Loss has a soundtrack. We open with love for our dogs—Betty and Miles—and how music kept us steady when birthdays slipped by and life pressed hard. From there, we head into the crate for our A-to-Z “K” picks: Tony’s first forbidden rock crush (hidden sleeves, face paint, the shock of loud guitars) and Smitty’s act that was his dance-floor permission slip that pulled a shy church kid into the light. Then we pour all that energy into a deep celebration of Miles Davis. We trace real entry routes into jazz—Ken Burns, radio, and the feel of vinyl—and lay out a friendly roadmap: Kind of Blue for modal clarity, Porgy and Bess for melody, Round About Midnight for mood, Birth of the Cool for architecture, then the voltage jump to Miles in the Sky, On the Corner, and Bitches Brew. We talk about the First and Second Great Quintets, how Miles curated chemistry like an instrument, and why his constant reinvention—cool, hard bop, modal minimalism, electric fusion—still powers hip-hop, rock, and R&B today. We also get into the collector side: six-eye Columbias, original covers (that early Miles Ahead art), and the warmth that makes jazz feel alive on wax. To close, we trade five “never-skip” songs—the tracks that stop a day in its tracks. From Marvin Gaye to Oingo Boingo, plus a shameless Young MC confession, it’s a mixtape of memory; proof that music is the glue—holding us when life is heavy and lifting us when we need light. If this resonated, tap follow, share with a friend who needs a good record tonight, and drop your never-skip tracks in the comments. Your picks might make the next show.

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Reach out with questions, comments, collabs, etc: [email protected]

Remember: No matter the genre, no matter the decade, music is the glue that keeps us together. Stay tuned; stay connected.

Step back into the neon-soaked world of the 1980s as we celebrate the 40th anniversary of Miami Vice, the revolutionary TV show that forever changed how music and visuals work together in storytelling. From its $2 million per episode budget to its strict "no earth tones" color palette, this cultural phenomenon didn't just entertain – it transformed fashion, music integration, and television production in ways we still see today. The heart of our conversation explores how Miami Vice pioneered the use of popular music in television, creating what were essentially music videos within episodes. That iconic scene with Crockett and Tubbs driving at night to Phil Collins' "In the Air Tonight" wasn't just cool – it represented a fundamental shift in how TV could evoke emotion. We unpack behind-the-scenes stories, including Michael Mann's exacting vision and the parade of music legends who both contributed songs and made guest appearances. Our 80s theme continues with deep dives into two iconic albums of the era in our A To Z segment. Journey's "Escape" marks the pivotal moment when Jonathan Cain joined the band, bringing "Don't Stop Believin'" with him and helping create what would become their biggest-selling studio album. Janet Jackson's "Control" represents her declaration of independence and her partnership with producers Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis that would help pioneer New Jack Swing. We wrap with a Re-Review of Huey Lewis and the News' "Sports" album, examining whether its five massive hit singles still hold up today (spoiler: they absolutely do). From industry intrigue like the "Ghostbusters" lawsuit to production techniques that still sound fresh decades later, we celebrate the musical craftsmanship that defined the era. Join us for this nostalgic yet fresh look at 80s music and television. How has your perspective on these classics changed over time? What 80s influences do you still see in today's entertainment landscape?

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Your hosts: https://www.instagram.com/tmoney1968/ & https://www.instagram.com/smittys_soul_shack/

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Reach out with questions, comments, collabs, etc: [email protected]

Remember: No matter the genre, no matter the decade, music is the glue that keeps us together. Stay tuned; stay connected.

