Episode Mentions
One Song · May 14, 2026
Devo's "Whip It" with Gerald Casale and Mark Mothersbaugh
“Record label that signed Devo and initially planned to drop them after Duty Now for the Future before Whip It's success”
Synthesizer production techniques and multi-oscillator Moog configurationsCall-and-response vocal arrangement in pop musicMusic video direction and visual storytelling in new wave
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Song Exploder · Oct 15, 2025
A-ha - Take On Me
“Signed a-ha to US deal; Andrew Wickham served as A&R guy overseeing producer selection and album development”
Music production techniques in 1980s synth-popHit song development and iteration processProducer-artist collaboration dynamics
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A History of Rock Music in 500 Songs · Jun 23, 2025
Song 178: “Who Knows Where the Time Goes?” by Fairport Convention, Part Two: “I Have no Thought of Time”
“Released Richard Thompson's early solo work; Joe Boyd joined their film music department, leading to Island Records sale.”
British Folk-Rock Genre DevelopmentRecord Label Economics and Artist DevelopmentSubstance Abuse in Music Industry
View AnalysisA History of Rock Music in 500 Songs · Mar 22, 2025
Song 177: “Never Learn Not to Love” by the Beach Boys, Part 4: “Sometimes I Have A Great Notion”
“Signed Beach Boys via Reprise subsidiary; rejected early albums due to Brian Wilson's involvement concerns”
Charles Manson's music industry connections and failed recording careerBeach Boys internal dynamics and creative decline 1970s-1980sLeadbelly's influence on American folk and rock music
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