September Shadows (Deke Gannon Adventures Book 2)

Shadows Of The Hawk Deke Gannon Adventures Book 4

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All I know is that I turn 55 today; my loving Dad passed away in , three months short of his 56th birthday. So I figure if I beat that, I'm good for another Right now, I count my blessings that my eyes open every morning. I count my blessings for the passion of my work and for the love and support of my family and my friends. Cheers to a life worth living. For that reason alone, indeed, I shall " row well, and live.

Ben-Hur "Parade of the Charioteers" [audio clip at that link], music by Miklos Rozsa , trumpets the bold and grand arrival of the charioteers before the Great Chariot Race in this all-time Oscar champ its 11 Oscar record is tied with " Titanic " and " Lord of the Rings: Return of the King ". It acts as a fanfare for a scene rated among the " most thrilling " action sequences ever committed to celluloid , according to the American Film Institute. Ben-Hur "Prelude" [audio clip at that link], music by Miklos Rozsa , announces the main theme from what is probably my favorite film score , composed by one of my favorite composers , for my favorite movie , the film version of the General Lew Wallace novel, starring Oscar-winner Charlton Heston in the title role.

What better way to celebrate my own birthday than with my favorites? It is as if Rozsa captures all the pain of The Passion; it's a classic musical moment in a classic film. Ben-Hur "Roman March" or "Marcia Romana" [YouTube clip at that link], composed by Miklos Rozsa , is one of the master's grandest marches from the grandest of all epics.

Continuing Movie Music Month , this one's for me on my 51st birthday! Ben-Hur "Salute for Gratus" [audio clip at that link] is one of the grandest themes composed by Miklos Rozsa for my favorite film, " Ben-Hur. Ben-Hur "Salute for Messala" [audio clip at that link] is a second cue composed by the legendary Miklos Rozsa , which is heard in the MGM epic upon the arrival of Judah Ben-Hur 's childhood friend , Messala , who has returned to Jerusalem, a tribune of Rome, ready to assume command of the Roman garrison.

To me, despite the flaws and corruptions that have engulfed the soul of the man who becomes Ben-Hur's nemesis, this particular cue, designed to express the requisite regality, also expresses strength of character and certainty of purpose. And it was a cue that never showed up on the umpteen versions of this film's soundtracks that had been released since the film's debut. That was rectified in by FSM Golden Age Classics , with the release of an utterly definitive 5-CD collection illustrating the complete brilliance of Rozsa's Oscar-winning score , one of the 11 Oscars that remains an Academy Award record tied, but never bested by " Titanic " and " Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King ".

Since the beginning of Notablog, I've highlighted many cues from this soundtrack. Of this, one can be certain: On February 17th of any year, you'll find a "Ben-Hur" selection: It's my 54th birthday, after all, and it allows me to offer an annual salute to my all-time favorite movie and my all-time favorite score. From my favorite movie , the version of " Ben-Hur ," these selections can be sampled from the soundtrack album here. This is, to my knowledge, the only suite I have heard that is different from any other pieces I have already highlighted from the soundtrack of my all-time favorite film.

But what makes it so very special is that it features the composer himself conducting the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra in It is a special treat to see this man so alive with the music of the score that remains his crowning achievement. It is a true genius that we honor today [pdf link to my Rozsa essay] on the th anniversary of his birth [YouTube documentary on Rozsa].

Tomorrow, we begin a week-long Centenary Tribute to another musical legend from an entirely different genre. Just don't drop your brown and yellow basket because within a week, it'll be filled with the glory of Ella. It's a tradition during Film Music February to pick a cue from my all-time favorite film , on this particular day because it's my birthday!

This ain't birthday party musicno victory parade or parade of the charioteers! But it shows another thematic side of the grandest symphonic film score ever written by one of my all-time favorite composers. And while you're at it, check out 10 Famous Lines from this Oscar champ [YouTube link]though at least four classic lines are missing: So row well and live!

On Facebook, I wrote the following preface: Today's entry in my film music series comes from an epic story of struggle and redemption with which I've always identified. And it's a custom I've developed, every February 17th since , to choose a cue from the glorious Miklos Rozsa score to my all-time favorite film, "Ben-Hur," which made its debut at the Loew's State Theatre in New York City on November 18, , just a day over 3 months before my birth in Perhaps I fell in love with the film before I was even bo rn, since Mom saw it around the Christmas holidays, but one thing is certain: I actually first fell in love with the soundtrack to this film, playing it over and over on the ol' Victrola for a good 5 or 6 years prior to seeing the MGM Oscar champ for the first time on its tenth anniversary re-release , which began its run on June 18, at the Palace Theatre in NYC, the Overture, Intermission, and Entr' Acte still intact.

I should add that the re-release ran in 70 mm through November 5, , in preparation for the 70 mm showing of " Goodbye, Mr. The lobby of the Palace was already adorned with Roberto Gari's famous portrait of Judy Garland , in the wake of Garland's death on June 22, Garland having given a series of legendary performances at the theatre. And as is also traditional around here, the Movie Music begins on my birthday I turn 48 today!

This regal composition is one of Rozsa 's best. My favorite version is by Wes Montgomery on his masterpiece album, " Boss Guitar " audio clip at that link. Its groove was so distinctive to its era that, 20 years later, it opened the soundtrack to the film, " Boogie Nights " listen to an audio clip here. The "Best Picture" showed us some of the horrific, lingering physical and psychological effects of war even so-called "good wars" on those who survive it. The Best Supporting Actor , Harold Russell , also received an honorary award for "bringing hope and courage to his fellow veterans.

