

60 Songs That Explain the '90s
The Ringer
First came '60 Songs That Explain the '90s.' (We did that.) Then came '60 Songs That Explain the '90s: The 2000s.' (We're doing that now—and yes, that's the actual name.) But whether you want to jump back to the Clinton years or join us as we reboot our old iPods, you can find all of the collected works of Rob Harvilla below. Come back each Wednesday for a new episode.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Sep 25, 2024 • 1min
Introducing 60 Songs That Explain the '90s: The 2000s
We are so back! Join us on another musical journey through a new decade as Rob Harvilla digs through the biggest songs of the 2000s like only he can. The Strokes, Rihanna, Jennifer Lopez, Arcade Fire, Missy Elliott, Kanye West, and many more are on table. New episodes every Wednesday! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

11 snips
Mar 13, 2024 • 1h 31min
“Closing Time”—Semisonic
Exploring emotions tied to farewells and nostalgia in the '90s music scene, with a focus on Semisonic's 'Closing Time'. The episode reflects on personal memories, the evolution of music, and farewells to the podcast's journey.

4 snips
Mar 6, 2024 • 1h 40min
“Friends in Low Places”—Garth Brooks
The podcast explores nostalgic memories tied to the first song heard as a baby, delves into Garth Brooks' impact on 90s country music, discusses concert experiences, analyzes the 'Friends in Low Places' song, and highlights Garth Brooks' persona as a local hero and musical icon.

12 snips
Feb 28, 2024 • 1h 32min
“Give Me One Reason”—Tracy Chapman
Delve into Tracy Chapman's musical impact, from her iconic song 'Give Me One Reason' to her deep connection with Ohio. Learn why Ohio breeds great writers like Chapman and how she defied mainstream culture. Explore her powerful messages, Grammy appearances, and potential comeback. Discover the influence of Ohio on creativity and the enduring legacy of Chapman's emotional storytelling in the '80s and '90s.

Feb 21, 2024 • 1h 47min
The Songs We Didn’t Do (Everyone Yells At Rob)
Exploring Sonic Youth's influence on 90s music, Tragically Hip's impact on Canadian music, and the evolution of alternative music in the late 90s. Discussions on Jodeci's timeless appeal in R&B, apologies, humor, and fond farewells. Reflecting on compilation albums in 90s culture and the regrets and reflections of the hosts.

23 snips
Feb 14, 2024 • 1h 34min
“Hard Knock Life”—JAY-Z
Rob looks at JAY-Z’s career backwards this week before reaching the rap legend’s 90’s pop crossover hit, “Hard Knock Life.” Along the way, Rob highlights the masterclass that is Funkmaster Flex premiering Kanye West and JAY-Z’a “Otis” on Hot 97 and much more. Later, the Ringer’s Wosny Lambre joins the show to discuss what JAY-Z’s rise to power in New York in the 90s, the importance of Hot 97 to New York rap, and JAY-Z the hyper-capitalist.Host: Rob HarvillaGuest: Wosny LambreProducers: Jonathan Kermah and Justin SaylesAdditional Production Support: Chloe Clark Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Feb 7, 2024 • 1h 51min
“Black or White”—Michael Jackson
Wesley Morris joins the show to decipher how to process Michael Jackson's career draped in success and controversy. They discuss the height of Jackson’s powers in the '80s, a tumultuous era in the '90s, and the societal impact of his music. The podcast covers controversies surrounding his legacy, unity experienced during his memorial service, his reputation as a revenge artist and thief, and the enduring popularity of his music. They also analyze the melodic aspects of 'In the Closet'.

7 snips
Jan 31, 2024 • 1h 30min
“Iris”—Goo Goo Dolls
The podcast explores the movie 'High Fidelity' and its relatability, focusing on power-pop songs by Matthew Sweet, the Knack, and Material Issue. The hosts discuss the emotional impact of 'Iris' by the Goo Goo Dolls and share personal experiences of creating mixtapes for crushes. They also delve into the concept of dad rock, compare soundtracks of 'City of Angels' and 'The Crow: City of Angels,' and express their love for 90s music.

Jan 24, 2024 • 1h 32min
“Freedom! ’90”—George Michael
Rob reflects on childhood songs, discusses a letter from Frank Sinatra to George Michael. They explore George Michael's impact on MTV, his song 'Freedom', his turning point and solo success, and his evolution as a musician

Jan 17, 2024 • 1h 34min
"Believe"—Cher
Cher, influential figure in the world of autotune, discusses her impact and the significance of her song 'Believe'. Rob recalls meeting Cher through 'Beavis and Butt-Head'. DJ Louie XIV joins to talk about the impact of 'Believe'.