Just when I was on the brink of bemoaning my shortened summer vacation courtesy of Dr. Laura and my own misadventures in Marconi’s Box, I noticed a tweet from the prolific and exhausted singer-songwriter-author Rosanne Cash. Lamenting a slew of radio and TV show appearances to promote her newly released memoir “Composed,” the alt-country/folk icon tweeted:

“20 press & radio, 5 TV shows, 3 photo sessions & 9 readings in 7 cities in 2 weeks. Stamina showing cracks.”

I haven’t read the book–which will debut at #20 on the New York Times Bestseller List this Sunday–yet, but it’s on my list. Let’s all pick-up copies and knock Laura Ingraham off her tenuous and inexplicable perch on the Non-Fiction List.

BTW Cash’s “The List” is a must listen collection from last year. A select “List” of 10 songs her dad, the legendary Johnny Cash deemed essentials. He apparently constructed the list of “100 Essential Country Songs” over 35 years ago during her first tour with him. I’m not sure how she narrowed it down ( there may be 9 additional albums in the offing), but her interpretations are unique, fresh and often memorable. My favorites: “Sea of Heartbreak” features Bruce Springsteen and “Heartaches by the Number, ” with Elvis Costello. Cash’s voice blends perfectly with their soulful crags.

Her sultry interpretation of the classic country melodrama”Ode to Billie Joe” isn’t featured on the album, but the performance here was captured live this past July Fourth on New York’s Governor’s Island. It’s a perfect elixir on a mellow summer sojourn.

Drive safe Play nice. Think peace.

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Happy 7oth Birthday, Ringo Starr! The most lovable Beatle is ageless. He looks great and is still going strong with albums and All Star tours and all those happy, peaceful Ringo vibes. His present to the world: “Every day at noon people should say, write or e-mail the words ‘peace and love.” Let’s try it. The power of the words, the peaceful, loving vibrations may just move the world in a positive direction! Worth a try.

Last year a clever filmmaker put a sardonic twist on Ringo’s peppy 1974 “The No No Song.” Anyone nostalgic for the crazy days of the Bush administration will love this send-up. I have to admit: ‘W’ gave us so much material. Maybe Jeb wouldn’t be such a disaster. Wait, did I really write that? Just thinking out loud. In the middle of the night.

Drive safe. Play nice. Think peace.
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As we celebrate the big, bold dreams that fuel the American psyche, let’s also embrace all the hard work it takes to realize our aspirations. And revel in the serendipitous detours along the way.

Today, I am reminded of the radio hiatus ( not my idea) that landed me in a classroom teaching ESL to adult immigrants. I recommend the experience ( check your local area for literacy volunteer programs) to everyone, especially those skeptical of recent immigrants. Just spending a few hours with these hard-working folks as they struggle to master a new language, apply for jobs, college, citizen tests will dispel so many of the myths of the lazy, scheming interloper looking to siphon off services and live off the fat of the American land. Most of the people I worked with epitomize the immigrant stories many of our grandparents or great grandparents exemplified. Proud and hard working, they’re not looking for handouts, just help as they assimilate into our grand tapestry.

Happy Birthday, America. It’s time to leave our divisions in the the ditch and dance on our fertile common ground. Let us rejoice in all the principles that unite us, while celebrating the glory of our rugged individualism.

Drive safe. Play nice. Think peace.

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If we have to choose between trains, planes and automobiles, most Americans would hit the road in our cars. The lure of the open road, the freedom of our own vehicle going in our own time at our own speed epitomizes America’s independent spirit. That traveler’s creed has also contributed to our national addiction to oil, leaving us in our current vulnerable state.

We are getting better with mass transit, but I doubt we will ever entirely shed our desire to hit the open road on our own terms. Ironically,Simon & Garfunkel’s classic “America,” finds young lovers exploring the country via a Greyhound bus, which easily ranks lowest among this wanderer’s list of transit choices. I’ll take the romanticism of the train over the bus any day.

Still nothing beats riding in a car–a bright red ‘57 Chevy or a ‘68 bright yellow VW bug– with the top down, a tanned young man in the passenger seat and the radio blaring Springsteen.

Hey, wherever you go this holiday weekend, take it easy and take some time to celebrate everything that makes America so beautiful, bewildering and buoyant.

Drive safe. Play nice. Think peace.

