60 Songs That Explain the '90s

Yasi Salek, host of Vansplain and an insightful presence on The Ringer, joins to discuss the emotional power of music in storytelling, focusing on The Fray's iconic "How to Save a Life". They dive into the art of emotional manipulation in TV dramas, especially in shows like Grey's Anatomy. Salek shares her personal experiences, highlighting how this song resonated with her during key moments in the series. The conversation also touches on the broader cultural impact of 90s music and its ability to evoke nostalgia and deep emotions.

Joel Anderson, a senior staff writer at The Ringer and co-host of The Press Box podcast, joins Rob to dissect the Nas vs. Jay-Z feud. They delve into the impact of Nas's legendary diss track 'Ether' and its role in reshaping hip-hop narratives. The conversation highlights the cultural significance of rap beef and how rivalries influence artists' careers, spotlighting the complexity of authenticity in hip-hop. Personal anecdotes reveal the emotional weight behind these conflicts and the evolving dynamics of artist relationships.

Sean Fennessey, Head of Content for The Ringer and co-host of The Big Picture, joins to celebrate the impact of Queens of the Stone Age on rock music. They explore the playful intersection of heavy metal and comedy, drawing parallels between face-melting riffs and standout jokes. Fennessey discusses the band's genre-blending sound and Josh Homme's unique persona, reflecting on their evolution from grunge to defining 'robot rock.' Personal anecdotes bring nostalgia, revealing how their music resonates with youthful rebellion and shared moments.

Julianne Escobedo Shepherd, a prominent writer and editor, joins to discuss Jennifer Lopez's rise to fame and her iconic song, "Jenny From the Block." The conversation sheds light on the complexities of celebrity relationships, particularly between J.Lo and Ben Affleck. They explore the balance of authenticity and public persona in Lopez's career while reminiscing about the media's role in shaping celebrity culture during the 2000s. Shepherd also shares insights on J.Lo's influence in music and fashion, revealing how personal and professional narratives intertwine.

Kelefa Sanneh, a staff writer for The New Yorker and former pop critic, joins the discussion on Toby Keith's 'Courtesy of the Red, White and Blue.' They delve into the song's poignant themes and its cultural reception post-9/11, exploring how it reflects a unique political moment. The conversation also touches on the evolution of country music, Keith's influence, and the backlash faced by artists like the Dixie Chicks. They analyze how humor and emotion were interwoven in the arts during a time of national grief.

Niko Stratis, critic and author of 'The Dad Rock That Made Me a Woman', joins to discuss the indie-rock classic 'Maps' by the Yeah Yeah Yeahs. They dive into Karen O's authentic influence in the early 2000s indie scene, exploring the song's themes of love and vulnerability. The conversation touches on the band's rise, the pressures of fame, and the emotional resonance of music against the vibrant backdrop of New York City's rock history. Stratis also reflects on the complexities of the 'dad rock' label and the enduring significance of this iconic track.

Rob is back from hiatus with a loaded episode! Join him as he straddles the line between real life and virtual reality when discussing the virtual band Gorillaz and the career of its creator, Damon Albarn. Later, Rob is joined by Jeremy Gordon, the author of 'See Friendship' and senior editor at The Atlantic, to get to the bottom of how Gorillaz became so popular (1:07:00). Host: Rob Harvilla Guest: Jeremy Gordon Producers: Bobby Wagner, Jonathan Kermah, and Justin Sayles Additional Production Support: Olivia Crerie Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The hosts bring exciting news about their return after a hiatus, playful banter fills the air as they reassure fans about their well-being. They humorously squash rumors of cancellation, building anticipation for the upcoming season. Listeners are left eager for fresh insights into iconic '90s songs.

Kendrick Lamar, Pulitzer Prize-winning rapper and cultural icon, dives into his journey from the rap blog era to superstardom. He discusses the pivotal influence of Top Dog Entertainment and his groundbreaking album 'Good Kid, M.A.A.D City.' Kendrick contrasts his lyrical depth and social themes with Drake's commercial appeal, shedding light on their intense rivalry. The conversation also explores Kendrick's bold challenges in hip-hop and the cultural significance of their ongoing competition, underscoring how authenticity shapes their artistry.

Joined by Chris Ryan, a film expert, and Sean Fennessey, who knows both film and music, the discussion dives into the rich world of movie soundtracks. They kick off with a humorous toast while selecting their top picks in a live soundtrack draft, emphasizing nostalgic favorites from the 90s. The guests reflect on the cultural significance of iconic soundtracks, like those from 'Romeo and Juliet' and 'Trainspotting,' while sharing personal memories linked to these tracks. Additionally, they promote support for musicians affected by wildfires, blending humor, nostalgia, and community spirit.