What the Riff Next Gen

With his third studio album, Girlfriend, alternative rock artist Matthew Sweet saw his career launched to the next level. Although originally from Nebraska, Sweet connected with REM so much that he met up with them and left home to became a part of the music scene in Athens, Georgia. The album cover is of a 50’s actress named Tuesday Weld. The album was written after Sweet went through a divorce, and that may drive some of the creativity exhibited - a kind of therapy for the artist. Join us as Wayne takes us on this tour of pre-grunge alternative rock.
I've Been Waiting
This “power pop” song feels a bit like REM, with whom Sweet found an affinity. The album overall has a “soft grunge” feel, as it fits between grunge and the lighter pop sounds of the day.
Evangeline
This track is based off a character in a comic book. Evangeline is a weapons-wielding nun who works for the Vatican, and the song is told from the perspective of Johnny Six.
Does She Talk
This deeper track has a heavier, blusey sound. "She's just your size, she's sexy, she's beautiful, does she talk? 'Cause, man, you can't teach a slithering snake how to talk."
Girlfriend
This is the #1 hit from the album — and the namesake. Matthew Sweet's songs have been featured on many movies and TV shows, including "Scrubs," Smallville," and "Buffy the Vampire Slayer."
ENTERTAINMENT TRACK:
Theme song from “Ren and Stempy”
Nicktoons premiered this cartoon in August of 1991.
STAFF PICKS:
**Rush - “Roll the Bones” **
Bruce's staff pick is the title song from their 14th studio album. The Roll the Bones album was Rush's biggest success since Moving Pictures, and is built around the concept of chance.
**Van Halen - “Standing on Top of the World” **
Rob features a positive, upbeat song from Van Halen's third studio album with Sammy Hagar as frontman, and the only song off the album to make it to the top 40.
Nirvana - “Smells Like Teen Spirit”
With such a distinctive opening riff, you know it's Nirvana. This monster hit brought to us by Brian is off "Nevermind," the group's second studio album.
Ozzy Osbourne - “I Don't Want to Change the World”
Yes… there was still heavy metal in 1991 between the alternative and the grunge sounds. This track won a Grammy for best Metal Performance.
INSTRUMENTAL/LAUGH TRACK:
**Van Halen - 316 **
This soft instrumental pays tribute to Wolfgang Van Halen who was born on March 16th, 1991, and is now a member of the band.
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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.

February 1984— The Pretenders— “Learning to Crawl”
Coming after a hiatus and the tragedy of losing two band members to drug overdoses, The Pretenders third studio album was perhaps a surprisingly successful endeavor. The name “Learning to Crawl” pays homage to Chrissy Hynde's daughter, Natalie Rae Hynde, who was indeed learning to crawl at the time. There's a sense of loss that comes from this album in tracks like “My City Was Gone” or “Time the Avenger,” but there's also an acknowledgment of more mundane activities in songs like “Watching the Clothes.” This is a great album from one of Rock's strong female leads, and we hope you enjoy it as much as we do.
“Middle of the Road”
This is the first track on the album, and has a bit of a new wave feel. This song was released as a single in 1983, ahead of the album release, as were several tracks off the album. Check out the guitar riff and the harmonica solo on this one.
“Time the Avenger”
This one has a Romantics feel to it. "No one is perfect, not even a perfect stranger." Hynde spent some time in London with groups like The Clash and The Damned.
“Watching the Clothes”
Here's a deeper cut inspired by the death of a friend and spending time in the laundromat.
“My City Was Gone”
Anyone who has heard the Rush Limbaugh program bump music has heard this track. The inspiration for this was Hynde's return to her hometown and the changes she saw over time. “And my pretty countryside had been paved down the middle by a government that had no pride.”
ENTERTAINMENT TRACK:
“Never Say Never” by Romeo Void, from the movie, Reckless
This cult classic was featured in the 1984 movie "Reckless," a movie with a soundtrack that was more popular than the film.
STAFF PICKS:
“What if I’d Been the One” by 38 Special
This Southern Rock track was off of 38 Special's album "Tour de Force." The lyrics are quite depressing despite the upbeat sound of the tune itself. Bruce went local as the album was recorded at Studio One in Doraville, GA.
“Take Me Away” by Blue Oyster Cult
Wayne doesn't disappoint with his rocking pick. This alien abduction track is from the later BOC days. "I lift my eyes and say, 'come on and take me away.'"
“Hyperactive” by Thomas Dolby
“Why don’t you tell me about your childhood...” Rob's staff pick drifts into the techno-pop new wave. Dolby had originally intended this song for Michael Jackson, but after getting no response from the King of Pop, he decided to do it himself.
