Unknown Classic: Ginny Arnell--"I Wish I Knew What Dress To Wear" (1964)

Ginny Arnell. had sung duets with Gene Pitney in the late 50's/early 60's with some success and began a solo career a few years later. She had one hit in 1963 with, "Dumb Head" and was poised as a bright light in the girl group sub-genre. However her best work came in 64-66 which coincided with the British Invasion. None of her singles even cracked the top 100, including the song your going to hear. "I Wish I Knew What Dress To Wear" is one of the best examples (and what i consider a classic) of the girl group era. Hope you like it as well......

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Happy Birthday to Eric Clapton!

Happy 66th birthday to Eric Clapton...... The debate among music lovers about who's the best guitar player in rock history is a totally fruitless one. Since I'm not a guitar player, my thoughts are based on what I hear, or course friends of mine who do play have a different set of criteria when discussing this area. One thing for sure however is that Eric Clapton had solidified his place in rock history even before embarking on a solo career. He has come a long way from the purist who left The Yardbirds over the fact they were being too "commercial",...

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Terry Jacks: Season in the Sun (1974)

    Happy 67th birthday to Terry Jacks.....     Terry Jacks and his wife Susan led "The Poppy Family" to some chart success  in their native Canada and in the US, mainly on the strength of their #2 hit, "Where You Going Billy?". By 1973 however, the marriage and the band had gone separate ways as both released solo albums in that year.      "Seasons in the Sun" was an English adaptation of the song, "Le Moribond" by Belgian singer Jacques Brel with lyrics by singer/poet Rod McKuen. The Beach Boys...

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The Psychedelic Era meets soft pop:The Arbors--The Letter (1969)

Many artists were criticized for jumping on the disco bandwagon in the late 70's, but the same phenomenon occurred in the late 60's during what was considered "the Psychedelic Era".  Artists and producers attempted things that later could be looked at as noble experiments, or just plain awful. All in the name of sounding "hip" enough to sell to an audience who's taste would change in just a year or two anyway. The Arbors were four man vocal group that had success in 66 and 67 with a sound much like The Letterman. Very safe, very professional...

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Sunday Morning Vault: The Applejacks--Mexican Hat Rock (1958)

The Applejacks were a studio group led by Philadelphia native Dave Appell. The had three songs on the top 100 with this one being the first, and the highest rated (#16)....everyone enjoy their Sunday......

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Apollo 100--Joy (1972)

Last night, we attended "Bachanalia", which is a yearly celebration of all things Bach. For 6 hours, over 100 artists plays selections from the great composer in all different styles. It's one of the highlights of my year, and a great way to kick off the springtime. In a later blog, I'll discuss further my love for classical music and how rock music had a direct hand in my discovery of it.... In 1972, arranger and multi-instrumentalist Tom Parker put together a band which delved into light classical pieces. They released two albums, "Joy" in 1972,...

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Elizabeth Taylor Bio now in the Omnibus bookstore

The Book, "Elizabeth: The Story of Elizabeth Taylor" by Alexander Walker is now available at the Omnibus book and music store for only $10.86. Check that out along with our new releases this month from Dionne Warwick, Tommy Shaw, and Derek & The Dominoes. All at www.rockandrollomnibus.com/book-store.p...

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You didn't think I'd forget Aretha did you??

As mentioned in my previous post, today is also Aretha Franklin's 69th birthday. The last year has been tough on the Queen of Soul, so we hope this next year brings her good health and happiness. And for OUR happiness...I just happen to have a few videos for our pleasure....the last one especially is one of the most amazing performances I've ever seen....   ...

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Happy 64th Birthday to Sir Elton!

This morning was a tough call....today is Elton John's birthday, but it is also Aretha Franklin's. I respect the Queen of Soul, but anyone who knows me would figure Elton would go first (he IS the real Queen of England ya know....). Elton John is not only the artist that got me head over heels into the love of music, but into the love of the craft of making music.There isn't a lot to be said about him that already been talked about....so am going to allow the music to do the talking. Since the release of "Songs From the West Coast", EJ has had...

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New releases from the Omnibus bookstore.....

We have three new releases that are available at the Omnibus bookstore.... 1. Dionne Warwick: Only Trust Your Heart   10.99 2. Tommy Shaw: Great Divide   11.62 3. Derek & The Dominoes: Layla & Other Assorted Love Songs (40th Anniversary Edition 2CD Set)  21.75 If you have a special request to buy and album and we do not have it, please send me a note at rockandrollomnibus@gmail.com and we will make it available for you. Remem...

