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CD Reviews |
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What a
surprise! |
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News
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Northwest Jazz Profile Magazine
interview |
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What a
surprise!
On Mar 6, 2008, at 1:43 PM, Joel Whitburn of RECORD RESEARCH wrote: Hello Gretchen,
What
a surprise! Thanks very much for
sending me your CD album. Im so
pleased to see that you're still
performing, recording and
carrying-on The Fleetwoods name. No
question that The Fleetwoods were
one of my all-time favorite vocal
groups in that important early rock
n roll era from 1959 to 1963. Your
trio ruled the Billboard Hot 100
charts in 1959 with two great
classic #1 songs, Come Softly To Me
and Mr. Blue.
Loved
your new Sweet Sixteen album. Your
vocals are pure and wonderful
throughout the 16 tracks.
Let
me know if and when you ever perform
in Milwaukee. I'd love to see your
show.
Joel
Whitburn
PS
I’ve
always loved songs about the
seasons, and, if I had to pick a
favorite it would be “Autumn Gold”.
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"Glowing
reviews from the media" On Feb 25, 2008, in his nationally syndicated column (Ask "Mr. Music"), Jerry Osborne wrote:
Gretchen's masterpiece, “Sweet Sixteen (Suite 16)” (Gold Cup
1601), came out a few months ago, and received glowing
reviews from the media.
Among its accolades is being named a Billboard Critics Pick
as one of the 10 Best Albums of 2007.
Unlike most concept albums, Christopher's “Sweet Sixteen
(Suite 16)” is a completely truthful soundtrack of her life
(including the Fleetwoods experience) and, more importantly,
her first love (inexplicably, someone other than this
journalist).
Gretchen wrote and arranged all of the music to tell the
story as it happened. She also created an insert booklet,
with fascinating text and photos, all of which enhances the
listening experience.
Music historians should now find it easier to define a
concept album, as “Sweet Sixteen (Suite 16)” is the model of
the genre.
It is fitting we talk about Gretchen's album this week,
since February 29th is her 17th birthday. For another
11-plus years, this leap year baby will still be a teenager.
Happy birthday Soft One!
http://www.jerryosborne.com/2-25-08.htm |
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"I'm
happy to be part of such a great celebration".
On Jan 29, 2008, at 4:59 PM, Jim Levinson wrote: Hi, Gretchen,
It's true that I "waited, waited so long," but yes, it was wellworth it!
I love the
album, and I'm happy to be part of such a
great celebration.
Thanks also for the autographed photo, which is wonderful.
Now you're 16 going on 17.
My best wishes for your 17th birthday.
Hope it will be another glorious day in your life!
Jim Levinson |
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Billboard Critics' Picks include
Gretchen's (SUITE
16) among 10 BEST ALBUMS of 2007 On Dec 20, 2007, from information appearing on Billboard.com
Billboard.com Chart Beat columnist
(and author of
The Billboard Book of #1 Hits, which includes Christopher's
first song "Come Softly To Me"), Fred Bronson picks Gretchen
Christopher, "Sweet Sixteen (Suite 16)" (Gold Cup) among
10
BEST ALBUMS and writes, "The former Fleetwoods singer, born
Feb. 29, celebrates her '16th birthday' by turning her life into
a stunning suite of 16 songs."
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GRETCHEN GETS AIRPLAY
FROM ENGLAND!
Look for it to be aired on The Cruisin' Show, www.rockitradio.net On Oct 7, 2007, at 3:25 AM, Cruisinshow@aol.com wrote:
JOHNNY G – CRUISIN’ SHOW 129 – OCT. 2007 Another eclectic mix of classics & rarities plus something brand new from The Fleetwoods' Gretchen Christopher. Her voice is even better than ever!! Gretchen and I chose one song each from her new CD. I'm sure you'll love both of them! Check her out at her website! www.GretchenChristopher.com
