By Ryan   Sun, Dec 14, 2008

By   Tue, Nov 18, 2008

If you didn't get enough of Motley Crue this summer in their highly successful Crue Fest, no worries, they are out on the road again in 2009! They will again be supported by some of today's hottest acts: Hinder, Theory of a Deadman and the winner of Guitar Center's contest: Last Vegas.

Tickets go on sale November 21st through ticketmaster but, presales are available if you are a member of www.Motley.com or are an American Express card member.

Theory of a Deadman are also offering pre-sales if you add them as a "friend" on myspace: www.myspace.com/theoryofadeadman

If you haven't caught the Crue in concert before....GO! 

By Ryan   Sat, Dec 13, 2008

By Ryan   Fri, Dec 05, 2008

By   Thu, Dec 04, 2008

Its been five years since we've seen legendary band Fleetwood Mac take the stage but, they are planning to again in 2009. The UNLEASHED tour is scheduled to take flight on March 1, 2009 in Pittsburgh PA at the Mellon Arena. So far only fifteen dates have been announced but, more are sure to follow for the spring and summer.

I am an avid follower of Fleetwood Mac and Stevie Nicks. They are incredible to behold in concert. I urge you to witness one of the most influenial bands in rock history. Lindsay Buckingham is a genius guitar player who will leave you breathless during  his guitar solo.

I cannot delve into  how much Stevie's voice touches my soul. The woman is truly magical to hear as well as watch when she is on stage. I know she is not always the critics favorite. But, you know what I say to critics? Its the fan's voices that count not yours and Stevie has some loyal fans who have not only supported her in her career with Fleetwood but, shot her to a icon in the female rock world in her solo career.

Mick Fleetwood brings percussion to a whole new level as he leaves his set behind and plays..well himself on stage. The man has an abundance of energy that is simply contagious and some of this younger generation should take lessons from him.

Christine McVie has retired and she will be missed desperately. She has such a light sweet voice. So different then Stevie's and brings such a different element to the songs. You will be missed on this tour Christine.

This tour will be in conjunction with the re-release of Fleetwood Mac's masterpeice "Rumours." It will be a CD/DVD box set and will include previously un-released tracks and video footage from the band's reconding sessions and performances. It is any music lovers must have.

Tickets go on sale December 15th at www.ticketmaster.com

Fleetwood Mac itinerary:
(Dates are subject to change.)

By   Wed, Dec 03, 2008

The Grammy  Nominations are out

In the Rock / Hard Rock Categories;

 Best Rock Performance By A Duo Or Group With Vocals
(For duo, group or collaborative performances, with vocals. Singles or Tracks only.)

• Rock N Roll Train
  AC/DC
  [Columbia]
• Violet Hill
  Coldplay
  Track from: Viva La Vida Or Death And All His Friends
  [Capitol Records]
• Long Road Out Of Eden
  Eagles
  Track from: Long Road Out Of Eden
  [Eagles Recording Company II]
• Sex On Fire
  Kings Of Leon
  [RCA Records]
• House Of Cards
  Radiohead
  Track from: In Rainbows
  [TBD Records]

Best Hard Rock Performance
(For solo, duo, group or collaborative performances, with vocals. Singles or Tracks only.)

• Inside The Fire
  Disturbed
  Track from: Indestructible
  [Reprise]
• Visions
  Judas Priest
  Track from: Nostradamus
  [Epic]
• Wax Simulacra
  The Mars Volta
  [Universal Motown]
• Saints Of Los Angeles
  Mötley Crüe
  Track from: Saints Of Los Angeles
  [Motley Records/Eleven Seven Music]
• Lords Of Salem
  Rob Zombie
  Track from: Zombie Live
  [Geffen/UMe]

Best Metal Performance
(For solo, duo, group or collaborative performances, with vocals. Singles or Tracks only.)

• Heroes Of Our Time
  DragonForce
  [Roadrunner Records]
• Nostradamus
  Judas Priest
  Track from: Nostradamus
  [Epic]
• My Apocalypse
  Metallica
  Track from: Death Magnetic
  [Warner Bros.]
• Under My Thumb
  Ministry
  Track from: Cover Up
  [Megaforce Records]
• Psychosocial
  Slipknot
  [Roadrunner Records]

Best Rock Instrumental Performance
(For solo, duo, group or collaborative performances, without vocals. Includes Rock, Hard Rock and Metal. Singles or Tracks only.)

• Castellorizon
  David Gilmour
  Track from: Live In Gdansk
  [Columbia]
• Suicide & Redemption
  Metallica
  Track from: Death Magnetic
  [Warner Bros.]
• 34 Ghosts I-IV
  Nine Inch Nails
  Track from: Ghosts I-IV
  [The Null Corporation]
• Hope (Live For The Art Of Peace)
  Rush
  Track from: Songs For Tibet: The Art Of Peace
  [Art of Peace Foundation]
• Peaches En Regalia
  Zappa Plays Zappa
  [Strobosonic/Razor & Tie Entertainment]

Best Rock Album
(Vocal or Instrumental. Includes Hard Rock and Metal.)

• Viva La Vida Or Death And All His Friends
  Coldplay
  [Capitol Records]
• Rock N Roll Jesus
  Kid Rock
  [Atlantic]
• Only By The Night
  Kings Of Leon
  [RCA Records]
• Death Magnetic
  Metallica
  [Warner Bros.]
• Consolers Of The Lonely
  The Raconteurs
  [Third Man/Warner Bros.]

There it is folks! Now tune in Feb. 8 2009 so you can see if your favorite artist wins! Check your local Tv listings for times, channel etc.

By   Mon, Dec 15, 2008

In today's technologically advanced age, music is literally at our fingertips. No longer do we have to buy an entire CD, or if you are from my generation, a cassette tape or wait endlessly on the radio to hear your favorite music.

In this day of ipods and MP3 players all you have to do is head to your computer desk to find, buy and download just about any song that you wish.  But, I know I'm not telling anyone something they don't already know. However, it is because of this wonderful way to access the music you want, anytime you want, it is how I am able to do this particular review.

The name DJ Ashba has become a common name in today's rock world, due to his partnership with Nikki Sixx and James Michael to create the genius that is Sixx:A.M.  But, it is further back into DJ's musical career that I'm currently drawn to.

Back in 2004, DJ hooked up with Kyle Spicer (vocals), John Younger (bass) and Bones Elias (drums) to form the band ASHBA.  And from this EP is the music that I wish to showcase.

I of course, was drawn into DJ's sound after hearing Sixx:A.M. and from the first time I heard The Heroin Diaries, I wanted to hear more of his work.  So in following the proverbial yellow brick road of his sound, I was first drawn to his work with Beautiful Creatures.  And in talking and getting to know other Ashbaites, I soon learned of his music with Ashba, starting with Love Always Lets Me Down, Someday and Wonder.

It was these three songs, with their stories of love lost and heartache along with desire and longing, mingled with strong melodies and vocals that cut right to your soul that drove me to find other songs put out by this amazing foursome.  DJ's guitar work is nothing less that what we have seen in his work with both Beautiful Creatures and Sixx:A.M.  And like his playing in both of the other bands, he pours his soul through the tips of his fingers.  Mingled with Kyle Spicer's haunting vocals it is a combination that as Guy Fieri says, "is money".

Respect and Break Everything takes a harder hit with both the lyrics and bone crunching bass and drums and guitar work as brilliant and hot as fireworks, while Blind takes more of a melodious turn with and undercurrent of force, mixed with impacting lyrics, driving home a power ballad of momentous proportion. 

All in all the music of Ashba falls into line with that of DJ's other projects in the category of "I can listen to this and NEVER get tired of it".  Songs from this EP sit in my myspace music player next to Wish and Wasted by BC and  Dead Man's Ballet and Life is Beautiful by Sixx:A.M.  And you can rest assured that if it hails from Ashbaland, you are not in anyway going to go wrong.

I have to give credit where credit is due and give thanks to Road Crew's very own Ang as she was instrumental in helping me dig up the goodies for this review!!  Thanks Ang, you so rock!

http://www.electrovoice.com/pressreleases/222.html

By   Sat, Dec 06, 2008

www.sixxammusic.com

1.  X-Mas In Hell (Live)
2.  Pray For Me (Live)
3.  Heart Failure (Live)
4.  Intermission (Live)
5.  Dead Man's Ballet (Live)
6.  Tomorrow (Live)
7.  Accidents Can Happen (Live)
8.  Life Is Beautiful (Live)

By   Sat, Dec 06, 2008

To me, Buckcherry is the PERFECT band. You can put on a Buckcherry CD at a party and there is something on it for everyone. You have your heavy partier anthem in "Lit Up", the bad boy begging for his girl back with "Sorry", Oh yes, all of us girls swoon when Josh sings "I love how you kiss, I love all your sounds, and baby the way you make my world go round. And I just wanted to say I'm sorry...." Oh, and the chorus of guys and gals who love to sing "Hey, You're crazy bitch!" always gets the party going....

Well, Buckcherry continues to appeal to all their fans with Black Butterfly. "Rescue Me", "Imminent Bail Out", and "Fallout" are heavy hitters. While "Don't Go Away" tugs at your heartstrings. "Rose" is simply irresistible and could easily find itself on the top 40. Of course Buckcherry has to have a party anthem on their album and Black Butterfly is no exception. "Too Drunk" pokes fun at the fact at having too much fun with the bottle leads to not having fun with the ladies later.....I'll leave it at that. Get the CD, you won't be disappointed!

Keith Nelson plays double duty on Black Butterfly. Not only is he one of the guitarists for Buckcherry but, he also co-produced the CD along with Marti Frederiksen. Josh Todd is an amazing frontman and vocalist, Stevie D also plays guitar, Jimmy Ashhurst on bass, and Xavvier Muriel on drums. I had the pleasure of seeing and photographing Buckcherry this past summer at Cruefest. They put on an amazing show. The energy they expel is phenomenal. I would strongly encourage you to see them live if you get the opportunity, which you can; They have announced a 2009 tour with Avenged Sevenfold and Papa Roach. Check them out on myspace at: www.myspace.com/buckcherry or their website at: www.Buckcherry.com where you can also get more information about their CD or upcoming tour dates.

