What the Riff Next Gen

Courtney Love's band Hole released their second album, Live Through This one week after the death of Kurt Cobain, Love's husband and front man for the grunge giant Nirvana.  Hole originated in the punk rock scene, but are often identified with the grunge movement due to Love's relationship with Cobain and their move to Washington to write this album.
In addition to frontwoman Love, the band consisted of Eric Erlandson on lead guitar, Kristen Pfaff on bass, and Patty Schemel on drums.  Love and Erlandson wrote the songs, and Pfaff and Schemel were newcomers to the group, replacing bassist Jill Emery and drummer Caroline Rue who had left over creative differences.
The album was noted for a toned-down and more melodic approach to things than their debut effort.  Themes of the album would revolve around aspects of Courtney Love's personal life, including relationships, motherhood, and post-partum depression.  A controversy that plagued the album was that much of the work was ghost-written by Kurt Cobain.  Band members and producers have consistently denied this, though it is perhaps understandable how a rumor like this would get legs, following on the heels of Cobain's suicide.  The only connection between Cobain and the album was that he sang backing vocals on a couple of songs when they were in the recording studio.  In fact, many of the tracks were performed during Hole's previous tour.
While Live Through This is considered more melodic than their previous album, that is a relative measure - the album itself is still quite raw and gritty.  That didn't keep it from becoming a critical and popular success, going multi-platinum by December 1994.  Unfortunately, drummer Pfaff would not live to see this feat, having died of a heroin overdose in June, just before Hole was supposed to embark on a world tour.  
Courtney Love would continue through several iterations of Hole, and pursue songwriting, acting, a writer of multiple manga volumes and a memoir.
 
Violet
This song is the opening track for the album.  It was inspired by Love's relationship with Billy Corgan of the Smashing Pumpkins, just prior to her relationship with Cobain.  Love said this song was "about a jerk, I hexed him, and made him lose his hair."  
Miss World
The second track on the album was the first single.  It is about a person who is loved by everyone, but is empty inside and drowning in depression.  "I'm Miss World.  Somebody kill me."
Asking For It
This deeper cut is about rape.  Love talked about a time when she would stage dive, and found her clothes ripped off.  Love felt like she was raped by the audience.  Love's life and upbringing was a tumultuous one, with rebellion, drugs, and broken family relationships.
Doll Parts
The second single from the album is likely the best known one.  It reflects her insecurity with Kurt Cobain.  Love and Cobain both went into rehab when Love was pregnant.  Unfortunately Cobain would run away from the rehab center shortly before his suicide.
 
ENTERTAINMENT TRACK:
Theme from Space Ghost for “Space Ghost Coast to Coast”
This comedy spoof of a late night talk show was the first original series produced by the Cartoon Network.
 
STAFF PICKS:
“Player's Ball” by OutKast
Brian brings us Southern Rap from Atlanta's own OutKast.  The song discusses living in the south and living in the hip hop culture.  This is off OutKast's debut album entitled "Southernplayalisticadillacmuzik."
“Rocks” by Primal Scream
Bruce's staff pick is off Primal Scream's fourth album "Give Out But Don't Give Up."  Bobby Gillespie and Jim Beattie originally formed this Scottish rock band with a psychedelic sound, but went more classic rock and blues with this album.
“Found Out About You” by the Gin Blossoms
Rob's staff pick features the fourth single from the Gin Blossoms' second album, “New Miserable Experience.” The Gin Blossoms formed in Tempe Arizona in 1987, and were identified as alternative rock and “jangle pop.”  The name comes from a picture of W.C. Fields describing his ruddy complexion. 
“Because the Night” by 10,000 Maniacs
Wayne's pick features a cover originally performed by The Patti Smith Group from 1978.  Natalie Merchant fronts 10,000 Maniacs in an Unplugged version  of this classic written by Patti Smith and Bruce Springsteen
 
INSTRUMENTAL TRACK:
Main Theme from the motion picture “Bad Girls”
This instrumental was the soundtrack from a western featuring Madeliene Stowe, Andie MacDowell, and Drew Barrymore.
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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.

Today Ozzy Osbourne is a household name, and arguably this debut album is where it all started.  Before Blizzard of Ozz was released, Ozzy had been fired from his position as front man for the heavy metal band Black Sabbath, and he was certain that he would “go back to Birmingham and the Dole” after that.  However, Don Arden, Black Sabbath's manager, had hoped that Ozzy would return to the group, and signed him to Jet Records to record new material in Los Angeles.  He sent his daughter to look after Ozzy and "protect his investment."  That daughter was named Sharon Arden...and would soon be famous in her own right as Ozzy's wife and manager.
This album was originally intended to be a super group called Blizzard of Ozz, with Ozzy (born John Michael Osbourne, but known as Ozzy since elementary school) on lead vocals, Don Airey (Rainbow) on keyboards, Bob Daisley (Rainbow) on bass, Lee Kerslake (Uriah Heap) on percussion, and virtuoso Randy Rhoads (Quiet Riot) on lead guitar.  The band was surprised and upset to find that they had been relegated to "Ozzy's band" when the group name became the title of this solo album.
Blizzard of Ozz was released in the UK in September 1980, and in the US in March 1981.  It would go on to 4x platinum status, and would be Ozzy Osbourne's best selling solo album.  
And now, for those of you who are ready to hear from The Prince of Darkness, the Godfather of Metal himself, in his prime - “ALL ABOARDDDDDDD!  heh-heh-heh-heh!”
 
Crazy Train
While this song is a classic and staple of metal, it took some time for this first single to achieve that status.  It peaked at number 9 on the Billboard charts in July 1981.  It is about the cold war - "Hears of a cold war, that's what we've become.  Inheriting troubles, I'm mentally numb."
Mr. Crowley
The second single from the album was a lot less well known outside of rock radio at the time.  It is about Aleister Crowley, who was an English occultist and magician from the early 20th century.  Ozzy had read a book about Crowley and was inspired to write a song by that and a deck of tarot cards they found in the studio.  The guitar solo from this piece is a famous one by Rhoads, who would be killed in a plane crash in 1982.  Mr. Crowley and Crazy Train were the only singles released from the album.
Goodbye to Romance
This slower-paced song was the first track written for the album, and was Ozzy's way of saying goodbye to his former band.  Black Sabbath fired Osbourne in April 1979, claiming that he was "unreliable and had excessive substance abuse issues compared to the other members."  
I Don't Know
The opening track from the album was surprisingly not released as a single.  However, it did get considerable airplay on rock stations regardless.  Some suggest that this song was also about Osbourne's departure from Black Sabbath, but the lyrics sound more like a plea to not expect answers to serious questions from rock and roll singers.
 
