Author: DJ Rays Music

Heaven & Earth 

HEAVENLY BIRTHDAY JACKIE WILSON

DJ Rays Music

Jackie Wilson was an American singer who is often cited as being an influence on legends like Elvis Presley and James Brown. One of his most enduring hits is “Higher and Higher” (which is particularly known for its uplifting melody and passionate vocal performance). Nicknamed “Mr. Excitement”, in 1997, Jackie Wilson was posthumously inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. On this very day, June 9th 1934, Jack Leroy Wilson Jr. was born in Highland Park, Michigan. In celebration of his heavenly birthday, exactly 90 years ago today,…

Read More
Chart Toppers 

“Everybody Wants To Rule The World” TEARS FOR FEARS

DJ Rays Music

“Everybody Wants to Rule the World” is a 1980s pop song that was recorded by British rock band, Tears for Fears. The lyrics within touch upon themes of power, control, and the desire for influence. In 1986, the song won “Best Single” at the Brit Awards, and in 2021, Rolling Stone magazine placed it on their updated list of the “500 Greatest Songs of All Time”. On this very day, June 9th 1985, it was the #1 song in America, topping Billboard’s Hot 100 chart. If you’d like to have a listen, please feel…

Read More
Heaven & Earth 

R.I.P. BONNIE POINTER

DJ Rays Music

Bonnie Pointer was an American singer who was born in Oakland, California on July 11th, 1950. She was best known as a founding member of The Pointer Sisters (alongside siblings Ruth, Anita, and June). Together, this popular group released a string of hits including “Fire”, “He’s So Shy”, “Slow Hand”, and “Jump for My Love”. In 1974, she co-wrote the hit single, “Fairytale“, which won the group their first Grammy Award, and in 1994, she received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame (along with her sisters). On this…

Read More
Chart Toppers 

Livin’ La Vida Loca” RICKY MARTIN

DJ Rays Music

“Livin’ la Vida Loca” is an up-tempo Latin-pop song that was recorded by Puerto Rican singer, Ricky Martin. The lyrics within describe a wild and carefree lifestyle, often associated with nightlife and a sense of abandon. The phrase “livin’ la vida loca” itself translates into English as “living the crazy life.” Nominated for several Grammy Awards, this track marked a significant moment in the Latin pop explosion (of the late 1990s). On this very day, June 8th 1999, it was the #1 song in America, topping Billboard’s Hot 100 chart.…

Read More
Heaven & Earth 

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TOM JONES

DJ Rays Music

Tom Jones is an iconic singer who’s well known for his powerful voice and charismatic stage presence. His most popular singles include “What’s New Pussycat?”, “Delilah”, “Green Grass of Home”, “She’s a Lady”, and today’s attached song link. Throughout his spectacular career, he has received many accolades, including the Grammy Award for “Best New Artist” (in 1966). In 2006, he was knighted by Queen Elizabeth II for his services to music and charity. On this very day, June 7th 1940, Thomas John Woodward (known professionally as Tom Jones) was born…

Read More
Chart Toppers 

“Respect” ARETHA FRANKLIN

DJ Rays Music

“Respect” is a classic track that was written by Otis Redding and performed by the Queen of Soul herself, Aretha Franklin. Her powerful vocals and soulful interpretation of the song turned it into an anthem for female empowerment (and civil rights). In 1968, Aretha’s version of the song won two Grammy Awards for “Best R&B Recording” and “Best R&B Solo Vocal Performance, Female”. In the year 2003, Rolling Stone magazine ranked it #5 on their list of the “500 Greatest Songs of All-Time”. On this very day, June 7th 1967,…

Read More
Heaven & Earth 

R.I.P. BILLY PRESTON

DJ Rays Music

Billy Preston was an American singer and musician who was born in Houston, Texas on September 2nd, 1946. He was often referred to as the “Fifth Beatle” due to his association with the band. Some of his more notable hits include “Will It Go Round in Circles”, “Outa-Space”, and today’s attached song link. Throughout his career, he received several Grammy Awards, including “Best Pop Instrumental Performance” for “Outa-Space” (in 1973) and “The Wildest Organ in Town” (in 1974). On this very day, June 6th 2006, William Everett Preston died in…

Read More
Chart Toppers 

“Funkytown” LIPPS INC

DJ Rays Music

“Funkytown” is a song that was recorded by the “one hit wonder” disco group, Lipps Inc. The lyrics within express a desire to find a happening place where one can indulge in some music and dancing (essentially, a metaphorical “Funkytown”). It topped the charts in several countries around the world, including Spain, France, New Zealand, Australia, and Canada. On this very day, June 6th 1980, it was also the #1 song in America, topping Billboard’s Hot 100 chart. If you’d like to have a listen, please feel free to use…

Read More