Rock 'n' Roll Rabbit Hole

’We’re Not Gonna Take It’: Twisted Sister’s Evergreen Anthem

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Nearly 40 years ago, a rock anthem hit the airwaves -- and perhaps most importantly, MTV -- in the form of Twisted Sister's "We're Not Gonna Take It." The campy, fun video and the singalong chants made it an instant hit. Kevin and Butch go down the Rock 'n' Roll Rabbit Hole on this timeless classic that remains evergreen after all this time. A few show notes:

  • This episode's so-called Beer of the Week is Mr. American IPA, made with plenty of Cascade hops, from Louisville brewery Noble Funk Brewing Co.
  • The song resembles, in melody and structure, a well known Christmas classic. In fact, Twisted Sister recorded their own version, which you can experience here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YV-SpT69IZ8&t=1s 
  • The drumbeat is unmistakable.
  • Tipper Gore and the Parents Music Resource Center tried to censor the song, and was read the riot act by front man Dee Snider before Congress.
  • Snider would end up recording an acoustic version of the song to help promote a cancer research charity, which you can experience here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M7ya4UJTeZ4 
  • The '80s anthem somehow only reached 21 on the Billboard Top 40, yet it remains an enduring hit.
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    Rock 'n' Roll Rabbit HoleBy Kevin Gibson/Butch Bays