From the Desk of CLASSICKONG
A Little Halloween Madness
WARNING!
The following program may contain werewolves, vampires, witches, and other things that go bump in the night!
Listeners are advised to keep their doors locked, their garlic handy, and their sense of humor fully charged!
And remember, folks… if you hear something howling outside your window tonight…
DON’T OPEN THE DOOR!
It might just be CLASSICKONG looking for his next meal!
AAAAAOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!
Happy Halloween, everybody!
We’re just five days away from Halloween, and today happens to be Worldwide Howl at the Moon Night!
Somewhere, the legendary Wolfman Jack must be smiling!
Now, before the neighborhood dogs start answering back, let’s get into some wonderful music history!
Musical Birthdays – October 26
Mahalia Jackson (1911–1972)
Born October 26, 1911, Mahalia Jackson became known as the Queen of Gospel, and for good reason.
Her powerful voice brought gospel music to audiences around the world. Recordings like “Move On Up a Little Higher” and “Take My Hand, Precious Lord” remain extraordinary examples of her talent.
Her music wasn’t simply entertainment. It offered faith, comfort, and hope to people who needed it.
Bootsy Collins (Born 1951)
Happy 75th birthday to one of the funkiest bass players ever!
Bootsy helped lay down those unforgettable grooves with James Brown before joining George Clinton’s Parliament-Funkadelic family.
He also fronted Bootsy’s Rubber Band and contributed to Deee-Lite’s “Groove Is in the Heart.”
Now THAT is some serious funk, friends!
Keith Strickland (Born 1953)
Happy 73rd birthday to founding member of The B-52’s, Keith Strickland!
Originally the band’s drummer, Keith moved to guitar following the death of original guitarist Ricky Wilson in 1985.
From “Rock Lobster” to “Love Shack,” The B-52’s brought something wonderfully different to popular music.
Natalie Merchant (Born 1963)
Happy 63rd birthday to Natalie Merchant!
First gaining recognition with 10,000 Maniacs, Natalie established a successful solo career with her 1995 album Tigerlily, released on Elektra Records.
That album includes “Carnival,” one of my personal favorites.
What a distinctive voice. You know it’s Natalie the moment she starts singing.
National Days – October 26
Worldwide Howl at the Moon Night
AAAAAOOOOOOOO!
With Halloween just five days away, this one couldn’t have arrived at a better time!
And if you hear CLASSICKONG howling outside, don’t panic. Just turn up the radio!
National Pumpkin Day
Time to carve those jack-o’-lanterns, friends. Halloween is almost here!
National Chicken Fried Steak Day
Now you’re talking! A big plate of chicken fried steak, mashed potatoes, and gravy!
Honey, fire up that grill!
National Day of the Deployed
Today we recognize the men and women serving our country away from home, along with the families who love and support them.
We’ll have more to say about that in today’s Final Spin.
1973 – The Who Release Quadrophenia
October 26, 1973, marks the widely cited American release date of Quadrophenia, The Who’s extraordinary double album, released in the United States on MCA Records and in Britain on Track Records.
And buddy, what a name!
So what exactly does Quadrophenia mean?
Pete Townshend created the title as a play on the word schizophrenia, building his fictional story around a young man named Jimmy who struggles with four conflicting sides of his personality.
Jimmy is a British teenager caught up in the Mod culture of the 1960s, struggling with relationships, identity, and finding his place in the world.
But here’s where Townshend’s imagination really shines.
He connected those four personalities to the four members of The Who.
Roger Daltrey – The Tough Guy
Represented by “Helpless Dancer.”
Daltrey’s powerful stage presence and commanding vocals helped inspire Jimmy’s aggressive, confrontational side. He’s tough on the outside, even when things aren’t going so well underneath.
John Entwistle – The Romantic
Represented by “Is It Me?”
The band’s famously quiet bassist represents Jimmy’s softer, more reflective side. Behind the tough exterior is someone searching for love and understanding.
Keith Moon – The Madman
Represented by “Bell Boy.”
And come on, friends. If you know anything about Keith Moon, this one probably doesn’t require much explanation!
Moon was one of rock’s most unpredictable personalities, both onstage and off. His wild energy and explosive drumming made him one of a kind.
Pete Townshend – The Hypocrite
Represented by “Love, Reign o’er Me.”
Townshend used this part of Jimmy’s personality to explore the conflict between what people believe, what they say, and how they actually behave.
Four personalities. Four musicians. One troubled young man.
And that’s the idea behind Quadrophenia.
Musically, the album is a masterpiece of storytelling, with recurring themes that connect the songs.
From “The Real Me” and “5:15” to the breathtaking “Love, Reign o’er Me,” the performances are incredible.
And Keith Moon’s drumming? Good grief! The man played with an energy that seemed impossible to contain.
The album reached No. 2 in both the United States and Britain.
Quadrophenia is a powerful reminder that rock music can tell stories every bit as complex and emotional as any great film or novel.
1970 – Elton John Releases Your Song
On October 26, 1970, Elton John’s beautiful “Your Song” was released as a single in the United States on UNI Records.
