FOR A SONG
Ah, yes … music was a whole lot different back in the day, especially when it came to ’70s era pop songs. But thanks to the Fulfillment Fund, we got to relive all those snappy, Top 10 tunes all over again. The organization hosted its fourth annual “Songs of Our Lives” concert at the Wadsworth Theater in Westwood.
Malibu’s Tony Danza emceed the event, which showcased some legendary songwriters, including Norman Gimbel and Charles Fox, Jeff Barry and David Pack. Gimbel and Fox appeared on stage together for the first time in 30 years. The dynamic duo performed Roberta Flack’s “Killing Me Softly,” Barry Manilow’s “Ready to Take a Chance Again” and Jim Croce’s “I Got a Name,” as well as the theme songs to “Happy Days” and “Laverne and Shirley.”
But there was more than just bubble gum at this sweet affair. Sixties aficionados got into the mood with Felix Cavaliere who penned classics like “Good Lovin’,” “Groovin’,” “A Beautiful Morning” and “People Got to Be Free.” For the disco crowd, Allee Willis was on board. Willis wrote feel-good tunes like “September” and “Boogie Wonderland” for Earth, Wind and Fire, and “Neutron Dance” for the Pointer Sisters.
Jeff Barry was there for a flashback to the ‘50s. Barry is the guy behind the romantic anthem “Chapel of Love” for The Dixie Cups, motorcycle favorite “Leader of the Pack” for the Sangri-Las, “Be My Baby” for the Ronettes and “Da Doo Ron Ron” for the Crystals. The talented Dianne Reeves also got in on the act.
Music lovers and merry makers included Fulfillment Fund board member Jay Landers and founder and chairman Gary Gitnick.
The organization has been helping the community through education programs for more than 30 years. It provides low- income students throughout the Los Angeles area with the support they need to graduate from high school, earn a college degree and land their first job.
MAD ABOUT THE MEN
The big buzz over at CBS is all about the new and improved comedy series “Two and a Half Men.” Ashton Kutcher joins the number one-rated sitcom replacing Charlie Sheen. Word has it that Kutcher will play an internet billionaire and be introduced in a two-part season premiere. Can he fill the shoes of the winning, self-proclaimed “rock star from Mars?” Stay tuned. Fall is right around the corner.