Tony and Smitty return from their extended summer break with refreshed energy and a treasure trove of musical revelations that span decades and genres. The episode opens with a heartfelt dedication to Smitty's beloved dog, Miles Davis Smith, before diving into their signature "A to Z" segment featuring the letter "I." Smitty showcases the Isley Brothers' landmark 1975 album "The Heat Is On" – surprisingly their only Billboard 200 #1 despite their legendary status. The Ohio natives' masterful blend of funk anthems and sensual ballads continues influencing artists today through extensive sampling. Meanwhile, Tony reveals his lifelong connection to Iron Maiden, explaining how the British heavy metal pioneers elevated the genre through intellectually rich lyrics based on literature, history, and mythology – a depth many casual listeners might overlook. The episode's centerpiece explores Tina Turner's extraordinary comeback story. After escaping her abusive marriage to Ike with just 36 cents to her name, Turner found herself considered "washed up" and performing in far-flung locations like Yugoslavia and Bahrain. Her transformation from struggling artist to global superstar hinged on a song she initially despised – "What's Love Got to Do With It" – which became her first and only Billboard Hot 100 #1 at age 44. The hosts trace how this single triumph snowballed into Grammy wins, blockbuster films, and stadium tours, cementing her iconic status. Perhaps most relatable is Tony's confession about discovering the Isley Brothers' "Between the Sheets" only after hearing it sampled in numerous hip-hop tracks. This honest moment highlights how sampling creates musical bridges across generations, keeping classic compositions alive while introducing them to new audiences. Whether you're a devoted metalhead, R&B aficionado, or simply appreciate stories of artistic resilience, this episode reminds us why music truly is the glue that binds our experiences together. Subscribe now and join us next time for an all-80s episode featuring a revolutionary television show that changed how music and visual media intersect!

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Your hosts: https://www.instagram.com/tmoney1968/ & https://www.instagram.com/smittys_soul_shack/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/musicisthegluepodcast/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MusicIsTheGluePodcast

Twitter (X): https://x.com/MusicIsTheGluehttps

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@musicisthegluepodcast

Reach out with questions, comments, collabs, etc: [email protected]

Remember: No matter the genre, no matter the decade, music is the glue that keeps us together. Stay tuned; stay connected.

After Tony & Smitty's regular feature, A To Z, where one host picks a CLASSIC Greatest Hits collection, and the other reveals a recent (for him) discovery of a more modern group, the hosts welcome 2 great guests (their first) to talk about an artist you probably haven't heard of, but will be a fan of by the time its done. Graham Wallace had a vision when founding Continued Sound Records - to rescue incredible music from obscurity. Ben Takis had a mission - to preserve his stepfather's musical legacy. When these two forces combined, magic happened. Listening to Kip Carmen & The New Frontier's "That's Enough For Me" feels like discovering a lost treasure. The song exudes the warmth, soul, and authentic vibe of 1970s Memphis, where Carmen found his greatest success. What makes this story extraordinary isn't just the music (though it stands impressively on its own), but the journey behind it. As Kip's stepson, Ben provides intimate insights into the Native American artist's career - from selling out Memphis venues to recording at Al Green's legendary High Records. We learn about Kip's unwavering artistic integrity, turning down exploitative record deals even when they might have catapulted him to greater recognition. The hosts aptly note that Kip feels "born in the wrong decade" - his entrepreneurial spirit and independent approach would thrive in today's music landscape. The conversation delves into the painstaking process of music preservation - hunting down original recordings, navigating complex rights issues, and employing sophisticated remastering techniques. Graham explains how ultrasonic cleaning and expert mastering preserve the warmth of vintage recordings while giving them new sonic life. For both men, this project transcends mere reissuing; it's about honoring artistic legacy and sharing overlooked brilliance with a new generation. The passion these guests bring to their work is infectious. Their dedication to honoring overlooked artists reminds us that for every household name in music, countless others with equal talent remain in relative obscurity. Through careful restoration and thoughtful contextualization, they're ensuring Kip's music continues to resonate fifty years after its creation. Discover this musical gem and support the preservation of overlooked masterpieces by visiting Continued Sound's website (continuedsound.com) or Kip's Bandcamp page (https://kipcarmen.bandcamp.com/merch) 

Your ears - and soul - will thank you.

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Your hosts: https://www.instagram.com/tmoney1968/ & https://www.instagram.com/smittys_soul_shack/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/musicisthegluepodcast/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MusicIsTheGluePodcast

Twitter (X): https://x.com/MusicIsTheGluehttps

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Reach out with questions, comments, collabs, etc: [email protected]

Remember: No matter the genre, no matter the decade, music is the glue that keeps us together. Stay tuned; stay connected.

