Thursday, June 18, 2015

Interactive Intros

It should take only 2 minutes to read this blog.
It may take 30+ minutes to really read this blog (and enjoy the musical knowledge contained therein)





A musical fascination developed during my years as a hockey mom. At each hockey game, I pushed aside annoying little kids and other hockey moms so that I could operate the highly coveted post of "DJ." It was my 'goal' to claim the music system, where I would play carefully chosen songs (which I divided into files according to pre-game pump, penalties, goals, songs for the opposing team's goals-which were generally watered down picks...and many more). I would pay close attention to songs that would create an exciting arena, on and off the ice. I became an Intro Junkie. Now more than ever, I am hooked on Intros (probably because of a persistent attention deficit issue.)

The most important element for those hockey songs was the power of the Introduction. Intros are unique to a song, as their structure is generally not repeated after the lyrics begin. An average of 5-20 seconds are initially designed to hook the listener and hold them throughout the song.  The Intro gives the listener an indication of what is to come .... or it steers you onto a completely different path. It creates anticipation.

Similar to blending different ingredients into a delicious concoction, the Intro blends various sounds, instruments, and vocals into a special arrangement. If you listen carefully, you'll hear varied tempos, instruments and vocals.
In many internet chat conversations, I've read about "awesome rock intros" which name the biggies: Van Halen, Led Zep, AC/DC, The Who, The Rolling Stones, Guns 'N' Roses, Pink Floyd, etc. And they are worthy. But frankly, we've all heard 'em and expect to hear 'em over and over, so it's time to hear something else.
Today, I would like to extend our Introduction lesson and venture off the beaten path to hear song intros that make your foot tap, or conjure up an old memory. Perhaps you'll get hooked on a song you've never heard before. Likely you will recognize many of these songs and while they are great songs, most rock enthusiasts never include these as "Monumental Intros." 
Since I've shared my more aggressive nature, I'll also unveil my strong personal opinion. I believe there are two bands who are the Kings of Intros:  Rage Against The Machine and The Black Keys. I find fiery passion in all of their Intros.

Author of "I Want To Tell You," and musician, Anthony Robustelli, weighed in on the issue when I asked what may be the best Beatles Intro.  "Some of my favorite intros are "Ticket To Ride," "I Don't Want to Spoil the Party," "Lovely Rita," and "A Day in the Life," but if I had to pick one (which is almost impossible,) I think I'd say "I Want You (She's So Heavy)."

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uo1i9uTaCFQ 
"I Want You (She's So Heavy)" by The Beatles

"It's so hard and haunting and after it's done the song goes in a completely different direction."

I also sought the expert opinion of Nashville recording/sound engineer and musician, Travis Humbert. Humbert lends his opinion on song Intros, explaining that "Outside of the chorus, it could be argued that the Intro is the most important section of a song, as normally, it's going to be the first thing a listener hears (unless they're flipping through radio dial and stop in the middle of a tune…) 
Today's society has become more short-attention-span-driven. So it's even more important to grab their attention right out of the gate. Which to me is the barometer of a good Intro: does the Intro pass the audience reaction test? And by that I mean, if a band is performing live in concert, and they start to play a song, does it immediately grab the crowd's attention and get everyone's adrenaline flowing overtime? Is it instantly recognizable? If so, "Step one of a good song" is complete!"
For example, check out the crowd's reaction as soon as these familiar songs start" -- 

No Doubt - "Don't Speak" (it doesn't even have to be fast or uptempo…)


So, turn off the TV, put down the phone and get comfy. Click on the song links. Pay attention to each note in the Intros...some you may want to hear twice! It's exciting to introduce you to some Intros that rock (AND as an added bonus, some of the videos are pretty nifty, too). And check out my contest below!

Peace and Rock & Roll,
Lanea Stagg



(Hint:  after you view each youtube video, click the 'back' arrow at the top left of the page)

Some Early Intros Not to be Forgotten:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rVT65M4mRnM 
"Johnny B. Goode" by Chuck Berry
(the audience must be in a coma)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6jmNe77vces   
"Lucille" by Little Richard

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HE2aDDSV4rg 
"Candy Man" by Roy Orbison

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S7m4o9yQmqE 
"Daddy Rolling Stone" by The Who
(Yeah, I was trying to avoid The Who songs, but this early ditty is a forgotten part of The Who's sound)


Outstanding Chick Intros:


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R4Zu9-xyOlg  
"Save Me" by Aretha Franklin

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j0f5ZG9LG6k  

"Piece of My Heart" by Janis Joplin

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IeEA9yuZ2G8  
"Straight On" by Heart

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TU3-lS_Gryk
"Dreaming" by Blondie


Slow & Melting Intros:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6OTvz1lJzmI  
"Voodoo Child" by Jimi Hendrix

