Author: DJ Rays Music

Chart Toppers 

“ALONE” by HEART

DJ Rays Music

Today’s track is a romantic power ballad that was originally recorded by iTen. However, it wasn’t until American rock band, Heart, released their version, did it really make a mark on the music industry. The lyrics within express feelings of heartache, as the narrator yearns to have some one-on-one time with a particular love interest. In 1988, at the 30th Annual Grammy Awards show, it earned Heart a nomination for “Best Pop Vocal Performance by a Duo or Group”. On this very day, July 22nd 1987, it was the #1…

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Heaven & Earth 

R.I.P. TONY BENNETT

DJ Rays Music

Tony Bennett was an American singer born in New York City on August 3rd, 1926. Known for his exceptional voice and traditional jazz standards, some of his most popular recordings include songs like “Because of You”, “Rags to Riches”, and today’s song choice (that can be listened to by clicking on the provided link). Throughout his career, he received multiple Grammys, including a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award. He has also been recognized with Kennedy Center Honors and the Presidential Medal of Freedom. On this very day, July 21st 2023, Anthony…

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Chart Toppers 

“IT’S STILL ROCK & ROLL TO ME” by BILLY JOEL

DJ Rays Music

Today’s track is a classic rock song that was recorded by American singer, songwriter and pianist, Billy Joel. The lyrics within express Joel’s thoughts on the music industry’s changing trends and the pressure for artists to conform to certain images and styles. The underlying message seems to be a jab against the new wave movement that was resonating in America (during the early eighties). Eventually, this song would go on to reach platinum status and top the pop charts in Canada. On this very day, July 21st 1980, it was…

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Heaven & Earth 

HAPPY BIRTHDAY CARLOS SANTANA

DJ Rays Music

Carlos Santana is a highly influential Mexican-American guitarist and songwriter, who is best known for his fusion of rock, blues, jazz, and Latin American music styles. In 1969, he and his band catapulted to fame after their electrifying performance at the legendary Woodstock Festival. Some of his most popular songs include “Evil Ways”, “Smooth”, “Maria Maria”, and today’s song choice (that can be listened to by clicking on the provided link). Considered as one of the greatest guitar players of all-time, in 1998, he was inducted into the Rock and…

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Chart Toppers 

“HOT IN HERE” by NELLY

DJ Rays Music

Today’s song is a popular hip-hop track that was recorded by American rapper, Nelly. It features a prominent sample from Chuck Browns’ 1979 hit, “Bustin’ Loose”. The lyrics within revolve around a party or nightclub atmosphere where things are really starting to heat up. In 2003, this song earned Nelly the award for “Best Male Rap Solo Performance”, and in 2008, VH1 ranked it on its list of the “100 Greatest Songs of Hip-Hop”. On this very day, July 20th 2002, it was the #1 song in America, topping Billboard’s…

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Heaven & Earth 

HAPPY BIRTHDAY BRIAN MAY

DJ Rays Music

Brian May is an English musician and songwriter who is best known as lead guitarist (and a founding member) of the rock band, Queen. Led by Freddie Mercury (on vocals), this group recorded many classics, including “Somebody to Love”, “Bohemian Rhapsody”, “I Want It All”, “Fat Bottomed Girls”, “Another One Bites the Dust”, and today’s song choice (that can be listened to by clicking on the provided link). Celebrated for his virtuoso guitar playing, Brian May often used the “Red Special”, a guitar he built with his father when he…

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Chart Toppers 

“CROCODILE ROCK” by ELTON JOHN

DJ Rays Music

Today’s track is a classic rock song that was written by Bernie Taupin, and recorded by British singer and pianist, Sir Elton John. The lyrics within reminisce about the good old days of rock and roll, with references to a fictional dance that captures the spirit of the era. Billboard magazine referred to it as a “clever easy beat rocker with a sound and flavor of the 1950s”. I must admit that I love a lot of Elton John songs, but this one is hands down, my personal favorite. On…

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