THE FOLLOWING IS AN ENCORE BLOG-updated and expanded:
The very first atomic bomb was tested on this day in 1945 in Alamogordo, New Mexico.
The face of warfare changed forever—and few who witnessed that first explosion with a mixture of awe and dread would believe that in the 65 years since, only TWO nuclear bombs have been deployed—both within weeks of that first test explosion.
Depending on your perspective, this development of nuclear power for warfare is either the heinous start down a slippery slope that we have yet to realize the full effects of (thank God)---or it was a necessary evil.
In hindsight of what was called The Manhattan Project, it is easy to look back and criticize the development of-and use of nuclear weapons. However, back then, facing Hitler and Hirohito and knowing that they too were attempting to develop the very same weapon might make you think twice.
At a time when Iran is developing such weaponry- , the United States is declaring that Iran cannot possess such destructive capability. Some might argue that it is highly arrogant for the only country to actually USE the atomic bomb against people to sit in judgment of other countries, who (at least on the surface) assert its development being tied to their sovereign rights to self defense.
Perhaps THAT argument will never find universal agreement. The series of events during World War II, however, are more cut and dried.
The following program is an absolutely FASCINATING look at the Manhattan Project, a story told in the context of the times that the project was undertaken.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xwpgmEvlRpM
If you’d like my blog in your box, just let me know: tim.moore@citcomm.com
Friday, July 16, 2010
Wednesday, July 14, 2010
Mp3 Killed The Audiophile
Everyone uses the term—and hardly anyone knows what it is, what it means—and how it has affected the way we listen to music/audio.
The term is “mp3”—given that name on this date in 1995—just 15 years ago.
Formally known as “MPEG-1Audio Layer 3”, the technology was an efficient way to compress digital audio.
Why compress? Well, taking up A LOT less computer real estate means inventions like iPods can store thousands of songs in a device the size of a deck of cards—or smaller.
Normally a single second of a song is roughly 176,000 bytes of data, meaning that a three minute song is approximately 32 million bytes (MB). In the mid 90’s, it was not unusual for a computer to have a hard drive capacity of only 500 MB, meaning it would be impossible to store even one ALBUM on a computer! Add in the standard 56K dial-up modem—and now we’re talking about literally ALL DAY to transfer that album over the internet.
So how does it all happen?
Audio engineers realized that the limitations of human hearing and our PERCEPTION of audio was such that up to 90 PERCENT of the audio in a standard CD could actually be REMOVED without the average listener hearing/perceiving the difference.
Of course, true audiophiles CAN tell the difference—and even casual listeners will say that analog “vinyl” records are “warmer” or “richer”. The compression algorithm is really a very sophisticated “connect– the-dots”, where entire chunks of music are removed—hoping you won’t notice.
The upside is that we can cram a ton of tunes on our little devices. The downside is that we are raising a generation of kids who have little use for audio quality. They (and we now) are listening to compressed files with large amounts of “data” (music) missing—and hearing it all on little earplugs we bought at CVS for a buck.
Remember the 70’s, when stereo systems were huge—speakers took up much of the living room and the components of the system were large—and heavy?
I miss that.
A short video here— a quick look at LOUDNESS—and how music compression IN THE RECORDING STUDIO—even before mp3 compression is applied—has affected the SOUND of what we commonly hear:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3Gmex_4hreQ
Our kids simply don’t care about the pristine quality of audio that was a never-ending quest when we were the same age. Maybe that’s good—if only because they’re not spending all their dough on stereo equipment.
But, when a musician’s craft is compromised for the sake of portability and convenience, there is a loss there as well.
One that may be irretrievable.
If you’d like my blog in your box, just let me know: tim.moore@citcomm.com
The term is “mp3”—given that name on this date in 1995—just 15 years ago.
Formally known as “MPEG-1Audio Layer 3”, the technology was an efficient way to compress digital audio.
Why compress? Well, taking up A LOT less computer real estate means inventions like iPods can store thousands of songs in a device the size of a deck of cards—or smaller.
Normally a single second of a song is roughly 176,000 bytes of data, meaning that a three minute song is approximately 32 million bytes (MB). In the mid 90’s, it was not unusual for a computer to have a hard drive capacity of only 500 MB, meaning it would be impossible to store even one ALBUM on a computer! Add in the standard 56K dial-up modem—and now we’re talking about literally ALL DAY to transfer that album over the internet.
So how does it all happen?
Audio engineers realized that the limitations of human hearing and our PERCEPTION of audio was such that up to 90 PERCENT of the audio in a standard CD could actually be REMOVED without the average listener hearing/perceiving the difference.
Of course, true audiophiles CAN tell the difference—and even casual listeners will say that analog “vinyl” records are “warmer” or “richer”. The compression algorithm is really a very sophisticated “connect– the-dots”, where entire chunks of music are removed—hoping you won’t notice.
The upside is that we can cram a ton of tunes on our little devices. The downside is that we are raising a generation of kids who have little use for audio quality. They (and we now) are listening to compressed files with large amounts of “data” (music) missing—and hearing it all on little earplugs we bought at CVS for a buck.
Remember the 70’s, when stereo systems were huge—speakers took up much of the living room and the components of the system were large—and heavy?
I miss that.
A short video here— a quick look at LOUDNESS—and how music compression IN THE RECORDING STUDIO—even before mp3 compression is applied—has affected the SOUND of what we commonly hear:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3Gmex_4hreQ
Our kids simply don’t care about the pristine quality of audio that was a never-ending quest when we were the same age. Maybe that’s good—if only because they’re not spending all their dough on stereo equipment.
