What the Riff Next Gen

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.
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.

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.
 
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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?!?”
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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.

Most bands make their first album the eponymous one, but Genesis waited until their twelfth studio album to name it  Genesis.  This one continues the trend toward pop that started with "Abacab" and "Three Sides Live," but maintains the prog rock and art rock connections of their roots.  By this time Genesis consisted of Mike Rutherford on keyboards, Tony Banks on guitar, and Phil Collins on drums and lead vocals.  Collins would become a celebrity shortly after this album was released.
Folks, there's not a bad song on this entire album.  We hope you enjoy this salute to Genesis as much as we enjoyed making it.
“Home By the Sea”
This deep cut tells the story of a burglar who unwittingly breaks into a haunted house, and is subjected to the stories "As we relive our lives in what we tell you."  The album cut for this song drifts into a largely instrumental and percussion piece called "Second Home By the Sea."
“Illegal Alien”
Phil Collins dons a fake accent for this political but tongue in cheek take on the American immigration situation in 1983.  The bridge consists of a sample of street sounds.  "Over the border there lies the promised land where everything comes easy.  You just hold out your hand."
“Job to Do”
This rocking deep cut has a keyboard sound more reminiscent of Abacab.  Collins would pull away from intensely focusing on Genesis to spend more time with family after this album.  Genesis is unusually talented at the transitions in their songs.
“Silver Rainbow”
This low key track has a lot of fantasy and prog rock elements.  "But if you're sitting there beside her and a bear walks in the room, and you keep on going, 'cause you're unaware..."
ENTERTAINMENT TRACK:
R.E.M. - Radio Free Europe  R.E.M. made their debut on the David Letterman show this month.
STAFF PICKS:
“It Must Be Love” by Madness
Brian's staff pick is from the group better known for "Our House."  This song received some air play on radio and video, but Madness was much more popular in the UK.
 
“Promises, Promises” by Naked Eyes
This first wave, synth-driven song screams early 80's.  Naked Eyes formed after the breakup of the band "Neon."  The other members of "Neon" formed the group "Tears for Fears."
 
“Monkey On Your Back” by Aldo Nova
Bruce's staff pick is from Canadian singer and producer Aldo Nova, and tells a story of lives destroyed by drugs, "a dragon that bites a hole in his arm at night."
 
“Mirror Man” by the Human League
Rob continues the synth pop trend of this week.  The Human League sang with a British accent, somewhat unusual in the music of the time.  The Human League still tours today.  The Mirror Man was revealed to be Adam Ant many years after the song's release.
 
LAUGH TRACK:
“Far From Over” by Frank Stallone
This is the only top 10 song from "Staying Alive," the underwhelming sequel to “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.

Yes, those bearded wonders, the trio of ZZ Top would find their breakthrough hit in LaGrange off their third album entitled Tres Hombres. With Billy Gibbons on guitar, Dusty Hill on bass, and Frank Beard (ironically the only member without a beard) on drums, ZZ Top would begin their climb to stardom via Texas blues/rock with this album. ZZ Top started in 1969 in Houston, Texas and are still playing together today after 50 years.
​We hope you enjoy this treat from the Texas blues trio as much as we do.
Waitin' for the Bus
Have Mercy! This is the first track on the album, and was inspired by "people watching" at the bus stop.
 
Jesus Just Left Chicago
The second track on the album has no noticeable break from the first, and you will often hear the two played together on the radio. Billy Gibbons said that this song was a gospel-inspired blues number. 
 
Beer Drinkers and Hell Raisers
This hard driving Southern rock piece originated in a stop ZZ Top took one night at a roadside bar near El Paso to avoid a windstorm. 
 
Have You Heard? This deep cut combines gospel and straight blues. Both Billy Gibbons and Dusty Hill were offered $1 million to shave their beard, and they turned the money down. George W. Bush declared May 15th, 1997 "ZZ Top Day" as governor of Texas.
ENTERTAINMENT TRACK:
Theme from "Match Game"
We're pretty sure the entire crew of this game was toasted the entire time.
STAFF PICKS:
“Walk Like a Man” by Grand Funk
Wayne's staff pick was a hit from the album "We're an American Band." Grand Funk Railroad had truncated their name to Grand Funk by this time.
“Diamond Girl” by Seals & Crofts
Rob features the softer side of rock with his pick, also from a Texas group. There were several hits from Seals and Crofts during the 70's.
“Brother Louie” by Stories
Bruce features a funky story about an interracial relationship and the intolerance of the couple's families.
“Give Me Love (Give Me Peace on Earth)” by George Harrison
Brian's pick features Beatles alumnus Harrison in an acoustic-leaning prayer for peace. George Harrison was reluctant to talk to the media, preferring to have his song speak for themselves. 
 
