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Broadcasting, Carolina Beach Music, Music, Music Countdowns, Pop Music, Radio, Shag Dancing

Colossal Carolina Beach Music Favorites

My first exposure to what is now referred to as Carolina Beach Music came during my junior year attending Glenvar High School, located in Roanoke County Virginia.  My class raised 1,700 dollars and hired vocal group the Tams to play at our May 1972 spring prom.

Our prom theme was “Be Young, Be Foolish, Be Happy” from the 1968 minor national hit song by the Tams. The vocal group from Atlanta, Georgia was well received by all who attended the Glenvar prom that year.

Photo courtesy of Susan Leonard Sanders, a classmate of mine, from her “Crusader Seventy Two” Glenvar HS yearbook. This was taken at the Glenvar High School prom during May 1972.

Obviously, I still have fond memories of the Tams performing at my high school prom and when I graduated from Glenvar in June 1973, “Be Young, Be Foolish, Be Happy” was played at the graduation ceremony.

A scan courtesy of Susan Leonard Sanders, a classmate of mine, from her “Crusader Seventy Two” Glenvar HS yearbook. These 4 photos were taken when the Tams performed at the Glenvar High School prom during May 1972.

With this month’s music blog article, I will be sharing what I consider to be my favorite songs in the Carolina Beach Music category. My top selections will be broken down into separate silos.

I will be having two countdowns in this article. First, will be national Soul/R&B/Pop hits that charted on the Billboard Hot 100. Second, I will list my top 10 favorite regional Carolina Beach Music (CBM) hits from the mid 60s through the early 80s.

One disclaimer: Carolina Beach Music is NOT associated with the Beach Boys, Jan & Dean, the Ventures and/or any other type of California west coast surfing music. “Wipeout” by the Surfaris is a completely different sub-genre of pop-rock music.

Before starting my countdowns, I need to give a brief history about Carolina Beach Music and a dance known as “Carolina Shag”, which is often shortened to “Shag.”  The term (CBM) wasn’t created until the mid 70s and the music began to take shape after World War II ended.

“Shag” dancing is performed with a partner and the dance is done primarily to beach music. According to Wikipedia, “The term “Carolina shag” is thought to have originated along the Atlantic Ocean in Cherry Grove Beach, South Carolina during the 1940s.”

Both North Carolina and South Carolina list the “Shag” as their “official dance” within those respective states.

The roots of CBM goes back in the late 40s and early 50s.  The music during the formulative years of this genre blended various types of Rock ‘n Roll, R&B, blues and pop music together.

During the late 50s and early 60s, most CBM songs were recorded by R&B artists and Shag dancing became closely associated with the sub-genre of popular music.

In viewing Britannica Dot Com, it states that WLAC Nashville, Tennessee (1510 AM) was influential in the growth of what came to be known as CBM.  “Radio station WLAC blasted 50,000 watts of varied programming, including plenty of rhythm and blues at night.

Using a directional pattern signal at night, WLAC was heard throughout Southeastern Atlantic coastal states.  DJ John R. attained fame in the 1950s and 1960s for playing rhythm and blues records on WLAC. Depending on night time atmospherics, the station could regularly reach 28 states.”

By the mid 60s, Myrtle Beach, South Carolina became the epicenter for Carolina Beach Music and Shag dancing. Clubs began popping up all along the South Carolina beach coastal towns, in a 60-mile area known as the “Grand Strand.”

 Soon after, CBM and Shag dance clubs started springing up and down other Atlantic Southeastern Seaboard shore towns, from Virginia Beach, Virginia down to Southern Georgia.  Some venues also opened up in Northern Florida coastal communities.

For a more detailed look for the history of CBM and Shag dancing, I would encourage you to search the Internet. An interesting article from Beach Music Awards Dot Com can be found here.

Another excellent source for CBM can be found at Born in the Carolinas Dot Com and Junkin Oldies Dot Com by John Hook

There are two eras of Carolina Beach Music:  Classic and Modern.  The “Classic” period is defined from the late 50s until early 80s, while the “Modern” sounds of CBM stretch from the mid 80s until today.

An example of the “Modern” sound of CBM is “Over the Rainbow” by Band of Oz. My friend Chris Keaton from Vinton, Virginia, composed an award-winning rendition of “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” for the CBM group Band of Oz and he was inducted into the North Carolina Music Hall of Fame in 2016 for his achievement.

Currently, there are 13 full time CBM radio stations in the United States:  8 in North Carolina, 4 in South Carolina and 1 in Florida. Another source to hear CBM 24/7 is on an app from SiriusXM radio.  Their “Carolina Shag Radio” channel plays nonstop Carolina Beach Music favorites.

One of the radio stations playing CBM full-time is 94.9 The Surf in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. Below is a listing of this station’s Top 10 Best “Classic” CBM songs of all-time:

#1        Ms. Grace–The Tymes

#2        Carolina Girls–Chairmen of The Board

#3        I Love Beach Music–The Embers

#4        Under the Boardwalk–The Drifters

#5        Summertime’s Calling Me–The Catalinas

#6        60 Minute Man–Billy Ward & His Dominoes

#7        Lady Soul–Temptations

#8        Sand in my Shoes –Steve Jarrell

#9        Be Young Be Foolish Be Happy–The Tams

#10      My Girl –Temptations

For the purposes of this article, my two countdowns of CBM will be from the “Classic” era of the musical genre. Please note: my article is not a definitive ranking of all songs that are found within Carolina Beach Music.

My two separate countdowns of “Classic” CBM are songs that I have selected are all personal favorites for me.  I deem each song to be culturally, historically, aesthetically significant, meaningful or relevant. 

