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Billy Fricks

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What the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1995 - October: Smashing Pumpkins "Mellon Collie and the Infinite Sadness"The Smashing Pumpkins were one of the most successful bands of the 1990s, both commercially and critically.  Their 30 million album sales worldwide makes a strong case for their importance to the alternative rock movement.  The band was formed in Chicago by guitarist James Iha, bassist D'arcy Wretzky, percussionist Jimmy Chamberlin, and frontman/guitarist Billy Corgan.  Corgan writes much of their material and has been the sole member to be continuously present in the group since their formation.In 1995, Billy Corgan wrote about 56 songs and wanted to creat a double album.  His vision was for Mellon Collie and the...
2025-08-0432 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1970 - June: The Beatles "Let It Be"By the time The Beatles released their twelfth and final studio album, Let It Be, the ban had already broken up.  Their official break-up was in April 1970, and this album was released in May.Much of the recording dates back over a year, and a project that Paul McCartney developed in an attempt to save the band.  The Beatles went into the studio in January 1969 to begin an album, document the development on film, and showcase the band as they return both to a simpler rock 'n' roll style and to live performance.  They started in Twickenham Fil...
2025-06-3040 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1972 - January: America ”America”Surprisingly, America was formed in London.  The trio of Gerry Beckley, Dewey Bunnell, and Dan Peek met in London where their fathers were stationed at the United States Air Force base at RAF South Ruislip.  The three attended London Central High School and began playing together on borrowed acoustic guitars.  The name came from the Americana jukebox in the mess hall, and a desire to distinguish themselves from the British musicians around them who were trying to sound more American. America is also their self-titled debut album released in the States in January 1972.  The album originally was rele...
2025-06-2332 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1972 - January: America ”America”Surprisingly, America was formed in London.  The trio of Gerry Beckley, Dewey Bunnell, and Dan Peek met in London where their fathers were stationed at the United States Air Force base at RAF South Ruislip.  The three attended London Central High School and began playing together on borrowed acoustic guitars.  The name came from the Americana jukebox in the mess hall, and a desire to distinguish themselves from the British musicians around them who were trying to sound more American. America is also their self-titled debut album released in the States in January 1972.  The album originally was rele...
2025-06-2332 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1972 - October: Delaney & Bonnie ”D&B Together”One of the more underrated - some might say virtually lost - bands of the early rock era is Delaney & Bonnie.  This singer-songwriter duo is made of session guitarist/vocalist Delaney Bramlett and his wife and former Ikette Bonnie Bramlett.  Just as important as this founding couple is the number of talented musicians they brought into their recordings, with albums often being referenced as recorded by "Delaney & Bonnie and friends."  These "friends" included luminaries such as Leon Russell, Eric Clapton, George Harrison, Duane Allman, Greg Allman, Steve Howe, and Rita Coolidge.   D&B Together is the sixth and...
2025-06-0238 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1972 - October: Delaney & Bonnie ”D&B Together”One of the more underrated - some might say virtually lost - bands of the early rock era is Delaney & Bonnie.  This singer-songwriter duo is made of session guitarist/vocalist Delaney Bramlett and his wife and former Ikette Bonnie Bramlett.  Just as important as this founding couple is the number of talented musicians they brought into their recordings, with albums often being referenced as recorded by "Delaney & Bonnie and friends."  These "friends" included luminaries such as Leon Russell, Eric Clapton, George Harrison, Duane Allman, Greg Allman, Steve Howe, and Rita Coolidge.   D&B Together is the sixth and...
2025-06-0238 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1971 - April: Rolling Stones “Sticky Fingers”Sticky Fingers is considered by many to be the greatest studio album the Rolling Stones ever created.  This ninth studio album represented a return to a more basic sound for the Stones after several albums with less conventional instrumentation.  It was also known for its cover artwork from Andy Warhol which featured a man in jeans with a working zipper.  The album won a Grammy for “Best Album Cover” for this innovative design. This was the first album that was released on their own label, Rolling Stones Records.  It was also the first album the group produced without...
2025-02-1842 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1971 - April: Rolling Stones “Sticky Fingers”Sticky Fingers is considered by many to be the greatest studio album the Rolling Stones ever created.  This ninth studio album represented a return to a more basic sound for the Stones after several albums with less conventional instrumentation.  It was also known for its cover artwork from Andy Warhol which featured a man in jeans with a working zipper.  The album won a Grammy for “Best Album Cover” for this innovative design. This was the first album that was released on their own label, Rolling Stones Records.  It was also the first album the group produced without...
2025-02-1842 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1973 - May: the Beatles ”1962-1966” and ”1967-1970”Echoes of the trajectory of the Beatles still reverberate through music today, and they loomed quite large over the rock scene in the early 70's.  In 1972 a bootleg 4-album set of Beatles songs was produced called "Alpha Omega" which sold well when marketed on TV.  In response - in addition to suing - Apple and EMI/Capitol Records produced an authorized collection in two double albums.  The first was called 1962-1966, also known as the Red Album, while the second was called 1967-1970, also known as the Blue Album.     The Blue Album was a compilation of Lennon-McCartney origi...
2025-01-0637 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1973 - May: the Beatles ”1962-1966” and ”1967-1970”Echoes of the trajectory of the Beatles still reverberate through music today, and they loomed quite large over the rock scene in the early 70's.  In 1972 a bootleg 4-album set of Beatles songs was produced called "Alpha Omega" which sold well when marketed on TV.  In response - in addition to suing - Apple and EMI/Capitol Records produced an authorized collection in two double albums.  The first was called 1962-1966, also known as the Red Album, while the second was called 1967-1970, also known as the Blue Album.     The Blue Album was a compilation of Lennon-McCartney origi...
2025-01-0637 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1974 - May: Billy Joel ”Piano Man”When you think of rock music anchored by piano, there are only a few standouts.  But outside of Elton John, perhaps the best known rock pianist is New York's Billy Joel.  Born in the Bronx and growing up in Long Island, Joel got his start early (at age 4) with piano lessons and dropped out of high school to pursue music full time.  After joining a couple of short-lived bands, Joel started his solo career and released his debut album, "Cold Spring Harbor" in 1971. It was his second album which would be remembered as his true nationwide debut.  Pian...
2024-12-3047 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1974 - May: Billy Joel ”Piano Man”When you think of rock music anchored by piano, there are only a few standouts.  But outside of Elton John, perhaps the best known rock pianist is New York's Billy Joel.  Born in the Bronx and growing up in Long Island, Joel got his start early (at age 4) with piano lessons and dropped out of high school to pursue music full time.  After joining a couple of short-lived bands, Joel started his solo career and released his debut album, "Cold Spring Harbor" in 1971. It was his second album which would be remembered as his true nationwide debut.  Pian...
2024-12-3047 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1967 - March: Bob Dylan “Bob Dylan’s Greatest Hits”One of the greatest songwriters of the 60's, Bob Dylan had released seven solo albums between 1962 and 1966.  Bob Dylan's Greatest Hits compiles many of the singles from this period along with some of the songs Dylan wrote for other musicians.  The compilation went to number 10 on the Billboard 200 chart, number 3 on the UK album chart, and has been certified five times platinum by the RIAA. In the summer of 1966, Dylan crashed his motorcycle near his home, and took off time to recover.  The record company was anxious to follow up Dylan's successful "Blonde on Blonde" album, but had...
