I'm In Love With That Song Podcast

A Todd Rundgren album can vary between pure pop to bossa nova, guitar rock to wild experimentation; like the proverbial box of chocolates, you never know what you're gonna get with the next Rundgren album. Released in 1989, the Nearly Human album is Todd at his best, a pop masterpiece of well-crafted songs performed impeccably, live-in-the-studio. "Parallel Lines" is one of the strongest cuts, initially written for an off-Broadway musical based on the script for a never-produced 3rd Beatles movie. "Parallel Lines" (Todd Rundgren) Copyright 1989 Fiction Music, Inc./Todd Rundgren BMI If you enjoyed this show, please check out these related episodes: https://lovethatsongpodcast.com/utopia-the-road-to-utopia https://lovethatsongpodcast.com/todd-rundgren-cliche https://lovethatsongpodcast.com/utopia-winston-smith-takes-it-on-the-jaw https://lovethatsongpodcast.com/xtc-thats-really-super-supergirl -- This show is one of many great podcasts on the Pantheon Podcasts network. Check 'em all out! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The best British band from the '60's that never hit the bigtime in America-- Small Faces. Steve Marriott, Ronnie Lane, Kenny Jones and Ian McLagan would become rock legends due to their future projects (Humble Pie, The Who, The Faces, etc) , but it all started for them here. Small Faces recorded a number of psychedelic pop gems, but "Tin Soldier" may be the pinnacle. Shall we have a listen? Small Faces - "Tin Soldier" (Steve Marriott, Ronnie Lane) Copyright 1967 EMI United Partnership Limited -- This show is part of the Pantheon network of music-related podcasts. Check out their other shows! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Back in '77, one thing UK punk bands didn't have much use for was love songs. But Pete Shelley of the Buzzcocks wrote what could be called "modern love songs"; honest songs about longing, romance, loneliness, and yes, love -- all laced with self-deprecating humor. But their music was aggressive, all raging guitars, pounding drums & pummeling bass. With those thoughtful (dare I say, sensitive) lyrics on top, it was the best of both worlds. On this episode, we take a deep dive into the Buzzcocks classic "What Do I Get?". If you enjoyed this episode, check out The Hustle Podcast's interview with Steve Diggle. Buzzcocks - "What Do I Get?" (Pete Shelley) Copyright 1978 Complete Music Limited -- This show is one of many great music-related podcasts on the Pantheon network. You should check them out! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

"War" was originally written for The Temptations, but when Motown was too squeamish to have one of their top acts release an overtly anti-Vietnam song, Edwin Starr stepped up and secured his place in history. His no-holds-barred delivery of "War" resulted in one of the most commercially successful protest songs ever recorded. Though Edwin Starr never reached these heights again, he left his mark with a song that transcended its Vietnam-era roots: It was one of the songs on Clear Channel's no-play list after September 11, 2001. "War" (Norman Whitfield & Barrett Strong) Copyright 1970 Jobette Music Co, Inc. If you enjoyed this show, please check out these related episodes: https://lovethatsongpodcast.com/the-temptations-i-cant-get-next-to-you https://lovethatsongpodcast.com/stevie-wonder-i-wish -- This show is just one of many great music-related podcasts on the Pantheon network. Check them all out! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It Came From Boston (Vol. 2): Local boy from Wellesley, MA pays his dues in & around Boston and New York; eventually becomes a solo artist and strikes gold on his 2nd solo album, Don't Say No. "Lonely Is The Night" was the 2nd single and my favorite track from the album, so let's have a listen to this classic song from the early '80's. "Lonely Is The Night" (Billy Squier) Copyright 1981 Songs Of The Knight -- This show is part of the Pantheon network of music-related podcasts. Check out their other shows! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

