This post feels like a continuation of last month's Roger Whittaker blog, in which I talked about how certain sounds evoke emotion. Classical music, especially pieces with a strong piano presence, evokes deep emotions. In particular, the piano can express such a wide range of emotions - it can be tender and delicate, or intense and dramatic. Almost like a voice of its own, it resonates and sustains notes, telling a story without words.
Classical composers like Chopin, Debussy, and Rachmaninoff were masters at using the piano to stir emotions. Chopin’s Nocturnes, Debussy’s "Clair de Lune," and Rachmaninoff’s "Elegy in E-flat Minor"—all of these pieces have that same power to transport you somewhere deeply personal. Since there are no lyrics to "tell you what to feel," your mind fills in the gaps. The emotion in classical music is open to interpretation, which makes it more personal—you might hear sadness, while someone else hears beauty or nostalgia. The way the music moves—through swelling crescendos, delicate pauses, or hauntingly repeated motifs—triggers emotions without forcing a single meaning on the listener.
One of my favorite songs since childhood is Don Henley’s "The End of the Innocence." Hearing it takes me back to simpler times, reminding me of places I visited, loved ones who are gone, and connections that have faded. Time makes me reflective, and this song amplifies that feeling. The blend of Henley’s soft vocals, poignant lyrics, and Bruce Hornsby’s elegant piano resonates deeply with me. It’s more than just a song; it’s an emotional experience.
It's a bridge to the past for me—one that instantly brings back memories of places, people, and moments that are now distant. That bittersweet mix of nostalgia and longing can be overwhelming, especially when paired with a song as beautifully melancholic as this one. The piano, in particular, has such a wistful, reflective quality, almost like it’s echoing time slipping away.
I think certain songs just hold time for us, and when we hear them, it’s like stepping into a memory. The way Don Henley delivers the lyrics, almost like a soft lament, makes the passing of time feel even more profound. It’s that rare kind of song that doesn’t just make you remember—it makes you feel the passage of time, the beauty of the past, and the weight of what’s been lost.
Music acts as a time machine, reviving the past and allowing us to revisit moments we thought were lost. "The End of the Innocence" is more than just a song; it's a portal to the people, places, and emotions that shaped those times. It uniquely preserves those memories. Sometimes I can't listen to it, but at other times I do to reflect. It's comforting to know those memories live in the music, lyrics, and emotions that resurface when I hear that song.
Sunday, March 9, 2025
Sunday, February 23, 2025
Wednesday, February 12, 2025
INXS announces ‘Listen Like Thieves 40th Anniversary Deluxe Edition’ LP and 3-CD set
INXS will release Listen Like Thieves (40th Anniversary Deluxe Edition) on May 9th via Rhino Records. The set will be available as a Deluxe Edition 3 CD/LP set containing a brand new 2025 remix by Giles Martin and Paul Hicks on CD and vinyl, extensive previously unreleased outtakes and demos, a rare BBC Recording, Live From The Royal Albert Hall, London, 1986 and a new interview with the band by acclaimed writer Paul Sexton. The Extended Edition 2 CD contains the new mix, whilst the the second disc has a selection of B-sides, remixes and live recordings. The single LP 40th Anniversary Edition vinyl contains the new 2025 mix.
This release really excites me. Demos & outtakes, the second disc, includes recordings I'm unfamiliar with, despite my extensive collection of INXS demos. Despite hearing the 1986 Royal Albert Hall show years ago, I haven't experienced the 2025 mix yet, which I am eager to hear. This remains a delightful addition, even though I already own the Listen Like Thieves LP. On my Atlantic 1985 pressing, the album title is much larger than on the 40th anniversary deluxe edition, which also features different artwork. I want this!
Source: https://ultimateclassicrock.com/inxs-listen-like-thieves-expanded/
This release really excites me. Demos & outtakes, the second disc, includes recordings I'm unfamiliar with, despite my extensive collection of INXS demos. Despite hearing the 1986 Royal Albert Hall show years ago, I haven't experienced the 2025 mix yet, which I am eager to hear. This remains a delightful addition, even though I already own the Listen Like Thieves LP. On my Atlantic 1985 pressing, the album title is much larger than on the 40th anniversary deluxe edition, which also features different artwork. I want this!
