The 500 - #91 - Goodbye Yellow Brick Road - Elton John

I was inspired by a podcast called The 500 hosted by New York-based comedian Josh Adam Meyers. His goal, and mine, is to explore Rolling Stone Magazine's 2012 edition of The 500 Greatest Albums of All Time.

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Album: #91

Album Title: Goodbye Yellow Brick Road

Artist: Elton John

Genre: Multiple

Recorded: Château d'Hérouville, Hérouville, France 

Released: May, 1973

My age at release: 7

How familiar was I with it before this week: Deeply

Is it on the 2020 list? Yes, at #112 - dropping 21 spots

Song I am putting on my Spotify Playlist: Funeral for a Friend/Love Lies Bleeding

When it comes to writing about Elton John's Goodbye Yellow Brick Road, I find myself paralyzed by the tyranny of choice. I suspect this feeling will happen more frequently, as we head into the final 90 records on this list. These are some of the biggest albums of my lifetime and I am deeply familiar with so many.

When I reflect on the more than 50 years Goodbye Yellow Brick Road has been in my audio orbit, so many ideas come to mind.

• I could write about the Elton John obsession that consumed me in the mid-1980s when I steadily purchased almost every studio album he released during the previous decade.

• I could write about how this particular record dominated my headphones for months at a time when, turning 20, I felt that I was leaving youth behind and figuring out how to navigate a world of greater responsibility. 

• I could write about the powerhouse songs from multiple genres that are packed onto this two-record set – American, Blues, Funk, Country-Western Ballads, Dance Hall Ragtime, Reggae, Gospel and ‘50s Rock and Roll Revival. As well there’s every kind of rock – Hard, Soft, Blues, Pop. Folk and Progressive/Symphonic.

Instead, I'll simply say that Goodbye Yellow Brick Road is my second-favourite Elton John album. Well, it is pretty much tied for first with Captain Fantastic and the Brown Dirt Cowboy, which I wrote about roughly a year ago.

What Goodbye Yellow Brick Road does contain, however, is my favourite Elton John song. Or perhaps more accurately, my favourite Elton John songs, as the album opens with the instrumental Funeral for a Friend, which flows seamlessly into Love Lies Bleeding. For me, those two tracks have always been inseparable. Together, they create one of the greatest album openings in rock history.

As a teenager, I assumed Funeral for a Friend was simply a cool title. It sounded dramatic, mysterious and epic. Four decades later, it resonates far differently.

The irony wasn't lost on me this weekend as I prepared to write this post. I spent several days revisiting Goodbye Yellow Brick Road, listening to it repeatedly in the mornings before my new class of Grade 7 students arrived. Sadly, I was also mentally preparing to attend the funeral of a friend.

When I first fell in love with this record, funerals belonged to another generation. They were for grandparents, elderly neighbours and distant relatives. Friends weren't people whose funerals you attended; they were events waiting in the future. The older I get, though, the more I realize that funerals for friends will become an increasing facet of my life. A song title that once seemed cool now carries a weight that I once never considered.

The friend I was saying goodbye to was Joe, the father of my wife Angela’s goddaughter, Siobhan. Angela has been friends with Siobhan’s mother, Heather, for more than 30 years. While not her biological father, Joe was part of Siobhan’s life since she was little and built a wonderful relationship with her -- as evidenced by the many pictures of the pair, camping, fishing, playing or dressed for Halloween that are on display around the family household.

Over the last decade, Joe and his family became familiar faces at our Christmas and Thanksgiving gatherings. He was one of those genuinely sweet, gentle people who made every room a little warmer simply by being present. The kind of guy my British cousin would say is “a good bloke”.

The thing I always looked forward to when hanging with Joe was talking hockey and music. We shared a devotion to the London Knights Jr. Hockey Club in our town, and had remarkably similar tastes in the listening habits of our youth. In fact, many of Joe's favourite albums are coming up soon on the Rolling Stone's 500 Greatest Albums list, including Pink Floyd’s The Wall and Dark Side of the Moon. He was also a fan of Rush, so that was an easy connection when we first met.

Some of his favourite CD's were on display at the
funeral home. He and his daughter can be seen
in the photo at the back at her recent high school graduation.

Last Saturday, my wife and I filled a funeral hall with his family and friends. Unsurprisingly, many kind words were shared, reinforcing the things I already knew about Joe – his kindness, his gentle nature, his passion for music and sports and his deep love for his daughter.

When I was 16, Funeral For A Friend seemed like a dramatic title for a rock song. It belonged to a distant future that I could not imagine. Friends were permanent, weren’t they? The people in my orbit would always be there. At least that's how it felt.

Now I understand the title differently. Not because it is about death, but because it is ultimately about the people who make our lives richer while they are here. Joe was one of those people. He was a good bloke, a devoted father, a hockey fan, a music fan, and someone whose company I genuinely enjoyed whenever our paths crossed.