It originally appeared on Elton’s self-titled album Elton John, released earlier that year.
Written by Elton John and his longtime songwriting partner Bernie Taupin, the song became Elton’s breakthrough American hit.
But here’s a wonderful little story.
Bernie wrote the lyrics one morning in 1969 while sitting at the breakfast table in Elton’s mother’s apartment in Northwood Hills, England.
Elton took the words, sat down at the piano, and created the melody.
Two young songwriters, a piece of paper, and a piano.
And out came one of the most beautiful love songs ever recorded.
Now, who was the song written for?
Over the years, people have wondered whether Bernie wrote it for a particular girlfriend or someone special in his life.
But Bernie himself has explained that it wasn’t written for one specific person.
It was a simple, universal expression of love.
And that’s part of its beauty.
The song is about someone who doesn’t have great wealth or extravagant gifts to offer. All he has is his music, and he wants to give that music to someone he loves.
What a beautiful thought.
Elton’s piano playing, his heartfelt vocal, and Paul Buckmaster’s lovely string arrangement helped turn those simple words into something timeless.
“Your Song” eventually reached No. 8 on the Billboard Hot 100.
And more than fifty years later, it still sounds as beautiful as ever.
Elton and the piano. What a combination.
And after all these years, he’s STILL standing!
1974 – Dionne Warwick and The Spinners Reach Number One
On October 26, 1974, “Then Came You” reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100.
Released on Atlantic Records and produced by the legendary Thom Bell, the song brought together two remarkable talents.
And what a combination it was!
By 1974, Dionne Warwick had already established herself as one of the finest vocalists in popular music.
Her legendary partnership with composer Burt Bacharach and lyricist Hal David produced an extraordinary collection of recordings.
Just think about these classics:
“Walk On By,” “Anyone Who Had a Heart,” “I Say a Little Prayer,” “Do You Know the Way to San Jose,” and “I’ll Never Fall in Love Again.”
What a catalog!
Dionne had a remarkable ability to handle Bacharach’s complex melodies and unusual phrasing while making everything sound effortless.
Although her early 1970s recordings hadn’t matched the commercial success of those earlier hits, her musical legacy was already firmly established.
Meanwhile, The Spinners were enjoying an incredible resurgence after signing with Atlantic Records.
Under Thom Bell’s direction, the group had delivered hits including “I’ll Be Around,” “Could It Be I’m Falling in Love,” “One of a Kind (Love Affair),” and “Mighty Love.”
And friends, I’ve always loved The Spinners.
Those harmonies, those arrangements, and those magnificent voices!
Another favorite, “Games People Play,” released the following year, always reminds me of a special time in my life.
Isn’t it something how a song can take you back decades in just a few seconds?
With “Then Came You,” Dionne Warwick and The Spinners created something special.
Dionne’s smooth, elegant delivery blended beautifully with the group’s rich harmonies and the expressive voice of Philippé Wynne.
The record gave both acts their first No. 1 hit on the Billboard pop chart.
Sometimes bringing two great musical talents together produces something even greater.
This was one of those times.
1981 – Queen and David Bowie Join Forces for Under Pressure
October 26, 1981, is associated with the original release of “Under Pressure,” the unforgettable collaboration between Queen and David Bowie.
The song was released as a single on EMI and Elektra and later appeared on Queen’s 1982 studio album Hot Space.
And what a gathering of talent!
Freddie Mercury, Brian May, Roger Taylor, John Deacon, and David Bowie.
The collaboration came together at Mountain Studios in Montreux, Switzerland.
What began as a recording-session encounter developed into one of rock’s most recognizable songs.
John Deacon’s famous bass line provides the foundation, while Mercury and Bowie trade powerful vocal performances.
And here’s something interesting.
The song’s creation involved considerable improvisation, with the musicians experimenting together rather than following a fully developed composition from the beginning.
The finished recording reached No. 1 in the United Kingdom.
But beneath that famous bass line and those soaring vocals is a serious message.
“Under Pressure” explores the stress of modern life, the way people treat one another, and the importance of love and compassion.
And isn’t that something we could all use a little more of?
A wonderful collaboration and a genuine radio classic.
1985 – Whitney Houston Scores Her First Number One
On October 26, 1985, Whitney Houston reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 with “Saving All My Love for You.”
Released on Arista Records, the song appeared on her self-titled debut album Whitney Houston.
Written by Michael Masser and Gerry Goffin, it became Whitney’s first pop chart-topper and earned her a Grammy Award.
And what a voice.
Whitney possessed extraordinary power, control, and an ability to bring genuine emotion to a song.
Her debut album would produce additional major hits, including “How Will I Know” and “Greatest Love of All.”
She passed away on February 11, 2012, at the age of 48.
Gone far too soon, but her musical legacy remains extraordinary.
Rest in peace, Whitney.
1991 – Travis Tritt Reaches Number One with Anymore
On October 26, 1991, Travis Tritt reached No. 1 on Billboard’s country chart with “Anymore.”
