On Rita Coolidge’s birthday, here she is singing “Superstar.”

Next to the word ‘beautiful’ in the dictionary, there should be a link to Rita singing this song. And yes, I understand it would have to be an online dictionary.

Here’s a great one from birthday boy Willie Nelson. “Blues Eyes Cryin’ in the Rain” has always been one of my favorite Willie tunes.

This one also demonstrates how underrated Willie is as a guitar player.

As we celebrate Dave Edmunds’ birthday, let’s watch Rockpile perform the Elvis Costello ditty, “Girls Talk.”

Since we’re celebrating Leon’s birthday, I just found this “Roll Over Beethoven” video from 1964. Wow does he look young!

I love me some Leon Russell!

This cat is uniquely amazing, from his beautifully distinctive voice to  the brilliant songwriting and outstanding piano playing.

He’s played with more diverse artists than anyone I can think of, from the Rolling Stones to Frank Sinatra and all points in between.

Leon has done so many things that make my heart sing, but none more than the Mad Dogs & Englishmen tour he orchestrated with Joe Cocker and Rita Coolidge.

Here he is playing one of my favorites, “Stranger in a Strange Land.” The title pretty much sums up the way I’ve always viewed my life

Since today is Slowhand’s 67th birthday, let’s watch him play Bob Marley’s classic, “I Shot the Sheriff.” Please click here if you cannot see the video.

Check out Eric’s smokin’ solo about five minutes into the song.

Another one for Elton’s birthday.  Here he is performing “Come Together.”

Let’s celebrate Sir Elton John’s 65th birthday by watching him play “Bennie and the Jets” with Billy Joel.

Please click here if you cannot see the video.

As we wish a happy 70th birthday to Aretha Franklin, let’s watch her sing one of my favorites, “I Say a Little Prayer.”

Enjoy.

As we bid him a happy birthday, let’s watch Phil Lesh & Friends perform one of my all-time favorite Dead songs, “Franklin’s Tower.”