Review: “The History of Rock and Roll "
Photo Credits: Corey Krasko
Review: “The History of Rock and Roll "
By Shirley Jones
"The History of Rock and Roll" performers rocked the house on Saturday, April 21, 2012 at the Arkansas Best Performing Arts Center located in Fort Smith Arkansas.The show took the audience on a journey of rock and roll music featuring faculty and students from University of Fort Smith, popular artists from the community, and the Western Arkansas Ballet.
Don Bailey, director of jazz studies at UAFS, began his research for this monumental project in July 2011. Bailey selected 39 artist’s songs, which he used to compose "The History of Rock and Roll." Bailey then had to rewrite the original compositions to avoid copyright infringement. The new arrangements cannot contain more than four original notes in a row, which is a difficult task. Writing compositions with different lyrics and music, yet still making them recognizable was a challenge. Don's had some help along the way from his wife, Terri, also a UAFS faculty member, who spent time editing the work. Their son, Shane, who is an accomplished musician in his own right, composed five of the arrangements.
Baily selected many familiar artists who each had a significant impact in music history. The artists ranged in genre from country to metal with artists such as: Hank Williams Sr., Elvis Presley, The Platters, Count Basie, Little Richard, Beach Boys, Pink Floyd, Diana Ross, Rolling Stones, Janis Joplin,The Eagles, Michael Jackson, Lady Gaga, Eminem, Queen, Cold Play, Chicago, Metallica, Nirvana, Led Zeppelin, Black-eyed Peas, The Bee Gees, Journey, Kiss, The Doobie Brothers, NSYNC, Jimmi Hendrix, The Beatles, Radiohead, Santana and Robert Johnson.
The music was excellent and the talent showcased by the varied musicians was simply amazing. The Western Arkansas Ballet and the Fort Smith Symphony accompanied each song and the combination of dance and music was enjoyed by all. For me, that was like icing on the cake. I have to say this was the best concert I have ever attended.
Hats off to you, Don, Terri, and Shane Bailey for all of your hard work and talent presented at the "History of Rock and Roll." performance. Also, to the Ft. Smith Symphony, Western Arkansas Ballet, performers and faculty of UAFS, great job to all of you.
