“Side by Side” was written by Harry M. Woods in 1927.
This time, I’d like to share the Mitch Miller & The Gang version of this classic song.

Why You Should Listen

“Side by Side” has become a well-known standard and has been recorded by many artists over the years.
The Mitch Miller & The Gang version features a cheerful sing-along style and catchy lyrics with many rhyming phrases.

Highlights

・Cheerful sing-along style
・Catchy lyrics with many rhyming phrases
・Classic American popular song

About the Song

“Side by Side” was written by Harry M. Woods in 1927.
One of the best-known versions was recorded by Kay Starr.
Her version was released in the early 1950s and reached the top 10.
My favorite version is the one by Mitch Miller & The Gang.
This was the first version of the song I heard.
Over the years, “Side by Side” has become a well-known standard and has been recorded by many artists.

About the Artist

Mitch Miller was an American choral conductor, record producer, record-industry executive, and professional oboist.
He worked as an artist and repertoire (A&R) executive for Columbia Records for many years.
He also became very popular with Mitch Miller & The Gang and hosted the television show “Sing Along with Mitch.”

Conclusion

“Side by Side” is a classic song that has been recorded by many artists over the years.
The Mitch Miller & The Gang version is especially enjoyable for its cheerful sing-along style.

Video courtesy of the official YouTube channel.

“Love Grows (Where My Rosemary Goes)” is the debut single by Edison Lighthouse, written by Tony Macaulay and Barry Mason and released in 1970.
This time, I’d like to share a TV performance of the song featuring lead vocalist Tony Burrows.

Why You Should Listen

Tony Burrows’ bright and energetic vocals give the song its cheerful sound.
Its catchy melody and upbeat arrangement make it a memorable pop song from the early 1970s.

Highlights

・Tony Burrows’ bright and energetic vocals
・Catchy and cheerful melody
・Classic early-1970s pop sound

About the Song

“Love Grows (Where My Rosemary Goes)” was written by Tony Macaulay and Barry Mason.
The song was first recorded by Geoff Turton under the name Jefferson, but his version was released six months later.
Edison Lighthouse’s version was released in 1970 and topped the charts in the UK, Ireland, and New Zealand.
It also peaked at No. 2 in Australia, No. 3 in Canada and South Africa, and No. 5 on the US Billboard Hot 100. It reached the top 10 in several other countries as well.
The single sold over 300,000 copies in New Zealand, 400,000 copies in the UK, and one million copies in the US.

About the Artist

Edison Lighthouse was formed in 1969 as a studio project featuring session vocalist Tony Burrows.
Their debut single, “Love Grows (Where My Rosemary Goes),” became their best-known and most successful song.
Their second single, “She Works in a Woman’s Way,” was released in 1970 and peaked at No. 3 in New Zealand, but it was not a major hit in other countries.
After releasing the second single, Tony Burrows left the group.
Burrows also sang with several studio groups, including Edison Lighthouse, Brotherhood of Man, White Plains, The Pipkins, and The First Class.

Conclusion

“Love Grows (Where My Rosemary Goes)” is a great example of Tony Burrows’ work as a session vocalist in the early 1970s.
Someday, I’d like to share more songs featuring his vocals.

“Breathless” was written by The Corrs and Robert John “Mutt” Lange. It was recorded and released by The Corrs in 2000 as the lead single from their album In Blue.

The song was nominated for the Grammy Award for Best Pop Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocals in 2001.

Why You Should Listen

If you enjoy catchy pop melodies with Celtic influences, “Breathless” is a must-listen. Andrea Corr’s energetic vocals, the band’s outstanding musicianship, and the song’s memorable chorus make it one of the best pop songs of the early 2000s.

Its uplifting atmosphere and timeless appeal continue to attract listeners around the world.

Highlights

• Catchy pop-rock sound with Celtic influences
• Andrea Corr’s energetic and expressive vocals
• Memorable chorus and uplifting melody

About the Song

“Breathless” was written by The Corrs and Robert John “Mutt” Lange, and produced by Lange.
It was included on their album In Blue and released as its lead single in 2000.
The song features Andrea Corr’s powerful lead vocals, combined with the band’s signature blend of pop rock and Celtic influences.

