My Favorite Tunes

By Galactically Renowned Music Critic* and Progressive Listener Mike Kimbro

  1. Phoenix by Dan Fogelberg from Phoenix in 1979 (mp3's: bridge & refrain/close): "Best refrain!  Blues for the White Man.    Understanding that country western music was my mainstay for my first 12 or 13 years, this song speaks to something which developed in me during that time, yet this really isn't CW, as it's sonically sophisticated on a symphonic scale.  With Phoenix, Dan let loose with some serious passion, and demonstrated that his guitar mastery-both lead and rhythm-was just as complete as his keyboard prowess.  My fantasy is a live "Phoenix" jam session, with Dan, Duane Allman, Shawn Philips, Don Henley, Ritchie Havens, Joe Walsh, Robert McEntee, The Kentucky Headhunters, Tim Weisberg, Matt Rollings on piano, and of course...Norbert Putnam on bass.  My vision is an extended play talent showcase in the style of Humble Pie's "I Don't Need No Doctor" from their 'Rockin' the Fillmore' album."
  2. Taxi by Harry Chapin from Heads & Tales in 1972 (mp3):  "2nd Best Lyrics, The song I'd be most proud to write, perfect production, the use of the cello was a masterstroke.  My 3rd favorite concert memory (Louisville's Convention Center)"
  3. Superstar from Jesus Christ Superstar by The Original Broadway Cast in 1970 (mp3):  "Best progressive rock song, best lead bass performance by Alan Spenner, best live performance I NEVER saw, Murray Head's vocals are magnificent.  Question:  why is it nearly inconceivable for a bass player to write for himself such a challenging bass line?"
  4. Born to Run by Bruce Springsteen from Born to Run in 1975 (mp3):  "Best rock song by a standard rock group, & one of the best produced."
  5. Me Gusta by McLemore Avenue from 926 East in 2007 (mp3):  "Best song of the new millennium, best instrumental, understand that I flat out love the Hammond B3 organ, and this is one of the ultimate B3/M3 showcases.  Experienced live first at Austin's Club de Ville...thank God for www.myspace.com." 
  6. Crazy On You by Heart from Dreamboat Annie in 1976 (mp3):  "Best female rock vocal performance by Ann Wilson, best 'total' guitar production effort, great song"
  7. Memories by Mac Davis from Song Painter in 1974 (mp3):  "So damn sweet, I just love this song.  Elvis' version isn't bad either."
  8. Black Magic Woman by Santana from Abraxis in 1970 (mp3):  "Most innovative rock effort, incredible percussion and guitar combine masterfully on this cover of Peter Green's tune."
  9. Pirates by Emerson, Lake and Palmer from Works Volume 1 in 1977 (mp3's: #1 & #2):  "The old punch line "BECAUSE THEY CAN" applies here at so many levels.  With creative talent this high, ELP didn't concern themselves with the dictates of committees back at the label's HQ.  Why?  Cause they had their own label.  And since Brain Salad Surgery had already separated the sheep from the goats (again...at so many levels) the remaining cult of followers were hungry for further innovation and challenge.  Thank God these guys thought enough of their own music to insist on the orchestra in the 'Works Tour'.  That took guts, but the result was well worth it:  2nd Best progressive rock song, Best lyrics (by Peter Sinfield and Greg Lake), 2nd best vocal performance by Greg Lake, my 2nd favorite concert memory (Louisville's Freedom Hall).  Here's another fine pirate ballad."
  10. Big Time by Linda Eder from It's Time in 1997 (mp3):   "Best '90's song, What fun, and so damned powerful, written by Frank Wildhorn and Jack Murphy, it's a masterpiece at every level, from the bass line to Eder's out of this worldly vocal performance."
  11. With A Little Help From My Friends by Joe Cocker from With A Little Help From My Friends in 1968 (mp3):  "Best '60's song, magnificent vocals and lead guitar (by Jimmy Page)"
  12. Kings of the Day by Asia from Aura in 2001 (mp3):  "2nd best song of the 2000's, 3rd best progressive rock tune, best supporting keyboard performance by Geoff Downes, awesome vocal performance by John Payne.