When a Scottish band declared they "couldn't give a toss about teenage American school kids," they nearly missed recording what would become their defining anthem. The story behind the band's reluctant path to recording the song forms the captivating centerpiece of this episode, revealing how a wife's crucial advice transformed music history.

Tony and Smitty start by exploring a letter "G" in their record collections, unearthing fascinating tales along the way. Tony introduces an artist whose 1967 hit broke Beatles' records before she mysteriously vanished from public life for over 40 years. Meanwhile, Smitty connects his G pick to Black Wall Street, explaining how the band's name honors streets from one of America's most significant yet often overlooked historical sites.

The conversation takes a thoughtful turn when they discuss representation in 80s coming-of-age films, comparing the cultural touchstones that shaped different experiences. From John Hughes' suburban landscapes to the vibrant worlds of "The Last Dragon" and "Krush Groove," they explore how cinema reflects and sometimes fails to reflect diverse teenage experiences.

The hosts wrap up with their ultimate "baby-making music" recommendations, spanning sultry 90s R&B classics to instrumental jazz fusion that sets the perfect mood. Their contrasting musical backgrounds create a rich tapestry of selections that will have you reaching for your handy-dandy notebook (as Smitty calls it) to jot down these essential additions to your romantic playlist.

Whether you're a film buff, music history enthusiast, or simply someone who appreciates the stories behind the songs that define generations, this episode delivers with humor, heart, and the genuine passion that makes Music is the Glue your essential companion for musical discovery.

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Your hosts: https://www.instagram.com/tmoney1968/ & https://www.instagram.com/smittys_soul_shack/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/musicisthegluepodcast/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MusicIsTheGluePodcast

Twitter (X): https://x.com/MusicIsTheGluehttps

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@musicisthegluepodcast

Reach out with questions, comments, collabs, etc: [email protected]

Remember: No matter the genre, no matter the decade, music is the glue that keeps us together. Stay tuned; stay connected.

Have you ever wondered how tragedy can inspire art that transcends decades? In this episode, we journey through one of America's darkest chapters that unexpectedly sparked musical innovation, transforming grief into creative genius. We kick things off with our A to Z segment, letter F, where Smitty introduces The Foreign Exchange, revealing how their groundbreaking debut album "Connected" was created entirely through transatlantic digital exchanges between North Carolina and the Netherlands—one of music's first truly remote collaborations. Tony counters with another North Carolina band, exploring how their unconventional approach stood apart from guitar-heavy contemporaries of the 90s. Along the way, we share hilarious vinyl collecting mishaps, including Smitty's unfortunate experience receiving a burned CD with Chinese writing after ordering what was supposed to be a rare vinyl record. Our deep dive takes us to Kent State University, May 4th, 1970—a day that would change American history and music forever. We trace how escalating Vietnam War protests culminated in National Guard troops firing into a crowd of unarmed students, killing four and wounding nine. What makes this tragic event particularly significant to music history? The witnesses who survived went on to form some of new wave's most influential bands. Meanwhile, Neil Young's powerful protest anthem "Ohio" captured the nation's outrage within days. We wrap with our new "Babysitter or Bust" segment, humorously debating whether a legendary artist would make a trustworthy childcare provider. The verdict might surprise you! Would you trust your favorite music legend with your kids? Share your thoughts in the comments, and don't forget to like, subscribe, and follow us on social media. Next episode, we'll explore an iconic 80s song approaching a special anniversary—one that Generation X listeners won't want to miss!

Check us out to us on social media!

Your hosts: https://www.instagram.com/tmoney1968/ & https://www.instagram.com/smittys_soul_shack/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/musicisthegluepodcast/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MusicIsTheGluePodcast

Twitter (X): https://x.com/MusicIsTheGluehttps

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@musicisthegluepodcast

Reach out with questions, comments, collabs, etc: [email protected]

Remember: No matter the genre, no matter the decade, music is the glue that keeps us together. Stay tuned; stay connected.

Ever wonder how a broken rib led to one of the most iconic songs of the 1980s? The story behind that song is just one of the fascinating revelations in this episode as we dive deep into the soundtrack that dominated the charts for an incredible 10-week run. Beyond just being a collection of songs for a movie about rebellious dancing teens, this soundtrack produced six Top 40 hits and launched careers—all inspired by a real Oklahoma town that had banned dancing since 1898!

