What the Riff Next Gen

What the Riff Next Gen

By Rob Marbury, Wayne Rowan, Bruce Fricks, John LynchMusicMusic Commentary
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What the Riff Next Gen episodes

  • 1980 - January: Pink Floyd “The Wall”

    Pink Floyd would score another big hit and some mainstream crossover success with their eleventh studio album, The Wall.  Originally conceived by bassist Roger Waters, The Wall explores the self-isolation of a cynical rock star named Pink, and portrays events in his life from the loss of his father, to childhood trauma, to the pressures of rock stardom as bricks forming the wall.  Parts of the story are autobiographical from Waters, and parts naturally are based on former front man Syd Barrett.  The album was a commercial success, the most successful double album of all time, the second most popular Pink Floyd album behind their monstrous hit "Dark Side of the Moon," and would produce the groups only number 1 single on the charts with "Another Brick in the Wall, part 2."  Critical reviews were mixed at first, with some considering the rock opera to be pretentious, but the reviews would turn more positive over time.

    This would be the last album to feature the classic band lineup.  Richard Wright would be fired by Roger Waters during production, though he would stay on as a studio musician for the album.  One further studio album would be produced before acrimony would lead to Waters departure from the band.

    What the Riff co-founder Brian Dickhute brings us this album for today's podcast.  Brian is also using this as a swan song of sorts as he takes a break from regular podcasting duties to spend more time with the family.  Thanks so much for all your work over these hundreds of podcasts, Brian!

     

    Hey You

    This well-known track leads off side three of the album and reflects the desperation as Pink realizes how the wall of isolation he has built has trapped him in a cell of his own creation.  The inspiration for this song was the breakup of Waters' marriage.

    Is There Anybody Out There?

    In the film this song is used to transition from Pink the rock star to Pink the dictator.  Session musician Joe DiBlasi was brought in to play the fingerstyle guitar on this piece.

    Nobody's Home

    The last song written for the album was the result of a fight between Roger Waters and David Gilmour.  It was inspired by the isolation Waters felt during their 1977 tour and musings on Syd Barrett.  Some of the lyrics are also built around Richard Wright, keyboardist, who was allegedly dealing with drug addiction at the time.

    Vera

    This song is a flashback to days of World War II.  The title was inspired by Vera Lynn, a British singer popular during the war who sang the song "We'll Meet Again."  Waters lost his grandfather in WWI and his father in WWII.

    Bring the Boys Back Home

    Roger Waters considers this brief song the central theme of the album.  The idea is that not just war, but all activity including business and rock music should not be allowed to isolate a person from friends and family. 

    Comfortably Numb

    One of the more popular songs from the album, the music was written by David Gilmour and the lyrics by Roger Waters.  A significant argument occurred between Gilmour and Waters on the arrangement of this piece, with Gilmour preferring a stripped-down format and Watters wanting a more symphonic approach.  The contrasting sections of orchestration and more simplistic riffs is the result of the compromise made for the piece.

     

    ENTERTAINMENT TRACK:

    Frosty the Snowman by Jimmy Durante 

    No, it isn't Christmas again.  Popular entertainer Jimmy Durante passed away in January of 1980, and his is one of his best known songs. 

     

    STAFF PICKS:

    The Spirit of Radio by Rush 

    Bruce sneaks another Rush song in for Brian's final episode as a regular podcaster.  The lead-off track to Rush's album "Permanent Waves" was inspired by the slogan of CFNY-FM in Toronto.  FM radio was moving from a more free-form format to a more commercial format, and CFNY was bucking the trend.  

    Damned If I Do by the Alan Parsons Project

    Rob brings us a piece from Alan Parsons' fourth studio album called "Eve."  The album is focused on the strength and characteristics of women and the difficulties they face in a world of men.  "Damned if I do, damned if I don't, but I love you."

    Boom Boom (Out Go the Lights) by Pat Travers 

    Wayne's staff pick is a boogie woogie cover of a blues song originally released by Little Walter in 1957.  It is a well known party song which would not be politically correct today.  There's some great guitar playing, and an excellent call-and-response in the live version.  

    Ladies Night by Kool & The Gang

    Brian's staff pick was a popular song in the dying days of disco.  This song would see a revitalization of Kool & the Gang's popularity going into the early 80's.  

       

    INSTRUMENTAL TRACK:

    Pipeline '76 by Roger Powell

    It is unusual to find surfing instrumentals during the early 80's, but this one was around at the time.  

    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.

    44 min
  • 1970 - September: Black Sabbath “Paranoid”

    Rolling Stone magazine ranked Paranoid, the second studio album by Black Sabbath, to be the number one of its "100 Greatest Metal Albums of All Time."  Originally known by the name Earth, the band took the name Black Sabbath from a 1963 horror film starring Boris Karloff.  The band members were Bill Ward on percussion, Geezer Butler on bass, Tony Iommi on guitar, and Ozzy Osbourne on vocals.  It was originally a heavy blues band from Birmingham, England, but took on a darker complexion with lyrics of doom.

