Post 224 - Fred Strauks & John Elder - Happy New Year

Fred Strauks, with Greg Macainsh, was the second founding member of Skyhooks. His association with the bass guitarist goes back ten years. He is a kick it around style drummer, versatile to fit into all the different shadings of the music he plays. Imants Alfred Strauks ("Freddy Kaboodleschnitzer") was born in Melbourne on the 25/12/50. Before Skyhooks he played with Spare Parts, Sound Pump, Clap Trap and Frame. He also played drums with Jo Jo Zep from 1982 - 1983. Here to download is a single he and trumpeter John Elder released from their mini LP in 1984 on Arika Records, "Happy New Year"(ASP 007). The guys wrote and produced the single. In the mid 90's he joined the Ol' Skydaddys and now he loves to renovate houses.

Post 223 - Jamie Redfern - When You Wish Upon A Star LP

Jamie Redfern's second single, When You Wish upon a Star (from Disney's Pinocchio (1940 film)) reached Number 31 on the national Australian chart in February 1972. The album of the same name peaked at Number 12 that same month. Here to download is that LP from '72 produced by Johnny Young for Festival Records. Following the release of the single Jenny in October 1974, and the album Jamie Redfern's Golden Hits during 1975, Redfern slipped from public view. By that stage his younger brother Derek had also entered the entertainment world - also as a member of the Young Talent Time team.

Post 222 - Richard Kaal - Lesser Folk / Yesterday Hey

In 1970 Richard Kaal joined the cast of "Hair", for twelve months, then joined "Jesus Christ Superstar" playing an apostle, understudy Simon, then understudy Jesus for a further eighteen months. Richard recorded with E.M.I. in 1970 and 1971 as a singer/songwriter, unfortunately airplay was very limited so he left in 1972. After playing in bands ranging from a ten piece called Nine Stage Horizon in Sydney, to a duo called Moondyne in Perth. Richard has been involved in music from the age of six, learning violin for ten years, after which he began playing guitar and singing. Here to download is his single from 1972 on H.M.V. Records "Lesser Folk" b/w "Yesterday Hey" (EA-9974). The A side was written by Brian Cadd & Don Mudie and the B side penned by Richard, the single was produced by Rod Coe. Richard gained a keen interest in sailing, buying, repairing and updating his boats. He finally bought 'Cadenza', a 36 foot Van de Stadt yawl, which he restored, lived on and sailed extensively with PA system on board. He is presently building a house, retreat and studio high in a mountain in Bali (Gunung Batukaru) to be more involved in his quest to study the music of Bali.

Post 221 - Jon Blanchfield - Son Of A Simple Man / Waltzing Matilda

"Son Of A Simple Man" was written by Brian Cadd and Don Mudie from Axiom who actually provided the backing for the song as well as Brian doing backing vocals. The song was issued by RCA in 1969 and was written about bush ranger Ned Kelly. Jon had several hits in his hometown of Brisbane; this was his 7th RCA single, again a non charter in Melbourne and Sydney despite going to #1 in Tasmania. Here to download is that single "Son of a Simple Man" b/w "Waltzing Matilda" (101874).

Post 220 - Skyhooks - Sweet Sister / Guitar Thunders In My Hand

From the Vault Magazine vol 1 #4 The Skyhooks Issue, limited copies contained the rare Skyhooks flexi-disc with "Sweet Sister" b/w "Guitar Thunders in my hand" it came out in '88. Both tracks were written by Greg Macainsh. "Sweet Sister" has Shirley on vocals and "Guitar Thunders In My Hand" has Tony Williams on lead. "Sweet Sister" turned up on the Demos And Dialogue CD but I'm sure Guitar Thunders In My Hand has never seen CD. Sadly the magazine called it a day sometime during Volume two. The Hooks issue is now part of the Skyhooks Club Membership kit without the Flexi.

Post 219 - Jimmy Barnes - Merry Christmas Everybody

In 1995 Jimmy Barnes recorded his version of Slade's 1973 Christmas hit "Merry Christmas Everybody" written by guitarist Noddy Holder and bassist Jim Lea. Before its release, "Merry Christmas Everybody" received about half a million advance orders. 350,000 copies were bought upon its release on 7 December 1973. Jimmy's version was produced by Jimmy and Guy Davies and was recorded at Hattytown Studios London. Here to download is his version of Slade's classic with the help of musicians Guy Davies and Edward Pearson.Flac

Post 218 - Billy Thorpe & The Aztecs - Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas

In the early '90s, Billy Thorpe and family came back to Australia for good. Renewed interest in Billy's amazing body of work led to the successful launch of a 3CD set, "Lock Up Your Mothers" and national concerts again reuniting the classic Sunbury Aztecs line up. Billy continued to record and found a lucrative sideline in advertising composition like the Friday Night Football TV promo for the 9 Network. He also penned two highly entertaining autobiographical books, and in 1994 Billy, Gil, Warren and Paul put down the Christmas track here for you to download "Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas" produced by Billy at Metropolis Studios. (Mrs. Ozzie's Favourite)

Post 217 - Ross Wilson & The Salvation Army Band - Born Again

Ross "The Boss" Wilson teaming up with The Salvation Army Band in 1993 to bring you "Born Again" written by Ross and Eris O'Brien, the song was produced by Lindsay Field and Ross. Eris O'Brien also co wrote "The Christmas Bug" with Ross for Daddy Cool in 2005. In August of this year Ross celebrated 45 years in music with the commemorative "5 Decades of Cool" concert at the Palais Theatre, St Kilda, Melbourne. Mrs. Ozzie and myself were there and what a concert it was and the DVD of the concert was released in November what a nice Christmas present.

