What the Riff Next Gen

This week, Wayne brings us Equinox, the fifth studio album by Styx. This would be their first album for A&M Records and their last album with guitarist John Curulewski. He would be replaced by guitarist and singer Tommy Shaw on their next release, “The Grand Illusion,” at which point Styx would take the form which most of us remember as one of the groups that make up the soundtrack of our childhood. Equinox would only go to #58 on the album charts, but would see a resurgence with the release of The Grand Illusion in 1977.
Midnight Ride
James "JY" Young takes the vocal duties on this track, also written by Young. It is a fast, rocking song about a one-night stand with a groupie.
Lorelai
This track is the biggest hit from the album and features the vocals of both James Young and the distinctive sound of Dennis DeYoung. The name of the album was from a brainstorming session, and “Equinox” was the only name that everyone didn't hate. Lorelai was the name of a water fairy.
Prelude 12
This song is performed and written by John Curulewski. This instrumental on a 12-string guitar is the prelude to Suite Madame Blue, and is often missed when that song is played on the radio or Spotify.
Suite Madame Blue
This well-known epic was written for the US Bicentennial. Wistful yet positive despite its minor key, the song calls for reflection and responsibility. The song was done in one day.
ENTERTAINMENT TRACK:
Theme from "Laverne and Shirley"
This television series spin-off from "Happy Days" would debut in January on ABC.
STAFF PICKS:
“Dream On” by Aerosmith
There is no mistaking the opening riff from this epic pick by Brian. It was originally released in 1973, but had its album re-release in December 1975 and was marching up the charts in January. Steven Tyler was not originally comfortable singing in the higher octaves, but fortunately overcame that fear.
“Island Girl” by Elton Jon
Rob's staff pick was #1 for three weeks, and was the first single from the album "Rock of the Westies." Kiki Dee is on background vocals on this Caribbean-influenced hit.
“50 Ways to Leave Your Lover” by Paul Simon
Bruce's staff pick is the second single off Simon's album "Still Crazy After All These Years." This is Simon's sole #1 hit as a solo artist.
“Tower” by Angel
Wayne cranks things back up with his staff pick from a group discovered by Gene Simmons of Kiss. Angel had a prog rock vibe and dressed in all white during their performances. "Tower" is a medieval themed track.
LAUGH TRACK:
“Convoy” CW McCall
We finish off this episode with this ode to the CB radio. Citizens Band was pretty much the social media app of the 70's.
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**NOTE: What the Riff?!? does not own the rights to any of these songs and we neither sell, nor profit from them. We share them so you can learn about them and purchase them for your own collections.

Brian has us riffing on Soundgarden. If they were “superunknown” at the time, it wouldn't last past the release of this fourth studio album. Soundgarden would break into super stardom with this heavy hitting, 5-time platinum effort. The strength and distinctiveness of Chris Cornell's vocals are obvious. Sometimes called Stoner Rock, Soundgarden would be a key element in solidifying the "grunge" sound of Seattle. They won two Grammy awards for "Black Hole Sun" and "Spoonman." The album cover is a distorted image of the band members and is known as "the screaming elf."
Black Hole Sun
This is one of the big hits from the album. There were 15 tracks on this album, clocking in at over 70 minutes, exploiting the longer format of CD's relative to vinyl.
The Day I Tried to Live
This track released as a single was a deeper cut not often heard outside of rock stations. The strategy employed by Soundgarden was to have each musician to create his own work, then collaborate after the song was written.
Fell on Black Days
Another hit single from the album, Cornell said that this song was about realizing "you're unhappy in the extreme."
ENTERTAINMENT TRACK:
Theme from "The Naked Gun 33 1/3"
This music track was used for both the "Naked Gun" movies and the "Police Squad" TV series.
STAFF PICKS:
“Mr. Jones” by Counting Crows
Rob's staff pick is the first radio hit from "August and Everything After," released in December 1993. They also did the song "Accidentally in Love" for one of the "Shreck" movies. "We all want to be big, big stars, but we've got different reasons for that."
“Return to Innocence” by Enigma
Bruce's staff pick highlights the use of sampling popular at the time. The drum beat is from Led Zeppelin's "When the Levee Breaks." Unfortunately the Taiwanese chant sampled was copyrighted, resulting in a series of lawsuits.
“Cannonball” by Breeders
This alternative rock hit from the Dayton-based Breeders is off their second album entitled "Last Splash." "I know you're a libertine. I know you're a cannonball."
“Mary Jane's Last Dance” by Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers
Brian closes out Stafff Picks with this song, originally going to be called "Indiana Girl," but Petty revised it to it's current form. There's not too many videos emphasizing necrophilia, but this is one of them.
INSTRUMENTAL TRACK:
“Train in the Rain” by Bruce Cockburn
We finish off this week with a laid back fingerstyle guitar track.