Source: https://ultimateclassicrock.com/inxs-listen-like-thieves-expanded/
Saturday, February 8, 2025
Whistling Through the Years: The Story of Roger Whittaker
Roger Whittaker, a Kenyan-born British singer-songwriter and musician, crafted an exquisite sound that beautifully merges folk and popular music. Renowned for his rich baritone voice, he gained fame not only for his captivating crooning and schlager-style melodies, but also for his remarkable whistling talent and impressive guitar skills.
Raised amidst the breathtaking beauty of Kenya, he was surrounded by a diverse array of musical inspirations, blending African rhythms with traditional folk sounds. Upon completing his education, he served with honor in the Kenya Regiment before crossing the seas to pursue medical studies in the UK. However, the allure of sharing knowledge led him to follow his true passion, ultimately committing himself to music as his full-time career.
In 1975, EMI released "The Last Farewell," a track from Whittaker's 1971 New World in the Morning album. It became his biggest hit and a signature song, selling more than 11 million copies worldwide. Whittaker was widely known for his own compositions, including "Durham Town (The Leavin')" "I Don't Believe in If Anymore," and "New World in the Morning."
Throughout his illustrious career, Whittaker amassed more than 250 awards, including silver, gold, and platinum accolades. His memorable song "Mexican Whistler" contributed to a remarkable achievement as part of a British team that triumphed at the 1967 Knokke Music Festival in Belgium, where he was honored with the Press Prize as the festival's standout personality. In 1988, he received the coveted 'Gold Badge Award' from the British Academy of Songwriters, Composers and Authors, and in 1986, he earned the esteemed Goldene Stimmgabel in Germany, a recognition determined by record sales and votes from television viewers.
Roger Whittaker on The Val Doonican Music Show in 1984:
Roger Whittaker interview with Terry Marshall:
Live version of "Mexican Whistler":
"Australian Whistler (Swaggy)," taken from Whittaker's Whistling 'round the World album:
I'm truly astonished by his ability to whistle an entire song for such a duration, hitting all those varied notes effortlessly. On top of that, he's playing the guitar simultaneously. While exploring his videos, I stumbled upon something truly fascinating, an album devoted entirely to whistling songs. Titled Whistling 'round the World and released in 1971, it showcases his incredible creativity and experimentation, weaving the art of whistling into diverse musical cultures. I absolutely love how innovative this endeavor was!
I can't whistle, so I admire anyone who can, especially Roger's talent, lol. It's extraordinary. I'm always amazed to hear something like that. This is also one of the reasons I have such a passion for music; there's always something fascinating about how sound is crafted and produced. It makes you think about all the elements that come together to create "that sound," don't you think?
What exactly is it about certain sounds that evoke emotion? How do rhythm, harmony, and even silence contribute to the overall experience? Roger’s music, for example, has a signature warmth—his deep baritone, gentle guitar playing, and, of course, that signature whistle all combine to form something instantly recognizable.
When you step back and analyze it, music is more than just notes and lyrics; it’s a carefully crafted experience, built from layers of sound that connect with people in deeply personal ways. That’s what makes it so powerful. And in Roger Whittaker’s case, his ability to use something as simple as whistling to create beauty is a testament to just how much artistry goes into making music truly special.
I hope future generations discover Roger Whittaker and other notable artists, appreciating their timeless art. Their music holds a unique power to transcend generations, bridging the past with the present and inspiring new listeners to find beauty in what has already been created.
Raised amidst the breathtaking beauty of Kenya, he was surrounded by a diverse array of musical inspirations, blending African rhythms with traditional folk sounds. Upon completing his education, he served with honor in the Kenya Regiment before crossing the seas to pursue medical studies in the UK. However, the allure of sharing knowledge led him to follow his true passion, ultimately committing himself to music as his full-time career.
In 1975, EMI released "The Last Farewell," a track from Whittaker's 1971 New World in the Morning album. It became his biggest hit and a signature song, selling more than 11 million copies worldwide. Whittaker was widely known for his own compositions, including "Durham Town (The Leavin')" "I Don't Believe in If Anymore," and "New World in the Morning."
