The Contours- Shake Sherry/You Better Get In Line

I finally took the plunge on a new computer. Over the years I’ve owned just about every major brand, but the last two have been Samsung. The one I’m typing on right now has been my favorite computer of all time—steady, loyal, and only occasionally acting like it needs a nap. Lately, though, it’s been giving me little fits, so I’m retiring it to the noble realm of recording songs, where computers go to live out their golden years.

Naturally, you’d assume I bought another Samsung. Naturally, you’d be wrong.

I bought a newer Samsung about five years ago,when this machine needed some repairs on the plugin and I thought it was done for. The newer Samsung was so uninspiring it’s been demoted to backup duty—basically the bullpen pitcher who only comes in when the starter’s arm falls off.

But back to the new machine.  I’ve been impressed with my work ThinkPad and with its versatility. So for the last few months I spent alot of time browsing Lenovo’s site and a few other retailers like a man studying ancient scrolls, trying to find a machine that can keep up with my multitasking chaos. Best Buy had some tempting options, but then I learned many were third‑party “upgrades” that souped up those machines but they void the warranty- an exciting gamble I did not feel like taking. Hard pass.

I finally narrowed my choices, and on Sunday I decided to take the plunge — nothing dramatic, of course, just the kind of move that suggests I’ve quietly known what I was doing all along.  I tried to buy my chosen machine on the Lenovo site- Payment failed. WTF. I left it in the cart with all the smooth patience of someone giving it space to come to its senses, and it repaid me by acting like I was the problem. Monday I log in and—bam—Lenovo drops the price by almost $200. Apparently, they missed me.I called them and they sorted out the payment issue — graciously confirming it was their mess, not mine — and I ordered it immediately. It arrives today, and I’m fully prepared to ride this thing like a speed‑freaking‑machine, with the calm composure of someone who absolutely intends to cause a little stylish chaos.

As for today’s 45: The Contours - Criminally underrated group released a lot of quality sides, some covered by other groups, and this one was their second‑highest Billboard hit (#43 pop, #21 R&B), and it should’ve charted higher. It deserved more love. I always see Contours 45s out in the wild, but it’s always the same handful. So, enjoy Sherry Shake, a double‑sided soul groover while I wait for my new digital hot rod to show up.