Originally posted on facebook, December 2010
Hope you have enjoyed the rainy list so far…in the last post I gave you a little teaser about what was to come – I wonder if you were able to deduce any of the tracks on the top ten….
10 - Who’ll Stop the Rain – Creedence Clearwater Revival.
This is from the great album “Cosmo’s Factory”, and despite being rock, it has a folk/acoustic feel to it, and a bit of a melancholy undercurrent.
9 - Kentucky Rain – Elvis Presley.
You can’t leave the King off this list, and Kentucky Rain is a good example of 70’s era Elvis.
8 - Rain – The Beatles.
An unheralded track from their experimental phase, Rain actually holds up pretty well as a solid track.
7 - Buckets of Rain – Bob Dylan.
A simple, but beautiful song from Bob’s great album “Blood on the Tracks”, I found this quote about the song by Oliver Trager, and I can’t do a better job of summing it up, so here it is: “Closing an otherwise desperate album with a light reappraisal of commitment, "Buckets of Rain" is a final Sinatra-like tip of the hat sung with the playfulness of an old Piedmont songster. Though Dylan seems to liken the relationship he describes here with the ferocity of a deluge, he plaintively sings to his love, describing in light, sensual brushstrokes why he still finds her special”
6 - Have you ever seen the rain? – Creedence Clearwater Revival.
The swamp rockers are back with another rain song. At my work’s Christmas party a few weeks ago, a covers band were playing this song, which prompted a bit of a crowd sing a long, and the song just evoked a really nice feel to it. Again, doing some research on the net about the song has prompted a host of explanations as to what the songs lyrics actually mean – was it about tension within the band, was it a Vietnam War protest song (with mean being a metaphor for bombs)?, or was it about the idealism of the 1960’s fading? It doesn’t really matter, it’s a great song whatever it means.
5 - I Love a Rainy Night – Eddie Rabbitt.
This is another of those songs which some might term a bit daggy, but I really like (and often feature on my lists). It was a country crossover hit for Rabbitt, and is a very catchy song. In an interesting piece of trivia, Rabbitt wrote the Elvis song “Kentucky Rain”.
4 - Why Does it Always Rain on me? – Travis.
This song was extremely overplayed at the time it was a hit, and I think a lot of people got sick of it, but revisiting it, I still think it holds up as a great song. When things are not going right for us in our lives, I think everyone can relate to the premise of this song.
3- A Hard Rain’s a Gonna Fall – Bob Dylan.
A great song from Dylan’s protest song repertoire, the lyrics take the form of questions and answers. As a general rule, I don’t like long songs, and this one clocks in at nearly seven minutes long, but when long songs are done well, they sound great.
2- Fire and Rain – James Taylor.
A lovely folk/rock ballad from Mr Taylor, this is a moody and introspective, and very sparce. I think it’s a beautiful track.
1- Rain – Dragon.
Possibly a controversial choice to pick a pop/rock track that is relatively simple in structure and lyrics compared to some of the others mentioned, but I happen to really like this song. Its just a great pop song, and the sort of song that I always want to sing along to, despite not being able to hit any of the notes!
So there it is, my rain songs list. I hope you have enjoyed it. Feel free to post your thoughts and let me know what songs I have left off that should be on the list.
Saturday, January 1, 2011
Musical list - Top Twenty "Rain" songs - PART ONE
Originally posted on facebook, Dec 2010
Hi Everyone.
Sorry I am a bit late with the list this week – lots of stuff on at the moment!
Lately its been raining a fair bit in Melbourne (well maybe it just seems that way since in recent years it hasn’t been raining all that much!), so it got me to think, what would be the top 20 rain songs? Of the lists I have made so far, this one has been by far the hardest, in terms of settling on a final twenty, but also in terms of what order the tracks should be in. Every time I have looked at the list, I have tinkered with the order.
So here is the list – I am sure if I looked at it again I would continue to tinker with the order. I know the excitement of this list will be getting to you now. Will Milli Vanilli make an appearance? Will we all need to get stoned? (the music geeks will understand this!) Will we be able to stand the rain, or will we be singing in the rain? Will we only understand her in the rain?
Hope you enjoy it though!!
20 - Waiting for the Rain to Fall - Chris Isaak.
Its probably fair to say that Chris Isaak has more of a female than male fan base, but nevertheless I still think he is a very talented individual. His voice almost has a haunting quality to it, that I really like. This track is from his self titled album, and in some ways is the stereotypical Issak song about a wounded romance, but its still a nice track.
19 - Summer Rain – U2.
No, its not the Belinda Carlisle track, although for a pop song I actually don’t mind that one. This is a largely acoustic based track that is from their B sides 1990-2000 compilation. It’s a nice enough song, but nothing like the stadium rock that you would expect from U2.
18 - I Wish It would Rain Down – Phil Collins.
Some late 80’s adult pop from the bald drummer himself, this one almost has a bit of gospel influence to it. Nice song.
17 - Raindrops keep falling on my head – BJ Thomas (or John Farnham, take your pick) .
I have both versions in my collection, and there is not really much to say about this song, it’s a simple, catchy little number.
16 - Rainy Night in Soho – The Pogues.
I am a Pogues fan, and this is an interesting track because its not the fast paced, dirty Irish folk that we are used to from this group, but rather its romantic, evocative. A quick google search has revealed that some believe it is a song about whisky (Pogues lead singer Shane MacGowan’s struggles with alcohol are well known) but I think I would prefer to think of it as a sweet little love song.
15 - Midnight Rain – Paul Kelly.
From the underrated album “Nothing But a Dream” this is a nice, moody, atmospheric type of song. Although there are other better tracks on this album, it fits quite nicely and is a good track.
14 - After the Rain – The Angels.
After those moody, romantic songs, I gotta include some Aussie pub rock in the list, and this track by the Angels is a good one!
13 - Rain on the Scarecrow – John Mellencamp.
Allmusic.com describes this song as one that captures the hopes and fears of Middle America. I probably haven’t searched for such a deep meaning, I just like it as a rock song. There are better Mellencamp songs than this, but it’s a good track nonetheless.
12 - No Rain – Blind Melon.
Its 90’s mainstream pop/rock, but its good pop/rock.
11 - Summer Rain – Paul Kelly.
The opening track from Paul’s excellent “Wanted Man” album, this is a beautiful song. Kelly sings quite plainly (if you don’t like his voice you might find this annoying) but is accompanied by some lovely piano and cello. In writing this list and looking on the internet for some information, I have been shocked to discover that this song is essentially about sex (“"She comes and goes like summer rain / I wait all day for summer rain / And when she comes I smile again". ) I am hoping that Paul’s book, where he sheds light on some of the meanings behind his songs, is going to be under the Christmas tree with my name on it, so that I can find out more about this, and other songs.
