A Harmonic Convergence Of Jeff Lynne’s ELO Fans

The venue was, like, 2018, the Wells Fargo Canter, and Lynne and Company played two nights in South Philly, Friday and Saturday night, September 20 and 21. I went down for night one, Friday, by myself like before, and got there nice and early, hoping to grab some food and catch the opening act, Rooney. I parked my car in C Lot and was getting ready to get out of the car when, in an amazing moment of serendipity, three pals of mine pulled up to park right in the spot next to me! What were the odds?! So rather than catch Rooney, I had an impromptu tailgate with fellow Jeff Lynne’s ELO fans John, RT and Ron!

After stopping inside for a few more drinks and some Chickie’s and Pete’s pizza and crab fries, we all went our ways and went to our seats. Again like in 2018, I had a seat exactly where I wanted to be: on the floor in the section in front of the soundboard. The nostalgia was felt right away when I heard “Handle With Care” come over the pre-show speakers. Then it wasn’t long until..showtime!

Jeff Lynne’s ELO Takes The Stage And I Go Nuts

The lights went down, the band entered ther stage, the crowd (and I) went nuts, and they launched into “One More Time” from Jeff Lynne’s 2019 album, From Out Of Nowhere. I was so glad he started off with that rocker, as it was the lone song on the album to feature his late bandmate Richard Tandy on piano. Taking his place onstage was Marcus Byrne on the keys, and he (and well as the rest of the band) did not disappoint.

For the next nearly two hours, culled almost exclusively from the classic ELO days, the band kept the mood joyous and upbeat with hit after hit, and the crowd swung and swayed all evening to these beloved songs. Knowing I’d likely be overcome with emotion seeing Jeff Lynne perform these beautiful melodies and arrangements before my eyes, I’m glad I brought a 10-pack of Kleenex! I sure needed it as I heard my all-time favorite ELO song, “10538 Overture,” into “Strange Magic.” Since I rarely view setlists before a show, I was not prepared for “Last Train To London,” the fine Discovery track. Hearing a snippet of “Fire On High” was also a true delight.

Truth be told, Jeff’s vocals were very good, but not quite what they were in 2018. Several times during songs, he left he singing to his wonderfully talented vocalists, Mike Stephens, Lee Pomeroy, Melanie Lewis-McDonald and Iain Hornal, but it didn’t matter. The love, the feel, the vibe and the magic was all there, song after song.

As I headed to my car as “Mr Blue Sky” played in the encore, I thought about what a beautiful, bittersweet night it had been, how I was able to bid farewell to the live portion of this man’s fabulous career as Jeff Lynne’s ELO, and how truly honored I was to be there.

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I “day tripped” it to the City, taking Amtrak to Penn Station, then hopped on the 2 train to Grand Army Plaza. There’s actually a Brooklyn Museum stop on the 2, but I wanted to walk around the neighborhood a bit. Getting off a stop early also gave me the chance to walk by the gorgeous Brooklyn Botanic Garden on my way.

If you’ve never been to the Brooklyn Museum, it’s a gorgeous facility. I met my long time friend, Brooklyn resident and fellow Beatles fan Ashok, out front. As soon as you walk toward the entrance, one of the first things you see is Deborah Kass‘ iconic “YO/OY” sculpture, the same one that adorns the entrance of the Weitzman National Museum Of American Jewish History on Independence Mall. Of course, I had to pose on the “YO” side, being from Philly but, in Brooklyn, the “OY” side likely gets more traffic.

There were several exhibits going on at the museum but, from the looks of us, the person who greeted us inside knew where we were headed. “Here for the Paul McCartney Exhibit?” “Ohhh yes!” Up we went to the 5th floor of the museum.

We walked in and were instantly transported on a beautiful trip back in time. While Ringo was long thought to be the band’s unofficial backstage photographer of events around the Beatles arrival in America in 1964, all four Beatles were given nice Pentax 35mm cameras sometime in 1963, and we see that Paul took an astonishing amount of photos. The exhibit goes back to January, 1964, when The Beatles played a dozen and a half shows at Paris’ Olympia Theater. During that time, Paul snapped away backstage, in their hotel rooms, and on the streets of Paris. The series below is one of my favorites of the exhibit. Harrison/Lennon in Paris:

I have to say my favorite photos of the Paris trip were the shots Paul took inside EMI’s Pathe Marconi Studios. It was there The Beatles recorded the German versions of “She Loves You” and “I Want To Hold Your Hand,” as well as “Cant Buy Me Love.” While there didn’t appear to be shots of The Beatles recording inside the studio, it was still really cool to see it from the inside.

Next, of course, were the photos from The Beatles’ first trip to America. I loved seeing this historic trip through the lens of Paul McCartney. You could feel the excitement browsing these photos, everything from the thousands of fans gathered on the streets of New York, to all the action going on inside their rooms at the Plaza Hotel. You see Brian Epstein, Cynthia Lennon, Ronnie Spector and Murray The K in many of the photos, hanging out and soaking in all of this excitement.

Paul also seemed to really enjoy photographing ordinary people he saw in his travels. One shot of a train man standing next to a big train engine, presumably taken on the band’s trip from New York to Washington, D.C., is a wonderful moment in time. Once in Miami, Paul got some color film for his Pentax, and the shots are stunning. There’s one of George Harrison, poolside in dark glasses, being handed a drink. You only see the bottom half of a bikini-clad woman serving it to him, but the look on his face was that of a young man fully enjoying the riches of success.

The exhibit wraps up with shots taken during The Beatles’ first U.S. Tour. There are cool shots in the airplane between gigs, and photos of the opening acts, Jackie De Shannon, The Exciters and Clarence “Frogman” Henry. I was happy to see Paul included a photo of Frogman in his exhibit!

There were also two video presentations going on, one involved the Ed Sullivan performance, with the boys performing a snippet of “I Want To Hold Your Hand” from the broadcast. The other was a collage of color photos from the Miami trip, and Paul’s lovely instrumental b-side, “222,” served as the soundtrack.

I cannot tell you how glad I was that I made the trip to see this exhibition. There was a smile on my face throughout, and it totally transported me back to a wonderful time. I can’t recommend Paul McCartney Photographs 1963-64: Eyes Of The Storm enough and, while its time in Brooklyn is over, four more cities will get to host this wonderful experience, Tokyo, Portland, Osaka and San Francisco. Get the dates here.

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10cc – The Classic Lineup

10cc were already polished studio musicians and songwriters when they formed in 1972. Guitarist Eric Stewart first found fame in the 60s in The Mindbenders. Remember this lovely song? That’s Eric on lead vocal. Graham Gouldman, on the other hand, had big hits as a hired-gun songwriter, penning some of the 60s’ most memorable songs like “Bus Stop” for the Hollies, “Heart Full Of Soul” and “For Your Love” for the Yardbirds, and “No Milk Today” for Herman’s Hermits. As 10cc, Gouldman and Stewart, along with Lol Creme and Kevin Godley, made some of the most inventive, clever and wonderful music you’ll ever hear. Rather than work amidst the hustle and bustle of London, they preferred to make their music in their own workshop, 200 miles to the north in Stockport, Strawberry Studios. Their first four albums were flawless, stunning pieces of work, though the band’s second album, Sheet Music, ranks as my favorite non-Beatles album ever made.

Post-Godley and Creme 10cc

In 1976, Godley and Creme left 10cc to make their own music, and later direct music videos, as a duo. Stewart and Gouldman carried on, adding longtime 10cc touring drummer Paul Burgess and guitarist Ric Fenn to the lineup. The first album with this new lineup was Deceptive Bends, am excellent work, followed the next year by Bloody Tourists. On and off since then, they’ve reformed, broken up and reformed again, even made an album with the original lineup.

10cc Today

Now, this new lineup of 10cc with Graham Gouldman are hitting the road for their first U.S. tour in decades. The tour will take them to the Keswick Theater for one night only, Friday night July 26, and you can bet I will be there singing along to every single song!

My Chat With 10cc’s Graham Gouldman

As a long time huge fan of this band, it was quite an honor to have several conversations with Kevin Godley over the years. Imagine my shock when I was given the chance to speak with another of my second favorite band, Graham Gouldman! He was as kind as I’d hoped, and we had a wonderful conversation about a myriad of topics including his poet Dad, his mighty Rickenbacker bass, how Neil Sedaka played a key role in the formation of 10cc, and how he loves the timelessness of the songs he and the guys in the band wrote. We also chatted about the time Paul McCartney came to the band’s studio to record an album with his brother Mike. What a thrill it was to speak with one of my major rock and roll heroes!!

Thanks so much to Graham Gouldman for taking the time to chat with one of his biggest fans!! Take a listen to my conversaton with one of the great ones, Graham Gouldman of 10cc below:

10cc’s first U.S. tour in decades takes them to the Keswick Theatre on Friday, July 26, 2024. Get your tickets here.

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The Music Of Santana

Then, there’s the music. What a career. Santana’s landmark debut album, which beautifully combined rock, jazz, r&b and latin rhythms, gave him his first hit song, “Evil Ways.” The experimental work he did in 1972 on Caravanserai was our early exposure to what would become jazz fusion. Just one year later, he made an album with Mahavishnu Orchestra’s John McLaughlin interpreting the teachings of Sri Chinmoy, their spiritual adviser, through the music of John Coltrane.

More hits followed through the 70s and 80s, working with Scottish vocalist Alex Ligertwood on songs like “Hold On” “All I Ever Wanted” and “Winning.” Then, at the very end of the 20th century, along came “Smooth.” It hit #1 and stayed there for 12 weeks, and remains the third biggest single in chart history, behind “The Twist” by Chubby Checker and “Blinding Lights” by the Weeknd.

Santana Live: A Revival

Seeing Santana live is always a wonderful experience. The first time I saw him was at our WYSP “Be-In” in 1992 in Fairmount Park. We were mesmerized by the music and transfixed on Carlos and his truly stunning guitar work. You’ll have the chance to see this master in action, as Santana plays at the Freedom Mortgage Pavilion, with Counting Crows opening, Friday night, June 21, fittingly on the summer solstice. Good seats are still available HERE.

Carlos Gives Us A Scoop!

I’ve had the honor of speaking with Carlos Santana several times over the course of my career and, each time, it is an absolute joy. Not only did we have a wonderful conversation again this time, but Carlos broke some news about a new album he has coming out called Sentient. We discuss that, his guitar playing, his wife (and drummer in the Santana band) Cindy Blackman, and some other topics, all told in his inspiring and comforting voice. Hope you enjoy conversation with the “deliciously dangerous,” as he says, Carlos Santana:

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Of course, I was more than a little excited at the prospect of chatting with Ringo once again! He and I have had some wonderful conversations over the years, and this ZOOM call would be a cool new way to interact with one my my musical heroes.

Not Your Every Day Press Conference

I clicked the invite to see what it was all about. As it turned out, this was to be one of the more interesting press conferences I’ve attended. When I clicked the invitation, I saw that I was asked to submit my questions in advance (not an uncommon practice) and, if selected, my question would be read aloud by the moderator of the press conference. Ahh, I get it. We are attending the press conference, but are not exactly actively involved. It makes sense from an orderly standpoint. It’s much easier than a bunch of Ringo fans hitting the “raise your hand” button. It also should prevent lame or previously asked questions (although that did happen a few times here!)

Electronics and I have a long time love/hate relationship, so I signed into the meeting a little extra early, just in case there were any issues. I got in with no problem, thankfully. A moment or two after 1:00 ET, on popped Ringo Starr! I tell you, it never gets old when you’re face to face with a Beatle, even if it is virtually! He looked great and was stationed in his studio at his L.A. home.

Ringo Answers My Question!

There was no way of seeing who else was attending, so I had to listen to each question to find out. Lo and behold, the first question came from The Philadelphia Inquirer, and it was a comment about how good he looked (which he did!) Then, MY QUESTION was asked!! Yes the moderator, Ringo’s publicist Elizabeth Freund, switched up our call letters, but I didn’t care. Ringo gave me a long and wonderful answer that went in a few different directions. His answer was so long, he forgot if he even answered my question! It was classic Ringo and I was beyond thrilled:

Ringo also chatted about his love for country music, the newly-re-released Let It Be film, why he likes releasing EPs (though me mentioned he has a full length country album in the can), and his home studio setup. One thing that really surprised me about this ZOOM press conference was how long it lasted. I don’t know why, but I thought Ringo would get bored after about 15 minutes. He was anything but bored, totally engaged, cracking his usual witty lines, and it really looked like he was enjoying himself.

It was nice to hear questions from some Beatle people I know. Mitch Axelrod, from his excellent podcast Fab 4 Free 4 All, got a question in, as did another well known Beatles radio host and podcaster, Ken Michaels. It was the excellent musician and writer Jeff Slate who asked the question about Ringo’s home studio setup. Questions came in from all over the world, which I could see pleased Ringo.

Big thanks to Elizabeth Freund and Patrice Fehlen at Beautiful Day Media for making this Q&A possible, and thanks to my long time friend Ike Richman for getting me in!

Ringo Starr’s latest EP is called Crooked Boy. Click to get the CD or the 12″ vinyl.

Ringo Starr And His All-Starr Band rock the TD Pavilion at The Mann Center on September 24. Get your tickets here.

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Broken Arrow Ranch

By 1970, Neil had hit it big with the likes of CSN&Y, and he had some cash to spend. While flying out of San Francisco, he gazed out the airplane window and fell in love with the land he saw. It was a section of the Santa Cruz Mountains, south of San Jose, and it wasn’t long before Neil found his sanctuary in those mountains. He bought a 1000 acre property there, and named it after a song by his old band Buffalo Springfield, Broken Arrow Ranch.

Neil Young’s Accident At Broken Arrow

Young was at his ranch, moving a very heavy piece of walnut (one of the heavier woods), when his back gave out. According to Young, he spent the next two years in and out of hospitals, undergoing several operations. As a result of the accident, he could not stand for any long period of time, which meant his electric guitar playing ability was quite limited. That’s why many of the songs he wrote for Harvest are acoustic.

Acoustic Harvest

Recording sessions for Harvest began in January, 1971. At the same time, Young embarked on his Journey From The Past solo acoustic tour. After the tour ended, he was asked to appear on the Johnny Cash Show, which taped in Nashville. On the show, he performed “The Needle And The Damage Done,” on acoustic, and “Journey Through The Past,” on piano. Also appearing on the Cash show were Linda Ronstadt and James Taylor. Young’s producer, Elliot Mazer, was at the taping and invited Ronstadt and Taylor to join Young at Quadrafonic Studios (where Young was making Harvest), which they did. Both Linda Ronstadt and James Taylor sang background vocals on two songs: “Heart Of Gold” and “Old Man,” with Taylor adding some nice banjo to the latter track. All the while, Neil Young worked while wearing a back brace from that accident at Broken Arrow. By August, 1971, Neil’s surgery on his back was successful to the point that he could play electric guitar again.

The Success Of Harvest

The remainder of Harvest was recorded mostly at Neil’s Broken Arrow Ranch, with one live track coming from his acoustic tour, at Royce Hall at UCLA, and two songs recorded in London with a live orchestra. It was released on February 1, 1972 and, initially, didn’t get very good reviews. The fans, however, loved the record and it quickly climbed the charts. It hit the top spot in March, 1972, and became Neil Young’s only #1 album. In addition, “Heart Of Gold” also peaked at #1, and was Young’s only chart-topping single.

Success Bored Neil Young

As Neil noted in the liner notes to his Decade compilation, he became bored with mainstream success. He could easily have replicated Harvest over the course of his next few albums, and they likely would have been hits. That is not, and has never been, how Neil Young works. The scope of the success of Harvest was too much for him. He retreated, personally and professionally, and released a series of live and studio albums that were as unlike Harvest as could be possible.

Harvest Moon: The Sequel

Over time, Young became more comfortable with the scope of that album’s success, and even released a beautiful sequel, Harvest Moon, in 1992. Young says people had been asking him to release a followup to Harvest for a long time, but it was only when the songs came to him that it was possible.

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Over the course of my career, I’ve been lucky to work with some amazing pros. I don’t just mean pros on the air, or in the production room, or on the promotions or sales team. Some of the most interesting and funny people I’ve worked with are the men and women from the engineering department. Last month, I was reunited with two guys I’d worked with back in the 70s, 80s and 90s, and I thought you might like to hear my chat with 2 Philly radio engineering legends.

Bill “Radar” Rinier – Radio Engineering Legend

Bill Rinier was one of the first friendly faces I met when I started at WIFI-92 in Philadelphia in December, 1979. He was the Chief Engineer at the station, the ONLY engineer in fact, and he’d come studio many nights and tell me some great stories of his time in the business. “Radar,” as we used to call him, was also one of the original board operators for WFIL during their heyday in the 60s, and worked with Philly radio legends like George Michael, Dr. Don Rose and even Joe Niagra.

My favorite Philly radio legend he worked with at WFIL was my brother, Bill Gardner! There is a legendary story about my brother getting stuck in the ‘FIL elevator while he was on the air, and Bill Rinier and the engineering crew had to rig it so he could somehow call in during his show while they pulled him out! This was in 1968, not an easy thing to do back then!

I found this Polaroid I took of Bill Rinier, taken in the sales department of WIFI-92, back in 1982:

Here’s an aircheck of me on WIFI-92, right around the time that photo was taken. Forget how horrible I sounded, listen how good that station sounds, even on someone’s cassette tape dub. That was the work of Bill Rinier:

After his time at WIFI, Bill continued his successful engineering run at WIP before leaving to run his own business. He was the guy who set up our meeting at MGK!

Richard Bagge (Yes You Can Call Him Dick) – Radio Engineering Legend

Dick Bagge was the first Chief Engineer of WYSP, hired back in 1973. He spent 35+ years as the Chief and, with his longtime assistant engineer F. Lane Massey, kept YSP sounding powerful and loud! He even implemented a Quad signal to WYSP back in 1974, when 4-speaker Quadrophonic sound was a thing.

I admit that some engineers I’ve worked with over the years were not exactly warm and fuzzy, but Dick is such a nice bloke and we’ve had some really fun times together. He even sold me the greatest pair of speakers I’ve ever owned, as you’ll hear in our conversation.

One of the most fun events Dick and I worked on together was the “Marathon For Meals.” We did this charity event from 1990-1993, which later grew a hundred-fold with Preston and Steve’s “Campout For Hunger.” Back then, Dick was responsible for getting a good quality signal from the parking lot of the old Adams Mark Hotel on City Line Avenue, back to the WYSP studios. I was living in an RV in that parking lot, day and night for two straight weeks, collecting food for the organization that would merge with PhilAbundance. Thanks to Dick, the around-the-clock broadcasts went flawlessly. Dick even got a phone line installed at some random pole right at the corner of City Avenue and Monument Road. Genius, I tell you!

Here’s a shot I took of Dick one early morning as he was setting up our Marathon For Meals broadcast. Always a friendly smile:

Dick is happily retired and enjoys all of his various hobbies and projects.

It was Bill Rinier who contacted me about wanting to come and visit our nice, new MGK studios. I hadn’t seen him in, easily, 40 years, and I was psyched to have him stop by. When he told me that has would be bringing Dick Bagge along, I couldn’t believe it! Although Dick and I had kept in touch, I hadn’t actually seen him since 1993.

They came by and, as we started talking, I realized I must roll the recorder and get this conversation recorded. Very hurriedly, I sat them down in the MGK air studio and we..talked. I had such a wonderful time chatting with these guys, and anyone who remembers the giants like WFIL, WIFI and WYSP might get a kick out of my chat with two Philly radio engineering legends.

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The record collector’s dream day is finally upon us. Record Store Day 2024 is Saturday April 20! Oh, the time we’ll spend looking for those collectibles we’ve heard about, and maybe even score some unexpected surprises. I’ve gone over this year’s list and wanted to put in my two cents.

I have been collecting records ever since I can remember, and it sure helped to have an older brother who was a radio DJ! My brother Bill Gardner used to send me boxes of records from the stations where he was working. I shudder to think of the value of some of those early boxes of records I took lousy care of as a little kid. I can remember The Troggs’ WIld Thing album, white label promo-only release on Atco. The masterpiece 1967 release The Supremes Sing Holland-Dozier-Holland with that gorgeous big Motown label, all manhandled by a 6 year old who didn’t quite have record handling down yet.

By age 8 or so, I finally got my act together and started taking care of my darling 45s and LPs. In fact, I became obsessed with collecting. One of the perks of radio back in the 70s was DJs could fairly easily get copies of any new release. Heck, the record companies would ship boxes of 25 of the same LP to one station, perfect for giveaways and DJs!

I would say I hit my peak collecting total around 1987, when I lived in Dallas, Texas. By then I had amassed over 10,000 albums and 1,500 45s. The thing was, with each successive move I did from station to station, it became more burdensome to lug all of those albums around, let alone store them. I may have only listened to a fraction of them anyway. At the suggestion of my then-girlfriend, now wife, I held a fire sale outside of my apartment in Las Colinas. It was really cool – people came from all over and cleaned me out of about half of those albums.

Over the years, I’ve pared down my LP collection considerably, as much of my music has been digitally transferred and is up in my cloud. Still, I’m a sucker for 45s, which I still collect, and have recently taken to collect acetates. They are reference discs that aren’t meant to be played more than a few dozen times, but are quite limited and valuable. SO I’ll be out there on 4/20, wish list in hand, looking for some gems out in the field. At least those still remaining. Those collectors get quite an early start, and those shops sometimes open up while I’m still asleep!

It seems like this year there are more titles than ever. Maybe that’s because vinyl continues to grow in popularity. For the last 17 years, sales of vinyl has increased, while CD sales continue to dwindle. Record companies are seeing some nice profit opportunities with these cool collectibles. Some of them are not so special, but this list has some amazing titles, and even items, available for purchase. I mean, a working Beatles 3″ turntable? That’s ridiculous, and will no doubt sell immediately. There are multi-disc sets, EPs, 45s, colored vinyl and picture discs galore being released.

I hope to see you out and about tomorrow for Record Store Day. It’s always fun to run into fellow record collectors, talk music and compare our finds. It’s a nice community of people. Now that you know my record collecting story, get ready to shop til you drop! Here are some essential Record Store Day grabs for 2024. Happy shopping!

The Beatles – RSD3 Turntable And 3″ Singles

This one blew my mind. Who knows if there’s a burgeoning market for 3″ 45s, this is just plain cool. It’s a working turntable that plays three Beatles singles included with the set. The three songs are ones the band performed on the Ed Sullivan Show, and I suspect it’ll be the studio versions on those singles. Only 2000 of these turntables have been made, with the singles also sold separately.

Def Leppard – One Night Only: Live At The Leadmill 2023

Last year, Def Leppard performed in Sheffield, England for Record Store Day, and this year they’re releasing that concert for THIS year’s RSD! It’ll come on 2 LPs and is limited to 6,000 copies.

The Doors – Live At Konserthuset, Stockholm, September 20, 1968

Taken from a live radio broadcast, and never before released, this entire concert is coming out as a multi LP box set, covering the entire show. It’s also being released on CD. Have  you ever heard The Doors do “Mack The Knife?” They did it this night, sandwiched between “Five To One” and “Love Street.” LP limited to 6,000 copies, the CD, 8,000.

Fleetwood Mac – Rumours Picture Disc

It’s hard to believe, but Rumours has never come out as a picture disc. This year, that is rectified as 7500 copies will be available for purchase. A must for the Mac collector!

George Harrison – Electronic Sound and Wonderwall Music Zoeotrope Picture Disc

Two of George’s first solo albums are coming out via his family’s Dark Horse Records, Electronic Sound and Wonderwall Music. The albums are gorgeous, and are known as a zoeotrope picture disc. This type of discs show a cool animation while it’s playing! They’ll be limited to 3400 copies each and will likely go quickly.

Elton John – Caribou 50th Anniversary Edition

Elton’s followup to Goodbye Yellow Brick Road gets a nice upgrade and reissue, with a two LP set featuring the original Caribou album, plus several bonus tracks, two of which have never been released. A nice piece, indeed, and limited to just 3,000 copies.

John Lennon – Mind Games EP

Two different John Lennon EPs are coming out, in advance of John’s Mind Games reissue slated for this summer. The EPs are available in glow in the dark colored vinyl or standard black. It’s not known how many copies will be out there.

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The Story Has Already Been Told By Them

In 1995, The Beatles Anthology premiered and was the definitive telling of the amazing Beatles story, done by the group themselves. A coffee table book followed, also exclusively told by John, Paul, George and Ringo. Before that, there was the Maysles brothers’ excellent documentary, The Beatles First U.S. Visit, a behind the scenes look at their arrival in America. Even though the VHS cost me $89 when it first came out in 1991, I loved it. Of course for me, the OTHER definitive Beatles story is “Tune In,” the book series by Beatles historian Mark Lewisohn. Only one volume of Lewisohn’s crazily accurate biography has come out, at over 900 pages, and it only overs the time through the end of 1963. Volume two should be out in a few years. That’s probably all I’ll need to satisfy my quest for Beatles historical facts.

Time Will Tell How This Comes Together

I, for one, am skeptical as all get out. I don’t want to look at some actor’s face and imagine that’s Paul. Maybe that’s me. Now the race is on the get the writers and actors for this series of Fab Four films. Four movies in three years does seem a little ambitious, but maybe we’ll be surprised. I can only imagine the jockeying going on with agents trying to get their clients parts in these films! In the meantime, the internet comedians have already started commenting:

https://x.com/RichyCraven/status/1760046904115867799?s=20
https://x.com/Nick_Newman/status/1759953766634115234?s=20
https://x.com/eviledrobinson/status/1760014071548510302?s=20
https://x.com/dave_kim17/status/1760047066963726539?s=20

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Radio informs, educates and entertains, and keeps you company while you work, drive or just hang at home. I distinctly remember waking up on snowy mornings and turning on the radio, hoping to hear my school number announced. In Willingboro, New Jersey, our school code was 672. Fingers crossed. Then Dick Covington would come over KYW with the news, “in Burlington County, 670, 671, 673, 674..” Drat! No sledding for me today.

Here in Philadelphia we had our share of radio talent back in the day. Some of my earliest memories are listening to Hy Lit and Joe Niagra on WIBG, Ken Garland, Dick Clayton and Tom Moran on WIP, or the Phillies games on WCAU called by Bill Campbell, By Saam and Richie Ashburn. It was magical hearing a game on my tiny transistor radio. My love for radio exploded because of my older brother Bill Gardner. He started on the radio in 1965 and had a stellar career behind the mic. I was lucky enough listen to him when he was on WIBG, WFIL and WMMR, and that did it for me. I wanted to be in one place for the rest of my life – in a radio studio playing music.

For decades, one of the greatest thrill for a young musician was to hear their song on the radio. So, on World Radio Day, here are songs about radio. Some are positive, some are not, but they all speak to the power and reach of radio. Not all of them are complimentary of our medium, but each one speaks of the passion the writer had for radio.

1. Radio Radio – Elvis Costello

This one always gets me fired up. Elvis started writing this in the Bruce Springsteen vein before making a bit more edgy. Yeah he slams the BBC for being too commercial, but you can hear he still loves the medium. This was the song he did on Saturday Night Love, after promising them he’d do “Less Than Zero.” He played about :10 of “Less Than Zero” before launching into “Radio Radio” and getting himself banned from the show!

2. Mr. Radio – Electric Light Orchestra

This and “10538 Overture” are the two songs that got me hooked on ELO.  The incredibly Beatles-eque “Mr. Radio” tells the story of a guy who was left all alone with just his radio, after his wife took off. Lynne’s production is so good on this, the vocals sound like they’re coming over the radio. The part about 4 minutes in definitely influenced the end of 10cc’s “Un Nuit A Paris” off of their album, The Original Soundtrack.

3. You Turn Me On, I’m A Radio – Joni Mitchell

It’s not exactly a song ABOUT radio but, rather, radio as a metaphor while she speaks to an unknown person. The lyrics are, as usual with Joni, perfect, and I cracked up at the “Breakfast Barney” reference. Written at her label’s request, this song ended up being a hit for Joni Mitchell…on the radio.

4. Heard It On The X – ZZ Top

There have been several songs written about the powerful radio stations coming out of Mexico.  Here in the U.S., AM radio stations could broadcast at a maximum of 50,000 watts. Otherwise, because of the way an AM signal travels, a station could interfere with others on the same frequency in cities far away. That’s why some AM stations had to reduce power at night – AM signals travel farther at night in the thin atmosphere.  In Mexicao, the rules are different.  Stations would set up right at the border and blast music over 250,000 watts!! Woflman Jack worked at a few of those Mexican stations in the 60s. If the atmosphere was right, you could hear him on XERF 1570AM in Philadelphia!  ZZ Top wrote a killer song paying homage to those Mexican stations, which all start with “X,” unlike “W” or “K” here.

5. Radio Ga Ga – Queen

On the surface, it seems like this is not very complimentary of radio. Actually, according to songwriter Roger Taylor, it’s the opposite. He wrote it in the context of how MTV and music videos were beginning to eclipse radio in terms of how people listened to songs.  As usual, Freddie Mercury delivered a passioned vocal that made this one of Queen’s most beloved songs. So beloved, that Lady Ga Ga took her name for this great song!

6. FM – Steely Dan

I can’t tell you how excited I was when, after just one year in the radio business, one of my favorite bands of all time released a song called FM!  When we first got a copy I did think, “uh oh, the guys are goin to skewer us with their typical biting sarcasm.” No! It was a tribute to how good songs sound on the FM Band.  It was the title track from an excellent movie made about a fictional radio station called “Q-Sky.”  Thank you, Becker and Fagen!

7. The Spirit Of Radio – Rush

Rush’s classic track laments the evolution of FM radio in the 70s from a free form approach to a more structured format.  Still, I couldn’t be mad at the guys for dissing the medium, mostly because it’s SUCH a great song.  I love the phased guitar effect at the beginning, which guitarist Alex Lifeson said was his idea of tuning around a radio. When I saw Rush at the Spectrum in November, 1984, they kicked off the show with this!

8. Around The Dial – The Kinks

No guitar effect on the beginning of this song – it’s an actual radio being tuned at the start of this fantastic Kinks track.  Ray Davies is bummed because his favorite DJ has disappeared from the radio, and he can’t find him. Such a great premise, and I cannot get enough of the album from which this comes, Give The People What They Want.

9. Life Is A Rock (But The Radio Rolled Me) – Reunion

Of course I had to include this gem! An early example of rap, the song paid tribute to all of the great artists he heard on the radio. The group Reunion wasn’t a band, per se, but a group of studio musicians. The lead singer, Joey Levine, sang lead on the bubblegum classic “Yummy Yummy Yummy,” among others.  I can still probably rattle off all the lyrics to this one!

The post On World Radio Day, Here Are 9 Songs About Radio appeared first on 102.9 WMGK.

Yes Was A Very Different Band In 1980

By 1980, both Jon Anderson and Rick Wakeman had left Yes. Taking their place were Trevor Horn and Geoff Downes, formerly known as The Buggles. They had scored a huge worldwide hit the previous year with “Video Killed The Radio Star.” The Buggles and Yes shared the same manager, who had the idea to pair Horn and Downes with Yes’ remaining members. At the time, Yes was Chris Squire, Steve Howe, and Alan White. Chris Squire was impressed with what they had to offer and talked the others into adding the two to the band. Since a huge tour had been booked before Anderson and Wakeman left, this new version of Yes quickly wrote and recorded the album Drama, released In August, 1980. Fans were not impressed, and the album did not sell up to Yes standards. A world tour did well over here, but the Brits did not like the new lineup. On bootlegs from a few European shows, you can hear audience members booing between songs. Ouch!

Horn, Downes and Howe ended up leaving Yes right after the tour, with Downes and Howe forming Asia. This left Squire and White in search of new talent for the band. An executive at Atlantic Records received a demo tape of songs by South African singer Trevor Rabin, and put him in touch with Yes’ manager. A meeting was arranged, they jammed a bit, and Rabin was added as a member. The group also brought back Tony Kaye, who they’d canned in 1971, to serve as another keyboardist. The band didn’t fancy calling themselves Yes, so they decided on the name Cinema.

From Cinema Back To Yes

Recording sessions began, with several songs recorded and mixed. Sadly, Tony Kaye and Trevor Horn “didn’t get on,” and Kaye left several months into the recording sessions. Cinema almost brought Horn back in as a vocalist, but he ended up returning to simply co-produce the album. The band played their manager several songs they’d worked on, but were told the vocals were not strong enough. It was then decided to get back in touch with Jon Anderson to see if he’d be interested in returning. He was, after hearing the songs the band recorded, and he went to work tweaking some lyrics and adding his special touch. Unfortunately for Cinema, several other U.K. bands laid claim to that band name, and threatened legal action. To avoid this potential mess, the group reverted back to calling themselves Yes.

90125 And Success

Thankfully, Atlantic Records president Ahmet Ertegun gave Yes the necessary cash they needed to complete the album. The working title was The New Yes Album but, rather than make such a big deal about this lineup, they decided on a clever title. Every album release gets a catalog number and, in the case of this album, the worldwide catalog number was Atlantic 90125. It was the perfect title for the album! The lead single, “Owner Of A Lonely Heart” set the stage for what this new version of Yes would sound like. To many people’s surprise, the song was a huge hit, and became Yes’ first and only #1 single. The album became the band’s biggest, selling over three million copies. The tour to support the album was also huge, with Tony Kaye being asked to re-join the band for its duration.

