.

Happy is the Elvis fan who enters Graceland

1) When Happy Tay wrote to inform me that he was going to Graceland, Memphis, Tennessee this year I asked if he could be the blog's official Elvis ambassador. Not only did he oblige but sent pictures as well.

2) Lately, I found out that he is popularly known as the Elvis Presley of Vancouver, Canada. I asked him about it and below is his story explaining what actually happened. Personally I think he looks a bit like Elvis doesn't he?

Happy Tay with a friend @ Graceland home of The King.

1) Hello Andy,

Here I am, reporting back from Graceland, Memphis, home of King Elvis Presley, mission finally accomplished. It was "surreal" to be visiting Elvis home, with a fantastic and unbelievable feeling, just walking through his home.

2) Dear Andy,

That's just an "unofficial" title, nothing important to put in print really!

Having done a few performances at local churches (one of them was 'Aloha Hawaii' with about 350 dinner guests, and me, dressed in an Elvis white jumpsuit) and some other private events, fans here started calling me Elvis (even the Sisters in my church addressed me by the name).

Happy with one of the original Elvis costumes. A personally tailored one costs US$4,000.

The only professional appearance I did was during a local Sold Out Elvis Show (he was then the winner of the Elvis World Champion held in Las Vegas). The venue of the show was at one of the local hotel here a few years back, when some local Caucasians ladies who were there to watch the Elvis performance, started to scream out my name - don't know how they knew me - and wanted me to go on the stage to sing! They kept shouting that I was the local Elvis, and wanted me to do a number too.

A citation explaining Sun Records at 706 Union.

I was dumbfounded, and pleasantly surprised, that I had some fans. Well, I was invited to the stage by the Elvis performer to do a number which I did, and to their satisfaction, of course. I remember among the many paying guests that evening, was the Consular from Singapore and the Director of the local UOB Bank, among many other luminaries.

So, there you are Andy, that's how I got to be called Elvis here. Comprende?

Cheers,
Happy.

With the original microphone used by Elvis Presley at Sun Records.

Dear Happy,

Thank you very much for being such a sport with pictures of your Graceland trip and explaining how you got to be called Vancouver's Elvis. Now we also know why you are called Happy and how as a former Singaporean and a present Canadian you are able to shed your inhibitions and perform on stage like The King.

Your sincerity shines through and you truly make us all feel good. Keep the Singapore name flying.

Yours sincerely,
Andy.

Happy Tay stays @ the Heartbreak Hotel. Check out his side-burns and sunglasses man!

*Disclaimer:
It's all in fun and games. As Happy Tay explained in his email, this title is not an official one but we're just wondering who the real Vancouver Elvis is? Or is Happy the only person who deserves it? Anyone? Especially those from Canada?

Hey, Wilson, you reading this?

Images and article provided by Happy Tay - August/September, 2013.

Not Cliff Richard's dream devil but the one below. Image from YouTube: Bertirocks1.

Raven hair and ruby lips
Sparks fly from her finger tips
Echoed voices in the night
She's a restless spirit on an endless flight
Wooo hooo witchy woman, see how high she flies
Wooo hooo witchy woman, she got the moon in her eye. (1)

My memory of the 60s does not bring back the frightening fun of Halloween because not many locals knew about it like they do today. It was confined amongst the Caucasian households while many Chinese homes followed the religious 7th Moon or Hungry Ghosts Festival where spooks and demons were the order of the season.

Again, my tale is not of haunted hospitals at Changi, the lady ghost at Bishan's MRT nor the kampong spirit at Bidadari that we read about in the newspapers but a psychological trauma I experienced as a child that even troubles me to this day (or night).

As a young boy I had always been petrified and disturbed by an old folk tale about skin coloured bats hanging upside-down from tree branches. The Kalong Wheh- Wheh is supposed to be a giant bat with a horrendous female face and large breasts. Don't think of glamorous superhero Bat Girl here. Think more bat-like Pontianaks! (image 2 below, not 1 above).

Devil woman you're evil like the dark coral reef
Like the winds that bring high tides you bring sorrow and grief. (2)

Kalong Wheh, Wheh without wings.

These creatures hook themselves on wayside tree branches that grow along Singapore's old roads and dusty lorongs (lanes) in the 60s. But here's something else. They only appear at twilight, symbolically a time and condition of decline.

So as darkness falls in Singapore these giant bats fill the evening sky and swarm onto large trees. Loud cries of "Wheh! Wheh! Wheh!" fill the air as they seek the comfort of the high shady greens.

"Be careful," my mother used to warn me, "the creatures spy on young children who are still not home for dinner when the clock strikes six. Be out there and you're in trouble!"

How they victimize their human prey is still a mystery to me. Mum never went beyond her horror story and left the rest to my imagination. She did however explain that these giant human-like bats originated from Indonesia. Bat is kalong in the Indonesian language.

Apparently they are also known as *Hantu Tetek (ghosts with breasts: image 2) in local Malay slang. Some say she uses them to suffocate her victims, while others believe she suckles her young captive. Then there are those who insist her breasts are behind. Others claim she is a Balinese witch.

"She doesn't suck your blood," mum used to explain, "but wrap you up close to her soft body and fly you away..." By this time my whole being slumped in fear and my heart thumped with cemetery-like precision.

"OK mum, I won't be late for dinner," I said sheepishly.

She smiled.

Wonder if these creatures are still around today in our modern metropolis. The strange repeated occurrence of trees that fall during rainstorms in the evenings... Hmm!

If you have Hantu Halloween Horrors to contribute, please do.

Possibly this one. YouTube Video by ceekay1952.

She's just a devil woman
With evil on her mind
Beware the devil woman
She's gonna get you from behind. (3)

Happy Halloween everyone!

Lyrics:
1. Witchy Woman: by Eagles.
2. Devil Woman: by Johnny Lion.
3. Devil Woman: by Cliff Richard.

Images: Google and You Tube.
An original article.

Group will play songs by local and foreign artistes.

This Silver Strings line-up below will perform *a Charity Concert in Bukit Timah on 9th November and @ Orchard Road on 15th November 2013, where they will play 60s music by both local and foreign artistes.

