Chat Folder Archive

Archives: December 1999



Message: 9417 Posted: Fri Dec 31 21:41:43 1999 By: dennis
Subject: happy new year!!!

I hope this the best year yet for all you america fans!!! Also for Gerry and Dewey,you guys are definitely on a moving train! Thanks for all the Great Music and not selling out to the latest whim or corporate pressure to conform to whatever is selling the most at the moment. America's Music is cool drink of fresh water in a desert of dry wasteland barren without spirit or meaning. Love and Light,Dennis



Message: 9416 Posted: Fri Dec 31 21:14:58 1999 By: Robyn
Subject: Re: NYE- Long Review

Margaret- no need to appologize for the length of your review! Thanks for the vicarious visit. Happy New Year to you. NOW GET SOME SLEEP! :)



Message: 9415 Posted: Fri Dec 31 18:03:20 1999 By: jimnak
Subject: Re: NYE- Long Review

Thanks Margaret ! Australia loves AMERICA !
Afterall wasn't it an Australian label who released some of the Capitol material on CD very early on. GO HUMAN NATURE.



Message: 9414 Posted: Fri Dec 31 17:44:42 1999 By: Margaret
Subject: NYE Again

I've just seen how long that last message was. I apologize for the length but wanted to share the experience. It took me longer to type than the concert.



Message: 9413 Posted: Fri Dec 31 17:36:04 1999 By: Margaret
Subject: NYE- Long Review

It is now 9.15am on 1 Jan 2000. I tried unsuccessfully at 2.15am to write this review but I couldn't open anything and I began to wonder if Y2K was really happening.
I left home at lunchtime for the long drive to Wollongong and it was almost 14 hours later that we arrived home. My husband had to work and didn't know when he'd be able to get away. He came by train and found me in the stadium (down at the front- where else?) just before 6. We couldn't get any friends or family to leave the splendours of Sydney for Wollongong. While it is hard to beat fireworks on Sydney Harbour, we would not have been anywhere else.
The sky was heavy and grey and the wind was strong and cold.This didn't seem like summer in Australia and it didn't seem promising for more than 6 hours of outdoor entertainment and a fireworks display. There were sound problems during one of the early acts, there were gusty winds and there was rain. Miraculously, once America started the sky cleared and the rain didn't return until after the fireworks finished.The time between 10.35 and 11.50 was as good as it gets.
As usual, America was fantastic.We were lucky to get the long show which was tight, well- received and had a few surprises compared to the shows we had seen a year earlier.
I tried to scribble the names of the songs but couldn't see what I was doing in the dark, so I may have have missed some or got them in the wrong order, as parts of the list are totally illegible.Riverside, Ventura Hwy, You Can Do Magic, Don't Cross the River, Daisy Jane, Mirror to Mirror, I Need You, Wednesday Morning, Wheels Are Turning, California Dreamin', Tin Man, Woman Tonight (I'm not sure if this is where it was), Only in Your Heart, Lonely People, Things We Said Today, Never Be Lonely (We love that song and we delighted to hear it again), Sandman, Sister Golden Hair,( sadly no From a Moving Train) then for the encore, Everyone I Meet is From California and Horse With No Name.
While the audience was dressed in blankets, overcoats, raincoats and even plastic bags to to keep out the cold and damp, Gerry and Dewey really looked most appropriate for the occasion. Gerry wore a smart black suit and shiny black shoes ( no tennis shoes or Aussie Blundstone boots) and Dewey wore a black shirt with amazing silver Millennium designs.
There is something very special about engaging with these guys when they are performing. This concert was no exception. There were wonderful personal touches we will never forget.
As always, the night passed too quickly but we consider ourselves so fortunate to have experienced what we did on New Year's Eve.I can't think of a better way to welcome 2000, that is, being with the one you love and your favourite band. Thanks Gerry and Dewey for providing us with more wonderful memories. Happy New Year.



Message: 9412 Posted: Fri Dec 31 17:22:29 1999 By: ANDY
Subject: Re: NYE -Short Review

Ah Margaret !!
Never have so few words said so much !!!

ANDY



Message: 9411 Posted: Fri Dec 31 16:12:56 1999 By: Margaret
Subject: NYE -Short Review

It was fabulous!



Message: 9410 Posted: Fri Dec 31 13:04:28 1999 By: ANDY
Subject: Steve/ Happy new year to all

First, this is as good of a time as any to thank you, Steve, for doing such a flawless job of running this site.
I hope that America, and everyone here has a safe and health new year. Buying a computer and discovering this board was one of the best things that happened to me in 1999.
Be well, everyone !!!!!

ANDY



Message: 9409 Posted: Fri Dec 31 08:43:35 1999 By: EDDY
Subject: Happy New Year

Seems Y2K went allright in Australia, I just want to wish America & everyone on this folder & their families a safe & Happy New Year!

Also, my prayers go out to George Harrison & family.



Message: 9408 Posted: Thu Dec 30 22:32:57 1999 By: Erin
Subject: Happy New Year

Just want to say Happy New Year to everyone! I hope you all have a SAFE, and happy holiday! And to those of you lucky Australian America fans who are going to the New Year's Eve show, have a great time, (and don't forget to write a review!!)

Erin :o)



Message: 9407 Posted: Thu Dec 30 15:31:53 1999 By: AmericaSL
Subject: Re: Melbourne concert

Gary, I'm guessing that the 4 Human Nature tracks they played were Pages, From A Moving Train, Wheels Are Turning, and Wednesday Morning ... but I could be wrong. Who knows, maybe they slipped Moment To Moment in for one of the four I mentioned.



Message: 9406 Posted: Thu Dec 30 11:04:09 1999 By: Robyn
Subject: Re: Hope

Comforting words! I can't tell you, during this year, how many times I have turned to that particular song for inspiration and sustenance. ( Thanks Gerry!)
To all of you here, a happy and safe New Year. My New Year's Resolution? To see more than one America show in 2000!

Be well.

Robyn



Message: 9405 Posted: Thu Dec 30 10:39:36 1999 By: Leakycanoe
Subject: Hope

"Lift your heart knowing
It's gonna be alright
It's gonna turn out fine" (Beckley, 1994)

May all of you have a great year 2000!!
Bill Payne



Message: 9404 Posted: Thu Dec 30 10:36:01 1999 By: jimnak
Subject: Re: Melbourne concert

That's our AMERICA ! Go HUMAN NATURE !
What a fine way to launch into 2000. Make your plans now for a 2000 show w/AMERICA.



Message: 9403 Posted: Thu Dec 30 10:05:56 1999 By: gary
Subject: Re: Melbourne concert

Great Ainsley!

Glad you enjoyed it. By the way, what were the 4 tracks from HN?

Gary H



Message: 9402 Posted: Thu Dec 30 00:55:28 1999 By: Greg Gorter
Subject: Melb, Australia concert

Another powerful & Classic performance guys ! It was so good to hear the new material from your latest album. And one of the bests, california dreamin, Dewey, keep playin it man... it's timeless. Enjoy the rest of Australia, happy new year, please come back soon... Greg & Lili (ex - Coffs Harbour)



Message: 9401 Posted: Thu Dec 30 00:52:05 1999 By: AmericaSL
Subject: Re: Melbourne concert

Thanks for the report. That's great that they played four songs from Human Nature. I can't wait to hear what they do for the big New Year's Eve concert.



Message: 9400 Posted: Thu Dec 30 00:28:39 1999 By: ainsley
Subject: Melbourne concert

America have never performed as well as they did in Melbourne. It was a fantastic show. Four new tracks from Human Nature as well as all the greats. They just get better and better. Hurry back guys.



Message: 9399 Posted: Wed Dec 29 19:28:26 1999 By: Rick Bolling
Subject: video

Hello Johnny,
Video trading sounds good. I have one you might be interested in.
Send me an e-mail an I'll tell you about it. Thanks.

Rick



Message: 9398 Posted: Tue Dec 28 19:03:10 1999 By: Robyn
Subject: Re: "Name That Tune"

I felt that separating the song Hat Trick was a bit like unscambling eggs.....

Interesting question tho Johnny.



Message: 9397 Posted: Tue Dec 28 14:34:20 1999 By: Maureen
Subject: Happy Holidays

To All:
Sorry I am a little late, but I hope everyone had a Very, Merry Christmas, and I'd also like to wish everyone a Very Happy, and Healthy New Year, too.

Also I hope all the guys made it safely to Australia and have a great time while there and enjoy the warm weather.

HAPPY 2000 too ALL.

Maureen.



Message: 9396 Posted: Mon Dec 27 14:20:08 1999 By: Johnny
Subject: Video Trading

As soon as I get my second video recorder repaired, I'd like to trade America videos. I have only one video of America and it's from Wolfman Jack's television concert show from Baltimore. It's from the late 80's, I believe. I'll have to view it again for the playlist. I do know it has The Border, Daisy Jane, To Each His Own, Tin Man, HWNN, Sister Golden Hair, Ventura Highway, You Can Do Magic, and I Need You.

Another video, an EXCELLENT one, that I have is the Eagles during their "Hell Freezes" tour or something to that effect. I believe it was performed in 1995 during their reunion. I recorded it off a PBS station. Plus, I have a video of Journey's "Raised On Radio" tour. It's more of an interview and history of Journey with concert clips. I'm not sure if it has "Oh Sherrie" with Dewey playing a bit part, but I definitely have that song on another video and would include it with the Journey tape. Also, I have a Celine Dion video with her performing in Canada. Oh yeah, I have The Doobie Brothers performing their farewell concert. Any takers? Let me know here and I'll contact you.



Message: 9395 Posted: Mon Dec 27 11:17:37 1999 By: gary
Subject: Re: Ft. Worth...Oh Really?

In 1952, when Gerry was born, the air base in Ft. Worth was Carswell Air Force Base. It has since been restructurred and it's official name is Carswell Joint Air Reserve Base. Being a "joint" base (no pun intended) there are air reserve fighter wings of the Navy, Marines and Air Force. In November of 1997, an Air Force Reserve F-16 crashed at this base. The pilot was able to eject with minimal injuries. I can only assume that in 1952, Gerry's Dad was based at Carswell although I don't know this for sure.

Gary H



Message: 9394 Posted: Mon Dec 27 09:21:25 1999 By: Johnny
Subject: "Hat Trick" and Carswell

Andy, those are two very good song titles you gave. I initially selected "Newton" also but changed it to "Newton Under Roseberry". Until just recently, I thought the words to one of Gerry's portions were, "Just a little lovin'" instead of "Just a little of nothin'". I'd call Dan's part, "To Get To You". For the last portion of "Hat Trick" (Gerry's), I'd call it, "Lady Across The Hall"

Robyn, Carswell is a familiar name. Fort Worth being Gerry's birthplace and having a naval base there makes perfect sense.



Message: 9393 Posted: Sun Dec 26 18:32:08 1999 By: Robyn
Subject: Re: Ft. Worth...Oh Really?

Well, according to my research ( you know how I love that sort of thing) there is a naval air base in Ft Worth. It used to be the Carswell Air Force Base. There are a lot of Air Force Bases in Texas, a lot of them are in the San ANtonio area, however.



Message: 9392 Posted: Sun Dec 26 15:52:51 1999 By: ANDY
Subject: Re: "Name That Tune"

Oh, Johnny !!!
I dunno. I feel like I'm not worthy enough to carry America's empty guitar cases from point A to point B, much less come up with titles to their songs. Hat Trick is my single, all time absolute favourite song. Since it's a few songs put together, it's tough to come up with a title. (The Beatles had that happen with A Day In The Life) For Gerry's portion of Hat Trick, the title that comes to mind is "Just A Little Of Nothing"....Perhaps one of the greatest lines ever written !!!! For Dan's portion, I just can't think of anything right now. Dewey's contribution is also tough to name. I'd love to know what he wanted to call it before he threw it into Hat Trick. Could it be "Newton"?? I guess that's lame. See why I'm not qualified to suggest any titles?? Anyway, it's a great question about one of the greatest moments on 20th century music!! (no I'm not exaggerating!!!)

ANDY



Message: 9391 Posted: Sun Dec 26 14:54:34 1999 By: Johnny
Subject: "Name That Tune"

Have you ever wished you could be the one to come up with the title to one of America's songs or thought, "I would've called that song such and such instead." Well, here's your chance. Actually, you have four chances. I hear at least four different songs when I listen to the song "Hat Trick". I have four titles in mind; however, I'll let others go first. So how about putting on your "Hat Trick" album/CD and giving it a try?



Message: 9390 Posted: Sun Dec 26 14:39:52 1999 By: Johnny
Subject: Ft. Worth...Oh Really?

Thanks Gary for that answer. Ft. Worth is a surprise to me. Was there a military base there at one time? I can't think of one.



Message: 9389 Posted: Sat Dec 25 21:10:58 1999 By: gary
Subject: Re: Gerry's Birth Place?

Yes Johnny, as a native Texan I can answer that queastion.

Fort Worth

Gary H



Message: 9388 Posted: Sat Dec 25 21:10:00 1999 By: gary
Subject: Re: millenium gig

Rick,

Actually, as I mentioned in my post, Bill said that the gig was not actually in the stadium porper, but will be held in the parking lot. Maybe they can squeeze more out there. But 75K does sound like a lot of people to me regardless who is playing. Maybe that was wishful thinking on Bill's part.

Gary H



Message: 9387 Posted: Sat Dec 25 14:28:24 1999 By: Johnny
Subject: Gerry's Birth Place?

Does anyone know the Texas city where Gerry was born? No doubt it has (or had) a military base. Although I live in New Mexico, Texas is just one mile east of my home.



Message: 9386 Posted: Sat Dec 25 07:04:35 1999 By: rick
Subject: millenium gig

I just read Gary H's post about the boys hearing a rumour that there might be 75 to 100 thousand people at the gig.Well just so the guys don't get their hopes up,the only way they'll get a hundred thousand people in there is if each person there balances 3 people on their shoulders.It's the home ground for the st.george-illawarra dragons rugby league team and they close the gates when the crowd hits 14000.When you add on the people they'll fit on the playing field,capacity will be about 20000.
I don't know if there'll be that many but they'll certainly be a healthy crowd judging from the amount of my friends and workmates that are going.
My new years resolution will be not to complain about anything all year.When i consider that my favourite band could be playing anywhere in the world on new years eve and they're playing in little old Wollongong (my home town),i would feel guilty complaining about anything.
Hope everyone had a great Christmas. Rick



Message: 9385 Posted: Sat Dec 25 02:16:09 1999 By: John Lussier
Subject: 12:09

Well, it is officially Christmas on the west coast. Just finished putting in the last screws in a table soccer game for the kids. Laid out the stockings and will put my feet up for a quick libation.

Have a great holiday everyone. Here's a toast to your collective and individual health. Here's another one for more great "Projects" from the world's greatest band. Here's one more for a tour date close to home this year. Here's one for.... wine glass is empty. Good night everyone.

John



Message: 9384 Posted: Fri Dec 24 20:58:00 1999 By: ANDY
Subject: RE: ANDY

Jeff,
I'd also support almost anything that America did......Except for a tribute to early 1700s polka music.... LOL

ANDY



Message: 9383 Posted: Fri Dec 24 17:10:41 1999 By: jeff brink
Subject: RE: ANDY

Sorry if I misunderstood your comments Andy. Like alot of people on this chat folder I have things that I'd like to see America do...box sets, live CD's and so on.

Jeff B.



Message: 9382 Posted: Fri Dec 24 16:14:40 1999 By: ANDY
Subject: Re: Medley....

Jeff !! Wait a minute.. You got me wrong. I'd love to hear an America medley...It's just that I prefer the full length songs a bit more.

ANDY



Message: 9381 Posted: Fri Dec 24 16:08:43 1999 By: jeff brink
Subject: same thing...

Aria, I'd go for a full length project with the medley as 1 track of maybe 10 or12 tracks.

Jeff B.



Message: 9380 Posted: Fri Dec 24 15:56:22 1999 By: jeff brink
Subject: RE: Medley

Johnny, one of the reasons that I'd like to see a medley is that it would be sort of a 15 minute history that I could play for friends and hopefully turn them on to the music. Also, I think it would be neat to see how one song would lead into the next...hits mixed in with non-hits....whatever? Maybe some "Van Go Gan" thrown in. Maybe "Til the sun comes up again" followed by "Now Sue" since they are the same ...sort of. Jeff B.



Message: 9379 Posted: Fri Dec 24 14:37:26 1999 By: Johnny
Subject: Re: Medley

Jeff, I think medleys are great! They're fun and exciting to me.



