NORMAN GREENBAUM

‘THE LOST INTERVIEWS’ with RAY SHASHO

EPISODE 13

-INTERVIEWED Dec 6th 2011

"When I die and they lay me to rest

Gonna go to the place that’s the best

When I lay me down to die

Goin’up to the spirit in the sky"

Norman Greenbaum is considered by many music experts to be a one-hit wonder.  But when the lyrics to that hit meant so much to so many and with eternal impact… then who cares?

Greenbaum’s “Spirit In The Sky” echoed an inspirational message of optimism for hope of an afterlife. The song reached #3 on the Billboard charts and sold two million singles by 1970, and during an important transitional period in music that witnessed Album-Oriented Rock formats overshadowing Top 40 singles on the airwaves.

Greenbaum created one of the most recognizable guitar riffs in rock and roll history using an industrial fuzz tone. Released in 1969, “Sprit In The Sky” has stood the test of time. Greenbaum states, “Motorists actually still pull over to the side of the road when they hear the song being played on the radio.” And the song continues to be a heavily requested tune at funerals.

Rolling Stone magazine ranked “Spirit In The Sky,” #341 on the list of top ‘500 Greatest Songs of All Time.’ Countless musicians have mimicked their version of the celestial composition including Elton John, DC Talk, Darrel Mansfield, The Stovall Sisters (The back-up singers on the original recording), Doctor and the Medics, Nina Hagen, and Norman’s favorite cover version, The Kentucky Headhunters. 

“Spirit In The Sky” has been featured in countless movies, TV series and commercials. The song has also been spotlighted on the 2008 music video game- Rock Band 2, enlightening a whole new generation of “Spirit” advocates.

Norman Greenbaum began a music career as a member of Dr. West’s Medicine Show and Junk Band. Their sole hit was, “The Eggplant that Ate Chicago” (#52 on Billboard’s top 100) in 1966. Greenbaum departed the band and began a solo career under the direction of producer Erik Jacobsen (Lovin’ Spoonful, Sopwith Camel, Chris Issak).

Raised of the Jewish faith, Greenbaum states that there wasn’t much resentment from the Jewish Community over his Christian-like lyrics, especially his reference to Jesus. The only true criticism came from the Christian side who were not very pleased with his lyric… “Never been a sinner I never sinned.” Greenbaum says, “I just didn’t know better at the time.”

Today Norman Greenbaum is 69 years old and lives in Northern California. His 1969 metaphysical one- hit wonder continues to be adored and emulated by countless fans. Most recently Peter Frampton covered “Spirit In The Sky” on William Shatner’s latest album, Seeking Major Tom.

Norman enjoys sponsoring races at the local fair. He says, “All it consists of is getting around thirty friends together, having a party, and getting your picture taken with the winning racehorse.” He’s also won a bunch of blue ribbons entering various works.

Here’s my interview with Songwriter/Vocalist/Guitarist/Rock and Roll Icon/ and a very amusing and hip guy… Norman Greenbaum. (We had to reschedule the original interview date because Mr. Greenbaum was feeling a bit under the weather).

Support us on PayPal!

TRINI LOPEZ

(May 15, 1937 – August 11, 2020)

‘THE LOST INTERVIEWS’ WITH RAY SHASHO

EPISODE 12

Interviewed November 28th 2014

Trini Lopez is an international music legend best known for recording classic covers and converting them into danceable songs by adding his own special spin and flavor. Lopez not only makes those notable tunes danceable, but he usually outsells all other artists who have also covered those songs including the recordings by the original songwriters.    

Born in Dallas, Texas, his Father Trinidad Lopez II was a singer, dancer, actor, and musician in Mexico. Trini’s parents moved to Dallas when his dad was eighteen seeking a better life. Trini learned to play guitar from his father and played for money on street corners. He eventually began performing in clubs around the affluent parts of Dallas. Lopez even performed at a club owned by the notorious Jack Ruby.

A true rock and roll visionary … Lopez uncannily wrote and recorded a song called “The Right to Rock” released on a small label called Volk Records in 1958. After hearing the single, King Records offered Trini a three-year contract. The only chart hit for Lopez on the King Records label was a Skyliners cover called “Since I Don’t Have You,” Trini’s rendition reached #10 on the Cashbox and Billboard charts.

After one of Trini’s performances Lopez met with another Texan, rock and roll pioneer Buddy Holly. Holly tried to help Trini by inviting him to meet with his record producer in Clovis, New Mexico. Lopez became great friends with Buddy Holly and The Crickets. Holly was killed in a plane crash along with Richie Valens and The Big Bopper on February 3rd 1959. Several months after the crash, Lopez received a phone call to come out to Hollywood, California to become the new lead singer of The Crickets.

The Crickets plans never materialized and Lopez took a job at the Ye Little Club in Beverly Hills. The one-year run led to a historic engagement at the famous PJ’S nightclub. It was at PJ’S where Lopez landed his big break. Frank Sinatra took notice of Trini’s one-man act and had Don Costaoffer him an eight-year recording contract on Sinatra’s label Reprise Records.  Trini’s first two albums were recorded live at PJ’S and successfully launched an incredible music and acting career for the impending international superstar.

Trini’s most recognizable Hit Singles … “If I Had a Hammer” (#3 Billboard U.S. Hit-1963 -Reached #1 in 36 countries), “I'm Coming Home Cindy” (#39 Billboard Hit-1966), “Michael, (#42 Billboard Hit-1964), “Lemon Tree” (#20 Billboard Hit-1965) “Kansas City” (#23 Billboard Hit-1963), “America,” “La Bamba”(1966) “Gonna Get Along With Out Ya’ Now” (1967),  and The Bramble Bush (1967) to name just a few.

(Trini’s music was also spotlighted on various soundtracks including... Apollo 13, Born on the Fourth of July and numerous others).