1. Without a Love - Johnny Isle (1959)
2. Mean Woman Blues - Jerry Lee Lewis (1957)
3. Sweet & Easy to Love - Roy Orbison (1957)
4. Take a Little Chance - Jimmy De Berry (19??)
5. Gimme Some Lovin' - Harold Jenkins (Conway Twitty) (1956)
6. Rockin' In Baghdad - Jerry Reed (1957)
7. Hong Kong Jelly Wong - The Royaltones (1956)
8. Sweet Sixteen - Gretchen Christopher (2007)
9. You Been Torturing Me - The Four Young Men ( 1960)
10. Looking For You - The Dukes (1959)
11. So Tired - Russ Morgan (1949)
12. Please Please Me - The Beatles (1963)
13. Wake Up Little Susie - The King Brothers (1957)
14. Blue Jean Bop - Gene Vincent (1956)
15. Hurricane - Joe Maphis & Larry Collins (1957)
16. Whistle Bait - Larry Collins (1958)
17. Snatch It & Grab It - Freddie Hart (1956)
18. William Tell Overture - Glen Campbell (1971)
19. Devil Gate Drive - Suzi Quatro (1974)
20. Schoolboy Crush - Cliff Richard & the Shadows (19??)
21. Dearest One - Fashions (1961)
22. That'll Get It - Larry Brinkley (19??)
23. Blue Suede Shoes - Elvis Presley (1956)
24. Ain't It Funny How Time Slips Away - Joe Hinton (1964)
25. Autumn Gold - Gretchen Christopher (2007)
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"Career highlight"
On Oct 17, 2007
(22:05:03),
Matt The Cat
wrote:
Gretchen, Interviewing you on 10/10 was a career highlight for me. Thanks so much for coming on my show and introducing America to your
new songs alongside your classic favorites. You are one of a kind.
Never stop singing. |
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"Truly
a work from your heart"
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"What a great CD"
On October 7, 2007 Fred Hemeon wrote:
What a great CD I've listened to Sweet sixteen 4 times now
and I like it more each time. Gretchen your voice is still
wonderful!! While I liked most of the tracks, I was stunned
by Autumn Gold. It has become a song I play over and over.
It has special meaning to me because my wife and I loved the
autumn, as it is particularly beautiful in upstate New York
where we live. We did take many, many autumn trips to
Vermont, New York and Mass. My wife Kay passed away August
5th 2007, so this song while making me cry also brought back
loving memories, which last forever. Thanks Gretchen for the
beautiful music, I just love the CD.
All the best, Fred |
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"The new CD-WOW!"
On October 6, 2007 Roger Melin wrote:
The new CD - WOW! Got it, listened to it over and over
already, and love it! The remakes are better than could be
expected, and the new stuff is remarkably pleasant to listen
to. THANK YOU for sharing your talents with us, Gretchen.
Dizzy was right: "you sing like an angel" and you always
have. Yet not just the voice, but the talent behind it all. The production work is exquisite, arrangements magnificent,
and the orchestration is true to the concept of the album. And each time I listen to the entire CD, my blues go away.
Thank you. Roger Melin |
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"well worth the wait!"
On October 5, 2007 Mike Slater wrote: Hi Gretchen-- I just received the package from you containing
your new CD, and I absolutely love it! It was well worth the wait! Thank you so much for remembering me! I loved what you wrote on it
too, and I really appreciate it! I just listened to the entire CD
and read the booklet as well. Your story is quite interesting and it
was so nice to hear about your first love re-entering your life
after 40 years...not everyone can say that! As for the songs, they
are really great! Like you said in your story, these songs would fit
very well in a Broadway play... especially the up-tempo ones, which
I thought sounded a lot like show tunes. I also enjoyed the new
recordings of "Come Softly To Me" and "Graduation's Here"...they're
really great! Your new songs have a contemporary sound, and yet you
still have that soft style and sound that made the Fleetwoods
recordings so beautiful and enjoyable. A lot of these would have
been perfect material for the group back in the '60's! Your voice
still sounds just as beautiful as it did back then, and you're still
as attractive as ever! I know how long and hard you worked on these
songs, but I hope they're not your last. I can't thank you enough
for sending me the CD and for all the wonderful music that you,
Barbara and Gary have given us through the years. Whenever I go out,
I always have to have a Fleetwoods CD with me to listen to in the
car...and now, your new one will be traveling with me too! I hope
you are well and I wish you all the best. Here's hoping you will
keep giving us your beautiful music and voice!--- |
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"SPECTACULAR" On October 1, 2007 Amanda wrote:
We got the Sweet Sixteen CD today, and we listened to it all the way
through, nonstop. It's a beautiful CD, the songs are SPECTACULAR. I
can't even choose favorites yet!! I can't wait until I get it burned
onto my Minidisk Player, then I can listen to it more and more. We
are very happy with the CD, thank you so much. I love it, my dad
loves it, and I bet my mother will love it too. =)
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"Amazing
You" On July 10, 2006 Barbara Ellis wrote: Subject: amazing you She worked on this project I should imagine, with both love and hate for all the hours, weeks, months and years given. There are some tunes written while we were Fleetwoods together. My favorite, "Blues Go Away". She was so young to know such heartbreak yet it all came from her soul. "Before You Go", another favorite along with "Autumn Gold". With lyrics and melody so touching. These were written later on in her career, and showing the same haunting soulful feelings. I have not heard all the tunes on this CD, but knowing Gretchen they will be her blood, sweat, tears and soul. She always gives her best to us. I wish you the best my dear old friend, and hope your fans and newcomers to your music sit back and enjoy. Always, All ways, Barbara |
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SUITE 16:
"Blues Go Away"
.... could be a "standard", right from the first listen.
