What the Riff Next Gen

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: 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...
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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.

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.
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.
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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.
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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 presents the second album by The Byrds as they continued their folk rock mix of vocal and twelve-string guitar harmonies originally explored in their debut album released earlier in the year. There are two songs from Bob Dylan - "The Times They Are A-Changin' and "Lay Down Your Weary Tune" - along with a number of other covers.
Join us as we explore the album Turn! Turn! Turn! as well as the famous title track and several other excellent songs from The Byrds.
“Oh! Susannah”
This Stephen Foster cover was originally intended as a joke, but they received a positive reception regardless. There aren't too many songs originally written over 100 years prior.
“Set You Free this Time”
This track features the 12-string Rickenbacker guitar, common in many of the songs from The Byrds, and has a San Francisco feel. The Byrds were originally from Los Angeles.
“It Won't Be Wrong”
This brief track showcases the vocal harmonies of The Byrds, reminiscent of The Mamas and The Papas.
“Turn, Turn, Turn”
The well-known title track was written by Pete Seeger and originated in the book of Ecclesiastes from the Bible. There was a guitar solo in this song, a rarity at the time. It is a reaction to the tumultuous times of the mid-60's. "A time for peace - I swear it's not too late."
ENTERTAINMENT TRACK:
“Christmastime Is Here” by Vince Guaraldi Trio
The first airing of "A Charlie Brown Christmas" occurred this year.
STAFF PICKS:
“Fever” by The McCoys
Originally recorded by Little Willie John and covered by lots of people, most famously by Peggy Lee, The McCoys were moving up the chart with this cover at the time. The McCoys featured Rick Derringer who would go on to play in the Edgar Winter and Johnny Winter bands.
“Seesaw” by Don Covay
Wayne's pick goes into the R&B genre. Aretha Franklin would chart even higher with her version of this Don Covay original. There is a great horn section in this track. "Your love is like a seesaw."
“Flowers on the Wall” by The Statler Brothers
Rob's pick goes into the country genre with this debut single. Check out that bass voice in the vocal harmony. The Statler Brothers were members of Johnny Cash's band at the time that this song was recorded. The name "Statler" came from a brand of tissue in their hotel.
“Let's Hang On” by The Four Seasons
Brian closes out Staff Picks with the distinctive high tenor that can only be Frankie Valli. He was recording both with The Four Seasons and his solo work at the time.
LAUGH TRACK:
“The Drinking Mans Diet” by Allen Sherman
Allen Sherman was a precursor to "Weird Al" Yankovic - a comedian who produced spoof songs like this track. "Drink, drink, everyone drink!"
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.