So there it is, part one of the Rain songs. Part two coming up soon, and plenty to look forward to, with some of the biggest names in music on the list, two artists featuring twice, and a massive question that was a hit in the late 90's!
Hi Everyone.
Sorry I am a bit late with the list this week – lots of stuff on at the moment!
Lately its been raining a fair bit in Melbourne (well maybe it just seems that way since in recent years it hasn’t been raining all that much!), so it got me to think, what would be the top 20 rain songs? Of the lists I have made so far, this one has been by far the hardest, in terms of settling on a final twenty, but also in terms of what order the tracks should be in. Every time I have looked at the list, I have tinkered with the order.
So here is the list – I am sure if I looked at it again I would continue to tinker with the order. I know the excitement of this list will be getting to you now. Will Milli Vanilli make an appearance? Will we all need to get stoned? (the music geeks will understand this!) Will we be able to stand the rain, or will we be singing in the rain? Will we only understand her in the rain?
Hope you enjoy it though!!
20 - Waiting for the Rain to Fall - Chris Isaak.
Its probably fair to say that Chris Isaak has more of a female than male fan base, but nevertheless I still think he is a very talented individual. His voice almost has a haunting quality to it, that I really like. This track is from his self titled album, and in some ways is the stereotypical Issak song about a wounded romance, but its still a nice track.
19 - Summer Rain – U2.
No, its not the Belinda Carlisle track, although for a pop song I actually don’t mind that one. This is a largely acoustic based track that is from their B sides 1990-2000 compilation. It’s a nice enough song, but nothing like the stadium rock that you would expect from U2.
18 - I Wish It would Rain Down – Phil Collins.
Some late 80’s adult pop from the bald drummer himself, this one almost has a bit of gospel influence to it. Nice song.
17 - Raindrops keep falling on my head – BJ Thomas (or John Farnham, take your pick) .
I have both versions in my collection, and there is not really much to say about this song, it’s a simple, catchy little number.
16 - Rainy Night in Soho – The Pogues.
I am a Pogues fan, and this is an interesting track because its not the fast paced, dirty Irish folk that we are used to from this group, but rather its romantic, evocative. A quick google search has revealed that some believe it is a song about whisky (Pogues lead singer Shane MacGowan’s struggles with alcohol are well known) but I think I would prefer to think of it as a sweet little love song.
15 - Midnight Rain – Paul Kelly.
From the underrated album “Nothing But a Dream” this is a nice, moody, atmospheric type of song. Although there are other better tracks on this album, it fits quite nicely and is a good track.
14 - After the Rain – The Angels.
After those moody, romantic songs, I gotta include some Aussie pub rock in the list, and this track by the Angels is a good one!
13 - Rain on the Scarecrow – John Mellencamp.
Allmusic.com describes this song as one that captures the hopes and fears of Middle America. I probably haven’t searched for such a deep meaning, I just like it as a rock song. There are better Mellencamp songs than this, but it’s a good track nonetheless.
12 - No Rain – Blind Melon.
Its 90’s mainstream pop/rock, but its good pop/rock.
11 - Summer Rain – Paul Kelly.
The opening track from Paul’s excellent “Wanted Man” album, this is a beautiful song. Kelly sings quite plainly (if you don’t like his voice you might find this annoying) but is accompanied by some lovely piano and cello. In writing this list and looking on the internet for some information, I have been shocked to discover that this song is essentially about sex (“"She comes and goes like summer rain / I wait all day for summer rain / And when she comes I smile again". ) I am hoping that Paul’s book, where he sheds light on some of the meanings behind his songs, is going to be under the Christmas tree with my name on it, so that I can find out more about this, and other songs.
So there it is, part one of the Rain songs. Part two coming up soon, and plenty to look forward to, with some of the biggest names in music on the list, two artists featuring twice, and a massive question that was a hit in the late 90's!
Musical list - Top Twenty "bird songs" - PART TWO
Hope you enjoyed part one of the bird list…now here are some seriously top birds…
10 - Birds and Ships – Billy Bragg and Wilco
– from the brilliant album Mermaid Avenue, whereby Billy Bragg and Wilco took unfinished lyrics from the folk singer Woody Guthrie, and put them to music. In this track, Natalie Merchant guest vocals, providing a beautiful ballad. Lovely stuff.
9 - When Doves Cry – Prince.
Some 80’s pop is very daggy, but I don’t think you could apply that term to this song, which is possibly Prince’s signature tune, and discusses some relationship difficulties.
8 - Bird in a Basement – Paul Dempsey.
Dempsey’s 2009 solo album “Everything is True” is well worth a listen. Although his voice is gravelly, he still manages to sound soulful and sometime melancholic. “Bird in a Basement” is one of the best tracks on the album.
7- Bird on a Wire – Jimmy Barnes and Troy Cassar-Daly.
Written by Leonard Cohen, this song has almost become a country standard. I also have a Johnny Cash version of it in my collection, but I actually really like the duet between Jimmy Barnes and Australian country singer Troy Casser-Daly, for Barnes’ duet album “Double Happiness”, which is a mixture of some really great songs, and some that don't do a lot for me. Jimmy’s rough vocals, beside Troy’s sweet vocals make it a real joy to listen to. Perhaps embarrassingly, I have to admit I have not heard the original Cohen version. I think I need to get me some Cohen in my collection!!
6 - Rockin Robin – Michael Jackson.
I am not a huge Michael Jackson fan, but I am usually in awe whenever I see footage of a young Michael, a child, belting out these amazing tracks with his amazing voice. Although it was a cover, I think Michael really made this song his own, and the simple lyrics probably suit the innocent vocal style that he had at the time. And it’s a very catchy track too!!
5 - Songbird – Bernard Fanning.
Fanning’s solo album “Tea and Sympathy” is a great album of country/folk music mixed in with pop, to give some great catchy music, with lyrics about love, loss and regret. Songbird is a great track, very catchy.
4 - Blackbird – The Beatles.
What can you say about Blackbird? It’s a lovely gentle acoustic ballad from Paul McCartney. Sweet, beautiful stuff.
3 - Three Little Birds – Bob Marley.
“Don’t worry, about a thing, cos every little thing, is gonna be allright.” Ok, I know its really cheesy, but I really love this reggae song, its just got such a lovely sentiment to it and is really nice to listen to.
2- And Your Bird Can Sing – The Beatles.
This song might not be as well known as other Beatles songs, but its every bit as good, in my opinion. From the Revolver album, its a rocking track, featuring a dual guitar melody. Great stuff.
1 - Eagle Rock – Daddy Cool.