ENTERTAINMENT TRACK:
Theme from the animated TV series “Thundarr the Barbarian”
This staple of Saturday morning animated action shows made its debut in 1980, predicting cosmic destruction in 1994.
 
STAFF PICKS:
“Rough Boys” by Pete Townshend
Wayne brings us a side project from the Who's Pete Townshend.  "Rough Boys" is off his second solo album, but this one sounds just like the Who.  It is dedicated to the Sex Pistols, and Stephen Thomas Erlewine of AllMusic described it as a "blistering punk love letter."
“Another One Bites the Dust” by Queen
Rob's staff pick spent 15 weeks on the top 10, making it the longest running top-10 song of 1980.  This song has a number of sound effects, but there are no synthesizers used to make the song.  "Another One Bites the Dust" was considered for the Rocky III film, but ended up being "Eye of the Tiger" by Survivor when things fell through on "Dust."  
“Sometimes a Fantasy” by Billy Joel
Brian features one of many hit singles off Joel's "Glass Houses."  The song is about erotic phone call lines - 900 numbers.  Joel was careful with the lyrics he chose to avoid issues with censors and moral advocacy groups.
“Late in the Evening” by Paul Simon
Bruce's staff pick is the lead single off Simon's fifth studio album and semi-autobiographical movie "One Trick Pony."  Dummer Steve Gadd is playing with two pairs of drumsticks in each hand to give the percussion a fuller feeling.  According to Songfacts, the lyrics are based on a drwam that Simon had when he was a teenager of being a rock star.
 
INSTRUMENTAL TRACK:
“Behind My Camel” by The Police
This instrumental track from the 1980 album release, Zenyatta Mondatta was written by Andy Summers, but hated by Sting and Stewart Copeland.  Summers plays both lead guitar and bass on this track, because Sting opted out.
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.

There are only a handful of bands who seem to jump fully formed onto the scene from their debut album, and one of these is certainly Lynyrd Skynyrd with their debut studio release (Pronounced 'Lĕh-'nérd 'Skin-'nérd).  Lynyrd Skynyrd is arguably the band that defines Southern rock.  Originally formed as “My Backyard” in 1964, the group would take the name “Lynyrd Skynyrd” in 1969, taking the name of a PE teacher (Leonard Skinner) at Robert E. Lee High School — a teacher whose strict enforcement of school policies against boys having long hair resulted in guitarist Gary Rossington dropping out of high school.  In addition to guitarist Rossington, the band consisted of front man Ronnie Van Zant, guitarist Allen Collins, guitarist and bassist Ed King, keyboardist Billy Powell, and drummer Bob Burns.
Despite the jam band feel from songs like “Freebird,” the band itself went into the studio with their songs quite perfected, and no improvisation was allowed.  The album itself is terrific, and the band vaulted into an incredible popularity after opening for The Who during their Quadrophenia tour.
Skynyrd would produce five studio albums before tragedy struck in a plane crash in 1977 that killed Van Zant, Steve Gaines, Cassie Gaines, assistant road manager Dean Kilpatrick, and the pilot and co-pilot.  Other members of the band would suffer serious injuries.
FOTS Bill Cook brings us this iconic Southern Rock album, which happened to be the first album he ever owned.
 
I Ain't the One
The opening track from the album was written by Gary Rossington and Ronnie Van Zant.  It tells a story of a rich girl "tryin' to put a hook on me" when she was found to be pregnant, but "you know and I know, woman, I ain't the one."
Gimme Three Steps
The lyrics that Ronnie Van Zant penned for this well known tale are a true story.  Ronnie Van Zant had a fake ID, and made the rest of the band stay in the car while he went into The Little Brown Jug in Jacksonville, Florida.  He was confronted by a man with a loaded 44 after dancing with his wife, Linda Lou.  Van Zant ran out to the car and wrote the lyrics on the way back to their studio.
Things Goin' On
This deeper cut is appropriate for today.  It is influenced by the Muscle Shoals sound, and has a great honky tonk keyboard sound.  The song is a warning about social and environmental issues, and the politicians' uncaring attitudes.  
Tuesday's Gone
A slower cut, this song has become iconic over time.  Stories regarding the meaning of the lyrics conflict to a great degree.  Some say it is about a girl who was left behind, while others say it is about a lifestyle that was lost as the band became famous.  "Train roll on many miles from my home, see, I'm riding my blues away.  Tuesday, you see, she had to be free but somehow I've got to carry on."
 
ENTERTAINMENT TRACK:
“Rock Around the Clock” by Bill Haley and the Comets
This song was part of the movie "American Graffiti," debuting in the theaters in August 1973
 
STAFF PICKS:
“Why Should I Care” by Beck, Bogert, & Appice
Bruce features a supergroup formed by Jeff Beck, Tim Bogert (bassist for Vanilla Fudge, Cactus), and Carmine Appice (drummer for Vanilla Fudge, Cactus, and Blue Murder).  The song was written by Raymond Louis Kennedy, who also wrote "Sail On, Sailor" for The Beach Boys and "Isn't It Time" by The Babys.  
“Half Breed” by Cher
Rob brings us a song about a biracial girl with a white father and a native American mother, and the lack of acceptance she found from both races.  Cher had some Cherokee ancestry on her mother's side.
“I Found Sunshine” by The Chi-Lites
Wayne's staff pick brings us the soulful sound of The Chi-Lites from Chi-town — Chicago.  They were going to name the band "The Hi-Lites," but decided to make it "The Chi-Lites" in homage to their Chicago.  The band charted 21 songs on the hot 100 throughout their career.
“Bad, Bad Leroy Brown” by Jim Croce
Bill brings the staff picks home with acclaimed singer-songwriter Jim Croce's first hit.  Leroy made a pass at Doris, and her husband beat him up.  Leroy Brown was based on a guy that Croce met in the army.  He went AWOL from the army, but was arrested when he came back for his check.  Croce knew after listening to him that he would write a song about him one day.
 
COMEDY TRACK:
“Uneasy Rider” by The Charlie Daniels Band
Continuing the storytelling theme, the late, great Charlie Daniels tells a story about getting stranded in a red neck bar in Mississippi.
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.

