Archives: March 1999

Bones, I won't be in Torrington on the 13th, but I will be in Madison, WI on the 23rd! Anyone else going to see America in May?
-b

"Love Me Do" by the Beatles or "Pictures of Matchstick Men" by the Status Quo (I don't remember which one I got first - probably the Beatles song).

YEAH!!!

Bones, as soon as I posted that, I realized the true answer: Women have been Picking Up men's stuff for years. When they're not around anymore to stop us, we simply Throw It Out that Last Time we Pick It Up!!
-b

Guess it won't be hard for the boys to talk me into a Baysox game this day!!! Only 1 1/2 hours from home...I'm there!
Michelle

Bones, I'm not quite sure, and I hope I don't offend anyone, but it seems to be somehow related to the ovaries....!!
Beth

sorry, was in Florida a couple of weeks ago. Question: why is it ok for a woman to throw out man's stuff (junk) but a woman will go nuts if a man wants to throw out their stuff?

Elvis...Return To Sender...yup I'm old!!

Jim, Erie, PA.

Since I don't have a Mac I can't tell you for sure how to listen to this fantastic song, but I've put three different file formats out there so you ought to be able to listen to one of them.

If the Real Audio doesn't work for you, try downloading the MP3 file. There are quite a few MP3 players available as sharewhare or freeware out on the Internet. Go to Yahoo or Alta Vista (or your favorite search engine) and search for MPEG3 Player. That should give you quite a few links to try out.

Finally, if the MP3 doesn't work for you, you should be able to download the WAVE file and play it on your computer. WAVE files have been around for ages so I have to believe that every computer (even a Mac) would have a way to play a WAVE file.

Good luck!

Bones, my first 45 was, I think, Lady by Styx. We had this question a few weeks ago and my answer was different then...but it got my memory working for me. I'm pretty sure it was Styx.

Yes, that's a Mom-thing. Take you schtuff WITH YOU when you leave, guys, cuz we're chucking it out when you split and turning your bedroom into whatever else we want!! :->
Stay tuned-b

Does everyone out there remember the very first 45 record they bought?
Mine - sent in 2 box tops and 50 cents and had the postman deliver: Gary Lewis and the Playboys - This Diamond Ring (remember that song). Boy i thought they were cool!!!!! Thank God my taste in music has changed. Can't believe my mom threw out all my 45's years ago, not to mention my baseball collection. To all the females out there, is that a mom thing or what? Got my tickets today for May 14th. Anyone in CT. going to the show in Torrington?

Happpy Birthday Willie..Ryan hasn't used his drumsticks, but shows them to his friends..he's afraid to ruin them..! Nice story about Seals and Crofts, Robyn..and Tim...you saw them in concert 4 years ago? What did they sing..do you remember? Anything new that they had recorded? My son set up the system in order for me to hear "Houses in White"..Steve are you out there? Robyn and JL need help! Gotta hear it..it's great! I'd tape you a copy Robyn..but I don't know how!! :0

I, too, haven't been able to get this song to play. I loaded the latest version of Real audio onto my Mac. It says something like Error 15 when I try to get the song to play. Any suggestions 'cause I am feeling really out of the loop with all of the discussions around this tune. Not to mention I am dying to hear the damn thing!!!!

My computer does not allow me to hear anything!!!!! Can anybody hepl me, by maybe taping a copy or something???? I feel like I am really missing something here!!!!!!!

Love it! Also, agree with Mark, synthesizers are distracting to me. But hey, I'm not quittin' my day job!

Happy Birthday Willie! It's my neice's b-day today, too. Now I'll always rememberYou!

While I can see the point in airplay for Ventura Highway in a Pontiac commercial, and more & more bands are lending their songs to such purposes, it catches a little bitter taste of "sell-out" to me. Only my opinion! My fear would be kids who would only think of VH as a commercial diddy. Like I was shocked to find out the "Anticipation" song wasn't just for Heinz Ketchup....

Stay tuned-b

They used to live in San Fernando, even played a benefit at my high school ( we were really poor, our band uniforms were black jeans and K-Mart windbreakers) The benfit enabled us to get REAL ones, so those guys hold a special place in my heart.

JOHNNY- CHECK YOUR E-MAIL!!!!!

Seals and Crofts. Whatever happened to them??

I saw them in concert (with LRB) about 4 years ago. Jim Seals was living in Belize I think. I believe they just had their day in the sun and kicked back. Also I believe they are active in Baha'i faith.

Tim

Tim

Happy Birthday Willie!!
I hope you have a GREAT day!

Happy Birthday to the best, "substitute teacher look" guy there is, tee hee.
Mags

Yes, happy birthday, Sir William!

Here, here!! Yes indeed, Happy Birthday wishes to a super drummer!!

Fantastic! I can't wait to hear the rest. This song is extremely haunting- good hook, strong lyric and the singer is pretty darn good too!!! Great collaboration- looking forward to hearing more of this creative stuff...UCONN HUSKIES ARE NUMBER ONE!!!

It's Wednesday evening and I'm wishing Willie the BEST and many more! Sorry I couldn't make it to the party this year. To an awesome drummer and great guy, a toast from Terry Trost.

Hey everyone...America is now officialy in second place for the Best Band voting (600 votes behind Depeche Mode). Let's keep those votes coming! Remember, you can vote 5 times per hour.

Mag

Sure am glad the little old lady trying to reach "Rose" is no longer so confused that she's not even sure if she has the right number!
I like the additional background music in the second verse, it adds a complexity to the song, makes it sound as if the song is growing.
The lyrics continue to be wonderful! I can so easily visualize this song (always in slow motion).
Is there a different voice in the final part of the second chorus?
It sure is exciting to be able to follow the birth of a new song!
Michelle
(same Michelle, new ID...too bad we have to lock our doors in this neighborhood)

That was me..their Summer Breeze album (1972..yes Warner Bros) is one of my favorites..do you not have it? Mine is not for sale, but will happy to tape it for you and send you a copy..not sure what the quality will be on my antiquated stereo system..yes, I'm technologically challenged..I even to hate to operate the VCR..anyway..it is a great album..a must have! Whatever happened to them??

"Houses In White" does start with an "H" so it qualifies as a possible title track to an America album. But I get the feeling this is a solo effort. Otherwise, where's Dewey in this process? (Besides, it looks like they already have the album cover designed.)

I'd love to hear Gerry perform songs from Van Go Gan at America concerts. It's a shame songs like Playing God, Emma and one of my all-time favorites Now Sue only live on CD. I agree with Mark. Some of Gerry's finest work.

KevinS.

Sounds good. Though just to provide some critical feedback (and I assume that is one of the reasons Gerry is letting us hear this work in progress), I prefer the simpler approach of the first verse. The synthesizer (?) in the background of verse 2 seemed like a bit of a distraction to me. But that's just my opinion, it still sounds great.

I don't know if this is being done in preparation for another America CD or a second Gerry Beckley CD. If it is the latter, Gerry will need to tour in support of it if it is to have any chance of getting airplay and being commercial success. That would mean either taking a hiatus from America or possibly touring as America featuring Gerry Beckley, and giving Gerry part of the show to perform his solo stuff and push the CD. BTW, why don't they perform anything from Van Go Gan in concert? Some of Gerry's best work is on that CD.

Hey You People,

Steve - thanks again for the wave file. The song sounds great - what a cool opportunity to hear something in progress. Also it shows a good understanding from the band about the devotion of the folks on this site. Nice job to let us 'inside' for a little while. I have 2 wishes for the next CD project; Mumy/Haimer collaborations and LIVE DRUMS! Looking forward to the next section of 'Houses'.

Peace
Joe B

P.S. Somebody mentioned Seals & Crofts in the duos discussion. Unfortunately they were on Warner Bros. & all you can get is a greatest hits CD and one other regular album. Their stuff isn't even available on import. Damn You Warner Brothers!!!!!!!!!!!
(sorry about the language - but I'm very angry)

This song keeps getting better.

KevinS.

<<"Zoyxx gtst zaetzz ootss rr nogg Stzeg tgtt mrsszro tlk rrsm">>

I think somebody's cat ran across the keyboard unnoticed as Moon Song lyrics were transcribed.

Tim

Absolutely beautiful....I love it!

Great work, Johnny. You must be independently wealthy to be able to spent the time you do (tv, great trivia questions, managing the promo for the band...) coming up with all the stuff you do. :-)

It just keeps getting better all the time!
Can't wait to hear more!

I just read the following from Ginny on the AOL folder:

I got a scoop that America will be playing at Baysox Stadium in Bowie, MD on July 3rd. They will be with other bands. Tickets go on sale April 10th at 9AM at the stadium........or noon through Ticketmaster.

Also, the first 500 people to buy tickets to the show (bought at the stadium) will get a pair of tickets to an upcoming Baysox game.....Free!

i think that's in code for: i buried paul(beatles)

... and yes, I have converted the MP3 file into Real Audio and Wave file formats for those of you who prefer those formats. They don't sound quite as good as the MP3, but they're much smaller and they get the job done.

If you've been waiting to hear even more of Houses In White, your wait is over. Gordon sent me the second MP3 file in a series of files which are yet to come that are tracking the progression of Gerry's work in progress. There is over a minute more of the song in this second set and it completes the first and second verses. I can hardly wait to hear the third installment. Thanks a million Gordon!

The lyrics on the "lyrics page" of my Homecoming songbook say the final lines of Moon Song are as follows:

"Zoyxx gtst zaetzz ootss rr nogg
Stzeg tgtt mrsszro tlk rrsm"

.......and, yes, I did have my fingers on the correct keys!

As requested, here's a link to the Federal Reserve Bank in Dallas. There are quite a few Federal Reserve Banks so I had to search until I found the one closest to Kevin. On the first page there is a search field. I tried typing in KevinS but it didn't let me access his account (darn!). If anyone else can figure out how to get at his account, let the rest of us know (LOL).

Hey All, I just spoke with Bobby with AMERICA's management company in Los Angeles and told him about the "Ventura Highway" and Pontiac idea. He was very receptive about the whole thing. I will be faxing my post from the chat folder to Bobby's boss, Ms. Che'vy Nash of the management company and will leave it in their hands to pursue if they are interested. Let's keep our fingers crossed!

The remaining trivia answers are:
Little Caesar's Pizza...."Boogie Fever"
Whirlpool................"The Way You Do The Things You Do"
Mobil...................."I Believe I Can Fly"

Yes, Tim, "Fly Like An Eagle" is by Steve Miller.

JL (John), you don't need to watch more tv. I watch enough for the both of us.

Has anyone ever heard of the band that is in first place?? I haven't.
Under-rated (at least right now) Male-Dave Mason and Female-Carla Bonoff..(think she began as a back-up singer for Linda Ronstadt)..another male would be someone I have mentioned a few times..Terrance Boylan..just don't understand how he faded into the woodwork so soon..actually I had not even heard of him at the time, but a couple of friends had given me the album for helping them move..one of the best gifts I have ever gotten..still listen to it. Well, I'm off for 11 days as of this moment! Yippee!!!

Remember a week ago when I mentioned that Pontiac and "Ventura Highway" would be a great match because Pontiac made a Ventura model in the late 60's and early 70's? I suggested that a Pontiac commercial could show their popular 60's Ventura and GTO and compare it with their even more powerful and re-styled 1999 Trans Am convertible as it's driving up a winding road with the top down and "Ventura Highway" playing. To my great surprise the other day, indeed Pontiac has a current tv ad showing a late 60's GTO Judge along with their new models. This is a golden opportunity for AMERICA's management to pursue Pontiac about using "Ventura Highway" in their commercial. Chevrolet is doing great with The Doobie Brothers' "Rockin' Down The Highway". Like "Ventura Highway", "Rockin' Down The Highway" is also a 1972 release. Who is the car market's greatest target of buyers? Baby Boomers, I would think. Who would recognize these seventies hits? Again, Baby Boomers. Who grew up in the late sixties and early seventies dreaming of owning a musclecar but can't afford one on a grocery sacker's wages? The answer again is Baby Boomers! Chevrolet and Pontiac are both divisions of the same corporation, General Motors. So we know GM is open to the idea of hit songs in their commercials. The answer to the "You Didn't Have To Be So Nice" commercial is Dodge. "Break Out" is used in a Ford commercial. The answer to the "I'll Take You There" commercial is Chevrolet. Someone needs to inform AMERICA's management of this GOLDEN OPPORTUNITY!!! Karen D, you said "Wheels Are Turning" last time I mentioned this but it was a bit vague. Is it regarding "From A Moving Train" and Amtrak or Pontiac and "Ventura Highway"? Liner notes from "Human Nature", shows Gallin Morey Associates to be AMERICA's management. Business Management is listed as Goldman, Lichtenberg, Wasseman & Grossman. What do you all think of this idea? I would hate to see AMERICA miss out on this WONDERFUL opportunity! We all need to push this idea. Imagine the exposure "Ventura Highway" would get. We just need AMERICA's management to go forward with this. Who should we contact to get this idea moving?

<"Fly Like An Eagle". Can you all believe that even the US Postal Service uses a rock/pop song in their commerical? Can someone name the performer? It should be an easy one>

Steve Miller.

Tim

Hey, I wouldn't mind that direct link to Kevin's bank account either.

Just placed my votes for Best Band Of All time. I voted for America. Who did you all vote for?

Thanks, Steve, for the direct link to the Best Bands Of All Time site. Once again, you've come through for us.

Now here's the next request. If you could do this for me, I'd really appreciate it. A direct link to the Federal Reserve Bank so I can make transactions to and from it into my bank account as needed.

KevinS.

Tim, Yes you are 100% correct on all of the performers!! Good going! I'm sorry for not mentioning that. I was too focused on the performer, song, AND corporation. Joanne, that's right about the US Postal Service and the song, "Fly Like An Eagle". Can you all believe that even the US Postal Service uses a rock/pop song in their commerical? Can someone name the performer? It should be an easy one. Also, I think "Sister Golden Hair" would be a good song for a hair coloring product.

I gotta watch more tv. Sorry, Johnny, can't help with any of these.

Hi Johnny, "Fly like an eagle" Is the United states Post Office> My husband is a Mail carrier,Johnny love the way you keep everyone thinking.Take care Joanne

Agreed! Years ago Jeff told his college roommate that some day he would work with either The Beatles or The Beach Boys, and he of course brought that dream to fruition by touring with the BBs. His contributory work with other artists (such as on VGG and HN) and of course his solo career, have not gone unnoticed!

ToEaHisOwn

<"Break Out" isn't a Detroit Wheels commerical. Who or what is Detroit Wheels by the way? Nor is it a Clearasil commerical (ha, ha).>

Break Out was a Top 100 hit for Mitch Ryder & The Detriot Wheels in 1966.

So, how many of artists did we get right?

Tim

TZMAC, ToEaHisOwn (& to everyone else), very nice try on the commerical and song trivia.

Yes on "Happy Together" by The Turtles for Burger King.

"Break Out" isn't a Detroit Wheels commerical. Who or what is Detroit Wheels by the way? Nor is it a Clearasil commerical (ha, ha).

"Boogie Fever" isn't Burger King. Nor is it Nyquil (Another ha, ha).
Hint: A food establishment.

"The Way You Do The Things You Do" isn't Burger King. Hint: It's an appliance company.

"I'll Take You There" isn't Burger King. Sorry, but no hint.

"I Believe I Can Fly" isn't an airlines company nor Nikes. Hint: Oil company.

"You Didn't Have To Be So Nice", yes The Lovin' Spoonful. Hint: it's an auto company.

Here's another song/commerical to guess: "Fly Like An Eagle".

Ok I put in my 5 votes!!! Lets go guys

The voting restrictions are kinda weird. It let me vote 5 times earlier today. However, I just went back like an hour later and it let me vote 5 more times.

Up to #5 and 100 votes!

Tim

Apparently we are limited to 5 votes.........PER DAY. I voted on Monday and just went back and added 5 more on Tuesday.

Tim

Here's a direct link that will take you straight to the page where you can vote for America. See John, I can take a hint.

Just checked. We've leapfrogged over Poco and Def Lepard. Next, Metalica.

Yea!!! We're now winning over Poco, too! Forgot that I had 5 votes to cast. I can sleep well tonite. Thanks all!
Stay tuned -b

I know this is still several months away and if any of you are like me you don't necessarily know what you are doing tomorrow, let alone in August. I am trying to organize a trip down to California to visit by brother and thought I'll to take in America's concert in Paso robles on August 5. Will take my 5 and 6 year old boys to their first concert ever. Figure it should be America and start out with the best of the best. then they can grow up to be contented, fulfilled individuals who will know the true meaning of life. (ok, maybe a little strong)

Anyone else planning on going?

Just did my patriotic duty and voted for America (not bad for a Canadian, eh?). Seems America is still 2 shy of Poco. Maybe Steve can add a direct link for us to this site. Hint. hint.

threw in my 5 votes. we're gaining on poco. got my tickets today for may 14th, in torrington, ct. can't wait.

Another underated artist in my opinion would be Jeff Foskett. He has a great voice. He is currently playing with Brian Wilson on his solo tour. If you get a chance to see that show you better take it. A friend of mine who was lucky enough to go said it was magical.

My answer for underated male artist would be Mark Heard. He is so underated that I would be very surprised if anyone has ever heard of him. He started his career in the Christian music circle but was never fully accepted there. He refused to give in to the Christian music power brokers. (apparently not enough hallelujah's, amens and thank you Jesus's). He said that he was a songwriter who was a Christian not a Christian songwriter. After being shuned by the Christian music elite he continued to do really good independent projects. His style might be best compared with Bruce Cockburn who was a friend of his. He unfortunatly passed away 5 or 6 years ago. Great songwriter.

Everybody GO VOTE NOW!!! America is only one vote ahead of Hanson in this silly election!!! (Before I voted, they were Tied! We Can't Have this!!) :->
Stay Tuned -b

Actually the site appears to be on WWW not on AOL, as I first saw it described.

AOL has some non-scientific vote going on for the Best Band of All Time. Those of you who have AOL access, please vote!

Here's the URL if you'd like to vote (vote 5 times.. it will let you!). America was added to the ballot by Tim.

http://www.freevote.com/booth/music_band24

Dewey sings Sargent Darkness
Gerry sings Hells' On Fire
Stay Tuned -b

I don't watch too much TV, so I can't give too many answers on this subject - altho I think "I Believe I Can Fly" is a Nike commercial - Michael Jordan comes to mind....
Stay Tuned -b

Here is what Tim (TZMAC) and I came up with (give Tim credit for all CORRECT answers, lol).

Happy Together = The Turtles = Burger King
Break Out = Mitch Ryder = Detroit Wheels
Boogie Fever = The Sylvers = Burger King?
The Way You Do The Things You Do = The Temptations = Burger King?
I'll Take You There = The Staple Singers = Burger King?
I Believe I Can Fly = R. Kelly = ??? some Airline...
You Didn't Have To Be So Nice = The Lovin' Spoonful = ???

Now if someone can fill in the blanks for the commercials...

Thanks, Howard!!!

Thanks, Howard!!!

Well, I FINALLY found the Swithchfoot cd. Wonderful stuff! I think it will improve with each listening. I found it at Tower in Glendale (along with A copy of "Your Move" and "Alibi") The Virgin Megastore in Burbank is a joke. They never have anything!!!!

Has anyone heard from Karen D? I have been out of my office, and haven't been able to keep up with stuff. What's going on there?

Johnny, my collegue is working on the translation for us. He has a list of titles to work from. Most of it is words that sound like the English ( i.e. "A new title from America Our grass") This was actually on there. We shall see what he comes up with.

As for v. versa-- I would like to hear Dewey's version of I need you. and Gerry's version of Green Monkey. Hmmmmmm

I will give you the title of a song currently used in a TV commerical and you have to give the performer's name as well as the company/corporation in the commerical.

Happy Together; Break Out; Boogie Fever; The Way You Do The Things You Do; I'll Take You There; I Believe I Can Fly; You Didn't Have To Be So Nice

Good Luck!

Hey,

If you like Lobo you need to get the "best of" that Rhino put out a few years ago. More tunes, really thorough liner notes & discography, excellent sound. I like a bunch of his songs like "Sure Took A Long, Long Time", "Don't Expect Me To Be Your Friend" but in all honesty a lot of it is quite repetitive. Still a good CD, though.

Peace
Joe B

To answer Truthsaint's question about underrated male performers, I would have to go with Paul Davis, pop and country, singer/songwriter. He has written and performed such songs as '65 Love Affair, I Go Crazy, Do Right, Love Or Let Me Be Lonely, Cry Just A Little, Cool Night, Sweet Life, and I Won't Take Less Than Your Love performed with Tanya Tucker and Paul Overstreet.

While I'm at it, my choice for an underrated female performer is Brenda Russell. She is a very talented singer/songwriter. Perhaps her best performance is Piano In The Dark. Her songs have been performed by Luther Vandross; Earth, Wind, & Fire, Oleta Adams (Get Here), and Donna Summer (Dinner With Gershwin).

Has anyone checked the Homecoming songbook?
When I get home, I want to see if it says anything.
From what I remember, I think it says something for the end
of the song. Hey anyone with the songbook, check it out.
hl

Johnny:

I have posed this same question many times, also mentioning the "Beatleseque" backwards lyrics. Been trying to watch the video cd closely lately to see if it will shed some light. This is one of those fun little oddities...

ToEaHisOwn

The Beta version of the Chat Folder software has undergone an extensive test the past two weeks and all of the known bugs have been fixed. Therefore, I have switched the Chat Folder over to the new software permanently. That means that you'll need to register before you can post to the Chat Folder. Registration is fast and simple so do it right away so that you can continue to join in the fun.

I wish the guys would sing lead TOGETHER!!!! The combination of their voices is much better than either one separatly. America is the greatest!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I am a Carolina fan but since they were knocked out early I guess I have to pull for my home state DOOKIES and The ACC!!!!!!!!!!! Go Duke!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

In 1971 at the age of 16 I heard "Horse' for the first time. My life has forever been changed. I have been to countless America concerts, from Texas, Utah and Oklahoma. I have the Complete America catalog and their "Musik Louden" video tape. My wife, DeAnn, and I will be going to Roland, TX to yet another concert this summer. Can't wait!!! All five of our children have grown up on Americas' songs as well. All I can say is all you fans out there is to keep playing your CD's and keep calling your local radio stations. DONOT take them for granted, appreciate them and respect them. Dewey and Gerry are two of this countries greatest song writers. I can't wait for their next CD. I love you guys. Hello to Vivian and Kathy. Hope to here Michael in future works.

After my post mentioning my collectors copy of the 1st LP, I went back to my collection and found my information to be incorrect. I have an Import edition of the 1st LP with nothing listed between "Children" and "Here". Only 5 songs are listed on the first side with the 2nd side being exactly the same. So "Everyone I Meet Is From California" was never on an LP until it was retitled "California Revisited" for the "Homecoming" LP. I just wanted to clear that up. It IS strange realizing that I have an authentic English First-pressing release of the 1st LP. Too bad it's not in very good condition. Yes Johnny, I found this at a Garage Sale. I was very psyched! Hope everyone had a great weekend! GO UCONN HUSKIES!!!

At the very end of "Moon Song", it's quite difficult to understand the words. Does anyone know what is being sung? Someone ("Riverside" is his/her nickname from last Thursday night's chat) asked if it's something sung backwards. I gave it a good listen but can't figure out exactly what's being sung. Any ideas from you all??

Thanks Janice for the thrift store lead. I look at all albums, cassettes, and CDs at garage sales for the fun of it and just in case there's something that I can't live without. I bought an album of one of my favorites at the Salvation Army last month for 50 cents, Crowded House. Two weekend's ago, I bought for 50 cents, "The Best of the Grass Roots". It's surprising what some people will let go. I have found several Beatles LPs, specifically "Something New", "Rubber Soul" and "Abbey Road" for a dollar each. I found the Beatles' first album but when I went to pay for it, the seller said she didn't know that her husband put it in the stack for sale. Rats!!

On this rather slow Sunday, I'd be interested in comments on who you think the most underrated male singer in pop music history is? There have been many great ones, but I'd chose Lobo. He put out some absolutely beautiful ballads back in the 70s and into the early 80s. If you want an excellent lp, "Lobo Greatest Hits" on Curb records. You can probably find it in the Wal Mart cheap rack, where I recently found America's "Ventura Highway And Other Favorites" for $3.99!

you are right janice, if it's not broke, leave it alone.

That E-Bay Aution Place that was mentioned..try it..I have not yet had time to check, but my son (Nirvana fan) :( found some great deals..signed CD, video..stuff like that..

I'd actually like to hear Gerry trying "Hot Town"..lol...just kidding..actually no song comes to mind..you can't improve on perfection. Hope everyone is having a nice weekend..

Gerry Sings Molten Love
Dewey Sings She's A Liar

Johnny..try antique stores..many carry old albums and "neat stuff"..even thrift stores..Goodwill, Salvation Army..and while you're there, make a donation..good for the soul. :)

Gerry: Garden of Peace
Dewey: Now Sue

How about Gerry singing "Today's the Day"?

Jim Erie, PA

After this weekend the Beta version of the Chat Folder software will become the Real version and everyone will be required to use it. The biggest difference between the current version and the Beta version is that you must register before you can post anything on the Chat Folder. Once you have registered, your name (or alias) and e-mail address will automatically be associated with each post. All you'll have to do is enter a password before you post.

If you'd like to try the Beta software now so that you can get used to it and get pre-registered, simply follow this link:

Chat Folder Beta Software

I believe that all of the bugs are out of the Beta version but if you happen to run into something that you don't think is right, please let me know before we switch over Sunday evening. Thanks!

Just finished attending 15 garage sales this morning and once again, no AMERICA records, tapes, or CDs. Found a Beatles cassette of
"Sgt. Peppers" for 25 cents which is a rare find. My v. versa selection is Gerry singing "Horse" and Dewey, "Sister Golden Hair". Dewey singing "SGH" would be so strange yet so cool. Tom T's AMERICA album without "Horse", we all know is rare and a great collectible. Do any of you others also have this LP? One of mine has only "Horse With No Name" printed on it and the other has "Horse With No Name", "Riverside", "Sandman", and "I Need You" (not necessarily in that order, however).

