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Nancy on 7 December 2024
Morning/evening all – late to the party but enjoying the music – George Shearing was such a dear funny man and a great talent!
Karen on 7 December 2024
Morning all. Always lovely to hear David Cassidy… didn’t help me get it right though. And great artist of the week in Sam Cooke. You are currently helping to drown out the noise of the storm here in Gloucestershire. Hope all is OK in Wales Martyn.
Martyn Bassey on 7 December 2024
Good morning/evening all. Thanks Karen. Hope you are okay in Gloucestershire. I’ve got the music turned up to drown out the sound of the gale force wind as well 🎧😊
Nancy on 7 December 2024
Stay warm and dry friends. Ah winter!
Martyn Bassey on 7 December 2024
1973. Got that when I heard David Cassidy. Great song by John Denver too. 👍
Martyn Bassey on 7 December 2024
Many thanks to Sean Usher. Great music for early Saturday morning 👍🙂
Barbara Heathcote on 5 December 2024
Hi Andy just heard you play Vic Damone but there’s one song I’ve not heard you play yet. All the Things you Are. Lots of different versions have been played but I think his is a beautiful version. Please play sometime. Thank you.
Linda Ellen Price on 4 December 2024
I wrote a blog on music that is posted on my web site: Linda Ellen Price Fine Art. Your taste reminds me of my own, our parent’s era mostly. Why did it have to end? Music that was beautiful.
Simon McLean on 5 December 2024
I read your blog post about Michel Legrand too, you picked three of my favourites by him!
Adrian Long on 4 December 2024
Dear Andy
How nice to hear Ray moore My Father Had a rabbit .
Yes it’s nice to hear that chuckle at end.
Brings back memories of the great Radio 2 .
Radio 2 was the station back in those days.
But now thank god we have serenade radio to listen too.
Fraser Sutherland on 2 December 2024
‘The Quiet Hour’ with Jane Markham (3/12/24):
I seldom have the chance to listen to SR weekdays but tuning in to this programme for the first time was a real, real pleasure. Sinatra’s ‘Love’s Been Good to Me’ stopped me in my tracks, so to speak and then the almost startling beauty of Jane’s spoken voice. Tremendous listening. Thank you all.
Neil Anthony on 1 December 2024
Another great On the Town Mark this week and good to hear some nice words about Sigmund Romberg who is all too often maligned. Now I know critics often said of Mr Romberg’s tunes that audiences went into the theatre humming them and the great Benny Green once said that Romberg brought the American musical kicking and screaming into the 17th Century! But there is much pleasure to be had from Mr Romberg and his works. Thanks for another great show.
Mark Steyn on 5 December 2024
I’m not sure Benny was as sour on Romberg as he usually sounded. He had a great fascination, for example, with Princess Flavia, Rommie’s adaptation of The Prisoner of Zenda. But yeah, in those first two days of December 1924, he’s have been a Lady, Be Good man, not a Student Prince man.
Wim de Lang on 1 December 2024
Thank you again , Steve James, for your more than fantastic weekend morning shows. I hear that we share the admiration for all the Tony Hatch productions. Also your gift for picking these forgotten sixties records is exceptional.
You must be a fan of the old offshore radio stations from the mid sixties. This month there will be a special broadcast to remember 60 years of Wonderful Radio London.
I wish your program was available as a listen again version. Is there a mix cloud or something like that to give me the chance to listen to you through the week when i miss something?
Wim de Lang
Holland
Steve James on 5 December 2024
Thank you Wim and yes it’s great to be able to play those Tony Hatch productions- there were so many! – plus of course his excellent instrumental LPs for Pye records. Sadly we have no ‘listen again’ facility, so programmes vanish into the ether once they have been aired – just as they did in the 1960s…
Suzy on 30 November 2024
Wonderfully soothing and yet fun Dawn Chorus as always this weekend. Ed sets me up for the day ahead and some belated dusting now that I’m up … thanks, you! x
Catherine B on 30 November 2024
Thank you Johnny Mac for waking me with glorious Edith Piaf just now followed by Roger Whittaker (the piano accompanist was great). I heard RW singing What a Wonderful World in French earlier this week, what a treat. Not as sublime as Louis Armstrong’s version, but a good second. Serenade just keeps getting better and better. Looking forward to Christmas tunes.
Johnny Mac on 30 November 2024
Thank you, Catherine, and welcome to the gang of GEMS (Great Early Morning Stalwarts). We’re a merry bunch!
Martyn Bassey on 30 November 2024
Three great songs for the final year. I love May Each Day by Andy Williams especially. I remember he used to sing it at the end of his TV show every week.
Nancy on 30 November 2024
Mille grazie for the lovely Cilla Black tune Johnny. Off again by one year. Consistent I am tonight. 😊
Karen on 30 November 2024
Good morning and evening all. Great tunes as usual Johnny . Same as Nancy for 1961, but I got 1967 . Wonderful to hear the beautiful voice of Judith Durham.
Nancy on 30 November 2024
Howdy Miss Karen. I knew how old I was when I saw ‘Georgy Girl’ and still messed up the year (facepalm)
Nancy on 30 November 2024
What a gorgeous voice Harry Secombe had! I’m grateful to SR for all the wonderful talent they present.
