Heaven & Earth 

R.I.P. JOHNNY MAESTRO

Johnny Maestro was an American singer who was born in Brooklyn, New York on May 7th, 1939. He was best known as lead vocalist for doo-wop group, The Crests. Formed in the mid-1950s, they were one of the earliest racially mixed musical acts (consisting of 3 African Americans, 1 Puerto Rican, and of course, Maestro himself, who was of Italian descent). With Johnny Maestro as lead singer, this diverse group achieved success with songs like “Six Nights a Week” and today’s song choice. In the 1960s, he joined The Brooklyn Bridge, and…

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Chart Toppers 

“7 RINGS” by ARIANA GRANDE

“7 Rings” is a song that was recorded by American pop singer, Ariana Grande. Particularly known for its mix of Hip-hop and R&B influences, it features a sample of “My Favorite Things” from “The Sound of Music”. The lyrics within revolve around themes of wealth and female empowerment, featuring seven diamond rings that Ariana Grande and her six friends purchased together (independently). Upon its release, the song had an incredible response worldwide, topping the charts in 28 different countries. On this very day, March 24th 2019, it was the #1…

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Heaven & Earth 

HAPPY BIRTHDAY CHAKA KHAN

Chaka Khan is an American singer and songwriter who rose to fame (in the 1970s) as lead singer of the funk band, Rufus. Some of this group’s most popular hits include “Tell Me Something Good”, “Sweet Thing”, and today’s song choice. Her solo career was equally successful, with hits like “I’m Every Woman” and “I Feel for You”. To date, she has won a total of 10 Grammy Awards, including two as a member of Rufus. On this very day, March 23rd 1953, Yvette Marie Stevens (better known as Chaka…

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Chart Toppers 

“KEEP ON LOVIN’ YOU” by REO SPEEDWAGON

“Keep on Loving You” is a power ballad that was recorded by American rock band, REO Speedwagon. Written and sung by lead vocalist, Kevin Cronin, it has become a classic rock anthem, and is considered as one of the bands’ signature hits. On August 1st 1981, this song was played on the debut broadcast of the innovative music video show, MTV. On this very day, March 23rd 1981, it was the #1 song in America, topping Billboard’s Hot 100 chart. If you’d like to have a listen, please feel free…

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Heaven & Earth 

R.I.P. DAN HARTMAN

Dan Hartman was an American musician, singer, songwriter, and record producer who was born in West Hanover, Pennsylvania on December 8th, 1950. An extremely versatile musician, Hartman played multiple instruments, and his work encompassed many different musical styles. As an example, two of his biggest hits were “Instant Replay” (featuring a pure disco sound) and today’s song choice (which showcases a soul and Motown vibe). On this very day, March 22nd, 1994, Daniel Earl Hartman died of a brain tumor (at 43 years of age). In memory of his passing,…

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Chart Toppers 

“WE ARE YOUNG” by FUN

The song “We Are Young” is a pop-rock anthem that focuses on youth, freedom, and living in the moment. Upon release, it quickly received widespread acclaim from music critics, with many noting the song as a breakthrough for the Indie genre. It’s chorus resonated with listeners all around the world, helping it top the charts in many countries, including Ireland, Scotland, Portugal, Austria, Poland, Israel, Australia, Canada, and the U.K.. On this very day, March 22nd 2012, it was also the #1 song in America, topping Billboard’s Hot 100 chart. If…

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