Actually instead of tape I think God would go for a more elegant audio playback system......How about DVD? Maybe even just Telepathy or Clairaudience......lol

um, Bones? YOU TOOK MINE....... Now my afterlife is surely going to hell.....lol

Brad, email me please, i have a question for you about dan peek.
thanks howard lieboff

On Horse I like Dan singing. I have him singing on the old Ralph Emery show Nashville Now around 1987 on VHS. I would like to hear Gerry sing Three Roses and I would like to hear Dewey sing Someday Woman.

Hello all,recent mention was made about Hourglass,when I first heard it I did'nt like it, but with constant listenings it has been a frequent visitor to the cd player.This album did not have much in the way of traditional acoustic guitar solos but much of the production reminded me of Gary Katz's work with Steely Dan in particular the album Gaucho.Now to the vice vesa question I would like to hear Dewey sing Sister Golden Hair,and Gerry sing Ventura Highway.Hideaway is also a bit of a favourite of mine,Amber Cascades how was that not a huge hit,the splendid Watership Down love the backing vocals on that one,and She's a Liar should have been a classic.Often mentioned is Who Loves You,Ca'nt You See has been an overlooked number for some reason,and the rest of the tunes on this album could hardly be described as fillers.Doe's anyone remember Gallgher and Lyle , what about 70's and early 80's Poco,Paul Cotton and Rusty Young.

Johnny - you ask a very good question. have to sleep on that one. I'm trying to hear dewey sing van go gan. gerry singing any of dewey's songs, now that's tough. any one get tickets yet for the show in torrington,ct on may 14th yet?

Yes, I had selected Seals and Crofts as my favorite (former) duo.. :)

Has anyone mentioned Seals and Crofts as another once-prominent duo? Unlike America, though, they disappeared...

Hey Johnny- I think Dewey would do wonders with "Till The Sun Come Up Again". I love that song- the lyrics, the melody and the chord changes are great. Maybe Dewey could compose one more verse and stretch the song out because it IS awfully short. Oh Johnny, don't forget that Dan's original version of "Everyone I Meet..." was originally the B-side of "Horse..". In fact, when the first pressings of the First album were released, "Everyone I Meet..." was in place of "Horse". Believe it or not, I have a copy and it's wierd looking at the cover and the label and NOT seeing "Horse With No Name" anywhere! So "California Revisited" wasn't even the original version of itself. LOL! Should I just say, DUH Tom- No Kidding! Thank God It's Friday! Go UCONN Huskies!!!! See Ya...TeeTee

I received the following request from Juan so I'm passing it along to all of you. You can write to Juan at marship@redestb.es.

My name is Juan Manuel Escrihuela from Barcelona (Spain) and I would like to contact with you for interchange material about América. I´m very interested to get singles in pic-sleeves, rare tapes, videos, cuttings from around the world, etc... Let me know your mail address if you have material for trade or sale.

Many Thanks.
Your Friend

America fan, Shayne, found an interesting web site while surfing around this week and he forwarded the address to me. Check out http://www.erie.net/~bbelovar/wildman/scary.htm and pay particular attention to who wrote several of these songs. If anyone happens to have access to these songs, I'm sure we'd all love to have you share them with us.

Hi, Jim. Glad you found us here.
Would like to know how you got here, if you didn't even know the guys are still recording.
Their newest release, "Human Nature" came out in September. GREAT cd. You should be able to get it at any 'record' store. Most places have at least one copy in stock.
America has been recording and touring continually over the years. Over the last 10 years, not so many recordings, but have toured that whole time.
Suggest you check this site often (daily or more!) if you're really a fan. This is a great bunch of people, and the site is a lot of fun.
Pick up Human Nature. You'll be glad you did!
Take care. ShariL <><

Although I like Hidden Talent a lot, I enjoyed reading KevinS' clever "endless loop" comment. So it's true: One man's trash is another man's treasure. One man's hell is another man's pleasure. I made up the last part. I know....don't quit my day job. (ha, ha)

As you all know, Dewey does a great job on singing lead vocal on "Everyone I Meet Is From California" from Hourglass. The song was originally sung by Dan on Homecoming as "California Revisited".

Discussion Topic: What one song that Gerry sings lead on that you'd like to hear Dewey sing and visa versa.

my fav.....Crosby/Nash.......
I also like the duo of Thrasher/Shiver...pegged as country...they have more of a pop-Everly Brothers sound...they have some really great harmonies......not well known......they in my mind should be at the top of the charts...(like America)noted songs include "you and I belong"...."tragedy"...."the rails"..."be honest"...(on asylum records...like the Eagles)

Hi Ike!!
I just want to say I'm glad to see your webpage up & running again!!

FYI..
Thats Jerry with a "G". Gerry - thank you

Hi again everyone. Just one more time.....is anyone here planning to attend the concert in Wichita, KS on May 26? Also, if Gerry and Dewey read this chat folder, I sure would like to say hi when you come to Wichita. Been a fan since I was 16 (1972) and never met them or obtained an autograph.

Re: End of the world.....I think I'd take my all time favorite, "I Need You"

I think it is remarkable that these guys have withstood the strains of time and are still together. It's great, and I for one enjoy the continuing saga....

Hey America fans! I've been on line since jan. 97 I never considered there would be an America site.How can I hear a clip of their "new?" song or cd? I met Jerry Beckley one time backstage at Greek Theater in LA. I got back there while they were practicing a couple of hours b4 the show. Some guy asked me what I was doing here, I told him I was with the "sound crew".He bought it. A little later Jerry came back there I said Hi and Goodluck.This was '81.I had just came out to LA from the East. It was a Goal to somehow meet him. andlucky for me it happened soon.It was cool.I didn't even know these guys were still making cd's? Late/....

lol..it sure flies when you're having fun..actually it is 8 years, 4 months, 15 days, 17 hours..well, you get the picture. I'll have 25 years with my company, eligible for an early plan..still have lifetime flight benefits, and young enough to change gears and do something new and different! (Have a dusty guitar under my bed..never learned how to play..poems in my head that have never made their way to paper)..2 older boys will be through college by then, and ronnie..well..he'll love Wyoming!

Oxygen Records. She hasn't been in evidence for a while, so I hope that means that good things are happening.

who's Karen D?

ahhhh, this think called retirement. seems like only yesterday my friends and i were sitting at the local pub and sipping down mugs of brew and giving our philosophic views on life and waiting to get out of college. i'm looking at nine more years for me. where has the time gone? "as i lie in my bed at night, i see my lifeline erode". maybe i can get a job selling america t-shirts.

Hey, Karen

I was wondering, did you ever get any feedback on the guys being on Live by Request? would you like us to do anything?

Thanks for all you do.

Beth: you're welcome..a cabin..lucky you..I'm planning an early retirement in 8 years..a cabin in the country is my dream home with unobstructed views of the beauty around me..ahhhh..see? life is good. and Kevin..very funny post..you gave me my giggle for the day! :)

I have been out moving boxes of Library books in the rain, so excuse me if I ramble.
RE-- fan meetings etc. sounds like a great idea. Although I am a Left Coaster, I will bring the fixin's for "my" house drink, a "dirty Mother" that's a shot of tequila, a shot of vodka and a shot of Kaluha ( I make my own) in a glass of milk. You can only have two.

Re favorite duos. Most of mine have been mentioned. I am also partial to a group called Pinkard and Barnes. They do, among other things, that tender country ballad " Ain't nothing funny 'bout a woman with a gun" The tale of a woman who finds her husband has been cheating on her and fires a warning shot thru his chest. A Parody on COunrty Music.

KevinS-Do you suppose God has "Harbor" on CD? (SIlly me, of course he does, He's God!) That would sure beat harp music!!!!

Yes, Dave, you should go buy Human Nature. Give "Pages" a good listen.
Michelle

Hey Bones and You people,

When the world ends at 12 midnight 01/01/2000 (as we all know is gonna happen) I'd go with the entirely appropriate (and entirely underrated) "Goodbye" from 'Hat Trick'.

Peace,
Joe B

P.S. Flashback to duos discussion - I was listening to Hall & Oates' most recent effort 'Marigold Sky' in the car today - there are about a half dozen outstanding tracks on the CD. However I saw them in concert last year and it was a humongous snore fest. Good playing, good singing, but no energy or emotion. It made me really appreciate the consistent energy/fun/effort that Gerry, Dewey & the rest of the guys continue to provide time after time.

I'd take Cornwall Blank with me.

But I get the feeling God would probably already be listening to Homecoming when I get there. Of course, if it's the other place I'm going, they probably have Hidden Talent on endless loop.

KevinS.

Serves me right for thinking I could slip those past you. Will go with All My Life. (I think)

Hello Everyone! It's been a while since I was in here-just listened to "Houses in White" clip-sounds really good.What has been the response to it in here?-nice to hear things in developement like that. I have not heard anything from HUMAN NATURE yet-did it get any airplay in US? I am a US Citisen working in London-so tell me, Should I go pick up Human Nature? Anyone in England? Thanks-Dave

Beth -
Hang in there. "Better Days" made me think of the song, "Watership Down" from the Hideaway album. That song has gotten me through some tough times . . .
Take care.
Connie

not fair JL, you can only pick one.

Another great question that is impossible to answer.

Have to go with "All my life" or maybe "One in a Million" or maybe " Ventura Highway" or...or...or...or...

I have a big house here in Halfmoon Bay on the Sunshine Coast in Beautiful British Columbia. Everyone is welcome. US dollor makes it really cheap for all of you. I don't mind hosting Gerry and Dewey and the rest of the Horse Heads. Hey, it's the least I can do. (we got great beer up here too) :-)

Bones, I like it! Also liked the idea someone ("hopeless dreamer") brought up last week about a Question of the Month...
TomT, Intrigued by your post about Fan Appreciation Parties...and thanks for the good thoughts.
Stay tuned - b

Hey Bones, I was at that show too! Great concert- and it was really fortunate that the roof stayed intact until a few weeks later when it collapsed. I remember the Palm trees and the huge Persian-type rug that covered the stage. Burton Cummings was really good too. I have seen some fantastic shows thanks to AMERICA. Your Town Meeting idea is a very good one. Awhile back someone suggested that Gerry & Dewey should pick a location so that this cool collection of people known as "The Friends Of AMERICA" could take part in a Fan Appreciation Party. Artists like REM, Taylor Dayne, Neil Sedaka- all different styles & Fans- perform at these intimate, by invitation only type of celebrations. So in other words, if not a Town Meeting of sorts, how about a Fan Get-Together? That way we could touch base with others in this Chat Folder, and we can show our gratitude to Gerry & Dewey for all their hard work and dedication. Hey Beth- I'm not a parent but I just wanted to say hang in there. Parents aren't perfect, Kids aren't perfect and- for the most part- Families aren't perfect. It's difficult to say it right for me, I've gone through some of that stuff too. I honestly can say, that if I got the chance to do it all over again, I would've stayed the goody-goody, straight "A" student and I would've allowed myself to Grow up before I got (shall I say) Experimental. Keep the faith. And to John (JL)- your e-mail never got through. So check your e-mail for my message-Thanx! TeeTee

here's another great idea i had today at school. i've been reading the chat folder for about two months and enjoy the comments from all you america fans. i can remember seeing them in the hartford civic center after the harbor album came out. they played with burton cummings formally of the guess who. i was probably the only nut out of 12,000 fans or so yelling, HEY GERRY- PLAY MONSTER, PLAY MONSTER, really love that song. anyways, here's my idea - every now and then there's someone who posts a question reguarding the band, like the H question and i enjoy reading the responses. remember when our president,(you know the guy who waved his fist and shook his finger and said,"i did not have sex with that women monica lewinsky",ya right slick) had town meetings. what ever happen to those anyways. So, this is what we fans do. after the tour is over, we pick a couple of sights across the united states and have an america meeting with the band. of course after touring this long they deserve a nice long vacation, but you know they won't rest. we get some beers, some food, take some pictures, and we ask them all the questions that we ever wanted to ask them. i guess you fans on the west coast could drink wine instead of beer (ha, ha, ho, ho, he, he). I'd drive across a few states to sit down with them and b.s. for awhile. i like it, what do you fans think and what does gerry and dewey think?

As far as I know there's going to be another single released. The official announcement will come from Oxygen Records.

"Houses In White" is a song that Gerry has been working on and a friend of his sent it to me. I don't know what it's eventual destination will be (group CD, etc.). Everything I know is posted with the links to the song (/america/housesin.htm).

one more try, is there going to be another single release? why so ong a wait? also is houses in white for a group cd or a slo. thanks

Janice & Patti
Whole lotta wisdome coming at me! Gotta love us single moms! Janice, thanks for your thoughts - especially about your folks. It's how I feel about mine, too. My dad was so supportive to me when I went thru the split. I moved into our family cabin, and my folks were still in Florida (they summer up here in WI) and when I called to let them know the phone was hooked up, my dad's first words to me were, "Are you okay? Do you want me to come up? I can be there in three days" WOW! That still blows me away. If you'd like to meet him, he has a web page! It's a family album and takes A LONG TIME to load: http://home.att.net/~rfmercier/ Enjoy if you choose!
stay tuned -b

Bones, I'd take "Here" off the first album. Just because...
Stay tuned -b

I am stepping up on my soapbox, so if you scroll past this message I won't be offended. First..it would have to be Clarice with To Each His Own as a close contender.
Beth..I'm sorry..you must be devastated. As a full time working mom of 3 boys, 15, 13, 5 my heart goes out to you. Although I grew up in a very strict family, and continuing the tradition (no drugs, alcohol, smoking or profanity in their home, or mine, however, I do like a glass of wine with dinner or beer when I am out with friends)I can however, certainly remember the peer pressure I was up against. My parents trusted me, and I trust my kids, as I trusted my parents. They have been married 50 years, and I count them as being my very best friens. I was gravely ill in Sept and they were here to take care of me and the kids in a fiash. I have enormous amount of love and respect for them for the way they raised us 3 kids in the 60's and 70's. No home is perfect, and ours isn't either..I have had terrible luck in the marriage department, having a gypsy spirit, and being fiercely independent, I turned all my energies toward my career and raising my kids. I keep things simple..I give them everything they need materially, and some of what they want. I find that by setting high expectations for them they meet and somewhat exceed, which is always good for their own self esteem. I hold them accountable for household responsibilities and homework..and we have lots of fun. We share a love of music, traveling and the outdoors. Why am I telling you all this? I don't know..maybe you can get some ideas..find ways to connect, to divert his attentions to something more positive. Keep those hugs coming and best of luck.

Hi Beth - Being a single parent is really tough. My kids are 18 (son) and 13 (daughter). I've been divorced for about 10 years and most of the time the kids have been with me. All I can say is stay close to them and let them know you care about them more than anything else in the world. Divorce is hard on children, but they can learn a lot from our mistakes. We all manage to grow up - some take longer than others - but your son is at the age when he absolutely, positively has to test you. Be strong!

Of course, I meant "think" -! -b

What a question! I need to thik that one over.
-b

My Friends, Thank you all for your kind words and feedback! I am still blinking back tears occassionally today, but much better than yesterday. My boys are with their dad now till next Monday, then they'll come back to me. We have been doing joint custody since divorce four years ago. However, my ex just took a new job and it looks like the boys will be more based at mom's house! Divine providence? I certainly have heard good input from a lot of folks, and it sure is good knowing I'm not alone! I have no trouble asking for help - it's Justin (my 14 yr old) who seems to have a block there. I just have to try to help him even tho he doesn't think he needs it!
Stay tuned -b

Love the Title. "H" being the letter most left silent in English pronunciation ( Hey, I taught English Comp for a while, these things amuse me).

Favorite Song? All My Life

Moment to Moment. The last bit has been inspiring to me lately. ( hey, I moved four libraries in four weeks, I need some inspiration!!!)

Bones, great question. For me, "HOPE"!

It would be "Garden of Peace" for me.

today at school i'm thinking to myself, what if i knew the world was going to end on friday and i wanted to take one america song with me on tape in hopes that another civilization in another time and place would find the tape and listen to it. i'm taking "till the sun comes up again" off the homecoming album. I'm just going to walk on till the sun comes up again. what is everyone else taking? interested in your responses.

Ah, sent , send, no difference. Guess one should check messages a little more closely before posting.

Tom, I sent you an email. I have your cd. Let me know where to sent this.

thanks, John

Johnny,
The Switchfoot CD title is "New Way to be Human".
Two hits at record stores in my immediate area did not net a copy, so I am also going to order via the internet. I still owe myself "Harbor" and "Hideaway" (the only two I'm lacking now in the quest to replace vinyl), so I'll be getting a lot of good music in a few days.
Beth, I'm reading a lot of good advice here. Everyone's situation is unique, so I'm sure you will find a solution that works for your family. My daughter and son are 20 and 17 and are SO different in personality and temperment that I've found that what worked for one doesn't necessarily work for the other. Now that she's in her third year of college, my daughter has actually thanked me for being somewhat strict with her in high school. Best of luck to you.

Howard, what is the new Switchfoot CD called? I'm placing an order at the local music store and the title will help since they have another one out from a year or two before, I remember reading here.
Thanks

my kids are 7 and 4 (soon to be 5), and as a parent you try
your hardest to show what's right and what's wrong (amazing what they
pick up from kids in school at an early age), along with discipline
and especially values. Along this bumpy ride, I'm glad to see we all think alike as parents, and want the best for our kids.

Also, ordered the new Switchfoot cd from www.musicblvd.com for 12.57
plus they sent me a $5.00 coupon...not bad. So Matt, it'll be at
least a few days until I get it to listen and evaluate it.
As far as Christian music is concerned, hey we listen to Dan Peek's
material right? I'm not one for this type of music, but if the song
has great rhythm, melodies and beat, why fight it?

Peace for now, hl

Someone (Beth??) asked which song is each of our favorites from "Silent Letter". It's a really tough choice because there's so many great songs. If I have to pick only one, I would say it's "Foolin" because it's so upbeat. I really like the album cover, too. I have it placed on my top shelf in my bedroom. The huge, up-close photo of Gerry and Dewey makes it look like there in my room in person. The back cover is great also because The Guys look so confident.

In John Corbett's "Comprehensive Report" on AMERICA, he writes:
"Unlike the reviewer's prediction, America decided to break with tradition and give the new album a name which didn't start with the letter "H". The name it was given, Silent Letter, was a less-than-subtle attempt at poking fun at the whole tradition and at the same time showing their resolve to take a new direction."

Wow, I feel really bad for you. I'm sure you are probably getting plenty of advice, but each child is unique and may respond differently. We had something like that happen with my son last year, it didn't involve drugs but it did involve "contraband" that we don't permit in our house. He was 15 at the time and his mother found it in his room. He was duly punished but I had a talk with him that went something like, son I'm very disappointed, you betrayed the trust we had in you. I told him we did not allow that stuff in our house, as long as he lived here he had to live by the rules of the house, and I didn't want him having a bad influence on his younger brothers and sister. I told him that he had forfeited any rights to privacy and that from now on we had the right to search his room, and read his mail. We also put an early curfew on him. While there has been some grumbling, things have generally gone well and there hasn't been a reoccurrance.

Good luck.

the harder you push, the more they will push back. try to take a deep breath and look at it from another angle. don't become the bad guy. get what you want accomplished by being the good guy, it'll be easier. I don't know what that way is, but you'll figure it out. but if you just say "no, you're bad" then you're screwed. because he knows you did it too. and then you've weakend your foundation.

remember 2 things, and hopefully they'll help. 1) kids don't feel their worst when you've taken away the playstation, they feel bad when they really KNOW that you had a high level of confidence in them (something that you need to pre-establish) and then they KNOW they've let you down. that's what hurts. 2) a person we all know (that has blonde hair and glasses and sings about fictional women) had his senior quote in his highschool yearbook be "The greatest pleasure in life is doing what people say you can not do" (and his son reportedly echoed that on his senior page many years later) anyway...

luck to you. we all worked together to come to this conclusion

the gurus de health

Bones, my favorite off Silent Letter was always Only Game In Town - Love the guitars! But, after obtaining the cd after years without hearing the album - my new favorite has emerged as Tall Treasures. I did, however, pick up the Ventura Highway & Other Favorites cd a few years back JUST BECAUSE it had Only Game on it! Also love Cast The Spirit, off Your Move. That song takes me back to some different hard Days just into college. Folks had just moved from WI to FL. Abandonment!! Cast the Spirit really spoke to me. Lot of sad lonely nights that song kept my heart safe.
Stay tuned -b

JL-Yes! I agree, once these rough years are thru, he will rejoin the human race. I hope America can keep the tunes coming for the long haul!
Stay tuned-b

Michelle - Thanks for sharing your experience! I plan on allowing my son to breathe and to eat, and that's about it, until June. We've done this dance a few times already. It sure is hard to let go again and let some freedom in. We had made some progress, I thought, and now it's dashed again. Ah. Parenthood. Thank God for America. Surely do think I would've gone into deep depression without On Target making me lift my head up this evening! Music plays in the background, but when I sit up and look around for the cd cover to see which song it is, I'm hooked!
Stay tuned -b

I listened to the MP3 file on Houses in White today many times. I love it so far. I always try to figure what going on in the story, I'm still working on this one. Only after reading some of the posts did I realize that the opening voice is saying Rose, Rose? Guess my hearing is going in my old age, ha...

One full circle, round, round, round. One more calendar coming down. Late editions, scandal, lies, every headline full of lies. Houses in white, oh how they take me back. There was a time that I lived inside
now I think twice, I walk quickly by houses in white.

Mark in KC...

I have a 5 year old and a 6 year old. When I've had a hard day with the kids I keep telling myself just wait until the rebellious teens. This is nothin'.

Just remember that once they are through this time they will once again become human beings. They'll even think we are too.

Hey Beth!
Had this same type of hard day about 2 months ago with my 15 yr old son. School called to verify a day that he missed two classes...skipping school. Went into the computer chat he uses to see who he'd talked to about skipping, found references to cigarettes and "weed". Dad and I confronted him with it, and of course he took the defensive..."What right did I have to go through his chat history?" Simply told him that the call from school broke my trust of him and took away his rights to privacy.
For six weeks he had no life - I drove him to and from school, allowed him no telephone, no computer, no going anywhere. I'm still leary of letting him have too much rope, and this probably isn't the last we'll see of this problem, but I know I've got to let up sooner or later. His dad's trust will be a lot harder to gain back...dad was a wild teen, and he hates watching our son do the same things that HE did. He knows first hand where it can lead.
Hang in there, and talk, talk, talk to him! My son apparently didn't know where I stood on this issue before, but he, AND his 13 yr old brother, sure do now!
Michelle

I meant album "title", not cover. (duh.) Must be late Up North, too!
-b

Bones, yes - get any & all feedback you can! I keep telling myself i'm not a bad mom - heck my folks weren't "bad" & I did all this schtuff growing up too. It's just, I was a bit more grown than 14 when I first dabbled into that realm...

Patti, thank you. It helps knowing the thoughts are out here for us!

My choice for next album cover "Hard Day" !! Just kidding....
Stay tuned -b

I too felt that after Dan left that Gerry and Dewey changed the titles as either a tribute to Dan or perhaps it just didn't feel right to keep things the same. Maybe just a conscious effort to forge something new. Maybe it was Dan's idea to begin all albums with "H". Any inside info, Matt? I am pleased they have gone back to it. It's just a little quirk, but cool. Any ideas what the next album should be called?

Beth - Wow, that's a tough one. I can only imagine how you must be feeling. I have a 13 year old. Good luck.

Beth - favorite songs, only game in town (love the horns) and
no fortune. i saw america about 5 or 6 years ago when they played in norwalk, ct. i knew someone who knew someone who let me go meet gerry and dewey. i asked gerry that question because i wondered that myself. what happen to the H's? then comes silent letter. don't really remember what his responce was, guess i was just glad to meet both of them, but it had nothing to do with the departure of dan. actually i asked them alot of questions. can't wait to see them in may when they come to torrington, ct. hope i can get human nature signed. don't give up on your son. keep talking to him. it's late here on the east coast, got to hit the hay. have to face those little devils tomorrow. if you need and answers dealing with your son, i can ask people at school what they would do. (not saying your a bad mother) i hate to see this happen to young kids.

Thanks, Bones. I can't imagine being a H.S. teacher these days! We were hard enough when we were kids! So, what is your favorite tune off Silent Letter? Also, I have a theory about the album title. Up to that point, it was all "H" titles. Silent Letter was the first without Dan. To Honor Him, they left the H off. Anyone else have other theories?
Stay tuned -b

I won't get too graphic (no pun intented, for those who know) A bong is a type of pot-pipe. Eeeegads!

not to sound naive..but what is a bong? maybe i don't want to know.

know how you feel. i'm a high school teacher. not an easy way to earn a living. been doing it for 21 years. sung to myself a few america tunes today to get me through. ran right out at the end of the school day and cranked "silent letter" in the car. i guess their music can change your mood quickly. good luck with your son. i hate to see that happen to young kids.

know how you feel. i'm a high school teacher. not an easy way to earn a living. been doing it for 21 years. sung to myself a few america tunes today to get me through. ran right out at the end of the school day and cranked "silent letter" in the car. i guess their music can change your mood quickly. good luck with your son. i hate to see that happen to young kids.

