This week In Male Balladeers 01/52

1 . Harry Nilsson – Gotta Get Up

Harry Nilsson’s “Gotta Get Up” is the opening track on his 1971 album “Nilsson Schmilsson,” produced by Richard Perry.

The song features an upbeat piano-driven melody influenced by Nilsson’s admiration for Tin Pan Alley and vaudeville styles.

The album marks Nilsson’s first collaboration with Perry and is widely regarded as one of his most commercially successful works, with three Grammy nominations and a win for Best Male Pop Vocal Performance for the song “Without You.” “Gotta Get Up” reflects Nilsson’s autobiographical experiences, making subtle references to personal anecdotes such as his upbringing and struggles in the music industry.

Although not released as a single, the song gained renewed popularity decades later when it was prominently featured in the acclaimed 2019 Netflix series “Russian Doll,” where it plays repeatedly as part of a key plot device.

Recorded in London’s Trident Studios, the track includes performances by session musicians such as Jim Keltner on drums and Klaus Voormann on bass, both of whom frequently collaborated with Nilsson.

Despite not charting independently, “Nilsson Schmilsson” peaked at No.3 on the Billboard 200, driven by hit singles such as “Without You” and “Coconut,” solidifying the album’s legacy.

Lifted from : On English TV today, Harry Nilsson at ‘BBC in Concert’ (1972)

2 . Alex Turner – Why’d You Only Call Me When You’Re High? (w/ Arctic Monkeys)

“Why’d You Only Call Me When You’re High?” is a single by Arctic Monkeys from their fifth studio album, “AM,” released on September 2, 2013.

Written by Alex Turner, the track combines R&B-inspired rhythms with guitar-driven indie rock and explores themes of late-night interactions.

The song reached number eight on the UK Singles Chart, marking it as the band’s highest-charting single since “Fluorescent Adolescent” in 2007.

It also charted internationally, peaking at number 11 in Ireland and appearing on multiple charts in countries such as Belgium and Australia.

The song’s music video, directed by Nabil Elderkin, follows Alex Turner wandering through Los Angeles under the influence, visually complementing the lyrical content.

The track received critical acclaim and frequent airplay, contributing to the massive commercial success of the “AM” album, which debuted at number one on the UK Albums Chart and won British Album of the Year at the BRIT Awards 2014.

Arctic Monkeys performed the song live at numerous notable events, including their headlining set at Glastonbury Festival in 2013.

The album version of the track does not feature guest artists but showcases co-production by James Ford, a regular collaborator for the band.

Lifted from : As we wish Alex Turner a ‘Happy Birthday’ the day is perfect for a ‘Arctic Monkeys At Their Bests’ post

3 . Lou Rawls – Lady Love

Lou Rawls released “Lady Love” as a single from his 1977 album “When You Hear Lou, You’ve Heard It All,” which was produced under Philadelphia International Records.

The song, written by Sherman Marshall and Von Gray, became one of Rawls’s notable hits, reaching No.24 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and No.10 on the Hot Soul Singles chart in 1978.

It also achieved commercial success in Canada, where it peaked at No.38 on the RPM Top Singles chart.

Rawls performed “Lady Love” during televised appearances, including on episodes of “Soul Train,” helping to further showcase the song to a national audience.

The album itself featured production from the renowned Gamble and Huff team, who were pivotal in shaping the Philadelphia Soul sound of the 1970s and collaborated with numerous prominent artists during this era.

“Lady Love” was one of Rawls’s final significant hits of the decade before his career resurgence in the 1980s with “You’ll Never Find Another Love Like Mine.” Clips of the song’s performances and its inclusion in playlists of classic soul stations have extended its influence in modern retrospectives of 1970s R&B music.

Lifted from : We remember Lou Rawls. ‘We’ll Never Find Another Voice Like Yours’

4 . Elvis Costello – Accidents Will Happen (w/ The Attractions)

“Accidents Will Happen” by Elvis Costello and The Attractions is the opening track on their 1979 album “Armed Forces,” released via Radar Records in the UK and Columbia Records in the US.

Written solely by Costello, the song is notable for its intricate wordplay and distinctive piano-driven arrangement by keyboardist Steve Nieve.

The track reached No.28 on the UK Singles Chart and was accompanied by an innovative animated music video directed by Annabel Jankel and Rocky Morton, among the first fully animated music videos ever created.

The single was released in a heat-sensitive sleeve that revealed the artwork only when touched, designed by Barney Bubbles, adding a collectible novelty aspect.

Costello performed the song with The Attractions during a notable appearance on “Top of the Pops” in 1979.

The song has been included in several retrospective compilations, such as “The Best of Elvis Costello and The Attractions.” Additionally, a live version of the track was recorded during Costello’s 1978 tour and released on the 1980 live album “Live at Hollywood High.”

