What the Riff Next Gen

By Rob Marbury, Wayne Rowan, Bruce Fricks, John LynchMusic Music Commentary

What the Riff Next Gen episodes

April 10, 2023 1969 - September: The Beatles “Abbey Road”
The Beatles were at the height of their popularity, and surprisingly near the end of their time as a group when they recorded Abbey Road, their eleventh studio album. In fact, it would be the last album the group started recording, as Let it Be was mostly recorded prior to the Abbey Road sessions even though it wasn't finished until after Abbey Road was released. John, Paul, George, and Ringo were iconic by this time, though all were still under 30 years of age.
The recording of this album was more harmonious than the Get Back/Let It Be sessions earlier in the same year, but they were not free of conflict. John Lennon did not perform on several tracks, and would have quietly left the group prior to the album's release.
The album is a bit of a throwback to a previous style of production, prior to the conflict-ridden processes that had typified Get Back and The White Album. Producer George Martin agreed to this, but on the condition that all group members - especially John Lennon - let him produce the record as the earlier records were produced, and that everyone maintain discipline for the process. The result actually faced mixed reviews at the time of its release, though with the passage of time it has attained its present status as one of the greatest rock albums of all time.
The cover is the iconic picture of the band members walking across a zebra crossing outside Abbey Road Studios.
Special guest and friend of the show Eric Von Haessler from “The Von Haessler Doctrine” on WSB Radio joins us to present this album - one of his all-time favorites. Eric recommends the version from the 1987 CD, as newer versions have been remixed to the detriment of the album.

Come Together
The opening track is a bit of a continuation of the earlier song “Let's Get It Together” which John Lennon wrote for Timothy Leary when he was campaigning for the California gubernatorial race against Ronald Reagan. The song’s lyrics are quite surrealistic, but the title may represent the desire of the band to get together in harmony for the sake of the music.
Here Comes the Sun
George Harrison wrote this incredibly positive song in Eric Clapton's garden during a break from business meetings for the Beatles. John Lennon was recovering from a car accident when the track was recorded, and did not perform on the track. Believe it or not, this was not released as a single from the album!
Maxwell's Silver Hammer
Paul McCartney wrote this song after traveling to India in 1968 and originally wanted to record it for the White Album, but the group thought it was “too complicated” and pushed it off until this album. McCartney further annoyed the others by insisting on a perfect performance of the work. The multiple takes were, in the words of George Harrison, “a real drag.”
I Want You (She's So Heavy)
Lennon wrote this song about his relationship with Yoko Ono. The finished product is a combination of two different recording attempts, one made just after the Get Back sessions with Billy Preston, and the other made during the Abbey Road sessions. The phrase “heavy” at the time meant deep or significant, and in no way related to Ono's weight!
**We opted to cover 5 Staff Picks and did not feature an Entertainment Track on this podcast**

STAFF PICKS:
Me by Otis Rush
Wayne starts this week's staff picks with a Chicago blues artist that got his start in the early 50's. This song is about a guy who attributes his position on hard work and self-determination. “I paid my own way, gave stuff for free 'cause the only true friend I ever had was me.” Duane Allman is on guitar on this track.
Oh What a Night by the Dells
Bruce's staff pick is a remake of a number 4 R&B hit from 1956, also by The Dells. This updated version went to number 10 on the Billboard Hot 100. A number of covers of this song have been done through the years, including by Sly Stallone and the Biscaynes, Tracey Ullman, Lester Bowie, Nick Kaman, and the Moonlighters.
Sweet Caroline by Neil Diamond
This one is not a deep cut by any stretch of the imagination. Rob features a sing-a-long song for many sports teams, including the Carolina Panthers, Iowa State, the University of Pittsburgh, and of course the Boston Red Sox. The inspiration for the name was Caroline Kennedy, the last surviving child of President John Kennedy, though Diamond wrote it for his wife, Marsha. He felt like a three-syllable name would fit the song better.
Green River by Creedence Clearwater Revival
Lynch brings us some swamp rock from CCR. Creedence Clearwater Revival had 14 top 10 hits within a 17-month period. Although the group is from California, the song was written about the Green River near New Orleans and has a Louisiana feel. Despite their success, acrimony within the group would lead to a breakup in 1972.
Sugar, Sugar by The Archies
Eric Von Haessler finishes off the staff picks with a very different song from the Beatles. The Archies were a fictional band based on the TV show and comic strip of the same name. The music was recorded by session musicians. A number of these “bubble gum pop” songs were successful, with a lighthearted, positive touch. Jeff Barry and Andy Kim wrote this, and it hit number 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 for four weeks

