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no-reply95 · 3 years

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Jealous Guys

Something I’ve been thinking about for a while now is the different ways jealousy manifested for John and Paul over the course of their friendship.

I’m going to look at John and Paul in turn and have a look at some of the key ways jealousy appeared, before, during and after the Beatles period. This will be a looooong post so if you want to go on deep dive keep reading below.

John

Jealousy was something that John acknowledged as a big part of his personality, as far as I’m aware, he only acknowledged his jealousy publicly in terms of his relationship with Yoko but I believe jealousy was a feature of all of John’s major relationships. John’s first real partnership was with Pete Shotton, his childhood best friend, and Pete has outlined how John’s jealousy and possessiveness was a feature in their friendship with them falling out when Pete first started showing interest in girls and with John acting out when Pete started to spend more time with other friends, instead of him, here Pete recounts John’s reflection on this period of their friendship:

“Years later John confessed to having felt acutely jealous throughout that interlude: “I was scared shitless I’d lost you after our fight in science class, when you starting playing with David Jones. I really thought I’d gone too far with you that time.“

Pete Shotton, John Lennon: In My Life , 1983

Pete’s recollections establish a pattern in John’s life of acting out due to a fear of abandonment and losing those who are closest to him so it’s not surprising that once John had formed a strong bond with Paul that would stir similar fears in him.

Below I’ve categorised the groups of people that were the focus of John’s jealousy and have picked one person from each group as an example:

Family - Jim McCartney

Paul’s family was and continues to be a big part of his life. From the outset of their friendship, John was made aware of how important Jim was to Paul and vice versa. John and Paul had to skip school to hang out together because Jim wouldn’t have John in their house initially and John confessed his resentment of Jim’s influence over Paul’s life. It appears that after some time John grew tired of having to contend with Jim for the position of the most important person in Paul’s life, and this culminated in John giving Paul a pseudo ultimatum as John discussed in 1971:

“But Paul would always give in to his dad. His dad told him to get a job, he fucking dropped the group and started working on the fucking lorries, saying, "I need a steady career." We couldn't believe it… “So I told him on the phone, "Either come or you're out." So he had to make a decision between me and his dad then, and in the end he chose me”

St. Regis Hotel interview, Sept. 5, 1971

Friends - Mal Evans

Throughout the active years of the band it was typical of them to refer to each other as their best friends and, given the lives they led, I think the simple fact that no one else could understand what it was like to be a Beatle would have meant they all shared a special bond. However, they all had friendships outside of the band and this was something that could cause issues for John when it came to Paul.

According to Tune In, Mal initially became friends with Paul during the band's initial shows at the Cavern Club then, after a suggestion from George, Mal became a part of the Beatles entourage thereafter. Mal had friendships with all the Beatles, as part of their inner circle, but from his comments it appears John took umbrage with the closeness of Mal’s friendship with Paul:

“Paul would suddenly come in with this circle saying, “This is Magical Mystery Tour, will you write that bit?” And I was choked that he’d arranged it all with Mal anyway, for a kickoff, and had all this idea going”

St. Regis Hotel interview, Sept. 5, 1971

Mal also comes up when John discusses his recollections of the writing of Eleanor Rigby:

“So rather than ask me, “John, do these lyrics—” Because by that period, he didn’t want to say that – to me. Okay? So what he would say was, “Hey, you guys, finish off the lyrics,”... “ Now, I sat there with Mal Evans, a road manager who was a telephone installer, and Neil Aspinall, who was a not-completed student accountant who became our road manager. And I was insulted and hurt that he’d thrown it out in the air”...” There might be a version that they contributed, but there isn’t a line in there that they put in.“

Playboy interview, David Sheff 1980

John’s discomfort with the closeness of Paul’s relationship with Mal was something that wasn’t lost on Mal’s wife Lil:

“He was always at their beck and call. He was a nice fella to have around, so much so that it could provoke little jealousies within the band. When I met Yoko years after Mal died, she said John had told her he’d been very jealous at one point of Mal’s relationship with Paul.”

Lil Evans interview with Ray Connolly, 2005

Love interests - Linda McCartney

Throughout their friendship both John and Paul had quite a few love interests, which (to varying degrees) prompted jealousy between them.

Although John displayed jealousy of a few of Paul’s love interests this was no more apparent than with Paul’s first wife Linda McCartney, which is confirmed by both John’s words and actions regarding Linda and her partnership with Paul:

“"Then Klein informed Lennon that McCartney had secretly been increasing his stake in Northern Songs. ‘John flew into a rage,’ recalled Apple executive Peter Brown. ‘At one point I thought he was really going to hit Paul, but he managed to calm himself down.’ One unconfirmed report of this meeting had Lennon leaping towards Linda McCartney, his fists raised in her face"

Peter Doggett, You Never Give Me Your Money

"Int: When did you first meet her [Linda]? John: The first time I saw her was after that press conference to announce Apple in America. We were just going back to the airport and she was in the car with us. I didn't think she was particularly attractive, I wondered what he was bothering having her in the car for. A bit too tweedy, you know. But she sat in the car and took photographs and that was it. And the next minute she's married him."

St. Regis Hotel interview, Sept. 5, 1971

“I was reading your letter and wondering what middle aged cranky Beatle fan wrote it... "What the hell—it’s Linda! . . . Linda— if you don’t care what I say—shut up!—let Paul write—or whatever.”

"Of course, the money angle is important—to all of us—especially after all the petty shit that came from your insane family/in laws—and GOD HELP YOU OUT, PAUL—see you in two years—I reckon you’ll be out then"

Draft letter from John Lennon to Linda McCartney, circa 1971

"The presumption is a) the Beatles would get together again or are even thinking about it and b) if they got together, John and Yoko split, Paul and Linda split"

John (with Yoko) talks to John Fielding on Weekend World, 1973

"John often speculated on why Paul and Linda remained married while, at the same time, resenting their evident happiness, to the extent that he had Green do a tarot reading to ensure him that Paul and Linda were really secretly miserable and were going to divorce within a year"

According to Fred Seaman and John Green, source

Paul

Of course jealousy wasn't a one-way street in the Lennon-McCartney relationship. Unlike with John, for Paul I'm focusing more on the key people I believe his jealousy, regarding John, was directed to:

Stuart Sutcliffe

John met Stu at Art College and struck up a really close friendship with him. At the point that John met Stu, John had already become friends with Paul so Paul felt threatened when Stu entered the picture:

"When he [Stu] came into the band, around Christmas of 1959, we were a little jealous of him; it was something I didn’t deal with very well. We were always slightly jealous of John’s other friendships.

When Stuart came in, it felt as if he was taking the position away from George and me. We had to take a bit of a back seat."

Paul McCartney, Anthology 2000

"Paul was saying something about Stu’s girl – he was jealous because she was a great girl, and Stu hit him, on stage. And Stu wasn’t a violent guy at all."

John Lennon, 1967 Anthology 2000

"I looked up to Stu. I depended on him to tell me the truth. Stu would tell me if something was good and I’d believe him. We were awful to him sometimes. Especially Paul, always picking on him. I used to explain afterwards that we didn’t dislike him, really."

John Lennon, The Beatles Hunter Davies 1968

Yoko Ono

Of all the relationships I've already discussed, the relationship and jealousy displayed from Paul towards Yoko is probably the most widely discussed in Beatles historiography and general discourse. From the official start of Yoko's relationship with John in 1968 it was clear that Paul resented her presence in John's life and her proximity to the band:

"He even sent them [John and Yoko] a hate letter once, unsigned, typed. I brought it in with the morning mail. Paul put most of his fan mail in a big basket and let it sit for weeks, but John and Yoko opened every piece. When they got to the anonymous note, they looked puzzled, looking at each other with genuine pain in their eyes. ‘You and your Jap tart think you’re hot shit’, it said."

Francie Schwartz, Body Count 1972

"Cause she’s [Yoko] very much to do with it from John’s angle, that’s the thing, you know. And I – the thing is that I – there’s— Again, like, there’s always only two answers. One is to fight it, and fight her, and try and get The Beatles back to four people without Yoko, and sort of ask her to sit down at the board meetings. Or else, the other thing is to just realize that she’s there, you know. And he’s not gonna sort of – split with her, just for our sakes."

Paul McCartney, Let It Be Sessions, 1969

"I told John on the phone the other day that at the beginning of last year I was annoyed with him. I was jealous because of Yoko, and afraid about the break-up of a great musical partnership. It’s taken me a year to realise that they were in love. Just like Linda and me."

Paul McCartney, interview with Ray Connolly, 1970

What are the similarities and differences in the way jealousy manifested for John and Paul?

I think it's obvious but bears repeating that both John and Paul displayed jealousy towards other people who they felt would threaten their relationship so that's central to all the instances I have flagged, Jim, Mal, Linda, Stu, Yoko all posed real or imagined threats to John and Paul's partnership.

However, you'll note that I included more sources to display John's jealousy regarding Paul and that I categorised John's jealousy targets whereas I only pulled out two key individuals for Paul, this isn't to say that John was more jealous than Paul was, as jealousy isn't something you can quantify, but to highlight my opinion that Paul's jealousy regarding John was more targeted than John's jealousy regarding Paul. I think what stands out to me is that, I think generally Stu and Yoko are held up as the prime examples of Paul's jealousy of other people getting close to John, as far as we know, Paul never had significant issues with other people who formed close relationships with John like Pete Shotton, Cynthia Lennon, Magic Alex etc., why was that? I think that Paul was more threatened when he felt that John was replacing him so by bringing Stu into the band (even though he wasn't a musician) and Yoko into the studio (one instance where Paul was especially hurt was when John gave Paul's line in The Continuing Story of Bungalow Bill to Yoko to sing), Paul perhaps felt that his place as John's primary collaborator was in jeopardy and that he could lose a partnership that had become central to his self-worth as a person - that, I believe, was when his jealousy was most likely to rise to the fore. John, on the other hand, had a much wider range of targets when it came to jealousy regarding Paul, why was John jealous of Linda? Linda wasn't trying to replace John as Paul's collaborator, if anything she wanted the Lennon-McCartney partnership to be stronger. Why was John jealous of Mal? Mal wasn't a musician, Mal was a huge fan of the band and constantly worked to fulfil their requests, so why was John so threatened by his friendship with Paul? For me, John's jealousy regarding Paul was more than just a fear of directly being replaced, I believe John's jealousy was fundamentally triggered by a fear of abandonment. I think the childhood trauma John experienced, of being left by both his parents, meant that whenever any of his close friendships and relationships were threatened, or he felt that someone close to him may leave him, he would act out. John fell out with his childhood best friend Pete when he got a girlfriend, John hit Cynthia when he saw her dancing with Stu, John was rude to several of Paul's love interests and ultimately John never fully accepted Paul's relationship with Linda because, although he could see that she could offer Paul the family life he always wanted, John didn't want Linda to take Paul away and give him a family that meant that Paul would no longer be able to prioritise John in his life as he had in the past.

Ultimately, we'll never know all the ways that jealousy factored into John and Paul's relationship with each other and those around them, as I'm sure it impacted several relationships in more complex ways than I can articulate (i.e. I suspect jealousy played a part in Paul's initial resentment of Brian but they grew closer over time so maybe Paul's jealousy lessened over time or Brian became less of a threat?). I do think it's important to consider that jealousy was present on both sides and was likely a factor in the breakdown of John and Paul's relationship, the breakdown of the Beatles and was a continued factor in disrupting reconciliations between John and Paul into the 70s and 1980.

#the beatles #john lennon #paul mccartney #john and paul #paul and linda #john and yoko #jealous guy #linda mccartney #yoko ono #stuart sutcliffe #mal evans #jim mccartney #brian epstein #long post #thoughts

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basedboygirlboss · 3 years

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Neil paused. Putting the arc tool and components he’d been working with down on the workbench, he raised his face shield.

He knew that tune.

He had sung it before many times.

It had been sung to him every year, for thirty four years, and always on the same day. His birthday.

He turned around in his chair, towards the workbench a short distance away on the other side of the cramped workshop. “Maz?” he said, waiting for the alien’s gills to close and allow for speech.

“Sorry, did you need something?” she asked after securing two broken parts with adhesive tape. The warble in her voice could make her hard to understand, even with the aid of a translator, but Neil had grown use to the odd, pitching sound of her words. It was like hearing what a funhouse mirror looks like.

“Yeah, could you tell me what your were humming a moment ago? It sounded familiar.”

“Oh,” she seemed surprised. She raised a hand to one side of her neck, brushing the skin around the gills. “I didn’t realize. It’s just an old lullaby my mother would sing. I was scared of storms as a kid. It doesn’t really have any lyrics, though.”

Neil nodded. “Could you hum it again, for me?”

Her eyes widened. Then, after a moment, her gills reopened.

Yes. He was right. It was the same exact tune.

Neil began to sing along. When Maz was done humming, and Neil was done singing, they were left staring at one another.

“You know that’s a human song, right?” he asked.

“That can’t be, that’s an ancient lullaby.”

“A lullaby without words?”

“The vibrations,” she said. “It was a calling tone, used by my people to call out to someone who was lost, or scared. Over time, it became a lullaby meant mostly for children.”

“Because they get scared, and lost easily.” Neil nodded, understanding. “But that doesn’t really explain how your people know the tune to Happy Birthday? Isn’t that a little weird?”

“I’m not sure. The universe has proven itself vast, and infinite, and full of possibilities, but it also has shown a clear bias towards certain attributes. We both breath oxygen, and bleed, after all.” Maz paused, crossing her arms. She looked up at the ceiling, and the look of deep, contemplating thought on her face was so genuine and sincere, that Neil couldn’t help but huff a small, warm laugh at the expression. “I’ve never seen you bleed, Neil.” she said.

He raised a brow. “Is that an accusation?”

“An observation.”

“Should I be on my guard the next time you pick up a plaz-drill?”

“I would never.” And he believed her. How could he not, with a face like that?

“I don’t think this is as simple as a mere coincidence, Maz.”

“Then how else would you explain it?”

Niel couldn’t. Not now, and not yet at least. He sighed, scratched the back of his neck, and told her as much. “This is going to annoy me until I figure it out.” he said, accepting his fate.

Maz stood, and Neil did the same. “Should we go get some tea? I have a collection of traditional folk music stored on the padd, back in my quarters. We could compare and look for other similarities.”

Neil was smiling as they headed out of the workshop. “Depends. Have you’ve ever heard of Freddie Mercury, and a little band called Queen?”

To his great delight, she had not.

#aliens #humans are weird #humans are weird story #humans are weird writing #happy birthday #my writing #part 1?

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waywardbeanie · 4 years

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A Man of Letters - Chapter Seven

Pairing: Dean Winchester x Female Reader Summary: It started as a simple hunt for Sam and Dean Winchester. Dean didn’t realize that this single case would change his life forever. Now they are on the biggest mission of their lives, and without the use of cellphones, the only way he can communicate with the love of his life is through old fashioned letter writing. He has done everything in his power to keep her safe, but will it be enough? Word Count: 6931 ish

Series Warnings: Language, slow burn, angst, smut, alcohol consumption, fluff, SPN typical violence (individual chapters will contain relevant warnings) a little meta Chapter Warning: humor (Is that really a warning?) and a little bit of sweet.(Always), angst, spicy (smut), unprotected (ish) sex

A/N: I want to thank everyone who has read so far, thank you for sticking with me! All of the comments and reblogs mean so very much! THANK YOU!

Thank you to my beta’s @winchest09 and @whatareyousearchingfordean without them I would be sunk!

MASTERLIST A Man of Letters

If you’d like to be tagged, my list is open. Just send me an ask HERE: **Make sure you check out the playlist, it is updated every chapter and an essential part of the story**

Spotify Playlist : A Man of Letters

Catch up here >>>>>>> A Man of Letters Masterlist

This series is ongoing!

No Gif’s are mine

Dean “Tongue Magician” Winchester PO Box 323 Sioux Falls, SD 57101

Dear D,

You were right, I got both letters the same day. It was a really nice surprise. I hope that “Sam” likes the brownies. I’m sure they are stale, but I made enough for everyone, so please share them because I know they are for you. Sam literally eats one brownie when I make them. Work has picked up, and my schedule is full most days. I’m happy to be busy when you are gone, it makes the days go by faster, but my bed is too big and empty without you. I’ve slept on the couch a few times since you’ve been gone, I just leave the pillows on, and I can almost convince myself you are here.

I was thinking about the couch night, but now you have me thinking about the bed night, and damn, you are too far away to dwell on that for too long! Also, do not talk to me about me moaning your name in letters because I swear to God I will write you a note that you will have you locking yourself in Baby to read!

Things are pretty quiet here as usual. I went to the farmers market today and bought vegetables. I’m trying to figure out some new recipes to try. I know you said that you were up for anything, just no more butter beans because they taste like mud (which, for the record, they do not!), so we will see what I can do. I saw Mark from the garage there, and he told me to tell you “Hello” and that he is almost finished with the body of the 1971 Plymouth Hemi Cuda. He wondered when you would be back because he could use your help with the new paint job. I told him that the job you had was going to last longer than most but that I’m sure as soon as you got into town that you would help him.

