, according to some reports, the highest paid. Spectrum Song, The -- Paul Frees
[1961] Paul has been well-represented (and very popular) on this Page in various forms. He's one-half of the Earth Boys who perform "Space Girl." He's "P. Harcourt Frees" performing "The Skin Diver." And he's Paul Frees as Ludwig Von Drake in "I'm Professor Ludvig Von Drake."
Now Paul encores as the good professor with one of his most popular songs. The character was first introduced by him on September 24, 1961, as the singer of "The Spectrum Song" in the cartoon "An Adventure in Color," part of the first show of "Walt Disney's Wonderful World of Color" on NBC.
Okay, everybody sing along. It's real easy!
"Red, yellow, green, red, blue blue blue
Red, purple, green, yellow, orange, red red
Red, yellow, green, red, blue blue blue."
Etc. Splish Splash -- Bobby Darin
[from the themed set "50's hits that mention other 50's hits"]
[1958] This was Bobby's first hit single and it hit #3 on the pop chart. It also spent two weeks at #1 on the R&B chart. Want more? It spent three weeks on the COUNTRY chart, peaking at #14! Spring -- Clay Hart
[from the themed set "two versions of a poignant song"]
[1969] This is the original hit version of the song, which came out six years prior to Tanya's version. Clay, originally from Providence, Rhode Island, worked as an engineer in studios in Tampa, Florida and was a regular on the Lawrence Welk TV series from 1968 through 1973. Spring -- Tanya Tucker
[from the themed set "two versions of a poignant song"]
[1975] This touching recording only got to #18 on the country chart, not one of her biggest hits. But there was a good reason for that.
Tanya had her first eight charted records on Columbia and then, in 1975, switched to MCA. Her first release on her new label, "Lizzie And The Rainman," hit #1 on the country chart and was her only national top forty pop hit (#37). During its run, her old label Columbia decided to release "Spring" but for various reasons did not give it the promotional push that they would have had she still been with them.
The song was written by John Lewis Tipton.
Standing In A Trashcan (Thinking Of You) -- The Legendary Stardust Cowboy
[196?] Words fail me. Stashu Pandowski -- Julius LaRosa
[from the themed set "two gems by Julie"]
[195?] Ask me now no questions and I tell you now no lies. Stayin' Alive -- Darlene Edwards
[from the themed set "mrs. miller vs. mrs. edwards"]
[1979] I'm using "Record Page license" in billing this as a record by Darlene Edwards because it was actually a "Jonathan and Darlene Edwards" recording. But let's face it, for all intents and purposes, it's pretty much all Darlene!
In this case of this singer, I can tell you that she indeed COULD sing and, in fact, became one of the most popular female vocalists of all time. Of course she accomplished that as JO STAFFORD!
"Jonathan Edwards" was her husband Paul Weston. They recorded several albums as "Jonathan and Darlene Edwards." On most of the songs on those albums, Darlene was just "slightly" off, with hilarious results. However on this version of "Stayin' Alive," Jo (uh, Darlene) threw all sublety to the wind! This came out two years after the Bee Gees' #1 version.
I am chuckling knowing that, assuming that these appear on the chart in positions 21 through 100, newcomes to the Page might click on either (expecting Petula Clark of the Bee Gees) and get quite a shock!
Anyway, in this mythical battle, I now present contender #2: Mrs. Darlene Edwards! Stein Song -- Rudy Vallee
[from the themed set "hills and valleys"]
[1930] Okay, so Rudy was never a "Valley." But I say it's close enough, particularly since I absolutely love this recording!
Even before Rudy sings a note, the horns put on quite a show. It's a wonderful "opening act"!
This was the legendary singer-bandleader's most successful record ever, spending 10 weeks at #1 on the chart. The song originated in 1901 as an instrumental march and was based on one of Brahms's Hungarian dances. It was rewritten in 1910 by Lincoln Colcord (lyrics) and E. A. Fenstad (music).
Rudy attended the University of Maine from 1921 to 1922 before transferring to Yale. The song was adopted by the University Of Maine as their official "fight" song and Rudy's popularity made this song a huge hit.
To this day, "Stein Song" remains the only college "fight" song to ever reach number one on the pop chart. Stewball -- Lonnie Donegan
[from the themed set "congratulations to kentucky derby winner mine that bird!"]
[1956] Maybe Stewball was no Seabiscuit but this horse achieved more fame musically! Peter, Paul and Mary and the Coasters are two recording acts besides Lonnie who immortalized Stewball in song. Stormy Weather -- Lena Horne
[from the themed set "lena!"]
[1943] There aren't enough superlatives to adequately describe this marvelous lady who recently passed away at the age of 92. For openers she was a "singer's singer." But she was much more than that. She was also an actress, a dancer and a civil rights activist. She was truly a pioneer who helped break the color barrier in Hollywood and one of the first African-American entertainers to gain significant name recognition in the business.
There is a multitude of information about her on the web. We'll shortly have information about her on our Daily News page. For here I'll restrict my comments to what I've already stated and suggest that you enjoy the three representative samples of her music presented here.
"Stormy Weather" became one of several "signature songs" that the great Lena had. Submarine Race Watching -- The Escorts
[1962] She was born Genyusha Zelkowitz in Poland and eventually moved to America at the age of 9. Upon arrival in this country, her mother changed her daughter's first name to Goldie. Her first group was the Escorts, whom you can listen to here (with Goldie on lead) doing a song about an "activity" popularized by Murray the K and also by his Dancing Girls, the Delicates in their "Submarine Race Watchers Theme" which they wrote and sang.
After the Escorts broke up, Goldie founded the groundbreaking all-female rock group Goldie and the Gingerbreads. During a temporary breakup of the Gingerbreads, she recorded a single as Patsy Cole.
When Goldie and the Gingerbreads disbanded for good in 1968, Goldie changed her professional name to Genya Ravan and became the lead singer of a new rock band called Ten Wheel Drive.
This recording is one that she did for Coral records with her first group, the Escorts. She was Goldie back then and she is on lead here doing a song about the activity popularized by Murray the K and also by his "Dancing Girls," the Delicates, who wrote and sang his legendary "Submarine Race Watchers Theme." I am almost certain that it inspired this recording. Such A Night -- Vince Everett
[from the themed set "elvis sound-alikes and wannabees"]
[1962] This guy is an incredible Elvis sound-alike. His real name is really Marvin Benefield and he recorded for ABC-Paramount from 1962 to 1965. He chose the stage name "Vince Everett" because that was the name of the singer portrayed by Elvis in "Jailhouse Rock." On this recording, Vince uses an identical arrangement and vocal approach to the song and even has vocal backing that sounds just like the Jordanaires. Summer All Year Round -- Miss Frankie Nolan
[1961] Bob Crewe produced this single which received lots of airplay in New York City and other places but didn't chart nationally. Still I've always liked this miss's recording. Summer Sounds -- Robert Goulet
[from the themed set "more happy summer songs"]
[1965] This is my personal favorite record by this artist. It peaked at #58 and, to my way of thinking, should have done much better. Summertime Guy -- Eddie Rambeau
[1962] Chuck Barris created the "Newlywed Game" and, later, "The Gong Show," which he hosted. This song, instrumentally, was the theme song of the former show. Eddie's rendition has much of the same drive as Freddy Cannon's "Palisades Park," which Chuck also wrote. Summertime, Summertime -- The Jamies
[1958] This Epic release became a #26 hit when first released in 1958. Four years later it was re-released and reached #38. The Jamies consisted of lead singer Serena Jameson, her brother Tom Jameson, Jeannie Ray and Arthur Blair. 51 years after its initial release, it remans one of the most popular summertime records. Sunflower -- Russ Morgan
[from the themed set "hello, lawyer!"]
[1949] This recording was the flipside of Russ's smash hit (#1 for 7 weeks) called "Cruisin' Down The River"; "Sunflower" did very well on its own, peaking at #5. The tune, written by Mack David, became the state song of Kansas.
