the Rock Report

Hip–hop.  Rap.  To many, the sound conjures up images of street thugs, crime and illicit drugs. 

But what, exactly, is this phenomenon all about?  It’s the new “bonga-bonga” music that sends parents into a frenzy, thinking that their kids are going to be “infected” by it and turn into juvenile delinquents.

Ummm … pardon me, but … didn’t we hear something like that from our parents, so many years ago?  A group of rowdy, musical kids calling themselves beetles or something was going to be the ruination of us all!  Our folks had surely lost us to the grasp of the devil himself!

But wait a minute.  Is this really something all that new??  I mean, back-in-the-day, we had guys like Ray Stevens rapping in something called Gitarzan, and, before that, there was Sheb Wooley’s That’s My Pa.  Okay, maybe it was pretty much a country thing — this “spoken-word song” — for awhile, but, as far as the style goes, it’s not so new after all.

So let’s move on to the turntable mix.  Simple, yes … but, then again, some kids in Liverpool took simple items like washboards, tea chests (they made basses from them), guitars and kazoos to play something called skiffle.  CCR has the best description of that “Down On The Corner” music of any song.  And as far as the synthetic loops used to make the background: it comes from the day when they didn’t have the money to pay for big backup, so they had to turn to what was available … and economic.  Our generation would’ve done the same, had it been handy back then. (However, I believe it has been overdone a bit — especially with stars who now can afford more …)

Now … the lyrics.  Of course, this is the sore point for most parents.  When you look at what many of these singers had to go through as they were growing up (poverty, prejudice, domestic violence), you can see they needed an outlet for their emotions.  Since actual thugging (criminal behavior) had serious legal consequences, they put it all in their music. 

People, we can’t say it ain’t true.  What’d we do in the late Sixties, with the ‘Nam, race riots, and inequality?  We took it to the streets, and the Establishment would haul us into cells.  So guys like Country Joe and the Fish, Electric Flag and others put this angst in their music. 

Of course, like in our time, there were some that let that anger out in a hostile way beyond the stage and studios.  That, however, is the exception, when you look at the performers in the genre as a whole.

More on this in the next blog …

CHECKIN’ IN WITH THE SKIN

Over the years, we’ve seen thousands of skin care products come on the market. We’ve had creams, themes and schemes that maybe work, maybe don’t — and it’s all because we want our bodies to be youthful, clean-looking and soft-feeling.
But there’s one site that offers the absolute best choice of products that’ll help you look youthful again! And, naturally, if you look that way, you’ll begin to feel it. But Lavandou Skin Care does more than just “sell” you something; they give you personalized attention, so you can find exactly what you need for your skin type. They’ll help you build a regimen that’ll work for you.
Wait … I said “choices,” right? Well, check out these lines: Jan Marini skin care products, Jane Iredale Mineral Cosmetics, Sothys and Yonka Paris … and they have more! And, guys, in case you’re wondering, they do have some dynamite stuff for us (don’t worry … it’s masculine, okay?).
And, listen — they even offer free samples! Free gifts! Free shipping! So how could you ever go wrong?
Click on the following link for the best in skin care products today … and start enjoying a more youthful tomorrow! You’ll be so glad you did!

Well, that’s it for this post. Remember, in our next one, we’ll continue the study into hip-hop, and why it’s gotten a bad rap. So, until then …
Keep your eyes on the skies, your feet on the ground, your heart with the music … and I’ll see ya on the flip side!

They were just four moptop lads from Liverpool, making some rock-n-roll with their guitars, drums and a lot of hair-shaking, huh?
Maybe there’s more to The Beatles than we thought! Recently, studies have been done that show the Fab Four’s early rockers are excellent remedies for non-clinical depression.
Here’s what they found:
Whenever someone is feeling down and out-of-sorts — maybe due to a job loss, broken relationship, misunderstanding or just the everyday “blahs,” listening to rockers like Please, Please Me, Little Child, A Hard Day’s Night, Back In The USSR and others help to release the endorphins necessary to relieve the stress and negativity within.
What are the triggers? Largely, repeated phrases or lyrics, a specific and steady rhythm guitar, vocal tone (especially, for some reason, John Lennon as opposed to the others), consistent song speed (4/4 is better than 2/8 or fragmented) and, of course, liveliness of the tune.
Of course, the volume with which these are heard, and their frequency are of importance. Usually, listening to them first in the morning, then at the pinpoint times of 11, 2, 7 and 11 (according to some psychologists, these are the times when emotions become more intense), can be of tremendous help. Of course, if you’re feeling consistently down, it’s best to consult your doctor, as there could be a physical or chemical problem behind it.
This is just to help out a bit. The Beatles — thirty-seven years after their split — breaking new ground.
Imagine.

