Following the success of “Movies with Mitch” and “Sports with the Lads”, here is your opportunity to interact with others on a musical front.
Whether or not anhedonia has robbed you of your love of music, is there any particular song or performer you would like to discuss?
Some tune that helps you through the dark days of your affliction? Perhaps a song that takes your mind back to better days? Or, inspires you to fight the battle ahead?
Take us on your musical journey…
I’ll start the conversation with a song I have listened to, and enjoyed, through good times and bad:
"Feel Like Going Home" by the Walkabouts.
Originally written by country star Charlie Rich in the '70s, it has also been covered by The Notting Hillbillies with great guitar work by Mark Knopfler. But, this rendition by the Walkabouts is #1 for me!
The lyrics tell of one who is bone tired from life’s battles, and is ready for that final journey home. Sample lyrics:
Lord, I feel like going home
I’ve tried and I failed,
And I’m tired and weary
Everything I’ve done is wrong
Lord, I feel like going home
Lord, I tried to see it through
But it was too much for me
Now I’m coming home to you
Yes, I feel like going home…
I hope you will give this tune a listen, share your opinion. Also, share a song important to you!
Wow, this is an absolutely beautiful song which I first became aware of many years ago when it was covered by Trisha Yearwood and Bonnie Raitt on a British music show called Later…with Jools Holland. I couldn’t find it on Youtube but courtesy of a Google search found it on Vimeo:
Thanks for reminding me of this song and for the link.
@Scotsman.
Thanks for that link! I too loved the ladies’ version on YouTube until it was pulled. Now I can enjoy it again!
I could never pick a favorite song as I listen to too many genres, but here’s a few songs I enjoy for different reasons 
Always liked that Rainbow song, too bad he died so young!
Video for Little Talks was inventive, first time hearing from most of these groups.
Thanks for taking time to share!
A song I’ve listened to for decades, “Ballad of the Sad Young Men” by Roberta Flack.
This seems appropriate for the members of this group. Sample of the lyrics:
"…Sing a song of sad young men, glasses full of rye
All the news is bad again, kiss your dreams goodbye…
All the sad young men, singing in the cold
Trying to forget, that they’re growing old…"
For most of the last two years, part of my anhedonia has affected my joy from music. Music was dead to me.
I did not play any CD or turn on a radio during that time. My wife bought me a new CD player two birthdays ago, which still sits in its unopened box.
But…a month ago I played a song on YouTube that used to be among my favorites. And, I enjoyed it again! (The tune I started this thread with…)
In the last month I have been listening to music again. I have guarded hope that this is a small step into recovery.
Any others in this situation? Jim
Perhaps music anhedonia affects more of us than I thought?
Here is another song for your consideration, “Mad World.” I enjoy this video by Gary Jules.
Sample lyrics:
@eveningwatcher
Fantastic! A fellow Crimson fan!
So many great albums over 50 years…Starless, Lark’s Tongue, Lizard, Red… they have a FB page worth visiting, too. Still touring the world!
“…King Crimson is cited as the first prog band of all time largely because of how eruptively different their debut In the Court of the Crimson King was to other records at the time… (utilizing) long-form suite-composed songs, complex time signatures, orchestral and jazz structures and virtuosic playing…”
Thanks, Jim
@Daytona
Led Zeppelin, what a history making group! I always loved “Since I’ve been Loving You.” Enjoy…
Egoism dictates human relations
A world where fashion outshines morality
Is written in blood red colors
Designed by the thirst for power
Gather the faithful and propose a toast
To the epoch of indifference
Gather the faithful
Gather the faithful and propose a toast
To the epoch of indifference
@Wintermoon
That’s a new one for me! Have you experienced Opeth or Jinjer?
How is it that metal groups have such foxy lady singers?
A local musician and friend has a YouTube channel you might like:
Yes, both are great bands, I’ve been quite the hyperconsumer of metal in general, especially in the past, and seen a lot of live shows. It’d probably be difficult to find a band that I haven’t heard the name of at the very least. 
Probably black magic! 
That’s very cool. Always nice to see people put the work in. Wish I would do more with music myself but I just don’t have the time.
Not my favorite song but I used to like the positivity of Tubthumping and while I waited two years for a persistent side to clear up I fantasized blasting it triumphantly once it did. But after developing PFS I can’t listen to it anymore…I might struggle to my knees but I doubt I’m getting up again.
I’m trying to keep this conversation going, with hope this music may prove beneficial to someone. Is this a fool’s errand?
I believe that Pink Floyd is the GOAT, with “Shine on you Crazy Diamond” the masterpiece. But today I’ll introduce a tune from their final original album, The Division Bell.
Submitted for your consideration, song “Coming Back to Life.” Sample lyrics:
Where were you when I was burned and broken?
While the days slipped by from my window watching
And where were you when I was hurt and I was helpless?
'Cause the things you say and the things you do surround me
While you were hanging yourself on someone else’s words
Dying to believe in what you heard
I was staring straight into the shining sun
I love talking about music. But I do think music is a very personal experience and it’s usually hard to make others feel the same things we do when hearing or talking about songs.
I can also imagine some people having a hard time enjoying music with PFS if they’re suffering from serious anhedonia.
That said, more people should share their music discoveries and guilty pleasures on here!
If dysfunction is a function,
If dysfunction is a function,
If dysfunction is a function,
then I must be some kind of
genius!
Cracks me up every time. Love the delightfully disturbing album cover as well.
@Wintermoon
There’s a group I’d never heard of! Got a good beat, don’t know if I could dance to it! Ha, thanks buddy. Jim
PS: I agree about the anhedonia effect. For two years I did not enjoy even my most favorite tunes. Recently that changed, and I dream it could be the start of a recovery. Time will tell. Jim
These were actually great picks, especially loved the first three songs.
I’ve been so addicted to heavily distorted guitars and insane drums that I sometimes forget how to get into great music that doesn’t focus on those things haha (which is a shame, because I’m missing out)
I hope so for you too! I think music in general really goes a long way in helping the brain make new neural connections (or something like that). Sometimes I really sit and listen to music and not do anything else, really let it take me over.
I listen to a lot of video game music as well, I’ll probably add some of my faves here too later on.
I am fond of Sonic, Mario, Donkey Kong, Kirby, and the likes video game music. Those are from back when the graphics were cartoon-ish. I dislike the modern graphics because they are too realistic for my preference. I grew up with the cartoon-ish graphics and miss them. I also miss the Super Nintendo, Nintendo 64, Dream-cast, Game-cube, PS2, and the likes. You too?
Yeah I enjoy a broad variety of music, I love EDM in general but appreciate a lot of melodic tracks too, indie folk styles like the Lumineers etc.
There’s so much great music out there new and old to discover.
One of the best music discovery features is on Spotify, if you like a song and hit go to song radio, it’ll list tons of songs similar to the style of the one you like.
Hell yeah the golden age of video games! I still have my Super Nintendo and Gamecube. Those were the days!
I’ve mentioned my high regard for Pink Floyd. Another great tune is “Time.”
