Guys In Thin Ties. Have you heard of them? Have you heard about the way they absolutely own the 1980s? We hope so, because they, along with Cheshi, Bad Seed Rising and Stitch Early, are going to be taking the Weinberg Center stage on Thursday, Feb. 16, as part of the Frederick Music Showcase Vol. 3. Bill Blythe, who plays bass for the band, was recently kind enough to offer up his own Celebrity Playlist regarding some of his all-time favorite songs. So, well, we thought we’d share. There’s some great stuff in here, friends, including a “Breaking Bad” reference. So, rock it. Roll it. And don’t forget: Tickets for the Showcase are currently $10. If you wait until the night of the show, that number goes up. Hey, friends. Just looking out for you. And you. And you. And you. OK. Anyway. Enjoy!
Badginer: ”Baby Blue”
This band was amazing. You’ll never hear another voice like Pete Ham. The story of Badfinger is tragic (look it up sometime). This song was produced by Todd Rundgren. I especially love the harmonies with Tom Evans. Plus, it was the last song played on “Breaking Bad.” Awesome!
Paul McCartney & Wings: “Baby I’m Amazed”
I love the Beatles and I really liked Paul McCartney & Wings. This version of the song (live) is my favorite. It’s raw and pure and live! Plus, I think the drums sound incredible. The guitar is spot on. Great song.
Christina Perri: “A Thousand Years”
Forget the fact that this is from the “Twilight” movies; this is such a beautiful song. My wife would listen to this song all of the time and every time I hear it, it reminds me of her.
Matchbox Twenty: “Long Day”
This was the first single off their debut album. I loved it from the start. Incredible vocals from Rob Thomas. It wasn’t a huge success on the radio, but it is, hands down, my favorite MB20 song.
Eagles: “New Kid In Town”
This song reminds me of my childhood. I remember my dad listening to this on his record player. What can I say about the Eagles … one of the greatest bands ever. Great song, amazing vocals and some of the best musicians on the planet.
Danny Wilson: “Mary’s Prayer”
It wouldn’t be fair if I didn’t have any songs from the ‘80s in this list! This song came out in 1987. This wasn’t a huge hit, but whenever I heard it on the radio, I stopped and listened. The vocals are beautiful and when Guys In Thin Ties plays this song, John Coghill does an amazing job.
Giant: “I’m A Believer”
This song came out in 1989. The band was made up of studio musicians. They rocked! Giant probably came out about two years too late. At the time, hair bands and ‘80s rock was starting to change. Dan Huff, the guitarist, is one of the most underrated guitar players ever – and he’s a great singer!
The Buggles: “Video Killed The Radio Star”
Ok, another ‘80s tune. Or, well, not exactly. The song was released in 1979 and later, was the first video to be played on MTV (Aug. 1, 1981). MTV was a huge musical influence on me. It was my after-school babysitter! This tune reminds of all the songs ever played on MTV.
The Hollies: “Carrie Anne”
Such a cool song. The hook is awesome. I’m a big fan of Graham Nash’s high harmonies. It’s a simple song and sometimes simple is good.
The Beatles: “A Day In The Life”
Someone asked me what my favorite Beatles song was once. Not hard for me: “A Day In The Life.” I like songs with several different parts, and I love John Lennon’s vocals on this song. The Beatles were influential on me and many of my favorite bands growing up.
