Professor of Rock

In 1984 a fledgling band called Split ENZ that included two brothers Tim and Neil Finn broke up, coming up short of the path to success they set. just a year later Neil Finn formed a new band. Their self titled debut album, though promising was a slow starter as their first three singles failed to chart, it was the forth song “Don’t Dream It’s Over"that raised a ruckus and saved the album form obscurity, a song that many legendary musicians have said they wish they’d written. One of the most enduring songs of the 80s that went to #1 In Canada and New Zealand and barely missed #1 here in the states with a #2 showing but it’s legacy has lived long past many songs that did go to #1. Up next the singer and songwriter tells the compelling story of this all time hit. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The amazing story behind Def Leppard and their breakthrough hit Photograph from their 1983 smash 10 million selling album Pyromania. Joe Elliott and company had to recruit a new guitarist when their current player was coming to recordings intoxicated. They tapped Phil Collen and he ended up saving the album with killer solos. Super producer Mutt Lange set the band straight and they had their first smash hit… Was the song about a Hollywood starlet? Joe Elliott has told several different stories… Find out which one’s true next. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Next one of the Gen X's greatest guitar heroes, Steve Stevens breaks down a bonafide 80s classic. Rebel Yell by Billy Idol. First of all the song title came from a night of partying with the Rolling Stones… Then when they tried to record it, their drummer wasn’t hacking it… Low and behold they could hear a rival band recording next door with a killer drummer so they recruited him for the session and he ended up joining the band. then the guitarist created the song’s signature sound from a toy robot.. It’s a great story behind a classic straight from the man… next on professor of rock. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

We just lost a soft rock icon. Jim Seals was half of one of the most successful duos of the 70s- Seal and Crofts and the author of an enrapturing Yacht Rock classic Summer Breeze We blow through the jasmine, and pay tribute to a revered soft rock legend with the story behind the classic 70s hit Summer Breeze and reflect on it’s power to take us back home again next on Professor of Rock. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Coming up, we’re going to go behind the Top 10 songs of this very same week from the year 1982. You know we’ve done a lot of these Redux episodes on this channel, but I gotta say, today’s show might have all them beat. It’s absolutely stacked with great songs. When comparing it today’s top hits you almost want to cry.. How far we’ve fallen IT’s really sad. The 80s Ruled...this time around there are some serious countdown contenders... Including what may be the heaviest hitting movie theme song of all time Eye of the Tiger by Survivor. Then Asia with the Heat of the Moment , some of New Wave’s finest British Invaders like Soft Cell with Tainted Love and The Human League with Don’t You Want Me and some surprise underdogs... and it’s going to be a real fight to the finish to see who comes out on top... NEXT on the Professor of Rock. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Brian Wilson and the Beach Boys was America's Original Rock band and we celebrate their 60 the anniversary as we UNBOX the Beach Boys Sound of Summer 6 LP set and have an exclusive interview with some of the members of the original band, including Brian Wilson, Mike Love and Al Jardine. Brian and the boys created Pet Sound and Good Vibrations only 5 months part as just 24 years of age. The album and song blew everyone away, especially the Beatles. We celebrate that legacy next on Professor Of Rock. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Up next the story of One of the strangest, most compelling songs in the history of the 20th century. It’s the kind of 80s New Wave hit that makes you rethink the meaning of life. Once In a Lifetime by Talking Heads. David Byrne, Jerry Harrison, Tina Weymouth and Chris Franz were the quirky avant guard master of a whole new musical level as they made us look beyond the social construct. Jerry Harrison tells the story of this amazing song. that had an equally fascinating music video . Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

'It began as an innocent remark precipitated from a lover’s quarrel, that progressed into an anthem for freedom. The legacy of Free Bird by Lynyrd Skynyrd the 70s classic, the greatness of the creation from Ronnie Van Zant, Allen Collins, Al Cooper'It began as an innocent remark that came from a lover’s quarrel, it turned into a legendary song that has likely been requested at every Live Rock show ever since. At first the singer didn’t think it was anything special, then one night he laid on his back in the the corner of the studio and wrote it in a few minutes. At on point it was 17 minutes long. Once recorded the label hated it. They tried to stop it form being put on the album.Eventually this classic rock standard progressed into an anthem for freedom. coming up, The legacy of one of the signature songs by a blessed... and a cursed Hall of Fame band from Florida…. NEXT on Professor of Rock.' Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Thanks to Bespoke Post for sponsoring this video! Head to https://bespokepost.com/rock20 and use code ROCK20 to learn more and get 20% off your first box Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

