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5 Surprising Facts About Van Morrison’s ‘Moondance’

Eric Alper
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5 Surprising Facts About Van Morrison’s ‘Moondance’

Van Morrison’s Moondance, released on January 27, 1970, is one of those rare albums that transcends time, seamlessly blending jazz, soul, pop, and Irish folk into something truly magical. But even the most loyal fans might not know these intriguing facts about the record that cemented Morrison as a musical legend.

  1. A Move to the Mountains Sparked Inspiration
    After the commercial failure of Astral Weeks, Morrison retreated to a mountaintop home in the Catskills with his wife, Janet Planet. Surrounded by nature and artistic neighbors (including Bob Dylan), Morrison wrote the majority of Moondance’s tracks, blending his love for nature with a yearning for redemption.
  2. Goodbye, Jazz Band – Hello, Horn Section
    Unlike Astral Weeks, which featured jazz musicians, Morrison handpicked a new set of collaborators from Woodstock for Moondance. This included guitarist John Platania, saxophonist Jack Schroer, and keyboardist Jef Labes. The addition of a horn section brought a fresh and lively rhythm-and-blues vibe to the album.
  3. Recording Without Musical Charts
    Morrison recorded Moondance at New York’s A & R Studios with only the basic song structures in his head. He relied on the spontaneity of his band to develop the compositions, creating an atmosphere that allowed for “tasteful frills” to emerge organically.
  4. An Accidental Cover Shoot
    The album’s cover photo, captured by Elliot Landy at Morrison’s home, was carefully framed to hide a large pimple on the singer’s forehead. The result is an intimate portrait that perfectly mirrors the album’s personal and introspective nature.
  5. “Into the Mystic” Almost Had a Different Name
    One of the album’s most beloved tracks, “Into the Mystic,” was originally untitled during its development. It wasn’t until Morrison heard the final mix that he realized the name needed to evoke the spiritual journey at the heart of the song.

Moondance is a mood, a moment, and a masterpiece that continues to resonate over five decades later. Whether you’re losing yourself in the haunting beauty of “Into the Mystic” or dancing to the upbeat joy of “Caravan,” Moondance proves that Van Morrison’s genius lies in his ability to turn the ordinary into the extraordinary.

5 Surprising Facts About Derek and the Dominos’ “Layla and Other Assorted Love Songs”

Eric Alper
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5 Surprising Facts About Derek and the Dominos’ “Layla and Other Assorted Love Songs”

Eric Clapton’s Layla and Other Assorted Love Songs, released on November 9, 1970, is one of rock’s most celebrated albums. Known for its iconic title track, “Layla,” the album showcases Clapton’s passion, heartbreak, and artistry at a peak moment in his career. But beyond the music lies a treasure trove of untold stories. Here are five lesser-known facts about this legendary album.

  1. A Band Born from Frustration
    Derek and the Dominos emerged from Eric Clapton’s desire to escape the spotlight. Frustrated by the fame associated with Cream and Blind Faith, Clapton sought to create a band that prioritized music over celebrity. Even the name “Derek and the Dominos” was chosen to avoid his name overshadowing the group.
  2. Duane Allman’s Slide into History
    Guitarist Duane Allman’s contributions to the album are monumental. Allman and Clapton first met during an Allman Brothers concert, bonding immediately. Allman’s slide guitar brilliance defined tracks like “Layla,” cementing the song’s iconic status.
  3. A Spontaneous Recording Moment
    The recording of “Key to the Highway” wasn’t planned. The band overheard another artist playing the song in a neighboring studio and began jamming on it. Producer Tom Dowd rushed to capture the moment, which begins with the song’s signature fade-in.
  4. The Hidden Inspiration for “Layla”
    The album’s centerpiece was inspired by Clapton’s unrequited love for Pattie Boyd, who was then married to his friend George Harrison. Clapton found further inspiration in the Persian love story Layla and Majnun, a tale of unattainable love that mirrored his own feelings.
  5. An Album Cover with a Story
    The cover art features a painting by French artist Émile-Théodore Frandsen de Schomberg, chosen by Clapton for its resemblance to Boyd. The painting, titled La Fille au Bouquet, was later sold at auction in 2024 for nearly £2 million

