We’re kickin’ the week off with some early Babs (1965) — this is not a performance to be missed! Key change is at 1:44, but you are short-changing yourself if you don’t watch this whole video.
Tag: 1960s
The Temptations | My Girl
The Temptations had plenty of hits, but 1965’s “My Girl” went straight to #1 and probably remains the group’s best known release. Co-written by Smokey Robinson, the tune featured a trademark early Motown sound. The modulation is at 1:43.
The Mamas + The Papas | Dream a Little Dream
This 1968 hit from The Mamas and Papas is probably the most well-known of the many versions of “Dream a Little Dream,” which was originally recorded in 1931 by Ozzie Nelson. Modulation at 0:58, then reverting back to the original key at 1:18 (etc.!)
The Toys | A Lover’s Concerto
A contribution from MoTD member Paul Steckler:
“Multi-modulation madness! The Toys sing ‘A Lover’s Concerto’ (1965), based on a melody usually attributed to J.S. Bach, with modulations at 0:50, 1:21, 2:09, and 2:25. Who can keep up?”
Connie Francis | Where the Boys Are
Here’s Connie Francis singing “Where The Boys Are” (1961), with a key change at 1:23. Written by Neil Sedaka and Howard Greenfield, the tune was the title track of a movie of the same name in which Francis had a starring role and reached top 5 in both the US and the UK.
Diana Ross | Soulful Strut (Am I the Same Girl)
An extra for the weekend … a guest post from member Paul Steckler. Prime US television variety show fare! The music starts around 1:30.
“Here’s some modulation action for you! Diana Ross dancing to ‘Soulful Strut,’ also known as ‘Am I the Same Girl’ (1969).” After some stage banter, the music starts at 1:31. “A modulation of dubious taste at 2:50, then a series of modulations at 3:54.”
Patsy Cline | Crazy
We’re throwing it back with Patsy Cline’s “Crazy” (1961), featuring a subtle but effective modulation at 2:00. Considered a top Country classic, the tune has also been covered by Willie Nelson (its author!), Leann Rimes, Linda Ronstadt, Shirley Bassey, Guy Lombardo, and Chaka Khan.
Beatles | Penny Lane
This 1967 Beatles release (a “double A side” 45 with “Strawberry Fields”) reached the top 5 across Europe, the US, and Australia. Written about Paul McCartney‘s childhood neighborhood, the tune alternates between its verses and choruses and then nearly reaches its end before final modulation at 2:34.
Judy Garland | As Long As He Needs Me
Today we feature the incomparable Judy Garland singing “As Long As He Needs Me” (1964). Not many can match her in terms of raw emotional power, and she certainly delivers here. Key change around 3:15.
Barbra Streisand | Jingle Bells
Happy end of the week! Today we feature the incomparable Barbra Streisand singing “Jingle Bells” (1967). This gem is packed with modulations, both rhythmic and harmonic. It’s short so I won’t point out where they all are — you have to listen to the whole thing to get the full effect. Thanks to Bryan Wells for sending this in. Have a great weekend!
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