Critical Karaoke

Today in 1970 Bruce Springsteen began to record his first album: Greetings from Asbury Park, N.J. Find out what songs he recorded, who he recorded, and the critical response to this initial outting today on “A Day in the Life.”  

The comedic film Trading Places premiered on this day in 1983.  What music accompanied stars Eddie Murphy and Dan Aykroyd through Prince and the Pauper experiences?  Find out today on “A Day in the Life.”

1976 Ian Matthias Bavitz—better known as Aesop Rock—was born in Syosset, New York.  Where did he get the name?  How did he become a new voice for his generation of hip hop artists?  Find out on today’s “A Day in the Life.”

Serge Koussevitzky, former music director for the Boston Symphony Orchestra, died on this day in 1951.  How did Koussevitzky inspire a young Leonard Bernstein?  Find out on today’s “A Day in the Life.”

On this day in 1949 Pete Seeger performed "If I had a Hammer" for the first time in New York City.  Find out the circumstances of its premiere and its eventual cover by Peter, Paul, and Mary on today's "A Day in the Life."

Temptations vocalist David Ruffin passed away on this day in 1991.  Find out how he came to sing the lead vocal part on “My Girl,” the first of five consecutive hits for group on today’s “A Day in the Life.”

One of the best selling female artists of the 1990s was born on this day in 1974: Alanis Morissette.  Jagged Little Pills, Irony, and Alt-Rock Stardom all on today's "A Day in the Life." 

Better known as "Scary Spice" of The Spice Girls, Melanie Janie Brown was born in Yorkshire, England on this day in 1975.  Find out how she got her name and what she's been up to on today's "A Day in the Life."

On this day in 1533, Henry VIII officially married Anne Boleyn.  The musical commemoration of Henry and his marriages, from the music hall to Hollywood, today on "A Day in the Life."

Today in 2011, bluesologist Gil Scott-Heron passed away in New York City. Learn about his recording "The Revolution Will Not Be Televised" and other aspects of this interesting and influential jazz poet, musician, and author on today's "A Day in the Life."  

Known as the "Singing Brakeman," Jimmie Rodgers changed the course of country music during his brief professional career.  His "Blue Yodels" are perhaps some of his best-known works.  Learn more on today's "A Day in the Life."

Today in 1977, George Lucas's sci-fi film Star Wars made its cinematic debut.  Would it have been as successful without the help of composer John Williams?  Have a listen to today's "A Day in the Life" and decide for yourself.

Today in 1955, a concert featuring Fats Domino was cancelled because law enforcement feared a riot would break out.  Find out what the fuss was all about today on "A Day in the Life."  

Today in 1904, Thomas "Fats" Waller was born.  A celebrated Harlem stride pianist and composer of classic popular songs such as "Ain't Misbehavin'," Waller was one of the most popular entertainers of his day.  Hear an excerpt from one of his final performances of "Ain't Misbehavin'" today on "A Day in the Life."

Colorado College professor of music, Michael Grace, delivered the Baccalaureate address at CC's 2015 commencement--and he opened with a Critical Karaoke.  He was unfortunately interrupted in the midst of the action by a fire alarm. We thought we'd give him a second chance. Please enjoy this excerpt from his larger address on the subject of enlightenment.   And subscribe to our podcast so you never miss our "Day in the Life" or "Critical Karaoke" episodes.

On this day in 1896, composer and pianist Clara Schumann (née Clara Josephine Wieck) passed away.  Find out how she changed the course of concert recitals and contributed to the musical life of the romantic era--all while raising eight children and caring for her husband, Robert.

Pete Townshend was born on this day in 1945.  Today's "A Day in the Life" focuses on his The life and times up until he smashed his very first electric guitar--a moment that changed music history forever.

Today we welcome Professor Matthew Mugmon from the University of Arizona to the "Day in the Life" family.  He offers his take on Austrian composer and conductor Gustav Mahler, who passed away on this day in 1911.  Find out what you might need to perform his 6th Symphony and his connection to Sigmund Freud on this episode of "A Day in the Life."

Today in 2009, rapper Eminem released Relapse, his sixth studio album.  What was going on in his life leading up to the recording of this double-platinum album?  Find out on today's "A Day in the Life."    

Today in 1956, rock 'n' roller Buddy Holly got a prescription for contact lenses.  Find out why we rarely saw him without his glasses today on "A Day in the Life."