Tag: songs

Funny songs to tickle your ‘humorous’ bone

By Gary Bennett

This article appears in the April 16, 2026 issue of Frederick News-Post’s “72 Hours” entertainment magazine.

Humor is a funny word. (Wait, let me rephrase that.)

The word actually began its long journey meaning something you’d never expect — it derives from the Latin for bodily fluid. Medieval medicine believed the body contained four primary fluids or “humors,” including blood, phlegm and two types of bile, thought to determine temperament. By the 16th century the term broadened to mean one’s moods or whims. Finally, by the late 17th century, humor arrived at its modern meaning: amusing or funny.

Humorist and author Larry Wilde, director of the Carmel Institute of Humor, declared April to be National Humor Month in 1976, which made abundant sense since April 1 had long been established as April Fool’s Day. Thereafter, April 19 was officially named Humorous Day — dedicated to having a good time and finding the bright side of even the toughest situation.

Science has confirmed that laughter is the best medicine. It allows us to breathe in more fresh air, boosts our heart rate, lowers blood pressure and stimulates our lungs and respiratory system. You can even burn calories and release physical tension when you laugh. Laughter strengthens relationships, too — it helps couples stay together longer, enhances parent/child bonding and makes friendships stronger.

So what can you do to get some of this good juju on Humorous Day?

You could binge-watch a great sitcom — “All in the Family,” “Cheers,” “Frasier,” “Everybody Loves Raymond,” “Seinfeld,” “The Andy Griffith Show,” “The Honeymooners” or “I Love Lucy.”

You could watch stand-up on YouTube from Jack Benny, George Carlin, Johnny Carson, Bill Cosby, Rodney Dangerfield, Jackie Gleason, Steve Martin, Eddie Murphy or Richard Pryor.

You could rent a great comedy — the American Film Institute recommends “Animal House,” “Caddyshack,” “Duck Soup,” “Elf,” “Ghostbusters,” “Home Alone,” “M*A*S*H,” “Mrs. Doubtfire,” “National Lampoon’s Vacation,” “Office Space,” “Some Like It Hot,” “Wayne’s World” and “Wedding Crashers.”

Or you could catch a live comedy show — The Comedy Pigs at MET, Comedy Fest at the Weinberg or the Bored Teachers Comedy Tour on April 23.

But for me, there’s nothing better than a great humorous song. Writing one is harder than it looks — that’s why so many “novelty” songs are cringe-worthy. You typically won’t get belly laughs from funny songs, but you will get heartwarming smiles for as long as you care to listen.

Below, I’ve listed some of my favorites alphabetically. Queue them up on your smart speaker for an hour and a half of Humorous Day listening pleasure. Did I miss any of yours?

A BOY NAMED SUE

Johnny Cash, 1969

Country superstar hit gold by going against type in this live, funny performance.

Funny lyric: “But the meanest thing that my daddy ever did / Was before he left, he went and named me Sue.”

COVER OF THE ROLLING STONE

Dr. Hook & the Medicine Show, 1972

Satirical romp that mocks the music industry’s obsession with image and fame.

Funny lyric: “I got a freaky old lady name a Cocaine Katy who embroiders on my jeans / I got my poor old gray-haired daddy drivin’ my limousine.”

EAT IT

“Weird Al” Yankovic, 1984

The king of parodies had several but his best one riffs on Michael Jackson’s “Beat It.”

Funny lyric: “Have some more yogurt / have some more Spam / It doesn’t matter if it’s fresh or canned / Just eat it.”

IF YOU WANNA BE HAPPY

Jimmy Soul, 1963

This No. 1 hit gave dubious advice that marrying an ugly woman is a safe bet.

Funny lyric: “Though her face is ugly, her eyes don’t match / Take it from me, she’s a better catch.”

I’M TOO SEXY

Right Said Fred, 1991

This all-time funniest karaoke-style song pokes fun at bodybuilders.

Funny lyric: “I’m too sexy for my shirt / Too sexy for my shirt / So sexy it hurts.”

IT WASN’T ME

Shaggy, 2000

This cheating anthem is a humorous guide to lying even when caught red-handed.

Funny lyric: “But she caught me on the counter (It wasn’t me) / I even had her in the shower (It wasn’t me.)”

KING TUT

Steve Martin, 1977

Comedy legend first performed this bizarre song on “Saturday Night Live.”

Funny lyric: “When I die, now don’t think I’m a nut / Don’t want no fancy funeral, just one like ole King Tut.”

MAMA TOLD ME NOT TO COME

Three Dog Night, 1970

Naive party-goer is shocked, shocked!, by what he sees at his first wild party.

Funny lyric: “The radio is blastin’, someone’s knockin’ at the door / I’m lookin’ at my girlfriend, she’s passed out on the floor.”

MARGARITAVILLE

Jimmy Buffett, 1977

The king of laid-back island rock gets wasted and half-laments a lost love.

Funny lyric: “I don’t know the reason, stayed here all season / With nothing to show but this brand-new tattoo.”

MY DING-A-LING

Chuck Berry, 1972

Rock ‘n’ roll pioneer had his biggest hit with this sly, double-entendre sing-along.

Funny lyric: “I fell so hard, I heard bells ring / But held onto my ding-a-ling-a-ling”

NO NO SONG

Ringo Starr, 1974

Ex-Beatle delivered a cheekily charming and exasperated anti-drug song.

Funny lyric: “And I said, ‘No, no, no, no, I don’t smoke it no more / I’m tired of waking up on the floor.’”

