Listening Room Blog » Errol Arne

Mariah covers Foreigner

Errol Arne — Sun, 13 Sep 2009 12:38:02 +0000

OK so it’s really the song that resulted in Foreigner being labeled a “pop” band but for me if anything can make people pay attention to one of my all-time favorite bands, then I am all for it. So what better way than having one of the biggest stars on the planet cover one of their most popular songs. Mariah Carey’s next single release off of her upcoming album -”Memoirs of An Imperfect Angel” is none other than “I Wanna Know What Love Is.” Who knows, maybe this will be the song to catapult this album to the top after the lukewarm reception to her first single-”Obsessed”-forced her record company to push back the release date until later this month, when it was suppose to be released in August. All I know is that I am hoping much success for this single because it may cause some folks to go out and discover the band called Foreigner. I know they are still going strong as they themselves are releasing a new album on the same day-Sept. 29-but with a new singer. To me, Lou Gramm made Foreigner, even though Mick Jones and others originally formed the band. Anyway, please check out the single, which will be shortly released in the U.S.

Jim James pays tribute to George Harrison

Errol Arne — Fri, 14 Aug 2009 14:36:33 +0000

Jim James, the frontman for My Morning Jacket, has released a six song EP dedication to George Harrison. It was recorded shortly after Harrison’s death in November 2001 but finally released last Tuesday. If you are a fan of George, you will love it. The songs are totally stripped down to the core with James vocals clearly being the highlight on the disc. I have recently discovered Mr. James as I finally jumped onto the My Morning Jacket bandwagon with their last release-”Evil Urges.” And while pursing more music by Mr. James I came across their cover of the Elton John classic “Rocket Man” and was blown away. This man has some talent.

Back to the tribute to George, his cover of “My Sweet Lord” will command your attention as you will be enthralled with the sound of this classic song. Same goes for his cover of “Long, Long, Long.” I just keep hitting the rewind button on this tune and fly away.

Here is a taste of the EP below as James does his best for the classic “Behind That Locked Door” off of George’s masterpiece “All Things Must Pass.” If you want to “mellow” out look no further than this six song EP. (By the way, his name is “Yim Yames” for this EP).

Another summer single; this one by Ingrid Michaelson

Errol Arne — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 11:57:35 +0000

As I mentioned yesterday, discovering music- new or old- is what it is all about. This morning while on I-Tunes (every Tuesday there is new music released) I came across a wonderful single by Ingrid Michaelson called “Maybe” which is the first single release off of her upcoming album “Everybody” which hits stores on Aug. 25. The video below is a “stripped” down version of the song but it is still great. The single is available on I-Tunes starting today. Take a listen. (The first minute and a half is part of an interview she did with a radio station).

You Need Your “Thermals” This Summer

Errol Arne — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 13:40:46 +0000

As I was watching the “MTV University” channel over this past weekend, I came across a catchy tune that caught my eyes and ears. The song is called “Now We Can See” by a band called The Thermals. The band, a trio from Portland Oregon, have been around since 2002. (Seems to be these “trio’s” have been popping up lately- see “The Band of Skulls”-another solid trio).

Anyway back to the song, the more you listen to it, the more you will like it and you may want to tell your friends to take a listen. So that is what I am doing, my friends- take a listen and hear for yourself. My motto is “discovering music-whether old or new- is what it is all about.” Hope your summer is going well!!

The Best New Song Out There Right Now by Charice Pempengco

Errol Arne — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 13:05:08 +0000

Are you looking for a song to play at your son or daughter’s graduation party? Or how about a song for when a bride dances with her dad at a wedding? Or for the groom when he dances with his mom? (Or any other special occasion). Well look no further than the best song out there right now and in my opinion, a song for the ages. This is a song for the whole family to enjoy and it should leave you with your jaw dropped in amazement on how good a voice this young sensation has. The song is “Note to God” by Charice. (I will leave it at just Charice because she will become so huge that people will know her by her first name only).