Post 216 - Cotton Keays & Morris - We Three Kings

Cotton Keays & Morris formed in 2000 consisting of singer songwriters Darryl Cotton, Jim Keays and Russell Morris. Each has written and recorded numerous hit songs since the 1960s. The band tours the land regularly, their stage show featuring the hits of each member and their previous groups. Here to download is their Christmas song "We Three Kings" produced by Darryl, Jim and Russell with the help of Tony Day (drums), Rob Hornbuckie (bass), Stuart Fraser (guitar), Adrian Scott (keyboards) and John Kendall on fiddle.

Post 215 - Frankie J Holden - Santa Claus Is Coming To Town

Front man for Ol' 55 Frankie J Holden is back with another Christmas song for you to download this time with "Santa Claus Is Coming To Town" produced by ex Flying Circus keyboard player Sam See in 1996. Frankie is joined by Stuart Fraser (guitar), Chris Bekker (bass), Angus Burchall (drums), Tibor Gyapjas (trumpet), Lex Tier (trombone), Steve Williams (sax), Penny Dyer and Angela Lilbrandi (backing vocals) and Sam See (piano).

Post 214 - Angry Anderson - Christmas Day Australia Way

Born Gary Anderson on the 5th of August 1947 in Melbourne, he first came to notice as the vocalist with Buster Brown, a band he fronted between 1973 and 1975. Along with himself, the original line up also featured drummer Phil Rudd, who would leave the group in 1974 to join AC/DC. Buster Brown released an album, Something to Say in 1975, before disbanding the same year. Rose Tattoo had been formed by Peter Wells of the heavy metal band Buffalo. Anderson replaced the group's original singer Tony Lake and when drummer Michael Vandersluys departed soon afterwards, he was replaced by Dallas Royal, who had been Rudd's replacement in Buster Brown. Anderson led Rose Tattoo through six studio albums until disbanding the group in 1987. He is also recognized for his acting roles and his charity work. On Australia Day , 1993, he was made a Member of the Order of Australia for his role as a youth advocate. Here to download is Angry's Christmas track "Christmas Day Australia Way" from 2003. He is backed by Adam Silady, Rex Goh and Dave Lesley on guitars, Anthony Corrie drums, Lorenzo Toppano keyboards and Cheryl Webb, Cassandra Delaney on backing vocals. Today, Anderson is a single father of four, and lives in Sydney. Having lost four former band mates (Royal, Wells, Ian Rilen and Lobby Lloyde), Anderson became an advocate for men's health. He currently appears in a TV campaign promoting awareness of prostate cancer.

Post 213 - The Reels - 5 Great gifts Ideas From The Reels EP

The Reels originated with the group Native Son which was formed in the country town of Dubbo, New South Wales and played in the area for about three years, mainly playing cover versions of current and classic hits. After moving to Sydney in 1978 they changed the band's name to The Brucelanders. They gradually developed an original repertoire of fast paced, quirky pop and ska music, and their energetic performances gained them a strong following on the thriving east coast live music scene at that time. They were also given enormous support in Sydney by the ABC's rock radio station Double J. In 1979 they secured a recording contract with the Australian branch of the Mercury Records label, changed their name to The Reels and released their debut single, "Love Will Find A Way" and its follow-up "Prefab Heart." In mid 1980 the group undertook the innovative Reels By Rail tour, which saw them using rail transport to travel to all the destinations on their tour. At the end of the year, returning to their roots as a covers band, they released a five track Christmas EP, 5 Great Gift Ideas From The Reels. Here to download is that EP on Mercury Records "5 Great gifts Ideas From The Reels" (6235 014)

Post 212 - Renee Geyer - Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas

Renée Rebecca Geyer was born on 11th of September 1953, in Melbourne to a Hungarian Jewish father, Edward Geyer, and a Slovakian holocaust survivor mother, as the youngest of three children. Geyer was named Renée for another holocaust survivor who had helped her mother in Auschwitz after Josef Mengele had assigned the rest of her mother's family to death. At a young age, the Geyers moved to Sydney where her parents were managers of a migrant hostel. Geyer describes herself as a problem child, she attended various schools and was expelled from a private school, Methodist Ladies College, for petty stealing. Her first job was as a receptionist for the Australian Law Society. In 1970, at the age of 16, Geyer's singing career began as a vocalist with jazz blues band Dry Red, for her audition she sang The Bee Gees' hit "To Love Somebody." She left Dry Red for other bands including the more accomplished jazz rock group Sun. The group released one album, Sun 1972 in August 1972, Geyer had already departed in mid 1972 and later joined Mother Earth. RCA, who had released Sun's album,then signed Geyer to a solo contract; however, when it came time to record her first solo album, Geyer, already showing signs of her self proclaimed "Difficult Woman" tag, insisted that Mother Earth back her on the album. Here to download is Renee's Christmas song "Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas" from 2002, she was backed on this by muso's Steve Hadley (bass), Bruce Hames (keyboards), Peter Luscombe (drums) and Shane O'Mara (guitar) who also produced the song.

