What the Riff Next Gen

Rock legend Neil Peart passed on January 7th 2020 after a battle with brain cancer. Peart affected all of us in a significant way through his work as percussionist and lyricist for the rock band Rush, and we wanted to take a moment to say what his life and work meant to us as we play three songs - “Fly By Night” (from Peart's first album with the band), “The Spirit of Radio” (a great example of both his expertise on drums and his quality of lyrics), and “Closer to the Heart” (a hope-filled tribute). Our thoughts and prayers go out to Peart's family and friends. Rest in Peace, and thank you for making invisible airwaves crackle with life during your time on this earth.Thanks for listening to “What the Riff?!?” 
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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.

It is unusual for a band's debut album to be a serious hit, but Appetite for Destruction was such a success that it catapulted Guns N' Roses to celebrity status seemingly overnight. The emphasis is on “seemingly,” because it would actually take several months to catch on. Seven months after the album was released it had only sold 200,000 albums. MTV wouldn't play GNR because of their overt focus on sex and drugs. They finally were played on an episode of “Headbangers Ball” at 4:00 a.m. on the East Coast. That was all it took for the band to see the turnaround.
Paul Stanley of Kiss met the band prior to their being signed, and described them as “a bunch of wastoids.” He was surprised at the energy the band displayed when on stage that night, however.
With a straightforward focus on sex, drugs, and Rock and Roll, Appetite for Destruction featured Slash on guitar and Axl Rose on lead vocals. Other band members on this album were Izzy Stradlin on guitar, percussion, and backing vocals, Duff McKagan on bass, and Steven Adler on drums.
Steve Hardin joins us once again as guest host to present this album in Brian's absence.
Welcome to the Jungle
This is one of two big hits off the album, and reflects the thoughts of the band on life in Hollywood, and the big city where anything goes. This is the song that was played at 4:00 a.m. on MTV, touching off the album's meteoric rise after lackluster sales for the previous months.
Nightrain
This is one of the early songs from the band, complete with cowbell! The name supposedly comes from “Night Train Express,” a fortified flavored wine.
Mr. Brownstone
Izzy Stradlin originated this song, with the rest of the band adding on. It tells of a descent into heroin addiction. The subject of the song starts getting up at a regular time, and by the end of the lyrics is “getting up whenever.”
Sweet Child of Mine
This is the other big hit off the album, and was popular on both pop and rock stations. Axl Rose wrote the words inspired by his girlfriend at the time, Erin Everly.
ENTERTAINMENT TRACK:
“La Bamba” by Ritchie Valens
The docudrama telling of the life of Ritchie Valens was released this month in 1987.
 
STAFF PICKS:
“Kiss Him Goodbye” by The Nylons
Bruce's staff pick features a Canadian a cappella quartet covering Paul Leka, Gary DeCarlo, and Dale Frashuer's 60's hit "Na Na Hey Hey Kiss Him Goodbye." This song is a standard of sports events since being used by the White Sox in 1977.
“Lips Like Sugar” by Echo and the Bunnymen
Wayne brings us into the college rock genre with this alt-rock crossover from this group from Liverpool. Echo and the Bunnymen formed in 1978 and are still touring and producing records today. While never a top 40 hit, “Lips Like Sugar” was a staple of college radio.
“Jane's Getting Serious” by Jon Astley
Rob's staff pick continues the alt-rock theme. Jon Astley was a record producer, producing albums for The Who, Corey Hart, and Blondie, among others. This song only reached number 77, so Jon Astley is technically a “no hit wonder.” It was used in a catsup commercial, though!
“Back to Paradise” by 38 Special
Steve Hardin features a song from "Revenge of the Nerds II: Nerds In Paradise." The song is on a 38 Special Greatest Hits album, but never made it onto any of their studio albums.
 
INSTRUMENTAL TRACK:
“Fractured Too” by Ace Frehley
This week's instrumental song is from the Kiss alumnus' solo album “Frehley's Comet.”
Thanks for listening to “What the Riff?!?”
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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.

Heart hailed from and played in the Seattle area, but recorded this debut single in Vancouver, Canada. Dreamboat Annie appeared in Canada in the summer of 1975 and debuted in America on Valentine's Day 1976. In a male-oriented rock world the unusual sound of a female-fronted rock ensemble would both draw appeal and create friction that would drive a wedge between the group and their original Mushroom Studios label and propel them on to further success. Heart would go on to be almost a celebrity group in the MTV age of the 80's, but chafed against the insulting sexuality that the video producer's preferred.
Ann Wilson is the lead singer and her sister Nancy is on guitar.
 
