The hottest Music history Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top Music Topics

Brian Wilson Is My Brick

The Honest Broker • 26397 implied HN points • 12 Jun 25
🎶 Music Music history Songwriting Cultural impact Personal narrative
  1. Having a special object, like a brick from school, can remind us of our roots and where we come from. It's important to cherish those memories as they shape who we are.
  2. Being different or feeling like an outsider can be tough, especially in youth, but it can also be a strength later in life. Embracing that uniqueness can lead to personal growth and success.
  3. Music can express feelings that are hard to put into words. Artists like Brian Wilson show us that being open about our struggles can connect us with others who feel the same way.

My favourite works and recordings of J.S. Bach

The Common Reader • 3118 implied HN points • 01 Jun 25
🎶 Music Classical Performances Composers Music history
  1. Listening to Bach can be a lifelong journey, starting from childhood experiences like watching a movie. Many people find their love for his music grows as they discover new recordings and performances over time.
  2. Different artists bring unique interpretations to Bach's works. Some recordings, like Glenn Gould's, are especially cherished for their emotional depth and creativity.
  3. Bach's music is diverse and includes many forms, from orchestral pieces to solo works. Exploring various recordings can lead to discovering favorites and enjoying his music in new ways.

Brian Wilson didn't even surf

The Rubesletter by Matt Ruby (of Vooza) | Sent every Tuesday • 499 implied HN points • 17 Jun 25
🎶 Music Pop Rock Cultural impact Music history Songwriting
  1. Brian Wilson, despite not surfing, captured the essence of surfing in his music. His songs are about fun and carefree moments but also touch on deeper feelings.
  2. The Beach Boys combined catchy pop tunes with complex music, making their songs enjoyable for both kids and music lovers. Their harmonies are especially special because they were family members who had a unique bond.
  3. Brian's songwriting and music arrangements were genius-level. He created music that evokes hope and nostalgia, making listeners feel like everything will be okay.

John Coltrane's Love Is Still Supreme at Age 60

The Honest Broker • 20113 implied HN points • 07 Feb 25
🎶 Music Jazz Albums Artists Music history Influence
  1. John Coltrane was incredibly busy in 1964, recording a lot of music and practicing hard. He often practiced so much that fans would overhear him in unusual places, showing his deep commitment to music.
  2. Coltrane's album 'A Love Supreme' was more than just music; it was a gift to God and a spiritual journey for him. The album's liner notes expressed his devotion, which was quite rare in jazz at the time.
  3. Even decades after its release, 'A Love Supreme' remains influential in jazz music. Many modern musicians still draw inspiration from Coltrane's style, showing that his music continues to resonate with new generations.

What Can Music Do Today?

The Honest Broker • 12101 implied HN points • 28 Jan 25
🎶 Music Music history Music culture
  1. Music still holds a powerful role in our lives, influencing healing and emotional well-being. Recent studies show that sounds can even help revive people from comas.
  2. Many modern music events have a ritualistic feel, much like ancient practices. People seek transformative experiences through music, whether at a major festival or a local concert.
  3. The music industry often overlooks the deeper, transformative potential of music. Instead of creating meaningful connections, it tends to focus on short, entertaining tracks that don’t satisfy our deeper needs.
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’Fast Car‘

Steady • 23998 implied HN points • 11 Feb 24
🎶 Music Music history Music Performance
  1. Tracy Chapman's performance of 'Fast Car' with Luke Combs at the Grammys was a standout and resonated with many fans both old and new.
  2. Chapman's iconic performance of 'Fast Car' at the 1988 Nelson Mandela tribute concert propelled her to new heights, earning her three Grammys.
  3. The song 'Fast Car' continues to have a lasting impact, with Luke Combs' cover reaching number one on the country charts and introducing the song to a new generation of fans.

16 YouTube Videos I'm Watching This Week

The Honest Broker • 6848 implied HN points • 26 Jan 25
🎶 Music Genres Artists Music videos Performances Music history
  1. There are many interesting YouTube videos available this week, covering a wide range of topics. You might find something that really catches your interest.
  2. Some artists are pushing boundaries, like a young pianist who composes chamber music or a K-Pop group that performs live without auto-tune. It's great to see talent showcased in different ways.
  3. The blend of old styles with modern songs is intriguing, like rock songs performed in a swing jazz style. It's a fun way to explore how music can change across genres.

In praise of David Ackles

Soaring Twenties • 92 implied HN points • 17 Feb 25
🎶 Music Songwriting Cultural impact Music history Personal Reflection
  1. It's good to seek out recommendations from friends instead of relying on algorithms. Friends can introduce you to music and films that you might not find on your own.
  2. Songs can tell powerful stories and change how we see people, like seeing an ex-convict as a human. These stories can influence our empathy and understanding of others.
  3. David Ackles was a talented songwriter who created deep and meaningful songs but never found commercial success. His work inspired many other artists even if he wasn't widely known.

