Najat Aatabou

Najat Aatabou Biography: Born 19 May 1960, Khemisset, Morocco. Born into a traditional Berber family in the Atlas mountains, Aatabou gave her first public performance as a singer in 1983 while in her final year at law school. Her debut single, "J'en Ai Morre" ("I Am Sick Of It"), was released on cassette in the same year and credited simply to Najat, as she did not want her family to know about it (singing was not viewed as an acceptable career for a Berber woman). The song's lyrics were an angry protest at the treatment of women in Moroccan society. It became a huge local hit, selling over 450,000 copies in spite of being banned on radio and television. Following this success, and against the wishes of her family who had discovered her secret identity, she abandoned her studies and moved to Casablanca to pursue a career in music. Her subsequent songs continued to tackle social issues relating to the lives of Moroccan women in a direct and outspoken way, bringing her controversy and huge local cassette sales. Backed mainly by traditional North African and Arabic instruments, the bendir, a Berber kit drum, is always at the rhythmic heart of her music, with electric western instruments sometimes added (she has even experimented with synthesizers and drum machines). Wailing above this, Aatabou's raw but melodic voice often plays off a male chorus in a manner that echoes black American gospel singing. Discography: The Voice Of The Atlas (Globestyle 1991)****, Country Girls And City Women (Rounder 1997)****. Music Albums: Country Girls & City Women *Rounder Select02/11/1997The Voice Of The AtlasGlobe Style - (import)07/13/1999Source: Encyclopedia of Popular Music

Posted on: 5 August 2014 | 4:44 am

Najma

Biography: Born Najma Akhtar, 18 September 1962, Chelmsford, Essex, England. Akhtar began singing in 1984 having recently qualified as a chemical engineer. Winner of the Asian Song Contest held in Birmingham, England, in that year, she recorded an album in India in 1986 before releasing Qareeb, her international debut, a year later. Recorded in England, this album featured a selection of Ghazals (traditional eastern lyric love poems) put to melodies written by Akhtar and accompanied by a combination of traditional Asian and modern western musicians, including saxophonist Ray Carless. Qareeb was widely acclaimed and introduced western listeners to Akhtar's pure, soaring voice. Songs from the album were used for an international fashion show and in the film Sammy And Rosie Get Laid. Over the next two years Akhtar sang throughout the world, including performances as part of the WOMAD 1989 tour. In that year, Atish (meaning "fire') was released. It drew on a broader range of influences (everything from Indian film music to C&W), and although Najma's vocals were of her customary high standard and percussionist Talvin Singh was featured to good effect, it was an only partially successful mix. 1992"s Pukar - Calling You was notable for the reggae-influenced "Mousum Sahana" and a track based around her vocal improvisations. Throughout her musical career Akhtar's voice has also been used to add passion and colour to albums by a variety of artists ,including Andy Summers, Jah Wobble, Steve Coleman and Robert Plant/Jimmy Page. Forbidden Kiss was a modern adaptation of the film music of Indian composer Sachin Dev Burman. Discography: Qareeb (Triple Earth 1987)****, Atish (Triple Earth 1989)***, Pukar - Calling You (Last Minute Productions 1992)***, Forbidden Kiss - The Music Of S.D. Burman (Shanachie 1996)***, Vivid (2nd Sight 2002)***. Music Albums: Atish Shanachie Records 10/30/1990 Qareeb Shanachie Records n/a Forbidden Kiss Shanachie Records 06/18/1996 Pukar (Calling You) Mondo Melodia 01/27/1998 Vivid * ARK 21 03/11/2003 Source: Encyclopedia of Popular Music

Posted on: 4 August 2014 | 3:23 am

Evolution of Rock Music

In the earlier part of 1950s the world witnessed the birth of a popular music genre known as Rock Music. It is very difficult to pin point a particular song as the birth of rock, however, the most attention and credit goes to Rocket 88 by Jackie Brenston and Rock Around the Clock by Bill Haley and the comets. The new form of music with electric bass guitar and drums and cymbals was becoming increasingly popular and famous. Elvis Presley, in 1954, recorded a song at a studio in Tennessee and became a singing sensation. The new type of music was liked by other artists such as Chuck Berry, Little Richard, Carl Perkins, Jerry Lee Lewis, and many others. And by the end of 1950s and early 1960s Rock music hit United Kingdom. Rock artists toured Europe and their music was all over the radios, in streets, in clubs, and everywhere. Quarrymen was the most liked group in Europe at that time. The British were not going to stay behind. The Beatles made their debut in the USA in 1964. 73 Million People witnessed their debut. And in only three months’ time they were sitting on top 5 positions in Billboard Charts. Then came in Rolling Stones to rock the scene! A graphical presentation shows in detail how Rock music evolved since 1940s to date. Rock music dealt with a wide range of themes such as romantic love, rebellion against the established system, sex, social concerns and life styles. Addressing such a wide variety of concerns made this popular music even more liked around the globe. Rock is now one of the most listened to music genre in the world and some musicians believe that it can bring peace to the world. The title, ‘Rock & Roll Jihad’, of his book by Salman Ahmad explains it all! Source : http://www.ticketsmove.com/blog/music/evolution-of-rock-music/

Posted on: 19 July 2014 | 3:32 am

Nahawa Doumbia

Nahawa Doumbia Biography: Born Maf‚l‚, Mali. Wassoulou singer Nahawa Doumbia was orphaned at an early age. She started singing as a young child and her chosen style was very much that of the new era, as she did not share the privilege of hereditary jeli status enjoyed by Tata Bambo Kouyat‚ or Nahini Diabet‚. Instead her billing is that of the Fula singer, where music is not the profession handed down from parents. In 1982, Doumbia won the first prize at the Biennalle Artistique, launching her professional career. Her fame spread further the following year when she gained another trophy at Radio France Internationale's D‚couverte awards. By 1984 she was part of the entertainment package for the France-Afrique Summit Meeting, illustrating her rapid rise.After several cassette-only albums Doumbia made her debut proper in 1988 with her first European album, produced by Boncana Maiga for Syllart Records. Maigo brought in a team of experienced Cameroonian session players to help him perfect the follow-up, Nyama Toutou, released by Syllart and the Stern's Records label in 1990. Among many notable names on the credits was that of guitarist Rigo Star. He helped to forge a riveting collection of Bamana and Wassoulou music, updated through modern technological means into a melodic, dance-orientated whole.The follow-up albums Mangoni (1993) and Yankaw (1997) saw Doumbia consolidating the reputation established by Nyama Toutou, building the bridges that led to the crossover success of Yaala. Released in 2000, the input of French producer Claude Barth‚l‚my helped Doumbia and her band create a near perfect update of traditional Wassoulou music. During the same period, Doumbia appeared on Frederic Galliano's acclaimed Frikyiwa Collection 1. Discography: Didadi (Syllart 1988)***, Nyama Toutou (Syllart/Stern's 1990)****, Mangoni (Syllart/Stern's 1993)***, Yankaw (Cobalt 1997)***, Bougouni (Sono 1999)***, Yaala (Cobalt 2000)****, Diby (Cobalt 2004)***. Music Albums: DidadiShanachie Records06/01/1990Source: Encyclopedia of Popular Music

Posted on: 27 February 2014 | 8:43 pm

Admiral Bailey

Born Glendon Bailey, Kingston, Jamaica, West Indies. The Admiral first broke through with his infectious dancehall anthems and his distinctive military uniforms in 1986, when DJ Josey Wales took him to King Jammy's from U-Roy's King Sturgav Hi-Fi. The Waterhouse studio was alive with creativity, with Steely And Clevie constructing new digital rhythms and nurturing an impressive roster of artists. Bailey quickly proved himself, however, starting a run of hits with a duet with Chaka Demus, "One Scotch, One Bourbon, One Beer". This was followed by "Politician", "Chatty Chatty Mouth", "Ballot Box' (with Josey Wales) and 1987"s "Punany" - for which a radio ban necessitated the release of a more "innocent" version, "Healthy Body". Other singles, including "Big Belly Man", "Jump Up", "Top Celebrity Man" and "Cater For Woman", continued the successful run, and he released his debut set, Kill Them With It, the same year. DJ Papa Biggy produced "Neighbourhood Living" and "Newsflash Time" and Bailey also recorded tunes for Donovan Germain and Jah Life. Shabba Ranks' success somewhat overshadowed Bailey's hits, "No Way No Better Than Yard", "Don't Have Me Up", "Original Dela Move" and "Science', but they nevertheless sustained his profile. Ranks" success also prompted the assertive, "Think Me Did Done". When Ram Up You Party did not do as well as anticipated, Bailey's career declined slightly, with the exception of occasional recordings for Penthouse Records ("Help") in 1990 and Bobby Digital ("Ah Nuh Sin") in 1991. In 1993, he resumed work with King Jammy, the producer who has brought him the most sustained success. Discography: Kill Them With It (Jammys/Live & Love 1987)****, Undisputed (Dynamic 1988)***, Ram Up You Party (Powerhouse 1989)**, Born Champion (Jammys/Live & Love 1991)***. Music Albums Mi Big Up VP 10/16/1992 Original [Cassette] VP n/a Undisputed Champion Dynamic Sounds 04/20/2004 Source: Encyclopedia of Popular Music