One philosopher from whose work I have learned much , apparently despised this film and " It's a Wonderful Life " for shame! I could write a few articles about how far she missed the mark like I did for " A Christmas Carol " and " Ben-Hur " , but, suffice it to say, sometimes you can appreciate works of art on many different levels, even if some mixed premises ooze into the script.

This film came out a year after the end of the most horrific war in human history, one that this particular philosopher opposed. But there's a reason the American public responded to the film. The struggles of its survivng veterans were palpable and resonated with its war weary audience. One of the aspects of this film that got well deserved recognition was Friedhofer's soundtrack.

And for that, Bravo, Maestro! Johnson and James Torme , son of the late, great jazz singer Mel Torme. Today is young Torme's 42nd birthday , and I'd like to highlight a few tracks from that fine album both today and tomorrow. Check out this Torme-penned track , with its melodic line and rhythmic feel [YouTube link]. Bewitched, Bothered, and Bewildered , a great Rodgers and Hart tune from " Pal Joey ," kicks off our mini-tribute in honor of Halloween week okay, so the song has nothing to do with witches and goblins, even if it has "bewitched" in the title While the original mix is classic Blige, nothing compares to the scalding Moto Blanco dance remix audio clips at those links.

And if it weren't for the relationship forged between Wyler and Heston in this film, Chuck would never have gone on to Oscar glory in " Ben-Hur. Listen to an audio clip of this classic house track here. It has been played by country and jazz artists alike. Billie Jean , music, lyrics, and performance by Michael Jackson , was one of the biggest hits from one of the biggest selling albums of all time, " Thriller " check out audio clip at that link. Its video also made a big splash at MTV.

Like so many others, I saw Jackson perform this classic song live, with his famous moonwalk , at the 25th anniversary tribute to Motown back on May 16, But not even that compared to his live performance of it at The Garden , where I saw him in on the " Jacksons' Victory Tour ," and, especially, in , on his solo " Bad Tour. And happy birthday to fellow MJ fan, Abe. With clever rapping by McCoy and the smooth vocals of Bruno Mars , I can't think of a more appropriate song to feature on a day when the country is crazy for the Mega Millions Lottery , with the largest jackpot in history now roaring past half-a-billion bucks.

Hey, You Never Know! So while you're waiting for the winning numbers, check out the music video to this cool song , a Danyo Wallem remix Explicit Content Warning! Bim-Bom , written by Joao Gilberto , has been recorded by many artists. Listen to audio clips of various renditions of this lively Brazilian tune: Birdland was composed by Joe Zawinul , the keyboardist of the jazz-fusion group Weather Report , which recorded it for their seventh studio album, " Heavy Weather " Named after one of the great 52nd Street jazz clubs in New York City , which took its name from the nickname of be bop pioneer, alto saxophonist Charlie "Bird" Parker , it became a landmark Grammy-nominated jazz-fusion track.

But the Grammy Award went to The Manhattan Transfer a few years later, for their jazz vocalese version of the celebrated track. The lyrics for the track were written by Jon Hendricks of the always-fascinating vocalese group, Lambert, Hendricks, and Ross , though Eddie Jefferson had started writing lyrics for the piece before his untimely death. The Manhattan Transfer version appears on my favorite album of theirs: Check out the original instrumental classic by Weather Report and the equally classic vocalese version by The Manhattan Transfer [YouTube links].

But today is the birthday of Ol' Blue Eyes , who himself was deeply influenced by jazz and the blues. And what better way to celebrate it than with one of Frank Sinatra 's hits it spent five weeks on the Billboard charts. Black Cat , written and performed by Janet Jackson , from her socially conscious " Rhythm Nation " album check out that audio clip. It may not be " Black Dog ," and Janet may not be a bona fide rock singer, but she got a much-deserved Grammy nomination for " Best Rock Vocal Performance, Female. One of their most memorable hits with a classic rock riff.

Check out audio clip here. From her debut album ; check out the clip at amazon. From the Jacksons' album, " Destiny ," take a YouTube trip down memory lane.

And check out Mick Jackson's original version on YouTube as well! She will be truly missed. Listen to this song on YouTube , so reflective of a great era for pop music. He recorded this title song for his forthcoming second album. He provides us with an exercise in human authenticity in a revealing interview for Billboard 's Pride Issue.

Tomorrow, we'll have more to say about the 'prideful' meaning of these dates in late June. Fats Domino , who died yesterday at the age of This song was a staple of the s swing era, but became an early rock and roll classic when Domino recorded it in Check out the original Domino single [YouTube link]. Blue Bloods "Reagan's Theme" [YouTube link], composed by Rob Simonsen on a show to which composer Mark Snow , of " X-Files " fame also contributes , is a wonderful theme for a show whose passion is not drawn so much from the danger and violence of New York City police life, but from the trials, tribulations, and poignant bonds of love among the individuals of a family working in various areas of law enforcement.

It often moves me emotionally, as does the theme every time I hear it. It stars, among others, a strong Tom Selleck and combustive Donnie Wahlberg. Blue Bossa is a jazz standard composed by jazz trumpeter Kenny Dorham. It's a lilting bossa nova that has been recorded by many artists, including jazz greats Joe Pass and J.