ONE WEEK

Barenaked Ladies, 1998

The Canadian pop rockers had several mischievous songs. This one tops the list.

Funny lyric: “Like Harrison Ford, I’m getting frantic / Like Sting, I’m tantric / Like Snickers, guaranteed to satisfy”

PURPLE PEOPLE EATER

Sheb Wooley, 1958

A perennial Halloween favorite that topped the charts.

Funny lyric: “But that’s not the reason that I came to land / I wanna get a job in a rock-and-roll band.”

THE STREAK

Ray Stevens, 1974

Of the many “streaking” songs of 1974, this one was at the top.

Funny lyric: “And here he come, right out of the cheap seats, dribbling / Didn’t have on nothing but his Keds.”

TELEPHONE MAN

Meri Wilson, 1977

Lighthearted, double-entendre song lampooning getting a phone installed.

Funny lyric: “Hey baby, I’m your telephone man / Show me where you want it and I’ll put it where I can.”

UNEASY RIDER

Charlie Daniels, 1973

A pot-smoking, long-haired hippie somehow escapes intact from a no-nonsense Southern bar.

Funny lyric: “Well they all started laughin’ and I felt kinda sick / And I knew I’d better think of somethin’ pretty quick / So I jes’ reached out an’ kicked ol’ green-teeth right in the knee.”

Gary Bennett is a longtime Frederick resident who spends his time hiking, biking, volunteering and providing childcare for grandchildren. He is married and retired from his career as a nonprofit marketing executive.

Grass Roots will bring timeless pop hits to the Weinberg

By Gary Bennett

The Grass Roots, 2026.

This article appears in the April 9, 2026 issue of Frederick News-Post’s “72 Hours” entertainment magazine.

A question for baby boomers: What do ‘60s rock bands the Grass Roots and the Monkees have in common? Give up? They are two of the most successful but rare American bands formed not by their members, but by studio executives looking to cash in on a musical trend. Organic groups like the Beatles and Rolling Stones would shudder at the thought, but it worked out just fine for both.

In the case of the Monkees, the record label hoped they would become the American Beatles. The Monkees did well commercially and even critically at times, but of course no band could be the Beatles. In the case of the Grass Roots, Dunhill Records wanted to assemble a band to catch the budding folk-rock craze in 1965. Staff songwriters came up with the songs, an audition was held and soon the Grass Roots were born. The name was meant to connote ordinary people doing extraordinary things. And they sure did.

But let’s get one thing out of the way first. Although none of the original Grass Roots members are in the current lineup, it’s not fair to call them a tribute band. They are the Grass Roots. Three of the four members have been in the band for over 30 years, each personally recruited by founding member and lead vocalist Rob Grill. Grill played with the current lineup until his death in 2011 and turned over the name to them. The current members are Dusty Hanvey, Larry Nelson, Joe Dougherty and Mark Dawson. Critics agree they have stayed true to the songs and consistently earn good reviews.

You can catch the Grass Roots live at the Weinberg Center for the Arts 8 p.m. April 11. The show is part of the Weinberg’s LIVE! Series, celebrating iconic music and exceptional musicianship.

In their day, the Grass Roots were quite successful, reliably producing pleasing pop hits. From 1966 to 1975, they churned out songs that were not too dangerous or outlandish, but just right. Their relatively short run, and the fact that they spanned two different decades without dominating either, was detrimental to their legacy. They were like Three Dog Night and the Guess Who in that regard, just not quite as successful.

Although they never scored a No. 1 hit, the Grass Roots created six or seven instantly recognizable tunes that helped define the late ‘60s and early ‘70s. Their catchy melodies and tight harmonies were good, but their unique brass section really set them apart — a novelty at the time, especially since jazz-rock groups like Chicago had yet to come along. The first few bars of “Let’s Live for Today,” “Midnight Confessions,” “I’d Wait a Million Years,” “Temptation Eyes,” “Sooner or Later” and “Two Divided by Love” always engender a strong response and get fans singing along.

AM radio play was a big factor in the Grass Roots’ success, too. They managed to become a disc jockey favorite and enjoyed frequent listener requests. From 1967 to 1972, the Grass Roots set a record for being on the Billboard chart for 307 consecutive weeks. They have sold over 20 million records worldwide, achieved one platinum album, two gold albums and 13 gold singles among their 20-odd chart hits.

Despite their success, the story of the Grass Roots is chaotic.

The original members who won the audition were all under 18, so their mothers had to sign their recording contracts. Soon after, the young artists — with studio executives calling the shots — compiled an album titled “Where Were You When I Needed You.” The album got little attention and disillusioned the band. Not enamored of folk rock in the first place, the group decided to return to San Francisco and perform the hard rock music they loved. Dunhill shrugged and opted to recruit another Grass Roots band in their place.

The next group of musicians to take the Grass Roots name included Rob Grill as bassist and lead vocalist. Grill became the face and voice of the Grass Roots on all their biggest hits until his death in 2011. In 1967, they put together “Let’s Live for Today” for their first single release. It became an iconic hit, reaching No. 8 on the charts — similar to the Beatles’ “All You Need Is Love” in that the song’s simple, timeless message and catchy hook turned it into a mantra for the youth of the day.

“Midnight Confessions” was next in 1968, shooting up to No. 5 — the highest chart position the group ever achieved. The song features intricate orchestration and a psychedelic organ sequence that makes it memorable. Quite often, when a movie or TV show needs a song to represent the vibe of the late ‘60s, “Midnight Confessions” is it.

In 1969, “I’d Wait a Million Years” became their third big hit, cementing the group as dependable hitmakers and a radio staple for years to come.