  13. No One In The World by Anita Baker from Rapture in 1986 (mp3):  "Best '80's Song, Best Produced Song (by Marti Sharron & Gary Skardina), Best 'Love' song, the sexiest song ever"
  14. Karn Evil 9 First Impression-1st Part by ELP from Brain Salad Surgery in 1973 (mp3's: #1 & #2):  "Best keyboard performance by Keith Emerson & Best drum performance by Carl Palmer, and 2nd Best Production effort by Greg Lake.  Demonstrates the significance of songwriting ability when trying to push the musical envelope.  Noteworthy is the fact that both samples are from the song's Part 1, an 8:30 freeform, multi-theme masterpiece which has been heard only by those who own the album.  Radio, even AOR stations, only played the song's even higher energy 2nd Part, and the reason for this is simple:  the 2nd Part benefit's from rock's most spectacular ending.  Sadly, today's generation cannot fully experience this song because the CD version deprives one of this song's interactive aspect:  standing over the turntable awaiting for Part 1 to finish so the album could be immediately turned over.  It was the perfect intermission, leaving you wanting more of the song.  Without the break, the CD's continuous version gives the feeling that the song is somewhat drawn out.  If you don't get it first couple of times you hear it, don't be too hard on yourself, for I didn't either.  This is demanding stuff.  Sadly, it's a talent showcase that's held back from the TOP SPOT only by the fact that the later section happened to be playing in the background as the Hand of God was safely navigating my tiny little Honda 600 sedan through a certain death collision opportunity on an overpass on the Watterson Expressway back in 1977.  For some reason, hearing Emerson's hard driving sequencing instantly brings that incident to mind, and that makes it difficult for me to focus on the music.  It's hookless, freeform style is the one I would embrace if the Good Lord would give me the talent to create music"
  15. Shine by Salvador from Dismiss The Mystery from 2006 (mp3):  "3rd best song of the 00's, best religious song."
  16. Evergreen by Barbara Streisand from Memories in 1974 (mp3):  "2nd Best 'Love' song, best example of free form lyrics"
  17. Mambo Sensual by Nestor Torres from Burning Whispers in 1994 (mp3):  "2nd Best '90's Song, 2nd best instrumental (flute) performance, best latin/jazz, interesting, very romantic"
  18. Constant Change by Paul D'Adamo from Tell Me Something in 2010 (mp3):  Best song of the current '10's decade, incredible vocal performance by Paul and production by Brad Cole, this great video documents its creation.
  19. St Elsewhere by Dave Grusin from Nightlines in 198? (mp3):  "Best light jazz, 2nd best 80's tune, the song I most enjoy waking up to"
  20. Testify to Love by Avalon from A Maze of Grace in 1997 (mp3's: #1 & #2): "2nd Best Christian/Religious song, 3rd best production effort"
  21. Een Wereld (One World) by Jeroen van der Boom in 2007 (mp3):  "The video is my favorite live recording, and interestingly, it's a single only"
  22. Dreams by The Rippingtons from Moonlighting in 1986 (mp3):  "2nd Best light jazz, somehow it reminds me of my father"
  23. Heartbreaker by Grand Funk Railroad from Grand Funk in 1970 (mp3):  "My favorite live performance memory (1972-University of Cincinnati)"
  24. Someone Like You by Russell Watson and Cleopatra Higgins from The Voice in 2000 (mp3):  "Emotion rendering"
  25. 21st Century Schizoid Man by King Crimson from In The Court of The Crimson King in 1969 (mp3):  "Most unique song...Genius!"
  26. I Will Glory in The Cross by Larnelle Harris from From A Servant's Heart in 1986 (mp3): "3rd Best Contemporary Christian Music effort, 3rd best 80's song, wonderful vocal performance."
  27. Arizona by Mark Lindsay from Arizona in 1970 (mp3):  "What arrangement and production!  Growing up in Phoenix, for me it's the icon for early '70's AM Pop Radio.  And hey, if you've got the vocal talent, what's the sin in doing a nonsense piece which showcases that talent.  A masterpiece?  Hardly.  But everyone's got a song like this one, you know, one that makes you smile every single time it's played."
  28. Paradise By The Dash Board Light by Meat Loaf from Bat Out Of Hell in 1977 (mp3):  "Unbelievable vocal performance, great song"
  29. Whipping Post by The Allman Brothers from The Allman Brothers Band in 1969 (mp3):  "Best blues/southern rock, Dickie Betts is soooo smooth on lead guitar, and imagine my disappointment when Iroquois High School running mate Billy Dodds and I jumped in the old '66 Fairlane and did the road trip to the University of Evansville, and they didn't play Whipping Post in concert.  Hey, I still haven't recovered from that one." 
  30. Heaven by Asia from Axioms in 1999 (mp3's: Intro & #2):  "Best introduction.  The first of the "New Age Hymns" which Downes and Payne continue in the Aura album.  Incredible rhythm guitar work by Aziz Ibrahim and Elliott Randall." 
  31. Still Rainin' by Jonny Lang from Wander This World in 1998 (mp3):  "2nd Best blues/rock, and Lang was only 16 years old"
  32. Love Rain O'er Me by The Who from Quadraphenia (Original Version) in 197? (mp3):  "Energy and Emotion!  Great song, awesome vocal performance by Daltry, production perfection, and sadly...not included on their 'Very Best of The Who' CD.  What do I know!"
  33. Anthem by Larry Carlton from Renegade Gentlemen in 1993 (mp3):  "Best rock lead guitar performance ever, incredible supporting performances at piano, bass, and drums...Southern rock which would make Duane Allman proud.  It's nice to hear a guitar virtuoso lay down the kind of long, sustained efforts we expect of a keyboard master."
