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