The song appeared on his 1991 Warner Bros. album It’s All About to Change.
Co-written by Tritt and Jill Colucci, it’s a powerful ballad about finally admitting feelings that can no longer be hidden.
I’ve always respected Travis Tritt.
He’s got a strong voice, a little Southern rock in his musical DNA, and the ability to deliver a song with conviction.
“Anymore” is a fine example.
1999 – Alan Jackson Honors His Musical Heroes
On October 26, 1999, Alan Jackson released Under the Influence on Arista Nashville.
Rather than recording an album of new original material, Jackson decided to honor the country songs and artists that helped shape his musical life.
The album featured “Pop a Top,” “The Blues Man,” “It Must Be Love,” and other country favorites.
Artists such as Merle Haggard, George Jones, and Don Williams helped influence Jackson’s traditional country sound.
And that’s one of the things I’ve always respected about Alan Jackson.
He never seemed interested in abandoning the music that made him who he was.
Sometimes honoring your heroes means carrying their music forward for another generation.
1999 – Dream Theater Release Scenes from a Memory
On October 26, 1999, Dream Theater released Metropolis Pt. 2: Scenes from a Memory on Elektra Records.
And friends, this album is something special.
It may very well be my favorite Dream Theater recording.
The album tells an elaborate story involving Nicholas, a man whose mysterious memories lead him into a story of love, betrayal, death, and questions about life beyond this world.
It’s the band’s first studio album with keyboardist Jordan Rudess, joining John Petrucci, Mike Portnoy, John Myung, and James LaBrie.
And what an incredible collection of musicians.
But here’s what makes this record so special to me.
It’s not simply about technical ability.
Sure, these guys can play incredibly complex music. The arrangements, time changes, and musicianship are extraordinary.
But what really matters is the emotion behind it.
Songs like “Through Her Eyes,” “The Spirit Carries On,” and “Finally Free” make this album a deeply moving experience.
And buddy, “The Spirit Carries On” can bring tears to your eyes.
The song asks some of life’s biggest questions.
What happens when our time here is finished? Does something of us live on? And what does it mean to love someone beyond the limits of this life?
It’s a beautiful, emotional piece of music.
And that’s what I love about Dream Theater.
Behind all that extraordinary musicianship is a band capable of reaching straight into your heart.
If you’ve never heard this album, I encourage you to experience it from beginning to end.
It’s an incredible musical journey.
Remembering Bill Graham
We also remember legendary concert promoter Bill Graham, who passed away on October 25, 1991, at age 60.
Graham helped shape the modern concert business through his work with the Fillmore Auditorium in San Francisco and the Fillmore East in New York.
His venues became legendary gathering places for rock, blues, soul, and other musical styles.
He helped bring countless great musicians before audiences and played an important role in major events such as Live Aid.
Bill Graham wasn’t standing behind a microphone or playing a guitar.
But he helped make sure the musicians who did had somewhere to perform.
And that contribution to music history deserves our respect.
Final Spin – The Music That Carries Us Home
Friends, today is National Day of the Deployed, and I’d like to leave you with something close to my heart.
Having served overseas myself, I know what it’s like to be far from home and the people you love.
And you know what can make a tremendous difference?
Music.
A familiar song can take you back to your family, your friends, or a special moment in your life.
Sometimes it can make you smile. Sometimes it can bring a tear to your eye.
Earlier today, we talked about Dream Theater’s beautiful “The Spirit Carries On.”
That song reminds me how powerful hope can be, especially when we’re separated from the people we love.
And there’s another song we mentioned today that fits this occasion beautifully.
Dionne Warwick’s “I Say a Little Prayer,” written by Burt Bacharach and Hal David, was inspired by the thoughts and concerns of someone whose loved one was serving overseas during the Vietnam War.
Think about that.
A song we’ve heard for decades carries a message about love, worry, hope, and the simple wish for someone to come home safely.
And then there’s Mahalia Jackson, whose gospel music brought comfort and strength to so many people.
Different artists. Different styles of music.
But a common thread.
Hope.
So today, let’s remember the men and women serving far from home and the families waiting for their return.
And if you know somebody who’s deployed, send them a message. Let them know they’re remembered.
Sometimes a few kind words can mean more than we realize.
And that’s gonna do it for today, friends.
Hopefully I’ve maybe put a smile on your face, and a song in your heart.
Take care of yourselves, help others when you can, and always, always, keep the music playing.
I’m your host, CLASSICKONG. We’ll see ya down the road!
Listen to Today’s Broadcast/Podcast
Enjoy the broadcast, and don’t forget to follow our podcast on Spotify for more music history, memories, and a few laughs along the way!
References
- The Who – Quadrophenia
- Quadrophenia – Album Background
- Elton John – The Story of Your Song
- Dionne Warwick – Bacharach and David Songbook
- Queen – Hot Space
- Dream Theater – Metropolis Pt. 2
- Alan Jackson – Career Timeline
- National Day Calendar – October 26
- October 26 Observances
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