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Fifty Years Of The Ronettes’ ‘Be My Baby’
In August 1963, Brian Wilson had to pull off the road because the song coming from his car radio overpowered his ability to drive. The same thing happened to America. That month, the sounds of musical and social change manifested in the form of four beats, four syllables, and four unmistakable “whoa, oh, oh, ohs.” The arrival of “Be My Baby” by the Ronettes was so vivid the song became instantly synonymous with the term “Wall of Sound.”
This history of “Be My Baby” is written in three chapters: rock pioneer Hal Blaine was Phil Spector’s Wrecking Crew drummer responsible for the incendiary drum introduction. Twenty-five years later, Eddie Money revitalized the song and restored Ronnie Spector’s career with “Take Me Home Tonight.” And finally, the inimitable, Ronnie Spector: the vocalist who will be waiting for us, ‘til eternity.
Read more about “Be My Baby” at K-EARTH 101 FM.
1963: ‘Not Too Young To Get Married’ Track Recorded
1963: The track for “Not Too Young To Get Married” is recorded, soon to be released with vocals by Bob. B Soxx & the Blue Jeans.
1965: The Ronettes Release ‘Is This What I Get For Loving You’
In April 1965, The Ronettes release “Is This What I Get For Loving You,” one of the most powerful productions released by the group during the 1960s. The percussion breaks behind Ronnie Spector’s vocal are especially intense. This record was cut between massive productions for The Righteous Brothers and building toward the following years’ signature breakthroughs by Phil Spector for Ike & Tina Turner.
1961: Phil Spector Produces Arlene Smith Solo Record
In April 1961, Phil Spector produces a solo record Arlene Smith, lead singer of The Chantels, who had one of the very first rock ‘n’ roll era Girl Group hits in 1957, “Maybe.” Arlene sings “Love, Love, Love” and the Gerry Goffin/Carol King number “He Knows I Love Him Too Much” on this hard-to-find disc.