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It’s that true blue rebel spirit that is our American birthright. Whether born here or immigrants, all who toil on American soil fight to carve out our own version of the American dream. And that includes our right–our duty–to speak up and out on injustice. As we celebrate our nation’s birthday, let’s be grateful for all the gifts and opportunities America has bestowed upon us and fearless in our pursuit to make it a safer, brighter, more welcoming place for all.

Drive safe. Play nice. Think peace.

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Every time a Republican votes NO a cynic sighs. And it’s one of those been there, jaded sighs that still begs an undertone imploring the powers that be to bestow upon us a fresh crop of Mr. Smiths taking on Washington with a 21st century “for-the-people” zeal.

In the meantime, here’s one for the heartless, out-of-touch Republicans who think the answer to unemployment is “Get a job.” Instant karma can’t come fast enough for these fools. Let’s hope by November some of them will be hitting the pavement. Of course, they’ve already lined their pockets so it’s doubtful most of them will have to get by on merely a song.

Drive safe. Play nice. Think peace.

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We still need you, we’ll still feed you now that you’re sixty-four plus four. Happy 68th, Paul McCartney. Hey, Vera, Chuck & Dave are getting up there, too.

Drive safe. Play nice. Think silly love songs.

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Maybe it’s not the elephant dung after all. The explanation for that “suspicious” South Carolina primary may be a simple case of dopey voter logic. James Clyburn, the state’s seemingly only sane and noble pol and White House press secretary Robert Gibbs publicly cast doubt on the election of dubious Democratic Senate candidate Alvin Greene, an unemployed military vet with nary a political pedigree or visible campaign not to mention a pending felony Internet porn charge.

“You can smell the elephant dung,” Clyburn told candy Crowley last Sunday on CNN’s “State of the Union.”

But while that colorful description may be among my favorite political one-liners, the GOP may not be behind Alvin Greene’s unlikely nomination. And faulty voting machines may not be the culprit either.
The offenders may be the voters themselves. As one foolish voter admitted, “I voted for him because he sounded like the singer Al Green.”

Hey if you can vote for the guy you’d most like to have a beer with, why not cast a vote for a dude whose name sounds like an old pop star.

Wonder if Alvin Greene can carry a tune. Or even do Karaoke. Let’s hope Rev. Al prays only the informed bother to come out to vote next time.

Drive safe. Play nice. Think peace.

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I’ve been on a John Prine jag lately. Check out my lastest NJP review of his his new album, a live compilation, “John Prine: In Person & On Stage.”
Prime Prine: Legend Shines ‘In Person’ | NEWS JUNKIE POST
Please tweet, digg & comment.

It’s a superb collection–really captures Prine’s affable, raconteur style. Still wish he included his haunting classic “Lake Marie.” So here he is last January on Elvis Costello’s “Spectacle.” Oh, so sweet and sad.

Drive safe. Play nice. Think peace.

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If you get a chance catch “Carole King and James Taylor Live at the Troubadour.” It’s in heavy rotation on PBS this weekend. Oh, so good, even with the pledge breaks ( and the show is so good, you’ll want to ante up, even if you already made your annual contribution). They still sound–and look–great! This performance of the classic Carole wrote and JT first made famous is from the 2006 James Taylor tribute. Hope to see them live in NYC later this month.

Speaking of NYC, Justice Sonia Sotomayor was in town Friday as the housing project where she spent most of her childhood was officially re-named the Sonia Sotomayor Houses. It’s the first time the city has named a public housing project after a living person. Quite a well deserved honor for an inspirational person!

Inspiration of a different sort for all the hopeless romantics among us: Limbag rushes to the alter Saturday. The fourth Mrs. Limbaugh, Kathryn Rogers is an event planner, nearly 30 year’s the bloviator’s junior. Hey kids, true love comes in all shapes and sizes. Was it something he said or the size of his wallet? In case it’s not happily ever after, Ann Coulter is warming up in the bullpen for a shot at number five.

And Stephanie Miller, Liz Winstead and Maureen Dowd have been spotted sporting black veils. Coincidence? You tell me.

Oh, just heard: Elton John played at the “Hawaiian themed” affair. What the hell was the Rocket Man thinking? Can’t need the reported cool mil fee. Or can he? maybe EJ lost more $$$$ on “Next Fall” than he’s letting on. Let’s hope the little play that could picks up the Best Play Tony next Sunday. But Elton, really, another auction maybe, but Rush’s wedding? How can you sing while holding your nose?