Posted on: 8 January 2014 | 9:10 pm

Adina Howard

Biography Born Grand Rapids, Michigan, USA. With her 1995 debut, Do You Wanna Ride?, assertive soul singer Adina Howard managed to achieve commercial success as well as raising eyebrows with her volatile cocktail of sexually potent imagery and effusive R&Born The mainstream success of the attendant single, "Freak Like Me', helped pave the way for other upfront female R&B singers, including Foxy Brown and Lil' Kim. Peaking at number 7 in the Billboard R&B charts, the debut album's sales profile of over half a million copies was encouraging. The follow-up, 1997"s Welcome To Fantasy Island, opted for sensuality over sexuality: "(the lyrics) are not vulgar. I may say some things straight out, but for the most part, it's a pretty mature album." Howard was also more closely involved in the creative process, writing four of the songs and co-producing two others. However, the promotional single, "(Freak) And U Know It", at least maintained some of the titular traditions of the previous album. Discography: Do You Wanna Ride? (Mecca Don/Elektra 1995)***, Welcome To Fantasy Island (Mecca Don/Elektra 1997)***. Music Albums Do You Wanna Ride? EastWest America 02/28/1995 Welcome To Fantasy Island [PA] EastWest America 05/15/1998 Welcome To Fantasy Island [Edited] EastWest America 05/15/1998 The Second Coming * Rufftown Records 04/06/2004 Source: Encyclopedia of Popular Music

Posted on: 27 July 2013 | 3:00 pm

Adewale Ayuba

Biography Born Nigeria. One of the rising stars of Nigerian fuji, Ayuba made his domestic debut in 1991 with Bubble, and was immediately rewarded with the accolade "fuji artist of the year". Using the talking drum, shekeres (rattles), bells and bata drums, Ayuba led his band through call-and-response singing and a highly animated "wailing" style, with lyrics rooted in his conversion to the Muslim faith. The strength of the music, which is deliberately shorn of harmonic properties, lies in the propulsive rhythms created, and the intensity of the performances. Bubble was followed shortly by another collection, Mr Johnson Play For Me, performed with similar combative qualities though with a more readily detectable sparsity of sound, which distinguishes fuji from its parent music, juju (Mr Johnson Play For Me was released prior to his debut album on the international market). Discography: Mr Johnson Play For Me (Flame Tree 1992)***, Bubble (Flame Tree 1993)****. Music Albums Fuji Time Agogo (Qbadisc) 06/20/1996 Source: Encyclopedia of Popular Music

Posted on: 26 July 2013 | 9:55 pm

Adeva

Biography Born Patricia Daniels, 1960, Patterson, New Jersey, USA. The youngest of six children, Adeva joined a church choir at the age of 12 where she remained for 10 years, eventually becoming its director and vocal coach. Her mother was a missionary and her father a deacon, and her parents had once instructed, "You sing gospel or nothing at all." Between stints of teaching (for emotionally disturbed children), she found time to take part regularly in talent contests. She was eventually banned from entering several competitions for winning so often, and turned professional by starting out on the local club scene in the mid-80s. She teamed up with Mike Cameron of the Smack Productions team to record "In And Out Of My Life" for New York label Easy Street, before signing to Cooltempo Records in 1988. Her success in the singles chart, initially more considerable in the UK than the USA (where, strangely, her first three solo releases all went to number 17), included "Respect", "Warning", "I Thank You", "Beautiful Love", "Treat Me Right" and the collaboration with New York producer and recording artist Paul Simpson, "Musical Freedom (Moving On Up)". However, Adeva never quite made the commercial transition that was expected, and she was dropped by Cooltempo in August 1992. She later collaborated on minor chart singles with Frankie Knuckles and Hyper Go-Go. Discography: Adeva (Cooltempo 1989)***, Love Or Lust (Cooltempo 1991)**. Compilations: Hits (Cooltempo 1992)***. Videography: Live At The Town And Country Club (Chrysalis Music Video 1991). Music Albums Adeva! Capitol/EMI Records 06/26/1990 Love Or Lust * Capitol/EMI Records 11/05/1991 Source: Encyclopedia of Popular Music

Posted on: 25 July 2013 | 9:54 pm

Adema

Biography US nu-metal pioneers Korn spawned quite a few imitators in their path, such as the California-based Adema, but there is a legitimate reason why the two bands sound so similar - vocalist Mark "Marky' Chavez (Born 15 November 1978, Bakersfield, California, USA) is Korn lead singer Jonathan Davis" younger half brother. Adema comes from the same spawning ground as Korn, Bakersfield, California, and formed during the late 90s, when Chavez began playing with several other local musicians, including Dave DeRoo (Born 3 September 1974, Bakersfield, California, USA; bass) and Tim Fluckey (Born 23 January 1974, Illinois, USA; guitar). When second guitarist Mike Ransom (Born 12 April 1977, USA) and drummer Kris Kohls (Born Bakersfield, California, USA; ex-Videodrone) signed on, the final pieces to the Adema puzzle were in place, which resulted in a recording contract with the Arista Records label. The quintet relocated to a secluded section of northern California to finish writing and demoing the songs that would eventually comprise their major label debut. Recorded in Los Angeles, California with producers Bill Appleberry and Tobias Miller (guitarist with the original line-up of the Wallflowers), Adema delivered their self-titled debut album in August 2001. The tracks "Giving In" and "The Way You Like It" enjoyed notable success on the rock charts. A year later, Adema issued a seven-track stopgap EP, Insomniac's Dream. Their second album for Arista, Unstable, followed in 2003. The quintet signed a new recording contract with Earache Records following their departure from Arista. Discography: Adema (Arista 2001)***, Unstable (Arista 2003)**. Music Albums Adema [PA] Arista Records 08/21/2001 Adema [Edited] Arista Records 08/21/2001 Insomniac's Dream [ECD] [EP] [PA] Arista Records 10/22/2002 Unstable [ECD] [Edited] * Arista Records 08/19/2003 Unstable [ECD] [PA] * Arista Records 08/19/2003 Source: Encyclopedia of Popular Music

