This past December 7 was the 100th birthday of Louis Prima. I'm not a biographer so I'm not going to give you a point by point, date by date on the life of Louis. I'm just wanted to show my appreciation for this "wild cat". And let's face it- this blog is about the soundtrack
I remember Louis Prima mostly from movies. His songs had a way of giving a charge to a film. There's "The Jungle Book"- as King Louie, the orangutan that wanted to be "just like me". Or "Big Night", where he's a huge part of the plot- used as a tool to ruin a couple of brothers who own an Italian restaurant. This film is worth a rental just to see Marc Anthony do some acting pre J-Lo.
His music was infectious- you could not move- never more evident in his composition "Sing Sing Sing".
Perhaps he is best known for his collaborations with his fourth wife Keely Smith. Together the revolutionized the Las Vegas lounge act. The show was called "The Wildest"- meaning that it was the "wildest" show in Las Vegas. To be fair- she is a fantastic singer but it was Louis Prima who created the "Keely Smith" persona (pageboy haircut, the silent observer)- together they were unbelievable.
"A Christmas Memory" is one of my favorite holiday stories. Written by Truman Capote, the story is of a unique friendship between a boy and his childlike older cousin. At this time of year it is not uncommon to reflect back on happier times and comparing them to the life we live now. Some memories are good- simple joys, fine foods, smiles and laughter Some memories bring a sense of sadness because some part of the memories are no longer with us. Still, it is a time to celebrate (even if you don't celebrate the holidays). Celebrate life. Celebrate the little things. Celebrate the memories.
Listen to "A Christmas Memory" by clicking on the title above or subscribe to the podcast on iTunes One Thousand Hertz.
I know it's been a while since I last posted but I've been in the middle of a big move from Oakland to Los Angeles. Here's some advice: when renting a truck don't believe the specs when they say a 10' truck is perfect for a 1 bedroom. It's like the measurements on your coffee maker carafe: it may have been true in the past but not now. Let's just say I'm glad it's over.
Moving to L.A. means I've left my radio position and am looking for another. In tribute to my 20 years at KPFA in Berkeley I am presenting "Instant Radio" written and directed by Bill Chessman. It's a full day of radio programming in 30 minutes which I think is becoming a reality at KPFA (not bitter- not bitter). Click on the title to listen or download on iTunes.
This is a new adventure for me. Here's to some great memories.
