One Song

How does a song with no bass and no chorus become a global anthem with the most recognizable riff of the 21st century? Diallo Riddle and LUXXURY break down The White Stripes’ “Seven Nation Army,” exploring the cultural moment, the iconic bass-that-isn’t-a-bass riff, and the analog choices that turned a stripped-down idea into a modern classic. SONGS DISCUSSED “Seven Nation Army” - The White Stripes “You’re Pretty Good Looking (For a Girl)” - The White Stripes “St. James Infirmary Blues” - The White Stripes “St. James Infirmary” - Cab Calloway “St. James Infirmary” - King Oliver “Grinnin’ In Your Face” - Son House “Fell In Love With A Girl” - The White Stripes “Feral” - The Gories “Symphony No. 5” - Anton Bruckner “All By Myself” - Eric Carmen “Otoma Da Naba” - Florence Adooni “Dead End Love” - Phaidia One Song Spotify Playlist Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What song connects 1960s soul, Irish new age, and ’90s hip-hop? Diallo Riddle and LUXXURY go deep on Fugees’ classic “Ready or Not” with special guest Wyclef Jean. Together, they deconstruct the track’s haunting beat, uncover its surprisingly sourced bassline, and unpack the layered samples and interpolations that helped turn the song into a defining moment in hip-hop history. Songs Discussed: “Ready Or Not” - Fugees “Maria Maria” - Santana feat. The Product G&B “No, No, No Part 2” - Destiny’s Child feat. Wyclef Jean “Hips Don’t Lie” - Shakira feat. Wyclef Jean “What Would You Do?” - City High “Fu-Gee-La” - Fugees “Shook Ones, Pt. II” - Mobb Deep “Temperature’s Rising” - Mobb Deep feat. Crystal Johnson “Vocab (Refugees Hip Hop Remix)” - Fugees “Orinoco Flow” - Enya “Boadicea” - Enya “Ready or Not Here I come (Can’t Hide from Love)” - The Delfonics “If I Ruled The World (Imagine That)” - Nas feat. Lauryn Hill “If I Ruled The World” - Kurtis Blow “Ninety Nine (Flash the Message)” - John Forté “99 Red Balloons” - NENA “Anything Can Happen” - Wyclef Jean “Bubblegoose” - Wyclef Jean “Gone Till November” - Wyclef Jean “Dance Like This” - Wyclef Jean feat. Claudette Ortiz “Amores Como el Nuestro” - Jerry Rivera One Song Spotify Playlist Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Explore the iconic hit 'Upside Down' and how Nile Rodgers and Bernard Edwards transformed disco with their unique sound. Dive into Diana Ross's career reinvention and the creative spark behind the song's title. Discover the influence of Chic and their rhythmic signature, while dissecting Tony Thompson's drum patterns and Bernard Edwards' bass techniques. The hosts also explore the song's legacy, its reception through pop culture, and the nuances of its production. Join them as they celebrate a classic and its impact on music history.

Dive into the magic of Michael Jackson's iconic "Billie Jean" as the hosts explore its groundbreaking bassline and the innovative engineering behind its sound. Discover how the music video revolutionized MTV and shaped MJ's image. They also dissect the song's dark narrative, songwriting credits, and the unforgettable performance that introduced the moonwalk. With insights on the recording process and rare post-fade vocals, this conversation highlights why "Billie Jean" remains a timeless anthem.

Dive into the electrifying essence of a West Coast classic! Explore how Tupac's overwhelming charisma and complex persona shaped 'California Love.' The hosts reveal fascinating anecdotes about Tupac's early life and career, along with insights into Dre's groundbreaking production techniques. Discover the origins of the iconic piano hook and its connections to earlier tracks. They also delve into the song's lasting impact on hip-hop culture and Tupac's legacy, cementing this anthem as a timeless California masterpiece.

Leslie Guam, a devoted Mariah Carey superfan and Executive Producer, shares her heartfelt connection to "All I Want for Christmas Is You." She reflects on Mariah's influence through her iconic albums and the significance of Christmas traditions in her life. The discussion dives deep into the creation of the classic, analyzing its nostalgic instrumentation and Mariah's enchanting vocal performance. Leslie also reveals the personal memories that inspired the song, celebrating its cultural impact and timeless holiday appeal.

In this engaging discussion, Shawn Stockman, iconic high tenor and four-time Grammy winner from Boyz II Men, shares his insights on the creation of 'Motownphilly'. He delves into the unique vocal arrangements, the group's dynamic writing process, and Michael McCary's contributions. Shawn reflects on the track's enduring influence in R&B and the balance of tension in their harmonies. He also teases exciting future projects like a Boyz II Men biopic and his new podcast. The nostalgia for the 90s sound and the artistry behind their hits is palpable!

Shawn Stockman, a four-time Grammy-winning singer and a founding member of Boyz II Men, dives into the rich legacy of 90s R&B. He shares how the group formed in a Philadelphia arts school, revealing early influences like Take Six and Chuck D. The discussion highlights the concept behind 'Motownphilly,' crediting Michael Bivins, and explores the New Jack Swing sound that redefined their music. With humorous insights about their early performances, wardrobe choices, and the impactful music video, Shawn paints a vivid picture of a transformative era in R&B.

Award-winning journalist and podcaster Sam Sanders shares his insights on Fleetwood Mac's 'Dreams'. He delves into the tumultuous Rumours-era, highlighting personal dramas that fueled the band's creativity. The conversation covers the song's spontaneous creation in Sly Stone's room and its viral resurgence on TikTok. Sanders analyzes the hypnotic drum loop and the unique contributions of each band member, revealing how their chaos transformed into legendary music. His reflections on heartbreak and legacy offer a profound look at the power of collaboration amid turmoil.

Discover how Deee-Lite crafted the irresistible anthem ‘Groove Is in the Heart’ from a vibrant mix of samples. The hosts explore its cultural impact in the 90s and reflect on the iconic music video. Delve into the song's postmodern elements, featuring a blend of disco, funk, and quirky samples. From Lady Miss Kier’s sampler discovery to the creative contributions of Bootsy Collins and Q-Tip, every layer of this funky masterpiece is revealed. Enjoy memorable anecdotes and recommendations for lesser-known tracks!