Throughout his illustrious career, Whittaker amassed more than 250 awards, including silver, gold, and platinum accolades. His memorable song "Mexican Whistler" contributed to a remarkable achievement as part of a British team that triumphed at the 1967 Knokke Music Festival in Belgium, where he was honored with the Press Prize as the festival's standout personality. In 1988, he received the coveted 'Gold Badge Award' from the British Academy of Songwriters, Composers and Authors, and in 1986, he earned the esteemed Goldene Stimmgabel in Germany, a recognition determined by record sales and votes from television viewers.
Roger Whittaker on The Val Doonican Music Show in 1984:
Roger Whittaker interview with Terry Marshall:
Live version of "Mexican Whistler":
"Australian Whistler (Swaggy)," taken from Whittaker's Whistling 'round the World album:
I'm truly astonished by his ability to whistle an entire song for such a duration, hitting all those varied notes effortlessly. On top of that, he's playing the guitar simultaneously. While exploring his videos, I stumbled upon something truly fascinating, an album devoted entirely to whistling songs. Titled Whistling 'round the World and released in 1971, it showcases his incredible creativity and experimentation, weaving the art of whistling into diverse musical cultures. I absolutely love how innovative this endeavor was!
I can't whistle, so I admire anyone who can, especially Roger's talent, lol. It's extraordinary. I'm always amazed to hear something like that. This is also one of the reasons I have such a passion for music; there's always something fascinating about how sound is crafted and produced. It makes you think about all the elements that come together to create "that sound," don't you think?
What exactly is it about certain sounds that evoke emotion? How do rhythm, harmony, and even silence contribute to the overall experience? Roger’s music, for example, has a signature warmth—his deep baritone, gentle guitar playing, and, of course, that signature whistle all combine to form something instantly recognizable.
When you step back and analyze it, music is more than just notes and lyrics; it’s a carefully crafted experience, built from layers of sound that connect with people in deeply personal ways. That’s what makes it so powerful. And in Roger Whittaker’s case, his ability to use something as simple as whistling to create beauty is a testament to just how much artistry goes into making music truly special.
I hope future generations discover Roger Whittaker and other notable artists, appreciating their timeless art. Their music holds a unique power to transcend generations, bridging the past with the present and inspiring new listeners to find beauty in what has already been created.
Monday, January 27, 2025
The origin of "Third Rate Romance" and The Amazing Rhythm Aces
If you listened to country music in the '90s, you probably heard Sammy Kershaw's hilarious and memorable hit, "Third Rate Romance." The song, paired with its equally entertaining music video, delivers a perfect mix of humor and storytelling. Upon looking it up on YouTube, I noticed a Canadian band had also recorded it, along with a Louisiana native named Jesse Winchester.
The song was written by Russell Smith, and first recorded by Jesse Winchester and the Rhythm Aces in Montreal in 1974. It became a hit for the newly reformed Amazing Rhythm Aces with Russell Smith on vocals the following year. It appeared on the 1975 album Stacked Deck. The band's debut single reached No.11 on the U.S. country singles chart, No.14 on the Billboard Hot 100, and No.1 on the Canadian RPM Country Tracks and Top Singles charts.
Sammy Kershaw covered the song on his 1994 album Feelin' Good Train, from which it was released as a single in 1994. It peaked at No.2 in the United States country charts, and at No.10 in Canada. Russell Smith provided backing vocals on Kershaw's version.
Original version by Jesse Winchester:
Amazing Rhythm Aces version:
Amazing Rhythm Aces' debut album, Stacked Deck, was released in 1975. The album reached #11 on the US country chart and #120 on the Billboard albums chart. In Canada, it topped both the country and pop charts with "Third Rate Romance", the group's biggest hit single. The Amazing Rhythm Aces released six studio albums. The band released How the Hell Do You Spell Rythum? in 1980 before they disbanded.
In 1976, "The End Is Not in Sight (The Cowboy Tune)", from the album Too Stuffed to Jump, won a Grammy for Country Vocal Performance by a Group. In 2013, Dave Dimartino, of Rolling Stone, called the album "near classic" and said that it sounded "more contemporary than anyone might expect."
