In defense of “Wonderful Christmastime”
It’s that time of year. The Christmas tunes are out in full force. For the most part, I’m not a Christmas music stan. I don’t hate it, but a little goes a long way, you know? But I have a confession… I actually love Paul McCartney’s “Wonderful Christmastime.”...
Goodbye to Schoolhouse Rock! creator George Newall
Ars has a nice post about one of the creators of Schoolhouse Rock!, George Newall, who passed away at 88. Most Gen X’ers I know can recite at least a few of the Schoolhouse Rock! shorts, and have fond memories of the cartoons meant to teach kids math, grammar,...
“A Night at the Opera” by Queen (No. 5)
A Night at the Opera has some of Queen‘s best-known songs, including “Bohemian Rhapsody.” But what if I told you that “Bohemian Rhapsody” isn’t even the best song on A Night at the Opera, or at least not the most epic? A Night at the Opera has Queen trying...
“Who’s Next” by The Who (No. 13)
On Tommy The Who sought to stretch beyond the confines of single songs to a cohesive, two-album work. With Who’s Next, The Who deliver nine incredible specimens of classic rock and roll. From the first notes of the primitive A.R.P. synthesizer on “Baba O’Riley” to the final flourish of...
“Excitable Boy” by Warren Zevon (No. 40)
If it weren’t for Warren Zevon, I’d have almost nothing to sing at the Karaoke bar. Whether this is laudable or something he should be ashamed of is left as an exercise to the reader. But give me a drink or three, and a mic, and I’ll be happy...
“Standing on a Beach / Staring at the Sea” by The Cure (No. 76)
Today’s pick is a look at the early work of The Cure. Standing on a Beach and Staring at the Sea are co-sharing the pick for #76, because the titles are almost the same album. Let me explain…...