Posts by Alan Bershaw

Contributor Archives: Alan Bershaw

“Overture” – The Who at Tanglewood

“I Can’t Explain” – The Who at Tanglewood

The oldest original number of the set, the Kinks-like “I Can’t Explain” follows ["Heaven and Hell"] in fine form. Unlike his musical peers in the 1964/1965 era, most of whom were still writing love songs (including Lennon and McCartney), this first single by The Who focused on the frustration of being unable to articulate one’s [...]

$4 Download Deal: Mississippi John Hurt

John Hurt, a contemporary of Blind Lemon Jefferson and Leadbelly, played the blues, folk ballads, work songs, spirituals, ragtime numbers, and his own interpretations of popular songs. Singing in a gentle voice and playing delicate guitar patterns, his influence on Jerry Garcia is undeniable.