Post 211 - Jay Justin - Letter To Santa Claus / White Christmas

It's been over 45 years since "Proud of You" first hit the charts on its way to a national Number 1. Jay was unusual in that he actually wrote his own songs, as well as writing or helping to write hits for others. A school girl named Patricia Amphlett was one of his discoveries. At the age of 13, she'd appeared on the TV show, Opportunity Knocks but her career really took off when Jay saw her performing at the Bronte Surf Club and introduced her to EMI records. He and EMI producer Joe Halford wrote the 2 songs which would be Little Pattie's first single release "He's My Blonde-Headed Stompie-Wompie Real Gone Surfer Boy" on the A side and "Stompin' at Maroubra" on the B side. Jay had a number of other hits himself, including "Reminiscing." Here to download is Jay's Christmas single recorded on Jamboree Records "Letter To Santa Claus" b/w "White Christmas" (J1) backing vocal by the Peakhurst Girls High School and produced by Jay and Peter Dilosa.

Post 210 - Kamahl - White Christmas / Silent Night

Kamahl who's real name is Kandiah Kamalesvaran was born on the 13th of November 1934 who is perhaps best known for his song "The Elephant Song", as well as his sensitive interpretations of standards in the repertoire of popular music. Kamahl began his music career in small time band "Radial Arm". At his first public performance in 1958 he shortened his name to Kamal, but the Master of Ceremonies announced him as "Camel". After that he changed the spelling to Kamahl. Kamahl has performed at the London Palladium and Carnegie Hall, as well as pubs and clubs throughout Australia. In 1982 Queen Elizabeth II asked him to give a Royal Command performance in Brisbane for the Commonwealth Games there, and in 1984, he sang with Cathy Lee Johnson at the LA Variety Telethon. Here to download from 1977 is his Christmas single recorded for Philips Records "White Christmas" b/w "Silent Night" (6037 103).

Post 209 - Bert Newton - Bring Back The Spirit Of Christmas

Albert Watson "Bert" Newton, AM, MBE, was born on the 23rd of July 1938, he is a multiple Gold Logie winning Australian television, radio, film, stage performer and author. Newton was born in Fitzroy, an inner suburb of Melbourne, Victoria. Bert lived at home with his mother until the age of 36, prompting widespread gossip that he was gay. In 1974 he married Patti McGrath, a co-worker. The Newtons have a son, Matthew, and a daughter, Lauren. To write all about Bert's career in television, radio and stage it would be many pages but if you are interested go to http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bert_Newton. Here to download is Bert's Christmas single from 1979 on Fable Records "Bring Back The Spirit Of Christmas" (FB 1882). The B side was another Christmas single from 1981 by radio D.J. Keith McGowan "A Little Boys Christmas Prayer" This single was released as a special edition in 1981.  Bert was backed by the Debney Park High School Band.

Post 208 - Johnny Farnham - Christmas Is LP

Johnny Farnham's first #1 single on the Go-Set National Singles Charts was the novelty song "Sadie (The Cleaning Lady)" released in 1967. Selling 180 000 copies, "Sadie" was the highest selling single by an Australian artist of the decade. His first Christmas song was a non-album single, "I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus" b/w "The Little Boy That Santa Claus Forgot". Here to download out of December 1970 is Johnny's Christmas LP "Christmas Is" (SOEX 9700). The single, "Christmas Happy", was also released in December. The album was re-released as Memories of Christmas on 13 November 1995 and again on 6 December 1997 with different covers each time. The album was produced by Howard Gable for EMI/Columbia.

Post 207 - Frankie Davidson - All I Want For Christmas Is My Two Front Teeth / I Want A Snorkersaurus For Christmas

Here are a couple of tracks from Frankie's 1974 LP for M7 Records "A Generation Of Children's Hits". Seeing there were a couple of Christmas songs on the album I thought we would pop them on now and put the rest of the LP on at a later date. So here to download are "All I Want For Christmas Is My Two Front Teeth" / "I Want A Snorkersaurus For Christmas" (MLX 081)

Post 206 - Joe Dolce - Christmas In Australia LP

1981 Guiseppi was back this time with a single "Christmas In Australia" followed by the LP of the same name. There is a good collection of Christmas songs with a Italian version of The 12 Days Of Christmas. Mary Wilson of The Supremes does some great backing vocals on Jingle Bell Rock and Joey Perrone (Young Talent Time) sings as Little Guiseppi on I Saw Mama Kissing Santa Claus. Released on Hammard Records in 1981 and produced by Steve Tyrell, other musicians on this LP are Linda George (backing vocals), Rick Formosa (L.R.B.) guitar, Charles Gauld (Thunderbirds) guitar, Roger McLachlan (L.R.B.) bass, David Allardice Keyboards, Adrian Paine drums and Julie McKenna and Peter Roberts backing vocals. Here to download is the album "Christmas In Australia" (HAM 065).