Magic Man
The synth-driven track would be their second single released in both the U.S. and Canada, following different first singles in both countries. This song is about Mike Fisher, Ann's boyfriend at the time, and is somewhat autobiographical.
Crazy On You
This track would be the first single released in the U.S. Nancy's guitar work serves as a prelude to the song. This song is also about Mike Fisher, and about a culture that appeared to be falling apart with the Vietnam War, gas shortages, and other crises of the 70's. Nancy references the Moody Blues as an inspiration for this song.
Soul of the Sea
This deep track is a softer, peaceful sound, again led by Nancy Wilson's guitar. It has a prog rock feel in multiple movements.
Dreamboat Annie
The album's title track is a less rock oriented and more acoustic and harmonic feel. It was released in four cuts - an acoustic version, the album version, a reprise, and a sequel. It hit number 17 on the adult contemporary chart.
 
ENTERTAINMENT TRACK:
Theme from the television series S.W.A.T. by Rhythm Heritage
A radio charting track with a funky beat announced the start of the late night cop show.
STAFF PICKS:
“December 1963 (Oh, What a Night)” by The Four Seasons
Bruce's staff pick is the highest and last charting song by the Four Seasons. It hit #1 in March of 1976. The song was originally entitled "December 5th, 1933" and marked the repeal of Prohibition, but Frankie Valli persuaded keyboardist and writer Bob Gaudio to change it to a more nostalgic homage to Gaudio's affair with his soon-to-be-wife in the sixties.
“Squeeze Box” by The Who
Rob features the double entendre-filled hit from Pete Townshend that made it to #16 on the Billboard 100. Townshend wrote it after learning the accordion, and was surprised both that The Who recorded it, and that it was a hit.
“Never Been Any Reason” by Head East
Wayne's staff pick cranks up the 70's volume with this one-hit wonder. The song was recorded on their own label, as the band wanted to record this anthem their way.
“Dream Weaver” by Gary Wright
Brian's staff pick drifts into the Eastern-influenced music. In 1972 Wright accompanied George Harrison to India, and was inspired by the Indian culture and philosophy. Though Wright wrote the song on his guitar in about an hour, the track itself has no guitar. The song went to number 2 on the charts.
 
COMEDY TRACK:
“The White Knight” by Cledus Maggard and The Citizen's Band
We finish off this week's podcast with a CB-inspired comedy track which serves as a cautionary tale about relying too much on reports about the police from the CB radio.
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 fifth studio album by the Eagles would become their biggest commercial success (not counting Greatest Hits (1971-1975), another monster album in its own right). Hotel California has been certified 26x platinum, and virtually every track was played on rock stations, not just the singles "New Kid in Town", "Life in the Fast Lane" and the title track, "Hotel California."
This album was recorded after Bernie Leadon had left the group. This multi-instrumental founder was a strong country influence, and when he was replaced by rocker Joe Walsh the group took on a stronger rock orientation. “Hotel California” is a bit of a concept album with the word “Hotel” signifying the daily experience of the band members, and the word “California” taking on a mythological symbolism for the state, the United States, and/or the West. The songs speak of loss of innocence, corruption, illusion versus reality, and of course strained and broken relationships.
Friend of the show, Steve Hardin joins us in this week's episode.
We hope you enjoy this look at one of the most storied albums of the 70's.
 
Try and Love Again
Bassist and high tenor Randy Meisner wrote and sings lead on this track about starting over after a broken relationship. "right or wrong, what's done is done, it's only moments that we borrow. But the thoughts will linger on of the lady and her song when the sun comes up tomorrow." Meisner would be replaced by Timothy B. Schmit after this album.
Wasted Time
Don Henley takes on lead duties for this break-up song. Drummer Henley would take lead singer duties for about half the songs on the album. "So you can get on with your search, baby, and I can get on with mine. And maybe someday we will find that it wasn't really wasted time."
New Kid in Town
Glen Frey takes the lead on this song, which was the first single from the album. Don Henley has the main harmony vocals, and would attrribute the song to the fleeting nature of fame, especially in the music business.
The Last Resort
Henley wrote and sings this epic protest song about finding Paradise in California, and destroying it. The group would have to re-record it a number of times because the studio they were using in Miami was adjacent to a studio Black Sabbath was using to record Technical Ecstasy, and the sound kept bleeding through the walls.
 
ENTERTAINMENT TRACK:
”Rocky (Gonna Fly Now)” from the motion picture "Rocky"
Sylvester Stallone wrote and starred in the movie which would launch his career
 
STAFF PICKS:
“The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald” by Gordon Lightfoot
Rob's staff pick tells the story of a shipwreck in Lake Superior that occurred on November 10th 1975. Lightfoot was inspired by an article in Newsweek called "The Cruelest Month." The Edmund Fitzgerald was the largest ship on Lake Superior.
“Fly Like an Eagle” by Steve Miller Band
Friend of the show Steve Hardin brings us the intro and the song proper from Steve Miller Band. It rose to #2 on the charts, held back by Barbara Streisand's "Evergreen" from A Star Is Born. The band had been playing the song in concert since 1973, but it didn't make it to an album until now.
“It's a Long Way There” by Little River Band
Wayne brings us the first hit in the United States by Australia's Little River Band. This would begin a string of hits from the band with a west coast feel and tight harmonies.
“Beth” by Kiss
Bruce features an unusual ballad from the normally hard rocking Kiss. Ironically, this is the highest charting single by the group, hitting #7 on Billboard's Hot 100.
LAUGH TRACK:
"Disco Duck" by Rick Dees
This week's podcast finishes off on a fowl note.
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.

