GMVW # 11: "Mulla Mulla Mulla!"

Gem Music Video of the Week #11: Mulla Mulla Mulla!

Song: It’s Money That Matters by Randy Newman

(Songwriter: Randy Newman)

March 20, 2008

At the core of every great song is some angle on truth.  I feel that way about all the 'Gems' I've rolled out thus far. 

.... and then there's the songs of Randy Newman.

Many Randy Newman songs bring an entirely different twist to the truth table.  Often, to get a point across, Newman will sing from the narrative of the...well, let's just say the alternate point of view.  There's 'Short People' (the racist); 'Sail Away' (the 18th century slave trader); 'Political Science' (the extremist); 'Cuyahoga River' (the industrial polluter) and many others.

Gem Music Video of the Week 'It's Money That Matters', from the phenomenal 1988 album 'Land of Dreams', is one of these songs.  I never knew this music video existed until recently and its a great video because it reflects the songs lyrics perfectly (as in the rare event when a movie captures the essence of a books story line).  There's also a lot of subtleties I did not pick up on until a few replays (like some of those old MAD Magazines you had to leaf thru several times to pick up on all the graphic detail).  That's Mark Knopfler doing the guitar bits.  The VH1 site that the video link sends you too occasionally previews it's songs with a commercial (which actually fits in nicely with the song title), so bear with the possibility of a 20 second lead in.  Most of the extras in the video are Bear Stearns employees (sorry, bad joke).

To show that there is also some straight-truth coming out of the music of Randy Newman, I've including another Gem Light video (with a third less calories than your regular gem) from the same 'Land of Dreams' album.

Below the links to the videos are the lyrics to 'It's Money That Matters' for your sing-along/clap along pleasure....

Have a Happy Easter

Pete

Gem Music Video: It’s Money That Matters (This VH1 video link has been temporarily lost *Dec 09*)

http://www.dailymotion.com/video/x29cln_randy-newman-it-s-money-that-matter_creation

Gem Light:  Falling in Love

http://www.vh1.com/video/play.jhtml?artist=13260&vid=33611

Lyrics: It's Money that Matters:

Of all of the people that I used to know

Most never adjusted to the great big world

I see them lurking in book stores

Working for the Public Radio

Carrying their babies around in a sack on their back

Moving careful and slow

(Chorus)

It's money that matters

Hear what I say

It's money that matters

In the USA

All of these people are much brighter than I

In any fair system they would flourish and thrive

But they barely survive

They eke out a living and they barely survive

When I was a young boy, maybe thirteen

I took a hard look around me and asked what does it mean?

So I talked to my father, and he didn't know

And I talked to my friend and he didn't know

And I talked to my brother and he didn't know

And I talked to everybody that I knew

(Chorus)

It's money that matters

Now you know that it's true

It's money that matters

Whatever you do

Then I talked to a man lived up on the county line

I was washing his car with a friend of mine

He was a little fat guy in a red jumpsuit

I said "You look kind of funny"

He said "I know that I do"

"But I got a great big house on the hill here

And a great big blonde wife inside it

And a great big pool in my backyard

and another great big pool beside it

Sonny it's money that matters, hear what I say

It's money that matters in the USA

It's money that matters

Now you know that it's true

It's money that matters whatever you do"

 

-----------------------------------------

About the video: Both Gem and Gem Light are made for MTV videos

GMVW # 10: "Irish Eyes"

Gem Music Video of the Week #10: Irish Eyes

Song: Zombie by The Cranberries

(Songwriter: Dolores O’Riordan)

March 13, 2008

I'd like to believe I'm not one for name dropping, but when the date is March 17 (or close to it) and your friends name is Pat Shea (or Patty O'Shea as I like to say for a day) it's hard to resist.  Now the date was St Patrick's Day, 1986 or 87 and for the first time in 3 years, I was not going to make the trek up to Ottawa Canada for a roaring good time.  In fact, it was the first time ever that I was facing the fact that work was unavoidable for the entire, normally festive day.  It was a hard pill to swallow, and as I dragged myself out the door around 7:30 am that morning, I stopped, turned around, and placed a call to Pat and the rest of the crew at their home on Gladstone Street in Ottawa to wish them a good day and a good time. 

