PUNMASTER MusicWire by David Gross

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January 3, 2025

In the year 2025….

Cher, Elton John, Bette Midler and Flip Wilson Comedy Skit

I'm diving into Cher's fascinating memoir right now, and it's packed with incredible stories—everything from Sonny to Geffen to Gregg. There's so much to take in! One part that really stood out was her mention of a skit from The Cher Show after her split from Sonny. It was a comedy bit called Final Curtain: Rest Home for Aged Performers, set in the year 2025. I thought I'd share it with you.

The skit featured Cher alongside Elton John, Bette Midler, and Flip Wilson. That same episode also included a memorable duet of "Bennie and the Jets" with Cher and Elton John, as well as an epic medley—"Mockingbird," "Proud Mary," "Ain't No Mountain High Enough," and "Never Can Say Goodbye"—performed by Cher, Elton, Bette, and Flip. Fun fact: the pilot episode of The Cher Show aired on February 12, 1975. Another moment in TV history!

The Softer Side of the British Invasion

The British Invasion of the 1960s brought a wave of fresh sounds to American shores, with energetic rock and roll at its forefront. Yet, within this musical revolution, there existed a softer, more poignant side—an array of tender ballads that continue to stir emotions and evoke nostalgia. These songs, filled with lush melodies and heartfelt lyrics, have an enduring ability to put butterflies in our stomachs. Let’s take a journey through some of these timeless gems, exploring why they resonate so deeply.

“Don’t Let the Sun Catch You Crying” - Gerry and the Pacemakers

Gerry and the Pacemakers were among the Liverpool bands that stormed the US charts. “Don’t Let the Sun Catch You Crying” is a beautifully crafted ballad, characterized by its gentle rhythm and Gerry Marsden’s comforting vocals. The song’s message of hope and resilience in the face of sadness strikes a universal chord, making it a soothing anthem for heartache.

“Ferry Cross the Mersey” - Gerry and the Pacemakers

Another gem from Gerry and the Pacemakers, “Ferry Cross the Mersey” is a love letter to their hometown. The song’s nostalgic tone, combined with its wistful melody, creates a poignant reflection on home and belonging. Its gentle pace and evocative lyrics invite listeners to reminisce about their own cherished memories.

“As Tears Go By” - The Rolling Stones

Departing from their blues-infused rock roots, The Rolling Stones delivered one of their earliest ballads with “As Tears Go By.” The orchestral arrangement and melancholic lyrics showcase a tender vulnerability that contrasts with their usual rebellious image. This softer approach highlights the band’s versatility and emotional depth.

“To Sir With Love” - Lulu

Lulu’s “To Sir With Love” became iconic as the theme for the film of the same name. Her tender vocal delivery, coupled with the song’s heartfelt lyrics, celebrates the impact of a beloved teacher. The orchestration complements Lulu’s voice, creating a timeless ballad that honors gratitude and admiration.

“If I Fell” and “And I Love Her” - The Beatles

The Beatles were masters of blending rock with softer ballads, and “If I Fell” and “And I Love Her” exemplify this duality. “If I Fell” features intricate harmonies and a delicate melody, exploring themes of love and vulnerability. “And I Love Her” showcases Paul McCartney’s tender side, with its romantic lyrics and gentle acoustic arrangement. Both songs reveal the band’s ability to convey deep emotion through simplicity.

“This Boy” - The Beatles

“This Boy” is another testament to The Beatles’ knack for harmonies and emotional depth. The song’s longing lyrics and lush harmonies evoke a sense of yearning and heartache, making it a standout ballad in their early catalog.

“The Sun Ain’t Gonna Shine Anymore” and “Make It Easy on Yourself” - The Walker Brothers

The Walker Brothers brought a dramatic flair to their ballads. “The Sun Ain’t Gonna Shine Anymore” features Scott Walker’s powerful baritone, enveloped in a rich orchestral arrangement. The song’s theme of loneliness and despair is conveyed with haunting beauty. “Make It Easy on Yourself” continues this dramatic approach, with its lush instrumentation and heartfelt plea for understanding.

“Because” - The Dave Clark Five

“Because” by The Dave Clark Five stands out with its melodic simplicity and sincere lyrics. The song’s gentle arrangement and earnest vocal delivery create an intimate atmosphere, making it a tender expression of love and devotion.

