Episodes

  • 1993 - January - Stone Temple Pilots “Core”

    1993 - January - Stone Temple Pilots “Core”
    May 6 2024
    Stone Temple Pilots, often abbreviated as STP, burst onto the rock scene in the early 1990's, becoming one of the most commercially successful bands of that era. Their debut album, Core, was released in late September 1992, and we're highlighting it in January 1993 when many of their hits were on the charts.The DeLeo brothers form the heart of the band: Dean DeLeo's guitar work provides the sonic foundation, and Robert DeLeo's bass playing adds a groove to the band's sound. Eric Kretz anchors the rhythm section on percussion. And front man Scott Weiland completes the lineup with his charismatic presence and distinctive vocal style. Weiland's emotion and raw energy helped make "Core" a pivotal release in the grunge movement."Core" hit he airwaves with a sonic explosion, with an energy that captured the angst and spirit of the early 90's grunge movement. Several tracks from this album would become anthems of the 90's generation, led by tracks like "Plush" and "Sex Type Thing." Despite its commercial success (reaching number 3 on the Billboard 200), "Core" was initially met with poor critical reviews, with many critics considering it too derivative of other grunge artists like Nirvana and Pearl Jam. Over time, however, "Core" would receive more positive reviews as it took its place as a seminal release of the grunge movement.Lynch takes us on this journey back to 1993, when the Stone Temple Pilots were introducing themselves to the world. CreepThis song is a slower, more introspective track that highlights the band's grunge influences. The lyrics deal with feelings of isolation and alienation, with Weiland delivering a haunting vocal performance. The acoustic arrangement is a nice contrast to the heavier tracks of the album.Sex Type ThingThe opening track to the album features an aggressive guitar riff and a powerful vocal performance from Weiland. It was controversial due to its lyrical content, which is written from the perspective of a rapist. Despite the controversy (or perhaps because of it) “Sex Type Thing” became one of STP's most recognized songs.PlushThis track is arguably the most famous song from the album. “Plush” showcases STP's softer side with its acoustic guitar intro and catchy chorus. Weiland's lyrics were inspired by a news story about a woman who was found dead in San Diego, adding a layer of mystery and intrigue to the song. The video for "Plush" won the band an MTV Video Music Award for Best New Artist and features the band playing in various desert scenes.Wicked GardenA hard-hitting rock track known for its gritty guitar riff and energetic chorus, this may be considered a deeper cut. The song deals with the loss of innocence and the darker side of human nature, themes that recur throughout the album. Over time “Wicked Garden” has become a fan favorite and a staple of STP's live shows. ENTERTAINMENT TRACK:Main theme to Star Trek: Deep Space NineThe third entry into the Star Trek franchise takes place on a fixed space station near the border of the Federation. It had its debut in January of 1993. STAFF PICKS:Love Is On the Way by Saigon KickBruce leads off the staff picks with a one hit wonder. Miami-based Saigon Kick released this single from their second album, "The Lizard," and it went to number 12 on the Billboard Hot 100. Jason Bieler provides guitar, keyboards, and backing vocals for the band, and wrote this song. Lead vocals are provided by Matt Kramer. Additional band members were Tom DeFile on bass and Phil Varone on percussion. Regret by New OrderRob brings us the lead song from New Order's sixth studio album, "Republic." The single went to number 28 on the Billboard Hot 100. New Order formed from the remnants of the band Joy Division. The album was made in order to save the Hacienda - a Manchester club part owned by the band. Teen Angst (What the World Needs Now) by CrackerWayne's staff pick is from Cracker's debut album, and features catchy, clever, ironic songs. The lyrics take a swipe at late 80's and early 90's folk rock songs. Interestingly, the lyrics do not include the words "Teen Angst." The track got airplay on alternative radio stations, and went to number 1 on the new Billboard "Modern Rock" chart.All Apologies by NirvanaLynch closes out the staff picks with one of Nirvana's most poignant and introspective works from their third and final studio album "In Utero." Songwriter and front man Kurt Cobain describes the song as a tribute to his wife and daughter, but it took on significance as a farewell note of sorts after Cobain's death. COMEDY TRACK:Bedrock Anthem by "Weird Al" YankovicWeird Al channels a couple of well-known songs from the Red Hot Chili Peppers for this prehistoric parody. Thanks for listening to “What the Riff?!?” NOTE: To adjust the loudness of the music or voices, you may adjust the balance on your device. VOICES are stronger in the LEFT channel, and MUSIC is ...