I saw that tour at The Spectrum on September 9, 1984 and it was fantastic. For one thing, it was in the round, which gave everyone a great seat. The sound was excellent, too, not an easy task at The Spectrum.

Those radical “changes” gave Yes their biggest album, and 90125 tops our Rock Album chart this week.

10. Live From Earth – Pat Benatar

Pat Benatar’s first live album album also contained two studio tracks, which helped promote the album. “Love Is A Battlefield” was one of new studio tracks added, and the album, Live From Earth, peaked here at #10.

9. Undercover – The Rolling Stones

To say that sessions for this Stones album were tense would be an understatement. Mick and Keith were musically, and personally, strained, and the result was a hard edged, dark Stones album called Undercover. It broke the 8-album streak of #1 albums for the Stones, peaking at #4, and it drops five to #9 on January 25, 1984.

8. Pyromania – Def Leppard

Def Leppard tried something new for their third album. They recorded all the parts to a drum machine track, overdubbing the real drums later. That surely worked, for Pyromania stands as the group’s most successful album. It’s sold more than ten million copies and, after peaking at the top spot, was #8 on January 25, 1984.

7. Genesis – Genesis

After a world tour, and a nice break, Genesis got back together in the studio for their 12th album. They wrote, recorded and mixed the whole thing at their new studio, The Farm, and their self titled effort was their biggest seller to date. It’s #7 on this week’s Thursday Top 10 Countdown.

6. Eliminator – ZZ Top

Everything came together for ZZ Top for their eighth album. The songs, the videos, the fuzzy guitars! Eliminator was #6 on January 25, 1984, and here’s the one that got it all started.

5. Uh-Huh – John Mellencamp

After the breakthrough success of American Fool, John Mellencamp added his real last name to his albums and released a killer set called Uh-Huh. While it did’t hit #1 like its predecessor, it still sold well, and peaked at #5 on this week’s countdown.

4. An Innocent Man – Billy Joel

Billy Joel took most of his musical influences, and wrote a song in the style of each one for his album, An Innocent Man. It got as high as #4 on January 25, 1984, and this one is pure Four Seasons-inspired.

3. Metal Health – Quiet Riot

How big was Quiet Riot’s third album, Metal Health? SO big that after ten months on the charts, it was still holding steady at #3 on January 25, 1984!

2. Synchronicity – The Police

Sting told me a few months back that a 40th anniversary Synchronicity reissue was in the works, and that it would contain his original demos. We haven’t heard anything more yet, but we’ll surely keep you posted if we do. In the meantime, that album is #2 on our countdown!

1. 90125 – Yes

At the top of our chart this week is the 11th studio album by one of our most beloved bands. After a less than spectacular-selling 10th album, the first without their legendary lead singer, they brought him back, added another member, and ended up with the biggest album of their career, selling over three million copies., #1 on January 25, 1984 was 90125 by Yes!

The post Radical “Changes” Gave Yes Their Biggest Album appeared first on 102.9 WMGK.

On paper, a live album is fantastic idea. It can almost capture the feeling of being there in person. Man, there have been some incredible live albums released over the years. James Brown Live At The Apollo, Frampton Comes Alive, The Allman Brothers’ Live At the Fillmore and Cheap Trick’s Live At Budokan are some classic examples. In the mid 70s, almost everyone I knew had a copy of another classic live album, Alive! by Kiss. As we’ve come to find out about that LP, barely anything about that album was “live.”

How “Alive!” Came To Be

By 1974, Kiss’s record label, Casablanca Records, was having some financial difficulties. A Johnny Carson double album, featuring highlights from his “Tonight Show,” was a bomb, and the label lost a ton of dough.

Teetering on the verge of bankruptcy, Casablanca Records needed cash. Label head Neal Bogart, in what was considered a rather desperate move at the time, arranged for the release of the first KISS live album. Granted, the label couldn’t even pay to have the shows recorded. KISS’s manager, Bill Aucoin, had to foot the bill himself, at a cost of over a quarter million dollars.

Aucoin had enough money to record four of KISS’s shows during their Dressed To Kill tour in the spring of 1975. One of the shows they recorded was in Wildwood, NJ of all places, at the Wildwoods Convention Center. They also recorded KISS concerts in Detroit, Cleveland, and Davenport, Iowa.

Is It Live, Or..?

In listening to the tapes, it was quite clear an album couldn’t be released in its current form. While KISS shows were certainly full of onstage action and excitement, it didn’t make for very clean recordings. The band and label brought in legendary producer Eddie Kramer (Led Zeppelin, Jimi Hendrix, etc.) to help. And help he did. He brought the band into Electric Lady Studios in New York City, where they worked on repairing the unusable parts. The stories have changed over the years, but it’s generally understood that only Peter Criss’s drums are actually from those live shows. The rest were all overdubbed at Electric Lady with the band and Eddie Kramer. Even the crowd parts were changed. Kramer would take the loudest crowd cheers and mix them in throughout the songs.

So, while Alive! is the classic Kiss live album that isn’t really live, it’s hard to argue its success. For one thing, it helped save Casablanca Records from going under. After that album, disco hit big, and the label made a boatload of money. KISS’s Alive! tops our Thursday Top 10 Countdown for January 18, 1976.

10. Born To Run – Bruce Springsteen

I love how, for many years afterward, Bruce and The Big Man would replicate their pose on the cover of Born To Run in concert. It was an iconic cover, AND album, and was #10 on January 18, 1976.

9. Wish You Were Here – Pink Floyd

Pink Floyd’s legendary tribute to Syd, the second album to give a nod to him, was recorded over a six month period at Abbey Road Studios in London. While initial reviews were mixed, it’s stood the test of time as another Pink Floyd masterwork. Wish You Were Here drops to #9 on our Thursday Top 10 Countdown this week.

8. A NIght At The Opera – Queen

At the time, it was billed as the most expensive album ever made, and Queen’s A Night At The Opera gave them their first international exposure. It hit #1 in the U.K. and #4 over here, and on its way there, it was #8 on January 18, 1976.

7. Toys In The Attic – Aerosmith

Aerosmith had only written four songs for their fourth album, and the rest were basically made up in the studio. It turned into their most commercially successful album, approaching ten million copies sold. On this week’s countdown, Toys In The Attic is #7.

6. Fleetwood Mac – Fleetwood Mac

Chart success was only beginning for Fleetwood Mac. Their tenth album, self-titled, was on a long, slow crawl to the #1 position. It would eventually hit it in September, but on January 18, 1976, Fleetwood Mac was #6.

5. Who By Numbers – The Who

John Entwistle was not only the bass and horn player in The Who, he was quite the artist as well. He designed the cover for the band’s seventh studio album, The Who By Numbers. The album peaked here at #5 on MGK’s Thursday Top 10 Countdown.

4. One Of These Nights – Eagles

The Eagles’ Glenn Frey, who we lost 8 years ago today (1/18), called this Eagles album “a Philly record,” meaning the songs had a bit of that Philly Sigma Sound/R&B sound. One Of These Nights became the first in a string of #1 albums for the group, and dropped to #4 on January 18, 1976.

3. Face The Music – Electric Light Orchestra

Thanks to being the opening act for Deep Purple during their ’74 US tour, Electric Light Orchestra got a whole new group of fans, and the album that followed that tour, Face The Music, was their biggest U.S. hit thus far, and the first ELO album to go platinum. On January 18, 1976, it peaked at #3.

2. Red Octopus – Jefferson Starship

In 1974, Jefferson Airplane emerged with a new sound and a new name..Jefferson Starship. Their second album under this new moniker would be their biggest to date. After hitting the #1 spot three separate times, each for just one week, Red Octopus drops one to #2.

1. Alive! – Kiss

Topping the chart this week is the fourth album, and first live work, by KISS. After the band’s record company took a big chance releasing this album, it paid off big dividends for both the label and the group, and still stands today as one of Classic Rock’s greatest live albums..even though most of it was a product of the studio. The #1 rock album on January 18, 1976 was Alive! by KISS!

The post The Classic Kiss Live Album That Isn’t Really Live appeared first on 102.9 WMGK.

This show is a special gift for fans of John, Paul, George, and Ringo. Join me as I serve up 8 straight hours of Beatles beginning at 4 p.m. on December 24, 2023. 8 hours! That’s a “Long, Long, Long” time. May it be the perfect soundtrack to your cookie-baking and gift-wrapping. I’ll take you up to midnight. We can ring in Christmas Day together.

It’s so much fun putting together this show every year. It’s a chance to hear our boys, uninterrupted, as the final holiday preparations finish up. For me, it’s a true labor of love, and I can’t wait to spend Christmas Eve with you and my favorite band in the land this Christmas Eve! It’s going to be the best Beatles Christmas Eve “Across The Universe”. Let’s simply have a wonderful Christmastime!

If your holiday plans take you outside of our listening area, take MGK along with you “Here, There, and Everywhere” so you don’t miss a single Beatles song! Download our new and improved mobile app wherever you get your apps, and get more information on our upgraded app here.

The post Andre Gardner’s Christmas Eve With The Beatles Is Back In 2023 appeared first on 102.9 WMGK.

Tom produced all of those artists, plus Blue Öyster Cult, Dokken, and Krokus, to name a few more. Even though there are a lot of heavy metal names on that list, he also signed REO Speedwagon and produced Glass Tiger, Mother’s Finest and The Producers. Throughout his distinguished career, Tom Werman produced two dozen gold and platinum albums. He would have had more: he was ready to sign Kiss, Rush and Lynyrd Skynyrd as well, but his record label turned him down!

A Change Of Career

After years of producing successful albums, Tom retired from music in 2001. The following year, he and his wife Suky opened a luxury bed and breakfast in the Berkshires of Massachusetts called Stonover Farm. Back in 2021, my wife and I were looking for places to stay up in that area and I found the Stonover Farm website. It was gorgeous, with rolling acres of hills, a duck pond, and several properties in which to stay. When I realized it was owned by Tom Werman, I HAD to stay there!

My wife, daughter, dog and I had the most wonderful time at the farm. We started each morning with the “Tomlette” – a delicious homemade omelette, prepared by Tom himself – and had the most relaxing vacation. Admittedly, the entire time were there I kept bugging Tom to sit down for an interview, because I knew he had amazing stories to share. Alas, our schedules didn’t align the week I was there.

Tom writes the memoir!

Needless to say I was thrilled to hear that Tom is about to publish his memoir. It’s called “Turn It Up! My Time Making Hit Records In The Glory Days Of Rock Music” and it’s out on November 21. I immediately contacted the publicist for the book who very kindly sent me a copy. I read it over two days and absolutely loved it! Reading that book, I felt like I was right there in the recording studio with Tom and the bands he produced, and living his exciting life. It’s an honest and funny memoir, telling his stories of working with some of these musicians, and I couldn’t recommend it highly enough.

My Interview WIth Tom Werman

I got my long awaited chance to chat with Tom Werman about his career, and I really enjoyed our conversation. I hope you do, too!

You can order Tom Werman’s great new memoir here.

The post Mötley Crue, Cheap Trick And Poison Producer Tells His Story appeared first on 102.9 WMGK.

September, 1979 was a crazy time in and out of the music world. For the first time, women were deployed overseas in the U.S. Navy. The price of gold hit $400 an ounce for the first time (it’s almost $2000 today). The “No Nukes” concert protesting nuclear energy was held at the Garden in New York. It featured Bruce Springsteen, Tom Petty, Crosby Still and Nash and Bonnie Raitt, just to name a few. In sports, 16 year old Tracy Austin became the youngest U.S. player to win a U.S. Open singles final.

1979 in Music

In the music world, disco was peaking and punk/new wave was on the rise. A slew of exciting new bands from England and the U.S. were putting out some really clever albums. it would also be the last time we’d get a studio album by Led Zeppelin, which will figure prominently in this week’s Countdown. That year, we also lost Lowell George and Sid Vicious.

18 Year Old Kid Plays Disco Music on AM

I was doing 10pm-2am at WZZD (990 AM) in Philadelphia in September, 1979. Originally the legendary WIBG, and then known as “Wizzard 100,” the station played disco/dance music..on AM. Even though we had a killer lineup of DJs like Glen Kalina and Bill O’Brien, it was not exactly a ratings success. This was because WCAU-FM (98.1) was ALSO playing dance music, but on FM. I had fun, even though I wasn’t 100% into the music, but I definitely saw the writing on the wall. Word started getting out that Fairbanks Broadcasting, the owners of WZZD, were going to sell the radio station to a religious broadcasting company. That meant that it wouldn’t be long before the on air staff would be shown the door and the format changed. I resigned, and stayed at WPST/Trenton doing weekends until a full time gig opened up.

Save The Vinyl!

Soon after, it was confirmed that the station was sold and would be changing their format. In their infitie wisdom, they were going to throw away the entire WIBG/WZZD vinyl library. There thousands of records, many going back to the WIBBAGE days of the 50s. An engineer pal of mine who worked there, and I, sprung into action. We pulled up in our cars to the front steps of WZZD while I was on the air, opened our trunks and proceeded to dispose of the vinyl ourselves…into our collections! We brought dozens of trash bags to fill with 45s and LPs. It was glorious!! I am so glad we snagged that stuff. I still have a lot of those 45s and many LPs in my collection.

But I digress. Here are MGK’s Top 10 rock albums from September 21, 1979:

10. Secrets – Robert Palmer

We kick things off with the 5th album by Robert Palmer, his highest charting album at that point. Secrets peaked here at #10 and it also gave Palmer his first top 10 hit song!

9. The Cars – The Cars

It’s an interesting countdown this week, as there are two albums by The Cars! Their classic debut hangs on at #9 on September 21, 1979.

8. Low Budget – The Kinks

On December 14, 1978, the movie “Superman” with Christopher Reeve in the title role, premiered in U.K. theaters. Ray Davies of The Kinks, a huge Superman comic book fan, saw the movie as soon as it came out. He was so impressed that he immediately wrote and recorded “(Wish I Could Fly Like) Superman,” one of the band’s best known songs. It’s off of Low Budget, #8 on MGK’s Thursday Top 10 Countdown.

7. Discovery – Electric Light Orchestra

“Don’t Bring Me Down” by Electric Light Orchestra holds two distinctions in their career. For one, it was their highest charting single in the U.S., plus it was the first E.L.O. song recorded without strings! It’s a straight ahead rocker, and it’s off of the #7 rock album from September 21, 1979, Discovery.

6. Rust Never Sleeps – Neil Young

Neil Young broke up his Rust Never Sleeps tour into two segments, electric, with Crazy Horse, and acoustic. That’s how he released the album of the same name, which is #6 on the countdown this week.

5. Million Mile Reflections – Charlie Daniels Band

The inspiration for the next album’s title came from the number of miles this group had traveled on the road! The Charlie Daniels Band are at #5 on the countdown with Million Mile Reflections.

4. Breakfast In America – Supertramp

After spending an amazing six weeks at the #1 position, Supertramp’s crown jewel Breakfast In America dropped to #4 on September 21, 1979.

3. Candy-O – The Cars

Making their second appearance on this week’s countdown are The Cars. The very impressive followup to their debut was called Candy-O, and it peaked here at #3.

2. Get The Knack – The Knack

Recorded in just two weeks at a budget of less than 20 grand, Get The Knack, The Knack’s debut album, skyrocketed to the top of the charts, staying there for five weeks. On September 21, 1979, it slipped one to #2!

1. In Through The Out Door – Led Zeppelin

At the top of the charts this week is the eighth and final studio album by one of the true legendary classic rock bands. Recorded at Abba’s studio in Stockholm, Sweden, it hit #1 on its second week of release, selling over one and a half million copies in just 14 days. The #1 rock album on September 21, 1979 was In Through The Out Door by Led Zeppelin.

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This Day In History

President Ford formally pardoned his predecessor, Richard Nixon, Billie Jean King defeated Yvonne Goolagong in three sets to win the women’s singles championship at the U.S. Open, and Jeff “Skunk” Baxter left Steely Dan to join The Doobie Brothers, all in September, 1974.

Memories of September, 1974

Man, do a lot of memories come back when I see that list of albums. I was just starting high school at Shawnee High School in Medford, NJ, and meeting so many new friends. At home, my pirate FM radio station was ramping up in Medford Lakes, NJ, as my dad helped increase our power to over a mile radius. We actually started to get listeners and the requests would come in fast and furiously. Not bad for a radio station in my bedroom! Check this shot below of my pirate setup from September, 1974! I’m sitting by the big black request line phone, waiting for calls to come in, and my friend Tom does his shift on my station, WAVG!

Before we show you the albums, here are some of the top pop singles from September 14, 1974. I’m certain my pirate station was playing these hits, as well as the albums:

“Rock Me Gently” – Andy Kim
“I’m Leaving (It) All Up To You” – Donny And Marie Osmond
“Can’t Get Enough Of Your Love, Babe” – Barry White
“Rock Me Gently” – Andy Kim
“(You’re) Having My Baby” – Paul Anka f. Odia Coates

See what memories they bring back for YOU!

10. Moontan – Golden Earring

This album originally came out in 1973 in Europe, with a cover deemed unsuitable for the U.S. audience! Moontan by Golden Earring, with it’s less racy cover, was the #10 rock album on September 14, 1974.

9. Second Helping – Lynyrd Skynyrd

Lynyrd Skynyrd’s popularity continued to increase with their sophomore album, Second Helping. It’s #9 on the countdown, and features this great cover of a J.J. Cale song.

8. Band On The Run – Paul McCartney And Wings

It’s regarded as Paul McCartney’s finest solo effort and, nine months after it was released, Band On The Run held a firm grip in the top 10, this week holding at #8.

7. Bridge Of Sighs – Robin Trower

Robin Trower saw success both as a founding member of the legendary band Procol Harum, and as a solo artist.  His biggest hit as a solo performer was Bridge Of Sighs, the #7 rock album on September 14, 1974.

6. Not Fragile – Bachman-Turner Overdrive

It’s the first of two appearances by Bachman-Turner Overdrive on the countdown this week.  The first is an album that was only on the charts for three weeks.  On its way to the top spot, Not Fragile is the #6 rock album on this week’s Thursday Top 10 Countdown.

5. Caribou – Elton John

Interestingly, neither Elton, the band or their producer were very happy with Caribou, Elton’s eighth album.  They all felt it was rushed, as it had to be quickly recorded and mixed before Elton was to head out for a tour of Japan.  The fans didn’t object – it was another chart topper for Sir Elton, and on September 14, 1974 it dropped to #5.

4. Chicago VII – Chicago

Of all the hit songs in the huge Chicago catalog, only one was written by their trumpet player, Lee Loughnane.  It was “Call On Me,” sung not by Loughnane but by Peter Cetera, and it’s off of Chicago VII. The album is #4 on this week’s countdown.

3. BTO II – Bachman-Turner Overdrive

Event though Not Fragile was quickly climbing the chart, BTO’s second album BTO II was still holding onto the top 5. It was #3 on September 14, 1974.

2. 461 Ocean Boulevard – Eric Clapton

Eric Clapton’s “comeback” album was one of the biggest of his career. Recorded in the sun in beautiful Miami, 461 Ocean Boulevard is the #2 rock album on MGK’s Thursday Top 10 Countdown.

1. Bad Company – Bad Company

Topping the charts this week is the debut album by the first band signed to Led Zeppelin’s newly-formed Swan Song Records.  In making the album the band took advantage of a break in Zeppelin recording sessions, and took up shop at Headley Grange, where they solidified themselves instantly as a force to be reckoned with.  The #1 rock album on September 14, 1974 was Bad Company by Bad Company.

The post MGK’s Top 10 Rock Albums From September 14, 1974 appeared first on 102.9 WMGK.

10. Escape – Journey

The album that turned Journey into international superstars was their seventh called Escape. Over a year after it first entered the charts, it was still in the top 10 at #10.

9. All Four One – The Motels

The Motels hailed from Berkley, California, and hit it big with their third album, All Four One. It peaked here at #9 and gave the band their first, and biggest, hit, “Only The Lonely.”

8. Three Sides Live – Genesis

The third live album by Genesis, called Three Sides Live, was just that. It was three sides of a double LP full of live recordings from 1976 through the Abacab tour in 1981, plus one side of Abacab studio outtakes, and tracks from an earlier EP. The album peaked here at #8 and let’s play one of those great studio recordings on side 4!

7. Toto IV – Toto

Former studio musicians-turned-rockstars Toto scored in a big way with their fourth album, Toto IV. It peaked at #4 on the chart, won them three Grammy awards in 1983, and gave them their first #1 single, “Africa.” Toto IV was #7 on August 17, 1982.

6. Daylight Again – Crosby Stills And Nash

What started out as a Stills-Nash album project turned into the whole CSN shooting match, with Daylight Again, the #5 rock album on August 17, 1982. From it is this Crosby, Stills And Nash classic.

5. Abracadabra – Steve Miller Band

After his previous album was a bit of a disappointment in terms of sales, Steve Miller came right back with his biggest selling album in several years. Abracadabra was #5 on August 17, 1982, on its way to peaking at #3.

4. American Fool – John Cougar

It took five albums before the kid known as John Cougar became a household name. This is the one that did it for him – American Fool, which hit the top spot in the summer of 1982, and drops to #4 this week.

3. Asia – Asia

The hype preceding this album’s release was HUGE, and the band surely lived up to it. The self-titled debut album by Asia not only hit #1 on the chart, it was the biggest selling album of the year! It was #3 on August 17, 1982.

2. Eye Of The Tiger – Survivor

This next song spent fifteen weeks in the top 10, and was the second biggest selling single of the year, behind Olivia Newtown-John’s “Physical.” It’s “Eye Of The Tiger” by Survivor, the title track from the #2 rock album on MGK’s Thursday Top 10 Countdown.

1. Mirage – Fleetwood Mac

Topping the charts this week is the thirteenth album by a truly legendary band. After taking a year off for the members to explore solo projects, they returned to a Chateau in France, the same place where Goodbye Yellow Brick Road was recorded, and made a solid album which became their third to top the charts. #1 on August 17, 1982 was Mirage by Fleetwood Mac.

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The First Chills

I first noticed it around age 6, when either my brothers or father brought me home the latest Beatles 45.  On this particular occasion, I put on the a-side, “All You Need Is Love.” I’d heard it for a few days on WIBG (“Wibbage!”) It was pure joy from start to finish.  I flipped the disc over and on came “Baby You’re A Rich Man.”  Again, the track was incredible and I loved it, hearing it for the first time on my little turntable.  At precisely 1:45 into the song, right at the start of the third verse, and continuing until 1:57, I started feeling tingly all over the upper bart of my body, right as I was grooving on the opening of the third verse. It peaked as John and Paul sang “tuned to a natural E!”  On the “E”, I got, and still often get, an intense rush.  Only a handful of songs/passages affect me this way, interestingly.

I’m Not Alone, This Is An Actual Thing

It wasn’t until I started browsing the good old internet back in the mid-90s, that I stumbled onto some article that actually addressed this, and gave it a name:  frisson.  It’s a French word, meaning literally, “a shiver.”  Certain events in our lives can cause this sensation outside of music, but I was simply fascinated by the effect a tune could have on me.

Back in 2016, several distinguished doctors published a study, which was later quoted in less technical terms in a Discovery.com article, that shed some interesting light on this phenomenon.  One takeaway is that roughly only 50 percent of people experience these sensations.  Also, they pointed to a possibility that people’s brains are wired differently who have felt frisson, due to excess wiring attached to the emotion receptors of the brain.

Now that I know I’m not alone, do YOU experience this sensation? I’d love to hear if you do, and which songs do that to you. Let me know on the MGK Facebook page.

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10. Climbing! – Mountain

The OTHER big man, Leslie West, scored his biggest success post-Woodstock with this strong debut album from his band Mountain. Climbling! was #10 on August 10, 1970.

9. Alone Together – Dave Mason

If you were lucky, you bought this in a record store, opened it up, and it was on marble colored vinyl!  About a third of the copies of Dave Mason’s solo debut Alone Together came in that form.  It peaked at #9 and opens up with one of his most popular tracks.

8. Eric Burdon Declares “War” – Eric Burdon And War

The pairing of The Animals’ Eric Burdon with L.A.’s funkiest band latest all of two albums, the first being Eric Burdon Declares “War”. It peaked here at #8 on August 10, 1970 and gives me an excuse to play “Spill The Wine!”

7. John Barleycorn Must Die – Traffic

After the demise of Blind Faith, Steve Winwood set to work on his first solo album, which was to be called Mad Shadows. Instead, he brought in a few of his Traffic bandmates to join him, and it became Traffic’s fourth album called John Barleycorn Must Die. It’s #7 on MGK’s Thursday Top 10 Countdown this week, and it features one of Winwood’s finest songs.

6. Live At Leeds – The Who

Next up is one of the most powerful live albums ever made, The Who’s Live At Leeds. Leeds was Leeds University, where the show was recorded and after peaking at #4, it slips a bit to #6 on August 10, 1970.

5. Chicago II – Chicago

Technically this album is called, simply, Chicago, since it was the first album under the band’s newly shortened name.  Nowadays it’s known as Chicago II, the #5 rock album on MGK’s Thursday Top 10 Countdown.

4. Deja Vu – Crosby, Stills, Nash And Young

No matter that hardly any of the songs from this album were recorded with the band actually together in the studio, Deja Vu from CSNY cemented the trio, now quartet, into Classic Rock history.  It hit #1 for one week before dropping to #4 on August 10, 1970.

3. McCartney – Paul McCartney

Recording in secret under the name Billy Martin, Paul McCartney managed to keep his debut solo album a total secret from the world, AND the other three Beatles.  It signaled the end of the band and beginning of a stellar solo career for Macca. McCartney is #3 on this week’s countdown, and was hot on the heels of an album by his newly former band.

2. Let It Be – The Beatles

The last Beatles studio album released, but not recorded, was Let It Be.  The band’s swan song, the lone album produced by Phil Spector, was the #2 rock album on the 10th of August, 1970.

1. Cosmo’s Factory – Creedence Clearwater Revival

At the top of the chart this week is the fifth studio album by one of America’s biggest bands.  In fact, it was their fourth album in a year and a half, just incredible output.  This one was huge, hitting #1 and staying there for nine weeks! #1 on August 10, 1970 was Cosmos’s Factory by Creedence Clearwater Revival.

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On this day in 1975, the revamped lineup of Fleetwood Mac released their tenth studio album. It was called, simply, “Fleetwood Mac.” Gone was guitarist and vocalist Bob Welch, and in were Stevie Nicks and Lindsey Buckingham. Mick Fleetwood met them, and producer Keith Olsen, at Sound City Studios in Los Angeles. After hearing a track from the duo’s debut album Buckingham Nicks, he offered them, and Olson, a gig.

The Fleetwood Mac album was recorded in a little over a month in January and February, 1975. Songs recorded included several Steve Nicks and Lindsey Buckingham songs the duo were planning to use for their second album. Not long after, the band hit the road for an exhaustive U.S. tour to support the album. The tour kicked off May 15, and the album was released on July 11, which gave the band a chance to preview the songs while on the road. They even performed two Buckingham Nicks songs, and even a song from Christine McVie’s days in the band Chicken Shack.

On the tour’s first leg, from May 15 to June 8, they only took two days off. For the second leg, they did 53 shows in three months, including stops at the Tower Theater on May 29 and The Spectrum on October 11. Stevie Nicks would later say their grueling tour of the U.S. that year helped push sales of the new album.

And she’s not wrong. The album peaked at #1 on the chart, but not until almost 16 months after it first came out. It was a combination of the band hitting so many cities, plus the support from radio, that kept the album alive and gave it its slow climb to the top. Even then, it only stayed at #1 for one week. Since then, Fleetwood Mac has gone on to sell over 7 million copies in the U.S.

Sure, none of those feats equalled their followup, Rumours, but I’m here to tell you I think it’s every bit as good as Rumours. A track-by-track analysis may help prove my point:

Monday Morning

The album begins with Fleetwood Mac letting us know immediately that this is a huge departure in sound for this band. This was one of the songs Buckingham was planing to use for the never-recorded second Buckingham Nicks album. It’s catchy and gets it done in under three minutes. A perfect opening track.

Warm Ways

Released as a single only in the UK, this Christine McVie-penned song is just lovely. Her beautiful lead vocal is the perfect compliment to the smooth-as-silk backing track. I feel like her songwriting was at a peak with this album, one of several during her career.

Blue Letter

This is one of the least Fleetwood Mac-sounding songs on a Mac album, and for good reason. It was not written by a member of the band, but by a songwriting duo of brothers named Richard and Michael Curtis.  They were friends with Buckingham and Nicks, which is why Lindsey is singing the vocal on it.  It’s a fine song.

Rhiannon

Another song originally slated for the second Buckingham Nicks album, this was the second single released from the album, and it soon became one of Fleetwood Mac’s most beloved tracks.  Live versions of this song from the ’75-’77 tours are legendary.

Over My Head

Another fantastic song written and sung by Christine McVie, this was the first single released from the album.  Interestingly, most of the singles that came off of this album were remixed and, in the case of “Over My Head,” the remix was quite radical!
Here’s the album version:

 
And this is the single remix:

Crystal

“Crystal” was originally released on the Buckingham Nicks album, then rearranged and rerecorded for the Fleetwood Mac album.  It’s one of the few songs in the Fleetwood Mac catalog that was written by Stevie, but sung by Lindsey.

Say You Love Me

Yet another catchy, melody-driven song written by Christine McVie, and one of her best. Love those harmonies! It was released as the third single from the album and, once again, was remixed. Here’s the version off of Fleetwood Mac:

and the single remix, with more guitars:

Landslide

It didn’t take Buckingham and Nicks long to make an impact in Fleetwood Mac, and this song is the best example.  They’re the only two playing and singing on this beautiful track.  Since its release, “Landslide” has remained one of the most beloved songs in the band’s canon.  Personally, I love this one more than any track on Rumours.

World Turning

Partially written as an homage to former bandmate Peter Green, “World Turning” is the lone Buckingham/McVie composition on Fleetwood Mac.  It’s basically a re-write of Green’s song “The World Keep On Turning,” a track on the Mac’s debut album. The jam at the end is SO good!

Sugar Daddy

Long time session player Waddy Wachtel guests on guitar on this Christine McVie song.  Waddy also played on several tracks on the Buckingham Nicks album.  This could easily have been released as a single, like “Landslide.”

I’m So Afraid

The final track on Fleetwood Mac is a Lindsey Buckingham composition that dated back to 1971.  He spent a long time working out the arrangement of the guitars, creating what he termed a “virtual orchestra.”  It’s a haunting rocker, with killer harmonies and excellent production, and is a fine way to wrap up this wonderful album.

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10. Whitesnake – Whitesnake

Kicking things off is the seventh studio album by David Coverdale’s post-Deep Purple band, Whitesnake. It was the band’s breakthrough, and it was still rocking the top 10 over 15 months after it first came out. Whitesnake is #10.

9. Tunnel Of Love – Bruce Springsteen

While this was billed as a solo Bruce Springsteen album, with Bruce playing on most of it himself, three of his E Street bandmates DO play on this track, taken from the #9 rock album on July 6, 1988, Tunnel Of Love.

8. A Momentary Lapse Of Reason – Pink Floyd

Roger Waters and David Gilmour were still suing each other over the rights to use the Pink Floyd name, when the band’s thirteenth album was released, sans Waters. Gilmour would later say that A Momentary Lapse Of Reason was a tough one to make without Waters’ presence but, nonetheless, it peaked at #3 and has sold over 4 million copies.  On the countdown this week, it’s #8.

7. Permanent Vacation – Aerosmith

With guidance from their A&R man John Kalodner John Kalodner, production tweaking from Bruce Fairburn, and a host of outside writers to punch up their songs, Aerosmith scored big time with Permanent Vacation, peaking here at #7 on July 6, 1988.

6. Kick – INXS

It’s hard to believe that Atlantic Records, the U.S. record label of INXS, rejected this album when the band presented it to them, saying it was too “dance-y” and would alienate their audience.  After the band’s manager leaked copies of this song to some radio stations and it caught on, Atlantic finally released Kick, and it was the band’s biggest seller.  It’s #6 on this week’s Thursday Top 10 Countdown.

5. Now And Zen – Robert Plant

While this next track may be a rocking effort by Robert Plant, it’s one of the earliest rock recordings to feature sampling, albeit by his previous band, Led Zeppelin. Jimmy Page is also featured on live guitar, on “Tall Cool One.” It’s off of Plant’s fourth solo album, and the #5 rock album on the countdown, Now And Zen.

4. Appetite For Destruction – Guns ‘N Roses

On its way to becoming the best selling debut album of all time, Appetite For Destruction by Guns ‘n Roses was still firmly rooted in the top 5, almost a year after it came out.  On July 6, 1988, it was #4.

3. Open Up And Say Ahh – Poison

Kiss’ Paul Stanley was supposed to produce the second album by Poison, but his schedule got in the way.  Instead, veteran hard rock producer Tom Werman was brought in to make the band’s biggest album, Open Up And Say Ahh.  It’s the #3 rock album on our countdown this week.

