Welcome to RESULTS DAY for Battle of the Bands!! I am dc ~ relief, and my battle featured, "Sing We Now of Christmas." The piano arrangement of Damon Criswell, challenged the bell choir of Purdue University. Up until the last day it seemed I had a decent blowout going. BUT - suddenly four votes including my vote, changed that tune. Final Tally: Damon Criswell - 9 votes Purdue Bell Choir - 7 votes
Thank you for your participation! Let's not forget... a very special Thank You to our event hosts:
We feature two different recordings of the same song. Listen to both, and then vote for the song version you like the best. Feel free to leave me a comment, along with your vote. Our battles take place twice a month ~ on the 1st and 15th. The results come six days later ~ on the 7th and 21st. That's when I return, add all of the votes, including mine, and announce the winner. Feel free to return and see if your choice won! If you would like to listen, and vote in other battles, please see the participant list in the right hand margin. If you would like to join this bi-monthly blog-event, visit the blog host, Stephen T. McCarthy. Leave him a message, and your blog address. We would love to have you participate.
Please excuse my lateness in posting a battle. It was almost cancelled due to personal, ongoing issues. I won't take time to explain now... maybe later in the month... I have some decisions to make.
Meanwhile, I hope everyone will have a peaceful holiday!
"Sing we Now of Christmas." was written by Bernard de la Monnoye in 1957 in Burgundy, France. Today I will explore the world of musical instrumentals again. Here are my challengers:
Heads up!! The Banner painting (above), was done by me! Maybe I should call it, 'The Sugar Plum Forest'?
I am dcrelief, and my battle featured Tchaikowsky's "Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy." Any hesitation to go this battle route was quickly erased. Thank you for the many joyful compliments.
Husband and wife team, Glass Duo, challenged William Zeitler. Their using individual glasses, was pitted against Benjamin Franklin's invention, called the Armonica.
I have a short clip with Mr. Zeitler explaining this unique instrument. To me it's like playing a glass piano (hmm). Benjamin Franklin's Armonica
This battle might be called a 'blowout' - definitions escape me!
My vote was cast for Glass Duo, for the same reason, so many of you enjoyed them. They work beautifully together, like 'poetry in motion.'
RESULTS: Glass Duo - 15 votes/ William Zeitler - 6 votes
As always - thank you for your participation! Let's not forget...
Your interest in joining this blogging event would be most welcomed. Please go to Stephen T. McCarthy's blog, leave your name and blog link in the comment box!
NEXT BATTLE DATE: Tuesday, December 15th.
I'm playing the winner's version again... and offer another song by them, that surprised me. If you have time, have a listen to both. See you next time. ~ Dixie
Stephen T. McCarthy How we Battle: We feature two different recordings of the same song. Listen to both, and then vote for the song version you like the best. Feel free to leave me a comment, along with your vote. Our battles take place twice a month ~ on the 1st and 15th. The results come six days later ~ on the 7th and 21st. That's when I return, add all of the votes, including mine, and announce the winner. Feel free to return and see if your choice won! If you would like to listen, and vote in other battles, please see the participant list in the right hand margin. If you would like to join this bi-monthly blog-event, visit the blog host, Stephen T. McCarthy. Leave him a message, and your blog address. We would love to have you participate.
It's December, and the Battle of the Bands participants will present 'themed' music for our enjoyment. This first contest, I chose to present a secular song. One of my favorites since early childhood. A favorite ballet that is considered a part of this season. I love to watch the elementary age perform it; they are so cute. One of them might get tired in the middle of the song to rest. No problem - everyone else takes their rest when they're ready, (smile). This ballet is the much loved, "The Nutcracker." (You knew, right?) The photo of the plate (above) is one from my collection. (Firing date: 10-13-81). Today I bring you the 'glassic' interpretation of a classic.
The featured song for today is: "Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy," from "The Nutcracker," written by Russian composer, Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky in 1862.
Background of the challengers:
1- GlassDuo was founded by Anna and Arkadiusz Szafraniec. They are the only glass harp music group in Poland, one of few professional ensembles worldwide. They perform both solo concerts and concerts with additional musicians.
2- William Zeitler was one of the few professional players in the world on the ‘glass armonica’ — an instrument invented by Benjamin Franklin in 1761 (it works on the ‘wet finger around the wine glass’ idea). William has performed on the glass armonica internationally, including at the Kennedy Center in Washington, DC, and with the Blue Man Group at the Hollywood Bowl. He is accompanied by a harp and a bass clarinet. (I'll post a clip about Ben Franklin on the battle result page.)
