Monthly Archives: March 2020

Let’s Take A Moment Day 15

Posted in Music by

Hi everyone.  Hope you are all well and continue to stay that way during this global health crisis we are facing.  But in addition to protecting your physical wellness, what are you doing to stay mentally healthy today?

music heart

(Image found online.  Original source unknown.)

I know we are in a serious situation, but I need a break from the gloom, doom and bullying by way of hoarding. Music has always been my refuge and watching those beautiful Italians singing to each other from their balconies reaffirmed my belief that music is the answer. So until the old normal returns, I am going to share a song I listen to that helps me escape the current state of things, if only for a few minutes each day. And if this helps anyone else, even better.

Today’s song has been covered by a variety of artists such as Johnny Cash, Bonnie Raitt, Paul Young & Rod Stewart.  But my absolute favorite one is by the woman who defined the cool rock chick persona in the 1970’s with her unmistakable powerful gorgeous passionate voice.  But her talent and love of singing was too big to be confined to one genre.  In her 45 year career she has sold over 100 million records which included country, mexican, big band, broadway and pop songs.  She has also collaborated with many artists, most notably with Dolly Parton and Emmylou Harris on the country “Trio” albums and Aaron Neville on hits like “Don’t Know Much”, “All My Life” and “When Something Is Wrong With My Baby”.  Her contribution to music is immeasurable and despite her retirement from performing in 2011 she remains one of the greatest female singers of all time.

Linda

(Image found online.  Original source unknown.)

Linda Ronstadt:  “Love Has No Pride” (1973, written by Eric Kaz & Libby Titus).

I do not own the rights to anything.  I am just sharing what I love and how I am coping with you.

Stay well.

Let’s Take A Moment Day 14

Posted in Music by

Hi everyone.  Hope you are all well and continue to stay that way during this global health crisis we are facing.  But in addition to protecting your physical wellness, what are you doing to stay mentally healthy today?

music heart

(Image found online.  Original source unknown.)

I know we are in a serious situation, but I need a break from the gloom, doom and bullying by way of hoarding. Music has always been my refuge and watching those beautiful Italians singing to each other from their balconies reaffirmed my belief that music is the answer. So until the old normal returns, I am going to share a song I listen to that helps me escape the current state of things, if only for a few minutes each day. And if this helps anyone else, even better.

Today’s song was my first introduction to the lead singer, Paul Carrack, and it was spectacular.  Despite the fact that the group he wrote it for and recorded it with was a one hit wonder, he went on to to sing with and find more success with other groups like  Squeeze (he sang lead vocal on “Tempted“) and Mike & the Mechanics (he did the lead vocals on “The Living Years” & “Silent Running“).  He also co-wrote several songs including the Eagles hit, “Love Will Keep Us Alive”, among others.  As great as his songwriting skills are, it is his voice that he is well known for, even though he is one of the most underrated singers out there.

ACE_HOW+LONG-656900

(Image found online.  Original source unknown.)

Ace:  “How Long” (1974, written by Paul Carrack).

I do not own the rights to anything.  I am just sharing what I love and how I am coping with you.

Stay well.

Let’s Take A Moment Day 13

Posted in Music by

Hi everyone.  Hope you are all well and continue to stay that way during this global health crisis we are facing.  But in addition to protecting your physical wellness, what are you doing to stay mentally healthy today?

music heart

(Image found online.  Original source unknown.)

I know we are in a serious situation, but I need a break from the gloom, doom and bullying by way of hoarding. Music has always been my refuge and watching those beautiful Italians singing to each other from their balconies reaffirmed my belief that music is the answer. So until the old normal returns, I am going to share a song I listen to that helps me escape the current state of things, if only for a few minutes each day. And if this helps anyone else, even better.

My elementary school gym teacher was very progressive for her time.  She realized that dance and choreographed routines were excellent forms of exercise.  Every spring she had us perform to two different songs.  Today’s pick was one of them and from the first time I heard it I adored it.  This song had come in and out of my life for years until I heard it at the end of a “Mad Men” episode in 2013 when I finally added it to my Spotify & YT favorites list so I would not lose track of it again.

Although the version we used in gym class was the instrumental one, the song was recorded with its full lyrics in 1968 by Italian crooner Al Martino (also known as  Johnny Fontane in “The Godfather” movies).  I was also very surprised to learn rock guitarist Jeff Beck did his own version of this song using only  the lyrics from the chorus interspersed between his guitar solos.  But to me, the best version is by this French conductor.

Paul_Mauriat_Love_Is_Blue

(Image found online.  Original source unknown.)

Paul Mauriat:  “Love Is Blue” (1968, music written by Andre Popp with french lyrics by Pierre Cour and English lyrics by Bryan Blackburn).

I do not own the rights to anything.  I am just sharing what I love and how I am coping with you.

Stay well.

 

Let’s Take A Moment Day 12

Posted in Music by

Hi everyone.  Hope you are all well and continue to stay that way during this global health crisis we are facing.  But in addition to protecting your physical wellness, what are you doing to stay mentally healthy today?

music heart

(Image found online.  Original source unknown.)

I know we are in a serious situation, but I need a break from the gloom, doom and bullying by way of hoarding. Music has always been my refuge and watching those beautiful Italians singing to each other from their balconies reaffirmed my belief that music is the answer. So until the old normal returns, I am going to share a song I listen to that helps me escape the current state of things, if only for a few minutes each day. And if this helps anyone else, even better.

Today’s song comes from the musical genius nicknamed “The Killer” thanks to his wildly energetic stage performances.  He is regarded as one of the architects of rock & roll and helped make Sun Records the mega success it became.  He was also part of the label’s Million Dollar Quartet along with Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash & Carl Perkins.  His extraordinary talent and piano playing style brought him almost immediate success, but it was with this song that he became a worldwide sensation.

Jerry Lee Lewis

Jerry Lee Lewis circa 1955 (Image found online.  Original source unknown.)

Jerry Lee Lewis:  “Whole Lotta Shakin’ Goin’ On” (1957, written by James Faye “Roy” Hall and Dave “Curlee” Williams).

I do not own the rights to anything.  I am just sharing what I love and how I am coping with you.

Stay well.

Let’s Take A Moment Day 11

Posted in Music by

Hi everyone.  Hope you are all well and continue to stay that way during this global health crisis we are facing.  But in addition to protecting your physical wellness, what are you doing to stay mentally healthy today?

music heart

(Image found online.  Original source unknown.)

I know we are in a serious situation, but I need a break from the gloom, doom and bullying by way of hoarding. Music has always been my refuge and watching those beautiful Italians singing to each other from their balconies reaffirmed my belief that music is the answer. So until the old normal returns, I am going to share a song I listen to that helps me escape the current state of things, if only for a few minutes each day. And if this helps anyone else, even better.

I was having trouble trying to decide which song I would share from this legend since anything she ever sang was perfection.  But yesterday the answer was clear that I had to share her version of a famous beautiful Italian aria.

I decided that after witnessing the people of Italy giving us yet another glimpse into their indomitable spirit with a new heartfelt show of solidarity.  This time it was not from their balconies but in the sky from their air force.  A group of planes soared overhead complete with a smoke display in the colors of the country’s flag accompanied by opera legend Luciano Pavarotti’s recording of “Nessun Dorma”.  Let me just say I have always been proud to be an Italian-American but never more than in these past few weeks. A lot of individuals like to make themselves honorary Irish people on St. Patrick’s Day, so how about becoming honorary Italians for a little while and follow their lead in how brave and resilient they are in continuing to handle the pandemic? I know it’s scary and difficult but Iet’s try to stay strong together.  Forza.

Italian flag

The song is from the opera “Turnadot” written by Italian composer Giacomo Puccini.  It became Pavarotti’s signature song (and subsequently Italy’s anthem) after his 1972 recording of it was used by the BBC as the theme for the 1990 World Cup.  He performed it twice on the eve of the games during a concert by the Three Tenors. The first time it was as a solo and the second was as an encore with the other two singers. Pavarotti was supposed to perform it at the 1998 Grammy Awards after he received his Living Legend Award.  Unfortunately he had to cancel that appearance at the last minute due to a severe cold.  That is when this woman stepped in-on a moment’s notice-to sing it instead.  And the rest, as they say, was history.  But what else should we expect from a queen?

This past Wednesday (March 25)  marked what would have been her 78th birthday  Happy birthday, Aretha.  We miss you.  Love, the world.  And to Italy, Ti Amo.

Aretha

Aretha Franklin at the 1998 Grammy Awards (Image found online.  Original source unknown.)

Aretha Franklin: “Nessun Dorma” (performed at the 1998 Grammy Awards, written by Giacomo Puccini circa 1924).

I do not own the rights to anything.  I am just sharing what I love and how I am coping with you.

Stay well.

Let’s Take A Moment Day 10

Posted in Music by

Hi everyone.  Hope you are all well and continue to stay that way during this global health crisis we are facing.  But in addition to protecting your physical wellness, what are you doing to stay mentally healthy today?

music heart

(Image found online.  Original source unknown.)

I know we are in a serious situation, but I need a break from the gloom, doom and bullying by way of hoarding. Music has always been my refuge and watching those beautiful Italians singing to each other from their balconies reaffirmed my belief that music is the answer. So until the old normal returns, I am going to share a song I listen to that helps me escape the current state of things, if only for a few minutes each day. And if this helps anyone else, even better.

Today’s song is in honor of the fishing & boating seasons which began in CT yesterday.  Launches are now open, fishing can take place wherever you can drop a line and both activities can be done within the social distancing guidelines.  The therapeutic nature of the water and its power to heal is well known and many people have taken to it when all feels lost.  Stephen Stills wrote today’s song after a sailing trip he took when he was trying to come to terms with the end of a marriage.  He said it was about  “using the power of the universe to heal your wounds”.  I love that and thought some of you would, too.

Southern Cross

(Image found online.  Original source unknown.)

Crosby, Stills & Nash:  “Southern Cross” (1982, written by Stephen Stills, Rick Curtis and Michael Curtis).

I do not own the rights to anything.  I am just sharing what I love and how I am coping with you.

Stay well.

 

Let’s Take A Moment Day 9

Posted in Music by

Hi everyone.  Hope you are all well and continue to stay that way during this global health crisis we are facing.  But in addition to protecting your physical wellness, what are you doing to stay mentally healthy today?

music heart

(Image found online.  Original source unknown.)

I know we are in a serious situation, but I need a break from the gloom, doom and bullying by way of hoarding. Music has always been my refuge and watching those beautiful Italians singing to each other from their balconies reaffirmed my belief that music is the answer. So until the old normal returns, I am going to share a song I listen to that helps me escape the current state of things, if only for a few minutes each day. And if this helps anyone else, even better.

I keep reading how bored everyone is getting being at home with nothing to do and nowhere to go. Maybe if you change your view and add a little exercise you might feel better.  Dancing to a great song is a fabulous way to get your blood pumping again. And by great song I mean something from Motown. So go outside, breathe in the fresh air, keep yourself socially distant from your partner and have fun. And if you are by yourself even better-no inhibitions!!!

This song has been covered by bands as diverse as The Grateful Dead and Van Halen and as a duet by rock gods David Bowie and Mick Jagger, but I must admit the original is still my favorite.

dancing in the street

(Image found online.  Original source unknown.)

Martha & the Vandellas:  “Dancing In The Street” (1964, written by Marvin Gaye, William “Mickey” Stevenson & Ivy Jo Hunter).

