This is the first in a series! San Diego based musicians have been making a splash in the movies and television since the early days of the mediums. Here are ten fun examples, in this case, circa 1966 – 2009, with some of San Diego’s finest showcasing their music on the national and international scene.
- Stephen Bishop – Animal House (1978)
Bishop’s encounter with Bluto, aka John Belushi, is the stuff of legend. His cameo in this iconic Jon Landis film is brief but memorable, as he croons a bit of “The Riddle Song,” aka “I Gave My Love A Cherry,” at the start of the frat party.
- The Beat Farmers – Late Night With David Letterman (NBC / June 14, 1991)
It’s a great version of “Hideaway,” featuring the Beat Farmers teaming up with the World’s Most Dangerous band, including Paul Shaffer, Anton Fig and Will Lee. But the best part of the clip is Letterman’s comments about the band after their performance, high praise indeed.
- Jason Mraz – Sesame Street (PBS / December 24, 2009)
From Sesame Street Episode 4202, a recast version of “I’m Yours” is now, “Outdoors,” with Mraz almost upstaged by Elmo and appearances from other Sesame Street citizens. Technically a kids video, but still great.
- Gary Puckett & Nancy Sinatra – New Look (NBC / December 03, 1969)
A clip from comedian Jack Benny’s New Look TV special, featuring Gary Puckett & The Union Gap with Nancy Sinatra performing a version of Blood, Sweat & Tears hit “Spinning Wheel.” Sadly, the Union Gap get nary a closeup.
- Rocket From The Crypt – TFI Friday (Channel 4 UK / September 09, 1996)
There are several RFTC TV appearances from this time frame that are contenders for this list. We’ll start with this one, which includes a great band performance of “On A Rope,” cool set design, nice camera work, an enthusiastic crowd, and the host in a devil suit.
- The Monroes – The Merv Griffin Show (Syndicated TV / 1982)
Dated in all the right ways, this talk show appearance could be slotted into a Ron Burgundy movie. The Merv Griffin Show was a big deal at the time, giving the Monroes national exposure and helping make “What Do All The People Know,” a hit.
- Blink 182 – Mad TV (Fox / November 24, 2001)
Our only non-musical clip this time out. Blink 182 has made many TV appearances, but this is perhaps the most unique, featuring the trio, collectively, as the titular “Beaver” in this Mad-TV “Leave It To Beaver” parody.
- Iron Butterfly – Playboy After Dark (Syndicated TV / January 31, 1969)
Hugh Hefner’s “house of gadgets” party, includes the band playing “In A Gadda DA Vida” in the next room. Looks like a groovy shindig.
- The Hard Times – Where The Action Is (ABC, 1966)
Garage band greatness, complete with Dick Clark intro on this teen dance show. The band mimes to their version of Benny Spellman’s “Fortune Teller,” channeled via the Rolling Stones.
- Jesse Davis – Benji Takes a Dive at Marineland (ABC / May 10,1981)
Soul music legend Jesse Davis worked on several projects with movie star canine, Benji. “Can Dogs Survive,” includes hand puppets and a catchy Jimmy Buffet styled calypso tune.