  34. St. Elmo's Fire (Man in Motion) by John Parr from St. Elmo's Fire Soundtrack in 1985 (mp3):  "Great vocal performance, and David Foster (with Humberto Gatica) applying with perfection what he learned while producing "Chicago 17" just a year before"
  35. Summer Song by Joe Satriani from The Extremist in 1992 (mp3):  "2nd best lead guitar performance ever, and of course it includes long, sustained talent showcases.  What a blessing that nobody was trying to put their lame lyrics to this instrumental masterpiece.  Why aren't there more rock instrumentals?"
  36. Man of La Mancha (I, Don Quixote) by Linda Eder from It's Time in 1997 (mp3):  "Remarkable arrangement by Jeremy Roberts.  Written in the mid-'60's for a male, yet no female vocal performance grabs me the way this does.  I can't wait to experience it live, but my fantasy would include Peter White on Spanish Guitar, and Carl Palmer on Drums, with an extended bridge featuring a counterpoint between Linda and the latin flute of Nestor Torres."
  37. Love in the First Degree by Alabama from Feels So Right in 1981 (mp3):  "Best C & W song, wonderful, manly love song from the 'less is more' school"
  38. Kei's Song by David Benoit from Freedom at Midnight in 1987 (mp3):  "Simply beautiful, Deb said the instrumental refrain was the sound of love."
  39. Dangerous by Natalie Cole from Dangerous in 1985 (mp3):  "The best song unheard by 99.99% of the citizens of Caucasia. What fun!  Great vocals & the production effort of Marti Sharron and Gary Skardina nearly equals the work they did just a year later on Anita Baker's "Raputre" album.  Unfortunately, Natalie omits "Dangerous" from her Greatest Hits album, just as she did with my other Cole favorites:  "(You're) Someone That I Used To Love" and "(Now We're) Starting Over Again."   This is her right, however, as Natalie is a pioneer in the Grammy winning art form known as "Duets with the Deceased"--however controversial it may be."
  40. Come On In Out Of The Rain by Wendy Moten from Wendy Moten in 1992 (mp3):  "Unbelievable vocal performance, and perfect production by Nikos Lyras."
  41. Feeling That Way Too/Any Time At All by Journey from Infinity in 1978 (mp3):  "Great song, so much talent, so close to perfect...so why don't I like it more?"
  42. I Talk to the Wind/ Epitaph by King Crimson from In The Court Of The Crimson King in 1969 (mp3's: solo/intro & bridge):  "Interesting, sophisticated, typical Sinfield lyrical magnificence put to life by an inspired Greg Lake, Fripp was setting a standard for guitar production, Giles' technical drum mastery, and that is Ian McDonald on both flute and mellotron."
  43. The Last Farewell by Roger Whittaker from Special Kind of Man in 1971 (mp3):  "Perfection comes in many forms...this is one"
  44. Take Another Look by Grant Geissman from Take Another Look in 1990 (mp3):  "Remarkable guitar work, plus David Benoit on Piano"
  45. All the Kings and Castles by Shawn Philips from Bright White in 1973 (mp3):  "Remarkably sweet, with a spectacular lengthy aria which renders it totally 'uncoverable' by anyone other than Linda Eder or Sarah Brightman, but I'd love to hear Seal take a crack at it"
  46. Funeral For A Friend/Loves Lies Bleeding by Elton John from Good Bye The Yellow Brick Road 1973 (mp3):  "Best Elton John Tune says it all...Very interesting"
  47. Gethsemane by Ian Gillam and The Original Broadway Cast from Jesus Christ Superstar in 1970 (mp3):  "Best vocal performance ever by Ian Gillan"
  48. Baker Street by Jerry Rafferty from City to City in 1978 (mp3):  "2nd best introduction, behold the power of the saxophone."
  49. Smokin' by Boston from Boston in 1976 (mp3):  "Where talent achieves it's potential.  Best song on the best album ever, the Hammond B3 sets it apart"
  50. That's the Way it Is by Celine Dion from All the Way in 1999 (mp3): "That voice is so damned beautiful and interesting, with the accent adding so much spice to the performance."
  51. Only Love by Linda Eder from It's Time in 1997 (mp3):  "Amazingly, some will argue that this isn't even the best LOVE song on this album, as "It's Time" approaches the same 'it's time to go for it' subject matter from a completely different performance and production angle.  Both are further examples of Wildhorn and Murphy greatness."
  52. Stranglehold by Ted Nugent from Ted Negent in 1975 (mp3):  "The rock song I most wish I'd seen performed live, after 'Superstar', that is"
  53. Cafe Con Leche by Nestor Torres from Burning Whispers in 1994 (mp3):  "Happy and light Latin instrumental, just wonderful"
  54. Time to Say Goodbye by Andrea Bocelli and Sarah Brighman from Romanza in 1996 (mp3):  "This song should be higher, but I have no taste"
  55. Worlds Away by Pablo Cruise from Worlds Away in 1978 (mp3):  "Great piano work by Cory Lerios and synth efforts by Cory, Steve Porcaro, and James Newton Howard make a fine song awesome.  This may be a case where, due to the the absolutely incredible keyboard work on "Running" on the same album, "Worlds Away" could be elevated in my mind more than it would be if it were on another album.  It's like a remarkable performance in one song makes me more sensitive to that element throughout that album."
