The End of the World

This is my instrumental cover of “The End of the World”, which was a big hit for country singer Skeeter Davis in 1962. It was a major crossover success, reaching #2 on the Billboard Hot 100. The song was written by written by composer Arthur Kent and lyricist Sylvia Dee, who often worked as a team.

The Skeeter Davis track was produced by Chet Atkins and featured pianist Floyd Cramer. The song was performed at Atkins’s 2001 funeral as an instrumental by Marty Stuart and was also played at Davis’s own funeral in 2004.

I’ll Cry Instead

“I’ll Cry Instead” is a John Lennon composition credited to Lennon–McCartney, and recorded by the Beatles for the soundtrack to their film A Hard Day’s Night.

Joe Cocker’s first single was a cover of this song in 1964. Johnny Rivers included a cover on a 1965 album. Chet Atkins recorded an instrumental version in 1966.

My instrumental arrangement is based on the distinctive country-swing feel of the original Beatles version.

 

Gone Gone Gone

We now resume our regular, non-holiday programming.

“Gone Gone Gone” was released in 1964. It never cracked the top-40. But If you can sit still while listening to this, you need medical attention.

Seriously, many younger music fans need to take some time to learn about Phil & Don. They were were brilliant.

The Ventures covered this tune on their 19665 album “The Ventures Knock Me out”.

Trambone

“Trambone” was a track on Chet Atkins’ 1962 album “Back Home”. It went on to become one of his signature tunes. Duane Eddy and the Ventures covered it as well.