WELK MUSICAL FAMILY

Memories of Nat King Cole

2012-01-30T20:20:00.000-05:00

This week's Welk episode is best described as Unforgetable.

In case you guessed it by now, it's a salute to the iconic singer Nat King Cole!

Highlights from this episode include....

.....Tanya singing whenever there's a full moon

.....pondering of if there's musical discounts from Geico

.....and Dick Dale gets romantic with Gail Farrell.

MEMORIES OF NAT KING COLE - October 6, 1973

1. L-O-V-E - Ralna, Mary Lou, Gail, Sandi, Anacani, Tanya, Guy, Ken, Arthur, Larry, Joe and Jimmy
2. NATURE BOY - danced by Cissy King and Bobby Burgess
3. AUTUMN LEAVES - Norma Zimmer
4. DANCE, BALLERINA, DANCE - the orchestra
5. ANSWER ME MY LOVE - Guy Hovis and Ralna English

6. WITH A LITTLE BIT OF LUCK - Myron Floren on accordion with Bobby and Cissy dancing
7. PAPER MOON - Tanya Falan
8. MONA LISA - Ken Delo with Bob Smale at the piano
9. ROUTE 66 - Dick Dale, Kenny Trimble and Charlie Parlato with dancing by Bobby Burgess, Arthur Duncan and Jack Imel
10. VAYA CON DIOS - Anacani

11. SMILE - Jimmy Roberts
12. PRETEND - the orchestra
13. RAMBLIN' ROSE - Clay Hart and his guitar
14. WALKIN' MY BABY BACK HOME - Dick Dale and Gail Farrell
15. STRAIGHTEN UP AND FLY RIGHT - Arthur Duncan tap dancing

16. TOO YOUNG - Sandi Griffiths with Tanya, Anacani, Ralna, Norma, Mary Lou and Gail
17. SWEET LORRAINE - Henry Cuesta on clarinet with Bob Havens on trombone and the rhythm section
18. NON DIMENTICAR - Joe Feeney with Bob Ralston at the Thomas Organ
19. LAZY, HAZY, CRAZY DAYS OF SUMMER - Larry Hooper with Mary Lou, Arthur, Norma, Jimmy, Sandi, Tanya, Dick, Anacani, Guy, Ralna, Bobby, Cissy, Ken and Gail

A fine and fitting tribute to one of the world's best singers, who we lost way too soon....

One thing is for sure, and we can all take comfort in this. Like Lawrence Welk, the legacy of Nat King Cole lives on with his recordings and tapes of his television appearances, ensuring that younger generations can enjoy what music is really all about.

So until next time, keep a song in your heart and always remember to straighten up and fly right!

200 Years of American Music - Part One

2012-01-22T20:09:00.000-05:00

It's the mother of all Bicentennial Parties on the Welk Show!

Throughout the year of 1976, America celebrated her 200th birthday with songs, parties and fireworks whether it was on television or with friends, family and perfect strangers.

And the gang on the Lawrence Welk Show took part in the star spangled, red and white blue celebrations.

Highlights from the show include.....

.....festivities from the Donner Party square dance

Cissy and Bobby jumping for joy....

.....and all is quiet on Western Front.

200 YEARS OF AMERICAN MUSIC - January 17, 1976

1. YANKEE DOODLE DANDY - the orchestra
2. HAIL COLUMBIA! - Gail, Ken, Tanya, Tom, Mary Lou, Bobby, Cissy, Jimmy and Anacani
3. THERE'S NO PLACE LIKE HOME - Guy Hovis & Ralna English
4. DIXIE - the orchestra
5. AFTER YOU'VE GONE - Tanya Falan with Arthur Duncan tap dancing

6. SKIP TO MY LOU - Myron Floren on accordion with Anacani, Cissy, Mary Lou, Bobby, Ken and Jack dancing
7. OH SHENANDOAH - Dick Dale and Ava Barber
8. THERE WILL BE A HOT TIME IN THE OLD TOWN TONIGHT - Bobby Burgess and Cissy King dancing
9. MEDLEY OF STEPHEN FOSTER SONGS
   a) OH SUSANNA - Joe, Gail, Larry, Anacani, Ken, Mary Lou, Guy, Ralna, Tom and Ava
   b) OLD FOLKS AT HOME - The Semonski Sisters
   c) BEAUTIFUL DREAMER - Charlotte Harris at the cello
   d) CAMPTOWN RACES - the orchestra
   e) OH SUSANNA REPRISE - Joe, Gail, Larry, Anacani, Ken, Mary Lou, Guy, Ralna, Tom and Ava
10. WILL YOU REMEMBER (SWEETHEART)? - Norma Zimmer and Jimmy Roberts

11. THE STARS AND STRIPES FOREVER - the orchestra
12. THERE'S A LONG LONG TRAIL - Tom Netherton with Sandi Griffiths, Gail Farrell and Mary Lou Metzger
13. YO TE AMO, YO TE ADORO - Anacani
14. MEDLEY OF GEORGE M. COHAN SONGS
   a) YOU'RE A GRAND OLD FLAG - Arthur, Gail, Jimmy, Tanya, Tom, Mary Lou, Cissy, Bobby,
   Ralna, Guy, Norma, Ken
     b) MARY'S A GRAND OLD NAME - Joe Feeney
     c) YANKEE DOODLE DANDY - Ken Delo with Jimmy, Bobby, Tom, Guy and Arthur
     d) GIVE MY REGARDS TO BROADWAY - Arthur, Gail, Jimmy, Tanya, Tom, Mary Lou, Cissy,
         Bobby, Ralna, Guy, Norma, Ken
15. THE ST. LOUIS BLUES - Henry Cuesta on clarinet with Bob Smale on piano
16. THE BATTLE HYMN OF THE REPUBLIC - Cissy, Gail, Ava, Norma, Mary Lou, Tanya, Ralna, Anacani, Joe, Bobby, Ken, Larry, Tom, Guy, Jimmy, Arthur

I would say that the Musical Family captured the spirit of the Bicentennial very well.

Also, as the Maestro mentioned at the beginning of the show, a double album of songs aptly titled Lawrence Welk Singers & Orchestra Presents 200 Years of American Music can be heard in the comforts of your own home. Just go to ebay, Amazon or your local vintage record store to bring home your little piece of patriotic music.

Until next time, keep a song in your heart and God Bless America!

A vote for SOPA and PIPA is a vote for censorship

2012-01-18T23:19:00.000-05:00

The internet is one of the last bastions where creativity and originality exists in this world.

But if Congress has their way, SOPA the Stop Online Piracy Act and PIPA the Protect IP Act would put a stop to it, under the guise of combating online piracy.

I'm all for stopping piracy and protecting intellectual property, but this pile-of-crap legislation reeks more about heavy-handed censorship and big government intrusion. If this legislation is successful, webmasters and bloggers like myself would be silenced.

And that alone would cast a cloudy and uncertain future for Welk Musical Family.com

Contact your Senators and Representative and tell them NO to internet censorship and YES to creative freedom!

Mary Lou Metzger on Dale Radio

2012-01-04T20:10:00.001-05:00

The Hammer Museum in Los Angeles on Thursday, January 19th is THE place to be....

Mary Lou Metzger will be on Dale Radio.

And there will be live music by the UCLA Jazz Ensemble, plus much much more!

If you're not anywhere near Los Angeles, don't worry.....Dale Radio is a popular radio podcast. All you need is be near a computer and it's like you're there.

And if you are going to attend in person, attendance is free.

You can't beat that!

New Years Eve '70

2012-01-01T16:45:00.000-05:00

Happy New Year everyone!

A new calendar year brings forth new promises, new hopes and memories which is what the Musical Family demonstrates in this week's episode.

And here are some of the highlights!

Ken Delo is a sucker for a pretty face like Mary Lou....

Richard Maloof receives some shocking news.....

.....and the NCAA investigates more allegations against Ohio State.