D, I know we talked about the future before, but are you sure you want to walk away? I’m here no matter what, I’m not going anywhere. You need to be sure this is what you want to do for you. With that being said, I am selfish enough to say I want nothing more than to fall asleep in your arms every night and to wake up next to you each morning. I’m glad you wrote it in a letter because I can read it over and over. Sometimes, when you are gone, I just start questioning things and can be a bit insecure about all of it, but you knew that already.

I guess I should wrap this up, I’m sorry you guys are doing more research, but, as always it will pay off in the end. I’m not surprised you set up training for everyone, that is definitely your thing, and it gives you an excuse not to read those dusty books. You guys be safe and come back soon. I miss your face.

I Love You, Your Initial

3 Years Ago

They were a little over halfway back to the bunker, driving through Hastings, Nebraska, and Sam started to worry. Dean had not spoken 5 words this entire trip. He didn’t even want snacks when they stopped for gas. They have been driving for almost two hours, the radio on low, the only thing consistent is the tapping of his thumb on the top of the steering wheel, lost in his own thoughts.

“Dean.” He broke the silence

“Huh?” pulling himself from his thoughts, glancing at Sam.

“You want to tell me what’s going on?”

“What? Nothing,” raising his eyebrows, he shook his head briefly.

Flicking his eyes to the backseat, Sam confirmed the vamp was still out cold. “Ok, I’ll start. I know that you knew where these vamps were hiding out long before I told you. Instead of helping me, you continued to point me in the wrong direction.”

He rubbed his hand down his face with equal amounts of irritation and embarrassment. “Sammy, it’s not like that I-,”

Annoyed Sam cut him off, “Dude, it is exactly like that, but the funny part is I’m not even mad anymore.”

“Fine, you know I don’t want to talk about this, but you get one question and one answer and don’t get all chick flick about it either because that’s not happening.”

“Great,” Sam smirked, “What’s Y/N’s favorite color?”

Without missing a beat, Dean answered, “It’s a tie between navy blue and dark grey.”

Sam threw his head back with a laugh. Dean’s mouth quirked up in a half-smile, turning up the radio as “Ramblin’ Man” by The Allman Brothers blared through the speakers. Laying his foot on the gas pedal, a little heavier to get back to the bunker to get answers from the comatose vamp tied up in the back seat.

Dean and Sam had left Y/N’s house 2 days ago. The first 24 hours she didn’t go anywhere without her phone, that got old quickly. She began to feel like it was a leash; finally, she went about her day and left it plugged in on her nightstand. Today was Saturday, she didn’t have any clients this morning; instead, it was all the things to catch up from the week. Mowing the lawn, cleaning the house, grocery shopping, stripping the sheets, and doing laundry.

She put her hair in a messy bun, threw on her Neil Diamond t-shirt with denim shorts, grabbed her BlueTooth headphones, linking them to her tablet, and set it outside on the deck and connected it to her playlist. Greta Van Fleet’s “Highway Tune” burst into her ears as she yanked the pulley to start the lawnmower. She chuckled to herself as she began to mow the backyard. Dean had mentioned a few times that he wanted to do it, but that was not going to happen. She had put them both out enough, and besides, it was a good exercise for her. Finishing up in a little over an hour, she put away the lawn equipment, grabbed a bottle of water from the “beer fridge” in the garage, and jumped in the Jeep. She wanted to head to two destinations, the grocery store and the gardening store to buy more plants and flowers. Working in the yard kept her hands and mind busy, and right now, that is precisely what she needed.

As she was perusing the freezer section for her favorite Ben & Jerry’s flavor, she ran into her friend Jennifer. They had met just a few weeks after Y/N moved to Lincoln and they had become fast friends. After a brief hug, they agreed to meet later on that evening for drinks on Y/N’s back deck to catch up. She stopped and bought some more daisies and headed back home, looking forward to spending the evening with her friend.

After planting the flowers, she ran in the house to quickly shower and wash her hair, scrubbing off the dirt and grime of the day. Finishing up, she wrapped her hair in a towel and dried off when she noticed Dean’s black flannel hanging on the door hook. He’d accidentally left it behind the last time he was here. Walking over, she brushed her fingers lightly over the material and as she brought it closer to her nose, she could still smell his woodsy maleness clinging to the fabric. She rested her head against the door, thinking about how much she missed him already and realizing how ridiculous it sounded.

With a sigh, she left the bathroom walking down the hall to her bedroom, pausing she looked at her phone lying face down on the nightstand. She was torn; part of her wanted to see if Dean had called or texted, but an overwhelming part did not want to be disappointed when he didn’t. She made a deal with herself, she would get dressed and dry her hair, and THEN she would look at it. Y/N did silly bargaining things like this with herself all the time, almost like bargaining with the Gods to turn the odds in her favor. She pulled on a pair of grey shorts and a and white Garth Brooks shirt, chuckling to herself, thinking of when Dean accused her of having more band shirts than he did.

Sitting in front of her mirror with her flat paddle brush, she began drying her hair in pieces, after finishing she put on a bit of mascara, eyeliner, and colored lip balm. Smiling at herself in the mirror, she was pleased with the results, standing with a huff, Y/N went to check her phone. Picking it up, she expected nothing. However, she slowly lowered herself to the bed as her screen lit up, her eyes growing wider with every missed notification.

Dean 3 Missed calls

Dean: Hey, Babe, been crazy with you know what. Just wanted to hear your voice.

Dean 4 Missed calls

Sam 1 Missed call

Dean: Y/N. Is everything ok? Call me when you get this.

Dean 2 Missed calls Sam: Tink, would you PLEASE call Dean? I might kill him soon if you don’t. Jennifer 1 Missed Call Dean: ok, I’m trying to keep my shit together right now, I’m FUCKING WORRIED. I’m just telling you right now if I don’t hear back from you in 2 hours I’m driving back.

Just then, her phone lit up in her hand, Dean’s face popping up, the ring scaring her so bad she dropped the phone. She scrambled to pick it up, pushing the speaker button quickly. “Hello?”

“Y/N?” Dean’s voice boomed through the speaker.

“Hey Dean, I’m so sorry-” she began.

Dean cut her off, “Are you good? Jesus Fuck, I was like a crazy person down here. You’re good, right? I mean you are answering the phone, so you’re alright. Right?” She could hear a slamming car door in the background.

“Dean!” she raised her voice to get his attention, “I’m fine I just left my phone plugged in all day, and I was busy.”

“Shit, right.” She could hear him running his hand over his scruff, “I’m sorry Babe, I know, I sound like a lunatic. We just haven’t been able to get anything out of this vamp, when you didn’t answer, my mind just started going to a dark place.”

“I promise, I’m really fine,” she soothed, “I mowed the lawn and went to the grocery and bought some flowers; just busy. I even saw my friend Jennifer today. She’s coming over tonight, and we are going to sit on the deck and have a couple beers.”

“Honestly, that sounds great Y/N/N, I just wanted to hear your voice and tell you to be careful. We don’t know who sent those vamps yet, and until we do, you just need to watch your back.”

She didn’t want to roll her eyes, but she couldn’t help it. There were only so many ways she could reassure him, she didn’t want Dean to worry about her, Y/N just living her life, maybe she was naïve. Hell, no one has worried about her since her parents’ death. It was a strange feeling.

“Dean,” she began, “What can I do to make you feel better?”

She could almost hear the sheepish shrug in his voice “I don’t know” pulling himself out of that quickly, his voice became stronger. “Could you just carry your damn phone with you?”

Dean heard the laughter through his phone, and he couldn’t help but smile, hearing her laugh warmed his insides. “Of course, I will! I do have a question for you, though.”

“Shoot.”

“Were you really going to drive back up here if I didn’t answer?” The silence on the phone went on for so long that she had to double-check to be sure they weren’t disconnected. “Dean?”

“Yeah,” came a gruff reply, “I was in the garage when I thought I would call you one more time before I left.”

“Oh Dean, I’m sorry.” Guilt niggled at her as she thought of him dropping his plans.

“Y/N, maybe I overreacted a little, but I’m so far away that, if shit went down, It would take me 2 ½ hours to get there.”

“I’m just living, Dean, but I will be careful, I swear. I don’t want you to worry about me. You have enough to worry about without adding me to it.”

Oh, Babe,” he chuckled, “It’s a little late for that, don’t you think?”

“Maybe.” He could hear the smile in her voice.

“So, I thought I would come back up on Thursday night if that’s ok.”

“More than,” she replied with a soft smile, “I miss you.”

“Same,” he replied gruffly, “see you Thursday, then.”

“Bye, Dean,” she whispered. She pushed the end button and flopped back on the bed, heart pounding in her chest.

She missed him, but the idea of him coming back had her stomach in knots. There was no doubt in her mind that she was going to have sex with him when he came back. She could barely keep herself in check before he left. It had been a long time since she had been intimate with anyone, what if she forgot how? She had been fine just shoving her sexual frustrations to the bottom of her priority list, life got its hooks in her, she was more interested in getting her business off the ground, fixing up her house and making a life for herself. He was the first person in recent memory who made her look twice. Now he was coming to stay with her. This time she knew that the couch was not going to cut it.

Dean’s POV

Bracing his forearms on the driver’s side window frame of Baby, he tossed the phone on her roof with a sigh. It’s taking all of his internal strength not to jump in the car right now and head back to Lincoln. In his mind, he knows that she is safe, but his chest still ached. This is why he didn’t involve himself in this type of bullshit. Sticking to the random hook up fitted his life. What the hell was he thinking, dragging her deeper into a life that she has no business being within a 1000 feet of? She is too sweet to get involved in his shit show of life. He was tossed into it the day his mother was roasted on the ceiling. Y/N deserves so much better than he could ever offer. If he had a brain cell left in his head, he would man up and text her right now to tell her to forget it, he wasn’t returning to Lincoln. He and Sam would track down whoever was after her and take care of it. Y/N could move on with her life and forget all about him and the nightmare life he leads. Exhaling loudly, Dean grabs his phone, shoving it in his pocket and pushing himself off the car, the adrenaline of his fear and anger still pumping through his veins. He knows she deserves better than a text. When he drives up on Thursday, he will tell her that it’s best for her.

Eventually, the stabbing pain in his chest will go away and if it doesn’t, maybe this is just what it would be like now that he really knows what he will be missing when he walks away.

Jennifer and Y/N embrace at the door when she arrives promptly at 7:00. It was an evening of a few too many beers and laughs. Jennifer switched to Diet Coke after two. Although she was a little more than tipsy, she was careful to keep most of the secrets when Jennifer started to question her about the black muscle car parked at her house when Y/N was MIA for a few weeks, no one knew she was hiding a bruised and swollen face.

Travis had kept his mouth shut as promised. Sam and Dean stopped in to talk to him about the “guys” who followed Y/N home and assaulted her. He wanted his bar as far away from that controversy as possible.

They ended the evening with more hugs and promises to get together again soon, Y/N made her way to her bedroom, phone in hand, drunkenly stripping off clothes all the way down the hall. Climbing under the sheets, she started to plug in her phone but changed her mind.

Dean’s phone buzzed with a text message at 1:17 a.m, he was sitting in the library nursing his third whiskey of the night. Picking up his phone, he thumbed it open to see it was a text from Y/N. As he opened the message, his mouth slowly began to gape open. Staring back at him was a selfie. Y/N was laying down, her hair fanning around her on the pillow, a sweet smile playing on her lips. He could see the curve of her breasts, turning the phone back and forth he was sure he could have seen her nipple. She was totally naked in that massive bed without him. The simple text accompanying the picture is what truly did him in.

Babe: Wish you were here

“FUCK!” he groaned loudly, closing his eyes, throwing his head back

Thursday came in a blink of an eye for both of them. Dean had texted Y/N to let him know he would be leaving around noon. It was 10:00 a.m. now, his anxiousness already kicked into high gear. Sam walked into the war room, a mug of coffee in his hand, still in his blue and black plaid pajama pants with a grey long sleeved T-Shirt. His hair pointing in every direction, bare feet smacking against the tile floor. He stopped abruptly when he spotted Dean pacing a path back and forth. He was already dressed in jeans and boots topped with a dark grey T-shirt underneath a burgundy and grey flannel. An empty coffee cup sitting on the map table along with his duffle bag.

“Dean?” he questioned.

“Yeah?” he responded, continuing to pace.

“What’s the deal? What are you doing?” He fully entered the room, placing his mug on the table studying Dean.

“I’m thinking! What are you doing? I just got shit on my mind,” he barked back, continuing to pace, stopping to look at his phone, before beginning his walk again.

“Aren’t you going to Y/N’s today?” Sam questioned, “I thought you would be happy. Instead, you’re stalking around here like an angry bear.”

Dean’s angry gaze snapped to Sam, confirming his characterization. “I’m coming back tonight.” Sam paused in the middle of sitting, standing back up, “Dude, WHAT?”

Running his hand roughly over his face, he sighed. “I got some space; after the other day, when I couldn’t reach her, it made me realize she doesn’t need to be dragged into this life. It’s too much.”

“And there it is” Sam threw his hands in the air, frustration written all over his face.

“What’s that supposed to mean?” Dean growled.

“Every.Fucking.Time,” he emphasized each word pointing his finger at the older Winchester. "Whenever you find a little bit of happiness, you start sabotaging yourself, it’s always something. This life sucks, you’re too busy, it’s the apocalypse, someone or something needs you more, you just shut down and tell yourself it’s not worth the trouble.”

Dean just stared at his brother as he continued to ramble.

“Just once Dean, just one time can you put yourself first?” he gestured toward him. “Yes, I know Y/N was a case and you are pissed off that the vamp won’t talk, you’re worried that your life is going to splash on her. She is stronger than you think, you think you need to pile all of this on your shoulders, you don’t. I have never seen you, my own brother, let his guard down around someone before.”

“She’s too good Sammy, she doesn’t deserve-”

“What?” Sam questioned, gathering momentum again “She doesn’t deserve to be happy? She doesn’t deserve to have someone care about her? You-” he pointed at him once more, “are both crazy about each other. I could see it on your faces every time I was in the same room with you both. You have earned the right to be happy.”

Dean crossed his arms contemplating Sam.

“Just do me a favor, would you?” Go up there and just see her, stay the three days, like you planned, see what happens. Promise me you won’t go up there halfcocked trying to tell her, like you always do to everyone, that you know what’s best. Leave your bullshit baggage here and just go see her.”

“Whatever,” Dean grumbled, hiking his bag on his shoulder as he picked his keys off the table, striding towards the garage, “I think you need to mind your own damn business.”

“When has that ever happened before?” Sam called after him.

As Dean began to drive to Lincoln, Y/N was running around nerves and excitement, twisting her gut. She had showered, shaved everywhere, lotioned up, fixed her hair, letting it flow down her back instead of the ponytail or messy bun look and she had applied light makeup. Looking down at her bed, almost every article of clothing she owned was spread out. Y/N picked up all of her dresses and hung them back in the closet. If she wore a dress, he would know that she was trying too hard.

“This is ridiculous!” she thought to herself as she started shoving clothes back into drawers. She settled on a pair of denim cutoff shorts and a sleeveless black and white blouse that cut in at the shoulders and tied at the back of her neck, flowing to mid-hip. Picking up the remainder of clothes strewn about, she muscled them back in her closet, slamming the door. She checked herself out in the mirror, happy with the tan legs and arms on display. Walking out into the living room, she started to feel fidgety. She had serious thoughts about going to work in the garden, but she would have to shower all over again. After wandering around the house, she checked her phone at 1:00. She had two hours left. Flopping on the couch, she flipped on the television and began channel surfing, trying to zone out.

As Dean sped up the highway to Y/N’s house, the conversation with Sam this morning was a consistent loop in his head. Actually, it was more of a Sam tirade. Dean knew what was best, right? Nip it in the bud before one of them could get hurt. She really wasn’t what he needed in his life, he told himself. Unattached works best for him. An after bar closing fling to get rid of the itch, then back to living life. No expectations, no texts, no I’ll-call-you-laters. But if that is what he wanted, then why did it make him sad and angry all at once?

Twenty minutes outside of Lincoln, he stopped for gas, seriously considering calling her to say he couldn’t make it. Sure, she might be disappointed, but she would get over it, wouldn’t she? No, he chastised himself, he would do the right thing and tell her face to face. He owed her that, at the very least. Looking at his watch, he realized that he had made a good time between leaving the bunker early so Sam would quit bitching at him and no traffic or cops on the 2 lane highway. He would be at her house at 1:30. Jumping back in Baby, he cranked the ignition “The Real Love” by Bob Seger blared through the speakers, it was a slow one, he reached down to flip the channel but paused but as the lyrics began to speak to him.

I think I’ve found The Real Love Genuine and true I think it’s really come my way today Babe I think it’s really you

I remember moments looking in your eyes Could have sworn I saw the spark of love babe Flickering inside

I’ve been around this track And the only thing I lack Is The Real Love

Placing his hand back on the wheel, his knuckles turned white as he squeezed, the pressure in his chest overwhelming him as he blinked back tears. His mind and heart screaming, “Don’t do this!!” Angrily, he threw Baby in drive, grinding his teeth together and snapping his jaw. He jammed his foot on the gas, leaving tire treads next to the pumps. The Impala fishtailing as he exited to the street heading towards Y/N house. The pain crashing through him as the verses washed over him.

