Broadcasting, Music, Music Countdowns, Pop Music, Radio, Retro Rock

Sweet Saxophone Songs from Top 40 Golden Age

Without a doubt, my favorite instrument is a saxophone. There just seems to be something magical for me whenever I hear a sax played in a song or tune, no matter what type of musical genre that is being presented.

Up until a few years ago, I had never analyzed why I loved certain songs during my youth. Then around the turn of the 21^st century, I realized the common denominator with many of my beloved songs was the saxophone.

With this music blog message, I will be counting down what I consider to be my favorite songs featuring the saxophone. My selections are mostly tunes that I treasured when I was a teenager or as a young adult and I still love these songs in 2024.

My listing of superb sax songs all became hits on the Billboard Hot 100 chart during the golden age of top 40 radio. Obviously, that means that outstanding jazz ensembles, classical masterworks, and any other genre of music outside of pop, rock and soul, are excluded with this message.

To avoid any confusion, here are the criteria that I used to narrow down my listing of outstanding sax songs:

My selections were aired on Top 40 radio between the years 1965 and 1985.

Only songs released as 45-rpm singles are listed.

No album tracks used on countdown.

Saxophone needs to be prominently heard in a song.

Lead sax solos on instrumental breaks on songs with lyrical singing.

Countdown songs peaked at #40 or higher on the Billboard Hot 100.

Some groups that feature horn sections are not included in countdown: Blood Sweat & Tears, Earth Wind & Fire, Chicago and Tower of Power. All of these groups utilize saxophones, trumpets and trombones, but the sound of the sax generally isn’t elevated or distinguished among various brass instruments.

“25 or 6 to 4” by Chicago is an outstanding example of a saxophone being played in a song but the sax playing simply blends in with the other instruments and is not noticeable or pronounced on the tune.

As I surveyed the prominent sax hits, the countdown is entirely based on my opinions. My selections are songs that I deem to be culturally, historically, aesthetically significant, meaningful or relevant.

Before I start the sax countdown, I am sharing some other first-class saxophone songs in a couple of different categories. I am a fan of all of the extra songs that didn’t make my favorite sax songs all-time listing.

Songs played on Top 40 and AOR (album-oriented-radio) stations but not released as 45-rpm singles:

Turn the Page—Bob Seger
Us & Them—Pink Floyd
Scenes From an Italian Restaurant—Billy Joel
Jungleland—Bruce Springsteen

Bad to the Bone—George Thorogood & the Destroyers
Back in Time—Huey Lewis & the News
Moondance—Van Morrison

This next group are songs that I considered for the sax countdown but fell outside of my top 20 selections. Singles are not ranked and are placed in a random order:

Frankenstein—Edgar Winter Group
The One Thing—INXS
Time Passages—Al Stewart
Just the Two of Us—Grover Washington Jr. & Bill Withers
Careless Whisper—George Michael & Wham!

Who Can It Be Now—Men at Work
It’s Still Rock & Roll to Me—Billy Joel
Young Americans—David Bowie
Rio—Duran Duran
Urgent—Foreigner

I Can’t Go for That (No Can Do)—Hall and Oates
Caribbean Queen—Billy Ocean
Freeway of Love—Aretha Franklin
Get It Right Next Time—Gerry Rafferty
Let’s Dance—David Bowie

Long As I Can See the Light—Creedence Clearwater Revival
Waiting on a Friend—The Rolling Stones
Mercy Mercy Me (The Ecology)—Marvin Gaye
Ooo Baby Baby—Linda Ronstadt
The Heat is On—Glenn Frye

Without further ado, here is my top saxophone songs countdown:

20. Smooth Operator—Sade: 1985

Positions on Billboard Charts: #1 AC, #5 Hot 100, 62^nd Biggest Song of 1985

Co-written by Sade Adu and Ray St John. Saxophone artist Stuart Matthewman. From Sade debut album “Diamond Life.” Smooth jazz/R&B/pop. First top ten hit for Sade in the U.S.

19. Respect—Aretha Franklin: 1967

Peak Positions on Billboard Charts: #1 Hot 100, 13^th Biggest Song of 1967

Written by Otis Redding. Saxophone artists: King Curtis and Willie Bridges. From “I Never Loved a Man the Way I Love You” album. Signature song for Franklin. Ranked the #1 best song of all-time by Rolling Stone.

18. The Heart of Rock & Roll—Huey Lewis & the News: 1984

Peak Positions on Billboard Charts: #5 Hot 100, #4 Album Rock Tracks, 44^th Biggest Song of 1984.

Co-written by Huey Lewis and Johnny Colla. Saxophone artist Johnny Colla. The 2^nd of 4 top ten hits from 1983 “Sports” album. Pop/rock. Features excellent horn section.

17. Just the Way You Are—Billy Joel: 1978

Peak Positions on Billboard Charts: #1 AC, #3 Hot 100, 17^th Biggest Song of 1978

Written by Billy Joel. Saxophone artist Phil Woods. From album “The Stranger.” Pop ballad/smooth jazz. Received two Grammy Awards for “Record of the Year” and “Song of the Year” in 1979.

16. Modern Love—David Bowie: 1983

Peak Positions on Billboard Charts: #6 Mainstream Rock Tracks, #14 Hot 100

Written by David Bowie. Saxophone artists: Robert Aaron, Stan Harrison and Steve Elson. From the “Let’s Dance” album. Produced by Nile Rodgers. Video of song was a top MTV clip.

15. Money—Pink Floyd: 1973

Peak Positions on Billboard Charts: #13, Hot 100, #6 Mainstream Rock Tracks

Written by Roger Waters. Saxophone artist Dick Parry. From legendary 1973 “The Dark Side of the Moon” album. Outstanding chord progression on tune. First top 40 hit for Pink Floyd.

14. Deacon Blues—Steely Dan: 1978

Peak Positions on Billboard Charts: #19 Hot 100, 100^th Biggest Song of 1978

Co-written by Walter Becker and Donald Fagen. Saxophone artist: Pete Christlieb. From “Aja” album. Jazz rock. Considered a core yacht rock song. Larry Carlton and Lee Ritenour provide superb guitar playing on tune.

13. Fortress Around Your Heart—Sting: 1985

Peak Positions on Billboard Charts: #1 Top Rock Tracks, #8 Hot 100, 95^th Biggest Song of 1985

Written by Sting. Saxophone artist Branford Marsalis. Third hit single from “The Dream of the Blue Turtles” album. Rock, pop and jazz. Melodic tune and melancholy lyrics are featured on this song.

12. Brown Sugar—The Rolling Stones: 1971

Peak Positions on Billboard Charts: #1, Hot 100, 18^th Biggest Song of 1971

Co-written by Keith Richards and Mick Jagger. Saxophone artist: Bobby Keys. From “Sticky Fingers” album. Up tempo blues rock. Recorded at Muscle Shoals Sound Studio in Sheffield, Alabama.

11. Jazzman—Carole King: 1974

Peak Positions on Billboard Charts: #1 Ac, #2 Hot 100, 42^nd Biggest Song of 1974

Co-written by Carole King and David Palmer. Saxophone artist Tom Scott. From the “Wrap Around Joy” album. Pop/jazz. King has been quoted stating that saxophonist Curtis Amy was the inspiration of her ode for a jazz man.

10. Overkill—Men at Work: 1983

Peak Positions on Billboard Charts: #3 Hot 100, #3 Mainstream Rock Tracks, 54^th Biggest Song of 1983

Written by Colin Hay. Saxophone artist Greg Ham, member of Men at Work. From “Cargo” album. Third consecutive single by Australian band to reach #3 or higher on Billboard Hot 100. My second favorite single of 1983.

9.. What Does It Take (To Win Your Love)—Jr. Walker & the All Stars: 1969

Peak Positions on Billboard Charts: #1 Soul, #4 Hot 100, 20^th Biggest Song of 1969

Co-written by Johnny Bristol, Harvey Furqua and Vernon Bullock. Saxophone artist Junior Walker. From the “Home Cookin’” album. The Funk Brothers and the Detroit Symphony Orchestra played on tune. It was the number 1 biggest soul single of 1969, according to Billboard.

8.. The Logical Song—Supertramp: 1979

Peak Position on Billboard Charts: #6 Hot 100, 27^th Biggest Song of 1979

Written by Roger Hodgson. Saxophone artist John Helliwell. From the “Breakfast in America” album. Progressive pop rock. Biggest hit single for the British band. My second favorite single of 1979.

7. Touch Me—The Doors: 1969

Peak Position on Cash Box and Billboard Charts: #1 Top 100 Singles (C), #3 Hot 100 (B), 49^th Biggest Song of 1969 (B)

Written by Robby Krieger. Saxophone artist Curtis Amy. From “The Soft Parade” album. Progressive pop rock. One of the first top 40 hits that included a jazz solo. Paul Harris provided orchestral arrangements on song.

6.. Year of the Cat—Al Stewart: 1977

Peak Positions on Cash Box and Billboard Charts: #4 Top 100 Singles (C), #8 Hot 100 (B), 92^nd Biggest Song of 1977.

Co-written by Al Stewart and Peter Wood. Saxophone artist Phil Kenzie. From the “Year of the Cat” album. Progressive pop and classic yacht rock tune. My 3^rd favorite single of 1977.

5. It Don’t Come Easy—Ringo Starr: 1971

Peak Positions on Cash Box and Billboard Charts: #1 Top 100 Singles (C), #4 Hot 100 (B), 43^rd Biggest Song of 1971

Written by Richard Starkey (and uncredited to George Harrison). Saxophone artist Ron Cattermole. This first solo hit by the former Beatle didn’t appear on a Ringo Starr album until 1975’s “Blast From Your Past” LP. Produced by George Harrison. My second favorite single of 1971.

4. Sir Duke—Stevie Wonder: 1977

Peak Positions on the Billboard Charts: #1 Hot 100, #1 R&B/Soul, 18^th Biggest Song of 1977.

Written by Stevie Wonder. Saxophone artist Trevor Lawrence. From the “Songs in the Key of Life” album. Lyrics are a tribute to Sir Duke Ellington, jazz pianist, composer, and leader of his own renowned jazz orchestra. My second favorite single of 1977.

3. What’s Going On—Marvin Gaye

Peak Positions of Billboard Charts: #2 Hot 100, #2 Soul, 21^st Biggest Song of 1971

Co-written by Marvin Gaye, Al Cleveland and Renaldo Benson. Saxophone artist Eli Fountain. From the “What’s Going On” album. Signature song by Marvin Gaye. My #1 favorite single of 1971 and my third most-esteemed Motown song of all-time.

2. Born to Run—Bruce Springsteen: 1975

Peak Positions on Cash Box and Billboard Charts: #17 Top 100 Singles (C), #23 Hot 100 (B)

Written by Bruce Springsteen. Saxophone artist Clarence Clemons. From the ‘Born to Run” album. Signature song by Bruce Springsteen. My #1 favorite single of 1975 and the best song that I played on WROV Roanoke 49 years ago.

Baker Street—Gerry Raffety: 1978

Peak Positions on Cash Box and Billboard Charts: #1 Top 100 Singles (C), #2 Hot 100 (B), 26^th Biggest Song of 1978 (B)

Written by Gerry Rafferty. Saxophone artist: Raphael Ravenscroft. From the “City to City” album. Signature song by Gerry Rafferty. My second most-loved yacht rock song and #1 favorite single for 1978. “Baker Street” is definitely my top pick with this countdown of most-beloved sax songs.

That wraps up what I consider to be my favorite and best sax hits. I completely understand that my listing of songs in this category was written from my point of view and is subjective.

If you were creating a similar register of excellent sax hits, your tabulation may be totally different. What do you consider to be best preeminent saxophone singles? I hope you will comment below.

Listening to music from the golden age of Top 40 radio will always have a special place in my heart. I still cherish and fondly remember my favorite sax superfine singles of all-time.

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Music, Retro Rock, Music Countdowns, Radio, Broadcasting, Pop Music

We Are the World: The Greatest Night in Pop

“We are the world/We are the children/We are the ones who make a brighter day/So let’s start giving/There’s a choice we’re making/We’re saving our own lives/It’s true we’ll make a better day/Just you and me” Lyrics by Michael Jackson and Lionel Richie: “We Are the World” January 1985.

DJ Dave note: The day that I published this music blog article, March 7, 2024, was the 39th anniversary of when the USA for Africa single and video for “We Are the World” was released: 3/7/85.

One of the best musical documentaries that I have viewed this decade is “The Greatest Night in Pop.” The 2024 film focuses on a charity single called “We Are the World” which was recorded over the course of a 12-hour period during late January 1985.

I want to thank my friend Jerry English for giving me the idea and inspiration for this latest music blog message. I am grateful that Jerry encouraged me to watch “The Greatest Night in Pop” film last month and I highly recommend viewing this outstanding documentary.

While I won’t be giving a review of “The Greatest Night in Pop” movie, I will be sharing about certain aspects of the film, the recording of “We Are the World”, and the songs significance in modern music history.

I also will be communicating what I consider to be the best 1980s singles by 15 of the artists who had solo vocal lines within the 1985 charity song. Every song that I will be listing was a major pop hit during the 80s.

“We Are the World” was written by Michael Jackson and Lionel Richie, with Quincy Jones and Michael Omartian producing the song which was recorded by a supergroup of pop artists called USA for Africa.

According to “The Greatest Night in Pop” documentary, over 40 pop artists assembled at A&M Recording Studios in Hollywood, California, to record final vocal tracks for the “We Are the World” song.

Michael Jackson arrived first for this historic musical event around 8:00 pm. Soon after scores of other artists came on the scene, with many coming directly from the American Music Awards happening that evening, including the host of the annual music ceremony Lionel Richie.

Around 10:30 pm, Quincy Jones gathered the vocal artists and musicians together to start the recording process. This assembled multitude worked throughout the night during their marathon recording session completing the final audiotape at 8:00 am.

Six weeks later on March 7, 1985, “We Are the World” was released as a single. The song was an immediate hit: Reaching number 1 on three Billboard charts: R&B Singles chart, Hot Adult Contemporary Tracks listing and the Hot 100 Pop singles survey, where it spent 4 weeks at the top spot.

