Introduction:
Denny Somach returns with Episode 37, diving deep into rock’s creative highs and hidden gems. From southern rock beginnings to progressive grandeur, this setlist shows how versatile and enduring rock has always been.
Allman Brothers, Rundgren & McVie:
The show opens with the Allman Brothers’ Revival from Idlewild South, written by Dickey Betts. Rundgren’s I Saw the Light comes next, with Todd playing every instrument on the track. Christine McVie’s Got a Hold on Me follows, from her second solo album, highlighted by Steve Winwood’s synthesizers.
The Doors, Missing Persons & Deep Purple:
Ray Manzarek offers insight into The Doors’ LA Woman, one of their most iconic tracks. New wave act Missing Persons’ Walking in L.A.—led by Dale and Terry Bozzio, who met while working with Frank Zappa—brings ‘80s energy. Deep Purple’s Woman from Tokyo closes the segment, one of the last songs before Ian Gillan left in 1973.
The Who, Stones & Skynyrd:
The Who’s cover of Elton John’s Saturday Night’s Alright for Fighting captures their signature power. The Rolling Stones’ Street Fighting Man represents their political edge, while Lynyrd Skynyrd’s Saturday Night Special from Nuthin’ Fancy delivers southern rock grit.
Yes & ELP:
Yes’ Roundabout from Fragile stands as a progressive rock landmark. At their Rock Hall induction, it was performed with Jon Anderson, Rick Wakeman, Steve Howe, Trevor Rabin, Alan White, and Rush’s Geddy Lee filling in for Chris Squire. ELP’s Still…You Turn Me On provides a reflective, delicate contrast.
Crosby, Stills & Nash & Closing:
The episode closes with Suite: Judy Blue Eyes, written by Stephen Stills for Judy Collins, from Crosby, Stills & Nash’s debut album. It’s a fitting finale to a show that celebrates storytelling as much as the music itself.
final note
Episode 37 blends southern rock, new wave, prog, and folk harmonies, offering listeners a varied and powerful playlist. With stories and insights to accompany the music, Denny Somach ensures each episode remains a tribute to rock’s enduring legacy.
Playlist
I Saw the Light – Todd Rundgren (2:59)
Got a Hold on Me – Christine McVie (3:52)
LA Woman – The Doors (5:29)
Walking in L.A. – Missing Persons (3:58)
Woman from Tokyo – Deep Purple (5:48)
Saturday Night’s Alright for Fighting – The Who (4:35)
Street Fighting Man – Rolling Stones (3:16)
Saturday Night Special – Lynyrd Skynyrd (5:09)
Roundabout – Yes (8:29)
Still…You Turn Me On – Emerson, Lake & Palmer (2:53)
Suite: Judy Blue Eyes – Crosby, Stills & Nash (7:28)