I came across this song on the Oprah Winfrey show about a month ago and I immediately went to I-Tunes for download. Since then I haven’t been able to stop listening to this unbelievable song; the arrangement and production matches her majestic voice. This is the best pop song written in the last 10 years, take a listen for yourself.

Steely Dan back at the Beacon Theater

Errol Arne — Thu, 28 May 2009 17:27:11 +0000

Steely Dan will be back at the Beacon Theater this summer for four nights and they are Tuesday July 28, Wednesday July 29, Friday July 31 and Saturday August 1. Steely Dan will play their hits but also perform some of their most popular albums in their entirety. For instance, if you are a fan of “Aja” you will want to go to the show on July 28. If “Gaucho” is your favorite, then you’ll want to purchase tickets for July 29. Or if “The Royal Scam” is your cup of tea, you’ll need tickets for July 31.

Now Aug. 1 is totally cool as people who purchase tickets for this show will get to vote for their favorite Steely Dan songs via the internet and they will perform the songs that received the most votes. This night is named “Taking it to the Seats.”

If you are an American Express cardholder you will have the first chance to buy “pre-sale” tickets beginning this Saturday morning at 10:00 a.m. until next Friday June 5 at 10:00 p.m. “General” public on sale is Saturday June 6 starting at 10:00 a.m. Ticket prices range from $74 – $240.

Ben Harper and Relentless7-”White Lies for Dark Times”

Errol Arne — Fri, 08 May 2009 12:20:50 +0000

The first thing I have to say is that this album is an instant classic already- you know how ESPN will show a game the very next day on their “ESPN Classic” channel because it’s that good? (See the 2009 Bulls vs. Celtics first round playoff series). Ben Harper with his new band, Relentless7, have made one of the best album’s so far in 2009. This is what rock and roll is all about- it’s raw, soulful and smooth filled with so much energy and passion that you will feel like you are at one of his live shows while you listen in the comfort of your home or car. Beginning with “Number with No Name” until the beautiful ending ballad “Faithfully Remain” you will not be disappointed. The opening track surronds you like a fog, lifts you off the ground and doesn’t let you come down until it’s over. There are blazing hot songs such as “Why Must You Always Dress In Black,” Keep It Together (So I Can Fall Apart)” and the single “Shimmer & Shine” (listen below) that will get you out of your seat- you will not be able to resist. My favorite track “Lay There & Hate Me” has this “R&B, funkadellic disco” groove which is so addicting and it will soon become your favorite as well.
Ben and his mates also play some beautiful ballads which include the incredible “Skin Thin”, the poignant “The Word Suicide” (will remind you of Steve Winwood in his days with Traffic) and the aforementioned “Faithfully Remain” which spotlights Ben’s vocals.

“White Lies for Dark Times” has all that you’re looking for-if you want to rock out-it’s here. If you want to jam with the blues-it’s here. And if you just want to mellow out, that is also here. In my opinion, this will be one of the best recordings in 2009. Run out and buy it now!!!

Do You Know Your “ABC’s?”

Errol Arne — Thu, 23 Apr 2009 19:12:05 +0000

I know this song was released late last year but it seems to be picking up steam as I see the video all the time on MTV. (I know what you’re asking-you have to catch videos in the mornings on MTV or MTV2). K’naan a rapper from Somalia, in my opinion, will be the next hottest act and the track “ABC’s” which features Chubb Rock is a fun, danceable club song that will have everyone dancing in the aisles. This song moves and can also serve as a great exercise song- for a boot camp class or running on a treadmill. His latest album, “Troubador” was released in February and he also receives help from Adam Levine, Mos Def, Kirk Hammett and Damian Marley. I think this could be the hottest album out right now. The song “Waving Flag” is fantastic and my prediction is that it will be the song of the summer. Check it out:

“Garage” Rock and Roll Still Alive with Bright Future

Errol Arne — Mon, 20 Apr 2009 15:21:26 +0000

How long has it been since you’ve been to a show where you can hear the crashing of cymbals? Or witness band members setting up the stage for themselves with the help of their friends? Or how about having such good seats (instead of holding a pair of binoculars like you were on a stakeout, so far from the action) or standing so close to the stage you can smell the energy in the air? I myself experienced this energy and passion this past Saturday night in a basement of a Lutheran Church located in Bronxville, NY. Yes the stage was small, it was hot and there were some technical difficulties at times (I did say basement, right?) But you know what? This is what rock& roll is all about. This is where rock & roll started and has a “re-birth” all over again with every generation. The epicenter is the “garage” and everyone needs to go back “home” every once in a while to remember the good times as well as witness the up and coming talents who are right in your own “backyard.” I can honestly say that I always look for signs that the “younger generation” will keep the torch going and after the show Saturday night, the rock & roll train just picked up some new passengers and its full steam ahead.

By the time I arrived Tyler Pendleton and his band were setting up their stage for a local event that was put together by Kuba Kierlanczyk, a junior at Bronxville High School, and featured the following acts: States Away, Temporary Heroes, Beyond Arms Reach and the aforementioned Tyler Pendleton. It was stuffy in the basement as the younger crowd was milling around in anticipation for the next band to hit the stage. As Tyler and his band mates began playing, you could immediately feel the energy from him which I believe energized the crowd as well as his band. I always lean on baseball for analogies and if you play with a Derek Jeter – you are going to perform better because you know he is giving it all, so you need to be on your game. When they performed “Blue Skies” from Tyler’s “Closure Volume” album, I was really impressed on how tight the whole band was from start to beginning. The guitar work from Chance Jones and Asher Zeitschik sort of remind you of bands like Fall Out Boy or All American Rejects with a twist of Rancid. The lead work from Asher was very striking. The “meat and potatoes” of every band- the bass and drums were handled amiably by Doug Gettenberg and Mark Buono. (Buono established the “Massive Sound” Studio where “Closure” was recorded). By the time they played “Unbelievable” I had this smile on my face as I knew then that this thing that we call rock and roll was still alive and thriving in the “underground.” The passion from Tyler and his band mates were bleeding through the speakers as they ripped through all of their songs with controlled precision. I, along with everyone else who attended, was at the “core” of where rock and roll music begins: the “feedback,” the smashing of the cymbals, the raw sounds of the bass, the guitars and drums and of course the endless energy- this is what rock and roll is all about.

The next time you are looking for something to do on a weekend, do yourself a favor- search for the local talent and reacquaint yourself with the meaning of rock & roll. Like me, you will be pleasantly surprised that- using Huey’s famous line- “the heart of rock and roll is still beating.”

Tyler Pendleton’s CD “Closure Volume” can be accessed here

Chickenfoot making New York Debut

Errol Arne — Thu, 16 Apr 2009 20:55:40 +0000

Chickenfoot, the new “super” rock group, made up of Sammy Hagar, Michael Anthony, Chad Smith and the electrifying Mr. Joe Satriani will be performing at the New York Fillmore at Irving Plaza on Thursday May 28. Tickets for this show will go on sale tomorrow morning at 10:00 a.m. through Live Nation and the price per ticket is $52.50. Their debut album is set to drop on June 9.

Talk about a talented band- Sammy has always been a favorite of mine, starting with his Montrose days, solo efforts and of course Van Halen. Michael has found his way back after Wolfgang became the bassist for Van Halen. Chad is a phenomenal drummer for the Chili Peppers. And last but not least-Joe Satriani. I’m not sure if Jorge has profiled Joe in his series “Guitarists You Should Know” but if he has not- Satriani is definitely an awesome guitarist who has been around for a long time. They sound great. Check them out:

Band of Skulls Creating a Buzz

Errol Arne — Sun, 12 Apr 2009 12:39:10 +0000

Have you heard this band yet? The trio from Southampton U.K. have released their debut album “Baby Darling Doll Face Honey” and I have been swept up in all the buzz about the talent that this threesome has to offer. For just $5.99 (courtsey of I-Tunes) you can download this solid debut effort which contains 11 songs. The band contains a female bass singer, Emma Richardson who shares the vocal leads with Russell Mardsen, the guiatrist while Mr. Matt Hayward applies his nice drumming skills throughout the album.

