Author: Margaret Ashworth

The death of Ronnie Spector (née Bennett) last week at 78 prompts a short season of her tracks. This was written as I’m So Young by William ‘Prez’ Tyus and first released … Continue readingThe Ronettes: So Young

The music was written by Sherman Edwards and the lyrics by Ben Raleigh. It was first released by Johnny Mathis as his debut single in 1956. It reached No 14 … Continue readingThe Tymes: Wonderful! Wonderful!

This was written by Paul Simon and appeared on the duo’s fourth studio album Bookends, released in 1968. It was released as the B-side of the single For Emily, Whenever I May Find … Continue readingSimon and Garfunkel: America

This was written by Joni Mitchell to commemorate the 1969 festival and three versions were released in 1970. The first was by Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young and appeared on … Continue readingMatthews Southern Comfort: Woodstock

Thanks to Andy Marshall for reminding me of this 1969 number. It was written by Geoff Stephens and John Carter and produced by Mickie Most. It reached No 2 in … Continue readingHerman’s Hermits: My Sentimental Friend

The Orlons had three big hits in the US: The Wah-Watusi and Don’t Hang Up, both in 1962, and South Street in 1963. Only Don’t Hang Up made any impact in Britain, reaching No 39. It got to … Continue readingThe Orlons: Don’t Hang Up

This was written in 1962 by P J Proby under his real name James Marcus Smith. The first recording was by the Ribbons which reached No 81 in America in … Continue readingThe Ribbons: Ain’t Gonna Kiss Ya

Written by Ray Evans and Jay Livingston for the 1950 film Captain Carey, USA, thissong won the Oscar for Best Original Song. It was a No 1 hit for Nat King Cole … Continue readingConway Twitty/Jerry Lee Lewis: Mona Lisa