“I Want a New Drug” by Huey Lewis & the News
Brian closes the staff picks with Huey Lewis's hit off the third album "Sports." This propelled Lewis and the band to super-stardom, and this track was on the top of the pop and dance charts.
INSTRUMENTAL OR LAUGH TRACK:
“The Attitude Song” by Steve Vai
Vai was the lead guitarist for David Lee Roth's band when he went solo. Vai is very well known among guitar artists as a virtuoso, and this instrumental demonstrates why.
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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.

September 1977 — Meat Loaf — “Bat Out of Hell”
Is it Opera? Is it Rock? Is it toxic masculinity - or maybe adolescent half-formed not-too-deep masculinity? From the beginning, Bat Out Of Hell has been hard to define, and it took a long time for Meat Loaf, composer Jim Steinman, and producer Todd Rundgren to get the concept album picked up. However, the staying power of this evergreen album is undeniable, with over 43 million sold to date, and 200,000 albums sold per year even today. If you found that overwhelming, well, you took the words right out of my mouth!
We hope you enjoy our journey into the depths of this so-uncool-its-cool debut studio album.
“Bat Out of Hell”
This opening title track comes in at an epic 9:52 run time, and it is not the only long track. This album is great to hear as a whole. Todd Rundgren does the “motorcycle guitar solo” you’ll hear. Meat Loaf certainly has a distinctive, almost operatic voice.
“Two Out of Three Ain't Bad”
Meat Loaf got his start in theater, and this pop hit single gives credence to his theatrical influence. Meat Loaf won a lot of fans for his role as Eddie in “The Rocky Horror Picture Show.” Several tracks off this album were made into videos, which helped drive the popularity of the album.
“Paradise By the Dashboard Light”
This track is a cheeky take on parking make-out sessions. There is a Rocky Horror feel to this almost comedic multi-movement work. The song is filled with double entendres, plot twists, and a Phil Rizzuto baseball sequence.
ENTERTAINMENT TRACK:
“Theme from CHiPs”
This cop show debuting in 1977 launched Erik Estrada's career
STAFF PICKS:
“In the City” by The Jam
Wayne highlights a British punk band, reminiscent of the Kinks and the Who. While they made a big splash in the UK, they never took off in the States.
“Cat Scratch Fever” by Ted Nugent
Brian shares a pick from the Motor City Madman is easy to identify from the screaming guitar intro. Nugent often took the stage wearing only a loincloth back in the day.
“We Just Disagree” by Dave Mason
Rob's staff pick takes a more mellow direction with the second single released off Mason's album. Great harmonies and a 12-string guitar make this Traffic alum's hit memorable.
“Jungle Love” by the Steve Miller Band
This hit off the tenth studio release from Steve Miller only took only 30 minutes to complete on the last day of recording, says Bruce. "You treat me like I was your ocean - you swim in my blood when it's warm."
LAUGH TRACK:
“Grandmother’s Song” by Steve Martin
Steve Martin's comedy takes us out on this week's podcast.
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NOTE: To adjust the loudness of the music or voices, you may adjust the balance on your device. VOICES are stronger in the LEFT channel, and MUSIC is stronger on the RIGHT channel.
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**NOTE: What the Riff?!? does not own the rights to any of these songs and we neither sell, nor profit from them. We share them so you can learn about them and purchase them for your own collections.

May 1984 — Stevie Ray Vaughan and Double Trouble — “Couldn’t Stand the Weather”
Many consider Stevie Ray Vaughan and Double Trouble to have single-handedly revived the blues in the 1980's. This second album contains both covers and original songs from Vaughan, instumentals, jazz, and of course blues. Couldn't Stand the Weather has a timeless quality to it even 35 years later. And did we mention the strength of Stevie Ray Vaughan's guitar chops? There's not a bad track on this ablum from one of the guitar world's greatest players who was lost before his time.
We hope you enjoy this trip back to the 80's!
“Scuttle Buttin”
This instrumental track opens the album and showcases the phenomenal guitar virtuosity of Stevie Ray Vaughan.
“Couldn't Stand the Weather”
Here is the title track, and a fast-paced boogie-blues number. Stevie Ray Vaughan wrote this song, and about half the tracks on the album. Jimmy Vaughan is on rhythm guitar on this track.
“Voodoo Child (Slight Return)”
This is a great juxtaposition of two world-class guitarists. Jimi Hendrix did this song originally, and Stevie Ray Vaughan's style is amazing on this track.
“Cold Shot”
We finish off this album feature with a straight up blues number originally written by Michael Kindred & WC Clark. Don't let our love go bad!
ENTERTAINMENT TRACK:
“If You Were Here” off the soundtrack from “16 Candles” by the Thompson Twins
If this song doesn’t make you think 1980s, well then...Molly Ringwald finally gets the boy in this John Hughes classic.