This classic Aussie rock track just has to be the number one bid song. It’s a catchy, brilliant song. Not much more to say really!!
Did I leave your favourite bird off the list?????
10 - Birds and Ships – Billy Bragg and Wilco
– from the brilliant album Mermaid Avenue, whereby Billy Bragg and Wilco took unfinished lyrics from the folk singer Woody Guthrie, and put them to music. In this track, Natalie Merchant guest vocals, providing a beautiful ballad. Lovely stuff.
9 - When Doves Cry – Prince.
Some 80’s pop is very daggy, but I don’t think you could apply that term to this song, which is possibly Prince’s signature tune, and discusses some relationship difficulties.
8 - Bird in a Basement – Paul Dempsey.
Dempsey’s 2009 solo album “Everything is True” is well worth a listen. Although his voice is gravelly, he still manages to sound soulful and sometime melancholic. “Bird in a Basement” is one of the best tracks on the album.
7- Bird on a Wire – Jimmy Barnes and Troy Cassar-Daly.
Written by Leonard Cohen, this song has almost become a country standard. I also have a Johnny Cash version of it in my collection, but I actually really like the duet between Jimmy Barnes and Australian country singer Troy Casser-Daly, for Barnes’ duet album “Double Happiness”, which is a mixture of some really great songs, and some that don't do a lot for me. Jimmy’s rough vocals, beside Troy’s sweet vocals make it a real joy to listen to. Perhaps embarrassingly, I have to admit I have not heard the original Cohen version. I think I need to get me some Cohen in my collection!!
6 - Rockin Robin – Michael Jackson.
I am not a huge Michael Jackson fan, but I am usually in awe whenever I see footage of a young Michael, a child, belting out these amazing tracks with his amazing voice. Although it was a cover, I think Michael really made this song his own, and the simple lyrics probably suit the innocent vocal style that he had at the time. And it’s a very catchy track too!!
5 - Songbird – Bernard Fanning.
Fanning’s solo album “Tea and Sympathy” is a great album of country/folk music mixed in with pop, to give some great catchy music, with lyrics about love, loss and regret. Songbird is a great track, very catchy.
4 - Blackbird – The Beatles.
What can you say about Blackbird? It’s a lovely gentle acoustic ballad from Paul McCartney. Sweet, beautiful stuff.
3 - Three Little Birds – Bob Marley.
“Don’t worry, about a thing, cos every little thing, is gonna be allright.” Ok, I know its really cheesy, but I really love this reggae song, its just got such a lovely sentiment to it and is really nice to listen to.
2- And Your Bird Can Sing – The Beatles.
This song might not be as well known as other Beatles songs, but its every bit as good, in my opinion. From the Revolver album, its a rocking track, featuring a dual guitar melody. Great stuff.
1 - Eagle Rock – Daddy Cool.
This classic Aussie rock track just has to be the number one bid song. It’s a catchy, brilliant song. Not much more to say really!!
Did I leave your favourite bird off the list?????
Musical list - Top Twenty "Bird" songs - PART ONE
Originally posted on facebook, December 2010
At this time of year, a lot of music magazines and websites are producing their “top albums of the year” lists. In my case though, I think I have only purchased a handful of 2010 releases this year, so not enough to make a considered and informed list.
One album I have really enjoyed this year though has been the Basement Birds. A supergroup if you like, comprised of Josh Pyke, Kevin Mitchell (from Jebediah and Bob Evans fame), Kav Temperley (from Eskimo Joe) and Steve Parkin. These guys sing some nice harmonies and the album has got a really good feel to it. Its not groundbreaking or influential, its just a really nice listen. I also had the opportunity to see them perform live at the Forum, and that was a great gig.
So, in honour of the Basement Birds, I thought this week’s theme could be the top twenty “bird” songs. Here comes the first installment…..
20 - Sunsets (Birds of Prey) – Fatboy Slim –
I am not really much of a fan of electronica music, but I can take the odd song here or there, and at 3 and a half minutes, this one is OK, without being anything spectacular. In this track, Jim Morrison from the Doors is sampled.
19 - Bluebird – Jim White.
A little bit of alt-country. I still haven’t figured out Jim White yet, despite having his album “Drill a Hole in that Substrate and Tell Me What You See”, which Bluebird is from. It’s the sort of music that takes a while to grow on you, but there is quality there, and I think this album will continue to reveal itself over time.
18 - Dead Duck – Badly Drawn Boy.
A short little instrumental interlude on the About A Boy soundtrack. It’s a lovely little 40 seconds of music.
17 - Whistling Bird – Paul Kelly.
A nice little bluegrass track from Paul’s first bluegrass album, “Smoke”, where he teamed up with Uncle Bill. As with all of Paul Kelly’s work, this is a solid album, although there stronger tracks than this one.
16 - Bird Dog – Everly Brothers.
These two brothers produced some lovely harmonies, and some great pop tracks in the late 50’s and 60’s. This one comes from their rock and roll period. Possibly not one of their absolute best, I have always liked this song for some reason. Not sure why. A “bird dog” is a bit of a ladies man, so this song is a warning for the bird dog to stay from their “chick”.
15 - Pretty Flamingo – Manfred Mann.
My Dad likes Manfred Mann, so I remember this song being in the background a fair bit when I was a child. I guess it stays with you, and hence why it is included here. The “flamingo” mentioned in the song actually refers to a girl, 'cause her hair glows like the sun and her eyes can light the skies". Great 60’s pop.
14 - Songbird – Fleetwood Mac –
This Christine McVie ballad from Rumours features introspective lyrics, a beautiful track. Fleetwood Mac also have a another song that could have been included – the instrumental “Albatross” from early on in their career.
13 - Birds Fly Backwards – Ed Harcourt –
I have just recently got singer/songwriter Harcourt’s 2001 debut album “Here Be Monsters”, which features Birds Fly Backwards, and I am really starting to enjoy this album a lot. Harcourt sings with almost a fragility in his voice, and hence is able to make some really nice music.
12 - Parrot Fashion Love – Split Enz.
If you have been reading my lists to date, you would have noticed my penchant for daggy songs, and this one absolutely fits that category as well. But it’s a lot of fun, from the Dizrythmia album. I am sure some of you will be screaming at your computer screens that I could rate this song higher than some of the others.
11 - El Condor Pasa – Simon and Garfunkel –
Originally a Peruvian folk song, and translating to “The Condor Flies By”, Simon and Garfunkel adapted the song, adding his own lyrics in English. It’s a nice little folk song.
I will put the top 10 bird songs on tomorrow. Hope you are enjoying the lists, and feel free to make any comments…What bird songs would be flying into your lists? Also, what birds have I missed? And despite the court case, we are not going to be classing Men at Work's "Downunder" as a bird song!!