Rickie Chng plays lead guitar and has been with Shadows' styled groups since the 1960s. During practices with him and the rest of the Silver Strings for the upcoming gigs, Rickie has provided strong and confident backing for the singers. His prowess as a guitarist shows when he tackles with ease the opening bars to each number rehearsed.

Rickie played for a while with The Trailers during Singapore's golden music years and has been within the guitar circuit since. A regular at the Tanglin Community Club he is currently playing with another band, The Esquires. He believes in Fender and owns a Stratocaster 40th re-issue.

Patrick Chan, who plays rhythm used to perform with D Peddlers. According to him, his group was, "playing for kicks in a bungalow at the Norfolk area." It was great fun during his short bachelorhood days before pursuing a career in the Civil Service and business world afterwards.

A dedicated guitarist, he currently plays lead and sings with his own group called, Pat n Patricians and shares musical fellowship with friends who likes to sing 'live' and social dance at Whampoa CC . Their repertoire includes pop rock, country and evergreens. Pat also plays for charity, grass-root activities, social functions and at their weekly Sunday T- Dances. He owns a Fender Stratocaster, the model used by Stevie Ray Vaughan. He rocks with Chuck Berry's JBG.

Oliver Bala's fascination with drums started when he "was captivated by the radio sounds of the Beatles Rubber Soul album in 1965." His mother's present of a Lucky Star drum-set during his school years led him to take up the skill with heart n soul. He played with various bands up to 1971 when he started his professional career in the education service.

He only played seriously again in 2005 jamming with friends but intensified when he retired from 2009 and bought a new Tama Superstar set. Oliver admits that he is a fanatical Beatles fan and his drum influences as a child were Ringo Starr, Tony Meeham and Bobby Elliot. He also does some lead, backing vocals and, "plays the guitar, piano and various percussion instruments." His rendition of Orbison's Pretty Woman is hot!

Nicholas Emile Stravens (Nick) played keyboard since 1970. His first club scene was at Toby's Paradise with a band known as the New Generation which became The Change. The group performed at 3 venues each night, The London Scene, The G-Room and the Oberoi Imperial Hotel. They later did stints at West Point, Golden Million, Golden Mikado, Barbarella and the El Amigo.

While in the SAF's first ever talentime, Nick walked away with the 1st prize and won the title of Singapore's Lobo. After ROD he got together with the band Shang, performed at the Ion Bar at Apollo Hotel, took over from Sonny Bala and transformed the music scene there. They did stints in Indonesia, Malaysia ,Taiwan, Brunei and Philippines. Then came a Malay album they recorded, road shows for SBC and performed at National Theatre gigs.

Audie Ng, bassist and band leader needs no introduction. Since 1963 this music-maker has been in the business both as boss man and bass man. You can read more about Mr Silver Strings himself @ this connection:

http://singapore60smusic.blogspot.sg/search/label/Audie%20Ng

Veronica Young, known as Singapore's Millie Small and who sings like Connie Francis, will take the Silver Strings to new heights when she sings with them this November. There's much to read about her so why not browse through this blog starting @:

http://singapore60smusic.blogspot.sg/search/label/Veronica%20Young

Andy Young appears with the gang.

*Booking sold out for #1.
Images from Google, SS Poster and personal extracts
An original profile article.

Silver Strings - Seductive Seniors @ Play - 9th November 2013

Rickie Chng

Audie Ng and Patrick Chan

Nick Stravens

Oliver Bala

Veronica Young

Strings practising hard for gigs @ Bukit Timah and Orchard Road.
Have you read about them? Check posting below for individual profile.

Host Blogger Andy will sing with the group.

Images: Private Collection.

*Postcard from Doc Lee

Medical doctor Lee Yan San, my blogger friend from Penang, Malaysia, has some good personal friends in the international pop music industry. One of them was the late Russ Hamilton - Oh Yes,We Will Make Love - who was featured earlier on the blog.

Another good friend of Yan San is Bobby Bare, who together with Kenny Rogers and the late Cowboy Jack Clement were officially inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame during a Sunday evening on October 27, 2013 medallion ceremony in Nashville, Tennessee.

**Bare migrated to Los Angeles where he first tasted fame in 1958 when The All American Boy, a song he had co-written became a No. 2 pop hit. Chet Atkins signed him to RCA Records in 1962, giving him a string of hits that included Detroit City, 500 Miles Away From Home, Miller's Cave, Four Strong Winds, The Streets of Baltimore and Margie's at the Lincoln Park Inn.

Bare was instrumental in establishing the Nashville careers of Waylon Jennings, Billy Joe Shaver and Shel Silverstein (edited).

Lee Yan San on You Tube singing Bobby Bare's The Giving Tree

In a sincere comment about Bare, Yan San concluded that, “It is a near impossible job choosing my best Bobby Bare album as practically each album when released turned out to be my favourite after some play and I practically worn out playing most of my Bobby Bare LPs!”

Yan San and Russ Hamilton

You can read about Bobby Bare and Russ Hamilton by clicking Labels below:

*Bobby Bare inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame. Congratulations! Postcard designed by YS's daughter Hai Lin and sent to Bobby Bare.

**. http://www.cmt.com/news/country-music/1716332/kenny-rogers-bobby-bare-jack-clement-inducted-into-country-music-hall-of-fame.jhtml

Lee YS Blog: http://lee-ys.blogspot.sg/
Images and You Tube from Lee YS.

The postings these few days will probably be filled with Silver Strings photographs. We have not received the official ones from the organiser. Performance was on 9th November, 2013.

Silver Strings Family from left: Rickie, Oliver, Patrick, Veronica, Nick, Audie, Andy.

Andy with Audie on stage: "Took a little trip to my Boys' Town..."

Veronica with audience participation

Silver Strings backstage.

Images from Veronica Young Facebook, Andy and Boys Town Photographers.

After the appearance of the currently new Silver Strings in the last few postings we turn the clock back once again to the 1960s when kopi-oh meets teh-tarek.