Though initially met with lukewarm reception, Layla and Other Assorted Love Songs has stood the test of time, evolving into a revered classic. It’s more than an album—it’s a raw, emotional journey of love, loss, and redemption. Every riff, lyric, and note is a testament to the power of music to transcend personal pain and connect with the universal human experience.

5 Surprising Facts About John Lennon’s “John Lennon/Plastic Ono Band” Debut Album

Eric Alper
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5 Surprising Facts About John Lennon’s “John Lennon/Plastic Ono Band” Debut Album

When John Lennon released his debut solo studio album, John Lennon/Plastic Ono Band, on December 11, 1970, it was met with mixed reviews. Over time, it has come to be celebrated as his most powerful solo work—a raw, soul-baring album shaped by primal scream therapy and a reflection of Lennon’s turbulent life. But even the most devoted fans might not know these five fascinating facts about this iconic album.

  1. A Therapy Session Turned Soundtrack
    The album’s emotionally charged lyrics were deeply influenced by John Lennon’s primal scream therapy sessions with Arthur Janov. This psychological process pushed Lennon to confront his childhood traumas, which led to songs like “Mother” and “God” that bristle with vulnerability and self-discovery.
  2. The Beatles Were Still a Shadow
    While Lennon declared in the song “God” that he no longer believed in the Beatles, their legacy was palpable. Tracks like “Look at Me” reused fingerpicking techniques he learned during the band’s White Album sessions, and his former bandmate Ringo Starr played drums on the record.
  3. A Call to Phil Spector—Via Billboard Ad
    When Lennon wanted Phil Spector to co-produce the album, he couldn’t reach him directly. Instead, his manager placed an ad in Billboard magazine that read, “Phil! John is ready this weekend.” Spector eventually joined the project, though he wasn’t present for much of the recording process.
  4. A Birthday Gift from George Harrison
    On Lennon’s 30th birthday, during the recording of Plastic Ono Band, George Harrison brought a tape of a playful tune titled “It’s Johnny’s Birthday” to the studio. This moment of camaraderie showcased a rare moment of joy during the otherwise intense recording sessions.
  5. An Album That Echoed Childhood Rhymes
    The closing track, “My Mummy’s Dead,” borrows its melody from the nursery rhyme “Three Blind Mice.” This haunting choice underscored the album’s themes of childhood abandonment and emotional scars.

    John Lennon/Plastic Ono Band stripped away the veneer of stardom to reveal raw humanity, inspiring countless artists to do the same. From its stark production to its unfiltered emotion, it remains a milestone in rock history—a work that connects with listeners on the deepest level.

Cheech & Chong’s Hilarious Story of How They First Met

Eric Alper
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Cheech & Chong’s Hilarious Story of How They First Met

Cheech Marin and Tommy Chong talk about how they were working odd jobs when they first met in Canada. They tell Tom Green about how Cheech was working in pottery and resisting the draft while Chong was running an improve strip club. The rest is history…

5 Surprising Facts About Neil Young’s ‘After the Gold Rush’

Eric Alper
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5 Surprising Facts About Neil Young’s ‘After the Gold Rush’

Neil Young’s After the Gold Rush is a landmark album that transcends time, blending country, folk, and rock into a masterpiece. Released in September 1970, it quickly became a defining work for Young, solidifying his place as one of music’s most visionary artists. While fans know the iconic tracks, there’s still so much to uncover about this legendary album. Here are five lesser-known facts that shed new light on After the Gold Rush and its unforgettable songs.