By   Mon, Nov 24, 2008

Guns ‘N Roses   ^{♫♫♫♫♪}

Chinese Democracy

2008 Geffen Records                                                  

     “Chinese Democracy”, the first single from the long awaited Guns ‘N Roses album wet all our whistles with teasing anticipation of what would come. And after fourteen years of empty promises, Axl Rose finally delivers.

     I don’t intend to make digs about expecting to see democracy in China before Chinese Democracy; it’s too easy. Besides, it looks like China is already taking offense to the title track. While the lyrics might point an antagonizing finger at the Country’s authoritarian rule of its people, I perceive it as a killer song with a great title.

     Axl’s penchant for epic songwriting is fluent throughout this album. It is exemplified in tracks like “Street of Dreams” and “There was a Time”. The latter of which, I could easily see gracing a James Bond soundtrack. The guitars, while cleaner than I’d hoped, further fuel this epic feel with the precision of every track.

     Unprecedented time and cost are invested into this album, with it come lofty expectations.  The fans won’t be disappointed.

     “Chinese Democracy” and “Shackler’s Revenge” have a reminiscence of Guns ‘N Roses circa 1989, opening, what is actually a great Axl Rose album. The legitimacy of this as a Guns ‘N Roses album is fuzzy for me. There have been too many cooks in the kitchen. And the Cheeseburger I expected came out looking more like a Filet Oscar. Good thing is; the Filet tastes a hell of a lot better.

By   Wed, Nov 19, 2008

Nickelback   ^♫♫♫♫

Dark Horse

2008 Roadrunner Records

I wasn’t sure what to say about a band that managed to ride top positions on U.S. and Canadian charts simultaneously, and sold 500,000 CDs in a time when CD sales are depressingly low.

Anything Nickelback does after All the Right Reasons is gravy. Right?

Yeah. That and much more!

Dark Horse is a great Nickelback album. Only time will tell if it will rival the success of All the Right Reasons. But they definitely followed that same formula.

“Something in Your Mouth” forcefully opens the album. Setting the tone with Chad Kroeger’s direct lyrics to make this and several other songs much more interesting then the riffs would be otherwise. There isn’t a hidden message anywhere in this album. Which works very well for the band. They sound their best when all pretension is left out.

“S.E.X.”, “Next Go Around” and “Shakin’ Hands” are straightforward, hand you your ass, rock songs. And for that, they will be on heavy rotation in bars everywhere.

Buy it now at www.Nickelback.com 

By   Mon, Dec 15, 2008

The Skänks + Radio Havanna, 12/5 -08, Haffas, Ludvika, Sweden

WHY do I always show up just before the sound check? Seems I have some sort of strange aura, “Hey, Tess is in the building, let’s sound check!”. This happens to me every time I’m going to a show, no matter how late I show up.

For this particular show though, I was right on time. It was held at a small youth center, called Haffas. Haffas is Swedish slang for “Getting arrested”, and somehow I’ve always found that amusing.

As I was walking in, I suddenly remembered I hadn’t been there since 2005. That’s almost 4 years. I was a teenager back then, and enjoyed hanging out, listening to music, having coffee and playing pool. Since then, a lot of things have changed, but my love for live music have not.

An hour later than what was announced, The Skänks take the stage. They look good, but the sound during the first song is pretty much awful. A shame, since I suspect I could like this if everything was like it should.
It’s very clear all through the show that this stage is too small for them. They’re all over it, and not in a good way. During the second song, the bass player jumps down into the crowd. The only problem was that THERE WAS NO CROWD.

I did my best to forget about the bad sound, and give you guys something on the band, not just complain. As I was doing that, I realized the singer have a very distinctive voice. He could probably growl away in any given death metal band, and it’s exciting to hear a voice like that being used like this.

The guitars sound good, the few times I can actually hear them over the bass. That was also something that really bothered me., since I was SURE there was pretty good melodies somewhere.

What really amazes me about this band though, is their drummer. He shows pure talent, and the more I listen, the more I think he could be doing something so much bigger than this.

The sound gets a bit better with every song, and in the end it’s actually starting to sound quite good. They don’t do any of that small talk with the audience though, just “And the next song is called…” over and over again. As they was preparing for the encore, the drummer said “Do we really know that song?”, and that was the most spontaneous thing that happened during their show.

I really think they could have done much better, with better sound, bigger stage, and a bigger audience… And one day, I’d like to see that.

As Radio Havanna is to take the stage, I am starting to fill with fear. All around me the Mohawks are growing, the audience is wearing kicker boots and leather jackets, and I’m starting to hear the word “Punk” all around me. Punk was never my scene, and never will be. My punk knowledge stops at Sex Pistols, and I never thought I’d be stretching it any further. I decide to stay anyway, even though I had never heard the band, and was pretty much terrified.

They get on, and my fear starts to subside when I look at them just to notice their singer looks like a mix between a young Johnny Rotten and a kid I used to go to school with. In that case, it just can’t be as scary as I think. They have hardly started the first song when I realize my decision to stay was good.

They play on a completely different level than the Skänks, they have melody in their songs, and even the background singing sounds like something they’ve actually thought about, instead of standing in the back making noise.  It’s pretty obvious these guys know their stuff.

Since they are Germans, and all the songs they sing is in German, I can’t understand a word, and that actually lets me focus more on the music, and not just the lyrics. All in all, they are a nice surprise for a girl like me.

The bass player really knows how to handle his gear, and the guitar player makes sound that pretty much blows me away. From time to time, I find myself looking at his hands, trying to figure out how he does it, but I can’t. The drummer is beating his kit halfway to death, and that is something I really appreciate. The singer’s voice reminds me of the singer of Goo Goo Dolls, but I’ve never heard that guy use his voice like this. Easily put, I’m loving this.

In the middle of the gig, they suddenly start playing a cover of Outkast’s “Aisha”. That pretty much threw me off the couch I was sitting on. Hip hop, gone pop, gone punk? I never thought I’d see that, and I NEVER thought I’d like it.

I have to say, these guys are growing on me, more and more with each song they play.  They say this is their first show in Sweden, and I feel proud to have been a part of that. To see such a young band the first time they confront us boring Swedes, and still they seem to enjoy it… That is something very special to me.

They are working that tiny stage like it’s a huge arena, and they do all that spontaneous small talk the audience needs to feel special and chosen, even though it’s done by Germans speaking English to Swedes. As they get of the stage, I have that very special feeling I always get after enjoying a gig. It feels like happiness, mixed with sadness about it being over, and the urge for more.

I just wish I could have seen them in a bigger arena. I suspect these guys could be really big, and when they are played all over the globe, remember who told you first!

If you want to hear these bands, go to www.myspace.com/theskanksswe for The Skänks, and www.myspace.com/radiohavanna or www.radiohavanna.de for Radio Havanna.

By Ryan   Fri, Dec 12, 2008

By   Tue, Dec 02, 2008

Rudy Sarzo has a new book:  "Off the Rails: Aboard the Crazy Train in the Blizzard of Ozz" It chronicles his time with Ozzy and Randy Rhoads both on the road and off. Rudy is a true legend of rock. Who wouldn't want to spend some time jamming with the man or writing a song with him perhaps?

Well, now is your chance! To celebrate the release of his book, Rudy is launching a Kompoz contest for both musicians and music lovers!

For Musicians:
You and Rudy create the tunes. Thats right, you read right. Rudy plays bass and you do the resst. If your stuff kicks ass and you win the best song, you will be featured on RudySarzo.com and Kompoz.com as well as win some awesome prizes listed below.

For Music Fans:
Can't play a guitar or write music but, you still want all those great prizes right?! Well, all hope isn't lost. Refer other musicians and fans to Kompoz.com and you can still qualify if you refer the most new members during the contest period.

Prizes:
Jackson Randy Rhoads RR24 Guitar $1,799.99
Peavey Rudy Sarzo Bass, Cirrus (TM) 4 Bubinga $2,089.99
Ampeg Amp (To Be Announced)
Line 6 Pocket Pod $179.99
M-Audio Fast Track Ultra 8R $629.95
Pro Tools M-Powered 7.4 $299.95
Sony Acid Pro 7 $299.95
Sony Rudy Sarzo: Workingman's Bass Loop Library $59.95
Kompoz All Over The Map CDs $9.97
Learn to Play the SmartWay! Gift Certificates $25
PrintMusicOnline Gift Certificates $25

Check out Rudy Sarzo at: RudySarzo.com on Myspace at: www.myspace.com/officialrudysarzosite or Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/people/Rudy_Sarzo/1342856233

By   Mon, Nov 24, 2008

As the crowd fills to capacity at the Hollywood Palladium, the anticipation of the winners of The Guitar Centers Make Rock History Contest, The Last Vegas, builds. The lights go out and The Last Vegas takes the stage. With Danny Smash on base, the wailing guitars of Adam Arling and John Wator and the pounding drums of Nate Arling, Chad Cherry took the stage with dramatic flair. If anything, these guys really new how to work the crowd. They have that sound that you grew to love in the 70's and 80's and the great stage presence you come to expect from a veteran band. It's no wonder they have been featured on Guitar Hero 2, Nascar.com, NBC Sports, MTV and as the official music of Kyle Busch Motor Sports. You would never know that this was a band that had to win a contest to open for Motley Crue. The future for hard rockin Rock and Roll looks good. Go check them out at www.thelastvegas.com or http://www.myspace.com/thelastvegasor catch them live on tour with Motley Crue, Hinder, and Theory of a Deadman in early 2009!!!!

 Listen to "I'm Bad" by the Last Vegas and read what Nikki Sixx has to say about this winning band who now gets to tour with Motley Crue! CLICK HERE!

By   Mon, Nov 24, 2008

VH1 Classic has finally decided that us "metalheads" deserve a talk show of our own. And who better to be the host then a walking encyclopedia of hard rock/heavy metal, Eddie Trunk. Eddie isnt alone in this seat, along side him are two very entertaining comedians and fellow metal fans, Jim Florentine and Don Jamieson. What Eddie brings to the show in trivial knowledge, Jim and Don bring laughs. The three of these men together make the show seem less like an interview with bland repeated questions and more like 'out for a beer' talk with whomever the guest happens to be.

