December 28, 2009

Last blog of the year (I hope).
This week has a couple of different things.

First off, have you ever heard of a man named George McCurn?
Mister McCurn was considered the finest bass singer in gospel music.
Among the people believing this; Sam Cooke. (tough to argue)
After years of singing gospel with The Kings Of Harmony,
The Fairfield Four, The Pilgrin Travelers and a tour
with The Ink Spots
McCurn finally recorded as a solo artist in 1963.
His first, and to my knowledge, only single
broke into the Billboard Hot 100 but success was sort lived.
Long before Don Williams made "I'm Just A Country Boy"
George McCurn cut a better version. You have to hear the man's range.

I also have a 1964 cut by The Drew-Vels, a bit of Beach Music and even a Country Rock request. As always, there's enough soul to keep you tappin' and rockin'.

Have a safe New Years, Eve and I'll be back next year!

December 21, 2009

On this last blog, before Christmas, I wish everyone a safe and happy holiday season as well as heartfelt hope for a healthy and prosperous 2010.
May it be better, for all of us, than 2009 was.

I like the show for this week. There are two weeks worth of birthday guests, quite a few "new" tunes and even a few surprises. I've had fun putting the show together and I hope y'all enjoy the result.

There are a few doubles. The Tempts show up with Eddie's birthday (never a bad thing), Herb Johnson and The Impacts get a double spin with Bobby Eli on guitar. Herb was Bobby's first "pro" gig and led to his introduction to Kenny Gamble. That started a whole lot of good things for the music business and Bobby.

Anytime an artist can get 3 Number 1's, on any chart, off a single album it's a terrific achievement. To do it off the debut CD says a great deal about the artist.
Rhonda McDaniel accomplished this with "Rhonda McDaniel". Falling, Why Am I Crying and Left With A Broken Heart all made it to the top spot. FNST will be playing "Falling" this week.

Our promotional/advertising director, Ginger, tracked down a "new" Billy Scott tune and Daddy C turned me onto a group called "Smokin' With Superman". I have no clue what the name means but the bass player is unreal!

I'd also like to thank "Pocketful O' Soul" for the drop-ins. It's great having the artists we play on FNST actually do plugs for the station. Shades, Don thank you.

Take care of yourselves and each other.

PD

December 14 2009

I'm sorry but there isn't a new show for this week.

Somehow I've encountered another problem on my production
computer. The good news; this time I had all the music backed up.
The bad news; It's going to take a complete rebuild of the software
and that takes a bit of time.

While the Techie Gnome works his magic, I will get started on next weeks' show on the mini 10........this should be interesting.

I'll be back next Monday with bunches of new songs for the playlist, the weakly cereal, etc.

Have a safe week

PD

December 8

This is kinda cool. In the past week FNST radio has had listeners in Brazil, Bahrain, Calumet County California, Ontario Canada, France, Tobago and North Carolina. That's a pretty diverse audience.
Soul Music is it's own universal language:-)

December 7, 2009

Let me see, here.

First off, a belated Happy Birthday to Terry Crousore, guitar player for The Magnificent Men. It was the 5th of December and I blew it.

I have some "new" music this week from
Class Act Salutes The Magnificent Men off the concert DVD,
The Bamboos with Kylie Auldist, The Dynamites,
Craig Woolard's new single and even a song by The Impressions you may not have heard. There's also a tune by Pocketful O' Soul, a group from Central Pennsylvania.

Of course there's the "weakly cereal", birthday guests and usual suspects.

All in all, it's a pretty enjoyable show.

Oh, one more thing.........Christmas shopping:
*Drywall *Insulation *Plumbing Schtuff *Wiring and Outlets *Single Malt Scotch
aaaaaaand *Winning Lottery Ticket LOL

See how easy I am to buy for?

November 30 + The Annual Concert

Welcome to the last show of November and a "review".

FNST is into it's fourth year! Unreal. The neat thing is, it keeps growing.
We'll keep adding new tunes, doing "in-depth" shows spotlighting various
talent and "diggin' deep" for songs.


Saturday, November 28th, we were in Harrisburg for the annual

"Class Act featuring Rita Salute to The Magnificent Men"

Once again, it was a good show and really unique.
Since last year Class Act has had four personnel changes.
This has resulted in some surprising changes in the music and it works!
It was a terrific show all the way around.

With Dave Bupp's retirement, there were still four of the seven "Mag Men" on stage.
Bob Angelucci (drums), Jim Seville (bass) and Tom Pane (sax & second tenor) play with Class Act and Buddy King (former first tenor) was a special guest.
Buddy's closing remarks, mentioning Bill Richter (organ), Terry Crosure (guitar), and the late Tom Hoover (the original keyboard player for The Mag Men) were especially welcomed.

Closing the show with "Peace of Mind" was just neat.
When you have almost an entire audience standing, singing the chorus with the group, somehow time slips away.

Now, about Rita Angelucci...........there simply are no words to describe the lady's voice. She may well be the best kept secret in soul music.
I've had the opportunity to hear so many talented singers. Everyone from Aretha Franklin and Gladys Knight to Dionne Warwick and Patti Labelle. Rita is right up there. If you can drive, fly, hitch hike, whatever, to get a chance to listen to Class Act I urge you to do it. You will not be disappointed.

There were a couple of special guests in the audience.
Bob's brother, Andy Angelucci, is a tremendous trumpet player. FNST plays a couple of his tunes. Also, Bobby Eli. If the name Bobby Eli doesn't ring a bell you're not paying attention to the writing credits on your 45's.
Check out "Love Won't Let Me Wait" by Major Harris and "Sideshow" by Blue Magic.
Then listen to the guitar work on anything MFSB recorded. Uh huh, that's Bobby Eli.
There'll be more on this very talented man in later shows.

Now, I've rambled, enough. Have a great week and please remember to order your DVD of the 2007 concert.

PD

Happy Thanksgiving & More

To our listeners in the U.S. (and that's most of you), I'd like to wish everybody a safe and happy holiday weekend. May your time spent with family & friends be peaceful.
If you're going to be traveling, be safe and watch out for the other guy.

There's a new DVD out that I highly recommend.