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**NOTE: What the Riff?!? does not own the rights to any of these songs and we neither sell, nor profit from them. We share them so you can learn about them and purchase them for your own collections.

Bruce presents the fifth album by Australian rock band The Church. It would be their breakthrough album for international success. After starting as a new wave band in 1980, The Church drifted into a little alternative, a little psychedelic, a little goth - some would call it dream pop. The lyrics and music are both a little dark and wistful, a result of their recording far from home in Los Angeles, and pouring their feelings of being in a strange place they didn't really like into their music. Arista was their new label for this studio album, and despite the homesickness of the band, their work in LA paid off with a great album.
Destination
This is the first track on the album and describes a dystopian totalitarian bureaucracy. "It's not a religion, it's just a technique, it's just a way of making you speak. Distance and speed have left us too weak, and destination looks kind of bleak."
Reptile
The second hit from the album is a song about a bad relationship. "Go now, you've been set free. Another month or so, you'll be poisoning me with your lovely smile."
Under The Milky Way
This is the first and biggest hit from the album with a great 12-string acoustic foundation. The title is inspired by a music hall in Amsterdam that is in a former milk factory. The name of the hall is Melkweg, Dutch for "Milky Way."
ENTERTAINMENT TRACK:
“With A Little Help from My Friends” by Joe Cocker
This was the theme song from "The Wonder Years" TV series.
STAFF PICKS:
“Tunnel of Love” by Bruce Springsteen
Brian's staff pick is off the solo (minus the E. Street Band) album from The Boss. The tunnel of love is an amusement park ride in Asbury Park Boardwalk, and is a metaphor for the ups and downs of a relationship.
“Rhythm of Love” by Yes
Wayne's staff pick takes a prog rock turn with a Beach Boys harmony feel. All roads lead to Yes, in this case off their 12th studio album "Big Generator."
“Devil Inside” by INXS
The Australian group had a huge album in "Kick", and Rob's staff pick is one of the hits off this album. "The future uncertain, but certainly slight." HBO used this song on the trailer for the fourth season from "A Game of Thrones."
“It's The End Of The World As We Know It (And I Feel Fine)” by REM
This fast talking hit off the 1987 album “Document” channels Bob Dylan's stream-of-consciousness approach from "Subterranean Homesick Blues."
LAUGH TRACK:
“You Talk Too Much” George Thorogood & the Destroyers
We go out this week on George Thorogood's comedic rant about a girlfriend who just won't stop talking.
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**NOTE: What the Riff?!? does not own the rights to any of these songs and we neither sell, nor profit from them. We share them so you can learn about them and purchase them for your own collections.

Coming off the success of their debut album, Toto took a turn toward the progressive rock sound with their sophomore studio album, Hydra. While many LA bands were hitting the club circuit, Toto was making their mark in the studios. The members of Toto are some of the most sought-after session musicians, but the band itself is made of high school friends and family, many of whom came from musical families and circles. Jeff Porcaro claimed that the name came from the Latin phrase “in toto,” meaning “all,” or “as a whole.”
​Musical Fact Finder and Friend of the show Doug Aiken profiles this album from his favorite band!
99
This is the one hit off the album with its distinctive piano structure. The song was inspired by George Lucas' film THX-1138 in which people no longer have names, only numbers.
Mama
This track has a classic Los Angeles sound with smooth grooves - think George Benson or Steely Dan. There is a stripped-down sound to this music, making good use of space instead of the "wall of sound" more common in prog rock works.
Hydra
The title track from the album is a prog rock opus, complete with fantasy monsters and damsels in distress.
ENTERTAINMENT TRACK:
Theme from "Wonder Woman"
Folks, I think it’s safe to say we're all big fans of Lynda Carter, the original TV Wonder Woman
STAFF PICKS:
“Children of the Sun” by Billy Thorpe
Wayne's staff pick keeps the prog rock fun continuing, with Billy Thorpe's space opera rock anthem. This was a timely hit during a period when interest in UFO's and extraterrestrials was peaking. Listen to this song with headphones to get the full effect.
“Fins” by Jimmy Buffett
Bruce's staff pick brings us to the Caribbean where Buffett tells the story of a bunch of guys hitting on the girls. “You've got fins to the left, fins to the right, and you're the only bait in town.”
“My Sharona” by The Knack
You can't cover 1979 properly without hitting this song. Rob shares this was Capital Record's fastest chart runner since The Beatles, and the top pop song from 1979. Lead vocalist Doug Feiger was dating a girl named Sharona, and the lyrics came to him in about 15 minutes.
“Get it Right Next Time” by Gerry Rafferty
Let the yacht rock roll. Brian highlights a smooth hit from the "Night Owl" album with a positive theme. And you can't go wrong with a sax!
“Last Train to London” by ELO
Doug Aiken's staff pick picks up a disco-leaning song from ELO's album "Discovery." Jeff Lynne sites the inspiration for this song as the number of trains the band had to take to and from London at the time.
