RINGO STARR COOKING SO MANY PROJECTS

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THE WEB GOSSIP
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The guy or girl that writes this column is a very big industry insider who wishes to remain anonymous, but wants to write about all the headlines happening in Hollywood and the Music Industry.
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Ringo Starr


RINGO STARR --- I don’t know about you, but I have always loved Ringo. From his Beatle-days to his guest spots on so many different recordings; movies; TV … anyone remember his NBC TV special for his album Bad Boy, in 1978? He’s put out about a dozen or so solo albums which have all been delightful in their own way. His song “Photograph” is a solid-gold, signature song that brings a smile whenever I hear it, as well as the “No No Song.” He famously did several albums with the irrepressible Mark Hudson before they had a major falling out and even hooked up with Eurhythmic-Dave Stewart for last year’s terrific Liverpool 8 album. His latest release, Y Not, via Universal, is noteworthy for several developments. First, it’s the first one he’s produced by himself; second, Paul McCartney sings on one track and plays bass on another; and, third, the opus features his new brother-in-law … Joe Walsh! My, imagine having Joe Walsh as a brother-in-law? Must be a lot better than it sounds at first! I had the pleasure of meeting Ringo’s barrister (Bruce Grakal) several years back, he’s also Micky Dolenz’ guy, and in a late-night dinner/schmooze-fest at Palm West, he regaled our entire group with several delicious tales of the doings in the biz. Every so often Ringo’s name would be referenced too and the thing we all realized then, was the fact that we ALL loved him. The track “Peace Dream” references John Lennon several times, this is the one were McCartney adds bass, and it’s simply terrific. Not only due to the references, but the spirit of the song. Outstanding track! “The Other Side Of Liverpool” harks back to the early days of The Beatles and references the wonderful ‘Roy Orbison’ who the group opened for several times back in the day … and, was also a Traveling Wilbury with George Harrison. Written with Stewart, it rocks heavily and again, the spirit is infectious. “Walk With Me” is the much talked about track where Ringo sings with McCartney. Ringo sounds great, McCartney a bit too winsome. One of the reviews I read on this album posited that Ringo is never afraid of harking back to his roots, where McCartney often doesn’t. I don’t know about that sentiment, but Ringo indeed relishes it and if you’ve followed him, as I have, it’s a delight. And, why shouldn’t he? I mean, few of us have had a life even approaching his. Jealousy … perhaps? Another Stewart/Starr track “Time” is also terrific. It’s the third track on the album that features violin and it works very well … perfectly suited for Ringo’s voice. Another track “Everybody Wins” (co-written with the great Johnny Warman who wrote ‘Runaways’ with Ringo on a 1992 solo album and was one of the first artists signed to Ringo’s own Ring-O Records back in the day) is another big favorite. Ringo’s always had the ability to select the catchiest pop tracks and this one rate with his best work. Right on there with “Weight Of The World” from that 1992 album Times Takes Time. Interestingly enough, Gary Wright and Edgar assist on the background vocals. “Mystery of The Night” is written with Richard Marx, and while the track contains some of the famous-Marx-schmaltz-tricks, it’s another standout track. Starr has always functioned best with a collaborator, Hudson, Stewart … on this album its multi-instrumentalist Bruce Sugar. He co-produced the album in addition to playing on most of the album. I only know a handful of radio stations that could even contemplate playing this album … and, that’s a shame as it rates with his best solo works ever if not THE best. Where’s Alison Steele and Scott Muni when you them? Also, on the album are Joss Stone performing with Richie on the track “Who’s Your Daddy.” Ringo’s great … no question ever about it. btw: He gets his star on Hollywood Blvd. today! Thanks to Harry Weinger for hooking us up with a copy.

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Pete Townsend


HIGH NUMBERS --- That was the original name for The Who who were absolutely rivetingly good at the Super Bowl last night on CBS. Let’s face it: you got one of the best audiences ever, many half-loaded, and most of them have been listening to this group since the 70s … so, they were due at this event. My friend Keith Girard said he was surprised they went with them at all … but, with three of their songs on three CSI shows each week … they've never been bigger. It was PR-guru’s David Salidor’s first concert ever … at The Lido Beach Club in Long Island around 1970 … so, their music has definitely become the soundtrack of many generations. They opened up with “Pinball Wizard” and ended with “Won’t Get Fooled Again.” Roger Daltry and Pete Townsend looked and sounded terrific; Zak Starkey (yes, Ringo’s son) on drums was terrific; and the laser, fireworks and light show wasn't bad either. I loved Bruce last year, McCartney and Prince … but, I think The Who topped them all. Awesome show. Let’s see, they've had Paul, Prince, Bruce, Billy, and now, The Who … who’s next? Dylan? Yes, The Kids Are Alright!