Trini Lopez acting career …

Marriage on the Rocks (1965), The Dirty Dozen (1967), The Phynx (1970), The Reluctant Heroes (TV Movie -1971), Adam-12 (TV Series 1971-1972), Antonio (1973), The Mystery of the Silent Scream (1977), The Hardy Boys/Nancy Drew Mysteries (TV Series 1977).

Trini Lopez incredible string of TV appearances …

The Greatest Ever War Films (TV Movie documentary) 2014, Trini Lopez Presents Latin Music Legends (TV Movie) 2009, American High School (Video) 2009, Armed and Deadly: The Making of 'The Dirty Dozen' (Video documentary short) 2006, The Best of Music Flashback Television Shows: Featuring Music Scene and Hullabaloo (Video documentary short) 2001, Refrescante 95 (TV Series) 1995, Prima Donnas  1995, Querida Concha (TV Series) 1993, ,Musikladen (TV Series) 1981, A Gift of Music (TV Movie) 1981, Sha Na Na (TV Series) 1978, 1971-1976 The Mike Douglas Show (TV Series), 1976 Celebration: The American Spirit (TV Movie), 1975 Rock on with 45 (TV Series), 1970-1974 The Merv Griffin Show (TV Series), Caesar's Palace Week from Las Vegas (1974), 1972-1974 Stand Up and Cheer (TV Series)

1965-1973 The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson (TV Series), 1971-1972 The David Frost Show (TV Series),1970 The Dick Cavett Show (TV Series), 1970 Playboy After Dark (TV Series), 1968-1970 The Carol Burnett Show (TV Series),1967-1969 The Joey Bishop Show (TV Series),1968 The Song Is You (TV Movie), 1967 Operation Dirty Dozen (Short documentary),1967 Spotlight (TV Series),1967 The London Palladium Show (TV Series),1967 The Dean Martin Show (TV Series),1966-1967 The Andy Williams Show (TV Series),1967 Gypsy (TV Series),1966The Jack Benny Hour (TV Movie),1966 Hippodrome (TV Series) Host

1966 Danger Grows Wild, 1966 The Sammy Davis, Jr. Show (TV Series),1965-1966 Hullabaloo (TV Series) (Host), 1965 Marriage on the Rocks, 1965 What's My Line? (TV Series) - Mystery Guest, 1964-1965 The Ed Sullivan Show (TV Series), 1964-1965 The Hollywood Palace (TV Series), 1964 The Bob Hope Show (TV Series),1964 The Bob Hope Thanksgiving Special (TV Special), 1963 Celebrity Party (TV Movie)

The Gibson guitar company asked Trini Lopez to design a guitar for them in 1964. The Trini Lopez Standard, a rock and roll model based on the Gibson ES-335 semi-hollow body, and the Lopez Deluxe, a variation of a Gibson jazz guitar designed by Barney Kessel. Both were in production from 1964 until 1971 and are highly sought out collector items. Some owners of the guitar include Dave Grohl of Foo Fighters and Noel Gallagher of Oasis.

Trini’s last few albums … (2008) ‘Ramblin' Man’ and (2011) ‘Into the Future’ have been critically acclaimed. ‘Into the Future’ was Trini’s 65th celebrated album of his illustrious musical career.

Here’s my latest interview with the legendary singer, musician, songwriter, actor, and one of the most exciting and recognized entertainers worldwide …TRINI LOPEZ

Support us on PayPal!

ENGELBERT HUMPERDINK

'THE LOST INTERVIEWS'

WITH RAY SHASHO

EPISODE 11

British entertainer Arnold George Dorsey (stage name Gerry Dorsey) had limited success as a singer, but in 1967 Engelbert Humperdinck became an overnight sensation and a household name worldwide. Humperdinck recorded one of the best-selling singles of all-time; a number-one hit song entitled “Release Me,” which thwarted The Beatles efforts of reaching the top of the charts with their double A-sided record, “Strawberry Fields Forever /Penny Lane.” “Release Me” held the number-one slot on the UK Pop charts for six weeks and remained on the charts for a record fifty-six consecutive weeks, selling 80,000 copies a day. Humperdinck superseded the success of “Release Me” with “There Goes My Everything” and “The Last Waltz, “sweeping the Top 40 Pop charts that same year.

Engelbert’s charisma, good looks and magnificent vocals mirrored performers such as Elvis Presley and Tom Jones, and it quickly became evident that a new singing sensation had conquered and charmed the music world. Humperdinck’s sex appeal captivated a huge female fanbase which became known as the Humperdinckers, and throughout the 70’s, Humperdinck sustained the hits on the Top 40 airwaves …“Am I That Easy to Forget,” “A Man Without Love (Quando M’Innamoro),” “Les Bicyclettes de Belsize,” “The Way It Used To Be,” “I'm A Better Man (For Having Loved You),” “Winter World of Love,” “Sweetheart,”  ”When There’s No You,” and “Another Time, Another Place.”

Engelbert Humperdinck’s albums released throughout the 60’s and 70’s …

Humperdinck relentlessly toured the world in front of adoring sold-out audiences and became a hot commodity and mainstay attraction on the Las Vegas and Atlantic City Strips. When he wasn’t on the road, he’d be in the recording studio generating the hits. His last major Pop hit on the Top 40 charts came in 1976 with the brilliant and graceful “After The Lovin’” composed by Ritchie Adams and written by Alan Bernstein. In 1979, Humperdinck spawned his fourth number-one hit on the Easy Listening charts in the U.S. with, yet another Adams/ Bernstein composition entitled “This Moment In Time.” In 1983, Engelbert released his last charted single “Til You and Your Lover Are Lovers Again.”

In 1999, Humperdinck released The Dance Album which featured newly recorded dance versions of six of Engelbert's greatest hits, along with five original songs. The album landed in the Top Ten on the Billboard Dance charts.