    Much of the music on Paranoid was developed during jams while the band was on the road.

    This album was panned by critics at the time, but it reached number 12 on the US charts.  This is quite a feat, considering that the band received virtually no airplay on rock radio when the album came out.  It would come to be considered a great heavy metal album, and Black Sabbath would be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

    Wayne brings us this forerunner of prog rock and heavy metal.

     

    War Pigs

    The lead track for the album was originally going to be called "Walpurgis," a term for a black magic wedding or a Satanic version of Christmas.  The label had concerns about this and had them change the title to War Pigs.  The lyrics are about warmongers trying to get the working class to fight the wars for them.

    Paranoid 

    This was the band's only top 10 hit in the UK, and it went to number 61 in the US.  Though named "paranoid," the song is really about depression.  The riffs bear a striking resemblance to Led Zeppelin's "Communication Breakdown."  Led Zeppelin was one of the band's favorite groups at the time.

    Rat Salad

    This track is largely a guitar and drum solo.  The name comes from a joke about Ward's hair not being combed.  This would be used in concerts as "filler" to give the vocalists a break.

    Iron Man 

    One of the more famous singles from Black Sabbath, it became even more famous after being used in Marvel's Iron Man movie. The lyrics are about a man who travels to the future and sees the apocalypse.  When he returns to the present, he is turned into steel, ignored by the population he tries to warn, and turns vengeful - causing the destruction seen in his vision.

     

    ENTERTAINMENT TRACK:

    Main theme from the television series “The Mary Tyler Moore Show”

    This sitcom set in Minneapolis benefitted from early 70's feminism as it featured a single career-oriented woman making her way on her own.

     

    STAFF PICKS:

    It's A Shame by The Spinners

    Bruce's staff pick brought the Spinners a hit at number 14 on the Billboard Hot 100, their first hit in about 5 years.  This single was co-written by Stevie Wonder and Syreeta Wright in their first collaboration.  Wonder and Wright would get married in September of 1970.  The Spinners would go on to have bigger success after signing with Atlantic in 1972.

    War by Edwin Starr 

    Rob brings us a classic protest song.  "War!  What is it good for?  Absolutely nothing."  Motown first released this song with the Temptations, but Starr would take it to number 1 with a heavier sound, reminiscent of James Brown.  The Undisputed Truth is the backing band on this song.

    I Want to Take You Higher by Ike and Tina Turner 

    Brian's staff pick is a cover originally performed by Sly & the Family Stone.  Ike and Tina Turner would take this song to number 13 on the charts, so they did ineed take it higher than the original which peaked at number 38.

    Tighter Tighter by Alive 'N Kickin' 

    Wayne features a one-hit wonder written by Tommy James that Alive N' Kickin' took to number 7.  The group split up shortly after the single fell off the charts.  They would reform in 1976, and still perform from time to time today.  Despite being a pop love song, it has a surprisingly solid guitar riff.

     

    NOVELTY TRACK:

    Rubber Duckie by Ernie

    This Sesame Street song was on the pop charts a number 16 on the Billboard Hot 100 in September of 1970.  

    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
  • 1966 - December: Sam & Dave “Double Dynamite”

    Sam Moore and Dave Prater were known as Sam & Dave, a huge soul act from the late 60's.  They were known as The Sultans of Sweat, The Dynamic Duo, and Double Dynamite.  This album is their second studio album out of Stax Records, also called Double Dynamite.

    Sam & Dave are considered one of the greatest live acts out of the 60's, and a lot of musicians cite their influence on their work, including some you would expect like Al Green and Michael Jackson.  There are also a lot of musicians who were influenced who were significantly removed from the R&B genre like Tom Petty, Elvis Costello, Bruce Springsteen, Billy Joel, and Steve Winwood.

    Sam & Dave got their start in church in gospel choirs.  They met on the gospel music circuit and sang together in small clubs where they developed their sound based on a call-and-response approach to music from the gospel tradition.  They were discovered at the King of Hearts nightclub in Miami in the early 60's, and signed to Marlin Records at first.  They eventually made it to Atlantic Records in 1964 from which they were loaned out to Memphis-based Stax Records.  Stax had a lot of offer Sam & Dave, including the Stax horn section called the Mar-Keys, and their house band, Booker T. and the M.G.'s.

    Bruce brings us this icon of soul, and friend of the show John Lynch joins us for this discussion.

     

    You Got Me Hummin'

    Leading off the album, this single was written by Isaac Hayes and David Porter.  Sam & Dave took this hit to number 8 on the R&B charts, and number 77 on the Billboard Hot 100.  A number of other groups would do this song, including Freddie Fender and the Pointer Sisters.  Its highest charting on the Billboard Hot 100 was number 52 by Cold Blood.