Martyn Bassey on 30 November 2024
I liked Harry’s duet with Moira Anderson on Stranger In Paradise 🙂
Nancy on 30 November 2024
If not for SR I would only know Secombe from ‘Oliver’.
Martyn Bassey on 30 November 2024
1961 👍 Michael by The Highwaymen. Fabulous song. Thanks Johnny.
Edgar on 29 November 2024
That was good but it’s not the Brothers Four version of “The Green Leaves of Summer” that I know/
Dave in London on 27 November 2024
Andy, I wonder if your lady singer on the Norrie Paramor number today (Wednesday) was Patricia Clark, the Glasgow soprano. She was equally happy to be a voice of light orchestrals and of classical music. If I remember correctly she also worked with the Peter Knight Singers. Lovely voice and well suited to the arrangements of Mr Paramor.
Simon McLean on 28 November 2024
I’ve always assumed it was Patricia – she certainly sang on his ‘London After Dark’ and ‘Lovers In Tokio’ albums, so she was no stranger to the Paramor sound! I must get Lovers In Tokio on Music Box one day…
Catherine B on 27 November 2024
Dear Andy
As Christmas approaches, please don’t forget Paddy Roberts’ “Merry Christmas You Suckers”, perhaps on your Bit of Nonsense slot. If you remember I suggested this to you on your other day job, and you thought it would go down better on Serenade.
Andy Grahamme on 26 November 2024
The Quiet Hour is an absolutely brilliant programme….great music…terrific presentation. Jane would have been amazing on Radio 2 back in the days of Wogan..Moore..etc etc. She is such a class act xx
Barbara Heathcote on 25 November 2024
Hi Andy. When you start to include Christmas songs on your show can you please add Andy Williams The Most Wonderful Time of the Year. Thank you.
Alan Barker on 25 November 2024
Any chance you might play some of my fifties memories Andy from my childhood as I grew up around 1955 with the wireless as our only entertainment
Songs like If I give my heart to you .Pickin a chicken .Stranger in paradise Suddenly there’s Valley and many more I was only six but enjoyed those peaceful childhood days.
Fraser Sutherland on 24 November 2024
Lyricist Carolyn Leigh claims ‘ The Best is Yet to Come’. Well, it has and it’s called Mark Steyn’s ‘On the Town, 30th edition. Defying logic, every minute of the show was a high point in this Puccini Maestri Fest! Musetta’s Walz by the maestra of maestre, Maria Callas and fascinating Fifties takes of the more-or-less the same by Della Reese and Tony Russo. ‘O Mio Babbino Caro’ from a tremendous Sarah Brightman and ‘Nessun Dorma’ from Turandot completed ‘Cafe Continental’. Palm wine Great Ebeneezer Calendar sang ‘Double Decker Bus’ and ‘Go Home and Come Tomorrow’ in a truly fascinating Cafe Imperial. The high points continued with Lillian Raimondo, baritones Lawrence Tibbett and Robert Merrill and the delightful Kathryn Grayson duetting ‘La ci darem la mano’ with Don Giovanni Frank Sinatra! Oh and a bonus masterly throwaway line from Maestro Steyn: ‘ I don’t know if Peter Lawford liked Puccini…’ Delicious. Wicked. Roll on next Saturday and sorry, Carolyn Leigh!
Mark Steyn on 29 November 2024
Too kind, Fraser. When you’re working with Puccini, it’s pretty much just dropping into your lap. But we’ll try to live up to Miss Leigh’s dictum even without him.
Dave Phillips on 23 November 2024
Hi Kevin
Thanks for a great show a truly nice mix of songs and orchestral pieces.
You played a song by Jerry Vale whom is sadly no longer with us he had a great singing voice certainly he was underrated he should have had a place in the Great American Song book along with all those big stars at that time.
I first heard him on the Late David Jacobs show on radio 2 and then on Don Blacks show on radio2.
So thanks Kevin for playing such a fine American voice
Kevin Taylor on 27 November 2024
Hi Dave, thanks for your kind comments and acknowledging the music of Jerry Vale. I’m glad to play his music and feature him on Serenade Radio as he didn’t get the recognition as some of the other artists we play. Such a great voice!
Neil Anthony on 23 November 2024
Nice show marking the 100th anniversary of the death of Puccini, Mark. The first ever opera I saw was Tosca performed by Opera North when I was at university in Leeds. Tickets in the gods with student discount – a fiver – cheaper than the Odeon down the road. You can’t beat a bit of Puccini!
Nancy on 23 November 2024
Mark had me at Puccini (Gee-ackamo that is). Every anecdote and song had me smiling and singing away in my kitchen! One of your best shows Mr. Steyn!
Mark Steyn on 29 November 2024
Thanks, Neil. Tosca for a fiver? Can’t beat that.
Catherine on 23 November 2024
Jeff Owen’s show this morning was delightful, lots of information on tracks and artists. Keep it up.