2024-11-1130 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1967 - March: Bob Dylan “Bob Dylan’s Greatest Hits”One of the greatest songwriters of the 60's, Bob Dylan had released seven solo albums between 1962 and 1966.  Bob Dylan's Greatest Hits compiles many of the singles from this period along with some of the songs Dylan wrote for other musicians.  The compilation went to number 10 on the Billboard 200 chart, number 3 on the UK album chart, and has been certified five times platinum by the RIAA. In the summer of 1966, Dylan crashed his motorcycle near his home, and took off time to recover.  The record company was anxious to follow up Dylan's successful "Blonde on Blonde" album, but had...
2024-11-1130 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next GenRocking Halloween III - A What the Riff Rabbit HoleWhat The Riff?!? makes another scary trip down the Halloween rabbit hole with these theme songs, movie and TV music, and rock songs with a bent towards the macabre.  We hope you enjoy this third edition of "Halloween" from What the Riff?!?  Highway to Hell by AC/DC  The opening track to the 1979 album of the same name features Bon Scott on his last album as lead singer of the group before his untimely death.  The name of the song was inspired by the group's gruesome touring schedule. Shout at the Devil by Motley Crue  The C...
2024-10-2850 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next GenRocking Halloween III - A What the Riff Rabbit HoleWhat The Riff?!? makes another scary trip down the Halloween rabbit hole with these theme songs, movie and TV music, and rock songs with a bent towards the macabre.  We hope you enjoy this third edition of "Halloween" from What the Riff?!?  Highway to Hell by AC/DC  The opening track to the 1979 album of the same name features Bon Scott on his last album as lead singer of the group before his untimely death.  The name of the song was inspired by the group's gruesome touring schedule. Shout at the Devil by Motley Crue  The C...
2024-10-2850 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1990 - October: Various Artists, Soundtrack for “Goodfellas”This week we are taking an opportunity to explore some songs which would normally be outside our time frame by following the soundtrack to the movie “Goodfellas.”  This Martin Scorsese film is a mafia story told from the view of Henry Hill in his book “Wiseguy:  Life In a Mafia Family.” The movie follows Henry Hill as he looks back on his life beginning during a time when he looked up to the Wise Guys and gangsters who ran his neighborhood.  Hill starts his narrative as a child in 1955 and continues until 1980 when Hill becomes an FBI informant o...
2024-09-0938 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1990 - October: Various Artists, Soundtrack for “Goodfellas”This week we are taking an opportunity to explore some songs which would normally be outside our time frame by following the soundtrack to the movie “Goodfellas.”  This Martin Scorsese film is a mafia story told from the view of Henry Hill in his book “Wiseguy:  Life In a Mafia Family.” The movie follows Henry Hill as he looks back on his life beginning during a time when he looked up to the Wise Guys and gangsters who ran his neighborhood.  Hill starts his narrative as a child in 1955 and continues until 1980 when Hill becomes an FBI informant o...
2024-09-0938 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1992 - June: Rage Against the Machine ”Rage Against the Machine”Rage Against the Machine recorded their eponymously named debut album in May-June of 1992 and released it in November 1992.  The Los Angeles-based group consisted of Zack de la Rocha on vocals, Tom Morello on guitar, Tim Commerford on bass, and Brad Wilk on drums.  The group was known for their anti-establishment and politically charged lyrics.  Rage Against the Machine combined a lot of genres of music into a single hard-hitting sound.  The influence of hard rock and metal is clear, and elements of rap, funk, hip hop, and punk rock are clearly infused into the sound. This group was...
2024-09-0244 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1992 - June: Rage Against the Machine ”Rage Against the Machine”Rage Against the Machine recorded their eponymously named debut album in May-June of 1992 and released it in November 1992.  The Los Angeles-based group consisted of Zack de la Rocha on vocals, Tom Morello on guitar, Tim Commerford on bass, and Brad Wilk on drums.  The group was known for their anti-establishment and politically charged lyrics.  Rage Against the Machine combined a lot of genres of music into a single hard-hitting sound.  The influence of hard rock and metal is clear, and elements of rap, funk, hip hop, and punk rock are clearly infused into the sound. This group was...
2024-09-0244 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1974 - August: Little Feat “Feats Don’t Fail Me Now”This week we are delving into one of the greats of Southern Rock.  Well, they are southern rock if you count southern California.  Little Feat took its name from a comment Frank Zappa made to his band member Lowell George regarding his having little feet. George would become a founder and driving force behind Little Feat, providing guitar and vocals.  Other members were Paul Barrere on guitar and vocals, Sam Clayton on percussion and vocals, Kenny Gradney on bass, Richie Hayward on drums and vocals, and Bill Payne on keyboards and vocals. Feats Don't Fail Me Now is...
2024-07-2937 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1974 - August: Little Feat “Feats Don’t Fail Me Now”This week we are delving into one of the greats of Southern Rock.  Well, they are southern rock if you count southern California.  Little Feat took its name from a comment Frank Zappa made to his band member Lowell George regarding his having little feet. George would become a founder and driving force behind Little Feat, providing guitar and vocals.  Other members were Paul Barrere on guitar and vocals, Sam Clayton on percussion and vocals, Kenny Gradney on bass, Richie Hayward on drums and vocals, and Bill Payne on keyboards and vocals. Feats Don't Fail Me Now is...
2024-07-2937 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1986 - January: Michael McDonald ”Sweet Freedom”We've made a few jokes in past episodes about Michael McDonald popping up in unexpected places.  It's an easy joke to make, because McDonald has a distinctive voice and has worked with a lot of artists covering numerous genres.  But the man is talented - both vocally and on the keyboards - and his career has put him at the forefront of rock music for a long time. Sweet Freedom is a compilation album that explores McDonald's work from his first two albums plus a number of collaborations.  The album title is taken from the track he had...
2024-06-0339 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1986 - January: Michael McDonald ”Sweet Freedom”We've made a few jokes in past episodes about Michael McDonald popping up in unexpected places.  It's an easy joke to make, because McDonald has a distinctive voice and has worked with a lot of artists covering numerous genres.  But the man is talented - both vocally and on the keyboards - and his career has put him at the forefront of rock music for a long time. Sweet Freedom is a compilation album that explores McDonald's work from his first two albums plus a number of collaborations.  The album title is taken from the track he had...
2024-06-0339 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1975 - July: Outlaws “The Outlaws”The Outlaws had a long history as a band prior to the release of this debut album.  Formed originally in 1967 in Tampa, Florida, the original name for the group was "The Four Letter Words."  They toured off and on through the early 70's, and made an aborted attempt at an album the late 60's.  Finally, they were signed by Clive Davis and Arista Records while opening for Lynyrd Skynyrd.  Ronnie Van Zant told Davis and future Outlaws manager Charlie Brusco, "If you don't sign Outlaws, you're the dumbest music person I've ever met - and I know you're not."