Who is the finest rock band to come out of Winnipeg, Canada?  That's right, The Guess Who.  In January 1970 they released their sixth studio album, American Woman, and were riding the wave of one of their most commercially successful albums in March.  This album took a harder rock direction from their formerly psychedelic and pop sound, and would produce their only number 1 hit in the US, making them the first Canadian band to top the American Hot 100 chart.
The Guess Who got their name in 1965 when their record label, Quality Records, released a single under the name “Guess Who?”  They were attempting to build a buzz that the song might be a famous band recording incognito, but the name stuck.  At the time of recording American Woman, the group consisted of Burton Cummings on lead vocals, keyboards, and harmonica, Randy Bachman on lead guitar, Jim Kale on bass, and Garry Peterson on drums.  All band members contributed backing vocals to the strong harmonies of the group.  This album would be Randy Bachman's last with the group (until rejoining in 1983), as he would go on to form Bachman-Turner Overdrive.
Friend of the show Bill Cook stands in for the vacationing Brian Dickhute as we look back on one of Canada's greatest rock bands.
 
 
No Time
This first single off the album is a reverse “Dear John” letter.  The song was originally on their album “Canned Wheat,” but made a reappearance on this album with a faster tempo.  “Seasons change and so do I, you need not wonder why.  There's no time left for you.”
American Woman
This title song may be their best known of The Guess Who songs.  Randy Bachman started this riff while tuning his guitar during a concert after breaking a string, and turned it into a chart-topping hit.  The lyrics reflect the differences between girls in the States and girls in Canada.  American women were considered “dangerous” by the band.  
8:15
This deeper cut is talking about meeting at a place at 8:15.  We enjoyed the jangley guitar and the drum break in this one.
No Sugar Tonight
This track was the B-side from the American Woman single.  Randy Bachman had written a song called “No Sugar Tonight,” and Burton Cummings thought it was too short.  They added a Cummings song that was “New Mother Nature” to lengthen it.  “No Sugar Tonight” was inspired when Bachman saw a tough biker berated by his wife, and she shouted out the final line “And one more thing...you ain't gettin' no sugar tonight!”
 
ENTERTAINMENT TRACK:
The Intro to ABC's “Wide World of Sports”
The event that came to be known as “the agony of defeat” occurred this month when Vinko Bogataj crashed during a ski jump attempt.
 
STAFF PICKS:
Celebrate by Three Dog Night
Bruce's staff pick peaked at number 15, and is off Three Dog Night's second studio album called "Suitable for Framing."  There are three vocalists for Three Dog Night, and they're all taking lead on this song.  Danny Hutton is on lead in verse 1, Chuck Negron is on lead in verse 2, and Cory Wells is on verse 3.  The song also features the Chicago horn section.
Love Grows (Where My Rosemary Goes) by Edison Lighthouse
Wayne features a group with Tony Burrows on lead.  Burrows would have three hits fronting three different bands - Edison Lighthouse, White Plains, and Brotherhood of Man.
Let  It Be by The Beatles
Friend of the show Bill Cook brings us this timeless epic song from the final days of The Beatles.  McCartney wrote this song during a time when the rest of his band members were moving on with their lives, and Paul wasn't sure where his life was going.  In a dream his mother - named Mary - comes to him and says, "let it be."
(editors note:  it looks like Bruce was wrong about Ringo Starr living in Atlanta.  He has homes in London, Los Angeles, and Monte Carlo, so don't look for him in Buckhead!)
Always Something There to Remind Me by R.B. Greaves
Rob's staff pick was authored by Burt Bacharach and Hal David.  R.B. Greaves recorded this version at Muscle Shoals, and took it to number 27.  Most people are probably more familiar with the Naked Eyes version from 1983, which took the song to number 20.
 
LAUGH TRACK:
Do the Funky Chicken by Rufus Thomas
Nothing finishes off a great podcast quite like doing the funky chicken!
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.

With their third studio album Aerosmith really came into their own.  Toys in the Attic would be their most commercially successful studio album in the United States, and would spawn two enduring rock anthems.  
Aerosmith came out of Boston in 1970 with Steve Tyler on lead vocals and harmonica, Tom Hamilton on bass, Joe Perry on guitar, Brad Whitford also on guitar, and Joey Kramer on drums. 
Toys in the Attic was immediately successful and made Aerosmith into international stars.  Their first top 40 hit, "Sweet Emotion," came off this album, and its success encouraged listeners to check out the previous Aerosmith albums, bringing them back onto the charts.  
Flamboyant front man Steve Tyler was often compared with Rolling Stones frontman Mick Jagger, but the resemblance did not carry over to the music.  Aerosmith would tact closer to Led Zeppelin than to the Stones, and would carry high energy vocals and a more funky rock sound.
If you're ready for some hard rocking mid-70's jams, then “WALK THIS WAY!”
 
Toys in the Attic
This driving title track refers to someone who is completely crazy - similar to phrases like bats in the belfry, or an elevator that doesn't stop on all floors.  "Leaving the things that are real behind, leaving the things that you love from mind."
Walk This Way
This iconic song about a teenage boy losing his virginity to a promiscuous cheerleader got its name from a scene in the Mel Brooks comedy "Young Frankenstein."  This track was where Aerosmith really exploded onto the scene.  The lyrics are almost a rap with their speed, and it would become a true rap song with Run D.M.C.'s cover.
Big Ten Inch Record
A throwback boogie written in 1952 by Bull Moose Jackson, the double entendre actually refers to vinyl records which were originally 10-inch, 78 rpm.  Aerosmith kept the cover faithful to the original big band feel.  Steven Tyler's harmonica work is prominent in this track.
Sweet Emotion
Another epic track, the lead "talking guitars" announce something different.  The song expresses Tyler's frustration with the band and tensions with the band member's wives and girlfriends.  This is one of the songs that Van Halen covered in their early days.  
 
ENTERTAINMENT TRACK:
Theme from the television series “Kung Fu”
David Carradine was Kwai Chang Caine, a refugee from China in the American west in the television show, which ended in this month.
 
STAFF PICKS:
“Don't Call Us, We'll Call You” by Sugarloaf
Wayne's staff pick was inspired by the experience of the band with CBS records.  No one would call them back.  After they became famous, they turned the tables on the record companies who now wanted to talk to them.  You'll hear riffs from The Beatles and Stevie Wonder embedded in the song.
“Amie” by Pure Prairie League
Bruce features a breakup song originally released on their second album in 1972.  It did not do well when first released, but gained popularity as an album cut on college radio stations, and was re-released as a single in 1975.  On the original album the song is preceded by a short song entitled "Falling In and Out of Love," which is reprised at the end of "Amie."  You occasionally hear these together on the radio.
“Philadelphia Freedom” by Elton John
Rob's staff pick was a single without an album when it came out.  Elton John was friends with Billie Jean King, who was part of the Philadelphia Freedoms professional tennis team at the time.  This song was written as a tribute to her and the team.  "'Cause I live and breathe this Philadelphia freedom."  
“No-No Song” by Ringo Starr
Brian brings us a lighthearted song from the former Beatle drummer, giving us a whimsical anti-drug message.  "No, no, no, no, I don't smoke it no more...I'm tired of waking up on the floor!"
LAUGH TRACK:
“Dynomite” by Tony Camillo's Bazuka
We finish off this week with a track inspired by "Good Times" and J.J. Walker's catch phrase.
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.

