Sam Lit, son of famous Philapelphia DJ Hy Lit has kept the Bandstand going on his radio shows, HyLitRadio.com and local appearances like this recent one, 3/10, featuring Bandstand Regulars and a great interview with Charlie O’donnel, Dick Clark’s long-time announcer and ‘Second Banana’ on Bandstand ; also a great Picture Page from the original days at American Bandstand in Philadelphia
Friday Night:
Join HyLitRadio for a little Bandstand Rock n Roll, food, fun, steak & sushi @ Spamps 16 East 1st Avenue, Conshohocken Pa.
Host: Sam Lit. Live Bandstand Party Friday Night 5-10pm (HyLitRadio Live Broadcast)
Free parking, Dancing.
Bandstand Babe, Bonnie Nadley will be signing autographs and teaching the Bristol Stomp, The Stroll, The Wagner Walk, The Electric Slide, The Chez Vous, The Bila and many, many, more.
Confirmed: Bandstand Legend Carmella Astrella will be arriving before 5:30.
See pictures of Bandstand Bonnie & Carmella in the picture carousel. Click the link below.See you Friday Night @ Spamps 16 East 1st Avenue, Conshohocken Pa. Show starts 5pm.
Make it a date and don’t be late
Listen to a rare interview Sam Lit has with Charlie O Donnel. He is the legendary announcer of American Bandstand. Charlie has also been the announcer of Wheel of Fortune for the last 35 years.
Charlie shares some rare facts about American Bandstand, and landing at WFIL TV after beginning a broadcast career in Philly at the dawn of Rock n Roll. In Los Angeles he became the voice of award winning TV Game Shows.
Click to listen to the 5 minute interview (Part 1).
ML code:
See and hear one of the great entertainers from the 50s and 60s, still going strong – Ray Stevens, renassiance man. He sings great – all styles from rock and roll to country: Remember Ahab the Arab, Guitarzan, Everything is Beautiful? There are lots more than that. It’s a mix of comedy, novelty and great rock and roll and country with a little pollitical humor thrown in. Ray is a unique genius talent ENTERTAINER EXTRARDINAIRE, unlke anyone else you have ever seen.So come along, for lless than $5 a month
click above banner to join the fun. In Episode 1 See buddy Phil Everly in a skit where Phil plays Ray’s manager
I’d like to wish you all a very Happy Valentines Day / Week / Month…. and bring you some joy and savings of 50c and 60c and more coupons, i f you get the drift – I’m in OLDIES Country – the 50s and 60s , you know. We’re not supposed to have internet but click here to be transported to Coupon Country / Yellow Pages Coupons! And a special thanks to the Great Jackie Wilson for the music (If you don’t hear it, click on the arrow below... and LOOK! I’m dancing almost right in step with the music! One of my favorites…
NOW, Here are some more great tunes from the Fifites and Sixties. Enjoy!
Do You Remember picnics in the park
Do you remember
Dancing in the dark
Do you remember
Lying in the sand
All these special moments
We had in wonderland
If I could take these precious moments
Put them in a box
If I could feel these times once more
I’d turn back the clock
Wouldn’t it be wonderful
The way that things were then
I would like to turn back time
Live it all again
Do you remember
Stealing that first kiss
Do you remember
Falling in love like this
Time goes by so swiftly
Time goes by so fast
I want to have these good times
I want our love to last
[Spanish section]
Do you remember
the meaning of romance
Do you remember
when we took the chance
Wouldn’t it be wonderful
Not to think of sorrow
I want all my yesterdays
To be my bright tomorrows
If I could take these precious moments
Put them in a box
If I could feel these times once more
I’d turn back the clock
Wouldn’t it be wonderful
The way that things were then
I would like to turn back time
Live it all again
Times change, People change and Neil Sedaka remains one of the few consistencies in the world today. Yes, Sedaka is very much going strong -with a new album and live appearances- as he has been doing for over five decades.. While the music scene is vastly different today Sedaka’s singing and playing i as good as ever. ‘The Music of My Life,’ just released after over a year in the making, consists of original Sedaka material with an emphasis on looking back at his long, successful career. ‘Music of my Life’ and is an eclectic mix of the many styles Sedaka drawn on in his storied career. The opener, ‘Do You Remember?’ has already become a hit in England -yes, that’s right – make it five, no , that’s SIX DECADES of hits for Sedaka!. Anyway, Do You Remember is an infectious, Salsa-styled number that harkens back to the ‘good d old days.’ Unlike many vintage artists who will pass off the changing times as ‘Our parents said the same thing about our music and times’. Sedaka seems more adamant. Listen to the lyrics closely – and not in just the opening song but many of them- and you will see that he is not afraid to speak his mind. In other words, much of life today sucks (if you will)- most of the music, movies and TV. Good for you Neil for telling it like it is. . If only more people would stand up and reject the status quo. Thankfully, we have Neil and scarily few other true ‘throwbacks’ still staying true to the good stuff.