Ready, set, go. Vote for the one you like, and let me hear from ya!
No battle today! However I found a photo and a song, both titled, "November Sky". It's quite possibly my favorite month. Having just celebrated a birthday, and Thanksgiving a day or so away; it doesn't take much to excite me, (smile). Every seven years my birthday falls on Thanksgiving - that's always a real treat. I get to play, "Big Bird." Ha!
One of my favorite instrumental artists, Yanni, hails from Greece. I've never seen him perform live but it ain't over until the big bird says it is. Enjoy!
To those who celebrate, please have a safe and happy Thanksgiving. See you on December 1st.
Welcome back to the results post. I featured the Diane Warren song, "Because You Loved Me," originally recorded by Celine Dion in 1996. Her challenger was Johnny Mathis, who recorded the song in 2004. A couple of times I thought they might tie, but in the end... the majority went with Celine. It's okay. I like her version, but Johnny's did exactly what I wanted. I voted for him, (smile). Thank you for your participation! Final tally: Celine Dion ~13 votes Johnny Mathis ~ 10 votes Now I'm going to ease into my easy chair with a good book. Oops, first I'll thank our event hosts: FAE @ Far Away Eyes Stephen T. McCarthy presents Battle of the Bands
Your interest in joining this blogging event would be most welcomed. Please go to Stephen T. McCarthy's blog, leave your name and blog link in the comment box!
We feature two different recordings of the same song. Listen to both, and then vote for the song version you like the best. Feel free to leave me a comment, along with your vote.
Our battles take place twice a month ~ on the 1st and 15th. The results come six days later ~ on the 7th and 21st. That's when I return, add all of the votes, including mine, and announce the winner. Feel free to return and see if your choice won!
If you would like to listen, and vote in other battles, please see the participant list in the right hand margin. If you would like to join this bi-monthly blog-event, visit the blog host, Stephen T. McCarthy. Leave him a message, and your blog address. We would love to have you participate.
# 1- Celine Dion ~ wiki note:
"Because You Loved Me" is a song recorded by Canadian singer Celine Dion for her fourth English-language studio album, Falling into You (1996). It was released on 20 February 1996, as the first single in North America, South America and Asia. It was released as the second single from the album in Australia, on 29 April 1996, and in May 1996 in Europe. "Because You Loved Me" was written by Diane Warren and produced by David Foster, and served as the theme song from the 1996 film Up Close & Personal, starring Robert Redford and Michelle Pfeiffer.
My note:
My Mom passed away about a year after this song came out. I decided it was the most descriptive instrument that fit our relationship perfectly. I felt that song on so many levels. And what a voice to perform it. Though I love to hear Celine sing, I dislike watching her perform. Who knows why? I'm sure many are familar with Celine's version. She is the original, but I believe Johnny might take some votes here. Have fun!
# 2 - Johnny Mathis ~ wiki note:
In 2004, Mathis did an album of Dianne Warren songs. This one was included.
My note:
This version didn't have what I term, 'the heat,' but I really liked it. Also I had changed ~ the grief I felt for my Mom had been reduced, and my sight was on higher ground. Suddenly, "I was everything I am because the Creator loved me..."
Most importantly, thank you to all, for the prayers, comments, phone calls, text messages, regarding my health. It's slow going but at least it's better daily (smile).
I don't know what I was thinking when I posted this battle - in fact I might have been asleep. Yeah, that sounds good. At least, go back to using two versions of the same song ('nuff said) I voted for 'Be Prepared' because I really preferred the music. I was also in the great minority as well. Here are the voting results:
Oogie Boogie - 13 votes Be Prepared - 5 votes Hopefully, November will hold a promise of excitement on here (smile). A special thank you to everyone for your comments and votes!
Today a little something for fun!!! I'm presenting two different songs. Each song comes from an animated movie, and features a scene from the movie. Lyrics are on screen. There are a couple of still shots that are featured, but no video. Listen to both, and vote for the one you like.
Contestant # 1- "Oggie Boggie Man" from the movie, "Nightmare Before Christmas."
Contestant # 2- "Be Prepared" from the movie, "The Lion King".
If you would like to listen, and vote in other battles, please see the participant list in the right hand margin. If you would like to join this bi-monthly blog-event, visit the blog host, Stephen T. McCarthy. Leave him a message, and your blog address. We would love to have you participate.
I'll be back on the 21st to tally the votes and post the results.