“Waterloo Sunset” - The Kinks

The Kinks’ “Waterloo Sunset” is a masterpiece of lyrical and melodic beauty. Ray Davies’ evocative lyrics paint a vivid picture of a serene moment by the river, while the song’s tranquil melody soothes the listener. This ballad captures a fleeting sense of peace and contentment, resonating with anyone who has found solace in a quiet sunset.

“A Groovy Kind of Love” - The Mindbenders

The Mindbenders’ “A Groovy Kind of Love” exudes a sweet, gentle charm. Its simple yet catchy melody, paired with tender lyrics, encapsulates the innocent joy of newfound love. The song’s lightheartedness and sincerity make it a timeless favorite.

“Love is All Around” - The Troggs

“Love is All Around” by The Troggs radiates warmth and positivity. The song’s soothing melody and uplifting lyrics convey a message of universal love and connection, making it an enduring anthem for romantic and platonic relationships alike.

“Go Now” - The Moody Blues

Before their shift to progressive rock, The Moody Blues delivered the heartfelt ballad “Go Now.” The song’s melancholic lyrics and soulful melody convey the pain of a breakup, with Denny Laine’s emotional vocal performance adding to its poignancy.

“Nights in White Satin” and “Tuesday Afternoon” - The Moody Blues

The Moody Blues’ “Nights in White Satin” is a quintessential orchestral rock ballad. Its haunting melody, lush arrangements, and introspective lyrics create a dramatic and emotional experience. “Tuesday Afternoon” continues this orchestral approach, blending serene melodies with reflective lyrics, capturing the fleeting beauty of a perfect afternoon.

“Massachusetts” - The Bee Gees

The Bee Gees’ “Massachusetts” is a nostalgic ballad that evokes a longing for home. The song’s gentle melody and harmonious vocals create a comforting sense of familiarity, making it a poignant ode to the places we hold dear.

The Emotional Resonance of British Invasion Ballads

What is it about these softer songs from the British Invasion era that continues to captivate listeners and evoke such deep emotions? Several elements contribute to their enduring appeal:

Melodic Beauty

These songs are characterized by their beautiful melodies, which are both soothing and memorable. The careful crafting of each tune ensures that it resonates on an emotional level, creating an immediate connection with the listener.

Lyrical Depth

The lyrics of these ballads often explore themes of love, loss, longing, and nostalgia. These universal experiences are conveyed with sincerity and poetic elegance, allowing listeners to relate their own stories and emotions to the songs.

Emotional Vocal Delivery

The vocal performances in these songs are often tender and heartfelt, adding an extra layer of emotional depth. Whether it’s the earnest plea in Gerry Marsden’s voice or the haunting baritone of Scott Walker, the delivery amplifies the songs’ emotional impact.

Rich Arrangements

The orchestral and lush arrangements in many of these ballads add to their emotional weight. The use of strings, harmonies, and intricate instrumentation creates a fuller, more immersive listening experience.

Nostalgia

For many listeners, these songs evoke a sense of nostalgia, transporting them back to the era of the 1960s. The British Invasion was a defining period in music history, and these ballads serve as a poignant reminder of that time, evoking memories and emotions from the past.

The softer side of the British Invasion weaves a rich tapestry of emotional and melodic beauty. These ballads endure because they capture universal experiences—love, loss, and longing—set to melodies that linger in our hearts and minds. They stand as timeless classics, a testament to music’s unmatched ability to move and inspire.

USPS Stamps Its Approval on Allen Toussaint's Musical Legacy with 48th Black Heritage Stamp

The United States Postal Service (USPS) has immortalized the genius of Allen Toussaint, one of New Orleans’ brightest musical stars, with the release of the 48th stamp in the Black Heritage series. This fitting tribute celebrates a musician whose creativity and contributions have shaped the soundscape of American music and etched his name in history as a cultural luminary.

Born in 1938 in the cradle of jazz, Toussaint’s career spanned decades, weaving a rich tapestry of rhythm and blues, jazz, and rock ‘n’ roll. Known for his elegant compositions, masterful piano playing, and innovative production, Toussaint gave the world timeless classics like “Fortune Teller” and “Southern Nights.” His music wasn’t just a sound—it was a story, a celebration, and an unmistakable essence of New Orleans itself.

As a songwriter, arranger, and producer, Toussaint’s genius extended beyond his own performances. He worked with legends such as Paul McCartney, Dr. John, and The Meters, and his songs were embraced by artists like Glen Campbell and The Rolling Stones. His collaborations transcended genres, proving his music’s universal appeal and timeless quality.