It was a dark, dark time back in the summer of 1989. Or at least it was for today’s featured artist. After conquering the 80s with his own unique brand of musical genius Weird Al Yankovic found that critics and audiences had turned against him. After his should’ve been a hit movie UHF bombed. From there things got even worse when his longtime A-list partner Michael Jackson Rejected his latest song parody. Al wondered if he Was he doomed to be a relic of the 80s? Or could he write a comeback hit for the ages? Enter Kurt Cobain and Nirvana. He recorded a send up of Smells Like Teen Spirit… He did it with a mouthful or marbles…It saved his career… The story is next on Professor or Rock. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Up next we celebrate Benny Mardones who passed away 2 years ago. Considered by the industry to be a one hit wonder. His one hit, called Into the Night was much more than that simple label.. It has charted 3 different times over the last 40 years including hitting the billboard hot top 20 twice in the 80s at the beginning and end of the decade. It’s one of the most misunderstood song of the rock era, and isn’t about what you think it’s about! It’s singer and writer was a special soul, who battled his demons and won, inspiring so many along the way. I was able to interview him before he passed and it’s definitely one of my most cherished sit down ever. Coming up on professor of rock. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

38 Special’s 80s Classic Rock Hit Hold On Loosely came from a great story: it’s one of the most recognizable riffs in music history with a memorable chorus that’s tattooed on your brain at first listen. The catchy title came from a line that singer Don Barnes had heard on on old time talk show, the guitarist, Jeff Carlisi said the riff he was going for was the Cars meets Lynyrd Skynard and they finished it with a Jim Peterik from a rival band Survivor who’s who band mates were upset with him for writing a hit for someone else. This one has all the drama of great rock and Roll story with interviews with the singer and rival band member. the story is coming up next on professor of rock. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Despite massive success in her native United Kingdom, and other parts of Europe, Alison Moyet is far from a household name in America. She’s had 9 Top-30 singles, and 5 Top-5 solo hits in the UK, not to mention the multitude of fans that adored her as one of the first New Wave dance divas as the lead singer of Yazoo, or Yaz as they were known in america, with synthesizer virtuoso Vince Clarke- of Erasure and ex-Depeche Mode fame. She should be huge because here songs both solo and with Yazoo are 80s classics especially Don’t Go, Only You, Invisible and Situation. Today we celebrate her 5 best songs on professor of rock . Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In 1980, AC DC lead singer Bon Scott died under tragic and mysterious circumstances... missing his band’s big break Back in Black by a matter of months. His replacement, another iconic rocker, named Brian Johnson was selected by guitarists and brothers Angus and Malcolm Young… They all picked up the pieces and penned the biggest rock album of all time. Yet questions linger about how much of the album They actually wrote. Following the trail of a supposed 40-year cover-up, today we examine the testimonies of bandmates, girlfriends, and confidants... to uncover the authorship of the superior rocker You Shook Me All Night… from the 80s masterpiece. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The coveted #1 HIT! It’s the top of the summit that every artist desires, whether they admit it or not. I”m not saying they are all writing for #1 But every artist I've interviewed who’s topped the charts is proud of the achievement... and of course the record labels lived for this. But what about the bridesmaids? The rung just below. The close but no cigar #2? Today I’m counting down the 10 greatest #2 hits from my favorite decade… The 80s! With artist commentary including Def Leppard, Air Supply, Crowded House and a host of great #2 hits by the Cure, Tears for Fears, Foreigner, Bruce Springsteen, Prince and Journey … NEXT on the Professor of Rock. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Gun N’ Roses had just come off a massive album that shook the world called Appetite for Destruction with a batch of controversial heavy rock songs that had parents and teachers in an uproar and teenagers hanging on their every word. Every one was fired up about their upcoming material. .. Surprisingly, it ended up being a sensitive, kind-hearted song about being tolerant and understanding… What? It was a song that traded in face melting riffs for soft and affectionate acoustic sentiment called Patience… It became a huge hit even though the lead singer hated his vocal on it, and everyone’s still trying to figure out who it’s really about. Up next Axl Rose, Izzy Stradlin, Duff Mckagen and the great Slash on the song that got me grounded and punched in the stomach... Find out next on professor of rock brought to you by Zenni Eyewear. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Today we celebrate Elton John's "Madman Across The Water" 50th Anniversary Reissue, the brilliant rock n’ roll psychosis of a slow-rising classic…It took people a little bit to realize that this 70s album was a master work but Elton John and Bernie Taupin knew they had a batch of stellar songs and 50 years later it’s still a mystery... l "When it was released in 1971...Many thought the name of the LP referred to Richard Nixon…Some thought it was Adolf Hitler... But, has the real subject of Bernie Taupin’s title ever been revealed? with classic songs like Levon and Tiny Dancer we find out NEXT on Professor of Rock. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

