Son Of A Preacher Man- Dusty Springfield: I will admit that the first time I heard this song was in 1994, 25 yrs after its release. I heard it while watching Pulp Fiction. I had no idea what the name of the singer/song was, so I had to wait until the credits. I ran out and bought Dusty in Memphis. This track does not sound 40 years old, but it is. It was released in 1969, and it still sounds as good today as it did 40 years ago! We miss you Dusty!
The Vapors- Biz Markie: This song also reminds me of 1994, homecoming to be exact. My friends Tony, Mauricio, DJ Turrtle & I had so much fun driving around La Puente to this song. We must have played it over 40 times that night. I still have such found memories of this track everytime I hear it! This is the 5th song on Biz’ 1988 debut album, “Goin’ Off.” My favorite line by far: “Nigga Please! You Work For UPS!” Classic! So any punks out there can catch the vapors!
My Fantasy- Guy: Guy had many hits in the late 80’s- the early 90s. None bigger than their classic slow jam “Let’s Chill.” Singer Teddy Riley became one of the most influential producers in music, but back in 1988, he was trying to get his name on the map. Teddy Riley created a whole new genre called New Jack Swing. This new genre was largely due in part to the release of “My Fantasy” taken from the 1988 soundtrack to the movie Do The Right Thing.” Guy became somewhat known in the R&B scene, but Teddy blew up, becoming one of the most well known producers around.
Runaround Sue- Dion: OK, I didn’t do this on purpose, but here another track over 45 years old! Released by Dion in 1961, this song quickly became a hit. It could be heard at the local Malt Shop, or in a Ford T-Bird being driven by a greaser. This is one of the catchiest Rock N Roll songs ever. In fact, Rolling Stone Magazine ranked it #342 on their Top 500 Songs of All-Time. Not too shabby for a song recorded in the early 60’s. So get your Polka-Dot poodle skirt, your dancing shoes and drive to your local Malt Shop and Dance the night away! Come on, don’t be a square! Be hip, don’t make me tell you to “Sit On It!”
Season of the Witch- Donovan: Here is another song that is over 40 years old, yet it sounds as fresh today as it did when it was first released. This song is the 6th track off Donovan’s 1966 album Sunshine Superman. Donovan was one of the first artist to enjoy any real success here in the states, and he is a cult icon overseas.