Class Act Salutes The Magnificent Men

This was filmed in 2007 at the annual Thanksgiving concert in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania.
It's a good tape, equal to the oldies shows you watch on PBS and better in one respect.
This is live! There were no starts, stops, retakes etc. The DVD is exactly like it was.

You get to see all seven of The Magnificent Men, on stage and performing, together for the first time since 1969.

The bonus to this is Class Act featuring Rita: The band is tight and Rita is superb, as always.

Buying the DVD will help finance the documentary that tells the story of The Mag Men. Dave Zang has spent the past 7 years doing interviews, collecting video and pictures and spending lots of his own money to get this story told.

To order your copy of:

Class Act Salutes The Magnificent Men

Send $20.00 Check or Money Order* to:

Dave Zang
5624 Mattfeldt Avenue
Baltimore, Maryland 21209

*overseas shipping extra

November 23 2009

It's almost time for the holiday weekend. The Techie Gnome will be heading to Virginia, I'll be going to Pennsylvania and the station is going to be on autopilot. Keep your fingers crossed.

Tonight's show has some neat stuff in it. New stuff by Little Anthony (the man just keeps going like the Energizer Bunny), a couple of Australia's great musical talents; The Bamboos and Kylie Auldist (wait until you hear them, fantastic!), a neat cover by Full Circle and a piece of Beach Music by Bobby Wayne.

Speaking of Beach Music, we also have two of the Carolina Beach Music Awards winners.
Rhonda McDaniel - Female Entertainer of The Year (for the second year in a row)
Paul Craver - Solo Album/Cd of The Year

Oh, one other thing (thang?). Be sure to listen for the song by Johnny Maestro & The Crests.
He put more soul into this cut than he did in all the other stuff, put together.

Have a good week and a Happy Thanksgiving to all of FNST's United States based fans.

PD

November 16 & 18 2009

November 16:

A normal Monday show. A mix of favorites and some new tunes.
Just a bit of R&B 101 and birthdays.
There is the last single on Capital by The Magnificent Men.
I thank the folks at recordsbymail.com for getting it to me so quickly. Because Capital pressed so few, these are getting tough to find.
There's also a tune by Scotty Todd and I think you'll enjoy his voice.
I added another Ortheia Barnes cut and a song by The Festivals........interesting.



November 18.......The LAST Request Night:

This is the last request show FNST will be doing.
Honestly, it's taking more time than I have to dedicate to it.
Instead, beginning in December, FNST will incorporate the requests into the weekly Monday show.
It will also be quicker for you. No more waiting an entire month to hear your favorite song.

That's 'bout it. I hope you made plans for November 28th in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania.
Class Act featuring Rita in concert at The Whitaker Center.
See you there!

PD

Trials and Tribulations

It has to be every computer users worst nightmare.
You're in the middle of something (in this case leveling music) and the "pooter" decides it's time to die.

The good news: I managed to save most of the music.
The bad news: I lost all the stations "drop-ins", all my photos, FNST Radio's birthday calender,
the mp3 cd's I'd purchased at Amazon and Rhapsody and a lot of reference material.

Hey, you didn't think I pulled all this stuff out of my head, did you?

Thanks to the Techie Gnome the system is back up with a new disc drive and almost all my "working" programs are re-installed. There will be a new show this Monday.

While I have the chance let me tell you about FNST Radio on facebook.

We have a little thing at facebook that is slowly growing. If you're a facebook member drop in and say hello.

Have a great week and enjoy this Monday's show.


PD

HAPPY BIRTHDAY FNST!!!!!!!!!

It’s Birthday Month!!!

Lock The Doors
Turn Down The Lights
&
Turn Up The Volume!

“Ain’t Nothin’ But A Party, Y’all!”

Come Join FNST Radio’s
Birthday Celebration

OOOPS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Hi there,… This is the Techie-Gnome here...
It looks like we had a problem with Wednesday Night’s request show… sorry about that Mister Program Director.
Due to an overwhelming demand, from Ginger, the Wednesday Night Request Show will be repeated on October 23rd at the normally scheduled times….

Oct. 19, 21, 26 & Nov. 2, 2009

V A C A T I O N

I'm on the Outer Banks, enjoying a bit warmer weather and, hopefully, sunshine.
We've had a pretty good year at FNST Radio. The listener base continues to grow,
even the blog gets read more every week. Now, it's time for me to re-charge my batteries and get ready for our 4th full year of providing great music.

October 19th and 26th and November 2nd are the normal Monday shows. It's a mix of "new" music, old favorites, the "weakly cereal" and birthdays.

October 21st is the Wednesday Request show featuring tunes you, the listener, have commented on and/or asked to hear more of. If this show continues or simply gets rolled into Mondays is a decision I'll be debating while I soak up sun and scotch. The mail box hasn't been exactly full, lately.

On November 9th I'll be back with a special Monday show. It's a birthday party for FNST! Who knows, maybe I can even con the Techie Gnome into coming along. It's a chance to look back at where we've come from and maybe figure out where we're going. The only thing that will never change is the music. It's got to have soul!

Have a great couple of weeks, enjoy the music and spread the word.

PD

October 12, 2009

Hey there. There's some neat stuff on this weeks' show.

First, today (October 12) is Melvin Franklin's birthday.
So, we get to hear a couple of lead vocals by the greatest bass singer I ever heard.

We're 12 days away from the Class of 60 Somethin' Fall Party in York Pennsylvania
and that means I get to play Class Act featuring Rita, The Magnificent Men and Daddy C.

The Carolina Beach Music Awards are coming up, next month, so there's a bit of the Carolina Gang and then there's our "aged in soul" regular stuff.

All in all it's a busy show and I hope you enjoy it.

(the best part is: I only do about 8 bits and they're short)

October 5, 2009

Not a lot of new stuff, this week. Mostly, it's two hours of soul with a bit of the beach thrown into the mix. I hope y'all enjoy it.

The Carolina Beach Music Award Nominees 2009

The nominations just came out (Sept. 28th) and there are a few of FNST Radio's favorite artists on the list.

