Steven Hale

Nov 30, 2024 | medium.com | Steven Hale

Brian Eno, Another Green World (1975)Steven Hale·FollowPublished inThe Riff·2 min read·--Photo by Dave Hoefler on UnsplashEno brieflyAlthough Brian Eno’s contributions to music (and creative endeavors in general) are as diverse as they are influential, he is celebrated today largely for his pioneering work in ambient music (of his nine albums rated 5-star by AllMusic, almost half are not ambient).

Nov 20, 2024 | medium.com | Steven Hale

Beverly Kenney, Born to Be BlueSteven Hale·FollowPublished inThe Riff·3 min read·--Photo by Zoe on UnsplashWhen I was growing up in the early 60s, a popular local radio show called “Music for the Golden Hours” played schmaltzy instrumental tunes to help listeners transition from grueling 9–5 jobs to the comforts of home. Regardless of your age or musical taste, the need to unwind is stronger than ever.

Oct 1, 2024 | medium.com | Steven Hale

An Autumn Rate-a-Record challengeSteven Hale·FollowPublished inWaxing Lyrical·2 min read·--Photo by Ksenia Makagonova on Unsplash (An “autumn almanac”?)Of the four seasons, autumn is perhaps the least appreciated by popular musicians. Sure, there are the older standards “Autumn Leaves” (sung here by Edith Piaf) or “September Song” (unforgettably performed by the composer’s wife Lotte Lenya), but in pop music, spring, summer, and winter (thanks to Christmas) get all the glory.

Jul 2, 2024 | medium.com | Steven Hale

By Steven Hale The secular merges with the sacred in this country classicPhoto by Joël de Vriend on Unsplash I've observed several times on Medium that there are more country songs about trains than about successful relationships. One major exception is Roy Acuff's "Night Train to Memphis," which features both. Even more unusual is the fact that Acuff's performance bridges the gap between romantic (secular)...

Jul 2, 2024 | medium.com | Steven Hale

By Steven Hale Six dark songs that offer hopePhoto by Dan Meyers on Unsplash Although I'm a pessimist, I don't believe that there's no way out, just that the path is a difficult one. Fortunately, we can be blessed by music on our journey. But if any form of art is to guide us forward, it has to help us confront despair, not avoid it.