    Just Can't Get Enough

    This is a deeper cut, though I imagine just about any Sam & Dave song could be familiar with the number of covers or singers inspired by their songs.  This one has some lyrics that might be difficult to sing today - "The more I get the more I want.  It makes me feel good 'cause you never say don't.  I just cant get enough."  

    Sweet Pains

    This track is another deep cut.  This one takes a description comparing love to pain, a path that would be echoed in John Cougar's "Hurts So Good," and Sade's "Sweetest Taboo."  "Sweet pains, feels good."

    When Something Is Wrong with My Baby

    The big hit off the album was their only ballad single.  Hayes and Porter wrote it, and you have both Booker T and the MG's and the Mar-Keys horns playing on it.  A bunch of people have covered this song, including Jonny Gill, Charlie Rich, and in 1990 Linda Ronstadt and Aaron Neville did well with it.

     

    ENTERTAINMENT TRACK:

    Marching Theme to the motion picture "Follow Me, Boys!"

    This Boy Scout themed movie starring a young Kurt Russel was the last film Disney Studios released prior to Walt Disney's death.  

     

    STAFF PICKS:

    Mellow Yellow by Donovan

    Rob kicks off the staff picks with a psychedelic hit.  Scottish singer-songwriter Donovan took this song to number 2 on the Billboard Hot 100.  Some thought the song was about a type of drug, but it was actually about a...well, let's just say it is an adult toy.

    Talk Talk by The Music Machine

    Wayne's staff pick is a garage band one-hit wonder.  This song would use some techniques which were novel at the time, including the use of a fuzz box on the bass line, and tuning the instruments down a half step to produce a heavier sound.  

    If I Were a Carpenter by Bobby Darin 

    Brian brings us a song written by Tim Hardin and popularized by Bobby Darin.  It hit number 8 on the Billboard Hot 100, Darin's first hit in three years.  The lyrics question whether an elegant woman would be satisfied with a man who was merely a carpenter.  Darin had passed on two songs, "Do You Believe In Magic" and "Summer in the City," both of which would be hits for the Lovin' Spoonful. 

    You Keep Me Hangin' On by The Supremes

    Friend of the show John Lynch brings us a big hit for Diana Ross and the Supremes.  It would also be a hit for a long list of cover artists including Vanilla Fudge, Phil Collins, Kim Wilde, and Rod Stewart.

     

    NOVELTY TRACK:

    Winchester Cathedral by The New Vaudeville Band

    This novelty song doubles up as Bruce's staff pick.  It was a number 1 hit in the United States and would win the Grammy for the best contemporary song in 1967, beating out singles from the Monkees, the Beach Boys, and the Beatles.

    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.

    29 min
  • 1978 - May: U.K. ”U.K.”

    The supergroup U.K. was founded by former King Crimson percussionist Bill Bruford (also a former founder of Yes) and bassist and vocalist John Wetton (also a former member of Uriah Heep, and Roxy Music).  After failing to reform King Crimson, each of the two brought in a musician they thought would work well in the group.  Wetton brought in Eddie Jobson, violinist and keyboardist from Frank Zappa's band.  Bruford brought in Allan Holdsworth on guitars (who had worked on Bruford's prior solo project.  

    Their self titled debut album was released in May, 1978.  Although a couple of songs were edited for single release, the album U.K. is best known as a prog rock masterpiece, and is cited as inspirational to many musicians who followed in the prog rock genre. 

    After an extensive tour supporting the album, Wetton and Jobson had a falling out with Holdsworth and fired him.  Bill Bruford left at that time and was replaced by Terry Bozzio, another alumnus of Frank Zappa's band and a future founding member of Missing Persons.  

    John Wetton would go on in the days after U.K. to be the front man for Asia.

    Rob brings us the prog rock monster-piece. 

     

     

    In the Dead of Night

    The track that leads off the album was one of two songs to be edited for release as a single.  On the album it is the first of three songs which form a continuous suite on the first album side.  The 7/4 time and the synthesizer - the Yamaha CS-80 had just been released - are prog rock hallmarks.  The electric violin is an unusual addition.

    By the Light of Day

    This track is the second movement of the "In the Dead of Night" suite.  Rather than have a clear change in tracks, there is a slow transition via a "spacey" interlude into the new song of the suite.  "Black clouds moving gray skies to thunder.  Kinetic sunrise fever and flood.  Fire and water element anger horizon melting to blood."

    Presto Vivace and Reprise

    This is the third movement of the "In the Dead of Night suite.  This is a much faster piece (as the term Vivace would suggest) before transitioning back into a reprise of "In the Dead of Night."

    Time to Kill

    The abrupt start to this song is due to the way the tracks drift into each other.  The concept is that of boredom, of being stuck in a place.  "Time to kill, going nowhere, killing time, staying where there's time to kill, going nowhere..."

