

Ethan Teaches You Music Podcast
Ethan Hein
Ethan teaches you music ethanhein.substack.com
Episodes
Mentioned books

May 29, 2025 • 36min
Eye Know
Dive into the fascinating world of sampling with an analysis of De La Soul's 'I Know.' Discover how innovative techniques bring classic tracks to life, challenging the notion that hip-hop is simplistic. Explore the intricate processes behind beat reconstruction and the differences between modern and vintage sampling technology. Learn about digital audio representation and its impact on sound quality. Finally, reflect on the profound influence of classic artists in shaping the complexity of hip-hop beats.

May 27, 2025 • 34min
When The Levee Breaks
Dive into the captivating history of 'When the Levee Breaks,' tracing its origins from the blues of the 1920s to its transformation into a rock anthem. Discover the innovative drumming techniques that give it a unique sound, thanks in part to John Bonham’s masterful style. The discussion also covers iconic tracks from the late '80s and early '90s, showcasing clever sampling methods. Explore the complexities of music theory and cultural appropriation, analyzing Björk's innovative use of the Locrian mode alongside Led Zeppelin's blues influences.

5 snips
May 24, 2025 • 22min
Chords Around the Circle of Fifths - Part Two
Dive into the intriguing world of chord progressions as the host explores innovative movements through the circle of fifths. Discover how rock and pop classics, like The Beatles and Jimi Hendrix, challenge traditional music theory. Learn about atypical clockwise transitions that breathe new life into familiar songs. Plus, get insights on plagal cadences and notable covers, including the Talking Heads' take on 'Take Me To The River'. This lively discussion invites music enthusiasts to rethink their understanding of chord use in popular music.

9 snips
May 23, 2025 • 22min
Chords Around the Circle of Fifths - Part One
Dive into the fascinating world of chord progressions with a focus on the circle of fifths. Discover how this concept shapes both popular and classical music. Tune into musical demonstrations featuring iconic tracks and timeless classics, showcasing the magic of major and minor sequences. Plus, enjoy some eye-opening insights into the often-misunderstood nature of the circle itself. It's a fun exploration of creativity and structure in music!

12 snips
May 19, 2025 • 32min
Why are F-sharp and G-flat two different notes?
Discover the intriguing identity of F-sharp and G-flat, notes that sound the same but hold different names in music theory. The podcast dives into historical contexts and tuning methods that shape musical performance. An excerpt from Miles Okazaki's video offers insights into guitar tuning using harmonics. Additionally, enjoy synthesized segments of Bach's masterpieces and a variety of other captivating musical pieces. Explore how the harmonic series connects with just intonation and blues harmony for a complete auditory experience.

9 snips
May 14, 2025 • 29min
What does The Well-Tempered Clavier sound like in actual well temperament?
Delve into the fascinating worlds of historical tuning systems as they relate to Bach's music. Experience Glenn Gould's groundbreaking interpretation of the Prelude No. 1 in C Major and how it transforms in various well temperaments. Explore the contrast between just intonation and the standard 12-tone equal temperament, revealing how these differences enrich musical expression. Listen to performances that showcase the emotional depth of these tuning systems, igniting a passion for music that transcends traditional boundaries.

10 snips
May 10, 2025 • 24min
Watermelon Man
Explore the rich journey behind the creation of 'Watermelon Man,' a jazz standard that has shaped the landscape of funk and hip-hop. Delve into its rhythmic structure and cultural significance. The discussion also tackles the ethics of music sampling, revealing how traditional influences intersect with modern interpretations. As the internet reshapes musical connections, the episode raises important questions about representation in music and the implications of sharing cultural expressions.

11 snips
May 8, 2025 • 26min
The name of this tune is The Funky Drummer
Dive into the fascinating world of the Funky Drummer break! Discover its origins and immense cultural influence in hip-hop and pop music. Unpack the underrated contributions of drummer Clyde Stubblefield and the revival of this iconic beat in the 1980s. Explore the legacy of classic tracks and delve into the complex copyright issues surrounding sampled drum breaks. Get ready to groove to the rhythms that shaped the music industry and made history!

6 snips
May 1, 2025 • 15min
The saddest chord progression ever
Dive into the heart-wrenching world of music as the podcast unpacks a poignant chord progression from Kalinikov's Symphony No. 1. Discover how this melancholic harmony resonates through timeless hits by The Beatles and Willie Nelson. The discussion reveals the emotional weight of these chords and their power to convey sadness in music. Get ready for a soulful exploration of how harmony connects us to our feelings across generations!

14 snips
Apr 26, 2025 • 24min
It don't mean a thing if it ain't got that swing
Discover the emotional essence of swing in American music and its intriguing complexities. Explore how rhythms vary across genres, from classical to jazz, and delve into the unique styles of artists like John Coltrane and J Dilla. Learn about the importance of microtiming and how it affects groove, along with tips for musicians to master swing nuances. Catch a glimpse of various famous tracks and how their rhythmic structures contribute to their timeless appeal. Get ready to rethink your understanding of music's heartbeat!