1. The Album’s Concept Was Inspired by a Lost Screenplay

After the Gold Rush was heavily influenced by an unproduced screenplay written by Dean Stockwell and Herb Bermann. The story involved an apocalyptic ecological disaster that destroys the Topanga Canyon hippie community. Neil Young, who was living in Topanga at the time, found the screenplay so inspiring that he wrote much of the album within three weeks. Although the film never materialized, its themes resonate throughout the record, particularly in the title track and “Cripple Creek Ferry.”

2. “Only Love Can Break Your Heart” Was Written for Graham Nash

Neil Young penned “Only Love Can Break Your Heart” as a gesture of support for Graham Nash, who was reeling from his breakup with Joni Mitchell. The song’s poignant lyrics capture the heartbreak and vulnerability of the moment, making it one of Young’s most emotionally resonant tracks. Interestingly, it became Young’s first solo Top 40 hit, peaking at number 33 on the Billboard Hot 100.

3. “Southern Man” Sparked a Legendary Feud

The intense and politically charged “Southern Man” critiques the racial injustices of the American South. Its bold lyrics didn’t go unnoticed, prompting Lynyrd Skynyrd to respond with “Sweet Home Alabama.” Despite the perceived tension, Neil Young and Lynyrd Skynyrd’s Ronnie Van Zant shared mutual respect, with Van Zant often wearing Young’s T-shirt during performances, and Young occasionally playing “Sweet Home Alabama” live.

4. “Oh, Lonesome Me” Was a Coffeehouse Staple

Neil Young’s somber rendition of Don Gibson’s “Oh, Lonesome Me” dates back to his days performing in Toronto coffeehouses. His radically reimagined arrangement initially puzzled audiences, who thought it was a parody. The version on After the Gold Rush includes Young’s first use of harmonica on a recording, adding to the track’s haunting, introspective vibe.

5. Nils Lofgren Played Piano Despite No Experience

At just 18 years old, Nils Lofgren contributed piano parts to the album despite having little experience with the instrument. Neil Young brought him in, trusting his musical instincts and ability to adapt. Lofgren’s raw, emotive playing is especially prominent on tracks like “After the Gold Rush,” adding an unpolished charm that complements the album’s overall feel.

 

Robbie Williams Teases New Album with Rock Legends Glenn Hughes and Tony Iommi

Eric Alper
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Robbie Williams Teases New Album with Rock Legends Glenn Hughes and Tony Iommi

Robbie Williams is back at it, teasing fans with a brand-new album that promises to pack a serious punch. In an interview with NME, the iconic entertainer revealed details about his upcoming project, including an unexpected collaboration with Black Sabbath’s Tony Iommi and the legendary Glenn Hughes.

The news comes as Williams rides high on the release of his semi-autobiographical biopic, Better Man, a wild cinematic journey directed by Michael Gracey (The Greatest Showman). The film, which hit cinemas over Christmas, turns Williams into a CGI monkey and explores his life from childhood to his chart-topping days with Take That and beyond.

While chatting with NME, Williams dropped the bombshell about the upcoming album and a track called “Rocket,” which features massive guitars and, according to Williams, is “adrenaline-filled and balls-to-the-wall.” Fans first caught wind of this powerhouse collaboration back in September 2024, when drummer Karl Brazil spilled the beans on the Percussion Discussion podcast, calling the track “a rocker and really cool.”

Williams revealed his inspiration for the album, saying, “I wanted to make the album that I’d make if I’d left Take That now, knowing what I know.” And while this new project leans heavily into rock, Williams admits that “pop songs turned up along the way,” joking, “Ah, fuck – a hit!”

This new album will mark Williams’ 13th as a solo artist and his first full-length record since 2019’s The Christmas Present. While there’s no title or release date yet, fans might not have to wait too long, as Williams hinted at previewing new material during his massive 2025 tour across the UK, Ireland, and Europe, kicking off on May 31 in Edinburgh.

Beyond the album, Williams seems unstoppable, with projects ranging from opening a hotel to launching a clothing brand and venturing into the drinks industry.