NEW YEARS EVE - December 26, 1970

1. THIS COULD BE THE START OF SOMETHING BIG - Gail, Cissy, Mary Lou, Bobby, Joe, Arthur, Norma, Ralna, Sandi, Sally, Guy and Jimmy
2. MAY YOU ALWAYS - Tanya Falan
3. OH HOW MY HEART BEATS - Myron Floren on accordion with Richard Maloof on tuba and assisted by Gail Farrell and Mary Lou Metzger on coconuts
4. ROSES AND LOLLIPOPS - Ken Delo

5. THE EARLY DAYS OF THE DANCE/LAND OF A THOUSAND DANCES - danced by Bobby Burgess and Cissy King
6. THIS GUY'S IN LOVE WITH YOU - Guy Hovis and Ralna English
7. GAMES PEOPLE PLAY - Clay Hart with Buddy Merrill and Neil Levang on guitar and Richard Maloof on bass
8. I COULD HAVE DANCED ALL NIGHT - Norma Zimmer
9. SWING OUT - Johnny Zell on trumpet, Peanuts Hucko on clarinet and Bob Havens on trombone

10. THE MUSIC GOES ROUND AND ROUND - Sandi Griffiths and Sally Flynn with Richard Maloof on tuba
11. YOUR EYES HAVE TOLD ME SO - Joe Feeney with Bob Ralston on piano
12. CUMANA - Bob Ralston on piano
13. BEFORE THE PARADE PASSES BY - Sandi, Dick, Sally, Bobby, Ken, Tanya, Joe, Myron, Charlotte Harris, Curt Ramsey, Ralna, Guy, Gail, Cissy, Mary Lou and Arthur
14. EVERYTHING'S COMING UP ROSES - danced by Arthur Duncan

15. BEAUTIFUL OHIO - Norma Zimmer and Jimmy Roberts
16. DOWN BY THE OHIO - Bob Lido and the Hotsy Totsy Boys featuring Jack Imel on drums, Charlie Parlato on trumpet, Russ Klein on piccolo sax, Bob Havens on trombone, Bob Ralston on piano and Richard Maloof on bass
17. MOONLIGHT AND ROSES - the orchestra
18. LETS START THE NEW YEAR RIGHT - Gail Farrell and Dick Dale with Cissy, Bobby, Arthur, Norma, Jimmy, Sally, Myron, Sandi, Tanya, Joe, Ralna, Guy, Charlotte, Mary Lou and Ken along with Johnny Zell on trumpet, Peanuts Hucko on clarinet and Bob Havens on trombone

During the show, I noticed the recurring theme other than New Year's Eve was the Tournament of Roses parade and the Rose Bowl.

Here's the Maestro talking with the reigning queen of the Rose Parade.

And during the parade number, we see that half the Music Makers waving Ohio State pennants and the other half Stanford pennants.

These were the two schools that were scheduled to play in that year's Rose Bowl.

And if you're a sports fan, Stanford won that game 27-17. The game's Most Valuable Player? It was quarterback Jim Plunkett who would go on to win two Super Bowls in a sixteen year career in the pros.

So until next time, keep a song in your heart and remember where the music comes out after it goes round and round.

Ringing the old year out....bringing the new year in

2011-12-31T20:41:00.000-05:00

And now, here's the ladies with a very special message....

Christmas '66

2011-12-27T21:14:00.000-05:00

Hope your holidays was wunnerful, wunnerful like mine! Especially when the Welk episode du jour was the Christmas episode from 1966.

Highlights from the show include......

Bobby and Barbara get treated like a bunch of rag dolls.

Little Chris Feeney playing Stairway To Heaven on the accordion......

......and Lawrence getting all the little kids to sing.

CHRISTMAS SHOW - December 24, 1966

1. JINGLE BELLS - Dick, Bob, Myron, Peggy, Norma, Jimmy, Lawrence, Jo Ann, Joe, Natalie and Larry
2. MARCH OF THE TOY SOLDIERS - Barbara, Janet, Kathy, Dee Dee, Bob, Bobby, Jack and Arthur
3. RAGTIME COWBOY JOE - Steven Clark with his father Buddy Clark on bass
4. WHITE CHRISTMAS - Norma Zimmer and Jimmy Roberts
5. DOLL DANCE - danced by Barbara Boylan and Bobby Burgess

6. STAR CAROL - Kathy, Peggy, Janet and Dee Dee Lennon
7. OVER THE RIVER - Mimi, Annie, Katie and Theresa Lennon
8. O HOLY NIGHT - Joe Feeney with Bob Ralston at the organ
9. JINGLE BELLS - Chris Feeney on the accordion
10. THE TWELVE DAYS OF CHRISTMAS - Joe Feeney's children

11. ALL I WANT FOR CHRISTMAS IS A PAIR OF SPOONS - Jack Imel and his children with Myron Floren on accordion
12. AVE MARIA - Natalie Nevins
13. RING THOSE CHRISTMAS BELLS - danced by Arthur Duncan
14. HIGH ON THE HOUSETOP - Larry Hooper
15. FROSTY THE SNOWMAN - Jo Ann Castle on piano

16. HARK! THE HERALD ANGELS SING/IT CAME UPON A MIDNIGHT CLEAR/JOY TO THE WORLD - Aladdin, Norma, Jimmy, Bobby, Barbara, Kathy, Dick Cathcart, Janet, Larry, Natalie, Bob Ralston, Bob Lido, Dee Dee, Arthur and Joe
17. YES VIRGINIA, THERE IS A SANTA CLAUS - recited by Aladdin Pallante
18. MERRY CHRISTMAS FROM OUR HOUSE TO YOUR HOUSE - Janet, Kathy, Dee Dee, Peggy, Mimi, Annie, Danny, Pay, Joey, Kippy and Billy Lennon
19. SILENT NIGHT - Norma Zimmer with Jo Ann, Dick, Natalie, Barbara, Steve Smith, Kathy, Greg Dixon, Janet, Bob Duncan, Peggy, Larry and Dee Dee
20. JINGLE BELLS - all the children plus Santa passes out the presents

It was nice seeing the Music Makers and their children celebrating the simple joys of Christmas, which tends to get lost in today's emphasis on the uber-hyper, in your face materialism that is so common.

1966 marked the final Welk Christmas show for Aladdin Pallante, who eventually retired from the show halfway in the new year after a heart attack. Although both Larry Hooper and Dick Dale played Santa exceptionally well, no one did it better than good ol' Aladdin.

And his spoken word recitations, such as "Yes Virginia, There is a Santa Claus", they were truly inspirational and well done.

Oh, and he was a terrific violinist as well.

Until next week, or in this case next year as 2011 comes to a close, keep a song in your heart and take it easy on the egg nog. A little Christmas cheer can go a long way!

Merry Christmas everybody!

2011-12-24T23:42:00.000-05:00

Santa has brought goodies for all the good little boys and girls!

A Welk Christmas from 1981

2011-12-16T20:58:00.000-05:00

Thirty years ago, the last annual Christmas show (with the exception of specials afterward) of the series aired.

Here's a look back that should bring some holiday cheer and memories.

Keep a song in your heart, and be good little boys and girls 'cause Santa knows!

Same Song, Separate Voices; made for television version

2011-12-07T14:12:00.000-05:00

I finally got to watch the Lennon Sisters pledge special last Sunday, let me just say I was not disappointed at one bit.

As you well know, the title of the special comes from the Lennon's best selling autobiography of the same name. It's a retrospective of their career in showbiz starting from their Christmas Eve debut on the Welk show to today.

And along the way, they made plenty of fans and friends, some whom are interviewed on this special.

Famous folk like Kathie Lee Gifford.....

.....and Andy Williams to name a few.

But the stars of the show are the Lennon Sisters themselves.

This special covers all the goods, not just from the time as members of the Musical Family, but when they worked with other showbiz heavyweights like Perry Como, Johnny Carson, Jimmy Durante and of course, Moon River Boy himself......

....plus all the trials, tribulations, tragedy and the joy of discovering Branson are covered too. If your public television station is carrying the special during it's pledge drive, make a date to watch it, or tape it, or do both.

It's just like reading the book, only it has moving pictures!

Can't believe it's December already

2011-12-02T19:16:00.000-05:00

Seems like yesterday the calendar flipped to January and 2011 began....

Where did the time go?

I did find out that the new Lennon Sisters special will air on WBGU this Sunday at 6pm, talk about an early Christmas present.

Let the mayhem that is the holidays (Christmas, New Years, etc) began!

Thanksgiving '81

2011-11-20T21:34:00.000-05:00

It's time to give thanks this week!

For family, freedom, the food we eat, and this weekend's Lawrence Welk episode which is the Thanksgiving show from 1981.

Here are the highlights,

Elaine kicks Bobby in the schnozz.....

Charlie Parlato discovers that girls dig trumbetta players.....

.....and Lawrence gets served.

