He Sold 100 Million Records…But Didn’t MAKE a DIME cuz the MOB STOLE His Royalties-Professor of Rock

[@ProfessorofRock]

Poll: What is your pick for the COOLEST BASS LINE from a song released in the Rock era? Also, use my code PROFESSOROFROCK to get $5 off your delicious, high protein Magic Spoon cereal by clicking this link: sponsr.is/magicspoon_professorofrock_0524

[@Code.Name.V]

Spacehog - In The Meantime

[@catherine6653]

Come Together, The Beatles

[@Lam_3-22-23]

Papa was a Rolling Stone Dreams

[@Sweet--Richard.4981]

Roundabout the late great Chris Squire aka The Fish

[@christineml1476]

Lou Reed "Walk on the Wild Side"

[@alanarakelian5021]

IMO, Tommy James & The Shondells' "Crystal Blue Persuasion" could not be a more perfect song. Pure genius.

[@ProfessorofRock]

I agree!

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

A classic on a sunny day.

[@Au60schild]

Yup.

[@istankimjong-unbutcantstan3398]

CBP is the song I know TJ by!

[@odinsson204]

The wife’s and I favorite song is Draggin’ the Line.

[@Digits-nf9fo]

In the early 80's at the Channel in Boston, I saw him, sought his autograph. I got my pen jostled from my hand while he was walking past me in the crowd. TJ stopped, pointed to the pen on the ground, and signed a promo poster for me. I got it to this day...tY TJ for being gracious all these years.

[@ProfessorofRock]

So cool!

[@monicamad1285]

Loved the Channel, battle of the bands with BCN 🔥

[@Digits-nf9fo]

@@monicamad1285 been a while, but wbcn was 104.1, right?

[@monicamad1285]

@@Digits-nf9fo yes!! They've been off the air for a while now. I said off the air 🤣🤣 I'm showing my age 😂

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

Such a nice man.

[@S2NAZ]

What a great interview with Tommy James 👍🏻 Being 70 years old, that was my youth. Thank so much ❤

[@ProfessorofRock]

Thanks for watching!

[@josephblue4135]

Me too. I'm a 70-year-old too. I loved all his hits!

[@Hwashburn]

Yet another 70- year-old here. I like "Draggin' the Line" well enough, but "Crystal Blue Persuasion" is on my personal Top 5 List as one of the greatest pop-rock songs of all time. And "Tighter and Tighter" ( or "Just a Little Bit Tighter") is on my personal Top 5 List as one of the most criminally underrated pop-rock songs of all time.

[@Bigfield47]

Draggen the line works. People dance and sing along.

[@raymondblanton9749]

As a sixty eight year old boomer I can honestly say Tommy and the Shondells were a really fun part of the backing track of my life. I so happy that in this short bit of the interview he seems happy and content. Take care all.

[@juliusfrauenglass2411]

Me too , for all the great songs he did for us he deserves peace of mind.

[@ramosel]

As a kid with older siblings who were teens... I got to hear a lot of music in the 60s. Crimson and Clover was the first record (45) I ever bought with my own money. I still have it.

[@ProfessorofRock]

Very cool!

[@kellymac1212]

Same! But, mine were cousins... I said my entire youth that I was the only kid in 1st grade that knew every word to every song by Tommy James and the Shondells. Literally picked THIS band as my example! I did! To their music, and sooooo many others. Such a lucky girl 🥰

[@marktait2371]

i found the 45 roulette at neighbors moving sale think.draggin is the a side surpised record is g.c. same friends older bros. were 7 and 9 years older than us had the killer 8 tracks and vinlys 60d 70s

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

Awesome!

[@edryba4867]

The retreaded “Draggin’ The Line” is a GREAT record, and so is this video! I was happy to find it. And that “baby back ribs” jingle is ABSOLUTELY A RIPOFF OF DRAGGIN’ THE LINE!

[@sarah2.017]

I used to work with a man who said that Tommy James, who later became a Christian, spoke at his church. James said that later in life, he realized that he should be glad he didn't get that money, because he wasn't old enough to handle it and it would have ruined his life, if not outright killed him.

[@MM180.9]

Shondell is phonetic French for candle, chandelle

[@polarlab113]

Is that a Joke or are you just speculating

[@tomdulle1707]

"Draggin' the line" is such a good song I still remember hearing it on the radio, as far back as 1972, I believe.

[@windmechanic]

It was my FIRST favorite song!! I still enjoy it to this day, albeit well over a half century ago. This interview, in a way, makes things full circle.