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    42 mins
  • 1984 - October: Steve Perry “Street Talk”

    1984 - October: Steve Perry “Street Talk”
    Apr 29 2024
    It will come as no surprise to regular listeners of this podcast that we are all big fans of Steve Perry, the chief vocalist of Journey. So it should also not come as a surprise that we would want to feature his debut solo studio album called Street Talk. Perry embarked on this solo project shortly after the release of Journey's "Frontiers" album, at a time when the group was packing arenas around the world. The name of the album comes from his pre-Journey days when he was leading a band called Alien Project - but he had at one time considered naming it, "Street Talk." Perry also used Craig Krampf as drummer, who was also a previous member of Alien Project.The album obviously has similarities to Journey due to Perry's vocals, but it is significantly softer than the more pop rock/hard rock approach typical of Journey. The songs are written or co-written by Perry, and showcase Perry's voice in a more ballad-heavy manner. The lead single, “Oh Sherrie,” was written about his relationship with Perry's then-girlfriend Sherrie Swafford, and hit number 3 on the Billboard Hot 100. We covered “Oh Sherrie” on episode #148, but there are three other singles that broke into the top 40, powering the album to number 12 on the Billboard 200 album charts and to 2x Platinum in sales.Perry had worked outside of Journey during his tenure with the band, including vocal work with both Sammy Hagar and Kenny Loggins. Other members of the band were also working on side projects, so it was expected that all would return to the group after their separate projects. Perry followed suit, this, but troubles began to surface with personnel changes and Perry's mother's failing health causing the "Raised on Radio" Journey album to be delayed.Street Talk gives us a good look at Steve Perry outside of the rest of the Journey band members, during a time when Perry was at the top of his vocal game.Rob brings us this excellent album for today's podcast.She's MineThe track that starts side two is a slow rocker that demonstrates Perry's versatility in musical styles. The lyrics describe a struggle between a guy and his rival over a girl. It made it to number 21 on the US charts - and you can't go wrong with a sax. Captured By the MomentThis song is deeper lyrically, with Perry looking at significant times in history and music as snapshots in a frame. He pays tribute to some key figures from the 60s and 70s including Martin Luther King Jr, Jackie Kennedy, the Beatles, Janis Joplin, Jimi Hendrix, and others. It has a distinctive 80's keyboard sound. Foolish HeartA subdued piece, this track is the second-biggest hit from the album after "Oh, Sherrie." The lyrics depict a guy longing for love, but who does not trust his heart to make good choices. It was co-written with Randy Goodrum, who wrote "You Needed Me" for Anne Murray. It was the last single released from the album. Strung OutThis faster paced track closes out the album, and discusses love from the perspective of a guy longing for a woman in a relationship with another. "I feel like Bogart in a crazy movie. Bogie and me, we never beg - but this time maybe I've got voices in my head." ENTERTAINMENT TRACK:Main theme from the television series “Who's the Boss?”Tony Danza plays a former baseball athlete trying to raise his daughter while working as a live-in housekeeper for a single advertising executive. Alyssa Milano played Danza's daughter. STAFF PICKS:I Wanna Rock by Twisted Sister Wayne kicks off the staff picks with glam rock sensation Twisted Sister in their follow-up to "We're Not Gonna Take It." Many listeners may be more familiar with a cover of this song performed by SpongeBob SquarePants in "The SpongeBob SquarePants Movie" entitled "Goofy Goober Rock."For Whom the Bell Tolls by MetallicaLynch brings us a signature song from Metallica's 1984 album, "Ride the Lightning." The heavy riffs typical of Metallica are accented by the toll of chimes, and the lyrics are inspired by Ernest Hemmingway's novel of the same name dealing with war, death, and fate set in the Spanish Civil War.Hard Habit to Break by Chicago Bruce takes the tempo way down with a hit off Chicago 17. Vocal duties are carried by Bill Champlin and Peter Cetera, and the song is arranged by David Foster. The lyrics depict a man struggling to get over a long lost love whom he took for granted. Chicago 17 is Chicago's best selling album, and their last with Peter Cetera in the group.No More Lonely Nights by Paul McCartney Rob closes out the staff picks with a single from the soundtrack to McCartney’s film, "Give My Regards to Broad Street." McCartney brings in Pink Floyd alumnus David Gilmour for guitar work on this song. Gilmour requested that his session fee be donated to a charity of Paul's choice. It went to number 6 on the Billboard Hot 100. INSTRUMENTAL TRACK:Zoolookologie by Jean Michel JarreWe close out on a jazz fusion number from...
