Where was I? Oh yes - after a brutal drive through traffic caused by the annual Five Boro Bike Tour, Ben and I settled in at Littlefield NYC for Kindiefest 2011.
Elizabeth Mitchell and company did a great, mellow set that featured guest appearances by Dean Jones and Heidi Swedberg.
After a break, it was time for the rockin' Verve Pipe gang. And they did not disappoint. A fun set that had guitar solos, four-part a cappella harmonies, and punny lyrics. Not to mention lots of audience singalong.
Here are some videos from there set to give you an example of what I mean:
Wake Up
You Can Write A Song (featuring Recess Monkey)
Here's how I know that Ben is impressed by someone - he becomes shy. Whether it was a preschool instructor that he had a crush on, or a musician that he really likes. Not that he doesn't like some of the people he's met in person, such as Ashley and the Jimmies or Molly and Lunch Money. When Ben saw that Recess Monkey was in attendance, he grew a big smile - but he did NOT want to approach them after the show.
Ice Cream Man
Kind of hard to follow the iconic Van Halen version, but this was a neat kindie-fied rendition.
Cereal/All You Need Is Love
If there was ever an appropriate way to wrap up a children's music festival, here it was - a kid-friendly anthem about what else but breakfast cereal. Followed by a segue into a Beatles classic, clean-pressed for stage-filling return performers.
I may have additional thoughts on the music festival (I did not attend the Saturday sessions, so I'll leave that to others to contemplate). For next year, we will look at mass transit options (the subway stops about 1/2 mile from Littlefield) if the bike tour conflicts again. And Kindiefest is recommended! Take it from me, I've been to all three (and the STINK show before that). Kudos to the organizers once again.
Monday, May 02, 2011
Elizabeth Mitchell at Kindiefest 2011
Ben and I suffered through 90 minutes of traffic and got to Kindiefest 2011 at Brooklyn's Littlefield very late.
How late? We missed four of the six acts. Luckily, we managed to catch the final two - Elizabeth Mitchell and the Verve Pipe.
I shot a few videos of both performances. Here are the Mitchell band songs:
Little Liza Jane
What Goes On
Peace Like A River
Good set, crowd was really into the band. And the Verve Pipe were a complete change of pace, which helped make it really feel like a festival.
How late? We missed four of the six acts. Luckily, we managed to catch the final two - Elizabeth Mitchell and the Verve Pipe.
I shot a few videos of both performances. Here are the Mitchell band songs:
Little Liza Jane
What Goes On
Peace Like A River
Good set, crowd was really into the band. And the Verve Pipe were a complete change of pace, which helped make it really feel like a festival.
Sunday, May 01, 2011
Ben's Playlist - Monday, May 2, 2011
Frosty the Snowman - Ben Rudnick & Friends
Do The Turnout - Deedle Deedle Dees
Messy Room Song - The Hipwaders
Burn It To The Ground (clean) - Nickelback
Jewish Girls (At the Matzoh Ball) - The LeeVees
Things Behind the Sun - Nick Drake
Rock and Roll - The New Standards
Super Sonic Rocket Bike - The Bazillions
Say It Loudly - The Not-Its!
Happy - Dog on Fleas
Do The Turnout - Deedle Deedle Dees
Messy Room Song - The Hipwaders
Burn It To The Ground (clean) - Nickelback
Jewish Girls (At the Matzoh Ball) - The LeeVees
Things Behind the Sun - Nick Drake
Rock and Roll - The New Standards
Super Sonic Rocket Bike - The Bazillions
Say It Loudly - The Not-Its!
Happy - Dog on Fleas
Thursday, April 28, 2011
Ben's Playlist - Friday, April 29, 2011
Finiculi Finicula - Hollow Trees
California Gurls - Katy Perry (Feat. Snoop Dogg)
Wouldn't It Be Good - Nik Kershaw
God Only Knows - Natalie Maines
Every Day Is Yours To Win - R.E.M.
There's A Beat - Treehouse 10
Flapjacks - Recess Monkey
Orange - Laura Freeman
Jump So High - Jeremy Plays Guitar
Your Room's A Mess - Rock Daddy Rock
I Have A Little Dreidel - GrooveBarbers
Kind of a Beach Boys theme today, with a cover song and two similar titles.
California Gurls - Katy Perry (Feat. Snoop Dogg)
Wouldn't It Be Good - Nik Kershaw
God Only Knows - Natalie Maines
Every Day Is Yours To Win - R.E.M.
There's A Beat - Treehouse 10
Flapjacks - Recess Monkey
Orange - Laura Freeman
Jump So High - Jeremy Plays Guitar
Your Room's A Mess - Rock Daddy Rock
I Have A Little Dreidel - GrooveBarbers
Kind of a Beach Boys theme today, with a cover song and two similar titles.
Wednesday, April 27, 2011
Ben's Playlist - Thursday, April 28, 2011
Africa Land - Ziggy Marley
I Gotta Feeling - The Black Eyed Peas
Fire And Rain - James Taylor
You've Got A Friend - Me First & the Gimmie Gimmies
Neighbors - Okee-Dokee Brothers
Rock Lobster - Billy Kelly
Say It Loudly - The Not-Its!
Flying - Recess Monkey
Macaroni and Cheese - Bill Harley
I Gotta Feeling - The Black Eyed Peas
Fire And Rain - James Taylor
You've Got A Friend - Me First & the Gimmie Gimmies
Neighbors - Okee-Dokee Brothers
Rock Lobster - Billy Kelly
Say It Loudly - The Not-Its!
Flying - Recess Monkey
Macaroni and Cheese - Bill Harley
Tuesday, April 26, 2011
Ben's Playlist - Wednesday, April 27, 2011
Bubble Test - Daniel Hales & the Frost Heaves
Can't Stop Partying - Weezer
Bat Bada Bing - Cat & A Bird
Hey Hey Hey - Michael Franti & Spearhead
E=MC2 - Big Audio Dynamite
Danke Shoen - Wayne Newton
Can't Keep Johnny Down - They Might Be Giants
Shabbat Shaboom - The Mama Doni Band
In Wonder With the World - The Boogers
Can't Stop Partying - Weezer
Bat Bada Bing - Cat & A Bird
Hey Hey Hey - Michael Franti & Spearhead
E=MC2 - Big Audio Dynamite
Danke Shoen - Wayne Newton
Can't Keep Johnny Down - They Might Be Giants
Shabbat Shaboom - The Mama Doni Band
In Wonder With the World - The Boogers
Monday, April 25, 2011
Ben's Playlist - Tuesday, April 26, 2011
Bushel And A Peck - Rani Arbo & Daisy Mayhem
Doing It Right - The Go! Team
Keep It Green - Bill Harley
Kiss On My List - Hall and Oates
Loser Like Me - Glee
My Name Is No - Starfish
Scootdootdoodlydoo - Billy Kelly
Song of the Passaic - Fountains of Wayne
Starman - Killian Mansfield
Willy Won't - Debbie and Friends
Doing It Right - The Go! Team
Keep It Green - Bill Harley
Kiss On My List - Hall and Oates
Loser Like Me - Glee
My Name Is No - Starfish
Scootdootdoodlydoo - Billy Kelly
Song of the Passaic - Fountains of Wayne
Starman - Killian Mansfield
Willy Won't - Debbie and Friends
Sunday, April 24, 2011
Ben's Playlist - Monday, April 25, 2011
Promise of a New Day - Paula Abdul
Everyone Everywhere - Baze And His Silly Friends
Goyim Friends - The LeeVees
Southern California - Brian Wilson
Summertime - Ella Fitzgerald
Bicycle - Frances England
Look Through Any Window - The Hollies
Green Submarine - Flannery Brothers
All The Best - R.E.M.
The Daylight Strong - The Figgs
Everyone Everywhere - Baze And His Silly Friends
Goyim Friends - The LeeVees
Southern California - Brian Wilson
Summertime - Ella Fitzgerald
Bicycle - Frances England
Look Through Any Window - The Hollies
Green Submarine - Flannery Brothers
All The Best - R.E.M.
The Daylight Strong - The Figgs
Thursday, April 21, 2011
Ben's Playlist - Friday, April 22, 2011
Banana Pancakes - Jack Johnson
Mexican Hat Dance - Herb Alpert & the Tijuana Brass
We Could Be Pen Pals (w/Molly Ledford) - Billy Kelly
Somewhere Only We Know - Glee
Only Girl (In The World) - Rihanna
One Nation Under a Groove - Funkadelic
Get Me Out Of Here - Bill Harley
just bein with you - Brady Rymer
Michael Jackson Medley - Primate Fiasco
Mexican Hat Dance - Herb Alpert & the Tijuana Brass
We Could Be Pen Pals (w/Molly Ledford) - Billy Kelly
Somewhere Only We Know - Glee
Only Girl (In The World) - Rihanna
One Nation Under a Groove - Funkadelic
Get Me Out Of Here - Bill Harley
just bein with you - Brady Rymer
Michael Jackson Medley - Primate Fiasco
Wednesday, April 20, 2011
Ben's Playlist - Thursday, April 21, 2011
Is It Chanukah or Hannukah? - Ruby and Ava Lockner
The Thing That Helps Me Get Through - Michael Franti & Spearhead
Neighbors - Okee-Dokee Brothers
Pink Piggie Polka Pancake Picnic - Ernie & Neal
Ponzi's Flowers - Firewater
Air Guitar - Monkey Monkey Music
Cardboard Box - Justin Roberts
It's Close Enough - Billy Kelly
Scared By My Own Costume - Deedle Deedle Dees
Just Can't Get Enough - Depeche Mode
The Thing That Helps Me Get Through - Michael Franti & Spearhead
Neighbors - Okee-Dokee Brothers
Pink Piggie Polka Pancake Picnic - Ernie & Neal
Ponzi's Flowers - Firewater
Air Guitar - Monkey Monkey Music
Cardboard Box - Justin Roberts
It's Close Enough - Billy Kelly
Scared By My Own Costume - Deedle Deedle Dees
Just Can't Get Enough - Depeche Mode
Tuesday, April 19, 2011
Ben's Playlist - Wednesday, April 20, 2011
Lemonade - Butterflyfish
Change My Luck - The Not-Its!
You're Not The Bossa Nova Me - Daddy A Go-Go
I Like It That Way - Sweet Honey in the Rock
I Gotta Feeling - The Black Eyed Peas
Things Behind the Sun - Nick Drake
Percy on Pluto - The Nields
A Fire Burns For Freedom - Ziggy Marley
Gee Angel - Sugar
TV - Music For Aardvarks Presents David Weinstone
Change My Luck - The Not-Its!
You're Not The Bossa Nova Me - Daddy A Go-Go
I Like It That Way - Sweet Honey in the Rock
I Gotta Feeling - The Black Eyed Peas
Things Behind the Sun - Nick Drake
Percy on Pluto - The Nields
A Fire Burns For Freedom - Ziggy Marley
Gee Angel - Sugar
TV - Music For Aardvarks Presents David Weinstone
Monday, April 18, 2011
ben's Playlist - Tuesday, April 19, 2011
Love Plus One - Nick Heyward
Hail The Creatures - Dan Zanes
Wake Up Clarinet - Oran Etkin
Muriel's Hoof - Soft Boys
Hello Muddah, Hello Faddah - Daddy A Go-Go
My Heart Skips a Beat - The Secret Sisters
Cocoanut Candy - Didi Pop
Oh My Heart - R.E.M.
If You Want To Sing Out, Sing Out - Rani Arbo & Daisy Mayhem
Worms - Ratboy Jr.
B.A.T.H. - The Not-Its!
Hail The Creatures - Dan Zanes
Wake Up Clarinet - Oran Etkin
Muriel's Hoof - Soft Boys
Hello Muddah, Hello Faddah - Daddy A Go-Go
My Heart Skips a Beat - The Secret Sisters
Cocoanut Candy - Didi Pop
Oh My Heart - R.E.M.
If You Want To Sing Out, Sing Out - Rani Arbo & Daisy Mayhem
Worms - Ratboy Jr.
B.A.T.H. - The Not-Its!
Sunday, April 17, 2011
Ben's Playlist - Monday, April 18, 2011
Don't Worry About the Government - Talking Heads
Up the Junction - They Might Be Giants
It's Hard To Be A Kid - Daddy A Go-Go
Are You Gonna Eat That? - Keith Munslow
Dog Days Are Over - Florence And The Machine
Growl Growl - Deedle Deedle Dees
Outside Inside - The Pop-Ups
Opposite Day - Secret Agent 23 Skidoo
My Name Is No - Starfish
Up the Junction - They Might Be Giants
It's Hard To Be A Kid - Daddy A Go-Go
Are You Gonna Eat That? - Keith Munslow
Dog Days Are Over - Florence And The Machine
Growl Growl - Deedle Deedle Dees
Outside Inside - The Pop-Ups
Opposite Day - Secret Agent 23 Skidoo
My Name Is No - Starfish
Friday, April 15, 2011
Daddy A Go Go Has That MoJo
He's Got the Beat, Daddy-O
I knew I liked Daddy A Go Go's new CD when I couldn't stop my leg from stomping along to the beat. And it really a generational thing, but when was the last time a kindie artist worked Steve McQueen and the Backstreet Boys into a song, and didn't care if the little ones got the references? And that's just the first song, "I Wanna Be An Action Figure."
One-man rock band John Boydston became a childrens's music proponent the old-fashioned way: he fell into it. After deciding to give up his job as a television news producer, John started a new career as a stay-at-home dad to his two sons, then both under the age of six. Since adults still need some “me” time, he ended up making rock and roll records for his kids.
What began in 1998 has turned into eight CDs, including the new disc, "Grandkid Rock," a remixed collection of 16 of John's favorite tunes from his previous releases. As stated eariler, he is definitely not afraid to rock. There have been kid's CDs that almost put me to sleep - not a good thing, especially if I'm behind the wheel. No chance of that happening with this disc!
When determining the theme of the CD, John envisioned an aged guitar to symbolize modern grandparents. Why not a classic image, like a grandfather clock? It's a cliché. "That's from another era and doesn't represent today's grandparents at all," John said. "How about a cool looking guitar that's slightly aged, worn, and actually better looking for the wear and tear?" Not to mention the improved sound.
Ben has been practicing Ponchielli's "Dance of the Hours" on the piano. Daddy A Go Go strips the Allan Sherman parody "Hello Muddah, Hello Fadduh" down to its barest elements for a rave-up. "Adventures in Carpool" chronicles the misadventures of a frantic dad en route to dropping off the kids on time for school. As the lyrics go:
There's traffic as far as we can see.
Dad makes a wild turn, watch out for that tree.
I'm glad we're in the Expedition.
I hope that cop will listen.
I'm looking forward to putting Daddy A Go Go into Ben's hands. I'm looking forward even more to putting Daddy A Go Go into our car's CD system as part of the next batch of music to get us to our destinations.
I knew I liked Daddy A Go Go's new CD when I couldn't stop my leg from stomping along to the beat. And it really a generational thing, but when was the last time a kindie artist worked Steve McQueen and the Backstreet Boys into a song, and didn't care if the little ones got the references? And that's just the first song, "I Wanna Be An Action Figure."
One-man rock band John Boydston became a childrens's music proponent the old-fashioned way: he fell into it. After deciding to give up his job as a television news producer, John started a new career as a stay-at-home dad to his two sons, then both under the age of six. Since adults still need some “me” time, he ended up making rock and roll records for his kids.
