Archives: August 2001

Oops...forgot to link the two thoughts, LOL. The point was that Norman was one of the scribbling on said notes. As in "wish list."

Mags

Connie...Sparks Connie?!

It IS great to see the efforts Rhino is putting forth. Thanks for letting everyone now about the PAX commercial...gonna see if I can catch it. I just wish we could have seen more effort mustered around HN release. :O(

Mags

HEY JIM!!!

And...Monster! Another Beckley masterpiece.

Mags :O)

Can't agree more, Andy. And I know that Erin (SgtDrkness) would hope the same some day! I would LOVE to hear more Silent Letter circa...TT and 1960 to go with All My Life.

Mags :O)

Robyn:

Have to laugh about Norman. For fun, a group of us put some notes onstage Saturday night at the Sparks gigs, and Gerry had a real fun time reading! That would be an absolute blast...you are so right!

Mags :O)

GREAT AND LIVELY DISCUSSIONS GANG! (And 1,751 hits so far today. Is that a record Steve?)

Yohnny Sauce --

You just talked to Dan Peek Wednesday night; it's too bad that you didn't ask him your questions then! Will you be talking to him again this Wednesday?

Ingrid Pie

------------------> Yep, when Beech is missing, part of the folder's personality is missing . . . : (

Cornwall Blank

Loved the bought / born discussion. I always thought it was "bought", but "born" had crossed my mind as the possible lyric. "Born" definitely brings an added romantic element to the song, but it is one of my favorites regardless. Thanks, Connie, for the PAX update. Now I will have to tape PAX until I see the commercial! Brad

Hello, everyone. I have enjoyed catching up on the last couple of days' postings this evening. I agree that there have been several great choices for favorite "rare song to hear live." I have been fortunate to see and hear America perform several of the ones mentioned in the 8 concerts I have seen of theirs through the years. They used to do a great combo of "Old Man Took" and "Daisy Jane" where Took would fade into a soft piano solo by Gerry and then he would start Daisy. I saw them perform in Atlanta during the '96 Olympics. They did "Sergeant Darkness" that night, much to my surprise and delight. I have also heard them do "Here" a few times. Are all of you aware that their concert versions of it include an extra guitar jam at the end? I can't wait to see the boys in Peachtree City, GA one week from tonight! I will post a report on the show. As for my choices to hear live: the 2 new songs, Hat Trick, Old Man Took and Whispering have to be at the top of the list. Brad

Thanks for that info, Connie. I was wondering what the "as seen on TV" on the outer wrapper was referring to.
It's a great cd - worth buying for the better quality of the old stuff and TWO GREAT NEW SONGS!!! Got mine at Borders as a feature for $12.99. They only seemed to have three, and I almost didn't see them because they weren't in the bin under "America", they were up along the top of the bin in the display area.
Top down on my convertible, beautiful San Diego weather, new America tunes on my car stereo. It doesn't get much better than this!
(Except seeing them live, and doesn't look like I'm going to the Coach House!)
ShariL <><

Hi -
I was watching PAX TV this afternoon and saw a commercial for America's latest Greatest Hits CD. Included was some neat concert footage. It's great to see that Rhino is promoting this new release. The commercial opens with the guitar riff from Ventura Highway, so maybe it'll catch the ear of some of the younger generation that have only heard Janet Jackson's song. Hope the commercial brings back old fans and piques the interest of new ones. Best wishes on the new release, Dewey and Gerry!

Connie

Good one, Jim! I had to look back at Pat's post to catch what you meant but when I did, it jumped out immediately.

Regarding the "bought/born" discussion, I was quite surprised to read that SO MANY thought the word was "born". It makes you wonder what other lyrics we're divided on but have never discussed.

you mean OLOOLOLO ! another masterpiece for the ages.

Wow, I can't believe it, that after all these years of hearing Three Roses that the correct word is bought and not born! Ever since I first heard the song (sometime around 1973) the lyric sounded to me like the word 'born'. And when I purchased (I'd rather say 'purchased' and not the word 'bought' L.O.L.) my AMERICA COMPLETE song book back in 1977-78 (for $9.95), the lyrics were written as 'born' and thus completely validated and convinced me of what I believed the lyric to be! Obviously, the persons involved in the transcription of the song heard 'born' also. And even though my concept of the song has now been completly destroyed (thanks to none other than the song's creator! good grief!) and in view of the fact that I've been listening and playing the song for over 27 years, I am going to willfully NOT acknowledge the correct lyrics in favor of what I prefer the lyrics to be! >>>>>> L.O.L.!

I would like to personally implor Mr. Bunnell to reconsider the lyrics of Three Roses and rewrite them because I like 'born' better.
LOLOLOLOL.

Jim...Gerry's love songs have me hooked...especially On Target and In The Dark from Like A Brother.

Don't forget the greatest love song of them all. As Sir George once said about SARAH, 'only GERRY can do a song like this.' At one time was a true concert favorite, but I don't think GERRY & DEWEY want anyone to go home sad. But whoah for the gals in the crowd who had the name SARAH ! They would take the song rather personally.

Sarah please ...
where is the love you said you'd save for me ?
am I a fool to think something's strange ?
I think you've changed ...
G. BECKLEY

Hey Pat,
Thank you for the compliment. Mostly I just play and sing at home. And most of my friends say, Do ya know anything besides America? I usually tell them, not much. I have always loved the harmonies on Muskrat love. I was lucky enough to hear it live in '73 and it was just as smooth on stage. Thanks again,

Rick

As usual, my comment comes after the question has already been settled! Glad I was right, though. next time, I will catch up on all the posts before I post my own opinion.

As for Pigeon Song - you never know. When I aw them back in 1978 in Prtland (Maine, not Oregon - and no, it's nowhere near New Zealand), as a joke they started playing the Monkees Theme at one point during the show. As I recall, it got quite a laugh from the audience. So if they can do that for fun, they might sneak in Pigeon Song sometime just to see if anyone's paying attention.

It would be so nice to hear SGT. Darkness on stage. I know it was done before since it's on one of the live CDs.

A great song with Dewey's vocals would be TALL TREASURE.

Hope everyone is doing well :-)

Andy

i always thought it was "bought", but at times when I listen to it, it sounds like Dewey's saying "born". I always just thought it was "bought" because it makes more sense.

As far as songs I would love for them to play live - "Here" is a definite, like so many others have suggested. Also Cornwall Blank, Old Man Took, Monster, Moment To Moment...too many to choose from! Was so glad to be able to hear Wind Wave live last summer and I hope they keep it on the play list long enough for me to hear it again. Also looking forward to Border, Baby It's Up To You.

Lovely Night. I love the bouncy feel. Pigeon Song ( c'mon Dewey, sneak it in!)NORMAN!( if I can't get them to record it, then another live rendition of this haunting tune will suffice)

I love the lyrics to Cornwall Blank.
Sometimes the free thoughts clash
Sometimes I see through the grass
Sometimes the light begins to dim
Somebody should come and be me
Somebody should come and free me

I like the ending as well, wrapped in a blanket, lyin' in the snow....I also like Sergeant Darkness by Gerry....

Kiri/Johnny/Ingrid/Kevin/Kim/Jim(Did I leave anyone out? If I did sorry). WOW guys:o)!!!! I'm impressed, good song choices. Kevin, just like my beloved Hat Trick, Pigeon Song is a long shot as well, but I keep hoping.I'm on my quest! I have people at work singing You Can Do Magic, so anything is possible!!!LOL. Ingrid, I love Cornwall Blank and think it would rock in concert. How about Greenhouse/Even The Score/& Hell's On Fire? Kiri...Clarice is such a haunting tune by Gerry(You are coming up for a b-day) and I love Here as well(Jim). Johnny, I like Might Be Your Love (that's from Alibi right?). I also wish that they would play more from Human Nature. I would love to hear Hidden Talent live(I'm not too demanding am I?LOL). Keep the posts coming! Everyone join in!!! As long as they aren't in the current rotation! And you can list as many songs as you want!!!Have a safe and happy Labor Day weekend!!!

....I would love to hear live "Garden of Peace" and like Ingrid "Cornwall blank" I love what I think you would call the tag on that song: "Wrapped in a blanket, lyin' in the snow
Feelin' like the men felt a long time ago
Goin' to find me a home, goin' to build it with my hands
Can't you see there's food to be grown
Got to dig up, dig up the land"

...Johnny, good question..could the answer be in the second verse?
"If I were you
I'd throw it far away
But if you were me
You'd tell me I should stay"

It would be VERY COOL to hear from the person that "Three Roses" was written for and what her thoughts are about the song, but I doubt that would ever happen. Here's to hoping and wishing, however!!!

Kevin's latest post made me laugh too! Actually, all his posts have today.

jy------>noticing Beech's absence

I'm not convinced either Kevin. I'm sure your five kids were BORN, and not simply bought with three roses. Don't know why, but your simple Three Roses reply had me rolling.

I remember an interview with Jackson Browne where he said when he was singing a particular song to his then-wife, he sang it one way and she heard it another. He said that in essence, since he was singing the song for her, that what she heard was just as valid as what she heard. Since the song means so much to you, Kevin, perhaps this is the view to take!

I know Dewey Bunnell says it's bought, but I'm still not convinced.

KevinS.

I'd like to hear in concert "Might Be Your Love" or "Right Back To Me" from a great album that should have resulted in a couple of major hits in the US.

Cool that the "bought/born" issue was settled so quickly and directly by Sir D himself and thanks to SL!

I sure would like to know if the trio had ever heard of that first America group. You know the one that put out that 45 titled "Don't Make Me Over" and "Don't Forget About Me"? I guess I'll have to ask D or G the next time I see them in person...around 2009 based on the average of my being able to attend an America concert. Or, perhaps I can ask Dan via brother Tom .

There's also the question of such things like the true meaning of "writing on their sleeve" and what was it exactly that the boy found on the ground on Dewey's song "Children"? I do have an idea. Do any of you?

Here ...

within the time we've spent,

wondering what we meant,

by living all those years ...

G. BECKLEY

Thanks, as always, Steve. Nice to know that at the very least my hearing remains intact.

Kevin, your hearing "Born" instead of "bought " explains why you had five kids, you romantic guy you!

That's what I have in a old America music book. (bought)

I asked Dewey what the lyrics were and this is what he said: "Steve, ...you are right...it's 'bought'... dewey"

Tim, the cleanup did not change any default settings. It simply removed users who haven't posted anything this year. Your registration wasn't touched. You must have done something on your end to increase the font size.

Fun and lively chatting today "you people."

Great Mona Lisa comment KevinS., LOL.

I've thought it was "bought," but I think "born" is much more ethereal and romantic!

Angie: I wanna hear Submarine Ladies and Molten Love live. Also Cornwall Blank -- it could really rock the house.

I always thought it was "Three roses were born with you in mind."

Born seems more romantic, that these roses actually came to being because of you, whereas bought seems like he just picked them up on the way home. Nice gesture, but not the same as flowers actually appearing on the earth due to your loveliness.

My god, I'm turning into a sensitive guy. Please, won't you help me, my dear.

KevinS.

Ok, should be "bite into my Blimpie". Sorry!

Did anyone else notice that the picture of the guys on the Coach House site appears to be circa 1980????

Very good Kevin!!! Just as I was about into my Blimpie too! I am still ROFL.

What song would you like to hear in concert?

Clarice.

"Three roses were born"? Wow, I have always thought it was "bought" myself and I still hear it that way. It would be most interesting to hear what Dewey says.

It sounds to me like on "World Of Light" that Gerry is singing, "I can't wait for the MOANING light" but I know it's "morning". I guess it's merely a bit foreign-sounding to me because of my ears being use to hearing a West Texas drawl ya'll.

Regarding David's mention of no response to some of his posts, I'm quite sure his posts aren't intentionally ignored. I guess what I'm trying to say is that some messages on this folder are posted merely as comments rather than questions. I don't know if that's the case with your posts David, but I bet it won't be that way anymore! :0)

Mike B's post was quite interesting to me. I really never mean to offend anyone here (except one person from the past and he knows who he is) with my comments and questions. I know I have but I really never intended to. In two cases in the very recent past (Howie and Spurs), I merely meant my comments to be topics of discussion rather than offensive opinions or statements. I'm glad to see Spurs' return and I would really like to see Howie's too.

Regarding KevinS' analogy, it reminds me of MC Hammer's song, "Can't Touch This", but with an alteration to "Don't Wanna Touch That".

"Born" seemed to definitely work for Kevin!

I always heard "bought", but 'three roses were born" is an interesting concept. Not as unique as my favorite misunderstood lyric ( not an America tune) "There's a bathroom on the right" ;0) Can we get a clarification from Mr. Bunnell?

There's a whole group of us who had not only vinyl to go by but AM radio at best. SO... many lyrics of so many songs were (sometimes humorously) reconciled only years later, after we were already ingrained with what we thought was. The advent of the CD spoiled many dreams.

I, too, also thought for years that, "Three Roses Were Born". I still don't know.

I always heard "born" as well.
Have a SAFE weekend, everybody!
ShariL <><

I am sorry that you feel ignored,David. I'll try to do better, Keep posting!

Steve:

Never mind ............... it's everything on the web, not just here.

Tim

Sorry Dan, I haven't made it into the chat room lately. The Los Angeles Public Library is closing and moving branches in order to build new ones. I have moved seven so far in the last eight weeks. I go home and collapse. This cycle "should" be finished by mid September, and I should be back by then. Ths Coach House gig is my reward for hard work!

Kevin: I love the analogy, LOL! It's defintely made me think about it!

Mags :O)

I also thought it was "bought," since the word just seemed to fit. In-te-res-ting. LOL.

Mags :O)

Steve:
Did the cleanup perhaps change any default settings? Something seems to have increased my diplayed font size. Though I can still read the posts, just not what I'm used to.

How can I get back to the days of old?

Tim

..thanks Jeff for the correction…….all I know is that a guy by the name of Chuck who once owned Hogan's music store here in Lake Elsinore had a son who played with Alison Krauss… so my assumption was that his last name was Hogan….his son is the blond hair guitar player in Alison's video's

..I also always heard "three roses were born" but "three roses were bought" seems to make sense..…but who knows cause "there ain't no one for to give you no payne"..

..and I truly enjoyed all the fan song covers……

I'm glad Dewey and America are getting some well deserved recognition for the Janet Jackson song using Ventura Highway, but I still think it's like ruining a classic, like wiping a booger on the Mona Lisa.

KevinS.

Welcome David,

I want to here the opinions of America from all you lurkers. I skim over the post regularly and don’t acknowledge most posts that peak my interest due to time constrains. I do like hearing what’s happening with America and hearing the opinions of all America Fans. I also like watching the group dynamics that so many differing personalities spur. For example, Ingrid, Johnny, KevinS, SteveL, or MikeB may inadvertently step on someone’s toes due to different value and/or humor systems. I don’t really believe any of us means to “Flame” another Fan. So don’t take anything here personal.

Keep posting David, you will eventually get acknowledged. Example: I started posting how “Someone to call my lover” was doing when it first hit the Billboard charts. No response, but I felt Fans where interested in the news. But later, (or before), Jimbob gave us great news about the Definitive CD in New Zealand. He didn’t see all our smiles and winks from halfway around the world but kept giving us the great news. Then just recently, Dewey via SteveL, let us know how the Definitive CD and “STCML” were doing. By the way “STCML” is at #3 again this week and has been on the Billboard Charts for 12 weeks.

Acknowledge someone else’s post and you’re sure to get a response.

PS. I though it was “Three Roses where Born” but bought makes sense.
PSS. I second the rants and raves over “Here”. The first Album cut is the best. Nothing can beat that lead by Dan, but it’s fun hearing the Band do it live with Michael’s version of the lead. I really like “Three Roses”, but ‘Here” would be an acceptable concert substitute.

Having heard Here in concert many times, I've got to tell you that it is one awesome song done live. (As it appears on the first album, it's the "best acoustic guitar jam ever recorded in rock history," according to Rolling Stone reader Kevin Sutton. I actually get winded listening to it.) I'm sure it will pop back up in the playlist.

It's hard to answer what song I'd like to hear live, though, because there are just too many, so I'll pick an obscure song that I don't think they've ever done and probably never will, that way, like a true fan, I can always be disappointed. My song is Pigeon Song.

KevinS.

P.S. I wasn't ignoring your posts, jimbob, because you're from another country. Until you told me, I always thought New Zealand was one of the states up there by Maine. My daughter just told me it's a country over there by Australia. Well, what do you know. The internet can be a learning tool. I think it's great that America is number one in NZ. Thanks for keeping us informed.

I always thought that the lyrics were "Three roses were BOUGHT with you in mind". In fact, that's what I have on the lyrics page for that song. I'll have to go back and listen closely to see if I can figure out what Dewey is really singing. Any other opinions on what the real lyrics are?

I also vote HERE ! A classsic by the legendary GERRY BECKLEY. A great song to follow-up to SANDMAN.

I would love to hear "Here" live. That is my favorite song from the King Biscuit Live cd. I'm also with you Angie in that Hat Trick would be great too. Oh, and as long as we're wishing here, if they could do Three Roses followed by Molten Love I'd be in hog heaven!!! I'd have to add Paradise to my list too. Ok you said one, and I listed several - just too many good ones to choose from!! Y'all have a great Labor Day weekend!

Thanks Leak for the compliment; however I cannot accept it because I performed the song 'I Need You' and not 'Three Roses'. By the way, you wrote in your post the lyrics for 'Three Roses' as
"Three Roses were BOUGHT with you in mind". The actual lyric is: "Three Roses were BORN with you in mind".

Speaking of the song contest I'd like to pay a compliment to
Ric Bolling. His singing and guitar playing were outstanding.

Last day at work here up in up state NY. Going to Florida for a couple of weeks and will be seeing America along with Hall and Oats at clearwater florida. Hope they will play their new songs and also keep three roses on the list. Will let everyone know how the concert went and I'm just going to kick back and have a great time.