In a What the Riff first, we are reviewing an album by a fictional band this week! In March, a mockumentary directed by Rob Reiner hit the theatres about English heavy metal band Spinal Tap. The soundtrack from that movie, This Is Spinal Tap, would produce...well...perhaps not hits per se, but a lot of fun songs that are actually quite good for those of us who don't take things too seriously. It started out as a sketch on a TV show, but the actors who play the band members actually play their own instruments. The film contains a lot of impromptu interviews interspersed with songs from the band.
This is Spinal Tap:
David St. Hubbins (Michael McKean) - vocals
Nigel Tufnel - guitar
Derek Smalls (Harry Shearer) - bass
Viv Savage (David Kaff) - keyboards
Mick Shrimpton (R.J. Parnell) - drums
The film would feature a number of comedy sketches including the amplifier sketch ("ours goes up to 11!"), getting lost backstage, and an unfortunately sized mock-up of Stonehenge.
We hope you enjoy this funny album pick.
 
Listen to the Flower People
This track spoofs the hippie rock songs of the '60's. A back story was created for the band, and this was an example of some of their early work.
Tonight I'm Gonna Rock You Tonight
The objective of this song is to be a straightforward rock anthem with poor quality lyrics.
BIg Bottom
If there is a "hit" off this "album" it would be this one. Borrowing heavily from Queen's "Fat Bottomed Girls" but well before Sir Mix-A-Lot's "I Like Big Butts," the lyrics are self-explanatory.
Hell Hole
This is the first song on the soundtrack.
 
ENTERTAINMENT TRACK:
”Against All Odds (Take a Look at Me Now)” by Phil Collins
This song from the movie "Against All Odds" received the most airplay of any song in the 80's.
 
STAFF PICKS:
"Nobody Told Me" by John Lennon
Brian's staff pick was originally recorded in 1976, and was released in 1984 after not making the cut for the album "Double Fantasy." John Lennon had been killed in December 1980.
"New Moon on Monday" by Duran Duran
Rob's staff pick brings us one from Duran Duran at the height of their 80's popularity off their album "Seven and the Ragged Tiger." The album title was taken from the five band members and two managers (seven) and the Ragged Tiger was success.
"Shooting Shark" by Blue Oyster Cult
Bruce brings us a melancholy melody from Blue Oyster Cult based on a poem by Patti Smith, the "Punk Poet Laureate." This pick features Randy Jackson of American Idol fame on bass.
"All Lovers Are Deranged" by David Gilmour
Wayne finishes off our staff picks this week with Pink Floyd alumnus David Gilmour's solo effort. Pete Townshend wrote this song.
 