It was used to classic effect in the Stanley Kubrick -directed film, " Blue Monk , composed by Thelonious Monk , has become a jazz standard. Check out the original Monk recording , and other renditions as well, including one featuring the lyrics of Abbey Lincoln , another vocal version by Carmen McRae and finally, a swinging solo piano recording by McCoy Tyner [YouTube links]. There's a classic Frankie Lane-Michel Legrand rendition of this song but no audio clip. But there are so many other renditions from which to choose: Thielmans first recorded this song whistling in unison with his guitar lines.

Thielemans is a consummate musician, and my favorite jazz harmonica player too. But there is music that achieves eternal shelf life just from a cinematic association , as we have seen with "Cinderfella" Jerry Lewis. Talk about a cross-generational impact. This one's a keeper. Blue Suede Shoes was composed and performed by Carl Perkins audio clip at that link. Today, however, I highlight my favorite version of this song, recorded by The King , birthday boy Elvis Presley.

Listen to an audio clip of this early rock and roll classic here. Of instrumental versions, my favorites are the classic Coleman Hawkins tenor saxophone rendition and a superb version by jazz violinist Joe Venuti , recorded for his album "Fiddle on Fire," on the Grand Award Record label. Body Heat "Main Title" soundtrack album audio clip at that link is a bluesy, jazzy, steamy composition by the great John Barry. Listen to an audio clip of a rendition by the " Jazz at the Movies Band. Yes, he's a tot!

The opening and closing bars of this classic dance track are oh-so-jazzy. Boogie Wonderland , music and lyrics by Jon Lind and Allee Willis , was a collaborative performance between two funky musical groups: Earth, Wind, and Fire and The Emotions. It remains a dance highlight of the Disco '70s. Today marks the day that Earth, Wind, and Fire actually made its debut on the Billboard album chart, back in It was also recorded in , in an updated, revved-up version by Bette Midler , who dubbed all three vocal parts, and took it into the Billboard Top Ten.

That original version was recorded by Mabel Scott [YouTube link]. Have a safe and Merry Christmas Eve! Listen to audio clips of versions by Andy Williams , Matt Monro , and from the original soundtrack. Born to Be Alive , music, lyrics, and performance by Patrick Hernandez , was a huge 1 dance hit in Happy 50th anniversary to Atlas Shrugged , the Ayn Rand novel that celebrates human beings who are Check out this song on YouTube. Bossa Dorado , composed by French guitarist and violinist Dorado Schmitt , is a fitting exploration of " gypsy jazz ," which owes its origins to the great jazz guitarist Django Reinhardt , whose birthday we celebrated yesterday.

It shows the remarkable range of Django's influence on jazz. Accordian player Ludovic Beier delivers a wonderful live take on this Schmitt composition [YouTube link], which fuses gypsy jazz with a Latin feel. Bo ssa Nova U. Brubeck , who passed away today , was one of the greatest innovators in modern jazz. Listen to this song on YouTube.

Boulevard of Broken Dreams , music and lyrics by Green Day , is a song from the album " American Idiot " audio clip at that link. It's an anthem to alienation, with a nice pulse and memorable hook. Matt Damon takes on the role of Jason Bourne in this film , the first film in the Bourne film series. He would go on to star in four of the five films in the series thus far.

I'm particularly fond of a version played by the great classical violinist Yehudi Menuhin with the Bath Festival Orchestra. Listen to audio clips of versions by Sarah Vaughan and Michel Legrand. It was a huge funky hit for The Commodores audio clip at that link. The Empire State Building. This movie is the first and the best of the sequels to " Frankenstein. Listen to the classic opening theme here [mp3 link]. Powell provides the vocals, with the Mills Brothers, for this song in the movie [YouTube link].

With the Tony Awards being broadcast on CBS on Sunday night , this is a Broadway weekend, even if this particular song didn't come from a Broadway show! This is just one of those love stories that tugs at the heart strings, perhaps because in the end [semi-spoiler alert! It's a romantic story about the power of love and the power of home.

Fuhgedaboudit [YouTube link to a classic exchange in the film " Donnie Brasco "! Just the greatest borough in the greatest city on earth in this regard, " IMHO " is not part of my acronymic vocabulary! But love is universal, so Happy Valentine's Day to all! And speaking of the Brooklyn Bridge , I was there on the Brooklyn Heights Promenade on 24 May to commemorate the structure's th anniversary when the Grucci Family put on one of the most spectacular fireworks displays I've ever seen, with fiery "waterfalls" coming off the span and magnificent, colorful rockets launching from the cathedral-like towers.

Listen to a Frank Sinatra au dio clip of this song from the film here. Taking a lick from the military morning trumpet call , the song jumps off and swings to a glorious finish. James was so much the matinee idol of the jazz trumpet that my mother, a screaming teenager back then, nearly fell out of the balcony of the Brooklyn Paramount , watching him in concert with the Goodman band. You can listen to many of the actual studio recordings of BG during the era, but it was in live performance that the great clarinetist earned his stripes as the King of Swing. Check it out here and also the original Kings rendition , a rendition by Jack Pettis and His Pets in , a Glenn Miller version , and one by the Strings Orchestra.

Memorial Day is normally a somber holiday; let's take a cue from the New Orleans spirit that remembered the dead with musical celebration; if the departed were going to Paradise, they'd have soared there with this jazz classic. I enjoyed dancing to the original 12" vinyl mix , which was less guitar-driven than its album incarnation on the singer's debut release.

