We remember Marilyn Monroe 1926-62

She was born Norma Jeane Mortenson on June 1, 1926 in Los Angeles, California. 

During her career, Monroe's films grossed more than $200 million.  

Marilyn was only 36 when she died on August 5, 1962.

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June 1, 1925: Lou Gehrig began his streak

In 1925, a young Lou Gehrig was used as a pinch hitter.   He replaced Wally Pipp the next day and did not miss another game until 1939 when he left for medical reasons.   

Gehrig played 2,164 career games and the streak was 2,130!    His last game was in 1939 and died in 1941.

The Iron Horse, as he was known, retired with 493 HR, 1,995 RBI and a .340 batting average.    Incredibly, he averaged 0.92 RBI per game!  

P.S.  You can listen to my show.  If you like our posts, please look for ”Donate” on the right column of the blog page.

We remember Dean Chance (1941-2015)

We remember Dean Chance who was born in Ohio on this day in 1941 and died in 2015.  

Chance broke with the Angels in 1964:   20-9, a 1.69 ERA, 11 shutouts and 15 complete games.   

Later, he was traded to the Twins and had a great 1967 season:  20-14 and 2.73 ERA.     

My biggest memory of Chance was pitching for the Twins, specially when Boston and Minnesota played for the AL pennant in the last day of the 1967 season.

Overall, he won 128 games with a 2.92 ERA!    

P.S.  You can listen to my show.  If you like our posts, please look for ”Donate” on the right column of the blog page.

June 1966: The Beatles: "Paperback writer" & "Rain"

The Beatles recorded great songs.  

We will look at one of their best singles:  "Paperback Writer" and the B-side of "Rain".

The songs were not included in the "Revolver" or "Yesterday and today" LP's in the US or elsewhere.  

In fact, "Paperback writer" was finally released in a US LP "Hey Jude" &  "1962-66" or greatest hits LP released in 1973.    Unfortunately, "Rain" was not released in stereo for a long time.

"Rain" was clearly ahead of its time.  It could have been released on "Sgt. Pepper's" or "Magical Mystery Tour".   At the end of the song, the vocal track is placed in reverse, which is why the lyrics don't make any sense.    

A great 45!   As you can see, the 45 cover photo was a mistake.   It shows John & George playing the guitar as lefties.    Was that a mistake or done on purpose?  I've often wondered!

P.S.  You can listen to my show.  If you like our posts, please look for ”Donate” on the right column of the blog page.

June 1967: Another anniversary for Sgt Pepper

It was June 1, 1967 and  Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band hit the record stores. 

Today, there are still people buying it.    In fact, there are many people who have this album on LP, cassette, 8-track, reel to reel, CD and whatever they call downloads.

It was their 8th LP and more like a concept rather than a collection of songs or singles.   George Martin used different recording techniques and the LP cover was great artwork.

“Pepper” was very different. Yet, was it The Beatles' best album?

My answer is no. I think that "Rubber Soul" and "Revolver [UK]" are better.    Sgt. Peppers gets a very strong B-plus.

P.S.  You can listen to my show.  If you like our posts, please look for ”Donate” on the right column of the blog page.