2024-04-2239 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1975 - July: Outlaws “The Outlaws”The Outlaws had a long history as a band prior to the release of this debut album.  Formed originally in 1967 in Tampa, Florida, the original name for the group was "The Four Letter Words."  They toured off and on through the early 70's, and made an aborted attempt at an album the late 60's.  Finally, they were signed by Clive Davis and Arista Records while opening for Lynyrd Skynyrd.  Ronnie Van Zant told Davis and future Outlaws manager Charlie Brusco, "If you don't sign Outlaws, you're the dumbest music person I've ever met - and I know you're not."
2024-04-2239 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1989 - July: The B-52’s “Cosmic Thing”Because all of us presenters live in Georgia it is hard for us to believe that Cosmic Thing, the fifth studio album from The B-52's was the international breakthrough album.  We had been listening to “Rock Lobster” and “Private Idaho” for about a decade before this album came out.  But much of the B-52's discography was confined to college radio stations outside of their home state.  Cosmic Thing would really put the group on the map nationally and internationally. This album was also a comeback for the group.  The original group consisted of Fred Schneider on vocals, K...
2024-03-2542 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1989 - July: The B-52’s “Cosmic Thing”Because all of us presenters live in Georgia it is hard for us to believe that Cosmic Thing, the fifth studio album from The B-52's was the international breakthrough album.  We had been listening to “Rock Lobster” and “Private Idaho” for about a decade before this album came out.  But much of the B-52's discography was confined to college radio stations outside of their home state.  Cosmic Thing would really put the group on the map nationally and internationally. This album was also a comeback for the group.  The original group consisted of Fred Schneider on vocals, K...
2024-03-2542 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next GenChristmas Songs that Rock part VIWhat the Riff!?! delves once again into the great (and not so great) Christmas songs to add a little cheer as you rock around the Christmas tree this year. “Carol of the Bells” by Mannheim Steamroller Mannheim Steamroller covers a Ukrainian carol from 1922.  They highlight a 3 against 2 polyrhythm that is present in the original song, and add a major key change that is not present in the original.  This is off their second Christmas album released in 1988 entitled "A Fresh Aire Christmas."   “O Come O Come Emanuel” by Bad Religion This fast-paced rendition takes an 8th century...
2023-12-0443 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next GenChristmas Songs that Rock part VIWhat the Riff!?! delves once again into the great (and not so great) Christmas songs to add a little cheer as you rock around the Christmas tree this year. “Carol of the Bells” by Mannheim Steamroller Mannheim Steamroller covers a Ukrainian carol from 1922.  They highlight a 3 against 2 polyrhythm that is present in the original song, and add a major key change that is not present in the original.  This is off their second Christmas album released in 1988 entitled "A Fresh Aire Christmas."   “O Come O Come Emanuel” by Bad Religion This fast-paced rendition takes an 8th century...
2023-12-0443 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1982 - December: Donald Fagen ”The Nightfly”The Nightfly is the debut solo album from Donald Fagen.  Fagen and his Steely Dan partner Walter Becker had released the Gaucho album in late 1980, and Becker was having a lot of trouble.  His girlfriend died of a drug overdose in their apartment, and he was sued for several million dollars.  Shortly after that he was hit by a taxi, which shattered his leg.  Steely Dan disbanded in 1981, and Becker moved to Maui.   Fagen wanted “The Nightfly” to be autobiographical, and without the irony and biting nature of Steely Dan.  There is a lot of adolescence and innocence...
2023-09-1150 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1982 - December: Donald Fagen ”The Nightfly”The Nightfly is the debut solo album from Donald Fagen.  Fagen and his Steely Dan partner Walter Becker had released the Gaucho album in late 1980, and Becker was having a lot of trouble.  His girlfriend died of a drug overdose in their apartment, and he was sued for several million dollars.  Shortly after that he was hit by a taxi, which shattered his leg.  Steely Dan disbanded in 1981, and Becker moved to Maui.   Fagen wanted “The Nightfly” to be autobiographical, and without the irony and biting nature of Steely Dan.  There is a lot of adolescence and innocence...
2023-09-1150 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1990 - March: Michael Penn “March”Most people are familiar with the actor, Sean Penn.  His older brother, Michael Penn went in a more musical direction, becoming a singer, songwriter, and producer.  His debut album, March, would achieve both critical and commercial success, peaking on the US album charts at number 31.  This would be his most successful album commercially, though his follow-up albums were received positively by the  critics. Manhattan native Michael Penn was the first son of actor/director Leo Penn and actress Eileen Ryan.  He began his musical journey in junior high school, and joined the Los Angeles band Doll Congress befor...
2023-08-1440 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1990 - March: Michael Penn “March”Most people are familiar with the actor, Sean Penn.  His older brother, Michael Penn went in a more musical direction, becoming a singer, songwriter, and producer.  His debut album, March, would achieve both critical and commercial success, peaking on the US album charts at number 31.  This would be his most successful album commercially, though his follow-up albums were received positively by the  critics. Manhattan native Michael Penn was the first son of actor/director Leo Penn and actress Eileen Ryan.  He began his musical journey in junior high school, and joined the Los Angeles band Doll Congress befor...
2023-08-1440 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1969 - September: The Beatles “Abbey Road”The Beatles were at the height of their popularity, and surprisingly near the end of their time as a group when they recorded Abbey Road, their eleventh studio album.  In fact, it would be the last album the group started recording, as Let it Be was mostly recorded prior to the Abbey Road sessions even though it wasn't finished until after Abbey Road was released.  John, Paul, George, and Ringo were iconic by this time, though all were still under 30 years of age.   The recording of this album was more harmonious than the Get Back/Let It Be...
2023-04-1038 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1969 - September: The Beatles “Abbey Road”The Beatles were at the height of their popularity, and surprisingly near the end of their time as a group when they recorded Abbey Road, their eleventh studio album.  In fact, it would be the last album the group started recording, as Let it Be was mostly recorded prior to the Abbey Road sessions even though it wasn't finished until after Abbey Road was released.  John, Paul, George, and Ringo were iconic by this time, though all were still under 30 years of age.   The recording of this album was more harmonious than the Get Back/Let It Be...
2023-04-1038 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1988 - June: The Coolies “Doug”We're going extra-deep this week with alternative rock group The Coolies.  The name comes from a derogatory term for 19th century Chinese immigrants who had to work hard for little pay.  The Atlanta based group was only around for about three years and produced two albums.  The first called "dig..?" was largely a collection of Simon and Garfunkel covers.  Their second album, Doug, is a rock opera with an odd premise. Doug follows the rise and fall of a skinhead named Doug.  He kills a transvestite who happens to be a cook, and becomes rich by using the s...
2023-03-2736 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1988 - June: The Coolies “Doug”We're going extra-deep this week with alternative rock group The Coolies.  The name comes from a derogatory term for 19th century Chinese immigrants who had to work hard for little pay.  The Atlanta based group was only around for about three years and produced two albums.  The first called "dig..?" was largely a collection of Simon and Garfunkel covers.  Their second album, Doug, is a rock opera with an odd premise. Doug follows the rise and fall of a skinhead named Doug.  He kills a transvestite who happens to be a cook, and becomes rich by using the s...