INSTRUMENTAL TRACK:
Baby, I Love You by Otis Rush
We exit the podcast by double-dipping on an instrumental blues number by Otis Rush.
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.
39 min
April 03, 2023 1990 - May: The Sundays “Reading, Writing and Arithmetic”
The debut album by The Sundays entitled Reading, Writing and Arithmetic introduced the dream pop band to the UK during a time between alternative waves. The Smiths had broken up previously, but it would still be several years before the Manchester sound would take over the indie scene.
Vocalist Harriet Wheeler and guitarist David Gavurin met at Bristol University. The two became a couple, and they formed the band in 1988 after adding bassist Paul Brindley and drummer Patrick Hannan to the group. Neither Wheeler nor Gavurin were pursuing music at the University - Wheeler studied English literature, and Gavurin studied Romance languages.
The Sundays' rise to popularity was quite rapid. Their first single hit number 45 on the UK singles chart a year before the album was released. Since the group had only been around for a year or so before that single was released, they didn't have a lot of material developed. Wheeler and Gavurin were also perfectionists, and so they would not work to a deadline for the album.
The Sundays would produce 3 albums during the 1990s. However, they never embraced the rock lifestyle. The American tour for their second album (released in 1992) was cut short due to exhaustion and homesickness. The third album wasn't released until 1997, by which time Gavurin and Wheeler had children and were beginning to settle down. While they would continue to make songs in their own studio, no further albums would be released.
Bruce brings this group and their debut album to the podcast.

Can't Be Sure
This is the debut single released in England which hit number 45 on the UK singles chart. It is about desire, but not for a specific person or thing, more as a concept. “And did you know desire's a terrible thing, the worst that I could find. And did you know desire's a terrible thing, but I rely on mine.”
You're Not the Only One I Know
This deeper cut is a break-up song. The lyrics seem to reflect a depressed singer who wants the guy to come back, but is too proud to talk to him about it.
Joy
The last song on the album is also one of the last the group wrote for the album. They actually wanted to name the album “Joy,” but someone had already used that title. It is a little heavier than some of the other tracks but keeps the impressionistic feel.
Here's Where the Story Ends
US listeners will recognize this song as the hit, going to number 1 on the US Alternative Rock charts. However, it was not released as a single in the UK because the group's record label was in financial trouble. The lyrics are looking back on a past relationship. "It's that little souvenir of a terrible year which makes my eyes feel sore. Oh, I never should have said the books that you read were all I loved you for."

ENTERTAINMENT TRACK:
Theme to the from the television series “Newhart”
The second comedy series starring Bob Newhart ended this month with a big reveal that the entire show was a dream of Bob Newhart from the first series.

STAFF PICKS:
What It Takes by Aerosmith
Lynch leads off the staff picks this week. Aerosmith could do no wrong at the start of the 90's. This fast ballad chronicles a guy breaking up with his girlfriend and wondering what it takes to get over their relationship. The electric guitars helped remedy a concern that the original takes made the piece sound like a lovelorn, twangy country song.
Blues Before and After by The Smithereens
Wayne features a song telling about a guy that is in love with a woman who only uses him for her own selfish gain, leaving him with the “blues before and after” their encounters. This is off the Smithereen's album, “11,” which was their third studio album. The name is a nod to a skit in the 80's mock-umentary film, “This Is Spinal Tap,” or perhaps the movie “Oceans 11.”
All For You by David Baerwald
Rob previously brought us “Welcome to the Boomtown” by David and David. This song is from one of the David's after that group split up. It is from Baerwald's debut studio solo album, “Bedtime Stories.” Baerwald is a great storyteller, and most of his songs reflect this. Singer songwriter Joni Mitchell was involved in this album.
Texas Twister by Little Feat
Bruce picks up the pace with this boogie number. Little Feat was formed in 1969, but this 90's iteration of the group is a little different. Founder and front man Lowell George died in 1979, and was largely replaced in this formation of the band by Craig Fuller, founding member of Pure Prairie League. This lead-off track from their ninth studio album is about picking up a girl and wondering if you will survive the evening.

NOVELTY TRACK:
Hanky Panky by Madonna
Madonna's album inspired by the movie "Dick Tracy" (in which she starred) sported this spanking new single.
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.
41 min
March 27, 2023 1988 - June: The Coolies “Doug”
We're going extra-deep this week with alternative rock group The Coolies. The name comes from a derogatory term for 19th century Chinese immigrants who had to work hard for little pay. The Atlanta based group was only around for about three years and produced two albums. The first called "dig..?" was largely a collection of Simon and Garfunkel covers. Their second album, Doug, is a rock opera with an odd premise.
Doug follows the rise and fall of a skinhead named Doug. He kills a transvestite who happens to be a cook, and becomes rich by using the stolen recipe book. The money is spent in riotous living, and in the end Doug ends up right where he began.
The Coolies vocalist and front man was Clay Harper. Other band members included Jeb Baldwin, Rob Gal, Teddy Murray, and for this album had Frogg Jaguar Mellonball (most interesting artist name) on percussion. He replaced Billy Burton, who was percussionist for the first album but was unavailable for “Doug” due to his commitments to The Swimming Pool Q's, another locally well known alternative band.
Harper would go on to be the owner of Fellini's Pizza and La Fonda Latina restaurants in Atlanta. It is not believed that the events from the Rock Opera are in any way connected to Harper's future culinary success.
Wayne takes us on this deep cut journey to explore one of his favorite albums.