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    39 mins
  • 1975 - July: Outlaws “The Outlaws”

    1975 - July: Outlaws “The Outlaws”
    Apr 22 2024
    The Outlaws had a long history as a band prior to the release of this debut album. Formed originally in 1967 in Tampa, Florida, the original name for the group was "The Four Letter Words." They toured off and on through the early 70's, and made an aborted attempt at an album the late 60's. Finally, they were signed by Clive Davis and Arista Records while opening for Lynyrd Skynyrd. Ronnie Van Zant told Davis and future Outlaws manager Charlie Brusco, "If you don't sign Outlaws, you're the dumbest music person I've ever met - and I know you're not."The debut and eponymously named album Outlaws would blend Southern rock with Country and hard rock, and would create a great concert draw for the band. Their use of three guitars would come to be known as "the Florida Guitar Army." Hughie Thomasson and Billy Jones both provided lead guitar and vocals, and Henry Paul would provide further electric and acoustic guitar as well as vocals. Monte Yoho on drums and Frank O'Keefe on bass would round out the group.While there's definitely a Southern Rock feel to the Outlaws, there is also a lot of Country and even bluegrass mixed in. The technical chops are impressive, and there is a lot of harmony employed in the group as well. The album would peak at number 13 on the Billboard Top LP's & Tape chart.Wayne takes us through this guitar-driven Southern Rock album for this week's podcast. WaterholeThis instrumental song leads off side two of the album, and has a bluegrass feel. It is the opening track to side two of the album.There Goes Another Love SongThe hit single on the album also is the leading track. It peaked at number 34 on the Billboard Hot 100, and features Hughie Thomasson on lead vocals. The lyrics depict a guy on the road who is missing his faraway love, and seems to encounter love songs one after another.Song for YouThis may appear to be an instrumental at first because of the long intro before the vocals come in. The lyrics reflect a guy who is breaking a girl's heart, but can't seem to avoid doing so. There are some great harmonies in this track.Green Grass and High TidesThe last song on the album is a true epic. The album version is almost 10 minutes long, but has been stretched to 30-minute versions in concert jams. Hughie Thomasson conceived the album while at a beach cookout and imagining all the rock greats who had passed on rising from the grave to play a show. The name comes from a Rolling Stones' "Best of" album title. ENTERTAINMENT TRACK:Main theme from the motion picture “The Apple Dumpling Gang”Walt Disney Productions put out this comedy western about a gambler tricked into taking care of a group of orphans. Bill Bixby, Don Knotts, and Tim Conway star in this movie. STAFF PICKS:One of These Nights by the EaglesLynch starts off the staff picks with a song penned by the duo of Glenn Frey and Don Henley. It became the second number 1 single for the group in the US, behind "Best of My Love." This track takes inspiration from soul music like Al Green and B.B. King, and has been described as an anthem for procrastinators and dreamers. Blue Sky by Joan BaezRob profiles a cover song originally performed by the Allman Brothers on their 1972 album, "Eat a Peach." Originally written by Dickey Betts about his girlfriend Sandy "Bluesky" Wabegijig, Baez covers this on her 1975 album "Diamonds & Rust." If it sounds familiar to you, Baez is actually backed up by the Allman Brothers Band for this single.Landslide by Fleetwood MacBruce features a song written by Stevie Nicks at a time when she was considering whether to continue to pursue life as a musician or give up her dream and go back to school. Despite its popularity today, the song was not originally released as a single until the live version from "The Dance" in 1997.Motorhead by HawkwindWayne closes out the staff picks with a B-side from the prog rock group Hawkwind written by bassist Ian "Lemmy" Kilmister while he was with the group. Lemmy was fired from the band one day before the album's release, but would go on to fame in the band Motorhead. INSTRUMENTAL TRACK:Journey of the Sorcerer by the EaglesA rare instrumental from the Eagles takes us out this week. Thanks for listening to “What the Riff?!?” NOTE: To adjust the loudness of the music or voices, you may adjust the balance on your device. VOICES are stronger in the LEFT channel, and MUSIC is stronger on the RIGHT channel.Please follow us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/whattheriffpodcast/, and message or email us with what you'd like to hear, what you think of the show, and any rock-worthy memes we can share.Of course we'd love for you to rate the show in your podcast platform!**NOTE: What the Riff?!? does not own the rights to any of these songs and we neither sell, nor profit from them. We share them so you can learn about them and purchase them for your own collections.