Welcome back for the results! I was completely surprised by the outcome. It took almost three days to get a vote for Little Hurricane. (By then, the real hurricane, 'Joaquin' was producing ten-hour long rain-spells, periods of strong wind, and a colder temperature, in my city. I soon became distracted from this battle.) I don't know that 'Joaquin' had any influence here, but on my return there were a lot of votes for Little Hurricane. They swept the battle.
I enjoyed both cover versions of Aerosmith's 'I Don't Want to Miss a Thing.' Little Hurricane's video sound quality was below par but that happens. Something about their cover reminded me of ''early years' music. I think John Holton called it, "The British Invasion." I voted for Little Hurricane.
Reggae and I have our moments - but not with this song. The more I listened to it, the more I realized I wouldn't be listening to it as much as the other cover.
I would like to thank everyone for taking time to listen and vote!
We feature two different recordings of the same song. Listen to both, and then vote for the song version you like the best. Feel free to leave me a comment, along with your vote.
Our battles take place twice a month ~ on the 1st and 15th. Our results come six days later ~ on the 7th and 21st. That's when I return, add all of the votes, including mine, and announce the winner. Feel free to return and see if your choice won!
If you would like to listen, and vote in other battles, please see the participant list in the right hand margin. If you would like to join this bi-monthly blog-event, visit the blog host, Stephen T. McCarthy. Leave him a message, and your blog address. We would love to have you participate.
On with the show ~ ~ ~ ~~~
Featured Song - I Don't Wanna Miss A Thing.
Recorded in 1998 by Aerosmith (Steven Tyler sang lead.)
Songwriter Diane Warren.
"I Don't Want to Miss a Thing" is a power ballad performed by American hard rock band Aerosmith for the 1998 film Armageddon. Written by Diane Warren, the song debuted at number one on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 (the first #1 for the band after 28 years together). It is one of three songs performed by the band for the film, the other two being "What Kind of Love Are You On" and "Sweet Emotion." The song stayed at number one for four weeks from September 5 to September 26, 1998. The song also stayed at number 1 for several weeks in several other countries. In the UK, the song peaked at number four, becoming Aerosmith's highest charting song in the UK, where it was the 17th best-selling single of 1998, and has sold over a million copies. >>This song was also featured in the 2013 video game Saints Row IV. [2] -Wiki stuff & bio.com
Today's battle: # 1- Lee Francis versus # 2 - Little Hurricane
Challenger 1 - Lee Francis is involved with the 'Reggae' culture of artists in the capacity of producer, singer, multi-instruments. He's singing is featured in two albums (that I could find): 'Sexy Love,' and 'Reggae Covers- volume 1.' He also has his own songs but finding biographical information is zilch.
Challenger 2 - Little Hurricane is an American rock and dirty blues band, based out of San Diego, California, United States. Formed in 2010, the band consists of front man Anthony "Tone" Catalano and drummer Celeste "C.C." Spina. Their influences include Van Morrison, Dead Weather, Gorillaz, James Taylor, Paul Simon, and The Beatles.
It's early here at the "Dixie Doodle Ranch." I was headed into the yard for hedge trimming and guess what? It's raining... yippee! In fact, we're expecting rain ALL weekend. That means - tomorrow - Dixie Doodle will doodle with something else (smile). Maybe I'll practice my dance moves. Ha!
Have a great weekend - next BOTB is Thursday, October 1st. Hope to see everyone then!
Music, like the song I'm posting was a lot of fun for me. For many years I didn't know group names, much less song names. I still can't recall what years they appeared. I had older neighborhood sisters that played stuff like this all of the time. My question was: 'Can I dance to it?' This definitely fit the criteria! I hear a song like this and I can't hold back the memories.
Welcome to RESULTS DAY for Battle of the Bands!! I am dc ~ relief, and my battle featured... the INXS song -'Never Tear Us Apart.' However if you go back and read the comments, I could rename the battle, 'Ripped to shreds.'Yes sirs, and madams... no stone was left unturned. Still I consider it to be a GREAT Battle, even though it was almost a landslide. Votes, votes, votes.... slam-dunk! I threw a dog biscuit to Joe Cocker, after all it was my fault he got pitted against a doberman. Joe Cocker - 4 votes Paloma Faith - 15 votes Thank you for your participation - votes and comments were greatly appreciated!! Let's not forget... thank you to our event hosts:
Your interest in joining this blogging event would be most welcomed. Please go to Stephen T. McCarthy's blog, leave your name and blog link in the comment box!
We feature two different recordings of the same song. Listen to both, and then vote for the song version you like the best. Feel free to leave a comment, along with your vote.
