Can you imagine being a guitar player who is James Taylor’s younger brother? I think he actually has a pretty healthy perspective on it…
Handel’s Messiah
“Messiah (HWV 56)[1][n 1] is an English-language oratorio composed in 1741 by George Frideric Handel. The text was compiled from the King James Bible and the Coverdale Psalter[n 2] by Charles Jennens. It was first performed in Dublin on 13 April 1742 and received its London premiere a year later. After an initially modest public reception, the oratorio gained in popularity, eventually becoming one of the best-known and most frequently performed choral works in Western music. Handel’s reputation in England, where he had lived since 1712, had been established through his compositions of Italian opera. He turned to English oratorio in the 1730s in response to changes in public taste; Messiah was his sixth work in this genre. Although its structure resembles that of opera, it is not in dramatic form; there are no impersonations of characters and no direct speech. Instead, Jennens’s text is an extended reflection on Jesus as the Messiah called Christ.
Continue reading “Handel’s Messiah”Paul McCartney On The Power Of Love
“In the end, the love you take is equal to the love you make.”
The Inside Story Behind “Too Much Time on My Hands”
If you’ve been singing the lines, “I’m sitting on this bar stool, talking like a damn fool, got the 12 o’clock news blues!” over and over and over during the past 10 days or so, then you’re in good company. Jimmy Fallon, the host of NBC’s uber-popular The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, has been singing the lyrics and jamming along to the song on the show on a regular basis of late, culminating in a shot-by-shot recreation of the song’s infamous 1981 video with actor Paul Rudd this past Friday, April 29, which you can view right here. “It’s the best song I’ve ever heard in my entire life,” Fallon exclaimed about “Too Much Time” to guest Adam Levine on the previous night of the show — and who can blame him? Source: Styxworld Exclusive: The Inside Story Behind “Too Much Time on My Hand | News | Styxworld
Now and Then; The Beatles drop their ‘last song’
In case you haven’t heard, the Beatles dropped their ‘last song’ yesterday. “Peter Jackson has detailed the “overwhelming” task of creating the music video for Now and Then.” Go to the source if you’re interested in knowing how Paul and Ringo used AI to complete the lost, last song: George Harrison’s son moved to tears by Now and Then
Rodrigo y Gabriela; Full Performance (Live on KEXP)
If you’ve never experienced this duet, it’s time to correct that horrible oversight!
The Elton John Band 1970-75; A Celebration of Musical Excellence
There’s no one like Elton John, especially 1970-75 Elton John. YouTuber Jon Blackstone loves him in a way I really appreciate. Treat yourself…
Walker Hayes’ Journey To Country Music Fame
I gotta love this guy! I can’t find the clip but he actually went to work at Costco to continue to pursue his dream of fame as a county music star…
“Walker Hayes is a talented American country singer and songwriter. Born and raised in Mobile, Alabama, Hayes discovered his passion for music at a young age. Influenced by various genres, including country, pop, and hip-hop, he developed a unique sound that captivates audiences.
Hayes, a determined individual, pursued his dream of becoming a musician while working in real estate. He released his debut album, “Reason to Rhyme,” in 2010, showcasing his exceptional songwriting skills. Despite initial challenges, Hayes persevered and gained a devoted following with his heartfelt music.
Hayes gained significant recognition with his breakthrough single, “You Broke Up with Me,” which reached the top of the Billboard Country Airplay chart. The song’s infectious melody and catchy lyrics helped establish him as a rising star in the country music scene. Since then, he has released several other successful singles, including “90’s Country” and “Craig.”
Known for his compelling storytelling and honest lyrics, Hayes brings a fresh and contemporary approach to country music. His music reflects his own life experiences, and he often draws inspiration from his family and personal struggles. Hayes’ ability to connect with his audience through his heartfelt songs has endeared him to fans worldwide.”
In addition to his musical talents, Hayes is also a devoted family man. He often credits his wife and their six children as his biggest inspirations in both life and music. This dedication to his family is evident in his emotional and introspective songwriting.
As Walker Hayes continues to evolve as an artist and create music that pushes boundaries, he remains an influential figure in the country music industry. With his distinctive sound, relatable lyrics, and infectious energy, Hayes has established himself as one of the brightest stars in the genre. His passion for music and genuine connection with his fans make him an artist to watch as he continues to make his mark on the world of country music.”
Effin’ love this guy!
Sinead O’Connor’s Legacy: The Art of Being Yourself
Why we curate attention yet resist being our authentic self. Source: Sinead O’Connor’s Legacy: The Art of Being Yourself
First Day in August
On the first day in August
I want to wake up by your side
After sleeping with you
On the last night in July
In the morning
We’ll catch the sun rising
And we’ll chase it from the mountains
To the bottom of the sea
When the day is over
And the night air comes to chill us
You’ll build a fire
And we’ll watch the flames dancing
You’ll fall asleep
With your arm around my shoulder
And nothing will come between us
On the first night in August
The first day in August
Top 5 ABBA Bass Lines featuring @juliahofermusic
Move over for a minute Mary Spender, Austrian bassist Julia Hofer is my new guilty pleasure!
The legacy of the one and only Tony Bennett
You haven’t accomplished much until Mo Rocca does your Obit on CBS Sunday Morning…
The Zen Wisdom of Kenny Rogers and ‘The Gambler’
An earlier post by Raffaello Palandri about control made me think about this; the simple wisdom in an old Kenny Rogers song:
You’ve got to know when to hold ’em
Know when to fold ’em
Know when to walk away
And know when to run…
Source: kenny rogers the gambler lyrics – Google Search
The Secret to Mozart’s Lasting Appeal
Dude. Seriously. There’s music and there’s Mozart…
“A new book brings Mozart down from the ether and reminds us about the context in which his music was made.” Source: The Secret to Mozart’s Lasting Appeal
The story of Layla is much weirder than you thought
The story of Pattie Boyd, Eric Clapton, and George Harrison is heartbreaking and fascinating. It led Eric and George to write some of the greatest love songs of all time such as Layla, Something, and Wonderful Tonight. This video follows their relationships in the 1960s and 1970s and the music that came out of this time.
I have posted on this topic before…
The White Stripes; Seven Nation Army [Cover by @MarySpender]
Love the song and love Mary Spender. What can go wrong? Nothing!
Descending To Nowhere with Rodrigo y Gabriela
So you like great guitarists? Your list of favorites is incomplete until you’ve experienced Rodrigo y Gabriela. My lovely friend took me to their show at the Orpheum in Madison, WI and seeing them play is an experience like none other.
Use apps like Songkick to see when they’re coming to a venue near you. You can thank me later…
Bright, shiny objects! 
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