I was very busy yesterday and I ran out of time to put together a new medley. So I dug into the archives and selected one that was a hit the first time around. I hope it is again!
He was born in Holyoke, MA on February 5, 1939. He would go on to become the most prolific drummer in rock and roll history.
It would be next to impossible to create a medley of all the hit songs Hal Blaine lent his immeasurable talent to. As part of the famed Wrecking Crew, Blaine – who died on March 11, 2019 at the age of 90 – played on 150 songs that reached the Top Ten – with 40 of them reaching #1.
In the medley below, there are 12 of those #1 hits, along with three more that fell just short. As the saying goes, I only scratched the surface.
Play button is on the left … Volume slider is on the right
The Hal Blaine Medley
Herb Alpert & The Tijuana Brass (#7) – Ronettes (#2)
Dean Martin – Gary Lewis & The Playboys – Byrds
Sonny & Cher – Barry McGuire – Nancy Sinatra
Mamas & Papas – Beach Boys – Tommy Roe
5th Dimension – Richard Harris (#2)
Simon & Garfunkel – John Denver
This was wonderful, and a great tribute, with many different styles and versions of those drums. I have always loved drums my whole life. So if I recall correctly, the last time this medley was played. I really just listen to the songs. The vocals were ones that I remember, but this time, I really paid attention to picking out Hal and those drums. Loved it, and will definitely listen again. Thank you Ray this was super! You’re the best! 🥰
Thank you, Sandy 🥰
I believe you can NEVER go wrong with Hal Blaine. I’m so glad you appreciate the special talent he had and the treasure trove of classic music he left us.
Think I enjoyed this medley more than the first time b/c of the backstory
Never really knew about the talent and diversity of Hal Blaine until your revelations.
This is why playing a song on Spotify,for example, is great if you just love the song, but when brought to you by a super DJ, it’s a whole new experience!
Thank you, Mary Helen 🥰
You always make me feel special. You really have no idea how much I appreciate that and how much I appreciate you.
another great medley … I have found can NEVER go wrong with the medleys you provide, doesn’t matter if they are old ones or new ones. I also agree that playing something on one of the platforms is great but you don’t get the backstory on the songs and / or artists they way we do with you! YOU ROCK!!
Have a good evening Ray
XXOO
Thank you so much, Penny 🥰
I can always count on you to say the nicest things!
ROCK ON!
XOXO
Hi Ray,
I listened to this twice then sent the link to my sister because I knew she would love these memories too! I’m sure I’ll listen to this great medley again very soon…maybe tomorrow! 😊
Thank you!
Thank you, Terry! 🥰
I am so pleased to know you enjoyed the memories and thank you very much for passing this on to your sister! I’m not sure if you’re aware of this, but I have two more medleys featuring Hal Blaine. I’ll think about running them some weekend as a bonus!