     

    ENTERTAINMENT TRACK:

    That'll Be the Day by Buddy Holly (from the motion picture "The Buddy Holly Story") 

    Gary Busey was nominated for the Oscar for his portrayal of early rocker Buddy Holly in this film.  Busey would sing and play for the part.

     

    STAFF PICKS:

    Goodbye Girl by David Gates 

    Bruce leads off the staff picks with a soft rock solo from former Bread front man David Gates.  The song is from the Neil Simon movie "The Goodbye Girl," which would lead to Richard Dreyfuss becoming the youngest man to win an Oscar for Best Actor at the time.    

    Lay Down Sally by Eric Clapton  

    Brian presents a pop hit from Clapton's album Slowhand.  It went to number 3 on the Billboard Hot 100.  It was written by Clapton, George Terry (guitar), and Marcy Levy (who sings the female parts on the song).  It was written in the country blues style of J.J. Cale, and hit number 26 on the Hot Country Songs chart, Clapton's best showing on that chart as a crossover.

    Ain't It Fun by Dead Boys

    Wayne features a song from Cleveland's own Dead Boys.  This song appears on their second studio album, "We Have Come for Your Children."  They were known as one of the rowdiest bands on the punk scene.  It hit number 8 on the Mainstream Rock charts, and is an ode to the punk rock lifestyle.

    With a Little Luck by Wings

    Rob brings us Paul McCartney with a song recorded largely in the Virgin Islands on a yacht equipped with a 24-track mobile recording studio installed on it.  This single from the album "London Town" hit number 1 on the pop charts.  

     

    INSTRUMENTAL TRACK:

    Alaska by U.K. 

    This instrumental lets us do some double dipping with the track that leads off side 2 of the U.K. 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.

    41 min
  • 1969 - July: The Easy Rider Motion Picture Soundtrack

    The cult classic film Easy Rider was released this month.  A landmark counter culture movie, the film traces the journey of Wyatt and Billy as they make their way on motorcycles from a successful drug deal in Los Angeles to the Mardi Gras festival in New Orleans.  Peter Fonda, Dennis Hopper, and Terry Southern wrote the film, and it stars Fonda, Hopper, and Jack Nicholson.  Dennis Hopper directed the movie.  

    Originally the plan was for Crosby, Stills & Nash to do all the songs on the soundtrack.  When the editor plugged in contemporary songs as placeholders, the sound convinced Dennis Hopper to reverse this decision.

    The Easy Rider Soundtrack was crafted with contemporary late 60's music, and stands out as an excellent example of the music of the counterculture.  Each piece used in the movie was curated with the idea of maintaining the story.  

    Wayne brings us this forerunner of prog rock and heavy metal.

     

    Don't Bogart Me by Fraternity of Man

    Psychedelic and blues rock band the Fraternity of Man would have their biggest hit with this song.  It recommends generosity with illicit smoking materials.  This song originally appeared on their self-titled debut album in 1968 before being included in this soundtrack.

    Ballad of Easy Rider by Roger McGuinn

    Bob Dylan was an uncredited contributor on this song.  The Byrds front man Roger McGuinn performed this as a solo work.  It was the only song originally written for this film, and appeared on one of McGuinn's albums later.

    The Weight by The Band

    This song chronicles the experience of a visitor to Nazareth, Pennsylvania, even though much of its influence is from the American South.  Nazareth is the home of Martin guitars, and that is why the lyrics transfer to that location.  Licensing could not be gained for the soundtrack even though it was used in the film, so a group called Smith was used for the soundtrack instead of The Band.

    Born To Be Wild by Steppenwolf

    Steppenwolf's most successful single appeared on their debut album in 1968 before being used in "Easy Rider."  Many consider it to be the first heavy metal song, and the lyric "heavy metal thunder" contributes to that.  This song would be used as a motorcycle anthem from this time on.

     

    ENTERTAINMENT TRACK:

    Wasn't Born to Follow by The Byrds (from the motion picture “Easy Rider”)

    Yes, we get to do a little double dipping with our entertainment track this week.

     

    STAFF PICKS:

    Put a Little Love in Your Heart by Jackie DeShannon

    Rob opens this week's staff picks with a song that hit number 2 on the Billboard Hot 100, and it was used in the film "Drugstore Cowboy."  Jackie DeShannon is best known for the song, "What the World Needs Now is Love."  DeShannon also wrote "Betty Davis Eyes" for Kim Carnes.

    In the Ghetto by Elvis Presley 

    Brian brings us The King with a poignant song about a child from the dirt street part of town.  Writer Mac Davis was inspired by the story of a friend who grew up in poverty.  Elvis completely identified with this song because of his impoverished upbringing.