DOLLYWOOD&#8482 AND BEYOND

Okay … you’ve heard about it on the radio, and maybe even seen a few ads about it in your local newspapers. But now you get the chance to visit the best of Southern hospitality yourself in a place called Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. Of course, the main focus has been on the music-and-amusement park, but there’s much more to this little area nestled in the scenic Smoky Mountains.
Of course, you’ll want to spend some quality time there, and the best way to take in the sights and sounds of the area (Pigeon Forge, Dollywood, Gatlinburg, The Great Smoky Mountain National Park and more) is to look into Pigeon Forge vacation rentals. These cabins offer 1, 2 and 3-bedrooms of true, luxurious Southern comfort at a price that you can afford!
The Relic’s been there before and, man, I can tell you the area’s not to be missed by anyone! The freshest air on the planet, combined with the friendliest people, nature at its finest (you’ve gotta take in the Smokies during the fall, “when the leaves start a-changin’ “! GORGEOUS!) and so many fun things to do make the rentals a “must” for the visitor! Imagine … sitting on the big wrap-around deck with your early morning coffee while gazing at the majestic Mt. Le Conte (it’s the highest peak in the Smokies). Or, after a long, eventful day at the parks (Dolly’s and Smoky Mtn.), just unwinding in a Jacuzzi tub before supper! These rentals have it all!
So just click on the link up there, make your reservation, pack yer bags and get ready for the ultimate in Southern Sunshine!

Okay … that’s it for this go-round, so, until next time, remember:
Keep your eyes on the skies, your feet on the ground, your heart with the music … and I’ll see ya on the flip side …

You know, everybody who has a site/blog/something-to-say-or-sell on the web wants to make sure they have the best in search engine optimization. Unfortunately, a lot of websiders don’t really know how to get their sites noticed by the engines (here, we’re talking big guns like Google, AOL, Yahoo! and others).
Of course, there are a lot of “companies” out there who say they’ll help you optimize for free! Listen … take the Relic’s word for it: You get what you pay for with these cats: You pay nothing, often you’ll get nothing!

But, if you have enough faith in your product and believe it deserves the top spot on the SE’s; if you think you can really benefit from cost-effective web marketing, then search engine marketing is what you’re looking for! You see, getting a qualified, professional SEO group like US Web to work for you (this is also called “outsourcing”, by the way) guarantees the best possible results.

With up to 80% of the web surfers using a search engine for directions to the top sites in a desired category, it’s vital to get a company that’ll help you get on those engines — and at a decent position! Not only will US Web do that for you (believe me, they have the tools to do it!), but at an easy-to-handle price! Whether your site or business is large or small, they’ll go the extra mile to ensure that your goods and services get the highest listing possible! They have a number of services, all geared to drive prospects to your site (and, folks, they become clients, which means more money for you!).
So check out that link today, and leave it up to them to get your site (and wares) noticed! You’ll be mighty pleased with what they can do for you!

