Monday 27 June 2011

30 Years of Beauty and the Beat



This July marks the 30th anniversary release of the Go-Go's debut album Beauty and the Beat.  The album marked the first AND only time an all female band who wrote their own songs reached #1 in the US.  Although it is a great achievement for the band, it sadly demonstrates that few other female bands have had similar successes.  By no means should it be suggested that the Go-Go's were a novelty.  A potent sum of more than pretty parts. The pop sensibilities of songwriters Charlotte Caffey, Jane Weidlin and Kathy Valentine are the hook.  Belinda Carlisle is the siren, and drummer Gina Shock is the secret assault weapon. 

It's the lack of success of other band that's always bothered me.  Some came before (Girl School, Runaways), many came afterward (Bangles, The Donnas) but, 30 years later, none of have beat the Beat.  Why?

Saturday 18 June 2011

RIP - The "Big Man" Clarence Clemons

The heart and soul of the E Street band silenced at the age of 69.  I can't think of better video tribute than this live version of Rosalita.


This little goof ball of song hit #18 on Billboard's Hot 100 in 1985.  Where is Darryl Hannah these days ?  She's due for a comeback.

Tuesday 14 June 2011

Lost Hit : Missing Persons - Words (1982)

Check out Missing Persons out at the 1983 US Festival.  Watching lead singer Dale Bozzio, I can't help but think of a current eccentric female pop star.

Thursday 9 June 2011

Want To Hang Out With Ram Jam ?

Everything You Ever Wanted To Know About...

Ram Jam can be summed up in this gem of a performance video of their only hit Black Betty.  It's a cover of a Lead Belly song  from the thirties.  Oddly enough the NAACP tried to get Ram Jam's version banned based on the lyrics.
Whatever the case, are these the type of people Mom warned you not to hang out with?