Introducing Herman’s Hermits is the the debut album for the band Herman’s Hermits.  Front man Peter Noone was an actor on "Coronation Street," a British TV soap opera.  The resemblance between Noone and a character named Sherman (from the Rocky and Bullwinkle cartoon) was noted, and this name was shortened to "Herman."  The group would start using the name "Herman and His Hermits," and this was also shortened to "Herman's Hermits."
Herman's Hermits were a part of the British Invasion of the early 60's, which included acts like the Dave Clark 5, The Merseybeats, and of course The Beatles.  In fact, the group was curated to appeal to American audiences, with a non-threatening clean cut image very different from that of other rock bands like the Rolling Stones and The Who.  In addition to their music, the band also appeared in several MGM-produced movies at the time, including the 1968 film, "Mrs. Brown You've Got a Lovely Daughter."  
This was a very popular band in the early 60's, posting 12 top-10 songs by the middle of the decade.  By 1968, however, music tastes had changed, and Herman's Hermits lost popularity in the United States.  They did see a resurgence in the 80's, and toured in the oldies circuits at the time, though with a different lead singer since Peter Noone left the band in 1971.
Peter Noone still tours today, and this would be a great act to catch when he comes to your town. 
 
Mrs. Brown, You've Got A Lovely Daughter
The English accent is exaggerated in this song, a departure from the more common attempts to downplay accents.  "Make a bloke feel so proud!"  This was not intended to be a single, but it went to number 1 on the charts.  The Chipmunks covered this song in 1965 as well.
Show Me Girl
This deeper cut was co-written by Carole King and went to number 19 in the UK.  "So if you really care and you're not just wasting my time, come on and show me girl."
Henry the 8th
Another song that promotes the English accent, the name is pronounced, "En-e-ry" in the Cockney style.  It is a 1910 British music hall song, but in 1965 it became the fastest-selling song in history.  Herman's Hermit took it to number 1, beating out the Rolling Stones "Satisfaction."  Interestingly, this is not about Henry VIII, king of England, but about the 8th Henry to marry the widow next door.
I'm Into Something Good
This is another song penned by Gerry Goffin and Carole King, it is surprising that it only reached number 13 despite its enduring popularity.  King was inspired by the work of The Beach Boy's Brian Wilson when she wrote this song.  It tells of a new love.
 
ENTERTAINMENT TRACK:
Theme from the television series “Lost In Space”
This science fiction series was playing at the time.  "Danger, Will Robinson!"
 
STAFF PICKS:
“The Boy from New York City” by The Ad Libs
Bruce brings us a doo-wop quintet from Bayonne, New Jersey.  Though they continued to record into the 80's, The Ad Libs would only post this hit at number 8 from February 1965.  The Manhattan Transfer took a cover version to number 7 in 1981.  And The Darts took it to number 2 in the UK in 1978.
“You've Lost That Lovin' Feelin’” by The Righteous Brothers
Rob's pick also features a song well known from its cover version, this time from 1980 by Hall & Oates.  According to BMI the original and/or its cover versions was the most played song on American radio and TV for 22 years until 2019, when it was usurped by Sting's “Every Breath You Take.”
“All Day and All of the Night” by The Kinks
Brian's staff pick was influenced by a previous Kink's song “You Really Got Me.”  In turn, it also heavily influenced The Doors “Hello, I Love You.”  A young session guitarist, Jimmy Page, is rumored to have played on it, though Davies denied it.
“The Midnight Special” by Johnny Rivers
Wayne also brings us a song better known by its cover, this time covered by Credence Clearwater Revival.  Johnny Rivers had this folk song in the top 20 in 1965, but the original was recorded in 1905.  It talks about the dreams of prisoners to be on the midnight train.
 
COMEDY TRACK:
“Jolly Green Giant” by The Kingsmen
This comedic track is based on the Jolly Green Giant of green beans fame.
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.

Although commonly called Chicago II, this album is technically the first Chicago album because their first album was under the name The Chicago Transit Authority.  They changed their name in 1969 under pressure from the municipal governmental body called the Chicago Transit Authority.
Chicago II is a double album, full of jams and their trademark horns.  The first four albums would all be double albums.  We're going to feature two songs from this album, although one is actually a seven part song cycle with at least two parts you will identify as well known singles.
Chicago is: Peter Cetera on bass and vocals, Terry Kath on guitar and vocals, Robert Lamm on keybards and vocals, Lee Loughane on trumpet and flugelhorn, James Pankow on trombone, Walter Parazaider on saxophones and flute, and Danny Seraphine on drums.
Chicago describes itself as “rock and roll with horns,” though it is a fusion of many types of music, part hard rock, part jazz, part prog rock, part soft rock, maybe even a little classical music for good measure.  Whatever you call it, we enjoy the variety and depth, and hope you will too.
 
Ballet for a Girl in Buchanan
This is a seven movement song cycle written by trombonist James Pankow.   The namesake girl is Terry Heisler, Pankow's ex fiancee who was attending West Virginia Wesleyan College in Buckhannon, West Virginia at the time.  Pankow wrote the piece in an attempt to get her back, and also because of his inspiration from classical music song cycles.
Movement 1:  Make Me Smile
Terry Kath is on lead vocals for this movement.  You have likely heard the single on the radio, which is created by splicing the first movement and the last movement together.
Movement 2:  So Much to Say, So Much to Give
This movement features Robert Lamm on lead vocals.
Movement 3:  Anxiety's Moment and Movement 4:  West Virginia Fantasies
The third and fourth movements are instrumental tracks, and rather straightforward prog rock concepts.
Movement 5:  Color My World
Terry Kath returns to lead vocals on a piece that should be familiar as its own single.  Frank Sinatra supposedly wanted to record a version of the song if Pankow would write an additional verse.  Pankow declined, so we have the song as a long piano intro, one verse, and a flute solo.
Movement 6:  To Be Free
This instrumental has a distinct 1970's feel to it, and builds to the final movement.
Movement 7:  Now More Than Ever
The final movement is a reprise of the theme from the first movement, Make Me Smile.  You will recognize this from the single.
25 or 6 to 4
We can't do a Chicago album without catching Peter Cetera on lead vocals somewhere.  Robert Lamm wrote this song about trying to write a song in the middle of the night - 25 or 26 minutes before 4 a.m. (who really knows?)
 
ENTERTAINMENT TRACK:
Theme from "M*A*S*H" 
The motion picture M*A*S*H appeared in January 1970.  Only one of the actors from the motion picture would reprise his role in the television series - Gary Rich Burghoff, aka Radar O'Reilly.
 