The welcome sign outside the hotel bar read: "Go underground where anything can happen. And usually does. Tonight and every night from 9pm to 3am." Entry was cheap. And the advertisement was for the eve of Christmas and New Year. For 10 Singapore bucks you got a first drink and novelties. (I remember going to England in the early 80s and it was about S$8.00 to the British Pound). And two bands entertained, one the highly respected, Thunderbirds with Heather. And the other? Well, let's discuss the other...

The T-Set. Barry's on extreme right.

This group was one guitar gang performing in the 60s, imported as a package from the British Isles. No Singaporean amongst the members. Even the group's name had a British ring to it; the patrons who came to Hotel Malaysia were amused when they heard that T-Set was playing at The Pub which, of course had an English setting. Yeah, imagine, "Shall we have tea at The Pub today dear?" Or more likely, "Gimme a Tiger!"

A Cuppa: not too familiar sight today. "When Bread Talks, Kopi Tiam."

Barry Walker, who wrote to me about this group was the lead guitarist and singer. In the 60s the same members used to play as a group in cabarets in England but decided to come to Singapore to try their luck. Familiar with the local scene - Barry was around for four or five years since 1966 - he had recommended T-Set to play, and at the Orchard Road area too. (Barry is featured on this blog with his other groups The Figure and In-Sect. Click Barry Walker under Labels below).

Better than coffee anytime! A Goodwood Hotel Advertisement.

The other members of T-Set were Roy who played bass guitar, Chris the drummer and Mick who played keyboard. These gentlemen were still unattached when they appeared at the club in the mid-1960s and except for Chris who had a quiet demeanour was already a father.

According to Tea-Set, who loved to perform in Singapore, audiences here were polite and usually reserved. Locals would rather sip their beers quietly and chat with their mates at the bar while Caucasians would dance to their music.

A Pinta: "Time for a Tiger."

On the other hand when they played back home patrons there could be rowdy, reckless and walk off during a session if they dislike the band's performance. A band member remarked that he would love to come back to live in Singapore permanently.

So guys, if you remember T-Set from the good old days when they played at the Penthouse Disco with two other groups called, Limited Stock and Faith , give us a write. Doesn't matter if you're in England or in Singapore. The boys would love to hear from you!

Thanks to Barry Walker for the images.
Other images: Google.

Written a couple of weeks back, I am dedicating this Barry Walker article to James Seah from our bloggers' group. He just loves the smell of Tiger...

Images are not very clear.

The Silver Strings.

It was a large crowd indeed at the Platinum Music World Disco Venue at Orchard Central but more importantly they were very supportive, singing and clapping to the performance that evening.

Rickie Chng highlighted as he plays FBI.

The mostly silver tsunami Silver Strings supporters who came were re-living the 60s Orchard Road phenomenon with sounds from the Shadows like, Apache and FBI played by lead guitarist Rickie Chng (image above - with silver mop) who won over the audience with his professional finger gallops.

Singapore's Chuck Berry Patrick Chan with Johnny B. Goode.

Rhythm guitar Patrick took over the microphone and enthralled the crowd with Johnny B. Goode, the Chuck Berry classic. Great rocker Pat! He came on again later in the night with a tribute to Keith Locke and the Quests singing, You Lied. The applause was deafening.

Audie Ng always has a smile for his audience as Nick concentrates.

Audie was in the spotlight when he went solo with bars from Elvis' Mean Woman Blues. He looked resplendent carrying his white bass guitar and charismatic smile.

Silver Strings fans in the front row seats.

Guardian Angel Rickie makes sure I do it right.

The band accompanied me with My Hometown, Diana, Red River Rock, and Mean Woman Blues while pop singer Irene Yap saved me with her beauty and graciousness when I went on the aisle. The other pretty lady (sorry didn't ask her name) helped me with my awkward dance steps.

At the drums, Oliver Bala with My Lonely Heart.

Drummer Oliver Bala, who had a percussion hide-away all to his own at the back of the stage was finally in the limelight with his tribute to local band The Thunderbirds singing My Lonely Heart. Later on and in contrast he screamed the night away with the Beatles' top hit, I Saw Her Standing There.

The youngest one, keyboardist Nick.

Keyboardist Nick was next with Cliff's Young Ones. The audience connected when he sang, "And some day, When the years have flown, Darling, then we'll teach the young ones, Of our own."The crowd repeated every line. We rehearsed Stoney but Nick who is Singapore's Lobo did not perform it.

Crowd enjoying the show.

By about 9pm the house was packed and nobody moved as the Strings played The Ventures' version of El Cumbanchero. Lead Rickie completed the instrumentals with Midnight in Malaya from Boy and the Rollin' Kids. The crowd was melted by nostalgia magic.

Veronica Young, Singapore's Millie Small took over the stage. And the crowd burst with energy again as she thrilled the audience with My Boy Lollipop, Stupid Cupid and Hippy Hippy Shake.

Powerhouse Veronica Young with Connie Francis', Where The Boys Are.

Her rendition of My Happiness, Frankie and That's All I Want From You subdued the crowd as they listened to her sing about 15 hits altogether that included Too Late For Tears, Silver Threads and Golden Needles and Happy Birthday Baby, tributes to Shirley Nair, The Crescendos and Naomi and the Boys. She ended the evening's gaiety with Gronloh's Burung Kakak Tua and sang an encore, You Mean Everything To Me.

Fans from all over Singapore.

Andy and Veronica with house boss Marissa after the show.

Straits Times Press LIFE Happenings on Friday 15th November 2013.

Images from The Straits Times Press, Marissa (Sweetymariz), Audie Ng, Veronica Young.
Check their FB pages for more photographs.

Apologies to Merlin Lim (original rhythm guitarist and Philip's recording artiste) who went to the club but could not get in touch with me. I had invited him personally to come.

BLOG IS 5 YEARS OLD. THANKS TO FRIENDS, READERS, CONTRIBUTORS!

Airport Song by Magna Carta from You Tube: luxyaltz219.

Dear Andy,

I suppose you know this lovely song which refers to Singapore. It reminds me of a day in late Ocober, 1964 (almost 50 years ago now) when my flight from London to Changi was delayed overnight due to thick fog.(I had been in the UK for an aircrew selection board at Biggin Hill and was returning to Singapore to resume my tour of duty there).

