"Long Tall Sally" - Little Richard - Live (1956)

This is an outstanding live version of Little Richard performing “Long Tall Sally” on an American TV show from 1956. It’s pure raw rock and roll as only Little Richard could deliver it. Within about 7 more years the Beatles would intersect with Mr. Penniman and he would teach Paul McCartney how to sing this song at the Royal Variety Show for Queen Elizabeth.

Just prior to the show the Fab Four met with Little Richard who showed McCartney how to “ball up some saliva at the back of your throat” and just let it rip! McCartney took the advice and “Ripped It Up” that night and even a few weeks later on Swedish television when he gave the best performance of this song by the Beatles. Just watch Ringo beat the hell out of those drums, and then catch the expression on the face of the emcee as he tries to cope with something he has never experienced before. Beatlemania was about to go worldwide.

"Heaven" by Los Lonely Boys (2003)

Los Lonely Boys is one those groups of musicians who make up the rules as they go along. They meld the rhythms of salsa with pop music, and even some country, to bridge cultures and create their own unique sound. This live performance captures the group’s style perfectly; they take their music seriously; but never lose sight of the real goal, which is to make good music while enjoying them-selves.

I wanted to post the Spanish language version of this song, but it is not available on You Tube. On their first album they did a double sided disc, with DVD performances on the reverse side. Every song sung in English was so much better when captured in Spanish. Even without knowing all of the words, the melody is carefully nuanced, and the message of the song is never lost.

I’m taking a day off today; well actually not if I’m posting this. I just mean that today is a day to enjoy the early spring weather with a good book outside. The music is an added bonus. Have a great Thursday if you are reading this, and I will see you here tomorrow.