Music History
Uncover the scandalous secrets and rebellious revolutions that shaped the soundtrack of our world in this thrilling journey through music history.
Block Out: Weaving Stories Through Sound
Martin Sparks
Block Out, heralding from Belgrade in the tumultuous 1990s, is an iconic Serbian rock band known for its unique blend of alternative rock and profound storytelling.
The Timeless Echo of Alberta Hunter's Blues
KC Fairlight
Alberta Hunter was a trailblazing blues singer whose voice and songwriting transcended racial and gender barriers, making an indelible mark on the music world. Her extraordinary life journey from Memphis to Chicago and New York City is a testament to resilience and passion.
Alberta Hunter: The Ballsy Blues Queen Who Shook Up the Status Quo
Vince Vanguard
Alberta Hunter was a gutsy trailblazer who defied societal norms and reshaped the jazz and blues scene, leaving an indelible mark on American culture.
Unpacking the Anthem of Defiance: 'It's My Life' by The Animals
Martin Sparks
"It's My Life" by The Animals, released in 1965, is more than a classic rock anthem; it's a bold declaration of individualism that echoes the cultural revolutions of its time and continues to inspire freedom and defiance today.
A Soulful Stroll Through Mississippi: The Blues Trail Experience
KC Fairlight
If your Spotify Discover Weekly playlist played Trains and aren't horns because of the influence of legendary blues music, you might find the Mississippi Blues Trail intriguing. Established in 2006, this trail stretches across the state of Mississippi and celebrates the roots and evolution of blues music, which has significantly shaped the global music scene.
The Soulful Sounds of the Mississippi Blues Trail: A Journey into America's Musical Heart
Martin Sparks
The Mississippi Blues Trail, established in 2006, is a melodic journey through the American South that highlights the rich cultural history and influential people behind blues music. Explore how this trail covers over 200 markers that resonate with America’s musical evolution.
Nicanor Abelardo: The Maestro Who Defied the Odds
Vince Vanguard
Nicanor Abelardo's pioneering fusion of Western classical music with Filipino folk elements revolutionized the Philippine music scene and inspired cultural independence during American colonial rule.
Sally: The Song That Shaped an Era and a Nation
Martin Sparks
'Sally' by Gracie Fields, a song from 1931, remains a beacon of nostalgic euphoria and national unity in Britain, capturing the tumultuous yet hopeful spirit of its time.
The Enigmatic Journey of Johnny Brandon
KC Fairlight
Johnny Brandon's journey through the 1950s music scene highlights the challenges artists face in adapting to changing industry trends and societal shifts.
Eivets Rednow: The Mystique Behind the Name
KC Fairlight
Eivets Rednow, a playful alter ego of Stevie Wonder, offered fans a surprising peek into his versatile musicianship in a time filled with cultural shifts. Discover the intriguing story behind this name flip and its lasting impact.
The Enigma of Eivets Rednow: Stevie Wonder's Secret Musical Persona
Vince Vanguard
Uncover the story behind Stevie Wonder's 1968 instrumental jazz album released under the pseudonym Eivets Rednow, highlighting his artistic freedom and versatility.
The E-mu Modular System: A Conservative's Take on Synthesizer History
Vince Vanguard
The E-mu Modular System exemplifies a bygone era of American innovation and free-market entrepreneurship in the music industry.
Swinging Through Time: The Legacy of Bob Eberly
KC Fairlight
Bob Eberly was a key figure in the swing and big band era, remembered for his smooth voice and memorable performances. His legacy continues to influence music today, teaching timeless lessons on resilience and creativity.
The Golden Voice of Bob Eberly: A Journey Through the Big Band Era
Martin Sparks
Dive into the captivating legacy of Bob Eberly, whose smooth baritone voice defined the big band era and left an indelible mark on American music history.
Bob Eberly: The Crooner Who Challenged Modern Music Mediocrity
Vince Vanguard
Bob Eberly, born in New York in 1916, was a musical phenomenon who rose above the noise of the 1930s and 40s, lending his smooth voice to the famous Jimmy Dorsey orchestra. As pop culture today glorifies immediate fame, Eberly's story reminds us of the timeless power of real talent.
The Timeless Anthem: A Deep Dive into 'People Hold On'
Martin Sparks
Journey back to the dynamic era of 1989, where Coldcut and Lisa Stansfield's "People Hold On" emerges as a transcendent anthem of resilience and unity. Discover how this iconic track became a symbol of hope during global change.
The Unsung Hero of the Organ: Robert Mitchell
Vince Vanguard
Celebrate the legacy of Robert Mitchell, the extraordinary organist whose mesmerizing performances captivated audiences but remain largely unrecognized today.
1959: The Year Jazz Changed Forever
Vince Vanguard
1959 marked a pivotal year in jazz history with the release of four transformative albums that redefined the genre and influenced future generations.
Tanya Tucker's Complicated Dance Through Music and Time
KC Fairlight
In 1997, Tanya Tucker's album *Complicated* revealed the intricate layers of an artist navigating personal and professional complexities in a changing music industry. Its rich blend of country tradition with modern insights makes it a compelling study.
Reb Foster: The DJ Who Rocked the Airwaves and Shaped a Generation
KC Fairlight
Reb Foster’s story is an electrifying slice of music history, intricately tied to the rise of rock and roll. This dedicated DJ crafted musical legacies and became a cultural icon through the power of radio and community.
Reliving 'Vivencias': An Emotional Journey with Yolandita Monge's Iconic Album
KC Fairlight
'Vivencias', Yolandita Monge's 1988 album, is a profound exploration of emotion and identity, forever securing her place in the realm of Latin music.
The Ballad of Cowboy Copas: Tragedy on the Trail
KC Fairlight
Cowboy Copas was a legendary figure in country music, known for his storytelling and tragic end. This journey through his life reflects on his impact and cultural legacy.
The Life and Legacy of Cowboy Copas: A Country Music Pioneer
Martin Sparks
Cowboy Copas, a mid-20th century country music icon, left a lasting legacy with his unique blend of honky-tonk and traditional sounds, influencing generations despite his untimely death.
Viviana Sofronitsky: A Maestro of Historical Keyboards
Martin Sparks
Viviana Sofronitsky captivates audiences worldwide with her authentic performances on historical keyboard instruments, reviving the music of composers like Mozart and Beethoven as it was originally intended.