After stratospheric commercial success in the 1980's, Duran Duran had been on a downswing before releasing this seventh studio - and second self-titled - album. They would hit the top 5 once again with what became known as “The Wedding Album” due to the album artwork showing wedding pictures from the band members' parents. This album was a comeback and reinvention of the group for the 90's. It has a wide variety of sounds and tempos, but maintains the distinctive harmonies for which Duran Duran was known. Join us a Rob takes us through this excellent album.
Too Much Information
This rocking track starts the album, and gives a sense of the information overload that was just beginning in 1993. While there was a sense of the old Duran Duran at times, The Wedding Album really serves as a reinvention of the group.
Love Voodoo
This is a more club/dance-oriented track in a minor key. Duran Duran became superstars on the strength of MTV as "new romantics."
Shelter
This has a James Bond feel, and is a good song to hear with headphones. It continues the dance feel with interesting percussion crashes and vocal effects. **
Ordinary World
This is the first single released from the album, and it hit number 1. Much slower than the dance oriented tracks, this shows some of the diversity of the album. The single was released several months in advance of the album.
ENTERTAINMENT TRACK:
Theme from “The Late Show with David Letterman”
March 1993 marks the start of David Letterman on CBS after being passed over for host of The Tonight Show on NBC in favor of Jay Leno.
STAFF PICKS:
“Blood and Thunder” by Ultra Vivid Scene
Wayne showcases a hidden gem with a southern rock feel. Kirk Ralske was the driving force behind this alternative rock band.
“Pride and Joy” by Coverdale Page
Bruce's pick highlights a rock/blues track by the supergroup formed by Whitesnake's David Coverdale and Led Zeppelin's Jimmy Page.
“Romeo” by Dolly Parton and Friends
Brian crosses over to the country genre with a supergroup including Mary Chapin Carpenter, Pam Tillis, Tanya Tucker, Kathy Mattea, and Billy Ray Cyrus.
“Two Princes” by The Spin Doctors
This song hit number 7 on the US tracks, and the highest international charting song for the group. The syncopated percussion was typical of 90's alternative rock. Believe it or not, the Spin Doctors performed a special version of this on Sesame Street.
COMEDY TRACK:
“Come to Butthead”
We finish off this session with a comedy song based on MTV's "Beavis and Butthead" cartoon created by Mike Judge. “SCHUTTUP BEEVITH!”
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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 their self-titled debut album, Boston burst onto the stage with a sound that would come to define classic rock - "the Boston sound." Although an instant hit (it was the second best selling debut album in US history), it took several years for the demo tape to be accepted by a record label, and then would require some evasion of the label's wishes for MIT graduate Tom Scholz to be able to create the full album in his basement studio instead of taking it to Los Angeles. Driven by Brad Delp's soaring tenor vocals and Tom Scholz' work on virtually everything else, this album is a must-have in any rock lover's catalog - and that's more than a feeling!
Foreplay/Long Time
The instrumental prelude "Foreplay" with its distinctive triplet pattern is one of the first songs written, dating back to 1969. "Long Time" features the switch between acoustic and electric guitar that would be one of several signature features of the Boston sound.
Peace of Mind
This is the third single from the album. Scholz was working at Polaroid as a design engineer when he was shopping this album, and this song reflects Scholz thoughts on corporate life.
Hitch a Ride
This mellow track has a little bit of a hippie feel, but maintains a positive vibe that you see in the tracks on this album. The production on this track is amazing.
Rock and Roll Band
While this track might sound autobiographical, it is actually the opposite - it took a long time and a lot of work for Boston to get accepted. The band had never played live when the song was written.
ENTERTAINMENT TRACK:
**Theme from "What's Happening" **
This TV show featured Dwayne, Raj, Dee, and Rerun. Hard to believe that Rerun was considered overweight by 1970s standards...
**STAFF PICKS:
**
“Last Child” by Aerosmith
Rob's staff pick features another band from Boston, Aerosmith. Steven Tyler and Brad Whitford wrote this track for the album "Rocks", and if you listen, it has a similar sound to David Bowie's "Fame."
“Devil Woman” by Cliff Richard
It may have come out in August, but this is definitely a Halloween song. Cliff Richard is considered the "English Elvis," selling over 250 million records in his career.
**“Afternoon Delight” by Starlight Vocal Band **
Brian's staff pick takes the tone down with this number 1 hit from the time. Starlight Vocal Band featured tight harmonies, and would parlay the song into a variety show, for which David Letterman would be a writer.
“Still the One” by Orleans
Bruce's staff pick also features close harmonies and a very positive take on long-term relationships. Joanna and John Hall wrote the song. Band co-founder John Hall would go on to be a congressman from New York.
***INSTRUMENTAL:
*
**
“Nadia's Theme” by Henry Mancini
This instrumental hit was inspired by Romanian gymnast Nadia Comanici's scoring the first "perfect 10" in the 1976 Summer Olympic games.
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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.

Folks, it's time to party! With their second studio album, Wild Planet, Athens-based band, The B-52's continued their new wave, high energy weirdness. Front man Fred Schneider's frequently spoken vocals and Kate Pierson and Cindy Wilson's harmonies give The B-52's a very distinctive sound — the beehive hairdo sported by Kate and Cindy gave the band its name. There's not a bad song on the entire album. We hope you enjoy this week's very upbeat installment of What the Riff!
Party Out of Bounds
This track starts the album with a high energy party song. The B-52's are clearly identified with fun, and they never took themselves too seriously.
Give Me Back My Man
Cindy Wilson takes the lead vocals on this track, which was the second single released from the album.
Private Idaho
This is the hit track from the album, and a staple of the party circuit from high school dances to college bars. "Don't be blind to the big surprise - swimming round and round like the deadly hand of a radium clock."
Strobe Light
A more risque song was the third single released from the album. The B-52's would take a hiatus in 1985 when band mate Ricky Williams died, but then, they came back better than ever.
ENTERTAINMENT TRACK:
Theme from "Xanadu" by Olivia Newton-John
No hit movie here, but Jeff Lynne of ELO partners with Newton-John on this hit song from 1980.
STAFF PICKS:
“In America” by the Charlie Daniels Band
Bruce shares this hit from CDB's "Full Moon" album, which channels the anger that a lot of Americans had over the Iran hostage crisis. Daniels saw this point as a revitalization of American patriotism.
**“Don't Misunderstand Me” by Rossington Collins Band **
Wayne brings some southern rock to us in his staff pick. The surviving members of Lynyrd Skynyrd after the tragic plane crash formed this band with a female lead (Dale Krantz). The band would stick around for two studio albums.
“Misunderstanding” by Genesis
This hit off the album “Duke” was written by Phil Collins, and was originally intended for Collins' solo album. Rob points out that if you listen, the song was clearly inspired by Toto's "Hold the Line" and The Beach Boys "Sail on Sailor."
“Don't Ask Me Why” by Billy Joel
Brian's staff pick is an all acoustic song from Billy Joel's album, “Glass Houses.” Joel would win his first Grammy for this album. "You are still a victim of the accidents you leave as sure as I'm a victim of desire." The piano solo consists of 15 overdubbed pianos!
INSTRUMENTAL TRACK:
“Star Wars-The Empire Strikes Back Medley” by MECO
We finish off with a disco-esque medley based on the popular Star Wars saga. Remember this age of album medleys?
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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.

