This is intended to be an irregular series that touches on songs I hear, know and like (and maybe some I don't like so much). There's over 1200 songs on my iPod on as of now (not to brag - just stating a fact). Between that and SiriusXM, I get a chance to indulge my musical tastes whenever I want.
My tastes go from oldies, doo-wop, soul and R&B, "country AND western", gospel, 80s New Wave, disco (yeah, I said it), bits of metal and hip-hop. So, when I post a SotD, you might find anything in this space.
From time to time, I will mention a song that caught my attention that day, compelled me to sing along, or simply brought a smile to my face when it came on. This isn't meant as a scholarly deconstruction of the lyrics, arrangement, etc. More so, this is just to share how it struck me or maybe how it became associated with a certain time or mood in my life.
Today - "Lonely Boy" by Andrew Gold. It was a popular song during my senior year in high school (fall of '77). It was performed by the same guy who was later known for the song "Thank You for Being a Friend", popularized by the sitcom "Golden Girls".
I have always loved the musicianship and arrangement. According to Wikipedia, Kenny Edwards (who worked with Gold in the band Bryndle) played bass guitar on the track. In addition, Linda Ronstadt sang backing vocals. The roster of players on this track are a list of first-rate musicians, and their work shows in the polish of this track.
The percussion really drives a sense of poignancy with the lyrics. The guitar and electric piano hearken the best of southern California 70s studio-craft pop music.
I know some folks who say the lyrics appear self-absorbed. For me, I miss the days of the confessional story-song. In a way, it almost feels like a precursor to today's Twitter/Facebook environment.
Yeah, it is also one of those songs that make me wanna drive fast on the interstate. But, given my recent history with traffic court, I have to learn to enjoy this song while driving at a slower speed.
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