My choice for fave duos---The Carpenters, England Dan & John Ford Coley, Seals & Crofts, George Jones & Tammy Wynette!!-JOYCE

Hi All - I've had a rough day today. Found a bong in my kid's bedroom last night. Just turned 14 two weeks ago...Not Good... And once again, America's music has the strength to pull me out. Sitting here, I put Encore in the player. Hadn't listened to that album too straight thru too much - always skipped right to Hell's On Fire and turned it up Loud! Well, tonite I wasn't in a skipping mood...just let it play...and discovered a song I hadn't previously felt a bond to! Before I knew it, I was singing along to On Target. The re-winding chorus at the end really picked me UP! "Baby turn your heart around....da da da Who'm I gonna run to...di di di di di di..."
Well, my friends, I sure needed that. My son will be okay - eventually. I will be okay too. It's gonna be a real rough road, but I'll get thru, because I know all the little stuff to take care of me! America songs will always be there for me, even when things look the bleakest, Gerry, Dewey, and Dan can always be counted on for comfort.
Stay tuned -b

JoeB,
Nice spelling of can't - also! It's okay, sometimes I pronounce it like that when I hab a bab code....
Stay tuned!
-b

Michelle,go to where you went at the start of the search and go scoll down to albums and cds and records. there you will find a bunchof cds that you can get hope I have been of some help. Big G

Hey Joe B,

Nice spelling of interested. Ever hear of spellcheck, dude?

Sincerely,
Joe B

Hey You People,

If anyone is interetsed in adding some vinyl to their collection,
www.discountoldies.com has Horse/I Need You and Sister/Ventura
listed for 2.50 each. You cab't order directly over the internet, but catalogs and toll free numbers are posted on the site.

Helping You Spend Even More Of Your Hard-Earned Money,
Joe B

Hey Howard,its funny you mentioned the Smothers Bros. The first time I saw America on TV was on their TV show!!!!( During one of their infamous ironclad 13 week TV contracts) Joe

I started to type my last message and stepped away for about thirty minutes and came back and finished it. Now I see all the posts regarding Switchfoot. Count me in. I called the local music store, Hastings. They don't have it on the shelf but I'm going to order it!

Thanks to Karen we know that FAMT was #1 in Spain and that Wednesday Morning is moving up the charts there as well. Is there a place to get chart info for other countries? Are HN and any other singles hits in other countries? If so how would we find out?

One of the local radio stations here plays a game each day called, "Pop Quiz". To the winner goes a free pizza. You guessed it; a few of the clues were: Sons of American servicemen; lived in London; 1972 Grammy winners. Unfortunately I wasn't the winner but I wanted so badly to get through so I could mention "Human Nature". I called
the DJ afterwards and asked if he'd mention that AMERICA has a new CD called, "HN". He asked if it's the original members and I said yes, it's a duo now and it's the original two. Unfortunately, he didn't mention it on the air like I requested but I sure tried.

Thanks Matt,
I'm sold.

let that be enough is such a beautiful song. actually written and recorded on his birthday.
i was worried the christian rock thing might turn people off, as it usually does me. but it's not bad and blatant, more like a bunch of christians in a pop band.

rock on. kevin you rip.

mB
BluLight Studios

Kevin,
Thanks for the review. Guess I'll stop at The Wherehouse on the way home.

Just bought the new Switchfoot album. It's great. It rocks. The best way for me to describe it is Matthew Sweet meets Fastball, which, to me, is pretty darn high praise.

As far as Virginia reading that it's Christian rock, it wasn't until you wrote that that I went back and listened to it again. You wounldn't know it from this album. In fact, you wouldn't know it at all unless you actually read the lyrics.

The word "divinity" which shows up in the title track, but that doesn't mean it's the sermon on the mount. And on a pretty, acoustic song called "Let That Be Enough" the chorus goes "Let me know that You hear me, let me know Your touch." But if you didn't read the lyrics and see the uppercase Y, you'd just as easily think he's singing about a girl.

Hey, I'm not a Christian rocker either. Far from it. What this ablum is is a collection of positive, upbeat pop songs with a real youthful rock song. If that's Christian rock, than show me the door to the rectory, I'll sign up.

KevinS.

Matt,
My curiosity was piqued by your enthusiasm for Switchfoot's new CD, so I checked CD Universe and it was listed along with a 1997 CD. This is a group I am not familiar with. The genre is listed as Christian Rock-which is a classification I don't care for (no offense to anyone, just my personal taste). So, before I would consider buying it, I would want a little more information about the group and its music. In other words, sell me.

I sure did! My error was that I was trying to go through all the Pop & Rock catagory items for auction...way too time consuming! I didn't know that you could type in a specific group's name and bring up just their items. Of course, "America" is part of other album titles, and they come up also, but the list is still short enough to manage.

Great fun, and a few interesting things, but I am looking for CD's to replace my vinyls, which they didn't have any of. I'll keep checking, but my bet would be that CD's, since they're not widely available, are being purchased by fans doing the same thing I'm doing, and they'd not part with them for anything! Guess I'll have to purchase them new. Everyone here should check out the e-bay site - but don't ya'll be bidding against me if any CD's come up!!!

I've just about worn out the three I have...History, Homecoming, & Human Nature (can you wear out CD's?!?!?!?). There are good points to that, though...my 15 and 13 year old sons have been known to turn off the noise blasting out of their rooms to have a clearer listen to America...and can be caught humming along!

Michelle

Hi Michelle,I was wondering if you found the bands articles that are up for grabs on ebay?

Oooops! I forgot my name and subject. Johnny

Michelle, sorry but I didn't make myself clear. I wasn't meaning to apply that it was specifically, with no doubt, a particular situation. I think "Houses In White" makes reference to scandals in general whether nationally or personally. By "sound familiar", I meant that particular scandal could be included as a type of one in Gerry's song. I think your thoughts are accurate ones too and I agree with you. The subject material reminds me a bit of Don Henley's "End Of The Innocence". I liked your "Leave It To Beaver" reference. Did anyone watch the Academy Awards and hear Whoopi's reference to "Leave It To Beaver"? After her reference, she jokingly said that she probably won't be asked to come back next year. It was quite racy.

At lunch time here in NYC, at HMV and Coconuts...can't find it.
I know it's available on www.musicblvd.com.
I'll look tomorrow in Sam Goody and Virgin Mega Store.
hl

(should be) available everywhere. they played 3 of their songs in a row on the radio last night and I almost wrecked my car. and no i'm not on the album. but that doesn't make it any less fantastic. :)
going to the record release show tonight at the del mar fairgrounds, SD residents, tickets available through ticketmaster.
sticker offer still stands.

mB
BluLight Studios

(should be) available everywhere. they played 3 of their songs in a row on the radio last night and I almost wrecked my car. and no i'm not on the album. but that doesn't make it any less fantastic. :)
going to the record release show tonight at the del mar fairgrounds, SD residents, tickets available through ticketmaster.
sticker offer still stands.

mB
BluLight Studios

I hate to think that Gerry would memorialize THAT with a wonderful song!

Or maybe a death due to one's own hand after the uncovering of a possible scandal? Sound familiar?

I feel worse for the little old lady who's trying to call Rose...she's got "some bad news" to tell Rose, and she's so confused about it all she's not even sure if she's got the right number. I hope we find out soon what the news is, and if she had the right number.
Sounds to me like there are memories of a bad marriage break-up associated with houses that, from the outside, look like your typical 'leave it to beaver' happy home.
Michelle

I wonder if the "bad news" intro in "Houses In White" is fictitious or from an actual phone message. I hope it was the former. Either way, it makes me feel really bad for Rose.

Yes, "Hourglass" is WONDERFUL and so are "HN" and "Homecoming". It's difficult to compare "HN" and "Homecoming" to one another. Both are great in their own way. "Homecoming" is a big-time classic!! I love everything about it....from the songs to the album cover. I'm amazed how polished looking the guys are on the "Homecoming" album cover compared to the first one just a year before. Matt has me very curious about Switchfoot, too. Another duo favorite of mine is an "unknown" mid-70's group, Fool's Gold. The duo is Denny Henson and Tom Kelly. Kelly has performed background vocals on "Alibi" and "View From The Ground". The Fool's Gold sound is a mixture of Dan Fogelberg, the Eagles, and Poco.

Hi Matt,
Good luck with your hair cut. How did you do on your finals? Is the CD available in most store, say like Tower Records or Borders? Let me know, OK. You have a great day, too. Maureen.
PS - I spoke to the man with the 'cords' on Friday night!! I told him about your joke and he laughed!! See ya.

Matt, now you have me,us very curious about
this new Switchfoot CD. Now we'll definitely
have to check this out. We'll let you know.
I'm always up for good new music.

Some fav Duos: Loggins and Messina, Everly Brothers,
Aztec two step, Smother Brothers, and a small unknown group
called Williams Brothers (check out Harmony Hotel CD, Great!)
I'm still thinking. hl

how would all you america fans compare homecoming to human nature? both are excellent. could listen to both cd's for days and days and days and.....

Everly Brothers and perhaps the most famous duo of all....Dolly Parton. LOL- just a joke (I couldn't resist). To Matt- as they say in Show-Biz, "Break A Leg!" Congrats on the new release, looking forward to hearing it. Gotta go..TeeTee

ok. so it's tuesday. and I'm getting a hair cut. but more importantly, the Switchfoot CD is out. New Way to be Human. I got more stickers then I can handle from jon, so if you pick up the album lemme know and I'll try and send some to you. it really is very good. i hope you all enjoy it a tenth of how much i do.
and i think harbor sounds pretty good.

enjoy the rest of your day.

mB
BluLight Studios

I've been going through the archives again...whatever happened to "horseheads"...anyone do up a T-shirt?

Also found posts by another Michelle. Didn't know that ID had already been used. Guess I'll come up with another one.

Got my tax return in the mail today - YEAH!!! - time to place a CD order (before hubby spends it all on power tools)! All I have to do now is CHOOSE a couple!

Michelle

i guess theres going to be no more singles off of human nature? what a shame. what happened? what a waste of alot of work on a great cd. i emailed karen but got no reply about a week ago. also the new wav file,is this song for a solo cd or a group one? thanks

my brother ronnie was in the navy in la. well he went to an america consert in a bar. they started playing tin man and my bro stared dancing and there like "uh we never ment this to be a dance song but this is the 90'S cool!" after the show my brother got them a drink and went backstage with them. and he asked them to autograph my mom's america shirt. (mine's black so that was kind-of sorry) they said sure thing. then the bouncer dude tried to pull him out but gerry said let him stay. so they autographed it for him. he stayed for awhile met kathy and stuff. afterwards he walk gerry to his porsh and shook his hand. gerry said nice meeting you got into his car and drove off. my bro was thrilled. my mom was also.

I think for me, the sign that America is in a league all of their own is that you can listen to their music a thousand times and enjoy it each and every time. I am right now listening to the Centenary Collection. Ventura Highway is presently on. I honestly do not know how many times I have listened to this tune. I have it on several different cds and cassettes. The opening bars still bring an instant smile to the face. The same is true for most songs by America. With many other artists, after a few times the songs tire, feel stale, there just isn't the substance either musically or lyrically. Not with Gerry, Dewey and Dan. Their music is truly timeless. I guess it's what keeps us all coming back after 30 years. Brilliance at work.

Hey Ron B.- Thanks for mentioning Stealers Wheel! They were great! Also- Aztec Two-Step. They opened for America in New Haven in 1978. It was a great Show. It was a Benefit for the Shelly Frank Foundation. This was an organization which assisted Folks with Alcohol related problems. I remember America performing "Another Try" as a centerpiece to this special show. Dewey said, "Wasn't Aztec Two Step Fantastic? We Love Them!" Other Duos 10cc (Last three LP's), Batdorf and Rodney (Cool)...I'm still Thinking...See Ya..TeeTee

Just wondering if people were awake out there.

I second that emotion and I'm saying it live!

not really bout america but the awesome person who has this website
he put my favorite song off of "your move" and he's made my time on
this web an awesome time!keep it up!and america keep on jamin yall rule!

John, did you really type that message or did you have someone type sink it for you?

Milli Vanilli? Just kidding. :-)

certainly the recording equipment has improved but.... harbor did have some good tunes but you can't compare it to human nature. listen to the first album and homecoming, i think they sound just as good as hour glass and human nature. hearts and hideaway are two of my least favorite albums. a few good songs but to me it wasn't typical america. after dan left the group and silent letter came out i thought the music was very good. everything after silent letter seemed to get better and better. after listening to human nature about a zillion times i was glad to hear the acoustic guitar sound was back along with the great backround vocals. it just amazes me that after all these years, gerry and dewey can still put together quality music. i guess that's what makes us fans begging for more.

I have to echo the sentiments about Air Supply. I saw them in concert back in their early 80's hey-day and I gotta admit it was a great show. Their ballads had so much more power live...and they knew how to rock too.

Jim Erie, PA

Steelers Wheel(Gerry Rafferty and Joe Egan) Joe Egan is as good as Gerry Rafferty. His solo stuff is rare but excellent.
Air Supply-I met them about a month ago and were very nice and very good in concert. It seems they are like America in that some people don't think they are a "cool" group to like.

Thanks for welcome "Terry" & "America SL". Sorry haven't been on the internet lately. I was very pleased to hear the info on "Vetrock 99" I will definitely be attending. It is only about 30 min from my home. Can't wait till May 15th Still looking for anyone with OLD America videos.

C YA

Houses in White was MARVELOUS! A minute and a half was not enough. I had to play it several times to get satisfaction. Can't wait for the new cd.

Well, after I saw America when they came through Nebraska last summer
I "rediscovered" them..got their latest (Yes, Human Nature IS great)
and like so many here started buying their back catalog on C.D. I purchased "Harbor", because I remember in College I had it on vinyl
and wore it out. Several of those tunes...especially Sarah Please,
and Seargent Darkness are gorgeous (Beckley tunes) and really brought
back bittersweet memories. My point: In a comparison with the voice
quality of Dewey and Gerry then and now...not only does Human Nature
hold up, there are a few tracks on Harbor that, well the voices sound
a little weaker. Example: Listen to Don't Cry..a beautiful song, but
the voices sound a little tired and even a tad off key during the chorus harmonies. I know this was just before the Peek split...perhaps
tension...maybe still some partying?? I really don't mean to be negative...actually I am impressed how great the Duo sounds now...and
are even doing better work. Ofcourse the digital era and better production values may account for some of this. What are some of you
America experts thoughts on this? Mitch

Some added info for the recent post:
The tax deductable (less the CD value, please see your tax advisor) donation is $100, that includes shipping & handling. The American Cancer Society at
3255 Wilshire #701 LA CA 90010 is taking orders as of 3/26/98 & credit card orders at (213)386-6102. It's all for a good cause & in honor of Carl Wilson.

Favorite duos include: Fogelberg/Weisburg, Loggins/Messina, England Dan/Jon Ford Coley, Simon/Garfunkle - Had their hit "Mrs. Robinson" running thru my head ALL DAY a few weeks back when Joe DiMaggio passed away -

Hourglass is a special album to me in that I had not bought an America album in quite a few years when I picked that one up. Sure felt good to be buying my guys' music again! Really love Hope and Mirror to Mirror.

I create my own cassette tapes to play in my car, and just about every one is "a song" then "America", "a song" then "America"! I just got my copy of Silent Letter on CD before I took off last weekend, delayed my departure until I could tape it & take it with me. Had forgotten how much I loved Tall Treasures!
Stay tuned -b

Seals and Crofts..(Summer Breeze album..vintage 1972..great stuff.) :)

ken andrews and greg edwards of failure. "Fantastic Planet" is one of my top 10 albums of all time. and speaking of good albums...
Switchfoot "New Way to be Human" out tommorrow. there will be a quiz. you guys owe it to yourselves.

mB
BluLight Studios

Loggins & Messina were a favorite of mine in the 70s.

oh ya, forgot about the wilson sister's of Heart.

can we consider alan parson and eric woolfson of alan parsons project a duo? great musical talent. tears for fears and wang chung also favorites. Let's not forget.... America was a trio before they were a duo.

Haven't been able to post much lately (not that I ever do, but...)
Hourglass: still one of my favorites. Isn't a weak cut on the album
Hall of fame: America is a natural for this. Any lobbying this folder can do on their behalf?

Duos: the 3 listed (Hall and Oates, Steely Dan and England Dan and JFC) are way up there in my books. I'd add Juluka to the list. They are a group from South Africa, primarily made up of Johnny Clegg and Sipho Mchundu(I don't think that is how one spells his last name). Johnny Clegg had a band that people may know better, Savuka (Scatterlings from Africa was in the movie Rainman and Dela was in the movie George of the Jungle). He and Sipho have recently reunited after Sipho left Juluka mid 80s to look after his family's farm. Great rhythms, melodies and intellectual lyrics.

I agree w/you guys on HOURGLASS. It is a super effort w/tremendous songs throughout. I wish Oxygen would obtain the rights & re-release it or re-package/re-market it. It is a treasure trove of songs that deserve much more attention. YOUNG MOON, SLEEPER TRAIN, MIRROR TO MIRROR, CLOSE TO THE WIND, WHOLE WIDE WORLD etc. Tremendous !!!

Virginia, I went back and viewed the picture again. I was serious about not recognizing that person. From your message, I just now have realized that it's not a woman but it's DAN PEEK!! Am I the only goofy one? No wonder that person looked so familiar to me. I have to go feed my guide dog now.

Regarding the America/Hope/Wayne photo: Johnny, surely you jest!

To my "Duos" list of Steely Dan and Hall & Oates, I forgot to list England Dan & John Ford Coley. Who is the lady in the Bob Hope & John Wayne photo with Dewey? She looks familiar. An actress, maybe?
It sure would be cool to own one of those varsity jackets! Wouldn't it also be cool if Dewey and Gerry put up a personal item for a drawing among fans here. Perhaps the sweater that Gerry wore during the "Hideaway" photo shoot or Dewey's belt and buckle from the same.

Yup, on the Hall & Oates. Abandoned Luncheonette is one of my FAVORITE albums of ALL time! Steely Dan is a big Yup too.....Honestly the other duos that come to mind (other than the Carpenters which I loved) are a big zero. Take, for instance, Captain and Toenail, Brewer and Shipley and Air Supply......Ah taste. To Each His Own, right Maggie? (C:

Embedded the "Hall's" web site is a folder-string you can post a message to. I guess the "Hall's" p.r. figured it would ease some of the "why isn't MY group here"'s that inevitably go around. There is an America String. The last time I looked (mid February) only 4 posts.....
I personally feel the "Hall's" politics are too restrictive. There are groups that deserve to be there who aren't and groups who really needed to do more that ARE in......So, maybe we'll see in the future. Heck they have to have people to elect In........I just hope it's fairly soon! (C:

Michelle go to home page and you will see categories and you will see movies books and misic ,hit that and you will come to many areas that you can search.then ener the bands name on the right hand side and you could hit all descriptions and the band that you are looking for will come up with all of the item thatare for sale.or you could hit cd and albums and you will get the same result,you will get the hang of it when you get used to it.

know how u feel jim. "greenhouse"- crank it up. another pick-me-up tune, "hang over", by dewey off the alibi album. need it on monday morning to get me going.

SOmetimes when I leave work for the day, I have my "Hourglass triple play"..."Greenhouse" (my "get me the hell outta here thank God this day is over" rocker) "Ports of Call" (a soother after "Greenhouse") and "Everyone I Meet...". Very therapeutic!

Jim...Erie, Pa

three very good picks Erin. i like hope and think that it's one of gerry's best songs that he has ever written. i guess your like me. America cd's in the car to work, listening to them at work, and listening to them at home. is this a sickness or what? forget about FM radio. it's America almost 24 hours a day. wonder if other fans out there do the same thing as me.

I LOVE Hourglass...especially Garden Of Peace, Hope, Ports-Of-Call, and Whole Wide World. I listen to it almost every day.
Erin :o)

A while back, Jim asked if anyone knew of any local radio stations that tried to give away a horse back when "Horse" was so popular. I recall a contest on a local radio station in Sacramento. The contest involved trying to guess the horse's name. If you could name it, then the horse was yours. The name of the horse turned out to be "Anonymous Equine" and a girl from my jr. high won it. Anyway, Jim's question brought that memory back from so many years ago.

I'm another one of those who enjoys reading all your posts, but seldom posts anything. Thanks to all of you for your insights, comments, reviews and memories. I never knew there were so many faithful fans out there until finding Rick's America Homepage and this one of Steve's. America will always be NUMBER ONE on my list. Blessings to you all.

Connie

Beth, thanks for posting that messge from Rick. I think it says a lot about the great person that he is and the support he continues to have for America.

doesn't any one still care about this cd? or did somehow it got lost in the shuffle somewhere.

Hello, All. Hope you had a great weekend! I arrived home at 9pm this evening and found 15 emails waiting for me! Among them, this:

Dear Beth (and our many online friends)

Thank you so much for your kind words about the America pages. They are truly appreciated and I've forwarded them on to Ike. (and I shared them with my wife, Mary)

Working on the America pages these past five years was exciting, thrilling, and rewarding, because there were so many positive accomplishments for America and their fans. We had a chance to make a difference, and are very grateful for this opportunity to say thanks to America for all they've done. And.......it was also a great source of fun...as many people who got to know us could see!

It was especially great to hear that America is now planning to create
their very own website to sell CDs, merchandise, and distribute news. In fact, when Ike and I first began our sites, Gallin Morey had planned to build an America site......so we originally thought we would just be short timers at best, but at least get everything started. Although the Gallin Morey site didn't develop, an official website apparently is now in the works, and is a wonderful idea and will be very popular.....and will receive our full support.

The key thing is we were allowed to make a difference for America, and
Gerry and Dewey were always very appreciative and supportive. We were also pleased to see other pages go online, and tried our best to encourage them any way we could......all in what we considered the best interest of America. We wish them our very best.

The one thing we realized is that Gerry and Dewey had plenty of room in their hearts for more friends and fans, and respected and treasured them all. There was never any reason for anything less than a spirit of co-operation.....and we kept it that way.

I am dismayed to hear of some of the bickering online recently, because it just isn't necessary and is counterproductive. America is what matters, and everything else is secondary.

Mary and I (and Ike too of course) will always remain completely in support of America, even though the time for our home pages is over. We have become close friends with Gerry and Dewey....and all the guys in the process, and this will never change.

We are very pleased we were able to say "thanks" to America when they
needed our help.......and are looking forward to many more years of great music by America. They will always remain #1 in our hearts.

All the best,

Rick Wahlgren
wahlgren@pacificrim.net

PS: Beth, feel free to post this message. Hopefully it will help to clear up some of the recent issues.

So, there you have it, folks!
Stay Tuned -b

Hello all,a truly memorable moment in being an America fan was to share the release and all the information surrounding Human Nature with fans from around the globe.Especially with only three cd's of new material in nearly ten years,well it's wonderful to share the ongoing work of Houses in White,only a small snippet to start with but the tune starts out almost menacingly with an acoustic guitar tucked in the background and some great lyrics, just as the file ends you could imagine the song continuing with a catchy chorus.I look forward to hearing more of this tune,thankyou to all concerned for making this available to the fans.On an entirely different note how are sales in Europe in particular Spain,is all this airplay helping our chaps shift more units?

I've cruised through e-bay looking for America items, but have never found anything. What category do you find things under?
Michelle

The following message was on the AOL chat folder. I'm posting it here for all of you that aren't AOL subscribers.

Subject: Lowell Concert
Date: 3/21/1999 1:06 AM Mountain Standard Time
From: JBBJR

Haven't been here in a while so I didn't know America was coming to my area until I saw a article in last night in a Boston paper. The wife and kid were away, so I decided to go and I got a ticket in the forth row. Lowell Auditorium is a wonderful old-fashion, but updated. hall to hear music. Lowell is one of those liveable old New England mill towns that I'm glad America comes to instead of Boston.

Cristopher Cross opened and he was wonderful. I had only heard his singles and I was impressed with his song-writing, guitar-playing, the sweetest high voice I've heard since Carl Wilson, and two impressve choices in female bandmates. (See his website if you want the details.)

I first heard about America in 1974 or 75, my freshman or sophomore year in college. A floormate complained that he bought their first album, but it didn't contain the song he heard on the radio, "A Horse With No Name." I'm sure you fans know that it was added to later pressings of that first album and I'm sure that the albums without it are a collector's album, but I doubt this guy kept it (I bought an Rascals album with his name tag in the college store - he didn't have lasting taste.)

If you want the truth, I thought at the time that "A Horse with No Name " was a commercial attempt to imitate Neil Young. Why, I don't know. But I didn't pay much attention to them until around 1993 or so (I forget the exact year)when they opened for the Beach Boys at Great Woods. They were incredible! I've bought their two albums that came out since, and am starting to collect their back catalog. These guys are really under-appreciated.

Their Lowell performance was great. Three songs from Human Nature (Moving Train, Wheels Are Turning, Moment to Moment), their big hits, and a great rendition of California Dreaming. Two songs I didn't recognize, (one with a lot of upbeat Beatlish guiter- anyone know the song?)probably from their as yet unexplored-by-me middle period.

I even grabbed one of Gerry's picks when he flung it out to the audience!

These guys deserve more respect than as an oldies band! Their acoustic playing should get more respect on the folk circuit. Their arrangements should get more respect on the pop circuit!

I love these guys. I wish they had a stock because I'm willing to bet their stock will rise again!! ( Gerry announced that they had just learned that "Moving Train" was #1 in Spain. "We're back!" he joked.

when hall and oates were hot they put out some really good music. i think their music got stale with their last few cd's. how about least favorite duo group: donnie and marie, captain and tony tennile. the carpenters may be included in this group.

AMERICA is my favorite duo group, of course. Actually favorite group period. I was wondering what other duo groups you all enjoy. How about listing your favorites as one of the next topics? Two duos that come to mind quickly for me are Steely Dan (Donald Fagen and Walter Becker) and Hall & Oates.

these guys should definitely be inducted into the rock n roll hall of fame. i still enjoy listening to their first album as much as i do listening to human nature. How many bands that you listened to in the 70's or 80's are still cranking out great songs? not many. The problem is that if your not a die hard America fan, you probably don't realize they are still together and these guy's are still making great music. let's hope they get their moment in the sun and get inducted soon.