[@huntingadventures1172]

How could you have lived through the late sixties and seventies and not remember Tommy. man I’m talking great songs that just brings the good times back

[@denisearmbruster7478]

Great interview with Tommy! WOW! I was a teenager then and had no idea about the mob!! That blew me away!! Thank you and to Tommy....."still love ya dude!!!"

[@ProfessorofRock]

Glad you enjoyed it

[@tammylewis2408]

Tommy released a book titled, Me, the Mob and the Music, which tells about Morris Levy, who headed Roulette Records, and his mob ties and how Tommy was caught in the middle. Get the book, great read.

[@taddyd1]

They did not have 25 gold singles nor 9 platinum lps.

[@FERNANDOGONZALEZ-pb6re]

When I was an O.T.R. truck driver,this song would amp me up every morning, every time I needed a boost to get my day started. Love the jam, love Tommy.

[@aceautonewportky]

So glad to see Tommy, and that he is still alive and well. I have always been a fan of Tommy James and the Shondells. At 63 I grew up on all the great music of that era, later massively dug the alternative/punk rock era. I was so very lucky, the rich education of so much great music.

[@lhart99]

IMHO, Tommy James is so underrated and overlooked. The 1960s was such a jam-packed decade decade for music. I feel people my age and younger often overlook Tommy James & The Shondell. As a teenager in the 1990s, I was fortunate enough to have 3 of the best friends I could ever hope for. We couldn't get enough of Tommy James & The Shondell and '60s music in general. My friends and I expanded our love of classic acts from the 1970s and beyond, but it all started with Tommy James & The Shondell.

[@rejeandurette3471]

Underrated and overlooked? I don't think those words apply to an artist that sold over 100 million

[@beenaplumber8379]

@@rejeandurette3471 Those words mean "I never realized he was so awesome." Nearly every time someone says that on You Tube I think that's what they really mean.

[@MultiPetercool]

Tommy played a gig at my High School auditorium around ‘75. Screaming Jay Hawkins opened for him.

[@ProfessorofRock]

Wow! What a memory!

[@MultiPetercool]

@@ProfessorofRock none of us had ever heard of Screaming Jay before. I was the only exception because my parents had a 45 of I put a spell on you.

[@oldmaninshorts1]

Wow, that must have been something.

[@LSUOdyssey]

Those were the days

[@doncoyer7943]

My little sister used to squeal on me when I was a 12 year old if I Think we’re Alone Now came on. “Don’s listening to that song again!!” As if you could get away from it. She was afraid I’d impregnate the whole state or something. Even at age 12 and younger, without realizing what I was doing, I was studying the music around me. Not knowing why. I loved the bass or guitar sound. I didn’t play yet but I had to ponder why it sounded that way. The dynamics in that song profoundly impacted me. And it made me happy. Thanks, Tommy.

[@vanatic22]

Being a 62 y.o. boomer, Tommy James & The Shondells didn't come across my music radar until later in life. I was too young to pay attention to them when they were in the spotlight and when I got older and discovered music it was Pink Floyd, Steve Miller, Rush, Fleetwood Mac, etc. As I've gotten older, I've enjoyed 'discovering new old music' from back then. Tommy James certainly wrote and performed some outstanding songs!

[@Sweet--Richard.4981]

The Psychedelic ' Crimson and Clover ' had a profound impact on the neuro wiring of my young brain 🧠

[@ProfessorofRock]

Very cool. Such a groovy song.

[@humboldthammer]

Over and over i.e. practice makes perfect

[@cannonball666]

I like the Joan Jett cover better. It's not as hippie dippy trippy.

[@marktait2371]

​@@cannonball666same concrete blonde also is on a charity comp.performed live club also

[@AuntieRanna]

My older cousins had a “crash pad” in their parent’s basement, complete with black light posters & bean bag chairs. Crimson & Clover was the soundtrack of that room. The quintessential psychedelic song & experience.

[@badgerpa9]

I worked a few years as a telecom lineman and I dragged in a few lines, but never put the song with it. Climbing on a frozen pole will turn you against the job. Glad Tommy was able to get his farm and live there to recover. Glad he never had the mob actually attack him.

[@beenaplumber8379]

My ex wife was a telecom engineer in TN when we met in the late 80s, and she said the people who dragged the lines were called jug hustlers. Does that sound right?