At this time of year, a lot of music magazines and websites are producing their “top albums of the year” lists. In my case though, I think I have only purchased a handful of 2010 releases this year, so not enough to make a considered and informed list.
One album I have really enjoyed this year though has been the Basement Birds. A supergroup if you like, comprised of Josh Pyke, Kevin Mitchell (from Jebediah and Bob Evans fame), Kav Temperley (from Eskimo Joe) and Steve Parkin. These guys sing some nice harmonies and the album has got a really good feel to it. Its not groundbreaking or influential, its just a really nice listen. I also had the opportunity to see them perform live at the Forum, and that was a great gig.
So, in honour of the Basement Birds, I thought this week’s theme could be the top twenty “bird” songs. Here comes the first installment…..
20 - Sunsets (Birds of Prey) – Fatboy Slim –
I am not really much of a fan of electronica music, but I can take the odd song here or there, and at 3 and a half minutes, this one is OK, without being anything spectacular. In this track, Jim Morrison from the Doors is sampled.
19 - Bluebird – Jim White.
A little bit of alt-country. I still haven’t figured out Jim White yet, despite having his album “Drill a Hole in that Substrate and Tell Me What You See”, which Bluebird is from. It’s the sort of music that takes a while to grow on you, but there is quality there, and I think this album will continue to reveal itself over time.
18 - Dead Duck – Badly Drawn Boy.
A short little instrumental interlude on the About A Boy soundtrack. It’s a lovely little 40 seconds of music.
17 - Whistling Bird – Paul Kelly.
A nice little bluegrass track from Paul’s first bluegrass album, “Smoke”, where he teamed up with Uncle Bill. As with all of Paul Kelly’s work, this is a solid album, although there stronger tracks than this one.
16 - Bird Dog – Everly Brothers.
These two brothers produced some lovely harmonies, and some great pop tracks in the late 50’s and 60’s. This one comes from their rock and roll period. Possibly not one of their absolute best, I have always liked this song for some reason. Not sure why. A “bird dog” is a bit of a ladies man, so this song is a warning for the bird dog to stay from their “chick”.
15 - Pretty Flamingo – Manfred Mann.
My Dad likes Manfred Mann, so I remember this song being in the background a fair bit when I was a child. I guess it stays with you, and hence why it is included here. The “flamingo” mentioned in the song actually refers to a girl, 'cause her hair glows like the sun and her eyes can light the skies". Great 60’s pop.
14 - Songbird – Fleetwood Mac –
This Christine McVie ballad from Rumours features introspective lyrics, a beautiful track. Fleetwood Mac also have a another song that could have been included – the instrumental “Albatross” from early on in their career.
13 - Birds Fly Backwards – Ed Harcourt –
I have just recently got singer/songwriter Harcourt’s 2001 debut album “Here Be Monsters”, which features Birds Fly Backwards, and I am really starting to enjoy this album a lot. Harcourt sings with almost a fragility in his voice, and hence is able to make some really nice music.
12 - Parrot Fashion Love – Split Enz.
If you have been reading my lists to date, you would have noticed my penchant for daggy songs, and this one absolutely fits that category as well. But it’s a lot of fun, from the Dizrythmia album. I am sure some of you will be screaming at your computer screens that I could rate this song higher than some of the others.
11 - El Condor Pasa – Simon and Garfunkel –
Originally a Peruvian folk song, and translating to “The Condor Flies By”, Simon and Garfunkel adapted the song, adding his own lyrics in English. It’s a nice little folk song.
I will put the top 10 bird songs on tomorrow. Hope you are enjoying the lists, and feel free to make any comments…What bird songs would be flying into your lists? Also, what birds have I missed? And despite the court case, we are not going to be classing Men at Work's "Downunder" as a bird song!!
Booze-o Musical Top Twenty - PART TWO - the top ten is revealed
So here it is, the top ten Booze-o songs revealed!!!! (and a few of them seem to be as requested too)
Originally posted on facebook, December 2010
10 - Tubthumping – Chumbawumba
I have absolutely no idea what this song is about, or indeed what the title means, but it’s a very catchy track, from “I get knocked down but I get up again” line, through to the drinking references. A great bit of pop/rock from the nineties.
“Pissin' the night away, He drinks a whiskey drink, He drinks a vodka drink, He drinks a lager drink, He drinks a cider drink”
9 – Tequila – The Champs
What a memorable piece of instrumental music this track is? It probably needs no introduction. And no doubt, no matter where it is played, the crowd will always be ready to chant “tequila” at the appropriate time.
“Tequila”
8 - Streams of Whiskey – The Pogues
From the Pogues debut album, “Red Roses for Me”, this is classic Pogues. The song is actually a tribute to Irish poet and notorious drinker Brendan Behan.
“When the world is too dark and I need the light inside of me, I'll go into a bar and drink fifteen pints of beer, I am going, I am going, Any which way the wind may be blowing, I am going, I am going, Where streams of whiskey are flowing”
7 - Paycheques – Tex, Don and Charlie.
I picked up a Tex Perkins best of, which contains tracks from all aspects of his career, including the Tex, Don and Charlie collaboration (being Cold Chisel’s Don Walker and guitarist Charlie Owens). Aside from the tracks that I already knew, the Tex, Don and Charlie stuff stood out to me, and this track in particular. I love the witty line that I have listed below, which is repeated several times through the song.
“on weekends I perform miracles, I turn paycheques into wine, One working weeks' wage at a time”
6 - Rehab – Amy Winehouse.
How could we not include an artist with a surname "Winehouse" on the list? I probably could have picked many tracks from Winehouse’s second album “Back to Black”. But this one, the most well known, is the stand out. The song is retro sounding, with Winehouse’s booming voice conveying a bit of attitude.
“They tried to make me go to rehab, I said, "No, no, no"”
5 - Pass the Flagon – The Whitlams.
From the excellent Whitlams album “Undeniably the Whitlams”, this track features Stevie Plunder on vocals. Plunder was the groups guitarist who passed away before the band had their success. In this catchy ditty with a bit of country twang to it, Plunder sings about turning to the flagon to try and erase the memories of a woman.
“So pass the flagon down the line, It don't taste bad for such cheap wine”
4 - The Nips are Getting Bigger – Mental as Anything
A great Aussie rock group that usually keep their tongue firmly planted in their cheek, they manage to sing songs that are witty, but much better than a novelty song. Like many on this list, they could very easily have had other tracks on this list, but this song certainly fits the bill. The band sing about starting off drinking beer before moving on to drinking Jamaican rum. Great track.
