Little Richard: Long Live the Architect of Rock
The loss of Little Richard has ginned up lots of memories. This one, from a Grammy ceremony, perfectly sums up how he set the tone for rock.
Pop Music of the 1950s Was Way Cooler Than You Think
There was certainly a transition in music from the 1950s to the 1960s. But 1950s pop music wasn’t simplistic or sappy as some would have you believe.
Etta James and “Roll With Me Henry”
Etta James’ “Roll With Me Henry” is another one of those songs that serves as a rock n’ roll building block. Here’s how it came about.
The Lions That Sleep Tonight: How a Piece of South African Improvisation Went Global
You know the Tokens’ version of “The Lion Sleeps Tonight.” But the story on this classic piece of rock history goes way back — and still generates controversy.