Most Recently: Engelbert Humperdinck released his highly anticipated and critically acclaimed double-CD entitled… “Engelbert Calling” which features incredible duets with some of the world’s most recognized names in music … including Elton John, Willie Nelson, Olivia Newton-John, Gene Simmons, and many-more. The album is released by OK! Good Records, and produced by Grammy Award-winner Martin Terefe, who is well-known for his work with Jason Mraz, James Morrison, KT Tunstall, and Mary J Blige. … I gave “Engelbert Calling” by Engelbert Humperdinck (5) Stars!

Engelbert Humperdinck’s career spanned nearly five decades. He’s sold more than 150- million albums world-wide, including 24 certified with platinum status and 63 with gold, four Grammy nominations, a Golden Globe for “Entertainer of the Year” (1988), and earned a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Engelbert has solidified his name as an international Pop legend and has established himself as one of the world’s most influential artists.

At 78, Humperdinck continues to tour the world and record in the studio, and like a fine wine, he just keeps getting better. Engelbert is happily married to Patricia, his wife of 50 years. The couple has 4 children and 9 grandchildren. He’s managed by his son Scott Dorsey/Dorsey Productions.

I had the wonderful pleasure of chatting with one of my favorite singers about his critically acclaimed release … ‘Engelbert Calling’ …Engelbert’s follow-up releases upcoming ... The current world tour …The early days… ‘The Humperdinckers’ … Befriending ‘Elvis’ …And Much-Much More! Here’s my interview with an internationally renowned singer, songwriter, entertainer, a true gentleman and a really nice guy...

Support us on PayPal!

T BEAR AKA/RICHARD T BEAR RELEASES NEW ALBUM ‘THE WAY OF THE WORLD’

AND NEW SINGLE “A CHANGE WILL DO ME GOOD”

ZOOM SPECIAL EVENT ON INTERVIEWING THE LEGENDS

Hello everyone and welcome to another edition of Interviewing the Legends I’m your host Ray Shasho.

T Bear boasts a career that spans more than 40 years, one that led to a string of noted solo albums and collaborations with a dizzying list of revered artists. In 1978, he signed with RCA Records and released his debut album, Red, Hot, and Blue, produced by Jack Richardson (Bob Seger, The Guess Who). 

He has appeared on numerous recordings by iconic artists including Crosby, Stills and Nash's Southern Cross, The Blues Brothers Soundtrack, Richie Havens Mixed Bag II, Kiss members Gene Simmons and Peter Criss' solo ventures, as well as Toby Beau’s hit single My Angel Baby, Billy Squier’s solo debut Tale of the Tape, and projects by former Rascals members Gene Cornish and Dino Danelli.  

He would also pen the song Love and Pain, one of the standout tracks on Cher's blockbuster album Take Me Home.  He has shared the stage with artists such as Richie Havens, Odetta, The Doobie Brothers, and Jeff Beck, to name a few.

In 1983, he took a lengthy hiatus from making music to get his personal life in order before returning to action in 2017 when he began creating the songs that would eventually turn out to be his well-received comeback album entitled, Fresh Bear Tracks, which was released on Quarto Valley Records in 2021.

Fast forward to the present and T Bear is excited about the new album.  As he puts it, “Making The Way of the World was like getting a new pair of glasses. I see everything more clearly and in focus around me. These are songs that made me think and dream. It’s an oasis for the mind.”

PLEASE WELCOME SINGER/SONGWRITER/KEYBOARDIST/COMPOSER T BEAR AKA/RICHARD T. BEAR TO INTERVIEWING THE LEGENDS.

PURCHASE

THE NEW RELEASE

BY

T BEAR

Entitled

THE WAY OF THE WORLD

available at

amazon.com

and

https://icons.quartovalleyrecords.com/shop/

Quarto Valley Records

Video to the first single

 “A Change Will Do Me Good”  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a_wPPCJf9-A

FOR MORE INFORMATION

ABOUT

T BEAR

VISIT

https://www.tbear.rocks/

Official website

https://www.facebook.com/richardtbear88

Facebook

https://www.instagram.com/richard_tbear/

Instagram

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQV7XbQdA1ynEp34gw8EMmA

YouTube

https://twitter.com/tbeartracks

Twitter

https://open.spotify.com/artist/0bstvTCExOsEEw0tMQjb07?si=qW9eAQyTSQqPekF3axHedQ&nd=1

Spotify

https://rock.quartovalleyrecords.com/t-bear/

Quarto Valley Records

RICHARD T BEAR

DISCOGRAPHY

albums

Red, Hot & Blue 1978

Bear 1979

Captured Alive 1979

The Bear Truth 1984

The Runner 1986

Fresh Bear Tracks 2021

The Way of the World 2024

Support us on PayPal!

THE FABULOUS THUNDERBIRDS CELEBRATE 50TH ANNIVERSARY 

WITH NEW ALBUM ‘STRUCK DOWN’

ZOOM SPECIAL EVENT WITH FRONTMAN KIM WILSON ON INTERVIEWING THE LEGENDS

Hello everyone and welcome to another edition of Interviewing the Legends I’m your host Ray Shasho.

The Fabulous Thunderbirds, who will celebrate their 50th anniversary with the release of their first studio album in eight years, Struck Down, on June 28th. The album’s first single, “Payback Time,” featuring Billy Gibbons, is out now.

Struck Down also features special guests Bonnie Raitt, Taj Mahal, Keb’ Mo’ and Mick Fleetwood on the album’s lone cover song, a scintillating take on Memphis Minnie’s “Nothing in Rambling.” Additional contributions on the new disc come from Elvin Bishop, Terrance Simien and Canadian blues guitar ace Steve Strongman, who co-wrote with Kim Wilson nine of the album’s 10 tracks.

Formed in 1974, The Fabulous Thunderbirds is a familiar name for anyone into contemporary blues and blues rock.  This is the band that created classic albums like T-Bird Rhythm and Tuff Enuff. Powered by hits like the title track and “Wrap It Up,” Tuff Enuff went platinum, selling more than one million copies. Led by founding member Kim Wilson, The Fabulous Thunderbirds have been nominated for Grammy Awards six times and for Blues Music Awards more than 20 times.  The Fabulous Thunderbirds continue to tour internationally, selling out venues and headlining festivals with the current line-up of Kim Wilson on vocals and harmonica, Johnny Moeller on guitar, Bob Welsh on keyboards and guitar, Rudy Albin on drums and Steve Kirsty on bass.