Rumors are already rumbling about the shocking Gore split. Did they simply grow apart, as they said, or is there another person in the mix? It’s total speculation but Al has been known to cavort with Mama Nature. And I heard Tipper’s stepping out with an aging Heavy Metal drummer. All uncorroborated, of course.

Drive safe. Play nice. Think weekend!

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Maybe it’s because President Obama’s awarding him a coveted prize tonight, or maybe Paul McCartney really likes our beleaguered Prez, but at a presser today, the music icon admonished critics, “Obama’s a great guy, so lay off him!” Read more about Sir Paul’s comments and the grand Gershwin Prize he’s set to receive tonight, along with a tribute concert fit for rock royalty, in my latest NJP piece. hey, please tweet, digg and comment. As always, I appreciate your support.

McCartney Talks Music, Politics Before Accepting Gershwin Prize | NEWS JUNKIE POST

Oh, and mere mortals who couldn’t snag tix, fret not, PBS will air the concert on July 28. Check local listings.

And of course, Sir Paul serenaded Michelle Obama with a special song. Tres bien!

Drive safe. Play nice. Think peace.

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John Prine, the legendary folk poet offers a beautiful portrait of a struggling veteran. “With a purple heart and a monkey on his back,” Sam Stone fights his way back on the Home Front. So sweet and so sad. Whatever your political leanings, remember to thank service men and women and veterans for their service and sacrifices.

Drive safe. Play nice Think peace.

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Hey RG fans, we’re gonna give you a jump on the summer soundtrack with a series of reviews and nudges in the direction of cool new tunes. Emily Robison and Martie Maguire, the sisters who usually play second fiddle to Natalie Maines in The Dixie Chicks are moonlighting as Court Yard Hounds. And their self -titled debut album is worth a holiday ride. Besides the catchy first single “The Coast,” there’s lots of heavy lyrics shrouded in breezy folk-pop music, heart-melting harmonies and some impressive guitar, too. Read more in my NJP review. And, you know the drill: please tweet, digg, comment as you see fit. Always appreciated!
Court Yard Hounds:Two Chicks From The Shadows Score A Hit | NEWS JUNKIE POST

Drive safe. Play nice. Think summer!

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The “Say No” Repubs are threatening to put the kibosh on unemployment extensions again. Short-sighted, of course, as those bennies could come in handy when some of them hit the pavement next year. Yeah, yeah, I know all about the ensuing GOP upswing. Guess, I’m just not buying it. I also don’t see how folks –even Republicans–can believe some of these low to no government types blaming Obama for the Gulf oil spill. Now they want the government to take control. Convenient, don’t you think?

Anyway, financial stress is not just an American malady. The price of excess has caught up with the spendy trendy Duchess of York. The Royals are surely spinning again over the latest scandal that finds Fergie caught on tape in a News of the World sting promising entree to her ex-hubby Prince Andrew, Britain’s business envoy. Doesn’t look good, of course but while it’s tawdry, apparently nothing illegal about such a cash for cache deal. While she remains mum, Andy’s mum the Queen is no doubt miffed and may strip Fergie of her title. Let’s hope not. I think the Duchess should move to NYC and sign on for a reality show. She’d fit in as smoothly as clotted cream at high tea with that spoiled and wacky bunch on “The Real Housewives of NYC.” Move over, Luann. A Duchess–even a dethroned one–trumps a divorced Countess. Even one with a tacky disco rap tune.

As for our obsession with crowing celebrity royalty on this side of the Pond,”American Idol” wraps up tonight with a two hour finale that should crown Crystal Bowersox. The early favorite, she had been faltering in the last few weeks. Looked like it was Lee DeWyze’s title to lose. And sorry to say ( I am a Lee booster as well as a Crystal fan) but he did just that. And Crystal nailed all three of her songs. She wants it big time. She’s ready. And he sort of choked. Still he’s got a great, soulful rock voice and low-key presence, and will surely get to leave the paint fumes behind and score a record deal. But Crystal should win the well-deserved title. Not that it’s done all that much for Reuben, Fantasia or Taylor Hicks. And not winning didn’t hurt Daughtry, Jennifer Hudson or Adam Lambert.