COMEDY TRACK:
“Watergate” by Dickie Goodman
This comedy collage spoofs on the scandal of Watergate and finishes us off for this week.
Thanks for listening to “What the Riff?!?”
NOTE: To adjust the loudness of the music or voices, you may adjust the balance on your device. VOICES are stronger in the LEFT channel, and MUSIC is stronger on the RIGHT channel.
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**NOTE: What the Riff?!? does not own the rights to any of these songs and we neither sell, nor profit from them. We share them so you can learn about them and purchase them for your own collections.

On Sunday, September 15th 2019, Ric Ocasek of The Cars passed away at his townhouse where he was recovering from surgery. This group was a staple of radio and video throughout the later 70's and 80's, and their album Heartbeat City propelled them to super-stardom both with the number of singles off the album and heavy video airplay on MTV.
We covered The Cars' debut album on What the Riff?!? Ep. 28, but it seemed appropriate to make this group the first one we feature twice as a tribute to Ocasek and his work as front man of the group. We hope you enjoy this “Drive” down memory lane and keep Ocasek's family in your prayers.“Magic”
This is one of the five single hits produced by this album. The video featured Ocasek "walking on water" in a pool at the Hilton estate. During the production, the Plexiglas used to facilitate the stunt cracked, dumping Ocasek in the water.
 
“Looking for Love ”
This deeper cut has a more New Wave feel. Ric Ocasek was the songwriter for The Cars. 
 
“You Might Think”
The funny and strange video for this cut is iconic, and beat out Michael Jackson's ultra-successful “Thriller” for MTV Video of the Year.
 
“Heartbeat City”
The title track received radio airplay as the B-side of “You Might Think” in the U.S., but was not actually released as a single. Who is Jackie, and what took her so long?
 
ENTERTAINMENT TRACK:
“The Theme from Friday the 13th” by Harry Manfredini
This month saw the release of the fourth iteration of the Friday the 13th movies was called “The Final Chapter”... but obviously wasn't the end.
 
STAFF PICKS:
“99 Red Balloons” by Nena
This song had two versions, and English language version and a German version. The German version was surprisingly popular in America. The song itself tells the story of worldwide destruction from war initiated after mistaking 99 helium balloons for an aerial attack.
 
“Balls to the Wall” by Accept
The title of Wayne's heavy staff pick references the throttles on a jet fighter. Full throttle is pushing the ball at the top of the throttle all the way forward. It means going full out. Like Nena, Accept is also from Germany.
“Rebel Yell” by Billy Idol
This title track from Idol's second studio album. Though the song is about a one-night stand, the title was inspired by a late night session Idol had with Mick Jagger, Keith Richards, and Ron Wood taking swigs from a bottle of Rebel Yell bourbon whiskey.
“So You Ran” by Orion the Hunter
This group was made up of two artists from the group Boston, and the lead vocalist would actually join Boston to handle lead vocal duties on Boston's fourth album “Walk On” in Brad Delp's absence. This album is kind of hard to find these days — and the song is not on iTunes.
 
INSTRUMENTAL:
“Drive” by the Cars
We finish off this week with an instrumental version of the biggest hit off “Heartbeat City.” This one was originally sung by Benjamin Orr (who died of pancreatic cancer in October of 2000) rather than Ocasek, but the voiceless version seemed appropriate. Rest in peace gentlemen, and thank you for the music!
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 Tooth, Fang, and Claw, the Motor City Madman released this seventh and final album as Ted Nugent's Amboy Dukes​. When they started in the 60's the Amboy Dukes were more popular, but over time Ted Nugent's star would overshadow the group until finally Nugent would go out on his own. Over time, Ted Nugent's personality and politics have become so prominent that it can overshadow his musicianship, and it is good to remember how incredible he is as a guitarist.
​Join us as we explore this hard rocking album.
“Sasha” 
This track is more mellow than what we've come to expect from Nugent. The song is about Ted Nugent's daughter and how her presence affects his outlook.
“The Great White Buffalo”
The lyrics on this track reflect Nugent's passion for both hunting and Native Americans, and reflect the wasteful approach taken by American hunters in the late 19th century towards the buffalo.
“No Holds Barred”
This deeper cut really showcases Nugent's guitar chops. He plays a 1962 Gibson Byrdland, and his style is clear in this straightforward rock song.
“Living in the Woods”
Another deep cut has "classic Ted" lyrics about hunting, outdoor living, and "feeling good, I got my face in the wind." When he was younger, Ted's military father would only buy him a guitar if he promised to practice daily. Clearly the practice paid off!
 