Ron, that picture, among many others of a variety of musicians, is also on Henry Diltz's page:

http://server2.powernet.net/~peterb/

In Msg# 5752, Ron B mentions an interesting picture of America (and I mean interesting!). After I visited Graham Nash's site, I surfed his links and found the Dewey manuscript of HORSE, part of a series of limited edition manuscripts re-handwritten and autographed by various musicians featuring a prominent song. I sent the link to Steve L so he could make it easier for all to see the manuscript quickly. What Steve posted in Msg# 5756 is actually the manuscript, not the picture Ron was talking about. I apologize for the misunderstanding and possibly confusing Steve (if that's possible).

Here's the link to what Ron was referring (THANKS RON!):

http://www.nashnet.com/f1.html

P.S. Waiting to hear from Brandon...You owe us a review...Don't be shy

Thanks Steve, for the Wave file!--Gerry, VERY pretty song!!-JOYCE-:)

Steve, thanks for taking the time to convert this song to a WAV file so the rest of us could hear it. It's really a nice song, vintage Gerry Beckley. Looks like they already have the ablum cover done.

Also, thanks for the link to the Graham Nash picture. That is a really wonderful image.

KevinS.

does anyone agree that these guys should be looked at as contenders for the rock & roll hall of fame? considering that they have been going strong for 30 years now.I say they should be what do you guys think?

looking for some good America sheet music, albums,photos & other goodies of the worlds greatest band? then visit ebay.com.You will find all sorts of things from the band.I have got a bunch of stuff at great prices from this auction site. Happy shopping

You would think that at their age, Gerry and Dewey would be slowing down. How many bands would have a tour schedule like they have. America is like a fine wine, they just get better with age!!!!! or they are just like the energize bunny, they keep going and going and going and going. Still would like 2 c a live cd out after the tour is over, but i don't no if i can wait that long.

It wasn't long enough so I had to play it over and over..love it!

Sure hope we hear some reports re: the current leg of AMERICA's lifetime tour.
HUMAN NATURE is AMERICA's latest & greatest release.

america's da bomb!and will always be da bomb!

I like it.

Shayne

I love it when you save us time Steve....again thanks !!

Thanks for helping out with the Wave File Steve.....appriciated the opportunity to hear a sound bite of "Houses In White".

Ron, thanks for sharing that interesting picture with us. I'll save the rest of you some searching by putting a link here directly to the picture. You really will find it interesting.

http://www.oursong.com/Images/horse.gif

Incredible vocals again by Gerry. The steady rhythm,on acoustic, accompanied by Gerry's melodic voice is pure,clean and hypnotic. Takes me back to the days of "Clarice". Absolutely looking forward to hearing more of this work in progress. Thank you for sharing "House's in White" with us. The internet is a beautiful thing.

I really like "Houses In White"! I've always liked the conga/bongo sound and in "Houses", they're wonderful. I think if he wanted to, Gerry could sing about a garbage can and it would still come out sounding great. I'm so happy that Gerry has allowed us a glimpse into his songwriting process. Gerry, we want more, we want more, we want more! Can't wait for the second half of the song.

Thanks Jim,

I agree about MP3. It's smooth as silk audio. I have a shortcut to maybe the best if not only MP3 player for Mac. I also went to the page Jim mentions, and almost missed the tiny Mac Users link. It is a direct download from MacAMP, the maker of MP3 players for Mac, and they have a free Beta version. All the "kids" use MP3, judging from my kids. If you want to go directly to the MacAMP site: http://www.macamp.com/

After MacAMP is installed, save the song source file on your desktop first, then open the file using the player. Good Quality (and a good song).

For a very interesting picture of America, check out Graham Nash's website and go to nashnet friends. I won't tell you all about it but it's really a neat picture. Check it out!

http://www.mp3.com

Here is the address if you wish to download an MP3 player. The player includes a conversion module for MP3 to WAV & vice versa. MP3 is becoming the compression method of choice for music over the internet. Those generation X'ers are very bright & they seem to be driving this technology. MP3 files are slim compared to WAV's.
HOUSES IN WHITE as performed by GERRY BECKLEY is magnificent. Great work GERRY & GORDON !

Hey Johnny!
I find albums once in a while. Actually picked up Holiday at a library sale about a month ago - 25 cents - I already have it on vinyl, so I gave it to my 8 yr old boy for his "record collection". It may end up scratched, but he listens to it constantly. He's fascinated with Tin Man, and sings along with Baby It's Up to You.
I like to think the previous owner replaced it with a CD.
Michelle

Every Saturday morning, I go to what we call garage sales here. They may be called tag sales or yard sales where you live. For the past 3 years, I've gone to an average of 15-30 each Saturday. Never, never have I found an AMERICA album, cassette, or CD for sale. I like to think that the sellers choose not to part with their AMERICA music because they're too good to let go!

Got my first listen (thank GOD for .wav files). I liked it. Although I LOVED VGG, this seems a little more "polished". Can't wait to hear the rest of the house..... Łq@k

To Gerry- We are Not worthy!!! How do you do it, You keep getting better and better! The song is haunting, the lyrics are profound and the melody is a classic. What I appreciate from the "Sound Byte" that you've shared with us is that the quality of your voice, even to fans like us, has developed into a tremendous instrument. All in all, the lyrics and the melody really suit your vocal perfectly. To Bobby Woods- I can't wait to hear more!!! Where did this song come from? To anyone here who hasn't taken the time to listen to it, do yourselves a favor- make time to listen! It's worth it!!! Thanks for letting us in on this remarkable creative process. Tom T.

I like Houses in White A LOT!!!! very cool ...when can we buy it?

No doubt all the Warners material has not been released domestically, that is a shame. All the Warners material had been released in Japan & the disks were available as imports for a fairly steep price if your retailer could order imports. I am not sure if they are still available. Luckily the Capitol material was 1st available as a French import on CD & of course later domestically via One Way Records, also some of it via Australia. Some years ago I managed to replace every AMERICA LP w/CD's, at a hefty amount of money - but all worth it, for sure. HUMNAN NATURE is AMERICA's latest & greatest.

For those of you who have always enjoyed Carl's magnificent voice, here is your chance to own a rare, special promotional Carl Wilson CD.....Long Promised Road. The CD, which contains 19 songs, features cuts from Carl's solo albums as well as some of his work with the Beach Boys. 1500 copies of the CD will be available 3/29/99 thru the American Cancer Society. The CD is costly, but at the same time you'll be making a highly valuable contribution to the American Cancer Society. Visit the following website for more info:

http://www2.cancer.org/state/ca/regions/la/promo2.html

The Chat Folder will soon be switching to a new version of the software and you can start trying the Beta version right away. The new version has two major advantages: simplicity and security. It is simple to use because you won't need to type in your name and e-mail address every time you want to post something. Those of you who are using newer browsers (AOL 4, Netscape 4, or Internet Explorer 4) will only have to type in your user ID once and the browser will remember it the next time you want to post something. From then on, all you'll need to enter is your password (your user name and e-mail address will automatically be filled in). Those of you who prefer to keep your e-mail address private, can check a special box when you register to omit your address from your messages. By requiring a password, it also makes the chat folder more secure. Unfortunately, we have had people in the past use someone else's name and e-mail address when posting what I term "hostile messages". Since a password is required before posting a message, that should take care of this problem.

As intimated above, you'll need to register before you can post anything. Registration is simple (and it's FREE!!). Just go to the Registration Screen and enter your User ID, your name (or alias), your e-mail address, and whether or not you want your e-mail address included with your messages. That's all there is to it. A special password will be e-mailed to you and you'll be able to start creating messages. By the way, you can change your password or other user options at any time by going to a special Registration Update screen.

A handful of Beta testers have been using this software this past week and have uncovered a few bugs which I have fixed. I feel like it is now ready to roll out to anyone else who wants to try it. If you begin using it now, you'll be able to continue posting when the new software becomes mandatory without having to register again. Everyone else, will have to register at that time before they can post.

I've been using the software for a week now and I'm excited at the simplicity and security that it provides. I simply type in my password, the subject, and the message and my post is created. It doesn't get much easier than that.

Here's a link to the Beta version of the new software. Why not add it to your "bookmarks" or your "favorites" and then give it a spin?

Thanks for your help and support.

Thanks to the ten people who participated!
Hearts received the most thumbs-up...8
Homecoming...7
Holiday, America, & Hattrick...6
Harbour...4
Silent Letter & Hideaway...3
Live...2
Perspective, Human Nature, Encore, Hourglass, Alibi...1

(Johnny & Eddy thought they got to vote for SIX, so Alibi & View from the Ground lost counts there.)
A couple of people simply said "the first five" - a good choice any day!!!
Enjoy!
Michelle

Great work Steve ! Thanks. I hope everyone can hear this work-in-progress by GERRY. Great file squeezing job & conversion to the .wav file. This is definitely a 1st for us all & really reminds us all how busy GERRY really is. His is always working at his craft. HUMAN NATURE is AMERICA's latest.

Hello all,I just wanted to hark back to what I mentioned a few months ago,was that America with European touring have a chance to attain real success.After hearing some wonderful news from Karen concerning Spanish radio plays for our heroes,this could be a domino effect in reverse with many Europeans travelling to and fro,in the north France to the south Portugal.Even many people living in one country but working in another on a daily basis.What are the chances of America making the most of this opportunity.

The Houses In White web page has been updated to include a link to a WAVE file of the song. Now all of you should be able to hear it. Although the WAVE file doesn't sound quite as good as the Real Audio or MP3 files, it still sounds pretty good. It should be good enough to allow all of you to listen to what this wonderful, new song sounds like. Be aware, however, that the WAVE file is almost 2 megabytes so it will take some time to download if you're connected via modem (5 minutes or more on a 33.6 modem). Enjoy!

Welcome IndigoGlo. What a great screen name! Howard's post (#5682) indicates that the tickets for Vet Rock 99 are $30. You can go to www.vetrock.com to read all about it.

Welcome, Indi!

Thanks for the clarification on the (cool) Email name. I was starting to wonder, if you know what I mean. Funny how a slight typo can make such a difference!

Can't help you on your inquiry but am sure someone will. Gotta get that video, too... soon!

terry

I made a mistake on my previous message
My correct e-mail is Indigoglo1@aol.com

I have been an America fan since 1976 and have followed them ever since. I have met Gerry and Dewey and the guys many times. They are so accomidating every time I meet them. They are the BEST.I live in New Jersey and I will go almost anywhere in my area to see them. I am interested if anyone has any info on the Vetrock 99 concert scheduled for May 15 in Willow Grove,PA. Let me know if anyone has any info. Also, I recently purchased the Musicladen video and it is just OUTSTANDING. I would be interested if anyone has some old videos of America. Well,everybody, keep up the good work on the internet. I enjoy reading about my favorite group

C YA

"Mr. Businessman" was a hit for Ray (Gitarzan/Everything Is Beautiful/The Streak...)Stevens. Thanx for your research Tx2! The other TeeTee Thanks You!

Hey TerryT

You know what Twain said about golf, dontcha?

"Golf is a good walk...spoiled"

Little darling...It's been a long cold lonely winter...

Patti, could Mrs. Rose have to do with that famous garden behind a famous white house?

Mr. T, I was thinking about "Brandy, you're a fine girl", too!. I just researched and yup, yer right. The Allmans first called themselves the House Rockers, then the Allman Joys. They cut their first single on the Dial label for Buddy Killen who told them that they were "never gonna make it", and "the worst I ever heard". They became Hourglass in the second part of the sixties and cut two albums on the Liberty label, but lacked control of the material and were dissatisfied with the outcome. Then enter Rick Hall of Fame Studios, who convinced Duane to visit Muscle Shoals, Alabama, where Duane got a lot of studio work with some known performers. Duane finally moved there, did more studio work, then formed his own group. He hitched with manager Phil Walden, and after getting a contract, the Capricorn label, distributed by legendary Atlantic Records, released The Allman Brothers Band album.

Guru, the lyrics remind me of that song from the sixties that goes, "Get back to business, Mr. Businessman, what's your plan?". As with Virginia, "They're everywhere, they're everywhere!". My favorite part:
...as time goes by, my dreams have become
that which is atainable, NOT WHAT I'M LOOKING FOR!!!....
Well, gotta clean off my golf clubs for tomorrow. (soul in one) ;)

Here comes the sun, and I say, "It's all_right..."

Houses in White is fantastic. GERRY'S soothing voice & smooth acoustic guitar all add up to a very nice song. The intro sounds are so creative, that's GERRY's innovative, but never overdone, use of new techologies to get just the sound & feeling communicated. Can't wait to hear the final on this one. This song is a definite winner.

Yet another soothing, flowing, can't-get-it-out-of-my-head, thoughtful
tune with chords that melt my heart. Thanks for letting us hear
the clip!

Steve: I'd really appreciate it if you would translate "Houses In White" to a WAV file. Even if the sound isn't as good, it doesn't really matter because the speaker on my computer isn't all that wonderful. I know it's a time consuming process for you, so if you don't get to it right away, I understand. Thanks in advance.

KevinS.

I received the following mail message today from a fairly new fan. I think it's worth sharing.

"Went to see Leon Russell at the Pensacola Spring Music Fest in 1997. When Leon was done,I started to leave. A friend begged me to stay and listen to America. I said I can't stand America. I stayed anyhow. They came on and blew me a way. Just one of the best shows I've ever seen. They were great. I've never been so wrong about a group before. They drew a huge crowd in Pensacola. I sure wish they would come back. Nice Taylor guitars they were playing. I'll never miss a show again. Please come back around the Gulf Coast!!"

Thanks - I thought I had the latest version of Real Audio, but maybe not. I'll try again...

I can't believe it!!! I stumped everybody! The Group Looking Glass (ie: Lookinglass) recorded "Brandy". The group that originally was called Hour Glass was none other than The Allman Brothers!!!! In fact,They re-released the Debut Hour Glass LP after the Allman Brothers got successful. I may be mistaken, but I think they actually had Two LP's out as Hour Glass prior to changing their band name to The Allman Brothers. Yippee! That's what I like on this Chat Folder- GOOD CLEAN FUN! Have a Nice Weekend! TeeTee

I wish I wrote that song, but I definitely know what he's referring to. Everybody go at and get the switchfoot CD on Tuesday. it will make you happy. you can tell all your friends months from now you got it first. "NEW WAY TO BE HUMAN" it is called. it will make you popular. I'm being totally serious about this. I rarely gush about bands. these guys are great though. Official Record release show at the Del Mar Fairgrounds Tuesday Night. I'll be there. The Gurus will too. Tickets through ticketmaster.

ALSO: BluLight Studio shirts are in the design phase right now.
There isn't an official OTHER show right now. but there has been talk.
maybe beginning of April. just clearing the fog.

mB
BluLight Studios

"Hey I'm somthing, Now check me out!"The Guru--YES YOU ARE!!--Joyce-

The Silver/America Tour was in 1976. Couldn't be.

I thought the mystery drummer was identified a short while back. I thought someone said it was H. Stinson formerly of the group, Silver, who was a co-member with John Batdorf who wrote "You Could've Been The One". No???

So, that IS acoke bottle the Dewey has, THought so.

Re the mystery Drummer. Let me see what I can find on Dave Atwood, Howard mentioned him as a possible for the Mystery Drummer.

I have listen to the song many times,Gerry your voice never sounded better.Houses in White I heard the words scandal,lies,it leads me to think of the president,did anyone else feel that way?I love the way song writers get you to think of different meanings.Looking forward to the finished song.Have a good weekend,Joanne

Lyrics: I was thinking about putting the lyrics out on the web site but I really don't have the time right now. Anyone who can download the MP3 file has everything that I have so maybe they can figure out the lyrics and post them here.

Real Audio 23 Error: I believe this error means that you don't have the latest version of the Real Audio software. You have to have the most recent player which can be downloaded for free from the Real Audio web site. The reason I like Real Audio is because the files are much smaller so they download quicker and the quality is almost as good as the MP3 files. I'll try to put a WAV file out this weekend (time permitting) which will be huge and low quality, but it should allow everyone who can't get the Real Audio or MP3 files to work to at least listen to the song.

What is "Houses In White": All I know about the song is what I've written on the Houses In White web page. The sound clip was sent to me by Gordon who is the technical person behind the song's production. He didn't say anything about a new album. Perhaps he will answer your questions about it here on the chat folder.

There, I hope that answers most of the questions. Enjoy!

Just went and listened to the clip of Houses in White. Pure Gerry. Anxious to hear more.
Steve, I'm still not clear. Is this a new solo album? I hope so!!!
Guru - clarify, please. A new song? Could we hear it and not just see it? Lots of people on this folder want to hear you. ( know that by the response I got when I said I had your cd!)
If you haven't listened to Houses in White yet, go do it now!
ShariL <><

Wayne:

Gerry and Dewey are always very gracious about making a post-show appearance, meeting fans and signing autographs. Hopefully after 27 years you'll get the chance. Your entire family will have a splendid time!

Mags

HELP! When I try to play the Real Audio file, I get an error message (error 23). I went to the Real Audio site and read the info on error 23, but can't figure out how to solve the problem. I'm using a Mac. Does anyone know how to fix it?

Goofy me! I changed Gerry's song title. Sorry!

Howard, you're correct. I didn't know that Gerry had mentioned in their concerts about the two different CD's. That made my question too simple, didn't it?

As mentioned before, Gerry at times uses the words, "middle" and "game" in his songs. So in "White Houses" will there be the phrase, "in the middle of the street"?

Answer is James Taylor...Even in a concert, Gerry mentioned to
the crowd that their CD Hourglass...not to be confused with JT's.hl

I don't know the answer to Tom T's trivia question but the song, "Brandy" comes to mind for some unknown reason.

To add to Tom's question, what famous solo musician also has a CD called, "Hourglass"? AMERICA's "Hourglass" was released first, however.

TerryT's report of the pepper eating contest between Dan, Dewey, and Gerry is indeed accurate. The event actually happened right before the finger-piercing blood pact. Reportedly, the peppers were eaten for their anesthetic effect. Anyone who has eaten jalapeno peppers knows this to be true. If enough are eaten, the sense of touch can be lost; therefore, there is no pain. Thanks go to Terry for mentioning this event. It had totally slipped my mind.

Oops...forgot something. I'm taking my wife, my 18 year old daughter, my 12 year old daugther and 10 year old son to the Wichita concert. They are all fans. What can I say? The music is timeless...

Hey.....that's very cool stuff. I have one suggestion....add my voice as a background vocal, ha ha. Seriously, Gerry never ceases to amaze me with his talent. Thanks guys... Hey, I would love to meet Gerry and Dewey (and the other guys) when they come to Wichita. Like I said before, I've never had the pleasure and have been a fan for 27 years. Any suggestions??

After my 17 year old computer expert (and resident redhead) tweeked something I could hear the clip. I'm looking forward to hearing the progress of this song-I REALLY liked what I heard. Any chance of posting the lyrics? I had trouble making out all the words. Thanks Gordon and Gerry for doing this for us fans.

I see this guy every day on the freeway on my way to work. In fact, I see lots of these guys. Silicon Valley is crawling with them. Sad.

Kevin, I wish I could help you with the MP3 file but I don't have an MP3 player. The MP3 file that I put out there is the one that Gordon sent me. I believe it's a good file because I found an MP3 decoder which allowed me to make the Real Audio file from the MP3 file. The decoder also created a 15 megabyte WAV file but that's way too big to put out on the web site. Perhaps I could convert the WAV file from Stereo to Mono and decrease the sample rate to get it down to a megabyte or so. Then you could download the WAV file and listen to it (but it won't sound anywhere near as good as the MP3 or Real Audio files). Let me know if you want me to do that and I'll try to find some time this weekend to make the conversion.

I don't know who the mystery drummer is. That's why I asked the question. Some of you have come up with some good leads, but I'm hoping we'll find an authoritative response that will give a name to that poor soul.

In case some of you are wondering what we're talking about. George sent me some photos from a 1974 concert in New York. I don't think the drummer in these photos is Willie even though he joined the band in 1974 during the recording of Holiday. So I'm just wondering, who is this mystery drummer. Does anyone know for sure?

"Hey Mike
was right
when he said I'd put up a fight
to be someone, a fight to be me
but see now
I'm down
under the pavement
of capital hills, and lowercase people
as time goes by, my dreams have become
that which is atainable, NOT WHAT I'M LOOKING FOR!!!

I've got the Company Car
I'm the one seinging two below par
and I've become one with the ones that I've never believed in
but I've got the company car...

hey! I'm the king
of things
I've always despised
I'm the gingerbread man who got eaten alive
I'm half baked
I'm fake
you see I got hotels on park place and boardwalk
and 200 buck
but that's gold
and OH! LIfes taking it's toll
have I won monopoly to forfiet my soul?! but SEE

I've got the Company Car
I'm the one seinging two below par
and I've become one with the ones that I've never believed in
but I've got the company car...

and all the kings horses at the foot of the wall
they're taking pictures of the man whose lost all
of his masks of pretensions
he's got two faces left
his is the one that he hides...
on the left,
behind that smile

idle tears
fears
that burn like an engine
and drive him away from the ones that he loves
Mike Was RIGHT!
HEY MIKE!
we're one and the same
we're the faceless combatants in the lonliest game
so I'll sit and wave
as I'm driving by
with that smirk in my eye
yelling 'HEY I'M SOMETHING NOW CHECK ME OUT!!!!'

I've got the Company Car
I'm the one seinging two below par
and I've become one with the ones that I've never believed in
but I've got the company car...
YEAH I'VE GOT THE COMPANY CAR!"

tuesday. good for the soul

the Guru

I don't know about anyone else, but I can't hear this song. The MP3 format comes up but without sound. Anyone else having this problem? And I've tried to load Real Player onto my system but I'm an idiot and can't figure out why it's not working. Maybe someday.

It looks to me like this song is far enough along to have designed a cover. Is that the cover of a new single release? Is it the cover of a new CD? Or was somebody just bored and desgined some sort of GERRY BECKLEY HOUSES IN WHITE artwork for the hell of it?

KevinS.

Howard, I'm sorry! I know what that's like, my son had a bad ear infection last week. Those are the worst! Hope your boy is okay. (Secretly, we all made a pact to hassle you about your abrupt departure!)
Stay Tuned
-b

Sorry I didn't get to participate in the "Best of Best" Had guests in town and had 4 days worth of catch up reading today.

Ummm...Beth...I didn't fall asleep...my son got up crying!hl

Tom, I, for one, didn't overlook it! Just have no clue! Will take a guess - White Snake?!
Stay Tuned
-b

Just came in from the Live Chat. I want you all to know, Howard actually fell asleep during this one! :-> I didn't think talking about my horse was that boring!?!
Stay tuned
--b

Hello! Either I stumped everyone, or nobody saw my last Triv Q.OK here it goes again....What band was called Hourglass before they changed their name only to go on to mega-touring and recording success? I thought it was a relevant question that followed Johnny's Holiday/ Bee Gees Triv Q....See Ya TeeTee

Come to think of it. At a concert in Toronto, they introduced
Dave Atwood as a drummer when they toured in 1973. Does that help?
hl

So, Wednesday Morning was released by a different label in Spain and is moving up the charts there, while here in the U.S. America's record label stands pat. Good strategy.

KevinS.

This is the evening Brandon Rose has been patiently but enthusiastically awaiting for what has seemed like forever. There should be no bad news for Mrs. Rose tonight, and definitely more than THREE ROSES at the Performing Arts Center in Fort Myers, FL! Ride Like The Wind, Brandon and family! Waiting to hear about it.

Was Dewey married at the time of the first album? Johnny, it's also interesting how on the backside photo of that first album, Dewey's and Gerry's mentioned fingers are almost touching on Dan's shoulder, while Dan folds his arms and has nothing to do with it. BUT...according to ancient legend, there was the pepper sacrament. It also cleansed the soul and created bonds, as with the sweat lodge. Get ready for the true story, as relayed to me by those oh-so-reliable anonymous sources:

The guys are having a jalapeno-eating contest and Dewey just popped the whole thing in his mouth and is holding only the stem. He is actually starting to chew it at the moment, still smiling because the burn hasn't hit yet. It was his turn because he's got the "emergency" soda bottle that they share.
Gerry (thinking): You're crazy, man...better spit it out the other way, if ya have to.
Dan (exclaiming): Oh my Goddddd! I've never seen anyone eat a whole one of those!

Gonna go listen to HOUSES IN WHITE now...

I have been ( as noted) off line for a while. Did we ever get any sort of answer as to whom the mystery drummer is? ANyone know? My guess is someone with the Warner label who may have been a studio musician????

An open invitation to any who would like to gaze upon my family pictures...Brothers, Cabin, and all! My father (68 years old! First computer not a year ago!!) has put up a Web Page at http://home.att.net/~rfmercier/ WARNING! This page will take around 5 minutes to load!! Is full of family pics dating back to my great-grandfather at 13 years old. My dad was a pilot in the Coast Guard, my brothers had to move every 2 years, much like someone else we know!! There are also duck hunting pics - some not for the weak of heart -- Enjoy and
Stay tuned -b

DaveS - I was shopping at JC Penney in the mall Tuesday night last, and they were playing FAMT over their store pa speakers!
Stay Tuned! -b

While I was on the phone with the bank yesterday, they put me on hold and what did I hear but FAMT ! It was one time I was glad to be on hold. This was the first time I have heard it outside of my own CD. It's nice to know it's still out there.
Dave

Here are the voting results of "The Best of the Best". The song title is preceded by the number of votes received followed by the
fan(s) who voted for it.