Shawn Rannard on 22 November 2024
Hello Kevin
Thanks so much for your lovely programme “Home of the Stars”, emanating every weekend from Palm Springs. As I’m writing from the mid-North Coast of New South Wales, we receive that “shot of magic” on Sunday and Monday mornings, and how much of “Home of the Stars” I’m able to listen to, depends on the time of year. Right now I’m able to hear the entire show. The information you pass on to us about various artists is beyond brilliant, and I thank you so much for that. The music from the 1930s right up to the 1960s is the greatest of all time, and we will never again see and hear the like of the artists who brought that music to us. I know that like me, you have a soft spot for Frankie Laine; for not only his music, which is beyond compare, but also for his kind and generous nature which shines out through his voice. I know of a Sydney radio presenter who travelled over to America to meet and interview Frankie (who even welcomed this man into his home) and the resulting tapes he played on his return made me realise just what a great man Frankie Laine was. Thank you so very much, Kevin, and may Christmas be a happy and safe one for you and your family. I’ll look forward to hearing from you in 2025.
Shawn Rannard on 22 November 2024
Hello Vic
I’m writing to tell you how much I enjoyed your last programme, listening here in New South Wales, and to thank you for such a well-presented one. I’m a new listener, but am able to tune in only when I can’t sleep! I recall a song you played by Jane Morgan, but, unfortunately, not the title. That song was made famous by Connie Francis, which you did mention. I don’t know whether or not you are aware that on the 3rd May this year, Jane turned one hundred! It’s wonderful to listen to such utterly delightful music and the accompanying commentary. We just don’t get quality programmes like this in Australia, because, unfortunately, there’s nothing like Serenade Radio in Australia! Vic, I do hope Christmas is a happy and safe one for you and your family, and I’m looking forward to hearing from you again in 2025, as I am the other Serenade Radio presenters.
Vic Groves on 22 November 2024
Hello Shawn,
Thanks for getting in touch and thanks for your very kind comments. Regarding the Connie Francis song, I think you are thinking of “Who’s Sorry Now.” I think the recording I played was by Eydie Gorme, although I do have a soft spot for Jane Morgan and often play her songs. I didn’t know she was still with us! Like you, I love the music that’s played on Serenade Radio. Long may it continue. The singers, writers, bands, and orchestras of those times, and some of our times, are a cut above the norm. Thanks again for getting in touch. Keep listening. May I wish you and very happy Christmas and a peaceful New Year. Regards, Vic
Shawn Rannard on 22 November 2024
Hello David
I love listening to your programme, but that occurs only when I can’t sleep, as we get it here at a little place called Tea Gardens, in Port Stephens, New South Wales, from midnight. Thanks for the wonderful music you play, and those thoughtful little comments! Earlier this week you played a song, the title of which escapes me, but it contained only two (2) letters. After the song had finished, you said that that was probably the shortest title of any song ever (or words to that effect), and to let you know if there is a shorter title. Well, there is such a song. Back in 1952, Don Cornell recorded a song entitled “I”. Not a big hit, but…. . In closing, I’ll say that I never knew insomnia had an up side. Well, it does! Of course, it’s listening to your programme! Thanks David, all the best, and I wish you, your family, and other presenters at Serenade, a happy and safe Christmas.
David Yarnall on 25 November 2024
Hello Shawn. Thank you for getting in touch and I’m very pleased you enjoy my programme and the rest of Serenade’s output by the sound of it.
The song I played was ‘If’ although I’m blessed if I can remember by whom!! It’s an age thing you know!!
Thanks for the info regarding ‘I’ by Don Cornell. You never know it might be lurking in Serenade’s library somewhere.
I always try to give a mention to anyone who comments on my programme so I’ll do that – but when?? I’ll do anything to keep people listening!!😀
Thank you for the Christmas wishes which is my first one for this year and of course, the same to you.
Shawn Rannard on 26 November 2024
Thanks for your reply, David. I understand that in this situation it’s difficult to pin down a time to “give a mention” (as my insomnia comes in “bouts”!) so we’ll assume that you’ve already done that! Thanks once again for your wonderful programme. Shawn.
David Yarnall on 4 December 2024
I got you in this afternoon Shawn. I hope you heard it. Careful how you handle the fame!! 😂
Shawn Rannard on 8 December 2024
Thanks David, I do appreciate that very much. There really is nothing else quite like Serenade Radio! Kind regards, Shawn.
jon on 21 November 2024
Can you guys remember, was Two Way Family Favourites the BFPO British Forces Post Office??
jon on 22 November 2024
BFPO was British forces post office E.G RAF Akrotiri is BFPO 57 Cyprus
John Temple on 17 November 2024
Great to hear Anne Shelton. Thank you. I’m currently writing a book about Anne’s life and career, which I hope will be published during the course of 2025. Once again, thank you for reminding us of Annes great vocal talent.
Anne Crowcroft on 17 November 2024
Hi Mark,
Love your shows! Yesterday’s was great, especially the Quincy Jones feature. Was reminded that a young Peter Grant recorded an album around 2005. Which was heavily promoted by Michael Parkinson at the time, and did quite well. In this album he recorded “On days like these” and also “Walk away” another collaboration of Don Black’s lyrics and Matt Monroe’s singing. Both I thought Peter Grant did well.
