Notablog

Song of the Day: Native New Yorker, words and music by Sandy Linzer and Denny Randell, was first recorded in 1977 by Frankie Valli for his album, “Lady Put the Light Out.” In that same year, it became a huge disco hit for the soul dance band, Odyssey, with a tenor saxophone solo by the late, great Michael Brecker. Later renditions by Esther Phillips and Black Box were released in 1978 and 1998, respectively. As a Native New Yorker, I have seen many peaks and valleys in my hometown over the course of my life. On this date in 2001, the tragedy at the World Trade Center was one of the darkest moments in our history. But it also demonstrated the fortitude of this city’s first responders who worked on rescue and recovery, and the remarkable solidarity of thousands of volunteers whose tireless efforts at mutual aid were a testament to the city’s resilience. As the lyric to this song proclaims, the “heart and soul of New York City” will forever endure. Today’s selection is the famed 12″ Odyssey version [YouTube link]. #NeverForget.