In the spring of 1970, this Seeburg 1000 background music record, BA-114, made its way into public spaces across the United States on its place-in-use date of 1 April 1970. It carried with it a soundtrack that would become deeply ingrained in the memories of an entire generation. This collection of songs, ranging from pop hits to orchestral arrangements, served as a backdrop to the lives of Americans during a time of significant social and cultural change.
One of the most recognizable tracks on the record is "Mandy (Taking Off On A Jet Plane)," a cover of the John Denver classic. The song's wistful lyrics about leaving a loved one behind resonated with many Americans as the Vietnam War continued to separate families and friends. Including this song on this Seeburg 1000 record likely brought a sense of shared experience and emotion to public spaces, reminding listeners of the sacrifices being made by so many.
The record also featured various instrumental pieces, such as "The Answer Is Blowing In The Wind," a nod to Bob Dylan's iconic song. The orchestral arrangement of this protest anthem served as a subtle reminder of the ongoing struggle for civil rights and the growing and increasingly popular anti-war sentiment that characterized the era.
The B-side of this record starts with a cover of another late 1960s favorite—Rain Drops Keep Fallin' On My Head. This upbeat tune about the sorrow that often comes with the territory of romantic relationships was one of Burt Bacharach's most famous and recognizable hits. Various renditions and recordings of this earworm of a hit song were played and performed virtually everywhere. Recordings of every contemporary artist who covered current pop hits were issued on many different labels.
Other tracks offered a romantic or romanticized escape from the turbulent times of what was then the present day. Some of these on this
Autumn In New York
The Man That Got Away from "A Star Is Born"
Love For Sale
Wonderful Season Of Love (Peyton Place Theme)
Guilty (Of Loving You)
Don't Take Your Love From Me
Darn That Dream! Big Band Jazz
Music! Music! Music! or Put Another Nickel In
Love Sends a Little Gift of Roses (Openshaw-Cooke, 1919)
These classic love songs may have provided a sense of nostalgia and comfort, transporting listeners back to simpler times, even if they only seemed so in the rose-colored recollection of yesterdays long since past, but fondly remembered and their memory cherished.
The Seeburg 1000 also showcased the diverse musical landscape of the early 1970s, with generic, possibly in-house composition tracks, Country/Western, and Cha Cha/Samba-themed instrumentals alongside lush, orchestral pieces typical of the format. These genres represented the increasing influence of Latin American and country music on the American soundscape, reflecting the nation's growing cultural diversity.
Beautiful Candy from Carnival
Laia Ladaia- Cover of Les Baxter Tune from his "Brasil Now '69" LP
Unidentified Country/Western Song?
La Java - French Style Orchestral Track
Interestingly, the record included several tracks that elude immediate identification by the author. These mysterious selections, some of which may have been custom production compositions made in-house by Seeburg, may have added an element of intrigue and surprise for listeners, sparking conversations and memories of bygone musical eras.
As this Seeburg 1000 record played in restaurants, shops, and waiting rooms across the country, millions of Americans shared the experience. The carefully curated mix of songs on this record provided a soundtrack to the everyday lives of people navigating a rapidly changing world. It offered moments of reflection, nostalgia, and connection during a time when the nation was grappling with the complexities of war, social change, and cultural shifts.
Original record labels
Full Record
Today, each Seeburg 1000 record release that has survived is a time capsule, preserving the sounds and emotions of pivotal moments in American history. As we listen to these tracks, we are transported back to the spring of 1970, a time when music had a great power to unite, comfort, and inspire a nation amid change.
The mid-20th century saw a surge in the popularity of Hawaiian music in the United States, with the sounds of the islands captivating audiences across the country. This fascination with Hawaiian culture and music, often called the "Hawaiian Craze," significantly impacted American popular culture. One of the albums that exemplifies this trend is "Akoni Lani & Danny K. Stewart Play Hawaiian Favorites," released on the budget label Acorn Records. This post explores the history of the Hawaiian music craze, the background of Acorn Records, and the musical contributions of Akoni Lani and Danny K. Stewart.
The Hawaiian Music Craze in Mid-Century America
The Hawaiian music craze in the United States can be traced back to the early 20th century, with the popularity of Hawaiian-themed songs like "Aloha 'Oe" and "My Little Grass Shack." However, in the 1930s and 1940s, the craze peaked, fueled by the increasing accessibility of Hawaiian music through radio broadcasts, live performances, and the rise of the Hollywood film industry.[^1] The wave of the Hawaiian Craze, while beginning to recede somewhat, was still very much alive and well through the 1950s in popular culture of the United States.