There’s a little bit of everything on this new CD, including a fine doo-wop effort and ‘You,’ a classic Sedaka ballad brought back from a few years ago. Though some of the old innocense may be gone from this CD, its still got its share of ‘Happy Days’ ; I like the patented Sedaka storybook lyrics like ‘wonderland’ included on ‘Do You Remember.’This is one of Sedaka’s strongest albums ever, we’ll let you discover the rest of it…. Go to this Amazon link for a nice price and ENJOY! Also, you can keep in touch with Sedaka and his busy schedule – TV appearances like Huckabee , below — and regular touring at: NeilSedaka.com or listen here just for the melody of 01 Do You Remember but buy the entire CD !
Find the best vintage tshirts, retro t-shirts, funny t-shirts , custom tshirts and thousands of other mugs, posters and memorable items that make great gifts, promotional items, etc. Great prices at OldiesCoutnry.com
In her quiet way, Doris Day continues to spread joy and not only with her music and films. Residents and visitors – two legged and four-legged – of Carmel-By-The -Sea, California are in for a treat as they reside or visit in this beautiful beach town near Monterey. We were unexpected recipients of Day’s Happy Day Vibes late January.
After dining at the excellent Grill on Ocean Avenue, we asked our waiter about any local spots where we could hear some music. He said we were in luck, to walk down a couple blocks to the Cypress Inn. Surprisingly unfamiliar with this place, we came upon a beautiful 30s-era smalllish Mediterranean white stucco hotel. Once inside the front door we were greeted by a small group of people and dogs(!) in a living-room setting with a pianist and flugelhornist playing jazz . It was something rather unimaginable in this day an age. The pianist, who turned out to be the well-known Dick Whittington and fellow musician , whose name we failed to write down, were putting on what amounted to a private concert of world-class vintage jazz as we reclined on couches, sipping drinks. Everyone , both two legged and four legged , in the room couldn’t have been more friendly, including the artists themselves. The unplanned experience was like something from another time and place. I can’t wait to go back to see what next time will have in store. Whittington, a transplant from Berkeley, CA , plays every Friday and Saturday with various renown guest artists.
Just experiencing the charming Cypress Inn was an experience in itself but learning that Doris Day was part owner, as was her late musical son, Terry Melcher, made it even more special. The retiscent Day was no doubt talked into allowing old movie posters (Pajama Game, etc.) and record album covers to adorn the walls near ‘Terry’s Lounge, an elegant classy but non-ostentatious bar which now serves tribute to Melcher, who had quite a remarkable, if under-appreciated career of his own as producer, musician and entrepeneur. It’s obvious that Day does not run the Cypress solely for profit , judging by the quality of music and charm we witnessed and not the number of people who could squeeze into the place - a gift for humans to enjoy with their four-legged friends. Their may not be another venue like it anywhere. Cats as well as dogs are welcome to stay overnight in the Inn along with their folks.
Going from her prototypical 50s image as the wholesome girl next store to a later life filled with much sadness - a number of failed marriages including brutality and the loss and associated tragedies involving her devoted son Terry, who, by the way , helped run DDAF, Day no doubt takes solace in the animals and in the contributions she has made.
Doris Day may be in her late 80s but, in our book its only a number and as one will witness at SeniorCountry.com ( to come) with Jack LaLanne, Art Linkletter and others, people can be vibrant at any age while others’ lives are basically over at much younger ages.
Doris Day, we are told, rarely has made public appearances in many years. Though we wish she did , for our own selfish reasons, we can understand why this kind sole, who has helped so many others and not gotten back nearly what she deserves, must take life like the words of her signature song, ‘Que Sera Sera’. We can only wish her the very best for many more years doing what she does so well , while we continue listening to her beautiful music and watching those fun, uplifting movies. Perhaps this little mention will alert others to what Doris Day is about today, and perhaps bring some joy into their lives too, whether it be at the Cypress or somewhere in Carmel, or just enjoying the music and movies. Doris Day, one of a kind. Great to have her with us!