But, when a musician’s craft is compromised for the sake of portability and convenience, there is a loss there as well.
One that may be irretrievable.
If you’d like my blog in your box, just let me know: tim.moore@citcomm.com
Tuesday, July 13, 2010
The Boss Is Dead
You won’t find a glowing tribute to the late George Steinbrenner in this blog.
And that’s not because I am a Red Sox fan.
While I won’t begrudge Steinbrenner the many successes of his long and tumultuous career, I will take issue with the way it was all done. In my view, it DOES matter HOW you accomplish the goals you set. And Steinbrenner’s single-minded focus on winning at all costs left a trail of broken relationships, betrayals and unscrupulous business dealings in its wake.
Was it all worth it?Ask The Boss—and he would undoubtedly say “Yes!” Ask those around him—maybe his family, but certainly his business associates—and you might get a different picture.
He was largely a self-made man—and his purchase of the struggling New York Yankees in 1973 for what was then a fortune--$8.8 million dollars—turned out to be a stroke of genius. That franchise is valued at over 1 billion today by some estimates—and it’s success can be tied directly to Steinbrenner’s iron-fist control over the years.
Born in Rocky River, Ohio, he was a track and field standout—and former Ohio State assistant football coach under Woody Hayes ( I knew there was SOMETHING I liked about George!) He was there the year the Buckeyes won a National Championship, culminating with a win in the Rose Bowl.
Joining his father’s struggling shipping company, Steinbrenner revitalized the firm. Against his Dad’s wishes, he entered the sports world first by purchasing the Cleveland Pipers of The American Basketball Association. Even though the Pipers won the ABL Championship in 1961-62, the league folded and Steinbrenner and his partners lost a considerable amount of money.
After dabbling in theatre, producing a Broadway show, Steinbrenner learned that Yankees owner CBS was looking to sell the team. Although the reported price was $10 million, that included a couple of parking garages that CBS later bought back for $1.2 million, making the net investment in the Yankees a total of $8.8 million.
Not bad.
Steinbrenner may be best known for his explosive temper and his penchant for firing Yankee managers routinely, but his foray into the free agent market may be his lasting “contribution” to baseball. His spent BIG for players like Reggie Jackson, earning the rap for “buying” American League pennants and World Series titles.
Whether he “bought” them or not, there is no question he got them. In the 37 years he owned the team, the Yankees won 11 Pennants and 7 World Series championships.
Here is a short video retrospect on the controversial life of The Boss:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rEIJKzbebf8
From his ban on facial hair to the Dave Winfield controversy to his removal for a time from active involvement with the team, George Steinbrenner was nothing if not…interesting. Few sports franchise owners have elevated themselves to celebrity status, something that The Boss most certainly achieved. His cameos on “Seinfeld” as himself cemented his place in American pop culture—as did his stint as host on “Saturday Night Live”
In short, his volatile temper, abusive behavior and lack of conscience in business was rewarded—with fortune—and fame.
His sons now run the Yankees—and while it’s true that they will never creep out from underneath their father’s shadow, my hope is that their legacy will be one of honesty and fair business deals that don’t trample people in the process.
I also wish for the Yankees to lose---and a lot.
R.I.P. George Steinbrenner. Hopefully, you’ll be in a place where they play the harp—and where no one keeps score.
If you’d like my blog in your box, just let me know: tim.moore@citcomm.com
And that’s not because I am a Red Sox fan.
While I won’t begrudge Steinbrenner the many successes of his long and tumultuous career, I will take issue with the way it was all done. In my view, it DOES matter HOW you accomplish the goals you set. And Steinbrenner’s single-minded focus on winning at all costs left a trail of broken relationships, betrayals and unscrupulous business dealings in its wake.
Was it all worth it?Ask The Boss—and he would undoubtedly say “Yes!” Ask those around him—maybe his family, but certainly his business associates—and you might get a different picture.
He was largely a self-made man—and his purchase of the struggling New York Yankees in 1973 for what was then a fortune--$8.8 million dollars—turned out to be a stroke of genius. That franchise is valued at over 1 billion today by some estimates—and it’s success can be tied directly to Steinbrenner’s iron-fist control over the years.
Born in Rocky River, Ohio, he was a track and field standout—and former Ohio State assistant football coach under Woody Hayes ( I knew there was SOMETHING I liked about George!) He was there the year the Buckeyes won a National Championship, culminating with a win in the Rose Bowl.
Joining his father’s struggling shipping company, Steinbrenner revitalized the firm. Against his Dad’s wishes, he entered the sports world first by purchasing the Cleveland Pipers of The American Basketball Association. Even though the Pipers won the ABL Championship in 1961-62, the league folded and Steinbrenner and his partners lost a considerable amount of money.
After dabbling in theatre, producing a Broadway show, Steinbrenner learned that Yankees owner CBS was looking to sell the team. Although the reported price was $10 million, that included a couple of parking garages that CBS later bought back for $1.2 million, making the net investment in the Yankees a total of $8.8 million.
Not bad.
Steinbrenner may be best known for his explosive temper and his penchant for firing Yankee managers routinely, but his foray into the free agent market may be his lasting “contribution” to baseball. His spent BIG for players like Reggie Jackson, earning the rap for “buying” American League pennants and World Series titles.
