As I Tweeted
I just finished part one of the Beatles documentary “Get Back.” What a cliffhanger! I don’t have time to binge-watch the rest tonight, but sure hope the boys patch things up with George and get him back in the band.
Tony & Gaga
Some thoughts about the Tony Bennett/Lady Gaga special that aired on CBS last night, a worthy finale to his eight-decade career, and quite a testament to the power of music to (temporarily) overcome the ravages of dementia.
My Triple Show Week
Since I know I’ve done what’s right to protect myself and others against COVID, I refuse to give up the ability to continue enjoying my life whenever and wherever I like. That’s why last week, I went to three different venues to take in live performances. Here’s the story.
Tony Bennett’s Final Act
Anderson Cooper had a wonderful piece on “60 Minutes” about Tony Bennett, now 95 years old and suffering from dementia. Yet, despite severe memory problems, the old crooner can still remember the tunes he has sung for 70 years. Just watch.
Saturday At The Symphony
My wife and I were very happy to be back in Powell Symphony Hall on Saturday night for our first chance since before COVID to see and hear the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra in person. Here’s what it was like.
Movie Review: “Count Me In”
My review of a new documentary about drummers, including some of the biggest names in the business — past and present. It’s fun to watch them explain how they do what they do, and give credit to those who preceded and inspired them.
Charlie Watts
Charlie Watts, the Rolling Stones drummer, has died at 80 and, to my knowledge, leaves behind a life that included no gossip whatsoever. But there’s one story about him that I love.
Walter Yetnikoff
When I heard that former Columbia Records president Walter Yetnikoff died Sunday (just days before his 88th birthday), I remembered the conversation I had with him in 2004 — one of my all-time favorites. You can listen to it here.