Joe Quigg (Obituary here) 

Rest in Peace, Joe

The 500 - #160 - Electric Warrior - T. Rex

I was inspired by a podcast called The 500 hosted by New York-based comedian Josh Adam Meyers. His goal, and mine, is to explore Rolling Stone Magazine's 2012 edition of The 500 Greatest Albums of All Time. 

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Album: #160
Album Title: Electric Warrior

Artist: T-Rex

Genre: Glam Rock, Hard Rock, Boogie Rock

Recorded: 4 studios. London, U.K., Los Angeles & New York U.S.A.

Released: September, 1971

My age at release: 6
How familiar was I with it before this week: Several songs

Is it on the 2020 list? Yes, at #188, dropping 18 spots
Song I am putting on my Spotify Playlist: Jeepster

Like many of my vintage, my first exposure to the music of T. Rex came in 1985 when supergroup The Power Station recorded their version of (Bang A Gong) Get It On. In all honesty, when I first heard The Power Station version, I thought it was an original track from the band. The initial single from their self-titled album had been the original composition, Some Like It Hot. So, logically, I assumed that (Bang A Gong) Get It On was also written by the quartet. My pal Roderick, who was several years older than I, quickly disabused me of this fiction and, shortly afterwards, he played Electric Warrior while we sipped tea and talked about the fantasy role-playing game Dungeons & Dragons. (I shared my brief history with Roderick in my July, 2022, post about Frank Sinatra's Songs For Swingin’ Lovers! In many ways, Roderick served as a de facto "older brother" and he was instrumental in building my music knowledge in a time before the Internet.

The Power Station were a supergroup comprising singer Robert
Palmer, Chic drummer Tony Thompson and Duran Duran
bassist and guitarist John and Andy Taylor (no relation).

T. Rex (originally Tyrannosaurus Rex) were formed in London in 1968 by singer, songwriter, guitarist and poet Marc Bolan (born Mark Feld). There are several conflicting stories about how Feld chose his stage name. My favourite is that he cleverly cobbled it together by taking the front two letters and last three letters from his musical idol, Bob Dylan. Following two years playing with the proto-punk, beat band John's Children, Bolan founded T. Rex as a psychedelic folk duo. His first record had the cumbersome title My People Were Fair And Had Sky In Their Hair...But Now They're Content To Wear Stars On Their Brows. It features all the trappings of the psychedelic hippie scene of the time when Hare Krishna chants, bongos, new age mysticism and fantasy--inspired lyrics were prominent.

Electric Warrior marked a drastic shift from Bolan's hippie roots. He replaced his acoustic guitar with an electric one and embraced a more flamboyant pop-rock sound that was influenced by rock and roll artists, including Little Richard, Jimi Hendrix and The Rolling Stones, as well as American blues performers such as Howlin' Wolf. The lyrics still had some fantasy elements, but Bolan also began to write songs with familiar rock imagery that included cars, women and celebration. Many critics consider Electric Warrior to be the first record in the glam rock genre. When Bolan appeared on Top Of The Pops in March, 1971, to promote the single Hot Love, he was decked out in a silver satin suit with glitter under his eyes.  The video can be seen here.

A Glam Rock idol is born. Bolan on Top Of The Pops performing
Hot Love in 1971.

T. Rex released six additional records in the glam rock genre, with the final release, Dandy In The Underworld, hitting shelves in 1977. It was lauded by critics for the strength of the songwriting and Bolan's vocal performance. During a touring hiatus in the fall of that year, Bolan was a passenger in a Mini 1275GT being driven by his romantic partner Gloria Jones. Both had been drinking and, after crossing a small, humpback bridge in Southwest London ,Jones lost control and hit a fence post and a tree. Bolan died at the scene and Jones was critically injured, but survived.

The wrecked Mini in which Bolan died (Photo by Maurice Wallace).

Although I didn't purchase any of the band’s records when I collected vinyl, I have become a fan of  T. Rex’s music, particularly the tracks that have appeared in some of my favourite movies. Bolan's tracks are infectiously catchy and I've always been of the opinion that they elevate a film brilliantly. Some songs immediately transport me to a specific scene from the film in which it is featured. Two examples that immediately come to mind are Cosmic Dancer from the opening credits to Billy Elliot and Jeepster from the Tarantino flick Death Proof. There are also T. Rex tracks used excellently in the movies Lords Of Dogtown, The Break-Up, School Of Rock, Hot Fuzz, Scott Pilgrim Vs. The World and, most recently, the horror Longlegs.

Bolan, like many artists I've discussed in this blog series, was lost far too soon. He would only be in his late-seventies if still alive today. I am confident he would have entertained the world with many more terrific songs and albums like Electric Warrior -- a delightful listen that will blast many more times through my speakers. Now I need to watch Billy Elliot and Deathproof again.

