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Professor of Rock

Professor of Rock

1,727 episodes — Page 32 of 35

Gary Clark on Mary’s Prayer – The Heartbreaking 80s Hidden Gem by Danny Wilson

This the story of one of the greatest hidden gems of the entire 80s, the one hit wonder, Mary’s Prayer by Danny Wilson It’s a breathtaking song, one of my favorites ever, that will make your heart stop as told by its singer and songwriter Gary Clark. If you love the 80s then this one is a no brainer. the story of this 1987 pop 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.

May 20, 202132 min

John Rzeznik on the Story Behind Goo Goo Dolls’ Name – The 90s Hit That Changed Everything

Up next the story of one of my most haunting songs of the mid 90s as told by one of the most iconic bands the last 25 years Goo Goo Dolls. With speculation having run rampant of the meaning of this number one alternative rock song we get the straight story from the bands front man and songwriter John Rzeznik in an exclusive and personal interview 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.

May 19, 202116 min

How Tom Petty’s I Won’t Back Down Became a Defiant 80s Rock Anthem

An attempt to take the life of the great Tom Petty, and destroy his family, ignited a defiant spirit that inspired an anthem for unshakable strength & resolve. The #1 rock hit I Won’t Back Down from his 1989 masterpiece Full Moon Fever. We tenaciously & proudly stand our ground with the incomparable Tom Petty.. 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.

May 14, 202120 min

The 200-Year Evolution of Black Betty – How Ram Jam Turned a Folk Chant into a 70s Rock Classic

Up next, is the story of how a band from Cincinnati name Ram Jam changed an African American labor chant, with a debated origin, into a rip-roaring guitar track that became an international smash and is now a standard of 70s classic rock, having been covered many times since. The stunning transformation & history of “Black Betty” 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.

May 12, 202114 min

The Rise of Bon Jovi – Their Top 5 Songs That Defined Rock & Resilience

The thing about Jon Bon Jovi and his incredible band is the music they've created has always got your back. From "Livin' On A Prayer" and "You Give Love a Bad Name" to "Wanted Dead or Alive" and "It's My Life", their music gives us redemption and faith against all odds. Mostly it's music of hope, which is a powerful thing, especially in the times we live in. As Jon Bon Jovi says "You live for the fight when that's all that you've got". You got to keep the faith. 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.

May 11, 202118 min

Perry Farrell on the Story Behind Jane’s Addiction’s Jane Says – An Alternative Rock Classic

Up next the Godfather of Alternative rock Perry Farrell of Jane’s Addiction tells us the very personal story of one of the true standards of 1988, Jane Says. We solve the mystery of this very eerie and brilliant song and the woman who inspired the song and the band’s name. Plus he goes in depth on how he created the band’s seminal album cover. A bonafide Must see story behind the song 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.

May 10, 202119 min

Steve Lukather & Joseph Williams on Toto’s Pamela – Their Last Big 80s Hit

Up next a brand new interview with two musical giants: Steve Lukather and Joseph Williams from Toto on the story of an 80s gem that was their last big hit of the decade in the US, Pamela from their album the Seventh One. A great breakdown from the two, plus insight into their new projects including what’s next for TOTO, 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.

May 8, 202126 min

Nelson on the Story Behind Their 1990 #1 Hit (Can’t Live Without Your) Love and Affection

Up next identical twins Matthew and Gunnar Nelson of the family band Nelson, who’s father Rick Nelson was a pioneer of early Rock and Roll and who’s grandfather Ozzie Nelson was a singer/actor. With their 1990 #1 hit made them the Third generation in the family to have a #1 single. The only family who ever accomplished that. The group tells the story of the #1 rock ballad Love and Affection that was inspired by supermodel Cindy Crawford, the story 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.

May 6, 202129 min

How Depeche Mode’s Violator Took Over the Mainstream in 1990

It was time for a monumental breakout for another historic quartet from Britain that evoked Beatlemania excitement… Depeche Mode interrupted the mainstream in 1990 with a fresh perspective The back-story of why Violator- became a landmark album for Depeche Mode 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.