Message: 9378 Posted: Fri Dec 24 10:02:38 1999 By: aria
Subject: Re: Medley....

I support any America project (Medley or Full Length). I haven't been disappointed yet. I'm still looking for some Texas dates in 2000, though. It looks like I will be driving to Louisiana in June.

Wishing everyone a Happy and Safe Holiday.
Aria



Message: 9377 Posted: Fri Dec 24 08:05:17 1999 By: jeff brink
Subject: Medley....

I can see that there's not much support for a medley...however, I'd still like to see one.

More importantly though, I'd like to see America continue to make the kind of music that has taken me through the years... J.B.



Message: 9376 Posted: Fri Dec 24 00:43:35 1999 By: ANDY
Subject: Re: medley

Howie,
I was at the Westbury show in 1986 when they did that medley. It's amazing that it's one of the only times they did one.

ANDY



Message: 9375 Posted: Thu Dec 23 22:43:41 1999 By: Janice
Subject: re: Almost

I know, Gary..I didn't pout..after all it was "Rubber Soul" and "Please Please Me"..oldie Mouldie stuff..by the way, Ronnie and I took in "Centennial Man" tonight..(followed by a realllllyyyy good hot fudge sundae)..highly recommend. (the movie, that is). :-0



Message: 9374 Posted: Thu Dec 23 22:29:02 1999 By: jimnak
Subject: Re: Medley...

Isn't HAT TRICK a medley ?
AMERICA in Australia to close out 1999 & scream into 2000 !!
The schedule for 2000 is already filling fast. 2000 promises some great things.



Message: 9373 Posted: Thu Dec 23 21:50:43 1999 By: Howard Lieboff
Subject: medley

As a matter of fact, at Westbury Music Fair 1986,
the guys did a medley of:
Baby, it's up to you
Three Roses
Riverside

To my knowledge ,that was the only time I've heard of a medley.

c-ya...howie



Message: 9372 Posted: Thu Dec 23 17:12:28 1999 By: jeff brink
Subject: Medley...

I already have the songs full length...I'd just like to see a medley sometime as a track on a new CD.

Jeff B.



Message: 9371 Posted: Thu Dec 23 16:21:42 1999 By: ANDY
Subject: Re: Medley

Why bother with a medley? I'd rather have the songs full length. A medley is like having a piece of celery for dessert instead of a huge sundae. In other words, one can tolerate it, but why not go for the real thing?

ANDY



Message: 9370 Posted: Thu Dec 23 12:01:31 1999 By: jeff brink
Subject: Medley

I'd like to see a medley sometime...maybe 12-15 songs from the beginning through "Human Nature". ..and yes I do believe in Santa Claus!



Message: 9369 Posted: Thu Dec 23 10:52:37 1999 By: Robyn
Subject: Re: Almost....

"almost" only counts in horseshoes, hand grenades and atomic weapons, but when you already own everything America ever recorded, what's a family to do ;D.

Jolly Holidays to one and all!



Message: 9368 Posted: Thu Dec 23 09:56:55 1999 By: gary
Subject: Almost....

Well Janice,

Old Beatle stuff is almost as good as America. If you can't have America, then I guess the Beatles would do in a pinch.

Wishing you and your family a wonderful holiday season.

Gary H



Message: 9367 Posted: Thu Dec 23 09:18:00 1999 By: Janice
Subject: re: Steve's letter, and response to Andy..

That was some letter Steve..had to get a 2nd cup of coffee to get through that one!! And Andy, it was more like "Cancel my papers and lock the door, I ain't gonna be 'round no more"..lol..at least in that building..! I was there for 5 of my 18 years..so I can add "I'm gonna miss you, yes I will" to that song. Ho Ho Ho...Santa is almost here!!!! Before my kids left we exchanged gifts and they had gotten me CD's and warned me.."They aren't AMERICA, so you probably won't like them!" What did I get??? old Beatles stuff..yea!!



Message: 9366 Posted: Wed Dec 22 14:52:17 1999 By: Johnny
Subject: Steve's Attorney and The Return of a Fellow Fan

Wow Steve, that was quite a Christmas greeting from your attorney. I can't imagine what a "real" letter from him would be like. (LOL) It's true that he did mention "America".

TerryT, welcome back! I know someone who's really missed you...me!! I hope this means you'll be joining us more often because "You were on my mind each day...AND FOREVER". However, you weren't really away, I see. You were just in disguise with your "shamrock" cap. Regarding my helping keep Dewey's name on the board, I "Dew" what I can. I appreciate your thoughts on the placement of "Sandman" as well as Andy's and Janice's. I must say, thanks to you, I now hear "Sandman" in a whole different way. On second thought, the tracks from the first LP should be left just the way they are. After all, the blood pact and the jalapeno pepper eating contest weren't for nothing!



Message: 9365 Posted: Wed Dec 22 11:02:52 1999 By: AmericaSL
Subject: Holiday Greetings From My Lawyer

Sorry for getting slightly off subject, but I just had to share this (besides, he does mention "America"):

Please accept with no obligation, implied or implicit our best wishes for an environmentally conscious, socially responsible, low stress, non-addictive, gender neutral, celebration of the winter solstice holiday, practiced within the most enjoyable traditions of the religious persuasion of your choice, or secular practices of your choice, with respect for the religious/secular persuasions and/or traditions of others, or their choice not to practice religious or secular traditions at all . . .

. . and a fiscally successful, personally fulfilling, and medically uncomplicated recognition of the onset of the generally accepted calendar year 2000, but not without due respect for the calendars of choice of other cultures whose contributions to society have helped make America great, (not to imply that America is necessarily greater than any other country or is the only "AMERICA" in the western hemisphere), and without regard to the race, creed, color, age, physical ability, religious faith, choice of computer platform, or sexual preference of the wishee.

(By accepting this greeting, you are accepting these terms. This greeting is subject to clarification or withdrawal. It is freely transferable with no alteration to the original greeting. It implies no promise by the wisher to actually implement any of the wishes for her/himself or others, and is void where prohibited by law, and is revocable at the sole discretion of the wisher. This wish is warranted to perform as expected within the usual application of good tidings for a period of one year, or until the issuance of a subsequent holiday greeting, whichever comes first, and warranty is limited to replacement of this wish or issuance of a new wish at the sole discretion of the wisher.)



Message: 9364 Posted: Wed Dec 22 08:06:25 1999 By: Howard Lieboff
Subject: Germany 1995 Disc

F.Y.I.
On the Germany 1995 concert CD from Steen/Denmark, there is an interviews with the guys, in which some guy ask questions in German and the guys answer in English. At one point throughout the interview, Gerry announced that in celebration of their 25th anniversary, a collection would be put out. Didn't happen!
It seems that everybody is coming out with box sets!!!
America has to be next. OH PLEASE...Maybe for the Millennium!!!!!!!!
HEY, what a great idea, huh!!!



Message: 9363 Posted: Wed Dec 22 04:00:03 1999 By: TerryT
Subject: not to mention...

Howard L, Kevin S, or Tom T as potential 3rd members... "permanently"!



Message: 9362 Posted: Wed Dec 22 03:25:32 1999 By: TerryT
Subject: Yin-Yang

Holiday Greetings to the members of probably the most consistent, loving, decent bunch of Fans/Friends ever to be found on any website for any musical group. Thanks to Steve's unwavering involvement and the rest of you, along with the true LOVE for what this folder is all about: AMERICA. We can never go wrong, as time has proven.

I agree with Robyn about Steve Perry, and can hear see Jackson Browne, David Crosby, or Timothy B. Schmidt as extra members. Steve and Tim, as with Graham Nash, could really add some top-end vocals to the harmonic spectrum. Don't even want to try to imagine the potential intensity. Have even considered some female vocalists...Stevie Nicks (hearing you laugh), altho not soprano, would add fire and feeling. There are so many others, too.

Unplugged wouldn't exist without plugged. Johnny, maybe the order of songs on the first U.S. release are such that they tell a story. Maybe SANDMAN should have been eliminated altogether, in the context of the other mostly acoustic masterpieces, but I feel a message and story is being told of their frustration at the time. RIVERSIDE starts with probably their most poignant statement...hence their opening number in every performance...then it jumps to the only electric driving song which was discouraged by their producer or whatever. It was an early cry for their wish to be HOMECOMING...about a feeling of loss for what they missed in the USA, and having no time to drink that beer, either for their Airmen fathers or themselves. A whirlwind childhood saga that breaks into a song about home sweet home...THREE ROSES. Sure, we can all now reprogram the order of track play with our computers or CD players, but the order of that album, as with the songs themselves, is permantly burned into my chromosomes. If it ain't broke, don't fix it. Thanks, at any rate, for helping keep Dewey's name on the board!

John C., some of us have first hand knowledge that a lot their first acoustic takes (living room style) are there somewhere. Only question is, "Who and what are the 'holders' waiting for?".

aka OldManToke



Message: 9361 Posted: Tue Dec 21 18:45:39 1999 By: ANDY
Subject: re: Sandman and stuff..

So Janice,
Was the musical theme of your going away party something like: "Time to make a change, time to rearrange. Sooner or later it's something you gotta do......" ???????

ANDY



Message: 9360 Posted: Tue Dec 21 18:22:21 1999 By: Janice
Subject: re: Sandman and stuff..

I agree with you Andy that the album is a masterpiece..love it..had it playing at my office "farewell" last Friday..I accepted a new position in a different department beginning 1/10..more travel..New England territory! Anyway, the folks in my office know that I am the oldest living America groupie..and they thoroughly enjoyed my music selections! Made for a very fun day! Yes, Howard..it was an amazing movie..and the preview you are speaking of must be the Dinosaur movie, right?? Ronnie's eyes were as big as saucers! Looks great!!



Message: 9359 Posted: Tue Dec 21 16:26:36 1999 By: ANDY
Subject: Re: The Placement of "Sandman"

Johnny,
I'm not sure who decided the sequence of the songs on the first album. Perhaps you're right about keeping that acoustic continuity by placing THREE ROSES directly after RIVERSIDE. After all, they've been doing exactly that live for years. Another way to look at it is to figure that they wanted the sameness or the "monotony" to be broken up a bit.(Not that anything on that first alboum is monotonous)
The truth is that I cannot possibly give an objective response becaus the first album has been so monumentally important and central to my life. I know that it sounds trite, but I've worn out multiple copies from sheer over-use. I can't ever imagine anything as totally perfect as the first album being arranged differently. To me it's like asking somebody that believes in God to rearrange the bible in some way. So, I just can't really answer your question too well.

ANDY



Message: 9358 Posted: Tue Dec 21 14:44:30 1999 By: Howard Lieboff
Subject: Toy Story 2

Janice,
Saw Toy Story 2 last weekend with the family. Excellent.
The computer animation is really fantastic.
Liked it better than the first one. Watch for a really bizarre,
fast paced preview of a new Disney movie coming next spring/summer!
Enjoy your vacation Janice. HL



Message: 9357 Posted: Tue Dec 21 13:18:15 1999 By: Janice
Subject: this and that..

Gary..sounds like you had a great time in Vegas..wish I could have gone..lucky you..front row center! I'm on a 3 week vacation..boys left today for Calif..Ronnie and I are off for a fun day of shopping and Toy Story 2..(oh goody)..have a wonderful week and behave..Santa knows if you've been bad or good. (that explains my empty stocking). ;0 Janice



Message: 9356 Posted: Tue Dec 21 10:53:58 1999 By: Johnny
Subject: Re: Songs From The Heart

Nice selections for your choice of "Songs From The Heart", Erin.

It's nearly 10:00 AM here so I promise this is my last post for this morning!



Message: 9355 Posted: Tue Dec 21 10:17:59 1999 By: Johnny
Subject: The Placement of "Sandman"

I was wondering what you all think about the placement of "Sandman".

Everytime I play America's first album, I always think that it would've been better if "Three Roses" followed directly behind "Riverside". To me, "Sandman" (or any other song)interrupts the great acoustic flow of "Riverside" and "Three Roses". I think "Sandman" would've been better placed if it were on the latter part of side 1 or possibly on side 2. If on side 2, maybe right before "Pigeon Song". Plus, I think at least one of Dan's songs should have been on side 1. Dan got the short end of the stick (paper-covers-rock, rock-crushes-stick).



Message: 9354 Posted: Tue Dec 21 09:16:23 1999 By: Johnny
Subject: Billy Joel and The Topic Sir Dewey Had

Gary, sounds like you almost had yourself a private concert there in Vegas. No doubt the show was just as good had it been 3,000 attendees.

Shayne, that is very interesting what you said about America possibly being on the liner notes of Billy Joel's "Nylon Curtain". For those that weren't online with us at the time of Joel's remark, he reportedly said something to the effect that lyrics to songs like "Tin Man" bother him...the part of "Oz never did give nothing to the Tin Man". As Terry T said back then, "The Piano Man ain't got nothing on the Tin Man!"

Shayne, can you give us a direct quote from the liner notes?



Message: 9353 Posted: Tue Dec 21 00:31:25 1999 By: Erin
Subject: Re: Vegas Shows

Thanks for a great review, Gary. I knew I would be missing something awesome by not going. Oh well...hope you to see you guys back in Sparks soon! Until then, good luck on your Australia tour!!

Erin :o)



Message: 9352 Posted: Tue Dec 21 00:30:05 1999 By: Erin
Subject: Re: songs from the heart

Gerry - All My Life, Sargeant Darkness
Dewey - Nothing's So Far Away As Yesterday, Garden Of Peace

Four of my absolute favorite songs....



Message: 9351 Posted: Mon Dec 20 23:02:16 1999 By: Shayne
Subject: Billy Joel (again)


I promise this will be my last post tonight (it's been so long, I have a lot to say).

There was some talk recently about Billy Joel's remarks regarding AMERICA's lyrics. Ths reminded me of something. On B.J.'s NYLON CURTAIN liner notes, he thanks various people. On of the mentios appears to be AMERICA. I assume it isn't, but that's how it's read. Has anyone else seen this?

Shayne



Message: 9350 Posted: Mon Dec 20 22:54:32 1999 By: Shayne
Subject: Re: songs from the heart


Dewey -- YOU GIRL, MIDNIGHT
Gerry -- SARAH, INSPECTOR MILLS
Dan -- GLAD TO SEE YOU, IT'S LIFE

Great question, Johnny

Shayne



Message: 9349 Posted: Mon Dec 20 22:53:35 1999 By: Joe Knight
Subject: Re: Hey, it works.

I know what you mean about the name...Erickson paid a huge sum to have to Carolina Panthers stadium named after them....money talks ..Joe k



Message: 9348 Posted: Mon Dec 20 22:37:08 1999 By: Shayne
Subject: Re: Hey, it works.


Kevin,

Speaking as a replanted Dallasite and a lifetime Cowboy fan, maybe they can bring back NFL football, too.

Shayne



Message: 9347 Posted: Mon Dec 20 18:35:18 1999 By: AmericaSL
Subject: Re: Vegas Shows

Thanks for the review Gary. It sounds like you had a great time. I thought about driving to Vegas for the show (only 6 hours away - LOL) but I had a ton of stuff to do at work as well as at home. Thanks again for the review. Best of luck to the guys as they head down under. I know there are a lot of fans anxious to see them down there.



Message: 9346 Posted: Mon Dec 20 17:31:41 1999 By: gary
Subject: Vegas Shows

Howdy America Fans,

Just got back from Vegas last night where I witnessed two great shows at the Monte Carlo Casino. This is a beautiful hotel and the Lance Burton Showroom, where the guys performed is just short of breath-taking. A very beautiful theater. Gerry said it was the nicest theatre that they had ever played in. I was rather disappointed in the turn-out. Apparently this week is a down time for visitors to Vegas and there were only about 300 people at each show. The theatre wasn't even close to being full. Bill said that this show was booked on the spur of the moment and there wasn't a lot of time for the casino people to promote it. I was the only hard core fan there. If you remember, I was complaining on this folder a few weeks ago because when I phoned my ticket order in, the lady was not able to confirm where I would be sitting. Well all my crying was all for naught. I was on front row center. (you were right Janice!!) When I picked up my will call tickets at the box office, the guy told me that I was the first one to call in for tickets. He said that they had less than 10 people order in advance by phone. All of the others were walk ups the same day as the shows! The set list was basically the short set, about an hour long (I refer to it as the casino set). The first night "Never Be Lonely" and "Wheels" were played. "Things You Said Today" and "Pages" were substituted the second night. The guys were there with their families. Gerry, his wife and young son were there, and Dewey's dad showed up from California. The guys were kind of busy becuase of this but I did manage to talk to Gerry and his wife in the new Paris Casino that just recently opened. They were walking around checking it out. Dewey made reference during the Saturday show that it was the last performance in America by America this century. (hmmmm, I wonder if these two ticket stubs I have will be worth anything someday? haha). I talked to Bill, Mike, Brad and Willie and they all seemed to be very excited about the upcoming Australia trip. Bill mentioned tha t the New Year's Eve gig would actually be in the parking lot of the big soccer stadium and that he had heard rumors that there might be between 75-100 thousand people there! So anyway they should have a great time and I will anxiously await their return and the kick-off to the Millennium Tour! If anyone is going to the Crazy Horse show in Feb, please shoot me an e-mail.