INSTRUMENTAL TRACK:
“Rise” by Herb Alpert
This instrumental hit made Herb Alpert the only artist to have both a vocal and instrumental number 1 hit.
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**NOTE: What the Riff?!? does not own the rights to any of these songs and we neither sell, nor profit from them. We share them so you can learn about them and purchase them for your own collections.

His fourth studio album would move Bryan Adams from a successful singer-songwriter to super-stardom. The multi-platinum album, “Reckless” is packed with hits, as six of the ten tracks would hit the charts including the evergreen hit “Summer of 69.” Adams took some time off following his multi-year tour "Cuts Like a Knife," and that brief retreat would result in a burst of creativity that would result in many of this album's hits.
Friend of the show Vann Mathis joins us for this podcast.
“One Night Love Affair”
This track was the fifth single to hit the charts, and the title is pretty self-explanatory.
“Run to You”
This debut single from the album starts with a great guitar riff, and describes an ongoing affair, unlike the first track we profiled.
“Somebody”
This track was the second single off the album with a straightforward rock sound and a catchy chorus.
“Kids Wanna Rock”
We pick up the pace, leaving the love songs behind with this strong rock track. Even though not released as a single, it still made it to number 42 on the charts.
ENTERTAINMENT TRACK:
Theme from “A Nightmare on Elm Street”
The horror movie that would become a classic was released in November 1984.
STAFF PICKS:
“I Can't Drive 55” by Sammy Hagar
Hagar's protest song against the National Maximum Speed Law is enough to get your foot pressing a little heavier on the gas. Bruce explains it was inspired by a late night ticket for driving 62 in a 55 that Sammy Hagar received.
“Girls with Guns” by Tommy Shaw
Vann Mathis' staff pick is a fast paced throwback to the 80's from Styx alumnus Tommy Shaw. Styx band mate Dennis DeYoung was also doing solo work at the time. The video was filmed from one camera in a continuous take.
“Hello Again” by The Cars
Rob presents this fourth single from the album "Heartbeat City." The Cars were a huge hit on MTV, with well produced, awared winning videos. They balanced well between pop hooks and experimental new wave music.
“Turn Up The Radio” by Autograph
Wayne's staff pick is a mid-80's rock anthem. This is the lead single off the album "Sign in Please," and was their only top 40 hit. "Day in, day out, all week long, things go better with rock!"
“Sea of Love” by The Honeydrippers
Brian goes in a sentimental direction with Robert Plant's cover of Phil Phillips from Lake Charles, Louisiana. Phillips original version was a one-hit wonder in 1959. Paul Shaffer was on keyboards in The Honeydrippers.
LAUGH TRACK:
Ray Stevens - “The Mississippi Squirrel Revival”
Ray Stevens takes us out this week with his memories of what happened when a squirrel got loose in the church.
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NOTE: To adjust the loudness of the music or voices, you may adjust the balance on your device. VOICES are stronger in the LEFT channel, and MUSIC is stronger on the RIGHT channel.
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**NOTE: What the Riff?!? does not own the rights to any of these songs and we neither sell, nor profit from them. We share them so you can learn about them and purchase them for your own collections.

Undoubtedly the most influential electric guitarist of the rock era, Jimi Hendrix burst on the scene in the form of “The Jimi Hendrix Experience” with his debut album, “Are You Experienced.” The band was formed by Mitch Mitchell on drums and Noel Redding on bass, but the centerpiece was Jimi Hendrix on lead and lead guitar. Creative with the distortion, fuzz, and other guitar effects, Hendrix played left-handed, played a light string, and tuned his guitar down a half step, giving him even more power and range with his playing. Hendrix would sadly live only a little over 3 years after the release of this album, but his influence echoes through the decades of rock music.
Friend of the show Vann Mathis joins us for this podcast.
Foxy Lady
The third single issued in the U.S. only peaked a number 67 on the Billboard hot 100, and is now a well known staple of the Hendrix repertoire. This song contains "the Hendrix chord," a dominant 7th sharp 9th.
Manic Depression
This jazzy track with a triplet beat describes a challenging romantic experience.
Third Stone from the Sun
This longer and deeper cut has a science fiction motif. It chronicles an alien encounter with the planet Earth. The aliens determine that the only intelligent life on the planet are the chickens.
Purple Haze
The second single from the album was the first single written by Hendrix. Rolling Stone ranks this song as number 2 on "the greatest guitar songs of all time," behind only Chuck Berry's "Johnny B. Goode"
ENTERTAINMENT TRACK:
“A Guide for the Married Man” by the Turtles
This is the title track from the comedy film "A Guide for the Married Man."
STAFF PICKS:
“At the Zoo” by Simon and Garfunkel
Rob's staff pick was originally written for "The Graduate" but was cut from the movie, and it was subsequently used on a studio album. Multiple zoos have used this song in their advertising.
