It’s Thursday and that has come to mean a focus on the softer side of the 70s. The reason is simple. Medleys featuring “hard rock” receive substantially fewer hits than the more mellow songs. That’s not to say this medley is filled with strictly ballads but if you’re looking for a “rock anthem,” you are out of luck.
Hey, where else are you going to find Elvis Presley following Peter Frampton and then being followed by, yep, Perry Como? Don’t laugh because Como’s song was a #10 Billboard Hot 100 hit and a #4 smash on the British charts.
Hope you enjoy it! 🙂
Your Memories … That’s What We’re All About
Play button is on the left … Volume slider is on the right
1970s Mostly Mellow Hits
Harry Nilsson – Melanie – Tommy James
Peter Frampton – Elvis Presley
Perry Como – James Taylor
Good Morning, Ray. Mellow, huh, OK if you insist. Harry Nilsson was such a talented singer-songwriter. Good choice here, rather then go with the obvious. He was one of those people who was more influential than popular. His critical acceptance was there from the start but overall it didn’t lead to massive sales. Melanie, with her unique, upbeat , squeaky voice and equally different style, she was my kind of girl. She had such a happy, carefree way about her that seemed like what we would call “authentic “ today. She was comfortable in her own skin. I always enjoyed her work. All right, I’m done for today. Thank you Ray for reminding me of two artists who approached their work on their own terms and succeeded.
Thanks, Don.
I don’t “insist” but frankly, the number of hits on the mellow stuff easily double the hits I receive when I play the hard rock music. I think you know where I stand on the kind of music I prefer but I don’t play these songs for my enjoyment. I play them for the benefit of listeners who let me know by clicking the media player or skipping it to indicate what they enjoy.
Harry Nilsson’s reluctance to tour certainly didn’t help his sales volume. His struggles with alcohol and drugs in the early to mid 1970s are well documented and that led to a gradual decline. That said, I was always amazed by his vocal range and songwriting ability.
I had a semi-personal experience with Melanie. As the collection manager at a bank, I was involved with dealing with a defaulted mortgage on a recording studio, the same one Melanie used early in her career. Turns out she and and a few other artists never paid their bills for recording there. Attempts to resolve the matter proved to be futile and the recording studio went under.
Enjoy this early spring weather while it lasts!
Ray I totally get it. You always include a few of my favorites in everything you post. That’s why I “tune in “ each day. Give the people what they want. I’m here for the music.
You really are a Magical Music Medley Maker….how do you do it? How do you know? It’s not like I make requests the night before but your medley choice always is just what I need. My week has been fine, nothing to complain about but MAN this mellow was exactly what my mood was missing this morning. I am soothed and ready for the day! Thank you so much and enjoy what will be a beautiful day! 🙂 XOXOXOXO 🙂
Thanks, Wendyl ❤️
Maybe it happens because we’re completely connected. 🙂
Let Mellow be your Mantra for the day!
❤️XOXOXOXO❤️
what a great 70’s medley ……. lost count how many times I have listened. Love them all, not sure if I have ever heard Elvis sing The Girl is gonna stay (isn’t that a bj thomas hit?), regardless he did a great job!!!
Thanks, Penny. 🙂
BJ Thomas recorded that song first and had the bigger hit but I always preferred the version by Elvis.
Very glad you enjoyed it all. ❤️
Always enjoy the “mellower” side!!
“Mellow” has always been your favored style, Pat. I’m so glad you enjoyed these. 🙂