Rhonda McDaniel:
Female Vocalist
Song of the Year: Fallin'
Entertainer Smoothie:
Compliation Album of the Year: Is My Mind Playin' Tricks On Me
Producer of the Year: Keith Houston for "We're Tight" Rhonda and Angel Rissoff
Engineer of the Year: Keith Houston for "We're Tight" Rhonda and Angel Rissoff
Collaboration or Duo: "We're Tight" Rhonda McDaniel/Angel Rissoff
Instrumentalist: Rhonda McDaniel w/Brasstyme and as a solo artist
Syndicated Radio Blues Album of the Year: Rhonda McDaniel

Craig Woolard:
Male Vocalist:
Group Album of the Year: "Come Get To This"
Entertainer Smoothie:
Producer of The Year: "Come Get To This"

Angel Rissoff:
Solo Album of the Year Internet Radio: "Nu-Soul Stew"
Syndicated Radio Blues Album: "Nu-Soul Stew"
Producer of the Year: Keith Houston for "We're Tight" RhondaMcDaniel and Angel
Engineer of the Year: Keith Houston for "We're Tight" Rhonda McDaniel and Angel
Collaboration or Duo: "We're Tight" Rhonda McDaniel and Angel

I would also mention: Fantastic Shakers, Coastline, Chairmen of the Board, Band of Oz and Raul Mallo. FNST Radio hasn't played their new stuff (there's only so much money for music) but we do play all of the artists.

CONGRATULATIONS TO EVERYBODY

September 28, 2009

The last Monday of the 9th month. Where has the year gone?
It's a nice show, this week. Some interesting birthdays and great tunes.

I'm still purging some tunes from the master playlist.
The Techie Gnome is doing the hard part, digging through the hard drive putting stuff to sleep. It's getting there and we have far fewer "groove killers".

A thank you and happy birthday to Ike Bowers.
He helped with this weeks show by giving me 5 of his favorite songs.
A couple had me searching but I got all of them!
For those of you who don't know, Ike's a former member of The DelChords and a member of Class of 60 Somethin'.
The tunes he picked took me back a lot of years and brought back some great memories.
I hope they do the same for you.

I'm getting ready for vacation in three weeks..........I need my ocean fix.

Have a great week.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY IKE! (October 2)

September 21, 2009

"No one should die because they cannot afford health care, and no one should go broke because they get sick."

I don't normally let my personal feelings or politics enter this blog. I don't think most of the readers come here to listen to me rant and rave, they simply want to know what's coming on this weeks' show. That being said, the opening line speaks volumes on what is a serious problem in the United States of America.

For all the arguments about "we can't afford this", let me remind you that we spent 12 Billion dollars a month on an unjustified war in Iraq. Think about that. We can go into debt to kill but we can't spend money to improve life in our own country?

If one of your congressmen or senators are helping block the health care and health insurance reform we need, I ask you to write them. Object to their actions and to the stranglehold the health insurance companies have on this country.

As Wilford Brimley said about something else; "It's the right thing to do."

Enjoy this weeks' show. I had fun making it :-)

PD

September 14, 2009

Let me see, here. Where to begin?
This week I have new music and new artists for FNST Radio.

The Ambassadors, from Lancaster Pennsylvania, join us.
So does a man named Mayer Hawthorne, thanks to "the Professor" tuning me onto the guy.
Mr. Hawthorne is a unique blend. A little Motown, a little Philly and it all seems to work for him.

The Ovations pay a visit and there's a new, old, tune by the Impressions. Our birthday guests return, after a few weeks sabbatical and, of course, The Magnificent Men, Class of 60 Somethin' along with the "Carolinas Gang" join the party.

There's no "Request Night" this month. Things have been hectic and not just for me. The e-mail is looking pretty empty as well. Hopefully, things pick up for October.

The "Techie Gnome" and I have purged the playlist, one more time, and right now the station has almost 6 full days of non-repeat music on the random playlist. For our long term listeners, I'm sure you remember when we were thrilled to get 12 hours. We're tweaking things a bit, still not sure where it's headed but I look forward to beginning our third full year of bringing you the finest music there is. (imagine........three years, wow!)

Have a great week and thank you for stopping by.

PD

September 7, 2009

In the U.S. this is Labor Day weekend. The time to celebrate the American worker (assuming you can find the ones still employed). It, also, marks the end of "summer". This past few days the weather has already started to cool in the northern part of the country.

This week we're taking at look at a group from Memphis; The Ovations. These guys were super and the lead singer sounds so much like Sam Cooke it's almost scary.

Of course, we'll visit the Carolinas with Angel Rissoff, CWB, The Embers, Rhonda McDaniel, etc. and go back "home" with Class of 60 Somethin', The Magnificent Men, Class Act featuring Rita and Custer's Last Band.

There are some "new" songs, some old favorites and even a surpise :-)

Have a safe weekend and enjoy the last of Summer 2009.

PD

August 31, 2009

In my world this is the end of summer. All too soon the weather will turn colder and we'll be back to six months of yuck. Did I mention I hate snow?

This week's show has some neat stuff. The Ovations, Garnet Mimms & The Enchanters, Billy Butler & The Enchanters (no, they're not the same groups), Custer's Last Band, Larry Saunders, The Trammps and of course, my usual favorite groups.

There are two special people you should check out, if you haven't already.

Angel Rissoff is a very talented "old school" R&B'er. He's worked with Kenny Vance for years but he has a CD on the KHP label, called "Nu Soul Stew". The production is great and the songs cook. You can check it out here: www.angelmusic.com

Rhonda McDaniel. Yes, I know I've mentioned her before but the lady is somethin' else. The more I play her self titled CD, the more enjoy it. She's also on KHP and the production quality is just as fantastic. Keith has one hell of a studio. Check Rhonda's site at: http://www.rhondamcdaniel.com

I'd like to thank Dave Bupp, Daddy C and Great Britian's "Soul Hawk" for their emails this week. As always, I managed to learn even more from all three of them.

Enjoy the show, even if I do talk too damn much and have a great week.

PD

August 24, 2009

Post Script: I'd written this before we learned of Johnny Carter's passing.
As one of the original (and last surviving) members of The Flamingos and a member of The Dells since 1959, Mr. Carter is one of the elite few to be inducted into the Rock-N-Roll Hall of Fame, twice. His beautiful song writing is represented in The Flamingos' "Golden Teardrops". FNST extends our sympathy to the family and The Mighty Dells. Johnny Carter left us more than memories, he left us music to enjoy for many more generations.


