From Natasha Bedingfield to Alicia Keys to Kelly Clarkson, women are taking over the adult contemporary charts like never before. The last time I saw this phenomenon must have been back in the early 70s when female soloists - many songwriters themselves - saw unprecedented success. Carly Simon (pictured) was a prime example. Her hit "Haven't Got Time for the Pain" from '74 remains a favorite of mine, even if it wasn't her biggest song. The Carpenters brought great songs written by others to millions of listeners back then, including one written by Carole King called "It's Going to Take Some Time." For some reason, I still turn that one up. Back then, I didn't think it was too cool to admit liking some of this. I was as much of a fan of hard rockin' supergroups as any 20-year-old guy was in the 70s, but the women of that era left a lasting impression too. The more recent version of "Killing Me Softly" by the Fugees is great, but Roberta Flack added a special touch to that tune. Sheryl Crow seems to bridge the gap between that earlier time and now. Maybe she started this latest wave, but enjoy it while it lasts.
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