“Sometimes I wonder, What all these chemicals, Are doin' to my brain, Doesn't worry me enough, To stop me from doin' it agai-ai-ain”
3 - A Pub with No Beer – Slim Dusty
Unlike the other tracks on this list that are focusing on the act of drinking, this song focuses on the shambolic impact that not being able to drink has! An anxious publican, a sober blacksmith that has to go home to his wife early, a cranky maid, a dry stockman, a tired swagman, a nervous dog awaiting for his master, they are all in this track. A masterpiece in the tradition of storytelling.
“there's-a nothing so lonesome, morbid or drear, than to stand in the bar of a pub with no beer”
2 - I Gotta Get Drunk – Little Willies
The Little Willies were a side project of songbird Norah Jones. Norah teamed up with a few of her friends to record a country music album, featuring a mixture of covers and original. This song is a cover of a Willie Nelson song. Norah’s version though is really enjoyable, and her voice does suit country music surprisingly well.
“There's a lot of doctors that tell me that I'd better start slowin' it down, But there's more old drunks than there are old doctors, So I guess we'd better have another round”
1 - Me and My Friend – Bob Evans
The untitled hidden track at the end of Bob’s second album “Suburban Songbook”, this song gets my vote as the best drinking/alcohol themed song. I think the reason why this one works so well for me is just how much I can relate to it. For me, most of the time that I spend drinking is really just to catch up with friends, and be more of a social experience. This theme I think is encapsulated perfectly in the lyrics to this song. It truly is a wonderful song.
As it might not be as well known as some of the other songs listed, I have put the lyrics in full below. I hope you enjoy it.
Me and my friend are walking to a bar on a cool winters evening underneath the stars
We'll find somewhere close we don't want to walk far
Nor do we want the hassle of a car
I'll order whisky and they'll order beer
The gourmet selection's intimidating here and sometimes what you know is the best way to steer
I say this ones my shout and my friend says cheers
This is some new joint that we've never been
Two lovers are fighting and making a scene
Some guy's setting up a karaoke machine
Let's find somewhere different where the carpet ain't clean
Me and my friend are walking to a bar on a cool winters evening underneath the stars
And we'll find somewhere new we don't want to walk far nor waste drinking money on a taxi car
My friends addicted to their mobile phone and they're constantly messaging someone back home with some inner fear of being alone
So for a short while my thoughts are my own
Walking round the corner a pub is in sight
Up there on the left just past those lights
We've been there before yeah that place is alright
Let's pull up a stool and settle in for the night
I love my friends I hope they love me too cos sometimes there is nothing better to do
Than to go out and get stuck in to a few
I'm gonna spend my time with a good friend like you
So there you have it, my second musical list down….keep the comments coming, and I will keep the lists coming.
And, I should also sign off the booze-o’s list by saying Cheers, Prost!, Bottoms Up, Slainte, Zum Wohl, L’Chaim, 'Op uw gezondheid', or whatever it is you choose to say!!
Originally posted on facebook, December 2010
10 - Tubthumping – Chumbawumba
I have absolutely no idea what this song is about, or indeed what the title means, but it’s a very catchy track, from “I get knocked down but I get up again” line, through to the drinking references. A great bit of pop/rock from the nineties.
“Pissin' the night away, He drinks a whiskey drink, He drinks a vodka drink, He drinks a lager drink, He drinks a cider drink”
9 – Tequila – The Champs
What a memorable piece of instrumental music this track is? It probably needs no introduction. And no doubt, no matter where it is played, the crowd will always be ready to chant “tequila” at the appropriate time.
“Tequila”
8 - Streams of Whiskey – The Pogues
From the Pogues debut album, “Red Roses for Me”, this is classic Pogues. The song is actually a tribute to Irish poet and notorious drinker Brendan Behan.
“When the world is too dark and I need the light inside of me, I'll go into a bar and drink fifteen pints of beer, I am going, I am going, Any which way the wind may be blowing, I am going, I am going, Where streams of whiskey are flowing”
7 - Paycheques – Tex, Don and Charlie.
I picked up a Tex Perkins best of, which contains tracks from all aspects of his career, including the Tex, Don and Charlie collaboration (being Cold Chisel’s Don Walker and guitarist Charlie Owens). Aside from the tracks that I already knew, the Tex, Don and Charlie stuff stood out to me, and this track in particular. I love the witty line that I have listed below, which is repeated several times through the song.
“on weekends I perform miracles, I turn paycheques into wine, One working weeks' wage at a time”
6 - Rehab – Amy Winehouse.
How could we not include an artist with a surname "Winehouse" on the list? I probably could have picked many tracks from Winehouse’s second album “Back to Black”. But this one, the most well known, is the stand out. The song is retro sounding, with Winehouse’s booming voice conveying a bit of attitude.
“They tried to make me go to rehab, I said, "No, no, no"”
5 - Pass the Flagon – The Whitlams.
From the excellent Whitlams album “Undeniably the Whitlams”, this track features Stevie Plunder on vocals. Plunder was the groups guitarist who passed away before the band had their success. In this catchy ditty with a bit of country twang to it, Plunder sings about turning to the flagon to try and erase the memories of a woman.
“So pass the flagon down the line, It don't taste bad for such cheap wine”
4 - The Nips are Getting Bigger – Mental as Anything
A great Aussie rock group that usually keep their tongue firmly planted in their cheek, they manage to sing songs that are witty, but much better than a novelty song. Like many on this list, they could very easily have had other tracks on this list, but this song certainly fits the bill. The band sing about starting off drinking beer before moving on to drinking Jamaican rum. Great track.
“Sometimes I wonder, What all these chemicals, Are doin' to my brain, Doesn't worry me enough, To stop me from doin' it agai-ai-ain”
3 - A Pub with No Beer – Slim Dusty
Unlike the other tracks on this list that are focusing on the act of drinking, this song focuses on the shambolic impact that not being able to drink has! An anxious publican, a sober blacksmith that has to go home to his wife early, a cranky maid, a dry stockman, a tired swagman, a nervous dog awaiting for his master, they are all in this track. A masterpiece in the tradition of storytelling.
“there's-a nothing so lonesome, morbid or drear, than to stand in the bar of a pub with no beer”
2 - I Gotta Get Drunk – Little Willies
The Little Willies were a side project of songbird Norah Jones. Norah teamed up with a few of her friends to record a country music album, featuring a mixture of covers and original. This song is a cover of a Willie Nelson song. Norah’s version though is really enjoyable, and her voice does suit country music surprisingly well.
“There's a lot of doctors that tell me that I'd better start slowin' it down, But there's more old drunks than there are old doctors, So I guess we'd better have another round”
1 - Me and My Friend – Bob Evans
The untitled hidden track at the end of Bob’s second album “Suburban Songbook”, this song gets my vote as the best drinking/alcohol themed song. I think the reason why this one works so well for me is just how much I can relate to it. For me, most of the time that I spend drinking is really just to catch up with friends, and be more of a social experience. This theme I think is encapsulated perfectly in the lyrics to this song. It truly is a wonderful song.