As a prelude to my tabulations of outstanding classic CBM tunes, I am listing 12 worthy Soul/R&B/Pop national Billboard Hot 100 hits that fell just outside my dual countdowns. These songs are not ranked, but placed in a random.

Excellent Songs That Didn’t Make Either Countdown:

  • Give Me Just a Little More Time—Chairmen of the Board
  • Girl Watcher—The O’Kaysions
  • Come Get to This—Marvin Gaye
  • Hello Stranger—Barbara Lewis
  • Use Ta Be My Girl–The O’Jays
  • What Kind of Fool Do You Think I Am—Bill Deal and the Rhondels
  • 39-21-46 Shape—The Showmen
  • Double Shot (Of My Baby’s Love)—The Swingin’ Medallions
  • Apple, Peaches, Pumpkin Pie—Jay & the Techniques
  • I’ve Been Hurt—Bill Deal & the Rhondels
  • Treat Her Like a Lady–Cornelius Brothers & Sister Rose
  • (Your Love Keeps Lifting Me) Higher & Higher—Jackie Wilson

Without further ado, the first of two Carolina Beach Music countdowns begins now.

My first listing contains national Top 40 charting songs. These were originally Soul/R&B/Pop hit singles on Billboard’s Hot 100 chart. These tunes are now also considered CBM and have been adopted by those who are into Shag dancing.

10.  I Can’t Help Myself—The Four Tops  1965

One of Motown’s biggest singles of the 60s.  Ranked as the second biggest hit of 1965 by Billboard. One of the signature songs by the Four Tops.

9.    But It’s Alright—JJ Jackson  1966 & 1969

This song was a hit on two separate occasions: During 1966 and 1969. JJ Jackson is considered a one hit wonder.

8.    Gimme Little Sign—Brenton Wood   1967  

One of three Top 40 hits for Wood. Co-written by Joe Hooven, Alfred Smith and Brenton Wood. Released during the summer of love in 1967.

7.   With This Ring—The Platters  1967

Vocal group formed in 1952. Had 20 Top 40 hits during their career. “With This Ring” is now considered a classic wedding love song.

6.   Under the Boardwalk—The Drifters  1964

Song was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 2014.  Spent 3 weeks at #1 on the Cash Box R&B singles chart and peaked at #4 on the Billboard Hot 100.

5.  More Today Than Yesterday—Spiral Starecase  1969

Band originally from Sacramento, California. This feel-good song is a one hit wonder. Scored their only top 40 song back in the summer of ’69.

4.  Build Me Up Buttercup—The Foundations  1969

British soul band had the 9th biggest single of 1969 according to Billboard. A popular song this decade. Played at many wedding receptions and sporting events in 2025.

3.  This Old Heart of Mine (Is Weak for You)—Isley Brothers  1966

Soul group began as a sibling trio in the late 50s. Song was recorded on Motown’s Tamla label and featured Ronald Isley on lead vocals.

2.  What Does It Take (To Win Your Love for Me)—Jr. Walker & the All Stars  1969

Song was voted Top U.S. Soul Record of 1969. Has an outstanding saxophone solo. One of the biggest singles by Jr. Walker.

1.  My Girl—The Temptations   1965

Signature song by one of Motown Record’s biggest recording artists during the 60s.  I rate “My Girl” as the 5th best classic wedding song of the 20th century and #1 best Motown song from the Detroit years of the Motor City record company.

The second countdown is Classic CBM songs that were regional hits in Southeastern Atlantic coastal states from the mid 60s through the early 80s. Some of these songs may have also charted nationally on the Billboard Hot 100 but weren’t major hits throughout the U.S.

10.  You’re More Than a Number in My Little Red Book—The Drifters    1976

The last charting single for the R&B/Soul group actually happened in the U.K.  The Drifters were inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 1998.

9.    Ms. Grace—The Tymes   1974

Soul vocal group are one of the only artists to have just one chart-topping #1 hit in the U.S and the U.K. with different songs: “So In Love” in America & “Ms. Grace” in Great Britain.

8.    Sweet Virginia Breeze—Robbin Thompson & Steve Bassett. 1978

While collaborating in 1978, Richmond artists Steve Bassett and Robbin Thompson wrote “Sweet Virginia Breeze” during a rehearsal for their concert at Virginia Commonwealth University. In 2015, this anthem was designated the official popular state song of Virginia.

7.    May I—Bill Deal & the Rhondels  1969

Blue-eyed soul band from Virginia Beach, Virginia. This group covered multiple songs by the Tams. “May I” was originally recorded by Maurice Williams and the Zodiacs.

6.    Carolina Girls—General Johnson & the Chairmen of the Board  1980

Within the boundaries of North Carolina and South Carolina, this ode has remained a staple with radio airplay and among residents living in these two southern states.

5.    Ocean Boulevard—Band of Oz. 1982

A prominent band in the CBM genre. The actual Ocean Boulevard is a main highway that runs through Myrtle Beach, South Carolina.  In 1997, the group was inducted into the Beach Music Hall of Fame.

4.    Myrtle Beach Days—The Fantastic Shakers. 1980

Members of the North Carolina Music Hall of Fame. Inducted in 2017.  With Myrtle Beach being the birthplace of Shag clubs playing CBM at those establishments, this song is a favorite for those who reside along the Grand Strand of South Carolina.

3.    Summertime’s Calling Me—The Catalinas   1975

Charlotte, North Carolina CBM band was formed in the late 50s. “Summertime’s Calling Me” is regarded as one of the most influential and favorite beach music songs of all time.