[@therottenrandy]

I worked as a lineman in Alberta until I was 25. Never put this song to the job either. -25C at the top of a pole....same job at every pole, I was cold and bored. Decided I wanted an "inside that wasn't the same every day" job and went off to university to become a teacher.

[@badgerpa9]

@@beenaplumber8379 Never heard that but I was not in Tennessee, everything had a different nick name for every different Bell and GTE territory. We often buried the last part and some that did that the most would be called digger. About the only tool I heard called the same was the nines, seemed it was almost always called the nines.

[@michaelrider4234]

I Love Tommy James and the Shondells. I listened to them when I was a kid and am now 66 years old and I love listening to them more than ever. thank you for the great presentation.

[@georgeford6439]

Child of the 70s here (born in 63). So I remember "dragging the line." And of course, during the 80s, I rediscovered his earlier hits/remakes from Billy Idol, Bananarama, and even reluctantly Tiffany, etc. Just wow, on the baby back ribs, I thought that was going to be the jingle just before ya mentioned it!!! The record industry is so corrupt, and it's amazing how many artists still have not been fully paid for their royalties......

[@metalone2055]

Went to see Tommy James and The Shondells at their show at the Medina Entertainment Center, Medina, MN. Great show!!!! Vocals and Instruments were spot on Perfect!!!! Draggin the Line is one of my all-time favorite tunes. Tommy, Thank you for the come back tour!!!!

[@earllince5418]

Why is this man not in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame...he is a musical genuis and a great person...love his Sirius show..!

[@MARKCANEER]

Being a great person and a God fearing man is why he isn't in the RRHOF.

[@earllince5418]

@@MARKCANEER All that aside Tommy has made an incredible contribution to Rock and Roll. You look at some of the two hit bands that are in there and no Tommy James. They have no credibility...!

[@itsajahthing]

Tommy James was definitely a 'Blue Persuasion'...

[@hotinthecitytonight5180]

Dragging the line my favorite from Tommy James and still sounds great today hes a true pioneer in music should be in rock and roll hall of fame no question

[@DavidFleming-st4vg]

I totally agree...

[@hartleycwhite]

I still have a few Tommy James and The Shondells lps. My favourite being 'Crimson and Clover'. Thanks for your great programs.

[@mournblade1066]

Holy hell! Tommy Shondell had far more amazing songs than I ever knew! Great stuff!

[@ProfessorofRock]

He's a hitmaker for sure!

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

Feels great to be a Shondell, huh?

[@leonardshevlin7260]

His name is Jackson.

[@barrywinslow9798]

I've known Tommy for decades. We did our first tour with him, and Sam the Sham back in 67. We both cut in Allegro Studio's in NY....and man can I relate to getting the "dry shaft" from Laurie Records and our producer. Anyway, Tommy is an awesome talent and all around good guy. He's doing much better now with the book and gigis. Love the guy. Thanks for doing a story on him. God bless ya

[@chrisvickers7928]

You guys made some good quirky music I enjoyed as a teenager.

[@kcash6359]

The Red Baron showed compassion to Snoopy at Christmas. Combining warmth with cool ain't easy, but you did it. "Snoopy Let's Wait". Thanks for posting...and everything else from my youth.

[@cheryal2809]

@@kcash6359 wow! I had that 45, Snoopy and the Red Baron at Christmas. 🎼 "And good willlll to maa aaa aaa aaaaaaann."🎵🎶

[@barrywinslow9798]

@@cheryal2809 Thanks for all the kind words folks.....it's appreciated deeply. Yep, still love that dog. God bless ya'll

[@michaelrochester48]

The interesting thing about Tommy James is that his moniker Tommy James and the Shondells sounds like a throwback to a 50s group. However, he was playing the most freak out psychedelic music of the late 60s.

[@ProfessorofRock]

Good point. What's your favorite song by him Michael?

[@michaelrochester48]

@@ProfessorofRock ball of fire, and his solo hit, dragging the line

[@dianewilliams1125]

I totally agree. I always wondered about that name,just didn't fit with the type of music they played. I was born in 1957 and TJ was a big part of my music history! ❤❤❤

[@wilhelmhagberg4897]

Is it that psychedelic though? The music has a certain hypnotic, loopy quality, but it’s pretty far from the more far out crazy music of other acts in 67/68.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

It’s ironic and I love it!

