On this week’s episode of Friends Talking Nerdy, Professor Aubrey and Tim the Nerd turn their ears toward one of the most expressive instruments in music history: the saxophone. From Bob Seger’s hauntingly beautiful “Turn The Page” to the iconic smoothness of Wham’s “Careless Whisper,” the duo digs into the way the saxophone can transform a song into something timeless. They groove through the Rolling Stones’ laid-back “Waiting On A Friend,” dance with Bowie’s “Modern Love,” feel the epic storytelling in Springsteen’s “Jungleland,” and toast with the classic party anthem “Tequila” by The Champs. The journey continues with Aretha Franklin’s powerhouse hit “Respect,” the soulful yearning of INXS’ “Never Tear Us Apart,” the rock ‘n’ roll roots of Bill Haley’s “Shake, Rattle, and Roll,” and another Bowie gem, “Young Americans.”
Check out the playlist on YouTube Music.
In the second half of the show, Tim the Nerd reflects on the passing of professional wrestling icon Hulk Hogan. While acknowledging Hogan as the spark that first drew him into the world of wrestling, Tim candidly explores the complicated legacy Hogan leaves behind—both as a larger-than-life performer and as a deeply flawed man. He emphasizes the importance of being honest about public figures’ lives, for better and worse, while also calling out the extremes of online criticism that turned into harassment of Hogan’s loved ones.
It’s a thoughtful, music-filled episode blending appreciation for the power of the saxophone with a nuanced conversation about legacy, fandom, and the messy ways we talk about the people who shaped pop culture.
As always, we wish to thank Christopher Lazarek for his wonderful theme song. Head to his website for information on how to purchase his EP, Here's To You, which is available on all digital platforms.
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