Thanks,

Gary H



Message: 9345 Posted: Mon Dec 20 12:05:45 1999 By: jimnak
Subject: Vegas Shows

Anyone feedback on the Vegas shows ? AMERICA's closing tune-ups b/4 the big millienium tour in Australia.



Message: 9344 Posted: Sun Dec 19 21:57:16 1999 By: Robyn
Subject: Re: Hey, it works.

Welcome to LA Kevin! Hope you are enjoying the unseasonably warm weather!
For me the holiday season is a time to reflect and thank people who have helped me make it through the year. so.. Thanks to everyone here. You have stimulated my mind, given me a giggle or two and helped me through a rough patch earlier this year. and a special thank you to Steve for keeping the Wheels Turning, as it were. A jolly and safe holiday to you all.



Message: 9343 Posted: Sun Dec 19 21:11:05 1999 By: John Lussier
Subject: Re: Merry Christmas

Ditto to everything others have said, Steve. You're the best. Have a great holiday everyone.
J



Message: 9342 Posted: Sun Dec 19 19:07:46 1999 By: KevinS.
Subject: Hey, it works.

This hotel I'm staying at in L.A. has in-room internet access. Isn't technology great? Now I can stay in touch while I'm on the road. I was in Steve's corner of the world--Utah (Salt Lake)--on Friday and Saturday, first time there. I can see why Steve stays. What a beautiful part of the country. Anyway, I just want to share everyone's gratitude to Steve for the hard work he puts into keeping this website up, and keeping America vital and important on the internet. Like I've said, he's like the America version of the 5th Beatle. Thanks.

Now that I've figured out this hotel internet thing, I'll quit rambling.

Oh, Joe, to answer your question, Dallas's new downtown arena is coming along fine. I think it's going to be called the American Airlines Center, or something that lame. Hoepfully once they get it built Dallas will get a professional basketball team to play there, to go along with our Stanley Cup winning Stars.

KevinS.



Message: 9341 Posted: Sun Dec 19 18:51:52 1999 By: ANDY
Subject: Re: Merry Christmas

Steve,
I'll just echo the sentiments expressed by most people around here. This is as good as any time to thank you for your efforts to keep this board running smooth. I wish you and your family the very best all year long.

ANDY



Message: 9340 Posted: Sun Dec 19 18:50:38 1999 By: Erin
Subject: Re: Merry Christmas

Beautiful card, Steve! Thanks so much for everything you've done. And Happy Holidays to everyone!

Erin :o)



Message: 9339 Posted: Sun Dec 19 17:06:31 1999 By: Janice
Subject: re:Merry Christmas

Beautiful card and sentiment Steve..the very best to you and your family and to each of you on the page! We celebrated today, as my 2 eldest boys leave for the west coast on Tues..doing the last of the clean up now..Whew..and popped "Mom's Carrot Cake" in the oven..only make it once a year (keeps it special and it is quite a monumental task..) I know I have mentioned my brother's fiance, Pam, and I thank you for your prayers and kind e-mails. Pam entered the hospital last night, and things are not looking bright..I'll know more next week when I am out there..and in the meantime..please keep her in your prayers? Thanks..and Happy Holidays.



Message: 9338 Posted: Sun Dec 19 11:59:33 1999 By: dennis
Subject: songs from the heart

Thanks johnny! I have to agree,that is what makes America strong is expressing from the heart and being effective at doing it.....Touched by a butterfly on my way home,goin who knows where?Thinkin of the town and the country......Happy Holidays!



Message: 9337 Posted: Sat Dec 18 17:50:09 1999 By: Johnny
Subject: Re: Songs From The Heart

Yes, Beechlady, you're right for saying ALL of Dewey and Gerry's songs being from the heart.

Dan, you're being able to select songs not among your favorites as the most heartfelt (or heart-filled), is more than I could do. "Honey" and "Last Two To Dance" are two of my favorites. I should have said the LIVE version of "Last Two To Dance" is my choice for Dewey.

Those are great choices by everyone. Andy, I think your choice of Gerry's "The Farm" is a particularly excellent one. So is yours Dennis...the first part of "Overwhelming World Suite".

Very, very nice Christmas greeting, Steve. Thank you!



Message: 9336 Posted: Sat Dec 18 17:35:39 1999 By: Robyn
Subject: oops

Must have been the cold formula that I have been taking for the last week. Addled brain syndrome! I said Wednesday Morning when I meant Moment to Moment. Ah well perhaps I meant to sneak in a two-fer!



Message: 9335 Posted: Sat Dec 18 16:14:36 1999 By: Beechlady
Subject: Re: Which Song Sung From The Heart?

All of them. Otherwise they wouldn't be doing what their doing.....



Message: 9334 Posted: Sat Dec 18 14:22:58 1999 By: Joe Knight
Subject: Thanks

Happy Holidays to you Steve and your family this season. I want to thank you so much for this web sight. I have really enjoyed this sight so much. I got to see the guys 4 times this year because of this sight. I hadn't seen them since 1991. America is truely a great band and it sure was great talking to everyone this year. I got to meet Rick and I talked with Kevin on the phone on my last trip to Dallas. Hopefully on my next trip to Dallas we can meet in person, (BTW Kevin how is the new downtown sports complex coming?.) Anyway have a great holiday everyone !!!! Its been great talking to you guys and I look forward to continuing our chats about our guys Dewey and Gerry......Joe K



Message: 9333 Posted: Sat Dec 18 12:09:57 1999 By: jimnak
Subject: Re: Merry Christmas

Go Stevo ! Thanks for everything !



Message: 9332 Posted: Sat Dec 18 11:34:49 1999 By: Dan
Subject: Re: Which Song Sung From The Heart?

Good question Johnny. My choices Gerry; Who Loves You, and Dewey; Amber Cascades. Not necessarily my faves but none the less very heartfelt songs as I'm sure you'll agree. By the way MERRY CHRISTMAS to all. Dan C.



Message: 9331 Posted: Sat Dec 18 09:37:31 1999 By: AmericaSL
Subject: Merry Christmas

I didn't get my 1998 electronic Christmas card out until December 24th last year but this year I'm a little more on top of things. My 1999 electronic Christmas card has been posted and I hope you'll all take a look at it.

1999 has been a wonderful year and I'm grateful for all of the friends I've made on this Chat Folder. It's amazing to me how a common bond, such as our favorite band, can make friends out of us even though we've never personally met each other. Of course, I have met some of you in person at various concerts and it's always great to put a face with the name.

Happy holidays to all of you!

Steve



Message: 9330 Posted: Sat Dec 18 02:48:57 1999 By: Andrew
Subject: correction

...Pigeon Song...



Message: 9329 Posted: Sat Dec 18 02:46:48 1999 By: Andrew
Subject: Re: Which Song Sung From The Heart?

For Gerry, I think, perhaps, Sergeant Darkness...And, for Dewey, I would definitely have to say Pigeon Songsong...



Message: 9328 Posted: Fri Dec 17 18:07:57 1999 By: ANDY
Subject: Bending Johnny's Question a bit

Sorry, but I have to bend the rules a little:

GERRY- a.) She's Gonna Let You Down
b.) The Farm.....not even close to being my favourite
Gerry Beckley tune, but most definitely sung from
the heart, with heart!!!!!


DEWEY- a.) Tall Treasures
b.) Pages


DAN- (how could we forget Dan??????????????????) TOMORROW

* Note that I'm really thinking of totally blowing the rules out the window and also throwing in ALL MY LIFE into Gerry's section.

ANDY



Message: 9327 Posted: Fri Dec 17 17:15:41 1999 By: Bones
Subject: Re: Which Song Sung From The Heart?

Gerry - Hope
Dewey - Can't fall asleep to a lullabye



Message: 9326 Posted: Fri Dec 17 16:25:54 1999 By: Robyn
Subject: Re: Which Song Sung From The Heart?

Gerry--Wednesday Morning. He has a little catch in his voice when he sing "Promise me you'll stay the same" that never fails to move me

Dewey- Catch that train

As always, good question Johnny!



Message: 9325 Posted: Fri Dec 17 15:21:35 1999 By: dennis
Subject: song from the heart

I have to say thats a hard one, due to so many heart filled songs...but currently I have to go with Overwelming World,first part...its hard to say theres so much more outside her door!



Message: 9324 Posted: Fri Dec 17 14:40:05 1999 By: AmericaSL
Subject: Re: Which Song Sung From The Heart?

Gerry: "Another Try" (especially live)



Message: 9323 Posted: Fri Dec 17 14:13:02 1999 By: Johnny
Subject: Which Song Sung From The Heart?

What song do you think Dewey and Gerry sing with a lot of emotion or really from the heart? I know it's a really tough choice to select only one or two but give it your best shot. How about listing a song with each one of them singing the lead vocals? It can be any song whether written by them or someone else.

For Gerry, I select "Honey". Dewey's portion of "The Last Two To Dance" is my choice for his heartfelt singing.



Message: 9322 Posted: Thu Dec 16 23:22:16 1999 By: EDDY
Subject: Re: FINALLY!!!!!!!

Sounds pretty good, Eh, Howie?
I would like to thank Steen also, I've really been enjoying my CD's! As far as WED morning, maybe they didn't have it on their playlist yet, when I seen them in Rockford,IL they didn't do it in their set, then when I seen them later July 4th in Duluth,MN they added it to their set. (which was cut short, due to thunder & lighting)



Message: 9321 Posted: Thu Dec 16 10:36:54 1999 By: Howard Lieboff
Subject: FINALLY!!!!!!!

Even though on about 5 different occassions to see the guys play this year due to emergencies/illnesses in my family, thanks to Steen/Denmark, I got to hear "Wheels Are Turning" in concert..excellent!
Like in Germany, why don't they televise concerts here on USA TV!
SOmething's wrong with this picture!. They played about 15 songs, but no Wednesday Morning?

Thanks Steen, Howie



Message: 9320 Posted: Thu Dec 16 01:22:19 1999 By: ANDY
Subject: Re: Taylor

Congratulations on your new Taylor, Rick !!!!!!!! It was a nice day when Dewey and Gerry ditched their Ovations and started using Taylors. They sound fantastic, especially plugged in. You're in great company. Al Stewart also uses a Taylor, and he too is a former Ovation user. Try playing Tall Treasure and Clarice, and let us know how it sounds.

ANDY



Message: 9319 Posted: Wed Dec 15 21:14:53 1999 By: dennis
Subject: Rock on Rick!!!!

Music is definitely where its at!!! Enjoy and Rock on!!!



Message: 9318 Posted: Wed Dec 15 20:23:24 1999 By: Rick Bolling
Subject: Taylor

Hello everyone. Boy am I excited. I just came home with my brand new Taylor 314ce 25th aniversary acoustic/electric guitar! It's Beautiful!! I've been wanting a Taylor for a long time but it has taken me a few years to save up the money and boy was it worth it. It sounds great. Well, I'm gonna go practice "Riverside". Later!

Rick



Message: 9317 Posted: Wed Dec 15 18:50:24 1999 By: dennis
Subject: it gets more and more make up your mind

but what can we do sue?just wait untill the sun comes up again,with free wind blowin through your hair,alligators lizards in the air...touched by a butterfly on my way home,flyin who knows where???



Message: 9316 Posted: Wed Dec 15 18:42:22 1999 By: Robyn
Subject: Now Sue

The really scary thing is that some of the lyrics of "Now Sue" made perfect sense to me. Could be all those years sweating away in Lit classes got to me!



Message: 9315 Posted: Wed Dec 15 13:15:06 1999 By: dennis
Subject: DEFINITELY DEWEY!!

Dewey definitely plays a big part of america!!Thank You Dewey!I love his enviro-type songs!keep it up...rock on!!



Message: 9314 Posted: Wed Dec 15 12:57:12 1999 By: Johnny
Subject: Dewey Too

And then there's Dewey..."asleep on a rainbow/hoping for the rest of the ride".



Message: 9313 Posted: Wed Dec 15 11:43:47 1999 By: dennis
Subject: Great Dreams of Gerry

I think gerry gets a sizable portion of his material from dream states,that is why they affect people in profoundly different ways...he is connected to the collective unconcious creatively...like all truly gifted artists,at one with the wind on the hill so to speak.Thats why seemingly disjointed pieces like overwelming world can make so much sense to someone like me..which i think is the best on human nature.The nights are stronger than moonshine...I'am gonna go..I know..Ventura highway in the garden of peace with sister golden hair surprise....now sue...make up your mind...walking quickly by houses in white from a moving train



Message: 9312 Posted: Wed Dec 15 08:23:37 1999 By: Beechlady
Subject: Bell Tree

Maybe it's because a Bell Tree pretty much encompasses the aural range notes we can hear? If you try to strike a single note on a Bell Tree you will set the whole thing off like a chain reaction........Just a thought.



Message: 9311 Posted: Wed Dec 15 06:04:43 1999 By: jimnak
Subject: Re: "Steve's Side" and a Bell Tree

Yes a Bell Tree is indeed an instrument. It makes the sound you hear in movies when someone goes into a dream state. Just what GERRY had in mind as a song name is open to discussion, not sure. Was it because he used a Bell Tree in the song ? or was it because his song was the result of a dream of some sort ? Just speculating, but many of GERRY's songs are indeed great dreams.



Message: 9310 Posted: Wed Dec 15 00:59:01 1999 By: KevinS.
Subject: Bell Tree.

I always thought the song was called "Bell Tree" because they feature one in the song, and somebody thought that would be a cool title.

KevinS.



Message: 9309 Posted: Tue Dec 14 20:55:38 1999 By: Robyn
Subject: Re: "Steve's Side" and a Bell Tree

I agree with you Johnny, although I do like the ironic pairing of "I don't believe in miracles" and "I do believe in you"
The title of the song Bell Tree is probably some inside joke that we will never know the true meaning of. All I could find was a town called Bell Trees in Australia...

HEY ANDY__ you missed Backstreet Boys



Message: 9308 Posted: Tue Dec 14 20:35:03 1999 By: ANDY
Subject: 3rd America Member

I guess I never gave a serious answer to the 3rd member of America fantasy. The most legitimate suggestion that I can think of is David Gates. His voice is capable of going rather high, a bit like Dan's. He is an excellent songwriter as well, just like Dan. Okay, this is only a fantasy, but a nice one. The truth is that there is no real replacement for Dan, and there DOES NOT NEED TO BE. America as a Duo have proven to be quite capable. TALL TREASURE/PAGES/CALL OF THE WILD all come to mind.
Now let's see...If not David Gates, how about Madonna? Or N'Snyc? Or New Kids on The Block? ...No wait...I've got it: The ultimate replacement for Dan Peek: MARILYN MANSON!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

ANDY



Message: 9307 Posted: Tue Dec 14 17:48:24 1999 By: Johnny
Subject: Re: "Steve's Side" and a Bell Tree

Steve, I like "Your Side" of Alibi. I think "I Don't Believe In Miracles" is a wonderful song from that LP. In my opinion, the only drawback to the song is the fact that I DO believe in miracles! Sometimes when I sing along, I feel a bit edgy as if a lightning bolt might come out of the heavens and strike me for singing that. (LOL)

I listened closely to "Bell Tree" after posting my message. I think I heard the sound of something like wind chimes. Could that be the sound of a bell tree?

Kevin, I wholeheartedly agree with your thoughts of how fresh "Alibi" sounds. I guess I'm a bit partial since it's one of my favorite duo LPs.



Message: 9306 Posted: Tue Dec 14 16:32:20 1999 By: AmericaSL
Subject: Re: "Alibi" And A Bell Tree

Johnny, I'm going to have to cheat. I'm going to create Steve's side. It would consist of Survival, Catch That Train, You Could've Been The One, Right Back To Me, Coastline, and One In A Million. As you can see, it's exactly 3 songs from each side. OK, OK! If you're going to make me pick one I guess I would go with "Their Side" because my favorite song on the album is Coastline (although Catch That Train is a very close second).