2.   I Love Beach Music—The Embers

Quintessential CBM song. The band was started in Raleigh, North Carolina in 1958. They are one of the longest running beach music bands in the southern U.S. Were inducted into the North Carolina Music Hall of Fame in 2016.

1.   Be Young, Be Foolish, Be Happy—The Tams. 1980  

My #1 favorite classic CBM song of all-time is by the Tams.  The vocal group from Atlanta, Georgia formed in 1960 and still performs today, without any original members.

The Tams signature song is peppy, upbeat, full of sunshine and encourages folks to live life without regret. Without a doubt, I rate “Be Young, Be Foolish, Be Happy” as the #1 best classic “Carolina Beach Music” song ever made.

That concludes up my countdown of what I consider to be the best classic Carolina Beach Music songs.

I realize that my listing of songs in this category was written from my point of view and is subjective. My countdowns of top CBM performances are based completely upon my personal humble opinions.

If you were creating a similar listing of outstanding Carolina Beach Music songs, your tabulation may be totally different from my selections. There are no right or wrong answers. I welcome your thoughts and comments below.

I want to publicly thank my friend Jerry English of Roanoke who provided information to me for this article. He has been a DJ for hundreds of CBM gigs with Shag dancing over the past 40 years in the Roanoke Valley.

I leave you with the closing lyrics of “I Love Beach Music” written by Jackie Gore and recorded by the Embers.  Rock on!

“I love beach music, Every single day of my life, I love beach music, That old beer drinking music, shagging kind of music like you hear at OD, I’m talking about music by the Townes, the Clovers, the Catalinas, the Embers, I love beach music, You know that I do.”

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American Idol, Artist Profiles, Concert Reviews, Contemporary Christian Music, Music, Pop Music, Virginia Artists

Jeslynn Gelaine Music: All My Life I’ve Been a Dreamer

17-year-old Roanoke, Virginia native Jeslynn Gelaine has always been a dreamer.  And one of her dreams became reality just 4 days ago when the singer-songwriter’s debut professional music recording “Calm Me Down” was released as a single.

All photos and videos in this article were provided courtesy of Jeslynn Gelaine unless otherwise noted.

The music artist’s full name is Jeslynn Gelaine Reynolds, and she elected to drop the surname Reynolds at the beginning of her budding musical career.

I asked Reynolds about the significance on using her middle name as a music artist. She responded, “Jeslynn Gelaine is my way of paying tribute to my mom and Mimi, two talented singers who shared a middle name. Following my Mimi’s passing in August 2022, I’m passionate about honoring and carrying her legacy through Gelaine.”

Singing has always been a huge part of Gelaine’s life.  Her mom, Rebecca Reynolds, shared with me that, “Jeslynn has been singing since she could talk and also began singing harmony at age three.” 

Gelaine also traveled on the road and sang with her parents Adam & Rebecca Reynolds in full time evangelical ministry for 7 ½ years when Jeslynn was between the ages of 3 and 10.

In 2018, the Reynolds family settled in the Roanoke Valley and began ministry with Wake the World Church (WTW) in Salem, Virginia. Adam Reynolds is lead pastor while Rebecca Reynolds is minister and worship leader at the church.

Adam and Rebecca Reynolds are also accomplished gospel music singer-songwriters. Their daughter Jeslynn has also been a worship leader with WTW for the past 7 years.

In August, Jeslynn will be starting her senior year in high school as a homeschooled student. I asked Gelaine if she had any plans after she graduates from high school and she replied,” I’m unsure about college, but I have a peace about music. I trust God’s plan and believe he wants me to use my gift full-time.”

Another dream came true for the music artist when she was 15 years old. Jeslynn’s hope of singing on the American Idol reality TV show started almost two years ago.

 In August 2023, Gelaine auditioned virtually in front of producers for a chance to be on American Idol (AI). Her audition was successful that day and Jeslynn was set for the next round of qualification.

On to Nashville in November 2023, Jeslynn went for her audition in front of American Idol’s main judges:  Lionel Richie, Luke Bryan, and Katy Perry. Gelaine selected, “Still Rolling Stones” by Lauren Daigle to sing for her audition.

Jeslynn had another winning performance and received an American Idol “Golden Ticket.”  That meant that Gelaine would be one of just 150 singers going to Hollywood out of over 6,000 other contestants and she would actually be performing on the main AI show.

During Hollywood week, Jeslynn sang “Don’t You Worry ‘Bout a Thing” by Stevie Wonder. She again auditioned in front of the main AI judges Richie, Bryan and Perry.

Before singing the Motown song, Jeslynn addressed the judges with the following quote: “I want to be the next American Idol because I can say that I have truly just dedicated my whole life to music and songwriting. And this means everything to me, and I know this is what God has called me to do and that is why I’m singing on this stage today.”

 While Gelaine didn’t move on in the competition, she received high praise from the judges. After the performance, Katy Perry gave exceptional credit to the Roanoke singer, providing encouragement to Jeslynn who was just 15 at the time of this audition.

I first learned about Gelaine just after the AI “Hollywood Week” episode aired in the spring of 2024. WSLS TV channel 10 Roanoke featured the sensational singer with a news story outlining her musical story and the big dreams she’s accomplished. That feature can be viewed here via WSLS 10.

Around 13 months later, I had the opportunity to meet Jeslynn and her parents Adam and Rebecca Reynolds when Gelaine was performing in concert with the Strawberry Festival at Elmwood Park in Downtown Roanoke. The singer was the headlining artist for this event.

