Lost Gold Records

Leslie Nielsen Remembered

2010-11-29T11:03:00.000-08:00

The great comic actor from films such as Airplane! and Naked Gun died Sunday, November 28^th at a hospital near his Florida home from complications with pneumonia. He was 84 years old. A horde of celebrities have taken to honoring the memory of Lt. Frank Drebin (his Naked Gun character) on Twitter, quoting their favorite lines from his movies. David Hinckley of the New York Daily News writes, “Nielsen's deadpan approach made him seem like a character who had wandered in from another movie, often speaking in absurdities and non sequiturs.”

Nielsen was married four times and is survived by two children.

Alisa Hathaway
November 2010

Dolly Parton – New Album, New Tour, New Friendship?

2010-11-22T10:22:00.000-08:00

Dolly Parton – New Album, New Tour, New Friendship?

Dolly Parton (the woman, the music, the brand) has announced she’ll be going on The Boot's
tour for the summer of 2011, after the release of her 43rd studio album. This is the
first tour or album to come from Dolly in three years, since the release of Backwoods Barbie in 2008.

The Boot reports that Dolly is currently working on a movie and subsequent
soundtrack with R&B artist, jazz singer, and acclaimed actress Queen Latifah. The
current working title of the film is A Joyful Noise, and country fans as well as R&B
fans will surely be making a joyful noise at this duet. The two women are recording
original songs for the movie soundtrack together, with the help of a full choir. Both
camps report the artists are excited to work together and anticipate their voices and
styles blending well for the music AND the movie.

For more information on A Joyful Noise, peruse The Boot’s article. The Boot's article

For updates on Dolly’s upcoming album and 2011 tour, visit her website.

Alisa Hathaway
November 2010

It’s Been A Hard Day’s Night, but iTunes finally did it!

2010-11-17T10:31:00.000-08:00

Do you want to know a secret? Well, in fact, it isn’t a secret at all – it’s a Revolution. In case you’ve been hiding under a rock, BIG NEWS across the universe: the full Beatles catalog of music is now available for download on iTunes, just in time for Christmas shopping season. Here comes the sun!

Though Steve Jobs and Apple Inc. certainly can’t buy me love, it seems they can buy the right to sell anything they please (please me.) The now-infamous legal battle between Apple Corps, the Beatles’ record label, and Apple Inc raged on for years with too much monkey business over the “Apple” trademark. Being for the benefit of Mr. Kite, (Mr. Kite, of course, being Mr. Jobs in this case) the dispute was settled with a little help from my friends. Okay, actually, the court decided that Apple Inc is perfectly entitled to sell any prerecorded content as long as they’re not distributing it as their own yellow submarine.

Apple Inc has originally signed an agreement stating they would not enter the music distribution business with the Apple name and logo. Apple Corps maintains that they violated this agreement by opening the iTunes store, cried “Don’t let me down!” and originally filed a case against Apple Inc in 2003. But after all the helter skelter, the only happiness Apple Corps can hope for is a warm gun. Oh, Darling!

In the end, Apple Corps had to let it be and allow Apple Inc to come together to release every little thing the Beatles released. While my guitar gently weeps for the record label, it certainly is Johnny B. Goode to have remastered, high quality versions of Beatles’ classics from one, all-inclusive source. If I fell in the love with the Beatles way back when I saw her standing there, these new releases just give me another reason to shout “Hey Jude!”

For more information on Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band, go in through the bathroom window.

To recall A Day in the Life of the early Beatles’ recordings, check out the Quarrymen presented by Lost Gold Records. Alternately, you can Meat Dbeatles like you never have before!

Until next time, I am the walrus.

Alisa Hathaway

November 2010

Four-Year Legal Battle Forces Limewire Shutdown

2010-11-08T09:26:00.000-08:00

“According to RIAA figures, US recorded music sales fell to $7.7bn in 2009 from $14.5bn in 1999.”
- Josh Halliday, The Guardian

Limewire interface.

While it seems ludicrous for the Recording Industry Association of America to blame these losses solely on the popular peer-to-peer filesharing network, they have finally won their grueling court case. After a decade online, Limewire has officially been shut down due to widespread copyright infringement.

What does this mean for the hordes of other online services that are still available for your illegal downloadable pleasure? If the disintegration of Napster and Limewire are any indication, nothing good.

If you’d like something to take you back to a simpler day when owning music meant purchasing a vinyl record you could hold in your hands, might we here at Lost Gold Records suggest our Classic Roots series? Classic Roots Jazz or Western Swing could be the perfect burst of nostalgia you were hoping for.

