Super Al Kooper: 50 Years of Sensational Sessions

Imagine the Rolling Stones' classic "You Can't Always Get What You Want," sans the embellishments of the London Bach Choir.  Definitely doable, in my opinion.  Ponder the Beatles' "The Long and Winding Road," minus the Phil Spector-imposed orchestral strings and choir of angels. Totally preferable. Contemplate Bob Dylan's landmark "Like a Rolling Stone" without  those haunting, no-direction-home Hammond organ chords. Absolutely inconceivable. Had it not been for the gutsy gamble of a 21-year old named Al Kooper, Dylan's decade-defining anthem would lack much of its signature, soulful sound. The great Mr. Kooper turned 70 on February 5, 2014.

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Consider Yourself an Artful Dodger, Mate

Three diminutive stars of the rock world began their musical careers as Artful Dodgers on the London stage. They include Phil Collins and Steve Marriott, both 5'5", and Davy Jones, 5'3". Interestingly, Davy and Phil share a birthday on December 30. Here's a look back at their careers as child stars.

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Micky’s Monkee

With the sad passing of the ever-youthful Davy Jones last week, I beg the question: who was your favorite Monkee? For me it was pixie-faced Micky Dolenz, who turns 67 today. Why Micky? Well, like Ringo, the "real" drummer on which his TV character was modeled, he just charmed the heck out of me with his goofiness.

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