Accompanying Gelaine at her May 3rd Roanoke concert were 4 band members and a background vocalist. Personnel members and instruments played are listed below:

  • Bryan Davis-Piano
  • Eddy Sanders-Bass
  • Tonio Williams-Drums
  • Roger Graves Jr.-Guitar
  • Rebecca Reynolds-Background Vocalist

An unfortunate thing happened on that first Saturday in May 2025:  A big rain storm with thunder and lightning hit downtown Roanoke around 20 minutes into Jeslynn’s show. The Strawberry Festival administrators stopped the concert after just 3 and a half songs were performed.

Obviously, Jeslynn was deeply disappointed about the rain storm and abrupt ending of her concert: she had to make lemonade out of lemons.  Of the songs that Gelaine sang that afternoon, I made short video clips from two of her songs.

This first clip above is an original song Jeslynn wrote called “Song Outta Me”.

The second video I made is of her recently released single, “Calm Me Down.”  

The genesis for the lyrics of “Calm Me Down” came from Jeslynn when she attended a Songhouse summer camp in 2024. Gelaine shares co-writing credit with 4 other individuals who collaborated with her last summer at this music event.

Released just 4 days ago, “Calm Me Down” is available on all streaming platforms and can be purchased via Apple and Amazon music services. The link for Jeslynn’s YouTube channel is here.

On Tuesday July 8, 2025, Gelaine was interviewed on the WDBJ Roanoke TV program called 7@four by the station’s host Melissa Gaona. The WDBJ7 TV conversation video follows:

After Gaona completed her interview with Jeslynn, the Roanoke singer-songwriter sang her debut single “Calm Me Down” on the WDBJ7 TV show. Gelaine’s performance is found below.

After meeting Jeslynn at her Strawberry Festival concert, I sent her questions via email to answer for this article. She and I also utilized Microsoft’s Messenger online text communication for clarification.  My questions and her answers are found below.

DJ Dave:  How do you describe the genre or genres of music that you sing?  My guess would be a combination of pop and country.

Jeslynn: “Well, I’m going to be honest…lol! I don’t necessarily put my music in a “box” or genre as of now. I just write about life and put lyrics and whatever melody comes in my heart to it. I call my music my musical diary! I dabble in a lot of different sounds.”

DJ Dave:  I have gathered from listening to your written songs that you attempt to express your feelings about a subject, in a real and honest way.  And at the same time, you want to convey something positive to the listener of your songs?  Is that accurate?    

Jeslynn: “I want to give people something to relate to when they listen to my music. If they’ve experienced what I’ve experienced whether that be an emotion, an experience, etc. I want them to not feel alone and feel like they can have an anthem. I don’t just write about sad experiences. I also want listeners to just have something to “jam” too and feel happy about.

 I also want them to know by my Christian songs that there is hope through Jesus and they don’t have time to stay there in that negative emotion. Jesus is the only way I’ve healed through life’s tough obstacles.”

DJ Dave: When I met you after your Strawberry Festival concert, I asked you about the quote at the top of your social media pages, “All my life I’ve been a dreamer.” Can you briefly describe the significance behind this meaningful statement?

Jeslynn: That quote is from my song “Dreamer”, which is about overcoming fear and chasing dreams. Ironically, I wrote it two weeks before my first American Idol audition which marked a significant step in my career.

DJ Dave: I like your quote, “Songwriting is a therapeutic outlet for you and medicine for your soul.”  Please give me more insight into this meaning?

Jeslynn: My songs are a musical diary, allowing others to relate and feel less alone in life’s journeys. I pray God’s gift to me can also be a gift to others through lyrics.

DJ Dave: With your duties as worship leader with Wake the World church, what are ways that you prepare your own heart before leading folks during a Sunday morning service?

Jeslynn: My mom and I seek the Holy Spirit’s leading when choosing songs for Sunday. I also prioritize daily Bible study and prayer as I prepare my heart.

DJ Dave: Your mom, Rebecca, shared with me that you started singing as soon as you learned to talk and began singing harmony at age 3. At what point in your life did you decide that you wanted to be a singer and utilize the talents God has given you for Christian service?

Jeslynn: Music has been my lifelong passion and has never really been a question for me. After being part of American Idol and SongHouseCo, I feel even more confident that music is what I’m supposed to do.

DJ Dave: What are your dreams, goals and aspirations in relation to singing and music as you become an adult next year?

Jeslynn: I aspire to release more original music, put out an album, and perform at the Grand Ole Opry, and award shows. Ultimately, I just want what God has for me.

When I saw Jeslynn at her rain shorten Roanoke concert last month, I was impressed by her powerful vocals. I also realized that her songwriting is complex, challenging and provoking, but also upbeat, inspirational and encouraging.

From my perspective, Jeslynn has a bright future in her chosen musical profession.  Her enthusiasm and passion to foster empowerment through music is outstanding.

I also appreciate Jeslynn’s desire to be a positive witness with her Christian faith and a willingness to tackle hard topics as a songwriter. As a Christian believer myself, I find Gelaine’s outlook to be refreshing.

Obviously, no one knows what the future holds in store for this young Virginia singer. I am confident that Jeslynn Gelaine’s music career will go in a favorable direction as she continues to seek God’s guidance for her life. Rock on!

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Music, Music Countdowns, Pop Music, Radio, Retro Rock, Rock Music, Wedding Love Songs

Popular Classic Wedding Love Songs  

Photo above is DJ Dave in July 2022 when I was the DJ for the wedding reception of my niece Lydia and her husband Roger at Shady Lane Farm, New Gloucester, Maine.  Photo courtesy of Paige Lucas Photography. 

Since my retirement as Manager with Carilion Clinic in 2017, I have provided DJ services for many wedding receptions over the past 8 years.

