A dirty and nasty joke of John's that even he didn't much care for, "Mean Mr. Mustard" seemed an odd song to come out of the group's Indian spiritual retreat. It also seemed inappropriate for the rock n' roll concert that was to become Let It Be. But it fit the sad and snarky Abbey Road like a charm. Read all about the history and recording of "Mean Mr. Mustard" in my latest Beatles fact sheet.

It's that time of year again, finally! Are you ready for the summer? Here's ten compilations that'll slake your thirst for surf, drag, shag, soul, pop, and almost any other summer smashes you might crave... compare prices, read the tracklistings, hear samples, and if you like, buy them for the lowest possible price. Start assembling your summer playlist right here!

She's always been known for playing her personal life close to the vest, but 71-year-old Aretha Franklin is obviously having some medical issues: she's been forced to cancel two upcoming shows on May 20 and 26. R&B star Janelle Monáe has been called in to replace The Queen of Soul, or to attempt it, anyway, for her upcoming show with the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, citing merely "doctor's recommendation for treatment." Connecticut's Foxwoods Resort Casino, meanwhile, told Reuters only that her upcoming show was "canceled for medical reasons." Ever since Aretha canceled an entire tour three years ago, rumors have run rampant about what her issues might be; the most popular suggestions are pancreatic cancer and lap-band weight loss surgery. Franklin is still scheduled for June performances in Canada and Michigan.

She deserves some special music on her special day, so open up this playlist of classic songs about mothers, motherly advice, and motherly love... an original playlist of songs for Mother's Day or any time you'd like to show Mom what she means to you. The mp3s on this Mother's Day playlist are available right here!