  56. Photograph by Def Leppard from Pyromania in 1983 (mp3):  "The best example of why I love Def Leppard...superb vocals, instrumentals & production."
  57. The Cowboys Overture by John Williams from the movie The Cowboys in 1972 (mp3):  "Listen to it and you'll understand why Williams was chosen to pen the music for Jurassic Park, E.T., Star Wars and Indiana Jones."
  58. Song for America by Kansas from Song for America in 1975 (mp3's: #1 & #2):  "Kerry Livgren's masterpiece from a composition and performance point of view, taking progressive rock in a different direction once Brain Salad Surgery had set the standard for high powered/high production electronic music.  It's a complete keyboard showcase, except for my beloved mellotron.  Yet I have to admit that the mellotron is not missed in Kansas' music due to Robby Steinhardt's incredible violin work."
  59. Move Over by Janis Joplin from Pearl in 197? (mp3):  "Just a great song done perfectly both vocally and instrumentally, but after the breakup with the musicians of Big Brother & The Holding Company...why use their totally unique sound in the bridge?  That was Big Brother's sound, not Janis's."
  60. Stairway to Heaven by Led Zepplin from Album #4 in 1971 (mp3):  "Begs to be covered as an instrumental.  Plant's working about an octave higher than I can understand.  (In all fairness, it's possible that I've simply heard this monster classic 16,256 times too many)"
  61. Sowing the Seeds of Love by Tears for Fears from The Seeds Of Love in 1989 (mp3):  "Production genius.  These boys really know how to let their Fairlight shine."
  62. Born On The Bayou by CCR from Bayou Country in 197? (mp3):  "So very unique, and so very cool"
  63. Just Between You and Me by Lou Gramm from Long Hard Look in 1989 (mp3):  "What a vocal performance"
  64. The Beggar by Gary Puckett and The Union Gap from ??? in 197? (mp3):  "Great song, 3rd best male vocal performance, plus incredible yet simple production."
  65. Quando, Quando, Quando by Engelbert Humperdinck from ??? in 197? (mp3):  "First understand that...in the shower...when I'm all lathered up...I wish I could sing like Engelbert!  There it is!  Oh the shame!"
  66. Where Does My Heart Beat Now by Celine Dion from Unison in 1990 (mp3):  "2nd best rock vocal performance by a female"
  67. Time For Me To Fly by REO Speedwagon from Hi Infidelity in 1980 (mp3):  "So musical, and such a great song"
  68. The Sweetest Days by Vanessa Williams from The Sweetest Days in 1994 (mp3)
  69. Pavilion by Eric Johnson from Venus Isle in 1996 (mp3):  "Typical Johnson "broad spectrum" guitar performance"
  70. Back Stabbers by The O'Jays from ??? in 1972 (mp3):  "As Daniel Goldberg of The Rolling Stone reviewed: "...[Producers] Gamble and Huff...transform the formula hit single into sublime art."
  71. Backstabbers by The Rippingtons from Kilimanjaro in 1988 (mp3):  "Remarkable instrumental cover, in concert at the late great Caravan of Dreams in Fort Worth, I remember Russ Freeman introducing this song by announcing: "It's time for the sing along!"  During the song he'd point out to the crowd and we all shouted 'What They Doin'!'  I guess you had to be there."
  72. Mama I'm Coming Home by Ozzy Osbourne from No More Tears in 1991 (mp3)
  73. I Got Eyes by Melissa Manchester from Melissa in 1975 (mp3):  "So smooth and easy."
  74. Hey Big Brother by Rare Earth from Greatest Hits and Rare Classics in 1971 (mp3)
  75. War Pigs by Black Sabbath from Paranoid in 1970 (mp3):  "Don't pass judgment until you've experienced the truly awesome guitar work in the later section.  It's so unique."