To be a superb DJ when working wedding receptions, a person needs to be familiar with many types of musical genres and be flexible selecting songs to play at these events.

With this month’s article, I will be counting down what I consider to be the best classic wedding love songs.  The time frame for songs that I selected for this article will range from the mid 60s to the late 80s.

Please note: my article is not a definitive listing of all various types of songs played at weddings and/or wedding receptions.  The tunes that I have selected are all from my personal experience as a veteran DJ.

Some songs should never be played at wedding receptions. I attended at a wedding reception a few years ago and the DJ hired played “Free Bird” by Lynyrd Skynyrd. While this is an outstanding Southern Rock song, the lyrics were totally inappropriate for a wedding celebration.

One caveat about banning some songs being played at a wedding celebration: When a bride and groom chooses a first dance song that isn’t “wedding worthy”, this DJ always defers to the couple getting married and plays their special first dance song.

In my own personal experience, I have played songs that I felt were strange for first dance tunes:  However, I did play the requested songs the bride and groom selected: it was their special day and not mine.  The two interesting songs below:

  • Stuck With You—Huey Lewis & the News:  “We thought about someone else, but neither one took the bait, we thought about breakin’ up, now we know it’s much too late, I’m so happy to be stuck with you, ’cause I can see that you’re happy to be stuck with me.”
  • S.O.S.—ABBA: What happened to our love? It used to be so good, the love you gave me, nothing else can save me, S.O.S. When you’re gone, how can I even try to go on?”

There are four basic types of songs played during a wedding reception:

  1. Specific songs selected by the bride and groom for first dances, when entering and/or leaving event locations, and other meaningful tunes the newly married couple request the DJ to play throughout the event.
  • Appropriate songs selected by the DJ as guests arrive and wait inside reception venue for the bride, groom and wedding party to enter facility.
  • Music played during dinner. During this time, I tend to play soft pop, slow-tempo ballads, and acoustic love songs to create a calm atmosphere for guests to enjoy their meals and conversations.
  • Songs the DJ plays for folks to dance. Mostly up-tempo songs with a few ballads sprinkled in for couples who want slow dancing.

Songs on my countdown are in two categories: Numbers 2 and 3 above.

Within the parameters of songs that I play before and during dinner times, my countdown listing includes songs from a couple different silos:

•       Songs that actually mention the words wedding or weddings in the lyrics.

•       Songs that have positive and/or affirming lyrics about love.

Please note that I purposely left out songs on my countdown that are played purely by a DJ for the sole purpose of dancing. Those types of tunes may end up in a separate music blog message in the future.

Songs like “Signed, Sealed, Delivered, I’m Yours” by Stevie Wonder and “September” by Earth Wind & Fire are superb wedding dance tunes. However, DJs should hesitate before playing these songs during non-danceable segments of wedding receptions events.

Also excluded for consideration for my countdown are songs with lyrics describing marriage and/or longing for marriage to happen in the future.  In my humble opinion, the songs listed directly below are all good tunes but not appropriate to play at any wedding reception.

  • Wedding Bell Blues—The 5th Dimension
  • That’s the Way I’ve Always Heard It Should Be—Carly Simon
  • Band of Gold—Freda Payne
  • Worst That Could Happen—Brooklyn Bridge
  • Wouldn’t It Be Nice—The Beach Boys
  • White Wedding—Billy Idol
  • Jackson—Johnny Cash & June Carter
  • The River—Bruce Springsteen
  • I Love You—Climax Blues Band
  • Rings—Cymarron
  • Keep Your Hands to Yourself—The Georgia Satellites
  • (You Never Can Tell) C’est la Vie—Emmy Lou Harris

With the next three sections of songs, I have selections from the 60s, 70s and 80s that didn’t make my countdown but are quality songs to play at all non-danceable times during wedding receptions. These songs are not ranked and placed in a random order.

Excellent Songs Outside the Top 25 Countdown from the 60s:

  • Love Can Make You Happy—Mercy
  • L-O-V-E—Nat King Cole
  • You’ve Made Me So Very Happy—Blood Sweat & Tears
  • My Cherie Amour—Stevie Wonder
  • (You Make me Feel Like) A Natural Woman—Aretha Franklin
  • And I Love Her—The Beatles
  • My Special Angel—The Vogues
  • The Way You Look Tonight—Frank Sinatra
  • Something—The Beatles
  • Chapel of Love—The Dixie Cups
  • Can’t Take My Eyes Off You—Frankie Valli

Excellent Songs Outside the Top 25 Countdown from the 70s:

  • First Time Ever I Saw Your Face—Roberta Flack
  • How Deep Is Your Love—The Bee Gees
  • Maybe I’m Amazed—Paul McCartney
  • Love Will Keep Us Together—Captain & Tennille
  • Wonderful Tonight—Eric Clapton
  • Bridge Over Troubled Water—Simon & Garfunkel
  • You Are Everything—The Stylistics
  • Your Smiling Face—James Taylor
  • The Air That I Breath—The Hollies
  • Make It with You—Bread
  • (They Long to Be) Close to You—The Carpenters
  • Nobody Does It Better—Carly Simon
  • Annie’s Song—John Denver

Excellent Songs Outside the Top 25 Countdown from the 80s:

  • Time After Time—Cyndi Lauper
  • Heaven—Bryan Adams
  • In Your Eyes—Peter Gabriel  
  • Tonight, I Celebrate My Love—Peabo Bryson & Roberta Flack
  • The Promise—When in Rome
  • Biggest Part of Me—Ambrosia
  • Every Little Thing She Does is Magic—The Police
  • Right Here Waiting—Richard Marx
  • Lady–Kenny Rogers
  • You’re the Inspiration—Chicago
  • For Your Eyes Only—Sheena Easton
  • You Are My Lady–Freddie Jackson
  • Up Where We Belong–Joe Cocker & Jennifer Warnes
  • Eternal Flame—The Bangles

I recommend playing any of the songs that I have listed above during non-dancing segments of wedding receptions. Of course, a bride or groom could pick one of these songs for their first dance. For those instances, many of these tunes do make outstanding choices for slow dancing.