Post 205 - Robie Porter - Santa Claus (And We Love Him)

Robie Porter was born in 1942 in Sydney, New South Wales. He is an Australian country, pop/rock musician, producer and record label owner. Beginning in 1959 he performed under the stage name Rob E.G. and recorded lap steel guitar instrumentals. Sydney TV show Bandstand featured hits from the UK and US played by Australian artists, as Rob E.G., Porter made his TV debut in 1959 performing the lap steel guitar instrumental "Sleepwalk" originally by Santo & Johnny. He recorded top ten hits in Sydney that included, "Si Senor (I Theenk)" which peaked at #1 in May 1962, "Jezebel" at #2 in May 1963, and "55 Days at Peking" at #1 in July; and the vocal single "When You're Not Near" at #7 in August 1964. Although these were not as popular in Melbourne. On the advice of The Beatles' manager, Brian Epstein, Porter, moved to the UK in 1964 where he wrote and recorded singles for Festival Records but had no chart success. During 1967 he moved to the USA and appeared in several television shows. In 1970, Porter moved back in Australia where he purchased a controlling share of independent record label, Sparmac. He recorded three of his own singles for Sparmac before focusing on managing and producing records. Porter produced three of Daddy Cool's LPs including their debut 1971 album, Daddy Who? Daddy Cool, which went to #1. Other Sparmac artists included Rick Springfield & Healing Force. In 1973 Porter started a new label, Wizard in partnership with Steve Binder, with Daddy Cool and Springfield the new label also signed Hush, Mighty Kong and Marcia Hines. In the 80s, Porter produced albums for Air Supply, Tommy Emmanuel and The Nauts. He returned to the US to live and worked in television production and as a horse breeder. Here to download is he's 1970 single Santa Claus (And We Love Him) (SPR006) penned by Robie. This was one of 3 singles he recorded for his Sparmac label, the others were "Gemini" 1970 and "Try And Find More Love" 1971. The B side is also here to download, the same song only a Funky Version.

Post 204 - The Incredible Penguins - Happy Xmas (War Is Over)

This John Lennon song was a top 5 hit for John & Yoko in Britain in 1972. In 1985 the Lennon classic became a fundraiser for threatened southern Australian fairy penguins, when Ian Molly Meldrum convened a star studded session. The Incredible Penguins were oddly enough an actual band that happened to enjoy the guest vocal backing of Angry Anderson, Jim Keays, John Farnham, Brian Mannix, Colleen Hewitt, Steve Gilpin, Venetta Fields, Colin Hay, Wendy Stapleton, Brain Canham, Hare Krishna Chorus and Bob Geldof. Here to download is that single along with the Radio Mix and Instrumental version "Happy Xmas (War Is Over)" (X13232). The single was produced by Ian Molly Meldrum and recorded at Flagstaff Studios Melbourne for Mushroom Records on October 21,22,26 & 31.

Post 203 - Dalvanius & The Fascinations - Mary's Boy Child

I deliberately kept this one back for this time of the year, this is the B side of post #76 "Canberra, We're Watching You" a few people have asked why didn't we put the B side on and now you know why. "Mary's Boy Child" (K-6210) recorded for Infinity Records in 1975 and like it's A side was produced by Sherbet's Garth Porter and Clive Shakespeare with Dalvanius Prine for Sherbet Productions.

Post 202 - Ol' 55 - Little Saint Nick

(I Want A) Rockin' Christmas is the most successful Australian rock Christmas hit of all. It went top ten nationally and spent seven weeks at #1 in Melbourne going well into January when it had to be dropped from radio play lists while still at #1. The B side was a cover of the Beach Boys "Little Saint Nick" from 1964. The song was also very popular and many Ol' 55 fans thought it was a double A sided single. Here to download from 1976 is "Little Saint Nick" (K 6587). Recorded for Mushroom Records and produced by Charles Fisher. 

Post 201 - Tony Barber - Sarah Jane

Anthony "Tony" Ferraro Barber was born on the 28th March 1940 in Oldham, Lancashire, England. He is an Australian game show host and television personality. By the end of 1962, Barber was a leading Perth radio announcer as well as the star of a weekly floor show at the Charles Hotel and he also performed twice-weekly at the Lido Coral Room where he did impressions of Johnny Mathis and Paul Anka before leaving Western Australia for New South Wales. While Barber is more noted for his role as host of Sale of the Century, his origins in television date back to the 1970s where he hosted the then popular Seven Network game show, Great Temptation. Presented with co-host Barbie Rogers, the show was successful enough for the network that both daytime and prime time editions of the show were screened. The show only faltered when in 1974, Seven decided to move the show from its 7pm timeslot to the later 8.30pm timeslot in an effort to drag viewers away from the then popular series Number 96 screening on the 10 Network. Number 96 won the ratings battle and Great Temptation aired its last show in 1975. Barber then hosted the Australian version of Family Feud from 1977 until 1979. Tony also made many records over the years but one that stands out was his Christmas song about a Christmas letter written by "Sarah Jane" (101997) recorded on RCA Records and produced by Rocky Thomas. Tony currently hosts a small competition on the Australian Cable TV network Foxtel seven nights a week.

