Gloria Stavers!

Dick Clark (November 30, 1929 - April 18, 2012)

16 Magazine (November 1959)

Broadcasting legend and "America's Oldest Living Teenager" Dick Clark has passed away at age 82.  You can read about Dick's phenomenal career and contributions to television here.

Dick Clark met Gloria Stavers very early in both of their careers.  In his autobiography "Rock, Roll & Remember," he says "The teen idol era was remarkable. My favorite memories of that era are the headlines Gloria Stavers used in 16 Magazine ... Gloria was the first to discover the teen idol magazine market. I worked with her as much as the stars did."  It's hard to remember a time when Dick Clark was not famous, but in 1957-1958, American Bandstand had just gone national with the ABC network and Dick was eager to promote himself and the show.  His press agent in New York was famed publicist Connie DeNave, a friend of Gloria's.  Thus, Dick was featured in stories such as "Dick Clark - Top Tune Spotter."

American Bandstand instantly became a fixture in 16, first in a monthly "Bandstand Newsletter" followed a couple of years later by "Bandstand Beat" which ran until July, 1964.  Both columns featured photos and the inside scoop on the hugely popular "Regulars," the teens who danced on the show every week.  Dick Clark was savvy enough to realize that teens were interested in other teens, and he made them the stars of Bandstand.  Dick and Gloria often consulted with each other on the latest potential hit records and recording stars.

In May of 1965, Gloria excitedly announced in "GeeGee's Gossip" the arrival of a new Dick Clark "pop, rock-and-roll variety show." Clark's "Where The Action Is" premiered on ABC in June of 1965, and 16 had a new favorite show to cover. WTAI was after school appointment television, and it was another symbiotic relationship between Dick and Gloria.  Show regulars Paul Revere & The Raiders, Keith Allison, Steve Alaimo, Tina Mason, The Robbs and the Action Kids were featured prominently in 16.  Raiders Mark Lindsay and Phil Volk became two of the most popular faves in 16's history.  After the show ended in March of '67 (16 said "Farewell to Action" in the May '67 issue,) Mark Lindsay and Paul Revere went on to host Dick Clark shows "Happening '68" and "It's Happening" and 16 featured those shows as well.  Dick Clark's flagship show "American Bandstand" continued on ABC until the spring of 1987, and was one of the longest running shows in television history.

Dick Clark and Gloria Stavers were both pioneers in the youth market, Dick in television and Gloria in journalism.  Both ignored the racial barriers of the era and showcased performers based on talent alone. They created their respective genres and became part of popular culture history.  Dick Clark will always be remembered for the music, the dancing, and the fun that was such an important part of our lives.

Davy Jones Memorial Concert (April 3, 2012)

 

 

They flew across the country, they walked a few blocks.  They drove hundreds of miles, they took the subway. They were famous, infamous, and anonymous. But when they walked into B.B. King's in Times Square on Tuesday night, they were all the same. They were people who loved Davy Jones. And for over five hours they shared stories, songs, laughter and tears as they remembered the beloved entertainer who passed away on February 29th at the age of 66. Some call him David, but most of us came to know him as Davy from "The Monkees" television show, records, and teen magazines like 16 and Tiger Beat.  (My first-ever concert was The Monkees at Boston Garden on July 22, 1967.)

Legendary radio deejay "Cousin Brucie" aka Bruce Morrow served as the evening's host, introducing musical guests and others who came to reminisce about the man fondly referred to as the "Manchester Cowboy."  In fact, some of the most heartwarming stories were of the former jockey's passion for horses. He rescued many of his own 16 horses from horrible fates, and the proceeds from this event will go towards their continued care.  It's a daunting task for his family. You can find out how to help at the end of this article.

Father, friend, musician, horse lover, businessman, actor, teen idol, songwriter, jockey, band leader, author ... so many facets of Davy's amazing life were celebrated at the event.  The stage was bookended by two large screens featuring photos and videos of Davy's career and private life.  Produced with Davy's friend, manager and Monkees archivist Andrew Sandoval, the presentation was a joyful reminder of Davy's love of life. And even after nearly fifty years of stardom, there were still new aspects of Davy's extraordinary journey that were revealed.

Two of his four daughters, Talia and Annabel, spoke movingly about Davy as a father (daughter Sarah sent her love in a video message.)  They both emphasized his love for his fans, and how their loyalty over the years enabled Davy to provide a better life for his children.  Annabel remarked that some of her fondest memories were of sitting in the audience amongst Davy's fans. Sharing their father with fans was a blessing, not a curse, and his daughters thanked those present for honoring him.  