After “We Are the World” was released, it was honored by multiple music awards. In 1986, the song achieved 4 Grammy Awards. The single also received awards by MTV for its music video, a People’s Choice Award and an American Music Award.

The original inspiration for artists to come together and record a song for African famine relief came from Harry Bellafonte. He is quoted on the USA for Africa website about the lasting effect of the “We Are the World” single:

“In 1985, the music industry and the world came together in an unprecedented outpouring of generosity in response to the tragic famine wreaking havoc in Africa at the time. The biggest names in music ‘checked their egos at the door’ to create what was and still is a worldwide phenomenon.”

Bellafonte continues: “The recording of the original We Are the World sold more than 7 million records worldwide. The worldwide sale of that record generated more than $60 million which has been used to assist Africa and Africans affected by the famine and other critical issues since 1985. The song became and remains the people’s anthem and continues to be revered and loved globally.”

Below are artists who sang solo parts on the “We Are the World” song:

Lionel Richie
Stevie Wonder
Paul Simon,
Kenny Rogers,
James Ingram

Tina Turner
Billy Joel
Michael Jackson
Diana Ross,
Dionne Warwick

Willie Nelson
Al Jarreau
Bruce Springsteen
Kenny Loggins
Steve Perry

Daryl Hall
Huey Lewis
Cyndi Lauper
Kim Carnes
Bob Dylan
Ray Charles

For the remainder of this message, I will convey what I consider to be the best and most memorable 80s pop hits, by 15 of the artists who had solo parts on the “We Are the World” recording. The songs that I have selected were all major top 40 singles from 1980 through 1989.

The top 15 songs and artists that I have picked are entirely based on my opinions. My selections are singles that I deem to be culturally, historically, aesthetically significant, meaningful or relevant.

In researching historical musical data for this article, I used “The Billboard Book of Top 40 Hits” by Joel Whitburn for documentation. The placement of singles on the countdown derives solely on my favorability of songs and not on how I rate each of the artists listed.

Now without further ado, here is my countdown of 15 outstanding singles from “We Are the World” singers:

15. That’s What Friends Are For—Dionne Warwick: 1985

Positions on Billboard Charts: #1 Hot 100, The #1 biggest single of 1986

That’s What Friends Are For” was written by Burt Bacharach and Carole Bayer Sager and was recorded as a charity single for AIDS research and prevention. The 45-rpm record label says: “Dionne and Friends” who were Elton John, Gladys Knight, and Stevie Wonder. Won two Grammy Awards in 1986.

14. Lady—Kenny Rogers: 1980

Positions on Billboard charts: #1 Hot 100, 3^rd biggest song of 1986

Lionel Richie wrote and produced “Lady” for Kenny Rogers. It was the first song of the 80s to chart on all four Billboard singles charts – Country, Hot 100, Adult Contemporary and Hot Soul. Rated as the 10^th biggest single in the 80s decade. Biggest selling song in Rogers’ career.

13. On the Road Again—Willie Nelson: 1980

Positions on Billboard Charts: #1 Hot Country, #7 Adult Contemporary, #20 Hot 100

Country crossover hit. Written by Willie Nelson for the movie “Honeysuckle Rose.” The artist also starred as the lead actor in the 1980 film. Won a Grammy Award for “Best Country Song.” Became the 9^th number one country hit for the singer-songwriter and is considered a signature song for Nelson.

12. Upside Down—Diana Ross: 1980

Positions on Billboard Charts: #1 Hot 100, 18^th Biggest song of 1980

“Upside Down” was written and produced by Nile Rodgers and Bernard Edwards, who were members of the R&B band Chic in 1980. Big international hit for Diana Ross. Billboard ranks single at #80 on their “Hot 100, 60^th Anniversary” chart.

11. Betty Davis Eyes—Kim Carnes: 1981

Position on Billboard Charts: #1, Hot 100, The #1 biggest single of 1981

Written in 1973 by Jackie De Shannon and Donna Weiss. Signature song for Kim Cranes. Single spent nine non-consecutive weeks at #1 on the Billboard Hot 100. Won 2 Grammys Awards for Song of the Year” and “Record of the Year.”

10. Footloose—Kenny Loggins: 1984

Peak Positions on Billboard Charts: #1 Hot 100, 4^th Biggest Song of 1984

Kenny Loggins co-wrote “Footloose” with Dean Pitchford for a 1984 movie that shares the same name as the Loggins’ song. It was the biggest selling single for the “yacht rock” music maestro. The first of two number 1 hits from the “Footloose” film (“Let’s Hear It for the Boy” by Denise Williams was second #1 single from movie).

9. Girls Just Want to Have Fun–Cyndi Lauper: 1984

Peak Positions on Billboard Charts: #2 Hot 100, 15^th Biggest Song of 1984

Singer-songwriter Cyndi Lauper wrote “Girls Just Want to Have Fun” which was her debut single from the album “She So Unusual.” Has become a feminist anthem and signature song for Lauper. Won top honors with a MTV Music Video Award and an American Video Award for this successful clip.

8. You Can Call Me Al—Paul Simon: 1986

Peak positions with Billboard Charts: #15 Adult Contemporary, #23 Hot 100

A world-wide hit for singer-songwriter Paul Simon who penned this song for the 2-time Grammy winning album “Graceland.” Artist used African musicians on single, mixing pop, rock, jazz and zydeco, with musical styles that originated in South Africa. Biggest hit for Simon during the 80s.

7. What’s Love Got to Do with It—Tina Turner: 1984

Peak Positions on Billboard Charts: #1 Hot 100, 2^nd Biggest Song of 1984

Comeback song for Tina Turner and became her biggest selling single. “What’s Love Got to Do with It” received 3 Grammy Awards: for “Record of the Year”, “Song of the Year” and “Best Female Pop Vocal Performance.” Was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 1989.

6. Oh, Sherrie—Steve Perry: 1984

Peak Positions on Billboard Charts: #3 Hot 100, 33^rd Biggest Song of 1984

First solo single for Steve Perry from the album “Street Talk.” Artist was still a member of Journey when “Oh, Sherrie” was a hit song during the summer of ’84. Was the biggest selling solo single by the outstanding rock vocalist.

5. Born in the USA—Bruce Springsteen: 1984

Peak Positions on Billboard Charts: #9 Hot 100, 92^nd Biggest Hit of 1984

Title track from the Bruce Springsteen 1983 album “Born in the USA.” One of the best-known songs by the Boss. The third of 7 top ten singles on the Billboard Hot 100 from legendary LP (1983-1985). The song is still a staple on classic rock radio stations here in 2024.

4. We Didn’t Start the Fire—Billy Joel: 1989

Peak Positions on Billboard Charts: #1 Hot 100, 35^th Biggest Song of 1989

Billy Joel wrote the lyrics of “We Didn’t Start the Fire” which document historical, political, cultural and sports highlights between the years 1948 and 1989. The “Piano Man” sings in a rapid paced manner that calls for multiple listens to comprehend all of the historical events mentioned. Joel still performs this song as the first encore selection at every one of his 2024 concerts.

3. The Power of Love—Huey Lewis: 1985

Positions on Billboard Charts: #1 Hot 100, 15^th Biggest Song of 1985

“The Power of Love” was written by Huey Lewis, along with Lewis Hayes and Johnny Colla for the 1985 film “Back to the Future. The single is backed up by Lewis’ band the News and became that band’s first #1 chart topping song. It was one of the biggest singles from the summer of ’85.

2. All Night Long (All Night)—Lionel Richie: 1983

Peak Positions on Billboard Charts: #1 Hot 100, 12^th Biggest Song of 1984

The most successful solo single by the former lead singer of the Commodores. Written by Lionel Richie, “All Night Long” has a diversity of musical elements: pop, rock, and R&B, mixed with a Caribbean/African beat. This Richie signature song is still a favorite to play at wedding receptions this decade.

Man in the Mirror—Michael Jackson: 1988

Peak Positions on Billboard Charts: #1 Hot 100, 21^st Biggest Song of 1988

My number 1 song on the countdown is by the “King of Pop” Michael Jackson. “Man in the Mirror” was written by Glen Ballard and Siedah Garrett, produced by Quincy Jones and Jackson.

The Andraé Crouch Choir recorded background gospel vocals on the song and it became Jackson’s 4^th consecutive single from the 1987 “Bad” album to peak at number 1 on the Billboard Hot 100.

The message of the lyrics offer encouragement: “I’m starting with the man in the mirror/I’m asking him to change his ways/And no message could have been any clearer/If you wanna make the world a better place/Take a look at yourself and then make a change.”

“Man in the Mirror” is my favorite Michael Jackson solo song of all-time and I am glad to proclaim this excellent song to be my number 1 single of outstanding pop hit by artists who had solo vocals on “We Are the World.”

That wraps up my countdown on what I consider to be the 15 best singles from the “We Are the World” solo singers. I completely understand that my listing of 80s singles in this category was written from my point of view and is subjective.

If you were creating a similar register of excellent 80s pop hits by the same artists, your tabulation may be totally different. What do you consider to be the best singles by the “We Are the World” pop stars? I hope you will comment below.

In closing, I must ask this question: Is the recording in late January 1985 of “We Are the World” the greatest night in pop? Obviously, the answer to this query is debatable.

I will say that the assembly of over 40 artists for “We Are the World” has to be considered the greatest gathering ever of pop music superstars with the recording of this historic session. It may never be duplicated again.

Will there ever be another version of fundraising similar to what pop artists did with “We Are the World” in 1985? I am hoping that type of event will happen this century. Rock on!

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Artist Profiles, Broadcasting, Music, Music Countdowns, Radio, Retro Rock

Outstanding Trio Rock Bands from the 20th Century

What are the greatest rock bands in the history of popular music that featured trios?

With my latest music blog message, I will be counting down what I consider to be the ten best rock band trios from the 20^th century from 1965 through 1985.

Before I share the countdown of the ten bands that I have selected for this topic, I need to state what constitutes a rock trio band.

Basically, a rock trio band features all three members playing instruments: normally an electric guitar, an electric bass guitar and drums. In some other trios, keyboards are substituted for either a guitar or a drum set.

At the same time that instruments are being played by all members, one or more of those same individuals will provide singing on songs that have vocals. These bands tend to have a full, rich sound with just three members.

The fresh electric sounds of British Invasion bands in the mid 60s such as the Beatles, the Rolling Stones and the Who, gave inspiration to those wanting to play that type of music with just 3 musicians. Soon thereafter, many new rock trio bands started forming in the United States and Great Britain.

As I did research for the topic of rock trio bands, I realized there were other types of musical groups with just 3 members. I classify these artists as vocal pop groups, that featured 3 singers that didn’t play musical instruments.

Below are some outstanding 3-person vocal groups from the 60s and 70s. These trios performed in a variety of musical genres from pop, rock, folk and soul.

The Supremes
Three Dog Night
The Bee Gees

Peter Paul and Mary
The Isley Brothers
Martha and the Vandellas

While all of the above 3-person vocal groups produced excellent music, they are not power trio rock bands and have been excluded from consideration on my countdown. Maybe I will write and publish a separate article on outstanding 60s and 70s trio vocal groups in the future? Stay tuned.

Here are the criteria I used in compiling my countdown of best rock trio bands:

Majority of album chart success between the years of 1965 and 1985.

Since my home country is in America, my rankings are based solely on what bands achieved in the United States.

In researching historical musical data for this article, I used Billboard and Cash Box magazines for documentation.

I also gathered artist information from the liner notes of vinyl albums that I still own in 2024.

Bands received significant airplay on Top 40 and Album Oriented Rock (AOR) radio in the U.S. from mid 60s through to the mid 80s.

Some groups listed in countdown may have had more than 3 members at some point but stayed as a trio during a majority of the band’s existence.

I will document main members of trio bands and may leave out part time personnel and/or people in a band whom stayed for short periods of time.

Please note that my ranking of albums and songs within the countdown of best rock trio bands is entirely based on my own opinion. My rating system reflects directly upon music that I deem to be culturally, historically, aesthetically significant, meaningful or relevant.

Without further ado, my countdown of the ten best trio rock bands begins:

10. James Gang

Main Lineup: Joe Walsh (guitars, lead vocals), Dale Peters (bass) and Jim Fox (drums). Widely acclaimed album: “James Gang Rides Again.” My #1 top-rated song: “Walk Away.” Second favorite track: “Funk #49.”

Active years as a trio: 1968-1974. The front man & lead singer for American band James Gang was Joe Walsh. He left the classic rock trio in 1971 for a solo career. Walsh later joined Eagles band during late 1975 and still is a member in 2024. He and his Eagles group were inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 1998.

9. Emerson Lake & Palmer

Main Lineup: Keith Emerson (keyboards), Greg Lake (Vocals and guitar) and Carl Palmer (drums and percussion). Widely acclaimed album: “Pictures at an Exhibition.” My #1 top-rated song: “Nut Rocker.” Second favorite track: “Lucky Man.”

Active years as a trio: 1970-1979, 1991-1999. Emerson Lake & Palmer (ELP) were an English progressive rock juggernaut. The band mixed genres of jazz, classical, along with pop-rock sounds together and became one of the leading bands for experimental music during the 70s.

8. Grand Funk Railroad

Main Lineup: Mark Farner (lead vocals, guitarist, keyboards), Mel Schacher (bassist) and Don Brewer (drummer and vocalist). Widely acclaimed album: “Closer to Home.” My #1 top-rated song: “We’re an American Band.” Second favorite track: “I’m Your Captain (Closer to Home).”

Active years as trio: 1969-1976. Grand Funk Railroad (GFR) was founded in Flint, Michigan during 1969. Labeled as arena rock, the group toured intensively and the band’s live shows were popular among concert attendees. (GFR) was inducted into the Michigan Rock and Roll Legends Hall of Fame in 2015.

7. Rush

Main Lineup: Geddy Lee (bass guitar, keyboards, vocalist), Alex Lifeson (guitar) and Neil Peart (drums, percussion and songwriter). Widely acclaimed album: “Moving Pictures.” My #1 top-rated song: “Tom Sawyer.” Second Favorite track: “New World Man.”