However it achieved its greatest fame (or notoreity, if you will) by being the subject of a lawsuit filed by Mack against Jerry Herman, the writer of that OTHER tune in this themed set. Please see the "Hello Dolly" blurb for the juicy details. Superbowl Shuffle -- The Chicago Bears Shufflin' Crew
[1986] This record features ten members of "Da Bears."
In order they are Walter Payton, Willie Gault, Mike Singletary, Jim McMahon, Otis Wilson, Steve Fuller, Mike ichardson, Richard Dent, Gary Fencik and William "Refrigerator" Perry.
The record made the Billboard Hot 100 in the issue dated January 11. Fifteen days later, on January 26, "Da Bears" demolished the New England Patriots in Super Bowl XX by a score of 46-10.
The only downer is this. If we assume that making the Top 40 (and thus getting played by Casey Kasem on "American Top 40") would have been a "touchdown," then (sadly) the crew got stopped at the one-yard line, peaking at #41 during their impessive nine-week chart run.
And if they chose to call it "Superbowl Shuffle" instead of "Super Bowl Shuffle" ... well they earned the right to do that! Surfin' Hootenanny -- Al Casey
[from the themed set "it's hootenanny time!"]
[1963] I remember very well that while working at radio station WICY in Malone, NY (as mentioned in my blurb for the Glencoves recor above) that I received a promotional copy of this single on red vinyl! So right off the bat I thought it was pretty special. Al, who passed away not too long ago, pays tribute to his guitar heroes, namely Dick Dale and the Ventures and Duane Eddy. Susie-Q -- Dale Hawkins
[from the themed set "in memory of a rockabilly great"]
[1957] Dale was a pioneer American rockabilly singer, songwriter, and rhythm guitarist who has often been called the creator of "swamp rock boogie." He was the first cousin of Ronnie Hawkins.
This recording was specifically honored by the Rock and Roll Hall Of Fame. It's too bad that the decision maker(s) didn't choose to honor Dale himself as an inductee during his lifetime. The recording peaked at #27 on the national chart and hung around for 19 weeks.
Dale passed away on February 13 after a four-year battle with cancer. He was 73. Suspicion -- Terry Stafford
[from the themed set "elvis sound-alikes and wannabees"]
[1964] Elvis first recorded this song written by Doc Pomus and Mort Shuman in 1962. Terry remade it two years later. Chartwise, this was the most successful of the Elvis sound-alike hits, peaking at #3. Terry appeared in the movie "Wild Wheels" and went on to have a successful country music career.
He died in 1996 at the age of 54. Swanee River Rocket -- Jimmy Elledge
[1961] I like this version of "Old Folks At Home" much better than that other version on this page, which happened to come out just around the same time. Jimmy's subsequent release, "Funny How Time Slips Away," became a top 40 hit for him. Ain't it funny that this boogie-woogie blockbuster never became a bona fide hit as well? Sweet Soul Music -- Arthur Conley
[from the themed set "evolution of a major hit"]
[1967] From the "Arthur Conley Home Page Jotis Records Sweet Soul Music":
In a June 1995 interview on the origins of "Sweet Soul Music," Arthur Conley said, "Sam Cooke was a great inspiration for me. I bought all his albums. And 'Yeah Man' was on his "Shake" album. When I met Otis Redding, I told him I'd like to record 'Yeah Man.' Otis liked it very much as well. So he got on guitar with me and said, Let's change it like so, and we came up with 'spotlight on the artist' and all those kinds of things. But it was originally Sam Cooke. My idea was just to record 'Yeah Man.' But Otis changed it around and retitled it 'Sweet Soul Music.'"
"Sweet Soul Music" paid tribute to Sam and Dave, Wilson Pickett, James Brown and Lou Rawls. Otis Redding's name was added to the list at Conley's suggestion. In fact, Conley received composer credit on the record for that contribution alone [along with Redding]. But Sam Cooke, the song's true author, was not mentioned in the lyrics or credited as composer, a glaring injustice remedied only after complaints from Kags music chief J.W. Alexander, composer of "Let's Go Steady," the non-LP 'B' side of "Sweet Soul Music."
Footnote: all three writers of "Sweet Soul Music" are deceased. Sam was shot to death in 1965. Otis died in a plane at the end of 1967 (the same year that the record was a hit). Arthur died of cancer in 2003; he never achieved the bright "spotlight" that the other two did but he will always fondly be remember for this wonderful recording. Swinging On A Star -- Bing Crosby
[from the themed set "40's best song oscar winners"]
[1944] 1944 Best Song Oscar winner, from "Going My Way": music by James Van Heusen, lyrics by Johnny Burke. Bing won the Best Actor Oscar for his role in the film as Father Chuck O'Malley, a happy-go-lucky priest. This was a #1 hit for Bing. Take Me Out To The Ball Game -- The Andrews Sisters with Dan Dailey
[from the themed set "our national pastime"]
[1949] A rollicking version of the best-known song about our national pastime. Take My Wife, Please! -- Henny Youngman
[1978] Henny was a British-born comedian famous for his one-liners: his best-known one is the title of this track from an album called "Take My Record, Please!". Henny claimed that his legendary "wife" line came about accidentally. In the mid-1930s he took his wife to a show and asked the usher to escort her to a seat. But when the usher took his request as a joke, Henny decided that others might find it funny as well. Henny was right and the rest is history.
A typical stage performance by Henny lasted only fifteen to twenty minutes but it contained dozens of jokes, spouted in rapid-fire fashion. Sometimes he would be playing the violin while telling them. Milton Berle, his close friend, once quipped "the only thing funnier than Henny's jokes is his violin playing."
Here's an interesting bit of trivia. When the New York Telephone Company started its Dial-A-Joke line in 1974, over three million people called in one month to hear 30 seconds of Henny's material: the most ever for a comedian.
Henny passed away in 1998 at the age of 92. Tale Of The Ticker, A -- Frank Crumit
[1929] Frank was a popular singer and songwriter who appeared in several 1920's Broadway musicals and hosted a radio show with his wife Julia Sanderson from 1929 until his death in 1943.
He had a string of hit records from 1920 up until releasing this recording. I'm not sure whether negative feedback related to it contributed to his subsequent lack of chart success.
I'm also not sure whether or not Frank had a gut feeling that Wall Street would in fact "lay an egg" (as reported in Variety Magazine) one month later on "Black Tuesday," October 29, 1929 or the exact date when this recording was released. Could people laugh at this record during the time frame when the financial catastrophe was occuring?
What is certain is that Frank didn't have any more hits after 1929, though he did have the successful radio show mentioned above.
Over the years Dr. Demento played this record many times on his popular syndicated radio show. Talkin' Baseball (Willie, Mickey And The Duke) -- Terry Cashman
[from the themed set "our national pastime"]
[1981] Terry recorded this song in the year of a baseball strike which began on June 12 and forced the cancellation of 38 percent of the Major League schedule in the middle of the regular season. Though largely ignored by Top 40 radio, it has over the years become a cult classic. Terry has recorded many different versions of the song. This is a sample of his original recording. Tchaikovsky -- Danny Kaye
[from the themed set "life is a list"]
[1941] Danny performed this show-stopping number in the hit Broadway comedy "Lady in the Dark." It was written by Kurt Weill and Ira Gershwin. Danny sings the names of a whole string of Russian composers at breakneck speed, seemingly without taking a breath. (I wonder if some of those composers are imaginary!) Danny's "motor-mouth" bit begins about a minute and 40 seconds into this sample. Teach Me Tonight -- The DeCastro Sisters
[from the themed set "some called them the "latin andrews sisters""]
[1954] The sisters, Cherie, Peggy and Babette, were a vocal trio from Cuba and they were proteges of Carmen Miranda. They hit the big time with this recording, which reached #2 on the national chart in 1954. The song, with music by Gene De Paul and lyrics by Sammy Cahn, has become a standard recorded by many recording artists over the years. But it's this version that is by far the most remembered.
