Song of the month for January 1970
The Only Living Boy In New York by Simon And Garfunkel
The 1970s could hardly have made a more impressive start with the release of Simon and Garfunkel's farewell project, 'Bridge Over Troubled Water'. The album not surprisingly climbed to the summit of the American and British charts, assisted in no small way by the success of the title track in the singles listings. In truth, there are at least half a dozen songs which could have coped more than adequately in the hit parade. Chief among them is perhaps 'The Only Living Boy In New York'. This item was decorated by spectacular harmonies as Paul Simon takes centre stage on a composition that is quite breath-taking. The tune is undoubtedly a strong contender for the best album track of the 'seventies.

Song of the month for February 1970
Instant Karma by John Lennon
'Instant Karma' was instant by name and instant by nature as it was recorded and released in a mere three weeks. Remarkably, whilst this marvellous single proceeded into a lofty position in the Transatlantic charts, many folk still harboured the illusion that John Lennon was simply taking a little sabbatical from the Beatles. However, the success of Lennon's third solo single would have fortified his desire to obtain his 'divorce' from the Fab Four. The bespectacled one even appeared on 'Top Of The Pops' with his previously long hair cropped off - further signs of a soul desperately keen to break from his past and plot new territory. As for 'Instant Karma', it was another of those sing-along anthems that John Lennon turned into an art form.

Song of the month for March 1970
Young Gifted And Black by Bob And Marcia
'Young Gifted And Black' was the latest success story for Jamaica's Trojan Records. One half of the performing duo was Marcia Griffiths who would later provide harmonies as a member of Bob Marley's backing band, the I-Threes. She was assisted in this duet by the American, Bob Andy. The song's subject matter was unashamedly an anthem of black consciousness, exhorting young black people to step forth and embrace the changing world with pride and confidence. Whatever the worthy sentiments, the single was sufficiently enjoyable to attract record buyers of all races and colours, hence its lofty chart position.

Song of the month for April 1970
Back Home by The England World Cup Squad
It is peculiar to think that the England football team's World Cup 1970 rallying call should have been composed by a Scotsman (Bill Martin) and a Northern Irishman (Phil Coulter). Although the current world football champions were agonisingly evicted at the quarter-finals by West Germany, Bobby Moore and the rest of the squad found themselves reaching the summit of the singles chart. The trouble was that the success of this record prompted other football teams to subsequently cash in on their cup final appearances and irritatingly release their own signature tunes. Meanwhile, the celtic songwriting duo of Coulter and Martin would find further chart success when their material was performed by the likes of Elvis Presley and Slik.

Song of the month for May 1970
The Long And Winding Road by The Beatles
It is remarkable to think that Paul McCartney did not actually approve of the final released version of his own composition. Originally conceived as an acoustic piece, Macca's ballad was then given the 'Spector treatment', as North America's ace producer applied his trademark 'wall of sound', assisted by a 'heavenly choir'. The result was a monumental recording that climbed to the top of the American Billboard chart. Although amazingly not released in the United Kingdom as a single, this item was clearly one of the highlights of the Beatles' 'Let It Be' album which saw the light of day at the beginning of May.

Song of the month for June 1970
All Right Now by Free
Free's first hit single has stood the test of time as one of the most enduring of all rock anthems. The music is of the highest quality, notably the guitar work of the tragic Paul Kossoff. This monster hit also benefits from amusing lyrics delivered by the throaty singing of Paul Rodgers. Unfortunately for Free, the fabulous foursome were very young and consequently their immaturity ruined any possibility of stability and durability. As a result, the group peaked with their debut hit, even if some of their subsequent recordings were equally impressive.

Song of the month for July 1970
The Wonder Of You by Elvis Presley
In 1968 the King of rock and roll mercifully turned his back on his mediocre movie career and went back to basics, to do what he did best - performing. Over the next few years, the result was a spectacular return to form for Elvis which culminated in the American Number One, 'Suspicious Minds', and the United Kingdom chart-topper, 'The Wonder Of You'. Regrettably each hit would be the King's last chart-topper in his lifetime as personal excess and self abuse destroyed the promise that had flowed from the wondrous 'The Wonder Of You' live recording.

Song of the month for August 1970
Wild World by Jimmy Cliff
Sandwiched between the emergence of Desmond Dekker and the arrival of Bob Marley, Jimmy Cliff was Jamaica's latest singing sensation. 'Wild World' would propel Cliff into the British Top Ten, which he had previously visited a year earlier with the more positive 'Wonderful World, Beautiful People'. Just what led Cliff to travel from a 'wonderful world' to a 'wild world' in less than a year is open to question, although a clue may lie in an intervening hit, the majestic 'Vietnam'. Anyhow, 'Wild World' (written by Cat Stevens) was not so much a global critique as words of caution uttered to a former sweetheart.

Song of the month for September 1970
Ain't No Mountain High Enough by Diana Ross
Diana Ross took the bold step of casting off the umbilical cord of her supremely successful Supremes career in favour of a solo journey. This decision paid handsome dividends with the marvellous American Number One, 'Ain't No Mountain High Enough'. The British record-buying public however let themselves down by only helping this disco and love song crossover to a brief stay in the Top Ten. This romantic recording had previously surfaced on princess Diana's debut solo album which also contained the equally beautiful 'Reach Out And Touch (Somebody's Hand)'.