Ice Cold Soul
The lead track introduces Doug, the main character of the rock opera. He is a skin head with the Pledge of Allegiance tattooed on the side of his head. He hangs out with his fellow skin heads stealing from people, beating them up, and generally being intimidating. “Schlitz Malt Liquor is my favorite food and pissed off is my favorite mood.”
Pussy Cook
The transvestite cook is warned not to walk where the “skin heads chill,” but failed to heed the warning. After beating up and killing the cook, Doug and his gang “open up the purse to get a good look. Got the money and the dope and the recipe book.” There are a lot of similarities between this song and “Cooky Puss” by the Beastie Boys, which this song spoofs.
40 Foot Stretch
This track continues the tale with Doug living large in the back of a stretch limousine. We're beginning to question whether that recipe book was referencing food...or something else! This song has a sound reminiscent of Miami Vice.
Crack Pipe Burning
It is becoming obvious that things are not going to end happily ever after with Doug. The reference at the end of the song to “I got blisters on my fingers” hearkens back to a statement Ringo Starr makes at the end of the Beatles song “Helter Skelter.”

ENTERTAINMENT TRACK:
Do You Love Me by the Contours (from the motion picture “Dirty Dancing”)
This 1962 single made a resurgence after appearing in 1987's “Dirty Dancing” film, and was on the charts in the summer of 1988.

STAFF PICKS:
Rough Night in Jericho by Dreams So Real
Bruce stays with the local flavor with his staff pick featuring a trio from Athens, Georgia. The lead-off and title track from the band's second album hit number 28 on the Billboard Mainstream Rock charts. The band produced three albums in total, with this song being their most successful single.
Waiting for a Star to Fall by Boy Meets Girl
Rob brings us a more pop song than he normally features. Keyboardist and vocalist George Merrill met singer Shannon Rubicam at a wedding where they were hired to perform, and later got married themselves, making it a “boy meets girl” story. In addition to this song which made it to number 5 on the Billboard Hot 100, the duo also wrote songs for other performers including “I Wanna Dance With Somebody” and “How Will I Know” by Whitney Houston.
Beds Are Burning by Midnight Oil
Lynch's staff pick is a protest song from Australia's Midnight Oil. It criticizes the Australian government for its treatment of Aboriginal communities in forcing them off their lands. Midnight Oil performed this song at the Sydney Olympics, and wore jackets that said, “sorry” after the Australian government would not apologize for the treatment of Aboriginal people.
This Note's for You by Neil Young & The Bluenotes
Wayne features another protest song, this time from Neil Young. At the time many rock bands and artists were being recruited to appear in commercials for Coca-Cola, Pepsi, Budweiser, and other consumer goods and drinks. MTV controversially banned the video for a period of time due to concerns from advertisers, proving Young's point.

INSTRUMENTAL TRACK:
End Title (from "Who Framed Roger Rabbit?") by Alan Silvestri
This live action/animation combination was a hit on the big screens in June of 1988.
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.
37 min
March 20, 2023 1978 - March: Journey “Infinity”
Infinity is the album where Journey takes on the sound we recognize as that monster of a group. This fourth studio album is the first to include vocalist and front man Steve Perry in the group. The group had been looking for a stronger lead vocalist, and had originally settled on Robert Fleischman for that role. However, Fleischman was soon replaced by Perry after “musical and management differences” were encountered.
In addition to Steve Perry, the band at the time included Neal Schon on guitar, Gregg Rolle on keyboards and vocals, Ross Valory on bass, and Aynsley Dunbar on percussion. The album was produced by Roy Thomas Baker, who had previously worked with Queen. Baker brought the layered sound and stacked vocals approach to the band, which is prominent in songs like “Feeling That Way” and “Anytime.”
Infinity would mark a departure of Journey from their jazzy prog rock roots to a decidedly more accessible pop rock sound. Much of their work prior to Infinity would disappear from the setlist over time. This album would see both former lead singer Gregg Rolle and new lead singer Steve Perry sharing vocal duties on songs, but those lead duties would be almost exclusively Perry's going forward.
Rob brings us this iconic band and album as we celebrate our 250th Episode.

Lights
The lead track from the album is an homage to San Francisco. It was inspired by a sunrise when Perry was at Griffith Park Observatory in Los Angeles, and saw the lights going down as the sun came up. It was the third single off the album, but was only a minor hit at number 68 on the Billboard Hot 100.
Feeling That Way
This track utilizes a prominent layered sound by having multiple vocalists sing each part of the harmony in unison, creating a much fuller sound. It also sees Perry and Rolle taking turns with the lead vocal duties. Ordinarily paired with “Anytime,” the following song on the album, we're cutting this one short in favor of some deeper cuts.
Somethin' to Hide
An unusual deeper cut in an album filled with well-played songs, this track shows off Perry's high harmonies. It was rarely played live because of the vocal difficulty. The lyrics talk about a relationship where it is clear something is wrong, something hidden.
Patiently
Another (relatively) deep cut, Perry and Schon wrote this song. It is Perry's reflection about life on the road, his excitement at being a part of the band, and the thrill of the fans. This is the first song Steve Perry wrote for the group.

ENTERTAINMENT TRACK:
Intro to the television series “Project UFO”
This short-lived television series channeled the flying saucer/alien interest that was popular at the time.

