In Episode 21 of Rock and Roll For GrownUps, host Denny Somach takes listeners on a captivating journey through some of rock’s most iconic songs and the fascinating stories behind them. Featuring legends like Joe Cocker, Eric Clapton, Elton John, and Pat Benatar, this episode dives into the origins, inspirations, and cultural significance of timeless tracks. Along the way, Denny shares rare anecdotes, artist highlights, and insights that provide a fresh perspective on classic rock history.
Episode 21 Featured Artists
Joe Cocker
Joe Cocker was a powerhouse of raw emotion, celebrated for his soulful, gravelly voice and dynamic interpretations of classic songs. Born on May 20, 1944, in Sheffield, England, Cocker began his career performing in local clubs before catching his big break with a transformative cover of The Beatles’ “With a Little Help from My Friends.” His rendition became a hit in 1968 and was immortalized at Woodstock in 1969, where his electrifying performance made him a global sensation.
Cocker’s second album, Joe Cocker!, released in late 1969, showcased his ability to reinterpret well-known songs into soulful masterpieces. Tracks like “She Came in Through the Bathroom Window” highlighted his unique ability to strip a song down to its emotional core. His gritty yet tender voice paired perfectly with the arrangements of his collaborator Leon Russell, who helped organize the famous Mad Dogs & Englishmen tour in 1970.
Though his career faced turbulence in the 1970s due to substance abuse, Cocker staged a remarkable comeback in the 1980s. His hit duet “Up Where We Belong” with Jennifer Warnes won an Academy Award and a Grammy, reigniting his career. Over the years, he delivered memorable tracks like “You Are So Beautiful” and “Unchain My Heart,” solidifying his place as one of rock’s great voices.
Despite his passing in 2014 from lung cancer, Joe Cocker’s legacy endures through his powerful discography, celebrated live performances, and influence on generations of artists. His ability to inject raw passion into every song remains unmatched. Learn more about Joe Cocker.
Eric Clapton
Eric Clapton, hailed as one of the greatest guitarists of all time, has redefined rock and blues across a career spanning over six decades. Born on March 30, 1945, in Surrey, England, Clapton became a household name through his work with legendary bands like The Yardbirds, Cream, and Derek and the Dominos. His skillful guitar solos, marked by precision and emotion, earned him the nickname “Slowhand” and set new standards in rock music.
Clapton first rose to prominence in the early 1960s as part of The Yardbirds, where his blues influence shaped their sound. Seeking a purer blues style, he joined John Mayall’s Bluesbreakers, where he earned his reputation as a virtuoso. Clapton’s fame skyrocketed with Cream, a supergroup that fused rock, blues, and psychedelia, producing iconic tracks like “Sunshine of Your Love” and “White Room.” His work with Derek and the Dominos, particularly the hit “Layla,” remains a defining moment in rock history.
In 1974, Clapton launched a successful solo career with 461 Ocean Boulevard, featuring his reggae-influenced cover of Bob Marley’s “I Shot the Sheriff,” which became a worldwide hit. Over the years, Clapton delivered timeless songs such as “Wonderful Tonight,” “Tears in Heaven,” and “Cocaine,” showcasing his versatility across genres.
Despite battling addiction and personal tragedies, including the loss of his son, Clapton’s resilience and artistry never waned. A three-time Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee (as a solo artist and as a member of Cream and The Yardbirds), Clapton remains one of the most decorated musicians in history. His commitment to blues is exemplified through albums like From the Cradle and his Crossroads Guitar Festival, which celebrates and supports the genre. Clapton’s legacy as a musician and philanthropist continues to inspire. Explore Eric Clapton’s music.
Elton John
Sir Elton John is one of the most iconic and influential musicians of all time, known for his flamboyant stage presence, masterful songwriting, and unforgettable performances. Born Reginald Dwight on March 25, 1947, in Pinner, England, Elton developed his musical talent at a young age, attending the Royal Academy of Music. Teaming up with lyricist Bernie Taupin in the late 1960s, he began creating some of the most enduring songs in music history.
Elton’s 1971 album Madman Across the Water featured “Tiny Dancer,” a lush ballad with intricate piano work and vivid, poetic lyrics from Taupin. Though not an immediate hit upon its release, the song has since become one of his most celebrated tracks, beloved for its emotional depth and soaring melodies.