Our battles take place twice a month ~ on the 1st and 15th. The results come six days later ~ on the 7th and 21st. That's when I return, add all of the votes, including mine, and announce the winner. Feel free to return and see if your choice won!
If you would like to listen, and vote in otherbattles, please see the participant list in the right hand margin. If you would like tojoin this bi-monthly blog-event, visit the blog host, Stephen T. McCarthy. Leave him a message, and your blog address. We would love to have you participate!!
Today's song choice, "Never Tear Us Apart," is from the band INXS. If you want to hear their original version Go here for INXS version. They are NOT in the competition today. You cannot vote for them. But hold on... I've got two versions, and one might suit you!!!
Today;s Challengers: Joe Cocker versus Paloma Faith
1- John Robert "Joe" Cocker, OBE (20 May 1944 – 22 December 2014) was an English singer and musician. He was known for his gritty voice, spasmodic body movement in performance, and definitive versions of popular songs. The song was alsocovered by Joe Cocker for his 2002 album Respect Yourself. Joe does a fine job! But wait...
2- Paloma Faith (born Paloma Faith Blomfield, 21 July 1981[1][2]) is a British singer, songwriter and actress, known for her retro and eccentric style. Paloma Faith covered the song for a John Lewis TV advert, aired from 15 September 2012, and released it as the third single from her Brit Award nominated album Fall To Grace. Ten years after Joe's version.
I'm throwing in the Lyrics for ya! You'll be singing along in no time (smile). Never mind the "thanks," send M&Ms, please (grin). My work ends, as your's begins... crank it up!
Don't ask me
What you know is true
Don't have to tell you
I love your precious heart
I, I was standing
You were there
Two worlds collided
And they could never tear us apart
We could live for a thousand years
But if I hurt you
I'd make wine from your tears
I told you
That we could fly
'Cause we all have wings
But some of us don't know why
I was standing
You were there
Two worlds collided
And they could never ever tear us apart
I, I was standing
(Don't ask me)
I was standing
(You know it's true)
You were there
(Worlds collided)
Two worlds collided
(We're shining through)
And they could never tear us apart
You, you were standing
(Don't ask me)
(You know it's true)
I was there
(Worlds collided)
Two worlds collided
(We're shining through)
And they could never tear us apart
I, I was standing.
Please note: Joe Cocker stops singing at the 3:45 mark, even though that video continues. I'm not sure why, but there's no more sound after that.
Interesting weekend - my neighborhood had a block party! Yep, and the lower yard was the softball field, again. No more catching for me, for a while. The kids popped up too many balls and they came back and hit me. Then there was the wild pitch from one guy that almost knocked me out. I figured to head home, soak in some Epsom Salt, and watch the ball drop... but heck, it wasn't New Year's, and I don't own a television anyway. Might as well go write the results to this battle (smile). So I threw Ventura Highway out there, and you guys ran away with it, and now I'm stuck casting the vote to break a tie.Thank you, Lady Cherdo for your vote for America. So much for battle instructions. But I'm leaving it, 'cause I don't read minds.... nope. I voted for Claudia because I knew at least four of you wouldn't giver her the time of day. I'm kidding, but I did vote for her because today was a, "I think I like Claudia's version better day.' Here's the tally: Tom Braxton - 9 votes Claudia Gomes -10 votes (includes mine) America - Cherdo If you'd like to participate, get three signatures from three current players... I'm just kidding (smile); Use the following link to contact Stephen T. McCarthy presents battle of the Bands
These two were so close, I'm playing both versions again.
Thank you, music lovers!! Next battle: Sept. 15th. Aloha!
Bubba says my van needs a new transmission, but he can't fix it. Bubba's brother, Boyce says I need a new retaining wall at the rear of the house, but he doesn't know how to do it. Bubba and Boyce's cousin, Bob says, I need 'Thompson's Sealant' on the wooden gazebo, but their schedule is super-tight. Maybe they can start by next, um, May? Obviously, 'Bubba, Boyce & Bob Company' won't be getting any business from me.
However, a lady at the grocery store gave me a card to call her handyman. I checked his web site video, and I'm on the schedule now!!
My van has begged for a good scrubbing. It stares at me every time I exit the house. "Today, right?" Thursday won. I could no longer (honestly) tell my neighbors that the grime was there, simply to keep it held together. The van is a blindingly white color, even though it's a 1996! I'm saddened to see the light greenish tint gone. Maybe I need a vehicle of that color? Summer through, (aw heck), it could even remain through Christmas... green being a seasonal color and all.