Patty answered the phone and sounded more chipper than I would have expected that early.  I asked him how the day was going, not expecting much more than a discussion of events to come.  Pat's response: "Dave just blew his lunch" (or liquid breakfast as I was later informed).  Our conversation carried on a bit longer, but I cut things short; not only because I had to go, but because Pat’s reply made me feel worse.  The early morning image of Dave worshipping the porcelain bowl would not leave my mind for the entire day.

Now this is not necessarily about Dave (a normally sedate guy) or blowing lunch, or Pat for that matter (aside from the name dropping).  It's about the magic of St Patrick’s Day, a day where, if approached correctly, can play out in slow motion.  By starting the day the way they did, Pat and crew were doing the impossible: Adding time to an endless day.  Pat could have told me it was a beautiful Ottawa day (as St Pat's Day always is).  He could have told me the Pogues were playing that afternoon at Molly Maguires and they had tickets.  He could have told me that Pierre and Margaret Trudeau accepted the invitation to their evening house party on Gladstone Street.  None of it would have had the same effect on me than what he said.  The Leprechaun was already with them that day, and I was missing it. 

This weeks Gem Music Video of the Week had to be a band from Ireland, and so I choose one of my favorites, the Cranberries.  The song 'Zombie' is a bit heavy musically and lyrically (about the then fighting in Northern Ireland).  Although not the SNL version (likely my favorite music moment ever on the show), this Hard Rock Cafe version is also very good.  For those looking for a softer, gentler Cranberries touch, I'm including a "Gem Light" (with a third less calories than your regular Gem)...the song 'Dreams'. 

I believe I've had at least one great St Patrick's Day's with everyone on this list (Ruth, we have to work on this).  As always, there's still plenty to celebrate (the Celtics, Peace in Ireland, the Blarney Stone), so enjoy the day.   Maybe even call home and tell your spouse you are enjoying the moment in a local pub and will stick around for an extra pint of Guinness and good Irish music.  Better yet, invite them to join you.  Either way, you can blame me.  Just don't make the mistake of calling a party you can't make.  You may get a touch of regret after realizing you are missing out on some magic.

Happy St. Patrick's Day!

Pete

Gem Music Video: ‘Zombie’ (at the Hard Rock Café)

http://www.dailymotion.com/video/xi84i_the-cranberries-zombie-live-hard-ro

SNL version (just as good)

http://www.myvideo.de/watch/4666416/The_Cranberries_Zombie_live

------------------------------------------------

About the video: Live at the “VH1 Hard Rock Café” (some time not long after the song’s release).  The Gem Light is a made for MTV video

-------

Best Feedback: Dave

Therein lies some passion...

Thanks, Dave

------

Also: Steve

Wow, Pete. You hit it right on the head.

St. Patty's Day - Ottawa in the spring - The Gladstoners Memories that will last a lifetime.

Cheers to you this St. Patricks Day!

I will be in Penticton, BC at a trade show. I will lift my glass that evening and give a toast to the laughter, song and stupid antics of the Gladstoner Gang!

Steve

------

And: Pat Shea

Thanks Pete

For a great letter and invitation.  Sure, add me to the list. I'm always open to checking out some good music and especially so is Sharon, whom I hope you will get to meet this summer.

My tastes in music have changed a lot since the days of which you spoke in your story. I've gone more to the jazz(lounge) and alternative route. Sharon and I just saw Pink Martini at the NAC on Friday night. It was incredible. Check them out at www.pinkmartini.com . And my favourite for some years now has been Tom Waits. I could listen to him all day long (and do so often.)

We are going to try to be in Maine around the second week of August. It would be great to see you then.

Happy St. Patrick's Day. May your blessings outnumber the shamrocks that grow.