Posted on: 24 July 2013 | 10:00 pm

Adelaide Hall

Biography Born Adelaide Louisa Hall, 20 October 1901, Brooklyn, New York City, New York, USA, d. 7 November 1993, London, England. Though not a jazz singer, Hall became one of the most famous vocalists in jazz history through her wordless vocals on such Duke Ellington recordings as "Creole Love Call" and "The Blues I Love To Sing". Other numbers with which she was indelibly associated, included "Sophisticated Lady", "Old Fashioned Love", "Memories Of You", "Solitude", "Don't Get Around Much Anymore" and "Don't Worry 'Bout Me". Many of the songs she sang were written especially for her. Her fine soprano voice was developed by her father, a music professor. Like her friend, Lena Horne, her name will always be associated with Harlem's famous Cotton Club and the "greats" who gathered there, such as Ellington, Fats Waller and composer Harold Arlen. Hall, a self-taught tap dancer, played in a Eubie Blake-Noble Sissle show in the early 20s, and appeared in a series of revues, including Shuffle Along and Desires Of 1927. She starred in Lew Leslie's Blackbirds Of 1928, in a cast that also included Bill "Bojangles" Robinson, and Elisabeth Welch. The Dorothy Fields/Jimmy McHugh score introduced "Diga Diga Doo", "Doin' The New Low-Down", "I Can't Give You Anything But Love" and a pre-George Gershwin "Porgy". When the show transferred to the Moulin Rouge in Paris, Hall went with it, and stayed on to sing at the Lido. By this time she had married an English seaman, Bert Hicks. He opened a club for her, called La Grosse Pomme (The Big Apple), whose clientele included Django Reinhardt, Maurice Chevalier and Charles Boyer. In the early 30s she recorded with Duke Ellington and Willy Lewis in the USA, and was also accompanied by pianists Art Tatum and Joe Turner on a New York session which produced "This Time It's Love". During the rest of the decade she toured extensively in the USA and Europe, and by the late 30s had settled in Britain, where she lived for over 50 years. In 1938 Hall appeared at London's Theatre Royal, Drury Lane, in The Sun Never Sets, a musical in which she impressed audiences and critics with her version of Vivian Ellis' title song. In the same year she recorded four songs with Fats Waller in London: "That Old Feeling", "I Can't Give You Anything But Love", "Smoke Dreams" and "You Can't Have Your Cake And Eat It". With her husband, she opened the Florida Club in Bruton Mews, but it was destroyed during a bombing raid in World War II. Later she joined an ENSA company and was one of the first artists into Germany after the liberation. After the war Hall worked consistently, singing in theatres throughout the country, on cruise liners, and on her own radio show, accompanied by the Joe Loss Orchestra. In 1951 she starred in the London version of Cole Porter's Kiss Me, Kate, and, in the following year, sang "A Touch Of Voodoo" and "Kind To Animals" in Jack Gray and Hugh Martin's hit musical, Love From Judy, at the Saville Theatre. In 1957 she was back on Broadway, with Lena Horne, in Jamaica, which ran for over 500 performances. In 1963, shortly after opening a new club, the Calypso, in London's Regent Street, Adelaide's husband Bert died. During the 60s and 70s, Hall was out of the limelight, but in the 80s, came a renaissance, partly sparked by the release of Francis Ford Coppola's movie The Cotton CluBorn From then on she was in constant demand for cabaret at the Ritz Hotel, and other UK venues such as the Donmar Warehouse and the King's Head, Islington. In 1988, she presented her one-woman show at New York's Carnegie Hall, and three years later, was joined onstage at London's Queen Elizabeth Hall by artists such as Larry Adler, Ralph McTell and Roy Budd, in a concert to celebrate her 90th birthday. Compilations: That Wonderful Adelaide Hall (Columbia 1969)***, Hall Of Fame (Columbia 1970)***, Crooning Blackbird (EPM 1993)***, Red Hot From Harlem (Pearl 1994)***, A Centenary Collection (Avid 2002)***. Bibliography: Underneath A Harlem Moon, Iain Cameron Williams. Music Albums Crooning Blackbird: 1927-1939 EPM (France) 02/22/1996 A Centenary Collection * Avid 08/06/2004 Hall Of Fame Living Era 12/24/1992 Red Hot From Harlem Pearl 02/22/1994 Source: Encyclopedia of Popular Music

Posted on: 23 July 2013 | 9:36 pm

Adamski

Biography Born Adam Tinley, England. Adamski's first recordings were cut at the age of 11 as a member of the Stupid Babies, a pre-teen punk duo (with his brother) immortalized on the Fast Products Earcom 3 sampler. He was also a member of Diskord Datkord in 1987, who released one single - a cover version of X-Ray Spex's "Identity" (his brother subsequently formed Garden Of Eden). Adamski went on to record as a keyboard player on instrumental dance music records. His solo breakthrough came with the release of "N-R-G", which reached number 12 in the UK charts in January 1990. Unfortunately, legal action from Lucozade, who claimed the single plagiarized their advertising slogan, forced him to donate £5,000 of his royalties to charity. He replied with April's massive dancefloor hit and UK number 1, "Killer". This tautly orchestrated electronic piece was enhanced by the emotive vocals of guest vocalist Seal. September's follow-up, "The Space Jungle", which derived from "All Shook Up", was hammered by the critics, but still reached UK number 7. While his former vocalist went on to national adoration, Adamski slipped from view, although he did enjoy a minor hit with "Flashback Jack" at the end of 1990. An epitaph, of sorts, was offered on the Naughty track, "Take The Money And Run": "I've been chewed up and spat out by the restrictions of dance". Many critics judged such petulance as sour grapes following his commercial decline. The same year he joined with Elton John to remix "Medicine Man" for charity, but was not sighted for some time afterwards. He went on to form remix team the Jet Slags with Mr Monday, working on projects including Bump's "I'm Rushin'". He signed a new deal with ZTT Records and returned in July 1998 with a new single, "One Of The People", and the attendant Adamski's Thing. The album eschewed the hardcore sound of the earlier records for a mellow house vibe influenced by Adamski's visits to Ibiza. Discography: Liveandirect (MCA 1989)**, Dr. Adamski's Musical Pharmacy (MCA 1990)**, Naughty (MCA 1992)**, Adamski's Thing (ZTT/Uptown 1998)***. Videography: Liveandirect (MCA 1990). Music Albums Doctor Adamski's Musical Pharmacy MCA Records 12/11/1990 Liveandirect MCA Records 04/17/1990 Naughty * MCA Records 04/28/1992 Source: Encyclopedia of Popular Music

Posted on: 23 July 2013 | 8:00 am

Adam Freeland

Biography Born 7 August 1973, Welwyn Garden City, England. Like James Lavelle of Mo' Wax Records, Freeland rose to prominence as a dance music wnderkind, becoming a highly successful, DJ, remixer, club promoter and record label boss while still in his early twenties. Originally a deep house DJ, Freeland became known for seamlessly blending hip-hop and electro into his sets. He pioneered "nu-school breaks" - breakbeats with an eclectic range of influences including techno, drum 'n' bass and world music. Although DJing on the London club scene from 1992, his first mix compilation, Coastal Breaks, was not released until 1996. A double CD comprising 32 tracks, it received high praise from the critics and raised Freeland's profile, enabling him to tour in the UK and the USA. He won the admiration of many respected UK DJs such as Carl Cox, Sasha, the Chemical Brothers and Andy Weatherall. He supported Cox on several dates of his F.A.C.T. 2 world tour. In 1997, he ran a successful night, "Friction", in Soho, London with DJ friends, Rennie Pilgrem and Tayo. In that year, he also released a single with his friend Kevin Beber, "Number 43 With Steamed Rice Please" under the name Tsunami One. The popularity of the track in the clubs led to remix work for the Orb, DeeJay Punk-Roc, Headrillaz and Orbital. Freeland began 1998 by touring Australia with DJ Krush, Pressure Drop and Jos‚ Padilla. Coastal Breaks 2 was released and was a critical and commercial success. Further mix albums on the Marine Parade label preceded a surprise move by the DJ, which saw him forming his own band, Freeland, and performing a series of excellent live shows. The band's debut album, Now & Them, was released in September 2003. Discography: with Freeland Now & Them (Marine Parade 2003)***. Compilations: Coastal Breaks (Avex 1996)****, Coastal Breaks 2 (React 1998)****, Tectonics (Marine Parade 2000)***, On Tour (Marine Parade 2001)***, Fabriclive.16 (Fabric 2004)***. Music Albums Tectonics Ultra Records 05/30/2000 On Tour Kinetic 10/09/2001 Fabric Live 16 * Fabric Records (DJ) 08/24/2004 Source: Encyclopedia of Popular Music

