Confessions of a Classic Soul

Christmas Mood (Monthly Mixtape)

Contrary to popular belief, Christmas is a season and not simply one day. In fact, in Christianity, the days counting down to December 25th are part of the season of Advent, which allows Christians to prepare for Christ’s birth on Christmas Day. For some denominations, Christmas isn’t until the beginning of January.

So, as most radio and satellite stations have promptly removed their festive playlists, some of us are still jamming because it IS still the most wonderful time of the year!

The days leading to Christmas are stressful and chaotic, leaving individuals to not fully feel the holiday spirit until the big day finally arrives. In this weird week between Christmas and New Year’s, we continue the holiday mood with Brian Setzer’s “Gettin’ In The Mood (For Christmas).”

Setzer began his music career as part of the rockabilly group Stray Cats. The rock and country combo sound from the ’50s is the heart of nearly all Setzer’s music. Later on in his career, he developed the Brian Setzer Orchestra, an ensemble that supports his lead singing and adds neat jazz and swing to the rockabilly groove.

The lyrics in this song do grow a bit chaotic, matching the quick tempo, but the overall sound captures the joys and excitement of the season!

What’s Monthly Mixtape? Each month on Confessions of a Classic Soul, Nicole reviews an underappreciated song from decades past. Her love for underrated songs, plus her literary analysis skills and music experience, allow her to find hidden gems within songs.

“Gettin’ In The Mood (For Christmas)”

Originally, Setzer composed the song “Gettin’ In The Mood” in the year 2000 for his Vavoom! album. Five years later, he created a Christmas version. Therefore, when searching for lyrics to this song, be careful to type in the right song title–I was confused for a bit!

The introduction is essentially the same in both songs: a jazzy trumpet/saxophone blend that truly swings. No pun. It literally swings! There is an ascend and a descend. This intro is a perfect roller coaster of joy. Right away, a positive and upbeat mood is set, preparing for the lyrics.

From his time in Stray Cats to his decades performing solo, Setzer has always maintained the cool, ’50s and ’60s Greaser image. In the music, the ladies love him and vehicles zoom. This Christmas song is absolutely no exception, with the mere mention of “hotties” and “tats” (tattoos, obviously). Even on Christmas, Setzer is a cool and swinging dude.

The imagery flashes as quickly as the instrumental itself. Between reindeer, sleighs, flight, mistletoe, coats, and snow, the audience receives clear and familiar images that are typical of a Christmas mood, as well as of other famous Christmas songs.

As the song continues, the cool rock progresses. Quite frankly, it’s hard NOT to fall in love with the song. Santa is a “dude” and he’s “stylin’.” Heck, he “rolls” instead of just “flies.” Santa doesn’t live in an igloo; he’s got a cool “crib.” Setzer gives Santa a makeover in this song, making jolly old St. Nick modern and hip. Santa’s not just for kids anymore. Santa knows how to bring the boogie (although this is an image I’m scared to see; imagine Santa DANCING)!

At times the instrumental background is reminiscent of musical backgrounds, almost as if the imagery were to be performed on stage. Santa is visible, as are the partygoers. Setzer would be the narrator over on stage left with a spotlight shining down on him! The song presents the Christmas mood, but it also tells a story about the right Christmas mood.

The twist on the classic “Twas The Night Before Christmas” is refreshing with its own greaser style. A girl in a tight skirt? Hot rods? This Christmas mood is enough to get Danny Zuko and the T-Birds fired up!

Stayin’ in the Mood

As this Christmas season continues, Brian Setzer would encourage you to keep that special mood going. However, Santa can’t stay at the party too long. He’s got things to do for next year.

If anyone could create a swinging and popping Christmas jive, it would be Brian Setzer. He never disappoints, especially when he’s “gettin’ in the mood!”

Before You Go…

Don’t forget to listen and subscribe to the Guilty Pleasures of a Classic Soul playlist, which compiles all songs featured on Monthly Mixtape! You can now listen on either YouTube or Spotify!

Christmas Eve and the Missing Organist

Merry Christmas! Every year I treat my readers to a short Christmas story in a series called Heartwarming Christmas.

As a kid, I loved making up stories for the figures underneath the Christmas tree. Last year’s story focused on the red lighthouse and a boy named Elias. Continuing with the same “town,” this year’s short story picks up with a new main cast of characters, with a few familiar ones sprinkled in.

Here is the case of the missing church organist!

Christmas Eve and the Missing Organist

Anna, bundled up in her heavy denim jacket and floppy raspberry-colored hat, pulled the sled behind her with all her might. Every Chrismas Eve, before Mass, she dragged her tree from the Christmas tree farm to her cottage on the edge of town, near a cluster of woods.