On Jun 12, 2007, at 2:00 AM, Wayne Stierle wrote:
Gretchen Christopher, founder of the hit making trio,
The Fleetwoods, has always been active and making new
music. (The Fleetwoods were among only a few groups to
remain totally intact from the fifties into the
mid-sixties).
Here is an interesting CD that defies a territory as it
crosses into several musical areas. Gretchen reprises
her own "Graduation's Here" in a surprisingly upbeat and
convincing recording, as well as her best known
composition, "Come Softly To Me", in two arrangements
which would interest any fan of The Fleetwoods. "Sweet
Sixteen" is a personal journey song that has a good
story going for it, and even tips its' hat to "Mr. Blue"
and "Come Softly To Me". "Autumn Gold" and "Before You
Go" are as melancholy as the titles suggest, with
Gretchen bringing her own lyrics to life, while
"Everything Good In My Life" is an anthem to positive
thinking and living.
For myself, "Blues Go Away" is a song that suggests it
could be a "standard", right from the first listen.
Gretchen has written and created a jazz/blues ballad
that would sound at home on an easy-jazz station in the
wee wee hours of the morning. As a song writer and
vocalist, Gretchen brings a Peggy Lee aura to this fine
recording of her own inspired composition.
All in all, this is a CD with something for everybody,
in a generous 16 tracks from a true rock n' roll
survivor.
Wayne Stierle
Candlelite Music |
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GRETCHEN
CHRISTOPHER
OF THE
FLEETWOODS FAME and BMI MILLION AIRS SONGWRITER
CD REVIEW
BY KK RYDER
"A
FLEETWOOD STEERS HER OWN CAREER TOWARDS SOLO SUCCESS"
Gretchen
Christopher has captured, on Gretchen's SWEET SIXTEEN! (SUITE
16), a birthday present, not only to herself and long waiting
fans, but also to the very FIRST love of her life, Vos!
The CD
helps one to envision sitting in a Broadway play or at a ballet
with a story unfolding before their eyes - of, well, her life!
It's like
a fairy tale... for her to now be with her very FIRST love,
after years apart and a series of emotional roller coasters,
including triumphant victories with her career as a songwriter
and as one of the beautiful songbirds of THE FLEETWOODS.
Gretchen
Christopher regally captures her soul on not vinyl, this time
around, but on CD. She shares with the listener hit songs of her
FLEETWOOD cruising days, "Graduation's Here" and two
versions of "Come Softly To Me"; one is performed live
beautifully a cappella and the other has a nostalgic
quality revisited in this studio arrangement.
"The
Hardest Promise I'll Keep" is an anticipation song about
when your heart knows that you have to let a love go…but knowing
deep down, if the love is a forever love, that it will come
back.
On
"What Good Is Pride When You're Dyin' Inside", a fun reggae
feel mixed with a cool 50's guitar makes an appealing
interesting combination.
"Blues
Go Away", Gretchen's voice has a great bluesy Etta
James/Norah Jones quality to it!
The songs
she has written and chosen tell the story of her life. They are
songs that are relatable and heartfelt. I could even see someone
like Norah Jones covering one or two of Gretchen's songs.
Gretchen
has a very unique voice, she has the same beautiful songbird
qualities of her FLEETWOOD days, but she also delivers a fresh
jazzy, bluesy, theatrical feel which will pick up the listener
and take them along on a journey as they follow Gretchen softly
winding through the colors and emotions of her life, which could
help this CD roll right off the shelves and help steer Gretchen
Christopher into the hearts of her long waiting fans as well as
new listeners!
KK RYDER
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Musical Memoirs of the British Vice Consul in Dϋsseldorf. On October 29. 2007 David Kelly wrote:
MUSICAL MEMOIRS OF A FLEETWOODS FAN IN IRELAND
WHO GREW UP TO BE
THE BRITISH VICE CONSUL IN DÜSSELDORF
BOYHOOD:
By the
time spring of 1959 arrived, I had already learned to appreciate
good harmony singing (and had even begun to understand a little
of its construction by singing in the school choir). Then the
Fleetwoods, Gretchen Christopher, Barbara Ellis and Gary Troxel
entered my life. I first heard the Fleetwoods on Radio
Luxembourg, the only station that beamed popular music on a
regular basis to Britain at that time. Reception was always
patchy, but we didn't have much alternative. (The only other
place to hear real music was AFN, US Forces Radio out of
Frankfurt, which could sometimes be picked up after dark. ) I
was stopped in my tracks when they played "Come Softly To Me".