2023-03-2736 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1978 - March: Journey “Infinity”Infinity is the album where Journey takes on the sound we recognize as that monster of a group.  This fourth studio album is the first to include vocalist and front man Steve Perry in the group.  The group had been looking for a stronger lead vocalist, and had originally settled on Robert Fleischman for that role.  However, Fleischman was soon replaced by Perry after “musical and management differences” were encountered. In addition to Steve Perry, the band at the time included Neal Schon on guitar, Gregg Rolle on keyboards and vocals, Ross Valory on bass, and Aynsley Dunbar...
2023-03-2036 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1978 - March: Journey “Infinity”Infinity is the album where Journey takes on the sound we recognize as that monster of a group.  This fourth studio album is the first to include vocalist and front man Steve Perry in the group.  The group had been looking for a stronger lead vocalist, and had originally settled on Robert Fleischman for that role.  However, Fleischman was soon replaced by Perry after “musical and management differences” were encountered. In addition to Steve Perry, the band at the time included Neal Schon on guitar, Gregg Rolle on keyboards and vocals, Ross Valory on bass, and Aynsley Dunbar...
2023-03-2036 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1966 - December: Sam & Dave “Double Dynamite”Sam Moore and Dave Prater were known as Sam & Dave, a huge soul act from the late 60's.  They were known as The Sultans of Sweat, The Dynamic Duo, and Double Dynamite.  This album is their second studio album out of Stax Records, also called Double Dynamite. Sam & Dave are considered one of the greatest live acts out of the 60's, and a lot of musicians cite their influence on their work, including some you would expect like Al Green and Michael Jackson.  There are also a lot of musicians who were influenced who were significantly removed fro...
2023-01-1628 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1966 - December: Sam & Dave “Double Dynamite”Sam Moore and Dave Prater were known as Sam & Dave, a huge soul act from the late 60's.  They were known as The Sultans of Sweat, The Dynamic Duo, and Double Dynamite.  This album is their second studio album out of Stax Records, also called Double Dynamite. Sam & Dave are considered one of the greatest live acts out of the 60's, and a lot of musicians cite their influence on their work, including some you would expect like Al Green and Michael Jackson.  There are also a lot of musicians who were influenced who were significantly removed fro...
2023-01-1628 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1969 - July: The Easy Rider Motion Picture SoundtrackThe cult classic film Easy Rider was released this month.  A landmark counter culture movie, the film traces the journey of Wyatt and Billy as they make their way on motorcycles from a successful drug deal in Los Angeles to the Mardi Gras festival in New Orleans.  Peter Fonda, Dennis Hopper, and Terry Southern wrote the film, and it stars Fonda, Hopper, and Jack Nicholson.  Dennis Hopper directed the movie.   Originally the plan was for Crosby, Stills & Nash to do all the songs on the soundtrack.  When the editor plugged in contemporary songs as placeholders, the sound convi...
2023-01-0231 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1969 - July: The Easy Rider Motion Picture SoundtrackThe cult classic film Easy Rider was released this month.  A landmark counter culture movie, the film traces the journey of Wyatt and Billy as they make their way on motorcycles from a successful drug deal in Los Angeles to the Mardi Gras festival in New Orleans.  Peter Fonda, Dennis Hopper, and Terry Southern wrote the film, and it stars Fonda, Hopper, and Jack Nicholson.  Dennis Hopper directed the movie.   Originally the plan was for Crosby, Stills & Nash to do all the songs on the soundtrack.  When the editor plugged in contemporary songs as placeholders, the sound convi...
2023-01-0231 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1984 - December: Foreigner ”Agent Provocateur”Foreigner took  some significant time between their fourth and fifth studio albums.  Agent Provocateur was released in December of 1984 and made it to number 5 on the US charts.  Interestingly it hit number 1 in the UK, the only Foreigner album to do so.  It had a balance of heavier rock songs and lighter ballads, allowing the group to appeal to both male and female fans. At the time, Foreigner consisted of Lou Gramm on lead vocals and percussion, Mick Jones on guitars and keyboards, Rick Wills on bass, and Dennis Elliott on drums.  Jones and Gramm are the prima...
2022-12-1940 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1984 - December: Foreigner ”Agent Provocateur”Foreigner took  some significant time between their fourth and fifth studio albums.  Agent Provocateur was released in December of 1984 and made it to number 5 on the US charts.  Interestingly it hit number 1 in the UK, the only Foreigner album to do so.  It had a balance of heavier rock songs and lighter ballads, allowing the group to appeal to both male and female fans. At the time, Foreigner consisted of Lou Gramm on lead vocals and percussion, Mick Jones on guitars and keyboards, Rick Wills on bass, and Dennis Elliott on drums.  Jones and Gramm are the prima...
2022-12-1940 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1982 - August: Judas Priest ”Screaming for Vengeance”One of the founding groups of heavy metal is Judas Priest, and their eighth studio album entitled Screaming for Vengeance would be their commercial breakthrough album for North America.  In addition to the distincive vocals of Rob Halford, the Judas Priest lineup for this album included K.K. Downing and Glenn Tipton on guitars, Ian Hill on bass, and Dave Holland on drums. Judas Priest was formed in 1969, but did not issue a record on a major label until 1977 and their third studio album.  Their sixth studio album, British Steel, was the first to feature Dave Holland on...
2022-07-1835 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1982 - August: Judas Priest ”Screaming for Vengeance”One of the founding groups of heavy metal is Judas Priest, and their eighth studio album entitled Screaming for Vengeance would be their commercial breakthrough album for North America.  In addition to the distincive vocals of Rob Halford, the Judas Priest lineup for this album included K.K. Downing and Glenn Tipton on guitars, Ian Hill on bass, and Dave Holland on drums. Judas Priest was formed in 1969, but did not issue a record on a major label until 1977 and their third studio album.  Their sixth studio album, British Steel, was the first to feature Dave Holland on...
2022-07-1835 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1970 - November: Derek and the Dominos “Layla and Other Assorted Love Songs”Today Layla and Other Assorted Love Songs is considered Eric Clapton's best work.  However, at the time that this double album debut by Derek and the Dominos came out it was considered both a commercial and critical failure.  Clapton met fellow Derek and the Dominos band members Bobby Whitlock (keyboards), Carl Radle (bass) and Jim Gordon (drums) when working with Delaney & Bonnie.  Whitlock and Clapton got together at Clapton's house and composed most of what would become the original songs on the Layla album. The name Derek and the Dominos was chosen by Eric Clapton because he was...
2022-07-0440 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1970 - November: Derek and the Dominos “Layla and Other Assorted Love Songs”Today Layla and Other Assorted Love Songs is considered Eric Clapton's best work.  However, at the time that this double album debut by Derek and the Dominos came out it was considered both a commercial and critical failure.  Clapton met fellow Derek and the Dominos band members Bobby Whitlock (keyboards), Carl Radle (bass) and Jim Gordon (drums) when working with Delaney & Bonnie.  Whitlock and Clapton got together at Clapton's house and composed most of what would become the original songs on the Layla album. The name Derek and the Dominos was chosen by Eric Clapton because he was...