THANKSGIVING - November 21, 1981

1. THERE'S NO PLACE LIKE HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS - Ron, Michael, Ken, Bobby, Gail, Anacani, Elaine, Mary Lou, Roger, Sherry, Jim, Ava, Jimmy, David, Sheila, Arthur, Joe and Kathie
2. A HOUSE WITH LOVE IN IT - Guy Hovis and Ralna English
3. ON MOONLIGHT BAY - the orchestra
4. PUT YOUR HAND IN THE HAND - Anacani
5. TURKEY IN THE STRAW - danced by Bobby Burgess and Elaine Balden

6. WHOLE LOTTA THINGS TO SING ABOUT - Sheila & Sherry Aldridge and David & Roger Otwell
7. LOVE LIFTED ME - Henry Cuesta on clarinet
8. BY AND BY & IN THE SWEET BY AND BY - Gail Farrell, Ron Anderson and Michael Redman
9. A HOLIDAY FOR STRINGS - the orchestra conducted by George Cates
10. SEVENTY SIX TROMBONES - the orchestra

11. BE THANKFUL - Joe Feeney with backing vocals by Ava, Kathie, Sherry, Gail, Ralna, Mary Lou, Anacani, Sheila, David, Roger, Jim, Guy, Michael, Ron and Jimmy
12. BACK IN YOUR OWN BACKYARD - sung and danced by Arthur Duncan and Ken Delo
13. SINGING HYMNS IN THE EVENING (BY THE FIREPLACE) - Kathie Sullivan with Bob Ralston at the Hammond organ
14. WHAT IS THIS THING CALLED LOVE - the orchestra

15. YOU'RE THE REASON GOD MADE OKLAHOMA - Ava Barber and Jim Turner
16. BABY FACE - Bob Lido with Gail Farrell, Sheila Aldridge, Sherry Aldridge featuring Bob Havens on trombone, Russ Klein on saxophone, Charlie Parlato on trumbetta and Jack Imel on drums and musical spoons
17. THE SKATERS WALTZ - Myron Floren on accordion with Lawrence and Mary Lou Metzger dancing
18. WE GATHER TOGETHER - Ralna English with vocal backing from the cast

It's true, we all have plenty to be thankful for. Friends, Family and Good Health.

Until next time, keep a song in your heart and may your Thanksgiving turkey be plump, juicy and delicious!

Salute to Fred Astaire

2011-11-13T22:24:00.000-05:00

Time to put on your top hat and tails along with your dancing shoes because this week, the Champagne Music makers pay tribute to Fred Astaire!

Here's some of the highlights from the show.....

Gail and Ava team up while wearing dresses combining Ol' Bavaria and Big City Sophistication....

Jack Imel plays with his marimbas....

......and George Cates plays with his baton.

SALUTE TO FRED ASTAIRE - September 27, 1980

1. IT'S S'WONDERFUL - Sheila, Sherry, Anacani, Gail, Kathie, Ava, Curt (Ramsey), Jimmy (Roberts), Ken, Jim, David, Roger, Joe
2. THE CARIOCA - danced by Bobby Burgess and Elaine Balden
3. A FINE ROMANCE - Guy Hovis
4. FLYING DOWN TO RIO - Anacani
5. I GUESS I'LL HAVE TO CHANGE MY PLAN - the orchestra

6. SMOKE GETS IN YOUR EYES - Tom Netherton with Bob Ralston at piano
7. I LOVE A PIANO - Ava Barber and Gail Farrell also on piano
8. LIMEHOUSE BLUES - Jack Imel and his marimbas
9. THE WAY YOU LOOK TONIGHT - Jim Turner and his guitar
10. SOMETHING'S GOTTA GIVE - the orchestra

11. DANCING IN THE DARK - the orchestra conducted by George Cates
12. HOW ARE THINGS IN GLOCCA MORRA? - Joe Feeney with Bob Ralston on Hammond Organ
13. BLUE SKIES - Bob Havens on trombone and Arthur Duncan dancing
14. THREE LITTLE WORDS - Sheila and Sherry Aldridge with David and Roger Otwell

15. I GOT MY LOVE TO KEEP ME WARM - the orchestra
16. YOU AND THE NIGHT AND THE MUSIC - Kathie Sullivan with Myron Floren on accordion
17. CHEEK TO CHEEK - Ken Delo
18. I LOVE LOUISA - Myron Floren on accordion with Ava, Kathie, Gail, Sherry, Anacani, Sheila, Joe, Roger, David, Jim, Guy and Jimmy along with Bobby and Elaine dancing

PROGRAMMING NOTE: Both Ralna English and Mary Lou Metzger do not appear in this episode.

I knew that around the time of taping (mid-1980) that Ralna's absence was attributed to personal issues going through, but I was surprised that Mary Lou also didn't appear. This is one of the very rare occasions during her tenure that happened.

Still, this week's episode was a fun, pleasant and fitting salute to one of Hollywood's greatest song-and-dance men like Fred Astaire. They just don't have talent and class today like they did back then.

Until next time, keep a song in your heart and may the days of your lives be s'wonderful!

Same Song, Separate Voices

2011-11-10T20:21:00.000-05:00

There's a brand new pledge special coming to PBS on November 26th....

And in the spotlight, the Lennon Sisters!

Which in my opinion about flippin' time....

Promo - Lennon Sisters: Same Song, Separate Voices from Polly O. Entertainment on Vimeo.

You're Never Too Young

2011-11-06T21:37:00.000-05:00

As we approach the autumn of this year, and our years....Lawrence and his Music Makers remind us in this week's episode that you're never too young.

Actually, it's the title of his 1981 bestselling book, co-written with Bernice McGeehan, but it is still great advice to live by!

Highlights from this week's episode include.....

Mary Lou catching up on her reading....

Kathie and Ken catching up on old times.....

and David, Guy, Roger and Jim sing a particular Oak Ridge Boys diddy.....

.....about this gal.

YOU'RE NEVER TOO YOUNG - December 5, 1981

1. YOU MAKE ME FEEL SO YOUNG - Bobby, Elaine, Guy, Ralna, Gail, Ron, David, Sheila, Ava, Sherry, Roger, Kathie, Joe, Anacani, Norma, Jimmy (Roberts), Mary Lou, Jim, Ken & Michael
2. YOUNG AT HEART - Tom Netherton
3. ISN'T IT ROMANTIC - The orchestra
4. CINCO ROBLES - Anacani
5. MAGGIE BLUES - Bob Havens on trombone

6. YOUNGER THAN SPRINGTIME - Joe Feeney with Bob Ralston on the Hammond organ
7. PUT A LITTLE LOVE IN YOUR HEART - Sheila & Sherry Aldridge with David & Roger Otwell
8. PICK YOURSELF UP - Jack Imel and Mary Lou Metzger
9. MEDLEY OF SONGS FROM SNOW WHITE - The orchestra conducted by George Cates
10. SING SING SING - Paul Humphrey and Jack Imel on drums with Arthur Duncan dancing

11. MEMORIES - Norma Zimmer
12. WITH A LITTLE HELP FROM MY FRIENDS - Gail Farrell, Ron Anderson and Michael Redman
13. YOU NEEDED ME - Guy Hovis and Ralna English
14. I COULD HAVE DANCED ALL NIGHT - danced by Bobby Burgess and Elaine Balden

15. TRY A LITTLE KINDNESS - Ava Barber
16. ELVIRA - Jim Turner with David Otwell, Guy Hovis and Roger Otwell
17. KIDS - Kathie Sullivan and Ken Delo
18. ROLL OUT THE BARREL - Lawrence, Myron Floren & Joey Schmidt on accordion featuring Bobby, Elaine, Sheila, Sherry, Gail, Mary Lou, Jimmy, Ron, Michael and Joe

Until next week, remember to keep a song in your heart and always try to get by.....with a little help from your friends!

Come taste the wine with Gail and Ron!

2011-11-04T12:30:00.001-04:00

If you're a Welk fan and you live anywhere near the California town of Martinez, this is right up your alley!

Gail Farrell and Ron Anderson will be at the town's Fall Wine Stroll this Saturday. They will be signing autographs and chatting with fans over at the Old Town Clock Repair.

More details can be found at the following article from the Martinez Town Gazette.

Happy Halloween!

2011-10-31T19:41:00.002-04:00

Just be safe when you are out trick or treating!

Can't Touch This

2011-10-25T20:12:00.000-04:00

Check out the MC Hammer pants the Maestro is wearing!

Cissy and Bobby are, and they dig them!

Saturday Nights back in the day

2011-10-19T19:50:00.000-04:00

Today, television on Saturday nights is a vast wasteland, populated mostly by COPS and repeats of network shows aired earlier in the week.

But back in 1964, on the ABC network, Saturday nights means music with Lawrence Welk and The Hollywood Palace as this gem from You Tube demonstrates!

Salute to our Senior Citizens

2011-10-10T14:01:00.000-04:00

This week's episode, Lawrence and his Musical Family salutes the show's most loyal fans, the seniors.

Highlights from the show include.....

The Maestro gets mobbed by the ladies.....

Ken Delo takes the A Train.....

.....and Jack Imel enjoys a nice tall cold one.