What began in 1998 has turned into eight CDs, including the new disc, "Grandkid Rock," a remixed collection of 16 of John's favorite tunes from his previous releases. As stated eariler, he is definitely not afraid to rock. There have been kid's CDs that almost put me to sleep - not a good thing, especially if I'm behind the wheel. No chance of that happening with this disc!
When determining the theme of the CD, John envisioned an aged guitar to symbolize modern grandparents. Why not a classic image, like a grandfather clock? It's a cliché. "That's from another era and doesn't represent today's grandparents at all," John said. "How about a cool looking guitar that's slightly aged, worn, and actually better looking for the wear and tear?" Not to mention the improved sound.
Ben has been practicing Ponchielli's "Dance of the Hours" on the piano. Daddy A Go Go strips the Allan Sherman parody "Hello Muddah, Hello Fadduh" down to its barest elements for a rave-up. "Adventures in Carpool" chronicles the misadventures of a frantic dad en route to dropping off the kids on time for school. As the lyrics go:
There's traffic as far as we can see.
Dad makes a wild turn, watch out for that tree.
I'm glad we're in the Expedition.
I hope that cop will listen.
I'm looking forward to putting Daddy A Go Go into Ben's hands. I'm looking forward even more to putting Daddy A Go Go into our car's CD system as part of the next batch of music to get us to our destinations.
Thursday, April 14, 2011
Ben's Playlist - Friday, April 15, 2011
Watch the Sunshine - Big Star
A World of Happiness for Autism - Ralph Covert & Various Artists
Because I Said So - Keller Williams
Imagination - Peter Himmelman
A Little Green - Baze And His Silly Friends
Change My Luck - The Not-Its!
Big Blue Whale - Joanie Leeds & The Nightlights
5 O'Clock World - Dave Clark Five
Tater Tot - Pants Pants Pants
People Take Pictures of Each Other - The Kinks
A World of Happiness for Autism - Ralph Covert & Various Artists
Because I Said So - Keller Williams
Imagination - Peter Himmelman
A Little Green - Baze And His Silly Friends
Change My Luck - The Not-Its!
Big Blue Whale - Joanie Leeds & The Nightlights
5 O'Clock World - Dave Clark Five
Tater Tot - Pants Pants Pants
People Take Pictures of Each Other - The Kinks
Wednesday, April 13, 2011
Ben's Playlist - Thursday, April 14, 2011
The Time (The Dirty Bit) - Black Eyed Peas
The Thing That Helps Me Get Through - Michael Franti & Spearhead
Summertime - Ella Fitzgerald
Do The Turnout - Deedle Deedle Dees
Snack Time - RTTs
Hero - The Okee Dokee Brothers
Smiles & Laughter - Modern English
Let The Good Times Roll - Harry Nilsson
Everything's Controlled By the Brain - Doc Dauer
The Thing That Helps Me Get Through - Michael Franti & Spearhead
Summertime - Ella Fitzgerald
Do The Turnout - Deedle Deedle Dees
Snack Time - RTTs
Hero - The Okee Dokee Brothers
Smiles & Laughter - Modern English
Let The Good Times Roll - Harry Nilsson
Everything's Controlled By the Brain - Doc Dauer
Free Earth Day Song!
On Earth Day (Friday, April 22nd 2011), Baze And His Silly Friends are proud to premiere and share their newest song, A Little Green!
The song teaches children that if we all do a little bit everyday, we all can make a big difference and change the world.
A Little Green, inspired by world music, features guest vocalist Stacia Newcomb, who plays “Star” on PBS Kids Sprout The Good Night Show.
Click here for a free download of "A Little Green."
The song teaches children that if we all do a little bit everyday, we all can make a big difference and change the world.
A Little Green, inspired by world music, features guest vocalist Stacia Newcomb, who plays “Star” on PBS Kids Sprout The Good Night Show.
Click here for a free download of "A Little Green."
Tuesday, April 12, 2011
Ben's Playlist - Wednesday, April 13, 2011
Gotta Get Up - Harry Nilsson
TV - Music For Aardvarks Presents David Weinstone
Shake! - Flannery Brothers
Reading Makes Me Want to Dance Out Loud - Monty Harper
Scootdootdoodlydoo - Billy Kelly
Bohemian Rhapsody - Glee
You be You - Butterflyfish
Give A Little Bit - Supertramp
Sesame Street Theme - ScribbleMonster
Si Se Puede - Deedle Deedle Dees
TV - Music For Aardvarks Presents David Weinstone
Shake! - Flannery Brothers
Reading Makes Me Want to Dance Out Loud - Monty Harper
Scootdootdoodlydoo - Billy Kelly
Bohemian Rhapsody - Glee
You be You - Butterflyfish
Give A Little Bit - Supertramp
Sesame Street Theme - ScribbleMonster
Si Se Puede - Deedle Deedle Dees
Monday, April 11, 2011
ben's Playlist - Tuesday, April 12, 2011
Headphones - Michael Franti & Spearhead
My Lucky Day - Bruce Springsteen
It's Raining Again - Supertramp
Dance This Mess Around - The B-52s
Poker Face (Glee Cast) (Feat. Idina Menzel) - Glee
Pink Piggie Polka Pancake Picnic - Ernie & Neal
No One Said It Would Be Easy - Cloud Cult
Cissy Strut - The Meters
Mexican Hat Dance - Herb Alpert & the Tijuana Brass
My Lucky Day - Bruce Springsteen
It's Raining Again - Supertramp
Dance This Mess Around - The B-52s
Poker Face (Glee Cast) (Feat. Idina Menzel) - Glee
Pink Piggie Polka Pancake Picnic - Ernie & Neal
No One Said It Would Be Easy - Cloud Cult
Cissy Strut - The Meters
Mexican Hat Dance - Herb Alpert & the Tijuana Brass
Sunday, April 10, 2011
Ben's Playlist - Monday, April 11, 2011
Why Do I Have A Shadow? - Dorothy Collins
I Just Want to Have Fun - Of Montreal
Get Funky - Teenage Fanclub
Dreamer - Supertramp
Joy - NoMeansNo
Big Kite - Flannery Brothers
Keep It Green - Bill Harley
Shpilkas - Bunny Clogs
Starman - Golden Smog
Just Happy To Be Me - ScribbleMonster
Mr. Fancy Pants - Jonathan Coulton
California Dreaming - Mamas and the Papas
I Just Want to Have Fun - Of Montreal
Get Funky - Teenage Fanclub
Dreamer - Supertramp
Joy - NoMeansNo
Big Kite - Flannery Brothers
Keep It Green - Bill Harley
Shpilkas - Bunny Clogs
Starman - Golden Smog
Just Happy To Be Me - ScribbleMonster
Mr. Fancy Pants - Jonathan Coulton
California Dreaming - Mamas and the Papas
Friday, April 08, 2011
Joanie Leeds Unleashes Her Inner Animal
Surprisingly, It's Eight Years Old
Joanie Leeds has been singing since she was two years old. While her career has taken her into the adult music realm, Joanie kept in touch with her inner kindie spirit. Her fourth children's CD, What A Zoo!, invigorates that concept.
While growing up on the mean streets of Miami, Florida, Joanie developed a love and appreciation for the outdoors. "Whether I was relaxing by the ocean with my mom, camping or hiking with my dad, or taking class trips to the Florida Everglades, nature and beauty surrounded me," Joanie says in the liner notes. Her brother Jonathan became an environmentalist. Inspired by his actions, she spent several years writing a collection of animal tunes. "I hope the content also encompasses and encourages a larger message, for both children and adults," she adds.
The menagerie starts with "All the Animals," an accountant's dream that tracks the appendages of various creatures. Listeners then travel to the waterfront for "Mosquitoes" and a hiphop take on "Froggy Went A'Courtin'" featuring kidhop funkmaster Secret Agent 23 Skidoo.
Joanie stays in the water for "Big Blue Whale" ("The biggest animal to ever live on the Earth"), "Happy as a Clam," and "See Cow." She ventures onto higher ground and covers Phish on "Possum," as well as "Pony Boy" and "Wimoweh" (otherwise known as "The Lion Sleeps Tonight"). Two ballads, "Hummingbird" and "My Butterfly" are pleasant but cover the same melodic ground. It's a tribute to the animal kingdom and Joanie Leeds (and her band, the Nightlights) trek from the mountains to the seas to make sure no reptile or amphibian is shorted in the journey.
I'm interested in what's coming next from Joanie - a kindie "supergroup" project in the vein of "We Are the World." Joanie and superproducer Tor Hyams are recording a new version of his song, "A World of Happiness" with a bevy of artists including herself, Frances England, Caspar Babypants, Billy Kelly, Billy Jonas, Ralph Covert, Recess Monkey, and many more. Fingers are crossed and hoping for a great success on their part.
Joanie Leeds has been singing since she was two years old. While her career has taken her into the adult music realm, Joanie kept in touch with her inner kindie spirit. Her fourth children's CD, What A Zoo!, invigorates that concept.
While growing up on the mean streets of Miami, Florida, Joanie developed a love and appreciation for the outdoors. "Whether I was relaxing by the ocean with my mom, camping or hiking with my dad, or taking class trips to the Florida Everglades, nature and beauty surrounded me," Joanie says in the liner notes. Her brother Jonathan became an environmentalist. Inspired by his actions, she spent several years writing a collection of animal tunes. "I hope the content also encompasses and encourages a larger message, for both children and adults," she adds.
The menagerie starts with "All the Animals," an accountant's dream that tracks the appendages of various creatures. Listeners then travel to the waterfront for "Mosquitoes" and a hiphop take on "Froggy Went A'Courtin'" featuring kidhop funkmaster Secret Agent 23 Skidoo.
Joanie stays in the water for "Big Blue Whale" ("The biggest animal to ever live on the Earth"), "Happy as a Clam," and "See Cow." She ventures onto higher ground and covers Phish on "Possum," as well as "Pony Boy" and "Wimoweh" (otherwise known as "The Lion Sleeps Tonight"). Two ballads, "Hummingbird" and "My Butterfly" are pleasant but cover the same melodic ground. It's a tribute to the animal kingdom and Joanie Leeds (and her band, the Nightlights) trek from the mountains to the seas to make sure no reptile or amphibian is shorted in the journey.
I'm interested in what's coming next from Joanie - a kindie "supergroup" project in the vein of "We Are the World." Joanie and superproducer Tor Hyams are recording a new version of his song, "A World of Happiness" with a bevy of artists including herself, Frances England, Caspar Babypants, Billy Kelly, Billy Jonas, Ralph Covert, Recess Monkey, and many more. Fingers are crossed and hoping for a great success on their part.
Thursday, April 07, 2011
Ben's Playlist - Friday, April 8, 2011
Free Your Mind - En Vogue
Shake It - Michael Franti & Spearhead Feat. Lady Saw
Get Me Out Of Here - Bill Harley
La La La (I Love You) - Egg
don't like change - Brady Rymer
Colors - John & Mark
Are You Gonna Eat That? - Keith Munslow
I Want to Hold Your Ear - ScribbleMonster
Lots of Latkes - Shira Kline
Shake It - Michael Franti & Spearhead Feat. Lady Saw
Get Me Out Of Here - Bill Harley
La La La (I Love You) - Egg
don't like change - Brady Rymer
Colors - John & Mark
Are You Gonna Eat That? - Keith Munslow
I Want to Hold Your Ear - ScribbleMonster
Lots of Latkes - Shira Kline
Wednesday, April 06, 2011
Ben's Playlist - Thursday, April 7, 2011
The Cat Came Back - Monty Harper
TV - Music For Aardvarks Presents David Weinstone
Birds Fly Away - Theresa Andersson
Dream City - Free Energy
Say It Loudly - The Not-Its!
My Body - Young the Giant
Wimoweh - Joanie Leeds & The Nightlights
Be Thankful For What You Got - Yo La Tengo
Look Through Any Window - The Hollies
TV - Music For Aardvarks Presents David Weinstone
Birds Fly Away - Theresa Andersson
Dream City - Free Energy
Say It Loudly - The Not-Its!
My Body - Young the Giant
Wimoweh - Joanie Leeds & The Nightlights
Be Thankful For What You Got - Yo La Tengo
Look Through Any Window - The Hollies
Tuesday, April 05, 2011
Ben's Playlist - Wednesday, April 6, 2011
Can't Keep Johnny Down - They Might Be Giants
I'm Alright - Kenny Loggins
Snack Time - RTTs
Rolling In the Deep - Adele
Love's Enough - Songeez
The Race Is On Again - Yo La Tengo
Obsessed By Trucks - Justin Roberts
Freedom Highway - Mavis Staples
Brimful of Asha - Cornershop
I'm Alright - Kenny Loggins
Snack Time - RTTs
Rolling In the Deep - Adele
Love's Enough - Songeez
The Race Is On Again - Yo La Tengo
Obsessed By Trucks - Justin Roberts
Freedom Highway - Mavis Staples
Brimful of Asha - Cornershop
Monday, April 04, 2011
Ben's Playlist - Tuesday, April 5, 2011
Kugel - The LeeVees
Sesame Street Theme - ScribbleMonster
Trick or Treat - Justin Roberts
Check It Out - Casper Babypants
The Galax Sea - Recess Monkey
Tube Sox - Princess Katie and Racer Steve
Bonobo Joe & the Voodoo Queen - The Hipwaders
Southern California - Brian Wilson
Hi 5 Dance - Flannery Brothers
Sound of Sunshine - Michael Franti & Spearhead
Sesame Street Theme - ScribbleMonster
Trick or Treat - Justin Roberts
Check It Out - Casper Babypants
The Galax Sea - Recess Monkey
Tube Sox - Princess Katie and Racer Steve
Bonobo Joe & the Voodoo Queen - The Hipwaders
Southern California - Brian Wilson
Hi 5 Dance - Flannery Brothers
Sound of Sunshine - Michael Franti & Spearhead
Sunday, April 03, 2011
Ben's Playlist - Monday, April 4, 2011
Beautiful - Paul Simon
Forget You (Clean) - Cee Lo Green
One Time - Justin Bieber
Pancakes! - Bramble Jam
Muffin Man - Ella Fitzgerald
Dance This Mess Around - The B-52s
Lucy and Tighty - Okee-Dokee Brothers
Fireworks - Katy Perry
Twistification - Dog on Fleas
Forget You (Clean) - Cee Lo Green
One Time - Justin Bieber
Pancakes! - Bramble Jam
Muffin Man - Ella Fitzgerald
Dance This Mess Around - The B-52s
Lucy and Tighty - Okee-Dokee Brothers
Fireworks - Katy Perry
Twistification - Dog on Fleas
Friday, April 01, 2011
House Party in the Family Garden
Billy Kelly's Non-Blah Sound
Pennsylvania's Billy Kelly makes kids music sound informal. In fact, his new album, "The Family Garden," sounds like a one-take recording, down to the informal "I'm a little out of tune" banter between the songs. Kelly also asks smaller-than-life questions, such as "Why Is the Moon Following Me?" and answers with "does it want an english muffin?"
Kelly started recording childrens music in 2009. Yes, a mere two years ago and suddenly he's up to his third full CD. But then again, there's a deceptive simplicity in a song like "Scootdootdoodlydoo," which sounds like something from a 1920s radio program and "The Happy Happy Whistling Song." And he's brought along some accomplished friends, including Lunch Money's Molly Ledford on, "We Could Be Pen Pals."
