Story by Gail Nobles
Voices by Gail Nobles
Keyboardist: Gail Nobles
Photo: Wikipedia-Public Domain

Gail Nobles here, comin’ At ya straight from podcasting to your speakers! Today, we ain't rockin' around the clock, we're diggin' deep into something different. Something…well, *real*. We're talkin' about Grandmaster Flash and The Furious Five, and not just any track, but a tune that's got a raw, almost vulnerable feel – "Yesterday."

Some folks might scratch their heads. Flash and the Furious Five? Vulnerability? What's this about? Well, hold your horses, because even the toughest crews can drop their guard. This ain't your usual party rocker. This ain't "White Lines." This is *real life*, spilled out in lyrics.

Let's break it down. Verse one hits you right between the eyes. "You don't look at me the way you used to do. How I Wish you would. You don't say to me the things that you used to. How I wish you would. This ain't about Cadillacs and fly girls. This is about a relationship gone sour. It's about that feeling, that gut punch, when you know the spark has faded.

Now, the beauty of this, and where it gets its power, is in its simplicity.  "How I wish you would…" He repeats it, hammering home that sense of longing, that desperate desire to rewind the clock. This isn't some lyrical acrobatics; it's pure, unfiltered emotion. It’s that yearning for what once was.

And then that chorus hits you like a shot: "Yesterday, I was a man of pain." This guy’s not afraid to show some scars. He’s admitting to being lost, to feeling adrift.  "I bet I didn't know where I was going."  Now, isn’t that something, folks? Grandmaster Flash and The Furious Five, admitting uncertainty? It's a stark contrast to the bravado often associated with the early hip-hop scene.

The lyrics said, "Now I wish that I could find the words to say, 'Honey, I love you.'"  He can't *find* the words. They’re locked up inside. He’s struggling to express the very thing that could save the relationship.  It’s about communication breakdown, about the pain of feeling disconnected from the person you love.

"Yesterday," in the context of Grandmaster Flash and The Furious Five, might seem like an anomaly.  But it shows the depth and range these artists possessed. It tells us that even amidst the beats and the rhymes, there's always room for the human heart, broken and yearning. This ain't just music. It's a slice of life, served up raw and unfiltered. And that's what makes it good. That's what makes it REAL.

Alright, that’s all the time we got. This is Gail Nobles, podcasting off!  Until next time, stay cool. Thank you for listening to Heartily.

Photo: Public Domain Wikipedia 
Keyboardist: Gail Nobles
Story by: Gail Nobles

The Pretenders! We're talkin' about "I'll Stand by You," straight from their album, "Last of the Independents," and released back in '94. Man, time flies when you're rockin' and rollin'!
This is a hand-holding, shoulder-to-cry-on kind of number. Chrissie Hynde, bless her soul, is singing a ballad, a promise. This song's all about loyalty, stickin' with someone through thick and thin, no matter what! This record hit the charts fast! Top 20 in the US, UK, Canada... the whole shebang!

Now, let's break down those lyrics, those poetry-in-motion words! It starts right off with this, listen up!

"Oh, why you look so sad?Tears are in your eyes
Come on and come to me now
Don't be ashamed to cry"

She's seeing someone down in the dumps, right? They're heartbroken, bummed out. But she ain't turnin' away!, She’s sayin', "C'mon over here! Don't hide those tears! Let it all out!" This is pure empathy, the real McCoy. It's about showing you care, showing you see their pain.
Then comes this sweet part, the real heart of the matter:

"Let me see you through
Cause I've seen the dark side too
When the night falls on you
You don't know what to doNothing you confess
Could make me love you less"

That's a knockout! She's saying, "I understand. I've been there. I know what it's like when you're lost and confused." It's about vulnerability, showing you're not perfect either. She is showing her soul! Saying she's walked that same path. Plus, "Nothing you confess could make me love you less?" That's unconditional love! That's saying, "No matter what you've done, I'm still gonna be here for you." That's a promise worth more than a Cadillac with fins! It's pure honesty, loyalty, and love all rolled into one.

And then, the big chorus:
*"I'll stand by youI'll stand by you
Won't let nobody hurt you
I'll stand by you"*

She’s saying "I'm here. I'm not going anywhere. I'll protect you. I'll be your rock." That's what we all need, right? Someone who's got our back, someone who's gonna stand by us, come what may.