LAUGH TRACK:
"Mighty Mouse" by Andy Kaufman (kind of)
Andy Kaufman did a version of "Mighty Mouse" on Saturday Night Live, that you need to see.
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 we did our Rock-and-Roll Christmas "rabbit hole" episode last year we realized that there are just too many Rocking Christmas songs to be held in a single podcast. So we're coming back to you this year with another selection of Christmas songs that rock!
“God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen” by- Ronnie James Dio 
This selection from the former Rainbow and Black Sabbath front man puts a metal twist on a 16th century carol.
“God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen” by The Barenaked Ladies 
A more mellow take on the same song features stripped down acoustics and harmonies. Sarah McLachlan is featured in this cover.
“Happy Xmas (War Is Over)” by John Lennon 
Brian features the well-known original piece from John Lennon and Yoko Ono from 1971. They are joined by the Harlem Community Choir
“Christmas” by The Who, from “Tommy”
Rob brings us a deep cut from the rock opera Tommy. In this vignette, Tommy's father questions how Tommy can be saved given his inability to see, hear, or speak.
“Do They Know It's Christmas?” by  Band Aid 
This 1984 compilation was created as a means of providing support to famine victims in Ethiopia. Bob Geldof and an all-star cast of singers was assembled including Sting, Bono, Bananarama, Boy George, and Simon Le Bon.
“Stone Soul Christmas” by Binky Griptite 
Wayne puts the soul in Christmas with this 2011 effort. Binky Griptite is a DJ in New York and was the guitarist for the Dap-Kings.
“Christmas Presents Blues” by Jimmy Reed 
Wayne keeps the funk going with this rousing bass line and double entendre laden tune from 1971.
“I'm Your Santa” by Lil' Ed and the Imperials 
We drift into the blues with this New Orleans-style cut from Alligator Records.
“Celebrate Me Home” by Kenny Loggins 
Bruce features one from Loggins' debut solo album in 1977. While this has now become a Christmas standard, it was not released as a single at the time, and was not intended to become a standard.
“Baby It's Cold Outside” by Frank Loesser 
Brian's pick is the Dean Martin 1959 cover of this classic. Loesser originally wrote this as a housewarming song. When MGM bought the song, Frank's wife was furious that he had sold it.
“All I Want for Christmas Is You”  by Mariah Carey 
Bruce took a little heat from the boys when he brings us this original piece from 1994 that has become a best-selling modern day Christmas song. Its Carey's biggest international hit, and the best selling Christmas single by a female artist overall.
“Oh Tannenbaum” by Vince Guaraldi 
Christmas wouldn't be the same without “A Charlie Brown Christmas.” This piano jazz cover of the classic Christmas carol takes you to that show, and a rather dinky tree.
“Come Home for Christmas” by the Eagles 
This 1978 cover is the first Eagles song to feature Timothy B. Schmit on bass after Randy Meisner left. The original version was released in 1960 by pianist Charles Brown.
“Same Auld Lang Syne” by Dan Fogelberg
Brian features an autobiographical story from Fogelberg. This happened when he was returning home to Peoria when Jill went out for Egg Nog and Dan went out for whipping cream. Fogelberg did not reveal the name of he old flame, but she came forward after his death.
LAUGH TRACK:
“Walking Round in Women's Underwear” by Bob Rivers 
Wayne brings us into our "Laugh Track" part of the podcast with this comical take on Christmas and cross-dressing.
“Hanukkah Song” by Adam Sandler
We finish off with this comical take on the Jewish holiday from Adam Sandler, where we find out that David Lee Roth, Henry Winkler, William Shattner, and Leonard Nimoy are all jewish. But OJ Simpson is NOT!
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.

There are a handful of albums that have never lost their popularity, but just get stronger over time, and The Joshua Tree would certainly be one of these giant albums. The fifth studio album by U2 would see the group coming back from the experimental feel of their previous album, The Unforgettable Fire, and taking on a more conventional approach. The Joshua Tree took the theme of "America" as the band had been spending significant time on tour in the country, and Bono was reading American novelists like Flannery O'Connor at the time. The Edge was inspired by American blues and country artists, and several tracks on the album have a blues feel.
Autumn Fischer from WSB Radio’s “The Von Haessler Doctrine” (SFW) as well as her own podcast “One Topic” (NSFW) joins us for this week's fun and shenanigans.
 
Where the Streets Have No Name
This first track on the album takes its name from the idea that you can tell a person's religion and income based on the Belfast street on which they live. The repeating arpeggio with a delay effect that kicks off the song is a signature sound for the band.
One Tree Hill
This song references a volcanic peak in New Zealand which his an important memorial place for the Maori people. It was written in memory of Greg Carroll, a Maori roadie for the band who was killed in a motorcycle accident in Dublin in 1986.
Bullet the Blue Sky
Bono was inspired to write these lyrics as a protest song after a trip to Nicaragua and El Salvador. He saw the toll that the US military intervention in the region placed on local peasants. It has taken on different meanings in concerts, from consumerism to handgun violence to Nazism. The tune started as a jam session.
In God's Country
The idea of this track is that the US is a desert rose, or a siren - both sad and seductive. It also talks about the lack of political ideas in the West, portraying western thought as an arid place.
 
ENTERTAINMENT TRACK:
“At This Moment” by Billy Vera and the Beaters
This song was featured in the movie “Blind Date,”and was earlier used in the TV Sitcom "Family Ties."
STAFF PICKS:
“We're Ready” by Boston
Wayne takes us to Boston's third studio album. It was a long time between their second and third efforts, and this one was perceived as a bit of a disappointment. However, the album still maintains that distinctive Boston sound.
“Mandolin Rain” by Bruce Hornsby and the Range
Brian's staff pick features the incredible piano work of Bruce Hornsby from his first album “The Way It Is.” The song is about a failed southern romance.
“Heartbreak Beat” by The Psychedelic Furs
Rob brings us into the alternative rock genre. The band called themselves “The Psychedelic Furs” to separate themselves from the punk movement, who didn't care for psychedelic music. This was their only top 40 song in the U.S.
“(I Just) Died In Your Arms” by Cutting Crew
Special guest Autumn Fischer features the "echo snare" sound of British band Cutting Crew from their debut studio album. She became a fan of this song from the radio on Grand Theft Auto.
“Baby Grand” by Billy Joel
Bruce's staff pick finishes us off this week. It features a double piano duet with Joel and piano legend Ray Charles. Billy Joel named his daughter Alexa Ray, with the middle name being for Charles. When Charles reached out about doing a duet, Joel wrote this song in a single night, using "Georgia On My Mind" as the template for the style he wanted to achieve.
 