2. Hysteria – Def Leppard

Def Leppard’s long-awaited follow-up to Pyromania did not disappoint.  It was filled with great songs and top notch playing and production, even outsold Pyromania, becoming Def Leppard’s biggest album. Eleven months after it hit the stores, Hysteria was still gong strong at #2 on July 6, 1988.

1. OU812 – Van Halen

Topping the chart this week is the eighth studio album by one of the biggest rock bands in all of classic rock.  They had no sooner finished their tour, then they went into their custom built studio and made what would be their second chart topper in a row..something they weren’t able to do with their founding lead singer. #1 on July 6, 1988 was OU812 by Van Halen.

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10. Paranoid – Black Sabbath

Not every classic we play was written and recorded in a matter of hours, but that’s what happened with “Paranoid,” the title track from Black Sabbath’s second album, and the #10 rock album on the countdown.

9. Abraxas – Santana

On this recording by Santana would be a future member of Journey!  That’s Greg Rollie on keyboards and vocals on “Black Magic Woman,” taken from the #9 rock album on June 29, 1971, Abraxas.

8. Emerson, Lake And Palmer – Emerson, Lake and Palmer

Emerson, Lake and Palmer formed in the spring of 1970 and, before long, they were hard at work on their debut album. The self-titled Emerson, Lake and Palmer peaked here at #9 on June 29, 1971.

7. Pearl – Janis Joplin

It’s so sad that Janis Joplin never lived to see the success of this album, the legendary Pearl. After hitting #1 and staying there for nine weeks, it drops this week to #7 on the countdown.

6. Tea For The Tillerman – Cat Stevens

Not only did Cat Stevens write all of the songs for his wonderful fourth album, Tea For The Tillerman, he designed the album’s cover!  Not surprising, as he was a former art student.  The album peaked here at #6 on June 29, 1971.

5. L.A. Woman – The Doors

The final album by the Doors’ original lineup was recorded at the bands’ offices in L.A., giving them more freedom and more time to make the record, and even finding a good spot for Jim Morrison to lay down the vocals…in the lower level bathroom with the tiled walls! L.A. Woman is the #5 rock album on this week’s Thursday Top 10 Countdown.

4. Aqualung – Jethro Tull

You can catch former Jethro Tull guitarist Martin Barre June 29th (tonight) for a free show at the Newton Theater in Newton, NJ.  No doubt he’ll be performing this one – “Locomotive Breath” – from the #4 rock album on June 29, 1971, Aqualung.

3. Ram – Paul And Linda McCartney

Paul McCartney’s second solo album would mark the third time a former Beatle recorded an album in the U.S.  George Harrison recorded parts of his Electronic Sounds album in L.A. in 1968, Ringo made an album two years later in Nashville, and Paul and Linda would work in both Los Angeles and New York on Ram, the #3 rock album on June 29, 1971.

2. Sticky Fingers – The Rolling Stones

Back after a two year absence on the album charts, The Rolling Stones returned with not only a new album, but their own record label, Rolling Stones Records, complete with the most iconic logo in all of Classic Rock.  The album was Sticky Fingers and it peaked at #2 on the countdown this week.

1. Tapestry – Carole King

At the top of the charts this week is the second studio album by a legendary songwriter.  After writing hit songs for others for over a decade with her former husband, she branched out on her own and captivated the world with her personal stories made to music.  In addition to hitting #1, it won four Grammys and has sold over 14 million copies since its release.  The #1 rock on June 29, 1971 was Tapestry by Carole King.

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Sadly, I never got the chance to meet John Entwistle, but I’ve had the honor of speaking with Chris Squire several times over the years.
I would absolutely put Squire in my top three rock bass players of all time, along with Paul McCartney and Flea. He blew me away when I heard him play on “Roundabout,” “Siberian Khatru” or “Heart Of The Sunrise.” While most of our conversations have been spent chatting about whatever tour or album he was promoting, I always have to sneak in a personal favorite question if I have time, and I HAD to ask him about his bass playing!

Here’s the clip, from April 18, 2011, where Chris and I chat about his playing, and his signature Rickenbacker bass. It never gets old getting to speak with your rock and roll heroes!

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The solutions ranged from building a self-contained mobile recording studio that could be booked for recording projects for an extended period of time, to outfitting giant mansions with gear, making sure there were enough accommodations for the artists to live there while making their album. Make your album on a yacht in the Virgin Islands? No problem! Do the drum track in the basement of an old mansion, surrounded by the boiler and the piping? If it sounds good, let’s do it! With recording studios on wheels like the Rolling Stones Mobile Studio or Ronnie Lane’s Mobile Studio, basically an Airstream camper outfitted with gear, artists could record their music pretty much wherever they wanted. And in the early 70s, they did! By the 80s, homemade recording rigs became available, so the possibilities were endless (as you’ll soon read!)

Not only was this, in many cases, a respite for the musicians while they worked, but a lot of the places where they recorded had incredible acoustics. The most famous example of that would be John Bonham’s drums on “When The Levee Breaks.” It was recorded up a small flight of stairs on a landing in the entry hall of Headley Grange. His drums came alive on that landing, and with the help of two Beyer M160 mics and a Binson Echo-Rec delay, engineered by Andy Johns, that iconic drum sound was born.

While there are certainly more examples, here are 11 examples of rock songs and albums recorded in odd and interesting places:

Billion Dollar Babies – Alice Cooper (a swanky mansion in Greenwich, CT)

Wanting to rehearse and record their sixth album away from the madness of New York City, Alice Cooper and his band made Billion Dollar Babies at the stately Galesi Estate, a 40-room mansion in Greenwich, Connecticut. Much of the album’s basic tracks were recorded here, with most of the work done in the huge ballroom or the greenhouse. Though Alice and band were not exactly welcomed by the neighbors – Alice said they were treated like “The Munsters” when they’d walk into town – one of the neighbors who were glad they were there was legendary actress Bette Davis. Word was she’d drive by the estate, blasting her horn and yelling for the boys to turn it up!

L.A. Woman – The Doors (their offices in West Hollywood)

As The Doors began sessions for their sixth album, their longtime producer Paul A. Rothchild quit, leaving them to work with their engineer Bruce Botnick on what would become L.A. Woman. To provide a more relaxing atmosphere for the band to work, they set up shop at their band office on Santa Monica Boulevard in West Hollywood, a freestanding two story building.  The offices were on the first floor and they set up a recording space on the second floor.  They recorded the entire album there, and Jim Morrison found the perfect place in the building to record his vocals: the lower level bathroom with its tiled walls – perfect acoustics!

Give Peace A Chance – John Lennon/Plastic Ono Band (a hotel room in Montreal, QC)

John Lennon wrote this classic for the ages while one of his “bed-ins” were happening in Montreal in the spring of 1969. Once Lennon came up with the idea for a song, he ordered some recording equipment be sent to Room 1742 at the Queen Elizabeth Hotel in downtown Montreal, and it was there that the song was recorded. People like Tommy Smothers, Petula Clark and Murray The K were in attendance and added to the festive atmosphere of the recording. The song did requite some post-production “sweetening,” though, and that was done by engineer Andre Perry. Perry would later open “Le Studio” in Morin Heights, QC, where Rush, The Police, David Bowie and Queensryche would later record.

London Town – Wings (Aboard A Yacht In the virgin Islands)

For a while there, Paul McCartney was on a tear of recording in wild locations.  In 1973, he worked on the bulk of Band On The Run in Lagos, Nigeria, the following year he went to Nashville to record “Junior’s Farm” and “Sally G,” and in 1977, he and his Wings band members made several tracks from their London Town album aboard a yacht, anchored in a secluded back bay just outside of St. Thomas in the Virgin Islands.  They had a total of three boats, one for recording (named “The Fair Carol”) and the other two (“Samala” and “El Toro”) for the band to live.  Everything went pretty much without a hitch and, a year later, Paul would set up shop in a castle in Kent!

Straight Shooter – Bad Company (Clearwell Castle)

After recording their debut album at Headley Grange (with drummer Simon Kirke setting his kit up in the basement, surrounded by the pipes and the water boiler!), Bad Company made their sophomore album Straight Shooter at Clearwell Castle, an 18th century gothic revival house situated in western England, not too far from Wales.  It was also at this castle that Peter Frampton recorded his Frampton album in 1974. Nowadays, Clearwell Castle is an in-demand wedding venue!

Rambler ’65 – Ben Vaughn (inside a 1965 Rambler American car)

Local rock/folk hero Ben Vaughn gets my award for recording an album in the oddest place.  He titled it after his favorite car, The Rambler American.  But he went one step further than that.  He recorded the entire album INSIDE HIS RAMBLER, parked in the driveway of his South Jersey home.  Somehow he managed to fit himself, his instruments, and all the recording equipment inside, and the album is amazing!! This is my favorite track:

Nothing But Time – Jackson Browne (on a tour bus driving down the NJ Turnpike)

The fifth album by Jackson Browne was going to be live, but with a twist.  Running On Empty was more of a travelogue about life on the road and, to achieve that effect, live recordings were mixed with songs recorded in hotel rooms and, in the case of this track, aboard the band’s tour bus as it was driving between gigs.  If you listen closely to this song, you can hear the bus’s engine humming as it tools down the New Jersey Turnpike.

Yer Blues – The Beatles (In A Closet Adjoining The Abbey Road Studio Two Control Room)

This is a strange one.  During recording of the White Album, John Lennon was always keen to change his voice or the sounds on the recordings in a dramatic way (just listen to “Revolution 9!”) The engineer, legendary producer Ken Scott, make a remark to John along the lines of “geez, at this rate you’ll want to record in that closet over there,” pointing to an equipment closet that adjoined the control room of Abbey Road Studio 2. About a week later, John had them set up mics and instruments in that exact closet, and it was there they did “Yer Blues,”

Songbird – Fleetwood Mac (onstage in an empty auditorium)

To compliment the soft, plaintive nature of this beautiful Christine McVie-penned tune, producer Ken Caillat suggested she record this gorgeous song from Rumours, alone, onstage at the Zellerbach Auditorium in Berkely, with no audience present. He placed a bottle of wine and a bouquet of flowers on her beautiful nine foot long Steinway piano that was brought in, and she totally nailed it.

Tusk – Fleetwood Mac (On The Field Of Dodger Stadium)

That brass section you hear on the title track of The Mac’s double post-Rumours album was none other than the USC Trojan Marching Band. The idea to use them, and record their performance on the field at Dodger Stadium, was the brainchild of Mick Fleetwood, and it only added to the quirky nature of the song.

Bad Company – Bad Company (Out In A Field at Midnight Under The Moonlight)

To get the atmosphere and vibe just right for the vocals on “Bad Company,” Paul Rodgers set up a mic waaaaay out in the field behind Headley Grange. Once cables were laid and tests made, Rodgers waited until midnight, with the full moon shining overhead, to lay down that tremendous vocal. I picture that in my head every time I hear the song.

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10. And Then There Were Three – Genesis

What do you name the album you and your band made after two members left in a three year span? Genesis titled it And Then There Were Three after the departure of Peter Gabriel and Steve Hackett. It would expose the band to a much bigger audience and, from there, their career took off. The album is #10 on the countdown.

9. Stranger In Town – Bob Seger And The Silver Bullet Band

Like he did on his previous album Night Moves, Bob Seger split his time working with both his Silver Bullet Band and the Muscle Shoals Rhythm Section on Stranger In Town, which was the #9 rock album on June 15, 1978.

8. City To City – Gerry Rafferty

Initially finding chart success with his former band Stealers Wheel, Gerry Rafferty became even bigger as a solo artist, thanks to this album.  City To City featured almost two dozen musicians and it was Rafferty’s apex, hitting #1 and going down in history as the album that knocked Saturday Night Fever off of the top spot. It drops this week to #8.

7. Running On Empty – Jackson Browne

The title of this album could be a reference to the tour buses Jackson Browne traveled on while he toured the U.S., or his energy level during that frantic two week stretch that was recorded for an album.  Regardless, Running On Empty is a great listen, and it was the #7 rock album on June 15, 1978.

6. The Stranger – Billy Joel

To say this was a make or break album for Billy Joel would be an understatement.  Had The Stranger not been a hit, Columbia would likely have dropped him from the label.  Instead, it was the biggest album he ever had.  Some nine months after it first entered the charts, it was still hanging in at #6. See you tomorrow, Billy!

5. Foreigner – Foreigner

Like Billy Joel’s The Stranger, Foreigner’s self-titled debut album would not leave the top 10.  It holds steady at #5 on June 15, 1978, 15 months after it came out.

4. Champagne Jam – Atlanta Rhythm Section

These former studio musicians-turned-rock stars, known as Atlanta Rhythm Section, had their biggest success with Champagne Jam, their seventh album, which peaked here at #4.

3. Slowhand – Eric Clapton

Eric Clapton brought in legendary producer Glyn Johns, who’d worked with The Beatles, The Stones and The Who, among others, to tighten up hin and his band during recording, and together they made Eric’s most successful album called Slowhand. On June 15, 1978 it was #3 and features covering one of his favorites once again, JJ Cale.

2. Earth – Jefferson Starship

The fourth album released under the Jefferson Starship moniker would be their last with both Grace Slick and Marty Balin.  Earth was the band’s third top 10 album, peaking at #2 on June 15, 1978.

1. London Town – Wings

At the top of the chart this week is the sixth album from a band led by a guy who was in one of the biggest bands of all time before this one.  In true 70s fashion, a majority of this album was recorded on a yacht parked in the Virgin Islands. It would be the band’s fifth chart topper on the rock charts. #1 on June 15, 1978 was London Town by Paul McCartney And Wings.

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10. Aladdin Sane – David Bowie

The sixth album by David Bowie was a pivotal one. He had created the Ziggy persona with his previous album – where would he go from here? He didn’t want to make “Ziggy, Part 2” so, while touring the US, he turned his attention to the people and places he visited along the way, and a new character was born..Aladdin Sane. The album of the same name peaked here at #10, and this was the first song he recorded for it, The Jean Genie.

9. Bloodshot – J. Geils Band

I remember getting this album when it first came out, and it was on red vinyl!  The third one from The J. Geils Band gave them their first taste of success with their first entry into the top 10.  Bloodshot was the #9 rock album on June 8, 1973.

8. Don’t Shoot Me, I’m Only The Piano Player – Elton John

Titled after a line said by Elton to legendary comedian Groucho Marx, Don’t Shoot Me, I’m Only The Piano Player was recorded in just 10 days, and became the first of two albums Sir Elton would release in 1973.  After hitting the top spot, the album is at #8 on the countdown this week.

7. The Captain And Me – Doobie Brothers

The success of The Doobie Brothers continued with their third album The Captain And Me.  It’s sold more than 2 million copies since its release, and on June 8, 1973, it was #8. Featuring keyboards by Little Feat’s Bill Payne, here is “China Grove.”

6. Made In Japan – Deep Purple

Unlike a majority of live albums, there were absolutely no post-production overdubs on Deep Purple’s Made In Japan.  What you hear is exactly how they performed it in Osaka and Tokyo in August, 1972.  From the Osaka show, here is their blistering live version of “Smoke On The Water” from the album, which is #6.

5. Billion Dollar Babies – Alice Cooper

Most of Alice Cooper’s sixth album was recorded at a swanky estate in Greenwich, Connecticut.  Imagine the neighbors’ reaction when those guys moved in to make Billion Dollar Babies.  It was a huge album for Alice, hitting #1, and drops to #5 on June 8, 1973.

4. Moving Waves – Focus

This was the one and only hit for the Dutch band Focus, which featured the first yodeling in a rock recording!  Thijs Van Leer does the vocal aerobics on “Hocus Pocus,” one of the greatest songs ever made (IMHO), and off of the #4 rock album on the countdown, Moving Waves.

3. The Dark Side Of The Moon – Pink Floyd

Only in its 12th week on the chart, Pink Floyd’s The Dark Side Of The Moon would remain on the top 200 for the next 15 years, and would have stayed longer had they not changed the rules!  On June 8, 1973, it was #3.

2. Houses Of the Holy – Led Zeppelin

The fifth album by Led Zeppelin picked right up with LZ IV left off, and Houses Of The Holy soared to the top of the charts before dropping one to #2 on MGK’s Thursday Top 10 Countdown.

1. Red Rose Speedway – Paul McCartney And Wings

Our #1 album this week is the second album by this former Beatle and his band.  It was recorded throughout much of 1972, and yielded so many songs that it was originally going to be a double album.  The record company nixed that idea, and it came out as a single, and the first one by this band to hit the #1 position.  At #1 on June 8, 1973, Red Rose Speedway by Paul McCartney And Wings.

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Once they leave our nest and get full-time jobs, I’m always curious to see where they’re headed. Some have stayed at the company or gone into the business world.

One is a former MGK Classic Rock Squad member who is now a successful entrepreneur, and I’d like to spotlight her. Meet Marlee Aversa:

Marlee spent a few years as a classic rock squad member and, after spending time in the corporate world, she and her husband Jerry founded M & J Games based in their hometown in South Jersey. Together, they have created a fun, and successful, family game called “What’s Next?”, where the players actually become the game pieces and do all sorts of fun things on a life-sized game board. The idea was borne out of the pandemic, and her family being quarantined, and I asked Marlee to stop by the MGK studios and tell us how she made the transition to self-employment, as well as what the future holds for M&J Games.

It was great to see her again, it had been quite a few years, and I was so happy for her success. Here’s our conversation:

Now that we’ve featured a Former MGK Classic Rock Squad member who is now a successful entrepreneur, I’ll see who else I can rope into coming in and chatting about what they’re doing these days!

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What is Good News From the C-Suite?

“C-Suite” refers to the executive-level managers within a company. Every month, Andre will talk directly with CEO’s of some of the most successful companies to discuss how they’re making a difference both with their business enterprise and the community they serve.

Nominate A Business Leader

Know a local business leader that really walks the walk when it comes to community service? Use your email to nominate them here:

MGK’s Good News from the C-Suite, with Andre Gardner…. presented by Comcast Business, Powering Possibilities

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10. Building The Perfect Beast – Don Henley

The beast, in this case, was Don Henley’s second solo album, recorded over a year and a half, and featuring over 25 different musicians and vocalists. Building The Perfect Beast was the #10 rock album on June 1, 1985, and here’s a track Don wrote with Mike Campbell of The Heartbreakers, who also produced the album.

9. Crazy From The Heat (EP) – David Lee Roth

David Lee Roth wasted no time, after leaving Van Halen, releasing his first solo music.  It was an EP of just four songs that were actually recorded while he was still with Van Halen, and it came out as Crazy From The Heat, the #9 rock album on the countdown.  On this cover of The Beach Boys’ “California Girls,” Roth is backed by Edgar Winter, Christopher Cross and Carl Wilson!

8. Centerfield – John Fogerty

This next album was made by one guy, and one guy only.  John Fogerty played every single instrument on this album, and it was his biggest as a solo artist.  The #8 rock album on June 1, 1985 was Centerfield.

7. The Power Station – The Power Station

They were a supergroup, named after the legendary NYC recording studio, and comprised of Robert Palmer, the two Taylors from Duran Duran, and Tony Thompson from Chic on drums.  They were The Power Station, and their debut album, featuring this blistering cover of the T. Rex classic, was #7 on June 1, 1985.

6. Southern Accents – Tom Petty And the Heartbreakers

Recorded over a two year period, and stressing out Tom Petty so much that he punched a wall in the studio and broke several bones in his left hand, Southern Accents was a fine work from Tom and the Heartbreakers, and was co-produced by Dave Stewart of the Eurythmics.  It’s the #6 rock album on this week’s Thursday Top 10 Countdown.

5. Reckless – Bryan Adams

On its way to selling more than 12 million copies worldwide, Bryan Adams’ crown jewel, Reckless, was still in the top five, eight months after its release.  It was #5 on June 1, 1985.

4. Songs From The Big Chair – Tears For Fears

Roland Orzabel and Curt Smith broke off from a band they were in called Graduate, and formed Tears For Fears.  Their second album was the one that hit #1 in multiple countries around the world and gave them worldwide fame, Songs From The Big Chair.  It’s #4 this week on our countdown.

3. Beverly Hills Cop (Original Motion Picture Soundtrack)

Eddie Murphy’s blockbuster movie featured an all star cast on the soundtrack as well.  We heard a clip from “Axel F” in our look at the top pop singles, and The Eagles’ Glenn Frey made a rocking contribution with “The Heat Is On,” which helped propel the album to #1.  After peaking at the top spot, it soundtrack album drops here to #3 on June 1, 1985.

2. Born In The U.S.A. – Bruce Springsteen

In two and a half months, we’ll be seeing Bruce and the E. Street band rock the ballpark for two shows! No doubt, they’ll do a few from this, the #2 rock album on June 1, 1985, Born In the U.S.A.!

1. No Jacket Required – Phil Collins

At the top of the charts this week is the third solo album by a guy who was already quite successful with his current band.  The album, a more up tempo and positive work than his previous two solo albums, soared to the top of the charts, where it stayed for weeks and sold more copies than any album he and his band did together! #1 on June 1, 1985 was No Jacket Required by Phil Collins.

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What a career this guy’s had – playing with the Jeff Beck Group in the late 60s, forming the revamped Faces with Rod Stewart, Kenny Jones and Ian McLagan, and later being asked to join The Rolling Stones. He’s even designed the covers of several albums, including his own Gimme Some Neck, and Eric Clapton’s Crossroads box set.

And did I mention what a nice guy he is, too?

He’s such a good player, yet I don’t think he’s gotten his just due. While some of these titles on which has appeared, played, and/or sung are certainly familiar to you, there may be one or two you haven’t heard before, thereby experiencing some new Ron Wood genius for your very own! Here are times Ronnie Wood killed it on record:

1. Kew – Billy Nicholls

Woodie added some nice acoustic work on this track by British singer Billy Nicholls. Pete Townshend and a few of Ronnie’s Faces buddies appear on Nicholls’ album, too.

2. Ding Dong Ding Dong – George Harrison

It’s Ron’s electric guitar work on the silly George Harrison track, (credited as “Ron Wood If You Let Him”).  Wood also co-wrote “Far East Man” with Harrison, which also appears on the album, but he does not play on it.

3. Ooh La La – Faces

The title track from the final Faces album feared a rare occurrence:  Ron Wood singing lead vocal.  After Rod Stewart couldn’t nail it in the studio, Woodie gave it a shot, he co-wrote it anyway, and it was perfect. This song has been used in a few commercials over the years.

4. Acid Queen – Tina Turner

Tina was amazing in the movie adaptation of Tommy, as the Acid Queen, and on the soundtrack album that’s Ron Wood playing the searing guitar.

5. It’s Only Rock And Roll – The Rolling Stones

Wood wasn’t even a member of the band yet, when this song was recorded at his house, known as “The Wick,” in late 1973.  He’d join two years later and, even though he co-wrote the song with Mick Jagger, he wasn’t credited on the album.  That’s his 12-string acoustic guitar work on the track.

6. Dead Giveaway – Ringo Starr

Ron co-produced two tracks on Ringo Starr’s 1981 album Stop And Smell The Roses, and co-wrote this one with Ringo.  He’s all over the song, too, playing guitar, bass, sax, keyboards, and singing backing vocals!

7. Beautiful Thing – Eric Clapton

Slowhand enlisted Ron’s assistance on four tracks on his No Reason to Cry album, this being one of them.  Lovely song!

8. Heart Of Mine – Bob Dylan

On Bob Dylan’s 1981 album Shot Of Love, you can hear Ron Wood’s fine guitar work on this track.

9. Jumping Jack Flash – Aretha Franklin

Recorded to accompany the Whoopie Goldberg movie (and Stones song)of the same name, that’s Ron Wood playing with Keith on this fantastic cover!

10. Growin’ Up – David Bowie

Yes, Bowie covered the Springsteen song during sessions for Diamond Dogs in late 1973, and Ron Wood played guitar alongside Bowie.  It remained unreleased for decades until it appeared on the 30th anniversary reissue of Diamond Dogs.

11. Barabajagal – Donovan

Donovan’s funkiest song was done with the help of the Jeff Beck Group, in which Ron Wood was a member.  Woodie plays some sweet guitar on this Donovan classic.

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10. 52nd Street – Billy Joel

No doubt Billy will do a song or two from this album, his first to top the charts, at the Linc next month. This week, 52nd Street is the #10 rock album on our countdown.

9. The Cars – The Cars

The Cars’ label Elektra wanted the band to hold off releasing their second album Candy-O because this album was still doing so well on the charts!  The album, their self titled debut, was still hanging in at #9 on May 25, 1979.

8. Blondes Have More Fun – Rod Stewart

Rod Stewart jumped right into the disco world with this huge hit of his, “Da Ya Think I’m Sexy,” which hit #1 and stayed there for four weeks.  It’s from the #8 rock album on this week’s countdown, Blondes Have More Fun.

7. Dire Straits – Dire Straits

The self-titled debut album by Dire Straits came out in their home country of Britain back in the summer of 1978, but it wasn’t until the success of this song in January, 1979, that the album came was released here.  It had an instant impact and on May 25, 1979, it was at #7, after peaking at #2.

6. Live At Budokan – Cheap Trick

It may not be the biggest selling live album, but it sure is one of the most exciting.  Cheap Trick, performing 2 sold out shows in front of 12, 000 screaming Japanese fans in April, 1978 made for a fantastic live album called Live At Budokan. On May 25, 1979, it was #6.

5. Parallel Lines – Blondie

Even though producer Mike Chapman called this one of the worst sessions he’d ever worked on, Blondie’s third album Parallel Lines was the one that made them international superstars.  On the countdown this week, it’s #5.

4. Van Halen II – Van Halen

Van Halen wasted no time recording their second album.  Just one week after they finished a world tour, they were back in the studio and banged out Van Halen II in a week!  It peaked here at #4 on May 25, 1979.

3. Minute By Minute – Doobie Brothers

4 Grammys and 3 million copies later, Minute By Minute by The Doobie Brothers stands as one of their finest works.  After spending five weeks at #1, it drops here to #3.

2. Desolation Angels – Bad Company

If you were curious, Bad Company did, indeed, take the name of their fifth album form the Jack Kerouac novel of the same name.  At #2 on May 25, 1979, it’s Desolation Angels.

1. Breakfast In America – Supertramp

At the top of the charts this week is the sixth studio album by a mostly British band, who wrote of their observations of U.S. life and culture, and turned it into the biggest album they ever had.  It would go on to won two Grammys, sell over 4 million copies, and spend six weeks at #1. On May 25, 1979, the #1 rock album was Breakfast In America by Supertramp.

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10. Bridge Of Sighs – Robin Trower

He left the fantastic lead vocals to a guy named James Dewar, but former Procol Harum member Robin Trower was the songwriting and guitar playing power behind the classic “Bridge Of Sighs,” the title track his biggest selling album, and the #10 rock album on the countdown. Incidentally, the album was recorded by longtime Beatles engineer Geoff Emerick.

9. Pretzel Logic – Steely Dan

On the cover, a photo of a New York street vendor, taken at the Miner’s Gate entrance of Central Park (at 79th and 5th Av).  Inside, the third album by Steely Dan, the last they’d make with their original touring band.  Pretzel Logic was #9 on May 18, 1974, and it leads off with this Dan classic.

8. On The Border – Eagles

For the third Eagles album, the band and their producer, Glyn Johns, didn’t musically see eye to eye.  Right in the middle of the sessions, they sacked him and replaced him with Bill Szymczyk.  Szymczyk would go on to work with the band through their most successful period.  On The Border is the #8 rock album on this week’s Thursday Top 10 Countdown.

7. BTO II – Bachman-Turner Overdrive

After their debut album sold modestly well, Bachman-Turner Overdrive, helmed by The Guess Who’s Randy Bachman, returned with a strong sophomore album called BTO II.  After peaking at #4, it drops a few here to #7 on May 18, 1974.

6. What Were Once Vices Are Now Habits – Doobie Brothers

The Doobie Brother’s John Hartman got the idea of the lettering for the cover of the band’s fourth album from the yearbook of his high school alma mater in Virginia! What Were Once Vices Are Now Habits was the #6 rock album in the country on May 18, 1974, and it contains the groups’ first #1 single.

5. Court And Spark – Joni Mitchell

Joni Mitchell did not put out an album in 1973, rather spending her time exploring new musical paths and writing songs.  The result was a stunning effort called Court And Spark, her sixth album and the #5 rock album on this week’s countdown.

4. Goodbye Yellow Brick Road – Elton John

On May 18, 1974, Elton John played a benefit concert at Royal Festival Hall to benefit children’s charities in the UK.  As that went on, his stellar album Goodbye Yellow Brick Road was still hanging at the upper end of the charts. It was #4 on May 18, 1974.

3. Chicago VII – Chicago

Chicago delved into some experimental sounds of their own, with the first few tracks on their seventh album being instrumental jazz-tinged songs.  The rest of the album was pure Chicago and, on its way to the #1 spot, Chicago VII  is #3 this week.

2. Band On The Run – Paul McCartney And Wings

If there is one argument for Wings to be in the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame, it’s this album alone, Band On The Run.  An amazing work, done under some pretty stressful conditions, it drops one to #2 on May 18, 1974 after peaking at #1.

1. Shinin’ On – Grand Funk

Topping the charts this week is the eighth studio album by a band from Flint, Michigan who have the distinction of being the only band to sell out Shea Stadium faster than the Beatles.  This album marked a return to working with producer Todd Rundgren, and for fans, the cover was 3-D and the package came with a pair of 3-D glasses!  #1 on May 18, 1984 was Shinin’ On by Grand Funk.

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Still, there are some fine albums sitting in a reel-to-reel tape box on a shelf somewhere that are begging to be heard.

Here are at least 5 examples I remembered instantly of Classic Rock albums that have never been released:

Household Objects – Pink Floyd

As a followup to their masterwork The Dark Side of The Moon, the band came upon the idea of creating songs with everyday things you’d find at your house: drills, pencils and rubber bands, egg slicers and aerosol cans, just to name a few. This could be done very quickly nowadays with the advent of computer technology but, back in the fall of 1973 when the band first embarked on this experiment, it was extremely difficult. Only two “songs” were completed, and one, “Wine Glasses” ended up on the Wish You Were Here Immersion Box set in 2011.

“Electric Nebraska” – Bruce Springsteen And The E Street Band

Bruce’s classic solo acoustic album Nebraska started out like any other Bruce album; he’d record demos privately and take them to the band to arrange and embellish.  However, upon hearing the demos for what would become Nebraska, Springsteen’s manager somehow convinced Bruce to release the cassette demos instead.  He did, but not before 17 full band recordings of these songs were done.  8 of them ended up on Born In The USA, including the title track, but 9 songs remain unreleased to this day.  Fans have begged Bruce to put the electric version out, and maybe one day he will.

Hot Hits/Cold Cuts – Paul McCartney

Being the prolific bloke he is, like Bruce Springsteen, Paul McCartney has written and recorded so many songs that dozens and dozens of them remain unreleased in the McCartney vaults. Several times over the course of his career he has compiled an album of these outtakes and, in 1978, almost put it out as Hot Hits And Cold Cuts, and each time he gets cold feet and withdraws it. Paul has said that the reason he’s held back is because if a song wasn’t good enough to make it onto an album, why is it good enough to put out now? I see his point, but C’MON PAUL! We’re DYING to add this stuff to our collections! Thankfully, Paul has released a few of the songs as b-sides, and over the years bootleggers have put out their own versions of Cold Cuts, so we will have to live with those until Paul changes his mind.

Rock Is Dead, Long Live Rock – The Who

In an attempt to follow up the hugely successful Who’s Next album, Pete Townshend came up with another concept idea. This time it would be based on the Who’s career, and it would be called Rock Is Dead, Long Live Rock. At least 10 songs were recorded until Townshend got bored with the idea and put two of the songs out as standalone singles in 1972 (“Join Together” and “The Relay”). The title track, “Long Live Rock,” ended up on the Who’s 1974 outtake album, Odds And Sods, and “Love Reign O’er Me” became the basis for their next concept album, Quadrophenia.

Return To Pepperland – Paul McCartney

Yes, Paul McCartney has two items on this list! Paul got together with legendary producer Phil Ramone (known for his work with Billy Joel) in 1985 and spent quite a lot of time working on album with him.  In all, over a dozen tracks were recorded with Ramone, but the album never came out.  Paul did once again put out some of the songs as b-sides, but the title track, written as a 20th Anniversary homage to The Beatles’ Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band, remains unreleased.

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1. All Along The Watchtower – Jimi Hendrix

It was allegedly at a party Mason invited his friend Jimi Hendrix to attend that Jimi first heard Dylan’s version. It wasn’t long before Hendrix laid it down for Electric Ladyland, with Mason playing an acoustic guitar part, and the Stones’ Brian Jones hitting the opening percussion.

2. Motel Shot – Delaney And Bonie

In 1970, Delaney And Bonnie released a standalone single of Mason’s, “Only You Know And I Know,” which I LOVE! A year later, Mason was one of the guest musicians on the then-married duo’s album Motel Shot. As you’ll soon read, Mason would work with their daughter later on.

3. Listen To What The Man Said – Wings

Dave told me the story of recording this song in New Orleans with Wings, in a 2012 conversation he and I had:

4. Thorofare Gap – Stephen Stills

Mason appears on three tracks on Stills’ 1978 Rock/Disco album, including a nice cover of “Midnight Rider.”

