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 still facing a serious situation but a new year gives us hope for the new days, seasons, opportunities & moments ahead. Still, music is something that will never change for me. It is my refuge, the most comforting part of my life & the one thing I consistently count on. So until a more normal semblance of life 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.

Sam Cooke released the single “Chain Gang” on July 26, 1960.  It reached the #2 spot in the country later that year, the second time he was in the Top Five following the success of his #1 hit from 1957, “You Send Me” (Day 261).  Three years later he was in the Top Ten with today’s song. 

Cooke had so many things going for him:  his silky smooth voice, his suave debonair good looks and his ease & confidence in front of an audience to name a few.  But another important talent that set Cooke apart from other performers of his day was his songwriting ability.  He was succinct, eloquent & expressive with both his words & music.  Today’s track is no exception.  It also contains a bit of levity which only adds to its charm.    

“Another fella told me he had a sister who looked just fine 
Instead of being my deliverance 
She had a strange resemblance 
To a cat named Frankenstein”.

Sam Cooke circa 1960.  (Image found online.  Original source unknown.)

Sam Cooke: “Another Saturday Night” (1963, written by Sam Cooke).

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

Stay well.