ENTERTAINMENT TRACK:
“The Liberty Bell March” by John Philip Sousa
Any fans of the British comedy show "Monty Python's Flying Circus" will recognize this theme song immediately. The Flying Circus ended its run in the UK in this year, but started a run in the US on PBS in syndication at the same time.
 
STAFF PICKS:
“Can't Get Enough” by Bad Company
Paul Rodgers' distinctive work as lead man of BadCo made the group one of the signature groups of the 70's. This hit single was off their first studio release, and still one of their best.
“Overnight Sensation (Hit Record)” by The Raspberries 
This is the hit off the fourth and last studio release from Eric Carmen and The Raspberries. This Cleveland-based group has great harmonies and piano riffs.
“Billy, Don't Be a Hero” by Bo Donaldson and the Heywoods
Rob's pick is a storytelling song that reflects the anti-war sense that was prominent in the mid-70's. It was also ranked by Rolling Stone as number 8 of the "10-worst songs of the 1970's"
Rock Me Gently” by Andy Kim
Wayne makes a rare decision of a #1 hit song as his staff pick with this soulful, funky effort by Canadian Andy Kim.
INSTRUMENTAL TRACK:
“Pick Up the Pieces” by Average White Band
Another funky hit takes us out this week on an instrumental 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.

Today we take a moment to remember one of our favorite artists, Eddie Money, who passed away yesterday, Friday, September 13, 2019. Nothing fancy, just three songs: Two Tickets to Paradise, Baby Hold On to Me, and I Want to Go Back. We hope you enjoy sharing our memories and remembering the joy that music brings, and the sadness that comes when we lose somebody special. RIP Eddie Money.Thanks for listening to “What the Riff?!?” 
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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.

The fourth Queensrÿche studio album followed what was to become a classic concept album entitled "Operation: Mindcrime." The successor to this prog rock masterpiece would be their most commercially successful release. “Empire” is filled with hard charging, somewhat melancholy metal singles and their subdued masterpiece hit, "Silent Lucidity." In a time when hair bands were waning and grunge had yet to take over, Queensrÿche was a welcome heavy metal/prog rock alternative. We hope you enjoy this exploration of this underrated and talented band.
Another Rainy Night (Without You)
This song was the fifth track and the fifth single from the album. It is a Seattle inspired song about loneliness, and waiting for someone in the rain.
Empire
The title track is about drug and gang warfare. The spoken section is a protest about the amount of spending on law enforcement compared to things like national defense and space exploration.
Silent Lucidity
This is the hit off the album, and Queensrÿche's only entry into the Billboard Hot 100. It is about lucid dreaming, where you realize you are dreaming while still in the dream. "I'm smiling next to you in silent lucidity."
Jet City Woman
This track returns to the theme of loneliness. It was written about Geoff Tate's first wife, who was a flight attendant. Seattle is known as the Jet City.
ENTERTAINMENT TRACK:
“My Blue Heaven” by Fats Domino
This 50's hit was on the soundtrack from the movie "My Blue Heaven," starring Steve Martin, and was based on the life of Henry Hill, a mobster in the witness protection program.
STAFF PICKS:
“Joey” by Concrete Blonde
Rob's staff pick is an early alt rock hit about an alcoholic, loosely based on Mark Moreland from Wall of Voodoo.
“Enjoy the Silence” by Depeche Mode
Brian brings us a dance/electronica hit that was originally intended to be a ballad, but the band picked the tempo up before it hit the album.
“Hard to Handle” by The Black Crows
Wayne had a difficult time finding a staff pick for this month until he located this song from Georgia's own Black Crows. This was a remake of an original from Otis Redding.
“Epic” by Faith No More
This song was controversial, both because of front man Mike Patton's similarity in style to Red Hot Chili Peppers frontman Anthony Kiedis, and because of the use of a fish out of water in their video for the song.
INSTRUMENTAL:
“D.F.W.” by The Vaughan Brothers
This instrumental from Stevie Ray Vaughan and Jimmy Vaughan was on the charts after Stevie Ray Vaughan had died in a helicopter crash.
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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.
Please follow us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/whattheriffpodcast/, and message or email us with what you'd like to hear, what you think of the show, and any rock-worthy memes we can share.
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**NOTE: What the Riff?!? does not own the rights to any of these songs and we neither sell, nor profit from them. We share them so you can learn about them and purchase them for your own collections.

