Author: DJ Rays Music
“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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HAPPY BIRTHDAY ALICE COOPER
Alice Cooper, is an American singer and songwriter who became a prominent figure in the rock music scene during the 1970s. He is credited for being one of the pioneers of shock rock, with his on-stage persona being characterized by dark and macabre themes (often featuring guillotines, fake blood, and other theatrical elements). Some of the songs that made Alice Cooper famous include “I’m Eighteen”, “School’s Out”, “Only Women Bleed”, “No More Mr. Nice Guy”, and “Poison” (to name just a few). Known for his unique impact in the hard…
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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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“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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“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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