Listen to audio clips of the album version and that 12" single. Boy does this bring back memories Listen to an audio clip of one of her tender renditions here. But Not For Me is a classic George and Ira Gershwin song introduced in the Broadway production of " Girl Crazy " and performed in both the and film versions too that has been recorded by countless artists from Ella Fitzgerald to Sarah Vaughan to Linda Ronstadt audio clips at those links.

For a change of pace, check out an audio clip of a version by the original " space cadet ," Sun Ra. A happy and a healthy to 1 Herman Blount Sun Ra Expert , my colleague and pal Robert Campbell , who also celebrates his birthday today. On this date, in , Taylor was born. Paul Lynde made a career in the center square of the old game show " Hollywood Squares " for which he won two Daytime Emmy Awards , his answers so typically hilarious , and, of course, he was the warlock Uncle Arthur on the classic TV series, ' Bewitched. Check out the original Broadway cast recording , the ensemble film version , and a few really swinging renditions by: Chita Rivera who was in the original musical; this one is about 2 minutes into her " Great Performances " concert , Sammy Davis, Jr.

So we end our mini-Broadway tribute today; enjoy the Tony Awards tonight! As a baby, I'm tributing three of my favorite songs from that year from this musical, also adapted for the film version. It was, of course, the screen version that I saw as a kid and loved. Check out the cast album version and the film version [YouTube links] both performed by the ever-cheerful Dick van Dyke , joined by Janet Leigh in the film version and then jump on over to the joyful rendition of our Queens-born neighbor , Tony Bennett [YouTube link], who turns 80 years old on August 3rd and we'll be doing a mini-tribute to him as well.

It was later recorded by American country music singer Glen Campbell as the title track to his album. Campbell would go on to amass awards across the spectrum of American music, while also appearing in a dozen films. Today, he died at the age of 81 , following a long battle with Alzheimer's Disease.

This song was 20 on the Top songs of the twentieth century by BMI , ranked according to the number of times they were played on television and radio. Even Ol' Blue Eyes called this the " greatest torch song ever written.

Cabaret was one of the best musicals on Broadway that I've ever seen. The revival was an entertainment tour de force, powerful and deeply effective in its exploration of universal themes. The songs , written by John Kander and now, the late Fred Ebb , are boisterous, melodic, witty, and clever. So here's to the title song The song is a Dean Martin signature tune. Here is the scene from the film and the classic Dean Martin recording [YouTube links]. I was a mobile DJ in college and the Dance Bug is part of my genome. I still listen to current and recent hits, and really enjoyed DNCE 's live performance of this last night because they did a " Le Freak " Chic mash up with the iconic producer, composer, and musician Nile Rodgers.

Check out the official video naughty words included and the iHeart Radio Awards version. Calabria , produced by Rune DJ Enur , featuring the late Natasja Saad , is the soundtrack for one of the hottest Target commercials on the air. The two women roommates who stage a "dance off" to this track express infectious joy as they decorate their room see the commercial on YouTube.

The track features a sample from a Taana Gardner disco classic: Check out a full-version video clip of this track at YouTube. Calamity Jane "Secret Love" , music by Sammy Fain , lyrics by Paul Francis Weber , was composed for the movie musical , where it was introduced by the incomparable Doris Day , who celebrated her 92nd birthday on April 3rd.

With a melody based on the opening theme of the A-major piano Sonata D. A belated 92nd Happy Birthday to one of the world's greatest animal lovers , who will always be an Award-winner in my songbook! California Dreamin' , words and music by John Phillips and Michelle Phillips , was a huge pop hit for The Mamas and the Papas , sporting a wonderful alto flute solo by one of my all-time favorite jazz musicians: Bud Shank , who was born on this day in , and became one of the finest musicians in the West Coast jazz scene.

It's not a "winter's day" in Brooklyn; we've had summer-like weather for awhile. But I'm dreamin' of a particular California attraction that celebrates its 75th anniversary today: Happy Birthday to the Golden Gate Bridge! On this track, even Oscar-award winning actress Halle Berry makes a cameo appearance. Check out the album version [YouTube link] and a live performance at the Apollo [DailyMotion link, around the minute mark].

Call Me , words and music by Randy Muller , was performed by the group Skyy. It's particularly fitting on this day, the th anniversary of the first phone call made by Alexander Graham Bell to Thomas A. Over the next week or so, I'll have a few more favorite musical "calls" to make, in honor of this anniversary. And "for all you frustrated musicians," see here , where you can access directions on how to play songs on your touch-tone phone. Vissi recorded the song previously as " Ise " in Greek. Listen to an audio clip of this song among others on disc 2 of Vic Latino's Ultra Dance It's a warm '60s chestnut.

Call Me , words and music by Giorgio Moroder and Deborah Harry , the lead singer of the group Blondie , was the theme from the film, " American Gigolo. This song is probably my favorite Blondie track in contrast to my favorite, and beloved, Blondie. Listen to an audio clip from the original soundtrack. I love a string jazz guitar version by Joe Pass. It provides what was probably "the year's most gripping hook," making it "one of the most irrefutable teen-pop songs in history," as New York Daily News music critic Jim Farber attests.

Olympics Swimming Team [YouTube links]. It's a song that should be on any year-end countdown. Tonight we'll be counting down till the ball drops in Times Square. Have a happy, healthy, and safe New Year's Eve! This classic Beatles track is still one of my all-time favorite kickin' rock 'n roll songs. Performed by LeAnn Rimes , it's a peppy track that's been remixed fabulously for the dance floor as well; check out various versions, including this YouTube moment , this remix and this one too.