David and others please post! Don't be discouraged! I'll answer! Give it another try! Hey, all of you out there in America land here is a question. What song would you like to hear in concert? Coming back into the set! Johnny nice joke, I also had to look back to see what Dan.

David, most of my posts get no acknowledgment at all; I was most excited seeing DEFINITIVE move up the charts and posted often to that effect, but I guess that being in a different country to the majority of people here, there wasnt much interest. Thanks though, to those of you who have acknowledged what Ive had to say. I have only been on the live chat once(and posted to say how much I enjoyed it!) and would participate much more often if the computer I now use allowed it. I know I lurked for almost a year before posting so how about hearing from some of you out there! I will acknowledge you, I promise!

Me too (what Johnny said) David. Frequent posters get ignored sometimes too, so don't feel left out. Just keep swinging at the pitches that look good to you. : )

Good one about Dan Peek Johnny. I went back to Dan's post to see if I had read it correctly. LOL

David...my thoughts exactly. Just start posting and get into the frey of things. We all have something interesting to say or point out.

Mags :O)

Give us another shot, David. I'm ready!

About lurking--I am not one, but it is discouraging when I do post something, and no one really responds to it. It's as if only those who post frequently are paid attention to. That's why I don't post as much, because I feel no one listens much. All America fans should be welcomed, I feel, whether they post much or not.

Just testing to see if everyone's awake! :0)

But seriously, it was a pleasure for me to chat with YOU Dan and with the other three fellow fans. You know who you are. It was a small gathering but a very interesting and informative one...for me anyway. One person in particular REALLY likes Dan's "Driftin'", huh Dan C? Interestingly, the majority of the group favored Dewey's "Paradise". But "someone" present last night really likes "World Of Light" enough to almost equal it out.

Believe me, it was absolutely my pleasure chatting with you Mr. Peek!

Nice to finally chat with the one and only Mr. Yee last night. Nice talkin to ya, finally, Johnny, even though the conversation became a little heavy for my tastes. What a diverse bunch we have in here. I was hoping for a group listen with windwave and Robyn, as the ones I've participated in in the past were enjoyable affairs, but we'll hook up again in the future I'm sure. later,DanC.

All those great songs and not enough time in one night to play em, Old Man Took, Company,Green Monkey,Rainbow Song,Hollywood, Sargeant Darkness, Survival, Inspector Mills, Here,All My Life... life shouldn't be so unfair.DanC.

Leakycanoe, currently Dan Tyminski is the guitar player. Ron Block the banjo player (picker) plays some guitar too. I think he's from California?

...was listening to LOVELY NIGHT this evening. ...took me back to 1976 Eleuthera, Bahamas where Reggae was the music of the day. This song was a good fit for the time and place.

JB

It's a bird! No, it's a plane!! No, it's SuperFan, TerryT!!!

I love Three Roses...but what about Green Monkey and Rainbow Song to make a return to the stage again.I love them on the Musik Laden dvd.And you know about my quest to see Hat Trick ride again.LOL. I'm still wondering if the new songs are being played in concert. Maybe they will add them before October.

..it must be that elsinore water....it was Terri T.

..sorry It was Pat Bennett who covered Three Roses..great Job!!!

this is a test....have I been lurking to long and been denied access?....(just kidding Steve)…hey Jeff B. an interesting tid-bit about Alison Krauss…her guitar player who I believe has the last name of Hogan…..is from Lake Elsinore…same place that Michael Woods calls home….I keep drinking the water here but that talent hasn't rubbed off on me yet…

great to here about #1 in New Zealand and I love "Three Roses"…..in fact someone here did a great cover of 3 Roses for the fans song contest, I think it was Terry T., I'll have to go look......

"Walking through a wonderland, I got you by the hand
Every move we made, just as if it were planned
Three roses were bought with you in mind
Three roses were bought with you in mind"

Maggie: I don't know you and as far as I know have never done anything to personally offend you. If I have, please tell me about it so we can clear it up. I have always felt welcome to share my experiences and opinions on this folder. I don't understand your recent hostility toward me. If you don't like or agree with what I say, hit "NEXT" or post a differing opinion in a civil manner (see Robyn's recent post) but please stop insulting and patronizing me. People who continue to insult others are banned from this folder.

Wonder if America is planning to perform either new song in concert? I hope so.

KevinS.

and the sound on the cd is MUCH better ( could just be that I have a better sound system in my car!) I am enjoying both tunes, this has just whetted my appetite for MORE NEW MUSIC!

This message is mostly for the lurkers but it may apply to some of you who post regularly. I noticed that there were a lot of people who had registered on the Chat Folder but hadn't posted anything during the year. So I went through and deleted the registrations for anyone who hadn't made at least one post since December of last year. That shouldn't affect any of the lurkers unless they decide to come out of lurkdom and post something. In that case, they'll need to register first but that only takes a minute or so. It's also possible that I accidentally deleted the registration for someone who has posted this year (although I don't think so). So, if you all of a sudden can't post anything anymore, either let me know and I'll put the registration back (I did create a backup) or simply register again. Thanks, SteveL

Right on, Jeff! I'm in full agreement with you regarding "World Of Light" but I liked it from the start.

Since Jeff mentioned another musician's work, I'd like to plug a wonderful Christian CD by lead singer of the band, David and The Giants. It's David W Huff's solo CD titled "Really". I think very highly of it. It's available from WWW.GiantWorld.com. There's probably soundclips available to listen to there also.

This song has really grown on me...the sax, the guitars, the piano.

Does anyone besides me like Alison Krauss and her band? I have most of her bluegrass cd's and her more contemporary sounding cd FORGET ABOUT IT. She has a recently released cd that I'll be picking up soon. Her bass player plays the upright acoustic bass...some of us hicks call it a bull fiddle. I love the sound of it.

JB

Maggie:

Was that on Dinner and A Movie?

Tim

WHOOOOOOOOPPPPPPEEEEEEE!!! GO AMERICA!

Suffice to say the symbolism of MY screen name isn't lost on me. Sorry, but I don't see the fun in slamming the artists and true fans. Yes, exactly...for the most part this IS a friendly neighborhood. The mood and demeanor have changed over the years, but those who really have something to say about the music are always welcomed by one another. I had this "flame" all typed, and then I remembered that's precisely the reason after so many years that I, and many others, stopped posting here for a while, or at all. It got ugly with back-biting, controversies, snide attitudes and innuendo. And if you wanna play "groupie," I think the 'N Sync folder is just down the hall. As far as personal insults and hurting others' feelings, perhaps you should go back and read a bit of what you have posted.

Steve, I will send you the 1972 Rock Magazine as soon as received, so everyone can have a look-see.

Mags

Great news. Has anybody checked the Billboard Top 200 album chart to see if it has cracked the chart? I checked online, but they only list the top 100 online.

Regarding "Three Roses", I think it's a special song written for a special person during a special time. I really like it so please don't till the garden or wreck the "Greenhouse".

Like "Three Roses", I also enjoy "Oloololo" a lot.

While I'm here: I consider Ing and Mags as my two friends who just have differing opinions...very differing! :0)

Amazon.com has rated the "Complete Greatest Hits" as a "Bestseller", with a current sales rank of 145. Way to go guys!!!

What Mark, not giving up your ringside seat to schmooze with fellow fans? Ok I will se you at the second show ( you have tickets for both, right?)

Three Roses is one of my favorites, the guitar is so clean and IMHO the lyrics are not weak at all. they are JUST RIGHT!

John: I agree with you that Russ Ballard's drumming on Your Move is weak. But that got me to thinking (sorry): It's been almost 20 years since an America album has had great drumming. Since 1982's View From The Ground. That's a shame. It's also been about 20 years since America has had a top ten hit. Since 1982. Maybe, just maybe, there's a correlation. Since view we've had Ballard's drumming on Your Move and drum programming on Perspective, and most of Hourglass and Human Nature. That becomes even more evident when you listen to the new Greatest Hits and hear the great drumming on their early stuff.

KevinS.

I'm sure the symbolism was lost on you. And your screen name is quite the misnomer! Not very much fun, huh? Anyone can hurl personal insults, however "subtle" they might be. I hope that you're done with mine. This is usually a very friendly neighborhood, complete with people doing kind things for one another and apologizing when they've hurt others' feelings. I, for one, like it better that way.

First album - Riverside
Latest album - Paradise
Definitive Dewey imo.
WOW - #1 in NZ - great news jimbob, and congrats to Ger and Dew.
There must be a trip coming our way soon!
For me - I'm off to Europe for a "holiday" - first time on the northern side of the equator, alas not able to visit the States this trip, but my wife Terri wants to get there someday too, so who knows what the future holds? As long as it includes our America, we have a lot to treasure between the bookends of Riverside and Paradise.
Next stop, Germany ..... auf wiedersehen....
Chris

Congratulations lads on "Homecoming" & going #1 down under!
I love the new tracks, also took the liberty of putting "complete" on the new release rack instead of hiding it, thought I would help out the clerks at the store.
ANYONE have the bass tabs to "LETTER", I have the riff down, but then get lost in the mix. In fact, if anyone knows of ANY AMERICA bass tabs it would be greatly appreciated. (David Dickey, are you out there??)
Oh...not only is "3 rose's" great, the whole 1st album I could never part with, if I ever had to pick "just one" it would be that one.

i've gotta chime in on the 'three roses' discussion. ...my former all time favorite america song. deposed this spring by 'hat trick'. it has fallen on my list to #3 behind 'another try'. i LOVE that song. i'd like to meet fellow chat folder fans @ the coach house but wouldn't like to sacrifice good seats. is there a way to have our cake and eat it too? mark

In my humble opinion, the song Three Roses is the epitome of what makes AMERICA, AMERICA. It contains all the elements that are essential to my reasons for loving AMERICA: all acoustic guitars, an unusual and original chord progression, unique rythemic strumming, semi abstract lyrics, great harmonys (including the typical "ba-di-da-di-das"), a killer acoustic guitar solo, all that and a strong melodic bass part that can stand all by itself equals 1 truly great masterpiece of a song. I'm not surprised that it's been a part of the live show for all these years.


PS; Hey Beech; you and I share a similar AMERICA experience: like you, America was my 2nd album purchase after Homecoming.

pb

How many of you folk have seen an AMERICA album at number one? I did today. DEFINITIVE is at number one in the biggest retail chain in New Zealand! As for Three Roses, I rate it as possibly my favorite song ever!

Hmmm...wondering why if "Dewey's girl" doesn't care for Three Roses, why she rushed the stage, with roses in hand, during said song? Guess the symbolisn is lost on me then, if it wasn't to celebrate both song and artist.

Let's see...pets shops were closed but Pigeon Song isn't in the playlist rotation, anyway. Tin Men are too heavy to heave. Tim, help me out here...LOL.

I know...let's get back to the music and talk about the new release, instead!

Mags :O)

Actually, since you say you don't care for Three Roses, shouldn't that be when birth control is on your mind? :O)

Mags

Go Jim, go Jim, go Jim...

Three Roses is a MASTERPIECE and one of many early songs that will always say "America," to me. It's got a beautiful, open, clean acoustic sound, and those lyrics that Dewey does so well. What's not to love???

Mags

Food for thought, Dan. LOL. And Tery and Tim can be jesters-in-waiting. :O)

Mags

The " Roses tune"?? Please...DanC.

1. I'll grant that the Roses tune is catchy, but IMO the lyrics are weak. Usually DB hits a home run on both. When pregnancy is on my agenda, however, I'll keep what KevinS. said in mind.

2. Terry IS mayor of the chat folder.

3. When was DanC. elected MEMBERSHIP CHAIR?

4. Red Oak, if you would, for the Australians and me, a post-concert review of the LRB.

and get that fabulous little ringing bell twirl sound that DEWEY so faithfully executes near the 4th fret. Agree THREE ROSES is a masterfully done acoustic blanket, the instrumentals alone could stand on their own as can the lyrics - layered together you have a masterpiece. All part of the genius that is DEWEY BUNNELL. Have 6-string will travel ...

Let's see, can't get into Three Roses and just listened to Hourglass for the first time a month ago???? need I say more... Oh how about KevinS. for jester of the folder.DanC.

Well the guys are finally in my neck of the woods. Anybody else going to Asheville to see the concert? Its going to be a great setting ,outdoors in the mountains of North Carolina. There is also a world class winery at Biltmore estate. Maybe I will run into the guys sampling the many different wines that they produce. I hope so !!!!!

Terry should be mayor of the Chat Folder.

KevinS.

Janice...

Peace and blessings to you. I'm sure you know you have the love, strength and support of all here!

Take good care!

Mags

Hello everyone,with "Homecoming" grabbing platinum status and America recieving a platinum disc rather begrudgingly and belatedly for another million sales notched up for "History" also New Zealand doing "our boys" proud with a gold award (so far) with the definitive set one would think SOMEONE at Warner Brothers would be putting two and two together.I hope America make it down to NZ and tour which would surely see them achieve platinum.I beleive "Your Move" came out hot on the heels of "VFTG" to keep the ball rolling after the success of "YCDM",with America being showered with gold and platinum awards they have still only released two studio albums in fifteen years.I wonder about Oxygen perhaps we have heard nothing from them as they were aware of the Rhino releases over the last year or so.

TerryT wrote: << I think Three Roses kicks some serious unplugged acoustic butt...Dewey's awesome rythym chords with Gerry's embellishment and lead, along with Dan's melodic bass lines... >>

I agree wholeheartedly. 3 Roses is a real acoustic gem, especially Dewey's rhythm. I've been accused on a few occasions of being a pretty decent rhythm guitarist and I've yet to master the rhythm pattern of that song. I can do a pretty close approximation of it for a few measures, then I fall to pieces. That rhythm is incredible! My goal is to master it before I die!

..it would be great to meet between shows....however, when those of us who attend the first show exit, those attending the second show will be in line to enter....you will not want to get out of line if you want to get a good seat....maybe if we all pin a rose (or three)on our shirts we will be able to spot each other and say hi....any other ideas....

for those attending the same show a great place to meet would be at the bar that is located on the back wall center stage....restrooms are located right of the bar...and the entrance is left of the bar...the floor is straight down.......

for best seats you will want to be in front of the line...even if you have dinner reservations.....

The only America album that I have a complaint about regarding actual sound quality is Your Move. For whatever reason, I think Russ Ballard did a real amateur job on that effort. Maybe he had no choice -- maybe the original masters somehow were accidentally destroyed, and what we hear is all he had left. Who knows? Whatever the reason, the result is the same. Sure, songs like "The Border" have lush orchestration behind them, but even they sound somewhat tinny and scratchy. Dewey's voice didn't seem to be captured well on tape on the album, regardless of how well he was singing, like on "Don't Let Me Be Lonely" or "My Dear". The bass is about the only thing that stands above the generally fuzzy sound of the songs. The drums are indistinct, which is okay, since the drumming by Ballard was repetitive and mediocre at best. I used to think it was due to the LP I used to have, but even the French remastered CD a couple years ago wasn't able to do much for that album.

Who knows... Maybe Capitol demanded that America cut costs for the album and not hire many session players (perhaps the London Symphony Orchestra cost more than Capitol would have liked). Or maybe Ballard just ran loose on an ego trip after "You Can Do Magic." After all, it seems like he didn't even care much what Dewey and Gerry thought about what went into that album. It's a real disappointment from Ballard, who has generally written and produced some good music over the years.

john

Is it just my ears? The sound quality of the WB/Rhino CD Releases is head and shoulders above Capitol. Maybe I like the Warner years better than the Capitol years, simply because Warner’s sound quality is so much better. Even the Human Nature recordings sound better than those released by Capitol.

Survival was never a hit in the US, like it was in other countries. In fact I don't know that it was even released as a single in the US. But it is included on the Definitive America release, which is Rhino's international version of Complete Greatest Hits.

Alibi has been released on CD in the US and France. You should be able to order it at Amazon.com. It's funny that all of the Capitol albums have been released on CD in the US, but most of the WB albums which sold far better and were much bigger hits have not. The weakest commercial WB studio album, Hat Trick did better than the best Capitol album, View From The Ground (28 on the charts vs 41).

Survival was never a hit in the US, like it was in other countries. In fact I don't know that it was even released as a single in the US.

Alibi has been released on CD in the US and France. You should be able to order it at Amazon.com. It's funny that all of the Capitol albums have been released on CD in the US, but most of the WB albums which sold far better and were much bigger hits have not. The weakest commercial WB studio album, Hat Trick did better than the best Capitol album, View From The Ground (28 on the charts vs 41).

It is my understanding that the Platinum certification for Homecoming is long overdue. I have heard that Homecoming along with several other America albums (such as Holiday and Hearts) actually sold more than a million copies back in the 70s, BUT they were never officially certified by the RIAA. For an award to be made the record company must submit certified sales numbers and pay a fee to RIAA. The Platinum award wasn't even created until the mid-70s, and America left WB in 1977. So WB had little motivation to submit any of America's albums for Platinum certification, since they had left for another label. I believe even America and History weren't officially certified until the late 80s when they were released on CD. I guess that was done to support the marketing of those releases. I suspect that the Homecoming certification is being done at this time for the same reasons. WB/Rhino are planning on doing a new release for Homecoming and it's easier to promote if it has Platinum status. If they ever decide to do domestic releases of Holiday and Hearts, I wouldn't be surprised if those aren't preceeded by a similar Platinum certification.

Btw, the 4 million certification for History is about 15 years old. From what I have seen History's sales are more in the 6 million ballpark now.

Well, first a huge applause for Homecoming!! One of my favorites!
Second, I would love to be at the Coach House (and you will love it, Robyn) Just eat before you go, due to limited elbow room.
Third, I am back from my trip after a wonderful weekend in Phoenix and ust one day at the spa. Without going into detail, I have suffered a major setback with my cancer and returned home yesterday. No, Robyn, sadly I will not be joining you for the walk. In fact, Amcerica will be in my city next week and I will not be going. Take care everyone.
Janice

That whole first ALBUM is a gem! I'll never forget the first time I listened to it (it was my second America purchase after Homecoming). It was unlike anything I'd ever listened to and was one of those 12 year old magically induced moments! (C= Now everytime I listen to it (either in snippets or A-Z) I remember lavendar walls, purple carpet, purple mushroom lamp, homework and the smell of Mom's cooking wafting in.......