Regarding a bell tree, I've always thought it was the musical instrument that you described, but I have NO IDEA what the title of the song has to do with it. Jim Nakao or anyone else, do you know?



Message: 9305 Posted: Tue Dec 14 15:54:06 1999 By: KevinS.
Subject: Alibi.

My Side One would start with Survival. Great song to kick off any album. From the opening guitar notes that song just takes off. To me, it's one of Gerry's finest (and there are a lot to choose from). What amazes me now is how fresh Survival and even all of Alibi sounds even now, almost 20 years later. That album could come out today and nothing about it would sound dated, from the arrangements to the songwriting to the production clarity. At least that's my opinion.

As far as a live ablum goes, I don't know what a new live album would offer that any other America live album doesn't already give me. First of all, since Oxygen is America's label, it would have to come from them. They already have a live America album, the King Buscuit. So why would they release a second? Then there's the economics of it. No way they would release something live without it being filled with America's hits. Which is just what every other live America album has. That pretty much only leaves room for a few non-hit songs. How many people would pay $15 for that? I might because I'm stupid. I'm not sure if many other people would.

KevinS.



Message: 9304 Posted: Tue Dec 14 11:16:30 1999 By: Johnny
Subject: "Alibi" And A Bell Tree

"Alibi" is a good album to talk about. As I'm sure you probably know, one side of the "Alibi" LP is labeled "Our Side" and the other, "Their Side", because Dewey and Gerry and the record executives disagreed on which side should be Side 1 and 2. I'm curious to know which side you would have labeled as side 1 (side 1 being the side with the songs you like better).

Here are the songs from "Our Side": Survival, Might Be Your Love, Catch That Train, You Could've Been The One, and I Don't Believe In Miracles.

Songs from "Their Side": I Do Believe In You, Hangover, Right Back To Me, Coastline, Valentine, and One In A Million.

By the way, what is a bell tree? Is it a musical instrument that consists of a stand with bells hanging off of it? Why is one of Gerry's songs from "Hearts" given that title? What relationship is there to the lyrics and the title? I've wondered about that for years.



Message: 9303 Posted: Tue Dec 14 09:56:48 1999 By: KevinS.
Subject: Re remakes.

I've always thought Falling Off The World would be a great song to remake. A straight-edge Dewey scorcher that fell victim to the silliness of Perspective. Imagine the lineup that did Greenhouse and Even The Score cranking out Falling Off The World.

KevinS.



Message: 9302 Posted: Tue Dec 14 00:53:57 1999 By: John Corbett
Subject: Remakes

If America remade some of their songs from the past, I think it would be a worthwhile addition to their catalog. However, not all remakes are good just because they're remakes. Hourglass's version of "You Can Do Magic" was pretty weak in my opinion. The song was performed pretty much the same as it was on View From The Ground, and all it did was to remind me of how much better the original was. On the other hand, Van Go Gan's "I Need You" was outstanding, because it was successful in presenting the song in a totally new light. The saxophone solo at the end was absolutely *@*&*#&(@ fantastic!

My own suggestions for possible America remakes...
"Don't Cross The River" -- When Brad used to sing this song in concert, I was struck by how well this song could sound with a straightforward country twist to it.
"Saturn Nights" -- I think this song could adapt well today, even if Dan didn't sing it.
"Tin Man" -- I think a sleek, keyboard-based version could work very well today.
"Here" -- Somehow this could sound really good with the infusion of some new ideas, and perhaps an electric, jazzy jam in the middle of the song.

Any other ideas?

john



Message: 9301 Posted: Mon Dec 13 21:58:33 1999 By: Robyn
Subject: Re: Santa's list

Why MRS. CLAUS of course Bones!



Message: 9300 Posted: Mon Dec 13 21:19:02 1999 By: Bones
Subject: Re: live album

I think this latest tour blows away all the other live cds away. As far as some sort of a box set, how many more times are you going to buy the same original recordings? Lets face it, us hard core fans would like new material or unreleased songs. Hearing "I NEED YOU" with a new twist was great. In 1998, Marshall Crenshaw released "the nine volt years" which was either original recordings or remakes of his music from past cds. It sound great. It's nice to hear a different beat or music to his songs. I don't know what's up next for Gerry and Dewey but I look at the time of when hourglass was released and then look how many years went by before human nature was released. Thank goodness VGG came along. Thanks Gerry!!!!
Bob
I was wondering today - Who does Santa Claus send his Christmas list to?



Message: 9299 Posted: Mon Dec 13 16:59:04 1999 By: Jim Griffey
Subject: For whatever it's worth.....

I know this is an "America" chat board, but I'll bet that a lot of America fans like me might also fans of The Band. I read today that Rick Danko died. He was just 56. No cause of death was listed.

Jim...Erie, PA



Message: 9298 Posted: Mon Dec 13 14:06:44 1999 By: AmericaSL
Subject: Re: Rediscovering America article.

Kevin, I'm afraid I don't know where the article came from. The links were sent to me by John Corbett and I believe he found them by surfing the net.



Message: 9297 Posted: Mon Dec 13 13:29:37 1999 By: KevinS.
Subject: Rediscovering America article.

I just read the article on America by Mark Feldman. A lot of great new quotes and insight from Dewey and Gerry. I have one question, and maybe Steve knows the answer to this, what paper is this article from?

Also, Mark Feldmans' review of Human Nature for CD Now is worth reading too. He agrees that Whispering and Oloololo are great America songs, as well as Wheels Are Turning. I was suprised that he didn't comment on either Wednesday Morning or Momemt to Moment, positively or negatively.

KevinS.



Message: 9296 Posted: Mon Dec 13 12:49:50 1999 By: Jim Griffey
Subject: My thoughts

As far as an "Anthology" is concerned, it's a fine line the record company has to walk. They need to make some sort of profit and in order to do that you need the "hits"...and to make it artistically interesting to us fans you need the unreleased tunes and the alternate versions. And I really don't think another live album would re-coup the record company as much as a properly done anthology set would. Perhaps a live cut or two on the anthology could satisfy those of us who want a live album...or how about this...include some live stuff from the trio years (personally I'd LOVE to hear live versions of "She's A Liar" "Political Poachers" or "Today's the Day" to name just a few). I'm sure there have to be some tapes in a hermetically sealed vault SOMEWHERE.

Jim...Erie, PA



Message: 9295 Posted: Mon Dec 13 12:45:54 1999 By: Mark
Subject: Re: Joe Knight is 100% right.

Right on. I don't mean to insult Dewey or Gerry, but I would love to see Dan rejoin them, even if it was for only one album. I have all America's albums, and I love Dewey and Gerry's stuff, but I also love Dan's. They are not the same without Dan (I'm not saying they are worse, just slightly different). A reunion may be their best chance (maybe only chance) at getting a new album released.



Message: 9294 Posted: Mon Dec 13 12:40:29 1999 By: Mark
Subject: Re: live album

Hate to be a wet blanket, but they have already done 4 live albums, hard for me to get excited about a 5th (yawn). I would much rather see a multi-CD anthology or Box Set with some unreleased material.



Message: 9293 Posted: Mon Dec 13 12:29:57 1999 By: Robyn
Subject: live album

EXACTLY GARY!!!!!!



Message: 9292 Posted: Mon Dec 13 10:41:08 1999 By: gary
Subject: Re: Encore stuff

I agree with you Mark. A Box Set at this time is probably too much to ask for however, a 2 CD anthology would probably be more realistic. And you are absolutely correct in stating that this anthology would have to include all of the hits (yawn again). If it is in fact a 2 CD set, then we are probably only talking 3 maybe 5 bonus tracks at the most (if any at all). Personally, I am not really interested in a Box Set or another anthology type release at this time. We NEED a new live album! I think that we should make this the priority. We need to get the word out to Dew and Gerry that now is the time and that the hard core fans are getting a little antsy. Don't get me wrong, I am not opposed to a box set, especially if it contains some previously unreleased material. I just think that a new live album has a higher priority at this particular point in time.

Gary H



Message: 9291 Posted: Mon Dec 13 08:06:54 1999 By: Mark
Subject: Re: Encore stuff

I don't think a 2 CD Anothology similar to Three Dog Night's is out of the question, in fact I would say there is probably a better chance of that than a Box Set (unfortunatly). Three Dog Night's hits had previously been included on several greatest hits compilations (They have had at least 3 greatest hits albums not including their anothology with much overlap and duplication). What would make the Anthology or Box Set sell would be the unreleased stuff. What excited me about Encore was the four new tracks and California, because I didn't already have them (the extended version of Lullaby was a surprise, they should have noted on the track listing that it was a perviously unreleased version, that was a marketing error). The other stuff was nice and needed in order to try to capture the interest of new or casual fans, but as far as I was concerned I had been there and done that. I think at least part of the reason that the King Biscuit CD was a hit (relatively speaking) was that it was the only CD to have a version of California Dreamin' on it (other than the bootleg Heard which had a very limited distribution). So any Anthology or Box Set that is released will have to include the hits and better known album tracks (yawn) in order to have a chance to recapture the interests of the casual fan or get new fans, but what would make it worth the purchase price for us hardcore fans would be the unreleased stuff and alternate versions.



Message: 9290 Posted: Mon Dec 13 07:40:36 1999 By: Joe Knight
Subject: 3rd member

Thanks for the comments Kevin. My vote for 3rd member is Dan Fogelberg...........if Dan can't be there.........Joe K



Message: 9289 Posted: Sun Dec 12 18:36:09 1999 By: Erin
Subject: Re: America archives.

I found Love Comes Without Warning on the Lonely Guy soundtrack. Tower had the cassette for 50 cents. What a great song.
Erin :o)



Message: 9288 Posted: Sun Dec 12 17:59:38 1999 By: Robyn
Subject: Re: 3rd America member.

Just back from a visit to 29 Palms. Isn't Gerry's publishing house called 29 songs or something like that? Always thought it was a pun on the name of that particular wide spot in the road ( as my dad calls it) Weekend made better by the first song on the radio as I hit the highway. Sister Golden Hair! I screamed YES and cranked it. Good start nice weekend. Great weather.

My choice for a third member? How about Steve Perry? his great range and soulful interpretations might be interesting.

ANDY-- I was ROFLMHO Mariah Carrey, indeed!At least it wasn't Britney Shrieks, I mean Spears!



Message: 9287 Posted: Sun Dec 12 17:09:09 1999 By: KevinS.
Subject: America archives.

While we're on the topic of America archival material, I just read this in the latest issue of ICE. Pete Townshend is in the process of compiling several discs worth of archival material that he did both with the Who and solo, releasing it on his own label, and selling it on his own website. I know there's a mountain of legal work involved, not to mention some money, but wouldn't it be great if Human Nature Records released America's archives and it was sold in venturahighway.com? A pipe dream, sure, but what the heck. Another song to keep in mind for any compilation like that would be Simple Life, the Dan Peek song that's on the Japanese import version of Hearts. I'm not sure if many people have that. And also Love Comes Without Warning from the Lonely Guy soundtrack.

KevinS.



Message: 9286 Posted: Sun Dec 12 17:02:22 1999 By: Johnny
Subject: Re: Kevin's Post #9284

When I log-on each time and see KevinS' name as the person posting a message to this chat folder, I know it's going to be an interesting message. I must say that I really appreciate Kevin's candor (as well as Joe Knight's). Very interesting post, Kevin!



Message: 9285 Posted: Sun Dec 12 16:56:20 1999 By: KevinS.
Subject: 3rd America member.

Seeing as how this is purely for entertainment purposes, and my response will not be held against me in a court of law, I'd say that if America were to add a third member, I'd go with the following, in no particular order:

1. Mark Knopfler--if you're going to get someone, might as well start at the top with the best guitar player ever.

2. Matthew Sweet--America would jam again.

3. Brian Gentry or Ken Marvin--why not add to America with guys who sound like America? Just listen to the a PEACE album and you'd know what I mean.

KevinS.



Message: 9284 Posted: Sun Dec 12 16:46:55 1999 By: KevinS.
Subject: Joe Knight is 100% right.

I totally agree with Joe's comments about a Dan Peek reunion and how much of a shame it is that egos seem to be getting in the way. Hey, I'm sorry, but America was better as a trio than as a duo. It's a mathematical fact, 1+1+1 is greater than 1+1. If Dewey and Gerry think it's a slap in the face, maybe they should think of it this way: Dan Peek left them for God. HE LEFT THEM FOR GOD. Which Gerry and Dewey should take to mean that the only one better than they are is God. Hey, I could live with that knowledge.

KevinS.



Message: 9283 Posted: Sun Dec 12 11:08:29 1999 By: Beechlady
Subject: Re: For Entertainment Purposes ONLY!

k.d. lang.

AWESOME voice, nice writing ability (i.e. would blend WELL), and something almost COMPLETELY different.....



Message: 9282 Posted: Sun Dec 12 11:03:12 1999 By: Beechlady
Subject: RE: Entertainment purposes only/ANDY

um, ANDY????? ROFLMAO!!!!!! (C;



Message: 9281 Posted: Sun Dec 12 03:29:36 1999 By: ANDY
Subject: Re: For Entertainment Purposes ONLY

One more thing about a 3rd member: Isn't one of the Spice Girls available??? LOL

ANDY



Message: 9280 Posted: Sun Dec 12 01:07:07 1999 By: EDDY
Subject: Re: For Entertainment Purposes ONLY

Can we pick dead people? If so, John Lennon, if not, I would pick Paul McCartney, or maybe even Brian Wilson.
To Johnny: Hey, it sounds like you got your "Moneys" worth on that CD!
(ha,ha!)



Message: 9279 Posted: Sun Dec 12 00:16:00 1999 By: Johnny
Subject: "Encore" and America's Third Man

Thanks Steve for the "Encore" info. I have only the cassette. All these years, I thought it was a goof-up that the notes mentioned four more songs then what was on the cassette.

I have three selections for America's third man but in no particular order. Like Brad, I'd select Timothy B. Schmit. Timothy B. seems to really get around. I often see his name in the credits as a background vocalist for many different artists. As a matter of fact, I saw his name on the Eddie Money CD I bought at the garage sale today. He sings background vocals on one of the songs.

By the way, I checked out Ebay and found Eddie Money's signature on several items for sale. The signature matches. I actually bought the CD at a church rummage sale. After I discovered the autograph, I went back to the church and asked the folks (mainly teenage girls) who owned the CD. I wanted to know the story of how the autograph was obtained. None of them knew who brought it to the church (and who Eddie Money is for that matter). I think some young person is going to be in deep trouble when their mom or dad discovers that they grapped the wrong CDs to sell. I thought this was funny: After I told the girls that the CD was autographed, one of them said, "It's so nice of you to return and to try and found the owner. You should just keep it since we don't know who brought it." I said, "Oh, I'm not here to find the owner to return it. I'm just wanting to find out some information about it." Oh, that naive child!!!

Back to the third member. I would also recommend Tom Kelly. He and Denny Henson were members of a 70s duo group, Fools Gold (that's the correct spelling without the apostrophe in case you browse for their music). You may recall that Kelly's name is mentioned in the credits of "View From The Ground". Unfortunately, it doesn't list which song he sang on. Does anyone have an idea?

Another artist that I'd recommend for the third spot is David Cassidy. He has a great voice and seems to have a very charming personality...much like two guys whose music we love. By the way, if you haven't already done so, check out the "Beckley/Cassidy Adoration Page" thanks to John Corbett. It's on the first page of this site. It's great reading.



Message: 9278 Posted: Sat Dec 11 22:53:17 1999 By: Brad
Subject: RE: Entertainment purposes only

If they had to have anyone but Dan I would choose either Christopher Cross or Timmothy B Schmidt. That would be some good 3 part harmony

Brad



Message: 9277 Posted: Sat Dec 11 20:01:30 1999 By: ShariL in San Diego
Subject: For Entertainment Purposes ONLY

My vote goes to Matt Beckley.
(But he'd have to learn to sing INTO the microphone first! HA!)
Gotcha, mB!
Shari <><



Message: 9276 Posted: Sat Dec 11 19:09:56 1999 By: AmericaSL
Subject: Re: "Encore" and A Garage Sale Find

Johnny, I have two copies of Encore (I keep one at home and one at work) and both of them have the songs you say are missing. However, I do notice that all 4 of the songs that you said are missing have an asterisk by them indicating that they are CD Bonus Tracks. It's understandable that they would be missing from a cassette version, but if you have the CD they should be on there.