Please welcome American blues singer and harmonica player, best known as the frontman and band leader of the Fabulous Thunderbirds KIM WILSON to Interviewing the Legends …

PREORDER

 THE NEW ALBUM

BY

THE FABULOUS THUNDERBIRDS

Entitled

‘STRUCK DOWN’

The Fabulous Thunderbirds Celebrate 50th Anniversary with the Release of First Studio Album in Eight Years, Struck Down, Coming June 28th on Stony Plain Records

Listen to the first single “Payback Time.”

(featuring Billy Gibbons)

Pre-Order/Pre-Save the Album

https://stonyplainrecords.com/fabulousthunderbirds/

“The Very Best Fabulous Thunderbirds album to date! Grammy worthy! This album has it all…

legendary guest artists, and every track is a great track! Several may already be considered classics.”

5 stars

… By Music Journalist Ray Shasho

FOR MORE INFORMATION

ABOUT

KIM WILSON

AND

THE FABULOUS THUNDERBIRDS

VISIT

https://fabulousthunderbirds.com/

Official website

https://www.facebook.com/fabulousthunderbirds/

Facebook

https://www.instagram.com/fabuloustbirds/

Instagram

https://twitter.com/ThunderFabulous

Twitter

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCfAXkyD5vxFXypN4ZqcF-kQ/featured

YouTube

THE FABULOUS THUNDERBIRDS

IN CONCERT

JUL  3 Healdsburg, CA Raven Performing Arts Theater 8:00 PM

JUL  5 Nicasio, CA Rancho Nicasio 4:00 PM

JUL 6 Napa, CA Blue Note Napa 6:30 PM

JUL   6 Napa, CA Blue Note Napa 9:00 PM

JUL   12 Mequon, WI Gathering on the Green 6:30 PM

JUL 12 Mequon, WI Gathering on the Green 8:30 PM

JUL  30 Cologne Luxor 8:00 PM

JUL  29 Nuremberg Hirsch 8:00 PM

Discography

With The Fabulous Thunderbirds

Albums

The Fabulous Thunderbirds (1979)

What's the Word (1980)

Butt Rockin' (1981)

T-Bird Rhythm (1982)

Tuff Enuff (1986)

Hot Number (1987)

Powerful Stuff (1989)

Walk That Walk, Talk That Talk (1991)

Roll of the Dice (1995)

High Water (1997)

Painted On (2005)

Thunderbirds! (2009, sold only at shows)

On the Verge (2013)

Strong Like That (2016)

Struck Down (2024)

Compilation albums

Portfolio (1987)

The Essential... (1991)

Hot Stuff: The Greatest Hits (1992)

Wrap It Up (1993)

The Fabulous Thunderbirds/What's the Word (1993)

Butt Rockin'/T-Bird Rhythm (1993)

Different Tacos (1996)

The Best of the Fabulous Thunderbirds (1997)

Tuff Enuff/Powerful Stuff (1999)

Thunderbirds Tacos Deluxe (2003)

The Best of the Fabulous Thunderbirds: Early Birds Special (2011)

The Bad and Best of... (2013)

Live albums

Live from London (1985)

Live [AKA Invitation Only] (2001)

Singles

"Tuff Enuff" (1986) No. 10 US, No. 83 AUS[13]

"Wrap It Up" (1986) No. 50 US

"Why Get Up" (1986)

"Stand Back" (1987) No. 76 US

"How Do You Spell Love" (1987)

"Wasted Tears" (1988)

"Powerful Stuff" (1988) No. 65 US

"Knock Yourself Out" (1989)

Solo

1993: Tigerman (Antone's)

1994: That's Life (Antone's)

1997: My Blues (Blue Collar)

2001: Smokin' Joint (M.C. Records)

2003: Looking for Trouble (M.C. Records)

2006: My Blues Sessions: Kim's Mix, Volume I (Bluebeat)

2017: Blues and Boogie, Vol. 1 (Severn)

2020: Take Me Back - The Bigtone Sessions (M.C. Records)

Guest

Ronnie Earl, Smokin' (1983)

Roomful of Blues, Dressed Up To Get Messed Up (1984)

Ronnie Earl, They Call Me Mr. Earl (1984)

Ron Levy's Wild Kingdon, Ron Levy's Wild Kingdom (1988)

People Get Ready – A Tribute to Curtis Mayfield (1993)

Snuff Johnson, Will The Circle Be Unbroken (Black Magic Records, 1994)

Bonnie Raitt, Road Tested (1995)

Kid Ramos, Kid Ramos (1999)

James Cotton, 35th Anniversary Jam of the James Cotton Blues Band (Telarc, 2001)

Big Jack Johnson, The Memphis Barbecue Sessions (2002)

JW-Jones, Bogart's Bounce (guest, 2002)

JW-Jones, My Kind of Evil (producer and guest, 2004)

Wentus Blues Band, Family Album (Bluelight Records, 2004)

Barrelhouse Chuck, Got My Eyes on You (2007)

Omar Kent Dykes & Jimmie Vaughan, Jimmy Reed Highway (2007)

Louisiana Red, Back to the Black Bayou (Ruf Records, 2008)

Elvin Bishop, The Blues Rolls On (2008)

Eric Clapton, Clapton (Reprise, 2010)

Mark Knopfler, Privateering (2012)

Smokin' Joe Kubek & Bnois King, Road Dog's Life (Delta Groove Productions, 2013)

Barrelhouse Chuck, Driftin' From Town To Town (2013)

The Robert Cray Band, 4 Nights of 40 Years (2015)

Buddy Guy, Born to Play Guitar (2015)

Thornetta Davis, Honest Woman (2016)

Peter Karp, Blue Flame (2018)

Ash Grunwald, Mojo (2019)

Support us on PayPal!