For the 50th episode of the podcast, we're mixing it up a bit. I just finished reading a fascinating book by Andrew Grant Jackson where he lays out his belief that 1965 was "The Most Revolutionary Year In Music". Let's have a listen to some of the sounds of '65 and see if we agree. The Beatles, the Stones, the Byrds, James Brown, Marvin Gaye, Motown... it's all there. You can find a copy of his book here: https://www.amazon.com/1965-Most-Revolutionary-Year-Music/dp/1250059623 (and no, I don't get any $$ for recommending it-- I just like the book!) -- This show is just one of many great music-related podcasts on the Pantheon network. Check them all out! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A Robyn Hitchcock song is so unique, it could only come from the mind of Robyn Hitchcock. From his first recordings with The Soft Boys in the '70's through to his solo work today, Robyn is a singular artist with a vision all his own. This is a track from my favorite Hitchcock album, Element Of Light. "Airscape" (Robyn Hitchcock) Copyright 1986 August 23rd/Bug Music As mentioned during the podcast - the Glass Harmonica: https://youtu.be/eEKlRUvk9zc https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Glass_harmonica -- This show is just one of many great music-related podcasts on the Pantheon network. Check them all out! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Wealth and excess go together; emptiness and detachment are right around the corner. This song delves into all of that, along with a particular obsession. What do you do when money no longer buys you a thrill? Bryan Ferry has some thoughts... NOTE: Though there's no profanity used in this episode, the discussion does involve sexual activities so be warned... you might wanna listen to this one on headphones. "In Every Dream Home A Heartache" (Bryan Ferry) Copyright 1973 Careers-BMG Music Publishing (BMI) This podcast makes multiple references to Marie-Hélène de Rothschild's "Surrealist Ball". More details on the infamous event here, if you're interested: https://dangerousminds.net/comments/glimpses_of_the_extravagant_surrealist_ball_of_1972 https://therake.com/stories/icons/party-animals-the-rothschild-surrealist-ball/ The song as used in the opening scene of "Mindhunter" Season 2, Episode 1 on Netflix: https://youtu.be/9wqICwjCYGQ -- This show is just one of many great music-related podcasts on the Pantheon network. Check them all out! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

To say Rush has a devoted fan base would be an understatement. I know, because I was a card-carrying member of the "Rush Backstage Fan Club" back in the '80's. Perhaps no Rush song connected so directly with their fans as "Subdivisions". On this episode, we celebrate Neil Peart with a deeper look at this fan favorite. "Subdivisions" (Music by Geddy Lee & Alex Lifeson, Words by Neil Peart) Copyright 1982 Core Music Publishing If you enjoyed this show, please check out this episode: http://lovethatsongpodcast.com/yes-owner-of-a-lonely-heart This show is part of the Pantheon Podcast network. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode, we revisit the great '70's hard rock/power pop album Attention Shoppers! by Starz. "X-Ray Spex" is a blast of punky pop with some interesting use of studio effects. Turn it up! "X-Ray Spex" (Peter Sweval, Joe X. Dube, Michael Lee Smith, Brendan Harkin & Richie Ranno) Copyright 1978 Starzongo Music, Inc/Rock Steady Music, Inc/ASCAP Related Episodes: https://lovethatsongpodcast.com/starz-she -- This show is part of the Pantheon network of music-related podcasts. Check out their other shows! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this special Bonus podcast, it's time for another holiday pick. Here's an ol' Christmas classic with a power pop twist: "We Three Kings" by Odds. Happy Holidays, everyone! "Kings Of Orient (We Three Kings)" (Traditional) Odds, 1991 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Michael Carpenter is a multi-instrumentalist, songwriter, producer & engineer from Australia who, in a better world, would be a lot more famous. A master of hooks & harmony, he's one of the best modern power pop artists out there. Here's a track that's a personal favorite of mine. Check it out & then go buy some of his music. "Kailee Anne" (Michael Carpenter) Copyright 2000 Michael Carpenter; Copyright 2000 Not Lame Recording Company Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It Came From Boston: 5 experienced musicians come together to make something new: keyboard whiz Greg Hawkes; the bassist with the killer voice, Benjamin Orr; drummer David Robinson from the legendary Modern Lovers; one of the tastiest guitarists in the business, Elliot Easton; and singer/songwiriter/guitarist & mastermind Ric Ocasek. Merging classic guitar rock with the burgeoning synth-pop sounds to bring New Wave to the masses, The Cars defined that sound for the late-70's/Early '80's. It all started on local Boston radio with this song. "Just What I Needed" (Ric Ocasek) Copyright 1978 Lido Music, Inc. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