Kelly chose to record "The Family Garden" with minimal overdubbing, giving the album a "just-recorded" feel, similar to Dan Zanes. And Kelly does not seem as concerned as other childrens recording artists are, in creating an album as a complete thought - with an intro, rollicking middle section, and a quieting down period. As if children need to be told to "calm down" after hearing a CD. Instead, Kelly delivers white rap ("Coney Island Rap Jam Thing") into a cover of "Rock Lobster," the original "The Invention Of The Straw" and its fictitious history lesson, then ends with the equally-uptempo "It's A Wonderful Life."
We can only hope that Billy Kelly has many silly thoughts left in his head that he's looking forward to sharing in the coming years.
Pennsylvania's Billy Kelly makes kids music sound informal. In fact, his new album, "The Family Garden," sounds like a one-take recording, down to the informal "I'm a little out of tune" banter between the songs. Kelly also asks smaller-than-life questions, such as "Why Is the Moon Following Me?" and answers with "does it want an english muffin?"
Kelly started recording childrens music in 2009. Yes, a mere two years ago and suddenly he's up to his third full CD. But then again, there's a deceptive simplicity in a song like "Scootdootdoodlydoo," which sounds like something from a 1920s radio program and "The Happy Happy Whistling Song." And he's brought along some accomplished friends, including Lunch Money's Molly Ledford on, "We Could Be Pen Pals."
Kelly chose to record "The Family Garden" with minimal overdubbing, giving the album a "just-recorded" feel, similar to Dan Zanes. And Kelly does not seem as concerned as other childrens recording artists are, in creating an album as a complete thought - with an intro, rollicking middle section, and a quieting down period. As if children need to be told to "calm down" after hearing a CD. Instead, Kelly delivers white rap ("Coney Island Rap Jam Thing") into a cover of "Rock Lobster," the original "The Invention Of The Straw" and its fictitious history lesson, then ends with the equally-uptempo "It's A Wonderful Life."
We can only hope that Billy Kelly has many silly thoughts left in his head that he's looking forward to sharing in the coming years.
Thursday, March 31, 2011
Ben's Playlist - Friday, April 1, 2011
Sun Is Shining - Paul McCartney
Headphones - Michael Franti & Spearhead
Count Me In - Trout Fishing in America
I Want To Push Buttons - Lunch Money
Just the Way You Are - Bruno Mars
Take A Bow - Leona Lewis
Jewish Cowgirl [Remix] - The Mama Doni Band
Yonder Comes a Freight Train - Laura Cantrell
TV - Music For Aardvarks Presents David Weinstone
Headphones - Michael Franti & Spearhead
Count Me In - Trout Fishing in America
I Want To Push Buttons - Lunch Money
Just the Way You Are - Bruno Mars
Take A Bow - Leona Lewis
Jewish Cowgirl [Remix] - The Mama Doni Band
Yonder Comes a Freight Train - Laura Cantrell
TV - Music For Aardvarks Presents David Weinstone
Wednesday, March 30, 2011
Ben's Playlist - Thursday, March 31, 2011
Daddy Fox - Brendan Taaffe
Sunshine - DeVotchKa
Soft Things - Brady Rymer
Sing About the Sun - Dog on Fleas
Green Submarine - Flannery Brothers
My Best Friend - Weezer
Shpilkas - Bunny Clogs
Sand In My Sandwich - Princess Katie and Racer Steve
Be Thankful For What You Got - Yo La Tengo
Sunshine - DeVotchKa
Soft Things - Brady Rymer
Sing About the Sun - Dog on Fleas
Green Submarine - Flannery Brothers
My Best Friend - Weezer
Shpilkas - Bunny Clogs
Sand In My Sandwich - Princess Katie and Racer Steve
Be Thankful For What You Got - Yo La Tengo
Tuesday, March 29, 2011
Ben's Playlist - Wednesday, March 30, 2011
Lonely Days Lonely Nights - The Bee Gees
Hero - The Okee Dokee Brothers
With My Own Two Hands - Ben Harper
My Body - Young the Giant
Let's Go! - Flannery Brothers
Pork and Beans - Weezer
Butter - Bunny Clogs
Baby Brother - Keith Munslow
For Pete's Sake - The Monkees
Messy Room Song - The Hipwaders
Hero - The Okee Dokee Brothers
With My Own Two Hands - Ben Harper
My Body - Young the Giant
Let's Go! - Flannery Brothers
Pork and Beans - Weezer
Butter - Bunny Clogs
Baby Brother - Keith Munslow
For Pete's Sake - The Monkees
Messy Room Song - The Hipwaders
Monday, March 28, 2011
Ben's Playlist - Tuesday, March 20, 2011
The Rockford Files - Mike Post
Jump Up and Down - Flannery Brothers
Do The Turnout - Deedle Deedle Dees
Scootdootdoodlydoo - Billy Kelly
Six Months in a Leaky Boat - Split Enz
Obsessed By Trucks - Justin Roberts
Saskia Hamilton - Ben Folds & Nick Hornby
Blueberry Pie - Dog on Fleas
Bicycle - Frances England
Banana Stand - Ratboy Jr.
Cookies & Milk - Royal Order of Chords and Keys
Jump Up and Down - Flannery Brothers
Do The Turnout - Deedle Deedle Dees
Scootdootdoodlydoo - Billy Kelly
Six Months in a Leaky Boat - Split Enz
Obsessed By Trucks - Justin Roberts
Saskia Hamilton - Ben Folds & Nick Hornby
Blueberry Pie - Dog on Fleas
Bicycle - Frances England
Banana Stand - Ratboy Jr.
Cookies & Milk - Royal Order of Chords and Keys
Sunday, March 27, 2011
Ben's Playlist - Monday, March 28, 2011
Is It Chanukah or Hannukah? - Ruby and Ava Lockner
(Nothing But) Flowers - Talking Heads
Linus and Lucy - Asylum Street Spankers
Even Numbers - They Might Be Giants
This Is Hip - John Lee Hooker
Bushel And A Peck - Rani Arbo & Daisy Mayhem
Outside Inside - Pop-Ups
Big Kite - Flannery Brothers
It's Close Enough - Billy Kelly
Quite Early Morning - Pete Seeger
(Nothing But) Flowers - Talking Heads
Linus and Lucy - Asylum Street Spankers
Even Numbers - They Might Be Giants
This Is Hip - John Lee Hooker
Bushel And A Peck - Rani Arbo & Daisy Mayhem
Outside Inside - Pop-Ups
Big Kite - Flannery Brothers
It's Close Enough - Billy Kelly
Quite Early Morning - Pete Seeger
Thursday, March 24, 2011
Ben's Playlist - Friday, March 25, 2011
Kick - INXS
Things You Want - The Hipwaders
Draw - Luv Clowns
Smooth Operator - Sade
How Do You Build a Robot? - Recess Monkey
Scootdootdoodlydoo - Billy Kelly
Neighbors - Okee-Dokee Brothers
Five Monsters In My Family - ScribbleMonster
Science Is Real - They Might Be Giants
Stratus And Cumulus - Tom Glazer
My Imagination - Baze And His Silly Friends
I Might Be Lying - Steve Weeks
Things You Want - The Hipwaders
Draw - Luv Clowns
Smooth Operator - Sade
How Do You Build a Robot? - Recess Monkey
Scootdootdoodlydoo - Billy Kelly
Neighbors - Okee-Dokee Brothers
Five Monsters In My Family - ScribbleMonster
Science Is Real - They Might Be Giants
Stratus And Cumulus - Tom Glazer
My Imagination - Baze And His Silly Friends
I Might Be Lying - Steve Weeks
Wednesday, March 23, 2011
Ben's Playlist - Thursday, March 24, 2011
Loser Like Me - Glee
Wind It Up - Gwen Stefani
Mexican Hat Dance - Herb Alpert & the Tijuana Brass
Mighty Milo - Music For Aardvarks Presents David Weinstone
Run - Mr. G
Growl Growl - Deedle Deedle Dees
Superball - Magic Kids
The Thing That Helps Me Get Through - Michael Franti & Spearhead
Rock Lobster - Billy Kelly
Tube Sox - Princess Katie and Racer Steve
Wind It Up - Gwen Stefani
Mexican Hat Dance - Herb Alpert & the Tijuana Brass
Mighty Milo - Music For Aardvarks Presents David Weinstone
Run - Mr. G
Growl Growl - Deedle Deedle Dees
Superball - Magic Kids
The Thing That Helps Me Get Through - Michael Franti & Spearhead
Rock Lobster - Billy Kelly
Tube Sox - Princess Katie and Racer Steve
Tuesday, March 22, 2011
Ben's Playlist - Wednesday, March 23, 2011
Be Yourself - Grenadilla
Sunday Morning - GMG Jam
De Colores - Pete Seeger
Say It Loudly - The Not-Its!
Rock and Roll - The New Standards
Macaroni and Cheese - Bill Harley
I Gotta Feeling - The Black Eyed Peas
Brave New World - Weezer
Tommy Got In Trouble - The Bazillions
Sunday Morning - GMG Jam
De Colores - Pete Seeger
Say It Loudly - The Not-Its!
Rock and Roll - The New Standards
Macaroni and Cheese - Bill Harley
I Gotta Feeling - The Black Eyed Peas
Brave New World - Weezer
Tommy Got In Trouble - The Bazillions
Monday, March 21, 2011
Ben's Playlist - Tuesday, March 22, 2011
Danke Shoen - Wayne Newton
The Daylight Strong - The Figgs
My Keyboard - Quiet Ones
The Race Is On Again - Yo La Tengo
Ain't Nothin' But a Party - Dirty Dozen Brass Band
No Cars Go - The Arcade Fire
Say, Say, Oh Playmate - April Smith & The Great Picture
Nonagon - They Might Be Giants
Motion, Motion Everywhere - Tom Glazer & Dottie Evans
Ruling Me - Weezer
The Daylight Strong - The Figgs
My Keyboard - Quiet Ones
The Race Is On Again - Yo La Tengo
Ain't Nothin' But a Party - Dirty Dozen Brass Band
No Cars Go - The Arcade Fire
Say, Say, Oh Playmate - April Smith & The Great Picture
Nonagon - They Might Be Giants
Motion, Motion Everywhere - Tom Glazer & Dottie Evans
Ruling Me - Weezer
Sunday, March 20, 2011
Ben's Playlist - Monday, March 21, 2011
I Still Believe - Frank Turner
Honest Kid - Princess Katie and Racer Steve
E Eats Everything - They Might Be Giants
Dreamer - Supertramp
Worms - Dog On Fleas
Drum! - The Deedle Deedle Dees
Scootdootdoodlydoo - Billy Kell
Meet Me Halfway - The Black Eyed Peas
I Might Be Lying - Steve Weeks
Can't Get Enough of You Baby - Smash Mouth
Honest Kid - Princess Katie and Racer Steve
E Eats Everything - They Might Be Giants
Dreamer - Supertramp
Worms - Dog On Fleas
Drum! - The Deedle Deedle Dees
Scootdootdoodlydoo - Billy Kell
Meet Me Halfway - The Black Eyed Peas
I Might Be Lying - Steve Weeks
Can't Get Enough of You Baby - Smash Mouth
Thursday, March 17, 2011
Ben's Playlist - Friday, March 18, 2011
Picky Eater - Brady Rymer
Ice Ages Are Fun - Board of Education
Need You Now - Lady Antebellum
There's A Beat - Treehouse 10
Froggie Went A Coutrin' - Joanie Leeds (Featuring Secret Agent 23 Skidoo)
Kapalua Bay - Didi Pop
Baby Lee - Teenage Fanclub
We R Who We R - Ke$ha
Daddy Fox - Brendan Taaffe
Brush Brush Brush - Of Montreal
Ice Ages Are Fun - Board of Education
Need You Now - Lady Antebellum
There's A Beat - Treehouse 10
Froggie Went A Coutrin' - Joanie Leeds (Featuring Secret Agent 23 Skidoo)
Kapalua Bay - Didi Pop
Baby Lee - Teenage Fanclub
We R Who We R - Ke$ha
Daddy Fox - Brendan Taaffe
Brush Brush Brush - Of Montreal
Wednesday, March 16, 2011
Ben's Playlist - Thursday, March 17, 2011
Blueberry Pie - Dog on Fleas
Do The Turnout - Deedle Deedle Dees
Hey Hey Hey - Michael Franti & Spearhead
In My Room - Beach Boys
Just Bein' With You - Brady Rymer
My Imagination - Baze And His Silly Friends
Roam - The B-52s
Tears Dry On Their Own - Amy Winehouse
Time Out To Rock - The Not-Its!
What's Your Name? - Meredith Brooks
Do The Turnout - Deedle Deedle Dees
Hey Hey Hey - Michael Franti & Spearhead
In My Room - Beach Boys
Just Bein' With You - Brady Rymer
My Imagination - Baze And His Silly Friends
Roam - The B-52s
Tears Dry On Their Own - Amy Winehouse
Time Out To Rock - The Not-Its!
What's Your Name? - Meredith Brooks
Tuesday, March 15, 2011
Ben's Playlist - Wednesday, March 16, 2011
Change My Luck - The Not-Its!
De Colores - Pete Seeger
Don't Like Change - Brady Rymer
Goods - Mates of State
Honey Honey - Feist
I Meant To Do That - Jeremy Plays Guitar
My Funny Valentine - Ella Fitzgerald
Root Down - Beastie Boys
Spiders in My Breakfast - Harmonica Pocket
De Colores - Pete Seeger
Don't Like Change - Brady Rymer
Goods - Mates of State
Honey Honey - Feist
I Meant To Do That - Jeremy Plays Guitar
My Funny Valentine - Ella Fitzgerald
Root Down - Beastie Boys
Spiders in My Breakfast - Harmonica Pocket
Monday, March 14, 2011
Ben's Playlist - Tuesday, March 15, 2011
Baby U - Dog On Fleas
Brimful of Asha - Cornershop
Everything's Controlled By the Brain - Doc Dauer
Growl Growl - Deedle Deedle Dees
I Love My Library - Lunch Money
Not Fast Cheetah - Recess Monkey
Octopus - Artichoke
Rock Out! - Uncle Rock
Shake! - Flannery Brothers
Tommy Got In Trouble - The Bazillions
What's On Your Shirt? - The Jimmies
Brimful of Asha - Cornershop
Everything's Controlled By the Brain - Doc Dauer
Growl Growl - Deedle Deedle Dees
I Love My Library - Lunch Money
Not Fast Cheetah - Recess Monkey
Octopus - Artichoke
Rock Out! - Uncle Rock
Shake! - Flannery Brothers
Tommy Got In Trouble - The Bazillions
What's On Your Shirt? - The Jimmies
Sunday, March 13, 2011
Ben's Playlist - Monday, March 14, 2011
Bat Bada Bing - Cat & A Bird
Clocks - Coldplay & Buena Vista Social Club
Finiculi Finicula - Hollow Trees
Fire And Rain - James Taylor
I Want An Alien for Christmas - Fountains of Wayne
Robot Pirate - Ratboy Jr.
Small Car - Marvin Pontiac
ÜBerlin - R.E.M.
Wake Up Clarinet - Oran Etkin
Clocks - Coldplay & Buena Vista Social Club
Finiculi Finicula - Hollow Trees
Fire And Rain - James Taylor
I Want An Alien for Christmas - Fountains of Wayne
Robot Pirate - Ratboy Jr.
Small Car - Marvin Pontiac
ÜBerlin - R.E.M.
Wake Up Clarinet - Oran Etkin
Thursday, March 10, 2011
New and a Half Men!
No Sheen? No problem!
Charlie Sheen is now unseen. His TV show's Malibu mansion lacks one man.
But how to fill that space? And how to explain it, in a way that doesn't insult the viewing audience of TWO AND A HALF MEN (I know, there's a double entendre in that very statement).