 
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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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.

We return to one of the true giants of the rock era as we take a dive into Led Zeppelin's debut album, known as Led Zeppelin 1. Band members Robert Plant, Jimmy Page, John Paul Jones and John Bonham recorded this album prior to securing a recording contract. It was recorded in 36 hours at a cost of 2,100 pounds. Founder and guitarist Jimmy Page produced the album.
The tracks are a mix of old blues songs and original material, and feature both Page's stirring guitar riffs and Plant's soaring vocals. Originally touring as The New Yardbirds, they changed their name to Led Zeppelin supposedly after Who drummer Keith Moon commented on The New Yardbirds “going over like a lead zeppelin.”
This first album had only one single (“Good TImes, Bad Times”), but most of the tracks would get in the rotation on album-oriented rock stations throughout the U.S.
Join us as we take in this rock-and-roll blues debut by one of the masters of the genre.
 
Babe, I'm Gonna Leave You
This track alternates between soft acoustics and driving rock. This was originally composed by Anne Bredon and was covered by Joan Baez in the early 60's before Led Zeppelin's cover.
You Shook Me
A deeper blues track was written by Willie Dixon, and was originally recorded by Muddy Waters in 1962, and by Jeff Beck in 1968. This version is slow and somewhat psychedelic, but maintains a heavy feel throughout this long song.
Communication Breakdown
One of the well-known tracks from the debut album, it is surprising to realize that this was not a single at the time.
I Can't Quit You Baby
This is another Willie Dixon cut, with a distinct feel of the Mississippi delta. It was first recorded by Otis Rush in 1956. "I can't quit you baby, but I've got to put you down for a while."
 
ENTERTAINMENT TRACK:
Theme from the Television Series “Bewitched”
Dick York, the actor who played Darrin Stephens (father of Elizabeth Montgombery's Samantha) on the show, collapsed on the set and was replaced by Dick Sargent. The show continued with the completely different actor until 1972 with no mention of the change.
STAFF PICKS:
"Ramblin', Gamblin' Man” by The Bob Seger System
Wayne's staff pick features a driving drum beat and the Hammond organ from Detroit's Bob Seger. This was inspired by the Spencer Davis group, and would be Seger's first hit, and only hit until the “Night Moves” album in the 70's.
“Build Me Up, Buttercup” by The Foundations
Rob features this pop song which has been used by the Los Angeles Angels baseball team among many others. It was written by Mike D'abo, vocalist for Manfred Mann.
“Ray of Hope” by The Rascals
Bruce's staff pick features the New Jersey hit machine known as The Rascals. This song was inspired by the assassination of Robert F. Kennedy in June of 1968. "But there's people who win without making fists. Our world won't survive lest we think like this."
“Touch Me” by The Doors
Brian finishes off the staff picks with this Jim Morrison hit. The original name of the song was going to be "Hit Me," but thankfully, Morrison convinced the band to make the change to "Touch Me."
 
INSTRUMENTAL TRACK:
“Soulful Strut” by Young Holt Unlimited
Our instrumental close is a well-known riff you may recognize - it was a hit at the time.
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.

New Zealander Neil Finn founded the indie rock band Crowded House with Austrailian drummer Paul Hester and Australian bassist Nick Seymour. For their third studio album Woodface, Neil's older brother and Split Enz alumnus Tim Finn would join the band. In fact, much of the material recorded for Woodface was originally intended for a Finn brothers album, and made it onto the this album after Capitol Records passed on many of the new songs that were originally intended for the album.
Neil Finn has always been a strong singer-songwriter through many bands (including Crowded House), and is currently touring with Fleetwood Mac.
Eric Von Haessler from WSB Radio and The Von Haessler Doctrine joins us again on What the Riff to cover this excellent and underrated album.
Chocolate Cake
The opening track on the album was an album about the excesses of America and the West. “The excess of fat on your American bones will cushion the impact as you sink like a stone.” It's a bit of a novelty track with a “National Enquirer” feel.
Its Only Natural
This beautiful track reflects a long relationship. “It's only natural that I should want to be with you. It's only natural that you should feel the same way too.”
Weather with You
This track with an eastern-influenced sound and a vocal duet encourages the listener to not be affected by circumstances, but instead to “take the weather with you.”
4 Seasons in One Day
Another “weather related title” brings the lyrics, “Even when you're feeling warm, the temperature can drop away like 4 seasons in one day.” There's a distinct Beatles inspiration from this track, and the lyrics are incredibly deep.
 