As it might not be as well known as some of the other songs listed, I have put the lyrics in full below. I hope you enjoy it.
Me and my friend are walking to a bar on a cool winters evening underneath the stars
We'll find somewhere close we don't want to walk far
Nor do we want the hassle of a car
I'll order whisky and they'll order beer
The gourmet selection's intimidating here and sometimes what you know is the best way to steer
I say this ones my shout and my friend says cheers
This is some new joint that we've never been
Two lovers are fighting and making a scene
Some guy's setting up a karaoke machine
Let's find somewhere different where the carpet ain't clean
Me and my friend are walking to a bar on a cool winters evening underneath the stars
And we'll find somewhere new we don't want to walk far nor waste drinking money on a taxi car
My friends addicted to their mobile phone and they're constantly messaging someone back home with some inner fear of being alone
So for a short while my thoughts are my own
Walking round the corner a pub is in sight
Up there on the left just past those lights
We've been there before yeah that place is alright
Let's pull up a stool and settle in for the night
I love my friends I hope they love me too cos sometimes there is nothing better to do
Than to go out and get stuck in to a few
I'm gonna spend my time with a good friend like you
So there you have it, my second musical list down….keep the comments coming, and I will keep the lists coming.
And, I should also sign off the booze-o’s list by saying Cheers, Prost!, Bottoms Up, Slainte, Zum Wohl, L’Chaim, 'Op uw gezondheid', or whatever it is you choose to say!!
A Booze-o's musical top twenty - PART ONE
Originally posted on facebook, December 2010
Hi all. Thanks for the comments etc on the blues list that I posted earlier, so now its time for the next list.
Whenever I come home after going out for a drinks, or even when I have a drink at home, my wife likes to jokingly (I hope) refer to me as a booze-o. So given that the festive season is approaching, and tis the season for Christmas parties and the like, I thought it would be timely to present a booze-o’s top twenty tracks. It’s a fairly common subject in the world of music, so plenty of tracks to pick from. In addition, my friend Jeremy has just lent me a bunch of Tom Waits CD’s to listen to, and given Tom’s reputation, I think I am going to be hearing a lot more about this topic once I give them a spin!!
Please note that I am in no way condoning excessive consumption of alcohol, and if you are going to have lots of drinks this festive season, make sure you get someone else to drive.
When I discuss each track, I have also included a quote of the song lyrics.
Before we kick off the list, the first word needs to go to the great philosopher himself, Homer J Simpson: “When I was 17, I drank a very good beer, I drank some very good beer I purchased with a fake ID. My name was Brian McGee. I stayed up listening to Queen, When I was 17” ....hehehe...and now to the list.
20 - Nick Teen and Al K Hall – Rolf Harris.
A bit of a silly song to start with really. I know he’s a bit daggy, but I do like some of Rolf’s stuff for a bit of light hearted relief.
“So I said to Al, 'Al, be a pal, what do you really think?' He said to me, 'Boy, easy to see boy, smoking's kid's stuff, pour yourself a drink.' ….So quick as a wink, I took a drink, swigged a glassful down.First it seemed to hit me, then it turned around and bit me, And everything went all spinning round.”
19 - Red Red Wine – ub40
Continuing with the daggy theme, here is UB40 with their ode to red wine. I don’t have any of their albums, but they make frequent appearances on compilation CD’s, which is where I have this song.
“Red red wine I love you right from the start, Right from the start with all of my heart “
18 - One for My Baby (and one more for the road) – Frank Sinatra.
So from a novelty song, to British reggae, to crooning of the Chairman of the Board, Mr Sinatra. This is a nice little song, often covered, but to me, it almost has a bit of a sleazy bar-room feel to it.
“We’re drinking my friend, To the end of a brief episode, So make it one for my baby, And one more for the road”
17 - My Pal Alcohol. – Slim Dusty
I certainly am moving around genres in this list (alcohol knows no boundaries!!). Australia’s country music legend comes in at number 17, with his ode to alcohol, a straightforward little country song.
“good hard liquor is what I take, And my pal alcohol I love you so”
16 -Death of a Clown – Kinks
The Kinks are a great British band, and in this track Dave Davis sings all about a fading clown. It’s a lovely little song, and there is a lot more going on in this track than purely a drinking song.
“ I’m drowning my sorrows in whiskey and gin…So let's all drink to the death of a clown”
15 - All I Wanna Do – Sheryl Crow
Those that know me will know that I am a fan of Sheryl Crow’s music, and this is probably her most well known track. If this list was purely on the best song, this would be much higher in the list, but others to come represent the topic better. Nevertheless, all the action in this song takes place in a bar, where Sheryl and her drinking buddy are watching the surrounds, as they consume their drinks. It really is a great song.
“I like a good beer buzz early in the morning”
14 - Piano Man – Billy Joel
So, we move from Crow’s barroom story, to another song that is set in a bar. And what a song this one is. Once again, if this list was purely ranked on the best song, you wouldn’t see this one languishing at position 14. From start to finish, its just an amazing track, with all the characters in the bar described so well that you can instantly get a feel for what that bar would be like.
The other thing about this song, is that a lot of people associate the song with me (some will know exactly what I mean here, others will find that comment a bit cryptic), so there is no way I could make this list and not include Piano Man.
“Yes, they're sharing a drink they call loneliness, But it's better than drinkin' alone”
13 - Whiskey, You’re the Devil – The Pogues.
When it comes to songs about alcohol, there are some artists that you would expect to feature prominently, and the Pogues are certainly one of them. If you are not familiar with them, they were an Irish rock group that sort of combined traditional Irish folk with the punk movement, the end result being a unique sound that is brilliant. In this track, they even take some lyrics from the traditional folk song “Whiskey in the Jar” and blend it into this song. Great, great stuff.
“Whiskey, you're the devil, you're leadin' me astray”
12 - Cheap Wine – Cold Chisel.
So, from the Irish sounds of the Pogues, we move to the Aussie rock of Cold Chisel. Although this song has been done to death on classic rock style radio stations, you can’t deny its suitability for this list, with the lyrics discussing things like sitting on the beach drinking rocket fuel, a concoction of Bacardi, vodka and tequila.
“I'm another world away, But I always feel at home, with my, Cheap wine and a three-day growth”
11 - Alabama Song – The Doors
A great song from the Doors debut album, I was surprised to learn that it is not an original, and it actually has its origins in German opera. That said, it sounds nothing like an opera at all, and when Jim Morrison sings the classic line below, you know he means it! The keyboards really make it a great catchy tune though.