There's no shortage of great songs in the Rolling Stones catalog, but "Gimme Shelter" may be the song that tops them all. Dark and foreboding as only the Stones can do, this track has all the hallmarks of the Rolling Stones at their best: iconic guitar riffs by Keef, Jagger at the top of his game, and the Watts/Wyman rhythm section doing what they do best (plus Nicky Hopkins on piano). But what pushes this one from merely brilliant into sublime is the vocal performance by Merry Clayton-- for my money, one of the greatest moments on record. All together, this one belongs on the Mount Rushmore of Rock. "Gimme Shelter" (Mick Jagger & Keith Richards) Copyright 1969 ABKCO Music Inc. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

"Rain" was the first glimpse of The Beatles exploration of psychedelia. Perhaps more than any other Beatles track, this song highlights the rhythm section with brilliant performances by Ringo Starr and Paul McCartney. Add Lennon's lyrics and great vocals, and you've got one of the best songs to come out of the trippy, mind-expanding '60's. On this episode, we take a closer look at the individual performances and studio trickery-- backwards, forwards, sped up & slowed down-- that went into this classic track. "Rain" (John Lennon/Paul McCartney) Copyright 1966 Northern Songs If you like this episode, check out: https://lovethatsongpodcast.com/paul-mccartney-wings-daytime-nighttime-suffering https://lovethatsongpodcast.com/paul-mccartney-wings-little-lamb-dragonfly Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Temptations' first #1 Hit on the Billboard "Hot 100" chart was "My Girl" in 1965. 4 years later, they had their 2nd #1 with "I Can't Get Next To You", and the difference between these 2 songs tells you a lot about the 1960's. "I Can't Get Next To You" features a different lead vocalist, a more aggressive, funky beat and a trippy vibe courtesy of producer & songwriter Norman Whitfield. The early Temptations songs are great, but for my money, they were never better than when they teamed up with Whitfield and created "psychedelic soul". Let's listen to each piece of the puzzle that created this masterpiece. "I Can't Get Next To You" (Barret Strong & Norman Whitfield) Copyright 1969 Jobette Music Co., Inc. All rights controlled and administered by EMI Blackwood Music Inc. on behalf of Stone Agate Music (A division of Jobette Music Co., Inc.) If you enjoyed this show, please check out these related episodes: https://lovethatsongpodcast.com/wilson-pickett-ninety-nine-and-a-half-wont-do https://lovethatsongpodcast.com/aretha-franklin-a-change-is-gonna-come https://lovethatsongpodcast.com/edwin-starr-war https://lovethatsongpodcast.com/earth-wind-fire-shining-star https://lovethatsongpodcast.com/stevie-wonder-i-wish Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If you know Richard Lloyd at all, it's either as a member of Television (the first band to play CBGB's) or as the guitarist on many of Matthew Sweet's best tracks. But Richard released some great solo work in between those gigs, including an album called Field Of Fire. Overlooked & forgotten, this is one of the best records of the 1980's (in my opinion, of course). The title song features some of his best ever guitar work. On this episode, we're listening to a great rockin' track called "Backtrack" that's as close to "classic rock" as Richard Lloyd will ever get-- and I mean that in the best possible way. Keith Richards would be proud of this guitar riff. "Backtrack" (Richard Lloyd) Copyright 1985 Richard Lloyd (ASCAP) Anapestic Music/Basement Music LTD. (PRS) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Kinks earned their place in Rock History on the basis of "You Really Got Me", "All Day & All Of The Night", and "Where Have All The Good Times Gone" alone. But it didn't take long for Ray Davies to stretch out beyond riff-driven, teenage anthems to write songs that could only have come from his imagination. "Autumn Almanac" is one of the first Kinks songs to show Davies reaching for a whole new level of songwriting-- both musically and his interest in writing about characters, which would become the focus of his songwriting over the ensuing years. "Autumn Almanac" (Ray Davies) Copyright 1967 Davray Music Ltd. Carlin Music Corp. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Stevie Wonder was on an unrivaled creative streak starting in 1972, releasing 5 brilliant albums in a row, culminating with Songs In The Key Of Life in 1976. That album spawned 2 hit singles, including "I Wish", the subject of this episode. A masterpiece blending funk with pop sensibilities, it's a celebration of youthful innocence and simpler times. How does this song make *you* feel? Let me know on Facebook, write a review on iTunes or wherever you listen to this show. And share it with your friends! "I Wish" (Stevie Wonder) Copyright 1976 Jobette Music Co. Inc, and Black Bull Music c/o EMI April Music Inc. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