ENTERTAINMENT TRACK:
“7 and 7 is - Love” (from the movie, “Point Break”)
The movie Point Break was a surfing-themed film, and this track reflects that surfer image.
STAFF PICKS:
"Saving My Heart" by Yes
We say, “All roads lead to Yes,” and it is true for Bruce's staff pick. This song is from the album “Union,” which combines the current Yes members with former Yes members John Anderson, Bill Bruford, Rick Wakeman, and Steve Howe.
“Walking in Memphis” by Marc Cohn
Brian's staff pick takes us 10 feet off of Beale. The song is somewhat autobiographical, describing Marc Cohn's experience on a trip to Memphis, Tennessee; where he met Muriel in The Hollywood Cafe, and attended a service by the Reverend Al Green.
“Too High” by The Mighty Lemon Drops
Wayne brings us a deep and psychedelic cut from the Manchester scene that would eventually become popular with The Stone Roses and Oasis. This is off their fourth studio album “Sound...Goodbye to Your Standards.”
“More Than Words” by Extreme
Rob finishes our staff picks with this acoustic ballad from Gary Cherone and Extreme. This is the third single from their album “Pornograffitti.” The band would eventually come to resent the popularity of the song.
INSTRUMENTAL TRACK:
“Kind of Bird” by The Allman Brothers Band
An instrumental jam with a Southern flair takes us out on this week's What the Riff.
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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.

Berkeley, California's Counting Crows seemed to become overnight sensations with their debut album August and Everything After. Lead man and pianist Adam Duritz and guitarist David Bryson came out of a group called The Himalayans, originally starting as a duet. Over time they formed the group, adding keyboardist Charlie Gillingham, guitarists Dan Vickrey and David Immergluck, bassist Millard Powers, and percussionist Jim Bogios. In a time when grunge was on the ascendancy, the Counting Crows drew inspiration more from Van Morrison and the coffee house than from Kurt Cobain and Seattle. Duritz' lyrics are a powerful draw for the band. Ironically, despite the fame-chasing lyrics of their breakthrough single, "Mr. Jones," Adam Duritz was never very comfortable with the fame that came with the success of the Counting Crows.
We hope you enjoy this lyric-rich album.
 
Round Here
The first track on the album describes a man walking away from a home and a woman, only to discover that he is walking away from himself. The lyrics talk about all the things he can now do, but while these freedoms are important to children, they are not very significant to adults.
Omaha
This is a deeper cut off the album, and was tried by Duritz in many previous bands before finally feeling like he got it right with this iteration. In April 1994, the city of Omaha, Nebraska designated this song the “official song of the city.”
Anna Begins
Another deep cut, this song was inspired by a relationship Duritz had with an Australian named Anna. The relationship could not survive the geographic distance. “She's talking in her sleep, it's keeping me awake, and Anna begins to toss and turn. And every word is nonsense but I understand, and Oh Lord, I'm not ready for this sort of thing.”
Rain King
A big hit off the album, "\“I've been here before, and I deserve a little more.” The song was written in 40 minutes after watching the film “Dr. Zhivago.”
 
ENTERTAINMENT TRACK:
“The X-Files” by Mark Snow
The long-running science fiction television series featuring Mulder and Skully began in 1993. The truth is out there!
STAFF PICKS:
“Creep” by Radiohead
Brian features the ultra-depressing lyrics of Thom Yorke. The song was inspired by an obsession York had with a stranger. When he confessed his obsession, the result was decidedly not a good one.
“I Would Do Anything for Love (But I Won't Do That)” by Meat Loaf
Bruce features the longest single in history to make it to #1 on the charts, clocking in at 7:58. Meat Loaf won a Grammy for this song from the sequel album to 1977's “Bat out of Hell.”
“My Sister” by The Juliana Hatfield Three
Wayne brings an alternative track that was big on the radio, but didn't make it to the charts. It is told from the perspective of a little sister or brother looking up to a big sister, with the love-hate relationship that comes with it.
“Crazy Mary” by Pearl Jam
Rob's staff pick was originally a folk song written by guitar player Victoria Williams. Pearl Jam put this cover on a benefit album for Williams after she was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis. Williams sings in the background.
 
INSTRUMENTAL TRACK:
“Food Innuendo Guy” by Adam Sandler
This song really mashes our potatoes.
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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.

