#1 for week of November 16th, 1959.
This is the first of many times on this list that a previous talked about artist reappears. In this case, it's The Fleetwoods, the same soft-pop vocal trio who produced, "Come Softy To Me".
Some of the upsides, and downsides for, "Softly", are still present in, "Mr. Blue". Just like the former, "Mr. Blue", is a very mellow soft pop song. It features a set lead singer, and two backing vocalists who sometimes add counter and companion melodies to the song. The overall sound and tone of both songs sounds very dated, and to a modern audience fueled by loud or beat-heavy tunes, this song probably won't do much for them. Even when the psychedelic age rolled around, this type of music sounded anachronistic.
But here, I try to find a silver lining in every tune I listen to. For one, this song has a much more interesting and complex melody than, "Softly", and while it still borders on being a lullaby, "Mr. Blue" is a bit more upbeat sounding. There's actually a solid band in the background instead of just an off-tempo guitar and car key percussion. However, the band is very laid back and it is clear that the vocals are what is on display in the song.
So despite the fact that the song is another easy-listening pop ballad, it's carefree unpretentious singing style and lyrics make it better than other soft pop fare from this year such as, "The Three Bells". In fact, if this song had been covered in the 1960's with a more folk-rock or even British Invasion arrangement, with its melody intact, I could see it as something I would be proud to have in my record collection.
Final Verdict - While this song and genre are again not my usual cup of tea, I still know a good melody when I hear one, and this song is very melodic. Sugary, but not too sweet, unfashionable, but not pretentious. Who knows, maybe it's right up your alley.
Coming Up Next - "Heartaches By The Number" by Guy Mitchell.
Until Next Time - Dr. Rock -
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