Besides her love of simplicity and independence, Anna was the church’s organist. She preferred to keep to herself, and her bold and beautiful playing was her way to express her voice.

Anna knew that some of the townsfolk were skeptical of her because she didn’t seem very friendly. Shy and reserved, Anna had no secrets to hide, as rumors predicted.

This year’s tree was extraordinarily heavier than normal, and Anna cursed herself for not checking the weight of the tree before purchasing it. Yet, she pulled it through the fresh snow, two hands on the rope of the sled. The sled made tracks in the snow behind her.

By the time she arrived at her little cottage, she had to take a break and perch herself in the rocking chair on her porch. She gazed out at the sceney while snowflakes continued to fall silently. After resting, she wrestled the tree into the house. Her plan was to trim the tree and then grab her huge binder of Christmas hymns and head to the Cathedral for evening Mass. She couldn’t wait to celebrate the birth of the Lord in peace and tranquility.

***

“What if she eats us?” James asked.

His sister Jenny scoffed. “She’s not a witch! Who are we, Hansel and Gretel?”

“But no one knows much about her,” James continued, stopping to stamp his boot print in the snow.

“True,” Jenny agreed, pulling her hat down over her ears. “Why are we out here again?”

“Because, we want to know why Anna the organist is so mysterious!”

“Hmmm, I guess a quick look wouldn’t hurt. But let’s not stay too long, Jimmy. Mom will kill us if we don’t get back in time for church tonight.”

The siblings journeyed on, following the sled tracks. The sun began to wane, making the tracks harder to see.

“How much farther?” Jenny asked, starting to regret tagging along with James and his half-baked plan.

“Shouldn’t be too far n–look, Jenny, a light!”

James tore off, kicking up snow as he went.

“Slow down!”

Jenny trudged through the snow, her clunky boots weighing her down. As she finally caught up she, glanced up to find the quaint cottage, with bright lights on and smoke rising from the chimney.

James was grinning from ear to ear. “Let’s go peek in the window!”

Rolling her eyes, Jenny said, “Because that’s not creepy.”

“She could be just as creepy,” James pointed out.

Naturally, James led the way to the window, his short height allowing his chin to rest on the ledge.

“She turned into a tree!”

“What?” Jenny ran over to look for herself.

The huge pine tree was leaned over, but they couldn’t find the top of it.

Suddenly, they heard a cry:

“Help! Can anyone hear me?”

Jenny started for the front door.

“Wait, it could be a trap!”

“James, she needs help. She’s not a sorceress!”

After rapping on the wooden door, Jenny shouted, “Hello? Is anyone home?”

“Help!” a muffled voice answered. “The tree trapped me, and I’m pinned against the door.”

“Hold on!” Jenny replied. She knelt on the ground, brushed away the snow, and scraped up as many rocks as she could.

When she began throwing the rocks at the window, James thought she was crazy.

“Now the scary lady is going to be mad we broke her window!”

“Grow up, James, and stop believing all the childish stories you hear from your friends. Anna needs our help, whether we know her well or not.”

James frowned, thinking to himself. Maybe Jenny was right. So, he joined in the rock-throwing.

Finally, the glass of the window shattered.

“I think you should climb in because you’re smaller,” Jenny said. “Here, I’ll boost you up.”

She cupped her hands and lifted James up by his feet.

Careful to not get cut on the class, James slunk in slowly.

Anna lit up when she saw James, but the tree had clearly pinned her to the door.

“Honey, I don’t think you’re big enough to help.”

“Are you injured?” Jenny shouted in the window.

“Nothing broken, I think. But if I don’t get out of here, I’ll miss Mass.”

Then Jenny had an idea. “Jimmy, you stay with Anna, and I’ll go for help.”

“It’s getting dark out,” Anna said. Give your sister my flashlight. It’s over on the mantel, above the fireplace.”

James scurried to get the flashlight, still in awe that the scary organ lady could talk. Now Jenny was going to leave him here.

James watched Jenny until the glow of the flashlight was out of sight. The chill of the winter night blew through the cottage, rustling the curtains. Even the fire felt the cold until it was nearly gone.

Anna hadn’t said anything, so James felt compelled to say something. “My name is J-James, ma’am.”

Anna nodded slightly, grimacing under the weight of the tree. “Why are you scared of me?”

“Me?” James felt his heart jump. “I-I’m not afraid!”

“The town doesn’t understand the way I live, James. I like peace and nature. I don’t like drama or rumors, but it seems what I’ve tried to escape comes back to slap me in the face. A little boy like you shouldn’t be afraid of me. I’m just a person like you!”