When you list the greatest singer/songwriters of the rock era, it will not be long before the name Jim Croce appears. Rob shares that this fifth and final album entitled “I Got a Name” was posthumously released in December after Croce’s tragic death in an airplane accident in September of 1973. The pilot struck a pecan tree at the end of the runway - the only tree in the area - killing all 5 on board a small plane in Nachez, Louisiana. Croce was the child of Italian immigrants and grew up in south Philadelphia. He got his start playing fraternity parties and coffee houses. We hope you enjoy this feature album from this outstanding folk rock singer-songwriter who passed too soon.
“I Got a Name”
This well known title track was the first single from the album, released the day after Croce's death.
“Lovers Cross”
This song is about the downsides of a relationship in which one partner is too dependent on the other for their happiness. “And bridges are meant for burnin' when the people and memories they join aren't the same.”
“Five Short Minutes”
And this one is a cautionary tale about sleeping with groupies who are too young! “Because five short minutes of lovin' done brought me twenty long years in jail.”
“Working at the Carwash Blues”
This track tells the story of an ex-con who got a job at a car wash after his time in prison. It was the fourth single released. Gonzo did a cover of this song on “The Muppet Show.”
ENTERTAINMENT TRACK:
“The Entertainer” from the movie “The Sting”
This Scott Joplin ragtime song was featured in the blockbuster film "The Sting" starring Robert Redford and Paul Newman.
STAFF PICKS:
“Midnight Train to Georgia” by Gladys Knight & The Pips
This Grammy-winning song was a cover of a song originally entitled “Midnight Plane to Houston,” and Bruce adds, it was inspired by a conversation writer Jim Weatherly had with Farrah Fawcett.
“Smokin' in the Boy's Room” by Brownsville Station
Brian's staff pick is perhaps better known from the Motley Crue cover. It was originally entitled “Smokin' in the Theater,” and was the song that moved Brownsville Station from a regional band to a national one.
“If You Wanna Get to Heaven” by Ozark Mountain Daredevils
Wayne picks a southern country-rock song. The Ozark Mountain Daredevils hailed from Springfield, Missouri, and chose to stick around the state rather than chase a larger audience in Los Angeles or other cities with a larger music scene.
“Hello, It's Me” by Todd Rundgren
Rob's staff pick is one of the big songs from Philly's Todd Rundgren. This song was recorded three different times, this one being his solo hit.
INSTRUMENTAL TRACK:
“Love's Theme” by Love Unlimited Orchestra
We exit this podcast on an instrumental disco hit that was from a group formed by Barry White.
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.