Every time I see you, every time we touch I can feel the way you feel for me Babe And it means so much

And every time you look at me It’s just the way it all should be In The Real Love

Oh darlin’ darlin’ darlin’ Stay with me stay I long to see you in the morning sun Everyday Everyday

So until that moment When I take your hand I’m gonna try to do my very best Babe To prove that I’m your man

I’m gonna do my very best I’m not gonna rest Until we’ve got The Real Love

He was in agony, convincing himself it was what he deserved thinking about what he was about to do.

Hearing the deep rumble of Baby, Y/N sat up on the couch, flinging the remote on the coffee table. Her heart began thundering in her chest as she looked at the clock 1:28 p.m. “It’s too early, it can’t be him. He said 3:00” she thought. Her feet had a mind of their own, carrying her, almost unwilling, afraid to be disappointed that it was another car, but she knew. She would recognize the sound of his car anywhere. The screen door opened with a squeak as she stepped on the porch as Dean drove up the driveway. She shoved her hands in her front pockets to appear calm, but she could not wipe the huge grin off her face nor the heat burning her cheeks.

Dean turned off Baby and sat there for a moment, squeezing the steering wheel, flexing his jaw as he tried to get his bearings together. He knew what had to be done, he couldn’t draw it out. “Just cut to the chase, short and sweet. Get it over and done with and let her live in peace,” he told himself, until he glanced out the window and saw her on the porch.

The ice that he tried to form around his heart cracked wide as he looked at her beautiful, smiling face. Never in his life could he recall someone so thrilled to see him. She was pure sunshine that spread light through him as he looked at her. Pulling the metal handle, he got out of the car, slamming the heavy door behind him. Her hands were in her pockets, but she was so happy she was almost vibrating. As he walked towards her, all he could hear was Sam’s voice yelling in his head, “leave your bullshit baggage here! You have earned the right to be happy!”

Each step that he took melted the ice a little more, stopping in the grass, he matched her smile and opened his arms. She was off the porch running to him. She jumped into his arms and wrapped her legs around his waist as he locked her in his embrace. She buried her face in his neck as he nuzzled her hair, breathing her in.

“You know,” she whispered, smiling into his neck, “when I thought about today, I always imagined I would have been much cooler.”

Chuckling, he pressed a kiss against her temple, “I wouldn’t have wanted it any other way.” The truth is, had she been calm, cool, and collected, Dean would not have questioned his stupidity until he was headed back to the bunker. By that time, it would have been too late, and he would have had to live with his decision no matter what the ache in his chest told him.

Setting her on her feet, bending, he pressed a firm kiss on her lips, lingering as the last bits of ice melted around his heart. He wanted to tell her what he had driven up here to do; he just couldn’t yet. What if he scared her? What if she stopped looking at him with unconditional acceptance? After everything he had shared with her, the killings, the monsters, and the Mark of Cain, she rolled with it all as if he was telling her how he changed the oil in Baby. She was interested and asked questions but never judged him. Telling her most of his secrets on the couch was never what he meant to do, but she pulled it out without even trying. What if telling her he was going to look at him differently? He couldn’t handle that, his chest hurt to even think that. What if it broke what has been so carefully built. What if it broke her? He couldn’t do that. The thought that he was actually going to come up here and tell her it was over made him feel lightheaded.

Pulling back, she took his hand in hers with a smile. “I hope you’re hungry tonight. I made steak, twice baked potato, corn on the cob and...” she drawled, wiggling her eyebrows, “pecan pie.”

“Wow,” he chuckled “you didn’t have to do all of that.”

She lifted one shoulder, slightly embarrassed, “I wanted to.”

Squeezing her hand, he murmured, “thank you.”

Smiling bright at him, she opened the screen door, Y/N entering and pulling Dean with her. The house smelled like pie. He didn’t realize how much he missed being with her in her space until he walked in the door. The smell, the feeling of hominess solidified his decision to listen to Sam’s advice. Maybe his little brother knew something, after all.

Dean grabbed two bottles of beer out of the refrigerator, walking out on the back deck. Just being close to her, he could feel a weight lifting off him as he comfortably settled back into their little routine. He would always twist off the bottle top for her and hand her the beer. Even if she brought the beers out, she gave them both to him. When both bottles were open, they would clink the bottlenecks together before their first drink. It was the little things like this that made him ridiculously happy.

Sitting on the deck, they shared different things from the week, there were no awkward moments or pause in the conversation. It just flowed as it did on the couch. Dean tried to keep it light, telling funny stories about Sam as Y/N’s laughter rang out, filling him with a warmth he never knew he needed., She would reach out and touch him, brushing her fingers against his knee or grasping his arm when she was making a point. He looked forward to each touch, desire shuttering through him every time. As the afternoon slid into the evening, Dean would graze her upper arm with a smile, just to see her shiver. He felt powerful that it was his touch doing that to her.

Time flew by as the cold beers went down smoothly. Soon it was time to light the grill and cook up the steaks as she put together the side dishes. They decided to eat at the pub table on the deck, lighting the lanterns as the sun began to set and soft music played through the hidden speakers. Y/N watched Dean eat dinner as she moved the food around her plate. She watched him as they talked through dinner, either he wasn’t nervous or could chew through anything. She was hungry but only took a few bites here and there. The later it got, she began to get keyed up. She felt like she knew how the evening would end; however, her insecurities made her start to question everything. After dinner, they loaded the dishwasher and made coffee for both of them. It was very domestic, like all the pieces were snapping into place. Dean sat down his mug as the crisp sound of an acoustic guitar wafted through the sound system. “Give Me One Reason” by Tracy Chapman. The notes carried into the darkness as the deck was illuminated by the hanging lanterns.

Reaching out his hand he beckoned to Y/N, “dance with me.”

With a shy smile, she accepted his hand as he led her to the middle of the deck and took her in his arms. Her heart began to double-time in her chest as she looked into Dean’s eyes and saw the heat reflected back down on her. He pulled her close as they moved through the song and she could not help but to be struck by the lyrics.

Give me one reason to stay here And I'll turn right back around Give me one reason to stay here And I'll turn right back around Said I don't want leave you lonely You got to make me change my mind

Ducking his head to brush his lips to hers, the sizzle that has built between them all night, ignites. He wants this woman more than he has ever wanted anyone in his life. In a rush of uncontrollable desire, Dean cups Y/N’s face and pulls her to him, crashing his lips greedily to hers. The first touch of his mouth on hers and she threw her arms around him, pressing her body against his. The intense desire exploded between them; the compelling need to claim her, lick her, have her, drove him to the brink of insanity. He opened her lips with his, his tongue sliding into her mouth, bringing out a throaty moan that almost pushed him over the edge. He glided his hand down her back, cupping one of her round cheeks with his palm as he roughly pulled her against his erection; she gasped with pleasure as she began to grind herself onto him, her own arousal dictating her actions.

Picking her up, she wrapped her legs around him as he walked them into the house, down the hall into the bedroom, their mouths only moving apart to gasp for air before devouring each other once more. The dance of their tongues did nothing to quench her thirst for him since they had initially started, and she found herself rubbing against him in an attempt to ease her aching core. Setting her down on her feet in front of the bed, she looked up to see Dean’s eyes had changed to a dark smoldering green; the lust reflected back to her, making her tremble with yearning.

“I need you so much,” he rasped.

“God, me too,” she whimpered.

A smile spread across his face as he hooked his index finger along the waistband of her shorts, dragging them down her tan legs to her ankles. On his knees in front of her, he placed a soft kiss on her belly button, his tongue flicking her hoop piercing.

“So fucking hot,” he murmurs as her skin erupts in goosebumps, a shiver of excitement moving up her spine as she runs her hands through his soft brown hair.

Gently pushing her back on the bed, he pulled her to the edge, his mouth mere inches from her slick heat. Moving his face slightly, he brushed the inside of her thigh with his scruff, pulling a moan from her lips. She could feel his warm breath against her clit and began to squirm.

“Please Dean,” she begged. He lay his muscled forearm across her hips, pinning her to the bed.

“Shh,” he whispered as his eyes met hers, his intense look scorching her skin. “I want to look at you, I’ve done nothing but think about you like this for weeks, just want to enjoy the view for a moment.”

She let her head fall back on the mattress, laying her arm across her closed eyes, her body buzzing as it pleaded for relief. Every second that ticked by, the intensity coiled in her belly, convincing her that she will burst into flames any second. She jerked as she felt his flattened tongue lick upwards along her damp slit, teasing her. His lips stopped at her clit, humming in satisfaction.

“Jesus, Dean,” she moaned, grasping the sheets on either side of her, “I can’t do this, it’s too much,” she cried with frustration.

Chucking, he licked her again before swirling his tongue around her sweet spot. A sound ripped from her throat that was a mix between a whine and a curse. “That’s it, Y/N,” he growls against herm “let go, I want to feel you cum.”

“No, I want to feel you inside me.” Her arms stretched to reach him, but he leaned back, just out of reach.

“You will,” he promises “but I need this first.” His tongue delved into her wet sweetness as he buried two fingers inside her, coaxing her to climax. She felt the white-hot heat building inside her as he wrapped his lips around her clit, sucking one last time, hurdling her over the edge while crying out his name. Dean was relentless, lapping up everything Y/N had given him before he glanced up at her writhing form, his chin glistening in the dim light. It was a sight that made Y/N swallow hard, the man between her legs had given her an orgasm in less than a few minutes so her mind was reeling with else he had in store for her.

“I need you, Dean.” Those four words that bled from her lips sent Dean into a frenzy.

In haste, he removed his boots, socks, jeans, and boxers before he climbed up the mattress, pulling Y/N along with him. Situated in the middle of the bed, he settled between her legs, his hard length nudging at her. Resting his forearms on either side of her head, he brushed his lips over hers as she moved her hands to entwine her fingers in his hair, deepening the kiss. Her legs then wrapped around his waist, urging him to enter her but he held back, his body taut with the effort.

“Protection?” he asks softly. “IUD,” she answered breathlessly, desperate for him to fill her. “Oh god.””

“It’s Dean” he husked playfully, his voice deep and gruff.

Kissing down her neck; cupping her breast in his hand, he rolled her taut nipple between his thumb and forefinger, a hiss of pleasure rushing from her lips as he took her nipple in his mouth, swirling his tongue over the bud before nipping it gently with his teeth. He moved to the other breast giving it equal treatment. Steadily he slowly made his way back up her body, peppering her skin with kisses as he reached her mouth, claiming her lips again in a searing kiss as he lined himself up. He slowly pushes his impressive shaft inside of her as her body stretches around his girth, tightly squeezing and slowly accommodating him.

“Y/N,” he breathes between clenched teeth, “Fuck, I’ve wanted to do this for so long, you feel so damn good.”

She murmured her approval as her hands wrapped around him, her fingers digging into his rippling back muscles with each thrust. She had fantasized about this so often, but the reality eclipses anything her imagination had come up with. His mouth moved down her exposed neck as her hands blindly explored his body. Their dual moans mingled in the bedroom as their sweat-slicked bodies met. She gripped his shoulders as they both barreled towards release.

“Babe, I’m so close,” he grits out, his rhythm stuttering. She plants her feet on the bed, meeting him thrust for thrust.

“Dean!” she cries as another orgasm rips through her body. She comes undone, her insides clench and twist around him as she digs her fingers into his back as he feels her flutter around him. Groaning her name, he buries himself deep inside her, allowing euphoria to wash over him as he coated the inside of her walls.

Breathless, he nearly collapsed on top of her but managed to hold himself up on shaky arms as she ran her fingers through his sweaty hair with a smile. He leaned down to place a sweet kiss on her mouth before laying on his back next to her as they both tried to catch their breath. Turning his head, he saw her blissed-out face staring back at him with a sleepy smile playing on her lips. He gathered her still shaking body to him, wrapping his arms around her as she rested her head on his hard chest with a satisfied sigh. She snuggled into him as he reached down to pull the sheet over them both falling into an exhausted sleep. He was so glad he didn’t listen to his own thoughts and allowed himself to enjoy being with her. The woman that had turned his life upside down.

Chapter 8

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aion-rsa · 3 years

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How The Rolling Stones’ Exile on Main Street Earned Its Rep

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Apple TV+’s docuseries 1971: The Year That Music Changed Everything makes it seem like The Rolling Stones’ Exile On Main Street album was more fun to record than listen to, and that sets a high standard. The record distills the band’s sounds, from acoustic world music political ballads, through deep heartfelt blues, to honky tonk so funky you have to shake your ass. The group plays country, Southern blues, R&B, and the almost-punk-before-punk “Rip This Joint.” “Tumbling Dice,” is a radio staple. Keith Richards even took the lead vocals on a track to keep you happy. There was so much material, it came out as a double album. What could be more fun than that?

Richards’ Nellcôte mansion, on the Côte d’Azur in the South of France, was the hardest rocking musical getaway paradise in 1971. It was a Rock and Roll Main Street, and even the most mainstream players mainlined the exile vibe. Guitar god Eric Clapton and underground country legend Gram Parsons mixed drinks and drugs with movie stars like James Caan and Faye Dunaway, while playwright Terry Southern stopped taking note, according to Robert Greenfield’s book Exile on Main Street: A Season In Hell With The Rolling Stones.

William S. Burroughs inspired Mick Jagger to cut and paste a word collage together to form the lyrics to “Casino Boogie.” Paul McCartney and Ringo Starr dropped by the almost-week-long afterparty for Jagger’s wedding to Nicaraguan-born model Bianca Pérez Morena de Macias in Saint-Tropez. John Lennon, who was on methadone treatment, reputedly threw up at the foot of the grand staircase and passed out in it.

“The sunshine bores the daylights out of me,” Jagger sings on “Rocks Off,” the album’s opening song. The Rolling Stones strolled through their recent past darkly. The murder of Meredith Hunter at the Altamont speedway concert in late 1969 signaled, to many, the death of decade’s peace-and-love counterculture. But the band’s troubles went all the way back to the Redlands drug bust of 1967, and the death of Brian Jones. Adversity worked well, creatively, for the Stones, and they continued to pump out classics like “Gimme Shelter” in 1969, and controversy like “Brown Sugar” in 1971. Sticky Fingers, their ninth album, hung nicely at the top of the charts on both sides of the Atlantic.

The songs, and Allen Klein’s aggressive managerial money-making maneuvers, put the band in the 93% tax bracket for Britain’s highest earners. The Stones owed more than they could pay. To avoid penalties, they moved to France. Mick went to Paris. Mick Taylor, Bill Wyman and Charlie Watts bought or rented places along the French Riviera. Richards and his girlfriend, German-Italian actress and model Anita Pallenberg, moved into Nellcôte, a villa in Villefranche-sur-Mer, near Nice. During the Nazi occupation of France during World War II, the seaside mansion was the headquarters of the local Gestapo. Swastikas were carved into floor vents, staircases and ventilator grates.

Culture

How Tina Turner and Frank Zappa Whipped Up Some Dirty Love

By Tony Sokol

As pointed out in 1971: The Year That Music Changed Everything, the Stones had recently signed with Atlantic Records, and the label wanted an album. The band scoured the Riviera for a suitable recording studio, but wound up parking their mobile studio next to Keith’s house. Richards transformed the basement into a recording studio, and the band stole electricity from the railway tracks across the street to power amplifiers and the mobile recording truck.

The layout wasn’t the best. Bill Wyman, who is only credited for eight of the album’s songs on bass, plugged into an amp which was mic’d up in the hallway. Producer Jimmy Miller ended each take by running from the truck into the basement to check sound. The humidity caused the guitars to go out of tune. This gave the album its working title: “Tropical Disease.” The song “Ventilator Blues” was inspired by the conditions.

The band also had to deal with Keith’s erratic schedule. “I never plan anything,” Richards says in the documentary Stones in Exile. “Mick needs to know what he’s going to do tomorrow. Whereas I’m just happy to wake up and see who’s hanging around. Mick’s rock; I’m roll.” Richards, Taylor, Watts, pianist Nicky Hopkins, saxophonist Bobby Keys, drummer Jimmy Miller, and horn player Jim Price would jam all night while engineer Andy Johns ran the reels. Sessions would start when the guitarist rolled out of bed, or before he slipped off to put his son Marlon to sleep. After that Keith might pull a disappearing act, playing guitar in the un-mic’d second floor bathroom, or passing out. Richards was open about pot and alcohol, sharing liberally, but quiet about his heroin use.

Richards got clean in the spring of 1971, but hurt his back in a go-kart accident, according to Greenfield’s book. His vehicle flipped while racing his friend Tommy Weber at a track in Cannes. Richards took morphine for the pain, and within a few months, was using again. For sessions, he’d down a Mandrax, which is like a Quaalude, with whiskey. Charlie Watts was drinking brandy until he was past sloppy, and Jagger was taking speed to keep up with the hours Keith set. It was Richards’ place, and Mick was almost a hostage. When he left, it seemed nothing got done. Richards, left alone, could be downright dangerous. He almost burned himself, Anita and the entire house down when he fell asleep with a lit cigarette.