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The O'Jays--Love Train (1973)

The O'Jays had been making records since the early 60's, but it wasn't until working with the production team of Gamble/Huff in the early 70's that things began to take off. The title track from the "Back Stabbers" album hit the charts in 72 reaching #3, but this song was the cut that they will always be remembered by. Upbeat, optimistic, and with a groove that just won't quit, "Love Train" soared to #1 on this day  in January 1973. Here is a great clip from Soul Train......

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Cher: Dark Lady (1974)

Am sure there are those out there who do not like Cher. Her "in your face" attitude about her life and how she lives it is probably off putting to some, but at the end of the day, no one can deny her talents or her drive. Cher has had 11 top ten hits, 5 of them #1, and has won a Grammy, Emmy, several Academy awards as well as Golden Globes, and Cannes Film Festival awards. On this day in 1974, "Dark Lady" became the last of her No. 1's until "Believe" in 1998, although she would always have a chart presence even during the time she was concentrating...

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Lesley Gore: Sunshine, Lollipops, and Rainbows (1965)

Am not sure if it's the warm weather here in the Mid-south, but when sitting here at the computer my mind is filled with little pop confections;...so we do one more..(maybe). Lesley Gore was probably the best known female singer during the mid-60's while she was still a teenager. She made the move to attend college rather than continuing to tour and be in movies, so her popularity was fairly short lived, but left us with several classics of the genre. My favorite by far is the one seen today which was featured in the movie "Ski Party". It was...

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Sunday Morning Valut: Ann-Margret (1961)

When Ann-Margret came on the scene in 1961, her background had been acting, dancing and singing onstage, so signing a 7 year contract by 20th Century Fox in 1961 AND charting her first hit with RCA Victor shouldn't have been a surprise. However it was not long before the singing was confined to stage and screen and the career on the charts was over. "I Just Don't Understand", was her first and only top 20 hits. To me, her voice is an acquired taste, but as long as I can see the pictures, who cares? Have a happy Sunday everyone...

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Happy Birthday to the Frogman: Clarence Henry!

My parents used to poke fun at some of the music I listened too as not making any sense. Then I'd hear something like, "I Ain't Got No Home" and go, "huh??". Every generation has songs that are popular but really don't make a lot of sense, the words just go good together and/or the beat is great. It's difficult to hear Clarence Henry sing this song and not find yourself swaying or moving about.....which is what is cool about remembering a song, isn't it?? We here at the bus want to wish the Frogman a happy 74th birthday...if you go on You Tube,...

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Happy Birthday to John Hartman of the Doobie Brothers

The Bus wishes John Hartman of The Doobie Brothers a happy 61st birthday. John was one of the original members of the Doobie Brothers and was with them until 1979. He came back in 1987 and was on two of the group's later recordings, "Cycles" (89) and "Brotherhood" (91), until retiring for good in 92. Hope you all have a great Friday.....

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Happy 70th Birthday Paul Kantner

If you don't feel old enough....Paul Kantner of the Jefferson Airplane/Starship turns 70 today. Here are a few clips to help celebrate......

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In Praise Of: Paul Anka

The stories of those who were stars in the age before the British Invasion who became stars again in the 70's interest me because of their ability to adapt. A few weeks ago we briefly looked at Neil Sedaka...today a longer look at Paul Anka. Anka's first go-round with stardom occurred during the time between 57-62. Starting with the song, "Diana", he was in top 20 often, with 1959 being his biggest year in terms of chart action with songs like, "Lonely Boy", Put Your Head On My Shoulder" and "It's Time To Cry".... Although it is certain that the...

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Happy Birthday Nancy Wilson!!!

Nancy Wilson of Heart is 57 today....and I must say she not only looks good, but is still rocking it out. Frankly, I don't have a lot to say about her outside the context of the group, but it gives me a fine excuse to post some videos of her......the first one is an acoustic version of one of their hits, and the other is a kick-ass version of Led Zepplin's "Battle of Evermore".....

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Thinking of Annette....

Annette was in the news a few days ago as a fire did some damage to her families home in LA. She was unhurt, but it brings our thoughts back to a woman who was an icon in the early 60's. The AP story can be found here: http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20110311/ap_on_en_tv/us_people_funicello_fire_3 Annette was discovered in a dance recital at the age of 12 and was the last of the original Mouseketeers to be chosen...and the only one to be chosen by Walt Disney himself. She quickly became one of the most popular of the group and later branched out into...