5. Roll It Over – Derek And The Dominos

Released as a standalone b-side to “Tell the Truth,” that’s Dave Mason assisting the band on guitar.

6. All Things Must Pass – George Harrison

Dave told me a funny story about his involvement on George Harrison’s landmark release:

7. Immigration Man – David Crosby and Graham Nash

There’s some real nice guitar work on this track from Crosby/Nash, courtesy of Dave Mason!

8. No Show Tonight – Phoebe Snow

Phoebe is one of my favorite vocalists of all time, and I was happy to know Mason plays on this funky track from Snow’s self-titled debut, the same album that features her gorgeous “Poetry Man.”

9. Only You Know Aad I Know (live) – Fleetwood Mac

I had to include this, just to say Fleetwood Mac covered this song! Of course, Mason was a member of the band at the time. and I personally think he brought back some of their bluesy sound while he was with them. Also, it was nice to see the Delaney and Bonnie lineage here as their daughter Bekka Bramlett was a Fleetwood Mac member at the time as well.

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Rex Michael Becerra was born in March, 2017 with an undiagnosed heart condition and had to undergo open heart surgery at just 7 days old. Sadly, though the operation was deemed a success, baby Rex passed away just a week later. Michael and his family have honored Rex’s memory every year, as well as the staff of Children’s Hospital Of Los Angeles who took care of Rex, by participating in Walk And Play L.A., a 3k walk and community event to benefit CHLA. So far, Anthony and his team, called Rex And The Heartbeaters, have raised over $250,000 for the cardio thoracic intensive care unit at CHLA, and they’re ready to add to that total this year.

Anthony says, “Even though Rex’s life was cut short his story will continue to be told and his legacy will live on. We will continue to support all the amazing doctors and nurses that work miracles every second of everyday at CHLA.”

The event takes place Saturday May 20, and this year Michael is hoping to hit his goal of $50,000 for Children’s Hospital Of Los Angeles. you can make a donation, as well as learn more about the Walk and the work CHLA does, by visiting Michael Anthony’s “Team Rex” page HERE.

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10. Takin’ It To The Streets – The Doobie Brothers

We kick things off with album #10, the sixth album by The Doobie Brothers, one which featured a new lead singer named Michael McDonald, who not only took over the vocals, but wrote, or co-wrote, 4 of the 9 songs on the album, including the title track, “Takin’ It To The Streets.”

9. Run With The Pack – Bad Company

It was another solid album for Bad Company, their third called Run With The Pack, which peaked at #5 but drops this week to #9 on May 4, 1976.  Closing out side one is the powerful title track.

8. The Dream Weaver – Gary Wright

Gary Wright first found success as the lone American in the British band Spooky Tooth, but his biggest bout with fame was as a solo artist with this album, The Dream Weaver, the #8 rock album on the countdown.

7. Destroyer – Kiss

Coming off of their breakthrough live album, Alive!, Kiss returned with Destroyer, a much more polished album, thanks to them working with the legendary Bob Ezrin as producer. It peaked here at #7 on May 4, 1976, and gave them their biggest hit song, written and sung by Peter Criss.

6. Fleetwood Mac – Fleetwood Mac

It was after sitting down for lunch and chatting at a Mexican restaurant in L.A. that Mick Fleetwood asked Lindsey Buckingham and Stevie Nicks to join Fleetwood Mac.  They said “yes,” of course, and just three months later, their self-titled Fleetwood Mac album was finished, and on May 4, 1976, it was the #4 rock album.

5. Frampton Comes Alive! – Peter Frampton

Frampton Comes Alive was such a huge album, it was the biggest selling album of 1976, and the 14th biggest selling album of 1977!  On this week’s countdown, it’s #5.

4. A Night At The Opera – Queen

Queen’s first of two albums to be named after Marx Brothers movies was their international breakthrough, and reportedly the most expensive album ever made up to that point.  A Night At The Opera peaked here at #4 on May 4, 1976.

3. Their Greatest Hits 1971-75 – Eagles

We don’t normally feature greatest hits collections on the countdown but, then again, not every best of compilation released becomes the biggest selling album of all time!  At last count, The Eagles’ Their Greatest Hits 1971-75 has sold over 38 million copies and, on May 4, 1976, it was #3.

2. At The Speed Of Sound – Wings

One of the best parts about this album for Paul McCartney fans was that he toured across the U.S. to support it! Wings At The Speed Of Sound was another chart topper for Macca and company, and drops one to #2 this week.

1. Presence – Led Zeppelin

Our #1 rock album this week is the sixth studio album by one of the biggest bands in all of Classic Rock.  Originally, the band was slated to hit the road, but their singer was injured in a car accident, and instead, the band made plans to record a new album.  Since the singer had been injured, he had to cut all of his vocals while sitting in a wheelchair. #1 on May 4, 1976 was Presence by Led Zeppelin.

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Andre
It’s Andre Gardner on 102.9 M G K. I always say one of my favorite things about doing what I do is getting to chat with some of my heroes and this is definitely one of them. I can’t believe we have Ian Hunter joining as a special guest. Ian, thank you so much for checking in today.

Ian
You’re very welcome.

Andre
And I love this new album! Ian’s got a brand new album out. In fact, it’s out now, wherever you get your music, called Defiance part one and it features, I mean, a veritable who’s who of rock superstars. You’re not gonna believe it. I mean, Ringo is on there, Todd Rundgren, Slash, and Joe Elliott. Not to mention two dearly departed rock stars, Jeff Beck and Taylor Hawkins, and, Ian, I guess my first question to you is I saw another interview with you where you just said this was just kind of came together as a fluke, the fact that all these amazing players are on this record.

Ian
Well, yeah, you know, because I, I came off tour with the Ram Band and, and then COVID sort of took over, you know, so everybody’s stuck at home. And my band didn’t have our home studios. And so my manager Mike Kobayashi said, well, I know people that do have home studios and another mate of mine, Ross Halfin, who is a photographer, he said I know people who do. So I was writing songs in the basement with Andy York who does my production with me, and we were just sending them out to these people who had their own studios. And yeah, I think Slash was the first one and then Billy Gibbons was the second one and it developed from there.

Andre
I do want to talk about some of the great songs on this album. I think Pavlov’s Dog is my absolute favorite I have to say right now, after listening several times, but I do want to talk about some of some of the early days and not the stuff that everybody’s always talking about. You know, David Bowie’s involvement with all the young dudes and stuff. I wanna talk about a guy named Guy Stevens, your early guy who a lot of people in their forties and fifties know his work with the Clash. And what a crazy guy he was. Was he that wild back in the day? I mean, I heard some pretty wild stories of the Clash days.

Ian
Oh, yeah, he, he started out, he was a DJ at the Scene Club in London and he would get imports from America when nobody else was getting them. And Chris Blackwell heard about him and signed him to Island Records as an A and R guy. And it kind of went from there, you know, he was, he would be in your face going, ‘you’re better than Dylan, you’re better than the Stones, you’re better than The Beatles,’ you know, and you couldn’t play, you weren’t allowed to play and he would just wind you up and wind you up and wind you up and then he would say play and we did, he did the same with The Clash, you know? Like Mick Jones is ringing me going, “what the..” but that was Guy’s way of doing it. He was tone deaf. I mean, he couldn’t, but he had an amazing taste in music, you know, he invented all those crazy titles on, you know, Brain Capers and stuff like that. And he, he actually gave Procol Harum their name.

Andre
Is that right?

Ian
Yeah, he had a cat called Procol Harum and so then he gave him that.

Andre
I’ll be darned, and he’s known as giving Mott The Hoople your name too, right?

Ian
Yeah, he was in jail. He was doing six months. Yeah. And he read the book in jail by Willard Manus, who just passed actually, unfortunately. Yeah, Willard Manus, Mott The Hoople, that was the book.

Andre
I’m hearing stories and, you know, when you see you hear stuff on the internet, Ian, you don’t know if it’s true or not. But I heard that when you were wrapping up the Brain Capers album, he tried to set Island studios on fire. Is that true?

Ian
Oh, he did set it on fire.

Andre
Really??

Ian
The studio was on fire, yeah.

Andre
He tried to set it ablaze?

Ian
Yeah, and there was no leader in Mott The Hoople until something like that happened, and then it was me! I became the leader because I had to go and tell Blackwell, you know, the studio was on fire! And I told, I rang Chris, he lived in the top of Basing Street, where the studios were, like I said, ‘you know, that the studio is on fire.’ And he said, ‘was it really necessary?’ (laughs) ‘I guess, I don’t know.’

Andre
It was a new studio. It hadn’t been around long either.

Ian
No, I know, but it wasn’t the room. It wasn’t, you know, where all the gear was. So it was, it was a pile of chairs.

Andre
I can’t believe I’m talking to Ian Hunter. This is such a joy and a privilege to have you on. And I got to tell you – listen to this new album because it totally rocks. It’s called Defiance Part One. And as I mentioned, he just came together with all these wonderful musicians who accompanied him on the album, whether it was Todd or Billy Gibbons, I mentioned Jeff Beck and Taylor Hawkins are on the record and that’s very special too.

Ian
Yeah, yeah, and also very sad, you know? But iut was John, I know Johnny Depp and, and he was working with Jeff, and Johnny said ‘I’m up for doing a couple and Jeff’s up for doing a couple.’ So there’s Defiance Part one and Defiance Part Two and they did a track on each album.

Andre
And what incredible tracks. They are, I do want to get to those tracks in a minute because they are so good. I wanted to also mention how cool it was – somebody just mentioned to me a few minutes ago as I was saying I was going to get to chat with you – that they saw you live and you did a great version of You Really Got Me. And I thought, yeah, that’s because Mott did that instrumental version on their debut album as the first track. I guess the vocal version came out later at one point, but that was an interesting choice to start with an instrumental of that.

Ian
And especially when you’re opening for The Kinks on the road!

Andre
Right!

Ian
(Laughs) Yeah, we sat in the dressing room and we were trying to figure out who was going to go into their dressing room and tell Ray, you know, look, half our show is your song and he was, he was OK with it, you know, so we went on and did it for about half an hour before they went on and did it properly, you know?

Andre
Fantastic version. Now everybody knows the story how Bowie came in and produced All The Young Dudes, gave you that song and really revitalized your career. But I’m more interested now in learning about what it was about “Suffragette City” that you didn’t like that you didn’t feel was right for Mott The Hoople, because I could totally hear you singing a lead on that.

Ian
It wasn’t that. It was just the song itself. The song was ok. We had good songs. This was a good song. Um, but the, the beat was, the BBC was totally closed to us because we put a couple of singles out already and they hadn’t happened. And when you do that, you know, then the labels and BBC just don’t want to play singles from you anymore. So we knew it had to be something special. And Suffragette was good, but it wasn’t special. And then he gave, he sat down and played Dudes and it was like, yeah, we’ll, we’ll go with that one.

Andre
And the rest is history. Ian Hunter’s new album is called Defiance Part One.
Another question I’ve always wanted to know is, Ian, when was the, do you remember the first time you heard Ships By Barry Manilow?

Ian
Well, he rang me actually, before I heard it he’d gone into Clive Davis’s office and Clive would do that. He would play songs in the background hoping that, you know, like, er, these people would pick up on them cos they weren’t really songwriters. I mean, Barry Manilow as an arranger, basically, and he picked up on it because I think his dad had just passed, and when I, heard it he modulates a lot and it, it’s just a different neck of the woods completely. You know, it’s just great, you know? It’s fine.

Andre
This is Ian Hunter I cannot believe I am speaking to, and he has got a brand new album out. It’s called Defiance Part One with all these amazing guests appearing on it. The first single that they put out was called Bed of Roses, which was featuring Ringo Starr. You’re a former Ringo All Starr band member. And that song sounds great!

Ian
Oh, his thing is, ‘you know, if I like it, I’ll do it. If I don’t like it, I won’t do it,’ you know? Fortunately he liked it, and we sent it because it was a demo, it was done in my basement, and he came back four days later and it’s perfect.

Andre
Oh, it’s lovely, a wonderful, wonderful track. Now, a lot of people have asked me when they found out I had the privilege of speaking with you now that your album is out, do you plan to hit the road to support this album?

Ian
Well, we’re kind of busy with the second one Part Two, you know? So, I don’t know when I’ll actually get around to doing that, you know, I have tinnitus as well, which doesn’t help. But, I’m sure we’ll get round to it at some point, yeah, but it’ll be more like acoustic and, you know, Q&A, stuff like that.

Andre
I love Pavlov’s Dog working with the DeLeo Brothers. Oh, my God, those guys are so great. And Eric Kretz.

Ian
Dean rang me this morning. They were just leaving in a couple of weeks. Yeah, Dean, they’re really nice. All of them. How I met him was I did the Vipers thing because Johnny Depp asked me to get up with the Viper and Robert was playing bass at the time with them and it struck me how nice the guy was. He was so polite because I didn’t know nothing about Stone Temple, you know? And then like, I said to my manager, ‘let’s see if they want to do one.’ And then Robert got up and then said, Dean wanted to do it and then Dean said, wanted to do it. And now, and now we’re mates (laughs).

Andre
Oh, great. What a great groove that is too. I always thought Robert, too. if you haven’t had a chance to dive into the S T P catalog, is one of the most underrated bass players out there, he’s such an incredibly inventive player.

Ian
Quality, quality. There’s a track on Defiance Part Two, you know, the power on Highly Intermingle, is brilliant.

Andre
Oh, can’t wait to hear that. What a joy to have you on the show here, Ian. This is Ian Hunter. He’s my special guest on Classic Rock 102.9 M G K and it’s such a joy to be able to speak with you, Ian. And best of luck on your brand new album called Defiance Part One. It is out now wherever you get your music and we’ll anxiously await part two! I wish you all the best, sir.

Ian
Alright, good one, thank you!

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In a bold move that cost them some royalty money early on, their first album was a 2-LP set. Although there were just 12 songs on that double album, four songs were longer than seven minutes in duration, with the closing track, “Liberation,” clocking in at over 14 minutes.

While the move for a double album was surely risky, it allowed the band to showcase their different musical styles, not to mention shine the spotlight on that otherworldly guitar work by the late Terry Kath.

Due to budget limitations, the band had to pretty much record and mix the whole album in a week. And they did, even though their experience in a recording studio was limited.

Thanks to airplay on FM radio stations, the album, and Chicago, got noticed, and they haven’t looked back since.

I love this album, and it was the one that introduced me to the band way back when. Here are 5 great reasons to give CTA, as it’s sometimes known, a listen. Not to take anything away from the other 7 songs, they are all excellent in their own individual way, but if you want to test drive this fine work first, I’d suggest starting with these.

Introduction

What a way to begin your debut album: a welcome message from the band wrapped in a song. Pure genius, and what a song this is.

Beginnings

This one got heavy airplay in Philadelphia, and was a hit around the country as well. To me, this is the signature song on the album, and has one of the coolest endings I’ve ever heard.

Questions 67 & 68

Peter Cetera didn’t contribute a song to a Chicago album until their second album, but his vocal on this Robert Lamm track is nothing short of stellar.

Listen

My vote for the most underrated song on the album. It shoulda been a hit single, I tell you!

I’m A Man

I’m not usually a huge fan of most remakes, but this cover of the Spencer Davis Group song is one of the best covers I’ve ever heard.  While the signature Chicago horns do not appear on this track, they horn guys chip in on percussion, and Tery Kath’s guitar work defies description.

The post 5 Great Reasons To Put On Chicago’s Debut Album appeared first on 102.9 WMGK.

10. 90125 – Yes

Our #10 rock album is by a band that, coincidentally, played a show at The Spectrum just three days after the date of today’s countdown. I know because I was there – what a show! And it was in the round, too! It’s Yes, with 90125, and here’s the opening track.

9. Uh-Huh – John Mellencamp

John Mellencamp followed up the huge success of American Fool with Uh-Huh, his third album in just 18 months!  It’s #9 on the countdown this week.

8. Synchronicity – The Police

In their short time together, The Police released just five studio albums, every one of them platinum.  Their only #1, though, was their fifth and final album called Synchronicity.  On April 27, 1984 it was #8.

7. An Innocent Man – Billy Joel

Billy Joel’s homage to his musical influences, An Innocent Man, was another big hit for him, and even got him two Grammy nominations!  On this week’s Thursday Top 10 Countdown, it’s the #7 rock album and here’s his tribute to Motown with “Tell Her About It.”

6. Learning To Crawl – Pretenders

After losing two members to drug abuse, Chrissie Hynde assembled a new band and returned with the biggest album of her career with the Pretenders, Learning To Crawl.  On April 27, 1984, the album was #6.

5. Heartbeat City – The Cars

It was on the set of the Timothy Hutton-directed music video for this song that The Cars’ Ric Ocasek met 19 year old model Paulina Porizkova.  They’d be married five years later.  The song was “Drive,” and it’s from the #5 rock album on the countdown, Heartbeat City.

4. Love At First Sting – Scorpions

Since forming in 1965 in Hanover, Germany, the Scorpions have released 19 studio albums.  This was their biggest, Love At First Sting, which peaked here at #4 on April 27, 1984.

3. Sports – Huey Lewis And The News

We are coming up on eight million copies of this monster album sold in the U.S. – Sports by Huey Lewis And The News, which is #3 on MGK’s Thursday Top 10 Countdown.

2. 1984 – Van Halen

As Rolling Stone so perfectly put it, Van Halen found a larger audience with 1984 after “Eddie discovered the synthesizer.” It made the already huge band a worldwide success and, though it didn’t peak at the top spot, hanging here at #2, it has sold more than 10 million copies!

1. Footloose – Original Motion Picture Soundtrack

At the top of the charts this week is the soundtrack to one of the biggest grossing films of 1984 – a film that starred one of our Philly acting heroes.  Not only was the movie a blockbuster, but this soundtrack, which spawned two #1 singles, was so big it was the album that knocked Michael Jackson’s Thriller out of the #1 position after an incredible 37 week run.  #1 on April 27, 1984 was the Original Motion Picture Soundtrack to Footloose.

The post MGK’s Top 10 Rock Albums From April 27, 1984 appeared first on 102.9 WMGK.

10. A Nod Is As Good As A Wink..To A Blind Horse – Faces

Kicking off the countdown this week is the third album by Faces, and their biggest seller here in the U.S. After peaking at #6, A Nod Is As Good As A Wink..To A Blind Horse drops here to #10.

9. Electric Warrior – T. Rex

The second album by Tyrannosaurus Rex, now shortened to just “T. Rex,” was not only their biggest album but it was the biggest selling album of 1971 in the UK, beating out Zeppelin, The Who, even Bowie!  Electric Warrior was the #9 rock album here in Philly on April 20, 1972.

8. Madman Across The Water – Elton John

Elton John’s fourth album peaked here at #8, but it would be his last to do so for a while as his next six releases all hit #1!  From Madman Across The Water, here’s “Tiny Dancer” on 102.9 MGK’s Thursday Top 10 Countdown.

7. Led Zeppelin (IV) – Led Zeppelin

It’s been called IV, Zoso, Four Symbols and Runes but, technically, it’s just Led Zeppelin, their second self-titled album and the biggest seller in their catalogue.  It was the #7 rock album on April 20, 1972.

6. Smokin’ – Humble Pie

The first Humble Pie album to be released after Peter Frampton left the band was their most successful.  Self produced by lead singer Steve Marriott, Smokin’ peaked here at #6, and featured this rock and roll anthem, “30 Days In The Hole.”

5. American Pie – Don McLean

“American Pie” might have catapulted the album of the same name to the top of the charts, but there was another hit single from the album, the beautiful “Vincent,” written about the artist Vincent Van Gogh. The American Pie album was #5 on April 20, 1972.

4. Eat A Peach – Allman Brothers Band

In addition to dedicating this album to his fallen brother, Gregg Allman also resurrected a song that Duane had written in 1967, and included it in his honor.  It’s the beautiful “Melissa,” and it’s off of Eat A Peach, the #4 rock album on this week’s Thursday Top 10 Countdown.

3. Fragile – Yes

The fourth album by Yes had three firsts.  It was the first Yes album to feature Rick Wakeman on keyboards, the first to have a cover designed by Roger Dean, and it was Yes’s first album to crack the top 10.  Fragile peaked at #3 on April 20, 1972.

2. Harvest – Neil Young

Neil Young was in Nashville to appear on the Johnny Cash Show, when he decided to make a country-flavored album with some Nashville musicians.  It resulted in his biggest solo album, Harvest, the #2 rock album on the countdown.

1. America – America

At the top of the chart this week is the debut album by three guys who met in London, while their parents were all stationed in the Air Force.  The album initially stalled on the charts, until the band’s label had them record another song which they’d add to the album.  That song ended up topping the charts, and also catapulted the album to #1.  The #1 rock album on April 20, 1972 was the debut album by America.

The post MGK’s Top 10 Rock Albums From April 20, 1972 appeared first on 102.9 WMGK.

10. Nervous Night – The Hooters

At last, our hometown heroes, The Hooters, hit it big! The band’s major label debut was also their biggest seller, still in the top 10 almost a year after it was released. This week, Nervous Night is #10.

9. Riptide – Robert Palmer

Robert Palmer achieved his biggest success with this, his eighth studio album called Riptide. Much of that success came from the iconic video to this song, “Addicted To Love.” Riptide was #9 on April 13, 1986.

8. No Jacket Required – Phil Collins

The third solo album by Phil Collins cemented him as both a group and solo rock star.  In fact, No Jacket Required has sold more than any album by Genesis, going “diamond” for over 10 million copies sold.  On this week’s countdown, the album is #8.

7. 5150 – Van Halen

It was a very different sound for Van Halen – the Van Hagar era began with the band’s sixth album, 5150. On its way to becoming their first #1 album, it was #7 on April 13, 1986.

6. Knee Deep In The Hoopla – Starship

Speaking of a band with a different sound, Starship was the latest name change for the legendary Bay Area band, the result of a lawsuit prohibiting any member of the Jefferson Starship or Airplane from using “Jefferson” in their name.  That is, unless the band contained the original members.  The debut album by this version of the group peaked here at #6, but gave the band their first #1 single.

5. Listen Like Thieves – INXS

When INXS were finishing their sixth album, their producer Chris Thomas, who’d worked on albums by the Beatles, Sex Pistols and Pretenders, told them there wasn’t a hit single on there, and they needed to write and record one in the next few days, when the studio time ended, talk about pressure, but they delivered with their biggest chart hit ever, “What You Need.” It’s off of the #5 rock album on the countdown, Listen Like Thieves.

4. Brothers In Arms – Dire Straits

What album holds the distinction of being the first one to sell a million copies in the CD format?  It’s this one, Brothers In Arms by Dire Straits, the #4 rock album on April 13, 1986, almost a year after it came out.

3. The Ultimate Sin – Ozzy Osbourne

Right up to the last minute, Ozzy Osbourne’s fourth album was going to be called Killer Of Giants.  Just as the record was about to be pressed, he changed it to The Ultimate Sin.  It’s the #3 rock album this week on MGK’s Thursday Top 10 Countdown.

2. Scarecrow – John Mellencamp

John Mellencamp has said the album on which he felt he really started to come into his own as a songwriter was this one, his eighth album called Scarecrow.  It peaked here at #2 on April 13, 1986.

1. Heart – Heart

At the top of the chart is the eighth studio album by this Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame band, and their first on a new label.  In addition, they took a more mainstream approach to their songs, and it yielded big results, giving them their biggest selling and highest charting album of the Wilson sisters’ careers.  #1 on April 13, 1986 was Heart by Heart.

The post MGK’s Top 10 Rock Albums From April 13, 1986 appeared first on 102.9 WMGK.

Click HERE to nominate a local business leader!

Dennis Pullin, President And CEO Of Virtua Health Interview

Adré Gardner spoke with Dennis Pullin, President And CEO of Virtua Health. They talk about staffing, supply chains, burnout and good working environments.

They also talk about Virtua investments in innovated programs including access to health care and food supplies.  Virtua has  a pediatric mobile service and Pride Primary Care.

https://wmgk.com/uploads/2023/05/C-SUITE-DENNIS-PULLIN-VIRTUA-INTERVIEW-FULL.mp3

Jim Perkins – President of ACME & Executive Vice President of Albertsons

André Gardner spoke with Jim Perkins, President of ACME Markets and EVP Of Albertson’s, who started out as a customer service clerk at Albertson’s. He has worked for ACME all over America. He went back to college when he was 40 and got a degree at 43. He talks about his growth and ACME’s growth. They also discuss charities including Bringing Hope Home, Veterans, baseball and the ACME Twins.

Jeff Kay and Larry Stiteler of East Coast Roofing, Siding & Windows

Jeff Kay President and Larry Stiteler Founder and Owner of East Coast Roofing, Siding & Windows joined André Gardner to discuss their company. They discuss economic challenges, customers needing their services. They pride themselves on being very helpful with financing. They also do a lot of giving back by providing a free roofs to some people, Turkey Drives and Food Drives and Breast Cancer Funding.

Valerie Camillo – President of the Wells Fargo Center and Head of Business for Flyers Operations

MGK and Comcast Business are highlighting CEO’s and other industry leaders that serve the community. This week we spotlight Valerie Camillo, the President of the Wells Fargo Center and Head of Business for Flyers Operations.

André Gardner speaks with Valerie Camillo about her sports background, economic environment and their work in the community.

Lindsey Mutschler – Chief Financial Officer at Concord Pet Food & Supplies

MGK and Comcast Business are highlighting CEO’s and other industry leaders that serve the community.  This week we are happy to spotlight Lindsay Mutschler, the Chief Financial Officer at Concord Pet Food & Supplies.

Andre talks with Lindsay Mutschler about the history of Concord Pet Food & Supplies, how today’s economic climate has impacted the company, the ideal customer and how they give back to the community.

Lance Bachman – Chief Executive Officer of Shock I.T. Support

Andre talks with Bachmann about the history of Shock I.T. Support, how today’s economic climate has impacted the business, the ideal customer and how they give back to the community.

John Glomb – President & CEO of Philadelphia Insurance Companies

Andre talks with Glomb about his background with Philadelphia Insurance Companies, how today’s economic climate has impacted the business, the ideal customer and how they give back to the community.

Gary Volpe- Founder of Volpe Enterprises

André Gardner speaks with Gary Volpe about his humble beginnings, economic environment and Volpe’s work in the community.

Danielle Gallagher- CEO of Eagle One Federal Credit Union

MGK and Comcast Business are highlighting CEO’s and other industry leaders that serve the community. This week we spotlight Danielle Gallagher, the CEO of Eagle One Federal Credit Union.

David Neff- President of Neff

André Gardner spoke with David Neff, the President of Neff, who shared how his start with a Telecommunications company landed him in his current position. Neff also talks about the growth of company and the amazing charity work they continue to do.

Shari Kruzinski- Executive Vice President and Chief Consumer Banking Officer at WSFS Bank

André Gardner speaks with Kruzinski about her experience at WSFS, how the economical clement has impacted the company and the positive ways the company has made to the community.

Angelo Valletta- President and CEO of Ben Franklin Technology Partners

André Gardner speaks with Valletta about his work experience, how the economical clement has impacted the company and how Ben Franklin Technology Partners gives back to the community.

Joe Gaglioti- Cofounder of Joseph Anthony Retreat Spa and Salon

André Gardner speaks with Gaglioti about his background, how the pandemic has impacted the company and how Joseph Anthony gives back to the community.

Toni Pergolin- President and Chief Executive Officer of Bancroft

André Gardner speaks with Pergolin about her background and how Bancroft supports over 2,000 children and adults with autism, intellectual disabilities, and brain injuries.

Abhinav Rastogi- President & CEO of Temple University Hospital and Executive Vice President of Temple University Health System

André Gardner speaks with Rastogi about his background and the 500+ community benefit programs running at Temple University Hospital.

Christopher Francis- CEO of the Livengrin Foundation

André Gardner speaks with Francis about his rise to CEO, how the pandemic has effected the largest addiction treatment center in Delaware Valley, and how they give back to the community.

Youseff Tannous- Market President & Eastern PA Retail Leader of KeyBank

André Gardner speaks with Tannous about his history with KeyBank and how the employees come together to help the community.

Dr. Robert Uzzo- President and CEO of Fox Chase Cancer Center

André Gardner speaks with Dr. Uzzo about Fox Chase Cancer Center’s affiliation with Temple University and how it has helped broaden their reach to serve those in need. Dr. Uzzo also shares what he is most proud of working for Fox Chase Cancer Center.

Michael Rizol- Director of the New Jersey Division of Highway Traffic Safety

André Gardner speaks with Rizol about the big traffic safety concerns and things to keep in mind before getting behind the wheel.

The Sprandios- Consultants in Medical Oncology and Hematology (CMOH)

André Gardner speaks with John Sprandio, John Sprandio Jr., and Brian Sprandio about how CMOH became a true family practice, their goals for advance care planning, and their community outreach.

Ed DeAngelis- Chief Executive Officer of EDA Contractors

This week we spotlight Ed DeAngelis, the Humble Chief Executive Officer of EDA Contractors.

Dan White- Firm Founder of Dan White and Associates

This week we spotlight Dan White, the Firm Founder of Dan White and Associates.

Trae Lamborne- President of Egress Solutions

This week we spotlight Trae Lamborne, President of Egress Solutions.

Rich Jensen- CEO of Agora Cyber Charter School

This week we spotlight Rich Jensen CEO of Agora Cyber Charter School.

Sean Herberling- CEO of Marion Street Capital

This week we spotlight Sean Herberling CEO of Marion Street Capital.

The post Past Good News From The C-Suite Interviews appeared first on 102.9 WMGK.

10. Styx II – Styx

This album originally came out in July, 1973, but it wasn’t until a Chicago DJ heard a song from it on a jukebox, played it on the air, and it took off, before the album followed suit. Styx II from Styx is the #10 rock album, kicking off the countdown, and here is the song that DJ heard on the jukebox.

9. War Child – Jethro Tull

Sometime after Thick As A Brick, Jethro Tull recorded an album’s worth of material in Paris, and never released it. A few songs did appear on this, their seventh album and the #9 rock album on April 6, 1975, War Child.

8. On The Border – Eagles

In a rare occurrence, a band fired their producer midway through sessions for an album.  The Eagles did it, while recording On The Border, replacing Glyn Johns with Bill Szymczyk. The album is #8 on this week’s Thursday Top 10 Countdown.  Here’s the first track Bill worked on with the band:

7. Eldorado – Electric Light Orchestra

With a cover designed by none other than Sharon Osbourne, the fourth album from E.L.O. was the one that got them noticed, at least here in the U.S.  Eldorado peaked here at #7 on April 6, 1975.

6. Young Americans – David Bowie

A source of pride in this town, as much of the album was recorded here, Young Americans, Bowie’s ode to Philly soul, surprisingly peaked here at #6 on April 6, 1975.

5. Heart Like A Wheel – Linda Ronstadt

The fifth solo album by Linda Ronstadt was her breakthrough, peaking at #1 and giving her four Grammy nominations and one win!  At #5 on the countdown this week, Heart Like A Wheel.

4. Rock And Roll – John Lennon

Released as part of a lawsuit filed by Morris Levy, and because Levy had bootlegged a copy of the album and tried releasing it though mail order, Rock And Roll by John Lennon was the official release of songs that influenced Lennon.  It even had Phil Spector as producer!  The album was #4 on April 6, 1975.

3. What Were Once Vices Are Now Habits – The Doobie Brothers

In a case similar to “Lady” by Styx, which we featured earlier on the countdown, this next album by the Doobie Brothers was actually going DOWN the charts until a radio DJ started playing “Black Water.”  Both the song, and the album, What Were Once Vices Are Now Habits, took off and, on April 6, 1975, the album was at #3.

2. Blood On The Tracks – Bob Dylan

Though he denied the songs on this album were a reflection of his personal life, Bob Dylan’s masterwork, Blood On The Tracks, contains lyrics focusing on a relationship in trouble.  After hitting #1, the album drops one to #2.

1. Physical Graffiti – Led Zeppelin

Topping the chart this week is the sixth album by one of the biggest classic rock bands of all time.  It was an album that was not without its drama – the band’s keyboardist almost quit the group to join the Winchester Cathedral as its organist, the album was delayed because the cover was a bit too complicated to produce, and since the group didn’t have enough material for the double album they wanted to make, they went back to their vaults and grabbed outtakes from previous sessions!  The result was a varied selection of acoustic, blues, and hard rock classics.  The album debut at #3, hit #1 the next week, and stayed there for six weeks.  #1 on April 6, 1975 was Physical Graffiti by Led Zeppelin.

The post MGK’s Top 10 Rock Albums From April 6, 1975 appeared first on 102.9 WMGK.

Sharon, who reached out to me a few weeks ago, is with Community Integrated Services, a local non-profit that empowers people with disabilities through opportunities at employment. Sharon told me all about Izzy, and her interest in radio, and I was all too happy to have them come by the studios for a visit.

In addition to being a sweet person, Izzy knows her music! As soon as she arrived, and got settled in the MGK studio, she would identify a song title literally a half second after it came out of the speakers. VERY impressive! Izzy is also a serious business card collector and, as luck would have it, our Program Director Bill Weston was here and was just coming out of his office when our guests arrived. Upon finding out about Izzy’s collecting of cards, he was happy to give her one!