Hollywood played a significant role in popularizing Hawaiian music and culture. Films like "Waikiki Wedding" (1937) and "Blue Hawaii" (1961) showcased the beauty of the islands and featured Hawaiian-themed songs, introducing mainstream audiences to the allure of the South Pacific. These movies often depicted Hawaii as a romantic, exotic paradise, contributing to the growing fascination with the islands and their music.[^2]
The popularity of Hawaiian music also coincided with the rise of Tiki culture in the United States. Tiki bars and restaurants, adorned with Polynesian-inspired decor and serving tropical drinks, became popular hangouts in the post-World War II era, especially among veterans who had lived on the islands of the South Pacific and fell in love with their beauty and culture firsthand. These establishments often featured live performances of Hawaiian music, further exposing patrons to the sounds of the islands.[^3]
The Hawaiian music craze not only influenced popular music but also impacted fashion and design. Hawaiian-inspired clothing, such as aloha shirts and grass skirts, became fashionable, while many mainland designers incorporated elements of Polynesian design into architecture and interior decorating.[^4]
Acorn Records and the Re-Release of "Akoni Lani & Danny K. Stewart Play Hawaiian Favorites"
Acorn Records was one of the many budget labels that emerged in the late 1950s, capitalizing on the growing demand for affordable music. The label was part of Eli Oberstein's recording empire, which focused on reissuing previously released material, often in collaboration with other budget labels like Precision Radiation Instruments (PRI), who had acquired the back catalog of the Tops/Mayfair Records line, which enjoyed great success in the first part of the decade.[^5]
"Akoni Lani & Danny K. Stewart Play Hawaiian Favorites" was originally released on the Tops label in mono. Still, Acorn Records reissued the album in reprocessed stereo, a common practice for the label, along with other budget labels wanting to issue stereo versions of albums where only older monaural recordings were on hand for them to reissue. The album's cover art was minimally altered, with the Tops Records logo simply covered by an Acorn Records banner, indicating the label's emphasis on cost-effective production.[^5]
Bringing the Sounds of Hawaii to the Mainland
Side A of the album features the mesmerizing sounds of Akoni Lani and His Islanders, a group that brought the essence of Hawaii to the mainland United States. Little is known about Akoni Lani's life, but his music speaks volumes about his connection to the islands and his desire to share their beauty with the world.
The opening track, "Hawaiian War Chant," is a lively and energetic tune that showcases the group's mastery of traditional Hawaiian instrumentation. The song, also known as "Kāua I Ka Huahuaʻi," is a popular hula dance that tells the story of King Kamehameha I's conquest of the Hawaiian Islands. The driving rhythm and chanting vocals transport listeners to the shores of Hawaii, immersing them in the island's rich cultural heritage.[^6]
Other notable tracks on Side A include "Song of the Islands," a gentle and soothing take on the classic composed by Charles E. King in 1915, and "Lovely Hula Hands," a timeless Hawaiian tune written by R. Alex Anderson in 1940 that celebrates the graceful movements of hula dancers.[^7][^8]
Side B of the album features the talents of Danny K. Stewart and His Aloha Boys, a group that seamlessly blends traditional Hawaiian music with Western influences. Like Akoni Lani, little is known about Danny K. Stewart's life, but his music offers a glimpse into his unique artistic vision and his love for the Hawaiian Islands.
"Silhouette Hula" is a dreamy and romantic tune that showcases the Aloha Boys' ability to create lush, atmospheric soundscapes. The song's gentle rhythms and ethereal vocals depict lovers dancing in the moonlight, their silhouettes swaying to the islands' music.[^9]
Other standout tracks on Side B include "Fort St. Rag," a lively instrumental piece that showcases the Aloha Boys' musical prowess and their ability to blend Hawaiian and Western influences, and "(There's A) Yellow Rose in Hilo," a charming and romantic song that tells the story of a young man who falls in love with a beautiful girl from Hilo, adapted from the American Civil War favorite, "There's A Yellow Rose in Texas," written nearly a century prior.[^10]
The Impact of Hawaiian Music on American Popular Culture
The mid-20th-century Hawaiian music craze had a lasting impact on American popular culture. The exotic sounds and romantic imagery associated with the islands continued to captivate audiences long after the initial craze had subsided.