STAFF PICKS:
Comin' Right Down On Top of Me by April Wine
Bruce gets the staff picks going with a deep track from April Wine's seventh studio album, First Glance. The song is a blues epic which chronicles the singer's feeling of being so weighed down with bad luck that he can't breathe. Myles Goodwyn who wrote this song was the only founding member left in the group by the time this album was created.
Just the Way You Are by Billy Joel
Lynch features a song dedicated to Joel's first wife and road manager, Elizabeth Weber. It is the first single from his hugely successful fifth studio album, The Stranger, and it would win Grammy awards for Record of the Year and Song of the Year in 1979. Joel jokes about writing songs for his wives just before they get divorced. Jazz saxophonist Phil Wood plays the sax solo part.
Northern Lights by Renaissance
Journey may have given up their prog rock roots, but Wayne brings us the prog rock with the most popular song Renaissance would produce. This song off their eighth studio album, A Song for All Seasons, is about leaving the Northern Lights of England and fiancée Roy Wood while working in the U.S. It went to number 10 in the UK, although it didn't break into the US top 40.
Don't Let Me Be Misunderstood by Santa Esmeralda
Rob finishes the staff picks with a flamenco dance cover of Nina Simone's song. The best known cover was done by the Animals, but Santa Esmeralda featured a 16-minute cover that took up an entire album side. You may recall Santa Esmeralda's version was featured in one of the Kill Bill: Volume 1 fight scenes.

COMEDY TRACK:
Short People by Randy Newman
Long before his association with Disney, Randy Newman released this novelty hit which exclaims, “Don't want no short people 'round here.”
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.
37 min
March 13, 2023 1992 - May: the Black Crowes ”The Southern Harmony and Musical Companion”
By the time they released The Southern Harmony and Musical Companion, their second studio album, The Black Crowes were already a popular band. This album would continue their dominance, achieving a record four album rock number one hits, and debuted at the number 1 spot on the Billboard 200 album chart as well. The Black Crowes were originally an Atlanta band during a time when hair bands were on the way down and grunge was on its way up. Their Southern rock and blues rock style seemed to hit a sweet spot with fans.
The name of the album is taken from the title of an 1835 shape note hymnal compiled by Baptist song leader William Walker.
Brothers Chris and Rich Robinson were joined in the band by Johnny Colt on bass, Steve Gorman on drums, and newcomer Marc Ford on guitar who replaced Jeff Cease. Keyboardist Eddie Harsch was also added at this time and would later be named as a full band member.
The Black Crowes have sold more than 30 million albums, and Melody Maker magazine calls them “The Most Rock 'n' Roll Rock 'n' Roll Band in the World.” Though only Chris and Rich Robinson remain from the original band, the Black Crowes continue to tour and record as of 2023.
Lynch takes us on a journey down this blues rock album path.

Sting Me
The opening track on the album was also the second commercial single released. It has a female vocal backing that hearkens back to southern gospel choirs. The lyrics are about a girl that keeps breaking the singer's heart, or it could also be about heroin use. The Black Crowes were vocal proponents of legalization for recreational drugs.
Black Moon Creeping
Fuzzy guitar distortion and harmonica drive this deep cut. The lyrics are about people keeping secrets, and it has a little darker, funky edge. “What you got buried in your back yard? What secret do you sleep with when the black moon come?”
Remedy
This is the big hit from the album, which reached number 48 on the Billboard Hot 100 and number 1 on the Billboard album rock tracks chart. It is about freedom, and was written in response to the war on drugs.

ENTERTAINMENT TRACK:
Theme song from the late night variety show “The Tonight Show”
Johnny Carson would take a final bow this month on his iconic late night show, to be replaced by Jay Leno.

STAFF PICKS:
The Wild Life by Slaughter
Rob leads off the staff picks with a hair metal anthem. This is from Slaughter's second album of the same name. The band gets its name from its founder and front man Mark Slaughter. The album debuted at number 8 on the Billboard 200 Album Charts. Slaughter had five studio albums and three live albums.
Temple of Love by The Sisters of Mercy
Wayne rocks out with a song re-released in 1992, and originally performed in 1983. The Sisters of Mercy are from the UK underground scene, and this is their biggest hit, though it did not do well in the States. The name of the group comes from a Leonard Cohen song.
The Ballad of Peter Pumpkinhead by XTC
British post punk band XTC dropped this song on their 12th studio album, Nonsuch. It went to number 1 on the Billboard Modern Rock Tracks chart. XTC founter Andy Partridge was inspired to write this song after watching a carved jack o'-lantern that he had put on his fence post decay over time. The Crash Test Dummies would cover this song in 1994's comedy film “Dumb and Dumber.”
Cats in the Cradle by Ugly Kid Joe
Lynch features a cover of a song originally done by Harry Chapin in 1974. The Ugly Kid Joe version made it to number 6 on the Billboard Hot 100. The song is about a father who doesn't make time for his son as he grows up, and reaps what he sews when the son doesn't have time for the father as an adult.