Once in the studio, we all chatted for a bit, and I told her all about the equipment we used here at MGK, as well as a little about my background in radio. Of course, anytime some visits the MGK studios, I have to put them to work! It wasn’t long before Izzy got to start a song live on the air (it was “Have You Ever Seen The Rain” by Creedence Clearwater Revival) and even introduce one of her favorite songs on MGK, Eric Clapton’s “Wonderful Tonight.”

In another nice coincidence, our own Tony Harris stopped in the studio, and he and Izzy knew each other! It’s a small world, indeed.

Izzy and Sharon were also kind enough to record a podcast with me, to chat all about the work CIS does, and to tell of her experience hanging out with MGK for an afternoon.

I’m not sure who had a better time – Izzy or me. What a joy it was to meet her!

Hear our podcast, and learn all about Izzy and the great work Community Integrated Services does here:

The post Meet My Friend Izzy Who Visited The 102.9 MGK Studios appeared first on 102.9 WMGK.

10. Love Stinks – J. Geils Band

The J. Geils Band scored their second top 10 with their ninth album, Love Stinks, one of the funniest titles, and songs, I’ve ever heard. This week it’s #10.

9. In The Heat Of The Night – Pat Benatar

The debut album by Pat Benatar made her an instant star, and she hasn’t looked back since.  At #9 on March 30, 1980, In The Heat Of The Night.

8. Departure – Journey

It only took a week for Journey to record their sixth album, Departure, with most of the tracks recorded live in the studio.  This was one of them from the album, which was #8 on March 30, 1980.

7. The Long Run – Eagles

It would be the last studio album by the Eagles released for 25 years, but it’s a wonderful work.  After peaking at #1, The Long Run drops to #7 on this week’s Thursday Top 10 Countdown.

6. Permanent Waves – Rush

Rush wanted to record their seventh studio album at the legendary Trident Studios in London, but the studio time and costs were too high.  They decided on a residential studio in Canada’s Laurentian Mountains called “Le Studio,” and it became their recording home for the next four albums.  Permanent Waves is our #6 rock album this week.

5. Glass Houses – Billy Joel

We’ll see this guy with Stevie Nicks at Lincoln Financial Field on June 16.  I’m sure he’ll do a track or two from this album, the #5 rock album on the countdown, Billy Joel’s Glass Houses.

4. Bebe Le Strange – Heart

Heart continued their string of successful albums with Bebe Le Strange, their fifth album, and the #4 rock album on March 30, 1980.

3. Damn The Torpedoes – Tom Petty And The Heartbreakers

When Tom Petty’s recording contract was transferred to MCA Records after they acquired ABC, lawsuits ensued and things got quite sticky, until Petty signed a new deal with Backstreet Records.  He was then able to release what would become his breakthrough album, Damn The Torpedoes, the #3 rock album on our countdown.

2. Against The Wind – Bob Seger And The Silver Bullet Band

Bob Seger’s album Against The Wind is notable for two reasons. First, it was his only #1 album, amazingly.  And it was also the album that finally knocked this week’s #1 album out of the top spot!  Against The Wind is held steady on March 30, 1980 at #2.

1. The Wall – Pink Floyd

At the top of the charts this week is the 11th studio album by a legendary British band, and one of the biggest selling albums of all time. It was a concept work, revolving around a character who felt isolated from the world, separated by an imaginary…wall. Not only did this album hit #1, it stayed there for 15 weeks! #1 on March 30, 1980 was the Wall by Pink Floyd.

The post MGK’s Top Rock Albums From March 30, 1980 appeared first on 102.9 WMGK.

I didn’t have enough allowance money to buy the whole thing, so I’d sneak a listen to some of the tracks whenever we’d hit a South Jersey diner that had a jukebox. There, I could hear four songs from the album on a jukebox-only EP: “The Song Remains The Same,” “The Crunge,” “Dancing Days,” and “D’yer Mak’er.” If I was lucky, there’d also be the single of “Over The Hills And Far Away” on the jukebox for me to enjoy..all for 50c!

I’m sure MGK’s Tony Harris will be doing something special for Houses Of The Holy tonight at 8 on “Get The Led Out,” so, in advance of that, here is my ranking of all eight songs on this wonderful album. Happy Anniversary!

8. The Crunge

Let’s face it, there’s not a bad song on this album. The fact that this song, the band’s funkiest, is 8 on my list only speaks to the quality of the all the tracks.

7. The Song Remains The Same

Originally conceived as an instrumental piece, the opening track to the album also became the title of their full length feature film some four years later.

6. No Quarter

John Paul Jones shines on this spooky track, with positively killer drum licks from Bonzo.

5. The Ocean

Written as a tribute to their fans, the “ocean” of people who’d come to their live shows, the fact they kept Bonzo’s countdown in at the beginning was the icing on the cake.

4. Dancing Days

When I think if warm weather songs, this one always pops into my mind.  It has such a good vibe, with some amazing Page licks, and Plant’s vocal is spot on!

3. D’yer Mak’er

When this first came out, this was my favorite track on the album.  I still love it – with all its silliness.

2. Over The Hills And far Away

Outside of the incredible melody, I just love that fact that the song starts off acoustic, transitions to a hard rock jam, then glides back into a soft acoustic ending. Plants vocals are double-tracked in a few spots, and I thought that sounded so cool!

1. The Rain Song

One of the most beautiful songs in the Led Zeppelin catalog, “The Rain Song” sends me to such a peaceful state whenever I listen to it, and I love playing this in a car during a downpour.  This gets my vote for the best song on the album.

The post Led Zeppelin’s Houses Of The Holy At 50: I Rank The Songs appeared first on 102.9 WMGK.

Bruce bought the car, with a 396 big block V-8 and 4-speed manual transmission, in 1981, and kept it until 1987, when he gave it to his longtime recording engineer, Toby Scott, for Christmas.  In addition to getting the car if you happen to bid, there’s even a letter of provenance written by Bruce himself!

The car came out of the factory colored LeMans Blue, but Bruce changed it to Midnight Black while he owned it.  The car was refurbished just a few years ago, including the color returned to its original LeMans Blue.  One quirky feature of the refurbishment was the installation of what the auction notes says is a “period radio,” which is likely an AM or AM/FM receiver, and it hasn’t been hooked up yet!  For the final nice touch, it’s got those light blue and gold New Jersey license plates.

The car is being auctioned through Mecum Auctions, a Wisconsin-based auction house that specializes in automobiles of all types.

The auction starts in May, and you can check out everything you need to know about this amazing piece of rock and roll history, including Bruce’s letter of authenticity, and the complete description of that sweet vehicle here.

The post You Can Bid On Bruce Springsteen’s 1969 Chevrolet Chevelle Convertible appeared first on 102.9 WMGK.

My first Bruce Springsteen show was at the Spectrum on September 18, 1984, the last of a six night, sold out run in South Philadelphia, and I was truly blown away from start to finish. It wasn’t just the song selection (he kicked off the encore with “Santa Claus Is Coming To Town”– in September!), or the energy and excitement of the E Street Band that amazed me. It was Bruce, and his complete and total command of the 18,000+ crowd. Never before had I seen a performer captivate an audience like that. I finally got it. Since then I’ve seen Bruce two more times, and each time was a veritable party.

So, as we anxiously await news as to whether Thursday’s show is a “go” or not, here are my top 5 Bruce Springsteen songs. I find that a lot of Bruce fans don’t agree with my list. See what you think:

5. Spirit In The Night

I confess that I first heard Manfred Mann’s cover of this song (as with “Blinded By The Light”), but it can’t match the groove of the Bruce original. This song contains, in my opinion, the prettiest chord Bruce has ever played, a rare major 7th. It’s right at 3:47 with the line, “Janey said it was TIME to go…” Kills me every time.

4. Pink Cadillac

It was our first taste of what would be the Born In The USA album.  Released as the b-side to “Dancing In the Dark,” one month before the album came out, “Pink Cadillac” was Bruce’s homage to the sound of the 50s and 60s, right down to the slapback echo on his vocal, and the fact the song was mixed in mono!  It ended up being replaced by “I’m Going Down” on the Born In The USA, and got its first digital release in 1998 with Bruce’s Tracks outtake collection.,

3. State Trooper

Without a doubt, Nebraska is my favorite Bruce Springsteen album.  The starkness of the production, the intensity of the song lyrics and their characters, and the haunting sound of a man alone in a room with a guitar made this a riveting listen for me. Of all the songs on the album, “State Trooper” ranks as my favorite. It starts out so very quietly, and ends with Bruce yelping and howling, totally distorting on the recording, and that’s what give the songs its charm. Every time I drive up to New York City, I always give a nod to those oil tanks along the NJ Turnpike, just south of Newark airport, thinking of the line that says, “‘neath the refineries glow, out where the great black rivers flow.”

2. Streets Of Philadelphia

In looking at my list, it’s pretty clear I prefer Bruce’s songs that don’t have a whole lot of production built in.  From the powerfully devastating movie, “Philadelphia,” and featuring just Bruce and background vocalist Tommy Sims, this song matched perfectly with the film’s script, and earned Bruce an Oscar for Best Original Song, as well as four Grammy awards. When I was program director of 92-3 K-Rock in New York, I got an advance tape of the track and we were one of the first stations in the country to play it. To this day, I can’t listen to it without wiping away a tear or two.

1. The Fever (original mix)

I remember hearting this for the first time on Ed Sciaky’s radio show on WMMR. It was literally one of those “stop everything you’re doing and listen”-type of songs. It totally captivated me and, only later did I realize it was 7 1/2 minutes long! It flew by. Again, the production was sparse, Danny Federici’s piano playing was slick, and The Big Man’s sax and backing vocal work was so incredibly tasty. The story goes that Bruce’s old manager (the one he sued) slipped cassette copies to a few DJs without anyone’s permission and, thus, a legend was born. It finally appeared on the Tracks collection in 1998, but I didn’t like that mix as much as the rough mix on that cassette (too much organ and reverb on the remix!). Unfortunately, I can’t find that original mix online, so the Tracks remix will have to do.

The post Andre Gardner’s Top 5 Favorite Bruce Springsteen Songs appeared first on 102.9 WMGK.

Andre talks with Glomb about his background with Philadelphia Insurance Companies, how today’s economic climate has impacted the business, the ideal customer and how they give back to the community.

Listen to the full interview here:

We are proud to recognize John Glomb from Philadelphia Insurance Companies as a MGK/Comcast Good News From The C-Suite winner!

The post Good News From The C-Suite With John Glomb appeared first on 102.9 WMGK.

10. Wheels Are Turnin’ – REO Speedwagon

REO Speedwagon struck gold once again with their tenth album, Wheels Are Turnin’ (no G!) It’s the #10 rock album on this week’s countdown and it features one of the band’s biggest songs:

9. Tropico – Pat Benatar

This has to be memorable album for Pat Benatar and Neil Giraldo.  While filming a video for one of the album’s tracks, they found out they were expecting their first child!  The album was Tropico and it was #9 on February 23, 1985.

8. Sports – Huey Lewis And the News

Huey Lewis came up with the idea for this song when he was being driven to his lawyer’s office!  He had all the lyrics, but needed the right music to fit. His lead guitarist, Chris Hayes came up with the music, and the classic opening riff on “I Want A New Drug.”  It’s taken from Sports, our #8 rock album on the Thursday Top 10- Countdown.

7. Beverly Hills Cop – Original Motion Picture Soundtrack

We include this soundtrack album on our rock album countdown list, because it contains a GREAT song by Glenn Frey.  It’s “:The Heat Is On,” and it’s from the #7 album on February 23, 1985, the Original Motion Picture Soundtrack to “Beverly Hills Cop.”

6. Volume One – The Honeydrippers

It’s fitting this would appear on the countdown, on the day Robert Plant is featured on our MGK Top 20 Greatest Singers today.  It’s the one and only album by his side project with Jimmy Page and Jeff Beck, The Honeydrippers, called Volume One.  It peaked at #5, and drops one to #6 on the countdown this week.

5. Building The Perfect Beast – Don Henley

Don Henley’s second solo album remains his biggest seller as a solo artist.  Building The Perfect Beast peaked here at #5 on February 23, 1985.

4. Centerfield – John Fogerty

With spring training underway, it’s nice to have this album in the countdown, John Fogerty’s third solo album, Centerfield.  It’s the #4 rock album on MGK’s Thursday Top 10 Countdown.

3. Reckless – Bryan Adams

In all the years of releases to come out of Canada, it took Bryan Adams’ Reckless to be the first album to sell a million copies up there.  It did pretty well here, too, selling over 5 million copies!  On February 23, 1985, it was #3.

2. Agent Provocateur – Foreigner

Mick Jones of Foreigner said he has no idea where this song idea came from.  The only thing he DOES know is he wrote it at three o’clock in the morning, and it was one of Foreigner’s biggest songs.  “I Want To Know What Love Is” is from the #2 rock album on the countdown, Agent Provocateur.

1. Born In The U.S.A. – Bruce Springsteen

Topping the charts this week is the landmark release by one of America’s greatest singer/songwriters.  The album, his seventh, was three years in the making, and not only hit #1 but spawned seven top 10 singles and has gone on to sell over 17 million copies in the U.S. alone!  #1 on February 23, 1985 was Born In the USA by Bruce Springsteen.

The post MGK’s Top 10 Rock Albums From February 23, 1985 appeared first on 102.9 WMGK.

While this is fantastic news, it’s not the first time The Beatles and Rolling Stones intermingled on record. Below are a few highlights:

I Wanna Be Your Man – The Rolling Stones

The Stones had released their debut single in June, 1963, a cover of Chuck Berry’s “Come On,” and it did relatively well on the charts.   The story goes Mick ran into John and Paul and asked them to give the Stones a song for their second single, and they responded with “I Wanna Be Your Man,” which cracked the UK top 15.  Of course, The Beatles would release their version a week later on their album, With The Beatles.

All You Need Is Love – The Beatles

You can see Mick and Keith on the video for the song, recorded at Olympic Studios and broadcast live from Abbey Road Studios around the world on the BBC.

Baby You’re A Rich Man – The Beatles

On the original master tape box of this classic Beatles track is written, “The Beatles…+ Mick Jagger?” Jagger ostensibly did attend the session at Olympic Studios, adding background vocals at the very end of the song that would appear as the b-side of the “All You Need Is Love” single.

We Love You – The Rolling Stones

Just one month after the release of The Beatles’ “Baby You’re A Rich Man,” the Stones put out a standalone single for their fans, grateful for the support they received amidst Mick and Keith’s drug possession allegations.  The song was “We Love You,” and John Lennon and Paul McCartney join in on the chorus vocals.

You Know My Name (Look Up The Number) – The Beatles

This quirky song was released as the b-side to “Let It Be” in 1970, though it was recorded in 1967.  Apparently, Paul had invited Ther Stones’ Brian Jones to the session, assuming he’d bring a guitar to play.  He showed up “very nervous,” according to Paul,. and brought a saxophone with him instead. That’s his “ropey” solo you hear at the end of this song.

Yer Blues – The Dirty Mac

This one-off supergroup, made up of John Lennon, Keith Richards, Eric Clapton and Mitch Mitchell, formed for the Rolling Stones’ pseudo concert film, “The Rock And Roll Circus.”  They did one of John’s great White Album tracks for the film.

Too Many Cooks (Spoil the Soup) – Mick Jagger

Back in 1973, John Lennon produced a version of the Holland-Dozier-Holland song “Too Many Cooks (Spoil The Soup)” for Mick Jagger.  It featured a killer lineup of musicians, including Harry Nilsson, Jack Bruce, Al Kooper, Jesse Ed Davis and Jim Keltner, and remained unreleased for 34 years!

The post 7 Times The Beatles And Rolling Stones Worked Together appeared first on 102.9 WMGK.

10. Transformer – Lou Reed

Lou Reed released his first two albums in the span of seven months, and his second was the biggest of his career. At #10 on the countdown, Transformer.

9. Trilogy – Emerson, Lake And Palmer

The fourth album by former members of King Crimson, The Nice and Atomic Rooster, known as Emerson, Lake And Palmer, saw the band get their first top 5, with Trilogy, a difficult album to make by all accounts, but a brilliant work.  On February 16, 1973 it was #9.

8. Honky Chateau – Elton John

Elton John titled his 5th album after the French mansion where they made it – The Château d’Herouville, just outside Paris, and also known as Honky Chateau. It was his first of 6 number one albums in the row in the U.S. and, after spending some quality time at the top spot, it’s #8 on the countdown this week.

7. Never A Dull Moment – Rod Stewart

Rod Stewart didn’t mess with success.  He employed many of the same musicians – including his Faces bandmates – on the followup to his monster Every Picture Tells A Story album with Never A Dull Moment, the #7 rock album on our Thursday Top 10 Countdown.

6. Space Oddity – David Bowie

Thanks to a renewed interest in the title track, RCA Records re-released David Bowie’s 1969 album Space Oddity, to great success, and it wasn’t long before everyone knew the story of Major Tom.  The album was #6 on February 16, 1973.

5. Can’t Buy A Thrill – Steely Dan

The lead singer on this song was Steely Dan’s original front man, David Palmer.  He left after the second album, as Donald Fagen became the band’s lead singer, but that’s Palmer on “Dirty Work” – an incredible Steely Dan song from their debut album Can’t Buy A Thrill.  It’s our #5 rock album this week.

4. Who Do We Think We Are – Deep Purple

On first pressings of this next album, the opening track is spelled “Woman From Tokayo” – just like Ian Gillen sings it on the song.  It was corrected on subsequent pressings of Who Do We Think We Are by Deep Purple, #4 on February 16, 1973.

3. Homecoming – America

With the release of their second album, America began the quirky habit of choosing one word titles for their next six albums, all beginning with the letter H. It all started with Homecoming, sitting at #3 on this week’s Thursday Top 10 Countdown.

2. Seventh Sojourn – The Moody Blues

The Moody Blues were working like fiends, releasing albums and touring to support them.  After their seventh album and tour, they took a five year hiatus from touring and recording.  The seventh album was called Seventh Sojourn, and it drops to #2 on February 16, 1973 after hitting #1.

1. No Secrets – Carly Simon

At the top of the chart this week is the third album by a legendary singer/songwriter, who took stories of her life and wrote incredible songs about them.  She hired a young producer to help her see her vision to vinyl, and she recruited some of the top session players and singers in the business as her stellar backing band, including a former Beatle and a member of the Rolling Stones.  #1 on February 16, 1973 was No Secrets by Carly Simon.

The post MGK’s Top 10 Rock Albums From February 16, 1973 appeared first on 102.9 WMGK.

It was also in the fall of that year, from September 25 to the last show in Philly, December 3, that Elton John and his band hit the road for a 42-date U.S. tour.  Just four days before the final tour dates in Philadelphia, John Lennon would join Elton and the band onstage at Madison Square Garden and perform live for the last time.

I’d been an Elton John fan from the very beginning, ever since first seeing him on TV performing “Your Song” in very early 1971.  I wish I could remember which show that was, but both my Mom and I became instant fans, and bought every single and album that would come out.

Needless to say, I was more than a little pumped when I found out Elton was coming to Philadelphia for two nights at The Spectrum.  As soon as I found out when tickets went on sale ($5.50, $6.50 and $7.50!) I talked my friend and fellow Elton fan Wendy into coming with me to get us tickets for the show.  Of course, this was long before the fiasco that has become the online ticket buying game.  If you wanted a shot at good tickets, or tickets at all if the act was hot enough, you had to go to The Spectrum box office, or a Ticketron location, and wait in line.

My Dad drove us to what I seem to remember was a Sears – I know it was in the Moorestown Mall – and we got in the back of the rather long line, just as tickets went on sale. We would stay in line for SIX hours before it was finally our turn, and all that were left were the $5.50 tickets. We bought four tickets, for Wendy, my brother Alan, his girlfriend and me, and we were in for the December 2nd show!! As we were leaving the Ticketron office, we heard a voice yelling “WE’RE SORRY, BUT THE SHOW HAS SOLD OUT.” We were one of the last to get tickets. It didn’t even cross my mind where these seats would be in the venue – I was just glad to get them.

Sure enough, we get to the Spectrum and walk our way up, and up, and up, to our seats. They were in the next to last row, behind the stage, at the very top of the Spectrum. Elton was so huge that no sections were curtained off, every seat was filled.

It turns out that it didn’t matter one bit. Kiki Dee opened the show with a killer set, punctuated by her hit at the time, “I’ve Got The Music In Me.” After a fairly long intermission, out went the lights and on came Elton!! Early on in the setlist, he busted out two songs from Caribou, “You’re So Static” and “Grimsby,” before launching into a night of greatest hits. It was the classic Elton band performing during that tour, too: Davey Johnstone on guitar, Dee Murray on bass, Nigel Olsson on drums, and the very animated Ray Cooper on percussion!

Even though we were behind the stage, Elton made it a point to ham it up for us in the back many times during the show. I also remember him changing the lyrics to “Goodbye Yellow Brick Road,” going, “..and it took you a couple of Tequila Sunrises to set you on your feet again.” The things that stick in your mind.

Rumors were flying that John Lennon might show up again, like he had done in New York City just days prior, but he didn’t, of course. It didn’t matter to me, though, I had an incredible night watching one of my favorite rock stars perform live! Even though the seats weren’t the greatest, it still ranks as one of the best live shows I ever had the chance to see.

The post My Night Seeing Elton John At The Spectrum In 1974 appeared first on 102.9 WMGK.

That may be true, but the albums Wings released, in the period of Paul’s career from 1971-1979, stand out as some of his finest work, and it was the chemistry, both musical and personal, that helped keep the band’s sound fresh and always entertaining.

There IS precedent here. In 2012 the Hall inducted The Comets (Bill Haley’s band), The Crickets (who backed Buddy Holly) and The Miracles (Smokey’s group), so Wings would certainly fit along nicely next to those incredible bands.

To further prove my point, here are 12 (13) songs released during Paul’s Wings period that should cement this band into Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame history:

Some People Never Know (From “Wild Life”)

Without a doubt, the standout track on this virtually ‘instant’ album – Wings recorded this, their debut album, in just over a week – and it’s a breath of fresh air. There’s also a hint of what’s to come with African rhythms at the end of the song predating the band’s Band On the Run project in Lagos two years later.

Hi Hi Hi (1972 single)

Banned by the BBC (please!), this is Wings at their rocking, tightest best.  Featuring an impossibly catchy chorus, the song was a hit, despite the BBC ban.

Big Barn Bed (From “Red Rose Speedway”)

We first got a taste of this song when the opening line appeared at the end of the “Ram On” Reprise. It was the opening track on Wings’ second album and it’s SO good!

My Love (from “Red Rose Speedway”)

There are three amazing things about this song. For one, it’s about as gorgeous as a song can get. Secondly, the song was recorded totally live in Abbey Road Studios, even the strings and horns! And finally, Wings guitarist Henry McCullough changed the solo at the last moment after coming up with an idea and, to his credit, Paul told him to go for it. The result is what you hear on the song.

Live And Let Die (single)

Are you kidding?  This is the BEST James Bond theme of them all, hands down, in my opinion.  It has all the elements of a perfect theme – power, excitement, even a little reggae, and when Paul performs this live, the place explodes..literally!

Band On The Run (from “Band On the Run”)

Just as the group were to leave for Lagos to record their third album, two of their band members quit, leaving just Paul, Linda and Denny Laine to finish the album.  Through monsoons, a mugging, and Paul passing out, they pulled it off, and Band On The Run is regarded by many to be Paul’s finest solo work.

Nineteen Hundred And Eighty Five (From “Band On The Run”)

To me, this is the album’s “A Day In The Life,” perfect as the last song, it reprises the opening track, and it’s got palpable excitement throughout.

Junior’s Farm (single)

The lone 1974 Wings recorded output was this tight rocker, recorded in Nashville.  The band did it live in the studio, and the track smokes from start to finish.  Maybe my favorite Wings song of them all.

Rock Show (From “Venus And Mars”)

“Rock Show” captures the perfect feeling of getting ready to see a rock concert.  Name checking Jimmy Page, Amsterdam’s Concertgebouw and Philly in the lyrics don’t hurt, either!

Mull Of Kintyre/Girls School (single)

This one single is the perfect way to describe Wings.  On one side is a touching, anthemic ode to Paul’s Scottish farmland, and the other is a nasty hard rock jam of epic proportion.

London Town (From “London Town”)

Paul has such a knack for creating a mood in a song and, with this title track from Wings’ 1978 album, I can feel the misty rain falling on my raincoat as the song plays.  Linda’s harmonies at the very end are so gorgeous!

Spin It On (From “Back To The Egg”)

For my money, “Back To The Egg” is the most underrated Wings album.  It was also their last.  There’s everything on there, including this absolutely manic track that showcases Paul’s and Laurence Juber’s blistering guitar work.  C’mon, Cleveland, get these guys in where they belong!!

The post 12 Reasons Wings Belong In The Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame appeared first on 102.9 WMGK.

10. Stranger In Town – Bob Seger And The Silver Bullet Band

Bob’s followup to his breakthrough Night Moves album was another excellent release, once again combining the talents of the Silver Bullet Band and the Muscle Shoals Rhythm Section. Stranger In Town was the #10 rock album on February 9, 1979.

9. Jazz – Queen

Queen had to record their seventh album outside of England, due to a high tax bill they had just received.  At the suggestion of David Bowie, they made Jazz at Mountain Studios in the Montreaux, Switzerland Casino complex, location of the legendary “Smoke On The Water” by Deep Purple.  Queen loved the studio so much, they bought it the next year, and this wonderful album is #9 on the countdown.

8. Dog And Butterfly – Heart

One side was softer in tempo, the butterfly, and the other rocked, the dog, and that was Heart’s Dog And Butterfly, the #8 rock album on February 9, 1979.

7. Pieces Of Eight – Styx

With the addition of Tommy Shaw on guitar, Styx had a harder edge to them, as evidenced by the rocking “Renegade,” off of the #7 rock album on our countdown, Pieces Of Eight.

6. Minute By Minute – The Doobie Brothers

On its way to selling 3 million copies and giving The Doobie Brothers three Grammy awards, Minute By Minute, their eighth album, was the #6 rock album on February 9, 1979.  Here’s the excellent title track.

5. Toto – Toto

Currently on the road with Journey, Toto emerged from the shadows of session work and became a successful band in their own right.  Their debut is the #5 rock album on our countdown.

4. Backless – Eric Clapton

The followup to Eric Clapton’s biggest seller, Slowhand, was Backless, similar in sound and band lineup, and another hit for the legendary guitarist.  On the 9th of February, 1979, it was the #4 rock album.

3. Double Vision – Foreigner

How can you not love an album who’s title track was inspired by a killer hockey check into the boards?  Foreigner’s sophomore album, Double Vision, is the #3 rock album on the countdown, and here’s the opening single from it.

2. 52nd Street – Billy Joel

Billy will no doubt be performing a song or two off of this, his first of four #1 albums called 52nd Street, when he and Stevie Nicks come to town in June.  On February 9, 1979 it was #2, and it opens with “Big Shot.”

1. Blondes Have More Fun – Rod Stewart

Topping the chart this week is the ninth album by a British rock legend, and his first foray into…disco! The album, and first single, instantly went platinum, and notched another #1 for the man they called “the Mod.” #1 on February 9, 1979 was Blondes Have More Fun by Rod Stewart.

The post MGK’s Top Rock Albums From February 9, 1979 appeared first on 102.9 WMGK.

Denny was kind enough to call in and chat about the show, and about his time with Wings and The Moody Blues. Listen to the conversation here:

A transcript (edited for clarity) is also included below.

Andre Gardner: What a joy it is to be chatting with one of my favorite guests ever, friend of the station, friend of the show, Denny Laine, who is checking in. Denny, thanks for calling, man.

Denny Laine: Hey, how are you?

Andre: Doing just great, man, and we’re sure looking forward to seeing you in just a few days at City Winery, “Denny Laine Of The Moody Blues: Songs And Stories”, February 11th. The doors will open right about 6:00, get a good seat, 7 30, the show starts. Now I was interested, first off Denny, that it says, “of the Moody Blues,” not “of the Moody Blues and Wings.”

Denny: Well, what do you mean?

Andre: I mean, you’re not gonna just tell Moody Blues stories, are you?

Denny: No, no, no, no, is that what they say? No, it’s gonna be the whole bit, yeah.

Andre: You’ve got a lot of stories to share, man. Jeez, you were there!

Denny: It’s just gonna really be stories about how the songs were written and that’s really what it is. So that way I can get in, you know, more songs than stories, let’s put it that way. But, yeah, it’s gonna be fun, though. I did it last month and it went down really well.

Andre: And I gotta tell you, I love watching the video of you thanking everyone for accepting your Rock and Roll Hall of Fame award for the Moody Blues. I saw that you thanked Peter Asher, Cousin Brucie, Stevie Van Zandt. Can we get those guys together to get Wings in the Hall of Fame?

Denny: (laughs) I don’t know. You’d better talk to Paul about that. That’s his baby.

Andre: Well, that seems like a glaring oversight as far as I’m concerned, you and that band certainly belong in there, but we’ve talked about your career before, and I don’t know that I’ve mentioned this in the past, but after you left The Moodies, you formed the Electric String Band. And as far as I’m concerned that that was E.L.O. before E L.O., don’t you think?

Denny: Well, a lot of people say that. And Bev Bevan who started E.L.O. with Jeff, he was in my first band or our band was called Denny Laine the Diplomats and he was the drummer. So there you go. There’s a connection somewhere. I don’t know where but there is.

Andre: I do want to delve into some of your Wings time. I’m not gonna talk about the specific songs because I know you want to do that during the concerts, but I do want to ask you, have you thought about in the past, to you, what the most pleasurable Wings album was to make?

Denny: Well, it’s a little bit like babies. You don’t want to pick one out from the others. I mean, everyone has a story and it’s usually a pretty funny story as well as the hard work, you know, a lot of work went into all that, but it wasn’t, it didn’t feel like hard work. I mean, obviously, the one that stands out under pressure, we went and made Band On The Run because the two guys in the band decided not to come at the end of the day, so that obviously stands out, you know? But they all have stories and the way they were put together and, yeah, and it was fun, you know, it was just kind of one after the other. It was just a 24 hour job, man, and that’s what you do, man, is you get on with it, you know?

Andre: I always felt like, and correct me if I’m wrong, but I always felt like you were kind of like, I don’t want to say the arbiter of the band, but you were never involved in all the stuff going on, like, with Jimmy McCulloch and Geoff Britton and all that stuff, you’re like, always steady as she goes, kind of the dude who hung in there rolled with the punches and just got it done.

Denny: Yeah but I mean that’s that’s being in a band isn’t it? You know you just kind of go along with whatever comes your way and you get on with it., It’s experience that is but you also have to be that kind of person. You know, you’re ready for anything that comes along and it’s like I say, you know somebody backs out, somebody doesn’t want to go again, you just change and move in another direction. And that’s it, really. I watched all that going on with those different incarnations and so you know you just don’t let it get to you, you just say okay well, next!

Andre: I did have a question about your trip to Lagos and Band On The Run. Obviously the story was that Paul and Linda got jumped one night and they stole all their cassettes. And then he had to remember the songs? He never gave you copies of those cassettes beforehand? So you didn’t have a copy of them, did you?

Denny: I think he’s the only one who had him. But again, you know what the truth is, I don’t even remember the rehearsal. I know we must have done them because he wouldn’t have had the tapes otherwise. But I know that we’re meant to do it as a band for sure. I mean, that’s why when we got there, and we didn’t have anybody, Paul got on the drums and I got on the guitar and we just ran through the songs one after the other to familiarize ourselves with the arrangements and kind of change them a little bit. (It’s a) different approach when you’re doing it that way. It’s more like a home recording.

Andre: Sure. And, my God, there’s so many things going on down there. Were you there the night that Fela Ransome Kuti came in and with a bunch of guys and wanted to, you know, see if you were nicking his music?

Denny: I wasn’t there for that, to be honest. I don’t remember it anyway, it might have been there, but I don’t know. I don’t remember that conversation going on. I know about it, but he wasn’t that worried about it. I don’t know what he was trying to do. Maybe get in on the act. We weren’t stealing his music. We just liked African music. And you know Fela was one of those guys who wanted to be involved with everything that’s going on. He was a big friend of Ginger Baker’s of course, and we’ve been working with Ginger, he had his studio in that town too. So it was all that, but it was really all good fun. And Fela was great. It was just a good laugh and we went out and hung out with him and his Africa ‘70 people and went to clubs and it was great, you know. It was good fun, but maybe he was trying to get in on the act.

Andre: I remember Paul describing that night just as being magical, watching Fela and the group on stage, just amazing music. God, I can’t imagine … Denny Laine is my special guest, and what a joy it is to have him on. He’s coming to town at City Winery on February 11th, and its billed as “Denny Laine Of The Moody Blues” with songs and stories, but he’ll be telling all the stories whether it’s Moody Blues, Denny Laine and The Diplomats, Wings, Balls, he’s got stories about him all and he’ll be sharing them at City Winery. 6:00 is when the doors open, 7:30 is when the show begins, Denny, I want to fast forward a couple of years to London Town, where you were looking for another exotic location. You decided to be aboard a yacht, the Fair Carol down in the Virgin Islands. Was anybody seasick there having trouble adjusting to the water?