Mark Steyn on 20 November 2024
Peter Grant’s “On Days Like These” isn’t bad, Anne. But, still, over the last half-century-plus I count maybe a dozen vocal versions and slightly fewer instrumentals. If memory serves, David Yarnall picked it as one of his “songs I wish I’d written”. So maybe he’d like to do it…
Mr David Phillips on 16 November 2024
Hi Adrian
This is a first for me listening to your SHOWSTOPPERS programme I have thoroughly enjoyed your choice of music and songs.
Absolutely brill loved your last track Cole Porters Night and Day what a great tune/song.
Adrian Jackson on 17 November 2024
Hi David, thank you for listening, I’m delighted you enjoyed Showstoppers. There will be more Cole Porter in the coming weeks, hope you’ll join me again.
David Blurton on 16 November 2024
Absolutely loving show stoppers.
Fantastic choice of theatrical music.
Much appreciated Adrian.
Looking forward to next Saturday already
Adrian Jackson on 16 November 2024
Thank you David, there will be more at 6pm next Saturday, and thank you for listening
Vanessa-Ann Dowsett on 16 November 2024
I love Showstoppers , sixty minutes of pure pleasure. Thank you Adrian
Adrian Jackson on 16 November 2024
Hello Vanessa-Ann, thank you so much for your kind comments, I’m thrilled you’re enjoying showstoppers
Steven Wall on 16 November 2024
Dear Stuart Linnell,
I enjoyed the music, you played on your programme this Sunday morning.
Thank you, particularly for your mention of Coventry, and the Elgar music. It is so vital to continue to teach our children and grandchildren. The history of our great Country, and the sacrifices made by previous generations, made for our freedom in two World Wars. My Maternal Grandfather, served, as a private in the British Army, in both World Wars, and “lived to tell the tale”. Although he never spoke of his ordeal. May God continue to bless you, and your family.
Stuart Linnell on 16 November 2024
Steven, thank you for your kind words. Remembrance means a lot to me personally too. My Dad served in the Second World War and his Dad in World War 1. Both thankfully came home, my Granddad after winning the Military Cross at Passchendaele. You are quite right. It is so important to continue to pass on the importance of what their generation went through and fought for. The words “lest we forget” sum it up don’t they? Thank you again, and thank you for listening.
Wim de Lang on 16 November 2024
Dear Steve James, I hope you can see this message because i want to tell you that your weekend program is the radio highlight of the week for me.
Your choice in records is so fantastic. Your program feels like coming home for me.
We share the same taste. Your choice in music takes me back to a period in my youth(60 s and 70 s) that brought so much melody and harmony.
Thank you so much, you are my hero…..
Warm regards from Holland.
Steve James on 16 November 2024
Hello Wim and many thanks for your kind comments. The music I play on ‘Late Night Extra’ in particular is very special to me and I’m so glad it resonates with you too. It’s lovely to able to share these neglected tracks with like-minded listeners on Serenade. Best wishes to you in Holland!
Billy Bonner on 16 November 2024
This has to be the greatest music station in the world.
Nancy on 16 November 2024
Got the last mystery year – thanks to Olivia Newton-John. A good evening of music Mr. Mac.🎵 G’nite all!
Martyn Bassey on 16 November 2024
Yes. Fabulous songs by Olivia, and Crystal Gayle. Goodnight all 😊👍
Johnny Mac on 17 November 2024
Thank you, stalwarts of A Little Night Music. You’re all GEMS 😉
Nancy on 16 November 2024
I wish we’d heard more of Cilla Black in the States back in the day. I love her sound.
Karen on 16 November 2024
Good morning all. I didn’t know Catherina Vallente was a guitarist as well as speaking all those languages and being a great singer. What an amazing talent. Good choice for the artist of the week.
Nancy on 16 November 2024
Mark Steyn’s On The Town was all about her some weeks ago. She was terrific.
Johnny Mac on 17 November 2024
Thank you, Karen.
Caterina Valente has been a guilty pleasure of mine for years since my pirate radio days. Sad we lost here in September aged 93, but we remember her unique talent on Serenade.
Martyn Bassey on 16 November 2024
Good morning / evening everyone. Great songs from 1972. Thanks Johnny 👍
Nancy on 16 November 2024
Mornin’ Martyn! Great songs indeed.
Barbara Heathcote on 13 November 2024
Hi Andy. Michael Bentines Football Pools took me back to Saturday teatime in the 1960s dad sat at kitchen table next to the radio taking down the draws etc then saying better luck next week. 😞
peter paul mangan on 13 November 2024
Andy Marriott played comedy track of Michael Bentine reading the football results.It made me wonder how many Serenade listeners still do the football pools,i do and have had the same numbers for 50 years,i wonder if any other listeners have been loyal (patient) like i have.