May 5, 202123 min

Mark Kendall on Great White’s 1989 Hit Once Bitten, Twice Shy – A Glam Metal Revival

Up next a song that was a hit in the 70s and 80s by two different artists. First for a former member of Mott the Hoople, lead singer Ian Hunter and then for one of the breakout Glam Metal band of the late 80s Great White who took it all the way to the top 5 in the summer of 1989, The Idea to remake Once Bitten Twice Shy was given to them by Guns ’ N’ Roses. Mark Kendall the guitarist and cofounder of this metal band tells the story 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.

May 3, 202120 min

The Story Behind 1987’s Haunting New Wave Power Ballad – Told by Its Singer & Songwriter

This pseudo New Wave Rock power ballad seemed to come out of nowhere in 1987. Armed with an emotional lead vocal, the song is so haunting it’s almost supernatural, which drove it to #1 all over the world. The story is told by it’s singer and songwriter including an acoustic performance, this is a can’t miss 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.

May 1, 202118 min

Unboxing John Lennon/Plastic Ono Band – The Ultimate Collection & the Story Behind the Album

Following the break-up of the greatest band ever assembled, the group's legendary co-leader faced his demons, and extricated them by creating songs that he claimed to be the best he had ever written We explore & celebrate the beginning of John Lennon's solo era, and Unbox the incredible John Lennon/ Plastic Ono Band - The Ultimate Collection (Super Deluxe Box Set) 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.

Apr 30, 202117 min

Steven Tyler & Joe Perry on the Story Behind Aerosmith’s Sweet Emotion – Their 70s Breakout Hit

In the early 70s 'the bad boys of Boston” know as Aerosmith were a maelstrom of chaos, and chemically induced tension. The leaders Steven Tyler and Joe Perry battled through their toxic relationship between themselves, and an interloper to produce a rockin’ rampage that started with bassist Tom Hamilton’s vibe, Sweet Emotion would be the band’s breakout hit. We relive the 'bitter sweetness' of a classic rock standard 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.

Apr 29, 202115 min

Eddie Van Halen & Co. on Hot for Teacher, I’ll Wait, and the Genius of 1984

Today we break down side 2 of the hard rock masterpiece 1984 by Van Halen including the story behind the blazing scorcher Hot For Teacher and the Michael McDonald co penned I’ll Wait, including another cool story about Eddie Van Halen from a recent interview. How David Lee Roth Eddie Van Halen, Michael Anthony and Alex Van Halen set the blue print for the blockbuster 1984 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.

Apr 28, 202122 min

Lou Gramm’s Powerful Voice – Celebrating Foreigner’s Underrated Rock Vocalist & His Top 5 Songs

With exclusive commentary from Foreigner’s Mick Jones. To paraphrase a lyric from Foreigner’s song “Urgent”, Lou Gramm has “fire in his veins”. The timbre of Lou’s voice is unmistakable. That beautiful flowing tenor with a perfect measure of gravel that when he was with Foreigner in the 70s, 80s and 90s set the band apart from every other. When Lou wailed it was like the roar of a lion. With songs like “Jukebox Hero”, “Feels Like the First Time” “Cold as Ice”, “I to Know What Love Is” “Waiting For a Girl Like You”, “Hot Blooded” and so many more, Mick Jones, Lou Gramm, and Foreigner were the top of the heap. Here we celebrate the genius of Lou’s instrument, his voice and recognize him as one of the most underrated vocalists. 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.

Apr 27, 202117 min

Revisiting the Top 5 Songs of 1984 – Ranking Them by All-Time Performance

Up next we recalibrate the top 5 songs from a week in the summer of 1984 based on how the songs have done in the decades since. Ranked by all time performance What is the new number one song? Is it Prince? Duran Duran? Huey Lewis? Michael Jackson? or someone else, with commentary from the artists Find out who’s #1 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.

Apr 24, 202125 min

Unboxing The Who Sell Out Super Deluxe Edition & the Story Behind This 1967 Classic

Professor of Rock unboxes The Who Sell Out Super Deluxe Edition and tells the history behind this incredible concept album with the stories behind key songs including their top 10 US hit “I Can See For Miles”. Pete Townshend, Roger Daltrey, John Entwistle and Keith Moon were at their most creative. The compelling tale 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.