  76. California by Jim Wilson from A Place in My Heart in 2003 (mp3)
  77. Street Party by Tim Weisberg from Listen to the City in 1975 (mp3)
  78. I Can't Drive 55 by Sammy Hagar from VOA in 198? (mp3)
  79. Fat Bottom Girls by Queen from Jazz? in 198? (mp3)
  80. Foreplay/Long Time by Boston from Boston in 1976 (mp3)
  81. The Ace of Swords/Nothing to Loose by The Alan Parsons Project from The Turn of a Friendly Card in 1980 (mp3)
  82. Sweet Freedom by Michael McDonald from the Running Scared Soundtrack in 1986 (mp3)
  83. We Are The World by The USA for Africa in 1985 (mp3)
  84. Peace of Mind by Boston from Boston in 1976 (mp3):  "Brad's vocals are shear perfection."
  85. It Takes Me Back by Robert McEntee from Looking For A Good Sign in 2005 (mp3)
  86. Beach Trails by David Benoit from This Side Up in 1986 (mp3):  "Probably smooth jazz's earliest standard"
  87. Tangled Up In Blue by Bob Dylan from Blood on the Tracks in 1974 (mp3):  "Folk lyrics met the standard set a few years earlier by Chapin's "Taxi", but fell far short in music and production. I wish I'd never seem the pathetic video, as it diminished my regard for this song.  A pity, but I still yearn for a cover by Jonny Lang or Sammy Hagar or Dan Fogelberg, but only if allowed to significantly enhance the song"
  88. Always by Atlantic Starr from All in the Name of Love in 1987 (mp3)
  89. White Lines by Duran Duran from Thank You in 1995 (mp3)
  90. When I Was A Boy by Dar Williams from The Honesty Room in 1995 (mp3)
  91. I Need A Lover by John Cougar Mellencamp from John Cougar in 1979 (mp3)
  92. If I Could Turn Back Time by Cher from Heart of Stone in 1989 (mp3)
  93. Kentucky Rain by Elvis Presley Released as a Single in 1971 (mp3)
  94. Wheels by Restless Heart from Wheels in 1986 (mp3):  "Could be top 50 if not for the pre-Headhunters ("we don't need none of that rock'n'roll stuff round these here parts") production styling.  But overall, the production is very well done, it's just that a longer bridge and exit would help elevate this song.
  95. Day of the Eagle by Robin Trower from Bridge of Sighs in 1974 (mp3)
  96. Angela by The Rippingtons from Moonlighting in 1986 (mp3)
  97. American Woman by The Guess Who from American Woman in 1970 (mp3)
  98. Tourist in Paradise by The Rippingtons from Tourist in Paradise in 1988 (mp3)
  99. Shakedown by Bob Segar from the Beverly Hills Cop II Soundtrack in 1987
  100. Voyager/What Goes Up... by The Alan Parsons Project From Pyramid in 1978 (mp3)
  101. Do You Feel Like We Do by Peter Frampton from Frampton Comes Alive in 1976 (mp3):  "2nd Favorite Live Recording"
  102. Make Me Loose Control by Eric Carmen from The Best of Eric Carmen in 1988 (mp3)
  103. Viva Las Vegas by ZZ Top from Greatest Hits in 199? (mp3)
  104. Dream Of The Witches Sabbath by Berlioz from Symphony Fantastique in 18?? (mp3)
  105. Man Alive by Johnny Diesel from Hepfidelity in 1993 (mp3)
  106. The Last Time by Asia from Aura in 2001 (mp3):  "The bridge's guitar counterpoint between Steve Howe and Ian Crichton is great!  Featuring Howe's wonderful progressions and cascades which were no doubt inspired by the work of the steel guitarists of folk and country music (examples #1 & #2)"
  107. As by Stevie Wonder from Songs in the Key of Life in 197? (mp3)
  108. China Grove by The Doobie Brothers from The Captain & Me in 197?
  109. A Day In The Life by The Beatles from Sgt. Peppers Lonely Heart's Club Band in 196?
  110. Think by Aretha Franklin from ??? in 197? (mp3)
  111. Badman's Song by Tears for Fears from The Seeds Of Love in 1989 (mp3):  "Another 'freeform' style song which I see as the ultimate vehicle for showcasing talent and encouraging creativity."
  112. All The Gold in California by Larry Gatlin & The Gatlin Brothers from ???? in 198? (mp3)
  113. More Than A Feeling by Boston from Boston in 1976 (mp3)
  114. Halo of Flies by Alice Cooper from Killer in 1971 (mp3)
  115. I'd Really Love To See You Tonight by England Dan Seals & John Ford Coley From ???? in 1975 (mp3)
  116. Purple Haze by The Jimi Hendrix Experience from Are Your Experienced in 196? (mp3)
  117. Chill Factor by Richard Elliot from Chill Factor in 199? (mp3):  "Rick Braun on Flugelhorn and Richard Elliot on Tenor Sax via perfect production."
  118. Make Me Smile by Chicago from Chicago II in 1970 (mp3):  "Should be a favorite for anyone's who's ever been a school band member.  The trombone lead passage is great."
  119. New Day by Avalon from Testify to Love in 2003 (mp3)
  120. The Heart of the Matter by Don Henley from The End of the Innocence in 1989 (mp3)
  121. The Boxer by Simon & Garfunkel from ??? in 196? (mp3)
  122. Love Comes Walking In by Van Halen from 5150 in 1986 (mp3)
  123. Summer Breeze by Seals & Crofts from Diamond Girl in 197? (mp3)
  124. Mississippi Queen by Mountain from Mountain Climbing in 1970
  125. Talk To Me by Stevie Nicks from Rock A Little in 1985 (mp3)
  126. Here I Go Again by Whitesnake from Whitesnake in 1987 (mp3):  "Held back by it's video-centric production, as a decent bridge could have upped it to top 50.  Also, I'm sure I hear keyboards, yet I see no keyboard credits anywhere."