The USPS first-day-of-issue event for the Allen Toussaint Black Heritage stamp will take place at the George and Joyce Wein Jazz & Heritage Center in New Orleans on January 30, 2025. This celebration, free and open to the public, promises to honor Toussaint’s legacy in the city that shaped him and that he, in turn, helped to define.

Gary Barksdale, chief postal inspector of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, and Quint Davis, CEO of Festival Productions Inc., will be among those marking this historic occasion. The stamp, designed by USPS art director Ethel Kessler and featuring a photograph by Bill Thompkins, captures Toussaint’s signature grace and style.

This isn’t the first time Toussaint has been recognized for his extraordinary contributions. Among his many accolades are the National Medal of Arts, bestowed by President Barack Obama in 2013; induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 1998; and a posthumous tribute in 2022, when New Orleans renamed Robert E. Lee Boulevard in his honor. The renaming reflects how deeply Toussaint’s spirit resonates within his community, turning what was once a symbol of division into one of unity and celebration.

The Allen Toussaint Black Heritage stamp will be issued in panes of 20 and serve as Forever stamps, ensuring their lasting value. Each time these stamps are used, they will carry not only mail but also the enduring legacy of a man whose music bridged worlds and brought people together.

As the world embraces this tribute, we remember Allen Toussaint not just as a musician but as an architect of sound, a keeper of New Orleans’ heart, and a bridge between the past and the future. His melodies will continue to play, reminding us that art—much like a Forever stamp—knows no expiration date.

The Energetic Legacy of Redd Kross Comes Alive in Born Innocent

For fans of vibrant, genre-bending rock, Born Innocent: The Redd Kross Story is a cinematic gift. Directed by Emmy Award-winner Andrew Reich (Friends), this electrifying documentary dives into the remarkable journey of brothers Jeff and Steven McDonald, the creative core of Redd Kross. Having opened theatrically in Los Angeles to sold-out audiences and critical acclaim, the film now embarks on an extensive North American tour, captivating new audiences in cities like Las Vegas, Austin, Denver, Brooklyn, Toronto, and beyond. With screenings running through January and February 2025, many events feature exclusive Q&A sessions with the McDonald brothers and Reich, offering an intimate look at the band’s turbulent yet triumphant story.

A Fascinating Journey Through Music History

Praised by Variety for its “vivid and focused detail,” Born Innocent chronicles the saga of Redd Kross, a band that has navigated decades of cultural and musical evolution. Formed in 1978 when Jeff was just 15 and Steven a mere 11 years old, the group emerged from the Southern California Hardcore scene before evolving into a kaleidoscopic force of punk, glam, and power-pop. Their story is an emotional rollercoaster filled with colorful chapters: collaborations with icons like David Bowie, brushes with cinematic legends like Francis Ford Coppola, and the enduring connection between their music and cultural phenomena ranging from Black Flag to The Partridge Family.

A Star-Studded Lineup of Voices

The documentary features candid interviews with a who’s who of the music world. Contributions from members of the Go-Go’s, Pearl Jam, Soundgarden, Sonic Youth, Black Flag, and even rising stars like The Linda Lindas highlight the broad impact of Redd Kross. These testimonials paint a vivid picture of the McDonald brothers’ influence on genres ranging from Grunge to Glam Metal, underscoring their underappreciated role as the ultimate rock and roll connectors.

Screenings and Special Events

Audiences can experience Born Innocent in a wide array of venues across the U.S. and Canada. Highlights include a January 6 screening at The Beverly Theater in Las Vegas, followed by a guided tour of the Punk Rock Museum led by Jeff and Steven McDonald alongside director Andrew Reich. Other notable dates include the January 9 screenings at Alamo Drafthouse locations in Los Angeles, Austin, and Denver, and a February 7 event in Hermosa Beach featuring a live Redd Kross performance during the South By South Bay Fest.

A Story of Endurance and Evolution

Beyond its star-studded cameos and archival footage, Born Innocent is, at its core, a heartfelt exploration of sibling dynamics, artistic resilience, and the enduring power of music. The McDonald brothers’ journey—spanning over four decades, dozens of drummers, and countless creative reinventions—is a testament to the spirit of rock and roll lifers.

For a full list of screening dates and ticket information, visit reddkrossfilm.com/watch. Don’t miss your chance to witness this fascinating, genre-defying story of one of rock’s most enduring and eclectic bands.