My 10 Favorite Paul McCartney Post-Beatles Musical Moments

The Honest Broker • 7014 implied HN points • 29 Oct 24
🎶 Music Artists Albums Genres Live Performances Music history
  1. Paul McCartney had a successful solo career after the Beatles, showcasing his incredible talent beyond the famous band. His post-Beatles work is impressive enough to secure his legendary status.
  2. A touching moment from McCartney's 2022 performance featured him singing with a video of John Lennon, highlighting their deep connection even years after the band's breakup. This moment resonated with many fans, evoking strong emotions.
  3. In a lesser-known performance, McCartney played with an Afrobeat band from Malawi, demonstrating his versatility as a bassist. It's surprising that this performance didn't get more attention, as it showcases his unique style.

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

Rock 'n' Roll with Me • 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.

The Prehistory of Music

Dada Drummer Almanach • 52 implied HN points • 06 Feb 25
🎶 Music Music history Anthropology Cultural Theory Evolutionary Theory
  1. Music has deep roots in human history, showing how important it has been in shaping cultures. It connects us to our past and influences how we live today.
  2. The study of music isn't just about its notes and rhythms; it's also about understanding its role in society and culture. Music can help create and define the world around us.
  3. Exploring how humans developed musical abilities can lead to insights about our evolution and what makes us unique as a species. It's fascinating to think about why we can engage with music in such powerful ways.

How I Stopped Hating Steely Dan

The Honest Broker • 21177 implied HN points • 26 Jun 23
🎶 Music Music history Music Analysis Music Industry
  1. The author's initial resistance to Steely Dan changed as they discovered the band's depth and artistry.
  2. Steely Dan's music challenged pop banality and conventionality, offering a unique and edgy perspective.
  3. The fusion of jazz elements in Steely Dan's art pop style inspired the author to appreciate skilled studio musicians and rethink elitist attitudes in music.

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

Rock 'n' Roll with Me • 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.

In Search of Dupree Bolton

The Honest Broker • 8245 implied HN points • 05 Feb 24
🎶 Music Jazz Musician Music history Music Industry
  1. Dupree Bolton was a mysterious and talented jazz trumpeter who emerged suddenly on the West Coast jazz scene in the 1950s, made recordings marked by his unique style, but then disappeared abruptly.
  2. Despite his brief career, Dupree Bolton left a lasting impact with his remarkable trumpet playing on records like 'The Fox' and 'Katanga!' alongside saxophonist Curtis Amy.
  3. Researcher Ted Gioia tracked down Dupree Bolton years later in San Francisco, where the musician was playing on the streets, revealing a complex and troubled life story that included struggles with drugs and internal conflict.

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

Rock 'n' Roll with Me • 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.

"Chain of Fools" by Aretha Franklin (1967)

Rock 'n' Roll with Me • 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

Rock 'n' Roll with Me • 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.

Black-market Bob

Dada Drummer Almanach • 101 implied HN points • 10 Jan 25
🎶 Music Artists Albums Live Performances Music history
  1. Bob Dylan's bootlegs provide a deeper look into his music that fans enjoy. These recordings include live performances and outtakes that show his artistic evolution.
  2. The 1965-1975 period is a favorite for many Dylan fans, showcasing his unique style as he transitioned from folk to rock music. Key recordings from this time have become legendary.
  3. Despite recent Grammy wins, some feel Dylan's latest work lacks the powerful imagery and creativity of his earlier albums. Fans often discuss his cycles of ups and downs in music careers.

Nice Opening, Duchamp

Dada Drummer Almanach • 149 implied HN points • 28 Dec 24
🎶 Music Bands Albums Genres Music history Music Reviews
  1. Damon & Naomi are a music duo that formed after their previous band, Galaxie 500, ended. Their new music blends American and Japanese styles.
  2. Ghost is a Japanese band known for its psychedelic sound and creativity, and they collaborated with Damon & Naomi on an album.
  3. The writing and music process for the collaboration was detailed and unique, with strict schedules and a focus on artistic expression.

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

Rock 'n' Roll with Me • 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.

Carole King: The Creator Series #2

Rock 'n' Roll with Me • 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

Rock 'n' Roll with Me • 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

Rock 'n' Roll with Me • 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.

The Common Listener

Dada Drummer Almanach • 120 implied HN points • 16 Dec 24
🎶 Music Music journalism Artist analysis Cultural Commentary Music history
  1. Music recommendations can be a fun way to explore new sounds. They don't have to follow a strict 'best of' list; just enjoy what you like.
  2. Listening to music should be for your own enjoyment, not just what critics or charts say is popular. Everyone has different tastes.
  3. You can connect music to your personal experiences and moments in life, like what you were cooking or doing at the time.

