Chart Toppers 

“TOGETHER AGAIN” by JANET JACKSON

As we continue our spotlight on BLACK HISTORY MONTH, today’s song, “Together Again” was an R&B-Dance track was recorded by American pop singer, Janet Jackson. The lyrics within explore themes of love, loss, and the hope of being reunited with a loved one (in the afterlife). According to co-writer, Jimmy Jam, this song had a deeper meaning (for Jackson) because it was about a friend she lost to AIDS. Certified platinum in the U.S., the song received positive reviews globally, and topped the charts in Poland, Hungary, the Netherlands, and…

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Heaven & Earth 

R.I.P. BUDDY HOLLY

Buddy Holly, a central figure in the early development of rock and roll, was born in Lubbock, Texas on September 7th, 1936. His music and style influenced many legendary artists, including the Beatles, Rolling Stones, and Bob Dylan. In 1957, he formed the Crickets, and (together) they went on to release their breakthrough hit, “That’ll Be the Day”. His song catalog also includes many other hits, such as “Everyday”, “Peggy Sue”, “Not Fade Away”, “Rave On”, and the song I chose for today. On this very day, February 3rd, 1959,…

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Chart Toppers 

“CAR WASH” by ROSE ROYCE

BLACK HISTORY MONTH continues with a popular seventies track that was recorded by American disco-funk band, Rose Royce. With over 2 million copies sold (in the U.S. alone) it was platinum certified, and in 1977 the “Car Wash” soundtrack went on to win the Grammy Award for “Best Score Soundtrack Album”. In 2004, the song was covered by Christina Aguilera (and Missy Elliott), who released their version as a single for the soundtrack of “Shark Tale”. On this very day, February 3rd 1977, it was the #1 song in America,…

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Heaven & Earth 

HAPPY BIRTHDAY SHAKIRA

Shakira is a Colombian singer, songwriter, and record producer who is known for her distinctive voice, unique dance style, and a fusion of various musical influences, including Pop, Rock, and Latin. Often referred to as the “Queen of Latin Music”, some of her most popular songs include “Whenever, Wherever”, “La Tortura”, “Underneath Your Clothes”, “Waka Waka”, “Chantaje”, and today’s song choice. On this very day, February 2nd, 1977, she was born in Barranquilla, Colombia as Shakira Isabel Mebarak Ripoll. In celebration of her birthday, I’ve chosen the song she is…

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Chart Toppers 

“INDEPENDENT WOMEN” by DESTINY’S CHILD

Continuing our spotlight on BLACK HISTORY MONTH, today’s R&B-pop track was recorded by American girl group, Destiny’s Child. The lyrics within celebrate women who are not just financially (but emotionally independent as well). It encourages women (of all races) to take pride in their ability to support themselves (and not rely on others for validation). Ultimately, it became an anthem for female empowerment and gained widespread popularity. It topped the charts in many countries world wide, and was also included in the Guinness Book of World Records, for longest-running #1 song…

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Heaven & Earth 

HAPPY BIRTHDAY HARRY STYLES

Harry Styles is an English singer and songwriter who initially gained fame as a member of the boy band, One Direction. Originally formed (in 2010) on the British music competition, “The X Factor”, this group went on to become one of the best-selling boy bands of all time. After One Direction went on hiatus (in 2016), Harry Styles decided to launch a solo career by releasing hit singles like “Sign of the Times”, “Adore You”, and the song I chose for today. Known for his distinctive fashion sense, he often…

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