So, that's "I'll Stand by You" by The Pretenders. It's a timeless tune, a reminder that even in the darkest of times, there's always hope, always someone who cares. Keep rockin' and rollin', and remember to stand by the ones you love!

This is Gail Nobles Podcasting off for now. Thank you for listening to Heartily.

Keyboardist: Gail Nobles
Story by: Gail Nobles
Photo: Allan warren - Own work
Wikipedia: CC BY-SA 3.0

Today we’re going to talk about the soulful vibes of Dionne Warwick's amazing song, "No Night So Long." It’s a heartfelt tune that really connects with the ups and downs we all go through in life. Released back in 1980, this song highlights Dionne’s incredible voice and the catchy writing from Richard Kerr and Will Jennings.

From the very start, you can feel the warmth of Dionne's singing. The lyrics are full of hope: "Deep in the night you know that you'll find the way." Isn’t that something we can all relate to? It’s like a light shining in the dark, letting us know  that no matter how long the night feels, the morning is always just around the bend.

The gentle melody goes hand in hand with the message of not giving up. "No night so long that you can't find the day; No day so wrong that you can't find your way." That line speaks to everyone who’s faced tough times. Dionne’s rich and expressive voice captures that shared struggle and gives us some comforting wisdom. Just call on her like you used to, and she’s right there, lighting the way with her soothing sounds.

And let’s give a shout-out to Steve Buckingham for the slick production that makes the song really pop! The adult contemporary crowd loved it, helping "No Night So Long" climb the charts—it hit number 1 on the AC chart and made it to 23 on the Billboard Hot 100. That’s pretty impressive!

Dionne Warwick's "No Night So Long" is a powerful anthem for anyone feeling worn out, a reminder that even in our darkest times, there’s always a glimmer of light. So let’s celebrate this fantastic artist and her timeless message that still hits home today. Whether you’re riding high or feeling low, remember: no night is too long, and every new day brings fresh opportunities. Big thanks to Dionne for this beautiful song and reminder!

I'm Gail Nobles. You're listening to Heartily.

Photo: Hugh Pickens - Own work
Usage: Wikipedia CC BY-SA 3.0

Story by: Gail Nobles
Keyboardist: Gail Nobles

Hello music lovers! Today we’re going to talk about the soulful vibes of LTD and their fantastic album Shine On released in 1980 on the A&M label. It’s the undeniable talent of Jeffrey Osborne.

That man, Jeffrey, brings a voice to the table that just soars like an eagle. You can feel his passion and emotion pouring out of every note as he leads his band. Shine On is particularly special because it marks the farewell chapter for both Jeffrey and his brother Billy in the legendary ensembles. Can you believe it! This album captures the band at the peak of their musical powers, ready to spread their wings and fly in new directions.

Now let’s talk about it. This album offers a seamless blend of funk soul, and R&B that just makes you wanna groove. Tracks like the title song Shine On are not only uplifting, but they also touch anyone who’s ever chased their dreams. It’s all about embracing the light and letting your spirit shine bright.

And let’s not overlook the electrifying instrumentals and horn arrangements that LTD is known for. Every track bursts with energy and you can’t help but want to get up and dance. This album is a reminder of the joy that music can bring a true embodiment of that golden era of R&B.

The album peaked at No. 6 on the R&B albums chart. It also reached No. 28 on the Billboard200. The album features the singles "Where Did We Go Wrong", which peaked at No. 7 on the Hot Soul Singles chart.

Jeffrey Osborne and LTD have crafted something timeless here, a sweet farewell that radiates positivity and groove.

I’m Gail Nobles and you’re listening to Heartily.

Keyboardist: Gail Nobles
Story by: Gail Nobles

Don’t Stop This Feeling is a song by GQ. The singer is saying "Don’t let this feeling fade away!” They’re pleading for that magical moment to stick around because it’s pure bliss.

The heart of the lyrics is about longing for someone special. Their spirit is what brings happiness and makes everything feel alive. It’s an anthem of wanting to hold onto those unforgettable moments and the joy that comes from being with the one you love with every beat. It’s a reminder to cherish that magic and keep those good feelings flowing.

You may know GQ from their biggest hit in 1979 entitled Disco Nights (Rock-Freak). The follow up was Billy Stewart’s remake. “I Do Love You” which was also successful. Their music wasn’t just about disco. Their music was also R&B and soul.
 