2022-07-0440 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1989 - May: The Cult “Sonic Temple”Some of the most popular songs from The Cult come from Sonic Temple, their fourth studio album.  They garnered some attention in 1985 when the single “She Sells Sanctuary” off their second album hit the US charts, and they had established a solid following as a “post punk” or “goth rock” band, but Sonic Temple would put them over the top with its more hard rock appeal. The band lineup for this album consisted of Ian Astbury on vocals and percussion, Billy Duffy on guitar, Jamie Stewart on bass and keyboards, and newcomer Mickey Curry on drums.  Prior to Curry, the...
2022-06-2740 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1989 - May: The Cult “Sonic Temple”Some of the most popular songs from The Cult come from Sonic Temple, their fourth studio album.  They garnered some attention in 1985 when the single “She Sells Sanctuary” off their second album hit the US charts, and they had established a solid following as a “post punk” or “goth rock” band, but Sonic Temple would put them over the top with its more hard rock appeal. The band lineup for this album consisted of Ian Astbury on vocals and percussion, Billy Duffy on guitar, Jamie Stewart on bass and keyboards, and newcomer Mickey Curry on drums.  Prior to Curry, the...
2022-06-2740 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1965 - July: The Supremes “More Hits by The Supremes”More Hits by the Supremes is the sixth studio album by Motown's all female group, The Supremes. The album is composed largely of songs already released as singles and their B-sides. The group was composed of vocalists Mary Wilson, Florence Ballard, and Diana Ross.  The group was renamed Diana Ross & the Supremes in 1967, but at this time they were still known as The Supremes. Originally formed in 1959 as The Primettes after being introduced to Berry Gordy by Smoky Robinson, the group began as a quartet including Betty McGlown.  McGlown was replaced with Barbara Martin in 1960, then became a...
2022-02-0727 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1965 - July: The Supremes “More Hits by The Supremes”More Hits by the Supremes is the sixth studio album by Motown's all female group, The Supremes. The album is composed largely of songs already released as singles and their B-sides. The group was composed of vocalists Mary Wilson, Florence Ballard, and Diana Ross.  The group was renamed Diana Ross & the Supremes in 1967, but at this time they were still known as The Supremes. Originally formed in 1959 as The Primettes after being introduced to Berry Gordy by Smoky Robinson, the group began as a quartet including Betty McGlown.  McGlown was replaced with Barbara Martin in 1960, then became a...
2022-02-0727 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1986 - September: Bon Jovi “Slippery When Wet”This is the album that turned heavy metal into pop, or started the hair metal genre of the 80's.  Slippery When Wet was the third studio album by Bon Jovi, and would be their best selling album to date. The band was David Bryan on keyboards, Tico Torres on percussion, Alec John Such on bass, Richie Sambora on guitar, and Jon Bon Jovi on lead vocals and rhythm guitar. Bon Jovi deliberately targeted a mainstream audience with this album.  They wrote 30 songs and auditioned them to teenagers in New York and New Jersey.  The album's son...
2022-01-1745 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1986 - September: Bon Jovi “Slippery When Wet”This is the album that turned heavy metal into pop, or started the hair metal genre of the 80's.  Slippery When Wet was the third studio album by Bon Jovi, and would be their best selling album to date. The band was David Bryan on keyboards, Tico Torres on percussion, Alec John Such on bass, Richie Sambora on guitar, and Jon Bon Jovi on lead vocals and rhythm guitar. Bon Jovi deliberately targeted a mainstream audience with this album.  They wrote 30 songs and auditioned them to teenagers in New York and New Jersey.  The album's son...
2022-01-1745 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1967 - October: Buffalo Springfield “Buffalo Springfield Again”Buffalo Springfield was a fusion of Canadian and American musicians, and was also a fusion of folk, country, and psychedelic rock.  The band lineup included Canadians Neil Young, Bruce Palmer, and Dewey Martin, and Americans Stephen Stills and Richie Furay.  While their debut album was recorded quickly, their second album, Buffalo Springfield Again, would be recorded over a period of nine months.  This was due to Young frequently departing from the band, and to bassist Bruce Palmer being deported and having to sneak into the country illegally to record the album. Young and Stills had met in 1965 in...
2022-01-1033 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1967 - October: Buffalo Springfield “Buffalo Springfield Again”Buffalo Springfield was a fusion of Canadian and American musicians, and was also a fusion of folk, country, and psychedelic rock.  The band lineup included Canadians Neil Young, Bruce Palmer, and Dewey Martin, and Americans Stephen Stills and Richie Furay.  While their debut album was recorded quickly, their second album, Buffalo Springfield Again, would be recorded over a period of nine months.  This was due to Young frequently departing from the band, and to bassist Bruce Palmer being deported and having to sneak into the country illegally to record the album. Young and Stills had met in 1965 in...
2022-01-1033 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1977 - August: Billy Joel “The Stranger”By the time Billy Joel released The Stranger, his fifth studio album, he was at risk of being dropped by Columbia Records.  His second album, Piano Man, had been a surprise success, but the follow-up third and fourth studio albums had met with disappointing commercial appeal.    Joel had a solid band that had toured with him for his previous album, Turnstiles, and he wanted to keep that band for the next album.  He first considered Beatles producer George Martin to be his producer for this album, but decided against him when Martin wanted to use session players inst...
2021-11-2241 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1977 - August: Billy Joel “The Stranger”By the time Billy Joel released The Stranger, his fifth studio album, he was at risk of being dropped by Columbia Records.  His second album, Piano Man, had been a surprise success, but the follow-up third and fourth studio albums had met with disappointing commercial appeal.    Joel had a solid band that had toured with him for his previous album, Turnstiles, and he wanted to keep that band for the next album.  He first considered Beatles producer George Martin to be his producer for this album, but decided against him when Martin wanted to use session players inst...
2021-11-2241 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1983 - March: Saga “Worlds Apart”Canadian prog rock band Saga released their fourth album Worlds Apart in September 1981, but it took some time to catch fire.  By March 1983 their first single was peaking on the charts.   Rupert Hine, producer for Canadian power trio Rush, also produced this album which was both a critical and commercial success.  The band consisted of Steve Negus on percussion, Jim Gilmour on lead synthesizer, Ian Crichton on guitar, Jim Crichton on bass and keyboards, and Michael Sadler on lead vocals.  Sadler and Jim Crichton were the primary songwriters for the band. This album seemed to hit a swee...
2021-10-1145 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1983 - March: Saga “Worlds Apart”Canadian prog rock band Saga released their fourth album Worlds Apart in September 1981, but it took some time to catch fire.  By March 1983 their first single was peaking on the charts.   Rupert Hine, producer for Canadian power trio Rush, also produced this album which was both a critical and commercial success.  The band consisted of Steve Negus on percussion, Jim Gilmour on lead synthesizer, Ian Crichton on guitar, Jim Crichton on bass and keyboards, and Michael Sadler on lead vocals.  Sadler and Jim Crichton were the primary songwriters for the band. This album seemed to hit a swee...
2021-10-1145 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1976 - June: Steve Miller Band “Fly Like an Eagle”Believe it or not, Fly Like an Eagle is the ninth studio album by the Steve Miller Band.  Guitarist, lead singer, and founder Steve Miller got his start in Chicago playing the blues.  He formed the Steve Miller Blues Band after moving to San Francisco in 1966, and shortened it to the Steve Miller Band not long after its formation.  The band started with a psychedelic rock feel in their first albums, transitioning to a more straightforward rock sound with the 1973 album  The Joker, and continuing with their 1976 release, Fly Like an Eagle. This album was largely written by M...