Active years as trio: 1974-2015. Inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2013. Canadian band formed in Toronto, Ontario. Musically, group is considered progressive rock. Band also is known for synthesizer pop and hard rock blues. Rush produced excellent musicianship and top-notch lyrical compositions during the 20^th century.

6. Genesis

Main Lineup: Tony Banks (keyboards, acoustic guitar), Mike Rutherford (electric guitar, bass) and Phil Collins (Drums, percussion and vocalist). Widely acclaimed album: “Abacab.” My #1 top-rated song: “Abacab” Second favorite track: “No Reply at All.”

Active years as a trio: 1977-1996. Genesis is considered as a pioneer progressive rock band. This English group actually started with 5 members but paired down to just 3 fellows in 1977. All 3 guys recorded side projects in the 80s, with Collins having the most success, followed by Rutherford (Mike + The Mechanics). Band was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2010.

5. ZZ Top

Main Lineup: Billy Gibbons (guitarist and vocalist), Frank Beard (drums) and Dusty Hill (bassist and vocalist). Widely acclaimed album: “Tres Hombres.” My #1 top-rated song: “La Grange.” Second favorite track: “Sharp Dressed Man.”

Active years as a trio: 1969 to 2021. The 2004 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductees started in Houston, Texas. During the 70s, this southern rock band played a combination of hard rock and blues. During the MTV 80s, ZZ Top switched into a synthesizer pop-rock sound which brought the band much success. The band still performed as a trio until Hill’s death in 2021.

4. The Jimi Hendrix Experience

Main Lineup: Jimi Hendrix (guitarist and vocalist), Noel Redding (bass guitar) and Mitch Mitchell (drums). Widely acclaimed album: “Are You Experienced.” My #1 top-rated song: “All Along the Watchtower.” Second favorite track: “Purple Haze.”

Active Years as a trio: 1966-1970: Jimi Hendrix was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall in 1992, along with the other members of his Experience trio, drummer Mitch Mitchell and bassist Noel Redding. Although his mainstream music career was only 4 years long, many music critics consider Hendrix to be the greatest guitarist of all-time.

3. Crosby Stills & Nash

Main Lineup: David Crosby (guitarist, singer-songwriter), Graham Nash (singer-songwriter, keyboardist and guitarist) and Stephen Stills (lead guitarist, bass guitar, percussion, singer-songwriter). Widely acclaimed album: “Crosby Stills & Nash.” My #1 top-rated song: “Suite: Judy Blue Eyes.” Second favorite track: “Marrakesh Express.”

Active years as a trio: 1969-1970, 1973-1974, 1976-2015: Crosby, Stills & Nash (CSN) were a superb folk-rock supergroup and in 1997 became members of the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. During 1970-1971 and occasionally at other select times, Neil Young joined CSN to form a quartet. The CSN trio contributed outstanding vocal harmonies and all were first-rate singer-songwriters.

2. The Police

Main Lineup: Sting (singer-songwriter, bass guitarist, main vocalist), Stewart Copeland (drums, percussion) and Andy Summers (guitarist). Widely acclaimed album: “Synchronicity.” My #1 top-rated song: “Every Little Thing She Does is Magic.” Second favorite track: “Roxanne.”

Active years as a trio: 1977-1984: English band formed in London during 1977. This trio combined rock, pop, reggae, jazz and punk together. Considered a new wave band in the late 70s. The Police became one of the biggest bands during the 80s and got into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2003.

1. Cream

Main Lineup: Jack Bruce (bassist chief vocalist and songwriter), Eric Clapton (guitarist, songwriter) and Ginger Baker (drums). Widely acclaimed album: “Disraeli Gears.” My #1 top-rated song: “Sunshine of Your Love.” Second favorite track: “White Room.”

Active years as a trio: 1966–1969: Cream is among the first supergroups in rock music history. Eric Clapton, Ginger Baker and Jack Bruce were pioneers musically mixing blues and hard rock sounds for trios. This British band reformed temporarily in 1993 when the group were inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. Without a doubt, Cream is my number one best power rock trio of all-time.

That wraps up what I consider to be my favorite and best top trio rock bands. I completely understand that my listing of songs and albums in this category was written from my point of view and is subjective.

If you were creating a similar register of excellent trio rock bands, your tabulation may be totally different. What do you consider to be the best rock groups with just 3 members from the years 1965 through 1985? I hope you will comment below.

I still love listening rock trio bands on the radio or at home on my home stereo system. Music from the groups in my countdown will always have a special place in my heart. Long live the outstanding music of classic rock trio bands. Rock on!

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Broadcasting, Music, Music Countdowns, Radio, Retro Rock

1983 Outstanding Hit Singles and MTV Videos

Some music historians have called 1983 the last great year for pop music. Billboard magazine lists that 60 percent of the Hot 100 singles that charted 40 years ago were in the pop rock category.

With my latest music blog message, I will be counting down what I consider to be my favorite singles and videos that MTV aired during 1983.

The genesis of pop music’s explosion in the 80s goes back to the demise of disco music being aired on Top 40 stations. In lieu of playing disco hits, radio playlists consisted of mainly pop, rock, easy listening ballads and country crossover singles.

In my hometown of Roanoke, Virginia, K92 FM 92.3 was the number 1 rated radio station. This hot, hip and happening Top 40 outlet remained the biggest and most listened to station throughout the 80s decade. Below is an audio clip of K92’s David Lee Michaels from July 1981.

Elsewhere in the early 80s, many top 40 programmers and consultants rebranded their stations with a new format name: “Contemporary Hit Radio” (CHR). Most of these CHR outlets were on the FM dial.

During 1981, radio consultant Mike Joseph was hired by WCAU FM Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, to set a new tone for that radio station. Joseph created the “Hot Hits” radio format for WCAU and is credited as revitalizing CHR/Top 40 radio for FM stations in the 80s.

One of the DJs on WCAU FM was Terry Young, who began his career in 1973 working at WROV 1240 AM Roanoke. Below is an audio clip of Young on WCAU FM in 1983, provided by Ellis Feaster via YouTube.

1983 also saw the launch of CHR Z100 New York. This legendary radio station was programmed by DJ Scott Shannon and went from “worst to first” with ratings in just 60 days. I am sharing an audio clip of Shannon on Z100’s third day on the air, August 4, 1983. Aircheck provided by Ellis Feaster via YouTube.

The rise of pop music can also be attributed to the advent of airing music video clips on cable TV. Music Television (MTV) debuted on August 1, 1981 and MTV totally revolutionized how music was heard and seen by folks in the United States.

During the first 18 months of MTV, the cable music channel aired an “Album Oriented Rock” (AOR) format. One of the chief criticisms of MTV during this time period was the lack of music videos by Black artists being played on the cable music channel.

It wasn’t until March 1983, that Michael Jackson’s video for “Billie Jean” was added and became the first video by a Black artist to be aired in heavy rotation on MTV. In my humble opinion, Jackson’s “Billie Jean” clip is the number one best and most influential music video that MTV aired during the first two years in operation.

Soon after, MTV added “Little Red Corvette” by Prince into its hot rotation. Then “Beat It” by Michael Jackson and “1999” from Prince were regularly aired on MTV. Finally Black music had a place on the cable music channel.

Probably the most renowned video that MTV played in 1983 was from the “King of Pop” Michael Jackson and his single “Thriller.” This clip was released during the fall of ‘83 and set the standard for well-produced music videos during the 80s decade.

Other influential video clips aired on MTV during 1983:

Hungry like the Wolf—Duran Duran
Rio—Duran Duran

Every Breathe You Take—The Police
King of Pain—The Police

Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This)—The Eurythmics
Total Eclipse of the Heart—Bonnie Tyler

Sharp Dressed Man—ZZ Top
Modern Love—David Bowie

For the remainder of this message, I will be counting down what I consider to be the best CHR singles of 1983. The countdown is entirely based on my opinions. My selections are songs that I deem to be culturally, historically, aesthetically significant, meaningful or relevant.

In researching 1983 historical musical data for this article, I used 3 sources: Billboard and Cash Box magazines, along with MTV, for documentation.

Before staring the countdown, below are 1983 singles that I consider to be excellent songs but fell outside my top 25 selections. These selections are not ranked and are placed in a random order:

Der Kommissar—After the Fire
The Safety Dance—Men Without Hats
Too Shy—Kajagoogoo
Jeopardy—The Greg Kihn Band
She Works Hard for the Money—Donna Summer

Straight from the Heart—Bryan Adams
I Know There’s Something Going On—Frida
99 Luftballons—Nena
Shock the Money—Peter Gabriel
Photograph—Def Leppard

Back on the Chain Gang—The Pretenders
Our House—Madness
Lawyers in Love—Jackson Browne
Heart to Heart—Kenny Loggins
Rock the Casbah—The Clash

Come Dancing—The Kinks
Breaking Us in Two—Joe Jackson
You Got Lucky—Tom Pretty & the Heartbreakers
Maneater— Daryl Hall & John Oates
Maniac—Michael Sembello

Electric Avenue—Eddie Grant
Tell Her About It—Billy Joel
Islands in the Stream—Kenny Rogers & Dolly Parton
(Keep Feeling) Fascination—The Human League
True—Spandau Ballet

Without further ado, my quality 1983 CHR singles countdown begins:

25. Love is a Battlefield—Pat Benatar

Peak Positions on Billboard Charts: #1 Mainstream Rock: #5 Hot 100

Up tempo song, mixing traditional rock instruments with electronic dance music. Pat Benatar won a Grammy Award for “Best Female Rock Vocal Performance” with this single.

24. Heart and Soul—Huey Lewis & the News

Peak Positions on Billboard Charts: #1 Top Rock Tracks, #8 Hot 100

First single from the 1983 “Sports” album which produced 5 top 20 hits. Nominated for a Grammy Award in the category of “Best Rock Vocal, Group.”

23. China Girl—David Bowie

Peak Positions on Billboard Charts: #3 Mainstream Rock, #10 Hot 100

Written by Iggy Pop and David Bowie. Co-produced by Nile Rodgers. Second top 10 hit from the “Let’s Dance” album. Clip of the song won an MTV video award for “Best Male Video.”

22. Dirty Laundry—Don Henley

Peak Positions on Billboard Charts: #1 Top Rock Tracks, #3 Hot 100

First solo hit for Don Henley. An all-star group of musicians play on single: Timothy B. Schmit, Joe Walsh, Steve Lukather, Danny Kortchmar, and Steve Porcaro. Lyrics portray callousness and insensitivity of network news anchors.

21. Beat It—Michael Jackson

Peak Positions on Billboard Charts: #1 Hot 100, 5^th Biggest Song of 1983

The “King of Pop” scored a massive hit with this rock song. Features a guitar solo by Eddie Van Halen. Single sold 11 million copies world-wide. Won two Grammy Awards: for “Record of the Year” and “Best Male Rock Vocal Performance.”

20. Stand Back—Stevie Nicks

Peak positions on Billboard Charts: #2 Top Rock Tracks, #5 Hot 100

Stevie Nicks penned this new wave, synth rock hit. Prince played synthesizer during recording but was uncredited on the track. The Fleetwood Mac singer-songwriter continues to perform “Stand Back” during solo concerts here in 2023.

19. She’s a Beauty—The Tubes

Peak Positions on Billboard Charts: #1 Top Rock Tracks, #10 Hot 100

Single was co-written by Tubes band member Fee Waybill, producer David Foster and Toto guitarist Steve Lukather. Biggest top 40 hit for the San Francisco-based rock band.

18. Twilight Zone—Golden Earring

Peak Positions on Billboard Charts: #1 Mainstream Rock, #10 Hot 100

Golden Earring’s guitarist George Kooymans wrote this driving rock single. One of two top 40 hits by the Dutch band (“Radar Love” reached #13 in 1974).

17. Let’s Dance—David Bowie

Peak Positions on Billboard Charts: #1 Hot 100, 18^th Biggest Song of 1983

David Bowie wrote song and co-produced the track with Nile Rodgers. Incorporates pop, rock, funk and new wave with a superb bass line. Diverse musical instruments on track: trumpet, saxophone, guitar, woodblocks, congas and tambourine.

16. Mr. Roboto—Styx

Peak Positions on Billboard Charts: #3 Mainstream Rock, #3 Hot 100

Track is from “Kilroy Was Here” a concept rock opera album by Styx. Written by band member Dennis DeYoung, who sang lead vocals and played keyboards on single.

15. Owner of a Lonely Heart—Yes

Peak Positions on Billboard Charts: #1 Hot 100, #1 Mainstream Rock

The band Yes switched up their progressive rock sound on this chart-topping song. Jon Anderson provides lead vocals. Tune is a mixture of pop, rock, electronic dance music.

14. Uptown Girl—Billy Joel

Peak Positions on Billboard Charts: #5 Hot 100, #8 Top Rock Tracks

A tribute to Frank Valli and the Four Seasons. Video featured Christie Brinkley, who married Billy Joel two years later in 1985.

13. She Blinded Me with Science—Thomas Dolby

Peak Positions on Billboard Charts: #5 Hot 100, #6 Top Rock Tracks

Quirky new wave synth-pop. Thomas Dolby was also a producer and session musician. The artist is considered a one hit wonder in the U.S.

12. Africa—Toto

Peak Positions on Billboard Charts: #1 Hot 100, #5 Adult Contemporary

Toto’s band members David Paich and Jeff Porcaro co-wrote song. Signature song by group. Rolling Stone rates “Africa” as one of the “Greatest songs of all-time.”

11. Down Under—Men at Work

Peak Positions on Billboard Charts: #1 Hot 100, #1 Top Rock Tracks

Considered a patriotic song in Men at Work’s home country of Australia. Co-written by band members Colin Hay and Ron Strykert. Second consecutive number 1 single on Billboard Hot 100.

10. Burning Down the House—Talking Heads

Peak Positions on Billboard Charts: #6 Top Rock Tracks, #9 Hot 100

New York City rock band. Biggest top 40 hit for group. Single is a combination of pop, new wave, art rock and funk. David Byrne is lead singer.

9. Allentown—Billy Joel

Peak Positions on Billboard Charts: #17 Hot 100, 43^rd Biggest Song of 1983

Billy Joel’s chronicle with the decline of blue-collar manufacturing in Rust Belt America. This pop rock tune was one of four top 20 singles for the “Piano Man” during ’83.