SALUTE TO OUR SENIOR CITIZENS - March 21, 1981

1. DEARIE - Micheal, Sheila, Ron, Gail, Jimmy, Kathie, Ralna, Guy, Mary Lou, Ken, Sherry, Roger
2. DON'T LET THE GOOD LIFE PASS YOU BY - Ava Barber
3. SWEET AND LOVELY - the orchestra
4. WHEN YOU AND I WERE YOUNG MAGGIE - Guy Hovis & Ralna English
5. YOUNG AT HEART - the orchestra featuring Skeets Herfurt in saxophone

6. PRECIOUS MEMORIES - Sheila and Sherry Aldridge with David and Roger Otwell
7. I LOVE TO DANCE LIKE THEY USED TO DANCE - Ron Anderson, Ken Delo, Michael Redman with Bobby Burgess and Elaine Balden dancing
8. AS TIME GOES BY - Tom Netherton with Bob Ralston at the piano
9. YOU'RE AN OLD SMOOTHIE - the orchestra featuring Myron Floren on accordion with Lawrence doing a tag dance with the ladies
10. MEDLEY OF SONGS FROM ANNIE GET YOUR GUN - the orchestra with George Cates conducting

11. AMONG MY SOUVENIRS - Kathie Sullivan
12. WHEN I'M SIXTY-FOUR - Mary Lou Metzger and Jack Imel
13. LETS GO DANCE AGAIN - Ron Anderson, Gail Farrell and Michael Redman with Bob Smale at the piano
14. TRY TO REMEMBER - Jim Turner
15. NOBODY CARES ABOUT THE RAILROADS ANYMORE - Ken Delo with assist by Mary Lou Metzger and Arthur Duncan

16. EVERYTHING'S COMING UP ROSES - danced by Arthur Duncan
17. THE WALTZ OF THE BELLS - the orchestra with Richard Maloof on bass, Paul Humphrey on bells and danced by Lawrence and Mary Lou joined by Bobby and Elaine, Jack and Kathie and Micheal and Sheila

If you noticed that Anacani does not appear in this episode, at the time of taping she was being filmed for her part for the Luis Valdez movie Zoot Suit where she played a Pachuca vocalist.

Also, Jimmy Roberts does appear in this week's show, but strangely he does not have a solo number.

The next new episode won't be until November 5th so the next three weeks will be repeats, but as always until next time.....keep a song in your heart and take plenty of Geritol to feel stronger fast!

More Welk madness on SNL

2011-10-05T16:42:00.000-04:00

Junice has struck again.

Recently on Saturday Night Live, the show opened with yet another parody of Lawrence Welk and his Music Makers, this time featuring Melissa McCarthy, the star from the sitcom Mike and Molly.

Here, we have a fellow I assume is pretending to be Dick Dale joining the sisters from the Finger Lakes in a song about autumn.

Enjoy!

Meanwhile, down on the farm

2011-09-30T20:38:00.000-04:00

From the Down On The Farm episode which aired a few weeks back, here's Bob Lido and the Music Makers as they sing about the assortment of animals found on Old MacDonald's farm!

Ava Barber interview on WBIR

2011-09-21T22:33:00.002-04:00

Catching up with Ava Barber, on her life, career, etc courtesy of Knoxville's NBC affiliate WBIR.

Just click below on the link to watch the full interview!

CATCHING UP WITH AVA BARBER

Down On The Farm

2011-09-18T19:42:00.000-04:00

So, how are you going keep 'em down on the farm?

One thing for sure is have them watch this week's Welk episode!

Highlights include the following.....

Cissy and Bobby doing it for kicks.....

We get to watch for the first time the long lost pilot episode of Dancing With The Stars....

.....and Lawrence welcomes the Democratic National Committee to town.

DOWN ON THE FARM - February 17, 1973

1. HOW ARE YOU GONNA KEEP 'EM DOWN ON THE FARM? - Ken, Jack, Bobby, Mary Lou, Guy, Ralna, Gail, Joe, Buddy, Sandi and Dick
2. SUDDENLY THERE'S A VALLEY - Norma Zimmer
3. ROSE GARDEN - the orchestra featuring Bob Smale on piano, Henry Cuesta on clarinet, Neil Levang on guitar and Russ Klein on saxophone
4. COTTON FIELDS - Guy Hovis and Ralna English
5. HONEYCOMB - Sandi Griffiths, Gail Farrell and Mary Lou Metzger

6. PEACE IN THE VALLEY - Bob Ralston on the Thomas organ
7. GRAZING IN GREENER PASTURES - Clay Hart
8. RANCHO ALLEGRE - Anacani with Neil Levang on guitar and Johnny Klein on walnuts
9. TURKEY IN THE STRAW - danced by Cissy King and Bobby Burgess
10. OH WHAT A BEAUTIFUL MORNING - Joe Feeney with Myron Floren on accordion

11. THE SURREY WITH THE FRINGE ON TOP - Ken Delo
12. BY HECK - Henry Cuesta on clarinet
13. SOMEWHERE OVER THE RAINBOW - Tanya Falan
14. PUT YOUR LITTLE FOOT RIGHT HERE - danced by Lawrence, Cissy, Bobby, Mary Lou, Ken, Ralna, Guy, Gail, Dick and Norma
15. SHINE ON HARVEST MOON - Jimmy Roberts

16. IN THE SHADE OF THE OLD APPLE TREE - danced by Arthur Duncan
17. MOUNTAIN MUSIC - Bob Lido and his Hotsy Totsy Boys of Myron Floren on accordion, Richard Maloof on tuba, Charlie Parlato on piccolo trumpet, Russ Klein on soprano saxophone, Bob Havens on trombone, Johnny Klein on drums and Buddy Merrill on banjo and starring Bobby Burgess and Jack Imel as the donkey
18. OH SHENANDOAH - Dick Dale
19. OLD MacDONALD HAD A FARM - Bob Lido with Ralna English, Guy Hovis, Dick Dale, Gail Farrell and Mary Lou Metzger

As you can tell, life on the farm can bring the animal out of anyone....

Maybe that's one way of keep them down on the farm.

Oh well, until next time....keep a song in your heart and always watch your step when you're out in the pasture!

The Panhandle Rag

2011-09-15T22:19:00.000-04:00

For your listening pleasure, here's Buddy Merrill on his trusted Fender Stratocaster playing the Panhandle Rag with great backing as always from the orchestra!

The Makeover Guy hangs out with Tanya!

2011-09-13T07:25:00.000-04:00

Here's an update on what Tanya is up to these days, she gets a visit from the Makeover Guy and the two spend the day having fun in Los Angeles.

And it's all captured on moving pictures, and thanks to the wonder that is You Tube, we can join along as well!

Songs From The Movies

2011-09-12T14:39:00.000-04:00

Lights! Camera! Action!

This week, episode number two of the 2011-12 season salutes the songs from Hollywood movies.

Here are some of the highlights from the show.....

Homesteaders Charlie Parlato and Ava Barber, after a major horse buggy accident, contact AAA for roadside assistance.

Arthur Duncan takes one small step for man, and one giant step into a Moon Pie....

....and the Music Makers prepare for the remnants of Hurricane Irene.

SONGS FROM THE MOVIES - March 29, 1980

1. HOORAY FOR HOLLYWOOD (YOU OUGHTA BE IN PICTURES) - Arthur, Sandi, Jimmy, Ken, Gail, Kathie, Elaine, Mary Lou, Bobby, Tom, Ava, Sheila, Sherry, Jim, Curt, Roger and David
2. SOUTH AMERICA, TAKE IT AWAY - Anacani
3. NOCTURNE IN E FLAT - Bob Ralston on piano
4. SOMEWHERE MY LOVE - Guy Hovis and Ralna English
5. MY KIND OF TOWN (CHICAGO IS) - Ken Delo

6. NEVER ON SUNDAY - Myron Floren on accordion
7. TUMBLIN' TUMBLEWEEDS - Ava Barber with Charlie Parlato
8. THE GREEN LEAVES OF SUMMER - Jim Turner
9. THE STARS AND STRIPES FOREVER - The orchestra
10. GONE WITH THE WIND - Kathie, Sherry, Gail, Ralna, Sandi, Sheila, Mary Lou, David, Roger, Jim, Ken, Guy and the orchestra with George Cates conducting

11. JEAN - Tom Netherton
12. HAVA NAGILA - danced by Bobby Burgess and Elaine Balden
13. EVERYBODY'S TALKIN' - Sheila and Sherry Aldridge & David and Roger Otwell
14. OLD DEVIL MOON - danced by Arthur Duncan
15. THE WAY WE WERE - Kathie Sullivan with Joe Livoti on violin

16. BOOGIE WOOGIE BUGLE BOY - Gail Farrell, Sandi Griffiths & Mary Lou Metzger
17. MORE (THEME FROM MONDO CANE) - Jimmy Roberts
18. SINGING IN THE RAIN - Sheila, Sherry, Gail, Anacani, Sandi, Curt, Jim, Ken, Roger and David with dancing by Elaine, Bobby, Mary Lou and Jack.

I thought it was a fine episode, brings back memories of the movies when they were actually good.

That goes for the songs too....

Until next time, keep a song in your heart and stay away from those casting couches!

Six Degrees of Gail Farrell #8

2011-09-07T21:25:00.003-04:00

The time is right, and I know you're ready for it!

It's time for another edition of Six Degrees of Gail Farrell!

And today, we'll attempt to link Gail with famed attorney Clarence Darrow!

And here we go.....

