A new, seven-part series as a thiny veiled excuse to have something to write about: three songs that have a day of the week in the title. Not (just) in the lyrics but in the title. Let's get started with Monday.
First off, Monday Monday, made famous by The Mamas and The Papas but subsequently covered, it seems, by everyone. You've probably even covered it too, maybe you've forgotten when. Anyway, from 1966 here's the Californian-sunshine soaked original, proving that sometimes the backing (Cass Elliot and Michelle Phillips' vocals, Wrecking Crew playing) can be more important than the apparent lead.
That's alright, I guess, and is musically very different to the next offering, Bob and his boys, trying to ride on the coat-tails of punk but really veering into new wave territories. The subject matter for this song filled lots of tabloid column-inches at the time, if I remember rightly. Anyway, sorry Bob but looking back it's Johnnie Fingers' piano that makes this song stand out. Anyway, let's be honest, who does like Mondays?
Let's close with undoubtedly the best song in the universe to feature 'Monday' in the title, in all its "12-inch sold at a loss" glory. So influential, so important, so enduring. I punned on the title of this for my Blue Friday blog series, but really it's Monday that was, is and ever shall be blue.
See you tomorrow for ... guess what?
Three belters there Martin
ReplyDeleteWell, it's good to start the week well. Was hard to leave The Bangles out though (oh Susanna, obligatory sigh, etc...)
DeleteHad thought I would do this at some point but you've beaten me to it Martin. Will be interesting to see what you come up with for the other days as a fine selection there for Monday. Love Cass Elliot's footwork in that clip - her signature dance move.
ReplyDeleteSome days are certainly easier than others! But I think/hope I've got 21 fine songs.
DeleteFine tunes sir. However mention must go to a perhaps lesser known "Monday" from Messrs Weller Foxton and Buckler,one I know you're a big fan of too.
ReplyDeleteOops,I wasn't deliberately being incognito above!
ReplyDeleteHow did I omit that?!? Will have to run this series again sometime soon.
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