STAFF PICKS:
“Sister Christian” by Night Ranger
Rob's piano-driven staff pick was the second single from the album “Midnight Madness.” Drummer Kelly Keagy was inspired to write the song by his sister Christie, and how quickly she had grown up. The title morphed from “Sister Christie” to “Sister Christian.”
“Show Me” by The Pretenders
Brian riffs on this happy tune fromThe Pretenders’ third album and hit “Learning to Crawl.” Show me the meaning of the word - the word is “love.”
“Whisper to a Scream (Birds Fly)” by Icicle Works
In an unusual move, Wayne goes New Wave with his staff pick. This angst-filled one-hit wonder takes you back to MTV at its peak.
“Too Young to Fall in Love” by Motley Crue
Bruce channels perhaps the ultimate hair band — Motley Crue — who truly embraced the sex, drugs, and rock & roll lifestyle. This is the third single off their second album “Shout at the Devil.”
LAUGH TRACK / INSTRUMENTAL:
“Stang’s Swang” by Stevie Ray Vaughan and Double Trouble
We return to Stevie Ray Vaughan in a jazz selection, the last track off their album.
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NOTE: To adjust the loudness of the music or voices, you may adjust the balance on your device. VOICES are stronger in the LEFT channel, and MUSIC is stronger on the RIGHT channel.
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**NOTE: What the Riff?!? does not own the rights to any of these songs and we neither sell, nor profit from them. We share them so you can learn about them and purchase them for your own collections.

July 1992 — Dream Theater — “Images and Words”
Is it Metallica? or Triumph? or Rush? Although “Images and Words” was their second studio album, the addition of James LaBrie as front man makes this album feel like the first complete outing for Dream Theater. While they only have one “hit” in the repertoire, this group is a giant in the progressive rock genre. The musicality of each member of the group gives Dream Theater an ability to take a variety of styles from driving thrash metal to soft ballads to an almost orchestral “wall of sound.” This album is their most commercially successful to date and gives a good sense of their diversity.
“Friend of the Show” John Lynch joins us in Brian's absence as we delve into this prog rock gem from 1992.
“Pull Me Under”
This is the hit off the album. Clocking in at over 8 minutes, a scaled down version hit MTV and gave Dream Theater some exposure to a larger audience. You can see elements of Metallica and Queensryche in this gritty piece.
“Another Day ”
Guitarist John Petrucci wrote this piece while his father was battling cancer. The soprano sax is provided by Jay Beckenstein, co-founder of Spyro Gyra. This is the first piece that attracted Bruce to Dream Theater.
“Surrounded”
Keyboardist Kevin Moore contributed this piece, and you can sense the synthesizer lead pretty strongly. Complex meters typical of prog rock come through, but it's still an accessible piece.
“Wait for Sleep”
This short, beautiful ballad features LaBrie's vocals and Moore's piano work.
ENTERTAINMENT TRACK:
“Birth of a Penguin” from “Batman Returns” by Danny Elfman
The film “Batman Returns” came out in the summer of 1992, and featured a cast of stars including Michael Keaton, Michelle Pfeiffer, and Danny DeVito as the Penguin.
STAFF PICKS:
“Pretend We’re Dead” by L-7
Wayne brings us this all-female punk rock group who dropped this tune on their third and most successful album release. They have quite a past....
“November Rain” by Guns N’ Roses
Rob continues Bruce's bent toward long tracks -- bringing us the longest single that ever made it in the Billboard top 10 - at over 8 minutes! Axl Rose came up with this song in 1983 (apparently what he would play anytime a piano was in front of him) - and it became an epic, multi-layered song in 1992.
“Under the Bridge” by Red Hot Chili Peppers
Friend of the Show John Lynch picks one of his favorite band -- showcasing the single that truly put the Red Hot Chili Peppers on the map. The song is about Los Angeles - the city of Angels.
“The Church of Logic, Sin, and Love” by The Men
Bruce's staff pick focuses on a one-hit wonder with a largely spoken word composition. We had to go to YouTube to find it in a video — which epitomizes many of the stereotypes of the early nineties, including the goatee... and televisions in swimming pools.
LAUGH TRACK:
“Kashmire” by Dixie Dregs
This week's instrumental track returns to a well-known progressive rock theme covered by a strongly talented band with Southern roots. This one was recorded live at Center Stage in Atlanta.
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NOTE: To adjust the loudness of the music or voices, you may adjust the balance on your device. VOICES are stronger in the LEFT channel, and MUSIC is stronger on the RIGHT channel.
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**NOTE: What the Riff?!? does not own the rights to any of these songs and we neither sell, nor profit from them. We share them so you can learn about them and purchase them for your own collections.

