George Michael - RIP

I, like many of you, was so shocked to hear that George Michael died today. I always thought his voice was so strong on the song "One More Try" soaring from low to high with ease. On Twitter someone posted him singing a Queen song (with David Bowie and Seal, no less, looking on from the sidelines). I always thought that no one could match Freddie Mercury's or Elton John's vocals, but George Michael could. And who could emulate George Michael's? Not many. Some singers make it look so easy. Maybe the singing is the easiest part of it for them, and living life is the harder part. Please read this article by the great Bob Lefsetz on George's artistic contribution, and what it costs to be an artist.

Please also read Rob Sheffield's great tribute to George in Rolling Stone, here.

Inktober Day 24 ONE DOZEN

A juggler and a baker!

Tonight I went to the grocery store determined to buy only the healthiest ingredients possible.  I also ambled over to the magazine section where I always spend way too much money.  Bruce Springsteen was on the cover of Rolling Stone Magazine and there was also a great article on Sturgis Simpson in there, but it was $6.99 and yet, contained so few pages.  I already have Springsteen's autobiography, Born to Run, so I decided to pass.  But then, what's this?  A new cooking magazine by Chris Kimball called Milk Street Magazine.  Build flavor without searing meat before stewing?  Roast oranges?  Create Asian coleslaw?  What?  I flip to the front--the price is...$6.99.  And I put it into my cart and decide there's so many recipes and different foods in the universe that I just am going to have to die early with a very well-developed palate.  What can I do?  I am helpless in the face of culinary adventure.

Malcolm Young (No Longer Available)

I was so sad to hear about Malcolm Young, founding member of AC/DC, one of the best rock/metal bands of all time, is suffering from dementia.  Actually, I had read that news earlier this year, but reading a second report of it today makes it appear very serious.  Here's a link if you haven't already heard.

I mean, I have to include a classic AC/DC clip here, with brother Angus moving in forward step fury in his schoolboy uniform,  But first, pay attention to the following track which gave a taste of what was to come.  Recorded in their AC/DC precursor group, Marcus Hook Roll Band, listen to this great single Rolling Stone magazine featured back in May of this year called "Louisiana Lady."  The greatness was there, even at 18 (Angus) and 20 (Malcolm) years of age.

Send out a prayer for an Aussie who gave the world a band and a reason to headbang in melodious style.   Thank you, Malcolm.

SERIOUSLY, listen to this--so good and such good sax!

Rolling Stone Magazine Malcolm and Angus :"Louisiana Lady"

Now a little "Highway to Hell."  I'll never forget this song playing on the radio--the VERY FIRST song!--as I headed off with an old roommate, her boyfriend, and his roommate to New Orleans and Austin back in college.  WHY didn't I heed the calling from the boys--it was a disastrous trip, but I ignored the metal warning.  Ah, well.  Live and learn.  Kick it, Angus!

"Highway to Hell"

Here's a great "Behind the Music" special on AC/DC.