“So you’re not–“

“A witch? A werewolf? An axe-murderer?” She laughed lightly. “Heavens, no! How could I ever be a church organist if I were?”

James hadn’t considered this. “Oh. You mean you just don’t like talking to people?”

“Well, I know a lot of people don’t live simply like I do, and I’m afraid I’ll be judged if I talk too much.”

Now James was aghast. All this time he had been making fun of this poor woman who hammered out “How Great Thou Art” on the organ.

“Anna, I’m sorry I’ve been so mean to you. I thought my friends knew what they were talking about. It was kind of fun.”

Anna smiled weakly as she tried to shift her weight. “James, I appreciate your kindness.”

“I’m going to make sure everyone sees how great you are!”

She seemed like she didn’t hear him. “What time is it?

James checked his watch. “8:30.”

Anna’s face turned white. “Mass has already started without me! The one thing I love has been taken away from me now! I bet no one even misses me.”

“I care!” James exclaimed, “and I’m going to make sure that everyone appreciates you!”

After a while Anna dozed off, and James tried to tuck a blanket around her. He himself shivered as he looked out the window, wondering what was taking Jenny so long.

Just as James was drifting off to sleep, he heard a trample of feet and saw lights in the distance.

Jenny had brought the town firefighters and the men from the congregation. In no time, they lifted the tree and freed Anna.

James watched with excitement as everyone worked together to help the one woman they always gossiped about.

Then, Fr. John came forward. “Anna, I just want you to know that I didn’t even start Mass without you. I couldn’t. Your beautiful playing makes our church holier each time you’re behind the keyboard. You are appreciated and loved more than you know!”

Anna smiled, tears running down her cheeks. Maybe she was understood after all.

THE END!

Legacy of Band Aid

In 1984, the song “Do They Know It’s Christmas” took the world by storm, raising money for Ethiopian Famine Relief. Almost 40 years later, this track continues to be popular despite criticisms.

In my second official video essay, I fact-check the song and prove that it is worthy to stand the test of time, which it already has. The power of music can in fact help change the world for the better.

The video is posted on the Confessions of a Classic Soul YouTube channel, but you can also find it below. Please be sure to subscribe to my channel for more video essays and blog teases!

Nagatolli Italian “Donut” Cookies

A Cookie to Balance Your Christmas Platter!

Christmas is the time of year when families attempt new cookie recipes and rely on the same traditional recipes. Recipes that have been passed down through the generations are extra special, especially as they represent ethnic backgrounds and history.

My paternal grandmother was Italian, with her eldest sister traveling on a boat to America with my great-grandmother. One of Grandma Helen’s classic Christmas cookie recipes is a small, donut-like cookie made from fried dough.

Nagatolli cookies aren’t too sweet, and they pair well with hot beverages. So, if you’re looking for a semi-healthy (and dog-safe) cookie, Nagatollis may be for you!

Grandma’s recipe is below! ⬇️

Ingredients

Please note that you can also use a pot with vegetable oil or canola oil instead of a deep fryer.

Instructions

Mixing up the dough is pretty straightforward (see below). The amount of oil in the egg-shells can be substituted for an actual measurement, but we don’t talk about math on Confessions of a Classic Soul!

You may need to get your hands dirty to form the dough. You can add more than five cups of flour if your dough feels too wet. However, beware of making the dough too “flour-y.” In this case, you add a tad more sugar and vanilla.

Once your dough is ready, set up your preferred method of frying the dough. My family has a small deep fryer that plugs into an outlet. Although I have never tried an air fryer, I see no reason why it shouldn’t produce similar results. Alternatively, you can simply put oil in a saucepan, boil it, and dip your dough rings in until fried.

Okay, dough rings. Form about 1-inch (or larger) rings with your dough. My dad and I have a process where he makes the rings and sets them aside on a plate or cutting board for me to fry.

When frying the cookies, take a metal spoon or spatula and set the dough rings on it. Place the dough in the boiling oil and leave them there until the dough turns golden. Try to balance the color. In other words, don’t leave the cookies too doughy or too golden (aka overfried and quite crunchy).

Normally we don’t add anything else to the cookies once they’re fried. If you’d like to add powdered sugar or any other garnish, go for it!

Let me know in the comments how your Nagatollis turned out, or if you have any questions!

How Are the Neighbors? (Monthly Mixtape)

If curiosity killed the cat, then know it hasn’t always helped humans, either. When was the last time you peeked out your window to spy on your neighbor or to see what’s happening on the street below?