Whether he “bought” them or not, there is no question he got them. In the 37 years he owned the team, the Yankees won 11 Pennants and 7 World Series championships.
Here is a short video retrospect on the controversial life of The Boss:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rEIJKzbebf8
From his ban on facial hair to the Dave Winfield controversy to his removal for a time from active involvement with the team, George Steinbrenner was nothing if not…interesting. Few sports franchise owners have elevated themselves to celebrity status, something that The Boss most certainly achieved. His cameos on “Seinfeld” as himself cemented his place in American pop culture—as did his stint as host on “Saturday Night Live”
In short, his volatile temper, abusive behavior and lack of conscience in business was rewarded—with fortune—and fame.
His sons now run the Yankees—and while it’s true that they will never creep out from underneath their father’s shadow, my hope is that their legacy will be one of honesty and fair business deals that don’t trample people in the process.
I also wish for the Yankees to lose---and a lot.
R.I.P. George Steinbrenner. Hopefully, you’ll be in a place where they play the harp—and where no one keeps score.
If you’d like my blog in your box, just let me know: tim.moore@citcomm.com
Monday, July 12, 2010
Aaron Burr Shoots To Kill
Alexander Hamilton had it coming to him, they say.
In a time where dueling was legal—and a somewhat accepted means of defending your honor, Hamilton should perhaps have known that his libelous and slanderous comments regarding Aaron Burr would not go unpunished.
The story of Aaron Burr’s life and political career is fascinating. This is truly a man who was VERY close to becoming one of our Presidents. Back then, there was no “running mate” per se. Yes, they were chosen, but the top votegetter was elected President—and the runner up was Vice President.
A House of Representatives tie-breaking vote gave Thomas Jefferson the victory in 1800, paving the way to Jefferson becoming our third President. Burr became Vice President, but Alexander Hamilton , who despised Burr— did all he could to derail a presidential bid in the future.
This led to statements against Burr that were, shall we say…inflammatory.
So, Burr called Hamilton out.
Interestingly, most duals—or “Affairs Of Honor” as they were referred to—didn’t result in death. Sort of like rap stars, who must be the worst shots in the world, behind the Founding Fathers. Rap stars get “hit”, but usually only enough to sport the scar that says you have ARRIVED.
So too, apparently, with politicians back in the day. Most “duels” were actually resolved peaceably. A complex set of rules were followed and both sides usually walked away with their “honor” intact. There were, however, real shots fired at some duels—and Alexander Hamilton knew intimately of the danger.
The Hamilton-Burr duel occurred 206 years ago yesterday. On July 11, 1804 at 7am, the two met at dueling grounds in Weehawken, New Jersey. It was the same spot where Hamilton’s son had died defending his father’s honor two years prior.
There are conflicting reports of what happened next.
According to Hamilton’s “second” (his assistant and witness), Hamilton decided the duel was “morally wrong” and deliberately fired into the air. Burr’s second claimed that Hamilton did indeed fire at Burr—but missed. What is clear is that Burr shot Hamilton in the stomach, with the bullet lodging next to his spine.
Hamilton was taken to New York, where he died the next day.
Since few duels became deadly—and because of the prominence of the combatants, the nation was outraged at the killing of Hamilton. Charged with murder in New York and New Jersey, Burr returned to Washington to serve out his term-immune from prosecution.
Here is a short video clip of historian Gore Vidal, discussing these two complex men:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NPlw5RK0e5Q
By 1805, Burr was completely discredited—and actually concocted a plot with the Commander-In-Chief of the U.S. Army James Wilkinson, to seize the Louisiana Territory and establish an independent empire—which Burr presumably would lead. He contacted the British government to enlist their support in the scheme—which was rejected. When Burr led a group of well-armed colonists toward New Orleans, the U.S. Government investigated. In an effort to save himself, General Wilkinson turned against Burr, accusing him of treason.
Although arrested in 1807 and tried for treason, he was acquitted on a technicality. Still considered a traitor however, he fled to Europe. Later, he returned to private life in New York, the murder charges for Hamilton’s death forgotten-and died in 1836.
From Founding Father to almost President to Vice President to Traitor. That was Aaron Burr’s resume.
Almost makes today’s politicians seem harmless.
Almost.
If you’d like my blog in your daily box, just let me know: tim.moore@citcomm.com
In a time where dueling was legal—and a somewhat accepted means of defending your honor, Hamilton should perhaps have known that his libelous and slanderous comments regarding Aaron Burr would not go unpunished.
The story of Aaron Burr’s life and political career is fascinating. This is truly a man who was VERY close to becoming one of our Presidents. Back then, there was no “running mate” per se. Yes, they were chosen, but the top votegetter was elected President—and the runner up was Vice President.
A House of Representatives tie-breaking vote gave Thomas Jefferson the victory in 1800, paving the way to Jefferson becoming our third President. Burr became Vice President, but Alexander Hamilton , who despised Burr— did all he could to derail a presidential bid in the future.
This led to statements against Burr that were, shall we say…inflammatory.
So, Burr called Hamilton out.
Interestingly, most duals—or “Affairs Of Honor” as they were referred to—didn’t result in death. Sort of like rap stars, who must be the worst shots in the world, behind the Founding Fathers. Rap stars get “hit”, but usually only enough to sport the scar that says you have ARRIVED.