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Can't Stop the Feeling! This is Timberlake's fifth solo 1 Hit and, perhaps, the most retro-disco sounding recording of his career. The voice cast has fun with the song in a pre-release video , even as the official video was released this week [YouTube links]. I remain a life-long Timberlake fanatic, and disco just might usher me through the Pearly Gates or the Disco Inferno , whichever is in store for me. Since posting this as Song of the Day , the video community has provided us with hilarious takes on the song; check out the Storm Troopers videos, Part 1 , Part 2 , Part 3 , and Part 4.

And the DJ community has provided us with a plethora of wonderfully diverse remixes: The song has shown up in many films as well, including " The Deer Hunter " Listen to an audio clip here , and also to alternative versions by Gloria Gaynor and Lauryn Hill. Can You Handle It? This classic " Prelude label " dance track was performed by the late Sharon Redd. It was one of those dance classics that has been remixed several times, but never at the expense of its wonderful feel.

Capote "Out There" [YouTube link], composed by Mychael Danna , is a simple theme that holds within it the complexity of the person at the center of the film , Truman Capote , and the complexity of the performance of Philip Seymour Hoffman , who won a Best Actor Oscar for the role.

Sadly, this year old actor passed away yesterday ; death need not be tragic, since it is an organic part of life, but when it comes so young to an actor with so much talent and promise, I can find few other words to describe it. Cappucino audio clip at that link is a Chick Corea composition that made its debut on the phenomenal album " Friends.

Captain America "Theme Song" , composer mysteriously unknown , was the classic theme song to the s Marvel Super Heroes cartoon. It's a favorite from my childhood , and while there have been lots of takes on Captain America , this one still holds a special place in my heart. Take a look at the animated opening theme [YouTube link], and have a safe and happy Independence Day! It was made famous by the Ellington orchestra audio clips here and here.

Among the scores of recordings of this song, my favorite version of this tune remains one recorded by Johnny Pate's orchestra featuring the burning bold boss guitar of Wes Montgomery. Listen to an audio clip of that version here. And so, for now, I conclude my Ellington tribute! Carol of the Bells emerges from a fascinating musical lineage , based on a musical composition by Mykola Dmytrovich Leontovych.

Most riveting when performed with a full chorus as in this Robert Shaw Chorale audio clip or full orchestra as in this Leonard Bernstein audio clip. Ring in a Happy New Year! It's one of those sensitively performed compositions, which has had a tendency to bring a bit of a puddle to my tear ducts. Listen to an audio clip of Henry Mancini here too. Actually, Craig 's " Skyfall " is one of my favorite Bond flicks.

But today's tribute goes to Cornell , another talent gone too soon.

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Check out the opening credits [YouTube link], and while you're at it, check out Cornell's transformative version of the Michael Jackson hit, " Billie Jean " [YouTube link]. RIP , Chris Cornell. It is featured on the album " Confessions " audio clip at that link. Like " Yeah ," this one's got a big bass line, minimalist instrumentation, and a great hook.

Check out the Champion vocal pipes of Underwood in the Super Bowl opening and in the official video, which features a rap by Bridges aka Ludacris [YouTube links]. Chained to the Rhythm features the words and music of Skip Marley grandson of Bob , and featured on the track , Max Martin , Sia Furler , Ali Payami , and Katy Perry , who released this recording as the first single from her fifth studio album, " Witness " In fact, it was the seventeenth consecutive 1 Dance Club single for Perry , the longest unbroken streak of 1 dance club hits in the history of the Billboard Dance charts.

Charade is another magnificent collaboration between composer Henry Mancini and lyricist Johnny Mercer. It was nominated for a Academy Award for Best Song , featured on the beautiful score for the classic Cary Grant - Audrey Hepburn film of the same title, the best Hitchcock movie Hitchcock never directed. One of my favorite versions of this song is an instrumental rendering by jazz guitarist Joe Pass , who plays it on the string guitar. Listen to audio clips from the original soundtrack here and a version by Andy Williams. The Charge of the Light Brigade "The Charge" [Screen Archives Entertainment mp3 link], written by the legendary Golden Age film score composer Max Steiner , captures the excitement of the climactic scene in this film , starring the swashbuckling Errol Flynn.

This is one of the great Oscar-nominated soundtracks in cinema history. Check it out as well on YouTube as conducted by William Stromberg. The Charleston , composed by stride pianist James P. Johnson , with lyrics by Cecil Mack , was featured in the all-black Broadway musical comedy " Runnin' Wild ," which debuted at the New Colonial Theatre on October 29, One of the most famous recordings of this jazz age standard was recorded in France on April 21, by the Quintette du Hot Club de France , featuring violinist extraordinaire Stephane Grappelli , the immortal jazz guitarist Django Reinhardt , guitar sidemen Pierre Ferret and Marcel Bianchi , and bassist Louis Vola.

Established far away from the American soil that originated the art form, the Quintette contributed to the rise of jazz as a genuine global cultural contribution. And subsequently, the group had a huge impact on American jazz musicians. Indeed, Reinhardt alone is credited as one of the most influential guitarists in jazz history. As Bill Dahl put it: Les Paul , Chet Atkins , B. This year's festival takes place today in Paris, France.

