Kenny Rogers, James Ingram, and Olivia Newton-John's Unreleased Recording

An All Star collaboration that never made it past the studio: Producer David Foster with Kenny Rogers, Olivia Newton-John, and James Ingram. The number: What About Me? You might say "Wait a minute! That's a Kim Carnes trio recording, not Olivia!" And you'd be right and wrong. The single was released in 1984 with Carnes, but it was originally recorded with Olivia instead and never gone public. Rumors circulate that it will be on Olivia's next posthumously released album of duets. Some say it was never recorded at all. I think the proof is in this photo, don't you?

Pieces of Olivia's Legacy

Quite a stunning piece of eye candy, isn't it? Throughout each season of her life, Olivia Newton-John was always presented by her label in the most fetching of ways even if some photographs or music didn't always stand the test of time. The song itself is an 80's tune: frantic, lively, and ultimately a lot of fun but not one that is timeless. 

While out for a visit back home, my wife directed me to a large stack of vinyl as we were helping my recently widowed mother-in-law clean up/ clear out some belongings. These singles stood out to me (as did a copy of the Carpenters "Live at the Palladium" disc.) Which of her six children had such similar musical tastes? Hmmm.

As for The Best of Me, superstar producer David Foster set his sights on being an artist and more than a successful man behind the scenes. His voice on this 1986 release is adequate but not much more. Regardless, Olivia is as lovely as ever and the song ever more timeless. Certainly it will reflect a legacy of popularity and excellence. The song itself made the rounds as Kenny Rogers covered it as well. 

No, I didn't bring any of the finds home as my luggage was limited. But it got me to thinking, what will my kids take from my large collection of music and Disney memorabilia when I pass away? Some of it really is quite valuable as evidenced by what things sell for on e-bay. My legacy should be more than the things I enjoyed. What will yours be?

Music That Rocks- And Doesn't

Like live music? Me, too! And I've seen some great and some horrible concerts in my time. Here's a quick recap:

Queen- 1977 Tour, Los Angeles. The band was tight, and Freddie Mercury sounded as great live as in the studio. Smoking version of the classic Jail House Rock as finale. One of my favorite concerts ever.

Four Tops/ Freda Payne- 1977 or so, Las Vegas. Great Motown night!

Peter Frampton- Also about 1977. One hour acoustic, one hour electric. Premiered Signed, Sealed, Delivered. My favorite Frampton cut to this day. Just before the release of the "I'm In You" album.

Carpenters- 1976, 1977, and 1978, Las Vegas. As my friends in UK would say "Brilliant". Karen sounded great. Met she and Richard back stage in 1976. Very nice people and wonderful musicians. Karen was just so warm. Richard surrounded by a group of hot blondes. The bad press they got for their music was unjustified.

Kenny Rogers/Crystal Gayle- About 1986, Orange County, CA. Both in top form.

Marilyn McCoo- About 1990, Denver. With an orchestra. Lovely. Her generation's Whitney Houston before Whitney's downslide.

Amy Grant / Gary Chapman- 1995, Denver. With the kids. Gary was a great musician. Amy was not bad on the guitar, and she was very friendly and relaxed with the audience. Vocally very strong, stronger than I expected. House of Love was great. Nice job, Amy.

Olivia Newton-John- 1982, Los Angeles and 1997 Denver. Way better live than you'd expect. Special thanks to my wife for both concert's tickets. She's not threatened one iota! 

Sting- 2011, Denver. At Red Rocks with orchestra. Father's Day gift from the kids. JUST INCREDIBLE.

BAD Concerts- Led Zeppelin- Robert Plant and crew too stoned to play or sing well. Waste of money.
Genesis- Bad sound. Pre- Phil Collins on vocals.