Geoff Jones on 10 November 2024
Thanks Roger for another good Soft Fokus. Tom Paxton sounded present day and The Shadows singing! The Linda Thompson track was written by Linda and comes from her Proxy music album. She has that problems with her singing voice. So all tracks are sung by people she has chosen. The one you played is sung by Martha Wainwright. Sister of Rufus and daughter of Louden Wainwright and the late Kate McGarrigle. Catch you again next week. Look forward to it.
Nick Hingley on 10 November 2024
And the incomparable Jake Thackray to finish. Funny and yet so poignant.
Suzy on 10 November 2024
Each weekend morning at c. 6.20am I smile at Ed’s music to dust by/not dust by as I’m lying there snuggled up under the duvet enjoying his wonderful, wonderful Dawn Chorus. Especially this morning with the beautifully multi-layered and so moving Nimrod by Amici Forever on ‘Forget-Me-Not’ day.
Bren on 16 November 2024
Hi Suzy, I really loved that Nimrod version too, really moving. Great choice by Ed
Wendy on 10 November 2024
I have been reading a book about Harold Arlen and I just got to a chapter called ‘ we’re off to see the wizard ‘ as this week’s ‘Song of the Week’ started ! It was great to hear Harold Arlen singing during the program as apparently he originally wanted to be a singer not a composer so it was good to actually hear his voice. And I can skip the chapter too because Mark Steyn always tells the stories so much better. 😉
Mark Steyn on 16 November 2024
Too kind of you, Wendy. But, if skipping that chapter frees up some reading time, Ernie Harburg has an insightful book about his dad (and Harold’s lyricist) Yip Harburg.
Wendy on 16 November 2024
Thank you for the tip off. I’ve ordered it.
Karen on 10 November 2024
Great to hear ‘you rascal, you’ by the Ink Spots on Jane’s show today. Always makes me laugh and brings back lots of happy memories.
Nick Hingley on 9 November 2024
Late Night Extra: I’m Just a Drifter – Long John Baldry
What a great version! I only knew the Ray Pollard which is a Northern Soul classic.
Also great to hear the Fairport Convention track.
Steve James on 10 November 2024
Hi Nick, yes ‘The Drifter’ is terrific isn’t it? I’ll try to dig out some more LJB tracks as you only ever tend to hear ‘Let The Heartaches Begin’ (which is great) but there’s a lot more to him than that, including his recordings with The Steampacket.
Martyn Bassey on 9 November 2024
The Cowsills. Absolutely love this song. Nice one Johnny 👍
Johnny Mac on 10 November 2024
Thank you, Martyn. And all the GEMS 💎 out there! [Great Early Morning Stalwarts]
Nancy on 11 November 2024
Don’t forget the FELF (Friday Evening Listening Faithful)
Andy Grahamme on 8 November 2024
The Saturday/Sunday morning Steve james show is just so very good. It deserves an award for being innovative unique and original. So refreshing and entertaining especially the choice of music…what was that phrase?….reaches the parts that other..etc etc…
Guy Taylor on 8 November 2024
Wow ! 😳😀 I never knew of this ! Glad to have found it on Facebook❤️👍
Steve James on 10 November 2024
Thanks Andy, that’s extremely kind of you. You’ll have me blushing! I’m glad you enjoy listening to the programmes as much as I enjoy putting them together.
Andy on 11 November 2024
…..cheers Steve….keep well..and keep on doing it!!!
Bren on 16 November 2024
You are spot on Andy, couldn’t agree more. Another example of Serenade being pretty unique, not just the type of music played, but the quality of the music and the passion of the presenters. Steve’s show is brilliant.
Steve James on 16 November 2024
Hi Bren, really glad you enjoy the Consortium tracks. You mentioned ‘House Upon The Hill’ and that’s a favourite of mine too. Hopefully I’ll remember to give it a spin for you (and me!) next weekend.
Adrian Long on 8 November 2024
Good Afternoon Simon
Nice to hear the Tokyo Melody one of the actual instrumentals which got to like instrumental music, your programme always stir my memories of the hey of instrumental music.
There so many fantastic orchestral recordings its hard to pick which ones are good.
Tell you another favourite of mind Angel in blue by General Lafayette.
Please keep the programme going it shame that more people don’t listen to this kind of music.
There while others were listening to the stones the beatles jimi hendrix I was listening to Friday night is music night and similar programmes on the good old light programme or BBC radio 2.
You never hear any one whilsting the top tunes like they use to back in the day.
I think it was the orchestral music that use to make people whistle.
Karen on 5 November 2024
Great to hear the lumberjack song this morning. I haven’t heard that in absolutely ages. Brilliant.
Robert Thomson on 3 November 2024
Another most enjoyable (is that an oxymoron?) session from Mark Steyn. Thank you.
Nancy on 2 November 2024
I’ve been looking for the lyrics of ‘She Got It Last Night’ (suggestive lyrics about a young girl getting a permanent wave) that I’d heard a street musician sing in the 70’s to no avail. Just heard ‘She Had to Go and Lose It at the Astor’ and giggled all through it. Good enough😂
Paul Ruddock on 3 November 2024
Very glad Harry Roy gave you a giggle Nancy, after all, it was risqué enough by 1940 standards for the BBC to ban it!
