
A History of Rock Music in 500 Songs
Andrew Hickey presents a history of rock music from 1938 to 1999, looking at five hundred songs that shaped the genre.
Latest episodes

May 24, 2024 • 0sec
Song 174B: “I Heard it Through the Grapevine” Part Two, “It Takes Two”
Marvin Gaye and his duet partners Mary Wells, Kim Weston, and Tammi Terrell are discussed, diving into their struggles and successes in the music industry, toxic relationships, tragic health issues, and the unexpected success of Marvin Gaye's solo singles like 'I Heard It Through the Grapevine'. The podcast also explores the emotional aftermath of Tammi Terrell's tragic passing and Marvin Gaye's resilience in overcoming adversity.

May 7, 2024 • 0sec
Song 174A: “I Heard it Through the Grapevine” Part One, “If At First You Don’t Succeed…”
Norman Whitfield and Barrett Strong, songwriters of 'I Heard it Through the Grapevine', are discussed. The podcast explores their early careers, challenges in the music industry, and the evolution of the hit song. It also touches on the competitive dynamic between Gladys Knight and Aretha Franklin, and the struggles and success of Gladys Knight and the Pips.

May 3, 2024 • 0sec
An Alert: Someone Plagiarising Me
A French language podcast has been plagiarizing episodes from the host's show, translating them word-for-word and monetizing on Patreon. The host has given the plagiarist a deadline to remove the content and issue an apology before legal action is taken.

Apr 14, 2024 • 0sec
Song 173: “All Along the Watchtower” Part Two, The Hour is Getting Late
Explore the controversial aspects of Jimi Hendrix's music, from racism to guitar burning stunts. Learn about his rise to fame with the Jimi Hendrix Experience and the challenges faced along the way. Delve into his musical journey, personal turmoils, and final turbulent chapter before his untimely death.

8 snips
Mar 25, 2024 • 0sec
Song 173: “All Along the Watchtower”, Part One: “He’s Not the Messiah”
Exploring the origins and impact of 'All Along the Watchtower' by Bob Dylan, contrasting his artistry with John Lennon, and his transition towards country music. Delving into collaborations with Johnny Cash, recording sessions, and unique vocal choices in 'Nashville Skyline'. Discussing the unconventional album 'Self-Portrait' and the underwhelming 1969 Isle of White Festival performance.

Mar 1, 2024 • 0sec
Song 172, Hickory Wind by the Byrds: Part 4, Hour of Darkness
Explore the aftermath of Chris Hillman and Gram Parsons leaving The Byrds, forming the Flying Burrito Brothers. Dive into the tragic deaths affecting the band, their anti-drug stance, and Crosby's musical tribute. Uncover the personal lives, recording challenges, and evolving dynamics of the band members. Learn about the collaborative creation between Parsons and Emmy Lou Harris, his struggles with addiction, and lasting impact on the music industry.

Feb 16, 2024 • 0sec
Song 172, Hickory Wind by the Byrds: Part 3, The Parsons Tale
This podcast explores the influence of Grand Parsons on the Byrds and 'Hickory Wind', the connections between country music and soul, the origins of the song and its significance, the impact of the album 'Sweetheart of the Rodeo' and the departure of Graham Parsons from the band. It also discusses the formation of a new band called the West Coast version of the Flying Burrito Brothers.

Feb 1, 2024 • 0sec
Song 172, “Hickory Wind” by the Byrds: Part Two, Of Submarines and Second Generations
This episode discusses the consequences faced by the Birds after David Crosby's departure, Gene Clark's solo album and troubles with The Byrds, the post-Rising Sons careers of band members, the formation of Fusion and the Notorious Bird Brothers, the formation of the International Summer Rain Band and their early singles, and Lee Hazlewood's career and collaboration with Nancy Sinatra.

Jan 17, 2024 • 0sec
Song 172, “Hickory Wind” by the Byrds: Part One, Ushering in a New Dimension
Explore the departure of the lead singer and the band's reorganization. Learn about the inspiration behind '5D' and the misunderstood lyrical intention. Discover the background and career of a songwriter with collaborations with Brian Wilson and Jan Berry. Dive into Gary Usher's career transition and astrology influence. Uncover the tension within the band, focusing on David Crosby's dissatisfaction. Follow the dismissal of Crosby and discuss the band's future.

Jan 17, 2024 • 0sec
Announcement Regarding Schedule
The podcast announces a new format and release schedule to address inconsistencies and episode length issues. The content and stories will remain unchanged.