Don’t worry, the inclination to be nosy is innate. Face it, we wouldn’t make scientific advancements or new products without it! In 1986, Robbie Nevil, on his debut album, wrote and sang a fun, fantastic song called “Neighbors.” This track celebrates that habit of knowing and gossiping about neighbors.

Robbie Nevil’s career as a recording artist may have went partly unnoticed in the ’80s, except for the top-ten tracks “C’est La Vie” and “Wot’s It To Ya,” but his short time as an indie singer/songwriter is legendary. Nevil, who continues his prolific songwriting career today, although seemingly out of the spotlight, is one of those rare ’80s gems. In analyzing Nevil’s synthesized-pop/part-rock groovy sound, I can’t help but identify his smooth vocals as an unexpected blend of George Michael, Richard Marx, Kenny Loggins, and, perhaps, even Prince. This insane, but addictive, mix allows both of Nevil’s solo albums to speak for themselves as lost ’80s treasures!

“Neighbors”

I like the bounce to the guitar introduction. It teases the idea that this song may not be fully serious. Like other songs off the debut album, the light-heartedness shines through, especially during the first few measures.

Personally, I imagine a big apartment building when I visualize this song. Throughout, we the listeners are introduced to a wild range of characters, and the quick rate at which we are introduced does in fact mirror the busy comings and goings of an apartment building. Heck, this even reminds me of college dorm life!

Right away, the characters are eccentric. Katy is living it up in her own apartment. George is a bookie, and the person upstairs is the health nut. Each of these characters’ quirks show how varied individuals truly are. You never know who you could be living by! Even if these characters are purely fictional, Nevil has described them in familiar ways. Listeners have no reason not to believe him. Many of us can point out the health nut in our own lives (well, I’m still thinking on that one!). These people feel like our own neighbors!

Revisiting Nevil’s vocals again, I can’t help but point out how the notes change depending on the words. Some lyrics are more intense than others. Some have higher pitches. For example, did you notice the intonation on “fruit”? This little detail added to the negative connotation of the person upstairs as a crazy health nut. Just amazing!

“Faces are storybooks”? This line sounds a bit odd at first, but, as the song continues, it makes more sense. Everyone has a story to tell, a mystery for others to unravel. We each have our own upbringings and personalities. Each of us is a storybook!

The second verse introduces another set of eccentric characters, even Mrs. Jones, who’s never been seen. Um….is Mrs. Jones even her name? Can we know for sure? Rumors, gossip, and soap opera-like plots whisk in and out as Nevil provides a quick rundown of his neighbors. The reference to Sarge, the ex-marine, is a wonderful tribute, since most people can pinpoint that one person who has served in the U.S. military. American pride is still at the heart of this odd neighborhood!

Tones shift throughout the song. Sometimes Nevil presents prideful vibes, irritated vibes, uncertain vibes, and comical vibes. Then again, these feelings are relatable. Don’t you get irritated with your neighbors? I particularly like the lines: “Some are you, / some are me.” The ordinary experience of being a neighbor who lives around other neighbors is captured so clearly and amusingly. When hearing this song, it is so hard NOT to smile!

So, the next time you peek your head behind the curtain to figure out what on earth your neighbor is doing, or to see how the accident at the intersection happened, you may want to have this song stuck in your head!

Before You Go…

Don’t forget to listen and subscribe to the Guilty Pleasures of a Classic Soul playlist, which compiles all songs featured on Monthly Mixtape! You can now listen on either YouTube or Spotify!

First Video Essay On YouTube!

Best Sitcom Characters To Have At Your Thanksgiving Table

As this year’s round of holidays begin, many of us might be reminded that we can’t pick our families. True, we may not have the chance to choose who we eat Thanksgiving dinner with, but we can dream about what that dinner would look like if we could invite a mix of sitcom characters. Here is an amusing assortment of classic TV sitcom characters who would make for an interesting and quirky holiday. At least you wouldn’t be related to them at the end of the day!

Here is my list of sitcom characters who would make for a very amusing Thanksgiving dinner…

1. Thelma Harper

The turkey better be the only dead thing on the table!

Thelma Harper, aka “Mama” on the ’80s sitcom Mama’s Family is one bold ol’ granny. She can pack quite a punch with her comebacks and arguments. Although she’s one tough bird to have seated at your Thanksgiving table, she does know how to cook. Don’t touch her kitchen, and she can whip up a hearty meal. Give any attitude or nonsense, and she’ll sending you packing. Thelma is the perfect grandmother to set the crazy family members straight. Granted, she would be the type to throw the food during the drama. But, rest assured that she will stop any and ALL drama!

2. Alice

Is that…bread?