8. Synchronicity II—The Police

Peak Position on Billboard: #16 Hot 100

Powerful driving rock single written by band member Sting. Lyrics depicts the theory of synchronicity, a concept by Swiss psychiatrist Carl Jung. The third of four top 20 hits in 1983 by the Police.

7. Separate Ways (Worlds Apart)—Journey

Peak Positions on Billboard Charts: #1 Top Rock Tracks, #8 Hot 100

Co-written by Jonathan Cain and Steve Perry of Journey. Up-tempo rock with a Motown/R&B groove. Song is still a crowd favorite during Journey concerts during 2023.

6. Steppin’ Out—Joe Jackson

Peak Positions on Billboard Charts: #4 Adult Contemporary, #6 Hot 100

New wave, synth pop, rock single. Has a catchy tune. Biggest selling hit in the U.S. for Joe Jackson. Lyrics celebrate driving/cruising around town with a lover or significant other relationship.

5. Human Nature—Michael Jackson

Peak Positions on Billboard Charts: #2 Adult Contemporary, #7 Hot 100

Produced by Quincy Jones. Members of the band Toto are the musicians on this smooth yacht rock single. Michael Jackson’s fifth consecutive top 10 ten hit from the biggest album of 1983: “Thriller.” An outstanding melodic ballad.

4. Major Tom (Coming Home)—Peter Schilling

Peak Positions on Billboard Chart: Number 2 Dance, #14 Hot 100

Major Tom was a character in David Bowie’s “Space Oddity” single. German songwriter Peter Schilling created an unofficial response to Bowie’s character with this 80s hit. Tune has a pulsating synth-pop beat and was popular on dance floors in the U.S.

3. The One Thing—INXS

Peak Positions on Billboard Chart: #2 Top Rock Charts

MTV introduced Australian rock group INXS to America. Michael Hutchence, and Andrew Farriss of the band co-wrote “The One Thing.” The first U.S. hit for INXS paved the way for international success during the mid 80s.

2. Overkill—Men at Work

Peak Positions on Billboard Charts: #3 Hot 100, #3 Mainstream Rock

Written by Men at Work band member Colin Hay. This melodic tune features outstanding saxophone playing by Greg Ham. Third consecutive top 3 U.S. smash hit by the Australian band.

New Year’s Day—U2

Peak Positions on Billboard Chart: #2 Top Rock Tracks

My top selection on this countdown is “New Year’s Day” by U2. The lyrics for this song are credited to all four members of the Irish band.

The “New Year’s Day” single was the first track from U2’s 1983 “War” album. Subject matter of the song was inspired by the Polish Solidarity movement of the early 80s.

Musically, it features a distinctive bassline by Adam Clayton, melodic piano and guitar playing from the Edge, superb drumming by Larry Mullen Jr. and strong, heartfelt vocals from Bono.

Without a doubt, I proclaim that “New Year’s Day” as my favorite U2 song of all-time. And the band’s first single to chart in the U.S. on the Billboard Hot 100, is my number 1 best CHR single of 1983.

That wraps up what I consider to be my favorite and best top CHR hits for 1983. I completely understand that my listing of songs in this category was written from my point of view and is subjective.

If you were creating a similar register of excellent 1983 singles, your tabulation may be totally different. What do you consider to be best preeminent singles from ’83? I hope you will comment below.

Listening to music on CHR radio and watching music video clips from MTV during 1983, will always have a special place in my heart. I still cherish and fondly remember the excellent music of 40 years ago. Rock on!

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Broadcasting, Music, Music Countdowns, Radio, Retro Rock

1972 Quality Top 40 Singles

What were the best singles aired on Top 40 radio during 1972?

Obviously, there are no definitive answers to my question. If I asked the above inquiry to 100 folks, I would surely receive one hundred different responses.

With my latest music blog message, I will be counting down what I consider to be my favorite Top 40 singles of 1972.

I have fond memories of listening to Top 40 radio in ’72 as I turned 17 years old that year in Roanoke, Virginia.

During daylight hours, I exclusively listened to Roanoke’s legendary WROV 1240 AM. This station featured a Top 40 format and was the number one top-ranked radio outlet in my city.

Bart Prater and Larry Bly were my two favorite WROV DJs 51 years ago. I also remember hearing DJs Ron Tompkins, Charlie Bell and Phil Beckman on the station nicknamed the “Rock of Roanoke” back during 1972.

Link above: Larry Bly and Bart Prater aircheck on WROV Roanoke in October 1972. Courtesy of WROV History Website/Pat Garrett

When WROV reduced power at sundown, I would listen to 3 top 40 AM radio stations located hundreds of miles away from my Virginia home.

After sundown, I would tune into three 50,000-watt clear channel AM stations: WLS 890 AM Chicago, WCFL 1000 AM (Super CFL) Chicago and WABC 770 AM New York.

For my countdown of ’72 superfine singles, I consulted two sources in my calculation of the biggest records in this category: Billboard and Cash Box magazines’ year-end top 100 singles charts for 1972.

As I surveyed the prominent hits from 1972, the countdown is entirely based on my opinions. My selections are songs that I deem to be culturally, historically, aesthetically significant, meaningful or relevant.

In comparing the biggest hits of 1972, I learned an interesting fact: Billboard listed “The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face” by Roberta Flack as the number one song while Cash Box placed “American Pie” by Don McLean as their biggest 45-rpm single.

Before I start my countdown of superfine singles, I want to share 10 of my favorite songs that were not ranked by either Cash Box or Billboard on their top 100 year-end charts for 1972.

Operator (That’s Not the Way It Feels)—Jim Croce
Ventura Highway—America
Witchy Woman—Eagles
Conquistador—Procol Harum
That’s the Way God Planned It—Billy Preston

Changes—David Bowie
Someday Never Comes—Creedence Clearwater Revival
Listen to the Music—The Doobie Brothers
Old Man—Neil Young
Baby Baby–Badfinger

This next group are songs I considered for the 1972 countdown but fell outside my top 25 selections. Singles are not ranked and are placed in a random order:

School’s Out—Alice Cooper
Taxi—Harry Chapin
Mother & Child Reunion—Paul Simon
An Old Fashion Love Song—Three Dog Night
Bang a Gong (Get It On)—T. Rex

Back Stabbers—The O’Jays
A Horse with No Name—America
Precious & Few—Climax
Without You—Nilsson
Rock & Roll Lullaby—BJ Thomas

Garden Party—Rick Nelson
I Need You—America
Too Late to Turn Back Now—Cornelius Brothers & Sister Rose
(Last Night) I Didn’t get to Sleep at All—The 5^th Dimension
Speak to the Sky—Rick Springfield

Roundabout—Yes
Use Me—Bill Withers
I Saw the Light—Todd Rundgren
Goodbye to Love—The Carpenters
Sweet Seasons—Carole King

Without further ado, my 1972 quality singles countdown begins:

25. I’ll Take You There—The Staple Singers

Peak positions on Billboard Charts: #1 Hot 100, #1 Hot R&B, 19th biggest song 1972

Lyrics feature message on civil rights, social conditions and has religious overtones. Song is in the Grammy Hall of Fame. The Staple Singers were inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 1999.

24. The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face—Roberta Flack

Peak Positions on Billboard Charts: #1 Hot 100 and #1 Biggest Song of 1972

First number 1 song for the artist born in Black Mountain, North Carolina. Breakout hit was featured in the 1971 film, “Play Misty for Me.” Won two Grammy Awards for “Record of the Year” and “Song of the Year.”

23. You Are Everything—The Stylistics

Peak Positions on Charts: #9 Hot 100 (B), 53^rd Biggest Song of 1972 (CB)

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania soul group. Lead singer Russell Thompkins Jr. is outstanding with his high tenor and falsetto vocals on single. In 2004, the Stylistics were inducted into the Vocal Group Hall of Fame.

22. Everything I Own—Bread

Peak positions on Billboard Charts: #5 Hot 100, 52^nd Biggest Song of 1972

Bread musician and lead singer David Gates wrote song as a tribute to his father after his dad passed away. From the “Baby I’m-a Want You” album, one of six top ten 70s hits for the soft pop rock band.

21. Anticipation—Carly Simon

Peak positions on Billboard Charts: #13 Hot 100, 72^nd Biggest Song of 1972

According to Carly Simon’s 2015 memoir book, “Boys in the Trees”, the singer-songwriter wrote “Anticipation” after she waited for Cat Stevens to arrive at her apartment for a date. Song received a Grammy nomination for “Best Pop Female Vocalist.”

20. Doctor My Eyes—Jackson Browne

Peak Positions on Billboard Charts: #8 Hot 100, 92^nd Biggest Song of 1972

Jackson Browne was the first artist to have a top 40 hit on Asylum Records with “Doctor My Eyes.” Single was written by the musician and singer-songwriter, which featured up tempo piano and guitar riffs.

19. Never Been to Spain—Three Dog Night

Peak Positions on Billboard Charts: #5 Hot 100, 73^rd Biggest Song of 1972

Lyrics written by Hoyt Axton express longing to visit countries outside of his USA home. Three Dog Night’s Cory Wells sings lead vocals while Danny Hutton and Chuck Negron produce tight backing harmonies.

18. Where Is the Love—Roberta Flack & Donny Hathaway

Peak position on Billboard Charts: #5 Hot 100, #1 AC, 58^th Biggest Song of 1972

The exceptional talents of Roberta Flack and Donny Hathaway created a top-notch pairing with this collaboration. The song won a Grammy for “Best Pop Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocals.”

17. Outa-Space—Billy Preston

Peak Positions on Billboard Charts: #1 R&B, #2 Hot 100, 22nd Biggest Song of 1972

Billy Preston played keyboards for the Beatles last concert appearance in 1969 and was nicknamed “Fifth Beatle.” A recording from that London rooftop concert was “Get Back.” Apple Records released that song as a 45-RPM single and is credited to “The Beatles with Billy Preston.”

16. Morning Has Broken—Cat Stevens

Peak Positions on Billboard Charts: #6 Hot 100, 44^th Biggest Song of 1972

This Cat Stevens hit is a cover of a Christian hymn that was first published in 1931. Rick Wakeman of the progressive rock band, Yes, played piano on this traditional Scottish Gaelic tune.

15. City of New Orleans—Arlo Guthrie

Peak Position on Billboard Hot 100 #18, 45th Biggest Song of Year

Late singer-songwriter Steve Goodman portrays a train ride from Chicago to New Orleans on the Illinois Central Railroad and their legendary “City of New Orleans” rail line. The song was written in 1971, after Amtrak took over servicing the famous railroad route from Illinois Central. Arlo Guthrie’s biggest Top 40 hit.

14. Hold Your Head Up—Argent

Peak Position on Billboard Hot 100 #5, 50th Biggest Song of 1972.

Ron Argent left the Zombies in 1969 and formed a new rock band, named after himself: Argent. Rick Wakeman of the rock band Yes provides an outstanding organ solo on song. “Hold Your Head Up” is the only top 40 hit in America for Argent.

13. Go All the Way—The Raspberries

Peak Positions on Billboard Charts: #5 Hot 100, 33^rd Biggest Song of 1972

This tune starts off kicking: Blazing guitars, infectious guitar riff and catchy hooks. Eric Carmen and his bandmates provide soaring harmonies, on this hot rocking, flame throwing masterpiece. I place “Go All the Way” as the best power pop rock song of the 70s.

12. Heart of Gold—Neil Young

Peak Positions on Billboard Charts: #1 Hot 100, 17^th Biggest Song of 1972

Neil Young composed song after injuring his back in 1971. From the album “Harvest” which was the biggest selling LP of 1972. “Heart of Gold” features acoustic guitar and harmonica playing by Young. Backup vocals provided by James Taylor and Linda Ronstadt.

11. Rocket Man—Elton John

Peak Positions on Billboard Charts: #6 Hot 100, 44^th Biggest Song of 1972

This “space rock” gem was written by Bernie Taupin and Elton John. Song has a wonderful mixture of piano, synthesizer and guitar. This hit is a signature song for John and the English rock star now has the nickname of “Rocket Man.”

10. Layla—Derek & the Dominoes

Peak Positions on Billboard Charts: #10 Hot 100, 60^th Biggest Song of 1972

Eric Clapton is a co-writer, singer and lead guitarist for the song “Layla” which was recorded under his band’s name of Derek & the Dominoes. Lyrics are about Clapton’s unrequited love for George Harrison’s wife Pattie Boyd. Duane Allman plays slide guitar during the instrumental section of the tune.

9. American Pie—Don McLean

Peak Position on Billboard Charts 1972: #1 Hot 100: 3rd Biggest Song of Year

I consider “American Pie” as the second-best epic story song from the golden age of top 40 radio. Lyrics proclaim “The day the music died” as a 1959 plane crash that killed rock artists Buddy Holly, The Big Bopper, and Ritchie Valens. Don McLean explores cultural changes within rock ‘n roll, proclaiming philosophical angst, disillusionment and disappointment with rock music created after the tragic event of 2/3/59.

8. Take It Easy—Eagles

Peak Positions on Charts: #12 Hot 100 (BB), 98^th Biggest Song of 1972 (C)

Eagles debut single is an outstanding classic country rock gem. Written by Jackson Browne. Features the famous line “I was standing on a corner in Winslow, Arizona.” A signature song for the ultra-successful 70s rock band.

7. Let’s Stay Together—Al Green

Peak Positions on Billboard Charts: #1 Hot 100, 11^th Biggest Song of 1972

Smooth soul single by R&B and gospel singer Al Green. Rated as the 60^th greatest song of all-time by Rolling Stone. “Let’s Stay Together” is in the Grammy Hall of Fame and the Library of Congress, National Recording Registry. This signature song for Green is still played at many wedding receptions in 2023.

6. Vincent—Don McLean

Peak Positions on Billboard Charts: #2 Hot 100, 94^th Biggest song of 1972

My second Don McLean song on the countdown was penned by the singer-songwriter as a tribute to Vincent van Gogh. The opening line on this song is a reference to a 19^th Century Van Gogh painting, ‘The Starry Night’. Tune is among the most melodic top 40 hits during 1972.

