“Happy Birthday” was written by Stevie Wonder to popularize the campaign (in which he was significantly involved) to make Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
s birthday a national holiday. In November 1983 President Ronald Reagan signed the holiday into existence. The first official Martin Luther King, Jr. Day was January 20, 1986 and a commemorative concert featuring Stevie Wonder was held. Stevie Wonder also performed the song in October 2011 at the dedication ceremony for the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial in Washington, D.C. “Happy Birthday” also appears on the album Hotter Than July.

Happy anniversary Mariah Carey! While we all know she’s got one of the best voices in the game (okay, if you’re asking me, it’s the best voice in the game), but she’s influenced more than generations of American Idol Contestants (did we mention she’s one of the most successful songwriters of all time too? 18 #1 hits almost all penned by Ms. Carey, putting her just behind Elvis). Happy Birthday Anniversary MC, and thank you for incomparable contributions to music!

Mariah Carey feat. ODB “Fantasy (Remix)”
The song that launched the pop-hip hop collaboration….

(more…)

We wanted to take a little time out today and send some happy birthday wishes to one of the greatest musicians of our time, the one and only Quincy Delight Jones. Yes, here at GFM we’ve had our moments where we’ve called into to question some recent projects by Q but that in no way diminishes our love and admiration for someone who has done so much for music.

(more…)

One of those great artists that you instantly know his sound within two notes. His music was as unapologetic as his persona. He never looked back, constantly pushed the music forward. This narrative is so succinctly summed up in two words: Miles Davis. (more…)

It goes without saying that we’re huge fans of Stevie. So, we just wanted to take a moment and wish him a very Happy 60th birthday! Enjoy this tribute courtesy of The Guardian.

Permalink
(more…)

GFM is setting aside some special space today to wish the “Love Man” Al Green a very Happy Birthday!

(more…)

GFM wanted to send a special Birthday shout to one of the greatest pianists/composers ever to do it!

(more…)