When I listen I hear glimpses of U2, the White Stripes and the Pretenders. Some have said Emma reminds one of Blondie but I would say that she leans more towards Chrissy Hynde. In my opinion every track is good but the ones that stand out are “Bomb,” “Blood,” “Light of the Morning” with “Fires” and “Cold Fame” being my favorite tunes. The track “I Know What I Am” is a free song on I-Tunes right now and appears to be the song that the band has picked for attracting your attention. So check out the song below, go to I-Tunes or go where you need to go to pick up this album.

The Best U2 Album Ever

Errol Arne — Sat, 21 Mar 2009 18:44:08 +0000

Have you purchased U2’s new album “No Line on the Horizon Yet?” If not, I am here to tell you that you will not be disappointed in this flat out masterpiece. At first I was hesitant, even after Rolling Stone magazine rated it 5 stars, which denotes an “instant classic.” However, after a few turns through the whole disc, I am completely hooked and can’t stop listening to it. My prediction on this summer’s hottest song will be “I’ll Go Crazy If I Don’t Go Crazy Tonight”- listen below to their performance on Good Morning America where they played at Fordham University.

I’m telling you right now folks there is not a track on the album that you will pass over and it is really hard to pick a favorite. Die-hard fans will flock to “Magnificent” “and “Stand Up Comedy.”
The track “Fez: Being Born” is the way U2 is suppose to sound in 2009, totally relevant and fresh. “Moment of Surrender” is an epic classic that any band would wish they wrote. Listen to its beauty and you will not want the song to end. I can’t get enough of this song. My personal favorite track on the album is “White as Snow” and in my opinion is pure perfection. “Get on Your Boots”, the first single released, has really grown on me and contrary to the negative reaction to the song, if you really give it a chance- it will not disappoint.

“No Line on the Horizon” has pulled me back to the U2 bandwagon, I was gone for a real long time but I think this is the best album they have ever made. Yes that’s right better than “Joshua Tree” and “Achtung Baby.” So do yourself a favor: run out and get this CD right now!!

Carrie Underwood Covers Motley Crue

Errol Arne — Wed, 11 Mar 2009 10:29:50 +0000

Beginning tonight when two of the final 13 contestants are voted off from the eighth season of “American Idol” they will depart to the sound of Carrie Underwood singing Motley Crue’s “Home Sweet Home.” This song will be used for the rest of the season as the prospective Idol’s are voted off.
You can purchase the song off of I-Tunes and if you download it before March 16, Carrie along with 19 Recordings and Sony Music Nashville will donate part of the proceeds to The Humane Society of the United States. I have already purchased it and have to say that I am a fan of her take on the Crue classic. Take a listen for yourself.

Wham Gets a Jolt

Errol Arne — Sat, 07 Mar 2009 15:32:54 +0000

Have you heard the latest version of “Careless Whisper?” Yes you know the song made famous by Wham featuring George Michael and Andrew Ridgeley. Well there is a brand new version that has an edge to it. Seether has re-recorded it and I have to say I really like it. Take a listen for yourself and see what you think:

Remembering George Harrison

Errol Arne — Wed, 25 Feb 2009 11:39:01 +0000

Today would have marked George Harrison’s 66th birthday. Sadly, he passed away at the young age of 58 back in Nov. 2001. It’s hard to believe that it has been a little more than 7 years already.

George has always been and will always remain my favorite Beatle. For some reason his music resonates with me more so than John, Paul or Ringo. Think about his career? He was part of the most popular band ever in the history of music, his often “under-valued” solo career and his stint with The Traveling Wilbury’s, really is inspiring. In my opinion, he wrote one of the best, if not the best, song that the Beatles ever recorded- “Something.” Every time I hear it, I just stop whatever I am doing and focus on the work of art.