1. CLARENCE DARROW defended John Scopes in the famous Tennessee vs. Scopes trail in 1925 which was coined the Scopes Monkey Trail by journalist H.L. MENCKEN.

2. MENCKEN was best friends with author F. SCOTT FITZGERALD who wrote the novel "The Great Gatsby"

3. FITZGERALD'S Gatsby was later made into a movie in 1974 that starred ROBERT REDFORD as Jay Gatsby

4. REDFORD later starred in "All The President's Men" in 1976 which also starred the character actor JACK WARDEN

5. WARDEN was a guest on THE TONIGHT SHOW with Johnny Carson, which bandleader Lawrence Welk at one point was also a guest.

6. And one of the stars on the Welk Show, none other than Gail Farrell!

Always keep a song in your heart and if you ever inherit the wind, make sure it is a cool breeze!

The episode that started it all, from July 2, 1955

2011-09-04T10:04:00.000-04:00

It's always wunnerful, wunnerful to start a whole new season of Welk shows.

Here's Mary Lou Metzger welcoming viewers for the 25th season broadcasting on public television.

But what's this? Through the magic of television, it's now black & white and Mary Lou looks like she's in Ozzie & Harriet's living room!

There's a reason for this, episode one for 2011-12 is the national debut episode of the series which originally aired July 2, 1955 on ABC.

As you can tell, the Musical Family were just kids back then.....

.....like Jimmy Roberts

.....Rocky Rockwell

....Buddy Merrill

...and Dick Dale just to name a few.

Little did anyone realize that Saturday night in July was the start of something special. The combination of music, singing, talent and dancing would make the Lawrence Welk Show an enduring television institution.

As I write this blog entry, four of the Music Makers appearing in this week's landmark episode are still with us. Dick Dale, Bill Page, Rocky Rockwell and Buddy Merrill.

To view the complete songlist from this week's episode, just go to THE DODGE DANCING PARTY on my webpage for that and more!

In the meantime, until next week....Goodnight Ladies, Farewell Gentleman and hope you had a happy time!

Anacani with Los Panchos

2011-08-25T08:32:00.000-04:00

Here's a rare treat for all you Anacani fans!

This gem from You Tube has the Maestro's favorite Mexican girl with the trio known as Los Panchos on Latin TV circa 1975 with the song Nosotros.

Call Me

2011-08-24T06:51:00.000-04:00

Back in the day before cell phones, smart phones, Bluetooth, Blackberry and all that high tech stuff, Americans used old fashioned landlines to make phone calls.

And to help them is the operator, many of whom are attractive young girls who can sing!

Like Tanya here....

While were on that subject, here's our lovely singing operator from Ma Bell with her cover of Chris Montez's hit song "Call Me".

The Champagne Five - Musical Family covers of Lynyrd Skynyrd

2011-08-21T09:13:00.000-04:00

Freebird!

Now is the time for a new version of the Champagne Five, one in which the South is gonna rise again.

This edition will combine Lawrence Welk and the legendary Southern Rock band Lynyrd Skynyrd.

And out of this, we bring you my choice of the top five Skynyrd songs I like to see covered by the Champagne Music Makers.

Sweet Home Alabama indeed.....

1. SWEET HOME ALABAMA - Sheila & Sherry Aldridge with Roger & David Otwell
2. WHAT'S YOUR NAME - Guy Hovis & Ralna English
3. FREEBIRD - Joe Feeney with Bob Ralston at the Thomas organ
4. THE BALLAD OF CURTIS LOEW - Ken Delo
5. MADE IN THE SHADE - Tanya Falan

Some Thursday rumblings

2011-08-11T14:37:00.001-04:00

Yeah I know, it's been a while since I lasted posted here, it's not easy trying to find new and fresh Welk related material.

That aside, here's some things I like to get off my chest.

I'm excited about the new season on PBS, it's very cool that the first episode of the season is the original premiere episode from July 2, 1955. Should be a real treat seeing some of your old favorites making their national television debut.

I also been hearing horror stories that many PBS affiliates have dropped the Welk show from their schedule due to cuts in the budget, like what has happened in Florida.

Because the Sunshine State's governor, Rick Scott, decided to veto $4.8 million to fund public broadcasting, Orlando's PBS affiliate WMFE is no more, selling the station to a religious broadcaster.

The good news is that WUCF is now the new PBS affiliate for the market. The bad news is, at least for now, they are not carrying the Lawrence Welk Show like WMFE did.

There's two things we all should learn from this.....

One. Rick Scott is a flippin' idiot and he'll suffer a painful defeat when he runs for re-election. (Hell has no fury than a Welk fan scorned)

Two. The importance of public television cannot be taken for granted.

Support your public broadcaster, whether they carry the Welk Show or not, it's one of the great cultural and educational treasures that our country has to offer.

All The Things You Are

2011-08-04T19:58:00.000-04:00

From 1978, here's George Cates doing what he does best, conducting the singers and the band with this particular Jerome Kern number.

If today is the First of August.....

2011-08-01T13:39:00.000-04:00

....it can only mean one thing.

Today is Sandi Griffiths' birthday!

Welk fashion of the 70s

2011-07-31T11:58:00.000-04:00

From the 1976 Salute to Johnny Mercer episode, lets see what the men are wearing.....

Tom Netherton with a combination leisure suit and turtleneck, all grey.

Larry Hooper and Jimmy Roberts going a bit more colorful, light blue and brown....

Joe Feeney feeling a bit plaid, according to his jacket.

A Champagne Medley from '63

2011-07-26T20:31:00.000-04:00

From this 1963 black & white episode, here's the boys in the band with a medley of songs done in Champagne Style starting with Swinging Down the Lane, followed by Linger Awhile and finishes up with Don't Sit Under The Apple Tree.

And watch out for featured performances by Bill Page, Kenny Trimble, Bob Ralston, Dick Cathcart and Don Bonnee!

Always keep Sally Flynn in your heart

2011-07-23T14:47:00.000-04:00

Cuz' today is her birthday today, and you know it's going to be a party!

In a Penny Arcade

2011-07-20T16:45:00.001-04:00

From 1978, here's the trio of Sandi, Gail and Mary Lou along with some stuffed, furry friends as they sing one of the lost hits from the 1970s.

It's a little ditty about fun at a penny arcade.

The lovely and talented Sheila Aldridge

2011-07-18T14:33:00.000-04:00

And it's also her birthday today!

Get your message on with the new Message Boards

2011-07-17T10:12:00.004-04:00

I've been making some changes here on the webpage lately.

I decided to close down the Trading Post. Lets just say that I was able to accomplish my intended goals with that particular section.

However, not all the news is subtraction. I added a new feature to replace the Trading Post.

There's a new forum in town for debate, Welk Musical Family finally has it's own Message Board!

So come on and join, bring your friends, family, strangers and even your own worst enemy to start to discussion on all things Welk!

Here's the link: WELK MUSICAL FAMILY MESSAGE BOARDS

The 2011-12 Welk season show schedule has arrived!

2011-07-15T08:39:00.000-04:00

Finally, after another season of repeats.....not only there will be Welk in 2011-12 but new episodes as well!

Here is the rundown from our friends at OETA, and I like the rest of you guys, I'm looking forward to the new season.

The new episodes are in all caps, repeats are not.

9-3-2011: LAWRENCE WELK'S PREMIERE SHOW
9-10-11: SONGS FROM THE MOVIES
9-17-11: DOWN ON THE FARM
9-24-11: Salute to the Swing Bands
10-1-11: Salute to the USA
10-8-11: SALUTE TO OUR SENIOR CITIZENS
10-15-11: County Fair
10-22-11: Tribute to Disney
10-29-11: Halloween Party

11-5-11: YOU'RE NEVER TOO YOUNG
11-12-11: TRIBUTE TO FRED ASTAIRE
11-19-11: THANKSGIVING
11-26-11: Tribute to Vincent Youmans
12-3-11: Highways and Byways
12-10-11: Do You Remember?
12-17-11: Songs of the 70's
12-24-11: CHRISTMAS
12-31-11: NEW YEAR'S SHOW
1-7-2012: Movie Songwriters with Henry Mancini

1-14-12: TOP SONGS FROM BROADWAY MUSICALS
1-21-12: 200 YEARS OF AMERICAN MUSIC
1-28-12: MEMORIES OF NAT KING COLE
2-4-12: THE ITALIAN SHOW
2-11-12: Love Songs
2-18-12: MARDI GRAS
2-25-12: SALUTE TO NEW YORK CITY
3-3-12: Big Bands
3-10-12: Grammy Award Songs
3-17-12: Keep a Song In Your Heart

3-24-12: THE IRISH SHOW
3-31-12: THE NORMA ZIMMER SHOW
4-7-12: EASTER
4-14-12: APRIL SHOWERS
4-21-12: 25th Anniversary Show
4-28-12: SIGHTS AND SOUNDS OF L.A.
5-5-12: Great Entertainers
5-12-12: MOTHERS DAY SHOW
5-19-12: SALUTE TO COLE PORTER
5-26-12: There's Something About a Hometown Band

6-2-12: Childhood Memories
6-9-12: Famous Resorts
6-16-12: MY BLUE HEAVEN
6-23-12: SALUTE TO HARRY WARREN
7-7-12: AMERICA ON THE MOVE
7-14-12: Strike Up The Band
7-21-12: THE GREAT GEORGE GERSHWIN
7-28-12: From Polkas to Classics
8-4-12: Salute to Jerome Kern
8-11-12: SMALL TOWN U.S.A
8-25-12: Rhythm is Our Business

I'll keep you all posted on any updates to the schedule

Jamie Corey, The Maestro and Tom Netherton

2011-07-14T10:35:00.003-04:00

Who says that work cannot be fun?