“Breathless” topped the singles charts in the United Kingdom, Poland, Finland, and the Czech Republic. It reached No. 2 in Romania and Italy, No. 3 in Ireland and Portugal, No. 4 on Canada’s Adult Contemporary chart, and entered the Top 10 in many other countries. The single was certified double Platinum by ARIA and Platinum by the BPI.

It was nominated for the Grammy Award for Best Pop Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocals in 2001. Although it did not win, it became one of The Corrs’ signature songs.

About the Artist

The Corrs are an Irish family band formed in 1990. The group consists of siblings Andrea Corr (lead vocals, tin whistle, mandolin, ukulele), Sharon Corr (violin, keyboards, vocals), Caroline Corr (drums, percussion, piano, bodhrán, vocals), and Jim Corr (guitar, piano, keyboards, vocals).

Their debut single, “Runaway,” was released in 1995. It reached No. 10 on the Irish and Australian Singles Charts, No. 49 on the UK Singles Chart, and No. 68 on the Billboard Hot 100.

Their debut studio album, Forgiven, Not Forgotten, was also released in 1995. It topped the Australian Albums Chart, reached No. 2 in Ireland and the UK, No. 4 in Spain, and entered the Top 100 in many other countries. The album received multiple Platinum certifications worldwide.

The band went on hiatus in 2006 before reuniting in 2015. They continue to perform and record music today.

Conclusion

The Corrs are one of Ireland’s most successful family bands, and “Breathless” remains their best-known and most iconic song.

Its infectious melody, strong vocals, and Celtic-inspired pop sound have made it a timeless favorite for music fans around the world.

Video courtesy of the official YouTube channel.

“Holding Out for a Hero” was written by lyricist Dean Pitchford and composer Jim Steinman, and recorded by Welsh singer Bonnie Tyler for the soundtrack to the 1984 film Footloose.

Why You Should Listen

The song became a hit in many countries and was later covered by several Japanese artists.

Highlights

• Bonnie Tyler’s powerful, raspy vocals
• Upbeat rock sound

About the Song

“Holding Out for a Hero” was written by lyricist Dean Pitchford, composer and producer Jim Steinman, and recorded by Welsh singer Bonnie Tyler for the soundtrack to the 1984 film Footloose.

Paramount Pictures invited Bonnie Tyler to record the song for the film’s soundtrack. She accepted the offer and recorded it.
The song showcases her powerful, raspy voice, which became one of her trademarks.

It peaked at No. 8 on the Finland Singles Chart, No. 12 on the Europarade Top 40, No. 19 on the Canada Top Singles and Austria Singles charts, No. 34 on the Billboard Hot 100, and No. 96 on the UK Singles Chart.
It also charted in several other countries.

The song was later re-recorded by Bonnie Tyler herself and covered by various artists.
In particular, the Japanese lyrics were written by Masao Urino.
It was first released as a single by Takeshi Kitagawa in 1984, and later that year Yuki Katsuragi and Miki Asakura also released their own versions.
Miki Asakura’s version was used as the theme song for the Japanese TV drama School Wars and became very popular in Japan.

Video courtesy of the official YouTube channel.

“I Like It, I Love It” was written by Steuart Smith, Steve Dukes, and Mark Hall, and recorded by American country artist Tim McGraw in 1995.

Why You Should Listen

It’s one of Tim McGraw’s signature songs, featuring an energetic live performance and enthusiastic audience participation.

Highlights

• Enthusiastic audience participation
• A classic country sound featuring electric guitar

About the Song

“I Like It, I Love It” was written by Steuart Smith, Steve Dukes, and Mark Hall, and recorded by American country artist Tim McGraw.

It was included on his 1995 album All I Want and released as the album’s lead single the same year.

This live version features enthusiastic audience participation, creating an exciting atmosphere.

The song reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart and Canada’s Country Tracks chart.

It has been certified 2× Platinum by the RIAA.

About the Artist

Samuel Timothy McGraw is an American country singer, actor, and producer.

He began his recording career in 1990.

His debut single, “What Room Was the Holiday In,” was released in 1991 but did not chart.

