SONG OF THE DAY

“A Well-Respected Man” by The Kinks (Kywet Kinks, Reprise Records, 1965).

INTERESTING FACTS (a la wikipedia)

– It was released as a single in the US in October and reached #13.

– Musically, it marked the beginning of an expansion in the Kinks’ inspirations, drawing much from British music hall traditions, as well as from American rhythm-and-blues used later in songs such as “Dedicated Follower of Fashion”.

– Following the success of that single, “A Well Respected Man” was also released as a single in mainland Europe in March 1966.

– It was one of three Kinks songs included on The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame’s list of the 500 Songs That Shaped Rock and Roll along with “You Really Got Me” and “Lola”.

– Davies composed the song based on a negative experience with upper class guests at a luxury resort where he was staying in 1965. He crafted the song to mock what he perceived as their condescension and self-satisfaction.

– The song was recently featured in the 2007 film Juno and its award-winning soundtrack.

– The song can be heard during the end credits of the 2004 film The Life and Death of Peter Sellers.

– The song can also be heard in the Homicide: Life on the Street episode, “Colors”.