In memory of Kelly Groucutt

Kelly Groucutt, former ELO bass died at age 63 on February 20, 2009. In his honor, I thought it would briefly talk about my favorite ELO song, ‘Mr. Blue Sky’.

It wasn’t always my favorite. ‘Don’t Bring Me Down’ used to top my list. ‘Turn to Stone’ was up there too. ‘Mr. Blue Sky’ gained quick popularity on my playlist after a particularly great episode of Doctor Who.

In it, a young man named Elton is part of a group obsessed with the Doctor. More than a group of alien-hunting loonies, they form an ELO coverband. The band’s music is featured prominently throughout, but it’s in the context of the story that ‘Mr. Blue Sky’ took on a new life for me.

As for the song itself, it’s a masterpiece of prog-pop. From it’s many Beatle-esque turns, to ELO’s signature use of strings and synths.

Listen to the song:

[audio:http://www.stephenbailey.com/audio/elo/11 Mr. Blue Sky.mp3|autostart=no]

Watch clips from Doctor Who:

Doctor Who: Love & Monsters
Season: 2
Episode: 10
First Aired: 6/17/2006

So, what is your favorite ELO song and why?