“Mirage” by Tommy James and The Shondells
Brian shares that the producer of the track "I think we're alone now," accidentally played it backwards, and the band decided to make the resulting melody into a song in its own right.
“Ain't Nothing But a House Party” by The Showstoppers
Wayne's staff pick highlights the sound known as the “Philadelphia Soul.”
“A Little Bit Me, A Little Bit You” by The Monkees
Vann Mathis makes a staff pick written by Neil Diamond. This is the first Monkees release featuring Davy Jones on lead, which was controversial...because the rest of the band wasn't consulted about it.
“Friday on My Mind” by The Easybeats
Bruce's staff pick was a part of the 96 Rock “5 o'clock whistle.” Who remembers that? Interestingly, the song takes a minor key when referencing the weekday, and turns to a major key when it gets to Friday.
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NOTE: To adjust the loudness of the music or voices, you may adjust the balance on your device. VOICES are stronger in the LEFT channel, and MUSIC is stronger on the RIGHT channel.
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**NOTE: What the Riff?!? does not own the rights to any of these songs and we neither sell, nor profit from them. We share them so you can learn about them and purchase them for your own collections.

With this debut album Thomas Dolby merged a synth-driven electronica sound with the new wave sensibility cresting on the airwaves in the early 80's. The Golden Age of Wireless would follow a loose theme of radio and communication in its tracks. Thomas Morgan Robertson's affinity for keyboards, tapes, and electronics earned him the nickname "Dolby" from his friends, and he stuck with it for a stage name after a few legal documents from the Dolby Corporation. This debut album did well on both sides of the Atlantic, and several songs would become staples of both radio and video during this time. So, let's step into this phenomenal new wave album - “it's poetry in motion!”
“She Blinded Me with Science”
Interestingly, this hit song from the album wasn't actually on the album in it's first US release, but was placed there on the second release. Dolby pitched the video on a storyboard before the song was written.
“One of Our Submarines”
This eerie track was the "B" side to She Blinded Me with Science. Dolby had an uncle who died on a submarine in World War II.
“Airwaves”
There were multiple versions of this song, this version being more keyboard-driven. Dolby did much of the instrumental work on this album, but also had a number of guest musicians as well.
“Europa and the Pirate Twins”
In the story, Europa was a girl from Dolby’s childhood who had to move. They swore that they would be "the pirate twins" forever, but that would not happen after she became famous.
Fun fact: Thomas Dolby was the keyboard player behind Foreigner's "Urgent."
ENTERTAINMENT TRACK:
“Theme from WKRP in Cincinnati”
This TV series would finish its run in 1982.
STAFF PICKS:
“Harden my Heart” by QuarterFlash
The lead singer, Rindy Ross, also plays the saxophone. Her husband, Marv Ross, plays guitar in the band. The band still plays from time to time, and is now based in Portland, OR.
“Do You Believe in Love” by Huey Lewis and the News
Bruce's staff pick highlights the first top 10 hit by what would be a mainstay group of the 80's. The video maintains a humorous edge with the band singing in a girl's bedroom. There are great harmonies in this hit.
“Don’t You Want Me Baby?” by The Human League
"You were working as a waitress in a cocktail bar when I met you." Brian's staff pick isn't a love song, but a power struggle. This was one of many songs propelled up the charts by the influence of MTV.
“Genius of Love” by the Tom Tom Club
This dance-oriented song is the only top 10 hit by The Tom Tom Club. Rob shares that this group is a husband and wife team who were originally members of The Talking Heads. They recorded this song while on hiatus from the more famous group.
INSTRUMENTAL TRACK:
“DNA” by The Flock of Seagulls
We close out this episode with an instrumental cut from the band best known for the song "I Ran."
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NOTE: To adjust the loudness of the music or voices, you may adjust the balance on your device. VOICES are stronger in the LEFT channel, and MUSIC is stronger on the RIGHT channel.
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**NOTE: What the Riff?!? does not own the rights to any of these songs and we neither sell, nor profit from them. We share them so you can learn about them and purchase them for your own collections.

Especially for You is the debut full-length album from “The Smithereens.” This platinum-selling album was almost a "greatest hits" because the New Jersey band had been playing for 5 years before releasing this album. The Smithereens filled a void in the mid-80's pop scene that would become categorized as Alternative Rock or College Rock, and there are a number of hits from the group that hold up well today. In retrospect, the album is just solid, straightforward rock-and-roll.
Friend of the show Doug Aiken joins us for this, Episode 57 of our What the Riff podcast as we musically travel back to the mid-80's.
Mr. Eliminator
This instrumental song wasn't on the album, but was a bonus track on the CD and was on the B-side to "Blood and Roses." It was completed in one take.
Groovy Tuesday
This co-written song was inspired by "The Who Sell Out." The initial title of the album was going to be "Groovy Tuesday."
Behind a Wall of Sleep
This track is a "crush song," about a girl in another band in the area.