In the realm of popular music, Hawaiian influences can be heard in the works of various artists, from Elvis Presley's "Blue Hawaii" album to the Beach Boys' "Pet Sounds." The use of Hawaiian instrumentation, such as the ukulele and steel guitar, became more common in mainstream music, adding a touch of island flavor to diverse genres.[^11]
The popularity of Hawaiian music also paved the way for the "exotica" genre, which emerged in the 1950s and 1960s. Exotica music, pioneered by artists like Martin Denny and Arthur Lyman, blended elements of Hawaiian, Polynesian, and Latin American music with jazz and easy listening, creating a unique sound that evoked images of tropical landscapes and far-off lands.[^12]
Beyond music, the Hawaiian craze influenced fashion, design, and leisure activities. The aloha shirt, once a symbol of Hawaiian culture, became a mainstream fashion staple worn by people of all ages and backgrounds. Tiki bars and Polynesian-themed restaurants continued to be popular throughout the latter half of the 20th century, providing a glimpse into the allure of the South Pacific for those unable to travel to the islands themselves.[^13]
Conclusion
"Akoni Lani & Danny K. Stewart Play Hawaiian Favorites" may have been a product of the budget record industry. Still, its significance lies in its representation of the Hawaiian music craze that swept the United States in the mid-20th century. The album captures the essence of Hawaiian music's appeal with its enchanting melodies, exotic instrumentation, and romantic imagery.
The Hawaiian music craze was more than just a passing fad; it had a lasting impact on American popular culture, influencing music, fashion, and design for generations to come. The popularity of Hawaiian music during this era reflects the American fascination with the exotic, the desire to escape the mundane, and the search for a tropical paradise in the post-war years.
Through their music, artists like Akoni Lani and Danny K. Stewart entertained audiences and helped bridge the gap between Hawaiian culture and the American mainland. Their performances introduced countless listeners to the beauty and richness of Hawaiian musical traditions, preserving and promoting the islands' cultural heritage for generations to come.
As we look back on the Hawaiian music craze of the mid-20th century, we can appreciate the enduring legacy of this fascinating period in American popular culture. The sounds of Hawaii continue to captivate and inspire, reminding us of the power of music to transport us to distant lands, evoke emotions, and create lasting memories.
Works Cited: 1. Kanahele, George S. "Hawaiian Music: History and Development." The Hawaiian Journal of History, vol. 13, 1979, pp. 1-18. 2. Desser, David. "The Aloha State of Mind: Hollywood's Hawaii." The Journal of Popular Film and Television, vol. 25, no. 3, 1997, pp. 123-132. 3. Kirsten, Sven A. "The Book of Tiki: The Cult of Polynesian Pop in Fifties America." Taschen, 2000. 4. Arthur, Linda B. "The Art of the Aloha Shirt: Keoni of Hawaii, 1938-51." University of Hawaii Press, 2000. 5. Borgerson, Janet, and Jonathan Schroeder. "Martin Denny and the Sounds of Exotica." Consumption Markets & Culture, vol. 16, no. 3, 2013, pp. 254-273. 6. Huapala: Hawaiian Music and Hula Archives, "Kāua I Ka Huahuaʻi," accessed April 20, 2024, http://huapala.org/KA/Kaua_I_Ka_Huahuai.html. 7. Charles E. King, "Song of The Islands," 1915. 8. R. Alex Anderson, "Lovely Hula Hands," 1940. 9. Huapala: Hawaiian Music and Hula Archives, "The Pupuli Hula E," accessed April 20, 2024, http://huapala.org/PU/Pupuli_Hula_E.html. 10. Bill Cogswell, Tommy Harrison, and Johnny Noble, "My Little Grass Shack," 1933. 11. Garrett, Charles Hiroshi. "Struggling to Define a Nation: American Music and the Twentieth Century." University of California Press, 2008. 12. Toop, David. "Exotica: Fabricated Soundscapes in a Real World." Serpent's Tail, 1999. 13. Sven A. Kirsten, "Tiki Pop: America Imagines Its Own Polynesian Paradise." T
In the world of record collecting, discovering hidden gems and forgotten masterpieces is an endless pursuit. One such treasure is the 1956 album "Music To Remember You By" by Herbie Lane & His Orchestra, released under Hollywood Records. This purely instrumental album is a testament to the enduring power of classic melodies and the artistry of the big band and easy-listening genres. For collectors and music enthusiasts alike, this album offers a captivating journey through timeless tunes, each interpreted with the distinctive style and elegance of Herbie Lane & His Orchestra.
The Maestro Behind the Music:
Herbie Lane, the maestro behind this musical masterpiece, was a renowned American conductor, arranger, and composer. His career spanned several decades, during which he worked with various orchestras and ensembles, leaving only a fleeting impression (if one was made at all) on the music industry. Lane's ability to infuse classic melodies with his unique artistic vision is evident throughout "Music To Remember You By," as he breathes new life into beloved tunes, creating a listening experience that is both familiar and refreshingly innovative.