    I Can Sing a Rainbow/Love Is Blue by the Dells 

    Bruce's staff pick is a cover medley of Sing a Rainbow, best known in its 1955 rendition by Peggy Lee, and Love is Blue, originally a French song best known as an instrumental easy listening piece by Paul Mauriat that was a number 1 hit in March of 1968.  the Dells hit number 22 on the US charts with this version during the height of their success between 1966 and 1973.

    I'd Rather Be an Old Man's Sweetheart by Candi Staton 

    Wayne features a soul hit from Muscle Shoals.  This is Staton's first hit, rising to number 9 on the R&B charts, and number 46 on the pop charts.  Staton is known as the "First Lady of Southern Soul."  "I'd rather be an old man's sweetheart than a young man's fool." 

     

    INSTRUMENTAL TRACK:

    A Boy Named Sue by Johnny Cash

    Cash released this novelty song telling the story of a boy who had to grow up tough after his absentee father left him with the name of Sue.

    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.

    32 min
  • 1974 - March: Gordon Lightfoot “Sundown”

    Canadian singer-songwriter Gordon Lightfoot would see his commercial success zenith with this tenth studio album, Sundown.  Lightfoot got his start in music at an early age, singing in the choir at St. Paul's United Church in Orillia, Ontario as a child. As a young man he lived in California for a short period, studying jazz composition and writing jingles to support himself, but he soon chose to return to his native Canada and never left.  Gordon Lightfoot would inspire many artists - Bob Dylan considered him a type of mentor - and numerous artists would cover his songs, including artists like Glenn Campbell, Olivia Newton-John, Eric Clapton, Bob Dylan, and the Grateful Dead. 

    Sundown showcases Lightfoot's folk and country blend.  It hit number 1 on the US Billboard 200 charts, the only Lightfoot album to do so to date.  

    Lightfoot's baritone voice and acoustic-led approach to songwriting would prove a powerful formula for success in the soft rock genre of the 70's.  Gordon Lightfoot would continue writing songs for many years, and his 21'st studio album was released in 2020.

    Brian brings us this album for today's podcast.

     

    Sundown

    The title track was inspired by Lightfoot's then-girlfriend, Cathy Smith.  She would spend a lot of time drinking in the bars during the day while Lightfoot was working on the album, and he worried about her running off with someone.  And yes, the song was written around sundown.  It was Lightfoot's only Number 1 song on the Billboard Hot 100.

    High and Dry

    This upbeat folk song references the sea as a metaphor for a girl who the singer hopes will settle down before she gets left high and dry.  The female harmonies on this song are from Cathy Smith, with whom Lightfoot was having a tumultuous relationship (see above: “Sundown.”).

    The Watchman’s Gone

    Speculation abounds that the Watchman in this deeper cut may be alcohol, or the devil, or maybe death.  "You better beware, knowin' the watchman's always there."

    Carefree Highway

    This song peaked at number 10 on the Billboard Hot 100.  It tells of the highway as a means to escape the oft-returning thoughts of a relationship that was lost long ago.  Lightfoot saw a sign to Carefree, Arizona, and that inspired the title.

     

    ENTERTAINMENT TRACK:

    Day By Day by Robin Lamont (from the motion picture “Godspell”) 

    This song was on the charts at the time.  It came from the motion picture, based on the musical "Godspell."

     

    STAFF PICKS:

    Music Eyes by Hartsfield 

    Wayne leads off the staff picks with an underrated but epic song.  JC Hartsfield and Perry Jordan created the band in 1970 in Chicago, though the band has more of a country rock or southern rock sound.  Perry Jordan died in 2011, and JC Hartsfield died after a motorcycle accident in 2014.  The song was written by Jordan and inspired by a friend's 3 year-old daughter.

    Spiders and Snakes by Jim Stafford

    Rob brings us this novelty song with a swamp rock feel.  Stafford cautions all the guys on being a bit too boyish around the women.  "I don't like spiders and snakes, and that ain't what it takes to love me."

    Rock On by David Essex 

    Bruce's staff pick takes a psychedelic turn.  Essex would take this song to number 5 on the Billboard Hot 100.  It is an ode to the old days of Rock and Roll, with its reference to James Dean, blue suede shoes, and summertime blues.  Michael Damian would take a cover to number 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1989.

    Boogie Down by Eddie Kendricks

    Brian's staff pick takes a dangerously disco turn.  Singer-songwriter Eddie Kendricks who co-founded the Temptations would do well in this solo outing.  This falsetto song just missed the top of the charts, hitting number 2 on the Billboard Hot 100.  

       

    COMEDY TRACK:

    The Streak by Ray Stevens

    And with that, we're off and running.  He likes to show off his physique.  Boogity, Boogity!

    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
  • 1984 - December: Foreigner ”Agent Provocateur”

    Foreigner took  some significant time between their fourth and fifth studio albums.  Agent Provocateur was released in December of 1984 and made it to number 5 on the US charts.  Interestingly it hit number 1 in the UK, the only Foreigner album to do so.  It had a balance of heavier rock songs and lighter ballads, allowing the group to appeal to both male and female fans.