The 30 minute long episodes are packed full of music tidbits, as well as audience participation, Jim and Don even go to the street to include rock fans, at times. Stump the Trunk is a segment where the audience is given the chance to win undisclosed musical items by asking Eddie a trivia question. The show promises to be full of entertainment with lots to see and possibly even learn about. However, what you won't see are music videos.

Many of you already know who Eddie Trunk is, but for those of you who dont, he is a lifelong fan of hard rock/heavy metal. He has dedicated his life to furthering his career in music, and has been quite succesful at it. In 1976, he was introduced to a record by a band called Kiss, and his obsession began from there. Eddie spent his senior year of high school writing record reviews for the school paper and even worked for the local college radio station. After high school, the lifelong resident of New Jersey, worked for the local record shop, across the street from his favorite NJ radio station. It was there that he got to know many of the station's disc jockeys and even some of the management. When they would come in to the shop Eddie would tip off the program director to bands he thought they should be playing, earning him the title of resident metalhead of the record shop. After being ignored by the program director, Eddie sought out a pirate radio station, illegally broadcasting out of someone's basement. In 1986, Eddie was offered a job working for Megaforce Records, one time home of Anthrax, Metallica, Overkill and Eddie's good friend Ace Frehley. He then went on to become the Vice President of the label by age 25. As the years passed, Eddie continues to prusue his love of music and has become a staple to VH1/VH1 Classic, as well as XM satellite radio's Boneyard. He was even honored by the legendary band, Judas Priest in 2008, for 25 years in hard rock/ heavy metal radio.

Already only two episodes in, VH1 has signed on for another season. You can catch a new episode every Saturday night @ 11pm ET/PT (see schedule below). If you miss it, no worries, VH1 will no doubt, be airing reruns all through out the week. Nov. 15th 11pm ET/PT *Premiere/Pilot* - Lita Ford Nov. 22nd 11pm ET/PT Yngwie Malmsteen Nov. 29th 11pm ET/PT Twisted Sister (Dee Snider and Jay Jay French) Dec. 6th 11pm ET/PT Mike Portnoy of Dream Theater Dec. 13th 11pm ET/PT Mike Piazza (Future HoF catcher for the NY Mets) along with AC/DC Dec. 20th 11pm ET/PT Ace Frehley of Kiss Dec. 27th 11pm ET/PT Rush (Geddy Lee and Alex Lifeson) Jan. 10th 11pm ET/PT *Best Of Special*

By   Wed, Nov 19, 2008

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By   Thu, May 21, 2009

By   Sat, Apr 04, 2009

By   Mon, Mar 09, 2009

By   Mon, Mar 09, 2009

By  

By   Fri, Jan 09, 2009

By   Fri, Jan 09, 2009

Wed, Dec 31, 2008

Well, the countdown is on as we are on the last official day of 2008.  It has been amazing year for me personally, as well as an amazing year for the rock world.  Of course the biggest event that leaps to my mind in the reuniting of the Crue and their amazing summer extravaganza: Cruefest.  I got to attend the show in St Louis and was blown away.  I'm excited about hitting on those facts during 2009.  I hope your 2008 was memorable and that your 2009 holds many great things in store for you.  But for now, let's get on with the New Year's Eve party edition of This Day In Rock.

The number one song in the US for the year 1955, based from jukebox plays and radio air time, according to Billboard Magazine, was Unchained Melody by Les Baxtor and his Orchestra.

In 1966, the number one hit to top the Billboard Hot 100, on this day, was a Neil Diamond song made popular by the Monkees.  None other than I'm A Believer.  Of course, I like the Shrek version myself...you be the judge.



VS



Fleetwood Mac was founded in 1967.  On December 31, 1974 the band marked their 10th line up change by asking Stevie Nicks and Lindsey Buckingham to join the band.



On this day in 1984, Def Leppard drummer Rick Allen while out driving with his girlfriend in his Corvette, found him self in a race against another driver that was almost detramental to his career.  Upon being thrown from the car, he lost his left arm.  Although doctors re-attatched the arm, within three days they had to remove it three days later.  As we all know, he came back to join the band a marvel to the rock world, using a special drum kit, enabling him to play with his feet.

In 2005 Welsh singer Tom Jones was knighted on this day, by Queen Elizabeth II.  I guess THAT'S what's new.....pussycat. *wink*



Well, I wish you all a very Happy New Year.  Please party responsibly, don't drink and drive, and if you're really bored, you can come hang out with me at DJ's Haunted Mansion. See ya next year!!

Tue, Dec 30, 2008

December 30th was a day of hellos, goodbyes, gold records and insanity. 

In 1967, the Beatles scored their 15th number one hit on the Billboard chart with Hello Goodbye.  The "B" side held their lowest ranked "B" side single I Am The Walrus, which only went to number 56.  Sad as that's one of my favorite Beatles tunes.

Emerson, Lake and Palmer got together in 1970.  Over an eight year stint they sold over 35 millions albums.  On this day in 1978, the band announced that they were splitting up.

When I was a kid, every weekend you would find me at the skating rink.  REVERSE SKATE!!  Of course, this was before roller blades and Galaga and Pac-Man were always hard to get in line for, along with Joust and Centipiede.  One of the biggest songs out that I remember skating to was by The J. Geils Band.  On this day in 1981, their album "Freeze-Frame" went Gold.

I hate reading about the tragic things that happen to rockers as I look for the facts to supply for this column.  As much as we love or hate a particular artist, we as fans should keep in mind that they are in fact only people.  People who have chosen to pursue the talents that lie within themselves and that they share with the world.  If they are able to take those talents to superstar status, does that give us any less reason to treat them with respect instead of insane motives?

In 1999 on this day, at approximatly 3 a.m. George Harrison's home was broken into and he was attacked by a 33 year old man from Liverpool.  Michael Abram stabbed Harrison multiple times in the chest.  Harrison's wife and son came to his aid, hitting Abram over the head with a lamp, and was able to restrain him until authorities could arrive.  Although Harrison endured a collapsed lung, he did recover from the injury.  Sadly, at trial, Abram would be found not guilty by reason of insanity.

Mon, Dec 29, 2008

It feels like it's been forever since I've been here writing anything.  But then, it was a busy time of year.  Christmas, time with family, and then of course, my youngest son turned 9 yesterday and my little brother's birthday is today.  December is one of the busiest times of year for me, and it seems like I can never get everything done or caught up afterwards.  I have decided to check into Cinn's "After Christmas Recovery Program".  Lot's of Rock Therapy!!!

Wow, December 29th was a quiet day in the history of rock.   I guess everyone was still messing with Christmas presents and hanging with family to do much.  And so, I only have a lonesome two facts for you today.  But just because there are only the two, I hope that you still enjoy them!

1968 marks the date of the first large Rock Festival to take place on the east coast.  Hallandale, FL hosted the Miami Festival (I don't get why it wasn't held in Miami since it's named after the town, but oookkk.) and 100,000 turned out for the event that spanned 3 days.  Tickets sold for six and seven dollars. (My eyes popped out of my head when I read that......oh for concert tickets to be that cheap in this day and age.....)

The most popular bands on the bill included:  Three Dog Night, Chuck Berry, Fleetwood Mac, Marvin Gaye, Joni Mitchell, The Turtles and Canned Heat.

In 1980 singer/songwriter who is best known (by me anyway) for the song Reason To Believe made famous by Rod Stewart, died of a heroin overdose in his apratment in Hollywood, CA.  He was 40 years old.

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Well, there they are, the tiny two, so be sure to check back tomorrow for the full sized edition of This Day In Rock, same rock time, same rock channel.

Tue, Dec 23, 2008

Merry Christmas!!!! I hope that you've gotten all the goodies that you wished for this year, UNLESS you found yourself on Santa's naughty list *wink* 

Today as a present from me, I'm throwing some Rockin Christmas videos your way!  As you're reading this, I am probably watching my soon to be 16 year old play hide and seek to find his Christmas present.  He's getting a 1990 Dodge Ram that's black and chrome....check my blog in the next few days for my Christmas Recap to see pics, etc.  And then I'm off to my grandmother's to spend Christmas with my very amazing, although extremely disfunctional family.

ENJOY!! AND MAY YOUR CHRISTMAS BE PEACEFUL AND BLESSED!!!

Wed, Dec 24, 2008

Can you believe it's Christmas Eve?  It seems like this year has just flown.  And I thought yeah, I could dig up facts today and tomorrow that deal with the 24th and 25th and what happend on those days in rock, BUT I decided that I'd give you a little bit of a poetical treat today and then you'll have to check back tomorrow to see what this Santa has left you for Christmas!

I LOVE the work of Tim Burton and The Nightmare Before Christmas, like many other people, is one of my favorite movies and soundtracks.  In looking for Christmas goodies for you, I ran across a video for the original poem narrated by Christopher Lee and could not wait to get this colum started so that I could share it with you.  I hope that you enjoy it as much as I did!!

Tue, Dec 23, 2008

Ahhhhhhhhh Disco......what would the world have been like without it?  Less comical in my personal opinion.  But everyone from the Bee Gees to Kiss jumped on that train during the 70's.  I just hope The Hustle doesn't get lodged in my brain and stuck there....sheesh.

In 1978, Rod Stewart was one of the many who hitched a ride on the Disco train with a single that would sit on top of the Billboard charts over an 18 week time period.  I'm sure you all know what song I'm referring to, even if you aren't a fan of the Disco era.  Need a little help?  Then check out the video below.  Just be careful that you don't catch yourself singing along.........

I have heard of some crazy fans.  You know, the ones that go overboard to get a star's attention.  Showering them with insane amounts of love and affection and physconess, but THIS story takes the cake.  In 1999 Chrisian Keleher cooked herself a frozen pizza, drank some root beer, started a load of laundry, and called her mother in New Jersy.  Sounds like a normal day at home right?  Well, it would have been had it been HER home instead of George Harrion's home in Maui.  She was arrested and chaged with burglary. 

The moral to the story:  If you want to do your dream star's laundry, don't help yourself to their frozen pizza, pop and make long distance calls on their bill.  Not a good idea.

