Friday, August 19, 2011

Cocaine — JJ Cale (1976)

"Cocaine" was written and recorded by JJ Cale in 1976 for his album, "Troubadour". Eric Clapton's version, recorded a year later for his "Slow Hand" album, was not released as a single but would become one of his best-known songs and a rock radio staple. Clapton has recorded several of Cale's songs - including "After Midnight" twice. They recorded the album "The Road To Escondido" together in 2006.




Eric Clapton (Live in 2007)


Tuesday, August 16, 2011

That's All Right, Mama —
Arthur "Big Boy" Crudup (1946)

"That's All Right" was originally written and recorded by Arthur "Big Boy" Crudup in 1946. It was re-released in 1949 as "That's All Right, Mama" - which was RCA's first R&B record on their new 45 RPM single format.

Elvis Presley's version was recorded on July 5, 1954, and was released two-weeks later as his first single. It sold 20,000 copies - not enough to chart nationally but enough to reach #4 on the local Memphis charts.




Elvis Presley (1954)

Friday, August 12, 2011

Big Bad Bill (Is Sweet William Now) —
Margaret Young (1924)

"Big Bad Bill (Is Sweet William Now)" was written in 1924 by Milton Ager (music) and Jack Yellen (lyrics). Accompanied by Rube Bloom, it became a vocal hit for Margaret Young. The song has a long recording history - but most know Van Halen's version from their 1982 album, "Diver Down." Their version features Jan Van Halen, father of Eddie and Alex, playing the clarinet.





Van Halen (1982)

Monday, August 1, 2011

You Better Run — The Young Rascals (1966)

"You Better Run" was written by Felix Cavaliere and Eddie Brigati and originally recorded by their group The Young Rascals in 1966. It peaked at #20 on the charts. Pat Benatar had a minor hit with it in 1980 when it was one of the singles off her second album, "Crimes Of Passion". It was the second video played on MTV - which went on the air 30-years ago today.





Pat Benetar (1980)