2021-10-0442 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1976 - June: Steve Miller Band “Fly Like an Eagle”Believe it or not, Fly Like an Eagle is the ninth studio album by the Steve Miller Band.  Guitarist, lead singer, and founder Steve Miller got his start in Chicago playing the blues.  He formed the Steve Miller Blues Band after moving to San Francisco in 1966, and shortened it to the Steve Miller Band not long after its formation.  The band started with a psychedelic rock feel in their first albums, transitioning to a more straightforward rock sound with the 1973 album  The Joker, and continuing with their 1976 release, Fly Like an Eagle. This album was largely written by M...
2021-10-0442 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1994 - November: Dave Matthews Band “Under the Table and Dreaming”While Under the Table and Dreaming may have been released in September 1994 as the debut studio album by the Dave Matthews Band, songwriter and guitarist David John Matthews was working as a bartender in 1990 when a friend encouraged him to get together with drummer Carter Beauford and record a demo of a few songs he had written.  Matthews also brought in saxophonist LeRoi Moore, and the trio began working on songs in 1991.  Beauford recalled the three piece band was, according to Wikipedia “Awful.  Not just kind of bad, I mean heinously bad...Sometimes it amazes me that we ever had a...
2021-07-2643 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1994 - November: Dave Matthews Band “Under the Table and Dreaming”While Under the Table and Dreaming may have been released in September 1994 as the debut studio album by the Dave Matthews Band, songwriter and guitarist David John Matthews was working as a bartender in 1990 when a friend encouraged him to get together with drummer Carter Beauford and record a demo of a few songs he had written.  Matthews also brought in saxophonist LeRoi Moore, and the trio began working on songs in 1991.  Beauford recalled the three piece band was, according to Wikipedia “Awful.  Not just kind of bad, I mean heinously bad...Sometimes it amazes me that we ever had a...
2021-07-2643 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1984 - June: Night Ranger “Midnight Madness”Night Ranger was a reliable hit machine in the mid-80's and their second studio album Midnight Madness was the one that solidified this reputation.  The group originally started as a trio with Jack Blades on bass, Brad Gillis on guitar, and Kelly Keagy on drums.  Keyboardist Alan Fitzgerald came out of the group Montrose to join the band, and he recommended guitarist Jeff Watson.  The group was originally called Stereo, then changed their name to Ranger.  The name was modified to Night Ranger to avoid a trademark infringement with a country band of the same name. Nigh...
2021-03-2942 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1984 - June: Night Ranger “Midnight Madness”Night Ranger was a reliable hit machine in the mid-80's and their second studio album Midnight Madness was the one that solidified this reputation.  The group originally started as a trio with Jack Blades on bass, Brad Gillis on guitar, and Kelly Keagy on drums.  Keyboardist Alan Fitzgerald came out of the group Montrose to join the band, and he recommended guitarist Jeff Watson.  The group was originally called Stereo, then changed their name to Ranger.  The name was modified to Night Ranger to avoid a trademark infringement with a country band of the same name. Nigh...
2021-03-2942 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1991 - January: Jesus Jones ”Doubt”A little alternative rock, a little electronica, the UK's Jesus Jones had a hit on their hands with their second studio album, Doubt.   It was recorded in 1990 and released in January 1991. The band got their name when founders Mike Edwards (vocals, keyboards, guitar), Jerry DeBorg (guitar), and Ian Baker (keyboards) decided to form the band while vacationing in Spain.  They realized while sitting on the beach that they were three "Joneses" surrounded by a bunch of people named Jesus. Jesus Jones achieved some success with their debut album, but things really took off with this se...
2020-12-0740 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1991 - January: Jesus Jones ”Doubt”A little alternative rock, a little electronica, the UK's Jesus Jones had a hit on their hands with their second studio album, Doubt.   It was recorded in 1990 and released in January 1991. The band got their name when founders Mike Edwards (vocals, keyboards, guitar), Jerry DeBorg (guitar), and Ian Baker (keyboards) decided to form the band while vacationing in Spain.  They realized while sitting on the beach that they were three "Joneses" surrounded by a bunch of people named Jesus. Jesus Jones achieved some success with their debut album, but things really took off with this se...
2020-12-0740 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next GenChristmas Songs That Rock (III)!Believe it or not, we've made it to the Christmas season 2020 - and for some of us, its about time!  We hope your Christmas is a good one, and hope you get a chance to listen to some of these Christmas Songs that Rock on this Rabbit Hole episode! “Step Into Christmas” by Elton John This original song by John and Taupin has become a standard since it was originally released in 1973 as a single, and as a bonus track on the Caribou album. “Gabriel's Message” by Sting A cover of an obscure Basque folk carol bas...
2020-11-3047 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next GenChristmas Songs That Rock (III)!Believe it or not, we've made it to the Christmas season 2020 - and for some of us, its about time!  We hope your Christmas is a good one, and hope you get a chance to listen to some of these Christmas Songs that Rock on this Rabbit Hole episode! “Step Into Christmas” by Elton John This original song by John and Taupin has become a standard since it was originally released in 1973 as a single, and as a bonus track on the Caribou album. “Gabriel's Message” by Sting A cover of an obscure Basque folk carol bas...
2020-11-3047 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1983 - November: Billy Idol ”Rebel Yell”Did the artists make MTV, or did MTV make the artists?  There is no doubt about the complementary relationship between the then-new music video channel and rocker Billy Idol.  He had exploded on the scene with his debut solo album featuring hits such as "White Wedding" and "Dancing With Myself."  His popularity would continue with his second studio album, Rebel Yell.   Born as William Michael Albert Broad, Billy Idol found his studio name in a schoolteacher's derogatory description of him as "idle."  Billy Idol got his start in the punk scene.  He started performing with a retro-rock band c...
2020-11-1640 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1983 - November: Billy Idol ”Rebel Yell”Did the artists make MTV, or did MTV make the artists?  There is no doubt about the complementary relationship between the then-new music video channel and rocker Billy Idol.  He had exploded on the scene with his debut solo album featuring hits such as "White Wedding" and "Dancing With Myself."  His popularity would continue with his second studio album, Rebel Yell.   Born as William Michael Albert Broad, Billy Idol found his studio name in a schoolteacher's derogatory description of him as "idle."  Billy Idol got his start in the punk scene.  He started performing with a retro-rock band c...
2020-11-1640 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1981 - June: Billy Squier ”Don’t Say No”This second studio album is the one that would put Billy Squier at the top of the arena rock world in 1981.  Don't Say No would produce Squier's first breakthrough single, “The Stroke,” a critique of the music industry, and the album would continue to contribute singles and AOR hits as it remained on the Billboard album charts for over 2 years. Billy Squier got his start in the Boston music scene in the late 60's, playing in locally successful groups through the 70's, and releasing a moderately successful solo album in the spring of 1980.  Squier approached Brian May of Que...
