“(You’re So Square) Baby I Don’t Care” is a playful rock ‘n’ roll classic from Elvis Presley, featured in the iconic Jailhouse Rock film. Written by Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller, the song is about loving someone despite (or because of) their “square” ways, it’s a timeless ode to individuality and affection.
Michael Jackson’s Isolated Vocals For The Jackson 5’s “I’ll Be There”
“I’ll Be There,” released on August 28, 1970, marked a pivotal moment for The Jackson 5, becoming their fourth consecutive number-one hit and solidifying their legacy beyond bubblegum pop. Written by Berry Gordy, Hal Davis, Bob West, and Willie Hutch, the ballad became the group’s most successful single ever, with 4.2 million copies in the United States, and 6.1 million copies worldwide.
5 Surprising Facts About Huey Lewis and the News’ “Sports”
Released in 1983, Huey Lewis and the News’ Sports quickly became one of the defining albums of the decade, packed with hits that are still radio staples today. But even superfans might not know these five fascinating facts about this iconic record.
1. Cleveland Wasn’t Always the Heart of Rock and Roll
The idea for “The Heart of Rock & Roll” came after the band played a gig in Cleveland, a city they initially underestimated. The original lyric celebrated Cleveland, but Huey Lewis broadened it to “the heart of rock and roll is still beating” to recognize vibrant music scenes across the U.S. Fun fact: regional versions of the song even name-dropped cities like Toronto, New Haven, and St. Louis!
2. The Mystery Woman in “I Want a New Drug”
The unforgettable woman in the “I Want a New Drug” music video is actress Signy Coleman, whose mother was a friend of Lewis’s mother, and she also starred in the video for “Heart and Soul.” Her recurring appearances gave fans a subtle connection between the band’s iconic visuals.
3. A Production Style Ahead of Its Time
The band experimented with modern production techniques, like using the LinnDrum machine, to craft a sound that fused old-school rock with 80s tech. This innovative approach helped songs like “I Want a New Drug” and “Bad Is Bad” stand out as fresh yet timeless.
4. A Bar with a Story
The album cover features the band at the 2 AM Club in Mill Valley, California, where they honed their chops before making it big. The bar was chosen because the band felt it reflected where most people watched sports – adding another layer to the album’s playful title.
5. Hits Built for Radio
Huey Lewis openly admitted the album was designed with one goal in mind: creating radio-friendly singles. The band aimed for hits on every track, and it worked, producing four Top 10 singles, including “Heart and Soul,” “If This Is It,” and “Walking on a Thin Line.”
Packed with energy, relatable lyrics, and clever production, it’s no wonder Sports spent 160 weeks on the Billboard charts and became 7× Platinum. The heart of rock and roll, indeed.
10 Best Songs to Lift Your Mood
Music has this magical way of transforming our emotions. Feeling down? Stressed? Just need a little pick-me-up? The right song can change your day in an instant. Whether it’s an infectious beat, uplifting lyrics, or a melody that just makes you smile, here are 10 of the best songs to lift your mood and remind you that life can be pretty amazing.
1. “Walking on Sunshine” – Katrina and the Waves
From the first note, this song radiates pure joy. Its energetic rhythm and cheerful lyrics make it impossible not to dance or at least crack a smile. Perfect for blasting on a sunny day or when you need to bring some sunshine indoors.
2. “Happy” – Pharrell Williams
A modern anthem of positivity, “Happy” is exactly what it promises to be. Clap along, sing out loud, and let this feel-good tune be your soundtrack for turning any mood around.
3. “Here Comes the Sun” – The Beatles
This classic by George Harrison captures the feeling of light breaking through after darkness. Its soothing melody and hopeful lyrics are a gentle reminder that better days are always ahead.
5. “Don’t Stop Me Now” – Queen
Few songs capture unstoppable energy like this Queen classic. Whether you’re gearing up for a night out or just need a power boost, Freddie Mercury’s vocals will make you feel like you can conquer anything.
6. “Lovely Day” – Bill Withers
Sometimes, all you need is a smooth groove to remind you of life’s simple pleasures. Bill Withers’ voice wraps around you like a warm hug, setting the tone for a truly lovely day.
7. “Shake It Off” – Taylor Swift
Got drama? Shake it off! This pop anthem is perfect for brushing off negativity and embracing your unapologetically fabulous self.
8. “Good as Hell” – Lizzo
Lizzo knows how to hype us up like no one else. With empowering lyrics and a beat that screams confidence, this track is your go-to for instant self-love vibes.
9. “I’m Still Standing” – Elton John
This timeless track is the ultimate pick-me-up. Elton’s infectious piano riffs and lyrics of resilience make it a must-listen when you need a reminder of your strength.
10. “Uptown Funk” – Mark Ronson feat. Bruno Mars
Nothing lifts a mood faster than funky grooves and Bruno Mars’ charisma. This song is pure fun and will have you dancing like nobody’s watching.