When music critics found out former Beatle Paul McCartney was writing a movie theme back in the 70s, the reactions were definitely mixed. Yeah, some were positive. But others? They had no faith in the music. In fact one of the producers was ready to pass on what would become a game changer for a lounge act…Paul McCartney and Wings reinvigorated one of the most popular film franchises in history. And then Guns N’ Roses cover made it Sir Paul’s most popular composition collectively with a stellar cover. Up next he struggle to get this song in James Bond’s movie of the same name and how McCartney had the last laugh. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

As many of you no doubt already know, we recently lost another musical legend. On May 26 Depeche Mode’s own Andy Fletcher passed away from natural causes at his home. He was 60 years old. Band members Dave Gahan and Martin Gore made the somber announcement: "We are shocked and filled with overwhelming sadness with the untimely passing of our dear friend, family member and bandmate Andy 'Fletch' Fletcher". Fletch had a true heart of gold and was always there when you needed support, a lively conversation or a cold pint. Our hearts are with his family...” Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

"Coming up….the story of an art rock heroine Genius named Kate Bush and the story of her beautiful and compelling 80s hit, Running Up that Hill (Deal With God) which just went to #1 a full 37 years after it hit radio. Kate was frustrated by a lack of empathy from the man she loved. To solve the problem, she came up with a bold plan to reverse the role of the sexes.We enter the mind of a true music maverick, and go between the layers of a heavenly classic from the 80s that just got a new lease of life from Stranger Things …NEXT on Professor of Rock.” Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Get the Nirvana Nevermind 30th Anniversary Super Deluxe Edition here: https://shop.nirvana.com/products/nevermind-30th-deluxe-5cd Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Coming Up a song that missed the top 40 in the early 80s but has since then Rock Lobster by the B-52s has become a modern day standard and a major influence after it was released. Cindy Wilson tells the story of how it helped John Lennon come out of retirement and how she and Kate Pierson mimicked sea creatures to get it’s interesting sound and Fred Schneider’s deadpan delivery. The song was punctuated their homage to Yoko Ono. The story of a classic New Avant Guard classic is coming up next. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Up next the story of one of the greatest new wave singles ever released from the lead singer and songwriter of 80s band MODERN ENGLISH, mr. Robbie Grey on the crazy story of I Melt With You which was Inspired by nuclear war and It reached number seven on Billboard mainstream rock chart in 1983 and was re-released in 1990 reaching number 76 on its Hot 100 chart in 1990 Even though it was a one hit wonder, it’s a song that has penetrated every continent and ever generation. The enduring story of a classic next on Professor of Rock. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Everyone loves a love triangle, right? Just as long as you’re not the one on the outs. Well, today’s song was written by Stone Temple Pilots. Frontman Scott Weiland wrote the lyrics about a love triangle between he and his fiancee and the third party, who wasn’t human. The song was a massive hit on the rock charts in the 90s after STP’s first album blew up and critics trashed the band, but they had the last laugh with this hit that described Scott’s battle with an addiction that had a tragic result. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