After a few longer-than-usual episodes, I thought it was time for a quick take on a straight-forward rocker with a premise not often heard in rock, pop, metal or rap -- Graham Day & The Gaolers (pronounced "Jailers") with "Glad I'm Not Young". "Glad I'm Not Young" (Graham Day) Copyright 2008 Graham Day (MCPS) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Few bands have changed their sound as drastically as Yes did on their 90125 album, a radical departure from their previous progressive rock style. But it ended up giving them their one & only #1 hit, "Owner Of A Lonely Heart". In this episode, we follow the song's evolution from Trevor Rabin's solo demo to the final production, including its innovative production techniques (such as being one of the first rock songs to use samples). This was the most challenging episode I've done yet, but I think it was worth it. If you enjoyed it, share it with your friends! "Owner Of A Lonely Heart" (Trevor Rabin, Jon Anderson, Trevor Horn & Chris Squire) Copyright 1983 Carlin Music Corp, Unforgettable Songs And Affirmative Music — This show is one of the many great podcasts on the Pantheon Podcasts network. Check ’em all out! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

50 years ago today -- July 16, 1969 -- Apollo 11 was launched and human beings first stepped on the moon. Let's celebrate that occasion with the most famous song about space travel: David Bowie's "Space Oddity", a song that exploits our fear and wonder of the final frontier. In lesser hands, this track could've been nothing more than a goofy, one-joke song for the Dr. Demento crowd, but the clever songwriting, brilliant production and a vocal performance that captures Bowie's innate other-worldly, alienated style makes this track so much more than a novelty song. "Space Oddity" (David Bowie) Copyright 1969 Onward Music Limited If you enjoyed this episode, check out these: https://lovethatsongpodcast.com/david-bowie-station-to-station https://lovethatsongpodcast.com/david-bowie-time Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Among the many high points in David Bowie's catalog, "Station To Station" stands as one of his most epic compositions. Written when Bowie's life was at its most fractured point-- having split with his longtime manager, suffering from cocaine psychosis and obsessed with the occult, "Station To Station" transcends the insanity to become one of his most monumental works. This episode, we're taking a deep dive into the live version of "Station To Station" from the 1978 Isolar II Tour, as captured on the Stage live album featuring brilliant guitar work from Adrian Belew. "Station To Station" (David Bowie) Copyright 1976 EMI Publishing Ltd., Tintoretto Music and Moth Music Related episodes: https://lovethatsongpodcast.com/david-bowie-time Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Aqualung was the album that made Jethro Tull famous, and features 3 songs that became classic hits. But the song at the heart of the album is "My God", Ian Anderson's very personal statement on religious institutions. It's the most instrumentally adventurous track on the album and features great guitar by Martin Barre and a flute workout from Anderson. "My God" (Ian Anderson) Copyright 1971 Chrysalis Music, Ltd. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