Denny: (Laughs) I don’t think so, but you know, I mean it was that fun. We actually did record going from one bay to another bay and it was like choppy weather, you know, the boat was bouncing around all over the place, and with the studio boat we’re on there and we’re trying to play and we’ve been thrown from one side of the boat to the other. I thought it was ridiculous. And I said, we can’t do this because I’m a boating person, Paul goes, “no, come on you’re all right.” We had a lot of fun doing that album. It was a lot of fun.

Andre: Can you shed any light on whether there are plans to get deluxe editions of London Town and Back To The Egg, because we’re just dying to get some some stuff from there, Denny.

Denny: You know what, I have no idea. But knowing Paul, there will be something, you know, he keeps it all a bit close to his chest, all that info. But knowing him, he’s probably got all that in mind to do, you know?

Andre: Sure. I did see on social media, he sent you a lovely copy of that beautiful singles box, That’s gorgeous.

Denny: Yeah, yeah, that’s great. Well, you know, I’ve been talking to him on and off. He talked me into getting my Covid jabs and all that stuff.

Andre: (laughs) Oh, did he?

Denny: Yeah. Well, you had to work and I mean, the thing is, you know, he was off the road for whatever, you know, all that time. And it was that we weren’t used to being like that, we were used to being on the road all the time and now being stuck in one place and not doing it. Actually, what it does for us all is it makes us sit down and write and, you know, prepare ourselves and do something else other than being on the road, but being on the road is what it’s all about really.

Andre: We can’t wait to see you Denny, for sure. Denny Laine, is my special guest and you know, he was co-writing one of the biggest selling songs in the history of Britain, Mull Of Kintyre, that gorgeous song, but you also co-wrote another gorgeous song that hits close to my heart and I’m sure your heart too, and that’s Rainclouds, the beautiful song with Paddy Maloney of the Chieftains.

Denny: Really. I know. I mean, I love those guys, you know, with all those people, this is the great thing about writing songs and turning them into, you know, productions with different people, they’re all people we liked. I mean, we love the Chieftains, that kind of music, and to get them involved and stuff like that, it’s just fantastic, you know? You meet so many great people along the way, I mean, well we’ll going to it later maybe, but you know, the last thing we did was with Carl Perkins and Stevie Wonder and Ringo and all those people, you know, but it was great fun doing that stuff, so if you’ve written something and the same with Mull Of Kintyre, to bring in the Campbelltown pipe band, I mean that was amazing experience and, you know what I’m saying, you don’t know you’re gonna do it until you do it, and then all of a sudden you learn something else and that’s another load of people, you know? It’s great.

Andre: Oh, this is so great chatting with you Denny, you know, talking your ear off about Wings, but I do have one more Moody Blues question I want to ask. Was that a budgetary reason why the first album was recorded in mono? Or was that they just wanted the power of mono on there?

Denny: I think that’s all there was in those days, isn’t it?

Andre: ’64-’65, I mean, EMI had three track, but I just, I just found it interesting, they didn’t at least do a twin track and and kept it in mono, although Go Now, of course is so powerful in mono that you can’t hear it any other way, it’s so beautiful.

Denny: That’s what I’m saying, you know, I still like mono myself because you can hear everything all in one place, you know, when you got one instrument on one side and another one on the other side. I mean, I don’t know about that, but the thing is, they’ve all gone back to mono now anyway, full circle!

Andre: Denny, you’re a great guy, it’s so great to have you on here and chatting all about your stories and songs, you’ve got many more to share and you’re gonna do it at City Winery on February 11. Doors open at 6:00, show starts at 7:30. This man was there, he wrote some of the most beautiful songs of our day, and we cannot wait to see you do them live, my friend. Thank you for taking the time to call in and chat today.

Denny: All right, thank you, Andre. Take care and I’ll see you then!

——————————————————————————————

Denny Laine performs at City Winery, 990 Filbert Street, Philadelphia, Saturday February 11, 2023. 6:00/doors, 7:30/show. Tickets are $20-$35 and can be purchased here.

The post Denny Laine Of Wings And The Moody Blues Chats With Andre appeared first on 102.9 WMGK.

10. So – Peter Gabriel

Peter Gabriel became an international superstar with the release of this, his fourth solo album. Featuring top notch musicians and a world music influence, So has sold over 5 million copies in the U.S. alone. After peaking at #2, it’s at #10 this week.

9. Can’t Hold Back – Eddie Money

Although this can be called Eddie Money’s “comeback” album, it also marked a comeback for a legendary singer..Ronnie Spector.  She joined Eddie on “Take Me Home Tonight,” taken from the #9 rock album on February 2, 1987, Can’t Hold Back.

8. The Bridge – Billy Joel

Billy Joel said he can recall reading bad reviews of his tenth studio album, The Bridge, and “agreeing with them.”  His head, and heart, weren’t in it, after being rushed to record it by his record company, but the album was still popular with fans, peaking at 7, and dropping here this week to #8.

7. Georgia Satellites – Georgia Satellites

Every Monday night in the early 80s at Hedges, a bar in the Buckhead section of Atlanta, you could catch The Satellites, later becoming Georgia Satellites.  Their self-titled major label debut remains their biggest, peaking at #5 before slipping to #7 on February 2, 1987.

6. Invisible Touch – Genesis

Refreshed after a three year break from recording, Genesis returned with an album that would become the biggest seller in their entire catalog, Invisible Touch.  It was #6 on February 2, 1987.

5. Fore! – Huey Lewis And The News

Following up their monstrously successful album Sports, Huey Lewis And The News hit platinum once again with Fore!, their fourth album and the #5 rock album on our Thursday Top 10 Countdown.  This video got heavy play on MTV back in the day.

4. Live 1975-1985 – Bruce Springsteen And The E Street Band

It was the closest you could get to the atmosphere of a live Bruce show, without actually being there.  After years of fans’ begging, Bruce put out a multi disc set of live performances culled over a decade of recordings, and released Live 1975-1985.  It hit #1, and became the second biggest selling live album in the U.S. (behind Frampton Comes Alive). It was #4 on February 2, 1987.

3. The Way It Is – Bruce Hornsby And The Range

The debut album by Bruce Hornsby And the Range was  breath of fresh air when it played on the radio, and set Hornsby up for a successful career.  Later, he’d tour with The Grateful Dead!  The Way It Is is #3 on this week’s countdown, and here is the title track.

2. Third Stage – Boston

The long awaited, and I do mean long awaited, third album by Boston was 7 years in the making and, while not as successful as their first two albums, Third Stage did sell 4 million copies and peaked at #1, before dropping to #2 on February 2, 1987.

1. Slippery When Wet – Bon Jovi

Topping the chart this week is the third album by one of New Jersey’s favorite bands.  This album not only hit the top spot, it stayed there for 8 weeks, spent 38 weeks in the top 5, and was the biggest selling album of 1987!  #1 on February 2, 1987 was Slippery When Wet by Bon Jovi!

The post MGK Top 10 Rock Albums From February 2, 1987 appeared first on 102.9 WMGK.

Eight of the fourteen artists nominated are first-time nominees, four are women, and one has been eligible for 20 years! This afternoon I had a chance to chat with the CEO of The Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame And Museum, Greg Harris. Not only did I learn a lot about the nominees, the Hall and the awards process, but I also found out Greg is from the Delaware Valley, went to Temple University and co-founded one of Philadelphia’s coolest indie record stores!

We had a great conversation about this year’s festivities, and you can hear it right here:

Vote now through April 28th for your favorites at www.rockhall.com. Once again, the nominees for the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame Class Of 2023 are:

Kate Bush
Sheryl Crow
Missy Elliott
Iron Maiden
Joy Division/New Order
Cyndi Lauper
George Michael
Willie Nelson
Rage Against the Machine
Soundgarden
The Spinners
A Tribe Called Quest
The White Stripes
Warren Zevon

The post Andre Chats New Nominees With Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame CEO appeared first on 102.9 WMGK.

Blavat passed away last Friday 1/20 following complications from myasthenia gravis at the age of 82. Immediately friends, listeners, colleagues and celebrities flooded social media with pictures and stories of The Geator.

Now, thanks to the efforts of The Cathedral at 18th and The Parkway, those who can’t be there for the service will be able to stream it live on the Cathedral’s website this Saturday morning. The live stream is scheduled to begin at 11:00am, with the mass starting at around 11:30am.

Stream the service live HERE.

The post Jerry Blavat Celebration Of Life To Be Live Streamed appeared first on 102.9 WMGK.

Doctor My Eyes – Jackson Browne

Crosby’s harmony blends perfectly with Jackson’s on the latter’s 1972 debut single.

Cage The Songbird – Elton John

David’s bandmate Graham Nash joins him on this pretty song from Sir Elton John’s Blue Moves double album from 1976. They’re also on the track “The Wide Eyed And Laughing” from the same album.

Hold My Hand – Hootie And The Blowfish

That’s David on background vocals on the debut single off of Cracked Rear View.

Street Angel – Stevie Nicks

The fifth studio album by Stevie Nicks came out in 1994, and you’ll hear Crosby on background vocals on the title track.

Breakaway – Art Garfunkel

A brilliant album, Breakaway by Art Garfunkel added David Crosby’s wonderful tones to several songs, including the dreamy title track.

Free Man In Paris – Joni Mitchell

Joni Mitchell wrote this song about the president of her record label, David Geffen, and it’s both Crosby and Nash accompanying her on vocals.

Nothing Like A Hundred Miles – James Taylor

Not one of Taylor’s more well-known tracks, this pretty track features David Crosby and Graham Nash on unmistakable background vocals.

Another Day In Paradise – Phil Collins

This powerful Phil Collins solo single went all the way to #1 in the U.S., and the background vocals David laid down behind Phil are just gorgeous.

The post 8 Songs You May Not Know Have David Crosby On Vocals appeared first on 102.9 WMGK.

10. Draw The Line – Aerosmith

The fifth album from Aerosmith was a study in rock and roll excess. Their manager wanted them to record this album in a three hundred room abandoned convent, far away from the temptations of the big city, but as Steven Tyler said, “drugs can be imported, you know!” There were guns, drugs, and general apathy from Tyler and Perry, but they somehow managed to make Draw The Line, the 10 rock album on the countdown. Here is the rocking title track:

9. The Grand Illusion – Styx

If this album from Styx wasn’t a hit, they’d have likely been dropped by their record company, A&M.  Obviously that didn’t happen.  In fact, The Grand Illusion was the band’s breakthrough, and on January 12, 1978, it was the #9 rock album.

8. Aja – Steely Dan

Donald Fagen and Walter Becker of Steely Dan utilized the services of 40 session musicians to make their masterwork, Aja.  It remains their biggest seller and bagged them a Grammy as well!  It peaked at #3 and, this week, it drops to #8 on our countdown.

7. Street Survivors – Lynyrd Skynyrd

Lynyrd Skynyrd brought in legendary producer Tom Dowd to work on what would be their last album with Ronnie, Steve and Cassie, Street Survivors.  It hit #5 in December, 1977 and dropped to #7 on January 12, 1978.

6. The Stranger – Billy Joel

After spending what seemed like an eternity at #2 (behind Saturday Night Fever), Billy Joel’s album The Stranger dropped a couple to #6 on our Thursday Top 10 Countdown.

5. French Kiss – Bob Welch

Even though Bob Welch left Fleetwood Mac in 1974, he still remained pals with Christine McVie , Mick Fleetwood and Lindsey Buckingham.  In fact, they ALL play on this track, a reworking of the 1972 Fleetwood Mac track, “Sentimental Lady.”  It was Welch’s lone solo hit and his album French Kiss was #5 on January 12, 1978.

4. News Of The World – Queen

Queen stripped down the production on this album, possibly in response to the growing punk rock movement, and it became their biggest seller to date.  News Of The World is the #4 rock album on the countdown, and kicks off with this rock anthem:

3. Out Of The Blue – Electric Light Orchestra

While in Switzerland writing songs for the next ELO album, Jeff Lynne was hit with a flood of creativity, enough for this album to be a double!  At #3 on January 12, 1978, Out Of The Blue.

2. Footloose And Fancy Free – Rod Stewart

Rod Stewart began his run of smash albums with Footloose And Fancy Free, his eighth solo album, and it peaked here at #2 on the 12th of January, 1978.  From it is this classic Rod rocker:

1. Rumours – Fleetwood Mac

It was a reality show set to record, one of the most honest collections of breakup songs ever made, as two sets of band members were ending relationships, and marriages, and yet still worked together.  That tension created one of rock’s greatest albums, an album that hit #1 and stayed there for over half a year!  #1 on January 12, 1978 was Rumours by Fleetwood Mac.

The post MGK’s Top Rock Albums From January 12, 1978 appeared first on 102.9 WMGK.

I fell in love with 45s when my dad and DJ brother Bill got me my first big batch of ’em..around mid-1966. I’m not sure what it is about these flat little guys, which I have cherished for almost 60 years, that makes them so magical to me. Well, I do know one reason. They fit into my limited allowance budget as a kid. I’d be able to get six or seven 45s a week for my pirate radio station and I’d be all set with the top hits of the day, ready to play for the dozens of people listening :). That was, until about 1975, when the companies all raised the retail price of a 45 from $0.99 to $1.49! That hurt the budget, though I believe I was able to successfully negotiate a raise to my allowance!

It was also the fact that, in most cases, the best song(s) from an album would be available to me for cheap and, if I was lucky, there would be a b-side that wasn’t even on the album! Sort of an early bonus track concept.

I also started to notice that, in some cases, the songs on the 45 had a different mix than the one on the album. that made the singles even more interesting. Later, as a collector, I really started diving into this collecting specialty of finding alternate mixes on the singles.

At my peak in the mid-80s, I probably had upwards of 10,000 albums and 2,000 45s in my collection. Over the years, I’ve severely pared down my collection to a much more manageable 500 albums, yet I still have about 750 singles. I regret getting rid of almost none of the LPs, except the 80s metal titles I threw away and now hear they fetch a lot of dough, but I do regret unloading any of my 45s. I’ve bought a lot of them back, in many cases in better condition, and while I don’t actively look for vinyl LPs much any more, I’m always out there at record shows, thumbing through rows and rows of 45s, hoping to find that one elusive title.

45s have given me so much pleasure over the years, and I thought I’d post a few singles from my collection that I randomly grabbed to show you. Happy Birthday, 45rpm single!!

We’re An American Band (first pressing gold vinyl) – Grand Funk

Ahh, colored vinyl! It jumps right out at you, doesn’t it? This was quite a treat for fans when first pressings of this single, and the album, came out on gold vinyl. It’s not particularly collectible, just fun to have.

Give Me Love (Give Me Peace On Earth) (US promotional copy)

I collect 45s, but also am a rabid collector of Beatles Apple records 45s, particularly the promo copies. This one’s a beauty.

They’re Coming To Take Me Away, HA-HAA! (autographed first pressing) – Napolean XIV

One of my most prized singles. Thanks to his son Eric Samuels, Napolean XIV (real name Jerry Samuels) signed this copy for me and gave me the 45 from his own collection.

Always Look On The Bright Side Of Life (promotional copy edited for language) – Monty Python

I remember grabbing this at WIFI-92 as soon as it came in, just because it said George Harrison mixed it at his home studio on the label! Little did I know that John DeBella would use this as his show closing soon after! This version is the promo copy that has the line “life’s a piece of s**t” edited for radio.

Hard Luck Woman (promotional copy) – Kiss

This is one of my favorite Kiss songs, and the single version is a totally different mix with some different vocals as well! I LOVE when they do that! I got this when I was at WIFI-92 radio, and I also got off on the fact this 45 was actually played on the radio. I’m geeking out, I know!

If You Love Somebody Set Them Free (test pressing of remix) – Sting

A&M Records re-released this track from The Dream Of The Blue Turtles in remixed form, exclusively to radio. To get it to the stations quickly, test pressings were sent out before any label artwork was created, hence the blank label with handwritten titles. I have a lot of these!

Penny Lane (US Promo 45 with extra trumpet) – The Beatles

One of my holy grail 45s in my collection. When Capitol sent “Penny Lane” and “Strawberry Fields Forever” to radio stations, they were given a different mix than the rest of the world. This mix has an extra bit of trumpet, played by David Mason, at the very end. It was the only place where this unique mix existed, and when Apple re-released the Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band album in 2017, they included this a bonus track. Only thing was, it was taken from a vinyl copy! Presumably, the master tape of that mix has been lost.

Come And Get Your Love (Promotional Copy with alternate mono mix) – Redbone

One of my favorites, the promo copy of this fine track has a totally different mix and feel than the stereo. I have been looking for this 45 in this condition for decades, and finally found it at last year’s record show in Oaks. Oh, the joy of collecting!

The post Happy Birthday To The 45rpm Single! appeared first on 102.9 WMGK.

This South Jersey-based band will show off their stuff this Friday night (1/13) at The Keswick Theater.  I had the chance to chat with the band’s lead singer, Rick Murphy.

(conversation edited for space and clarity)

Andre:

Hey, Rick Murphy, it’s so nice to meet you, man! I went to your website to listen to your band and you guys are freakin’ great!  I just love the way you capture the spirit of Bob Seger and his music, which I guess is what your band is all about, right?

Rick Murphy:

Yes, man, I appreciate you saying that. And that’s the goal. I mean, he’s such a great songwriter and lyricist and we have to keep his music alive.

Andre:

Let’s talk about the beginnings of your band.  Was it always going to be a Bob Seger tribute band, or did you evolve into that?

Rick:

It was just my vision to put together a group of people where everybody believed in something, you know what I mean? That was it. It wasn’t necessarily going to be Bob Seger out of the gate. It was just that we’ve been struggling all our lives to do something with music, we all believe in one vision, even if we all just get together, put the hard work in and play.  Then I said, “well let’s do some Bob Seger because that’s in my wheelhouse with my voice” and everybody was just kind of like not expecting that but, graciously, everybody was like “wow, this sounds pretty cool.” And once we started doing the rehearsing, we all knew that we were onto something good as musicians and people with Bob’s music. So it was a nice thing that was coming together for all of us, you know?

Andre:

Man, the combination of your vocals and your backing band – wow! – your voice is spot on and your band is tight!

Rick:

Yeah, I’ll tell you, Andre, it’s just a cool group of people who really care about playing it verbatim, you know, doing everything exactly by the album, because if you’re not gonna do it by the album then I don’t know if you really can call yourself a tribute band, you know what I mean?  You need to be right – dead on with the albums.

Andre:

Is there a particular era of Seger’s music on which you concentrate? Do you play the early stuff from the Bob Seger System – “Ramblin’ Gamblin’ Man” –  and all that?

Rick:

We cover some from back then. We do hit “Ramblin’ Gamblin’..”  We don’t venture a lot into the 80s too much, a little bit. We do have some songs in the show that will be from the 80s, but we’re kind of right in that ballpark of ’76-’77, you know when Bob was doing Live Bullet and you know, that whole live feeling of Bob Seger is sort of what we capture live..like on Live Bullet and Nine Tonight.

Andre:

I’m glad you mentioned the Nine Tonight album because when that first came out, I was so psyched that he did a cover of “Trying To Live My Life Without You”, which is a really obscure track, but he pulled that off.

Rick:

That’s an awesome song with the horn section.  I think at that moment I realized what a big horn section can do on stage because, you know, it’s like a powerhouse.

Andre:

Well, that’s another cool thing about your band! There’s not somebody on the keyboards back there playing the horn parts, you got live people doing all of those Alto Reed parts.  It’s great!

Rick:

Yeah, man, we weren’t gonna skimp on it, you know?  We have a full time piano player and a full time organ player. So to do this stuff right, you’ve got to have the organ and the piano at the same time, you can’t have somebody just trying to pull it off.

Andre:

You’re absolutely right. Rick, it can be attempted, but it will never sound the same, so that’s why  those individual parts are so very, very important. You have nine band members in all, right?

Rick:

Nine members on stage.

Andre:

And how long have you all been together?

Rick:

This is our 13th year, Andre.

Andre:

Wow, that’s fantastic. And how cool is it to land that Keswick gig this Friday night?

Rick:

Well, you know, being in a band and getting the chance to play the Keswick, that’s an honor man.  I mean, you want to go in there the first time and hit a home run and make a great relationship and get invited back, and I think we’re on our way to doing that. But I thank you guys for helping out. That’ll definitely get us over that wall and we really appreciate that.

Andre:

Well, I’m wishing you the best of luck!  Thanks for your time, man. The only downside of this for me is that I’m not gonna be able to go, unfortunately, but I hope to see you somewhere down the line.

Rick:

Yeah, brother.  I hope you can come out and see the show and thank you again for the time. I really appreciate it.

Hollywood Nights – The Bob Seger Experience appears at the Keswick Theater in Glenside, PA this Friday night, 1/13/23, for an all ages show.  Showtime is 8:00pm, doors open at 7:00pm.  Tickets are $32.50 – $49.00 ($37.50-$55.00 day of show) and be purchased here.

–

The post Hollywood Nights Band Does A Spot-On Bob Seger Show appeared first on 102.9 WMGK.

He was obsessive over the band’s guitar parts. During overdub sessions for “Presence,” he worked upwards of 18 hours a day in Musicland Studios in Germany, getting the parts just right. Of course, he WAS on a deadline at the time, having to vacate the studio for The Stones (who’d booked it right after Zeppelin). That seemed to inspire him even more.

Inspiration also came in the form of the English and Welsh properties where Page and band recorded and lived. For Led Zeppelin III, he and the group stayed at Bron-Yr-Aur, an 18th century cottage in Wales. It was there Page composed some of his most beautiful acoustic-tinged tracks which ended up on future albums. At Headley Grange, the haunted English manor house, much of their next three albums were recorded there. Songs like “Stairway To Heaven” and “Kashmir” were born at Headley Grange.

While Jimmy Page’s work with The Yardbirds, Led Zeppelin and the Firm is very well known, loved and respected, he has played on many recordings by other artists. Before he joined The Yardbirds, Page was a very much in-demand session player. In fact, it was the money he made from his session work that helped him finance the recording of Led Zeppelin I.

Jimmy Page shines whenever he picks up and plays a guitar. Even though we equate him and his work with those three superstar bands in which he’s played, he’s done mush more. In fact, here are 10 moments of Jimmy Page guitar brilliance that aren’t Led Zeppelin:

10. Sunshine Superman – Donovan

Page’s guitar work blended perfectly with Donovan’s hazy, psychedelic masterpiece.

9. Don’t Turn Your Back On Me – Jackie DeShannon

One of Jimmy’s early session dates was to play on this single by singer/songwriter Jackie DeShannon.  Page is credited as co-writer of the track after he and DeShannon worked on the guitar arrangement together.  The two later had a brief romantic relationship, and it’s long been rumored the Led Zeppelin song “Tangerine” was written about their breakup.

8. Bald Headed Woman – The Who

Although the story has been disputed regarding Page’s contribution on The Who’s first single, “I Can’t Explain,” that is unequivocally Jimmy ripping that fuzz guitar on the single’s b-side, “Bald Headed Woman.”

7. The Pied Piper – Crispian St. Peters

One of my earliest musical memories is hearing and falling in love with this song in 1966, “The Pied Piper” by a dude named Crispian St. Peters.  It came out in the U.S. on the Philly-based label Jamie Records, and was a top 5 hit.  On guitar?  Jimmy Page!

6. Baby Please Don’t Go – Them

The second single by Van Morrison’s former band featured Jimmy Page on guitar. Whether it was lead or rhythm has been debated for decades, but we do know Page is on it in some form. Both parts are smokin’!

5. It’s Not Unusual – Tom Jones

60s heartthrob Tom Jones scored his first big hit with his second single, which features session man Jimmy Page on guitar.  interestingly, the drummer on the track was Andy White, who played drums on The Beatles’ first single “Love Me Do” and “P.S. I Love You.”

4. With A Little Help From My Friends – Joe Cocker

This soulful rearrangement of The Beatles’ classic by Joe Cocker has some sweet lead guitar riffs, played by Page.

3. Scarlet – The Rolling Stones

This track remained unreleased for decades until the deluxe re-issue of The Stones’ Goats Head Soup came out in 2020.  It was recorded at Ronnie Wood’s house, The Wick, in the fall of 1974, right around the time the band recorded “It’s Only Rock And Roll” at the same location.  While “It’s Only Rock And Roll” featured David Bowie on background vocals, “Scarlet” had Jimmy Page jamming with Keith Richards, Ian Stewart and Mick Jagger.

2. One Hit (To The Body) – The Rolling Stones

Page also played the lead guitar solo on this Stones classic, from their Dirty Work album.

1. Tobacco Road – The Nashville Teens

The Nashville Teens were not from Nashville – they were British – and they had just one hit here in the US, a cover of John D. Loudermilk’s “Tobacco Road.”  That smooth guitar work on the track was played by Jimmy Page.

The post 10 Moments Of Jimmy Page Guitar Brilliance That Aren’t Led Zeppelin appeared first on 102.9 WMGK.

On the charts were a staggering list of beloved rock albums..

10. They Only Come Out At Night – The Edgar Winter Group

This band had no less than Rick Derringer, Ronnie Montrose and Dan Hartman as members, backing rock/blues legend Edgar Winter. Their biggest album was They Only Come Out At Night, our #10 rock album this week.

9. The Rise And Fall Of Ziggy Stardust And The Spiders From Mars – David Bowie

Bowie’s masterwork set the rock world on fire, with inventive songs and excellent production on the #9 rock album from January 5, 1973, The Rise And Fall Of Ziggy Stardust And The Spiders From Mars.

8. Trilogy – Emerson, Lake And Palmer

The third album, from a trio, called Trilogy.  It was a perfect match, and the album from progressive rock legends Emerson, Lake and Palmer, was #8 on January 5, 1973.

7. Toulouse Street – The Doobie Brothers

Although The Doobie Brothers’ third album, The Captain And Me, was about to be released in a few weeks, the band’s second release, Toulouse Street was still on the charts!  This week, it was the #7 rock album in the country.

6. Honky Chateau – Elton John

Sir Elton John’s fifth album, Honky Chateau, was the first of SEVEN consecutive #1 albums for him. Here. a year after it was released, it was still in the top 10 at #6.

5. Chicago V – Chicago

Thanks to the talented artists in the Columbia Records art department, Chicago were able to have very clever album cover designs based around their logo.  For their fifth album, Chicago V, it had a wood paneled look, and it looked really cool!  The album sounded great, too, and Chicago V was #5 on January 5, 1973.

4. Never A Dull Moment – Rod Stewart

Sir Rod followed up the success of Every Picture Tells A Story with the same lineup of Faces bandmates and session musicians, and it was another hit for him.  Never A Dull Moment, after peaking at #2, drops two to #4 on the countdown this week.

3. Homecoming – America

America lifted the tempo a bit on their songs with their sophomore release, Homecoming.  It peaked here at #3 and featured one of their finest tracks, “Ventura Highway.”

2. Living In The Past – Jethro Tull

Jethro Tull’s Living In the Past was a fitting title for this album.  It was a 2-LP collection of outtakes, b-sides and overlooked singles that proved to be quite a success for Ian and the band.  It’s #2 on the countdown this week, and here is the title track.

1. Seventh Sojourn – The Moody Blues

Topping the chart this week is the eighth album by this legendary British band.  After recording the album, and embarking on a world tour, they took a five year break to rest up, no doubt happy of this album’s success.  #1 on January 5, 1973 was Seventh Sojourn by The Moody Blues!

The post MGK’s Top Rock Albums From January 5, 1973 appeared first on 102.9 WMGK.

He first found fame with longtime colleague Neil Young in Buffalo Springfield, before reaching international rock star status with Crosby, Stills, Nash and, later, Young. His work with those bands is legendary, writing rock standards like “Suite: Judy Blue Eyes,” “Carry On” and “Dark Star,” just to name a few, but much of his work outside of those groups, and to some extent his solo career, has been criminally overlooked.

In addition, his songs have recorded by dozens of artists, and he has appeared as a guest musician on so many wonderful recordings including, ironically, one by The Monkees!

Here are 10 times Stephen Stills cemented his status in the pantheon of rock and roll. Some of these you know by heart, some you may hear for the first time:

10. Love The One You’re With – Stephen Stills

Well of COURSE I have to start with this one, the one everyone knows. What’s great about this track is that Stephen plays all guitars and that killer organ solo.

9. Song Of Love – Manassas

Stills formed this “supergroup” in 1971 with Chris Hillman of the Byrds, Fuzzy Samuels and Dallas Taylor from the CSNY Band, Joe Lala, Al Perkins and Paul Harris.  Their debut album, a double LP, was a fantastic mixture of rock, blues, folk and country. It even went gold soon after its release, yet it’s largely forgotten today.

8. Turn My Life Down – Jefferson Airplane

Stills’ organ playing on this track from the Airplane’s Volunteers album is pure bliss!

7. Lady’s Baby – The Monkees

Yes, Stephen Stills played on a recording by The Monkees, even though he lost out auditioning for the band! The track, written by pal Peter Tork, wasn’t initially released, but later appeared on the outtakes album Missing Links, and features some nice bluesy guitar by Stills.

6. She’s A Lady – John Sebastian

Although Crosby, Stills and Nash appear on the debut solo album by the Lovin’ spoonful co-founder, months before they formed their band, they don’t appear together on any track on this album.  Crosby does sing background vocals on this beautiful track, and Stills added the gorgeous acoustic guitar work.

5. Carey – Joni Mitchell

That tasty guitar and bass work on this fun track from Joni’s masterwork, Blue, is the perfect touch.

4. You Should Be Dancing – The Bee Gees

It was one of the pioneering songs of the disco movement, by one of its biggest artists and, yes, that is Stephen Stills playing killer percussion on the track, along with his Manassas bandmate Joe Lala.

3. (You’ve Got A) Nice Way – Ringo Starr

Not only did Stills co-write and play guitar on this track off of Stop And Smell The Roses, but he produced the song as well!

2. Season Of the Witch – Al Kooper (Super Session)

Al Kooper put out a critically acclaimed solo album in 1968, with an interesting twist. He partnered with guitarist Mike Bloomfield of Electric Flag on side one of the album, with Stephen Stills handling guitar duties on side 2. His cover of Donovan’s “Season Of The Witch,” with Stills, is a bluesy marvel.

1. Ain’t No Sunshine – Bill Withers

One of the key ingredients of this all-time classic was the mournful, soulful acoustic guitar work.  It was years before I heard that it was Stephen Stills playing the part, and it made me respect him even more than I already did, which was a lot! Hands down, it’s my favorite Stills guest appearance on record.

The post 10 Times Stephen Stills Blew Me Away Outside Of CSN(Y) appeared first on 102.9 WMGK.

10. No Jacket Required – Phil Collins

Phil’s third solo album was his biggest, staying on the charts for over a year. No Jacket Required was hanging in at #10 on December 22, 1985.

9. Reckless – Bryan Adams

Only three artists have notched 5 top 15 songs from the same album:  Bruce Springsteen, Michael Jackson, and this guy, Bryan Adams, with Reckless, the #9 rock album on this week’s Thursday Top 10 Countdown.

8. Knee Deep In The Hoopla – Starship

We’ll get to see this band at Freedom Mortgage Pavilion next July with Bret Michaels and Night Ranger..Jefferson Starship.  Their album Knee Deep In the Hoopla was the #8 rock album on December 22, 1985.

7. Dream Of The Blue Turtles – Sting

The debut solo album by Sting had some similar sounding songs to his days in The Police, but he also experimented with jazz, even earning him a grammy nomination for best jazz instrumental!  The Dream Of The Blue Turtles was at #7 on December 22, 1985.

6. Songs From The Big Chair – Tears For Fears

After a moderately successful debut album, Tears For Fears returned with their biggest seller, Songs From The Big Chair. After hitting #1, it drops here to #6.

5. Born In The USA – Bruce Springsteen

While it never won a Grammy, Bruce Springsteen’s Born In The U.S.A. has sold over 20 million copies, making it one of the biggest selling albums of all time.  It was basically parked in the top 10 for a year and here, it’s #5.

4. Brothers In Arms – Dire Straits

Known as much for its sound quality as the quality of the songs, Brothers In Arms by Dire Straits is a rock masterwork, peaking at the top spot and, on December 22, 1985, it was #4.

3. Scarecrow – John Mellencamp

John Mellencamp hit a career peak with this, his eighth album called Scarecrow.  With this album he said he felt like he was finally finding his footing as a songwriter.  And what songs!  Scarecrow is #3 on the countdown.

2. Miami Vice Original Soundtrack

When you think of 80s TV shows, Miami Vice is almost certainly one of the first to come to mind.  It was iconic for the time, and the soundtrack album was full of amazing songs used in the series.  The Miami Vice Soundtrack went all the way to #1, and drops this week to #2. Here is one of the highlights from Glenn Frey.

1. Heart – Heart

At the top of the charts is the eighth album and biggest seller for this sister duo from Seattle. After refining their sound in a more pop direction, they hit it big with this album, spawning four hit singles and giving them their first album and single to hit #1. The #1 rock album on December 22, 1985 was the self titled album by Heart!