The 500 - #279 - Aladdin Sane - David Bowie

I was inspired by a podcast called The 500 hosted by Los Angeles-based comedian Josh Adam Meyers. His goal, and mine, is to explore Rolling Stone Magazine's 2012 edition of The 500 Greatest Albums of All Time. 

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Album: #279

Album Title: Aladdin Sane

Artist: David Bowie

Genre: Rock, Glam Rock

Recorded: Trident Studios, London U.K., RCA Studio, New York, U.S.A.

Released: April, 1973

My age at release: 7, My guest blogger was not yet born

How familiar was I with it before this week: Quite

Is it on the 2020 list? No

Song I am putting on my Spotify Playlist: Time

For the third year, a student in my Grade 7 class has volunteered to pick an album from The 500 list and share their thoughts. This year it is Arrow. Initially, they wanted to write about Some Girls, the 14th release from The Rolling Stones, which appears at position #270. However, the lyrics on the title track gave me pause. As we looked over titles, I spotted Aladdin Sane by David Bowie at position #279. Knowing that Arrow is as passionate about artistic make-up application as they are about music, it seemed the perfect choice. Happily, they accepted my suggestion and a few months ago they began their listening and writing journey. Interestingly, they selected the song Time for my Spotify 500 Playlist. It contains some provocative lyrics. However, Arrow is a terrifically mature student and you will read their deep understanding of the song when they break it down below. Enjoy.

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Hi, my name is Arrow. I am a student in Mr. Hodgkinson's Grade 7 class at Sir Arthur Currie P.S. in London, Ontario. I have selected David Bowie’s sixth studio record, Aladdin Sane, to write about as a guest blogger.

The first time I heard the title Aladdin Sane I was genuinely intrigued to listen to the album. Initially, it made me think about the movie Aladdin, but I knew I must be way off. Shortly after I started my research I learned what it was actually based on.

I found that the album was written while David Bowie was travelling the United States on his Ziggy Stardust tour. Some songs were written as Bowie sailed back to the U.K. He had travelled by boat because he did not like flying. Consequently, a lot of the songs were inspired by his impressions of America in the early ‘70s.

The album title, and title track Aladdin Sane (1913 - 1938 - 197?), was also informed by a book he was reading at the time called Vile Bodies. The book, written by Evelyn Waugh, satirizes the uncontrolled and frenetic (yet empty) lives of the “Bright Young Things” – a name given to the rich, young people in London, England, who threw lavish parties following World War I.

The title is also a pun as it can be sounded out as A-Lad-Insane. It was, in part, inspired by Bowie's half-brother, Terry, who was diagnosed with schizophrenia. I’m trying to learn as much as I can about mental health and think that the more I know, the more compassionate I will become. Bowie’s choice was a tribute to his brother and a way of bringing attention to mental health and his diagnosis.

David (left) and his half-brother Terry (1960s)

When I first saw the album cover I thought Bowie was going against what society believed in and its expectations of him as a performer. It also shows how he wanted to stand out and didn’t care what anyone thought. I really appreciate this, as I like to be different from what society expects of me. Through my research, I have learned that this album art is now considered one of the most recognizable and celebrated record covers of all time.

The song Time really spoke to me. In his lyrics, Bowie reminds the listener that we can’t stop the passage of time and that we have to make the most of it without dwelling on things. I sometimes find it hard not to over-think events in my life. I can also get stuck thinking of things that can be negative or unhelpful.

You'll freeze and catch a cold
'Cause you've left your coat behind
Take your time
Breaking up is hard

But keeping dark is hateful

In this verse, Bowie seems to be reminding us to make the most of time and that even though making changes in your life may be difficult, it is much better than remaining in a negative situation.

While I was researching, I learned my mom and sister were also fans of David Bowie. So, I decided to interview both of them in order to get the views of people older than me.

Mom Interview

When did you first hear David Bowie?

I first heard David Bowie songs when my older brother was listening to him. When I was younger I found his songs too loud for me. Or maybe I just didn’t understand the music yet. When I got older I grew to enjoy his music and loved a lot of the meaning in the words he sang. Maybe I was just better able to understand his lyrics and music in my older years.

What is your favourite song and why?

My favourite song has to be Under Pressure, which was a fantastic collaboration of the band Queen and Bowie. This song has been covered by some of the best musicians. Even though this song was released in 1981, Queen still performs it and keeps it alive in the world of rock and roll.

Note: Both of the original singers, Bowie and Queen vocalist Freddie Mercury, have passed away. The new Queen singer, Adam Lambert, sings the Freddie part and Queen drummer, Roger Taylor, sings the Bowie part.

After listening to the Aladdin Sane album, what is the best thing about it?