August 1969 — Humble Pie — “As Safe as Yesterday is”
Wayne presents this incredible album featuring both Steve Marriott and Peter Frampton on vocals and guitar. It is easy to see how Humble Pie was such a powerful - but underrated - rock band at the end of the 60's. Their debut album “As Safe as Yesterday is” was a UK release, and remains surprisingly hard to pin down in genres with its mix of pop, rock, and blues - it was even one of the first albums to be described as “heavy metal.” Let's take a look at this groundbreaking album and see for ourselves how we would describe it.
“Stick Shift”
Peter Frampton wrote this psychedelic-leaning song, which was the second track on the album. Frampton was 18 years old at the time, and this was his second band.
“Bang ”
This rocking piece leads off side two of the album. Steve Marriott wrote this blues laden, almost southern rock track. By the way, the origins of the phrase "humble pie" are from a peasant's dish of deer innards, though now it is more similar to the phrase "eating crow."
“As Safe as Yesterday Is”
This lengthy title track is one of Wayne's favorite. Frampton's vocals are prominent on this song. Frampton would leave the group in 1971. The drum work is reminiscent of The Who, with moments that sound like Robert Plant and Jethro Tull.
“Natural Born Bugie (Woman)”
This one is very similar to southern Rock, which is interesting given the UK origins of the band. "Looking like the cover of a 20-dollar magazine." Steve Marriott tried to revive Humble Pie in 1991, and had gotten together with Frampton about it when he tragically died from a cigarette fire in bed.
ENTERTAINMENT TRACK:
“The Pusher” by Steppenwolf
The motorcycle cult classic "Easy Rider" was released in 1969, and produced or inspired a number of songs popular at the time, including this very dark blues riff.
STAFF PICKS:
“Marrakesh Express” by Crosby, Stills & Nash
Brian's staff pick was inspired by Graham Nash's trip to Morocco. Nash rode the train from Casablanca to Marrakesh, moving from first class on down to the lower class cars, encountering different types of people and situations along the way.
“One” by Three Dog Night
Rob's staff pick starts with a beat that was inspired by the busy signal on a phone line. This song made it to number 5, and was Three Dog Night's first gold record.
“Polk Salad Annie” by Tony Joe White
Bruce's staff pick takes us to backwoods Louisiana for some swamp rock, and a "poke sallet" - a dish of cooked greens made from a common weed in the southern U.S. Elvis Presley would make this popular as a staple on his tours.
“Questions 67 & 68” by Chicago
Wayne's staff pick hearkens back to the first album from The Chicago Transit Authority - known as Chicago after the governmental organization sued them.
LAUGH TRACK:
“A Boy Named Sue” by Johnny Cash
We finish off this podcast with Johnny Cash's humorous song about a boy who had to grow up with a decidedly feminine name.
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.

October 1973 — “Quadrophenia
By the time this sixth studio album (and second rock opera) rolled out in 1973 The Who were already icons in the Rock genre. The double album Quadrophenia tracks the downward spiral of a young “mod” named Jimmy in 1965 Brighton, UK. Some of the most well known Who songs originate from this rock opera including "The Real Me," and "Love, Reign O'er Me."
We're joined this week by “What the Riff Friend” Tim Andrews from WSB radio and the Radio Labyrinth podcast to co-host as we delve into this giant group and album.
“I’m One”
This song tells the story of one of Jimmy's introspective moments.
“The Punk and the Godfather”
This deep cut showcases that iconic Who sound. Pete Townshend wrote Quadrophenia in its entirety. Keith Moon's percussion work is particularly strong on this track.
“I've Had Enough”
This song ends the 1979 movie, and serves as a fitting finale to Jimmy's story. After losing his job, his girl, and his scooter, he finds that his hero, “Ace Face” (played by Sting) is actually a bellhop in the local resort.
“The Real Me”
Wayne considers this “the ultimate Who song.” This rocker comes with the whole package, especially Daltry's vocals and Entwistle's bass work.
ENTERTAINMENT TRACK:
“Theme from Kojak”
You all remember this 70s cop show with the bald, lollipop-licking detective played by Telly Sevalis? “Who loves ya' baby?”
STAFF PICKS:
“D’Yer Mak’er” by Led Zeppelin
Brian's staff pick highlights this reggae-leaning hit from the album “Houses of the Holy.” The title is a play on words, as it should be properly pronounced similar to “Jamaica.”
“Higher Ground” by Stevie Wonder
Bruce presents this soulful hit from Stevie Wonder's “Innervisions” album. This one references reincarnation.
The Red Hot Chili Peppers covered this song in 1989.