(10) Don't Cross The River (Robyn, Janice, Ron B, Beech, Tom T, DiB, Erin, Beth, Maureen, TerryT)

(8) Lonely People (Patti, Laura, Howard, Joe K, Joe B, ToEaHisOwn, Gary H, KevinS)

(8) Today's The Day (Joanne, Mark, Monica, Gene, JL, Jim G, Michelle, Shayne)

(2) Woman Tonight (ShariL, Johnny)


(16) Ventura Highway (Joanne, Mark, Ron B, Gary H, Howard, KevinS, Joe K, Di B, JL, ShariL, Erin, ToEaHisOwn, Beth, Maureen,
Jim G, TerryT)

(6) Tin Man (Laura, Gene, Shayne, Tom T, Joe B, Johnny)

(5) Amber Cascades (Monica, Robyn, Beech, Michelle, Georgianna)

(2) A Horse With No Name (Patti, Janice)

(0) The Border


(12) Sister Golden Hair (Mark, Laura, Gene, Gary H, Ron B, Shayne, KevinS, Di B, Joe B, JL, Erin, Johnny)

(6) Daisy Jane (Jim G, Beth, ShariL, ToEaHisOwn, Tom T, Janice)

(3.5)Only In Your Heart (Joanne , Howard, Beech, Michelle)

(3) I Need You (Patti, Robyn, Maureen)

(1) You Can Do Magic (TerryT)

(.5) From A Moving Train (Joanne )

(0) Muskrat Love

Thank you so much for voting! I hope you enjoyed reading the results and seeing which fan likes which songs.

Now I understand the answer to the Rose question - Just downloaded the MP3 Houses in White file! Only 35 seconds came through for me -
I want More! Sounds Great!
Stay tuned -b

Jim:

Agreed! Take the fork out, cuz he ain't done yet...

Mag

VH1 was at their best when they did the storytellers with Hansen, ha...

Mark (the other mark from KC)

Let's pray for a GERRY BECKLEY solo number I I !!!!
It would make a very nice 2000 year release. He has so much more to say ..

Thanks, Howard, for digging up the information. It can be really hard to find at times.

After days of trying to find out about Vet Rock 99 in Willow Grove,
PA concert, here's the scoop:
Tickets are $30.00 and it's an all day concert fest.
starts 10A and goes to 6P. All kind of bands from 60's & 70's
and it's a benefit concert.
For further info, go to www.vetrock.Com
What a day that'll be...GROOVY MAN!!!hl

Sounds incredible!! Can't wait to hear the finished product!

Erin :o)

WOW! That sounds awesome!!
I love it!

Actually Johnny, it was Laura who started it with her comment. You just responded, which I was getting ready to do until I saw you had beat me to it.

Where do you get this stuff??? Fascinating. I always thought it was a coke bottle.

How many times have each of us marveled at how Gerry and Dewey have stuck it out as AMERICA through thick and thin, good times and bad. The answer can actually be found in the first album photo.

You see, what is actually taking place is something very serious. It is known as a blood pact. Gerry just lanced the middle finger of his right hand with a straight pin. He's holding his finger until Dewey is ready. Gerry has also handed the bottle of rubbing alcohol to Dewey so Dewey can swab the pin and his index finger before lancing it. If you look closely, you can see the straight pin that Dewey is holding between the thumb and middle finger of his right hand. All of this was so they could sign in blood a pact to carry on as AMERICA no matter what, be it good times or bad. Unfortunately, Dan gets weak at the knees at the sight of blood and doesn't participate. If you look at their picture on the back of the album cover, Dan is still uncomfortable at the thought of it all. On the front photo, you can see his reaction, "Ugggh, gross man!"

The night that Dan decided to call it quits, Gerry said to Dewey, "Remember the blood pact that we signed way back in '71? Well, I meant it, did you?" Dewey said, "Damn straight, brother!" So there, my friends and fellow fans, it's just "History" and you have the rest of the story!!!

Michelle is correct. Rose is about to hear "some bad news."

thanks, bud

Sorry, Laura. As they say, don't discuss sex, politics, or religion. And look what I did.

To quote Dewey " Always be friendly, never be unfriendly"

God vs Satan? Johnny, Johnny - can we not even go there? As the product of 12 yrs of Catholic schooling, I'm just no longer up for philosohical discussions. You'll just have to trust that I'm one of the friendlies, not the unfriendlies. OK?
please...

AN HOUR OF VANILLA ICE????? His career didn't last that long!!!!!!

Laura, it's Satan who has the sick, twisted sense of humor not God. God is for us; Satan is against us. As in DONKEY JAW, "Ah, get behind me Satan, quit ravishing the land."

Yeah, but Rhino is owned by WB. Oxygen benefits from any exposure wit the new stuff.

Bad News.

Sure do like what I've heard of "Houses in White". It's very thought-provoking, almost haunting.
Michelle

the whole concept of Vanilla Ice having an hour of precious air time given to him (& Leif Garrett & K.C. & the Sunshine Band, & Rick Springfield before him) - has at the very least solved a philosophical question that's been eating at me for years now .... yes, Laura, maybe there is a god after all - but he certainly has one sick, twisted sense of humour....

"legend" has it that "Pigeon Song" was edited down from its original twice-as-long version to the masterpiece that we have all come to love (& a few of you, merely tolerate). A long-lost friend & I had several additional couplets of our own a quarter century or so ago. BUT memories being what sieves they are, I can't quite recall......
HOWEVER, maybe you can. TerryT, Johnny, and ALL you other superior wits out there --- what other lines have you heard??????
I dare, double, no - TRIPLE DOG DARE ya to extend the song's lyrics to an alternative glory..... any takers?

have fun

Great idea. Ventura Highway has been included on several various artist compilations. But I doubt that Oxygen could get Rhino to include it since Ventura Highway was released by WB.

Hey... I hear Rhino records is putting another CD this summer in its "hard rock cafe" records theme - this one will be "rockin' down the highway" - if they have not made out the track list maybe someone (oxygen) could suggest the classic "ventura highway". A great fit! And great exposure for the band. It may be one there already? It is due in mid-June.

Sounds great. Does this mean Gerry has another project in the works or is he just creating on his own?

And I thought they had reached rock bottem when they did Lief Garrett. I think this shows how desparate they are becoming for material. Maybe, just maybe they will get around to doing America.

SOUNDS FANTASTIC!!!!

Tonight... Fort Myers, Florida... Christopher Cross & AMERICA. They'll be playing at the Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Center a fabulous place for a concert. It doesn't get any better than that. Great music and great times.

"Houses In White" sounds WONDERFUL...sounds like another winner. Can't wait for the finished product!

TerryT: I've changed it to "Ventura Highway" as requested.

Great stuff! Everyone please give this a listen!!! What a great opportunity to hear this WIP...thanks!

Mags

Mags

If you want to hear a fantastic new song featuring Gerry Beckley, go to the Houses In White web page and read all about it. Included are sound clips in MP3 and Real Audio formats. This is your chance to see behind the scenes of the production of a song and to voice your opinions and comments (right here on the chat folder) as the song progresses. Enjoy!

Jim, I share your state of aghast! UN believeable!!
Stay Tuned!-b

Tonight during the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Induction broadcast, VH1 ran a promo for an upcoming "Behind the Hits" special on VANILLA ICE!!!! COME ON...they can devote an hour to this pimple on the face of pop music...this pompadoured footnote to music...this all style and no substance hack but they can't (or won't) devote an hour to America???? I'm aghast!!!

Jim, Erie Pa

Hi David,
Time is growoing short, do you still want me tp pick you up a t-shirt? We am leaving Fri morning to attend the concert in RI on friday night. Please email me with your size and address. OK. Hope to hear from you soon. Maureen.

which rose?? there are 3 you know.

Tickets go on sale for the July 3rd show with Chuck Negron on April 10th. Call TicketMaster that day as tickets will fly. Two radio stations will be promoting the on-sale date pretty heavily. Email me for details.

Johnny, if it's not too late, I AM gonna renege. Change TIN MAN to VENTURA HIGHWAY. I didn't learn each guitar part, bass line, drum pattern, vocal lead, harmony backup and doo-doo/dit-dits on that song, and try to record it at home all by myself, when no other song could make me feel better at a time when I need to feel better, for NOTHING! Their genius (ALL of them) is only more appreciated, as songwriters and performers, when you try to do it yourself. Whoa.
What was I thinking?

D. Guru, you sound like the same Soul to me. Occasionally some more earthly aspects manifest in your recent posts, but though often imitated, you're never duplicated. Doubt may have arisen due to the change in address and title modification(s). Who the heck is Rose? I only know three of them.

Hey, I never seem to get a chance to answer the Trivia Q's before anyone else. Good question! Now I have one for you too................There was a band named HourGlass, What did they change their name to prior to becoming successful?

the trivia question should be, "What is Rose about to hear?"

Right on, Virginia!!

Federico,

In answering your question, from May 16 to June 30, America will largely be performing in the eastern and midwestern portion of the United States. The closest that America will be are:

1057 km (657 miles) away in Park City, Utah on June 9
1210 km (752 miles) away in Las Vegas, Nevada on June 8

Hope this helps!!

john

Hallo,
here I am again!!!!
I need an help: who might tell me which is the city closest to Portland among 16 of May and 30 of June in which America will have a live concert?
ThanX

Federico

Hi Johnny,
Is it The BeeGees-Holiday?

Hi Johnny
Here are my choices:
Dan:Todays the day
Dewey:Ventura Highway
Gerry:"Its a tie"only in your heart/From a moving train,if the grammys can have a tie why can't "America" fans.
Take care Joanne

There is a very famous musical trio who has a hit song from the past and that song has the same name as one of AMERICA's album titles. So, can you name this trio and their hit song?

Dan - Lonely People
Dewey - Horse with no Name
Gerry - I Need You

Georgianna and Monica, thanks for playing "Best of the Best". The song selections are only from the following AMERICA songs:

Dan...Don't Cross The River, Lonely People, Today's The Day, Lonely People

Dewey...A Horse With No Name, Ventura Highway, Tin Man, Amber Cascades, The Border

Gerry...I Need You, Only In Your Heart, Muskrat Love, Sister Golden Hair, Daisy Jane, You Can Do Magic, From A Moving Train

So please try again if you're still interested. We have nearly 20 fans who have responded. I'll be posting the results soon. Thanks

Monica:

Hey...where do you hail from? I grew up in Mtn. View and hung out in Saratoga lots. Prior to mentions of Jeff Larson on this site, I believe I had also heard his work before. You are so right...he is a very gifted artist!

Mags

Hey You People,

FYI - Kyle Vincent's new CD is coming out (including Gerry on backing vocals) For info go to http://members.aol.com/kvincentfc

I'd set up a link but don't know how. Help, anyone?

Peace
Joe B

P.S. 'Survival' hit #1 in Italy and was never even released here. I still think Capitol screwed up big time. On the other hand, international charts (because the countries are much smaller) can be very quirky at times. Good to hear about FAMT. Whatever Oxygen decides to go with as the next single - let's just support it as best we can.

P.P.S. When the %$#* is Warners going to release the rest of the America catalog domestically? They are the worst for reissues.

I'm telling you all, Wednesday Morning is America's best shot at getting back on the charts in the US! Release it to the AC stations, and watch it crossover to the Pop charts!

Ok since you asked for it, here's the definative BOB list:
Dewey: Ventura Highway (America's best ever)
Gerry: Sister Golden Hair
Dan: Today's The Day
Combination (written by two or more): Hat Trick
Third Party (written by somebody else): I Do Believe In You

Great news Karen! I didn't know FAMT was a hit in Spain and now Wednesday Morning is moving up the charts! WOW! Maybe it's time to release Wednesday Morning in the US!!!!!

Me, too!

Gerry-Submarine Ladies
Dewey-Amber Cascades
Dan-I Never Found the Time

they're not hits but they are my best of the best!

Rose McGowan? the future mrs. guru?
rumor has it there'll be another other show.
but I never can tell.
"rumor has it I'm not who I've been" -? (that's _my_ trivia question, I'll give everyone 10 days to figure out what that's from. first person to get it wins something. seriously. i'm not sure what yet, but I'll take care of you. something unique. something good for the soul. cheers

D. Guru

OK, I've put this off too long.
Gerry: Sister Golden Hair
Dewey: Ventura Highway
Dan: Don't Cross the River

Hi all, I'm one of those people that "lurks" but never posts. It's hard to get time on the computer between kids and husband. My best of the best list would have to be.
Gerry- "Who Loves You" a most under rated song in my opinion.
Dewey- "Amber Cascade"
Dan- "Today's The Day"
I remember seeing a singer playing in Saratoga CA. about 5 years ago. I remember enjoying his voice then all of the sudden he started playing "Monster" and then he played "Old Virgina" (including the whistling) and followed that up with "Clarice". I was in shock. I was with my girlfriends and they thought I was nuts. I was too shy to talk to him so I had my freind request "Call Of The Wild". I didn't think he would know it but he sure did. It was a great evening. I'm not 100% sure but I think it was Jeff Larson. It dawned on me after I recieved his CD and heard his voice and saw his picture that it could have been him. Very talented guy with good taste.

Gosh, I was just trying to help save you before Johnny caught it. Format is good for the soul.

Pete

Gene...Pete, indeed! But knowing Pete, he thinks he has SOMETHING to do with it. ROFL...

Mags

Mags

Karen:

Great news! Thanks for the update.

Mags

ShariL, when I was real young and silly, I changed the words in I Need You from "left to me, you left to me..." to "right of me," I know, it's silly!! But sometimes, we have to be silly! I promise, if I remember any serious lyric changing, I will share those too. I really liked your Daisy Jane story. First loves are so fine!
Stay tuned -b

This is a good idea. At one point I believe that Ger and Dew entertained the idea of having an AOL hosted chat.

Let me be the first to say it's WEDNESDAY MORNING in Florida.

Okay, here goes.
Does anyone else have their own set of words to any America songs?
For me, as was hinted earlier, it's Daisy Jane.
Example: Flying me back to LaGrande, honey keep the Bronco warm.
Daisy Jane translates into David Duane.
Fit me personally at the time, a year after leaving the first love of my life. Still think of the words every time I hear the song, even live. That's also why I have such a soft spot for Daisy Jane. This guy was also the first one to every buy me an America album. We listened to Holiday all the time in his Bronco (on 8 track!!!). Another reason I love Old Man Took so much.
So, anybody else make up their own words to songs, or is it just me? Particularly America songs, but maybe anything, with some of the reasons behind it.
Is this too personal?
Take care, all. ShariL <><

Gordan, I AM a true fan....but don't know who Rose is. Will take a guess that it's Dewey's mom.
Stay tuned -b

My vote for the second single goes to Pages!
Stay tuned
-b

I like the idea of a possible Question of the Month for our guys. Seems hopeless dreamer has put some thought into the suggestion, covering "rules" and even instigating the "contest" idea. Haven't seen any other replies to this....Would it be a bad thing?
Stay tuned -b

I guess The folks in Spain have some pretty good musical tastes! That's really cool! Just wanted to acknowledge a big THANK YOU To Rob G. I finally have a copy on tape of VGG and I must say, It's Incredible!!! I am truly in awe! If my own CD comes out even a quarter of the way as good I'd be amazed! Rob- lately I've been hearing a lot of cynical remarks about people who live in Connecticut being so snobby & stuck up! I've always lived by the old saying "You attract more Bees with honey, instead of vinegar.." So in other words, I may be a Nutmegger (Or just a plain nut-LOL), But I really appreciate any friendly gesture! And I DO realize that here in this Chat Folder There are plenty of respectful people! Thanks Again Rob- I'll give a critique later when I've heard the songs a few more times! Hey Maybe the Fans in Spain will make "Overwhelming World" tha biggest selling song of 1999!!! BuhBye-TeeTee

Trivia Question for true America Fans: Who is Rose?

Thanks Gene and Robyn for coloring within the lines. I know it's not as fun but I think the results will be interesting although probably not totally unpredictable. Oh Jim, come on, you can make an exception just this one time, can't you? Just think of the songs as step-CHILDREN for a brief moment.

Karen, thanks for the explanation about "WM" in Spain. Like Howard, I was very confused at the time. If "WM" is doing well in Spain, ya gotta think it would do equally well in the States. I know it's not any guarantee but musical tastes can't be that different between the two countries, would you think? However, I do remember "Survival" and Mexico. "Survival" should have been a hit here, I think. Must have been due to poor promotion. But hey, "WM" over "M2M" four to one in the song tourney has to tell us all something!! Regardless of the next release selection, we'll all support it, of course, but wouldn't you want to go with the fan's choice. I'm a bad boy...stirring the pot again. Okay, okay, I'll stop it. I've put the spoon down and now I'm going to wash the dishes (with "Wednesday Morning" on repeat play).

Dewey - Ventura Highway

Dan - Lonely People

Gerry - Sister

GH

I am surfing thru here quickly and didn't see Johnny's original post, forgive my dust addled brain but when you move three libraries in three weeks, you get a bit bozo....

ok, per format

Dan-- DOn't cross the River

Dewey-- Amber Cascades

Gerry-- I need you.

There Ok Am I forgiven????????

THAT'S A TOUGH ONE.

ok

Dan-- Don't cross the River

Dewey-- THree Roses

Gerry-- Another Try

( I was also torn between Green Monkey and Pages by Dewey. )

Howard:

Human Nature is being distributed by different labels in different countries. They make their own choices about singles.

Best,

Karen D.

Dan - Lonely People
Dewey - Tin Man
Gerry - Sister Golden Hair

Mags
What's Pete got to do with it?? PLEASE

OK
Dan (under protest)- Today's the Day (Does All Things Are Plossible Count?)

Dewey - Tin Man

Gerry - Sister

there you go..I playedf by the rules

Gene

All right Johnny..Best of the Best..since I'm all dressed up with no where to go..(thanks for the weather update, Shari..not coming to Calif. tomorrow, as Ronnie is sick again..That's it! "Kid for Sale or Rent"..come on Gene, since all you have is a CAT..just kidding..he's my life's breath..anyway..where was I?? Best of the Best..
Dan.."Don't Cross the River"..Dewey.."Horse With No Name"..(can I have 2?? love Border!!) and Gerry.."Daisy Jane"..So there. Hope all is well with everyone! :)

Hey!
So far, Hearts is the most popular album to be replaced if fans were updating their America collection to CD's. Any other opinions before the final tally comes out Thursday AM?

Michelle

But Johnny, Oh Johnny,
I just can't pick the "best,", they are all like children & it's tough to play favorites. So it's just that I have a hard time in that regard.
But hey my favorite moving picture for this decade, "Life is Beautiful."

Dan: Today's The Day
Dewey: Tinman
Gerry: Sister Golden Hair

Wednesday Morning is moving up the charts in Spain??? Does this mean it will be the next release here?

Shayne

Karen, how is that possible. Did Oxygen release Wed Morn
overseas, or are radio stations taking matters into their
own hands and playing whatever they want. Very confused, hl

Here's my best of the best:
Dan: Lonely People
Dewey: Ventura Highway
Gerry: Only In Your Heart

I haven't posted up until now because first of all I'm
absolutely sick to my stomach and steaming mad of people who post anonymously. If you got something to say..say it and let us know who you are!!! We won't think more or less of you. It's an opinion and everybody is entitled to one...especially on this board. If you got info you would like to share...share it.
BE HUMAN AND STOP ACTING LIKE CHILDREN!!! 2 KIDS ARE ENOUGH FOR ME!
Sorry all, hl

As you may or may not know, FAMT was a huge hit in Spain, hitting number one on their national radio charts at one point. Word comes today that Wednesday Morning is now charting there, as well.

Spain loves America.

KD
OR

There's been a good response on the "Best of the Best" but still haven't heard from fans such as Howard, Mark, Jimnak, Janice, Virgina, Penny, Joanne, Cari, MattB, Adrian, Carlos and others that I've probably overlooked....sorry. (Robyn's busy moving at work and Shayne's at his new job).

Ok just to throw this out there. I only have vague recollections of the details, but when HORSE WITH NO NAME skyrocketed to no.1 upon AMERICA's US debut, a number of radio stations had contests where I believe they attempted to give away a live HORSE ! Lots of problems were encountered for various reasons w/local authorities, etc., anyone out there have any info on this ? I would be curious to hear any details, on any of the HORSE promotions run bt local radio stations. ***** GO AMERICA 1999 !!! *****

don't have any answers to any grand mysteries, don't want to offend or overstep my bounds, really have no business talking at all....BUT just trying to have something positive to look forward to & mostly just dreaming out loud for a second here...

'tis would be nice if we, the faithful, could have perhaps a little interaction via this site w/ Dewey & Gerry & the other guys. I said LITTLE, don't want to impose too much, & know that fans can be a pretty bothersome, if not downright scary, lot. Just think though -- if we could offer a "Question of the Month" (as in ONE, remember, don't want to overdue it). This could be on a rotational basis : April - Gerry, May - Dewey, June - Willie, July - Gerry, Aug. - Dewey, Sept. -Woodz, Oct. - Gerry, Nov. - Dewey, Dec. - Brad, then start all over again....
The questions could be proposed here, endlessly debated upon, voted on, then at the start of each month, through whatever channel deemed appropriate, the big "Question of the Month" offered --- kind of like a long, drawn-out interview with already won-over journalists. Perhaps even a forum to say directly WHATEVER, a way to clear up some of the crap floating around out there (or here). I don't think it would be toooooo draining, as Dewey & Gerry would only have to each deal w/ answering once every 3 months, the other guys, once every 9 months, THEY could set up "rules" if they felt any were needed, plus they ALWAYS maintain veto power. and OUR part in it, would be eternal gratitude - something I think most of us could come up with quite easily....

Like I said, I'm just dreaming out loud, probably need to get back to the real world......

I'm sure there will be a second single. What we're seeing is a clever marketing ploy by Oxygen. Wait six to 12 months between singles to ensure the success of the first single doesn't taint subsequent releases. Sort of a marketing sorbet, a cleansing of the radio palate if you will. It's all very complicated for non-marketing types to comprehend.

KevinS.

Better late than never?
Harbor, Hearts, Homecoming (my FIRST on CD, by the by--what a geeked up fest THAT was...lol) America, Hattrick! There! (C:

As for Johnny's post.....
Dan=Don't Cross The River
Dewey=Amber Cascades
Gerry=Only In Your Heart

Dan-Never Found The Time
Dewey-Molten Love
Gerry-Bell Tree

Mark, there definitely will be a second release (so I'm told). Just a matter of time. I, too, am very eager!

Ok, here goes: Name of Christmas CD: Holiday #2
Desert Island Album:Something by The Beatles, Abbey RD,Revolver,SGT.Pepper, White Album
Replacing Albums:America-Hearts, then View f/the ground
FAVE HITS: Dan-Lonely People, Dewey-Ventura Highway, Gerry- hard pick between Sister & Daisy, OK, Sister Golden Hair.
Did I get everything?

I think it's pretty obvious now that there won't be a second single released. Too much time has passed. That's a shame too, because I thought FAMT had cracked the ice and paved the way for a second single. That's why I say we need to go ahead and call stations and ask them to play anything from Human Nature.

Hello everyone. I'm just wondering when the official announcement for the follow up to FAMT will be made, it appears MTM is favourite.With everyones choice for follow up it could have been one of several tunes,just an indicator to what a strong album HN is !!! As for all the commotion on the chat folder,we are all here for the same reason and perhaps have not met in the flesh,but are all AMERICA fans.United we stand ,lets hope this extraordinary group get the reccognition they so richly deserve.Im still of the school of thought that a spark of good fortune will ignite these guys into a raging inferno,perhaps just the start of America's real success story!

For the Chattanooga concert (May 19) firefighters are calling to publicize and do ticket sales.

Tim

I agree -- I NEED YOU could be remade into something remarkable, given the right approach. I disagree with you, however, in your comments regarding acoustic music, for I would hardly consider "Hooty" or "Crow" to be acoustic artists, at least not in any genuine sense. In order to find true acoustic craft, one needs to look outside of the limited sphere of pop...

The Best...Dan-"Don't Cross The River".....Dewey-"Tin Man"....Gerry-"Daisy Jane"

Yeah, Gene-o...follow the FORMAT for Pete's sake, lol.

Luv ya!

Mags

Hey I just heard a terrific cover of the Bread hit, Make it With You. The DJ didn't say the name of the person but the song was a soulful, slower version of the orginal, done very well, by a female artist. I keep hoping that some modern day soul type singer will do I NEED YOU, it could be pretty amazing. I think Johnny Mathis recorded it some years ago. I still have hopes that one of the modern day acoustic artists (Hooty, Crow, etc.) will do a cover of one of AMERICA's songs, that would be great for AMERICA.

I, too, love SGT. Darkness, but here's a copy of Sir Johnny's post:

Message: 5512 Posted: Sun Mar 14 13:09:14 1999 By: Johnny
Subject: The Best of AMERICA's Best

How about this for the next fun thing to do? Tell us which one (one and only one) of Dan's, Dewey's,
and Gerry's greatest hits is your favorite. The hit list are those songs that charted no less than #75. I'll
comply the votes and will give the results in a couple of days. Those fans who don't normally post
their thoughts but only read, let's hear from you!! Whatta ya say??

Pick one of Dan's from: Don't Cross The River; Lonely People; Woman Tonight, Today's The Day

Now Dewey's from: A Horse With No Name; Ventura Highway; Tin Man; Amber Cascades, The Border

And last by certainly not least, Brother Golden Hair's: I Need You; Only In Your Heart; Muskrat Love;
Sister Golden Hair; Daisy Jane; You Can Do Magic; Right Before Your Eyes; From A Moving Train

Good luck on the upgrade!

Hi Guys!!! I had computer upgraded. I have a lot of catching up to do.
Dan... Lonely People
Gerry..Sgt Darkness
Dewey.. Ventura Hwy
5 Vinyl to replace..Holiday Hearts,Hideaway,Alibi and America Live. I have everything else on CD.
I also bought California Dreamin as a single America Rules... Joe K

Camp Johnway?

Hey - it sure does look like Dewey's suitcase has a Camp Johnny sticker on it! Or is it Camp John Hay. Hmmmm

Stay Tuned
-b

TerryT, I wondered if it would have to be a left-hand guitar. Didn't have the energy to think it through clearly. Privately, I do have a dyslexia problem telling my right from your left... :->

Cool about your dad being a DJ!