BURTON CUMMINGS

THE LEGENDARY VOICE OF THE GUESS WHO

'THE LOST INTERVIEWS'

EPISODE 10

Burton Cummings is the legendary voice, songwriter, and keyboardist for Canada’s own classic rock superstars The Guess Who. Although the group has had numerous personnel changes throughout the years, the most prominent members have been Burton Cummings and guitarist Randy Bachman.  Cummings was born and raised in Winnipeg, Manitoba. His first band was an R&B group called The Deverons. The band released two singles on the REO Records label.  In 1965, Cummings joined The Guess Who replacing Bob Ashley on keyboards and eventually Chad Allan on vocals. The Guess Who scored commercially with their first international hit “These Eyes” (#6 Billboard Hit) in 1969. The track was featured on their album Wheatfield Soul on the RCA record label. The single was written by Bachman/Cummings and was their first to reach the top ten.  The Guess Who followed with a succession of Top 40 hits including … “Laughing” (#10 U.S. Hit, #1Canada -written by Bachman/Cummings) and “Undun” (#22 U.S. Hit). 1970 would prove to be the most pivotal year for The Guess Who. The group scored (2) #1 Hits in the U.S. with “No Sugar Tonight/New Mother Nature" and “American Woman” the group’s biggest selling single. The Guess Who also spawned the hits …. “No Time” (#5 U.S. #1 Canada -written by Bachman/Cummings), “Hand Me Down World” (#17 U.S. Hit) and “Share The Land” (#10 U.S. Hit -written by Burton Cummings).  Randy Bachman left The Guess Who in 1970 and would eventually form Bachman- Turner Overdrive. Subsequent albums released by The Guess Who … Canned Wheat (1969), American Woman (1970), Share The Land (1970), So Long, Bennatyne (1971), Rockin’ (1972), Artificial Paradise (1973). In 1973, Burton Cummings and The Guess Who released one of the group’s most underrated albums entitled The Guess Who #10. The album was a clear diversion from the band’s roots but spotlighted brilliant lyrical content and virtuoso musicianship. The album featured Burton Cummings composition “Glamour Boy.” The track was a jab at David Bowie’s glitter rock insurgence. The album also featured the profound “Cardboard Empire” written by Bill Wallace and Kurt Winter, while hauntingly performed by Cummings.  In 1974, The Guess Who collaborated on their final Top 40 single entitled “Clap For The Wolfman,” (#6 U.S. Billboard Hit) an applicable tribute to legendary radio and TV personality Wolfman Jack.  Subsequent releases: The Guess Who #10 (1973), Road Food (1974), Flavours (1974), Power in the Music (1975), The Way They Were (1976).

The Guess Who disbanded in 1975. In 1983, Bachman, Cummings, Jim Kale and Garry Peterson reunited as The Guess Who to play a series of Canadian gigs and recorded the Together Again live album and video.  Bachman and Cummings reunited again in 1997 to perform in Winnipeg for a disaster relief fund raiser.  An eclectic Guess Who reunion ensued in 2000 featuring Bachman, Cummings, McDougall, Kale, and Peterson. Bill Wallace eventually replaced Kale while the group toured regularly through 2003. A live album and DVD followed at the end of the 2000 tour.

The Guess Who was inducted into Canada’s Walk of Fame in 2001. Cummings received an additional Star in 2011. The Guess Who performed for an estimated 450,000 people at Molson Canadian Rocks for Toronto, a benefit concert in 2003.  The Guess Who continues to tour with only original members … drummer Garry Peterson and bassist Jim Kale. Burton Cummings also amassed a widely successful solo career. He landed a huge hit with “Stand Tall” (#10 U.S. #1 Hit Canada) in 1976.  Burton Cummings solo albums …Burton Cummings (1976), My Own Way to Rock (1977), Dream of a Child (1978), Woman Love (1980), The Best of Burton Cummings (1980), Sweet Sweet (1981), Heart (1984), Plus Signs (1990), The Burton Cummings Collection (1994), Up Close and Alone (1996), Above the Ground (2008).

In 2002, The Burton Cummings Theatre for the Performing Arts in Winnipeg, Manitoba was renamed to dedicate the singer and songwriter.  In 2008, Cummings released the highly- acclaimed CD Above The Ground. All the tracks on the release are written by Cummings. The album also features his touring band The Carpet Frogs. In 2009, Cummings received the Order of Canada, one of the country’s highest civilian honors.  In 2012, Burton Cummings Massey Hall was released –an incredible live CD recorded in Toronto.  Most recently … Burton Cummings is on a summer tour. He’ll be releasing a book of poetry soon entitled, ‘The Writings of B. L. Cummings,’ and a video series called RUFF.  I had the rare opportunity to chat with Burton Cummings recently about the summer tour, the true origin of “American Woman,” The life and times of The Guess Who, Canada, Wolfman Jack and so much more!

Here’s my interview with singer, songwriter, musician, and legendary voice of 'The Guess Who' …BURTON CUMMINGS.

Support us on PayPal!

DAN McCAFFERTY THE VOICE OF NAZARETH

 October 14, 1946 – November 8, 2022

'THE LOST INTERVIEWS'

EPISODE 9

Scottish Rocker Dan McCafferty has been the quintessential and charismatic frontman for hard rock veterans Nazareth since the band’s inception in 1968. McCafferty has fired up live audiences across the globe for 45 years with a heavy dose of undisputed hardcore crooning power. Most recently McCafferty has retired from touring with Nazareth due to a lung disease that makes breathing extremely difficult called COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease). Dan McCafferty will pass the microphone over to Nazareth’s new frontman, 41-year-old Linton Osborne of Rosyth, Scotland. McCafferty will cease touring but will not cease recording in the studio. In fact, McCafferty and Nazareth have recently released a mammoth new hard rock gem entitled ‘Rock ‘N’ Roll Telephone.’ The album features Dan McCafferty on lead vocals, Pete Agnew on bass, Jimmy Murrison on guitars, and Lee Agnew on drums. It’s the band’s 23rd studio album and their first since 2011.The CD features 11 original heavy rockers and bluesy ballads. The deluxe digipack edition will include a second disc with two additional studio recordings and five live tracks and will also be available in a double LP gatefold vinyl version.

