There’s more to Barry White than just his sexy baritone voice. This episode, we check out his masterful and funky proto-disco instrumental arrangements.
Rhapsody in White on AppleMusic
Trax on Wax Record Store in Catonsville, MD
Episode 12: Cha-Cha on the Rocks by John Buzon Trio
Have we mentioned that we love cha-cha? And Hammond organs? This rare release from 1959 on Liberty is the height of Latin-flavored easy listening with its nonchalant solos and minimalist instrumentation.
Episode 11: Twist by Fats and the Chessmen
Come on everybody, let's do the twist! But in a really low budget kind of way. This 1962 album insists that you enjoy the first international dance craze.
For your swingin' dance party-- come one everybody, let's do the TWIST!
Listen:
Twist on AppleMusic
More information:
The Twist (dance)
Dave Miller & Somerset Records
Episode 10: Mambo by Yma Sumac
An exotica staple! Yma Sumac is most recognized for her extraordinary five octave vocal range. This diva is an Incan princess (true!) and her talent is showcased in traditional and not-so traditional latin music and backed by a hollywood-style orchestra.
Yma Sumac's vocal range: B2 - C#7
Yea Sumac on David Letterman, 1987
Episode 9: Frankie Yankovic and His Yanks’ Greatest Hits
Do you like polka? Beer? Did you steal the keeshka? What is a keeshka, anyway? Answers to all these questions and more as we check out the best of Frankie Yankovic.
Frankie Yankovic being a creeper
Pennsylvania Polka as featured in Groundhog Day
Frankie Yankovic and Weird Al Yankovic's 1986 guide to the Grammies