Richards was buying pure, uncut heroin from Castilian dealers. He was getting it by the kilo, and it became part of the social regimen of the villa. He shared so regularly with Gram Parsons that Mick got jealous, professionally. Parsons wanted Richards to produce his next album and join him on tour, which would have left the Stones without their guitarist for two years. Parsons was quietly asked to leave. Drugs split the Stones into two camps: Jagger, Wyman and Watts stuck to pills, booze and softer drugs. Richards, Taylor, producer Jimmy Miller, sax player Bobby Keys and engineer Andy Johns shot dope.

It cost them their gear. Wyman’s bass, Keys’ saxophone and nine of Richards’ guitars were stolen by dealers from Marseille who were owed money, while the entourage was watching television during the day. The Stones’ lawyers bribed local police to keep the party going, but even the most corrupt French cops, like Captain Louis Renault in Casablanca, have their limits. Besides, the Stones were welcomed in France because they were rich rock stars who were going to spend lots of money. If all their cash went to illegal and nontaxable drugs, the French government didn’t have much use for them.

The tipping point seems to have come with Anita Pallenberg. She maintained a steadily rocky relationship with the Stones. Richards stole, or saved, her from a paranoid and abusive Brian Jones, and there were rumors Jagger had an affair with her while filming Nic Roeg’s Performance in 1968. According to Greenfield’s book, Mick also slept with her while Richards was on the nod during the Exile sessions. Police came knocking to ask about a claim that Pallenberg had given heroin to the 14-year-old daughter of the villa’s chef.

The French police left without validating the charge, but said they’d be back to have a better look around the mansion. Richards and Pallenberg took off on his speedboat, fittingly named Mandrax II. The rest of the band slipped out soon after with the tapes. Pallenberg and Richards were charged with possession of heroin with intent to traffic in 1973. They were then exiled from France for the next two years.

The party continued when the Rolling Stones reconvened in Sunset Sound studios in Los Angeles. The band tossed TVs off the balconies of hotel rooms with Marc Bolan and Neil Young. The tapes for the album stretched from 1969 to 1972. The band edited hours of jams into song structure. Jagger scatted melodic placeholders for unfinished lyrics, and recruited session players like Billy Preston and Doctor John to fill in any sonic emptiness. The words to “Tumbling Dice,” for instance, were written last minute. The song has an unusual structure, as the verses become shorter, the choruses get longer. It may have Watts’ best drum performance.

Exile on Main Street contains some of Richards’ best guitar work. The album really belongs to Keith. “Happy” is almost entirely his. He’s on vocals, guitar and bass, with Miller on drums, Keys on maracas, overdubs from Taylor, and backing vocals from Jagger. “Sweet Black Angel” is a political love letter to civil rights activist Angela Davis. “Shake Your Hips” put the hair on ZZ Top’s lips. The album cover set the visual tone for punk. Some people claim it’s the Rolling Stones’ best work. It is a classic which catches them at their hedonistic peak. Its dirty, loosely played backing created an identifiable sound. The Stones’ first double LP, it is best heard in its entirety, and earned its street cred.

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1971: The Year Music Changed Everything is available to stream on Apple TV+ now.

The post How The Rolling Stones’ Exile on Main Street Earned Its Rep appeared first on Den of Geek.

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mickmarstookmyheart · 4 years

Text

Family Tour pt 2

Pairing: Mick Mars X Reader

Summary: (Y/N) is pretty worn-out. Some fluff moments at the beach, rehearsals and John being John?

"(Y/N)! Hey, are you even listening?" Vince asked when you barely said a word since he sat down to your table in the café of the hotel. You were supporting your head with your hand and stirring your coffee.

"What? Oh, sorry, Vinnie. What did you say?" You murmured.

"That I and the guys will go to a bar tonight so don't look for us. And what is going on with you? You look horrible."

"Thanks. You are being very kind, as always. I didn't expect anything else. And to answer to your outgoing tonight, I don't care, to be honest. At least, you will damage the rooms there and not here."

"You have serious problems, (Y/N). Go and have some sleep cause you look like who hasn't slept in 3 days." He was almost right. You slept an hour or two last night. And less the previous one. You had dark circles under your eyes and your eyes were crimson red. When you didn't react anything, Vince stood up and bend down next to you. "I'm worried about you. Take care." He placed a soft kiss on your cheek to assure you about what he said and left the café. You were happy that someone was worried about you, though this fact couldn't help your situation. The tour and the fact that John could appear at any time made you exhausted and worn-out. The constant worrying and stress just beat you.

You were reading the daily news and sipping your coffee when you heard a little yell. You lifted your head and saw Zoe and Mick, hand in hand approaching you. Zoe let Mick's hand and rushed to you as you spread your arms wide.

"Good morning, sweetheart. Did you sleep well?" You asked while picking her up and sat her on your knees. You rested your chin on her shoulders and filled your lungs with the scent of her hair and clothes. You smiled when she snuggled closer to you.

"Yes, mommy. And imagine I had a marvelous dream!" She said while she gesticulated.

"Really? And will you tell me?" You asked tickling her belly. In the meantime, Mick took the seat which Vince sat on before and was gazing at you and your daughter with pure love.

"No." She shook her head.

"And why not?"

"Daddy said that if I tell you then it won't happen. And I want this to happen." You raised an eyebrow to Mick who just shrugged but the corner of his mouth lifted.

"I see. Then I hope it will come true." You kissed the top of her head and hugged her tight. She was one of the reasons you didn't get mad. You tried to keep your promise to Mick that you won't neglect her, even it wasn't your intention on the first day. As Mick was peering you and Zoe, he noticed the small details of your look. He hated that you looked this bad, and he respected you the most. He somehow had a bad feeling though. You won't bear this long, even if you are a though person. Zoe's eyes lit up when Neil and Elizabeth appeared in the room, too, along with Heather and Tommy.

"Sorry, guys for disturbing." Heather started. "Just these two little troublemakers wanted to see Zoe. Is it a problem if I bring her with us?"

"You never disturb Heather. And I don't know what would I do without you, to be honest. And where are you going?"

"Just McDonald's to grab some food. Neil has been nagging me that he wants to eat burgers for two days." You just shook your head at the kid who just giggled. Your brows drew together.

"Would you mind if we join, too?"

∆

Heather, Tommy, and Vince's children were sitting in the backseat of the car while Mick drove and Zoe in your lap. Joan Jett's I Love Rock 'n' Roll was played on the radio, and you all sang along with it. Tommy's voice was pretty annoying but you laughed whenever he tried the high notes. Zoe played her air guitar earning a chuckle from Mick. You shared a look with him, he was happy that you spent some time with him and your daughter. Even if it was just a morning.

"There it is!" Neil screamed as he saw the restaurant. Mick drove in the drive-through and stopped by the window.

"Good morning, sir. What can I get you?" The lady asked preparing a note to jot down your order.

"Just a black coffee," Mick said earning a confused look from the worker and a big boo from you and the others. He was smirking but leaned out of the window to tell the rest of the order. When you got your food he didn't stop, instead, he jammed the car and headed towards the beach. The children yelled from the sudden speed but enjoyed every minute of it.

"Yes, dude!" Tommy screamed patting Mick's shoulder. When you arrived there you opened the back of the car and sat inside while consuming your food. Heather and Tommy sat on the top of the car watching the waves crashing the coast. It was a dazzling summer day with a vivid blue sky and a light breeze coming from the ocean. When the kids finished they ran down and started to build a fort from the sand. You leaned your head on Mick's shoulder as he placed a soft kiss on your forehead. You hummed and closed your eyes from the touch and intertwined your fingers.

"You know, I could get used to this pretty easily." Mick sighed. "Don't you think, Mrs. Mars?" He playfully pushed your shoulders with his.

"Me, too, Mr. Mars." You wanted nothing else than to stay there, watching the ocean, listening, and watching the kids playing around and staying this close to Mick. Though, you would happily leave out the moans from Tommy and Heather from the top of the car.

∆

However, you would stay much longer down the beach, the show must go on. Time for concerts, to prepare everything for everyone. To make sure the bands won't need to worry about anything, not that they were so stressed anytime.

"Hey, (Y/N), give me that bottle!" Nikki demanded. He looked fucked up, he was doing drugs as much as he could, not giving a damn about his well-being.

"Get it for yourself." Does using the word 'please' is this hard? You mumbled and kept filling in documents. The band just finished their rehearsal and it was time for Guns N Roses.

"Don't be this bitchy." Nikki grunted as he went backstage, probably to have a bump again.

"Don't listen to him," Vince noted as he jumped down from the stage next to you.

"Anyway, you look much better. And thanks, for treating Neil and Elizabeth as if they were yours. I appreciate it."

"Well, I feel better. But it's only a matter of time until someone pisses me off. And anytime, Vinnie. They are great kids."

"You are great, (Y/N)." He said while he was walking backward, accidentally bumping into Axl.

"Watch where you are going." They shared a not so friendly look. They weren't fond of each other from the very beginning, but you couldn't recall why. What is just pride? Or the media? "Here is our favorite temporary manager," Axl smirked and pulled you a sideways hug until the rest of the band also turned up. Steven looked much better, luckily. Duff, Slash, and Izzy greeted you with a big smile as they walked on the stage and were ready to tune. In the morning you had to ask at least 10 times to start playing music for the other band whereas you didn't need to say a word.

"So have you decided what songs will you play?" You asked putting down your papers and sitting down on the ground.

"Of course. Here are the lyrics if you want." Axl handed you a pile of papers.

"They are in that order, I think."

"Thank you so much. Then you can start if you want." You winked. The guys started with 'Welcome to the Jungle' which wasn't your favorite from them but you must add it was a pretty rad song. When it was time for 'Paradise City' you couldn't help but stand up, danced, and sang along with Axl. At the end of the song, you heard a light chuckle and someone clearing one's throat. You looked in the direction and saw Doc and John standing by the stage.

"Wow, (Y/N), I haven't seen you like this," John said. You folded your arms and tried to calm down. When he was approaching you along with Doc, your jaws tightened. "Hello, guys." He waved at the boys on the stage.

"Hey, man." Steve greeted your ex with a bit much happiness in his voice. Duff immediately elbowed him in the stomach to shut him up.

"Popcorn, he is the one who beat (Y/N). Don't be kind to him." He whispered in his ear.

"Then, not hello, you bastard." He mumbled while trying to breathe again. John lowered his head but you could see that he was smirking. This man creeped the hell out of you.

"Hey, (Y/N)." Your answer was a nod but didn't say a word.

"I think we are leaving. We don't want to disturb anything." Axl spoke up but John turned to him.

"Don't need to. Just wanted to say a few words to (Y/N)." He shoved his hands in his pockets while waiting for your reaction.

"Doc, can you please help the guys if they need anything?"

"Of course. And scream if you need anything." He patted your back and watched your steps until you were out of sight.

"So what is it?" You asked staying as far as possible.

"I just wanted to thank you. Again. I don't how you are doing this but it can't be easy for you."

"Well, I'm doing all these struggles for Zoe. Not for you and not even for me. My daughter's happiness is the most important to me. If it means to see you for a few times then let it be. Now go and visit her before I will drop you out with one of the guards." You tried to joke.

∆

"Joan Jett or Lita Ford?" Duff asked while taking a sip from his vodka. Both bands along with Heather, Vanity and you were sitting in a room backstage. Only a couple of minutes remained until the start of the concert. You were sitting in Mick's lap, his hands resting on your thighs.

"Lita," Nikki said earning a glare from Vanity. You chuckled cause you knew that once they dated in the early 80s. Your smile faded when Doc ranted in the room.

"Guns N Roses! It's time to go. Including you, little miss. No time for resting and laugh." Doc snapped with his usual attitude. You sighed as Mick pecked your lips and slapped on your thighs playfully.

"Don't hook up with some groupie while I'm gone!" You smirked and followed the other band before Doc closed the door.

"So, (Y/N)... " Slash walked back to you. "Joan Jett or Lita Ford?"

"I'm curious, too," Axl yelled.

"Come on, (Y/N)! Be honest." Duff added. It's easy to say.

"Don't tell us that you haven't even been with a girl." Slash laughed seeing your facial expression.

"Leave her alone!" Izzy spoke up. Sometimes you were thinking that how he and Mick looked and behaved alike.

"Maybe if you behave well, I will tell ya after the concert." You grinned and pushed the guitarist on the stage.

It was the band's first big tour and though most of the fans came to see Mötley you could see many transparent with the name of the band, the logo, and even the name of the members, mostly Axl's.

"Hello, kid," Doc said placing his hand on your shoulder. "Sorry to drag you out here. I just wanted to avoid them to piss you off. I know that you are quite moody nowadays."

"How kind is everyone nowadays." You hummed.

"I meant it. And I saw how much you got along with these guys." He gestured towards the stage just at the moment Axl looked at the both of you. He winked and kept singing the song. "I was wondering..."

"No. Thank you, Doc but no. Don't matter how much can they chase me to hell with their behavior, I won't ever leave them. They are my boys." You looked up at Doc.

"Alright. I won't push anything." He winked.

∆

"It was pretty rad, man!" Tommy yelled as he high-fived with another band who was just running down from the stage.

"Thanks, man," Steven said with a big smile.

"Thanks for preparing the crowd for the real concert." Vince laughed.

"Vinnie!" You snapped. "That wasn't nice."

"Don't bother, (Y/N). It doesn't worth it." Axl murmured sending the other singer death glares. You just shook your head how they can't tolerate each other. Mick arrived, too along with Nikki and Zoe sitting on the bassist's shoulders. "Hello, little one."

"Steven!" Zoe giggled as Nikki put her down on the ground.

"Betrayal. We haven't seen each other for 3 hours and the first person she wants is you." You chuckled folding your arms.

"It's not his fault that he looks this adorable," Duff added as he squeezed Steven's cheeks, making him blush. You held your hand over your mouth not to laugh, but seeing the other guys' looks it was pretty hard.

"Alright, guys. Let's go." Vince broke the awkward silence and ran on the stage.

"Break a leg! "You screamed before they were on the stage.

They guys played one or two songs before John appeared. He stood next to you but kept the distance.

"What are you doing here?"

"I don't really like those guys now but that doesn't mean I hate their songs, too." He chuckled.

"Sorry. I'm not at my very best nowadays." You murmured kicking in a stone.

"No worry. And I kinda get it. Being a manager for one band can be exhausted. Not to mention two bands. You are doing great." He stated while looking at you with a shy smile.

"Thank you." You answered.

"By the way, Zoe is pretty obsessed with the other band. Especially with that blondie guy with a cheerful smile."

"You mean Steven. And yes. She is quite a lucky fan." You snickered. "She always gets the attention she wants."

"I could imagine. She did the same at your office back in the days."

"Yeah." You smiled thinking back when Zoe came and all of your colleagues came and played with her. "But she feels home here, in this environment. She has quite a taste in music, too. She is a true rocker."

"I hoped so. Anyway, I wanted to ask something. Would you mind if I take Zoe with me for the night? I had my room in the same hotel as you. So she won't be far."

"Alright."

∆

"Be right back. I will just go and have a look on Zoe." You told Mick as you stood up from the couch in the hall of the hotel.

"Alright. Kiss her instead of me." He added.

"Sure." You headed towards the lift and press the button as you stepped in. There was no one in the hallway due to the time. It was almost 8 pm. When you arrived at the room you lightly knocked on the door. A few minutes later, John opened the door.

"Hey, (Y/N). What's up?"

"Sorry for disturbing. I just wanted to say goodnight to Zoe. Can I come in?" You asked.

"Of course." He invited you into the room and closed the door.

"Where is she?" You inquired when you looked around and couldn't find her.

"I'm sorry, (Y/N). But you didn't make things easier." He said just before he hit you in the face so hard you collapsed on the ground and lost consciousness.

∆

Next Part

Tags: @leatherandheels @karrotkate and @littlemisscare-all 💛

I hope it's okay 💛

#motley crue #glam rock #mick mars #nikki sixx #rocknroll #tommy lee #vince neil #80srock #80s music #mick mars x reader #mick mars imagine #mick mars x oc #motley crue imagin #motley crue x reader #motley crue imagine

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dherzogblog · 3 years

Text

songs/20

Happy Holidays Everyone! I started making these yearly playlists in 2001 as an attempt to connect with friends in the wake of 911. It was just before the dawn of ITunes, and way before social media. We were not in touch like we are today. I burned dozens of individual cd’s one at a time, printed up customized jewel case covers and snail mailed them all out. It was an annual month-long labor of love. Over the past few years, streaming music has made it much easier and faster to compile and distribute, and frankly much more fun. I still look forward to putting the playlist and blog together and sharing it with all of you. Particularly this year as it gives me a chance to connect with so many friends I haven’t seen in quite some time. It was a tremendously challenging year for all of us. I was grateful to have had my family here in LA the entire time, we remain healthy and well. The west coast Herzogs know just how lucky we have been. The next year will not be without its own challenges, but I'm hopeful we are able to move past this pandemic and the exhausting events of the past 4. More than that, I look forward to seeing each and every one of you in 2021. Until then, be safe, be well, and be good to one another. Enjoy the music.

ox peace, dh

Los Angeles CA. December 2020

Khruangbin - Time (You And I) Don’t ask me to pronounce the name of this eclectic trio from Texas, but this dubby disco tune had me returning to its chilled out groove often during the last few decidedly “un-chill” months. Dreamy and funky, the groove takes me back to NYC’s early 80′s club scene and Ze Records releases from the likes of Kid Creole and Coati Mundi.

