The Big Fat American Rock Show with Zach Martin: January 13 in Rock History
Rock history is alive and well on The Big Fat American Rock Show, hosted by legendary NYC and national radio personality Zach Martin. Airing Monday through Saturday at 12 noon Eastern on NEWHD Media, New York, the show dives deep into the defining moments of rock and roll. On January 13, 2025, Zach celebrated the history-making achievements of Pink Floyd, The Pretenders, The Police, and The Rolling Stones. With a mix of legendary stories, classic tracks, and Zach’s charismatic storytelling, this episode was a tribute to the spirit of rock and roll.

Pink Floyd’s Wish You Were Here
Released on September 12, 1975, Wish You Were Here by Pink Floyd is an iconic album that resonates deeply with themes of absence, loss, and the mechanization of the music industry. Following the monumental success of The Dark Side of the Moon (1973), the band faced immense pressure to deliver a follow-up album. The recording sessions at Abbey Road Studios were marked by both creativity and tension, reflecting the band’s evolving dynamics and the challenges of fame.
Central to the album’s theme is a poignant tribute to Syd Barrett, the band’s founding member and former leader, whose mental health struggles forced him to leave the group in 1968. Tracks like “Shine On You Crazy Diamond” poignantly encapsulate the band’s longing and admiration for Barrett, blending rich soundscapes with heartfelt lyrics. The title track, “Wish You Were Here,” further deepens this sentiment, delivering one of the most enduring ballads in rock history.
The album also critiques the commercial pressures of the music industry, particularly in “Welcome to the Machine” and “Have a Cigar.” Despite its critical tone, Wish You Were Here achieved both commercial and critical acclaim, cementing Pink Floyd’s legacy as pioneers of progressive rock.
The Pretenders’ Resilient Comeback
Released in January 1984, Learning to Crawl marked a triumphant yet bittersweet chapter in The Pretenders’ journey. Following the tragic loss of original members Pete Farndon (bass) and James Honeyman-Scott (guitar) to drug-related issues, the band faced a period of grief and reinvention. Frontwoman Chrissie Hynde, driven by resilience and creative determination, assembled a new lineup to craft the band’s third studio album.
The title, Learning to Crawl, reflects the band’s struggle to rebuild and move forward after their personal and professional turmoil. Hynde collaborated with new members Robbie McIntosh (guitar) and Malcolm Foster (bass), alongside original drummer Martin Chambers, to produce a record that blends rock, punk, and pop sensibilities.
The album features standout tracks like “Middle of the Road,” showcasing Hynde’s fiery vocals and introspection, and “Back on the Chain Gang,” a heartfelt tribute to Honeyman-Scott. Another hit, “2000 Miles,” became a poignant holiday classic. The record balances raw emotion with polished instrumentation, reflecting the band’s evolution.
The Police’s Humble Beginnings
In January 1978, The Police entered the studio to create their debut album, Outlandos d’Amour, with a shoestring budget of $3,000. Despite financial constraints, the trio—comprising Sting (vocals and bass), Andy Summers (guitar), and Stewart Copeland (drums)—crafted a record that became a cornerstone of their iconic sound, blending punk rock’s raw energy with reggae-inspired rhythms and infectious melodies.
The recording process was characterized by ingenuity and determination. The band worked with producer Nigel Gray in a modest studio, where their lack of resources pushed them to be creatively efficient. Songs like “Roxanne,” initially dismissed by record executives, became a breakout hit after its re-release in 1979, showcasing Sting’s distinctive voice and the band’s knack for storytelling.
The album’s title, translating loosely to “Outlaws of Love,” reflects its rebellious spirit. Tracks such as “Can’t Stand Losing You” and “So Lonely” combined heartfelt lyrics with upbeat arrangements, capturing a unique blend of angst and accessibility. While critical reception was initially mixed, the album gained momentum through relentless touring and word-of-mouth buzz.
Ultimately, Outlandos d’Amour laid the foundation for The Police’s global stardom, introducing a fresh sound that would shape rock and pop music for decades.
"Rolling Through Time: How The Rolling Stones Revolutionized Rock with Iconic Anthems"
Emerging from London’s burgeoning blues scene in 1962, The Rolling Stones built their legacy as one of the most influential and enduring bands in rock history. Founded by Brian Jones, Mick Jagger, Keith Richards, Bill Wyman, and Charlie Watts, the Stones took their name from a Muddy Waters song, signaling their deep roots in American blues. Initially shaped by Jones’ musical direction, the group quickly gained fame for their raw energy and rebellious persona. By the mid-1960s, Jagger and Richards had cemented themselves as one of the greatest songwriting duos in music, propelling the band to international stardom.