Posted on: 22 July 2013 | 9:29 pm

Adam Ant

Biography Born Stuart Leslie Goddard, 3 November 1954, London, England. After an initially chequered, then immensely successful career leading Adam And The Ants, Goddard went solo in early 1982. For support, he retained old musical partner Marco Pirroni and relaunched himself with the frantic "Goody Two Shoes", which hit number 1 in the UK in May. The average "Friend Or Foe" followed at number 9, but thereafter the spell was broken. Phil Collins was recruited as producer to halt Adam's sudden decline and the pantomime-influenced "Puss In Boots" duly made the Top 5. The revival was only temporary, however, and by the end of 1983, Adam's chart career was practically non-existent. The original god of the "New Pop" seemed commercially bankrupt, his place taken by new idols such as Duran Duran, Culture Club and Wham!. Even an appearance at Live Aid in 1985 with "Vive Le Rock" could only produce a number 50 UK chart entry and Goddard switched adroitly to acting. A surprise chart comeback (number 13) in 1990 with "Room At The Top" appeared a lucky strike and did not seriously distract the singer from his thespian pursuits. A new album in 1995, promoted by concert appearances in West London, provoked further media saturation and good reviews, but little in terms of record sales. The next time Ant made the news was in a distressing series of incidents in the London area in January 2002, following which he was legally confined at the Royal Free Hospital under the 1983 Mental Health Act. He pleaded guilty to affray charges in August, and was sentenced to a year's community service and rehabilitation treatment in October. He was arrested again the following June. Discography: Friend Or Foe (CBS/Epic 1982)***, Strip (CBS/Epic 1983)**, Vive Le Rock (CBS/Epic 1985)**, Manners & Physique (MCA 1990)**, Wonderful (EMI/Capitol 1995)***. Compilations: Hits (CBS 1986)***, Antics In The Forbidden Zone (Columbia 1990)***, The Collection (Castle 1991)***, Antmusic: The Very Best Of Adam Ant (Arcade 1993)***, B-Side Babies (Epic/Legacy 1994)***, Super Hits (Epic/Legacy 1998)***, The Very Best Of Adam And The Ants (Columbia 1999)***, Antbox 3-CD box set (Columbia 2000)***. Videography: Prince Charming Revue (CBS Video 1982), Live In Japan aka Live In Tokyo (CBS Video/Arcade 1982), Hits (CBS/Fox Video 1986), Antmusic: The Very Best Of Adam Ant (Arcade Video 1993), AntVideo (Columbia 2000). Bibliography: Adam And The Ants, Mike West. Adam And The Ants, Chris Welch. Adam And The Ants, Fred and Judy Vermorel. Adam Ant Tribal Rock Special, Martha Rodriguez (design). The Official Adam Ant Story, James Maw. Adam And The Ants Kings: The Official Adam And The Ants Song Book, Stephen Lavers. Filmography: Jubilee (1977), Nomads (1986), Slamdance (1987), Cold Steel (1987), World Gone Wild (1988), Spellcaster (1988), Trust Me (1989), Sunset Heat aka Midnight Heat (1991), Love Bites (1993), Acting On Impulse aka Eyes Of A Stranger (1993), Drop Dead Rock (1995), Desert Winds (1995), Cyber Bandits (1995), Lover's Knot (1996), Sweetwater (1999). Music Albums B-Side Babies Legacy Recordings 09/27/1994 Wonderful Capitol/EMI Records 03/07/1995 Super Hits Epic 01/27/1998 Goody Two Shoes Sony Music Special Products 09/30/2002 The Essential Adam Ant * Legacy Recordings 04/01/2003 Antics In The Forbidden Zone Legacy Rock Artifacts Series 10/30/1990 Friend Or Foe Epic 07/01/1986 Manners And Physique MCA Records 02/06/1990 Strip Epic 08/21/1984 Vive Le Rock Epic 04/02/1996 Source: Encyclopedia of Popular Music

Posted on: 17 July 2013 | 6:00 pm

Acker Bilk

Biography Born Bernard Stanley Bilk, 28 January 1929, Pensford, Somerset, England. A self-taught clarinettist, Bilk made his first public appearance in 1947 while on National Service in Egypt. On his return to the UK, he played as a semi-professional around the Bristol area, before gaining his big break with the Ken Colyer band in 1954. Four years later, under the name "Mr" Acker Bilk, he enjoyed his first UK Top 10 hit with "Summer Set". Backed by the Paramount Jazz Band, and promoted by his Bilk Marketing Board, he was at the forefront of the British traditional jazz boom of the early 60s. With their distinctive uniform of bowler hats and striped waistcoats, Bilk and company enjoyed a number of jazzy UK hits in the 60s, including "White Cliffs Of Dover", "Buona Sera", "That's My Home", "Stars And Stripes Forever", "Frankie And Johnny", "Gotta See Baby Tonight", and "A Taste Of Honey". However, it was with the Leon Young String Chorale that Bilk achieved his most remarkable hit. "Stranger On The Shore" was a US number 1 in May 1962, and peaked at number 2 in the UK, staying for a record-breaking 55 weeks in the bestsellers. Although the beat boom all but ended the careers of many traditional jazzmen, Bilk has continued to enjoy a successful career in cabaret and concerts, and returned to the Top 10 in 1976, again with a string backing, with "Aria". He continues to tour regularly alongside contemporaries such as Kenny Ball and Chris Barber. The trio had a number 1 album, The Best Of Ball, Barber And Bilk, in 1962. Bilk remains a major figure in traditional jazz, and more than 30 years after "Stranger On The Shore" gained an Ivor Novello Award for "Most Performed Work". Discography: Mr. Acker Requests (Pye 1958)***, Mr. Acker Marches On (Pye 1958)***, Mr. Acker Bilk Sings (Pye 1959)**, Mr. Acker Bilk Requests (Part One) (Pye 1959)***, Mr. Acker Bilk Requests (Part Two) (Pye 1959)***, The Noble Art Of Mr. Acker Bilk (Pye 1959)***, Seven Ages Of Acker (Columbia 1960)****, Mr. Acker Bilk's Omnibus (Pye 1960)***, Acker (Columbia 1960)***, A Golden Treasury Of Bilk (Columbia 1961)****, Mr. Acker Bilk's Lansdowne Folio (Columbia 1961)***, Stranger On The Shore (Columbia 1961)****, Above The Stars And Other Romantic Fancies (Columbia 1962)***, A Taste Of Honey (Columbia 1963)****, Great Themes From Great European Movies (Columbia 1965)**, Acker In Paris (Columbia 1966)***, with the Stan Tracey Big Brass Blue Acker (Columbia 1968)****, with the Stan Tracey Strings Horn Of Plenty (Columbia 1971)***, Some Of My Favourite Things (PRT 1973)***, That's My Desire (PRT 1974)***, Serenade (PRT 1975)***, The One For Me (PRT 1976)***, Invitation (PRT 1977)***, Meanwhile (PRT 1977)***, Sheer Magic (Warwick 1977)***, Extremely Live In Studio 1 (PRT 1978)**, Free (PRT 1978)***, When The Lights Are Low (PRT 1978)***, with Max Bygraves Twogether (Piccadilly 1980)**, Unissued Acker (PRT 1980)***, Made In Hungary (PRT 1980)***, The Moment I'm With You (PRT 1980)***, Mama Told Me So (PRT 1980)***, Relaxin' (PRT 1981)***, Wereldsuccessen (Philips 1982)***, I Think The Best Thing About This Record Is The Music (Bell 1982)**, Acker Bilk In Holland (Timeless 1985)**, Nature Boy (PRT 1985)***, Acker's Choice (Teldec 1985)***, John, Paul And Acker (PRT 1986)**, Love Songs My Way (Topline 1987)**, On Stage (Start 1988)***, with Ken Colyer It Looks Like A Big Time Tonight (Stomp Off 1988)***, That's My Home (Pickwick 1988)***, The Love Album (Pickwick 1989)***, Imagine (Pulse 1991)**, Blaze Away (Timeless 1990)****, Heartbeats (Pickwick 1991)***, with Humphrey Lyttelton At Sundown (Calligraph 1992)****, with Lyttelton Three In The Morning (Calligraph 1995)****, Chalumeau That's My Home (Apricot 1995)****, Oscar Winners (Carlton 1995)**. Compilations: The Best Of Ball, Barber And Bilk (Pye 1962)****, Golden Hour Of Acker Bilk (Knight 1974)****, Evergreen (Warwick 1978)***, The Acker Bilk Saga (Polydor 1979)***, Spotlight On Acker Bilk (PRT 1980)***, 100 Minutes Of Bilk (PRT 1982)****, Spotlight On Acker Bilk Vol. 2 (PRT 1982)***, I'm In The Mood For Love (Philips 1983)***, Finest Moments (Castle 1986)***, Magic Clarinet Of Acker Bilk (K-Tel 1986)***, 16 Golden Memories (Spectrum 1988)***, Best Of Acker Bilk His Clarinet And Strings (PRT 1988)***, Hits Blues And Classics (Kaz 1988)***, The Collection (Castle 1989)***, Images (Knight 1989)***, After Midnight (Pickwick 1990)***, In A Mellow Mood (Castle 1992)***, Reflections (Spectrum 1993)***, Acker Bilk Songbook (Tring 1993)***, Bridge Over Troubled Water (Spectrum 1995)**, All The Hits Plus More (Prestige 1997)***, Mr. Acker Bilk And His Paramount Jazz Band (Castle 2001)****. Bibliography: The Book Of Bilk, Peter Leslie and Patrick Gwynn-Jones. Acker Bilk, Gordon Williams. Filmography: It's Trad, Dad! (1962), It's All Over Town (1964). Music Albums More Of The Best Laserlight 10/29/1996 Some Of The Best Laserlight 10/29/1996 Classic Themes Crimson Productions 10/13/1998 The Very Best Of Mr. Acker Bilk Taragon Records 02/17/1998 Acker Bilk & His Orchestra Music & Romance (Import-Holland) 08/03/1999 The Frankfurt Concert Hitchcock Media 10/10/2000 In A Mellow Mood St. Clair 08/29/1996 Best Of St. Clair 01/21/1997 All The Hits Plus More Dressed To Kill - (import) 08/28/2001 Sweet Georgia Brown Traditional Line (Import) 10/08/2002 At The Movies * Fabulous 11/25/2003 After Midnight Pickwick 03/16/1993 Best Of...His Clarinet & Strings GNP/Crescendo n/a Best Of Acker Bilk, Vol II [Cassette] GNP/Crescendo n/a Golden Instrumental Hits Laserlight 10/22/1991 Heartbeats Pickwick 01/15/1992 Love Songs Pickwick n/a Plays Lennon & McCartney GNP/Crescendo 04/07/1989 Some Of My Favorite Things Compleat n/a The Magic Clarinet Of Acker Bilk Dominion 1987 Source: Encyclopedia of Popular Music