Flashbacks. They’re really an amazing thing. We all have them every once-in-a-blue-moon, and old rockers like yours truly gets a carload of the rascals when a trigger word is mentioned (and I’m not horsing around).
When I talked about Roger, Pete, Keith and John in the last blog, I (get it? Trigger? horse? Awwww, nevermind …) remembered the very second song I ever heard from these “longhaired noisemakers” playing their “yehyehyehbongabonga” music (thank God I had an eloquent father!).
The song was Baldheaded Woman by four boys with the outlandish-name-that-asked-a-question. It was derived from an old Delta Blues tune from the ’30s, but when the dudes-in-question (Who?) did it, the song took on a power of its own.
It turned me on to the harmonica (a tremendous bridge, just before Daltrey’s screaming the lyrics in the last few verses), as well as the windmill attack by Townsend on guitar.
Another song is worth a listen, if only for the moment after the record had played. The song, Happy Jack, had Keith’s cool drumming (especially in the bridge) and was a fairly happy-sounding ditty. But if you’ll listen for a moment after the last note, you’ll hear Roger yelling happily, off-mic, something like I got ya! They might’ve cut it when it hit CD … but it was fun to hear on the original.
Mary Ann With The Shaky Hands was one where the reverb wasn’t really necessary. The song itself gave enough sexual innuendo and the feeling of nervousness that it shoulda been packaged in a plain brown wrapper! Again, Moon’s heavy sticks carried a cool, Holly-like riff in the middle of the song.
It’s interesting to note how many people think that Roger and Pete are too old to cut it onstage. Yet, if you take in one of their sets, you’ll be surprised at how good they still are. Proof positive that, no matter what the age, you’re never too old to rock-n-roll!

FOR THE BEST IN NY SENIOR CARE

Sometimes, our senior citizens do need a hand with their everyday lives. Age has taken its toll on their functions in one way or another, and it’s often up to others to help them in any way possible.
But a question remains: If a nursing home is necessary, which is the best one for our elderly loved one? In New York City, the best way to find out is to check the Gilbert Guide. For example, you can find some excellent Brooklyn nursing home reviews that’ll lead you to the perfect haven for your family member. You can also recommend the reviews to others who might need the services!
They provide a wide range of senior care options, helping you create a plan that’ll work best with a specific elderly individual. Honestly, its claim to find “The Best Senior Care in the New York City Area” is valid … and they really do care about their clients!
So click on their link now, and help to provide the best possible assistance for your loved ones!

Well, that’s it for this edition! Until next time, remember: Keep your eyes on the skies, your feet on the ground, your heart with the music … and I’ll see ya on the flip side!

When you talk about classic rock, you’ve gotta be talking about Pete, Roger, Keith and John; collectively, The Who. No band, with the possible exception of the Beatles, has made such a continuous impact on the rock scene as a whole.

From their beginnings in West London in 1960, they brought a rebellion to rock that most groups wouldn’t dare explore at first. Their guitar-churning, wailing energy quickly made them one of the most sought-after groups in Britain. In 1964, after guitarist Pete Townshend had a temper tantrum after an onstage accident and violently smashed his guitar, the audience went wild over the act, and it soon became a trademark of their shows. Though they’ve lasted through fads and protests, drugs, death and disco, The Who’s most remarkable achievement has been their effect on rock’s future as well as its history.

Other than having chart-topping hits, perfecting an “art-rock” sound and introducing the “Rock Opera” (in the classic Tommy), they were a vital force in “chain-reaction rock.” For example, the inspiration for their lineup came directly from the London-based blues-rockers The Pirates. While these were their predecessors, their progeny is in the form of the energetic Scots, The Fratellis. This “chain reaction” has shown the group who sparked the fire (Pirates), the blazing inferno it became (The Who) and the spread of that fire through the influence of that supergroup (Fratellis). In turn, they stand to blaze through today’s charts (and, subsequently, influence tomorrow’s acts) as The Who did years ago.

Today, along with “Bonzo” John Bonham’s son, Jason (”Bonzo” was the drummer for Led Zeppelin), The Who is/are still performing — perhaps a little more mellow than before (let’s face it: they are older now!), but still extremely powerful! Roger’s also into acting (recently on a CSI episode) and Pete’s producing some great acts as well as continuing his signature songwriting. Right now, the bass (formerly held by the late, strongly-missed “Ox” … John Entwistle) is on a guest or “pool” basis. But, no matter where they are or how old they’ll get, The Who will always have their spot among the legends of the British Invasion.

BUT WHAT ABOUT HIS HAIR?

That’s the question I keep hearing when there’s talk about The Who: what about Pete’s hair loss? Look … if we’re boomers, we already know that’s gonna happen to some of us. It might be due to heredity, male pattern baldness, the effects of various meds or other causes — including age.
But a number of us don’t particularly like the bald pate, and want to have a decent head of hair again without resorting to unstable hair pieces or silly, superficial wigs.
That’s where the Foundation For Hair Restoration can help you with solid, bonafide medical hair restoration. Dr. Jeffrey Epstein and his friendly staff can get you on the road to a healthy head of hair … and regained esteem … quickly and professionally! Based in Miami (but with offices in Boca Raton and Tampa), they’ve had success stories from the US, Latin America, Europe … even the Middle East!
You’ll learn about the various treatment options from Dr. Epstein (who also teaches others about hair restoration) in a professional but relaxing environment. They also do reparative procedures and scalp-flap surgery repair. So, any way you look at it, visiting Dr. Epstein is going to lead you to a satisfied head … one with a good head of hair on top and a happy smile on its face!!