Message: 9275 Posted: Sat Dec 11 18:31:18 1999 By: Virginia
Subject: Re: For Entertainment Purposes ONLY!

My choices would be Jeff Larson, Jeff Foskett, or Dan Fogelberg. All have voices that would blend very nicely with Gerry and Dewey's.



Message: 9274 Posted: Sat Dec 11 18:00:27 1999 By: Dan
Subject: RE: Entertainment purposes only

Glenn Frey or Dan Fogelberg would be excellent choices. Dan



Message: 9273 Posted: Sat Dec 11 17:22:03 1999 By: Johnny
Subject: "Encore" and A Garage Sale Find

John Corbett, you mentioned that "Everyone I Meet Is From Californina" being on the "Encore" release. Although it's listed on the liner notes, it's missing from the cassette/CD. The same with "Hollywood", "Another Try", and "Right Before Your Eyes", right? Are these four songs missing for everyone else's "Encore"? I think it's very interesting and I'd really like to know.

I want to mention to everyone my good find in a garage sale this morning. I bought an Eddie Money CD called "Love And Money" for a buck. On the front of the CD cover was a signature in silver ink. It was hard to read because of, well frankly, fair penmanship. I thought the person that bought it new had signed their name on it. In between garage sales and while waiting for the traffic light to change, I looked inside and saw the same signature on the CD itself. It was signed with a black felt-tipped pen and was much more legible. You guessed it! I was signed by Eddie Money, himself (I hope and assume). What a huge surprise! I know, it's not John Lennon or Carl Wilson, but I'll settle for Eddie Money for a buck. I did see him in concert when I was in college. He put on a great show. So much so, that he had to take a break to change his shirt that was soaking wet. That's a gross thought, but it's the truth and a testament to him giving it his all.

It's cool reading about everyone's choice as an America trio. Keep 'em coming. I'm still thinking about my choice.



Message: 9272 Posted: Sat Dec 11 15:19:00 1999 By: AmericaSL
Subject: RE: Entertainment purposes only

Brian already beat me to the punch by mentioning Jeff Larson. He would fit in very well. Another great fit would be Jeff Fosket.



Message: 9271 Posted: Sat Dec 11 14:45:19 1999 By: Joe Knight
Subject: 3rd member cont.

I taped the Beatles Anthology. It is very evident how sad and how much they regreted never playing together after their break up.
* please forgive the spelling errors in the previous post.I usually write the post and then check for errors. I hit the wrong button and posted it before I was finished. Joe K



Message: 9270 Posted: Sat Dec 11 14:39:49 1999 By: Joe Knight
Subject: 3rd member

It always dismays me when I hear that Gerry and Dewey are insulted that their fans would like to see a reunion. I used to hear that Paul and George of the beatles were insulted or angered when fans aked about a beatles reunion. It wasn't until after Johnwas murdered that those guys realized that they had let their egos stop them from ever being able to play together again. The old saying gowes that you don't know what you have until it's gone. Gerry adn Dewey are in their 40s. Anything could happen and I hope they realize that this life is short and when it's gone it's gone. I am one of their gretest fans. I have been to see them in concert, I have bought all of their albums, and I have always supported them in any way I could. I want to see them play together again some day. I am sorry if that insults any one but thatws the way I feel.



Message: 9269 Posted: Sat Dec 11 13:25:41 1999 By: dennis
Subject: third member

Jackso Browne and a fourth David Crosby,what spin that would be,not that they don't already carry their own,sorta like dan fogelbergs there a place in the world for a gambler why stop at four?Percussion back up w/ hip hop dance beat to a mellow smoooth tasty vocals as usual



Message: 9268 Posted: Sat Dec 11 12:49:15 1999 By: Brian
Subject: RE: Entertainment purposes only

I've become a big Jeff Larson fan in the last year or so. I think he would be a great fit for the fictional 3rd member. Good song writer has a great voice and in articles cites America as a major influence.



Message: 9267 Posted: Sat Dec 11 11:40:12 1999 By: ANDY
Subject: RE: Entertainment purposes only

For a third member of America, I nominate Mariah Carey.
with the addition of Mariah Carey, two problems are solved. First, the pesky problem of me staying in my car long after I arrived at my destination. With the current America lineup, that's a problem since I can't just walk out while an America CD is playing. Second, it cuts down on my own guilt of not sharing my music with all of my neighbour's pets. When a Mariah track would come on, all the dogs in my area could join in, since only they are capable of hearing the notes that she sings. The only "bug" that needs to be worked out with my theory is what to do with the motion sickness bags. I'll need a place to keep them so that I can quickly grab one when the telltale HAEHHHHHEEEEEEEEAUUUHHHH comes pouring out of my speakers.
Of course, other complications could develope, such as a rash of America fans pouring permanent concrete into their ears to stop the agony, but those are just minor details. Besides, wouldn't Dewey and Gerry feel honoured working with a human dog whistle????

ANDY



Message: 9266 Posted: Sat Dec 11 11:22:50 1999 By: gary
Subject: Re: For Entertainment Purposes ONLY!

Justin Hayward

His voice and guitar would compliment America's sytle quite nicely I think.

Gary H



Message: 9265 Posted: Sat Dec 11 11:05:30 1999 By: jeff brink
Subject: RE: Entertainment purposes only

Steve Wariner...Although a country singer/songwriter alot of his songs could go either way. Also, I think his voice would be a good fit and he's a fine guitar player.

Jeff B.



Message: 9264 Posted: Sat Dec 11 10:31:14 1999 By: Johnny
Subject: For Entertainment Purposes ONLY!

Occasionally, a fan will mention their desire that Dan be brought back to the group forming a trio again. As Dewey and Gerry have so strongly said, they've been a duo far longer than they were a trio so it isn't even a remote possibility. I remember Ike Gauley told us that Dewey and Gerry consider it to be an insult when people suggest that Dan be brought back to the group...as if their music was lacking something. I think we all can fully understand how Dewey and Gerry would feel that way; I know I do. I also think we all love Dewey and Gerry's music just the way it is. Having said that, I thought it might be fun to ask this question and to read everyone's response.

JUST FOR ENTERTAINMENT PURPOSES ONLY and for NO other reason, let's say Dewey and Gerry were to add a third member. Let's pretend, you as their manager, are asked to recommend to them a third person who's a singer and songwriter. Who would you pick? There's two stipulations, however. It cannot be Dan and it cannot be you. You can choose any musician in the world. This person can be a current solo artist or a current member of a band. For entertainment purposes ONLY, who would you pick?



Message: 9263 Posted: Fri Dec 10 23:31:12 1999 By: John Corbett
Subject: Encore stuff

Speaking of other re-releases, I have the Three Dog Night 2CD anthology, and I can assure you America won't have an anthology quite like that. The Three Dog Night set has a handful of unreleased tracks, but essentially it's a run-through of their chart hits and a few choice album tracks. The two America greatest hits collections have pretty much covered their hit output (except for "Amber Cascades" and "California Dreamin'"), so for a new collection to distinguish itself, it would either have to have edited single versions of some of the songs, demos, or "lost" tracks like "Norman". America's songs are already short and radio-friendly, so I don't think there would be much in the way of single variations. However, the fact that America never released non-album B-sides means they have much more in the way of unreleased material than comparable artists. Dewey, Gerry, and Dan seemed to have learned from George Martin that a song that wasn't worth being on an album didn't deserve to be released at all. At least that's what they have hinted at in interviews. "Everyone I Meet Is From California" created a sensation when it was included on Encore precisely because it was their only orphaned B-side sitting out there.

I also think that's why the possible release of previously unknown recording sessions with the trio in the 1980s is creating such a stir -- America fans are used to being left out in the cold during the great wave of "from-the-attic" releases from other classic artists of the 1990s. With nearly twenty albums under their collective belts, the guys must have at least a couple albums' worth of unreleased tracks, not even counting variations of familiar songs.

john



Message: 9262 Posted: Fri Dec 10 22:26:31 1999 By: KevinS.
Subject: Box set.

When I said Rhino "dropped" America, I put the word in quotes because I knew that wasn't the right word, but I didn't know how to better describe it without making it sound so negative. I know Rhino specializes in re-releasing material, but something on the liner notes of that CD mentioned how America was happy to be part of the Rhino roster, so I wasn't sure if this was somehow a different relationship then Rhino usually has. At the time I thought maybe the four new songs on Encore were sort of a trial. If it sold, maybe a CD of new America material would have been released on Rhino. Again, I know Rhino doesn't usually do this, but they DID release "Nothing's So Far Away" as a single. (I remember reading Gavin Report at the time and was surprised to see the song being added to a few stations' rotations--but obviously not enough). Does Rhino release singles of new material very often? I don't know. That always had me curious. That's where I was coming from.

KevinS.

P.S. I can't really buy any more copies of Encore as Christmas gifts because I've already bought one for everyone I know long ago.



Message: 9261 Posted: Fri Dec 10 16:32:01 1999 By: ANDY
Subject: Re: Norton Buffalo

Let's not forget that in addition to Dewey's amazing CATCH THAT TRAIN on the Alibi album, Norton Buffalo also did the harmonica on VALENTINE. I actually have/had a video of America hosting a TV show circa 1980. They were promoting the Alibi album. As mentioned previously, a singer named Larry Graham was a guest. He sang a song called ONE IN A MILLION, but it wasn't America's ONE IN A MILLION. (Strange, huh? ) At one point during that show, they brought out Norton Buffalo and did Dewey's VALENTINE. The only bad news is that my tape snapped, and I'm too chicken to try to repair it. UGGGHHH !!!

ANDY



Message: 9260 Posted: Fri Dec 10 16:07:30 1999 By: Mark
Subject: Re: Norton Buffalo

Norton Buffalo was considered THE harmonica player during the 70's. He contributed to numerous albums.



Message: 9259 Posted: Fri Dec 10 15:56:03 1999 By: Mark
Subject: Re: Box set.

Rhino specializes in recyling music, not releasing new music (I know there have been a few exceptions), so I don't know that you could really say Rhino "dropped" America. They released a greatest hits volumn 2 that just happened to have 4 new songs included (I would bet that was more Dewey & Gerry's doing than Rhino's). What more could they do, since their specialty is re-releases?

The biggest obstical to a box set, imho is WB. They seem to be uninterested in re-releasing much of their old catalog of material (and it isn't just America's material). They haven't even done domestic releases of Holiday, Hearts, and Hideaway which were all million sellers in the 70s. I'm not sure why. Maybe they don't think they would be big sellers or maybe George Martin's royalties are high and they don't think it would be worth it. But there is I think a slim chance of getting a box set released or perhaps a 2CD anthology (similar to Three Dog Night's) with previously unreleased material. WB bought Rhino a year or two ago, so there may be a slim chance of them getting into WB archives and releasing some stuff. But to be honest, I'm affraid the chances of that happening are probably pretty remote considering that Hourglass and Human Nature weren't big hits. I'm not sure how Encore did as far as sales go. I don't know if it sold enough for them to consider it a success or not. I'm sure that would be a MAJOR factor in any decission they would make. So if you want to try to send a message to Rhino, go out and buy a bunch of copies of Encore to give as Christmas presents.

On a side note, I think they waited too long to release an album like Encore. It wasn't released until 1991, 7 years after their last studio album. I think it could have been a big seller if it had been released about 5 years earlier, but I know that probably wasn't feasable since it contains material owned by two different record companies (Capitol and WB)



Message: 9258 Posted: Fri Dec 10 15:46:38 1999 By: Robyn
Subject: Re: Box set.

Well, Kevin, I don't claim to know about the record end of the music biz, but it seems to me that Rhino doesn't promote new artists or really "have" anyone on their label. Most of the stuff I have seen from Rhino is collections of music either by one artists, or by a group of artists, based on a particular theme. It is then conceiveable that Rhino would release a box set of America, collecting the pieces from various sources, for one mamoth much wished for collection.

I could be wrong ;)



Message: 9257 Posted: Fri Dec 10 15:35:44 1999 By: KevinS.
Subject: Box set.

As far as Rhino records getting involved and releasing America's archives, rarities and demos (AMERICA, HELD BACK, perhaps) in a box set, I'm just wondering if that had been planned back when they released Encore. Maybe Encore's sales were a factor in that decision. Maybe not. I'm just wondering if anyone thinks that might have been possible.

Maybe someone who understands the record business will know the answer to this, but does it seem likely that Rhino would release something by America, then "drop" them from their label, only to come back and re-release something by them later? I would hope so.

I know Rhino is the best at doing this sort of thing, but is there another label out there doing it too? I haven't heard of one. But maybe there are other avenues.

KevinS.



Message: 9256 Posted: Fri Dec 10 14:41:51 1999 By: Robyn
Subject: Norton Buffalo

I went to www.allmusic. com and entered a search for Norton Buffalo. His work is too extensive to list here, so check it out for yourselves! I found he had worked with another of MY favorite artists-- Bonnie Raitt. His harmonica MAKES "Catch that Train" IMHO.

The All Music link from VH.com doesn't work. go there directly via the address. I don't know how to put in links here either!



Message: 9255 Posted: Fri Dec 10 13:48:42 1999 By: jimnak
Subject: Re: Unreleased Gerry Album???

I would have to think that any songs that were tagged for the Cypress release are still GERRY's & I can't imagine that those songs are in a coffin somewhere. I would bet that they are indeed part of GERRY's solo debut VAN GO GAN. Although I am just guessing, I have to believe that there are no songs that are frozen & unavailable for him, that would seem pretty odd & unfair to GERRY . I do know that GERRY selected from an extensive portfolio of unreleased material for VAN GO GAN. As w/HUMAN NATURE, quite a few songs are brought to the table b/4 a final selection is made. DEWEY is also known to come to the table w/quite a few songs. WHOLE WIDE WORLD was a song written long b/4 it was released & over time, it finally made sense to release it - on HOURGLASS of course.



Message: 9254 Posted: Fri Dec 10 13:45:31 1999 By: Janice
Subject: re:Dearest, and other stuff..

Yes Bones..the Wrights, Fords and I go way back..and they are still very much a part of my life..airplanes and Ford trucks..(SUV)..people look at me funny when I tell them I drive a truck. Love it! On another note, just want to say how impressed I am with how much many of you know about the technical end of the music business..I learn a lot here..I don't know a lot about it, which is why my posts are often so trite and trivial..(but hopefully entertaining)..but I am really impressed (and interested) with what you all have to say. Joe..how did you know so much about Terance Boylan? I didn't know that he ever had a connection with Gerry..I think I had posted once that his album was given to me by a couple of friends that I had helped move, and it just simply struck a chord and I loved it on the first listen. This will be my last post for a few days..lots to do with shopping and decorating..celebrating early here as I don't have my boys this Christmas (but will re-united in Calif for New Years)..Have a wonderful weekend everybody!



Message: 9253 Posted: Fri Dec 10 13:30:00 1999 By: Mark
Subject: Unreleased Gerry Album???

JoeB mentioned this in his last post:"...Terrence Boylan was the brother of rock producer John Boylan (Boston and others) Boylan also worked on the ill-fated Gerry Beckley solo project for Cypress Records...the company went out of business before the record was released circa 1988..."

This is the first I heard of this. Does anybody know anything else about it? Did it form the basis for Van Go Gan or are it's songs locked away in an archive? Maybe Gerry could release it on the Human Nature label.





Message: 9252 Posted: Fri Dec 10 12:53:07 1999 By: Johnny
Subject: Re: N. Buffalo

John, I think Norton Buffalo was a member of the Steve Miller Band for quite a few years. I believe he did some recent work with Kenny Loggins. There is or was a Loggins tv special scheduled for this month.



Message: 9251 Posted: Fri Dec 10 12:39:26 1999 By: John Corbett
Subject: One last Doobies note...

Recently I gave the classic 1977 Doobies album Livin' On The Fault Line a spin. One of the songs, Michael McDonald's "There's A Light", has a fantastic harmonica solo which turns out was by Norton Buffalo. Of course, Norton provided some unforgettable harmonica parts to the great America track "Catch That Train" off "Alibi". Does anyone know of anything else he's contributed to?

john



Message: 9250 Posted: Fri Dec 10 11:06:23 1999 By: Joe B
Subject: Catching Up

Hey You People,

Happy holidays everybody...thoughts on previously discussed items...
Albums of the decade:
70's Homecoming - 80's Alibi (Rick-I agree 'Coastline' rules!) 90's Hourglass (American Gramophone owns the master recording, unless the guys are able to buy the master back it back it won't be re-released)
00's Box Set

There are some fine covers of great Terrence Boylan tunes by Ian Matthews on his compilation "The Seattle Years"...Terrence Boylan was the brother of rock producer John Boylan (Boston and others) Boylan also worked on the ill-fated Gerry Beckley solo project for Cypress Records...the company went out of business before the record was released circa 1988...