Post 200 - Zu Gospel Singers - Black Christmas

Les Gock is a successful entrepreneur and businessman. He founded Song Zu which has a reputation throughout the world for music in advertising and other commissioned soundtracks. Les joined glam rockers Hush in 1971. He was also a writer and co-producer, occupations that earned him 12 Gold Awards. In 1991 Les with Rajah Kamahl and engineer Richard Lush put together the Zu Gospel Singers record of Irving Berlin's White Christmas here for you to download, entilted "Black Christmas" (ZU 251291). The Zu Gospel Singers were Lori Balmer, Zena Benjamin, Erana Clark (vocal coach for Australian Idol), Marica Hines, Chris Lloyds, Neil Simmonds Smith, Darlene Zschech and Kamahl.

Post 199 - Hush - White Christmas

In December 1972 Hush issued a reggae cover of Irving Berlin's "White Christmas" (EPW 263) for Warner. Hush were regular performers on Countdown, Australia’s much loved music show, including an unforgettable performance for the first colour episode to go to air. Keith Lamb and Les Gock co-compared Countdown on several occasions. This version comes from the EP "Hush Power". This song was also released as a single, but none of the books name a B side. It's a bit of mystery....

Post 198 - Austen Tayshus - How They Put The X Into Christmas / The Pope Downunder

As Austen says in the intro to this not so Christmas classic "It's a quicky B side" the A side being "The Pope Downunder" featuring Wendy Matthews on backing vocals. Seeing it's the Christmas season we thought we would put the B side up as the main attraction. I'm sure it didn't get a lot of air play on radio at Christmastime of 1986. Recorded for Bigtime Records in 1986 and penned by Trevor Farrant. Here to download is "How They Put The X Into Christmas" b/w “The Pope Down Under” (TAYSH 1). One Christmas carol you better not play in front of the kids.

Post 197 - Johnny Chester & Jigsaw - Billy's Comin' Home For Christmas

Johnny Chester made records for Fable from 1970 until 1976. He recorded with both studio musicians and Jigsaw who became his permanent backing band while Johnny produced their records. In 1971 they released their first album for Fable titled Johnny Chester and Jigsaw, from which the single "Shame and Scandal in the Family" was released. It went to Number One in several states. The B side here for you to download was the Christmas song "Billy's Comin' Home For Christmas" (FB-099). The song was penned by Johnny and the single produced by him as well. In1972 he releases a second Fable Album Going Places' and two singles "Ready Mixed Revenge" and "Midnight Bus".

Post 196 - Shirley - Christmastime In The Neighbourhood / Christmas Children

This double A sided single was released by Skyhooks front man Graeme Shirley Strachan. After leaving the band in June 1978 he stepped into a career as a popular T.V./radio presenter. He became host of the children's T.V. show Shirl's Neighbourhood, surrounded by such characters as Norm, Ol Possum and Claude The Crow. Here to download is the double A single recorded for Mushroom Records in 1979 "Christmastime In The Neighbourhood" b/w "Christmas Children" (K 7712) produced by Mike Brady.

Post 195 - Rolf Harris - Rolf's Christmas

Rolf Harris released this EP in November 1979 on Festival Records although it was a 7" record it played at 33 r.p.m. It featured 6 songs including Rolf's biggest Christmas track "Six White Boomers" Here to download is that EP "Rolf's Christmas" (SMX-57891). Rolf Harris has announced he is teaming up with Status Quo singer and guitarist Rick Parfitt to release a Christmas single this year. The new single, "Christmas In The Sun", is scheduled for release on 7th December. I have heard the single and being a Rolf and Quo fan for many years it just doesn't get any better then this. If you want to see the film clip of the song click here http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9VMgzkzQR_8

Post 194 - Ol' Skydaddys - Rockin' Christmas

In 1996, Bongo Starkie and Freddy Strauks joined forces with Ross Hannaford and Wayne Duncan from Daddy Cool, plus Frankie J. Holden and Wilbur Wilde from Ol' 55 as Ol' Skydaddys in order to play the cabaret/club circuit. Their first recording and I think their last was this Christmas classic a cover of Ol' 55's "Rockin Christmas" (TL-001) from the various artist album The Great Aussie Christmas. I can't seem to find any other recordings by Ol' Skydaddys and what a pity, with a line up like this I'm sure there would have been some great songs by these guys.