While I’m musing about time, here is another song titled “Time” this one by Alan Parsons Project.
How much time do any of us have ahead of us?
For most, a full lifetime of misery and pain with faint hopes of recovery awaits… No one actually dies from PFS itself, so all the tomorrows become a sorrowful distressing existence, a life sentence of self-hatred for taking that poison.
Others refuse to accept that prison and take the only shortcut… and we mourn their decision. Time. A blessing or a curse? Jim
Not many songs have time not only flex like a whore, but then to fall wanking to the floor…
@Scotsman
I’m almost speechless! That Nina Simone song, I’d never have known of it if not for your post. Fuck. I loved it, thank you!
David Bowie’s tune was new also, and a worthy addition to the “Time-line” (see what I did there? Ha)
Thank you, Jim
I’m really pleased that you liked my offerings. I love Nina Simone so I am really glad that you liked it.
I’d be interested if you had any instrumental music which you have written lyrics for and were okay with sharing. I know that it has been done with some pieces of film music, like The Godfather, Cinema Paradiso, and even the British soap opera Eastenders…Anyone Can Fall In Love!
Another song which I can suggest, more recent than the others, is “In my Blood” by Shawn Mendez. Some lyrics:
@Devolution2 I love First Aid Kit, such a great song.
A really high standard of recommendation here. I think this could become essential reading! Good idea @JimWildman 
For the Led Zeppelin fans (or maybe not…), I’ve been reading Bob Spitz’s recent biography, which is a good read. Warning: the author does not hold back on talking about some seriously unpleasant stuff WRT the band’s terrible attitudes to groupies, so you might not walk away thinking they’re the nicest guys.
Thank you for the encouraging words, @Greek. I’ve always expressed myself in music, and I recognize that most of what I’ve offered may be “melancholy.”
@Scotsman
I’ll get song-obsessed at times, and your Nina Simone song has been a daily listen. I imagine her in a dark coffeehouse with only a guitarist beside her.
When my mind slips into the dark places, I go to these lyrics, knowing my wife is here on my side:
Can you suggest the best of her work for me to enjoy? Of course, we all know about “Feeling Good”… Jim
Hi there @JimWildman
I’m really pleased to hear how much you’ve enjoyed that Nina Simone song.
I can find it difficult to place any of her songs as best, but I’ve enjoyed looking through my CDs and narrowing it down to a selection for your listening pleasure. Some of the ones I’ve selected I feel have some pertinence to the situation we sadly find ourselves to be in here, others are just damned fine tunes, including some beautiful torch songs.
So, without further ado, and as you say, we’ll ignore those birds flying high…
I Want A Little Sugar In My Bowl
Nobody Knows You When You’re Down And Out
What Have They Done to My Song, Ma?
And I have to thank you Jim, as thanks to tracking down the above on Youtube I discovered a few I’d never heard before:
Stars - including Nina chastising someone in the audience
Thanks also for giving me an excuse to indulge in some classic Nina. I hope that you enjoy listening to them.
Its not really that positive or uplifting, but this song translates my feelings over all this mess.
I am a Portuguese speaker (and musician), and it’s sang in Portuguese. Anyways take a look, it’s beautiful melodically and harmony (and you will surely relate)
Translation:
My World And Nothing Else
When I got hurt
I saw everything change
Of all the truths
That I knew
Now there are only traces left
Of what I didn’t forget
All that peace
That I used to have
I had everything
But now I’m speechless
I have changed
At midnight, in the mid-light
Thinking
I’d give everything to have a way
Of forgetting
I want to be
In the darkness of my bedroom so badly
At midnight, in the mid-light
Dreaming
I’d give everything to have my world
And nothing else
I’m not really sure
If I’ll ever smile again
Without any traces of bitterness
How to be free?
How to be capable
Of seeing a new day?
I had everything
But now I’m speechless
I have changed
At midnight, in the mid-light
Thinking
I’d give everything to have a way
Of forgetting
I want to be
In the darkness of my bedroom so badly
At midnight, in the mid-light
Dreaming
I’d give everything to have my world
And nothing else
@gomesemog
Yes, the lyrics hit home, don’t they? I looked for an English version to no avail; you’d think that over nearly 50 years someone would have recorded it!
Did PFS affect your appreciation of music at all? I went nearly two years with no desire for music, but recently that passed and I’m immersing myself in all the tunes of my past. Thanks for your song, Jim
Surely did. I have emotional bluntness, it got a little better but definitely still have it. I used to fckn L O V E music and now it’s kinda meh.
Anyways, happy that you can appreciate it again now.
It has been nearly two weeks since my latest selection. Today I return to the great Pink Floyd for their tune, “Lost for Words”…
Sample of lyrics:
@eveningwatcher
One of my top King Crimson joys has been Larks’ Tongues in Aspic, their fifth album.
I especially enjoy the title tune, over 20 minutes of Crimson instrumentals at their best (part 1 and 2.) For your consideration:
Edit: I forgot to add part 2! This section is heavier than the first, and @Devolution2 and @Wintermoon may like it!
No reaction to last week’s selection. Has this discussion already run out of steam? I look forward to your song selections, brothers!
Today I offer the tune “I Guess I Just Feel Like” as performed by John Mayer. He has a great guitar solo in the tail end, and the lyrics hit home. Example:
I guess I just feel like
Good things are gone
And the weight of my worries
Is too much to take on
I think I remember
This dream that I had
This love’s gonna save us
From a world that’s gone mad
I guess I just feel like
What happened to that?
I guess I just feel like
The joke’s getting old
The future is fading
And the past is on hold
But I know that I’m open
And I know that I’m free
And I’ll always let hope in
Wherever I’ll be
And if I go blind I’ll still find my way
I guess I just felt like
Giving up today…
The tyranny of deterioration
It worries me that it’s all just a waste of time
Taking one step forward, two steps back
Still I believe there’s a thread through the thorns
And I believe that somewhere it’s warm
And I believe that it’s ever bright beyond this black
So keep holding on
To hope without assurance
Holding on
To a memory of light
But will the morning come?
For all I know
We’ll never see the sun
But together we’ll fight the long defeat
The suffering that I see all around
It’s enough to keep me crashing down till I
I lie wrecked and reeling from these falls
Still I believe there’s a word in the wire
And I believe there’s a way through the fire
And I believe there’s a joy that blooms beyond these walls
So keep holding on
To hope without assurance
Holding on
To a memory of light
But will the morning come?
For all I know
We’ll never see the sun
But together we’ll fight the long defeat
This describes my experience with PSSD perfectly.
“There was a time when men were kind
When their voices were soft
And their words inviting
There was a time when love was blind
And the world was a song
And the song was exciting
There was a time
Then it all went wrong
I dreamed a dream in times gone by
When hope was high and life worth living
I dreamed, that love would never die
I dreamed that God would be forgiving
Then I was young and unafraid
And dreams were made and used and wasted
There was no ransom to be paid
No song unsung, no wine untasted
But the tigers come at night
With their voices soft as thunder
As they tear your hope apart
As they turn your dream to shame
He slept a summer by my side
He filled my days with endless wonder
He took my childhood in his stride
But he was gone when autumn came
And still I dream he’ll come to me
That we will live the years together
But there are dreams that cannot be
And there are storms we cannot weather
I had a dream my life would be
So different from this hell I’m living
So different now from what it seemed
Now life has killed the dream
I dreamed”
@Gavia
I’d heard that song many times before, but now I see it in a new light!