Anderson .Paak- Lockdown Scenes from the front, June 2020

Bill Withers (1938-2020)- Use Me The legendary Bill Withers left the playing field at the top of his game in the early 80′s, hardly heard from again. And while he didn't pass from Covid, his healing pop hymn Lean On Me seemed to be everywhere as people found music to help them cope with the challenges of the pandemic. Withers left behind a legendary and enduring group of hit songs that moved easily from soul to folk to pop, not to mention the subtle rolling funk of this one.

Black Pumas- Fire Strong debut from an unlikely Austin duo that garnerd both buzz and grammy nods. The critics are calling it “psychedelic soul”. Not quite sure that nails it, but like the artists coming up next, they’re carving out new ground while drawing inspiration from classic sources.

Gabe Lee- Babylon

Marcus King- Wildflowers and Wine

Charley Crockett- Welcome to Hard Times

Three artists that are literally changing the face of Country and Americana music. Soulful, authentic and diverse, reaching back for inspiration but always looking forward. If you like this sort of stuff they are all worth checking out. Each album is filled with quality songs.

Low Cut Connie_ Private Lives Philly’s Low Cut Connie are back at it with a double album that plays like the soundtrack to a boozy night at your favorite bar. Sweaty, funky and not a little bit messy. If Peter Wolf and Bruce had a kid it would be this blue eyed soul boy. Adam Weiner grew up in the shadow of the Jersey shore and can't help but have a bit of that E Street hustle.

Willie Nile- New York at Night One of New York’s beloved adopted son’s dropped this love letter right into the jaws of a battered metropolis driven to its knees by the pandemic. It was heartbreaking to listen as the “city that never sleeps” came to a full stop. Somehow I still found myself coming back to it, imagining night’s ahead, when NYC is back on its feet and I’m roaming its streets. Looking for music, a beer, or maybe just a slice, and fueled by the irreplaceable energy and promise of the greatest city on earth.

The Long Ryders- Down to The Well Americana pioneers the Long Ryders reunited last year for a surprisingly solid album. This single sounds like it could have been recorded during their 80′s heyday featuring their trademark Byrds like jangle and harmonies, but the lyrics mark this song as unmistakably 2020.

The Speedways- Kisses Are History UK power pop outfit reach back to the the 60′s on this sweet slice of retro pop perfection.

Billie Joe Armstrong- That Thing You Do

In the early days of the pandemic we had all our kids (+ a significant other) at our house for a few months. It worked out great and we were luckier than most. The biggest issue was keeping enough food, weed and wine around. There were some great nights with amazing meals, followed by gathering around the TV together. We re-watched The Sopranos, binged Billy On The Street, and revisited some of our favorite movies. One night we went back to a old family favorite, Tom Hanks’ underrated love letter to the one hit wonders of the post Beatles era, That Thing You Do! I’ve seen the movie several times and it never fails to please. A true feel good film and a perfect Kodak snapshot capturing a simpler time in American pop culture.

While we watch the unlikely chart topper’s The Oneders fizzle as fast as they rose to fame, its not really the point. The movie is really an old fashioned love story. Playing like a perfect hit song you can listen to over and over, full of both hooks and heart. I always thought the title track, written by Fountains Of Wayne leader Adam Schlesinger (who we lost to Covid), brilliantly captured the British Invasion sound every group wanted after The Beatles stormed America. Green Day’s Billie Joe Armstrong must agree. During the pandemic he cut an album’s worth of cool covers including a faithful version of this one.

Gerard Way (W/Judith Hill - Here Comes the End A tale of discovering music in 2020: Heard this on a Netflix trailer for the series The Umbrella Factory. Turns out it is performed by Gerard Way (My Chemical Romance) who also writes the comic book the series is based on. (got all that?) He’s joined on this searing garage/psych rave up by the talented and versatile Judith Hill doing her best Merry Clayton.

Hinds- Spanish Bombs I’ve been following this Madrid based, all female outfit of punky garage rockers for a few years now. I think they are pretty great. This track, recorded for a Joe Strummer tribute bursts with an unbridled joy the stone faced and politically minded Clash could never muster. I bet Joe would love it though

The Secret Sisters- Hand Over My Heart Have enjoyed their harmonies for some time now. This one gives me vague Wilson Phillips vibes and I don’t really mind.

Tame Impala- Breathe Deeper I know I’m supposed to like this guy, all the cool kids do, I’ve even seen the band at Coachella. Over the years very little of the music has stuck to me, but the pandemic offered a bit more free time to dig into this funky dubby, chilled out jam, and it stuck with me. Not to mention that 2020 was all about deep breaths.

Ledisi (feat.Corey Henry)- What Kind of Love Is That Ledisi is back with some slinky, sultry R&B and jazzy vocals

Dinner Party- FreezeTag An R&B/Jazz collective featuring Terrace Martin, Robert Glasper, 9th Wonder and Kamasi Washington use sweet soul on heartbreaking and all too familiar tale..

Toots and The Maytals- Time Tough I’ve written an awful lot about my love for Reggae over the years. Right after Bob Marley kicked the door down for me, Toots showed me around the house. Ska, rock steady, and roots. He was true reggae royalty and sadly we lost him to Covid, just after he released what would be his last album. Check my Toots tribute blog and playlist.

Mungo’s Hi Fi- The Beat Goes SKA! These clever UK roots reggae collective never fail to surprise. This kitschy Sonny & Cher cover managed to make me smile every time I heard it. No mean feat in 2020

Stone Foundation (feat. Durand Jones)- Hold on To Love Frequent collaborators with Paul Weller (he appears on a track on the album), Stone Foundation are back with another batch of their UK soul revival stylings. This one features Durand Jones ( of Durand Jones & The Indications) on vocals and some great reggae style horns at the top.

The Pretenders- You Can’t Hurt A Fool Can’t resist a good torch song, especially sung by the smokey voiced Chrissie Hynde. Was kind of shocked at how many good songs were on this album.

Shelby Lynne_ Don’t Even Believe in Love Sultry country soul and one of her strongest albums in awhile.

Jaime Wyatt- Neon Cross Outlaw country has a new bad girl. And in case you didn’t think she was serious, she enlisted producer Shooter Jennings (and his mom Jessi Colter on one track) to help make her point.

Daniel Donato- Justice 25 year old guitar prodigy call his music “cosmic country”. Ok, now I’m listening. You should be too.

The Jayhawks- This Forgotten Town 30 plus + after their debut this Twin Cities alt country group led by founding member Gary Louris continue to deliver. They find their inner Neil Young on this one.

Lucero- Time To Go Home God I wish I was in a bar right now listening to this, even if I might be crying in my beer.

John Prine (1946 -2020)- Lake Marie We lost so many this year, but this one really stung. A true American songwriting treasure, who was still making great music against all odds right up to his untimely passing. His songs are known for their simplicity, and economy of words. but this one goes against the grain. I’m still not exactly certain what it’s about. Sorrowful and haunting, yet somehow uplifting and redemptive. I heard him perform it live here in Los Angeles a just over a year ago and it has stuck in my head ever since. There is surely a place in heaven for the great John Prine. He sang about it on his final studio album in 2018. Ironically it became the last song on his last record.

Thanks for making it this far....

***Play the entire songs/20 Spotify playlist HERE!***

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drunkenraccoons · 4 years

Text

Top 248 Songs

1. Mary Jane’s Last Dance - Tom Petty & the Heartbreakers

2. Cowgirl in the Sand - Neil Young & Crazy Horse

3. Caught in the Hustle - Immortal Technique

4. Hand in My Pocket - Alanis Morissette

5. Pulse - Ani DiFranco

6. Dogs - Pink Floyd

7. When the Music’s Over - The Doors

8. Eet - Regina Spektor

9. Providence - Ani DiFranco

10. Change Your Mind - Neil Young & Crazy Horse

11. It’s Good to Be King [Live Anthology] - Tom Petty & the Heartbreakers

12. Tangled Up in Blue - Bob Dylan

13. Pigs - Pink Floyd

14. We R Who We R - Kesha

15. No Title - Ten Years After

16. Ribs - Lorde

17. Guns, Bitches, Brawls & Bottles - GG Allin

18. 2 On - Tinashe

19. The She - The Breeders

20. Raining Blood - Slayer

21. Cortez the Killer - Neil Young & Crazy Horse

22. Since I’ve Been Loving You - Led Zeppelin

23. Like a Hurricane [Weld] - Neil Young & Crazy Horse

24. Angie - The Rolling Stones

25. Darkness Darkness - Robert Plant

26. Nuthin but a ‘G’ Thang - Dr. Dre & Snoop Dogg

27. Wake Up Time - Tom Petty

28. Complicated - Avril Lavigne

29. Det som Engang Var - Burzum

30. Ride the Lightning - Metallica

31. Cloud Blood - Ani DiFranco

32. Don’t Think Twice, It’s Alright - Bob Dylan

33. The Next Episode - Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg & Nate Dogg

34. Ghost of the Gang - Indigo Girls

35. New Ways to Fly - Garth Brooks

36. Bleed the Freak - Alice In Chains

37. Walls (No. 3) - Tom Petty & the Heartbreakers

38. Roadhouse Blues - The Doors

39. Sister Morphine - Rolling Stones

40. Serpentine - Ani DiFranco

41. Oedipus - Regina Spektor

42. LA Woman - The Doors

43. My Journey to the Stars - Burzum

44. Addicted - DJ Clay

45. The Final Cut - Pink Floyd

46. The Wrong Thing to Do - Mudcrutch

47. Soft Shoulder - Ani DiFranco

48. Simple Twist of Fate - Bob Dylan

49. Like an Inca - Neil Young

50. Jesus’ Todd - Burzum

51. Limehouse - The Breeders

52. Untouchable - Taylor Swift

53. Turn it Off - Paramore

54. The Last Supper - Jesus Christ Superstar

55. None Shall Pass - Aesop Rock

56. November Hotel (Live) - Mad Season

57. Signs of Age - Jake Holmes

58. Will to Love - Neil Young

59. Seek & Destroy - Metallica

60. I Can’t Keep From Crying Sometimes [Recorded Live] - Ten Years After

61. Tik Tok (Untold Remix) - Kesha

62. Forever & Always (Piano Version) - Taylor Swift

63. You Don’t Know How it Feels [Mojo 2010] - Tom Petty & the Heartbreakers

64. Dilate - Ani DiFranco

65. Rockin’ in the Free World - Neil Young

66. Breakdown [Live Anthology] - Tom Petty & the Heartbreakers

67. Two Suns in the Sunset - Pink Floyd

68. What’s Been Going On? - Amos Lee

69. There is a Light that Never Goes Out - Becca Stevens Band

70. Almost Cut my Hair - CSNY

71. What’s Up? - 4 Non Blondes

72. There Was Never a Moment When Evil Was Real - Non

73. Only God Can Judge Me - Tupac

74. Benighted - Opeth

75. Cliff - Lapsley

76. Tired Eyes - Neil Young

77. Forgot About Dre - Dr. Dre & Eminem

78. Time - Pink Floyd

79. Lost on You - LP

80. If it Makes You Happy - Sheryl Crow

81. Hollaback Girl - Gwen Stefani

82. Cause of Death - Immortal Technique

83. Two-Headed Boy pt 2 - Neutral Milk Hotel

84. No Quarter [Song Remains the Same] - Led Zeppelin

85. Rockets - Cat Power

86. Out of Range- Ani DiFranco

87. Dumb - Nirvana

88. Sins of My Youth - Tom Petty & the Heartbreakers

89. All Weekend Long - Jack & Jack

90. Break My Body - Pixies

91. Thrasher - Neil Young

92. Closer (R3hab Remix) - The Chainsmokers

93. In the Kingdom Where Everything Dies, The Sky is Mort - Cryptopsy

94. Dead Flowers - Rolling Stones

95. Pavlov’s Daughter - Regina Spektor

96. Morgen Roede - Burzum

97. Suicide Note part 2 - Pantera

98. God Am - Alice In Chains

99. Five to One - The Doors

100. Friends in Low Places - Garth Brooks

101. Careful - Paramore

102. Seasons in the Abyss - Slayer

103. Fearless - Hypocrisy

104. Through My Sails - Neil Young

105. Long Gone Day - Mad Season

106. Dance With the Devil - Immortal Technique

107. The Outside - Taylor Swift

108. Crazy Kids - Kesha

109. Opened - The Breeders

110. We Die Young - Alice In Chains

111. Somedays - Regina Spektor

112. Masters of War - Bob Dylan

113. War - Burzum

114. The Nile Song - Pink Floyd

115. A Woman in Love [Live Anthology] - Tom Petty & the Heartbreakers

116. Misfits - Neil Young

117. Down By the River - Low & Dirty Three

118. High Hopes - Pink Floyd

119. Paper Planes - MIA

120. Night Moves - Bob Seger

121. I Took a Pill in Ibiza (Seeb Remix) - Mike Posner

122. No Sleep - Wiz Khalifa

123. Still Don’t Give a Fuck - Eminem

124. Long, Long Time Ago - Javier Navarrete

125. You are Not Bliss, You Are Not Free - Nekrasov

126. Radio Friendly Unit Shifter - Nirvana

127. I’d Swear There Was Somebody Here - David Crosby

128. Party and Bullshit - Notorious B.I.G.

129. Bandit - Neil Young

130. Beast of Burden - Rolling Stones

131. Painter - Lapsley

132. Redemption Song - Bob Marley

133. Shine On You Crazy Diamond part one - Pink Floyd

134. Gotta Serve Somebody - Bob Dylan

135. In the Light [Demo version] - Led Zeppelin

136. Purple Haze - Jimi Hendrix Experience

137. When I Die - GG Allin

138. Pints of Guinness Make You Strong - Against Me!

139. Interstellar Overdrive - Pink Floyd

140. The Old Laughing Lady [Canterburry House] - Neil Young

141. Strength Beyond Strength - Pantera

142. You Know You’re Right - Nirvana

143. Five Years - David Bowie

144. Because the Night - Patti Smith Group

145. Crawling Back to You - Tom Petty

146. Northern Star - Hole

147. Long Live - Taylor Swift

148. Trying to find a Balance - Atmosphere

149. Southern Man - Neil Young

150. Party By Myself - Cooper Phillip

151. Christmas in the Sand - Colbie Callait

152. Cool for the Summer - Demi Lovato

153. Sentimental Tune - Tegan & Sara

154. Jump in the Fire - Metallica

155. Chains - Torres

156. Willing to Fight [Living in Clip] - Ani DiFranco

157. Tuff Ghost - The Unicorns

158. Of a Lifetime - Journey

159. Heaven on Their Minds - Jesus Christ Superstar

160. Obnoxious - Immortal Technique

161. Call Me Maybe - Carly Rae Jepsen

162. Witching Hour - xxyyxx

163. Wolves - Garth Brooks

164. Carry On/Questions - CSNY

165. Levitate Me - Pixies

166. Rotten Apple - Alice In Chains

167. Summer in the City - Regina Spektor

168. It’s Alright Ma (I’m Only Bleedin’) - Bob Dylan

169. King’s Highway [Mojo 2010] - Tom Petty & the Heartbreakers

170. Heartbreaker [How the West Was Won] - Led Zeppelin

171. Meet Rhonda - Douglas Pipes

172. Out on the Weekend - Neil Young

173. Near Dark - Burial

174. Aud Layne Sayne - Jimi Hendrix

175. Back of My Hand - Rolling Stones

176. Blank Space - Taylor Swift

177. Cymbaline - Pink Floyd

178. Animal (Billboard Remix) - Kesha

179. 4:41 AM (Sexual Revolution) - Roger Waters

180. Wild Horses [Stripped] - Rolling Stones

181. Like a Rolling Stone - Bob Dylan

182. Have a Cigar - Pink Floyd

183. Cradle and All - Ani DiFranco

184. I Should Have Known It - Tom Petty & the Heartbreakers

185. King of Carrot Flowers pt 1 - Neutral Milk Hotel

186. Hard Sun - Eddie Vedder

187. Fuckin’ Up [Weld] - Neil Young & Crazy Horse

188. The River - Bruce Springsteen

189. Maria Maria - Santana

190. Wake Up - Wiz Khalifa

191. Meander - Pedestrian Deposit

192. 4+20 - Stephen Stills

193. Buzzcut Season - Lorde

194. Going to California - Led Zeppelin

195. Rock Music - Pixies

196. Atlantic City - Bruce Springsteen

197. Legalize It - MaZe

198. Warrior - Kesha

199. Never Been - Logic

200. Weakness - Opeth

201. Glass House (Turkey Tamale Remix) - Ani DiFranco

202. Joining You - Alanis Morissette

203. Black Queen [CSNY 1974] - CSNY

204. Falling Short - Lapsley

205. A Better Son/Daughter - Rilo Kiley

206. Mr. Rager - Kid Cudi

207. Drive By - Neil Young & Crazy Horse

208. Holla at Me - Tupac

209. Fossil Record - White Suns

210. Overlap - Ani DiFranco

211. We Multiply - AIDS Wolf

212. Soak up the Sun - Sheryl Crow

213. Heart of the Sunrise - Yes

214. Cowgirl in the Sand [Massey Hall] - Neil Young

215. Wake Up - Mad Season

216. Mr. Tambourine Man - Bob Dylan

217. The Con - Tegan & Sara

218. Teardrops on My Guitar (Pop Mix) - Taylor Swift

219. On the Radio - Regina Spektor

220. Nude as the News - Cat Power

221. The Gunner’s Dream - Pink Floyd

222. Fate to Fatal - Breeders

223. Red Strokes - Garth Brooks

224. Point of no Return - Immortal Technique

225. Break on Through - The Doors

226. I’m Alive - Helloween

227. Blackened - Metallica

228. Immigrant Song [How the West Was Won] - Led Zeppelin

229. Luna - Tom Petty & the Heartbreakers

230. Anyday - Ani DiFranco

231. Sweet Virginia - Rolling Stones

232. I Know Places - Ryan Adams

233. Carrionshine - Cryptopsy

234. Money Becomes King - Tom Petty & the Heartbreakers

235. Laugh, I Nearly Died - Rolling Stones

236. Keilohesten - Burzum

237. Down by the River - Neil Young & Crazy Horse

238. Revolution is My Name - Pantera

239. D-7 - Nirvana

240. Dead - Pixies

241. Misery Business - Paramore

242. Burden - Opeth

243. Enter Sandman - Metallica

244. Clash With Reality - Pantera

245. Die Young - Kesha

246. Frogs - Alice In Chains

247. The Ghost Song - The Doors

248. Visions of Johanna - Bob Dylan

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crue-sixx · 5 years

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Ted to the Rescue (Theodore “Ted” Logan Imagine)

This was requested.

