The Shadows: I Want You To Want Me
Written by Hank Marvin as the B-side to Atlantis, which was released in May 1963 and reached No 2 in Britain. I think it’s as good a pop song as many … Continue readingThe Shadows: I Want You To Want Me
Author: Margaret Ashworth
Square
Del Shannon: Keep Searchin’ (We’ll Follow the Sun)
This was written by Shannon. It was released in 1964, reaching No 9 in America and No 3 in Britain.
Dion: Runaround Sue
This was written by Dion DiMucci (Dion’s full name) and Ernie Maresca. Dion had split from his backing group, the Belmonts, and recorded the song in 1961 with a group … Continue readingDion: Runaround Sue
Who is on the Lord’s Side?
TWENTY Tory MPs have urged the Prime Minister to allow churches to re-open as soon as next month. They ask why shoppers can go to a busy supermarket but worshippers … Continue readingWho is on the Lord’s Side?
Abba: Waterloo
I was watching on telly the Eurovision Song Contest held in Brighton on April 6, 1974, when Abba burst on to the stage with this brilliant number which would have done … Continue readingAbba: Waterloo
Uncommon orchids
THERE is a former limestone quarry near us, disused since the early 1900s, which is now a nature reserve. It is a haven for all sorts of wildflowers including orchids, … Continue readingUncommon orchids
Lead Me to Calvary
THIS week’s hymn was suggested by reader David Maples. It has a crucifixion theme, but I don’t see why Easter hymns should be kept in a box and taken out … Continue readingLead Me to Calvary
Sandy Nelson: Let There Be Drums
This was composed by American drummer Sandy Nelson and played by him and guitarist Richard Podolor. It reached No 7 in America in December 1961 and No 3 in Britain … Continue readingSandy Nelson: Let There Be Drums
The science of nonsense
THERE is a silver lining to the coronavirus fiasco, which is that the public can now see that there is no such thing as ‘the science is settled’, as the … Continue readingThe science of nonsense
The Searchers: Sweets for My Sweet
Written by Doc Pomus and Mort Shuman, this was first released by The Drifters in 1961 with four female back-up singers who would all achieve success: Cissy Houston (mother of … Continue readingThe Searchers: Sweets for My Sweet