Pat

GMVW # 9: "A Dylan Throw-Away"

Gem Music Video of the Week #9:  A Dylan Throw-Away

Song:  Seven Days by Bob Dylan

(Songwriter: Bob Dylan)

Covered Here By:  Ronnie Wood

March 6, 2008

There was a stretch of shows I went to see in the late 80's/ early 90's where 8 of 10 musicians covered a Bob Dylan song.  The shows ranged from small night clubs to arenas.  The artists were just as diverse.  I was already well entrenched in Dylan's music, but this stretch had me amazed at how far reaching his influence was.  When Atlantic Records hosted a tribute night to Dylan back in 1992 in Madison Square Garden, much of this diversity came together for a night.  I can't think of too many good tribute shows over the years, but this one was an exception. 

One of the great things about this event was that the 2nd tier performers stole the show. The heavy hitters (Harrison, Clapton, N. Young) were good, but they were not what made the night.  That recognition belonged to Richie Havens (can anyone find this clip on line?), Johnny Winter, Johnny Cash, Kris Kristofferson, Lou Reed, the Clancy Brothers, and Ronnie Wood, who's 'Seven Days' performance is featured in this weeks Gem Music Video of the Week.

The sound is not as good as I would hope (as opposed to the official video) but I believe it gets the point across.  Ronnie Wood and the rest of the band (mostly members of Booker T and the MG's) are jamming and appear to be loving every second.  Wood, along with most other musicians that night, seemed to hand pick the perfect Dylan song for his given style and talent.  I love the interplay between Wood, members of Booker T, and others on stage.  Finally, like this song, there were quite a few deep-cuts chosen that night as well.

Listening loud helps.....

"Seven more days, all I gotta do is survive"

Gem Music Video: Seven Days

http://www.dailymotion.com/video/x2yrqk_ronnie-wood-seven-days-live-dylans_family?from=rss

- Pete

-----------------------------------------------

About the video: Dylan’s 30^th Anniversary with Atlantic Records live at Madison Square Garden, NY, NY.

-------------------------------------------

Best Feedback: Tom

Hi Pete

Another informative post of great facts, thanks!

FYI - the below's this blogger's ongoing dedication to Mr. Zimmerman's creativity/works:

http://maggiesfarm.anotherdotcom.com/authors/5-The-Dylanologist

Cheers

GMVW # 8: "Top of the Pops"

Gem Music Video of the Week #8: Top of the Pops

Song:  Senses Working Overtime by XTC

(Songwriter: Andy Partridge)

February 28, 2008

My good buddy Kurt and I have shared a laugh for many years at the expense of the clientele at the Plough and Stars in Cambridge MA (where, by the way, you have to walk across the stage to go to the bathroom, which gets tricky during a set).  Our thought is that if you are having one of those 'boy am I ugly' days, head to the Plough and Stars, where you will instantly feel like a million bucks.  There are times when a glance around this club makes you feel like you are in the bar scene of the first Star Wars movie. 

Ahhh, but most folks who frequent live music haunts like the Plough and Stars (i.e. the Tam, the old Channel, the old E.M. Lowes in Lowell, CBGB's, Nightstage, the Middle East, The Rat, etc.) know where their priorities are.  Whenever I go to one of these joints, I enjoy the occasion when I can break from the crew for a while and connect with the regulars, particularly the loners. 

Often, you find wisdom in these circles, and more often than not, conversations sway to music. 

Which leads to the Gem Music Video of the Week.  Rock Music is pretty near impossible to rank, but when you break it down to one of its sub-categories, say Pop, it gets a bit easier.  Many big-time magazines have tried to rank Pop songs, but it's from these night club ramblings and listening to late-night DJs (who are slotted in these 3rd shifts usually because their substance far outweighs their style) and their call-in listeners that I've gotten the inside scoop.  Granted their opinions are far from unanimous, or even of a majority.  However Gem Music Video of the Week, "Senses Working Overtime" has clearly percolated it's way to the top.

Who am I to argue? Somehow XTC, a middle-of-the-road band, was able to capture lightning in a bottle when they wrote this song.  It's a darn fun song to listen to. 

So, the question then becomes, can it be beat?  Well, as Dave hilariously pointed out to me in an earlier Gem Music Video of the Week, the song could clearly use "More Cowbell!!" (type these 2 words in you tube to find the multi-hit reference if you don't know).