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eBG7P-K-r1Y  

"Everlong" by Foo Fighters

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6Mt0ee9FraQ  

"In the Air Tonight" by Phil Collins


Super "Strung" Out & Epic Coolness:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JyCwZtq9Hf4
"Tightrope" by Electric Light Orchestra
(Honestly, ALL ELO songs have rockin intros)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3p_xAToFzck    
"Funeral For A Friend" by Elton John


Get Your Funk On:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fp7Q1OAzITM   
"Got To Give It Up" by Marvin Gaye
(I remember seeing those hockey players standing around shakin it to this -- you can't not shake it ;)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DGDyAb6pePo     

"I Want You Back" by The Jackson 5

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0CFuCYNx-1g 
"Superstition" by Stevie Wonder

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rnVvvXKmH34   
"Beat It" by Michael Jackson

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LuyS9M8T03A   
"Atomic Dog" by George Clinton

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7re4D15-Aaw  
"Polk Salad Annie" by Tony Joe White



Layers of Sounds:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HtPL2YhK6h0  
"Take A Look Around" by Limp Bizkit 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lrj5Kxdzouc  
"Midnight Special" by Creedence Clearwater Revival 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pLsDxvAErTU 

"Kodachrome" by Paul Simon

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zzyfcys1aLM 
"One Headlight" by The Wallflowers  

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zkD-xIUYPq8 
"Steady As She Goes" by The Raconteurs

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F8NNjhzSXwE 
"Workin' in a Coal Mine" - DEVO


Bad A$$

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0c3d7QgZr7g
"Stranglehold" by Ted Nugent

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kyXz6eMCj2k 
"Hair of the Dog" by Nazareth

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_alSxl8aNt0  
"Girl is on My Mind" by The Black Keys

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3L4YrGaR8E4  
"Bulls on Parade" by Rage Against the Machine


Do Instrumental songs have Intros? Of course!  Can they lure you into a fully instrumental piece with spicy anticipation? Absolutely.  The Intros of these songs will likely conjure up some unforgettable memories:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xPXwkWVEIIw  
"In The Mood" by Glenn Miller Band

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TIoTpeM6o2A  

"Sing Sing Sing" by Benny Goodman

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LDAd_H7AFk0  
"Dueling Banjos" by Eric Weissberg



https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ioE_O7Lm0I4  
"Gonna Fly Now" by Bill Conti

Emotionally Charged Intros:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BXsusJ787sU  
"The Thrill Is Gone" by B.B. King

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BKAYGVIkbok  
"Bell Bottom Blues" by Derek & The Dominos

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pjN8huzS2Nc&list=RDYnhI_ECOAK4&index=37   
"Oh Girl" by The Chi-Lites

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hkg-bzTHeAk 

"Ohio"  by Neil Young

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TcQN7ZcSY2A  
"The One In The Middle" by Robert Cray (with Memphis Horns)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J1ia-OQThno  

"Baby Did A Bad Bad Thing" by Chris Isaak

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jte9PzIu9T4   

"Thunder Road" by Bruce Springsteen

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3aubjDJc07E     

"Love Song"  by Tesla

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KOQ4pkUAFbA  
"Renegade" by Styx

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sdXjm8pZMws  
"30 Days in the Hole" by Humble Pie


Intros That Start With a Bang:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FI7CtxlisCk  
"Shotgun"  by Jr. Walker & The All-Stars

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vtJ27y_9LOg 
"The Night Chicago Died" by Paper Lace



Straight Up Rock & Roll Intros:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tXkblbJqwn0 
"American Girl" by Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HNeXJg0Sh1Q
"Winning" by Santana

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RLCGQagBCOw    
"One of These Nights" by The Eagles


And Lanea's Pick for Best Intro of All Time:
This song has it all. The mean acceleration of a hot car, baroque sounds with jazzy cymbals, layered guitar licks, keyboards & the stunning Jim Morrison.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JskztPPSJwY  
"L.A. Woman" by the Doors

I know that it's difficult to find time to read these days ... it's a dying art. But I guarantee that if you take some time and sit back with a cold drink and click on these songs, it will change your mood.