It's an interesting show this week. I have some music that had to be "re-leveled"
and a few tunes that I thought were in rotation only to find out they weren't even in the playlist.
(yes, I know it's hell to get old)

There's new music by Checkmates Ltd., Rhonda McDaniel, The Packers, The Enchanters,and Dennis Coffey amongest others.

Dennis Coffey doesn't ring a bell? He should. As a member of "The Funk Brothers" he's responsible for the great guitar work on Edwin Starr's "S.O.S.", The Isley's "It's Your Thing" and introduced the wah-wah pedal to Motown on "Cloud Nine". Pretty cool, huh?

I have to admit I'm a bit late becoming a fan of Rhonda McDaniel. This lady has a terrific voice!
You can check her out on myspace.com; it's Beach Music at it's best.

Tonight, there's a three song set from Class Of 60 Somethin'. A great cover of The Spinners first hit, "I'll Always Love You" featuring Dave Bupp on lead: Rita Angelucci rips "Mixed Up Shook Up Girl" and Thom Colson (Daddy C) does a better version of "Human" than Tommy Hunt.

BTW, you can see all three tunes over on youtube. Search "DaddyClb" and they'll pop up.

That's about all I have to offer, for this week. Enjoy the show and keep you "pooter" tuned to FNST Radio.



PD

Les Paul (June 9, 1915 – August 13, 2009)

The father of the electric guitar, inventor of sound on sound multi-track recording and a true master of his instrument.

94 years old and still gigging until quite recently. That's one heck of a run.

Everyone, musician and music fan alike, owes the man a debt of gratitude.

Vaya Con Dios..................

August 17 & 19 2009 Upcoming Shows

Hey, guess what? It's that time of the month, again. Wednesday, the 19th, is Request Night.
Now, I've heard from some people but I could sure use a few more tunes. You have until Friday, August 14th, to email requests and I'll do my best to find them.

Monday's show is kinda cool. For the second week I have an exclusive Thom Colson (Daddy C)
song. Well, it's exclusive until he posts on YouTube. New tunes by The Voice Masters, Eddie Holman, Nona Hendryx (alone and with The Bluebells), The Matadors and a couple of other people. Of course our "old friends" will be here as well. The Magnificent Men, The Embers, Craig Woolard, Class Act featuring Rita..........you know the drill :-)

Welcome to some new listeners in Kansas, New Jersey, Demark and North Carolina. A special welcome back to PJ, in Chicago. Tell me you missed us ;-)

I hope everyone is enjoying these last weeks of summer, in the northern hemisphere. For our listeners in Oz and New Zealand; spring is on it's way.

Have a great week, everybody.

PD

August 10, 2009

It's amazing what one can see, just driving down a highway.
In this case, Military Highway in Chesapeake, Virginia.

William Deal and Ammon Tharp formed "The Rhondels" in 1965. Playing the clubs and school dances in Virginia and North Carolina they honed their craft and when opportunity came, in 1969, they were able to take advantage of it.

The Rhondel's cover of a Maurice Williams tune took them national. "May I" done with a polka beat rose to #39 and led to four more songs on the national charts.

Sadly, William Deal passed away in 2003 but he did leave a legacy of Blue Eyed Soul and Beach Music.

Enjoy tonight's show. There's some good music.

August 3 2009 (The Sonny Sanders Show)

Okay, let's clear something up, right away. Tonight's show did not start out to be a one man show. Sonny's birthday is August 6, so naturally, he was going to be included in the "birthday guest" segment. Then.......I got to thinking.



Sonny arranged and in some cases, wrote songs that have become such an integral part of our lives. Songs that have been played for almost fifty years on the radio and used in countless commercials and movies. Think about Ghost Busters and the "walking" Statue of Liberty. What do you hear? That's right, Jackie Wilson and Sonny's arrangement of "Higher & Higher". See what I mean?



I only met the man twice. He isn't a friend but he had a huge impact on my life. Throughout The Magnificent Men's recording career, Sonny was the principal arranger on some of their best material. Because he helped "sell" the group, I stayed employed.........there's the 6 degrees of seperation thing.



I've touched on only a portion of the man's work. I tried to do it justice. He's one of the best at his craft and we should all strive to be as good in our chosen field.



Enjoy the show.



PD

CONGRATULATIONS GINGER!!!
You were the 1,00th click on this blog.

July 27, 2009

The last show for the month of July. Didn't I just say that about the month of June?


I have The Steelers, Delta Rhythm Section, Gladys Knight & The Pips, even David Sanborn & Sam Moore bringing on some of the new music, tonight. It should be a pretty neat show.

Y'know for something that started just as way to play a few of my favorite groups, this thing has sure grown. Not just in the total records, although that count is over 1,700 in rotation and climbing. It's grown as people continue to find us, all over the world. When I see an ISP for Geneva, Switzerland or Tokoyo, Japan and they stay with us for hours, on end, I figure we must be doing something right.


To every listener who has helped spread the word about our little corner of the universe, the Techie Gnome and I say, "Thank You!". Whether you joined us from Facebook, myspace or someone suggested FNST Radio to you, we're glad you decided to listen in.


There's another request night on August 19th. Please let me hear from you. We need the communication to make those shows possible.


Next week, August 3rd is a very special show. The majority of the music involves one man,be sure to join us.


For now, let me ask just one question............

Do you like good music...........sweet soul music?



PD

July 20 2009

I have quite a bit of music for this week and not a lot of birthday guests. I'm not sure how it happened but I'm sure my charge cards will explain it, next month.

Have you ever felt like the days just keep slipping by? This is what my summer has been like.
We're in the process of purging a house full of stuff, cleaning-remodeling, etc. There just never seems to be an end to it. Between the house and getting music ready for FNST things just kind of blur.

I thank everyone who sent in requests for the July 15th show. We have another show coming up
on August 19th so think about your favorite songs and send me an e-mail.

PD

P.S. I said there were a lot of new tunes. The Techie Gnome just confirmed it. Out of the 49 seperate entries (that includes me talking) there are 29 songs that aren't in the current rotation or library. *yes, he's tired of doing intros and exits*

July 13 & 15 2009

I have two shows, this week. Monday's "normal" thing and Wednesday's Request Night.
I do love the once a month format for Wednesdays. It gives me a chance to find different music and actually "talk" with our listeners. Sometimes the requests are a bit off the wall but that's okay.