Songs I really like: "Third Rate Romance," Life's Railway to Heaven," Anything You Want," "Hit the Nail on the Head," "Who Will the Next Fool Be?" "Emma-Jean," "Mystery Train," "Typical American Boy," "The End Is Not in Sight (The Cowboy Tune)," "Out of the Snow," "Fool for the Woman." ♪♫
What I really appreciate about this group is how their music blends a bluesy, soulful vibe with a touch of country flair. Check out this live footage from Austin City Limits; they truly shine in a live setting. Austin City Limits is also a great place to see a live show!
You can make the videos larger, or click them to go directly to their YouTube videos.
Austin City Limits urls: https://austincitylimits.com/ -- https://www.aclfestival.com/
The song was written by Russell Smith, and first recorded by Jesse Winchester and the Rhythm Aces in Montreal in 1974. It became a hit for the newly reformed Amazing Rhythm Aces with Russell Smith on vocals the following year. It appeared on the 1975 album Stacked Deck. The band's debut single reached No.11 on the U.S. country singles chart, No.14 on the Billboard Hot 100, and No.1 on the Canadian RPM Country Tracks and Top Singles charts.
Sammy Kershaw covered the song on his 1994 album Feelin' Good Train, from which it was released as a single in 1994. It peaked at No.2 in the United States country charts, and at No.10 in Canada. Russell Smith provided backing vocals on Kershaw's version.
Original version by Jesse Winchester:
Amazing Rhythm Aces version:
Amazing Rhythm Aces' debut album, Stacked Deck, was released in 1975. The album reached #11 on the US country chart and #120 on the Billboard albums chart. In Canada, it topped both the country and pop charts with "Third Rate Romance", the group's biggest hit single. The Amazing Rhythm Aces released six studio albums. The band released How the Hell Do You Spell Rythum? in 1980 before they disbanded.
In 1976, "The End Is Not in Sight (The Cowboy Tune)", from the album Too Stuffed to Jump, won a Grammy for Country Vocal Performance by a Group. In 2013, Dave Dimartino, of Rolling Stone, called the album "near classic" and said that it sounded "more contemporary than anyone might expect."
Songs I really like: "Third Rate Romance," Life's Railway to Heaven," Anything You Want," "Hit the Nail on the Head," "Who Will the Next Fool Be?" "Emma-Jean," "Mystery Train," "Typical American Boy," "The End Is Not in Sight (The Cowboy Tune)," "Out of the Snow," "Fool for the Woman." ♪♫
What I really appreciate about this group is how their music blends a bluesy, soulful vibe with a touch of country flair. Check out this live footage from Austin City Limits; they truly shine in a live setting. Austin City Limits is also a great place to see a live show!
You can make the videos larger, or click them to go directly to their YouTube videos.
Austin City Limits urls: https://austincitylimits.com/ -- https://www.aclfestival.com/
Wednesday, January 1, 2025
Sometimes I feel like pourin' it all out ♪♫
I can’t help but feel sentimental this time of year as I think back to happier days. Years ago, I hadn’t lost touch with anyone, and some people I cared about were still here. Just before Thanksgiving, I learned that a very dear friend of mine had passed away in the spring of 2022. How could I not have known? Life's busy stages must have caught up with me, and as time slipped away, we stopped communicating. Several other friends have passed in the last four years, adding to the heartache of losing my grandmother in May of 2023.
I also think about all my accomplishments and how much more I still want to achieve. Will I get there? I ask myself. New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day are not just times for reflection, but also opportunities to move forward, striving toward my current goals. I’m not big on New Year’s resolutions—I find them hard to stick to—but I do focus on the future and how to navigate the path ahead.
New Year’s Eve and Day may not feel the same as they once did, but they remain meaningful. You cope as you go along, creating new memories while holding onto the lessons of the past. It’s essential to live in the moment and appreciate what you have now because it may not always be there.
Sometimes I feel like "Pourin' It All Out," and I did with this post! I thought Graham Parker's "Pourin' It All Out" was appropriate here.
"Then I found myself in a new year celebration, crying alone in a crowd,
Yeah, that really was some new year celebration, all bravado was strong and loud,
I don't mind telling you what I'm going through,
I don't mind telling you baby cause every word it true,
Sometimes I feel like pourin' it all out,
Sometimes I feel like pourin' it all out,
Sometimes I feel like pourin' it all out,
Tonight, all night, all right..." ♪♫
What great lyrics! I kicked off my New Year’s Eve with “Pourin’ It All Out,” and the night only got better from there. I ended up listening to Graham Parker’s Best Of... album, soaking in the music and having the best time. To top it all off, bursts of red, green, and gold fireworks lit up the night sky, making the evening truly unforgettable.