One of my other personal favorites is “I’d Have You Anytime” from his masterpiece- “All Things Must Pass.”

I could go on and on about the man and his accomplishments but what I really wanted to do was draw your attention to him today. Happy Birthday George and rest in peace.

A Nice Sight on the Last Episode of Conan

Errol Arne — Tue, 24 Feb 2009 11:05:25 +0000

The White Stripes were the last musical act for Conan O’Brien’s farewell show at the 12:30 a.m. time slot this past Friday Feb. 20, 2009. It was a special night all around, as this was their first public appearance since 2007 when it was discovered that Meg White was suffering from acute anxiety. I am very excited that they are back together and look forward to them making more music together. If you have not seen them perform live, hopefully you will get to see them the next time they hit the Tri-state area. Below is a clip of them performing “We’re Going to Be Friends” off of their 2001 album “White Blood Cells.”

Shinedown Shines Bright

Errol Arne — Sat, 21 Feb 2009 20:21:11 +0000

Have you ever wanted to make someone watch your favorite TV show, or maybe your preferred movie? Or how about making someone attend your favorite restaurant? The reason you do it is because you love whatever you are advertising and you want people to pay attention to it. However, sometimes for whatever reason, people don’t seem to care what you have to say. Or you feel like you are on an island by yourself screaming and no one hears you.
Well this has been my experience in trying to get folks to recognize the extreme talent of the band Shinedown. So to get your attention, I will cheat a little and demonstrate to you their talent by showing you a video of them covering the classic U2 song “One.”

(Folks, please scroll to the “10th” video-”One” and click play as the embedding has been disabled by the user)

Now that I have your attention, I implore you to take a chance on this band. Clearly this is an acoustic song and all their songs are not like this. They have three studio albums- “Leave A Whisper,” “Us and Them” and “Sound of Madness.” The “Sound” is their latest CD and in my opinion is flawless. They are touring again and will hit the Tri-State area this spring. Specifically at the New York Fillmore at Irving Plaza on Tuesday March 31st. Tickets are on sale now through Live Nation.

Live Nation just as bad as Ticketmaster

Errol Arne — Sun, 08 Feb 2009 15:52:24 +0000

If you’re like me, you long for the days of waiting on long lines for tickets to see your favorite artist. Remember when “first come, first serve” were the days? Remember “Ticket-tron?” Then in the mid to late 1980’s, it all started to end with Ticket Master. Being first in line meant nothing as Ticketmaster implemented the “lottery” system. So if I woke up at 3:00 a.m (or stood in line from the night before) to score tickets to my favorite show, it didn’t mean I would be first. They decided to have each member in line to pick numbers from a hat-because it wasn’t fair to the person who showed up late? What?? One time I clearly remember being first on the line; then having to pick a lottery number and ended up one of the last to purchase tickets. Walking up to a ticket window, you’d pay pretty close to “face” price. But as the internet age evolved there was no need to stand “on line.” As Ticketmaster slowly swallowed up the market and became a monopoly, they stared to gauge our eyes out with “handling” fees and other expenses.
And now Ticketmaster™ has Ticketnow, a subsidiary skilled in taking the gauging a bit further as Bruce Springsteen fans learned last week. You would think that Live Nation has the opening it needs to swoop in and put a dent (or nail) into Ticketmaster. One would think that they would charge a lesser fee and steal away the business from TM. But no… My first experience ever with Live Nation occurred yesterday as I purchased tickets for an event. This show was priced at $25. Do you know the price after Live Nation applied their fees? $35. The result was a 40% markup. I was stunned and all my excitement for someone standing up to Ticketmaster has been destroyed. It’s back to the same old situation. The consumer gets ripped off and can’t do a thing about it.