70 years ago this month, George Orwell's "1984" was first published. So let's give George an ol' Rock & Roll salute by looking at one of the many songs inspired by his book. Sure, I could've done David Bowie's "1984", but that would be too easy. I'm a big Utopia fan, so this is a good excuse to take a look at another one of their tracks. It's Utopia in dystopia! For more 1984-inspired songs, check out Eurythmics “Ministry of Love”, Radiohead's “2+2=5”, or "Standards" by The Jam, just to name a few. "Winston Smith Takes It On The Jaw" (Utopia) Copyright 1983 Unearthly Music/Fiction Music (BMI) Terrestrial Music/Fourth Floor Music (ASCAP) If you enjoyed this show, please check out these related episodes: https://lovethatsongpodcast.com/utopia-the-road-to-utopia https://lovethatsongpodcast.com/todd-rundgren-cliche https://lovethatsongpodcast.com/todd-rundgren-parallel-lines https://lovethatsongpodcast.com/xtc-thats-really-super-supergirl Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

When Brian Wilson heard The Beatles Rubber Soul album, it inspired and challenged him to create an album of his own that would stand as an equal. And he pulled it off. Universally considered one of the greatest albums of all time, Pet Sounds is a testament to Brian's genius as a songwriter, arranger & producer. The album includes some all-time classics like "God Only Knows" and "Wouldn't it Be Nice", but on this episode, I'd like to focus on one of my favorites on the record-- "You Still Believe in Me". Like most of the songs on Pet Sounds, this is a very personal song, a confession of a young man who knows he's failing as a husband, but can't help himself. Brian's vocal is pure, honest, and perfect. And when those harmonies come in... I melt. Let's listen together. "You Still Believe In Me" (Brian Wilson & Tony Asher) Copyright 1966 Sea Of Tunes Publishing Company/Irving Music Incorporates, USA, Rondor Music International Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Another overlooked gem in the McCartney catalog, "Little Lamb Dragonfly" is an emotional piece, composed of 3 sections in different keys that effortlessly moves between each segment. A wistful, haunting song about loss and the struggle to accept it. How does this song affect you? Let me know-- write a review, post on Facebook, and share this episode with your friends. "Little Lamb Dragonfly" (Paul & Linda McCartney) Copyright 1973 Administered by MPL Communications Limited If you liked this episode, please check out: https://lovethatsongpodcast.com/paul-mccartney-wings-daytime-nighttime-suffering Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode, we revisit the Destroyer album and take a look at the song "King Of The Night Time World" to see how it evolved from an obscure track by a short-lived LA band into a teenage anthem by larger-than-life rock legends. We'll listen to both versions and hear what changed & what remained. Come live your secret dream! "King Of The Nighttime World" (Kim Fowley/Mark Anthony/Paul Stanley/Bob Ezrin) Copyright 1976 Cafe Americana, Inc/Kiss Songs, Inc (ASCAP)/Bad Boy Music/Eighth Power Music/All By Myself Publishing Co Ltd. (BMI) If you liked this episode, check out: https://lovethatsongpodcast.com/kiss-flaming-youth Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Zombies only released 2 albums during their prime, so how did they get into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame? Because one of those albums is a bona fide classic: Odessey and Oracle is widely considered to be one of the greatest albums of the '60's, holding its own against classics by The Beatles, the Stones, Velvet Underground, The Who... by virtually any measure, it's an iconic album. And it was a complete flop when it was first released, along with its first single, "Care Of Cell 44". But over time, it's been recognized as a true masterpiece. Let's give The Zombies their due and take a deep dive into their orchestral pop magnum opus, "Care Of Cell 44." Here's a link to the article I mention in the podcast: https://www.buzzfeed.com/danielralston/the-true-story-of-the-fake-zombies-the-strangest-con-in-rock It's definitely worth checking out! The Zombies - "Care Of Cell 44" (Rod Argent) Copyright 1967 Verulam Music Copmany Limited Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to the 25th episode of the "I'm In Love With That Song" Podcast! I thought we'd do something a little different for this episode: I've picked a handful of my favorite guitar solos and we'll take a listen to what I think makes a solo great. In my book, it doesn't have to be flashy or technically brilliant (not that there's anything wrong with that), but it does have to be memorable, it has to fit the song, and it should take the song to another level. I'm not saying these are the greatest solos of all time, they're just a few that I think are pretty special. So turn it up to 11 and put your guitar face on! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Why this song? Simple: because Thin Lizzy was as good as a 4-piece rock band could be and this song has everything you want in a rockin' song-- a killer guitar riff, a singable chorus, a great hook for the lyrics, and a perfect performance. Written by Bob Seger, Thin Lizzy took it to another level and added some of their special sauce to make this song their own. I truly love this song! Let me know your thoughts -- write a review, leave a comment, share with your friends. "Rosalie" (Bob Seger) Copyright 1972 Gear Publishing Co. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This is the episode where I try to explain why I think Todd Rundgren's "Cliché" is the most beautiful song ever written. Of course it's all subjective, but I don't know how anyone could deny the beauty and emotional resonance of this song. I probably can't do it justice, but here's my attempt anyway. "Cliché" (Todd Rundgren) Copyright 1976 Warner Publishing Corp. If you enjoyed this show, please check out these related episodes: https://lovethatsongpodcast.com/utopia-the-road-to-utopia https://lovethatsongpodcast.com/todd-rundgren-parallel-lines https://lovethatsongpodcast.com/xtc-thats-really-super-supergirl http://lovethatsongpodcast.com/utopia-winston-smith-takes-it-on-the-jaw Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

