Crimson and Clover - Tommy James and the Shondells

If you are like me, you probably didn't know this song was by Tommy James ( also famous for Mony Mony) and probably credited it to someone else, in my case Simon and Garfunkel. Released in 1969, this song is incredibly revolutionary in music with its unique wobble like guitar sounds. At the end too, there is a wobbly effect on his vocals, which he achieved by plugging his mic in through his guitar amp. An awesome sound with great effects, and some simple lyrics that are easy to relate to make this such a classic hit.

Famous Last Words - My Chemical Romance

For about a year, I was obsessed with the Black Parade album by My Chemical Romance, especially this song. They got their name when the bassist was hit by a book while working in a library that was titled Ecstacy: Three Tales of Chemical Romance. The Black Parade album is a Rock Opera, about a man who is diagnosed with cancer and then tells the story of his death, the afterlife, and his reflection on life. Famous Last Words is really his reflection on his life, and an incredible close to this album. Gerard Way, the main writer, believes that death happens for people in the form of heir favorite thing, in this case a parade. This would have been incredible to see live, as they donned a new persona, much like the Beatles Sgt Peppers band, with Gerard also taking on a role of the patient, much like Bob Geldorf when he portrayed Pink Floyd. I'm lucky enough to have this album on vinyl and think this is one of the best rock operas of our time.

(I Just) Died In Your Arms- Cutting Crew

A band started by a Canadian and a Brit, this one was written by Nick Van Eede for his band Cutting Crew in 1986. This song has one of the coolest openings I remember as a kid, but wasn't near as big of a fan of it back then. Being the 80's and with the name Cutting Crew, I had always kind of thought this song was a little emo and sad. It wasn't till I heard the song many years later that I realized the song is actually referring to sex, and Nick actually wrote the title line while having sex with his then girlfriend ( the dying referring to an orgasm). Still, a pretty good hit, with good composition, strong vocals, and an especially great opening and hook.

25 or 6 to 4 - Chicago

Horns are awesome, they can make a song, and for Chicago they make this one a hit. With its easy but catchy guitar riff, and it's hand off between lyrics and horns, it's hard not to get into this song. The guitar soloing in this song is not only awesome, but subtly follows along with the horns as to not distract from the lyrics. that brings me to the best part of this song ; the lyrics. They are simple, and are basically exactly what Robert Lamm was doing when he wrote them. If you listen to them, it just describes somewhat his life at the time. Although this song has been accused of being about drugs( because every good song is for some reason) it is just about him being up all night on tour and not being able to sleep or some up with anything to write ( searching for something to say, waiting for the break of day). The title itself is believed to be the time around when he wrote it, 3:35( or 3:34) am. Just an awesome example of early 70's music.

Save the Population - Red Hot Chili Peppers

Red Hot Chili Peppers are known for their unique sound and slew of hits, and it's very hard to pick a favorite song that they wrote. When it comes down to it though, theres is something I love about the simplicity of this chorus ; the double singing, the bass riff, the guitar lick that is both full but not over bearing. The line itself I think is absolutely perfect, Stay all night, we'll save the population. Why is this song so overlooked amongst their hits? Mainly due to the fact that it was released on a greatest hits album, being one of only 2 from a new 14 written deemed worthy to be on the album. Not only that, but it was the last song on the cd, so many fans would likely have tuned out or just kept switching back to one of their favorite hits to listen again. This cd is one of the best greatest hits albums of all time, and this song is worth checking out.

When the Lady Smiles - Golden Earring

Credited as being the longest band still touring ( yes, even longer then the Rolling Stones), they have put together some strong hits. This Dutch band actually had the video banned at first, as one scene depicts him trying to rape a nun, which seems like almost nothing today when you watch it. The singer has such a cool sounding voice, and this song has a really cool build up to the chorus, making it one of their best hits. The video for this song is awesome in general too, it really seems to fit the song and the timing is perfect. Definitely proof why this band is considered the best Dutch band of all time.