Van Morrison at The Beacon

Errol Arne — Fri, 06 Feb 2009 02:07:02 +0000

American Express cardholders will have first access at tickets for Van Morrison at The Beacon Theater on Wed. & Thurs. Mar. 3 and 4. The pre-sale starts Saturday morning (Feb. 7) at 9:00 a.m and runs until Thursday evening (Feb. 12) at 10:00 p.m. General public on sale is Friday Feb. 13 at 9:00 a.m. Ticket prices range from $90 – $350.

Remembering “The Day The Music Died”

Errol Arne — Wed, 04 Feb 2009 00:54:42 +0000

I could not let the day end without acknowledging one of the saddest days in music history. Back on this day in 1959, a small plane carrying the legendary Buddy Holly, Richie Valens and J.P. “The Big Bopper” Richardson crashed and killed all on board.

The body of work that Buddy put out in such a short time period is remarkable. Mr. Valens was just getting started and had some huge hits of his own. And who doesn’t like “Chantilly Lace” by the Big Bopper?

Don McLean, who wrote “American Pie,” was a 13-year-old newspaper delivery boy who cut loose the twine that was holding his newspapers, The Daily Mirror, together and saw the front page headline. He was floored just like everyone else at that time. (On another note, that is the same way I found out that John Lennon had been killed, I was a paper boy back in 1980 and I too turned over to the front page and remember the shock that came over me.)

Have you ever heard of the game that people associate with the actor Kevin Bacon? “The Six degrees of Kevin Bacon.” Well the same could be said of Buddy Holly. His influence was written all over Bob Dylan and The Beatles. With these two artists, how can anyone associated with music not come back to Buddy Holly? His inspiration still lives on with today’s bands such as The Strokes and The Black Keys.

So do yourself a favor, listen to “American Pie” by McLean again, shed a tear, then go and discover the music of Buddy Holly, Richie Valens and The Big Bopper. Rest in peace.

Sunday Morning’s Start with a KISS

Errol Arne — Sun, 25 Jan 2009 17:01:57 +0000

I don’t know about you but I was brought up in a house where every Sunday morning my Mom & Dad would play their favorite artists albums for at least 2 hours. Our Sunday morning breakfasts included eggs with Elvis or Patsy Cline. Some weekends it would be Fats Domino or Roy Orbison but overall we were fed a heavy dose of Elvis and Patsy. As I became a teenager, my love for the Beatles had grown immensely and there use to be a radio station that did “Breakfast with the Beatles” (who knows it may still be going on). Now as I try to pass on the same tradition to my kids, it sometimes gets harder because they can easily run to their room and throw on their I-PODs if they don’t want to hear it. (I didn’t have that option). Recently I have “gone back in time” to one of my first “love’s” in rock music and they are KISS.
Being ridiculed as a teenager for liking KISS, I have re-discovered my affection for this band. Laugh if you will but I still say that they made some solid tunes. (Yes I too jumped off the band wagon back in the day when they recorded “I Was Made For Loving You” but that was because of my “youth.” I actually like that song today). Now for the past few months I have been blasting KISS around the house and I have now hooked my youngest son. He is now discovering more and more of their tunes through my library.
This morning’s breakfast focused on the 1976 album “Rock and Roll Over” album. Do you know the feeling you get when you haven’t listened to something in a long time and then when you put it on, it feels like the first time all over again? Wow!! How good is this album? This is when they were at the height of their career in my opinion. “Love ‘Em and Leave ‘Em” sounds as fresh today as it did back in ‘76. How about “Baby Driver” with Mr. Criss on vocals? Or the rockin’ “Mr. Speed” with the classic vocal style from Paul? One of the “staples” of their live shows, “back in the day,” was “Makin’ Love” which has the blistering solo from Ace. I think this album was Frehley’s best with the band. So this morning’s pancakes didn’t need syrup as the sweetness from this album has kicked off my day right. Have a great day!!