Everybody's Talking

2011-07-13T06:40:00.000-04:00

From 1981, here's the Aldridge Sisters and the Otwell Twins with their version of Nilsson's hit song from the movie Midnight Cowboy.

Live from Hawaii, it's Caption This!

2011-07-09T00:15:00.001-04:00

Featuring Gail Farrell, Mary Lou Metzger and Charlie Parlato!

Add your own funny or clever (even both!) caption to this picture, just by clicking on the comments link below.

Accordion Polka

2011-07-07T08:44:00.000-04:00

From 1957, here's Myron Floren on the PAN accordion with a piece aptly titled "The Accordion Polka."

And if you notice towards the end, the Music Makers invade the stage for some dancing, see if you recognize one of your old favorites!

Have a safe and happy Fourth of July weekend

2011-07-02T09:10:00.000-04:00

If the weather is good, take advantage of it....like the Musical Family.

Have you ever met a real live girl?

2011-06-29T20:18:00.000-04:00

Dick Dale has, here in this musical number with Gail Farrell from 1971 singing about being with a real live girl.

Frank Scott Plays Harpsichord

2011-06-27T10:06:00.000-04:00

As plenty of us Welk fans know, Frank Scott was a multi-talented keyboardist and arranger for the Lawrence Welk Orchestra from 1956 to 1969.

The native son of Fargo, North Dakota was a natural playing the piano, harpsichord and the Vox.

Perhaps the greatest example of his work came from his 1962 Dot Records album Frank Scott Plays Harpsichord

Each and every of the tracks is a instrumental gem, like Boogie Woogie, Yankee Doodle Rag and Woodchopper's Ball just to name a few. You can find the album at a vintage record shop near you or search on ebay or any fine reputable online auction site.

In the meantime, here's two of the tracks from the album you can have a sample with.

CARMEN'S BOOGIE

KITTEN ON THE KEYS

Things go better with Skokiaan

2011-06-24T09:01:00.000-04:00

From 1968, here's the boys in the band with their rendition of the instrumental piece known to music lovers everywhere as just one word.

Skokiaan.

Your featured musicians are Frank Scott at the Vox, Neil Levang on guitar, Richard Maloof on bass guitar, Bob Davis and Dave Edwards on clarinet, Johnny Klein on drums and Jack Imel at the marimba.

Champagne Satellite Survey - April 19, 1969

2011-06-20T22:08:00.000-04:00

I was thinking of doing something different to put on my blog, to keep it fresh.

One day, and idea came to me when I listened to repeats of Casey Kasem's AT40 countdown show and I thought, I wonder what episode of the Lawrence Welk Show aired during the week of the featured countdown?

So tonight, I decided to choose a particular episode of a Welk show and also show who was on Billboard magazine's Top 40 list that same week.

It's kinda a neat trip down musical nostalgia, maybe it might bring back memories for you guys!

So my grand experiment begins with a random episode, April Showers which first aired April 19, 1969 on the ABC network

And here's the Top 40 most popular records on that same Saturday, beginning at #40 and counting down to #1....

40. ARBORS - The Letter
39. PEPPERMINT RAINBOW - Will You Be Staying After Sunday
38. BETTYE SWANN - Don't Touch Me
37. THE BEE GEES - First of May
36. SIR DOUGLAS QUINTET - Mendocino
35. ELVIS PRESLEY - Memories
34. TYRONE DAVIS - Is That Something You Got
33. FRANK SINATRA - My Way
32. THE BEACH BOYS - I Can Hear Music
31. CLARENCE CARTER - Snatching It Back
30. JAMES BROWN - I Don't Want Nobody To Give Me Nothing
29. THREE DOG NIGHT - Try A Little Tenderness
28. 1910 FRUITGUM COMPANY - Indian Giver
27. BUBBLE PUPPY - Hot Smoke & Sasafrass
26. NEIL DIAMOND - Brother Love's Traveling Salvation Show
25. DIANA ROSS & THE SUPREMES & THE TEMPATIONS - I'll Try Something New
24. BOOKER T & THE MGs - Time is Tight
23. DAVID RUFFIN - My Whole World Ended (The Moment You Left Me)
22. DIONNE WARWICK - This Girl's In Love With You
21. JOE SIMON - The Chokin' Kind
20. SIMON & GARFUNKEL - The Boxer
19. CREEDENCE CLEARWATER REVIVAL - Proud Mary
18. PAUL REVERE & THE RAIDERS - Mr. Sun, Mr. Moon
17. THE VENTURES - Hawaii 5-0
16. CLASSICS IV - Traces
15. GARY PUCKETT & THE UNION GAP - Don't Give In To Him
14. CRAZY ELEPHANT - Gimmie Gimmie Good Lovin'
13. WATTS 103RD STREET RHYTHM BAND - Do Your Thing
12. TOMMY JAMES & THE SHONDELLS - Sweet Cherry Wine
11. THE TEMPTATIONS - Runaway Child Running Wild
10. STEPPENWOLF - Rock Me
9. ZOMBIES - Time of the Season
8. EDWIN STARR - 25 Miles
7. THE COWSILLS - Hair
6. GLEN CAMPBELL - Galveston
5. TOMMY ROE - Dizzy
4. JERRY BUTLER - Only The Strong Survive
3. ISLEY BROTHERS - It's Your Thing
2. BLOOD SWEAT AND TEARS - You've Made Me So Very Happy
1. THE 5TH DIMENSION - Aquarius/Let The Sunshine In

What to wear when going on vacation

2011-06-19T12:29:00.000-04:00

You have to dress accordingly, which depends on the place you're visiting....

For a trip to Niagara Falls, stay dry like Guy in a raincoat.

If you're heading down Acapulco way, dress like you're going to dance the Cha Cha....

But if you're going to the beach, and you want to avoid sunburn at all costs, this will do.

And finally, what goes better with the islands of Hawaii than those bold and colorful Hawaiian Shirts.

They're having a great time, wish you were here!

The Lennon Sisters help out Joplin

2011-06-17T08:40:00.000-04:00

You may have heard about last month's devastating tornadoes that struck Joplin, Missouri.

The Lennon Sisters, just one of the many stars of nearby Branson will be taking part in a live benefit concert and telethon titled the Branson Cares Benefit.

It will air nationwide on the RFD Network on Sunday, June 26th from 7-10pm Central Time.

For more information on the stars taking part, and how you can help, visit OZARKS FIRST: BRANSON CARES BENEFIT

It's all happening at the County Fair

2011-06-12T19:53:00.000-04:00

This week's show, if you were able to get it, was the Carnival episode from 1981.

Let's see what is going on over at the midway....

"Sitting down on the job again? That will be TWO custard pies to the face!"

And the competitors take the customary bow of respect before tonight's match.....

"Ouch! That really hurts Gail!"

"And now let's groove on down the Soul Train Line to see what's jivin...."

Today, UAW Local 12....Tomorrow, Broadway!

2011-06-11T08:57:00.000-04:00

A commercial that runs two minutes and 43 seconds?

That's unheard of in today's television! But back in the late 1950s, it was the norm as seen from this Plymouth commerical featuring some of your favorite Welk Stars from the Silver Champagne Era.

And just to keep score, they are Dick Dale, Alice Lon, Larry Hooper, Big Tiny Little, Bob Lido and Rocky Rockwell.

Lawrence Welk Souvenir Program from 1966

2011-06-08T11:37:00.001-04:00

If you went to a live Welk concert around 1966 to 1967, chances are you might have purchased this program as well.

It was also around this time the Welk show began broadcasting in glorious color!

Just click below to view the program in it's entirety. Get to know your favorite Music Makers and then some!

Yes folks, Lawrence Welk is still the one for Portland

2011-06-05T19:45:00.000-04:00

Diving into the treasure chest that is You Tube, I found this gem from 1980. It's a Lawrence Welk Show promo from KATU in Portland, Oregon.

You'll notice in the middle of the clip that Gail Farrell is singing in a number with the Aldridge Sisters and the Otwell Twins....

I hope PBS airs that episode when the new season begins in September!