The stage was a reunion of present and former Davy Jones and Monkees band members.   They shared "you had to be there" backstage stories, repeated Davy's "well-worn" stage jokes, and laughed about how they had all been fired at one time or another. They played and sang all of Davy's songs that they knew so well.  The anticipation grew as hints were dropped that there were a couple of "special" guests backstage, and the moment that everyone had been buzzing about finally came when Peter Tork took the stage.  After some brief words he launched into a bluegrass version of Mike Nesmith's "What Am I Doing Hanging Round," sounding great on banjo and vocals.

The excitement reached a peak when Micky Dolenz was introduced and joined Peter for "You and I" (co-written by Davy and Micky) and "I'm A Believer."  The two traded jokes (some funny/some not) and seemed to want to maintain the light-hearted spirit of Davy. But Micky was overcome with emotion from the moment he began singing Davy's signature song, and as Peter stepped up with vocal assistance, Micky was comforted by friends and family gathered on stage.  The audience needed no prodding, and hundreds of voices became one for a final dedication to "Daydream Believer" David Thomas Jones.  

 

As my own final goodbye to Davy, I created a little tribute video.  Thanks to all the talented people who created these photos. 

 

 

 

For more information on The Davy Jones Equine Memorial Fund, look for the launch of www.ManchesterCowboy.com or email [email protected]

 

 

 

Happy Valentines Day!

 

Dennis Wilson Remembered

Musician and filmmaker Billy Hinsche (of the hit making trio Dino, Desi and Billy) has crafted three excellent documentaries about the Beach Boys, with whom he has also recorded and toured. Billy is a good friend of Gloria Staver's website, and has kindly contributed an autographed copy of the "Dennis Wilson Remembered" DVD as our first "Dreamsville-revisited" giveaway!  We celebrate the Beach Boys reunion at the Grammy Awards this weekend, and look forward to the 50th Reunion Tour!  Thank you Billy!!

The giveaway is exclusive to members of Gloria Stavers Ravers on Facebook, so if you're not a Raver ... join today!

It's Record Store Day!

Today is the day to celebrate the great tradition of the local independent record store. When we were kids, these were the most exciting stores in town! Save up for the latest 45's! Hang out with the cool older teens! Hear records that aren't even on the radio yet! Real record stores are still cool places, and if you visit one today you'll be able to buy some special releases on vinyl and CD that are only available for Record Store Day. Unreleased tracks by the Rollong Stones, Jimi Hendrix, the Beach Boys, Bob Dylan, the Doors, the Yardbirds, and the Velvet Underground will take you back to the glory days of record stores! 

 

 

 

 

I'm featuring pictures of Bleecker Bob's on West Third Street in Greenwich Village, open since 1967.  Gloria Stavers was such a fan of the folk music scene there that I have an idea she must have roamed these aisles at some point, discovering some of the more eclectic records she raved about in 16.

What was your fave record store when you were a teen?

Davy Jones at Mohegan Sun

 
16 SPEC Winter '68

 

Undeterred by day-after Thanksgiving food hangovers or Black Friday shopping temptation, fans of Davy Jones turned out in droves for his return to Mohegan Sun's Wolf Den.  Taking the stage before him, his band built the anticipation level before Davy entered to the theme from "Rocky."  But unlike Rocky, Davy Jones hasn't had to face the challenges of a comeback, because he's been a successful actor/entertainer since the age of 11. Jones was on a fast track to solo stardom with his Tony-nominated role as the Artful Dodger in the original Broadway production of "Oliver" and an LP on the Colpix label before being cast in "The Monkees" in 1966. The mega-popular show won the Emmy for Outstanding Comedy Series, and created a new generation of fans when the series re-aired in the '70s and '80s.  The Monkees sold millions of albums and concert tickets before disbanding to pursue separate projects.  In subsequent years Davy Jones has toured with other Monkees, the Teen Idols tours, and as a solo act.  His fan base spans generations and genders, and his theatrical experience gives him another musical avenue to explore in his performances.

