Saturday 9

Blue Collar Man (1978)

Unfamiliar with this week's tune? Hear it here.

1) In this week's song, we hear a job equated with security. Tell us something that gives you a sense of security. Money. I know that sounds shallow, but it's true. I've had big dental bills lately and am looking at a home improvement project this month and I've been able to make these incremental bills without touching my emergency fund. I'm grateful. Besides, this answer gives me a chance to listen to this again. One of John's best vocals.

 

 

 

2) Lead singer Tommy Shaw hopes someone will make him an offer he can't refuse. That's a reference to a famous movie quote. Without looking it up, can you name the film? The Godfather, one of the greatest movies ever.

3) Shaw recalls that this song was inspired by a friend of his, a blue collar worker who had been laid off and was frustrated by the process of job hunting. His friend wanted to work, not fill out forms and job applications and wait days for a response! Do you quickly become impatient? Depends on who I'm dealing with. If you have fur, I am endlessly patient. If you walk upright and have no tail, you'll find me less so.

4) The name "Styx" wasn't the top choice of anyone in the band. As founding member Denis DeYoung recalled, "It was the only name none of us hated." Tell us about a recent compromise you made (which TV show to watch, toppings on your pizza, etc.). Working with Jamie on Friday morning. He and I agree on very little philosophically. But he is so enthusiastic and has such integrity that I'm always happy to meet him halfway.

5) Labor Day was introduced to celebrate the achievements of the American worker. How many different employers have you had? Ten. It's a good thing this will be my last job, since I am now out of fingers.

6) The first Waffle House was opened on Labor Day, 1955. What's your preference: waffles or pancakes? Waffles.

 

7) Labor Day mattress sales are a big business. Experts tells us we can expect to spend $1,000 for a good-quality queen-sized mattress. Will you be buying a new one -- or perhaps making another big ticket purchase for your home -- before year end? I'm having my living room window frame repaired later this month. It's about $750, I'm not unhappy. I didn't know repairing the frame was possible, and I was afraid I'd need new windows.

8) Will you be attending a Labor Day picnic or barbecue? Nope. I suppose I could reach out to Nancy and her husband, Paul, but I don't feel like it. I've been stressed at work and would like some solitary time. I'm kinda looking forward to sleeping a lot, going for long walks, and watching a lot of baseball.

9) Labor Day is the unofficial start of fall. Have you had any pumpkin spice yet? Not yet.