80s New Wave band, Naked Eyes consisting of Pete Byrne and Rob Fisher took the Burt Bacharach and Hal David classic (There’s) Always Something There To Remind Me and turned it into a show stopping 80s classic taking it to upper reaches of the Billboard Hot 100, retitling it simply, Always Something There To Remind Me. Naked Eyes Lead Singer Pete Byrne tells the story of recording the classic at Abby Road Studios. In the 80s, plenty of remakes of 60s hit’s ruled the charts. Tommy James and the Shondells alone saw three of their song remade and hit upper reaches of the billboard charts, There was Crimson and Clover by Joan Jett, Mony Mony by Billy Idol and I think We’re Alone Now by Tiffany. Motown songs too You Keep Me Hangin On hit #1 for Kim Wilde, a remake of the Supremes original #1. Phil Collins did it with You Can’t Hurry Love another #1 by the Supremes so it would make sense for for Naked Eyes to re make a Burt Bacharach and Hal David composition. Naked Eyes had another hit that’s become a classic, the wonderfulPromises, Promises. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Introducing the story of 5 cult classics from 80s New Wave. I’ve said it before, Some people are sticklers for labels or genres. I’m calling them new wave... Here are five New Wave Cult classics hidden gems from the 80s that deserve recognition and celebration including the Smiths Rusholme Ruffians from Meat is Murder, my favorite band ever. Appetite by Prefab Sprout from Steve McQueen, who’s singer Paddy McAloon had virtually disappear from the public eye, Kiss Off by Violent Femmes from their debut album that sold a million copies and no one can explain how. as well as Silver by Echo and the Bunnymen from Ocean Rain, and Uncertain Smile by The The. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Coming up, 80s guitar hero Steve Stevens who shredded and co-wrote many of Billy Idol’s greatest songs had his gear set up in a studio when film composer Harold Faltermeyer asked him to play a blazing solo for an upcoming movie starring Tom Cruise. The guitar virtuoso began to shred and within minutes he finished the song in 1 take and moved on to the next thing and forgot all about it. To him it was nothing.. well months later it became synonymous with one of the biggest blockbuster films ever in Top Gun and decades later it’s still killing it…. The Top Gun Theme is covered next in an exclusive interview. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In the late 70s, Led Zeppelin divided their fanbase when they released an album that, well... didn’t rock... Or at least that what the naysayers said. Admittedly, this record and today’s song All My Love were a journey into new territory. But Zeppelin wasn’t apologizing. In fact, it was a matter of personal catharsis for Robert Plant who was coming to grips with the most devastating tragedy of his life even as the band was starting to break down with Jimmy Page and John Bonham’s substance abuse problems, John Paul Jones became more central to the band’s Success on IN Through the Out Door the story is coming up NEXT on the Professor of Rock. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Stranger Things Season 4 is just around the corner and in celebration we’re counting down the Top 5 songs from Stranger Things Season 3. In this episode, we’re really packing in as much as we can. With exclusive artist interviews, including REO Speedwagon, Howard Jones Limahl and Foreigner and we’ll go behind the scenes of the show including the big final that had the Theme song from the 80s fantasy film the Never Ending Story. and I’LL GIVE YOU MY TAKE on why these are the best song. Plus, you’re going to get insight into why each song is such a perfect fit for the story. So, get ready for a Stranger Things Fiver that will have you thinking about the series in a whole new way... NEXT on the Professor of Rock. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Up next Jefferson Airplane revolutionized 60s rock with a rebellious psychedelic spirit, but after a split they changed when the decade ended. Transforming into a classic rock 70s outfit with a more accessible sound starting with the hit song JANE. sung by newcomer Mickey Thomas. who share this insight along with band member David Frieberg who co-wrote the classic, turning Classic Rock radio upside down but didn’t they get some inspiration from Hold the Line by Toto. Find out next. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The unorthodox track known as Lullaby by Robert Smith and the Cure has so many stories tied to it. It came from the 1989 classic Disintegration that record execs called a career killer. The creepy opus really was misunderstood from the start. However, hypnotic, haunting, and kind of horrible, this song told a tale that was too shocking to turn away from. About a Spider eating Smith alive. it was the 80s creepiest song and induced plenty of nightmares but where did it come from and what is it really about? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In a year of blockbuster albums songs and artists the English synth domino Howard Jones Quietly released his sophomore album Dream into Action after several successive singles, he released his synth-pop masterwork…No One Is To Blame, which should’ve hit #1 but 1 radio station refused to play it. Up next this 80s icon tells why and how he wrote a standard due to an off-the-cuff comment. HoJo then had the inclination to re-record with a famous drummer in a long-shot bid to bring his music to the masses … NEXT on the Professor of Rock. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Coming up: legendary producer Narada Michael Walden tells us two stories that will make you laugh with joy! One of the most successful producers ever tells us how he was in the middle of working with Aretha Franklin when a 19 year old rookie name Whitney Houston walked in with a powerhouse confidence he’d never seen and recorded the #1 80s smash How Will I Know in 1 take beginning a legendary career few have equaled.. then he retells a story of when another legend named Prince challenged him and others in a game of basketball and with 7 inch heels and a puffy shirt schooled every one on the court. It’s a can't miss on professor of rock. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Rupert Holmes tells the story behind the top ten hit HIM from 1980 after hitting #1 at the end of 1979 and early 1980, with Escape the Pina Colada song . Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Coming up. A combination of two interviews with the co leads of 80s synth band Wang Chung, Jack Hues and Nick Feldman who wrote several hits that defined the era. Here we find out that their 1984 hit Dance Hall Days was well desired. The biggest icon on the planet at that moment Michael Jackson wanted to record the song, but wanted to change the lyrics. This 80s group declined and instead of being on one of the biggest albums of all time in Thriller it became this band’s debut hit single… the story is coming up on professor of rock Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Stevie Nicks and Lindsey Buckingham were lovers who had been trying to make it in music for years. After some fiery arguments, years of failures and poverty, Stevie decided to quit music for good. One night she put all that pain into a song she called Landslide. Almost over night after writing that classic she and Lindsey met Fleetwood Mac and they were asked to join up. They recorded the white album with song of their own to add and the rest is history. How Landslide changed all of that. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Coming up, we’re going to go behind the Top 10 songs of this VERY same week from the year 1970. 52 years ago. This top 10 has one of the greatest most revered tracks gracing its ranks. Will The Beatles be crowned #1? Not if the Jackson 5, The Guess Who or solo John Lennon have anything to say about it. Plus, we have some surprise underdogs and one of the most successful one hit wonders of all time looking to make their mark. Find out how it all shakes down, next on our latest edition of the Hit Song Redux! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Coming up a british new wave paragon of the 80s Cy Curnin of the Fixx takes us behind his band’s haunting first album. Released in 1982, the 2 biggest singles form the record Stand or Fall and Red Skies not only became their first charting hits in America, they captured the atmosphere of the cold war 80s in eerie fashion. The song still resonate today and have the ability of hypnotizing you as a listener. Find out what inspired the music and why they are more relevant today then they were back then. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This nerdy 80s rocker gave me some much needed motivation as I stood at the highest diving platform at the massive community pool trying to get the nerve to the impossible. With a beautiful lifeguard looking on and the bullies razzing me, it was dive or die. The soundtrack of this conquering day in my life was Ah Leah by Donnie Iris. the 80s classic that should’ve been a #1 hit. Up next I tell the story of both sides of the equation… the diving board and the charts... Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

