EP.22 Rock and roll for grownups
Rock and Roll for Grownups, hosted by Denny Somach, is a celebration of the music that shaped generations. This episode features iconic tracks from legendary artists such as Steppenwolf, Bruce Springsteen, the Grateful Dead, and more. These songs, rich in history and cultural impact, serve as time capsules of rock’s greatest eras. Let’s explore the backgrounds of the artists and the stories behind their timeless songs.
Released in 1968, Born to Be Wild is often cited as one of the first heavy metal songs. Written by Mars Bonfire (Dennis Edmonton), the track became an anthem for rebellion, freedom, and the open road. It gained iconic status after being featured in the 1969 film Easy Rider, symbolizing the countercultural movement of the late ‘60s.
Steppenwolf was formed in Los Angeles in 1967, led by frontman John Kay. They quickly gained a reputation for their hard-hitting sound and thought-provoking lyrics. Beyond Born to Be Wild, hits like Magic Carpet Ride and The Pusher cemented their legacy. The band disbanded and reunited multiple times, but their influence on hard rock and heavy metal remains undeniable.
Bruce Springsteen’s For You comes from his 1973 debut album, Greetings from Asbury Park, N.J. A deeply personal song, it reflects his early songwriting style—raw, poetic, and full of youthful passion. For You tells the story of an intense, possibly tragic romance, with Springsteen’s signature stream-of-consciousness lyrics.
Springsteen, affectionately known as The Boss, emerged from the New Jersey music scene in the early 1970s. His breakthrough came with Born to Run (1975), an album that defined his signature sound. Over the decades, he has released chart-topping albums and continues to perform to sold-out stadiums. His ability to craft working-class anthems makes him one of the most respected figures in rock history.
Touch of Grey was a defining moment for The Grateful Dead, as it became their first and only Top 10 hit in 1987. Featured on the album In the Dark, the song’s uplifting message of resilience—“I will get by, I will survive”—resonated with both longtime Deadheads and new listeners. The song’s MTV video introduced The Dead to a younger audience, boosting their mainstream appeal.
Formed in 1965, The Grateful Dead pioneered the jam band scene. Their unique fusion of rock, folk, blues, and jazz created a devoted following known as Deadheads. Their improvisational live performances became legendary, and while they never relied on chart success, they built one of the most enduring legacies in rock. Even after Jerry Garcia’s passing in 1995, their influence remains strong.
From their 1977 album I Robot, Breakdown stands out for its haunting melody and sophisticated production. Featuring Allan Clarke of The Hollies on vocals, the song blends progressive rock with symphonic elements, a trademark of Alan Parsons’ work.
Alan Parsons, originally a sound engineer, played a key role in the production of The Dark Side of the Moon by Pink Floyd before forming The Alan Parsons Project. Alongside lyricist Eric Woolfson, the duo crafted conceptual albums that pushed the boundaries of rock. Their influence on progressive and art rock remains profound.
This 1986 hit from Broadcast epitomizes the dramatic, synth-driven rock sound of the ’80s. Written by lead singer Nick Van Eede, the song explores heartbreak and longing. With its soaring chorus and polished production, it became an instant classic.
Cutting Crew, a British rock band, found immediate success with their debut. Though they struggled to maintain their commercial momentum, I Just Died in Your Arms remains a defining song of the decade, frequently featured in films and TV shows.
This 1988 track serves as a sequel to Your Wildest Dreams, continuing the story of love and nostalgia. Written by Justin Hayward, the song’s lush instrumentation and sweeping melody showcase The Moody Blues’ signature sound.
The Moody Blues gained fame in the late ‘60s with Nights in White Satin and became pioneers of symphonic rock. Their music blended orchestral elements with rock, creating a unique and lasting legacy.
From their 1969 debut album, Dreams showcases Duane Allman’s slide guitar mastery. A slow blues epic, the song captures the band’s Southern rock essence.
The Allman Brothers Band was among the first great Southern rock bands. With a sound that fused blues, jazz, and rock, they paved the way for future acts. Their improvisational style and legendary live performances made them one of the most influential bands in rock history.
Originally written by Bernie Taupin and Martin Page, These Dreams became a hit for Heart in 1985. Featuring Nancy Wilson on lead vocals, it marked a stylistic shift for the band toward a more polished, radio-friendly sound.
Heart, fronted by sisters Ann and Nancy Wilson, dominated rock in the ‘70s and ‘80s with hits like Barracuda and Magic Man. Their influence as a female-led rock band remains unmatched.
- Steppenwolf – Born to Be Wild (3:30)
- Bruce Springsteen – For You (4:40)
- The Grateful Dead – Touch of Grey (5:50)
- The Alan Parsons Project – Breakdown (3:45)
- Cutting Crew – (I Just) Died in Your Arms (4:39)
- The Moody Blues – I Know You’re Out There Somewhere (Album Version) (6:37)
- The Allman Brothers Band – Dreams (7:20)
- Heart – These Dreams (4:15)
- Lee Michaels – Do You Know What I Mean? (3:11)
- Ten Years After – I’m Going Home (5:16)
- The Rolling Stones – Jumpin’ Jack Flash (3:42)
- Rod Stewart – Every Picture Tells a Story (6:01)
- Bob Dylan – Highway 61 Revisited (3:30)