Posted on: 17 July 2013 | 4:00 pm

A Certain Ratio

Biography No UK act crystallized independent, punk-influenced funk more than Manchester's A Certain Ratio. The original line-up comprised Jeremy Kerr (bass), Simon Topping (vocals, trumpet), Peter Terrell (guitar), Martin Moscrop (guitar, trumpet), Martha Tilson (vocals, ex-Occult Chemistry), who joined a little later, although she had left by 1982, and Donald Johnson (drums) who replaced a drum machine. They signed to Factory Records in 1979 for the cassette release, The Graveyard And The Ballroom. One side was recorded at Graveyard Studios, the other live, supporting Talking Heads at London's Electric Ballroom. After releasing "All Night Party" in May 1979, there was a hiatus before "Flight", a UK Independent Top 10 hit over a year later. In the meantime, the band had teamed up with Factory's European sister company Benelux, for a cover version of Banbarra's mid-70s funk classic "Shack Up", in July 1980. This edgy but rhythmic version offered an excellent snapshot of the band's innovative studio technique. To Each ", the band's official debut album, attracted BBC disc jockey John Peel in 1981, a year that also yielded "Do The Du" (officially intended for release in the USA), and in December "Waterline" also fared well. The following year saw a move from the independent to the national charts as Sextet further established the band's reputation. Like To Each ", Sextet housed an intriguing, mostly instrumental collection hinged around funk rhythms. A 12-inch single for Benelux, 'Guess Who", surfaced in July, followed by the Knife Slits Water EP in October, coinciding with the release of I'd Like To See You Again. The band also issued an obscure 12-inch single on the Rock Steady label, "Abracadabra", under the guise of Sir Horatio, in September 1982. A year later, "I Need Someone Tonight" was released, reaching the UK Independent Top 10. Topping and Terrell had departed, the former resurfacing in 1987 with Mike Pickering as acid house innovators T-Coy. The duo were replaced by Andrew Connell, and "Brazilia" became the new line-up's first project of 1985. "Wild Party", in June, featured new saxophonist Tony Quigley. Those anticipating a new album had to wait until the end of 1986 for Force, although a compilation, The Old & The New, had provided some consolation earlier in the year. "Mickey Way" promoted Force and continued ACR's run of independent hits. By 1987, the band had outgrown the confines of mere cult status and, looking to branch out, signed with A&M Records. To bridge the gap, the Dojo label issued A Certain Ratio - Live In America in February, alongside "Greetings Four", for the European label Materiali Sonari. It was not until the summer of 1989 that new ACR product arrived, and both "The Big E" and "Backs To The Wall" revealed a shift towards a more accessible sound. However, neither of these, nor "Your Blue Eyes" in October, the Four For The Floor EP in February 1990, nor "Won't Stop Loving You" in May, could provide that elusive hit. As a result Good Together and ACR:MCR made little impact and A Certain Ratio left A&M soon afterwards. The band then moved to New Order manager Rob Gretton's Rob's Records, although Creation Records reissued their back catalogue and also unveiled a sampler album of re-mixes from their vast discography (including contributions from Electronic and 808 State). Their experimental work and love of collage material has ensured their status as one of the most uncompromisingly original acts working in the post-punk era. Change The Station was the first album of new material in seven years. Discography: The Graveyard And The Ballroom cassette (Factory 1980)**, To Each " (Factory 1981)****, Sextet (Factory 1982)***, I'd Like To See You Again (Factory 1982)***, Force (Factory 1986)***, A Certain Ratio - Live In America (Dojo 1987)**, Good Together (A&M 1989)***, ACR:MCR (A&M 1990)***, Up In Downsville (Rob's 1992)***, Looking For A Certain Ratio remixes (Creation 1994)***, Change The Station (Rob's 1997)***. Compilations: The Old & The New (Factory 1986)***, Early (Soul Jazz 2002)****. Music Albums Sextet * Creation n/a To Each... Creation n/a Live In America Castle Communications - (import) 1987 Source: Encyclopedia of Popular Music

Posted on: 17 July 2013 | 1:30 pm

Ace Of Base

Biography This Swedish pop band achieved their breakthrough in 1993 with the worldwide number 1, "All That She Wants". The comparisons to a fellow Swedish band seemed obvious - two female vocalists, one blonde, one brunette, and two male musicians, playing catchy dance-inflected pop music. The band, who originally recorded as Tech Noir, was formed by two sisters, Malin Berggren (Born 31 October 1970, Gothenburg, Sweden; vocals) and Jenny Berggren (Born 19 May 1972, Gothenburg, Sweden; vocals), and their brother Jonas Berggren (Born 21 March 1967, Gothenburg, Sweden; programming), with fourth member Ulf Ekberg (Born 6 December 1970, Gothenburg, Sweden; programming). Before their breakthrough the sisters sang in church choirs in their native Gothenburg, while brother Jonas and close friend Ekberg perfected their expertise in new technology. Their chart-friendly combination of pop and reggae was further revealed on "Wheel Of Fortune", "Happy Nation", "Waiting For Magic" and the hugely popular "The Sign" (US number 1/UK number 2), while their debut album went to number 1 in six countries, selling over 21 million copies. They enjoyed further worldwide success with "Don't Turn Around", a cover version of Aswad's pop-reggae standard. Their second album, The Bridge, was released at the end of 1995 and saw the band move away from reggae basslines to encompass more mature, considered songwriting. While "Ravine" expressed their Christianity, "Experience Pearls" saw them move in the direction of sophisticated Euro pop. It was far from the unholy music experience some critics imagined, despite the band's continued inability to negotiate English-language lyrics with anything approaching subtlety. They debuted at UK number 5 in August 1998 with the catchy "Life Is A Flower", and enjoyed transatlantic chart success with a cover version of Bananarama's "Cruel Summer" (US number 10/UK number 8) The attendant album was a disappointingly bland affair. The following year's singles compilation (and its US counterpart) provides the perfect way to enjoy Ace Of Base's innocuous Europop. Discography: Happy Nation (Mega/London 1993)***, The Sign US only (Arista 1993)***, The Bridge (Mega/London/Arista 1995)***, Flowers (UK) Cruel Summer (US) (London/Arista 1998)**. Compilations: Singles Of The 90s (Polydor 1999)****, Greatest Hits (Arista 2000)****, The Collection (Spectrum 2002)***. Videography: Happy Nation: Home Video (Mega 1993), The Sign: Home Video (Arista 1994). Music Albums The Bridge Arista Records 11/14/1995 Cruel Summer Arista Records 07/14/1998 Greatest Hits Arista Records 04/18/2000 Bridge BMG Special Products 05/21/2002 Platinum & Gold Collection * BMG Heritage 05/06/2003 The Sign Arista Records 10/12/1993 Source: Encyclopedia of Popular Music