In 1970 and 1971, the group did not issue a new album other than a greatest hits compilation, but they did score a few more big singles. Staff songwriters gave them gems like “Baby Hold On,” “Temptation Eyes,” “Sooner or Later” and “Two Divided by Love.”

The group disbanded in 1975, but was restocked under Rob Grill’s guidance in the late 1980s. They no longer recorded but embarked on near-nonstop touring. Since then, the Grass Roots have played thousands of dates across the country to adoring fans.

In December 2015, the Grass Roots were inducted into the American Pop Music Hall of Fame, along with Barbra Streisand, Barry Manilow, Neil Sedaka, the Association, Dion, the Lettermen, Paul Revere and the Raiders, the Temptations and Three Dog Night.

Gary Bennett is a longtime Frederick resident who spends his time hiking, biking, volunteering and providing childcare for grandchildren. He is married and retired from his career as a nonprofit marketing executive.

Breakup songs to drive home the message

By Gary Bennett

If you’re celebrating National Breakup Day on Feb. 21,sorry and good luck.

This article appears in the February 20, 2025, issue of Frederick-News Post’s “72 Hours” entertainment insert.

Valentine’s Day is nice, but because real life happens, Feb. 21 is National Breakup Day. It should be no surprise. It comes only one week after the big day because, you know, love can be fleeting.

This anti-est of Valentine’s Day is sad, sure, but necessary. Who among us has never had trouble ridding ourselves of that certain someone who seems to just hang on and won’t take no for an answer?

Despite your protests, you might need help in this area. Maybe not today and maybe not tomorrow, but the day might come when you’ll find yourself hiding in the bushes rather than spending another evening with Mr. or Ms. Wrong.

Here are my Top 10 Breakup Songs for your life-skills pleasure. I know what you’re thinking, but no, I’m actually happily married. Keep in mind, though, I’m an older guy who enjoys rock and pop tunes from the ‘60s, ‘70s and ’80s, so that’s what you’re getting here.

As I’m sure you know, breakup songs come in two flavors. There are the “I’m so sad we broke up, I’m just going to wallow in it” songs and the “please go away” songs. This list is comprised of the latter. Enjoy your breakup!

1. HIT THE ROAD, JACK

Ray Charles, 1960

This classic from a legendary artist is a verbal jousting match between a frustrated woman and a no-good man.

“Now baby, listen baby, don’t ya treat me this way, ‘cause I’ll be back on my feet someday, don’t care if you do ‘cause it’s understood, you ain’t got no money, you just ain’t no good.”

2. DON’T GO AWAY MAD (JUST GO AWAY)

Motley Crue, 1990

The hard rockers were at their peak with this gleeful, sleeper hit.

“Seasons must change, separate paths, separate ways, girl, don’t go away mad, just go away.”

3. ONE LESS SET OF FOOTSTEPS

Jim Croce, 1973

The mustachioed, blue-collar rocker shows the door to his old squeeze in no uncertain terms.

“If that’s the way that you want it, well that’s the way I want it more, ‘cause there’ll be one less set of footsteps on your floor in the morning.”

4. GO YOUR OWN WAY

Fleetwood Mac, 1977

Lindsey Buckingham wrote the song about his breakup with fellow band member Stevie Nicks.

“Tell me why everything turned around, packing up, shacking up is all you want to do, you can go your own way.”

5. IT’S OVER

Boz Scaggs, 1976

Scaggs writes about a fed-up lover who has had enough … but not really.

“Why can’t you just get it through your head, it’s over, it’s over now, yes, you heard me clearly, now I said it’s over. It’s over now.”

6. IT’S TOO LATE

Carole King, 1971

This classic from the great ‘60s and ‘70s songwriter tries to gently (maybe too gently) explain why their relationship just isn’t working.

“And it’s too late, baby, now it’s too late. Though we really did try to make it, something inside has died, and I can’t hide, and I just can’t take it.”

7. ALREADY GONE

The Eagles, 1974

The most successful American band struck gold with an early hit that declared victory over a failed relationship.

“So oftentimes it happens that we live our lives in chains, and we never even know we have the key, but me — I’m already gone and I’m feelin’ strong.”

8. SMOKE FROM A DISTANT FIRE

Sanford-Townsend Band, 1976

A terrific, rollicking, one-hit wonder song with the best breakup line ever (involving a screen door). It tells the story of an unfaithful girl who is now getting her comeuppance.

“This lying and cryin’ is upsettin’ and gettin’ nowhere. It don’t stack up, so slack up and pack up, I just don’t care. Don’t let the screen door hit you on your way out.”

9. YOU’RE NO GOOD

Linda Ronstadt, 1974

This bluesy version, from early ’70s queen of pop Linda Rondstadt, congratulates herself for finally coming to her senses. She really lets her ex have it.

“Feelin’ better now that we’re through, feelin’ better ‘cause I’m over you. I learned my lesson, it left a scar, now I see how you really are: You’re no good.”

10. RAMBLIN’ MAN

Allman Brothers Band, 1973

These Southern rockers explain they will be leaving soon because it’s in their DNA and can’t be stopped.

“And when it’s time for leavin’, I hope you’ll understand, that I was born a ramblin’ man.”