By the time Aerosmith recorded their 2nd album, they had refined their sound, improved their songwriting chops, and Steven Tyler had found his authentic voice. "Seasons Of Wither" is one of the moodiest tracks Aerosmith ever committed to vinyl. Still sounds every bit as great today. "Seasons Of Wither" (Steven Tyler) Copyright 1977 Music Of Stage Three and Song & Dance Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Do we expect too much from music? A great song can do a lot, but it can't fix everything. This song is 2 minutes of joy... sometimes, that's enough. "Me & You & Jackie Mittoo" (James August Wilbur, Jonathan Patrick Wurster, Laura Jane Ballance, Ralph Lee Mccaughan) Copyright 2013 All The Songs Sound The Same Music Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to 2019! Let's start the year off with one of the Greatest Rock Bands Of All Time. There is simply no other band like The Who. Genius and violence, vulnerability and madness... all words that can be used in equal measure to describe The Who. Four larger-than-life characters that created a dozen indelible classic albums; a band that recorded so much great music that a song like this was tossed aside, eventually released on a ramshackle album of leftovers & outtakes. Most bands would give an arm & a leg for a song this good. "The Naked Eye" (Peter Townshend) Copyright 1974 Fabulous Music Ltd/Towser Tunes Inc. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

His career spanned over 60 years; he toured around the world (playing 200 shows a year, well into his 70's), and released more than 50 albums. But B.B. King will be remembered primarily as one of the most influential guitarists in history. His impact is so embedded in the DNA of the guitar that no player is untouched by his influence. This is one of many great songs in his vast catalog; a great example of his powerful voice, his ability to embody a song, and his mastery as a guitar soloist. "There Must Be A Better World Somewhere" (Doc Pomus & Dr. John) Copyright 1981 Daremolby Music/Stazybo Music, Inc. (BMI) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Graham Parker arose from the UK Pub Rock scene, a back-to-basics sound that was a precursor to Punk. Along with his band, The Rumour (which included guitarist Brinsley Schwarz, a legend in his own right), he recorded a handful of essential albums in the '70's and has released a string of great records throughout his long career. A notable songwriter with a distinct edge and a wonderfully biting voice, he's influenced many artists that followed. Here's one song that represents everything I love about Graham Parker. "Stupefaction" (Graham Parker) Copyright 1980 Street Music Ltd Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

