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LEARN HOW TO MAKE OUR TYPE LARGER

	Just a thought
	Betty Lammers

You call that music?
Published September/October 2002

Musician smashing guitar

I have always loved music. Growing up in the Big Band Era, you couldn't resist the good music and dancing we all enjoyed. In the 40s we would take a train to New York City and see a first-class movie followed by a live stage show at the Paramount or Radio City Music Hall and if you went to the early shows they were very affordable. The big band was on stage and they had one male and one female singer who would approach the microphone, sing and then return to their seat. It was a set pattern.

I have tried to keep up with the changes in music. Tried is the secret word. After Glenn Miller, Tommy and Jimmy Dorsey and the other great orchestras, we went to rock and roll. It had a good beat and after a slight adjustment in attitude my foot was tapping to that, too. Elvis Presley, Buddy Holly and Jerry Lee Lewis were a smash and I always liked the Beatles. Motown came next and gave listeners a great taste of rhythm and blues. It was this soulful sound that opened doors for talented black musicians such as Marvin Gaye and Aretha Franklin.

Acoustic music became popular during the 1960s and was influential in expressing the feelings of young people in such turbulent times. Artists such as James Taylor, Carole King and Simon and Garfunkel were favorites of mine and I still enjoy their type of music today.

Then came rap. Ugh! I remember saying, "Well, this surely won't last." But it has. I am told the words are raunchy, but I can't understand anything they say anyway. They pace across the stage, both the guys and girls with their baggy clothes shouting in rhyme. I just want it to go away.

Then there is something called Heavy Metal and they make lots of noise, dress in dark gothic-looking clothes and hop around as if they are having a fit, with the amps turned up to the highest level. Where on earth do they practice? What mother's garage would be welcoming to them?

Before my daughter, Donna's, upcoming wedding, I was invited to go along to the inevitable bachelorette party. I hesitated, but when I understood that the music of the 40s was going to be played, I coerced the mother of the groom to go along also. Unfortunately, it was my wrong assumption. We found out amid a lot of amplification that it was to be the "Top 40." However, after a while, it didn't sound bad.

I know I sound old, but I do think music should consist of more than just yelling. I try to continue to keep up with today's artists and really enjoy some of the current tunes. Billy Joel, Elton John and Bonnie Raitt are a few of the musicians I like listening to. I do admit, however, I miss Perry Como singing leisurely in his cardigan sweater.

E-mail Betty Lammers at betty@homefrontmagazine.com.

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