Apr 23, 202116 min

5 Forgotten 70s Hits to Rediscover – Featuring Artist Interviews & Hidden Gems

In this edition of 70s Hidden Gems, we dangerously hover over some gory pulp fiction with Bloodrock’s freaky D.O.A, We drift down the sea of heartbreak with Ian Gomm’s Hold On….and come together for a union of humanity with Livingston Taylor “I Will Be In Love With You" (James Taylor’s brother) and Lindisfarne with Run For Home and Robert Palmer’s Every Kind of People. This is A showcase of 5 diverse 70s Hidden Gems that you’re going to love to re discover , including commentary from artists 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.

Apr 22, 202124 min

Breaking Down Van Halen’s 1984 – How Eddie Van Halen & David Lee Roth Made a Rock Classic

It was a pivotal crossroads for America’s favorite party band to make the jump to becoming the world’s biggest rock band… Up next we break down Van Halen 1984 song by song including a great story about Eddie Van Halen from his friend and fellow Guitarist Steve Stevens: We go back to the exciting & turbulent year of 1984 song by song including the stories behind the songs including the title track, Jump, Panama, Top Jimmy and Drop Dead Legs 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.

Apr 16, 202121 min

A Tribute to Casey Kasem – The Voice That Defined 70s & 80s Music

Up next we celebrate a true trailblazer of rock and pop music The king of the American top 40 Casey Kasem. This is a tribute to my hero, the man who gave life to all of the classic songs of the 70s and 80s. A legend that brought all of us together every week to honor the biggest songs of the times counting them down one by one from 40 all the way to #1. including an exclusive interview with his daughter Kerri Kasem. For any of you that came of age in the 70s or 80s, this one will bring a smile to your face. 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.

Apr 13, 20219 min

Alan Parsons on The Alan Parsons Project – Its Connection to Dark Side of the Moon

Up next the maestro of music Alan Parsons who engineered the Beatles Abbey Road, Let It Be and Dark Side of the Moon for Pink Floyd takes us through the stories behind crafting his own albums with the Alan Parson’s Project. It’s a can’t miss exploration through his work with Pilot, Ambrosia as well as Tales of Mystery and Imagination, I Robot, Pyramid, Eve, and the Turn of a Friendly Card 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.

Apr 10, 202124 min

Patty Smyth on the Story Behind Scandal’s Goodbye to You – A 1982 New Wave Classic

Up Next on Professor of Rock, we explore in-depth the story of one of the 80s BEST Kiss-Off songs ever recorded. This song's impact spans more generations than many of the songs being written today. In our interview with the Artist Patty Smyth, the Professor learns the story of how this powerful song, Goodbye To You by Scandal, came to be and the meaning of it's lyrics. Turns out, it's not what we all thought... 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.

Apr 7, 202122 min

Elliot Lurie on Brandy (You’re a Fine Girl) – The 1972 #1 Hit That Endures Across Generations

Up next the story behind one of the bonafide classic songs of the 1970s Brandy (You’re a Fine Girl) straight from the singer and songwriter of Looking Glass, Elliot Lurie, including an acoustic performance. This song has attracted every generation since it’s release and conquered pop culture through it’s use in Guardians of the Galaxy. You won’t want to miss this one... 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.

Apr 5, 202133 min

Breaking Down Phil Collins’ No Jacket Required – The 1985 Album That Perfectly Balanced Rock & Pop

No Jacket Required by the great Phil Collins is one of the all time Top 50 selling albums ever got its title from a real life incident where the Phil was denied access into a restaurant because he was “improperly dressed.” A breakdown of the inspired tracks, inducing Inside Out, One More Might , Don’t Lose My Number, Take Me Home and the angry episode that led to the making of a masterpiece 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.

