Trini and Vikki The Texas Hammers

Well folks I haven't blogged in a few days but I have been selling produce in 110 degree heat and taking occasional sabbaticals to Waco for tax free weekend. I had a fabulous reunion with a shopping mall! I know my title is channeling The Jim Adler "The Tough Texas Lawyer Hammer" commercials which incidentally I have not seen in ages! Anyway, turning across "This Old House" on the tube I thought " If I had a Hammer" Trini Lopez!  I know my mind is not normal what is normal hmmm?( Actually to be fair Peter Paul and Mary had a great version of this song too I heard Trinis version first though.) I think this song should be Bob Villas anthem for "This Old House" Or "Habitat for Humanity" because it has a great message to it! Anyway, Trini Lopez is a native Texan and He was originally from Oak Cliff. He had several songs including "Lemon Tree" and "Michael" His most famous though is "If I had a Hammer." Did you know that he was discovered by Frank Sinatra and is in The Las Vegas Legends Hall of Fame! ( Go Trini!)

Trini Lopez

I  know this song goes with the political climate of the 1960's but for me it is about  coming together and making a difference while we are here and being there for each other and loving and helping each other because that is what we are supposed to do! :) Well moving on to another native Texan I had to post about Vikki Carr. She is originally from El Paso and she lives in San Antonio now. She has also recorded many Spanish albums ( like Eydie Gorme and Linda Ronstadt) The first song I ever heard from her is "It must be him"  from 1967 and was nominated for 3 grammys.  She also has a wonderful version of " Can't take my eyes Off of you" Which was also done by Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons ( yes on the " I love you baby" part I am belting it out in my car!) I wonder if when Frankie Valli tours or goes on vacation if he stays at the Four Seasons and gets a discount for promoting it!

Vikki Carr " It must be Him but its not him..........."

 She is also a fabulous singer and entertainer who  has appeared on many variety programs including Bing Crosby's and she was one of the first female guest hosts on you know Heerrees Johnny!!! and has sang for 5 presidents. ( well I have sang for president Sanchez at Navarro and to be fair it was the whole choir! ;) Anyway, She has a star on the Hollywood walk of fame, has won 4 Grammys and has entertained around the world!! ( they both still entertain)  She and Trini both have done Humanitarian work and I thank them for not only being amazing entertainers but for making a difference in the world through themselves and music! :)

( I had to Post this this is Fabulous. It is Trini and Vikki singing " If I had a Hammer" from 1965!)


"I'd Hammer out love between my brothers and my sisters all over this land...." :)