Michael Brown was 16 when he wrote this and Walk Away Renee. They were about his bandmate's girlfriend, Renee Fladen. The singer Steve Martin (Caro) was 18 when they did these songs. He had a really good voice. You should definitely check out Walk Away Renee. Both songs are beautiful, but Pretty Ballerina is stunning having been written in the Lydian Mode. It gives it that melancholy.
How could I ever forgotten this group and song? I guess when you grow up with a musician mom, your mind is filled with so much music it's hard to remember it all. Hey now, that's my story and I'm sticking to it. Thanks requester and Shawn for this reaction. Blessings for bringing this beautiful song back to me.
Loved this reaction, thanks so much Shawn😊💛 I haven’t known this song very long (it was before my time) but it’s one of my favorites ever. I interpreted the contradiction in the lyrics the same way you did. Sadly all the original members of The Left Banke have passed away…the last one, Tom Finn, four years ago. He actually commented (eight years ago) on the video you reacted to.
Love this song and your reaction! They also had a hit in 1966 “Walk Away Renee” which is the only song that I know of with my name in it☺️. Really enjoying your channel.
Great choice Shawn! One of my favorite songs from 1967! Should have made the top 5 on Billboard. Really under-appreciated! The only issue I have with the song is (as is with most great songs from the 60's... TOO SHORT!!
Yes, Walk Away Renee was the biggest hit, but I loved this song, too. Around 66 or 67 when the Beach Boys and the Beatles gave the world permission to begin the progressive rock movement there was a huge rush of bands that were really innovative. Some classically trained musicians began putting out beautiful songs like this. Procol Harum took this sort of innovation much further.
This makes me think of the Moody Blues, and It's a Beautiful Day, oddly enough. It has always enchanted me, as much as the beautiful ballerina I worked with at the time I heard this song. I wish I could have done more than dance with her a few times. I'm not talking about you-know-what. Oh, well. Life goes on... I like this song better than Walk away Renee.
Oh my goodness! You snuck in some Sunshine Pop for us. Sunshine is a little like bubblegum but different in ways I won't bring up because it might start an argument. But I sure do love this genre of music.