  127. You On My Mind by Swing Out Sister from Kaleidoscope World in 1989 (mp3)
  128. Go All The Way by The Raspberries from ??? in 1972 (mp3)
  129. Jump by The Pointer Sisters from Break Out in 1983 (mp3)
  130. Freedom by George Michael from Listen Without Prejudice in 1990 (mp3)
  131. Big Time by Peter Gabriel from So in 1986 (mp3)
  132. Through the Eyes of a Child by Lisa McClowry from Spyglass Hill in 2001 (mp3):  "Best 'feel good' song ever.  Impressive in every way, but lyrically it's in a group with "Taxi" and "Pirates" (ie: "...the mirror shows you've grown, but reflects the child in you...")
  133. Champagne by Kenny G from Duotones in 1986 (mp3):  "Best Sax performance, and that's NOT a soprano sax in Kenny's hands."
  134. Why Me by Styx from Cornerstone in 1979 (mp3)
  135. What Kind of Man Would I Be by Chicago from Chicago 19 in 1988 (mp3)
  136. Key West by The Village People from ???? in 197? (mp3)
  137. Kiss From A Rose by Seal from Seal in 1995 (mp3)
  138. God Bless The Child by Blood, Sweat, and Tears from ????? in 197? (mp3)
  139. With the Pride by Spandau Ballet from Parade in 1984 (mp3)
  140. Make His Praise Glorious by Sandi Patti from Make His Praise Glorious in 1988 (mp3)
  141. Careless Whisper by Wham/George Michael from Make It Big in 1984 (mp3)
  142. Locomotive Breath by Jethro Tull from Aqualung in 1971 (mp3)
  143. New World in the Morning by Roger Whittaker from A Special Kind of Man in 197? (mp3)
  144. Let Your Love Flow by The Bellamy Brothers from ??? in 197? (mp3)
  145. Power of Love/Love Power by Luther Vandross from Power of Love in 1991 (mp3)
  146. Rollin' Home by Pirates of the Mississippi from Pirates of the Mississippi in 1994 (mp3)
  147. The Babysitter's Here by Dar Williams from The Honesty Room in 1995 (mp3)
  148. Sweet Love by Anita Baker from Rapture in 1986 (mp3)
  149. Armageddon It by Def Leppard from Hysteria in 1987 (mp3)
  150. The Colour of Love by Billy Ocean from ??? in 198? (mp3)
  151. Rosanna by Toto from Toto 4 in 198? (mp3)
  152. Pull The Damn Thing Down/Music Was My First Love (Reprise) by John Miles from Rebel in 1976 (mp3's: #1 & #2)
  153. Without Love by Tom Jones from ????? in 197? (mp3)
  154. Party at Ground Zero by Fishbone from Fishbone on 1985 (mp3):  "Genius!"
  155. In Your Eyes by Jeffery Osborne from Emotional in 1986 (mp3)
  156. So Close to Love by Wendy Moten from Wendy Moten in 1992 (mp3)
  157. If Ever You're In My Arms Again by Peabo Bryson from ????? in 198? (mp3)
  158. In The Court of the Crimson King by King Crimson from In The Court of The Crimson King in 1969 (mp3)
  159. North To Alaska by Johnny Horton from ??? in 196? (mp3)
  160. I Can't Get Next to You by The Temptations from ????? in 197? (mp3)
  161. A Long And Lasting Love by Crystal Gayle from Nobody Wants to Be Alone in 1985 (mp3)
  162. Hair by The Cowsills from ????? in 196? (mp3)
  163. Take Five by Grover Washington, Jr. from Next Exit in 1992 (mp3)
  164. Something About You by Level 42 from World Machine in 1985 (mp3)
  165. Catching The Sun by Spyo Gyra from Catching The Sun in 1980 (mp3)
  166. Time, Love, & Tenderness by Michael Bolton from Time, Love, & Tenderness in 1991 (mp3)
  167. Sausolito Summernight by Diesel (Dutch) from Watts in a Tank in 1981 (mp3): Mark Boon and Rob Vunderink
  168. Cold Day in Hell by Larry Carlton (featuring Terry McMillan) from Renegade Gentlemen in 1993 (mp3):  "My 3rd favorite blues song, with Terry McMillan on harmonica & vocals."
  169. Piano Man by Billy Joel from Piano Man in 197? (mp3)
  170. I Wish I Knew by The Kentucky Headhunters from Songs from the Grass String Ranch in 2001 (mp3)
  171. Dancing Queen by ABBA from Arrival in 1976 (mp3):  and here's the cover from Broadway's Mama Mia! (mp3)
  172. I Still Believe by Russ Taff from The Way Home in 1987 (mp3):  "And here's another great version (mp3) which may be the original."