Song of the month for October 1970
Ride A White Swan by T.Rex
Although Tyrannosaurus Rex had been in existence for a few years, Marc Bolan was a virtual stranger to the singles chart. However, 'Ride A White Swan' would prove to be his 'road to Damascus moment' as he made the transition from cult hippy hero to glam rock star. The excellent 'Ride A White Swan' lingered in the British Top Ten for many weeks at the end of 1970 and the beginning of the following year. This smash hit was the first example of T. Rex's fusion of pop and rock. It worked like a charm, even if the likes of his former champion John Peel were less amused.

Song of the month for November 1970
Voodoo Chile by The Jimi Hendrix Experience
Two months after the premature death of arguably popular music's greatest guitarist, 'Voodoo Chile' (alternatively known as 'Slight Return') would provide Jimi Hendrix with a slight and hugely successful return to the British singles chart. This five-minute closing track to the 1968 'Electric Ladyland' double album must surely rate as one of the most unlikely of chart-toppers. It certainly showcased the guitar prowess of Hendrix. Incidentally, this rock song has absolutely nothing whatsoever to do with Chile!

Song of the month for December 1970
Layla by Derek And The Dominos
After the relative failure of his Blind Faith venture, Eric Clapton 'disguised' himself in Derek And The Dominos. This new combo's debut offering was entitled 'Layla And Other Assorted Love Songs', which was released in December, whereupon it failed mysteriously to make much of a splash in the album charts. Whilst 'Bell Bottom Blues' has a credible claim for being the best item on the album, pride of place must surely go to 'Layla'. With the considerable assistance of Duane Allman's guitar, Clapton reveals his intense yearning for 'Layla' (or his future wife Pattie Harrison, to be precise). If the track's first part is a perennial rock favourite, then part two's instrumental interplay between guitar, piano, and drums is simply out of this world.

1970's CONCERTS OF THE YEAR
Perhaps the first historic concert of the new decade was the farewell outing for Diana Ross and The Supremes, during which the audience were introduced to Miss Ross's replacement, Jean Terrell. Meanwhile on St.Valentine's Day, the Who cemented their reputation as a formidable live act with their performance at Leeds University, which would be thereafter immortalised on the 'Live At Leeds' album. The Rolling Stones too avoided a studio album, in favour of the live recordings of 'Get Yer Ya-Yas Out'. Gig of the year was arguably the Isle of Wight festival at the end of August. This now annual shindig featured the likes of the Doors and the Jimi Hendrix Experience (or 'Band of Gypsies'). However, within three weeks, the virtuoso guitarist would be dead, whilst Jim Morrison of the Doors would be going through life's departure lounge a mere ten months later.

1970's ALBUM OF THE YEAR: Led Zeppelin III by Led Zeppelin (released in October; reached No.1 in the UK)
The mighty Zep took the most peculiar step of retreating from their fearsome onslaught upon Californian five-star hotels in favour of some quality time in the depths of rural, north-west Wales. The fab four's self-imposed exile in the rustic setting of the hamlet of Bron-Y-Aur, in Snowdonia, would be commemorated in the jaunty track 'Bron-Y-Aur Stomp' which would surface in the group's third album. Yet again choosing to avoid an album title, Led Zeppelin proceeded to confuse fans and critics further still with several tracks which were a far cry from the heavy rock that had stamped its considerable presence upon the band's first two projects. The acoustic guitar was very much to the fore as Robert Plant and Jimmy Page indulged in their passion for folk music. 'Gallows Pole' is a case in point, whilst the item 'Friends' showcased the group's desire to extend into eastern music. The long player still possessed its moments of sonic mayhem, courtesy of 'Out On The Tiles' and the stirring curtain-raiser, 'Immigrant Song'. Pride of place perhaps goes to the epic blues of 'Since I've Been Loving You' which represents seven and a half minutes of a combo at the very peak of their artistic development. Sandwiched in between the towering giants of Led Zeppelin II and IV, the third offering has never quite received its due recognition, but it can make a strong case for being the outstanding album of 1970, even ahead of Simon And Garfunkel's 'Bridge Over Troubled Water'.

Song of the month for January 1971
My Sweet Lord by George Harrison (peak chart position:No.1)
He may have described himself as an economy-class Beatle, but the quiet one surpassed his former musical associates with the huge-selling 'My Sweet Lord'. This beautiful Hare Krishna anthem was a statement of George's own religious state of mind. It certainly struck a chord with many record-buyers who ensured that Harrison would land himself a Transatlantic chart-topper long before either Lennon or McCartney could even begin to emulate this accomplishment. The trouble was that the self-described 'dark horse' peaked with this single and its accompanying album, 'All Things Must Pass'. He never reached these heights again.

Song of the month for February 1971
Hot Love by T. Rex (peak chart position:No.1)
Following fast behind the huge success of 'Ride A White Swan', T. Rex scored the first of their four British chart-toppers with 'Hot Love'. This song appears to live in the shadow of its successor, 'Get It On', which is quite strange given that it originally sold more copies and spent longer at Number One (six weeks to be precise). Meanwhile Marc Bolan's previous followers were dismayed that he had swapped trippy lyrics in favor of "la la la la la la la", but his new teenage fan base were not complaining.

Song of the month for March 1971
Double Barrel by Dave And Ansil Collins (peak chart position:No.1)
'Double Barrel' was effectively an instrumental and not exactly the most likely song to reach the pop summit. It was yet another outpouring from Jamaica's very own hit factory, Trojan Records. This tune was expected to be another novelty hit from the Carribbean, but Dave and Ansil Collins demolished the likelihood of being one-hit wonders when they followed up with another Top Ten hit, the slightly similar, 'Monkey Spanner', which featured "the heavy heavy monster sound", which was later re-visited by Madness on 'One Step Beyond'.