Davy kicked off the show with a rousing version of the chart-topping hit "I'm a Believer" written by Neil Diamond, followed by "Papa Gene's Blues"  by Mike Nesmith, whom he called his "favorite songwriter."  He introduced "Mary Mary" with "Remember that little dance I used to do?  I still do it!" ... as if fans could forget his signature "skate" move!  Taking time for many jokes and stories, no one was safe from Davy's good-natured ribbing, including former Monkee-mates, fellow teen idols Peter Noone and David Cassidy, and most of all himself.  He bemoaned the aging process that even pop stars eventually face ("I used to be a heartthrob ... now I'm a coronary!")  He returned to singing with "When Love Comes Knocking at Your Door" (with nice harmonies by the band) and and a rollicking "She Hangs Out". 

Davy recalled his Broadway days in 1962, making an interesting point that the British Invasion started on stage, before delivering "Consider Yourself" from "Oliver."  He then introduced his wife, dancer Jessica Pacheco Jones, who accompanied Davy's "Amore" with an expert flamenco.  Also given a latin arrangement was the Neil Diamond-penned "A Little Bit Me, A Little Bit You." Both songs gave Davy a chance to show some impressive moves of his own that may be the influence of his talented wife. 

Davy had a little fun turning his camera on some of the audience members, then slowed things down with "It's Nice To Be With You."  Although his voice has deepened with age, Davy still sounds remarkably the same as when Gloria Stavers crowned him as 16's first "Teen King" in December '67.   He proudly mentioned his four daughters, now grown and with children and careers of their own, before singing a sweet ballad about parenthood called "Let Them Be Little."  He gave his tambourine a workout on "Valerie," which featured a blistering solo by lead guitarist Dave Robicheau.  Davy credited the song's writers Tommy Boyce and Bobby Hart ("two of my favorite people",) who were responsible for many of The Monkee's hits.  After a touching story about meeting soldiers in the Sacramento airport in 1967, Davy sang the fan favorite "I Wanna Be Free" and dedicated it to "every service man and woman."  He then accompanied himself on acoustic guitar on his own composition "(I'll) Love You Forever" which he sang for all those little girls who hung his posters on their walls.  The band jumped back in for The Monkee's first single, the #1 smash "Last Train to Clarksville" and followed it with "Girl" from Davy's memorable appearance on "The Brady Bunch," an episode that gave girls one more reason to be jealous of Marcia Brady.

Jessica Pacheco came onstage again to perform a furiously paced flamenco, complete with traditional fan, accompanying Davy's singing of "Cara Mia, Dance Latina."  Again Davy showed that his vocal style is well-suited for many musical genres, including the romantic standards and pop classics he covers on his most recent CD  "She."    

Davy rounded out the show with some of The Monkee's biggest hits. "(I'm Not Your) Steppin' Stone" was followed by an audience singalong version of another #1 hit "Daydream Believer."  By the encore songs "Pleasant Valley Sunday," and "I'm a Believer,"  Davy Jones had made us all believe that his talents are truly ageless.

 

The Golden Boys at the American Music Theater

Take three good looking Italian-American boys from the same South Philadelphia neighborhood, fast forward through a half century that included over 50 hit records and countless film, television, and live performances, and you have The Golden Boys. Bobby Rydell, Fabian, and Frankie Avalon were top teen idols when 16 Magazine first hit newstands in 1958, and Sunday night they brought their fans back to those days of pompadours and poodle skirts.

In what felt like a homecoming for Philly-area fans, the Boys took the stage to a welcoming ovation from the packed 1,600 seat house.  Preceded by a video montage documenting the hysteria these handsome hearthrobs created in the early days of rock and roll, they kicked the party off with the theme from "American Bandstand" and some friendly banter. The stage was then given over to Bobby Rydell to deliver the first solo set.

Encouraged by his father who was a fan of big band music, Bobby learned the drums at age 8 by emulating jazz legend Gene Krupa. He became a regular on a local TV show at age 10, and a few years later was discovered by his future manager while sitting in on drums with Frankie Avalon's group Rocco and the Saints. In addition to singing and drumming, Rydell's talents as an impressionist, dancer, and actor enhanced his popularity as he branched out into television and movies.  He must have taken good care of his voice over the years, because his singing is still very impressive.  A finger-snapping version of "Goody Goody" set the pace for Bobby's energetic set.  One of his biggest hits, "Wild One" lead into a delightful "Bye Bye Birdie" medley complete with film montage of Bobby's singing and dancing scenes in that film, as well as some cute memories of working with Ann-Margret. Two of his big hits, "Forget Him," and "Wildwood Days" lead to tales of youthful hijinks under the boardwalk.  Bobby ended his set with a strong version of his signature hit "Volare," leaving no doubt why the creators of "Grease" were inspired to name their fictional school Rydell High.  