No Welk this week in Toledo

2011-06-04T23:05:00.000-04:00

Both the Northwest Ohio PBS stations were in mini-pledge mode....

Luckily, the would-be scheduled show is Occupations from 1969 which I already have on tape.....

It's a reminder about the uncertainly of the future of public broadcasting, so hopefully you'll do your part with your support, I know I have.

Lawrence Welk's 50th Anniversary Album

2011-06-01T20:01:00.000-04:00

This nice collecters item, which can be found on ebay, was first published in 1974 to celebrate Lawrence Welk's 50 years in show business.

Who would have thought that back in 1924, a North Dakota farmboy whose parents were German immigrants, had little formal education and spoke little English would one day become one of America's most popular and successful musical personalites?

You can follow his whole story in pictures here, just click below and find out why the American Dream is possible!

Have a safe Memorial Day

2011-05-29T09:26:00.000-04:00

It's always nice to have a three day weekend.....

And don't forget to remember those who gave their lives so we can live free....

Yes Virginia, there will be a Lennon Sisters Christmas in Branson this year

2011-05-26T06:24:00.001-04:00

Just as you thought last year's Lennon Sisters Christmas Show at the Welk Resort would be the last one in Branson ever, think again....

Here's an early Christmas gift for you, they signed a contract to take their show to Andy Williams' Theater from November 1st to December 10th.

And any Lennon fan would know that back in they day, they performed with Mister Moon River on stage and television.

More information can be found at Andy's website, I have a feeling this is going to be fun!

Buddy's Boogie

2011-05-25T09:25:00.000-04:00

Straight from the Silver Champagne Era, here's Buddy Merrill on his Fender Stratocaster playing the ever-popular "Buddy's Boogie".

First post since the Rapture

2011-05-22T13:01:00.000-04:00

Well, the supposed Rapture came and went and nothing happened...

Better luck next time doomsday sayers! In the meantime, I invite you to highlights from this week's Welk episode, Childhood Memories from 1972.

"Kevin, I'm going to teach you how to dance like Grandpa, just pretend that I am a little old lady..."

"I SAID GIVE ME A BIG PUSH.....TO THE MOON!"

"Bueller, Bueller....."

I can't believe Bobby Burgess turns 70

2011-05-19T12:42:00.000-04:00

To us Welk fans, and those growing up on the Mickey Mouse Club, he's is just eternally youthful....

Happy Birthday Bobby!

It comes right after you have that Prenuptial Feelin'

2011-05-17T12:45:00.000-04:00

It's something we like to call that Honeymoon Feeling.

And this classic Roy Clark hit song is covered here by the Aldridge Sisters from this past weekend's Welk show.

Great Entertainers: More Highlights

2011-05-15T15:24:00.000-04:00

Let's take a look at what happened on this week's episode....

Myron plays a medley of Van Halen songs on the PAN accordion....

"First one to lose balance has to buy lunch!"

Ken and the cast recreate their favorite scene from Saturday Night Fever....

"I got him right where I want him, he he!"

A Toast To Our Champagne Lady

2011-05-13T20:29:00.000-04:00

In the last few days, the newspaper and media coverage of Norma Zimmer's passing has been fast and furious.

There has been many obituaries and tributes published, but 90% of them are basically reprints from the AP wire service.

However there are exceptions of course, here below is a sweet, lovely and well written original piece by Jonathon Pinkerton which in my opinion gives the best tribute of them all....

LAWRENCE WELK'S CHAMPAGNE LADY: A TOAST TO HER CAREER courtesy of Examiner.com

Norma Zimmer obituares

2011-05-12T06:45:00.000-04:00

The written tributes are coming in paper by paper.....

The first one comes from Rita Sherrow of the TULSA WORLD

Another fine tribute comes courtesy of Lynn Elber from the SACRAMENTO BEE.

Finally, here's her profile from legacy.com where you can send your condolences.

This day in Welk history: May 11, 1951

2011-05-11T15:58:00.000-04:00

The Lawrence Welk Show begins it's long run on television when it debuts on KTLA in Los Angeles.

Sixty years later, the world is a better place.

R.I.P Norma Zimmer (1923-2011)

2011-05-11T07:45:00.000-04:00

I found out last night over on Facebook that Champagne Lady Norma Zimmer has passed away yesterday.

She was as Lawrence Welk described, one of the most beautiful women in television, and she was both inside and out.

I will pass along more information as soon it becomes available.

She will be missed.

Champagne Book of the Month Club: Ralna English Family Cookbook

2011-05-10T12:27:00.000-04:00

In this month's entry, we stay in the kitchen for another recipe of home cooking from one of the Champagne Music Makers!

First published in 2007 as one of the thank you gifts from Ralna English's pledge special "From My Heart". Ralna's Family Cookbook features down home recipes such as Beer Can Chicken, Sunday Pot Roast, Dang Good Pie, Texas Salsa and Trash (or Cereal Mix).

This book is a family affair, in the truest since since the recipes featured are submitted by Ralna herself, her sisters Sharon and Jane and original creations from her mom, dad and Aunt Pearl.

It's a wunnerful, wunnerful book, filled with vintage pictures from her family album and mouthwatering delights you can cook up for your family and friends at your next get-together.

And it's also good reading too, when you're munching on a handful of Trash!

I Left My Heart in..... Oakland?

2011-05-08T09:20:00.000-04:00

First off, Happy Mothers Day to all the moms out there, including my own!

Watched the repeat of the 1968 California show last night, it's where the Maestro filmed his segments with a neat life-sized cut-out of the state of California.

I noticed in the point of the show where Lawrence introduced Jimmy Roberts' number, "I Left My Heart in San Francisco" and then went about to point his baton where the Golden Gate City is located.....

....but there's one little error here.

Somehow, San Francisco is now located in the East Bay, where Oakland is....

Me thinks the citizenry there would not be too pleased.

Kathie Sullivan asks, "Why do I love you?"

2011-05-06T14:15:00.001-04:00

From 1980, here's Kathie from the Love Songs episode as she sings "Why Do I Love You?"

.....with Joe Livoti leading the string section

The Champagne Five - Tanya's covers of James Bond songs

2011-05-04T11:20:00.003-04:00

Today, we celebrate the birthday of our favorite Italian daughter-in-law of the Maestro....Tanya Falan.

She can sing all sorts of song styles, and that includes torch songs and title songs from the movies.

And one the best, and my favorite movie songs come from those great James Bond films.

So on this occasion, we combine two of my favorites into this edition of the Champagne Five.

It's the top 007 movie songs I would loved to see and hear Tanya cover on the Welk show, or live in concert.

1. GOLDFINGER (Shirley Bassey - Goldfinger)
2. YOU ONLY LIVE TWICE (Nancy Sinatra - You Only Live Twice)
3. DIAMONDS ARE FOREVER (Shirley Bassey - Diamonds Are Forever)
4. NOBODY DOES IT BETTER (Carly Simon - The Spy Who Loved Me)
5. MOONRAKER (Shirley Bassey - Moonraker)

Happy Birthday Tanya!

Keep a song in your heart, and your martini be shaken and not stirred.

Today is National Trombone Day

2011-05-03T09:21:00.000-04:00

....also known as Bob Havens' birthday

Happy Birthday Bob!

Today, I feel like dancing

2011-05-02T12:32:00.001-04:00

So let's get down to the Town & Country Polka from 1960.....

....with Rocky Rockwell

....and Janet Lennon.

Another Salute to Grammy Winning Songs

2011-04-30T10:11:00.000-04:00

Well, this week all the public television stations will air the Salute to Grammy Winning Songs episode from '74.

Which leads me to today's post, if the Music Makers aired another episode of that same theme, which Grammy songs would they cover?

I think it would go something like this.....

1. UP UP AND AWAY (1968 Song of the Year) - Gail, Mary Lou, Cissy, Ralna, Dick, Ken, Bobby & Guy
2. THE BATTLE OF NEW ORLEANS (1960 Song of the Year) - Clay Hart on guitar
3. SEXYBACK (2007 Best Dance Recording) - the orchestra
4. DON'T KNOW WHY (2003 Female Pop Vocal Performance) - Tanya Falan
5. JUST THE TWO OF US (1982 Best R&B Song) - Guy Hovis & Ralna English
6. FREEWAY OF LOVE (1986 Best R&B song) - orchestra featuring Henry Cuesta on clarinet solo
7. ME AND MRS. JONES (1973 Best Male R&B Vocal) - Jimmy Roberts
8. YOU OUGHTA KNOW (1996 Best Rock Song) - Sandi Griffiths, Gail Farrell and Mary Lou Metzger
9. BLACK HOLE SUN (1995 Best Hard Rock Performance) - Myron Floren on accordion

11. BILLIE JEAN (1984 Best Male R&B Vocal) - Joe Feeney with Bob Ralston at the Thomas Organ
12. COPACABANA "AT THE COPA" (1978 Best Male Pop Performance) - Anacani
13. LIGHT MY FIRE (1969 Best Male Pop Performance) - Buddy Merrill and Neil Levang at guitar
14. IF YOU LEAVE ME NOW (1977 Best Pop Performance by a duo or group) - Norma Zimmer
15. JUMP JIVE AN' WAIL (1999 Best Pop Performance by a duo or group) - Bobby Burgess and Cissy King dancing
16. MIAMI VICE THEME (1986 Best Pop Instrumental) - the orchestra
17. WHEN I FALL IN LOVE (1997 Best Pop Collaboration with vocals) - Dick Dale and Gail Farrell
18. SHUT UP AND KISS ME (1995 Best Female Country Performance) - Ava Barber
19. NEVER KNEW LOVE LIKE THIS BEFORE (1981 Best R&B Song) - Gail, Sandi, Mary Lou, Anacani, Cissy, Dick, Ken, Joe, Clay and Jimmy

Charlotte Harris and her cello

2011-04-29T09:20:00.000-04:00

Happy Birthday Charlotte!