Song of the month for April 1971
Can't You Hear Me Knocking by The Rolling Stones (album track)
'Can't You Hear Me Knocking' was far too long to be released as a single, but it was a key track on the 'Sticky Fingers' album, released in April 1971. Opinion is divided on the merits of this extended jam. Some Stones' 'purists' complain that the lads were getting much too self-indulgent. I however am firmly in the camp which hails this item as a delightful jazz-rock fusion which sets it apart from many other more typical Stones' recordings. Quite simply, the instrumental second half is a joy to behold, helped by the keyboards input of Billy Preston and the saxophonist Bobby Keyes.

Song of the month for May 1971
My Brother Jake by Free (peak chart position:No.4)
The consensus of opinion may be that their best single was 'All Right Now', but I have a slight preference for the Top Five hit, 'My Brother Jake', which was released in May of 1971. This tune is a far cry from the tongue-in-cheek humour of their biggest smash, as the subject matter is darker. Here Paul Rodgers is pleading to Jake to clean up his act and pull his life around. The song's message ought to have been heeded by young guitarist, Paul Kossoff, who died of a heart attack in 1976, another victim of rock and roll excess.

Song of the month for June 1971
Black And White by Greyhound (peak chart position:No.6)
Jamiaca's Greyhound helped themselves to a Top Ten hit, courtesy of the standard 'Black And White', which was a well-intentioned appeal for inter-racial harmony. Not content with this hugely listenable tune, the act found further success with their own decent interpretation of 'Moon River' and the commendable 'I Am What I Am'. Here was another surprise triumph for the Caribbean's very own 'Motown' - Trojan Records.

Song of the month for July 1971
Let Your Yeah Be Yeah by The Pioneers (peak chart position:No.5)
Although the Pioneers are regarded as something of a reggae group, this marvellous single was more akin to Motown or soul. Written by new Jamaican superstar Jimmy Cliff, 'Let Your Yeah Be Yeah' deserves to be credited as one of the great pop songs of all time, with its excellent vocal harmonies and brass accompaniment. It certainly sounds much different from the group's previous hit single, 'Long Shot Kick De Bucket'!

Song of the month for August 1971
It's Too Late by Carole King (peak chart position:No.6)
Taken from an album, 'Tapestry', which had already surfaced successfully back in the spring, this 'new release' made predictable progress into the British Top Ten, though Carole King's radio-friendly double A-side failed to match the chart-topping success it achieved in the United States. This sad song was further evidence of Carole King's songwriting gifts and it was a key ingredient on a massive-selling long player that took up a mere 300 weeks' residency in the American album charts.

Song of the month for September 1971
Maggie May by Rod Stewart (peak chart position: No.1)
The new release, 'Maggie May' announced the arrival of one of the 1970s' great institutions, Mr. Rod Stewart. Abandoning his footballing ambitions in favour of delivering from the mike stand, 'Rod The Mod' sang "it's late September and I really should be back at school". Instead of which he was located at the top of the British hit parade. Scotland's finest was joined on stage for a memorable 'Top Of The Pops' cameo by John Peel on mandolin, while the Brentford FC reject dribbled a football. Credit must also go to the Faces for their musical contribution. For three glorious October weeks, Rod and the Faces were Number One in British and American singles and album charts simultaneously, emulating Simon And Garfunkel's 'Bridge Over Troubled Water'.

Song of the month for October 1971
How Do You Sleep? by John Lennon (album track)
John Lennon's 'Imagine' album was first released in September in the United States before seeing the light of day in the United Kingdom in October, by which time the ex-Beatle was now a citizen of New York. 'How Do You Sleep' is not necessarily the long player's best song, but it is certainly the most noteworthy. After divorcing Cynthia, John found himself embroiled in another bitter divorce situation as he and Paul McCartney embarked on a war of words amidst legal proceedings. 'How Do You Sleep?' was a savage put-down of his songwriting partner and (former) friend, suggesting that "the only thing you've done was 'Yesterday'". Fortunately sanity eventually prevailed and diplomatic relations were restored between the two legends.

Song of the month for November 1971
Echoes by Pink Floyd (album track)
Arch-purveyors of progressive rock, the Floyd were always keen to stretch themselves by fleeing from the conventional format of three-minute songs in favour of something more daring. 'Echoes' followed 'Atom Heart Mother' as a track which lasted for a whole album side. It was risky, but it worked. Starting with a plucked piano, the song is a twenty-two minute nautical delight. At the conclusion, the music and the voices fade as if wandering off over the horizon - never to return. This item ought to find its way on to anyone's desert island disc collection, because its duration would be the equivalent of six or seven lesser songs.

Song of the month for December 1971
Theme From 'Shaft' by Isaac Hayes (peak chart position: No.4)
Performer of 'hot buttered soul', Isaac Hayes served up a treat with the outstanding theme to 'Shaft'. The song oozes sex appeal and is one of the coolest anthems to be delivered to the airwaves. Unfortunately, Hayes was never able to repeat this American chart-topper, but who can ever forget those strings and his spoken words? Nothing that the performer would subsequently record would ever stand any chance of a favorable comparison.

1971's CONCERTS OF THE YEAR
Led Zeppelin braved the deteriorating situation in Ulster to perform at the Ulster Hall in Belfast in March. The band took the opportunity to treat the audience to the first public performances of 'Black Dog' and 'Stairway To Heaven'. However, the most noteworthy concert of 1971 is undoubtedly the event organised by George Harrison to raise money for the famine-stricken citizens of the new state of Bangladesh. Held at Madison Square Garden in New York City, the ex-Beatle guitarist recruited such acts as Eric Clapton, Bob Dylan, Billy Preston, Ravi Shankar, and Ringo Starr who all made contributions to the gig, which was subsequently translated onto vinyl. To quote from 'The Song For Today' (by Jimmie Oliver) "this historic event [on August the 1st] was a prototype Live Aid, and it was the first notable occasion when performers from the rock and pop aristocracy assembled to raise funds for others less fortunate."