Apr 3, 202123 min

The Lost Art of Greatest Hits Albums – Celebrating Music’s Ultimate Gateways

Up next the story of true lost art. Before the days of Spotify, Remember the good ol' day when you heard a song from an artist that you didn’t know and you wanted to hear more but you couldn’t stream their music, you had to buy it. We revisit our take on the Greatest hits album that was the gateway to the great records including a top fiver including Billy Joel, The Beatles, Fleetwood Macs, Prince and Journey. 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.

Mar 30, 202113 min

Creedence Clearwater Revival’s Record-Breaking #2 Hits – The Band That Never Hit #1

From 1967 to 1972, Creedence Clearwater Revival was a juggernaut. Pumping out 6 multi-platinum albums, and one gold record- yielding ten Top-20 pop hits. During their 5 year dominance, CCR, or simply “Creedence” as their most ardent fans call them, set a record for having the most #2 singles by a group on the Billboard Hot 100. CCR reached the #2 spot on the Billboard Hot 100 FIVE times, and each one of those near-chart toppers are mainstays on the list of the most venerable of the Rock Era. On our series celebrating the greatest #2 songs of all time we are going to breakdown all FIVE of those classic #2 hits from CCR, including three epic double-A side singles including Proud Mary and Born on the Bayou, Travelin' Band and Who’ll Stop the Rain, Looking out my Backdoor and As Log As I Can See the Light, plus Green River and Bad Moon Rising. 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.

Mar 27, 202123 min

The Top 5 Neil Diamond Songs – Celebrating a Rock & Pop Legend

From the NCAA championship fencing team to rock legend, Neil Diamond, often imitated, never duplicated. There are two kinds of people in this world, those who love Neil Diamond and those who are lying through their teeth. The master of that amazing, incomparable voice, and the brilliant writer of some of the most endearing songs of all time. This video celebrates his majesty with his top 5 songs including America. 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.

Mar 23, 202114 min

Breaking Down U2’s The Joshua Tree – The Iconic 80s Album That Almost Didn’t Happen

Despite its eventual historic significance, there was a moment when the band’s iconic lead singer contemplated scrapping one of the greatest albums ever recorded, because he had second thoughts about the quality of the record. The story of what led to the creation of U2’s astonishing achievement The Joshua Tree 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.

Mar 22, 202125 min

Chris Robinson on The Black Crowes’ She Talks to Angels – The Blues Rock Revival of the 90s

As the calendar turned from 1989 to 1990 the Black Crowes came out of nowhere to keep rock and roll alive with a throwback sound that was fresh and lively with the voice of Chris Robinson and Guitar of Rich Robinson brothers in arms. The album Shake your Moneymaker was a revival of good old time rock and roll. Up next lead singer Chris Robinson relates the story behind their hit She Talk To Angels. 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.

Mar 19, 202119 min

The Story Behind The Who’s Baba O’Riley – The 70s Rock Anthem That Almost Didn’t Happen

It was a track intended to be part of the second rock opera after one of rock’s greatest bands, the Who hit with Tommy. It was going to be called LIFEHOUSE. Pete Townshends’s project almost broke up the group, and nearly took his life. With a fiery vocal by Roger Daltrey and the usual magic of John Entwistle and Keith Moon. The story of Baba O’Riley by The Who NEXT 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.

Mar 18, 202118 min

Ann Wilson of Heart on Working with Led Zeppelin & Performing Stairway to Heaven

Led Zeppelin conquered the world in the 70s. they also inspired two sisters who by the mid 70s proved they could rock as hard as any band in music. Up Next Ann Wilson of Heart shares a few personal stories about Led Zeppelin and her experiences meeting her heroes through her career including their performance of Stairway to Heaven at the Kenned Center Honors. 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.

Mar 17, 202115 min

The Story Behind The Smiths’ Please, Please, Please Let Me Get What I Want – The Saddest 80s Song

The story of how the poet Laurette of the rock era Morrissey and the jangle pop practitioner Johnny Marr co-created the saddest 80s Vinyl Song with Please, Please, Please Let Me Get What I Want and Why the Smiths were the greatest band of their time 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.

