Rock 'n' Roll with Me

Rock 'n' Roll with Me offers daily insights into rock 'n' roll and sixties onward music, focusing on notable songs, artists, and producers like Todd Rundgren. It explores influential tracks, the backstories of their creation, artist biographies, music industry dynamics, and nostalgic elements connecting listeners to music's legacy.

Music Analysis Artist Biographies Music Production Historical Music Context Music Industry Songwriting Cultural Impact

The hottest Substack posts of Rock 'n' Roll with Me

And their main takeaways

"Stage Fright" by The Band (1970) with Todd Rundgren as engineer/producer

559 implied HN points • 18 Jul 24
🎶 Music Rock Songwriting Music history Artist Profiles
  1. Todd Rundgren worked as the engineer and producer for The Band's album 'Stage Fright,' which showed his skills in the studio. He had to face challenges while recording, like setting up a makeshift control room.
  2. The song 'Stage Fright' is about the feelings many artists face, capturing the emotion of performing. It became one of the highlights of the album and a classic rock song.
  3. Despite being younger and less experienced than The Band members, Todd's dedication and hard work helped make the project a success, boosting his reputation in the music industry.

Crushing on the singer or rock star

419 implied HN points • 30 Jul 24
🎶 Music Artists Culture Interviews Emotions Performance
  1. It's normal to crush on musicians and rock stars. They create strong feelings in us through their art, and it feels like we connect with them on a deeper level.
  2. People often confuse their feelings for the artist with feelings for the person. We get swept up in the emotions their work brings out in us.
  3. Many of us don't pay enough attention to each other. When someone really listens, it makes us feel seen and loved, leading to these intense crushes.

"Piece of My Heart" by Janis Joplin and Big Brother & the Holding Company (1968)

379 implied HN points • 01 Aug 24
🎶 Music Rock History Artists Performances Albums
  1. Janis Joplin was full of life and passion, especially during her time in San Francisco's vibrant counterculture scene. She really embraced the rock and roll lifestyle.
  2. Her hit song 'Piece of My Heart' helped make her a star, showcasing her powerful voice and unique style. It was a big moment for her career.
  3. Even though Janis was a natural performer, she sometimes struggled with the recording process. She preferred the excitement of live shows over studio work.

"Last Night I Had a Dream" by Fanny (1973) with Todd Rundgren as producer

459 implied HN points • 23 Jul 24
🎶 Music Rock History Culture Bands Producers
  1. Fanny was a pioneering all-female rock band formed in 1969, recognized for their talent and influential music. They had several hits and were supported by notable music figures.
  2. Todd Rundgren produced Fanny's fourth album, emphasizing their song structure and harmonies, which earned positive reviews despite no chart-topping hits.
  3. Although Fanny faced challenges in the tough music industry and eventually broke up, their legacy inspired future all-female bands and individual members continued to make their mark in music.

"O-o-h Child" by the Five Stairsteps (1970)

299 implied HN points • 05 Aug 24
🎶 Music Genres History Artists Reviews Albums
  1. The song 'O-o-h Child' by the Five Stairsteps was released in 1970 and aimed to uplift listeners during tough times. It reminds us that things can get better, even when the world feels chaotic.
  2. The Five Stairsteps were a family music group from Chicago, known as 'The First Family of Soul.' Their name came from how they looked lined up by age, like steps on a staircase.
  3. The group's style evolved from matching suits to embracing individuality. Their performances reflected the changing culture of the late 60s and early 70s, showing off their talent and creativity.
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"Dancing Barefoot" by the Patti Smith Group (1979) with producer Todd Rundgren

379 implied HN points • 25 Jul 24
🎶 Music Rock Artists Albums Songwriting
  1. The song 'Dancing Barefoot' by the Patti Smith Group is a notable track from their 1979 album 'Wave', produced by Todd Rundgren. It's well-loved and has been covered by many artists.
  2. Patti Smith and Todd Rundgren share a deep friendship that began in the late 60s. Their bond was built on mutual respect and admiration for each other's artistic talents.
  3. The song is dedicated to women artists, showcasing Patti's love for strong female figures. It's recognized as a powerful piece about love and longing.