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Jean Dinning, Songwriter of Pop Tragedy ‘Teen Angel,’ Dies at 86

This is a link that will take you to the NY Times story... http://www.nytimes.com/2011/03/12/arts/music/jean-dinning-songwriter-of-pop-tragedy-teen-angel-dies-at-86.html?hpw  .here is Mark Dinning doing "Teen Angel'......Thanks Susan for sending this along....                                               &nb...

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Happy Birthday Sylvester Stewart!!

Sylvester Stewart huh?? We all know him as Sly Stone and he celebrates his 67th birthday today.....have a good St. Patty's day today...

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Clapton Leaves Over a Hit Song: The Yardbirds--For Your Love (1965)

The Yardbirds, a blues/rock group that was doing well in England, was looking for that breakthrough hit in the states. Bassist Paul Samwelll-Smith arranged a Graham Gouldman song called, "For Your Love" to include bongos and harpsichord in a pop/rock arraignment. Clapton was incensed by this and on this day in 1965 left the Yardbirds. This was actually a case of both doing well from the split, Clapton left for John Mayall's Bluesbreakers and then on to Cream. He suggested Jimmy Page as his replacement, but at the time Page was doing very well with...

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Sunday Morning Vault: Ruby Andrews--Casonova (Your Playing Days Are Over) 1967

Ruby Andrews was a Mississippi girl who had some chart success in the late 60's. She charted three songs in total, but the first one Casonova (Your Playing Days Are Over) did the best reaching #51 in the fall of 1967...

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Happy Birthday James Taylor!!

It's a beautiful morning here in East Nashville and in a very mellow mood. Lo and behold I see that today we celebrate the birthday of someone who oozes mellow. Not a lot to say this morning except Happy 63rd Birthday to James Taylor. Now....we'll let him do what he does best.....good Saturday to you all!...

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Bridge Over Troubled Waters 40th anniversary now available on the Bus!!

A new double CD set from Simon & Garfunkel. In this set you will find the remastered version of this album classic from the duo. Included is a DVD which contains a 1969 CBS special, "Songs Of America" and a documentary, "The Harmony Game. The Making of Bridge Over Troubled Water", which includes interviews with Art and Paul! You can find this at our music store, just click on the tab "Book and Music Store"....check this and other great CD and books out.....

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Harry Nilsson--Without You (1972)

    Harry Nilsson (just known as Nilsson to most), was probably at his peak due to a series of excellent albums in the late 60's and early 70's. Just a few years later, between his poor behavior (being John Lennon's drinking buddy in the mid 70's), and rupturing one of his vocal chords, he lost a lot of commercial ground. He never returned to those heights again.        The group Badfinger had one of the most tragic stories in all of rock music. Their career being a series of bad management, bad decisions,and...

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What were they thinking?: Telly Savalas--If (1975)

     Many of us spend life wishing we could change what we do for a living. We forget that even those who are very successful in life also have those wishes. We live in an age where singers want to be actors, actors want to be singers and sports jocks want to do both. Sometimes that actually works out. The Billboard charts are littered with actors and others who record and do it with various degrees.       For some reason, the 70's were a fertile time for these kind of acts. David Soul, David Cassidy,...

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In Praise of: Eric Burdon and the Animals

During the British invasion, the two groups that seemingly towered over all other were The Beatles and The Rolling Stones. There were many who followed in their wake during the mid-60's. One group in my opinion that never received the accolades deserving them was The Animals. Part of this might be due to the fact that the original group were only together a few years, not to mention the fact that the first charting single was, "House of the Rising Sun" which seems to be about the only thing you ever hear on the radio from them anymore. The story...

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Fat Tuesday is almost gone.....

It's late here, but with Fat Tuesday going into Ash Wednesday I figured...who else but Dr. John. This was from his debut album in 1969.......

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Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Considerations for 2011

This was an article published about a week and a half ago...enjoy http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/7687368/rock_and_roll_hall_of_fame_considerations.html?cat...

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Olivia Newton-John: Have You Ever Been Mellow (1975)

On this day in 1975, Olivia Newton-John had her second #1 in the U.S. with "Have You Ever Been Mellow". She was in the middle of a streak of 7 #1's that stretched from 1974 to 1976. She has 10 as of today. Will need to do a longer blog on her, her family history is a very interesting one. However, we just want to keep it mellow this morning....have a happy Tuesday!...

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A Beautiful Monday...

Am not sure if this will be a regular feature, but thought Monday morning's would be a great time to keep everyone up to date on things in Omnibus land.... The stats are out for the month of February and it continues to show solid growth for all things bus. We started out the month 81st in our genre (Oldies) and 2,693rd overall. We ended at 71st in genre and 2195th overall. That is a fine increase. We also have 15 listeners who have made us a part of their presets (you download a desktop player that has presets like a car radio for easy access). The...

