A compendium of musical delights by Alan and Margaret Ashworth
This was written by Ralph Bass and Lowman Pauling, guitarist with the 5 Royales. The group released it in 1957. I’d say it was pretty good if the guitarist wasn’t … Continue readingThe Shirelles: Dedicated to the One I Love
With Ry Cooder, Bonnie Raitt, Robert Cray, Charlie Musselwhite et al.
This was written and recorded in 1954 by jazz guitarist Johnny Smith. Chet Atkins recorded it in 1956 for his LP Hi-Fi in Focus. The Ventures turned it into a hit … Continue readingThe Ventures: Walk, Don’t Run
Another welcome suggestion from Andy Marshall. As he says, this is a great backing band.
MANY hymns are based on the beautiful poetry of the Psalms, and this one is full of wonderful images: ‘pavilioned in splendour’, ‘whose robe is the light, whose canopy space’ … Continue readingO Worship the King
Divine harmonies from the Letterman show, 1999. Dig the glass harmonica.
WHILE their early hit songs about surfing and girls have their charm, the Beach Boys don’t really interest me until 1966. That was when Pet Sounds changed the face of pop music. … Continue readingThe Beach Boys come of age
The national anthem of Ashworth Towers. Cheers!
I’ve been saving this one because I think it is my all-time favourite record and I will feel sad when I have done it. According to guitarist and producer Steve … Continue readingOtis Redding: (Sittin’ On) The Dock of the Bay
Suggested by reader Andy Marshall. There is a dog in it somewhere.