[@Texeq]

In 1969 Crimson & Clover was part of a 'Now Sounds' in-flight program I was listening to on head phones in a DC-8. It blew my mind so I bought the single, and the album, and became a #1 Tommy James fan. From 1969 to 71 when Draggin The Line went up the Top 40 I probably listened to TJ albums more than I did the Beatles. Christian Of The World is still a favorite.

[@christineml1476]

I'm not the biggest fan of covers, but R.E.M.'s version of "Draggin' the Line" really captures the Tommy James essence perfectly.

[@ProfessorofRock]

Agreed. I love them!

[@marktait2371]

yes that was a bside of a singles comp.i had

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

That’s a damn good cover!

[@slipperyslope2669]

You always ask what our memory of hearing a song for the first time. I heard this song for the first time yesterday driving around listening to a 60s station because of Professor of Rock. I caught the tree hugging line and wondered if it was the first use of the saying. You are keeping the exploration of music alive. Thank you!

[@danielmarmer679]

I saw Tommy James perform last year in Royal Oak, MI. Incredible!

[@ProfessorofRock]

What did he open and close with? Just curious!

[@danielmarmer679]

@@ProfessorofRock He opened with "Draggin' The Line". His encore was "Mirage" with a "Mony Mony" reprise.

[@ProfessorofRock]

@@danielmarmer679 Awesome!

[@AnnaTrail-xp8pr]

Thank God these artists are still touring, but they are getting up there in age and unfortunately not much out there to replace them. Glad to enjoy it!

[@Old_SIlver_Dollar]

My wife and I got to see Tommy James about 3 weeks ago in Lancaster PA. It was one of the best concerts I've ever seen in my life and I'm almost 70. All I can say is thank you very much Tommy James and if you come back I will be there too God willing.

[@dsanchez9703]

Congrats on the 1 million Subs Professor, you deserve it for your hard work brother.🙌👏🙏

[@ProfessorofRock]

Thanks a million!

[@dsanchez9703]

@@ProfessorofRock 😁, 💯!

[@heidichristensen7919]

This is why I love your channel Adam. I was in elementary school in the late 60s, early 70s and loved Tommy and the Shondells but had no idea that Tommy had a solo career. But as each song came on, I said oh, yeah! and was able to sing every line lol.

[@pjmurphy920]

Being in high school at the time of his hits, I liked them all but "I Think We're Alone Now" and "Crimson and Clover" are awesome and fun songs and my favorites. Tommy seems like a super nice guy. Thanks for the interesting show, again, Prof!!

[@daves3819]

As a kid growing up in small town Sask I always loved his music. But as the years went by I slowly forgot about them until you played bits and pieces today. Thanks for the memory and thanks to Tommy James!!

[@francisseidel8014]

My first three cassette tapes were Deep Purple - Machine Head, Yes - Fragile, and Tommy James and the Shondells - Greatest Hits! Tommy was an unbelievable talent.

[@davidme9698]

Wow mine were not cassettes but 8 tracks.

[@francisseidel8014]

@davidme9698 - I had records before this, but I got these three after receiving a cassette player for my birthday.

[@netmeg]

Draggin The Line was one of my all time favorites from the summer of 1971 and hearing it instantly takes me back. I was just a kid and that year was the first year I had my very own radio and it was truly a revelation.

[@catherine6653]

I love Tommy James and the Shondells! I drove to work today with Mony Mony cover by Billy Idol 😊 I hope the Magic Spoon Cereal has prizes in the box.

[@ProfessorofRock]

They are so great!

[@marktait2371]

tuesday in the car flipping channels same

[@phillipmarlowe0525]

It is Mony Mony not money money.

[@catherine6653]

@@phillipmarlowe0525 I will edit. It was the spell check.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

I am really intrigued about the Magic Spoon Cereal as well. Like, will it give me luck?

[@teresataylor4671]

I graduated in '71, I vividly remember them. I'm so glad I heard some excellent music! I was 10 yrs.old when the beatles came out. I'm still a rocker at 71! In my opinion the 70's had the best music rver recorded.

[@jamiepike6909]

If you lived in the 70’s but don’t remember any of it, you’ll love this channel😎

[@ProfessorofRock]

Love it!

[@Heene1028]

😂😂… What?😳

[@ProfessorofRock]

@@Heene1028 Ha ha!

[@GringoLoco1]

Brilliant 👊🏻

[@humboldthammer]

The thing about the 70's was that one had to work to find this much information. Never before RIGHT NOW -- not in the entire history of humanity -- have so many educated people lived so freely and so abundantly. And for just 18 years, we have been connected to this shared, worldwide experience with near-instant communication. It is GUARANTEED to Wake THIS Generation Up! Because the Father knows what you need, before you ask. Draggin' the line.