American R&B and Soul musician and band leader Ray Charles (born Ray Charles Robinson, 1930 – 2004) plays piano as he performs during a JVC Jazz Festival concert at Avery Fisher Hall at Lincoln Center, New York, New York, June 29, 1994. (Photo by Jack Vartoogian/Getty Images)

HONORABLE MENTIONS

• The All American Rejects’ “Gives You Hell”

• Bob Dylan’s “Don’t Think Twice, It’s Alright”

• Greg Kihn Band’s “The Breakup Song”

• J. Geils Band’s “Love Stinks”

• Elton John’s “I’m Still Standing”

• Led Zeppelin’s “Babe I’m Gonna Leave You”

• Marshall Tucker Band’s “Heard it in a Love Song”

• Paul Simon’s “50 Ways to Leave Your Lover”

• Rod Stewart’s “Maggie May”

• Styx’s “Babe”

• Taylor Swift’s “Picture to Burn”

• Carrie Underwood’s “Before He Cheats”

• Gotye’s “Somebody That I Used to Know”

Gary Bennett is a longtime Frederick resident who spends his time hiking, biking, volunteering and providing childcare for grandchildren. He is married and retired from his career as a nonprofit marketing executive.

Sad songs to help weather grief

By Gary Bennett

This article appears in the August 29, 2024 issue of the Frederick News-Post’s “72 Hours” entertainment insert.

In honor of National Grief Awareness Day on Aug. 30, I listened to some of the saddest songs ever written and recorded, trying to pick out the saddest ones of all.

I’ve experienced my own share of grief, like most people my age: parents dying, siblings dying, losing jobs and losing love.

But as a volunteer counselor at Camp Jamie — Hospice of Frederick County’s grief camp for children — I’ve also been privy to the heartbreaking grief of kids who’ve lost parents. Nothing compares to that.

At camp, it always surprises me how effective music therapy is with grieving children. There’s just something about sad music that makes you realize you are not alone in your feelings — that others have experienced what you’re experiencing.

So if you’re experiencing some form of grief right now or just need a good cry, I present to you my top 10 saddest rock songs. Most deal with lost love, but there are some exceptions.

My No. 1 sad song not only features being jilted at the altar but also a father dying and a mother dying of grief because her husband died (“the only man she ever loved”). Suicide is contemplated along with the existence of God. All in about 3 minutes!

1. “ALONE AGAIN (NATURALLY)”

Gilbert O’Sullivan, 1971

This obscure Irish singer somehow penned the saddest No. 1 song I’ve ever heard. Amazingly, he never experienced any of the misfortunes he wrote so evocatively about.

“Left standing in the lurch at a church were people saying, ‘My God, that’s tough. She stood him up. No point in us remaining.’”

2. “MY HEART WILL GO ON”

Celine Dion, 1997

This Oscar-winner for best original song for “Titanic” mourns love lost in the most tragic of circumstances. Who can forget the mournful flute arrangement as Rose recalls Jack slipping away into the icy depths?

“Every night in my dreams, I see you, I feel you. That is how I know you go on.”

3. “TEARS IN HEAVEN”

Eric Clapton, 1992

Clapton’s heartfelt ballad stems from unimaginable pain: mourning his 4-year-old son’s death from a fall from a 53-story building in 1991.

“Would you hold my hand, if I saw you in heaven? Would you help me stand, if I saw you in heaven?”

4. “LANDSLIDE”

Fleetwood Mac, 1975

Written and performed by Stevie Nicks, the song contemplates the regret that comes with getting older and things beginning to slip away.

“But time makes you bolder, even children get older, and I’m gettin’ older, too. I’m gettin’ older, too.”

5. “TRACES OF LOVE”

Classics IV, 1969

This ingenious songwriting mechanism uses souvenirs of a failed love affair to recall the pain.

“Faded photograph, covered now with lines and creases. Tickets torn in half, memories in bits and pieces. Traces of love long ago that didn’t work out right.”

6. “AT SEVENTEEN”

Janis Ian, 1975

This Grammy-winner for best pop female performance brutally depicts a teenage girl’s angst at not fitting in but desperately wanting to.

“To those of us who knew the pain of valentines that never came, and those whose names were never called when choosing sides for basketball.”

7. “CAT’S IN THE CRADLE”

Harry Chapin, 1974

Chapin’s only No. 1 song recounts the sad story of a dad who has no time for his young son growing up, but then the grown-up son turns the tables on his now-elderly dad.

“My son turned 10 just the other day. He said, ‘Thanks for the ball, Dad — come on, let’s play. Can you teach me to throw?’ I said, ‘Not today. I got a lot to do.’ He said, ‘That’s OK.’”

8. “BY THE TIME I GET TO PHOENIX”

Glen Campbell, 1967

This Jimmy Webb-penned classic explores the difficulty in leaving a failed romance when the other person still loves you.

“By the time I make Oklahoma, she’ll be sleepin’. She’ll turn softly and call my name out low, and she’ll cry just to think I’d really leave her, though time and time I’ve tried to tell her so.”

9. “DUST IN THE WIND”

Kansas, 1977

This song, featuring a mournful violin arrangement, regrets the fact that human life, with all of its hopes and dreams, is ultimately meaningless in the grand scheme of things.

“I close my eyes, only for a moment, and the moment’s gone. All my dreams pass before my eyes — a curiosity, dust in the wind. All they are is dust in the wind.”

10. “OPERATOR (THAT’S NOT THE WAY IT FEELS)”

Jim Croce, 1972

This tuneful ballad from the star-crossed, blue-collar rocker uses a fleeting friendship with a compassionate telephone operator to finally accept losing his love.

“Operator, could you help me place this call? ‘Cause I can’t read the number that you just gave me. There’s something in my eyes. You know it happens every time I think about the love I thought would save me.”