Later on in years whenever I hear the song, I am reminded of that day, and of the following day when the aircraft finally landed and I was enveloped by the heat, the smells and the sounds of the island I had grown to love during the previous 15 months. Happy days indeed.

Allan Thompson RAF.

Magna Carta is a Progressive rock group originally formed in London in April 1969. With Chris Simpson (guitar, vocals), Lyell Tranter (guitar, vocals), and Glen Stuart (vocals).

Airport Song by Magna Carta

Sitting in the airport lounge
I'm waiting for a plane
Everything is grounded
For the fog is down again
I should be leaving in the morning
On a flight for Singapore
With a guitar and a suitcase and a face
In a photograph

Dozing with a coffee and a drooping cigarette
And the dog eats Sunday supplement
And still i can't forget
I should be leaving in the morning
On a plane bound for the sun
With a guitar and a suitcase and a face
In a photograph

The hands on the clock
Turn around and around
Dragging past the hours
'till the dawning of the day
And the girl in information
With her eyes on confirmation
She's turning with a smile to break the news

I cannot quite believe it, but I thought I heard her say,
'The customs all have woken up, the fog is on it's way'
So I'll be leaving in the morning...

Images: from Google.

Airport Song by Magna Carta from You Tube: luxyaltz219.

I had to give this posting its own space because of Allan's nostalgic note below and the song he introduced. As I mentioned on the comment page, it's a new song for me. Thanks Allan.

Dear Andy,

I suppose you know this lovely song which refers to Singapore. It reminds me of a day in late Ocober, 1964 (almost 50 years ago now) when my flight from London to *Changi was delayed overnight due to thick fog.(I had been in the UK for an aircrew selection board at Biggin Hill and was returning to Singapore to resume my tour of duty there).

Changi Air Base 1966. With thanks to singas.co.uk

Later on in years whenever I hear the song, I am reminded of that day, and of the following day when the aircraft finally landed and I was enveloped by the heat, the smells and the sounds of the island I had grown to love during the previous 15 months. Happy days indeed.

*Possibly Changi Airbase.

Allan Thompson RAF.

Magna Carta is a Progressive rock group originally formed in London in April 1969. With Chris Simpson (guitar, vocals), Lyell Tranter (guitar, vocals), and Glen Stuart (vocals).

Airport Song by Magna CartaSitting in the airport lounge
I'm waiting for a plane
Everything is grounded
For the fog is down again
I should be leaving in the morning
On a flight for Singapore
With a guitar and a suitcase and a face
In a photograph

Dozing with a coffee and a drooping cigarette
And the dog eats Sunday supplement
And still i can't forget
I should be leaving in the morning
On a plane bound for the sun
With a guitar and a suitcase and a face
In a photograph

The hands on the clock
Turn around and around
Dragging past the hours
'till the dawning of the day
And the girl in information
With her eyes on confirmation
She's turning with a smile to break the news

I cannot quite believe it, but I thought I heard her say,
'The customs all have woken up, the fog is on it's way'
So I'll be leaving in the morning...

Images: from Google.
Changi airbase image from: http://www.singas.co.uk/HTML/changi.html

Walk Right Back With The Everlys - 20 Golden Hits

SONGS I LOVE:

In the early 60s, they transformed the bluegrass sound of their Kentucky (USA) boyhood into a richly harmonised form of rock n roll and this close harmony vocals influenced many singers from the West. Similarly in the East, Indonesian/Dutch duos like The Blue Diamonds, Singapore's Cyclones and Malaysia's Mike and Herb followed their unique style.

The above vinyl record is one of those rare finds I walked away with for only $2.00. On the internet it's about $20.00 or so and that's without shipping cost. Not a collectible but with twenty songs in the pocket and all genuine recordings by the Everly Brothers. What more could I ask for?

Sungei Road Yesterday. Called Robinson Petang.

It's a 1975 mint conditioned Warner Brothers recording distributed by WEA Records Ltd. I love the artwork by Mick Brownfield on the cover and overall album sleeve design by Graves Aslett Associates. Some tracks are re-recorded versions of their Cadence hits, the result of a nostalgic recording session held in Nashville, Tennessee in 1962. If you're an Everly Brothers fan there's even a Chart Position for US/UK/Year for the 20 songs.

The Blues Diamonds inspirationally Everlys.

I bought this particular record two years ago when #Sungei Road was still wide enough to accommodate the sellers and make-shift stalls in the area but now with the building of the MRT, the place has shrunk to nearly half its size. Or even less than that?

I want you to tell me,/ Why you walked out on me,/ I'm so lonsome every day...

Everly Brothers - Bird Dog (live 1983) HD from: Gerda0815007.

The Brothers inspired a generation of musicians from the Beatles to Simon and Garfunkel. Dressed in snazzy outfits and sporting pompadours, they offered instant appeal to teenagers who easily identified with their songs about dating parents and high school.

In 1960, Phil and Don Everly sold eight million copies of their worldwide hit Cathy's Clown. Between 1957 and 1965 they notched-up a collective total of over 35 million singles and albums. Many of their biggest hits were penned by Boudleaux Bryant and wife Felice.

For this particular album, the tracks were cut in Nashville under Chet Atkins who had worked with Elvis Presley. They include most of their hits with others like Love Hurts, Love Is Strange, How Can I Meet Her, Temptation, Don't Blame Me, So Sad, No One Can Make My Sunshine Smile, The Ferris Wheel, The Price of Love and Muskrat. On July 14th 1973, they announced their last concert appearance together each preferring to follow a solo career.

The Everlys. Today?

The Everlys are both in their mid-70s now. Ooh! Wanna walk right back to Sungei Road for old vinyls? You really gotta look out for them. Hardly around any more. Pity!

I want you to know that,/ Since you walked out on me,/ Nothing seems to be the same way...

Sungei Road Today. (remembersingapore.wordpress.com)

#In case you're a tourist who's never been to Singapore, Sungei Road used to be called Thieves' Market or Robinson Petang (evening Robinson's Department Store). Not any more but lots of second-hand goods and if you're lucky you can find some vinyl records.

Images: Google.