TkH<--------------+=! Feelin' Groovy

I think Three Roses kicks some serious unplugged acoustic butt (at least musically) and it's not like they've been playing it forever lately. Dewey's awesome rythym chords with Gerry'embellishment and lead, along with Dan's melodic bass lines now performed by Brad. Add Willie and Woodzy for seasoning. This isn't just one of the rare love songs that Dewey gave us, it's a good SONG, too, in my aged opinion. Maybe my favorite America song ever. I've listened to it enough to suspect that the chorus (repeating part) was cut and pasted from tape (spliced) so that it only had to be taped once way back when. The perfection of the recording is reflected in their live performance.

Here's some information on one of Rhino's auctioned items from EBay.

Autographed Highway: 30 Years of America Promotional Poster from the Box Set

This handsome framed poster was released as a promotional item for Rhino's deluxe 3 CD box set of America's music. The poster features the cover art from the 3 CD set and is autographed by band members & Grammy Award winners Gerry Beckley and Dewey Bunnell.

Formed in London in 1969 by Dan Peek, Gerry Beckley, and Dewey Bunnell, sons of U.S. Air Force officers based there, the group America scored a deal with Warner Bros. in 1971, then harmonized their way to #1 in 1972 with their debut single "A Horse With No Name." The trio's acoustic guitar-driven debut album, America, sold more than a million, the band snagged the Best New Artist Grammy® that year, and their fame quickly spread worldwide. After their move to the States, America's subsequent string of hits defined mellow rock in the '70s and '80s, but the group's dozen-plus albums‹six certified gold and/or platinum‹displayed a much fuller range of the trio's talents than the singles. After Peek's exit in 1977 (he became a noted contemporary Christian artist), Beckley and Bunnell carried on, and the duo's musical growth has continued to the present day, with such impressive releases as 1998's Human Nature.

Now you can celebrate three decades on three CDs with the Highway box set‹the first and only collection spanning America's entire hit-packed career, featuring singles, album cuts, and previously unreleased tracks from six different labels (including Warner Bros. and Capitol). Co-produced by the group themselves, the box's liner notes contain extensive track-by-track comments from all three founding members, plus commentary from America (and Beatles) producer Sir George Martin. Official America Site: www.venturahighway.com

Poster measures approx. 22"x36" and is professionally framed in black wood, plexiglass, and acid-free papers.

Three Roses should be replaced with Muskrat Love!!!!!!!!!! I agree with you Ingrid, 3 Roses doesn't do much for me either. They should replace about 5 of the songs on the set list every so often for freshness. Re-introduce some of the older, never played much tunes with updated arrangements. Then, put out a CD of one of the concerts or a string of concert recordings for a new Live Concert CD........ That's my XMAS wish!

Agree re Homecoming fully deserving Platinum. But is that right - Holiday and Hearts have not been released in CD form in the States? I have a Warners Australia Holiday CD and an EMI Australia Hearts CD. I'll have to buy another Holiday soon before I wear it out.....lol.
By the way, we have not had an Alibi CD that I have been able to find Down Under. And I say that Survival is one track that should have made the Complete CD.
Chris

Hey, Jim..how be you?!

One, two, three, indeed! LOL.

The Coach House is a GREAT venue. Hope everyone has great fun!

Mags

you should be ok, but still get there early. AMERICA sells out 2 packed shows & there is always a rush to try & secure the front row. Also you may want to check your maps since the Coach house can be missed from the 5 freeway. It is in sort of a business strip mall & can be missed. AMERICA rocks the socks off of this crowd in the Coach House's wood structure. The walls & windows tend to vibrate a bit. All AMERICA energy !!! ONE nite, TWO shows, THREE ROSES !!!

Yes...you rang???? LOL

:O)

:-X

I have WAY too much dignity to go there...LOL

Granted I've got the import versions of Holiday and Hearts, but why on earth have the 2 not been issued domestically ............ Holiday has 2 Top 5 songs on it. Hearts has 2 Top 20 songs including a #1, plus another fringe hit in Woman Tonight..

Go figure.

Tim

Congratulations to Dewey, Gerry, and Dan on the certification of Homecoming's platnum status. Homecoming has always been my ultimate favorite AMERICA album. yEaH!

I agree Angie! Way to go! Homecoming has always been one of my favorite albums. Not a bad song on it. It also made me realize how cool my mom could be. She bought it for me for Christmas!

Way to go guys(Dewey/Gerry/Dan)an overdue honor. It is about time that Homecoming gets the attention it deserves!!! So many good songs from that album...Ventura Highway...To Each His Own...California Revisited. Has anyone heard the new songs from the Rhino release played in concert yet?

Ok. I really thought you were kidding, as Three Roses is one of MY favorites, so I can't imagine anyone NOT loving it. To each his own.

Okay LA-DIES, there's no need to get SNIP-PY! I'm entitled to my opinion. Dewey Bunnell is one of my favorite songwriters, but I don't care for "Three Roses." Never have. Doesn't mean I'm mentally ILL -- just means that I have different taste than you.

Now Mark, about those "lap seats" . . . .

WAY TO GO GUYS!!! That's fantastic news. Thanks, Steve, for sharing with us all! GO AMERICA!!!

Mags

Thanks for the info Steve and a well deserved congratulations to the band!

Just wanted to let everybody know that according to the August 18th issue of billboard Magazine, "Homecoming" (1972) has now been certified for Sales of 1 million copies, thus attaining "Platinum" status. The Update is courtesy of the Recording Industry of America which keeps tabs on sales figures. The current revisions reflect the period through July 2001. This is the 3rd Platinum award for our guys, following the 1972 Debut "America" and the late 1975 release of "History" which to date has been certified for sales of 4 million copies! Lets extend congratulations to Gerry & Dewey and also Dan Peek for garnering another milestone in their careers. As for questions about sales figures for "Holiday" (1974) and "Hearts" (1975),I would imagine it would be quite some time before those titles ever reach 1 million. First off, they are only available as Imports, and while they sell well, The RIAA doesn't keep tabs on import titles. Both LP's have been certified "gold" for previous sales of 500,000 copies--but have never been issued domestically.

I haven't been there either. I hope my seats are as good as your are Mark! Does anyone want to arrange a place and time to meet between shows? See you there!
And I do believe Ingrid's tongue was firmly in cheek when she made that OUTRAGEOUS statement! If not, Girl, go for therapy!

Awww...now don't say that! Personally, I'd like the guys to be able to play Three Roses at both shows and for Pete not to have to prowl the stage. Give it a rest, already. LOL

Mags :O)

Uhmmm...not that great of a song anyway??? I think you may have one or two or several thousand who disagree. Toto, I don't think we're in Kansas anymore. LOL. Maybe you should switch your focus from horticulture to psychology.

Wow! I've never been the subject of a hidden message before! LOL

Mags

Ter,

No, no...that's for the transportation, not the Prada. LOL

Mags

i've got tix for both shows. never been to the coach house before. the ticket guy said i was the second guy to call for one show and the fifth guy to call for the other show. he said i should be sitting on their (dewey's & gerry's) laps. do i still need to tip the host(ess) to get those seats?? see you there.

I had five kids to Three Roses.

KevinS.


Hmmmmm. Me thinks that a new fertility treatment has been discovered. Who would have thought that it comes wrapped in a brown CD case with three guys on the front, and three Indians Behind them???

Andy

Sure leaky, meeting up will be great. I have to come from Downtown LA and wasn't sure I could make the early show. ( I don't get off work till after 5 and traffic out of the central core is brutal) I am planning on staying down there for the night. ANyone else going?

A true fan would attend both shows. It's on a Friday night, what more do you want!!!!! I bet Ingrid will be at both shows.........

Robyn, just ordered our tickets for the coach house, 8PM show...the 10PM was just to late for my old bones...and I really didn't want to drive that Ortega Highway after midnight...maybe we can say hi between shows....anyone else going?

I think the sound quality on the Complete Greatest Hits CD is excellent. The songs sound even better than on the original CDs. I noticed they used the original mixes of the older songs instead of George Martin's remixes from History. That's ok by me since with the exceptions of Don't Cross The River and maybe Only In Your Heart, I liked the originals better.

All in all it's a great CD and the liner notes and photos are great too. Rhino always does an excellent job.

I had five kids to Three Roses.

KevinS.

You'll have to tell me who Miss Cleo is Mags. David Letterman had a fan who thought he was sending her encoded messages during his television show. "Sell everything and move to New York to be with me . . ." : )

Yohnny: Fortunately I "ducked" in time and it wasn't too messy for me. I'm afraid that most of the @#/% hit the star. Maybe it's time "Three Roses" came off the set list. It's not that great of a song ANYWAY! But it WAS a great dramatic backdrop . . .

Making enemies without even trying (sigh)----------------------

September 17, 2001
Buenos Aires, Argentina
Salon San Telmo - Sheraton Hotel
Ticket sales at Ticketek 4323-7200 or at Sheraton Hotel

Tery (Beechlady), I have uncovered your "hidden" message so that it now appears in message 18351. The problem was that you accidentally typed in an HTML code (as you suspected) and that's why it didn't show up.

Just picked up the Complete History CD and there was a promo sticker on the shrink wrap that stated, "Classic Cuts From Every Album."

Now I'm trying to decide if that statement is correct ..................

There is not a song from every America studio album ......... nothing from Human Nature, Hourglass, Harbor, Silent Letter, Alibi, or Perspective.

Perhaps the wording meant to imply that every classic cut was included from every album that contained a classic hit. And I suppose the term "classic cut" is subjective. Complete does include every song that charted on the Billboard Pop Chart, Hot 100.

Complete has a lot of good songs and by some definition contains all the classic cuts, but some of my defined "classic cuts" from the unrepresented albums are not on the CD.

Tim

"Great news from Dewey re all the current chart action happening - maybe "Paradise" could get some airplay soon?" Chris

Are you talking about the new song, Pair Of Dice??????

Tim

I had a "hidden" message in there (apparently). I'd like to know why you can't bracket things......is it because this is html. driven? What a BUMMER.....that's happened to me SO MUCH posting here...lol! Guess I'm a "mystic" afterall!

TkH<-------+=! psyCHIC

arriving in style, $100.

WHERE ON EARTH DO YOU SHOP? I NEED TO KNOW!!!! ((((C=

TkH<---------+=! Will be BROKE after this party...rofl!

Now that you've apologized to the music deities John, may I suggest a simple offering? You must play Hat Trick BACKWARDS 5 times and take the CD cover and rotate 6 times counterclockwise.......oh wait a minute, that's the "sorry-I-haven't-posted-in-a-while" remedy....um, NEVERMIND...lol!

TkH<-------+=!

Regarding the roses, I don't know. I think maybe the only HIT was when the $#@* HIT the fan. And I'm not necessarily talking about the type of FAN that rotates. :0)

Can I throw in some Alibi and View From The Ground just to be sure?
j

Hmmmmm...just don't end up like Miss Cleo. I think HER intuition didn't seem to help much with either the police or IRS. LOL

:O)

...and add a sprinkle of Silent Letter, Hourglass and Human Nature, and you're good to go!

Mags

Hmmmm...let's see...

A ticket to the gig - $35. Arriving in style - $100. "An Evening with America" (acoustic...you should SEE my presumptuous wish set list!) on Tery's lanai - PRICELESS.

:O)

Mags

Well heck you guys! Maybe my Reno roses were a hit after all. Just seven days later, SteveL has a message from Dewey. Hmmmmm. I think subconsciously he loved them. Okay, wait a minute . . . I'm getting a message now too . . . . LOL

Beech, I'll bring the tiny paper umbrellas.

--------------Still receiving message

John, you've been in the sun too long. Take discs 1-3, play repeatedly, and call us in the morning!

Ok, I now know I am no longer worthy of either lurking or contributing here. I haven't listen to Ventura Highway for awhile and today, as I was working outside I put on Highway. When VH came on, I said to myself, "Oh, there's that new Janet Jackson song." I humbly throw myself to your collective feet.
j

So, Beech, would we need to bring our own lawn chairs too? A little bulky as carry on luggage, however. Count me in! LOL.
ShariL <><

I'll tell you what. If we ALL CHIP IN and pay for one night on my lanai (everyone invited to join in on the fun), I'll tape it and "license" it from them! BBQ, BYOB. I figure now that I'm home and have some "time", I should do SOMETHING fairly constructive....lololol!!!!! So what's the going booking rate? Anyone know FER SURE? ((((C=

TkH<--------+=! present and previous flamers NOT invited (ROFL)

Maybe "Ten Men" would have rhymed better ....lol. I have a Capitol/EMI release of "View From The Ground" that shows the title track as "You Can Do Music".... what the?
Great news from Dewey re all the current chart action happening - maybe "Paradise" could get some airplay soon?
Chris

Just got back from a free concert by Gary Lewis and The Playboys. They played a 6 song medley of Beatles music. Guess what the first song was? Yep, "Things We Said Today"! Last night's free concert was The Kingsmen of "Louie, Louie", "The Jolly Green Giant", and "Little Latin Lupe Lu" fame.

Thanks... Do you think the guys will be doing something (Video) in the near future. I'm sure with all the resources available it would be great to see a spin off on DVD/VHS of a similar "Highway 30 yrs" type realese.

Thanks... Do you think the guys will be doing something (Video) in the near future. I'm sure with all the resources available it would be great to see a spin off on DVD/VHS of a similar "Highway 30 yrs" type realese.

SIX degrees? I'd think more like six hundred for Mr. Yee...lol!
(C=

TkH<--------+++++=!!!!!

Six Degrees of Separation, INDEED! I'm glad we have a handful of resident comics, LOL.

Regarding "Tin Men", could be worse I guess. At least they didn't list the two new songs as "Whirled Delight" and "Pair Of Dices". :0)

"Tin Men"...wasn't that a comedy movie about shady used car dealers starring Danny Devito, Richard Dreyfuss, and Seymour Cassel? And didn't Seymour Cassel star in "California Dreaming"? And didn't America cover a Mamas and the Papas' song called....well you know! So strange how things are connected, don't you think?

Also, country singer Kenny Chesney currently has a big hit on the country charts called "The Tin Man". He also had a CD from a couple of years back titled "Tinman". But 'The Topic Sir Dewey Had' was way before the Devito, Dreyfuss, and Cassel movie and Kenny Chesney's song and CD.

Oh, Tim....you so PHUNNNNNNNNY.....lol!

TkH<----------+=! Uncrossing my eyes

CD Now has most every America album and the prices aren't bad.

However, if one orders the Complete Greatest Hits through them, one gets a song not available through any other source .......... Tin Men (track 10).

Tim

'Excellent new material FROM you guys'. Dan 'r' key keeps sticking.

Thanks, Dewey!
It's almost like you posted here or something. Good to hear from you and thanks also to Steve for passing it along. Excellent new material fom you guys. I share the good feelings about the latest wave of international AMERICA recognition and may it grow.

tt <---- Wasn't so bad after all, was it?

Itamar, I haven't heard anything about a Rio concert on Sepember 21st but I'll check and see what I can find out.

Thanks much Steve for forwarding Dewey's reply. I thought I heard Jeff...wasn't sure. Kudos on the rest of the news, too!

Mags

Have a relaxing and enjoyable time, Janice, and take good care! It sounds like absolute heaven...

Mags

Thanks...much appreciated.

JB

Hi! Is it true that America will perform in Rio, Brazil, on Sept 21st???? (I hope so:)

Im so pleased the guys are aware of how well the DEFINITIVE CD is doing down here in New Zealand. I have posted a lot to that effect! Dewey, please come back to Auckland for a show, the time is right! Auckland has changed considerably since you last played here, thanks mostly to the Americas Cup yachting which really put us on the map! AMERICA, you are most welcome back here!

Thanks for the info Dewey via SteveL. I really like the exotic feel of "Paradise" and power of "World of Light".. Let it rain. Great to see you guys on the charts again. Maybe there is still hope for your fabulous new material to chart someday. The Complete Greatest Hits CD, now on Utah shelves is being marketed with the line "As seen on TV". Anybody know what TV spot is selling the CD?

Maybe this has already been said but I just got this message in my Inbox today:
"America was one of the biggest folk-rock bands of the early 70s, and their shows continue to sell out all over the world. Now, you can get America's reissued "Greatest Hits," featuring "Horse with No Name," "Ventura Highway, " "You Can Do Magic" and more-- at CDNOW for 20% off!
PLUS, you'll save 20% on EVERY domestic (U.S.) America title in the store. It's all part of a special weekend sale, going on Friday, August 24, 2001 through Monday, August 27, 2001.
Choose from "Human Nature" ($13.58), "Hourglass" ($12.79), "Alibi" ($7.98), and more at great prices!
To save 20% on all America titles at CDNOW, go to:
http://cdw01.cdnow.com/Click?q=09-jooSIj8rsYcxYspz6kgbUCg9

Not spoiled, just well taken care of (lol) Will I see you here in October for the Carlwalk ,Janice????

Jeff, I got the following reply from Dewey:

As usual, I play my acoustic guitar parts and sing, and Ger has provided the rest on "Paradise". We discussed giving the song an exotic/eastern feel, and Ger found all the cool sounds in his bag of studio tricks... he could probably tell you the specifics. I think the sounds all work well together at providing the "paradise" ambiance we were looking for. Jeffrey Foskett rounds out the mix with his vocal harmony parts.

On another subject, the gang might be interested to hear that "The Definitive America" is #2 in New Zealand (we are gold, headed for platinum down there!), and the Janet Jackson single "Someone To Call My Lover" has jumped from #12 to #3 this week in the Billboard singles chart! All very positive.

