A History of Rock Music in 500 Songs

Episode 118 of A History of Rock Music in Five Hundred Songs looks at “Do-Wah-Diddy-Diddy” by Manfred Mann, and how a jazz group with a blues singer had one of the biggest bubblegum pop hits of the sixties. Click the full post to read liner notes, links to more information, and a transcript of the episode. Patreon backers also have a thirteen-minute bonus episode available, on “Walk on By” by Dionne Warwick. Tilt Araiza has assisted invaluably by doing a first-pass edit, and will hopefully be doing so from now on. Check out Tilt’s irregular podcasts at http://www.podnose.com/jaffa-cakes-for-proust and http://sitcomclub.com/ (more…)

The podcast discusses the Beach Boys' evolution in 1963-64, competing with the Beatles. It explores the creation of "Surf in USA" from Berry's melody and the band's success. The departure of David Marks and Brian Wilson's songwriting skills are also discussed. Additionally, the podcast covers the replacement of Brian Wilson, his decision to retire from touring, and exclusive content for Patreon backers.

Episode one hundred and sixteen of A History of Rock Music in Five Hundred Songs looks at “Where Did Our Love Go?” by the Supremes, and how the “no-hit Supremes” became the biggest girl group in history. Click the full post to read liner notes, links to more information, and a transcript of the episode. Patreon backers also have a ten-minute bonus episode available, on “She’s Not There” by the Zombies. Tilt Araiza has assisted invaluably by doing a first-pass edit, and will hopefully be doing so from now on. Check out Tilt’s irregular podcasts at http://www.podnose.com/jaffa-cakes-for-proust and http://sitcomclub.com/ (more…)

Explore the origins and popularity of 'House of the Rising Sun' by the Animals and its impact on British and American music. Learn about the isolated music scene in Newcastle during the 1960s and the contrasting musical tastes of Alan Price and Chas Chandler. Discover how Graham Bond formed his own group and the interpretations of 'House of the Rising Sun'. Dive into the aftermath of Wilson's song experiment and the lasting impact it had on Dylan and the Animals. Listen for announcements about bonuses for Patreon backers and availability of a book based on the podcast.

This week’s episode looks at “My Boy Lollipop” and the origins of ska music. Click the full post to read liner notes, links to more information, and a transcript of the episode. Patreon backers also have a ten-minute bonus episode available, on “If You Wanna Be Happy” by Jimmy Soul. Tilt Araiza has assisted invaluably by doing a first-pass edit, and will hopefully be doing so from now on. Check out Tilt’s irregular podcasts at http://www.podnose.com/jaffa-cakes-for-proust and http://sitcomclub.com/ (more…)

This week’s episode looks at “Needles and Pins”, and the story of the second-greatest band to come out of Liverpool in the sixties, The Searchers. Click the full post to read liner notes, links to more information, and a transcript of the episode. Patreon backers also have a sixteen-minute bonus episode available, on “Farmer John” by Don and Dewey. Tilt Araiza has assisted invaluably by doing a first-pass edit, and will hopefully be doing so from now on. Check out Tilt’s irregular podcasts at http://www.podnose.com/jaffa-cakes-for-proust and http://sitcomclub.com/ (more…)

This week’s episode looks at “She Loves You”, the Beatles in 1963, and the start of Beatlemania in the UK. Click the full post to read liner notes, links to more information, and a transcript of the episode. Patreon backers also have a ten-minute bonus episode available, on “Glad All Over” by the Dave Clark Five. Tilt Araiza has assisted invaluably by doing a first-pass edit, and will hopefully be doing so from now on. Check out Tilt’s irregular podcasts at http://www.podnose.com/jaffa-cakes-for-proust and http://sitcomclub.com/ (more…)

Explore the beginnings of the iconic Motown girl group and the pivotal role of Holland-Dozier-Holland in shaping their sound. Discover Martha Reeves' rise and the innovative production techniques that defined their music. Dive into the cultural impact of classic hits like 'Dancing in the Street' amid the civil rights movement. Celebrate the enduring legacy of Martha and the Vandellas, their influential contributions to Motown, and their lasting presence in music history.

Explore the powerful impact of 'Be My Baby' and its iconic production by Phil Spector. Discover the Ronettes' rise from humble beginnings to stardom, alongside the struggles they faced in a male-dominated industry. Intriguingly, the podcast reveals controversies surrounding a pioneering female bass player and her influential role. It also highlights the personal narratives of artists, emphasizing community support in music history. Dive into the complexities of fame and the ongoing journey of creative expression.

I just heard the sad news that Gerry Marsden, of Gerry and the Pacemakers, has died today aged seventy-eight. As the latest episode of the podcast is late due to personal issues, I thought I’d make this available to the general public – this is a ten-minute Patreon bonus episode I did back in October, on Gerry and the Pacemakers, so it’s here as a little tribute. He’ll be missed. (more…)