Happy Birthday, John!

John Ettline was born 113 years ago

on the 12th day of March, 1906.

John was a card shark, a gambler, and a wheeler dealer, a larger-than-life
type of person, a colorful, loveable, and memorable character. John cared
about people and about kids. As a member of his family once told me,
"John was loved and respected by everyone he came in contact with,
especially his family. He offered love, guidance and advice to
anyone who would give him the respect and listen.”

John also loved music and dancing, and to celebrate his birthday

this year I selected two up tempo dance songs and a sweet ballad.

 FRED CLARK 

First here's a number found on the various artists compilation Mark Lamarr
Presents Mule Milk 'N' Firewater, a collection of obscure R&B recordings
from the late 40s to early 60s culled from the vaults of the King,
Federal and Deluxe R&B labels. It's saxophonist Fred Clark
who played with Johnny Otis and His Orchestra doing
an unreleased nugget called "Bobby Sox Rocker."

"Bobby Sox Rocker" - Fred Clark

(circa 1953, unissued Take 2)

 BOBBY FREEMAN 

Now that Fred Clark's "Bobby Sox Rocker" has the joint jumpin'...
singer and showman Bobby Freeman is ready to take the stage and
ask the musical question "Do You Want To Dance?" In this vintage
clip, Bobby shares the spotlight with a boppin' baby elephant as
he performs his top 5 hit from the spring and summer of 1958.

"Do You Want To Dance" - Bobby Freeman

(May thru July 1958, highest chart pos. #5 Hot 100/#2 R&B)

 SHELLEY FABARES 

On his birthday I think John will appreciate being serenaded by

America's sweetheart, Miss Shelley Fabares aka Mary Stone,

as she sings her signature song "Johnny Angel" on her hit

television series, the family friendly Donna Reed Show.

"Johnny Angel" - Shelley Fabares

(Mar./Apr. 1962, highest chart pos. #1

scene from The Donna Reed Show)

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, JOHN.

WE LOVE YOU AND MISS YOU!