5. Day After Day—Badfinger

Peak Positions on Billboard Charts: #4 Hot 100, 39^th Biggest Song of 1972

Written by Peter Ham of Badfinger and single was the biggest hit for the band. Former Beatles member George Harrison produced the song and played slide guitar on track. “Day After Day” is one of the best power pop rock singles of the 70s.

4. Long Cool Woman in a Black Dress—The Hollies

Peak Position on Billboard Charts: #2 Hot 100, 24^th Biggest Song of 1972

Comeback single for the English group and became their biggest charting hit in the U. S. Opening instrumental music and Allen Clarke’s vocals on “Long Cool Woman” sound similar to “Green River” written by John Fogerty of Creedence Clearwater Revival. The Hollies were sued by the former CCR front man and he secured an out-of-court settlement with the British band.

3. Saturday in the Park—Chicago

Peak Positions on Billboard Charts: #3 Hot 100, 76^th Biggest Song of 1972

Written by Chicago band member Robert Lamm. Lyrics for this song incorporate all pleasant things associated with spending a wonderful summer afternoon with friends and loved ones in a park setting. Tune has an excellent brass section and I rate “Saturday in the Park” one of my favorite “summer” songs from the 60s and 70s.

2. Brandy (You’re a Fine Girl)—Looking Glass

Peak Position on Billboard Charts 1972: #1 Hot 100: 12th Biggest Song of Year

Elliot Lurie of Looking Glass has an engaging story: Brandy works in a seaport harbor town as a barmaid and the man she loves is a sailor. Unfortunately for Brandy, the seaman is never in port and honestly declared to her before leaving for the last time: “But my life, my lover and my lady is the sea.”

“Brandy” is favorite song for my immediate family and we will always sing this classic song whenever hearing it played on the radio. This Looking Glass sing-a-along single is one of my all-time favorite hits from the early to mid 70s.

1. Nights in White Satin—The Moody Blues

Peak positions on Billboard Charts: #2 Hot 100, 32nd Biggest Song of 1972

My top selection on this countdown is “Nights in White Satin” by the Moody Blues. Written by frontman and guitarist Justin Haywood, it is the biggest selling single by the British progressive rock band.

Originally released as a single from the album “Days of Future Passed” in 1967, the song didn’t chart in the U.S. and was only a minor hit in the U.K. Five years later in 1972, “Nights in White Satin” was reissued as a single and became a world-wide smash.

Musical backup on the track was provided by the London Festival Orchestra and gave the tune a unique sound, quite different from most hits during early to mid 70s on top 40 radio. Over the years, the song has achieved critical acclaim and is considered by many as a progressive rock masterpiece.

Without a doubt, I proclaim “Nights in White Satin” is my third favorite song of all-time and the Moody Blues hit is my number one best top 40 single of 1972.

That wraps up what I consider to be my favorite and best top 40 hits for 1972. I completely understand that my listing of songs in this category was written from my point of view and is subjective.

If you were creating a similar register of excellent 1972 hits, your tabulation may be totally different. What do you consider to be best preeminent singles from ’72? I hope you will comment below.

Listening to music from the golden age of Top 40 radio will always have a special place in my heart. I still cherish and fondly remember my favorite superfine singles of 1972. Rock on!

To subscribe to my blog via email, please click the “Follow” button in the menu above.

Artist Profiles, Music, Music Countdowns, Radio

Superb Soul Singles of Stax Records: 1965 to 1972

“Do you like good music, that sweet soul music, just as long as it’s swinging, oh yeah, oh yeah.”

Above are the opening lyrics to Arthur Conley’s 1967 smash hit “Sweet Soul Music” which was co-written by Otis Redding, Sam Cooke and Conley. This song remains a shining example of excellent soul singles released by Stax Records, which had recording studios in Memphis, Tennessee.

With this month’s music blog message, I am featuring some of the most beloved Southern soul music singles from Stax Records. I will countdown my baker’s dozen: what I consider to be the 13 best and most influential Stax soul top 40 hits spanning from 1965 until 1972.

Before I share my selections, I want to give a brief history of Stax which was founded during 1957. This Memphis recording company was on the forefront with the advancement of Southern Black Music: Soul, rhythm and blues, gospel and funk.

Stax became the second largest company producing soul music, just behind Motown Records of Detroit, Michigan during the mid 60s to early 70s.

According to the current 2023 Stax Records Dot Com website: “Stax placed more than 167 hit songs in the Top 100 on the pop charts, and a staggering 243 hits in the Top 100 R&B charts.”

When discussing the early years of Stax, it must be noted that there were other record label names associated with the Memphis music company: the biggest in this category is Volt Records. It was founded in 1961 as a Stax subsidiary R&B label.

Music recorded by Stax/Volt Records and other subsidiary labels during the early years (1957-1968) was distributed by ATCO Records, which was owned by Atlantic Records.

After Atlantic departed ways with Stax, the company was independent until 1972 when CBS Records distributed for the Memphis organization. Five years later, Fantasy Records bought Stax as the label had declared bankruptcy.

Below are the criterion I am using for my Stax/Volt soul singles countdown:

Only one song per artist. This will allow 13 different recording acts to be a part of the countdown instead of multiple songs from a singer like Otis Redding.

Song was a Top 10 hit on Billboard’s Hot R&B (Soul) singles chart.

Selection also was a crossover hit on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, peaking #30 or higher.

Below are excellent Stax soul singles outside of my countdown. Songs listed in random order and not ranked:

Groovin’ – Booker T. and the MG’s – 1967
Hang ‘Em High – Booker T. and the MG’s – 1968
Hold on! I’m Comin’–Sam and Dave – 1966
I Thank You – Sam and Dave – 1968
B-A-B-Y – Carla Thomas – 1966

Do the Funky Chicken–Rufus Thomas – 1970
I’ve Been Loving You Too Long – Otis Redding – 1965
Try a Little Tenderness – Otis Redding – 1966
Tramp – Otis Redding and Carla Thomas – 1967
Respect – Otis Redding – 1965

In the Midnight Hour – Wilson Pickett — 1965
Satisfaction – Otis Redding – 1966
Knock on Wood – Otis Redding and Carla Thomas – 1967
Testify (I Wonna) – Johnnie Taylor – 1969
I’ve Been Loving You Too Long – Otis Redding — 1965

Without further ado, here are my selections:

13. (If Loving You is Wrong) I Don’t Want to be Right—Luther Ingram (1972)

Peak Positions on Billboard Charts: #1 Hot R&B, #3 Hot 100, 16^th biggest song 1972

Singer-songwriter born in Jackson, Tennessee. Biggest hit by artist. Song was covered by multiple artists including a number one country single by Barbara Mandrell.

12. Whatcha See is Whatcha Get—The Dramatics (1971)

Peak Positions on Billboard Charts: #3 Hot R&B, #9 Hot 100, 46^th biggest song 1971

Vocal music group from Detroit, Michigan. Lead singer Ron Banks provides scatting on song. The Dramatics had a second top ten smash with “In the Rain” in 1972.

11. Who’s Making Love—Johnnie Taylor (1968)

Peak Positions on Billboard Charts: #1 Hot R&B, #5 Hot 100

Song features Stax house band, Booker T. & the M.G.’s, and Isaac Hayes playing keyboards.

Johnnie Taylor nicknamed “The Philosopher of Soul.” Instruments on tune were played by Booker T and the MGs and keyboards by Isaac Hayes. Had a number one in 1976 with “Disco Lady.”

10. Soul Finger—The Bar-Kays (1967)

Peak Positions on Billboard Charts: #3 Hot R&B, #17 Hot 100, 67^th biggest song 1967

Instrumental ensemble that was Otis Redding’s band. Tune became group’s first hit. Tragedy struck in December 1967 as Redding and four members of the band died in a plane crash. The Bar Kays re-formed in the 70s as a funk band.

9. Theme from Shaft—Isaac Hayes (1971)

Peak Positions on Billboard Charts: #1 Hot 100, #2 Hot R&B, 89^th biggest song 1971

Theme song from the 1971 film “Shaft” was written by Isaac Hayes. The mostly instrumental single won two Grammy Awards for “Best Instrumental Arrangement” and “Best Original Score Written for a Motion Picture or TV Special.”

8. Mr. Big Stuff—Jean Knight (1971)

Peak position on Billboard Charts: #1 R&B, #2 Hot 100: 17th biggest song 1971

A sassy, upbeat soul song, that has an excellent bass line. Jean Knight’s song was nominated for Best Female R&B Vocal Performance at the 1972 Grammy Awards.

7. Knock on Wood—Eddie Floyd (1966)

Peak Positions on Billboard Charts: #1 Hot R&B, #28 Hot 100

Written by Eddie Floyd and Steve Cooper. Song was covered by fellow Stax artists Otis Redding and Carla Thomas in 1967 and later in 1979 from Amii Stewart. Floyd was named to the Memphis Music Hall of Fame in 2018.

6. Sweet Soul Music—Arthur Conley (1967)

Peak Position of Billboard Charts: #2 Hot 100, #2 Hot R&B, 17th Biggest Song of 1967

“Sweet Soul Music” was co-written by Arthur Conley and Otis Redding. Lyrics honors some of the biggest R&B artists from the mid 60s: The Miracles, Lou Rawls, Sam & Dave, Wilson Pickett, Otis Redding and James Brown. Brass instruments create a rich sound on the tune.

5. Time is Tight—Booker T & the MGs (1969)

Peak Positions on Billboard Charts: #6 Hot 100, #7 Hot R&B, 63rd Biggest Hit of 1969

Booker T and the MGs were a mainstay with Stax and are considered the quintessential R&B instrumental band of the 60s. These musicians had seven Top 40 hits and the group was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 1992.

4. I’ll Take You There—The Staple Singers (1972)

Peak positions on Billboard Charts: #1 Hot 100, #1 Hot R&B, 19^th biggest song 1972

Lyrics feature message on civil rights, social conditions and has religious overtones. Song is in the Grammy Hall of Fame. The Staple Singers were inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 1999.

3. Soul Man—Sam and Dave (1967)

Peak Positions on Billboard Charts: #1 Hot R&B, #2 Hot 100, 19^th biggest song 1967

Sam Moore and Dave Prater are considered one of the greatest live performing artists of the 60s. “Soul Man” received a Grammy Award in 1968 and this dynamic duo have been inducted into 4 musical hall of fame organizations.

2. Mustang Sally—Wilson Pickett (1965)

Peak Positions on Billboard Hot 100: #6 Hot R&B, #23 Hot 100

Singer-songwriter Wilson Pickett is recognized as a pioneer in the development of Southern soul music. Inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 1991. “Mustang Sally” is on Rolling Stone’s “500 Greatest Songs of all-time” listing.

(Sittin’ On) The Dock of the Bay—Otis Redding (1967)

Otis Redding is regarded as one of the all-time greatest singers of the 20^th Century. Known as the “King of Soul”, this singer-songwriter gave spirited concert performances during his short music career.

As a songwriter, Redding penned the song “Respect” that Aretha Franklin covered and turned into a massive hit. Another well-known song by the King of Soul” is “Try a Little Tenderness.”

“(Sittin’ On) The Dock of the Bay” by Redding is my number one top selection on my countdown of the best Stax songs of all-time. Redding recorded this composition 3 days before he perished in a plane crash near Madison, Wisconsin on December 10, 1967.

Released as a single during January 1968, “(Sittin’ On) The Dock of the Bay” became the first posthumous number 1 song to chart on the Billboard Hot 100. It remains one of the most iconic top 40 singles of the 60s.

During 1969, Redding received 2 posthumous Grammy Awards for his best known and well-loved signature song. Without a doubt, I have “(Sittin’ On) The Dock of the Bay” as the #1 greatest Stax superb soul single ever made.

That wraps up what I consider to be the 13 essential Stax/Volt soul singles from the 60s and 70s. I completely understand that my listing of songs in this category was written from my point of view and is subjective.

If you were creating a similar register of excellent soul hits, your tabulation may be totally different. What do you consider to be the best musical tunes in this category? I hope you will comment below.

Listening to Southern soul singles from Stax Records will always have a special place in my heart. I still cherish and fondly remember every song on my countdown. Rock on!

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Music, Music Countdowns, Radio, Retro Rock, Symphony

Terrific Top 40 Instrumental Hits of the 70s

One year ago, I published a music blog message on 60’s pop instrumental hit songs and that article has been a popular read for many folks.

With this new message, I will be featuring a countdown of what I consider to be the most significant pop instrumental Top 40 singles from the 70s.

Since 1980, it has been extremely rare for instrumental songs to become hits on the Billboard Hot 100. However, during the 60s and 70s, instrumental songs regularly became major hits on Top 40 radio.

Criteria that I am using for the instrumental songs that I will be featuring in my countdown:

Tune charted during the 70s (1970-1979)
Single peaked at number 40 or higher on the Billboard Hot 100 chart
Song has NO voices, singing, speaking of words or whistling anywhere on the tune

As I started compiling my list of possible songs to include on an instrumental countdown of the 70s, there were quite a few tunes that I placed in a “Mainly or Almost Instrumental” category.

My definition for mainly or almost instrumentals: Tunes that range from good to outstanding but not eligible for my countdown because of human voices, brief singing, scatting, spoken words, rapping or whistling.

Two excellent examples in this category are by the Average White Band: “Pick Up the Pieces” and “Cut the Cake.” Because both selections include minimal singing, these tunes are not eligible for my terrific instrumental hits of the 70s countdown.

Below are some other top “mainly or almost instrumental” tunes:

TSOP (The Sound of Philadelphia)—MFSB
The Hustle—Van McCoy
Hocus Pocus—Focus
Rock and Roll Part II—Gary Glitter

Fly Robin Fly—Silver Convention
Theme from Shaft—Isaac Hayes
Express—BT Express
Gonna Fly Now—Bill Conti

Next are two excellent instrumental tunes that did not reach #40 or higher on the Billboard Hot 100:

Breezin’—George Benson
Jessica—The Allman Brothers Band

Instrumental songs just outside of my top 20 countdown. Tunes not ranked and in a random order:

Summer of ’42 Theme Song—Peter Nero
Music Box Dancer—Frank Mills
Popcorn—Hot Butter
Theme from S.W.A.T.—Rhythm Heritage
Star Wars Theme/Cantina Band–Meco

Without further ado, my terrific pop instrumental songs of the 70s countdown:

20. Space Race—Billy Preston: 1973

Peak Positions on Charts: #4 Hot 100 Billboard, 66^th Biggest Song of 1973 Cash Box

Musician Billy Preston played keyboards, bass and produced this synthesizer track. Dick Clark’s American Band TV show used snippet of tune during broadcast breaks from the mid 70s until 1989.