Cherie, the last surviving member of the trio, passed away on March 14 at the age of 87. She had been preceeded in death by Babette (1992) and Peggy (1994).
You may recall that Cherie sang "Teach Me Tonight" on the 2006 PBS special, "Moments To Remember: My Music", which is still periodically shown and is out on DVD. Cherie continued to perform until shortly before her illness and sang "Teach Me Tonight" on the 2006 PBS special, "Moments To Remember: My Music", which is still periodically shown and is out on DVD. She was the only sister to appear on every recording, film, TV and stage appearance by the trio. Tears In Heaven -- Eric Clapton
[from the themed set "sad songs say so much"]
[1991] Eric wrote this song for his 4-year-old son Conor, who tragically fell to his death on March 20, 1991. The record won Grammys for Record Of The Year, Song Of The Year and Pop Male Vocal. Teen Beat -- Sandy Nelson
[from the themed set "dum dum and drummer"]
[1959] Sandy Nelson is one of the top session drummers and also had a handful of hits on his own. This was his first and biggest. Teenage Hayride -- Tender Slim
[from the themed set "in memory of teddy vann"]
[1960] I'm not sure where the name "Tender Slim" came from. But I can tell you that this very catchy instrumental was a studio project produced by Teddy. It could have easily been sub-titled "Pop Goes The Weasal Meets Three Blind Mice"! Ten Thousand Drums -- Carl Smith
[from the themed set "remembering a country music great"]
[1959] This is the recording that most pop music fans remember Carl for. On the heels of the crossover success of Johnny Horton's "The Battle Of New Orleans" and Stonewall Jackson's "Waterloo," Carl cut this similar-sounding record and it reached #43 on the pop chart and #5 on the the country chart.
Despite its title there were not quite that many drums used on this session! Tennessee Bird Walk -- Jack Blanchard and Misty Morgan
[from the themed set "the tennessee walks"]
[1970] Jack and Misty were husband and wife. Both of them were born in Buffalo and, interestingly, they met and married while working in Florida. On this song, it's our fine feathered friends who are doing the "walking"! Tennessee Waltz, The -- Patti Page
[from the themed set "patti vs. spike"]
[1950] Patti's biggest record ever, #1 for 13 straight weeks. Gorgeous. Tennessee Waltz, The -- Spike Jones and his City Slickers
[from the themed set "patti vs. spike"]
[1950] The vocals on this are by Sara Berner and Sir Frederick Gas. Not quite as gorgeous as Patti's interpretation. Tennessee Wig Walk -- Bonnie Lou
[from the themed set "the tennessee walks"]
[1953] Bonnie, a country and rock and roll singer, made it to #6 on the country chart with this recording. Like many songs about dances, the lyrics provide simple instructions as to how to do it! A couple of years later her version of "Daddy-O" peaked at #14 on the pop chart, doing almost as well as the Fontane Sisters' version.
Teterboro Tower -- Arthur Godfrey
[from the themed set "arthur vs. julius"]
[195?] Arthur Godfrey was one of the most popular broadcasters and entertainers of all time and also one of the most controversial. There's plenty of material on the Internet about him.
Arthur was also an airline pilot. In January 1954 he buzzed the control tower of Teterboro Airport in his DC-3 which of course is a "no-no"! He stated that windy conditions that day made it necessary for him to turn immediately after takeoff but several reports state that he, in fact, was annoyed at the tower personnel because they refused to allow him to use the runway he requested. His license was suspended for six months. Unrepentent, Arthur wrote and recorded this song inspired by the incident. If the tune sounds familiar, it certainly should: it's a note-for-note copy of the legendary country tune "Wabash Cannonball." (Didn't Chuck Berry also appropriate the tune for his hit "Promised Land"?)
A visitor named Jack requested this recording and I am happy to be oblige.
The Teterboro incident simply added to the controversy surrounding Arthur Godfrey.
One year earlier he had fired Julius LaRosa on the air. With that in mind, let's get ready to rumble! (Please check out the recording below.) Thanks For The Memory -- Bob Hope and Shirley Ross
[1938] And thanks to Mike Riccio, the moderator of the renowned Oldies Board (http://www.oldiesboard.com) for suggesting that I add this recording as the 500th one on this Page.
I feel it's a most appropriate choice because, after all, every record no matter what its contents is indeed a memory. And what better way to celebrate number 500 than with possibly the most classic "memory" song of all time!
Ralph Rainger wrote the music and Leo Robin wrote the words. It was introduced in the 1938 movie "The Big Broadcast of 1938" by Shep Fields and His Orchestra with vocals by Bob and Shirley.
In the movie, Bob and Shirley play a couple who were married briefly and then divorced. Then, after other unsuccessful marriages, they meet and reminisce about the good times of their failed relationship.
The song won the Academy Award for Best Original Song and became Bob's signature tune.
Over the years he and others performed the song with different lyrics to mark special occasions and there have probably been thousands of different versions of this song performed all over the world. That Happy Feeling -- Herb Oscar Anderson
[from the themed set "three by new york city's legendary "morning mayor""]
[2009] HOA went into his home studio a couple of weeks before we recorded our interview show and, backed by the Bert Kaempfert orchestra, he created this custom recording of "That Happy Feeling" especially for me and my listenership. This is a song that HOA used to sing frequently during his shows but, unlike the above two recordings, has not been available as a commercial record.
Being able to present this to the world, both on my show and here, truly gives ME a happy feeling and that's putting it mildly!
That's When My Woman Begins -- Tommy Overstreet
[from the themed set "two country hits with sound-alike choruses"]
[1975] Below there's a themed set with three pop hits that have choruses that share the same tune. Here we have an example of two country hits that do likewise. Tommy is an Oklahoma-born singer who had most of his hits in the 70s, including this one. There Ain't Nothin' Wrong With The Radio -- Aaron Tippin
[1992] A serious record? Partly. A silly record? Partly. A delightful record? Completely! This was a #1 hit by one of America's most-respected country singers. There Is A Boy -- Maureen Gray
[from the themed set "boy crazy"]
[1962] This song title sounds like it could be the answer to Diane Ray's question! Maureen, from Philadelphia, began singing at the age of three, and performed solo in a children’s program at Carnegie Hall at the age of five. Discovered by John Madara at the young age of 12, she went on to record and achieved success with several regional hits including this one. There Is A Tavern In The Town -- Wally Cox
[from the themed set "joel whitburn's choice for "worst record ever" and its flip side"]
[1953] Joel Whitburn insists that this record by the comic actor who was TV's "Mr. Peepers" is the worst record ever. You be the judge.
There She Is, Miss America -- Bert Parks
[from the themed set "there she was!"]
[195?] There no question that the Miss America Pageant, over the last few years, has lost a lot of its former luster. And, in my view, much of that may have begun with the sudden and unexpected firing of Bert Parks, who had emceed the Pageant from 1955 through 1979.
Probably relatively few people can remember the names of too many Miss Americas. But everybody remembers this signature song which Bert Parks sang, generally twice, at each of the Pageants.
Bert died in 1992. Though he had many other radio and TV credits, undoubtedly it is his rendition of this song that he will always be most remembered for. There's No Tomorrow -- Jimmy Nabors
[from the themed set "all the same tune"]
[1958] Shazam! Yes indeed, it's the informal name of the man who, as "Jim," would eventually become TV's "Gomer Pyle." It's certainly a very different rendering of what Tony Martin recorded in 1949. I wonder if this Nabors record may have inspired Conway Twitty to do his similar "slow then fast" version of "Danny Boy." (My guess is NO, because the Nabors record wasn't that well-known.) There's No Tomorrow -- Tony Martin
[from the themed set "all the same tune"]
[1949] This record based on "O Sole Mio" got to #2 in the chart. Eleven years later Elvis got one position higher with his take on the tune. This Is Monte -- The Big Loser (and Friends)
[1962] This record was as popular as Monte was with the girls. This Must Be The Place -- Ronnie Self
[1959] Murray used to constantly play the opening "la la la la la la" part of this record on his legendary "Swingin' Soiree" show on 1010-WINS in New York to remind people that "this must be the place" to be to enjoy what he was presenting each night. I don't believe he ever played the entire record but now you can listen to it here on demand!