"Hello It's Me" by Todd Rundgren (1972)

459 implied HN points • 16 Jul 24
🎶 Music Artists Genres Albums History Culture
  1. Todd Rundgren's song 'Hello It's Me' became a big hit in the early 1970s, reaching high positions on music charts. Many people connect the song to feelings of young love and heartbreak.
  2. The song has two versions: a popular solo version and one from his band The Nazz. It's interesting to see how his songwriting evolved from his teenage years to his later work.
  3. Rundgren is a self-taught musician who used his piano skills creatively. His unique style and fashion choices also reflected the glam rock trends of that time.

Todd Rundgren as a songwriter and performer: The Creator Series #5

279 implied HN points • 02 Aug 24
🎶 Music Songwriting Performing Music Industry Creative Process
  1. Todd Rundgren believes there are different levels of musicians: entertainers, performers, and artists, with artists being the rarest who create unpredictable and unique expressions. He thinks being a performer is the best way to make a stable living in music.
  2. He values artistic freedom over chasing fame, using his success as a producer to create music that reflects his true self without worrying about commercial success. He sees the process of creating something from nothing as a key motivation for his work.
  3. Todd emphasizes the importance of practical help for artists, sharing how his manager supported him in both personal and professional matters, allowing him to focus on his music. He also finds inspiration from the music ecosystem around him and the collaborations he engages in.

"Peace Train" by Yusuf/Cat Stevens (1971)

239 implied HN points • 07 Aug 24
🎶 Music Artists Albums History Genres Live Performances
  1. Cat Stevens was super popular in the early 70s, with his albums selling millions of copies. Songs like 'Peace Train' and 'Morning Has Broken' were huge hits.
  2. He left the music industry in 1977 after converting to Islam, which shocked many fans. It was a big deal because he gave up a successful career.
  3. Cat made a comeback in 2006 under the name Yusuf and has been creating music and touring ever since. His song 'Peace Train' remains a favorite for its catchy and uplifting melody.

"Baby Blue" by Badfinger (1972) with Todd Rundgren as producer

339 implied HN points • 20 Jul 24
🎶 Music Rock Artists Production Songs Albums
  1. Todd Rundgren took over as the third producer for Badfinger's album _Straight Up_, stepping in after the previous producers faced challenges. He worked quickly to finalize the album in under two weeks.
  2. The hit song 'Baby Blue' was written by Pete Ham about a woman he met on tour. It became popular, hitting #14 on the Billboard Pop Singles chart in the U.S. and was later featured in _Breaking Bad_.
  3. Todd's approach to production was more controlling than the previous producers, which caused some tension with the band. However, his work led to successful singles and helped build his reputation as 'The Fixer'.

"I'm a Believer" by the Monkees (1966)

399 implied HN points • 12 Jul 24
🎶 Music Rock Pop Songwriting Bands Music history
  1. The Monkees were a popular band created for a TV show, and they captured the hearts of many young fans with their music and antics.
  2. Their song 'I'm a Believer' was a huge hit written by Neil Diamond, making it one of the best-selling albums in the U.S. during its time.
  3. The B-side 'I'm Not Your Steppin' Stone' shows a different side of the band with a more psychedelic and edgy vibe.

"We're an American Band" by Grand Funk Railroad (1973) with Todd Rundgren as producer/engineer

299 implied HN points • 19 Jul 24
🎶 Music Rock Production Artists History Culture
  1. The song 'We're an American Band' by Grand Funk Railroad, produced by Todd Rundgren, became a major hit and solidified Rundgren's reputation in the music industry.
  2. The recording of the song was quick, done within a few days, and it topped music charts, marking a successful moment for the band.
  3. Personal memories connected to the song highlight family dynamics and how music can create lasting memories, even amidst sibling rivalry.