Monday night is loaded with "new" songs for the rotation. How about new stuff by The Cruisers, Boyd McCoy, The Diplomats, Billy Butler, The Tempests and more? Of course there are some of our old friends as well.

Wednesday night I have some music that is new to me and a few things I'd forgotten.

Al and Michael, thank you for exposing me to The Steelers and The Illusions..........I'm not sure the checkbook agrees but it's cool:-)

Shirley, I'm glad you reminded me about the Five Heartbeats. What a great soundtrack! The movie was pretty good, too.

Ginger, as always you got me hunting. The Cookies? That brings back some memories. All good ones.

Marjo, guess what? I found a couple for you as well. There's some soul in that Dutch girl.

Anyway, I hope y'all enjoy the shows. After all, it truly is "all about the music".

PD

July 6, 2009

I hope everyone has (had) a safe and fun holiday weekend. There are some listeners celebrating the 4th in Great Britain. as well. It seems they still think it was a good idea to get rid of us.

Some sad news, this past week. Fayette Pinkney of The Three Degrees died on June 27th.
A Philly girl, she had a terrific voice. Fayette did a lot of back-up work as well and she can be heard on a lot of the Gamble-Huff stuff from the 70's.

This week's show has Darrow Fletcher, Gene Chandler, Darrell Banks and Custer's Last Band among others. It was neat tracking down the music, as always. There's more on the way, I found a lot more cd's to buy. (Hey, MasterCard loves me)

I'd also like to thank Craig and the staff at recordsbymail.com for their tremendous job of searching out and supplying all of us with mint 45's and LP's. When I get done searching the "compilations" and "best of " things it's always a neat idea to look at Craig's site and see if they have that "missing" single.

Have great week, everybody. Thank you for listening to FNST.

Oh, remember July 15th is "Request Night". Cut off for e-mails is July 11th, so you still have time to help put a show together.

PD

June 29 2009

<-----The late Paul Williams

June 25: Right after I posted this entry word came that Michael Jackson had died, in Los Angeles. In the days that follow you will undoubtedly learn more about this tortured man than you probably ever wanted to know. I'm going to leave that to the tabloids. Suffice to say, I admired the talent. Rest In Peace, Michael

I happen to like tonight's show. There's some good stuff and I get to play The Temptations. Paul Williams was born July 2nd so he's one of the birthday guests, this week. He was my second favorite lead singer (Eddie Kendricks being #1) of The Tempts. In fact, I prefer the earlier Tempts recordings before Berry Gordy hit on the "formula". I'd rather listen to Paul and Eddie than David Ruffin.

Tonight, I'm also looking at a group from Harrisburg, The Soulville All-Stars. Quite a talented group of young men and some of them are still playing, today. (Hi Rich and Kirk)

Don't forget, there's a "Request Night" on July 15th, please get your e-mails to me as soon as you can. Some of these songs take some real "hunting".

If you get a chance, pop over to youtube com and check out www.youtube.com/user/DaddyClb

It's Thom Colson's thing featuring Custer's Last Band members of Class Of 60 Somethin'.

Have a great week, everybody.

PD

June 22 2009

Tonight's show features the music of Eddie Floyd and Doc Pomus and there are other great songs and musicians as well. The group, at the left, is Jon Bartel and The Soul Masters from Pittsburgh Pennsylvania.

I found the pix while googling. It's a bit later in their career as you can tell by the 70's haircuts.

Back in the mid/late 60's this group played predominately black clubs all across the northeast. They packed the house, by the way. I first saw them at Lawson's in Harrisburg. Whenever they were in town I made it a point to stop in and just listen. Jon could kick hell out of a B3 and Larry O'Brian was the first person I ever heard sing the notes as he was playing them. I know, big deal, but this was before anyone heard of George Benson.

As musical tastes changed in the 70's so did the group. They tried to move into the "fusion" sound of BS&T etc. but I always felt they were at their best playing jazz and soul. Great memories of a terrific band.

Have a great week and remember, July 15th is our request night. Send those e-mails and I'll do my best.

Thank you for joining us.

PD

June 15, 2009 (A.K.A. Why Beach Music?)

As I write this it's actually June 3. It's kind of nice being able to actually get ahead on these shows. It gives me more time to find "new" music.


Have you noticed an influx of "Beach Music" the past couple of weeks? There's a good reason for this. It's pretty darn good! I first, really, paid attention to this almost three years ago. The Techie Gnome and I were searching for a cut of "The Cheater" by Bob Kuban & The In Men. We found it on a beach music compilation that featured The Embers. Guess what? "I Love Beach Music" came on and the two of us looked at each other and turned it up! Kinda hooked me.


At first it was just The Embers and then CWB, Craig Woolard's band but as I kept digging, I found out more and more about the groups who played this scene. The Catalinas, The Winstons, Wille Tee, The Fantastic Shakers, the late Bill Pinkney and O.C. Smith, to name a few. Let me tell you, these people are pros.



The music they play fits in with the "soul" FNST plays. This is understandable when you realize how many of the great R&B acts these groups backed. Soul music will always come out on top. It's a sound that stays with you.



A few weeks ago I "found" another group. Legends Of The Beach. Featuring Jackie Gore, one of the founders of The Embers, and some very talented musicians they continue the "soul" of the beach. My thanks to Gerald Davis, of LOB, for the great e-mail and to Ripete Records for shipping the CD so quickly. I hope y'all are enjoying the sound as much as I am.


Tonight we feature Eddie Levert of The O'Jays, Lionel Richie (Lionel Richguy, lol) and the former lead singer of The Flamingos, Tommy Hunt. There's also music by Carolina Connection,

The Showmen and a super cut by Coastline.






PD

June 8, 2009

I'm writing this inbetween fighting with a recalcitrant sound card and allergies. I'm not sure which is irritating more, the sound leveling taking three times as long or the havoc caused to my voice.

Today's show has been interesting to assemble. My thanks go out to a whole lot of people all over the world. As I surfed through "youtube" I kept finding songs I'd forgotten. Some of them I already had, stuck way back in the basement, others I had to buy on the net. (this cd collection keeps growing)

There are some neat tunes, this week. Some artists brand new to FNST Radio, others more like old friends. There's some great R&B, some "Beach Music" even Paul McCartney.