HONORABLE MENTIONS

Adele’s “Someone Like You,” The Beatles’ “Yesterday,” The Beatles’ “She’s Leaving Home,” Bee Gees’ “How Can You Mend a Broken Heart,” Eric Carmen’s “All By Myself,” The Carpenters’ “Rainy Days and Mondays,” Johnny Cash’s “Hurt,” Tracy Chapman’s “Fast Car,” John Denver’s “(Sometimes I Feel) Like a Sad Song,” Elton John’s “Empty Garden,” George Jones’ “He Stopped Loving Her Today,” Gladys Knight and the Pips’ “Neither One of Us,” Bobby Goldsboro’s “Honey,” Sinead O’Connor’s “Nothing Compares 2 U,” Roy Orbison’s “Crying,” REM’s “Everybody Hurts,” Snow Patrol’s “Chasing Cars” and Hank Williams’ “I’m So Lonesome I Could Cry.”

Gary Bennett is a longtime Frederick resident who spends his time hiking, biking, volunteering and providing childcare for grandchildren. He is married and retired from his career as a nonprofit marketing executive.

Classic rock favorites to celebrate the dark season

By Gary Bennett

Gordon Lightfoot, 2017

This article appears in the January 18 edition of the Frederick News-Post’s “72 Hours” entertainment insert.

Winter is upon us once again, and unlike my friends to the south, I love it — the chill of the air and the heat of the fireplace.  

I suspect many of you feel the same.

To me, real winter begins right after the holidays. I don’t even consider December to be part of winter.

On Jan. 2, family get-togethers, all the anticipation, celebrations and sparkle of the holiday season are gone. We are left with two full months (or more) of persevering and seeing what we are made of.

And, it’s absolutely invaluable.

There’s something about winter that toughens us and opens our eyes to myriad possibilities. We buckle down. We work hard. We don’t worry about vacations. Days are short. Time is of the essence. When we accomplish something, particularly outdoors, we feel good about ourselves. We feel like we can’t be deterred.

But there can be a melancholy about winter. There’s an overabundance of darkness. The other three seasons seem long ago and far away. Unfortunately, Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) can rear its ugly head with some folks, causing mental and physical ailments.

Still, if you can, try to embrace the season. Embrace the cold. Embrace the melancholy. Spring will come in fits and starts and everything will be renewed again.

Here are my top 17 classic rock songs about winter (or set in the winter) to help get you through, nee, celebrate, the season.

  1. “SONG FOR A WINTER’S NIGHT”
    Gordon Lightfoot, 1967

Warm, caring loner holed up in his cabin, longing for an absent love.
“The lamp is burnin’ low upon my table top, the snow is softly falling, the air is still in the silence of my room, I hear your voice softly calling.”

Sweet, poignant song about losing a love but taking it well.
“It was only a winter’s tale, just another winter’s tale, and why should the world take notice, of one more love that’s failed?”

Longing for the warmth of LA during a cold winter in New York City.
“All the leaves are brown, and the sky is gray, I’ve been for a walk, on a winter’s day.”

Not the same tune as the Moody Blues song above, but Freddie Mercury singing gorgeously of life and beauty as both wind down.
“It’s winter-fall, red skies are gleaming, sea-gulls are flyin’ over, swans are floatin’ by, smoking chimney-tops.”

Quintessential pop tune contemplating the passing of the seasons with a focus on winter.
“But look around, leaves are brown now, and the sky is a hazy shade of winter.”

Song explores longing, isolation and heartbreak—the cold realities of life.
“Cold is the color of crystal, the snow light, that falls from the heavenly skies, catch me and let me dive under, for I want to swim in the pools of your eyes.”

Johnny Mercer lyrics contemplating the pain of growing old and of reliving lost love.
“I should be over it now, I know, it doesn’t matter much how old I grow, I hate to see October go.”

Waiting and yearning for your love for a very long time.
“I waited for you, winterlong, you seem to be where I belong, it’s all illusion anyway.”

Describes a person’s crisis of faith.
“Rhymes they sprang in me, summer sang in me, but summer sings in me no more.”

  1. “WINTER SONG”
      Chris Rea, 2000

A heartwarming song trying to explain the rapture of true love when it’s cold outside.
“If I put my arms around you, turn you in from the storm, from your autumn through winter, darling I’ll keep you warm.”

  1. “ASPENGLOW”
       John Denver, 1970

The wonder of glowing, snowy mountaintops at dawn and dusk.
“As the winter days unfold, hearts grow warmer with the cold, peace of mind is all you know, winter’s gold, Aspenglow.”

  1. “SNOWBOUND”
      Genesis, 1978

Lovely ballad about (somehow!) a peaceful death out in the cold.
“Lay your body down upon the midnight snow, feel the cold of winter in your hair, here in a world of your own, in a casing that’s grown.”

  1. “MY DECEMBER”
      Linkin Park, 2000

Sad story about being away and missing home.
“This is my December, these are my snow-covered dreams, this is me pretending, this is all I need.”

      14.         “WINTERTIME LOVE”
                     The Doors, 1968
A plea for love and warmth in the cold season.
“Wintertime winds blow cold to season, fallin’ in love, I’m hopin’ to be, wind is so cold, is that the reason? Keeping you warm, your hands touching me.”

  1.          “SNOWBIRD”
              Anne Murray, 1970

Peppy song about yearning for youth in the twilight of life.
“Beneath this snowy mantle, cold and clean, the unborn grass lies waiting, for its coat to turn to green, the snowbird sings the song he always sings.”