Seeing the singer stripped bare, debased, humiliated, hopeless…isn’t that what this despicable PFS disease does to us? Thank you for the suggestion, Jim
For my latest contribution I have a song for the soul. Not all readers believe, but for those that do I offer up “Oh, What a Saviour.”
Once I was straying, in sin’s dark valley,
No hope within could I see.
They searched through Heaven and found a Savior,
To save a poor, lost soul like me.
Oh, what a Savior, oh hallelujah!
His heart was broken on calvary
His hands were nail scarred, His side was riven,
He gave His life’s blood for even me.
Death’s chilly water I’ll soon be crossing,
But His hand will lead me safe oe’r.
Then I’ll join the chorus, in that bright city,
And I’ll sing up there forevermore!
Oh, what a Savior, oh hallelujah!
His heart was broken on calvary
His hands were nail scarred, His side was riven,
He gave His life’s blood for even me.
I have two versions I love and must include them both. First is from “The Gatlin Bros.”
A more traditional Christian group comprised of four “Old Friends” next:
I hope you’ll listen and enjoy. Jim
Music to soothe the troubled soul doesn’t elicit much interest here. With that in mind, I offer up one last song.
“Will you Miss Me (When I’m Gone),” performed here by the Walkabouts.
… When death shall close these eye lids
And this heart shall cease to beat
And they lay me down to rest
In some flowery bound retreat
… Will you miss me?
(Miss me when I’m gone)
Will you miss me?
(Miss me when I’m gone)
… Will you miss me?
(Miss me when I’m gone)
Will you miss me when I’m gone?
… Perhaps you’ll plant a flower
On my poor unworthy grave
Come and sit along beside me
When the roses nod and wave
… Will you miss me?
(Miss me when I’m gone)
Will you miss me?
(Miss me when I’m gone)…
I haven’t been listening to music lately, don’t know why but lately i’ve been having music stuck in my head all the time, it’s nausiating and frustrating because I can’t stop it voluntarially (probably a PFS mental effect).
That being said, I feel like I should share this song here, not only it is beautiful in its own right, its name suggests a situation alike to ours, which is an interesting duality to say the least. I’ve yet to figure out how the lyrics are related to to the name of the song though.
Music is ALWAYS stuck in my head dude
Fuckin annoying
Interesting, I knew other user had this, but maybe it’s more common that I though.
I think I should make a thread about it.
Still?
Whatsoever I’ve feared has come to life
And whatsoever I’ve fought off became my life
Just when everyday seemed to greet me with a smile
Sunspots have faded, now I’m doing time
Now I’m doing time
'Cause I fell on black days
I fell on black days
Whomsoever I’ve cured, I’ve sickened now
And whomsoever I’ve cradled, I’ve put you down
I’m a search light soul they say
But I can’t see it in the night
I’m only faking when I get it right
When I get it right
'Cause I fell on black days
I fell on black days
How would I know
That this could be my fate?
How would I know
That this could be my fate? Yeah
Ooh-ooh-ooh-ooh
Ooh-ooh-ooh-ooh
Ooh-ooh-ooh-ooh
So what you wanted to see good
Has made you blind
And what you wanted to be yours
Has made it mine
So don’t you lock up something
That you wanted to see fly
Hands are for shaking
No, not tying, no, not tying
I sure don’t mind a change
I sure don’t mind a change
Yeah, I sure don’t mind, sure don’t mind a change
I sure don’t mind a change
'Cause I fell on black days
I fell on black days
How would I know
That this could be my fate?
How would I know
That this could be my fate?
How would I know
That this could be my fate?
How would I know
That this could be my fate?
I sure don’t mind a change
Your body may be gone, I’m gonna carry you in
In my head, in my heart, in my soul
And maybe we’ll get lucky and we’ll both live again
Well, I don’t know, I don’t know, I don’t know, don’t think so
Well, that is that and this is this
You tell me what you want and I’ll tell you what you get
You get away from me, you get away from me
Collected my belongings and I left the jail
Well, thanks for the time, I needed to think a spell
I had to think awhile, I had to think awhile
The ocean breathes salty, won’t you carry it in?
In your head, in your mouth, in your soul
And maybe we’ll get lucky and we’ll both grow old
Well, I don’t know, I don’t know, I don’t know, I hope so
Well, that is that and this is this
You tell me what you want and I’ll tell you what you get
You get away from me (you get away from me)
You get away from me
Collected my belongings and I left the jail
Well, thanks for the time, I needed to think a spell
I had to think awhile (I had to think awhile)
I had to think awhile
Well, that is that and this is this
Will you tell me what you saw and I’ll tell you what you missed
When the ocean met the sky (you missed)
You missed when time and life shook hands and said goodbye (you missed)
When the earth folded in on itself (you missed)
And said "good luck, for your sake I hope heaven and hell
(You missed, you missed) are really there
But I wouldn’t hold my breath" (you missed, you missed)
You wasted life, why wouldn’t you waste death? (You missed, you missed)
You wasted life, why wouldn’t you waste death?
The ocean breathes salty, won’t you carry it in?
In your head, in your mouth, in your soul
The more we move ahead the more we’re stuck in rewind
Well, I don’t mind I don’t mind
How the hell could I mind? Huh
Well, that is that and this is this
You tell me what you want and I’ll tell you what you get
You get away from me (you get away from me), you get away from me
Well, that is that and this is this
Will you tell me what you saw and I’ll tell you what you missed
When the ocean met the sky (you missed, you missed)
You wasted life, why wouldn’t you waste the afterlife?
Im a big Modest Mouse fan and can relate to a lot of their songs.
Joni Mitchell appeared at the Newport Folk Festival this year. She suffered a brain aneurysm several years back and had to relearn a lot, so it’s both surprising and moving to see her back.
Both Sides Now
Rows and flows of angel hair
And ice cream castles in the air
And feather canyons everywhere
Looked at clouds that way
But now they only block the sun
They rain and they snow on everyone
So many things I would have done
But clouds got in my way
I’ve looked at clouds from both sides now
From up and down and still somehow
It’s cloud illusions I recall
I really don’t know clouds at all
Moons and Junes and Ferris wheels
The dizzy dancing way that you feel
As every fairy tale comes real
I’ve looked at love that way
But now it’s just another show
And you leave 'em laughing when you go
And if you care, don’t let them know
Don’t give yourself away
I’ve looked at love from both sides now
From give and take and still somehow
It’s love’s illusions that I recall
I really don’t know love
Really don’t know love at all
Tears and fears and feeling proud
To say, “I love you” right out loud
Dreams and schemes and circus crowds
I’ve looked at life that way
Oh, but now old friends they’re acting strange
And they shake their heads and they tell me that I’ve changed
Well something’s lost, but something’s gained
In living every day
I’ve looked at life from both sides now
From win and lose and still somehow
It’s life’s illusions I recall
I really don’t know life at all
It’s life’s illusions that I recall
I really don’t know life
I really don’t know life at all
I’d like to think that Joni’s reemergence is a metaphor for all of us. No matter what has been thrown at us, brand new chapters absolutely can be written.