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    39 mins
  • 1992 - August: Eric Clapton "Unplugged"

    1992 - August: Eric Clapton "Unplugged"
    Apr 15 2024
    Eric Clapton is a living legend in the rock world. He was a member of the Yardbirds from 1963 to 1965, a founding member of the supergroup Cream, founding member of Blind Faith, founder of Derek and the Dominos, and a multi-album soloist. He has received 18 Grammy awards, sold more than 280 million records world-wide, and is the only three-time inductee into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.Unplugged was recorded in front of an audience at Bray Studios in England for the "MTV Unplugged" series. This series was started in 1989, and several artists would release albums from this show, including Mariah Carey, Nirvana, and Page and Plant. Clapton's Unplugged album was a monster hit, winning three Grammy awards in 1993. It was Clapton's bestselling album, and the bestselling live album of all time, selling 26 million copies. Clapton recorded this in January 1992, and it contains a mix of his solo material, songs from previous groups, and blues standards from long ago.Eric Clapton continues to play and tour today. He recently released a song called "Voice of a Child" in late 2023 and organized a charity concert to raise funds for children in the Gaza Strip. He also collaborated with Van Morrison in November 2020 on an anti-lockdown single called "Stand and Deliver," and said regarding vaccine mandates that he would not perform on any stage where there is a discriminated audience present. Bruce presents this laid back live blues album in this week's podcast. Running On FaithThis track was originally on the Journeyman album from 1989, Clapton's eleventh studio album. Jerry Lynn Williams wrote this song, as he did several other Clapton songs including "Pretending" and "Forever Man." They lyrics tell of taking each day as it comes in confidence that love will come to the singer in due time.Tears in HeavenThis song originally appeared on the soundtrack for the 1991 film "Rush." In March of that year Clapton's 4-year old son Connor died in a fall from a New York City apartment, causing Clapton to isolate himself for a while. Scoring the music for the film gave him a way to cope with the loss. He wrote the first verse and asked Will Jennings to write the rest. It is deliberately ambiguous, as it is about his son, but also meant to be part of the film. It is his best-selling single in the United States.Rollin' and Tumblin'The recording of this song picks up mid-verse because it was recorded in a break when the cameras and recording equipment were off. Clapton began performing this Muddy Waters blues song impromptu, and the musicians around him joined in. It was last performed by Clapton when he was with Cream, and the audience clearly loves it.LaylaThe signature song from Derek and the Dominos was significantly altered by Clapton and acoustic guitar player Andy Fairweather. They changed it to a shuffle beat, removed many of the familiar riffs and piano exit, and jazzed it up. Clapton is also singing an octave lower than the original, which was at the top of his vocal range back in the day. ENTERTAINMENT TRACK:Theme from the television series “Martin”Martin Lawrence had a comedy series popular in the US at this time, with Martin playing many characters, both male and female. STAFF PICKS:Sister Shade by Mary's DanishWayne brings us an unfortunately underrated song from the 90's as his staff pick. This grunge group actually featured two female lead singers: Gretchen Seager and Julie Ritter. Mary's Danish formed in the late 1980's and released four albums. Unfortunately, they became a victim of mismanagement, incompetent promotion, and a difficult contract that left them without money from the royalties. Even Flow by Pearl JamLynch's staff pick is a signature song from Pearl Jam. The music was written as an instrumental demo before Eddie Vedder's arrival as front man for the band. Vedder wrote the lyrics focusing on the life of a homeless person overlooked by society. Originally performed live in October 1990, it has become Pearl Jam's most performed song.These Are Days by 10,000 ManiacsRob showcases another group with a female lead for his staff pick. The song encourages the listener to recognize the miracle in front of you, to live in the moment. Many associate it with the birth of a child, though the meaning is left ambiguous. This song is one of 10,000 Maniacs' biggest hits, and is one of the last the group did before Natalie Merchant left to pursue a solo career.Runaway Train by Elton John (featuring Eric Clapton)Bruce wraps up the staff picks with the second single from John's 1992 album "The One." The song includes contributions from Eric Clapton, who plays guitar and provides vocals in the second verse. "The One" was Elton John's 23rd studio album, and his biggest selling album in the US since 1976. The lyrics compare trying to get back into control of life to a runaway train. COMEDY TRACK:Taco Grande by “Weird Al” YankovicYou can't go ...