And finally, I love this last fact as I'm into the Renaissance.  I love medieval history, so much to the point that I am a playtron at the Oklahoma Renaissance Festival here in Oklahoma.  Upon my wall are the coat of arms and family histories for both my husbands given name and my maiden name.  Upon celebrating our 15th wedding annivesary last year, we did so at the Castle of Muskogee and had a traditional Scottish handfasting.  Yes, it was in period dress....16th century period dress. 

I know I got a tad bit off course with that brief look into ME, but it kind of sets up WHY this next fact is so cool to me.  In 2002 the Collage Coat of Arms, formed in 1484, awarded Sir Paul McCartney with his own coat of arms. He had applied for his crest, which reflects his career with the Beatles, contains the motto Ecce Cor Meum (Behold My Heart), the title of a composition he composed, in 1997, which was the year he was knighted.  

I have included a link to a site which shows an image of the crest for those who are interested in seeing it's design.   Scroll to the bottom of the page for the image and it's description.

http://www.familynamesonline.com/royalaoa.html

One thing for sure, it's never boring in the rock world.  You never know what you're going to hear, read or see in this industry which like New York, never sleeps.

Mon, Dec 22, 2008

Stupid me....I didn't save while I was working, and the midst of having more than one window open on my laptop, I hit the back button on THIS page, the page where I tell you all the little things that I do, and in the midst of hitting the back button, I LOST everything that I had done.  And I was in the middle of the last fact which means, I was just about finished.  Ready to save this baby to draft.  And now, having really no idea what all I had typed before, I will have to start anew.  But, I am hoping that it will come back to me while I'm working it up.....again....This time, you can be sure I will save between facts so that I don't lose it all again.

So, with my rant about losing it out of the way, we'll start back in 1946.  This is the year that Cheep Tirck's baseball cap wearing guitarist Rick Nielson was born.

Elton John as always been one of my favorite musicians.  From the time that I was young and watched his performance on the Muppet Show to present day, I have always thought he was a musical genius.  And, I have passed my appreciation for his work down to my kids.  My youngest was even gifted with an Elton John's greatest hits CD in his stocking last year.  You see, even Santa likes good rock. 

On this day in 1973, Goodbye Yellow Brick Road was at the top of BOTH the US and UK charts, and BBC Radio 1 did a live broadcast of Elton's show at London's Hammersmith Odeon.

On a sad note, while walking his dog in his hometown of Broomfield, England, 50 year old lead singer for the Clash, Joe Strummer passed away due to heart failure.

Everyone has an opinion about online music downloads and file sharing. But in their efforts to surpress illegal downloading of songs, the music industry fell to a US Courts ruling that internet providers did not have to identify file sharers. 

I think Weird Al said it best in his song: Don't Download This Song, and as the embedding as been disabled by request, I thought I would at least hook you up with a link. *wink*

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=anCqrvOnx3s

Well, on that happy note, that will do it for me. And look....I got it all saved so that you could read it!!! AMAZING!!  Come find me in my blog, OR just come back tomorrow and I'll give you more This Day In Rock!

Fri, Dec 19, 2008

Today's This Day In Rock will be a bit shorter, but no less sweet with the three facts that I have for you today.

Going back to 1956, this day was a good day for Elvis Presley as he made chart history in the US by having 10 songs on the Billboard top 100 at the same time.  Of that list were Hound Dog and Don't Be Cruel.

The rumor mill of the music industry is unbleivable.  Don't believe me, then check this out.  In 1966, a radio station in Los Angeles announce that Mick Jagger was dead.  How, why, when?  Well, for some reason there was never any full explination as to why it was announced.  Could you imagine the havoc THAT rumor caused?

And finally I want to say I LOVE the First Amendment of the Constitution.  FREEDOM OF SPEECH.  And I'm sure Ozzy Osbourne will agree with that statement.  In 1986, a California Surpreme Court Judge refused to reinstate a lawsuit against him.  The parents of a teen who commited suicide claimed that the song Suicide Solution was the cause.  The judge informed the parents that he was protected by the First Amendment right to freedom of speech.  You Go Judge!

Well, there it is, short and sweet just like I promised.  You guys have a rockin weekend and I'll bring you more next week here on This Day In Rock.

Thu, Dec 18, 2008

I thought I would take  a different twist in our This Day In Rock column and do a 20 year flashback.  Looking back at the year 1988 and getting a refresher as to what music was out and about 20 years ago.

In 1988, I was a freshman in high school, didn't have a driver's license and took basketball so that I did not have to take P.E.  I was thrilled that I no longer had to eat school food and was able to go home for lunch, but thought it really sucked that I couldn't take speech and debate or join colorgaurd in band until my sophomore year.  Just so you know, when you're 5'2" and marching with a Tenor Sax, it's not fun.

But besides, all of that, it was an awesome year for music.  After school, you can take it to the bank, that MTV was on while I was doing homework....or when I was supposed to be doing homework and I was not going to miss the most requested video of the day; wasn't gonna happen.  So, here's a look back at the music that rocked our world back in 1988. 

Aerosmith had two memorable hits in 1988 from the album Permanent Vacation, with Angel, which went to #3 on the Billboard Top 100 and Rag Doll which went to #17. 

In 1988, Posion released it's second album Open Up and Say Ahh! which yielded a harvest of hits including Fallen Angel, Nothin But a Good Time, and insanely popular Every Rose Has It's Thron.

Who will ever forget when Guns N' Roses burst onto the music scene.  Axl's teased out hair for the Welcome to the Jungle video, or Slash's eyes hidden behind that mass of curls crowned in that signature top hat.  And in 1988, they made their presence known on MTV daily with Welcome to the Jungle, and Sweet Child O' Mine.

Van Hagar...I mean, Van Halen had a couple of hits from their ablum OU812 with Finish What Ya Started and When It's Love, which topped out on the Billboard Hot 100 at #5.

There were women who could rock just as hard as the men in the 80's, and Lita Ford was a singer/gutiarist who would at times out rock a lot of the men.  In 1988, Lita's single Kiss Me Deadly went all the way to #1.

In the midst of all the hair mania that ran lose in the 80's one of the top names that was on everyone's lips was Bon Jovi.  From their 4th album, New Jersy, 2 tracks were relased in 1988.  Bad Medicine went all the way to #1 and for the video, the band handed out tons of video cameras to the fans for the footage.  The second hit in 88', was Born To Be My Baby, which went to #7.

For our last flashback, I give you Cinderella, who had a hit with their power ballad Don't Know What You Got (Till It's Gone), from the album Long Cold Winter.  Who knew that years down the road, this song would make VH1's Most Awesomely Bad Break-up Songs....Ever list, ranking #37.

Well, I can only speak for myself when I say that that I always enjoy taking these trips back to the past, and the upside, you don't need Doc Brown's DeLorean to go back in time.

Wed, Dec 17, 2008

One of the first times that I remember hearing the song that our first fact is about, was in watching the first season of Happy Days.  Before the TV sitcom had it's own theme written, it used Rock Around the Clock by Bill Haley and the Comets.  That rock and roll anthem, was the first rock and roll song to hit the UK Singles Chart, on this very day in 1954.

In 1963, the US got it's first taste of the Beatles...well, Washington D.C. did anyway when a disk jocky by the name of James Carroll introduced I Want To Hold Your Hand on radio station WWDC.  His girlfriend, who was a stewardess, brought him a copy of the single back from Britian.  Upon playing the song, the station was overwhelmed with requests by listeners, so was played every day, upon every hour.  However, the single had not yet been released in the States, and although Capitol Records had originally contemplated leagal action, they chose instead to release the single earlier than it's release date.

This leads us to my favorite fact of the day.  Today, in 1966, Snoopy VS the Red Baron, by the Royal Guardsmen, hit the Billboard Pop chart, spending 11 weeks, topping out at #2 during it's time on the charts.

When I was a kid, I couldn't wait for December to get here, just so I could hear that song as it was one of my all time favorites.

And finally, in 1999, Keith Richards, while at his birthday party at the Russian Tea Room in New York City, was asked to autograph a guitar, which he decided to KEEP.  The guitar's owner did not pursue pressing charges simply saying, "It's Keith, man."

Well, that does it for me, I'm out of here.  Be safe and watch out for that nasty cold weather!

Tue, Dec 16, 2008

It would be so easy in doing these daily reviews to just list dates and the facts of what happened, with no personal interplay whatsoever.  I've never been known to take the easy road of doing things.  And there are times, that after finding and reading through the facts, they become a jumbled mess in my mind.  I look, and if I've done a previous fact about an artist I think..."Man, I've already done something with this band and related something of myself into it".  And now, as I sit typing this, I'm thinking, sometimes you don't have to relate to something from every fact, or have a memory tied to the band, song, or incident.  Sometimes, it's just enough to let the facts speak for themselves.  Do I like doing it that way?  To be honest, NO.  To me, it feels like I'm reading from a music encyclopedia that is just cold words.  No feeling, no expression, no passion for the music or artist, just dry factual words as if I were reading from Funk & Wagnalls. (Those of you who ever took debate in high school will recognize THAT reference.)

Music is about expression.  Something that the artist wants to relate and express to us, the fans.  And we as writers are about expression as well.  We want to express through the typed word what music gives to us as individuals.  And in looking back over today's facts, I have just now found the common thread that ties them together. Expression.

On this day in 1966, Jimi Hendrix released his single Hey Joe.  I never cared much for this song musically and had never even read the lyrics until today.  And in reading them you hear the anger, the frustration and even a bit of fear expressed in the words.



In 1974 Rolling Stones guitarist Mick Taylor announced that he would be leaving the band.  He made his announcement at a party catching his band mates off guard.  Kieth Richards expressed his frustration about Taylor's untimely departure, as the band was set to record a new album.



Just before his death, Beatle John Lennon had recorded a rough cut of a song entitled Free as a Bird, performing it on piano.  Later, the track would be finished by his former band mates with the recording taking place in Paul McCartney's home studio.  On this day in 1995, the track sat at #2 on the UK charts and #6 in the US.

And finally, what better way to express yourself that to run for a political office?  In 1999 the Sex Pistol's former manager, Malcolm McLaren did just that when he decided to run for London's first elected mayor.  His expressions of freedom were to: legalize pot, have brothels outside Parliament, allow pubs to remain open all night, and to allow drinking of alcohol in public libraries.  His political career was short lived as he pulled out of the race 3 months later.