It has been a while since I have been here.
I have been a Pink Floyd fan for over 50 years. They are really my only remaining rock music vice.
One of the founding members, Roger Waters, took an older song “Comfortably Numb” and put a new twist on it. The tune is lowered a pitch and slowed down, and a female vocal substitutes for the guitar solo near the end.
In the video the visuals are bleak and forecast life in 5, 10 years off in a post-covid (and possibly post Ukraine-induced nuclear WWIII ?) future. Even as the atmosphere is post-apocalyptic, the people are sheeple, married to their phones.
Put on your hearing aid so you can hear it, and pay attention as you watch.
Another for the metal heads. I can really relate to this. What’s strange is that even though the lyrics are very dark, this boosts my mood and gives me a surge of energy hahaha…
Over and over again
I relive the moment
I’m bearing the burden within
Open wounds hidden under my skin
Pain as real as a cut that bleeds
The face I see every time I try to sleep
Staring at me crying
I’m running from the enemy inside
Looking for the life I left behind
These suffocating memories are etched upon my mind
And I can’t escape from the enemy inside
I sever myself from the world
And shut down completely
All alone in my own living hell
Overcome with irrational fear
Under the weight of the world on my chest
I buckle and break as I try to catch my breath
Tell me I’m not dying
I’m running from the enemy inside
Looking for the life I left behind
These suffocating memories are etched upon my mind
And I can’t escape from the enemy inside
I’m a burden and a travesty
I’m a prisoner of regret
Between the flashbacks and the violent dreams
I am hanging on the edge
Disaster lurks around the bend
Paradise came to an end
And no magic pill
Can bring it back again
I’m running from the enemy inside
Looking for the life I left behind
These suffocating memories are etched upon my mind
And I can’t escape from the enemy inside
(Hard to believe it has been a year since my last post here!)
It was May 1975.
A “Jacques Brel” musical had saved Playhouse Square in Cleveland. My girlfriend and I had returned from enjoying the play for a second time.
I asked her to marry me that night, and last month we celebrated our 47th anniversary.
The musical had songs of hope, love, and also despair. One song invades my mind from that night.
“The Desperate Ones.” I think of the young guys here, lives ruined by Big Pharma. This version is not performed by a quartet as in the musical. Instead, the great Nina Simone (thanks @Scotsman ) puts her stamp on the song. Jim
Congratulations on your 47th Anniversary. You must have been a very young Jim when you got married. I didn’t know about the Desperate Ones origin. Thanks for the info. I must check out the original.
I had turned 21 earlier that week, having promised myself I wouldn’t marry before that age. Maturity magically comes at 21, don’t ya know!
My wife said, concerning Nina’s rendition of the Desperate Ones, she could imagine her singing in a smoky coffeehouse, the audience all in their berets, nodding and snapping their fingers in time. She certainly lends a bleakness to the tune that a quartet does not convey.
Have a good day, my friend. Jim
A haunting tune by Enya, take a listen:
Pilgrim, how you journey
On the road you chose
To find out why the winds die
And where the stories go?
All days come from one day
That much you must know
You cannot change what’s over
But only where you go
One way leads to diamonds
One way leads to gold
Another leads you only
To everything you’re told
In your heart you wonder
Which of these is true
The road that leads to nowhere
The road that leads to you
Will you find the answer
In all you say and do?
Will you find the answer
In you?
Each heart is a pilgrim
Each one wants to know
The reason why the winds die
And where the stories go
Pilgrim, in your journey
You may travel far
For, pilgrim, it’s a long way
To find out who you are
Pilgrim, it’s a long way
To find out who you are
Pilgrim, it’s a long way
To find out who you are
I’m loving your wife’s vision of the smoky coffee house with the beret wearing audience all snapping their fingers. Very evocative. I would have loved to have seen Nina perform.
Does anyone like molchat doma the Russian doomers?
I listened to them a lot before crashing actually
Good band
It’s been a while since I’ve posted here. I’m going back now to a simpler time, probably before most of you were born, when the classic oldies played on AM radio.
This one was performed here by Peter, Paul and Mary. Enjoy “Lemon Tree” off the “Blowin in the Wind” album.
Continuing in my mission to introduce classic music from the '60s-70’s to all those here who weren’t born yet…
Imagine your grandpa is calling you to his stereo to play his fave old songs…and humor him.
Harry Nilsson had this hit in 1971, “Lime in the Coconut.” Enjoy!
For a more modern, rock version, listen here:
Love the song and title “lemon tree” as much as the real thing. I imagine the sound quality is much better on a record, DVD, CD, VHS, cassette, or live than Youtube. Live is obviously the best out of the bunch.
I am fond of all things lemony. Lemon-Balm, Lemon-Grass, and Lemon-Verbena. They live up their name. The trio makes a splendid tea, the likes of which would be marvelous to drink while listening to the above referenced “Lemon tree”. I had a lemon tree at a previous house, planted over a septic tank that grew as if it was on steroids, the lemons as large as grapefruits. I have a habit of making everything about plants and herbs, I do.
Anyway, the symbolic nature of the song reminds me of the quote: “Though the lips of the forbidden woman are as sweet as honey, in the end she is as bitter as wormwood.” If you ever taste the intense bitterness of wormwood, you’d never look at bitter the same. It makes kale seem like candy by comparsion.
Have yet to hear the coconut song. I ought to wait to ramble on about coconuts until then. I can get coco-nutty.
As I looked through my past choices here, I see many have a depressive feel. I honestly won’t apologize, because this PFS has had me feeling depressed more often than not. Who among us can deny that mood?
Still, I’ve decided to choose tunes somewhat more upbeat (at least marginally!) hereon out. Witness, the last two songs.
Today, a song that predates most posters by a decade or two. Performed by Norman Greenbaum, a “one hit wonder” in 1969.
Spirit in the Sky had decent instrumentals, and spoke of “going to see the spirit in the sky” upon passing. (BTW, Norman was Jewish but used Jesus to appeal to mass audiences.)
Opening lyics:
When I die and they lay me to rest
Gonna go to the place that’s the best
When I lay me down to die
Goin’ up to the spirit in the sky
Goin’ up to the spirit in the sky (spirit in the sky)
That’s where I’m gonna go when I die (when I die)
When I die and they lay me to rest
I’m gonna go to the place that’s the best…
The following tune was a big hit in the late 80s or early 90s, depending on which side of the big pond was your home.
The Proclaimers are a Scottish rock duo whose biggest hit was "I’m Gonna Be (500 miles.)"