Speaking of Sir Paul, do you remember where you were the first time you heard "Yesterday"?

I know I do. Chef's restaurant in Montour Falls, NY. It came on the radio just as we were parking. My first "great love" had ended and that song seemed to say everything.

Have a good week and remember: Life is what happened while you were planning all the good stuff.

Take care of yourselves and each other.

PD

June 1 2009

This is my favorite week to do shows. It has noting to do with warm weather, thoughts of summertime, the beach, car shows or vacation. It has to do with birthdays. Specifically, three
birthdays.

Curtis Mayfield was one of the most talented men I ever met, let alone heard perform. It seemed his mind never stopped. Being around him was like being near a million watt generator.

He wrote some of my favorite songs, not just for The Impressions but it seemed like 3/4 of the Chicago music industry. More often, than not, I'd hear a song, like it, look at the label and Curtis' name was there.

Levi Stubbs' voice could rock out on up tempo stuff and then leave you breathless on a ballad.
He was, also, one hell of a man. There was never a hint of "star" nonsense and the way he stepped up to care for his brother, Joe Stubbs, after a tragic accident is testament to the man's innate decency.

The third birthday, this week, is Bob Angelucci of The Magnificent Men. Nobody works harder or drives a group better than "Puff". He's the force behind two of the best groups I've ever heard, The Mag Men and Class Act featuring Rita. He also plays drums on most of songs onthe Class of 60 Somethin' CD's. I've known the man for over 45 years and still like him, in spite of the bad puns.

Anyway, there's what this week's show is all about with a few other songs thrown in for good measure. I hope you enjoy it.



PD

May 25, 2009 OOPS!

For some reason the "pooter" did not recognize the 3:00pm show for this afternoon.

Thanks to an email from Ginger, the Techie Gnome was able to correct the system and it will play the show tonight at 8:00pm and 10:00pm Eastern Daylight Time.

This doesn't help the listeners in Europe were it'll be long after midnight, so I have an offer for you. If you really want to hear the show, send me an e-mail with your name and address and I will send you a two (2) CD copy of the program.

Sorry about this, really I am.

PD

May 25, 2009

Nice looking map, isn't it? Every one of those "pins" is someone who has listened to FNST Radio.

In most cases, multiple times. I think it's great.

Tonight's show is a mix of my personal favorites and some "new" music. You're going to hear: Donny Gerrard, Gladys Knight, Craig Woolard, Legends Of The Beach, The DelChords, Con Funk Shun, Ruby & The Romantics and Edwin Starr, just to name a few.

Two of our listeners are actually together, tonight, in Holland. Sue and Marjo, it's always a pleasure seeing your ISP's on the log. I'm glad you enjoy the music. Marjo, try and keep Sue out of trouble while she's there:-)

I hope everyone in the U.S. had a safe Memorial Day weekend. Now summer begins, for real!

Let's Party!!!!!

Weds. May 20th

I didn't do a monthly request show for today. It was a combination of too few requests and lack of time to do anopther show. The house is rapidly taking anytime I will allow x 4.

Anyway, third Wednesday in June we'll do another show. Please send in your tunes and I'll try to find them and get them on the air.


PD

May 18th 2009

This week's Monday show has some interesting information in it.

Do you know who the Marvelows were? How about The Marvellos?

Do you know why Atlantic Records used to be referred to as "The House That Ruth Built"?

Any idea of how Cindy Birdsong replaced Florence Ballard in The Supremes?

Well, if you really want to know these things plus hear some great music, you're just going to have to listen to this week's show.

What? You thought I was going to give away all that info here?

P.S. I know we're getting unintended "douple plays" on some artists. It's my fault. If I don't type the artists exactly the same, everytime, the program doesn't know any better. If you hear it happen, please write to us so I can try and correct the errors.

IMPRESSIONS May 8, 2009

No, not The Impressions........one of my favorite groups by the way.

Back in early November 2008 I purchased an advertising campaign on Google. Not a lot of money, just featuring a few keywords. Soul Music, The Magnificent Men, Beach Music, Class Act featuring Rita, Free Internet Radio..............

Anyway, in the past 6 months the advertisement for FNST Radio has been seen by more than 37,000 (yes, I said 37,000) people. To me, this truly amazing. From those 37,000 views we've picked up a few listeners (not as many as I'd like but then again there'll never be that many). I've received e-mails from some, others show up repeatedly on my ISP stat counter. To everyone who has joined our little outpost of "finest" music, I thank you. From the Carribean to Finland, from Greece to Australia / New Zealand and of course from Vancouver, British Columbia to Holland and all over the Untied States, the Techie Gnome and I are thrilled you've spent time with us.

I hope we can keep doing this for many more years.

PD

Fear and Loathing - Resolved

All programs and processes have been restored and backed up...
Sorry for the repeat of Thursday's show .. but I ran out of time...
All station processes and programs will be back on schedule come Sunday

da TechieGnome

ps.. gotta love outboard usb drives!

Fear & Loathing

Well folks, the TechieGnome did it this time... it would appear that FNST has experienced a massive meltdown on our machine that we use for generating the shows and playlists is a vegetable.... need I say it... I neglected to backp all of the data and programs...

I'm rebuilding but this will take a while... the new hardware is on site but there will be no new thursday shows for a while... please be patient...

mea culpa

da Techie Gnome

May 4th and 11th

Yes, I know it's only Tuesday April, 28th but tomorrow morning I start my wandering for almost 2 weeks. I'll be connecting to the internet sporadically, at best.

The May 4th show is comprised of Number 1 songs in R&B from 1958 through about 1976.
It's not something we've ever done on FNST Radio. RJ and I started this station to play the music that normal radio didn't offer. That said, it actually was kind of fun putting the show together. I hope y'all enjoy it.

May 11th is back to more of our normal type Monday shows. The Craig Woolard Band, Class Act featuring Rita, Class Of 60 Somethin', and a few surprises. There may even be some bad puns.

Anyway, I hope everyone has a safe 2 weeks.

Take care of yourselves and each other. Remember, we're all we have :-)

PD

We're Sorry, Honest

1:35pm EDT.......FNST Radio is back up!


At about 9:50am this morning. Sunday, we lost the internet connection for the station.