Over his career, Elton has released over 30 studio albums, selling more than 300 million records worldwide. From the rock anthems of the 1970s (“Rocket Man,” “Crocodile Rock”) to his 1990s ballads (“Can You Feel the Love Tonight”), Elton’s music spans decades and genres. His 1997 tribute to Princess Diana, “Candle in the Wind 1997,” remains one of the best-selling singles of all time.
Elton’s influence extends beyond music. An outspoken advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, he established the Elton John AIDS Foundation in 1992, which has raised millions for HIV/AIDS prevention and research. Knighted by Queen Elizabeth II in 1998 for his contributions to music and charity, Elton’s accolades include Grammys, an Academy Award, a Tony Award, and induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
Even in his 70s, Elton John continues to captivate audiences with his Farewell Yellow Brick Road Tour, marking the end of his touring career. His legacy as a musician, activist, and cultural icon is unparalleled. Discover Elton John.
The Doors
The Doors are one of the most iconic and influential bands in rock history, known for their dark, poetic lyrics, innovative sound, and the charismatic presence of frontman Jim Morrison. Formed in Los Angeles in 1965, the band included Morrison on vocals, Ray Manzarek on keyboards, Robby Krieger on guitar, and John Densmore on drums. Their music fused blues, jazz, and rock into a unique style that defined the late 1960s counterculture.
The band’s self-titled debut album in 1967 was an instant success, featuring groundbreaking tracks like “Break On Through (To the Other Side)” and their chart-topping hit “Light My Fire.” Morrison’s enigmatic lyrics, combined with Manzarek’s haunting organ riffs and Krieger’s intricate guitar work, set them apart from their contemporaries. “Roadhouse Blues,” from their fifth studio album Morrison Hotel (1970), became one of their most enduring songs, often covered by artists across genres. Its gritty, blues-driven energy showcased the band’s versatility.
Known as “The Lizard King,” Jim Morrison’s magnetic stage presence and rebellious persona elevated the band to rock god status. However, Morrison’s struggles with addiction and legal troubles often overshadowed the band’s success. His death in 1971 at the age of 27 marked the end of The Doors’ golden era, though the remaining members continued to record and perform together for a few years.
The Doors left a lasting legacy, influencing countless artists with their daring approach to music and lyrics. Inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1993, their catalog continues to captivate listeners, with songs like “Riders on the Storm” and “People Are Strange” remaining timeless classics. Explore The Doors.
The Spencer Davis Group
The Spencer Davis Group was a pivotal band in the British Invasion, known for their blend of blues, soul, and rock. Formed in Birmingham, England, in 1963, the band consisted of Spencer Davis, Pete York, Muff Winwood, and the teenage prodigy Steve Winwood. Steve Winwood’s soulful voice and exceptional keyboard skills became the hallmark of the group’s sound, earning him the nickname “The Boy Wonder.”
The band’s breakout hit, “Keep On Running” (1965), showcased their rhythm-and-blues roots and topped the UK charts. Follow-up singles like “Gimme Some Lovin’” and “I’m a Man” solidified their status as a major force in rock music. These tracks featured Steve Winwood’s unmistakable voice and energetic Hammond organ playing, establishing him as a rising star.
After Winwood departed in 1967 to form Traffic, the group struggled to maintain their earlier success. Despite this, The Spencer Davis Group’s influence endured, and their music became a cornerstone of the British R&B movement. Spencer Davis continued to perform until his passing in 2020, leaving behind a legacy of innovative music that launched the career of one of rock’s most iconic musicians, Steve Winwood. More about The Spencer Davis Group.
Traffic
Traffic was a groundbreaking band that helped pioneer the fusion of psychedelic, jazz, folk, and progressive rock. Formed in 1967, the original lineup featured Steve Winwood, Jim Capaldi, Chris Wood, and Dave Mason. Their debut album, Mr. Fantasy (1967), was a critical success, featuring the iconic track “Dear Mr. Fantasy.” The song’s introspective lyrics, combined with Winwood’s haunting vocals and the band’s experimental sound, epitomized the late 1960s counterculture.
Traffic underwent several lineup changes over the years, with Mason leaving and rejoining the band multiple times. Despite these shifts, the band released several critically acclaimed albums, including John Barleycorn Must Die (1970) and The Low Spark of High Heeled Boys (1971). These albums showcased their ability to blend improvisational jazz with folk-rock elements, creating a sound that was both innovative and timeless.