When The Music's Over- The Doors

The theirs longest song by the Doors, this song appears on 1967's Strange Days as the closer. Probably one of their more psychedelic albums, this is a very under rated songs in my opinion. It's got some great keyboard, very subtle but awesome guitar work, and Jim's incredible voice. It also contains about a 4 minute quiet poem part which I think is just awesome. Definitely worth checking out, be it Doors fan or not.

Roll Up Your Sleeves - We Were Promised Jet Packs

A new band I've just discovered, I currently get enough of this song. I think it has great composition, a great bass line, a solid bridge, but by far my favorite part is Adam Thompson's vocals. This band from Scotland, which is pretty obvious I think by his voice. They have only been releasing music since 2009, with a second album just coming out, these guys have a great sound and are definitely worth checking out.

Virginia - Prism

My personal favorite song by Prism, it's got a great driving bass line, some subtle keyboard, and a great drum breakdown. Another Canadian band, Prism hails from Vancouver BC, and has won a Juno for group of the year back in 81. Although they split for awhile, they are apparently back together and still touring. Yesterday's song was off of their debut album, while Virginia is off the third album, which also spawned probably their greatest hit Armageddon. This album is also interesting, as Bryan Adams was called in to help write three of the songs as Prism was unable to come up within enough material on it's own (however the three big hits did not include Adams, including Virginia). Virginia was actually NOT written by their main composer, Jim Vallance, who had actually left the band, or their other main composer who was still a part, Lindsay Mitchell. This song was actually written by Bruce Miller, who I can find no information about and who was never in the band. Still a great song however.

Spaceship Superstar - Prism

For Ozzy, who's birthday is today, a song by his favorite band growing up that he often brags that he can get off of this first little noise you hear, which is true. I will follow this up tomorrow with my favorite song by the same band.

I Hear You Knocking - Dave Bartholomew

Originally written by Dave in 1955, this was a pretty popular song that was covered by several artists of the day. It has a cool guitar lick with some simple lyrics about someone's ex coming back and him not taking them back. The video I've picked and perhaps one of the best known versions is by Dale Edmunds. John Lennon personally said this version was his favorite new recording, and it took the coveted number 1 spot at Christmas, so that speaks a lot for this hit.

Love In Stereo - The Monks

This album is pretty awesome (Bad Habits) and spawned a fair bit of hits for this punkish band, but Love in Stereo always seemed to be the biggest in my opinion. Simply about a man in love with two women and unable to choose between them. Although they only ever put out two albums, the second only getting any playtime in Canada, I'm quite the fan of this band and think their somewhat spoof punk sound is enjoyable and also really well put together.

Judy Blue Eyes - Crosby, Stills, and Nash

Quite possibly the best super group of all time, although the Wilburries had the personal just not the library to overtake them. Getting David Crosby from the Byrds, Stephen Stills from Buffalo Springfield, and Graham Nash from the Hollies makes up the core of the band, with occasional member Neil Young. Not only is the guitar work phenomenal in this song, and band in general, what I've always loved about them is their harmonizing lyrics, which enough bands frankly don't do anymore ( harmonizing with yourself while recording is NOT the same!). One of their earliest gigs together ( I think it was in fact their second gig ever) was at Woodstock, and that'd be enough to scare you shitless. The first version of this song was written by Stephen Stills mainly, and did not contain Young. It has been played at Live Aid and Woodstock, two of the biggest festivals of all time.This song is about Stills ex, another famous writer named Judy Collins. The end of this song, part 4, has always been my favorite and is probably the most recognizable. Just a great song on the whole, by one of the best bands to play the stage.

Funeral Song - The Rasmus

A very sad sad song, that I've had a strong love for ever since I was introduced to the Rasmus in high school. It may be the strings or his great vocals, but I think it's the lyrics, especially in the chorus that make me love it so much. Great band with a very solid album surrounding this song, but definitely the stand alone favorite for me.

If I Ever Leave This World Alive - Flogging Molly

Hell, it's St. Patty's and there's no Irish(Celtic) band I enjoy more then Flogging Molly. This is my favorite song of there's as it has a great build up and very noticeable Irish singing style along with some prominent fiddle. Give it a listen, as well as the whole Drunken Lullabies album for that matter, and enjoy St. Pats.