His first charting single, “Welcome to the Club,” was released in 1992 and peaked at No. 47 on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart.

His debut studio album, Tim McGraw, was released in 1993 but was not commercially successful.

His second album, Not a Moment Too Soon, was released in 1994 and reached No. 1 on the Billboard 200, Top Country Albums, and Canadian Country Albums charts.

He married American country singer Faith Hill in 1996.

Their Soul2Soul II Tour in 2006 became one of the highest-grossing tours in country music history.

Conclusion

“I Like It, I Love It” is one of Tim McGraw’s signature songs, featuring an exciting live performance and a classic country guitar sound.

Video courtesy of the official YouTube channel.

“Keep On Loving You” was written by Kevin Cronin and recorded and released by the American rock band REO Speedwagon in 1980.

It remains one of the greatest power ballads of the 1980s.

Why You Should Listen

This song combines a heartfelt melody with powerful vocals and excellent musicianship.

It became REO Speedwagon’s first No. 1 hit and remains one of the band’s best-known songs.

Highlights

• Kevin Cronin’s powerful vocals and piano performance
• Outstanding guitar work in the bridge
• A memorable melody and emotional lyrics

About the Song

“Keep On Loving You” was written by Kevin Cronin and recorded and released by REO Speedwagon in 1980.

The song features Kevin Cronin’s powerful vocals and piano playing, along with an excellent guitar performance during the bridge section.

It topped the Billboard Hot 100 and the US Cash Box chart.

It also reached No. 2 on the Canadian RPM Singles Chart, No. 3 in Australia, No. 6 in Ireland, and No. 7 in the United Kingdom.

The single was certified Platinum by the RIAA and Gold by the BPI. It became REO Speedwagon’s first No. 1 hit and remains one of the band’s signature songs.

The album “Hi Infidelity,” which included the single, became the band’s best-selling album.

About the Artist

REO Speedwagon was an American rock band formed in 1967.

Their debut single, “157 Riverside Avenue,” was released in 1972 but failed to chart. Their first charting single, “Sophisticated Lady,” was released in 1972 and reached No. 122 on the Billboard chart.

The band’s breakthrough success came with “Keep On Loving You.”

They spent more than a decade building their career before finally achieving a major hit. Their debut studio album, “R.E.O. Speedwagon,” was released in 1971 but was not commercially successful.

Following the success of “Keep On Loving You,” the band released many more hit singles throughout the 1980s.

The group remained active, with various lineup changes, until 2024.

Conclusion

“Keep On Loving You” is one of the finest power ballads of the 1980s and remains REO Speedwagon’s best-known song.

Its powerful vocals, memorable melody, and emotional performance continue to attract listeners today.

Video courtesy of the official YouTube channel.

“Up, Up and Away” was written by Jimmy Webb and recorded and released by the American soul-pop group The 5th Dimension in 1967.

It became one of The 5th Dimension’s signature songs and remains one of the most popular sunshine pop recordings of the 1960s.

Why You Should Listen

If you enjoy beautiful vocal harmonies and sophisticated orchestral arrangements, this song is well worth listening to.

Its uplifting melody and optimistic atmosphere perfectly capture the spirit of late-1960s sunshine pop.

Highlights

・Beautiful vocal harmonies
・Excellent orchestration
・An uplifting and memorable melody

About the Song

“Up, Up and Away” was written by Jimmy Webb and recorded and released by the American soul-pop group The 5th Dimension in 1967.

The song topped the singles charts in Australia and Canada, reached No. 7 on the Billboard Hot 100, and peaked at No. 9 in New Zealand.

It has been covered by many artists over the years.

I especially enjoy Frank Sinatra’s version.

About the Artist

The 5th Dimension is an American vocal group formed in 1966.

Their music combines sunshine pop, pop soul, and psychedelic soul.

Their debut single, “You’re Good Enough for Me,” was released as a non-album single in 1966 but failed to chart.

Their first charting single, “Go Where You Wanna Go,” was released as their third single in 1966. It reached No. 16 on the Billboard Hot 100, No. 18 in Canada, and No. 75 in Australia.

Their debut studio album, “Up, Up and Away,” was released in 1967.