Blood & Roses
This is one of the big hits from the album. The bass line was inspired from a riff heard while passing by the club. The lyrics are a poetic tribute to a woman who committed suicide.
ENTERTAINMENT TRACK:
“Oh Yeah!” by Yellow
Bueller? Bueller? This became a classic after appearing on the film “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off”
STAFF PICKS:
“Hyperactive” by Robert Palmer
This was the follow-up to "Addicted to Love" and remained in the charts for about 12 weeks. Rob shares that shortly after this album Palmer formed The Power Station with members of Duran Duran.
“Suzanne” by Journey
Brian brings one of the hits off "Raised on Radio." It was one of three to hit the top 40 from the album. The follow-up to "Frontiers" would be the last Journey album with Steve Perry. Randy Jackson played bass on the tour.
“Something About You” by Level 42
Bruce's staff pick is the only top 10 hit by the group in the US. There are surprisingly complex lyrics for a pop song "drawn into the stream of undefined illusion, those diamond dreams, they can't disguise the truth that there was something about you."
“Locked In” by Judas Priest
Doug Aiken's pick takes the intensity up a notch...or three. The album "Turbo" from which the track comes was promoted using spoofs of commercials from the day.
“Home” Public Image Limited
Wayne's pick keeps the intensity up, but from a more punk genre than heavy metal. Johnny Rotten from the Sex Pistols is the lead singer of this group, Ginger Baker from Cream is the drummer, and Steve Vai is on guitar.
INSTRUMENTAL TRACK:
“Chase the Ace” by AC/DC
We exit the podcast with this instrumental from the heavy metal stars from down under.
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NOTE: To adjust the loudness of the music or voices, you may adjust the balance on your device. VOICES are stronger in the LEFT channel, and MUSIC is stronger on the RIGHT channel.
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**NOTE: What the Riff?!? does not own the rights to any of these songs and we neither sell, nor profit from them. We share them so you can learn about them and purchase them for your own collections.

With his third studio album, the creative and unlikely rock star Elvis Costello took a turn from the punk style of his previous album and moved towards new wave music. Armed Forces was also the first album to name The Attractions as a part of the rock group fronted by Costello. Many of the tracks on this album reference British imperialism. Elvis Costello has a way of creating an upbeat sound while weaving in poignant, even depressing lyrics. This is a difficult artist to pin down. He follows his own muse, but finds a way to remain popular over the decades. Join us as we profile this breakthrough album from the end of the 70's decade.
Moods for Modern
The management company came up with the stage name Elvis Costello for Declan McManus. This song is about letting a girl go. "I let you into foreign fingers."
Oliver's Army
This track had a video which was aired on the first day of MTV's broadcast. The lyrics of this protest song are based off a trip that Costello took to Ireland. The Oliver referenced in the title is Oliver Cromwell.
Accidents Will Happen
This song would be considered the hit off the album, and references Costello's first marriage and the seductiveness of the rock life and an affair on the road.
(What's So Funny 'Bout) Peace, Love, and Understanding
A rare cover song was written by Nick Lowe, who also produced the album. Costello supposedly used the pseudonym "Napoleon Dynamite" in 1982.
ENTERTAINMENT TRACK:
Theme from "The Dukes of Hazzard" by Waylon Jennings
This TV show was particularly popular in Georgia, despite the fact that there is no Hazzard County in Georgia.
STAFF PICKS:
”Hold the Line“ by Toto
Bruce's staff pick highlights the iconic piano riff from the hit off Toto's debut album. The drum licks channel a "Sly and the Family Stone" groove.
“Blue Morning, Blue Day” by Foreigner
Rob chose this hit featuring Lou Graham's distinctive vocals with a well-balanced instrumental riff in a minor key. "But honey don't telephone, 'cause I won't be alone, I'll need someone to make me feel better."
“Take Me To the River” by the Talking Heads
Brian returns to the new wave theme. David Byrne fronts this New York City band covering a song originally written by Rev. Al Green. It was also covered by Bryan Ferry and Foghat.
“Can't Keep a Good Man Down” by Eddie Money
A driving deeper cut from "the money man" off his second album ends our staff picks with Wayne. Though not as popular as many tracks from his debut album, this song has a positive feel to it.
INSTRUMENTAL COMEDY TRACK:
“I Will Survive” by Gloria Gaynor
Bruce "calls an audible" for this week's concluding track...how, we’ll never know...
Thanks for listening to “What the Riff?!?”
NOTE: To adjust the loudness of the music or voices, you may adjust the balance on your device. VOICES are stronger in the LEFT channel, and MUSIC is stronger on the RIGHT channel.
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**NOTE: What the Riff?!? does not own the rights to any of these songs and we neither sell, nor profit from them. We share them so you can learn about them and purchase them for your own collections.

