Introduction:
Episode 36 showcases the global reach and timeless power of rock. From covers that became classics in their own right to genre-defining originals, Denny Somach curates another unforgettable journey through music and stories.
Santana, Guns N’ Roses & Benny Mardones:
The show opens with Santana’s reinterpretation of She’s Not There, breathing Latin-rock fire into the 1960s Zombies classic. Guns N’ Roses’ version of Bob Dylan’s Knockin’ on Heaven’s Door follows, an arena anthem during their Use Your Illusion era. Benny Mardones’ Into the Night stands out as one of only ten songs to chart on Billboard twice, cementing its unique place in pop-rock history.
Pete Townshend, The Beatles & Rainbow:
Pete Townshend shares reflections on The Who’s catalog before their 1981 hit You Better, You Bet. The Beatles’ Across the Universe offers a meditative interlude, while Rainbow’s Since You Been Gone injects high-energy hard rock written by Russ Ballard.
Boston, Thin Lizzy & Joe Cocker:
Boston’s Peace of Mind from their monumental debut album highlights their soaring harmonies and layered guitars. Thin Lizzy’s Jailbreak delivers dual-guitar swagger, while Joe Cocker reimagines Dave Mason’s Feeling Alright with his signature raw soul.
Bowie, Dire Straits & U2:
David Bowie’s Heroes provides emotional gravitas, capturing his Berlin-era artistry. Dire Straits’ Money for Nothing, presented here in its full album length, epitomizes Mark Knopfler’s fingerpicking style and biting commentary. U2’s I Will Follow closes this segment, showcasing the urgency and energy of their debut album.
ZZ Top & Closing:
ZZ Top wraps up the episode with Tush, a brief but electrifying slice of Texas blues-rock. Denny signs off with his signature reminder that the show is as much about the stories as it is about the songs.
FINAL NOTE
Episode 36 captures how reinterpretations, deep cuts, and chart-toppers all form the DNA of classic rock. From Santana’s reinvention to Bowie’s artistry and U2’s youthful charge, the show proves once more why this music endures.
Playlist
She’s Not There – Santana (4:12)
Knockin’ on Heaven’s Door – Guns N’ Roses (5:36)
Into the Night – Benny Mardones (4:30)
You Better, You Bet – The Who (5:36)
Across the Universe – The Beatles (3:49)
Since You Been Gone – Rainbow (3:17)
Peace of Mind – Boston (5:02)
Jailbreak – Thin Lizzy (4:01)
Feeling Alright – Joe Cocker (4:10)
Heroes – David Bowie (6:10)
Money for Nothing – Dire Straits (8:22)
I Will Follow – U2 (3:37)
Tush – ZZ Top (2:14)