I listened to some WLS if you can believe it...Live about 600 miles away from Chicago, Still, it would come in clear sometimes late at night. Remember I heard an interview with America one night... Must've been late 70's - circa 77 or 78. Stands out in my mind because my brother Dave was in Alaska and it was a rare phone call we got from him, and I told him over the phone that I was listening to the interview...I have no end to good memories with my brothers and America!

Beth, I thought about air guitar, too, but that would be left-handed guitar. The photo isn't flipped, because you can see how Dan's shirt buttons over. Lots of photos are mirrored as we know, and some aren't so obvious unless it's Cindy Crawford or Madonna. The vinyl cover of Introducing The Beatles is obviously flipped...note the buttons and wrist watches. This means it appears something is on Dewey's left ring finger even on the first album pic. Hourglass didn't need to show hands because unlike a clock, an hourglass is a time-measuring device without hands. If anyone is bothered about where we're going on this, see me privately in my office. ;)

Kevin Sutton, don't ever change! It seems your recent well-deserved pilgrimage has recharged you.

Sir Johnny, I could almost renege on TIN MAN and make it VENTURA HIGHWAY...but I won't. Yep, Dan definitely looks cheated there, but he's taking it well! Are you sure that the suitcase Dewey is carrying on the Encore cover doesn't say, "Camp Johnny"?

My first 45s were TELSTAR (sounds of static at beginning and end of an otherwise melody-only song supposedly bounced off a satellite), and RUNAWAY by Del Shannon. Then came the Beatles. Dating myself here. First albums were Chicago's first album, The Byrds' Greatest Hits, and Abby Road...I think. 45s were cool 'cause you could stack up a bunch of them on the player and set the tone for whatever was happening, or you wanted to happen...

My Dad owned a record shop in the Elvis days, then became a local AM radio announcer in the 60s, but it was adult contemporary for the adults of that time. I've seen a lot of vinyl and tape in my childhood, and hung around the station as a kid, looking at the walls of vinyl while he was on the air. I went to high school with Tommy James and was raised on radio...but mostly listening to WLS Chicago (AM). The Silver Dollar Survey was a list of the top 50 songs each week on a sheet that you could pick up at most music-oriented places. Wish I'd saved them! I remember the first FM stations that came out with good rock in our area and were in STEREO...they were called "underground stations" at the time because they played the likes of Led Zepplin, etc. Thanks for letting me ramble, if ya got this far.

Oh, I just remembered a few more songs on the K-tel album: Rainy Day Feeling (The Fortunes), Don't Pull Your Love (Hamilton, Joe Frank, and Reynolds), You Are The One (The Sugar Bears). Amazing what usless info you can remember from your youth when you let your mind wander. If I think of it long enough I might be able to remember all 22 songs.

The very first album I bought was one of those K-tel albums, Music Explosion (or something like that was the name of it). It had 22 chopped-up singles on it, they used to edit the intros and fades in order to fit 22 songs on an album. I can still remember many of the songs on it: Candy Man (Sammy Davis Jr), Layla (Derek and The Dominos), Simple Man (Lobo), Small Beginings (Flash), You Could of Been a Lady (April Wine), Chick-a-boom (Daddy Dewdrops), Mamie Blue (the original version not the remake by Stories), Nice To Be With You (Gallery), The Wedding Song (not John Denver's version), If Not For You (Oliva Newton-John), Popcorn (Hot Butter), and that's about all I can remember now. Who else but K-tel would dare put Candy Man by Sammy Davis Jr and Layla by Derek and the Dominoes (aka Eric Clapton and Duane Allman) on the same album?

I've never bought an America single - First America album I bought was also the first album of any kind I ever bought: History. Now, don't get too upset, but by my time, 45's were starting to become obsolete....I know I had a few, but honestly can't remember which one would've been first. Possibly something off the Foreigner Four album.

Stay Tuned
-b

Joe B, you mock me! I'm already clutching 9 albums by the greatest band, can't I carry along one that's at the far end of the musical spectrum? Variety is the spice of life, you know. Could've grabbed Nitty Gritty Dirt Band, or Cherry Poppin' Daddies, or Sade, or Randy Travis, or Woods Tea Company, or Savage Garden, or...

Howard Liebhoff was nice enough to send me America's 1999 tour schedule. Why can't I get it on Rick Wahlgren's site anymore? Also, I see several 1999 shows are Firefighter benefits. The one April 12 in Des Moines, Iowa has received next to zero publicity. There was a small classified ad for "Oldies Concert" without naming America. The only article has been a damaging one, claiming the telemarketing group behind the benefits (Ghel ?) billed a dead man for ordering a ticket over the phone on a date after he died. Iowa Attorney General's Consumer Protection Division is investigating. Again, why no publicity? Paul

The only America 45 I ever bought was California Dreamin. I always bought their albums instead of their singles. I almost bought the California Dreamin soundtrack album, but then I saw that the title track was the only song America did on it, so I just bought the 45. The first America album I bought was America after it had been out for about a year. I bought it as one of those mail order record house deals, where you used to get 12 albums for $1.00 but you had to sign up to buy so many over the next few years. I didn't even realize that they had done I Need You at that time. When I listened to the album I was hooked and ran out and bought Homecoming at the store. From then on I bought every album they released the first time I found it in a store.

Now, my very first 45 goes way back. It was purchased by my Mom for me when I was very young. It was Love Me Do / PS I Love You by the Beatles. I remember when I got that I wore it out the first day on my little record player.

Dan: Don't Cross the River
Dewey: Ventura Highway (although now Pages is my fave, but alas, wasn't one of the choices!)
Gerry: Sister Golden Hair

Vinyl to replace( in no particular order) Holiday, Hat Trick, Hearts, Harbor, and Hideaway.

Joe, I never bought an AMERICA 45 but I wished I would have. They sound like great collector's items among us AMERICA fans. My first 45, I believe, was the Monkee's "Daydream Believer".

Hey You People/Tom,

I've worked w/ Ronnie Rice and have seen him perform many times. The guy's an oldies jukebox and a blast to see. He can play anything/everything! He wasn't an original member of NC6 but was around for most of the big hits. NC6 usually play some summer concerts around here; occasionally Ronnie joins them and that's when they sound the best. Without him they're still OK, but his voice adds a lot. My best of America 'hits': Dan - "Lonely People", Dewey "Tin Man" (edging out 'Ventura"), Gerry - Sister".
Speaking of "Ventura Highway", that was the first 45 I ever bought (backed w/ Saturn Nights I believe). That was my first record, period. What was your first 45 and your first America 45?

Peace
Joe B

P.S. Don't you think 'Johnny Hates Jazz' is about due for a major comeback?

Dan: today's the Day
Dewey: Ventura Highway
Gerry: Sister GH

5 Vinyl to replace

America, Holiday, Hat trick, Homecoming, Silent Letter

Hey Michelle,

Just curious. Would you rather have "Summer Solstice" on a desert island. Or would "winter solstice" keep you mentally cool in the heat?

Joe B

Gene, please pick one of Dan's from the following: Don't Cross The River, Lonely People, Woman Tonight, Today's The Day.

the reason I listed the CDS I did is because they are generally hard to find. Of Course...get them all!!!

as far as best of the best goes....that's hard for me. Is it my personal faves or which songs I think are the best written.. Let's see...
Dan - It's Life, or Don't Cry Baby
Dewey - Tin Man, or Political Poachers, or Ventura, or 3 ROses
Gerry - Sister, or Call of the Wild or Inspector Mills

how's that?

I got a cat, no kids, and a girlfriend who's pissed at e half the time.

My choices (as of this moment in time):
Dan: Woman Tonight
Dewey: Ventura Highway (I always smile when I hear the opening chords)
Gerry: Daisy Jane (personal reasons, which will sometime come out in a future trivia question from me)
Altho I must say From A Moving Train is quickly rising to the top of my Gerry list.

Janice - it's raining in San Diego today. Hope it will be nice for you by the time you get here on Wed.
Take care, all.
ShariL <><

For me, the first 5 ("America" thru "Hearts")then #6 would be "Alibi".

Here's another "First Album Photo" possibility.

Dewey: "Okay guys, let's decide this way. On the count of three. Ready....set....one, two, three. Alright!! My pencil beats Gerry's paper so I get to have my five songs first then Gerry's two followed by your two, Dan, and then we'll select the remaining three songs in random order. Glad that's settled!"

Gerry: "Geez Dewey! That was a mighty fast one, two, three."

Dan: "Aaaaaa...plus I wasn't ready!"

Dewey: "Sorry guys, but around me, you've got to be quick if you wanna take the bait."

Hi there, We are going to the Friar Tuck concert. We have the A plan deal which sounds great. So this place is real nice. Have you ever watch a concert there before. By any chance do you know if America has a warm up band.

Dan: Don't Cross The River
Dewey: Ventura Highway
Gerry: Sister Golden Hair

Definitely three of the best ever written!!

Kevin,

Kevin, Thanks! Your wife is very lucky. So are your FIVE kids, dog, etc! Personally, I have an engagement ring on, a man I'll marry who I really love, two kids, two cats, etc. etc. etc...

Michelle, I agree. Dewey's wedding ring picture also strikes me as a very real sign of love for his wife. A good man!

Stay tuned
-b

Oh, and speaking of wedding bands: A female Dire Straits fan, huh, Beth? If I didn't already have on a wedding band...

KevinS.

Oh, yeah, not to mention if I didn't already have five kids, a wife I really love, a dog, and a whole lot of other crap that I'm happy about too.

Sorry, Cari. I just realized you did send me your address. It was stuck at the very bottom of your e-mail to me. I didn't see it the first time. Ooops.

To everyone else, I'm sorry you had to read this. Truly, truly sorry. You don't know the remorse I feel. I know how sensitive many of you are, and I apologize for using a public forum like this for my private correspondence. I beg your forgiveness.

KevinS.

Besides, if it was purposefully done (as I always assumed it was), I thought it was a wonderful, loving gesture to his wife.

Good night all. Michelle

Have ya'll done this before? I must not have read the archives very well. It was a very innocent inquiry - sorry :)

Homecoming, Silent Letter, Hearts, Hat Trick and Harbour

Please...let's not start all THIS over again...does it really matter? This is not The National Enquirer.

Fun!

Dan: Lonely People
Dew: Ventura Highway
Ger: Daisy Jane

Mags

Kevin,

Romeo & Juliet is my favorite Dire Straits tune, too! I also like "Where d'you Think You're Going" Good taste, my friend!
-b

Cari:

Before I can send you your Van Go Gan tape, you have to do me one little favor: E-mail me your address.

KevinS.

If I had to pick one album, it would be the Dire Straits album with "Romeo & Juliet" on it. I believe it's "Making Movies." Every song on that album is a classic. While, America's always been my favorite band, Dire Straits is right behind them. If there were a time capsule and I had to put just one song in it, "Romeo & Juliet" might be it. If you've never heard that song, put on your clothes, get in your car and go buy it right now. I'll wait....

See? Wasn't I right? Wasn't that song fantastic? It might be the most perfect non-America song ever written.

KevinS.

Sorry, Terry - no trick intended - vinyl or cassette.

Today I was looking through old picture albums, and came across several photos of my brothers and I on the old front porch of our family cabin. Brothers playing guitars, I in a chair off to the side, leaning forward...singing along...

I remember those times so well, but somehow looking at those pictures today...it brought things back so clear. I know we were singing Tin Man and Lonely People and Don't Cross the River and Horse...Good times. Good tunes. God, how I love acoustic guitar!

Michelle - I pulled out my(10 total) albums. Dewey's wedding band is clearly visable on almost half: Alibi, View from the Ground, Your Move, and the first Album.
What he's doing with his hands on that album cover, is, of course, playing air guitar! Don't you think?

Dewey's wedding band is not shown on covers of Silent Letter, Harbor, Hideaway, Hearts, History, Hatrick, or Homecoming.

Another interesting observation on this subject, Dewey's hand is in his pocket on covers of Hideaway, Hearts, Holiday, and Hatrick. The picture is shot as such that his hands are not even shown on Silent Letter, Harbor or Homecoming.

Probably more information than anyone needed to know, but it's Sunday evening....I'm bored!

Stay tuned - b

My picks for B of the B:
Dan: Don't Cross the River
Dewey: Ventura Highway
Gerry: Daisy Jane

Stay Tuned - b

One of my friends got me a signed # 78 copy for Christmas one year, she actually has the signed #1 copy (and yes I've seen it).

Dan: Don't Cross the River

Dewey: Ventura Highway

Gerry: I Need You

Best of the best:
DON'T CROSS THE RIVER
TIN MAN
YOU CAN DO MAGIC (not written by Bro Gold, but performed with SOUL, especially the original version)
SISTER GOLDEN HAIR would rank first if the song had to be written by the American (love that Jackson Browne influence)

Replacing vinyl or tape:
America
Homecoming
Encore
(wait a sec...are we assuming vinyl or tape? Is this a trick question, Michelle? If cassettes are included, I continue):
Hideaway
Hourglass

I'm not gonna go away about that first album pic (see Msg# 5505). Either nobody knows, or they don't think I'm serious (The humorous answers are great!). As with Johnny, definitely no respect intended! If you knew me, you would know that. Somebody must know or have heard a story. This would fill the only gap I have left in my trivia(L) knowledge quest. Shucks, I'm gonna call Dewey right now...

Christopher Cross / America

Singing his hits Ride Like The Wind and the Oscar winning single Arthur's
Theme Christopher Cross shares the evening with one of the most influential
groups of the 1970's, AMERICA, made famous by hits such as Ventura
Highway and A Horse With No Name.

Thursday, March 18, 1999 at 8:00pm

Thank-You Very Much
tx2

The Best Of The Best....Gerry: "Overwhelming World" Dewey:"Rainbow Song" Dan:"Rainy Day" My Choices for Five CD's:
America(1st), Homecoming, Hearts, Perspective, and Human Nature (Yes I have "Perspective" on CD, Vinyl and Cassette.)Now that I look at my list I realize that I could spare some inconvenience by bringing along "History" and "Encore". Did anyone watch Saturday Night Live last night? I remember folks in this Chat Folder mentioning,as far a new talent goes, The Coors. They are fantastic! It's reassuring to see that kind of real talent performing on SNL. I'm sick of the alternative/ rap-crap/ hip-hop they force us Baby Boomers to watch nowadays. Wouldn't it be fabulous to see America on SNL? Did They ever perform on SNL, I don't think so. Anyway, The Coors are great! Yes I Know- AMERICA is Better!!! I just wanted to pass along a critique that was a positive one. Thanx-TeeTee

Dan..."Today's the Day"

Dewey..."Ventura Highway"

Gerry..."Daisy Jane"

Jim...Erie, PA

Live, Silent Letter, Holiday, Hearts, Harbour

Once again, a very interesting and entertaining story that you've written, TerryT. My guess is that Dewey is saying, "See, I can drink a soda, look suave, smile, AND balance a piece of chewed gum on my index finger all at the same time." Gerry's probably thinking, "And all I want are some new shoe strings." And Dan, "Far out, Dude!" (Certainly no disrespect intended, just a little ribbing. As we all know, we love and admire the guys!)
Here's my vote for " The Best of the Best".
Gerry: SGH (definitely a favorite) Dewey: Tin Man Dan: Woman Tonight

OK, imagine you own all of America's album and have decided to replace them with CD's. Which five CD's would be included in your first order?

A friend once pointed out to me that Dewey's wedding band is clearly shown on quite a few of the album cover photos. My albums are all packed away...can anyone confirm this, and tell me which albums they see this on?

Dan - Today's The Day

Dewey - Amber Cascades

Gerry - Only In Your Heart

Windham Hill's "A Winter's Solstice", 1985

How about this for the next fun thing to do? Tell us which one (one and only one) of Dan's, Dewey's, and Gerry's greatest hits is your favorite. The hit list are those songs that charted no less than #75. I'll comply the votes and will give the results in a couple of days. Those fans who don't normally post their thoughts but only read, let's hear from you!! Whatta ya say??

Pick one of Dan's from: Don't Cross The River; Lonely People; Woman Tonight, Today's The Day

Now Dewey's from: A Horse With No Name; Ventura Highway; Tin Man; Amber Cascades, The Border

And last by certainly not least, Brother Golden Hair's: I Need You; Only In Your Heart; Muskrat Love; Sister Golden Hair; Daisy Jane; You Can Do Magic; Right Before Your Eyes; From A Moving Train

Hi David,
I will be attending the RI show next friday night. Would you like me to get you a t-shirt? What size and where do you live? Let me know BEFORE friday AM. Maureen

Hi Tom,
Regarding the RI show, the best thing to do is call the performing arts center. If you go to the America concert list and click on the link, their number will be shown. OK and good luck. Maureen

I'm interested in any Baltimore dates.

Joe - Thanks for the info on Boz Scaggs. I checked and found out he released a new album in 1997 (not the anthology) that was nominated for a 1998 Grammy award for best contemporary blues album. I never heard anything about it. You're right, there are several cds available.

Now that's the deep insight we're looking for! Can anyone top that?

Answer to Terry's question about the first album.

Dewey: "If you guys don't stop laughing about the way I wear my hair, I'm goin' to wipe this booger right on the middle of your forehead."

If stranded on JL's perverted desert island, I would need to have at least one Beatles album. After that, it gets tough. I would probably need HELP.

Something has been bothering me lately. Years ago I had no doubt, because what I thought I was seeing seemed a natural thing of the times. But now I'm wondering again. Maybe I missed out on the info somewhere along the way and everyone knows but me. Maybe it was once posted on this folder. This question is directed to the Right Hand of America. To the King of the Forrrrest...not a prince, not a duke, not a.... Someone who walks in the room and even Daisy Jane has to courtsey. OK: On the cover of the America (first) album, what the heck is Dewey doing with his right fingers? Is he picking his nails, gesturing, or is he holding something? Every time he sees me he starts talking to other fans or signing things real quick, because he knows I'm gonna ask him. He'd probably say he was describing cloud formations, or that he was holding a piece of a blown out truck tire. Aw c'mon, Dewey! And what were you all laughing about? ;)

Too Easy? Maybe for Stephen King Fans like you (And I) but in all the time I've been involved with this Chat Folder, I've noticed that no one mentioned it. Congrats for guessing that one correctly! "The Stand" is one of my personal favorite books too. For those of you that don't know exactly which part of the lyric is quoted- it's the Chorus.."..I understand you've been running from the man...." Hey Joe B.- Did you interview Ronnie Rice? I checked out his Website and I must say, he seems like quite a character. I honestly admire what he did with the NC6. Did you ever see them perform live? The Cryan Shames huh? I'll have to check them out-Thanks!

The answer to the latest trivia question is Stephen King's "The Stand"!! My favorite book by one of my favorite authors! That was TOO easy!!

Di

9 plus..OK, I know this will sound weird, but Saturday Night Fever. If America is there to take away my cares with their harmonies, that one got me up and dancing.

Hey did anyone need/want more info on this Baltimore date on 7/3. I know it's still listed as a Missouri date, but watch carefully over the next few weeks.

Robyn, yes I received your e-mail. Thanks. I was interested in the Japanese translation of "Gerry Beckley Van Go Gan". On the CD case, it's on the right edge. It's opposite of "Gerry Beckley Van Go Gan" in English. I'll fax it to you and you can let us all know how the translation goes.

TerryT, yes Bob Segar's "Like A Rock" and Chevy's truck commercial. It's very effective. It really would be nice if Pontiac could be persuaded to use "Ventura Highway" in one of their commericals. I think it would be great if the Pontiac ad said, "We brought you the Ventura and the GTO convertible in the 60's and 70's and because you deserve it, we've built just for you the all new and powerful Firebird Trans Am convertible for 1999!" I know, don't quit my day job. I got the idea from AMERICA's "favorite fan", little ol' Daisy Jane from a few days ago when "she" mentioned that "she" owns a Chevy Ventura. Remember? She sure has a great writing style. Reminds me very much of yours....I wonder maybe just maybe....hummmmm????

JL (John), that's an excellent question and a tough one too. Let's see...probably one of the following:

Toto's "Past To Present 1977-1990"
Crowded House's self-titled LP
Johnny Hates Jazz's "Turn Back The Time" or
Daryl Hall's "Soul Alone"

On second thought, let's go with Journey. Yeah!
Journey's "Raised On Radio"

Hey You People,

Patti - Most of Boz Scaggs stuff is available on CD; there was even
an anthology released about 2 years ago that was pretty good
Tom T - WOW! Being a native Chicagoan, I've been a big fan of the New Colony 6 for a long time. I even was lucky enough to interview
the members a couple of years ago. There's some cool Chicago pop/rock from that era including the Buckinghams and Cryan' Shames. The Shames have a great anthology oyr with approx.
20 cuts called "Sugar & Spice". If you like 'Colonization' you
probably will dig the Cryan' Shames. They were huge in the
Midwest/Chicago, but didn't do much nationally. Great harmonies, songwriting, production, & an awewsome lead singer.
Howard- Poco is a fantastic band. Including some of their 80's stuff that just came out on CD rules! It was totally ignored at the time, which is a real shame (a cryan' shame to be exact).

Peace
Joe B

P.S. I agree you can't wrong with Pet Sounds, but today I'm thinking
about Steely Dan's "The Royal Scam" as album number 10.

White Album

What Famous Best Selling Novel used the lyrics to "Sandman" as a little poetic introduction to one of it's chapters? Hint: It's classified as an EPIC novel. I don't want to give too many obvious hints because that might make it too easy!

Welcome, Wayne! I am just a face in the crowd and have no real or imagined connection with them, other than a love for their music. I have had the good fortune to meet them and I have a signed cocktail napkin..(thanks, Gerry)..and a signed tee-shirt..(thanks, Pete)other than that I enjoy reading others' "great America adventures"..sounds like you are raising new clan of fans! Make sure you take them to the concert in May..my son loves to go with me..he is only 5 but knows the words to many of their songs!

Just babbling here. I feel so unworthy here, having never met the band or collected any autographs. Kudos to most of you on here who are true fans of the band. I have always liked America. My 18th birthday party I played the Hat Trick album again and again much to the dismay of some of the party goers...ha, too bad. Most of my "growing up" years America was my favorite music. Why do I never tire of listening to it? My 10 year old son is also a fan and loves the music and is learning the guitar so he can play it.
My sister painted the whole inside cover from Homecoming on a 12 foot bedroom wall after I bought the album. As far as I know the wall still has the picture on it.
I just discovered this site recently. Glad to see there is so much support for America here. Maybe someday, hopefully soon I'll be able to meet these guys that have been part of my life for so long and collect an autograph or something.
By the way, no one ever said whether they were attending the Wichita, KS concert on May 26....anyone coming?

Wayne

Enya's Watermark

revolver (beatles)
or the Bends (Radiohead)
or New Way to Be Human (Switchfoot)
or Pet Sounds.

but probably Revolver

mB
BluLight Studios

Revolver

Lately I've been listening to a lot of Beatles and Beach Boys...so it would be a tough choice between those two.

I was wondering if there would be anyone willing to buy the new America T-shirts for me at a concert, since I am not able to make it to a concert, and send it to me, and I would send you the money by money order. If so, please let me know. I really want the new shirts. Thanks.

Joe & Howard - Boz Scaggs and Poco are both great choices. Joe, do you know if Boz Scaggs can be found on cd. I used to have all the albums for both Boz and Poco. Have most of Poco on cd and have been listening to them a lot lately. Would love to have Boz.

This is a no brainer..."Abbey Road"...next question?

Jim...Erie

Yes! Pet Sounds...the catalyst for all that followed.

Mags

ok. is this a test?

so stranded... 9 America---1.......GB VGG - I just have to get my hands on a copy before I can sail off to that desserted island. Kevin has so generously offered. Looking forward to checking the mail and getting something other than JUNK mail and BILLS for a change.

I would have to pick the "Pet Sounds" box set. Brian Wilson at his best. It doesn't get much better than that. What better music to have when deserted on a desret island.

COOL thing, Chatty...should do this every month! First impression is of all the silent lyric and chord seekers out there. The most chosen songs pretty much make up the History album. I'm not surprised. Howard's photos are popular, and I can see why. Bios and sound clips When I first read the post, I thought it was gonna show ALL OTHER sites we visit! (whew...relief) THANKS

Johnny, what about LIKE A ROCK by Bob Seger?

Did you ever wonder what pages are visited the most on the America Fans web site. The following link is a sorted list of the pages that were visited during February 1999 (only includes pages that were visited 20 times or more). You can click on the page name to visit each page.

w-d, This is a post originally from AmericaSL (Steve Lowry) on Feb 27:
America's booking agent is Akiko Rogers at APA in Los Angeles. Unfortunately, I don't have her number (you can get it from Karen DiGesu). If Akiko is difficult to reach you can call Morey Management in Los Angeles at 310-278-0808. Of course, you can always contact Karen (MobDoll@aol.com) at Oxygen Records. She speaks to both band and management frequently and would be glad to help anyone who wishes to book America. She can be reached at 212 758-4636, extension 239 and welcomes the request!

You go and get America back to Wisconsin for us!!
-b

Can anyone tell me where the America concert is being held on May15?
It says Vet Rock 99, sounds like a festival of some sorts.
Any help would be greatly appreciated.

As far as having that 10th cd on the island, I burned a CD with
all my favorite Poco songs by which are 98% sung by Timothy B. Schmidt.I don't have the list, but It took me a long time to do
this, but it's absolutely wonderful. hl

This is a truly great topic for discussion...It's very difficult to choose one because it depends on my mood. The mood I'm in lately is for the Oldies...I recently purchased New Colony Six's "Colonization". I absolutely love "I Will Always Think About You" and "Things I'd Like To Say". Two examples of schmaltzy-pop that I adore!!! But in terms of one LP I couldn't live without..."4 Out Of 5 Doctors".It an LP released in '80-81 when the pop/ New wave thing was in and I have to admit I've worn out 4 out of 5 copies!!!LOL- there's not a bad song on it! I wish it was on CD- but I'm afraid I'm the only one who feels this way!