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    47 mins
  • 1985 - October: Scorpions "World Wide Live"

    1985 - October: Scorpions "World Wide Live"
    Apr 8 2024
    While we may think of the German band the Scorpions as an 80's metal band, they started much earlier - way back in 1965. Things didn't really come together for the group until the 1978-1992 personnel lineup of Klaus Meine on lead vocals, Rudolph Schenker on rhythm guitar, Mattias Jabs on lead guitar, Francis Buchholz on bass, and Herman Rarebell on percussion. By the time that the live album entitled World Wide Live came out in 1985, the group had established itself as an international commercial success.Recorded during their 1984 world tour, "World Wide Live" showcases the band at their best, and is a testament to their skill as live performers. The album was produced by Dieter Dierks, and was initially released as a 2-LP vinyl set, a cassette, and a VHS of tour footage showing off the band's stage presence. Folks, you got your money's worth when you originally purchased this album!From the high intensity of rockers like "Big City Nights" and "Rock You Like a Hurricane," to the raw emotion of ballads like "Still Loving You," the Scorpions deliver a performance that connects with their audience. Hearing the live versions gives you a sense of the band in a way that is hard to capture from the studio arrangements.Lynch leads this journey back to 1985, when the Scorpions were rocking the world like a...well...they were rocking the world. Big City NightsThis song from "Love at First Sting" leads off side two of the first LP. Schenker and Meine composed this one, as they did with many Scorpions songs. This homage to night life in the city was released as the third single from their studio album, but failed to chart.No One Like YouOriginally appearing on their 1982 album, "Blackout," this track deals with infatuation and desire. Despite its only reaching number 65 on the Billboard Hot 100, it is one of the songs that established the Scorpions as premiere hard rockers of the 80's.Still Loving YouLong before the hair metal ballad became a trope, the Scorpions demonstrated their ability to handle a slower song while still maintaining intensity and raw emotion. The lyrics are of a guy struggling to convince the girl he has lost to give their love a second chance.Rock You Like a HurricaneThe Scorpions' signature song first appeared on "Love at First Sting" the year before this live album was released. It reached number 25 on the Billboard Hot 100, a rare Scorpions song to break the top 40. The track leads off side three of the album. The risqué video would be a prime exhibit of the PMRC in their quest for more parental control over child access to music videos. ENTERTAINMENT TRACK:Crazy by Patsy ClineA film called "Sweet Dreams" chronicles the life of country music star Patsy Cline, and was in American theaters in this month. STAFF PICKS:Whole of the Moon by The WaterboysWayne gets the staff picks started this week with the best-selling song from an overlooked British-Irish rock-folk band. Cerebral and artsy, with lyrics like "I saw the crescent, you saw the whole of the moon," the song is about individuals with rare depth. The Waterboys reformed in 2000, and can still be seen touring, primarily in Europe.Lay Your Hands On Me by The Thompson TwinsRob brings us a song from the British group that has neither members named Thompson nor twins. It went to number 6 on the Billboard Hot 100. Thompson Twins member Tom Bailey has said that the song takes religious ritual as a metaphor for the connection between artist, performer, and artist.It's Only Love by Bryan Adams and Tina TurnerBruce's staff pick is the sixth and final single from Adam's amazingly popular album "Reckless," and also appears on Turner's "Tina Live in Europe" released in 1988. Loaded with melancholy and anger from a breakup, the song encourages the jilted lover to remember - it's only love. This song went to number 15 on the Billboard Hot 100.Money for Nothing by Dire StraitsLynch features a signature song from Mark Knopfler and Dire Straits, with a strong helping of Sting to boot. This Grammy Award-winning track was a staple of MTV, and spent three weeks atop the US pop charts. The lyrics are a conversation between two working-class men as they watch music videos. INSTRUMENTAL TRACK:Tears In a Prophet's Dream by Celtic FrostThis Swiss heavy metal bands instrumental takes us out for this week's podcast. Thanks for listening to “What the Riff?!?” NOTE: To adjust the loudness of the music or voices, you may adjust the balance on your device. VOICES are stronger in the LEFT channel, and MUSIC is stronger on the RIGHT channel.Please follow us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/whattheriffpodcast/, and message or email us with what you'd like to hear, what you think of the show, and any rock-worthy memes we can share.Of course we'd love for you to rate the show in your podcast platform!**NOTE: What the Riff?!? does not own the rights to any of these songs and we neither sell, nor profit from them. We ...