Amazing Grace - John Newton

I know everyone knows this song - hell it's considered the most recognizable song in the English language. Today though, I heard the story of it's creation while listening to a rebroadcast of Casey Kasem, and found it incredible. Like most people I'm sure, I immediately associate this song with the church, and to be fair it's writer John Newton become a minister. But at the time when he wrote it, John Newton was in fact a sailor of a British Navy boat who delivered African slaves up to Britain. He began to feel terrible for his involvement in this, especially when they had to be isolated in the hole. After struggling with it for some time, he eventually had a revelation during a rough night at sea, actually calling out to God for mercy. He then went and penned this poem, a collection of his thought and experiences about what he had been involved in, and how he felt the grace of God. He would eventually leave the Navy to study Theology before eventually becoming a pastor. The lyrics are stunningly beautiful, and I picked this version for it's acapella deliverance, which makes it feel more like a poem to me.

Amazing Grace

Amazing Grace, how sweet the sound,
That saved a wretch like me....
I once was lost but now am found,
Was blind, but now, I see.

T'was Grace that taught...
my heart to fear.
And Grace, my fears relieved.
How precious did that Grace appear...
the hour I first believed.

Through many dangers, toils and snares...
we have already come.
T'was Grace that brought us safe thus far...
and Grace will lead us home.

The Lord has promised good to me...
His word my hope secures.
He will my shield and portion be...
as long as life endures.

Yea, when this flesh and heart shall fail,
and mortal life shall cease,
I shall possess within the veil,
a life of joy and peace.

When we've been here ten thousand years...
bright shining as the sun.
We've no less days to sing God's praise...
then when we've first begun.

"Amazing Grace, how sweet the sound,
That saved a wretch like me....
I once was lost but now am found,
Was blind, but now, I see.

Second Hand News - Fleetwood Mac

One of the greatest bands ever, one of the best albums of all time. Every song is a hit, every lick is perfect, and the vocal deliverance is immaculate. Any song off this album could easily make it but I picked Second Hand News not only because it starts off the album, but I think the chorus is just awesome; I mean, I can't even find anywhere that can clearly tell me what he's singing there or if he's just making noises, but it sounds awesome. Lindsey Buckingham is a solid writer, great lyricist, and phenomenal guitar player. Period.

Second Hand News

I know there's nothin' to say
Someone has taken my place
When times go bad
And times get rough
Won't you lay me down in the tall grass
And let me do my stuff

I know I got nothin' on you
I know there's nothin' I can do
When times go bad
And you can't get enough
Won't you lay me down in the tall grass
And let me do my stuff

One thing I think you should know
I ain't gonna miss you when you go
Been down so long
I've been tossed around enough
Oh couldn't you just let me go down
And do my stuff

I know you're hopin' to find
Someone who's gonna give you peace of mind
When times go bad
When times go rough
Won't you lay me down in the tall grass
And let me do my stuff

I'm just second hand news (I'm just second hand news, yeah)
I'm just second hand news (I'm just second hand news, yeah)
I'm just second hand news (I'm just second hand news, yeah)
I'm just second hand news (I'm just second hand news, yeah)

Ain't No Sunshine - Bill Withers

This song has just absolutely beautiful vocals and lyrics. A song to listen to when you've been left and you're down. You can feel his pain through his voice, and it's incredible feeling. I've felt this song, and am sure I will again. It is a short one, but that's all the time Bill needed to get his message across. This song was actually written while Bill worked in a factory making toilet seats for 747's, which makes you believe in anything. It has been covered by a huge variety of artists, and is in it'sown rights one of the best songs ever released.

Ain't No Sunshine

Ain't no sunshine when she's gone.
It's not warm when she's away.
Ain't no sunshine when she's gone
and she's always gone too long
anytime she goes away.

Wonder this time where she's gone,
wonder if she's gone to stay
Ain't no sunshine when she's gone
and this house just ain't no home
anytime she goes away.

