E Z Rider...

On this day in rock history, in 1971, Iron Butterfly disband one month after “In-A-Gadda-Da-Vida” falls off the Album Chart, following a 138 week run. Ah, but they were to rise again – The band reformed in 1974 with Ron Bushy and Erik Brann joined by bassist Philip Taylor Kramer and keyboardist Howard Reitzes. Brann, who had done occasional lead vocals during Iron Butterfly's original run, served as the band's main lead vocalist. Check out this vid from their late ’71 period (with members Mike Pinera and Rhino Reinhardt). Half-naked drummers rule! And check out the hot licks that start at 3:10 - sizzlin'! Thanks to http://www.rockintown.com/today-in-rock.html and http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Iron_Butterfly for the info, and keep on rockin’!

I'm A Man...

On this date in rock history, in 1969, The Chicago Transit Authority (later known simply as “Chicago”) release their self-titled debut double album. When I first heard this album back in the spring of my senior year in high school, I was just knocked out – here was an eclectic mix of jazz, rock, psychedelia, and blue eyed soul; heavy rock with horns! The music still holds up today; check out this vid (helluva drum solo starting at 3:13!) and keep on rockin’! Thanks to http://www.rockintown.com/today-in-rock.html for the info.

I Feel Good…

Unh! Good God! Ow! On this day in rock history, in 1933, the Godfather of Soul, James Brown, was born in a one-room shack near Barnwell, South Carolina. The Soul legend's style, sound and stage presentation had a major impact on Rock. He was also influential in the development of Funk, Hip-Hop and Rap. Let’s hear it for the “Hardest Working Man in Show Business” by celebrating his life. He was also a frequent target for lampooning by comedians due to his stage antics, flamboyant dress, and dramatic cape routines. Check out these vids, thanks to http://www.rockintown.com/today-in-rock.html, and keep on rockin’!