Top 10 “Train” Songs

Errol Arne — Fri, 23 Jan 2009 04:21:50 +0000

Recently I have been on a “top ten” kick and someone asked me for my top ten “train” songs of all time. “Drops of Jupiter” by Train is a phenomenal song but I went for songs (as opposed to the band name) with either the word “train” in it or if the song was “train” related. Well anyway here is my top 10 “train” songs:
10. Waiting for a Train – Jimmie Rodgers- The man “who started it all.” He was a brakeman on a train at the age of 14. Top that!!
9. Train of Consequences - Megadeth- This is the metal train to the land of head-banging. Enjoy the ride.
8. Love in Vain – Rolling Stones- Slowing it down a whole bit, this bluesy twist will have you waiting for the train to come into the station.
7. Rock N Roll Train – AC/DC- a newcomer but already a classic. ‘Nuff said.
6. Loco-Motion – Grand Funk Railroad- c’mon what does a train ride on? Why a “Railroad” of course and “loco” is part of locomotive.
5. Crazy Train- Ozzy- Unforgettable “All Aboard..ha, ha, ha, ha, ay, ay, ay” This song has now turned into an anthem at most sporting events. Phenomenal.
4. Train Kept a Rollin’ – Aerosmith- their classic cover appears on “Get Your Wings” an under-rated album in my opinion.
3. Peace Train – Cat Stevens- Boy do we ever need to listen to the words of this song. This is a beautiful song that hooks you in and my wish is for these words to come true.
2. Midnight Train to Georgia- Gladys Knight & The Pips- How cool is the groove in this song? Do they make songs like this anymore? I think not!!
1. Love Train – The O’Jays- It kills me that this song is now associated with a beer commercial but one can not deny the greatness. This is another song where we all need to listen and act on the lyrics.

The Legend of Billy Preston

Errol Arne — Wed, 14 Jan 2009 01:02:36 +0000

I had my I-POD on “shuffle” and Billy Preston’s “Will It Go Round in Circles” came on and I was blown away on how fresh it still sounds, no matter how many times you hear it. This man had so much talent and his career spanned five decades. Did you know that when he was 16 he played on Sam Cooke’s 1963 classic album “Night Beat?” Take a listen to Sam’s “Little Red Rooster” and hear the coolness of Billy on the organ. When was the last time you heard “Outa-Space?”(Buy the video on I-Tunes right now and you’ll be back in the ‘70’s in no time). Go back and feel this man’s skills, it really leaves you achin’ for more. So then you head for “Space Race” and it really does just put a smile on your face.

His catalog is endless, if you love R&B- he has done it. If gospel is your love- check out his “Music from My Heart” album. He’s done rock and roll- he is one of only two artists to perform with The Beatles (he’s known as the “5th” Beatle) and The Rolling Stones. One of my favorites is ” I Wrote a Simple Song” because of his passion. For me, passion is the key ingredient for the artists that I love.

Did you know that he wrote the song “You Are So Beautiful” which was made popular by Joe Cocker? His version is fantastic as well. How about “Nothing from Nothing?” I can listen to this song over and over again- it still sounds as good as it did back in the day.

He was very good friends with all of the Beatles and if you want to see Billy Preston live with Clapton and others- check out the “Concert for George” DVD. One of the main reasons that this is my all time favorite music DVD is because of Billy Preston- he is flat out phenomenal.

I could go on and on about the man and his music. Sadly he left us way too early at the young age of 59 back on June 6, 2006. Billy Preston is a legend that can never be forgotten. Please pass down his legacy to all your young children, siblings or friends and tell them to keep passing it on down to the next generation.

Up and coming artist

Errol Arne — Sat, 10 Jan 2009 00:29:13 +0000

Ladies and Gentlemen,

Typically I write about music but there is someone in my family who creates music. I am convinced that he is going to make it big. I can remember him playing guitar for our family during each holiday season and being amazed on how much he progressed each year. His name is Devin Arne and you can log onto his website www.devinarne.com and listen for yourself. Click onto the link under the “Soundcloud” heading and listen to “Why Are You Leaving?” This should be on the public radio stations or satellite radio stations now. He also “produces”- check out his remix of “I Can See.” Start your new year off with something new and fresh. Happy New Year Everyone and enjoy. Remember discovering music, new or old, is what it’s all about.