Vive Le Jazz Hot! Listen to audio clips of renditions by Frank Sinatra , Ella Fitzgerald , and of course, from the original film, Fred Astaire. My favorite jazz rendition of this song is by alto sax player Phil Woods , " Live from the Showboat ," an album that won the Grammy for " Best Instrumental Jazz Performance, Group " unfortunately no audio clip is available. Che La Luna Mezzo Mare is an Italian folksong composed, it is said, by Paolo Citorello , but infinite variations of the song have been heard throughout the years.

Growing up in the Sciabarra household, we heard the bouncy Louis Prima-Keely Smith version [YouTube link], with its funny double entendres sung in both Italian and English. At the wedding, Mama Corleone played by Morgana King is invited to the stage to begin the verses of the classic song; an old man, not unlike many I've seen at countless Italian weddings that I've attended since childhood, gets up, and completes the verses with the kind of hilariously perverse body language that the song inspires.

How appropriate to note this song today, for 40 years ago, on this date, on the Ides of March in , " The Godfather " had its U. Yes, it has a haunting Nino Rota soundtrack. Cherish features the words and music of Terry Kirkman , a founding member of The Association , which scored a Number 1 hit with this song in Cherokee features the words and music of Ray Noble.

As an aside, the Cherokee word for "Groundhog" is "Ogana". Punxsutawney Phil tells us six more weeks of winter Chicago , words and music by Cory Rooney , is a sweet track on Michael Jackson 's posthumously released album, " Xscape. Listen to the track on YouTube , and the original demo MJ recorded as well. After the Red Sox , there are no more curses in baseball. Maybe the Chicago Cubs are next! Or maybe these triumphs are only possible for teams named after different kinds of, uh, socks. Either way, listen here to an audio clip of Frank Sinatra singing this timeless tune.

A Child is Born , words and music by Alec Wilder and Thad Jones , is a song that has come to be identified with this day, but it has also become a jazz standard. A sad loss for lovers of music to contemplate on this Christmas Day. The Children of Sanchez "Overture" , words, music, film score written and performed by Chuck Mangione , comes from the Latin- and jazz-infused score that has a musical integrity quite apart from the fact that it's from a film , starring Anthony Quinn , that I've still yet to see!

The theme made the hair of many New York tri-state area kids of the s stand on end including this one. The show was hosted early on by the great Zacherley before switching to the film montage of memory, with clips from such films as " Plan 9 from Outer Space ," " The Cyclops ," and " Attack of the 50 Foot Woman.

Chinatown "Love Theme" [aural clip at that link], music by Jerry Goldsmith , is stated simply by a bluesy trumpet soloist, harking back to its s' setting, accompanied by a full panoply of modern harmonies. Evoking solitude, this composition was written for the Roman Polanski -directed film noir classic , starring Jack Nicholson and Faye Dunaway. Goldsmith's mentor was Miklos Rozsa , who passed onto his pupil a melodic sensitivity that is readily apparent in this work.

It brings back cheerful memories of childhood. It still makes me chuckle. The original lyrics to the jingle boasted: Today, however, inflation has taken its toll, and the lyrics have been adjusted accordingly: Christos Anesti is a traditional hymn sung first at the midnight liturgy as the " paschal toparian " or celebratory hymn of the resurrection of Jesus Christ in the Greek and Eastern Orthodox churches to mark the arrival of Easter. Though its authorship is unknown, it has been attributed to Romanos the Melodist , the " Pindar of rhythmic poetry.

Growing up, this Easter hymn was, perhaps, my favorite; check out a lovely version of it on YouTube, featuring the actress Irene Papas with Vangelis. It depicts the faithful carrying lit candles, that begin to lift the darkened church at midnight into light, as a single candle is passed on to the faithful one by one until the entire church is filled with the light of rebirth and renewal.

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I want to wish all my orthodox family and friends a very Happy Easter! And it being the 1st of May, May it be a revolutionary one! It was later recorded by Jo Stafford [YouTube link]. A very Merry Christmas with peace on earth and goodwill to one and all! The Herald Angels Sing " with a grim theme of beckoning menace, foreshadowing the fate-altering tale of Ebenezer Scrooge , played in this film by the utterly superb Alastair Sim of all the cinematic treatments of this timeless Charles Dickens tale , this one is my favorite. Addinsell wrote one of my all-time favorite popular concertos " Warsaw Concerto ".

And he's in fine form here too. There are one or two neat videos on YouTube that provide an entertaining side-by-side comparison of the various Scrooges portrayed in film over the past century or so. This concludes my mini-tribute to music from Christmas-oriented films, "in keeping with the situation" of this holiday season.

The song has been panned by quite a few critics, but whatever your spiritual beliefs, this is just one of those songs that tugs at your heart. The warmth of his voice matches those chestnuts roasting on an open fire. Happy birthday to my friend JR! Christmas Time is Here was composed and performed by the ever-recognizable pianist Vince Guaraldi. Also check out audio clips from lovely versions by Diane Reeves , Mel Torme , Anita Baker , and Brian McKnight , who is featured on a tribute album in honor of the 40th anniversary of the wonderful Peanuts cartoon.

Also listen to another jazz instrumental rendering by the Airmen of Note the premier jazz ensemble of the United States Air Force. I don't how those razor-thin models reacted to a song extolling the virtues of "girls with the big old hoops," but Bruno was 1 on the runway for me. Oh, and check out this great cinema montage set to the Mars-Ronson hit, "Uptown Funk". Ciaconna from "Partita in D-minor for Violin No. One of the greatest composers of all time, Bach wrote music that was definitive of the Baroque period.