To many in the US, today’s international artist is simply known as the “balloon chick.” That’s in no small part thanks to her #2 US hit about lighter-than-air party favors. And though this song is only a small part of Nena's career, she doesn’t mind the label One Hit Wonder. Because believe it or not, 99 Luftballoons is a masterful anthem speaking out against Cold War fear and paranoia. It’s the ultimate pop contradiction song, a light-hearted ditty with a heavyweight message.and Nena took it all the way to the top of the charts in 1984 and decades later it still resonates Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Known to many as hard and heavy rockers, Led Zeppelin has written some of the greatest pulse-pounding classics of the past half-century. But at one point they were actually called out by George Harrison for rocking too much. Challenged to bring it down a few notches, guitar virtuoso Jimmy Page composed a sonic soundscape so lush and surreal that one of rock’s premiere producers said it defied classification.WHEN Jimmy Page, Robert Plant, John Paul Jones and John Bohnam wrote the 70s album track the rain song, they put the greatest poets on notice. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Today we talk with the lead singer and co-writer of one of the best British new wave duos of the 80s… The soul surviving hit making group, Go West. Go West was formed by the soulful new wave crooner Peter Cox and the smooth voiced Richard Drummie in the 80s and were successful in the UK first with the hit We Close Our Eyes. Which went top5 on the british charts while getting radio play in America and barely missing the top 40, peaking at 41. Peter Cox tells us the story of writing it and the first time he heard it on the radio as well AS WORKING WITH FAMED music directors Gooley and Creme. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Legendary Jane’s Addiction frontman Perry Farrell grew up stealing clothes from a thrift store and even stole from a commercial airline This is the hilarious story of Been Caught Stealing the 90s alternative rock classic from Ritual De Lo Habitual which signified Jane’s as the Godfathers of Alternative Rock. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