Commuting by Space Craft

The cliche goes,"A thousand words are not as good as one seeing." A young lady reporter from a popular youth magazine who met me for an interview commented on the blog and asked for more images to be posted when I write an article. So here it is folks. Lots of pictures and not too many words. But can you guess the venue?

The week-end was spent on a flight beyond the horizon where the alien-blue spacecraft (image above) journeyed us to a place where music was present every time and everywhere.

We Soar Into Alien Skies

The poster lit-up in this community of about 5,000 people revealed an all night party with more than five music groups performing, not at the same time but within a period of 72 hours.

Tis The Season To Meet Mary?

Music Connection I:

During the day there was George the keyboardist who wooed and wowed the crowd with his versatility on the instrument. He played on Shop Street as the passers-by went on their Christmas gift hunts. Saxy reveals, jingling bells and soothing strings filled the air. And the fanfare came from George alone using his gadget."Trumpets sound and angels sing, listen to what they say..."

You Tube Bee Gees Saturday Night Fever

Addicted To Dance

Music Connection II:

When night fell , there was this big 60s guitar group playing in the ballroom that had patrons shouting, Let's Twist Again and warming up to Saturday Night Fever. Hovering around I saw celebrities from the past under the disco-lights. Shades of Chubby Checker and John Travolta! Were they really on the floor? And Olivia Newton John? "On the waves of the air,/ There is dancin' out there./If it's somethin' we can share,/We can steal it."

Disco Fever Givers

Music Connection III:

Meanwhile on Shop Street, when keyboardist George left to put on his suit and bow-tie to join the jazz group, the moon peeked down and witnessed that another party had gathered under the bridge. Five people were on it and dressed smartly in different uniforms, they screamed the letters Y.M.C.A. many times from the bridge singing Village People's famous hit and other 70s disco-pops.

Young Men Can Activate!

Still cannot guess where we were? As usual there are no prizes for your answers since it's all in fun and games.

You Tube The Shadows: Theme from Deer Hunter

Songs Of Silence By Soloist On Strings.

Music Connection IV:

Some guests who preferred a quieter venue went upstairs to listen to a lone guitarist's version of the haunting Cavatina, theme from the movie, Deer Hunter. I sat enhanced, watching and listening to this soloist on strings. After a while I realised I was the only person sitting at the lounge for more than an hour enjoying the tranquil music being played. The few who came left after a while. Perhaps they preferred rap or do they understand music when they hear a piece? One man's meat...

Jeepers Creepers Take A Look At Those Peepers!

Music Connection V:

A change of scene at daybreak and sexy singer Savanna (hope I got her name right since we met in the evening) sang her hotties on Shop Street. On the left is the bassist who also contributed many songs for the afternoon's mall scene. His rendition of Billy Ray Cyrus' Achy Breaky Heart drew a large crowd.

One of the best jazz bands ever.

Above is one of the best jazz-band there is on Shop-Street. Playing many big swing band numbers, they came on with 40s and 50s hits like Chattanooga Choo Choo and Take 5. Every member provided a solo piece and that included melodies played on the trombone, trumpets, saxophones, guitar, keyboard, bass and drums. Name the hits and they would have played them.

This gentleman sings the blues but all in Chinese. Unique indeed.

Music Connection VI:
Some patrons who were not into Western pops wandered into another lounge where a gentleman sang the blues in Chinese. So he pleased this community with choices from Teresa Teng and other Mandarin singers from the 60s and 70s.

She's With Heels, Remember? Jokes she's 7 feet tall.

I had my date with the lady in black but only for a brief moment because she had to hurry, change her garb and charge into the discotheque to do her numbers in tight blue jeans. Savanna was pleasant indeed to chat with.

And that sweet city woman,/She moves through the light,/Controlling my mind and my soul./When you reach out for me/Yeah, and the feelin' is bright..."

Six to eight music happenings day and night in 72 hours but all within the confines of a little planet no bigger than a small town. *Do you know where we were? Please write in.

This posting is not an advertisement but one to highlight how important musicians are as ambassadors of entertainment. Since there are many musicians most names have not been mentioned.

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

*We were on board Mariner of the Seas from The Royal Caribbean Liners fleet of mega-ships. (Answer given on Wednesday, December 4th, 2013 by Peter Chan. Thank you sir.

Images: Blogger's Collection and Kvaerner Masa-Yards.

Lyrics from song, Saturday Night Fever by Bee Gees.

Front Cover of Souvenir Programme: From Boys' Town Facebook.

47 Years Ago Today:

In the 60s when a variety show was held, either at the most popular venues like the National Theatre at Tank Road, Victoria Theatre at Stamford Road or in smaller venues like the FnN Hall at Kim Seng Road or SJAB Hall at Beach Road, the souvenir magazine was usually a simple 8 to 10 page booklet made out of typing paper. At times it consisted of an A4 size paper folded and stapled into place to form the evening's programme.

The Early Bird Line-Up of The Thunderbirds

The inner pages were usually printed in black and white with a mildly colourful cover page done using silk-screen printing in two colours and the paper's white background (image one). Graphics could be quite attractive depending on the amateur artist's ability and committee in charge.

Personally David, Merlin and Danny Boy (Osman) were the nicest guys ever!

The rest of the pages would be filled with pictures and write-ups of our local pop stars while the centre-fold revealed the programme for the evening. It was standard procedure.

The printing would usually be done manually using a *Gestetner duplicating machine. Such a procedure saved cost but with a little more financial backing the organisers would have the programme printed professionally by a company as the Pep Pop Show programme (image 4) shows.

A Typical Pop 60s Show. The Best There Was, And Well Worth The Entrance Ticket.

Again the choice depended upon the organisers' financial situation and whether there were advertisements between pages. These advertisements from sponsors would certainly have covered part of the cost.

Siglap Five With Jeffridin.

The above show sponsored by Boys Town OBA could have been less expensive to produce in the 60s where bands performed because they loved the glamour and glory of being pop stars. Some bands were also eager to help out with the charities that needed assistance. Mostly the boys and girls who participated were doing the gigs for fun and enjoyment while earning an honorarium.

Checkmates - Without Doubt In The Top Five Category.