“Live and Let Die” by Wings
Rob highlights this James Bond movie song with lots of tempo changes and full orchestration. Paul and Linda McCartney did this first rendition, and Guns N Roses would cover this song with great success in the 1990's
“Tell Her She’s Lovely” by El Chicano
Wayne brings us a Latin vibe from an artist he recalls from his 1973 past living in California.
LAUGH TRACK:
“Basketball Jones” by Cheech & Chong
Tim brings us this pick highlighting a novelty song from Cheech and Chong. Believe it or not, these awesome artists “chimed in” as well: George Harrison, Billy Preston, Carole King, Michele Phillips, and others who were in the studio at the time. This fun track made it all the way to number 15 on the pop charts.
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.

June 1993 — “Hints, Allegations & Things Left Unsaid” by Collective Soul
Our first Podcast with a special guest. Steve Hardin teams up with Rob to present Stockbridge, Georgia-originating band Collective Soul. They didn't set out to be a world famous band. In fact, frontman Ed Roland wrote what would be the band's debut album as a demo in his basement, hoping to sell songs to others as a songwriter rather than perform songs in his own band. “Hints, Allegations and Things Left Unsaid” would instead become a hit on indie radio (WRAS album 88.5 FM from Georgia State), and the debut album is their demo recording basically untouched. The album cover is originally from a poster for the broadway musical "Sweeney Todd - the Demon Barber of Fleet Street."
“In a Moment”
This was one of many hits from the album. The name of the album is said to have been inspired by lyrics from Paul Simon's song “Call Me Al” - “All along, along, there were incidents and accidents, there were hints and allegations.”
“Goodnight Good Guy”
As Wayne says, “this song bounces.” Check this one out with headphones to appreciate the left-right feel of the music.
“Burning Bridges”
Ed Roland was on lead, and his brother Dean played rhythm guitar. During the 1990's, Collective Soul had a couple of hits every year, becoming an easily recognized group behind the distinctive lyrics of Ed Roland.
“Shine”
You get hints of Roland's Christian upbringing in his lyrics, especially in this song - their biggest hit. The track leads with grunge inspired riffs, and that iconic hook, “yeah!”
ENTERTAINMENT TRACK:
“Theme from Jurassic Park”
Steven Spielberg produced one of the first movies with truly awesome CGI special effects.
STAFF PICKS:
“Whiskey Soul Woman” by Drivin' N' Cryin'
Wayne's pick is from the heavy rocking fifth album "Smoke." Check out the Amazon Prime documentary on Drivin' N' Cryin' entitled "Scarred but Smarter."
“Livin’ on the Edge” by Aerosmith
Brian's staff pick was the first single from the Aerosmith album “Get a Grip.” Guitarist Joe Perry indicated that this track was inspired by the Los Angeles riots
“Shake My Tree Guest” by Coverdale Page
Host Steve Hardin showcases this one. David Coverdale and Jimmy Page collaborate on this hit album with a Led Zeppelin-esque feel.
“Big Gun” by AC/DC
Rob's staff pick to end this podast is straightforward AC/DC. This track is heard on the soundtrack from the Arnold Schwarzenegger movie “Last Action Hero,” and was AC/DC's first number 1 hit on album rock charts in 1993.
LAUGH TRACK:
“Lunch Lady” by Adam Sandler
This laugh track originated from a skit on Saturday Night Live featuring Chris Farley.
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.

February 1973 — “Billion Dollar Babies” by Alice Cooper
Brian presents one of the biggest early 1970's glam rock groups — Alice Cooper. Their sixth studio album entitled “Billion Dollar Babies” was released in 1973, and was their most successful album to this date. Detroit native and front man Vincent Furnier took on the “Alice Cooper” persona for this highly theatrical act, complete with makeup, tuxedo, and top hat. The title of the album is a tongue in cheek look at the rise of the band itself — referring to themselves as "Billion Dollar Babies."
Come along as we dig into this exceptionally entertaining and well-produced glam rock band.
“Hello Hooray”
This opening song was recorded earlier by Judy Collins, and the band intended it to be “Alice Cooper meets cabaret.”
“Elected”
This driving piece is the second single released from the album, and is a satirical look at the election process. It is a rewrite of their earlier song from 1969 entitled "Reflected." There's a surprisingly good horn section in there as well.
“Billion Dollar Babies”
The title track reflects their success in such a short period of time. Take a listen to this one in stereo or headphones to get the full effect.
“No More Mr. Nice Guy”
“No more Mr. cle-e-e-ean!” This song is the most popular track off the album. Amazingly, the shock rock front man appeared on The Muppet Show to sing this back in the day!