The post MGK Thursday Top 10 Countdown From December 22, 1985 appeared first on 102.9 WMGK.

There is no one like him on TV, and there probably never will be. He has such an authoritative, yet reassuring style that has kept him on top of the TV ratings for over 45 years. FORTY FIVE YEARS. At number one. Not too shabby!

He’s a pretty private guy, so there aren’t a slew of stories from people who’ve met him.

But I have a doozy.

It was my one and only meeting with Jim, and it lasted a good 30 minutes. To be perfectly honest, I wouldn’t have been surprised if he totally blew me off, considering my situation at the time, but he couldn’t have been more kind or accommodating.

Back in the late 80s/early 90s, while I was working the 6pm-10pm shift at 94 WYSP, we did a holiday food drive each November/December, called the Marathon For Meals. It was similar to the hugely successful Campout For Hunger, hosted by my 93-3 WMMR colleagues, Preston And Steve, but on a MUCH smaller scale! I’d set up in a class A RV, parked in the back of the old Adams Mark Hotel parking lot, where I would live day and night for 14 days. Next to me was a 48′ tractor-trailer that we’d fill up with food donations from listeners who came by with canned goods.

Of course, donation traffic was highest during the day and, after my show was over at 10pm, things usually got a little quieter. As a younger (and dopier) man, that was a chance for my friends and me to throw it down a little bit inside that RV until the wee hours of the morning, with our two huge security guys “T” and “Truck” keeping watch over us.

On one particular Friday night, right after my show ended, I was hanging with a couple of pals when a friend of mine showed up to the RV with the most dank, fragrant and potent cannabis I had come in contact with in a long, long time. Not long after, we opened up that vacuum-packed bag and went to town on it. It did not disappoint. By 11:00pm, we were completely and totally baked, laughing hysterically and playing music in the RV, figuring we’d wrap things up in a bit, my friends would book home and I’d get the hell to sleep.

All of a sudden, there’s a knock on the RV door. We stop and look at each other and I say to my friend, still giggling, “ok, it’s probably someone dropping off can donations. I’ll quickly open the door, thank them for the donations, and we should be cool.” I open the door, as a HUGE plume of cannabis smoke goes billowing out of the RV, like a scene from a Cheech And Chong movie.

It was Jim Gardner.

He had just wrapped up his 11pm Action News newscast and wanted to come by to say hi and lend his support to our food drive. I am 99% sure the weed smoke that poured out of the RV totally hit him in the face, but he didn’t flinch. He said hello, we invited him into the RV to hang out, and he came in. The dude could not have been nicer or more accommodating. We called up the DJ on the air at WYSP (Robin Lee, who is now our digital guru and does weekends on WMMR) and asked if we could go on live with Jim, and he came on and gave us a killer segment on the air.

Afterward, he recorded a few bits for our drive that we could run, posed for two polaroids with me that my friend took, and he was on his way. He never said a word about our conditions, nor the obvious pungent odor emanating from the cabin of the RV.

My friend and I just sat there for a few moments after Jim left, shaking our heads in amazement that we not only got to meet one of our media heroes, but that we did it while in this condition, and we (probably) didn’t make asses of ourselves.

Years later, while taking a tour of the beautiful new 6ABC studios, I saw Jim’s desk. No huge, fancy office, no team of people at his beck and call, just a simple desk, next to all the other cubicles in the newsroom, with family pictures, a picture of Dave Roberts (!) and a simple name on the divider: Jim Gardner. Of course, I had to be a galoot and sit in his chair for a picture, which he teased me about on social media shortly thereafter.

I’m sure going to miss Jim, and I know lots and lots of Philadelphians will, too. He’s the real deal.

The post My Crazy Night Meeting Jim Gardner, A Class Act appeared first on 102.9 WMGK.

MGK and Comcast Business salute local businesses that have continued to serve their community during these last few tough years.  This week we are happy to salute The Pickers Junction in Sellersville, PA.

The Pickers Junction is the go-to place for just about anything, and you may have seen them on an episode of Pawn Stars Do America on History Channel. Whether it’s antiques, guitars, collectibles, you name it, you’ll find it here. Owner Leslie O’Brien prides herself on their great selection and reasonable prices.

While they do have quite a large inventory, it’s well appointed throughout the store, so there’s plenty of room to search, or find, what you’re looking for. And when the weather gets warm, they hold a flea market outside their shop on Saturdays.

Congratulations to Leslie and her staff of The Pickers Junction in Sellersville, PA, our MGK/Comcast Small Business Of The Week!

The post MGK Comcast Small Business Salute – The Pickers Junction appeared first on 102.9 WMGK.

Of course, everyone has their favorite Christmas songs, so I thought I’d share mine with you. I’ve only included rock songs in this list, but could easily add a hundred more from all genres. I’d love to hear some of your favorites!

12. Ding Dong Ding Dong – George Harrison

George’s 1974 end of year classic took many of its lyrics from words etched along the inner walls of his Friar Park mansion in Henley-On-Thames. The hilarious video for the song also gives us a look at post-Beatles George donning his Beatles suit!

11. 2000 Miles – Pretenders

This wonderful track was an a-side in the UK, and the b-side to “Middle Of The Road” here in the states, later appearing on Learning To Crawl.  I love how it fades in!

10. The 12 Days Of Christmas – Bob And Doug Mackenzie

Hey, Hoser.  I had to include this one, a song that has given me many belly laughs over the years, as has the rest of that album!

9. I Believe In Father Christmas – Greg Lake

Oh, what a beautiful song.  Recorded at Abbey Road Studios and, by all accounts, a pretty wild session, this one always gets plays at my house over the holidays.

8. Christmas Time Is Here Again – The Beatles

This song, taken from the band’s 1967 Fan Club Christmas disc sessions, has never seen its entire six and a half minute take officially released.  It has, however, come out in edited form several times, the most complete version showing up as a b-side on the “Free As A Bird” CD single.

7. Step Into Christmas – Elton John

It was a shock to go to the record store in late 1973 and see an Elton John Christmas single in the bin, just months after Goodbye Yellow Brick Road came out. It’s a fantastic song, in the Phil Spector vein, and the video is fun to watch as well. It features a cameo buy Elton’s lyricist Bernie Taupin playing gong in the video, though it was Ray Cooper on the record!

6. Happy Xmas (War Is Over) – John & Yoko with The Harlem Community Choir

John and Yoko did not disappoint with their holiday submission.  It sure was tough to hear for years after his death, but it’s getting easier.

5. Thanks For Christmas – Three Wise Men

The horribly overlooked band XTC rank as one of my favorite bands of all time, and this came out of nowhere in late 1983.  They were billed as “Three Wise Men” and I remember finding this 12″ as an import at the old Plastic Fantastic in Ardmore and being very psyched.  XTC fans will note this is the only song of theirs to have their two main vocalists singing lead on the same song.

4. River – Joni Mitchell

A song that almost defies description, it’s a beautiful, but gut wrenching look at loneliness over the holidays.  I just love this song so much, but usually listen in private so I can bawl my eyes out lol.

3. Father Christmas – The Kinks

I would have expected nothing less from these amazing talented Davies brothers.  It is a breath of fresh air every time I hear/play it and features some marvelous Dave Davies guitar work.

2. Christmas Wrapping – The Waitresses

I was already a huge fan of this band, with their song “I Know What Boys Like.”   It tells such a great story, and the late Patty Donahue’s vocals are absolutely perfect.  It’s not Christmas for me if I don’t hear this classic. I also must give mad props to Tracy Wormworth’s ridiculous bass work!

1. Wonderful Christmastime – Paul McCartney

I just don’t understand all the hate for this song.  To me, it’s Paul at his catchiest best, and it instantly captures the spirit of the holidays every time I hear it.  Paul recorded this in the dead of summer, in August, 1979, during sessions for his McCartney II album and, yes, it’s my favorite of them all!

The post Andre Gardner’s Top 12 Classic Rock Christmas Songs Ever appeared first on 102.9 WMGK.

10. Bad Company – Bad Company

Bad Company were the first band signed to Led Zeppelin’s “Swan Song” label, and their impact was immediate. Their debut album hit #1 and went on to sell over 3 million copies, making it one of the top 50 best selling albums of the 70s. So why aren’t they in the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame?? Oy vey. Bad Company drops to #10 this week.

9. Streetlife Serenade – Billy Joel

Billy Joel didn’t look too happy on the back cover of his third album, Streetlife Serenade.  As it turned out, he’d had his wisdom teeth extracted just two days before that photo was taken, which explains it!  The album peaked here at #9 and features this Joel classic.

8. Chicago VII – Chicago

The sixth studio album by Chicago was a departure of sorts.  The first five tracks were jazz instrumentals yet, despite that rather unconventional way to start a rock album, Chicago VII topped the charts, their third in a row to do so.  On December 8, 1974, the album slipped to #8.

7. Caribou – Elton John

The biggest rock star in the world, at the time, was Elton John, and the followup to his masterwork, Goodbye Yellow Brick Road had something very similar to the album we just featured prior.  It, too, was recorded in the Rocky Mountains of Colorado at the studio immortalized in the title, Caribou.  It was another chart topper for Elton and, on the countdown this week, it’s #7.

6. Odds And Sods – The Who

Released as an attempt to thwart the burgeoning bootleg market, Odds And Sods was compiled by John Entwistle from outtakes, b-sides and live performances from the Who’s archives.  In typical Pete Townshend fashion, his liner notes for the album were quite critical of some of the songs, but the fans loved them and the album peaked at #6 on December 8, 1974.  From it is an outtake from 1972, based on a discarded rock opera idea of Pete’s, called “Long Live Rock.”

5. David Live – David Bowie

David Bowie’s historic run of shows at the Tower Theater in July, 1974 were, thankfully, recorded and released as “David Live,” his first live album, and the #5 rock album on December 8, 1974.

4. War Child – Jethro Tull

Out of the ashes of an abandoned movie and double album idea came Jethro Tull’s seventh studio album, War Child.  The album went all the way to #2, before dropping two to #4 on December 8, 1974.

3. Walls And Bridges – John Lennon

It’s still so hard to believe that we lost John 42 years ago today (12/8/22).  He left behind an incredible body of work, both with and without The Beatles.  One of his solo career highlights was this song, which gave John his first U.S. #1 as a solo artist.  It’s “Whatever Gets You Through The Night,” featuring his pal Elton John, and it’s from the #3 rock album on the countdown this week, Walls And Bridges.

2. Not Fragile – Bachman-Turner Overdrive

Randy Bachman thought it a bit strange that the band Yes, so powerful in their music, would name one of their album’s Fragile.  In tongue-in-cheek fashion, to bust a few chops, Bachman named BTO’s third album, Not Fragile, owing to their hard rock style.  It was the band’ breakthrough and their only #1 album.  After hitting the peak spot, it drops to #2 on December 8, 1974.

1. It’s Only Rock And Roll – The Rolling Stones

At the top of the chart this week is the 14th American studio album by one of the biggest bands of all time.  It would be the last album for their second lead guitarist, who left shortly after its recording.  The album would be the fourth of eight #1 albums in a row for the group.  #1 on December 8, 1974 was It’s Only Rock And Roll by The Rolling Stones.

The post MGK Thursday Top 10 Countdown From December 8, 1974 appeared first on 102.9 WMGK.

Ever wonder where the first responders, EMT and other rescue and safety personnel get their training? They’re done by companies like Elder Technical Rescue Services, founded in 2017 by U.S. Air Force vet Bill Elder. They are dedicated to safety on all fronts, and Bill and his team provide both training and consulting services to a variety of businesses, either in person or virtually.

Since their first year of operation in 2018, they’ve conducted over 330 safety and rescue training classes and their goal is simple: help make communities and businesses safer. Their courses, which always follow NFPA, ANSI and OSHA standards, are accredited by the National Association of Safety Professionals, the Pennsylvania Department of Health – Bureau of EMS, the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission and the Pennsylvania State Fire Academy.

The incredible work Bill and his team do every day is essential to the community, and we are happy to honor him as our MGK/Comcast Small Business Salute recipient of the week.

Are you a small business owner who would liked to be spotlighted on our Small Business Salute? Let us know! Click here and tell us all about your business. What makes it special? How are you making a difference in your community? Each week, we’ll reveal another deserving choice in our MGK/Comcast Small Business Salute.

Presented by Comcast Business.

The post MGK Comcast Small Business Salute: Elder Technical Rescue Services appeared first on 102.9 WMGK.

1. Within You Without You

When you’ve seen beyond yourself
Then you may find peace of mind is waiting there.
And the time will come when you see we’re all one
And life flows on within you and without you.

2. Isn’t It A Pity

Some things take so long
but how do I explain
when not too many people
can see we’re all the same?
And because of all their tears
their eyes can’t hope to see
the beauty that surrounds them.
Isn’t it a pity.

3. Beware Of Darkness

Watch out now, take care
beware of the thoughts that linger
winding up inside your head.
The hopelessness around you
in the dead of night.

Beware of sadness.
It can hit you,
it can hurt you,
make you sore and what is more,
that is not what you are here for.

4. Be Here Now

Remember now,
be here now.
And it’s not like it was before.
The past, was, be here now.
And it’s not like it was before
it was.

5. The Answer’s At The End

Scan not a friend with a microscopic glass.
You know his faults, now let his foibles pass.
Life is one long enigma, my friend
So read on, read on,
The answer’s at the end.

6. See Yourself

It’s easier to tell a lie than it is to tell the truth.
It’s easier to kill a fly than it is to turn it loose.
It’s easier to criticize somebody else
Than to see yourself.

7. It’s All Too Much

It’s all too much for me to take
The love that’s shining all around you
All the world’s a birthday cake
So take a piece, but not too much.

8. Save The World

We’ve got to save the world
Someone’s children they may need it
So far we’ve seen
The big business of extinction bleed it
We’ve got to save the world.

9. Any Road

If you don’t know where you’re going,
Any road will take you there.

10. Brainwashed

The soul does not love, it is love itself.
It does not exist, it is existence itself.
It does not know, it is knowledge itself.

The post 10 Pearls Of Wisdom From George Harrison appeared first on 102.9 WMGK.

The concert was organized by Olivia and Dhani Harrison, with Eric Clapton serving as the night’s musical director, and featured a gathering of some of George’s closest friends and musical associates paying tribute and playing his wonderful songs to an appreciative, sold out Royal Albert Hall crowd. Paul McCartney, Ringo Starr, Tom Petty, Jeff Lynne, Billy Preston and a few Monty Python members took to the stage to lovingly play George’s music, and the sight of Dhani standing on that stage playing, while a huge photo of his Dad hung behind him, was so touching.

The accompanying soundtrack album and film came out in 2003 and now, you’ll have another chance to see that beautiful concert on the big screen. The only thing is, it’s tomorrow, and it’s for just one day only. I remember hosting a screening at the Neshaminy movie theater complex, and hanging with all the Beatles fans watching the movie, and I’m so happy it’s getting the big screen treatment one more time.

Thankfully there are hundreds of theaters around the world where you can see The Concert For George. Find out more information, and purchase tickets for this special event, here.

The post The Concert For George Returns To The Big Screen For One Day appeared first on 102.9 WMGK.

Owner Steve Wilson started out just any other backyard barbequer, perfecting his blend of spices and sauces while grilling at home. His BBQ was so loved by friends and family that he started to enter his work in several well known BBQing contests..and won! That led to him starting a catering business in 2010 and, in 2018, he and his wife Kelly opened Wilson’s Secret Sauce BBQ.

In addition to serving up delicious BBQ dishes for their customers, Steve and Kelly are very active giving back to the community, helping to raise money and working with a variety of local organizations including Philabundance, Haverford Alliance For Drug Awareness, Kids Against Hunger, and our sister station WMMR’s Campout For Hunger. In addition, they have a year round canned food drive and clothes collection that they take to Kensington every 2 weeks and setup in the streets to cook for the residents. Steve, Kelly and their team recently traveled to Florida with 200 pounds of pork and brisket to assist in hurricane relief, also raising over $4000 and loading up a 14’ trailer full of supplies.

This crew is the perfect example of a small business serving their community, and we congratulate Wilson’s Secret Sauce BBQ, out MGK’Comcast Small Business Of The Week!

Are you a small business owner who would liked to be spotlighted on our Small Business Salute? Let us know! Click here and tell us all about your business. What makes it special? How are you making a difference in your community? Each week, we’ll reveal another deserving choice in our MGK/Comcast Small Business Salute.

Presented by Comcast Business.

The post MGK Comcast Small Business Salute: Wilson’s Secret Sauce BBQ appeared first on 102.9 WMGK.

The show is run by a dude named Fred Falk, who has put this particular show on for over 20 years, and who I’ve known for even longer.  After a few years  at other locations, you might remember record shows at the National Guard Armory in the Northeast, Fred and his team have found a home at the Oaks EXPO Center.  It’s the perfect spot, too.  It’s big, there’s plenty of free parking, and it’s literally right off 422 at Oaks.  Even in that labyrinth that is the Oaks EXPO Center, the signage is so well laid out that you’ll find the right hall in no time.

There’s something about going to a record show and diving into all the vinyl goodies that is so satisfying.  It’s almost like I go into a trance when I’m on my 30th rack of 45s that I’m thumbing through, waiting to find that one hidden gem.  The last time I was there, for hours, I kept looking and thumbing through the singles and, BAM, there it is!  The promo 45 of “Come And Get Your Love” by Redbone with the alternate mono mix I’d been looking for for years, and now I’d found it.  Gently slipping it out of the sleeve, I took a look at the vinyl and saw it had rarely been played.  It was so pristine, it even had that new record ‘dust’ on it.  Best of all, the guy wanted just $7 for it.  A smile came to my face as a rush overtook my body.  I paid the man, and left with a cherished piece of wax I’d looked for forever.  S-C-O-R-E.  That’s what it’s all about right there.

I guarantee you’ll see me there at some point this weekend – I never miss it.  Happy hunting!!

The Annual “Not Just Rock” Expo runs this Friday 11/25 from 12-6pm, and Saturday, 11/26, from 10am-4pm at the Oaks EXPO Center in Oaks. PA.  Vince “Vinny” Martell, founding member of the 60s psychedelic band Vanilla Fudge will be there Saturday from 1-4pm meeting fans.  Admission is $5, and there are some light food and drink options available.  The more hardcore collector might want to check out their special pre-show admission, both days, for $15.  For more information, click here.

The post It’s A Vinyl Collector’s Paradise In Oaks This Weekend appeared first on 102.9 WMGK.

10. Year Of The Cat – Al Stewart

Al Stewart released his debut album in 1967, but it was nine years later that he hit it big with “Year Of The Cat,” the #10 rock album on the countdown this week.

9. Agents Of Fortune – Blue Öyster Cult

Formerly known as the Soft White Underbelly, the band formed in Stony Brook, Long Island, changed their name to the equally psychedelic Blue Öyster Cult.  Their biggest hit was this one, from the #9 rock album on November 17, 1976, Agents Of Fortune.

8. A New World Record – Electric Light Orchestra

This album’s title could have described the songwriting process Jeff Lynne went through in the making of this, ELO’s sixth album.  Lynne said the songs were coming to him faster than ever, and A New World Record stands as one of ELO’s finest achievements.  It’s #8 on this week’s countdown.

7. Fleetwood Mac – Fleetwood Mac

Even though it had been out for fifteen months, Fleetwood Mac’s self-titled album, the first to feature Stevie Nicks and Lindsey Buckingham, was still firmly entrenched in the top 10.  It was #7 on November 17, 1976.

6. Silk Degrees – Boz Scaggs

Former Steve Miller Band member Boz Scaggs scored his biggest solo hit with this album, Silk Degrees.  Backed by members of Toto, the album sold millions and even gave Boz a Grammy!  It’s #6 on the countdown this week.

5. Dreamboat Annie – Heart

Heart’s debut album took a while to catch on, but once it did it propelled the Wilson sisters to stardom. On November 17, 1976, the #5 rock album in the country was Dreamboat Annie.

4. A Night On The Town – Rod Stewart

Rod Stewart modified a classic Renoir painting for the cover of his seventh solo album, A Night On The Town.  The album is #4 on the countdown, and gave Rod another #1 single, “Tonight’s The Night (Gonna Be Alright).”

3. Fly Like An Eagle – Steve Miller Band

Three years in the making, which was quite uncommon in 1975-76, Steve Miller’s Fly Like An Eagle was his breakthrough, and still stands as his biggest seller.  It was the #3 rock album on November 17, 1976.

2. Boston – Boston

At one time, this was the biggest selling debut album in history. Then along came Appetite For Destruction. Still, the debut album by Boston stands as one of rocks greatest, and this week it’s #2 on the countdown.

1. Frampton Comes Alive – Peter Frampton

1976 was definitely the year of this rock star, who’s first live album became a staple in the collections of millions of rock and roll fans all around the world.  To this day, it stands as one of the biggest selling live albums of all time, selling over 11 million copies in the U.S. alone.  #1 on November 17, 1976 was Frampton Comes Alive by Peter Frampton.

The post MGK Thursday Top 10 Countdown From November 17, 1976. appeared first on 102.9 WMGK.

Fans of The Beatles and Paul McCartney were no doubt thrilled to hear the surprise news of Paul’s next release, The 7″ Singles Box, on December 2. It’s a stunning set of 80 7″ singles, covering Paul’s entire career. While the set will be available digitally, serious McCartney collectors already have most, if not all of these titles in some form in their collections. The real treat is the limited edition vinyl set, limited to just 3000 copies. All 80 vinyl remastered singles have the original 45 sleeve artwork from various Paul releases around the world, and the set is housed in a beautiful pine box, complete with a 100-page book!

There’s just one problem with the book. The singles in the book’s track list are all numbered from 1-80, with “A” side and “B” sides indicated, and a few double “A” sides on there as well. Take a look below at single 41B, the dreamy b-side of Paul’s 1986 song “Press” called “It’s Not True” – wait, WHAT? What’a a “ture?” Hello? Capitol Quality Control?

Photo by Andre Gardner

Another Beatles related release, another mistake.

Preorders are already sold out for the set, which sells for over $600. Say it isn’t ture!

This error is only the tip of the iceberg with Beatles and solo recordings. I’ve assembled some of my favorite goofs over the years, and you’ll see why this is no isolated occurrence. Do the Stones have this problem??

The post It’s Paul McCartney’s Turn For Another Mistake On A Beatles’ Release appeared first on 102.9 WMGK.

Owner Krista Rosiak is a first generation immigrant from St. Petersburg, Russia who came to the U.S. when she was 14. Her vision for her combination bakery/device repair business was simple: “if you break an electronic device, you need a cupcake to cheer you up!” That means customers can purchase and enjoy a delicious selection of cupcake treats while their phones are being repaired.

The idea to continue her cupcake business came from her daughter, who tragically passed away at the age of 18, and who urged her to keep the business going. Krista joined forces with team at the Girls Fix It Cafe and, together, they have been steadily serving the community ever since.

Paddy Cakes has a lovely selection of their “overly stuffed and unique creations,” and they also have adult-flavored cupcakes as well! There’s truly something for everyone to enjoy, all while getting their electronics serviced. And with Thanksgiving around the corner, their crew is ready to take your special order for the big weekend.

Congratulations, Krista Rosiak, and her team at Paddy Cakes Bake Shop and Girls Fix it Cafe in North Wales, PA, our MGK/Comcast Small Business of the week!

Are you a small business owner who would liked to be spotlighted on our Small Business Salute? Let us know! Click here and tell us all about your business. What makes it special? How are you making a difference in your community? Each week, we’ll reveal another deserving choice in our MGK/Comcast Small Business Salute.

Presented by Comcast Business.

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10. Eliminator – ZZ Top

Who’d have thought Billy, Dusty and Frank would become the darlings of MTV? That exposure catapulted this album to incredible heights and selling more than 11 million copies…ten times more than any of their other releases. A year and a half after its release, Eliminator was still in the top 10, at #10.

9. 1984 – Van Halen

Van Halen’s sixth album was the first to be recorded at Eddie Van Halen’s home studio, 5150.  While it was a huge success, selling over 10 million copies, it never hit #1, thanks to an album called Thriller.  On November 10, 1984, 1984 the album was #9.

8. Midnight Madness – Night Ranger

The biggest album Night Ranger ever had was this one, Midnight Madness, which peaked here at #8 and also gave them their biggest selling song, “Sister Christian.”

7. Stay Hungry – Twisted Sister

Originally formed in Bergen County, New Jersey in 1972, Twisted Sister broke through with this album, Stay Hungry, and a U.S. tour where Metallica were their opening act!  On November 10, 1984, the album was at #7.

6. Out Of The Cellar – Ratt

After their independent EP sold over 100,000 copies in the L.A. area alone, Ratt were scooped up by Atlantic Records and released their biggest album, their debut called Out Of The Cellar.  The album is #6 on the countdown this week, and the video for “Round And Round” features an appearance by the band manager’s uncle Miltie, who happened to be comedian Milton Berle!

5. The Unforgettable Fire – U2

It was on this album that U2 began a decade-long working relationship with Brian Eno and Daniel Lanois, who would shape U2’s sound in exciting new ways.  Recorded at Slane Castle in the Boyne Valley of Ireland, The Unforgettable Fire peaked here at #5 on November 10, 1984.

4. Eddie And the Cruisers – Original Motion Picture Soundtrack

While the movie wasn’t exactly a box office smash, it grew in popularity due to multiple showings on cable, the soundtrack album for Eddie And The Cruisers was a hit, due in large part to the very Bruce Springsteen-sounding “On the Dark Side” by John Cafferty And The Beaver Brown Band.  It peaked at #4 on November 10, 1984.

3. Heartbeat City – The Cars

The Cars scored both a hit album with Heartbeat City and an MTV Video Music Award for video of the year for this song, “You Might Think.”  Heartbeat City is the #3 rock album on this week’s countdown.

2. Sports – Huey Lewis And The News

This album was the breakthrough for Huey Lewis And the News.  Well written songs and lots of video play on MTV took Sports to #1 and 7 million copies sold.  It drops one to #2 on November 10, 1984.

1. Born In the USA – Bruce Springsteen

At the top of the charts this week is the crown jewel of this legendary singer/songwriter’s recorded career.  It was his seventh album and turned him into an international superstar, and selling over 30 million copies worldwide, one of the biggest sellers ever!  #1 on November 10, 1984 was Born In The USA by Bruce Springsteen!

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Owner Tracy N has been in business for 6 1/2 years and, although she and her team serve delicious and locally sourced food, they are not just a restaurant, they are very involved with the community.

As Tracy says, “we donate to any local organization that walks through our front door.” They hold ‘Dine and Donates’ for local organizations like the fire house, local schools, dog rescues and churches. They also have an art wall where they host local artists and local musicians each month. For four-legged customers, The Green Fork And Local Roots Market even has a doggie menu where people can bring in their fur babies and dine with them outside. Tracy also says, “I am lucky that I really do have a great staff!”

Congratulations to Tracy and her staff at The Green Fork And Local Roots Market in North Wales, PA! You’re our MGK/Comcast Small Business Of The Week!

Are you a small business owner who would liked to be spotlighted on our Small Business Salute? Let us know! Click here and tell us all about your business. What makes it special? How are you making a difference in your community? Each week, we’ll reveal another deserving choice in our MGK/Comcast Small Business Salute.

Presented by Comcast Business.

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That’s my friend, and serious Beatles collector, Charlie Leonard holding up his LP set that he purchased over the weekend at the Target on Roosevelt Boulevard and Haldeman Avenue in Northeast Philadelphia. This misprint version is being sold at all Target stores that sell vinyl. It’s also been reported that the “REVOLER” version is being sold as a bundle on Amazon, though I’ve not gotten confirmation from anyone who actually purchased one from them.

While your first instinct might be to think, “jeez, who does quality control over there at Apple? Is anyone paying attention?”, this glaring error doesn’t surprise me one bit. There have been typos, misspellings and erroneous bits of information released on Beatles albums and singles (solo and together) ever since the group started. On their very first promo single in the UK, “Love Me Do,” the songwriters are listed as “Lennon & McArtney” – not a good start!

In fact, below you will see many examples of mistakes made on Beatles and Beatles solo releases over the years. It’s truly remarkable that this happens so frequently.

The question now becomes, will this misspelled version of the album become a valuable collector’s item? It all depends on how many more of these are pressed with the correct spelling. If sales of this errored set peak early, and there isn’t a second run of sets pressed, then this misprint version won’t be any more valuable than it would have been if it were spelled correctly. If collector’s scoop all of these up, and control how many are out there, that could raise the price somewhat. I’m definitely monitoring eBay to see if any of these sets are showing up for an inflated price.

Of course, the cynic in me also wonders if this is a clever marketing move so collectors buy multiple copies of the same album. I doubt it, though, as it wouldn’t be worth it to make a nice package look bad just to sell a few extra copies.

Regardless, if you’re the kind of music fan who likes to collect anomalies, this is right up your alley!

Thanks to my pal Charlie Leonard for his assistance with this article.

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From their very first single, “Love Me Do,” which had the songwriter co-credit listed as “McArtney,” to this latest gaffe, misspelling “REVOLVER” as “REVOLER” on some LP bundles of the 2022 reissue, there’s been a long history of Beatles 45s, album, CDs and cassettes having mistakes on them. Some are relatively common, amazingly, and don’t necessarily fetch a whole lot of dough. Others, however, can net huge cash. If you have any Beatles vinyl in your collection, take a look at the mistakes below and see if you’re in possession of one of these gems. You might have a Beatles album mistake that could net you a bit of cash! An extremely rare copy of The “Love Me Do” with the misspelled “McArtney” sold in 2017 for almost $15,000!

Most of these pieces shown below are taken from the collection of my friend and fellow collector, Charlie Leonard, and several are from my collection. How some of these made it past the record label’s quality control department is a mystery to me! Then again, that’s what makes record collecting so much fun for me – finding gems out there that may or may not be worth a lot monetarily, but have interesting or sentimental value.

Below are some more examples of mistakes, omissions and errors on Beatles records. It’s a partial list as, sadly, there are many more out there. Check your collection – you may have one of these hiding amidst your vinyl or CDs!

1. Revolver Title Misspelling

Just out this past October, some copies of the Target-exclusive vinyl LP bundle of the album, with t-shirt included, got the name of the album wrong on the spine of the outer box. Really?? Some reports also have the similar Amazon bundle suffering from the same fate, but I’ve yet to hear of anyone who has gotten such an item from them.

2. Please Please Me U.S. 45 Error

Promo and first U.S. pressings of the Vee Jay Records single have them listed as “The Beattles.”  Usually sells in the $2000-$6000 range, depending on condition, so finding one “in the wild” would be quite a feat.

3. Capitol Albums Volume 2 First CD Pressing

Imagine my shock when I put on the mono mixes of Rubber Soul and Help! and heard that they weren’t the right mixes at all; they were the stereo mixes “folded down” into mono.  I happened to be the first person to notice this major faux pas and immediately contacted the record company.  They reissued the set with the correct mixes but, even today, it’s hard to tell which set is more collectible.

4. White Album Bungalow Bill LP Omission/Ob-La-Di Misspelling

You can tell if you have a U.S. first pressing of The Beatles’ White Album by all the mistakes! There are a half dozen on the White Album alone and this is one of them. They forgot “The Continuing Story Of..” part! Also missing are the hyphens in “Ob-La-Di Ob-La-Da.” You can pick up a fairly beaten up copy of this for under $50, but a nice copy with the inserts will run you higher.

5. Yesterday Runtime Error On “20 Greatest Hits” LP

Charlie Leonard Collection. Used with permission.

They were only a minute off on the run time of “Yesterday!”  Someone got to typing too fast and, there you go, instant collectible.  This was from the Beatles compilation album 20 Greatest Hits that was released in time for the 1982 Christmas season in the U.S.  This particular album has yet to be released on CD, and the vinyl can be found for a very reasonable price in the $25-$35 range.

6. Rocky Raccoon Misspelling On The White Album

Another of the errors that are all over first U.S. pressings of The Beatles is a “c” missing in “Rocky Raccoon.”  Notice also there is no question mark after “Why Don’t We Do It In the Road?” either. Other mistakes on some first pressings of The White Album include the titles “Obladi Oblada” instead of “Ob-La-Di Ob-La-Da,” “Revolution No. 1” rather than “Revolution 1,” and “Revolution No. 9” in place of “Revolution 9.”

7. Tell Me Why Misprint on A Hard Day’s Night Soundtrack Album

This one’s great because it appeared for YEARS on several different pressing runs of the movie’s soundtrack album, released on United Artists Records. “Tell Me Why” is called “Tell Me Who” on some pressings! And that’s not all..

8. I’ll Cry Instead Misprint on A Hard Day’s Night Soundtrack Album

Charlie Leonard Collection. Used with permission.

On some pressings of that same album, where the “Tell Me Why” is correct, “I’ll Cry Instead” is shortened to “I Cry Instead.”  Mint copies of this could cost you just over $100. I know some hardcore collectors who have to have every one of these pressing variations!

9. Helter Skelter Incorrect Liner Notes on Beatles “Rarities”

Charlie Leonard Collection. Used with permission.

It’s Ringo Starr yelling out “I’ve got blisters on my fingers” at the end of “Helter Skelter,” but, on certain first pressings of the 1980 compilation The Beatles Rarities, the liner notes on the back cover credit John.  Later pressings omit John’s name but still doesn’t credit Ringo!  This is another Beatles compilation that has yet to see a CD release, and either vinyl version goes for $35 to around $50.