Huey Lewis and keyboardist Sean Hopper started their career with a jazz-funk band called Clover in San Francisco in 1972. After spending some time in the UK and working with Thin Lizzy, Lewis joined with Hopper and members of another San Francisco band called Soundhole to become "Huey Lewis & The American Express." The name was changed to Huey Lewis & The News when Chrysalis records brought up concerns about trademark infringement from the credit card company.
Fore! is the fourth studio album from Huey Lewis and the News, and continued the band's string of hit singles from their third album called "Sports." Huey Lewis himself was a bit of a celebrity at this point, and made a cameo in "Back to the Future" where he judged Marty McFly's band as they auditioned with a hard rock version of Huey Lewis and the News' "The Power of Love."
We hope you enjoy this journey into the throwback do-wop rock of Huey Lewis and the News!
Jacob's Ladder
The first track on the album was written by Bruce and John Hornsby, and went to number 1 in 1987. The imagery contrasts getting through life one day at a time against the televangelist caricature.
Whole Lotta Lovin’
This is a deep cut off the album, about being on the road and away from the one you love. The lyrics are pretty funny.
Naturally
Bruce's favorite song on the album us another deep cut, this time a cappella. If you sang in groups of any type during the 80’s, you know this song.
Hip To Be Square
This is one of the hits off the album that represents the time very well. Lewis intended this to be ironic, not an anthem for squares around the world, but the band did have a clean cut, conservative image. They were a little older than many of the superstar groups and didn’t tend to trash every hotel they stayed in. Still, Lewis was the child of beatniks, and bristles a little with the idea that he relishes squareness. Members of the San Francisco 49ers are singing backup here, including Joe Montana and Ronnie Lott.
 
ENTERTAINMENT TRACK:
”Ruthless People” by Mick Jagger
This track was the theme to a comedy film with lots of stars and lots of plot twists, and the song was moving up the charts.
STAFF PICKS:
"Tuff Enuff" by The Fabulous Thunderbirds
Brian features the Texas based group with Stevie Ray's brother Jimmy Vaughan on guitar. This song peaked at #10 on the Billboard Hot 100.
"Shake Me" by Cinderella
Wayne comments that the hair bands were making their mark on the rock scene at the time. This is Cinderella's first single off their album “Night Songs”
"Welcome to the Boomtown" by David & David
Rob's staff pick walks the alternative rock path. This storytelling song references the allure of riches and drugs - “all that money makes such a succulent sound.”
"The Hunter" by GTR 
Bruce's staff pick features a one-album supergroup composed of guitarist Steve Hackett of Genesis and Steve Howe of Asia and Yes.
 
INSTRUMENTAL TRACK:
"Bass Case" by Quiet Riot
We finish off this week's podcast with a rare bass solo 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.

One of the most famous of the British "mod" groups, Small Faces was founded by Steve Marriott, Ronnie Lane, Kenney Jones, and Jimmy Winston (although Winston had been replaced by Ian McLagan by this album). Small Faces was solidly in the psychedelic rock category. Small Faces toured with The Who, a group also known as a "mod" group. The name comes from the fact that all the members were under 5' 9". There Are But Four Small Faces was an international alternative to their eponymous second album released in 1967 in Britain.
Talk to You
This song was a more blues-oriented track than psychedelic.
 
Here Come the Nice
This track is a more typical psychedelic song, and was surprisingly able to make it past the censors of the day, since it was a tribute to a drug dealer.
Itchycoo Park
This song is a tale of kids skipping school and drinking in a place they called Itchycoo Park. They really didn't intend to release this track, but it went to number 16 in the U.S. anyway. However, this song was banned by the censors in the UK.
Tin Soldier
Marriott wrote this more rock-oriented song, and took it with him when he went to Humble Pie. It was written for a model named Jenny Rylance, whom he would later marry.
 
ENTERTAINMENT TRACK:
The Theme from Rowan & Martin's "Laugh-In" 
This edgy show premiered in January 1968
STAFF PICKS:
“Think” by Aretha Franklin
Bruce's staff pick is from the Queen of Soul, off her 13th studio album. This was the only song off the album that was written by Franklin.
“Different Drum” by The Stone Poneys featuring Linda Ronstadt
Ronstadt's vocals on this track make this style of performance the sound that would define this song, though it would be covered multiple times.
“Judy in Disguise (with Glasses)” by John Fred and His Playboy Band
Brian's staff pick was a parody of the Beatles' "Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds," a parody that John Lennon enjoyed. Brian knew John Fred during his childhood in Baton Rouge, so this is a staff pick with special meaning.
“Bend Me, Shape Me” by American Breed
This horn-driven piece is another song that was recorded by a number of groups, but this is the best known version. American Breed would be a one-hit wonder, but would have success writing commercial jingles.
INSTRUMENTAL TRACK:
“Love is Blue” by Paul Mauriat and His Orchestra
This orchestral instrumental song was a top hit at the time.
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 actual title of David Bowie's fifth studio album is The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars. This influential album from the highly creative David Bowie would become the standard bearer of early 70's glam rock. This genre was outrageous, decadent, and a departure from the heavier, revolutionary political tone of late 70's rock music. Bowie created a character named Ziggy Stardust - an androgynous, bisexual rock star channeling aliens to save the earth from destruction which was only 5 years away. Bowie would later struggle to keep his own identity from being lost in that of Stardust. We hope you enjoy this journey into this iconic glam rock work.
“Ziggy Stardust”
The title track introduces the character, but doesn't appear to have actually been released as a single. However, it received significant airplay on the FM rock radio stations.
 