[@beeonthyme5760]

I remember his songs were EVERYWHERE. I loved them and have never tired of hearing them. He looks absolutely great!! So glad to see he's still alive and kicking! Blessings to you.

[@nageeb96]

you can never give up. like the great Randy Meisner said. when there is nothing left to believe in put me on a highway and show me a sign and take it to the limit one more time. keep on trying and never lose the dream.wow RIP.

[@ProfessorofRock]

For sure!

[@2AChef-n-BBQ]

Tommy was one of my heroes. He lived in Niles Michigan, a short jaunt from here. Great guy and did it on his own. Incredible song writer, listen to him often

[@FreddyKurganNimmo]

Growing up in the '80s, my Mom introduced me to A LOT of artists from the '50s & '60s. For about the first 15 years of hearing it, I thought he was singing "Lemon Meringue"🤔😆

[@ProfessorofRock]

Ha ha ha!

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

Ha!

[@ardathbey4150]

I had forgotten their/his songs... after listening to your post... their/his songs are back on my regular play list... thanks Doc

[@80sbrunnette]

This gave me goosebumps…. My dad just showed me one of their songs yesterday 😭 Crimson and Clover and I’ve never heard of them until yesterday

[@ProfessorofRock]

Go check him out!

[@HungryH1951]

I was a huge fan of Tommy James from the moment I first heard Hanky Panky back in 1966. He had so many really good and quality songs such as, I think we're alone now, Crystal Blue Persuasion, Sweet Cherry Wine, Mirage, Crimson and Clover. In the long run he said he was fortunate to have signed with Roulette records. One thing I read was Roulette (Levy) gave him all the studio time he wanted, free of charge which was unheard of at other record companies. Still he was totally shafted on royalties, it all went into Levy's pocket ($millions). Levy and his mob friends were not to be messed with as can be attested to by what happened to Jimmie Rodgers (who incidentally was from my hometown of Camas, WA.) But Tommy survived the mob and we are so fortunate to have his songs. Draggin the line was also a great song. I had never heard the rib joint thing before so no comment other than they also ripped him off.

[@MyName-pl7zn]

A movie about Tommy would be amazing, the story of this fantastic song writer and music creator and the craziness behind the scenes could be a great film. Hug a tree is a culture iconic phrase I never knew it was Tommy's too. To think he mixed this by himself after people liked it. One of the greatest creators of music in my life time. Thanks for this episode, my favorite song by him, great episode

[@ProfessorofRock]

My understanding is it was in pre production. Not sure what's going on.

[@MyName-pl7zn]

@@ProfessorofRock really! I would love it!

[@AnnaTrail-xp8pr]

We grew up in such an amazing time of talent and blessings they can still perform. Once they are gone not a lot out there to replace them unfortunately. My husband and I were talking about it a few days ago. Great movie indeed.

[@MyName-pl7zn]

@@AnnaTrail-xp8pr best era in music!!

[@AnnaTrail-xp8pr]

@@MyName-pl7zn Absolutely and glad we got to experience it.

[@populargsquad9449]

We loved his concert with Peter Noone (Herman’s Hermits) in San Antonio, Texas a few years ago. My son was the only child at the show. Tommy later wrote a quick note for my son on his Facebook page that he should continue playing guitar. My son was about 12 years old at the time. My son now occasionally leads for the worship band at our church. He still remembers Tommy’s encouraging words and is one of his favorite artists (and on his way to having his own guitar collection).

[@keithosterberg]

Here’s a story you probably haven’t heard. Tommy lived in the same NYC apartment building as the Cowsills. When their father Bud was on one of his violent tirades, the Cowsills would often go hide and hangout in Tommy’s place.

[@ogam5]

Yep - an EXCELLENT interview it WAS they did with him last (?) year; made ME feel like part of THEIR family, Keith (and I swear Susan looks 30 years younger than she actually is now!) - as my father & I stayed at his favorite hotel in NYC, the Taft - up until our LAST visit, summer of '76.....

[@bjstover9523]

I was on the Flower Power cruise back in March and Tommy was our first band too see. He gets sea sick so they had to get him on and then off right away. He still sings great! Lot of great bands were there. I would love too see you on the 2026 Flower Power cruise! You would be great and very welcomed!