If there’s a particular artist you’d like Roger and I to feature in a future Dance Band Days, do let us know and we’ll try our best to include them.
Nick Hingley on 5 November 2024
I would suggest that Harry Roy etc., are banned by the BBC today, though perhaps for other reasons.
I thoroughly enjoy Dance Band Days despite the content being of my parents’, era. Perhaps ‘She Had to Go and Lose It at the Astor’ reached British ears whistling out from Captain Plugge’s Radio Normandie?
Percy Unwalla on 3 November 2024
Hey Nancy, have you tried googling for the song lyrics you want?
may be that might help you!
Percy (from Mumbai, India)
Nancy on 3 November 2024
Hi Percy! I have exhausted my IT skills searching for these lyrics – I even shut down and restarted my laptop to no avail.
Thanks for the suggestion!
Vanessa-Ann Dowsett on 2 November 2024
Showstoppers, fabulous programme absolutely loving it. Thank you all
Nancy on 2 November 2024
Mark Steyn: Eleanor Roosevelt singing (sorta) ‘High Hopes’? What next – RFK JR singing ‘My Way’? You are so cool sir.
Mark Steyn on 8 November 2024
Thank you, Nancy. We might introduce a weekly Eleanor Roosevelt triple-play. You’ll love it.
Martyn Bassey on 2 November 2024
Thanks Johnny for the three tracks from Sergio Mendes. I enjoyed them very much.
Nancy on 2 November 2024
G’nite to the Johnny Mac’s early morning listeners. It’s 11 PM here in the land of mountains and I’s tired. Our clocks change tomorrow so it’ll go easier next week…Val Doonican’s Stardust is like a lullaby. God bless all😴
Karen on 2 November 2024
Roger Whittaker followed by Eva Cassidy, a perfect calming sound for this time of day. Thank you Johnny . Roger Whittaker was my first favourite singer which was perhaps an odd choice for a 10 year old when all my friends were listening to Donny or David. Jogging round the back garden?…. staggering would be more like it. 🤣🤣
Nancy on 2 November 2024
😂😂😂
Martyn Bassey on 2 November 2024
Thanks Johnny for playing You Don’t Know by Helen Shapiro. I’ve always liked that song. 👍😊
Nancy on 2 November 2024
Saw Brubeck’s quartet in the 1980’s, heard the long form of Take Five (which was superb). Big fan of Roy Orbison (my license plate is a variation of Blue Bayou). Great stuff Johnny!
David Hilton on 1 November 2024
What if I don’t like sherry trifle. 😉 thanks, great programme as always.
Nancy on 31 October 2024
I hoped to hear Louie Prima’s Old Black Magic today – thanks Andy!
Boo👻
Julia Wilson on 30 October 2024
Where have you gone. Can’t get Alexa to play Serenade?? 🙁
Liz Atwell on 30 October 2024
I’m in love with my radio all over again🩵
Thank you Serenade.
Dave in London on 29 October 2024
Apparently Blossom Dearie’s real name was Margrethe Blossom Dearie, not Ethel Parnsworth. What a lovely voice she had, as heard on Mr Marriott’s show today. Fondly remembered for appearances on Not Only But Also – Pete and Dud’s Saturday night comedy and jazz outlet. Happy days. It’s worth looking out for her piano pieces too. Thanks from this listener.
Elaine Henry on 29 October 2024
I only discovered Serenade Radio thanks to the wonderful Mark Steyn. Listening to Steyn’s Song of the Week, happily led me to this fabulous station, and am so glad that it did. Mark’s shows are among the highlights in your scheduling, but I do thoroughly enjoy much of the music played generally on the station.
Nancy on 28 October 2024
I’m glad there’s only a week between UK and USA time change. I want to thank all my math teachers for the skills I employ to figure out when my favorite programs air🤓
Frank on 28 October 2024
David, thank you for Bing Crosby’s recitation of Lucy Gray – wonderful to hear and much appreciated.
Vic Groves on 27 October 2024
My mistake. The play was “Applause”.
Anthony Parkin on 27 October 2024
For Vic Groves…it has been said that Andy Williams dubbed the voice of Luren Bacall for many decades and in particular the film To Have and Have Not.
A myth or true is another matter.
Anthony Parkin on 27 October 2024
Can I make it clear the rumour has existed for decades. Not that he continually voiced for Luren. 🤣
Vic Groves on 27 October 2024
Ha Ha!! Understood!! Vic.
Vic Groves on 27 October 2024
Hi Anthony, Thanks for the information. I remember seeing Lureen Bacall in Star in the West End many years ago! If the rumours are true then his vocal range must have been pretty impressive. Thanks for listening. Vic
Anthony Parkin on 27 October 2024
Coincidence. Approx 38 years ago I was holiday in Brighton but too far away from the centre to get to a theatre there. I wish I could’ve. As Lauren was starring. I wonder if it was the same play.
I am so happy to have regained my interest in music. Serenade has played its part. I have also acquired a music library of thousands too.