We pull back the curtain on the casting process that almost saw Tom Cruise or Rob Lowe in Kevin Bacon's star-making role, and how difficult production decisions shaped what would become cultural touchstones. The soundtrack's journey to success mirrors many of our discussions about how music creates lasting connections across generations, despite the movie itself being... well, less than Oscar-worthy.

Our A to Z segment takes us to the letter E, where Tony shares his unexpected appreciation for a rapper, introduced to him by his wife who knew the rapper during his early days hustling tapes in Vallejo. Meanwhile, Smitty celebrates Earth, Wind & Fire's "Gratitude" album, highlighting their electrifying live performances that dominated the 70s music scene. These personal connections to music remind us why we started this podcast—because these songs become intertwined with our life stories.

Perhaps most mind-blowing is our exploration of legendary songs that never reached #1 on the Billboard Hot 100. From "Bohemian Rhapsody" to "Girls Just Wanna Have Fun" to Bruce Springsteen's entire catalog—these cultural monuments somehow missed the top spot despite their enduring legacy. We peek behind the curtain at how radio promotion and chart mechanics actually work, showing that even the biggest songs sometimes don't get the chart recognition they deserve.

Subscribe, share with friends, and join the conversation! What "E" artist would be in your collection? Which non-#1 hit shocked you the most? Remember, no matter the genre or decade, music is the glue that keeps us connected.

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Your hosts: https://www.instagram.com/tmoney1968/ & https://www.instagram.com/smittys_soul_shack/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/musicisthegluepodcast/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MusicIsTheGluePodcast

Twitter (X): https://x.com/MusicIsTheGluehttps

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@musicisthegluepodcast

Reach out with questions, comments, collabs, etc: [email protected]

Remember: No matter the genre, no matter the decade, music is the glue that keeps us together. Stay tuned; stay connected.

The greatest hip-hop group of all time? That's a bold claim worth exploring. In this episode, Tony and Smitty dive deep into A Tribe Called Quest's groundbreaking 1990 debut album "People's Instinctive Travels and the Paths of Rhythm," examining how it revolutionized hip-hop with its jazz-infused production and laid-back approach.

When Q-Tip, Phife Dawg, Ali Shaheed Muhammad, and Jarobi White burst onto the scene from Queens, New York, the hip-hop landscape was dominated by aggressive sounds from artists like Public Enemy and Ice Cube. What made Tribe different was their willingness to venture into uncharted territory, creating a sound unlike anything else at the time. As Smitty explains, "They absolutely changed the way I listen to rap music."

The conversation explores how Q-Tip's innovative production techniques—digging through crates of jazz, funk, and soul records instead of relying on heavy drum machines—created a template that would influence generations of artists to follow. From the sample clearance issues of "Can I Kick It?" to their connection with the Native Tongues collective alongside De La Soul and the Jungle Brothers, we unpack what made their debut so revolutionary, even if it wasn't an immediate commercial success.

The episode also features our recurring A-to-Z segment where both hosts share albums from their collection starting with the letter D, plus a surprisingly candid discussion of guilty pleasure artists ranging from Barry Manilow to the Backstreet Boys. It's a reminder that great music transcends boundaries and sometimes the songs we love most are the ones we least expect.

Whether you're a long-time Tribe fan or discovering their music for the first time, this episode celebrates how "music is the glue" that brings us together. Subscribe now and join the conversation about the artists and albums that bridge cultural divides and shape our musical landscapes.

Check us out to us on social media!

Your hosts: https://www.instagram.com/tmoney1968/ & https://www.instagram.com/smittys_soul_shack/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/musicisthegluepodcast/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MusicIsTheGluePodcast

Twitter (X): https://x.com/MusicIsTheGluehttps

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@musicisthegluepodcast

Reach out with questions, comments, collabs, etc: [email protected]

Remember: No matter the genre, no matter the decade, music is the glue that keeps us together. Stay tuned; stay connected.