2020-11-0938 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1981 - June: Billy Squier ”Don’t Say No”This second studio album is the one that would put Billy Squier at the top of the arena rock world in 1981.  Don't Say No would produce Squier's first breakthrough single, “The Stroke,” a critique of the music industry, and the album would continue to contribute singles and AOR hits as it remained on the Billboard album charts for over 2 years. Billy Squier got his start in the Boston music scene in the late 60's, playing in locally successful groups through the 70's, and releasing a moderately successful solo album in the spring of 1980.  Squier approached Brian May of Que...
2020-11-0938 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1994 - April: Hole ”Live Through This”Courtney Love's band Hole released their second album, Live Through This one week after the death of Kurt Cobain, Love's husband and front man for the grunge giant Nirvana.  Hole originated in the punk rock scene, but are often identified with the grunge movement due to Love's relationship with Cobain and their move to Washington to write this album. In addition to frontwoman Love, the band consisted of Eric Erlandson on lead guitar, Kristen Pfaff on bass, and Patty Schemel on drums.  Love and Erlandson wrote the songs, and Pfaff and Schemel were newcomers to the group, re...
2020-09-1434 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1994 - April: Hole ”Live Through This”Courtney Love's band Hole released their second album, Live Through This one week after the death of Kurt Cobain, Love's husband and front man for the grunge giant Nirvana.  Hole originated in the punk rock scene, but are often identified with the grunge movement due to Love's relationship with Cobain and their move to Washington to write this album. In addition to frontwoman Love, the band consisted of Eric Erlandson on lead guitar, Kristen Pfaff on bass, and Patty Schemel on drums.  Love and Erlandson wrote the songs, and Pfaff and Schemel were newcomers to the group, re...
2020-09-1434 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1973 — August: Lynyrd Skynyrd ”(Pronounced ’Lĕh-’nérd ’Skin-’nérd)”There are only a handful of bands who seem to jump fully formed onto the scene from their debut album, and one of these is certainly Lynyrd Skynyrd with their debut studio release (Pronounced 'Lĕh-'nérd 'Skin-'nérd).  Lynyrd Skynyrd is arguably the band that defines Southern rock.  Originally formed as “My Backyard” in 1964, the group would take the name “Lynyrd Skynyrd” in 1969, taking the name of a PE teacher (Leonard Skinner) at Robert E. Lee High School — a teacher whose strict enforcement of school policies against boys having long hair resulted in guitarist Gary Rossington dropping out of high school...
2020-08-3141 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1973 — August: Lynyrd Skynyrd ”(Pronounced ’Lĕh-’nérd ’Skin-’nérd)”There are only a handful of bands who seem to jump fully formed onto the scene from their debut album, and one of these is certainly Lynyrd Skynyrd with their debut studio release (Pronounced 'Lĕh-'nérd 'Skin-'nérd).  Lynyrd Skynyrd is arguably the band that defines Southern rock.  Originally formed as “My Backyard” in 1964, the group would take the name “Lynyrd Skynyrd” in 1969, taking the name of a PE teacher (Leonard Skinner) at Robert E. Lee High School — a teacher whose strict enforcement of school policies against boys having long hair resulted in guitarist Gary Rossington dropping out of high school...
2020-08-3141 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1971 - July: The Allman Brothers Band ”At Fillmore East”The Allman Brothers Band recorded their third album live in March 1971 over two days.  At Fillmore East would become their breakthrough album,  filled with enough blues-rock jams  to make it a double, despite the fact that there were only seven songs in total.  Brothers Duane and Gregg Allman realized that their strength was rooted in their live shows, and determined that the best showcase for them would be a live album. The band features Gregg Allman on vocals, piano, and organ, Duane Allman and Dickey Betts on guitars, Berry Oakley on bass guitar, and Butch Trucks and Jai...
2020-07-2044 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1971 - July: The Allman Brothers Band ”At Fillmore East”The Allman Brothers Band recorded their third album live in March 1971 over two days.  At Fillmore East would become their breakthrough album,  filled with enough blues-rock jams  to make it a double, despite the fact that there were only seven songs in total.  Brothers Duane and Gregg Allman realized that their strength was rooted in their live shows, and determined that the best showcase for them would be a live album. The band features Gregg Allman on vocals, piano, and organ, Duane Allman and Dickey Betts on guitars, Berry Oakley on bass guitar, and Butch Trucks and Jai...
2020-07-2044 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1978 — September: Boston “Don’t Look Back”Back in 1976 Boston took the rock world by storm with their debut, and largely self-produced, album.  This highly anticipated second album made its appearance two years later, a span of time which would in retrospect be considered quite fast - no other Boston album would appear for eight years.  Don't Look Back was originally entitled "Arrival," until the band discovered that ABBA had already released an album with that name.   Guitarist and producer Tom Scholz considered the album to be rushed out by the record label, and believed it was too short and needed another song.  This woul...
2020-05-1144 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1978 — September: Boston “Don’t Look Back”Back in 1976 Boston took the rock world by storm with their debut, and largely self-produced, album.  This highly anticipated second album made its appearance two years later, a span of time which would in retrospect be considered quite fast - no other Boston album would appear for eight years.  Don't Look Back was originally entitled "Arrival," until the band discovered that ABBA had already released an album with that name.   Guitarist and producer Tom Scholz considered the album to be rushed out by the record label, and believed it was too short and needed another song.  This woul...
2020-05-1144 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1968 - July: Pink Floyd “A Saucerfull of Secrets”In its second album, Pink Floyd would begin its transition from a psychedelic 60's era band to what would become an icon of the rock genre. A Saucerful of Secrets is a strange album, and the only one in which Pink Floyd would consider themselves to be a five piece band. Frontman Syd Barrett had begun his slide into insanity, and was too unstable for the band to rely on him for concerts and recordings. They brought in David Gilmour to supplement Barrett on guitar, while Nick Mason (drums) Roger Waters (bass) and Richard Wright (keyboards) continued in their...
2020-02-1036 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1987 - March: U2 “The Joshua Tree”There are a handful of albums that have never lost their popularity, but just get stronger over time, and The Joshua Tree would certainly be one of these giant albums. The fifth studio album by U2 would see the group coming back from the experimental feel of their previous album, The Unforgettable Fire, and taking on a more conventional approach. The Joshua Tree took the theme of "America" as the band had been spending significant time on tour in the country, and Bono was reading American novelists like Flannery O'Connor at the time. The Edge was inspired by American...
2019-12-0245 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1987 - March: U2 “The Joshua Tree”There are a handful of albums that have never lost their popularity, but just get stronger over time, and The Joshua Tree would certainly be one of these giant albums. The fifth studio album by U2 would see the group coming back from the experimental feel of their previous album, The Unforgettable Fire, and taking on a more conventional approach. The Joshua Tree took the theme of "America" as the band had been spending significant time on tour in the country, and Bono was reading American novelists like Flannery O'Connor at the time. The Edge was inspired by American...