Invigorating and commanding hardcore rock ‘n’ roll are back, just the way we remembered it ...It's the rock we all listened to and partied with in high school …I gave ‘Rock ‘N’ Roll Telephone’ by Nazareth (5) Stars.

NAZARETH: Over the years …critics and music aficionados alike have correlated Dan McCafferty’s vocal styles with such artists as AC/DC’s Brian Johnson, Slade’s Noddy Holder, and Humble Pie’s Steve Marriott. The band supported Deep Purple on tour during several occasions which led to Purple’s bassist Roger Glover producing their third studio album entitled Razamanaz (1973). Subsequent Glover produced albums included … Loud ‘N’ Proud (1973) and Rampant (1974).

In 1975, while looking for a new direction, Nazareth appointed lead guitarist Many Charlton as their new producer. The band’s new order resulted in their biggest selling album to date entitled …Hair of the Dog. The album spawned the self-titled hard rock classic “Hair of the Dog” and their popular Top 40 hit “Love Hurts” (1975 #8 U.S. Billboard Hot 100) a cover track penned by Boudleaux Bryant and first recorded by The Everly Brothers (1960) and Roy Orbison (1961).

Nazareth has maintained modest popularity in the U.S. while enjoying significant acceptance in Europe. Across the globe, Nazareth remains a consistent concert-pleaser.

Former band members that have contributed to the success of Nazareth were … original drummer Darrell Sweet (1968- 1999, Sweet died in 1999), original lead guitarist Manny Charlton (1968-1990), Zal Cleminson on guitars (1978-1980), Billy Rankin on guitars (1980-83,1990-94), John Locke on keyboards (1980-82, Locke died in 2006), and Ronnie Leahy on keyboards (1994-2002).

I had the great pleasure of chatting with legendary Nazareth frontman Dan McCafferty recently about the band’s brilliant new CD entitled… ‘Rock ‘N’ Roll Telephone’ … The inception of Nazareth

 October 14, 1946 – November 8, 2022

Support us on PayPal!

DAVE EDMUNDS ROCKABILLY LEGEND

'THE LOST INTERVIEWS'

EPISODE 8

Guitar hero DAVE EDMUNDS has never followed music trends, and throughout what Edmunds jokingly remarks as a “semi-retired” music career, has probably been more devout and grateful to the original rock and roll format than any other musician.

Edmunds recently released his new album entitled ‘Rags & Classics’ via the MVD Entertainment Group. It’s an all-instrumental masterpiece that displays Edmunds’ proficient guitar work along with his brilliant multi-instrumental and production skills. Recorded in his home studio, most of the cover tracks on the new album have never been performed as an instrumental and are extremely difficult to implement as a one-man band.

 I really enjoyed ‘Rags & Classics,’ Edmunds did a remarkable job handpicking singles that are classics but rarely relished. Some of the more notable tracks are the Brian Wilson &Tony Asher “God Only Knows,” and the Elton John &Bernie Taupin ballad “Your Song,” Both tracks are remarkable instrumental renditions while acquainting the listener to a fresh prospective to an ageless classic. ‘Rags & Classics’ delivers an eclectic mix of captivating musical gratification … you’ll be delightfully swayed by Edmunds’ intricate instrumental renderings of Mason Williams’ “Classical Gas,” Procol Harum’s “A Whiter Shade of Pale,” tracks from Dave’s guitar heroes … Chet Atkins “Black Mountain Rag,” and Merle Travis “Cannonball Rag,” and a surprisingly but phenomenal finale to an exceptional album, Mozart’s Symphony No.40 in G Minor, Molto Allegro. Everyone will truly enjoy ‘Rags & Classics’ by guitar legend Dave Edmunds. ... (5) Stars!

DAVE EDMUNDS, Welsh guitarist, singer, songwriter, and producer has collaborated with some of the greatest musicians the world will ever know, including longtime pal George Harrison. Edmunds is a 1950’s rock and roll purist and remains a loyalist to this day.

After his stint with the blues/rock band Love Sculpture, Edmunds scored big with his cover hit “I Hear You Knocking” (1970), a song written by Dave Bartholomew & Earl King and first recorded by Smiley Lewis in 1955. Edmunds’ rendition added authentic rock and roll dynamism and landed at #1 at Christmas on the UK charts and #4 on Billboard’s Hot 100 in the U.S.  It sold over three-million copies, was awarded a gold disc, and became a rock and roll standard worldwide.

In 1976, Edmunds began collaborating with British musician/singer/songwriter/producer Nick Lowe (Brinsley Schwarz) on several albums. Lowe and Edmunds were signed to different record labels and couldn’t record together as ‘Rockpile’ until 1980 when they released Seconds of Pleasure, their only album to feature the ‘Rockpile’ band name. Drummer Terry Williams and guitarist Billy Bremner were also in the group. Critics and music enthusiasts adored Rockpile. Edmunds describes Rockpile’s short and sweet musical career as a party band for four years which they never took seriously. Rockpile was also hailed as a band that laid the groundwork for ‘new wave.’

Between 1976 and 1981, Dave Edmunds released four albums on Led Zeppelin’s Swan Song Records. After Edmunds and Lowe went their separate ways, Edmunds collaborated and produced albums for an assortment of friends and musicians including … Paul McCartney, King Kurt, Stray Cats, Fabulous Thunderbirds, Status Quo, the Everly Brothers, Johnny Cash, and the Flamin’ Groovies. Edmunds also collaborated with singer, songwriter, composer, arranger, multi-instrumentalist and record producer Jeff Lynne of the Electric Light Orchestra. Edmunds released a song written by Lynne entitled “Slipping Away” which became a Top 40 hit in 1983.

In 1985, Edmunds arranged and became the musical director of Blue Suede Shoes: A Rockabilly Session, a televised concert held in London, England, featuring … Edmunds, Carl Perkins George Harrison, Ringo Starr and Eric Clapton. It was the first public performance by George Harrison in more than ten years.

Dave Edmunds was selected to play in Ringo Starr’s All-Starr Band for tours in 1992 and 2000.

Studio albums:

-Love Sculpture: Blues Helping (1968), Forms and Feelings (1970)

-Brewers Droop: The Booze Brothers (recorded 1973, released 1989)

-Rockpile: Seconds of Pleasure (1980)

-Dave Edmunds: Rockpile (1972) ,Subtle as a Flying Mallet (1975),Get It (1977),  Tracks on Wax 4 (1978), Repeat When Necessary (1979), Twangin (1981), D.E. 7th (1982), Information (1983), Riff Raff (1984), Closer to the Flame (1990), Plugged In (1994),Hand Picked: Musical Fantasies (1999), Again ( 2013), Rags & Classics ( 2015)

I had the rare pleasure of chatting with David Edmunds recently about his new all- instrumental cover album ‘Rags & Classics,’ the inception of “I Hear You Knocking,” Rockpile, Nick Lowe, Carl Perkins, George Harrison, my infamous ‘Field of Dreams’ question and much-much more!

I’d like to dedicate this ‘Lost Interview’ to my good friend, fellow broadcaster, and music enthusiast Tom Cobb. Enjoy the legendary music in heaven and rest in peace brother!

Support us on PayPal!

ROGER HODGSON THE VOICE OF SUPERTRAMP

'THE LOST INTERVIEWS' 

Episode 7

Roger Hodgson’s inspirational lyrics, enchanting vocals and virtuoso musicianship continue to astound audiences worldwide. Hodgson’s distinctive voice and profound musical arrangements have spawned numerous 'Top 40 Hits' for classic rock music legends Supertramp. Some of Roger’s most distinguished classics include, “Give a Little Bit,” “The Logical Song,” “Take the Long Way Home,” “Breakfast in America,” “Dreamer,” “School,” “It’s Raining Again,” and “Fool’s Overture.”

After performing to jubilant sold-out audiences worldwide, 'Supertramp’s Roger Hodgson' returns to the stage in 2013 on a new global excursion. Roger will be making a rare appearance at Ruth Eckerd Hall in Clearwater, Florida on Friday, March 22nd and for the first time in the U.S.; Hodgson will be performing with a Rock Symphony Orchestra.

After the release of their third studio album, Crime of the Century in 1974, Supertramp quickly captured the attention of music critics and aficionados across the globe. Crime of the Century was a superlative release. The creative writing collaboration of Hodgson and Davies, although contrasting, began a highly successful commercial period for a group comprised of highly esteemed musicians. Roger Hodgson penned; “Dreamer” became Supertramp’s first big hit. The album also featured two beautifully composed arrangements by Hodgson entitled ... “Hide in Your Shell” and “If Everyone Was Listening.”

Supertramp became a sought-out concert attraction because of their awe-inspiring musical abilities and riveting onstage presence. Their shows often spotlighted a movie projection that displayed the Crime of the Century album cover, an image of two hands clutching jail cell bars while floating in space. The projection synchronized hypnotically with the music above the stage.

Subsequent albums … Crisis? What Crisis? (1975) and Even in the Quietest Moments (1977) which produced “Give a Little Bit” (#15 on Billboard’s Pop Singles chart).

In 1979, Supertramp released what would become their highest selling album, Breakfast in America. The album spawned four U.S. Billboard Hit singles… “The Logical Song” (#6 Hit), “Take the Long Way Home” (#10 Hit), “Goodbye Stranger” (#15 Hit) and “Breakfast in America” (#62 Hit). The album remained on top of the charts worldwide and eventually sold over 20-million copies, becoming one of the biggest selling albums of all-time.

Supertramp made an amazingly smooth transition from a progressive rock scheme over album-oriented rock airwaves to mainstream Top 40 radio, and without compromising or sacrificing musical integrity.

The bands next album, ironically entitled …Famous Last Words (1982) would be the last featuring vocalist/lyricist/keyboardist and guitarist Roger Hodgson. The album reached #5 on Billboard’s Pop Album Charts and was certified Gold.

To date ... Supertramp has sold over 60- million albums.

Roger Hodgson officially left Supertramp in 1983 to pursue a solo career.

In 1987, after his second solo album was released, Hodgson fell and shattered both of his wrists. Doctors said he would never play music again, but his strong faith, positive thinking, self-healing efforts, and physical therapy would prove the medical profession wrong. Within a year and a half, Roger was playing his music once again.

Roger Hodgson released three solo albums since leaving Supertramp … In the Eye of the Storm (1984), Hai Hai (1987) and Open the Door (2000). He also released a live album entitled, Rites of Passage (1996).

In 2001, Roger was invited to play with Ringo Starr & His All-Starr Band. The band’s lineup also featured Ian Hunter (Mott the Hoople), Greg Lake (Emerson, Lake, and Palmer), Sheila E., Howard Jones and Mark Rivera.

In 2006, Hodgson released his first ever DVD entitled, Take the Long Way Home –Live in Montreal. The solo release achieved platinum status in just seven weeks.

The following year, Roger accepted an invitation by Princes William and Harry to perform at the ‘Concert for Diana’ in front of an audience of 65,000 people at Wembley Stadium. “Give a Little Bit,” “Dreamer,” “Breakfast in America” and “It’s Raining Again” were among Diana’s favorite songs. The concert was broadcast in 140 countries around the world.

Roger Hodgson’s most recent release, “Classics Live” is an incredible collection of his live performances recorded from his '2010 world tour.'

There are also 60 unreleased songs that Roger plans to record when the time is right.

I had a wonderful opportunity to chat with Roger Hodgson recently before the launch of his worldwide tour. Roger’s music continues to inspire and offer hope for people everywhere. His spirituality and positive vibrations were felt throughout our entire conversation. Roger is a true delight.

Support us on PayPal!

AL KOOPER 'THE LOST INTERVIEWS' EPISODE 6

Singer, songwriter, producer, and multi-instrumentalist AL KOOPER continues to relish an incredible life of music. Although these days it’s mostly through his weekly online column for The Morton Report entitled ‘New Music for Old People’

Kooper reveals… “This column is like the title says - its intention is to fill the gap for those of us who were satiated musically in the '60s and then searched desperately as we aged for music we could relate to and get the same buzz from nowadays. iTunes was the answer for me in 2003 and I have been following the new releases every Tuesday ever since I realized there was an endless stream of music I could enjoy there. The reason I am writing this column is to make sure others don't miss this. These are not top ten items; but they SHOULD be!”

Kooper is also excited about the re-release of the classic ‘Super Session’ album featuring Al Kooper-Mike Bloomfield-Stephen Stills. The album is re-mastered with the latest (Hybrid Multichannel SACD) technology. The package includes new liner notes written by Al Kooper that tell the story of the Super Session album and the new 5.1 Multichannel mix. The 5.1 mix by Al Kooper with mastering by Bob Ludwig was never released and yet it has acquired some fame from industry insiders familiar with the Multichannel mix with comments like "excellent" and "it deserves to be heard. “The new mastering of the Stereo tracks for new SACD Stereo and CD Stereo audio are by mastering engineer Steve Hoffman. -The official release of ‘Super Session’ on amazon.com is -September 9th.

AL KOOPER: had a life changing undertaking technologically and musically after receiving a Webcor reel to reel tape recorder as a Bat Mitzvah gift in 1957.Born in Brooklyn and growing up in Queens, New York … Kooper began his incredible music career as a fourteen-year-old guitarist with The Royal Teens (“Short Shorts” #3 U.S. Hit in 1958).

In 1960, Kooper joined the songwriting team of Bob Brass and Irwin Levine and wrote “This Diamond Ring” (#1 U.S. Hit in 1965) for Gary Lewis & the Playboys. At 21, Kooper moved to Greenwich Village and began a momentous relationship with Bob Dylan. He performed and recorded with Dylan including adding his classic Hammond organ riffs on “Like a Rolling Stone”(#2 U.S. Billboard Hot 100 Hit in 1965). During those recording sessions, Kooper met Michael Bloomfield.

In 1967, Al Kooper joined The Blues Project as their keyboardist. He left the band before the group was to appear at the infamous Monterey Pop Festival, and instead, along with bandmate Steve Katz, formed the jazz/rock/psychedelic/ R&B/ group …Blood, Sweat & Tears.

Kooper left Blood, Sweat & Tears after their critically acclaimed debut release … ‘Child Is Father to the Man’ (1968). The album spawned the classic rock mainstays … “I Love You More Than You’ll Ever Know” (Penned by Kooper) and “I Can’t Quit Her” (Written by Kooper/Levine).

Al Kooper recorded a jazz inspired jam entitled ‘Super Session’ in 1968 with Michael Bloomfield and Stephen Stills. The album spawned an incredible cover of Donovan’s “Season of the Witch” and my favorite track “His Holy Modal Majesty” (Written by Kooper and Bloomfield). The album peaked at #12 on the Billboard 200 and was certified gold.

It was Al Kooper who called Judy Collins in the middle of the night and put Joni Mitchell on the phone to sing “Both Sides Now” which eventually became a huge hit for Collins in 1968.

Throughout the years …Kooper became a mainstay in the recording studio performing with The Rolling Stones, The Who, B.B. King, The Jimi Hendrix Experience, Cream, Alice Cooper, Peter, Paul & Mary, Joe Cocker, Tom Petty, and Roger McGuinn to name just a few.

Kooper discovered Lynyrd Skynyrd in 1972 after watching several of their appearances at a frequented club in Atlanta. Al moved to Atlanta and signed the band to his new record label ‘Sounds of the South.’ (He would eventually sell the label to MCA Records). Al Kooper produced and performed on Lynyrd Skynyrd’s first (3) albums…  (‘Pronounced ‘Lĕh-‘nérd ‘Skin-‘nérd, Second Helping, and Nuthin’Fancy). Also, on the singles “Sweet Home Alabama,” “Free Bird,” and “Saturday Night Special.”

Al Kooper produced The Tubes, David Essex, Nils Lofgren, Rick Nelson, Ray Charles, The Staple Singers, Bob Dylan, and Lynyrd Skynyrd … to name just a few. He also played and arranged three tracks on George Harrison’s ‘Somewhere in England’ album and performed with the remaining Beatles … George Harrison, Paul McCartney, and Ringo Starr, on Harrison’s Hit single “All Those Years Ago” (U.S. #2 Billboard Hot 100 Hit in 1981). Kooper has also written and composed on countless albums and scores for television and motion pictures.

And let’s not forget an incredible SOLO CAREER … I Stand Alone (1969), You Never Know Who Your Friends Are (1969), Easy Does It (1970), New York City (You’re A Women)(1971), Possible Projection of the Future/ Childhood’s End (1972), Naked Songs (1973), Act Like Nothing’s Wrong (1977), Championship Wrestling (1982), Rekooperation (1994), Soul of a Man (Live album 1995), Black Coffee (2005), and White Chocolate (2008).

Al Kooper published his well- received memoir entitled … Backstage Passes and Backstabbing Bastards: Memoirs of a Rock ‘N’ Roll Survivor. The first edition was released in 1977 with subsequent editions released in 1998 and 2008. (The 2008 edition being the best of the three).

I had the rare opportunity of chatting with Al Kooper about the remastered classic ‘Super Session’ album on 5.1 Multichannel mix … Al’s column ‘New Music for Old People’ … The Music industry today … Discovering Lynyrd Skynyrd … My infamous ‘Field of Dreams’ question… And much-much more!

Support us on PayPal!