As for Ronnie Self, he was a very talented rockabilly singer and songwriter. He wrote Brenda Lee's "Sweet Nothin's" and her #1 follow-up hit "I'm Sorry." Earlier he had his own hit called "Bop-A-Lena" in 1958 which got to #63 on the chart; that one was written by Mel Tillis and Webb Pierce. That was his biggest success as a solo artist. Sadly this gifted artist in August of 1981 at the age of 43. He's in the Rockabilly Hall Of Fame and, for more informatioon on him, you can check out the following webpage: http://www.rockabillyhall.com/RonnieSelf1.html. Those Lazy-Hazy-Crazy Days Of Summer -- Nat "King" Cole
[from the themed set "more happy summer songs"]
[1963] Such an uplifting summertime song! Little did we know when this was popular that this would turn out to be Nat's final top ten hit, peaking at #6. He passed away in February of 1965. The tempo of this tune is "crazy" rather than "lazy."
I was a deejay at WICY in Malone, NY when this popular and this was one of the most requested songs by my listeners. Three Gassed Rats -- The Handclappers
[from the themed set "the rodent trio graduates"]
[1961] I can't hear a single hand clap on this recording! The Delicates and family did the hand claps on Don Costa's "I Walk The Line." This record was a flop. Had the Delicates done their thing, this could have gone top ten! Three Stars -- Tommy Dee
[from the themed set "remembering ritchie, buddy and bopper"]
[1959] He was born Tommy Donaldson and was working at KFXM in San Bernadino, California when he wrote and recorded "Three Stars," a touching narrative tribute to Ritchie, Buddy and Bopper. It barely missed the national top ten, peaking at #11. The background vocalists are Carol Kay and the Teen-Aires.
This was Tommy's only chart record. He later worked as a producer, promoter and record company executive in Nashville. He passed away in 2007 at the age of 73. Tie Me Kangaroo Down, Sport -- Pat Boone
[from the themed set "kangarooney tunes"]
[1963] Okay, so he's not Rolf. But listen, would you rather hear Ol' White Bucks singing heavy metal? (I thought so.) Tie Me Kangaroo Down, Sport -- Rolf Harris
[from the themed set "kangarooney tunes"]
[1963] This singer originally from Perth, Australia, tickled funny bones in the summer of '63 with this inimitable recording. Who could possibly even TRY to duplicate it? For the answer, see the next listed record. (But please play this one first!) Tiger's Wide Awake, The -- The Romeos
[from the themed set "answer records"]
[1962] Answer record to the Tokens' "The Lion Sleeps Tonight." So would you rather have a lion eat you or a tiger? (Think about that and should come up with the right answer!) Tippy Toeing -- The Harden Trio
[1966] This country music trio was from England but not Great Britain! They were from England, Arkansas. They were Bobby Harden and his sisters Robbie and Arleen. They had a relatively short career, disbanding in 1968, but are fondly remembered for this catchy recording, a #2 country hit and a #44 pop hit. Daddy go and make a little money maybe! To The Door Of The Sun (Alle Porte Del Sole) -- Al Martino
[from the themed set "three favorites by a beloved singer-entertainer"]
[1975] This is a wonderful change-of-pace record and he handles it so effortlessly. Peaking at #17 it was his next-to-last top forty hit. The man's show business career lasted approximately 60 years and he was working up until his death. He truly left an incredible mark. Tongue Twisters -- Danny Kaye
[from the themed set "peter piper picked a peck of you know what"]
[194?] This man was unbelievable in so many ways. He does this so effortlessly! Tongue Twisters -- Looking Glass
[from the themed set "peter piper picked a peck of you know what"]
[19??] Pure bubblegum. Apparently these are not the same guys who recorded the #1 hit "Brandy (You're A Fine Girl)." Tonight You Belong To Me -- Patience and Prudence
[1956] One of the girls was 11 and one of the girls was 14 when they recorded this song. There are differing reports on the Internet as to which girl was younger so I'll leave it at that for now. Their father, Mark McIntyre, was an orchestra leader, pianist, and songwriter who accompanied Frank Sinatra on piano during the 1940s. He took them to Liberty Records. The girls made a demo of this song, which had been a hit for Gene Austin in 1927 and was written by Billy Rose and Lee David. Not only did Liberty sign them but they quickly released a recording of the girls singing the song as a commercial single. It reached #4 on the Billboard pop chart. The song got renewed attention when Steve Martin and Bernadette Peters sang it in the movie "The Jerk." Tony's Tank-Up, Drive-In Cafe -- Hank Thompson
[1980] Back in 1986 I emceed a show in New Egypt, NJ starring the great Hank Thompson. We had quite a few moments to chat backstage and I told Hank that I felt that this record, which was his final top 40 hit on the country chart, was "kind of a rock and roll record."
Hank shook his head, frowned for a few seconds, and said politely but firmly: "It's not rock and roll, it's Western Swing."
Well, he certainly would know and I surely would never argue with what he said because, well, he SAID it!
But to me this recording sounds more like a rock and roll record than, let's say, "Beth" by Kiss!
Well doesn't it?
Well, whatever it is, I love the record, and Mr. Thompson is one of the several legendary country music Hanks who is missed so much. Too Much Monkey Business -- Chuck Berry
[from the themed set "chuck's monkey business"]
[1959] This was the "A" side of a great but somewhat overlooked Chuck Berry recording. The "B" side was "Brown Eyed Handsome Man." Toot -- Chubby Checker
[from the themed set "the "toot"s have it!"]
[1960] His Chubbiness didn't take it too hard when this cute tune got almost no attention in 1960. That's because it was the "B" side of "The Twist." Toot, Toot, Tootsie -- Tiny Tim
[from the themed set "the "toot"s have it!"]
[19??] Combining the title and the artist you have the most alliterative record on this Page!
Toot Toot Tootsie Tiny Tim!
Mel Blanc's version of this song (with the elongated title of "Toot, Toot Tootsie Goodbye") is also available for your sampling.
As for this recording, well, I think it was done with a 10-dollar used machine (just slightly more advanced that string and Dixie cup) but still it sound like everyone was having fun. Toot, Toot, Tootsie Goodbye -- Mel Blanc
[from the themed set "blancs all, folks!"]
[1949] This is the old chestnut as only Mel could do it. The piano bridge is nothing short of unbelievable. And the ending is hilarious. Torero -- Julius LaRosa
[from the themed set "dueling toreros"]
[1958] This English language cover of the Renato Carosone recording is not a literal translation of that hit but, like that one, it does mention Marlon Brando! Torero -- Renato Carosone
[from the themed set "dueling toreros"]
[1958] The singer/pianist from Naples was one of the most beloved entertainers on the Italian music scene. This endearing recording, including the mention of Marlon Brando (everybody understood THAT part), was one of the most popular foreign-language hits of the past 50 years. Transistor Sister -- Freddy Cannon
[from the themed set "radio waves"]
[1961] This is one of two Freddy records that could fit nicely into this themed set and I couldn't decide which of the two to use. So I flipped a coin and it came up "edge"! That meant I had to use both. Listen here for the mention of "U.S. Bonds" (who does the record above this one); Mr. Bonds was not yet using the professional name of Gary when Freddy cut this. Tritzem Yodel -- Grandpa Jones
[1962] I loved Grandpa and this is my favorite recording by him. The yodeling is overdubbed and I am not sure whether it's him actually doing it. True Love -- Bing Crosby and Grace Kelly
[1956] This Cole Porter ballad, sung by Bing and Grace in the motion picture "High Society," is one of the most beautiful love songs ever written. Turn Your Radio On -- Ray Stevens
[from the themed set "radio waves"]
[1971] Ah, we now expand this themed set beyond the most literal meaning of radio, into another dimension. Ray is an wonderful recording artist and songwriter, best-known for his novelty recordings, and I do plan to feature some of those in the future. This most assuredly is a serious song and he does it so well. Please tune in to what he has to say. Tutti Fruti -- Slim and Slam
[from the themed set "three acts fight the battle of tutti frutti!"]