19. Main Title: Theme from Jaws—John Williams: 1975

Peak Position on Billboard Chart: #32 Hot 100

The “Jaws” music composed by John Williams has a pretense of tranquility but quickly turns into a pulsating foreboding tone, signaling unsettling danger. The soundtrack for “Jaws” won both Grammy and Academy Awards for Williams’ cinematic score in 1976.

18. The Rockford Files—Mike Post: 1975

Peak Positions on Billboard Charts: #10 Hot 100, 85^th Biggest Song of 1975

Theme song from TV show. Featured non-traditional top 40 instruments: dobro and harmonica, as well as guitar and synthesizer solos. Won a 1975 Grammy Award for “Best Instrumental Arrangement.”

17. Morning Dance—Spyro Gyra: 1979

Peak Positions on Billboard Charts: #1 AC, #24 Hot 100

Recording is considered a combination of jazz fusion and smooth jazz. Two prominent instruments on this tune are saxophone and steelpan drum. Released at the height of disco mania on top 40 radio, this track stood out among the dance hits during the summer of ’79.

16. Amazing Grace—Royal Scots Dragon Guard: 1972

Peak position on Billboard Chart: #11 Hot 100

Unlikely hit using John Newton’s 18^th century hymn. A “Pipes and Drums” band. Musicians were actually part of a cavalry regiment with the British Army, and the senior Scottish regiment.

15. Scorpio—Dennis Coffey: 1971-1972

Peak Positions on Billboard Charts: #6 Hot 100, 43^rd Biggest Song of 1972

Artist was a guitarist and studio musician in Detroit, Michigan. Tune mixes soul/R&B with Latin and African cadence. Tune has been sampled in over a dozen hip-hop songs spanning from the 80s until this decade.

14. Love’s Theme—Love Unlimited Orchestra: 1974

Peak Positions on Billboard’s Charts: #1 Hot 100, 3^rd Biggest Song of 1974.

Written and produced by Barry White. The Love Unlimited Orchestra utilized a large string section, and guitar rhythm ensemble. Single is considered Proto-disco: a forerunner to the disco genre of music that was dominate from the mid to late 70s.

13. Tubular Bells—Mike Oldfield

Peak Position on Billboard Charts: #7 Hot 100, 79^th Biggest Song of 1974

From the 1973 film “The Exorcist.” English musician Mike Oldfield was only 19 when he recorded tune and plays guitar, keyboards, percussion and this track. An international hit.

12. Dueling Banjos–Eric Weissberg & Steve Mandell

Peak Positions on Billboard Charts: #2 Hot 100, 61st Biggest Song of 1973

Bluegrass Composition written by Arthur “Guitar Boogie” Smith in 1954. Made famous in 1972 film “Deliverance.” Single was nominated for a Golden Globe award for “Best Original Song.”

11. Also Sprach Zarathustra (2001)—Deodato

Peak positions on Billboard Charts: #2 Hot 100, 73rd Biggest Song of 1973

A pop/jazz instrumental. Rendition is of the introduction from a 1896 Richard Strauss composition “Also sprach Zarathustra.” Brazilian musician/pianist Eumir Deodato covered this tune, which became popular in Stanley Kubrick’s 1968 film “2001: A Space Odyssey.” This remake won a 1974 Grammy Award for “Best Pop Instrumental Performance.”

10. Nadia’s Theme—Barry DeVorzon & Perry Botikin Jr.: 1976

Peak Positions on Charts: #8 Hot 100 Billboard, 53^rd Biggest Song of 1976 Cash Box

Tune was originally known as “Cotton’s Dream.” In 1973, it became the theme song for “The Young and the Restless.” During the 1976 Summer Olympics, tune was associated with Romanian gymnast Nadia Comăneci. ABC’s “Wild World of Sports” created a video montage and the song was renamed “Nadia’s Theme.”

9. Machine Gun—The Commodores: 1974

Peak Position on Billboard Charts: #7 R&B, #22 Hot 100

Lionel Ritchie and the Commodores first pop top 40 hit. Synthesizer, guitars and bass creates a fast-paced, Funk/R&B hot groove. Tune is still played at many sporting events across the U.S. this decade.

8. Joy—Apollo 100: 1972

Peak Positions on Billboard Hot 100 #6, 71st Biggest Song of 1972

Apollo 100 was a British instrumental ensemble from the early 70s. “Joy” It is an up-tempo contemporary rendition of a 1723 composition by Johann Sebastian Bach called “Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring.”

7. Rise—Herb Alpert: 1979-1980

Peak Positions on Billboard Charts: #1 Hot 100, 80^th Biggest Song 1979 & 54th Biggest Record 1980

Tumpeter Herb Alpert was the first artist to reach number 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 with a vocal performance as well as an instrumental production. (Artist took “This Guy’s in Love with You” to #1 in 1968). Tune received a Grammy Award for “Best Pop Instrumental Performance.”

6. Overture from Tommy—The Assembled Multitude: 1970

Peak Position on Billboard Chart: #16 Hot 100

“Overture” is a song written by Pete Townshend and recorded by his band, the Who, on their 1969 rock opera album “Tommy.” The Assembled Multitude was an instrumental ensemble of studio musicians, lead by producer Tom Sellers. This group and song is a “one hit wonder.”

5. Feels So Good—Chuck Mangione: 1978

Peak Positions on Billboard Charts: #4 Hot 100, 21^st Biggest Song of 1978

Written and produced by flugelhorn player and trumpeter Chuck Mangione. Composition was nominated for a Grammy Award for “Record of the Year” in 1979. Tune reached #1 on Billboard’s Easy Listening chart.

4. A Fifth of Beethoven—Walter Murphy: 1976

Peak Positions on Billboard Charts: #1 Hot 100, 10^th Biggest Song of 1976

Walter Murphy is a keyboardist, songwriter, composer and producer. He used the first movement of Ludwig van Beethoven’s Symphony No. 5, mixing classical and pop music to create a disco funk novelty record. Track is found on the 1977 “Saturday Night Fever” soundtrack.

3. Star Wars Theme—John Williams: 1977

Peak Positions on Billboard Charts: #10 Hot 100, 99^th Biggest Song of 1977

Arguably, the “Star Wars” theme song is one the most recognizable, popular and highly acclaimed film tunes in modern cinematic history. Written, composed and conducted by John Williams, his piece was recorded by the London Symphony Orchestra.

2. Outa Space—Billy Preston: 1972

Peak Positions on Billboard Charts: #1 R&B, #2 Hot 100, 22^nd Biggest Song of 1972

“Outa Space was Preston’s first top ten solo hit and the artist played most of the instruments on this psychedelic funk/soul gem. A unique feature on this track is Preston’s playing a clavinet through a wah-wah pedal. “Outa-Space” won a Grammy for “Best Pop Instrumental Performance” in 1972.

Frankenstein—The Edgar Winter Group: 1973

Peak Positions on Billboard Charts: #1 Hot 100, 16^th Biggest Song of 1973

My number one selection of “Frankenstein” is a progressive rock masterpiece. Music was written by Edgar Winter and produced by band member Rick Derringer. Structure of the tune is a continuous long jam session.

Individual solos are played throughout the song with these instruments: synthesizer, saxophone, guitar, bass, and drums. Winter is said to be the first rock artist to strap a keyboard/synthesizer around his neck during concerts. He utilized this method on his band’s 1973 concert tour.

Without a doubt, I consider “Frankenstein” by the Edgar Winter Band as the number 1 best top 40 instrumental hit from the 70s.

That wraps up what I consider to be the most terrific top 40 instrumental hits of the 70s decade. I completely understand that my listing of songs in this category was written from my point of view and is subjective.

If you were creating a similar register of excellent 70s instrumental hits, your tabulation may be totally different. What do you consider to be best musical tunes in this category? I hope you will comment below.

Listening to music from the golden age of Top 40 radio will always have a special place in my heart. I still cherish and fondly remember the terrific top 40 instrumental hits of the 70s. Rock on!

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Concert Reviews, Music, Retro Rock, Symphony, Virginia Artists

David Stewart Wiley: Magnificent Musical Maestro

Maestro David Stewart Wiley. Photo by Richard Boyd

Oxford Languages defines the word maestro as: “a distinguished musician, especially a conductor of classical music, a great or distinguished figure in any sphere.” I maintain this definition accurately describes the musical world of David Stewart Wiley.

David Stewart Wiley (DSW) is the Music Director and Conductor for the Roanoke Symphony Orchestra (RSO) and has served in that capacity since 1996. However, his sphere of influence goes way beyond Roanoke and southwestern Virginia.

Video I recorded of Jeans ‘n Classics and RSO of “Another Brick in the Wall Part II” by Pink Floyd in concert on June 16, 2023.

Raised in Massachusetts, DSW has conducted symphonies in over a dozen major U.S. cities and as well as in the continents of Europe, Asia and Africa.

Wiley is also an accomplished solo pianist, performing with numerous orchestras, chamber ensembles and operas across the United States, China, Russia and multiple European countries.

In addition to his RSO duties, Wiley also serves as Music Director & Conductor of Orchestra Long Island in New York and is Artistic Director of Virginia’s Blue Ridge Music Festival based in Floyd.

Maestro David Stewart Wiley. Photo by Richard Boyd

For the purpose of this music blog message, I will be concentrating on Wiley’s artistic leadership at the helm of the Roanoke Symphony Orchestra.

Conductor Wiley and the Roanoke Symphony Orchestra. Photo from RSO website.

I had the chance to interview Wiley via telephone just after he completed his last RSO concert of the 2022-2023 season and a two-day mini music festival in Floyd, Virginia.

Maestro Wiley holds both a Doctor and Master of Music in Conducting from Indiana University, as well as a degree in Piano Performance from the New England Conservatory of Music. DSW also has a degree in Religion from Tufts University.

Music has always been a part of Wiley’s life as he performed his first piano concerto with a professional orchestra at age 10 in Boston, Massachusetts. DSW credits his parents and various music teachers for helping him gain a firm foundation within the world of music performance.

Dr. Wiley had composed three piano concerti and recorded numerous CDs with both his written original compositions as well as renditions of renowned classical music masterpieces.

According to Wiley, since he became the music director of RSO in 1996: “RSO has experienced continued artistic growth, program innovation and expansion, and increased financial stability.”

One innovation that Wiley has implemented is a management program within a symphony orchestra setting called “Conducting Change” which was developed by DSW.

Another hallmark of Conductor Wiley is his dedication for RSO to be involved with public service activities and partnering with schools, civic and other arts organizations.

Below are just a few of David’s achievements directing and leading RSO in the area of community involvement:

Collaborates with WVTF public radio to broadcast many RSO concerts.
RSO has produced a live TV broadcast of a RSO show.
Bringing classical music to youth in minority communities.
RSO & Wiley received a prestigious Distinguished Music Educator Award from Yale University for its partnership with city schools.
DSW named Roanoke’s “Citizen of the Year” for his outstanding service and outreach.
Wiley honored by the NAACP as Citizen of the Year in the Arts for his service.

Maestro David Stewart Wiley. Photo by Richard Boyd

Arguably, one of Wiley’s crowning success stories with RSO is his development of the pops concert series. Around 20 years ago, DSW partnered with a Canadian group of rock musicians called Jeans ‘n Classics to create a different type of musical experience for RSO patrons.

During the 20^th century, playing pop/rock music in classical music orchestras was almost unheard of in North America. Jeans ‘n Classics was created 23 years ago and is made up of world class pop/rock musicians.

Music Director Wiley and RSO became one of the first orchestras in the U.S. in the early 2000s to partner with Jeans ‘n Classics to combine pop/rock music with traditional instrumentation in an orchestra setting. RSO performs at least two of these pops shows during a concert season and has expanded from three to four programs in recent years.

Video I recorded of Jeans ‘n Classics and RSO of “Eclipse” by Pink Floyd in concert on June 16, 2023.

The latest pops concert happened last month: it featured Jeans ‘n Classics and the RSO combining to perform Pink Floyd’s landmark LP “The Dark Side of the Moon” in its entirety, in honor of its 50^th anniversary. This was an outstanding performance.

My wife, Priscilla, and I have enjoyed many of the RSO pops concerts over the past few years. Three months ago, we loved hearing Jim Curry who performs the music of John Denver with a superb RSO collaboration.

Jim Curry, David Stewart Wiley & some RSO musicians in concert during April 2023. Photo courtesy of Sammy Oakey.

Our favorite RSO pops concert was a Beatles tribute band performing the music of “Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band” during the 50^th anniversary of this legendary album.

Other excellent RSO pops shows that I have witnessed were concerts featuring music from the following artists: Eagles, Fleetwood Mac, Led Zeppelin and the Police.

Before I leave the topic of wonderful pops concerts, perhaps my all-time favorite show was when British R&B pop singer-songwriter Billy Ocean himself performed with RSO in 2016. Ocean’s top-notch vocals and the RSO musicians provided a sterling evening for the audience.

Video I recorded of Jeans ‘n Classics & RSO of “Money” by Pink Floyd in concert on June 16, 2023.

As I mentioned above, I spoke with David Stewart Wiley during a phone conversation late last month. I presented four questions to DSW on what he considers the important aspects of career and life experiences with RSO. The questions and answers are found below:

DJ Dave: The COVID-19 pandemic was problematic for organizations like RSO. Under your direction, what steps did you take to guide RSO out of the abyss and back into regular normal operations?

DSW: Our RSO Executive Director David Crane along with our board, staff, musicians and committed donors were a huge part of our organization’s ability to weather the storm as the symphony during the pandemic. Long time friends/donors and corporate sponsors of RSO were a lifeline during those lean times.