1971's ALBUM OF THE YEAR: Sticky Fingers by The Rolling Stones
(released in April; reached No.1 in the UK)
The landscape on Planet Stones had changed considerably since the issue of 'Let It Bleed' at the end of the 'sixties. For a start, the talented young Mick Taylor was now firmly ensconced in the role of guitarist, filling the void of the departed Brian Jones. Secondly, the Rolling Stones were now liberated from their contractual obligations to Decca Records and thus able to form their very own record label. Thirdly, these new rock aristocrats were now effectively tax exiles. However, one thing that did not change was the quality of their music. In fact, 'Sticky Fingers' is frequently hailed as the band's finest three-quarters of an hour, and it is hard not to agree. The album boasted the presence of the group's signature rocker, 'Brown Sugar', which dominated the charts on both sides of the Atlantic. The highlights however don't end there. The long player also contains such gems as 'Wild Horses', though much of the content dwells on drugs, pain, and vulnerability, as typified on 'Sister Morphine', 'I Got The Blues', and the magnificent 'Moonlight Mile', so the project is hardly overflowing with joie de vivre. Whatever the negativity of such items as 'Bitch', the album with the Andy Warhol-inspired cover met with the royal seal of approval from fans and critics alike.

The song of the month for January 1972
Let's Stay Together by Al Green (peak chart position: No.7)
Perhaps immortalised from its inclusion on the 'Pulp Fiction' movie, Al Green's magnificent love song, decorated by an excellent horns section, deservedly climbed to the top of the tree in the Billboard singles list. British record-buyers were slightly less appreciative, but few observers and listeners three decades later can argue that this is perhaps the greatest soul recording to emerge from North America in the 1970s.

The song of the month for February 1972
Without You by Nilsson (peak chart position: No.1)
This tearjerker is steeped in tragedy.The composer, Pete Ham (from the group Badfinger) took his own life a few years later, whilst the singer Harry Nilsson also died rather prematurely in the mid-1990s after his hard living caught up with him. Nevertheless, this 'bad luck charm' proved to be one of the most successful sad songs of all time, as it proceeded to sit on the top perch of the charts on both sides of the Atlantic Ocean.

The song of the month for March 1972
Smoke On The Water by Deep Purple (peak chart position: No.21 in 1977)
This album track from the newly-released 'Machine Head' never featured prominently in the hit parade, but it unquestionably rates as one of the great rock songs of the twentieth century. Recounting the story of their appearance at Montreux where the casino was wrecked by a fire, Deep Purple treat the listener to one of the greatest instrumental breaks in popular music as well as a memorable intro. Some songs are just too good for the charts, and this rock milestone was clearly one of them.

The song of the month for April 1972
Amazing Grace by The Royal Scots Dragoon Guards (peak chart position: No.1)
It was certainly one of the most unexpected of chart-toppers, but an instrumental version of the Christian hymn, 'Amazing Grace', dominated the British hit parade throughout the spring of 1972. Five weeks at Number One and a mere 27 weeks on the singles chart tells its own story. Long before the likes of the Bay City Rollers and Rod Stewart popularized tartan fashion, the Pipes And Drums Of The Military Band Of The Royal Scots Dragoon Guards got there first!

The song of the month for May 1972
Happy by The Rolling Stones (album track)
After the critical success of 'Sticky Fingers', the Fab Five delivered an hour of music in a similarly murky vein that would comprise the 'Exile On Main St.' album. Whilst many of the songs were a bit seedy, there were a few rays of light. One such item was 'Happy' in which Keef has another bash at lead vocals, having previously sang 'You Got The Silver' on the 'Let It Bleed' project. Richards was singing "I need your love to keep me happy", but if this was directed at his partner, Anita Pallenberg, it would be closer to the truth to suggest that they had a mutual suicide pact, given their dangerous flirtation with hard drugs.

The song of the month for June 1972
American Trilogy by Elvis Presley (peak chart position: No.8)
As the 1970s unfolded, the behaviour and performances of Elvis Presley became increasingly erratic. However, what was good was exceptionally good. The King's rendition of an 'American Trilogy' simply takes the breath away and helps to explain why this 'has-been' remained one of the greatest live attractions. Sourcing 'Dixieland', 'All My Trials', and 'The Battle Hymn Of The Republic', Elvis sings straight from the depths of his soul. Only the coldest heart could fail to be moved or impressed by four and a half minutes of this emotional piece.

The song of the month for July 1972
All The Young Dudes by Mott The Hoople (peak chart position: No.3)
Flavour of the month David Bowie stepped in to rescue the flagging career of Mott The Hoople by offering a composition of his own which he then produced for the combo. Not content with this, he weighed in with backing vocals. The group for their part rose to the challenge with a landmark rock song which opens wonderfully and goes from strength to strength, culminating in a formidable arms-swaying outro, during which Ian Hunter ad-libs "Hey you with the glasses/ I want you/ I want you up at the front." They just don't make them like this anymore.

The song of the month for August 1972
Virginia Plain by Roxy Music (peak chart position: No.4)
Former teacher Bryan Ferry joined forces all too briefly with Brian Eno as their new combo Roxy Music were at the forefront of art rock. The new act hit the ground running with the marvel that was 'Virginia Plain' which ought to be short-listed for the best debut single of all time. The song possesses a plethora of amusing lyrics featuring "you're so chic/teenage rebel of the week" with references to flamingos, a studebaker, and a roller-coaster ride. What a pity that Eno subsequently jumped ship, but the rest of the crew coped more than adequately in his subsequent absence.