“Well, show me the way, To the next whisky bar”
So there, you have it, part one of my look at drinking/alcohol songs. Please post any comments, thoughts, theories, suggestions, omissions, anything you like, and I will reveal my top ten, probably tomorrow...
Hi all. Thanks for the comments etc on the blues list that I posted earlier, so now its time for the next list.
Whenever I come home after going out for a drinks, or even when I have a drink at home, my wife likes to jokingly (I hope) refer to me as a booze-o. So given that the festive season is approaching, and tis the season for Christmas parties and the like, I thought it would be timely to present a booze-o’s top twenty tracks. It’s a fairly common subject in the world of music, so plenty of tracks to pick from. In addition, my friend Jeremy has just lent me a bunch of Tom Waits CD’s to listen to, and given Tom’s reputation, I think I am going to be hearing a lot more about this topic once I give them a spin!!
Please note that I am in no way condoning excessive consumption of alcohol, and if you are going to have lots of drinks this festive season, make sure you get someone else to drive.
When I discuss each track, I have also included a quote of the song lyrics.
Before we kick off the list, the first word needs to go to the great philosopher himself, Homer J Simpson: “When I was 17, I drank a very good beer, I drank some very good beer I purchased with a fake ID. My name was Brian McGee. I stayed up listening to Queen, When I was 17” ....hehehe...and now to the list.
20 - Nick Teen and Al K Hall – Rolf Harris.
A bit of a silly song to start with really. I know he’s a bit daggy, but I do like some of Rolf’s stuff for a bit of light hearted relief.
“So I said to Al, 'Al, be a pal, what do you really think?' He said to me, 'Boy, easy to see boy, smoking's kid's stuff, pour yourself a drink.' ….So quick as a wink, I took a drink, swigged a glassful down.First it seemed to hit me, then it turned around and bit me, And everything went all spinning round.”
19 - Red Red Wine – ub40
Continuing with the daggy theme, here is UB40 with their ode to red wine. I don’t have any of their albums, but they make frequent appearances on compilation CD’s, which is where I have this song.
“Red red wine I love you right from the start, Right from the start with all of my heart “
18 - One for My Baby (and one more for the road) – Frank Sinatra.
So from a novelty song, to British reggae, to crooning of the Chairman of the Board, Mr Sinatra. This is a nice little song, often covered, but to me, it almost has a bit of a sleazy bar-room feel to it.
“We’re drinking my friend, To the end of a brief episode, So make it one for my baby, And one more for the road”
17 - My Pal Alcohol. – Slim Dusty
I certainly am moving around genres in this list (alcohol knows no boundaries!!). Australia’s country music legend comes in at number 17, with his ode to alcohol, a straightforward little country song.
“good hard liquor is what I take, And my pal alcohol I love you so”
16 -Death of a Clown – Kinks
The Kinks are a great British band, and in this track Dave Davis sings all about a fading clown. It’s a lovely little song, and there is a lot more going on in this track than purely a drinking song.
“ I’m drowning my sorrows in whiskey and gin…So let's all drink to the death of a clown”
15 - All I Wanna Do – Sheryl Crow
Those that know me will know that I am a fan of Sheryl Crow’s music, and this is probably her most well known track. If this list was purely on the best song, this would be much higher in the list, but others to come represent the topic better. Nevertheless, all the action in this song takes place in a bar, where Sheryl and her drinking buddy are watching the surrounds, as they consume their drinks. It really is a great song.
“I like a good beer buzz early in the morning”
14 - Piano Man – Billy Joel
So, we move from Crow’s barroom story, to another song that is set in a bar. And what a song this one is. Once again, if this list was purely ranked on the best song, you wouldn’t see this one languishing at position 14. From start to finish, its just an amazing track, with all the characters in the bar described so well that you can instantly get a feel for what that bar would be like.
The other thing about this song, is that a lot of people associate the song with me (some will know exactly what I mean here, others will find that comment a bit cryptic), so there is no way I could make this list and not include Piano Man.
“Yes, they're sharing a drink they call loneliness, But it's better than drinkin' alone”
13 - Whiskey, You’re the Devil – The Pogues.
When it comes to songs about alcohol, there are some artists that you would expect to feature prominently, and the Pogues are certainly one of them. If you are not familiar with them, they were an Irish rock group that sort of combined traditional Irish folk with the punk movement, the end result being a unique sound that is brilliant. In this track, they even take some lyrics from the traditional folk song “Whiskey in the Jar” and blend it into this song. Great, great stuff.
“Whiskey, you're the devil, you're leadin' me astray”
12 - Cheap Wine – Cold Chisel.
So, from the Irish sounds of the Pogues, we move to the Aussie rock of Cold Chisel. Although this song has been done to death on classic rock style radio stations, you can’t deny its suitability for this list, with the lyrics discussing things like sitting on the beach drinking rocket fuel, a concoction of Bacardi, vodka and tequila.
“I'm another world away, But I always feel at home, with my, Cheap wine and a three-day growth”
11 - Alabama Song – The Doors
A great song from the Doors debut album, I was surprised to learn that it is not an original, and it actually has its origins in German opera. That said, it sounds nothing like an opera at all, and when Jim Morrison sings the classic line below, you know he means it! The keyboards really make it a great catchy tune though.
“Well, show me the way, To the next whisky bar”
So there, you have it, part one of my look at drinking/alcohol songs. Please post any comments, thoughts, theories, suggestions, omissions, anything you like, and I will reveal my top ten, probably tomorrow...
I got the Blues - Part Two
Originally posted on facebook - late November 2010
10 – Mr E’s Beautiful Blues – The Eels.
This is the only Eels song I know, as it appeared on one of the compilation CD’s from the Panel. I don’t really know what its about, and maybe I am taking it out of context, but it just seems to put me in a good mood when I hear it, I think it’s the line “goddam right it’s a beautiful day” that features in the chorus.
9 – Goldfields Blues – Tim Rogers.
Tim is back, this time with an entry from his album "Spit Polish". I find this song very catchy, as Mr Rogers sings about heading across to WA on a plane, with a bar tab running. Great stuff.
8 – Singing in Vietnam Talking Blues – Johnny Cash.
If you aren’t familiar with this song, then the title of it pretty much sums up what it is. It is an incredibly simple song, but I find it quite moving. During the Vietnam War, Cash and his wife June went across to perform for the troops, and delivered in spoken word, Cash talks about the experience, and how scared they were, and how they would spend their days at the hospital talking to the injured, then perform at night. For some reason, it just really gets under my skin, a very powerful track. And for those of you that like Johnny Cash, you may not have seen the last of him on this list!!
