Exec BEGGED #1 Band NOT to Put Out “DUMB” Song With NO Drums…Became BIGGEST Hit!--Professor of Rock

This would NEVER happen today. How about this for a cool rock story? So The Rascals coming off a big #1, wrote Groovin', what they thought was another hit. But one of the most famous record men in history, Jerry Wexler, didn’t like it. So he discouraged Atlantic Records from releasing it. Well, the famous DJ Murray the K was STUNNED because he knew Groovin' was a #1. So he cornered the iconic label head and said 'Are you crazy? This is a friggin' #1 record.' And he was right… Get the story from the singer Felix Cavaliere and co-writer Eddie Brigati next on Professor of Rock.
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Hey music junkies, Professor of Rock always here to celebrate the greatest artists and the greatest songs of all time. If you ever invested more into your actual car stereo than your actual car you’re gonna love this channel. Subscribe below right now to get to know the real stories behind your favorite songs: most of the time from the artists themselves. Also take a look at our patreon link for another catalog of content below. and to support our mission of capturing the stories of rock
I love this story. It’s from an interview I did with a rock and roll hall of fame vocalist who’s pipes blew up radio in the 60s and 70s as the lead singer of the American rock group the young rascals or the rascals after they changed their name and the story of their 1967 #1 hit Groovin.
They had just hit paydirt with the #1 rocker Good Lovin. this was a group that gave the Beatles and Stones a run for their money for a little while with 3 #1 hits and 9 top 20 hits ever a couple of years time….
They had that perfect blue-eyed soul that many would mimic that came after. and to think one of the greatest songs to come out of the 60s Groovin Almost didn’t get released .. Legendary record man Jerry Wexler who signed and or produced some of the greatest acts of all time including Ray Charles, Aertha Franklin, Led Zeppelin, Dire Straits and Bob Dylan just to name a few didn’t care for the song. WExler didn’t want Atlantic records to put Groovin out as a single because he thought it was a stiff. He also didn’t like the fact that it didn’t have drums. Well famed New York DJ Murray the K thought the song was a smash and made it his goal to talk Wexler into letting the song get released so he cornered the record man and basically berated hime. He said are you crazy this is a friggin #1 record… It will be a stone cold smash. Well Jerry Wexler relented and the song got released and sure enough the song went to #1 for 4 weeks and became the rascals signature song.
Up next lead singer and cowriter Felix Cavaliere tells the story of writing the song with band mate Eddie Brigati and why the band changed their name from the young rascals to just the rascals and why the 60s are so special in the grand scheme of things. He’s such a great interview.
As we go into this interview I want to thank our sponsor Zenni Eyewear. the frames I wear every day if you need a new pair of glasses look no further. You can go design your own at Zenni.com and add amazing features like blue blokz that protect your eyes from digital blue light and they are the perfect weapon against rising inflation as you’ll get up to 80% off regular retail prices. that will add some style to your life. Check it out today

[@ProfessorofRock]

Poll: What song is your pick for the GREATEST BALLAD of all time?

[@Code.Name.V]

Nazareth - Love Hurts Queen - Who Wants To Live Forever Scorpions - Still Loving You

[@Sweet--Richard.4981]

STH

[@AnnaTrail-xp8pr]

Way too many but I Always Love You either Dolly or Whitney

[@donwarrington4916]

Lady - Kenny Rogers

[@catherine6653]

In My Life, The Beatles (John Lennon

[@LazyIRanch]

A few weeks ago, I was at the local hardware store in my small town with a large geriatric population (myself included). Even the folks who work there are old. The Rascals song, "Good Lovin'" came on over the speakers, someone turned it up, and I looked around and noticed I wasn't the only one dancing in the aisles. The old curmudgeons were even tapping their toes! It was so funny how that song created a whole mood in that store. It was like a scene out of "Cocoon" as we all remembered our youth for a few minutes.😃

[@Whisper_292]

Great story!

[@apj341]

Great Cocoon reference! 😊 I'm involved with my local senior center and certain songs make them dance too!

[@ebonerobinson]

That is a super cool story!

[@ProfessorofRock]

I love that story!

[@ProfessorofRock]

@@apj341 one of my favorite movies!

[@alanarakelian5021]

The two Young Rascals hits that followed "Groovin'" in the summer of 1967 -- "A Girl Like You" and "How Can I Be Sure" -- weren't too shabby, either.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

I love the latter song.

[@kathybest741]

My two favorite songs of theirs, How Can I Be Sure and A Girl Like You.

[@leeaycock8602]

I love "How Can I Be Sure".

[@paulshayter1113]

I never associated the song titles but that's actually 3 that I know with the title A Girl Like You. One from the 60s (Rascals), one from the 80s (Smithereens) and one from the 90s (Edwyn Collins). I think all were hits.