[@mneugent7658]

I haven't even watched the video yet but I KNOW this is about Tommy James and his dealings with Morris "Hesh Rabkin" Levy. I read his book. Had to go to the folks who printed the paper record labels to figure out how many were shipped. TJ is a legend.

[@ProfessorofRock]

Hope you enjoy it. YOu're were right on the money!

[@oldiesgeek454]

I saw him perform in Utah in 2019. Afterwards, he signed both his book and my original album cover of the Shondells greatest hits. I could tell he was a bit surprised to see an original 1970 cover, and not just a reissue. 😊

[@hoozat007]

Such a cool sounding song. This was played at a music trivia night in a local pub just a few weeks ago. It was the first time I’d heard it in many years and had completely forgotten about it. I immediately downloaded it to my regular playlist.

[@The78vikings]

Niles, Michigan's Finest!!! Always a pro, super nice to fans, a real great guy!!!

[@colleencarr3470]

Of course his single was divinely inspired just like every single idea anyone has. When I was younger I usually went for the melody & the beat of a song. I did not pay attention to lyrics & even the creators names. I never connected Dragging the Line w/ Tommy James. Thank you for the lesson.

[@ProfessorofRock]

Thanks for watching!

[@kevinmartin1204]

Love this song for the first moment, I heard it and Professor. This is one of your best interviews and history lesson ever. Thank you so much.

[@dranet47]

I had no idea what he went through. Wow.

[@ProfessorofRock]

Amazing eh?

[@shamancarmichael5305]

So many great hits that have survived the test of time! Can't stop a well crafted, well performed song!

[@LaManteca76]

Lol, sometimes when I've had a hard day, I say "Yabba Dabba Doo!" when I clock out to go home. 😁

[@ProfessorofRock]

Ha ha! Very cool!

[@humboldthammer]

Sometimes, I say, "Hey kids, What time is it?" It's Howdy Doody Time

[@LaManteca76]

@@humboldthammer 🤣Awesome! I'm going to start saying that as well. 😂

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

I still like to sing the Flintstones theme to myself sometimes.

[@musclecarmitch908]

Awesome episode Professor! Tommy James has always been one of my favorites! Awesome story! Things I never knew about him, and especially awesome you got to interview him!👍

[@ProfessorofRock]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@brentcox7772]

Such a great story Professor!! Need to go back and listen to some Tommy today!🤘🔥

[@ProfessorofRock]

Please do! He's the man! Thanks Brent. Favorite song?

[@brentcox7772]

“Dragging the Line”!!🤘🔥

[@juliao1255]

That's what I love about this channel... I loved all his popular (i.e. radio played) music. I just didn't know it was all from the same guy!

[@walterchappel180]

“Tommy James and the Shondells released nine platinum albums and 23 gold singles between 1965 and 1970”. WHAT??? That’s INSANE. And how have I never known that before???

[@ProfessorofRock]

A lot of people forget! He was a hit making machine!

[@SuperMrsbowen]

I still don't understand how 9 platinum albums and 23 gold singles adds up to 110 million records though

[@ProfessorofRock]

@@SuperMrsbowen I saw the same number in the GUARDIAN.

[@hamdude2109]

Heavy drug use? Just guessing.

[@SuperMrsbowen]

@@ProfessorofRock I know - I think that's just what Tommy says though :)

[@BBQDad463]

Thank you for this video. It is unfortunate that he got involved with the Mob. I am glad to hear that TJ is OK with it after all these years. I liked his music, both his work with Tommy James and The Shondells and his solo career.

[@rogerdeahl9629]

❤🎉 Had a friend see Tommy James over 25 times. Great songs from his catalog. Shame he had to deal with the mob. Music is a funny business. 🤷 Thanks Professor! And yes I do remember Hanna-Barbera. I think.

[@Sweet--Richard.4981]

Hendrix and Eric Burdon also affected by the same mob tactics

[@ProfessorofRock]

Roger! Love it. Have you seen him live?

[@ProfessorofRock]

@@Sweet--Richard.4981 True.

[@rogerdeahl9629]

@@ProfessorofRock Sadly no. But I heard he still does a great show.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

The music business is cruel sometimes.

[@jjglick5777]

In 1975 I was the soundman/roadie for a local Long Island band. We used to rent our Hammond organ and PA to Tommy when he played out on Long Island. I was doing the sound for our band when a guy comes up to me and asks if I can put the tremelo into the monitors. It was Tommy. He had a big bushy head of hair. I didn't recognize him.

