Yes We Can Can!

01/20/2009

If you watched the inauguration of President Barack Obama today, you undoubtedly heard a lovely song that was arranged by the iconic composer of great American movie scores. John Williams, best known for Oscar-winning music from films such as "Jaws," "Star Wars," "Superman" and "Indiana Jones," created the new piece to commemorate this historic day.

His classical quartet, "Air and Simple Gifts," was performed by Venezuelan-American Gabriela Montero on piano, Chinese-American Yo-Yo Ma on cello, Israeli-American Itzhak Perlman on violin and African-American Anthony McGill on clarinet. Indeed, it is a joyous, hopeful and patriotic song, just as you'd expect. But I have another tune on my mind today--one that, as the kids on "American Bandstand" used to say, "has a nice beat and you can dance to it!"

The optimistic, socially-conscious anthem "Yes We Can Can" became a smash hit for the Pointer Sisters when their self-titled album debuted in 1973. Today it's considered a funk classic.

On this Day of Days, have a listen and GET YOUR FUNK ON!

7:01PM

Comments

Suzy Says:

I have no time to get my funk on, I'm too busy watching my portfolio do down the toilet.

Jan 20, 2009 7:28:36 PM

Surcie Says:

I feel ya, Suz. More than I want admit.

Jan 20, 2009 7:58:34 PM

Cheryl Says:

Hey, it's all good. I lost my 3+ years worth of freelance in December and my husband just today experienced his last day of official gainful employ (after nearly 15 years) at Circuit City.

A little Don Cornelius hosted funk ALWAYS works like a balm.

Sure, I've confessed my wanton conservatism in the past, but hell's bells, we all need to have hope. :) Here's hoping for an upswing in the next four years. While I don't expect a president to make things better (that's our job as individuals) he sure can help us feel more upbeat, and today I do. This former McCainiac refuses to be downtrodden! Yes, we can can.

Jan 20, 2009 9:26:09 PM

debbie Says:

I love the Pointer Sisters. What fun. And I loved Simple Gifts yesterday. That was amazing.

Jan 21, 2009 6:44:45 PM

surcie Says:

Hi, Debbie! I wasn't able to leave a comment on your blog. But thanks for stopping by mine!

Jan 21, 2009 9:44:47 PM

Tanya (aka NetChick) Says:

Thanks! I got my "classic funk" on... :D

Hope I can lure you over to the MEET n' GREET going this (and every) weekend on my blog, after taking over from Michele! It'd be great to have you a part of the fun!

http://netchick.net

Jan 23, 2009 6:05:25 PM

david, tree house man Says:

I LOVED the quartet, (I am biased since my daughter plays violin and viola)
the joy demonstrated by the musicians was terrific.
Thank you for your visit.

Jan 23, 2009 9:47:53 PM

Char Says:

You can't go wrong with classic funk at all.

Tanya sent me :)

Jan 23, 2009 10:29:10 PM

rashbre Says:

Thank you for reminding me of that song. I believe have the vinyl of it somewhere. Must find.

Jan 24, 2009 10:46:24 AM

mo Says:

Just the Afros and clothes alone in this clip make me smile. Thanks for the funky uplift, Ms. Surcie.

Jan 26, 2009 3:00:46 PM

Yes We Can Can!

01/20/2009

Comments

Suzy Says:

Surcie Says:

Cheryl Says:

debbie Says:

surcie Says:

Tanya (aka NetChick) Says:

david, tree house man Says:

Char Says:

rashbre Says:

mo Says:

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