EP.7 Rock and Roll for GrownUps

Episode 7: The Rock You Grew Up With

Introduction

Welcome to Episode 7 of Rock’n’Roll for Grownups, hosted by the incomparable Denny Somach. This show is dedicated to bringing back the rock music that defined a generation—the songs you loved and perhaps thought had vanished from the airwaves. But fear not, Denny has it all here, along with stories from the artists themselves that you won’t hear anywhere else. Produced by Denny Somach and Zach Martin, this episode is packed with classic tracks, fascinating artist insights, and a few surprises along the way.

Rocking Beginnings

The episode opens with a bang as Denny takes us through a set of powerful rock tracks, starting with I’d Love to Change the World by Ten Years After. This song, with its powerful message and iconic guitar riffs, sets the tone for the episode. Next up is Fresh Air by Quicksilver Messenger Service, a track that captures the spirit of the late 60s with its psychedelic vibe. The set concludes with a shift in gears as we hear Ringo Starr’s It Don’t Come Easy, a song that showcases Starr’s unique style and his contribution to the Beatles’ legacy.

The Apple Connection

Denny then shares an interesting piece of rock history—when the Beatles formed their own record label, Apple, one of the first bands they signed was Badfinger. Their music has been covered by a range of artists, from Harry Nilsson to Mariah Carey. We hear Day After Day by Badfinger, followed by People Got to Be Free by The Rascals, a track that resonates with the social changes of the time and still feels relevant today.

Dance the Night Away

The mood shifts to the dance floor with a trio of tracks designed to get you moving. Van Halen’s Dance the Night Away kicks things off with its upbeat, infectious energy. Next is David Bowie’s Let’s Dance, featuring the incredible guitar work of Stevie Ray Vaughan on his 1964 Fender. The set rounds off with Blondie’s Heart of Glass, a track that blends rock and disco in a way that only Blondie could pull off.

Johnny Winter and the Art of the Cover

Denny shares a personal story about working with the legendary guitarist Johnny Winter, one of the first blues-rock guitar virtuosos. Winter was known for his extraordinary cover versions of classic songs, and Denny introduces Winter’s take on Bob Dylan’s Highway 61. Winter’s rendition is followed by Rick Derringer’s Rock and Roll Hoochie Koo, a song that Derringer originally recorded with Winter’s band before making it a solo hit. Denny provides insight into the collaboration between Winter and Derringer, adding depth to these classic tracks.

Closing with a Classic

As the episode draws to a close, Denny reflects on a recent concert experience where he saw Yes, a band that continues to amaze audiences even after decades of performing. The episode concludes with I’ve Seen All Good People by Yes, a song that encapsulates the spirit of progressive rock and leaves listeners on a high note.

Denny Somach wraps up Episode 7 by reminding listeners that Rock’n’Roll for Grownups is all about keeping the music alive—the songs that shaped our lives and continue to inspire. Whether it’s through stories, interviews, or simply playing the tracks that defined an era, this show is a celebration of the enduring power of rock and roll.