This particular charity event showcased the best of the guitar groups from the 60s. It could have had attracted a large audience at the National Theatre seeing that it was held on 9th December 1966, exactly 47 years ago since it was a time of year-end festivities like Christmas and New Year. It was also the school holiday season. Boys Town had organised successful shows like this one to help raise funds for the organisation.

From Velvetones To Firebyrds. Recorded too.

The bands featured that night need no introduction. Except for one or two groups, the line-up of artistes were the best from our local 60s stable. They were well-represented with an array of top singers and bands from Singapore. Even bands from the UK were participating and included singers like Brian Neale, Leroy Lindsay and Winston Walters. Terry Marsden compered the show.

Naomi and The Boys - They Took Singapore To Stardom.

If you had attended this particular show 47 years ago please write in because it would be exciting to have you bring back memories that happened nearly half a century ago. You don't have to give your name. Would really be great cause I know hundreds of people would have been involved in planning and executing such a large happening.

*A Manual Office Duplicating Machine

Images: From Boys' Town Facebook and Bloggers' Collection.

My Christmas Posting

Tony Fonseca: Tokyo Square

Some Sleeves Speak:

*There's a new world somewhere
They call the Promised Land
And I'll be there someday
If you will hold my hand.

I was thinking what I could post for this Christmas season. Not another album from the West nor a Yuletide list of songs from the past. Combing the vinyls in my little record cupboard I found an LP I had purchased not too long ago.

A group of late 60s and 70s Singapore musicians got together and recorded on Polygram ten songs in praise of God. It was, according to the sleeve back-cover, "a Gospel music adventure to spread His Word through a variety of popular music rhythms." It's no Christmas album but polished enough to be on that special list. If you can find a copy around it's a great gift for someone on this special occasion.

Derek Danker: The Mandarins

This project together with the 5 locals had inspired 5 female singers who had, "never experienced the rigors of recording ... to lend their lovely voices" for the Lions Studio Polygram Singapore get-together.

This unique encounter had two (Matthew) Mandarins guitarists, two X-periment synthesiser, Fender Rhodes experts and a Tokyo Square percussionist to press songs by Dusty Springfield, Dion DiMucci, Mark Tendergrass and other pop composers from the West.

The result was a one-off gem of a vinyl piece called, He's The One. Wonderful Encounter (front sleeve cover below), by Derrick and Richard Danker, Mervyn and Dudley Nonis and Tony Fonseka. The female vocals included contributions from Wendy, Grace, Linda, Judith and Sharon.

Mervyn Nonis: The X'periment

It's a long, long, journey
So stay by my side
When I'll walk through the storm
You'll be my guide, be my guide.

A host of people helped in this project and would include Patrick Cheong, John Herbert and Eddie Seet from Polygram. Nearly twenty other people were involved and according to the sleeve that spoke, they thanked the "Lord for allowing it all to happen."

Finally the choice of songs. The tracks included the big hit, I'll Never Find Another You (New World Somewhere), The Greatest Thing, Welcome to the Family, Daddy others like Centre of My Life, I Put away my Idols, and an original by Mervyn (right), My Song to You (Jesus).

Image from: glowingguitars.com

As is always in local music folk-lore, Singapore 80s usually showcased the 60s and 70s. This recording was done in 1985. That's nearly 30 years ago.

It is a well-thought out and recorded piece. Vocals by the ladies especially, New World Somewhere could have hit the top charts in the 60s. Tracks by the guys were similarly well recorded with great voice quality but it would have been convenient for a reviewer if the singer's name was provided after each song for easy identification of artiste.

But if I should lose your love, dear
I don't know what I'd do
For I know I'll never find another you...

A Blessed Christmas to my friends, supporters and readers for a new and peaceful 2014.

Record Front Cover by Courtesy of Polygram Records.

*Lyrics by Tom Springfield: Seekers - I'll Never Find Another You
Images: Blogger's Collection. With thanks to Polygram Records.
Art Direction n Design: Patrick Low n Bernard Holmberg.
Photography: Henry Wong, Patrick Low.
Art Work: Vincent Ng, of Vin n Art.

Rita Chao

Sakura Teng.

Is it true? Is Sakura Teng really quitting the stage? She said that it will be her final performance this Sunday where she will appear at a theatre in Singapore.

Whatever it is, *read about this lady who sings in so many languages that she became a sensation in the 60s with another petite and cute singer called Rita Chao.

Can singers ever quit the stage? Many of them are still performing their routine and singing ever so gladly the tunes they love.

The Rolling Stones, Deep Purple, Lulu, Engelbert Humperdinck, Paul Anka, Tom Jones, Tony Bennett, Chaka Khan and locals like Poon Sow Keng, Ling Xiao and Matthew Tan are some artistes who are already in their 60s and 70s but still doing their thing.

第二春 The Ding Dong Song - 樱花 Sakura Teng by boogetman65

Bennett is in his 80s and he's still one of the best. Even Glen Campbell was lead to the stage not too long ago to sing his hits with his family members. He said the same about quitting but then Campbell has Alzheimer's.

I have a feeling that Sakura will not sing her last but I am not certain because it looks like more male singers are still active and the ladies aren't. Now is that true? Anyone?

*Check these postings: http://singapore60smusic.blogspot.sg/search/label/Rita%2FSakura

Images from personal collection.
Original article.

Young Yusnor

Yesterday:

In 1963, Mohammed Nor (Yusnor) and I used to take a chartered bum-boat every week day from Changi jetty to Pulau Tekong and back . He taught in a Malay primary school and I in a Chinese one. L2 was so important those years and many teachers were picked to teach English, Malay or Tamil as a 2nd Language in most government schools all over Singapore including the off-shore islands.

In the boat Yusnor would relate to me how he became P. Ramlee's student and learnt the art of movie making from the legend himself. The stories he told made our 40-minute boat-ride seemed shorter and the sea could sometimes be rough during stormy weather. Yusnor was also writing songs for our local pop bands, all 250 and more. That's a lot of songs!

A Changi Bumboat.

After some years as a teacher he was transferred to the Curriculum Development Institute of Singapore (CDIS) to write text-books, lyrics and produce school documentaries during his ETV (Educational Television) years. I went abroad but we kept in touch...