Summary: You’re sick and stuck at home, but Ted’s there to make it all better.

You sighed as you sat in your bed, feeling bored and miserable beyond belief. You were sick and forced to stay home from school, which you most certainly didn’t mind, but it also meant that you couldn’t hang out with your two best friends.

Bill S. Preston, Esq. and Ted Theodore Logan, as they liked to call themselves, were your best friends and had been since your middle school days. You had just moved to San Dimas and walked into school, wearing a Van Halen shirt. The two boys immediately befriended you and you’d been inseparable ever since. You were even in their band, Wyld Stallyns. You played the drums while Bill and Ted both played guitar. You three weren’t super great, but you were all practicing and becoming better as time went on.

You had been cooped up in your room for going on three days and were about to go crazy. You hadn’t been able to hang out with your friends or jam out with them, which you found to be totally bogus. They kept in touch with you over the phone at least.

You flopped back into your bed and stared up at the ceiling as Mötley Crüe played in the background. All you’d been able to do is listen to music, read, or watch tv. It became boring after a while.

Vince Neil just started singing the lyrics to “Take Me to the Top” when someone busted into your room. You raised up quickly and looked, freaked out because no one was supposed to be in your home. Both of your parents were away at work while your sibling was at school.

“Greetings my most excellent friend!” Ted exclaimed from the doorway, his hands full of what appeared to be board games. “I come bearing gifts in your most needed time.”

“Ted?” You asked with a confused look on your face. “What are you doing here? You’re supposed to be in school and I’m sick, which means you aren’t supposed to be here. How did you even get in the house?”

“I skipped,” he replied as he shrugged as if it was nothing. “It was bogus! Bill wasn’t there because he had to go to the dentist so I was all alone. Also, you forget that I know where the spare key is.”

“I hate that and all, but your dad is going to be so pissed if he finds out that you skipped school,” you told him. “You know he’s just trying to find any excuse to ship you off to military school in Alaska.”

“I know,” Ted said and rolled his eyes. “It’s bogus, but I’ll take the heat. I haven’t seen you in days. I’ve really missed you and I knew you must be going out of your mind cooped up. I thought I’d come and cheer you up.”

You smiled at that. Ted was such a sweetheart. He was always doing things like this for you and for Bill also. He liked to make sure his friends were happy and would do anything for them. That’s just the kind of person he was.

“I really appreciate that, Ted,” you told him. “I’m sick though. You shouldn’t be here. I’d hate to put you in the shape that I’m in. It’s definitely most heinous.”

“It’s a chance I’m willing to take,” he replied as he stepped into your room and laid everything down on your bed. “Now make some room for me so we can play some board games and listen to some great tunes.”

You scooted over and made some room for him. He sat down right across from you and bobbed his head along to the music, seeming to enjoy your music choice. He showed you the games he brought and you ended up choosing Battleship. It’d been a while since you’d played it so you thought you would give it a whirl.

————

“This is bogus!” Ted yelled as he looked frustrated. “You sunk my battleship...again!”

You grinned, triumphantly, and stuck your tongue out at your best friend. It seemed you were both quite competitive and he was not happy that you were winning. It was all in good fun of course, which is what you kept reminding him.

“I guess you’re just not as skilled as I am,” you told him and shrugged your shoulders.

“I demand a rematch,” he said as he looked at you.

“Ted, I’m tired of playing this,” you told him. “I beat you fair and square.”

He sighed and nodded as he accepted his defeat. He put the game away as you grabbed a tissue from the nightstand and sneezed into it a few times. You groaned as you wiped your nose then sniffled. Ted looked over at you and frowned.

“You feeling alright, babe?” He asked you in concern.

“Yeah, just still dealing with this mess,” you told him and waved it off. “I’ve been feeling a bit better though so I guess that’s a way of looking on the bright side.”

You glanced over at your alarm clock on your nightstand as you threw the tissue into the small waste basket, finding that it was time for you to take your antibiotics again. You were about to stand up, but Ted stopped you.

“Where are you going?” He asked you. “You should be staying in bed.”

“Alright, dad,” you told him as you rolled your eyes and snorted. “I’m going to grab some water so I can take my antibiotics.”

“No, I’ll go get it for you,” he replied and smiled as he stood up. “I’m thirsty myself. Need anything else while I’m down there?”

“Maybe you can bring up a snack?” You asked and used your puppy dog eyes on him.

“You got it, babe,” he said and smiled before he left to go down to your kitchen.

You moved off of your bed and put on a different record, opting with some Guns N’ Roses. You plopped back down in your bed and played with a loose thread you found on your sweatpants as you waited for Ted. You were in better spirits since he showed up at least. You weren’t feeling nearly as miserable as you had been.

Ted finally walked back into your room, carrying two bottles of water along with some snack foods. You smiled as he deposited the snacks onto your bed then he handed you your water.

“Thank you, Ted,” you told him as you took it from him.

You took your antibiotic before you grabbed for a bag of cookies that he had brought up. He was already munching on some chips, happily.

“This beats the shit they feed us at school,” Ted commented with a mouth full of chips.

“Theodore,” you scolded him, playfully.

“What?” He asked. “It’s true! The food at school is most heinous. Apparently it was going to be meatloaf surprise today.”

“Eww,” you commented with a disgusted look.

“Yeah,” Ted said and shook his head. “The surprise is that it tastes like shit.”

You laughed at him as he started laughing himself. Usually all you did was goof off with each other like this, but it was always fun. You were just missing Bill in all of this. Of course you hung out with the boys separately and they hung out without you sometimes too, but you were like the three musketeers together.

The rest of the day was spent talking, listening to music, and goofing off. It was perfect. It really lifted your spirits up and made you feel better. Ted made sure you were taking your medicine when you were supposed to and was helping to take care of you. He was being a great friend.

“I guess I should be heading home before your parents come home and find me here,” Ted said.

“Yeah, they told me no visitors while I’m sick,” you told him. “I’m pretty sure that included you too. Thank you for dropping by though. I really appreciate it and it was most excellent.”

“Of course, Y/N,” he said and smiled. “I wasn’t going to let you suffer alone. I haven’t seen you in days and I really missed you.”

You smiled at that as he held his arms open for a hug. Your eyes widened slightly as you shook your head at him.

“Ted, no,” you told him. “I’m sick. You’ve already risked being around me enough.”

“I don’t care,” he said. “Now come over here and give me a hug or I’ll just come over there and do it.”

You rolled your eyes, but laughed as you went over to him and wrapped your arms around him. He wrapped his around you in return and squeezed you to him. You giggled as he let go of you and gathered all of the board games up to take with him.

“I’ll call and check in on you later, babe,” he told you. “Stay excellent.”

“Stay excellent, Ted,” you told him as he left your room.

You smiled as you sat there alone. You weren’t feeling bad or lonely like you had been earlier thanks to your best friend, Ted.

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quantumquinn · 4 years

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Vinyl and Vibes: Perfect Album Edition

Yes indeed, it is that time again, time for me to spread my musical opinions to the wind for no one to listen! But this time, there’s a twist! I’m going to do more of a retrospective, where I list off what I think are perfect albums.

Perfect albums are much harder to come by than just good jamz or singles, and imo give a much more satisfying listening experience. Of course, there’s a lot of music I love out there, so this page could go on forever if I let it (instead of just ‘probably too long of a post’). To keep things interesting I’m going to divide my albums into three sections, high school, undergrad, and grad school, based on when I discovered the music. To keep me honest, I’m only going to allow 4 albums in each timeframe. After some experimentation, 4 albums seems to be enough to get good picks out there, while still forcing me to make tough calls.

I’ve tried to pick albums that I keep coming back to. There will be some obvious choices, some controversial ones, and some that nobody else has heard of. I’m sure there will be plenty of quibbling about my choices (no Mark, obviously no Dan Deacon), but what’s the fun of this without a little provocation anyway?

So let’s get started!

High School

1) American Idiot -- Green Day

I mean this one’s a gimme. And, disturbingly, somehow more relevant than ever. But let’s be real, this is Green Day at their perfect balance between pretentious, obnoxious, and angsty and it’s great.

Favorite Song: Whatsername

2) The Black Parade -- My Chemical Romance

As if this wasn’t gonna be on here?

Favorite Song: Mama

3) Chase this Light -- Jimmy Eat World

This one is probably more controversial, but goddamn I love this album. Jimmy Eat World is generally not a happy band, but in this album they figure out the trick of writing songs with sad lyrics with melodies that sound happy and I love it love it love it.

Favorite Song: Here It Goes

4) The Everglow -- Mae

This album defines high school feelings for me. My iPod (you know back when you had one) said I listened to it ~400 times. And that seems about right. Every song on this album is good, but the experience as a whole transcends the parts. It as an album that pulls together as an hour long experience far better than anything else I know.

Favorite Song - The Everglow

Honorable Mentions: Commit this to Memory -- Motion City Soundtrack, Hello Hurricane -- Switchfoot, Artwork -- The Used, This is an Outrage -- Capital Lights

Aright, Undergrad, let’s go!

1) Would it Kill You? -- Hellogoodbye

This album has the perfect sense of fun and loving life that really sets my favorite music apart. Just hearing the first notes makes me want to dance forty minutes away.

Favorite Song: When We First Met

2) Jukebox the Ghost -- Jukebox the Ghost

Anyone who’s talked to me about music over the past few years knew that Jukebox was going to make onto this list. Jukebox’s songs have the perfect match of a jazzy piano with pop sensibilities and a little bit of rock to make me love them all. Every song on this album is iconic.

Favorite Song: Postcard

3) When I Was Younger -- Colony House

To be fair, this should really only qualify for the perfect first half of an album. But what a perfect first half! Every song is filled with musings on growing up that are unpretentious enough to be interesting and melodies catchy enough that they become hard to forget. I find myself coming back to this album over and over again, far more than I would have expected when I initially came across it.

Favorite Song: Caught Me by Surprise

4) The Colourist -- The Colourist

Man, the colourist only put out one full length album, but goddamn it slaps! I still listen to this puppy all the time. It actually brings up one of my biggest regrets about grad school: I bought tickets to go see the Colourist perform all these songs live, but missed my opportunity since that later turned out to be the visit weekend for Penn State. In the end, it was probably worth missing the concert. But only probably! They’re that good!

Favorite Song: What Can I Say?

Honorable Mentions: Celebrasion -- Sleeper Agent , The Narrative -- The Narrative, King -- O.A.R

Grad School

Ok, we’re nearing the end now, which means it’s time for my taste to get a lot more folky. I’m sorry, that’s just how it is.

1) Amateurs -- Royal Teeth

Ok, so technically this is an EP, but I think its six songs easily merit inclusion on this list. As always I go nuts for having a female-male singer duo. Combined with the energy and indie vibe that always works for me, this album is a thirty minutes extremely well spent. Their album Glow is also pretty fantastic and arguably should be on here too.

Favorite Song: Is It Just Me

2) Places -- The National Parks

Yes, that’s right, this album is dedicated to one of my favorite subjects: places! Closely followed by people and things. But leaving the title aside, this is a fantastic folk pop album that’s overflowing with both catchy tunes and heart. It’s a great experience.

Favorite Song: Esparanca

3) The Wilder Beyond -- Hillsburn

Man, Hillsburn is a band that puts their all into their music. From the opening drum notes of the album, you can feel that this is going to be a great ride. The album covers a wide range of moods, from excited to nostalgic to melancholy, but in every song, Hillsburn is putting their heart into these songs and it shows.

Favorite Songs: Strange Clouds

4) Wild World -- Bastille

Bastille is one of those perfect bands that it feels like I barely need to introduce (It feels like if you’ve been alive in the past year, you’ve heard happier). If you had any doubts of how incredible they (and particularly the vocal talent) are, this album completely puts it to rest. I have to admit, their lyrics are a bit depressed, but they make up for it with insanely catchy songs that you will always be returning to. I debated between putting this album or their newest album, Doom Days, as my pick since they’re both fantastic, but this one technically came out during my grad school, so here it goes!

Favorite Song: Snakes

Honorable Mentions: I Want to Grow Up -- Colleen Green, Twin Forks -- Twin Forks, Nights Like This -- Eli Paperboy Reed

And finally...

The Special Derp Perfect Album Pick!!!

Mouth Sounds -- Neil Cicierega

This album has no explanation. And it’s great. Vivid Memories Turn to Fantasies is a legitimate bop.

----

And that’s it! That wraps up this special extra long quarantine edition of vinyl and vibes! Hope any remaining readers enjoyed this musical tour. Any thoughts? Albums I left out? Wrong opinions? Mad that Ieft out the album with Wonderwall by Oasis on it? Send those thoughts my way!

#vinyl and vibes #perfect album edition #i had way more fun writing this than anyone will have reading it #but that is ok!#mine #this is post is way too goddamn long lol #oh well

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covenden7 · 4 years

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30 Day Song Challenge(In Isolation)

So, during lockdown I have seen a number of people posting on Instagram their 30 day song challenge. What a great idea, I adore music and it is a huge part of my life. As I wanted to get involved without the commitment of posting daily, whilst working from home, I have decided to post my 30 days in one go, as a blog. This give me the chance to talk about my reasons behind why these songs are personal to me and what memories come flooding back, be it, good or bad. I am not even sure if I will share this so if I have, I hope you enjoy it, would love to hear anyone’s thoughts on either a song choice or this as a whole.

Day 1: A song you with a colour in the title. - This is an easy one for me, the first song choice is Prince - Purple Rain. Prince was the first artist I fell in love with once i’d seen him live. I was privileged enough to see Prince back in 2007, as a long blonde haired, skinny 19 year old. I had been to gigs or concerts before but only to go out with friends really. Before going I wouldn’t say I was a huge fan of Prince, or music in general really. This gig changed everything, I was blown away by this 5″5 purple God performing on stage. His version on Purple Rain that day will stay with me forever. Breathtaking.

Day 2: A song you like with a number in the title. - One of my favourite songs, by another of my favourite artists. Arctic Monkeys - 505. There is a few different layers to this song, which I really like, the slow build up, telling of a love story. Leading into the rockier 2nd half of the song. Terrifically written, never a song that gets skipped when it pops up on shuffle. Excellent to hear live too.

Day 3: A song that reminds you of summertime. - Little bit of an obvious summer choice, this one but it’s Cliff Richard - Summer Holiday. One of many fond memories I have of my childhood, is whenever we would go on a family holiday, usually to a Haven park, or similar. As we got nearer to the destination my Dad would put this song on for our yearly family holiday sing-a-long.

Day 4: A song that reminds you of someone you’d rather forget. - I could have used this for a song that makes me sad but I’ve got something else in mind for that. My choice for this song is Akon - Lonely. My mum and dad separated in 2005, hardest time on my life. This is the song I was listening to when I found out. This song is not about wanting to forget either of my parents, I love them both dearly. The person that was the reason behind their separation, that is the only person I’d ever want to forget.

Day 5: A song that needs to be played loud. - Guns n’ Roses - Sweet Child O’ Mine. This song used to be a bit of a party song for me, all too often the air guitar would come out and I would be rocking away on the sofa at my Dad’s sometimes with Verity drumming in the background using a knife and fork. This song has to be played loud. It’s a little out dated and in a way, a bit cheesy but I’m sure when Axl Rose was writing this the intention was for it to be played loud. Always.