The Mono vs. Stereo Edition

Why is this interesting? • 784 implied HN points • 07 Nov 24
🎶 Music Music Production Music history Audio engineering Music genres
  1. Mono and stereo mixes can sound very different from each other. Mono mixes might feel more powerful and live, while stereo mixes offer more depth and spatial detail in the music.
  2. Collecting both mono and stereo versions of records can lead to exciting new experiences. Some songs might sound better in mono, while others shine in stereo.
  3. When buying reissues of old records, it's important to check who remastered the album. Quality remastering can significantly enhance how the music sounds.

"I Heard It Through the Grapevine"

Rock 'n' Roll with Me • 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.

Why Taylor Swift, the Beatles, and Nirvana are overrated

The Rubesletter by Matt Ruby (of Vooza) | Sent every Tuesday • 356 implied HN points • 01 Dec 24
🎶 Music Music history Music Criticism Artist analysis Cultural Commentary Live performance
  1. Some popular musicians like Taylor Swift, the Beatles, and Nirvana might not be as great as people think. It's okay to have different opinions about music.
  2. Drummers have a unique way of creating many sounds with just a few basic elements, similar to how Taco Bell mixes its ingredients.
  3. The experience of listening to music has changed over time, especially with DJs taking a more prominent role in performances. Now, people often watch the DJ instead of just dancing with each other.

The Eagle who soared with Steely Dan

Expanding Dan • 727 implied HN points • 07 Jul 23
🎶 Music Interview Music history Collaboration
  1. Timothy B. Schmit was a significant figure in both Steely Dan and Eagles, serving as a bass player and backing vocalist in each.
  2. Schmit made his debut with Steely Dan in 1974 and contributed to hits like 'Rikki Don't Lose That Number'.
  3. There was no vocal contribution from Don Henley or Glenn Frey in the Steely Dan song 'FM (No Static at All)', with Schmit being the sole Eagle member on that track.

Musical interlude

Disaffected Newsletter • 759 implied HN points • 28 Jul 23
🎶 Music Music theory Music history Genres Cultural influence
  1. Songs can have hidden meanings that you might not notice when you're younger. Even if the lyrics sound clean, they might carry deeper, unexpected themes.
  2. Harmonies in music can create strong emotional reactions. Perfect musical intervals can bring joy and even make people feel overcome with emotion.
  3. Music connects us to memories and experiences, like family moments or simple past joys. It can remind us of good times that may seem lost now.

A Playlist for a Blue Valentine

SBJournal • 275 implied HN points • 08 Feb 24
🎶 Music Playlist Love Relationships Emotions Music history
  1. The playlist is inspired by stages of love, from infatuation to contempt, and finally to picking yourself up again.
  2. Each stage is paired with a song that captures the emotions and experiences of that particular phase of a relationship.
  3. The author draws on personal experiences and literary references to create a deeply emotional and relatable playlist for a Blue Valentine.

Ryuichi Sakamoto 1952-2023

S/FJ • 550 implied HN points • 06 Apr 23
🎶 Music Artist profile Music history Legacy
  1. Ryuichi Sakamoto was a remarkable musician who passed away in 2023 after a battle with cancer.
  2. Sakamoto's career was diverse, encompassing piano performances, electronic collaborations, and unconventional music-making methods.
  3. His creative life exemplified spiritual integrity and his music remains influential and timeless.

Behind the curtain of 'The Last Waltz'

Expanding Dan • 373 implied HN points • 01 Dec 23
🎶 Music Music history
  1. Rob Fraboni, producer of 'The Last Waltz', reflects on his experiences and memories from the Band's farewell concert.
  2. The Last Waltz featured an incredible lineup of music legends including Neil Diamond, Joni Mitchell, Bob Dylan, and more.
  3. Fraboni's emotional connection to the Last Waltz concert showcases the lasting impact of collaborations with musical geniuses.

MacArthur Park — that 7½-minute "cake out in the rain" song that mesmerized us

Rock 'n' Roll with Me • 119 implied HN points • 24 Apr 24
🎶 Music Pop Jazz Songwriting Music history
  1. The song 'MacArthur Park' tells a story about losing true love and the deep emotions connected to that loss. It's a journey of heartache that many can relate to.
  2. There are famous versions of the song by Richard Harris, Donna Summer, and Maynard Ferguson, each bringing a different vibe, from emotional ballad to upbeat disco.
  3. The lyrics are both literal and symbolic, with imagery that represents beauty lost, like a cake left out in the rain, and the songwriter wanted to capture that feeling in both music and words.