Okay, it never hurts to have more than one cook on Thanksgiving. While Mama Harper is the queen of her own kitchen, Alice has spent years cooking for the entire Brady family. Although I’m not a huge fan of The Brady Bunch, Alice is easily my favorite character because of her quick wit and easy-going temperament. She can bring the charm and the dessert, provided she can take it out of the oven on time after chasing around six kids. Alice is practical and realistic. She would be a hoot to have dinner with!

3. Carl and Harriet Winslow

As long as he doesn’t bring Urkel (which he won’t ), we’re good!

Ah, Carl. The patriarch of Family Matters never truly gets a rest as new problems always pop up in the large family. Even worse, neighbor Steve Urkel is always unintentionally causing mischief. As a cop and all-American dad, Carl deserves a sit-down Thanksgiving dinner. Out of all the guests, I’d choose Carl to carve the turkey at the head of the table! Harriet, of course, is lovely and could use a break from the cooking.

4. Lamont Sanford

Well…do you want to know the answer to that question?

Poor Lamont. He’s always caught in the middle of his father’s stubborn and dramatic ways. When he’s not arguing with or chasing around his father, Lamont does find time to go out with friends and go on dates. However, he’s the one who would be stuck cooking the entire Thanksgiving dinner! Lamont is pretty level-headed and polite, so there’s no reason for him not to come!

5. Gomez and Morticia

Okay, so their the weird aunt and uncle!

Yes, I thought long and hard about this pair. Is there any evidence that they don’t eat traditional Thanksgiving food? Surely they would be the oddest couple there, but they truly are considerate and quite hospitable, friendly, too. Your dinner conversations might be freaky and unusual, but you wouldn’t be bored. In fact, it could be a very intellectually stimulating conversation!

6. Ed and Trixie Norton

Remember, we want Ed on the left, not Ralph on the right!

Notice it’s not the Honeymooners Ralph and Alice Kramden, but their friends. Although Ralph does have a heart underneath his self-serving ways, we don’t want to risk any drama at this Thanksgiving table. Ed is a bit flighty, but he means well. He’s not the brightest, but he’ll be grateful for the meal…and quite chatty, too. Just imagine a conversation between him and Gomez! Ed would believe every word!

7. Howard and Bernadette Wolowitz

Okay, this last pair is modern, but Big Bang Theory would agree that Howard and Bernadette would be cool to have dinner with. Howard would make sarcastic jokes the whole time, but some of the other characters probably wouldn’t notice. Granted, Howard and Bernadette probably wouldn’t enjoy the meal too much, but their reactions would be worth seeing. Together, they are famous for their back-and-forth quips as a married couple, and the other couples at the table will surely relate to their banter. Plus, these two need a break from their two kids, and both Raj and Stuart would jump at a chance to babysit!

Is the Turkey Done Yet?

With a very diverse group of classic sitcom characters, what could possibly go wrong at Thanksgiving dinner? Well, we don’t actually want to know that answer. For now we’ll settle with daydreaming!

Wishing all my readers (and their families) a very happy and blessed Thanksgiving!

Classic Monsters Spark Romance (Monthly Mixtape)

Frankenstein is…attractive? Dracula uses extra whitener before a date? While the monsters themselves may not be classified as true ladies’ men, a jazzy 1959 track tells the story of a girl who only gets her romance on during horror movies.

The 1950s music scene was ripe with infectious novelty songs, with the end of the decade as no exception. The Diamonds were known for their covers of currently famous hits, but one of their catchy grooves was not a cover: “Batman, Wolfman, Frankenstein, Or Dracula.” Sure, it’s a bit of a tongue-twister, but the title sparks questions and intrigue, especially the word “or.” Why isn’t it “and”?

Spooky season is in full swing, meaning this lost song by The Diamonds is a must-have on the Confessions of a Classic Soul Halloween party playlist!

“Batman, Wolfman, Frankenstein, and Dracula”

Perhaps the best part of the song’s introduction is the resemblance to “The Blob” and “The Purple People Eater.” Although all three saxophone rhythms are not identical to each other, there is a playful bounce to each theme, despite the horror context. Each solo is uniquely impressive with the likes of higher ranges, trills, etc. The saxophone on this track implies that the subject matter will not be totally serious.

Dave Somerville, the lead singer of the Diamonds, has a signature baritone voice that does not go unnoticed on this single. In fact, his timbre (aka “color” of his voice) adds to the romance he’s craving and the way he tries to lure in his date.

1950’s culture is heavily at play with the “movie show” setting, as theaters, especially drive-ins, became increasingly popular at this time. Going to catch a movie show was typical for teenage couples on dates, and this couple represents the culture!