Everyone has their own way of expressing themselves, be it music, writing, art or any other avenue.  May your expressions come from the center of who you are and who knows, maybe they will be laid out for others to hear, read or see and change their lives for the better.

Mon, Dec 15, 2008

It seems like there has been a plethora of birthdays this month, and while we just celebrated a HUGE one last week, with Nikki Sixx's, today's birthday is even more special to me. 

All that you really know of Road Crew Magazine's writers is what little quote that we have tagged beside our name, or if you're friends with us on myspace what you read in bulletins or blogs. 

Well, today I have to give honor to the Captain of this rockin road crew, as she is our (the writers) very dear friend as well as the driving force behind this publication.  None other than our awesome Becca. 

I hope that your birthday is as wonderful as you are and as rockin as what you have given us with this magazine.  Love ya, girl!!

And now for the informational segment of our column.

I love getting to look back on facts about the bands I grew up listening to, and today's are no exception.  I mean, it's hard to go wrong with Jefferson Airplane, Areosmith and Pink Floyd.

What happens when you cross Jefferson Airplane with the Smothers Brothers?  One link in a chain that would eventually cause the cancellation of the Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour.  For their performance of Crown of Creation, Grace Slick sang the song in blackface and although not seen in the following video, is said to have given a power salute at the end of the performance.

How many people remember watching American Bandstand?  I also wonder if anyone else wonders if Dick Clark will look timeless forever.

In 1973, legendary rock band Aerosmith performed their now classic hit Dream On on the popular Saturday morning TV show. (At least it was on Saturdays the times that I watched it....)

When I was a freshman in high school, my older brother was a senior.  He never ceased to amaze me the way that he would combine art and music.  He was a certifiable genius.  From taking a flat basketball and turning it into a death star from Star Wars, equipped with laser (a Christmas tree light) that when hooked up to the stereo would pulse to the bass beat, to doing something very similar with a Klingon Bird of Prey model, to in my opinion the coolest thing ever, a mural, drawn on copier paper, that circled his entire bedroom, inspired by Pink Floyd's The Wall.  It was truly an amazing work of art.  You could see scenes inspired by the movie through different holes in the wall, as well as inspirations and interpretations that impacted him, that shined forth onto paper.  To me, it was and to this day is, one of the greatest drawings done by anyone, ever.

And on this day in rock, "Another Brick in the Wall (pt 2)" would top the UK singls chart and remain there for 5 weeks. 

I'm tempted to pull out The Wizard of Oz and Dark Side of the Moon now that I've taken THIS trip down memory lane.  I hope your Monday if awesome!!  Rock On!

By   Fri, Dec 12, 2008

You lucky Europeans get more of rockers AC/DC as they have added more shows to their Black Ice World Tour beginning in Leipzig, Germany on May 13, 2009 and running through June 30, 2009 in Glasgow, Scotland.

The new dates:

May 13 - Leipzig, DE Zentralstadium
May 15 - Munich, DE - Olympic Stadium
May 17 - Gelsenkirchen, DE Veltins Arena
May 19 - Cologne, DE - Stadion
May 22 - Hockenheimring, DE - Formula 1 Racing Track
May 24 - - Vienna, AT - Ernst-Happel Stadium
Jun. 12 - Paris, FR - Stadt de France
Jun. 15 - Oslo, NO Valle Hovin
Jun. 17 - Helsinki, FI - Olympic Stadium
Jun. 19 - Copenhagen, DK - Parken
Jun. 21 - Gothenberg, SE - Ullevi Stadium
Jun. 23 - Amsterdam, NL - Amsterdam Arena
Jun. 26 - London, GB - Wembley Stadium
Jun. 28 - Dublin, IE Punchestown Racetrack
Jun. 30 - Glasgow, GB - Hampden Park 


Black Ice was released on October 20, 2008, and was the first new album in over eight years.  "Rock N Roll Train", the first single from Black Ice, has been nominated for a Grammy Award in the category of Best Rock Performance By A Duo Or Group With Vocals. 

Black Ice made history debuting at #1 on album charts in 29 countries and is now Columbia Record's biggest debut album (since Nielsen SoundScan began tracking sales data for Billboard in March of 1991). 

Want more AC/DC? Visit them on the web at www.acdc.com or myspace at www.myspace.com/acdc

Fri, Dec 12, 2008

Ok, if you watched the video that is at the top of the column, I apologize for the subtitles with the song, but I was unable to find a version in English without them.  Now, you may be asking yourself why on earth is there a video of the singing slugs from Flushed Away doing Mr. Lonely on today's column.  Well, the answer is very simple.  It's my favorite version of the song, even if it is only under a minute and believe it or not, that song is the first fact in our This Day In Rock flashback.

in 1964, Mr. Lonely was Bobby Vinton's 4th song to hit the Billboard charts.  Amazingly, the track was written to be a space filler on his greatest hit's album, but when it was released as a single, it took no time at all to climb the charts.

1970....if I was around, I could tell you if it was a good year or not.  Well, as I wasn't around, I can only go off of what people have either told me, or what I have read about the year.  I can tell you that on this day, in 1970 it wasn't a particularly happy day for Doors fans, as on this night at the Warehouse in New Orleans, the Doors played their last concert with Jim Morrison as their frontman. 

One of these days I'm going to have to do a search and find out how many rock/pop musicians have been knighted.  The two that jump to mind of course are Paul McCartney and Elton John.  But until doing my daily search of endless musical trivia to share with you, I had NO idea that none other than Mick Jagger had been knighted by Prince Charles in 2003.  Sir Jagger, whose father was 92 at the time was at the ceremony to see his son knighted.

Well, I hope this review of rock happenings hasn't left YOU sluggish.  I hope your December 12 is rockin!!

Thu, Dec 11, 2008

Today's Day in Rock is a Brithday Blowout for none other than Motley Crue Bassist, Mr. Nikki Sixx!

So to simply put it, the very sexy Sixx, whose birth name is Frank Carlton Serafin Feranna Jr. was born TODAY, yep This Day In Rock back in 1958.  So, to give honor where honor is due, today's column is done in dedication to an amazing rock legend.

Take some time today to check out Motley Crue, Sixx:A.M., Running Wild In The Night, Covenant House, The Heroin Diaries, The Dirt or Royal Underground, and be sure to share some love on Nikki's Myspace page.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MR. SIXX!!!!!

By   Wed, Dec 10, 2008

Coldplay has finally spoken out about the allegations against them. The band posted the following statement on their website on Tuesday:

"With the greatest possible respect to Joe Satriani, we have now unfortunately found it necessary to respond publicly to his allegations. If there are any similarities between our two pieces of music, they are entirely coincidental, and just as surprising to us as to him. Joe Satriani is a great musician, but he did not write or have any influence on the song Viva La Vida. We respectfully ask him to accept our assurances of this and wish him well with all future endeavours. Coldplay."

As I researched this whole situation further I have found many sources saying that Satriani did all he could to avoid going to court. Satriani has even publicly stated that "They just didn't want to talk about it"

Go to you tube look up both songs give them a listen and decide for yourself. I plan on keeping you posted on any further developments.

Wed, Dec 10, 2008

First and foremost, I want to say a big thank you to Jenny for filling my shoes yesterday and keeping you up to date on what happened in the rock world.  It's great to know you have people who have you're back when your personal life gets in the way of things. And now that I am no longer feeling under the weather, I want you all to know that I am so happy to be back with you for today's installment of This Day In Rock ...did you hear the dramatic music that was just in the background????

So, what do we have for today, other than the cold snowy weather that has come to visit?  A couple of interesting tidbits that I hope you all will enjoy, as the first one puts me back in the memory time machine and spins me back to my childhood yet again.

The sounds of the Steve Miller Band were frequent in my house.  Book of Dreams is the album I remember the most, with it's hits Jungle Love, Jet Airliner, and Swingtown.  Of course, who could ever forget The Joker, and Abracadbra? 

Every summer, on the Katt, I would hear commercials for their concerts, that they were playing the Zoo Ampitheater again.  Sadly, I never made it to one of the shows, even though I had wanted to.

Now, to me, this is interesting as it is something that I did not know about the band.  They were originally called the Stever Miller Blues Band.  And I have to give Capitol Records kudos for talking them into dropping the Blues portion of the name as The Steve Miller Band has a much better ring to it.  And on this day in 1967, Capitol Records signed the band who up till this point had been unrecorded.  Not only had they never recorded, they were signed for an amazing $750,000.

Our next fact is from the year 1969 and centers around guitar legend Jimi Hendrix.  I've been doing a lot of digging concerning this fact because I've found a couple of different things.  But the main fact that is true everywhere I've looked is this:  That he was aquitted of drug charges against him in Toronto, Canada.  Now, here is the different sinipit of information that I have gotten, and I plan to do some more digging to find out what is accurate, and what isn't.  I have read that a) a fan slipped the drugs into his bag at the airport and he didn't know they were there.   b) that even though he had expreimented with drugs he had "outgrown" them.

Now, both of these facts could be just different pieces to the story that helps make up the whole.  But, if there are any of you big time Hendrix fans out there who know and would care to, you can drop me a line a lis(at)roadcrewmag.com and fill me in on as Paul Harvey says, the rest of the story.

Well, kiddies, that's going to do it for today's This Day In Rock.  I hope that you will join me tomorrow for a special birtday issue of this column, and you Motley Crew fans, I'll bet you already know who I'm talking about.

Mon, Dec 08, 2008

Mon, Dec 08, 2008

December 8th was a busy day in the world of rock.  Major things that would change the lives of rock stars and fans forever.

For as long as I can remember, I remember Alvin and the Chimpmunks.  My own kids, namely my youngest love them as much as I did when I was a kid.  And on this day in 1958, "The Chimpmunk Song" entered the Billboard Top 40 chart.  It would spend 4 weeks at #1.

In 1979, native Chicago band Styx had their 3rd of 8 US Top 10 hits with  "Babe".  My personal Styx favorite was "Too Much Time On My Hands".  Of course, this is something that I tend NOT to relate to.

The next 2 facts, I am going to roll together as they are 2 chapters to the same story, taking place respectively in 1980 and 2000.