Enough stalling - I put on my shades and went to work. The radio was popping out some old stuff and that prompted another part to the tale. Three Dog Night's song, "Out in the Country" is a bit slow to wash by, but wow, did I take a journey to yesterday-land.
Originally the house I own, (inherited from my parents), was considered to be 'in the country'... 30 miles from uptown Charlotte. Today I live just inside the city limit - darn tax moguls! But the song took me back. I found myself sitting on a front yard bench, swept away by the realization that time had moved on... and rather quickly, at that. It still has that country feel... or maybe it's me allowing childhood memories to live on. As the song says..." I stand alone, and take back something worth remembering."
If you want to listen, and vote in my current battle, go HERE
Meanwhile, quite a few Battle participants are struggling. It would be great to hold onto good thoughts for them. I'm just getting back on the trail, but have noticed others have not had an easy time. For your enjoyment... a song that StMcC once shared on this blog. Maybe you've heard it?
The Beach Boys perform "Long Promised Road." I've included the lyrics.
"Long Promised Road"
So hard to answer future's riddle
When ahead is seeming so far behind
So hard to laugh a child-like giggle
When the tears start to torture my mind
So hard to shed the life of before
To let my soul automatically soar
But I hit hard at the battle that's confronting me, yeah
Knock down all the roadblocks a-stumbling me
Throw off all the shackles that are binding me down
Sew up the wounds of evolution
And the now starts to get in my way
So what if life's a revelation
If the mind speaks of only today
So real, the pain growing in my soul
Of climbing up to reality's goal
But I hit hard at the battle that's confronting me, yeah
Knock down all the roadblocks a-stumbling me
Throw off all the shackles that are binding me down
Long promised road
Trail starts at dawn
Carries on to the season's ending
Long promised road
Flows to the source, gentle force, never ending, never ending
So hard to lift the jeweled sceptre
When the weight turns a smile to a frown
So hard to drink of passion nectar
When the taste of life's holding me down
So hard to plant the seed of reform
To set my sights on defeating the storm
So I hit hard at the battle that's confronting me, yeah
Knock down all the roadblocks a-stumbling me
Throw off all the shackles that are binding me down
Oh, yeah-eah-eah-eah
Hit hard at the battle that's confronting me, yeah
Knock down all the roadblocks a-stumbling me
Throw off all the shackles that are binding me down
Oh, yeah-eah-eah-eah
Hit hard at the battle that's confronting me, yeah
Knock down all the roadblocks a-stumbling me
Throw off all the shackles that are binding me down
I'd love to see you
I'd love to see you
I'd love to see you
I'd love to see you
I'd love to see you
Our battles take place twice a month ~ on the 1st and 15th. The results come six days later ~ on the 7th and 21st. That's when I return, add all of the votes, including mine, and announce the winner. Feel free to return and see if your choice won!
I'm dc~relief, and I'm featuring to two different recordings of the same song. Listen to both, and then vote for the song version you like the best. Feel free to leave me a comment, along with your vote.
If you would like to listen, and vote in other battles, please see the participant list in the right hand margin. If you would like to join this bi-monthly blog-event, visit the blog host, Stephen T. McCarthy. Leave him a message, and your blog address. We would love to have you participate.
Today's Battle Song: Ventura Highway by the band America.
Background: [[The song went to number 8 on the Billboard Top 40 Pop Charts for America, spending nine weeks on the charts after debuting on November 4, 1972.[5] It also reached number 43 in the UK Singles Chart, staying in that chart for four weeks.[6]] Wikipedia
You can listen to America's original version here, but remember they are not part of the competition.
Today's Competitors:
1 - Saxophonist and composer Tom Braxton - Jazz. Touring this summer!
2 - Claudia Gomes - singer, artist, and activist. Not a lot of information available, unless you can read Portuguese.
Extra Fun!!! A commercial featuring the song performed by The Gypsy Queens - do not vote for them. I just liked the commercial, and wanted to share it (smile).
Thanks everyone. See you on the 7th for the results.
This is another one of those songs that I want to play over and over. I get a peaceful feeling deep inside. For me it's not about a man... go figure. It takes me back to the days of parents. Yep, you read that right. For instance, I walked down to the lower forty where I planted tomatoes. The lower forty is an adjacent lot I own. The parents always had a huge vegetable garden, fruit trees, and grape vines. Over the years, I've picked okra until I itched to death! Well, close.
Fast forward to this year and how little I was able to accomplish. I could list some four letter words but what good would it do me? No lime in the soil, and you get no tomatoes. Sorry Dad, I forgot. I know... "don't worry, baby, right?!!"