It's been well-established that Alan Harper and Charlie Harper and siblings. Could there be a "cousin" Harper? Possibly. But I have another scenario that could energize the show in whole new directions and possibly, ratings-dependent, keep the show moving for a 10th season and beyond.
Evelyn Harper (Holland Taylor's character) is a much-married realtor. It's entirely realistic that Evelyn could quickly fall in love. Swept off her feet by a wealthy man (call him Richard Johnson, since the show is built on loving penis jokes), they wed in Vegas. And wouldn't you know it? His wealthy, disapproving son (call him Richard Jr. or Little Dick) comes to visit - and wants to stick around to make sure Evelyn doesn't abscond with his father's estate.
And Dick needs a house! Luckily, Charlie Harper and his bride are living it up in France. Evelyn pulls some swift negotiations and Dickie boy takes over the Malibu estate. Of course, there's a catch - new stepbrother Alan comes with the house. Pretty much over a barrel, Dickie finds himself living the California lifestyle, complete with a new house, new housemate, maid, nephew, and a whole world to explore.
For Richard? On the high end, I could see Malcolm McDowell. On the low end, there's Michael Hogan (Battlestar Galactica). The point is, the character becomes either a semi-regular - or a plot device, who can then be killed off after a few episodes. Because if he and Evelyn get divorced, then there's no real motivation for Dick to keep Alan around the house. But if it was in his father's will, well, that's another story.
As for Dick Johnson? Rob Lowe is apparently tied up with PARKS AND RECREATION. There were rumors of John Stamos, who has experience piggybacking onto another long-running hit (ER).
But I would go in another direction. How about career TV star Scott Baio? He's even the exact age that the character would need to be. And he's from New York, which fits the "fish out of water" nature of the character. And HIS fortune? He put up the money for some nerdy friends who had an idea for an Internet startup company - called Google.
It's almost a win-win for Warner Brothers and CBS. They can cast TWO new regulars for less than half the price of Charlie Sheen - and possibly get another 2-3 seasons of their warhorse series.
Think about it, Warner Brothers.
And you're welcome.
Charlie Sheen is now unseen. His TV show's Malibu mansion lacks one man.
But how to fill that space? And how to explain it, in a way that doesn't insult the viewing audience of TWO AND A HALF MEN (I know, there's a double entendre in that very statement).
It's been well-established that Alan Harper and Charlie Harper and siblings. Could there be a "cousin" Harper? Possibly. But I have another scenario that could energize the show in whole new directions and possibly, ratings-dependent, keep the show moving for a 10th season and beyond.
Evelyn Harper (Holland Taylor's character) is a much-married realtor. It's entirely realistic that Evelyn could quickly fall in love. Swept off her feet by a wealthy man (call him Richard Johnson, since the show is built on loving penis jokes), they wed in Vegas. And wouldn't you know it? His wealthy, disapproving son (call him Richard Jr. or Little Dick) comes to visit - and wants to stick around to make sure Evelyn doesn't abscond with his father's estate.
And Dick needs a house! Luckily, Charlie Harper and his bride are living it up in France. Evelyn pulls some swift negotiations and Dickie boy takes over the Malibu estate. Of course, there's a catch - new stepbrother Alan comes with the house. Pretty much over a barrel, Dickie finds himself living the California lifestyle, complete with a new house, new housemate, maid, nephew, and a whole world to explore.
For Richard? On the high end, I could see Malcolm McDowell. On the low end, there's Michael Hogan (Battlestar Galactica). The point is, the character becomes either a semi-regular - or a plot device, who can then be killed off after a few episodes. Because if he and Evelyn get divorced, then there's no real motivation for Dick to keep Alan around the house. But if it was in his father's will, well, that's another story.
As for Dick Johnson? Rob Lowe is apparently tied up with PARKS AND RECREATION. There were rumors of John Stamos, who has experience piggybacking onto another long-running hit (ER).
But I would go in another direction. How about career TV star Scott Baio? He's even the exact age that the character would need to be. And he's from New York, which fits the "fish out of water" nature of the character. And HIS fortune? He put up the money for some nerdy friends who had an idea for an Internet startup company - called Google.
It's almost a win-win for Warner Brothers and CBS. They can cast TWO new regulars for less than half the price of Charlie Sheen - and possibly get another 2-3 seasons of their warhorse series.
Think about it, Warner Brothers.
And you're welcome.
Ben's Playlist - Friday, March 11, 2011
Bicycle - Frances England
Burnin' Up - Jonas Brothers
Hang On - Weezer
Hole Hearted - Extreme
It's Raining Again - Supertramp
Marshmallow Farm - Recess Monkey
Rolling In the Deep - Adele
Unicorn - Dr. Dog
We Could Be Pen Pals (w/Molly Ledford) - Billy Kelly
What's On Your Shirt? - The Jimmies
I guess Bieber fever is over and the Jonas Brothers are back.
Burnin' Up - Jonas Brothers
Hang On - Weezer
Hole Hearted - Extreme
It's Raining Again - Supertramp
Marshmallow Farm - Recess Monkey
Rolling In the Deep - Adele
Unicorn - Dr. Dog
We Could Be Pen Pals (w/Molly Ledford) - Billy Kelly
What's On Your Shirt? - The Jimmies
I guess Bieber fever is over and the Jonas Brothers are back.
Wednesday, March 09, 2011
Ben's Playlist - Thursday, March 10, 2011
Africa Land - Ziggy Marley
De Colores - Pete Seeger
One Wasn't Enough - Flannery Brothers
Michael Jackson Medley - Primate Fiasco
Teenage Dream (Glee Cast Version) - Glee
Villa Villekula Hula - Monty Harper
Give A Little Bit - Supertramp
Five Monsters In My Family - ScribbleMonster
Do The Turnout - Deedle Deedle Dees
De Colores - Pete Seeger
One Wasn't Enough - Flannery Brothers
Michael Jackson Medley - Primate Fiasco
Teenage Dream (Glee Cast Version) - Glee
Villa Villekula Hula - Monty Harper
Give A Little Bit - Supertramp
Five Monsters In My Family - ScribbleMonster
Do The Turnout - Deedle Deedle Dees
Tuesday, March 08, 2011
Ben's Playlist - Wednesday, March 9, 2011
Willy Won't - Debbie and Friends
Seven - They Might Be Giants
Promise of a New Day - Paula Abdul
Opposite Day - Secret Agent 23 Skidoo
The King Of Calibar - Bill Harley
Say It Loudly - The Not-Its!
I Have A Little Dreidel - GrooveBarbers
I Can't Let Go - The Hollies
Dreamer - Supertramp
At the Timeshare - The LeeVees
Seven - They Might Be Giants
Promise of a New Day - Paula Abdul
Opposite Day - Secret Agent 23 Skidoo
The King Of Calibar - Bill Harley
Say It Loudly - The Not-Its!
I Have A Little Dreidel - GrooveBarbers
I Can't Let Go - The Hollies
Dreamer - Supertramp
At the Timeshare - The LeeVees
Monday, March 07, 2011
Ben's Playlist - Tuesday, March 8, 2011
All The Animals - Joanie Leeds & The Nightlights
Bicycle - Frances England
Muppets/Mahna Mahna - Primate Fiasco
Birds - The Submarines
Man On The Moon - R.E.M.
Look Through Any Window - The Hollies
Tube Sox - Princess Katie and Racer Steve
Things Behind the Sun - Nick Drake
Down To Earth - Peter Gabriel
Bicycle - Frances England
Muppets/Mahna Mahna - Primate Fiasco
Birds - The Submarines
Man On The Moon - R.E.M.
Look Through Any Window - The Hollies
Tube Sox - Princess Katie and Racer Steve
Things Behind the Sun - Nick Drake
Down To Earth - Peter Gabriel
Sunday, March 06, 2011
Ben's Playlist - Monday, March 7, 2011
What Is An Animal? - Marais & Miranda
California Gurls - Katy Perry
Li'l Things - Strange Kidz
Cows - The Suburbs
I Shall Sing - Grenadilla
Popcorn Tree - Music For Aardvarks Presents David Weinstone
Mexican Hat Dance - Herb Alpert & the Tijuana Brass
Neighbors - Okee-Dokee Brothers
Wind It Up - Gwen Stefani
Moonshot - Roy Handy & the Moonshot
Everyone Everywhere - Baze And His Silly Friends
California Gurls - Katy Perry
Li'l Things - Strange Kidz
Cows - The Suburbs
I Shall Sing - Grenadilla
Popcorn Tree - Music For Aardvarks Presents David Weinstone
Mexican Hat Dance - Herb Alpert & the Tijuana Brass
Neighbors - Okee-Dokee Brothers
Wind It Up - Gwen Stefani
Moonshot - Roy Handy & the Moonshot
Everyone Everywhere - Baze And His Silly Friends
Friday, March 04, 2011
Music For the Whole Mishpocha
Mama Doni Band Rocks the Sabbath
Whenever I think "jewish music," the two things that come to mind are klezmer and liturgical. Neither one does anything for me.
For the past few years, New Jersey's Mama Doni (a.k.a Doni Zasloff Thomas) has added a dance beat to jewish children's music. Her group, the Mama Doni Band, has played hundreds of shows across the country sharing semetic songs and hebrew-slated highlights.
March 22 marks the release of their newest "challah-day" album, Shabbat Shaboom, with 40-plus minutes of ethnic music with a positive flavor.
Like their previous CD, "Chanukah Fever," the new release presents a selection of songs based around a secular concept. In this case, "Shabbat Shaboom" comments on all things related to Friday night services - going to the temple ("Synagoguersize"), saying the prayers ("The Sabbath Queen"), and having a chicken dinner with your family ("Chicken A La Tango").
From a 2007 start as the music teacher for her children's preschool, Doni has expanded into a full-fledged frontperson for a traveling band of Jewish minstrels, performing at JCCs and temples from coast to coast. I stumbled across the band on a clip from E! Television's "The Soup," technically a credit to boast about - even if the band is overshadowed by the antics of the morning show hosts on the program where they were performing.
But you can't go wrong on any children's CD where the lead singer befriends a chicken meant for the family dinner. Doni also tackles candle-lighting, families ("My Mishpocha"), and ends the disc with traditional blessings. Children will come for the music and stay for the message. As the Jews would say, that's a mitzvah.
Whenever I think "jewish music," the two things that come to mind are klezmer and liturgical. Neither one does anything for me.
For the past few years, New Jersey's Mama Doni (a.k.a Doni Zasloff Thomas) has added a dance beat to jewish children's music. Her group, the Mama Doni Band, has played hundreds of shows across the country sharing semetic songs and hebrew-slated highlights.
March 22 marks the release of their newest "challah-day" album, Shabbat Shaboom, with 40-plus minutes of ethnic music with a positive flavor.
Like their previous CD, "Chanukah Fever," the new release presents a selection of songs based around a secular concept. In this case, "Shabbat Shaboom" comments on all things related to Friday night services - going to the temple ("Synagoguersize"), saying the prayers ("The Sabbath Queen"), and having a chicken dinner with your family ("Chicken A La Tango").
From a 2007 start as the music teacher for her children's preschool, Doni has expanded into a full-fledged frontperson for a traveling band of Jewish minstrels, performing at JCCs and temples from coast to coast. I stumbled across the band on a clip from E! Television's "The Soup," technically a credit to boast about - even if the band is overshadowed by the antics of the morning show hosts on the program where they were performing.
But you can't go wrong on any children's CD where the lead singer befriends a chicken meant for the family dinner. Doni also tackles candle-lighting, families ("My Mishpocha"), and ends the disc with traditional blessings. Children will come for the music and stay for the message. As the Jews would say, that's a mitzvah.
Thursday, March 03, 2011
Ben's Playlist - Friday, March 4, 2011
One Of Us - Joan Osborne
Battleship Chains - Hindu Love Gods
Colors - John & Mark
Summertime - Ella Fitzgerald
Song of the Passaic - Fountains of Wayne
TiK ToK - Ke$ha
Get Me Out Of Here - Bill Harley
Dog Days Are Over - Florence And The Machine
Battleship Chains - Hindu Love Gods
Colors - John & Mark
Summertime - Ella Fitzgerald
Song of the Passaic - Fountains of Wayne
TiK ToK - Ke$ha
Get Me Out Of Here - Bill Harley
Dog Days Are Over - Florence And The Machine
Wednesday, March 02, 2011
Ben's Playlist - Thursday, March 3, 2011
Only Girl (In The World) - Rihanna
Doing It Right - The Go! Team
De Colores - Pete Seeger
I Wanna Be An Action Figure - Daddy A Go Go
Oh My Heart - R.E.M.
Somebody To Love - Justin Bieber
Octopus - Artichoke
Everything's Controlled By the Brain - Doc Dauer
I Want to Hold Your Ear - ScribbleMonster
More Cowbell - Joanie Leeds & The Nightlights
You Have A Heart - Readeez
Doing It Right - The Go! Team
De Colores - Pete Seeger
I Wanna Be An Action Figure - Daddy A Go Go
Oh My Heart - R.E.M.
Somebody To Love - Justin Bieber
Octopus - Artichoke
Everything's Controlled By the Brain - Doc Dauer
I Want to Hold Your Ear - ScribbleMonster
More Cowbell - Joanie Leeds & The Nightlights
You Have A Heart - Readeez
Tuesday, March 01, 2011
Ben's Playlist - Wednesday, March 2, 2011
The Time (The Dirty Bit) - Black Eyed Peas
Birds Fly Away - Theresa Andersson
Halo / Walking On Sunshine - Glee
K-I-D-S - Luv Clowns
Hey Hey Hey - Michael Franti & Spearhead
Muffin Man - Ella Fitzgerald
All Around the Kitchen - Pete Seeger
High Hopes - Primate Fiasco
Baby's Getting Up - Casper Babypants
Wimoweh - Joanie Leeds & The Nightlights
Summer Holiday - Chris Isaak
Birds Fly Away - Theresa Andersson
Halo / Walking On Sunshine - Glee
K-I-D-S - Luv Clowns
Hey Hey Hey - Michael Franti & Spearhead
Muffin Man - Ella Fitzgerald
All Around the Kitchen - Pete Seeger
High Hopes - Primate Fiasco
Baby's Getting Up - Casper Babypants
Wimoweh - Joanie Leeds & The Nightlights
Summer Holiday - Chris Isaak
Monday, February 28, 2011
Ben's Playlist - Tuesday, March 1, 2011
Unicorn - Dr. Dog
I Like It That Way - Sweet Honey in the Rock
Some More S'mores - Charity and the JAMband
My Heart Skips a Beat - The Secret Sisters
Boom Boom Pow - The Black Eyed Peas
Big Rock Candy Mountain - The Boogers
Baby Kangaroo - Joe McDermott
Just Happy To Be Me - ScribbleMonster
Growl Growl - Deedle Deedle Dees
Rock Lobster - Billy Kelly
I Like It That Way - Sweet Honey in the Rock
Some More S'mores - Charity and the JAMband
My Heart Skips a Beat - The Secret Sisters
Boom Boom Pow - The Black Eyed Peas
Big Rock Candy Mountain - The Boogers
Baby Kangaroo - Joe McDermott
Just Happy To Be Me - ScribbleMonster
Growl Growl - Deedle Deedle Dees
Rock Lobster - Billy Kelly
Sunday, February 27, 2011
Ben's Playlist - Monday, February 28, 2011
Hello Hello (Good Morning) - Dustin Type
I Might Be Lying - Steve Weeks
Hang On - Weezer
Big Blue Whale - Joanie Leeds & The Nightlights
Bochicha - Dom
A Fire Burns For Freedom - Ziggy Marley
Twistification - Dog on Fleas
Sunday Morning - GMG Jam
Do The Turnout - Deedle Deedle Dees
It's Close Enough - Billy Kelly
I Might Be Lying - Steve Weeks
Hang On - Weezer
Big Blue Whale - Joanie Leeds & The Nightlights
Bochicha - Dom
A Fire Burns For Freedom - Ziggy Marley
Twistification - Dog on Fleas
Sunday Morning - GMG Jam
Do The Turnout - Deedle Deedle Dees
It's Close Enough - Billy Kelly
Saturday, February 26, 2011
My Take on Charlie Sheen v Chuck Lorre and CBS
Let’s set the record straight as far as TWO AND HALF MEN and CBS goes.