The Stones’ ability to evolve musically, incorporating influences from blues, rock, psychedelic, and funk, set them apart from their peers. They have continuously redefined themselves across six decades, selling millions of records, shaping rock and roll, and influencing countless artists.
The History and Making of Three Groundbreaking Tracks
“(I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction” (1965)
This song catapulted The Rolling Stones to global fame. Keith Richards famously wrote the unforgettable riff in his sleep, recording it on a portable cassette player. Initially uncertain about its potential, Richards envisioned the riff for horns. Producer Andrew Loog Oldham convinced the band to release it as a single, with its fuzz-laden guitar sound replacing the planned horn section. A critique of consumerism and conformity, Jagger’s bold lyrics resonated with the youth of the 1960s, making it an anthem for a generation. The track’s unprecedented success—it topped charts worldwide—helped define The Rolling Stones as cultural rebels.
“Paint It Black” (1966)
The band’s exploration of Eastern music shines through in “Paint It Black,” a darkly poetic piece steeped in the cultural and emotional upheaval of the time. Featuring Brian Jones on sitar, the song was inspired by George Harrison’s experiments with Indian music. The haunting melody pairs seamlessly with lyrics reflecting grief and despair, echoing the societal turbulence of the 1960s. Recorded at RCA Studios in Hollywood, the track demonstrated the band’s willingness to experiment and push rock’s boundaries, creating a timeless anthem of existential angst that still resonates today.
“Gimme Shelter” (1969)
Recorded during the height of global political and social unrest, “Gimme Shelter” stands as a powerful cultural statement. The song reflects the chaos of the Vietnam War era and the growing tensions of the late 1960s. Merry Clayton’s soaring backing vocals, recorded in a single, electrifying session, added a visceral depth to the track. Jagger’s chilling lyrics—“War, children, it’s just a shot away”—capture the fragility of humanity. The track, featured on the Let It Bleed album, has become one of the Stones’ most celebrated songs, embodying their knack for blending musical mastery with poignant social commentary.
Enduring Legacy
The Rolling Stones’ ability to create music that is both innovative and deeply rooted in their time has made them icons. These tracks exemplify their artistry, offering a window into the band’s evolution and their impact on rock music. With a career spanning decades, The Rolling Stones remain a testament to the transformative power of rock and roll.
Complete Track Listing
- “Shine On You Crazy Diamond (Part 1-5)” – Pink Floyd
- “Have a Cigar” – Pink Floyd
- “Back on the Chain Gang” – The Pretenders
- “Middle of the Road” – The Pretenders
- “Roxanne” – The Police
- “So Lonely” – The Police
- “Can’t Stand Losing You” – The Police
- “(I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction” – The Rolling Stones
- “Paint It Black” – The Rolling Stones
- “Gimme Shelter” – The Rolling Stones
The Big fat american rock show
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The Big Fat American Rock Show with Zach Martin
Welcome to The Big Fat American Rock Show, the ultimate destination for classic rock enthusiasts and music lovers alike. Hosted by the legendary NYC and national radio broadcaster Zach Martin, this electrifying show airs Monday through Saturday at 12 noon Eastern on NEWHD Media, New York. Each episode is a high-energy journey through the timeless riffs, unforgettable melodies, and fascinating stories that shaped the history of rock and roll.
Zach Martin, a celebrated voice in radio, brings decades of experience, charisma, and a deep love for music to the microphone. Known for his incredible storytelling and deep connections to the music world, Zach has been a staple of NYC radio for years, capturing the hearts of listeners nationwide. His passion for classic rock and his ability to transport fans into the heart of rock history make him a one-of-a-kind host.
On The Big Fat American Rock Show, Zach celebrates the legends of rock, from Pink Floyd and Led Zeppelin to Fleetwood Mac, The Rolling Stones, and more. Featuring thematic episodes, deep dives into music history, and exclusive insights into the lives of rock’s greatest icons, the show blends incredible music with behind-the-scenes stories that bring the songs to life.
Each episode includes:
- Thematic Rock Blocks: Explore unique themes, from British Invasion classics to American rock anthems.
- Historic Deep Dives: Celebrate key milestones and anniversaries in rock history.
- Fan Favorites: Relive timeless tracks and discover hidden gems.
Tune in to The Big Fat American Rock Show with Zach Martin for a vibrant celebration of classic rock and the unforgettable moments that defined a generation. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or discovering rock for the first time, this is the show that will keep you loud, proud, and rocking.