Introduction:
Denny Somach’s Episode 31 serves as a reminder of just how vast and influential the rock landscape is. From pioneering hard rock to radio anthems and soulful ballads, this episode brings together legends whose music continues to resonate across generations.
Mellencamp, Clapton & Van Halen:
We begin with John Mellencamp’s I Need a Lover, originally from his 1978 debut when he was still performing as Johnny Cougar. Eric Clapton’s Forever Man, released in 1985, showcases his ability to balance blues roots with pop accessibility. Van Halen energizes the set with their fiery rendition of You Really Got Me, proving how the band could take a cover and make it entirely their own.
The Rolling Stones & AC/DC:
The Stones’ Lady Jane from Aftermath demonstrates their growing confidence as songwriters, with Brian Jones introducing the sitar. AC/DC’s Back in Black, the title track of their historic 1980 album, represents one of the highest-selling records in rock history, solidifying their position as masters of arena rock.
Greg Kihn Band, Tom Petty & Molly Hatchet:
The Greg Kihn Band contributes The Breakup Song from their 1981 release, blending power pop with catchy hooks. Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers deliver Refugee, one of his most iconic tracks, while Molly Hatchet’s southern rock anthem Flirtin’ with Disaster keeps the energy alive with twin-guitar fury.
Led Zeppelin, Bob Dylan & Uriah Heep:
Robert Plant recalls his hope that All of My Love, one of the few Zeppelin songs Jimmy Page didn’t co-write, would be remembered alongside Stairway to Heaven. Bob Dylan’s I Want You from Blonde on Blonde injects poetic intimacy, while Uriah Heep’s The Wizard underscores why they belong among the defining British hard rock bands alongside Zeppelin, Sabbath, and Deep Purple.
Heart & Bad English:
The Wilson sisters deliver Straight On from Dog & Butterfly, highlighting Heart’s ability to fuse folk, hard rock, and balladry into one unique sound. Closing the episode is Bad English’s chart-topping When I See You Smile, showing how even short-lived bands could leave a lasting mark with one perfect song.
final note
Episode 31 is a journey across decades and styles, connecting the British invasion, American rock resilience, and the power ballads of the late ‘80s. Denny Somach once again proves that rock is not just music, but a living legacy.
Playlist
I Need a Lover – John Mellencamp (5:30)
Forever Man – Eric Clapton (3:30)
You Really Got Me – Van Halen (2:38)
Lady Jane – The Rolling Stones (3:06)
Break On Through – The Doors (2:26)
Back In Black – AC/DC (4:12)
The Breakup Song – The Greg Kihn Band (2:56)
Refugee – Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers (3:25)
Flirtin’ with Disaster – Molly Hatchet (4:56)
All of My Love – Led Zeppelin (5:55)
The Wizard – Uriah Heep (2:59)
I Want You – Bob Dylan (3:08)
Straight On – Heart (5:01)
When I See You Smile – Bad English (4:17)