It's hard to not look back in time and find some fact about the Beatles.  They were a band that without a doubt impacting pioneers of rock.  And the world was forever changed on this day when the news broke that John Lennon had been shot outside his apartment building in New York.  Lennon was shot in the chest, back and left arm and died within 30 minutes.  Earlier that day, Lennon had autographed an album for his killer, Mark David Chapman, who is still serving time having been denied parole in 2002, 2004, 2006 and 2008.

The second chapter of this story takes us to the year 2000 and the 20th anniversary of John Lennon's death, when a plaque to commemorate the anniversary was unveiled outside his childhood home in Liverpool.

In 1984, Motley Crue's vocalist Vince Neil was involved in a car accident in which his passenger, Haoni Rocks drummer Nick "Razzle" Dingley did not survive.  Vince was arrested and charged with vehicular manslaughter and driving under the influence of alcohol.

Trying to sum up the events of that night in a small paragraph is next to impossible.  My recomendation for any fan of the Crue, new or old is to pick up a copy of "The Dirt".  The Motley Crue story, told by the band members themselves.  "The Dirt" gives a detailed account of the incident as well as insight to the emotional turmoil the band went through during this time period.

By   Sat, Dec 06, 2008

Coldplay is being accused of plagiarism for a second time over their smash hit "Viva La Vida". This time the accuser is the legendary Joe Satriani.  Satriani claims the band plagiarized  "substantial, original portions" of his 2004 song "If I could Fly". Satriani is asking the Federal judge to order an accountant so they can determine the exact amount owed to Satriani.The other option Satriani gives is for the band to quit playing the song all together. This is highly unlikely  considering the hit song is the center of an I-pod commercial and was just nominated for a Grammy award. Satriani filed the suit on Thursday in a LosAngeles federal court.

By   Thu, Dec 04, 2008

  Motley Crue wants you ,the fans to tell them what their next single should be.  Nikki Sixx posted in his blog that "you need to vote."  There are only two songs to choose from and both songs can be played before voting.  The two songs are: "Chicks =Trouble" and  "White Trash Circus". you can go Here to vote. So take a trip over there and Let your voice be heard!

Fri, Dec 05, 2008

Today, I will be only highlighting one fact.  Not that there weren't other things that happened on this day in rock, BUT because of the magnitude of this fact. 

I remember vividly what I was doing and where I was during 9-11.  I remember the shock and the horror and disbelief that I felt.  I had felt something similar not too many years before with the Oklahoma City bombing, as I am from Oklahoma.

I remember 2 words that I know have echoed across this nation:  NEVER FORGET

So, although my writing will be minimal and the fact impacting, let us NEVER FORGET.  Let us always remember that we are a free nation, and what the price of that freedom is.  Let us NEVER FORGET in the midst of the loss, there is hope.

On December 5th, 2001, Don Henley and David Crosby held a concert in Lowell, Mass that helped raise $300,000 for children of victims of the 9-11 terrorist attack.  The benefit was organized by US Representative Martin Meehan in order to help the children of his district pay for future education expenses.

NEVER FORGET

Thu, Dec 04, 2008

As I sat down to start looking up facts for today's column, my first reaction was "there's not a whole lot for today, is there?".  My husband who was sitting beside me looked through them, he made me realize the hidden gems that I had just passed over.

As I had said in an earlier column, today's music was birthed out of what a lot of people today would consider, pretty lame music indeed.  But if it hadn't been for that "lame" music, would music have evolved into what it is today?  Without those early pioneers of rock, would we have bands like Motley Crue, Queensryche, or Sixx:A.M.? 

So, as we delve into these gems from December 4th of years gone by, I would like to dedicate today's column to my husband as he was the one who helped harvest them.

Today we are going to start in the year 1956.  On this day in rock, pioneer rocker Elvis Presley made an un-expected stop by Sun Records in Memphis.  There he found Johnny Cash and Jerry Lee Lewis watching Carl Perkins in the studio.  An impromput recording session stemmed from this meeting of musical minds and although they did tape some songs together, the recordings were not put to disc for another 25 years.  When they finally were, they were released as the "Million Dollar Quartet".

In 1961 "Duke of Earl" by Gene Chandler was released on Vee Jay Records.  It would go on to reach number 1 in the US and sell over 1 million copies.

When was the last time that you heard that the President, Vice President and 40 US Governors try to understand the younger?  In my rememberance, I don't ever recall such a thing, but in 1969, President Nixon, Vice President Spiro T. Agnew and 40 Governors did that when they viewed simulated "acid trip" films and listened to rock music to comprehend the generation gap.

In 1994, 52 year old Frank Zappa lost his battle with pancreatic cancer.  He passed away at his Los Angeles home.

How much are the lyrics to a song worth?  What makes one song worth more than another?  Is it determined by who wrote the lyrics or by the merit of the song?  Is it determined if it is a "lost" song that is on paper and never made it to tape?

In 2006 on this day, a page of working lyrics of Paul McCartney's song "Maxwell's Silver Hammer" sold at an auction of Rock and Pop memorabilia that was held at Christie's Auction House.  It sold for $192,000 and was bought by a Texas bookstore owner named Bill Butler.

And there you have it.  The hidden gems from this day in rock.  What gems are being made in our day and age, in our generation?  What memories are being formed in today's rock world that will be mined for future observance?  They are all around and with google and myspace, it's easier than ever to discover rock gems daily.

By   Wed, Dec 03, 2008

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By   Wed, Dec 03, 2008

Wed, Dec 03, 2008

Greetings and salutations on this fine December 3rd.  I hope this day finds you well as we get ready to take our daily stroll down memory lane.

We will start today out with a birthday so worth mentioning.  Today none other than rock legend Ozzy Osbourne was born in 1948 in Birmingham, England.  So, a BIG happy birthday to Ozzy from all of us here at Road Crew Magazine!

Just when I think that I'm not giong to be shocked by or amused by any of the facts that I run across, I'm proven wrong.  And this fact made me verbaly go "Nahhhh" but after re-reading it, it didn't change, my eyes weren't playing tricks on me and as I was drinking tea, I know that my beverage had nothing to do with it. 

On this day back in 1965, during a concert in Sacramento, California, Rolling Stones guitarist Keith Richards stepped on a micrphone cable and was electorcuted and knocked unconscious.  After a brief break, he was able to continue the show.

I'm going to do something I haven't done in the brief history of this column and I am NOT going to go in year order.  This next tidbit comes from the year 1986 and is again, one of those facts that makes me scratch my head trying to figure people out.  I don't understand people who use music, books, movies or other types of entertainment and blame them for things they do.  Sadly, this is something seen over and over.  Judas Priest faced such blame when a lawsuit was filed against them and CBS Records, saying that 2 fans shot themselves after listening to the the band's music for 6 hours.

The information for this next fact comes from and is credited to Wikipedia:

December 3rd 1971, Montreux Casino burned down during a concert by Frank Zappa, after a fan had set the venue on fire with a flare gun, reducing it to ashes. Claude Nobs saved several young people who, thinking they would be sheltered from the flames, had hidden in the casino from the blaze. A recording of the outbreak and fire announcement can be found on a Frank Zappa Bootleg album titled "Swiss Cheese / Fire"^[1] English rock group Deep Purple subsequently made Montreux famous with their song "Smoke on the Water", which tells the events of December 1971:

Tue, Dec 02, 2008

In looking back on December 2nd happenings, it wasn't a pleasant day in Rock.  With the exception of our Happy Birthday for today.

When I was in high school, Def Leppard was by far my favorite band.  I had them wallpapered in my room and on my celing.  For my 15th birthday, my mom took me to see them in concert.  It was my first concert ever and probably my most memorable.  The only thing that could have made it better would have been if it had been indoors so I could have seen them in the round.  I remember with clarity both Phil Collen and Steve Clark's guitar solos.  I bought their book "Animal Instinct" rather than a t-shirt.  A tidbit I remember from it, did you know the guys would only eat brown M&M's?  I had every album both on vynal and cassette, as this was before cd's were out, as well as a few 45's.  And like many other teenage girls, I was over the top in love with Rick Savage.  And on this day in 1960 the gorgeous bassist of Def Leppard was born.  A very happy birthday to Sav!!

Now that we are done with the "Love", let's get to the "Bites" portion of our program.

On this day, in 1973, after a playing at the Montreal Forum, the members of the Who along with some of their friends, got to spend the night in jail after they caused more than $6000 worth of damage to their hotel.

Now, I don't know which would bite more.  Having to spend a night in jail or appearing on tv talk show Geraldo along w/ a country legend.  Well, on this day back in 1988, KISS members, Paul Stanley and Gene Simmons did just that. They were one the show with none other than country singer and legend Willie Nelson. That day's topic?  "Sex on the Road".  I know you are all surprised at that *wink*.

And finally, in 1997 during a Rolling Stones show at the Pontiac Silverdome in Michigan, a fan suffered a fatal fall from a blacony during the show.

Well, I hope that your day doesn't bite, but that you love it, and live life daily to it's fullest.

Mon, Dec 01, 2008

It’s been more than a decade
Kids growin’ up without rock n’ roll
Ain’t gonna be another second
It’s time to put it back on the wall.

These lines comes from one of my favorite songs, Crazy Lixx’s  “Do Or Die”. The song is featured on their “Loud Minority” album, and it’s one of my neighbors’ many torments. Whenever I hear it, I can’t help but dance around a bit in my apartment, while constantly touching the volume button, “Just a little bit more!”.

Crazy Lixx is one of those bands I just fell in love with the first time I heard them, I bought the album as soon as I could, and kept playing it over and over.

The first time I saw them live was at a cruise I went to, and as I stood there as close to the stage as I could get, they came out, and the ship just came to a different definition of rocking. Back then, Vic Zino (who later left to play with Hardcore Superstar) was playing guitars, Danny Rexon was singing, Joey Cirera was banging the drums and Luke Rivano took care of the bass. Together, they were the perfect mix to make my night one of the best ones yet.

Since Vic left, the band now has a young guitar player named Andy Dawson. I was pretty skeptical when I heard the news, but the next time I went to see them, I had to rethink everything. Andy is a perfect guitar player for Crazy Lixx, and from what I’ve been told, no one else could have beat him to the place. As soon as they’d heard him play, he was in.