The song of the month for September 1972
Mouldy Old Dough by Lieutenant Pigeon (peak chart position: No.1)
British record-purchasers have always been logic-defying suckers for novelty records, and good old Lieutenant Pigeon stepped forth with the mother of all novelty singles. Featuring a marching drum,a flute, and a fabulous piano contribution, this home-made recording stomped to the top of the UK charts. It was the kind of record that would have driven music critics to distraction, but I do confess to a liking for this bizarre smash hit.

The song of the month for October 1972
Clair by Gilbert O'Sullivan (peak chart position: No.1)
Gilbert O'Sullivan was a prolific hit-maker in the early 'seventies. His finest four minutes are almost certainly 'Clair'. I have an ambiguous attitude to this chart-topper. On a purely naive level, this is a sweet piece with beautiful strings music, but in the changed times of the twenty-first century it is doubtful whether O'Sullivan would get away with a song in which his intense affection for his niece Clair is perhaps questionable: "Nothing means more to me than hearing you say I'm going to marry you/ Will you marry me, Uncle Ray?"

The song of the month for November 1972
Long Haired Lover From Liverpool by Little Jimmy Osmond (peak chart position: No.1)
Having allowed the likes of Rolf Harris, Clive Dunn, and Benny Hill to reach Number One, it was hardly surprising that Britain's record-buyers were bowled over by Little Jimmy Osmond's delightful little ditty. It was perhaps fitting that the year of Osmond mania should finish with the youngest of their clan sitting on the top chart perch. In one crazy December week, the Osmonds and their rivals in the Jackson family were responsible for no fewer than five of the UK Top Ten singles. Little Jimmy himself was only nine years of age and thus made history as the youngest act to perform a British chart-topper!

The song of the month for December 1972
The Jean Genie by David Bowie (peak chart position: No.2)
David Bowie followed his friend Marc Bolan down the path of re-inventing himself from previous mod and then hippie into a fictional glam rock star, Ziggy Stardust. Bowie's very own version of glam rock was critically better received than the less arty offerings from the likes of Slade and the Sweet. Ironically, Bowie's great rocker, 'The Jean Genie' contained a fabulous riff from the great Mick Ronson which appeared to re-surface shortly afterwards on the Sweet's 'Block Buster'. Although 'The Jean Genie' didn't quite match the heights of the Sweet's effort, it remains one of the very best recordings from arguably the decade's most important act.

1972's CONCERTS OF THE YEAR
Whilst Ziggy Stardust and his Spiders From Mars were thrilling British concert-goers, Led Zeppelin and the Rolling Stones resumed their sonic onslaught of North America. Back in the United Kingdom, teenage audiences were in near hysteria at Marc Bolan and T. Rex, while Mr.Paul McCartney took his new band Wings out on the road as they traversed the university circuit, a far cry from Shea Stadium and Candlestick Park. McCartney's estranged musical partner, John Lennon, also took to the stage in his adopted home of New York, performing live for the first time in six years (an Apple rooftop appearance aside). Meanwhile in London an altogether different rock group, Pink Floyd, were introducing the assembled mass at Earl's Court to some new sounds which would later form the bedrock of 'The Dark Side Of The Moon', released a year later. The rest is history.

1972's ALBUM OF THE YEAR: Harvest by Neil Young
(released in February; reached No.1 in the UK)
Canada's Neil Young had emerged in recent years as one of the most respected singer-songwriters, both as a solo artist and in collaboration with Crosby, Stills, and Nash. His reputation was cemented by his appearance at Woodstock and further enhanced by the success of the 'After The Goldrush' album. Young's 'Harvest' project drew upon the assistance of his Stray Gators backing band as the singer veered off in the direction of country music as he attempted to follow the path of Gram Parsons in bringing country music to a rock audience. This big-selling long player is characterised by mellow music, though the theme is frequently one of loneliness, as illustrated on 'A Man Needs A Maid', 'Out On The Weekend', and 'Old Man'. Young actually recorded this cycle of songs from a wheelchair, as a result of a car accident. Whatever physical pain he was in perhaps doesn't compare with the emotional anguish he lays bare on 'The Needle And The Damage Done' as he sings of his departed guitarist Danny Whitten who was fighting a losing battle against heroin addiction. Harvest's massive commercial success was due in no small part to the fact that it contained 'Heart Of Gold' which provided Young with a rare presence amongst the higher echelons of the singles charts on both sides of the 'big pond'.

The song of the month for January 1974
All Of My Life by Diana Ross (peak chart position: No.9)
Diana Ross was proving to be as consistently successful as a solo artist as she had been in tandem with the Supremes. 'All Of My Life' may have only scraped into the British Top Ten, but it still ranks as one of her very finest love songs. Miss Ross then proceeded on to a couple of heavyweight collaborations with another American icon, Marvin Gaye, which yielded the excellent 'You Are Everything'. Regardless of the trends and fads which surfaced and then vanished, the recordings of Diana Ross remained constantly popular.

The song of the month for February 1974
Billy, Don't Be A Hero by Paper Lace (peak chart position: No.1)
This sad tale about a young soldier who ignored his fiancee's plea to keep his "pretty head low" also reached the American pop summit, but it was covered by Bo Donaldson and the Heywoods, who gave it an American Civil War setting. Even more strange was the fact that Paper Lace actually topped the Billboard singles chart later in the year with 'The Night Chicago Died'. This track will always be remembered for its military sound of a marching drum and an accompanying flute.

