All this talk about happy birthdays has got me thinking about another great song for celebrating life … “Birthday” by The Beatles. Written in 1968, “Birthday” was released as a single by the band—becoming an instant favorite for millions of people. It’s even more energetic than the traditional tune “Happy Birthday.” And it features a 1950s

Let’s try a little exercise, shall we? Close your eyes and imagine a couple of musical instruments. Which ones come to mind? If you’re like most people, then you probably pictured a piano keyboard or guitar … you, know the two most popular instruments on the planet. But if you were thinking outside the box,

Today is a beautiful day, for a couple of reasons: It’s summer It’s Friday (… although every day is pretty cool) I just got Paul McCartney tickets The third reason is the best of all. You see, Macca recently announced he’s added another concert to his current “Up and Coming” tour. And I’m going. The

If you were asked to name the three most popular shows on TV, what would you say? If you live in the U.S. (or a lot of countries, actually), then one of them would definitely be “American Idol,” right? Since 2002, this singing contest has totally ruled the airwaves. And it’s still getting huge ratings

Pop quiz:  Within 10 seconds, name the most surreal band lineup … ever. This isn’t a trick question, by the way. (And, yes, you have only five seconds left.) Just in case nothing comes to mind, here are a couple of options: a) The Traveling Wilburys b) Them Crooked Vultures c) Sonny and Cher d)

Have you ever been performing on stage when someone in the audience shouts out a special request? It can be a tense moment if you don’t know how to play a particular song. We can’t possibly learn every song on the planet, of course … but there is one song that’s always to good know.

Is it just me, or does anyone else prefer a little peace and quiet while they eat? There might not be anything else in the world that’s more distracting than a restaurant crooner. You know who I’m talking about … lounge-type singers who serenade you while you’re stooped over a piping-hot plate of spaghetti. Maybe

So … one of my all-time favorite humans is on tour right now. And he puts on an excellent show. When Paul McCartney performs, he doesn’t cut any corners. A typical concert lasts for hours and he plays about 35 songs … it’s crazy. And a big part of the fun is watching him play his

With a little bit of practice, we’ll be rocking out in no time. We just have to get our hands working together. And for most people, that means sitting still at the keyboard … and staying focused on which notes to play. After all, every music teacher in the world will tell you to sit still

I think my power bill has doubled in the past couple of weeks. “Why?” you ask … well, because I’ve been listening to Queen’s greatest hits for days on end. If someone could live on music, then this band offers a very good diet. To be totally honest, I’m kind of embarrassed to say that