The band disbanded in the mid-1970s as Winwood pursued a solo career, but their influence on progressive rock and improvisational music remains profound. Traffic was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2004, cementing their place in music history. Learn more about Traffic.
Pat Benatar
Pat Benatar is a trailblazing figure in rock music, celebrated for her powerful vocals and commanding stage presence. Born Patricia Mae Andrzejewski on January 10, 1953, in Brooklyn, New York, she began her musical journey studying opera but soon transitioned to rock.
Benatar’s career took off with her debut album, In the Heat of the Night (1979), which included hits like “Heartbreaker.” Her follow-up album, Crimes of Passion (1980), cemented her place in rock history with tracks like “Hit Me with Your Best Shot.” These songs showcased her dynamic voice and fierce energy, making her one of the first female rock stars of the MTV era.
In 1981, Benatar released Precious Time, which featured the Grammy-winning “Fire and Ice.” This track highlighted her ability to combine raw power with emotional vulnerability. Over her career, she earned four consecutive Grammy Awards for Best Female Rock Performance and sold over 30 million records worldwide.
Benatar’s partnership with guitarist and husband Neil Giraldo has been a defining aspect of her career, with the duo creating some of rock’s most memorable songs. Inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2022, Pat Benatar continues to inspire new generations of artists with her groundbreaking contributions to rock music. Visit Pat Benatar’s website.
Steve Miller Band
The Steve Miller Band is a cornerstone of American rock, celebrated for their seamless blend of blues, rock, and pop. Formed in San Francisco in 1966, the band was founded by Steve Miller, whose early exposure to blues legends like Les Paul and T-Bone Walker shaped his musical style.
Initially rooted in psychedelic blues-rock, the band’s early albums, including Children of the Future (1968), gained critical acclaim but modest commercial success. Their breakthrough came in 1973 with The Joker, which featured the title track that became a cultural anthem. The 1970s saw the band’s peak, with albums like Fly Like an Eagle (1976) and Book of Dreams (1977), producing hits such as “Take the Money and Run,” “Rock’n Me,” and “Jet Airliner.”
The 1982 release of Abracadabra marked a shift toward a pop-rock sound, with the title track topping charts worldwide. Known for their accessible and upbeat style, the Steve Miller Band has sold over 60 million records globally.
Inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2016, Steve Miller continues to perform, celebrating a career that spans over five decades. Explore the Steve Miller Band.
Spirit
Spirit was a genre-defying rock band known for their innovative blend of rock, jazz, and psychedelia. Formed in Los Angeles in 1967, the band was led by guitarist Randy California, who had played with Jimi Hendrix as a teenager. Their debut album, Spirit (1968), introduced their experimental sound, while their follow-up, The Family That Plays Together (1968), included the hit “I Got a Line on You.”
Spirit’s magnum opus, Twelve Dreams of Dr. Sardonicus (1970), featured tracks like “Nature’s Way,” cementing their reputation as pioneers of progressive rock. Despite lineup changes and legal battles, including the infamous “Taurus” lawsuit involving Led Zeppelin’s “Stairway to Heaven,” Spirit’s legacy endures as one of rock’s most innovative bands. Learn about Spirit.
Traveling Wilburys
The Traveling Wilburys were a supergroup like no other, comprised of rock legends Bob Dylan, George Harrison, Jeff Lynne, Roy Orbison, and Tom Petty. Formed in 1988 almost by accident, the group began as a collaborative effort to record a B-side for Harrison’s single “This Is Love.” The resulting song, “Handle with Care,” was so well-received that it prompted the creation of an entire album, Traveling Wilburys Vol. 1.
Each member brought a unique flavor to the group. Dylan’s lyrical genius, Harrison’s melodic guitar work, Lynne’s masterful production, Orbison’s operatic voice, and Petty’s laid-back charm blended seamlessly into a cohesive and joyful sound. Tracks like “End of the Line” and “Handle with Care” became instant classics, celebrating the camaraderie and talent of these music giants.
Their debut album was both a critical and commercial success, earning a Grammy Award for Best Rock Performance by a Duo or Group. Tragically, Orbison passed away shortly after its release, but the remaining members continued with Traveling Wilburys Vol. 3 (1990). Despite its title, it was the group’s second and final album, featuring the same humor and charm that defined their first record.