Debuting at #1 on the Billboard 200 chart, Purple would establish the Sone Temple Pilots as a superstar group. This second studio album from San Diego-based STP would continue the grunge sound, but would expand a bit into other styles like psychedelia, country, acoustic, alternative, and mainstream rock. ​Stone Temple Pilots was influenced by Aerosmith, and the band members were fans of Kiss. The band was one of the most commercially successful bands of the 90's. The band was originally known as Mighty Joe Young, but changed the name when another performer laid claim to the name.
Get your grunge on as Rob profiles this hit-laden album.
“Big Empty”
The slide guitar gives this track an interesting mix of country and grunge. This was the first single from the album. It was featured on MTV Unplugged before the album was released.
“Vasoline”
The second single released from the album was also the second most successful track from the album. The name of the song is attributed to a misheard lyric - "Flies in the vasoline" instead of "Life in the Fast Lane" by the Eagles. The song is about being stuck in a place or situation.
“Lounge Fly”
The opening riff of this deeper cut was used on MTV's news breaks in the 90's. Interestingly, STP was voted "best new band" by Rolling Stone readers, and "worst new band" by the critics in the same Rolling Stone magazine.
“Interstate Love Song”
This is THE hit off the album, and what a hit! It was at number 1 for fifteen weeks. It was displaced by “Vasoline” for 2 weeks, keeping Stone Temple Pilots in the number 1 slot for 17 solid weeks. If they sound familiar, the chords are taken from Jim Croce's "I've Got a Name."
ENTERTAINMENT TRACK:
Theme to "The Lion King"
This animated movie from Disney was a huge hit in 1994. Some see strong similarities between this movie and "Kimba the White Lion," a Japanese film from the 60's.
STAFF PICKS:
“Shakermaker” by Oasis
Bruce's staff pick highlights a track off Oasis' debut album. Oasis lost a lawsuit for borrowing "I'd like to teach the world to sing" from the iconic Coca-Cola commercial. Apparently "irony" is not a good legal defense.
“Crazy” by Aerosmith
Steven Tyler and Aerosmith were superstars in the 90's on the strength of songs and videos like this. Alicia Silverstone featured in a number of Aerosmith videos. This one also featured Steven Tyler's daughter Liv Tyler who would go on to star in the "Lord of the Rings" trilogy.
“Selling the Drama” by Live
Wayne's staff pick is the first single off Live's album "Throwing Copper." It is an anti-televangelist song.
“Loser” by Beck
This loose string song has been described as folk based hip-hop. "I'm a loser, baby, so why don't you kill me?" "And my time is a piece of wax falling on a termite that's choking on the splinters."
INSTRUMENTAL TRACK:
“Walking at Night” by Boston
This instrumental track off Boston's "Walk On" closes us out this week.
Thanks for listening to “What the Riff?!?”
NOTE: To adjust the loudness of the music or voices, you may adjust the balance on your device. VOICES are stronger in the LEFT channel, and MUSIC is stronger on the RIGHT channel.
Please follow us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/whattheriffpodcast/, and message or email us with what you'd like to hear, what you think of the show, and any rock-worthy memes we can share.
Of course we'd love for you to rate the show in your podcast platform!
**NOTE: What the Riff?!? does not own the rights to any of these songs and we neither sell, nor profit from them. We share them so you can learn about them and purchase them for your own collections.

This week, Wayne brings us Equinox, the fifth studio album by Styx. This would be their first album for A&M Records and their last album with guitarist John Curulewski. He would be replaced by guitarist and singer Tommy Shaw on their next release, “The Grand Illusion,” at which point Styx would take the form which most of us remember as one of the groups that make up the soundtrack of our childhood. Equinox would only go to #58 on the album charts, but would see a resurgence with the release of The Grand Illusion in 1977.
Midnight Ride
James "JY" Young takes the vocal duties on this track, also written by Young. It is a fast, rocking song about a one-night stand with a groupie.
Lorelai
This track is the biggest hit from the album and features the vocals of both James Young and the distinctive sound of Dennis DeYoung. The name of the album was from a brainstorming session, and “Equinox” was the only name that everyone didn't hate. Lorelai was the name of a water fairy.
Prelude 12
This song is performed and written by John Curulewski. This instrumental on a 12-string guitar is the prelude to Suite Madame Blue, and is often missed when that song is played on the radio or Spotify.
Suite Madame Blue
This well-known epic was written for the US Bicentennial. Wistful yet positive despite its minor key, the song calls for reflection and responsibility. The song was done in one day.
ENTERTAINMENT TRACK:
Theme from "Laverne and Shirley"
This television series spin-off from "Happy Days" would debut in January on ABC.
STAFF PICKS:
“Dream On” by Aerosmith
There is no mistaking the opening riff from this epic pick by Brian. It was originally released in 1973, but had its album re-release in December 1975 and was marching up the charts in January. Steven Tyler was not originally comfortable singing in the higher octaves, but fortunately overcame that fear.
“Island Girl” by Elton Jon
Rob's staff pick was #1 for three weeks, and was the first single from the album "Rock of the Westies." Kiki Dee is on background vocals on this Caribbean-influenced hit.
“50 Ways to Leave Your Lover” by Paul Simon
Bruce's staff pick is the second single off Simon's album "Still Crazy After All These Years." This is Simon's sole #1 hit as a solo artist.
“Tower” by Angel
Wayne cranks things back up with his staff pick from a group discovered by Gene Simmons of Kiss. Angel had a prog rock vibe and dressed in all white during their performances. "Tower" is a medieval themed track.
LAUGH TRACK:
“Convoy” CW McCall
We finish off this episode with this ode to the CB radio. Citizens Band was pretty much the social media app of the 70's.
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.