Category: Featured

On This Day: Steve Peregrin Took

Born on this day July 28, 1949, Steve Peregrin Took was an iconic figure in the British psychedelic rock scene of the late 1960s. As a pioneering musician and songwriter, he contributed significantly to the early works of the English band Tyrannosaurus Rex, which would later evolve into the globally recognized glam-rock band, T. Rex. …

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Sam Beam: The Storyteller Behind Iron & Wine’s Hauntingly Beautiful Lyrics

Sam Beam, the mastermind behind Iron & Wine, has firmly cemented his place as one of the most influential singer-songwriters of the 21st century. His unique ability to weave intricate narratives into hauntingly beautiful lyrics has captivated audiences around the globe. Beam, originally a film professor from Florida, began recording music in his basement under …

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Charlotte Gainsbourg: From Actress to Singer-Songwriter Extraordinaire

Charlotte Gainsbourg is a multi-faceted artist, who has successfully transitioned from acting into the realm of music, becoming a singer-songwriter extraordinaire. Born on this day July 21, 1971 into a family of creative luminaries, she was no stranger to the world of performance and artistry. Daughter of the esteemed British actress Jane Birkin and the renowned …

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The Top 9 Desmond Dekker Songs You Need to Hear Right Now

Desmond Dekker is one of the most influential musicians to come out of Jamaica, and his legacy continues to inspire countless artists today. Known as the “King of Ska,” Dekker’s music blended elements of Jamaican folk and American R&B to create a sound that was both infectious and timeless. With a career spanning over three …

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Soviet Film Wednesday: Russian Sugar Ad

Here’s a little treat for this Wednesday: a jam ad created for Russian Sugar directed by Yuri Norstein. It was one of a group of Russian Sugar commercials made by Norstein between 1994 and 1995 that used cutouts and drawings for the animations (a bit past the Soviet era but still delightful and created by …

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Compay Segundo, the Exceptional “Second Compadre” in Buena Vista Social Club

Compay Segundo is a name that resonates profoundly within the realm of traditional Cuban music. Born as Máximo Francisco Repilado Muñoz on November 18, 1907, in Siboney, Cuba, he adopted his stage name, Compay Segundo, which translates into “second compadre,” an allusion to his often being second voice in his musical partnerships. Compay Segundo’s musical …

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Exploring the Timeless Charm of Austin’s Mid-Century Modern Homes

Step back in time and immerse yourself in the timeless charm of Austin’s mid-century modern homes. Nestled among the vibrant neighborhoods and picturesque landscapes, these architectural gems serve as a reminder of a bygone era while seamlessly blending with the city’s modern allure. From their clean lines and open floor plans to their iconic rooflines …

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Musical Maverick: The Unique Style of Lee Hazlewood’s Music

Born on this day July 9, 1929 in Mannford, Oklahoma, Lee Hazlewood, a musical maverick, carved out a unique position for himself in the realm of music. His craftsmanship as a songwriter, producer, and singer is as distinct as it is compelling. The unique style of his music is marked by an eclectic blend of …

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The Unforgettable Legacy of Frida Kahlo: How her Art Continues to Inspire

Remembered for her her unique and compelling style, Frida Kahlo was born on this day, July 6, 1907 in Coyoacán, Mexico City, Mexico. Categorized often into the genre of Surrealism, Kahlo’s work transcended the boundaries of this movement, creating a niche of its own. Her art, emblematic of her resilient spirit and unwavering courage, continues to …

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How Vince Clarke Transformed the Sound of Synthpop

Born on this day July 3, 1960 in South Woodford, England, Vince Clarke, a pivotal figure in the synthpop genre, significantly transformed the sound of this music style through his work with multiple influential bands including Depeche Mode, Yazoo (known as Yaz in North America), and Erasure. As a songwriter, keyboardist, and producer, Clarke’s impact on …

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