Post 193 - Sanity Clause - Merry Bloody Xmas / Gaylene (I Left A Broken 'Eart In Broken 'Ill)

Sanity Clause?? I hear you ask well there is nothing on Sanity that I can find except that the A side was written by Allan Caswell and Mick Hamilton whether it's these guys under the alias of Sanity Clause who knows. But it's a great little Christmas ditty and the B side was penned by Caswell, Hamilton and Laurie Allen. It was produced for Sanity Clause Productions at Airborne Studios Sydney for RCA Records in 1981. Here to download is "Merry Bloody Xmas" b/w "Gaylene (I Left A Broken 'Eart In Broken 'Ill)" (103879) I think you'll enjoy this record, very amusing. "UPDATE" I just contacted Allan Caswell and he told me that it was "Mick Hamilton and I....it was a name we came up with for fun"...Thanks Allan 9/11/2014

Post 192 - The Tremble M's - We Wish You A Mmmerry Christmas / The Triple M Theme

Post 191 marks the beginning of the Christmas Season for the Ozzie Music Man blog. This month we will only post Australian Christmas music. This little Christmas single was put together by the 1985 Triple M team. recorded for Mushroom Records with the B side featuring Dr. Dan with the Triple M Theme. The single was produced by Chris Gilbey and Rod Thomas. Here to download is "We Wish You A MMMerry Christmas" b/w "The Triple M Theme" (K-9909)

Post 191 - Les Gock - Everywhere I Go / (I Think I'm) Falling In Love Again

Les Gock originally became famous through joining Hush in 1971. As well as being a guitarist, Les was also a writer and co-producer. After leaving Hush, Gock became a successful music and sound design director in film and television soundtracks. Since that time Gock has earned major awards for music excellence, including Gold Clios, Facts Awards, and New York International Advertising Festival Awards. Gock's reputation as a successful entrepreneur and businessman has been well demonstrated through the success of the company he founded "Song Zu" which has a reputation throughout the world in music for advertising and other commissioned soundtracks. As a solo artist Les released a single in 1977 here for you to download "Everywhere I Go" b/w "(I Think I'm) Falling In Love Again" (ZS-182) produced by Robbie Porter and Les for Wizard Records. Both songs were written by Les.

Post 190 - Jamie Redfern - Sitting On Top Of The World LP

Jamie Redfern was born on the 9th of April 1957. When Jamie was three years of age, he used to go down the street and sing for the ladies and they'd offer him an ice-cream in the streets of Liverpool, England, where he was born. Shortly after his first paid gig, the family moved to Australia where the young Jamie really found his voice. And there was an audition for a show called Brian and the juniors his Dad said, "You want to go audition for that?" Jamie said, "Yeah." And so he did. Jamie took the show by storm and so started his remarkable career. After Brian and the juniors, Jamie moved on seamlessly to 'Young Talent Time'. He released a single "The Little White Cloud That Cried" in July 1971 that went #1 in Melbourne and Top 20 nationally. In August of 1971 Jamie was crowned King of Pop. It was at these awards when he was presented the King of Pop award by Liberace that his life changed forever. Liberace had said he had been watching the show and he enjoyed all the performers who have been on and that little boy, that Jamie, he's fantastic. He said I'd like to take him back to the States. Johnny Young thought he was only joking and, a few days later, they got a call from Seymour Heller. He rang and said, "Look, we really would like to take him to America and have him as a special guest on Liberace's program." Some of Jamie's fondest memories of touring with Liberace would have been many things. Meeting some of the world's greatest entertainers and sitting on Ginger Rogers's knee. Meeting Jack Benny, Jamie taught Michael Jackson tenpin bowling. Elvis sent Jamie a floral guitar...when they opened in Las Vegas. It was a floral guitar to say congratulations. They were supposed to have a jam session. And there was a phone call when they were in Memphis at the gig and Liberace called him over and put him on the phone. Elvis apologised and said that Lisa Marie had taken ill and he had to take off. To make up for that, he let Jamie borrow his limousine for two weeks. Here to download is his 2nd LP "Sitting On Top Of The World" (FL 34671) recorded on Festival Records in 1972 and produced by Johnny Young. . Jamie is now married with two daughters and hosts his own national top rating television show Jamie Redfern's Superkids which airs weekly on Foxtels Aurora channel 183.

Post 189 - Lionel Rose - I Thank You LP

This post has been updated with the original Festival issue of the LP. The Summit issue quality is poor in comparison. Thanks to Woodynet for this one. Lionel Edward Rose, MBE born on the 21st of June 1948 is an Australian bantamweight boxer, now retired, who became the first Aboriginal in boxing history to win a world title. Born and raised at Jackson's Track near the Victorian town of Warragul, Rose grew up in hardship, learning to box from his father, Roy, a useful fighter on the tent-show circuit. According to the boxing historian Grantlee Kieza, Rose "sparred with rags on his hands in a ring made from fencing wire stretched between trees". Rose began his professional boxing career on 9th of September 1969, outpointing Mario Magriss over eight rounds. He had a record of eight wins and one loss, with one knockout. Rose was Australian of the Year in 1968, the first Aboriginal to be awarded the honour. That same year he was appointed a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE). During his off time from boxing in the 1970s, Rose embarked on a successful singing career in Australia having hits with "I Thank You" and "Please Remember Me" both songs penned by Johnny Young in 1970. Here to download is his LP for Festival Records "I Thank You" (FL-33,741) produced by Johnny Young. In 1996, Rose presented young burns attack victim Tjandamurra O'Shane with his world title belt, hoping to speed the youngster's recovery. O'Shane, also an Aborigine, had been the victim of an horrific attack in Cairns the previous year. In 2007 Rose suffered a stroke that left him with speech and movement difficulties. Rose is the god father of Ruby Rose Langenheim, an MTV VJ.