Well, that’s it for this post! Until tomorrow, remember: Keep your eyes on the skies, your feet on the ground, your heart with the music … and I’ll see ya on the flip side …

You know, with the news broadcasting showing some serious and idiotic hate crimes beginning replicating among our high schools, I’m reminded of Britain’s Teddy Boys. These guys contributed some of the styles that made the British Invasion acts popular in the US.

But the reason I brought up the hate crime issue is that, in 1958, in an area known as Notting Hill, gangs of these upper-class showoffs roamed the streets, attacking black citizens at random. Many of them thought (as they still do here) they were “superior” to blacks (which is pure BS). These were finally brought down by bobbies (Brit police) and concerned parents … but the damage was done: Many Teddys soon changed their name to Rockers, and, though the Boys’ clout was enough to gain them free admission into dance halls, the name itself was considered bad news throughout a still racially-divided Britain.

Still, their attire was what hit big over here. The Teddys wore long, dark-colored drape jackets, sometimes with a velvet trim collar (this, as you remember, was worn often by George Harrison early on), high-waisted ’stovepipe’ trousers, suede shoes (sometimes nicknamed brothel creepers) and narrow ties.
Now, if you want a better idea of what it looked like (yes, including the Teddy Girls! Young women had their versions of the look!), check out the duo to your right. They usedta be Teddys back-in-the-day, and model the clothes from back then.

There’s one thing you don’t see in the modeling that was apparently popular among the Teddys, and that’s the occasional broken nose! They’d be supplied by ther kids — those who couldn’t afford the fanciness, and were bullied by the TBs — and could throw a decent punch!

SPEAKING OF NOSES …

There are thousands of people throughout America who either need rhinoplasty (repair or straightening of the nose) due to genetics, accident or simply not being satisfied with their noses. While there are many competent surgeons in the field, the best that I’ve found (and I’ve searched, considering my proboscis!) is just up the road from my old tromping grounds. Dr. Adam Stein and the folks who do Cary rhinoplasty (the Facial Doc) do the safest, most careful and exact surgeries of their kind anywhere!
Not only do they perform nasal surgery, but many other procedures as well. Dr. Stein goes over procedures and options with you, and he and his staff are experts at putting even the most nervous or apprehensive patient at ease!
So, no matter what you need in cosmetic surgery, be sure to give him a visit by clicking the link you see listed above. You’ll certainly be pleased with the results!

Face it — no matter where you go over the info superhighway (especially if you’re lookin’ for rock-n-roll!), you’re gonna need a good (1) connection, (2) knowledge of how to operate the internet, (3) direction to the sites you need and (4) a really good monitor.

From YouTube to Google, you get the 411 you need to follow your faves, whether you’re into oldies or the new stuff. Since, right now, the Relic is propping the survivors of the hippie era, you know he needs solid resolution (and sunglasses!) for the wild artwork of the Generation.

Now, when we’re talkin’ about monitors, there’s one place where you’ll find the best in resolution, adjustibility, clarity, and sensible price — and that’s the folks who sell the viewsonic monitor. Take it from the dude who spends his workday behind the coffee-stained keyboard, 14/7 every week: the cats at Buy.com know computers like Bo Knows (waitaminnit … that’s kinda out-of-date. Let’s try this one:) … like cats know lickin’ (a little better … Daddy usedta say it!)!

Whether it’s projection models (great for “live” performances), CRTs or LCDs, they’ve got the monitors that’ll give you the best view! It’s no wonder they’re the best-selling monitor brand in America! So click on that link today … and, soon, you’ll be singing, “I Can See Clearly Now”!