Lifted from : Elvis Costello releases his third album : ‘Armed Forces’ recorded with the Attractions and featuring ‘Accidents Will Happen’ and ‘Oliver’s Army’ (1979)

5 . Townes Van Zandt – If I Needed You

Townes Van Zandt’s “If I Needed You” was written in 1972 and first appeared on his album “The Late Great Townes Van Zandt” released that same year.

The song is one of Van Zandt’s most recognized compositions and was famously covered in 1981 by country music duo Emmylou Harris and Don Williams, whose version reached #3 on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart.

The recording process for the original version featured Van Zandt’s characteristic sparse instrumentation, supporting his lyrical storytelling style.

Although never released as a single by Van Zandt himself, the track gained particular attention after being performed live during various concerts, including his notable 1977 Austin City Limits appearance.

The song also became a staple within the folk and country music communities and was later included in several compilation albums celebrating Van Zandt’s songwriting legacy.

No official music video accompanies the original version, but live performance clips and covers by other artists have circulated widely.

Lifted from : We remember Townes Van Zandt, American singer & poet

6 . Michael Stipe – Pale Blue Eyes (w/ R.E.M.)

Michael Stipe, alongside his band R.E.M., performed a cover of “Pale Blue Eyes,” originally written and recorded by The Velvet Underground for their 1969 album “The Velvet Underground.” R.E.M.

recorded their version during the sessions for their album “Dead Letter Office,” which was released in April 1987 and compiled rarities and B-sides.

Though not released as a single, R.E.M.’s rendition gained attention for showcasing the band’s reverence for Lou Reed’s songwriting and the influence of The Velvet Underground on their music.

The track notably features Stipe’s distinct vocal delivery and Peter Buck’s jangly guitar work, retaining the song’s melancholic tone.

“Dead Letter Office” as an album reached number 60 on the Billboard 200 chart in the U.S.

and was praised for its collection of unique tracks and covers.

R.E.M.

has performed “Pale Blue Eyes” live on several occasions, including support tours during their early years in the 1980s, although it was not a staple in their setlists.

The band also recorded a live version for the BBC in the mid-1980s, which later became part of the 2018 compilation “R.E.M.

at the BBC.” Lou Reed, the original songwriter, publicly expressed approval of the band’s cover in interviews during that era, acknowledging their faithful interpretation.

The song remains a key example of R.E.M.’s practice of celebrating their musical influences through covers.

Lifted from : Happy Birthday Michael Stipe. ‘One Stipe Beyond’

7 . Ed Sheeran – Castle On The Hill

“Castle on the Hill” by Ed Sheeran was released on January 6, 2017, as one of the dual lead singles from his third studio album, “÷” (Divide), alongside “Shape of You.” Written by Sheeran and Benny Blanco, the track is a nostalgic homage to Sheeran’s upbringing in Framlingham, Suffolk, England.

The song blends autobiographical storytelling with vivid imagery of his teenage years, referencing key landmarks like “the castle on the hill.” “Castle on the Hill” peaked at No.6 on the US Billboard Hot 100 and reached No.2 on the UK Singles Chart, where it was held off the top spot by Sheeran’s own single, “Shape of You.” The song earned multi-platinum certifications in numerous countries, including 4× Platinum in the UK and 3× Platinum in the US.

Its official music video, released on January 23, 2017, was filmed in Framlingham and featured local residents, including schoolmates of Sheeran’s.

The song was first performed live on TV during the 2017 BRIT Awards, where Sheeran also collaborated with Stormzy for a medley.

It became one of Sheeran’s most-streamed tracks on platforms like Spotify and featured prominently in his live shows during the ÷ Tour, which was named the highest-grossing tour of all time.

Lifted from : On Radio today, Ed Sheeran is back (2017)

8 . George Benson – Masquerade

George Benson’s rendition of “This Masquerade” was featured on his 1976 album “Breezin’,” which marked a significant phase in his career as it became the first jazz album to be certified platinum by the RIAA.

“This Masquerade,” originally written by Leon Russell in 1972, was the only vocal track on the otherwise instrumental album.

It peaked at No.10 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and reached No.3 on the Hot Soul Singles chart, showcasing Benson’s dual talent as both a guitarist and a vocalist.

The song earned Benson a Grammy Award for Best Pop Vocal Performance, Male, in 1977, solidifying its impact in his repertoire.

Notably, the “Breezin’” album was produced by Tommy LiPuma and recorded alongside musicians such as Phil Upchurch, Ronnie Foster, and drummer Harvey Mason.

In addition to its chart success, the song featured on TV and radio extensively throughout the 1970s, further elevating Benson’s visibility as a crossover artist.

Lifted from : George Benson records ‘Breezin” an album produced By Tommy Lipuma for Warner Bros. (1976)

9 . Smokey Robinson – Baby Baby (w/ The Miracles)

Smokey Robinson and The Miracles’ “Baby Baby” was released in September 1964 as a single on the Tamla label, a subsidiary of Motown Records.