Lots of work to do on the grape arbor. I'm so glad I kept the metal posts and chicken wire. Guy down the street is going to help me install it again. The purple grape vines are climbing the pear trees... can't let that continue! I think I may have lost the green grapes. The root stock may be salvageable... time will tell. Sorry Mom, I got too sick when I needed to be down there. I know... "don't worry, baby."
Okay, one more listen and I have to go measure the brick wall. It's not going to replace the mortar by itself. (If horses were wishes, beggars would ride.)
See everyone on Sept. 1st. Meanwhile the Beach Boys do the song!
I apologize for upsetting anyone. My health takes priority. I'm not sure when I'll be able to return to BOTB. I'm not critical... but I'm not my usual bubbly self either!
I'll do my best to get to the battles this week and vote. No promises, though (smile).
Excuse my lateness, in letting everyone know, I'm unable to take part in the last July battle. I will try to visit your battles, and vote this week. Hopefully I'll see you in August.
Thank you.
Remember ~
"What happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas!"
Welcome to RESULTS DAY for Battle of the Bands!!
I am dc ~ relief, and my battle featured: "Viva Las Vegas" ~
Challengers: Nina Hagen versus Shawn Colvin
In 1963, this song was a "B" side of a record that didn't get very far on the charts. It was also about the time the Beatles hit the states. Wikipedia says Elvis did a single, non-edited cut of the song for the movie of the same name. Then it went off into obscurity until other artists covered it. Most of the film's songs were considered unworthy to produce an album. In fact it was the dancing that was supposed to the film's feature, not the songs, and not Elvis. Strange story, huh? The main feature was to be singer/dancer Ann-Margret. (That spelling is correct, smile.) Moving right along...
It really looked like Nina was going to run away with all of the votes, but Shawn picked a few and a shut out got avoided. Whew!
Nina Hagen with 14 votes Shawn Colvin with 7 votes (including mine)
Thanks everyone for your participation, and votes! Let's not forget...
Your interest in joining this blogging event would be most welcomed. Please go to Stephen T. McCarthy's blog, leave your name and blog link in the comment box!
WELCOME TO BATTLE OF THE BANDS!! aka, BOTB.
Our battles take place twice a month ~ on the 1st and 15th. The results come six days later ~ on the 7th and 21st. That's when I return, add all of the votes, including mine, and announce the winner. Feel free to return and see if your choice won!
The music blogging event first introduced by our friends!
I'm dc~relief, and I'm featuring two different recordings of the same song. Listen to both, and then vote for the song version you like the best. Feel free to leave me a comment, along with your vote.
If you would like to listen and vote in other battles, please see the participant list in the right margin. If you would like to join this blog-hop, click the badge in the right margin ~ it takes you directly to Stephen T. McCarthy's blog. Leave him a message, and your blog address. We would love to have you participate.
Today's song feature: Viva Las Vegas! It was written in 1963, by Doc Pomus and Mort Shuman, for a film of the same name, and sung by Elvis Presley. Ironically, although Presley never sang the song live, it has since become widely known, and often performed by others. Should you want to hear Elvis' version, go here > Elvis sings Viva Las Vegas This version is NOT included in today's battle.
Today's challengers:
1 - Catharina "Nina" Hagen (born 11 March 1955) is a German singer and actress. Born in East Berlin, German Democratic Republic, she's had quite the career in music and movies. Rock, punk, and some disco. Considered by some as the "godmother of punk," she turned 60 in March of this year. She also did the Bob Dylan song, "One More Cup of Coffee," translating it into the German language.
2 - Shawn Colvin (born January 10, 1956) is an American singer-songwriter and musician widely known for her Grammy-winning 1997 single "Sunny Came Home" . Colvin was born in Vermillion, South Dakota and spent her youth in London, Ontario and Carbondale, Illinois. She's country, folk, and early rock and roll.
The June battles are history... I'm posting a personal favorite today. Having been talking to those walls for several days, I feel the need to hit the road... if only to go to the grocery store. Yeah, I know, such an exciting life here! All this excitement reminds me of an old car I used to travel in, up and down the highway. It was sitting under some pine trees when I spotted it. Lady at the house said she'd take $15 dollars for it, but there was a catch. I had to keep the car's nickname. You ready for this? "ThunderLizard." Made no sense to me until I cranked it up. Oh, and it cranked up on the first try! --> 457 Rochester Quadrajet. That baby would fly! No one could catch me. No one could catch the old midnight rider that I became.