Mar 15, 202118 min

The Story Behind Pink Floyd’s Comfortably Numb – How Roger Waters & David Gilmour Created a Masterpiece

One of music’s most mercurial heroes, Roger Waters wrote lyrics for a progressive rock masterpiece with music by David Gilmour inspired by a tranquilizer shot back stage- big enough for an elephant to provide relief from painful stomach cramps brought on by a serious virus the artist DIDN’T EVEN KNOW HE HAD. The compelling story of the all time Pink Floyd classic Comfortably Numb 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.

Mar 13, 202119 min

Patrick Leonard on Madonna’s Like a Prayer – The 1989 Pop Anthem That Sparked Controversy

Up next the story of one of the biggest songs of 1989 from the queen of pop Madonna that would breed controversy and complete the transition from star to serious artist. An interview with co-writer Patrick Leonard on the incredible pop symphony, Like A Prayer with Prince on guitar. 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.

Mar 12, 202117 min

The Story Behind Fleetwood Mac’s Dreams – Stevie Nicks’ Heartfelt Breakup Anthem

When you listen to the modern day standard "Dreams” by Fleetwood Mac, you may not immediately hear the sadness. You may not recognize that it is song about a failing relationship. 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.

Mar 9, 202116 min

80s Mixtape: Stories from Toto, Men at Work, The Church, and More

It’s time for a new segment that we’ll be bringing to you called 80s Mixtape, featuring multiple artist on some of the memorable stories of their songs. We’ve released hundreds of hours of content over the last year on this channel and we picked out 5 of our greatest hits if you will, with some new commentary to make a little POR mixtape, funny stories from the likes of Toto on working on Michael Jackson Thriller, Rick Springfield on Affair of the Heart , Men At Work on creating the #1 hit Down Under , the Church on their dark song, Reptile, and Ray Parker Jr. on Ghostbusters This a great video mixtape to start off the week. 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.

Mar 8, 202115 min

Top 5 Forgotten 70s Songs You Need to Hear – Featuring Artist Interviews

The 70s were the golden decade of classic rock. If you turn on any classic rock radio station you’ll likely hear a lot of the great bands and songs over and over, but up next we are going to countdown 5 songs from legendary rock artists that don’t get the airplay they deserve. Yep it’s our first edition of 70s hidden gems with commentary from key members of the 70s biggest bands including Burton Cummings formerly of The Guess Who, Blue Oyster Cult, Don McLean and Suzi Quatro as well as Boston’s first drummer and more. 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.

Mar 6, 202121 min

The Story Behind The Beatles’ Perfect Double A-Side – Penny Lane & Strawberry Fields Forever

The collaborative genius of Lennon & McCartney created many of the most celebrated compositions ever recorded- including two heartfelt & evocative pieces of musical theater that demonstrated why The Beatles were the most impactful group of the Rock Era. The story of the powerful double-A side masterpiece- “Penny Lane” and “Strawberry Fields Forever” 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.

Mar 5, 202125 min

The Story Behind The Grass Roots’ Let’s Live for Today – A 60s Hidden Gem That Comforted Soldiers

Up next the story of a song that resonated strongly with soldiers who were sent to fight in the Vietnam war. Let’s Live For Today Written by a classic songwriting team PF. Sloan and Steve Barri for the Grass Roots who were put together by the legendary music man Lou Adler comforted many who were drafted to go to war. Let’s Live for Today went to the top 10 in 1967.The story of this poignant composition from key band member Warren Entner who would go onto manage many bands including Rage Against the Machine and Faith No More 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.

Mar 1, 202113 min

The Misunderstood Meaning Behind Lynyrd Skynyrd’s Sweet Home Alabama

It’s a song that virtually everyone can sing a long to, but it’s also one of the most controversial and misunderstood tracks of the Rock Era. The colorful & traumatic story of Lynyrd Skynyrd & their eternal American rock classic “Sweet Home Alabama” and why Ronnie Van Zant was one of the greatest frontmen of his time 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.

Feb 26, 202123 min

Rupert Holmes on the Story Behind Escape (The Piña Colada Song) – A Hit in Both the 70s & 80s

It's very rare that a song peaks on the charts where it bookends one decade and a few weeks later starts another where it seems like the feeling of the song itself is both look back and looking forward. Escape (the Pina Colada song) by Rupert Holmes has become a pop culture phenomenon. The story is 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.