Enjoy the song (below) and the weekend.... Pete

"And I can see, hear, smell, touch, taste

 And I've got 1, 2, 3, 4, 5...."

Gem Music Video: Senses Working Overtime

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SyX75NpibdU

- Pete

------------------------------------------

About the Video: 1982, appears to be the original video.  A couple of insets lead it off.  A live clip, although it appears to be in studio

------

Best Feedback: Fred

Outstanding.  You never were a "POP" guy, which makes this Gem choice all the more interesting.  I have become very POPPY with the music kel and Lil listen to, but will never forget my roots.

GMVW # 7: "A Declaration"

Gem Music Video of the Week # 7: A Declaration

Song: All You Need is Love by The Beatles

(Songwriters: John Lennon and Paul McCartney)

February 21, 2008

In 1967 a program was broadcast worldwide called 'Our World'.  It was the first satellite broadcast ever and the first viewed by millions.  The premise was to showcase a diversity of world cultures.  While other countries focused on more traditional activities (knitting in Canada, clog dancing in Venezuela, etc), Britain had the amazing insight to turn to the Beatles. 

'All You Need is Love', Gem Music Video of the Week, never appeared on an original Beatles studio album.  However, the song/video has a studio feel to it.  The Beatles aren't posing on a stage like you would expect in a live broadcast.  They are mixed in with the crowd (which included Clapton, Jagger, Keith Moon) and orchestra....a statement that reflects the times.  John Lennon, who wrote the song, looks unusually uplifted (as opposed to his more typical sarcastic veneer).

Britain, of all countries, was telling the rest of the world to lighten up!

In 1987, Rolling Stone Magazine hosted a prime time show which focused on the then 20 year history of the magazine (I've got the video if anyone wants to borrow it).  The show included great interviews with many musicians including George Harrison.  Beatle George discussed the 'All You Need is Love' event 20 years earlier, and brought up another interview he had not long before with a reporter who asked him cynically, 'Do you still believe that all you need is love'. George's response.... 'Absolutely!'.

So, here's a video to  honor the days when kids were streaking across Dean Junior College campus and thru the Franklin High School cafeteria, and others who were sticking flower stems into the gun barrels pointed in their direction.

Gem Music Video: All You Need is Love

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sTF_wJW7N4g&NR=1

- Pete

------------------------------------------------

About the video: Explained in the text above

------

Best Feedback:  Jack

Hi Pete:

Amazing they could sing this while chewing gum.  Also note I think there are a total of 4 songs reference in that piece.  The opening is long live the Queen or some such, then there's All You Need, then you hear a british musical piece played by the orchestra when they repeat "Love is all you need", of course followed by "She Loves You Yeah Yeah Yeah"!  Great piece!!

-Jack

 

GMVW # 6: "Biting the Hand That Feeds You"

Gem Music Video of the Week # 6: Biting the Hand That Feeds You

Song:  Radio, Radio by Elvis Costello

(Songwriter: Elvis Costello)

February 14, 2008

When I first saw Elvis Costello in a video, I wasn't sure what to make of him.  The anger fit, but it was pouty.  Then there was that revenge of the nerds look.  I was only a few years out of junior high school.  This was a bit hard to swallow.  Lucky for me I was young and able to get over this first impression.  It was not long before I was:

>  Wearing out the grooves to the "My Aim is True" album

>  Plowing my way to the stage at a scorching hot, open festival seating, Cape Cod Coliseum show (likely shedding 10 pounds in the process)

> Dubbing 'Less than Zero' the theme song during a great road trip with the Canadian crew (Ottawa to Vermont to Franklin to Cape Cod to NY City to Pennsylvania back to Ottawa) ** this was at the same time Dad, Fred & Joe went to Texas to see Flutie and BC in the Cotton Bowl

"Radio, Radio", Gem Music Video of the Week, is likely about the restrictive nature of state-owned BBC Radio in Elvis' home country, England.  It certainly could not have been about stations like 104.1 WBCN in Boston, which at the time was very independent, creative and spontaneous.  The song does relate to what eventually became of WBCN and many other stations around the country, which were bought out by mega-radio conglomerate corporation, Clear Channel.  I never thought Rock and Roll could be neutered.... but it was!  At least on the radio it was.  It may never fully recover, even with the advent of digital radio, which thus far fractures it's audience into format-centric factions.  As far as I'm concerned, the best radio stations out there, though few and far between, remain the small independently owned ones.