TWO AND A HALF MEN premiered on Monday nights in the 2003-2004 season, following the top ten hit, EVERYBODY LOVES RAYMOND.
To make room for the new show, CBS moved Ted Danson’s BECKER to Wednesday nights. They could have easily just programmed Sheen’s show for that night – and effectively killed it. Instead, they gave it the BEST slot and instantly made it a top 15 series. Left to stand alone, BECKER died.
Two seasons later, RAYMOND went away – and CBS moved 2 1/2 MEN into the 9 pm drivers seat. They could have shifted KING OF QUEENS to 9 pm and moved 2 1/2 MEN elsewhere on the schedule. But they had the confidence that the show – which had outdrawn RAYMOND in its final year – could drive the night. And they were correct. But once again, CBS could have used the show to “drive” another night, and possibly killed it. They didn’t.
So CBS has basically coddled the series and everybody made a mint, from Charles Levine (Chuck Lorre) down to Carlos Estevez (Charlie Sheen).
And let's not forget that at the time TWO AND A HALF MEN was conceived, John Cryer was seen as TV poison after four flops (FAMOUS TEDDY Z, PARTNERS, GETTING PERSONAL, and THE TROUBLE WITH NORMAL). Sheen was a B level movie star with two seasons carrying Michael J. Fox's jock on SPIN CITY as his only success in TV. Chuck Lorre, coming off DHARMA AND GREG, was the force behind the show.
If Charlie Sheen is so confident of his drawing power as a sitcom star, he should sign a waiver and let ABC build a new show around him and debut it next September in the Monday 9 pm slot, against a rebuilt 2 1/2 MEN featuring Scott Baio as Charlie Harper, back from Paris with some minor plastic surgery. Anybody want to take bets on the ratings outcome? I didn’t think so.
TWO AND A HALF MEN premiered on Monday nights in the 2003-2004 season, following the top ten hit, EVERYBODY LOVES RAYMOND.
To make room for the new show, CBS moved Ted Danson’s BECKER to Wednesday nights. They could have easily just programmed Sheen’s show for that night – and effectively killed it. Instead, they gave it the BEST slot and instantly made it a top 15 series. Left to stand alone, BECKER died.
Two seasons later, RAYMOND went away – and CBS moved 2 1/2 MEN into the 9 pm drivers seat. They could have shifted KING OF QUEENS to 9 pm and moved 2 1/2 MEN elsewhere on the schedule. But they had the confidence that the show – which had outdrawn RAYMOND in its final year – could drive the night. And they were correct. But once again, CBS could have used the show to “drive” another night, and possibly killed it. They didn’t.
So CBS has basically coddled the series and everybody made a mint, from Charles Levine (Chuck Lorre) down to Carlos Estevez (Charlie Sheen).
And let's not forget that at the time TWO AND A HALF MEN was conceived, John Cryer was seen as TV poison after four flops (FAMOUS TEDDY Z, PARTNERS, GETTING PERSONAL, and THE TROUBLE WITH NORMAL). Sheen was a B level movie star with two seasons carrying Michael J. Fox's jock on SPIN CITY as his only success in TV. Chuck Lorre, coming off DHARMA AND GREG, was the force behind the show.
If Charlie Sheen is so confident of his drawing power as a sitcom star, he should sign a waiver and let ABC build a new show around him and debut it next September in the Monday 9 pm slot, against a rebuilt 2 1/2 MEN featuring Scott Baio as Charlie Harper, back from Paris with some minor plastic surgery. Anybody want to take bets on the ratings outcome? I didn’t think so.
Thursday, February 24, 2011
Ben's Playlist - Friday, February 25, 2011
In My Room - Beach Boys
Shake It - Michael Franti & Spearhead Feat. Lady Saw
Because I Said So - Keller Williams
Real Gone - Sheryl Crow
Jewish Cowgirl [Remix] - The Mama Doni Band
Froggie Went A Coutrin' (Featuring Secret Agent 23 Skidoo) - Joanie Leeds & The Nightlights
Scootdootdoodlydoo - Billy Kelly
Chag_Purim - Purim Jews
Big Kite - Flannery Brothers
Blueberry Pie - Dog on Fleas
Be Thankful For What You Got - Yo La Tengo
Shake It - Michael Franti & Spearhead Feat. Lady Saw
Because I Said So - Keller Williams
Real Gone - Sheryl Crow
Jewish Cowgirl [Remix] - The Mama Doni Band
Froggie Went A Coutrin' (Featuring Secret Agent 23 Skidoo) - Joanie Leeds & The Nightlights
Scootdootdoodlydoo - Billy Kelly
Chag_Purim - Purim Jews
Big Kite - Flannery Brothers
Blueberry Pie - Dog on Fleas
Be Thankful For What You Got - Yo La Tengo
Wednesday, February 23, 2011
Ben's Playlist - Thursday, February 24, 2011
Shabbat Shaboom - The Mama Doni Band
All The Animals - Joanie Leeds & The Nightlights
We Could Be Pen Pals (w/Molly Ledford) - Billy Kelly
People Take Pictures of Each Other - The Kinks
Be Yourself - Grenadilla
Home - David Tobocman
Nothin' For Christmas - The Jimmies
Hi 5 Dance - Flannery Brothers
Hey Ya - Booker T
Have You Ever - Brandi Carlile
When I Ripped My Pants - Spongebob Squarepants
Matt is three months old today!
All The Animals - Joanie Leeds & The Nightlights
We Could Be Pen Pals (w/Molly Ledford) - Billy Kelly
People Take Pictures of Each Other - The Kinks
Be Yourself - Grenadilla
Home - David Tobocman
Nothin' For Christmas - The Jimmies
Hi 5 Dance - Flannery Brothers
Hey Ya - Booker T
Have You Ever - Brandi Carlile
When I Ripped My Pants - Spongebob Squarepants
Matt is three months old today!
Tuesday, February 22, 2011
Ben's Playlist - Wednesday, February 23, 2011
What Is An Animal? - Marais & Miranda
The Thing That Helps Me Get Through - Michael Franti & Spearhead
Arabella Angelique - Grenadilla
Rich Girl - Gwen Stefani & Eve
The Channukah Medley - Gwendolyn and the Goodtime Gang
Do The Turnout - Deedle Deedle Dees
California - Luna
Mule Train - Frankie Laine
Down To Earth - Peter Gabriel
Starman - Golden Smog
The Thing That Helps Me Get Through - Michael Franti & Spearhead
Arabella Angelique - Grenadilla
Rich Girl - Gwen Stefani & Eve
The Channukah Medley - Gwendolyn and the Goodtime Gang
Do The Turnout - Deedle Deedle Dees
California - Luna
Mule Train - Frankie Laine
Down To Earth - Peter Gabriel
Starman - Golden Smog
Monday, February 21, 2011
Ben's Playlist - Tuesday, February 22, 2011
Wonder of Birds - Innocence Mission
Poker Face (Glee Cast) (Feat. Idina Menzel) - Glee
Cocoanut Candy - Didi Pop
Sunglasses - Recess Monkey
Everybody's Got Their Underwear On - Billy Kelly
Me & My Invisible Friend - Ralph's World
Chanukah, Oh Hanukkah, Oh Hanuka - The Jimmies
Purple - Laura Freeman
Shpilkas - Bunny Clogs
Burn It To The Ground - Nickelback
Poker Face (Glee Cast) (Feat. Idina Menzel) - Glee
Cocoanut Candy - Didi Pop
Sunglasses - Recess Monkey
Everybody's Got Their Underwear On - Billy Kelly
Me & My Invisible Friend - Ralph's World
Chanukah, Oh Hanukkah, Oh Hanuka - The Jimmies
Purple - Laura Freeman
Shpilkas - Bunny Clogs
Burn It To The Ground - Nickelback
Sunday, February 20, 2011
Ben's Playlist - Monday, February 21, 2011
Snack Time - RTTs
One Nation Under a Groove - Funkadelic
Mister Rabbit - Casper Babypants
Air Guitar - Monkey Monkey Music
Don't I Fit In My Daddy's Shoes? - Sarah Lee Guthrie
Brimful of Asha - Cornershop
Ruling Me - Weezer
Bat Bada Bing - Cat & A Bird
How Do You Spell Chunnukkahh? - The LeeVees
One Nation Under a Groove - Funkadelic
Mister Rabbit - Casper Babypants
Air Guitar - Monkey Monkey Music
Don't I Fit In My Daddy's Shoes? - Sarah Lee Guthrie
Brimful of Asha - Cornershop
Ruling Me - Weezer
Bat Bada Bing - Cat & A Bird
How Do You Spell Chunnukkahh? - The LeeVees
Friday, February 18, 2011
A Gold Star for Yellowgold
Fourth Collection Is A Charmer
I heard the Pink Panther theme first, then became familiar with the cartoons, which came later. Next came a generation of children who knew all about the cartoons, but had no clue that the famous Henry Mancini theme was originally for a series of movies. We came full-circle when I played the track for Ben, who began to choose it for his playlists back in 2005-2006.
This is all prologue. In the same time period, the Spare the Rock childrens' music program (and podcast) started playing the songs of Gustafer Yellowgold by Morgan Taylor. When we learned that Morgan would be performing a Gustafer set at the nearby Museum of the Moving Image, we made a point of going. We arrived early, walked in, and found the auditorium was playing...Pink Panther cartoons. Ben looked at us, stunned, as if to say, "You mean the music is for this?"
Many of the musical selections that Ben chose from those days have faded away - he either grew out of them, or they just didn't strike his fancy anymore. But Gustafer has stayed with us. And grown on us. And now Morgan has released the fourth CD/DVD collection, "Infinity Sock," and it's still as charming (and yellow) as the Pink Panther (is pink).
After that AMMI performance, we retreated to the snack bar. Ben kept looking over my shoulder and when I turned around, I saw that he was watching Morgan having a snack of his own. I couldn't help but approach him as we left, to compliment him on the imagery and music, which I did find unique in the world of childrens' entertainment that we were just beginning to explore. My one concern was the seeming lack of a cohesive story. Yes, Gustafer was a concert experience. But at that time, every song seemed to introduce a new element. And then the show just stopped. A last song and thanks for coming. "Yes, I'm working on that," Morgan told me. And indeed he has.
"Infinity Sock" tells the tale of Gustafer, a denizen from our Sun, who now lives in Minnesota with his pet eel. While doing laundry, Gustafer discovers that one of his eel's socks seems to stretch for eternity. In searching for the toe-end of the longest sock in the universe, Gustafer encounters a number of characters and situations.
We were all sucked in by the simple melodies and lyrics. I even copied "Infinity" into my playlist for commuting. Morgan's style for Gustafer songs harkens back to the styles of David Gates and James Taylor. Hope the reference to the former doesn't come off as an insult.
And while we've been hearing the songs since 2005, it's been some time since we sat down and watched more than one video. After watching the DVD in one sitting (not a problem if you have 35 minutes), the story was easy to follow (except perhaps for our three-month-old). And with the lyrics right on screen, it was hard not to sing along.
Bonus features (on the DVD) include Morgan giving a guitar lesson on how to play certain Gustafer songs, as well as how to draw Gustafer. There is also a tongue in cheek "science report" on whether or not Gustafer Yellowgold actually exists, hosted by Professor Orel Harnkess from the Huckaku Verification Center in St. Paul, Minnesota.
What comes around, goes around. It was true for the Pink Panther and it's true again for Gustafer Yellowgold. A few years down the road, perhaps for the next collection, we'll be ready to hit the road with both kids and attend another song performance - one with a full story and a batch of songs we know and are ready to sing. "Infinity Sock" leaves me hoping there are more Gustafer stories that Morgan wants to tell.
I heard the Pink Panther theme first, then became familiar with the cartoons, which came later. Next came a generation of children who knew all about the cartoons, but had no clue that the famous Henry Mancini theme was originally for a series of movies. We came full-circle when I played the track for Ben, who began to choose it for his playlists back in 2005-2006.
This is all prologue. In the same time period, the Spare the Rock childrens' music program (and podcast) started playing the songs of Gustafer Yellowgold by Morgan Taylor. When we learned that Morgan would be performing a Gustafer set at the nearby Museum of the Moving Image, we made a point of going. We arrived early, walked in, and found the auditorium was playing...Pink Panther cartoons. Ben looked at us, stunned, as if to say, "You mean the music is for this?"
Many of the musical selections that Ben chose from those days have faded away - he either grew out of them, or they just didn't strike his fancy anymore. But Gustafer has stayed with us. And grown on us. And now Morgan has released the fourth CD/DVD collection, "Infinity Sock," and it's still as charming (and yellow) as the Pink Panther (is pink).
After that AMMI performance, we retreated to the snack bar. Ben kept looking over my shoulder and when I turned around, I saw that he was watching Morgan having a snack of his own. I couldn't help but approach him as we left, to compliment him on the imagery and music, which I did find unique in the world of childrens' entertainment that we were just beginning to explore. My one concern was the seeming lack of a cohesive story. Yes, Gustafer was a concert experience. But at that time, every song seemed to introduce a new element. And then the show just stopped. A last song and thanks for coming. "Yes, I'm working on that," Morgan told me. And indeed he has.
"Infinity Sock" tells the tale of Gustafer, a denizen from our Sun, who now lives in Minnesota with his pet eel. While doing laundry, Gustafer discovers that one of his eel's socks seems to stretch for eternity. In searching for the toe-end of the longest sock in the universe, Gustafer encounters a number of characters and situations.
We were all sucked in by the simple melodies and lyrics. I even copied "Infinity" into my playlist for commuting. Morgan's style for Gustafer songs harkens back to the styles of David Gates and James Taylor. Hope the reference to the former doesn't come off as an insult.
And while we've been hearing the songs since 2005, it's been some time since we sat down and watched more than one video. After watching the DVD in one sitting (not a problem if you have 35 minutes), the story was easy to follow (except perhaps for our three-month-old). And with the lyrics right on screen, it was hard not to sing along.
Bonus features (on the DVD) include Morgan giving a guitar lesson on how to play certain Gustafer songs, as well as how to draw Gustafer. There is also a tongue in cheek "science report" on whether or not Gustafer Yellowgold actually exists, hosted by Professor Orel Harnkess from the Huckaku Verification Center in St. Paul, Minnesota.
What comes around, goes around. It was true for the Pink Panther and it's true again for Gustafer Yellowgold. A few years down the road, perhaps for the next collection, we'll be ready to hit the road with both kids and attend another song performance - one with a full story and a batch of songs we know and are ready to sing. "Infinity Sock" leaves me hoping there are more Gustafer stories that Morgan wants to tell.