You’ve Found It – The One and Only OriginalROAD TO SUCCESS Motivational POSTER – Now ONLY $15 OR 2 FOR $20 Allegorical Cartoon from 1913 Etude Magazine. MAKES AN IDEAL PRESENT. 23″ X 17″ BLACK ON GLOSSY HEAVY PAPER STOCK , Mailed in tube. Click TWICE to enlarge
THE ROAD TO SUCCESS Motivational Poster, adapted to musical education from an original drawing issued by the National Cash Register Co. to point the road to business success. It originally appeared in THE ETUDE music magazine, published October 1913 and includes some of the unique language and jargons of the time. Great inspirational and motivational tool/gift for anyone, especially young people starting out, new businesses and anyone seeking success (aren’t we all?).. Just follow the ‘Road to Success,’ making sure not to fall prey to ‘bohemianism,’ shiftlessness’ or one of the many other pitfalls along the way. Don’t lose time at the ‘Hotel Know It All’ or ‘Mutual Admiration Society’ waiting for compliments such as ‘Caruso can’t touch you’ or ‘You’ll set the world on fire.’ Once you reach the ‘Gate of Ideals’ you’ve nearly reached the big zither(?) of success! Great promotion or gift. 23″ x 17 1/2″, black writing on white, glossy 80 lb. paper stock, comes rolled. Click image twice to blow up size:
‘This (literally) lyrical prize is achieved by first entering the Gate of Opportunity. People are running through, but some have already settled in to the sit-down life of ease and comfort in what looks like the Beer Garden of Bohemianism.
Some manage to pass by those delights to check in to the Hotel Know It All, because they hold to mottoes such as Nobody can tell me, or I don’t need to practice, or I’m a born genius, or yet: I don’t need system.
Similarly misguided cries are heard on the patio of the Mutual Admiration Society: You’re the Hit of the Age, You’ll Set the World on Fire, You’re a Wonder My Boy, or (my favourite): Caruso Can’t Touch You.
Those who avoid those three establishments of ill repute might still fall victim to the deep, dark well of Illiteracy, or the spinning, disorienting wheel of Conceit. A select few manage to board the train called Right System at the Railroad Station.
That doesn’t stop some from running along the rail track towards Success, only to succumb to the ugly hand of Vices, the spinning fan of Bad Habits (blowing its victims towards Oblivion), or the pitfall of Bad Reputation. Others fall prey to Charlatanism, or get tangled up in the webs of Jealousy and Do It Tomorrow.
Those who overcome all these perils will enter the gates of System. But while the train crosses a bridge across the river Failure, those on foot are threatened by the Cauldron of Misrepresentation, and tempted by Short Cuts.
Some do manage to wade across the river to the other side, but there must overcome Bad Temper, Carelessness, Shiftlessness and Bad Memory. Then there’s Lack of Preparation, a giant rock which the train can tunnel through effortlessly, while the surviving pedestrians must trek across it.
Sprees, Laziness and Bad Business Methods then still threaten them, until at last they come before two gates, the one for Weak Morals remaining forever closed, the Gate of Ideals open to the train (and some on foot).
Conclusion: you can be successful without adopting the Right System, but your chances are far smaller. And you’ll have to make a lot bigger effort to get there.’
Many thanks to Strange Maps for the above review.
The ROAD TO SUCCESS has since become very popular with young people starting out, new business, musicians and people in all walks of life. Purchase 1 poster for $15 or 2 for $20 plus $5 flalt rate for shipping and postage. Pay by PayPal or credit card (Visa,,Master Card or American Express). Entertainment Advertising copyrighted the poster in 1982 and is the only known, legal source for the poster. See to appreciate. An ideal gift for or any occassion. May pay 1) with Paypal or Credit Cards using handy menu above , 2) email your credit card info to succeed@roadtosuccess.us or 3) Call it in: 1-888-429-3272. Only available from Yellow Pages Coupons. SAVE ON SHIPPING! We only charge $5 flat rate shipping, regardless of the quantity you buy. Cannot guarantee delivery by certain date.usually 3-7 days.