And I know, I know, I know, I know, I know,
I know, I know, I know, I know, I know, I know,
I know, I know, I know, I know, I know, I know,
I know, I know, I know, I know, I know, I know,
I know, I know, I know

Hey, I ought to leave the young thing alone,
but ain't no sunshine when she's gone,
ain't no sunshine when she's gone,
only darkness everyday.
Ain't no sunshine when she's gone,
and this house just ain't no home
anytime she goes away.
Anytime she goes away.
Anytime she goes away.
Anytime she goes away.
Anytime she goes away.

Jessie's Girl - Rick Springfield

Some easy guitar work in this song, but its backed by some solid drums, and Rick's great vocal abilities. The lyrics are also very well written and really tell a story. This song actually won Rick a Grammy for best man vocal performance in 81. This song was written about his friend Gary, using the name Jessie so that he wouldn't know. He later tried to find out who this girl was, as he only ever eyed her from afar, but found out Gary had died and therefore will never be able to find the girl who inspired this song.

Jessie's Girl

Jessie is a friend,
Yeah, I know he's been
A good friend of mine
But lately something's changed
That ain't hard to define
Jessie's got himself a girl
And I want to make her mine
And she's watching him with those eyes
And she's lovin' him with that body,
I just know it
Yeah 'n' he's holding her in his arms late,
Late at night

You know, I wish that I had Jessie's girl,
I wish that I had Jessie's girl
Where can I find a woman like that
I play along with the charade,
there doesn't seem to be a reason to change
You know, I feel so dirty
When they start talking cute
I wanna tell her that I love her,
But the point is probably moot
'Cos she's watching him with those eyes
And she's lovin' him with that body,
I just know it
And he's holding her in his arms late, late at night

Like Jessie's girl,
I wish that I had Jessie's girl
Where can I find a woman,
Where can I find a woman like that
And I'm lookin' in the mirror all the time,
Wondering what she don't see in me
I've been funny,
I've been cool with the lines
Ain't that the way
Love supposed to be
Tell me, where can I find a woman like that

You know, I wish that I had Jessie's girl,
I wish that I had Jessie's girl
I want Jessie's girl,
Where can I find a woman like that, like
Jessie's girl,
I wish that I had Jessie's girl,
I want,
I want Jessie's girl

Doesn't Really Matter - Platinum Blonde

Are you sitting comfortably? Good, then we'll begin. Another Canadian new wave band of the 80's, they were actually recently introduced into the Canadian Music Hall of Fame.....today. Makes them the perfect band for today. This song has got a really cool feel to it, a very unique vocal deliverance, and a sweet little drum solo in the middle. Starting out as a Police cover band, this song along with Standing in the Dark gained them some fame as well as heavy rotation on the newly formed Much Music. This song was very political, and discussed matters of the police state repression. The lead singer of Platinum Blonde actually opened up the Mod Club in Toronto, which is a great place to check out music and a very popular venue here. Please note : the video I posted cut out the first line, which I used to open my post, and it's a damn shame.

Doesn't Really Matter

It's been a hard day in the city
It affects you in the most peculiar way
Dull day don't seem pretty
We've said all that there is to say
And if you were to ask me questions
You don't really want to know
Your concern is just for show
Your name's a number, just press a button
Your memories lost but they've not forgotten

They try to break our lust for passion
They try to tell us that it's not in fashion
And if you were' to ask me questions
What are we fighting-for?
We're just breaking down the door

(chorus)
It doesn't really matter
I've been through this all before
It doesn't really matter

They fight in England and Northern Ireland
The police they try to hold us still
They can bleed us and they can feed us
But you know they'll never control our will
And if you were to ask that question
What are we fighting for?
We're just breaking down the door

(chorus

Sunny Days - Lighthouse

Another great Canadian band, this time hailing from Toronto itself, this song starts off with a little keys and some interesting horn work. This is definitly a summer song, and is a fairly inspiring song I think. What makes this song is the chorous, which has such a solid blend of all the instruments and a simple lyrical set up. Not only were they the first Canadian group with a Platinum certified album, back in 72, they also won the Juno for Canadian artist in 72, 73, and 74.