Online presentations of music became a reality for a time, and RSO made educational programs and past concerts available via the Internet to local colleges, public and private schools, and patrons. Outdoor concerts like “Symphony Under the Stars” at Elmwood Park gave RSO a chance to play live music again in 2021.

Video I recorded of Jeans ‘n Classics and RSO performing “Brain Damage” by Pink Floyd in concert on June 16th, 2023.

DJ Dave: As I have learned about your leadership with RSO, I know that you value education. Can you share about RSO’s focus teaching music to elementary through high school students in southwestern Virginia?

DSW: Our energetic Community Engagement & Education Director for RSO, Hannah Cox, provides outstanding guidance and support for our education ensembles.

The Roanoke Youth Symphony, among other RSO groups, continues its 60+ year tradition of providing vital experiences for our region’s youth.

Through the excellent administration skills of Cox, RSO continues to reach numerous school children in our area from elementary through high school, college students, and includes retirees with our “Wellness Arts” program.

Video I recorded of Jeans ‘n Classics & RSO performing “Us and Them” by Pink Floyd in concert on June 16, 2023.

DJ Dave: An outstanding achievement that you have implemented is working with organizations and civic clubs in our area. What are strategies that you employ when deciding what groups to partner with for RSO community services?

DSW: RSO staff members and I work with civic and private organizations, schools, colleges and other arts groups, as we collaboratively fulfill our mission of artistic excellence and accessibility: for we believe great music is for everybody.

DJ Dave: For your upcoming 27^th year at the helm as leader, music director and conductor of RSO, what are some main goals that you wish to attain during the 2023-2024 RSO concert season?

DSW: Growth and artistic excellence for musical programs and expanding new outreach opportunities in our community are among our goals. Also, increasing RSO’s significant presence throughout our regionand finding new ways to market RSO to a wider audience.

Maestro David Stewart Wiley. Photo by Richard Boyd

One of the many joys for Wiley every summer is an event called “Symphony Under the Stars” where RSO plays a free concert at Elmwood Park in downtown Roanoke. Usually held in late August, this show kicks off the upcoming RSO concert season on Saturday, August 26, 2023, at 7:30 PM. More info at www.rso.com.

Concert master Wiley explained to me his four goals for this outdoor concert: making great music, having the music be accessible and wide-ranging from classics to film scores, showing a welcoming spirit, and celebrating community in a fun and relaxed environment.

During these Elmwood Park shows, RSO play a variety of music: from classic music masterworks to patriotic favorites, film scores, premieres, and even features dancers and singers. My wife and I have attended a several of these shows and are always pleased to hear excellent music being played outside in downtown Roanoke on warm August evenings.

Video I recorded of Jeans ‘n Classics & RSO performing “Comfortably Numb” by Pink Floyd in concert on June 16, 2023.

A favorite highlight for me I have experienced during Symphony Under the Stars: Conductor Wiley has used a light saber sword as a baton when RSO plays John Williams’ “Star Wars” movie theme song.

Maestro Wiley wants to cordially invite anyone living in the Roanoke area to attend the free RSO Symphony Under the Stars concert on Saturday August 26th, 7:30 pm at Elmwood Park, downtown Roanoke. If you attend, I guarantee that you won’t be disappointed.

Scene by RSO “Symphony Under the Stars” concert in 2015. Photo from RSO website.

After completing my phone conversation with Wiley, a few things became evident to me. The leader of RSO is compassionate, dedicated and has a servant’s heart. He has been proud to serve the Roanoke community since 1996 as Music Director and Conductor with RSO.

Those of us who live in the Roanoke Valley and southwestern Virginia are truly fortunate to have a magnificent musical maestro in our mist. Without a doubt, David Stewart Wiley is a treasure for our community. Rock on!

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Broadcasting, Music, Music Countdowns, Radio, Retro Rock

1973 Superfine Singles

“When I think back on all the crap I learned in high school, It’s a wonder I can think at all, and though my lack of education hasn’t hurt me none, I can read the writing on the wall.” Opening lyrics of “Kodachrome” written by Paul Simon (1973).

It was early June 1973: I was driving to my Glenvar High School graduation ceremony and I heard “Kodachrome” from Paul Simon being played on Top 40 WROV 1240 AM Roanoke, Virginia. It was a perfect song for my listening ears, as I was transitioning from life as a high school student into new life adventures as a young adult.

As I reflect back on the 50 years since I completed high school, I am remembering the music from my youth. With this music blog message, I will be counting down what I consider to be my favorite top 40 hits from 1973.

The number 1 song on the Billboard Hot 100 the day I graduated from high school was “My Love” by Paul McCartney & Wings.”

I have fond memories of listening to top 40 radio in 1973. It was the year I turned 18 and started my freshman year at Virginia Western Community College.

WROV DJ Larry Bly with Wolfman Jack inside the station studio in April 1975. Courtesy of WROV History Website/Pat Garrett.

During daylight hours, I exclusively listened to Roanoke’s legendary WROV 1240 AM. This station featured a Top 40 format and was the number one top-ranked radio outlet in my city.

Audio Aircheck of Larry Bly WROV Roanoke April 1973. Courtesy of WROV History Website/Pat Garrett

Bart Prater and Larry Bly were my two favorite WROV DJs back in 1973. When WROV reduced power at sundown, I would listen to 3 top 40 AM radio stations located hundreds of miles away from my Virginia home.

Audio Aircheck of Bart Prater WROV Roanoke May 1973. Courtesy of WROV History Website/Pat Garrett

WROV DJ Bart Prater in the studio. Courtesy of WROV History Website/Pat Garrett.

After sundown, I would tune into three 50,000-watt clear channel AM stations: WLS 890 AM Chicago, WCFL 1000 AM (Super CFL) and WABC 770 AM New York.

For my countdown of ’73 superfine singles, I used two sources in my calculation for the biggest records in this category: Billboard and Cash Box magazines’ year-end top 100 singles charts for 1973.

As I surveyed the prominent hits from 50 years ago, the countdown is entirely based on my opinions. My selections are songs that I deem to be culturally, historically, aesthetically significant, meaningful or relevant.

An interesting fact that I learned when researching this topic: Billboard and Cash Box year-end charts both agreed on the biggest two hits for 1973:

1 TIE A YELLOW RIBBON ROUND THE OLE OAK TREE – Tony Orlando & Dawn

2 BAD, BAD LEROY BROWN – Jim Croce

Before I start my countdown of superfine singles, I want to share 10 of my favorite songs that were not ranked by either Cash Box or Billboard on their top 100 year-end charts for 1973.

Pieces of April—Three Dog Night
Peaceful Easy Feeling—Eagles
China Grove—The Doobie Brothers
Over the Hills and Far Away—Led Zeppelin
We May Never Pass this Way Again—Seals and Crofts

Knockin’ on Heaven’s Door—Bob Dylan
Rocky Mountain Way—Joe Walsh
Living in the Past—Jethro Tull
Tequila Sunrise—Eagles
I’m Just a Singer (In a Rock and Roll Band)—The Moody Blues

Next up are songs I considered for the 1973 countdown but fell outside my top 25 selections. Singles are not ranked and are placed in a random order:

Free Ride—The Edgar Winter Group
Ramblin’ Man—The Allman Brothers Band
Let’s Pretend—The Raspberries
The Cisco Kid—War
Crocodile Rock—Elton John

Could It Be I’m Falling in Love—The Spinners
Will It Go Round in Circles—Billy Preston
Just You ‘n’ Me—Chicago
Ain’t No Woman (Like the One I Got)—The Four Tops
The Night the Lights Went Out in Georgia—Vicki Lawrence

Money—Pink Floyd
Frankenstein—The Edgar Winter Group
So Very Hard to Go—Tower of Power
Natural High—Bloodstone
Danny’s Song—Anne Murray

Superstition—Stevie Wonder
I Wanna Be with You—The Raspberries
Papa Was a Rolling Stone—The Temptations
Jambalaya (On the Bayou)—Blue Ridge Rangers
My Love—Paul McCartney & Wings

Without further ado, my 1973 superfine singles countdown begins:

25. It Never Rains in Southern California—Albert Hammond

Peak Positions on Charts: #2 Cash Box Top 100, 36th Biggest Song of 1973 (CB)

Prolific songwriter. British-born. Composed over 20 successful singles for other artists. Lyricist also collaborated with Hal David, Diane Warren, Carole Bayer Sager and Mike Hazelwood, for additional top 40 hits.

24. That Lady Pts. 1 & 2—The Isley Brothers

Peak Positions on Charts: #6 Billboard Hot 100, 21^st Biggest Song of 1973 (B)

Originally written in 1964 by siblings Rudolph, Ronald and O’Kelly Isley as “Who’s That Lady.” The ‘73 R&B rendition utilizes a fusion of funk and rock, featuring outstanding guitar riffs.

23. I Can See Clearly Now—Johnny Nash

Peak Positions on Charts: #1 on both Billboard Hot 100 & Cash Box Top 100, 74^th Biggest Song of 1973 (CB)

Reggae/R&B/Pop singer-songwriter. Johnny Nash wrote his number 1 single. International hit for the American artist.

22. You are the Sunshine of My Life—Stevie Wonder

Peak Positions on Charts: #1 Cash Box Top 100, #1 Billboard Hot 100, 19^th Biggest Song of 1973 (B)

Progressive soul. Second single to reach #1 for Stevie Wonder in 1973. Singer-songwriter won Grammy Award for “Best Male Pop Vocal Performance” for his tune.

21. Love Train—The O’Jays

Peak position on Charts: #1 Billboard Hot 100, #1 Cash Box Top 100, 12^th Biggest Song of 1973 (CB)

Written by Kenny Gamble and Leon Huff. Classic R&B tune. Considered Proto-disco. Forerunner of disco genre. Lyrics promote world peace.

20. Loves Me Like a Rock—Paul Simon

Peak Positions on Charts: #2 Billboard Hot 100, 22^nd Biggest Song of 1973 Cash Box

Background vocals by Southern Black gospel group the Dixie Hummingbirds. Won a Grammy Award for Best Soul Gospel performance in 1974.

19. Give Me Love (Give Me Peace on Earth)—George Harrison

Peak Positions on Charts: #1 Billboard Hot 100, #1 Cash Box Top 100, 42^nd Biggest Song of 1973 (B)

The former Beatle uses slide guitar technique on this single. Second #1 song in Harrison’s career. Has spiritual lyrical content.

18. Higher Ground—Stevie Wonder

Peak Positions on Charts: #4 Billboard Hot 100, 62^nd Biggest Song of 1973 (B)

The third of four consecutive top ten hits for Wonder in 1973. The Motown artist wrote song and plays all instruments on the single.

17. Rocky Mountain High—John Denver

Peak Positions on Charts: #7 Cash Box Top 100, 26^th Biggest Song in 1973 (CB)

Folk rock/country rock musical genres. Became an official state song for Colorado in 2017. One of Denver’s lasting environmental signature singles.

16. Wildflower—Skylark

Peak Positions on Charts: #9 Billboard Hot 100, 25^th Biggest Song of 1973 (B)

Canadian pop/rock band. A one hit wonder in the U.S. Group had multiple hits in their home country. Outstanding power ballad.

15. Space Oddity—David Bowie

Peak Positions on Charts: #15 Billboard Hot 100, 97^th Biggest Song of 1973 (B)

First released in July 1969 and a U.K. hit. Re-released 3 years later in the U.S. Tale about a fictional astronaut named Major Tom. Signature song for Bowie.

14. Do It Again—Steely Dan

Peak Positions on Charts: #6 Billboard Hot 100, 73^rd Biggest Song of 1973 (B)

Written by Steely Dan members Donald Fagen and Walter Becker. First top ten hit for the band. Single has a Latin-jazz, soft rock rhythm and features an electric sitar.

13. Stuck in the Middle with You—Stealers Wheel

Peak Positions on Charts: #3 Cash Box Top 100, 28^th Biggest Song of 1973 (CB)

Scottish musicians Gerry Rafferty and Joe Egan from Stealers Wheel co-wrote song. Peppy pop tune. Group charted a second top 40 hit with “Star” in 1974. Rafferty left the band for a solo career the following year.

12. Midnight Train to Georgia—Gladys Knight & the Pips

Peak Positions on Charts: #1 Cash Box Top 100, #1 Billboard Hot 100, 15th Biggest Song of 1973 (CB)

First number 1 hit for the R&B group. Won a Grammy Award for “Best R&B Vocal Performance by A Duo, Group or Chorus.” Has become Gladys Knight’s signature song.

11. Feeling Stronger Everyday—Chicago

Peak Positions on Charts: #8 Cash Box Top 100, 54^th Biggest Song of 1973 Billboard

A collaboration between bassist Peter Cetera and trombonist James Pankow of Chicago. Superb guitar playing by Terry Kath. Brass section of trumpet, saxophone and trombone lays foundation for this single.

10. Live and Let Die—Paul McCartney & Wings

Peak Positions on Charts: #1 Cashbox Top 100, #2 Billboard Hot 100, 33^rd Biggest Song of 1973 (CB)

Written by Paul and Linda McCartney. It was the first rock song to open a James Bond film. Received a Grammy Award for “Best Arrangement Accompanying Vocalist(s).” McCartney still performs renowned song at solo concerts.

9. Smoke on the Water—Deep Purple

Peak Positions on Charts: #3 Cash Box Top 100, 50^th Biggest Song of 1973 Billboard

Lyrics chronicle an actual 1971 fire in Montreux, Switzerland that Deep Purple band members witnessed while recording an album. Tune has one of the greatest rock guitar riffs of the 20^th century.

8. Kodachrome—Paul Simon

Peak Positions on Charts: #2 Billboard Hot 100, 64^th Biggest Song of 1973 Cash Box

Paul Simon penned this song that is named after Kodak’s now-discontinued reversal film brand Kodachrome. First of two consecutive singles that peaked at #2 on Cash Box and Billboard charts.

7. I Got a Name—Jim Croce

Peak Position on Charts: #3 Cash Box Top 100, 68^th Biggest Song of 1973 (CB)

Song was released one day after Jim Croce died in a plane crash on September 20, 1973. “I Got a Name” was the first of 3 posthumous top ten hits for Croce in 1973 and 1974.