Cheers
Anthony
Vic Groves on 27 October 2024
Hi Anthony. Thanks for that information. Much appreciated. I saw Luran Bacall in the West End ages ago. I think the production was called “Star”. Andy Williams must have had great vocal range to dub her if the “myth” is true. Thanks for listening. Vic
Karen on 26 October 2024
Another absolutely super dance band days. It really is such a treat . Although
i was born on the sixties these are the songs of my nan and her 16 brothers and sisters that i used to hear regularly
growing up . Such memories and such great tunes. Thankyou Roger and Paul.
Paul Ruddock on 27 October 2024
So pleased you’re enjoying Dance Band Days Karen, it’s a real labour of love for both Roger and I.
Do let us know if you’d like a specific tune featured and I’ll do my best to include it in a future show.
In the meantime keep your ears peeled for two very special festive editions in the run up to Christmas!
Roger Williams on 29 October 2024
Hello Karen,
Thank you for your lovely comments. Dance Band Days has freshened up nicely since Paul became involved. It’s a joy to put together and Paul makes it very easy for me.
Like you, the show takes me back to the bands and orchestras my Mum loved so much.
Roger
Barry Williams on 26 October 2024
Thanks Mark Steyn for yet another brilliant show tonight with so many interesting facts, figures, and as always great music. Thought I was a Sinatra expert but totally taken aback when ‘Ghostriders in the Sky’ by Frank hit my speakers. Didn’t know he’d recorded this song! Thanks Mark
Mark Steyn on 28 October 2024
Thank you, Barry. I always enjoy Frank singing songs he wouldn’t have chosen for himself. Wait till you hear “Woody Woodpecker”…
Nancy on 28 October 2024
Hahaha HA ha!
Catherine on 26 October 2024
FAO Peter Tomlinson What a lovely programme today, every record a joy, thank you so much.
Peter Tomlinson on 4 November 2024
My pleasure Catherine
Martyn Bassey on 26 October 2024
Many thanks to Johnny Mac and Sean Usher for two great shows in the early hours of Saturday morning. 👍👍
Nancy on 26 October 2024
💯❤️💥
Armando Loni on 26 October 2024
Steve James: Pickettywitch
Interesting version of Sound of Silence, Steve. Have you ever listened to the acoustic version of the S&G original? It deserves some love…..
Jim Wilson on 25 October 2024
Jerry Vale…probably the best “Album of the week” so far…..superb singer
Nancy on 25 October 2024
Chris Helme’s Bandstand was great today! ‘Ride of the Valkyries’ ended an hour of wonderfully fine music.
Barbara Heathcote on 24 October 2024
Hi Andy, so sad to hear of the death of Jack Jones. I believe he had been recently performing. Great voice
Dave From Donny on 9 November 2024
To Serenade Radio,
I was very ,very sad to hear of The Great Jack Jones passing , what a great loss
Such a fabulous singer with a terrific vocal range,
I followed Jacks success throughout the 1960s as a young man in my teen years he now must be the last of the great American Songbook artists.
Thanks Jack for all the wonderful songs throughout your career.
RIP Jack👏🎤
Tom on 24 October 2024
Where else can I hear Stan Kenton,Edie Gorme, and Roger Whitaker..all in the same hour? No where but Seranade Radio. Great job Dick Fisher!
Dick Fisher on 24 October 2024
You’re absolutely right Tom! And while I’m saddened by the loss of another great music stylist, I’m really glad that I decided earlier this year to play more of the music of Jack Jones in my shows.
Chris Knowles on 24 October 2024
Thank you for playing ‘As you desire me’ just now. Only the second time I’ve heard this on Serenade.
Nick Hingley on 24 October 2024
Really enjoyed MWYW yesterday with Don Lusher’s Big Band. Fabulous.
Great to have daily Music While You Work after all these years. When it was on the Light it was Music While You Are At School. Now it’s Music While I Potter About Doing The Washing Up/Vacuuming/Odd Jobs. (Still work I suppose!)
Sam on 23 October 2024
Wow never heard Easy Come Easy Go by Jo Stafford before. And I’m a big fan. What a lovely melody 💜 I’ll be on the hunt for that album! Bravo Dick Fisher
Steve in Worcs. on 24 October 2024
Hello Sam, Jo Stafford had such a wonderful voice, didn’t she? A favourite of mine for decades now, and thank Heavens for this terrific station, that plays her songs regularly. Kevin Taylor, who presents from Palm Springs, CA, on Saturday and Sunday evenings, met her a few times. 😎
Dick Fisher on 24 October 2024
When scouring the library for interesting songs and arrangements, I know that Jo Stafford hardly ever disappoints. Easy come, easy go was a new one to me but delighted to discover I am not alone!
Sam on 23 October 2024
Dick Fisher – love that you played a cut from Victory at Sea just now. Originally I think by Robert Russell Bennet and NBC orchestra. Fabulous and dramatic on the high seas – Keep up the great and amazing show! From Cape Cod MA – USA
Nancy on 22 October 2024
Love it. The Music a little before my time but I have always liked to listen to it and tried to find stations that played it. Can you get it to play in the background?
Randall Riley on 20 October 2024
Have really been enjoying hearing Connee Boswell and the Boswell Sisters tracks being played lately. Fabulous singers who are all to often forgotten. Thanks Serenade!
