Listening Lyrics Archives

Stevland Hardaway Morris (born Judkins; born May 13, 1950), known as Stevie Wonder, is an American singer, songwriter, musician and record producer. A prominent figure in popular music during the second half of the 20th century, Wonder is among the top ranks of successful songwriters and musicians. A virtual one-man band, his use of synthesizers and electronic musical instruments during the 1970s reshaped the conventions of R&B. He also helped drive the genre into the album era, crafting his LPs as cohesive, consistent, socially conscious statements with complex compositions. Wonder, often hailed as a genius, has been credited as a pioneer and influence to musicians of various genres, including rhythm and blues, pop, soul, gospel, funk and jazz.

This week Listening Lyrics plays tunes that include everyday nonmusical instruments, like the anvil. We open the show with a song (that you probably know) using an anvil.

Other songs use such items as a lighter, typewriter, chainsaw, elevator shaft, Coke cans, factory sounds, saws and wine glasses.

Listen and enjoy!

Billy D. Thompson is a Sacramento-based musician, songwriter, and producer. He is active in the local music scene, performing and recording with several groups including The Gold Souls, City of Trees Brass Band, and Ten Foot Tiger.

Below is a short bio of Jenn Rogar - visit her at http://jennrogar.com for more information.

"I started singing as a child in my room growing up in Los Angeles (Van Nuys and Woodland Hills) to singers like Elton John, Helen Reddy and Julie Andrews. I put on plays in my garage that I wrote and performed in for my neighbors. In high school I played flute in the band and was too shy to sing. During the Karaoke craze I began to perform and also sang the title song on a CD put out by my church. I sang and performed with Monkey Business, a light-hearted singing telegram service in Sacramento in the late '80s. I have sung and performed in some fashion my whole life.