Summary of "Alan Freed's Rock 'n' Roll Dance Party #03"

Release Date: July 1, 2025
Podcast: Harold's Old Time Radio
Host: Harold's Old Time Radio
Episode: Alan Freed's Rock 'n' Roll Dance Party #03

Introduction

In the third episode of "Alan Freed's Rock 'n' Roll Dance Party," listeners are transported back to the vibrant era before television dominated American households. Hosted by the charismatic Alan Freed, with co-host Burn Bennett, the show celebrates the Golden Age of Radio by featuring iconic performances and interviews with legendary artists. This episode, released on July 1, 2025, spotlights prominent figures in the rock and roll scene, including Count Basie and his Orchestra, Joe Williams, Tony Bennett, and the Cordettes.

Opening Remarks and Count Basie’s Performance

[00:00 - 00:34]
Alan Freed kicks off the show with his signature enthusiasm:

Alan Freed: "Hello, everybody. How are you all? This is yours truly, Alan Freed. Get your dancing shoes on and welcome to the Rock and Roll Dance Party."

Co-host Burn Bennett follows, introducing Freed as the "king of rock and roll":

Burn Bennett: "From New York City, the home of rock and roll, we welcome you to the big beat in popular music in America. And here's the king of rock and roll himself, Al."

The episode officially opens with an introduction to Count Basie and his Orchestra, featuring the smooth vocals of Joe Williams. Freed highlights the orchestra’s exceptional talent:

Alan Freed (03:22): "Hey, folks, you ever notice how you can spot a really fine piece of music right from the start? Like those wonderful choruses by Joe Newman and Frank West. Nobody has to tell you it's great. That's something, you know, first time you hear it."

Tony Bennett’s Performance: "One for My Baby"

[03:22 - 06:27]
The show transitions to Tony Bennett, a Columbia recording star and beloved guest. Bennett delivers a heartfelt rendition of "One for My Baby," blending his crooning style with the rhythmic accompaniment of Joe Williams:

Tony Bennett (04:02): "I got a little story you ought to know... I'm feeling so bad. I wish you'd make the music dreamy and sad."

Bennett's performance captures the emotional depth of the song, leaving listeners yearning for more.

The Cordettes’ Performance: "Mr. Sandman"

[06:28 - 08:22]
Next, the audience is treated to the harmonious melodies of the Cordettes, who perform their timeless hit "Mr. Sandman." Their flawless vocals and catchy lyrics exemplify the era's pop standards:

The Cordettes (06:53): "Mr. Sandman, bring me a dream. Make him the cutest that I've ever seen..."

Their performance is met with enthusiastic approval from both hosts and listeners alike.

Count Basie’s "April in Paris"

[08:22 - 12:11]
Returning to Count Basie and his Orchestra, the band performs a masterful rendition of "April in Paris." Freed praises the arrangement’s elegance:

Alan Freed (12:11): "Wonderful legacy of his orchestra. What an arrangement that is."

The sophisticated instrumentation and Basie’s impeccable timing underscore the orchestra's enduring appeal.

Introducing Joe William Joy and "Rock and Roll to Satisfy My Soul"

[12:11 - 16:04]
Freed takes a moment to introduce Joe William Joy, a promising new singer who has recently joined the Basie organization:

Alan Freed: "One of the greatest and brightest new singers in America, Joe William Joy."

Joe William Joy energizes the show with his dynamic performance of "Rock and Roll to Satisfy My Soul," showcasing his vibrant voice and stage presence:

Burn Bennett (12:47): "Let me rock and roll to satisfy my soul..."

Joe Williams adds a playful interjection:

Joe Williams (14:32): "Sam."

The performance is lively and infectious, keeping the audience engaged and enthusiastic.

Tony Bennett’s Return: "Always"

[16:04 - 18:45]
Tony Bennett returns to the stage with another beloved classic, "Always." His smooth delivery and heartfelt lyrics resonate deeply with listeners:

Tony Bennett (16:26): "I'll be loving you with a heart that's true always..."

Burn Bennett echoes the sentiment, enhancing the emotional impact:

Burn Bennett (16:27): "You."

The duet between Bennett and the band creates a moving and memorable performance.

The Cordettes’ "Eddie, My Love" with Count Basie

[18:45 - 21:17]
The Cordettes return, this time performing "Eddie, My Love," accompanied by Count Basie on the mic. Their harmonious voices blend seamlessly with Basie's smooth jazz stylings:

The Cordettes (19:03): "Eddie, my love, I love you so."

Basie interjects with heartfelt lines, adding depth to the performance:

Count Basie (19:16): "How I want it for you, you'll never know."

The interplay between the Cordettes and Basie highlights the collaborative spirit of the show.

Final Performance and Closing Remarks

[21:17 - 24:23]
The episode culminates with Count Basie’s renowned number "Jumpin' at the Woodside," a lively and upbeat track that perfectly encapsulates the excitement of the rock and roll dance party.

As the show draws to a close, the announcer delivers a heartfelt farewell:

Announcer (24:23): "Well, rock and rollers, we don't like to bring this mad session to an end. But time waits for no one. So drop around the same time station next week for a rock and good time with a rock and roll party. This is the United States Armed Forces Radio and Television."

Key Takeaways

• Alan Freed’s Nostalgic Hosting: Freed’s engaging and enthusiastic hosting style sets the tone for an evening filled with memorable performances.

• Star-Studded Lineup: Featuring legends like Count Basie, Joe Williams, Tony Bennett, and the Cordettes, the episode showcases a diverse range of musical talents that defined the Golden Age of Radio.

• Emotional and Upbeat Performances: The show balances soulful ballads with high-energy rock and roll numbers, catering to a wide array of musical tastes.

• Collaborative Spirit: Interactions between hosts and performers create a warm and inviting atmosphere, embodying the communal spirit of family radio gatherings.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Alan Freed (03:22): "Hey, folks, you ever notice how you can spot a really fine piece of music right from the start? Like those wonderful choruses by Joe Newman and Frank West."

• Tony Bennett (04:02): "I'm feeling so bad. I wish you'd make the music dreamy and sad."

• Burn Bennett (06:27): "Tony Bennett."

• Alan Freed (12:11): "Wonderful legacy of his orchestra. What an arrangement that is."

• Alan Freed (16:04): "Wonderful Joe Williams."

• Tony Bennett (16:26): "I'll be loving you with a heart that's true always..."

• Announcer (24:23): "Time waits for no one."

This episode of "Alan Freed's Rock 'n' Roll Dance Party" serves as a vibrant homage to the artists and music that shaped a generation. Through captivating performances and heartfelt interactions, Freed and his guests create an unforgettable auditory experience that celebrates the enduring legacy of rock and roll.