It's one of those things that really is beyond our control. It's not our equipment, it's somewhere out there (pointing to the vastness of Roadrunner).

Hopefully, the company will be working toward a resolution and the station will be back on-line shortly.

I will let you know as soon as it's back. Meanwhile, anybody want to help rake the yard? ;-)

April 27, 2009

It's the last show before the Class of 60 Somethin' party. I'm excited to be going "home".

There's some great music for tonight. James Brown, The Delfonics, Tower Of Power, The Stylistics and a bunch more. The two hours seemed to just fly.

If you're in York be sure to stop me and say hello. I'll be the guy with the scotch in hand.

See Ya!

APRIL 20, 2009 & Ms. Susan Boyle

First of all, there's a good show on Monday night. Some new stuff, lots of memories, some information on The Mad Lads and The Volcanoes. Even a song by Bill Champlin.

Like the rest of the world I've become a fan of Susan Boyle. What a voice! The Techie Gnome even found a cut of her singing "Cry Me A River" with only one bad skip at the beginning.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jI2DxkrgpgQ
I could listen to her speak all day long. She reminds me of my grandparents and my cousins. I love that accent. Here's hoping someone records her without "spoiling" the lass.

Next week is the last show before "The Party" in York Pennsylvania. I'm gettin' excited. Good friends, a road trip and great music.........it doesn't get any better. (well, maybe, but this is a "G" rated blog)

Have a great week, everybody. Oh, we could use some mail;-)

Randy Cain 1945-2009

This one is a bit personal. A long time ago (1967) The Delfonics were part of a summer show at The Uptown Theater in Philadelphia. They were just local kids and considered "filler" on a bill that headlined The Magnificent Men and featured The Parliments and The Fantastic Four.

By the end of the week, the local kids had moved up the bill and were damn near stealing the show.

From the way they danced onto the stage, their oh so tight harmonies, and Randy's impact on the young ladies in the audience, they were a force.

I had the pleasure of watching them from the side of the stage and they impressed the hell out of me. More importantly, I enjoyed talking with them and having them around.

Randy was always my favorite because of his ready smile and laugh. The man was having fun, singing his heart out and soaking up the response from the crowd, every show all week long.

The following year they released a monster on the world and I was thrilled for them. It was great to see success come to young men who worked at their craft.

Randy died just two weeks short of his 64th birthday.

Thank you for the music and memories.

April 12th, 13th & 15th

AND.............We're back up and running. Thank You, Techie Gnome.

Happy Easter!!!

Monday's show features the usual suspects :-)

The Magnificent Men, Intruders, Craig Woolard, The Tempts, and a few others.
I think you'll enjoy the mix.

Wednesday night is our once a month request show. Marjo, Al, Ginger and Nekesha all helped with this months' project. Of course there are a lot of my favorite songs in the show, as well.

Coming up on the April 20th show, FNST looks at The Mad Lads, and The Volcanoes as well as the birthday artists, etc.

Have a great week, everybody.

PD

FNST Offline

Alas good listeners.. tis that time again... the station needs maintenance...
Therefore, we will be offline Sunday morning April 12th...

Not sure how long it is going to take or exactly when it will start.. depends on what time I get up doesn't it?

Thank you all for listening and for your continued support.

da Techie Gnome

April 6th Show

It's back to a "normal" Monday show.
(I love using the word "normal" in anything involving my life)

We have some interesting birthdays and a bunch of music.
It's kind of an eclectic mix. Billie Holiday to Bull City Syndicate.
Gene Chandler to Rickie Lee Jones, with some stops along the way.

Don't forget, April 15th is our once a month request night. I could use a few more e-mails.

As I write this, it's time to get ready for the weekend.

Be safe, everybody.

P.S. Welcome back Ginger. Nice to have you back on line with a healthy "pooter".

March 30, 2009

The "Other Detroit" Part Two is this weeks show. It's been a lot of fun and brought back a ton of memories, for me.

There are multiple cuts by The Fantastic Four, Roscoe Shelton, and a couple of others.
Edwin Starr, Emanuel Laskey and Sidney Barnes are also on the program.

It's a week for some terrific birthday guests. Marvin, Major Lance, Phillip Wynne of The Spinners and Dave Bupp of The Magnificent Men and Class Of 60 Somethin'.

Again, I have to thank Ginger Oldham and Dave Bupp for supplying so much of the music I've featured, these past two weeks. Thanks to them these songs are not "lost". They're being played, right here, on FNST Radio.

Next week, April 6th, it's back to a normal show (like anything is normal around here) with some bad jokes, birthdays and also a terrific horn group, Bull City Syndicate. I think you're going to enjoy them.

Take care of yourselves and each other

PD

Monday March 23, 2009

The show is done! It's almost entirely about the "Other Detroit-Part 1".

There are 37 songs in two hours. Most them are new to the playlist. There's also a lot of my talking about the artists but, hey, you have to have some bad along with the good.

My thanks to Dave Bupp and Ginger Oldham for the records, knowledge and memories. If it wasn't for them, I couldn't have put these two shows together.

Don't forget, April 15th is the next request night. Please get your e-mails in before Saturday, April 11.

Thank you to everyone listening and telling your friends about FNST Radio. The numbers are growing.

PD

March 16 and 18

Monday's "normal" show is finished and so is Wednesday's Request Night. There's a lot of music in both shows and I hope y'all enjoy them.

We have another special birthday this week. One of our listeners from "across the big pond".
Happy Birthday, Marjo. How does it feel to be 25?

Beginning on the March 23rd show, I'm going to be doing some musicology lessons. We're going to start looking at the "Other Detroit". The singers and groups who recorded outside the Motown Empire. Each week I'll let you in on some of the background information and play more than just one song by these, too often, overlooked artists.It should make for some interesting shows.

I hope you mark your calendars and join me.

March 9, 2009

It's a pretty smooth show for Monday night. War, Wilson Pickett, The Temps, Steve Mancha, The Embers, The Mag Men (of course), even Lulu and a couple of non-R&B artists all join in.

Special birthday greetings to Tom Pane. I admire his sax playing and have always enjoyed his distinctive second tenor voice with The Magnificent Men. It's great to have him playing with Class Act and Class of 60 Somethin'. I can't wait for May 2 at the York Fairgrounds.

