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Song of the Day: Salad Days [YouTube link], composed by jazz pianist Jason Rebello, is only one of the featured tracks from the artist’s 2016 solo piano album, “Held“. Lyrical and expressive, the composition displays Rebello‘s technical savvy and harmonic and melodic sense. I only recently discovered the classically trained pianist’s…

Song of the Day: Abracadabra is credited to a host of writers, including the members of Siouxsie and the Banshees, since it incorporates elements of their 1981 song “Spellbound“. Singer-songwriter Lady Gaga is also among the credited writers, and she delivers this #1 Billboard Hot Dance/Pop hit with gusto. From…

Song of the Day: I’m Still Standing features the words of Bernie Taupin and the music of Elton John, who celebrates his 79th birthday today! A paean to resilience and being a “true survivor” (hear! hear!), this hit song from John’s robust discography appears on his 1983 album, “Too Low…

Song of the Day: Telemann Sinfonia, paraphrase from Trio in A Minor was written by Baroque composer Georg Philipp Telemann, who was born on this date in 1681. This composition has been engrained in my consciousness since I played violin in the orchestra at David A. Boody Junior High School,…

Song of the Day: Samba do Aviao (“Song of the Jet”), words and music by Antonio Carlos Jobim (with English lyrics by Gene Lees), has been recorded by many artists through the years, including Jobim himself, Tony Bennett, and Brazilian guitarist Nelson Faria, who celebrates his 63rd birthday today. Check…

Song of the Day: Never Give Up on a Good Thing, words and music by Michael Garvin and Tom Shapiro, appears on the 1981 album, “The George Benson Collection.” Jazz guitarist Benson provides the soulful vocals on this melodic, rhythmic tune. Today, George Benson turns 83! Check out this upbeat…