However, the girl ranks high above standards when it comes to romance! Clearly she likes anything creepy and scary, and these films are the key to winning her heart. Before analyzing this relationship further, several words must be discussed: the chorus.

“It takes the Batman, Wolfman, Frankenstein or Dracula / To put her in the mood for love
It takes the Cat Girl, Dog Boy, Creature from the Black Lagoon / To make her feel like making love”
Songwriter: Roy Alfred

“The” Batman? Is that, you know, “I’m Batman” Batman? Or is this just a man who is a bat? Wolfman, Frankenstein, Dracula, and Creature from the Black Lagoon are of course four of the classic Universal horror movie monsters. Creepy and scary? You bet! If Batman and Cat Girl are indeed references to the DC comic and show, then fans can’t help but wonder how Batman is scary, unless only the villains should be showcased here. Nonetheless, the image of a deformed or costumed human can be frightening. Horror and suspense is enough to make this girl happy!

What about the “or”? This lyric suggests that the girl only needs one of these creatures to put her in the mood. What would happen if they were all in the same film?!

One misconception of this song from the first listen is that the girl only cozies up to Somerville because horror movies leave her fearful. On the contrary, she simply finds horror exciting! She is not a hopeless romantic and becomes interested when suspense is involved. The irony of the song adds to the playful tone, especially with the screams and saxophone riff in the background.

What makes this song truly stand out from its time is the reversal of gender roles. Instead of portraying this girl as vulnerable and in need of a man’s touch, she is bold and, dare we say, freaky. All that is known about this girl is her “quaint” sense of romance, yet this insight is so groundbreaking because she is not a quiet, submissive, or fragile young lady. For a song like this to come from the nuclear family culture of the ’50s is rare. It’s certainly a keeper!

Before You Go…

Don’t forget to follow the Guilty Pleasures of a Classic Soul playlist which includes all songs featured on Monthly Mixtape. You can now listen on either YouTube or Spotify!

ABBA + Rush = Desires (Monthly Mixtape)

The disco and rock-driven 1970s music scene also encompassed a rich variety of genres underneath the mainstream sound. Behind the disco ball were bright pop icons like ABBA and progressive rock legends like Rush. However, to uncover similarities between these two extreme sounds of the ’70s–one very light and synthesized, the other very heavy and intense–would leave fans of both supergroups scratching their heads.

But here at Confessions of a Classic Soul, the more unexpected, the better. I grew up with ABBA songs in the background, but I had never heard of Rush until high school (which was only a few years ago). My French teacher was a mega fan, but because I was fascinated with New Wave and lighter ’70s and ’80s essentials, she told me I wouldn’t like them. Well, fast-forward five or six years, and I’ve now begun sampling songs from Rush’s discography. Although I may not be an expert quite yet, I am still able to recognize and fall in love with the legendary Canadian rock group!

Because my new job is quite demanding and I unfortunately had to forgo an August Monthly Mixtape, this review features two songs whose lyrics collide in uncanny ways. ABBA’s “Gimme! Gimme! Gimme! (A Man After Midnight)” and Rush’s “Something for Nothing” focus on desire and satisfaction. How those desires are to be quenched vary, with one song ultimately “giving” advice to the other.

ABBA: “Gimme! Gimme! Gimme! (A Man After Midnight)”

ABBA’s “Gimme! Gimme! Gimme! (A Man After Midnight)

Although this track is classified as disco, it does not quite match the Saturday Night Fever vibe. “Gimme! Gimme!” begins mysteriously, setting the dark and desperate mood in which Agnetha Fältskog’s vocals will soon echo. The upbeat synthesized runs not only mirror the wind that will pop up in the lyrics, but it also lends itself to an electrified sound.

Right away, the harmony on “half past twelve” adds to the intensity, and the fact that time in this song is already late. The loneliness and desire for a lover is already clear, and the specificity of “autumn” winds, as opposed to any other season, imply that the chill in the air is not unlike Agnetha’s despair. Winter winds would likely be harsh, but autumn winds show the beginning of decay as leaves fall. For Agnetha, hope may still linger.

The repetition of “Gimme!” further shows the desperation for love and the fear of cold loneliness. At the same time, the rising and falling of Agnetha’s notes in the chorus demonstrate how Agnetha’s tone fluctuates throughout the song. The despair is obvious, but at times she sounds slightly hopeful, other times melancholy.

