Hearing that Davy Jones passed away a few days ago brought me back to the early 1970s when I’d rely on TV shows and grocery stores to hear music. A few years later, I discovered disco thanks to KTEL albums, Saturday Night Fever, and my second grade teacher Mr Bowmen. That changed everything, but before that, sitcoms and variety shows were my main source of hearing music.

1. What’s Goin’ On- Marvin Gaye (1971)

This played every Saturday morning at 6 AM; right before cartoons started. Between around 2 AM and 6 AM, the channel was “dead”, something you don’t see anymore.

2. For Pete’s Sake- The Monkees (1967)

The theme at the beginning of the show (“Hey hey we’re the Monkees”) was catchier, but this “closing theme” at the end was more substantial. It was from the 60’s, but I watched it in the 70’s (and was too young to know what a re-run was).

3. Band On The Run – Wings (1974)

This wasn’t on TV, so must’ve heard it in the grocery store. At that time, I’d never heard of The Beatles, nor knew any of their songs, but I knew and liked this one.

4. Popcorn-Hot Butter (1972)

In my elementary school, the teacher would play 8mm silent films and they’d play a cassette along with it. It didn’t synch up perfectly, nor did it need to. Pre-rave culture.

5. I Got You Babe -Sonny & Cher (1965)

The Sonny & Cher variety show was my favorite show as a kid. My mom turned me on to it and we’d watch it together.

6. Pinball Number Count (Twelve) Pointer Sisters (Sesame Street) (1972)

More psych stuff. Those “Sesame Street: Old School” DVDs are a great gift for anyone of any age with an open mind.

7. The Entertainer (Theme from The Sting)- Scott Joplin (1902/1974)

This was definitely a grocery store classic. I think it was my dad’s fav.

8. Seasons In The Sun- Terry Jacks (1974)

Grocery sto. This one freaked me out when I re-discovered it about a month ago because I literally hadn’t heard it since the mid 70’s. I’m not even sure if I liked it back then.