7 - This Is Not a Song, It's an Outburst: Or, The Establishment Blues –
Rodriguez.
I have already talked about Rodriguez (see number 16), but this song is a cracker, probably accurately described as an outburst. Check out the opening lines to get the general drift of the song:
“The mayor hides the crime rate, council woman hesitates , Public gets irate but forget the vote date , Weatherman complaining, predicted sun, it's raining, Everyone's protesting, boyfriend keeps suggesting, you're not like all of the rest.”
6 – Summertime Blues – Eddie Cochran.
What a song!! What a great guitar hook!! What else can I say? This song just sums up the frustrations of being young perfectly. I love the part where he turns to his congressman for help, but is refused because he is too young to vote. Great, great stuff.
I know, the suspense is probably killing you, so here it is, the top five blues songs:
5 – Cocaine Blues – Johnny Cash.
I can’t really put my finger on what it is I like about this song, given the lyrics discuss some irresponsible behaviour, including a very poor attitude to woman (and ultimately shooting a woman!). But I think its Cash’s vocal delivery that does it for me, it really makes you get into the mind and understand the character that he is singing in, great stuff, with the Tennessee Three’s trademark rhythm keeping time.
4 – Yer Blues – The Beatles.
Who would have thought a song with such morbid lyrics (eg. “I’m lonely, wanna die”, “feel so suicidal, even hate my rock n roll”) would sound so good? But that’s what you get when you talk about the Beatles. A great blues song, that suits the “anything goes” vibe of the White Album perfectly!
3- Roadhouse Blues – The Doors.
Another great blues rock song, with Jim Morrison’s great vocals being showcased. One of the Doors best.
2- Folsom Prison Blues – Johnny Cash.
Johnny’s third entry in this list is his best. Despite borrowing heavily (in melody and even some lyrics) from a little known Gordon Jenkins song “Crescent City Blues”, “Folsom Prison Blues” is a gem of a song, written in such a way that it elicits sympathy for an inmate who “shot a man in Reno, just to watch him die”. The song perfectly describes the frustrations of prison life, juxtaposed with the train the prisoner can hear. Although the prisoner hypothesizes about what the train passengers are doing (“they’re probably drinking coffee and smoking big cigars”), it’s the freedom they have that he really yearns, demonstrated by the fact that the train moves along, whilst the prisoner must stay still, behind the walls. This perfectly sums up the loss of freedom that comes with being in prison
1- Subterranean Homesick Blues – Bob Dylan.
The lead track on “Bringing It All Back Home” gets my vote as the best “blues” track. From its innovative film clip, to Bob’s frantic rambling of lyrics (including the brilliant line “you don’t need a weatherman to know which way the wind blows”), to the great tune that it is set to, its just an amazingly enjoyable listen.
So there it is, my first musical list. I hope you enjoyed it. Next list will be coming up soon....
Go Blues!!!
10 – Mr E’s Beautiful Blues – The Eels.
This is the only Eels song I know, as it appeared on one of the compilation CD’s from the Panel. I don’t really know what its about, and maybe I am taking it out of context, but it just seems to put me in a good mood when I hear it, I think it’s the line “goddam right it’s a beautiful day” that features in the chorus.
9 – Goldfields Blues – Tim Rogers.
Tim is back, this time with an entry from his album "Spit Polish". I find this song very catchy, as Mr Rogers sings about heading across to WA on a plane, with a bar tab running. Great stuff.
8 – Singing in Vietnam Talking Blues – Johnny Cash.
If you aren’t familiar with this song, then the title of it pretty much sums up what it is. It is an incredibly simple song, but I find it quite moving. During the Vietnam War, Cash and his wife June went across to perform for the troops, and delivered in spoken word, Cash talks about the experience, and how scared they were, and how they would spend their days at the hospital talking to the injured, then perform at night. For some reason, it just really gets under my skin, a very powerful track. And for those of you that like Johnny Cash, you may not have seen the last of him on this list!!
7 - This Is Not a Song, It's an Outburst: Or, The Establishment Blues –
Rodriguez.
I have already talked about Rodriguez (see number 16), but this song is a cracker, probably accurately described as an outburst. Check out the opening lines to get the general drift of the song:
“The mayor hides the crime rate, council woman hesitates , Public gets irate but forget the vote date , Weatherman complaining, predicted sun, it's raining, Everyone's protesting, boyfriend keeps suggesting, you're not like all of the rest.”
6 – Summertime Blues – Eddie Cochran.
What a song!! What a great guitar hook!! What else can I say? This song just sums up the frustrations of being young perfectly. I love the part where he turns to his congressman for help, but is refused because he is too young to vote. Great, great stuff.
I know, the suspense is probably killing you, so here it is, the top five blues songs:
5 – Cocaine Blues – Johnny Cash.
I can’t really put my finger on what it is I like about this song, given the lyrics discuss some irresponsible behaviour, including a very poor attitude to woman (and ultimately shooting a woman!). But I think its Cash’s vocal delivery that does it for me, it really makes you get into the mind and understand the character that he is singing in, great stuff, with the Tennessee Three’s trademark rhythm keeping time.
4 – Yer Blues – The Beatles.
Who would have thought a song with such morbid lyrics (eg. “I’m lonely, wanna die”, “feel so suicidal, even hate my rock n roll”) would sound so good? But that’s what you get when you talk about the Beatles. A great blues song, that suits the “anything goes” vibe of the White Album perfectly!
3- Roadhouse Blues – The Doors.
Another great blues rock song, with Jim Morrison’s great vocals being showcased. One of the Doors best.
2- Folsom Prison Blues – Johnny Cash.
Johnny’s third entry in this list is his best. Despite borrowing heavily (in melody and even some lyrics) from a little known Gordon Jenkins song “Crescent City Blues”, “Folsom Prison Blues” is a gem of a song, written in such a way that it elicits sympathy for an inmate who “shot a man in Reno, just to watch him die”. The song perfectly describes the frustrations of prison life, juxtaposed with the train the prisoner can hear. Although the prisoner hypothesizes about what the train passengers are doing (“they’re probably drinking coffee and smoking big cigars”), it’s the freedom they have that he really yearns, demonstrated by the fact that the train moves along, whilst the prisoner must stay still, behind the walls. This perfectly sums up the loss of freedom that comes with being in prison
1- Subterranean Homesick Blues – Bob Dylan.
The lead track on “Bringing It All Back Home” gets my vote as the best “blues” track. From its innovative film clip, to Bob’s frantic rambling of lyrics (including the brilliant line “you don’t need a weatherman to know which way the wind blows”), to the great tune that it is set to, its just an amazingly enjoyable listen.
So there it is, my first musical list. I hope you enjoyed it. Next list will be coming up soon....
Go Blues!!!
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