Calling our friend @Scotsman to attention! Jim
Hey there Jim. Thanks for the shout out 
. I feel that I should request to have my username changed as I am probably not the best ambassador for brand Scotland, not being a particular fan of the song when it first came out, probably because my lugs weren’t used to a song that sounded so, well, SCOTTISH!!! As my ears were probably trained on the default American lilt of a song it sounded kind of jarring at the time. A bit like, God, do I really sound like that?!? 
. Still, the passage of time has softened me towards my fellow Scots and I can see that they are indeed very talented fellows.
"Rainy Night in Georgia" from Brook Benton. In the spring of 1970, the song topped the Billboard Best Selling Soul Singles chart. It also reached number four on the Billboard Hot 100, and number two on the Adult Contemporary chart.
Easy on the ears, I’ve always enjoyed this song. What do you think?
Your posts are a musical education Jim. I really like the song, but always associated it with Randy Crawford’s version, completely oblivous of the original. I confess to never having heard of Brook Benton although looking him up he appears to have had quite the career and back catalogue. Keep on sharing Jim. You spread some sunshine to Scotland in February, and no doubt to other destinations on this planet.
Thanks, @Scotsman, for the good words and continued reading.
From the late 60s-early 70s, a group worth a listen is It’s a Beautiful Day. The song they may be most famous for is White Bird.
If you like music with more of an edge, try their Wasted Union Blues.
More musicians that had escaped this particular brain’s consciousness Jim. Until now! I couldn’t help but think of myself as the white bird on that aponymous track, sitting at my laptop and not soaring free.
The songs made me think of the Easy Rider soundtrack which would have been a similar vintage.
Thanks @LazarusRy, that song could be the anti-Valentines anthem!
The singer reminded me of my sister in her band. I’ll find a recording and post it later. Thanks again for joining in! Jim
Here is my baby sister Becky Armstrong performing with the Village Idiots back in the late 80s. (Not 2010 as written on the title.)
Sadly the group played the Cleveland-Akron area but never got that big break! Jim
I liked Claire Grogan as a teen. Proper Scottish music for the @Scotsman
Wow your sister, she’s great canny set of pipes as the Scotsmen would say
Two posts up I featured the Village Idiots. Humor me here as I explain further on the music of the female vocalist, Becky Armstrong.
She grew up in a musical family, was told she had perfect pitch, and within a year of graduation she was singing in a band. The group was The Walking Clampetts led by a great guitarist, Johnny Teagle.
The songs I included below were both recorded in 1983 on cassette! I had the recording digitized and cleaned up as best as possible about a decade ago.
In the mid-80s Becky switched from the Clampetts to the Village Idiots. They performed in northern Ohio but never had that big break. (Trivia: the leader, George Cabaniss, had previously formed a band Color Me Gone, and the singer Marti Jones was his lead female until she went solo.)
Becky still performs in stage musicals locally. More of her music is on YouTube.
Cry Me a River
Fever
One last post on this subject.
The Walking Clampetts billed themselves as a “Rockabilly” band, and gave Excellent musical performances. You deserve to hear their fine music without a vocal, as well. Below is a representative tune, “Pipeline” recorded in 1983.
Pipeline
I continue to attempt educating our young readers on artists who were mostly famous in the 60s-70s. Broaden your horizons, so to speak.
Today we listen to Shawn Phillips . He first recorded in 1964 but his strongest Era was 1969-1980. He is a male vocalist with incredible vocal range. He wrote nearly all his recorded output. He is still recording in his 80’s! Rock impresario Bill Graham described him as “the best kept secret in the music business”.
The following song is emblematic of his style. I suggest the albums “Faces” or “Collaboration” as good starts if you choose to dip your toe into his ocean of tunes. Jim
L Ballade
The song above and this following one are both from his album Faces, released in 1972. I added this song for its evocative lyrics and demonstration of his vocals.
Landscape
A band named White Witch made a splash around 1970 but petered out by 1975 or so. They had 2 albums with a variety of music styles.
White Witch formed in 1971 in Tampa. The band originally featured lead singer Ronald “Ronn” (or “Ron”) Goedert, guitarist Charles “Buddy” Richardson, keyboardist Hardin “Buddy” Pendergrass, drummer Robert “Bobby” Shea and bassist Loyall “Beau” Fisher.
I present two tunes to demonstrate their versatility:
It’s so nice to be Stoned
Moneybags
I’d like some guidance from a mod, maybe @Greek can help.
This conversation is not getting many replies, maybe all the previous posters here have moved on to Reddit.
I appreciate the space to discuss music, but I’m concerned this will be seen as a one-man ego ride. Do administrators have a problem with my continuing this thread?
I have a few appreciative readers (thanks @Scotsman and @Taw), but would like an official thumb up/down on continued posts.
Thank you, Jim
Hey Jim I’ll participate. Not long after I crashed I put together some videos of guitar stuff I recorded and photos I took for posterity. I suppose I’ve presented my PFS self here as much as I’m going to as it is a dead end of a life. But there was a person with a story before that and music was a big part of it.
This is a tune I wrote in college in the late 80s. I was trying to compose something that was all turnarounds without resolution. I actually wrote two songs like that but this was the only one that I recorded as a multitrack. I played the other with a band and maybe I’ll post that later.
The photo is flying a hop from Denver to some ski area, can’t remember which. I took lots of wing out the window pics back then.
Keep on sharing Jim.
Here’s one I like that I think of every now and again and I thought of it today.
You’re probably familiar with Dolly Parton’s Jolene.
But you might not have heard it slowed down. I think I prefer it!
What’s amazing is that slow speed really exposes everything and the track still stands up.
Hope you like it.
Thanks for that tune, @mstone !
Sounds very professional, you should make more if you have time! I’d like to hear more!
Also, I had never heard that 33rpm take on Jolene, @Greek ! Vocals sound like a tenor male and even at that slower speed it all comes together. I also like it better than the faster paced hit. (Wonder how many other songs can be played at ¾ speed and sound better? Recall the two versions of Revolution by the Beatles?) Thanks for allowing me this coping mechanism. Jim
Two posts back , @Greek introduced a slowed version of Jolene.
That had me thinking of other tunes recorded both fast and slow. My favorite country singer was Johnny Cash, and back in 1970 his TV show had a guest performance by Ray Charles.
Ray performs one of Johnny’s hits, Ring of Fire slow, almost bluesy. What a showman Ray was, his legs a swinging. Here’s his slow version of the song:
Ring of fire slow
For comparison, here is Johnny’s version live, 7 years earlier in 1963, and much faster:
Back in 1973 (remember those days, guys?), I came across an album titled Rainbow Rider by “Brothers.” It was their only album, and it was pure luck I came upon it.
The following song is one that may soothe your nerves after a bad day, “Mighty Ocean”
Mighty Ocean
Another good song is the title track, “Rainbow Rider.” What do you think of the Brothers?
Rainbow Rider
Today’s music is in memorium of Eric Carmen. (August 11, 1949 – March 2024) Frontman for the Raspberries group, he was also known for some solo hits, as well.