Posted on: 16 July 2013 | 9:00 pm

Accept

Biography This German heavy rock quintet originally comprised Udo Dirkschneider (vocals), Gerhard Wahl (guitar) and Wolf Hoffman (Born 10 December 1959, Mainz, Germany; guitar), Frank Friedrich (drums) and Peter Baltes (bass). Formed in 1976 in their hometown of Solingen, Jorg Fischer replaced Wahl in 1978. The band's power metal sound was characterized by Dirkschneider's guttural howl and the speed drumming of Stefan Kaufmann, who replaced Friedrich after their 1979 debut. Fischer left in 1982 following a tour supporting Judas Priest (although he did return briefly in 1983). Restless & Wild, from 1983, epitomized their blitzing style, which had an undeniable influence on the thrash movement that developed during the late 80s. Metal Heart adopted a more melodic approach, but, unhappy with this style, Dirkschneider left and formed his own outfit, Udo. A series of replacement vocalists came and went, including Rob Armitage (ex-Baby Tuckoo), David Reece and Jim Stacey (Stacey stepped in to complete tracks on Eat The Heat after Reece and Baltes had a physical confrontation on tour in the USA). Several lacklustre albums were released during these years that received little critical acclaim or commercial reward. Internal problems persisted, with Kaufmann contracting a muscular disease and being replaced by Ken Mary (House Of Lords). However, the band eventually disintegrated in 1989. Reece went on to form Bangalore Choir while old sparring partner Baltes contributed to Dokken. The band reunited in the 90s with a revised line-up including Dirkschneider, Hoffman, Baltes and Kaufmann, releasing several low-key albums before disbanding once more. Discography: Accept (Brain 1979)***, I'm A Rebel (Logo 1980)***, Breaker (Brain 1981)***, Restless & Wild (Heavy Metal 1983)***, Balls To The Wall (Portrait 1984)****, Metal Heart (Portrait 1985)***, Kaizoku-Ban (Portrait 1986)**, Russian Roulette (Portrait 1986)***, Eat The Heat (RCA 1989)**, Staying A Life: Live In Japan (Epic 1990)***, Objection Overruled (RCA 1993)***, Death Row (Pavement 1995)***, Steel Glove (Castle 1996)**, Predator (Sweat Shop 1997)***, The Final Chapter (CMC International 1998)*** Compilations: Best Of Accept (Metronome 1983)***, Accept (Portrait 1986)***, Hungry Years (Razor 1991)***, The Collection (Castle 1991)***, Steel Glove: The Collection (Castle 1995)***, All Areas Worldwide (Gun 1998)**, Classics: Rockers 'N' Ballads (BMG 2002)***. Music Albums Double CD CMC International n/a Death Row Nuclear Blast Records 08/08/2000 The Final Chapter CMC International 01/13/1998 Breaker [Digipak] Breaker Records (Germany) 06/01/2004 No Substitutes Sony Music Special Products 12/01/1995 I'm A Rebel [Remaster] Nuclear Blast Records 10/31/2000 Objection Overruled Nuclear Blast Records 05/09/2000 Restless And Wild (Breaker) [Digipak] Breaker Records (Germany) 06/01/2004 I'm A Rebel (Breaker) [Digipak] Breaker Records (Germany) 06/01/2004 Accept [Digipak] Breaker Records (Germany) 06/01/2004 Balls To The Wall [Remaster] Legacy Recordings 08/28/2001 Compilation Portrait 07/15/1986 Eat The Heat Epic 05/30/1989 Hungry Years Castle Communications - (import) n/a Metal Heart Portrait 05/24/1985 Restless And Wild [Remaster] Epic 10/31/2000 Russian Roulette Portrait 07/01/1986 Staying A Life Epic 11/20/1990 Source: Encyclopedia of Popular Music

Posted on: 16 July 2013 | 5:00 pm

Ace Frehley

Biography Born Paul Frehley, 22 April 1951, Bronx, New York, USA. Ace Frehley rose to fame as the lead guitarist for premier US hard rock band Kiss during its prime years. Often nicknamed "Space Ace" by fans, Frehley released his first, self-titled solo album in September 1978, with albums by the other three members of Kiss also recorded simultaneously. Released on Casablanca Records, the album, which found the guitarist attempting more diverse musical styles than he was allowed to follow within the context of Kiss, reached the Top 30 and spawned a number 13 single, the Russ Ballard-penned "New York Groove". Frehley left Kiss in December 1982 following a near-fatal car accident, and attempted to free himself of a drug habit over the next four years. He formed his own band, Frehley's Comet, in 1987, with whom he recorded three studio albums. He rejoined Kiss on their successful reunion tour in 1996. Official Website Discography: Ace Frehley (Casablanca 1978)***. Compilations: 12 Picks (SPV/Steamhammer 1997)***, Loaded Decks (SPV 1998)***. Music Albums Ace Frehley [Remaster] Mercury 09/16/1997 Trouble Walkin' Megaforce 10/15/1989 12 Picks Megaforce 04/08/1997 Loaded Deck * Megaforce 01/20/1998 Source: Encyclopedia of Popular Music

Posted on: 16 July 2013 | 12:35 am

A.C.

Biography Formed in Boston, Massachusetts, USA, in 1988, A.C.'s career has proved as unconventional as the white-knuckle noise they produce. Their first record was a split 7-inch single in 1988, followed by a number of limited pressing singles and EPs (the best of which was the Morbid Florist EP), and compilation appearances. There was also a scarcely credible 7-inch with 5,345 "tracks" on it. They quickly earned themselves a reputation for what even veteran thrash metal observers decried as "merely noise". Spokesperson Seth admitted in the 90s that they "broke up because our old guitarist didn't know how to play anything else on guitar". They soon re-formed, however, with a new, more able guitarist, and a contract with Earache Records for Everyone Should Be Killed (only 58 songs, this time), which was described by the band itself as sounding: "like a vacuum cleaner with us screaming over it". Top 40 Hits was a little more restrained still, though dire production merely exacerbated the inaccessibility. However, cover versions of Elton John's "I'm Still Standing" and the theme from the US television programme The A-Team offered light relief. The best things about the unrelentingly dreary 40 More Reasons To Hate Us and I Like It When You Die were the album titles. Discography: Everyone Should Be Killed (Earache 1994)**, Top 40 Hits (Earache 1995)**, 40 More Reasons To Hate Us (Earache 1996)**, I Like It When You Die (Earache 1997)**. Music Albums Everyone Should Be Killed Earache 05/24/1994 Top 40 Hits Earache 03/07/1995 40 More Reasons To Hate Us Earache 03/26/1996 I Like It When You Die Earache 02/11/1997 Picnic Of Love Conquest Music Group 07/28/1998 It Just Gets Worse Earache 09/07/1999 Morbid Florist Relapse Records 03/06/1998 Old Stuff, Part Two Devour 03/21/1998 The Early Years: 1988-1991 [PA] * Artemis Records 10/10/2000 Source: Encyclopedia of Popular Music

Posted on: 16 July 2013 | 12:30 am

Ace Cannon

Biography Born Johnny Cannon, 5 May 1934, Grenada, Mississippi, USA. Saxophonist Ace Cannon is best remembered for his 1962 US Top 20 single "Tuff", on Hi Records. He began playing saxophone at the age of 10 and started working with country bands in Memphis in his teens. In the mid-50s he joined the band of Sun Records artist Billy Lee Riley. In early 1960 Cannon joined the Bill Black Combo and stayed for nearly two years. He signed as a solo artist with Hi in 1961 and recorded "Tuff', a song dating back to the 20s. Cannon placed four further singles on the charts, although none was as popular as the first. He stayed with Hi Records until the label expired in the late 70s. He then recorded for other, smaller labels and appeared on the Class Of "55 album with fellow Memphis artists Jerry Lee Lewis, Carl Perkins, Johnny Cash and Roy Orbison. Discography: Tuff Sax (Hi 1962)****, Looking Back (Hi 1962)***, The Moanin' Sax Of Ace Cannon (Hi 1963)***, Aces High (Hi 1964)***, The Great Show Tunes (Hi 1964)**, Christmas Cheers (Hi 1964)*. Music Albums Hank Williams Songbook By K-Tel 07/30/1996 Best Of Ace Cannon Curb Records 10/29/1996 Misty Sax/Memphis Hits Hi Records (UK) 01/16/1996 The Hi Masters Hi Records (UK) 09/15/1998 Golden Favorites Ranwood Records 04/16/1995 Entertainer Deluxe 09/18/1997 Tuff Sax/Moanin' Sax Hi Records (UK) 09/05/1994 The Very Best Of Ace Cannon Laserlight 09/01/1998 Best Of The Best Federal Records 03/15/2000 Blues Sax For The Millenium RMD Records 01/04/2000 The Best Of The Hi Records Years The Right Stuff 04/10/2001 Plays Gold Favorites Power Pak 1995 Unsafe Sax King Records 02/27/1996 22 All-Time Greatest Hits King Records 2002 The Greatest Hits Of * Classic World Productions, Inc. 2002 16 Greatest Hits Deluxe n/a Aces High/Plays The Great Show Hi Records (UK) 07/15/1993 Golden Classics Deluxe 03/11/1994 Source: Encyclopedia of Popular Music