A QUICK UPDATE

As far as the Relic’s found, Mr. “Lady Justice” Wayne Fontana is still undergoing mental treatment for his screwball antics in a British courtroom awhile back. The singer is being treated as a possible bipolar patient, which won’t keep him from performing, but will have some heavy restrictions due to the charges that are still pending against him.
Also, word is that former DC5 organist Mike Smith is suffering from complications stemming from his 2003 accident. I’m following this story as closely as possible, as, if you remember, this was the same report given shortly before “Superman” Chris Reeve’s succumbing. Just don’t know what complications are involved here …

Well, that’s it for this edition. Until next time, remember: Keep your eyes on the skies, your feet on the ground, your heart with the music … and I’ll see you on the flip side …

Okay … for years, we’ve associated it with Western shoot-’em-ups, desert and Indians. But didja know the Grand Canyon (or, to some, Copper) State is also the home to some outtasight rockers?

Ever since I first heard Mark Lindsay (nee Paul Revere and the Raiders) perform his hit song, Arizona, I wanted to learn more about the musical side of the 48th state. From the torchy Linda Ronstadt to rock’s version of Dolly Parton, Stevie Nicks; from the tough, no-nonsense heavy rock of Alice Cooper to the country ballads of Marty Robbins, there’s been some seriously cool music comin’ outta the hills there! Of course, the great Waylon Jennings’ last home was in Chandler, Ariz.

Even some recent heavy hitters call Arizona home, as well: Gin Blossoms, Jimmy Eat World, Mr. Mister and CeCe Peniston all hail from a location within the state. The music seems to have more freedom and openness to it, and the venues around the state are some of the most sought-after in the business, both by major country-western acts (of course!) and rock performers.

Arizona’s known to be one of the fastest-growing states in the union, and for good reason: the air (yes, even in the sometimes-stifling heat!) is cleaner, there are many opportunities for business there, the folks are friendlier, the crime rate’s lower … it’s really a nice place to settle down!

If you’re thinkin’ of gettin’ a home where, though the buffalo don’t roam, the living is easy, you gotta check out some prime Arizona luxury real estate. The people behind that link have some of the most beautiful homes in the Valley, and will happily go the “extra mile” to find you the perfect residence for you and your family! Personally, I can recommend Chandler, but Sonoran Properties have so many they can show you throughout the area! They really do work for YOU … not just to land the deal. They’re sincerely interested in bringing you the best in housing, whether you wanna play in Peoria or just have a pleasant Surprise (both are names of Arizona towns they cover).

So check them out today by clicking on that link! And, until next time, remember: Keep your eyes on the skies, your feet on the ground, your heart with the music … and I’ll catch ya on the flip side!

A few days ago I ran across an article on a certain hip-hop star who bragged that he was the coolest thing that music’s produced in years (now, hang on: The Relic’s got nothin’ against rap or hip-hop. So don’t go there!).

He obviously hasn’t met Fats Domino.

Anyone who followed the story of Hurricane Katrina knows the double-whammy that the fury had on Fats: not only did he (along with thousands of others) have to be rescued from rough waters when the dikes (please see spelling, and no comments, okay?) broke, but, while he was being assisted, thieves apparently broke into his home and made off with his gold records. As if that wasn’t bad enough, during the investigation police found his white baby grand piano was missing!

Now, this New Orleans native, who’s now 79 years old, coulda made a big issue out of it and blamed the government, the rescue workers — even his fellow townfolk. He coulda turned as sour as an underripe green apple.

But he didn’t. Instead, Fats kept a brave smile on his face and heart, recovered from the inital trauma and, while he remembers the anxieties and tragedies of those days in 2004, is continuing to perform in clubs around this brave Louisiana Gulf port.

I’ll do a longer piece on him a bit later in the broadcast, but you can also check up on the (no-longer-)Fat Man in last week’s USA Today weekend edition. But, to that hip-hop hopeful: Man, you don’t know jack about cool … until you’ve been through the fire like Fats has … and come out with his attitude.

GET THE KNOWLEDGE!

If you’re runnin’ a business, have some serious researching to do for your boss, or just trying to gather some data about a specific market, you’re gonna want some experienced, professional help. And the market research specialists at Synovate are ready to give you all the support you need to make your presentation — whether large or small — sparkle!
They cover topics from Advertising (pre-testing your ads and tracking how well your communications are doing)to Youth (various brands cooperating to discover the needs of young people), data collecting and so much more!
So, if you wanna be well-informed, market-savvy and really ready to rock with the best info and assistance, give that link up there a click today!

