Jan 27 | This week in 1972

#1 at KRUX/Phoenix: “Without You” by acclaimed songwriter (Harry) Nilsson — but this one is a Badfinger cover — from the great Nilsson Schmilsson album. Badfinger themselves are at #10 with “Day After Day,” produced by George Harrison, who also… Continue reading

Dec 16 | This week in 1975

#1 at KBBC/Phoenix: “Evil Woman” by the Electric Light Orchestra, first single from the #7 album, Face The Music. Among this week’s songs are several that would have long shelf lives on classic hits or classic rock radio: The Ohio… Continue reading

Nov 11 | This week in 1974

#1 at KTKT/Tucson: “Kung Fu Fighting” by Carl Douglas — one of those endearing novelty one-hit wonders. He bumps out another Carl (Carlton), who drops to #5 with “Everlasting Love,” a cover of Robert Knight‘s 1967 hit. Zonaman traveled down… Continue reading

Jun 10 | This week in 1973

#1 at KUPD/Phoenix: “Right Place, Wrong Time” by Dr. John, The Night Tripper. A line from this song gave Emerson, Lake & Palmer the title to their Brain Salad Surgery album later that year. (Another memorable phrase: “refried confusion.”) Dr.… Continue reading

Apr 29 | This week in 1972

#1 at KRIZ/Phoenix: “Vincent” by Don McLean, leaping from #7 last week. The follow-up single to the megahit “American Pie,” it’s an ode to Mr. Van Gogh and his “The Starry Night” painting. Jackson Browne holds at #2 with his… Continue reading

Apr 15 | This week in 1975

#1 at KBBC/Phoenix: “Philadelphia Freedom” by the Elton John Band. Elton (without his Band being credited) also debuts at #37 singing the Who’s “Pinball Wizard” from the Tommy movie soundtrack (#3 album) — yet another huge radio hit despite not… Continue reading