    At the time, Foreigner consisted of Lou Gramm on lead vocals and percussion, Mick Jones on guitars and keyboards, Rick Wills on bass, and Dennis Elliott on drums.  Jones and Gramm are the primary songwriters, and their differences fuel an excellent sound.  Unfortunately, writing credits around this album and its big hit, "I Want to Know What Love Is" would drive dissent.  Gramm would appear on the next Foreigner album, then would split from the group.

    Friend of the show John Lynch joins us in Bruce's absence, and Rob brings us this album.

     

    Tooth and Nail

    The track that leads off the album was co-written by Mick Jones and Lou Gramm.  While it received some airplay, this rocker is an underrated song from Foreigner.  The lyrics describe a boy considered to be not good enough for the girl, and the fight that he would wage to be worthy of her.

    Reaction to Action

    The third single from the album is a more hard rocking and energetic song than the first two singles.   Jones and Gramm share writing credits for this one as well.  The lyrics tell of an intriguing girl and how her actions prompt a "reaction to action."

    A Love in Vain

    This deeper cut has a heavy synthesizer sound and a lighter rock feel.  This song is also a good showcase of Gramm's vocals.

    I Want to Know What Love Is

    This is the first single and big hit from the album.  It was the song that propelled the album, but drove a wedge between Gramm and Jones.  The track features a New Jersey choir backing Gramm's vocals.  Mick Jones spent a lot of time with the choir, freeing Gramm to sing as he wished.  This freedom, coupled with disputes about writing credits, would drive later decisions for Gramm to depart the group.

     

    ENTERTAINMENT TRACK:

    Main theme from "Monday Night Football"

    Broadcaster Howard Cosell would depart the booth, retiring this month.

     

    STAFF PICKS:

    Walking on a Thin Line by Huey Lewis & the News 

    Brian starts off the staff picks with the fifth single off the album "Sports."  Despite its upbeat sound, the subject is more serious than many other Huey Lewis songs.  It tells of an American soldier trained as a sniper in the Vietnam War, and who must face his demons when he returns home.  

    Naughty Naughty by John Parr  

    Wayne features a debut single with a great synth beat.  English singer songwriter John Parr writes lyrics attempting a romantic conquest.  

    Like a Virgin by Madonna

    John brings us pop phenomenon Madonna with her first number 1 hit.  The song's co-writer Billy Steinberg drew inspiration for this song from a new romantic interest during a time when he thought he would never get over a previous relationship.  The song would become a signature song for Madonna and an iconic song of the 80's.

    Black Cars by Gino Vannelli

    Rob continues the synth heavy trend in this podcast.  The title track from the album of the same name tells of an aging woman fighting the fading of her beauty.  "Black cars look better in the shade.  She slips her lipstick on right before she sleeps for all those phantom lovers in her dreams."

     

    INSTRUMENTAL TRACK:

    Junku by Herbie Hancock

    This song was played on Saturday Night Live when Hancock was the musical guest in the month.

    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
  • 1994 - August: “The Crow: Original Motion Picture Soundtrack”

    The superhero movie “The Crow,” released in 1994, will forever be known for two events.  First, the tragic death of lead actor Brandon Lee, son of Bruce Lee, during production of the film would cast a pall over the movie from then on.  Second, the outstanding music of The Crow:  Original Motion Picture Soundtrack would result in a chart-topping album.  This soundtrack is a veritable who's who of alternative rock at the time, including artists like The Cure, Violent Femmes, Nine Inch Nails, and Stone Temple Pilots.

    The Crow is based on a comic book series of the same name, written in 1989.  The protagonist is brutally killed by a gang along with his fiancée, and is brought back to life by a crow to wreak vengeance on the murderers.

    This soundtrack would hit number 1 on the Billboard 200 charts in 1994.

    Friend of the show John Lynch leads the commentary on this album.

    Burn by The Cure

    The Cure was an inspiration for James O'Barr, the creator of the comic series, and lead man Robert Smith wrote this song specifically for the film.  Burn leads off the album.  

    Golgotha Tenement Blues by Machines of Loving Grace

    This song was also written specifically for the film.  The name of the song takes Christian imagery and reflects it on the dark mood set by the movie.  Golgotha was the place where Jesus was crucified, and Tenement reflects the ghetto where the protagonist originated.  The song appears only on the soundtrack, not on any MOLG album.

    Color Me Once by Violent Femmes

    This track would significantly enhance the popularity of the Violent Femmes.  The song depicts disappointment in relationships when hard realities dash hopes.  

    Slip Slide Melting by For Love Not Lisa

    A rocking track from an underrated group.  KISS alum Ace Frehley wrote songs and made guest appearances with For Love Not Lisa.  Slip Slide Melting appears on their first album entitled “Melting,” which was released in 1993.  They would release one other album before disbanding in 1996.