I do not own the rights to anything.  I am just sharing what I love and how I am coping with you.

Stay well.

Let’s Take A Moment Day 8

Posted in Music by

Hi everyone.  Hope you are all well and continue to stay that way during this global health crisis we are facing.  But in addition to protecting your physical wellness, what are you doing to stay mentally healthy today?

music heart

(Image found online.  Original source unknown.)

I know we are in a serious situation, but I need a break from the gloom, doom and bullying by way of hoarding. Music has always been my refuge and watching those beautiful Italians singing to each other from their balconies reaffirmed my belief that music is the answer. So until the old normal returns, I am going to share a song I listen to that helps me escape the current state of things, if only for a few minutes each day. And if this helps anyone else, even better.

I love every song this man recorded, and I understood by listening to them what a great singer he was.  But it was not until I saw one of his concerts on TV did I fully understand how he got his title.  His stage presence & energy were phenomenal, his interactions with the band and his audience were spectacular and his performance was just electrifying.  His voice was powerful, commanding, deep, expressive and passionate.  He was magic in every sense of the word.  All hail the King.

elvis presley
 Elvis Presley circa 1970 (Image found online.  Original source unknown.)

Elvis Presley:  “Suspicious Minds” (live from Las Vegas in 1970.  Originally recorded in 1969, written by Mark James).

I do not own the rights to anything.  I am just sharing what I love and how I am coping with you.

Stay well.

Let’s Take A Moment Day 7

Posted in Music by

Hi everyone.  Hope you are all well and continue to stay that way during this global health crisis we are facing.  But in addition to protecting your physical wellness, what are you doing to stay mentally healthy today?

music heart

(Image found online.  Original source unknown.)

I know we are in a serious situation, but I need a break from the gloom, doom and bullying by way of hoarding. Music has always been my refuge and watching those beautiful Italians singing to each other from their balconies reaffirmed my belief that music is the answer. So until the old normal returns, I am going to share a song I listen to that helps me escape the current state of things, if only for a few minutes each day. And if this helps anyone else, even better.

Beware the Ides of Monday.

“Monday, Monday, can’t trust that day
Monday, Monday, sometimes it just turns out that way”

What does your Monday look like? Are you at your job, working from home or forced into #stayhomestaysafe mode? Wherever this Monday finds you, I hope it’s a good one.

Album

The Mama’s& The Papa’s in 1966 (Image found online.  Original source unknown.)

The Mama’s & The Papa’s:  “Monday, Monday” (1966, written by John Phillips).

I do not own the rights to anything.  I am just sharing what I love and how I am coping with you.

Stay well.

Let’s Take A Moment Day 6

Posted in Music by

Hi everyone.  Hope you are all well and continue to stay that way during this global health crisis we are facing.  But in addition to protecting your physical wellness, what are you doing to stay mentally healthy today?

music heart

(Image found online.  Original source unknown.)

I know we are in a serious situation, but I need a break from the gloom, doom and bullying by way of hoarding. Music has always been my refuge and watching those beautiful Italians singing to each other from their balconies reaffirmed my belief that music is the answer. So until the old normal returns, I am going to share a song I listen to that helps me escape the current state of things, if only for a few minutes each day. And if this helps anyone else, even better.

This is one of my favorite pieces of music ever. The composer wrote this when he was 22 years old. Ten years earlier, he attended a music conservatory where he was basically told he had no talent. It tripped him up for a while but eventually he made his way back to music and the result was this exquisite piece of music. I think it is a lot like life: achingly beautiful, poignant, reflective, slow in tempo but over impossibly fast. I also think it is a perfect song to end the week we have all had and get ready for the one ahead.

Erik Satie

Erik Satie in 1920  (Image found online.  Original source unknown.)

Day 6: Erik Satie: “Gymnopédie No.1” (1888, composed by Erik Satie).

I do not own the rights to anything.  I am just sharing what I love and how I am coping with you.

Stay well.