It's indeed an honor that the royal wedding is held on this same day....

Charlotte is indeed the Queen of all Cello Players!

Oh that Norman Bailey!

2011-04-28T13:30:00.000-04:00

From 1956, here's Norm at the trumpet playing the melody aptly titled Oh!

Bob Davis

2011-04-26T09:00:00.000-04:00

Today is his birthday!

The best way to celebrate is to play one of the reed instruments.

Ladies love that you know....

Happy Easter everyone

2011-04-24T07:15:00.001-04:00

It's a nice day for strolling to church.....

Today's service will be inspirational.....

.....and afterwards, lets go hunting for Easter eggs amongst the tulips.

But make sure you tiptoe please.

Nothing to see here, that's just Elmer's Tune

2011-04-23T09:25:00.000-04:00

From 1974, here's Dick Dale with the girls as they sing this classic Glenn Miller song.

Yet another post that's One Toke Over The Line

2011-04-20T12:48:00.000-04:00

Mainly because today is 4/20.....

From what I heard it's a national holiday for those who smoke the "wacky weed."

And by the way, I do not smoke that stuff or advocate the use of that stuff.

What you choose to do is your own personal responsibility.

That being said, I once again drag up the subject that is Dick Dale and Gail Farrell's cover of Brewer & Shipley's hit song "One Toke Over The Line".

Somehow, and this is just my opinion only, I think many members of the Musical Family really knew the true meaning of that song's lyrics.

And believe me, it ain't religious, even if the Maestro says it's a 'Modern Day Spiritual'.

If you've seen the video on You Tube, you noticed when Myron Floren was introducing the number, he coughs midway....

Maybe he knew something, or not, or he's just clearing his throat....

But it does add a bit of mystery and myth to this classic moment in music history though.

Once again, in "celebration" of this phenomenon known as 4/20, here's the number again for all to enjoy!

Welk Musical Family tumbles into the Tumblr phenomenon

2011-04-19T09:50:00.000-04:00

The times are a changin'....

and Welk Musical Family is taking part in them as well.

Since this blog was first launched five years ago, I knew that finding fresh Welk related material would be hard once I approached 500, 1,000 & 1,500 posts.

Now that I'm approaching 1,700, it's time for me to cut back.

I'm still going to post here, I'm just going to reduce the number of throw away posts and put up more fresh, entertaining and fun material here.

And I will still post editorials here as well, I'm not giving up my right to rant.

But I do want to post Welk related pictures, without the hassle of course so I decided to launch Welk Musical Family's new official Tumblr page!

This will be updated with pictures as the days and months go by, some new, some old favorites but I know it's going to be fun for you to view as it is going to be fun for me posting.

And the best part of it all, you will be able to submit Welk pictures of your own as well.

So be a part of the Tumblr phenomenon, and tumble on down!

Hit Songs From Broadway '74

2011-04-17T10:38:00.002-04:00

Here's some of the highlights from this week's episode....

Sandi, Mary Lou and Gail are at the end of their rope.....

Anacani asks Henry Cuesta for extra change in order to use the studio's snack machine.....

Ava Barber plays with Roger Sullivan's cheeks for good luck.....

And the Musical Family would not touch the buffet table with a ten foot pole.

Must be the bean dip everyone's talking about

Just singing in the rain

2011-04-16T14:05:00.000-04:00

It's wet, cloudy and soggy around here.....might as well make music about it.

Champagne Book of the Month Club: Recipes for Remembrance

2011-04-15T09:38:00.000-04:00

Getting hungry?

Tired of the same old dishes for dinner?

Need new ideas to sink your teeth into?

All this can be answered with this book of the month for April!

First published in 1985, and again in 2002....this book is a collection of personal recipes from members of the Musical Family complied by Cinda Goold Redman (Michael Redman's wife) and Jo Berry. Jack Imel's Sugar Cream Pie, Kenny Trimble's Black-Eyed Peas, Dick Dale's Beef Ribs, Gail Farrell's Veal Piccata are one of many tasty dishes featured in the book.

And of course, the Maestro himself, Lawrence Welk has his famous Chicken N' Dumplin's recipe as well!

I guarantee that there is a recipe that suits anyone's different taste, and is a great way to spice up breakfast, lunch or dinner.

And overall, make this featured book of the month worth reading!

Close Encounters of the Champagne Kind

2011-04-13T12:34:00.000-04:00

Somehow, if there is life on other planets, I doubt that they would look like what Cissy and Bobby are wearing....

In a Persian Market

2011-04-12T09:27:00.000-04:00

Here's the boys in the band from 1956 as they all put on their Sunday best and go shopping in a Persian Market!

Anyone remember Keep Sack?

2011-04-11T10:18:00.000-04:00

It was the line of cartoon themed luggage created by Sally & Clay Hart....

Maybe you owned a set, or knew someone that did!

Celebrate Diez de Abril

2011-04-10T09:18:00.000-04:00

It's just as fun as Cinco de Mayo, but unlike that particular holiday, here on Diez de Abril, we Welk fans get to celebrate the lovely Anacani's birthday!

Here's Ana from Branson in 2008....

Feliz Cumpleanos Anacani!

Tanya talks about her struggle for a normal life!

2011-04-09T11:19:00.000-04:00

That's what the headline says on the cover of the November 1972 issue of TV Star Parade

According to the article, written by Ann Bruce, it's really all about getting away from the hassle and stress of work for some relaxin' and recreation, something we all can relate to.

Read the whole story below....

Peggy Lennon's Platinum Jubilee

2011-04-08T09:13:00.000-04:00

Which also means today is her 70th birthday....

Happy Birthday Peggy!

Kathy Lennon and Steve Smith

2011-04-07T09:35:00.000-04:00

Dancing the night away down in New Orleans....

The Aldridge Sisters with a few of their famous friends....

2011-04-06T07:44:00.000-04:00

Icons such as George Burns....

Don Rickles.....

....and last but certainly not least, Bob Hope!

At last, Toledo finally got to see that Marvin Hamlisch special

2011-04-04T08:05:00.001-04:00

You know, the one everyone was talking about....

In a nutshell, it was originally a made as a public television pledge drive special hosted by Marvin himself.

Marvin Hamlisch Presents the 70s; The Way We Were featured some of your favorite songs from the decade performed by the icons from that era, such as Freda Payne, Marilyn McCoo, Bobby Goldsboro, B.J Thomas and Ray Stevens just to name a few.

But for us Welk fans, it was that Guy & Ralna that was also featured amongst the roster of stars in the show, which was taped at Lindenwood University located just outside of St. Louis.

They sang "Just An Old Fashioned Love Song" which was a big hit for Three Dog Night in 1971. And by the way, our Favorite Singing Married Couple covered that same song some thirty odd years ago on the Welk show too.

That was not the only number they did, G&R also covered "Put Your Hand In The Hand", "You Needed Me" and "Lean On Me" in the show as well, but they were not included in the original broadcast. You have to get the companion CD and DVD for those numbers and much more bonus stuff as well.

Here they are, in all their glory....

And by the way, they were terrific as always!

Junice strikes again!

2011-04-03T09:04:00.001-04:00

It's been a while, but we have another Lawrence Welk parody on Saturday Night Live....

Last night, Junice and her sisters from the Finger Lakes made magic on the small screen, this time with SNL's featured host this week, the Piano Man himself, Sir Elton John.

Here's the video in all their comedic glory....

George Thow from 1981

2011-04-02T09:38:00.000-04:00

Today is a good day to pick up the trumpet again....

.....and jam Dixieland style with Bob Havens!

Musical Family Headshots - Sally & Clay

2011-04-01T09:29:00.000-04:00

This was taken during the late 1970s, when they toured the country as a singing act

More Vintage Champagne from the Paley Center in pictures

2011-03-30T07:22:00.000-04:00

These are from the Life.com webpage, and they are terrific!

Just click on the logo above to view them.