Feb 22, 202134 min

Steve Kilbey on The Church’s Under the Milky Way – The Haunting 1988 Rock Hit

Up next, one of the most haunting songs of the 1980s Under the Milky Way by The Church. Lead singer and writer of this classic song Steve Kilbey tells us what influenced the song and if you guessed a million times, you would never come close to what the answer is. The story of this mysterious 1988 hit from their gold album Starfish 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.

Feb 20, 202116 min

Exclusive Interview & Tribute to Mary Wilson of The Supremes

All of us at Professor of Rock were deeply saddened by the recent passing of Mary Wilson- one of the founding members of the legendary & ground-breaking act The Supremes. 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.

Feb 16, 20214 min

5 Forgotten Glam Metal Gems of the 80s – Featuring Warrant, Great White, Mötley Crüe & More

In the 80s Glam metal ruled radio and MTV, we’re all aware of the biggest songs of the genre and decade but up next we count down 5 of the best 80s hidden gems, glam metal including interviews with key members of some of the groups including Warrant and Great White. As well as songs by Mötley Crüe, Dokken and Cinderella. 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.

Feb 13, 202124 min

Sammy Hagar vs. David Lee Roth – How Eddie Van Halen Defined the Debate

The aftermath of the original Van Halen lineup is compelling Eddie, Sammy and co hit #1 with 5150 and Diamond Dave recruited young virtuoso Steve Vai for the multiplatinum Eat and Smile. Next up the story continues with the history of their next releases in 87 and 88 from OU812 to Skyscraper with exclusive commentary by Sammy Hagar and Steve Vai 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.

Feb 11, 202125 min

How Tom Petty Proved His Label Wrong with Free Fallin’

An unlikely superstar partnership turned 3 simple chords into the biggest solo hit of a rock icon’s career. The story of the making, and the major label snubbing of the Tom Petty smash Free Fallin that he co-wrote with Electric Light Orchestra principal Jeff Lynne and Mike Cambell from the album Full Moon Fever. We discuss why this petty classic should’ve been #1 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.

Feb 10, 202120 min

The Story Behind I've Had the Time of My Life – The Hit That Defined Dirty Dancing

Up next the story of I’ve Had the Time of My Life from one of the biggest selling movie soundtrack ever, Dirty Dancing partly sung by a rock hall of famer Bill Medley from the Righteous Brothers who had been out of the limelight for years and the elegant Jennifer Warnes. The two co-writers of the song, Franke Previte and John DeNicola tell the story behind writing this hit in our interview, along with Bill Medley’s memories of the 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.

Feb 8, 202137 min

The 90s Heart Hit Ann Wilson Disliked – The Story Behind All I Wanna Do Is Make Love to You

After dominating rock radio in the mid 70s and emerging with a big comeback in the 80s on MTV, Ann Wilson and the band Heart entered the 90s with the multiplatinum album Brigade which contained a song that became Hearts biggest hit in years. A song that Ann Wilson hated. Up next the story of Heart in the 90s including their other band the Love mongers and Ann’s experiences with the grunge movement 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.

Feb 3, 202117 min

Top 5 Iconic Rock Eyewear – Featuring Bono, Slash, and Stevie Nicks

Since the beginning of time, wearing glasses may have been due to seeing better but since the Rock Era began in ’55, eyewear has become a fashion statement, and in some cases as iconic as the artist themselves. In this feature we spotlight 5 more iconic eyewear of the rock era: starring Bono, Slash and Stevie Nicks. 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.

Feb 2, 20213 min

How Depeche Mode Crafted the Synth-Pop Masterpiece Black Celebration

Dave Gahan and Martin Gore's Electronic supergroup Depeche Mode has built one of the most loyal fan bases in music history. The LP that truly solidified eternal veneration was Black Celebration. With some of the most satisfying songs of DM’s career including Stripped, Question of Lust, Here is the House, But Not Tonight, the dark title track and A Question of Time, Black Celebration is a new wave synth pop masterpiece of 1986. An expose of this messianic album 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.

Jan 14, 202120 min