Skylarking by XTC (1986) with Todd Rundgren as producer

239 implied HN points • 26 Jul 24
🎶 Music Rock Albums Producers Artists Songwriting
  1. Todd Rundgren produced the album Skylarking by XTC, which was a big deal because the band needed a successful record to stay with their label. They had many songs but no clear direction when they started.
  2. To create a more cohesive sound, Todd visualized each song with images, connecting music to themes like seasons and emotions. Most of the album turned out great, but one song, 'Another Satellite,' didn't quite fit and caused some tension.
  3. Despite some challenges during the album's creation, Skylarking ended up being successful, helping XTC to continue making music. The album received recognition and is considered one of the top albums of the 1980s.

"Shambala" by Three Dog Night (1973)

179 implied HN points • 06 Aug 24
🎶 Music Rock Pop Songwriting History Cultural impact
  1. The song 'Shambala' by Three Dog Night emphasizes positivity and kindness as a way to improve our lives and the world.
  2. Shambala is a legendary place in Tibetan Buddhism that symbolizes hope and peace, especially in tough times.
  3. Three Dog Night was a successful band known for their strong vocals and hit songs, including 'Shambala' which reached #3 on the charts.

Bat Out of Hell by Meat Loaf and Jim Steinman (1977) with producer Todd Rundgren

239 implied HN points • 25 Jul 24
🎶 Music Rock Albums Producers History Genres
  1. Todd Rundgren took a chance on producing 'Bat Out of Hell' when many record labels rejected it. He saw potential in the theatrical style and unique vision of Meat Loaf and Jim Steinman.
  2. The album combined rock music with a theatrical feel, challenging the norms of what a rock album should be. Jim Steinman's songwriting created a cinematic experience for listeners.
  3. Despite initial rejection and skepticism, 'Bat Out of Hell' became a worldwide success, proving that unconventional ideas can lead to incredible outcomes in music.

"You Can't Always Get What You Want" by the Rolling Stones (1969)

319 implied HN points • 09 Jul 24
🎶 Music Rock Artists Songs Live Performances Music history
  1. The Rolling Stones' song 'You Can't Always Get What You Want' reminds us that we may not always get what we desire, but sometimes we get what we need instead.
  2. The song features notable piano and organ work, showcasing the talent of the musicians involved.
  3. Many people enjoy learning about artists' creative processes and the stories behind their music.

"Day After Day" by Badfinger (1971) with producers George Harrison and Todd Rundgren

239 implied HN points • 22 Jul 24
🎶 Music Artists Albums Producers Songwriting History
  1. Badfinger had strong ties to The Beatles, which helped them get noticed and signed to Apple Records. They created hits partly thanks to Paul McCartney's early support.
  2. The band faced challenges with production and management, especially when inexperienced producers were assigned to them. This affected their music quality and output.
  3. Todd Rundgren eventually took over production and helped Badfinger achieve significant success with hits like 'Day After Day,' showcasing their musical talent.

"Chain of Fools" by Aretha Franklin (1967)

299 implied HN points • 11 Jul 24
🎶 Music Music history Live Performances Songwriting
  1. Aretha Franklin's song 'Chain of Fools' is a powerful anthem about heartbreak and feeling trapped in a relationship. It's a classic hit that resonates with many people.
  2. The song showcases Aretha's incredible talent not only as a singer but also as a captivating live performer. Her ability to connect with the audience makes her performances special.
  3. The post suggests upcoming songs, encouraging listeners to engage with requests and offers a fun vibe like a retro DJ. It's a great way to discover new music and reminisce about the past.

