not the same Auld Lang Syne: RIP Dan Fogelberg

Upon further review, I challenge your premise. If it's powerful and true, I submit it can't be schmaltz.

 

I don't think Dan's repertoire qualifies as schmaltz. Maybe Wayne Newton. Maybe some of Michael McDonald's solo stuff.

 

Only some?

 

OK, the term "sentimental" is often used derogatively ... I meant "schmaltz" in that respect ... sentimental stuff often gets sniffed at, but the best of it appeals to something visceral.
I don't know a whole bunch of Fogelberg songs. Even though I like "Same Auld Lang Syne" and "Leader of the Band," each has moments that I might call ... cloying?

 

I can accept "sentimental." I've never considered that a negative term. On the other hand, I've always heard the term "schmaltz" used as a negative.

 

I was trying to give him the benefit of the doubt.

 

He's recorded some truly awful dreck.

"Sweet Freedom" has to be the lamest theme song to a buddy cop movie ever.

 

He had a couple of good songs with the Doobies, but that was in spite of him, not because of him.

Not a Michael McDonald fan at all. Easily the worst of the "Bearded Balladeers" of the '80s (McDonald, Fogelberg, Kenny Loggins, James Ingram), although Loggins had his awful moments, too.

 

naw, the doobies sucked chode, too.

 

McDonald has had the ability to inspire with his voice. I've always liked his backing vocals and in "What a Fool Believes," he really lifted it up an octave or three.
His work with Steely Dan was, to me, really nice to listen to.
He's been behind the scenes for a lot of good gigs. He's made millions, I'm sure.
I liked "This Is It" by Loggins, or was it some other title to the song.
Good-sounding tune. Inspirational.

 

If McDonald died today, would he have this thread?
That beer-drinking weepie is a blight.

 

Fogelberg had a couple of big hit singles while McDonald moved around more and had his thumbprint on lots more projects.
McDonald would get mention here, for sure.
It's often a refined group that gathers here. Not always, but routinely.
Folks here know and appreciate McDonald's contribution.

Speaking of blights, Pam Ward is a blight on football announcing.
She spoke a minute ago about how Birmingham was "gussied up" for the holidays.
I understand what ESPN is trying to do by putting her in the booth, but I just don't like her schtick.

But back to thoughts on Fogelberg and others here.