The Beards - "Got Me a Beard"

The Beards are a band of, um, bearded guys and here is a song "Got Me a Beard" from the 2012 album 'Having a Beard is the New Not Having a Beard' and there is no prize for guessing what all their songs are about.

Valerie June - "Workin' Woman Blues"

"Workin' Woman Blues" is from the fourth album by Memphis artist Valerie June. The album 'Pushin' Against a Stone' was recorded with Dan Auerbach and Kevin Augunas after she had relocated to New York. It is a blend of traditional, roots, blues, soul, bluegrass, gospel and singer-songwriter folk. I know that sounds too eclectic for a solid album, but because she succeeds in bringing a lot of those styles together in her songs, it doesn't really jump from one genre to another. Although, the bluegrass/appalachian tracks don't stray too much from tradition. "Workin' Woman Blues" is like a rootsy Billie Holliday and the horns are perfectly integrated.

Bob Marley and the Wailers - "Stir It Up" live Old Grey Whistle Test 1973

Bob Marley and the Wailers appeared on British television for the very first time in 1973 when they performed "Stir It Up" live on Old Grey Whistle Test, a kind of 'Later with Jools Holland' of the 70's and 80's that, shamefully never made it to NZ. With this performance, it's no surprise that world domination followed.... how fucking cool were they then? Stoned but articulate!

Jonny Fritz - "Trash Day"

Tomorrow is "Trash Day" so thanks for reminding me Jonny Fritz.... this is the best way to be reminded about trash day on Monday.

Madeline Kahn - "I'm Tired" Blazing Saddles

Here is the magnificent Madeline Kahn performing "I'm Tired" from the equally magnificent 'Blazing Saddles' movie.

Push Push - Trippin'

Should we laugh, cringe or just remember it fondly as a moment in musical history? Let's be positive and go with the latter. Push Push hit the top of the charts with this song - but come on now, calm down, it was 1991 and glam was in. Still not convinced? Here are some big hits from 1991 "(Everything I Do) I Do It for You" – Bryan Adams, "Joyride" – Roxette, "Don't Let the Sun Go Down on Me" – George Michael & Elton John and "The Shoop Shoop Song (It's in His Kiss)" – Cher. Okay, all that tells us is that there sure was some crap happening that year... so it doesn't make Trippin' right but it makes it better. 1991 was probably not the greatest year at all musically, it was as if I was "Losing My Religion" but there was something in the air that we said "Smells Like Teen Spirit" and that spirit changed everything.

Amiria Grenell - "E Toru Nga Mea"

Here is a short and sweet musical interlude from the wonderful Amiria Grenell and a very special guest.... for this musical family, the future is looking bright.