2019-12-0245 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1986 - October: Drivin’ N Cryin’ “Scarred but Smarter”Athens, Georgia may have been known as the music hotbed during the middle 80's, but Drivin' N Cryin' out of nearby Atlanta was benefitting from the Georgia focus as well. Scarred But Smarter was their debut album created on a shoestring budget, with songs that reflect the sound of the Athens scene (where the album was recorded), but with lyrical depth and variety. After several down years, Drivin' N Cryin' is on the upswing again, and you can catch them on tour today. We are thrilled to have Eric Von Haessler of "The Von Haessler Doctrine" (WSB...
2019-10-1436 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1973 - July: ZZ Top “Tres Hombres”Yes, those bearded wonders, the trio of ZZ Top would find their breakthrough hit in LaGrange off their third album entitled Tres Hombres. With Billy Gibbons on guitar, Dusty Hill on bass, and Frank Beard (ironically the only member without a beard) on drums, ZZ Top would begin their climb to stardom via Texas blues/rock with this album. ZZ Top started in 1969 in Houston, Texas and are still playing together today after 50 years. ​We hope you enjoy this treat from the Texas blues trio as much as we do. Waitin' for the Bus Have Mercy! This is...
2019-09-3033 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1973 - July: ZZ Top “Tres Hombres”Yes, those bearded wonders, the trio of ZZ Top would find their breakthrough hit in LaGrange off their third album entitled Tres Hombres. With Billy Gibbons on guitar, Dusty Hill on bass, and Frank Beard (ironically the only member without a beard) on drums, ZZ Top would begin their climb to stardom via Texas blues/rock with this album. ZZ Top started in 1969 in Houston, Texas and are still playing together today after 50 years. ​We hope you enjoy this treat from the Texas blues trio as much as we do. Waitin' for the Bus Have Mercy! This is...
2019-09-3033 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1984 - April: The Cars “Heartbeat City”On Sunday, September 15th 2019, Ric Ocasek of The Cars passed away at his townhouse where he was recovering from surgery. This group was a staple of radio and video throughout the later 70's and 80's, and their album Heartbeat City propelled them to super-stardom both with the number of singles off the album and heavy video airplay on MTV. We covered The Cars' debut album on What the Riff?!? Ep. 28, but it seemed appropriate to make this group the first one we feature twice as a tribute to Ocasek and his work as front man of the group. We hope...
2019-09-2241 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1974 - October: Ted Nugents Amboy Dukes “Tooth, Fang & Claw”With Tooth, Fang, and Claw, the Motor City Madman released this seventh and final album as Ted Nugent's Amboy Dukes​. When they started in the 60's the Amboy Dukes were more popular, but over time Ted Nugent's star would overshadow the group until finally Nugent would go out on his own. Over time, Ted Nugent's personality and politics have become so prominent that it can overshadow his musicianship, and it is good to remember how incredible he is as a guitarist. ​Join us as we explore this hard rocking album. “Sasha”  This track is more mell...
2019-09-1642 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1979 - October - Toto - HydraComing off the success of their debut album, Toto took a turn toward the progressive rock sound with their sophomore studio album, Hydra. While many LA bands were hitting the club circuit, Toto was making their mark in the studios. The members of Toto are some of the most sought-after session musicians, but the band itself is made of high school friends and family, many of whom came from musical families and circles. Jeff Porcaro claimed that the name came from the Latin phrase “in toto,” meaning “all,” or “as a whole.” ​Musical Fact Finder and Friend of the show Do...
2019-07-2947 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1979 - October - Toto - HydraComing off the success of their debut album, Toto took a turn toward the progressive rock sound with their sophomore studio album, Hydra. While many LA bands were hitting the club circuit, Toto was making their mark in the studios. The members of Toto are some of the most sought-after session musicians, but the band itself is made of high school friends and family, many of whom came from musical families and circles. Jeff Porcaro claimed that the name came from the Latin phrase “in toto,” meaning “all,” or “as a whole.” ​Musical Fact Finder and Friend of the show Do...
2019-07-2947 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1986 - July - The Smiths - The Queen is DeadWhen you think of college alternative rock of the 80's, the group you are most likely to have in your head is The Smiths. Their third studio album, “The Queen Is Dead,” continues their brand of Manchester Brit-pop, decidedly pessimistic, but with accessible muscial hooks. The Smiths’ sound is largely due to the collaboration between front man Morrissey and guitarist Johnny Marr - sophisticated, critical, and downright depressing. Still this influential group has had a staying power beyond their contemporaries. Tim Andrews brings us this complex and bleak album as he guest-hosts this week's episode. The Queen Is Dea...
2019-05-2045 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1993 - March - Duran Duran - Duran Duran (the wedding album)After stratospheric commercial success in the 1980's, Duran Duran had been on a downswing before releasing this seventh studio - and second self-titled - album. They would hit the top 5 once again with what became known as “The Wedding Album” due to the album artwork showing wedding pictures from the band members' parents. This album was a comeback and reinvention of the group for the 90's. It has a wide variety of sounds and tempos, but maintains the distinctive harmonies for which Duran Duran was known. Join us a Rob takes us through this excellent album. Too Much...
2019-05-0642 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1980 - August - The B-52’s - Wild PlanetFolks, it's time to party! With their second studio album, Wild Planet, Athens-based band, The B-52's continued their new wave, high energy weirdness. Front man Fred Schneider's frequently spoken vocals and Kate Pierson and Cindy Wilson's harmonies give The B-52's a very distinctive sound — the beehive hairdo sported by Kate and Cindy gave the band its name. There's not a bad song on the entire album. We hope you enjoy this week's very upbeat installment of What the Riff! Party Out of Bounds This track starts the album with a high energy party song. Th...
2019-04-2237 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1980 - August - The B-52’s - Wild PlanetFolks, it's time to party! With their second studio album, Wild Planet, Athens-based band, The B-52's continued their new wave, high energy weirdness. Front man Fred Schneider's frequently spoken vocals and Kate Pierson and Cindy Wilson's harmonies give The B-52's a very distinctive sound — the beehive hairdo sported by Kate and Cindy gave the band its name. There's not a bad song on the entire album. We hope you enjoy this week's very upbeat installment of What the Riff! Party Out of Bounds This track starts the album with a high energy party song. Th...
2019-04-2237 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1973 - October - The Who - QuadropheniaOctober 1973 — “Quadrophenia By the time this sixth studio album (and second rock opera) rolled out in 1973 The Who were already icons in the Rock genre. The double album Quadrophenia tracks the downward spiral of a young “mod” named Jimmy in 1965 Brighton, UK. Some of the most well known Who songs originate from this rock opera including "The Real Me," and "Love, Reign O'er Me." We're joined this week by “What the Riff Friend” Tim Andrews from WSB radio and the Radio Labyrinth podcast to co-host as we delve into this giant group and album. “I’m One” This song...
2019-02-1841 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next GenEpisode 27: Christmas Songs that RockEpisode 27 — Christmas Songs that ROCK We're trying something new in this podcast, folks. As Christmas approaches, we're highlighting some of the Rock and Roll Christmas songs we've heard over the years. From the sublime to the slightly corny, covers to originals, Rock music has lent its voice to the Advent season. Join us this week as we review some of the classics and deeper cuts that have made for a Rock and Roll Christmas season. Bing Crosby and David Bowie - Peace on Earth/Little Drummer Boy This song was featured in September of 1977 for "Bing Cr...
2018-12-0345 min