Todd Rundgren as a producer - The Creator Series #4

199 implied HN points • 29 Jul 24
🎶 Music Music Production Music history Innovation
  1. Todd Rundgren has a unique approach to production, focusing on helping artists get their music out of their heads and into a record. He believes each song is a new challenge and works closely with artists to find their best material.
  2. He emphasizes the importance of preparation before hitting the studio. Todd thinks that having a strong collection of good songs makes the recording process smoother and more enjoyable.
  3. Todd's commitment is to the artist rather than the label. He sees himself as working for the artist, understanding their financial struggles, and creating platforms that allow them to connect directly with their audience.

"Purple Haze" by the Jimi Hendrix Experience (1967)

279 implied HN points • 13 Jul 24
🎶 Music Rock Performance Songwriting History
  1. Jimi Hendrix is considered one of the greatest guitarists ever, and his song 'Purple Haze' showcases his unique style and innovative techniques.
  2. The live performance of 'Purple Haze' captures Jimi's impressive guitar work and the skill of his bandmates, making it memorable for fans.
  3. The song has become iconic in rock music and is loved for its energetic rhythm, perfect for dancing and acrobatics.

"I Saw the Light" by Todd Rundgren (1972)

219 implied HN points • 17 Jul 24
🎶 Music Artists Albums Songwriting Performances Reviews
  1. Todd Rundgren wrote 'I Saw the Light' very quickly, in just about 20 minutes. He played all the instruments and sang all the parts himself to make it sound just how he wanted.
  2. The song was part of his album 'Something/Anything?' and became a Top 20 hit, even though another song from the same album, 'Hello It’s Me,' ended up being more popular later.
  3. Rundgren also performed 'I Saw the Light' with Daryl Hall, showing that their music is still great as they get older. You can hear both his original version and this performance to compare.

"We Gotta Get You a Woman" by Todd Rundgren (1970)

219 implied HN points • 15 Jul 24
🎶 Music Rock Songwriting Artists Music history Cultural analysis
  1. Todd Rundgren's song 'We Gotta Get You a Woman' was inspired by his experiences as a young man in New York, feeling lonely and wanting to connect with others.
  2. The song faced some controversy over its lyrics, with some people feeling they were misogynistic while others saw it as just a story from a character's perspective.
  3. Songs can reflect different meanings depending on who sings them and when, so it's important to remember they aren't always giving advice, but are telling stories instead.

Todd Rundgren as a songwriter and performer: The Creator Series #3

219 implied HN points • 14 Jul 24
🎶 Music Songwriting Performance Biography Artistic Process
  1. Todd Rundgren's early exposure to music shaped his career as a songwriter and performer. He found inspiration at a young age, often experimenting with different instruments and sounds.
  2. His journey through various bands, like The Nazz, showed his evolution as a musician and leader. He faced challenges in managing relationships within the band, especially when artistic differences arose.
  3. Rundgren's creative process includes a strong DIY attitude, blending his musical skills with innovation. He emphasized the importance of playing live and getting experiences over waiting for big opportunities.

Carole King: The Creator Series #2

319 implied HN points • 23 Jun 24
🎶 Music Songwriting Artists Genres Music history Performance
  1. Carole King started making music at a very young age, with supportive parents and lots of practice. She began writing songs at just three years old.
  2. She faced challenges throughout her career but never gave up. Her perseverance helped her succeed in the music industry, and she learned a lot from her experiences.
  3. Carole's creative process involved teamwork and collaboration, especially with her husband. Together, they wrote many hit songs, including classics like '(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman.'

"I Say a Little Prayer" - The enduring magic of Hollywood's greatest songwriters, Burt Bacharach and Hal David

419 implied HN points • 28 May 24
🎶 Music Songwriting Pop Music Rock music Music history Music Industry
  1. Burt Bacharach and Hal David were an amazing songwriting team that created many famous songs together. They made music that took listeners on an emotional journey, combining catchy melodies with deep lyrics.
  2. Dionne Warwick was a key artist for their songs, bringing a unique style and emotion to their music. Her ability to handle complex tunes made her the perfect fit for their unique sound.
  3. The song 'I Say a Little Prayer' has been reimagined by many artists, showing its versatility. Aretha Franklin's cover turned it into a soulful classic, proving great songs can be interpreted in fresh and powerful ways.