The Seekers were an Australian folk pop quartet, the first Australian group to see significant success in the U.K. and the U.S. The Seekers were voted "Australians of the Year" in 1967. Judith Durham joined what was originally an all-male quartet, and their style was hard to define - too pop to be folk, too folk to be pop. That didn't keep them from achieving success, as they were the first Australian group to reach number 1 in the UK with a debut record - a feat that neither The Beatles nor The Rolling Stones achieved. We hope you enjoy this "proto-rock" hit from the 60's.
I'll Never Find Another You
"I could search the whole world over until my life is through, but I know I'll never find another you."
A World of Our Own
Upbeat and uplifting, this track discusses leaving the rest of the world behind. "And I know you will find they'll be peace of mind when we live in a world of our own."
The Carnival is Over
This is an adaptation of a Russian folk song, and is one of the top 50 best selling singles in the UK.
Georgy Girl
This well known track is from the movie of the same name, and was named for an academy award. Judith considered this song somewhat autobiographical.
ENTERTAINMENT TRACK:
Theme from "The Odd Couple"
This 1965 Broadway play became a film in 1968, on its way to becoming a TV series in 1970.
STAFF PICKS:
“Good Times” by the Easy Beats
Another Australian band is featured as Wayne's staff pick. This party song has been covered by a number of groups.
“Stormy” by Classics IV
Bruce found a connection here he likes! This band started out in Jacksonville, Florida and moved to Atlanta. Guitarist JR Cobb would join the Atlanta Rhythm Section later on, who would cover another Classics IV tune.
“Elenore” by The Turtles
Rob shares that the opening sounds like Three Dog Night's "One is the Loneliest Number," which would come out a year later. This was intended to be a parody of their hit "Happy Together," but the song actually worked. "Your my pride an joy, etc."
“Gentle on My Mind” by Glen Campbell
Brian wraps it up with this multi-song artist. John Hartford wrote this song, which became the flagship song for Glen Campbell. Hartford was inspired by the film "Dr. Zhivago," and wrote the song in about 15 minutes. It won 4 Grammy awards in 1968.
INSTRUMENTAL:
“Wonderwall To Be Here” by George Harrison
This instrumental was on the soundtrack from the film "Wonderwall." It is Harrison's first solo effort, and also the first solo effort from any of The Beatles.
Thanks for listening to “What the Riff?!?”
NOTE: To adjust the loudness of the music or voices, you may adjust the balance on your device. VOICES are stronger in the LEFT channel, and MUSIC is stronger on the RIGHT channel.
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**NOTE: What the Riff?!? does not own the rights to any of these songs and we neither sell, nor profit from them. We share them so you can learn about them and purchase them for your own collections.

Sometimes classified as alternative rock or new wave, London band The Godfathers has a British punk feel to it with their stark lyrics and cynical style — one that Wayne loves and appreciates! Peter and Chris Coyne formed this five piece group, and dressed in mafia-style suits with skinny ties. When they toured the United States, Living Colour was their opening act. Their sound is "brass knuckles punches," and "body slamming production." Join us on this journey as we explore Birth, School, Work, Death​ - a rough and tumble yet melodic album.
S.T.B.
This song was the first one that Wayne thought really rocked.
Cause I Said So
How many of us heard this phrase when we were young? You sense the angst of their working class background. Lots of their songs have a "worst case scenario" feel to it.
If I Only Had Time
This is Wayne's favorite Godfather's song. "If I only had time, I would come up with the perfect crime." Front man Peter Coyne was in six of the seven "Harry Potter" movies.
Birth, School, Work, Death
This title track is definitely the hit off the album. This describes life as it is - though perhaps quite summarized. The video to this song received considerable airplay on MTV at the time.
ENTERTAINMENT TRACK:
“Pump Up the Volume” by M.A.R.S.S.
This song was a track off the Michael J. Fox movies "Bright Lights, Big City."
STAFF PICKS:
“Electric Blue” by Icehouse
Rob digs this song by Australian synth-pop band Icehouse that was actually co-written by John Oates, giving it a definite "Hall & Oates" feel. The video features a prominent mullet and Paris Jefferson, best known as Xena, Warrior Princess.
“Shattered Dreams” by Johnny Hates Jazz
Bruce's staff pick features some minor key angst. Interestingly, the group was discovered while performing in a jazz club. The video was produced by David Fincher of "Fight Club" fame.
“Kiss Me Deadly” by Lita Ford
Brian's rocking staff pick features the queen of heavy metal/glam rock. Sharon Osbourne produced the album.
“Only A Memory” by The Smithereens
Continuing the angst theme, this great break up song was released in April. "I search the room but you're not there, your perfume lingers everywhere."
COMEDY TRACK:
“Eat It ” by "Weird Al" Yankovic
Although this spoof was originally released in 1984, it also appeared on Yankovic's Greatest Hits album, released in 1988.
Thanks for listening to “What the Riff?!?”