10. Uncle Albert Typo On Apple 45 Label

Charlie Leonard Collection. Used with permission.

Who’s this producer named “Pual” McCartney?  This one is found on the hit single’s b-side “Too Many People” on some Jacksonville pressings of Paul’s first #1 solo single from 1971. Interesting that the b-side doesn’t have the sliced Apple label, which could be another mistake.

11. Typo on back cover of “The Beatles Live At The BBC” CD

Charlie Leonard Collection. Used with permission.

Take a look at disc 2, track 17 of the back cover of this CD copy of The Beatles Live At The BBC.  It’s supposed to be called “So How Come (Nobody Loves Me).”  Where the “Top” at the beginning of the title comes from is anyone’s guess!

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10. Distant Light – The Hollies

Allan Clarke of the Hollies said he wrote this song “in about five minutes”, and it was a big hit for the band. “Long Cool Woman In A Black Dress” comes from Distant Light, the #10 rock album on this week’s countdown.

9. Thick As A Brick – Jethro Tull

One band, with one album, that featured just one track..and it was over 43 minutes long. Jethro Tull’s Thick As A Brick wasn’t a concept album but, rather, a parody on them, after his last album Aqualung was termed a concept work by critics. Parody or not, the music was wonderful and, after hitting #1, it dropped to #9 on November 3, 1972.

8. School’s Out – Alice Cooper

All five members of the Alice Cooper Band got songwriting credits on their iconic summer song, “School’s Out.” It’s the title track from this week’s #8 rock album on MGK’s Thursday Top 10 Countdown.

7. Toulouse Street – The Doobie Brothers

Named after a street just off the French Quarter in New Orleans, Toulouse Street was the breakthrough album for The Doobie Brothers, largely due to this song, “Listen To The Music.” This was also the first Doobies album to feature two drummers! The album peaked here at #7 on November 3, 1972.

6. Demons And Wizards – Uriah Heep

Formed in London in 1969, Uriah Heep are still together playing shows all over the UK. They were quite popular over there, and had one hit song in the U.S., this track called “Easy Livin’.” It’s off of the #6 rock album on the countdown this week, Demons And Wizards.

5. Trilogy – Emerson, Lake And Palmer

In early 1972, the British music publication NME reported that Emerson, Lake and Palmer were on the verge of breaking up. That couldn’t have been further from the truth, as the band had just completed their third studio album, Trilogy. While there was no impending breakup, Greg Lake did say in an interview how difficult the album was to make from a technical perspective. Difficult, maybe, but technically and musically, this album is outstanding and was #5 on November 3, 1972.

4. Honky Chateau – Elton John

Honky Chateau was the name Elton John gave to both his fifth studio album, and the place where it was recorded. It was made in the south of France at an 18th century mansion called Château d’Hérouville. It was the first of three albums Elton and the band would make there, including their masterpiece Goodbye Yellow Brick Road, and it was the first of SIX number one U.S. albums in a row for Elton. On this week’s Thursday Top Ten Countdown, it’s #4.

3. Chicago V – Chicago

Recorded in just 10 days, Chicago V by Chicago was the group’s first album to top the charts. After doing so, it slips to to #3 on November 3, 1972.

2. Never A Dull Moment – Rod Stewart

Rod Stewart capitalized on the succcess of his breakthrough album, Every Picture Tells A Story with a followup album that featured virtually the same lineup of musicians, including his Faces bandmates! At #2 on this week’s Thursday Top 10 Countdown is Never A Dull Moment.

1. Days Of Future Passed – The Moody Blues

At the top of the chart this week is the second album by this wildly popular British band. Amazingly, it took five years for the album to hit #1, thanks to steady play on FM radio of several of the album’s mystical tracks. The #1 rock album on November 3, 1972 was Days Of Future Passed by The Moody Blues.

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Radnor residents and proprietors Jennifer and Robert Saionz left the corporate world in 1991 to open their pizza shop in the heart of Wayne, PA. Not only is Main Line Pizza known for their award-winning pizza, cheesesteaks and fresh-roasted turkey, but they are also recognized for their service to the community. They’ve worked with and supported local schools, sports teams, churches, synagogues and many local businesses, and they’ve generously given their time and resources to Radnor ABC House and Wayne Food Pantry.

Like many local businesses throughout 2020, Main Line Pizza was also affected by the pandemic, when most businesses and office buildings scaled back or shut down completely. They didn’t miss a beat, continuing to serve local residents who were working from home. This exemplifies what it means to serve your community in time of need.

Next year, Main Line Pizza will be celebrating their 30th year of service in Wayne and surrounding communities, and they’re a perfect choice for our Small Business Salute.

FULL DISCLOSURE: While I do not choose the winner of each week’s Small Business salute recipients, I am a regular customer of Main Line Pizza and can tell you their pizza is the absolute best on the Main Line!!

If you’d like to submit your business for the Small Business Salute, let us know! Click here and tell us about your business. What makes it special? How are you making a difference in your community? Each week, we’ll reveal another deserving choice in our MGK/Comcast Small Business Salute.

Presented by Comcast Business.

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Billed as an “immersive accompaniment” to the 2021 Peter Jackson-directed “Get Back” documentary, “The Beatles: Get Back To Let It Be” exhibit is presented with the full cooperation of Apple, as well as Paul McCartney, Ringo Starr, the estates of John Lennon and George Harrison, and session producer Glyn Johns.

Among the items displayed at the Rock Hall Beatles exhibit, all seen in the “Get Back” film are:

– Handwritten lyrics to “I’ve Got A Feeling,” “Dig A Pony” and “I Me Mine”

– Linda McCartney and Ethan Russell’s intimate photos from Twickenham, Apple Studio and the Apple rooftop depicting the band at work on the album

– Paul’s black and grey shirt you see him wearing in Apple studio

– John Lennon’s legendary “granny” eyeglasses, Epiphone guitar and jean jacket

– That snazzy pink pinstriped suit George wore at Apple Studio during the sessions

– Glyn Johns personal acetate of his original Get Back album mix, later rejected by The Beatles

In addition to those way cool items, the Hall have set up three screening rooms where you can view videos showing different aspects of the Jackson documentary, all in high def, as well as rare audio from those January, 1969 sessions.

For Beatles fans, this will bring back that incredible weekend in 2021 when we got to see the newly updated “Get Back” documentary! The price is included in the price of admission to the Hall.

Get (back) details here.

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Spoken like a true bandwagon jumper, right?

I’d classify myself as a casual fan. We try to go to a game when we can. My first game, in fact, was in 1970 at the old Connie Mack Stadium, with the Phils playing the Pirates. The Pirates won, but I did get to see Roberto Clemente in person, who had a great game.

I think Woody Fryman was the losing pitcher for the Phils that day. The picture at the top of this article is one I took at a 1972 game my Dad took us to see at Veterans Stadium, just one year into that big stadium’s existence. That’s Jim Fregosi at the plate for the Mets! I can’t remember, or see, who was pitching for the Phils, but I know it wasn’t Lefty.

In this atmosphere, I can’t help but think of those Phillies games, and all the other ones I had the pleasure of seeing over the years. One I remember in particular was the time we were doing a radio station promotion at the Vet. It was on June 11, 1985, and that was the game where the Phillies absolutely decimated the Mets 26-7! Von Hayes hit two homers in the first inning, including a grand slam! It’s hard to forget a game like that.

And now, here we are, the Fightins are doing so well as a club. You cannot help but feel the excitement and positive vibes in the air. People are happier, talking Phillies with one another (imagine that!) and have a collective hope that big things happen for our Phils.

Bandwagon or not, that’s worth it for me. Now LET’S GO PHILS!!

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With over two decades of experience in pest control management, Skyline Property Solutions serves the entire Delaware Valley, and when we say serves, they surely walk the walk. During the early stages of the pandemic, when businesses were temporarily closing left and right, Skyline reached out to those companies experiencing financial hardship as a result, and offered payment plans or, in some cases, complimentary pest control services until things steadied.

Skyline Property Solutions is also very active in the community, participating in the Team Landens Legends for the Eagles Autism Challenge, as well as a charitable organization geared to families of Mummers, the Palandro-Ferry Memorial Foundation.

Not to mention, they also have a very entertaining website!

We salute you, Skyline Property Solutions, our MGK Comcast Small Business of the week!

If you’d like to submit your business for the Small Business Salute, click here and tell us about your business- what makes it special, and how it’s making a difference. Each week, we’ll reveal another deserving choice.

Presented by Comcast Business.

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I hope you’ll join me this Wednesday at 3:00pm as I host The Beatles Revolver:  Unboxed – a one hour commercial-free radio special celebrating the re-release of this groundbreaking album by The Beatles in its new, expanded form.  You’ll get a first listen at both the newly remixed tracks and the outtakes from those sessions, and you’ll hear about the making of the album from John, Paul, George, Ringo, producer George Martin, and engineer Geoff Emerick.

From backwards guitar solos to sped up and slowed down tape, The Beatles pushed songwriting and recording to their limits with the Revolver album.  Every conventional method of recording, playing and singing was tested, then thrown out in favor of new, never-before-tried ideas.  The work The Beatles and George Martin did on Revolver was aided by a young 20 year old engineer named Geoff Emerick, shrewdly hired by George Martin.  Geoff came to the sessions with a fresh set of ears and no preconceived notions on how a recording should be made.  What came out of the Revolver sessions were songs and sounds never before heard on record, and it set the scene for the band’s next work, their masterpiece Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band.

Next to The White Album, Revolver is my second favorite album of all time, and I can’t wait to play some of these incredible tracks from this amazing set for you on Wednesday!

Don’t miss The Beatles Revolver:  Unboxed, your first listen of this incredible new package, this Wednesday (10/26) at 3:00pm, exclusively on Classic Rock 102.9 MGK, wmgk.com, or on our new and improved MGK mobile app!

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10. James Gang Rides Again – James Gang

Joe Walsh’s band BEFORE The Eagles scored their first big hit with this song called, “Funk 49.” It’s taken from the James Gang’s second album, Rides Again.

9. Fire And Water – Free

This is a band that deserves to be in the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame, for this song alone, “All Right Now.”  It’s Free, and their album Fire And Water was #9 on October 20, 1970.

8. Live At Leeds – The Who

The Who’s first live album, and the first of two Who albums to appear on this week’s countdown, was, predictably, a mad affair, full of energy and excitement from the crowd at Leeds University.  Live At Leeds is #9 on this week’s Thursday Top 10 Countdown.

7. Deja Vu – Crosby, Stills, Nash And Young

The debut album by the foursome known as CSNY still stands as their best, and their biggest seller.  Recorded largely separately, Deja Vu peaked at #1 and was still in the top 10 months later.  This week it’s #7.

6. Tommy – The Who

Well over a year after it was first released, The Who’s masterwork Tommy was still selling like crazy.  It was enough to keep it in the top ten for months and, on October 20, 1970, it was still at #6.

5. After The Gold Rush – Neil Young

While CSNY were working on Deja Vu, our #7 rock album on the countdown, Neil Young was moonlighting, putting together his solo album After The Gold Rush.  This wonderful album is the #5 rock album on this week’s Thursday Top 10 Countdown.

4. A Question Of Balance – Moody Blues

While The Moody Blues’ albums were quite intricate and complex from a production and recording standpoint, some of their songs were difficult to pull off live, so they went back to basics with this album called A Question Of Balance and it was a big hit for them.  One its way to peaking at #3, it was #4 on October 20, 1970.

3. Mad Dogs And Englishmen – Joe Cocker

Armed with a group of seasoned session musicians, Joe Cocker went on the road and put on some incredible shows back in 1970.  They were recorded and released as Mad Dogs And Englishmen, the #3 rock album on the countdown this week.

2. Abraxas – Santana

Carlos Santana followed up his stellar debut with another work full of rock, jazz and latin rhythms.  Abraxas was Santana’s first number one album and, on its way there, it stops for a bit at #2 on October 20, 1970.

1. Cosmo’s Factory – Creedence Clearwater Revival

Topping the charts this week is the fifth album by this legendary Bay Area band.  It was their first of two albums they released in 1970, coming on the heels of putting THREE albums out the previous year!  #1 on October 20, 1970 was Cosmo’s Factory by Creedence Clearwater Revival!

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Of course, gone are the days of turntable, cart machines and reel to reel decks

While most DJs would bristle at the thought of tech dudes crawling all over the studio, under the console, and everywhere else, I welcome it. My life is nothing but chaos anyway – why not add to it?? Besides, I’m a tech geek myself so I wanted to get my hands dirty and check this baby out for myself, and see what bugs I could discover or short cuts I could use. I begged them to make the switch during my show but, originally, they decided 9:00am would be the best time. After a few bumps in the road, they moved the start time to 3:00pm, right in the middle of my show. Sweet!

Since all I’d be doing would be getting in the way during their installation of the new system, I thought I’d record the event for posterity, and show what talent, teamwork, and a good about of humor and chop-busting can accomplish. We made the switch, as you’ll see below, and no one listening to MGK noticed a thing. No blip, no upcut, nothing cut off, just a super smooth transition made by Joe and Rob Grusman, another of our talented engineers. To Joe’s credit, he did ask me to take part in the actual transition, but I chickened out. Leave it to the pros.

So a big thank you to Joe B, Don Melnyk, Rodney Byrd, Dan The Man, and all of the other techs, engineers and IT guys who helped make this transition go so well! You guys all rock!

Watch our video here!

The post The Day We Changed Computer Systems During My Show appeared first on 102.9 WMGK.

This week, we are happy to salute the crew at Madhouse Records in Clifton Heights!

Madhouse Records, a full service recording and rehearsal studio, was established by John Boyle right at the start of the pandemic. John and his team of musicians and engineers not only provide recording and rehearsal services at their studio in Clifton Heights, but they also have a mobile recording unit that enables you, or your band, to record almost anywhere you want, even capture one of your live performances. They’re well stocked with a great variety of microphones, outboard gear and many instruments.

What sets Madhouse apart from other recording studios is they offer lessons to budding musicians on any of a variety of instruments. That way, when you’ve mastered your instrument and are ready to lay down a track or two, you’re already there!

Not only did they open their studio at the start of the pandemic, but their original space was wiped out in a flood. They bounced back and are ready to serve the musical community with a beautiful facility. We salute you, Madhouse Records, for continuing to serve your community and for keeping the creation of music alive and well in Clifton Heights. You’re our Comcast Small Business of the week!

If you’d like to submit your business for the Small Business Salute, click here and tell us about your business- what makes it special, and how it’s making a difference. Each week, we’ll reveal another deserving choice.

Presented by Comcast Business.

Comcast Business

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It was truly astonishing, to say the least.

The weather could not have been more perfect, with virtually no wind also a big plus, and our newly-crowned MGK House Band Incognito did us proud by lighting up the stage before and during the burning of the giant guitar.

For me, one of the most enjoyable part of the MGK Big Bad Bonfire is the chance to see and chat with our MGK listening family. I love seeing people who’ve been going for years, or first-timers checking out all there is to see and do, and talking music with them. In the case of this year’s Bonfire, the Phils took up a lot of the conversations!

Speaking of Phillies, I got to the bonfire at 4:45 but couldn’t get out of my car until that 8th inning Harper homer!

Once we got going, though, it was such fun. There’s just something about the vibe of the Bonfire: the flaming fire itself, the people, the Spring Mountain location, and the band. It creates the perfect atmosphere to usher in the fall season and, in the case of this year’s bonfire, a Phils NLCS appearance for the first time in a decade!

So thank you so much for coming by if you were there. I had a ball! And if you missed it, there’s always Big Bad Bonfire 2023!

The post MGK Big Bad Bonfire 2022: Maybe The Most Fun One Yet! appeared first on 102.9 WMGK.

If you’ve celebrated with us in past years, you know what the vibe is like..totally chill, a little festive, lots of fun, our newly-crowned House Band Incognito playing, and the coup de grâce, the giant wooden guitar we’ve set up gets lit on FIRE! The music’s great, the guitar is burning, the smell of fall and wood is in the air – man, I just love it!

Kudos once again to our genius resident artist, Graphics Greg Monahan, for constructing another killer ax for us to burn.

We sure look forward to seeing you celebrate fall’s arrival with us on Spring Mountain today! If you plan to go, here are a few handy tips:

1. Admission and parking are free!

While you can purchase food, drinks and tickets to the haunted woods walk and hayride, it doesn’t cost a cent to come out and enjoy all the action! Parking is free, and it’s just a short shuttle bus ride to the mountain from the parking lot. If you want VIP parking right at the mountain, that will run you $20.

2. Get there early!

Make sure you’re there in plenty of time to park, find your spot to set up your blanket and lawn chair(s) and enjoy all the fun!  The first shuttle to the mountain runs at 4:45pm and the event starts at 5.  At 6:30, our house band Incognito starts rocking the stage, haunted walks and hayrides begin at 7, and John DeBella and the rest of us MGK DJs will set that giant guitar ablaze at 7:35. The event ends at 9:00pm.

3. What’s allowed and what is not..

You are encouraged to bring your blankets and lawn chairs for a relaxing time on the mountain.  No food, drink, or coolers are allowed on the premises but, as I mentioned earlier, there is plenty of food, water, sodas and beer available for purchase. Sorry, but pets are not permitted on the premises.

4. Check the forecast!

Looks like a beautiful early fall night at Spring Mountain for our bonfire this evening.  Temps are forecast to be in the low 60s at the start of the event, and finish in the mid-50s.  Might want to bring a sweater or light jacket just in case.

5. Take pictures and videos and tag @WMGK!

We LOVE seeing your photos and videos on social media!  Tag @WMGK on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram and we’ll repost some of the best shots we’ve seen!

The post Big Bad Bonfire : 5 Things To Know Before You Go appeared first on 102.9 WMGK.

10. 5150 – Van Halen

Van Halen’s 5150 wasn’t only their first album with Sammy Hagar, it was also their first of four #1 albums! Amazing they never hit the top with Diamond Dave. after peaking at the top spot, on its way to selling more than 6 million copies, it hangs in at #10. Today (10/13) is Sammy’s Birthday!

9. Tuff Enuff – Fabulous Thunderbirds

Stevie Ray’s older brother Jimmy Vaughan also had a hit with his band, The Fabulous Thunderbirds.  It was “Tuff Enuff,” the title track from this week’s #9 rock album.

8. Riptide – Robert Palmer

Chaka Khan was supposed to sing with Robert Palmer on this track, but her record company intervened.  Despite that, she still did the vocal arrangement on “Addicted To Love.”  It’s from Riptide, the #8 rock album on October 13, 1986.

7. So – Peter Gabriel

Peter Gabriel’s biggest album of his career was this, his fifth studio work called So.  It peaked at #2 over the summer of ’86 and was still firmly in the top 10 on October 13, 1986, at #7.

6. Night Songs – Cinderella

It took just two weeks for this next album to go double platinum, or more than 2 million copies sold.  It was the debut by our favorite metal band from Clifton Heights, Cinderella. Night Songs is #6 on the countdown.

5. Invisible Touch – Genesis

Genesis landed their one and only #1 single in the U.S. with this, the title track from the #5 rock album on MGK’s Thursday Top 10 Countdown, Invisible Touch.

4. Back In The Highlife – Steve Winwood

Like the Genesis song above, this next song was the lone chart-topping single for Steve Winwood.  Featuring Chaka Khan, who we chatted about with album #8, this is “Higher Love” from Back In The Highlife, the #4 rock album on October 13, 1986.

3. The Bridge – Billy Joel

Although Billy Joel has described The Bridge as “not a happy album” to make, it nevertheless gave him another top 10 chart appearance, peaking here at #3.  The opening track was “A Matter Of Trust.”

2. Slippery When Wet – Bon Jovi

I still love that fact that, with some album covers costing thousands and thousands of dollars to set up, this next one must have run Bon Jovi about 20 bucks.  After their record company turned down the first attempt at the cover for Slippery When Wet, they basically wrote the words on a wet black trash bag and took the picture!  A picture that adorned 10 million copies of the album, which is #2 on this week’s countdown.

1. Fore! – Huey Lewis And The News

Topping the chart this week is the fourth (“FORE!”) album by the bay area band Huey Lewis And The News.  The album was huge for them, generating three hit singles, selling over 3 million copies and hitting #1 for just one week.

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Nowadays, practically every song released is virtually PERFECT.  Artists and producers spend hours and hours re-recording and editing every flaw out of a recording.  Back in the 60s and 70s, though, time and technology restraints sometimes meant mistakes and odd noises remained on some of our favorite songs.  Here is a sampling of a few I’ve come across over the years. Listen at your peril, though, as you may never hear these songs the same way again!

1. Born To Be Wild – Steppenwolf

Bassist Rushton Moreve gets temporarily lost at 2:30 but recovers quickly!

2. Everybody Wants Some – Van Halen

Diamond Dave comes in two bars early with the line “I like the way the line runs up and down those stockings..”  He gets out “I like..” before realizing he jumped in too quickly.  Hear it at 3:35.

3. Good Vibrations – Beach Boys

At 1:11, I swear the tambourine player (Hal Blaine) missed a hit and came in too late!

4. The Jean Genie – David Bowie

Trevor Bolder is a maniac on this track!  He hits the chorus bass lick a bar early at :47, gets totally lost at 3:16, and recovers back in the pocket by 3:18.

5. I Saw Her Again – The Mamas And The Papas

There’s debate on whether this is a mistake or a clever mixing move, but I think they jumped the gun singing “I saw her…I saw her again..” at 2:15.

6. Kansas City – Wilbert Harrison

One of my all-time faves, and the bass player gets temporarily lost right at the end of the song. You’ll hear it at 2:13.

7. You’re Only Human (Second Wind) – Billy Joel

Billy hesitated on the line, “s-s-s-sometimes that’s what it takes” at 3:55. Legend was his then-wife Christie Brinkley and Paul Simon (who happened to be visiting the studio) suggested he leave it in.

8. Roxanne – The Police

:05 in to the song, Sting accidentally sat on a studio piano, then laughs about it!

9. Teacher – Jethro Tull

Listen at 1:32, after the line “who’d found fun instead of me” for a drum stick click!

10. Hold On, I’m Coming – Sam And Dave

The horn players stop mid-chorus, thinking it ended, but realize their mistake and pick back up.  They drop for two bars at 1:03 but are back by 1:08.

11. Here Today – Beach Boys

The Beach Boys do have some talking and extraneous sounds in some of their songs  Here, from 1:55 – 2:03, a conversation about cameras is going on in the background during the instrumental break, before you hear Brian ask the engineer to rewind the tape to the beginning of that part of the song: “Top, please!”

12. Do It Again – Steely Dan

They are known as perfectionists in the studio but, on their debut album, there’s definitely a Walter Becker bass clunker at 2:27.

13. Bang A Gong (Get It On) – T. Rex

Background singers Flo And Eddie of The Turtles sing one too many ‘Get It On’s at 3:19!

14. Louie Louie – Kingsmen

The lead vocalist hesitates just after the break, but the drummer covers nicely with a clutch fill at 1:57!

15. All My Love – Led Zeppelin

The usually flawless John Paul Jones makes not one, but TWO, keyboard gaffes in the same solo!  Listen for him hitting two keys at once, at 2:36, and again at 2:50.

The post 15 Weird Mistakes, Words and Sounds In Classic Songs appeared first on 102.9 WMGK.

10. Toys In The Attic – Aerosmith

The biggest-selling album Aerosmith has ever had was this one, and on its way to selling over 9 million copies, Toys In The Attic is #10, over 6 months after it was released.

9. Hearts – America

The band America saw fit to name six of their first seven albums one word titles starting with the letter ‘H.’ The fourth in the series was Hearts, another George Martin production, and the #9 rock album on October 6, 1975.

8. Desolation Boulevard – The Sweet

The third album by glam rock superstars The Sweet had a totally different lineup in the UK than it did in the US and Canada.  The US version added two singles, one of which was their biggest hit, “Ballroom Blitz.”  Desolation Boulevard is the #8 rock album on the countdown this week.

7. Young Americans – David Bowie

Recorded partly here in Philadelphia, at the legendary Sigma Sound Studios, Bowie’s funkiest album was the #7 rock album in the country on October 6, 1975.

6. Captain Fantastic And The Brown Dirt Cowboy – Elton John

The first album in rock history to debut at #1 was this one, Elton John’s ninth release, Captain Fantastic And The Brown Dirt Cowboy.  After spending some quality time at the top spot, it drops to #6 this week.

5. Fleetwood Mac – Fleetwood Mac

Fleetwood Mac’s self-titled album, the one before Rumours, took over a year from the time it first hit the charts until it reached #1.  On its way to that slow, steady climb, it was #5 on October 6, 1975.

4. Red Octopus – Jefferson Starship

After 8 years and 8 albums under two different names, Jefferson Starship finally got their #1 album, and it was this one, their only one to nab the top spot, Red Octopus.  After doing so, it drops three to #4 on this week’s countdown.

3. Born To Run – Bruce Springsteen

Bruce Springsteen’s crown jewel was only in its fourth week on the charts.  In another two weeks, his image would grace the cover of both Time and Newsweek magazines, and a legend was born.  Born To Run already was #4 on 10/6/75.

2. One Of These Nights – Eagles

Eagles scored their first of four #1 albums in a row with this, their fourth album which, like Bowie’s Young Americans, was influenced by the Philadelphia R&B music scene.  One Of These Nights slips one position to #2 on October 6, 1975.

1. Wish You Were Here – Pink Floyd

Following up a masterpiece isn’t easy, but Pink Floyd pulled it off, with another adventurous album full of cynicism for the music business, and love for their former fallen bandmate.  Though the album received mixed reviews from rock critics, the fans loved it, and it became another of the band’s beloved works.  #1 on October 6, 1975 was Wish You Were Here by Pink Floyd.

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This week we are happy to salute the good people at Bridgewater Jewelers in New Castle, Delaware!

Talk about a thriving business! According to fifth generation proprietor Mary Lenhoff, Bridgewater Jewelers is currently the oldest family-owned and operated jewelry store in the country, going back to 1883, and their building is also one of the oldest in New Castle. That is quite a lot of happy customers served over the years. Mary says the keys to their success are their fair prices, and connection to their customers. To Mary, Bridgewater Jewelers’ customers are like family.

Congratulations to Mary Lenoff and Bridgewater Jewelers of New Castle, Delaware…… MGK’s Comcast Small Business Salute of the week!

If you’d like to submit your business for the Small Business Salute, click here and tell us about your business- what makes it special, and how it’s making a difference. Each week, we’ll reveal another deserving choice.

Presented by Comcast Business.

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Each of the songs listed below has actually been released. Simply pop one of these, eh, interesting, pieces of music on, and your unwanted guest(s) may be reaching for their coat and car keys before you know it. I must note that I personally do not dislike many of these works. I just say it’s a good bet many won’t share my enthusiasm for any of them and, in your case, “get the hint.” Good luck!

10. !aH aH ,yawA eM ekaT oT gnimoC re’yehT – Napolean XIV

The title is not some computer glitch. The a-side of this single was a big novelty hit for a Philly native named Jerry Samuels, and was practically a weekly fixture on the Dr. Demento Show! Likely to go along with the wacky theme, the b-side was the same as the a-side, but entirely backwards. It should prove to be an effective guest-clearer, most likely before the 2:10 of the song.

9. Noise Jam (end of Want You Baby) – The Plasmatics

It’s very important that you obtain the proper disc so you make sure to get this, uh, “song.” It appears on the band’s first independent EP, “Meet The Plasmatics” and, while the first part of the song, “Want You Baby,” has come out on other albums of theirs, it’s the Jam you want at the end. Apparently, the band were each placed in separate rooms of the recording studio, then asked to play whatever they wanted, not knowing what the others were playing. Then the song was mixed together. An absolute train wreck? Without question. Your guests might actually run screaming out of your house after a few moments of this. It’s so hard to find, I couldn’t even get a youtube clip of it, but I did include the first part here.

FUN FACT – I saw The Plasmatics at the old Ripley Music Hall on South Street back in 1983. WOW, is all I can say.

8. Root Of An Unfocus – John Cage

Cage was known for his groundbreaking, unique musical style, not able to be categorized at all.  For example, his piece, 4’33, is 4 minutes and 33 seconds of total silence.  In this song, however, there are sounds, and I suggest turning it up loudly so the soft parts sound normal, and the occasional loud bursts of sound will, well, get the job done.

7. Frownland – Captain Beefheart & His Magic Band

Only Frank Zappa could have seen potential in Captain Beefheart, as he signed the quirky singer/songwriter to his Straight record label.  Considering Zappa also signed Wild Man Fischer to his label, it kind of makes sense.  Right out of the gate, these songs are different.  Very different.  There are a few tracks on Beefheart’s Trout Mask Replica could be contenders for this list, but a few of them have titles that aren’t exactly appropriate for all viewers.  I, instead, give you the opening track from the album, and it won’t be long before your unwanted guest checks their watch and begins that slow, deliberate walk to the door!

6. Paralyzed – The Legendary Stardust Cowboy

The Legendary Stardust Cowboys reportedly could play a numbers of instruments…none of them well.  Here’s the thing, if the vocals don’t drive your unwanted guest quickly our of your dwelling, wait for the horn ‘solo’ and they’ll check out before the song ends.  Amazingly, legendary musician/producer T. Bone Burnett plays the drums on this song!

5. D.O.A. – Bloodrock

It’s not necessarily the music, which is quite cool and spooky, but the lyrics that will have partygoers cringing before slowly walking backwards out your door.  You see this song on many “more morbid songs ever made” lists, due to its overly graphic account of an airplane crash victim, told in the first person (!!).  Bloodrock were a Texas band produced by Terry Knight, who also produced Grand Funk Railroad’s first few albums.

4. Burst Synapse – Full Of Hell

Don’t be fooled that this little ditty is only 1 minute long.  You won’t need more than about :06 to most likely achieve the desired effect of watching your overstaying guest beat feet out the door!  I say ‘most likely’ because our Digital Program Director Sara Parker, a card-carrying metalhead, loves this and this band. She will not leave if at your home, and this comes on.

3. Das Boat – The Fall

This one will gently creep up on your guest.  At first, they’ll wonder what this strange melody is.  Then, after, a few minutes of the same droning, irritating vibe, they’ll realize they have to leave.  Now.  The band, The Fall, put out more than 25 albums throughout their career, but this is the track that caught some people’s attention, for the wrong reason.

2. Woodpecker No. 1 – Merzbow

Merzbow is the name used by a Japanese fella named Masami Akita.  He’s part of the very interesting vegan, animal activist hardcore punk scene.  While I’m sure some of his work has some semblance of melodic structure and rhythm, this one does not appear to, at least to my ears.  The YouTube comments are priceless on this, by the way.

**NOTE – people with photosensitive epilepsy should use extreme caution if viewing this video**

1. Metal Machine Music – Lou Reed

May I present the granddaddy of all room-clearers, an album I would have to say is the definition of unlistenable.  Not only will your unwanted guest immediately make a bee-line for the nearest door or window of your home, they may not ever speak to you again.  This double album, yes DOUBLE ALBUM, was released on RCA Records by the legendary singer/songwriter/Velvet Underground member Lou Reed in 1975, and it contains nothing more than noises generated, sped up, slowed down and manipulated in the studio, all done by Lou.  For about an hour.  Try as I have, I’ve only made it about 12 minutes in before I consider root canal without novocaine as a better option.  I can only imagine the meeting in the RCA board room when Reed first played this for executives.  It was rumored to be nothing more than a legal obligation Reed had to make with RCA, as he owed them two more albums on his contract.  Whatever the reason, this album is famous only because of how truly unlistenable it is.  If anyone tells you they love this album, they’re lying.

The post 10 Songs That Will Get Rid Of Those Guests Who Won’t Leave appeared first on 102.9 WMGK.

To celebrate this incredible milestone, they’re holding their first ever Habitat Day Of Giving on Monday October 3rd, with the goal or raising $100,000 in 24 hours, to assist in the building and repairing of the next 1,000 homes in Philadelphia! Your kind donations will go even further on that day, with additional matching pledges promised from some generous members of the Habitat Philly family:

Laying The Foundation Challenge
When they reach $5,000, it will unlock an additional $5,000 from Robert E. Morris.

Jimmy Carter Challenge
Former President Carter, Habitat’s most famous champion, will turn 98 tomorrow (Saturday October 1)! In his honor, the first 98 donors who make a gift on Habitat Day of Giving will unlock a $10,000 gift from Ken Krieg.

Mill Creek Halfway There Challenge
When they reach the $50,000 threshold, it will unlock an additional $15,000 gift from their partners at Mill Creek Capital Advisors.

Habitat Family Challenge

When 200 members of the Habitat family make a gift on Monday’s Day Of Giving, it will unlock a $25,000 challenge gift from the Farber Family Foundation.

As you see, you donation can really go a long way to help Habitat Philly achieve their goal. Every single time we ask, our MGK family steps up and pitches in to help the less fortunate, so we hope you’ll consider donating to Habitat Philly’s first-ever “Day Of Giving,” this Monday, October 3. Here are more details about this wonderful event:

To make a donation on Monday, click here.

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