The Todd Rundgren Creator Series

99 implied HN points • 05 Aug 24
🎶 Music Songwriting Performing Music history Artist Profiles
  1. Todd Rundgren has had a big impact on music as both a songwriter and a performer, especially during his time with The Nazz.
  2. He is also known for his work as a producer, where he has helped create hits for many famous artists over the years.
  3. The series includes insights into his career and aims to introduce new fans to his work while reminding old fans of his achievements.

Here's to you, "Mrs. Robinson"

399 implied HN points • 16 May 24
🎭️ Culture Film Music History Art Social Issues
  1. The song 'Mrs. Robinson' from the movie 'The Graduate' became a cultural icon and reflected the generational divide of the 1960s. It showed the struggles of young people against their parents' expectations.
  2. Both the film and the soundtrack were huge successes, winning numerous awards and ranking high on various lists, highlighting the powerful impact of music in cinema.
  3. Paul Simon's creative process led to the song's development during filming, showcasing how spontaneous ideas can turn into timeless classics that resonate with many people.

Petula Clark - The other British invasion

459 implied HN points • 02 May 24
🎶 Music Pop Rock History Performance Culture
  1. Petula Clark had a huge impact in the 1960s music scene with several hit songs, showcasing her talent and staying power even at age 91.
  2. She collaborated with songwriter Tony Hatch to create many popular songs and was a top-charting artist, rivaling even The Beatles.
  3. Petula also had a successful career in film and television, gaining recognition for her acting and her efforts to promote inclusivity in entertainment.

James Taylor: The Creator Series #1

239 implied HN points • 08 Jun 24
🎶 Music Songwriting Performance Music Industry Artist spotlight Cultural influence
  1. James Taylor believes songwriting is more of a mysterious process that comes from within. He says that sometimes, it feels like he's just the first person to hear the songs that were already there.
  2. Performing in front of small audiences helped him grow as a musician. He values those early experiences because they allowed him to test his skills and connect with audiences.
  3. For James, music is not just a job, but a way to connect with a community. He feels that playing music creates a shared emotional experience with the audience, which can be very powerful.

James Taylor's "Fire and Rain" + "You Can Close Your Eyes" with his son Henry Taylor

239 implied HN points • 04 Jun 24
🎶 Music Artists Songs History Performance Culture
  1. James Taylor's song 'Fire and Rain' was inspired by his struggles with addiction and the loss of a friend. He wrote it during tough times in his life.
  2. The song became a huge hit in the 1970s, helping to launch the singer-songwriter movement and leading to James' successful music career.
  3. Over the years, 'Fire and Rain' has been covered by many artists and is considered a classic, recognized for its emotional depth and beautiful sound.

"Just Dropped In (To See What Condition My Condition Was In)"

279 implied HN points • 11 May 24
🎶 Music Rock Pop Film History
  1. The song "Just Dropped In" was originally meant to warn kids about the dangers of LSD, showing the weird experiences of an acid trip. Over time, it became associated with fun and comedy, especially with the character of the Dude in 'The Big Lebowski.'
  2. Mickey Newbury, the songwriter, had a unique background as an Air Force veteran turned hippie cowboy. Despite his influence on many famous artists, he never achieved mainstream success like others did.
  3. Kenny Rogers led the First Edition, which blended styles like rock and country. Although they had hits, they struggled to define their identity as a band, leading to their eventual breakup.

"I Heard It Through the Grapevine"

219 implied HN points • 09 May 24
🎶 Music Rock Soul Cover songs Songwriting Music history
  1. The song 'I Heard It Through the Grapevine' has many great versions by famous artists like Marvin Gaye and Gladys Knight. Each version brings something special to the song.
  2. The song was created by talented Motown songwriters Norman Whitfield and Barrett Strong, who wrote many hits for various artists. Their work has had a lasting impact on music.
  3. Many artists have covered this song across different genres, showing its versatility and appeal. It's a song that continues to resonate with both old and new fans.