When you get a chance, give their song ‘Don’t Stop This Feeling’ a listen from their disco album entitled Two.

I’m Gail Nobles and you’re listening to Heartily a podcast about love songs.

Keyboardist: Gail Nobles
Story by: Gail Nobles

In Earth, Wind and Fire’s song After the Love Has Gone, the piano and brass ends differently. The piano has more soft conclusion while the brass sound adds a powerful and emotional sound. The ending of the piano and brass create a distinct contrast. The Earth, Wind and Fire band has a unique sound for listeners. It's very creative how the musicians play together. The band’s style and techniques in playing instruments and playing two different endings with the piano and brass adds complexity and texture.

 After the Love Has Gone is a song by Earth, Wind and Fire released in 1979 as the second single from their ninth studio album I Am. The song reached No. 2 on both the US Billboard Hot 100 and the Billboard Hot R&B Singles chart, No. 3 on the Billboard Adult Contemporary chart, and No. 4 on the UK Singles Chart. “After the Love Has Gone" was certified gold in the US by the RIAA and silver in the UK by the BPI.

 The song After the Love Has Gone can put you in an emotional longing mood. The lyrics send out a message about lost love. Not all listeners may feel sad listening to the song, but it might make you think of your love when he or she is not around.

 The smooth instrumentation and soulful vocals add a layer of emotional depth. Anyone who has been through heartbreak can relate to the song.

 I'm Gail Nobles, and you're listening to Heartily.

Intro by: Gail Nobles
Photo: John Mathew Smith
Usage: Wikipedia CC BY-SA 2.0

 “So Far Away” is a song written by Carole King, which appeared on her 1971 album Tapestry. The recording features James Taylor on acoustic guitar. In addition to Taylor, and King on piano, instruments include Russ Kunkel on drums, Charles Larkey on bass guitar and Curtis Amy on flute.

 The lyrics express longing for a lover who is far away. When I listen to the song, it makes me feel the meaning of distance and sadness. The music and voice expresses the lyrics.
 In 1971, So Far Away by Carole King entered US Billboards Hot 100 chart at peak position number 14.

In 1995, Rod Stewart's cover of the song was included on the tribute album Tapestry Revisited: A Tribute to Carole King.

 I'm Gail Nobles. You're listening to HEARTILY. A podcast about love songs from the heart.

Music Intro: Keyboardist Gail Nobles

"Love Will Conquer All" is a track from Lionel Richie's 1986 album Dancing on the Ceiling featuring Marva King on backing vocals. The song was written by Richie along with Greg Phillinganes and Cynthia Weil. "Love Will Conquer All" was Richie's tenth number one on the Adult Contemporary chart. The single spent two weeks at number one and peaked at number nine on the Billboard Hot 100. "Love Will Conquer All" also went to number two for two weeks on the soul chart

The song is my favorite song from Lionel Richie's album Dancing on the Ceiling from the Motown label. I love the beat of the song and the backing vocals. I love the words and instruments that were played. Lionel Richie has done a great job singing the song and made a great music video for the song. 


I'm Gail Nobles. Thank you for listening to Heartily: A podcast about love songs that come from the heart.

Story by: Gail Nobles
Music intro: Keyboardist Gail Nobles
Vocals: Gail Nobles

Photo: John Matthew Smith
Usage: CC BY-SA 4.0
https://flic.kr/p/2gvC3gQ

The song Lay Your Feelings on Me came from Billy Preston 14th studio album “The Way I Am” The album was released in 1981. Lay Your Feelings on Me is a beautiful love song I've never heard before. It's a song written by Helen Lewis and Kay Lewis. The producer is Berry Gordy. And the album the song came from is on the Motown label. I’ve learned something else that's new to me. I never knew that Billy Preston was on the Motown label.

 The song Lay your feelings on me touched me when I heard it. The song is a song you can feel. The words have meaning. I love the way Billy Preston played the keyboard. I love the way he sang.

 Billy Preston was a keyboardist, singer, and songwriter. His genres were R&B, soul, and gospel. You might remember him from his songs Nothing from Nothing and Will It Go Round In Circles. He played music and recorded with the Beatles.

 I'm Gail Nobles you're listening to Heartily.