Susan Hesselgesser on 19 October 2024
Cafe Continental was great. !!!
David Small on 19 October 2024
Thank you to Peter Tomlinson and Neil Anthony for a lovely programme those academy award years loved it and looking forward to the rest of the series
Peter Tomlinson on 27 October 2024
Thank you for your comment. It was my idea but Neil has made it come alive!
Matthew on 18 October 2024
Can I say that Chris Helme’s Bandstand prog on a Friday night is one of the many highlights of this station. Great variety of tracks from classical to operetta to Michael Buble covers, all in harmonious Brass. Thank you Serenade Radio, and Mr Helme.
Dave Hilton on 18 October 2024
Thanks for ‘3 wheels on my wagon’. When serving in Germany in the late 60s, driving a mini from RAF Wildenrath to HQ Rhheindahlen a back wheel came off and went trundling down the road. Guess which song was sung to me on return to unit? Thanks for a great programme each morning.
Nick Hingley on 17 October 2024
Just a note to say I’m enjoying the current season of Hot Pipes, and also Bandstand. Makes me think of Nigel Ogden and Frank Renton. Great variety on Serenade unavailable anywhere else.
Chris Helme on 18 October 2024
Hello Nick…Thank you for your kinds words about my show, over the years I have met Frank Renton a couple of times and emailed more often as well as seeing him action with the baton. If you have a favourite please let me know I as always I would be pleased to play it for you.
Chris – Friday Night Bandstand
Brian Bunn on 17 October 2024
Thank you so much for Serenade Radio, Andy. Your morning shows are brilliant 🤩 I’m just discovering easy listening from the 40’s, 50’s & 60’s, where do you find all those gems ? ! The retro instrumental progs are awesome, with “Music While You Work”, “Sing Something Simple” & “Bandstand” my favourites 😊
So refreshing from the boring “Greatest Hits” played to death and boring talking on National & Commercial Radio. Please keep the format the same, it is so appreciated 👍
Chris Helme on 18 October 2024
Hello Brian… I am pleased to read that you enjoy my Bandstand show. I choose the music very carefully to try and introduced a wide variety of music to the audience. I treat every show as if it was a stage concert, I do public speaking and know the importance of keeping the audience engaged with both the quality of music and the researched words for introductions. The show is always open for requests.
Chris – Friday Night Bandstand
Barbara Heathcote on 15 October 2024
Hi Andy, I was singing the Hippopotamus song yesterday but didn’t get any pointless words.
Can I request you play Vic Damone’s version of All the Things You Are please. To me it’s the best, such a beautiful version. Thank you
Bernadette on 14 October 2024
You were asking – Looks as though ‘Necessity’ was a song from Finian’s Rainbow.
Nick Hingley on 13 October 2024
Johnny Beerling on now. I was getting worried about Soft Folkus because there’s no repeat.
Not to worry, these things happen but, fortunately, not very often. Those of us of a certain age have learned to accept the occasional break in transmission – usually due to a Force 9 in the North Sea…
Susan Hesselgesser on 13 October 2024
I love Sundays and Mark at 11:30 CST . What happened today ?? And part of his show Saturday was missing too.
Andy Marriott on 13 October 2024
Please see the answer to Liz’s similar comment below.
Chris Knowles on 13 October 2024
The last half hour-5.30 to 6pm was wonderful. More of this please!
Andy Marriott on 13 October 2024
Have a listen to Musicbox every weekday at Midday and Midnight, also Dinner at 8 Saturday at 8pm…
Chris Knowles on 16 October 2024
Musicbox can only be improvec by making it longer! Well done, Simon.
Liz Burns on 13 October 2024
Steyn’s song of the week is not being broadcast. Same thing happened to the first fifteen minutes of On the Town Saturday show.
Disappointed .
Edgar on 13 October 2024
I wish I had known it would come on eventually. I went to something else and came back at 1 hoping it was on an hour later. I saw “On the Town” under last songs played. Today while the music is good, it’s not “Song of the Week”. Normally it is repeated at 4 Eastern though a couple of weeks ago when I had to miss it, it wasn’t.
Andy Marriott on 13 October 2024
Hi Liz, As you probably guessed we are having some technical problems at the moment.
We run the station on a shoestring which means very little in the way of backup equipment.
It’s frustrating for us too. Sorry. Song of the week can be heard on Thursday at 9pm UK time.
Edgar on 17 October 2024
And that just happened to be when my Internet went out. I know it was sort of working because the “last song played” was Steyn’s Song of the Week but I didn’t hear anything. Other sites weren’t working. The modem took a while to light up the right lights and by 8 minutes after, success. I don’t know if this was a problem that could have been solved earlier but I just did get home in time.
Tony James on 13 October 2024
To Steve James.
As usual, locked on for my weekly Sunday Breakfast Show of choice.
Please could you give me the title of the Vernons Girls track you played just after 7.30?
Best, Tony James
Steve James on 13 October 2024
Hi Tony, thanks for listening. The Vernons Girls’ track was ‘Be Nice To Him Mama’