The same methodology can be applied for the 25 songs in the countdown below. All countdown songs are perfect for bride and groom first dances at any wedding reception.

With my experience as a DJ for many wedding receptions over the years, I now submit my classic wedding love songs countdown:

25.  Truly—Lionel Richie: 1982

Debut solo single for singer-songwriter Lionel Richie, who wrote this song and co-produced it with James Anthony Carmichael. The artist won a Grammy Award for “Best Male Pop Vocal Performance” for this tune.

24.  Unchained Melody—The Righteous Brothers:  1965

Music by Alex North and lyrics by Hy Zaret. Bobby Hatfield of the Righteous Brothers sings lead vocals on song. Became a hit twice, the second time in 1990.

23.  Faithfully—Journey: 1983

The song was written by Journey’s keyboardist Jonathan Cain. Powerful vocals by Steve Perry.  A quintessential 80s power ballad.

22.  Endless Love—Lionel Richie & Diana Ross: 1981

While still a member of the Commodores, Lionel Richie wrote the song and it was featured in the film “Endless Love.”  The duet with Diana Ross is rated as the “Greatest song duet of all-time” by Billboard.

21.  Always—Atlantic Starr: 1987

Love ballad written by David Lewis, Jonathan Lewis and Wayne Lewis. Peaked at #1 on Billboard Hot 100. Biggest hit single for Atlantic Starr.

20.  With This Ring—The Platters: 1967

Last Top 40 hit for the Platters was written by Richard “Popcorn” Wylie, Luther Dixon, and Tony Hester. It’s considered a core song with Carolina “Beach Music” and is a favorite song for shag dancers.

19.  For All We Know—The Carpenters:  1970

Soft pop rock song has music credited to Fred Karlin and lyrics from Robb Wilson and James Griffin.  Karen Carpenter has outstanding vocals on this selection.

18.  Always and Forever—Heatwave: 1978

Rod Temperton, keyboardist and principal songwriter for Heatwave, wrote this classic tune for his British-based multinational funk-disco band. This ballad has lead vocals by Johnnie Wilder, Jr.

17.  Here and Now—Luther Vandross:  1989

The R&B Pop singer won a Grammy Award for Best Male R&B Vocal Performance with his signature ballad. Written by David L. Elliott, Terry Steele, and Charles White.

16.  This Will Be (An Everlasting Love)—Natalie Cole:  1975

This up-tempo wedding anthem was written by Chuck Jackson and Marvin Yancy, with Richard Evans creating the musical arrangement.  Natalie Cole won a Grammy Award for “Best Female R&B Vocal Performance” with her huge hit single.

15.  Three Times a Lady—The Commodores:  1978

Smooth signature love ballad was penned by Lionel Richie, lead singer of the Commodores. Reached #1 on the Billboard Hot 100 for two weeks during the summer of 1978.

14.  You Make Me Feel Brand New—The Stylistics: 1974

 One of the Stylistics signature songs was co-written by Thom Bell and Linda Creed. The R&B love song features vocals by baritone singer Airrion Love and falsetto of lead vocalist Russell Thompkins Jr.

13.  How Sweet It Is (To Be Loved by You)—James Taylor:  1975

Cover rendition of a Marvin Gaye 1965 hit. It was written by the Motown songwriting team of Holland–Dozier–Holland. James Taylor’s superb guitar and smooth vocals are complimented by David Sanborn on saxophone and Carly Simon with backup harmony vocals.

12.  God Only Knows—The Beach Boys: 1966

Co-written by Brian Wilson and Tony Asher. Song renowned for its beautiful harmonic structure and innovative complexity. Rolling Stone magazine ranks it at number 11 on their “500 Greatest Songs of All Time” listing.

11.  You Are the Sunshine of My Life—Stevie Wonder:  1973

Progressive soul. The song written by Stevie Wonder was the second consecutive single to reach #1 on the Billboard Hot 100. Singer-songwriter won a Grammy Award for “Best Male Pop Vocal Performance” for his tune. I rate it as the 22nd best single of ’73.

10.  Let’s Stay Together—Al Green:  1972

Co-written by Al Green, Willie Mitchell and Al Jackson, Jr.  This superb soul single is rated as the 60th greatest song of all-time by Rolling Stone and I rank it as the 7th best single of 1972. “Let’s Stay Together” is in the Grammy Hall of Fame and the Library of Congress, National Recording Registry.

9.    You Are So Beautiful—Joe Cocker:  1975

Gospel & Soul singer Billy Preston co-wrote this tune with Bruce Fisher.  Joe Cocker’s cover had a slower tempo than Preston’s original faster version. It became the Englishman’s biggest solo hit single on the Billboard Hot 100.

8.    In My Life—The Beatles: 1965

This melodic selection is credited as a John Lennon and Paul McCartney written track.   From the Beatles “Rubber Soul” album. Rolling Stone magazine ranks it at #5 on their “100 Best Beatles Song” list. “In My Life” has become a staple for wedding receptions in the 21st century.

7.    Your Song—Elton John:  1971

Penned by lyricist Bernie Taupin and musician Elton John. It was the first top 10 hit on the Billboard Hot 100 for the English singer-songwriter. “Your Song” was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 1998.