Find one of the most under-rated doo-wop groups ever, which continues performing today in classic form. The Pentagon’s never had a hit go higher than #48 on the Billboard charts (‘To Be Loved,’ 1961) but they probably deserved alot better fate. Lead singer Joe C. Jones hails from the West Coast (San Bernardino) , which may be part of the problem, since the bulk of doo-wop comes from the East. Plus, when the song was recorded, in 1961. doo-wop was already fading from the music scene as surf and lighter sounds were taking its place.
We caught Jones and his new Pentagons at an a recent appearance in Livermore, Calfronial, after having seen him a few years earlier in Modesto. If there’s a better , more classic sounding ddo-wop group going today, hits or no hits, I’d like to hear them. ‘To Be Loved’ couild have gone Top 10 a few years earlier. Their other early songs, as found on their CD, Then and Now, are very strong, especially ‘I Wonder,’ ‘I’m In Love’ and ‘She’s Mine.’
The song writing is classic doo-wop, the singing impeccable.
Jones singing remains spectacular today; I can’t think of another lead singer who has maintained the quality and sound of his early records. He’s done well to find two backup singers that round out this talented trio. Why they haven’t been given a spot on PBS’ doo-wop series is a mystery. Will have to talk to that TJ Lubinski. Afterall, he’s all the way over in Pittsburg, which again, is part of the probelm. Anywy, check out this rare interview with San Bernardino-raised Joe Jones on LaneQuigley’s fine Rocket Radio show, then listen to a couple cuts before you go out and get the CD, Then and No w. Enjoy! Now that you’ve got a sample you can find the Pentagons CD ‘Then and After’ at Amazon by clicking here
BLUE RAIN: It’s not your 50s/60s oldies per se, but in Blake’s new CD he infuses much of the musical history he has witnessed since his breakout in 1964. Mister Blake, or Blake today, of Vancouver, had a regional hit in 1964, covering Dusty Springfield’s ‘I Only Want To Be With You.‘ After that, the music scene changed and most artists including Blake’s Canadian compatriots like Bobby Curtola (Fortune Teller) , Buddy Knox ((Party Doll) and even Paul Anka had to take day jobs for awhile to pay the bills. But,almost 5 decades later Blake has never forgotten his roots. He still would love nothing better than a hit record -er, CD or download. And, who knows. this could be the one… ‘Blue Rain’ has a wide appeal as it covers the various styles he has grown up with, including disco, dance, electronica, country and a good bit of roots ‘oldies’ woven in. Order the CD and read more about Blake at MisterBlake.com . By the way, it’s interesting that Blake chose Blue Rain as the title song, Blake’s early hero, Roy Orbison, had a minor hit with Blue Rain in the 60s, but it is a totally different song. If you listen closely to the CD you may hear some Roy Orbison references or samplings. Experience has surely helped Blake grow over the years as both singer and songwriter. All songs – written by Blake and Andy Smyth, except Jubilation – are strong, especially the opening three, in this writer’s opinion, namely ‘Blue Rain’, ‘I’m in Deep’, ‘Sex, Lies and Changing Times,‘ the latter which interestingly chronicles Blake’s and society’s wild ride through the past several decades. Also of special interest are the last songs on the CD which include Blake’s version of fellow Canadian Paul Anka’s ‘Jubilation’ and, an updated remake of Blake’s biggest hit, ‘I Only Want To Be With You.’ Sample one of the many fine songs , ‘Hit or Miss’ , at Amazon by clicking here.
The great Roy Orbison finally got his star on Hollywood’s Walk of Fame on Friday. It was about time!
Thanks to the persistence of his widow, the intrepid and beautiful Barbara, Orbison has lived on well after his death at age 52 in 1989.
The star was unveiled on Vine Street, right in front of the Capitol Records tower, and right next to Garth Brooks. Not bad.
With “Pretty Woman” playing in the background, Barbara and sons Alex and Roy Jr., and Roy’s son Wesley, received the proclamation from the city of Hollywood. Dan Aykroyd (who was there with gorgeous wife Donna Dixon) and T Bone Burnett each spoke about their love of Roy — who didn’t love Roy Orbison, that’s the question!
And Barbara Orbison, in accepting the citation, turned around from the mic and thanked the community of friends who’ve grown around her since Roy’s death: Jeff Lynne, Joe Walsh and his wife Marjorie, Olivia Harrison, Barbara Bach Ringo Starr, Jim Keltner, Phil Everly, Chris Isaak, Jonathan Clyde from the Beatles’ Apple Records, and so on.