[1938] Slim and Slam (sometimes billed as Slim & Slam) was a 1930s musical partnership formed by Bulee "Slim" Gaillard (vocals, guitar and piano) and Leroy Elliott "Slam" Stewart (bass and vocals). They produced novelty jazz numbers featuring Slim's distinctive vocal style with vocalese and scats and nonsense words. This is the first of the "Tutti Frutti" records presented here and none are spelled exactly THAT way! Reportedly Richard Penniman about 17 years later loosely based HIS "Tutti Frutti" on this song but, in my opinion, it must have been based VERY loosely! This peaked at #3 on the pop chart, making it chartwise the most successful "Tutti Frutti" record of the three. Tutti' Frutti -- Pat Boone
[from the themed set "three acts fight the battle of tutti frutti!"]
[1955] Lend me your ears! I have not come to bury Pat or to praise him! This is, of course, Pat's famous (or infamous) a cover of the Little Richard record. Without criticizing or defending it, I have decided to include this record because (1) is it controversial and thus "interesting" (2) it was the second-highest charting "Tutti Frutti," peaking at #12 and (3) I am curious to see how this one fares here against the other two. Those who have simply heard ABOUT this record without having ever heard it can now experience it firsthand and judge its merits (or lack of merits). Tutti-Frutti -- Little Richard
[from the themed set "three acts fight the battle of tutti frutti!"]
[1955] A different spelling and also a different song from the Slim and Slam entry, though it may have been loosely based on that one. This is of course the "Tutti Frutti" record that people today consider the classic of the three here, even though it was the least successful chartwise, peaking at #17. Tweedle Dee -- Georgia Gibbs
[from the themed set "dees, doats and dee dum"]
[1955] As far as I know, ALL pressings by Georgia Gibbs listed the title as "Tweedle Dee." I could never figure out why because, after all, she SINGS "Tweedlee Dee."
Georgia's record, arangement-wise, was basically a speeded up version of Lavern's. It's been reported that LaVern was so upset that she tried to get a congressman to pass legislation barring arrangements from being copied in that manner but was unsuccessful.
Georgia made it to #2 on the chart. Tweedle Dee, Tweedle Dum -- Middle Of The Road
[from the themed set "dees, doats and dee dum"]
[1971] This was a Scottish group, the nucleus consisting of Sally Carr and Ian and Eric McCredie. They hit #1 in the UK with their original version of "Chirpy Chirpy Cheep Cheep" and #2 in the UK with this recording.
I think that they sound quite a bit like Abba. Do you agree? Tweedlee Dee -- LaVern Baker
[from the themed set "dees, doats and dee dum"]
[1955] Winfield Scott wrote this song and he would eventually go on to co-write (with Otis Blackwell) several hits for Elvis including "Return To Sender," and "One Broken Heart For Sale."
Both this version and the Georgia Gibbs version below were recorded in 1954. But since they didn't chart until 1955, that's the date I'm listing here.
The song is actually titled "Tweedlee Dee" but some of the early pressings of it by LaVern Baker list it as "Tweedle Dee." Since most of the LaVern Baker pressings list it with its real title, I'm going with that.
This was LaVern's first hit, reaching #4 on the R&B chart and #14 on the pop chart.
The backup singers on this recording are the Gliders. Twelfth Street Rag -- Pee Wee Hunt
[from the themed set "two catchy capitol instrumentals"]
[1949] This was a #1 single and most deservedly so. The incredible piano player on it was Carl Fischer, who was Frankie Laine's musical director and also the father of Terry and Carol Fischer of the Murmaids. Two Little Boys -- Rolf Harris
[from the themed set "two sides of the wobble board king"]
[1969] There's no wobble board on this touching recording which spent several weeks atop the British charts. Tzena Tzena -- Paul Evans
[from the themed set "three great versions of a rollicking hebrew classic"]
[1961] Our favorite happy-go-lucky guy did this shorter version with a shorter and comma-less title but of course its the same song and it's also great. This came out eleven years following the above two versions and is from Paul's album entited "Folk Songs Of Many Lands." Tzena, Tzena, Tzena -- Gordon Jenkins and the Weavers
[from the themed set "three great versions of a rollicking hebrew classic"]
[1950] "Tzena, Tzena, Tzena" was written by Issachar Miron who was born in Kutno, Poland in 1920. When he was 19 he emigrated to Palestine just before the Holocaust and World War II began. He wrote the tune during World War II while serving in Britain’s Jewish Brigade. His 30-year-old friend, Yechiel Chagiz, wrote the lyrics.
Gordon Jenkins and the Weavers discovered the song in 1950 and recorded this version. It was released as a single and its flipside was "Goodnight, Irene." The latter made the chart a week after "Tzena" and ultimately became the "A" side, spending 13 weeks at #1.
"Tzena" did pretty well on its own, peaking at #2. For more information about the song along with a wonderful video of the Weavers performing this, please visit http://www.richardsilverstein.com/tikun_olam/tag/tzena-tzena. Tzena, Tzena, Tzena -- Mitch Miller
[from the themed set "three great versions of a rollicking hebrew classic"]
[1950] This version of the song did almost as well on the chart as the above version by Gordon Jenkins and the Weavers, peaking at #3. Uh! Oh! (Pt. 2) -- The Nutty Squirrels
[from the themed set "nutty sascha"]
[1959] So "who is Sascha" you may ask! Well, he is Sascha Burland, a man who worked for many different advertising agencies as a copywriter, producer and composer of many well-known commercial jingles. He wrote "No Matter What Shape (Your Stomach's In)," which in 1966 became a hit Alka-Seltzer commercial and also a hit recording by the T-Bones. He also wrote the famous theme song from the legendary TV show "What's My Line?".
Musically his preferences leaned toward jazz.
Sascha and his music partner Don Elliot, on a whim I suppose, decided to emulate David Seville's chipmunks but with different animals in a jazz setting doing a recording that was completely scat singing.
I cannot think of any NORMAL "all-scat-singing" record ever doing as well on the chart. This one, on the Hanover label, peaked at #14.
Up Above My Head -- Sister Rosetta Tharpe and Marie Knight
[194?] Marie has been represented on this page as half of the duo of Marie and Rex on the 1959 hit "I Can't Sit Down." But she was best known as a legendary gospel star. She became half of a powerful duo in the 1940s with Sister Rosetta Tharpe. Together they had a string of gospel hits which included "Beams Of Heaven," "Didn't It Rain" and this one. Following "I Can't Sit Down," she spent lots of time in the 60s singing R&B with artists including Brook Benton, the Drifters. Then she relaunched her gospel career as a solo singer.
Sadly Marie passed away from complications of pneumonia at a Harlem, NY nursing home on August 30, 2009. She was 84. Valley Girl -- Frank Zappa (featuring Moon Unit Zappa)
[1982] This was Frank Zappa's only national top 40 hit, reaching #32 on the Billboard Hot 100. Joel Whitburn has described him as "rock music's leading satirist," though some might feel that Weird Al Yankovic also deserves consideration for that title. What is indisputed is that Frank was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall Of Fame in 1995 and won Grammy's Lifetime Achievement Award in 1997. His daughter, Moon Unit, is of course the real star of this particular recording. Like totally? Well not quite! The original recording runs about four and a half minutes and this is an edited sample of "valspeak." It inspired the 1983 movie of the same name starring Nicholas Cage. Vanilla Olay -- Jackie DeShannon
[1972] I love this. If any of you know the meaning of the title, please email me. Vaya Con Dios -- Les Paul and Mary Ford
[from the themed set "in memory of the amazing les paul"]
[1953] There are simply not enough superlatives that I could use to describe what this amazing musician and inventor did during the 94 years of his life which, sadly, ended this week. For additional information on Les you can check out the Daily News page. Les developed multi-tracking and used it so effectively on almost all of the records that he did with his wife and musical partner, Mary Ford. This recording, which spent 11 weeks at #1, was their most successful ever. Via Con Me -- Paolo Conte
[1995] Denise sent me an email that stated: "request...please listen...and maybe add to your record page..pleeeeze."