I just listened to the Robert Lamm album again after a few weeks...solid CD! Gerry's "Watching The Time Go By" and a couple of Lamm's tunes "Standing At Your Door", "Swept Away", & "The Best Thing" are outstanding songs.

I'm doing a 70's show on the weekends and had a blast playing "Today's The Day"...the last real hit from the Warner Bros. era ("Amber Cascades" only hit the lower end of the chart) Which leads me to the box set...as much as I hate Warners there may be room for a small bit of optimism...Rhino has gotten permission to work with some of the Warner Artists on compilations; perhaps the WB/Rhino/America connection could make something happen...when Rhino got a hold of the Atlantic Records catalog a few years ago they released stuff that hadn't previously been available...Speaking of Atlantic I had to get it as an expensive Japanese import but Jimmy Webb's "El Mirage", produced by one Mr. George (calll him Sir now) Martin is a tremendous piece of work. I hope it comes out domestically.

Peace
Joe B

P.S. Love the Doobies!
P.S.S. I remember paying 5.99 and 6.99 for the mid/late 70's LP's



Message: 9249 Posted: Fri Dec 10 10:48:38 1999 By: Joe B
Subject: test

testing



Message: 9248 Posted: Fri Dec 10 10:08:02 1999 By: Beech
Subject: Re: "Crazy Game": Final One Has Been Solved!!!

>>Bell Tree is such a wonderful song!

Oh, ANDY.......sigh. How I AGREE with you and THAT! (C; (even if you DO hate synths...rofl)



Message: 9247 Posted: Fri Dec 10 09:49:33 1999 By: Johnny
Subject: Di Farrelly

To add to what Eddy said, Di Farrelly was an acquaintance of Gerry's mother.



Message: 9246 Posted: Fri Dec 10 09:34:07 1999 By: EDDY
Subject: Re: VGG - Intro

Her name is Di Farrelly, Steve has a sample of her "spoken word" music on this website.



Message: 9245 Posted: Fri Dec 10 02:33:06 1999 By: DavidM
Subject: VGG - Intro

Probably been asked before, but who is the lady whose voice introduces the first track on VGG?



Message: 9244 Posted: Thu Dec 09 22:50:42 1999 By: ANDY
Subject: Re: "Crazy Game": Final One Has Been Solved!!!

I'm holding before me one of the greatest musical masterpieces that mankind has ever created: America's first album. Like most people here, I've worn out too many LPs playing it to death. I might even be the first person ever to find a way to wear out a CD! The only thing is, I'm not seeing on the cover what everyone else is seeing. True, there is the usual three Indians, but I can't tell from their expressions much of anything. They seem to have a sort of vague, glazed look that doesn't convey much emotion. At least, that's how I see it. Perhaps this is like that Psyc test where you look at something abstract and describe what you THINK you see. Honestly, Steve, had Gerry not told you about the full portrait, I'd have assumed that the connection between Bell Tree and the LP cover was the result of some sort of white man's Euro-guilt. So, I guess I'll take your word. One thing's for sure: Bell Tree is such a wonderful song!

ANDY



Message: 9243 Posted: Thu Dec 09 20:58:46 1999 By: Bones
Subject: Dearest Janice

Please don't tell me you were in Henry Fords first built gasoline powered automobile or you were there when the Wright brothers made their first successful airplane flight. (LOL)



Message: 9242 Posted: Thu Dec 09 19:53:13 1999 By: Janice
Subject: Dearest Bones..

I probably AM the oldest living America Fan alive.. :-) (but that's beside the point..now let's see..where did I lay my teeth?



Message: 9241 Posted: Thu Dec 09 19:46:32 1999 By: Janice
Subject: re:Terence Boylan

Make that 1977, not 1877..sorry..cold medicine makes me loopy...Surfing over to Amazon to see what you saw Kmar..thanks!



Message: 9240 Posted: Thu Dec 09 19:46:12 1999 By: Bones
Subject: re:Terence Boylan

Janice - 1877 ????? Hope that's not the year, otherwise you are probably the oldest living America fan out there.
Bob



Message: 9239 Posted: Thu Dec 09 19:01:43 1999 By: Janice
Subject: re:Terence Boylan

The album I have is from 1877.."Don't Hang Up Those Dancin' Shoes"..my favorite..but many songs are great on that album..and would still LOVE to know what if anything he is doing now..the e-mail read something about him being in New York...hmmm..still recording??



Message: 9238 Posted: Thu Dec 09 18:23:07 1999 By: kmar
Subject: Re: TERENCE BOYLAN

I found terence on Amazon.com. Search is over.kmar



Message: 9237 Posted: Thu Dec 09 15:30:31 1999 By: Johnny
Subject: "Crazy Game": Final One Has Been Solved!!!

RIGHT-ON, STEVE!!! All of the lyrics of "Bell Tree" fit that very sad and solemn picture of the three Native Americans on the cover of America's first album. The sadness is so evident in their eyes. I see them "Holdin' back the tears that they've held for years." Their plight is so, so sad for so many, many years. And yes, Steve, they've "finally lost at last."

Quite a PROFOUND scene with Gerry's very touching words from "Bell Tree". Their picture and Gerry's lyrics fit hand-in-hand, I think.
Wouldn't you all agree?

CONGRATS STEVE FOR SEEING THE CONNECTION!!!



Message: 9236 Posted: Thu Dec 09 13:57:37 1999 By: AmericaSL
Subject: Re: Crazy Game: One Left

Ok, Johnny, I'll give it a shot.

The album cover of America's eponymous album is a picture of a Native American tribe surrendering. Gerry has said that the entire picture actually shows the tribe surrounded by U.S. militia. It's a very sad picture when taken in context and most of the lyrics from Bell Tree would fit the scene. However, I'll go with these lyrics as the ones you had in mind: "Fin'lly lost at last".

Here are all the lyrics. See if they don't fit the entire scene.

Eyes
Holdin' back the tears
That they've held for years

How can I tell you?
I don't want to make you cry
Why should I even try?
Why should I even try?

Days
Where'd you go so fast
Fin'lly lost at last

How can I tell you?
I don't want to let you down
Why should I even try?
Why should I even try?

How can I tell you?
I don't want to let you down
Why should I even try?
Why should I even try?



Message: 9235 Posted: Thu Dec 09 12:33:38 1999 By: Johnny
Subject: Crazy Game: One Left

To answer Robyn's question, Robyn, you got Valentine and the Alibi album cover right with "doll baby"...good goin'! So, that of course, leaves Bell Tree and the first America album. No, it doesn't have anything to do with Dewey winning the "paper covers rock, rock crushes pencil" contest that won him the right to have the first five of his songs on side 1 of "America" nor the blood ritual nor being the winner of the jalapeno eating contest. Nice try though, Robyn.
Give it "Another Try".



Message: 9234 Posted: Thu Dec 09 06:43:36 1999 By: kmar
Subject: TERENCE BOYLAN

I just read the post from Janice mentioning Terence Boylan. Does anyone have any of his music? Know where I might find it? I remember having his record way back when. If I remember correctly, it was very good. Thanks. KMAR



Message: 9233 Posted: Thu Dec 09 05:51:23 1999 By: rick
Subject: Re:Revesby Show Cancelled

I'm in the same boat as you Margaret.We had fair dinkum front row centre for Revesby.I bought tickets for Star City tonight but all the A category seats were gone which was a bit of a shame.Fortunately we are pretty much at the front for the Central Coast Leagues gig.But regardless of where i'm watching from,the fact that i'll get to see the boys 3 times in a week is making me feel very happy and content at the moment.



Message: 9232 Posted: Thu Dec 09 00:15:09 1999 By: AmericaSL
Subject: Re: Revesby Show Cancelled

Margaret, I'm sorry to hear that the Revesby show was cancelled. I have been corresponding with Morey Management today and they sent me a list of new concerts for 2000 and they said that as far as they knew the Revesby show was still on. I'll send them your post and see what they can tell me. America is still planning on going to Australia, so I presume they're simply going to play at a different venue (bummer about losing the front row seats!).



Message: 9231 Posted: Thu Dec 09 00:00:17 1999 By: Margaret
Subject: Revesby Show Cancelled

We have just had a phonecall to say that the Revesby concert has been cancelled and a refund is in the post. I asked what happened and was told that they cancelled. (Does this mean the promoters or America?) I was told they were doing another show, the Star City one, so I can only assume they still will be coming to Australia. Steve, have you had any news from Morey Management? I certainly hope the other shows go ahead. It is disappointing to lose a club venue. We've been to a dozen America concerts in Australia since the first back in 1976 and our fondest memories have been of shows in the more intimate environment of smaller venues. It was a real shame about Revesby. We had front row seats! Here's hoping for the other shows to be on and 1960 and From a Moving Train and All My Life and.........



Message: 9230 Posted: Wed Dec 08 21:02:51 1999 By: Robyn
Subject: Re: Crazy Game: 3 More Answers & 2 Remaining

Ok Johnny, I am probably way off base, but here goes

Valentine, Alibi- China Doll

Bell Tree, first album-- does it have something to do with the Urban Legend about what Dewey is holding in his hand either a jalapeno pepper or a needle for some blood brother ritual?

Or am I off the mark AGAIN?



Message: 9229 Posted: Wed Dec 08 19:14:57 1999 By: Johnny
Subject: Crazy Game: 3 More Answers & 2 Remaining

Here are three of the last five unsolved "crazy game" answers of mine:

All Around..."on CLOUDY days...Perspective's LP cover
No Fortune..."I'm your HOMECOMING man...Homecoming LP cover
Seasons..."the vast CHECKERBOARD"...Your Move LP cover

That leaves two unsolved. The two remaining songs are Valentine and Bell Tree. The two LPs are America, the first album, and Alibi. When the last two are solved, you will see that one of the song's lyrics are quite PROFOUND when applied to the picture on the album cover. Well, I think it's profound, anyway. We'll see if you agree. Can you be the first person to tell us about this message? :)



Message: 9228 Posted: Wed Dec 08 16:41:53 1999 By: Janice
Subject: re: Doobies..

Will make this short..gotta killer cold..and waiting for my chicken soup to boil..Love the Doobies..especially The Captain and Me..one of my favorites rarely mentioned is Ukiah..still play it on my TURNTABLE..yes, you read that right. And had a neat treat driving to work this morning..hear the Christmas Chipmunks song.."Christmas Don't Be Late.."..and speaking of Christmas songs..come on guys..could you have not have granted our little wish for a Christmas CD?? Surely you know the words to Jingle Bells! Hrumpffhhh..Bah Humbug. And finally (I know I said I was going to keep this short..) would the person who sent me an anonymous e-mail about Terence Boylan please contact me again?? Had more questions and you went away!! Have a nice evening...soups' done.



Message: 9227 Posted: Wed Dec 08 12:12:58 1999 By: John Corbett
Subject: More Doobie thoughts...

Another aspect to the fourth CD in the box set are the early recordings of songs which later became Doobie standards, like "Long Train Runnin'", "Sweet Maxine", "Takin' It To The Streets", etc. I'm sure America has plenty of early renditions and variations on many of their great tracks. There are almost certainly early recordings of "Don't Cross The River" and "Submarine Ladies" dating back to 1971 which might be interesting to hear. It would be interesting to hear early takes of "A Horse With No Name", "Ventura Highway" (pre-riff?), "Sister Golden Hair", "You Could Do Magic", "The Border", etc. Food for thought, eh?

john

P.S. Are you reading this, Warner Archives??!?!???!?!



Message: 9226 Posted: Wed Dec 08 12:07:54 1999 By: John Corbett
Subject: Doobies!

Howard,

Funny you mentioned that... I just got the Doobie box set yesterday for my birthday. The first three CDs are pretty much reruns for those who have collected all their albums like me, but the fourth CD is a treat. It features primarily abandoned recordings made between their first and second albums in 1971. America fans might like some of their early recordings because of the strong acoustic orientation of those recordings. Anyway, I'm sure America has gems out there. Over the years, we all have heard the rumors of recordings sitting around...
The early Tin Pan alley demos in 1970...
The "Old Grey Whistle Test" TV show from 1971...
The original recordings of the Homecoming tracks with Ian Samwell from 1972...
The remaining Morgan Studios sessions from 1971...
Gerry's unsold solo recordings over the years...
Orphaned recordings like "Norman"...
Demos for various record companies during the late 1980s...
Other songs floating around, like "Love Comes Without Warning" or "Last Two To Dance"...

john



Message: 9225 Posted: Wed Dec 08 11:18:21 1999 By: AmericaSL
Subject: Australia Concerts

Thanks for all the Australia concert information. It seems like there's some discrepancy about where our favorite band will be playing on the 3rd, 4th, and 5th so I've got Morey Management checking into it and hopefully we'll have it clarified soon.



Message: 9224 Posted: Wed Dec 08 10:23:44 1999 By: Howard Lieboff
Subject: Box Set

Hey, everyone...
Haven't been in a record store for quite a while...
So, what's the first thing I see...
Doobie Brothers Box Set put out by Rhino...
and Disc 4 is what !#%&#(!% upsets me: Lost demos and rareties!

Nuff said!



Message: 9223 Posted: Wed Dec 08 07:53:12 1999 By: Beech
Subject: Re: Nasty palms!

WICKED spikes INDEED. I have two mini palms infront of my house and those darned things are kin to hypodermic NEEDLES....Not to mention when the fronds dry and drop, THEN it's pure MURDER to pick them up!



Message: 9222 Posted: Wed Dec 08 06:10:26 1999 By: rick
Subject: Re:Last message

I meant the 4th.They're at Central Coast Leagues on the 5th.



Message: 9221 Posted: Wed Dec 08 06:06:37 1999 By: rick
Subject: Re:Another Sydney Concert


I'm going to see them at Revesby Workers Club on this night Margaret.Are you sure i'ts not the 5th?

P.S I never thought about 1960 for the new year show.It would be fantastically appropriate. RICK



Message: 9220 Posted: Wed Dec 08 05:26:26 1999 By: Margaret
Subject: Another Sydney Concert

Tickets are now on sale for another Sydney concert. It will be on Monday 3 January at Star City. There was considerable early interest in tickets, so much, that we were unable to get the front row seats that we were hoping for !
For the show on New Year's Eve, I think that it would be great to hear 1960. With a couple of very simple changes ( 40 years and end of 99) it would be a most appropriate inclusion. Here's hoping.



Message: 9219 Posted: Tue Dec 07 23:04:19 1999 By: EDDY
Subject: America Live

Hello America Fans,
I have seen a few people on the chat folder talking about wanting a live CD, check out message # 9078 Subject: Listen
The CD's are live in Germany(from German TV) and sound very good, some of the songs from the 95" concert CD include: Hope, The Last Unicorn, another try, & a couple of cool interviews. The 99' concert includes Unicorn, Three Roses, From a moving Train, Wheels are turning, Pages, (I think you know the rest)
You can get these from Steen.He is from Denmark, is a very nice person & is very easy to deal with, & is willing to trade.
I think these CD's would be an added bonus to anybodys America collection! (of course, when they do come out w/another live CD, I'll be buying that also)
Well, just wanted to make people aware that they are out there, all for now!
America Fan,
EDDY



Message: 9218 Posted: Tue Dec 07 17:54:38 1999 By: Robyn
Subject: Re: Beech Had Another One...Just About

RE the Palm tree-- right you are! I had to look agai, as the only thing I could remember them sitting under was that giant Cholla, glad they didn't get too close,those thing have WICKED spikes! Area looks like 29 Palms- Joshua Tree, but I could be wrong. ANyone know for certain?



Message: 9217 Posted: Tue Dec 07 17:23:24 1999 By: Beech
Subject: Re: Beech Had Another One...Just About

I'll tell you WHAT Mr. J, those were some HARD H-A-R-D decisions I had to make there.......My brain locked up on some, that's why I ended up posting 2 Your Moves....lol. OH WELL. After I posted and saw the error I got mad at myself and QUIT..... (C;

TkH



Message: 9216 Posted: Tue Dec 07 16:22:20 1999 By: Johnny
Subject: Beech Had Another One...Just About

Beech, you had another one partially right. You and I have the album covers reversed.