Thursday, February 17, 2011
Ben's Playlist - Friday, February 18, 2011
Snowflake, Snowflake - Tom Glazer
We Go Duck - Justin Roberts
When Life Gives Me Lemons - The Boy Least Likely To
Bluegrass for Breakfast - Okee-Dokee Brothers
Tiny Cool - Princess Katie and Racer Steve
Mule Train - Frankie Laine
Bohemian Rhapsody - Glee
First Dance (Feat. Usher) - Justin Bieber
You be You - Butterflyfish
We Go Duck - Justin Roberts
When Life Gives Me Lemons - The Boy Least Likely To
Bluegrass for Breakfast - Okee-Dokee Brothers
Tiny Cool - Princess Katie and Racer Steve
Mule Train - Frankie Laine
Bohemian Rhapsody - Glee
First Dance (Feat. Usher) - Justin Bieber
You be You - Butterflyfish
Wednesday, February 16, 2011
Ben's Playlist - Thursday, February 17, 2011
Sway (Glee Cast Version) - Glee
Send Me On My Way - Rusted Root
One Wasn't Enough - Flannery Brothers
Brand New Haircut - Billy Kelly
Cookies & Milk - Royal Order of Chords and Keys
This Old Man - Lucky Diaz
Superball - Magic Kids
The Cat Came Back - Monty Harper
I Wish I Was A Mole In the Ground - The Boogers
Banana Pancakes - Jack Johnson
Send Me On My Way - Rusted Root
One Wasn't Enough - Flannery Brothers
Brand New Haircut - Billy Kelly
Cookies & Milk - Royal Order of Chords and Keys
This Old Man - Lucky Diaz
Superball - Magic Kids
The Cat Came Back - Monty Harper
I Wish I Was A Mole In the Ground - The Boogers
Banana Pancakes - Jack Johnson
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
Ben's Playlist - Wednesday, February 16, 2011
Gravity - John Mayer
TV - Music For Aardvarks Presents David Weinstone
Sesame Street Theme - ScribbleMonster
The Impression That I Get - Mighty Mighty Bosstones
Roundy Round - Monty Harper
Candlelight - Maccabeats
Strawberry Jam - Michelle Shocked
Muppets/Mahna Mahna - Primate Fiasco
My Funny Valentine - Ella Fitzgerald
TV - Music For Aardvarks Presents David Weinstone
Sesame Street Theme - ScribbleMonster
The Impression That I Get - Mighty Mighty Bosstones
Roundy Round - Monty Harper
Candlelight - Maccabeats
Strawberry Jam - Michelle Shocked
Muppets/Mahna Mahna - Primate Fiasco
My Funny Valentine - Ella Fitzgerald
Monday, February 14, 2011
Ben's Playlist - Tuesday, February 15, 2011
Sing About the Sun - Dog on Fleas
Gelt Melts - The LeeVees
Hey, Soul Sister - Glee
You've Got a Friend In me - Bonerama
Muriel's Hoof - Soft Boys
Spiders in My Breakfast - Harmonica Pocket
Sound of Sunshine - Michael Franti & Spearhead
Nonagon - They Might Be Giants
Rich Girl - Gwen Stefani & Eve
Popcorn Tree - Music For Aardvarks Presents David Weinstone
Gelt Melts - The LeeVees
Hey, Soul Sister - Glee
You've Got a Friend In me - Bonerama
Muriel's Hoof - Soft Boys
Spiders in My Breakfast - Harmonica Pocket
Sound of Sunshine - Michael Franti & Spearhead
Nonagon - They Might Be Giants
Rich Girl - Gwen Stefani & Eve
Popcorn Tree - Music For Aardvarks Presents David Weinstone
Sunday, February 13, 2011
Ben's Playlist - Monday, February 14, 2011
Poker Face (Glee Cast) (Feat. Idina Menzel) - Glee
No New Tale to Tell - Love and Rockets
We Go Duck - Justin Roberts
Just the Way You Are - Bruno Mars
What The Hell - Avril Lavigne
Mighty Milo - Music For Aardvarks Presents David Weinstone
Everybody's Got Their Underwear On - Billy Kelly
Draw - Luv Clowns
What A Wonderful World - Louis Armstrong
Blueberry Pie - Dog on Fleas
No New Tale to Tell - Love and Rockets
We Go Duck - Justin Roberts
Just the Way You Are - Bruno Mars
What The Hell - Avril Lavigne
Mighty Milo - Music For Aardvarks Presents David Weinstone
Everybody's Got Their Underwear On - Billy Kelly
Draw - Luv Clowns
What A Wonderful World - Louis Armstrong
Blueberry Pie - Dog on Fleas
Friday, February 11, 2011
How Exactly Does An Aardvark Sound?
David Weinstone Explores Childrens Music
Not another punk rocker turned exceptional childrens musician! Boy did people hate hate hate punk rock when I was in college (let's not think of the years). After most of the music from that era has faded, you wonder what happened to many of the players. Not in a "Behind the Music" kind of way. In a "what are they doing musically" kind of way.
Enough prologue. David Weinstone grew up. And devolved back to his childhood, with Music for Aardvarks & Other Mammals. Their newest release, All I Want! is coming in March to many fine music outlets.
Since we somehow managed to move past Nick Jr. without viewing his music videos, our exposure to Weinstone comes from a fresh perspective. Ben liked "Better Keep An Eye on Me," with the phone-mentioning verse:
I like cell phones, they taste good
They're expensive; man they should
I can't climb but I love stairs
I think you better bet, I'm doin' something somewhere
And I know that "Beach Song" is a simple ditty about, well, the beach, the acoustic guitar track felt reminiscent of the Beatles' "Norwegian Wood."
Weinstone gained popularity through his "Music for Aardvark" classes for children. As should be expected, anything good for kids gains a reputation, following, and rocket blast of respectability. More than 10 years later, parents like Helen Hunt, Jon Stewart, and others swear by his rollicking music and easy to sing lyrics.
"All I Want" continues in that vein. You've got country ("Fishin' Song") and bluegress ("Count to 10"). Psychedelia? "TV" goes there. Rock is covered (the title track). Imagination building? Try "Pop Corn Tree." And Woody Guthrie's "I Want A Puppy!" gets to kick-start Weinstone's 16 (SIXTEENTH!!!) CD.
Nothing lasts forever. And 15 years is a long time. Hopefully Weinstone will stick around for a few more years, when Matt is ready to attend one of his classes. Music for Aardvarks prevails, thankfully for other mammals like us.
Not another punk rocker turned exceptional childrens musician! Boy did people hate hate hate punk rock when I was in college (let's not think of the years). After most of the music from that era has faded, you wonder what happened to many of the players. Not in a "Behind the Music" kind of way. In a "what are they doing musically" kind of way.
Enough prologue. David Weinstone grew up. And devolved back to his childhood, with Music for Aardvarks & Other Mammals. Their newest release, All I Want! is coming in March to many fine music outlets.
Since we somehow managed to move past Nick Jr. without viewing his music videos, our exposure to Weinstone comes from a fresh perspective. Ben liked "Better Keep An Eye on Me," with the phone-mentioning verse:
I like cell phones, they taste good
They're expensive; man they should
I can't climb but I love stairs
I think you better bet, I'm doin' something somewhere
And I know that "Beach Song" is a simple ditty about, well, the beach, the acoustic guitar track felt reminiscent of the Beatles' "Norwegian Wood."
Weinstone gained popularity through his "Music for Aardvark" classes for children. As should be expected, anything good for kids gains a reputation, following, and rocket blast of respectability. More than 10 years later, parents like Helen Hunt, Jon Stewart, and others swear by his rollicking music and easy to sing lyrics.
"All I Want" continues in that vein. You've got country ("Fishin' Song") and bluegress ("Count to 10"). Psychedelia? "TV" goes there. Rock is covered (the title track). Imagination building? Try "Pop Corn Tree." And Woody Guthrie's "I Want A Puppy!" gets to kick-start Weinstone's 16 (SIXTEENTH!!!) CD.
Nothing lasts forever. And 15 years is a long time. Hopefully Weinstone will stick around for a few more years, when Matt is ready to attend one of his classes. Music for Aardvarks prevails, thankfully for other mammals like us.
Thursday, February 10, 2011
Ben's Playlist - Friday, February 11, 2011
Hey, Soul Sister - Glee
Yonder Comes a Freight Train - Laura Cantrell
Brave New World - Weezer
We R Who We R - Ke$ha
Be Part of the Band - The Verve Pipe
Real Gone - Sheryl Crow
Dandelion - Steve Weeks
The Little Old Lady - Jan and Dean
Sabotage - Beastie Boys
Big Rock Candy Mountain - The Boogers
Yonder Comes a Freight Train - Laura Cantrell
Brave New World - Weezer
We R Who We R - Ke$ha
Be Part of the Band - The Verve Pipe
Real Gone - Sheryl Crow
Dandelion - Steve Weeks
The Little Old Lady - Jan and Dean
Sabotage - Beastie Boys
Big Rock Candy Mountain - The Boogers
Wednesday, February 09, 2011
Ben's Playlist - Thursday, February 10, 2011
Sway (Glee Cast Version) - Glee
Send Me On My Way - Rusted Root
Hi 5 Dance - Flannery Brothers
I Love My Library - Lunch Money
Baseball Dreams - Ralph's World
Sand In My Sandwich - Princess Katie and Racer Steve
Jealous Guy - John Lennon
I Have A Little Dreidel - GrooveBarbers
Five Monsters In My Family - ScribbleMonster
Strawberry Jam - Michelle Shocked
Send Me On My Way - Rusted Root
Hi 5 Dance - Flannery Brothers
I Love My Library - Lunch Money
Baseball Dreams - Ralph's World
Sand In My Sandwich - Princess Katie and Racer Steve
Jealous Guy - John Lennon
I Have A Little Dreidel - GrooveBarbers
Five Monsters In My Family - ScribbleMonster
Strawberry Jam - Michelle Shocked
Tuesday, February 08, 2011
Ben's Playlist - Wednesday, February 9, 2011
Comfortable - John Mayer
Sweetest Song of All - Mel Glazer
Your House - Dre Towey
Jump Up and Down - Flannery Brothers
Brand New Haircut - Billy Kelly
Sanford and Son - Quincy Jones
Don't Squish That Bug - Bramble Jam
Imitation Of Life - R.E.M.
Halo / Walking On Sunshine - Glee Cast
Somebody To Love - Justin Bieber
Sweetest Song of All - Mel Glazer
Your House - Dre Towey
Jump Up and Down - Flannery Brothers
Brand New Haircut - Billy Kelly
Sanford and Son - Quincy Jones
Don't Squish That Bug - Bramble Jam
Imitation Of Life - R.E.M.
Halo / Walking On Sunshine - Glee Cast
Somebody To Love - Justin Bieber
Monday, February 07, 2011
Ben's Playlist - Tuesday, February 8, 2011
I Still Believe - Frank Turner
Say, Say, Oh Playmate - April Smith & The Great
I'm On My Way - Bill Harley
Count Me In - Trout Fishing in America
Dr. Worm - Jason Trachenburg
Shake! - Flannery Brothers
Arabella Angelique - Grenadilla
I've Just Gotta Get A Message To You - The Bee Gees
No One Said It Would Be Easy - Cloud Cult
I Go Swimming - Peter Gabriel
Check It Out - Casper Babypants
Say, Say, Oh Playmate - April Smith & The Great
I'm On My Way - Bill Harley
Count Me In - Trout Fishing in America
Dr. Worm - Jason Trachenburg
Shake! - Flannery Brothers
Arabella Angelique - Grenadilla
I've Just Gotta Get A Message To You - The Bee Gees
No One Said It Would Be Easy - Cloud Cult
I Go Swimming - Peter Gabriel
Check It Out - Casper Babypants
Sunday, February 06, 2011
Ben's Playlist - Monday, February 7, 2011
Chanukah Fever - Mama Doni
Shake It - Michael Franti & Spearhead Feat. Lady Saw
Hello There - Cheap Trick
What's Your Name? - Meredith Brooks
Home - Dreyer Family Band
The Rockford Files - Mike Post
Art Car - The Hipwaders
How Do You Spell Chunnukkahh? - The LeeVees
Sing The Changes - Paul McCartney
Is It Chanukah or Hannukah? - Ruby and Ava Lockner
Rancher Ants - Deedle Deedle Dees
Shake It - Michael Franti & Spearhead Feat. Lady Saw
Hello There - Cheap Trick
What's Your Name? - Meredith Brooks
Home - Dreyer Family Band
The Rockford Files - Mike Post
Art Car - The Hipwaders
How Do You Spell Chunnukkahh? - The LeeVees
Sing The Changes - Paul McCartney
Is It Chanukah or Hannukah? - Ruby and Ava Lockner
Rancher Ants - Deedle Deedle Dees
Friday, February 04, 2011
Buy A CD, Rescue An Animal
Jamie Broza's New Kids CD Is No Dog
I spent many enjoyable afternoons in Manhattan theaters as a child, seeing shows that (sometimes) went way above my head. We've taken Ben to exactly ONE Broadway production (Shrek the Musical), which he loved. We'll take him back, but that's another story.
People find their way to Broadway in numerous ways. Jamie Broza was literally born into it - his father, Elliot Lawrence was a musical director. The influence is obvious on his new childrens CD, "I Want A Dog."
His first childrens' album in five years, tracks on "I Want A Dog" sound like they're drawn directly from musical theater. More precisely, a latin-themed production for kids - especially tracks like "Guatemala," featuring Broza's brother, David Broza. David is an Israeli superstar and sings in Spanish and plays classical guitar on the track.
I'll want to see how Ben reacts to the song, "New School." Although he is now happily settled at his current elementary school, he spent a difficult four-year period hopping from location to location. And as for "Birthday Parties Always End in Tears," while Ben has not cried at his own party, we'll seen plenty of breakdowns at these over-amped festivities. I'm nervous that we'll wind up playing "The No Game" with Ben after he hears that track. As it is, he hears a parade of "no" answers, sans music. Older kids will figure out what happened to the cat in "Where's Charlie" long before the "surprise ending." As for "Sisters," although my wife might choke up (with three older sisters), there's enough of an age difference of 20+ years that tempers any devastating mood swings.
Broza's first CD for children, “Bad Mood Mom and other Good Mood Songs,” made the Parents’ Choice Foundation’s list of the top 25 children’s CDs in the last 25 years. His follow-up CD, “My Daddy Is Scratchy” also won a Parents’ Choice Silver award as well as a NAPPA Gold award. He and his dad, Elliot Lawrence teamed up and co-wrote two musicals with Stan Berenstain, “The Berenstain Bears Save Christmas” and “The Berenstain Bears Onstage” which toured all over the United States.
Broza and his family rescued a dog, Dusty, from the North Shore Animal League and credit him as the inspiration for the new CD. In gratitude, he is donating 20 percent of the profits from this album to the organization, and hope it encourages others to adopt rescue animals. You could do worse for your family - musically or pet-wise.
I spent many enjoyable afternoons in Manhattan theaters as a child, seeing shows that (sometimes) went way above my head. We've taken Ben to exactly ONE Broadway production (Shrek the Musical), which he loved. We'll take him back, but that's another story.
People find their way to Broadway in numerous ways. Jamie Broza was literally born into it - his father, Elliot Lawrence was a musical director. The influence is obvious on his new childrens CD, "I Want A Dog."
His first childrens' album in five years, tracks on "I Want A Dog" sound like they're drawn directly from musical theater. More precisely, a latin-themed production for kids - especially tracks like "Guatemala," featuring Broza's brother, David Broza. David is an Israeli superstar and sings in Spanish and plays classical guitar on the track.