I also learned that in Hershey, Pennsylvania, the town raises a giant Hershey Kiss at the stroke of midnight! I already knew about the history of Hershey Park, that it was founded in 1906 by Milton S. Hershey of the Hershey Chocolate Company. But, I had no idea the town did something so special for New Year’s. I’d love to see that in person; it’s just too cool! 🎆
Happy New Year! Wishing everyone good health, prosperity, and luck in the new year. Let's make this a good one. #2025 🎉 🎊 🥂 🍾
I also think about all my accomplishments and how much more I still want to achieve. Will I get there? I ask myself. New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day are not just times for reflection, but also opportunities to move forward, striving toward my current goals. I’m not big on New Year’s resolutions—I find them hard to stick to—but I do focus on the future and how to navigate the path ahead.
New Year’s Eve and Day may not feel the same as they once did, but they remain meaningful. You cope as you go along, creating new memories while holding onto the lessons of the past. It’s essential to live in the moment and appreciate what you have now because it may not always be there.
Sometimes I feel like "Pourin' It All Out," and I did with this post! I thought Graham Parker's "Pourin' It All Out" was appropriate here.
"Then I found myself in a new year celebration, crying alone in a crowd,
Yeah, that really was some new year celebration, all bravado was strong and loud,
I don't mind telling you what I'm going through,
I don't mind telling you baby cause every word it true,
Sometimes I feel like pourin' it all out,
Sometimes I feel like pourin' it all out,
Sometimes I feel like pourin' it all out,
Tonight, all night, all right..." ♪♫
What great lyrics! I kicked off my New Year’s Eve with “Pourin’ It All Out,” and the night only got better from there. I ended up listening to Graham Parker’s Best Of... album, soaking in the music and having the best time. To top it all off, bursts of red, green, and gold fireworks lit up the night sky, making the evening truly unforgettable.
I also learned that in Hershey, Pennsylvania, the town raises a giant Hershey Kiss at the stroke of midnight! I already knew about the history of Hershey Park, that it was founded in 1906 by Milton S. Hershey of the Hershey Chocolate Company. But, I had no idea the town did something so special for New Year’s. I’d love to see that in person; it’s just too cool! 🎆
Happy New Year! Wishing everyone good health, prosperity, and luck in the new year. Let's make this a good one. #2025 🎉 🎊 🥂 🍾
Wednesday, December 18, 2024
Rewinding the Tape: Sam Goody Bids Its Last Good-bye
Sam Goody, one of the record store giants from the golden age of physical media, is set to finally shutter its last remaining brick-and-mortar stores.
In malls and shopping centers across North America, the chain became a staple of music, video, and entertainment retailers for much of the 20th century. As with many large physical media companies, its fortunes changed with the rise of the internet, digital downloads, and online shopping.
Located in St. Clairsville, Ohio, and Medford, Oregon, respectively, the chain's last two stores opened in 2022. Both are now expected to close early next year, according to reports.
Despite thinking there were no more Sam Goody's, this saddens me! My Sam Goody stores disappeared a lonnnnnng time ago. Sam Goody was one of my favorite stores in the mall. One of my lasting memories from the nineties is overhearing two workers, perfectly dressed in flannel shirts with band tees underneath, say, "R.E.M. is one of those bands everybody likes," and the other replying, "Yeah, I don't know anyone who doesn't like R.E.M." I tend to agree with them. I wonder where they are now?
Gadzooks and Coach House Gifts were also favorites. Additionally, bookstores like Waldenbooks were nice. I would definitely visit that store again if I were in Ohio or Oregon right now. Another store I liked was Hastings. My parents would always say, "Well, kiddos, we're going to Hastings!" or "We're going to the mall!" and we'd all hop in the van excitedly. My final stop was almost always Hastings if I ventured out to any other store. The candy shop was a must-visit for me, and I always tried to make time for Sam Goody.