Day 6: A song that makes you want to dance. - Easy one this one, and will not come as a surprise to many. Taylor Swift - Shake It Off I have spent many-a-night, slightly intoxicated in the wonderful Boomers in Hamble, dancing in my very camp style, to this song. Everyone has a guilty pleasure and Tay Tay is mine. I love her music, genuinely.

Day 7: A song to drive to. - This is probably the most random one on the list. Del Amitri - Roll To Me, Always reminds me of my best mate, Dan Champion, when we first moved into Hamble, we would play this cheesy nonsense record a lot, typically in the car, very loud, driving to get things for the flat. First time I moved out, reminds me of being in the car to kit out my first ever flat. Very happy times, even if the song is pretty crap.

Day 8: A song about drugs or alcohol. - As you may have noticed I do have a varied music taste, one genre I do love is Country. My choice for this day is Chris Stapleton - Tennessee Whisky. In my opinion, this guy just about has the best voice in the world at the moment. There is a country core to his music but the guitar work and his voice, go across genres. I don’t have anything overly personal that I have to say about this song, it was the first one oh his i heard and think he’s fantastic.

Day 9: A song that makes you happy. - In a word “lots” lots of songs make me happy. This one I’ll dedicate to my old man. Dean Martin - Little ‘Old Wine Drinker Me. I have lost count how many times we have been told off by Barb or Verity because after one or two too many beers we decide that we are The Rat Pack and pop on the Dean Martin CD. Usually a sign of a good night in our house if there is a big pile of CD’s left on the side, well before streaming. This song will always make me smile and immediately make me think of my Dad. My hero.

Day 10: A song that makes you sad. - I am quite lucky in a way that in my life I have not lost that many loved ones, I lost my Grandad when I was four so unfortunately have very few memories of him. The next person that I lost was my Nana in 2012, the final song at her funeral was Nat King Cole - Smile. A beautiful song, that will always make me well up. My Nana was incredible for my Sister and I growing up, always showing us love, affection and often giving us a lot of food our Mum wouldn’t have approved of. This one is for her.

Day 11: A song that you never get tired of. - There’s a number of songs that can fit into a number of categories. This being one of them. When I started creating this list there were some artists that I knew had to be on here, I am therefore picking, David Bowie - Rock and Roll Suicide. David Bowie is one of my favourites, the man is an absolute genius. The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust is one of the best albums of all time, and its closing track Rock and Roll Suicide is, in my opinion, the best song on the album, maybe Bowie’s best. I could listen to it over and over, the album and the song.

Day 12: A song from your pre-teen years. - I guess in terms of pre-teen, you’re talking 10-12. I’ve gone for a early teenage, pre-adult years song. Usher - Yeah. In my latter years at school, when I first started partying and drinking, this song was the theme tune. Any house party we would go to as 15/16 year olds. This song would be on, all night, on repeat. Definitely mine, and a lot of my friends at the time, first song we had to get drunk to.

Day 13:A song you like from the 70s. - Slightly random one here, I am going for Neil Young - Old Man. I would say I’ve only really listened to Neil Young in the last few years, Barb, unsurprisingly got me into him - more of that to come. I love Harvest, terrific album. This is a great song, but I the thing i love most is the story that accompanies this song. Young famously tells a story about buying a ranch and the condition was that the old farm hand will remain on the property and take care of maintenance. Neil Young and the old man grew to become great friends, up until his passing. They learnt they have very different backgrounds and experiences but ultimately connect very well. In a way, I wish more often people would go back to connecting rather than sitting on phones or social media. I realise the irony that I am in fact posting this from a social media platform whilst using a laptop and ignoring my flatmate!

Day 14: A song you want to be played at your wedding. - I have tried to avoid repeating artists during this, but this could be the only artist that appear twice. When I do get married the song that I share with my future wife will be one that is special to us. This song I have picked is more because of the opening lyrics and love for the band. Courteeners - Take Over The World. “I looked into her eyes and I swore, I’ve never written a cliche before, and I’ll probably never do so, she was beautiful, though. I think it’s time for you and me to take over the world”. That pretty much explains itself there.

Day 15: A song you like that is a cover by another artist. - I have gone for Johnny Cash - Hurt. Originally recorded by Nine Inch Nails in 1995, this is the final song Johnny Cash released before his death. A beautiful song, and Cash’s raspy voice makes it feel even more emotional. Another one that sits in the country category. I have always been fond of Johnny Cash but when one of my favourite actors, Joaquin Phoenix played him in Walk the Line, my love for both went through the roof. There was always going to be a bit of Cash on this list.

Day 16: A song that is a classic favourite. - Similar to David Bowie, I couldn’t do this list without The Beatles, I always say, if someone doesn’t like, or at least appreciate The Beatles, you can’t trust them. My choice is The Beatles - In My Life. My favourite Beatles song, the lyrics are superb, unsurprisingly and it takes you on a lovely little journey.

Day 17: A song that you would duet with someone else. - I do have a Karaoke duet song that I often sing with one of my oldest friends, Matt O’Dwyer, so this is an easy one for me Robbie Williams and Jonathan Wilkes - Me and My Shadow. He’s Jonny, I’m Robbie, we sing this song, often. We will continue singing it until the day we die. Missing every single note, without fail, yet still making our audience laugh. Pretty much sums us up as people too. Silly song, silly people. Can not wait to be stood next to Matt in Three Lions Bar, Magaluf belting this one out in the hopefully, not too distant future.

Day 18: A song from the year you were born. - For a number of years I was under the impression that the number 1 song when I was born was Fairground Attraction - Perfect. As you can now look at the internet for what was the song was number 1 when you were born. Mine was actually, Bros - I owe you nothing. Perfect is a much better song, that why this is my choice.

Day 19: A song that makes you think about life. - Luke Bryan - Drink A Beer. Another country entry here on the list. Whilst a lot of songs are about heart break or getting drunk. This one is about both, in a very different way. Luke Bryan lost both his brother and sister in their early 20s or late teens. This song tells the story of how he found out. The chorus goes “I’m gonna sit right here, on the edge of this pier, and drink a beer” I imagine if, god forbid, any tragedy happens in my life, I’d do something similar. Find a quiet place to myself, and drink a beer to any memories or thoughts I have on what has happened. I also makes you realise that life is short and precious, a cliche I know but it’s true, now more than ever. Tell people you love them. There’s nothing wrong with that.

Day 20: A song that has many meanings to you. - This song was always going to be in this list. Gerry and The Pacemakers - You’ll Never Walk Alone. I love football, this song will always remind me of my club, Liverpool, for obvious reasons. Whether that is when we’re 3-0 in a Champions League final and need a little extra boost from the fans. Or if we are 4-0 up at home to Bournemouth singing this song for the last few minutes. I can listen to this song in any emotion and it fits, happy, sad, angry etc. This song fits. It’s perfect, it’s beautiful, you’re genuinely never alone, in life, I mean, the real thing, life. You’ve got support, you’ve got love, you’ve got everything you need. It is my club’s anthem and I am very proud of that and my club.

Day 21: A song you like with a person’s name in the title. - The song I’ve gone for is a very famous one with a name in the title, Derek & The Dominoes - Layla The main reason I have picked this song is because of that opening guitar riff from Eric Clapton, possibly the best guitarist of all time. I’ve always been a fan of a strong guitar riff and there are very few stronger than this absolute banger from Slow Hands.

Day 22: A song that gets you moving forward. - I have never been one to work out or exercise too often, throughout my life, football has been the one thing that has acted as the exercise for me. For a period of time when I used my Dad’s cross trainer, the one song that would move me forward and give me a boost was Prodigy - Voodoo People(Pendulum remix) The Prodigy are a very different band but very popular amongst so many. This song, gets the adrenaline going for me, the Pendulum remix side kicks in and did help mid-workout for me.

Day 23: A song that you think everyone should listen to. - Elvis Presley - If I Can Dream(Philharmonic Orchestra Version). No reasons. Just listen and enjoy.

Day 24: A song by a band that you wish were still together. - Oh, I wonder what band I will pick for this one? Oasis - Rock and Roll Star. One of my favourite bands, as they are for many people around my age. I believe their best album is Definitely Maybe, it starts with the aggressive, in your face, flat out brilliant, Rock and Roll Star. Oasis are listened to in my flat, certainly weekly, possibly daily. I have been fortunate enough to see both Noel and Liam live in their careers since Oasis but what I would do to see Oasis live, even once.

Day 25: A song you like by an artist no longer living. - I am going for someone who was the first album I ever remember asking my Dad to buy. Michael Jackson - Earth Song. Yes Dad, this means Michael Jackson has died. This might have been one of the first songs I really liked, I certainly remember it being stuck in my head as a child. I could have chosen this for a song that reminds you of your childhood, but I am opting to dedicate that one to someone else. I have always enjoyed the music of Michael Jackson, every talented. There’s a reason he is called the king of pop, and rightly so.

Day 26: A song that makes you want to fall in love. - I am not picking a romantic song here, having never really been in love it would probably be difficult for me to do so. Instead I am opting for a song with a title that would fit this category. The Stone Roses - I Wanna Be Adored. The Stone Roses are my favourite band(thanks to a little help from my step mum). Who doesn’t want someone that adores them? This is the greatest opening to any gig I have ever been to. June 2017, Etihad Stadium, Manchester. Mani’s bass starts, the crowd erupts. I am about to see my favourite band for the first time in my life. They lived up to any expectations I had. I will stand by my thoughts of that day, John Squire is the best guitarist I have ever seen live. Sensational.

Day 27: A song that breaks your heart. - I am even struggling typing this one. I am picking Zac Brown Band - My Old Man. This song is about a young boy’s love of his father, how his father is his hero, a giant, a superhero. Hoping he can grow up to be just like him. He then has a son and is hoping he is the same figure to his son as his father has been to him. In the final verse you learn that Zac Brown’s father has passed away. Always brings a little tear to my eye, I’m not ashamed to say I am a cryer, at times. I have the same feeling towards my Dad, my hero, my giant, my superhero. This song makes me cherish every moment I have with him and every other loved one I have within my family.

Day 28: A song by an artist who’s voice you love. - I could have picked Chris Stapleton here but instead I wanted to get this band in and it just so happened that lead singer Caleb Followill has a ridiculous voice. Kings of Leon - Milk. A slow opening to this song gives Caleb the opportunity to showcase his voice. Having seen them live his voice is even better to hear in person. Slightly country, slightly rocky, very me. This is my favourite KOL song, because of the slow opening with the vocals being key, following onto the rockier middle then a vocal ending.

Day 29: A song you remember from your childhood. - I am doing this one for my Grandad, sadly we lost him 18 months ago so I wanted to dedicate this one to him. Max Bygraves - Gilly Gilly Ossenfeffer Katzenellen Bogen by the Sea. Yes I had to google the spelling. No I don’t have a clue what it means or even what the song is about. I do know that this song was played a lot at my Nana and Grandad’s house when I was little, they had a vinyl record player in the corner of their living room in Basingstoke. I remember my Grandad crawling round with my on his back, or playing rough and tumbles around the lounge, this song being the theme tune to many hours of horse play between the two of us. I was privileged enough to speak at his funeral. I talked about my Grandad’s love of football, the only person who loved it more that I do, I said. I remember the first ever game he gave me to watch on video, well, there was 2 games. The first one was Portsmouth Liverpool at Highbury as my Grandad had gone to it and you can see him on the footage. The second he used to say to me was the best game he’d ever seen. Italy vs Brazil 1982, Paolo Rossi and all that. I have watched that game back recently, and whilst it’s a lot slower to the current game. He wasn’t wrong with the quality on show, Zico, Socrates, Falcao and the star of the show a hat-trick from the Italian centre forward Paolo Rossi. Maybe my Grandad showing me that game at an early age is where it all began. If so, that’s just one of a number of things I am thankful to my Grandad for.

Day 30: A song that reminds you of yourself. - Easiest of the f**king lot. Courteeners - Not Nineteen Forever. No other song could sum me up better. This talks of partying too hard, being a fool, enjoying yourself a little too much. Ultimately saying “I know it seems strange, but things they change.” Yes they do, and I am pleased to say I have grown up a lot in the last few years, even if there is still the odd foolish decision. This song is everything I am, loud, enjoyable and an indie banger. Often makes me think of being in my favourite place, the middle of a field or arena, stood next to my sister, singing this at the top of our lungs. Well, not just us singing it like that but “Every single one of yas”

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thebowerypresents · 4 years

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Drive-By Truckers Leave Them Wanting More at Webster Hall on Friday

Drive-By Truckers – Webster Hall – February 21, 2020

For those paying attention, Drive-By Truckers have been shining a light on the deep wounds of America for more than 20 years. Led by master storytellers—and simpatico songwriting and musical partners—Patterson Hood and Mike Cooley, the band has an unimpeachable catalog of rough-edged heartland rock that owes just as much to Crazy Horse and the Replacements as it does to Lynryd Skynyrd. While the Truckers have made a stir with their casual Southern fans by calling out the hypocrisies of the Republican party and their inaction with the rising rate of senseless school shootings and race bating on their last album, 2016’s American Band, the five-piece doubled down on their art-depicts-our-shit-show-of-American-life muse with their newest album, The Unraveling. With such politically charged tracks as “Thoughts and Prayers” and “21st Century USA,” Hood and Cooley aren’t releasing any steam from the pressure valve, and they brought their tour in support of the new LP to a packed Webster Hall on Friday night.

When I interviewed Hood last year while the band was working on the album, he leveled with me regarding how his frustrations with the political direction of our country have started to dig inward resulting in a more personal set of songs than American Band. “It’s probably just coming to terms with this world that we’re in right now,” Hood told me. “It’s maybe not as blatantly political as the last album, but it’s definitely part of it. But a more, kind of personal slant of it, I guess. How do you explain this shit to your kids?” It was bound to hit Hood this way. After all, this is the guy who wrote the songs “Puttin’ People on the Moon” and “The Righteous Path.”

The Truckers dove right into the proceedings with Cooley’s “Made Up English Oceans” before moving on to some of the new album’s darker material with “Rosemary with a Bible and a Gun,” “Slow Ride Argument” and “Heroin Again”—each track direct with its subject matter, and like the best Drive-By Truckers songs, acts as uncomfortable but necessary ice breakers and hard pills to swallow. But while we’re mentioning the band’s need to shake up things lyrically, we should also discuss how hard they rock. No matter your political affiliation, you cannot deny the power of this band’s three-guitar assault of Hood, Cooley and multi-instrumentalist Jay Gonzalez, the surplus of riffs surrounding the messages being conveyed.

While Friday’s performance showcased much of The Unraveling, Drive-By Truckers dug deep with some of their most beloved songs, one of the three best Cooley-penned tunes, “Women Without Whiskey,” an early set highlight, before the one-two punch of Southern Rock Opera’s first two numbers, “Days of Graduation” into a particularly raucous rendition of “Ronnie and Neil.” There were only a few moments of preaching from Hood during the marathon-length show, the songs doing the actual sermonizing, but ahead of “Babies in Cages,” he mentioned that Jeremy Christian, who had stabbed multiple people (one of whom Hood loosely knew) on a train in Portland, Ore., was sentenced earlier in the day, and that although he was happy this horrible person was getting the time he deserved, Hood hoped Christian lived long enough to understand the error of his ways.

After hitting the 20-song mark, the Truckers treated the rapt crowd to a rousing cover of the Ramones’ “The KKK Took My Baby Away,” bassist Matt Patton handling lead vocals. From there on out it was all classics, including the bleak desperation of Hood’s “Lookout Mountain” and Cooley’s other two greatest songs, the love-on-the-wrong-side-of-the-tracks duo of “Marry Me” and “Zip City.” Ditching the idea of an encore, Drive-By Truckers rocketed through the finish line at the end of their two-and-a-half-hour set with the Hood sing-along “Hell No, I Ain’t Happy.” The fire behind the pummeling riffs and Hood’s convictions were palpable, and at one point, Cooley and Gonzalez lifted their guitars in the air to slide their fret boards against each other’s to create a striking mix of distortion and feedback. As the lights came up, there was nothing left unsaid but, as always with the Truckers, plenty left not played. But that’s the trick: Leave ’em wanting more. —Pat King | @MrPatKing

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sinceileftyoublog · 5 years

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Newport Folk Festival: 7/26-7/28

Brandi Carlile and Dolly Parton sing “I Will Always Love You”

BY MICHAEL KINGSBAKER

Another Newport Folk Festival has come and gone, and yes, it still is the greatest music festival in the world, and it is still my favorite weekend of the year. This year, for the first time in its 60-year history, the festival had an all female-led Saturday night headliner, arguably had its two biggest appearances to date, covered an entire masterpiece album, premiered the biggest female country supergroup ever, and finally found the heir apparent to Pete Seeger on what would be his 100th birth year.