This work has a special place in my heart, and I was able to track it down with the help of my friend Roger E. Ironically, however, I was first made aware of the piece due to an extraordinary video posted on YouTube in memory of jazz guitarist Joe Pass. It was recorded at the Adelaide Festival S. It is heard during a seminar that included Spanish flamenco guitarist Paco Pena , blues guitarist Leo Kottke , classical guitarist John Williams not the film score composer , whose birthday we celebrated last month as part of my annual Film Music February series , and jazz guitarist Joe Pass.

Beginning at around 2: Guitarist Williams is obviously fascinated by the spontaneous improvisation of the jazz artist, and to illustrate the spontaneity and brilliance of the process, he lays down the basic melodic structure of the Chaconne , and invites Pass to improvise simultaneously over that melody. Pass throws in a few jazz licks that get a chuckle out of the audience, but the whole video provides us with a lesson on the universality of music. Check out the video clip here [YouTube link]. It was on this date in that the Disney film, " Cinderalla ," was released.

This is one of the loveliest songs to emerge from the Disney musical catalogue. Listen to the original animated version of this song [YouTube link] and then check out an instrumental rendition that is among my favorites; it was recorded by the Rob Mounsey Orchestra for the album, " Jazz Loves Disney " [YouTube link]. Legrand also directed this film , and in case you were wondering, the song is delivered with soul and grace by the only Ray Charles , accompanied by the greatest jazz harmonica player to have ever graced this earth, Toots Thielemans , both men no longer with us.

The soundtrack is pure Legrand , but boasts a few pieces by some lightweight composers, folks like Frederic Chopin and Johann Sebastian Bach. In any event, Happy 85th Birthday to one of my all-time favorite musical innovators , a brilliant and legendary composer who also happens to be a remarkable jazz musician. Listen to an audio clip from their magnificent album, " Equinox. Claire de Lune , written by the French Impressionist composer Claude Debussy , the third movement of his Suite Bergamasque , has been recorded by many orchestras, including this lovely version by the Philadelphia Orchestra , conducted by Eugene Ormandy.

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I also adore a jazz version, featuring the Michel Legrand Orchestra, with alto saxophone soloist Phil Woods , from the album, " Images. It is a highlight from one of my favorite all-time musicals, " The Sound of Music ," sung in the film version by the character Mother Abbess, played by Peggy Wood. Listen to audio clips of this uplifting song from the soundtrack album , as well as from the original Broadway production , the London production , the studio cast album , and the Broadway revival.

Close Encounters of the Third Kind "Main Theme" [YouTube link], music by John Williams , is featured today, for it was on this date that the great composer was born in The Oscar-nominated score for this wonderful sci-fi film shows us, in five simple notes, that music really is the universal language. Alas, Williams lost the Oscar for this film that year to another film score of his: I'll give you a hint: See if you can catch it, uh, while you can. And Happy Birthday, Maestro! C'mon Marianne , words and music by L. As our Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons tribute concludes , listen to an audio clip of this pop smash here.

My sister-in-law Joanne Barry used to do a hair-raising, glass-breaking version of this on stage, but I also love a slammin' Sammy Davis Jr. The Sammy Davis Jr. The song can also be found on Disc 3 of " Ultimate Sinatra. Comedian's Galop is a long-time favorite, composed by Dmitri Borisovitch Kabalevsky as part of an orchestral suite, " The Comedians.

Also check out audio clips from the full suite, performed by the San Diego Chamber Orchestra. Come Fly with Me , music by Jimmy Van Heusen , lyrics by Sammy Cahn , sung by a carefree Sinatra to a smooth Billy May arrangement, from the album of the same name check out that audio clip.

The Winter Solstice arrives today at 7: ET, and what a nice way to celebrate it: Above the clouds, "where the air is rarefied Come Together , words and music by Paul McCartney and John Lennon , was the first Beatles single to go to 1 in November as part of a two-sided number one single with " Something ". It appears on " Abbey Road ," the final recorded Beatles album. As we commemorate the 25th anniversary of John Lennon's murder , listen to audio clips of this song recorded by Ike and Tina Turner who took it to 57 in , Aerosmith who took it to 23 in , and Michael Jackson who has performed it in concert as well.

This " Paradise Garage " dance classic packed the floors in And I was among those dancing the night away to its rhymes and rhythms. Listen to audio clips from three renditions: Concerto for Viola Opus 37 audio clips at that link, featuring viola soloist Paul Silverthorne is a richly textured four-movement work that is one of composer Miklos Rozsa 's orchestral triumphs.

Concerto for Violin and Orchestra, Op. Listen to audio clips of all three movements from the debut recording by violinist Jascha Heifetz , and another recording by violinist Robert McDuffie. I saw this grand piece performed live with violin soloist Glenn Dicterow and the New York Philharmonic. What better way to celebrate the First Anniversary of " Song of the Day "!

I'll be posting music favorites sometimes more than one on a single day! The piece features an improvised piano introduction and an improvised cadenza, enveloped by composed orchestrations. Listen to various audio clips here. Concierto de Aranjuez is one of the greatest and most memorable compositions of Joaquin Rodrigo. Julian Bream recorded this classical guitar evergreen many times, but my favorite version is that recorded with the Melos Chamber Orchestra, conducted by Colin Davis , which received a Grammy nomination for " Best Classical Performance Instrumental Soloist with Orchestra.