Sunny Days

Sittin' stoned alone in my backyard
Askin' myself "Why should I work so hard?"
Sittin' dreamin' 'bout the days to come
Half-undressed, just soakin' up the sun

Sittin' here, I hope I don't get fried
Two years ago, you know, I almost died
And yet, there's nothin' better for your soul
Than lyin' in the sun and listenin' to rock 'n roll

Sunny days
Oh, sunny, sunny, sunny days
Ain't nothin' better in the world, you know
Than lyin' in the sun with your radio

Sunny days
Oh, sunny, sunny, sunny days
Ain't nothin' better in the world, you know
Than lyin' in the sun with your radio

I really think there's nothin' quite so fine
As lettin' the sun rejuvenate your mind
Don't get me wrong, I really dig the moon
But it was four in the afternoon when I wrote this tune

And now the sun's about to fade away
I'm feelin' better than I've felt for days
You know, there's nothin' better for your soul
Than lyin' in the sun and listenin' to rock 'n roll

Sunny days
Oh, sunny, sunny, sunny days
Ain't nothin' better in the world, you know
Than lyin' in the sun with your radio

Sunny days
Oh, sunny, sunny, sunny days
Ain't nothin' better in the world, you know
Than lyin' in the sun with your radio-

Sunny days
Oh, sunny, sunny, sunny days
Ain't nothin' better in the world, you know
Than lyin' in the sun with your radio

Sunny days
Oh, sunny, sunny, sunny days
Ain't nothin' better in the world, you know
Than lyin' in the sun with your radio

Eclipse - Pink Floyd

This song, off Darkside of the Moon, is a perfect example of a closing song for an album. What made Darkside such a popular album was it's simple lyrics that everyone could identify with, and this song is no exception. It's musical brilliance, with a great progression, especially the backing vocals that come in. The lyrics themselves are some of my favorites from not just Pink Floyd but any band. This one is actually song by Waters, with Gilmour doing backing, which I have preferred, although Gilmour does them now that the band has split. The last line ' everything under the sun is in tune, but the sun is eclipsed by the moon' really summed up the album. Waters described the album as the differences between sun and moon; light and dark; good and bad, and this last is meant to show the good that is out there but how easily we can be distracted by the bad that gets in between.

Eclipse

All that you touch
And all that you see
All that you taste
All you feel
And all that you love
And all that you hate
All you distrust
All you save
And all that you give
And all that you deal
And all that you buy
Beg, borrow or steal
And all you create
And all you destroy
And all that you do
And all that you say
And all that you eat
And everyone you meet
And all that you slight
And everyone you fight
And all that is now
And all that is gone
And all that's to come
And everything under the sun is in tune
But the sun is eclipsed by the moon

"There is no dark side of the moon really. Matter of fact it's all dark."

Sex On Wheelz - My Life With the Thrill Kill Kult

This is an odd one, but I've always found it catchy. It's also most likely 100% responsible for blowing out one of the speakers I use to own with it's pounding bass line. Apparently they had one of the wildest stage shows, with costume changes and intense visuals, and I don't doubt it. I find it hard to believe this came out in 90's but I really don't know under what genre to classify their music. They've definitely put out some weird stuff, some alright, but most of it pretty bad. This one is worth the listen though, and you should definitely crank the bass. Btw they are still releasing music to this day, I believe, with a new album out last year.

Sex on Wheelz

Ooo b-baby,
Sex On Wheelz.
Ooo b-baby,
Sex On Wheelz!

I'll turn you on like a tiger baby.
Hard body,.Motor City.
Love life!
I'll take you for a ride, down the mindway baby.
Be my little human sacrifice.

Do my kisses burn?
Do they take your breath?
You've got a lesson to learn now...
I'm the kiss of death!

History is written by winners baby,
so let's make a little of our own tonight.
If you're thinkin' my idea of fun is a drag,
then you've never been to paradise.

Do my kisses burn?
Do they take your breath?
You've got a lesson to learn now...
I'm the kiss of death!

Sex On Wheelz!
Sex on wheelz. (x4)

I'll turn you on like a tiger baby.
Hard body,.Motor City.
Love life!
I'll take you for a ride, down the mindway baby.
Be my little human sacrifice.

Do my kisses burn?
Do they take your breath?
You've got a lesson to learn now...
I'm the kiss of death!