I'll want to see how Ben reacts to the song, "New School." Although he is now happily settled at his current elementary school, he spent a difficult four-year period hopping from location to location. And as for "Birthday Parties Always End in Tears," while Ben has not cried at his own party, we'll seen plenty of breakdowns at these over-amped festivities. I'm nervous that we'll wind up playing "The No Game" with Ben after he hears that track. As it is, he hears a parade of "no" answers, sans music. Older kids will figure out what happened to the cat in "Where's Charlie" long before the "surprise ending." As for "Sisters," although my wife might choke up (with three older sisters), there's enough of an age difference of 20+ years that tempers any devastating mood swings.
Broza's first CD for children, “Bad Mood Mom and other Good Mood Songs,” made the Parents’ Choice Foundation’s list of the top 25 children’s CDs in the last 25 years. His follow-up CD, “My Daddy Is Scratchy” also won a Parents’ Choice Silver award as well as a NAPPA Gold award. He and his dad, Elliot Lawrence teamed up and co-wrote two musicals with Stan Berenstain, “The Berenstain Bears Save Christmas” and “The Berenstain Bears Onstage” which toured all over the United States.
Broza and his family rescued a dog, Dusty, from the North Shore Animal League and credit him as the inspiration for the new CD. In gratitude, he is donating 20 percent of the profits from this album to the organization, and hope it encourages others to adopt rescue animals. You could do worse for your family - musically or pet-wise.
Thursday, February 03, 2011
Ben's Playlist - Friday, February 4, 2011
Ain't Nothin' But a Party - Dirty Dozen Brass Band
I'm Yours - Jason Mraz
Seasons - Potjiekos
Bright Clear Day - Sarah Lee Guthrie
Party In The USA - Miley Cyrus
I Want To Push Buttons - Lunch Money
Whistle For Willie - Randy Kaplan
What's On Your Shirt? - The Jimmies
Get Funky - Teenage Fanclub
Ultrafoot - Quiet Ones
I'm Yours - Jason Mraz
Seasons - Potjiekos
Bright Clear Day - Sarah Lee Guthrie
Party In The USA - Miley Cyrus
I Want To Push Buttons - Lunch Money
Whistle For Willie - Randy Kaplan
What's On Your Shirt? - The Jimmies
Get Funky - Teenage Fanclub
Ultrafoot - Quiet Ones
Wednesday, February 02, 2011
Ben's Playlist - Thursday, February 3, 2011
The Rockafeller Skank - Fatboy Slim
Poker Face (Glee Cast) (Feat. Idina Menzel) - Glee Cast
The Thing That Helps Me Get Through - Michael Franti & Spearhead
Love and Hope - Ozomantli
Fireworks - Katy Perry
Baby (Feat. Ludacris) - Justin Bieber
Gotta Be Good - Ralph's World
Love's Enough - Songeez
Poker Face (Glee Cast) (Feat. Idina Menzel) - Glee Cast
The Thing That Helps Me Get Through - Michael Franti & Spearhead
Love and Hope - Ozomantli
Fireworks - Katy Perry
Baby (Feat. Ludacris) - Justin Bieber
Gotta Be Good - Ralph's World
Love's Enough - Songeez
Tuesday, February 01, 2011
Ben's Playlist - Wednesday, February 2, 2011
5 O'Clock World - Dave Clark Five
Use Your Words - Jeremy Plays Guitar
Brimful of Asha - Cornershop
Bohemian Rhapsody - Glee Cast
My Keyboard - Quiet Ones
What Do You Like More? - Robin Vaughn
Dynamite - Taio Cruz
Smiles & Laughter - Modern English
Purple - Laura Freeman
Use Your Words - Jeremy Plays Guitar
Brimful of Asha - Cornershop
Bohemian Rhapsody - Glee Cast
My Keyboard - Quiet Ones
What Do You Like More? - Robin Vaughn
Dynamite - Taio Cruz
Smiles & Laughter - Modern English
Purple - Laura Freeman
Monday, January 31, 2011
Ben's Playlist - Tuesday, February 1, 2011
Sway (Glee Cast Version) - Glee Cast
No New Tale to Tell - Love and Rockets
This Is Chanukah - Tor Hyams and Jkidz
Honey Honey - Feist
The Race Is On Again - Yo La Tengo
This Is Hip - John Lee Hooker
RC Cola and a Moon Pie - NRBQ
I Want An Alien for Christmas - Fountains of Wayne
Worms - Ratboy Jr.
No New Tale to Tell - Love and Rockets
This Is Chanukah - Tor Hyams and Jkidz
Honey Honey - Feist
The Race Is On Again - Yo La Tengo
This Is Hip - John Lee Hooker
RC Cola and a Moon Pie - NRBQ
I Want An Alien for Christmas - Fountains of Wayne
Worms - Ratboy Jr.
Sunday, January 30, 2011
Ben's Playlist - Monday, January 31, 2011
In Wonder With the World - The Boogers
Mr. Fancy Pants - Jonathan Coulton
Pancakes! - Bramble Jam
Even Numbers - They Might Be Giants
The Eeny Weeny Beeny Ghost - Bill Harley
Tommy Got In Trouble - The Bazillions
Teenage Dream (Glee Cast Version) - Glee
Fire And Rain - James Taylor
Original Friend - Lunch Money
Small Car - Marvin Pontiac
Mr. Fancy Pants - Jonathan Coulton
Pancakes! - Bramble Jam
Even Numbers - They Might Be Giants
The Eeny Weeny Beeny Ghost - Bill Harley
Tommy Got In Trouble - The Bazillions
Teenage Dream (Glee Cast Version) - Glee
Fire And Rain - James Taylor
Original Friend - Lunch Money
Small Car - Marvin Pontiac
Thursday, January 27, 2011
Ben's Playlist - Friday, January 28, 2011
Deep Deep Water - Mel Glazer
Sleep Through The Static - Jack Johnson
Caboose - Lunch Money
Mushaboom (Mocky Mix) - Feist
Trading Squirrels - Recess Monkey
Superball - Magic Kids
Purple People Eater - Ray Stevens
Strange Magic - Electric Light Orchestra
Sunday Morning - GMG Jam
Ice Ages Are Fun - Board of Education
Strange magic indeed this snowy am.
Sleep Through The Static - Jack Johnson
Caboose - Lunch Money
Mushaboom (Mocky Mix) - Feist
Trading Squirrels - Recess Monkey
Superball - Magic Kids
Purple People Eater - Ray Stevens
Strange Magic - Electric Light Orchestra
Sunday Morning - GMG Jam
Ice Ages Are Fun - Board of Education
Strange magic indeed this snowy am.
Wednesday, January 26, 2011
Ben's Playlist - Thursday, January 27, 2011
Dr. Worm - Jason Trachenburg
Si Se Puede - Deedle Deedle Dees
Baby U - Dog On Fleas
Smiles & Laughter - Modern English
Things You Want - The Hipwaders
Church - Lyle Lovett
Only Girl (In The World) - Rihanna
Jewish Girls (At the Matzoh Ball) - The LeeVees
Things Behind the Sun - Nick Drake
Si Se Puede - Deedle Deedle Dees
Baby U - Dog On Fleas
Smiles & Laughter - Modern English
Things You Want - The Hipwaders
Church - Lyle Lovett
Only Girl (In The World) - Rihanna
Jewish Girls (At the Matzoh Ball) - The LeeVees
Things Behind the Sun - Nick Drake
Tuesday, January 25, 2011
Ben's Playlist - Wednesday, January 26, 2011
Dog Days Are Over - Florence And The Machine
Birds - The Submarines
California Stars - Wilco
Paparazzi - Lady Gaga
Super Sonic Rocket Bike - The Bazillions
Party In The USA - Miley Cyrus
First Dance (Feat. Usher) - Justin Bieber
Best Friend - Lisa Loeb
Everything's Controlled By the Brain - Doc Dauer
Ben making me nervous with teen selections for the morning.
Birds - The Submarines
California Stars - Wilco
Paparazzi - Lady Gaga
Super Sonic Rocket Bike - The Bazillions
Party In The USA - Miley Cyrus
First Dance (Feat. Usher) - Justin Bieber
Best Friend - Lisa Loeb
Everything's Controlled By the Brain - Doc Dauer
Ben making me nervous with teen selections for the morning.
Monday, January 24, 2011
Ben's Playlist - Tuesday, January 25, 2011
Saved By Zero - The Fixx
Raspberry Beret - Hindu Love Gods
K-I-D-S - Luv Clowns
(I've Got a) Pet Dinosaur - Einstein's Monkey
I Want to Hold Your Ear - ScribbleMonster
Hey Hey Hey - Michael Franti & Spearhead
Cowabunga - Didi Pop
Comfortable - John Mayer
Coconut Woman - Karl Zero & THE Wailers
Aidan's Train - The Hipwaders
Raspberry Beret - Hindu Love Gods
K-I-D-S - Luv Clowns
(I've Got a) Pet Dinosaur - Einstein's Monkey
I Want to Hold Your Ear - ScribbleMonster
Hey Hey Hey - Michael Franti & Spearhead
Cowabunga - Didi Pop
Comfortable - John Mayer
Coconut Woman - Karl Zero & THE Wailers
Aidan's Train - The Hipwaders
Sunday, January 23, 2011
Ben's Playlist - Monday, January 24, 2011
Green Teeth - The Zucchini Brothers
White Light - Wilco
Kapalua Bay - Didi Pop
Turn Your Body Around - Monkey Monkey Music
Get Me Out Of Here - Bill Harley
Everyone Everywhere - Baze And His Silly Friends
Tube Sox - Princess Katie and Racer Steve
Freedom Highway - Mavis Staples
Dandelion - Steve Weeks
Candlelight - Maccabeats
White Light - Wilco
Kapalua Bay - Didi Pop
Turn Your Body Around - Monkey Monkey Music
Get Me Out Of Here - Bill Harley
Everyone Everywhere - Baze And His Silly Friends
Tube Sox - Princess Katie and Racer Steve
Freedom Highway - Mavis Staples
Dandelion - Steve Weeks
Candlelight - Maccabeats
Thursday, January 20, 2011
Ben's Playlist - Friday, January 21, 2011
Greensleeves - Ben Rudnick & Friends
The Time (The Dirty Bit) - Black Eyed Peas
Baby Kangaroo - Joe McDermott
Because I Said So - Keller Williams
Home - Dreyer Family Band
Song of the Passaic - Fountains of Wayne
Sugar Hiccup - Cocteau Twins
Things You Want - The Hipwaders
Oh My Heart - R.E.M.
The Time (The Dirty Bit) - Black Eyed Peas
Baby Kangaroo - Joe McDermott
Because I Said So - Keller Williams
Home - Dreyer Family Band
Song of the Passaic - Fountains of Wayne
Sugar Hiccup - Cocteau Twins
Things You Want - The Hipwaders
Oh My Heart - R.E.M.
Wednesday, January 19, 2011
Ben's Playlist - Thursday, January 20, 2011
Jump So High - Jeremy Plays Guitar
Man On The Moon - R.E.M.
A Fire Burns For Freedom - Ziggy Marley
La La La (I Love You) - Egg
Fireworks - Katy Perry
Enough is a Feast - Bill Harley
Ruling Me - Weezer
Sleigh Ride - The Jimmies
Black Horse & The Cherry Tree - KT Tunstall
Man On The Moon - R.E.M.
A Fire Burns For Freedom - Ziggy Marley
La La La (I Love You) - Egg
Fireworks - Katy Perry
Enough is a Feast - Bill Harley
Ruling Me - Weezer
Sleigh Ride - The Jimmies
Black Horse & The Cherry Tree - KT Tunstall
Tuesday, January 18, 2011
Ben's Playlist - Wednesday, January 19, 2011
Hello Hello (Good Morning) - Dustin Type
Sleep Through The Static - Jack Johnson
Yonder Comes a Freight Train - Laura Cantrell
Nothing Rhymes With Orange - Jon Samson
We R Who We R - Ke$ha
Teenage Dream (Glee Cast Version) - Glee
Hang On - Weezer
Cookies and Milk - Frances England
Check It Out - Casper Babypants
When I Ripped My Pants - Spongebob Squarepants
Sleep Through The Static - Jack Johnson
Yonder Comes a Freight Train - Laura Cantrell
Nothing Rhymes With Orange - Jon Samson
We R Who We R - Ke$ha
Teenage Dream (Glee Cast Version) - Glee
Hang On - Weezer
Cookies and Milk - Frances England
Check It Out - Casper Babypants
When I Ripped My Pants - Spongebob Squarepants
Monday, January 17, 2011
Ben's Playlist - Tuesday, January 18, 2011
Wings of An Eagle - Ziggy Marley
What Is A Mammal? - Marais & Miranda
Tommy Got In Trouble - The Bazillions
No New Tale to Tell - Love and Rockets
My Immortal - Evanescence
Muppets/Mahna Mahna - Primate Fiasco
Moving Right Along - The Muppets
It Never Rains in Southern California - Mamas and the Papas
Browns Ferry Blues - Robbie Fulks
At the Timeshare - The LeeVees
Back to school!
What Is A Mammal? - Marais & Miranda
Tommy Got In Trouble - The Bazillions
No New Tale to Tell - Love and Rockets
My Immortal - Evanescence
Muppets/Mahna Mahna - Primate Fiasco
Moving Right Along - The Muppets
It Never Rains in Southern California - Mamas and the Papas
Browns Ferry Blues - Robbie Fulks
At the Timeshare - The LeeVees
Back to school!
Sunday, January 16, 2011
Ben's Playlist - Monday, January 17, 2011
What's That Smell - Mr. Oscat
Real Gone - Sheryl Crow
Movin' On Up - Primal Scream
It's Sunny When You Share - Mighty Weaklings
Heart of the Country - Wings
Have You Seen My Chicken? - Sweetback Sisters
Green Teeth - The Zucchini Brothers
Funky Monkey - Yosi & the Superdads
Draw - Luv Clowns
Coconut Woman - Karl Zero & THE Wailers
California Gurls - Katy Perry (Feat. Snoop Dogg)
All Around the Kitchen - Pete Seeger
Real Gone - Sheryl Crow
Movin' On Up - Primal Scream
It's Sunny When You Share - Mighty Weaklings
Heart of the Country - Wings
Have You Seen My Chicken? - Sweetback Sisters
Green Teeth - The Zucchini Brothers
Funky Monkey - Yosi & the Superdads
Draw - Luv Clowns
Coconut Woman - Karl Zero & THE Wailers
California Gurls - Katy Perry (Feat. Snoop Dogg)
All Around the Kitchen - Pete Seeger
Friday, January 14, 2011
Ask Mister TeeVee
Mr. TeeVee has been viewing the tube for decades and periodically answers questions from the reader mail bag (MrJeff2000@gmail.com).
Dear Mr, TeeVee,
I love HOT IN CLEVELAND on Nick at Night! One of the actresses looks extremely familiar. Have I seen Valerie Bertinelli on television before?
– Anita Koppelman, St. Paul, MN
Anita, the vivacious Valerie knows the midwest, having spent 11 seasons in (fictional) Indianapolis for the sitcom ONE DAY AT A TIME. After a few failed attempts at her own series, she appeared on TOUCHED BY AN ANGEL for two seasons. Nowadays, outside of HOT, she is best known as Mrs. Vitale, having married financial planner Tom Vitale on New Years Day 2011.