You said:
Cast The Spirit...Hat Trick..."the sun goes down and darkness".
Hollywood...Harbor..."palm tree"

I have:
Cast The Spirit...Harbor..."the sun goes down and darkness surrounds"
Hollywood...Hat Trick..."underneath the golden palm tree"

That is a palm tree that the guys are standing under, isn't it? Living in the land of cacti and dirt, I'm not too familiar with palm trees. A mesquite bush, yes, a palm tree, maybe! (LOL)



Message: 9215 Posted: Tue Dec 07 16:04:09 1999 By: Johnny
Subject: Knowing The Dates And Prices

Kevin, I know the dates and prices ONLY because I wrote them down on the album cover right after I bought them. Believe me, after age 40, my brain cells took a heavy toll.



Message: 9214 Posted: Tue Dec 07 15:58:13 1999 By: Johnny
Subject: "Wednesday Morning" First

You're probably thinking, "Why look at having Oxygen re-release "Hourglass" under their name when we have "Wednesday Morning" ready, willing, and able to go but no wind under it's wing", right? So I say, bring "Wednesday Morning" on!



Message: 9213 Posted: Tue Dec 07 15:56:43 1999 By: KevinS.
Subject: Purchase dates.

Johnny:

How can you possibly remember when and how much you paid for those albums. The only album I can remember is Human Nature. I bought it the day before it was to be released, September 14, 1998, for $10.00.
Beyond that, my mind's a blank.

KevinS.



Message: 9212 Posted: Tue Dec 07 15:43:07 1999 By: Johnny
Subject: "What Does It Matter" & Purchase Date

John, when "Holiday" first came out, I remember thinking the same as you mentioned about the album cover and the lyrics to "What Does It Matter". I guess Gerry would be the one to ask about which came first. That's a good question!

Regarding "In Concert" and all the other America LPs, I would visit the record stores each week looking for any new "surprises" released by America. "In Concert" was no different. I'm sure I purchased it within a week of when the store put it out on the shelf. I remember very well buying "Hourglass". I had no idea that it was even recorded. What an absolutely underrated CD it is.

I wonder...has a different record company ever released a complete record/CD that was previously released by another company? It seems to me that "Hourglass" is such a great work of music that it's a shame that it sits "undiscovered" except for "Hope". I wonder if Oxygen can do something good with "Hourglass" with the same zest it did for "Human Nature". Probably too much red-tape involving American Gramaphone. It's a thought worth investigating, though. Karen D, "Are You There"?



Message: 9211 Posted: Tue Dec 07 14:48:45 1999 By: John Corbett
Subject: Purchase Dates

Johnny,

I take it you bought these albums as soon as they came out, huh? Since the show recorded for the '85 In Concert album was on June 1, I doubt the album could have been released much earlier than August 15. Got any others from earlier?

john



Message: 9210 Posted: Tue Dec 07 14:46:27 1999 By: John Corbett
Subject: "crazy game"

I always thought that the connection between the Holiday album cover and the lyrics to "What Does It Matter" was kind of neat...

"Look the lady's got a photograph
Silver framed and velvet backed
Well, she took it quite a while ago
Funny that she never let me know"

(If you notice, the front cover of Holiday is "silver-framed", and the reverse is "velvet backed".) I wonder which came first, the album cover or the song.

john



Message: 9209 Posted: Tue Dec 07 14:26:25 1999 By: Johnny
Subject: Purchase Date

Here are the dates and prices (not including tax) of some of the other America LPs I've bought new. I'm curious to know the difference purchase dates among us fans. Can anyone else tell us when they bought theirs and at what price?

"View From The Ground" July 22, 1982 $7.99
"Your Move" June 22, 1983 $8.95
"Perspective" September 27, 1984 $7.99
"In Concert" August 15, 1985 $8.98

Those were the good ol' days when there was an album out every year.



Message: 9208 Posted: Tue Dec 07 13:58:44 1999 By: Johnny
Subject: "Crazy Game": Some Answers Are Right

Beech, good going! You got some of them right. I do realize that some lyrics fit several album covers. Here are the ones that I had in mind that you matched:

Hell's On Fire...Human Nature..."HANDS IN MY POCKETS AND MY HEAD IN THE SKY"

Don't Cross The River...Hearts..."without no BRIDGES"

Ventura Highway...Hideaway..."in SNOW"

Are You There...Holiday..."ACTED PROUD AND POSED FOR MEMORY" (Especially Dewey...checkout his pose)

You're right about Hollywood and the palm tree but I was thinking of another album cover. Hint: UNDERNEATH A GOLDEN PALM TREE. Actually a greenish/gold palm tree. You're also right about the checkers on Your Move but I had a different song in mind.

Tom T: Thanks for trying but no go with Valentine and the Hearts LP. My album cover had the America logo and the 3 hearts as a sticker on the cellophane wrapper. I know that some logos were printed directly on the cover. They're probably the latter ones. I bought Hearts exactly on April 1, 1975 (no "Foolin'"). I wrote it on the back of the cover.

Keep trying on the game. It should help that some pieces of the puzzle have been answered correctly.



Message: 9207 Posted: Tue Dec 07 11:58:38 1999 By: AmericaSL
Subject: Re: VanGoGan

Marshall, Van Go Gan is only available through Thoughtscape Sounds. It was released on Gerry's private label, Human Nature, and I'm sure that he doesn't have distributorships set up yet to get it into the Amazon.com and CDNOW.com channels. Scott Sosebee at Thoughtscape Sounds has been a wonderful supporter of America and their CD's and has consistently done everything he can to make them available to America fans. When he heard that Gerry was releasing Van Go Gan domestically, he worked with Gerry to make sure that it was available to everyone worldwide. I know that Gerry would eventually like Van Go Gan to be available through all of the normal channels. But, until then, it's good to know that Thoughtscape Sounds is filling the bill for anyone who wants it.



Message: 9206 Posted: Tue Dec 07 11:24:37 1999 By: Robyn
Subject: re: music /Watership Down vs. Bright Eyes

Ok Tom, Here's what I did. I searched our LAPL Database for the movie Watership Down, and placed a hold On it. It's a cool service we have here,they find it in the collection and send it to the agency of your choice for check out! So, when it arrives I will try to listen to the song again. AND BTW I do like Art Garfunlkel's singing. He does have an angelic soaring voice. My previous thoughts were that the song slowed the pace of the film to a distinct CRAWL! I will let you konow in a few days.



Message: 9205 Posted: Tue Dec 07 10:58:19 1999 By: Marshall
Subject: Re: VanGoGan

I've noticed that VanGoGan is not sold on amazon.com or cdnow.com. Why not?



Message: 9204 Posted: Tue Dec 07 09:21:56 1999 By: EDDY
Subject: Re: Playing Some More Of My "Crazy Games"

Ahhh...looks like I didn't type fast enough......



Message: 9203 Posted: Tue Dec 07 09:19:24 1999 By: EDDY
Subject: Re: Playing Some More Of My "Crazy Games"

Hell's on fire: Hand's in my pockets, & head in the sky = Human Nature cover (just a guess)



Message: 9202 Posted: Tue Dec 07 09:15:55 1999 By: Beech
Subject: Re: Playing Some More Of My "Crazy Games"

OH GREAT,,,,,,,I REPEATED myself....sigh... sorry I REPEATED myself....sigh... sorry I REPEATED myself....sigh... sorry I REPEATED myself....sigh... sorry I REPEATED myself....sigh... sorry I REPEATED myself....sigh... sorry I REPEATED myself....sigh... sorry



Message: 9201 Posted: Tue Dec 07 09:14:16 1999 By: Beech
Subject: Re: Playing Some More Of My "Crazy Games"

Hmmmmmmm INTERESTING.....
Cast The Spirit-HatTrick (the sun goes down and darkness)
Hell's On Fire-Human Nature (hands in pockets and my head in the sky)
Valentine-Your Move (Chinese Checkers)
Don't Cross The River-Hearts (without no bridges)
Hollywood-Harbor (PALM TREE)
No Fortune-America (I think we had too much to drink)
Ventura Highway-Hideaway (Snow)
All Around--Homecoming (the sun's going DOWN)
Bell Tree (!!!!!)-I'm LOST on THIS ONE. (the little guy finally lost at last?)
Are You There-Holiday (posed for memories)
Seasons-Your Move (SeaSHORE)



Message: 9200 Posted: Mon Dec 06 23:58:23 1999 By: ANDY
Subject: Re: VanGoGan

Wow Joe, we must have been seperated at birth. I absolutely adore my copy of Gerry's Van Go Gan, and I listen to it in the car...along with my copy of Paula Cole's THIS FIRE. She can get a little weird, but she's o.k. Actually, my curent routine is massive doses of Human Nature and VGG, followed by tons of Sarah McLachlan and Lilith Fair stuff on the ride home. But yes, it's my dream that Gerry Beckley will one day be the opening act for AMERICA !!!

ANDY



Message: 9199 Posted: Mon Dec 06 22:33:45 1999 By: Joe Knight
Subject: VanGoGan

Well I have had VGG in my van for a week now,and I have to say that this is truely an awesome CD. VGG,Playing God,Now Sue,and the rest are the best Beckley compositions ever. I am really blown away by how good it is. I had to drive a total of 7 hours today and I listened to the CD for at least 4 of those hours. ( I had to listen to Rush when I found him on a AM station. The last 35 minutes I listened to Paula Cole (she is awesome as well)
I didn't care for the backwards song but the rest of the CD is exceptional!!!! Hearing the last track with Phil Harttman was bittersweet as well. What an Album.................WOW Joe K



Message: 9198 Posted: Mon Dec 06 22:16:11 1999 By: Tom T.
Subject: Crazy Games...

Great One Johnny...First guess (an easy one) Valentine/ Hearts!!! I'll try some others later- I'm tired! Cool concept Johnny!!! Take Care



Message: 9197 Posted: Mon Dec 06 22:12:09 1999 By: Tom T.
Subject: re: music /Watership Down vs. Bright Eyes

Hi Robyn! Yes, you were correct however I just wanted to stick up for the Garfunkel tune. YES- I was wicked ticked off when the movie came out, expecting to hear Gerry's voice through the speakers in the darkened movie theater and out came Art Garfunkel singing a song entitled "Bright Eyes". As someone who appreciates the "written word" go back with an open mind and listen to "Bright Eyes". Don't worry, I DO like Gerry's tune alot (In fact, it's one of my faves!) But the lyric's of the Mike Batt composition are definitely a plea against cruelty to animals versus Gerry's tune which, even though it's understandable, doesn't really bring the point home.Gerry's song is much more of a word poem- and it is truly remarkable. Garfunkel re-recorded the song for his "Scissors Cut" LP and it really is a defining example of his incredible, angelic singing. Hope all is well Robyn- I'm sure you get my drift, after all- you're pretty hip! If you have a chance give Garfunkel's tune a listen. I think that as time has passed, you may have a different impression (Even though WE KNOW that AMERICA really DID get the bum rap by not having their song in that film!- at least they got to do "..Unicorn") See Ya!



Message: 9196 Posted: Mon Dec 06 22:05:56 1999 By: Erin
Subject: Re: Playing Some More Of My "Crazy Games"

Wow Johnny...that's an impressive game. I don't think I could get a single one right! I'll have to think about this some more, I guess!
Have a great night!
Erin :o)



Message: 9195 Posted: Mon Dec 06 21:58:47 1999 By: Johnny
Subject: Playing Some More Of My "Crazy Games"

Here's a game for you all if you don't have anything better to do.

Below are America songs whose lyric or lyrics describe the front of one of America's album covers in some way. Can you match the song with the album and give the lyric or lyrics that describe something on the album cover?

Here's an example: "Three Roses" would match "View From The Ground" because of the lyric, "WITH A BOOK IN YOUR HAND". Dewey's holding a book on the "View" album cover.

Here's another example: "Children" would match "Silent Letter" because of the lyric, "get your HEADS back together". Gerry and Dewey's life-size head shots in so overwhelming. I love that front and back album cover by the way.

It's one song to one album. Here we go. Here are the songs:
Valentine, Don't Cross The River, Hollywood, No Fortune, Hell's On Fire, Ventura Highway, Cast The Spirit, All Around, Bell Tree, Are You There, and Seasons.

Here are the albums that you are to match:
Holiday, Homecoming, Perspective, Your Move, Human Nature, America (the first album), Harbor, Alibi, Hat Trick, Hearts, and Hideaway.



Message: 9194 Posted: Mon Dec 06 18:31:11 1999 By: Robyn
Subject: re: music

Thanks Steve. I was sure I had heard it somewhere! Thanks for validating me! My brain sometimes doesn't synapse properly!



Message: 9193 Posted: Mon Dec 06 17:55:46 1999 By: AmericaSL
Subject: re: music

Dearest Robyn, I must bow to your great memory and concede that my gray matter just ain't what it used to be. I used the all powerful America Fans Search Engine to go back through the Chat Folder archives and found the message you referred to. It is message #6100 by our illustrious Joe (Show). You were right that there was a discussion going on about "Watership Down". You can read what Joe had to say by going to the April 1999 Chat Folder Archive Page and scrolling down to message #6100. Most of the other posts about Watership Down are also on that page.

--Steve (growing older every day)



Message: 9192 Posted: Mon Dec 06 15:29:50 1999 By: Johnny
Subject: Lots of Misc.

I still can't believe that a major company hasn't picked "You Can Do Magic" or "SGH" for use in their tv commerical. Could that be what's new and exciting...a commerical with America's music? Just a thought.

"Hat Trick" is an awfully cool album of the 70s. The poster was great. I'm beginning to change my mind about "Homecoming" being my favorite LP from that decade. I chuckle each time I think about how mean and serious Dan, Dewey, and Gerry look on the "Hat Trick" album cover yet the album begins with the super-mellow sounds of "Muskrat Love".

Here's the results of which "Encore" songs were the favorite:
"Nothing's So Far Away As Yesterday" (Mark, Shayne, Steve L, John Lussier, Beech, and me) was the winner over "Hell's On Fire" with 3 votes (Robyn, Dan, and Eddy).

"On Target" (Robyn, Mark, Shayne, Steve L, John Lussier, Beech, and me) over "The Farm" (Eddy).

Regarding "Watership Down" the movie, I remember going to see it just because I thought it would feature Gerry's song. Boy, was I disappointed. It was a cute movie but it wasn't pleasant afterwards because I talked my older brother into going to it instead of another movie he wanted to see and he wasn't into animation. I can't remember for sure, but I tend to think that I didn't know it was animated either.

Try this: Put "Garden Of Peace" on and go to bed. As you listen to it, you're bound to feel like you're floating across the "emerald lawn" and down the "path through the knowing trees." Wow! It gives you a such a great sense of tranquility. It's a very cool feeling. It has such a heavenly quality.



Message: 9191 Posted: Mon Dec 06 11:37:28 1999 By: dennis
Subject: Goldeneaglevideo wishes all america fans a great holiday season!!!

Goldeneaglevideo,Dennis Proffitt wishes all the fans of America a miracle,magical,wonderous holiday season of warmth and love!!That goes for dewey and gerry too for there are truly an uplifting force of musical magic in the world.Goldeneaglevideo is not for profit enviromental/music foundation based in big bear lake,ca. and ann arbor,mi.More details to be announced later as Goldeneaglevideo web site is opened and trailer from forthcoming wideo:THE TURNING POINT:PLANET EARTH IN TRANSITION is made availiable in near future.BE WELL and lets all work together to help save planet earth.THank you GERRY AND DEWEY for your positive energy!!!and Epic Musical releases!!



Message: 9190 Posted: Mon Dec 06 11:16:43 1999 By: Robyn
Subject: re: music

Well, Steve, you would know more than I. However, I remember this topic being discussed here before and someone else mentioned that it was passed over. At any rate, a great song and a great book, whatever the case!



Message: 9189 Posted: Mon Dec 06 11:10:10 1999 By: AmericaSL
Subject: Beckley/Lamm/Wilson CD Release Date

I got official word from Gerry that the Beckley/Lamm/Wilson CD will not be released by Chicago Records. Instead it will be released on a new label and it is currently scheduled to come out in April. Gerry said to tell everyone that he is sorry for the delay but he is committed to see that it will be released. Thanks everyone for your patience.



Message: 9188 Posted: Mon Dec 06 11:05:07 1999 By: Robyn
Subject: re: music

Jeff, If you haven't read the book, it's well worth it ( it IS a fairly long one) Wonderful Characters ( and it is not about BUNNIES-When I went to see the movie, there were some people behind me who were expecting a Disney-esque treatment- were THEY in for a rude awakening!) I highly recommend the book-- the movie didn't come close!



