Monthly Archives: November 2024

Johnny Rivers had 9 top-ten hits and 17 top-forty hits on the Billboard Hot 100 from 1964 to 1977. Born John Ramistella, it was legendary DJ, Alan Freed, who suggested he change his name to one easier to remember and … Continue reading →

Before John Cougar added Mellencamp to his name, he recorded for local Indiana record label, Gulcher Records, and released an EP called “U.S.Male,” revealing his more “garage grease” style. Recorded in 1976 and released in 1978, it was the style … Continue reading →

In 1964 King Records recorded James Brown live at the Royal Theater in Baltimore. The only song on the album recorded in the studio was “Oh Baby Don’t You Weep.” However, crowd noise was added to make it sound live. … Continue reading →

The Marvelettes was the first of Motown’s girl-groups to have a #1 hit on the Billboard Hot 100. It happened in 1961 with “Please Mr. Postman.” With the rise of the Supremes, the Marvelettes were given less promotion. But despite … Continue reading →

The band, Vanilla Fudge, was managed by Phillip Basile, of the reputed Lucchese crime family who operated several popular clubs in New York. Members of Vanilla Fudge were great admirers of the Beatles and covered several of their songs including, … Continue reading →

  The Trashmen are best known for their 1963 hit, “Surfin Bird.” It went all the way to number 4 on the Billboard Hot 100 despite the fact that many radio stations wouldn’t play it because of the irritating sounds … Continue reading →

As the Funk Brothers was the studio band for Motown, so was the Mar-Keys for Stax Records where some of the greatest Soul songs of the sixties were recorded. In 1961, the Mar-Keys hit #3 on the Billboard Hot 100 … Continue reading →

Jerry Seinfeld said his show was about nothing and that’s what Paul McCartney said about the Beatles’ record, “Hello Goodbye.” The song was part of the “Magical Mystery Tour” album. When released as a 45 in 1967 it became the … Continue reading →

“Hitchin a Ride” was a top-10 classic for Vanity Fare in June of 1970. If you have a copy, is the group listed as Vanity FARE or Vanity FAIR? The single, released in 1970 on Pageone Records lists the group … Continue reading →

“This Boy,” also known as, “Ringo’s Theme,” was on the first Beatles album on Capitol Records, “Meet the Beatles.” John Lennon tried to give the song a Motown feel. Paul McCartney said they were also influenced by the Phil Spector … Continue reading →