Last show we covered the stratification of popular music, with two distinctly different orbits.

On one hand, we had the major record labels trying to homogenize American culture by sanitizing releases to meet preconceived ‘quality’ standards. On the other hand, we had smaller, regional independent labels doing pretty much whatever they wanted.

Artistically, the situation was untenable and this show covers the period of time where the two worlds are about to collide with another. The majors jealously protected their market share, but the smaller labels were gaining ground and winning over a new, younger audience.

Featured songs include:

Lawdy Miss Clawdy – Lloyd Price

That’s Amore – Dean Martin

Secret Love – Doris Day

Don’t Let the Stars Get In Your Eyes – Perry Como

Rags to Riches – Tony Bennett

Your Cheatin’ Heart – Hank Williams

The Clock – Johnny Ace

Mama He Treats Your Daughter Mean – Ruth Brown

Mess Around – Ray Charles

Sh-Boom – The Chords

Sh-Boom – The Crew Cuts