NOTE: To adjust the loudness of the music or voices, you may adjust the balance on your device. VOICES are stronger in the LEFT channel, and MUSIC is stronger on the RIGHT channel.
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**NOTE: What the Riff?!? does not own the rights to any of these songs and we neither sell, nor profit from them. We share them so you can learn about them and purchase them for your own collections.

This will be a familiar band to those of us who grew up in metro-Atlanta in the 80's, and will be a treat to the rest. The Producers got national airplay in the 80's with their new wave, high energy sound. Both this debut album and their follow-up "You Make the Heat" were big, and they probably hit the height of their popularity when they headlined MTV's New Year's Rockin' Eve party in 1982. The Producers (Van Temple, Kyle Henderson, Bryan Holmes, and Wayne Famous) are still playing — so make a point of seeing them live when they play nearby. We hope you enjoy this fantastic album and group.
“What's He Got?”
This track tells about a girl running after a guy with money, and was one of the hits from this debut album.
“I Love Lucy (she don't care)”
“This story has no mystery. There is no hope for jerks like me." A number of tracks from the album have that "I'm a loser" theme that is often heard in alternative rock tracks.
“Who Do You Think You Are?”
“Hey! man, I'm aware of your position. Hey! man, luck has made you the man in charge.”
Wayne Famous was well known for his dancing on stage, and for playing the synthesizer slung over his neck like a guitar.
“What She Does to Me”
This track is also known as "The Diana Song." because of the bridge. This is the biggest hit from the album, peaking at number 63 in July of 1981.
ENTERTAINMENT TRACK:
“Flash Gordon Theme” by Queen
Queen did the music for this sci-fi movie, and this song was moving up the charts in March of 1981.
STAFF PICKS:
“Treat Me Right” by Pat Benatar
Brian's staff pick showcases one of the hits from 1980's "Crimes of Passion" album. Nick Giraldo is a great (and underrated) guitarist on this track.
“Hey Nineteen” by Steely Dan
One of Rob’s favorites, Steely Dan had tremendous success at this time. This track from the album "Gaucho" discusses a relationship with a much younger woman. Walter Becker and Donald Fagen used 42 different musicians in the making of this album.
“I have the Skill” by The Sherbs
Wayne brings something a little less known. This group, formerly known as Sherbet was one of Australia's most popular acts at the time. This is their highest charting hit in the U.S., but got no tracking in their native Australia.
”Romeo and Juliet” by Dire Straits
Mark Knopfler and company bring us Bruce's staff pick. This track makes reference to West Side Story and of course Shakespeare. Knopfler wrote this song thinking about his own romance with Holly Vincent.
INSTRUMENTAL TRACK:
“Ides of March” by Iron Maiden
Wayne brings the rock cred up a notch with this instrumental metal piece.
Thanks for listening to “What the Riff?!?”
NOTE: To adjust the loudness of the music or voices, you may adjust the balance on your device. VOICES are stronger in the LEFT channel, and MUSIC is stronger on the RIGHT channel.
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**NOTE: What the Riff?!? does not own the rights to any of these songs and we neither sell, nor profit from them. We share them so you can learn about them and purchase them for your own collections.

Folks, it's amazing to realize that the What The Riff podcast has been around for a year! To celebrate, we're focusing this Memorial Day week on rock-and-roll songs of summer. Our memories of summers past have always been tied to the music of the time, and we suspect that is the same for you as well. Whether cruising with the top down, hanging out with friends, or playing your boom box on the beach or at the pool, the right song will “take you back” and the memories come flooding through. We hope you enjoy this special rabbit hole edition as we look at summer songs that rock!
“Summertime, Summertime” by the Jamies
We go back a little earlier than typical with this song from 1958. It has a "sacred harp" sound, and its introductory riff has been covered multiple times.
“Dancing in the Street”
by Martha Reeves & the Vandellas
by David Bowie & Mick Jagger
by Van Halen
Here is a fine example of a song that has been covered multiple times in a number of styles. The consensus of the What The Riff?!? guys is that the Van Halen version is the best. What do you think?
Surfin' U.S.A. by the Beach Boys
Perhaps the group most identified with summer in the 60's. You can't do a summer rock episode without having The Beach Boys make an appearance.
“Wipe Out” by The Surfaris
The most famous instrumental surfing song. What a distinctive percussion and guitar riff!
“In the Summertime” by Mungo Jerry
We make our way into 1970 with this easy-going groovey track.
“Summer in the City” by The Lovin' Spoonful
What an awesome line: "Hotter than a matchhead." This song drifts back to a psychedelic 1966, and reminds us of the pre-air conditioning days of summer in the South.
“School's Out” by Alice Cooper
Everyone remembers this anthem playing at the end of school, marking the start of summer.
“Rockaway Beach” by The Ramones
Here is a punk genre summer song from the 70's. This one hearkens to the surfing songs of the 60's.