  173. Rock You Gently by Jennifer Warnes from the album The Hunter in 1992 (mp3)
  174. Saving Grace by Point of Grace from Steady On in 1998 (mp3)
  175. Too Legit To Quit by Hammer from Too Legit To Quit in 1991 (mp3):  "Best Video."
  176. Those Were The Days by Mary Hopkin from Post Card in 1968 (mp3)
  177. Tapestry by Teri DeSario from Voices in the Wind in 1985 (mp3):  "Not a single musician's credit anywhere.  Sad."
  178. Duane's Song by The Dickey Betts Band from Pattern Disruptive in 1988 (mp3)
  179. Wonder Why by Avalon from Oxygen in 2001 (mp3)
  180. Free by Asia from Aura in 2001 (mp3):  "#3 drum performance ever by Simon Phillips, a guitar showcase with work by Ian Crichton, Pat Thrall, Jon Payne and Steve Howe!"
  181. What's On Your Mind (Pure Energy) by Information Society from Information Society in 1988 (mp3)
  182. Someone That I Used to Love by Natalie Cole from ??? in 198? (mp3)
  183. Let There Be Praise by Sandi Patti from Morning Like This in 1986 (mp3)
  184. We by Shawn Phillips from Faces in 1972 (mp3)
  185. Hollywood by Maynard Ferguson from Hollywood in 1982 (mp3)
  186. The School of Instant Pain by Triumvirat from Spartacus in 1975 (mp3's: #1 & #2)
  187. Hillbilly Shoes by Montgomery Gentry from Tattoos and Scars in 1999 (mp3)
  188. Jurassic Park Theme from The Jurassic Park Soundtrack by John Williams in 1992 (mp3):  "Yes, I realize it uses fewer notes than a U2 guitar solo, but I just can't help myself.  Even with it's simplicity, it really touches me."
  189. Big Love by Fleetwood Mac from ??? in 198? (mp3)
  190. Southern Cross by Crosby, Stills & Nash from Daylight Again in 1982
  191. Who's Holding Donna Now by DeBarge from Rhythm of the Night in 1985 (mp3)
  192. White Water by Lee Ritenour from Portrait in 1987 (mp3)
  193. A Piece of Sky by Barbara Streisand from The Yentl Soundtrack in 1983 (mp3)
  194. The Wall by Kansas from Leftoverture in 1976 (mp3):  "Confirms that - in the hands of a master like Robby Steinhardt - the violin could be a fine substitute for the mellotron."
  195. Tell Me To My Face by Dan Fogelberg & Tim Weisberg from Twin Sons of Different Mother in 1978 (mp3)
  196. How Can You Love Me by Ambrosia from Road Island in 1982 (mp3)
  197. Dream of A Lifetime by Kelli Reisen from Dream of a Lifetime in 1992 (mp3)
  198. Right Here, Right Now by Jesus Jones from Doubt in 1989 (mp3)
  199. Stayin ' Alive by The Bee Gee's from Saturday Night Fever in 1978 (mp3)
  200. Forever Man by Eric Clapton from Behind the Sun in 1985 (mp3):  "Layla's 1st two minutes are better, but Forever Man doesn't subject me to a boring and totally out place four minute close out."
  201. Pilgrims Progress by Daniel Kleefeld from Sail Into The Wind in 2000 (mp3):  with Grady Nichols on sax
  202. Take You At Your Word by Avalon from In A Different Light in 1999 (mp3)
  203. Catherine Howard by Rick Wakeman from The Six Wives of Henry VIII in 1973 (mp3)
  204. California Dreaming by The Mama's & The Papas from ??? in 196?
  205. Mother Russia by Renaissance from Turn of the Cards in 1974 (mp3)
  206. Runnin' by Pablo Cruise from Worlds Away in 1978 (mp3)
  207. The Pretender by Jackson Browne from The Pretender in 1976 (mp3)
  208. Dissonata by Roine Stolt from The Flower King in 1994 (mp3):  "A perfect example of a 'freeform' style song, which I see as the ultimate vehicle for showcasing talent and encouraging creativity.  Let the music meander and flow where it will.  And yes, sometimes the transitions ARE the best part of the song...but that's OK."
