Scott, Karl, and Trent introduce us to the genius of Les Paul.

Best known for the solid-body electric guitar, Les Paul was a prolific inventor and tinkerer.

He also developed many of the techniques that formed the backbone of modern music recording, including multitracking, overdubbing, and tape effects. Scott says, "He's an interesting kind of genius because of the way it all came about."

Les Paul will always hold a special place in the pantheon of American musical greats. Tune in for more music and ideas, brought to you by onlinegreatbooks.com. 

Have you ever thought about what makes a pop song tick?

This week, Scott, Karl, and Trent analyze the lyrics in some of the biggest pop hits from different eras of American music.

The trio discusses the various levels a pop song can operate on. Trent says, "There are songs that have a subtext to them that belies their exterior... Pop songs can connect with people in a very immediate and visceral way, but can also open them up to the whole human experience."

Has pop music lyrics moved from submissive to obvious and banal? Tune in to more music and ideas, brought to you by onlinegreatbooks.com. 

This week, Scott, Karl, and Trent talk about the different instruments of the orchestra. 

A Symphony Orchestra is defined as a large ensemble composed of wind, string, brass, and percussion instruments and organized to perform classical music. Karl says, "It's one thing to have a melody, but really that's not where it's at. It's who plays the melody." 

The trio dives into the different voices in an orchestra that can produce such a rich, well-blended sound. Tune in for more music and ideas, brought to you by onlinegreatbooks.com. 

What We Mention:

Two Set Violin

Sir Mashalot Bro-Country Mashup