  1.          “WINTER”
             The Rolling Stones, 1973

Song bemoans the realities of the season and hopes for spring love.
“And it sure been a cold, cold winter, and the wind ain’t been blowin’ from the south, it’s sure been a cold, cold winter, And a lotta love is all burned out.”

  1.           “WINTER SONG”
              Bruce Springsteen, 1973

Slow, moody “acquired-taste” song that drips with sexual innuendo cloaked in seasonal comparisons.
“Summer’s sweet and she brings me water, but give me winter, that old icy whore, summer lies meek and follows orders, winter cries “Me!” and pulls you through the door.”

The Moody Blues, 1980

All I Have to Do is Dream: Best Classic Rock Songs about Dreams

By Gary Bennett

Phil and Don — the Everly Brothers.

This article appears in the September 28, 2023, issue of Frederick News-Post’s “72 Hours” entertainment insert.

I had a dream last night.

I realize this probably doesn’t sound unusual to you. But, to me, it was. I hardly ever dream. At least I don’t think so.

Scientists say most people dream but don’t remember them. I probably fall into that category. Scientists also say the purpose of dreaming is to “help analyze and consolidate memories, a process where recent, learned experiences are converted into long-term storage.” I guess that that makes sense but still doesn’t explain the sensation of falling out of an airplane, showing up at work naked or snake monsters.

Naturally, last night’s dream got me to thinking about classic rock songs about dreaming. Why? Because I love classic rocks songs and because popular music tends to cover all the esoteric feelings and experiences we all share. If listening to love songs can help make you a more loving or romantic person, which I believe, why can’t songs about dreams make you a “dreamier” person?

Unfortunately, it seems that most songs about dreams are not really about dreams at all, at least not in the sleeping sense. No, they are more about conscious dreaming and trying to reach your full potential.

Still, I think I’ll give it a try tonight by listening to my top ten classic rock songs about dreams and see if I can repeat last night’s performance.

10. “DAYDREAM BELIEVER”
The Monkees, 1968
Tuneful, repetitive song about the sweet boredom of suburban life delivered up by the fun loving boys of ‘60s bubblegum rock.
“Cheer up Sleepy Jean, Oh, what can it mean, To a daydream believer, And a homecoming queen?”

9. “DREAMS”
Fleetwood Mac, 1977
Haunting melody and cryptic lyrics by Stevie Nicks poking fun at her cheating boyfriend and bandmate at the time, Lindsey Buckingham.
“Thunder only happens when it’s raining, Players only love you when they’re playing.”

8. “YOUR WILDEST DREAMS”
The Moody Blues, 1986
Thoughtful lyrics and upbeat groove exploring whether a lost love ever thinks about you “in their wildest dreams.”
“Once upon a time, Once when you were mine, I remember skies, Reflected in your eyes.”

7. “BOULEVARD OF BROKEN DREAMS”
Green Day, 2004
Moody, reflective song covering heartbreaking loneliness and lost dreams.
“I walk this empty street, On the boulevard of broken dreams, Where the city sleeps, And I’m the only one, And I walk alone.”

6. “ENTER SANDMAN”
Metallica, 1991
These heavy metal rockers serve up a terrifying lullaby with an unforgettable guitar lick. Have to blast this one full volume for the best effect.
“Say your prayers little one, Don’t forget, my son, To include everyone, I tuck you in, warm within, Keep you free from sin.”

5. “#9 DREAM”
John Lennon, 1974
A soothing, haunting, spiritual song that reportedly sprang from a real dream. One of his best.
“Dream, dream away, Magic in the air, Was magic in the air?, I believe, yes, I believe, More I cannot say, On a river of sound.”

4. “DREAM ON”
Aerosmith, 1973
This timeless masterpiece with the unforgettable opening chords implores us to live for today because tomorrow is not promised.
“Every time that I look in the mirror, All these lines on my face getting clearer, The past is gone, It went by like dusk to dawn.”

3. “CALIFORNIA DREAMIN’”
The Mamas and the Papas, 1965
A lovely call and response song with impeccable harmonies about longing for something you can’t have.
“All the leaves are brown, And the sky is gray, I went for a walk, On a winter’s day, I’d be safe and warm, If I was in LA.”

2. “DAYDREAM”
Lovin’ Spoonful, 1966
A carefree, feel-good song about being so much in love, it’s like a daydream. Terrific tenor vocal from John Sebastian.
“I’ve been having a sweet dream, I been dreamin’ since I woke up today, It’s starring me and my sweet dream, ‘Cause she’s the one makes me feel this way.”

  1. “ALL I HAVE TO DO IS DREAM”
    Everly Brothers, 1958
    This sweet, classic song extols the virtues of dreaming to be reunited with the one you love. Impeccable harmonies introduced America to this classic duo.
    “When I want you in my arms, When I want you and all your charms, Whenever I want you, All I have to do is dream, dream, dream.”

Honorable Mentions:
Jim Croce’s “Dreamin’ Again,” Crowded House’s ”Don’t Dream It’s Over,” Bobby Darin’s “Dream Lover,” The Eurythmics’ “Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This),” Heart’s “These Dreams,” Billy Joel’s “The River of Dreams,” Gordon Lightfoot’s “Summertime Dream,” Kenny Nolan’s “I Like Dreamin’,” Billy Ocean’s “Get Out of My Dreams, Get Into My Car,” Elvis Presley’s “If I Can Dream,” The Romantics’ “Talking in Your Sleep,” The Talking Heads’ “Dream Operator,” and Gary Wright’s “Dream Weaver.”