To everyone joining us this past week (at least the ones I can see on Shoutcast) welcome to FNST. From California to British Columbia. From the West Indies to Holland, Switzerland and Finland, thank you for stopping by and spending part of your week with us. With all the choices available, it's nice to see so many people on the site.

The mailbox is kind of empty. It would be nice to hear from people.

Take care of yourselves and each other.

PD

March 2, 2009

I hope everybody enjoys the show. There's some great music with a bunch of memories for the "older" listeners. For the younger ones, dig the music and begin makin' memories.

I'd like to thank everyone who joined us in the month of February. I see a lot of listeners from St. Louis to Toronto, from the Islands to Portland Maine and all through Europe. It's just great to check the logs and know that people are enjoying the music we love.

A special birthday wish to a special lady in Virginia Beach. We're very proud of you :-)

Take care of yourselves, and each other.

PD

Recent Visitors Feb 22, 2009

Just a snapshot of February's visitors. Not all of them, but the ones that show up from this blog.
We're growing!

I hope you enjoy tomorrow's show (Feb. 23).

Remember, tell your friends about FNST Radio. They'll thank you for it. (or not LOL)

Monday Feb. 16, 2009

Ready for a great show? I hope so.
Lydia Pense, Tower Of Power, The Dells, Willie Mitchell, Irma Thomas, Edwin Starr and of course The Magnificent Men, Class Act featuring Rita, Class Of 60 Somethin' and a bunch more.
Two weeks of "birthday guests" so there lot's of music.

There’s sad news, this week. I don’t know how many listeners heard about the commuter plane crash in Buffalo on Thursday night. All the people on board and one person on the ground were killed. The plane was carrying two members of Chuck Mangione’s band, Gerry Niewood and Coleman Mallet.

Their names may not be familiar to you but you’ve heard Gerry on countless recordings: Simon & Garfunkel in Central Park, Sinead O’Connor’s first album, Chuck Mangione’s first three albums and of course, here, when we play Wilmer Alexander & The Dukes.
FNST extends our sympathies to the families and the greater Rochester New York jazz family for this loss.

Thank you to everyone who joined us on Facebook. We look forward to seeing even more people join.

PD

Feb. 9, 2009

Not a new show this week, a repeat for a very special man. Smokey Robinson.
Welcome to all the South American listeners who have found us this week.
Jamaica, Bremuda, St. Kitt and a bunch more. We're glad to have you with us.

Be good to yourselves............and each other

PD

February 2, 2009

Hey Y'all, wanna know what's on the show this week?

First of all, Feb. 2nd is Buddy King's birthday. Not only is he a talented singer and song writer, he's been a friend for almost 45 years. So, I get to play a few of his songs. (It is my show)

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, BUDDY!

We also have The Temptations, O'Jays, Embers, Coupe De Villes, Chaka Kahn, Donny Gerrard,
Johnny Maestro, Tommy Lepson, Class Of 60 Somethin', Precisions, The Unifics, King Curtis and Santa Fe & The Fat City Horns to name some of the guests on the show. (DEEP BREATH)

We'd like to thank everyone who stopped by this past month. There is a drop in mentioning some of the places we were heard. We don't see all of the ISP's but FNST is growing. Thank you for spreading the word.

TROUBLE FINDING US?

somehow our provider switched ISP's on us, again.

Go to the listen page on the main site

http://www.fnstradio.com/

then copy the new address on the bottom of the page.

paste it into your player and the great music is back.

thanks for your understanding

PD

The 500th Visitor

Congratulations to us (I guess) and to a person in Moss, Norway!

At 2:40am Eastern Standard Time you became the 5ooth person to visit this blog.
Thank you for stopping by and taking the time to listen to the station, also.

I hope you enjoyed the music and come visit, again.

PD

January 26, 2009

Well, it's done. The last Monday of the month is ready for prime time, sorta.

It's a lot of music, for two hours. Not too many birthday guests, but some new songs for the Techie Gnome to add to random rotation.

If you missed the show, these are some of the artists you didn't get to hear.
100 Proof (Aged In Soul): Billy Stewart: The Impressions: Coupe De Villes: Magnificent Men: The Radiants: Bobby "Blue" Bland: Jonny Lang: Mark Cassara: Craig Woolard: The Temptations: Los Lonely Boys: Al Green and Willie Hutch.

Next week's show is lookin' good. We have some great birthday guests and more "new" tunes.
I hope y'all can join me.

PD

Dr. King & President Obama

It's two special days. A national holiday to honor one of the giants of the 20th Century and the Inauguration of The United States first black President.

In just 55 years we've gone from the silliness of "colored" only drinking fountains and the travesty of "separate but equal", to a nation that may, finally, be ready to fulfil it's destiny.

There have been some detours and rough road, along the way, but this country seems alive with enthusiasim. It's a refreshing change.

Have a great week, everybody

January 12, 2009

This week's show has already aired, for the first time, as I write this.

It's on at 3:00pm Eastern Standard Time so it shows up in Great Britain at 8:00pm. FNST repeats this show, as well as the "Techie Gnome's" Thursday show, at 8:00pm and 11:00pm Eastern Standard Time. This allows the western part of the United States and Canada to listen in their prime time. If you're in Western Europe (and we're seeing a lot of those ISP's)
you can adjust accordingly.

Next week, January 19th, is a national holiday in the U.S. honoring Dr. King. We'll be doing our part so be sure to stop by. I think you'll enjoy the show.

Take care of yourselves and each other.

PD

Do You Want to Know A Secret?

Actually, it's more of a two part request/information.

We know we have more listeners that our logs are showing. Shoutcast and even the stat counter on this blog are not accurate.

If your system is set up so you can surf without being seen, the counters do not pick you up when you listen to the station. Sooooooooooo, do us a favor, please. When you visit FNST, come in through the "Listen" page of the site. It makes the Techie Gnome, and me for that matter, happy to actually see listeners. We don't really care where you're from, just that you're actually here, listening.

By the way, did you know that it's easy to listen to FNST Radio and continue to do other things on your computer? All you need to do is minimize the Winamp or Windows Media Player and keep on trucking. The music continues as you do other things, honest.

Any questions? Drop us an e-mail and we'll try to help. (he's called "Techie Gnome" for a good reason)

Thank you.