NOVELTYTRACK:
Summer Song by Joe Satriani
Guitar virtuoso Joe Satriani had a huge hit with this instrumental from his "Extremist" 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.
42 min
March 06, 2023 1988 - July: Living Colour ”Vivid”
Vivid is the debut album from Living Colour, and it was a commercial and critical success, peaking at number 6 on the Billboard 200 album charts. Vernon Reid formed Living Color in New York in 1984. Reid is from England and used the British spelling of the band. It was known as "Vernon Reid's Living Colour" for the first couple of years, and evolved through a number of band members and genres including jazz, punk, experimental rock, and funk.
The lineup for the debut album was set by 1986, and consisted of Reid on guitars, Corey Clover on vocals, Muzz Skillings on bass, and Will Calhoun on drums. The group settled on a hard rock to heavy metal approach to their music, though elements of funk and jazz remain. They built their experience playing in New York's CBGB club where they built up a following, eventually including Rolling Stones front man Mick Jagger.
Living Colour is an all black band playing hard rock music, which is uncommon. Vernon Reid pushed for acceptance of black musicians in alternative music genres, forming the Black Rock Coalition in 1985 to support development and exposure. During a time when highly produced hair metal bands were common, Living Colour was refreshingly different. The band entered the studios in December 2022 to record their seventh album.
Bruce brings this group and their debut album to the podcast.

Funny Vibe
This track was performed in their earlier days and was reworked for the album with a harder rock sound. It features Chuck D and Flava Flav from Public Enemy. It is about racial stereotyping - something Vernon Reid had to deal with in the music industry when he's bringing an all-black group onto the rock scene.
Cult of Personality
This is the song which really launched Living Colour into a worldwide phenomenon. It hit number 13 on the Billboard Hot 100. Reid said it was essentially written in just one rehearsal session, and is the only song on the album written by all the band members. The title comes from a report Nikita Khrushchev wrote in 1956 on Stalin called "On the Cult of Personality and Its Consequences."
Open Letter (to a Landlord)
A poet named Tracie Morris was part of the Black Rock Coalition, and Reid got her help on the lyrics for this song. It is inspired by concern over the gentrification of the East Village in New York City, pushing out long term tenants and replacing them with "yuppies."
Glamour Boys
The third single from the album is about men obsessed with high society. Mick Jagger is on backing vocals. Jagger came to know the band through working with bassist Doug Wimbush who would replace Skillings as bassist in 1992 in the band. Jagger produced a couple of their demos.

ENTERTAINMENT TRACK:
Hippy Hippy Shake by the Georgia Satellites (from the motion picture "Cocktail")
This cover appeared on the soundtrack to a movie featuring Tom Cruise flipping bottles of rum as a showman bartender in exotic Caribbean locales.

STAFF PICKS:
Tutti Frutti by Little Richard
Wayne does a little double dipping on the Entertainment track. Little Richard's hit made its way back on the charts when it appeared on the "Cocktail" motion picture soundtrack. The line "aw rooty" was a slang expression for "all right!" Many rock and roll staples would be introduced in this song, including the loud volume, powerful vocal style, and distinctive rhythm.
Nothin' But a Good Time by Poison
According to Poison drummer Rikki Rockett, John's staff pick was written during a time the band was living in a downtown LA warehouse with no money, and getting fast food and going to the beach was a good time. The song was written for the everyday person making it through the work week and just looking for a good time at the end of it all.
Peek-a-Boo by Siouxsie & the Banshees
Rob brings us a post-punk group with their breakthrough U.S. hit. Featuring a looping brass part played in reverse and unusual instruments like the accordion, Vocalist Siouxsie Sioux added to the unusual nature of the song by using a different microphone for each line. Peek-a-boo would reach number 53 on the Billboard Hot 100.
Fast Car by Tracy Chapman
Bruce's staff pick was originally released in April, but Chapman really moved up the charts after appearing at the Nelson Mandela 70th Birthday tribute concert. Stevie Wonder was supposed to be the surprise guest star, but when his keyboard hard disk went missing, Tracy Chapman was ushered back on stage in prime time with just a microphone and a guitar. The song she performed was a sad, stark tale of a woman trapped in poverty, reminiscing about a time when she felt she could be someone.

NOVELTY TRACK:
Parents Just Don't Understand by DJ Jazzy Jeff and the Fresh Prince
Before becoming a film icon and celebrity, Will Smith got his start as the Fresh Prince. This comedy rap did well on the charts in 1988.
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.
40 min
February 27, 2023 1973 - November: the New York Dolls ”New York Dolls”
Although neither popular nor long-lived as a band, the New York Dolls were one of the most influential bands of the punk and glam rock genres. Their debut album, the eponymously named New York Dolls came out on the strength of their lower Manhattan fan base and received critical acclaim. However, their appeal outside of New York was limited and the album was considered a commercial failure in the United States.
The New York Dolls (also known as “The Dolls”) sported an androgynous look onstage, dressing in satin, high heels, dresses, and lots of makeup. Much of their wardrobe was acquired at a local Salvation Army thrift store.
The band personnel included David Johansen on vocals, Arthur “Killer” Kane on bass, Jerry Nolan on drums, Sylvain Sylvain on keyboards, rhythm guitar and vocals, and Johnny Thunder on lead guitar and vocals. Front man David Johansen would later perform under the name Buster Poindexter.
Although the band would produce only one other album after their debut, their influence was significant for both punk rock and glam rock genres.
Wayne brings us this forerunner of punk that is “too fast to live, too young to die.”

