La Fin de la Semaine Essay Question: Special "But First, Steve Gets Serious for a Moment" Edition

I really don't know what to say.

From Showbiz 411

Denny Laine, former member of the Moody Blues and Paul McCartney’s Wings, is apparently very ill.

His wife, Elizabeth, has set up a GO FUND ME PAGE to raise $100,000.

Elizabeth says:

"For the past two months, he’s been in and out of the hospital concerning an illness in his lungs that developed after his short bout with COVID last year. He’s had multiple tests, X-rays and scans that are ongoing, along with three surgeries, most recently for a collapsed lung, which includes an inserted chest tube that is temporarily needed until his lung heals. He recently contracted a bacterial infection in his blood, which he is still battling, but seems to be under control.”

Denny Laine started with the Moody Blues in the 60s and had a massive hit with them called “Go Now.” In 1972 he joined Paul and Linda McCartney in Wings. He was an essential part of the group all through the 70s, especially on “Band on the Run.” He co-wrote several songs with McCartney including the monster hit, “Mull of Kintyre.”

It’s unclear why Denny doesn’t have enough money from royalties or isn’t on Medicare. But apparently he doesn’t. I would hope MusiCares would step in from the Recording Academy. But no one puts up a GoFundMe page unless they are desperate.

Elizabeth adds:

“The doctors have explained once he’s medically well, he will need several weeks of physical and occupational rehabilitation. Denny does not have medical insurance. The hospital has been working with us regarding this problem, but a rehabilitation center, along with the multiple lab work and specialists, will not. I’m asking for financial help to get Denny the medical care and recovery time he requires. It’s important he concentrates on healing during this time. Our goal is to have Gypsy Den home in time for his birthday, October 29. He wants to be able to play his guitar again, presently, he’s too weak.”

I repeat -- I really don't know what to say. Except that you'd think Paul McCartney might give him a hand. In any event, if you can spare a little coin, hie thee to the Go Fund Me page at the above link.

Laine, of course, is one of my heroes. Longtime readers are aware that I am so enamored of this oh-so-sad-and-beautiful song -- "Boulevard de la Madeleine" -- that he wrote and sang with the Moodys (presented here in stereo for the first time, you're welcome very much)...

...that on our first trip to Paris, a certain Shady Dame and I actually made a pilgrimage to the street in question.

Okay, let's move on now to the happier business of a weekend essay question. To wit (and as you doubtless guessed from the subjects of the week's previous entries):

...and your favorite (or least favorite) post-Elvis pop/rock song title, or song lyric referencing a specific geograhic location or travel in general is...?

Discuss.

No arbitrary rules, but if anybody nominates the Boston Pops, I will come to their home and pummel them savagely.

I should add that I posted something similar to this back in 2009(!), when both this blog and the world were young, but hey -- I'm getting old. Cut me some slack, jack.

Also, and in case you're wondering, my vote goes to The Weasels' ode to the hippest street in Teaneck, New Jersey. Hell -- in all of Bergen County. "Oh! Cedar Lane."

Have a great weekend, everybody!!!

[h/t Steve Schwartz]