The song of the month for March 1974
Seasons In The Sun by Terry Jacks (peak chart position: No.1)
Following shortly after the tearjerker that was 'Billy Don't Be A Hero' was perhaps the saddest song of them all. Yes, in spite of the title, 'Seasons In The Sun' was far from sunny. Instead it is sung from the point of view of a person contemplating an imminent death who recalls past times when he had joy and fun and seasons in the sun. Tissue paper manufacturers must surely have been doing a good trade in the spring of this year. 'Seasons In The Sun' was so popular that it became the second biggest-selling single of the year.

The song of the month for April 1974
Waterloo by Abba (peak chart position: No.1)
Continental Europe had never provided artists who could enjoy a durable chart career in Britain or the United States, but all that was to change with the Abba invasion from Sweden, which began with the glorious 'Waterloo'. The two men and two women singing act had been a well-worn formula, but this time the two guys were highly capable composers, so the group simply stuck to their own admirable material. What was remarkable was that after the success of 'Waterloo', Abba struggled to find a decent follow-up for eighteen months until their flagging fortunes were rescued by an 'S.O.S.'.


The song of the month for May 1974
This Town Ain't Big Enough For Both Of Us by Sparks (peak chart position: No.2)
One of the great injustices in human history was the fact that the Rubettes kept this charming rocker off the Number One position in the British singles listing. Nevertheless, the Sparks had delivered one of the biggest music thrills of the year with this eccentric piece, underpinned by the sound of gunfire, a falsetto singing voice, not to mention the 'Hitler moustache' of the keyboardist Ron Mael. Any 'seventies compilation that overlooks this magnificent museum piece deserves itself to be overlooked.

The song of the month for June 1974
Rock Your Baby by George McCrae (peak chart position: No.1)
The British record-buyers were mercifully beginning to tire of glam rock and turned instead in increasing numbers to the genre of disco. The only drawback was that for a few years anything with the word 'disco' in the song title found its way onto the charts, regardless of its dubious quality. Nevertheless, there were clearly a number of giant dance-floor classics, of which 'Rock Your Baby' is most certainly one. George McCrae reaches the high notes here and is deservedly rewarded with a Number One on both sides of the Atlantic.

The song of the month for July 1974
Band On The Run by Wings (peak chart position: No.3)
The fertile imagination of Paul McCartney hit upon the crazy idea of fleeing to Africa to record an album there. The ensuing result of Macca's 'band on the run' was a long player that even the once scornful John Lennon approved of. Wings may have gone on to dwell at Number One for a staggering nine weeks with 'Mull Of Kintyre', but McCartney's jailbreak song represents his post-Beatles creative peak. The item switches cleverly between a wonderful acoustic guitar and electric guitar. Such is popular taste that McCartney has reached singles summits with songs that don't compare with the quality of this tune.

The song of the month for August 1974
Annie's Song by John Denver (peak chart position: No.1)
John Denver was no stranger to lofty chart positions in the United States, courtesy of the likes of 'Thank God I'm A Country Boy' but his only major British success story was the hugely listenable 'Annie's Song'. Here was one of those occasions when the adults closed ranks and purchased something which all the teenage record-buyers would not have warmed to. This delightful piece benefited from harmonies and a fine strings arrangement and re-appeared in the UK chart in 1978 when Irish flautist James Galway delivered his own version.

The song of the month for September 1974
Sad Sweet Dreamer by Sweet Sensation (peak chart position: No.1)
ITV's hugely popular 'Opportunity Knocks' was the breeding ground for many new acts in the world of showbusiness. One such instance was the emergence of the Sweet Sensation who were regarded as Britain's very own answer to the Jacksons. This young group never fulfilled the high expectations, which is all the more surprising since they made a majestic splash with the beautiful 'Sad Sweet Dreamer'. Here is another candidate for one of the best-ever pop songs. Yet again record-buyers were seduced by a sad, sweet composition.

The song of the month for October 1974
Killer Queen by Queen (peak chart position: No.2)
Queen carved out their very own niche on planet pop by shrewdly offering material that was more accessible than heavy metal and yet they were correctly labeled as a 'rock band'. They made an impressive start with the 'Seven Seas Of Rhye' and it was becoming apparent that they would be a prolific act when they then issued 'Killer Queen'. Failing narrowly to hit the Number One spot, this is an entertaining tale of a femme fatale, decorated with tongue-in-cheek lyrics while Brian May's guitar weighs in with its customary excellence.

The song of the month for November 1974
You Ain't Seen Nothing Yet by Bachman-Turner Overdrive (peak chart position: No.2)
This monumental rock song was one of Canadian music's finest moments. Taking its cue from 'All Right Now', the recording has amusing seduction lyrics. It certainly struck a chord with music aficionados on both sides of the 'big pond'. The item was later popularized by spoof disc jockeys 'Smashy' and 'Nicey' who were rather fond of it. The trouble for Randy Bachman and his team were that they will forever be remembered for this one song, but then when you record one of the great rock anthems, you only have yourself to blame.

The song of the month for December 1974
Help Me Make It Through The Night by John Holt (peak chart position: No.6)
Bob Marley was slowly beginning to emerge as one of the world's most important performers, but in the mean time a plethora of acts still took turns to fly the flag for Jamaican music. Stepping up to the mark for his four minutes of fame this time was John Holt, a renowned exponent of love songs in Caribbean circles. Holt expertly covered Kris Kristofferson's delightful song of seduction and eventually helped himself to a British Top Five position in early 1975. Both the vocals and the musical accompaniment were of the highest order.