There was a warmer and more gentle cadence to it than other
harmony music and Gary's scat singing, the idea for which he
later claimed came from a Dell Vikings record, was totally
infectious and a perfect counterpoint to the girls' haunting
harmonies. I knew nothing about the Fleetwoods and had never
even seen a photo of them. A classmate said, "oh, they're from
Washington, you know," and that was the first bit of background
I acquired. "Come Softly To Me", already at No 1 in USA, became
a big hit in England a month or so later, peaking at no. 8, a
powerful achievement for a first release.
Later that year there followed two more hits, "Graduation's Here" and "Mr. Blue". The latter , written by Dewayne Blackwell (who later penned "Ferris Wheel" for the Everly Brothers), deservedly went to No 1 in USA. I was gradually discovering more about The Fleetwoods. They did indeed come from Washington, although not D.C. as I had first supposed, but Olympia in Washington State in the Pacific Northwest, about as far as you could get from D.C.
The line up of
two females and one male was unusual. I was only aware of one other
group using this format, Jim Ed Brown and his sisters Maxine and
Bonnie, with whom the Fleetwoods would later tour. What set the
Fleetwoods apart from all the the rest, however, was the subtle
three part harmonies and the sparse, understated musical
accompaniment. Each of the trio could sing the melody part and then
they could all slip into the harmony part together, sometimes within
the same song. Perfect. You couldn't pigeon hole them but their
voices, especially Gretchen's, had a certain jazz feel.
ADULTHOOD:
The years went by and I began to travel around the world with my work. Gretchen, Barbara and Gary continued to make superb music. They were in and out of the charts but always remained in heart and living room. After they left Dolton Records in late 1965 I didn't hear much news for a while. What a great thrill it was, therefore, when in 1974 I watched Steven Spielberg's film "American Graffiti" at the US Embassy in Delhi India and heard, among lots of other magnificent music, my idols singing "The Great Impostor", always one of my favourites. I went to the movie for five consecutive nights and even now I watch the DVD about once a month. But by this time Gretchen, Barbara and Gary had gone their separate ways and news was very rare. I remember having a work-related meeting with a man from Olympia during this period and, quickly disposing of the business aspects, steered the conversation in the direction of my heroes. Of course he had heard of them but he couldn't give me any information as to their current activities and suggested I write to newspapers in the area, which I did but to no avail. The highlight of the 1980s was Gretchen's gorgeous version of "Imagination" on the Buried Treasures album. Although I still did not get much news the Internet was just around the corner. I always remember that the first search I ever did on the net was "Fleetwoods". I eventually made contact with Gretchen who in the intervening years has patiently and graciously answered all my questions. Neither of us ever just takes her music for granted. My mails always conclude with "thank you for the music" and Gretchen invariably acknowledges it. So where were we? Oh yes, early 2007 and the story continues. Gretchen is about to release her long awaited CD and is gaining a whole new generation of fans, including her own grandchildren and Ben, the first child of my office colleague Jenny. He only settles down to sleep each night after his mother has sung "Come Softly To Me" to him (which Jenny herself learned from her father and me). If her next child is a daughter she intends to name her Gretchen. I cannot think of a nicer compliment. I wonder if in the 1950s those two Olympia schoolgirls could possibly have imagined that their singing together would have such a wide-reaching effect? Now there's an interesting question for Gretchen. Thank you for the music, Gretchen. David Kelly British Vice Consul Düsseldorf |
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SIMPLE SECURITY On Aug 5, 2007, at 12:42 PM, Charlotte Frank wrote: Put your car keys beside your bed at night. If you hear a noise outside your home or someone trying to get in your house, just press the panic button for your car. The alarm will be set off, and the horn will continue to sound until either you turn it off or the car battery dies. This tip came from a neighborhood watch coordinator. Next time you come home for the night and you start to put your keys away, think of this: It's a security alarm system that you probably already have and requires no installation. Test it. It will go off from most everywhere inside your house and will keep honking until your battery runs down or until you reset it with the button on the key fob chain. It works if you park in your driveway or garage. If your car alarm goes off when someone is trying to break in your house, odds are the burglar or rapist won't stick around... after a few seconds all the neighbors will be looking out their windows to see who is out there and sure enough the criminal won't want that. And remember to carry your keys while walking to your car in a parking lot. The alarm can work the same way there..... This is something that should really be shared with everyone. Maybe it could save a life or a sexual abuse crime. P.S. I am sending this to everyone I know because I think it is fantastic. Would also be useful for any emergency, such as a heart attack, where you can't reach a phone. My Mom has suggested to my Dad that he carry his car keys with him in case he falls outside and she doesn't hear him. He can activate the car alarm and then she'll know there's a problem. |
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| View this delightful, moving performance of 6 year old Connie. http://www.glumbert.com/media/connie | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Treble clef image courtesy of Lisabeth's Music Images at http://www.gymell.com/doc/musicimages.shtml |
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