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Procol Harum: A Whiter Shade of Pale (1967)

Happy 65th birthday to Matthew Fisher! (He's the second from the left)... Keyboardist Matthew Fisher was a member of Procol Harum until 1969, but his organ at the beginning of "Whiter Shade of Pale" stands out as one of the most distinctive solos of all time. It is well worth seeking out those first three albums especially for it's melding of classical themes and breathtaking imagery....here's a clip from 67......

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Sunday Morning Vault: Angel--That Magic Touch (1977)

Angel is a glam metal band based out of Washington D.C. They were discovered back in the mid-70's by Gene Simmons of KISS and signed to their label, Casablanca. The main output of the band was over a four year period (75-79) and broke up in 1981. However, they reformed in 1998 and is still active. You can find them at http://www.myspace.com/AngelOfficialSite. This song was from 1977......

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Just a little Saturday morning music to relax to: Barbara Streisand (1977)

Ok....it's a rainy morning here in Nashville. I am home on a Saturday for the first time in months, and want to just chill and start my day with a sweet pop ballad. Well...as it turns out, today in 1977, the theme from "A Star is Born" because the #1 hit in the land. So...as  I settle in with some coffee and a bagel...here is Barbara and Kris, with the a scene from the movie. Enjoy your Saturda...

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A Rolling Stones Two-fer (1967)

On this day in 1967 "Ruby Tuesday" hit #1 on the U.S. charts.... Actually, it was the flip side that caused all of the fuss. "Let's Spend the Night Together" was actually the "A" side, but was banned in the UK. Although not banned in the US, broadcasters were a bit skiddish about playing it, so they also played the "Ruby" side. The Stones were scheduled to play on the Ed Sullivan Show and beforehand Jagger was told to find another song. ("The songs go or you go"). They finally comprised and the words "let's spend the night together" was changed...

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The Band who formed with the help of a traffic jam: Buffalo Springfield

Just like in any aspect of life, the truth seems odder than any fiction. In the case of Buffalo Springfield, who today marks the 45th anniversary of it's forming, it was a traffic jam that helped solidify their lineup. The story begins in 1965 when Stephen Stills met Nail Young at a club in Ontario. At the time, Stills was playing with "The Company" which was a spin off of "Au Go Go Singers". At that time Young was playing with The Squires, a group that he had been with for over two years.  The meeting must have been a positive experience...

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The hit isn't always the best song: 3 Songs from The Angels

Am not sure if radio programmers are responsible for this, but many times I find the best songs from an artist are the songs that are NOT hits. Am perfectly willing to admit that there might be the "I'm sick and tired of this crap", syndrome. However, in doing some research today, my theory comes back the fore. The Angels had a half dozen hits in the early/middle 60's, with by far the most popular being, "My Boyfriend's Back" (1963). They never had a strong follow up from a chart standpoint, but their last hit was called, "Wow Wow Wee (He's The...

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The real life group that was the inspiration for The Partridge Family.

First of all....Happy 55th Birthday to John Cowsill.....more in him in just a moment. The Cowsills were made up of Bill and Bob (guitars), Barry (Bass), John (drums), Susan, Paul and their mom Barbara. The group was formed in 1965 with the core of Bill, Bob and Barry, soon afterward John and then Barbara had joined by the release of  "The Cowsills" in 1967. Susan and Paul joined shortly after that. For the rest of the 60's, the Cowsills...

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Pop Goes the Country: Lynn Anderson (1970) and Bill Anderson (1963)

Country pop in my eyes took on two different sides. First there was the pop song that was given a bit of a country treatment, we see most of them in the 70's. The other was songs that made it so big on the Country charts that it's sales were big enough to show up on the pop charts. We are looking at two different examples of that tonight. Whisperin' Bill Anderson had a vocal delivery all his own, and used it to great success, especially in the 60's. The most popular of these was "Still" which reached #8 on the pop charts in the spring of 1963....

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Happy Birthday Harry Belafonte!!

A quick note about the bus.....if you have not become our friend on facebook, please take the time to do so. It would help me know who's out there. I will not write to you (unless you write me first at rockandrollomnibus@gmail.com). Thanks! The bus would like to wish Harry Belafonte a happy 84th birthday. Solider (in WW II), singer, actor on stage and screen, author, and civil rights activist, Harry has had a long and varied career. With all of that, he is probably best known around the world for his popularizing Calypso music here in the US....

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