IN TECH MUSIC NEWS

Music Streaming Market to Surge by $49.63 Billion with North America Leading Growth

The global music streaming market is set to grow by an impressive $49.63 billion between 2024 and 2028, with North America driving 47% of this expansion, according to a Technavio report. The market is expected to achieve a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of over 19.99% during the forecast period.

Key Trends Driving Growth:

1. AI and ML Integration: Music streaming services are leveraging artificial intelligence and machine learning for personalized playlists and recommendations, creating highly tailored user experiences.

2. Live Streaming & Interactive Features: Platforms like YouTube Live and Facebook are popularizing live music videos, while collaborative playlists and social sharing continue to enhance user engagement.

3. Cloud-Based Technology: High-fidelity, lossless streaming powered by cloud infrastructure is increasingly available, improving audio quality and user satisfaction.

Free vs. Subscription Models:

The free streaming segment, supported by ads, remains a key driver of growth, with services like Spotify and YouTube offering accessible options for users. Meanwhile, subscription-based models dominate revenue generation by providing enhanced features like offline listening and ad-free experiences.

Challenges and Opportunities:

• Unauthorized Streaming: Piracy remains a persistent issue, prompting partnerships between platforms and record labels to safeguard intellectual property.

• Virtual Concerts & 5G: Innovations like virtual performances and 5G connectivity are redefining music accessibility, delivering seamless streaming even on the go.

Industry Impact:

Music streaming services have transformed listening habits, making music more accessible through smart devices, mobile apps, and websites. With key players like Spotify, Apple Music, and Amazon Prime Music competing in this dynamic space, the market continues to expand globally while embracing localization and diverse content offerings.

This growth underscores the music streaming industry’s vital role in modern entertainment, blending cutting-edge technology with a global appreciation for music.

A blast from the past…

Chuck Berry - Sweet Little Sixteen (live, 1958) - HD

THE PUNMASTER by David Gross

A feature for your spare time….

Woodstock: The Festival That Defined a Generation | Music Documentary | Mud, Music and Mayhem

Dive into the untold story of Woodstock, the legendary 1969 music festival that became a cultural touchstone, through an immersive documentary featuring exclusive interviews and rarely seen archival footage. This compelling film peels back the layers of myth to reveal the human determination, vision, and sheer logistical ingenuity behind transforming a sleepy rural farm in Bethel, New York, into a haven for over 400,000 seekers of music, peace, and unity.

The documentary captures the chaos and creativity of Woodstock’s organizers as they grappled with impossible odds—last-minute venue changes, financial strains, and the logistical nightmare of hosting a crowd that dwarfed expectations. It also celebrates the festival's unparalleled performances by legends like Jimi Hendrix, Janis Joplin, The Who, Santana, and Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young. Hendrix’s incendiary rendition of “The Star-Spangled Banner” and Joplin’s heartfelt set are just two highlights among many that helped cement Woodstock’s status as a cultural milestone.

Woodstock wasn’t just a music festival—it was a revolution in harmony, community, and artistic expression that encapsulated the spirit of the 1960s counterculture. This documentary not only revisits the magic of the music but also delves into the cultural significance of a generation that dared to dream of peace and unity. Decades later, Woodstock remains a beacon of inspiration, reminding us of the power of music to transcend boundaries and bring people together.

FOR BIG FUN, LISTEN TO "THE ROCKABILLY ROADHOUSE WITH BIG DAVE"

... EVERY SATURDAY MORNING from 9am-11am (pacific time) for TWO BIG HOURS of amped-up, high-octane roots music....and catch the rebroadcast Saturday nights at 7pm.

Guaranteed to kick start your weekend!

STREAM IT LIVE at KRSH.com

Download the Free KRUSH Mobile App!

or listen to The KRUSH 95.9 in Sonoma County, CA

Tell 40 or 50 of your closest friends!

Check out the web site at rockabillyroadhouse.com

It's time to get down to the Main Gazane with Big Dave!

Big Dave Presents:
The Saturday Night Album Trax

Saturdays 9-10 pm on the KRUSH 95.9 FM

BREAK OUT THE HEADPHONES!
Hosted by Big Dave, the Saturday Night Album Trax features some of the greatest albums ever recorded. Deep cuts, live albums, extended tracks, rarities and themes. Plus get the background and inside stories on these classic albums.

These are the good old days!