Sex On Wheelz!
Sex on wheelz. (x4)

Sex on wheelz.
Sex On Wheelz!

OOO B-baby.
Ooo b-baby.
OOO B-baby.
Ooo b-baby.

Sex On Wheelz!
Sex on wheelz. (x4)

Sex On Wheelz!
Sex on wheelz.

Sex On Wheelz!

Sex On Wheelz!

Lay It On The Line - Triumph

This song just starts epically; I mean listen to it. Great guitar work, some slide bass and Rik Emmetts solid vocal deliverance. This was the first big hit for this Canadian band, off their 1979 album Just a Game. They were truly a rock trio, often compared to Rush, but really sells this band is Emmetts outstanding vocals. An outstanding song by a great Canadian band.

Lay It On the Line

It's the same old story all over again
You turn a lover into just another friend
I wanna love you i wanna make you mine
Won't you lay it on the line

I'm tired of playin' foolish games
I'm tired of all your lies makin' me insane
I don't ask for much truth will do just fine
Won't you lay it on the line

Lay it on the line
Lay it on the line
Lay it on the line
Don't waste my time

You got no right to make me wait
Better talk girl before it gets too late
I never ever thought you could be so unkind
Won't you lay it on the line

Lay it on the line
Lay it on the line
Lay it on the line
Don't waste my time

You know i love you you know it's true
It's up to you girl now what have i got to do
Don't hold me up girl don't waste my precious time
Won't you lay it on the line

Lay it on the line
Lay it on the line
Lay it on the line
Lay it on the line

Don't hold me up girl
Lay it on the line
Yeah yeah
Lay it on the line

Lay it on the line girl
Lay it on the line
Oh don't hold me up girl
Lay it on the line

Lay it on the line
Lay it on the line
Lay it on the line

I Was Made For Loving You - KISS

I know people seem to hate disco, but this song is just so awesome, especially due to the solid bass line. A great vocal deliverance with some fairly good lyrics, this song is one of KISSes finest, and would have been something to see live I'm sure. Paul Stanley actually wrote this song to prove how easy it was to write and record a hit disco single. Still a great along to sing along to and probably one of my favorites disco songs.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kNGNLo8K6Fk&feature=related

I Was Made For Loving You

Do, do, do, do, do, do, do, do, do
Do, do, do, do, do, do, do
Do, do, do, do, do, do, do, do, do
Do, do, do, do, do, do, do
Tonight I wanna give it all to you
In the darkness
There's so much I wanna do
And tonight I wanna lay it at your feet
'Cause girl, I was made for you
And girl, you were made for me

I was made for lovin' you baby
You were made for lovin' me
And I can't get enough of you baby
Can you get enough of me

Tonight I wanna see it in your eyes
Feel the magic
There's something that drives me wild
And tonight we're gonna make it all come true
'Cause girl, you were made for me
And girl I was made for you

I was made for lovin' you baby
You were made for lovin' me
And I can't get enough of you baby
Can you get enough of me

I was made for lovin' you baby
You were made for lovin' me
And I can give it all to you baby
Can you give it all to me

Oh, can't get enough, oh, oh
I can't get enough, oh, oh
I can't get enough
Yeah, ha

Do, do, do, do, do, do, do, do, do
Do, do, do, do, do, do, do
Do, do, do, do, do, do, do, do, do
Do, do, do, do, do, do, do

I was made for lovin' you baby
You were made for lovin' me
And I can't get enough of you baby
Can you get enough of me

Oh, I was made, you were made
I can't get enough
No, I can't get enough

I was made for lovin' you baby
You were made for lovin' me
And I can't get enough of you baby
Can you get enough of me

I was made for lovin' you baby
You were made for lovin' me
And I can give it all to you baby

Sign of the Gypsy Queen - April Wine

April Wine is an incredible band, even if most of their hits are cover songs (this one, coulda been a lady, bad side of the moon). Another Canadian band, this time hailing from Nova Scotia, they picked the name April Wine because they thought the two words sounded cool together. This song helped April Wine have their first international platinum selling album. They actually received a little bit if luck as earlier in their career they were set to play a show in Toronto with a band called the 'cockroaches". It was a very well known fact however that the band was actually the Rolling Stones, and people flocked to see them. This gave April Wine a new fan-base, and they opened for a bit for the Rolling Stones as well as Rush, helping them cement their way into rock and roll fame.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l38CIbuOPHw&feature=PlayList&p=A374DC6A64CBF67D&index=0&playnext=1