So too, apparently, with politicians back in the day. Most “duels” were actually resolved peaceably. A complex set of rules were followed and both sides usually walked away with their “honor” intact. There were, however, real shots fired at some duels—and Alexander Hamilton knew intimately of the danger.
The Hamilton-Burr duel occurred 206 years ago yesterday. On July 11, 1804 at 7am, the two met at dueling grounds in Weehawken, New Jersey. It was the same spot where Hamilton’s son had died defending his father’s honor two years prior.
There are conflicting reports of what happened next.
According to Hamilton’s “second” (his assistant and witness), Hamilton decided the duel was “morally wrong” and deliberately fired into the air. Burr’s second claimed that Hamilton did indeed fire at Burr—but missed. What is clear is that Burr shot Hamilton in the stomach, with the bullet lodging next to his spine.
Hamilton was taken to New York, where he died the next day.
Since few duels became deadly—and because of the prominence of the combatants, the nation was outraged at the killing of Hamilton. Charged with murder in New York and New Jersey, Burr returned to Washington to serve out his term-immune from prosecution.
Here is a short video clip of historian Gore Vidal, discussing these two complex men:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NPlw5RK0e5Q
By 1805, Burr was completely discredited—and actually concocted a plot with the Commander-In-Chief of the U.S. Army James Wilkinson, to seize the Louisiana Territory and establish an independent empire—which Burr presumably would lead. He contacted the British government to enlist their support in the scheme—which was rejected. When Burr led a group of well-armed colonists toward New Orleans, the U.S. Government investigated. In an effort to save himself, General Wilkinson turned against Burr, accusing him of treason.
Although arrested in 1807 and tried for treason, he was acquitted on a technicality. Still considered a traitor however, he fled to Europe. Later, he returned to private life in New York, the murder charges for Hamilton’s death forgotten-and died in 1836.
From Founding Father to almost President to Vice President to Traitor. That was Aaron Burr’s resume.
Almost makes today’s politicians seem harmless.
Almost.
If you’d like my blog in your daily box, just let me know: tim.moore@citcomm.com
Friday, July 9, 2010
Blowin' In The Wind
I was not quite four years old when Bob Dylan walked into a studio on this date in 1962 and recorded “Blowin’ In The Wind”.
It wouldn’t be released until a full year later, one of the tracks on “The Freewheelin’ Bob Dylan” (seems like it was cool in the 60’s to drop the “g” in “ing”) When Bob Dylan first performed it at Gerde’s Folk City in Greenwich Village, he introduced the song as follows:
“This here ain’t no protest song or anything like that, ‘cause I don’t write no protest songs”. He then proceeded to play one of the most eloquent protest songs ever written.
It could be that “Blowin’ In The Wind” struck a chord because it was so…well…vague. Protest songs as a genre were certainly emerging at that time, but most were very literal and specific. That this one was not—lent an air of mystery and depth to the lyrics—which made it perfect for protesting war, racial inequality—and a host of other social ills that the lyrics at least marginally addressed.
Most of America first heard the song not from Dylan, but rather from Peter, Paul and Mary, who recorded it and released it in June of 1963, just three weeks after Dylan’s album came out. While covered by literally hundreds of artists, it was the Peter, Paul and Mary version that became a smash pop hit.
I also think their version is the best.
Of course, I cannot be impartial. Noel Paul Stookey (“Paul”) lives in Maine and sang his solo hit “The Wedding Song” at St. Joseph's in Ellsworth for Peggy and I at our wedding 25 years ago. I had the honor of returning the favor some years later by acting as the DJ at Noel’s daughter’s wedding at their beautiful home near Blue Hill. It was there that I met the incredible Mary Travers (God rest her soul!)—picking up trash left by the revelers at the reception. When I asked her why a “star” was cleaning up, she matter-of-factly replied, “I may be a star, but I’m a Mom first!” I later met Peter Yarrow here at the WHOM studios when he arrived for an interview. It’s hard not to be star-struck when you think about their collective contributions.
The impact of Peter, Paul and Mary on the music scene—and in the social conscience of America—cannot be overstated. And, they would be first to admit that Dylan’s song, “Blowin’ In The Wind”—was the spark that really defined who they were as a trio. While “If I Had A Hammer” and “Puff The Magic Dragon” had been released prior—and were hits, it was “Blowin’ In The Wind” that elevated Peter, Paul and Mary into the lofty position (along with Dylan) as “spokespersons for a generation”.
Dylan’s video performances of the song are copyrighted by Sony Music and therefore unavailable here—however, here are Peter, Paul and Mary—performing this huge hit on TV in 1966:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3t4g_1VoGw4
The very first track on Dylan’s album, “Blowin’ In The Wind” became the unofficial anthem of the Civil Rights movement and was admitted to the Grammy Hall of Fame in 1999. It also sits at #14 on Rolling Stone Magazine’s list of “The 500 Greatest Songs Of All Time”.
If you’d like my blog in your inbox daily, just let me know: tim.moore@citcomm.com
Thursday, July 8, 2010
Autism Reveals A Genius
This blog is ALL about the video included—you will be astounded!
There’s no question that autism has bewildered medical professionals since being classified formally in 1938 by Hans Asperger of Vienna University, who was researched a particular manifestation—which now bears his name (Asperger’s Syndrome)
A neurological disorder that presents itself usually by the age of three and is characterized by impaired social interaction and repetitive behavior, the causes are said to be largely genetic, but environmental factors have not been entirely ruled out.