Fabian Forte was "discovered" when Frankie Avalon recommended him to a producer at Chancellor Records.  By the end of 1959, he had two gold records and was signed to 20th Century Fox to star in movies (he would eventually appear in over 30 and act alongside such icons as John Wayne and Jimmy Stewart.)  Like Bobby and Frankie, he was an early 16 fave, had many hits and was a favorite on "American Bandstand," "Ed Sullivan," "The Andy Williams Show," et al.  Fabian launched into his set with a cover of Stevie Ray Vaughan's "The House is a Rockin'."  He laughed about the lyrics to "I'm a Man" which he sang on Bandstand at the tender age of 15, commenting "I had a lot of nerve!"  "Turn Me Loose," Fabian's Top Ten hit by the legendary Doc Pomus was accompanied by a sexy "stroll."  For his smash hit "Tiger" Fabe welcomed some brave audience members to join him onstage for a "twist party" and hilarity ensued.  Fabian wrapped up his set with a high energy "Rock and Roll Music/Blue Suede Shoes/Jailhouse Rock/Tutti Frutti/Old Time Rock and Roll" medley.

Frankie Avalon made his first TV appearance at age 12 playing trumpet on the Red Skelton Show, and went on to record dozens of top hits and appear in scores of movies and tv shows. Frankie may be the senior member of this trio by a year or two, but he has a more youthful spirit than some performers who are decades younger. And like Bobby and Fabian, he still looks great!  He opened with "Beach Blanket Bingo" and a singalong version of "The Witch Doctor" song ("OOH-ee-ooh-ah-ah".)  Prior to introducing his son Frankie Jr. on drums, he did some well-deserved bragging about his family, saying wife of 47 years Kay deserved all the applause for their 8 children (who have now blessed them with 10 grandchildren!)  Quipped Frankie,"My oldest is 47 ...he's older than I am!"  "Warm California Sun" was a perfect little surf romp from the "King of the beach party movies."  Introduced by a clip of his memorable number from the blockbuster movie "Grease," "Beauty School Dropout" is still fun.  Frankie introduced another band member, guitarist Edan Everly, as the son of the Everly Brothers' Don.  The two performed a very sweet medley of EB's hits including "Bye Bye Love," "Wake Up Little Susie," and "Dream Dream Dream."  To the delight of his fans, Frankie stepped off stage to shake hands and receive hugs while  singing a series of his hits including "Bobby Sox to Stockings," "Why" (which was the last #1 record of the 1950's,) "Where or When," and his signature song "Venus" which held the #1 spot for five consecutive weeks in 1959.

The Golden Boys teamed up again for a "Rock and Roll Heaven" finale.  Frankie saluted Rick Nelson with a spirited "Hello Mary Lou," Fabian recalled meeting Elvis and rocked "Hard Headed Woman," and Bobby honored the memory of Bobby Darin with an on-the-money version of "Mack the Knife."  They came together for one last song, Bill Haley's "Rock Around the Clock," closing a truly enjoyable evening for their fans and friends.

 

David Cassidy at Mohegan Sun

David Cassidy in 16 magazine (May 1972)

