'50s On 5
- It Happened Today-The Skyliners & Jimmy Beaumont (I read an interview with Paul Simon in which he mentioned that music from the '50s had a sound of its own. This tune's doo-wop style exemplifies that sound.)
- Puttin' On The Ritz-Taco (An unlikely choice for a cover tune in the '80s; not making it sound overly contemporary was a smart choice.)
- All I Want-Joni Mitchell (The leadoff track on Mitchell's acclaimed "Blue" album, which defines what the protagonist seeks after a breakup.)
- I Can See Everything-Poco (The lyrics illustrate how giving someone another chance might be advisable. If you like the band's harmony singing on "Crazy Love," this will likely appeal to you.)
- Fade Into You-Mazzy Star (Subtle indie rock with a waltz-like tempo and a fuzzy guitar sound that holds up.)
- Moon River Cha Cha-Henry Mancini (Not the most obvious style for this standard, but it works.)
- Closing Time-Semisonic (The tune still works as a theme for leaving a bar but also works on a more general level for graduations, moves, and job changes.)
- Shadows In The Moonlight-Anne Murray (One of Murray's more appealing, uptempo hits that doesn't get much radio airplay today.)
- I'll Remember April-Erroll Garner Trio (A combo that cooks, with Garner's piano leading the way.)
- Stay In My Corner-The Dells (Smooth harmony singing. Oldies stations should play this more often.)
- Then Came You-Dionne Warwick & The Spinners (A great blend of lead and backing singers pull off timeless lyrics.)
- Prayer For The Dying-Seal (One of Seal's most gripping songs; somber lyrics, sung with exactly the right degree of emotion.)