What is clear is that some individuals who suffer from some form of autism possess unusual or amazing abilities or talents in certain areas, one of them being artistic genius.
Such is the case with Stephen Wiltshire—an artist who—after flying over the city of Rome in a helicopter ONCE—was able to draw an amazing aerial view of the city.
Check out this incredible video:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jVqRT_kCOLI&feature=related
Can you BELIEVE this?
Not to discount the struggle of those who deal with children afflicted with autism, there is no question that within these brains of people who do not “march to the same drummer” as we do—as defined by “society”—there truly exists a kind of genius—whether or not we see its outward expression as clearly as we do with Mr. Wiltshire.
It is there, within.
On YouTube, you can find Stephen’s similar amazing feats with Tokyo, Sydney and other cities. Truly incredible.
If you’d like my blog in your box, just let me know: tim.moore@citcomm.com
There’s no question that autism has bewildered medical professionals since being classified formally in 1938 by Hans Asperger of Vienna University, who was researched a particular manifestation—which now bears his name (Asperger’s Syndrome)
A neurological disorder that presents itself usually by the age of three and is characterized by impaired social interaction and repetitive behavior, the causes are said to be largely genetic, but environmental factors have not been entirely ruled out.
What is clear is that some individuals who suffer from some form of autism possess unusual or amazing abilities or talents in certain areas, one of them being artistic genius.
Such is the case with Stephen Wiltshire—an artist who—after flying over the city of Rome in a helicopter ONCE—was able to draw an amazing aerial view of the city.
Check out this incredible video:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jVqRT_kCOLI&feature=related
Can you BELIEVE this?
Not to discount the struggle of those who deal with children afflicted with autism, there is no question that within these brains of people who do not “march to the same drummer” as we do—as defined by “society”—there truly exists a kind of genius—whether or not we see its outward expression as clearly as we do with Mr. Wiltshire.
It is there, within.
On YouTube, you can find Stephen’s similar amazing feats with Tokyo, Sydney and other cities. Truly incredible.
If you’d like my blog in your box, just let me know: tim.moore@citcomm.com
Wednesday, July 7, 2010
The Stripper--A Cultural Icon
There are a few pieces of music that have transcended whatever chart position they held or moment in time they occupied as a verifiable hit---to become literally synonymous with a particular activity or mood. These few arrangements of notes have somehow become part of the fabric of our society, a cultural “touchstone” that is common to everyone who hears it.
As The History Channel points out, playing the theme from “The Twilight Zone” evokes the occurrence of a spooky situation or kooky or scary scene. Likewise, someone humming the opening notes from that theme song of “Jaws” while sneaking up behind you in a swimming pool---will send a chill up your spine—as you conjure up the image of a Great White shark coming after you.
Such is the case for the theme from “Deliverance”, the “Theme From Rocky” and “Psycho”—and a few other songs whose repeated exposure has been associated with a specific situation.
One such tune is “The Stripper” by David Rose and his Orchestra, which reached #1 on the Pop charts on this date in 1962. Like many songs, its path to being a hit was something of an accident.
Composed in 1958 , it was used in an obscure TV show called “Burlesque”. The original composition was a total of 8 measures, used as background music-almost inaudible in the context of the show. Then, purely as a joke, Rose used a few spare minutes of studio time to record an extended version, using brass and enhanced percussion. He pressed it to vinyl and handed copies out as novelty gifts to orchestra members.
That was apparently that—until someone at MGM Records pulled the 1 minute and 55 second master recording out of the archives to throw on the “B” side of Rose’s release of “Ebb Tide”.
It took a Los Angeles DJ just one listen to realize the true hit was indeed NOT “Ebb Tide”, but “The Stripper”—and he played it almost continuously during one show. It became a local, then regional, then national smash hit!.
Here is a “video” slideshow—with the song as sound track—don’t worry—this is rated “G”!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h2W-cClCt4I
Hear that song anywhere, any time----and you, like everyone else—will think of only one thing.
And that one thing is NOT “G”-rated.
The unlikely hit for David Rose became the song that—regardless its association—has become a cultural icon!
If you’d like my blog in your box, just let me know: tim.moore@citcomm.com
As The History Channel points out, playing the theme from “The Twilight Zone” evokes the occurrence of a spooky situation or kooky or scary scene. Likewise, someone humming the opening notes from that theme song of “Jaws” while sneaking up behind you in a swimming pool---will send a chill up your spine—as you conjure up the image of a Great White shark coming after you.
Such is the case for the theme from “Deliverance”, the “Theme From Rocky” and “Psycho”—and a few other songs whose repeated exposure has been associated with a specific situation.
One such tune is “The Stripper” by David Rose and his Orchestra, which reached #1 on the Pop charts on this date in 1962. Like many songs, its path to being a hit was something of an accident.
Composed in 1958 , it was used in an obscure TV show called “Burlesque”. The original composition was a total of 8 measures, used as background music-almost inaudible in the context of the show. Then, purely as a joke, Rose used a few spare minutes of studio time to record an extended version, using brass and enhanced percussion. He pressed it to vinyl and handed copies out as novelty gifts to orchestra members.
That was apparently that—until someone at MGM Records pulled the 1 minute and 55 second master recording out of the archives to throw on the “B” side of Rose’s release of “Ebb Tide”.
It took a Los Angeles DJ just one listen to realize the true hit was indeed NOT “Ebb Tide”, but “The Stripper”—and he played it almost continuously during one show. It became a local, then regional, then national smash hit!.
