“Handy Man” (Jimmy Jones/Del Shannon/James Taylor)

Handy Man, James Taylor

Today’s classic “man” song of the day is about a “Handy Man.” This tune was a hit for three different artists—Jimmy Jones, Del Shannon, and James Taylor. Who wrote “Handy Man” is up for debate. The original recording, released in 1959 by the Sparks of Rhythm, lists Andrew Barksdale and Charles Merenstein as writers. That version was in a bluesy…

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“Magic Man” (Heart)

Magic Man, Heart

This week we’re featuring songs about specific types of men. Today’s classic man song of the day is about a “Magic Man,” as performed by Heart. Heart was led by sisters Ann and Nancy Wilson from Seattle. Ann sang, Nancy played guitar. They were a phenomenon back in the mid-70s, female hard rockers in what was traditionally a testosterone-laden landscape.…

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“When You’re Young and In Love” (Ruby and the Romantics/Marvelettes/Flying Pickets)

When You're Young and In Love, Marvelettes

Today’s classic song of the day was a hit for two different artists in the ’60s—and a British a cappella group in the ’80s. The song is “When You’re Young and In Love,” and it was written by Van McCoy, who would make a name for himself in the ’70s with the iconic disco tune “The Hustle.” McCoy had been…

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“The Sun Ain’t Gonna Shine (Anymore)” (The Walker Brothers)

The Sun Ain't Gonna Shine Anymore, Walker Brothers

Today’s classic song of the day is “The Sun Ain’t Gonna Shine (Anymore)” by the Walker Brothers. This single was released in February of 1966 and peaked at #13 on the Billboard Hot 100. “The Sun Ain’t Gonna Shine (Anymore)” was written by Bob Crewe and Bob Gaudio of the Four Seasons. The Bobs first offered the song to bandmate…

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