This concerto reminds me of my dear pal Lou, to whom I send birthday wishes today for much health, happiness, and success. But today it is posted in tribute to all the residents of Coney Island , who live just a few Brooklyn blocks away from me, and who survived evacuation , the shutdown of the NYC subway system , and Irene herself , which was downgraded from a Hurricane to a Tropical Storm. So here's a doo-wop shout out: The World of Confirmation , music by Charlie Parker , lyrics by Eddie Jefferson , has been recorded by many instrumentalists and vocalists.

With a line that says "Everyday was Spring to Me," this melancholy Brazilian song is one of the highlights on a Brasil 66 album entitled " Equinox " audio clip at that link. Listen also to two audio clips from Miriam Makeba. Controversy , words and music by Prince , begins our mini-birthday tribute to the Purple One , who tragically passed away last month, but whose birthday we will celebrate on June 7th.

And I'll have plenty of Prince songs featured in next year's February Film Music Month and in a special musical project I have planned for the Summer of I have already listed several Prince classics on "My Favorite Songs" list: Am I straight or gay? Prince was very protective of his recorded music, so check out the link to a live version here. This coming week, I will begin what has now become an annual Summer series: There was a time when if I heard Barry Manilow's name announced on the radio, I'd roll my eyes; that changed as the years went by, especially when I discovered his superb jazz-infused album, " 2: Cotton Tail chord changes at that link was composed by Edward Kennedy "Duke" Ellington , but "vocalese" lyrics were added later by J.

Hendricks of Lambert, Hendricks, and Ross audio clip here. It was recorded in a classic rendition by the Duke listen to an audio clip here and also in a Duke session with three violinists Stephane Grappelli , Svend Asmussen , and Ray Nance. Stay tuned for a Mega-Duke Tribute , coming up in December. I also love a Wes Montgomery blazing guitar version; listen to an audio clip of that rendition here. The Greatest Hits " The original track never hit the Billboard Dance Chart , but it provides the kind of chill rhythmic pulse best for sensual dancing.

Listen to an audio clip from the classic Rosemary Clooney rendition. Listen to an audio clip of this jazzy cartoon theme, from one of my favorite childhood cartoons, here. The theme features certain phrases that are quintessentially Horner such unique phrases are a hallmark of virtually all composers, whether for the concert stage or the silver screen.

Gone too soon, James Horner left a body of work that has withstood the test of time. Coventry Carol is a traditional English carol from the sixteenth century whose words are attributed to Robert Croo. I always associated this gorgeous, haunting carol with the alternate version of " Away in a Manger ," because it was recorded in a medley by the Living Strings featured on an album, " The Spirit of Christmas ," which I finally got after about 35 years of searching for it!

Crazy , music and lyrics by Willie Nelson , was performed as a classic country song by the late, great Patsy Cline listen to audio clip here. Nelson himself has recorded the song several times; listen to one audio clip here. This was the lead single from Beyonce's debut solo album, " Dangerously in Love ," and it is highlighted by a guest rap from the man she'd marry in , Jay Z. The song went to 1 on the Billboard Hot and reached the peak of the Dance Club chart on September 13, due to a few stylish dance remixes. Check out the original video single , the Pat.

Happy birthday, Queen Bee! One of my all-time favorite Elton songs, this one still rocks. And Happy Birthday, Sir Elton! Cute , composed by Neil Hefti , is one of those familiar tracks that has been heard everywhere, thanks to the famous chart Hefti wrote for the Count Basie Orchestra , featuring the fabulous fills of drummer Sonny Payne , who was born on this date in The most memorable cinematic treatment of this tune, where one can see Music as Comedy and Comedy as Music, can be found in " Cinderfella "; watch how Jerry Lewis Does the Dishes.

They dominated that chart with this song and its companion tracks "Everybody Dance" and "You Can Get By" for 8 weeks in the fall of We are on the precipice of another Autumnal Equinox , which doesn't arrive until The double-sided hits held the 1 spot on the Billboard Dance Disco Chart for six weeks in the summer of We're partying straight through to the 4th of July, so don't you even think of leaving the dance floor! Dancer , words and music by Gino Soccio , appeared on his debut album, " Outline.

In all my years of being an on-again, off-again mobile DJ till the late s, and Gema LaBoccetta ought to know since she was one of my DJ partners back in the day! And the - period brought back much excitement to the dance floor, due especially to the 11 weeks that all of Michael Jackson 's " Thriller " dance cuts held the top spot on the Billboard Dance Club chart.

But the Disco era sported a variety of creative tempos and rhythms , which have influenced all dance music since, from hip hop to house to techno. This track, however, dispenses with social commentary, and is unapologetically propulsive in its beat and simple in its "message": Try to take it higher. Listen to an audio clip here , just in time for All Souls' Day. Interests in computers, gadgetry, technology and intelligence gathering finally compelled him to begin writing techno-thrillers with these as strong story elements.

His continuing action protagonist, Deke Gannon, is a resourceful alumnus of Britain's Special Air Service, deeply schooled in the martial arts of Japan and a genius with computers. Deke and InterTel associate Maynard Calegory Cross are dedicated to fighting terrorism and drug trafficking worldwide. Visit my website at www. Are you an author? Help us improve our Author Pages by updating your bibliography and submitting a new or current image and biography. Learn more at Author Central.

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