     

    ENTERTAINMENT TRACK:

    Main Theme from NFL on FOX 

    Newcomer network FOX debuts its first NFL game in August of 1994.  

     

    STAFF PICKS:

    New Age Girl by Deadeye Dick

    Wayne leads off the staff picks with a song from the soundtrack of “Dumb and Dumber.”  The song describes Mary Moon, a new age vegetarian.  It generated some controversy with its lyrics, “she don't eat meat, but she sure likes the bone.”  Some radio stations would edit out the word "bone."  

    Breathe by Collective Soul 

    Rob features a song off Collective Soul's 1993 album “Hints, Allegations, and Things Left Unsaid.”  Hailing from Stockbridge, Georgia, Collective Soul would have a number of hits beginning in the 1990s, particularly “Shine” and “The World I Know.”

    Come to My Window by Melissa Etheridge

    Brian brings us the second single from Etheridge's breakout fourth album “Yes I Am.”  The song remained in the Billboard Hot 100 for 44 weeks.  Etheridge would win a Grammy for Best Female Rock Vocal Performance.

    Don't Turn Around by Ace of Base

    John Lynch closes out the staff picks with Swedish reggae group Ace of Base, performing a remastered song originally performed by Tina Turner in 1986.  Ace of Base would take their version to number 4 on the Billboard Hot 100.

     

    INSTRUMENTAL TRACK:

    Theme from the motion picture “The Little Rascals”

    A movie version of the of the old Our Gang comedy short films from 1922 was released in this month.  

    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
  • 1968 - April: The Monkees ”The Birds, The Bees & the Monkees”

    1968 was a year of disappointments for the Monkees.  During this year their television series was cancelled, their first motion picture effort failed at the box office, and band member Peter Tork would leave the group at the end of the year.  Despite all this they would still find success in their fifth studio album, The Birds, The Bees & the Monkees.  This album would chart at number 3 in the United States and would sell over a million copies.

    Members Mickey Dolenz, Davy Jones, Michael Nesmith, and Peter Tork had gained artistic control and the right to play their own instruments by 1967, and all band members were credited as producers for the songs on this album.  However, much of the music on this album was created by members going their own separate ways and working with session musicians to create the tracks, with few collaborative efforts represented on the album.  Nevertheless, the album shows a diverse range of styles from broadway pop, to country & western, to psychedelia.  Songs from Mickey Dolenz, Davy Jones, and Michael Nesmith are represented on the album, and only Peter Tork is excluded.  Tork would contribute piano work to the song “Daydream Believer,” but little else on the album.

    Friend of the show Mike Fernandez brings us this album in Wayne's absence. 

     

    Daydream Believer

    John Stewart of the Kingston Trio wrote this song, and it was originally performed by the Monkees with Davy Jones singing lead.  It hit number 1 on the US charts.  The original lyrics were “and now you know how funky I can be,” but “funky” was changed to “happy” due to concerns that funky might have drug or other unsavory references.

    Auntie's Municipal Court 

    Mickey Dolenz sings lead on this track composed by  Michael Nesmith and Keith Allison.  We feel it has a “jangle pop country feel.”  The title doesn't appear in the lyrics, and writer Michael Nesmith has no recollection why it was named as it was.  It was not the only song whose title was not referenced in the song.  

    Valleri  

    Tommy  Boyce and Bobby Hart wrote this song with Davy Jones on lead.  It reached number 3 on the US charts and would be the last top 10 showing for the Monkees.  Guitar work is done by Louie Shelton, a session guitarist with the Wrecking Crew.

    Zor and Zam 

    Bill and John Chadwick penned this track, sung by Mickey Dolenz.  It is an unusual anti-war song in the Monkee's catalogue.  The lyrics describe preparation for a war between two kingdoms, but no one shows up when the war is supposed to happen.  This psychedelic track closes the album.

     

    ENTERTAINMENT TRACK:

    Main theme from the television series “The Andy Griffith Show”

    This long running series on the life and time of Sheriff Andy Taylor of Mayberry, North Carolina ended its run in this month. 

     

    STAFF PICKS:

    Kiss Me Goodbye by Petula Clark

    Brian's leads off the staff picks with a Les Reed and Barry Mason composition.  This song would reach number 15 on the US Billboard Hot 100, and would be the last time Petula Clark reached into the top 30 on that chart.  

    Just Dropped In (To See What Condition My Condition Was In) by The First Edition 

    Bruce brings us a psychedelic rock song recorded by the First Edition as their second single, and the first to feature Kenny Rogers on lead vocals.  It peaked at number 5 on the Billboard Charts and was Rogers' first top 10 hit.  The solo is played by Glen Campbell with heavy compression and tremolo to get the psychedelic feel.  The lyrics are a warning about the dangers of LSD.