I haven't been to the mall since before Covid. So much changed after that with social distancing, but I do go out more now. The truth is I haven't needed anything from the mall. Since the pandemic, I've been doing most of my shopping online, and go out for everything else, such as dining, entertainment, errands, and work-related tasks.
While I appreciate the convenience of online shopping, there are times when I prefer to physically visit a store and engage with products before purchasing. A click of a button simply cannot replicate the experience of touching, smelling, or trying on items. In an effort to bridge the gap between in-store and online shopping, some stores have implemented a "virtual shopping experience" where customers can connect their webcam to see how certain products would look on them, such as a new shade of lipstick or a pair of jeans. Others have taken it a step further with virtual shopping carts that allow you to navigate through virtual aisles and browse products. I even came across one with Christmas music playing in the background, adding a touch of holiday spirit to the digital world of shopping.
Instead of Sam Goody and Hastings, we now have stores like EntertainMART and the Movie Trading Company. I've visited the latter, and it reminds me a lot of Hastings in its offerings. Inside, there's a wide selection of DVDs, video games, music, and merchandise to browse through. But as they say, all good things must come to an end. Fortunately, we still have something to anticipate. :)
More on the closure of these Sam Goody stores, please see below.
Source: https://www.rollingstone.com/music/music-news/sam-goody-stores-close-1235210208/?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAR0zqfhR3j4TIvWpSaZIIM-Co7NjbcnwoplJCi5x9PTSZyst9p6KfdF7HW8_aem_83DVsqJtnNxhXNY-RV5VIg
In malls and shopping centers across North America, the chain became a staple of music, video, and entertainment retailers for much of the 20th century. As with many large physical media companies, its fortunes changed with the rise of the internet, digital downloads, and online shopping.
Located in St. Clairsville, Ohio, and Medford, Oregon, respectively, the chain's last two stores opened in 2022. Both are now expected to close early next year, according to reports.
Despite thinking there were no more Sam Goody's, this saddens me! My Sam Goody stores disappeared a lonnnnnng time ago. Sam Goody was one of my favorite stores in the mall. One of my lasting memories from the nineties is overhearing two workers, perfectly dressed in flannel shirts with band tees underneath, say, "R.E.M. is one of those bands everybody likes," and the other replying, "Yeah, I don't know anyone who doesn't like R.E.M." I tend to agree with them. I wonder where they are now?
Gadzooks and Coach House Gifts were also favorites. Additionally, bookstores like Waldenbooks were nice. I would definitely visit that store again if I were in Ohio or Oregon right now. Another store I liked was Hastings. My parents would always say, "Well, kiddos, we're going to Hastings!" or "We're going to the mall!" and we'd all hop in the van excitedly. My final stop was almost always Hastings if I ventured out to any other store. The candy shop was a must-visit for me, and I always tried to make time for Sam Goody.
I haven't been to the mall since before Covid. So much changed after that with social distancing, but I do go out more now. The truth is I haven't needed anything from the mall. Since the pandemic, I've been doing most of my shopping online, and go out for everything else, such as dining, entertainment, errands, and work-related tasks.
While I appreciate the convenience of online shopping, there are times when I prefer to physically visit a store and engage with products before purchasing. A click of a button simply cannot replicate the experience of touching, smelling, or trying on items. In an effort to bridge the gap between in-store and online shopping, some stores have implemented a "virtual shopping experience" where customers can connect their webcam to see how certain products would look on them, such as a new shade of lipstick or a pair of jeans. Others have taken it a step further with virtual shopping carts that allow you to navigate through virtual aisles and browse products. I even came across one with Christmas music playing in the background, adding a touch of holiday spirit to the digital world of shopping.
Instead of Sam Goody and Hastings, we now have stores like EntertainMART and the Movie Trading Company. I've visited the latter, and it reminds me a lot of Hastings in its offerings. Inside, there's a wide selection of DVDs, video games, music, and merchandise to browse through. But as they say, all good things must come to an end. Fortunately, we still have something to anticipate. :)
More on the closure of these Sam Goody stores, please see below.
Source: https://www.rollingstone.com/music/music-news/sam-goody-stores-close-1235210208/?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAR0zqfhR3j4TIvWpSaZIIM-Co7NjbcnwoplJCi5x9PTSZyst9p6KfdF7HW8_aem_83DVsqJtnNxhXNY-RV5VIg
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