How Eric Clapton got "Bell Bottom Blues" and wooed away George Harrison's "Layla"

179 implied HN points • 22 May 24
🎶 Music Rock Artists Albums History Influence
  1. Eric Clapton wrote many songs for Pattie Boyd, who was originally married to George Harrison. His famous songs like 'Layla' and 'Bell Bottom Blues' were inspired by his love for her.
  2. The band Derek and the Dominos formed when Eric was struggling with his feelings for Pattie. They recorded an album that was initially not very successful but later became a classic.
  3. Pattie felt a lot of pressure being a muse for two rock stars. She eventually left George and married Eric, but their relationship had its challenges.

It's that "Time of the Season" to "Tell Her No," but uh-oh "She's Not There"!

199 implied HN points • 07 May 24
🎶 Music Rock History Culture Albums Artists
  1. The Zombies are a famous 1960s band known for their unique sound and hit songs like 'She's Not There' and 'Time of the Season.'
  2. Their successful music came from a mix of talent, early musical backgrounds, and the impressive environment at St. Albans School.
  3. After some ups and downs in their career, the band reformed and is still creating new music and touring, showing they still have the magic from their early days.

Doing "The Twist" with Chubby Checker

179 implied HN points • 14 May 24
🎶 Music Rock Dance Culture History Entertainment
  1. Dancing is for everyone, no matter your age or skill level. You can move to your favorite music in any way that feels good.
  2. Chubby Checker's song 'The Twist' became a huge hit twice, and it's a dance that anyone can do easily and with fun.
  3. Over time, people often lose their confidence to dance, but it's important to embrace joy and creativity, just like we did as kids.

"Sunny" - The inspired song that has, in turn, inspired so many other artists

199 implied HN points • 26 Apr 24
🎶 Music Songwriting Influence History Performance Production
  1. Bobby Hebb's song 'Sunny' became a huge hit in 1966 and has been covered by over 500 artists. Its unique sound influenced many songs across different genres.
  2. The inspiration for 'Sunny' came to Bobby after a personal tragedy and seeing a beautiful sunrise, showing how powerful creativity can arise from tough times.
  3. Bobby's career was deeply influenced by his musical family and key figures in music, highlighting the importance of support and mentorship in achieving success.

Welcome to Rock 'n' Roll with Me

179 implied HN points • 15 Apr 24
🎶 Music Rock History Culture Genres Artists
  1. The goal is to celebrate and preserve classic rock music from the 60s and 70s, since it often gets overlooked on radio today.
  2. Ellen wants to share songs that make her and others want to dance, and she will focus mainly on rock but might include other genres too.
  3. She encourages comments and song requests, making it a fun community space for music lovers, while keeping copyright rules in mind.

The feel-good hits from the musical "Hair"

139 implied HN points • 25 Apr 24
🎶 Music Rock Pop History Culture
  1. The musical 'Hair' highlights the energy and spirit of the 1960s counterculture, capturing the protests and hopes of young people at that time.
  2. Its songs, including classics like 'Aquarius' and 'Good Morning Starshine', became big hits and were performed by popular artists, showing the musical's wide appeal.
  3. 'Hair' also sparked conversations about societal issues, like nudity and censorship, reflecting its message against the norms of the establishment.

The best slow dance song ever - a 1970s classic

119 implied HN points • 04 May 24
🎶 Music Rock Dance Etiquette Pop culture
  1. Slow dancing is all about the right approach and technique. Pay attention to how you start, hold your partner, and move together to create a smooth experience.
  2. The best slow dance song needs to have a good tempo and lyrics that set a romantic mood. The right song can help you make a connection with your partner.
  3. Using pop culture references, like scenes from shows, can make learning how to dance more relatable and fun. It helps to know the dos and don'ts to impress when it's time to hit the dance floor.