ENTERTAINMENT TRACK:
“Dueling Banjos” — from the movie “Deliverance”
This Burt Reynolds movie was filmed on the Chattooga River in Georgia, and may be one of the most notable banjo riffs of all time. The movie was released in 1972 and was still popular in 1973.
STAFF PICKS:
“Dancing in the Moonight” by King Harvest
Bruce shares this one-hit wonder sung by a Paris-based American group. It has that smooth, folk oriented sound that was quite popular back in the day. It could be an undercover werewolf song - jury's still out on that.
“The Night the Lights Went out in Georgia” by Vicki Lawrence
Rob’s a fan of the Carol Burnette show, and this was sung by comiedienne Vicki Lawrence. Her husband wrote the song, and when he was turned down by some famous female vocalists, Lawrence took it on, and took it to the top of the charts.
“My Woman from Tokyo” by Deep Purple
Wayne's rocking and riffing on this one. Although a big hit for Deep Purple, the band didn't like the song. It never actually came out as a single, and the band didn't play the song in concert until 1986.
“Walk on the Wildside” by Lou Reed
Brian closes out staff picks with this controversial art rock hit profiling alternate lifestyles in New York City. This is off Reed's second solo album, and the backing vocals are performed by a group called the Thunder Thighs.
LAUGH TRACK:
“Dead Skunk” by Loudon Wainwright III
This fun song is an ode to an odor we have all experienced on a country road. “I one'd it...I two'ed it...
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.

January 1978 — “Champagne Jam” by Atlanta Rhythm Section
Bruce has a special place in his heart for this classic. The Atlanta Rhythm Section - also known as ARS - started as a session band for Studio One in Doraville, GA. Champagne Jam is their eighth and most successful album, going platinum by September of 1978. This was a time when Southern Rock was hitting a peak with Lynyrd Skynyrd, Molly Hatchett, The Charlie Daniels Band and others. ARS crafted a more laid back style within the genre on the strength of Ronnie Hammond's vocals.
Join us as we explore this local Atlanta favorite. By the way, the Atlanta Rhythm Section is still touring as of now, and you are especially likely to catch them at one of the metro-Atlanta venues.
“Large Time”
This opening track is a tribute to Lynyrd Skynyrd, who had lost band members in a plane crash in October 1977. ARS toured with Skynyrd frequently.
“Not Gonna Let it Bother Me Tonight”
One of the hits from the album, this track hit #14 on the charts. “I just can't beat that old dog eat dog, the rats keep winnin' the rat race."
“Evileen”
This is a deeper cut, with some cool lyrics and key changes. “She's a witch, a bit of a bitch, she's a necessary evil but she's got what I need, Evileen.”
“Champagne Jam”
The title track is a fan favorite, and a mainstay of ARS's concert lineup. ARS hosted a rock festival called Champagne Jam in September 1978. “Don't want no whiskey, gimme some high class booze.”
ENTERTAINMENT TRACK:
Theme from “Close Encounters of the Third Kind”
This symphonic track was from Steven Spielberg's popular film about alien encounters and UFO's — a very common discussion in the culture of 1978.
STAFF PICKS:
“Isn’t it Time” by the Babies
Brian loves this great piano-driven track from the John Waite-fronted band. The lyrics deal with an encounter between a man and a woman - deciding whether or not to take the relationship further.
“Ebony Eyes” by Bob Welch
Rob shares that Welch had been with Fleetwood Mac before this solo effort. This is the second hit from the album “French Kiss.” Check out that fuzzy guitar riff.
“Young Fast Scientific” by the Dictators
Wayne takes the tempo UP on this proto-punk track. The Dictators were never that popular but were a big influence on the punk rock movement.
“Godzilla” by Blue Öyster Cult
Bruce closes out the staff picks with “Oh No! There goes Tokyo!” Although it was played pretty regularly on rock stations, it is surprising that this song never made it on the Billboard charts. This “Cult” classic was certified gold in January 1978.
LAUGH TRACK:
“Rocket Man” by William Shatner
We....could...not resist.....In January 1978, Shatner appeared on the televised Saturn Awards and presented this Elton John hit in lyric poem format. Folks, you just have to hear this one (and check out the video on Yout Tube) to believe it.
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.

January 1965 — “Beatles for Sale” by The Beatles
By the start of 1965 The Beatles were already a household name, with Beatlemania reaching its peak the year before. Their fourth album released in the UK, Beatles for Sale, would continue their prolific work with a turn to more introspective lyrics and a handful of cover songs. The Beatles entire catalog is incredible, and this album contains some of the best examples from their height.
Join us on this brief time machine ride back to the beginning of the rock era.
“I’ll Follow the Sun”
The Beatles were putting out an album every 6 months at this time. This song was a softer, more folk oriented track than many of their upbeat tunes.