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    42 mins
  • 1978 - December: The Doobie Brothers “Minute By Minute”

    1978 - December: The Doobie Brothers “Minute By Minute”
    Apr 1 2024
    There are two distinct eras of music by The Doobie Brothers. From their formation in 1970 until 1975, Tom Johnston was the lead vocalist, and the group had a mainstream rock sound, with some folk and “California Country” influences. Starting in 1975, Michael McDonald joined the group as a keyboardist, as well as providing lead vocal work to help Johnston, who was having health problems at the time. Over the following years, Johnston would have less influence as he neared retirement from the group in 1977. Michael McDonald would influence the group into a more soulful sound, often called “blue eyed soul.” Today we would call this “yacht rock.”Minute By Minute, the eighth studio album from the group, comes from the height of the McDonald era. It is a high water mark for the Doobie Brothers both commercially and critically. The album would spend 87 weeks on the Billboard 200 album charts in the U.S., topping the charts in five of those weeks. It would also produce multiple nominations and wins at the Grammy awards in 1980 including Record and Song of the Year wins for “What a Fool Believes.”The Doobie Brothers would break up in 1982, then reform with Johnston back as front man in 1987. Michael McDonald would rejoin the band full time in 2019 in time for their 50th anniversary tour. You can still find them on tour today.Rob brings us this soulful album for today's podcast.What A Fool BelievesThe lyrics of this hit narrate the story of a man who meets an old crush and tries to rekindle their relationship, only to find out that there never really was a relationship in the first place. Michael McDonald and Kenny Loggins wrote this single, which became a number 1 hit in the US and Canada.Dependin' On YouMichael McDonald and Patrick Simmons wrote this song, and Simmons takes over lead singer duties. It went to number 25 on the Billboard Hot 100. The Latin-infused call-and-response song celebrates a rock solid love that is always there.Don't Stop to Watch the WheelsThis shuffle beat deeper cut is sung by Patrick Simmons, and was the B-side from the single release of “What a Fool Believes.” “Look out, hold on, don't stop to watch the wheels go 'round. Look out, hold on, I got to cover ground.”Minute By MinuteThe title track finds Michael McDonald handling lead vocals, and was written by McDonald and Lester Abrams. The single was released in April of 1979, and it went to number 14 on the US charts. The smooth keyboard-driven sound reflects the Motown inspiration, and is a hallmark song of the “yacht rock” genre. ENTERTAINMENT TRACK:Every Which Way But Loose by Eddie Rabbitt (from the motion picture “Every Which Way But Loose”)Clint Eastwood would take a break from his action and western movies for this comedy with an orangutan co-star named Clyde. STAFF PICKS:Don't Stop Me Now by Queen Bruce leads off this week's staff picks with a single from Queen's "Jazz" album. While this tribute to hedonism did well in the UK, it only hit number 86 on the US charts. It would grow in popularity over time, and would be featured in multiple commercials including Toyota, L'Oréal, and American Idol.Double Vision by ForeignerLynch features a song from Foreigner's second album of the same name. It reached number 2 on the Billboard Hot 100. Surprisingly, the inspiration for the song title was an event at a hockey game when a goalie had to be removed after a collision on the ice because he was experiencing double vision.Homicide by 999 Wayne brings us a band from London that is named for the number used in the UK to reach emergency services. This punk-infused song takes a tongue-in-cheek look at serial killers. While a top 40 hit in the UK, it didn't chart in the States. You might recognize this song from the soundtrack to the John Wick series, “The Continental.”Follow You Follow Me by Genesis Rob closes out the staff picks with a softer song from the progressive group Genesis, the closer from their album “...And Then There Were Three...” The group had condensed to the three members of Phil Collins, Mike Rutherford, and Tony Banks, after former member Steve Hackett chose to leave. INSTRUMENTAL TRACK:Steamer Lane Breakdown by The Doobie BrothersWe get a little double dip of the Doobies as we exit today's podcast on this instrumental number. Thanks for listening to “What the Riff?!?” NOTE: To adjust the loudness of the music or voices, you may adjust the balance on your device. VOICES are stronger in the LEFT channel, and MUSIC is stronger on the RIGHT channel.Please follow us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/whattheriffpodcast/, and message or email us with what you'd like to hear, what you think of the show, and any rock-worthy memes we can share.Of course we'd love for you to rate the show in your podcast platform!**NOTE: What the Riff?!? does not own the rights to any of these songs and we neither sell, nor profit from them. ...
