Give me your music, your art, your huddled masses of words and rhythms yearning to breathe free.
I generally consider someone a true artist if he or she has the courage to produce straight-from-the-soul work that is so provocative it’s likely to offend the masses, incite controversy, and, ideally, inspire people to open their minds and question long-held beliefs. When you think of such artists, Puerto Rican singer/songwriter José Feliciano doesn’t immediately … Read more
“It was the third of June, another sleepy, dusty Delta day…” I sing in the car. This is about as far as I get before my friends groan, “Okay, THAT’S enough.” They know what’s coming next: the entire five verses of Bobbie Gentry’s Southern gothic hit, “Ode to Billie Joe.” Yep, I’ve known the lyrics … Read more
When you’re looking for a last-chance miracle to draw a crush object close to your heart, who do you call upon but Cupid, the god of desire, erotic love, and affection. In 1961, silky-smoky-voiced Sam Cooke penned “Cupid,” his soulful plea to the boy with the bow and arrow, asking him to work his magic. … Read more
Snarly, salty Tom Waits is one of the few singer/songwriters never to sell out by allowing his songs to be used in TV commercials. Waits has filed lawsuits against the following companies for attempting to use his songs – or rips-offs of his music – in TV ads: Frito-Lay, Levis, Audi, and Scandinavian company Adam … Read more
Lest we forget the great Gordon Lightfoot, the Canadian singer/songwriter who turns 74 today. Here’s a reminder of his influence. “Lightfoot became a mentor for a long time. I think he probably still is to this day.” – Bob Dylan “I can’t think of any Gordon Lightfoot song I don’t like. Every time I hear … Read more