The song I’ve selected is All by Myself, in the long version including a piano solo which was cut from the radio version.
Interesting fact:
The piano solo borrows from Rachmaninov’s 2nd Concerto, which Carmen thought was public domain. It wasn’t, it was still under copyright, so after the song was released, he got a thick envelope from the Rachmaninov family’s lawyer informing him that he could choose between paying them royalties or defending a lawsuit for copyright infringement.
Happily, his lawyer got together with the Rachmaninov family’s lawyer, and they worked out a royalty deal that allowed him to also use the slow movement from the 2nd Symphony for “Never Fall in Love Again”.
Lyrics (which remind me painfully of my pre-PFS life):
When I was young
I never needed anyone
And making love was just for fun
Those days are gone
Livin’ alone
I think of all the friends I’ve known
When I dial the telephone
Nobody’s home
All by myself
Don’t wanna be
All by myself anymore
Hard to be sure
Sometimes I feel so insecure
And love’s so distant and obscure
Remains the cure
All by myself
Don’t wanna be all by myself anymore
All by myself, I don’t wanna live
Don’t wanna be all by myself anymore
When I was young
I never needed anyone
And making love was just for fun
Those days are gone
All by myself
Don’t wanna be all by myself anymore
Ohh… ohhhh
All by myself, don’t wanna live
Ehh, eh eh… ehhhh
Don’t wanna live by myself, by myself anymore…
All by Myself
I say it is high-time some lyric-less music was introduced, don’t you think? Lyrics get dull when repeated often enough.
From a video game I used to play growing up:
1:20-1:45 The best part!
I kick myself (figuratively) for all the lyrics I made up on the spot only to neglect writing them down and forgetting them, a bad habit I need to break.
Another great song Jim. And yet again I’d not heard of the performer. That was a great version with some lovely piano. A very nice way to remember him by.
@Scotsman I was mildly surprised that you hadn’t heard of Eric Carmen or the Raspberries. I then realized the song was 50+ years old, maybe predating you by a decade or two! Boy, did I feel old!
But, everyone knows the classic movie Dirty Dancing, which features the Carmen hit Hungry Eyes. The song was recorded at Beachwood Studios in Beachwood, Ohio in 1987. “Hungry Eyes” peaked at No. 4 on the Billboard Hot 100.
Remember this?
Hungry Eyes
Well, I have not long turned 51 so it’s probably more my actually on this earth ignorance than you being particularly old as such. And talking of ignorance, I may have only seen Dirty Dancing the once, despite it being beloved by millions, so Hungry Eyes is another blind spot on my own musical odyssey. I nominate you as the head of the forum’s music department, Professor Jim of all the Wildmen.
I humbly accept the nomination and await the vote of the musical masses.
You may not know I have a famous book available, titled “King James Version, Holy Bible!” Jim. 
@Taw et al,
I must admit that as I near the age of 70 that I have never played a video game such as that. My experience has included Space Invaders, Pacman, and the ground breaking video game “Pong.”
That said I would never have guessed that a video game would have music such as that. I wonder if it is original music to the game or if it is old classical music repurposed. Can you answer that? Jim
I would like to know what musical instruments are used to make the sound at 1:20-1:45 referenced in my post above. Not an expert, but I’m sure it is not a guitar, flute, or maraca. Any ideas?
As far as I know, the theme is exclusive to the game. 3DO sold the rights then the new owners went bankrupt, so I cannot inquire to anyone.
Game-play footage of the specific level for those possibly interested:
Back when we had cartoon graphics. I say the realistic graphics of todays video games encourage violence more than the cartoon graphics. I refuse to play the modern games. Pac-Man on the Super Nintendo for the win!
Yes, research shows:
Composed by Barry Blum, Kevin Manthei, Robyn Mendheim, Brian Min and Brian Withycombe
Music © 3DO 2000
All rights to their respective owners
Sounds like horns, but unsure of which. The tail end of this section is organ, leading into that drum beat.
Good instrumentals! Jim
I can discern the organs and (French?) horns, now that you pointed it out at least. I shall echo @Scotsman uncontested endorsement of thee as the musical arts director.
The year is 1974. I am a freshman at college and my girlfriend is a hot 23 year old divorcee. Have I caught your attention yet?
Our favorite hangouts are country/western bars, a huge u-turn for this Pink Floyd/King Crimson fan. I gain a new appreciation for c/w music.
One night, she says we’re over. She’s going back to her ex. I try to convince her she’s headed for disappointment, to no avail.
For the next 6 months, my go to song on the juke box is Joyride, by Jack Greene. I’m convinced the ex is taking her on a Joyride (proven correct when he dumps her a year later.)
(Things worked out well for me in the end, later that year I met my wife of 48 years!)
lyrics
You’re leavin’ and Lord knows I’m grievin’ cause you sure picked the bad train to ride
He’ll drop you like a stone when the joy is all gone from the joyride he’s takin’ you on
That’s not love in his eyes just desire that you can’t satisfy for long
And you’ll hate where you’ve been when you come to the end
Off the joyride he’s takin’ you on
Look around and you’ll may catch ‘em laughin’
At those pictures he’s been painting for you
Yet those storms out of your eyes and look closer cause darling he’s paiting them blue
Lord I wish I could save you the sorrow and the pain that you’ll be goin’ through
But they’ll be on the bill when you’ll pay for the thrill
Off the joyride he’s takin’ on you
Joyride
Time to broaden our horizons a bit! Today’s selection is a Russian group.
Otava Yo (Russian: Отава Ё, ота́ва meaning “aftergrass”) is a Russian folk rock band from Saint Petersburg, formed in 2003. They have an interesting selection of music videos. Try this one out…
Otava Yo
Well, Russian music crashed. Not a comment or a like!
This week, let’s turn to the German scene and “krautrock.” (I wish our friend @Exsexgod was here to give his take on this band!)
Who recalls Kraftwerk, a German electronic band formed in 1970.?
Widely considered innovators and pioneers of electronic music, Kraftwerk were among the first successful acts to popularize the genre.
Their biggest American hit was “Autobahn” from 1973.
Autobahn
Bringing us back to the USA in the 60’s…in a complete change of musical style, let us recall Bobby Goldsboro.
The man’s earliest hit was a 1964 tune “See the Funny Little Clown.” Through the '60s into the '70s, he released dozens of singles, with his only #1 being 1968’s Honey.
The biggest hit of his career, “Honey”, was a tearjerker about the death of a man’s wife. The song, written by Bobby Russell, was recorded in one take. It became the largest-selling record in the world for 1968 and topped the Hot 100 for five weeks!
This stroll down memory lane was prompted when I unearthed an old CD of 22 of his songs. As the CD played, I found I knew the words to nearly every song! But the kicker?
When “Honey” was a hit in '68, I was a 12 year old boy. This story of a man losing his young wife made me cry for his loss.