I know, I know, for someone who said she wasn’t getting involved, I sure sound invested. By the way, for fans of “Watching TV with Mom,” she’s backing out of the finale. “What do I need with two hours of noise? You watch it, then call me up and say ‘Crystal won.’ I don’t need to waste my time with music I’m not crazy about and all that crazy hair and clothes.” Okay, Mom. “And you said they get makeovers? When? When they’re not on anymore. What good will that do me?” Well, it is a fair question, I guess.

Don’t worry, Mom. I’ll watch, so you won’t have to.

Drive safe. play nice. Think peace.

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If a simple twist of fate finds you stuck inside of Mobile with the Memphis blues again, just hum a few lines from Dylan’s “Subterranean Homesick Blues” and you’ll be blowin’ in that cool wind. “Hurricane” is one of his classics. And it brought attention to an infamous injustice, imprisoning Reuben “Hurricane” Carter for a crime he didn’t commit. Music can help. In so many ways.

Happy 69th, Zimmy. Thanks for all the great music.

Drive safe. Play nice. Think peace.

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Even if you’re not from Texas, the Lone Star State’s dopey new text book modifications may find their way into your local classrooms. The state publishes more text books than any other, so what is printed in Texas surely won’t stay there. Among changes: Separation of church and state is out, Jefferson Davis is in. At least the didn’t vote to change the name of the Slave Trade to the proposed “Atlantic Triangular Trade.” That one was a little too hard to swallow even in Texas.

But while they boast Bush, Perry and the most executions in the nation, Texas also has given us great music from folks like Nanci Griffith, Darden Smith, the Dixie Chicks and Lyle Lovett. Good with the bad, kids. There’s always some sort of silver lining. Even hidden under a ten gallon hat.

Drive safe. Play nice. Think peace.

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Legendary singer/actress Lena Horne died at 92. The pioneering performer, who battled racism, forged a triumphant career that garnered her fans spanning generations.
R.I.P.

Drive safe. Play nice. Think peace.

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Joan Crawford, the ultimate “Mommie Dearest.” Oh so thankful she wasn’t mine!

I am so proud to wish a Happy Mother’s Day to my mom, Susan Arkawy. You are the best. And I am truly blessed.

Drive safe. Play nice. Think take-out! Love to all the great moms!

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“What a drag it is getting old.” Let’s dedicate that one to Naomi Campbell’s mom. “Put down that phone, Naomi. And eat a sandwich!”

For the Gosselin gaggle, of course. “Open the door long ( fake) hair.” So your mama can’t dance, so what? At least she knows how to bring home the bacon. But she’d rather have daddy or the nannies fry it up in a pan.

Happy Mother’s Day. A special hug for my mom. People say if you’re born with a good mother you’ve won the lottery. Guess that makes me a Power Ball/Mega Millions winner ten times over. Thanks, Mom. I love you.

Drive safe. Play nice. Think peace.

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It’s Lesley Gore’s birthday and she’ll cry if she wants to. Not expecting the tears to flow when she celebrates 64 candles on her nostalgic rock ‘n’ roll cake with a radio interview on Little Steven’s Underground Garage ( check local listings) Sunday. I always thought Gore–who packed in her teen pop star career at its height to study at Sarah Lawrence in the mid-1960’s (decades later, I’d follow her lead; but in my case the pop stardom was legendary only in my own mind)– never quite got her full pop culture props.

Some have dismissed Gore’s contribution, shelving it with or often under the popular girl groups of the day. The Crystals, The Ronettes, even the Chiffons and Shangri-las certainly deserve their due. As the muses and conduits for Phil Spector’s teenage operas and Brill Building melodramas their songs are indelibly etched in the national pop music lexicon. But Gore’s repertoire includes a pre-feminist defiance that is only daring in retrospect.

“You Don’t Own Me” is a liberating anthem that preceded Helen Reddy’s kitschy “I am Woman” by some eight years. And it wears better. “Judy’s Turn to Cry” plays fast and loose with romantic karma. Heck, even her signature “It’s My Party,” is strident. She may cry. But only is she wants to.

While she never quite matched her early teen stardom, Gore hasn’t exactly been resting on any adolescent laurels. She’s written for movies including “Fame”– which garnered an Oscar nomination– and the beautiful “Grace of My Heart.” In recent years, she’s matured into a popular cabaret fixture , wrapping her languid voice, now filled with middle-aged longing into the great American songbook.

Happy Birthday, Lesley. Celebrate. But only if you want to.

Drive safe. Play nice. Think peace.

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