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?

(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 marks another rock & roll birthday, this one belonging to one of the most unique and powerful voices ever heard. As the lead singer of Blood, Sweat & Tears for four years, David Clayton-Thomas helped define the band’s sound, which in turn led to their massive success in the early 1970’s. Born 79 years ago in England but raised in Canada, he became the lead singer for the band in 1968. Their first album together contained the hits “God Bless The Child”, “And When I Die”, Spinning Wheel” (which he wrote) and today’s song. I absolutely adore the horns on this track, especially the trumpet arrangement. It is just spectacular. Clayton-Thomas left the band in 1972 to pursue a solo career and continued to make music that was heavily influenced by blues, jazz and R&B. But it was his time with BS&T that turned him into one of the most celebrated voices of the 20th century.

“You touched my very soul
You always showed me that
Loving you was where it’s at
You made me so very happy“.

David Clayton-Thomas circa 1975. (Image found online.  Original source unknown.)

Blood, Sweat & Tears: “You’ve Made Me So Very Happy” ( 1968, written by Berry Gordy, Jr., Brenda Holloway, Patrice Holloway and Frank Wilson).

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

Stay well.