Frankenstein
This song is sometimes listed as “Frankenstein (Orig.)” because Edgar Winter's song of the same name had already been released prior to the band recording their own, though it had been used in their live shows previously. The song was inspired by how repressed kids would gravitate to Manhattan from all over.
Pills
The only cover on the album was a 1963 Bo Diddley song. “While I was laying in a hospital bed, a rock n' roll nurse went through my head. She says, "hold out your arm, stick out yo' toungue, I got some pills, boy, I'm 'on give you one.”
Jet Boy
This track has a more heavy metal sound in the guitar. The lyrics are simply about a jet boy who stole a baby. There is little explanation as to what a jet boy is other than to say that he flies around New York City. “Jet Boy” was a 50's era comic superhero.
Bad Girl
The vocal parts on this track hearken back to a 1950's style, and it also features a boogie rhythm.

ENTERTAINMENT TRACK:
Oo-De-Lally by Roger Miller (from the animated picture “Robin Hood”)
Yes, it is a stark departure from the Dolls. Disney rolled out their take on the animated Robin Hood tale in this picture featuring Robin Hood as a fox.

STAFF PICKS:
Over the Hills and Far Away by Led Zeppelin
Rob leads out the staff picks with a great acoustic riff from Jimmy Page, layering 6- and 12-string guitars. The lyrics were inspired by the feelings of the band touring on the road. This is a single off Led Zeppelin's fifth studio album, Houses of the Holy, and made it to number 51 on the charts.
We Can Make It Right by Sherbet
Bruce's staff pick is a group that never broke into the US market in a big way, but was one of the biggest pop rock acts in Australia in the 1970's. This track leads off the second studio album entitled “On With the Show,” which hit number 6 on the Australian charts. The song was co-written by Sherbs keyboardist Garth Porter and guitarist Clive Shakespeare.
Long Train Runnin' by The Doobie Brothers
Lynch features a well known riff from the Tom Johnston vocal era of the Doobies. The group played “Long Train Runnin'” for three years before it was recorded, and it went through a number of names an iterations before its final form was created in the studio.
Still...You Turn Me On by Emerson, Lake & Palmer
Wayne wraps up the staff picks with a ballad from prog rock power trio Keith Emerson (keyboards) Greg Lake (guitar and vocals) and Carl Palmer (percussion). This is more acoustic rock with a little psychedelic rock thrown in than prog rock, but it is a hauntingly beautiful song. The lyrics are inspired by the feeling of playing in front of an audience.

COMEDY TRACK:
Sister Mary Elephant by Cheech & Chong
A number of comedy sketches were released by this duo, including this Catholic school class skit.
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.
39 min
February 20, 2023 1975 - June: War ”Why Can’t We Be Friends?”
Defining a genre for the group War is a difficult process. There are elements of Latin, R&B, funk, soul, and rock mixed in. Some call it progressive soul. War came from Long Beach, California in 1969, and began as a backing band for Deacon Jones. The band was originally led by Eric Burden of the Animals and were known as Eric Burden and War for their first tow albums, then as War after Burden left the group.
Their seventh studio album, Why Can't We Be Friends? would continue a tradition of successful albums for the band, going to number 8 on the US charts, number 1 on the R&B sharts, and two singles would be nominated for the Grammy awards in 1976.
War had a large number of musicians, and much of their personnel rotated in and out of the group. For this album the group was Howard Scott on guitar, B.B. Dickerson on bass, Lonnie Jordan on organ, Papa Dee Allen on conga and bongos, Charles Miller on clarinet and sax, and Lee Oskar on harmonica. All members are also listed on percussion and vocals.
War was a band with a purpose. The goal of the band from the beginning was to spread a message of brotherhood and harmony, and to speak out against racism, hunger, gangs, and crimes.
Bruce brings us this funky fusion band for discussion..

Why Can't We Be Friends?
The title track reached number 6 on the Billboard Hot 100. Each band member gets their own verse to sing. The title is sung 44 times. It was played in outer space during the Apollo-Soyuz Test Project. Smash Mouth did a cover in 1998 as the second single from their debut album.
Heartbeat
This is a deeper cut with a lot of funk. You could easily hear George Clinton and Parliament doing this piece. The lyrics are about not worrying about things, but being in the present. "Ain't no need a-worryin' about the future. Ain't no need a-worryin'."
Don't Let No One Get You Down
Leading off the album, this song is a piece of encouragement, letting the listener know they will always be lifted up by the singer. "Don't let no one get you down, cause if they do, if they do, I'll be around."
Low Rider
The big hit off the album would become iconic over time. The song is about a car and a culture in Southern California. A low rider is a car modified with hydraulic lifts so the wheels can be lowered and make the car bounce. The band maintains that the references are not to drug culture, although the song did make it into a couple of Cheech and Chong movies..