“Baby’s in Black”
This track is perhaps a foreshadowing of Eleanor Rigby in its lyrics. Lennon and McCartney's harmonies are always a striking feature of the early to mid-Beatles music catalog, and this song showcases that well.
“Eight Days a Week”
A well-known track. The original title was “Eight Arms to Hold You,” but (thankfully) it was changed before the song came out.
“I’m a Looser”
A low key tune that is more negative, and perhaps emotionally self-reflective. The harmonica work is inspired by Bob Dylan.
ENTERTAINMENT TRACK:
“Johnny Quest” - theme
Great instrumental work from this 60's vintage cartoon.
STAFF PICKS:
“You Really Got Me” by the Kinks
Their third single would be their first number 1 hit. Rob shares this love song for street kids. They got their fuzzy guitar sound by slicing the amps with a knife.
“Do You Love Me (now that I can dance)” by the Dave Clark Five
Bruce riffs on the second British Invasion group that performed this cover of the Motown hit by the Contours.
“Downtown” by Petula Clark
Tony Hatch was inspired to write this song after visiting Times Square, and took the song to Petula Clark in Paris, as explained by Brian.
“She’s not There” by the Zombies
This debut single for The Zombies is about a girl who left her boyfriend for another guy. Wayne shares that Santana also covered this song successfully in the 70's.
LAUGH TRACK:
“Hawaii Tattoo” by The Waikikis
This instrumental track from the Aloha State takes us out on this EARLIEST of our "What the Riff" months.
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.

September 1991 — “Ten” by Pearl Jam
Bursting out of what was becoming the Seattle scene Pearl Jam achieved mainstream success with its debut album, anachronistically named Ten​. The popularity of the album was slow coming, but has shown a staying power over the decades. Often identified with the grunge movement, and considered highly influential, Pearl Jam nevertheless defies labels. Their strong melodies and melancholy, open lyrics evoke not only grunge, but metal, alternative rock, and straightforward hard rock.
Join us as we focus on what Wayne considers "the month that changed rock and roll."
“Once”
This is the first track, and leads with a strong guitar riff and Vedder's powerful voice.
“Why Go”
This is the second track. Though considered a part of "the grunge bandwagon," Pearl Jam's album was recorded before Nirvana's “Nevermind” hit the charts.
“Jeremy”
A compelling song written about a middle school boy who committed suicide in class. Eddie Vedder read about the story in the Dallas Morning News and was inspired to write Jeremy.
“Oceans”
This is a deeper cut, “The sea will rise, please stand by the shore, oh, oh, oh, I will be, I will be there once more.”
ENTERTAINMENT TRACK:
“Home Improvement” - theme
Tim Allen's very successful sitcom debuted this month.
STAFF PICKS:
“Wild Hearted Son” by the Cult
Brian says this track and album was inspired by the plight of the Native American. The picture used on the cover of The Cult's album resulted in a $61 million lawsuit.
“Heavy Fuel” by Dire Straits
Mark Knopfler leading his group in one of the last hits of his Dire Straits days before going solo. Rob gets a chuckle out of the song ironically extolling the virtues of “cigarettes, hamburgers, Scotch, lust, money, and violence.”
“Three Strange Days” by School of Fish
Bruce shares this one-hit wonder from a short-lived alt rock band — leads off with a buzzing guitar over a straightforward percussion beat.
“Winds of Change” by the Scorpions
Wayne closes out the Staff Picks with this pick — inspired by the opening of the Soviet Union, and the failed coup that would bring about that empire's demise.
LAUGH TRACK:
“Things that Make You Go, Hmmmm....” by C+C Music Factory
We take this hip hop song with its tongue-in-cheek approach to life events as our cue to wrap 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.
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.

February 1985 — “The Firm” by The Firm
If you're forming a rock group for success in the 1980s, you can't go wrong with Paul Rodgers (Bad Company) on lead and Jimmy Page (Led Zeppelin) on guitar. Throw in Tony Franklin on bass and Chris Slade on drums, and you have the supergroup known as The Firm. Their self-titled debut album was propelled to the top of the charts on the strength of their hit “Radioactive” and “Satisfaction Guaranteed.” Chris Slade suggested the name of the group, initially as a joke based partially on the fact that Rodgers’ previous group was “Bad Company,” and everyone gravitated to it immediately. The Firm only put out two albums before the members went their separate ways.
Join us as we explore this soulful supergroup.
“Radioactive”
This was the big commercial success on the album reaching number 28 in the U.S.
“Closer”
You can hear Jimmy Page's influence on this track. "The main aim is to play some rock and roll and have some fun." was a quote from Page about the formation of the group.