Here is a “video” slideshow—with the song as sound track—don’t worry—this is rated “G”!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h2W-cClCt4I
Hear that song anywhere, any time----and you, like everyone else—will think of only one thing.
And that one thing is NOT “G”-rated.
The unlikely hit for David Rose became the song that—regardless its association—has become a cultural icon!
If you’d like my blog in your box, just let me know: tim.moore@citcomm.com
Tuesday, July 6, 2010
Life Lessons From Forrest Gump
If you ask most people to name their all-time Top Ten favorite movies, there’s a good chance that “Forrest Gump” will be on that list.
It is near the top on mine.
The movie became an instant classic after opening to moviegoers on this date in 1994. Based on the novel of the same name by Winston Groom, the story of an Alabama boy with an IQ of 75 who nonetheless makes his mark in the world (in several arenas) is an inspiration to everyone no matter their intelligence.
The film was a blockbuster, earning 13 Academy Award nominations—and taking home six Oscars, including “Best Picture”, “Best Actor In A Leading Role” (Tom Hanks) and “Best Director”(Robert Zemeckis). The movie also earned an Academy Award for what was cutting-edge 16 years ago—inserting Forrest Gump into existing news footage of President Kennedy, John Lennon and Richard Nixon. The computer-generated images that depicted Gump’s Viet Nam commanding officer without legs was also (and still is if you ask me) a mind-blowing special effect.
It wasn’t special effects that endeared this film to millions, however. It was the universal story of unconditional love—the love that Forrest had for Jenny, despite her multiple dismissals of him once she reached young adulthood.
As he said himself, “I’m not a smart man, but I do know what love is”
Indeed he did.
And while we laughed at his shortcomings throughout the movie—as did everyone who surrounded him in his lifetime, we can all learn from the values that were embodied in Forrest Gump—namely:
1) Don’t hold a grudge. No matter how poorly he was treated, Forrest always treated everyone with the respect they deserved—the same respect that eluded him from others.
2) Tell the truth. Forrest was not a wordsmith, but his simple outlook on life was direct and to the point. And it was unvarnished truth.
3) Love unconditionally. If Forrest’s outward expressions of love—awkward though they may have been—were dependent on reciprocal responses from Jenny-or whomever—there would not have been a story here. Jenny was there for Forrest when he was a boy and stood up for him when others bullied him. He never forgot this—and never let Jenny’s indifference or outright rejection define or alter his pure love for her, a love that was finally rewarded, even though it was short-lived.
4) Be loyal. Whether it was Jenny, his mother, his comrades in battle—or anyone else, Forrest was above all—loyal. He could be counted upon.
5) Be persistent. From walking with braces, to running across the country. From learning to assemble an M-16 rifle to becoming a world-class ping pong player, Forrest kept at it until he mastered it, whatever “it” was.
6) Be childlike. True, this took little effort for someone whose mind was closer to that of a child to begin with, but his outlook on life was always reflected in way he approached everything. Enthused, filled with wonder and anticipation.
There are likely more than this, but we’d be well served to adopt the half dozen attitudes listed above. Imagine the transformational power if all of us acted in the way that Forrest did.
Here’s the trailer for the 1994 classic, “Forrest Gump”:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uPIEn0M8su0&feature=related
The most often quoted line from the movie, “Life is like a box of chocolates—you never know what you’re gonna get”—is true, profound and exceedingly simple.
Yeah, he’s a fictional character, but he’s also an ideal to aspire to. Would that we could accept with grace and humility all that happens to us!
If a guy with an IQ of 75 can do it…maybe we can too!
If you’d like my blog in your weekday box, just let me know: tim.moore@citcomm.com
It is near the top on mine.
The movie became an instant classic after opening to moviegoers on this date in 1994. Based on the novel of the same name by Winston Groom, the story of an Alabama boy with an IQ of 75 who nonetheless makes his mark in the world (in several arenas) is an inspiration to everyone no matter their intelligence.
The film was a blockbuster, earning 13 Academy Award nominations—and taking home six Oscars, including “Best Picture”, “Best Actor In A Leading Role” (Tom Hanks) and “Best Director”(Robert Zemeckis). The movie also earned an Academy Award for what was cutting-edge 16 years ago—inserting Forrest Gump into existing news footage of President Kennedy, John Lennon and Richard Nixon. The computer-generated images that depicted Gump’s Viet Nam commanding officer without legs was also (and still is if you ask me) a mind-blowing special effect.
It wasn’t special effects that endeared this film to millions, however. It was the universal story of unconditional love—the love that Forrest had for Jenny, despite her multiple dismissals of him once she reached young adulthood.
As he said himself, “I’m not a smart man, but I do know what love is”
Indeed he did.
And while we laughed at his shortcomings throughout the movie—as did everyone who surrounded him in his lifetime, we can all learn from the values that were embodied in Forrest Gump—namely:
1) Don’t hold a grudge. No matter how poorly he was treated, Forrest always treated everyone with the respect they deserved—the same respect that eluded him from others.
2) Tell the truth. Forrest was not a wordsmith, but his simple outlook on life was direct and to the point. And it was unvarnished truth.
3) Love unconditionally. If Forrest’s outward expressions of love—awkward though they may have been—were dependent on reciprocal responses from Jenny-or whomever—there would not have been a story here. Jenny was there for Forrest when he was a boy and stood up for him when others bullied him. He never forgot this—and never let Jenny’s indifference or outright rejection define or alter his pure love for her, a love that was finally rewarded, even though it was short-lived.