I had never heard this and knew nothing about it so I asked her for additional information. She wrote: "It is from a very popular movie "french kiss" (comedy) and this song gets hundreds of thousands of listens on youtube ... paolo conte is a huge European star ... and it is a great recording."
That says it all. I listened and I immediately loved it, though the only words I could understand were "wonderful" and "chips." Maybe Lays should consider using this for one of their commercials?
Thanks Denise! Wait Til' My Bobby Gets Home -- Darlene Love
[from the themed set ""bobby" songs"]
[1963] If you want a great example of Phil Spector's Wall Of Sound, try this record on for size. Waking Up Is Hard To Do -- Neil Sedaka
[from the themed set "wake up! wake up!"]
[2009] Neil himself parodies his own 1962 chart-topper "Breaking Up Is Hard To Do" in this unreleased recording made in his home earlier this year. Great! But in this themed set he is merely the opening act for a bunch of zany "doctors"!
You can watch Neil recording this on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aaTB2Q3v6Zc. Waking Up Is Hard To Do -- The Laryngospasms
[from the themed set "wake up! wake up!"]
[2009] They are a comedy troup whose website is http://www.laryngospasms.com. You can watch their YouTube video of this at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WOrjcLJ2IE0.
Walkin' Through A Cemetery -- Claudine Clark
[from the themed set "what were they thinking? (questionable follow-ups to huge hits)"]
[1962] Follow-up to "Party Lights." Claudine's chart career pretty much died with this release. Walking To New Orleans -- Fats Domino
[from the themed set "bobby charles wrote ..."]
[1960] It was appropriate that the man who Bobby said "changed my life forever" as noted in the blurb for "Alligator" would take one his songs to the top 10. The record duplicated the peak position of "Alligator" which was #6. Wang Dang Doodle -- Koko Taylor
[1966] This Grammy Award winning blues legend passed away on June 3, 2009 in her hometown of Chicago at the age of 80. On May 7 this critically-acclaimed artist, known worldwide as the “Queen of the Blues,” won her 29th Blues Music Award. It was for Traditional Female Blues Artist Of The Year, making her the recipient of more Blues Music Awards than any other artist. This was her best-known and most successful single. Wang Dang Taffy-Apple Tango (Mambo Cha Cha Cha), The -- Pat Boone
[from the themed set "aaron schroeder wrote ..."]
[1959] Aaron co-wrote this one with J. Leslie McFarland.
And, yes, this may well be the silliest chart record that Aaron wrote. The flipside, "For A Penny," got to #23 whereas this song only got to #62.
I decided to include it for variety! Way Back Home -- Bing Crosby
[1950] Der Bingle is backed up by on this one by Fred Waring and his Pennsylvanians. Why is it so superlative? Listen and find out. Way Of A Clown, The -- Teddy Randazzo
[1960] Teddy the performer started his career in the 50s as the lead singer of the Three Chuckles. In 1959 he, with his songwriting partner Bobby Weinstein, wrote Steve Lawrence's hit "Pretty Blue Eyes" and a few years later they wrote Little Anthony and the Imperials' hits "Goin' Out Of My Head" and "Hurts So Bad" among several others. Here's a comment from Denise: "I first met Teddy in 1959 with my group the Delicates. He loved our sound and asked us to do backup for a song he wrote called "Journey To Love." The artist was Al Martino and the arranger Don Costa ... what could be better than this? We were a little nervous but Teddy helped us through it. It was a great experience and our first backup work. It's a memory I will treasure always." We Didn't Start The Fire -- Billy Joel
[from the themed set "life is a list"]
[1989] Billy's musical history lesson became a #1 hit for him. We Go Together -- The Moonglows
[from the themed set "remembering music legend harvey fuqua"]
[1956] The passing on July 6 of Harvey Fuqua is sad on so many levels. Among other things, it means that all five members of the original group are now gone. They included Harvey, Bobby Lester, Alexander Graves, Prentiss Barnes and guitarist Billy Johnson.
Harvey was a legendary performer, writer and producer and the nephew of Charlie Fuqua of the Ink Spots. He founded the group that would become the Moonglows in 1952 following a stint in the service. Alan Freed heard about the group and reportedly changed their name from the Crazy Sounds to Moonglows after his own on-air nickname which was "Moondog." After some regional but no national success, they eventually landed with Chess records and in 1954 achieved their first major success with their original version of "Sincerely," which hit #1 on the R&B chart and #20 on the pop chart while competing with the McGuire Sisters' #1 cover version.
Many years later Harvey would go on to produce Marvin Gaye's hit, "Sexual Healing" and discover disco acts including Weather Girls, Sylvester and New Birth.
The Moonglows were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall Of Fame in 2000.
On this recording, Harvey shares lead vocals with Bobby Lester. We Love You Beatles -- The Carefrees
[from the themed set ""beatles" in the title"]
[1964] The Carefrees were a female vocal trio from England, consisting of Lyn Cornell, Betty Prescott and Barbara Kay. They quickly got on the Beatles bandwagon and scored a #39 national hit. If the tune sounds like something else, it should: it was a parody of "We Love You Conrad" from the hit Broadway musical and later film "Bye Bye Birdie." Wendy -- The Beach Boys
[from the themed set "everyone knows it's windy (or wendy)"]
[1964] This is admittedly a "stream of consciousness" addition to what I planned as simply a "windy" themed set. While adding the Association's record I thought of THIS one and said to myself "Oh, why not. It's such a great song!"
But it was never a single. It was part of the Beach Boys' 1964 album "All Summer Long." Then it was issued as part of an E.P. entitled "4-By The Beach Boys" and, as an E.P. cut, reached #44 on the chart.
The song is now listed as a Brian Wilson-Mike Love composition. But originally only Brian's name was on the credits. Mike's name was added as a result of a lawsuit filed by him against Brian in the 1990s.
The other Beach Boys on this recording are Brian's brothers Carl and Dennis Wilson and Al Jardine. Western Movies -- The Olympics
[from the themed set "three goodies by this gold-medal group"]
[1958] This was the first of 14 Top 100 recordings by this R&B group. They were formed in 1957 by lead singer Walter Ward and the original group included tenors Eddie Lewis and Charles Fizer, baritone singer Walter Hammond bass singer Melvin King (bass). I personally saw them perform at a show in Dearborn, Michigan in 2003 and they tore the house down. Sadly Walter passed away in 2006. The group has a unique and very catchy sound. I shortly plan to post a fourth record by the group (about a dude named Pete) in a separate themed set. Meanwhile, enjoy these three representative samples of their fabulous work. What A Crazy Guy (Dufo) -- Wally Cox
[from the themed set "joel whitburn's choice for "worst record ever" and its flip side"]
[1953] This is the flip side of Joel Whitburn's choice for "worst record ever." What A Guy -- The Raindrops
[from the themed set "in memory of ellie greenwich"]
[1963] The music world lost a giant with the passing of Ellie Greenwich. Her wonderful songs left an indelible impression and are a part of the soundtrack of our lives. Though best known as a songwriter and a backup singer, she did actually achieve chart success as a billed vocalist: as the Butterflys ("Good Night Baby"), on her own ("I Want You To Be My Baby") and as a member of the Raindrops, who are featured here. This recording was actually a duet with her husband at the time, Jeff Barry, with whom she co-wrote this song. All the female voices on this record are hers. Eventually the Raindrops added a third member. This record barely missed the national top 40, peaking at #41.
A personal note: this was the very first record that I ever played over the air as a disc jockey. That was in the summer of 1963 at WICY in Malone, NY. What A Surprise -- Johnny Maestro
[from the themed set "heaven's latest golden angel"]
[1961] This was Johnny's second big solo hit, peaking at #33. The song has an interesting lyrical twist. What Am I Supposed To Do -- Ann-Margret
[from the themed set "a-m: feisty and tender"]
[1962] Here's the tender side of Ann-Margret. What a pretty song this is!