Top 10 Holiday Songs

Errol Arne — Fri, 19 Dec 2008 13:05:53 +0000

Since there is snow in the forecast today and the holiday season is right around the corner, I thought it would be a good time to post my list of favorite holiday tunes. Happy Holidays everyone!!

10. Christmas Is - Run DMC – How great is this song? I love it. I wish I knew how to dance.

9. I’ll Be Home for Christmas - The Beach Boys – Most people usually pick “Little Saint Nick” but for me this is their best holiday song.

8. White Christmas - The Drifters – How cool is this version? I am immediately drawn to Macaulay Culklin lip syncing this great song in “Home Alone.”

7. Silver Bells - Burl Ives – What a voice this man had!! His version of Silver Bells knocks me right of my chair.

6. If Everyday was Like Christmas - Elvis Presley – Talk about pure perfection, this song has it all. No one else can do this like the King himself. This is one of the most beautiful songs ever recorded.

5. Let It Snow! – Dean Martin – Was there anyone cooler than Dino? I think not and this song is appropriate for today’s weather forecast.

4. Happy Christmas - John Lennon, Yoko Ono, Plastic Ono band with the Harlem Community Choir- This is the one song that I have to hear every holiday season to get me in the spirit. There have been other versions but none like John can do.

3. Blue Christmas - Ann and Nancy Wilson – Ann’s voice gives me the chills with her take on this timeless classic. I can’t get enough of her version.

2. Sleigh Ride - The Ronettes – “Ring-a-ling-ling-ding-dong-ding” ... ‘Nuff said.

1. Pretty Paper - Roy Orbison – Ask my wife and children how many times they have heard me play this song over the past 14 years (longer for my wife). To me, this is the most beautiful holiday song ever recorded. This song puts me in a trance.

Top 10 Songs of 2008

Errol Arne — Wed, 17 Dec 2008 14:02:16 +0000

Well here it is, another year coming to an end and we all wonder where the time has gone. Weren’t we all just worried about “Y2K” issues? Sorry to digress, back to the topic-the top ten songs of 2008. Now I have seen some other lists and I will tell you right now, my list is totally different from what you might expect. Some songs you may know, some you may not and some will have you scratching your head, but here goes:

10. There’s Gold in Them Hills - The Black Crowes – This in my opinion is the best song the Black Crowes have ever recorded.

9. Addicted – Ace Young – This song should have been the summer song for 2008. It will hook you in and not let go.

8. If You Only Knew - Shinedown – Even though this has not hit the radio (yet) this is my favorite song from the best album of 2008- The Sound of Madness.

7. Rock N Roll Train - AC/DC – The boys from Australia are back with this infectious groove that will have you “air-guitaring” in no time.

6. 4 Minutes - Madonna – I love this song! With help from Justin Timberlake and Timbaland, this song is pure fun. Although it’s not enough time to save the world, it is enough time to dance around your room.

5. Troublemaker – Weezer – It appears the song “Pork & Beans” is on many other lists but not for me. This song is a blast and the video is even better.

4. Pocketful of Sunshine - Natasha Bedingfield – This song is contagious and puts me back into the summertime. It reminds me of my oldest son’s class, who sang this song so many times on the way up to Boston as part of a school trip.

3. All Summer Long - Kid Rock – Even though this song was technically released in 2007, it became larger than life in 2008. Mr. Rock was everywhere with this song and even “parents” like this song, although they could do without the references to “smoking funny things” and “drinking whiskey.”

2. I’m Yours - Jason Mraz – My wife usually does not like the new music out there today but this happens to be her favorite song right now and I couldn’t agree more. This is also the best video of the year as well.

1. If You’re Out There - John Legend – Once in a while a song comes along that knocks you off your feet and I knew from the first time that I heard it, that it was something very special. It gets my undivided attention as I listen to his words and his passion.