Right now, they have their songs up for streaming at http://www.ubetoo.com/TopSongs.taf?_SongId=6651, and I really recommend that you go listen if you haven’t heard them yet. You can also catch them at www.crazylixx.com or http://www.myspace.com/crazylixxmusic.

Mon, Dec 01, 2008

I hope that everyone had a wonderful Thanksgiving weekend.  I find it hard to believe that we are already into December.  This year has flown by and I can't help but think that in one month's time I will have facts from 2008 lying in the wings for this column.

Today, all of our facts keep us in the 1970's.  The decade in which I was born and a decade in which some amazing music was brought forth.  Music that blasts from my computer's speakers quite frequently.

In 1972, there was a song that was released that would make it to number 1 that had much speculation about it.  A song that was later redone by Faster Pussycat and featured in the movie "How To Lose a Guy In 10 Days".  I am speaking of none other that Carley Simon's hit, "You're So Vain".  So, who was the song talking about?  Many guesses included:  Mick Jagger (who sang uncredited background vocals on the song), Cat Stevens, Warren Beatty, and Kris Kristofferson (all of whom she had had a prior relationship with), one unfaithful former fiance, William Donaldson, and her ex-husband James Taylor.

On this day, in 1976 one of my favorite bands of all time, Fleetwood Mac held the number one spot on the alubms chart with Rumors.  In my opinion, this is by far their best album EVER.

Also on this day in 1976, British punk band the Sex Pistols, who had just released their first single "Anarchy For the UK", appeared on a British TV's Today Show, filling in as a last minute replacement for the band Queen.  When the show's interviewer, Bill Grundy asked them about their "nasty reputation", bass player Glenn Matlock lived up to it, by saying a profain word while on air.  The result?  The band was banned from all but 5 cities that they were booked for on their  first UK tour, and by January, no club or hall in Britain would book the band.

Well, this is all that I have for you today.  If you have a factoid or tidbit you would like featured in This Day In Rock, or would just like to leave me a comment, please feel free to contact me on my myspace page:  http://www.myspace.com/fairequeenmab

By   Thu, Nov 27, 2008

        Beverly Hills Lawyer Alan Gutman an Attorney For Guns N' Roses has sent Larry Young , President & CEO of Dr. Pepper and Snapple, A 3 page letter threatening litigation. The three page letter can be seen on Blabbermouth.net HERE.  The lawyer says that Dr.Pepper failed to deliver on it's promise of a free 20oz soda Saying Quote;

   "Dr, Pepper did not define"everyone in America"the same way as "everyone in America" defined everyone in America."

        Mr. Gutman also goes on to say;
 
   "In a cynical attempt to mitigate it's exposure, Dr.Pepper quickly erected numerous barriers to redemption; To get a free soda everyone had 24 hours to go to drpepper.com on Sunday November23,which meant the soda was only free to those Americans who had heard about the redemption plan in time and had access to a computer on November, 23.

        The letter also stated that the few lucky enough to get through to the website were given a toll free phone number to call.  Many of the people calling that number were unable to get through.  Mr. Gutman goes on to say in the letter that;
  
   "It is essential that Dr. Pepper work to repair the harm this campaign has done and make good on its promise to the American people"

        The Lawyer also asks for full page apologies Pre-approved by Axl & Co. to be published in: The new York Times, Los Angeles Times, Usa Today, and The Wall Street Journal. They are also seeking monetary damages saying quote:

   "Had you wished to engage in a commercial tie-in with our clients,you should have negotiated a legitimate arrangement instead of hijacking thier rights without payment."

        This whole drama should prove to be interesting!  Check back with Road Crew Magaizine for further devolopments.

Fri, Nov 28, 2008

I trust everyone had a pleasant Thanksgiving and got their fill of food, football and family.  And if you didn't have a blissful Thanksgiving holiday, maybe the tidbits in today's This Day In Rock will make things all better for you.

When looking up today's facts, I couldn't help but cringe because the majority of them were not happy trips back into time.  And they made me think about the little nugget of truth that someone, somewhere, has had it worse or is worse off than you are.  And in light of the holiday season, we always want to hear the happier stories.  Well, not today folks, because bad times don't pay attention to the calender, and sure didn't on Novemeber 28 in the world of rock.

In 1979, Ringo Starr lost all of his mementos from his time with the Beatles when his home in Hollywood Hills burned to the ground. This happened Sunday, three days after Thanksgiving Day. 

On Monday, November 28th, 1987, REM had their first number one single with "The One I Love".  This was before they even signed with record lable Warner Brothers.

I'm not surprsied usually when I see days that have back to back facts with big name bands and artists, but I was shocked when I saw this next fact.  Who would have thought that we would have a fact regarding the band Steppenwolf two days in a row?  I sure didn't.  BUT regardless, on a sad November 28th in 1993, not far from his Santa Barbara home, Steppenwolf drummer Jerry Edmonton was killed in a car crash.  He was 47 years old.

And in 2000, former Soundgarden singer Chris Cornell sued his one time manager, and ex-wife Susan J. Silver, claiming that she diverted monies owed to him and his former bandmates.  The amount of the lawsuit was for more than 1 million dollars.

Bad things can happen at any given time, to anyone.  I know of several situations in my own life, or of my family and friends that are not all sunshine and rainbows.  But we go on, we live and hopefully remember to be thankful for those who touch and impact our lives, as well as remember to tell them, because you never know when it will be your last chance to get to.

I hope you all have a wonderful weekend, and I will see you next week, on This Day In Rock.

By   Wed, Nov 26, 2008

Just out today,  Dj Ashba has created a Channel on You Tube Called   "Ashbaland".  His first upload is  "A Beautiful Lesson" Teaching everyone how to do the intro to  "Life is Beautiful" the first single off Sixx AM's Heroin Diaries Soundtrack.  Go to You Tube and Check it out.  Be sure to subscribe to the Ashbaland channel because I'll Bet money that there is much more to come!!

Thu, Nov 27, 2008

One thing I'm thankful for?  Vanilla Cream Coke....and now that I have one sitting within reach, I can begin looking back on our Thanksgiving edition of This Day In Rock.

I want to start out by saying I am thankful for music.  Not just rock, but all types of music.  Different genres for different moods and feelings.  Music can reflect our mood, or change it.  Could you even begin to imagine what life would be WITHOUT music?  I can't as my life is driven by it.  I am thankful for musicians that have gone before us.  Thankful that they chose to share their talents and passions through music with us.  And for those of you who play, sing or write, but are not signed, published or known about, thank you as well.  Thank you for keeping the wheels of music turning.

In looking back on this day, November 27th we are first going to give honor to one who would have turned 65 today.  Born in Seattle, the amazing, left handed guitar genius Jimi Hendrix took his first breath.  Not knowing the caliber guitarist they held in their hands, the doctor and nurses went about their work, just as they would with any delivery.  Did his mother hold him and look at him in amazement, wondering what shape his life would take and what he would do with his life when he grew up?  I'm sure she did just as any mother does. He will always be remembered by musicians and fans alike, the world forever thankful for his talent and his music that ended all too quickly, like a candle snuffed out by the wind. 

I've had several different images pop into my head while thinking of him. His music being featured on one of the Guitar Hero video games, being a theme and central point in the Andrew Dice Clay movie Ford Fairlane, and the one that of course stands out most vividly, him kneeling on the stage lighting his guitar on fire.  He will never be forgotten, and his music will live on through the spans of time.

There are rock anthems than span across the decades.  They are timeless and are known as well now, by kids and adults who weren't even born when the song first hit the radio airwaves.  One of these great anthems is "Born To Be Wild" by Steppenwolf, and on this day back in 1968, their first album featuring that great anthem as well as their other classic hit "Magic Carpet Ride" went gold.

As a kid of the 80's, I remember when Bon Jovi's Slippery When Wet hit the shelves.  They were all over MTV battleing other great bands like Motley Crue and Def Leppard for that coveted "most requested video".  And on this day, in 1986 they had the number one Chart Toppers Hit, "You Give Love A Bad Name".

While we are in the land of the 80's, I'd like to give special remebrance today to a singer from an 80's metal band that had their own anthem, that is sung as loud now as when we turned up our tv's and stereos to get the word out to "BANG YOUR HEAD".  On this day, just one year ago, Quiet Riot front man Kevin DuBrow died at the age of 52 in Las Vegas.

We here at Road Crew Magazine are thankful to you, our readers and wish you a rockin Thanksgiving!!

By   Wed, Nov 26, 2008

Can I tell you how excited I am about this? I'm jumping up and down on my couch excited!

Cheap Trick are an amazing band with unforgetable songs and what a better way to celebrate the 30th ( did I just say that? because it makes me feel old, which I certainly AM NOT!)  anniversary of the concert that put them on the map. Have you heard Robin Zander sing "I want you to want me" live? Of course you have! You sing along too and that is what makes a GREAT song... a memorable song... a legendary song. Of course I was only 8 years old when they played in Budokan but, that song maintained its popularity and still does to this day.

The U.S. Theatrical Premiere of Landmark CHEAP TRICK Concert Film Takes Place In Multiple Cities on December 4th, 2008. It has only appeared once before on Japanese television in 1978. The theatrical premiere will be held in New York City, Los Angeles, Chicago, Philadephia, Seattle, and other markets. ( see all the citieis below) by D&E Entertainment.

Want to Chat with the guys from Cheap Trick? They will be on Rock Line Radio LIVE on December 3rd. Go to www.rocklineradio.com to find out details and call up 1-800-344-ROCK (7625) to speak to them LIVE!

Check out Cheap Trick on the web at www.cheaptrick.com or on www.myspace.com/cheaptrick or http://www.facebook.com/pages/Cheap-Trick/11605532036 or http://www.youtube.com/cheaptrick

TICKET AND EVENT INFO: http://www.dandeentertainment.com

U.S. Theaters and Cities showing: CHEAP TRICK LIVE AT BUDOKAN 1978
THUR, DEC 4th:
Phoenix AZ - Ultrastar Surprise Pointe Cinema
San Diego CA - Oceanside Ultrastar Mission Marketplace
San Diego CA - Apple Valley Ultrastar
San Diego CA - Ultrastar Hazard at Mission Valley
Chula Vista, CA - Chula Vista on Broadway
Los Angeles CA - The Echoplex
Chicago IL - Niles ShowPlace
Chicago IL - Skokie Kerasotes Village Crossing
Chicago IL - Naperville ShowPlace
Chicago IL - Chicago City North
Chicago IL - Evansville Stadium
Succasunna, NJ - Succasunna
Santa Fe, NM - Santa Fe Ctr for Contemporary Arts
New York City, NY - Clearview Cinema
Philadelphia, PA - Anthony Wayne Cinema
Burlington, VT - Merrill’s Roxy Cinema
Redmond, WA - Big Picture Theater

Wed, Nov 26, 2008

Today, we're going to highlight 2 of the "Superbands" from the days of yesteryear that impacted and influenced many.