1974's CONCERTS OF THE YEAR
The Beatles once insisted that they would not tour the United States until they had achieved a Stateside Number One. 'I Want To Hold Your Hand' resolved that potential impasse. Eleven years later, John Lennon made a similar pronouncement to his new buddy, Elton John. Lennon stated that he would not take to the stage unless his new disco release, 'Whatever Gets You Through The Night', should reach the top of the Billboard charts. To Lennon's astonishment, his new single did indeed climb to the American pop summit, whereupon he kept his word and joined Elton John on stage at Madison Square Garden in November where the two Johns (Elton and Lennon) performed versions of 'Lucy In The Sky With Diamonds' and 'I Saw Her Standing There', as well as Lennon's current US chart-topper. It would be the last time that one of the icons of popular music would sing live. Meanwhile, back in the spring, a different musical gathering at Brighton, on England's south coast, witnessed the birth of pop world's next 'big thing' when Sweden's Abba conquered the Eurovision Song Contest, en route to global domination in the ensuing seven years.

1974's ALBUM OF THE YEAR: Natty Dread by Bob Marley
(released in October; reached No.43 in the UK)
Robert Nesta Marley was entering new territory with his 'Natty Dread' recording, as his act was now billed as Bob Marley And The Wailers. The recent departure of his closest collaborators Bunny Livingstone and Peter Tosh to pursue their own solo paths had necessitated this new state of affairs. Bob recruited his wife Rita as well as singers Judy Mowatt and Marcia Griffiths to form the backing band, the I-Threes, whilst American blues guitarist Al Anderson was hired to assist the Barrett brothers who comprised the Wailers' rhythm section. The result was Marley's first breakthrough into the British album charts. The long player visited Marley's main concerns of inequality ('Them Belly Full') and oppression ('Rebel Music'). It also possessed the first outing of 'No Woman, No Cry', as well as a fans' favorite, 'Lively Up Yourself'. On the road to becoming reggae's first superstar and an ambassador for the Third World, Bob Marley was already setting out his stall with his musical anxieties about 'Babylon'. This isn't by any means his best album, but it was a signpost of what was to follow from Jamaica's most famous son who quickly became one of the most important recording stars of the 1970s.

The song of the month for January 1975
January by Pilot (peak chart position: No.1)
It was wholly appropriate that this song should be released in January and find itself in the upper echelons of the UK singles list before the month's end. Before long it was at the pop summit, which is not surprising as this radio-friendly light rocker couldn't fail to arouse the interest of pop aficionados. Unfortunately for Pilot, they could not navigate their next 2 singles into the British Top Thirty and thus any hopes of a durable pop career crash landed when January 'disappeared' in March.

The song of the month for February 1975
Number Nine Dream by John Lennon (peak chart position: No.23)
Released a few months previously on his 'Walls And Bridges' album, John Lennon's under-rated masterpiece made an all-too-brief appearance in the British singles chart in early 1975. With the help of Phil Spector, Lennon draws attention to the significance of the number 9 in his life. He was born on the ninth of October 1940 in the midst of a Luftwaffe air raid upon Liverpool. Fortunately the Luftwaffe missed Julia Lennon, or we would never have been treated to this piece which surely surpasses the hyped 'Imagine'.

The song of the month for March 1975
Honey by Bobby Goldsboro (peak chart position: No.2)
'Honey' had previously made its sweet presence felt back in the spring of 1968 when it fell agonisingly short of the Number One position. History actually repeated itself when this beautiful item again came close to the coveted top spot. As a consequence of these two chart runs, this popular single spent a total of 27 weeks in the British singles lists. It was clearly Bobby Goldsboro's most successful release. Regrettably, the folks 'back then' had a stronger preference for 'Bye Bye Baby' by the Bay City Rollers. Dear oh dear.

The song of the month for April 1975
Lovin' You by Minnie Riperton (peak chart position: No.2)
Loving this is easy 'cos it's beautiful. Minnie Riperton excels here with a vocal performance that takes the breath away. Aside from the notable singing, the song is remembered for the bird constantly chirping in the background. For all the incurable romantics for whom flowers and chocolates are the order of the day, this American chart-topper would have been essential listening. Tragically, Minnie Riperton passed away in July of 1979 at the age of 31, a victim of breast cancer. What a waste.

The song of the month for May 1975
I'm Not In Love by 10CC (peak chart position: No.1)
10CC had been among the most consistent hit-makers in the last few years, having previously climbed onto the UK singles summit with 'Rubber Bullets' in 1973. It therefore came as little surprise when they reached the pop heights again, though the material this time was radically different. 'I'm Not In Love' is a deliciously mellow recording which would have found favor with both young and old. It sounded considerably more mature and sophisticated than their previous Number One and it is undoubtedly one of the highlights of the 1970s.

The song of the month for June 1975
Tears On My Pillow by Johnny Nash (peak chart position: No.1)
American singer Johnny Nash had previously had an association with Bob Marley so it was hardly surprising that he should flirt with reggae music. Yet again the British singles-buyers were clearly feeling sorry for themselves as they took a shine to this tearjerker which enjoyed one week at the 'top of the pops'. This was the sixth time that a Nash release had invaded the UK Top Ten but hereafter the absence of any further successes would have been reason enough for more tears on his pillow.

The song of the month for July 1975
Barbados by Typically Tropical (peak chart position: No.1)
British music lovers engaged in a flight of fancy as they warmed on that hot summer to the sounds of 'Barbados' which nudged the Bay City Rollers off the Number One perch. The artists responsible were Typically Tropical who can lay a credible claim to having provided one of the best tunes from a 'one hit wonder'. The song includes a mock address from the airplane pilot at the start of the 'flight' as the singer shares his excitement at the prospect of traveling to the attractive island in the Caribbean.