Written by Smokey Robinson, the song was part of the album “Away We A-Go-Go,” and it showcases Motown’s signature soulful sound.

While not as commercially impactful as some of The Miracles’ top-charting hits, it contributed to the group’s prolific 1960s output under the Motown label, co-founded by Berry Gordy.

“Baby Baby” saw performances in several notable venues, including appearances on nationally broadcast TV shows such as “American Bandstand,” helping The Miracles maintain their presence in the evolving music scene.

Smokey Robinson’s leadership as the group’s chief songwriter and frontman was central in crafting their sound, and “Baby Baby” highlighted his lyrical themes of love and devotion.

Collaborations with Motown’s in-house band, The Funk Brothers, provided instrumental backing, typical of the label’s productions.

The Miracles were integral to Motown’s early success, and while “Baby Baby” did not achieve major chart success on platforms like the Billboard Hot 100, it represents the consistent output of singles that built their prolific career.

The track and its performance history underscore the influence of Motown’s collaborative environment during the 1960s.

Lifted from : Tamla publish ‘Smokey Robinson & The Miracles LIVE!’ recorded at The Roostertail in Detroit (1969)

10 . Bobby ‘Blue’ Bland – I’ll Take Care Of You

Bobby “Blue” Bland’s “I’ll Take Care of You,” released in 1959, is a soulful blues ballad that became one of his signature tracks.

Written by Brook Benton, the song appeared on Bland’s album “Two Steps from the Blues,” which was released in 1961 and is often regarded as a landmark project in the blues and R&B genres.

Produced by Don Robey and Joe Scott under Duke Records, the track showcases Bland’s smooth, emotive vocals accompanied by a lush arrangement featuring a prominent horn section orchestrated by Scott, who was a key figure in Bland’s sound during this era.

“I’ll Take Care of You” reached No.89 on the Billboard Hot 100 and peaked at No.2 on the Billboard R&B chart, contributing to Bland’s growing prominence in the late 1950s and early 1960s.

The song has been covered by multiple artists over the decades, including Van Morrison, Etta James, and Gil Scott-Heron with Jamie xx, underscoring its lasting influence.

In addition to its chart success, Bland frequently performed “I’ll Take Care of You” during his live shows, including his memorable 1961 Apollo Theater concert.

The song has also been featured in music documentaries and retrospectives celebrating Bland’s career.

Lifted from : Bobby Bland releases his debut album : ‘Two Steps from the Blues’ (1961)

11 . Paolo Conte – Sotto Le Stelle Del Jazz

Paolo Conte’s “Sotto Le Stelle Del Jazz” is a track from his 1984 album “Paolo Conte.” The song showcases Conte’s signature blend of jazz and chanson influences, underscored by his gravelly voice and intricate piano arrangements.

While “Sotto Le Stelle Del Jazz” did not individually chart, the album itself was a testament to Conte’s growing prominence in European music, especially in Italy and France during the 1980s.

The track is emblematic of his nostalgic and cinematic approach to music, evoking scenes reminiscent of jazz clubs and vibrant social gatherings.

Paolo Conte frequently performed this piece in numerous live sets, including his concerts at prestigious venues such as the Olympia in Paris, where he gained a loyal audience.

Although the song did not secure any specific major awards, it remains a staple in his performances and is featured in several live recordings and compilations, such as the double album “Concerti” (1985).

The song has been a key part of his setlists, often accompanied by full orchestration that highlights his jazz band’s instrumentation, including brass and woodwinds.

Clips from “Sotto Le Stelle Del Jazz” have also been featured in televised concert specials and interviews about his work, further underlining its role in his extensive jazz repertoire.

Lifted from : Buon compleanno Paolo Conte. ‘Conte Senza Contare’

12 . Simon & Garfunkel – Sound Of Silence

Simon & Garfunkel’s “The Sound of Silence” was originally released on their 1964 debut album “Wednesday Morning, 3 A.M.,” though it initially found little success.

After the duo briefly split, producer Tom Wilson re-released the song in 1965 with overdubbed electric instrumentation, including contributions from session musicians such as guitarist Al Gorgoni and drummer Buddy Salzman.

This version was included on their 1966 album “Sounds of Silence,” becoming a monumental hit.

The single reached #1 on the Billboard Hot 100 in January 1966, remaining there for two weeks.

In Canada, it also achieved the top position, while it found notable success in Australia and several European markets.

The song earned recognition when performed during pivotal moments such as their famous set at the 1967 Monterey Pop Festival.

In 2013, it was inducted into the National Recording Registry by the Library of Congress for its cultural significance.

The track has been used in numerous films and shows, most notably in “The Graduate” (1967), further contributing to its widespread renown.

Various covers by artists including Disturbed, whose 2015 version reached #42 on the Billboard Hot 100, have also brought renewed attention to the song.

Lifted from : On TV today, Simon & Garfunkel at ‘Kraft Music Hall’ (1968)