“Hang On to Yourself”
This track is less glam rock and more punk rock. The Ziggy Stardust album wasn't written as a concept album from the start, but morphed into that somewhat organically. That means that the songs themselves stand alone well, and there is variety in the type of songs you hear.
 
“Starman”
This song was the last to be recorded for the album, and was the first single released. Supposedly the powers-that-be had not "heard a single" from the album, which led to the addition of Starman.
 
“Suffragette City”
Believe it or not, this most famous of the tracks from the Ziggy Stardust album was the B-side to the "Starman" single. Bowie originally offered this song to the band "Mott the Hoople" when they were having difficulties but they didn't take it. They did record "All the Young Dudes," also by Bowie.
 
ENTERTAINMENT TRACK:
“The Candy Man” by Sammy Davis, Jr.
This cover from the movie "Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory" released the prior year would become one of Sammy Davis Jr's. biggest hits.
 
STAFF PICKS:
“Hold Your Head Up” by Argent
Rod Argent, formerly of The Zombies, formed this group who played this rock anthem. It was released as a single in 1972 before making it to an album, and was their only U.S. hit.
 
“Old Man” by Neil Young
Brian's staff pick takes a mellow and reflective approach with lyrics inspired by Young's relationship with an older owner of a ranch that Young bought. This is off the Harvest album.
 
“Long Cool Woman (In a Black Dress)” by The Hollies
Wayne brings us some swamp rock with his pick. This is one of the more rocking songs by The Hollies, with lyrics inspired by bootlegging days of the Prohibition era.
 
“Hot Rod Lincoln” by Commander Cody and His Lost Planet Airmen
This is a cover of a song released and written by Charlie Ryan back in 1955. It has been recorded a number of times, but this one is the most popular version.
 
INSTRUMENTAL TRACK:
“Amazing Grace” by The Pipes and Drums and Military Band of the Royal Scots Dragoon Guards
This spiritual piece actually made it on the top 40 at the time.
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.

Athens, Georgia may have been known as the music hotbed during the middle 80's, but Drivin' N Cryin' out of nearby Atlanta was benefitting from the Georgia focus as well. Scarred But Smarter was their debut album created on a shoestring budget, with songs that reflect the sound of the Athens scene (where the album was recorded), but with lyrical depth and variety. After several down years, Drivin' N Cryin' is on the upswing again, and you can catch them on tour today.
We are thrilled to have Eric Von Haessler of "The Von Haessler Doctrine" (WSB Radio) join us to present this great album. Eric’s knowledge on the band is extensive, as he produced and directed the 2012 documentary, “Scarred by Smarter: Life n Times of Drivin n Cryin.” Fans should check it out on Amazon Prime!
Scarred but Smarter 
This rocking title track from the album is about picking yourself up and learning from the difficulties of life. "There's always a chance to get restarted to a new world, new life, scarred but smarter."
Keys to Me 
This track discusses the hope that someone will "get" you, even if you don't understand yourself. "Turn me around and listen you to me."
Bring Home the Bacon 
"Bring home the bacon and take out the trash, it's just another matter of fact." You can sense the Beatles influence in this song. This slower track provides a sense of the variety on the album.
Stand Up and Fight for It
This song in 3/4 time encourages living the life that you want to live, and don't let others define you.
 
ENTERTAINMENT TRACK:
“Jumpin' Jack Flash” by the Rolling Stones
Whoopi Goldberg starred in the movie with this title, featuring the song from decades past.
 
STAFF PICKS:
“The Future's So Bright, I Gotta Wear Shades” by Timbuk3
Bruce's staff pick was popular on the Georgia Tech campus and at graduations at the time, but the line wasn't supposed to be taken so optimistically. It referenced nuclear holocaust.
“To Be a Lover” by Billy Idol
Rob picked this hit single off Idol's “Whiplash Smile” album, which was a cover originally co-written and performed by Booker T. Jones and William Bell in 1968. The original title was "Forgot to Be Your Lover."
“Don't Forget Me When I'm Gone” by Glass Tiger
Brian's staff pick features a Canadian group who got a boost with a credit and a guest appearance by Bryan Adams on this song. This is off their first album “The Thin Red Line.”
 
“Will I Ever Understand You?” by Berlin
Despite the name, Wayne points out that this band actually originated from California. This deeper cut describes a person looking in the mirror trying to understand herself.
 
LAUGH TRACK:
“Addicted to Spuds” by Weird Al Yankovic
We finish off this episode with Weird Al's parody of the Robert Palmer classic.
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.