Meanwhile, the second verse draws in the outside world, especially the culture Agnetha’s living in. She compares the love and success she sees on the screen to her own life. Her life of darkness and loneliness is not so cheerful as a movie star’s glamorous lifestyle. The desperation here takes a turn and separates fiction from reality. Outside of her window, Agnetha finds the natural and authentic, even if it’s not a promising view. The TV/movie success, especially in the romance department, isn’t always what it appears to be. If it is false, then Agnetha will surely find the rainbow at the end. This song also indirectly points out how TV can make viewers feel isolated with idealistic and unrealistic views. With nothing but a screen and a window, life is lonely.

The repeats of the chorus, along with the familiar instrumental runs, continue the intense desperation. Sadly, the song does not come full circle. It fades with the same loneliness as when it started. In an odd way, the music is so fascinating that the song could (and should) continue. Would the ending ever change?

Rush: “Something For Nothing”

Rush’s “Something For Nothing”; Disclaimer: if you attempt to read the lyrics in this video, you will hurt your eyes (been there, done that) 🙂

Rush found great success with their 1976 album 2112. Their song “Something For Nothing”, however, feels overlooked.

A gentle guitar opening paves the way for lead vocalist Geddy Lee to introduce the song with wind and clouds. Immediately a loneliness enters as success has been a long time coming. After “countless ways,” guitarist Alex Lifeson amps up the intensity, a warning of potential shattered dreams.

The second person view from this song creates a detachment from Lee and the listeners. Instead of lamenting about personal experiences, Lee is talking to listeners, even if it feels like he’s talking down to them. The warning here is that you can wait around for open doors, but you can’t just expect them to open magically.

The message of the song is pretty transparent: no matter where you want to go in life, hard work and effort are key ingredients. Knowledge, skills, and experiences grow with time, and you have to be part of the process 100% of the way. Well, we are talking Rush here, so make that 110%. The repetition of the chorus emphasizes the message, and the solos in between the repeat just go to show how important this message actually is.

Kingdom, glory, heads, anchors–what on earth is he talking about? It’s the same old message with the extra oompf (come on, did you expect anything less from Rush?). At the core, Lee proclaims that you only get out of something what you put in. There is a focus on the individual. What is it that you want to do? What is it that’ll you’ll own as a result? The strength and desire to become who you want is already in your head, as Lee explains, but you still need to go the mile. The mile doesn’t come to you.

Is this a kick@$$ motivational anthem? You bet!

The Advice

In looking at both songs, we find a desire and an endgoal. Agnetha desires love, while Lee points out the human desire to succeed and make something of one’s self.

Similar forces of nature appear in each song, notably wind and a rainbow’s end. In both, wind represents change, whether positive or negative. Success, whether it be love, career, or money, waits at the end of that rainbow, despite the cliché.

Rush focuses on the realities of life, while ABBA remains centered on finding a romantic relationship. Both songs capture the search for desire, but, with a realistic outlook on life, “Something For Nothing” could give advice for finding that “man after midnight.” For instance, if the singers of each band were indeed singing “at” the other, Lee would undoubtedly be telling Agnetha to go out and meet people instead of staying home alone with the depressing (and unrealistic) television set. Angetha could keep looking out her window and dreaming for that man, but how could she accomplish that dream if she never leaves home to search? She can’t get “something for nothing,” and certainly not “freedom.” She has to put in the effort in order to establish that “kingdom” and “glory.”

Is the Quest Complete, or What?

Yeah….not really. This conclusion, however, depends on the song. Listeners don’t receive a definite answer about Agnetha’s fate, so the outcome rests on imagination. On the other hand, Lee’s encouragement, thanks to his wild and awesome vocals, implies that the message will resonate, and listeners can bring dreams to fruition.

Desire is an intense human emotion, and how it is handled makes all the difference in the end results. So, will you get the man after midnight? Will you make any other dreams come true? If you follow Rush, you may achieve it all BEFORE midnight! Good luck!

Before You Go…

Don’t forget to follow the Guilty Pleasures of a Classic Soul playlist which includes all songs featured on Monthly Mixtape. You can now listen on either YouTube or Spotify!

Winding the Clock: Old Souls and Nostalgia

Okay, Boomer critics, I’m here to tell you that nostalgia impacts people of all ages, not just older individuals. Because Confessions of a Classic Soul readers are old souls of various ages, nostalgia is an umbrella term, as no two individuals, even of the same age, experience nostalgia in an identical manner.

Why the craving to relive the past? Nostalgia is not simple and clear cut, so why should all forms of nostalgia be the same?

Ready to take a dive into the past?

Nostalgia, Who’s She?

According to Svetlana Boym in her book The Future of Nostalgia, the term “nostalgia” is derived from Greek, where “Nostos” refers to a return home and “algia” refers to a longing. In other words, nostalgia is a desire for a home that either no longer exists or never existed (XIII).