Message: 9187 Posted: Mon Dec 06 11:04:42 1999 By: AmericaSL
Subject: re: music

Jeff, the song "Watership Down" was written about Richard Adam's book of the same name. However, I haven't ever heard that it was written for the movie and then passed over. I think it was simply something that was going through Gerry's head at the time and he used his creative genius to make it into the fantastic song that it is.



Message: 9186 Posted: Mon Dec 06 10:48:32 1999 By: jeff brink
Subject: re: music

Thank you Robyn. My wife brought me a newspaper from England and "WATERSHIP DOWN" was in the comics section...It got me to wondering about Mr. Beckleys song.



Message: 9185 Posted: Mon Dec 06 09:27:09 1999 By: Robyn
Subject: Re: Music

I believe Gerry wrote it to be part of the annimated feature film, but was passed over for a cheesy song "Bright Eyes" sung by Art Garfunkel. What a shame. "Watership Down "captured the essence of one of my favorite books!



Message: 9184 Posted: Mon Dec 06 08:42:57 1999 By: jeff brink
Subject: Music

As far as the new and exciting things go...I hope that you're right Steve.

Steve, do you know if WATERSHIP DOWN was based on the Richard Adams book? My guess by the lyrics it is ...but I'm not sure.

Jeff B.



Message: 9183 Posted: Mon Dec 06 05:38:52 1999 By: rick
Subject: Re: Ponderables Part 2

Well, here goes
70's HAT TRICK It's the one that i consider my favourite most often ("my favourite" changes a fair bit as i'm sure it does with a lot of you). But it's the one i keep coming back to the most.Just about when it hits dusk (like it is on the back cover) i leave all the lights off and put this one on and more often than not i'ts my favourite AMERICA moment.
80's ALIBI If SILENT LETTER scraped into the 80's i would've picked it
but ALIBI is my favourite of the 80's probably on the back of RIGHT BACK TO ME and COASTLINE which are two of my favourite AMERICA songs of the last 20 years.
90's HOURGLASS I'll never forget looking in a record store in Wollongong and coming across this album.Coming from Australia i hadn't
heard anything about the boys for a long while,they hadn't toured since '91 and i was worried they might have broken up.So finding this album sure put a smile on my face and a spring in my step.
P.S Congtats. to the Aussie boys on winning the Davis Cup.



Message: 9182 Posted: Sun Dec 05 23:02:56 1999 By: Mark
Subject: Re: New and exciting things.

I have often wondered if our reaction to Oxygen's selection for a second single wasn't the reason a second single wasn't released. Oxygen had leaked that "Moment to Moment" was to be the second single, which lead to a fan "revolt" in favor of "Wednesday Morning." After that, then we never heard much about the second single. Who knows, maybe the new and exciting thing will be releasing a second single?



Message: 9181 Posted: Sun Dec 05 22:59:08 1999 By: Mark
Subject: Re: Ponderables Part 2

Best albums of the decade:

70s:
The first album

80s:
View From The Ground

90s:
Hourglass



Message: 9180 Posted: Sun Dec 05 22:12:20 1999 By: AmericaSL
Subject: Re: New and exciting things.

Kevin, you have good reason to say what you said. However, I believe you'll be wrong. It may not come as quickly as we would like it too, but I believe it will come.



Message: 9179 Posted: Sun Dec 05 21:42:33 1999 By: Dan
Subject: Re: New and exciting things.

Can anyone say "Cynical"????????



Message: 9178 Posted: Sun Dec 05 21:18:54 1999 By: KevinS.
Subject: New and exciting things.

Before anyone gets his hopes up about Oxygen saying there are some "new and exciting things in the future" for America, let's not forget that this IS a record label and as such will say WHATEVER IT TAKES to sell one more unit. There isn't anything necessarily wrong with that, that's how they make their living. No different than an athlete's agent or an actor's agent. What else would you expect them to say? That there's nothing on the horizon for America, check back with us in a few years? The entertainment industry has a unique way of using a lot of words to say nothing. Let's also not forget this was the same organization that 12 months ago told us they were releasing a second single from Human Nature, and even went so far as had us vote for it on the internet. It's just keeping the p.r. train moving, that's all.

KevinS.

Of course, I could be wrong.



Message: 9177 Posted: Sun Dec 05 19:19:09 1999 By: Robyn
Subject: Re: Ponderables Part 2

You and I think alike Johnny!



Message: 9176 Posted: Sun Dec 05 17:47:36 1999 By: Johnny
Subject: Ponderables Part 2

Robyn, Ponderables Part 2 is easier than Part 1. "Homecoming" is my choice for the 70s. It has it all...great songs and a great album cover, too. At the time, I remember wishing it had the lyrics to each song. For the 80s, I'll select "Alibi" and for the 90s, "Hourglass". If "Hourglass" would have had the support that "Human Nature" did, I think there would have been several strong hits. How "Garden Of Peace" was overlooked, is a mystery to me and a darn shame. Thankfully, "Hope" was recognized for its great qualities. Overall, I think "Hourglass" is Dewey and Gerry at their best!!! "Human Nature" is wonderful, too. "Wednesday Morning" and "FAMT" by Gerry and "Wheels", "Pages", and "World Alone" by Dewey are great stuff as if you all didn't already know! (LOL)



Message: 9175 Posted: Sun Dec 05 00:46:27 1999 By: ANDY
Subject: Re: Ponderables, Part 2

Even here, I can't follow the rules:

THE 70s- 1. First Album
2. Homecoming (tie)

The 80s 1. Alibi
2. View From the Ground (for sentimental reasons)
3. Your Move (for sentimental reasons)

The 90s HUMAN NATURE



Message: 9174 Posted: Sat Dec 04 20:25:52 1999 By: Robyn
Subject: Ponderables, Part 2

This one should be easier! Favorite album/CD--one from each decade.

Here are mine--Subject to change on a whim.

1970's- Homecoming- as near perfection as it gets IMHO

1980's - Alibi- The music has held up really well.

1990's- Hourglass ( altough if you ask me tomorrow, I may say Human Nature)



Message: 9173 Posted: Fri Dec 03 22:31:07 1999 By: Bones
Subject: Homecoming

After all these years, I still think that Homecoming is still my favorite. Listened to it back to back to back tonight and turned the volume up each time I played it. What a great selection of songs. Still would love a live CD sometime soon!!!!!!!!



Message: 9172 Posted: Fri Dec 03 21:23:28 1999 By: Spurs
Subject: Oxygen.

Hello everyone,I'm pleased that Oxygen is still supporting America,and felt Oxygen did an excellent job in promoting Human Nature, Karens efforts were in infomitive,and also seemed excited every step of the way as Human Nature was recorded and promoted,one only has to remember the ordinary promotion from Capitol,and American Gramaphone which I found strange in the latter case,why sign a group and not promote at all and then expect to sell? Then drop the guys from their label.I sincerely hope Oxygen gives the boys another shot,I just feel it in my bones that our hero's are gaining momentum and would be great to see it continue,i'm probably speaking for many fans when I say how dreadful it is to wait a number of years to hear a new recording of any sort,the wait after Capitols In Concert was agony.By the way had a look at Supertramps homepage and noticed that an old America cohort Tom Walsh had joined them on a number of dates.



Message: 9171 Posted: Fri Dec 03 18:44:05 1999 By: Robyn
Subject: oxygen's great things

Can I wish for a live album AND a Box set? I thought that I remember reading there was a five album contract or something. It's all good ( as the kids around here say!)



Message: 9170 Posted: Fri Dec 03 16:24:08 1999 By: Johnny
Subject: Re: Oxygen and America

Steve, that's great news about Oxygen still supporting America. I'm glad to be wrong. New and exciting things in the future? Sounds great!



Message: 9169 Posted: Fri Dec 03 11:47:00 1999 By: jimnak
Subject: Re: Oxygen and the Chat Folder

By the way Scott West at Rock&Roll.com is a major supporter of AMERICA. I know he is still working on completing the part 2 interview w/Ian Samwell, AMERICA's 1st producer. As you may know Rock&Roll.com named HUMAN NATURE CD of the year for 1999. Check out their Web site w/Steve's link.



Message: 9168 Posted: Fri Dec 03 11:02:23 1999 By: Brian
Subject: Re: Oxygen.

I don't know if America and Oxygen will come out with another project. I hope so. Getting "Human Nature" released was a blessing. It has been mentioned before and I agree that the future will see America releasing their own projects like what Beckley is doing with "Van Go Gan". They record it at Gerry's and go out and promote it through the net and at shows. Somebody posted a good idea months ago about handing out postcards at shows promoting a new project. A picture of the new project on the front and a list of websites and address to order merchandise. As I recall from the post the venue takes a healthy chunk out of merchandise sold there making it hard to sell CD's at a reasonable price and still make a profit. America plays so many dates in a year all over the world to people who may be seeing them for the first time. Maybe enough new people could be reached to make a project sucessful. The postcards would be souvineers of the show and introduce new fans to their music. Just some ramblings. Happy Holidays.



Message: 9167 Posted: Fri Dec 03 10:57:17 1999 By: AmericaSL
Subject: Oxygen and the Chat Folder

Here's a little bit of info and some clarification on the Chat Folder. First the info: I have been in touch with Karen and Oxygen is DEFINITELY still supporting America. Granted, it's not at the same level as when they were promoting Human Nature but Karen said that there would be some new and exciting things in the future. She didn't elaborate on what they were or when they would be here, so I'm not going to speculate.

Regarding the Chat Folder, it actually has nothing to do with Oxygen. The Chat Folder resides on a server located in Texas which is hosted by a company called Nanosoft, Corporation. My dad works for Nanosoft and they have been gracious enough to let me keep the Chat Folder there. Some day it may move to the Rock&Roll.com server which is run by Scott West. The America Fans web site, on the other hand, IS HOSTED by Oxygen and as stated in the previous posts, shows that Oxygen is still supporting our favorite band. The Oxygen server is located in New Jersey and has all of the King Biscuit, Oxygen, and America web sites. FYI: I was looking at the Web Site Statistics and found that the America Fans web site received over 80% of the activity on the server. That's another good reason for Oxygen to keep supporting the web site. It steers a lot of traffic their way.

--Steve



Message: 9166 Posted: Fri Dec 03 10:23:42 1999 By: Johnny
Subject: Re: Oxygen

Kevin, you are absolutely right about this chat folder still being accessible through King Biscuit. That's an excellent point. Even so, I still feel that the future between Oxygen and America is questionable. I guess time will tell. I sincerely hope I'm wrong.



Message: 9165 Posted: Fri Dec 03 09:16:47 1999 By: KevinS.
Subject: Oxygen.

I guess that since this Chat Folder is still around, so is Oxygen. The day we all try to dial it up and we see it's been moved off King Biscuit's then we'll all discover together the fate of America's relationship with Oxygen. This Chat Folder is a daily reminder of whether America is still part of Oxygen's roster.

Besides, I would bet that Human Nature is Oxygen's best selling album ever--and I mean of all time--and America is its top act. I really doubt Oxygen could get much better than America.

KevinS.



Message: 9164 Posted: Fri Dec 03 08:24:50 1999 By: Johnny
Subject: Re: Oxygen

Regarding Oxygen, it's my opinion ( and only my opinion) that Oxygen and America is probably finished with their association. I don't know why I feel this way, but I just have that idea. I could be totally all wet. Mark, I don't think Karen ever had a bad taste in her mouth. I think she's had a great time with us all. I know I had a wonderful time chatting with her. However, I do totally agree with you that Oxygen was probably hoping for bigger results from "Human Nature" and that future dealings are probably doubtful.



Message: 9163 Posted: Thu Dec 02 22:55:46 1999 By: leo
Subject: thanks

hello, i´m LEO at CHile, i want give thanks at people that answer me today. i would like know people and if you have more imformation or mp3 files, my e-mail is : LSHERNANDEZ@ENTELCHILE.NET
bye



Message: 9162 Posted: Thu Dec 02 22:39:02 1999 By: jimnak
Subject: Re: saludos

Don't forget the spanish version of SISTER GOLDEN HAIR. Do you know all the work that the legendary GERRY BECKLEY went thru to learn the spanish dialect & then sing the notes, just to record that 1 smash hit. He did utilize a spanish voice coach to help perfect it all.
I guess all in a lifes' work for AMERICA.



Message: 9161 Posted: Thu Dec 02 20:55:12 1999 By: Robyn
Subject: Re: saludos

yes but my Spanish es muy malo! ( very bad)



Message: 9160 Posted: Thu Dec 02 15:49:44 1999 By: Mark
Subject: Re: Oxygen

I bet Karen has been assigned to another project. But even if she continues to work with America in the future, I'm wondering if she will deal directly with this board again. Some of us were probably a bit too "forceful" in expressing our opinions on what Oxygen should be doing, etc..., so I don't know if it left a bad taste in her mouth or not. I am kind of wondering what Oxygen's future plans are for America, if they have made any yet. I bet HN wasn't as big a hit as they had hoped for, so I wonder if they will be interested in future projects.



Message: 9159 Posted: Thu Dec 02 08:35:51 1999 By: Shayne
Subject: Oxygen

I haven't posted much lately, but I have been "lurking". One thing that concerns me a bit...Has anyone heard from Oxygen? Or Karen? She was a regular here when the HUMAN NATURE was released. I'm not being critical, I'm just wondering...

Shayne



Message: 9158 Posted: Wed Dec 01 23:43:22 1999 By: AmericaSL
Subject: Re: saludos

Hola Leo. Thanks for saying "hi". I think you will find all of the information you're looking for on the America Fans Web Site. There aren't very many MP3 files on the web site, but there are quite a few RealAudio files and even more WAVE files. You can go to the Sound Clip Index Page for a list of all the sound files on the web site.

As far as your English goes, I think you do quite well. Most of us here don't speak English very well either (LOL). OK Robyn, I'll agree that you do!



Message: 9157 Posted: Wed Dec 01 22:26:30 1999 By: leo
Subject: saludos

hello, I´m chilean i'd like AMERICA but here in chile is very dificult find information about America, please i woud like that send me information and mp3 files.
bye
PD: sorry by my english, i speak spanish.
thanks



Message: 9156 Posted: Wed Dec 01 22:12:39 1999 By: Erin
Subject: nice drive

Heard Sister Golden Hair driving to school this morning. I know that's not unusual, but it absolutely made my day, especially when the DJ went on about how much she loves "those guys..." Hope everyone is having a great night!



Message: 9155 Posted: Wed Dec 01 21:25:46 1999 By: Robyn
Subject: Re: "Can't You Play Something Else?"

Well, it's what I WOULD have done!



Message: 9154 Posted: Wed Dec 01 10:23:11 1999 By: ShariL in San Diego
Subject: Maureen!

Okay, Maureen. You've given yourself away by posting your ticket stubs. I noticed they are COMP!
How did you pull that one off? Great pictures!
ShariL <><



Message: 9153 Posted: Wed Dec 01 10:13:02 1999 By: Johnny
Subject: "Can't You Play Something Else?"

I was chatting with Robyn direct by e-mail the other day, and I mentioned to her that my dad and I went to Albuquerque during the Thanksgiving holiday. On the 300 mile drive back, I was playing only America's music on the cassette player. After about 200 miles, my dad said, "Can't you play something else besides America?". Robyn said I should have replied with an okay and put on "Van Go Gan". I thought that was very funny!

After some thought though, I really think my dad wanted me to play something else because he was tired of hearing me "sing" along with The Guys. (LOL)



Message: 9152 Posted: Wed Dec 01 04:35:21 1999 By: jeff brink
Subject: Goodbye Highway

Thank you Steve. You are "The Man"!

J.B.



Message: 9151 Posted: Wed Dec 01 01:06:54 1999 By: AmericaSL
Subject: Re: To Steve

Bob, I can't say much more about the tapes other than what I've already mentioned here. I do know that they WILL be released in CD format, possibly as early as the first part of next year. They are NOT America tapes. They are tapes of Dewey and/or Gerry helping Dan on some of his solo albums. I don't know what songs are on them or anything else about them. As soon as I know more, I'll be sure to post it here. Sorry I can't give you more information, but that's all I know.



Message: 9150 Posted: Wed Dec 01 01:02:32 1999 By: AmericaSL
Subject: Re: live cd

Jeff, I'm afraid I don't know anything more about the Goodbye Highway remix. I know that Gordon told us a few months ago that it would come out soon, but I haven't heard anything since then. I'll send him a message and see what he can tell us.


[October] [January]
Last Revised: 1 January 2000