It reached No. 6 in Canada, No. 8 on the Billboard 200, and No. 10 on the Billboard R&B Albums chart.

The album was certified Gold in the United States.

The group’s recordings are known for their rich harmonies and uplifting sound.

Whenever I listen to their music, I feel relaxed.

Conclusion

“Up, Up and Away” is one of Jimmy Webb’s most successful compositions and one of The 5th Dimension’s signature songs.

With its beautiful harmonies, memorable melody, and sophisticated orchestration, it remains a classic example of sunshine pop.

Video courtesy of the official YouTube channel.

“Song for Guy” is an instrumental piece written by the British musician Elton John in 1978.

This time, I’d like to share a beautiful cover version by The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra.

Why You Should Listen

Although Elton John is best known as a singer-songwriter, “Song for Guy” is a rare instrumental piece that showcases his gift for melody.

The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra transforms this gentle piano composition into a rich and elegant orchestral work while preserving the beauty of the original.

Highlights

• A rare instrumental composition by Elton John
• Beautiful orchestral arrangement by The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra
• A peaceful and emotional melody

About the Song

“Song for Guy” is an instrumental piece written by Elton John in 1978.

It was included on his album “A Single Man.” Elton John’s original version was released as a single in 1978 and reached No. 4 on the UK Singles Chart and No. 7 on the New Zealand Singles Chart.

It also charted in several other countries.

The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra’s version was included on the Elton John tribute album “Candle in the Wind: An Orchestral Tribute” and was released in 1997.

About the Artist

The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra (RPO) was founded in London by Thomas Beecham in 1946.

In 1963, the orchestra became a self-governing organization.

The title “Royal” was granted to Beecham with permission from the Royal Philharmonic Society and was officially approved by Queen Elizabeth II in 1966.

The orchestra is best known for its performances of classical music, but it has also recorded film scores and popular music projects.

Incidentally, an earlier orchestra associated with the Royal Philharmonic Society existed from 1913 to 1931.

Conclusion

This beautiful orchestral cover allows listeners to experience one of Elton John’s most touching compositions from a different perspective.

If you enjoy orchestral music, this version is well worth listening to.

Video courtesy of the official YouTube channel.

“Don’t Let the Sun Go Down on Me” was written by Bernie Taupin and Elton John, and was originally recorded and released by Elton John in 1974.

This time, I would like to introduce the 1991 live version performed by George Michael and Elton John.

Why You Should Listen

In the live performance, Elton John suddenly appears on stage and sings together with George Michael.

Their powerful vocals create an unforgettable performance.

Highlights

• Powerful vocals by George Michael and Elton John

• Excellent live performance, especially the piano playing

• Emotional and dramatic atmosphere

About the Song

The lyrics of “Don’t Let the Sun Go Down on Me” were written by Bernie Taupin, and the music was composed by Elton John.

The song was included on Elton John’s 1974 album Caribou and was released as a single in the same year.

The original version peaked at No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 and No. 16 on the UK Singles Chart.

It was also nominated for a Grammy Award.

The live version by George Michael and Elton John was released in 1991 and topped the Billboard Hot 100, the UK Singles Chart, the Canadian Top Singles chart, and the Dutch Single Top 100 chart. Moreover, it became a major hit in many countries.

The single sold over 500,000 copies in the United States and over 400,000 copies in the UK, and was also certified in several other countries.

About the Artist About Elton John

I have written about Elton John before, so please check the article below. Candle in the Wind review article

About George Michael

George Michael was an English singer-songwriter who began his music career in 1981. He formed the pop duo Wham! with Andrew Ridgeley, and they released many No. 1 hit singles and became very popular.

Someday, I would also like to introduce Wham! on this site. George Michael’s first solo hit single, “Careless Whisper”, was written and released in 1984.

The song topped the singles charts in both the United States and the UK and reached the top 10 in many countries.

His first studio album, Faith, was released in 1987 and topped the album charts in both the United States and the UK.

After that, he released many successful singles and albums.

Conclusion

Both the original version and the live version of “Don’t Let the Sun Go Down on Me” became major hits.

Video courtesy of the official YouTube channel.