*I want to know YOUR favorite INTRO ... send it to me in the comments section or email:   lanea@reciperecordscookbook.com
If I post your Intro pick in my next blog, you'll receive a FREE copy of Recipe Records


MY MUSIC NUGGET O' THE DAY:
A couple of worthy mentions for today:

"While My Guitar Gently Weeps" - Prince, Jeff Lynne, Tom Petty, Steve Winwood & Dhani Harrison

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6SFNW5F8K9Y&list=PLoX5VdQlt9OfBk9dWH2UKEzvWJqGXkOrs&index=10



Elvis' "Blue Suede Shoes" screen test at Paramount Studios:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bm5HKlQ6nGM



FEST FOR BEATLES FANS BLOG --
Jude Southerland Kessler, Blogger for The Fest site, wrote a touching post about recording engineer Dennis Ferrante, who made magic for John & Yoko, Cher and others. You can hear her last interview with Dennis (great episode where he tells story of what he said to Yoko ("bleep bleep") 
Please read her beautiful post:

http://www.thefest.com/he-engineered-the-soundtrack-of-life-a-tribute-to-dennis-ferrante/


THIS SATURDAY -- I will be at Mystique Winery with artist Jon Fuchs and AVA - the star of Little Dog in the Sun. It is a fundraiser for Animapalooza! Please come see us & support the animals!

http://www.mystiquewine.com/





UPCOMING GIGS:


BEATLES AT THE RIDGE - WALNUT RIDGE, ARKANSAS  - September 18-19




Our faves - BritBeat! will be in Southern Indiana
Saturday, November 21 ~ Indiana Theatre in Terre Haute
Tickets are discounted until June 13 - so take advantage now! This show will put you in relaxation mode before the holidays kick in!
Watch my blog for a chance to win 2 tickets!

Ticket info here:



FREE ON KINDLE THIS FRIDAY! - It's Take Your Dog To Work Day!

Little Dog in the Sun
http://www.amazon.com/Little-Dog-Sun-Lanea-Stagg-ebook/dp/B00TPTO29W/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1435004883&sr=8-1&keywords=little+dog+in+the+sun

Recipe Records Cookbooks
www.reciperecordscookbook.com
blog:  www.rockblocks3.blogspot.com
radio:  www.blogtalkradio.com/RecipeRecords
twitter: @reciperecords
instagram:  RecipeRecords
lanea@reciperecordscookbook.com

Thursday, June 4, 2015

I Read The News Today ... Oh Boy!


Abby, Julia Baird, Lanea & Annie
Abbey Road on the River - Louisville 2015
Many announcements fill the blog today, so I will keep it brief....  You can listen to my latest interview at Hippie Radio in Nashville; details are in the linked press release below. Thanks to Nicole at 910 Public Relations (you know, the one after 909 ;) for the outstanding coverage!
I'm sharing a few pictures from the great Beatles festival in Louisville this past Memorial weekend as well. I have some delicious blogposts coming up soon...so stay tuned!


During Louisville's "Abbey Road on the River" we had the opportunity to meet John Lennon's half sister, Julia Baird. Check out her new book -  Imagine This-Growing up with my brother John Lennon. The festival has been our favorite for the past 8 years & this year's event lived up to our expectations. Members of Electric Light Orchestra (ELO) gave an outstanding performance that was a glowing surprise. 
Anthony Robustelli - Author of "I Want To Tell You"
Beatles author, Anthony Robustelli, gave a couple of terrific programs. He will be a featured author at The Fest for Beatles Fans in Chicago & I encourage you to take in his programs!



Anthony was featured in my blog & radio show about a year ago - it's worthy of a repeat!




THIS SUNDAY - TUNE IN!
I was interviewed by Nashville radio show host Richard Courtney for his "From Me To You" show on Hippie Radio - Nashville, Tennessee 94.5 It airs this Sunday at 9:00 a.m. Read details in this Press Release:

http://www.prlog.org/12462696-recipe-records-cookbook-author-dishes-on-hippie-radio-this-weekend.html






UPCOMING GIGS
I will be giving presentations at a couple Beatles festivals:





BEATLES AT THE RIDGE - WALNUT RIDGE, ARKANSAS  - September 18-19


Our faves - BritBeat will be in Southern Indiana
Saturday, November 21 ~ Indiana Theatre in Terre Haute
Tickets are discounted until June 13 - so take advantage now! This show will put you in relaxation mode before the holidays kick in!
Watch my blog for a chance to win 2 tickets!

Ticket info here:



NEW VIDEO -- CHECK THIS OUT!!!!!
A VERY ADORABLE PERSON READS LITTLE DOG IN THE SUN 
Ava in her "Summer Pose"





SUPER COOL NEW ITEM!

Original art piece titled "Beatles Cafe" - by Evansville artist, Jon Fuchs, is now available in stylish t-shirts! The t-shirt will be on our website in a couple of weeks. If you would like to purchase now, please send email to lanea@reciperecordscookbook.com 


Peace & Love,

Lanea Stagg
Recipe Records Cookbooks
www.reciperecordscookbook.com
blog:  www.rockblocks3.blogspot.com
radio:  www.blogtalkradio.com/recipe records
facebook: send friend request RecipeRecords Cookbook
twitter:  @RecipeRecords
instagram:  reciperecords