"Music is the Glue" isn't just a podcast title – it's a philosophy that guides Tony and Smitty through this engaging exploration of how melodies and rhythms connect us, even when everything else threatens to pull us apart. Their infectious enthusiasm for vinyl treasures kicks off with tales of recent record store hauls, from Miles Davis to MF Doom, showcasing the hosts' eclectic tastes.

The episode truly shines during their fascinating deep dive into Teddy Pendergrass, soul music's powerhouse vocalist whose story rivals any Hollywood drama. From his humble beginnings as a drummer for Harold Melvin and the Blue Notes to becoming the voice behind classics like "If You Don't Know Me By Now," Teddy's journey represents music's transformative power. Tony and Smitty skillfully navigate the complex narrative of his meteoric rise, including the fascinating dynamic of being the unnamed voice behind Harold Melvin's group.

What makes this episode particularly compelling is how the hosts balance Teddy's musical achievements with the darker elements of his story – the unsolved murder of his manager, his groundbreaking ladies-only concerts that revolutionized live performance, and the devastating 1982 car accident that left him paralyzed at the height of his career. Rather than treating these as mere tabloid fodder, Tony and Smitty explore how these events shaped both Teddy's artistry and resilience, culminating in his emotional 1985 Live Aid comeback that left tears streaming down his face.

The episode rounds out with an enlightening segment on "Song Behind the Sample," dissecting how Chic's "Good Times" became the backbone for "Rapper's Delight" – complete with the behind-the-scenes drama of uncleared samples and borrowed lyrics. It's these musical connections across genres and generations that reinforce the podcast's core message: no matter how divided we may seem, music remains the universal language that brings us together.

Whether you're a longtime vinyl collector or just discovering these legendary artists, this episode offers a perfect blend of music history, cultural context, and pure listening joy. Subscribe now to join Tony and Smitty on their ongoing exploration of the sounds that bind us together.

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Your hosts: https://www.instagram.com/tmoney1968/ & https://www.instagram.com/smittys_soul_shack/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/musicisthegluepodcast/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MusicIsTheGluePodcast

Twitter (X): https://x.com/MusicIsTheGluehttps

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Reach out with questions, comments, collabs, etc: [email protected]

Remember: No matter the genre, no matter the decade, music is the glue that keeps us together. Stay tuned; stay connected.

A wall between two musical worlds came crashing down in 1986 when Run-DMC and Aerosmith joined forces for "Walk This Way," forever altering the landscape of American music. Tony and Smitty take listeners back to this pivotal moment when a struggling rock band met an ascending rap group, creating a collaboration that would save one career while launching another into the mainstream.

Before diving into this genre-defining partnership, we kick things off with our A to Z segment featuring Babyface's groundbreaking debut album "Tender Lover" and the Beastie Boys' diamond-certified "Licensed to Ill." Both records represented watershed moments in music history—Babyface establishing himself as an R&B songwriting powerhouse and the Beasties becoming the second rap act to achieve platinum certification.

The episode's centerpiece explores how "Walk This Way" transformed from an unlikely pairing into a cultural phenomenon. You'll learn how Aerosmith's manager responded with "What's rap?" when first approached about the collaboration, how Steven Tyler discovered hip-hop while buying drugs in New York City neighborhoods, and how Run initially described Aerosmith's lyrics as "gibberish" and "country bumpkin bullshit." Recorded in just one day for $8,000, this collaboration rescued Aerosmith from commercial irrelevance and helped bring rap music into America's living rooms via heavy MTV rotation.

We close with memories of U2's "The Joshua Tree" album, discussing where we were when we first heard these iconic songs and debating why Bono generates such strong reactions among music fans. Whether you're fascinated by musical crossovers, cultural turning points, or simply love hearing about the moments that redefined what music could be, this episode celebrates how unexpected collaborations can break down barriers and create something greater than the sum of its parts.

Check us out to us on social media!

Your hosts: https://www.instagram.com/tmoney1968/ & https://www.instagram.com/smittys_soul_shack/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/musicisthegluepodcast/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MusicIsTheGluePodcast

Twitter (X): https://x.com/MusicIsTheGluehttps

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@musicisthegluepodcast

Reach out with questions, comments, collabs, etc: [email protected]

Remember: No matter the genre, no matter the decade, music is the glue that keeps us together. Stay tuned; stay connected.