In the days before radio chose sides and forced us to pick, it was not uncommon to hear Rock, Beach, Jazz, Pop, Country, R&B, Folk...and any number of sub-genres on the same station. It was an explosive time of sensational sound as we emerged from the Big Band and Crooner era. And, we loved it all.
And, we even loved instrumentals (when was the last time you heard one of those on anything but a Classical or Jazz station?).
Hugh Masekela burst upon the American music scene in 1968 with the ultimate summer song, "Grazin' in the Grass." While my Memorial Day Weekend playlist often changes...that song is a constant. It has always, for me, been the aural proclamation that summer had begun. This year, it will be sad to know that he has departed terra firma...but the song will stay in heavy summer rotation forever.
But, his considerable catalogue beyond the hit for which he was known in America was sensational for its diversity as well as political advocacy against apartheid and injustice. OkayAfrica compiled this video list of their favorite songs from this incredible talent. I'll let you go down the rabbit hole on your own time.
On this Music Friday, we go with the hit: Grazin' in the Grass.
More cowbell!
More cowbell, indeed! An inspired choice.
Posted by: Lee T | January 26, 2018 at 08:48