Monday, February 12th: Screamin Jay Hawkins – I Put a Spell On You
Screamin’ Jay died on this day in 2000 after an emergency surgery from an aneurysm.
He co-wrote and recorded “I Put a Spell On You”. Apparently the producer got the whole band drunk for the recording! Jay didn’t remember the recording session and had to relearn the song by listening to that recording.
This song has been covered numerous times, notably by CCR and Annie Lennox.
Tuesday, February 13th: The Buggles – Video Killed The Radio Star
To celebrate World Radio Day! The theme this year is “A Century of Informing, Entertaining and Educating.” For a teeny bit of history, the first radio transmission was via morse code in 1894 in France. It was in 1906 that Canadian Reginald A. Fessenden made the first public wireless broadcast.
Wednesday, February 14th: Carly Simon – You’re So Vain
This song was originally titled “Bless You, Ben”. Also, there’s an uncredited musician on backing vocals – Mick Jagger! He happened to call the studio while backup vocals were being recorded. Carly asked if he’d like to contribute. He did!
Thursday, February 15th: Sly and the Family Stone – Everyday People
55 years ago on this date they celebrated their first #1 single on the US Singles Chart. It was #2 in Canada.
Friday, February 16th: Creedence Clearwater Revival – Up Around The Bend
John Fogerty wrote this track just days before heading out on tour in 1970. It was released as a single with “Run through the jungle” on the other side. This single reached #4 on the Billboard Hot 100 and has been covered by numerous musicians, including Elton John!
