In the beginning...

In the beginning, I was a Beatles fan. I was also a big fan of Alvin, Theodore, and Simon. At an early age, I was fortunate enough to be able to watch the Beatles on "The Ed Sullivan Show". I remember watching them with my father whom I have to thank for having Santa bring me "The Chipmunks Sing the Beatles Hits." I soon knew the words of the songs and was serenading a cute boy on the school bus with "She Loves You." My belated apology goes out to him wherever he may be.

In middle school, I discovered Bobby Sherman, actor and singer, on the show, "Here Come the Brides." I was soon singing "Little Woman" and his pictures adorned my bedroom walls. I bought all his albums and shared my love for him with a neighbor friend who sometimes babysat for us. How I loved hearing the stories about him that she got from the teen magazines. Even though I do not have the original lps I owned, I have been able to secure copies lately. Imagine! Someone actually gave them up!!!

Of all the people in my life who have influenced my musical taste and, subsequently, my vinyl collection, my high school bus driver holds an honored place. The word "cool" doesnt

begin to describe him. When most kids fought for the back seats on the bus, I prayed for the front seat. "Why?", you might ask. For the simple reason that he had an 8-track player mounted on the dash and played Genesis, Van Morrison, James Taylor, and Neil Young. I was captivated by the lyrics and music coming from his speakers, transitioning me from bubblegum music to the world of rock. I remember asking for "Sweet Baby James" and "After the Gold Rush" for Christmas. Kudos to my mother for honoring my request, even though I know the cover of "After the Gold Rush" made her feel a bit uneasy. Thanks, Mother! and, Mr. Bus Driver!

Hence, this was the beginning of my vinyl collecting.

So, what was your first album? Who most influenced your musical taste?

And, yes, I do still give The Chipmunks and Bobby a spin sometimes!