STAFF PICKS:
“My Baby Loves Lovin'” by White Plains
Wayne's staff pick is a bubble gum pop hit from the one hit wonder group, White Plains.  “She's got what it takes, and she knows how to use it.”  Lead vocalist Tony Burrows had 5 hits, all with different one hit wonder groups.  
“Come Together” by The Beatles 
Rob features the well-known psychedelic hit from the Fab Four.  It was inspired by a request from Timothy Leary to write a campaign song for his California gubernatorial run against Ronald Reagan.  While Lennon couldn't come up with a campaign song, he did create this one using a Leary quote — “come together.”
“Up On Cripple Creek” by The Band
Brian's cranks up the swamp rock that references his hometown Lake Charles, Louisiana.  Robbie Robertson wrote this song about a mountain man and a girl named Bessie.  “A drunkard's dream if I ever did see one!”
“I Want You Back” by the Jackson 5
Bruce's staff pick introduces the first hit from the kid who would become the King of Pop.  This would start a string of 4 singles what would be consecutive number 1 hits.
 
INSTRUMENTAL TRACK:
“969 (The Oldest Man)” by The Guess Who
We wind up this week's episode with an instrumental blues number from the album American Woman.
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.

I can tell what you're thinking:  really, What the Riff?  The Go-Go's?  That's not rock, that's pop!  Well we'll agree that their debut album Beauty and the Beat was quite popular, but the group has its roots in the punk movement, not pop music.
With Belinda Carlisle on lead vocals, Charlotte Caffey on lead guitar and keyboards, Gina Schock on percussion, Kathy Valentine on bass, and Jane Wiedlin on rhythm guitar, The Go-Go's were the first and (so far) only all female band to hit the top of the charts writing their OWN songs and playing their OWN instruments.
Their inspiration comes from punk stalwarts like Iggy Pop and The Sex Pistols, and the band was formed before the members actually knew how to play their instruments.  They established a reputation in the L.A. punk scene and were eventually signed by I.R.S. Records.  Beauty and the Beat combines Punk sensibilities with the upcoming New Wave sound of the early 80's, and the result was both critically and popularly well received.  The Go-Go's would be nominated for the Best New Artist Grammy in  1982, and Beauty and the Beat would spend 6 weeks atop the Billboard 200 chart.
So it is OK to rock out to The Go-Go's.  But don't worry if you're embarrassed.  We won't tell.  Our lips are sealed!
 
We Got the Beat
This is the song that started it all for The Go-Go's.  Penned by guitarist and keyboardist Charlotte Caffey, it gained popularity as a demo in the UK in 1980.  They were invited to tour with the group Madness at that time, and it's distinctive percussion beat is iconic.
Our Lips Are Sealed
“Pay no mind to what they say.  It doesn't matter anyway.”  This was the first track on the album and the lead U.S. single.  It's pop orientation is also atypical for the group, and The Go-Go's were unenthusiastic about doing the video.  The perky, fresh image was very different from their roots.
Can't Stop the World
This deeper cut sounds a little more new wave than the hits off the album.  Kathy Valentine's bass licks are prominent on this track.  The lyrics are good advice for today.  “Things will be alright.  Can't stop the world.”
Automatic
This minor key track has a mysterious vibe to it.  This song is played in the background on a documentary on The Go-Go's discussing the darker side of the group.  There are some cool pauses in the middle of this track.
 
ENTERTAINMENT TRACK:
The William Tell Overture (Main Theme from "The Legend of the Lone Ranger")
One of the biggest box office failures hit the cinemas this month, and both the star and director of the movie would not respectively act and direct again.
 
STAFF PICKS:
Swords & Tequilla  by Riot
Wayne's staff pick cranks out the rock.  Heavy Metal band Riot is out of New York City, and unfortunately didn't catch the fame that later hair bands would gain.  This is from their album Fire Down Under.  The lead singer was killed in Atlanta when shot during an attempted carjacking. 
Ain't Even Done with the Night by John Cougar
Brian brings us an early hit from the album “Nothin' Matters, and What If It Did” by John Cougar.  Cougar - soon to revert back to John Mellencamp - was an observational writer, and so his songs are not autobiographical.  “It's time to go home, and I ain't even done with the night.”
Find Your Way Back   by Jefferson Starship
Bruce's staff pick is off Modern Times, the sixth album by Jefferson Starship, and the second with Mickey Thomas on lead vocals.  This song is about regret at leaving a relationship.  The chorus comes back to the theme, “find your way back to her heart.”
Somebody's Knockin'  by Terri Gibbs
Rob finishes us off with a crossover country song from from talented and blind Georgia native Terri Gibbs.  This song hit number 13 on the pop charts.  “Lord it's the devil, would you look at him?  I've heard about him, but I never dreamed he'd have blue eyes and blue jeans.”
 
INSTRUMENTAL TRACK:
Primera Invasion by Santana
This instrumental track showcases the talents of Carlos Santana, who had an album on the charts at the time.
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.

The Allman Brothers Band recorded their third album live in March 1971 over two days.  At Fillmore East would become their breakthrough album,  filled with enough blues-rock jams  to make it a double, despite the fact that there were only seven songs in total.  Brothers Duane and Gregg Allman realized that their strength was rooted in their live shows, and determined that the best showcase for them would be a live album.
The band features Gregg Allman on vocals, piano, and organ, Duane Allman and Dickey Betts on guitars, Berry Oakley on bass guitar, and Butch Trucks and Jai Johanny Johanson on percussion.  The band was unusual in having both two lead guitar players and two percussion players.
At Fillmore East went gold about 3 months after its release.  Unfortunately, Duane Allman died in a motorcycle accident in Macon at the height of the album's popularity in October 1971.   Only 13 months later bassist Barry Oakley also died in a motorcycle accident only 3 blocks away from the place where Duane had died.  
Friend of the show Andy Burt features this classic album.
 
Statesboro Blues
This track opens the album, and was written in 1928 by Blind Willie McTell.  The blues group Taj Mahal recorded a version of the song in 1968, and this inspired Duane Allman to perform the song and to play it on the slide guitar.  The slide Allman used was a glass vial originally containing cold medicine!
Hot'lanta
This instrumental song is a deeper cut that gets its name from a nickname for Atlanta.  Gregg and Duane Allman got their start in Hourglass (which we previously featured), but were not well suited to work in a pop group.  Hot'lanta was never recorded in a studio, but was only recorded live.
In Memory of Elizabeth Reed
Another instrumental, this song was a jam based off a track from their second studio album.  You get a sense of their jazz influences here, both from Miles Davis and John Coletrane.  The song was written for a girl with whom Dickie Betts had an affair.  Not wanting to name her, Betts took the name from a tombstone in the Rose Hill Cemetery in Macon, Georgia.
Whipping Post
Perhaps the most famous track on the album, Whipping Post takes up an entire album side.  Jerry Oakley wrote the riff, and Gregg Allman wrote the lyrics.  The idea is of a man betrayed  by a woman who feels completely helpless.  The complex meter is unusual for a blues rock band, and shows the versatility and fusion characteristics of the band.  
 