Solstice Playlist: Top 10 Classic Summer Songs

By Gary Bennett

This article appears in Frederick News-Post’s “72 Hours” entertainment magazine, June 11, 2023.

With apologies to Nat King Cole, those lazy, hazy, crazy days of summer are here!

So, kick back in the lounger, put on that sunscreen, pour a cold one (lemonade, of course), and warm up your smart speaker. There’s nothing like a good summer song to enhance that lazy, sunny, laid-back feeling you’ve got anyway.

Here are my top 10 classic rock summer songs spanning the ‘60s, ‘70s and ‘80s. Did I miss any of your favorites?

Listen to a few of these and I guarantee you’ll feel great. Enjoy!

10. “WALKING ON SUNSHINE”
Katrina and the Waves, 1983
Tease me if you want but this song represents pure joy for me. Makes me want to skip down the sidewalk with a big ol’ grin on my face!

“I’m walking on sunshine, whoa, oh, and don’t it feel good!”

9. “A SUMMER SONG”
Chad and Jeremy, 1964
A sweet, wistful and melodic song saying goodbye to a summer love.

“And when the rain beats against my window pane, I’ll think of summer days again, and dream of you.”


8. “HERE COMES THE SUN”
The Beatles, 1969
You’ll know this classic after the first few melodic notes from George’s six-string. George Harrison wrote it after a particularly harsh English winter.

“The smiles returning to the faces….., here comes the sun, and I say, it’s alright.”


7. “SUNSHINE ON MY SHOULDERS”
John Denver, 1974
A classic, slow, simple song sung from the heart that contemplates the magic of sunshine and wishes you peace and happiness.

“If I had a day I could give you, I’d give to you a day just like today. Sunshine on my shoulders makes me happy.”

6. “BOYS OF SUMMER”
Don Henley, 1984
This Grammy award winner explores aging and losing a past love with a wink toward the national pastime.

“I can tell you, my love for you will still be strong, after the boys of summer have gone.”

5. “UNDER THE BOARDWALK”
The Drifters, 1964
Such a smooth, iconic and carefree song. It could easily be number one but was a little before my time. I don’t have memories of it popping up on the radio. I know many of you do, though!

“Under the boardwalk, down by the see, yeah, on a blanket with my baby, that’s where I’ll be.”

4. “SUMMER BREEZE”
Seals and Crofts, 1972
The dynamic duo of ’70s weenie-rock scored a big hit with this ode to pure day-to-day happiness in the summer of ’72.

“Summer breeze makes me feel fine, blowin’ like the jasmine in my mind.”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MsW8rXPcnM0

3. “IN THE SUMMERTIME”
Mungo Jerry, 1970
Has there ever been a goofier, happier, wildly carefree song than this classic from the one-hit wonderful Mungo Jerry?  Extra points for the long sideburns and strange sounds emanating from their musical jug.

“In the summertime, when the weather is hot, you can stretch up and nourish the sun.”


2. “SUMMER IN THE CITY”
Lovin’ Spoonful, 1966
John Sebastian nailed the edgy vibe of a hot and gritty urban landscape complete with spouting fire hydrants and blaring car horns. This one burst out of the radio the summer of ‘66.

“Hot town, summer in the city, back of my neck getting’ dirt and gritty. But at night, it’s a different world.”

1. “HOT FUN IN THE SUMMERTIME”
Sly and the Family Stone, 1969
The essence of cool from a great 7-piece band. The lyrics are strange but the vocals and tune are just amazing. The song meanders along, not in rush, just like the lazy summer days they sing about.

“That’s when I had most of my fun, back, hi, hi, hi, hi there, them summer days, those summer days.”

Honorable Mentions:

Bryan Adams’ “Summer of ’69,” Bananrama’s “Cruel Summer,” Beach Boys’ “Kokomo,” Jimmy Buffett’s “Margaritaville,” Chicago’s “Saturday in the Park,” Cheryl Crow’s “Soak up the Sun,” Ella Fitzgerald’s “Summertime,” Go Gos’ “Vacation,” Kid Rock’s “All Summer Long,” The Kinks’ “Sunny Afternoon,” Otis Redding’s “Sitting on the Dock of the Bay,” Spanky and Our Gang’s “Lazy Day,” War’s “Summer” and Bill Withers’ “Lovely Day.”

Cuddle Up for Some Rainy Day Songs

By Gary Bennett

This article appears in the Frederick News Post’s 72 Hours magazine, April 13, 2023.

I love a rainy day, and just like Eddie Rabbitt, a rainy night even more. April showers that gently tap, tap, tap on your window pane is one of the great joys in life, and like most things, music makes it even better.

Here are my top 10 classic rainy-day songs that are sure to brighten your day, figuratively speaking, of course. Rain is a handy metaphor for lost love, hard times, and every now and then, surprising happiness.  These songs don’t disappoint.

Can you add to this list?      

10. Here Comes the Rain Again                             Eurythmics

Poppy, syncopated and wistful.  Extra points for the beginning that brings to mind actual raindrops. 

“Falling on my head like a memory, falling on my head like a new emotion.”

9. I Made It Through the Rain                                Barry Manilow

The king of syrupy pop writes movingly about tough times and how to overcome them.

“And found myself respected, by the others who, got rained on too, and made it through.”

8. Who’ll Stop the Rain                                            CCR

First of two Credence Clearwater Revival classics about rain.  How’d they do that? A true rocker with a cool groove.

“Long as I remember, rain been coming down, clouds of mystery pouring, confusion on the ground.”

7. It Never Rains in Southern California               Albert Hammond

Achingly sad song about making a devastatingly poor life choice.