NME gave Better Man a three-star review, calling it a “big swing” and praising its ambition. Whether it’s swinging as a CGI monkey or rocking out with Tony Iommi, Robbie Williams continues to keep fans guessing—and we’re here for all of it.

Credit: NME for the interview and insights.

David Lee Roth Unveils Acoustic’ Forgiveness’ and Reinvents a Rock Legacy

Eric Alper
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David Lee Roth Unveils Acoustic’ Forgiveness’ and Reinvents a Rock Legacy

David Lee Roth is keeping fans on their toes as 2024 wraps up. Late last month, the legendary Van Halen frontman unveiled a new acoustic rendition of his song “Forgiveness,” adding another layer to his ever-evolving artistry. This stripped-down version hits differently than the one he released in February, which saw Roth mash his melody and lyrics with Taylor Swift’s dreamy “Lavender Haze,” cheekily rebranded as “Lavender Forgiveness.”

Roth’s latest track is part of a series of unpredictable releases that continue to pop up on his schedule—or lack thereof. Back in 2023, the rock icon rang out the year with a whimsical original holiday tune, “Talking Christmas Blues.” He’s also reimagined classics like Tommy Tutone’s “867-5309/Jenny” and Gerry Rafferty’s sax-laden anthem, “Baker Street,” proving he’s as daring as ever when it comes to revisiting the hits.

For fans of the Diamond Dave experience, both versions of “Forgiveness” are must-hears. Stream them now and witness the many shades of one of rock’s most electrifying personalities. Who needs predictability when you’ve got David Lee Roth?

Queen Releases Electrifying 1975 Performance of “Keep Yourself Alive”

Eric Alper
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Queen Releases Electrifying 1975 Performance of “Keep Yourself Alive”

Queen fans, rejoice! A rare gem from rock history has surfaced—a thrilling video of the band performing “Keep Yourself Alive” on Christmas Eve, 1975, at the iconic Hammersmith Odeon in London. This unforgettable moment comes on the heels of the remastered and expanded release of Queen’s self-titled debut album, Queen I.

Let’s take a trip back to the beginning. Written by the legendary Brian May, “Keep Yourself Alive” was the band’s debut single, hitting the airwaves just a week before their first album arrived in the UK. North America got its taste of the magic three months later. Now, Queen’s groundbreaking debut has been given the royal treatment with a jaw-dropping 6CD + 1 LP box set.

This isn’t just an album re-release; it’s a treasure trove for fans. The Queen I box set includes 63 tracks, featuring 43 brand new mixes, restored to the album’s original intended running order. You’ll hear intimate, behind-the-scenes audio of Queen crafting their early hits, rare demos, live performances, and previously unheard recordings—including their very first gig in London back in August 1970. Oh, and remember “Mad the Swine,” the track that was left off the 1973 release? It’s back in its rightful place.

To top it all off, this collector’s dream comes with a stunning 108-page book, filled with handwritten lyrics, unseen photos, and band memorabilia, offering a glimpse into Queen’s meteoric rise.

Produced by the iconic Roy Thomas Baker and recorded at Trident Studios, Queen I is more than an album—it’s the sound of a band on the brink of greatness. And now, with the 1975 performance of “Keep Yourself Alive” streaming online, you can witness the raw energy and charisma that launched one of rock’s greatest legacies.

The Vapors Announce New Album ‘Wasp In A Jar’

Eric Alper
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The Vapors Announce New Album ‘Wasp In A Jar’

“We look at the band with the philosophy of Viv Savage from Spinal Tap: ‘Have a good time all the time’,” laughs bassist Steve Smith of renowned New Wave veterans The Vapors about continuing the legacy of the band as well as the release of the fourth album in over four decades, WASP IN A JAR (release date: February 28, 2025 via Vapors Own Records). “Getting together and playing music is still really fun for us -bouncing ideas off each other and trying different things.”