ENTERTAINMENT TRACK:
The theme from the motion picture “Shaft” by Isaac Hayes
Who is the man that would risk his neck for his brother, man?  (Shaft)  Can ya dig it?
 
STAFF PICKS:
“Hot Pants” by James Brown
Brian keeps the music Georgia-based with his staff pick from the Godfather of Soul.  The official name of this song is "Hot Pants (She Got to Use What She Got to Get What She Wants)," and this is part 1 of a 3-part funk song.  Parts 2 and 3 appeared on the B-side of the single for part 1.  
“Love the One You're With” by The Isley Brothers
Rob brings us a soulful cover of the Stephen Stills song you've likely heard before.  The Isley Brothers would take this version to number 3 on the R&B charts, and it was their 5th top 40 single. The Isley Brothers got their start in the 50's, and brought a fusion approach to gospel harmonies.
“Smiling Faces Sometimes” by The Undisputed Truth
Wayne's staff pick continues the soulful tact with this psychedelic soul production.  The Undisputed Truth was known for their unusual costumes and makeup, predating the glam-rock trend.  Beware of the handshake that hides the snake.  Can you dig it?
“Riders on the Storm” by The Doors
Andy finishes off the staff picks with this song inspired by “Ghost Riders in the Sky.”  The dark lyrics were inspired by serial killer Billy Cook, who killed six people while hitchhiking in California.  This single was released just before Jim Morrison died in Paris.
 
INSTRUMENTAL TRACK:
“K-Jee” by The Nite-Liters
This instrumental hit was on the charts at the time, and would make a re-appearance on the disco motion picture “Saturday Night Fever.”
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 1977 Leonard Mogel began publishing a dark, illustrated, steampunk, and somewhat erotic science fiction and fantasy magazine called Heavy Metal, and in 1981 an adult animated sci-fi fantasy film by the same name was produced by Mogel and Ivan Reitman.  The film would become a mainstay of the midnight movie circuit (along with “the Rocky Horror Picture Show”) throughout the 1980's, and would also lead to a hit album which would peak at number 12 on the Billboard 200 chart.
The movie mirrors a comic book, in that it strings together a number of shorter vignettes into an entire animated movie.  The shorts are loosely held together by the frame of the Loc Nar, an orb that is the ultimate evil.
Filled with terrific rock tracks, the soundtrack would become mired with legal issues, causing the CD to not be released until 1995.  If you wanted to hear it before that, you needed to buy the LP.
We're only giving you a taste of this album, folks.  You really should download and listen to it in its entirety.  
Friend of the show Andy Burt stands in for Bruce in this one way ticket to midnight.
 
Heavy Metal (Takin' a Ride) by Don Felder
This is the title track by once and future Eagles alumnus Don Felder.  Fellow Eagles alumni Don Henley and Timothy B. Schmit also contribute backing vocals. The track would be the only Felder solo effort to chart, appearing at number 43.  The music is associated with the film episode entitled B-17. 
Veteran of the Psychic Wars by Blue Oyster Cult
Penned by Eric Bloom and British author Michael Moorcock, this song appears in the story entitled Harry Canyon.  John Candy voices the Sergeant in this segment. The song itself reflects a futuristic soldier exhibiting PTSD.    
Heavy Metal by Sammy Hagar
“Headbangers in leather!”  This song was written for the movie.  “It's a one-way ticket to midnight!  Cal it - Heavy Metal.”  This iconic track is played in the segment called So Beautiful & So Dangerous.
The Mob Rules by Black Sabbath
The short entitled Taarna contains this track.  Ronnie James Dio is the front man for this iteration of Black Sabbath.  "If you listen to fools, the mob rules."  This is the concluding vignette from the film.
“Reach  Out” by Cheap Trick
Wayne  doubles up with his out-of-order staff pick, from the Heavy Metal Soundtrack.  This track also takes place in the Taarna vignette.
 
ENTERTAINMENT TRACK
“Bad Moon Rising” by Credence Clearwater Revival
"An American Werewolf in London" was on the big screen at this time, with some amazing special effects in this day.  CCR contributed this song as the theme of the film.
 
STAFF PICKS:
“Gemini Dream” by The Moody Blues
Brian's staff pick comes from a synthesizer heavy hit from prog rock superstars The Moody Blues.  It hit number 12 on the charts, and comes from their album "Long Distance Voyager."   Justin Hayward and John Lodge co-wrote this song. 
“Really Wanna Know You” by Gary Wright
Rob brings us another synth-heavy hit from the artist best known for "Dreamweaver."  Wright worked closely with ex-Beatle George Harrison, and developed an affinity for eastern religion which permeates his music.
“Hold on Tight” by E.L.O.
Guest Andy finishes off our staff picks with this somewhat Rockabilly boogie number 2 charting track from the Electric Light Orchestra.  It is off their sci-fi themed album “Time.”  At the time, it was the most expensive video produced.  Interestingly, it only hit number 24 in France despite the fact that it has french lyrics in the song.
 
COMEDY/INSTRUMENTAL TRACK:
“Birdy Song” by The Tweets
Bruce gets blamed for this comedy song choice to finish off an otherwise awesome podcast.
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.

We’re headed back down under this week with Australian group Hoodoo Gurus and their third album, Blow Your Cool!  The Gurus formed Sydney in 1981 under songwriter, guitarist, and lead singer Dave Faulkner. The group was fleshed out by Richard Grossman on bass, Mark Kingmill on drums, and Brad Shepherd on guitar, harmonica, and vocals.  Hoodoo Gurus were most popular on college radio, and this album was released at the peak of their popularity. 
The Gurus were influenced by B movies and pop culture of the 60's, and the similarity to the B-52's is clear.
Friend of the show Joel Nabors brings us this album, which he heard at Auburn on WETL.  Enjoy this trip back to “college in the 80's!”
 
