A classic from 1957. Santa Catalina is an island located about 45 miles southwest of downtown Los Angeles, approximately 26 miles from the coast.

One of my favorite summer-themed songs. This is the theme from the 1966 documentary of the same name, which follows two surfers as they "follow summer" around the world finding new surfing spots and introducing others to it along the way. It's a fun watch even if you're not really into surfing.

And not forgetting ( 24 Miles From Tulsa ) by Gene Pitney...

A newer version of a John Denver classic by a Dutch band. This was a big hit in several European countries in 2001 and even hit #7 in the UK.

Hold my Hand  was recorded in 1953,  by singer Don Cornell.  It was featured in the movie, "Susan Slept Here", starring Debbie Reynolds.  The song  was nominated for an Academy Award, for best song from a movie.  Although it didn't win the Oscar it was on the hit parade for many weeks.  I had forgotten all about it, but was recently reminded of it after all these years.  Great lyrics.

A fun one from Jan and Dean from 1964. The Beach Boys hit "Catch a Wave" with new lyrics related to skateboarding, which apparently was a relatively new thing at the time - complete with the duo's typical humorous lyrics.

Another great lost. Sly Stone, Brian Wilson and now Lou Christie. This was his second single, first top 10 hit and second highest charting song (behind the iconic "Lightnin' Strikes" from 1966). This hit #6 in the US and #3 in Canada in 1963.

Last post from me for a while as I'll be on vacation for the next week. This was recorded as a tribute to Del Shannon, who died from suicide likely caused by the antidepressants he was taking at the time, at the age of 55 in 1990. The Traveling Wilburys were a supergroup consisting of George Harrison, Jeff Lynne (lead singer of Electric Light Orchestra), Tom Petty and Bob Dylan. Roy Orbison was also a member before he died. This was arguably Del Shannon's biggest hit, peaking at #1 on both sides of the pond and in the top 5 in several other countries in 1961.

Michael,  Have a great time on your vacation!  Hope you're finding some new and exciting Rollercoasters to ride?  If so, send us a photo!     In the meantime, we'll keep things moving along here.   I liked that recording of "Runaway", by The Traveling Wilburys.  I remember way back in '61, when the original recording by Del Shannon was such a huge hit, and American Bandstand was on TV every afternoon.     

I just had to do this ---