A History of Rock Music in 500 Songs

Song 177: “Never Learn Not to Love” by the Beach Boys, Part 4: “Sometimes I Have A Great Notion”

Mar 22, 2025
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ANECDOTE

Brian Wilson's "Shortening Bread" Obsession

  • Brian Wilson's obsession with "Shortening Bread" lasted for 35 years.
  • He'd play it constantly, even driving other musicians crazy.
INSIGHT

"Shortening Bread's" Origins

  • "Shortening Bread" evolved from various sources, including minstrel songs and a Scottish folk tune.
  • Early versions used racial slurs, reflecting the song's complex history.
ANECDOTE

First Recording and Exploitation

  • The earliest known recording of "Shortening Bread" is from 1924 by Henry Witter.
  • Ralph Peer, known for exploiting poor musicians, produced it.
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