Dec 16 2008
Up, up and away!
Hello, music fans – and welcome to your source for everything SUNSHINE POP!
This will be a spectacular trip for us all. Whether you remember the ‘60s or not, and whether you’re a Baby Boomer or a teenager or something in between, you’ll find something groovy here. Just keep reading and let us explore the sweet, summery sounds of a time when life seemed simpler than today.
Sunshine pop. What is that, exactly? It is a musical genre that flourished from the mid-‘60s until the early ‘70s – and you know it when you hear it. A few of these songs were typical AM radio fodder, although many of them have remained obscure. Some of the tunes were considered experimental in their sound and some were not. Yet they all seem to radiate an unmistakable energy. Back in the day, this music provided a welcome escape for listeners, especially in such chaotic and troubled times. Against the backdrop of the Vietnam War and the Civil Rights Movement, sunshine pop transmitted nothing but happy feelings. With their fluid harmonies and stylish production values – all in a 3-minute package (more or less) – these songs were life rafts of hope in a turbulent world.
Now sit back, relax … and come up to the sunshine!
Hey there, I am enjoying your blog. Up, Up and Away brings to mind the song “Blowin’ Away - written (1966) and sung by Laura Nyro on her first album, More Than a New Discovery, which was released in February of 1967. The album’s ten songs gave a full range of rollicking shuffle-beat tunes and downbeat jazz laments. Blowing Away was a full-out expression of Joy and Celebration of Life and Loving and Being High.
I am sitting back and relaxing!
Thanks,
Marie-Suzanne
You are so incredibly psychic. I was just about to write a post about “Blowing Away”, but it was the 5th Dimension’s version — and then I wanted to introduce Laura Nyro, as a sunshine pop composer. Stay tuned!
Even though this is a new release it brought back memories of the good old days of music and it’s fun!!!
Young and old alike…and you are a shining light!!
Brings to mind: Laura Nyro’s tune “Light-Pop’s Principle”
Relaxed and Tuned
Marie-Suzanne