Post 188 - The Hawking Brothers - The Melbourne Cup / Eumerella Shore

The Hawking Brothers are renowned for their impeccable harmonies and acoustic instrument ability. Russ born 1931 and Alan 1933 formed a hugely successful band from a background of live radio shows with The Hillbilly Club and Melbourne Trailblazers. They had a abundant recording career dating from as early as 1955 when they first recorded for Regal Zonophone. In 1975 they toured Canada and the U.S and became the only Australian band to play America's Grand Ole Opry. When Russ died in 1976, the band continued under Alan's direction. They disbanded in 1980 with Alan going solo until his death in 1988.The Hawking Brothers won Golden Guitars in 1974 and 1978.They produced many hits. Here to download is their 1973 single on Fable "The Melbourne Cup" b/w "Eumerella Shore" (FB-196). I thought this was fitting today as The Melbourne Cup, the race that stops the nation, took place today. Congratulations to Shocking the horse that powered home in the final straight, giving jockey Corey Brown his first Melbourne Cup victory.

Post 187 - Rolf Harris - The Big Black Hat

Yet another Rolf Harris song that no longer seems to be on CD. This was the B side of "Tie Me Kangaroo Down, Sport" from 1963 it was also on "The Kangaroo" EP which is where I got this version from the 3 other songs on the EP are still available on CD at this time. So enjoy "The Big Black Hat" (SEGO 70119) here to download on Columbia Records.

Post 186 - Neil Williams & Kerrie Biddell - Hail All Hail / My Boy's Different

Kerrie Biddel auditioned in 1968 at the age of 21 as vocalist for the band Affairs and became their lead singer. They won the National Battle of the Sounds and in 1970 went to England. While in England the members found different directions and Kerrie came back to Australia. She began appearing with the Daly Wilson Big Band while with them she married David Glyde front man for Sounds Incorporated. In that year they moved to Canada with the help of Phil Birnbaum who briefly managed her for a year. She lived in Toronto and made her living doing session work. After she returned to Australia and signing to Bootleg Records she started working on an LP straight away the S/T LP was a best seller 1973. Here to download from "Man Of Sorrows" with Neil Williams recorded for H.M.V. Records "Hail All Hail" b/w "My Boy's Different" (EA-9890) from 1972. Both sides are from "Man Of Sorrows" with the B side sang by Kerrie.

Post 185 - Greg Bonham - Just A Little Guy / One Girl Ago

Greg Bonham was raised on his father's sheep farm in Wagga Wagga, with two brothers and two sisters and from the age of eleven was fronting the Bonham kids own band, but a network talent quest called "Showcase", which he won hands down, was soon to bring him national recognition and Greg Bonham's solo career has begun. Greg decided to seriously study music and finally he scored top honours at Sydney's conservatorium of music. With the farm far behind him, now based in Sydney. Starring in Hilton Hotels and entertaining U.S. military personnel. The ten year period bases in Sydney armed Greg with seven single recordings, a live album at Sydney's spectacular Opera House and over 150 national television appearances but finally ambition urged him overseas, to England. After five years in England, an engagement in Miami Florida brought Greg to the U.S.A. Merv Griffin introduced him to American television audiences, leading to major booking throughout the country. Here to download is Greg's first single for Festival Records in 1968 "Just A Little Guy" b/w "One Girl Ago" (FK-2616) produced by John Egginton. Greg's leisure time is fishing, especially now, from his new waterfront home on North Miami Beach, which he shares with his wife, Liz and daughter Rebel.

Post 184 - Cash Backman - Caroline / Can't Bring Myself To Tell You

Cash, whose real name is Arvids Krastins was born of Latvian parents. He grew up in Ascot Vale a Melbourne suburb. At the age of 15 he began singing and writing songs, his first hit was a cover of Jim Stafford's hit "My Girl Bill" for Image Records in 1974. The song became a top 10 hit. His next chart success was in February 1975, with another cover, this time Jim Reeve's "He'll Have To Go". He was also developing into an actor with roles in Division 4 and Homicide as a tough man. Here to download is Cash's 1976 single "Caroline" b/w "Can't Bring Myself To Tell You" (RB-271) from his 2nd LP “A Little Bit Of Understanding” on Rainbow Records. "Caroline" was about his wife.

Post 183 - Breakaway - God Give Us Strength / I Don't Know Why

I was unable to find a lot on this band except it must have been a popular name in the 70's. There was The Breakaway in Perth between 75-76, Hobart also had The Breakaway 68-70 and Melbourne had The Breakaways from 62-66. Breakaway here for you to download are from Brisbane, members were Ray Van Ross and Peter Robbins. Recorded for Sunshine Records they released two singles "Country Boy" 1974 and also out of '74 their first single "God Give Us Strength" b/w "I Don't Know Why" (K-5467)

Post 182 - Ted Maher - Tracy / Good Morning World

Here is another song that could have come from the Concert For Darwin LP. This time it's Ted Maher with his song about Cyclone Tracy, which took most Darwin residents by surprise. Despite several warnings the people of Darwin did not evacuate or prepare for the cyclone. Many residents continued to prepare for Christmas, and many attended Christmas parties, despite the increasing winds and heavy rain. But who is Ted Maher? there is nothing on the net that I can find about this singer the only Ted Maher on the net is an American registered nurse convicted of arson in a 1999, and I'm sure it's not this Ted. The single was released on M7 Records in 1975 and both sides of the single were written by E. Maher and produced by Rory Thomas. Here to download is that single "Tracy" b/w "Good Morning World" (MS-092).