Well, that’s it on this end. Until next edition, remember to give Synovate a good, solid visit, and, as always …
Keep your eyes on the skies, your feet on the ground, your heart with the music … and I’ll see ya on the flip side …

When the Beatles and other Brit groups hit America’s shores, it seemed that almost every type of music was pushed aside a bit to make way for this new European sound.  But one style refused to back off; in fact,  soul music began to grow in popularity — showing up on more airwave playlists and request lines than ever!  

One of the first groups to break the racial barrier and become hitmakers in the Caucasian markets was The Supremes.  (Sure, there were others, but they got the most airplay, initially).  Their lead singer, Diana Ross, fronted the talented trio (the other two being Florence Ballard and Mary Wilson) and, eventually, had her name fronting the marquees.  Still, their highly-emotive sound, backed with a driving rhythm section, made them one of the most requested American acts on radio! Their only rivals were the great Martha and The Vandellas (Dancin’ In The Street, Jimmy Mack).

Their male counterparts were part of a five-man vocal group whose members shared the lead vocals at one point or another.  The Temptations first hit the charts with the song that praised the wonders of My Girl.  It’s interesting to note that, though all other original members have either moved or passed on, leader Otis Williams is still wowing audiences with a new group of Temptations — and is the most-requested of all “original” soul acts.

Of course, we wouldn’t’ve had the Motown/Stax stampede at all were it not for the man they called “Soul Brother #1″ — the inimitable James Brown.  Though Mr. Brown had almost single-handedly popularized the screaming soul sound years before, his act was new to many white audiences.  However, by the time I Got You (I Feel Good) made the charts, his name was synonymous with the genre … thus giving him a new name: The Godfather of Soul. 

The only one who actually gave Mr. Brown a run for the money on the charts was the raw energy of “Wicked” Wilson Pickett.  He covered the Billboard Top 10 with a number of hits (the biggest was Mustang Sally), and was, to some, more versatile than Mr. Brown:  He could rock (Land of A 1,000 Dances),  shoot soul (Mustang Sally),  get down with funk ([I’m A] Midnight Mover), cover country (Green, Green Grass of Home) – even do a bit of operetta (Deborah, which was the “B” side to Mover). 

Inspired by these successes, other solo acts hit the recording studios and venues:  The comical but soulful Joe Tex (I Gotcha, Hold On [To What You Got], Skinny Legs and All), Arthur Conley (Sweet Soul Music), and a young singer with a football-player physique who’ll forever by recognized by one name: Otis (Otis Redding, of course).  It also influenced white groups to try and mimic the sound (the only successful ones were The Young Rascals and Soul Survivors).

There were hundreds of others who made radio airplay and greeted packed houses from Harlem’s Apollo Theater to smaller city’s radio wingdings.  But one thing that’s been asked of the Relic is, Why did they hit at the same time as the Invasion?  Why not before?  The answer’s simple:  The British acts had a strong connection with the R&B and Delta Blues sounds (from which soul came).  Much of their material had the strong rhythm of the soul sounds.  Put those two reasons together, and make ‘em mutual, and you’ll see why it became so popular with the formerly all-white radio and concert markets.

NO BEATING AROUND THE BUSH

Whenever we look for new furniture for the house/apartment, we wanna make sure it’s the type that’ll (a) look really good, complementing our home decor, (b) sturdy and top-quality and (c) naturally, affordable. We can go to furniture stores in our areas, of course, but … well, they can be so pushy, and we end up buying a lot of stuff we don’t need.
But the folks at Bush furniture give ya those things without the pushiness. You get just what you need to make your office or house look really good, with quality, functional furniture that costs less than what you’d pay at local stores!
You have a great selection for every room in the house, too! And, get this: You can do all your shopping right from the comfort of your own home!
You also get volume discounts and they’ll beat any other store’s price! Now, when you add “quality” to all that, how can ya lose?? Click on their link now, and be enjoying your new furniture within days!

Well, that’s it for this post. Until next time, remember to keep your eyes on the skies, your feet on the ground, your heart with the music, and I’ll see ya on the flip side!