Rock and Roll for GrownUps
Episode 45
Rock and Roll for Grownups with Denny Somach – Episode 45
Episode 45 of Rock and Roll for Grownups offers a masterful mix of legendary tracks and captivating stories from the artists who shaped rock history. Denny Somach, one of rock’s most respected historians, guides listeners through a journey that begins with What Is Life by George Harrison, Feel Like Makin’ Love by Bad Company, and I’m No Angel by Gregg Allman. Each song connects to a deeper story—from Harrison’s Abbey Road origins to Gregg Allman’s 1987 comeback.
The show then explores the diversity of rock’s golden years with U2, Nicolette Larson, Van Halen, and The Hollies. Denny shares the story of how Graham Nash’s Marrakesh Express was nearly shelved before finding new life with Crosby, Stills & Nash, and how The Hollies’ longevity continues to inspire generations. From Canadian rock powerhouse Tom Cochrane to Slade, Lou Gramm, and Peter Gabriel, Episode 45 celebrates the enduring creativity and character of rock’s most dynamic era.
Solo Greatness and Rock Revival
The episode begins with What Is Life by George Harrison, a joyful and uplifting song originally written for Abbey Road but ultimately recorded for his solo masterpiece All Things Must Pass in 1970. The track showcases Harrison’s blend of spiritual warmth and pop brilliance. Next comes Feel Like Makin’ Love by Bad Company, a defining anthem of 1970s arena rock, followed by Gregg Allman’s I’m No Angel, the title track of his 1987 solo album. Allman’s song marked a powerful return for one of rock’s most soulful voices.
From Dublin to California
Denny moves into the next set with I Will Follow by U2, the first track on their debut album Boy. It remains the only song the band has performed on every tour since their beginnings. Lotta Love by Nicolette Larson follows, a tender and melodic Neil Young composition that became Larson’s biggest hit. The connection continues with Dance the Night Away by Van Halen, produced by Ted Templeman—the same producer who worked on Larson’s album. This segment highlights how rock music’s family tree often intertwines in unexpected ways.
The Hollies, Graham Nash, and The Birth of “Marrakesh Express”
In a fascinating storytelling moment, Denny recounts the early days of The Hollies. Founders Graham Nash and Alan Clarke struggled to find a name for the group before settling on one that would become synonymous with the British Invasion. Denny includes a brief clip from Alan Clarke discussing the band’s origin. Long Cool Woman (In a Black Dress) exemplifies their sleek blend of pop and rock, while Marrakesh Express by Crosby, Stills & Nash tells the story of Nash’s artistic rebirth after leaving The Hollies. The set concludes with Up on Cripple Creek by The Band, featuring drummer Levon Helm on vocals—a timeless piece of Americana that captures the storytelling heart of classic rock.
Canadian Rock and Global Hits
The show then crosses into Canada with Lunatic Fringe by Tom Cochrane and Red Rider, a haunting, politically charged song that remains a staple of classic rock radio. The tempo shifts with Doo Doo Doo (Heartbreaker) by The Rolling Stones, a track that balances funk and grit with social commentary. Slade’s Run Runaway follows, a 1984 hit that brought the glam rock pioneers renewed success in the MTV era. Though best known for writing Cum On Feel the Noize, which became a hit for Quiet Riot, Slade proved with this song that they could evolve with the times.
Closing Set: From Foreigner to Gabriel
The final block of Episode 45 highlights artists who defined their respective eras while reinventing themselves. Midnight Blue by Lou Gramm, released in 1987, marked a successful solo effort from the Foreigner frontman and became one of the decade’s most recognizable hits. The episode closes with In Your Eyes by Peter Gabriel, a soulful anthem from his acclaimed album So. The song, immortalized in film and remembered for its emotional depth, captures the perfect ending note for another memorable journey through the stories and sounds of rock.
Tunes
George Harrison – What Is Life – 4:20
Bad Company – Feel Like Makin’ Love – 5:12
Gregg Allman – I’m No Angel – 3:42
U2 – I Will Follow – 3:37
Nicolette Larson – Lotta Love – 4:14
Van Halen – Dance the Night Away – 3:07
The Hollies – Long Cool Woman (In a Black Dress) – 3:15
Crosby, Stills & Nash – Marrakesh Express – 2:38
The Band – Up on Cripple Creek – 4:34
Tom Cochrane and Red Rider – Lunatic Fringe – 4:23
The Rolling Stones – Doo Doo Doo (Heartbreaker) – 3:28
Slade – Run Runaway – 5:00
Lou Gramm – Midnight Blue – 3:54
Peter Gabriel – In Your Eyes – 5:23