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

Written by Billy Joel. Features outstanding saxophone by 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. I rate the song as the 17th best saxophone single of the 60s & 70s.

5. My Girl—The Temptations: 1965

Written and produced by the Miracles members Smokey Robinson and Ronald White.  First #1 single for the Motown vocal group. Was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 1998 and placed in the National Recording Registry by the Library of Congress during 2017. “My Girl” is a signature song for the Temptations.

4.   Wedding Song (There is Love)—Noel Paul Stookey:  1971 

Noel Paul Stookey first gained musical popularity with the folk-rock trio Peter, Paul and Mary. He wrote “Wedding Song (There is Love)” in 1969 and first performed it for his friend Peter Yarrow.  I rate this melodic tune as the 2nd best one hit wonder of 1971.

3.   We’ve Only Just Begun—The Carpenters:  1970

Originally this song was in a wedding-themed television commercial for a California bank and was co-written by Roger Nichols (music) and Paul Williams (lyrics). The Carpenters scored their second consecutive top 2 hit with this soft rock single. Karen Carpenter shines with her vocals on “We’ve Only Just Begun.”

2.   Longer—Dan Fogelberg:  1980

Written and recorded by singer-songwriter Dan Fogelberg. “Longer” is a melodic love song, with flowing harmonies and sparse instrumentation. I rate it as the 4th best single of 1980. Fogelberg’s crown jewel became a staple at thousands of weddings in the 80s and is still popular among some marriage ceremonies this decade.

  1. Never My Love—The Association:  1967

My number 1 classic wedding song is “Never My Love” by the Association.  This soft rock single was co-written by siblings Don and Dick Addrisi. In 1999, Broadcast Music, Inc. (BMI) ranked this tune as the second most played song on radio & TV in the 20th century.

Musically, this single features multiple trumpets and French horns, as well as exceptional saxophone playing by John Johnson. In addition, two guitars, piano and drums round out this musical masterpiece.

The Association’s love song reached #1 on the Cashbox Top 100 and #2 on the Billboard Hot 100 during the fall of 1967.  I rate this single as the 5th best sunshine pop single of the 60s and 9th best top 40 single of 1967. Without a doubt, “Never My Love” by the Association is my #1 best classic wedding love song of the 20th century.

That wraps up my countdown of what I consider to be the best classic wedding love songs from the mid 60s through the late 80s. I recommend playing any of the top 25 songs from my countdown for non-dancing segments of wedding receptions.

I realize 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 wedding love songs, your tabulation may be totally different from my selections.

What do you consider to be best wedding reception love songs from 1964 until 1989? There are no right or wrong answers. I welcome your thoughts.

If you know of anyone that is getting married, I hope you will share this message with any engaged couples looking for song suggestions for an upcoming wedding reception.

I leave you with the opening lyrics of “Wedding Song (There Is Love)” by Noel Paul Stookey:

“He is now to be among you, at the calling of your hearts, rest assured this troubadour is acting on His part. The union of your spirits here has caused Him to remain, for whenever two or more of you are gathered in His name, there is love.”

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Album Review, Americana, Artist Profiles, Folk, Music, Pop Music, rock, Virginia Artists

Caleb Meyer:  Most of the Days EP: Now Released

Since I started publishing DJ Dave’s Musical Musings in 2018, I have regularly written about musical artists from a variety of musical genres who perform in the Roanoke area and throughout the state of Virginia. With this in mind, I am featuring an up-and-coming Americana folk-rock artist.

For my first music blog of 2025, I am glad to introduce to you musician and singer-songwriter Caleb Meyer.  This artist is from Roanoke, Virginia and has just released a 5-song EP called “Most of the Days.”

Meyer is a native of Roanoke and is 25 years old. Besides living in South Carolina and Colorado, Caleb has spent the majority of his life residing in Virginia.

I first met Meyer when he was a student at Hidden Valley High School in Roanoke, when his family started attending Anglican parish, Church of the Holy Spirit (CHS) where I have worshipped since 2002. I got to know Caleb well during my time as a volunteer small group leader with the CHS senior high youth group.

After Meyer graduated from Hidden Valley High School, he studied audio engineering and music business from 2018 to 2022. After beginning his professional career in Colorado, Caleb moved back to Roanoke and started utilizing his audio engineering skills.

I recently spoke with Church of the Holy Spirit (CHS) Chief of Staff Tim Henderson, and he told me that Meyer was hired to work in the CHS Audio/Visual department in 2022. Caleb has flourished with various duties such as audio engineering and heading up live streaming of church services over the past 3 years.

Quigg Lawrence, CHS Senior Pastor and Bishop in the Anglican Church says “Caleb is like a Swiss army knife, and functions well with any task he is assigned within the CHS worship arts ministry.”

All of the professional skills Meyer has gained over the past few years have been beneficial to his budding singing career. Caleb has amassed audio equipment and uses it to mix and master recordings of his own music inside the comfort of his own home.

 Meyer can also freelance and produce music for other local Roanoke artists at his home studio. With the growing music scene in the Roanoke Valley, Caleb is hoping to tap into recording, mixing and mastering music by fellow Virginia singers and musicians.

Since 2022, Meyer has a history working with Nashville record producer and engineer Evan Sieling, world-renowned instrumentalist Scott Mulvahill, and Artimus Pyle of Lynyrd Skynyrd. Some of Caleb’s professional sound credits are listed below:

  • A Robin Built a Nest on Daddy’s Grave–Bent Mountain
  • Say You’re Gone–Luke Lively
  • Mushroom Song–Landon Carder
  • Most of the Days–Caleb Meyer
  • Peaks–Brenidy O’Dea

The outstanding audio engineering skills of Meyer were evident as I listened to Caleb’s new EP called “Most of the Days.”   It is impressive that Meyer wrote lyrics to all of the songs, sings on every track, played acoustic guitar, then mixed, and produced this EP himself. Credit goes to Evan Sieling for mastering the 5 songs.