ENTERTAINMENT TRACK:
Main Theme to the motion picture "Jaws"
This movie was keeping everyone out of the water in the summer of 1975.

STAFF PICKS:
Welcome to My Nightmare by Alice Cooper
Wayne starts off the staff picks with the title song from a concept album that chronicles a journey through the nightmares of a child named Steven. Cooper would later perform this song on "The Muppet Show." It peaked at number 45 on the Billboard Hot 100.
Take Me In Your Arms (Rock Me a Little While) by The Doobie Brothers
Rob brings us a cover from Motown. Holland-Dozier-Holland wrote this one, originally performed by Kim Weston in 1964. While the original version peaked at number 50 on the Billboard Hot 100, the Doobie Brothers version was more successful, peaking at number 11.
Sister Golden Hair by America
Brian features a track that went to number 1 on the charts. This is a relationship song according to Gerry Beckley, and it was made as a demo before America recorded their fourth album. It didn't make the cut for that album, and so was included in their next album.
Magic by Pilot
Bruce's staff pick is the first hit single from short-lived Scottish pop rock band pilot. The inspiration for this song is a sunrise on Blackford Hill in Edinburgh. Lead singer David Paton also worked with the original lineup of The Alan Parson's Project, and worked with Kate Bush, Camel, and Rick Wakeman. The band had a couple of other hits before splitting in 1977.

NOVELTY TRACK:
You Never Even Called Me By My Name by David Allen Coe
The perfect country and western song was released in 1975, and reached number 8 on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart.
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.
43 min
February 13, 2023 1991 - March: Drivin’ N’ Cryin’ ”Fly Me Courageous”
Drivin' N' Cryin' hit the peak of their commercial success with this fourth studio album, Fly Me Courageous. It was released in January at the same time as the start of the Persian Gulf War, and they benefitted from patriotic associations the title song received. The album peaked at 90 on the Billboard 200 album chart.
The band at the time included Buren Fowler on guitar, Kevin Kinney on guitar and vocals, Tim Nielson on bass and backing vocals, and Jeff Sullivan on percussion. The album was produced and engineered by Geoff Workman, an English producer who also worked with Journey, The Cars, and Queen.
The name Drivin' N' Cryin' was a reference to the band's fusion of driving rock and roll and a bit of a country twang (the crying).
Georgia based Drivin' N' Cryin' had formed in 1985, honing their craft at the 688 Club in Atlanta. The band released a number of albums and singles prior to Fly Me Courageous which had been successful on college and independent radio. This album was more rock oriented, as would be their follow-up album, Smoke. Drivin' N' Cryin' would tour with Neil Young and with Soul Asylum.
Drivin' N' Cryin' tours today, and is a great act to see live.
Rob brings us this Georgia band this week.

Fly Me Courageous
The title track took off quite literally with the start of the Gulf War. It was considered a patriotic song and was included in the playlists of many military pilots, even though the song itself is more about confronting aggression than celebrating it. The band received a number of requests to perform at military bases after the release of this track, which hit number 19 on the US Mainstream Rock charts.
The Innocent
This track was also a successful single, and starts with a parody of the US Constitution. It talks about the discrepancy between politicians providing hand-outs and the desire of people to improve themselves. "Get used to it. The innocent."
Around the Block Again
A deeper cut, this fast paced track has a sound reminiscent of Rod Stewart or the Rolling Stones. The lyrics reflect hypocrisy in religion, relationships, and music.
Build a Fire
This shuffle beat single has a bit of a punk rock feel, and even has a small rap sequence in the middle. "Bored with the American holstered blues, peace signs on just about everything. Don't know where to turn or what they say."

ENTERTAINMENT TRACK:
Break On Through (To the Other Side) by the Doors (from the motion picture sountrack "The Doors")
Val Kilmer owns the role as Jim Morrison in this movie about the band.

STAFF PICKS:
American Society by L7
Wayne starts off the staff picks with an all-female punk band, that often gets associated with the Nirvana grunge sound. This is a cover song originally done by a punk band called "Eddie and the Subtitles" from Orange County, California in the early 80's.
All This Time by Sting
Bruce features the first single off Sting's third studio album, "The Soul Cages." Sting had writer's block for several years after the death of his father in 1987, and many songs on this album reflect the tumultuous relationship he had with his father.
It Ain't Over 'Til It's Over by Lenny Kravitz
John brings us a crossover hit that went to number 2 on the Billboard Hot 100. The style was inspired by Motown and Earth, Wind & Fire. The lyrics reflect the marital struggles Kravitz was experiencing with his then-wife Lisa Bonet.
Someone to Love by Roger McGuinn
Rob closes out the staff picks with former Byrds front man Roger McGuinn and a single from his sixth studio album, "Back from Rio." This is the lead-off track from the album. It made it to number 12 on the Mainstream Rock charts. McGuinn used a number of familiar artists on his album, including Tom Petty & the Heartbreakers and David Crosby.