Hey Johnny- the answer is Phil Collins. It was great talking with you in the chat room last night. Sorry I missed you Howard. I didn't get in until 10:45 pm or so. See Ya TeeTee

Hey You People,

Congrats to Gene & Johnny on the correct trivia response. Great ? about what one non-America album you'd bring on the island. One of the common threads we share here is a love for music - many diverse ones. That makes it nearly impossible to pick just one - but I'll say if it was today (tomorrow may be different) I'd grab "Silk Degrees" by Boz Scaggs. One of those rare albums where every single cut is superb. The album cuts are actually better than the 'hits'. "What Can I Say" (the first song) is possibly the most perfect pop record produced. The combo of vocals, bass, percussion, guitar, strings, flutes, and an amazing sax solo blows me away every time. I'm getting excited just thinking about it. In terms of America's songs, there are so many well-produced tunes, but I've always felt "Tin Man' was a great example of quality, understated pop perfection. And on and on and on I go. I'll shut up now.

Peace
Joe B

Phil Collins..that's who I was gonna say! ;) Shari..glad to hear the weather out there is 80! Hope it holds up..coming out there Wednesday for a few days..gotta get outta this cold stuff here! Let's see..desert island..9 America albums..hmmm...maybe something by the Chipmunks...or maybe my Terrance Boylan album..and Christmas album name.."Peace and Harmony"..oh and by the way..I continue to get e-mails about the misinformation I passed along about the New York concert..tells me we have some real die hard fans on the east coast! Anyway..sorry again folks..I screwed up the info..it is the Baltimore/DC concert but it appears that many will still be going to that one..thanks for the invite to join you and Maureen, Penny..I will try! Nite all!

How about "Hanukka"?

KevinS.

Beth, thanks for YOUR insight. I will take it further with the "and then it came..." I think ( relating to my original premis--lol) that it refers to family stories, and how your parents are always telling you to behave, or they will hear about it. ANyway, I am probably way off the mark, but I think it is interesting how one song can be interepreted in many ways. ( There's my lit teacher training rearing it's ugly head again!)
Have a great weekend. I will be off line for a while- I am relocating one of the branches in our library system next week, so I won't be in at the computer.

As of this minute ( subject to change on a whim) Bonnie Raitt, THe Bonnie Rait collection, a dandy retrospective of this fine musician's work over the years, including a rare rendition of "woman Be wise" with the late great Sippie Wallace- outstanding stuff for a fan of the blues like me!
ALthough King Crimson's Discipline would run a close second.

Robyn,
Thanks for your insight! Your explainations made a lot of sense. I have always thought of the lyrics as from a broken relationship. "Make the best of what you've left to me" (after you left me, I always imagined) Two lovers broke up because of gossip and rumors, "Then it came / That I was put to blame / for all those stories told about me" So, that's my take on it!

John,
Interesting question! Depends on the day for me, but right off I'd have to say Netherlands, Dan Fogelberg.
Stay Tuned -B

Scenario: Stranded on the perverbial desert island. Can take 10 cds with you. Assuming that 9 of them are by America, what would the last one be? Reason for asking is very selfish. I like to go out and experiment with artists / music I've never heard of. Since everyone on this list has the same great taste in music I'd be interest in expanding my collection. I've already heard people rave about Jeff Larson and Gene's stuff. (I'll be looking to lay my hands on those). What would that one other album, non-America, that you couldn't live without?

Mine, right now, would be a group from Toronto called Hemingway Corner - "Under the Big Sky". early America style with lots of great harmonies and acoustic guitar work, even the La,la,la's.

Ok, we haven't had a lively discussion for a while so here is what I have been thinking about.

I read here somewhere that Julian Lennon is doing a version of " I need You" I find this interesting because of my personal take on the song. TO me, it is not a claasic"love song" but it seems to be from a young person to an older one, like a parent or grandparent. Let me elaborate. The opening gives me a sense of a family scene ( bow our heads then wonder why" The line that really gets me thinking this way though is " make the best of what you left to me" I don't take it to mean a physical inheiritance, byt a spiritual one. Anyone have any comments, or has prolonged exposure to the Dewey Decimal system Warped my brain? ( Hey, Library Joke).

Johnny-- did you get my e-mail? I will be moving yet another branch next week, so it may take some time for me to follow thru. Let me know if you want me to persue the info.

I am looking for booking information for a client, who would we contact for this in northeastern wisconsin?

America Fan, right on!! I'm impressed with your quick answer. You desire to be unknown, we see. Humble and smart....two very excellent traits.

Phil Collins

I thought of this trivia q. while listening to "Twist & Shout" from AMERICA's 'Heard' CD: In the Beatles movie, "A Hard Day's Night", the Beatles are performing on stage and the camera pans the audience. What British musical performer can be seen in the audience as a teenager? He became a popular performer as an adult and is very popular today.

Michelle!

Welcome! Would love to hear your HN story...

Mags

Kevin, If it's not chocolate, It ain't worth the calories!

Elmo, you're probably right. It makes more sense. Maybe Karen can elaborate???

Welcome back Robyn!

Howard, I agree! Last night was enjoyable....Thanks for pointing out this Chat Folder to access, also.

I will plan to pay closer attention and join in the fun.

As you know, I was overwhelmed to learn Gerry's son Matt is a regular here. Matt, I think the highest compliment I could pay is that I can't remember a time when I didn't know who Gerry Beckley was! My best wishes to all members of your family.

Is there anyone here who plans to attend the show on May 23 in Madison, Wisconsin?? I am going to do all I can to make sure I am there, just wondering if anyone would like to meet downstage afterwards and mention this page...Make a new friend in person!

I'll look forward to staying tuned....-B

Howard, I keep trying to read all the posts I have missed, being "out in the Field" for the last week ( I am moving a Library, talk about exhausting!) I haven't been able to read all the controversial snipes, but REALLY people!!! I come here to find out things about the band, when and where they are playing, when the new album is coming out, etc. We have had some wonderful discussions lately about the music, and of course Johnny's trivia questions keep me thinking! Can we please remember that the reason we are at this site is because of our mutual love for the band and the music? I am climbing off my soapbox now!

that would be"Fast Times At Ridgemont High", Mr Hand (Ray Walston) said it to his class, which included Spicolli (Sean Penn) and Stacy (Jennifer Jason Leigh). How's that?
G.

I'm still new here (when is a person considered old hat at this?), but I've been enjoying looking at everything available - truly an amazing amount of info!

I access this chat folder through oxygenrec.com, but I see it's also available from horsewithnoname.com - anywhere else?

Just finished reading "Comprehensive History" by John Corbett. Is that available in print somewhere?

This Chat Folder is a lot of fun...'thou I mostly just "peep".

The fan's biographies section seems to grow regularly-they're fun to read!-guess I need to work something up to submit.

I have most of America's albums on vinyl, but have been saving my pennies to replace them with CD's (don't get many pennies-we're feeding two teenage boys-the food they go through!). I see lots of distributors-can anyone recommend one over the others? I did buy HN right after Christmas-there's a story that goes with that!

Hope to see America for the first time in 13 years in the Catskills.

Michelle

I think Karen was referring to idea of "wheels being in motion"

Hallelujah was suggested. I like it! It says just what I would feel.
Also, that way, GERRY would be using a song name his son MATT has already recorded. What do you think, Matt? Should he follow in your footsteps, for a change?
Hope everybody has a pleasant weekend. Supposed to be 80 degrees tomorrow in San Diego - I'm not missing the snow the Midwest and East got this week!
Take care. ShariL <><

There are SO many America songs that should have been used for MANY things over the years (and more so, for those that WERE actually used). Movie scores, commercials, television...

Yes, Patti and Howard, "Rockin' Down The Highway"!

Joe B: Was it "Fast Times At Ridgemont High" and Mr. Hand?

Gordon: That was a great question the other day about "Hello Gerry" and Di F.

Howard, thanks for the title.

Only diehards will be able to answer this one:
What happened to Gerry's black Porsche which was featured in several photographs of the band?

is it "Rockin' Down The Highway"!!!
For some reason, I thought I heard it from tv the other day.
hl

Yes, Johnny, it's the small Chevy truck and it was intentional (I don't know the exact title of the song).

Hey You People,

And all this time I thought that band was a shining example of correct, polite behavior as expressed in the do-bee/don't bee designations on Romper Room. What a shocking, heartbtreaking letdown to know that it's really about drugs.
Trivia:
"Hey, are you people on dope" name the character and the movie that was said in.

By the way, looking at the Japanese liner notes to "Hat Trick" - one on the many funny screw-ups in translation is the opening line of the title track - instead of 'can I make it known' the liner notes have 'can I make it moan' - sounds kinda dirty to me.

Peace
Joe B

P.S. For Daisy Jane & the other wannabe's an America karaoke disc is available for $10.95 at www.ccmusic.com They also have the 7" vinyl single of 'You Can Do Magic'/'Right Before Your Eyes' for 4.95

An S-10, I'm not sure but it is Chevrolet. An S-10 is a truck, isn't it? I recall a red passenger car but you may be right. The name of the song is very, very close to the words in your question. Did you intend for it to be or was it a mere coincidence?

Very odd everyone?
So far for today, Friday March 12, 1999 only 23 posts
and people have posted at least 2 or 3 times and this chat
board has 161 VISITORS!!!! 23/161 = 14%,,,76% are missing???
ALOT OF PEEPING TOMS OUT THERE!!!!
Just an observation.hl

Johnny-is it the Chevrolet S-10 that's ridin down the highway?

Yes, Patti, you're right! I was typing the clue when you were giving your answer. Good going!! Can anyone else give the rest of the answer?

Here's a hint about the rock group's name. It's something a lot of people smoked during the 70's and some still do in the 90's. And I ain't talking about ham.

Is it...the Doobie Brothers?

Yes Karen, "Wheels" would be wonderful but we need the song recognition first, wouldn't we? Hey, I minored in marketing so I'm like the person who's taken Psychology 101 and thinks he/she is a psychologist (ha, ha).

Wheels Are Turning, Johnny....Wheels are Turning

KD

Patti, go ahead with what you know. Some is better than none.

Mark, thanks for the correction. Maybe someone else can take the idea from here. If Gerry or Dewey are on line, maybe they can give the idea to their management.

Johnny - I know who the group is, but I can't remember what auto company it's for. When I heard it, the music caught my attention and I thought exactly what you did about America music for the same type of commercial. Nice to hear some tunes from the past - lots of companies are using that tactic now. The only thing is, I only remember the music, but not the product! I won't tell who the group is since I don't have the complete answer.

Johnny

Keep in mind that Karen works for Oxygen Records not America. Since Ventura Highway was not released by Oxygen, I doubt that she would be able to work a deal for that song. However, I understand she has been working on Amtrak to try to get them to use From A Moving Train.

The DVD question reminded me of this. There is a Latino group out there going by the name America. They have a few CDs out. So fans of the real America beware.

Seems like Dewey and Gerry should be able to take some legal action.

Karen D, how about trying to get "Ventura Highway" in an auto commerical? I can see it now: A young attractive couple driving up a winding road in a convertible with the top down, the sun shining, and the "free wind blowing through their hair". Pontiac Motor Company would be ideal since they made a Ventura model car (like a GTO) back in the 70's.

Here's a trivia question for ya: What 1970's rock group has a 70's song used in a new tv auto commerical. Also, name the song and the auto maker.

Welcome Gene! Sent you an email regarding the black porsche and Irvine Meadows. Yes, that was the show with Leo Kottke.

Last night's chat was great. To all that were there,
Jen, Beth, Aspen, Maureen, Karen, Cari (I was on 930-11:15P)
So if I miss anyone's name..I apologize.
Even Matt was there. On March 23rd, his friends band
Switchfoot is coming out with a new album.
This was the band that their music was featured in Dawson's Creek.
Please check it out. Even his dad likes it. So how bad can it be?
You bet Matt!!!HL

Just left the Chat Room! It was nice Catting with other Fans of America! Hey Maureen, is the Rhode Island Show Sold Out? I love Providence, maybe I can swing out there last minute to catch the show! M2M must sound great in person!!!! Just hearing anything new would make me really psyched!!! Take Care- I'll check in tomorrow. It's nice to be back....Bye..TeeTee

Brian, that's a good one! You got me there.

wonerful, i myself saw this a few weeks ago and said alright. e-mailed thoughtscape and scott told me that it is a different band. some band that plays latin music.(nothing wrong with latin music) not gerry and dewey. sorry.

anyone know anything about this? saw on music blvd.

America by America DVD

Record Label: Image Entertainment
Release Date: 03/09/99
Catalog Number: 4726

Johnny, you are probably right but if they did name it Heavens Gate at least it would have a cult following.

One more thing, thank god for Bob, America (him), and nice people like you and Howard (and others) to keep me sane with my 'class from hell'. I am taking Environmental Science. The piano class starts June 1st. That should be a fun course. See ya. Maureen

Hi Ms Penny,
I agree with your comments. I am sorry I have been away. I miss you, too. I have the "Professor from Hell" this semester. Please forgive me. Hay, are you going to Friar Tuck?? Say yes, Ok. We are going to Rhode Island next friday. I CAN'T WAIT !!! Talk to you soon pal. Maureen.

I agree w/you guys. Gene Oh Murrell is tops. He can play many AMERICA songs, lots of album material. He has played material from GERRY'S solo debut masterpiece, VAN GO GAN, such as GOODBYE HIGHWAY, even played SARAH. He does requests, hope you can catch him out in the Carolinas.

Ben & Jerry's Phish Food - or Phish Stick - yummy.....

Leah...agreed! Gene's stuff is a must-have.

Mag

Brian, sorry but "Heaven's Gate" isn't a good name for a Christmas CD. "Heaven's Gate" is the same name as those cult members that did themselves in during the Hale-Bopp/UFO incident. Does it ring a bell?

Christmas CD title how about Heaven's Gate.

Ben & Jerry's cookie dough ice cream tops my list....
leah

I like vanilla pudding. How about you?

KevinS.

Hallelujah

Janice;

That's OK, I'll recover. Anyway, America with be with Chuck Negron of Three Dog Night fame on July 3rd. Email me for more info.

Mike

I'm sorry for the erroneous information I gave you New Yorkers about the concert..it was the Baltimore/DC concert posted here recently by Krasman123 I was referring to..boy..that's the last time he'll e-mail ME with a concert tip..let's see..how far is Baltimore from New York? Anyway, I was wrong..friends who know me forgive this quirk about my personality..part of my charm..lol...it's fun to say I'm wrong though..makes me feel human and better able to relate to other misinformed members of the race. Thanks for the Heard tape, Johnny!..like I said, I am mailing Eddy 3 personally taped concerts and he will be happy to run off copies for the interested parties..sorry for the delay..and please remember, these are for entertainment only, not for profit. (not that I would be able to profit from my amateur efforts..in other words, no, the band was not singing up-side down..that was just me seeing if I could tape and stand on my head at the same time!) Hi Gene! Still firming up plans for Easter week! Hilton Head seems like it will be a zoo that week!
Take care everyone..

Holly Hickups? Herald? Hark? Hilarious Holiday Hues? Hiding from Herod?

I asked my dad to translate the Asian writing on VGG. Dad said, "Sorry, no can do. It's Japanese not Chinese."

I know the writing is different but I thought there were enough similarities. I tried.

Any ideas for the name of the Christmas CD we've all been begging America to? I think it has to start with an "H"...

OK, maybe you DIDN'T hear it here first, but it was worth repeating.
ls

Good to see you over here, Gene!
Not only is Gene Murrell a nice person with impecable manners and a wicked sense of humor, he is a talented musician/singer-songwriter/performer, with quite a following of his own.
His CDs: Standing on the Edge and Do Me Live, are must-haves!

Remember: you heard it here first.

Leah

Gene-o! Where are you playing lately on that other coast? Sloppy Joe's misses you, I bet!

Hi Gene!! My name is John, and I'm an Americaholic.

Great Howard..thanks. Hope all is well in your corner.

G.

Welcome Gene, we spoke for a little.
How's everything doing? Fine I hope.
Take Care, Howard Lieboff

Hi there
Never posted here before, I mainly post over on the AOL folder. BUt I wanted to say hello. Looking forward to meeting some new friends.
Gene

I'm hiking up this hill and I have to move over for this black Porsche with personalized California license plate. Any guesses who it was?
uhhh.....the beer guys

Irvine is a great place. But you're right about the hike. Is that the show that also had Leo Kottke and Jesse Collin Young on the bill??

Thanks for the information. I will email you when I get home. OK. Talk to you then. Maureen.

Thanks for the info. We have already made reservations for the America "A" package. I have been there for dinner before. The food is pretty good for Upstate NY. The gounds are quite beatiful, too. The Catskill Game Fame is near by as well as Howes Caverns. That a great place to visit during the month of July. Talk to you. Maureen

Maureen, did you get my e-mail on the America concert at the Friar Tuck Inn.

Hey America fans on the East Coast! Though contracts are not signed yet, we have official word that America will be performing in the Baltimore/Washington area on Saturday July 3rd.
Who wants details? Email me at KRASMAN123@AOL.com.
Mike K.

You can also see G&D's "dueling Porsches" on footage from the Live in Central Park laserdisc

Hello,
Can anyone help me retrieve a schedule of concert appearances? I've tried to access this info' off this web listing, however it hasn't been available the last couple of days. I'm interested in any up and coming Florida tour. Thanks for your help.

Scott

When I met Gerry at Club Bene last year (7/25/98), he signed my
History cover the same way. ???

Hi Maureen,
My autographed copy of VGG sounds identical to yours! He has an arrow pointing back to himself with the word "me" on it. wonder how
many he signed like that???

Maureen..got an interesting e-mail last night from a promoter in New York who is handing a concert in your area and has offered to pull tickets before they go on sale..e-mail me and I'll give you the scoop..you and Penny..and it appears to be sometime around the beginning of July however, I don't see a lot gaps in their tour during that time. We'll see..take care, janice

Hi Kevin,
Welcome back. Sounds like you had a great time !! I do really apreicate the ticket stub. You're great. Please email me at home with your address ok. I am at work now, so we will chat later. I can't wait to hear Moment to Moment, that is now my #2 favorite, right after 'All My Life'. Have a great day and speak to you later. Maureen.

Where do I send your check??????? (C=

Re: the joke Gerry made about the TShirt guy and the porsche -
Gerry was pulling your leg.

In 1982, while living in LA, I went to see America at a newest concert place in town - Irvine Meadows Amphitheatre. It seated about 8,000 and a few thousand more seats were GenAdm. It was a long hike from the parking lot up a driveway-like hill to the entrance gates.

I'm hiking up this hill and I have to move over for this black Porsche with personalized California license plate. Any guesses who it was?

Re: off nite.
After literally thousands of performances that is what is so amazing, GERRY & DEWEY's consistency, at such a high quality, high energy level. That has & continues to amaze me, they are truly having so much fun but also display unbelievably well disciplined work ethics. AMERICA is on a lifetime tour !

Jeepers, Kevin, I was starting to worry! ...back to reading your review now...
Welcome Back!
tt

Kevin, thanks for the review of the concert. I love reading about everyone's impressions. Has anyone ever seen Gerry and Dewey on an "off" night? Just wondering. I've only seen them 4 times (pales to your 30, Kevin) but each one was awesome.

Well, I just got back home from nearly a week in New York. Took the train down to Philly and drove to Lancaster, where I met truthsaint and frosty paws. Two really nice people. The train from NY to Philadelphia is perhaps the most depressing scenery I've ever seen. Is everything in Trenton boarded up, burnt out and out of business? Anyway, truthsaint already gave you the scoop on the Lancaster show. It was truly amazing. As reported, Gerry mentioned the guys had played on the Texas/Mexico border the night before, then took a small single-engine plane to Houston, where, after just a couple hours of sleep, they caught a plane to Philadelphia and drove to Lancaster. All in all, they sounded wonderful. Highlights for me were Ventura Highway (it still has all the electricity it's ever had), hearing I Need You performed on acoustic guitar instead of piano, hearing Wheels Are Turning live, hearing Never Be Lonely, and meeting Dewey and Gerry afterwards, getting my picture taken with them, and getting an autograph. Maureen, I got Dewey and Gerry to autograph two tickets, one for me, one for you for your kind offer of the VH1 tape. I'll drop it in the mail if you want it. While I didn't ask Gerry about a new single, I've figured all along it would be Moment To Moment, even after that song got clobbered 85% to 15% by Wednesday Morning on the Fan Page song survey. I assumed then just as I do now that the song survey was a ruse and the record company had made up its mind already. I've got to say, though, that Moment To Moment sounds absolutely wonderful live. Much better live than on record. Much more life and energy. Two other notes from the Lancaster show. Gerry had the best line of the night when he said, "I just found out the T-shirt guy just bought a Porche. We've been doing this for nearly 30 years and the T=shirt guy has a Porche. What's wrong with this picture." He needled the T-shirt guy all night about that. Also, I've seen America nearly 30 times in concert and I have to say this is the mo st fun I've seen Dewey have in a long, long time. He was truly into it. You could tell he was having fun, very relaxed and animated.

Oh well, all in all it was well worth the long road trip to see them. I will see them again here in Dallas in June. Welcome to Dallas, Shayne. And I have autographed copy 76 of 500 of Van Go Gan.

Take care,

KevinS.

AMERICA's Management attempts to sell at every show if possible. However, two big factors play a huge role:

1) Feasibility w/the venue, sometimes yes, sometimes no.

2) Availibility of their merchandise person.

Hope you run into the merch. at the Knoxville show.

On March 4th, Rob posted that the boys would be playing at the warner theatre in torrington, ct. Does anyone know where about the theatre is? driven through torrington on rt. 8. appreciate any help.

I would appreciate it if anyone out there in America land could answer the following question. Are t-shirts, hats and other memorabilia going to be available at the America concert in Knoxville. I went to the America concert in Cincinnati and they were not available. I have sworn off plastic money and would like to get some of the merchandise and I was hoping it would be available at the concerts. Please advise. Thanks

Love that snow, ready to ski the weekend. Great spring skiing for the rest of March.

I hope everyone on the east coast is enjoying the snow - wish I was there! (no, I'm not being sarcastic!)

Hey all, tonight at 8PM (eastern time), According to
Message #5006, Where are they now with America will
air again. So for all those who missed it or want to
record it, now's your chance.!!!!

Hi there,
I was wondering how you know that Gerry is buying back some of his work. Do you know for sure that he will do it or did you hear it thru the grapevine ?,I hope that you are right this way we can all get a copy of VGG

Does anyone have an email address for America's booking agency / management? Thought it couldn't hurt to either enquire about dates in the pacific Northwest.

Great story, Maureen! Ger does seem to have a wicked sense of humor that way! Hey...send it back and ask him to alter his appearance for you (last year in Sparks, Ger thought it would be fun to alter his and Dew's pics in one of the local casino write-ups). Hey...whatever keeps those creative juices flowing...

Beech- I don't know why FIJI is on your copy - I want to know why it isn't on mine!! You must be special. But, we already knew that. (Very talented too.)
Sorry about the Coral Concert.
Leah

Sorry, #12 here....BUT does ANYONE have any idea why "FIJI" was signed underneath???? Did we finance a trip or something?

When you get to music from another Rm., click on "The latest single release, I Don't Wanna Know" ok, that's it!!!

When you get on his homepage click on "Music from another room"

Hey America Buddies!
Seen Julian Lennon (John's son) on Leno last night, so I thought I would see if he had a homepage, well, he does!
Found out he's doing a cover version of AMERICA'S "I Need You"
Should be interesting.....www.julianlennon.com
SEE YA!

Just thought I'd share.....
When I got the call from a fellow America fan/friend to send a check and a little note Gallin-Morey regarding the purchase of VGG, I also asked Gallin-Morey and/or Gerry if they could include an authograhed picture, so when I recieved my CD, it was signed by Gerry, and numbered, too, and a BIG arrow pointing up to his face with the word "Me" on it. I guess that was my autogrpahed picture!! Its very cute.

Hi Kevin,
Sorry we didn't get to meet when you where here in NYC. I did tape the vh-1 and have a copy for you. Do you want me to mail to you? Let me know. Take Care. Did you have fun in Lancaster? My husband Bob and I will be at the RI show next friday night. Can't wait to hear M2M live. See ya. Maureen.

John, got your e-mail. the money is in the mail. looking forward to hearing the cd. can't seem to get enough of gerry and dewey. thanks again.

Welcome back, Shayne. Next HN single will most likely be one of other 3 HN songs currently playing on tour. My guess is MTM. Mag

Matt...still giggling...hoping she and Ken spent the evening in the Dream House! Mag

Shayne, welcome back, we all missed you and your Dan Peek impersonations. What happened? Hope everything's okay, especially
with the little ones. As far as getting Hearts with Simple Life,
that's a Japanese import and they only might have the rights to do
that in Japan...Hey "All Things Are Possible",
Howard L

I hope then I'll finally be able to get the "Hearts" CD with "Simple Life" on it!!!

Jim...Erie, PA

Being "off-line" for so ong (and not wanting to scroll through a gazillion messages), what's the deal with a follow-up single? What else is news?

Shayne (still recovering from internet withdrawal)

Didja miss me?

think a live cd will ever come out of this current tour? i sure hope so.

"America" will be setting up a site that we can all go to and order any of they're CD's. One of them being VGG....can't tell you when this will happen, but you'll all be first in line to be informed !!

Flipping through the cable before and vh-1 had to start with there 48 hour marathon - behind the music weekend. just what i wanted to see. some dope smokin, booze drinkin rockers who made alot of money and spent it all on drugs and alcohol. Now their broke - to bad!!! Hey vh-1, do something nice and give us America fans an hour of behind the music and an hour of story tellers. Wouldn't that be great. I don't have a signed copy of van go gan but how do i know what number it is and still trying to find out how many copies were sold.