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    37 mins
  • 1989 - July: The B-52's “Cosmic Thing”

    1989 - July: The B-52's “Cosmic Thing”
    Mar 25 2024
    Because all of us presenters live in Georgia it is hard for us to believe that Cosmic Thing, the fifth studio album from The B-52's was the international breakthrough album. We had been listening to “Rock Lobster” and “Private Idaho” for about a decade before this album came out. But much of the B-52's discography was confined to college radio stations outside of their home state. Cosmic Thing would really put the group on the map nationally and internationally.This album was also a comeback for the group. The original group consisted of Fred Schneider on vocals, Kate Pierson on vocals and keyboard, Cindy Wilson on vocals and tambourine, Ricky Wilson on guitars, and Keith Strickland on percussion. Ricky Wilson died of AIDS in October 1985, and hadn't told the band other than Keith Strickland that he had the then-terminal disease because he didn't want anyone worrying or fussing over him. His death devastated the group, particularly his sister, Cindy Wilson. The band did not tour to promote their 1985 album release “Bouncing off the Satellites,” nor did they put out any new music until 1989.When they got back together they decided to remain a foursome. Keith Strickland moved to guitar and they brought in session drummers to fill in. It took about a year to compose the songs from this album, with the group spending a lot of time working through their grief in the loss of Ricky Wilson. The resulting album, however, was a tremendous success, with two songs breaking into the top 10 on the US Billboard Hot 100, the first songs of the group to do so.Bruce brings us this comeback album in this week's podcast. Love ShackThis has become the B-52's signature song. It went to number 3 on the Billboard Hot 100 - the group's first top 40 hit. The inspiration for this song was partly an African American club outside Athens, Georgia, called the “Hawaiian Ha-Le.” It was a place that looked like a shack from the outside, but hosted a great selection of bands.Cosmic ThingThe title track and lead-off song to the album preceded the album by a few months. It was released on the soundtrack to the film “Earth Girls Are Easy.” It is also known as “(Shake That) Cosmic Thing.”Channel ZA deeper cut , this track has a little more political feel. It discusses the changes happening in the world, along with pollution, radiation, and other concerns. “Space junk, laser bombs, ozone holes, better put up my umbrella!” The band never lost their dance connection, with songs leaning more towards party and less towards politics.RoamThe second big hit leads off side 2, and also went to number 3 on the Billboard Hot 100. Kate Pierson and Cindy Wilson duet on this song, making it the only vocal track on the album in which Fred Schneider doesn't have a vocal. It was the second and final US top-10 hit for the group. ENTERTAINMENT TRACK:It Had to Be You by Harry Connick, Jr. (from the motion picture “When Harry Met Sally”)Billy Crystal and Meg Ryan star in this romantic comedy, with Harry Connick, Jr. providing most of the soundtrack. STAFF PICKS:I'll Be You by the ReplacementsWayne features a Minnesota band which got their start in the punk genre before moving to alternative rock. This song plays in the bachelor party in the 1996 comedy “Jerry Maguire.” The replacements formed in 1979, and it would be 10 years before this song would be their sole entry into the top 100, peaking at number 51.Free Fallin' by Tom PettyLynch's staff pick is a big hit off Petty's solo album “Full Moon Fever.” This song documents the feelings that a guy has after breaking up with his girl. Petty has ELO founder and fellow Traveling Wilburys member Jeff Lynne joining him on this single, providing synthesizer, bass, acoustic guitar, and backing vocals.Lay Your Hands On Me by Bon JoviRob brings us an epic rock song from Jon Bon Jovi off the album “New Jersey.” This one hit number 7 on the Billboard Hot 100, the fourth single from the album to break into the top 10 on the pop charts. Dolly Parton covered this single in 2014, rearranged as a gospel song.If Dirt Were Dollars by Don HenleyBruce closes out the staff picks with a deeper cut off Henley's massive album “End of the Innocence.” Never one to shy away from politics and culture, Henley rails in this track against materialism, hypocrisy, false patriotism, and hubris. “These days the buck stops nowhere, no one takes the blame. But evil is still evil in anybody's name.” INSTRUMENTAL TRACK:It Had to Be You by Harry Connick, Jr.We double dip on the Entertainment track to end this week's podcast, as Connick did a vocal and instrumental version of this classic song. Thanks for listening to “What the Riff?!?” NOTE: To adjust the loudness of the music or voices, you may adjust the balance on your device. VOICES are stronger in the LEFT channel, and MUSIC is stronger on the RIGHT channel.Please follow us on ...