[@fredgroenke2586]

I never understood those lyrics. Never woulda guessed that My dog Sam eats purple flowers was what he was saying.

[@ProfessorofRock]

Ha ha. Pretty funny. Well, we got it straight from him!

[@LaManteca76]

I never realised he was saying that. I really need to look up lyrics. I always find I'm singing the wrong words, lol.

[@fredgroenke2586]

That’s why I love this channel!

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

Sounds so silly!

[@duaneperkins8329]

I will say that he is one of my favorite artists you have interviewed...love hearing him talk about everything.

[@fredgroenke2586]

Crystal Blue Persuasion pretty much exemplify the psychedelic mood of the late 60’s and early 70’s. My personal favorite TJ song. Although Draggin’ and Crimson are great also.

[@ProfessorofRock]

That's my favorite too!

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

Yup, mine too.

[@marksink1652]

The only time I ever traded vinyl records.. it was Draggin the Line for Crystal Blue Persuasion. Yep.

[@okanagansummers2866]

Draggin the Line was on one of our K-tel albums in the early 70's and I remember it being one of the more creative tunes on the disc that also made me feel good and had me singing along from the first play - Tommy James is awesome - what a fabulous catalogue! Great to see and hear him - thanks Prof :)

[@philspear73]

Crazy to me that despite missing out on millions of royalties he still embraces Roulette. And yes they definitely stole that jingle!

[@ProfessorofRock]

They owe him some serious cash.

[@sandrasanders706]

​@@ProfessorofRockThis was a great video! Is there any way Tommy could get at least some of the money back?

[@maryarnold1426]

Wow! I never knew any of that. The music business certainly chewed up and spit out these talented young people. I’m thankful to have had Tommy’s music to “decorate my life” as I was growing up. I didn’t realize how prolific he was until you did this episode. It must feel good for him to share his story with you, especially knowing that you have over one million people who will know the truth now. I’m thankful for your life, Professor.

[@PrankZabba]

Never even heard the baby back ribs thing before. But that songs been a long time favorite since i was a kid. It ended up on so many "oldies" albums that it was unavoidable. I love playing the 45 at 33.

[@whppnpost1]

I'm trying to think but only a few come to mind, where an artist had so many big hits that also became big hits for other artists

[@ProfessorofRock]

Right! He had two #1 hits alone in 87, one replaced the other at #1!

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

He made a big accomplishment.

[@jhenry9486]

Grew up listening to Tommy James and the Shondells, love ALL their hits!! My older sister had several of their singles and their Greatest Hits on 8 Track! I played that 8 track often while getting ready for school in the morning.

[@DC8091]

damn they were AWESOME!! There’s no such thing as listin ta too much Tommy James “over & over”

[@ProfessorofRock]

Amen!

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

Yup!

[@toddb5760]

Iconic bass line that perhaps also inspired the Moody Blues’ “The Other Side of Life” beginning bass line? Great episode. Thanks Professor.

[@bobdennison207]

nice . I was 15yo in ' 68 . legend , ( Chrystal blue persuasion. )

[@ProfessorofRock]

It's a new sensation!

[@8stringswildoo]

I guess I was living under a rock, I had now idea they did all those songs. Very cool story Adam, thanks for posting!

[@karamia1392]

Crimson and Clover is one of those songs that just spirits me away to the time I first heard it. Wonderful creative music … all Tommy’s tracks.

[@ProfessorofRock]

For sure!

[@marktait2371]

concrete blonde best cover one of the highlights club show

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

It’s otherworldly!

[@Bill-Rocker]

When I was in the 2nd grade Mony came out and I was really diggin it. I had just moved to a new town, new house and it really helped. Crimson was the same...the long version was fantastic as a kid. Draggin the Line was another that really stuck with me over many years. I looked at my kids, then my Grandkids in the 2nd grade..I can hardly believe how great music was and what a big part it played in my young life. That's why I appreciate Adam so much, he has that love of music, like probably most of us here have to different degrees.

[@digitaldreamer5481]

Chili’s should just admit they stole the riff and cords of Dragging The Line and just pay da man! 😮

[@0010Kev]

One of the great things about your channel is that you make us listen to songs from our past with new ears. I was a kid in the 60s and 70s so of course i knew of TJ and the S, and knew all the songs you just talked about. However, they were just kind of part of the soundtrack of those years to me. Thaanks to you i have now REA,LLY listened to them again and realized how great they are! Thank you!