John, would like to order a copy of heard, if it's possible. need the info on what i have to do. thanks - Bones

I always thought it was the scent of aligator lizards(Something I am familiar with, a type of lizard native to these parts) Silly me. Isn't that the beauty of good lit like Dewey's songs? It stimulates all types of discussion!

Hey You people,

I'm the proud owner of copy 19/500 of Van Go Gan. I bought two others and gave them to family/friends but can't remember what numbers those had. So who out there has #1??

Peace,
Joe B

P.S. On the America aol folder Kyle Vincent left a note regarding his new CD (no release date yet) that Gerry sings some backing vocals on. Sounds cool!! Kyle is a fine musician and a nice guy. Keep an eye out for more info on the CD.

ROFLMAO!!!!!!

i would like to take a little time out to wish a very special person a very special 40th birthday.

Barbie, happy birthday to you.

mB
BluLight Studios

no way! my dad used to play with those guys too!

mB
BluLight Studios

John...have to laugh...had same sentiments and even remember said Sizzler!

Mags

Robyn: Yes, we West Coasters have learned that the hard way, lol. But, having tuned in that first night at 7 PM got me an hour special on The Doors, Lynyrd Skynyrd and Heart. No bad, not bad!

Mag

Hey all...

Was at my favorite little record shop today (excellent source for old vinyl and all new stuff, too. Replaced all America vinyl through this place). Anyway, what did Tom tell me? He had ordered a copy of Van Go Gan sometime mid/late last year for someone, they never called about it, so he put it into inventory and someone else just bought it yesterday.

Anyway, Tom at Vinyl Solution will tell me in a few days whether he thinks he can still obtain VGG from his source, and if so, I will post info about it. I know VGG recently became unavailable from all other sources, so this may not pan out either, but worth a shot.

Another good story: Jeff Larson was just in the store the other day, so Tom and I had good discussion about Jeff and his beautiful work, as well. Tom is selling the Horse With No Name video cd for ONLY $19.98 (as compared to almost $27 via Thoughtscape). Jeff himself picked up a copy.

That's all the news from the front for now

Mag

As the "only" UK based America Fan, I read the chat pages and concert schedule with great interest - waiting for the UK/Europe dates (I can dream....).

However, I am on vacation with my family later this month, visiting Florida and NYC. We get to see the New York Yankees on March 27th and the Beach Boys in Concert (Clearwater FLA) on March 28th. All I need to make the trip complete would be AMERICA

Paso Robles is in such a beautiful place. An hour from the ocean, nestled in some of the most beautiful rolling hills and lovely air on earth, it is the only place I can think of which has a five-story Sizzler. Just thought I'd share those thoughts.

john

I have 100 bucks. I need a Van Go Gan.
URGENT.......

HI PEOPLE I HAVE HEARD ABOUT AMERICA EVER SINCE I WAS A LITTLE KID SEE MY FATHER USE TO PLAY WITH IN THE BAND WITH AMERICA. ITS KIND OF WIERD SEEING PICTURES OF THESE GUYS IN WEB SITES AND ACTUALLY HAVING THE SAME PICTURES AT MY DADS HOUSE.IF ANY OF THE GUYS IN AMERICA ACTUALLY READ THIS E-MAIL ME LIKE TO KNOW A LITTLE HISTORY OF MY DAD AND YOU GUYS. I HAVE HEARD SOME REALLY INTERESTING STORIES. HE SAID THE LAST TIME HE SAW YOU GUYS WAS AT ATLANTA AT THE Z93 CLASSIC ROCK CONCERT I DIDNT GO BUT WISH I SHOULD HAVE. HE SPEAKS HIGHLY OF YOU GUYS AND THE TIMES YOU GUYS HAD,BY THE WAY HE STILL HAS HIS OLD GIBSON THAT HE USED BACK IN HIGHSCHOOL I PLAY IT EVERY ONCE IN A WHILE PREETY SWEET GUITAR.JUST WANTED TO STOP IN AND SAY HI TO THE GUYS WHO KNOW MY FATHER PROBALLY BETTER THAN I DO.KEEP ROCKING. THANKS FOR THE STORYS

Followed Howard's advice to friartuck.com - informative site. Looked for jamboreeinthehills.com - found that also!

I attended Jamboree in the Hills in 1981 with my family and future husband. It was a bluegrass/country festival, which had me wondering if they had changed the theme, since America would be there this year. Sure enough, it is still mainly country music. According to their web-posted schedule, America will be the closing band on Sunday. I'd be interested to know what tunes they're planning on performing.

For anyone planning on going down for the weekend - be sure to take ANYTHING you think you might need while you're there. There will surely be thousands of people in attendance, and the stores get emptied quickly. The year we were there, it was blue-blazes hot, Dad and Wayne ran out of beer, walked 3 miles to the only store with beer, & paid over $10 for a six-pack of the "worst beer on this earth"(their words)!

We had a great week-end that year - if you go,have fun!

Thanks, Steve. I'll check it out.

Hi all,
I have number 60/500 on the VGG.

John, here is a link for the California Mid-State Fair. The web site will be updated early this spring with all of the information you should need. As for Paso Robles, it is near the coast of California about half way between Los Angeles and San Francisco. You can go to Microsoft's Expedia Maps and type in the address to see where it is on the map and it will even give you driving directions to get there from anywhere else. The address of the fair is 2198 Riverside Avenue, Paso Robles, CA 93446 (you'll need to type that in to find it on the map and to get driving directions). Good luck!

My American Geography is somewhat lacking. I haven't seen any Vancouver BC dates on the concert schedule, yet. Still hoping. But I am probably heading down to visit my brother outside of Los Angeles in early August and I see that America is scheduled to play August 5 at the California Mid-State Fair in Paso Robles. Where is this? Anybody know this event. Being a state fair I can assume that I could take my 5 and 6 year old to the show? thanks in advance for any help you can give this canuck.

Thanks a lot Howard.

Thanks for the note Mags! Good to see you back in this folder.

Nellie

Pete, go to WWW.FRIARTUCK.COM, it'll give you directions and destination. I've been checking it out myself. Howard L

Maureen, do you know where this friar tuck place is. I here its somewhere in the catskills. I believe its much closer for me than Tags, Big flats. Funny names would'nt you say.

The answer to this question is Di Farrelly, an aquaintance of Gerry's mother, is the woman who says "Hello, Gerry" on VGG.

Thanks, Steve, for updating the concert schedule. I've been checking Humphrey's website every day, waiting for them to list their '99 schedule. It's still not up.
But I can't believe it. The date they're coming to Humphrey's in August, my husband and I are committed to a meeting up in the L.A. area! ARGHHHHHHH! They are playing in San Juan Capistrano the next night, two shows. To console myself, I just might have to go to both those shows! We'll be up in that area already, and our meeting should be done in plenty of time. Now to convince my husband....
ShariL <><

If Vh-1 lists a show for 10:00 it is 10:00 regardless of where you are in time zone land. so 10:00 eastern is NOT 7:00 pacific. Hope that makes sense to you all!!!!

someone had gave me a copy of the America Central Park
Concert 1979 in NYC on video...Excellent concert, timeless classic to
own. You can watch this over and over and over...hl

Nellie!!! Long time no talk to you. Yes...all this does sound possible! Enjoy that 4th of July show!

Steve:

Thank goodness for technology. I too bought laserdisc last summer, not having a darn idea how I was gonna watch it shy of purchasing a unit. Lucky enough to have had it converted to VHS. It is a phenomonal performance and reminds that we NEED another live concert video. Those wishing to order, check Steve's links. Believe I got mine from cdnow or Thoughtscape.

Steve:

Whooooppppeeeeee!!! Keeping fingers crossed for you...

Mag

What do they say about things hapenning in three's. First, my team (hockey) recieves a bid for the NCAA Div 111 hockey tourney. Second, I find out today that America is playing in Duluth MN two miles from my house on the fourth of July. I can only hope that the third thing is a win this weekend and a trip to the final four. Does all af this sound possible?

Thanks for the information Maureen, I live about 40 miles west of Albany,a small town called Johnstown. I believe Friar tuck is closer than Elmira. What ever one is closer I would go.

I was lucky enough to get a copy of this laser disk show burned to
CD. Includes great Live performances of rarely performed tunes like
"Only game in town","Foolin'" and "all night"(All from the "Silent letter" CD) and also includes "Here" from the first LP. This show
is a rarity and I'm not sure if the video is still in print. It originally came out in 1979 and runs about an hour.

Hi Pete,
I just went onto Map Quest and typed in Big Flats. Big Flats is 12 north of Elmira, NY. Way up there. Are you near there? Are you going to Friar Tuck? Let me know. Maureen.

JUST NOTICED THE CHANGES TO THE HUMAN NATURE TOUR. WHAT ABOUT NY / NJ AREAS?? WHY NOT?? VERY, VERY UNHAPPY !!

I'm from upstate NY, I see there is a concert at Tags, Big flats NY. Does anyone know where this place is located.

don't have a signed copy but was wondering how many copies of van go gan were sold. glad to see it's coming back in print.

I have spent much of the night going over the latest concert schedule so I could make the web site as current as possible. There have been quite a few additions so be sure to check it out to see if they're coming to a place near you. While you're at it, if you're aware of a web page for the venue or show where they're playing, please e-mail it to me so I can add the link to the concert list.

Now, for my exciting news. As I was going over the schedule I found that the guys are coming to Park City on June 9. Park City is only an hour drive for me and it's a beautiful place to be in June (of course, skiers like it better in January). I was elated to think that I WILL be able to see the guys after all this year. Then I went through the August concerts and when I flipped over to the September concerts I couldn't believe my eyes. They are scheduled to play at the Scera Shell Outdoor Theater on September 4 in Orem, Utah -- only a few blocks away from my house!! The Scera Shell is a very fun place to attend a concert and I'm really looking forward to it. The seating is first come first serve which means I'll have to get there early to get a good seat. But who knows, maybe the guys will stop by my house on the way there and pick me up (LOL!!!).

One word of caution. The schedule is always subject to change so don't get upset if the concert near you gets cancelled for some reason. Last year the guys were scheduled for the Scera Shell and then it was cancelled so I'm hoping that doesn't happen again this year.

Can hardly wait...any idea when & where it will be available?

Steve, any luck with getting the tour t-shirts etc. available to this group? Thanks

No luck yet. I'm waiting to hear back from the people who actually sell the merchandise. I simply offered to give them a page where they can sell the stuff. I don't want to get involved with taking orders, collecting money, delivery, etc. I'll be sure to let everyone know as soon as I hear something.

I have number 84.

By the time I figured out what this "Net" thing was and then figured out how to send a damned message, Rick was all sold out of the signed copies. (you know, come to think of it I DO think it was the first e-mail I ever sent) Still got VGG before they went out of print, luckily. I think I'll just write 501 on mine. Hey, I can pretend. It's mine.
Steve, any luck with getting the tour t-shirts etc. available to this group? Thanks

I'm in the process of updating the schedule tonight. The Lincoln and Omaha concerts are benefit concerts to help the fire fighters in the area (the same goes for the Des Moines, St. Louis, Rockford, and Cedar Rapids concerts). I've received ticket information for a couple of those cities but not the rest. I would suggest that you check with the Firefighters Association in the area and see if they can help out. Good luck!

There were 500 original copies of "Van go Gan" signed by Gerry via
the internet web site--rick's old site. My copy is #45 of 500 and is
clearly noted in black Pen on the right side of the CD. Would be fun
to know who got #'s 1 and 500!

where is the number located on the disc? the only numbers i can read and that is in english is: 95.9.25 (95.9.1) or on the insert pscw-5317

Thats an excellent question! I was also curious about the 500 autographed and numbered copies - such as who has what number? Where is number 1? Where is number 500? Number 250?
I have number 17 - (I think)
Leah

would you happen to know how many copies of Van-Go-Gan were sold?
Bought it as soon as i heard it was coming out. Didn't care what it cost. Favorite line on cd is in Van Go Gan: as i lie in my bed at night, i see my lifeline erode. classic gerry

Could someone help me out on how to get tickets to these two shows? The ticket agencies seem to know nothing about them.

Hi John! Glad to hear you are back up and running! Know everyone will enjoy Heard as much as those of us who ordered pre-holiday snafu. Thank you, once again, for making it available.

Mags

Mark...wouldn't that be great? Pull out all the stops and have a long, rare acoustic set. Someday, someday...

Mags

Regarding the Heard CDs, the snafu caused by the holiday mechanical meltdown is being ironed out. Everyone who has sent payment for the Heard CD will get their orders within the next week, some may have already received their CDs by now. To everyone, I apologize for the trouble, but when a machine goes down during Christmas season and needs to be sent out via mail, that can pose problems. Please email me for more info on the CD or any other questions you may have.

john

This is a true America Trivia Question for the real hard-core fans.

Regarding Gerry's solo CD.....please be patient.....Gerry will be buying the rights back to "HIS" VGG very soon. Then you can all have the GENUINE, AUTHENTIC, ORIGINAL, CONCRETE, not to mentioin "CREATIVE" material !!!

YES !!!! THE GUITAR WORK IN THIS SONG IS AWESOME....NOT TO MENTION GERRY'S low VOICE !!!!

>While I agree that Heard is a must have for America fans, how have others who own it found the quality? Mine is really "grainy" , "Fuzzy", etc. Everytime I listen to it I say to myself "If only..." <

Heard is a "bootleg" CD and most of the songs were made from a tape somebody in the audience made during their live shows. While the sound quality is lacking, if it weren't for Heard, most America fans never would have Heard those rare America songs. So I figure it is better to have Heard a fuzzy America song than to have never Heard it at all.

BTW, I wonder if the guys still know some of those old songs? Wouldn't it be great to hear them preform "Look Up, Look Down" and "Ain't It A Shame" in concert now?

While I agree that Heard is a must have for America fans, how have others who own it found the quality? Mine is really "grainy" , "Fuzzy", etc. Everytime I listen to it I say to myself "If only..."

The Heard CD was a concert in Holland. And the Dan Peek 2 songs:
Twist and Shout is live, last song in the concert and American Dream
is a studio cut, so out of pure guessing, means that this song/demos is part of some LP or collection?????????????????????? Would love to find out and know???? And would love to ask Gerry/Dewey if those rare songs were written by them? Well we know Coming Into Los Angeles was written by Arlo Guthrie, so that's one down and how many to go? hl

we were treated to a super show in lancaster , pa. the guys played a long show after playing in houston the nite before! gerry was as usual at the top of his game and added "moment to moment" ! dewey was really into the nite also with "three roses". it made for a perfect evening! also enjoyed the chat with ken landerman in the lobby! thanks

Three Roses sounds awesome...the whole CD is really great, and will definitely be worth the wait!
Erin :o)

how good does three roses sound? one of my favorites. still waiting to hear from john so i can order it.

Heard is great...especially "Look Up, Look Down".

Erin :o)

After watching where are they now on VH-1, i realized three things. 1) i waited all day with great anticipation to see the story on america. It was to short, wish it was atleast another 10 minutes longer. Who really cares where jethro tull is right now. 2) After seeing the early pictures of america, i realized how old i really must be getting and, 3) gerry and myself are losing hair in the same place. Already e-mailed vh-1 and will send one each day. hope to see behind the music special and then 1 hour of story tellers. I don't know about you america fans but i'm still hoping for a live cd from this current tour after it is over. Still waiting to hear from john corbett about the heard cd. if anyone knows john, i'm trying to find out how long a wait is there to get the cd. thanx

Johnny: John Corbett had an article printed that outlined Heard (Steve...didn't I remember seeing this in your database album reviews?). Anyway, the majority of 1st ten tracks were taken from '72-'73. Some of non-album tracks most likely from a radio show in Europe, pre-first U.S. Tour. Look Up, Look Down, The Winter Of Our Love and Living Isn't Really Giving are fabulous as "early America" sound. Two tracks are from a '86 Dan Peek concert. One song is from an 80s Christmas compilation. Some songs, i.e. Arlo Guthrie's Coming Into Los Angeles apparently received fairly regular concert exposure before America developed it's own repertoire. Hope this helps, at all.

Mags

Bones...I second what Steve says...a must-have. Sound quality not the best, but thanks much to John Corbett for making available...some rare tracks, indeed!

Mag

After watching where are they now on VH-1, i realized three things. 1) i waited all day with great anticipation to see the story on america. It was to short, wish it was atleast another 10 minutes longer. Who really cares where jethro tull is right now. 2) After seeing the early pictures of america, i realized how old i really must be getting and, 3) gerry and myself are losing hair in the same place. Already e-mailed vh-1 and will send one each day. hope to see behind the music special and then 1 hour of story tellers. I don't know about you america fans but i'm still hoping for a live cd from this current tour after it is over. Still waiting to hear from john corbett about the heard cd. if anyone knows john, i'm trying to find out how long a wait is there to get the cd. thanx

Nada-
Great Link!
Thanks for sharing it.
leah

A link to the Australia coverage for human nature...
http://www.twa.com.au/ARTISTS/america/amr-intro.html

Most of the Heard songs were recorded live in Holland around new years 1972. A few of the songs were recorded during a 1986 Dan Peek concert.

I sent my thank you e-mail to VH1 this morning for having America on their show. Anyone else who enjoyed the show may want to send them a message as well. This may lead to more America on VH1 in the future. :)

Truthsaint: really enjoyed your post regarding the Lancaster show. Wish I were there.

I appreciate everyone asking me what Gerry Beckley said would be the next single. I truly don't want to sound like a tease, but I don't want to burst the Oxygen bubble; the announcement should come from them. So Karen D, when you see this, please let me know if you'd like me to be more forthcoming. Still, if y'all E mail me, I'll let you know. I'll probably post a few more comments about the concert on Monday, after I've had more time to soak it all in.

The e-mail address you're looking for is Shows@vh1.com. Be sure to put "Where Are They Now" in the subject area. If you'd like to see more of America on VH-1, the address is Request@vh1.com .

What did you think of the show? It'll be on again in 10 minutes! My husband has our three boys out on dirtbikes, so I have the house to myself - maybe I'll hear the entire thing this time!

Michelle

Latiff, I was typing the answer as you were giving "She's Gone". Right, you are!

Latiff, "Sarah" is a great guess for the Hall & Oats and AMERICA song with the same title. H&O's song is actually "Sara Smile". The song that I was thinking of was "She's Gone" which is also known to AMERICA fans as that or "Now She's Gone". It depends on if you're reading the album label or album cover as you probably know.

Sorry Bones, I don't know the VH-1 site address. Someone posted it not too many posts back.

Truthsaint, thanks for the report. DO WE WANT TO KNOW THE NEXT SINGLE???? Do fish swim, do birds fly, are Gerry and Dewey and the band great? YES, PLEASE! Don't tease us like that. We may have to resort to violence. Since the song tourney was down to either "Moment To Moment" and "Wednesday Morning", it must be M2M, right?

"Heard" is very interesting to say the least. It's AMERICA unplugged....wonderful. "Three Roses" is fantastic as are many of the other songs. Does anyone know what time period these "Heard" song were recorded? Was it before their first album? I ordered my copy from John Corbett about two months ago and just received it several weeks back. So as Steve L. said, John's backlogged but he'll get to each person as soon as he can.

oops... i meant is it "She's Gone"?

Help!!!! does anyone know the e-mail address of VH-1?

Joe -
Thank-you! I have forwarded your post to our Department of Tourism and your check is in the mail!
Best wishes,
Leah

Anyone who is interested in attending the America engagement in Wichita, KS on May 26 can get tickets by contacting the Wichita Fraternal Order of Police at (316) 683-2800. Tickets are $15. Seats are first come first serve at the Century II center in Wichita.

sounds like they really rocked the house. what a set. would love to see a live cd come out of this tour. Riverside and 3 roses must of sounded great. Two of my favorites. Saw them around or five years ago when they played at the norwalk oster fest. Had a chance to meet them, signed a couple of cd's and took pictures. nice people.

Is It "Sarah"?

Thanks for the report, truthsaint.
That's our AMERICA !! On the go, but not b/4 putting out 110%.

My fellow friends, I write this with my heart still palpitating and my voice hoarse from attending a phenominal concert by America tonight in Lancaster, PA. I can only say we need new adjectives to describe how absolutley wonderful it was. First, the set was as follows:
Riverside
Ventura Highway
You Can Do Magic
Don't Cross The River
Daisy Jane
Mirror To Mirror
Another Try
Moment To Moment
3 Roses
I Need You
Pages
Wheels Are Turning
Tin Man
Woman Tonight
Only In Your Heart
California Dreamin'
Lonely People
From A Moving Train
Never Be Lonely
Sandman
Sister Golden Hair
and for the encore, Horse With No Name

They played at the two-year-old American Music Theater, which should hold 1600 people, but, sorry to inform you, was only half-full. The theater itself is very state of the art. The crowd, as you would expect, mainly 40-ish. It started fairly laid back, then the audience's intensity slowly grew throughout the 22 song set. I observed quite a few singing along with Gerry and Dewey. I was accompanied by my new friend 'Frosty Paws' (also of Hagerstown, who
kindly supplied some titles to a few songs I wasn't all that familiar with, and who I'll be eternally thankful to, for getting the tickets.) We were happy to meet Kevin from New York, who caught a train into the show.
Well, the songs were supberbly performed. We were surprised to hear Lonely People and Only In Your Heart. The boys did their best jamming on Sandman, really rocking the house. Dewey explained they only had a few hours sleep, flying in from a concert the night before in Texas, but you couldn't tell they were tired, for, true professionals they are, were really into it. After the show, Frosty and I waited at a
cold and windy side door location, for the possible 'meet and greet,'
and were eventually rewarded. Gerry and Dewey graciously signed Frosty's lps and cds, and my ticket stub, and posed patiently for pictures, although they were in a hurry. I must tell you, after seeing more than my share of concerts over the years, that America
is quite possibly the most underrated band in history. Complaints? The only merchandise for sale were t shorts and sweatshirts (hey, can we get them at discount thru this site?) No tapes were sold.
While talking with Gerry, I asked him about a new single, which he indeed named, and was one of the four played tonight from Human Nature. If you would like me to name it, later, let me know. Of course, I'll be glad to answer any questions via site, or e mail. For now, I can truly say that I can die happy! I haven't seen them in 20 years, and was in no way disappointed. Misters Bunnell & Beckly, and the rest of the band, thank you!

Bones, John Corbett is the one who created the Heard CD and he's the only one who has the master for it. Over the Christmas Holidays his CD burner went out and it took him quite a while to get it fixed. Now that he has it fixed he has a huge backlog of orders for the CD but he's doing his best to get caught up. I would encourage you to keep sending him mail messages and I'm sure he'll eventually respond. If you'd you'd prefer to have his snail-mail address so you can send him a letter, send me a mail message and I'll e-mail it to you (I don't want to post it here for obvious reasons).

Thanks for the info on where I could get a copy of The Star. Peace and God Bless

I've tried e-mailing John Corbett twice about this cd, have'nt heard anything back. Is this the only person who sells this cd. thanx,

Go to /america/song/song804.htm for the lyrics and ordering information.

Bones, go to /america/album/album91.htm for information on the Heard CD (including how to get it). It is a must-have for all true America Fans.

Has anyone listened to this? is it a cd or what and where can i get it? Appreciate any info. on this

Thanx for the information. Do appreciate it partner. Do u know the e-mail address of VH-1?

Just to remind fans....I'm working on a list of outside vocal projects that they guys have been involved with over the years. While some of the stuff can be viewed on www.allmusic.com,I want to post something on this site that'll give you fans easy access to finding out what exactly Gerry,Dewey & Dan have done outside of the group over the years. If you have anything you'd like to add,feel free to email me. when I'm done with my list I'll be sending it to Steve to post
on this site. What I'm working on will be great for "completists" looking to find those America rarities!

Peeks song "the Star" originally came off of the 1979 Christmas compilation LP called "On this Christmas night". It was his one lone contribution to the LP. If I'm not mistaken,I read that it was recently released on CD. Maybe some of the other fans on this site can tell you how to get it!

Agree with Robyn's opinions, too. I think it is also in eye of beholoder, as Jim suggests. I've also heard Dew refer to "alligator lizards in the air" being about pieces of discarded truck tires being kicked up by other passing vehicles (tire tread very "alligator-texture-like" and pieces of said "alligators" about the size of a lizard).

Mags

Matt...was thinking of the review I posted over a year ago on AOL folder/newsletter regarding the first album, that of which Three Roses received accolade of "possibly, one of finest songs ever written." Still stand behind the image invoked! Smiles guaranteed!!!

Mags

Absolutely, Joe...anything Jimmy Webb.

Mags

Jim...hey dude! Countdown to Reno. How long we have all debated Dewewy's storytelling. Avoided some "alligator lizards just today (pieces of truck tires being kicked up by other cars on the freeway). Bunnell IS the consummate storyteller.

Mags

What AMERICA song has the same song title as a Hall & Oats smash hit?

Bones, check Karen D's post #5006, I think it is. All showtimes mentioned are at Eastern time.

Wouldn't it be great if the last 15 seconds of wednesday morning was extended another 60 seconds or so. awesome sound of guitar at the end of the song.

Missed america on saturday morning. Was told there were going to be on at 10:00am. say rock and roll jep. If they are going to be on sunday at 6:00pm, is that eastern time or what. Need VH-1 e-mail address. Thanks

Robyn, I believe you're right about "the yellow racing dreamboats on California air". I had always thought it meant gorgeous airplanes or Southwest Airlines with their yellow and orange planes but that didn't make sense. Your opinion does. I agree with the dragonflies. It never was an issue for me. Someone recently posted the answer to what "alligator lizards in the air meant". She reported that Dewey said it was referring to cloud formations.

Leah I have onlydrivrn thur W Va. It is a beautiful state though!!! JK

oh. dewey. I see how it is...

"three roses were bought, with you in mind..."

that for me is probably one of the top 5 lines i have ever heard in a song.

mB
BluLight Studios

Could someone tell me on what CD or tape The Star was released on. I play that on the real audio every time I go to the sound archives.
Thanks Brad