Was the First Heavy Metal Song Written in 1875?
Guitarist Anthony Parker blew minds with his electrifying cover of Edvard Grieg’s “In the Hall of the Mountain King,” calling it “the first heavy metal song ever written.” Parker quipped, “Some people think Black Sabbath invented heavy metal. Some claim that Blue Cheer did….but I know the truth. The first heavy metal song was written in 1875 by Edvard Grieg.”
Music Canada’s Gold & Platinum Program Celebrates 50 Years
Music Canada’s Gold & Platinum certification program is celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2025. For half a century, the program has marked the milestone sales and streaming accomplishments of artists in Canada – making the distinctive Gold and Platinum plaques the most recognizable symbol of commercial success in the music industry.
Since 1975, the Gold & Platinum program has recognized popular music in Canada, providing a unique historical timeline of the music Canadians have loved over the past five decades.
“As we look back on 50 years of the program’s history, you can see the impact and reach of songs that defined generations, hit singles that captured the culture of the day, and all the ways that different technologies have influenced how we consume the music of our lives,” says Patrick Rogers, CEO of Music Canada. “There is no greater benchmark of success than a Gold & Platinum certification, because it reflects what Canadians listen to and love.”
In its first year, the program issued 27 Album and seven Physical Single certifications. The program’s first-ever certifications, which were issued on August 1, 1975, were:
|
Paul Anka |
Anka |
Platinum Album |
|
Bachman-Turner Overdrive |
Four Wheel Drive |
Platinum Album |
|
Beau Dommage |
Beau Dommage |
Platinum Album |
|
Paul Anka |
Feelings |
Gold Album |
|
Jim Croce |
Greatest Hits |
Gold Album |
|
John Denver |
Back Home Again |
Gold Album |
|
John Denver |
Evening with John Denver |
Gold Album |
|
George McCrae |
Rock Your Baby |
Gold Album |
|
The Guess Who |
The Best of Vol. 2 |
Gold Album |
|
Paul Anka |
“I Don’t Like to Sleep Alone” |
Gold Physical Single |
The program has always reflected how people listen to their favourite songs and albums, beginning with vinyl albums and 45 rpm vinyl singles, then cassette tapes, CDs, digital downloads, ringtones, audio streaming and most recently, video streaming. As the industry continues to evolve, the Gold & Platinum program will grow alongside it and continue to celebrate the music that Canadians choose to listen to, wherever they choose to listen to it.
Today, the genres of music and the artists finding commercial success are broader and more diverse than ever before. In 2024, the program certified 1,025 Singles and 211 Albums, including:
|
Benson Boone |
“Beautiful Things” |
Diamond Single |
|
Tate McRae |
“you broke me first” |
Eight Times Platinum Single |
|
Sabrina Carpenter |
“Espresso” |
Seven Times Platinum Single |
|
Dax |
“Dear Alcohol” |
Double Platinum Single |
|
Josh Ross |
“Trouble” |
Double Platinum Single |
|
Koriass, Jay Scøtt |
“Matusalem” |
Gold Single |
|
Preston Pablo |
“Dance Alone” |
Gold Single |
|
Cameron Whitcomb |
“Quitter” |
Gold Single |
|
Charlotte Cardin |
99 Nights |
Platinum Album |
|
Karan Aujla |
Making Memories |
Gold Album |
Music Canada will celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Gold & Platinum program throughout the year with special events, playlists and presentations. And to officially mark the anniversary, each new Gold & Platinum program plaque presented in 2025 to artists and their teams will include a commemorative 50th Anniversary pin.
Music Canada is the trade association representing Canada’s major record labels: Sony Music Entertainment Canada, Universal Music Canada and Warner Music Canada. Like its members, Music Canada is a partner to the industry, working with artists, independent labels, publishers, platforms, associations and others, in advancing forward-looking policies to ensure a dynamic and successful Canadian music ecosystem which returns value to music creators.
Ice-T and David Gilmour Join Forces for a Bold Take on Pink Floyd’s “Comfortably Numb”
Musician and actor Ice-T and his band Body Count have teamed up with Pink Floyd’s legendary guitarist David Gilmour for a powerful hip hop reimagining of the iconic song “Comfortably Numb.” Initially, Ice-T approached Gilmour for permission to use the guitar track, but the collaboration deepened when Gilmour offered to play on the track himself. “I really like the new lyrics,” Gilmour shared. “They are talking about the world we live in currently…just what we need.”
COOL: Valley Youth Theater Appears On Local TV in 2003. VERY COOL: Emma Stone Is In The Cast
In 2003, the cast of Valley Youth Theatre’s Schoolhouse Rock play, featuring a young Emma Stone, lit up Good Morning Arizona weather segments with Brad Perry. This charming ensemble gave viewers a sunny preview of their show, showcasing the star power to come!