COMEDY TRACK:
Lisa, Lisa (The One I Adore) by Pauly Shore
Pauly Shore was all over MTV during the early 90's.
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.
38 min
February 06, 2023 1989 - January: Skid Row ”Skid Row”
Hair band Skid Row hails from Tom's River, New Jersay. The band was formed in 1986 by bassist Rachel Boland and guitarist Dave "Snake" Sabo, and rounded out with guitarist Scotti Hill and drummer Rob Affuso. Lead vocalist Sebastian Bach was recruited after being seen as a wedding singer at the age of 18 well before Adam Sandler would reveal this as a potential career option and path to love and fame. Sabo was a high school friend of Jon Bon Jovi, and the two made a pact that if one was sucessful in the music business they would help the other out. This led to Bon Jovi's manager Doc McGee seeking out Skid Row and getting them a contract with Atlantic Records in 1988.
Skid Row was the band's eponymously titled debut album, and it would prove to be a huge success over time. Though it received mixed critical reviews, the album went to number 6 on the Billboard 200 charts, and would be certified 5x platinum in 1995 by the RIAA. The band headlined tours for Bon Jovi and Aerosmith in 1989-1990.
Bach would be the front man for the band for their first three albums until 1996, when friction between himself and Sabo led to his departure. Skid Row is still active as of 2022, and has released six albums to date.
John Lynch takes the helm on this album in his debut as a permanent member of the What the Riff crew.

Youth Gone Wild
This rocking anthem was the first single released from the album. No matter what walk of life you are from, you are one of us - the youth gone wild. Be true to yourself and not to what others expect of you. "Hi man, there's something that you oughta know. I tell ya Park Avenue leads to Skid Row."
I Remember You
The third single would be the one to really put Skid Row on the map. It is a power ballad depicting a guy who can't get over a long lost love. Bass player Rachel Bolan contributed the lyrics. The line "love letters in the sand" was also the title of a number 1 hit from 1957 by Pat Boone.
Sweet Little Sister
A deeper cut that sounds a lot like Motley Crue chronicles the trouble that a boy crazy sister of a member of the band can create. "For such a sweet little lady I would swear she's rotten to the core. Oh yes she got her hands in the cookie jar."
18 and Life
This darker ballad tells the story of Ricky who kills someone with a gun while drunk and is sentenced to life in prison. Dave "Snake" Sabo and Rachel Bolan wrote the song after reading a story in the local paper about an 18 year old who accidentally killed his friend with a gun he thought was unloaded.

ENTERTAINMENT TRACK:
Theme song from the animated series “ALF: The Animated Series”
After its "real life" series, the cat-munching alien ALF returned in animated form. It finished its run in 1989.

STAFF PICKS:
Charlotte Anne by Julian Cope
Bruce leads off the staff picks with a forgotten song that hit number 1 on the Modern Rock Tracks chart at the time. This is the first single from Cope's fourth solo album "My Nation Underground," an album that Cope considers to be a poor album. Julian Cope comes out of the Liverpool punk scene, and his solo work is a bit reminiscent of the Cure.
Driven Out by The Fixx
Rob brings us British new wave band The Fixx in a work off their fifth album. It talks about the pillaging of the land driven by greed. "I'm cooking with microwaves to warm up food not seen the soil - plugged into my TV, used to the lies their telling me." It hit number 55 on the Billboard Hot 100, and number 1 on the mainstream rock charts.
Funky Cold Medina by Tone Loc
Wayne's staff pick was everywhere in 1989. A funky cold medina was an aphrodisiac, and its use would get the singer into all kinds of trouble when he gives it to his dog, or to a girl who turns out to be a transvestite. It peaked at number 3 on the charts, and if the main beat sounds familiar, it may be because it comes from "Hot Blooded" by Foreigner.
Two Hearts by Phil Collins
John features a song Collins sang for his poorly received film "Buster." Lamont Dozier of Motown fame wrote this song, and it was Dozier's 14th and last number 1 song. It is about two people connected through time and space even when they are not together.

NOVELTYTRACK:
Let's Put the X in Sex by Kiss
Even rock legends put out a failure from time to time. This could be considered one of those - you be the judge!
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.
41 min

About What the Riff Next Gen

From the publisher's feed

Every episode of “WHAT THE RIFF NEXT GEN” brings a ROCK AND ROLL album that debuted on the U.S. Billboard charts during a random month between 1995 and 2005. Four Classic Rock fans discuss the artist and 4 tracks from the album as it plays in the background. Then we riff on 3 additional “staff picks” of other artists that were also on the charts during that month and year. You’ll hear Classic Rock bands that were still producing new work, as well as some newer Alternative and Grunge bands that were gaining momentum during this Millennium Y2K Period. We encourage you to find and purchase the tracks and albums from Apple Music, Spotify or your other favorite music service. Please subscribe so you don’t miss any release! In addition to “Next Gen” you can search our ORIGINAL “What the Riff?!?” episodes (1-373) covering 1965 - 1995. We also invite you to follow us and learn more about us @whattheriff on Facebook.

Share What the Riff Next Gen

Sign up to save your podcasts

What the Riff Next Gen

What the Riff Next Gen episodes

About What the Riff Next Gen

More shows like What the Riff Next Gen

Hit Parade | Music History and Music Trivia