“Money Can't Buy ”
This track has a heavy Paul Rodgers influence. You really get a good sense of Rodgers’ vocal strength here. Tony Franklin was famous for playing the fretless bass.
“Satisfaction Guaranteed”
This song got some great airplay back in the day. It has a slow anthem quality to it, combining both elements of Led Zeppelin and Bad Company.
ENTERTAINMENT TRACK:
“Lunatic Fringe” - performed by Red Rider
This track is off the soundtrack from the movie “Vision Quest.” A soundtrack is LOADED with talent of the day.
STAFF PICKS:
“How Soon is Now” by The Smiths
The Smiths were a staple of alternative rock in the mid-'80s. Bruce shares their most popular song, but it didn't go very high in the charts because it had been released previously as a B-side. The reverb is distinctive and the lyrics are melancholy.
“Relax” by Frankie Goes to Hollywood
Wayne steps away from his typical HARD ROCK and presents this song that is easy to identify with 1985, although it was controversial due to its lyric content. It was banned in the UK at the time. Frankie say...Relax!
“California Girls” by David Lee Roth
One of Brian’s favorite videos — Roth shows off his entertainment chops on the video to this Beach Boys cover. This solo effort may have added fuel to the fire that eventually resulted in the departure of David Lee Roth from Van Halen.
“Call to the Heart” by Giuffria
Rob shares one of the precursors to the hair bands of the late '80s. Gregg Giuffria had a Steve Perry-esque sound. The album peaked at #26 on the album charts.
LAUGH TRACK:
“I Drink Alone” by George Thorogood and the Destroyers
We close out on this podcast with some amazing lyrics....“Every morning just before breakfast, I don't want no coffee or tea. Just me and by good buddy Wiser, that's all I ever need!”
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.

“So” by Peter Gabriel
Bruce is excited about this blockbuster hit album. After four solo albums without a name, the record company finally persuaded Peter Gabriel to name this fifth album. So is a synthesizer-heavy album influenced by world music. It shows Gabriel's experimental side, but it was a more approachable album than his other releases, and it was a huge hit in the mid-'80s both on radio and MTV. Gabriel went from a cult star to a mainstream star in the rock genre very quickly with this five-fold platinum album. There's really not a bad track on this album, and the majority of the songs received airplay.
Join us as we have a BIG TIME with this SLEDGEHAMMER of an album!
“In Your Eyes”
This song leads off side two. Gabriel wanted to make it the last song, but the bass line is so strong that it needed to be near the front of the album to give the record stylus room to vibrate. This track became popular after the release of the movie "Say Anything."
“Red Rain”
Red Rain This track leads off the album. Gabriel wanted it to "crash at the front." Stewart Copeland (Police) does the symbol work at the front of this dark, melancholy song.
“That Voice”
This one qualifies as a deeper cut. Nice bass work by Tony Levin on this heavily layered exploration of conscience - the voices in your head.
“Big Time”
Emblematic of the yuppie culture of the ‘80's, this song satirizes the "bigger is better - greed is good” culture of the time. Stewart Copeland (of the Police) is on drums, while Tony Levin is fingering the bass and Jerry Marotta is playing the strings on the bass with drumsticks to give it the "slap bass" sound.
ENTERTAINMENT TRACK:
“Danger Zone” - the theme from “Top Gun” by Kenny Loggins
This tune was a hit from the mega-hit movie “Top Gun” featuring Tom Cruise. It’s actually a good soundtrack!
STAFF PICKS:
“I Wanna be a Cowboy” by Boys Don’t Cry
Brian! Oh, Brian — I mean, Ted! Oh, Ted! Fighting off danger! This one hit deadpan comedy wonder could be heard in all the clubs in 1986.
“All the Things She Said” by Simple Minds
Rob shares the third single from Simple Minds’ seventh studio album, and it’s a great track. The B-side to the single is a live version of “Don't You Forget About Me,” their most famous song (but one that the lead singer hated).
“Touch & Go” by Emerson, Lake, & Powell
Wayne goes for ELP...but not Palmer in this case! Cozy Powell takes over percussion duties from Carl Palmer, who was unavailable to reform Emerson, Lake, & Palmer due to his work with the supergroup, Asia. The synthesizer melody is based on an English folk tune called “Lovely Joan.”
“No One is to Blame” by Howard Jones
Bruce closes out staff picks with this one. Jones originally put out this song on his “Dream Into Action” album. It became a hit after Phil Collins produced the re-recording, and added the drum work and backing vocals. This track appeared on Jones' third album entitled "One to One."
LAUGH TRACK:
“The Chicken Song” by Spitting Image
This number one song in Britain was from a comedy TV show which used puppets designed to look like famous politicians and celebrities. This is where Genesis got their video for “Land of Confusion.” Check out the video.
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.