I’m not sure why, but this morning I feel compelled to explore a selection of singer/songwriters. My own “quest of the best”.

Classic:

Harry Chapin – for someone my ahem…age, Chapin was a remarkable singer songwriter. Long after his death, I still spin his classic live album. Engaging stories, a sense of humour, and fine musicianship keep his music alive, decades after first release.

Barry Manilow – What can I say? The man is a genius! Simple piano and orchestration, backing slice-of-life songs that spoke to a generation. Oddly enough, I’m not aware of anyone covering any of his songs. What is it with these young whippersnappers? For cryin’ out loud, will somebody out there re-record “Weekend In New England”???

Burton Cummings/Randy Bachman – Fellow former Winnipegers, these early frontmen for The Guess Who penned a few memorable songs. Cummings was almost as good on the ole keyboards as Manilow, and carved out a pretty decent solo career for himself.

John Lennon – one of the better singer songwriters of the classic period. Right up there with Neil Diamond, Mac Davis, and Paul McCartney. There has been much debate over the years regarding Lennon/McCartney (who’s the best), but personally, I’ve always leaned towards McCartney, even though I am giving Lennon the showcase here today.

Modern:

James Blunt – ‘nuff said. The man is a modern-day Cole Porter, a musical Shakespeare of warbled words. I’m a bit biased here, but Mr. Blunt may just set the standard for this latest generation.

??? – That’s all I’ve got for modern. I really need to listen to a bit more radio, I suppose.

Chow for now!!