With this definition in mind, the common conception of “nostalgia” is not fully recognized. In modern times, we associate nostalgia with a longing for the past. A home is a place, an object, while the past is time. As a result, contemporary conceptions nostalgia are complex. After all, the doctors in the 17th century thought nostalgia could be cured (Boym XIV)!

Simple, like Childhood

Okay, now Boomers can enter the discussion. As today’s technology grows more and more innovative, older individuals naturally long to revisit their younger days when technology wasn’t so complicated. Grandparents may not understand why 5G is a huge deal, but they are eager to hand-write letters to friends because these messages feel more authentic. They want to stick to the simple, tried-and-true methods they have known all their life.

Nostalgia works in many forms in older adults. It should come as no surprise that humans hate change, even though they are inevitably creatures of change. At the end of the day, many individuals miss what they used to have. On one hand, individuals may long for their childhood homes, especially if they moved across the country or if an old home no longer physically exists. On the other hand, lifestyles and habits change over time as individuals mature and enter career transitions. For instance, the transition from college to the workforce can be incredibly difficult for new adults who aren’t used to working eight-hour weeks, including in the summer months. Friends aren’t physically as close as they used to be, so nostalgia pops up as a longing for old times. Therefore, nostalgia is dynamic and impacts all ages.

Kids with Older Parents

Parents are embarrassing, but parents can be cool, especially if they’re older. As an only child of older parents, I can confidently say that my upbringing leaves me longing to take a daytrip into the ’60s, ’70s, or ’80s. This type of nostalgia veers away from the idea of “reliving the past,” especially when that past was never truly lived through. It’s a longing for a time that one is simply not allowed to experience in it’s entirety–it’s a time that doesn’t “exist.” Sure, younger generations can don the classic rock t-shirts and bell-bottom pants, but they will never have to use a payphone everyday or enjoy streets lined with huge department stores.

On the flipside, children of older parents do experience the nostalgia of childhood like everyone else. When that childhood includes elements of past cultures, such as music, TV shows, décor, etc., adults will potentially miss those older cultures and long for them even more.

Photo by Bruno Cantuu00e1ria on Pexels.com

My own childhood fits into this nostalgia perfectly. I often tell the story of listening to my mom’s ’50s and ’60s Solid Gold Rock n’ Roll cassette tapes back when our old stereo’s cassette player worked properly. As a kid, I made up lyrics, created lipped-synched choreography routines, and had my own dolls and stuffed animals sing the bouncy tunes. Now that I’m older, the same music reminds me of those summers when I was carefree before my dad got sick with his paralysis and before I grew up to be a teacher.

What’s the catch here? Many children of older generations have old soul personalities, so nostalgia is embedded into their way of life.

Old Soul Wisdom

Old souls are known for having wisdom and giving the best advice; because old souls love the past, they tend to look to the past provide advice. History repeats itself, and old souls have a keen eye for remembering those events and details. Whether it’s bringing up what worked for other generations or simply repeating old adages that have withstood the test of time, old souls are logical thinkers who want to help better the world. Old souls are good listeners, but they’re also great advice-givers because they have empathy and nostalgia on their side!

Capturing the Past

Younger generations have a unspoken duty to hold onto the times of old. When parents and grandparents pass away, photo albums, recipes, and family heirlooms are all handed down to younger family members who then use and display these mementos in their own homes. Physical reminders of loved ones and the memories associated with them (think things like photographs and old furniture), live on through a nostalgic lens. The memories recalled by these items lead to a longing for memories to be relived and renewed. As a result, nostalgia paves the way for potential depression.

Then again, not all nostalgia is mournful. Many family members take on genealogical projects in order to preserve their family’s history and memories. Because old souls typically love to research and fulfill their curiosity cravings, family members with this personality are the best choice for heading these projects. After all, old souls love to dive deep into their passions. When they want information, they’ll find a way to locate the accurate research. For old souls, capturing the past and keeping it alive is a source of fuel for their identity.

“Like Sands Through the Hourglass…”

We can never escape the nostalgia of our lives. Okay, that’s not the correct quote, but it goes to show that the sand will continue flowing through the hourglass, and to be nostalgic is to be human. Everyone encounters nostalgia differently due to age and experience, but old souls have the ability to use nostalgia to their advantage, whether it be preserving past memories or longing for decades they’ll never be able to fully live in. All nostalgia doesn’t have to be negative; in fact, nostalgia can lead to new roads and new memories that embody the old. Nostalgia hurts and nostalgia excites. At the end of the day, the clock will be ticking, and we can’t turn time back. Instead, with the help of old souls, we can embrace it and love life–past, present, and future!