I have to give my older brother Ray credit for exposing me to this first band.  He is another person who was instrumental in my molding my musical self.  I had of course heard songs by Led Zeppelin played on the Katt, but the only song I really KNEW by them was of course "Stairway to Heaven".  It was Ray who gave me a cassette of "Houses of the Holy" after playing me the song D'yer Mak'er, which I fell in love with.  With Zeppelin, the songs of theirs that I liked, I loved and the ones I didn't like, I hated. 

On this day in 1974, the Zeppelin boys, while waiting for "Physical Graffiti" to be released, spent their time in London's Livewire Theater rehersing.   Due to the complicated layout of the albums cutout sleeve, the record company was holding up the album's release.

The Eagles was a band that was always played a lot in my home.  If "Hotel California"..the album wasn't playing then the Eagles Greatest Hits (1971-1975) frequented the turntable quite often.  And although by the time I was really old enough to know who the members of the band were, they had already disbanded and had pursued solo careers.  I personally don't know the reasons as to why the split up, but when  a former Eagle was asked when a reunion would happen, the answer was, "When Hell Freezes Over".  After giving into financial pressure however, that exact title was given to the band's new album.  It provided a compilation of live versions of former hits as well as studio cuts of new material.  The album topped the Billboard album chart at number 1 on this day in 1994. 

In birthday news, John McVie of Fleetwood Mac turns 63 today.  Hope he has a happy, rockin one!

Well, kiddies, my work here is finished.  Remember, it's not just where we are going or where we are now, but also where we come from that paints the whole picture.  Rock ON!!

Tue, Nov 25, 2008

Every year, there's one thing that completely blows my mind. One thing I'd never DREAM of missing.

Sweden Rock festival.

Held every year in June in Sölvesborg, southern Sweden, Sweden Rock festival is growing so fast it's known far beyond our borders. This year, we had greats such as Judas Priest, Poison, Def Leppard, Ratt, Tesla and Triumph. For next year year, the band announcements has just begun, and I want to tell you all about them. There have been 22 bands announced, out of an approximate of 95. I'll be going, and I hope you join me, to among others see

HEAVEN & HELL

IN FLAMES

EUROPE

FOREIGNER

DREAM THEATER

HAMMERFALL

MOTÖRHEAD

BLACKFOOT

MARILLION

LITA FORD

RIOT

URIAH HEEP

AMON AMARTH

THE OUTLAWS

THE TUBES

SOILWORK

FORBIDDEN

STORMZONE

ENFORCER

SEVENTH WONDER

BULLET

and

TORCH.

If it keeps going in the same direction, next year won't be great. It will be awesome.

To find out more about the festival, go to www.swedenrock.com

By   Tue, Nov 25, 2008

Are you a die hard Crue head? Then you have to have this! On November 25, Motley Crue will release vinyl editions of their current album, Saints of Los Angeles, along with their first five classic records: Too Fast For Love (1981); Shout at the Devil (1983); Theatre of Pain (1985); Girls, Girls, Girls (1987) and Dr. Feelgood (1989).

The Crue also will offer a limited edition leather box set of all six vinyl releases called Journals Of The Damned. Limited to a sales run of 500, each set is individually numbered and also contains a Shout At the Devil-era lithograph signed by all four members of the band. What die hard Crue fan could pass that up??

Click here to order!

By   Tue, Nov 25, 2008

Crowds of fans gathered to catch a glimpse of their idol. Tony Iommi is best known as the founder of Black Sabbath, THE band that gave birth to heavy metal. Iommi has long been considered a pioneer by his peers and Black Sabbath has won numerous awards. On November 2005 they were inducted into the United Kingdom's Music Hall of Fame and the following March were inductucted into New York's Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

So, now it is only fitting that Birmingham honors Iommi, one of their own greatest masterpeices to come out of the UK, one of the greatest on their "Walk of Stars."

Tue, Nov 25, 2008

I have really enjoyed digging up the factoids for this colum as they have brought to the front of my memory things long forgotten in the past.  In sharing these articles with my mom, she has been amazed, saying "I forgot all about that" or "How do you even remember that".  It is to her that I much give much credit and appreciation as she was the one to help mold my musical tastes and intrests, as well as open doors for me to pursue the different singing opportunites I experienced while growing up.  To hear her say it, I was singing before I was talking. 

I remember her telling me the first record that she ever bought was the Beatles and she drove my grandmother crazy playing it over and over to the point of wearing it out on the little record player they had.  I remember sifting through the stacks and stacks of vinyl records she had and playing her Beatles records on the big cabinate stereo that we had.  I remember attending Learn and Play preschool, singing "Octopus's Garden" while the other kids sang "Who Are The People In Your Neighborhood", thinking that it was a much cooler song.  I remember countless arguments with people about the song "Come Together" and who did the better rendition, the Beatles or Aersomith.  To this day, I still say the Beatles.  I remember my senior year in high school that one of the songs to pick from for our class song was "Imagine" by John Lennon. Sadly, I don't remember what song was picked, but I do know it wasn't "Imagine".  I guess this means I need to dig out my yearbook.....nah...

I'm sure you have probably guessed our first tidbit for Today In Rock deals with the Beatles.  And considering that Black Friday will soon be upon us, what would be more appropriate than a Beatles Shopping fact?  In 1965, the Beatles got Harrods Department Store to themselves as the London store closed it's doors to the public for the Fab Four to be able to do their Christmas shopping.

Welcome to my nightmare, I think you're gonna like it.  I think you're gonna feel, you belong....."

Ahhhh, the opening line to my favorite Alice Cooper song of all time.  How many of you remember him guest starring on the Muppet Show and performing this amazing classic?  ***raises hand*** Now, my kids will argue wtih me and say that "School's Out" is a far better song, but hey, they're still in school so to them it would be.

Well, Alice got his own nightmare on this day in 2000 when his house was broken into and the burglar made off with over $6000 worth of clothes, shoes and other items as well as 4 of his gold records.

Mon, Nov 24, 2008

Raise Your Glass In Remembrance

 Sometimes, it's hard to put situations into words to do them any justice. Sometimes our mouths (or fingers) can not convey what is truly in our hearts to give honor to those musical talents that have given us reason to admire them and look up to them. Such is the case with today's This Day In Rock.

When I was a kid, I cut my teeth on music from so many different genres giving me a well rounded taste in music. But out of them all, rock has always been a driving force for me. I remember while other kids were singing "The Wheels on the Bus", I was belting out "Barracuda" by Heart. I remember going to a restaurant called Molly Murphys and to my older cousin's house and hearing "Another One Bites the Dust" by Queen and singing along, knowing all the words. I remember being in my mother's ex-husbands mother's house...(that was a mouthful, huh?) and being in the basement listening, on 8 track, to the individual albums that the members of Kiss had put out. There were 4 of us kids and my mom had gotten one for each of us. Mine was Paul Stanley's and I was very jealous of my brother who had gotten Gene's. I remember watching "Kiss Meets the Phantom of the Park" in that very basement as well. Now, you may be asking yourself, what does any of this have to do with This Day In Rock. And here is where I will try my best to honor two great men of rock.

It's hard to absorb the shock of one great rocker dying, but even more so when two die on the same day. Both Freddy Mercury, lead singer of Queen and Eric Carr, drummer for Kiss passed away On This Day back in 1991.

We all remember the flamboyant front man for Queen with his amazing 4 octave vocal range and ability to wow the crowd. I was always amazed by Queen and have viewed them as Rock and Roll meets Theater. They were unique in their musical styles and you never knew what turn their music would take next.

On November 22, 1991 , Freddy Mercury called Queen's manager to discuss a public statement about his illness. On November 23, 1991, the following announcement was made to the press on his behalf.

"Following the enormous conjecture in the press over the last two weeks, I wish to confirm that I have been tested HIV positive and have AIDS. I felt it correct to keep this information private to date to protect the privacy of those around me. However, the time has come now for my friends and fans around the world to know the truth and I hope that everyone will join with my doctors and all those worldwide in the fight against this terrible disease. My privacy has always been very special to me and I am famous for my lack of interviews. Please understand this policy will continue."

Sadly, within 24 hours, on November 24th, Freddy Mercury passed away at the age of 45.

 From oven repair man to drumming for a legendary rock band, Eric Carr will never be forgotten by any Kiss fan. For his Kiss alter ego, Carr was first made up as The Hawk, but didn't like that, so later took on the persona of The Fox.

Carr's musical influences included: John Bonham of Led Zeppelin and Ringo Star of the Beatles. He also played guitar, bass guitar, piano and sang background vocals as well as playing the drums.

On the "Hot In The Shade" tour, Carr began having problems with his health. Doctors diagnosed him with an extremely rare condition of heart cancer. After undergoing several surgeries and aggressive treatment, Carr's cancer went into remission and his health began to improve. However, he soon suffered from an aneurysm, which he did recover from. A few days later he suffered from a brain hemorrhage, caused by cancer cells carried in his bloodstream to his brain. He passed away On This Day at the age of 41.

These are two men whose musical genius I continue to admire. Their contributions to the world of rock are undeniable and will forever be shared by those who would follow in their musical footsteps. May their families and friends be comforted and remembered on this day, the day this world lost two of rock's shining stars.

Fri, Nov 21, 2008

Fri, Nov 21, 2008

Thu, Nov 20, 2008

Thu, Nov 20, 2008

By   Wed, Nov 19, 2008

Wed, Nov 19, 2008

By   Wed, Nov 19, 2008

By   Sat, Aug 01, 2009

By   Tue, Jun 23, 2009