A Journey Through Timeless Melodies:
The album's tracklist is a carefully curated selection of classic tunes that have stood the test of time. From the opening notes of "Sophisticated Lady" to the final strains of "In My Solitude," each piece is a masterclass in instrumental storytelling. Lane's orchestra effortlessly navigates the intricate arrangements, showcasing their exceptional musicianship and the depth of emotion that can be conveyed through instrumental performances.
One of the standout tracks on the album is "Moonlight Serenade," a beloved composition by the legendary Glenn Miller. Herbie Lane & His Orchestra's rendition of this classic tune is nothing short of enchanting. The lush orchestration and the delicate interplay between the various sections of the ensemble create a dreamy atmosphere that transports listeners to a bygone era of romance and sophistication.
Another album highlight is "Autumn Leaves," a melancholic and introspective piece that showcases the orchestra's ability to evoke deep emotions through their performance. The hauntingly beautiful melody, originally composed by Joseph Kosma with lyrics by Jacques Prévert, is given a new lease on life through Lane's masterful arrangement. The orchestra's interpretation of this timeless standard is a testament to the enduring power of instrumental music to convey complex feelings and narratives.
The Nostalgic Charm of Easy Listening:
"Music To Remember You By" is a prime example of the easy-listening genre, which gained popularity in the mid-20th century. Easy listening music, also known as "mood music" or "beautiful music," was designed to create a relaxing and sophisticated ambiance, often featuring instrumental renditions of popular songs and standards. Herbie Lane & His Orchestra's album perfectly encapsulates the essence of this genre, offering a soothing and nostalgic listening experience that transports audiences to a more genteel and romantic era.
The album's title, "Music To Remember You By," is a fitting description of its contents. Each track evokes a sense of nostalgia and creates an atmosphere conducive to reminiscing about cherished memories and lost love. The orchestra's performances are imbued with a certain wistfulness as if the music itself is a bittersweet reminder of moments gone by. This emotional resonance is one of the reasons why the album has endured as a beloved classic among record collectors and music lovers.
Allure of Instrumental Albums:
In an age where vocal performances often take center stage, instrumental albums like "Music To Remember You By" offer a refreshing change of pace. The absence of lyrics allows the music to speak for itself, inviting listeners to create their own narratives and emotional connections to the pieces. Instrumental albums showcase the true artistry of the musicians, as they must rely solely on their ability to convey meaning and emotion through their performances.
For record collectors, instrumental albums hold a special place in their collections. These recordings serve as a testament to the skill and creativity of the artists involved and offer a glimpse into the musical landscape of a particular era. "Music To Remember You By" is a prime example of the kind of instrumental album collectors seek – a well-crafted, emotionally resonant work showcasing the best of its genre and the talents of its creators.
The Legacy of Herbie Lane & His Orchestra:
While Herbie Lane & His Orchestra may not be a household name today, their contribution to the music world cannot be overlooked. "Music To Remember You By" is a testament to their artistry and their ability to create timeless recordings that continue to captivate audiences decades after their initial release. The album's enduring popularity among record collectors and music enthusiasts is a clear indication of its significance and the impact it has had on the easy-listening genre.
In many ways, "Music To Remember You By" serves as a time capsule, preserving the sounds and sensibilities of a bygone era. It offers a glimpse into the musical tastes and preferences of the 1950s while also demonstrating the timeless appeal of well-crafted instrumental performances. For collectors and enthusiasts, owning a copy of this album is like possessing a piece of musical history, a tangible connection to a time when orchestras reigned supreme and instrumental albums were a music industry staple.
In closing, Herbie Lane & His Orchestra's "Music To Remember You By" is a true gem in the world of record collecting. This purely instrumental album, released in 1956 under Hollywood Records, showcases the artistry and emotional depth of the big band and easy-listening genres. Through a carefully curated selection of timeless melodies, Herbie Lane & His Orchestra creates a nostalgic and captivating listening experience that resonates with audiences today.
For record collectors and music enthusiasts, "Music To Remember You By" is a must-have addition to any collection. It serves as a testament to the enduring power of instrumental music and the musicians' skill. The album's ability to evoke emotions, memories, and a sense of nostalgia reminds us of the important role that music plays in our lives and the way in which it can connect us to the past, present, and future.
In a world where music is often fleeting and disposable, albums like "Music To Remember You By" stand the test of time. They remind us of the importance of preserving and celebrating the musical treasures of the past and the joy that can be found in rediscovering forgotten masterpieces. For those who appreciate instrumental music's artistry and emotional resonance, Herbie Lane & His Orchestra's album is a true gem, waiting to be discovered and cherished by a new generation of music lovers.
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