Posted on: 15 July 2013 | 1:00 am

Ace

Biography Formed in the UK during December 1972 and originally called Ace Flash And The Dynamos - quickly abbreviated after a couple of gigs - Ace comprised Paul Carrack (Born 22 April 1951, Sheffield, Yorkshire, England; keyboards, vocals), Alan "Bam" King (Born 18 September 1946, Kentish Town, London, England; guitar, vocals), Phil Harris (Born 18 July 1948, Muswell Hill, London, England; guitar, vocals), Terry "Tex" Comer (Born 23 February 1949, Burnley, Lancashire, England; bass) and Steve Witherington (Born 26 December 1953, Enfield, Middlesex, England; drums). The members were assembled from known bands and were all solid musicians. Carrack and Comer came from Warm Dust, and King arrived via Mighty Baby, whose antecedents were the highly regarded 60s band the Action. Ace became one of the darlings of the UK pub rock circuit with their polished funky pop music. Before the recording of their first album, ex-Bees Make Honey drummer Fran Byrne (Born 17 March 1948, Dublin, Ireland) had replaced Witherington. The album, Five-A-Side, was a creditable debut. The single "How Long", culled from this record, gave them an enormous hit that they were never able to repeat. It was a perfectly crafted song with a hypnotic bass introduction directly "borrowed" from "Travelling Song" by Pentangle, followed by Carrack's sweet electric piano. The simple tale of infidelity captured people's attention and it became a Top 20 hit in the UK and reached number 3 in the USA. They eventually moved to America but disbanded in July 1977 when most of the remaining members joined Frankie Miller's band. Carrack has enjoyed most success, playing in Eric Clapton's band, joining Squeeze, and latterly playing with Mike And The Mechanics. Carrack re-recorded "How Long", which became a UK Top 40 hit again in 1996. Discography: Five-A-Side (Anchor 1974)***, Time For Another (Anchor 1975)**, No Strings (Anchor 1977)**. Compilations: The Best Of Ace (See For Miles 1987)***, How Long: The Best Of Ace (Music Club 1993)***. Music Albums Cool Spirit Music Orchard Records 07/13/1999 The Best of Ace * Varese Sarabande 10/07/2003 How Long: The Best Of Ace See For Miles Records - (import) 12/16/1994 Source: Encyclopedia of Popular Music

Posted on: 14 July 2013 | 11:35 pm

A.Born Skhy

Biography This San Francisco-based quartet included Dennis Geyer (guitar), Howard Wales (keyboards), Jim Marcotte (bass) and Terry Andersen (drums). A seven-piece horn section supported the group on their debut album, a blues-based set modelled on BornBorn King and Bobby Bland. Following the departures of Andersen and Wales, the remaining members continued with newcomers Rick Jaeger (drums) and James "Curley' Cooke (guitar). The latter was a founder member of the Steve Miller Band, and a former colleague of Geyer in an earlier group, Tim Davis And The Chordaires. Ramblin' On was produced by the notorious Kim Fowley. This informal collection showcased the group's instrumental muscle and featured cameo performances from guitarist Elvin Bishop and pianist Ben Sidran. However, the group failed to secure a commercial success and broke up during sessions for a projected third album. Founder member Wales later enjoyed a brief association with the Grateful Dead, and recorded 1971"s experimental Hooteroll with the latter's guitarist, Jerry Garcia. Discography: A.Born Skhy (MGM 1969)**, Ramblin' On (MGM 1970)**. Music Albums A.Born Skhy One Way Records 05/26/1994 Source: Encyclopedia of Popular Music

Posted on: 14 July 2013 | 9:00 pm

ABC

Biography Purveyors of "perfect pop" in the early 80s, ABC's sound has always been dominated by the stunning vocal range and lyrical songwriting skills of lead singer Martin Fry (Born 9 March 1958, Manchester, England). The band was formed after Fry had interviewed Mark White (Born 1 April 1961, Sheffield, Yorkshire, England; guitar) and Stephen Singleton (Born 17 April 1959, Sheffield, Yorkshire, England; saxophone), two members of Sheffield-based electronic outfit Vice Versa, for his fanzine Modern Drugs. Accepting the invitation to join as vocalist, Fry took artistic control of the act, changing the name to ABC, as well as altering the musical direction towards a more pop-orientated course. The band was completed by the arrival of temporary bass player Mark Lickley and drummer David Robinson, although the latter was soon replaced by David Palmer (Born 29 May 1961, Chesterfield, Derbyshire, England). ABC's debut single "Tears Are Not Enough", featuring Robinson, was released on their own Neutron label. The song made the UK Top 20 in late 1981, but it was the following year that cemented ABC's reputation, with three UK Top 10 hits in a seven-month period: "Poison Arrow", "The Look Of Love" and "All Of My Heart". Their pristine pop songs were nowhere better showcased than on the superb The Lexicon Of Love. This Trevor Horn-produced album remains a benchmark of 80s pop, and a formidable collection of melodramatic love songs assembled in one neat package. The album reached number 1 and stayed in the UK charts for a year, and broke into the US Top 30. The follow-up Beauty Stab was recorded as a trio following Palmer's defection to the Yellow Magic Orchestra. The relative failure of the album to emulate the debut's success resulted in further personnel upheaval, and by 1984, only Fry and White remained from the original line-up. They continued as ABC, using session musicians and undergoing a change of image for the promotion of How To Be A ... Zillionaire!, almost to the extent of becoming caricatures. This image, particularly in videos, gave the band some success in the USA with "Be Near Me" reaching the Top 10 in 1985 and "(How To Be A) Millionaire" peaking at number 20 the following January. Fry became seriously ill in 1986 and was absent for over a year while he received treatment for Hodgkin's disease. He teamed up with White once more for 1987's memorable UK Top 20/US Top 5 hit, "When Smokey Sings", although the attendant Alphabet City failed to match the success of their debut album. A move to Parlophone Records at the start of the 90s failed to revive ABC's fortunes. By the middle of the decade, only Fry remained from the original line-up with White having departed to become a Reiki master. His voice remained intact but in desperate need of songs of the standard of ABC's 80s heyday. Skyscraping was a good attempt at recreating the "classic" ABC sound, but sounded dated in an era dominated by urban music. Since the album's release Fry has continued to lead ABC on the 80s revival circuit. Discography: The Lexicon Of Love (Neutron/Mercury 1982)*****, Beauty Stab (Neutron/Mercury 1983)***, How To Be A ... Zillionaire! (Neutron/Mercury 1985)***, Alphabet City (Neutron/Mercury 1987)***, Up (Neutron/Mercury 1989)***, Abracadabra (Parlophone/MCA 1991)**, Skyscraping (Blatant/Deconstruction 1997)***, Lexicon Of Live (Blatant 1999)***, The Lexicon Of Love: Deluxe Edition (Universal 2004)*****. Compilations: Absolutely (Neutron/Mercury 1990)***, The Remix Collection (Connoisseur 1993)***, The Best Of ABC: The Millennium Collection (Mercury 2000)***, Hello! An Introduction To ABC (Mercury 2001)***, Look Of Love: The Very Best Of ABC (Mercury 2001)****, Poison Arrow (Spectrum 2002)**. Videography: Mantrap (Pioneer 1983), The Suburbs Of Alphabet City (Arista 1987), Absolutely (PolyGram Music Video 1990). Music Albums The Collection Karussell--MRA 05/07/1996 The Lexicon Of Live Koch Records 06/27/2000 20th Century Masters: The Millennium... Mercury 06/27/2000 The Look Of Love: The Very Best Of ABC * Mercury 06/04/2002 Abracadabra MCA Records 10/01/1991 Absolutely ABC Mercury 08/21/1990 Alphabet City Mercury 1987 Beauty Stab Mercury n/a How To Be A Zillionaire Mercury 1985 Say It [EP] MCA Records 10/22/1991 The Lexicon Of Love Mercury 02/05/2002 Up Mercury 11/21/1989 Source: Encyclopedia of Popular Music

