I bleed, therefore I bitch -

[kyburg]

I haven't heard this music is so long. But I've had it running through my memory for months now.

Copyright, 1970. We used it for a dance concert I was in - in Junior High. I was 13, I think - that would be 1974.

You want a good way to memorize the Declaration of Independence?

I think Jim puts it well - "I may be something of a liberal, and critical of my country. But that does not mean I'm not a patriot."

These are tracks off the 5th Dimension's "Portrait" album - Leroy Neiman did the cover artwork. It screams 60's. The arrangements are nearly primitive by today's standards, but they serve the vocals which are the centerpiece of the work.

They are singing the Declaration of Independence.

This isn't a song with only three notes and a percussion track. And only 12 words, repeated until the song ends. This is what I knew, growing up - notes up and down the whole scale, tight harmonies and if you think Bill Davis Jr. doesn't have an attitude, you're dead from the neck up.

"We hold these truths to be self-evident...."

Here, have a listen:

Medley - The Declaration of Independence, et al

For extra credit - the companion piece Save the Country.

The RIAA can bite me right in the lil' short hairs - here, you know you want more - go get a copy of your own, it's cheap:

Portrait by the 5th Dimension (Amazon.com Link)

And for extra extra credit?

Let Freedom Ring by Barry Manilow. That piece was written for the rededication of the Statue of Liberty -

I may cross post this later. Try hearing this stuff on a Clear Channel Station. Frickin' liars.

Comments

[auntiesiannan.livejournal.com]

Whenever I read the Gettysburg Address, I always hear Nell Carter singing it on the Hair soundtrack.

And never underestimate the importance of Schoolhouse Rock.

[filkerdave.livejournal.com]

And how many of us can sing the Preamble (or most of it) from Schoolhouse Rock?