    Lady Madonna by the Beatles 

    Rob's staff pick is a well-known tune.  This was written by Paul McCartney, and marked a change into a more rock sound from the psychedelic sound they had previously explored.  It talks about a working class mother who has something to do every day of the week.  

    A Beautiful Morning by the Rascals

    Mike features a very optimistic tune from a prolific group.  This easy breezy song was written by Rascals members Felix Cavaliere and Eddie Brigati, Jr. in Honolulu, Hawaii, where beautiful mornings are a common occurrence.

     

    INSTRUMENTAL TRACK:

    2001:  A Space Odyssey (Also Sprach Zarathustra by Ricard Strauss)

    Stanley Kubrick would make this Richard Strauss theme famous in his epic science fiction movie based on the Arthur C. Clarke book. The film as released this month in 1968....and we couldn't pronounce it either!!

    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.

    29 min
  • Christmas Songs that Rock V: A What the Riff Rabbit Hole

    We at What the Riff!?! hope that y'all have a great Christmas — we hope these songs make your season a little more merry and bright.

    “Deck the Halls” by Twisted Sister

    This classic carol was probably not originally envisioned to be quite as rocking as this, but Dee Snyder and Twisted Sister took it up a notch!  This is the sixth and last Twisted Sister studio album they would produce, and we’re sure they donned their gay apparel for this final outing.  

    “Skynyrd Family” by Lynyrd Skynyrd

    Some southern charm was put on this song that tells of Lynyrd Skynyrd finishing up their tour and headed home for Christmas.  It is off their eleventh studio album entitled “Christmas Time Again,” released in 2000.   

    “I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus” by the Jackson 5

    John Lynch brings us a classic Christmas song as performed by the Jackson 5.  Michael Jackson recorded this song on his 12th birthday in 1970.

    “2000 Miles” by  the Pretenders

    This song was on “Learning to Crawl,” the breakout studio album by the Pretenders released in 1983.  Chrissie Hynde wrote the song for James Honeyman-Scott, the group's original guitarist who had passed away the year prior to this recording.

    “Mistress for Christmas” by AC/DC

    Rob may find a lump of coal in his stocking for picking this song for the Christmas podcast!  Brian Johnson of AC/DC isn't looking for peace, love, and joy for Christmas…but for a little Christmas nookie.  We learned that this song was inspired by Donald Trump.

    “Joy to the World” by Michael Bolton

    We don't get a lot of Michael Bolton on our podcasts, and John Lynch set out to rectify that.  Bolton voices this classic Christmas hymn in his unique Yacht Rock style.

    “Boogie Woogie Santa Claus” by the Brian Seltzer Orchestra

    Brian Seltzer of Stray Cats fame put this one out there in 2002.  The Brian Seltzer Orchestra formed in 1990 as a swing and jump blues band, and put out the album “Boogie Woogie Christmas” with this and other Christmas classics.  This is a cover of the song, which was originally released by Mabel Scott in 1954.

    “(There's No Place Like) Home for the Holidays” by Perry Como

    Perry Como released this classic Christmas song in 1954.  It tells of the longing to be home at Christmas, and some of the travelers making their way home.

    “Rockin' Around the Christmas Tree” by Brenda Lee

    Johnny Marks, who wrote “Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer,” “A Holly Jolly Christmas,” and other Christmas songs wrote this one as well.  Brenda Lee recorded this in 1958 when she was 13 years old.  It is the fifth best selling Christmas single of all time according to Neilson SoundScan.  

    “Feliz Navidad”  by Jose Feliciano

    Puerto Rican musician Jose Feliciano wrote this in 1970. He recorded it in Los Angeles while feeling homesick at Christmas as his extended family was in New York.  “Feliz Navidad” means “Merry Christmas” in Spanish. 

    “It's Gonna Be a Punk Rock Christmas” by the Ravers

    Wayne brings us a bit of PUNK for the Christmas season.  The Ravers released this back in 1977.  

    “It's the Most Wonderful Time of the Year” by Andy Williams

    We decided to include more “non-rock singles” in this episode, and this classic holiday tune originated in 1963 on Williams' first Christmas album.  It tells of all the activities that surrounds the Christmas season.

    “Let it Snow! Let it Snow! Let it Snow!” by Dean Martin

    Sammy Cahn and  Jule Styne wrote this in the summer of 1945 during a heat wave in Hollywood, California.  Dean Martin released a version in 1959, and re-recorded it in 1966.

    “Blue Christmas” by Seymour Swine and the Squealers

    This novelty song was recorded in 1984 for a North Carolina radio station morning show.  Denny Brownlee is the comedian and impressionist who brought Seymour Swine to life - primarily to avoid copyright issues associated with ©Porky Pig.

    “O Come All Ye Grateful Dead Heads” by Bob Rivers

    Comedian Bob Rivers had this parody on his “Twisted Christmas” album in 1987.

    We hope y'all have a very Merry Christmas and a happy New Year!

    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.

    45 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.

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