While driving home from rehearsal one day, Anthony Kiedis of Red Hot Chili Peppers was in a melancholy mood. Flashing back to his former drug-induced days, he saw himself strung-out on a dirty mattress beneath an overpass. Surrounded by junkies and gang-bangers, it was a miracle that he was still alive. Suddenly, in the midst of his sorrow, he started singing... And for the rest of the ride, he freestyled a song that not only his soothed his trauma, but inspired a generation cope with theirs as well. UNDER the BRIDGE the classic anthem of the early 90s. So get ready, we’re taking you to the place you love, we’re taking you all the way… with Flea, John Frusciante, Chad Smith and Anthony Kiedis of the Chili Peppers NEXT on the Professor of Rock. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Up next we’re going to go go behind the top 10 songs of this VERY same week from the year 1983 39 years ago. This top 10 has a very unique event… Michael Jackson was at #1 the week previous to this and would have a chance to replace himself at #1 Will he do it or will Styx, Prince, Dexy’s Midnight Runners or the Police stop him?With your stories and the artist’s commentary from exclusive interviews We'll Find out next on our latest edition of the Hit Song Redux! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

If there was ever a cautionary tale about a rock group making a deal with the devil to hit the big time, it would be the story of the rise and fall of SWEET. A saga of talent, fame & excess, followed by violence, frustration, alcoholism, disaster, poverty, and death. Along this bumpy journey, there are a lot of GREAT songs that will make you stand up and cheer. I want to warn you….it’s gonna be electric and frantically hectic.. the story of their biggest american hit Ballroom Bltiz from the 70s is .NEXT…on Professor of Rock. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Coming up, We Break down the biggest selling album of Rush’s storied career, celebrating Moving Pictures 40th Anniversary by unboxing the Deluxe 5 Lp set. You Can Purchase Here: https://rush.lnk.to/MovingPictures40th0F Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In early 1988 the INXS song Need You Tonight went to #1… becoming the signature hit for a legendary band with closet full of hits and memorable songs..Not bad for a song that was written on a crappy little 8 track machine while a taxi honked impatiently while it’s co writer Andrew Farriss tried to finish it so he wouldn’t miss his plane to Hong Kong to write with iconic lead singer, Michael Hutchence who listen to it and wrote the memorable lyrics in just a few minutes… This is one of the most entertaining song stories ever with the actually co writer here to tell us next… Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

WE count down the top 5 hidden gems from 80s movies. When you do this, it’s almost impossible to avoid the great John Hughes. He fingerprints were all over the greatest movies of the time like Weird Science (OINGO BOINGO), Pretty in Pink (OMD), Ferris Bueller’s Day Off (The Beatles) The Breakfast Club (Simple Minds) but here we capture the hidden gems in his and others films including the Karate Kid, The Wild Life, and Sixteen Candles as some of the icons of the era help me count them down and tell the stories, including Paul Young, Huey Lewis, Young MC and Tom Bailey of the Thompson Twins Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

up next one of the most under appreciated singers of the 80s had a few years of bad luck in the industry… until he was in the right place at the right time and got a career defining opportunity when one of the biggest movies of 1990 used their song in the opening credits and the song became a smash. The heart stopping singer tells us the story of one of the greatest movie songs ever and how the title came from a random comment at a bar…next on professor of rock brought to you by Zenni. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.