For a selection of music available through Lost Gold and DMusic Records, visit iTunes or Amazon.

For more information on the death of Limewire, take a look at this article in The Guardian last week.

R.I.P. Limewire

Alisa Hathaway

November 2010

Know Your Remakes: Britney Spears’ “Oops I Did It Again”

2010-11-01T07:36:00.000-07:00

As a recent Glee episode (Britney/Brittany) so aptly showed us, Ms. Britney Spears was a showstopping performer in the modern pop genre. Garnering comparisons to pop legend Madonna, Britney rose above the pack to sell some of the most memorable music from the late nineties and early 2000s.

Here is the Glee cast’s recent version of Spears’ greatest hit.

Though Glee’s version is entirely too reminiscent of Spears’ video for the single, we here at Lost Gold wonder what fans of the show or of Britney herself would say about the original version of another of her hits, “Oops I Did It Again” – performed by the legendary Louie Armstrong.

First, re-familiarize yourself with Ms. Spears version of the song.

You can hear Mr. Armstrong’s original recording of “Oops I Did It Again” here. I think you’ll be shocked by how similar the two recordings are!

Happy listening!

Alisa Hathaway
October 2010

Know Your Remakes: Coen Bros. Reboot John Wayne Classic "True Grit"

2010-10-27T08:02:00.000-07:00

Hollywood has had a decades-old obsession with the Wild West, though recently the box office has offered more vampire and zombie flicks than good ol' American Westerns. The Coen Brothers, mastermind directors behind modern classics like No Country for Old Men, Fargo, and The Big Lebowski, are serving up a remake of a classic American story with a bit of grit - True Grit, that is. Starring Jeff Bridges (The Big Lebowski, Crazy Heart) and Matt Damon (the Bourne trilogy, The Departed), the film is set for a Christmas release. Check out the trailer:

If the guns and adventurous terrain didn't clue you in, then the Johnny Cash-propelled soundtrack MUST give you an idea that this film will be, in a word, badass. And how could it not be, with Jeff Bridges reprising the role originally played by John Wayne? Admittedly, the original 1969 flick had a bit less grit, but you can judge for yourself.

But hey, that was the 60s. In the two months we have to suffer until the new film's release, I highly recommend viewing the original, as well as getting into the True Grit spirit by picking up classic Wild Western music. Perhaps some Bob Wills? He and His Texas Playboys should set the mood for you until December 25th roles around. So in the meantime, sit back, brush up on your John Wayne flicks, and enjoy some Western Swing brought to you by Lost Gold Records.

Happy listening!

Alisa Hathaway
October 2010

Bob Wills & His Texas Playboys available for digital download here!

In the Spirit of Bob Wills and Django...

2010-10-25T07:23:00.000-07:00

Here is a review by the Guardian of The Hot Club of Cowtown album titled What Makes Bob Holler. Hot Club's unique music is inspired by the jaunty Western Swing of Bob Wills and His Texas Playboys as well as the legendary gypsy jazz guitar of Django Reinhardt.

To experience the rowdiest sounds of the old West, visit here.

For a taste of European jazz with Django, go here!

And here's a track from Bob to get you jazzed up for Cowtown! Alternately, you can spend some time with Django.

Now go forth, with your newfound knowledge of the roots of Western swing!

Alisa Hathaway
October 2010

Classic Roots Jazz Presents Obscure Gems: The Music of Eddie South

2010-10-20T11:13:00.000-07:00

Lost Gold Record’s sister label, DMusic Records, is proud to present its latest release, Eddie South: Classic Roots Jazz Violin. The Classic Roots series showcases seminal talent that hybridized emerging and traditional genres of the 20^th century. Eddie South was a classically trained violinist. He made a name for himself, however, as a crossover success in the jazz scene. He infused his jazz performances with classical, gypsy jazz, and country influences. He is remembered as a technically gifted innovator of jazz violin. The evidence of this title is amply supplied in this next installment of the DMusic’s ongoing series of important retrospectives.

South, raised in Louisiana, Missouri, relocated to attend Chicago Music School. After graduating he played in several Chicagoland jazz outfits. Although observers of his prodigious talent would have expected him to achieve notoriety as a classical violinist, universal racism denied black musicians such options. In the more adaptable and accepting jazz world, Eddie South flourished.

He toured Europe twice, where Django Reinhardt invited him to several recording sessions. He also recorded with Stephane Grappeli. In America he maintained a lucrative gigging career, performing across the country with his famous Alabamian Quintet. His gigs were primarily in New York, Los Angeles, and especially Chicago. He also recorded several radio sessions.

Though he was never without work, he never achieved much commercial success and his career remains in relative obscurity. Therefore, snooty jazz enthusiasts, this artist is essential to add to your collection!

This compilation hosts fifteen tracks spanning Eddie South’s most successful years as a jazz musician. (1927-1941) The album features collaborations with other artists including Django and singer-actress Ginny Sims, Los Angeles radio station sessions with his Quintet, and an expressive performance of Austrian composer Fritz Keisler’s “Praeludium and Allegro.”

Eddie South: Classic Roots Jazz Violin is available for digital download on Amazon, iTunes and other online music providers.

You can purchase the album here.

Happy Listening!

Alisa Hathaway

October 2010

Upcoming Philly Rhythm Kings show!

2010-10-20T09:40:00.000-07:00

Mark your calendars - everybody here at DMusic and Lost Gold Records hopes to see you there!

Music of Boardwalk Empire

2010-10-04T07:18:00.001-07:00

HBO’s fledgling series “Boardwalk Empire” is taking off with the winds of history under its wings. Working shoulder to shoulder, historians, archivalists and producers cobbled together a staggeringly, compellingly detailed duplication of Prohibition-era Atlantic City. Art departments got deep and dusty researching American antiquity, but an unfortunate void in historical audio record nearly overcame music supervisor Randall Poster and his team.

In an interview last May, Mr. Poster described his team’s archaeological, nearly necromantic, effort to recreate the unrecorded music of nickeldeons, the first popular cinemas. Without of single note of it recorded to wax, the music department became band leaders, hiring musicians to perform from the original sheet music. No one knew what they had to work with until they heard it performed for the first time, said Mr. Poster.

Check out more Early 20^th Century Classic music from Lost Gold Records here.

Todd Taylor Fires It Up

2010-09-27T11:04:00.000-07:00

Lost Gold artist Todd Taylor turns up the heat for Firefox as part of the popular Internet browser’s video campaign demonstrating high-speed performances.

Todd gives us mind-warpingly concise proof of his title, World’s Fastest Banjo Player, with a hot minute’s worth of fiddling.

TODAY: GYPSY JAZZ TAKES RUSSIA!

2010-09-22T09:19:00.000-07:00

Image courtesy of www.quecumbar.co.uk

The first ever International Gypsy Jazz Festival is going on today, September 22^nd, in Moscow, allowing leading musicians to showcase their various talents. The Moscow International Performing Arts Center is hosting the event, headed up by an Artistic Director, award-winning French guitarist Frederic Belinsky. Musicians such as French violinist Didier Lookwood and Dutch guitarist Stochelo Rosenberg are also on hand to perform.

Gypsy jazz was born in Paris in the 1930s. Internationally, this energetic style of jazz is better known as “jazz manouche” or gypsy swing. It was the first type of non-American jazz to receive any recognition. The popularity of the genre is survived by the legacy of guitarist Django Reinhardt.

At today’s international gypsy jazz gathering, artists will surely to pay tribute to this celebrated musician and the humble cultural roots of this unique style of music.

For more information on the International Gypsy Jazz Festival in Moscow, click here.

For more information on Django Reinhardt, click here.

And if you’d like to hear Reinhardt’s gypsy jazz, head here or enjoy this video!

Alisa Hathaway
September 2010

A Taste of Bob Wills & His Texas Playboys

2010-09-20T10:23:00.000-07:00

Here are a few videos showcasing the Western Swing retro sound of this week's featured artist at Lost Gold Records and DMusic.

These songs and more are now available from the album Classic Roots Western Swing: Bob Wills & His Texas Playboys Vol. 1 and 2.

Get it on iTunes HERE!

Also, check out a Lost Gold sample playlist on Soundcloud HERE.

Happy Listening.

"What a Wonderful World" Songwriter George David Weiss Dies.

2010-08-25T07:42:00.000-07:00

Manhattan's own George David Weiss passed away in his home of New Jersey at the age of 89.

The famous songwriter is credited for great songs such as "Can't Help Falling in Love" and "What A Wonderful World". Weis has worked with the best in the business including Perry Como, Ella Fitzgerald and Sammy Davis Jr.

Weis was inducted into the songwriters hall of fame in 1984, he was the president of the Songwriters Guild of America from 1982 to 2000.

Remember Weis's hit recordings from Perry Como and Louis Armstrong

Sisters of Swing

2010-06-16T10:35:00.000-07:00

Lost Gold Artist the Andrews Sisters have their own musical: “Sisters of Swing”. In this “rabidly contagious” live production you can follow the sisters Patty, Maxene, and LaVerne Andrews from their early days on the road through their rise as female stars to breaking-up. The Andrews Sisters had more Top Ten hits than the Beatles or Elvis and sold over 90 million records, nine of which went gold. The musical’s score covers over 20 of their most famous songs that will undoubtedly leave the audience with proof why the Andrews Sisters are still one of the best selling female vocal groups of all time.

For tour dates click here

Korey Herndon
June 2010

Bing on Broadway

2010-06-08T12:15:00.000-07:00

Another gift available to collectors - Bing on Broadway - which features all rare and unreleased material featuring Bing taking on Broadway hits from such musicals as South Pacific, Damn Yankees, Can-Can, My Fair Lady, and much more.
Bing's distinct vocals help tackle these classics in his own style, which he executes perfectly. Bing treats his listeners with his smooth, baritone voice and enough swagger to keep audiences wanting more. Bing showcases his remarkable talent through using improvisational lyrics and jazzy phrasing in his more upbeat songs like, "Swanee" and "Carolina in the Morning."

Crosby’s charisma translates well on Broadway and one can really hear his love and care for each performance he gave in each track. Collectors’ Choice does a fine job by carefully selecting and ordering the track arrangements to keep the listener wanting to keep spinning this album several more times.
Make sure to check out Bing Crosby's Kraft shows brought to you by Lost Gold Records!

100 Year Anniversary for Music Great Artie Shaw

2010-05-25T10:37:00.000-07:00

On May 23rd the music world celebrated 100 years of Artie Shaw and his inspiration to big band music in America.

Arthur Jacob Arshawsky used music as an escape from his life in Connecticut. He left his family as soon as he got his first saxophone and taught himself to play. Artie Shaw moved on to be one of the most popular musicians of his time. He made his break with Cole Porter's "Begin the Beguine". After that, his career took off. He hired Billie Holiday to be the first black singer to tour with a white band in 1938.

Artie Shaw became a media phenomenon. He was known for dating actresses and models during the 1940s. He was making more money than others in the business by the young age of 30. At the age of 44, Shaw made a trip to Spain for 5 years. He came back to the states and made the tough decision to end his music career. After all of his music success, he spent the last years of his life writing memoirs. Shaw died in 2004 at the age of 94.

"I've done things that nobody has ever done before," Shaw said. "And if you think that's easy, try it."Artie Shaw.

Lena Horne Dies at age 92.

2010-05-10T07:22:00.000-07:00

Legendary singer and actress Lena Mary Calhoun Horne died on Sunday May 9th at the age of 92. The famous singer is most noted for her breakthrough fame as a female African American singer. During the 1940s Horne was the first black woman performer to appear on-screen as a lead actress.

Lena Horne made her mark in the entertainment industry performing next to fellow legends such as Bing Crosby, Perry Como and Frank Sinatra. She led a successful career filled with Grammy Awards and movie success. She has gone on to inspire some of today's most famous musicians such as Janet Jackson and Alicia Keys.

"I'm free. I no longer have to be a 'credit.' I don't have to be a symbol to anybody; I don't have to be a first to anybody. I don't have to be an imitation of a white woman that Hollywood sort of hoped I'd become. I'm me, and I'm like nobody else." Lena Horne 1998.

Grand Ole Opry Hit Hard by Flooding

2010-05-05T10:03:00.000-07:00

Heavy flooding in Nashville, TN has forced the Grand Ole Opry to close it's doors temporarily. The record breaking rains cause the local Cumberland River to raise over 10 feet. The famous venue has several feet of water flooding it's space and posing a serious threat to it's old stage. The Grand Ole Opry remains the most prestigous country venues in the country. It's home to some of America's most famous country icons including Carrie Underwood, Patsy Cline, Garth Brooks and Dolly Parton.

But as they say "the show must go on" and the Grand Ole Opry house will still be having their shows at other Nashville venues until the damage is taken care of.

Gypsy Jazz Legend: Django Reinhardt

2010-04-30T09:04:00.000-07:00

Django Reinhardt remains one of the world’s most celebrated and respected gypsy jazz
guitarists. Born in Belgium in 1910, he grew up in a gypsy encampment just outside of Paris. It was here that he discovered his talent for music at an early age.

His life and career were almost cut short when a tragic fire ripped through his family’s caravan leaving the aspiring musician with two partially paralyzed fingers. He
would overcome this disability and develop a new style of playing that would become his signature sound.

In 1934, Reinhardt formed the first all-string jazz band known as the Quintette du Hot Club de France alongside French violinist, Stephane Grappelli. Many of these classic tracks are featured on the Classic Roots Jazz collection currently available from our sister label, DMusic Records. Be sure to head here to check them out.

Today, many of Reinhardt’s compositions are widely considered to be jazz standards.

Congress Honors Country Music

2009-11-04T09:02:00.000-08:00

A new resolution has just been passed by Washington D.C. this recent week. This new resolution has nothing to do with healthcare, the war, or the economy, but rather country music. Yes, that’s right, Congress has acknowledged the major influence country music has made on American music and our country as whole, by giving it the recognition it deserves.

Florida Rep. Cliff Steams, who proposed the resolution, states, “Country music traces its roots to the folk tradition of the British Isles and the Celts of central and western Europe. However, here in the United States, early immigrants, as well as African slaves, contributed to a new, distinct style of music that continued to develop through the 18th and 19th centuries…The history of country music is the history of our country.” (CMT) The resolution goes on to mention country music legends Willie Nelson, and Elvis Presley, as well the celebrated Grand Ole Opry and the impact these forces have made.

It’s hard to deny these assertions when looking at some of the records country artists have broken over the years. Garth Brooks, having sold over 128,000,000 albums, is the top selling solo artist in United States history. (Library of Congress) Taylor Swift is breaking records as we speak, having just earned top honors as the artist with the longest-charting album on Billboard’s Top 200 charts. (Billboard)

We at Lost Gold Records are very excited about this new declaration, having a great number of country music artists in our catalogue. From big names like Dolly Parton, to rising stars like Todd Taylor, who is currently making his mark in country music today.

Kaitlin Southron

November 2009

The Grand Ole Opry Commemorates 84 Years

2009-10-21T07:59:00.001-07:00

The Grand Ole Opry is celebrating its 84^th birthday this month. Established in 1925 and starting out as a simple radio broadcast, the Grand Ole Opry has since become one of the most influential forces in country music today.

The building has become a world famous tourist attraction in Nashville, Tenn. Every year, the Opry holds one the biggest shows showcasing some of the most significant country music stars. The likes of Loretta Lynn, Dolly Parton, Garth Brooks, Carrie Underwood, and Todd Taylor have all performed and made their mark at the Grand Ole Opry.

This October, the Opry continues its tradition with a month long birthday celebration featuring various renowned country musicians performing each day. It’s still not too late to purchase tickets and join in on the festivities!

Kaitlin Southron

October 2009

Lost Gold Records Podcasts!

2009-10-19T08:22:00.000-07:00

Lost Gold Records has now published our fifth Podcast episode of many to come. Our podcasts are available on our website and on iTunes.

Our Rock Podcast features more contemporary, popular rock songs from Lost Gold Records artists. Listen to Rock Island and Mike Kennedy and Horsepower, bands that have helped to raise the bar for up-and-coming rock artists in the industry.

Lost Gold Records 3rd Podcast Episode featuring Music News is now available. Check our the Music News Podcast and download it on iTunes for free! You can subscribe to our Podcasts on iTunes or listen to them online.
Hear exclusive tracks by Dolly Parton, Patsy Cline, The Andrews Sisters as well as local artist, Jonathan M ile s Freeman.

Lost Gold Records 2nd installment of our Podcast is also available. It is our first V-Disc Podcast! Listen to rare music from the famous Victory Discs!

Or check out our Independence Day Podcast, our first ever, released just in time for the 4th of July celebrations to begin!

"Five Guys Named Moe" Back on Stage

2009-10-07T07:28:00.000-07:00

Five Guys Named Moe, the Tony-nominated Broadway musical featuring the music of Louis Jordan, will be revived back on stage at the Casa Mañana Theatre in Fort Worth, TX.

Billy Porter, who appeared in the original Broadway cast, is responsible for bringing the act back to stage as he is directing this time around. The cast includes renowned gospel singer Zebulon Ellis as “Big Moe”, Bryan Terrell Clark as “Four-Eyed Moe”, Jesse Nager as “No Moe”, Michael Kilgore as “Eat Moe”, Ron Kellum as “Little Moe”, and Ken Robinson as “No Max”.

Audiences will be pleased to hear some of Louis Jordan’s greatest hits including, “Is You Is or Is You Ain’t My Baby,” “Caldonia,” “Let the Good Times Roll,” and “Knock Me a Kiss.”

Tickets are now on sale and the show will run from October 20-25. Listen to the tunes that inspired the musical on Louis Jordan's exclusive V-Disc available on Lost Gold Records.

Kaitlin Southron

October 2009

Levon Helm Band Tours with Black Crowes

2009-09-25T07:36:00.000-07:00

The Black Crowes are back again on their 2009 tour, “Stuck Inside Utopia”. Touring alongside them is the Levon Helm Band, who opened up for the Crowes just this past month in Boston, New York, and Atlantic City.

The Black Crowes just released their newest album, “Before the Frost…”, on Sept. 1. The band recorded the album at Levon Helm’s own personal studio in Woodstock, NY. It features 11 tracks all performed and recorded live in front of an intimate fan-based audience. It follows up last year’s album, “Warpaint”, which was recorded at Levon Helm’s Woodstock barn as well.

The drummer of the long-standing folk country band, Levon Helm takes pride in his timber-framed home built studio located alongside a forest lake in the Catskill Mountains. For over forty years, Helm has hosted a long list of musicians in his barn studio, including his own band. The Levon Helm Band takes part in a tradition every year called the “Midnight Ramble”, where they set out to play a whole night of music for the fans. They’re set to play their next “Ramble” on Oct. 10. You can purchase tickets for this one night event here, or you can get a taste of the band’s music here.

Kaitlin Southron

September 2009

Eco-Friendly Music

2009-09-11T12:15:00.000-07:00

Many bands, concert venues, and festivals seem to be going green lately. Performers are starting to become increasingly aware of the importance of sustainability, reducing carbon emissions, and fairer treatment of the land and animals on our planet. Companies, bands and concert venues that can be considered “green,” are those that do their best to offset their energy use 100% and to use sustainable products. They are recognizing the impact their tour buses, amps, and spotlights are having on the environment and they are also recognizing the impact of their fans and how they feel about these issues.

Sustainable festivals include Bonnaroo, TN, Clearwater, NY, and Rothbury, MI. Our local Philadelphia Folk Festival even does its share by recycling aluminum cans, discouraging waste, and using water stations to reduce the use of bottled water. The Rothbury Festival gives priority camping sites to attendees who don’t bring cars, use 100% recycled paper for their posters and tickets, and use solar power for amps and lighting.

There are also quite a few bands who are trying to reduce the negative impact they can have on the environment and make others aware of their responsibility to live sustainably. Cloud Cult, Barenaked Ladies, Jack Johnson, Thom Yorke of Radiohead, KT Tunstall, Green Day, U2, Pearl Jam and The Roots are just a few of the many bands that are participating in eco-friendly practices. These bands use 100% recycled material for posters and tee-shirts, donate money to charities, plant trees to offset their carbon emissions, support organizations like the Natural Resources Defense Council, and take part in many other activities to try and be more environmentally friendly. Some bands even use old jewel cases to distribute their CDs instead of having more made.

Lost Gold Records is also trying to help reduce waste by going digital with our music catalog to significantly reduce the amount of CDs we produce. When we do have to make a CD, we use stickers instead of shrink-wrap on our jewel cases. Lost Gold Records knows it is important to do the little things like recycling at the office and advertising online instead of using fliers helps to decrease waste. Bands and other members of the music and entertainment industries need to realize the impact we have on the environment by living and entertaining sustainably.

By Katelyn Petherbridge

September 2009

World's Newest Reggae Icon

2009-09-09T08:52:00.001-07:00

Luciano, Jamaican roots reggae singer, scored his first big hit in 1993 off his debut album “After All” with the single “Shake It Up Tonight”, a cover of the R&B classic by Cheryl Lyn. In that same year it became the number one reggae hit in the

United Kingdom

Luciano has continued to release hits throughout the 1990s in the reggae variety including “Its Me Again Jah”, “Your World and Mine”, “Lord Give Me Strength”, and “Sweep Over My Soul”. These songs restrain from delving out the usual dancehall beats of the time, and rather commit to relaying a more honest and spiritual message. In 1997, he released the single, “Messenger”, which in turn became his new nickname, or as he is sometimes referred to as “Jah Messenjah”.

Luciano was born on October 20, 1964, in the small rural community of Davey Town, Jamaica. Originally given the name Jepther Washington McClymont, Luciano was the seventh of nine children. As he grew older in the 1980s, Luciano moved to Kingston in hopes of beginning a music career. He fluctuated between recording companies for several years while making a living as an upholsterer. During this time his first producer and mentor, Homer Harris, suggested that he change his given name to give him more of a stage presence.

Luciano continues to release albums today through LionI Records and has received a variety of awards and nominations for his work. In 2001, Luciano’s “A New Day” was nominated for a Grammy award for Best Reggae Album. On October 15, 2007, he received the Jamaican Order of Distinction for his influential role in the reggae music scene.

In addition to songs of his own, Luciano’s albums also feature a variety of covers of popular artists including Nina Simone’s “Sinnerman”, Cat Stevens’ “Peace Train”, and John Lennon’s “Imagine”.

In tribute to the recent passing of Michael Jackson, Luciano has released a cover of the single, "We Are The World" under DMusic Records and LionI Records. Through the collaboration of Michael Jackson and Lionel Richie, the 1985 hit showcased over 40 popular recording artists of the time in efforts to raise money for hunger and AIDS relief charities in Africa. Luciano has taken this enduring tune and transformed it into his own personal style of a soulful reggae solo.

By Kaitlin Southron
September 2009

Philadelphia Folk Festival is a Hit in 2009

2009-08-24T08:32:00.001-07:00

The Philadelphia Folk Festival began in 1962 and is known as the oldest running folk festival in the country. In 2009, even with the excessive heat and sun, the 3-day festival was still as popular as ever.

Popular bands such as The Decemberists, Iron and Wine, The Del McCoury Band and The Derek Trucks Band were at the show this year, bringing fans from all over the area to experience the folk festival.

One folk festival attendee, Troy Byker, was really pleased with the way the festival turned out and enjoyed his first experience at the Philadelphia Folk Festival. Byker said that his favorite performers at the festival this year were the Del McCoury Band, a popular bluegrass band, and Caravan of Thieves, an acoustic string band. Byker also thought that The Decemberists performed well and was happy to see lead singer, Colin Meloy, a friend from Troy Byker's college.

The Lewis Brothers were another popular bluegrass band that played at the festival. Fiddle player for the band, Larry Feldman, and friend Eric Bazillian, significant song writer, musician and member of The Hooters are some other artists that attended the festival.

Overall the Festival was a hit and everyone who attended it enjoyed the experience. Mark your calendar for the 49th annual Folk Festival next year from August 20-22, 2010.

And learn more about the Philadelphia Folk Festival at their website.

By Katelyn Petherbridge

August 2009

Duke Ellington’s $150 Cognac is Apparently Not All That Jazz

2009-08-17T08:30:00.000-07:00

On August 6^th , 2009 Duke Ellington’s grandson, Edward K. Ellington II, and the Ellington Estate, executed by Paul Ellington, filed a law suit against the makers of Duke Ellington XO Cognac, which was introduced in 2006 by Harbrew Imports, LTD.

The packaging depicts the face and signature of Duke Ellington, a highly influential American Jazz musician and composer. According to the Estate, Harbrew Imports, LTD. did not get permission to use the image or signature of Duke Ellington on the packing or the bottle and Ellington’s Estate commented, saying that they “once attempted to negotiate with [the estate] ... but no agreement was ever reached between the parties¹."

According to the Bureau National Interprofessionnel du Cognac there are three official quality grades of cognac, which are VS (Very Special), VSOP (Very Special, Old Pale), and, the highest quality, XO (Extra Old). The Duke Ellington cognac is a 20-year-old XO blend, and is being sold at $150 dollars for a 750ml bottle.

The Estate and family of the late Duke Ellington are suing for all of the profits from sales of the Duke Ellington XO Cognac. Despite the cognac being a limited release, the high price of one small bottle of this elusive cognac may lead to a rather large lawsuit.

Support Duke Ellington and his estate by buying these classic Duke Ellington Tunes.

By Katelyn Petherbridge

August 2009

A Reggae Tribute to Michael Jackson by Luciano

2009-07-29T08:20:00.000-07:00

Earlier this summer the world was taken aback by the sudden and tragic death of legendary artist and performer, Michael Jackson. In the past month, as everyone has slowly recovered from the shock of his death, Michael Jackson fans have been searching for and creating ways to honor his memory and keep his music alive for the next generation.