Enjoy the great vitriol!

"I want to bite the hand that feeds me

 I want to bite that hand so badly

 I want to make them wish they'd never seen me"

Gem Music Video: Radio, Radio

http://www.spike.com/video-clips/0fp6im/elvis-costello-radio-radio

- Pete

--------------------------------------------------------------

About the Video: This is the actual made-for MTV style music video of this song (starts out with a miniature Elvis in front of a juke box)

------

Best Feedback: Fred

Pete....truly another gem.  I think Elvis was one of the first albums that made me feel as though I was graduating from Beatles and Stones

Have a good one

-----

Also: Becca

Hey Pete,

Elvis was one of my first two albums ever owned...Jimmy gave them to me for Christmas (My Aim is True and you'll gag to this next one...."Player"). He knew I liked the song Red Shoes but I don't think either one of us had heard any other cuts at that point. I used to sing it at soccer practice in high school and as I recall, nobody on the team had ever heard of Elvis. It's amazing how quickly a musician can take off.

- Bec

GMVW # 5: "A Gale Blowing in My Face"

Gem Music Video of the Week # 5: A Gale Blowing in My Face

Song: A Little is Enough by Pete Townshend

(Songwriter: Pete Townshend)

February 7, 2008

The one regret I have of my 1986 summer tour of Europe with Bob was not catching Pete Townshend in Niece France on his first ever solo tour.  It was a mini tour consisting of only 3 shows (one in Niece and 2 in Bristol England) and we happened to wander into Niece 4 days after the show.   At the time, it was rare to hear Townshend do any solo (non Who) stuff so it would have been quite a treat.  I remember hearing about the show when we got there and feeling pretty lousy about the missed opportunity.  Later that year I bought the live album and not too soon after the video. 

This is one of the best songs from that concert and one of my favorite songs (I believe Bec agrees).  The song, "A Little is Enough" is off of Townshend's first true solo album, "Empty Glass", which is one of my favorite albums.  Townshend is one of the few tortured artists (rarely satisfied with his work) I can appreciate which is one of the many reasons why his music has always resonated with me.  Below the Gem Music Video of the Week, I've included some bonus tracks from the Empty Glass album that were released as promo videos and never saw the light of day when the album came out in 1980.

"Just like a sailor heading into the seas,

  there's a gale blowing in my face

  the high winds scare me but I need the breeze

  and I can't head for any other place"

Gem Music Video: A Little Is Enough

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DBRG-KI_UWk

Rough Boys

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dkT8W6u81Ks

I am an Animal.  I was originally considering this for Gem of the Week.  Such a great song.  Wish I knew what it was about.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jqEhi5fJUTg&feature=related

The title track. Pete's younger brother Simon is bouncing around looking eerily like a young Pete.  Considering the serious lyric contents of the song, it appears Pete is not so happy near the end of the song to see his brother bouncing so joyfully.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K04LkXsDaTU&feature=related

Keep on Working

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JkLCsXM66-4

- Pete

About the video: This is the official live video footage of Townshend’s 1986 Deep End tour.  The other videos are from the release period of Empty Glass.  Two are on stage (‘I am an Animal’ and ‘Empty Glass’) and the other 2 are not (‘Keep on Working’, ‘Rough Boys’)

Best Feedback: Becca

I most certainly do agree Pete....Pete's Deep End Live CD (with "A Little is Enough") was literally the first CD that I ever bought (a gift for Dave that turned out to be one of my favorite CDs ever).

Also: Fred

Can’t believe it took 5 weeks to get to one of my clips!  You are out of the fan club

              - Pete T