Party Machine
 This upbeat song features Brad Shepherd on harmonica, and is a song about getting paid, having no obligations for the weekend, and headed out to party.  "Dig my words, it's a happening scene!  Hitch a ride on the Party Machine."
The Middle of the Land
This track is a little more hard rock oriented, with heavy percussion.  It is about evangelical preachers and hypocrisy.  
What's My Scene
A catchy guitar riff starts this song which was the most popular one off the album.  It's about looking at life and love, and wondering when you're time will come.  "Now the stage is set, where's my Juliet, baby?"  
Good Times
This is a fun song which features The Bangles on background vocals.  There was a planned tour co-headlined between the Hoodoo Gurus and The Bangles, but the skyrocketing popularity of The Bangles at the time resulted in the Gurus being the opening act.
 
ENTERTAINMENT TRACK:
The theme from the television series “The Twilight Zone” 
In May 1987, "The Twilight Zone" motion picture director John Landis was found not guilty of involuntary manslaughter in the death of actor Vic Morrow and two child actors, killed in a helicopter accident.
 
STAFF PICKS:
“Holy War” by John Butcher Axis
Wayne's staff pick features a rocking song with an easter feel from New England songwriter John Butcher.  This song describes people who use religion to fight a holy war.  Butcher identified with Jimi Hendrix, and the name Axis comes from the Hendrix album "Axis:  Bold as Love." 
“Midnight Blue” by Lou Gramm
Brian brings us the lead single from Foreigner frontman Lou Gramm's solo debut. "Life is simple.  It's either cherry red, or midnight blue."  Cherry red is everything going well, midnight blue is dark and mysterious.  They lyrics describe a couple who are broken up, but the boy vows to come back again.
“Weapons of Love” by The Truth
Rob's staff pick digs deep from a group formed in 1982.  This is The Truth's best selling single, and the title track from their album of the same name.  Weapons of Love peaked at number 7 on the rock charts. 
“Just Like Heaven” by The Cure
Joel rounds us out this week with a well-known song from another college rock favorite.  It sounds surprisingly upbeat, though still somehow melancholy, from ordinarily dark goth group The Cure.  "Spinning on that dizzy edge.  I kissed her face, I kissed her head."
 
INSTRUMENTAL TRACK:
"Initiation" by Helloween
This instrumental track opens German heavy metal Helloween's album "The Keeper of the Seven Keys:  Part I."
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.

Seattle based Alice in Chains may have been associated with the grunge music for which Seattle was famous at the time, but they departed from the standard grunge scene in many ways. Jar of Flies was actually an EP rather than a standard album, and so was shorter than the extended length albums that many groups were producing during the CD era.  While Alice in Chains had more of a heavy metal sound than many of their contemporaries, this album was their second acoustic EP.  It was also the first EP to ever debut at number one!
Alice in Chains featured Jerry Cantrell on guitars and vocals, Mike Inez on bass and vocals, Sean Kinney on percussion, and frontman Layne Staley on lead vocals.  Kinney and Cantrell formed the group in 1987 with Staley on vocals and original bassist Mike Starr.  Starr would leave the group in 1993 to be replaced by former Ozzy Osbourne bassist Mike Inez.
The band name came from a glam metal group also named “Alice in Chains” which Layne Staley had been in previously.  That group was defunct, so the name was resurrected.  The EP was supposed to simply be a few days' break after touring, but that break turned into over two weeks, and “Jar of Flies” was born. 
 
We hope you enjoy this presentation of WHAT THE RIFF?!? and note that Bruce was out this week, and Fan of the Show, Joel Nabors joins us in his place.
 
Nutshell
This second track from the EP was written by Cantrell, Inez, and Kinney.  The song was the opener when the band performed on MTV Unplugged in 1996.  The dark lyrics are thought to reflect frustration with fame.
I Stay Away
A departure from many of their pieces due to the use of strings, Staley wrote the lyrics after coming out of rehab.  A huge stadium tour was planned after the EP came out, but Staley had relapsed and they had to drop the tour.  This song was nominated for Best Hard Rock Performance Grammy in 1995. 
No Excuses
This is the big hit from the album that you’ll recognize.  Staley and Cantrell create a dissonant vocal duet in this track which also mirrors the dissonance in their relationship.  The song became the first Alice in Chains song to hit number 1 on Billboard's Mainstream Rock Tracks.  Surprisingly, it was not released as a single at the time.
Don't Follow
This deeper cut was penned by Cantrell, who begins on lead vocals, with Staley joining on harmony.  A softer track, this song also drops the percussion and adds a harmonica.  
 
ENTERTAINMENT TRACK:
“Bed of Roses” by The Indians (from the motion picture "Reality Bites")
The soundtrack to this movie overshadowed the movie itself.  Ben Stiller directed and starred in this comedy.
 
STAFF PICKS:
“Going, Going, Gone” by The Posies
Wayne's staff pick is also a deep cut from the soundtrack to "Reality BItes."  The Posies were also from Washington, as was Alice in Chains.  The song has a Smithereens feel, and is considered one of the Generation "un-hits."  The Posies played with Burt Bacharach for the movie "Ausin Powers: International Man of Mystery."
“Under the Same Sun” by the Scorpions
Rob brings us a softer, deeper cut from the Scorpions.  It has an unusual start with a sitar.  This is from their 12th studio album.  Believe it or not, the Scorpions started way back in 1964, and celebrated their 50th anniversary in 2015.  The song is about coming together as one.
“Pincushion” by ZZ Top
Joel Nabors' staff pick features a little ol' band from Texas.  This is off of “Antenna,” their 11th album and first with RCA.  This would be their last song to chart, and spent four weeks at number 1 on Billboard.  “I'm just a pincushion - do everything she ask.”
“Linger” by The Cranberries
Brian brings us an anthem of the 90's.  MTV put this alternative song into high rotation at the time.  Noel Hogan wrote the music, and the original lyrics were written by Niall Quinn, who was previously the lead singer for The Cranberries.  O'Riordan wrote her own lyrics about regret when she joined the group.
 
COMEDY TRACK:
“Whale and Wasp” by Alice in Chains
We finish off this week by going back to Jar of Flies with this instrumental track.
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**NOTE: What the Riff?!? does not own the rights to any of these songs and we neither sell, nor profit from them. We share them so you can learn about them and purchase them for your own collections.

While you may think of Motown when you first hear Wilson Pickett, this sound is neither from Detroit or its counterpart from Philadelphia.  This is from the deep south with the deep soul of the 2 M's - Memphis and Muscle Shoals.  The Exciting Wilson Pickett was Pickett's third studio album and firmly established his credentials as one of the leading lights of Soul music.    
Pickett grew up in Alabama, and like many soul singers at the time he got his start in church.  He had a contentious relationship with his mother who he described as "the baddest woman in my book."  Eventually he went to live with his father - and further honed his singing style - in Detroit.  
Many tracks on this album were recorded at Muscle Shoals with a backup band called The Swampers.  Lynyrd Skynyrd would cite them as they "were known to pick a song or two."  The Swampers would tour with Pickett and form an interracial act during a time when this was unusual..
Wilson Pickett was known by a number of names including "Wild Wilson" or "Wicked Pickett," and was known for his wild lifestyle.  He would have a number of difficulties with alcohol and cocaine over the decades, which would put him in trouble with relationships and the law.  Wilson Pickett was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1991.
Wilson Pickett died of a heart attack in 2006, just weeks shy of his 65th birthday.
 