On New Year's night 2014 we shall be watching a sell-out concert in honour of this quiet and humble gentleman:

*Di malam itu engkaulah bintang
Ramai yang datang bertepuk riang
(That night you are the star
Many who come will applaud with joy)

He is a true bintang (star) and hero indeed, a hero who uses his pen, which is definitely "mightier than the sword."

Today:

"Since the ’60s, one Malay music songwriter has stood out in Southeast Asia for his prolific talent and heartfelt lyricism, having lent his magic touch to hundreds of songs by artists such as P Ramlee, Saloma, Ahmad Jais and Anita Sarawak. Till this day, the songs of Singapore Malay music pioneer and Cultural Medallion recipient, Yusnor Ef, continue to be performed and enjoyed by many.

You Tube: Saloma: Aku, Dia dan Lagu.avi by njendra.

Enjoy an evening of songs specially selected by Yusnor Ef, including Gelisah (Restless), Taj Mahal and Joget Malam Berinai (Wedding Night Dance) to be sung by ’60s and ’70s songbird Sanisah Huri, in a rare appearance, joined by other well-loved veteran artists Maria Bachok, J Mizan, A Razak, Zamzam and Rahimah Rahim.

Popular young artists Imran Ajmain, Sezairi, Maya Rahman and Zaibaktian will also grace the concert together with a special guest appearance by Malaysian singer, A Rozaini, who will be singing songs by A Ramlie such as Kasih Sayang Suami Isteri (Love Between Husband & Wife) and Hancurnya Istana Cinta (Broken Love Palace).

Accompanied by Orkestra Majlis Bandaraya Johor Bahru and guest musicians from Orkestra Melayu Singapura, this special evening features music arranged and conducted by renowned Malaysian composer, Datuk Suhaimi Mohd Zain, affectionately known as Pak Ngah.

For one night only, immerse yourself in beautiful songs that owe much of their appeal to Yusnor Ef's evocative lyrics."

Content from: http://www.esplanade.com/whats_on/programme_info/pentas_aku_dia_dan_lagu/index.jsp

Date: lst January, 2014, Wednesday.

Time: 8pm

(2hrs without intermission. Performed in Malay).

Venue Esplanade Concert Hall.

Images from: Google.

Read more about Yusnor by clicking his name under Labels below:

Introduction:

PlayNation is a 1-hour info-ed. about the changing recreational landscape in Singapore, focusing on national nostalgia, hence heritage and culture. The show was screened on nationwide television in August 2013 on the Octo Channel.

Screen Shot from Oak3Films Facebook.

Part of the documentary covered a segment on the nightlife scene in Singapore, i.e. nightclubs, music, tea dances, etc. in the 60s up to the present.

Researcher and production co-ordinator Marissa came across this blog and read write-ups on Singapore's 60s nightlife. She got in touch and I shared my experience for the documentary. After the official screening on TV, she provided me some location-shot photographs for this blog.

I thank her, producer Jonathan and the film crew.

Location Shots:

Dear Andy,

Play Nation is a nostalgic 46-minute Info-Ed programme that looks at Singapore’s history through the way we played and continue to play. It is produced by Oak3 Films Pte Ltd.

Thank you again for contributing to our show and making it possible. We would also like to inform you that you have been credited for your contribution to the show.

*Warm Regards.

Gadis, right, with kite and film crew. From Oak3Films.

Crew filming young lady Gadis (above right) from Singapore Kites Association preparing to fly her kite at Layang Layang Fun @ Marina Barrage organised by PUB Marina Barrage with Singapore Kites Association. Gadis is also our profile for the 1st segment which is all about simple play - kite flying aka layang layang, playgrounds, zero point, etc.

Liew Kai Khiun @ Dragon Children's Playground. From Oak3Films.

Filming Liew Kai Khiun (above sitting) about his memories of playing at the now famous Dragon Playground at Toa Payoh for the 1st segment of the documentary.

Universal Studios, Singapore. From Oak3Films.

Crew filming some shots of Universal Studios for part of the montage sequence in the last and 4th segment of Play Nation which covers the new ways of play in Singapore at Universal Studios, Waveboarding, FlugTag, etc.

Mixologist From Oak3Films.

Crew filming Ethan Leslie Leong, a mixologist (above far right) who makes cocktails as a profession and was the one who made the $32,000 cocktail, Jewel of Pangaea, the most expensive one in Asia. He is also our profile for the 3rd segment which is all about nightlife as a form of play in Singapore.

Screen Shot from DVD by Oak3Films.

Within the confines of a retro furniture shop as background we discussed the night-club scene in Singapore 60s like the ones at Paya Lebar Airport, Hotel Ambassador near Katong Park and the Adelphi Hotel at North Bridge Road.

Location shots taken @ Lorgan Furniture Pasir Panjang.

*Article and images from: Marissa Lim's notes personal collection and screen shots from Oak3Films. Parts of the letters have been edited. Copyrights Reserved.

The Lark - 小雲雀 - (1964) *Official Trailer* by Shaw Brothers.

Asian movie superman Sir Run Run Shaw had passed on. As part of his legacy he, with his brother Runme, produced many movies that included Chinese musicals popular even with non-Mandarin speaking public across the region.

Image Credit: SCMP Pictures.

According to Celestial Pictures Limited (Musical - Shaw Brothers Universe Film Collection) on You Tube, SB musicals, "captured the tastes, trend and psyche of the cinema-going public in the 1960s and the 1970s."

As a teen I used to watch SB Chinese musicals in a neighbourhood cinema. Some of the musicals made by these two brothers were, King Drummer, Hong Kong Rhapsody, Hong Kong Nocturne, Le Belles, The Shepherd Girl, Love Parade, The Singing Thief and others. To single one, the 1964 movie, The Lark is a treasure trove of some of the most popular Mandarin songs of all time.

Shades of K-Pop. From SB 1960 movie: Les Belles. Taken from Celestial Pictures Ltd.

Former PM Lee KY said, "The movie mogul will be remembered for his vision and determination in building a movie empire that touched the lives of many (ST: 8/1/14)."

Anyone with a song to remember?

After the wind and rain last night
There's nothing except void in the dream
I'm lucky to have bumped into you
Aren't you coming back...
(Lyrics from a song on SB movie: The Lark).