Glad a great time was had by all in Reno!
I am heading out on vacation this weekend..visiting friends in Phoenix and then checking into the Miraval Spa in Tucson for a week of horseback riding, hiking, exercise, journal writing, fresh air..and overall peace and quiet. Mom and Dad insist on my going and they're coming to watch the kids. Am I spoiled or what?? Lol...

The Lady of Beech!

Sorry I have been away...life has a funny way of doing that to you. But I'm happy to say my 78rpm ticker is fixed, so no more boring the nurses to death with my CD collection and wandering the halls, hooked up to wires, LOL. Hopefully we will get reports from the Canada shows!

What I really want is a Gene-o sighting! Gene...you still knockin' 'em dead out there???

Van Go Gan Tidbit:

I was asked to speak at a meeting today and I was early. So I'm sitting in my little red Camry, listening to VGG's Now Sue. Wasn't I surprised when I turned the CD player off and grabbed the keys to exit the car, and I STILL HEARD NOW SUE PLAYING. Yours truly figured I was in a bad X-Files episode, or something. Turns out, was a guy in a car two cars over from me. I approach him, grinning like an idiot, and he realized before I that we had been listening in tandem. Anyway, his name is Gerry (no foolin'...I saw his press pass!) and boy, did we have a lot to talk about. Turns out, he liberated VGG from a friend of his who got it while living in Japan for a short while. Gerry said he fell in love with the CD right away, not making the connection that it was Gerry Beckley of America fame. You see, he pilfered said CD from his friend sans liner notes. Turns out, Gerry is a HUGE America fan, so I gave him my card. Knowing I'm a diehard America fan, for fun, a friend of mine who owns a printing shop added the America website URLs to the bottom of my personal biz card order, only to see if I was paying attention, but they have come in handy! Needless to say Gerry is one happy camper and looking forward to seeing some shows this year.

Mags

Thanks Steve. I get into the instrumentation as much as the vocals.

JB

Well, I ordered my tickets AND made my dinner reservations! Who else is going?

MAGGIE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
God, I'm glad to "see" you!

Glad you had fun at Sparks, hope you keep on postin'here!!!!

TkH<-------+=! snooty? HA!

Jeff, I'll check with Gerry and Dewey and see what they say about the instruments being played. I know that saxophones are being played in "World Of Light" and I'm guessing that they are baritone and tenor saxes (according to my daughter who plays the saxophone). I really like the way the saxes are incorporated into the song. If Gerry or Dewey let me know of any other instruments, I'll be sure to pass it along here.

Got the new songs today in Athens. Got the only copy in the store. The songs sound much better on my stereo speakers verses the little muffled sounding ones on the computer.

Steve, is it possible Gerry or Dewey could let us know what instruments are being played on the new songs?

carry on...JB

Ok, ok. I appreciate the spin you guys are giving me on this. And maybe I should reevaluate Janet...she must listen to America to have asked for the riff! But ooooooooh. Not yet. Gimme some time.

Thanks for your responses! See you in the Chat room later on??
Stay Tuned!

Would be nice to see a new CD. Seems like one or two songs come out and they put it with the best of america. You end up spending money on songs you already have and only getting one of two new songs. Im a america fan but I would like to see new material.

Spurs, I agree with your comments on the new songs, and I think it ridiculous that in the three years since HUMAN NATURE we get only two new songs! What makes it more crazy is they are so good.(I didnt expect otherwise.)I know that these greatest hits packages are really for the casual fan but that doesnt help the serious fan hungry for new stuff.It must have been exciting in the seventies waiting for each new release from the band. The first 'hot off the press' album I bought was VFTG and I had been going to the record store every day for a week or more waiting for its release and I bet I was the first in NZ to buy it! I still think that album cover is very cool. Same scenario for YOUR MOVE (didnt like cover so much tho) and PERSPECTIVE. HUMAN NATURE wasnt even released down here; I saw it advertised in an English music magazine and got a record dealer in New Zealand to bring it in for me.(I didnt have internet then)Can anyone tell me who would release a new recording by the guys? I know I go on a bit about this, but after the success of the DEFINITIVE CD in this country, it proves that all that is needed is promotion and if its good, it will sell. It is and it did. A lot.

Actaully, I'm not a Janet fan either, but I really like what she did with this riff, it develops into a *wonderful* chorus. This just might bring the Major 7th chord back to pop music!

Steve...LOL...I bet they know every word to every song! Yet another generation of satisfied fans!

I too actually dig the JJ tune And heck, if we can't hear America songs utilized in movies, as I feel warrants, or even the burger commercials using all tunes retro, then by all means, why not allow one of your masterpieces to be sampled.

Mags

Beth, yes the Janet Jackson song has been discussed several times here. She licensed the guitar riff from Dewey so it was done with his knowledge and his blessing (and it's totally legal). In fact, the VenturaHighway.com web site has a link to the Janet Jackson page so that America Fans could vote for "Someone To Call My Lover" to be her next single. It obviously won the vote because it has been released as a single and is doing very well. Personally, I like the song. As a side note, I was playing the song on my computer last night (along with "World Of Light", "Paradise", and "In The Dark") and my 10 year old son happened to hear it. "Hey", he said, "that's a copy of an America song!" I've trained my kids well. --SteveL

Maybe this has already been discussed....Has anybody heard the rip-off Janet Jackson has done of the guitar riff from Ventura Highway?

I was standing in my local Subway place, ordering up a couple BLTs, and heard Ventura Hwy music on the radio, but...mixed with drum machine and some other go-go funky sound...and then, a woman's voice. Well, I was so mad I yelled at my radio all the way back to my office. "That's Ventura Highway AND YOU CAN'T DO THAT!!" Then come to find out, It's Janet Jackson ripping that off. Well, that made it worse for me. NOT a Janet fan. Sorry if I offend.

What do we know about this business? Does she have permission? Sorry if this has been done already. But oooooooh! It burned me!

The one I wanted was "Another Try", and I was glad that they did that. "Hangover" was hilarious too, considering what Gerry said about the "all-nighter" Hehehe. Jami.

Hello everyone, I prefer "Hourglass" over "Human Nature" but only just.Human Nature had some commercial tracks on it that perhaps fifteen years ago would have been huge hits notably FAMT,Wheels,Pages but having said that Hourglass seemed to have more cohesion sounding as if it had all been recorded at the same time,as opposed to recording when time allows.As for the two new tunes "Paradise" catches the ear, particularly the lyric,nagging banjo and mandolin, "World of Light" is not a bad tune either.With the release of the box set,and complete Greatest Hits there has been some sort of output over the last two years,hearing the two new tunes saddens me a little as there is no new album,must be very frustrating for Gerry and Dewey as artists and have no canvas on which to paint,what is happening with Oxygen?

Thanks to AmericaSL and Robyn for the updates. It is indeed a fund raiser for the local hospital and the price $150.00. I have my doubts that there are 1000 people in Palmdale that have $150.00 but I am sure it is a worthy project.

In an effort to pass America around, I donated my extra copy of "Hourglass" to the local public library. It will be interesting to see how often the CD gets checked out each time I visit there.

When I gave the CD to the librarian, I asked her if she had heard of America. She replied with, "Of course! I grew up in the 70s but I didn't know they were still putting out music." I told her she'll be delighted to hear the music on "Hourglass" if she liked America's music from the 70s.

Mags, you said it so well. And just imagine doing what they do for 30 + years & thousands of shows later & not showing any ill effects. Many celebs are jaded, negative & unapproachable after just a few years of public exposure. But as you said they are cut from that good "bolt" of people, so we should probably thank their parents too. And they love to play music for their fans !!! I guess GERRY & DEWEY just love their work.

I've always found both Dewey and Gerry to be extremely personable and accomodating to their fans. They are both cut from the bolt of "good people" cloth...a rarity, indeed, famous or NOT. To me, who they are, what they do, and how they do it, are a few of the very reasons the music is so good and endures. I try and remember that although it's nice to say hello, ask for an autograph, et al, that they are usually so rushed and road-weary that sometimes they're probably sorely in need of a stolen moment of quiet and solitude. Just my 2 cents.

Mags

Beth,

Well thanks much for the nice words! I enjoyed meeting you, too, and I always love to hear everyone's "Adventures in America." Now that yu're hooked to hearing it live, it's hard to stop, huh? LOL. Hmmm...a 12-Step Program for rabid America fans??? Take care and I look forward to meeting you again.

Mags

Connie,

You must have been the gal at the front table who had the big smile on her face, singing along with every song! I'm sorry I didn't come to say hello and introduce myself...you looked like you were having such a great time! I'm usually a heckuva lot more personable and not as shy, especially when it concerns America fans. Anyway, look forward to meeting you some day.

Maggie

Kevin...my thoughts exactly! When I sat down to have an initial listen, that's the first thing that came to mind, esp the distinction between Homecoming and Hearts material. Homecoming more simplistic, Hearts more progressive. Regardless, they're two extraordinary tunes. Thanks G&D for the new music.

mags

It is indeed their Gala fund raiser. Tickets are $150 each or $1,200 for a table of eight. Anyone want to pick up the tab (lol)? For more info, go to avhospital.org.

Two more things: Wheels is my favorite song from Human Nature by far. I didn't realize until Saturday night that the fancy acoustic guitar work on that number is by Gerry. (Those who have read the Human Nature liner notes more closely than I have will already know this.) Also, got to hear Only in Your Heart live for the first time this weekend. It's also one of my favorites.

Yes, Dewey does autographs. I got his last year at the Palmdale show ( not for me however and I have yet to get one for myself!)

I enjoyed the Portland show under sunny northwest skies on the banks of the Willamette River yesterday. Although Sandman isn't one of my favorites, it certainly stood out. The electrical jam at the end put an edge on their otherwise road-weary hits. These hits really seemed to please the crowd though - and I'm sure this is why they play each night after night, year after year. Afterwards, Gerry was giving out autographs. I remember when I saw them a few years ago, Gerry was signing. Both times no Dewey. Does anybody know if Dewey does autographs after shows?

Moving Train, Young Moon, and Last Unicorn would be great additions. Survival would be a nice addition also.

However, I like to pretend that "Special Girl" just never happened, so I would not support adding it to the CD.

Rich

As complete as the new package is some of the missing hits might be:
"Special Girl" which got some good AC airplay, "Moving Train", "Young Moon", and possibly "Last Unicorn".

All in all I'm very pleased with the selections, the packaging, the new songs, everything!

Randy, the Northrop Grumman Airplane Hangar concert in Palmdale, California is a fundraising event for Antelope Valley Hospital. That's all I know about it but maybe you can call the hospital and get more information. Another option would be to contact Larry Dilley (larrydilley.ldill@verizon.net) who lives in the Palmdale area. He was the one who told me that it was a fund raising event so he may have more information. Be sure to share whatever you find out with the rest of us.

Sorry, was having trouble with the site. I was there Saturday night as well with Dad, we met Brad and Gerry after, and Dad had caught Gerry and Dewey before. All's been said so I'll just say great show guys and I'm looking forward to next year already!

Ingrid, have all the fun you want as DWY's Girl! The three roses sounded romantic, I don't think I would have the courage to do that. It sounded like a night to remember!!!

OK Team America. I'm interested in the Sept. 29th concert listed in Palmdale formerly Lancaster. I've called, surfed, and reserched and this is the venue w/ no name or listing. What better place to see America then "Airplane Hanger" in the middle of the desert. Help me, please!!!!!

I am not certain that either song has a "true" classical America feel to them but they are both good tunes. As for which earlier album these two songs would have fit into nicely, I would have to say Paradise would have been a nice edition to Harbor simply because it was recorded in paradise on Earth. As for World of Light, I think Hourglass would have been my choice because it is mixed with some classic elements and a bit of a slant toward current Top 40 material.

I think a good indication of the strength of both songs is that it's impossible to say which I like better. They both feel like classic America songs. Not of the Homecoming vintage, but more George Martin era. I think both songs could have easily been on Hearts. They're more lush than the simplicity of Homecoming.

KevinS.

I know that Another Try go a lot of airplay back in 74 even though it never was released as a single. That's one of several America songs that should have been given a shot by being released as a single. But it was a hit in its own right, since I used to hear it played on the radio frequently.

You know, I wonder if Rhino released it as a single today if it might not become an AC hit? I think is sounds as well today, I mean I don't think it sounds dated musically. So...

Ing, it never was confusing to me but I know you a little bit better than the "average" fan here since we've chatted personally a number of times and just yesterday.

Everything Ingrid has ever said to me has been clear that she's merely a fan of America who favors Dewey.

Since "Everyone I Meet Is From California" never charted and "Another Try" was never released as a single, does it mean that Rhino and the guys think both songs should have been hits since they're included on the new CD?

I guess they can be "greatest hits" and still not chart or be released as a single as long as they're "hits" to us. I just thought that was a bit interesting.

Okay -- I want to make it clear that I am the fan known as "Dewey's Girl." It caused quite a bit of confusion when I posted from Reno criticizing her in the third person, but I knew that I'd GET criticized for the roses stunt so I wanted to be the first to write about it. Fans aren't supposed to go onstage -- it's an insurance liability for the showroom and it can FRIGHTEN THE MUSICIANS, which it also seemed to do on Friday night. But our seats were level with the stage floor instead of on the main floor below, so I had two choices: Forget about giving him the flowers or get on and off the stage as quickly as possible and get the three roses to Dewey. I chose option #2, but it ended up taking too long because he had turned his back to the audience after the song and I couldn't get his attention. I was standing right in front of Brad and he was looking like the proverbial deer caught in the headlights. I knew that I was risking a scolding from showroom management (received) AND criticism from those who don't like "Dewey's Girl" -- which I now believe includes Dewey himself! -- even though she's never been anything but an enthusiastic fan of America's music. There are also those who have thought that "Dewey's Girl" is after a personal relationship with Dewey. This is not the case. In real life I have a gorgeous hunk of a boyfriend who is young enough to be Dewey's son (Don't get nervous, moms. He's 31 and his mother likes me.) My boyfriend isn't bothered by "Dewey's Girl," so it's been very funny to me that others have been. But he knows me and they don't. Thanks to everyone who's played along -- it's been a blast. If our pictures from Friday night's concert turn out, I'll send SteveL proof positive of my "guilt" and he can post it if he wants : )

Ingrid.

Hey everyone! Here are a few more details on the shows in Central and South America:

9.12.01 Guatemala City, Guatemala / Gran Salon Real at the Hotel Camino Real
9.13.01 Tegucigalpa, Honduras / Coliseo Nacional de Ingenieros
9.14.01 Panama City, Panama / Club Union
9.17.01 Buenos Aires, Argentina / Salon San Telmo
9.19.01 Lima, Peru / Centro Maria Angola

-Erin Edwards (Morey Management Group)

Having come from a Corporate Communications background myself, I must say, my hat's off to Rhino again! The America Complete Greatest Hits is excellent. I particularly like the new song "Paradise". IMHO it is one of the group's best. I'm also happy to see the greatest, most overlooked America hit, "Right Before Your Eyes", included in this package. The album art is particularly well chosen. There is a nice shot of the threesome behind the disc itself. I really think that though we are all loyal fans, this disc truly is the ONE AMERICA DISC to GET or to GIVE.

P.S. Does anyone think that "Paradise" could've fit in nicely on an earlier album, say "Homecoming"?

Concert in Sparks was absolutely amazing. While I have listened to America's music since the early to mid 70's, this year is the first time I have seen them play in concert.

I went to the Lincoln Center show in Fort Collins in March, and the Friday and Saturday shows at the Nugget. Sparks was my first time traveling out of state to attend a concert, but it defintely won't be the last. I now regret even more missing the opportunity to see them play in '91 in Japan.

Thanks, Maggie. If you hadn't asked me to join you at the table on Fiday I never would have had the opportunity to meet Gerry, and Willie nor would I have had such good seats on Saturday night. Thanks to Gerry and Willie for signing my CD's.

I wish I had the opportunity to have gotten Dewey's signature on my Cd's as well. Well, I will just have to bring them next time and hope I get the chance. Thanks guys, It was fun

Thanks for the great reviews Maggie and Connie. America really is the best!

Hi all...

Just wanted to post from the road and say how great it was to have met up with familiar faces, and some new ones as well! I know many of us don't get a chance to see one another for a year or better, but it always feels like no time has passed at all, once we do.

A big hello to Erin, Sally, Lauren, Nancy, Louise, Gary, Barb and Gary, Beth and Rich (and whoever else I may have forgotten, sorry!). A rockin' good time was had by all. America fans are some of the finest people around, I do believe.

Thanks to Ger and Dew, Willie, Pete and Bill for all the great music, and warm hospitality, as usual. Peace and blessings with the next leg of the tour!

What an ABSOLUTE BLAST it was to have heard Wind Wave, Baby It's Up To You and Hangover live!!! WOW!!!

We were treated to the "long set" (whooooppppppeeeee!!!):

Riverside
Ventura Highway
You Can Do Magic
Don't Cross The River
Daisy Jane
Wind Wave
Another Try
Three Roses
I Need You
Baby It's Up To You
Wheels Are Turning
Tin Man
Woman Tonight
Only In Your Heart
California Dreamin'
Lonely People
Hangover
Things We Said Today
Never Be Lonely
Sandman
Sister Golden Hair
Everyone I Meet Is From Californa - encore
Horse - encore

Ciao!

Maggie

Hello - I just had to come out of lurkdom to echo Ingrid's review of the Reno show. I went to Saturday night's show, which was awesome. We were able to get seats at the stage in front of Brad. Wish we could have sat with the "12 special fans" . . . It would have been nice to meet you and put a face with a name. As for the concert, I had never heard them do the Beatles tune, Hangover, and Wheels live, so that was really a treat. A neat thing happened after the show as my husband and I were leaving. He nodded over to the left, and we saw Gerry walk by, stop to read something on the wall and then walk back toward us. I was able to tell him I enjoyed the show as he passed by. I know he was busy, but he thanked me and went on his way. It was a little thing, but that really topped-off an already WONDERFUL evening. --- Connie

You mean if I tell them I know you it won't help, jimnak? ( lol) Guess I am in nosebleed territory. Will try for dinner reservations, have tix for the late show ( hey I have to work in downtown LA get to the Valley and back to Capistrano!) Thanx. Anyone else going?

Thanks, Robyn! I hope to see them too!

Thank you, msmith. Maybe they'll visit Rio during this short South American tour.

I would suggest, get there early. If you have dinner tickets, you will have preferred seating in the front, in fact w/dinner tiks, you can always (discreetly of course, the way a Chicago alderman handles it) slip $10-$20 to get even better seating, but for this to work, you have to be there early. These 2 show concerts have always sold out & the place is packed. AMERICA provides the fuel for quite a Southern California explosion. Be prepared for energy expenditure ! This show of course will be about a month after the release of MORE GREATEST HITS, so maybe bring it along.

Welcome Itamar! I hope you get to see them this tour.

itamar, america is doing a swing to guatemala, honduras, panama, and peru september 12 - 17. maybe you can catch them. click the 2001 concert list link on the home page.

Just bought my Coach House tickets. Anything I should know about the place?

As a long-time devotee of the group (and fortunate to have met them on several occasions), I must say that "Paradise" is vintage stuff! This could've easily been one of the best cuts on any of the early albums. I think it will go down as one of my all-time favorites. "World of Light" is uplifting as well. The package itself is a "must" for every fan. It's all inclusive, and boasts 22 songs, all of them great. There are no skip-overs in this new package. And how often can you say that about any CD you buy?

I wish that I were there!!!!!!!!! Have fun everyone ( gosh I feel sorry for the "erzatz Robyn", anyone unlucky enough to actually look like me...)

Hi, everyone! This is my first post. I'm 27 and have been a huge fan of America since "View From The Ground". I was lucky enough to get to see the guys here in Rio, Brazil, back in 1995 and I was wondering if there are any plans for the band to come performing here again. Thanks and congratulations for 30 years of great music!

Sorry about that Robyn -- mostly sorry that you couldn't be there. I was happy for "you" -- this woman was having a great time. She was a look-alike with the same name then -- she looked similar to the pictures of you that I've seen on this site AND Gerry knew her. He mentioned her from the stage and I'm sure that he called her Robyn! She was also one of the ones who yelled when Gerry would mention "our 12 fans." But Johnny's right -- I was spinning 'round 'round and I'm going back tonight for more.

I wonder if Dewey's Girl will be there tonight? SOMEBODY CALL SECURITY! : )

No doubt that Ing was on a high and was "spinning round, round, round, round" and that may account for the mis-ID. :0)

I sure like, "Let it raaaaaaaaaaaaain"!

Well Ingrid, If you saw me then you were hallucinating. I am stuck in Sun Valley, as work is so busy I don't have a vacation until OCTOBER!

Paradise oh paradise
How very very nice
Come to me
Take me from this world
Of men and mice
Set me free

Summer is here banishing the cold
Ahead I see good times
The bad have all been rolled
So nothin' bothers me
I've got two eyes and I can see
The light in the distance
And its spelt with a capital "P"
For Paradise
Oh Paradise ......
From "Paradise" by Stars, 1975

Same name, but different song - and I like Dewey's better!
After only a few listens, Paradise's sweet melody has lodged itself firmly in my brain, much like Amber Cascades did 25 years ago.
A great song Dewey, and so is World of Light, Ger - makes me wonder why there is no album of new songs at this time....?????.
Chris

Thanks for the review Ingrid. I only wish you also had roses for Dewey too!

Hey "YOU PEOPLE:" What gives? Okay, just a brief now, maybe jockey shorts later.

Gerry's voice was in very good form tonight. Not that I've ever been disappointed, but he sounded especially strong and looked great. Brad stood for the last half of the concert and it sounded like it might have been the first time since he broke his collarbone. Ouch! How has he worn the guitar strap? He also walked over to join Gerry and Woodz for the "horse dip," with Gerry looking at him with trepidation and mouthing "Be Careful!" several times.

I was sitting where I had a very good view of Willie for most of the concert and was particulary impressed with his drumwork on Sandman -- he rocked it. Has anyone noticed that he twirls his left drumstick in the air (like a baton) during Horse?

Two songs that I heard live for the first time tonight: Another Try and Everyone I Meet Is From California. And Windwave sounds better every time I hear it. I recognized Robyn and Erin in the audience and a few other faces from pictures on this site. Gerry commented a few times that he thought that all 12 of their fans were there tonight, which was always followed by hoots and hollers from the audience.

Dewey's Girl was there and she snuck up onto the stage after Three Roses and handed three roses to Dewey. Can you believe the nerve of that woman?! She was sitting on the second tier of the showroom floor which is even with the stage floor, and she just stood up from her seat and walked onto the stage. I mean really, WHO does she think she is?! She needs to be stopped.

Hey Beechlady -- I got a hankerin' for somethin' homemade!

Guess what, Jim. I just had a big break through and I solved the problem (the technical term is a computer "bug" - LOL) I've been working on all evening. So it looks like I'll make it home before midnight. Of course, I'll be back again tomorrow, but at least I'll get a little sleep! I think I need to listen to the new songs a couple of times to put me back in a good frame of mind.

By the way it's Friday evening close to 8:30pm & yes Steve Lowry is still at work w/no signs of coming home soon. Oooh those high tech workers !!! "No relief, only scorn, in a hurricane ..." AMERICA.

Yes, the same is happening again with Amazon. I was supposed to have VGG this week, but two weeks ago they said they were having problems getting it. Now they said it was the end of August/ early September that I would have it. I think I might jump ship and try Melody Blvd. It's a shame because I've gotten other America CD's from them. Right now I'm looking for Live In Central Park video. So that's the story.

Angie, as I was going through the Album web pages last night I noticed that the domestic version of Van Go Gan had bonus tracks but the import version did not. So, perhaps the answer to your question is that the album that is released SECOND is the one with the bonus tracks, whether it's domestic or import. That would still imply that they do it to give buyers an incentive to buy the second one even if they already have the first.

Angie, I originally tried ordering VGG from amazon and after 3+ months of waiting I finally gave up and ordered from melodyblvd and had it within 5 days! I don't know why amazon was never able to ship it to me, because I ordered all of my other America cd's from them and usually had them within two weeks.

It's a good way to sell CD's, but not great for my pocketbook.LOL.Oh well. Hope you didn't mind the question, I'm usually I full of questions. And I've gotten most of my answers from your site. Thanks again! Keep up the good work:o)

Jim, Red Eye moved to 66 King Street. It's across George Street. That's where we got the French CDs of Alibi, Perspective and Your Move. We were in there before Christmas a few years back looking for something for one of our kids. I also headed straight to the A section and was so excited to find them. The problem was that I ruined my Christmas surprise because my husband had already bought them for me.

Angie, I'm afraid I can't give a good answer to your question. All I know is that it's not uncommon for the non-domestic releases to have additional tracks. It started as early as the Japanese version of Hearts which had "Simple Life" on it. However, it sounds like a good way to sell imports domestically - doesn't it?

Could you tell me why the Like A Brother import CD has the added 4 tracks and the one released here doesn't?( I'm still waiting to get Gerry's VGG CD, it is taking so long!!!!) I really like the song In The Dark. I guess I'll go to melody blvd.com. I can't wait for the 21st to get the Greatest Hits CD. Even though I wish for a complete CD just getting two new songs are enough, from two talented guys!!!!

FYI: If you follow the links to the lyrics of the two new songs, you'll see that they were written by Gerry and Dewey.

FWIW: In my opinion I think that Gerry and Dewey put the new tracks on the CD because they love to make music and share it with others. That's what it's all about for them, isn't it?

Well, if those two songs AREN'T by Dewey and Gerry, maybe we should be listening to whoever wrote them!! :)

That's an excellent point about royalties, and I'm sure that as far as the minimal Capitol material both on this compilation and the box set goes, that's probably right on the money. (There are those who will say that their Capitol material just simply wasn't any good, but I'm not one of them.) I'll bet Dan isn't complaining, either. It could help fund another album or two down in the Cayman Islands.

john

John, I wonder if there was another reason Gerry and Dewey worked hard to pursuade Rhino to include two new songs, and even footed the bill. Publishing rights. All the Warner-era songs, while written by America (except Muskrat), are owned by Warner Brothers Music. And the only song of the four post-Dan songs that was written by either guy was half of The Border (Dewey with Russ Ballard). Getting two of their songs on a greatest hits complilation gives them a bigger cut of the pie. Very smart. (Assuming the wrote these songs.)

KevinS.

You're right Kim, It is a good lazy summer day song. I'm looking forward to the CD next week so as to hear it on something other than computer speakers.

JB

If the past is any guide to the present, then I'll bet Dewey and Gerry had a large role in persuading Rhino to put two new songs on the new compilation. Dewey had remarked that when Rhino had approached them regarding what would eventually be the Encore project they agreed to go along with it, provided that they could put a few new tracks on it. The way the record company sees it, the improved compilation is a way to boost sales of a profitable catalogue of music. The way Dewey and Gerry must surely see it, it's a way of getting a new EP of music out there that large numbers of people will actually buy and to show potential labels that they're still making new music good enough for another shot at a full album. A series of articles came out around the release of Human Nature that hinted that several labels would jump at a chance to sign and promote America -- as long as Dan came back. Whether that's fair or not is for each of us to decide. But the labels seem steadfast in their opinion that America is better remembered as being an acoustic trio than for any specific music they put out. They would probably liken Dewey and Gerry as America to the series of Crosby/Nash albums that came out without Stills over the years... close, but not the same. Do I agree with that? No, but I think that's what's going on here.

john

It's interesting how we differ on which of the two songs we like better. Although I like "Paradise" very much, I'm pleasantly overwhelmed by "World Of Light". Have you ever purchased an album or CD that's music from the Olympics? I think "WOL" could easily be an inspirational song like that.

I've discussed the two songs with two other fans who haven't posted their thoughts here. They both like "Paradise" better. One of them mentioned that "Paradise" had the feel of Dan's "Driftin'". I would have to agree. He/she also mentioned that they think there's a "little part that's identical to FAMT"!

Jeff, I agree with you regarding Paradise - it does have kind of a "far eastern" feel at first, but then I feel myself being whisked away to the beach and a hammock and a lazy summer day in the tropics. I love both of the new songs, but I think Paradise is my favorite.

Kim

I'm afraid I fall into the Tardy catagory (Hat Tricky maybe then Hearty for the latter)

I'm an Hourglass girl myself, I like Human Nature but I think the sheer quality of the Hourglass recording is better and the songs are a tad more continuous (and to my liking). ALTHOUGH I LOVE Barstow......(C=

TkH<--------+=! Dazed and Confused in Michigan

Greg, there is a DVD (and VHS) out called The Best Of MusikLaden: America. The songs on the album were performed live in 1975 for FRG (West Germany) TV. They were filmed in a local broadcasting house "Radio Bremen" and were originally shown in the United States on VH-1. Playing along with Gerry, Dewey, and Dan were Willie Leacox (percussion) and Calvin Samuels (bass). "Tin Man" has a jazzed up Dewey opening never before heard on tape. "Wind Wave" and "Rainbow Song" are live as you have not likely heard. Willie was fairly new and you may note his stern attention to the business at hand - as if the material is fairly new to him. The band was just starting to incorporate Ovation guitars into the live set, the Martins soon to be sent back to the studio. It is the only live album with all three original members of the band.

Thanks Jim. By the way, I received two mail messages this morning, one from Gerry and one from Terry (TT). They both gave me the same set of corrections to the "World Of Light" lyrics which I'll try to get posted this morning. Terry should be proud of himself for catching the errors exactly as the author of the lyrics did. Gerry also said that he's off to Reno (at 5:30 this morning) so the fans there are in store for some greate concerts. We'll all be looking forward to some reports from Erin and the rest who are lucky enough to be there.

David, I don't know the answer to your questions, but I can take a guess. Rhino and Warner basically belong to the same parent company (or something like that) so it's very easy to get permission to use the Warner songs. Rhino's strength is putting out compilations so they're also very good at negotiating with other companies. I can only surmise that they either couldn't negotiate an equitable arrangement with Oxygen for the Human Nature songs or they weren't interested in those songs. As far as what's happening with Oxygen, I'm not really sure. I've heard various "ideas" of CDs they wanted to pursue, but nothing concrete and nothing in the recent past. They're still very happy to host the America Fans web site and that's good!

Hi, Does anyone know of any other full length videos of the group that have been made other than "Live in Central Park"

Thanks

Greg
(Australia)

Thanks for the good work Stevo on the new songs WORLD OF LIGHT & PARADISE. Stevo does all this work while managing a high tech career (post bubble) & keeping the family on the move.

What's the reason for not having any tracks from Human Nature on any of the compilation CDs? Is it because Oxygen/King Biscuit are not allowing the use of those tracks? What's happening with Oxygen these days, too?

I've done my best to transcribe the lyrics to the two new songs on The Complete Greatest Hits CD. I think I'm quite accurate on "Paradise" but I have a few questions about "World Of Light". If any of you have corrections to make to the lyrics, please send them to me. Thanks. --SteveL

Lyrics to "World Of Light"
Lyrics to "Paradise"

By the way, I've been listening to these two songs all night and I'm more and more impressed by how good they are. I think I've listened to them almost as many times as Kevin. Way to go Gerry and Dewey!

...has a lot TO do...

I'm still extremely impressed with "World Of Light"!

I think the reason why American Gramaphone wanted "YCDM" and "EIMIFC" released has a lot do with the fact that both songs were released overseas, Germany anyway. "YCDM" was song number 1 on the CD while "EIMIFC" was song number 2.

Certainly no offense meant toward Mr. GLB but his songs on "Like A Brother" seem to have something missing to me and that is Sir Dewey's background vocals.

On PARADISE what is may be a keyboard of some sort???...has the sound of a lute... which for me gives the song a far eastern feel. Does anyone else see it that way?

What a great song!

JB

thanks for providing the new material in its entirety. Loved the sax on "World of Light." "In the Dark" had some great lyrics: "Baby, I remember every dream ... I just can't remember what they mean." Been there, done that. Great stuff.

Obviously the record companies ultimately call the shots regarding what songs go on what albums. Any qualms I've noted in previous posts have not been directed toward Dewey and Gerry. In a different world, perhaps "Paradise," "World of Light," "Mitchum Junction," "In the Dark" and maybe "Norman" would be half of a new album of previously unreleased material.

One possible reason America redid You Can Do Magic and California on Hourglass might have been at the record label's insistance. Maybe as part of allowing America to release new material, American Gramaphone wanted those songs in its catalog so it could profit from any future licencing fees for commercials or movies, or it could generate rights fees for the song's inclusion on complilations (after all, Magic is almost a dead ringer for the Capital Records version), or it could boost CD sales by casual fans picking up Hourglass and not knowing Magic was available on a different disc. That seems a lot more logical than the band simply on a whim re-recording the two songs.

KevinS.

I'm here at the public library after having just listened to each of the three new songs. They are all very nice.

"World Of Light" though...WOW! Man, the energy that it creates! It's awesome. I love the sax, the thundering sound effects, and the alliteration of the lyrics "sidewalk sizzle in a summer night". It's a hit song if there ever was one! Congrats Guys!

I can see your point about being glad to get "Magic" and "California" on CD along with the new stuff on "Hourglass," and I, too, appreciate the version with Dewey on lead vocal. I'm not knocking "Hourglass" at all. But I first heard "California" as the flip side of "HWNN" on a 45 in 1972 and have bought every album/CD/cassette/8-track I can find since, so I have plenty of versions of the older material. Thus, I appreciate "Human Nature" a bit more because it's all new stuff.

As much as I love America's music, I do get a bit annoyed about the number of times I've had to buy 10 old songs in order to listen to a couple of new ones. America has more compilation albums than "Rocky" had movies. After Rhino releases "The Complete Greatest Hits" or "Return of the Son of the Greatest Hits" or whatever it's called, let's hope that it or another record company releases -- and properly promotes -- an album of fresh, new work.

This is what I first look at when a new America item is issued: Does the first "A" in the "AMERICA" logo have horizontal lines running through it or not? I guess it's just a quirk of mine. I see that it does on the "Complete Greatest Hits".

Thank you for the audio clips Steve! What a treat to get to listen to the two new songs now. (Hey gang, is this the most awesome fans' website or what?!)

Dewey's Girl loves "Paradise" -- what a pretty song. Dewey's Girl really wishes that her man would do a solo album. That would also be paradise.

KevinS. -- How many times? You crack me up. Do you think either song is "chestnutty?" When I read that word I said "What the hell does THAT mean?" Later I logged onto the folder and you had written "What the hell does THAT mean?" I still don't know. Is it kind of like "Perry Como-ish" or "Andy Williams-ish" ala "roasting over an open fire?" Isn't it the color of a horse? One with no name perhaps.

To the Human Nature/Hourglass debate, DWYsGirl and Rainman say "Hourglass, Hourglass -- definitely, definitely Hourglass -- definitely." Although I must say that both albums have five tracks that I love. Not counting the two rereleased songs however, Hourglass has zero songs that I dislike while HN has three.

Hey Johnny -- at least it wasn't an advertisement looking for someone to work in pubic relations. No experience necessary -- will train.

Everything Mike B said regarding the recording of "YCDM" and "EIMIFC" sounds correct to me as I'm sure most of us know.

I would have thought the "EIMIFC" version on "Hourglass" would have been called "California Revisited" since it's more like it than the other which is purely "unplugged" (I believe). It's great hearing Dewey sing lead vocals on the "Hourglass" version.

I'm eager to hear the two new America songs on the soon-to-be-released CD but I'll have to go to the public library to hear them and Gerry's other song.

As a side note that has nothing to do with anything here but I always think of a particular incident that occurred in the local newspaper a few years ago regarding the word "public". Typing "public library" above made me think of it.

Several years ago, a local construction company placed a huge one page "thank you" message in the newspaper. This construction company had just completed construction of a new building for the local electricity company called "Southwest Public Service". Instead of "Southwest Public Service", it read at the top of this one page message/ad in huge, bold black letters, "Thank You Southwest Pubic Service".

(Hello Bruno!)

Great songs. Although I've only had a chance to listen to each song 4,322 times.

KevinS.

Hi Steve
the diffuse newspaper "Cronache del mezzogiorno" (Chronicle of the midday) of the city of Salerno published 14 Agoust an article about America. I send you (and Ingrid and Johnny Yee) the article with trnslation in English( to not tire Ingrid for translation).
Hi Ciao all
Ciao Ingrid, Steve, Johnny.
Bruno

I see YCDM and Everyone I meet on Hourglass as bonus tracks when I bought it in 1994, not CD songs I already had. Homecoming only had 10 songs. Hourglass had ten new songs plus a tribute by America the duo to chart makers from their past - Dan Peek and Russ Ballard. The two songs were re-recorded for Hourglass, not merely lifted from past recordings. Dewey sings lead on California and Michael woods plays lead. On YCDM America plays the instruments instead of Russ Ballard. Please correct me if I’m wrong on any of this Johnny.

I see YCDM and Everyone I meet on Hourglass as bonus tracks when I bought it in 1994, not CD songs I already had. Homecoming only had 10 songs. Hourglass had ten new songs plus a tribute by America the duo to chart makers from their past - Dan Peek and Russ Ballard. The two songs were re-recorded for Hourglass, not merely lifted from past recordings. Dewey sings lead on California and Michael woods plays lead. On YCDM America plays the instruments instead of Russ Ballard. Please correct me if I’m wrong on any of this Johnny.

new songs....very good.

jb

The Bravo Channel is running a Popular Songs series and America will be featured on Wednesday, August 15. The preview actually showed comments from both Dewey and Gerry. It will air at 7 & 11 pm Eastern Time and 8 & 11 pm Pacific Time. The Bravo TV website is: www.Bravotv.com/home/. I don't have cable so I won't be seeing it, but I look forward to reading comments about it from those of you who do.

Another wow! This time to Bill. I barely posted the two new songs and he has already listened to them and posted a message here (he even posted it before I could post my announcement). To answer your question, Bill, I don't think that any of the tour band was involved with the recording sessions. The liner notes say that the new recordings were engineered by Gerry Beckley and recorded at Human Nature Studios in Sherman Oaks, CA (that's Gerry's studio). Larry Klimas played the saxophones on "World Of Light" and Jeffrey Foskett sang additional vocals on Paradise. Both of the new songs were produced by Gerry and Dewey. Six more days and counting...

Wow! That's all I can say about the two new songs on The Complete Greatest Hits CD. Listen for yourself and see what you think. Click on the following link to bring up The Complete Greatest Hits web page and from there you can click on the "blue note" icons to listen to the Real Audio soundclips. I haven't had time to transcribe the lyrics yet so if any of you have time to do it, please do. I'll get them posted as soon as I have time to transcribe them or as soon as one of you can e-mail them to me. --SteveL

...just got my first listen to "World of Light" and "Paradise" thanks to you Steve......it is so good to hear new material...I cant help but love every song these guys record and these are two more great tunes....do you know if the tour band got to go into the studio for either of these songs?

(I will be returning from a weekend in the "Paradise" of the "Range of Light" on Tuesday the 21st...does anyone know of a record (CD) store in Bishop California.....what a great CD to pick up for the ride home....)

also www.leakycanoe.com has some updated free concerts in the Park for anyone in the Temecula and Lake Elsinore area

enough of my rambling...bye

holiday, I dont remember if theres a Red Eye records at Sydney airport; it would make sense to have one there, wouldnt it? I got Hourglass in the city right near Centre Point in 1994. Like probably all AMERICA fans I check out every store I go to, to see what CD's they've got by the guys and so it was with much excitement that I found Hourglass as it had been 7 or so years since I had seen a new studio album. To this day I have seen very, very few copies of the CD in NZ and so Red Eye has always been a favourite but on my last trip to Sydney, I couldnt find it; must have moved. Speaking of music stores, its such a blast to walk in and see DEFINITIVE in the top 5 or 6. I wonder if this means me and my guitar would be considered quite hip at present?!

I'll be there Saturday night with my Dad.

Not that Hourglass wasn't a fine album -- "Young Moon," "Hope" and "Greenhouse" stood out, in my mind -- but I'm a bit weary of paying for the same songs time and again. I already had "You Can Do Magic" and "California Revisited" on at least a couple of albums. Human Nature was all new stuff, and I believe it may be their best work since Alibi. Sorry, Jim, but I have to disagree about "Town and Country." Not one of Dewey's best efforts. Also, while "Perspective" is far from their best work, I'd rate it ahead of "Your Move."

I will be heading to Reno this weekend. I'd love to meet some fellow fans before/after the show if anyone is interested.

Rich

You're right Jim -- my mistake and I appreciate the correction. I hate being a source of misinformation! : )

I think both these albums are great and definitely a huge leap above the 80's syrup that started to treacle after VFTG. I like Town and Country too - and HN's Wheels are Turning is as good as trio '70's Dewey who keeps getting better. I hope that Ger does not concentrate too much on Horizontal Fall because ......
Ger + Dew = "Gereat Dewets" ..... lol
Hey jimbob - I catch the Red Eye from Perth to Sydney ... is that a Red Eye record store at Sydney airport?
Chris

Ive seen them with steve perry and the new lead singer and you would never no the difference.

Hate to nit pick, but Jonathon Cain was not a founding member...it was Gregg Rollie. But I'm sure the show was still great.

Saw Journey this past July 3rd with Peter Framton. Great concert is all I can say. Anybody get the chance to see them your in for a great show.

Its funny how our opinions differ; the one thing we all agree on is that the guys are the best, yet personal taste ensures we enjoy tunes that others may not be so fond of. Far from TOWN & COUNTRY being one of AMERICAS weakest song, I think it one of the best from HN. Deweys voice is strong and its a great rhythm and general feel good song. I like Hourglass, SLEEPER TRAIN is classic Dewey, but to me it was unnecessary to include YCDM and to a lesser extent, EVERYONE I MEET..., it seemed like filler. HN is a pretty good summer album to me; that may be because I got it in the middle of a scorching summer. I was living in a coastal town at the time 130 miles from where I usually resided and on Monday mornings I would make the journey back, driving through beautiful countryside at dawn, then watching the sun come up as I drove listening to BARSTOW and I would marvel at just how talented Gerry is! Got Hourglass in winter so that may explain my preference for HN. Actually bought it in Sydney at Red Eye records if you read this Margaret and Spurs! Do you know it?

So...3 days until Reno!!!! Who's planning on coming? Does anyone want to get together for lunch or dinner before one of the shows? Doesn't matter which day...I'm off for FOUR DAYS!!! Bringing my boyfriend both nights and my parents one night...CAN'T WAIT to see you guys!!!

Erin :o)

Look at the bright side of the bonus tracks on the new greatest hits album. Encore had four, Complete Greatest Hits has two. Maybe another greatest hits compilation or two and we'll have the equivalent of a whole new album without a whole new album. Call it Operation Covert Album.

john

Journey in concert
August 10, 2001

The Shoreline Amphitheatre in Mountain View (south of San Francisco) is one of my all-time favorite venues. The temperatures are just the way I like 'em -- 63 to 83 -- and the ocean breezes bring in the smells of the sea and eucalyptus trees. Maybe I should clarify that the temperatures range from 83 to 63 DURING THE CONCERT. We northern California natives may LOOK dorky carrying our sweatshirts and jackets to the concert in sunshine and 83 degrees, but by 9:00 p.m. the shorts, tank top and sandals crowd is frozen.

Journey is a San Francisco hometown band. The City and County of San Francisco has an official "Journey Day" : ) The performance began with travel footage -- "on the road with the band" -- on the big screen behind the stage set. When the freeway signs for San Francisco came up on the screen the crowd went wild. (I'm interested to know if they use location-specific footage for each place they play.) As the lights came up on stage, Steve Augeri starts singing "Any way you want it, that's the way you need it, any way you want it" as he runs from the back wing to center stage. The stage set was stunning --- pure eye candy. Cherry red was the central color, from Jonathan Cain's lacquered red grand piano and Neal Schon's red guitar to Ross Valory's red bass and Steve Augeri's red leather pants. It was visual overload in my favorite color. To say that Augeri won the audience's approval is to put it mildly. They played for one hour and 45 minutes and the entire audience STOOD for ALL but about 20 minutes of it. That's how high the energy level was; it felt completely natural to be on your feet (and moving) throughout the show. The only time the crowd's enthusiasm waned was during a couple of songs from the new Arrival album. Other than that, we were eating out of their hands, so to speak. When they started "When the lights go down in the Ci-ty, and the sun shines on the Ba-ay" with footage of the Golden Gate Bridge on the big screen, it was overwhelming. I had not seen Journey live with Steve Perry so I can't compare, but the band (still with three of its founding members) and their new lead singer were superb in concert last Friday night.

DG

did you ever have one of those days at work where you set up a stack of cds next to you, put on the headphones and fire away at the computer 'till quitting time?...

dug up a depeche mode cd - did anybody else like them? how come i don't mind their drum machines but don't like it as much when america records with them?

liked gerry's "in the dark" - especially the last third of it - really liked the lyrics...

speaking of lyrics, listened to van morrison today and closely listened to his...excellent words—especially "sweet thing" - anyone lucky enough to see him live?

finished off with some cake today - those guys kill me - someone finish the line for me! "sheep go to heaven......" well, maybe not.

okay, rambling over with...

hi everybody.i'm a chilean fan who wants to know where can i buy books with original tabs from any record.here in my country is very difficult to find america's material.
hope you can give me some help.

maurice

Thanks Steve. With the song In The Dark being on the site it made me think of that song again. I left the question on "the boys" site, but alas no answer. I'm waiting to hear the two new songs from the Greatest Hits CD, trying to be patient till the 21st. Wishing it was a new album instead of two songs. Just a lazy rainy day, with questions in my head.

No, Don Felder is history with the Eagles. He was replaced by a session guitarist named Stuart something or other. The Eagles are essentially Henley, Frey, Schmidtt, and Walsh. The new guy is just a backup guitarist used in Felders place. Since Felder didn't sing, the four that do are the EAGLES. Everyone else is an extra. Whatever the case, they proved last Saturday why they are and will always be, the best!

I would like to see a new CD with all new material. Can't see buying the best of when you already have the songs. I know their are two new songs but I'll wait and keep my fingers cross.

gut reaction was hourglass - then i looked back over the listing on human nature - i say it's a toss-up...

i want a new live album!!!!

Angie, I'm afraid I don't know the answer to your question about Gerry's song. My guess is that we may hear it on a future release (either by America or by Gerry). But I haven't heard anything official either one way or another. If I do hear something, I'll be sure to pass it along on this chat folder.

I'd pick Hourglass over Human Nature easily. There are songs on Human Nature that are America's weakest: Town & Country, Hidden Talent. A few other songs are just so-so. On the other hand, songs like Wheels, Wednesday Morning, Whipsering, Overwhelming World and Ooloololo are among America's finest. Human Nature is just like the title suggests: the good, the bad, the ugly. All the songs on Hourglass are strong, the only thing that album suffers from is the bush league production technique of computerized drums, ala O-Town and that ilk. (America is far too talented to be treating its music like a boy band.)

KevinS.

I have to disagree David. Human Nature does have about 6 songs that are as good or better than Hourglass. But the rest of the songs are inferior to Hourglass in my opinion. I still hit the next button on a few HN songs. For me, there is not one week song on Hourglass. But then again, Hourglass was my second America CD. Hourglass and History were the only America CDs I could find on the store shelf back in 1994 when I got my first my CD player.

I have to disagree. I think Hourglass is clearly superior to Human Nature. I thought it was more consistent, had better production, and has some of Dewey's finest work since the early days. I like Human Nature, but it just isn't as strong as Hourglass.

Eddy, I want to thank-you also for sharing this song. It really is wonderful:o)

Thank you, Steve for putting it on the website!
It's such a cool tune, I'm glad I was able to share it.

Red Oak, was Don Felder present? I'm curious to know because of his legal issues with Frey and Henley as reported here a short while back. If not, who subbed if anyone?

Regarding HG vs. HN, both are great!

"this has to be the Worst America album ever!"
Trying to figure out what planet your living on.

For those of you interested, I attended the concert last night at Invesco Field at Mile High here in Denver. It was the opening of the stadium that the Broncos will be playing in. Now that my mind is clear from the strange smelling cloud of smoke from the crowd, it was a great evening! The band sounded great and with backup from a horn section and others, it made for a serene adventure. Joe Walsh proved once again why he is one of the best guitar pickers on the planet. Good to hear Witchy Woman, Take It To The Limit, Funk #49, New Kid In Town as well as all the other favorites. 3 encores and they ended with Desperado. Played for about 3 hours. Was a night to remember as the last time for me to see them was 1995. This will probably be the last time to see them live, glad I was lucky enough to be able to go. AMERICA is just as good, though, if they had the big stage show backup that the Eagles have. Next up is Little River Band in September at the Grizzly Rose. Will report on that when I go.

Human Nature is the best by far. I like the song Hidden Talent,FAMT, Wednesday Morning, World Alone. I think that Perspective and Your Move have good songs, but are the weakest in the group and do not sound not like the band at all. Hourglass is okay. Mirror To Mirror and Greenhouse are the stand outs to me. It is a shame that they don't play more from HN. Um... Steve, I do have a question for you regarding Human Nature and the Highway box set. There is a missing song by Gerry called How Could I Turn You Away. Do you think we will ever hear it? It was a side note on one of the Highway liner notes posted on this site. Can you answer the question, please:o)

I have to agree with Alan. Perspective is the one that I really don't listen to. I think Hourglass is seriously underrated. Garden of Peace is wonderful. The stuff from Human Nature should have gotten more airplay!
rmp<----recovering from my fourteen year old's birthday party

Alan and David, you won't get any flames from me, but you will get my opinion. I just happened to listen to both Hourglass and Human Nature this past Friday, and I still like them both (a lot). There are times when I like Hourglass better and times when I like Human Nature better. I guess it depends on the mood that I'm in at the time. But there is never a time when I don't like either one of them (so I guess I differ from David on that point). I'm sure that others will jump in and give their opinions.

David,

I have decided to come out of lurkdom once again to respond to your post. While I don't agree with you that Hourglass is their worst album (I personally think "Perspective" is their worst for a lot of reasons I won't go into right now), I agree that Human Nature is BY FAR the better of the 2 albums. I think that HN is close to their BEST album ever and is definitely right up there with their first 5. I also agree that it is a shame that it didn't get the promotion it deserved. IMO, it should have been the album to put them back at the top (or at least somewhere near there). I'm also disappointed that the HN songs aren't getting played much at their concerts anymore (at least that's what I gather from a lot of the concert reports I've read here on the Chat). I have been fortunate enough to hear 4 of the 5 HN tracks performed live (Wheels, FAMT, Pages & Wed. Morning), and they are a real treat to listen to live. I never got to hear Moment To Moment (According to Dewey at Topsfield Fair last year, they didn't really do it that much anyway), but I'm sure that was awesome live as well.

I AM happy to report that FAMT gets A LOT of airplay on the muzak stations at BOTH of our larger local supermarkets. It's great to hear it when I go shopping - a great break from the usual drivel that drones endlessly out of their speakers.

BTW, if you're looking for a topic of discussion to liven things up on the Chat, this should do the trick. The Hourglass vs. HN debate was quite lively, with very strong opinions on both sides the last time it was brought up. (I was also CLEARLY in the minority last time, so when I saw your post, I had to jump in and echo your opinion).

Let the flames begin!

ASC <--------- Almost ALWAYS in the minority with my opinions!

Hourglass - ACK / Human Nature- YAY!
Yesterday, on my trip back from Reno where I attended the Christopher Cross/Stepehen Bishop concert the night before, I had an opportunity to listen to "Hourglass" all the way through. Unfortunately, my negative opinion of this album hasn't changed. The 2 released singles "Young Moon" and "Greenhouse" weren't bad and I Carl Wilson's part in "Garden of Peace, although it was all too brief ;( IMHO this has to be the WORST America album ever! If I didn't know better, I'd assume it was a contractual obligation!
On the other hand, Human Nature is excellent! Every song is memorable. It's a pity that this release didn't get the promotion it deserved! ;)

Hopefully this will get some discussion going. I't sbeen a little SLOW here lately!

Angie, I agree with you that it's a great song! For those of you who wonder what we're talking about, go to the What's New section of the America Fans home page to listen to Gerry's latest song which was a bonus track on the import release of the Beckley-Lamm-Wilson collaboration, "Like A Brother". A big thanks to Eddy Forsman for making they lyrics and the sound clip available.

In The Dark, what a gem from Like A Brother. Wish it was included in the CD I got instead of the import. Gerry's songs still blow me away.
Steve, I was able to play it on the AOL media player even though I have Real.

Yes, just copy and paste the whole URL into your browser.

David, are you sure the "?" is in the right place?

Here's the link to take you directly to the order screen for "The Complete Greatest Hits" CD:

http://www.rhino.com/search/LetterBrowse.lasso?-database=RhinoMaster&-layout=WDetail&-response=%2fsearch%2fDetail.html&-recordID=37020&-token.PartnerToken=&-search

That is correct I think, WORLD OF LIGHT has GERRY on lead vocals & PARADISE has DEWEY on lead vocals. Both songs are the best of the best new songs. The regular fans will not be disappointed, these songs are very unique & there will be quite a bit of buzz once they are released 8/21/01. Look for some promotion from Rhino. Perhaps they will lead to a new disc of new songs ? You gotta have HOPE.

Does anyone know yet who wrote and sings each of the two new songs on "The Complete Greatest Hits"? I had a dream the other night that both songs are performed by Gerry. I don't know why I would dream that though. If I were to guess and that's all it would be, I would say that Gerry wrote and sings lead on "World Of Light" and Dewey wrote and sings lead on "Paradise". It's strictly a guess based on the song titles only and nothing else.

I saw on the AMG All Music Guide that there's a song with the same title, "World Of Light", written by a performer named Timothy Martin that appears on his CD called "The Spirit Spring" that was released last year.

Ah you are conversant in DoubleSpeak! after the week I have had ( I am moving libraries) I need to wear my nametag upside down so I can refer to it!

Don't need to read Orwell...was just trying to read Howie. Nobody wants a pseudobootleg, do they?! Therefore the marks to signify quote-unquote "bootleg".

tt <----big sister may be watching

OHH tt beeen reading George Orwell again? Thanks for the unusual spin ( in your usual idiom)

According to your last post, Howie, if a recording was made of a broadcast then it wasn't a bootleg. HOGWASH was the term. Therefore, this bootleg you just mentioned should be called "bootleg" which really isn't a bootleg, right?

tt <----nothin' like a good, real bootleg

Excellent Kim! I believe I checked Rhino's site just yesterday or the day before but the CD front cover wasn't available for viewing so I think Rhino just put it on. I accessed it after reading Kim's message by merely typing in "America" on Rhino's home page. When the next screen came up, I just scrolled down the page until I found the CD name.

I just checked rhino.com and saw a picture of the cover of the new cd "The Complete Greatest Hits". It appears as if it is a picture similar to the one from the back of Hat Trick. I was also able to order it. I found it in a round about way - go to videos, click "A" on the alpha list and then click on the title.

somebody I had traded with sent me a bootleg called
"On The Road" and it was the ABC Wide World In concert show
Not somebody taping the concert, but the show that was broadcast
in 1974, or whatever. It's nothing different.

Go out to MattB, whose recent health crisis is detailed on his web page/diary http://walterphobicman.iuma.com Speedy recovery Matt!

The "On The Road" bootleg CD image has now been posted. Thanks to Johnny for photocopying it and sending it to me so I could scan it in.

hey everyone, the DEFINITIVE CD is now number THREE in the Sounds Music national charts! Aint that something?!

The Times does a weekly interview with a star called "My Favorite Weekend." Here's a link to today's chat w/ the former "Lost in Space" star and longtime friend of America.
http://www.latimes.com/entertainment/printedition/calendar/la-000064518aug09.story

I can't confirm this, but some of the computer-based DVD players may not have the same sorts of regional restrictions, which might be nice for rare import DVDs if true...

Regarding DVD players, I'm staying away from them for the time being. I want to wait until they are more perfected. As it turns out, that regional encoding mechanism is still very prone to breaking. I was at my friend's house once, ready to watch a DVD, when the player said the DVD could not be played on it, which was crazy, because we'd seen parts of that DVD on the same player before. As it turned out, the regional encoding mechanism went haywire and refused to play DVDs under ANY region code. The cost of fixing it was more than the cost of buying a new DVD player, so that player was outta there. It's always frustrating when YOU have to pay the cost of the industry trying to prevent you from watching what you want, but so it goes with DVD players!

I think a prime candidate for a DVD is the Central Park concert, the one originally released on LaserDisc in 1981. Not many people know this, but it was reissued in 1997 in stereo (the original was in mono). If only they had waited a couple years, we might have had it on DVD instead!!

john

I sent you an email. I also enjoy my Hell Freezes over DVD. DVD is great for concerts. When is America going to put out one of thier recent concerts on DVD?

In the early days of DVD in the US you couldn't even play some US sold DVDs on the same player. I now have a third generation DVD in my PC with video out ports. Cost me about $150. I can pop a DVD from the rental store and watch it on the PC or the TV. It has played every DVD I've rented from the Video outlet in the past year. You get great alternate scenes, directors cuts, etc on DVD and you dohn't have to rewind them. I love my America Musickladen DVD.

Hi Mike, I tried sending you a message to your email address but it didnt send for some reason. I need help with some guitar chords and I was hoping you can help. Ive just read your bio and see you are a fellow guitar player! Can you send me a short message so I can hit the reply button rather than me bore everyone here with what I want? Cheers, Jim

Thats interesting, John, about the different DVD'S for different countries. About a year ago I found on the web where I could buy some AMERICA videos, which was thrilling! I ordered all 4 of them and waited with much anticipation for their delivery. It took nearly 2 months for them to arrive, which I thought a trifle long, especially as Heart Times had got me VAN GO GAN and my oval tee to my door in under 2 weeks! Thats to N.Z. by the way. Great excitement when the tapes DID finally arrive but it didnt last long as none of them played properly. Every couple of seconds there would be a pause in the sound for maybe 2 seconds making them unlistenable. What I didnt know at the time was even though they were VHS they ran on a different system to ours. PAL for NZ and NTSC for the States. The tapes had cost NZ $50 each and I then had to shell out another $100 to get them converted. Musikladen, as we know, is terrific but the picture quality on the tape I got is not great. Another tape has a 20 minute HARBOR promo which is narrated by Phil Hartman and is fascinating for its historic content. It then has various performances from the late 70's up til '84 I think. The 3rd tape is from Equador '98 and would be fantastic if it wasnt for the poor picture quality. The final tape was advertised as having "some heads" when it is in fact unwatchable. Filmed in Sept. last year, it is a video camera set up some distance from the stage and has people walking in front of it the whole time. It is virtually impossible to see the guys on stage and should not have been for sale at all. It was an expensive exercise for me and made me appreciate the Live in Central Park all the more! One of the tapes had ALL AROUND on it taken from the Central Park show, which didnt appear on that (Central Park) video. It should have, cos its a fantastic song and even better live! Alas, my Cntrl Park video is not around any more and because of the aforementioned problems, I dont see me being able to get another copy.Not much luck on the video front, huh?

Wow! Thanks John for the wonderful explanation. So, I guess I won't be buying that "BeatleMania Live!" DVD offered on eBay since I don't have a DVD player.

Can't you all see me placing that DVD into my video tape player? It would be "Austin Powers" revisited! Yeah Baby! :0)

I'm still wired from last Saturday's performance of BeatleMania Live! It would have been well worth paying $25 or whatever but it was absolutely FREE to anyone who cared to attend. Photos from that show are available for viewing at: http://hobbsaugustnites.com

DVDs are a totally different medium from VHS tapes. Whereas VHS is a video cassette, a DVD looks identical to a compact disc, except that it can hold far more information than a standard CD. (DVDs can also hold more than a video tape, as well.) DVD players have been built so that attempts to copy the content onto a video tape won't work. For all intents and purposes, you have to own a DVD player to watch material from a DVD. However, you can get a DVD/CD-ROM player installed in your computer, which is what I did. It may not be a big-screen TV, but there are worse things than watching the MusikLaden concert on a 19" monitor.

Regarding "all codes," this is a poorly-understood but critical feature of the DVD. Trying to avoid the experience of the CD, which is universally compatible (so we can play our Japanese imports!!), the developers of the DVD wanted to ensure that the world was divided up into fiefdoms for the various movie studios. Hence, the United States and Canada sell "Region 1" DVD players and DVDs, while Japan and Europe sell "Region 2," and Australia and Mexico have "Region 3," etc. This means that if you buy a British movie you always wanted to have on DVD and try to play it on your American DVD player, it won't work. The idea is that movie studios don't want imports to trickle into a market country before they release the movie according to their own timelines. Or studios that own rights to distribute a catalog movie in a given market don't want to have to compete with the same release from somewhere else that might happen to be cheaper or have more features. Occasionally, DVDs will be encoded as "Region 0," which is supposed to mean region-free. However, the motion picture industry is coming out with DVDs that won't play Region 0 DVDs, while other DVD players won't function properly if the region encoding mechanism is disabled.

In plain English, it's a bloody mess!

john

I know nothing about DVDs so please forgive me if this sounds a bit dumb but I'm sure there are many others here who are like me so we can all learn about DVDs together.

If the video is a DVD video, can you play it on a standard video tape player? Also, if a music video is advertised as an "all codes DVD", what does that mean?

Yes Ingo, Leaco is still sicko! I sent you a message from my hotmail address after having read your message here just a short while ago.

Thanks John for the listening info regarding Ballard's "I Don't Believe In Miracles".

I just saw that Express.Com has the America MusikLaden DVD on sale for $12.49 as part of its Summer Sale. I already have one, but many in the Chat Folder may not own it. Now is the time! Brad

Hi, Janice. I am a long time America fan and live in Atlanta. Have you got tickets for both shows in Peachtree City? I was able to get Friday tickets, but the Saturday show was sold out as part of the Concert Series. A friend of mine who lives in Peachtree City is trying to get 2 Saturday tickets for us. Can't wait to see them again live for the 9th and (hopefully) 10th time! Brad

Try using the keyword Bunnell and see if you come up with anything.DanC.

Johnny,

You can hear a RealAudio clip of Ballard's version of "I Don't Believe In Miracles" on the web site.

john

e-mail address. Johnny -- Is leaco.net working? If not, then Dewey's Girl needs the hotmail address so she can flame you -- I mean, communicate with you!

Ciao Bruno! Dai Gianni Yee and Ingrid. Sei corretto -- lui e' la memoria storica del gruppo.

I see that "You Can Do Voodoo" and "I Don't Believe In Miracles" came from Ballard's 1975 self-titled LP. I sure wonder what the latter song sounds like sung by Ballard as well as his original song Dewey re-worked that became "The Border".

I do have two of Ballard's albums. One's a 1984 self-titled LP that contains the song "Voices" which is the name of his "Best Of" LP as John mentioned. I think it's kind of strange to name a "Best Of" LP after the name of a song that's on one of his other albums.

I like Ballard's music but it's nothing like the songs he has written for America.

(LisaRose...Very cool about your Ringo drumstick. Eddy...thanks for what you mentioned about the other America's 45.)

David,

I'd heard the same rumor that "You Can Do Magic" was originally recorded as "You Can Do Voodoo" by Russ Ballard. I eventually got Russ's greatest hits collection, called Voices, which has the track. Let me assure you, "You Can Do Voodoo" sounds nothing like "You Can Do Magic," and the lyrics are totally different. Apparently he liked the name of the song well enough to fine tune it for America, but that's about the only similarity.

john

I wonder if the recent Platinum certification of Homecoming has anything to do with Rhino planning to re-release it or maybe in preparation for releasing the Complete Greatest Hits CD? Might be a promotional thing or something. Maybe they will finally get around to releasing and certifying Holiday and Hearts.

The other day I saw a commercial on TV for the "Best of Bread". Rhino re-released the original with about 8 additional songs on it. Hope they do the same for America's Complete Greatest Hits! I kind of wish instead of doing a new release, that they would have just re-released History, with the 10 extra songs on it. History has sold about 6 million copies and if they had re-released it with the extra tracks and promoted it, it might eventually get Diamond certification (10 million + in sales). Maybe they couldn't do it because of the different labels involved or something. Oh well, I just hope Rhino promotes it like they have been doing for the "Best of Bread". Rhino always puts out first class products.

Here are a couple more MP3s that have America ties. They are from Jeff Larson's soon-to-be-released "Complete Works 1998-2000" CD. The first one is Annabelle where the words and music were written by Gerry. It was also co-produced by Gerry and Hank Linderman. The second one is Carol Ann where Gerry is featured as a guest background vocalist. I'll leave them both on the Chat Folder for a couple of weeks.

Annabelle
Carol Ann

I would bet that the packaging will be very similar to the Definative America import.

My friend, Emilio, from Spain sent me an interesting cover of Riverside. It has been translated into Spanish and is sung by a band called Los Angeles (The Angels). The cover was released in the early to mid 70's and sounds very good. Click on the following link to download and listen to an MP3 version of the song. I'll leave it on the Chat Folder for a couple of weeks.

Riverside cover by Los Angeles (MP3)

Rob, I have been in contact with Morey Management and they haven't received anything from Rhino. I've also sent messages to Rhino but they haven't responded yet. So, for now we don't have anything except the titles of the new songs. Click on the following link for everything that I know so far:

America - Complete Greatest Hits

With the new album just two weeks from release, I was wondering if any one knew anything about Cover, and overall packaging? Lots of pics? Added info about the songs? Sneak previews on two new songs?

I know exactly how you feel Ingrid, as I have 'fessed up to a similar clueless time in the wilderness of post-Peek missing in action territory. But hey, we have found our way back to the fold and it has been fun rediscovering why we liked the guys so much in the first place. One of the best pleasures has been rediscovering just how good they still are at their craft - I actually like "Human Nature" (and a close second is "Hourglass") every bit as much as their earlier works. And hey, you keep up that intensity now ..... lol
Chris

That's good news. I have heard that several other of America's albums have actually gone Platinum but that they haven't been "certified" by RIAA. The label (WB in this case) has to submit documentation and pay a fee to RIAA to get them certified, which they may never do since most of those albums have never been released on CD in the US.

My "really"?? was my attempt at being surprised..I have known about the Peachtree City concert since it hit the list. But you're right..it's always a good thing to check the concert list..you never know when they may sneak up on ya! :-)

A friend of mine and fellow-fan told me that the original title of "You Can Do Magic" was "You Can Do Voodoo". Is this corrent?

Gerry also does the acoustic lead to Riverside...Both in concert & on the album I believe....

Thanks Mike B for answering that for me; it was exactly the sort of info I was wanting! Cheers, Jim

Jimbob. Yes, Woodz does a fantastic job at lead and takes on most the duties. But, Gerry and Dewey take thier turns. If my memory serves me right here are a few examples. I specifically remember Gerry playing the Lead part in Wheels while Woodz toke keyboard, and Gerry plays the dual lead part with Woodz in Horse, and Ventura Highway. It seems like it was Dewey playing the lead between verses in Baby it's up to you. Gerry also does a lead intro on Sandman. The one time I was up close, I spent a lot of time watching how Dewey fingered the rhythm parts.

I was looking through the Billboard.com web page. I flicked on the platinum and gold certifications. I've been waiting for History to go to 5 million(maybe it has and I missed it), but on July 26,2001, Homecoming received a platinum certification for sales over 1 million.
It took 29 years, but better late than never.

Mark

I was in the grocery store last week, stressed out from the marathon moving of libraries ( one a week for the next seven weeks!), when "Ventura Highway came over the stores Musak system. COOL, I thought and wandered around the store a little bit, enjoying a rare treat. A few songs later, I was heading for the checkout when "You can Do Magic" came on! a really rare America two-fer and just the thing to put me in a frame of mind!

If a recording of the concert with the Vancouver Symphony is in existance, I would pay big money and I mean big money for it. What a great concert. It's funny, I contacted the VSO about a year later asking if they would consider doing it again and I got this really snitty reply from some pr guy saying the concert was not successful financially for the VSO. I don't know where that guy was but from what I saw the place was packed and everyone loved it.
j

I seem to be having problems trying to find thing on e-bay about our favorite band. Can anyone enlighten me about some key word combinations so I can find their stuff. I am really looking forward to the greatest hits coming out soon. I have everything else but once again two missing tracks will force me to buy. Does anyone out there have a copy of the concert done in Vancouver with the symphonic orchestra?

Sylvain Sarrazin
in the Great White North (i.e. above New York)

Being a bit of a radio DX'er I was up around 2:30 am (allergy headache) a couple of nights ago and tuning across the A.M. band when I caught about 30 seconds of YOU CAN DO MAGIC on WRVA Richmond, Va. The Art Bell show ( aliens, ghost, etc.) was using the song as bumper music.

Jeff B.

Yes, Jonathan. With that revelation I feared such a question. Truth be told, I was one of those clueless fans from the 70's who had not kept up with all of the band's work post-Peek. It's only been in the last few years that I have reveled in a rediscovery of America. Please don't hate me for missing in action. What I lack in continuity, I more than make up for in intensity : )

And "Hope" is an awesome song. . .

DG

"Dewey's Girl", your first listen to "Hourglass" was just yesterday? I think we might need to change your nickname to "Kinda Dewey's Girl". Just kiddin'. Why so late though?

Actually, both "DG" and Eady52 are correct about "You Can Do Magic" but in different ways. The hit version of "YCDM" was indeed released in the US in '82 off of "View From The Ground" as most all of us know. BUT, the "Hourglass" version of "YCDM" was issued as a promo CD in Germany with "Everyone I Meet Is From California" as its accompanying song.

"You Can Do Magic" was released as a single off of View From the Ground in 1982. The singles released from Hourglass were "Young Moon" and "Hope".

This may surprise some of "you people," as Joe B. says, but yesterday was my first listen to the album Hourglass, which I very recently acquired. It was an intensely pleasurable expectation, because I had not yet heard several of the tracks. Let me understate it by saying that I experienced not a hint of disappointment. It is a pop music mystery to me, however, why "You Can Do Magic" was the "hit" from that album -- the one song not penned by America and the weak one IMO. But ya know, "the guys" can take even a ridiculous song, like the one about the mating activity of aquatic rodents, and make it likable. So there you go -- the more one hears, the more one likes.

Dewey's Girl was particularly delighted by "Garden of Peace"
and "Whole Wide World" -- THAT MAN'S VOICE!!! Dewey's Girl has three syllables of response for those two songs: Oh BA-by.

When you have Woodz as your lead player, who needs anyone else! The man is awesome! He is what makes the live shows what they are in my opinion.

Hi everyone; a question for those lucky enough to see AMERICA play live...Do Gerry and Dewey play much lead guitar in concert? Gerry played lead a lot on the first album and I imagine on quite a few subsequent recordings but my memory of them when I saw them in '84 had Michael doing virtually all lead. I know thats his job, but Im curious as to whether G&D are playing more these days.

That's great Johnny. I am a Beatles fan but never got to see that show. I saw Ringo on the Today show on Friday and managed to get the drumstick he was playing the tambourine with.

Saw "BeatleMania Live!" last night as a free show here in town. Wow! It was an incredible performance!!! I was absolutely amazed how wonderfully sounding these guys were. If you're a Beatles fan and you've never seen them before, you will love it, guaranteed!

Yes, it's true, Janice. There have been quite a few additions to the America concert list. It's worth rechecking every week or so.

Just got an e-mail from a person who read my AOL profile and saw that i am an America fan. He wanted to let me know that they are coming to Peachtree City Sept. 7 and 8...Really??? :-) That was very nice of him.

Can we please change that title??
Well, I grow em' large at my house..(my oldest son is 6'2") Suffice it to say that Mr. Lee needs a 150 gallon tank (just a year ago he was in a 10 gallon) and still growing.
In Calif prior to coming to GA, we had koi fish..5 of them..picture this..in a 50 gallon tank. They got so large I donated them to the San Diego Zoo prior to moving here. I plan to visit them this Thanksgiving. :-)

From the 08/04 Boston Globe review of the "Brooks and Dunn's Neon Circus and Wild West Show" at the Tweeter Center:

"The show started at 6p.m. with [Keith] Urban...sounds like the early Eagles...showed traditional roots...plus folk-country roots with a cover of America's Sister Golden Hair."

Janice, just how large IS Mr. Lee?!?! No, I could visit you. I wouldn't mind his presence as long as I didn't have to sit by him at dinner, share a room with him, or FIGHT him for the bathtub . . . : )

Crickets anyone? How about a thick, juicy worm? De-ee-licious!(slurp, slurp)

Geez..what a name for a title..I don't read back to see how this onegot started. Anyway..Ingrid, I guess you'll never want to visit me, as we have a very large Chinese Water Dragon named Mr. Lee. No, not after the object of your affections (Mr. Bunnell), but Bruce Lee as he is Chinese (cute huh?) Mr. Lee is quite large, very green and loves to linger in the bathtub, preferring the spaciousness of the tub over the very large pool in his tank. His favorite fare is crickets but also loves a worm or two (or twenty). Actually, he would probably prefer that I toss him a steak.
Have a great weekend everyone..anyone not busy can volunteer to come to my house and throw pine straw. 50 bales of it..just for the front yard..oh joy. :-)

Beechlady,
Do you have the CD "Billy's Back"? It came out in 95" Got mine in New York State when I seen Ringo & his all Starr Band there, (Billy was nice enough to autograph for me also) If you don't, let me know & I'll make you a copy. Will it go round in circles is not on it, but he did re-do Nothin'from Nothin'
Oh, & Johnny..... COOL America 45, I've worked in a used record store, that had MILLIONS of 45's & never came across that one, have you checked a price guide on it? might be worth a few $$$!

Thanks for the explanation Mike.

No, I despise ALL snakes, most other reptiles and all rodents. Did somebody say Rodentian?! One reptilian exception is the small bearded dragon. A friend of mine has a couple of them as pets and they are quite cute when you get to know them. Not cuddly in texture, but cuddly in personality. (?)

Red Oak: Said NOTHING of the sort! (Southern belle accent helpful HERE) "Why, it couldn't be proven that I'm not just SHOCKED by your implications" -- lol(Starbuck style)

"Beechlady, Beechlady, lend me your hand . . ." I try to follow Bruce Hornsby's piano fingerings when I listen to him play. I dream about being able to play piano like that one day. I have a ways to go -- just started lessons in January -- it was a New Year's resolution that I kept! -- but I already do a lovely version of Dan Fogelberg's "Longer."

dewey's GIRL!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! (Restraining Order not yet received)

Cool down Ingy on Dewey's fingering talents. All of us gutter minds know what you were California Dreamin about in that statement. But, as I've always said, "You make readin the posts worthwhile." Never a dull moment in that mind of yours and Thank God!!!!!!!!

Yes Chris, Howie and all, the 6th song is DAN's "Lonely People". Everything I've read regarding the America/Eagles bootleg LP never has mentioned "Lonely People".

Mark, regarding where I got the LP, I plead the "Ancient Chinese Secret" cop-out. :0)

Howie, I'm not sure what your last post means. The six songs you mentioned are the same six on the bootleg AS WELL AS on ABC's "Wide World In Concert". So are you saying (which I think you are) just because they're the same six, the bootleg LP wasn't taken from that particular performance on ABC?

A major question: Do you know the exact date of that 1974 "Wide World In Concert" performance?

People have been passing off that ABC Wide World In Concert
which was televised on ABC in 1974 as a Bootleg. HOGWASH!!!
I think there were only 6 songs!!!
Horse With No Name
I Need You
Lonely People
Ventura Highway
Green Monkey
Sandman

If it's something different, hey get it to Steve pronto!!!

Billy Preston, Patrick Moraz and Thomas Dolby (although the latter not so much for his keyboard prowess as his genius in using it) are my keyboard demi-gods! As a 10 year old, I sat furiously trying to transcribe "Will It Go Round In Circles" from the radio (and later the 45) to my piano....not an easy task for my little hands, lol...I can still play it to this day.....(C= Now if I could only sing like Billy (well, then again maybe not..lololol)

TkH<------+=!

Thanks for the additional information Johnny - I was very curious to know what else you knew about the record, that was the reason for the 1001 questions. It just gets curioser and curioser ....lol.
Maybe you will find out more from (American) AIR if you can still track them down. I have to agree that this is a fascinating find - I was also amazed to read Mark's experience with a "Latino" America and John Corbett coming across the "Don't Make Me Over" track listing years ago.
Johnny - you said there may be another America track on the bootleg that's not listed - is it "Don't Cross The River"?
Chris

Johnny,

Where did you find that old bootleg? Try to get a picture of the cover to Steve so he can put it on the web page. Thanks for the info!

Do you like Reptiles Ingrid? For me Dewey’s “alligators, lizards…in the air” has nothing to do with flying reptiles, but more to do with a state of being. Like being out in open spaces, free and wild.

According to the CD sleeve Eric’s Reptile has every thing to do with a state of being. Eric’s uncle, who passed away during the recording sessions, was known as a reptile. “Reptile" is apparently a term of endearment from Clapton's childhood. Sorry, no cobras on stage.

This afternoon, I was able to listen to both songs from the "other" America's 45 thanks to a local thrift store that had a working stereo console with a turntable. The record is definitely from around the mid-60s. It brought back some of the feelings that I remember back then while listening to Oklahoma City's radio station, KOMA.

There was some "heavy" organ sound on "Don't Make Me Over" that was somewhat typical of that time period. The whole song sounded very nice. To me, the lead singer sounded amazingly close to David Cassidy! That's who I would have guessed the singer was had I not really known. The flip-side was a good song too but I think "DMMO" was definitely the better of the two.

Also, I hope to be sending Steve some information soon about that live 1973 or 1974 bootleg LP of America on Side 1 and the Eagles on Side 2. Mark and Howie, you two guys may be particularly interested since you both submitted information to Steve regarding that LP. The LP cover is plain white. The front of the cover merely has a blue piece of paper with a photocopied drawing of a couple engaged in an embrace and I suppose they're kissing since you see neither person's face but only their hair. They're kneeling on top of a car hood. The cover lists 4 America songs. An omitted song on the list is "Green Monkey" as some of you may know. HOWEVER, if I'm correct, I believe there's another song that's not listed. It's one we all know well and it should rightfully be included since America was a trio at that time. In other words, it's one of Dan's songs. The listed songs are: HWNN, Sandman, I Need You, and Ventura Highway.

I agree Mike -- Dewey has amazing guitar fingering. You can "see it" on their recordings and it is very fun to observe up close and personal. Just one more reason why I'm -- oh never mind.

Can you explain the "REPTILE" Clapton thing to me? I haven't seen the album or tour materials yet -- I'm trying to get a visual. I went to one other "reptilian" concert: Aerosmith in 1996 had a stage set that included several representations of cobras, the smallest being probably 25 feet tall. Not at all attractive IMO, but one of the words I've always used to describe Steven Tyler is serpentine (in his movement), so they weren't exactly out of context. Not that I expect things in show business to be in context, you understand, but as one usually very attentive to detail, I do appreciate it when it's there.

Eric was fun for the guitarist because his finger work was plastered up on the big screen monitor for every concert attendee to see. So was Billy Preston’s keyboard work, Beechlady. “Will it go round in circles”.

Maybe America could start doing the same at their shows. My favorite America concert was when I sat up close and witnessed Dewey’s underrated rhythm work, along with Gerry and Michaels varied guitar skills. Maybe that NZ critic would change his tune if America plastered their guitar and keyboard work in front of him and every other concert attendee’s eyes.

I don’t mind America being underrated. They are accessible. I can look forward to a fabulous America Live experience every year here in the Western United Sates. Hopefully I will continue to have that opportunity for several years to come. Maybe the visibility in NZ will get you the same chance. I probably won’t be seeing Eric again.

Eric was fun for the guitarist because his finger work was plastered up on the big screen monitor for every concert attendee to see. So was Billy Preston’s keyboard work, Beechlady. “Will it go round in circles”.

Maybe America could start doing the same at their shows. My favorite America concert was when I sat up close and witnessed Dewey’s underrated rhythm work, along with Gerry and Michaels varied guitar skills. Maybe that NZ critic would change his tune if America plastered their guitar and keyboard work in front of him and every other concert attendee’s eyes.

I don’t mind America being underrated. They are accessible. I can look forward to a fabulous America Live experience every year here in the Western United Sates. Hopefully I will continue to have that opportunity for several years to come. Maybe the visibility in NZ will get you the same chance. I probably won’t be seeing Eric again.

Gidday Mike B; I've seen Eric Clapton in concert twice in 1991. Was a huge fan at one time and I cringe a bit remembering how I used to drive around in my beat up car with CLAPTON IS GOD spray painted on the side! A bit tongue in cheek as it was some years after the original graffiti appeared in London! Clapton is generally regarded as one of the guitar greats, its true, but to my ears his acoustic work was no better than the guys on the AMERICA album. Being a guitar player myself I have always felt that Dewey, Dan and Gerrys guitar work has been most underrated. Deweys rhythm playing on THREE ROSES for example is, in my opinion, outstanding! But youre right about EC in concert- the first lead break he did at the show was unequalled to anything I had previously heard! Thanks John C for your reply.

Makes me wonder about what the trademark laws are when it comes to group names? I know when Kurt Cobain and Nirvana made it big in the early 90s, they ended up having to pay some money to some guys who were in a little known 60's group called Nirvana. A few years ago there was a Latino group that had released a CD or two going by the name America too. I mistakenly bought one of their CDs thinking it was some international release of the "real" America. I don't know what happened to them. I wonder what happened to the "original" America (since that 45 cover looks like it came from the late 60s)?

Thanks Chris, John C, John D, and David for your interest in the "other" America's 45. I thought the record was quite fascinating myself and I'm a bit surprised that there wasn't more of a reaction to it here.

I purchased it from a record collector who actually thought it was put out by our guys. Of course I didn't tell me it wasn't until I had it safely in my possession.

I assume the "Not For Sale" on the label does mean it was a promo record. I do believe it is a legit record. Like John C, I sure would like to know more about this other America such as the name of the band members and the date that the record was recorded.

As far as whether AIR (American International Records) is still in existence, I don't know but I would tend to think so. It's quite ironic I think, that our guys had an association with AIR in the past. That, of course, was via the recording and release of "California Dreamin'".

As I had mentioned before, I haven't successfully played the 45 yet. I attempted to earlier but the needle on my turntable is worn down and needs replacing. When I did try to play one side of it, the record sounded a bit psychedelic but I think that was due to the poor condition of the needle. Naturally, I didn't want to continue playing it with the worn needle.

I actually believe the songs are probably quite mellow because of who wrote the songs: Goffin-King on "Don't Forget About Me" and Bacharach-David on "Don't Make Me Over".

jimbob,

Although the crowd was deservedly giving Dewey, Gerry, and the gang a standing ovation at the Canyon Club, I could have sworn that Gerry mentioned Mike Love of the Beach Boys. Of course, I could have been wrong on the name, but the two people I was with concurred that it was Mike -somebody- and he was with the Beach Boys. Matt later told me he thinks his name was actually Mike Morrow, although the closest name I could find was Mike Meros, who is touring with the group.

john

It's August, and the Cubs are still in first place. If the Cubs can pull off such a miracle, then perhaps Dewey and Gerry might have another couple hit singles in them after all.

john

It's neat to finally see the "Don't Make Me Over" single cover sleeve. I remember being in a record store nearly a decade ago, picking up a price guide, looking under America and finding the entry "Don't Make Me Over" under some different record label. I dismissed the entry as a misprint or something, so it's interesting to see the jacket. Does anyone know ANYTHING about this group, or have the singles on .mp3?

john

oops, fer-got that i...lol

TkH<----+=! 8/3/60

Ahhhhhhhh critics.
Those who can do, those who can't critique......most of the "put down" critquing that goes on is by those who have to make something look bad to find the "center".......it's almost like there just can't be GOOD for GOOD'S sake,eh? (Or the versa) Ugh.

TkH<------+=! Bad is only in YOUR head (C=

Yeah, I think you're right - or maybe one is Tom.... lol! This is "Bizarro World". So where did these 45's come from Johnny? How come they are stamped "Not For Sale" - were these some kind of promo? Or maybe some kind of joke... lol if so? Do AIR still exist? More information please Mr Yee!!
I am sure that you know more................
Chris

Been away for a few weeks, but somebody asked if I would report on the Eric Clapton concert.

From the Kelley Lange Show 4/2000
DEWEY: aspect. I’ve always loved guitar players, so I always go with Mark Knopfler, or Jimmy Hendrix, or Santana, or Eric Clapton. I love guitar players. I like that kind of solo guy with his guitar.

I agree with Dewey. And now, I know why Eric has a biiiigggggg reputation as a guitarist. I saw Eric Calpton’s show last night – superb. From the acoustic beginnig to the best strat electric leads I've witnessed, to the slow acoustic final. A CD or radio listen does not do him justice. Gotta see it live. Has anybody here seen his show? For me, the best show I've seen -- after America of course.

Hello everyone,I thought John Corbett's post was spot on,America have also out sold CSN and out toured them,also superior production and two number one singles.This is not to knock CSN but to give credit where credit is due.If America do take on NZ I wonder if they would change their set list as many new listeners would like what they are hearing on this compilation ?

sorry, that should read HWNN.

John, your comments I agree with. I am curious to know who the bearded man was who played keyboards on HWNM at the Canyon Club. I read Matts post that it wasnt Mike Love. What led you to believe it was?

The whole CSN&Y deal does get pretty old after a while. Especially when Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young are pretty much only known for their first couple albums as well. If you ask me, their later stuff is more-or-less a poor man's America. Almost thirty years later, journalists are still congratulating themselves for their witty comparison of Dewey to Neil Young. I'm afraid no amount of boxed sets or greatest hits compilations will change the minds of those who never really did want to get over Woodstock.

john

Why is it that America is not promoted as it is, for example, in New Zealand or elsewhere? If America wants to get back on the charts--and who says they do--then they need to do a lot more promotion of their music. Especially in today's world, they need to make a video. I've seen so many other groups get back into the "ears" of listeners, just because they made a video. Why not America?

Hi everyone! Well, I have been pretty happy these last few days, I have to admit. Each record store I go into there's the big bright orange logo of AMERICA, television is advertising the DEFINITIVE CD in prime time,Deweys singing coming over the tele beautifully,and radio is plugging the album every hour.As you folk would understand, this is confirmation, in a way, that this music is indeed GOOD and I was right all along in my absolute belief in these guys and their songs. So it was even more pleasing when I saw a review of the CD in New Zealands biggest selling newspaper today.But my happiness turned quickly to annoyance as I read the drivel written. It was as if this critic, who is highly regarded out here, had read every article about the band and therefore couldnt write something positive for fear of ridicule. Apart from this website I have not read much good about the guys over the years and this I dont understand. A poor mans CSNY? Whoever wrote that wouldnt have known how much that would be used in future reviews."Wimpy and faceless folk-pop" I find a bit offensive as I have spent much money on fine acoustic guitars to try and make that sound! The end of the review said; "But expect tele-advertised America to be huge again." Bravo to that!

Sorry Sheri..just saw your post as I have not been lurking lately. Hmmm..Sept 28/29 Coach House? I belong to MD Anderson that following week, so it may be tough...I do love the Coach House though. You just need to convince your husband that you absolutely must go!
In answer to your question, I live in the sprawling metropolis of Sharpsburg, GA. I visit So Calif frequently, as all my family is still out there. If all goes well, I will be coming home soon too.
There's no place like home. :-)

Chris and David, I think the guy at the very bottom looks like Dan on the "Holiday" LP cover (try doing a comparison); the second guy from the top looks like Gerry; and the guy with the mustache looks like Dewey without a beard. Who these guys were as America is a mystery it seems but they appear to have been America perhaps even earlier than our trio. Legally, I don't think they both could be America at the same time, could they? I guess it's sort of like, "Which came first, the chicken or the egg?"

Beech, "Rodent-ian"...that's a good one!

"Mind Games"...can you "Imagine" that?. "My Sweet Lord", G. HARRISON's gone CRACKERs (box palace) again but who am I to talk, right? This all reminds me of McCartney's "Flaming Pie"! LOL

You're right Pete. It looks like everything is back to normal.

Steve, I could'nt get into the web-site earlier but some reason I can now.

Any of you who haven't had a chance to listen to Janet Jackson's hit single featuring the Ventura Highway guitar lick can listen to it now by downloading the MP3. It will be available for a few weeks by clicking on the following link:

Someone To Call My Lover MP3

I just found out that all of the America Fans web site HTML pages have been deleted and I don't have access to the server anymore. I'm not sure what's going on (another virus perhaps?) but I'm looking into it. I'll post another note here as soon as things are back to normal.

The chat is on! Hope to see you there ( Official time, 6-9)

Amen TerryT. Gotta put people down to make one's self look better. Pretty sad.......Remember what Thumper's Mom said. "If you don't have anything NICE to say...."

TkH<--------+=! waiting for that million dollars, then--rofl!

Hey isn't that Dan on the top of the stairs? ....lol
"Someone To Call My Lover" is now #5 on the charts here.
Chris

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Last Revised: 1 September 2001