Now, it is 56 years later. My wife of 48 years has cancer (in remission, thank God) and I fear the day the words of this song hit home:
“One day while I was not at home
While she was there and all alone
The angels came
Now all I have is memories of honey
And I wake up nights and call her name
Now my life’s an empty stage
Where honey lived and honey played
And love grew up…”
Thanks for reading this expression of love. I heard this tune today and cried like that 12 year old boy. Jim
Honey
Never was a fan of foreign language male singers. Female counterparts however,
Tori Amos has a masterpiece with that exact name , “Honey”. It is symbolic for, figure it out. I’ll give the answer if you cannot find it.
Speaking of honey (the stuff bees make) I also consume the pollen, propolis, and royal jelly. Consuming the honey alone equals = missing out.
It sounds to me like a stringed instrument, perhaps a simple guitar. I like the music ok, but personally I prefer to understand what she’s saying!
Honestly I can’t say I cared too much for Tori Amos’ song. Like so much music today the lyrics seem repetitive and the tune not inspired. I guess I’ll play my version of “Honey” instead!
My in-laws have some old beehives that have been ignored for probably 10 years and I’m sure the bees have long gone. Come on up and I’ll give them to you you can make your own honey! Jim
Rich, sayeth the one who posted German & Russian music, unless you understand such. Any elaboration? My thing is that if I understand the lyrics, they get stale sooner. Still prefer lyric-less overall.
Tori is by no means my favorite, but the symbolic nature is a change to the rhyming trends. From another song: “An empty cage girl if you kill the bird” - “bird” is symbolic for soul and “cage” is symbolic for body. By the way, “honey” is symbolic for her cum.
Lucky! I only seem to get wasp hives (nests). I use the nesting material and the larvae to make extracts, the likes of which has a cinnamon sort of taste that blends well with coconut water/milk.
You got me there…but the krautrock was English…and the Russky was just cute!
Takes me back to “White Bird” by It’s a Beautiful Day. Same concept, trapped in a cage, longs to be free, but with the better sounds of the '60s!
Damn, you’ll eat anything, Tom! Ha. Jim
Mike Pinder of the Moody Blues Passes Away
Mike Pinder, original keyboardist for The Moody Blues in both their original mid-1960s configuration as a pop/blues outfit and their better-known late-1960s/early-1970s gentle progressive rock quintet entity, died in his Northern California home on April 25, 2024, from an as-yet unstated cause. Pinder was 82.
Master of the Mellotron. RIP.
Tribute video
Nights in White Satin
DEDICATED TO THE SOULS LOST BECAUSE OF FINASTERIDE POISONING
(Arms of an) Angel
Song by Sarah McLachlan
This tune never fails to bring a tear to my eyes. A song often associated with death, suicide, and grieving. I was prompted to include it here as I thought of the lives lost because of finasteride’s (denied) side effects. So many without hope…
This song was inspired by musicians using heroin. Also played heavily in the US in ads for the ASPCA.
Lyrics
Spend all your time waiting
For that second chance
For a break that would make it okay
There’s always some reason
To feel not good enough
And it’s hard at the end of the day
I need some distraction
Oh a beautiful release
Memories seep from my veins
Let me be empty
Oh and weightless and maybe
I’ll find some peace tonight
In the arms of the angel
Fly away from here
From this dark cold hotel room
And the endlessness that you fear
You are pulled from the wreckage
Of your silent reverie
You’re in the arms of the angel
May you find some comfort here
So tired of the straight line
And everywhere you turn
There’s vultures and thieves at your back
And the storm keeps on twisting
You keep on building the lies
That you make up for all that you lack
It don’t make no difference
Escaping one last time
It’s easier to believe
In this sweet madness
Oh this glorious sadness
That brings me to my knees
In the arms of the angel
Fly away from here
From this dark cold hotel room
And the endlessness that you fear
You are pulled from the wreckage
Of your silent reverie
You’re in the arms of the angel
May you find some comfort here
You’re in the arms of the angel
May you find some comfort here
ANGEL
For the first time, the selections today are repeats. Now bear with me…
I’ve been really down again lately, and listening to past choices. A lady first suggested by @Scotsman touched my essence, a great singer Nina Simone. Give these two tunes a chance if you have not yet done so.
Live like you were dying by Tim McGraw. Extremely uplifting song and everything time I listen to it I am able to relax and embrace my condition thinking to myself that maybe things aren’t all that bad after all.
After your post, I listened to that song for the first time. Very touching and inspirational! My wife has lung cancer, so it hit double hard. Thank you, Jim.
Live like you were Dying
WHAT’S UP??
This tune is from the early 90s, a group called “4 Non-Blondes.”
4 Non Blondes was an American rock band from San Francisco, active from 1989 to 1994. Openly lesbian lead singer Linda Perry often performed with a prominent “dyke” sticker affixed to her guitar, and the group got their start in the San Francisco bar scene, especially lesbian bars, gaining a significant lesbian following.
The song “What’s Up?” was released as the album’s second single in 1993. It was successful in the United States and in several European countries.
For unknown reasons, this song brings tears each time I hear it. Maybe because life has become a constant question of “What’s going on?” living with PFS. Jim
What’s Up?
Thirty years later, country singer Dolly Parton released a version, accompanied on guitar by songwriter Linda Perry. I include it here for musical comparison.
Dolly Parton - What’s Up?
LOST BOY
Lost Boy" is the debut single by Canadian singer Ruth B. It was released on February 12, 2015.
She says it was inspired by the TV show “Once upon a Time,” which included a Peter Pan theme.
Some listeners claim subliminal references to suicide and depression. LOST BOY is a mood many here can claim, as well.
LOST BOY
I am posting the following in this music column, as an explanation of music’s importance to me.
The mods have been kind in allowing me to use this musical conversation as a therapy for my PFS-tortured soul. I thank them, and remind you all that comments and contributions are welcome!
Now my true confession:
My mom was a music teacher. She instilled a love of music in all 4 of her children.
My youngest sister has perfect pitch. Her instrument is her voice, and I have posted her music skills in this column previously. She has performed in public as recently as 2023, and is also involved in theater acting/singing, including most recently a production of Cabaret.
My other sister was in high school band and sings well, but has been the black sheep who never pursued music.
My brother leans to stringed instruments. He plays 6 and 12 string guitar, acoustic and electric, as well as the banjo. Not a singer, though!
Myself? I play piano and organ, I liked the keyed music. I have dabbled in guitar with my brother’s urging, and even have a couple autoharps (think Carter family). I sing in the church choir and also in solo sets, or did pre-PFS.
PFS stole my love of music, for three years I had music anhedonia (my self-diagnosis.) I didn’t touch an instrument and did not turn my stereo on. I didn’t miss music and didn’t care. Slowly, the anhedonia lifted. I heard music again as a thing of beauty, not just noise.
I love music again but as a listener only. I cannot sing because I don’t have the wind to make it through even one verse, and cannot remember words. I can recall parts of verses of songs I’ve known for 60 years, but only bits and pieces. I do not play, my hands don’t cooperate.