Celestial Pictures Limited

You Tube video from: Celestial Pictures Ltd.

After 50 years as the church organist Mrs Tan made a genuine effort to adjust to the new worship format.

Image: Google Sites.

Cartoon from: missmusicnerd.com

Play Music Backwards:

Q: What happens when you play "the blues" backwards?
A: Your wife comes back to you, your dog returns to life and you get out of prison.

Q: What happens when you play country western music backwards?
A: You get your pickup truck back, your dog returns to life, and you get your job at the car-wash.

Q: What happens when you play Beethoven backwards?
A: He decomposes.

Quotable Quotes:

"I don't know anything about music. In my line you don't have to." -- Elvis Presley

Dan Drabkin Caricatures.

Image: john fisher cartoons

"Music is everybody's possession. Only publishers think that people own it." -- John Lennon >>

<< "I'm a musician at heart, I know I'm not really a singer. I couldn't compete with real singers. But I sing because the public buys it." -- Nat King Cole

Jokes from: http://playitagaindamon.tripod.com/Jokes.html

Carnegie Hall fame: Janet Basco from The Philippines.

Money To Be Made:

Whenever the opportunity arises and if it's worthwhile news I would include local pop music items from the 80s and feature television shows that were well received. One possibly successful series that attracted Singapore sitting room audiences had cash vouchers given away to lucky winners which included a top prize of $150,000. That was a lot of money, and still is today! In one year alone the production gave away about $1.8 million. This newspiece was reported in a local magazine in 1981.

Yeah, the 1970s ABBA song, Money, Money, Money on TV Show.

Both Local and International Artistes:

The shows were telecast 'live' and included an array of stars that were household names those years. They included Singapore's Kartina Dahari, Ali Ahmad, Paul Cheong, Tony Castillo, Jacintha and The SBC Dancers. There were guest artistes from overseas and it included Jennifer Yen from Malaysia, Janet Basco and the WEA Dancers from the Philippines, Linda Lou Allen from London and The Wright Brothers from the US.

Jennifer Yen, Malaysia's Sweetheart in the 80s.

Yes, and these stars were at the peak of their career during the 70s and 80s. The host for this particular show was, Mr Versatile himself, Tan Swee Leong who has been featured on this blog a couple of times. (Check Labels below).

Paul Cheong: when he was at his best. With SBC Dancers.

Tan Swee Leong Show Compere

Carnegie Hall, Malaysian Talentime:

Janet Basco is a Filipino singer. She is known for her hits, You Made Me Live Again, Minsan Pa, and My Girl, My Woman, My Friend where she sang with heartthrob and countryman Jose Marie Chan, two of the few Filipino entertainers to have ever performed in Carnegie Hall in New York.

She represented Philippines in the 10th Tokyo Music Festival in 1980 and in the Asean Song Festival in Indonesia. She has appeared in numerous concert halls internationally. (Listen to her on Right Bar of this blog).

Jennifer Yen, who was known as Malaysia's singing sweetheart and a winner of the RTM or Radio Talivishen Malaysia Talentime Competition sang selected songs from her two English albums. She was poised and captivating with a pleasantly charming voice that was still easily recognised.

Kartina Dahari was honoured in a show @ Esplanade in 2013.

They had been together for many years and appeared on Filipino television regularly in the 80s, sometimes accompanying singers as background dancers but usually highlighted as group performers on stage. Like Singapore's Sunny Low Dancers during the 60s, The WEA Dancers were just as well-known in the 80s. They proved their talent when they appeared on this show with the SBC Dancers.

Tony Castillo helped to build the music scene in Singapore.

Honoured By Esplanade, Boy Wonder, London, Broadway Jazz,

Our own recording artistes Tina Dahari and Ali Ahmad need no introduction since both were regulars on the small screen (19 inches only remember?) over both the English and Malay radio stations. Kartina was featured recently at the Esplanade in 2013 where artistes of yore sang her hits from the 70s.

Broadway Hits from Linda Lou Allen

Tony Castillo was of course the jazz musician and singer whom Louis Armstrong called Boy Satchmo and arranged to have him perform at the Ed Sullivan in the US. He had a big-band group, The Castillians that played in Europe and the United States. Boy Wonder Castillo died at 64 in 2010.

Paul Cheong was a home-grown talent and according to the magazine, "proves that he is capable of much more than cutting albums and spinning discs." Another artiste in the series, Jacintha is a Singaporean singer and actress, well-known in parts of Asia-Pacific since the '80s.

Linda Lou Allen, based in London in the 80s, sang romantic ballads and Broadway jazz hits during the show. She was known for her versatility, energy and hot numbers.

80s WEA Dancers. They are on You Tube.

So what's the name of this show? Anybody still remember? Let me know. No prizes for the correct answer but it's so easy with clues everywhere. Which show can ever give away so much money?

Information and Images: Radio and TV Times 1981 and Google.
Thanks to Mun Chor Seng.

*Singaporean Is Elvis Presley Of Vancouver Canada

Devilish Damsel: Halloween Hantu Horror

Silver Strings Play Songs By Local n Foreign Artistes

Seriously Seductive Seniors: Silver Strings Session

Penang Doc Lee Congratulates C/W Star Bobby Bare

Silver Strings Perform For Boys' Town Charity

Cuppa, Pinta: Enjoy English T-Set @ The Pub

The Silver Strings Rocked Orchard Road Central

Airport Song: Allan Thompson's Flight For Singapore

Airport Song: Thompson's 1964 Flight To Changi.

Walk Right Back With Everly Bros @ Sungei Road

50s, 60s, 70s Music Everywhere, But Where? Ambassadors Of Music.

Peek Into A Peep Pop Show Souvenir Programme

X-periment, Mandarins, Tokyo Square Get Together

Is Sakura Teng Really Quitting The Stage?

Yusnor: 250 Songs Prolific Talent Heartfelt Lyricism

Changing Recreational Landscrape: A Nation At Play

Pop Musicals: Run Run Shaw Runs The Show

"But I Didn't See That The Joke Was On Me..."

80s Stellar TV Show With Much Cash Give-Away