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🎶 The Story Beyond My Song
Week of November 9–18 | A Celebration of Music, Legacy, and Soul
This week on The Story Beyond My Song and Barbria DeÁnne Shorts, we journey through the melodies, milestones, and memories that shaped generations. From the piano bars of Billy Joel to the jazz clubs of Carmen McRae, the stage lights of Whoopi Goldberg, and the soul of the O’Jays — each story reminds us how music connects the human spirit across time.
🎹 November 9, 1973 — Billy Joel Releases Piano Man
Columbia Records introduced the world to a storytelling troubadour with Piano Man. Billy Joel’s second studio album captured the soul of the working musician — a man at the bar, singing songs of hope, heartbreak, and humanity. As Joel once said, “If you are not doing what you love, you are wasting your time.”
🎙️ November 10, 1994 — Remembering Carmen McRae
Today we honor jazz legend Carmen McRae, whose smoky voice and sharp phrasing brought songs like ’Round Midnight to life. McRae’s artistry was more than performance — it was poetry in motion.
🚢 November 10, 1973 — The O’Jays Set Sail with Ship Ahoy
The O’Jays released the Billboard Album of 1974, Ship Ahoy — a soulful voyage of social commentary wrapped in harmony and groove. From For the Love of Money to Now That We Found Love, their sound was revolutionary — smooth yet powerful, uniting rhythm and message.
🇺🇸 November 11 — Happy Veterans Day
A heartfelt salute to all who have served. Thank you for your courage, sacrifice, and service. ❤️
🎵 November 12, 1935 — Happy Birthday, Terry “Buzzy” Johnson
Born Isaiah Terry Johnson, this original member of The Flamingos gave the world one of the most beautiful doo-wop ballads ever recorded: I Only Have Eyes for You. His harmonies defined an era — one of love, romance, and timeless sound.
🌟 November 13, 1955 — Whoopi Goldberg’s Birthday
Born Caryn Elaine Johnson, Whoopi Goldberg became a trailblazer of comedy, acting, and social truth. From The Color Purple to Sister Act, her voice — on-screen and off — continues to uplift and inspire.
🕊️ November 13, 2004 — Remembering Ol’ Dirty Bastard
We honor the life and legacy of Russell Tyrone Jones, better known as Ol’ Dirty Bastard, a founding member of the Wu-Tang Clan. Raw, creative, and unpredictable, he left a mark on hip-hop that can never be duplicated. His birthday follows just two days later, on November 15, 1968.
🎶 November 14, 1960 — Ray Charles’ Georgia on My Mind Hits Number One
The soulful genius of Ray Charles redefined music forever when Georgia on My Mind reached No. 1. The song later became Georgia’s state anthem — a timeless ode to heart and home.
🌍 November 14, 1991 — Michael Jackson Premieres Black or White
In a worldwide broadcast across 27 countries, Michael Jackson released Black or White, a unifying anthem about love beyond race and color. With his signature message, “Make love your weapon to overcome any evil,” the King of Pop reminded us that harmony is humanity.
💔 November 14, 2022 — Roberta Flack Reveals ALS Diagnosis
The world was moved when Roberta Flack, the voice of Killing Me Softly, revealed her battle with ALS, which left her unable to sing. Her grace and strength remind us that music lives beyond the voice — it lives in the soul.
💜 November 14, 2016 — Bernie Mac Day in Chicago
The city of Chicago declared November 14th Bernie Mac Day to honor one of comedy’s greatest voices. A hometown legend whose humor came from the heart, Bernie’s legacy continues to make us laugh and reflect.
💃🏽 November 18, 1975 — Rufus Featuring Chaka Khan
Rufus and Chaka Khan released their Billboard Album of 1976, blending funk, soul, and unstoppable energy. Chaka’s fire and finesse made her a defining voice for a generation — and she’s still every bit the Queen of Funk.
🎩 November 18, 1994 — Remembering Cab Calloway
Closing out the week, we honor Cab Calloway, the charismatic bandleader who taught us to Hi-De-Ho! From Harlem’s Cotton Club to Hollywood screens, his style and swing electrified the world — paving the way for generations of performers.
✨ Coming Up Next Week
More stories. More sound. More soul.
Stay tuned to The Story Beyond My Song and Barbria DeÁnne Shorts on YouTube for exclusive tributes and musical journeys through time.
Various CD's and Downloads
