Wednesday, May 15, 2025: 10,000 Maniacs - Verdi Cries

Born on October 10, 1813, in Le Roncole, a small village near Busseto, Giuseppe Verdi (1813–1901) came from humble beginnings—his father was an innkeeper and grocer, his mother a spinner.  Though largely self-taught, he received music training in Busseto and later studied in Milan. He was rejected from the Milan Conservatory but continued private studies.

Early in his life, Verdi faced devastating losses. His first wife, Margherita Barezzi, and their two young children died within a short period (1838–1840). These tragedies nearly caused him to abandon music. He later formed a lifelong partnership with soprano Giuseppina Strepponi, marrying her in 1859 after years of living together. She had been an early supporter of his work.

In later years, Verdi retired to his estate in Sant’Agata, enjoying a quiet rural life. He remained active in charitable causes, notably founding a home for retired musicians (Casa di Riposo per Musicisti) in Miln.

And, sometimes, Verdi cried. 

Monday, February 6, 2012: 10,000 Maniacs - These Are Days

These are days you'll remember.
Never before and never since, I promise, will the whole world be warm as this.
And as you feel it, you'll know it's true that you are blessed and lucky.
It's true that you are touched by something that will grow and bloom in you.

These are days you'll remember.
When May is rushing over you with desire to be part of the miracles you see in every hour.
You'll know it's true that you are blessed and lucky.
It's true that you are touched by something that will grow and bloom in you.

These are days.

These are the days you might fill with laughter until you break.
These days you might feel a shaft of light make its way across your face.
And when you do you'll know how it was meant to be.

See the signs and know their meaning.
It's true, you'll know how it was meant to be.
Hear the signs and know they're speaking to you, to you.