Sign of the Gypsy Queen

Lightning smokes on the hillrise
Brought the man with the warning light
Shouting loud, "You had better fly"
While the darkness can help you hide

Trouble's coming without control
No one's staying that's got a hope
Hurricane at the very least
In the words of the gypsy queen

Sign of the gypsy queen
Pack your things and leave
Word of a woman who knows
Take all your gold and you go

Get my saddle and tie it on
Western wind who is fast and strong
Jump on back, he's good and long
Well resist till we reach the dawn

Running seems like the best offense
Staying just don't make any sense
No one could ever stop it now
Show the cards of the gypsy town

Sign of the gypsy queen
Pack your things and leave
Word of a woman who knows
Take all your gold and you go

Shadows moving without a sound
From the hold of the sleepless town
Evil seems to be everywhere
Heed the spirit that brought despair

Trouble's coming without control
No one's staying thats got a hope
Hurricane at the very least
In the words of the gypsy queen

Sign of the gypsy queen
Pack your things and leave
Word of a woman who knows
Take all your gold and you go

Sign of the gypsy queen
Pack your things and leave
Word of a woman who knows
Take all your gold and you go

Sign of the gypsy queen
Pack your things and leave
Word of a woman who knows
Take all your gold and you go

Moon River - Andy Williams/ Audrey Hepburn

An oldie, I enjoy the soft undertones of the backing music and the strength of the vocal performance. This song has been performed by a multitude of stars including Elton John and Frank Sinatra but this version happens to be my favorite I've heard. Originally written for Audrey Hepburn, it is sung in Breakfast at Tiffany's. This song is beautifully done too for its very simple acoustic beginning.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=flm4xcOyiCo - Andy Williams
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BOByH_iOn88&NR=1 - Audrey Hepburn

Moon River

Moon river, wider than a mile
I'm crossing you in style some day
Oh, dream maker, you heart breaker
Wherever you're goin', I'm goin' your way

Two drifters, off to see the world
There's such a lot of world to see
We're after the same rainbow's end, waitin' 'round the bend
My huckleberry friend, moon river, and me

(moon river, wider than a mile)
(I'm crossin' you in style some day)
Oh, dream maker, you heart breaker
Wherever you're goin', I'm goin' your way

Two drifters, off to see the world
There's such a lot of world to see
We're after that same rainbow's end, waitin' 'round the bend
My huckleberry friend, moon river, and me

The Night Chicago Died - Paper Lace

This is another one of those songs I own on 45, but it has a unique sound to it that's really hard to define. Couple that with some cool lyrics about Capone and the demise of Chicago and you got a hit. Written from the prospective of a Chicago police man's mother, the singer is waiting to see if her son survived the shootout. I especially love the cowbell part, just so cool. This was only a secondary hit for them, not reaching as high as Billy don't be a Hero, but is my favorite of the two for it's more unique composition.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p-L0NpaErkk

The Night Chicago Died - Paper Lace

In the heat of a summer night
In the land of the dollar bill
When the town of Chicago died
And they talk about it still

When a man named Al Capone
Tried to make that town his own
And he called his gang to war
With the forces of the law

I heard my mama cry
I heard her pray the night Chicago died
Brother what a night it really was
Brother what a fight it really was
Glory be

I heard my mama cry
I heard her pray the night Chicago died
Brother what a night the people saw
Brother what a fight the people saw
Yes indeed

And the sound of the battle rang
Through the streets of the old east side
'Til the last of the hoodlum gang
Had surrendered up or died

There was shouting in the street
And the sound of running feet
And I asked someone who said
Bout a hundred cops are dead

I heard my mama cry
I heard her pray the night Chicago died
Brother what a night it really was
Brother what a fight it really was
Glory be!

