There is nothing more interesting than hearing artists talk about the process of creating or discussing personal influences and inspirations. Every great artist is also a great fan. Here Aretha Franklin shares some of her favorite songs, courtesy of Rolling Stone.
Tag: Stevie Wonder
Blog posts
15 Songs About Peace, Love & Understanding
In the days after a tragedy like Orlando where it seems that the world (and certainly the world of Stargayzing readers) are grieving, the usual topics of the blog would seem rather tone deaf. I have struggled to find a way back to Stargayzing in this heightened atmosphere of anger, confusion, and pain. After ruminating for several days, I knew the answer must be musical, hence a list of 16 musical messages of hope, empathy, and peace.
13 Over-the-Top Vocal Performances of The 1960s
In the 1960s record production and popular singer’s vocal style were as over-the-top as women’s hair pieces. I was listening to a Jackie Wilson record a few weeks ago and it really hit me…
“I Don’t Like Reggae—I Hate It!” A Comprehensive Guide to Reggae Music for the Unpersuaded
Though it may strike you as something less than shocking coming from an analog, Fosse-loving guy like me, but I’ve never cared much for reggae music. Doesn’t everyone like reggae? I like the idea…
Dionne, Whitney, Luther & Stevie Performing “That’s What Friends Are For” (1987)
In the 1980s it seemed like everything was big: big shoulder pads, big hair, and big music sales. But even by that decade’s exaggerated proportions, composer Burt Bacharach and lyricist Carole Bayer Sager’s “That’s…
An Open Letter to Christina Aguilera Exposing the “Dirrty” Secret She Doesn’t Want You to Know
I will never forget the moment you turned to me and asked sincerely “have you ever heard of a singer named Blossom Dearie?” Dear Christina, How I hoped to never have to go public…
Songs That Should Have Been Top-Ten Pop Hits, Volume 2
1. Anastacia, “Left Outside Alone” (2004): In 1999, Anastacia’s debut single, “I’m Outta Love,” and album, Not That Kind, were a spectacular success all over the world except in her native country, America, where the single did…
The Son Also Rises: Jason Gould Finds His Voice. A Stargayzing Exclusive Interview
Here are a few things you should know about Jason Gould: he is one of the most unassuming, loyal, and loving friends a person could ever have. People used to find him quirky and…
Songs That Should Have Been Top-Ten Hits, Vol. 1: or, Has the Beat Killed Melody on American Radio?
Pop music has become as disposable as an mp3 file. There are many terrific things about the Internet, but one of the negative consequences of so much information is that our connection to even…
Get Reddy! A Tribute to Helen Reddy Illustrating the “Norma Desmond Theory” of Celebrity Developmental Paralysis at the Apex of Stardom
If you’re anything like me, (and if you read my blog you probably are), you’ve found yourself inexplicably singing a Helen Reddy song. You might be walking the dog and suddenly start singing “Delta…
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