Posted on: 14 July 2013 | 12:00 am

Abbey Lincoln

Biography Born Anna Marie Wooldridge, 6 August 1930, Chicago, Illinois, USA. Lincoln began singing publicly in the early 50s, working in Chicago nightclubs and using a variety of pseudonyms, including Anna Marie and Gaby Lee, as well as her real name. By the middle of the decade she was using the name by which she has since been largely known. She appeared successfully at the Moulin Rouge in Los Angeles and also made her first records, with Benny Carter, but was soon associating with bop musicians including Thelonious Monk, Mal Waldron and Max Roach. Her style changed during these years and following her marriage to Roach in 1962 she also became more politically aware. She wrote some of her own material, much of it stressing the rising tide of black consciousness in the USA. She collaborated with Roach on some important works, including We Insist!, Freedom Now Suite and Straight Ahead. In the 60s Lincoln had a simultaneous career as an actress, co-starring in the films Nothing But A Man (1964) and For Love Of Ivy (1968), for both of which she received excellent notices. Following a tour of Africa in the mid-70s, she adopted the name Aminata Moseka (her marriage to Roach had ended in 1970) and some subsequent albums were released under this name. With a deeply emotional singing voice, she has always made a close connection with her audiences. Her style veers between powerful versions of ballads from her early years and the sometimes bitter polemic of her middle period. By the late 80s her repertoire was once again featuring love songs and more accessible material akin to that of her youth, and her work for Verve Records from the 90s onwards has proved to be an admirable showcase for her suitably mature vocal talents. Nevertheless, it is probable that her politically motivated material will prove to be her most lasting contribution to black American culture. Discography: Abbey Lincoln's Affair ... A Story Of A Girl In Love (Liberty 1956)***, That's Him! (Riverside 1957)****, It's Magic (Riverside 1958)****, Abbey Is Blue (Riverside 1959)****, Straight Ahead (Candid 1961)****, People In Me (Inner City 1973)***, Golden Lady (Inner City 1980)**, Talking To The Sun (Enja 1983)***, A Tribute To Billie Holiday (Enja 1987)***, Abbey Sings Billie Vol. 2 (Enja 1987)***, The World Is Falling Down (Verve 1991)***, with Stan Getz You Gotta Pay The Band (Verve 1992)***, Devil's Got Your Tongue (Verve 1992)***, When There Is Love (Verve 1993)***, A Turtle's Dream (Verve 1995)****, Who Used To Dance (Verve 1997)****, Wholly Earth (Verve 1999)****, Over The Years (Verve 2000)***, It's Me (Verve 2003)***. Filmography: The Girl Can't Help It (1956). Music Albums A Turtle's Dream Verve 06/06/1995 Who Used To Dance Verve 04/22/1997 Wholly Earth Verve 01/26/1999 You And I Jazzfest 04/22/1997 Over The Years Verve 10/24/2000 It's Me * Verve 10/14/2003 Abbey Is Blue Original Jazz Classics 01/01/1987 Abbey Sings Billie Vol. 1 Enja 05/07/2002 Abbey Sings Billie Vol. 2 Enja 10/15/1992 Affair Capitol/EMI Records 08/10/1993 Devil's Got Your Tongue Verve 01/26/1993 It's Magic Original Jazz Classics 12/18/1990 People In Me Verve 11/23/1993 Straight Ahead Candid Records 01/25/2000 Talking To The Sun Enja 05/02/1993 That's Him! Original Jazz Classics 03/07/1988 The World Is Falling Down Verve 10/30/1990 Source: Encyclopedia of Popular Music

Posted on: 13 July 2013 | 2:53 pm

Aaron Neville

Biography Born 24 January 1941, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA. Neville began performing in the Hawkettes, a group that also featured his brother Art Neville. Aaron was signed to Minit Records as a solo artist, but despite a minor hit with "Over You" (1960), he remained largely unknown until the release of "Tell It Like It Is" (1966). This simple, haunting ballad showcased the singer's delicate delivery while the song's slogan-like title echoed the sentiments of the rising Black Power movement. Sadly, the single's outlet, Par-Lo, went bankrupt, and despite subsequent strong releases, Neville was unable to repeat its commercial success. In 1978, following the break-up of the Meters, Aaron joined Art, Cyril and Charles in the Neville Family Band, later renamed the Neville Brothers. He continued a parallel solo career and in 1989 enjoyed an international hit with "Don't Know Much", a duet with Linda Ronstadt. The first of several recordings for the A&M Records label, Warm Your Heart was a strong collection but the subsequent releases failed to do justice to Neville's astonishing voice. The singer found more worthy material with a pair of gospel releases (Devotion and Believe) in the new millennium. Discography: Tell It Like It Is (Par-Lo 1967)**, Orchid In The Storm (Demon/Rhino 1986)****, Warm Your Heart (A&M 1991)****, The Grand Tour (A&M 1993)***, Soulful Christmas (A&M 1993)**, The Tattooed Heart (A&M 1995)**, To Make Me Who I Am (A&M 1997)**, Devotion (Chordant 2000)***, Believe (Tellit/EMI Gospel 2003)***, Nature Boy: The Standards Album (Verve 2003)***. Compilations: Like It 'Tis (Minit 1967)**, Humdinger (Stateside 1986)**, Make Me Strong (Charly 1986)***, Show Me The Way (Charly 1989)***, Greatest Hits (Curb 1990)***, My Greatest Gift (Rounder 1990)***, The Very Best Of Aaron Neville (A&M 2000)***, Ultimate Collection (Hip-O 2001)****, The Best Of Aaron Neville: The Millennium Collection (A&M 2002)****, Love Songs (Interscope 2003)***, shared with Art Neville Brother To Brother (Fuel 2000 2003)****, Nature Boy: The Standards Album (Verve 2003)****. Bibliography: The Brothers, Neville Brothers with David Ritz. Music Albums Soulful Christmas A&M Records 10/05/1993 Greatest Hits Curb Records 06/12/1990 Make Me Strong Charly (UK) n/a The Classic Aaron Neville: My Greatest Gift Rounder Records 07/18/1990 Orchid In The Storm Hyena Records 02/18/2003 Show Me The Way Charly (UK) 12/01/1989 Tell It Like It Is-Golden Classics Collectables 04/22/1989 Tell It Like It Is Curb Records 07/09/1991 The Grand Tour A&M Records 04/20/1993 Warm Your Heart A&M Records 06/11/1991 The Tattooed Heart A&M Records 04/18/1995 ...To Make Me Who I Am A&M Records 10/14/1997 The Best Of Aaron Neville: Tell It Like It Is Laserlight 03/26/1996 Cry Me A River RECORDS 05/25/1999 The Very Best Of Aaron Neville A&M Records 01/11/2000 Devotion EMI Gospel Music 09/26/2000 Ultimate Collection Hip-O Records 08/21/2001 20th Century Masters: The Millennium... A&M Records 06/18/2002 Believe EMI Gospel Music 01/28/2003 Love Songs A&M Records 01/14/2003 Nature Boy: The Standards Album Verve 08/26/2003 Nature Boy: The Standards Album [SACD Hybrid] * Verve 09/30/2003 Christmas Collection: 20th Century Masters Chronicles 09/23/2003 Devotion [DVD-Audio] Silverline Records 10/24/2000 Devotion [DVD-Audio] Silverline Records 11/20/2001 Believe [DVD-Audio] Silverline Records 01/28/2003 Nature Boy: The Standards Album [DVD-Audio] Verve 02/24/2004 Source: Encyclopedia of Popular Music

Posted on: 13 July 2013 | 1:00 am