I heard my mama cry
I heard her pray the night Chicago died
Brother what a night the people saw
Brother what a fight the people saw
Yes indeed

And ther was no sound at all
But the clock upon the wall
Then the door burst open wide
And my daddy stepped inside
And he kissed my mama's face
And he brushed her tears away

The night Chicago died
The night Chicago died
Brother what a night the people saw
Brother what a fight the people saw
Yes indeed

The night Chicago died
The night Chicago died
Brother what a night it really was
Brother what a fight it really was
Glory be

The night Chicago died
The night Chicago died
Brother what a night the people saw
Brother what a fight the people saw
Yes indeed

Walk on the Wild Side - Lou Reed

This is a very chill song with some light acoustic guitar, a strong bass line and some very laid back vocals. Written about a lot of transvestites that hung at Andy Warhol's studio, The Factory. Produced by David Bowie, it has some of his vocals for backing. Not only do I love this song for it's mellow feel and cool lyrics, is got that sweet sax solo to fade that just ties up the song. One of the funniest things about this song was that when it was written in 1972, a lot of people did not understand the slang of "giving head", and therefore it wasn't edited when played on the radio.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4pAE5G5OBzw

Walk on the Wild Side

Holly Came From Miami, Fla
Hitchhiked Her Way Across The USA.
Plucked Her Eyebrows On The Way
Shaved Her Leg And Then He Was She - She Said:

Hey Babe, Take A Walk On The Wild Side,
Said Hey Honey, Take A Walk On The Wild Side.

Candy Came From Out On The Island,
In The Backroom She Was Everybodys Darling,
But She Never Lost Her Head
Even When She Was Given Head - She Said

Hey Babe, Take A Walk On The Wild Side,
Said Hey Honey, Take A Walk On The Wild Side.
And The Coloured Girls Go, Doo Dodoo

Little Joe Never Once Gave It Away,
Ev'rybody Had To Pay And Pay.
A Hustle Here And A Hustle There
New York City Is No Place Where They Said:

Hey Babe, Take A Walk On The Wild Side,
Said Hey Honey, Take A Walk On The Wild Side.

Sugar Plum Fairy Came And Hit The Streets
Looking For Soul Food And A Place To Eat
Went To The Apollo, You Should Have Seen Him Go Go Go - They Said:

Hey Sugar, Take A Walk On The Wild Side,
Said Hey Honey, Take A Walk On The Wild Side.

Jackie Is Just Speeding Away,
Thought She Was James Dean For A Day
Then I Guess She Had To Crash, Valium Would Have Helped That Bash - She Said:

Hey Sugar, Take A Walk On The Wild Side,
Said Hey Honey, Take A Walk On The Wild Side.
And The Coloured Girls Go, Doo Dodoo

We Will Rock You / We are the Champions - Queen

Pretty much how my last two days have felt are perfectly captured by this medley. Enjoy.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zBUJztI884M&feature=related

We Will Rock You / We are the Champions

Buddy you're a boy make a big noise
Playing in the street gonna be a big man some day
You got mud on your face
You big disgrace
Kickin' your can all over the place
Singin'

We will we will rock you
We will we will rock you

Buddy you're a young man hard man
Shouting in the street gonna take on the world some day
You got blood on your face
A big disgrace
Wavin' your Banner all over the place

We will we will rock you
We will we will rock you

Buddy you're an old man poor man
Pleading with your eyes gonna make you some peace some day
You got mud on your face
Big disgrace
Somebody better put you back into your place

We will we will rock you
We will we will rock you

've paid my dues -
Time after time -
I've done my sentence
But committed no crime -
And bad mistakes
I've made a few
I've had my share of sand kicked in my face -
But I've come through

We are the champions - my friends
And we'll keep on fighting - till the end -
We are the champions -
We are the champions
No time for losers
'Cause we are the champions - of the world -

I've taken my bows
And my curtain calls -
You brought me fame and fortuen and everything that goes with it
-
I thank you all -

But it's been no bed of roses
No pleasure cruise -
I consider it a challenge before the whole human race -
And I ain't gonna lose -

We are the champions - my friends
And we'll keep on fighting - till the end -
We are the champions -
We are the champions
No time for losers
'Cause we are the champions - of the world -