Side 3: Track 12 – “With Pen In Hand” – Billy Vera

Billy Vera is a man who has seemingly fit a dozen lifetimes into one. His journey spans from topping the charts and earning thunderous ovations at the Apollo with singing partner Judy Clay, to forging lifelong songwriting partnerships with both Chip Taylor and Lou Rawls. Even when the rug was swept out from under him, he consistently reinvented himself—first at Jerry Wexler’s recommendation by covering “With Pen In Hand,” and later building a successful radio career. When Dolly Parton took his song “I Really Got the Feeling” to the top of the charts, it provided the ultimate lifeline, setting the stage for a massive singing comeback with “At This Moment.” After the ballad was prominently featured in the blockbuster movie Blind Date, its global success allowed him to reunite with his old friend, producer Tommy Dowd, twenty-plus years later. Together, they crafted the 1988 album Retro Nuevo, bringing the legendary Arif Mardin back into the fold to work his magic on the arrangements and bring Billy's remarkable journey entirely full circle. Join Dana, Adam, and Joe as we sit down with Billy to discuss his incredible career as a ballad crooner, songwriter, and producer. We also dive into the vast knowledge that has made him a foremost music historian, which ultimately sparked a deep-rooted friendship with Joel Dorn.