“Got onboard a westbound 747, didn’t think before deciding what to. Don’t tell ‘em how you found me, don’t tell ‘em how you found me, give me a break, give me a break.”

6. I Wish It Would Rain Down                                Phil Collins

A slow, moody and beautiful song about lost love that’s never coming back with the painful knowledge that you caused it.

“You said you didn’t need me in your life, I guess you were right.”

5. Rain                                                                         Beatles

A cooler-than-you, slow jam love letter to actual precipitation by the greatest band of all time. Extra points for being an actual Beatles music video!

“I can show you, when it starts to rain, everything’s the same, I can show you.”

4. Rhythm of the Rain                                              Cascades

A 60’s classic about lost love that starts with a bang — a thunderclap and actual rain. A happy tune that belies the subject.

“Listen to the rhythm of the falling rain, telling me just what a fool I’ve been.”

3. Rainy Days and Mondays                          Carpenters

This quintessentially sad rainy-day song is a painful cry for help from such a beautiful voice.

“What I’ve got they used to call the blues, nothing is really wrong, feeling like I don’t belong, walking around, some kind of lonely clown.”

  • 2. Have You Ever Seen the Rain                  CCR

A cosmic metaphor for things that aren’t quite what they seem.  Classic guitar work with John Fogarty lending his unmistakable whiskey-rock voice.

“Someone told me long ago, there’s a calm before the storm, I know, it’s been coming for some time.”

  1. Rainy Night in Georgia                              Brook Benton

This obscure artist hit it out of the park in 1970 with this hauntingly beautiful, soulful ballad about nothing going right.  The best rainy-day song ever, IMHO!

“Hoverin’ by my suitcase, trying to find a warm place to spend the night, heavy rain fallin’, seems I hear your voice callin’, and I think it’s raining all over the world.”

Honorable Mention

Singing in the Rain                                          Gene Kelly
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=swloMVFALXw

Raindrops Keep Falling on My Head           BJ Thomas
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sySlY1XKlhM

I Love a Rainy Night                                        Eddie Rabbitt
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MG0e8_foDmU

Early Morning Rain                                         Gordon Lightfoot
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1pqttl9aWm0

Rainy Day People                                            Gordon Lightfoot
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x2Sb1gtzmsc

Alabama Rain                                                  Jim Croce
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kio002YGGUE

Mandolin Rain                                                 Bruce Hornsby
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bDgOwX72fLI

The Rain, the Park and Other Things          Cowsills
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HCqg-vhiBAc

Here Comes That Rainy Day Feeling Again          Fortunes
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aO1LbkuPfqo

Another Rainy Day in New York City Chicago
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PZPO8MMW0_A

Riders on the Storm                                       Doors
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lJZTgynPGT8

Stormy                                                              Classics IV
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=18Sua_QTDs0

Lightnin’ Strikes                                              Lou Christie
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LyRqdzF8swY

10 rockin’ hits for your Christmas playlist

John Lennon penned one of the best original Christmas songs of the last 50 years – Happy Xmas (War is Over)

By Gary Bennett

This article appeared in the December 20, 2022, issue of 72 Hours in the Frederick News Post

Not everyone loves Christmas songs, but you can put me in a special category. I love Christmas songs from classic rockers.

It couldn’t have been easy for them. I’m sure some producer or agent along the way told them they needed to do a Christmas album or at least record a few Christmas songs. It would have been easy to record a few of the old standards, and many of them did just that.  But, to write and record an original track and have it turn into a standard, well, that is saying something.

Here are my top 10 original Christmas songs from classic rockers, or at least covers that have become indelibly associated with the artist. Build this playlist into your smart speaker and, if you’re about my age, you’ll be instantly transported back to your teen years when Christmas was carefree.

How’d I do?  Did I miss any of your favorites?

10. Jim Croce – It Doesn’t Have to Be That Way
What can I say, I’m a big fan and this is my list. But wait. Give it a chance. Listen to the unmistakably smooth voice and heartfelt sentiment.
9.  Paul McCartney – Wonderful Christmas Time
This one’s a bit syrupy, but come on, it’s Paul McCartney! He can do what he wants.
8.  Paul Young – What Christmas Means to Me
Paul is an obscure ’70s/’80s top 40 artist who somehow struck gold with this one.
7.  Kenny Loggins – Celebrate Me Home
This obscure song is hauntingly beautiful. Just listen.
6.  Carpenters – Merry Christmas, Darling
Ok, they’re not rockers but the angelic voice of Karen Carpenter offers up a true standard of aching loneliness and missing your loved one at Christmas.
5.  Bryan Adams – Christmas Time
I love this Canadian rocker’s voice and sentiment. Super nostalgic. Always takes me back.
4.  Beach Boys – Little Saint Nick
They make it seem so easy. These Hall of Famers offer their 60’s hit Little Deuce Coup with snow a-flying instead of rubber!
3.  Stevie Wonder – Some Day at Christmas
A pointed, political statement from someone who really cares.
2.  Eagles – Please Come Home for Christmas
It wouldn’t be Christmas without this bluesy and melancholy cover.
1.  John Lennon and Yoko Ono– Happy Xmas (War Is Over)
A political statement mixed with an unforgettable melody and simple words. A true masterpiece from an all-time great.

Honorable mention:  Alabama’s Christmas in Dixie, John Denver’s Noel: Christmas Eve 1913, Dan Fogelberg’s Same Old Lang Syne, Bruce Springsteen’s Santa Claus Is Coming to Town and Elton John’s Step Into Christmas