6. Long Train Running—The Doobie Brothers

Peak Positions on Charts: #8 Billboard Hot 100, 41^st Biggest Song of 1973 (B)

Pulsating rocker with superb guitar riffs. First top ten hit for the band. Written by Tom Johnston who provides lead vocals on track.

5. Saturday Night’s Alright (For Fighting)—Elton John

Peak Position on Charts: #12, Billboard Hot 100, 98^th Biggest Song of 1973 Cash Box

Lead single from legendary “Goodbye Yellow Brick Road” album. Composed by Elton John’s long-time songwriting partner Bernie Taupin. High-powered energy rock tune.

4. We’re an American Band—Grand Funk Railroad

Peak Positions on Charts: #1 Billboard Hot 100, 23^rd Biggest Song of 1973 (B)

Band member Don Brewer wrote autobiographical lyrics for this toe-tapping, hard driving rock song. Produced by Todd Rundgren. First number one single for GFR.

3. Reelin’ in the Years—Steely Dan

Peak Positions on Charts: #11 Billboard Hot 100, 68^th Biggest Song of 1973 (B)

Second single from Steely Dan’s debut album, “Can’t Buy a Thrill.” Has a highly-rated guitar solo by session player Elliott Randall. Musically is jazz-rock perfection.

2. Dancing in the Moonlight—King Harvest

Peak Positions on Charts: #10 Cash Box Top 100, 36^th Biggest Song of 1973 Billboard

King Harvest is a one hit wonder. Group formed in Ithaca, New York. This song is still popular in 2023 as it is played at many wedding receptions all across the U.S.

1. You’re So Vain—Carly Simon

Peak Positions on Charts: #1 Billboard Hot 100, #1 Cashbox Top 100, 7^th Biggest Song of 1973 (CB)

My number 1 selection was written by singer-songwriter Carly Simon and is considered her signature song. Single is ranked at #92 on Billboard Magazines “Greatest Songs of All Time” listing.

Lyrics are brilliant as she describes her narcissistic lover. In real life, Simon says that her song is actually about 3 men. However, fifty years later, she remains secretive about revealing the identity of these fellow.

I consider this masterpiece as one of the best epic story songs from the 70s. Without a doubt, “You’re So Vain” by Carly Simon is my number 1 best single for 1973.

That wraps up what I consider to be my favorite and best top 40 hits for 1973. I completely understand that my listing of songs in this category was written from my point of view and is subjective.

If you were creating a similar register of excellent 1973 hits, your tabulation may be totally different. What do you consider to be best preeminent singles from ’73? I hope you will comment below.

Listening to music from the golden age of Top 40 radio will always have a special place in my heart. I still cherish and fondly remember my favorite superfine singles of 1973. Rock on!

To subscribe to my blog via email, please click the “Follow” button in the menu above.

Broadcasting, Music, Music Countdowns, Radio, Retro Rock

1973 Groovy One Hit Wonders

Back by popular demand, this is my latest installment with the topic of one hit wonders. I continue to be amazed by the popularity of this subject matter, as it brings back nostalgic memories for many folks.

Over the past 3 years, I have published one hit wonders messages from years 1968 through 1972. These articles are among my most viewed messages of all-time.

With this latest edition of musical musings, I am concentrating on the best “one hit wonders” from 1973. I will be counting down the top songs in this category from 50 years ago.

I have fond memories of listening to top 40 music from 1973 as it is the year that I graduated from Glenvar High School in Roanoke County Virginia. Then in September ’73, I started my freshman year at Virginia Western Community College, located in Roanoke.

Bart Prater in WROV Roanoke studio. Photo courtesy WROV History Website/Pat Garrett

During daylight hours, I exclusively listened to Roanoke’s legendary WROV 1240 AM. This station featured a Top 40 format and was the number 1 top-ranked radio outlet in my city.

Audio aircheck of Terry Young WROV Roanoke May 1973. Courtesy WROV History Website/Pat Garrett.

The WROV DJs that I remember back in 1973 were Larry Bly, Bart Prater, Terry Young, Shane Randall and Chuck Holloway. When WROV reduced power at sundown, I would listen to top 40 AM radio stations located hundreds of miles away from my Virginia home.

Audio aircheck of Larry Bly WROV Roanoke April 1973. Courtesy WROV History Website/Pat Garrett.

50,000-watt WLS 890 AM Chicago, WCFL 1000 AM (Super CFL) and WABC 770 AM New York were my top three choices for nighttime listening 50 years ago.

In Chicago, I remember WLS DJs John Records Landecker, JJ Jeffries and Fred Winton, while Larry Lujack, Bob Dearborn and Ron O’Brien were superb on Super CFL. Cousin Brucie (Morrow) and Dan Ingram were radio announcing legends at WABC New York.

Some other powerful radio stations that I occasionally heard in ’73: WOWO Fort Wayne 1190 AM, CKLW Windsor, Ontario (Detroit) 800 AM and WKBW Buffalo 1520 AM.

What exactly is a “One Hit Wonder?” The basic definition: An artist has only one hit song on the national Billboard Hot 100 pop chart during their career. This music blog message pertains solely to hit songs within the United States.

To avoid any confusion, here are the criteria that I am using to define a one hit wonder:

No other songs from an artist ever peaking at number 40 or higher on the Billboard National Pop Chart. (Chart positions from number 40 to number 1).

One hit wonders vary from country to country. An artist may have just one hit in the United States but may have multiple hits in another country.

Regional hits are not taken into account: A second song must be a national hit and chart within the Billboard Top 40 pop survey.

Singles that peak from numbers 41 through 100 on the national Billboard Hot 100 pop chart are generally not considered as a second hit. Example: a 2nd song peaking at number 87 does not constitute an artist as a two-hit-wonder.

All documentation of chart positions I share below in this article comes from The Billboard Book of Top 40 Hits by Joel Whitburn. I proudly own a hard copy of this excellent reference manual, which I consider to be the ‘bible” handbook for music history with Top 40 radio.

As a point of reference, below are the top 10 biggest records of 1973. None of these artists are one hit wonders as they all had multiple top 40 hits.

1 “Tie a Yellow Ribbon Round the Ole Oak Tree” Tony Orlando and Dawn

2 “Bad, Bad Leroy Brown” Jim Croce

3 “Killing Me Softly with His Song” Roberta Flack

4 “Let’s Get It On” Marvin Gaye

5 “My Love” Paul McCartney & Wings

6 “Why Me” Kris Kristofferson

7 “Crocodile Rock” Elton John

8 “Will It Go Round in Circles” Billy Preston

9 “You’re So Vain” Carly Simon

10 “Touch Me in the Morning” Diana Ross

Before starting my countdown with the best 1973 one hit wonders, I must clear up some Internet erroneous information that some proclaim on this topic. The band Stealers Wheel is actually a “TWO-HIT WONDER.”

Stealers Wheel was a Scottish rock band formed by Gerry Rafferty and Joe Egan is 1972. The group’s well-known hit “Stuck in the Middle with You” peaked at #6 on the Billboard Hot 100 during the spring of 1973.

A second hit single for Stealers Wheel was “Star.” This highly acclaimed song also charted on the Billboard Hot 100, reaching #29 in March 1974.

Additional 1973 one hit wonders. Notable outside my countdown.

Playground in My Mind—Clint Holmes
Walk on the Wild Side—Lou Reed
Soul Makossa—Manu Dibango
Love Jones—Brighter Side of Darkness

Armed and Extremely Dangerous—First Choice
Smoke Gets in Your Eyes—Blue Haze
In the Midnight Hour—Cross Country
Back When My Hair Was Short—Gunhill Road

Without further ado, the countdown begins with 1973 groovy one hit wonders.

15. Daisy a Day—Jud Struck

Peak Positions on Billboard Charts: #4 AC, #14 Hot 100, 89^th Biggest Song of 1973

Jud Struck was an actor and singer-songwriter. Penned his only hit. A regular on “Rowan and Martin’s Laugh In” TV show. Killed in plane crash in 1981.

14. Dead Skunk—Loudon Wainwright III

Position on charts: #12 Cashbox Top 100, # 16 Billboard Hot 100, 128^th biggest Song of 1973 (Joel Whitburn).

Novelty folk rock song featuring a banjo. Written by Wainwright. Singer also an actor. Played Captain Calvin Spalding, the singing surgeon, on the TV show M*A*S*H.

13. My Maria—B.W. Stevenson

Peak Positions on Billboard Charts: #1 AC, #9 Hot 100, 64^th Biggest Song of 1973

Progressive country rock singer-songwriter and guitarist. Composed “My Maria” and wrote a #1 hit for Three Dog Night called “Shambala.” Died of heart failure in 1988.

12. Hocus Pocus—Focus

Peak Positions on Billboard Charts: #9 Hot 100, 69^th Biggest Song of 1973

Dutch progressive rock band. This ensemble utilizes an unusual assortment of instrumentation and vocal sounds: guitar, drum, flute and accordion solos married with yodeling, eefing, whistling and scat singing.

11. Pillow Talk—Sylvia

Peak Positions on Billboard Charts: #1 Soul, #3 Hot 100, 22^nd Biggest Song of 1973

Sylvia Robinson started her musical career in the 50s as part of the Mickey and Sylvia duo. Robinson went on to become CEO and founder of Sugar Hill Records. She produced “Rapper’s Delight” by the Sugarhill Gang: the first hip hop song ever to reach #40 or higher on the Billboard Hot 100 chart (January 1980).

10. Why Can’t We Live Together—Timmy Thomas

Peak Positions on Billboard Charts: #1 Soul, #3 Hot 100, 75^th Biggest Song of 1973

Song opens with a long keyboard instrumental by Thomas. Artist was a record producer and played with jazz legends Donald Byrd and Cannonball Adderley as a session musician.

9. I’m Doin’ Fine Now—New York City

Peak Positions on Billboard Charts: #17 Hot 100, 46^th Biggest Song of 1973.

R&B group from Harlem in New York City. Two members of the band: guitarist Nile Rodgers and bassist Bernard Edwards went on to co-found the disco funk band Chic in 1976.

8. Oh Babe, What Would You Say—Hurricane Smith

Peak Positions on Charts: #1 Cashbox top 100, #3 Billboard Hot 100, 73^rd Biggest Song of 1973 (Billboard).

English musician, record producer and engineer. Hurricane Smith is credited with producing over 100 songs by the Beatles: his last Fab Four album that he recorded was “Rubber Soul” in 1965.

7. Brother Louie—Stories

Peak Positions on Billboard Charts: #1 Hot 100, 13^th Biggest Song of 1973

Hot Chocolate band members Errol Brown and Tony Wilson co-wrote “Brother Louie” and had an early ’73 U.K. hit with their song. Then New York pop band Stories covered the song in the U.S. The story about an interracial love affair became a #1 summer smash.

6. Right Place Wrong Time—Dr. John

Peak Positions on Billboard Charts: #9 Hot 100, 24^th Biggest Song of 1973

Dr. John played a combination of musical genres: New Orleans blues, jazz, funk and rock. Produced by Allen Toussaint and written by the artist. Dr. John won 6 Grammy Awards in his career and was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2011.

5. Dueling Banjos—Eric Weissberg & Steve Mandell

Peak Positions on Billboard Charts: #2 Hot 100, 61^st Biggest Song of 1973

Bluegrass Composition written by Arthur “Guitar Boogie” Smith in 1954. Made famous in 1972 film “Deliverance.” Single was nominated for a Golden Globe award for “Best Original Song.”

4. Also Sprach Zarathustra (2001)—Deodato

Peak positions on Billboard Charts: #2 Hot 100, 73^rd Biggest Song of 1973

3. The Night the Lights Went Out in Georgia—Vicki Lawrence

Positions on Billboard Charts: #1 Hot 100, 11^th Biggest Song of 1973

Southern murder ballad was written by Bobby Russell, who was married to Vicki Lawrence (1972-1974). Lawrence was also an actress/comedian, who played the character “Mama” on the Carol Burnett TV show. One of the best country pop epic story songs from the 70s.

2. Wildflower—Skylark

Peak Positions on Billboard Charts: #9 Hot 100, 25^th Biggest Song of 1973

Canadian pop/rock band. Reached #1 in Canada during 1972. Since the song was not available in the US as a single, Top 40 CKLW Windsor, Ontario, which is part of the Detroit, Michigan radio market, started playing “Wildflower” as an album track.

The song quickly became a hit in Detroit and was picked up by other top 40 stations in Michigan. Capitol Records then released the Skylark single in the US and it spent 21 weeks charting on the Billboard Hot 100. Folks all across North America loved the smooth vocals by lead singer Donny Gerard on this outstanding power ballad.

1. Dancing in the Moonlight—King Harvest

Peak Positions on Billboard Charts: #13 Hot 100, 36^th Biggest Song of 1973

Without a doubt, “Dancing in the Moonlight” by King Harvest is my top selection as the best 1973 one hit wonder. It is an all-time favorite single for me.

King Harvest formed in 1970, while the band members were attending Cornell University in Ithaca, New York. “Dancing in the Moonlight” is actually a cover song, with the original recording by a band called Boffalongo.

Shortly after the chart success of “Dancing in the Moonlight” on the Billboard Hot 100, King Harvest’s recording label Perception Records went bankrupt. Left without a recording contact, the band membership started to fluctuate. Eventually, King Harvest called it quits in 1976.

The only top 40 hit for King Harvest is still popular here in 2023. Whenever I play this song at wedding receptions where I am hired as a DJ, folks still love to dance to this song. Without a doubt, “Dancing in the Moonlight” is my favorite and top one hit wonder for 1973.

I completely understand that my listing of 1973 groovy one hit wonders was written from my point of view and is subjective. Obviously, I do not want to come across as authoritative with my critique.

What do you consider to be the best one hit wonders from 1973? There are no right or wrong answers. I welcome your thoughts.

Listening to music from the golden age of Top 40 radio will always have a special place in my heart. I cherish and fondly remember my favorite “one hit wonders” of 1973. Rock on!

To subscribe to my blog via email, please click the “Follow” button in the menu above.

DJ Dave's Musical Musings

It's better to burn out than to fade away – Neil Young

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1973 Superfine Singles

1973 Groovy One Hit Wonders