The exuberant fun that the band had in the studio translates well to the finished album. The follow-up to 2020’s Together, the new album follows its three predecessors in conveying an individual feeling of its own, both lyrically and musically. “We just felt that the title Wasp In A Jar captured the feel of the album – that sort of bottled up angst,” says guitarist Danny Fenton. “There are some slower, more heartfelt moments on the album, but on the whole, it’s a fairly punk record. It wasn’t something we sat down and planned, but the band came from punk in the late ’70s, so we just kind of leaned into that in the studio.”

Built around classic punk riffage with a chorus that opens up and toys with expectation, opening track “Hit The Ground Running” retains the breakneck rhythms that fans know and love from their previous releases. With nary a moment to catch a breath, The Vapors follow it up with “The Human Race” which Danny describes as a kind of “ballad of The Vapors.” “Carry On,” a statement about the current climate (“When the government needs to know / That’s when the government needs to go”), weaves around shimmering arpeggiated chords and Dave Fenton’s haunting vocal lines (“Carry on / As if nothing happened / Carry on / Like we did before”) before evolving into an epic and soaring outro that begs for an audience singalong.

“That’s like asking a parent who’s their favorite child,” replies Danny when asked his favorite songs on the album. “They all have significance to us in their own different ways. ‘The Human Race’ is about the band, ‘Look Away Now’ is about Dave dealing with his Parkinson’s Disease and ‘Miss You Girl’ is about children wanting to move out of the family home. That’s not to say that they are the three I’m most proud of… we are proud of them all.”

Dave’s lyrics are as observational, poetic and open to interpretation as ever. If New Clear Days (1980) mixed commentary about the mundanities of late ’70s/early ’80s life combined with the paranoia stirred up by the state of the world as it was back then, Magnets (1981) brought a more personalized study and Together (2020) – a joyful celebration of the eventual reunion, then Wasp In A Jar is a combination of all three… all of which are glued together here by current personal and global commentaries, all performed by a band full of ability, confidence and positivity and very clearly enjoying themselves, 45 years on from their recorded debut.

Billie Eilish’s ‘Birds of a Feather’ Is 2024’s Most-Streamed Song On Spotify

Eric Alper
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Billie Eilish’s ‘Birds of a Feather’ Is 2024’s Most-Streamed Song On Spotify

Billie Eilish has done it again! Her breezy pop anthem, Birds of a Feather, has become Spotify’s most-streamed song of 2024, racking up a staggering 1.775 billion streams. The track, written by Eilish and her brother/collaborator Finneas, is the crown jewel of her third album, Hit Me Hard and Soft.

The 23-year-old phenomenon continues to break barriers with Birds of a Feather, which peaked at No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 and has ruled the Hot Rock & Alternative Songs chart for an incredible 21 weeks. Grammy buzz is in full swing, as the song is nominated for Song of the Year, Record of the Year, and Best Pop Solo Performance at the February 2 ceremony.

The album Hit Me Hard and Soft is also making Grammy waves, earning nods for Album of the Year and Best Pop Vocal Album. Meanwhile, the lead single Lunch is up for Best Music Video, and L’Amour de Ma Vie [Over Now Extended Version] is in the running for Best Pop Dance Recording.

This powerhouse sibling duo is no stranger to Grammy glory. From 32 nominations, Eilish has already snagged nine wins, including two each for Song of the Year and Record of the Year. Finneas, at just 27, boasts 10 Grammy wins out of 17 nominations and made history as the youngest Producer of the Year at age 22.

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That Eric Alper

Eric Alper is a 6-time nominee for Publicist of the Year during Canadian Music Week and has overseen the publicity campaigns for over 183 JUNO Award-nominated albums (and 16 in 2025), 45 Grammy-nominated albums, including 47 JUNO Award, 58 Canadian Folk Music Award, 126 Maple Blues Award-winning albums and is also truly honoured to work with some of the biggest and most important artists of our time.

Contact me: eric@thatericalper.com

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