“Summertime Blues”
by Eddie Cochran
by The Who
by Rush
Here's another example of an original with multiple covers, from 1958 to 1976 to 2004. Were you even aware RUSH did this cover?
“Margaritaville ” by Jimmy Buffett
This 1977 classic is a mandatory summer song, and brings up the drinks of summer.
“Summer Nights” by John Travolta & Olivia Newton-John
While this tune is not exactly a rock song, it was a huge summer classic from the 70's, and we did not feel right leaving it out! ... but we don’t listen to the whole thing...
“Suddenly Last Summer” by The Motels
Drifting into the 80's, The Motels lead off a set of summer songs with female leads. There's a wistfulness with this track we’re all digging.
“Cruel Summer” by Bananarama
Bananarama had a string of hits in the 80's, including this summer song in a minor key.
“Walking on Sunshine” by Katrina & The Waves
And we switch to a 1985 hit that is more upbeat and positive. This was the biggest hit for Katrina and the Waves, almost (but not quite) their "one hit wonder.“
“Holiday Road” by Lindsey Buckingham
This 1983 hit was made famous by “National Lampoon's Vacation” movies, and appeared in subsequent movies in the series. To us, it sounds a little bit like Kenny Loggins, maybe.
“Mas Tequila” by Sammy Hagar
We step outside our normal chronology with this track from 1999. But it just FEELS like summer.
“Blister in the Sun” by the Violent Femmes
A 1983 track, this one is a more alternative rock summer song with a distinctive guitar riff.
“Miserlou” by Dick Dale
We finish off this rabbit hole episode with an instrumental from the King of the Surf Guitar, and from the movie "Pulp Fiction."
Thanks for listening to “What the Riff?!?”
NOTE: To adjust the loudness of the music or voices, you may adjust the balance on your device. VOICES are stronger in the LEFT channel, and MUSIC is stronger on the RIGHT channel.
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**NOTE: What the Riff?!? does not own the rights to any of these songs and we neither sell, nor profit from them. We share them so you can learn about them and purchase them for your own collections.

When you think of college alternative rock of the 80's, the group you are most likely to have in your head is The Smiths. Their third studio album, “The Queen Is Dead,” continues their brand of Manchester Brit-pop, decidedly pessimistic, but with accessible muscial hooks. The Smiths’ sound is largely due to the collaboration between front man Morrissey and guitarist Johnny Marr - sophisticated, critical, and downright depressing. Still this influential group has had a staying power beyond their contemporaries. Tim Andrews brings us this complex and bleak album as he guest-hosts this week's episode.
The Queen Is Dead
This anti-royalty track criticizes the royal family and the continual media frenzy around them. Morrissey considered royalty to be "a hideous joke."
Frankly, Mr. Shankly
This track describes a letter written by an unhappy worker to his tyrannical boss.
I Know It's Over
This emotional ballad depicts a man at the end of a bleak life. "I know it's over - still I cling, I don't know where else I can go."
There Is a Light That Never Goes Out
This is a better known track from the album. The music sounds upbeat until you catch the lyrics: "And if a double-decker bus crashes into us, to die by your side is such a heavenly way to die."
STAFF PICKS:
Billy Joel - Big Man on Mulberry Street
Bruce's staff pick highlights a jazzy deep cut from Joel's album "The Bridge." This song made an appearance as the music behind a dream sequence from the TV show "Moonlighting."
Van Halen - Dreams
This synthesizer-heavy hit from the Sammy Hagar era of Van Halen is off "5150," the first Van Halen album with Hagar as frontman. Rob loves the irony that “ 5150” is the California Welfare and Institutions code for an insane person.
GTR - When the Heart Rules the Mind
Brian brings this supergroup featuring Yes guitarist Steve Howe and Genesis guitarist Steve Hackett. GTR only had this single album, and this track was their biggest hit.
David Lee Roth - Yankee Rose
Wayne reminds us that both Van Halen and David Lee Roth had hits at this time. Steve Vai was Roth's guitarist on this song. Although you might think this was another song about girls, this song is actually about the Statue of Liberty on which refurbishment was completed at the time.
The Fixx - Secret Separation
Tim's staff pick features the UK band famous for their earlier album "Reach the Beach." This later hit has great harmonies
INSTRUMENTAL TRACK:
REM - The White Tornado
This instrumental off the collection album "Dead Letter Office" closes out our podcast for the week.
Thanks for listening to “What the Riff?!?”
NOTE: To adjust the loudness of the music or voices, you may adjust the balance on your device. VOICES are stronger in the LEFT channel, and MUSIC is stronger on the RIGHT channel.
Please follow us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/whattheriffpodcast/, and message or email us with what you'd like to hear, what you think of the show, and any rock-worthy memes we can share.
Of course we'd love for you to rate the show in your podcast platform!
**NOTE: What the Riff?!? does not own the rights to any of these songs and we neither sell, nor profit from them. We share them so you can learn about them and purchase them for your own collections.