Almost everyone is familiar with Janis Joplin as a fixture sound of the late 60's, but some may not know that she got her San Francisco start with Big Brother and the Holding Company on their self-titled debut album in 1967. Joplin was ostracized in high school, and you can get a sense of her as a lonely soul through her singing. She joined Big Brother and the Holding Company in 1966, which was an established band at the time. Joplin would move on to become a superstar soon, but this gives you a taste of her early work.
Cuckoo
This minor key track is about a gold digger, and features Joplin's unmistakable voice prominently.
Big Brother and the Holding Company - Call on Me "I need you, darling, like the fish needs the sea, don't take your sweet, sweet love from me."
Intruder
Janis Joplin wrote this song, and it has a more psychedelic sound. Joplin was inspired by Otis Redding's style.
Down on Me
This blues track is the big song off the album, though it wasn't a top 40 hit. It talks about how the world is "down on me."
ENTERTAINMENT TRACK:
“Foggy Mountain Breakdown” by Flatt & Scruggs
This bluegrass song is from the movie "Bonnie and Clyde" which was in the theater at the time.
STAFF PICKS:
“Windy” by The Association
Brian's staff pick was a feature of AM radio at the time. This is about a fictional character dreamed up by folk singer-songwriter Ruthann Friedman. The Association was also a staple of television variety shows.
**“I Thank the Lord for the Night Time” by Neil Diamond **
Rob's pick by this well-known artist considered this song "as close as this white Jewish kid from Brooklyn could come to being a Gospel singer!"
“Heroes and Villains” by The Beach Boys
This song that Bruce brought was originally intended to be the centerpiece of the epic and unreleased album “Smile.” It appeared as the opening song to the substitute album “Smiley Smile.”
“I Happen to Love You” by The Electric Prunes
Wayne's deep cut staff pick reflects the psychedelic nature of the time. It reflects the nervousness associated with a passionate love affair. Carole King was a co-writer on this song.
**“The Ballad of Bilbo Baggins” by Leonard Nimoy **
A cult classic from the original actor playing Star Trek's "Mr. Spock" finishes out this week's podcast. It played on the popularity of both Star Trek and Tolkien's works.
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.

ALBUM SPOTLIGHT:
Elton John — Goodbye Yellow Brick Road”
September, 1973
Elton John's seventh studio release is considered his best by many. The double album Goodbye Yellow Brick Road contains many well known hits including the title track, the Marilyn Monroe-inspired “Candle in the Wind,” and the 11-minute epic “Funeral For a Friend/Love Lies Bleeding.” Elton John initially intended to record this album in Jamaica, but political instability and the upcoming Frazier/Foreman boxing match caused the production to be moved to Chateau d'Herouville in France.
Friend of the Show John Lynch returns to help us showcase this monster rock album from 1973.
All the Girls Love Alice
This deeper cut in a minor key deals with prostitution and lesbianism. Tempo changes between the verses and chorus with a groovy fuzzy guitar distortion give this track its distinctive sound. Liberty music was originally trying to get John and writer/partner Bernie Taupin to write songs for other artists, but they decided to write it for themselves.
**Saturday Night's Alright for Fighting **
This well-known track was inspired by Taupin's experience in local pubs as a lad — it was banned on a number of radio stations because of fears that it would inspire violence. At age 15, Elton John was actually playing in pubs.
Goodbye Yellow Brick Road
The title track hearkens to a simpler childhood time, removed from celebrity and high society. Reginald Kenneth Dwight would change his name to Elton John inspired by two blues players he liked.
Grey Seal
Another deeper track from the album is driven by piano riffs and interesting key and tempo changes. If you don't understand the lyrics to this song, you're in good company - Elton John doesn't understand the lyrics either!
ENTERTAINMENT TRACK:
**Super Friends Theme Song **
This staple of Saturday morning cartoons featured DC superheroes...“Meanwhile, back in the Halls of Justice...”
STAFF PICKS:
**Looking Glass - “Jimmy Love Mary-Anne” **
Wayne brings us the yacht rock this week. If you think this sounds like "Brandy," there's a reason for it. This is their follow-up top-40 hit. Story songs like this were popular in the early '70's.
**The Edgar Winter Group - “Free Ride” **
Bruce's staff pick brings the boogie from the debut album from The Edgar Winter Group. Ronnie Montrose and Rick Derringer were also on this album.
Jim Croce - Bad Bad Leroy Brown
Special Guest Host stepping in for Brian, John Lynch introduces another storytelling song with amazing lyrics like, "badder than old King Kong, and meaner than a junkyard dog." Unfortunately, Croce would die in a plane crash in this month.
Chicago - Just You 'n' Me
Rob takes the tempo down with a horn-driven hit. This was the second single released from "Chicago VI." The song was inspired by an argument that trombone player James Pankow had with his girlfriend - shortly thereafter his wife.
LAUGH TRACK:
**Bobby "Boris" Pickett and the Crypt Kickers - Monster Mash​ **
Ahead of Halloween 1973, this song was moving up the charts. Originally released in 1962, the song was re-released in 1973.
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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.