I loved the old-school rock of this album. There are so few artists that can create the feeling or vibe of David Bowie. The piano and guitar were exceptional, as I have found with all of Bowie’s music.

Sister Interview

When did you first hear of David Bowie?

Though I now know him as a well-renowned artist, I originally heard him on the song Under Pressure, a collaboration with him and the band Queen. I think I’ve always had a knowledge of his talent and popularity, but I was exposed a lot more to Queen and their music and didn't actually find myself listening to much Bowie.

What is your favourite song and why?

Under Pressure is most definitely the song I listen to most, both because of my early exposure and the fact that I am a big fan of Queen. From Bowie's solo work, the song Lady Grinning Soul is probably my favourite. I love the musicality of it, with the gentle piano parts overtop of the steady rhythm section and the way it builds up into the bridge and final chorus. It is an all-encompassing experience. I also just love the general feeling of the song. (Fame is another good one. I love the funk).

After listening to the Aladdin Sane album, what is the best thing about it?

I love this album. My favourite thing about it is that though it has the cohesive feeling of an album, each song is uniquely its own, musically and lyrically. As mentioned before, I absolutely love the use of piano in popular music, and I feel like the unison of that with an older rock feel is really something unique to Bowie.

In conclusion, David Bowie stood out because of his music and identity. Some called him the “Lord of Rock” and “The Greatest Rockstar of All Time'' and that he created masterpieces. I agree, David Bowie is amazing.

The 500 - #370 - Mott - Mott The Hoople

I was inspired by a podcast called The 500 hosted by Los Angeles-based comedian Josh Adam Meyers. His goal, and mine, is to explore Rolling Stone Magazine's 2012 edition of The 500 Greatest Albums of All Time. 

The 500 - #396 - For Your Pleasure - Roxy Music

I was inspired by a podcast called The 500 hosted by Los Angeles-based comedian Josh Adam Meyers. His goal, and mine, is to explore Rolling Stone's 2012 edition of The 500 Greatest Albums of All Time. 

Album # 396

Album Title: For Your Pleasure
Artist: Roxy Music
Genre: Art Rock, Glam Rock, Art Pop
Recorded: AIR Studios, London, UK
Released: March, 1973
My age at release: 7
How familiar was I with it before this week: Not at all
Song I am putting on my Spotify Mix: Do The Strand

For Your Pleasure is the sophomore record for English experimental, art-rock band Roxy Music. The group's founder and lead singer, charismatic crooner Bryan Ferry, is the most recognizable member. However, it is another Brian, synthesizer and sound specialist Brian Eno, who may be the most interesting, if not for his songwriting then certainly for his flamboyant early 70's attire.

Roxy Music (1973) Brian Eno - far left Bryan Ferry - center

Those who have followed my blogs may recognize Eno's name from two records on The 500 list: the 1973 Album Here Come The Warm Jets at position #432 or Another Green World at #429. I wrote about both a few weeks apart last spring.

Throughout the production of For Your Pleasure, artistic temperaments were tested. Eno was increasingly interested in more experimental sounds, while Ferry was drawn toward the New Wave and Punk sounds emerging from London's underground music scene. Additionally, guitarist Phil Manzenara was somewhat shut-out of the writing process dominated by Ferry and Eno. Indeed, Eno left the band shortly after the record's release to work on the aforementioned Here Come The Warm Jets, released the same year. In Eno's absence, Ferry and Manzenara collaborated on six additional studio releases over the next nine years.

This was my first exposure to the record and I'll admit that, during the first two plays, I found it odd and cacophonous. I was not deterred. There are many records I have learned to love that I found jarring or inharmonious on first listen. For my third spin, I put on my headphones and found a quiet spot. As I suspected, For Your Pleasure began to grow on me. I immediately thought of my good friend Bill. Bill worked as an FM disc jockey and managed bands throughout the late 70s and early 80s. This seemed like a record he would love, so I reached out with a text to ask him if he was familiar and he shared the following:

"One of the most influential discs in my life. Good eye. I played it heavily on FM96 (a London, Ontario, radio station) and the band I managed covered two tunes from this album."

"Would you care to share some thoughts as a guest blogger?", I asked. He agreed, despite a busy schedule, and the following appeared in my message box shortly after:

"For Your Pleasure was Roxy Music's second album, coming out in 1973. The album cover had Bryan Ferry's then-girlfriend, Amanda Lear on the cover, and he was on the back. Not only was she a singer and model, she later became surrealistic painter Salvador Dali's confidant and muse."

Bryan Ferry on the back Cover to For Your Pleasure

"There is such a commotion of sounds on that record. It is glam, punk, pop, jazz and sometimes just noise. In the early 80s I managed a band called Second Thoughts. They did a cover of the opening track, Do the Strand, that never failed to pump-up the audience. This was a great experimental album which launched an extraordinary and eclectic band. It will always be one of my very faves."