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    43 mins
  • 1969 - October: Johnny Cash “Original Golden Hits, Volume I and II”

    1969 - October: Johnny Cash “Original Golden Hits, Volume I and II”
    Mar 18 2024
    Johnny Cash was a prolific hitmaker in the mid 50's to early 60's. In the late 60's he released a couple of live albums which had crossover appeal: "Johnny Cash at Folsom Prison," and "Johnny Cash at San Quentin." By 1969, Johnny Cash had become an international musical success, selling more records than the Beatles at the time.Cash had left his original label, Sun Records, back in 1958. However, he had left an extensive catalogue of songs with Sam Phillips at Sun. Given his success and the upcoming Johnny Cash TV show, Sun Records decided it would be a good time to release a compilation of his earlier hits from 1954 through 1958. This compilation was released on two albums, "Original Golden Hits, Volume I" and "Original Golden Hits, Volume II," which reached numbers 4 and 3 on the US Country charts respectively. Cash would go on to fame in TV and film in the 70's, and would continue recording up until his death in 2003.While not strictly rock music, the Man in Black was an icon of American music and an inspiration for many in country, rock, and pop genres. It is also a special memory for Wayne, as he listened to this 8-track as he traveled with his father out of California to Alabama.Wayne takes us through this greatest hits album for today's podcast. Home of the BluesThe inspiration for this song was the "Home of the Blues" record shop on Beale Street in Memphis, Tennessee. The store which was open from the late 40's until the mid 70's was a place he used to hang out, buy records, and meet other musicians. Hey PorterThis is Cash's first recorded song. The setting is just after World War II, and the song focuses on a man returning home from overseas who feels elated to be returning to his native South, the last leg of which is by train. Note that there is no percussion in this song, but Cash played his guitar with dampened strings to acquire a percussive effect.I Walk the LineJohnny Cash's first number 1 hit on the Billboard country charts eventually crossed over to the US pop charts, reaching number 17 and selling over 2 million copies in the United States. The lyrics reflect temptations and the need to be accountable for your actions. The frequent key changes make this song distinctive.Get RhythmThis was the B-side to "I Walk the Line." It was re-released in 1969 as an A-side, and went to number 60 on the Billboard pop chart. ENTERTAINMENT TRACK:Main theme from the television series “Fat Albert”The origin of Bill Cosby's animated series was an animated primetime television special that first aired on NBC on November 12, 1969. STAFF PICKS:Birthday by Underground SunshineRob starts off the staff picks with a cover of the Beatles song by a group from Wisconsin. The band had been around for a few years, but this cover helped them attain greater success. Their cover made it to number 26 on the Billboard Hot 100. Down on the Corner by Credence Clearwater RevivalLynch's staff pick is one of the best known songs by CCR. The song talks about a band called "Willy and the Poor Boys" playing in the street for spare change. It went to number 3 on the Billboard Hot 100 by the end of 1969. I Can't Get Next to You by The Temptations Bruce gets us all moving with the number 1 single from David Ruffin, Melvin Franklin, Otis Williams, Eddie Kendricks, and Paul Williams - better known as The Temptations. This was the second of four number 1 hits from the group, and was written by Norman Whitfield and Barrett Strong for the Motown label. I'm Tired by Savoy BrownWayne's staff pick charted at number 74 on the top 100, and has a very heavy electric blues feel. Three members of this group out of London would go on to form Foghat. The group's name came from American Blues label Savoy Records - a name that had an elegant sound. "Brown" was added as an extremely plain word that contrasted nicely with the elegance of "Savoy." INSTRUMENTAL TRACK:Treat by SantanaSantana would produce a number of excellent instrumental hits during his decades in the rock scene, and this one is from his debut album. Thanks for listening to “What the Riff?!?” NOTE: To adjust the loudness of the music or voices, you may adjust the balance on your device. VOICES are stronger in the LEFT channel, and MUSIC is stronger on the RIGHT channel.Please follow us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/whattheriffpodcast/, and message or email us with what you'd like to hear, what you think of the show, and any rock-worthy memes we can share.Of course we'd love for you to rate the show in your podcast platform!**NOTE: What the Riff?!? does not own the rights to any of these songs and we neither sell, nor profit from them. We share them so you can learn about them and purchase them for your own collections.
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    27 mins