4) Be loyal. Whether it was Jenny, his mother, his comrades in battle—or anyone else, Forrest was above all—loyal. He could be counted upon.
5) Be persistent. From walking with braces, to running across the country. From learning to assemble an M-16 rifle to becoming a world-class ping pong player, Forrest kept at it until he mastered it, whatever “it” was.
6) Be childlike. True, this took little effort for someone whose mind was closer to that of a child to begin with, but his outlook on life was always reflected in way he approached everything. Enthused, filled with wonder and anticipation.
There are likely more than this, but we’d be well served to adopt the half dozen attitudes listed above. Imagine the transformational power if all of us acted in the way that Forrest did.
Here’s the trailer for the 1994 classic, “Forrest Gump”:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uPIEn0M8su0&feature=related
The most often quoted line from the movie, “Life is like a box of chocolates—you never know what you’re gonna get”—is true, profound and exceedingly simple.
Yeah, he’s a fictional character, but he’s also an ideal to aspire to. Would that we could accept with grace and humility all that happens to us!
If a guy with an IQ of 75 can do it…maybe we can too!
If you’d like my blog in your weekday box, just let me know: tim.moore@citcomm.com
Friday, July 2, 2010
Amelia Earhart Vanishes
Is there a mystery bigger than that of Amelia Earhart?
The accomplished pilot was a national celebrity—and well known worldwide. Despite her skills and the fact that she was traveling with an experienced navigator, Fred Noonan, the two of them simply vanished on this date in 1937.
The Lockheed aircraft they were traveling in was designed to float, but apparently didn’t if it performed what the airlines euphemistically refer to today as a “water landing”—and it’s known that Amelia was low on fuel (she had radioed that fact shortly before they went down). It is likely that the plane crashed-landed, but where? Why has no trace of the aircraft ever been found?
While searching for Howland Island in the Pacific, somehow they got lost—and in spite of the massive efforts to find this American heroine and her navigator, nothing has turned up in over 70 years. Documents, yes. Eyewitness accounts also. Conspiracy theories abound and the fascination with Earhart’s disappearance has not diminished with the passage of time.
Indeed, it has grown stronger—and sometimes bizarre. Was she on a secret spy mission for the United States? Was she captured by the Japanese and taken prisoner? Did her plane crash land and somehow the both of them lived for years on an atoll in the South Pacific?
Until there is definitive proof of what exactly DID happen, one cannot rule out all of the other scenarios.
Check out this 3 part show on Amelia from the old popular TV program “In Search Of….” Starring Leonard Nimoy (“Mr. Spock”!) This show was usually rife with UFO sightings, wild theories and crazy people. That’s part of what made it entertaining. This episode was no different:
Part 1
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UsLDA-ItfHA
Part 2
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IJw_MdmElXE&feature=related
Part 3
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l0UWjtQtHds&feature=related
Each story in the above program sounds plausible until you hear the NEXT one! I do believe that someday we will know definitively exactly what happened. Either classified documents will be released or, like the discovery of the Titanic, new technology will find the remains of her plane in the Pacific.
However it turns out, there’s no question that Amelia Earhart lived life on her terms and not those of a husband or anyone else—a trait that is still a rarity today—and virtually unheard of for a woman during her time. That, in my mind, is a bigger accomplishment than any aviation feat she achieved.
If you’d like my blog in your weekday box, just let me know! Tim.moore@citcomm.com
The accomplished pilot was a national celebrity—and well known worldwide. Despite her skills and the fact that she was traveling with an experienced navigator, Fred Noonan, the two of them simply vanished on this date in 1937.
The Lockheed aircraft they were traveling in was designed to float, but apparently didn’t if it performed what the airlines euphemistically refer to today as a “water landing”—and it’s known that Amelia was low on fuel (she had radioed that fact shortly before they went down). It is likely that the plane crashed-landed, but where? Why has no trace of the aircraft ever been found?
While searching for Howland Island in the Pacific, somehow they got lost—and in spite of the massive efforts to find this American heroine and her navigator, nothing has turned up in over 70 years. Documents, yes. Eyewitness accounts also. Conspiracy theories abound and the fascination with Earhart’s disappearance has not diminished with the passage of time.
Indeed, it has grown stronger—and sometimes bizarre. Was she on a secret spy mission for the United States? Was she captured by the Japanese and taken prisoner? Did her plane crash land and somehow the both of them lived for years on an atoll in the South Pacific?
Until there is definitive proof of what exactly DID happen, one cannot rule out all of the other scenarios.
Check out this 3 part show on Amelia from the old popular TV program “In Search Of….” Starring Leonard Nimoy (“Mr. Spock”!) This show was usually rife with UFO sightings, wild theories and crazy people. That’s part of what made it entertaining. This episode was no different:
Part 1
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UsLDA-ItfHA
Part 2
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IJw_MdmElXE&feature=related
Part 3
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l0UWjtQtHds&feature=related
Each story in the above program sounds plausible until you hear the NEXT one! I do believe that someday we will know definitively exactly what happened. Either classified documents will be released or, like the discovery of the Titanic, new technology will find the remains of her plane in the Pacific.
However it turns out, there’s no question that Amelia Earhart lived life on her terms and not those of a husband or anyone else—a trait that is still a rarity today—and virtually unheard of for a woman during her time. That, in my mind, is a bigger accomplishment than any aviation feat she achieved.