Once in a blue moon, the right combination of talent, looks, and opportunity collide to produce a pop superstar of the magnitude of David Cassidy.  Equally adept at music, acting, and live performance, his brass ring came in 1969 when he was cast in "The Partridge Family" television show and parlayed its five-year success into solo super-stardom. David's reign as a teen idol was accompanied by many record-breaking accomplishments, and he reportedly holds the record for the largest fan club membership in history.  Those fans now have the pleasure of seeing David perform in more intimate settings than when he was selling out Madison Square Garden, the Astrodome and Wembley Stadium. By all appearances their loyalty has not waned, as the line for the 8pm show began forming well before noon. A rush to the foot of the stage came at the show's introduction, as fans abandoned their tables, their valuables, and some their dates for closer proximity to their fave.  Cassidy opened with "I Can Feel Your Heartbeat," and then strapped on his electric guitar for "Hush," reminiscing about being an 18 year old mail room clerk in 1968, looking for a break and listening to the Deep Purple hit.  Like The Monkees, The Partridge Family were gifted with songs written by some of the top tune-smiths of the day, including Rupert Holmes ("Echo Valley 2-6809") and the legendary Gerry Goffin ("I'll Meet You Halfway".)  David remembered fondly some of the opportunities his stardom brought, such as a 1974 visit from John Lennon during which the two sang and played into the wee hours.  Inspired at age 13 by the Beatles to pursue music, his version of  "In My Life" was one of the evening's highlights.   The hits kept coming with "I Woke Up In Love This Morning," "Summer Days," "Point Me In The Direction of Albuquerque," and a revamped version of the #6 hit "Doesn't Somebody Want To Be Wanted Like Me" (sans the original's "spoken word" interlude,) which David said he has only performed 3 or 4 times in the last 20 years.  The band was generously given time to shine. Guitarist Ryan Bull let loose with a blazing solo, and musical director Frank Fabio kept everything grounded on bass.  Producer/re-mixer/composer Craig J gave an amazingly inventive, jazzy version of "On Broadway," and drummer/percussionist Teri Cote sang the Pretender's "Brass in Pocket" while David took over for her on drums.  Cassidy's vocal quality is surprisingly unchanged, and was especially strong on a soulful "Ain't No Sunshine" and a sexy/bluesy version of "Come On Get Happy" (honestly, it worked!)  Known for being conflicted about his Partridge Family days, he seems to have found a way to celebrate that era without being stuck in it.  He's pulled those hits into the present with more current arrangements, giving them a new energy.  He engaged the audience throughout the show, recognizing the loyalty of his fans, and seemed genuinely grateful for his continued ability to entertain. He closed with the #1 worldwide mega-hit "I Think I Love You."  On this night, David Cassidy rolled up his sleeves and came to play.

Herman's Hermits starring Peter Noone at Mohegan Sun

16 pic of "Herman" at home with his GeeGee awards

 

If there were a crown for the "16 Fave Who Never Ages," Peter Noone would be the undisputed king (sorry, Donny Osmond!)  Granted, he was the youngest of the British Invasion army, but his youthful looks and energy are nonetheless remarkable 46 years later.  "Herman" was one of the top faves in 16 magazine history, and it was the rare 60's issue that didn't feature color pinups, contests, and pages of "pix" and "fax" about him.

It's been a couple of years since I last saw Peter Noone in concert, and he is singing (and looking) even better these days.  Fans lined up for hours for Friday night's two shows (I attended the second,) and were rewarded with a rapid-fire mix of hits from Herman's Hermits including their first hit "I'm Into Something Good," #1 record "Mrs. Brown, You've Got a Lovely Daughter," the gorgeous "No Milk Today," "Listen People," "Silhouettes" and many more.  As if singing 15 or so hits of his own were not enough, he and the Hermits also delivered half a dozen high energy British Invasion hits including "Glad All Over," "Doo Wah Diddy" "I'm Telling You Now," and "I Saw Her Standing There."  Peter charmed the audience (including the overflow crowd outside in the casino area) with his "cheeky" humor, including impersonations of Tom Jones, Johnny Cash and fellow teen idol Davy Jones.  After a rousing, audience-assisted version of #1 hit "I'm Henry the Eighth, I Am", he closed with another smash, "There's a Kind of Hush," which was definitely not the reception he received as the audience was singing, dancing and cheering from beginning to end.

16 magazine Faves at Rock Con!

Some of your 16 faves were featured guests at the National Rock Convention ("Rock Con") at the Meadowlands Sheraton held the weekend of July 30th.  I had the honor of meeting Phil "Fang" Volk, original member of Paul Revere and the Raiders, Billy Hinsche of Dino, Desi and Billy, Gene Cornish of the Young Rascals, Mary Wilson of the Supremes, Al Jardine of the Beach Boys, Hilton Valentine of the Animals, Tommy James, TV host and 16 columnist Clay Cole, LaLa Brooks of the Crystals, actor and activist Paul Petersen, and hitmakers Andy Kim and Ron Dante among others.  During the day fans had the chance to chat with their faves, buy merchandise, and get autographs and photos.  The nightly concert featured hit after hit delivered by an all-star cast jamming on one another's songs (I'm told there are some great You Tube videos if you want to look for them.)  It was a rare opportunity to see so many greats at one time, and it was fun to see how much they enjoyed meeting fans and "catching up" with fellow artists.