When the band released their first 2 albums in 1968 & 1969, they set off a musical revolution; the psychedelic sounds of the '60's were out and a return to the roots was back in style. "Whispering Pines" is their most haunting, beautiful ballad, with a lead vocal from Richard Manuel that's so vulnerable it makes you ache to hear it. The Band were at their peak during this time, with every member writing & performing at their best. Let me know what you think -- write a review, leave a comment, and share with your friends! "Whispering Pines" (R. Manuel and J.R. Robertson) Copyright 1970 Canaan Music, Inc. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

I will admit that I can be prone to hyperbole, but I'm convinced this is The Best Album Of The 1980's and one of the greatest albums of all time. It is a perfect album. A magnificent song cycle that reveals something new each time you listen to it. A masterwork of songwriting and production. I could go on... This song is a blast of pure pop; catchy, clever and concise-- 3 minutes and 20 seconds of pop genius. It will make you smile. NOTE: During the podcast, I reference "The Fool Guitar". More details on that legendary instrument can be found here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Fool_(guitar) "That's Really Super, Supergirl" (Andy Partridge) Copyright 1986 Virgin Nymph Music, Inc (BMI) - Copyright 2010 Ape House Ltd If you enjoyed this show, please check out these related episodes: https://lovethatsongpodcast.com/todd-rundgren-cliche https://lovethatsongpodcast.com/todd-rundgren-parallel-lines http://lovethatsongpodcast.com/utopia-winston-smith-takes-it-on-the-jaw Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Forget talking about "women who rock", Sass Jordan is one of the best rock vocalists out there, male OR female. This Canadian singer & songwriter is not well known in the USA, which is a shame because she's got a voice that's unique, powerful and compelling. This song is from her 1994 album, "Rats", which is her hardest-rocking album (and, in my opinion, her best). Check out this song, then go find more music by Sass Jordan. And don't forget to share & leave comments! "Head" (Sass Jordan & Stevie Salas) Copyright 1994 WB Music Corp/Cat Sass Music/Green Lantern Music (ASCAP)/Songs Of Polygram International Inc. and Salidified Songs (BMI) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