[@karlalong4541]

How Can I Be Sure is my favorite song of theirs. Loved the Rascals.

[@Whisper_292]

Groovin' is the perfect "chillin' by the pool" song. Makes me want to go lay out in the sun every time I hear it. Gets pretty chilly in December...

[@Lam_3-22-23]

Think you nailed it. How Can I Be Sure is actually my favorite of theirs, but Groovin' is a very close second

[@ProfessorofRock]

Where do you live?

[@Whisper_292]

@@ProfessorofRock I'm in Kentucky.

[@Whisper_292]

@@Lam_3-22-23 I didn't realize that was them. Learn something new every day.

[@Lam_3-22-23]

@@Whisper_292 Felix was not lead vocals on that one, it was Brigati

[@areneesouder]

Just can't beat music like this! The music of the late '60's and the '70's were absolutely the best!

[@bobgrayson6220]

The 70s and the 60s were definitely the best musical decades ! But tons of people think the 80s or the 90s were the best ! They have no clue as to what they're talking about !

[@denniscarey1621]

RIP Dino Danelli, Rascals drummer. The guy played with style.

[@Subwayguy98]

😢Dino was amazing on the drums...

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

Indeed.

[@54fighting5]

He was great. Watching him on TV as a kid just had me mesmerized.

[@martysmith5260]

One of the greatest rock drummers of all time but never ends up on any of the "Greatest Drummer" lists. Some of us who grew up in the 60's know better.

[@mvhoyt61able]

I love listening to the genuine love and humaness of Felix. Every time I run across one of his interviews, my world stops, and I absorb what he has to say. A true treasure.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

He’s such a good man.

[@compliance8250]

What a humble guy……no ego at all…..

[@jvsmith7888]

You can NEVER feel bad or down when "Good Lovin" starts playing. That song always picks you up and energizes you. Nothing better!

[@tnrodgers]

Groovin’ is such an easy song, void of stress. Beautiful Morning carries that same relaxed vibe. Your audience goes back a long way.

[@benkrom2737]

This was back when stores were closed on Sunday and most people were in church on Sunday mornings and others had a day to themselves and no one had Monday on their minds. Just enjoying the moment 😉 No one says Groovey anymore, such a great cool word 😎

[@istankimjong-unbutcantstan3398]

I'm glad. That and "far out" get on my nerves!

[@debbie4503]

How about Hey Dude! Sit on it...Going back to my pad...and Is that your Old Lady? 🤣

[@debbie4503]

​@@istankimjong-unbutcantstan3398Shhhh Youngster....

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

That’s right!

[@cc1k435]

​@@debbie4503I say sit on it to people all the time. 😂

[@paulendicott9151]

If you are old enough to remember not being able to have calculators in school, you will love this show!! This is the period my friends and I really started loving music 🎶 🎵. Keep it coming Professor....

[@ProfessorofRock]

Thanks for sharing!

[@justinskullhead]

Another good one " If you can read and write cursive handwriting, you will love this show!!"

[@dianewilliams1125]

I remember when there were no portable calculators!😅😅😅

[@BladeStar-uq6xe]

I think pocket calculators weren't invented until the year after I graduated. I remember playing Pac Man, Dig Dug and others in Japan months before I saw them in California!

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

So how would you calculate logs? 😜

[@karentrimmer]

The first time I heard "Groovin'" we were cruisin down to New Port Beach, CA on a sunny Sunday afternoon. Every time I hear it, it takes me right back to that moment in time. It was my favorite song for decades and is still on my playlists.

[@ProfessorofRock]

Thanks for sharing my friend!

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

Perfect timing!

[@CathyLaprade]

Wonderful song for us old people. Thank you Professor of Rock!!

[@AnnaTrail-xp8pr]

Who you calling old, lol 😆😅

[@ProfessorofRock]

Glad you enjoy it!

[@Lam_3-22-23]

How Wexler could have misjudged this song is insane. The Rascals are my favorite band from the '60s. Felix's voice is so unique, I've always wondered if the subtle break in his voice was natural or developed. Thanks, Prof.

[@LazyIRanch]

I moved to S. California from Texas 23 years ago. In 2002, I went to our cities' big 4th of July celebration. The headlining band was the Rascals, but I saw a couple of young guys tuning guitars before the show and thought, "Rats, it's just a tribute band". I just about lost my mind when Felix stepped on stage and sang these great songs, sounding as awesome as ever! My 10 year old son thought I was bonkers, I just kept telling him, "That's Felix! That's REALLY Felix!"

[@ProfessorofRock]

Very cool!

[@Lam_3-22-23]

​@@LazyIRanchI would have loved that. I have a granddaughter that loves 60's music. Next to Tommy James the Rascals are her favorite

[@BigJoe_Mosqueda]

@LazylRanch...Was the 2002 4th of July concert in Moreno Valley CA.? I remember my late wife Carmen and I seeing Felix performing most of the Rascals hits that evening, it was an awesome show.....!

[@LazyIRanch]

@@BigJoe_Mosqueda YES! It was fantastic, and that day was so much fun! If y'all bumped into a weird lady with a thick Texas drawl, who was dancing like a maniac, that was me!🤪 I am so sorry that your dear wife is no longer with you, but glad that you shared so much love and joy with Carmen (beautiful name!). My first day living in Moreno Valley, CA was July 3rd, 2001. I drove for 3 days with my 9 year old son and our two cats to escape a very bad situation back in Dallas, TX. That celebration of Freedom on July 4th, 2002 had special meaning for us. We felt safe at last, and after a year of living in SoCal, I was in love with my new home. In 2003 I bought a 20 acre property up on Mt. San Jacinto for $15,000 cash. Ridiculously cheap for SoCal real estate. We had a manufactured house built that was supposed to be set on the property in early Oct. 2006 but the factory was late in finishing it. Thank goodness! On Oct. 26, 2006, the Esperanza fire swept over the mountain and charred everything, including our 7 neighbors' homes. That was the fire that took the lives of five brave firefighters, and that site is now a memorial. The owner built that memorial instead of rebuilding his house because he said, "This is hallowed ground now, it belongs to their memories". That is my closest neighbor now, about a mile away. I figure if you lived in Moreno Valley, you know all about that horrible tragedy.😭 I found out the hard way why the land was so cheap, but I've lived here, off-grid, for 17 years now and I love this place with all my heart. I keep goats to clear the brush from my property and I don't plant any trees or build anything out of wood. So far, that's saved us, as the Silver Fire came through here in 2013 and my son and I were trapped and couldn't evacuate and had to shelter in place. The fire captain came to see if we were okay after the fire passed through, and he told me, "Lady, your goats SAVED your ass!" A smart person would leave, but I can't imagine living anywhere else except maybe Idyllwild which is further up the mountain. The banner pic on my channel is the view from my porch. Those are the famous Coachella Valley wind turbines which provide clean power to Palm Springs and beyond. The air up here is so clean, at night the stars and meteor showers are breathtaking! Sorry, I know I "talk" too much, but there is so much I love about living here and I'm feeling particularly grateful today. If I get killed by fire or mountain lion, so be it. I had a great life here while it lasted.😃

[@SarahBarnes-cr8nr]

Felix and Eddie's voices are magic together.

[@justinskullhead]

It's amazing how many times the execs say that a song isn't a hit, but went on to be timeless classics.

[@fredgroenke2586]

We would be deprived of some great music if these artists didn’t stand up to the suits

[@ProfessorofRock]

RIght? Just get out of the way!

[@justinskullhead]

@@ProfessorofRock exactly...just release the darn music and let US decide, apparently you don't know what you're talking about 🤔

[@VeteranofthePsychicWars]

And there are just as many examples of the suits pushing some song the band didn’t really care for.

[@justinskullhead]

@@fredgroenke2586 could you imagine living life without hearing Groovin' or Bohemian Rhapsody??? Ugh...no way

[@lucasroth7922]

Dang! Bringing a tear to my eyes. I was 7, 8 years old growing up on long island and hearing the music of the rascals and lovin' spoonful etc we had so much fun just Groovin'!!🔥🤘

[@ericbgordon1575]

The one that I'd be looking forward to hearing about is "A Beautiful Morning". Listening to the segment of your interview with Felix, what popped in my head is something that my mentor told me about shortly after I met him in 1999. He told me that the Rascals did not have a bass player full time and that Felix held down the low end from the Hammond Organ console. That was almost like a harbinger of the Doors. This one time when I was at a church where my mentor occasionally played pipe organ, I was trying to pick out an arrangement of "Good Lovin'" on the Hammond Organ they had off to the side of the sanctuary. The pitfall is that I did not practice often enough when I should have, especially when I ended up acquiring my own Hammond Organ for about 10 and a half years. Additionally, "Groovin'" was the title song for this cabaret presentation that I participated in here in New York City during 2013 called Groovin on a Sunday Afternoon.

[@ProfessorofRock]

THanks Eric!

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

I love Beautiful Morning.

[@stephenbrown4211]

Groovin is one of my go to summer songs

[@peterflynn2111]

Being in Australia it was Winter when it was released so a Winter tune in memory

[@brettkoranda3922]

I was lucky enough to see Felix and the Rascals a few years back. What a completely top-notch show! Felix's vibe truly gave people my age and younger experience a glimpse of those days.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

Where at?

[@57WillysCJ]

Grooving is like a afternoon picnic in a large park. A Beautiful Morning is another that has sounds you don't expect. People Got to Be Free was popular for many years. The thing about their music was it didn't bother older generations at the time.

[@ProfessorofRock]

Amen!

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

True!

[@CaptainCraigKWMRZ]

...like a Sunday afternoon.

[@michaelrochester48]

I’m from Rochester, New York where Gene Cornish the guitarist is from…He just recently celebrated his 80th birthday!

[@bobnpcola]

Groovin’ and It’s a beautiful Morning are 2 of my Sunday “chill” playlist, Groovin reminds me of riding my Cruising bike along the coast

[@ProfessorofRock]

Rock on!

[@duromusabc]

Awesome song for cruising in the car in today’s beautiful sunny day 79 to 83 degrees Fahrenheit all day today- dry heat - soothing !

[@justinskullhead]

I'm in Florida, we're more melting on a sunny afternoon

[@LazyIRanch]

I'm in SoCal, and the weather is perfect today. Good day for Groovin' to the Rascals! When I was a child, I thought they were singing, "Life could be ecstasy, you and me and Lassie!" 😂🐕 As a kid, romping in the park with a happy, fluffy collie dog sounded like perfection to me. It still does. My border collie, Joey, is snoozing at my feet right now so I think any day is good for groovin' with my BFF (best furry friend).😉

[@LaManteca76]

TX here. Lol, I just got up & I'm already sweating. The humidity...🤠🌞😅

[@ProfessorofRock]

@@justinskullhead Ha ha!

[@ProfessorofRock]

Such imagery!

[@wisdomhunter3797]

Great episode! What a coup getting that interview. AND it turned out he was a really humble and gracious musician. Soundtrack of our lives, that is!

[@LaManteca76]

Great song! For me its relaxing on a hot summer sunday & getting an ice cream cone at Dairy Queen. Another favorite song by the Rascals is "How Can I Be Sure." I would like Prof to cover that song please. 🌞🍦😄

[@ProfessorofRock]

Yes!

[@stephenhanft1226]

That's also my favorite Rascals song and requested the Professor to cover it, too.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

I get slushies from DQ!

[@LaManteca76]

@@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980 😋

[@duromusabc]

This song reminds me of Crystal Blue Persuasion in terms of its soothing vibes - also the song Poor Side Of Town by Johnny Rivers

[@MarkJones-zg6si]

I LOVE this! What a great summertime hit which was released April 10, 1967! I heard it countless times on WOWO during my years growing up! WOWO was a 50,000 watt AM powerhouse in Fort Wayne, Indiana❤️

[@ProfessorofRock]

Thanks for listening

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

It was a radio station!

[@robertb186]

Enjoyed this interview. Classic song with memories for all.

[@joannfalcon6423]

O my goodness, I love love LOVE this band! I'm so excited about this interview ❤ it was my absolute favorite. As I listen, I hear my childhood. And this interview is great! Making the song even better❤

[@ProfessorofRock]

Awesome!

[@isolde1802]

In the day , the drummer, Dino Danelli , was a dead ringer for Paul McCartney. Always loved this band. My favorite song of theirs was How Can I Be Sure.

[@FreddyKurganNimmo]

Yeah!👍 My Mom knew them when they were The Young Rascals back in New Jersey. Went to a crap-ton of their shows. Almost a groupie😮

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

She was definitely a fan!

[@mapo69]

My girlfriend and I really like "How can I be sure". It's one great romantic love song of all time. We also love to start our day by listening to "A beautiful morning". It's a song that just give's a big smile on our faces while getting ready for a new day ! Cheers from Montreal Canada Adam ! I never miss your videos. Keep up the good work !

[@johnfrench2466]

Adam Thanks for covering the Rascals. Dino (their drummer) was huge influence to drummers at the time.

[@kathyjaissle6791]

Boy did this take me back!!! I was a young teenager in the late sixties and I remember the feeling this song gave me. Just carefree, happy-go-lucky, feel good vibes! Love this song. I also LOVED their song, Good Lovin’ !!! To this day, when this song comes on the radio, I crank it way up!!!!

[@ProfessorofRock]

Awesome!

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

It’s just an uplifting song.

[@jennyjenny4501]

Professor, you should do a top ten songs countdown for cruising! This song would definitely be near the top of the list!

[@ProfessorofRock]

Great idea!

[@istankimjong-unbutcantstan3398]

This song would be a shoo-in for a cruising song. The title could have easily been "Cruisin'", and I was thinking that before Adam mentioned the part about Smokey being inspired to write "Cruisin'". Now I am getting scared if someone has been bugging my thoughts..... I should actually be scared for _them_ more than me.... hee hee. Maybe it's just a "great minds think alike" thing. I just don't think I'm so great.

[@Code.Name.V]

What a great song... It sounds like a fusion of 60's, Motown, and Yacht Rock styles.

[@ProfessorofRock]

Great observation! I think it's one of the first Yacht rock songs!

[@MetFan37]

@@ProfessorofRock I hate the term "yacht rock". I think it's derogatory to the music. The term conjures up images of music played while rich people are served by butlers on their private boats - and the music itself is nothing like that.

[@istankimjong-unbutcantstan3398]

@@MetFan37 I don't see why. It's also been called "Soft Rock" or "Easy Rock". Now if it's called "Elevator Music"................... Oh, okay I missed the latter part, but not everyone who has a yacht does that. I don't consider this to be "Yacht Rock" or even Rock. Definitely sounds more R&B/Soul. I'd even call it "Low Rider" music as that community most definitely has made it one of their anthems.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

It has that soul punch.

[@brucejones1867]

Another home run, Adam! Felix and his music are timeless classics that take me back to my youth. A simple time of great music. Thanks for sharing this with us.

[@ProfessorofRock]

Glad you enjoyed it! What's your fave Rascals song?

[@brucejones1867]

@@ProfessorofRock , they've got a lot of really cool songs. Groovin' is definitely up there, along with How Can I Be Sure, People Got to Be Free, Good Lovin' and Carry Me Back, which is a great piece of Soul music.

[@daleandlori]

Great interview and era music!! These guys with the Turtles, Tommy James and the Shoundels, the Guess Who hits, the Four Seasons where cranking out hit after hit surrounded by all this wonderful music back in those early days! What a decade of musical discovery and creativity! Have to tip my hat to that time!

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

All great artists.

[@surlechapeau]

Great interview!! Quite the comment from Otis Redding ! 60s music is great, but I gotta give the edge to 70s music.

[@ProfessorofRock]

Gotcha! Both decades are great.

[@fredgroenke2586]

True, but you don’t get the 70’s without the 60’s!

[@stephenhanft1226]

I would personally describe them like this: The 60's is the best decade While the 70's is my favorite decades.

[@snoops5581]

This is one of my favorite songs from the 1960’s. It’s still on my daily playlist. Some songs stand the test of time & every time you hear it,it stops you in your tracks. Thanks Felix ♥️ Btw you look great!

[@rmelin13231]

LOVE Felix, Eddie, Dino, David, and their music! Class guy to give you this interview. I still think Dino was among the very best drummers of the era. And the band is a huge part of my teenage years, like many others. Thanks for this, it was a real joy to watch.

[@bookjeannie]

I was 13, Mama bought a transistor for me. She had music on all the time. I thank her & why music is my first love. I thank her every day. Love & miss her. 🎼💙

[@harrycornelius8386]

I love my 80's and 90's playlists, but anyone who is a fan will agree that the 60's were something special musically, culturally; everything!

[@ProfessorofRock]

FOR SURE!

[@michaelharrington75]

The 60's were legendary. The so called "silent generation" really had something to say. They pioneered Rock n Roll.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

My favorite song is from the 60s! God Only Knows.

[@AnnaTrail-xp8pr]

Everybody's working for the weekend and some of us work the weekend! I didn't know this song didn't have drums. I love how smooth and relaxing this song is, one can say it is grooving.

[@ProfessorofRock]

Rock on! Anna!

[@stevehilliard1495]

@@ProfessorofRockthe video shows conga 🪘

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

I thought it had light percussion in the background.

[@waynevia6976]

Grooving I love that song. Nothing better than grooving on a Sunday afternoon. The young rascals a great group in my opinion.

[@vcv6560]

You're touching my history today sir, my first album bought with money from my 7th birthday party. Fav song: You Better Run, which as covered by Pat Benatar is MTV's 2nd broadcast video. There's my contribution to Prod of Rock show trivia!

[@ProfessorofRock]

Very cool!

[@ethanaleman]

I learn something new with each of your videos dude.

[@peterottes6900]

You just kill these interviews! I always enjoy your videos. I've been a lover of music since I was a boy and you're revealing new things I never knew all the time and your presentation is top shelf. You draw me in all the time. 👍

[@DC8091]

the (Young) Rascals fing rule!!! Great interview Prof!! Groovin just defines day drinkin, particularly on Sunday but applies to any day of the week 🤘🍻🥃

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

Haha! Or relaxing.

[@DC8091]

@@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980 little column A, little column Bb😁

[@mikamamma]

I actually met Felix when I was 16 years old at studio 54 in New York City. He definitely was NOT "groovin'" with that scene, haha. He was holed up upstairs not wanting any part of what was going on down below. I sat down for a breather, on the couch next to him, not recognizing who he was, and we just started talking. He eventually told me he was in a band. I asked him the name and he looked down, giving a long wistful gaze at the disco crowd below, then back up at me in my 16 year old satin clad body and said, "you wouldn't know. You're too young to know" He seemed so sad so I continued talking with him, (also because I thought he was cute;) When I was ready to boogie back to the dance floor, I got up to go, and he introduced himself. I almost fell back on my seat when he said he was Felix Cavaliere ! I absolutely ADORED The Rascals and was dying inside but tried to contain my excitement and be cool and somehow mustered being able to instead give him a sly smile and say, "why you rascal" He laughed and was shocked, I not only knew the band he was from but also his name. His whole demeanor changed after that like I restored his faith that there was hope for the future and that the "good" music will never die. Great night.

[@thetitleisours1]

Wow. Impressed that they had people doing those birds!

[@AnnaTrail-xp8pr]

Talent pure talent

[@thetitleisours1]

@@AnnaTrail-xp8pr Absolutely :)

[@paulburr5072]

I grew up listing to the Rascals. Great Band

[@Sweet--Richard.4981]

Felix, what a cool name! The only other rocker I know with that name was Felix Pappalardi 😅

[@philbouchard9481]

Felix Hanemann - Zebra

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

That’s a popular cat name I feel like

[@philiptuminelli1278]

Saw Felix and the Rascals this past Saturday in Woonsocket RI. Fun show!

[@ProfessorofRock]

Rock on!

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

Awesome! How was it?

[@scottburton9701]

"Groovin" is an all-time classic-Can't believe the executives at Atlantic Records believed it was a commercial stiff.

[@ProfessorofRock]

Right?

[@MetFan37]

@@ProfessorofRock Sometimes something is so different, and they've never experienced it, that they don't know what to do. That's what happened here. Wexler didn't not like the song, he was afraid of it "being a stiff". Thank goodness Murray the K stepped in. He was a person whose taste Wexler could trust.

[@istankimjong-unbutcantstan3398]

They were a little to stiff for this song

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

It’s shameful.

[@brentcox7772]

Such a cool band! Love the interview Professor!🤘🔥

[@thetitleisours1]

Love this song. One of my favorites growing up. I really like the version by Paul Carrack too. He did a great job.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

I have to listen to Paul’s version.

[@thetitleisours1]

@@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980 I hope you like it too! :)

[@lonedrone]

What a great interview! Love the info about the local competition with Lovin' Spoonful and the latin/cuban connection.

[@Whytemonkee]

Record Executives don't get it and never will. It's like WMG pulling all its music off of TikTok, cause they don't understand Exposing 100's of millions to music they may have never heard

[@ProfessorofRock]

Indeed.

[@MetFan37]

@@ProfessorofRock Music executives may have experience in selling songs, but you can't EVER predict what the public will go for. Are you listening, Clive???

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

I was so mad when they did that.

[@jamescaron6465]

They were great singers songwriters and musicians. I just saw them on an old Ed Sullivan clip and they were spot on. I forgot just how good they were. Groovin was the perfect song for a Sunday afternoon it was so light and feathery. Adding drums would’ve just made it much too heavy. Sunday afternoons are sometimes the only times the rest of us have as well. That’s why I guess it connects so well. They really had some beautiful songs. You need to bring him back. There’s another 2-3 hours worth of KZbin goodness you could produce.

[@constipatedinsincity4424]

Circle around the eye 👁!😁

[@kenuyeno]

The Rascals had a very special relationship with Hawaii. The young people at that time loved them as much as the Beatles. In fact, they wrote a love song for us called “My Hawaii”. It was so beloved by everyone here that there was talk for a little while to replace our State song for it. Eddie Brigati’s singing is so heartfelt that it just brings chills to heart whenever I hear it. I hope you look it up and share it with your audience.

[@Jack-j3l7o]

"Groovin'", "Good Lovin'", The Lovin Spoonful's "Daydream" and "Summer in the City" and The Turtle's "Happy Together" are the ambrosia of those magical sunny days when I was ten or 12 years old. Before Led Zeppelin conquered all. I want to thank Professor of Rock for solving one of the great mysteries of my life. I'd always heard the lyric "That would be ecstasy, you and me and Leslie"...and every one of the ten thousand times I've heard the song I wondered "who the hell is Leslie?" and what it implied. Now I know it's "endlessly". THANK YOU, PROFESSOR. I can die in peace now.

[@SHARKVADERS]

P O R !!!!!

[@josephblue4135]

"Groovin'" was released as a single on April 10, 1967 in time to kick off the Summer Of Love. I remember this song growing up. I was in middle school.

[@ProfessorofRock]

THanks!

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

Great timing and great song

[@constipatedinsincity4424]

Back in the Saddle Again Naturally

[@susanmurray7654]

I'm BAAAAAACK

[@shiroibasketshoes]

Not back in the New York groove but in the Vegas groove?

[@constipatedinsincity4424]

@@shiroibasketshoes I'm Back in Black

[@justinskullhead]

Whoopi-ty-aye-oh

[@Whisper_292]

Morning!

[@mjemigh3304]

Just a few weeks ago, I read Gene's book and Felix's book back-to-back. It's quite interesting to see The Rascals' story from two sets of memories which aren't always in line with each other. In any case, they were one of the best bands of the era and Felix still does an excellent show.

[@ProfessorofRock]

Seems like that's what it was like in every group!

[@stephenhanft1226]

Love The Rascals. They are definitely one of my favorite 60's bands. "Groovin"" is a great, classic song. When I think of relaxing Summer songs, "Groovin'" is one of the first that comes to mind. In such a short period of time, they wrote and recorded a catalog of great songs. I always enjoy when you cover them. Here are my answers to your 2 questions: Yes, I think the 60's is the greatest music decade (While the 70's is my favorite) and "How Can I Be Sure" is my favorite Rascals song and the song from them I'd like for you to cover next. I also would love for you to cover my favorite New Jersey (my home state) band from the 60's that also competed with The Beatles (led The British Invasion of the 60's) and The Beach Boys (represented the West Coast Sound of the 60's). That would be Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons They represented the East Coast sound of the 60's. Very important group. Frankie just turned 90 and is still performing.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

Frankie is 90 years old and still looks amazing! I am wishing the best for him.

[@MyName-pl7zn]

This song will take you to the best sunny summer Sunday afternoon you have ever seen every time you listen! That latin, soulful groove is out of this world. Fantastic interview with Felix Cavaliere always a fun loving energetic man with a great personality and memory. Now I have to go and look up Chuck Rainey because I love that bass. Fantastic episode, loved every minute

[@ProfessorofRock]

Thanks My Name. Have to agree!

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

I had a busy Sunday afternoon this past Sunday but maybe I will have a more relaxed Sunday afternoon this next Sunday.

[@MyName-pl7zn]

@@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980 play this song next Sunday afternoon Lilly!!

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

@@MyName-pl7zn okay I will! With a nice cup of ice cream.

[@Labrabulls]

For me, this is one of those songs that I could skip at first, & not because it don't enjoy it, but because it doesn't have that instant "thing" that grabs you; again, for me. But after a couple seconds in the spell of its vibe falls over you & takes you right to that groovin Sunday afternoon we all long to be in & you're hooked. Truly is a sonic journey to a groovin, beautiful, chill place where everything is right in the world.

[@ProfessorofRock]

Thanks.

[@ROSALIECALIENDO]

Thanks Felix for the wonderful music and memories of our younger years❤

[@jean-philippeperetti8463]

Man, you did again, bringing me back to my radio years. I used to play these guys often. And what a great interview with Felix Cavaliere. Very nice and humble gentleman. With a name like Cavaliere, I wonder if he has French Canadian ancestry. I'd love to ask him.

[@Swooop9530]

Love your channel Adam. It’s wonderful hearing the stories behind the music from those who created it, and also hearing your thoughts. Great, great stuff. Thank you. “Those days were so innocently great.” I love that comment. All should have such days.

[@randytessman6750]

You know a song is epic when its been a couple decade that you can hear it on an elevator.....lol Also know that your real old because you know it :)

[@ProfessorofRock]

Ha ha!

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

Indeed!

[@Joliepinkyswear1]

Another amazing interview. He was so refreshing and appreciative of every part of his career. I love this feel good song.

[@joecastro6721]

Whenever I think about the summers of my youth in Southern California, this song pops in my head. Me and my brother playing on the Slip N Slide, my dad barbecuing burgers and hot dogs on the grill. Great times.

[@markjones2887]

Love this song! I'm 71, and I never had a Rascals album. BUT, I've caught myself singing Groovin over the years because it's such an iconic song. Great interview. Now I'm gonna go download "Groovin".

[@musclecarmitch908]

Awesome episode Professor! Love the Rascals! Great story! I couldn't imagine life without Grooving, it was always a great relaxing song to kick back too!👍

[@ProfessorofRock]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@chuck62891]

When i hear this song it reminds me of a sunny weekend when my friends and I would go out and ride our bikes and have fun. This is before driving, working and the other activities that teenagers get to do. A 13 or 14 year old, as I was then, is close to the older things and knew they were on the horizon, but could still enjoy a day at the park in the sunshine. I have loved this group since they started. Great!

[@nohandle1028]

OMG I love this song! Everytime I hear it, I feel like I'm being transported to some faraway, mystical place where I haven't got a care in the world! It truly is a magical song!

[@BuffaloBeatle]

Professor of Rock, Joey Dee so pivotal in bringing this group together amongst so many others. I feel he should get an episode or an interview which he still loves to do!

[@ProfessorofRock]

For sure!

[@stephenhanft1226]

Yes, Joey Dee and the Starlighters were also responsible for The Peppermint Twist.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

That same guy who did the Peppermint Twist!

[@brettcreech3490]

Great music. And I love the back stories.😎

[@ProfessorofRock]

Thanks for listening

[@aprilrich807]

Great memories of my parents playing music like this. And what a wonderful man this singer is!!

[@ProfessorofRock]

He's so great!

[@hesavedawretchlikeme6902]

The Rascals still stand the test of time. Great singing, lyrics, and music. Blue eyed rock and soul indeed.

[@borisblvd5354]

"That will be ecstasy, You and Me and Leslie"...Great lyrics!!!

[@ProfessorofRock]

Huh?

[@borisblvd5354]

@@ProfessorofRock One of those lyrics that was often misunderstood.."endlessly", or "and Leslie" hahah

[@rebeccamcvey8600]

Yes, I heard that wrong in the beginning too.

[@tallogden1732]

I think "Lonely too Long" is a very underrated banger. "How Can I Be Sure" is also a favorite and sounds like nothing else. What a great band!

[@shiroibasketshoes]

"Groovin'" is an excellent song; not every song has to have drums. Listeners sometimes think being different can be good. Wexler did great work elsewhere, but too bad he didn't realize right away about "Groovin'" being an important single several after "Good Lovin'" to show diversity.

[@ProfessorofRock]

For sure.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

It’s a song that is so universally loved that you forget it didn’t have drums. Kinda like When Doves Cru having no bass!

[@shiroibasketshoes]

@@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980 Yes and it's only now I'm thinking "Oh yeah, I guess I don't actually hear bass in 'When Doves Cry.'"

[@eriksonofander]

Great interview

[@ProfessorofRock]

Thanks! Isn't Felix great?

[@eriksonofander]

@@ProfessorofRock I could listen to him for hours.

[@elaineh7993]

Only the lonley hearts see is my favorite song by Felix! What a great talent!

[@ProfessorofRock]

Great song! Love it.

[@BartG87-]

Oh man ? I was feeling like your intro was directed straight at me ! Lol My first car was a rusty old '76 Nova . It was a $250 car ? But , i had around $300 in my stereo system ! That was 1986 so , it was a heckuva set-up back then . ❤

[@catloverextreme]

THANK YOU! This is one of my favorite songs of all time. Used to listen to it on the way to high school in the 90's every morning with my best friend. Such a happy warm vibe.

[@rockandroll0123]

AS much as i love the Beatles or a majority of 60s bands Groovin is my favorite 60s song hands down reminds me of going places with my dad . He always played this song when we went somewhere

[@ProfessorofRock]

Thanks!

[@larrysmith5249]

This song takes me back to 1967. Killer year for music. I also love How Can I Be Sure. A Girl Like You, and It’s a Beautiful Morning, among others.

[@yvettevitacaponigro]

Thank you for the post! 🤘🏻✌🏼😊

[@DeeVet1]

I’m blessed to have known Eddie and David Brigati since Eddie was eight years old. I even dated David in High School. I still hear from David from time to time. Interestingly enough, when I was vacationing in Aruba, a young bartender who worked at the resort was from Liverpool. I asked him how nice it must be to be from a city that birthed the Beatles. He laughed and said that in Liverpool it wasn’t the Beatles everyone listened to, it was The Rascals. He was very impressed when I told him about my history with the Brigatis. Lots of questions and free drinks followed. Thanks, boys. Love you both!

[@themightysquid]

“Groovin” brings me back to my sunny, springtime days as a kid in Brooklyn. The sound and memory is so soothing in a way of an innocent time past. Professor, you’ve done it again with another great interview and wonderful memory.

[@Nafemrotlem]

Wow! Another great episode. When I was a little kid listening to Groovin’, I always wondered who Leslie was. It wasn’t until years later that I learned it was “you and me, endlessly” not “you and me and Leslie “. The Rascals have always been my favorite group. Seeing them on Broadway a decade ago was one of my most memorable theater-going experiences. Hearing the audience respond to Eddie Brigati’s virtuoso performance on “How Can I Be Sure” was goosebump inducing.

[@pcno2832]

I remember being about 5 and a half and we had just moved to an almost-new house. Just by chance, I took out a clock radio that my parents had gotten as a wedding present, but never used. There was this Boston station right between the triangular CONNELRAD marker and the 70 on the dial and out came all these sounds I had barely heard before, with records like "Groovin", "I think we're alone now.", "A Little Bit Me, A Little Bit You", "For What It's Worth", "Penny Lane" and "Western Union" all on the chart at once. It might not have been the greatest time to be draft age, but it was the perfect time to be hearing pop music for the first time. The Young Rascals were one of the groups that made that decade so magical. It will never be quite like that again.