See you all in July for the next summer wave of sound! Meanwhile, here's...
"Midnight Rider" featuring Vince Gill, Gregg Allman, and Zac Brown, from the forthcoming "All My Friends - Celebrating The Songs And Voice of Gregg Allman" Blu-Ray/DVD/CD available 5/6/14 from Rounder Records.
I am dc ~ relief, and my battle featured the song: "Hello Walls." The challengers were Esther Phillips versus Dwight Yokum! Thank you to everyone who visited, voted, left a comment, or just listened and jumped off!
Wow - this was so close I thought it would tie, but no... let's see what happened.
Esther took off with a strong string of votes. That soulful version hit home with quite a few... but Dwight would not be left standing in the dust, oh no! He took the next round of votes like a champ. A couple of days went past and Esther, once again gained ground. They were neck and neck into the stretch home. Whoa! Esther took the lead by two votes... then I cast mine for Dwight ('cause there ain't nothing like a tight pair of leathers... I mean... I like his version more! (smile). Drum roll...
Esther Phillips - 10 votes
Dwight Yokum - 9 votes (including mine)
Thank you for your participation! Let's not forget...
Your interest in joining this blogging event would be most welcomed. Please go to Stephen T. McCarthy's blog, leave your name and blog link in the comment box!
WELCOME TO BATTLE OF THE BANDS!! aka, BOTB Our battles take place twice a month ~ on the 1st and 15th. Our results come six days later ~ on the 7th and 21st. That's when I return, add all of the votes, including mine, and announce the winner. Feel free to return and see if your choice won! The blogging event first introduced by our friends:
I'm dcrelief, and I'm featuring two different recordings of the same song. Listen to both, and then vote for the song version you like the best. Feel free to leave me a comment, along with your vote.
If you would like to listen, and vote in other battles, please see the participant list in the right margin. If you would like to join this blog-hop, click the badge in the right margin ~ it takes you directly to Stephen T. McCarthy's blog. Leave him a message, and your blog address. We would love to have you participate.
Today's song choice: Hello Walls - written by Willie Nelson.
The first person to record the song was Faron Young in 1961. He's not included in the battle today, but if you want to hear him, click HERE . Willie actually recorded it later in 1962. He's not in the battle either, but you can hear him HERE .
Thank you in advance for your vote, and any comment you'd like to add.
Today's challengers:
1- Esther Phillips 1964 - a very soulful version.
2- Dwight Yokum, tribute video to Willie - honky-tonk/country
Welcome to Results Day! I am dc ~ relief, and my battle featured: "Ghost Riders in the Sky" with Judy Collins going head to head with The Sawtooth Mountain Boys.
Your interest in joining this blogging event would be most welcomed. Please use the badge in the right margin - click that, and off you go to Stephen's! Leave your name and blog link in the comment box!
Now the good stuff... My vote? Who won? Who lost? This was all tied up for a few days... it looked like I might have the tie breaker vote. Ha! Not so fast. ABFTS, Bryan and Brandon, came looking for Moonshine - lo and behold - forget the tie! They voted for the same artist. Thanks you, gentlemen! I voted for The Sawtooth Mountain Boys. They were my shot of moonshine, (nope, I meant to say) my cup of tea!
Here are the final vote results:
The Sawtooth Mountain Boys @ 13 votes Judy Collins @ 10 votes I enjoyed both songs, and could have voted either way. Still, I truly saw the ghost riders taking off with the Mountain Boys - might have been the flashing banjo! Thank you very much for your participation and votes! Lets' end this by playing the song with the most votes. I hope to be back on June 15th - an old health issue prevents much participation in the blog world right now. (More later.) Next Battle Date: June 15th!
WELCOME TO BATTLE OF THE BANDS!! **BOTB ~ where you listen to two different recordings of the same song, and vote for the song version you like. Feel free to leave us a comment, along with your vote.** There are two "Battles" per month, on the 1st and 15th. The results come six days later, (on the 7th and 21st). That's when I return, add all of the votes, including mine, and announce the winner. Feel free to return and see if your choice won! The blogging event first introduced by our friends: Fae @ Farwayeyes
If you would like to listen, and vote in other battles, please see the participant list in the right margin. If you would like to join this blog-hop contact Stephen T. McCarthy; leave him a message, and your blog address. We would love to have you participate.
Today's featured song: Ghost Riders in the Sky
The song was written and originally recorded by Stan Jones in 1948. Jones was a forest ranger who wrote songs on the side. After recording his version of the song, artists like Burl Ives, in 1949, Bing Crosby, Gene Autry and Johnny Cash all recorded it, and the song became a cowboy standard.