Dear Mr, TeeVee,
I think my coworker has lost his mind! He claims that George Clooney starred on some television show years ago. We agreed that you would settle the bet. The loser has to wear a dress to work! –
Michael Higgins, Wesley, ND
Well, Michael, I hope you've shaved your legs! Hunky George Clooney, a two-time PEOPLE magazine Sexiest Man in the World, scrubbed in for five seasons as Dr. Doug Ross on NBC's successful medical drama, ER. The theme music from ER was composed by Grammy Award winner James Newton Howard.
Dear Mr, TeeVee,
I love I DREAM OF JEANNIE. That's what I call a classy program! I notice that the clothing and house decor seem a tad dated. Have they stopped making new episodes? – Rhoda Metzger, Toluca Lake, CA
You may continue to dream about I DREAM OF JEANNIE, but the last original episode was produced in 1970. There were two reunion movies in 1985 and 1991 but neither featured original star Larry Hagman. Unfortunately, the funnyman has been out of the limelight since this series went off the air.
Dear Mr, TeeVee,
I love HOT IN CLEVELAND on Nick at Night! One of the actresses looks extremely familiar. Have I seen Valerie Bertinelli on television before?
– Anita Koppelman, St. Paul, MN
Anita, the vivacious Valerie knows the midwest, having spent 11 seasons in (fictional) Indianapolis for the sitcom ONE DAY AT A TIME. After a few failed attempts at her own series, she appeared on TOUCHED BY AN ANGEL for two seasons. Nowadays, outside of HOT, she is best known as Mrs. Vitale, having married financial planner Tom Vitale on New Years Day 2011.
Dear Mr, TeeVee,
I think my coworker has lost his mind! He claims that George Clooney starred on some television show years ago. We agreed that you would settle the bet. The loser has to wear a dress to work! –
Michael Higgins, Wesley, ND
Well, Michael, I hope you've shaved your legs! Hunky George Clooney, a two-time PEOPLE magazine Sexiest Man in the World, scrubbed in for five seasons as Dr. Doug Ross on NBC's successful medical drama, ER. The theme music from ER was composed by Grammy Award winner James Newton Howard.
Dear Mr, TeeVee,
I love I DREAM OF JEANNIE. That's what I call a classy program! I notice that the clothing and house decor seem a tad dated. Have they stopped making new episodes? – Rhoda Metzger, Toluca Lake, CA
You may continue to dream about I DREAM OF JEANNIE, but the last original episode was produced in 1970. There were two reunion movies in 1985 and 1991 but neither featured original star Larry Hagman. Unfortunately, the funnyman has been out of the limelight since this series went off the air.
Thursday, January 13, 2011
Ben's Playlist - Friday, January 14, 2011
Why - Ah-Choo
White Light - Wilco
Twistification - Dog on Fleas
Spiders in My Breakfast - Harmonica Pocket
So So Happy - Debbie and Friends
Keep Your Hands To Yourself - Georgia Satellites
Joy - NoMeansNo
It Makes You Feel Good - Renee & Jeremy
Is It Chanukah or Hannukah? - Ruby and Ava Lockner
In My Room - Beach Boys
I Can't Let Go - The Hollies
Hey Hey Hey - Michael Franti & Spearhead
Hail Hail the Gang's All Here - Dean Jones
White Light - Wilco
Twistification - Dog on Fleas
Spiders in My Breakfast - Harmonica Pocket
So So Happy - Debbie and Friends
Keep Your Hands To Yourself - Georgia Satellites
Joy - NoMeansNo
It Makes You Feel Good - Renee & Jeremy
Is It Chanukah or Hannukah? - Ruby and Ava Lockner
In My Room - Beach Boys
I Can't Let Go - The Hollies
Hey Hey Hey - Michael Franti & Spearhead
Hail Hail the Gang's All Here - Dean Jones
Wednesday, January 12, 2011
Ben's Playlist - Thursday, January 13, 2011
Comfortable - John Mayer
Banana Pancakes - Jack Johnson
Flaming Pie - Paul McCartney
Unicorn - Dr. Dog
Opposite - Debbie and Friends
Holiday - The LeeVees
Hologram World - Tiny Masters of Today
Superhero - School for the Dead
Just Happy To Be Me - ScribbleMonster
8 Is A Number - Board of Education
Bushel And A Peck - Rani Arbo & Daisy Mayhem
Banana Pancakes - Jack Johnson
Flaming Pie - Paul McCartney
Unicorn - Dr. Dog
Opposite - Debbie and Friends
Holiday - The LeeVees
Hologram World - Tiny Masters of Today
Superhero - School for the Dead
Just Happy To Be Me - ScribbleMonster
8 Is A Number - Board of Education
Bushel And A Peck - Rani Arbo & Daisy Mayhem
Tuesday, January 11, 2011
Ben's Playlist - Wednesday, January 12, 2011
Africa Land - Ziggy Marley
Speed of Love - The Hipwaders
This Is Hip - John Lee Hooker
Dr. Worm - Jason Trachenburg
Smooth Operator - Sade
Big Kite - Flannery Brothers
Don't Squish That Bug - Bramble Jam
Seven - They Might Be Giants
Because I Said So - Keller Williams
Be Thankful For What You Got - Yo La Tengo
Speed of Love - The Hipwaders
This Is Hip - John Lee Hooker
Dr. Worm - Jason Trachenburg
Smooth Operator - Sade
Big Kite - Flannery Brothers
Don't Squish That Bug - Bramble Jam
Seven - They Might Be Giants
Because I Said So - Keller Williams
Be Thankful For What You Got - Yo La Tengo
Monday, January 10, 2011
Ben's Playlist - Tuesday, January 11, 2011
One Two Three Four - Feist
Arabella Angelique - Grenadilla
Mule Train - Frankie Laine
Song of the Passaic - Fountains of Wayne
I Like It That Way - Sweet Honey in the Rock
Burn It To The Ground - Nickelback
Hey Ya - OutKast
My Lucky Day - Bruce Springsteen
Every Day is a Summer Day - Keith Munslow
Ultrafoot - Quiet Ones
Arabella Angelique - Grenadilla
Mule Train - Frankie Laine
Song of the Passaic - Fountains of Wayne
I Like It That Way - Sweet Honey in the Rock
Burn It To The Ground - Nickelback
Hey Ya - OutKast
My Lucky Day - Bruce Springsteen
Every Day is a Summer Day - Keith Munslow
Ultrafoot - Quiet Ones
Sunday, January 09, 2011
Ben's 10th Birthday Playlist - Monday, January 10, 2011
You Have A Heart - Readeez
I Wanna Be An Action Figure - Daddy A Go Go
Tommy Got In Trouble - The Bazillions
Smiles & Laughter - Modern English
Best Friend - Lisa Loeb
Some More S'mores - Charity and the JAMband
Rich Girl - Gwen Stefani & Eve
Chag_Purim - Purim Jews
In My Room - Beach Boys
Birthday - The Beatles
The Rockford Files - Mike Post
Muffin Man - Ella Fitzgerald
I Wanna Be An Action Figure - Daddy A Go Go
Tommy Got In Trouble - The Bazillions
Smiles & Laughter - Modern English
Best Friend - Lisa Loeb
Some More S'mores - Charity and the JAMband
Rich Girl - Gwen Stefani & Eve
Chag_Purim - Purim Jews
In My Room - Beach Boys
Birthday - The Beatles
The Rockford Files - Mike Post
Muffin Man - Ella Fitzgerald
Thursday, January 06, 2011
Ben's Playlist - Friday, January 7, 2011
Squirrels - Mister G
The Eeny Weeny Beeny Ghost - Bill Harley
Tijuana Taxi - Herb Alpert & the Tijuana Brass
This Old Man - Lucky Diaz
Raspberry Beret - Hindu Love Gods
How Do You Spell Chunnukkahh? - The LeeVees
All My Friends Are Different - The Salteens
Sing About the Sun - Dog on Fleas
Tripping Down the Freeway - Weezer
Playlist arranged with Matthew.
The Eeny Weeny Beeny Ghost - Bill Harley
Tijuana Taxi - Herb Alpert & the Tijuana Brass
This Old Man - Lucky Diaz
Raspberry Beret - Hindu Love Gods
How Do You Spell Chunnukkahh? - The LeeVees
All My Friends Are Different - The Salteens
Sing About the Sun - Dog on Fleas
Tripping Down the Freeway - Weezer
Playlist arranged with Matthew.
Mahalo to Maui from DidiPop
Songstress Shares Hawaiian Tunes
First, let me just say it was difficult to string a few sentences together the past few months that didn't include the words, "the baby." Matthew is home and doing well, and we're all looking forward to watching him grow and learn, especially about this thing called music that his older brother, Ben, loves so much.
Which brings me to DidiPop (recording artist Deborah Poppink) and her new CD, "DidiPop Goes to Hawaii." A prolific, award-winning songwriter/music teacher, Deborah started a second career as a children's recording artist - but the nickname preceded the career direction. While traveling around Asia (she has 28 stamps on her passport), the name "Deborah" was too difficult for some of the natives to prounce, so she became "Didi" with a side order of "Pop" from her last name.
Deborah's second CD takes listeners on a (short) trip to the islands of Hawaii, experiencing the language, culture, and musical stylings of the state. You get a "Keiki Hula," a ride of the "Sugar Cane Train," taste "Mango," and learn with the "Hawaiian Alphabet Song." Want a surf tune, styled circa Dick Dale? Try "Cowabunga."
Recording artist Eric Herman drops by for vocals on "Way Up High," about tropical birds and their melodies. Ben appreciated the appearance, as "The Elephant Song" is one of his favorite children's tunes from his single-digit years (he turns 10 on Monday, January 10).
Deborah started playing the electric organ (a gift from her aunt) at age 3. In addition to composing music for film and television, she circled the globe playing and has taught more than 10,000 piano lessons. Her interest in children's music is not surprising when you consider that Deborah was 40 and single - and then married with two girls and two stepsons at age 43.
Every vacation comes to an end, and DidiPop brings you home with "Going Home" (wouldn't you know it?) and the simple refrain that all children can learn:
I can't wait
To walk through the gate
Going home
If you want to share easy listening kid's tunes that will keep you warm this winter, spend some time with DidiPop and company.
First, let me just say it was difficult to string a few sentences together the past few months that didn't include the words, "the baby." Matthew is home and doing well, and we're all looking forward to watching him grow and learn, especially about this thing called music that his older brother, Ben, loves so much.
Which brings me to DidiPop (recording artist Deborah Poppink) and her new CD, "DidiPop Goes to Hawaii." A prolific, award-winning songwriter/music teacher, Deborah started a second career as a children's recording artist - but the nickname preceded the career direction. While traveling around Asia (she has 28 stamps on her passport), the name "Deborah" was too difficult for some of the natives to prounce, so she became "Didi" with a side order of "Pop" from her last name.
Deborah's second CD takes listeners on a (short) trip to the islands of Hawaii, experiencing the language, culture, and musical stylings of the state. You get a "Keiki Hula," a ride of the "Sugar Cane Train," taste "Mango," and learn with the "Hawaiian Alphabet Song." Want a surf tune, styled circa Dick Dale? Try "Cowabunga."
Recording artist Eric Herman drops by for vocals on "Way Up High," about tropical birds and their melodies. Ben appreciated the appearance, as "The Elephant Song" is one of his favorite children's tunes from his single-digit years (he turns 10 on Monday, January 10).
Deborah started playing the electric organ (a gift from her aunt) at age 3. In addition to composing music for film and television, she circled the globe playing and has taught more than 10,000 piano lessons. Her interest in children's music is not surprising when you consider that Deborah was 40 and single - and then married with two girls and two stepsons at age 43.
Every vacation comes to an end, and DidiPop brings you home with "Going Home" (wouldn't you know it?) and the simple refrain that all children can learn:
I can't wait
To walk through the gate
Going home
If you want to share easy listening kid's tunes that will keep you warm this winter, spend some time with DidiPop and company.
Wednesday, January 05, 2011
Ben's Playlist - Thursday, January 6, 2011
What Is An Animal? - Marais & Miranda
Scared By My Own Costume - Deedle Deedle Dees
Little Sack of Sugar - Harmonica Pocket
RC Cola and a Moon Pie - NRBQ
Cleaning Windows - Van Morrison
Sunday Morning - GMG Jam
Big Kite - Flannery Brothers
Even Numbers - They Might Be Giants
Home - Dreyer Family Band
Sledgehammer - Peter Gabriel
An assortment.
Scared By My Own Costume - Deedle Deedle Dees
Little Sack of Sugar - Harmonica Pocket
RC Cola and a Moon Pie - NRBQ
Cleaning Windows - Van Morrison
Sunday Morning - GMG Jam
Big Kite - Flannery Brothers
Even Numbers - They Might Be Giants
Home - Dreyer Family Band
Sledgehammer - Peter Gabriel
An assortment.
Tuesday, January 04, 2011
Ben's Playlist - Wednesday, January 5, 2011
Under The Sun - Dan Zanes
Sound of Sunshine - Michael Franti & Spearhead
Watch the Sunshine - Big Star
Have You Ever - Brandi Carlile
Joy - NoMeansNo
Smooth Operator - Sade
Imitation Of Life - R.E.M.
Only Girl (In The World) - Rihanna
B.A.T.H. - The Not-Its!
Bushel And A Peck - Rani Arbo & Daisy Mayhem
Lots of sunshine in the songs today.
Sound of Sunshine - Michael Franti & Spearhead
Watch the Sunshine - Big Star
Have You Ever - Brandi Carlile
Joy - NoMeansNo
Smooth Operator - Sade
Imitation Of Life - R.E.M.
Only Girl (In The World) - Rihanna
B.A.T.H. - The Not-Its!
Bushel And A Peck - Rani Arbo & Daisy Mayhem
Lots of sunshine in the songs today.
Monday, January 03, 2011
Ben's Playlist - Tuesday, January 4, 2011
Willy Won't - Debbie and Friends
Nonagon - They Might Be Giants
Sugar Hiccup - Cocteau Twins
Jump Up and Down - Flannery Brothers
Your House - Dre Towey
Strawberry Jam - Michelle Shocked
Brimful of Asha - Cornershop
I Wish I Was A Mole In the Ground - The Boogers
Rattle My Bones - The New Standards
Nonagon - They Might Be Giants
Sugar Hiccup - Cocteau Twins
Jump Up and Down - Flannery Brothers
Your House - Dre Towey
Strawberry Jam - Michelle Shocked
Brimful of Asha - Cornershop
I Wish I Was A Mole In the Ground - The Boogers
Rattle My Bones - The New Standards
Sunday, January 02, 2011
Ben's Playlist - Monday, January 3, 2011
White Light - Wilco
Green Teeth - The Zucchini Brothers
Mule Train - Frankie Laine
This Is Chanukah - Tor Hyams and Jkidz
Just Happy To Be Me - ScribbleMonster
Is This A Joke? - Billy Kelly
Hello There - Cheap Trick
Let's Twist Again - Chubby Checker
The Impression That I Get - Mighty Mighty Bosstones
I Just Want to Have Fun - Of Montreal
Rattle My Bones - The Suburbs
Welcome to the new year.
Green Teeth - The Zucchini Brothers
Mule Train - Frankie Laine
This Is Chanukah - Tor Hyams and Jkidz
Just Happy To Be Me - ScribbleMonster
Is This A Joke? - Billy Kelly
Hello There - Cheap Trick
Let's Twist Again - Chubby Checker
The Impression That I Get - Mighty Mighty Bosstones
I Just Want to Have Fun - Of Montreal
Rattle My Bones - The Suburbs
Welcome to the new year.
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