Post 181 - Karen Knowles - Why Won't You Explain / Rock Me

Karen Knowles was born on the 4th of March 1964 and was educated in Melbourne at the Methodist Ladies' College. She became nationally famous on the popular television program Young Talent Time, where she was a member of the Young Talent Team from 1975 to 1980. In 1980 she signed with Fable Records and became the first Australian schoolgirl to receive a Gold record with her Top Ten single "Why Won't You Explain" the music was by Guido and Maurizio De Angelis with the English lyric by Dennis Walter. Here to download is that single from 1981 and it's B side "Rock Me" (FB 337) produced by Ron Tudor for Fable.

Post 180 - Daytime Actors - Follow / Reasons For Living

Not a lot of imformation on these guys, they formed in 1986 and released two singles. The first was "Dance To The Beat" and the follow up in 1986 is here for you to download "Follow" b/w "Reasons For Living" recorded for RCA Records. I can hear hints of a Duran Duran influence in this single. The single was penned by the guys and the record was produced by Sherbet's Clive Shakespeare. The members were Dave Cumming - bass, Neil King - drums, Peter Mills - guitar, Paul Mills - keyboards and Damien Stark - vocals.

Post 179 - Lucky Starr - The Three Trees / Don't Ask Me Why

Lucky Starr is one of the founding members of the Australian Pop Music Industry. A regular on television shows such as Bandstand and also hosted Six O’clock Rock for one season. In 1962 Lucky recorded a hit record “I’ve Been Everywhere”, which to date still remains one of Australia’s all time favourites. Lucky was also the first Australian performer to entertain the troops in Vietnam; in fact paying his own way there and made five subsequent trips into the war zone. Here to download is he's 1964 single "The Three Trees b/w "Don't Ask Me Why" (FK-761) recorded for Festival. The A side was written by Andrey Marshall and the B side written by Lucky. Lucky’s style ranges from Rock & Roll, to Country through to Jazz and is in fact similar to the late great Bobby Darin.

Post 178 - Bandanna - Boogie Down Under

Bandanna was basically a biker’s band. They were a Sydney based Blues/Boogie/Rock band of the 80’s formed in 1986 by Larry Macmillan, Terry Duffy, Graeme Newtown and Rick Doolan. They were similar to George Thorogood in sound but were more like Dire Straits doing Z Z Top in looks. They had over 15 members go through their stables before they disbanded in 1990. They released a mini LP in 1986 "Bag Fulla Boogie." and two singles. Here to download is their single from 1988 "Boogie Down Under" b/w "Boogie Down Under-Motor Mix" (104847) on Possum Records. The single was produced by Matthew Hughes.

Post 177 - Rolf Harris - Pukka Chicken / Here Come The Bees

Another Rolf Harris single, this time recorded in 1967 "Pukka Chicken" b/w "Here Come the Bees (Love Has Gone)" (DO-5051) on Columbia Records. The A side penned by Rolf and the B side written by Hubert Pattison. Here to download is "Pukka Chicken" which was released on a Best Of Rolf Harris back in 1999 but has long been deleted. The several Best Of CD’s since have never included the song and I'm sure the B side has never seen CD. So enjoy another one of Rolf's zany songs that only Rolf can sing. I'm pretty sure there's never been a covered version of this one.

Post 176 - Jonathan Coleman - Aussies On 45

Coleman's broadcasting career started in the late 1970s in Australia when he was chosen a member of the reporting team for the popular afternoon children's TV magazine show Simon Townsend's Wonder World, created and hosted by journalist Simon Townsend. This was followed by several years as a DJ and presenter on the ABC's youth radio network Triple J. On post #28 we see Jonathan teaming up with Ricky May in 1983 recorded the single “Built For Comfort (I Ain’t Built For Speed)". This time he is accompanied by The Brenda Gee Singers on the 1981 WEA single "Aussies On 45" (100188). Here to download is that single with it's B side "Aussies On 45" Jonathan Coleman is also the voice of the popular Australian 70s and 80s music radio program "My Generation", heard on the Australian Radio Network.

Post 175 - Johnny Ashcroft - Darwin Lives On

This track could have come from post #168, recorded and written in 1975 by Johnny Ashcroft "Darwin Lives On" was written about Cyclone Tracy that devastated the city of Darwin, on Christmas Eve to Christmas Day, 1974. The total proceeds of this single went to the Darwin Appeal. It was recorded at Alberts Studio's for RCA Records and produced by Rocky Thomas. Thomas & The Good Music Orchestra provided the B side of the single with an instrumental version of the song. Here to download is "Darwin Lives On" (102563)