Today's Battle: Judy Collins vs The Sawtooth Mountain Boys
1 - Judith Marjorie "Judy" Collins (born May 1, 1939) is an American singer and songwriter known for her eclectic tastes in the material she records (which has included folk, show tunes, pop, rock and roll and standards). Her version of Ghost Riders in the Sky was recorded in 2010.
2 - The Sawtooth Mountain Boys hail from Monmouth/Portland, OR. with a genre in Bluegrass music. Band members: Steve Waller - mandolin, Rollie Champe - guitar, Chuck Davidshofer - bass fiddle, John Van Brocklin - 5 string banjo. They often warmed up for Lester Flatt and Earl Scruggs - a very popular Bluegrass duo. Their version was recorded in 1976.
Thank you in advance for your visit and your vote. Feel free to add any comments. I'll be back on June 7th to announce the results of this battle! Feel free to return at that time, and comment on the result.
Welcome to RESULTS DAY for Battle of the Bands!! I am dc ~ relief, and my battle featured the song: "Downtown Train," written, and originally recorded by Tom Waits.
Featured artists: Mary Chapin Carpenter and Patty Smyth.
My vote was cast for: Patty Smyth.
Now the good stuff... Who won? Who lost?
Patty Smyth @ 15 votes
Mary Chapin Carpenter @ 6 votes
Ladies and gentlemen, Patty will be driving the train today for our downtown adventure. Climb on board! But first... a big thank you to our co-hosts of this musical event:
Thank you Battle participants and visitors who chose to vote on my battle. I get some of the funniest comments. Not only do some have music savvy but also great humor! Thank you for that, (smile). The train is almost ready to leave.
One final note: Your interest in joining this blogging event would be most welcomed. Please go to Stephen T. McCarthy's blog, leave your name and blog link in the comment box!
NEXT BATTLE DATE: Monday - June 01, 2015
And now, the winner's version to close us out... Patty Smyth!
BOTB participant, Mike Spain has been doing birthdays... today is Pete Townshend's. You gotta go have a listen. Mike's blog birthday post for Pete Townshend Thanks, Mike, and here's my favorite, which I said I'd post up today!! If you want to vote in my current battle go here:
WELCOME TO BATTLE OF THE BANDS!! *BOTB* BOTB ~ where you listen to different versions of the same song. Vote for the song version you like. Leave us your vote and maybe a comment. We love comments! There are two "Battles" per month, on the 1st and 15th. The results come six days later, (on the 7th and 21st). That's when I return, add all of the votes, including mine, and announce the winner. Feel free to return and see if your choice won! The blogging event first introduced by our friends:
If you would like to listen, and vote in other battles, please see the participant list in the right margin. If you would like to join this blog-hop contact Stephen T. McCarthy; leave him a message, and your blog address. We would love to have you participate.
Final thoughts: We have new Battle of the Bands participants... see the margin on the right to visit other battles you'd like to listen to and vote.
Today's Battle: "Downtown Train" Written, and first recorded by Tom Waits in 1985. His version is NOT included in today's battle. Tom Waits' version
Today's challengers: 1- Mary Chapin-Carpenter ~ Mary is known for her work in the genres of Americana, country, and soft rock. She recorded her version in 1987. 2- Patty Smythe ~ Patty is known for her work in the genres of Rock, pop rock, and new wave. She recorded her version also, in 1987. Lyrics: Outside another yellow moon has punched a hole in the night time mist I climb through the window and down to the street I'm shining like a new dime The downtown trains are full full of all them Brooklyn girls They try so hard to break out of their little worlds You wave your hand and they scatter like crows They have nothing that'll ever capture your heart They're just thorns without the rose Be careful of them in the dark Oh if I was the one you chose to be your only one Oh baby can't you hear me now, can't you hear me now Will I see you tonight on a downtown train Every night, every night its just the same On a downtown train I know your window and I know its late I know your stairs and your doorway I walk down your street and past your gate I stand by the light of the four way and watch them as they fall, oh baby They all having their heart attacks They stay at the carnival But they'll never win you back Will I see you tonight on a downtown train Every night, every night its just the same You leave me lonely Will I see you tonight on a downtown train All my dreams, all my dreams fall like rain On a downtown train Will I see you tonight on a downtown train Every night, every night its just the same Will I see you tonight on a downtown train All my dreams, all my dreams fall like rain On a downtown train On a downtown train All my dreams fall like rain