After Pete Seeger passed away in 2014, a gaping hole was left at the Newport Folk Festival. Seeger had been around the festival since its inception, and while festival producer Jay Sweet has captained the ship incredibly since taking over in 2008, the question has remained: Who would hold the seat that Seeger did for years? The musical ambassador of the people and of the music of the Newport Folk Festival? That question was answered loud and clear this year, as Brandi Carlile cemented her rightful seat. Last year was a precursor, when she performed from her Grammy Award-winning album By the Way, I Forgive You and guest performed with Mumford and Sons and during the Change is Gonna Come set. This year, she got handed the keys to the car and packed a Saturday night headlining slot full of talent from the past and present, culminating in a 5-song set from none other than Dolly Parton. Now, Jay Sweet has pulled some pretty big acts during his 12 years on the festival, but he didn’t pull Dolly--Brandi did! She also premiered her new country super group The Highwomen, an all-female answer to The Highwaymen. The former’s reworking of the latter’s namesake song absolutely took my breath away (and was just released), and then Carlile closed out her weekend singing Pete Seeger's classic song "If I Had a Hammer" with Alynda Segarra from Hurray For The Riff Raff.

Overall, this year’s festival was fiercely female, showcasing talents from multiple generations from Parton and Judy Collins, Sheryl Crow, and Linda Perry to Carlile, Rhiannon Giddens, Maggie Rogers, and Yola. The collaboration sets, which really gained steam with the Dylan 65' Revisited set 3 years ago, continued this year and actually tripled, with the Saturday night All-Female Collaboration, along with a last minute addition of a complete cover of Graham Nash's "Song for Beginners" led by Kyle Craft with an all-star cast of Newport favorites. Finally, on Sunday, Pete Seeger was celebrated with set entitled "If I Had a Song" where audiences were given song books with which to sing along. It opened with Jim James singing “The Rainbow Connection” with perhaps the second biggest star to ever appear at the Newport Folk Festival in Kermit the Frog. I was also pleased to see that Our Native Daughters were asked to participate in the Seeger Celebration, singing the Seeger tune "If You Miss Me at The Back of The Bus" and joining Mavis Staples and Hozier for "Keep Your Eyes on The Prize". Two years ago, for the SPEAK OUT set at Newport (intended to be a platform for artists to speak out about issues of our times), I was critical of the set’s lack of diversity. I noted that both Rhiannon Giddens and Alynda Segarra gave the most topical and stirring performances of that festival but were absent at that finale. Well, this year, they both hit the stage and had their voices heard with songs of protest to make up for lost time.

It's good to know this incredible festival is in good hands and has its ears open. I'm already looking forward to next July. Until then, here's a few photos to pass the time.

Newport is always a place to make discoveries. Saturday morning, the audience was woken up to the raucous duo of Illiterate Light.

Liz Cooper & The Stampede bent over backwards (literally) to electrify the audience at the Quad on Friday with their psychedelic soundscape.

Recent Tony Award winner Anais Mitchell and The Milk Carton Kids at The Harbor Stage, singing Graham Nash's "Simple Man" as part of the Songs for Beginners set.

After a last minute dropout from Noname due to illness, Festival producer Jay Sweet was left with a hole at the Harbor Stage on Saturday. After tweeting about the brilliance of Graham Nash's album Songs for Beginners and the responses it garnered, an idea sparked. A supergroup of Newport faithful led by Kyle Craft, including Hiss Golden Messenger, Lake Street Dive, Amy Ray, The Tallest Man on Earth, and more played the album from start to end. I think we may have just started a new Newport tradition--might I suggest Neil Young's Harvest next year?

Lukas Nelson and The Promise of The Real rocked the Quad Stage on Friday, closing the set with a rendition of Neil Young's "Rockin’ in the Free World" but slowed things down with reminders to Turn Off the News (Build a Garden), and song about an ex named Georgia that made performing with his father singing "Georgia On My Mind" every night a little tricky.

British singer-songwriter Yola was everywhere at the Newport Folk Festival, performing her own set at the Harbor stage as well as at the Quad with both The Highwomen and Dawes. Here, she takes the stage at the Fort during The Collaboration with the First Ladies of Bluegrass covering The Eurythmics’ "Sisters Are Doin’ It For Themselves".

After appearing last year as a guest to Mumford & Sons and others, this year, Maggie Rogers got the Fort stage all to herself to dance in and out of her sound equipment and share her debut album Heard It in a Past Life with Newport.

Every year, there's an act that brings Quad to its feet and doesn't let them sit back down. This year, Jupiter & Okwess invited everyone to fill in the fire lanes, and a 45-minute dance party ensued, capping off with a collaboration with the Preservation Hall Jazz Band.

Phosporescent returned to the Quad stage with hypnotic grooves and chill vibes, keeping all the heads bobbing inside the old fort.

I'm With Her returned, bringing their sweet blend of harmonies bridging old-time music to the present, including covers of The Vampire Weekend and Joni Mitchell.

This year was all about the women, and the fellas came to support. Jason Isbell, who generally headlines festivals like these, wasn't even given a microphone. Here, Amanda Shires (who happens to be his wife) allows him to share a few thoughts as they introduced a song they co-wrote, "If She Ever Leaves Me", dubbed the first gay country song, which was sung moments later by Brandi Carlile.

Each year, the festival producer comes out to the early birds waiting for the gates to open to welcome them back and remind them to BE PRESENT, BE KIND, BE OPEN, and BE TOGETHER. There isn't a place in the world that's easier to do those four things.

It's always fun to see what surprise guests will show up to the festival that aren't officially listed. This year’s guests included Jim James, Kermit The Frog, Dolly Parton, James Taylor...you know that this list might end up being bigger than the actual lineup. Here's surprise guest Tallest Man on Earth, who joined both the Songs for Beginners set as well as The Cooks in the Kitchen.

Hozier returned for his 3rd appearance, singing a duet with Mavis Staples for their song "Nina Cried Power". He also gave over the stage to Brandi Carlile during his set for her to sing her hit “The Joke”. Here, he joins with Lake Street Dive for a cover of Sly & The Family Stone’s "Everyday People".

Jade Bird had her own solo set at The Fort stage but joined in on The Collaboration, seen here singing "What's Up" with Linda Perry and Brandi Carlile.

Phil Cook has become a regular staple at the festival. His love and respect for the musicians and the music played at the festival has endeared himself to both fans and musicians alike. For his set, Cooks in the Kitchen, Phil, who always seems up for a collaboration, was joined by his brother Brad as well as Tallest Man on The Earth’s Kristian Matsson, Amy Ray of The Indigo Girls, and Anais Mitchell.

Molly Tuttle, who had her own set with guitarist Billy Strings, joined The First Ladies of Bluegrass, Courtney Marie Andrews, and others for a cover of “Big Yellow Taxi” at the Collaboration Set Saturday.

Just a man, his guitar, and a huge open stage. Jeff Tweedy charmed the audience at the Fort on Saturday claiming he wanted to "hug you with his sad shit."

Rhiannon Giddens returned to the Newport Folk Festival with the most powerful and gut-wrenching set of the festival, joined by Amythyst Kiah, Leyla McCalla, and Allison Russell to form the group Our Native Daughters, singing songs addressing American historical issues that have influenced the identity of black women. This marked only their 6th live performance, performing in Connecticut a week earlier for the first time. Emotions were overflowing both on stage and in the audience, as each artist (each of whom played multiple instruments) took turns singing songs of sorrow, hope, anger, and joy. It was an experience like no other at the festival.

Linda Perry leading a sing along of "What's Up" at The Collaboration, asking the audience to sing so high, "I wanna touch the fucking stars!" Later, she was on Facebook Live for the introduction of Dolly Parton.

There was a bit of a 90's renaissance at this year’s festival with appearances from Amy Ray, Linda Perry, and former Sleater-Kinney drummer Janet Weiss. Sheryl Crow, who had her own set at the Fort on Friday and later joined The Highwomen that day at the Quad, got in on the fun at The Collaboration on Saturday, performing "If It Makes You Happy" with Maren Morris and "Strong Enough" with Maggie Rogers and Yola.

Newport always does a great job of honoring those who led the way. This year, we saw Judy Collins hit many stages and share stories about a young Bob Dylan writing “Mr. Tambourine Man” on her porch, as well as recalling Stephen Stills singing her "Suite: Judy Blue Eyes", to which she replied "It's a good song, but it won't get me back." Here, she shares the story of a friend discovering Joni Mitchell and bringing her "Both Sides Now", which was sung moments later with Brandi Carlile.

Couples take in the If I Had A Song set at sunset on Sunday, which included a duet from Kermit the Frog and Jim James as well as a serenade to Judy Collins from Robin Pecknold (Fleet Foxes), Eric D. Johnson (Fruit Bats), and James Mercer (The Shins), singing “Suite: Judy Blue Eyes”.

Newport Folk Festival marked the inaugural performance of The Highwomen. Brandi Carlile, Maren Morris, Amanda Shires, and Natalie Hemby, here joined by Yola, opened their set to a powerful reworking of “The Highwaymen”, made famous by Willie Nelson, Kris Kristofferson, Waylon Jennings, and Johnny Cash. The Highwomen’s version, written by Carlile, Shires, and Jimmy Webb (the original songwriter) honors the stories of courageous female revolutionaries and includes an additional 5th verse:

"We are The Highwomen / Singing stories still untold / We carry the sons, you can only hold / We are the daughters of the silent generations / You sent our hearts to die alone in foreign nations / It may return to us as tiny drops of rain / But we will still remain.”

A stage full of Newport Folk ladies, including Brandi Carlile, Rachael Price, Maggie Rogers, and Sheryl Crow, bow down to the one and only Dolly Parton. I've seen Roger Waters, Jack White, My Morning Jacket, Jackson Browne, Beck, Levon Helm, and Mumford & Sons headline the Festival. This was the biggest of all the Saturday night headliners.

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midnightiscoming-kasabian · 5 years

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Kasabian's Serge Pizzorno: 'Being pretentious is my number one fear'

Tim Jonze - www.theguardian.com - Photo: Neil Bedford

2 Sep 2019

He’s the lairy lad rocker who scored one of the best ever goals on TV – in winklepickers. Now he is aiming to be music’s answer to David Lynch

Serge Pizzorno is looking back at the rise of his band Kasabian and trying to pinpoint when it all became a bit too much.

“You’d turn up at shows and there’d be 20-odd trucks there, a catering team, loads of people everywhere,” he says. “And you’d think, wow, this is actually a job for a lot of people, and it all rests on these four maniacs!”

This was in 2017: the band had just completed their sixth album, For Crying Out Loud, released to mixed reviews, and all was not well in camp. After 20 years together, Pizzorno was worried the band were getting stuck in a rut. And then there was the personal turmoil: not for songwriter Pizzorno, who had settled into family life in Leicester (he has two boys, Ennio and Lucio), but for Tom Meighan, the band’s wild-eyed frontman.

Mimicking their idols Noel and Liam Gallagher, Pizzorno wrote the songs while Meighan brought the stage presence, preposterous quotes (“Our songs sound like we’ve shit ourselves 10,000 feet in the air”) and ludicrous tales. Band legend had it that, whenever Meighan became too much to handle, the other members had to take him to the nearest Toys R Us store to calm him down. But following a split from his partner, the relentlessly upbeat singer was struggling. He cried in one interview at the time.

“Tom’s still figuring things out, but he’s in a much better place now,” says Pizzorno when we meet for coffee in London. But it’s no wonder they needed time out. “I was worried we would get stale. Sometimes you need to go down the rabbit hole to refresh things.”

The SLP is that rabbit hole. It’s his initials – his full name is Sergio Lorenzo Pizzorno – and the name of his forthcoming solo album, recorded at his home studio, the Sergery (yes, really). With its guest appearances from Little Simz and Slowthai, and wild eclecticism, it’s reminiscent of Gorillaz – a cartoonish world constructed as an escape from the pressures of being in an enormous band.

Pizzorno sees it less as a new direction and more a return to the way he started off making music. Back then he was using an old Atari and a Midi keyboard; these days he’s been recording on his phone, stealing snippets from 70s Italian horror movies, “weird Polish shit”, and whatever grabs his attention when he’s out and about.

“I’ll be in Tokyo, hear the buzz of the electricity running through the pylons, and be like...” he waves his phone in the air, as if frantically trying to record the sound. “All my mates will be taking the piss. And even in my own head I’m thinking, ‘I’m never gonna use this.’ But this time I did.”

Indeed, the buzzing pylons make it into The Wu, an incredibly odd song about wandering through hotel corridors in search of the afterparty. It’s a case study in Pizzorno’s esoteric influences, from the South African disco label Heads and Lee “Scratch” Perry to the late Nigerian synth wizard William Onyeabor. Elsewhere there’s Mediterranean house (Nobody Else), mariachi meltdowns (Meanwhile … in the Welcome Break) and, in ((trance)), the kind of joyously anthemic track that wouldn’t sound out of place in, well, a Kasabian set.

Did the rest of the band not think: can’t we have a couple of these tunes? “It’s probably testament to why we’re still together that they didn’t mind,” says Pizzorno. “Tom understands that you need to explore what else is out there. Otherwise you become the band everyone expects you to be.”

The irony is that Kasabian have never been the band a lot of people think they are anyway. When they emerged in the early 00s, with electro-influenced rock anthems such as Clubfoot and LSF, they were stereotyped as lairy lad rockers, when in reality they were just as enamoured by hip-hop and acid house.

“On our first record I would wanna sit people down and go, ‘No, no, no – this is where we were fishing for that stuff, Can and Neu! or whoever. But whatever we said, the journalist would just ask us about the Happy Mondays. I soon realised it was best to just keep your mouth shut, because if you’re still able to make albums and art, who cares where it comes from anyway?”

I interviewed the band a few times back then and always found them far kinder and more erudite than they were portrayed (“On the road carnage with rock’s rowdiest band!” screamed one NME cover line). But it’s fair to say, with their wild tales and boasts, they played up to it.

Was the lad thing a bit of an act? “We knew that journalists wanted it,” says Pizzorno. “But at the same time, we did grow up where, if you wanted to be in a band, you had to have your wits about you. If you’re playing in a village pub in Leicester in front of a load of lads that would throw darts at your head for having long hair, you can either go in and be all art school, or you can snap a snooker cue in half and say, ‘Let’s go!’ But then I still wanted to get them in the corner and talk about Jodorowsky afterwards.”

Pizzorno’s lad-rock credentials were no doubt enhanced by two televisual moments: a goal on Soccer AM, in which he improbably flicked the ball up in the air while wearing winklepickers before volleying it into a tiny hoop; and an even better strike during the Soccer Aid charity match that saw him scoop the ball over former England keeper David Seaman’s head and into the top corner of the net. The mention of these acts of sporting glory makes Pizzorno groan: “You’ll work for ages on a piece of music or art that you’re really proud of. But kick a ball through a hole in an inflatable bouncy castle and it’s what you become known for.”

Come on though, which was his favourite goal? “With the Soccer AM one I’d been up all night, I was hanging. If I was sober I’d never have even tried it. But the [Soccer Aid] one … not only is it a great goal, but for five minutes after scoring it, I’ve never been more off my nut in my life. As a pure sledgehammer hit of adrenaline, it was insane. God knows what it would be like to score in a World Cup.”

Less impressive when it comes to lad stereotypes was a cover of Q magazine, on which Meighan and Pizzorno appeared alongside two naked ladies, something that even back in 2011 looked like a relic of a bygone era. Pizzorno groans again, but this time he means it. “That really kills me,” he says. “It was sold to us as Jimi Hendrix, Electric Ladyland, a celebration of 60s psychedelia. But we learned an important lesson there – we need to take control over every element.”

Pizzorno says the band have always been more inclusive than people give them credit for. “Art can be the start of something. At [Kasabian’s] gigs you only have to look at the first few rows to see there’s people from all over the world, with completely different views on how things should be done, but at least we’ve got them together.”

There’s a song on The SLP that addresses this, the final track Meanwhile … in the Silent Nowhere. “It’s about communication,” says Pizzorno. “Previously, even if you were rightwing or had extreme views, it felt like there could be some sort of dialogue where you could at least hear each other’s stories. Now it feels like, ‘This is my belief, fuck you’ ... there’s a danger in us not sitting down and talking face to face.”

What does he think of the current political situation? “It’s like Vegas. Fundamentally, the system is rigged and whatever you implement, the outcome will be the same. You’re probably talking revolution here but we need someone to come along and start again.” Is Jeremy Corbyn that person? “He’s the best shot we’ve got ... but I think there’s more. There’s someone else out there that can marry spirituality [with politics] and break the system and get us to start again somewhere better.” He laughs: “I think I’m just waiting for the messiah.”

Right now, Pizzorno has more pressing problems than the overthrow of capitalism: how to be a musician without Meighan by his side. He’s planned an impressive stage show, with different characters performing each song. It sounds ambitious. “But in a really minimal way,” he stresses. “Not overblown, the opposite to lasers and screens. It won’t be pretentious. Pretentious is my number one fear.”

Will there be costume changes? “Very subtle ones. There might be a hat. I might be barefoot. Fundamentally, I want it to be like a David Lynch thing, where people feel on edge, as if they’ve entered another world for 50 minutes.”

Pizzorno says he knows he can never compete with Kasabian’s enormous gigs – those gigantic, truck-bearing affairs with catering teams and staff everywhere. “But the aim is to get to that same euphoric point,” he says, “just in a whole new way.”

The SLP is out now. The tour starts on 5 September at Glasgow SWG3.

#kasabian #sergio pizzorno #the s.l.p.#interviews #interviews 2019

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