[@cliffordterry2133]

Just so that you may know, a 'dragline' is a shovel and 'dragging the line' is the work of shoveling something - dirt, asphalt, whatever.

[@ProfessorofRock]

Going off what was said in his biography

[@cliffordterry2133]

@@ProfessorofRock Right, I understand and am not criticizing. I am just speaking from the knowledge of my own experiences from that very same time.

[@kevinharms5158]

Dragging a line or dragging the line has different meanings in every business

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

Wow!

[@michaelreid5912]

Crystal Blue Persuasion is on the ‘bucket 10’ list that has been placed in my wife’s hands if and when a celebration of life service is needed. I’ve surfed on 3 different continents and that song captures the magic of early morning waves and at dusk..simply beautiful….thank you for show casing TJ.

[@nohandle1028]

I fell in love with the music of Tommy James and the Shondells after being introduced to it through my older cousins! Although I never knew that REM did a cover of Dragging the Line, Billy Idol's version of Mony, Mony, and Tiffany's rendition of I Think We're Alone Now, were amazing!

[@TerrickTerran]

Hard to pick Tommy's best song but I lean towards Mony Mony. I like I Think We're Alone Now but I prefer Tiffany's version.

[@ProfessorofRock]

Thanks!

[@thetitleisours1]

I remember hearing this song on a radio as a kid and did like it a lot. Crystal Blue was my favorite of theirs though

[@ProfessorofRock]

Same here. One of my favorites from the 60s

[@thetitleisours1]

@@ProfessorofRock Amazing how something in music can reach you on different emotional levels

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

That’s mine too. A feel good song.

[@ricosavage13]

Love Tommy and all his songs and was thrillled when I found out he also wrote Tighter and Tighter for Alive and Kickin'. This video could have gone down a lot of rabbit holes. Not mentioned was that Bruce Sudano was the co-founder and keys player in A&K, and he, from what I've read, became Tommy's protege, where he learned to write and record with Tommy at Allegro Studios. Sudano's worked with a load of big names including Michael Jackson, Dolly Parton, Reba, and of course, his future wife, Donna Summer. Their second daughter, Amanda, is part of the great duo JohnnySwim who have a great catalog of music, as well. Very cool stuff.

[@James_St._James]

Roulette Records put out some great hits.

[@ProfessorofRock]

Yes they did!

[@fredgroenke2586]

Are you referring to music or murders?

[@scottl31]

Why didn't you make any mention of Tommy's 1977 album "Midnight Rider" for Fantasy Records? It's a pretty good album. I think Jeff Barry wrote the title track. I was working for Fantasy in Berkeley CA at the time and one of my photos was used in the liner of the album.

[@constipatedinsincity4424]

Back in the Saddle Again Naturally

[@rixvspinner]

Great interview and Tommy seems like a down to earth guy who appreciates the positive side of being in the music business. Most record labels ran their business setting up the musician to hit certain sales levels that seemed unattainable before they saw a dime. Roulette had the resources Tommy needed to chart Crimson like he did. Why or how he ended up with Roulette I don't know. You would think someone would be afraid to work for them unless he had no idea they were funded by the mob till he was in deep. I couldn't believe their record sales numbers and had no idea till I saw your video.

[@synthact]

Luuuuv the Shirt

[@sgs1313]

Adam, are you somehow peeking at my setlist? That's so cool, we just added draggin the line a couple months ago, that's the third song this week you have featured....thanks for the insight into Tommy James, your perspective is very much appreciated

[@williamgaines9784]

I had Draggin The Line on 45 and the Bits & Pieces B side was cool too. Both had the call back/echo effect that kind of hooked you in with that headbobbing rhythm. Mono records and AM radio.🤗

[@exploringtheparanormalwith81]

Wow! Loved this episode! Has no idea he had all these songs I totally recognized. How cool to get to hear straight from the source all these things we all have been curious about over the years.

[@truck9moon100]

Tommy hooked me with "Hanky Panky" been a life long fan ever since. Great show, thanks a bunch.💗

[@not2late2game53]

I love Tommy James. So glad to hear Tommy tell his own story. Another great interview Adam

[@bjdefilippo447]

As someone who has been described with it for most of my life, I love hearing about the possible origins of "tree hugger". Thanks, Adam!

[@johnglielmi6428]

Tommy James is nothing less than a hit maker! whether with a band , solo, or just writing songs for other artist. And that bass line is one of my favorite bass riffs of all time! you hear it and you instantly know the song!