  209. You're the Stranger by Asia from Aura in 2001 (mp3):  "Progressive rock with a salsa beat...what a cool concept!"
  210. Hold On by Wilson Phillips from Wilson Phillips in 1990
  211. The First Noel by BeBe and CeCe Winans from David Foster's Christmas Album in 1993 (mp3)
  212. Where to Now St. Peter by Elton John from Tumbleweed Connection in 1970 (mp3)
  213. Waiting For A Star To Fall by Boy Meets Girl from Reel Life in 1988 (mp3)
  214. On The Wings of Love by Jeffrey Osborne from Jeffrey Osborne in 1982 (mp3)
  215. Woman From Tokyo by Deep Purple from Who Do We Think We Are in 1973 (mp3)
  216. He Must Be Love by Kelli Reisen from Dream of A Lifetime in 1992 (mp3)
  217. A Brand New Day (Everybody Rejoice?) from The Wiz-Original Soundtrack in 1978 (mp3)
  218. Humility by Twila Paris from Keepin' My Eyes on You from 1982 (mp3)
  219. I Was Made to Love You by Gary Wright from The Dream Weaver in 197? (mp3)
  220. Don't Let The Sun Come Down On Me by Elton John from Caribou in 1975 (mp3)
  221. The Comfort of Strangers by Julia Fordham from Julia Fordham in 1988 (mp3)
  222. Hold Me Now by The Thompson Twins from Into The Gap in 1984 (mp3)
  223. Welcome to the St. James' Club by The Rippingtons from Welcome to the St. James' Club in 1990 (mp3)
  224. Somewhere, Out There by Linda Ronstadt and James Ingram from ??? in 198? (mp3)
  225. Down 'n' Outer by Nanci Griffith from Late Night Grande Hotel in 1991 (mp3)
  226. Closer to Home by Grand Funk Railroad from Closer to Home in 1970 (mp3)
  227. The One by Elton John from The One in 1992 (mp3)
  228. Don't Sleep in the Subway Darling by Petula Clark from Don't Sleep in the Subway Darling in 1967 (mp3)
  229. Take My Time by Steve Gaines from One in the Sun in 197? (mp3)
  230. Twist in My Sobriety by Tanita Tikaram from Ancient Heart in 1988 (mp3)
  231. Longfellow Serenade by Neil Diamond from Serenade in 1974 (mp3)
  232. I Need You by LeAnn Rimes from I Need You in 2002 (mp3)
  233. Awake by Asia from Aura in 2001 (mp3)
  234. Kyrie Eleison by Mr. Mister from Welcome to The Real World in 1985 (mp3)
  235. The Kingdom of God is at Hand by Danielle Rose from Mysteries in 2003 (mp3)
  236. Scenes from An Italian Restaurant by Billy Joel from The Stranger in 1977 (mp3)
  237. We Bow Down by Twila Paris from Sanctuary in 1991 (mp3)
  238. Morning Sojourn by David Benoit from Freedom at Midnight in 1987 (mp3)
  239. Don't Know Much by Linda Ronstadt from Cry Like A Rainstorm, Howl Like The Wind in 1989 (mp3)
  240. My God by Point of Grace from Steady On in 1998 (mp3)
  241. Breathe Again by Toni Braxton from Toni Braxton in 1993 (mp3)
  242. Guardian Angel by The Brothers Dimm from their To Oblivion CD in 2006 (mp3)
  243. Bark at the Moon by Ozzy Osbourne from Bark at the Moon in 1983 (mp3)
  244. Miracle by Richard Marx from Flesh and Bone in 1997 (mp3)
  245. Shadow Boxing by Giles Reaves & Jon Goin from Letting Go in 1989 (mp3)
  246. Karn Evil 9 Second Impression by Emerson, Lake & Palmer (EPL) from Brain Salad Surgery in 1973 (mp3)
  247. Along the Way by Richard Elliot from On the Town in 1991 (mp3)
  248. Circle in the Sand by Belinda Carlisle from Heaven on Earth in 1987 (mp3)
  249. Aquarius/Let the Sunshine In by The 5th Dimension from The Age of Aquarius in 1969 (mp3)
  250. Carpet of the Sun by Renaissance from Ashes are Burning in 1973 (mp3)
  251. If She Only Knew by 98 Degrees from 98 Degrees and Rising in 1998 (mp3)
  252. I Believe in Love by Paula Cole from Amen in 1999 (mp3)
  253. Apologetic by Lynne Timmes from Human in 2007 (mp3)
  254. Lonesome Saxophone Part 1 by Grady Gaines from Gulf Coast Blues in 1990 (mp3)
  255. Jesus Was a Capricorn by Kris Kristofferson from Jesus Was a Capricorn in 1972 (mp3)
  256. Wake Up And Dream by Richie Havens from Simple Things in 1987 (mp3)
  257. Machine Gun Blues by Tommy Burda from 'Taxi Blues Jingle'? in 2008 (mp3)
  258. Always Be Together by Pablo Cruise from Worlds Away in 1978 (mp3)
  259. Birds Still Dance by Sandi Patty from Artist of my Soul in 1997 (mp3)
  260. Deeper by Nancy Wilson from Forbidden Lover in 1987 (mp3)
  261. My Cruel Ways by Basia from The Sweetest Illusion in 1994 (mp3)
  262. Heaven by Paul Jackson, Jr. from A River in The Desert in 1993 (mp3)
  263. Grease Don't Freeze by Gnappy from Unloaded in 2006 (mp3)

To return, best to hit the back arrow button, or go to:  My Favorite Albums     My All-Time All-Star Bands 

 * as opposed to a Rock 'n Roll Culture Critic, or even a Rock Trivia Expert, as neither Rock Culture nor Rock Trivia interest me much.  I only care about the music, and I'm don't give a song extra points simply because an artist makes up some story about how he or she wrote the song in 15 minutes while riding on a city bus while under the influence of Twinkies and Dr Pepper.  Furthermore, I don't care if the artist is wearing a Mohawk or a Page Boy, denim or spandex or even polyester, or whether he was wearing his mustache before or after the release of "The Three Musketeers."  What determines 'cool' changes with the wind.  Great music really doesn't.