It seems that many artists in the reggae world have sought to give Michael Jackson’s songs new meaning and depth, while honoring the late King of Pop. Among Michael Jackson tribute covers there are Tarrus Riley’s “Human Nature” and Shinehead’s “Billie Jean” as well as Luciano’s “We are the World.”Luciano. “We are the World,” one of Michael Jackson’s more meaningful songs that he wrote along with Lionel Richie for the USA for Africa Foundation, has been reborn as a reggae tribute to Michael Jackson by renowned reggae artist,

The “We are the World” reggae cover is being released by Dmusic Productions and LionI Recordings and has already begun to cause a stir on YouTube. Fans have left comments saying that this version is “Better than the original!” Michael Jackson’s lyrics easily lend themselves to the humanitarian message of reggae songs, and the smooth, Jamaican style of Luciano’s music seems to take the song even further into its original role of benefiting those in need. DMusic and LionI records will be releasing a t-shirt dedicated to Michael Jackson, and with the purchase of a t-shirt customers will be able to receive two MP3 versions of the song. A portion of the proceeds will also be going to charity in honor of the late King of Pop.

Buy a Michael Jackson Commemorative Tee-Shirt and get 2 MP3s of the reggae version of "We Are the World" free at Bestreggae.com

By Katelyn Petherbridge
July 29, 2009

Katelyn@dmusic.com

James Thomas Nesbitt; country music pioneer; 75

2008-09-15T08:00:00.000-07:00

By Otis R. Taylor Jr.

MCT NEWS SERVICE

December 6, 2007

James Thomas “Jim” Nesbitt Jr., who shared the road and dusty honky-tonk stages with the likes of Conway Twitty, Stonewall Jackson and Dottie West, died Nov. 29 at his home in Florence, S.C. He was 75.

The comedian, DJ and country musician was born Dec. 1, 1931, in Bishopville.

Mr. Nesbitt's career reached its height in the 1960s when he was a rare hybrid performer, a musician who could carry a tune and tell a good joke.

He began his career with WFEG in 1949 before moving to WJMX. He found a home at WAGS, where he recorded his first hit, “Please Mr. Kennedy,” in 1961. It reached No. 1 on Billboard's country chart.

“Running Bare,” “A Tiger in My Tank” and “Truckin' Cat With Nine Wives” are other Nesbitt favorites.

Jim Jenkins, the owner of WAGS, said the station still gets requests for Mr. Nesbitt's music. In October, the station honored him at WAGSFEST, its annual music festival.

“I got to visit with him a little bit,” Jenkins said. “I always liked him as an artist.”

As a teen in Maryland, Jenkins was a fan of “Lookin' For More in '64,” one of several “year” songs Mr. Nesbitt wrote with sarcastic, poor-man wit.

“It was one of the songs you remember,” Jenkins said. “I never knew who did it and I bought WAGS radio and asked 'Who did that song?' ”

Bruce Elrod of Cashbox magazine, a chart magazine similar to Billboard, said Mr. Nesbitt scored 13 Billboard hits and 15 Cashbox hits. In 1999, Elrod and Lost Gold Records, a South Carolina label, released “The Best of Jim Nesbitt,” a collection of country comedy songs. Another album, “Phone Call From the Devil,” was rereleased in 2000.

“He was a South Carolina legend,” Elrod said. “Jim was actually the king of country comedy. And he was clean.”

In other words, without Mr. Nesbitt and fellow country comedian Jerry Clower, there might not be Jeff Foxworthy or Larry the Cable Guy.

Anne Rochelle, a bass player in Mr. Nesbitt's band, said she was able to meet a lot of the great traditional country singers, such as Sonny James, Marty Robbins and Twitty, on the road with Mr. Nesbitt.

"We played on the package tours,” she said. “I got to know a lot of them.”

Tim Nesbitt will remember a good father who was an irrepressible jokester. “He was a normal father other than he always played jokes,” Tim Nesbitt said. “There was never a dull moment. He liked to make people laugh.

“That was his personality all the way to the end.”

About Us

2007-09-14T11:57:00.000-07:00

Lost Gold Records is an independent record label that specializes in rare and hard to find music and recordings from the vaults of record companies, recording studios, and the artists themselves. We feature tracks from established and new artists as well as music from yesteryear that escaped your attention because of tight radio playlists or out of print classics. From Bobby Darin to Patsy Cline to The Quarrymen (early Beatles) to bands from independent websites like DMusic and Soundclick, we have a growing catalogue that will keep you coming back for more. We are not affiliated with the major companies or RIAA. None of our tracks feature DRM, and they are all in 320k hi - resolution mp3 format.