That’s my story, why I started the music column. I’m praying for the day I can recall whole songs again, the day my fingers are capable of “tickling the ivories” again. Meanwhile, I’m here in the music room. Join me. @Scotsman @Greek
Jim
I found myself later in my journey listening to this one a lot. Feels like a commentary on how after a life of chronic illness eventually leading to this condition has made me truly realize how badly I need to find a way out of my toxic environment in general and how comfortable isn’t always healthy.
Our friend @Scotsman has introduced me to another winner, a musician I never knew existed!
The Czars were an American alternative rock band, formed by John Grant, the singer of today’s tunes. He has an excellent cover of Where the Boys Are which when sung by a guy, seems like an excellent gay anthem. I really liked it, Your views may differ. Give him a listen.
Where the Boys Are
Another good one originally a hit for Patsy Cline:
I Fall to Pieces
My father died 31 years ago. A song which has always been dear to me, one of his favorites, is September Song as performed by Willie Nelson. I lost a friend this week, and this memorable song came to mind.
This tune is hauntingly sad but beautiful when life nears an end. Yet the memories of happiness and enduring love still linger.
Partial lyrics:
But it’s a long, long while from May to December
And the days grow short when you reach September
And the autumn weather turns the leaves to flame
And I haven’t got time for waiting game
And the wine dwindles down to a precious brew
September, November,
And these few vintage years I’d share with you
Those vintage years I’d share with you…
September Song
In research of this song, I found a 1938 version performed by Walter Huston. This version has enough differences from Willie’s great rendition, that I am including it as well.
This has been a tough week emotionally for me. My dad died 31 years ago last week and that anniversary always lays me low.
Last week, a good friend of mine used suicide to escape the Hell of his bipolar condition. (Not PFS related.) I have beat myself up wondering if I could have been more attentive to him, and if I had would it have changed the outcome?
Today’s song is the one that was playing when my dad died, his favorite song at the time.
Titled Vincent by Don McLean.
Hello friends. Today is September 11, 2024. This is also the 48th anniversary of my marriage. We’ve had ups and downs, like most unions do. But my dear lovely wife has stood by me through 5 years of PFS trials and tribulations.
To mark this date, I offer up this song to my forum friends.
And I Love her So as performed by Don McLean. I hope you will agree this tune is a touching love song. Jim
And I Love her So
Way back in post 84, I revealed my sister as a professional singer, back in the day.
Today I came across a video I had forgotten about, a recording for a local TV show.
I present Becky Sue backed by The Walking Clampetts singing Cry me a River.
Is that All There Is? by Peggy Lee
Thumbing through some old music today and I found this old classic. If you’ve never heard it, spare a few minutes and treat yourself. It may hit home!
Chorus:
“…
Is that all there is
Is that all there is?
If that’s all there is my friends
Then let’s keep dancing
Let’s break out the booze and have a ball
If that’s all there is…”
It’s been a couple months, time to play a song…
Today I offer "Wellerman" in three tempos.
First is a trio of lovely ladies led by Violet Ormandi. All three sing a verse solo and join in the chorus. Give a listen:
Wellerman
Next is a group called The Longest Johns with an all male a Cappella version:
Finally, I had to include this cover by Malinda, who has a great rendition with background vocals by herself, in multi-screen.
Enjoy! Jim
Thanks for sharing these Jim. You’ve swashed my buckle. The Longest Johns edged it for me, to the point whereby I was checking them out online. This particular folk (singular) could maybe do with some folk this 2025. I’ll refrain from saying that I’m going to get folked, but any song that has the line
One day when the tonguing is done
gets my interest 
@Kames
Thanks for the song! My goal has been that others contribute songs that give us all an exposure to the new and different!
I confess I haven’t listened to old Rod since his 70’s heydays, and enjoyed this song enough to investigate its backstory. The tragic end to Grace and Joseph’s short marriage: I would never have known this bit of history without Grace. Thank you, please join in again. This forum doesn’t have to be all sadness and dread. Jim
Sinead had a lovely voice. Died before her time. RIP.
Elvis— Never listened to him previously! The white nigger surprised me, I guess he caught heck over that! Catching a common theme here @ Irish? Song is 45 years old and reference to Muslims in England would probably get him arrested in their current political climate!
Sinead-- what a Voice. An activist from the start, and I was watching the night she ripped the pope’s photo on SNL. The Easter Rising again-- yep, a definite theme in your choices!
Good music! Thanks! Jim
I’ve got a tune for you all, It’s called:Freefall.
The recording here is a female vocalist and I found it more enjoyable than other versions.
The lyrics are interpreted by many to be about depression and suicide. Let it all go. Freefall. Give it a listen if you dare.
I chose a video with lyrics for your aid in following the tune.
It’s called: Freefall
It’s been almost 3 months since I posted a new song. It didn’t seem that it mattered, my last song above had not a single comment or reaction.
My wife passed away two weeks ago and I find myself seeking solace in the music I have enjoyed through the years.
If I posted the songs that I have listened to the most, I would undoubtedly be told by someone to cheer up and quit listening to sad music! (I’ve already heard that from a sibling.)
Today I will introduce you to a pair of country songs that meshed together so well that some inventive YouTuber has joined them.
First is Keith Urban performing Blue ain’t your Color, followed by Chris Stapleton with Tennessee Whiskey. The first song flows into the other so well…enjoy! Jim
It has been a while, as I’ve been drifting in depression since the passing of my wife.
I need to get my mind on something else, so…music!
Let me introduce a band I’m betting you’ve never heard: Portishead. But then, they ARE an English band!
I first heard their music in the late '90s when they performed on Saturday Night Live, and the song was Only You. I was impressed by the lead singer’s voice (Beth Gibbons) and started listening to more of their music.
Only You
That song was on their second album, which also included a song that hit the UK top ten! Here it is:
All Mine
The first album, Dummy received the most attention and accolades. The top song seems to be:
Glory Box
I hope this jump into British “trip hop” music sparks your interest. Let me know if you have a favorite I didn’t include! Jim
Song sounds like it was penned by a PFS or PAS victim!
I wrote it. Check out this new one
Some readers here will know that my wife of 50 years passed away in April.
I’ve been remiss in not posting to this thread, or to the Forum in general, much since that time.
Last night as I was finishing up my evening, the words lonely days and lonely nights came into mind. This morning I found the song.
This tune was penned by the Bee Gees long prior to their disco time. The video I’ve chosen is from late 1970. (One of the first music videos made that I know of.) It shows each of the three BG members alone, and then meeting up.
The significance of this song is that the Bee Gees had broken up as a band for over a year, and this was one of the first songs that they wrote upon their reuniting. (They also wrote the song How Can You Mend a Broken Heart immediately after the group got back together.)
The song speaks to me because after all those years, every day and every night is lonely for me now. I hope you enjoy it. Jim
So sorry to hear about your loss Jim. Sending my condolences. I can’t even imagine how difficult it must be for you
I tried offing myself over this PFS crap a couple years ago, and she’s the one that saved me. And everyday is so hard, she’s not here for moral support anymore. Thank you for your kind thoughts. Jim