STREAM IT LIVE at KRSH.com

TODAY'S EASY BAKE TRIVIA QUESTION

WHO PLAYED LEAD GUITAR ON THE BILL WITHERS HIT, AIN’T NO SUNSHINE?

The answer will appear in the next MusicWire...

The trivia question from the last MusicWire was:

ON WHAT TELEVISION SHOW DID THE ROLLING STONES MAKE THEIR U.S. DEBUT APPEARANCE?

ANSWER: THE LES CRANE SHOW IN 1964

THIS DAY IN MUSIC

You Can Quote Me On That…

"I think it is just terrible and disgusting how everyone has treated Lance Armstrong, especially after what he achieved, winning seven Tour de France races while on drugs. When I was on drugs, I couldn't even find my bike."
- Willie Nelson

“You start out playing rock ‘n’ roll so you can have sex and do drugs. But you end up doing drugs so you can still play rock ‘n’ roll and have sex.” - Mick Jagger

I've been through more cold turkeys than there are freezers." - Keith Richards

"Mick needs to know what he's going to do tomorrow. Me, I'm just happy to wake up and see who's hanging around. Mick's rock, I'm roll." -Keith Richards

"I don't know anything about music, In my line you don't have to." - Elvis Presley

"I opened the door for a lot of people, and they just ran through and left me holding the knob." - Bo Diddley

"The only Maybelline I knew was the name of a cow." - Chuck Berry

"A lot of fellows nowadays have a B.A., M.D., or Ph.D. Unfortunately, they don't have a J.O.B." - Fats Domino

"It's not the size of the ship; it's the size of the waves." - Little Richard

"Hippies? Why, I'm the original." - Jerry Lee Lewis

"The older I get, the harder to get around....gravity's got me down." - Barry Goldberg

“I'm one of those regular weird people.” - Janis Joplin

"There are more love songs than anything else. If songs could make you do something we'd all love one another." - Frank Zappa

"I've always felt that blues, rock 'n' roll and country are just about a beat apart." - Waylon Jennings

"When the power of love overcomes the love of power the world will know peace." - Jimi Hendrix

"Rock is so much fun. That's what it's all about -- filling up the chest cavities and empty kneecaps and elbows." - Jimi Hendrix

"I taught them everything they know, but not everything I know." - James Brown

"David Gross (Punmaster's MusicWire) is the Arianna Huffington of music news!" - Barry "The Fish" Melton

"The older you get, the better you were!" - Leslie West

"It's much too late to do anything about rock & roll now ..." - Jerry Garcia

"Albert King wasn't my brother in blood, but he sure was my brother in Blues" - B.B. King

"More bass." - Jerry Wexler

"I'm as country as a dozen eggs." - Elvin Bishop

"I liked the first sixties better...." - Al Kooper

"I still have all my vinyl. You can’t roll a joint on an iPod.” - Shelby Lynne

"I think I just killed somebody." - Phil Spector

"The problem with history is, the folks who were there ain't talking. And the ones who weren't there, you can't shut 'em up." - Tom Waits

"The music business is a cruel and shallow money trench, a long plastic hallway where thieves and pimps run free, and good men die like dogs. There's also a negative side." - Hunter S. Thompson

"I want my more money & I want my more fame" - Chubby Checker

"When you don't know where you're going, you have to stick together just in case someone gets there." - Ken Kesey

"I smash guitars because I like them." - Pete Townshend

"It's a good thing I had a bag of marijuana instead of a bag of spinach. I'd be dead by now." - Willie Nelson

"Rock journalism is people who can't write interviewing people who can't talk in order to provide articles for people who can't read." - Frank Zappa

"You can learn something, both good or bad, watching any guitar player. You learn what to do or what not to do. Over the years I've learned things from Carlos, Mike Bloomfield, Clapton, George, Garcia, Knopfler and let's not forget Robbie Robertson." - Bob Dylan, 2002

"There 'is' a difference between rock and rock and roll; beware of inferior imitations (avoid contact with any musician who doesn't know how to play Chuck Berry music)." - Cub Koda

"This heah is Rufus Thomas....I'm young and loose and full of juice. I got the goose, so what's the use." - Rufus Thomas

"Mike Love, not war." - Scott Mathews

"I have outlived my dick" - Willie Nelson (2008)

"Anybody with a trade can work as long as they want. A welder, a carpenter, an electrician. They don't necessarily need to retire...Every man should learn a trade. It's different than a job. My music wasn't made to take me from one place to another so I can retire early." - Bob Dylan