Released on December 23, 2024, “Most of the Days” does have input from some fellow Roanoke area musicians. These guys play a variety of instruments which gives the album a full, rich sound. Acoustic guitar was handled by Meyer on the EP.

Below are the names of the 5 tracks on “Most of the Days” by Caleb + Co.

  • Hard to Say
  • Convicted (Estranged)
  • I Might Understand
  • Suffer Well
  • Coming Through

As I listened to the tracks on Caleb’s “Most of the Days” EP for the first time, I realized the tracks were an outstanding mix of musical genres:  Rock, Pop, Folk and Americana.  To hear Meyer’s music, you can access via these sites: YouTube, Apple Music, Amazon and Spotify.

Just after New Year’s Day 2025, I met Caleb at Mill Mountain Coffee in downtown Roanoke to discuss his new EP and glean information for this blog article. During our time together, Meyer shared with me about his music career, producing songs for other artists and his desire to one day create a recording studio in Roanoke.

After my interview with Meyer, I emailed him a list of questions about on his music career and life experience highlights. Caleb’s responses to my questions are found below:

DJ Dave: At what age did you start having aspirations of becoming a singer-songwriter, musician and recording artist? Briefly describe how you came about your decision to be in the music industry.

Caleb: When I was 6 years old, I wrote my first song called “Burn the Idols”. As bad as that song was (and it was BAD), it was the start of a great passion for me. Soon after writing the lyrics, my parents got me a guitar so I could start putting some music to it. My dad taught me my first few chords on guitar, and I went on to continue to teach myself from there.

 DJ Dave: Now as a musician and singer-songwriter, how do you classify the type of music that you perform? Why have you selected the multiple musical genres you sing and record?

 Caleb: I call my own style folk-rock and/or alternative. I have a pretty eclectic music taste, and that shows in my writing. That is probably why I am comfortable working in so many different genres, but some genres I am definitely more comfortable in than others. Bands like Mumford and Sons and The Lumineers were big inspirations for me, as well as artists like Ed Sheeran and Jon Bellion.

 DJ Dave: When writing new songs, do you have a particular type of subject matter you prefer or do you pen a variety of topics with your compositions?

 Caleb: It is more difficult for me to write happy songs, but I still try to incorporate a sense of hope into all my songs. Most of my lyrics have a bittersweet tone to them. The theme of this EP specifically could be described as “learning and growing from pain and past mistakes”.

On a surface level, this EP was inspired by a breakup. But if you listen to the lyrics, the content goes much deeper than that.

DJ Dave: Being an indie artist, you write, sing, record, produce, mix and master your own songs. Can you describe the process of totally creating new music?

Caleb: Whether it’s one of my own songs or a song for a production client, the process always starts as a demo or voice memo recording. From there, I normally start to develop a vision for the instrumentation and structure I want the song to have.

Next, I will record whatever instrument that will act as the backbone of the song first. For my own music, this is often acoustic guitar. After that, I will record a scratch track of the lead vocal so I can start building the rest of the instrumentation around it.

Once this is complete, I will go back and record the final vocals and put any final touches on the sound design. Once the instrumental and vocals are in a good place, it’s time to mix and master!

 DJ Dave: On your recently released “Most of the Days” EP, who are the musicians that accompanied you and what instruments did they play on your latest project?

Caleb:    EP Personnel:

  • Parker Brown: Keys
  • Ayden Young: Banjo and double bass
  • Nathan Folta: Violin
  • Taylor Folta: Cajon
  • Caleb Meyer: Guitar and vocals

Dj Dave:  In the summer of 2025, you shared with me that you are planning to perform some live gigs with some fellow musicians in the Roanoke Valley. What types of venues are you playing this summer?

 Caleb: The possible gigs I’ve got lined up for the band are backyard concerts that my friends will host. Intimate venues with close friends, and whoever else is wants to come. I will likely have a few gigs at restaurants and breweries in the Roanoke area as well, but those come up sporadically. I will be posting about any upcoming events on my Facebook page.

Looking ahead to the future, Meyer has a couple of goals in relation to his own songs, as well as recording other Roanoke Valley/Southwest Virginia artist’s music.

  • His short-term goal is working towards creating a recording studio with sound equipment inside of a mobile trailer. Meyer could then record local Roanoke artists, plus expand his services to Central and Southwestern Virginia.
  • A long-term goal that Meyer has is to create a free-standing building to house a commercial recording studio in Roanoke by the year 2030. This would allow musical artists from all across the Mid-Atlantic region to utilize this type of facility.

The official Caleb Meyer Blue Ridge Fellows photo. Courtesy Caroline Crawford.

One take away I received from my time speaking with Meyer is his desire to be a positive Christian witness with every aspect with his music and audio engineering duties.  Colossians 3:23 (English Standard Version) sums up Caleb’s belief: “Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men.”

As a Christian myself, I appreciated learning about Meyer’s dedication to rely on faith in his interactions with others. His aspiration to follow biblical teachings is encouraging to me. Without a doubt, I feel that Meyer is heading in a positive direction.

Obviously, no one knows what the future will hold. I look forward seeing how Meyer’s musical career blossoms and his desire to create recording studio opportunities for other artists in the next few years. Caleb’s future looks promising and bright here in Roanoke.  Rock on!

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