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Gloria Gaynor


WENDY KAY --- We had a chat with Wendy Kay from the Utopia booking agency and while we’ll have the full interview in a future posting, we figured we'd bring you some juicy highlights of our talk. Utopia and Wendy are currently booking the awesome Teen Idols 2 show with Micky Dolenz, Mark Lindsay and Peter Noone. Here a brief take: “My Dad originally ran the agency (then called Mars), and he had a heart attack. My mom asked me to help out … and, I never left. I’d go to see my Dad in the hospital and tell him about what deals I did that day.” “I’ve been Mark Lindsay’s agent for about 20 years and after talking with my partners, who rep Micky and Peter, we conceived this brilliant, interactive show. The three of them are on stage at the same time … it’s really terrific to hear these voices sing on each other’s songs. They’ll be in Las Vegas this spring. Mark will be in NYC at Town hall performing with his band in March.” “I have always loved classic rock … but, I love Duffy and Adele as well. Music thrills me … always has.”“Every year we design different themed shows. We’ll also be rolling out A Love Affair, which will feature Gloria Gaynor, Maxine Nightingale and Peaches and Herb. Disco /R&B … a terrific show of each. We’re also doing some shows with Pablo Cruise and Bonnie Tyler. The venues love the themed nights because they sell a night of memories and the show is produced with one band. Check out Wendy's site here....

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Colin Firth


A SINGLE MAN --- I know I’m a bit late to the game, but I just caught a screening of Tom Ford’s wonderful movie, starring the wonderful Colin Firth. I’ve been a Tom Ford-fan for quite some time … starting with his game-changing ways at Gucci and more recently at his own Tom Ford Designs. I think that not only has he definitely cemented his stock as a style-icon, but his works (photos and all) are stunningly special. Part Versace, part Armani, but all his own. His attention to detail is extra special. The movie, based on the book by Christopher Isherwood (set in Los Angeles in 1962) recounts the aftermath of Firth, after the death of his life-partner. Told bluntly and honestly, I think it’s the best work by Firth so far; and, I especially loved his work on the film Love Actually in 1993. Julianne Moore as his broken-neighbor, harboring a loss much like his, is totally spot on and for me, attests to her work as a major actress all over again. A bravura performance for the ages this one is. Working with a Brit-accent, she’s flawless. Both have been nominated, Firth for an Oscar too … I don’t think he’ll get it, but it’s a breathtakingly good movie and very, well-deserved. Emotive, stirring, compelling … brilliant!

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Howard Stern


A STERN IDOL --- Howard Stern as the replacement for Simon Cowell? I love it. I’ve known for Howard for years, in fact when I lived in Amagansett, his house was literally the next beach over. Whenever I’d see him town, he’d be chased by fans and the paps alike … and, you know what ... he couldn’t have been nicer. His concern always was for the rest of the townsfolk and for his privacy. He is the one star I can think of that actually does get it. He is simply perfect for this possible new role. Much to my chagrin, I’m sorry I didn’t think of it first. Not only does Stern have the chops for choosing the best and the rest, but his attitude in a no BS manner would be not only similar to Cowell’s bluntness at times, but downright funny. His better half, the winsome Beth Ostrosky is one terrific gal, and truth be told, the two of them are one power-couple in the best possible terms. I actually cannot think of a better choice! Here’s to the idea the year so far … terrific! I’ve never been an AI-devotee, but if Howard joins up, I might just give it another spin.
Photos By: Sara De Boer/RD/Leon/Kirkland/Kabik/Walter McBride/Retna

Comments

Anonymous said…
You must have been watching a different Superbowl half time show than the rest of us. The Who were terrible. Out of breath and offkey. Take them to the nursing home. Just because they are on CSI does not make them relevant. Damn Janet and Justin. We will never have a decent halftime show again.
James Edstrom said…
That was the view of our writer. Didn't watch nor did I care....lol

James Edstrom