Reviewer Michael J. Batcho summed up my feelings very well: "Her rendition of Helen Carter's "What Am I Supposed To Do" is just perfect! Anyone, teenaged or now older who has ever loved and lost will take her version of this song into his or her own heart."
Why this recording only got as high as #82 is something that I can't figure out. What Will My Mary Say -- Johnny Mathis
[from the themed set "for our countdown queen, dj mary roboto"]
[1963] Original Columbia copies of this single list the title as "What Will Mary Say" (with no "My"). However Paul Vance, who wrote this song with Eddie Synder, told me personally that "Will Will My Mary Say" is actually the correct title, so I will list it that way. A really nice song. Can anyone tell me who is that mystery "devil woman" on the record? What You've Done To Me -- Micki Marlo with Paul Anka
[195?] ... and with Paul you're so divine! This fabulous ABC-Paramount single has been pretty much forgotten over the years but it deserves to be heard again. Whatcha See Is Whatcha Get -- The Dramatics
[from the themed set "a dramatic lead voice is stilled"]
[1971] I have especially fond memories of this record because it was climbing the chart when I first began listening to Casey Kasem's "American Top Forty." Little did I know that I would have the pleasure of interviewing Ron Banks, the lead singer on this recording, a few months later.
The personnel on this recording and on "In The Rain," in addition to Ron, were William "Wee Gee" Howard, Elbert Wilkins, Willie Ford, Larry Demps and keyboardist James Mack Brown.
Sadly Ron passed away suddenly on March 4, apparently of a heart attack, at the age of 58. Of those listed above, the only surviving members are Elbert and Willie.
This infectious uptempo tune peaked at an impressive #9 and it set the stage for the total-change-of-pace ballad below which bettered its peak by four positions.
Please see the Daily News page for more information about this group. Whatever Will Be, Will Be (Que Sera, Sera) -- Doris Day
[from the themed set "but seer-iously"]
[1956] This was a #2 recording for Doris and was from the film "The Man Who Knew Too Much." Jay Livingston and Ray Evans wrote it and it won the Oscar for Best Song. It's one of the few cases in pop music where the parenthesized portion of a title is better-known to many than the primary portion. "Que Sera, Sera"! Wheezy Woozy Whatomobile -- Mel Blanc
[from the themed set "blancs all, folks!"]
[19??] This could have been called "The Lemon Song." When The Lovelight Starts Shining Through His Eyes -- The Supremes
[from the themed set "happy girl group sounds"]
[1963] This was their first national top forty hit and surely one of their most supreme recordings. When You Wish Upon A Star -- Cliff Edwards
[from the themed set "40's best song oscar winners"]
[1940] 1940 Best Song Oscar winner, from "Pinocchio": music by Leigh Harline, lyrics by Ned Washington. Cliff (also known as Ukulele Ike) performs it on the soundtrack in the role of Jiminy Cricket. Where Is The Boy? -- Diane Ray
[from the themed set "boy crazy"]
[1963] Other than the facts that she was from Gastonia, North Carolina, had a national top forty hit single "Please Don't Talk To The Lifeguard" and an album called "The Exciting Years" containing that song, little is known about this artist who has from time to time been confused with Diane Renay. This peppy single was from that album and, though it didn't chart, I think it's every bit as good as "Lifeguard." Whiffenpoof Song, The -- Bob Crewe
[from the themed set "bah! bah! bah! (and ba!)"]
[1960] Legendary record producer Bob Crewe does his unusual rendering of the tune, a la Bobby Darin's "Mack The Knife." Whiffenpoof Song, The -- Rudy Vallee
[from the themed set "bah! bah! bah! (and ba!)"]
[19??] Rudy recorded this song several times during his career. According to YouTube, this version is from 1927, but I am not totally sure which is why you see the question marks in the date field. Whiffenpoof Song, The -- The Whiffs
[from the themed set "bah! bah! bah! (and ba!)"]
[1959] The Yale Whiffenpoofs, AKA The Whiffs, are the oldest collegiate a cappella group in the United States, established in 1909. They are best known for "The Whiffenpoof Song," based on a tune written by Tod Galloway (Amherst 1895) and adapted with lyrics by Meade Minnigerode (Yale 1910). The group comprises college senior men who compete in the spring of their junior year for 14 spots. The business manager and musical director of the group, known in Whiff tradition respectively as the "Popocatepetl" and "Pitchpipe," are chosen by members of the previous year's group. This 1959 recording actually came later than the one by Rudy Vallee below, but I've decided to list it first because of the historical significance of this group related to the song's storied history. Whispering Hope -- Jo Stafford and Gordon MacRae
[from the themed set "a triple play by jo and gordon"]
[1950] This beautiful song, performed so well by Jo and Gordon, was written in 1868 by Septimus Winner, who also wrote "Listen To The Mockingbird." White Levis -- The Majorettes
[from the themed set "happy girl group sounds"]
[1963] An encore by the girls who invited us to dance the Kangaroo below. This got lots of play in various parts of the country, including New York City, but never took off. Still I love it. Who's Afraid Of The Big Bad Wolf? -- Barbra Streisand
[1963] I had heard "My Coloring Book" by her and that was nice. This was the next one I heard by her and it's the one that knocked me out. It is still one of my all-time favorite Streisand recordings. Who's On First (Rock Show) -- The Credibility Gap
[from the themed set "clap for the gap"]
[1973] I'm speechless. Wild Cherry -- Don Cherry
[from the themed set "don't these tunes sound alike?"]
[1956] Isn't it wild that, although the lyrics are totally different, this "Cherry" sounds so much like Dorothy Shay's hit? Will You, Willyum -- Janis Martin
[195?] This rockabilly great sadly passed away a couple of years ago. I just love this record so much! Willie Can -- Sue Thompson
[from the themed set "millie and willie"]
[196?] Sue's wonderful rendering of a Bouldeaux and Felice Bryant tune. I played this during my interview show with Sue. I just love the way Sue does the line "Willie, there's a moon, there's a moon oh Willie!". Willie's Sung With Everyone (But Me) -- Paul Evans
[from the themed set "life is a list"]
[1996] No explanation necessary here. The title says it all. By the way, Paul, I know someone else whom Willie has never sung with. He's typing this message. Windy -- The Association
[from the themed set "everyone knows it's windy (or wendy)"]
[1967] This catchy tune was a very well-deserved #1 hit by this Los Angeles group, consisting of Terry Kirkman, Gary "Jules" Alexander, Jim Yester, Ted Bluechel Jr., Russ Giguere and the late Brian Cole. Wipeout -- The Fat Boys and The Beach Boys
[from the themed set "vocalizing instrumental hits"]
[1987] The Fat Boys were a rap trio from Brooklyn, New York, consisting of Mark "Prince Markie Dee" Morales, Damon "Kool Rock" Wimbley and the late Darren "The Human Beat Box" Robinson. The group starred in the 1987 film "Disorderlies."
The Beach Boys were a pop rock group from Hawthorne, California.
Together they made this interesting and surprising recording of the Surfaris' instrumental surf classic "Wipe Out" (though with a slightly altered spelling). You can catch the waves right here. Witch Doctor -- David Seville
[from the themed set "which doctor do your prefer?"]
[1958] The most famous version of this song, performed by its composer, AKA Ross Bagdasarian. Witch Doctor -- Don Lang
[from the themed set "which doctor do your prefer?"]
[1958] The hit version in the United Kingdom. Wonderful Baby -- Don McLean
[1973] While adding "Brahms' Lullaby" (see below) I kept thinking about this recording and decided "I must add this one NEXT." It's my favorite Don McLean recording. Woodstock Remix -- Jamie Perlow
[2009] Jamie is an up and coming performer who is making lots of waves in the Tampa Bay area. This recording is going to be part of her soon-to-be-released album on the SAB label, which recently had a Billboard top ten singles hit with "Waiting" by DeLyn.