 
The Land of 1,000 Dances
This song was a minor hit in 1963 for Chris, Kenner, but became a top 10 hit for Pickett.  While he doesn't name 1,000 dances (and the name of the song never appears in the lyrics), he does name 16 including the Pony, The Mashed Potato, and The Twist.  You may remember this song from the movie "Forrest Gump."
Barefootin'
The second track featured in today's podcast is also a remake (originally recorded by Robert Parker), with a faster tempo than the original.  Check out that horn section by The Swampers.
99-1/2 Won't Do
This is a slower track based off a gospel track transitioned to a love song.  "I got to have all your love, night and day.  Not just a little part, but all of your heart, sugar, Ninety-nine and a half just won't do."
In the Midnight Hour
This is a signature song he co-wrote, and also connects with gospel songs - I may meet Jesus soon in the morning, maybe in the midnight hour.  This song was selected for preservation in the National Recording Registry by the Library of Congress for being "culturally, historically, or artistically significant."
 
ENTERTAINMENT TRACK:
Theme from the television series “Gilligan's Island”
This comedy was current in 1966, but we all remember this from reruns on afternoon TV after school.
 
STAFF PICKS:
“Over Under Sideways Down” by The Yardbirds
Bruce brings us a song inspired by Rock Around the Clock by Haley and the Comets.  It came out as a single in May 1966, and was on the charts at the time.  That's Jeff Beck on the lead guitar, and he also plays bass on this track as well.
“Sunny Afternoon” by The Kinks
Rob's staff pick made it to #14 on the Billboard charts.  Brothers Ray and Dave Davies formed The Kinks in 1964, and Ray Davies wrote this song.  It is about the massive taxes that the British Labour party was pushing out under Harold Wilson.
“You Don't Have to Say You Love Me” by Dusty Springfield
Brian's staff pick features his favorite female vocalist from the 1960's.  Springfield heard this tune originally in Italian, and had new lyrics written for it.  She cried when she first heard this song with the new lyrics.  A number of artists covered this song, including Elvis Presley.
“Sweet Young Thing” by The Chocolate Watchband
Wayne features an American garage band from California, who sing about a Peeping Tom spotting his “sweet young thing” at a party.  Wayne found this group off a compilation album called  Nuggets:  Original Artyfacts from the First Psychedelic Era 1965-1968.
 
INSTRUMENTAL TRACK:
“Jeff's Boogie” by The Yardbirds
This instrumental from the B-side of “Over Under Sideways Down” wraps us up this week's podcast.
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.

By the time they released their seventh studio album, Out of the Blue,  British rock band E.L.O., also known as the Electric Light Orchestra was a successful machine for rock hits with a “Beatleseque Pop” sound.  The Beatles connection was not random, as guitarist and founding member Roy Wood wanted to introduce strings, violins, cellos, basses, horns and woodwinds to Rock music, and “pick up where the Beatles left off.”  ELO was formed by Wood on guitar, Bev Bevan on drums, and Jeff Lynne on  vocals and guitars.  Over time Lynne would become  synonymous with the group.  
Out of the Blue is a double album written by Jeff Lynne in less than a month.  He was staying in a chalet in the Swiss Alps and couldn't come up with any songs during several weeks of dreary weather.  One day the sun came out, and an incredible burst of creativity came upon Lynne as a result.  The album makes extensive use of strings, and also a vocoder to produce unusual sounds.  The album was accompanied by a tremendous special effects-laden stage show and tour.  
Jeff Lynne acquired the rights to the name Electric Light Orchestra from co-founder Bev Bevan in 1999, and tours as Jeff Lynne's ELO today.
Sit back and enjoy - “there ain't a cloud in sight!”
 
Turn to Stone
This track opens the album.  Jeff Lynne stated in a Rolling Stone interview that this is one of his most favorite songs — he loves the "shuffle beat."  It was the first singe from the album, and reached number 13 on the US Billboard chart.
Wild West Hero
This is a deeper cut from the album, with a softer, wistful sound and great harmonies.  Westerns were a popular genre when Lynne was growing up.  The band's cello player played the honky tonk piano.  Supposedly Jeff Lynne wrote this in 4 minutes.
Standin' in the Rain
Side three of the double album is subtitled “Concerto for a Rainy Day,” with four tracks about the weather.  This deeper cut leads off the concerto, and you can hear a vocoder about 30 seconds in, with a thunder crackle voicing the words "Concerto for a Rainy Day."
Mr. Blue Sky
This well known song is the final track from “Concerto for a Rainy Day,” at which point the sun comes out.  The major key and fast pace give this song an amazingly optimistic feel.  Rob wants this played at his funeral — “Never mind I’ll remember you this way.”  
 
ENTERTAINMENT TRACK:
“That's All Right” Elvis Presley
The last concert recorded by The King before his death was broadcast in this month.  Elvis had passed two months earlier in August 1977.
 
STAFF PICKS:
Brick House by The Commodores
Bruce's staff pick started as a jam originated by bassist Ronald LaPread.  Producer James Carmichael challenged the band to turn it into a song.  Band member William King brought it home and his wife, Shirley Hanna-King wrote the lyrics based off the expression “built like a brick $#@!-house.”  Drummer Walter “Clyde” Orange sings lead instead of their normal front man, Lionel Ritchie, because the band thought he had the right funky voice for it.
Strawberry Letter 23  by The Brothers Johnson
Brian keeps up the R&B flavor with this Quincy Jones' produced song.  It tells the story of the 23rd love letter between two lovers.
Whips and Furs   by The Vibrators
You can count on Wayne for a deeper punk cut.  He discovered this on a compilation album.  Good new-fashioned rock! 
Isn't It Time  by The Babys
Rob's staff pick was penned by Babys bass guitarist Jack Conrad and songwriter Ray Kennedy.  It is Kennedy's story about falling in love with a Mademoiselle.  The song alternates between a soft and hard rock sound, and the chorus goes back and forth between the left and right channels.  “I just can't find the answers to the questions that keep going through my mind, Hey Babe...isn't it time?”
 
INSTRUMENTAL TRACK:
The Iron Dream by Hawkwind
We finish off this week's podcast with a prog rock instrumental piece.
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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.