The Traveling Wilburys disbanded in 1991, but their legacy lives on as a testament to the magic that happens when iconic artists collaborate. Their music remains a celebration of friendship, creativity, and the joy of making music. Learn more about the Wilburys.
Robert Palmer
Robert Palmer was an artist of immense versatility, known for his ability to blend rock, pop, soul, and blues into a unique and sophisticated sound. Born on January 19, 1949, in Batley, England, Palmer’s career began with stints in The Alan Bown Set and Vinegar Joe before he launched a solo career in the mid-1970s.
His 1978 hit “Bad Case of Loving You (Doctor, Doctor)” showcased his knack for combining catchy rhythms with playful lyrics, becoming one of his signature songs. In the 1980s, Palmer’s career reached new heights with hits like “Addicted to Love” and “Simply Irresistible,” which were accompanied by stylish, iconic music videos that defined the MTV era.
Palmer also collaborated with members of Duran Duran and drummer Tony Thompson to form the supergroup Power Station, producing hits like “Some Like It Hot” and “Get It On (Bang a Gong).” His suave image and impeccable musicality earned him widespread respect and multiple accolades.
Though Palmer passed away in 2003 at the age of 54, his legacy endures through his timeless catalog and his ability to redefine what it meant to be a rock star. More on Robert Palmer.
George Thorogood and The Destroyers
George Thorogood and The Destroyers are synonymous with high-energy, blues-infused rock. Formed in Delaware in 1973, the band quickly gained a reputation for their raw sound and relentless touring schedule. Led by Thorogood’s gravelly vocals and slide guitar mastery, their music modernized traditional blues while staying true to its roots.
Their 1977 debut album, George Thorogood and The Destroyers, introduced tracks like “One Bourbon, One Scotch, One Beer.” However, their biggest success came in 1982 with “Bad to the Bone,” an anthem that became a cultural touchstone, often featured in movies, commercials, and TV shows.
Thorogood’s take on Elmore James’ “Madison Blues” showcases his ability to breathe new life into blues classics, delivering them with a modern edge and electrifying energy. With over 15 million records sold and decades of electrifying live performances, George Thorogood and The Destroyers remain a staple of blues-rock. Visit George Thorogood’s website.
Saga
Saga is a Canadian progressive rock band renowned for their intricate compositions, sophisticated instrumentation, and unique fusion of rock and electronic elements. Formed in 1977 in Oakville, Ontario, the band’s founding members included Michael Sadler (vocals), Jim Crichton (bass and keyboards), and Ian Crichton (guitar).
Saga’s breakthrough came with their 1981 album Worlds Apart, which featured their most successful single, “On the Loose.” The track highlighted their melodic yet complex sound, blending progressive rock’s technical precision with catchy hooks. The song gained significant airplay on MTV, introducing the band to a global audience.
Known for their concept-driven albums and science fiction themes, Saga’s music often features intricate guitar and keyboard interplay, with Michael Sadler’s dynamic vocals at the forefront. Albums like Heads or Tales (1983) and Behaviour (1985) further solidified their place in the progressive rock genre, particularly in Europe, where they garnered a devoted fanbase.
Saga has released over 20 studio albums, with a career spanning five decades. Despite lineup changes, the band remains active, with Michael Sadler rejoining in 2011 after a brief hiatus. Their ability to balance technical prowess with accessible melodies has made them a standout act in progressive rock. Learn about Saga.
EP.21 Track Listing
- Joe Cocker – She Came in Through the Bathroom Window – 2:37
- Eric Clapton – I Shot the Sheriff – 4:24
- Elton John – Tiny Dancer – 6:15
- Crosby, Stills & Nash – Suite Judy Blue Eyes – 7:28
- Bob Dylan – Simple Twist of Fate – 4:18
- The Spencer Davis Group – Keep On Running – 2:35
- Traffic – Dear Mr. Fantasy – 5:44
- Pat Benatar – Fire and Ice – 3:20
- Steve Miller Band – Abracadabra – 5:08
- Spirit – I Got a Line on You – 2:37
- Traveling Wilburys – Handle with Care – 3:19
- The Doors – Roadhouse Blues – 4:04
- Robert Palmer – Bad Case of Loving You (Doctor, Doctor) – 3:10
- Saga – On the Loose – 4:12
- George Thorogood and The Destroyers – Madison Blues – 4:24
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