The song of the month for August 1975
Sailing by Rod Stewart (peak chart position: No.1)
Not a year seemed to go by without Rod Stewart making his presence felt in the world of pop. This time he stepped forth with a song whose popularity probably eclipses his 'Maggie May' offering. This smash hit demonstrated his knack of sourcing a good song from elsewhere - in this instance from the Sutherland brothers. The musical accompaniment is first class as Rod sings from the heart. This is one of the few records that emerge in any era which retains its appeal through the march of time. Its sales figures speak for themselves.

The song of the month for September 1975
Shine On You Crazy Diamond Parts 1 to 5 by Pink Floyd (album track)
The album opener to the newly-released 'Wish You Were Here' represents the very best of the Floyd. It evolves in characteristically languid style with a fine contribution from Dave Gilmour's guitar. The 'hero' of the song, one Roger 'Syd' Barrett just happened to venture into the Abbey Road recording studios during its creation for a brief and typically bizarre reunion with his former 'colleagues'. Barrett explained to his horrified (former) friends that his overweight condition was due to the large pork chops that he had in his fridge - a crazy diamond indeed.

The song of the month for October 1975
Space Oddity by David Bowie (peak chart position: No.1)
It was indeed something of an oddity that David Bowie's first hit single from six years ago should land once more on planet pop and then soar into orbit - or to Number One to be precise. Such a success for the ever-changing Bowie was overdue, though this 'sixties artefact was a surprise package. Bowie had also previously tasted American charts glory in collaboration with John Lennon on 'Fame' and Bowie's own fame was enhanced by this 'new' success. Bowie remained a chart regular over the next few years in spite of a spiraling drug habit.

The song of the month for November 1975
Bohemian Rhapsody by Queen (peak chart position: No.1)
Freddie Mercury and his troops took the British charts by storm at the end of 1975 when 'Bohemian Rhapsody' took up a phenomenal nine-week residence at the top of the pop tree. Not since the 1950s had any single monopolised the lists to such an extent. It was widely accepted that the exposure of the song's video was a major factor in its success. The tune itself typified the eccentric brand of rock that Queen represented, with piano one moment and electric guitar the next, culminating in a gong being hit at the tune's conclusion. This was predictably the lead single from the 'A Night At The Opera' project which is only narrowly defeated by 'Wish You Were Here' for album of the year.

The song of the month for December 1975
Mamma Mia by Abba (peak chart position: No.1)
After the triumph of 'Waterloo', Sweden's finest foursome experienced a couple of false starts before their pop career resumed in earnest. It took the success of 'S.O.S' to indicate that Abba had more to offer than merely a 'one-hit wonder'. The next item in the Abba assembly line of smash hits was 'Mamma Mia'. This single mercifully relieved 'Bohemian Rhapsody' of its occupation of the British pop summit whilst laying the foundations for a year of world domination. The song (or at least its title) has since inspired both a musical and a popular film.

1975's CONCERTS OF THE YEAR
A new rock group called the Sex Pistols shocked audiences in London with an unprecedented display of amateurism and aggression that kick started punk rock in the United Kingdom. Punk was held aloft as the yoof generation's challenge to the rock dinosaurs who had taken live shows away from the intimacy of clubs and concert halls in favor of stadium venues. The biggest culprits were perhaps the Rolling Stones and Led Zeppelin. Both outfits were 'back by popular demand' in the United States as the former introduced their new team member, Ronnie Wood, whilst the latter were trying to market their acclaimed double album, 'Physical Graffiti'. After completing their tenth invasion of Uncle Sam's home, Zeppelin took Earls Court in west London by storm, with five gigs there in the spring. Punk rock and the new wave may have just been around the corner, but they would have to wait until the Zeppelin exited the stage. Meanwhile, Bob Marley and the Wailers entertained the assembled mass at the Lyceum in London, thereby confirming them as one of the hottest acts on planet pop. The accompanying live album provided Robert Nesta with another incursion into the UK album charts, whilst 'No Woman No Cry' (performed live) would be his first British hit single.

1975's ALBUM OF THE YEAR: Wish You Were Here by Pink Floyd
(released in September; reached No.1 in the UK)
After 'The Dark Side Of The Moon' began to accumulate record sales that were beyond anyone's wildest dreams, the Floyd became victims of their own success. Just how, after all, were they supposed to match or improve upon their 'dark moon' project? Indeed in many quarters, 'Wish You Were Here' was indeed viewed as a case of 'after the Lord Mayor's show', but it is held in high regard by most Pink Floyd aficionados. Once again the group (and Roger Waters in particular) were expressing their negative outlook of how society was evolving, or indeed deteriorating. 'Welcome To The Machine' was the obvious example of a band that was both world-weary and bored with the trappings of 'stardom'. 'Meanwhile 'Have A Cigar' (with lead vocals from Roy Harper) is a more amusing but ironic swipe at the music industry. The title track is simply an exquisite acoustic guitar track. The centre piece of the album is 'Shine On You Crazy Diamond', which is characteristically divided into nine 'parts'. It isn't so much a case of the foursome pining for the impossible return of the unhinged Syd Barrett, but more a case of the quartet offloading their guilt at jettisoning their former friend several years previously when he became something of an 'acid casualty'. 'Wish You Were Here' is not instantly likable, but it grows in appeal with every listen.

Impressum

Tag der Veröffentlichung: 03.01.2011

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