This is called "Woodstock Remix" because Jamie's original recording of this did not sound like what I am presenting here. Japanese record producer Shinji Moroi heard her acoustic version of this song and, with her permission, remixed it and turned it into something quite different from the other recordings of this song that you are familiar with and, may I add, quite special.
I think this is a great new rendition of Joni's wonderful song about the event that 40 years ago became an indelible part of rock and roll history.
World Without Love, A -- Peter and Gordon
[from the themed set "in memory of gordon waller"]
[1964] This duo consisted of Peter Asher and Gordon Waller. They were the first British invasion act, other than the Beatles, to hit #1 on the Hot 100 and they did it with their first charted record. Overall they had a total of 14 national hits in the U.S.
Gordon passed away a few hours after suffering a heart attack on July 16. He was 64. Peter described him as "the heart and soul of our duo." Please see the writeup in Daily News for more information.
This was that first hit of theirs, which topped the chart. The writers were Paul McCartney and John Lennon. It's a great recording that has stood the test of time very well. Worst That Could Happen -- Brooklyn Bridge
[from the themed set "heaven's latest golden angel"]
[1968] Johnny re-emerged as a hit recording artist when he fronted this group that consisted of a vocal quartet (the Del-Satins) and a seven-piece band (the Rhythm Method). This ballad of heartache spent two weeks at #3 on the chart. Y.M.C.A. -- The Village People
[from the themed set "late-70s disco"]
[1978] Closing our disco themed set is this very memorable sextet from New York City. Each of the five members appeared in costume, portraying a different character in performance: Victor Willis was a policeman; Randy Jones was a cowboy; David Hodo was a construction worker; Felipe Rose was a Native-American; Alexander Briley was an army man; and the late Glenn Hughes was a biker.
They appeared in the movie "Can't Stop The Music."
This was their biggest hit, peaking at #2 on the chart. Yah Das Ist Ein Christmas Tree -- Mel Blanc
[from the themed set "blancs all, folks!"]
[19??] It's out of season. So what! Yea - Yea (Class Cutter) -- Dale Hawkins
[from the themed set "in memory of a rockabilly great"]
[1959] First pressings of this recording show the title only as "Class Cutter" but most pressings list it the way I've listed it here. What a fabulous artist Dale was! Yeah Man -- Sam Cooke
[from the themed set "evolution of a major hit"]
[1964] Sam wrote and recorded this song, which was part of his "Shake" album. It was about dances. For the rest of the story, please read the blurb for the record below. Yellow Rose Of Texas, The -- Johnny Desmond
[from the themed set "21 yellow roses"]
[1955] Though Mitch Miller's version was far and away the biggest, Johnny's version did very well, peaking at #3. Yellow Rose Of Texas, The -- Mitch Miller
[from the themed set "21 yellow roses"]
[1955] Mitch will be celebrating his 99th birthday on July 4th. This recording was #1 for six straight weeks: it was his only chart-topper and easily his biggest hit ever.
"Yellow Rose" is a traditional folk song which has long been popular in the United States and is considered an unofficial state song of Texas. Its writer is unknown. Yellow Rose Of Texas, The -- Stan Freberg
[from the themed set "21 yellow roses"]
[1955] This is surely one of Stan's most remembered and best loved records.
It's Jodlon's Rhythmaires who are doing the vocals and Alvin Stoller doing the "Yankee" snare drumming! I'm not sure who the wayward banjo picker is.
Note: stylewise this is actually more of a satire of the Johnny Desmond recording even though (so help me) Mitch Miller is mentioned by name toward the end. Yes! We Have No Bananas -- Spike Jones and his City Slickers
[from the themed set "goin' bananas!"]
[19??] This is the most popular banana song of the bunch. Yesterday, When I Was Young -- Roy Clark
[from the themed set "nostalgia at its best"]
[1969] Roy touched so many hearts with his rendering of this Charles Aznavour composition. Ying Tong Song -- The Goons
[from the themed set "it's ying-along time!"]
[1953] Pure nonsense.
For those experiencing this for the first time it's best that you know nothing about it. So I won't make any further comment here except to say that you can find information about this by going to http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ying_Tong_Song. Ying Yang -- The Bellamy Brothers
[from the themed set "it's ying-along time!"]
[1988] The brothers, Howard and David, achieved overnight pop music success with their 1976 #1 recording "Let Your Love Flow." But their destiny over the years was to become one of country music's most popular duos.
This recording was the B side of their #6 country hit "I'll Give You All My Love Tonight."
I was a country deejay at WTTM in Trenton, NJ when the guys came out with this record. It was the B side of their #6 country hit "I'll Give You All My Love Tonight." However my radio audience preferred this off-the-wall tune. Yes, they were a bit weird like me, so this was a very good fit. You Ain't Down Home -- Jann Browne
[from the themed set "country girls rule!"]
[1989] Jann, originally from Anderson, Indiana, was a member of the well-known country group Asleep At The Wheel before embarking on a solo career. This recording was a top 20 country hit for her and was a personal favorite of my listeners when I was spinning country music at radio station WTTM in Trenton, NJ. You Can't Sit Down -- The Dovells
[from the themed set "well in that case, just stand up!"]
[1963] Commercially the more successful version of the song and also the group's biggest hit. You Can't Sit Down (Part 2) -- The Phil Upchurch Combo
[from the themed set "well in that case, just stand up!"]
[1961] The original hit instrumental version of the song. You Turn Me On, I'm A Radio -- Joni Mitchell
[from the themed set "radio waves"]
[1972] What better way to conclude this set that this first top forty hit by beloved singer-songwriter, who was born Roberta Joan Anderson in Fort McLeod, Alberta, Canada. This recording, in terms of its definition of radio, is similar to Ray Stevens' recording above. I guess in this themed set we've looked at radio from several sides now. You'll Never Get Away -- Don Cornell and Teresa Brewer
[1952] Okay, here's the breakdown. Together they sing the title 56 times. Teresa sings it by herself four times. Don sings it by himself three times. (That's because at one point he sings "I'll never let you get away," just to be different!) This delightful duet peaked at #17 on the national chart. Your Boyfriend's Back -- Bobby Comstock and the Counts
[from the themed set "answer records"]
[1963] Answer record to the Angels' "My Boyfriend's Back." I bet you haven't heard this one before. (I'll only bet a nickel, though.) Your Bulldog Drinks Champagne -- Jim Stafford
[1974] ..... but fun. Your Cheatin' Heart -- Alfred A. Alfa
[19??] Indescribable. Your Song Sucks -- Alan O'Day
[2008] Alan wrote his own #1 hit "Undercover Angel" as well as Helen Reddy's "Angie Baby" (also #1) and the Righteous Brothers' memorable "Rock And Roll Heaven." This live recording shows Alan's funny side. It's from his excellent album called "I Hear Voices" which has 13 other tracks that sound nothing like this one! Your Wild Heart -- Joy Layne
[1957] Joy was a teenage pop singer who looked like Sandy Duncan and sounded very much like Teresa Brewer. Shortly after starting this Page, I created a themed set called "dum dum and drummer" which consisted of Joy's recording of "Dum Dum" (a different song from the Brenda Lee hit of that title) and "Teen Beat" by Sandy Nelson. Of course the records had nothing in common: I was just trying to be cute.
"Dum Dum" has done reasonably well on our chart and many of you might not be aware that it was the "B" side of Joy's only charted single, "Your Wild Heart," which I have (finally) decided to present here.
This got to #20 on the chart and was a cover of the Poni-Tails' version of the song, which is included in my radio interview show with two of the "Born Too Late" girls. Zip-A-Dee-Doo-Dah -- James Baskett
[from the themed set "40's best song oscar winners"]
[1946] 1947 Best Song Oscar winner, from "Song Of The South": music by Allie Wrubel, lyrics by Ray Gilbert. James performed it in the film in the role of Uncle Remus.