If you’d like my blog in your weekday box, just let me know! Tim.moore@citcomm.com
Thursday, July 1, 2010
Too Much Time On Your Hands
(You simply HAVE to watch the video on this one!)
Sometimes I feel so busy that just keeping up with my routine “to-do list” is just too daunting a task. That’s why I marvel at people with unique skills, abilities that clearly take a fair amount of time to develop.
Time I don’t have and can’t seem to find.
Some of these “talents” have little relevance or application in day-to-day living. For instance, those two Maine guys who discovered that dropping Mentos into 2 liter bottles of Diet Coke create a volcanic reaction. OK…so perhaps this discovery happened by accident. However, these two guys weren’t content to leave it at that. No, they took the next, time-consuming step by orchestrating a symphony of geysers that created a YouTube sensation—which they parlayed into TV appearances on the national stage. This week, they’ll rollout a VEHICLE powered by this soda and candy combustible combination.
That took time.
So too, the yo-yo expert, the Frisbee master and half the performers on “America’s Got Talent”. Useless endeavors, nonetheless performed with precision and a skill that makes one ask: “What do these people do for a LIVING?”
I suppose if you can generate enough interest in the human version of Letterman’s “Stupid Pet Tricks”, you can gain notoriety and perhaps make a few bucks. From hula-hoop experts to masters of juggling, balancing objects and spinning plates, the typical performer is a single male. Developing such, shall we say? ….UNUSUAL skills is not the work of a chick magnet, so it’s likely that bachelorhood (whether by choice or not) will extend far into the future.
We, the audience, watch with a mixture of awe and amazement. Awe for whatever the amazing skill could be-and how many hours it took to acquire---and amazement for how it is that any human being could devote endless hours to hone an activity that seems somewhat…OK, I’ll say it—STUPID to the rest of us!
Case in point. Check out the following video of a master business card thrower.
Yes, that’s right. Someone who THROWS BUSINESS CARDS.
Genetically linked no doubt to the brainchild who first thought of the idea of snapping bottle caps across the room at random targets, this genius has perfected the art of hitting a variety of targets with the pointy end of a business card, traveling at high velocity.
Check it out:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FVq0HdiM-Ok
Amazing, no? Unless I’m being fooled by trick camera editing, this is truly the work of a master! Whatever possessed this guy to wake up one day and declare, “Say, I think I’ll start practicing my skills at throwing business cards!”?
Perhaps this desire turned into a passion over time. Only one thing is for certain. It’s genesis from an idea in the brain stem to its complete development and implementation required copious amounts of beer.
So, to you time-wasters, you masters of odd activities…we salute you! We wonder about your sanity, but we applaud your dedication to entertaining both yourself and others with truly useless talents!
If you’d like my blog in your weekday box, just let me know: tim.moore@citcomm.com
Sometimes I feel so busy that just keeping up with my routine “to-do list” is just too daunting a task. That’s why I marvel at people with unique skills, abilities that clearly take a fair amount of time to develop.
Time I don’t have and can’t seem to find.
Some of these “talents” have little relevance or application in day-to-day living. For instance, those two Maine guys who discovered that dropping Mentos into 2 liter bottles of Diet Coke create a volcanic reaction. OK…so perhaps this discovery happened by accident. However, these two guys weren’t content to leave it at that. No, they took the next, time-consuming step by orchestrating a symphony of geysers that created a YouTube sensation—which they parlayed into TV appearances on the national stage. This week, they’ll rollout a VEHICLE powered by this soda and candy combustible combination.
That took time.
So too, the yo-yo expert, the Frisbee master and half the performers on “America’s Got Talent”. Useless endeavors, nonetheless performed with precision and a skill that makes one ask: “What do these people do for a LIVING?”
I suppose if you can generate enough interest in the human version of Letterman’s “Stupid Pet Tricks”, you can gain notoriety and perhaps make a few bucks. From hula-hoop experts to masters of juggling, balancing objects and spinning plates, the typical performer is a single male. Developing such, shall we say? ….UNUSUAL skills is not the work of a chick magnet, so it’s likely that bachelorhood (whether by choice or not) will extend far into the future.
We, the audience, watch with a mixture of awe and amazement. Awe for whatever the amazing skill could be-and how many hours it took to acquire---and amazement for how it is that any human being could devote endless hours to hone an activity that seems somewhat…OK, I’ll say it—STUPID to the rest of us!
Case in point. Check out the following video of a master business card thrower.
Yes, that’s right. Someone who THROWS BUSINESS CARDS.
Genetically linked no doubt to the brainchild who first thought of the idea of snapping bottle caps across the room at random targets, this genius has perfected the art of hitting a variety of targets with the pointy end of a business card, traveling at high velocity.
Check it out:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FVq0HdiM-Ok
Amazing, no? Unless I’m being fooled by trick camera editing, this is truly the work of a master! Whatever possessed this guy to wake up one day and declare, “Say, I think I’ll start practicing my skills at throwing business cards!”?
Perhaps this desire turned into a passion over time. Only one thing is for certain. It’s genesis from an idea in the brain stem to its complete development and implementation required copious amounts of beer.
So, to you time-wasters, you masters of odd activities…we salute you! We wonder about your sanity, but we applaud your dedication to entertaining both yourself and others with truly useless talents!
If you’d like my blog in your weekday box, just let me know: tim.moore@citcomm.com
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