One of the most underappreciated bands in rock. Undaunted by the ups & downs of the fickle music business, Cheap Trick have played over 5000 shows and released 20 albums, including "Rockford" in 2006, one of their best albums ever. I could've picked any song from this album-- it's that good-- but I settled on "If It Takes A Lifetime". If you don't have this album in your collection, don't wait-- Go get it now. "If It Takes A Lifetime" (Robin Zander, Tom Petersson, Rick Neilsen, Bun E. Carlos & Julian Raymond) Copyright Z.P.N.&C./Sony/ATV (BMI) and Maxiva (ASCAP) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A great hard rock & power pop band that somehow fell through the cracks in the late '70's, Starz had all the ingredients to make it big-- a band of seasoned professionals with a charismatic frontman, a big-name manager, and a record deal with Capitol Records... but while bands like Foreigner, Styx & Boston sold millions of records, Starz just couldn't break thru to a larger audience. Too bad, because these guys had some great rock tunes. Here's one of their power-pop tracks that serves as a great example of how to write a catchy, memorable song. Special thanks to the RockNPd Expo for connecting me with the guys in the band. "She" (Peter Sweval, Joe X. Dube, Michael Lee Smith, Brendan Harkin & Richie Ranno) Copyright 1978 Starzongo Music, Inc/Rock Steady Music, Inc/ASCAP Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Aretha Franklin recorded over 40 albums during her career; this episode, we revisit a song from her breakthrough album, "I Never Loved a Man the Way I Love You" from 1967. This was actually her 11th album (!), but it was the first one recorded for Atlantic Records and it's the one that made her a legend. Aretha Franklin was probably the single most influential singer of our time-- just listen to any episode of American Idol for proof. Aretha was not only a great vocalist, she was one of the greatest interpreters of songs in history. She didn't just cover a song, she made it her own. "A Change Is Gonna Come" was Sam Cooke's finest moment, but Aretha strips it down to its purest form and imbues it with pain, world-weariness, and hope - one of the greatest emotionally cathartic moments on record. "A Change Is Gonna Come" (Sam Cooke) Copyright Kags, BMI Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Who's the greatest singer in rock history? You could make an argument that it's Glenn Hughes. He's played & recorded with Trapeze, Deep Purple, Black Sabbath, Gary Moore, KLF... and released a collection of great solo albums. He's an amazing hard rock vocalist & bass player, but my favorite stuff is when he's getting funky-- real funky. This track combines the funk with the hard rock - the best combo since Reese's put peanut butter in their chocolate. Crank It Up! "Crave" (Glenn Hughes) Copyright 2008 Ponce Songs (BMI) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Every artist wants to pay tribute to the people who inspired them. No one's ever done it better than The Replacements' tribute to Alex Chilton. This song has a great hook and a chorus that stays with you... It's stayed with me so long that I named this podcast after it. "Alex Chilton" (Paul Westerberg, Tommy Stinson & Chris Mars) Copyright 1987 Done To Death Music (ASCAP), Nah Music (ASCAP) and Chris Mars Publishing Inc. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Living under The Beatles' shadow was a blessing and a curse for Badfinger. One of the greatest Power Pop bands of all time, they crafted a catalog of great songs that defined the genre. "Day After Day" is one of the greatest singles of all time, featuring a beautiful melody, great performances, and a guest appearance by a Beatle. What more could you want? This song deserves a place in history. "Day After Day" (Pete Ham) Copyright 1971 Kobalt Music Publishing Ltd. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Adrian Belew is best known as a brilliant sideman & guitar foil (Frank Zappa, David Bowie, Talking Heads) and a member of King Crimson, but most people are unaware of his "band on the side", The Bears. The other 3 members are no slouches either-- this was really a band of 4 equal members that could all write great songs. The Bears blend Art-Rock and Power Pop in their own distinctive way. This song features lead vocals by 3 members, and packs plenty of substance & meaning into a 4:53 pop song. If you're unfamiliar with The Bears, this song provides a great entry point. "As You Are" (The Bears) Copyright 2001 Car Caught Fire Music/ASCAP Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

When a great soul singer meets a song by one of the great pop songwriting teams, magic ensues. Al Green takes a song by the Bee Gees and turns it into one of the classic singles of all time. Let's nurse our broken hearts together as we dig into this amazing song. Please take a minute to share this podcast, and thanks for spreading the word! "How Can You Mend A Broken Heart" (Barry Gibb & Robin Gibb) Copyright 1971 Gibb Brothers Music Use discount code "lovethatsong" to save 15% on all kinds of cool music merch at OldGlory.com If you enjoyed this show, please check out these related episodes: https://lovethatsongpodcast.com/stevie-wonder-i-wish https://lovethatsongpodcast.com/the-temptations-i-cant-get-next-to-you https://lovethatsongpodcast.com/wilson-pickett-ninety-nine-and-a-half-wont-do https://lovethatsongpodcast.com/edwin-starr-war https://lovethatsongpodcast.com/aretha-franklin-a-change-is-gonna-come Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Writing a hit song about writing a hit song? Genius! This song has everything a great pop-rock song needs-- a memorable melody, great chorus, smart lyrics and killer vocals. This song always makes me smile. Don't forget to share & leave comments! "Overnight Sensation (Hit Record)" (Eric Carmen) Copyright 1974 C.A.M. USA Inc. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Kiss was the band that turned a generation of kids -- including me -- into rock & roll obsessives. Love 'em or hate 'em, Kiss became huge stars after the release of the "Destroyer" album in 1976. This is one of my favorite songs on the album, and features some off-the-wall moments like circus instruments, odd time signatures and a mysterious guitar solo. Your uniform is leather, your power is your age-- set the world on fire, baby! "Flaming Youth" (Ace Frehley/Paul Stanley/Gene Simmons/Bob Ezrin) Copyright 1976 Cafe Americana, Inc/Kiss Songs, Inc (ASCAP)/All By Myself Publishing Co Ltd. (BMI) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices