TUNES: Uncovered

This episode is all about the everyman and the eclectic. From songs about life on the road to songs with a medieval angle these two albums were big hits in 1976. Bob Seger's Live Bullet and Kansas' Leftoverture were in constant rotation on FM radio. Live Bullet had a large number of songs touching R&B, soul, country and more. Leftoverture started with one of the best acapella openings in rock history.

We mentioned the question of whether Bob Seger was in the R&R Hall of Fame and we are pleased to report is he! Inducted in 2004, Bob certainly deserved the accolades.

(and yes, that's Mark's phone ringing halfway through, such a rookie move)

In the first of a multi-episode stretch this episode is all about the albums released in the very prolific year of 1976. The first of four albums we chose are:

Peter Frampton - Frampton Comes Alive

Boston - Boston (debut album)

It was very difficult to narrow down to just 4 albums for a year that saw some of the most successful albums released. We start with one of Mark's favorite all-time albums, Peter Frampton's release Frampton Comes Alive. The best selling album for 1976 it still sells thousands of albums each year.

Next comes Carey's entry, Boston's debut album Boston. Chock full of radio ready singles and for the time mind blowing guitar work. Tom Scholz's work on this album was a high water mark for guitar oriented music in the late 70's.

The British Invasion didn't stop with the Beatles and the Rolling Stones. Bush hit the scene in 1994 with Sixteen Stone, their debut album which spawned Comedown and Glycerine which had good airplay. Little Things was also on the album but enjoyed less exposure but is nonetheless worthy of a listen. Led by Gavin Rossdale, the band enjoyed their heyday until around 2000 and then split up. They reunited later that same decade and are still going strong. Listen as Carey and Mark talk through the song and how songs are released these days.

Not every artist has a Silk Degrees in their discography but Boz Scaggs most successful album was one of the top albums of 1976. With 4 amazing singles including this one, Georgia, the album stayed on the charts for more than 2 years. His studio musicians were the cream of the crop and their talent shows up in each and every song.

Rumors was obviously the biggest Fleetwood Mac album, but there were other good albums and songs in their catalog. Their 1973 release Mystery To Me had one of those songs, Hypnotized. The title was an apt description of the tune as a hypnotizing feeling is what the song emotes. Bob Welch also released this on his solo album after leaving the Mac and it was well received there as well. Let's travel back to the early 70's for this uncovered tune.

Austin Texas has turned out some amazing talent over the years. This episode's uncovered tune is from one of those bands. Storyville was formed in 1993 and their second album gives us this catchy tune, Good Day For The Blues. And as a special treat we have a guest joinging us for this one. We welcome John "Johnny Wishbones" Burrell to the show as we talk about one of the 90's most underrated bands. Spoiler Alert: he can sing too!

In our 4th in a series of songs from past one hit wonders this episode introduces us to Rickie Lee Jones and another track from her debut album. Last Chance Texaco is Rickie Lee's story of a girl in need of a tune-up. Using thinly veiled references to garages and cars, she tells a compelling story. If you remember Chuck E.'s in Love, this was farther down the track list but a good tune nonetheless. Take a listen and let us know what you think.

Looking for an encouraging word, a positive thought? Sister Hazel's Change Your Mind fits that bill. From Gainesville Florida this five man band has released 11 albums of which Fortress was their 3rd. The song was written as a plea to 'change your mind' if you were going through a hardship and focus on the positive. This one was a fun one to record, remembering other one-hit wonders has us both laughing.

If you think Play That Funky Music was Wild Cherry's biggest hit, you would be right. But they also had other songs that are worth your time to search out. We've done that for you with their much slower song Hold On. Written by lead singer and guitarist Robert Parissi Hold On was an ode to blue eyed soul, and man did they do it justice. Take a listen and let us know what you think.

Jessie's Girl was a huge hit for Mr. Springfield but he is so much more than bubble gum pop. This song isn't what some people would equate with Rick but is much closer to what his actual discography contains. The movie was a fairly close representation of touring and the soundtrack was very well done. Love Somebody dot some airplay and charted, but not as high and long lasting as Jessie's Girl. Take a listen and let us know what you think.

Foreigner ruled the airwaves with their first album, songs like Feels Like The First Time and Cold as Ice were everywhere. This episode's uncovered tune is a lesser known gem. Fool For You Anyway didn't get airplay like the singles but shows a different side of the band. A stripped down song with layered background vocals makes for a smooth late 70's song we like to revisit often. Take a listen.

Take a listen to this episode originally published December 14, 2024.

Rarely will you get such musicianship coupled with strong lyrics, great production, and great live performances like you will with this episode's band, Giant. Formed by Dann and David Huff, Giant was a powerhouse band. Dann's playing and production talents have graced the albums of many a hit artist. When you get a chance, listen to this entire album, you will not be disappointed.

Sometimes a tune needs to be talked about again. This is one of those songs. Take a listen to this episode originally published July 13, 2024.

Just a few hours down I-40 there once was a band that had catchy songs and great production but you probably haven't heard of them. The Silver Seas released five albums and today's episode revolves around their 3rd release, Chateau Revenge and it's track What's The Drawback? If you hear a little ELO, you're not alone. Although not currently together The Silver Seas had a solid catalog of music which stands up today.

If you ever saw Human Radio live, you were truly one of the lucky ones. Clever and intelligent lyrics, catchy melodies, masterful musicianship and a live show not to be missed. Me & Elvis was their hit but this song will get you moving. Featuring Steve Arnold on bass, this is a tour de force of a tight groove with all the hallmarks of a song that stays with you long after you've heard it. Do yourself a favor and listen to the entire album.

Rod Stewart was all over the radio with Maggie May, Hot Legs, and many more hits from the 70's all the way through the 2000's. This episode's uncovered tune is I Was Only Joking was off Rod's 1977 album Foot Loose and Fancy Free. His voice is instantly recognizable and it's easy to place yourself back to the time when the song was on the radio. Storytelling was a strength of Mr. Stewart's and this one is no different. Take a listen and if you still have the vinyl put it on the turntable and listen to the who album, you will not be disappointed.

This Canadian band started strong, had another solid album and then promptly broke up. It took them another 24 years before their third album. This episode's uncovered tune Out of The Blue is off their second album Luminescence. Some might call it yacht rock but we call it one of the best tunes we're heard lately. An uplifting message, tight vocals and great production make for a must listen song.

If you were asked what was the biggest selling single to come out of Australia, this episode's song would probably have not been your answer. Split Enz was at the top of their game in 1980 and their album True Colours gave us I Got You, a catchy tune with an amazing number of airplays and sales. Grab your leg warmers and hair gel and take a listen to this 80's classic.

You couldn't get away from this band in 1980 and years following. REO's Hi Fidelity released in 1980 spurned many many hits. Twenty-seven years later this song was the title track of their album Find Your Own Way Home. The album didn't have much fanfare when it was released but it was full of catchy tunes. This one is no different. Take a listen to this uncovered tune and then check out the whole album.

Lennon/McCartney, John/Taupin, Jagger/Richard, Difford/Tilbrook? Touted as two of the best UK songwriters Squeeze had them both. This episode's uncovered tune is their 1980 release Pulling Mussels from the Shell. Their videos were in heavy rotation in the early days of MTV and their sound is infectious. Listen as Carey & Mark talk about this blast from the 80's.

What do you do when you leave a successful band like Foreigner? You start another tight band with amazing vocals and catchy hooks. Spys only had 2 albums and they were both wonderfully crafted with great songwriting. If you like early 80's pop-rock you'll love this song.

And it's our 100th episode! Here's to 100 more!

The Beatles were not afraid to experiment, in the studio, or with psychedelics. From backward tapes to hanging band members upside down, Tomorrow Never Knows was a ground breaking song. Released as the last song on Revolver it ended the era that included their early years, and ushered in their SGT Pepper, The White album, and other later works. There is also an unusual musical oddity in the song as well. Enjoy!

53 years after The Beatles called it quits as a band, this episode's song was released to wide acclaim. Now and Then had to wait until the technology caught up with the needs to make this a reality. So many things had to happen to make this release come to light. Listen for a unique and sweet Memphis connection.

The second of our 4-pack of Beatles songs. Glass Onion referenced other Beatles tunes and was John Lennon's musical answer to all of the crazy theories and rumors surrounding their music. This song may need several listens to hear and understand all of the references and innuendo.

Our first of four Tunes: Uncovered episodes spotlighting the Beatles. Dear Prudence, released in 1968 on the White album isn't in heavy rotation on most radio stations but an interesting song nonetheless. Written at a retreat in India to coax Prudence Farrow from her chalet/hut, Lennon & McCartney do it again. Listen as we discuss how this uncovered tune was written and released on one of the most popular albums of all time.

Two unlikely artists came together to release music that stands the test of time, and won some impressive awards. Sam Brooker and Ruby Amanfu were based in Nashville but their music was born by way of Wisconsin and Ghana, West Africa. Their voices blended so well they had to make music, and 2 EPs and one LP later they were done. Check out this soulful song off of their 2009 album The Here And The Now.

38 Special was the quintessential southern rock band with pedigree to match. Originally fronted by Donnie Van Zant (Ronnie's brother) they hit the scene in the late 70's but it was their 1984 release Wild Eyed Southern Boys that made them a household name. The same year they released the title track to the Teachers soundtrack. A catcchy guitar oriented song it rose up the charts, and their fate as a successful band was sealed.

If you like what has recently been referred to as "yacht rock", you are going to love this song and artist. Young Gun Silver Fox is comprised of Andy Platts (Young Gun) and Shaun Lee (Silver Fox) but the sum of the parts is much bigger than just two artists. Their late 70's polished soft rock/R&B/soul sound is a rarity in today's charts. The first single off their fifth album Pleasure, titled Stevie & Sly, is an homage to a simplier time with great music, cars, and fashion.

Starting with the early 60's the Beach Boys ruled the airwaves with their surfer-themed catchy songs. This quiet but powerful song was short but memorable. It meant something to both Carey and I with the picture painted by Brian Wilson's lyrics and the wonderful arrangement. Brian passed away in June of 2025 and will be missed for what he brought to pop music.

What do you get when you cross a British band with reggae? 10cc's Dreadlock Holiday. A truly Jamaican inspired tune from the same band that brought you I'm Not In Love and The Things We Do For Love, this was a different cut for the group. The melody and tune do not necessarily go hand in hand with the lyrics. Heard on heavy rotation on many Yacht Rock radio stations this one will have you longing for a beach.

This song qualifies as the longest time between listens for us both. Moving Picture's "What About Me" was released in the early 80's and had decent airplay on FM and AOR rock stations. And then it fell off a radio cliff. Both Carey and I listen to a good amount of radio, whether terrestrial or satellite, and I can't remember hearing it in the last 35 years. I think the band name is very appropriate for this song as it definitely paints a moving picture.

When does "good friend" turn into Girlfriend? When your bandmates says you should change the name of the song you just wrote. Matthew Sweet's 1991 album of the same name made it to number 61 on Paste magazine's list of "The 90 Best Albums of the 1990s". A catchy tune turned into an 18 album career. Listen as Carey & Mark talk about Matthew's career and more.

We won't say you have to have a convertible to listen to this episode's song, but it certainly wouldn't hurt. Y&T hit it out of the park with their 1985 release Summertime Girls. Outstanding guitar work coupled with a catchy chorus makes this one of our favorites to listen to when the weather turns warm and the pool is calling your name.

You may not know the name but you definitely know his work. Whether it's the soundtracks of the National Treasures movies, his hits with Yes, or his solo work, Trevor Rabin is all over my playlists. His work on Yes' 90125 alone would be enough for one person, but he didn't stop there. His solo albums are incredibly well-crafted and a joy to listen to. Go back through his catalog and thank us later.

One half of the famous duo that is Steely Dan, Donald Fagen is a songwriting powerhouse. Releasing some of the most ambitious music peppered with jazz, rock, R&B, and classic rock sounds. His 1982 album The Nightfly is no exception. An all-star lineup of musicians and well crafted songs makes for an enjoyable and eclectic release. Hard to believe this album is 43 years old.

FM is a long standing UK band with over 25 albums and a history of solid musicianship. Formed in 1984 these guys have consistently released quality music across the pond. As we'll talk about on this episode, it's due to Spotify's algorithms that we stumbled upon this amazing band, as airplay in America has been few and far between. Take a listen to this entire album and check out the website for additional videos and more!

If you're looking for a global hit, this show is for you. Alice Merton's No Roots didn't get much terrestrial radio play here in the states but was a big hit overseas. It was also a big player in the streaming world as well. Closing in on 400 million streams, this one has been heard around the world. A catchy tune with a sparse production it's one that you'll want to add to a playlist near you.

In the early 80's these two guys were hitting on all cylinders. Neal Schon's band Journey had just released Escape in July of 1981 and Jan Hammer was playing with the likes of Joni Mitchell, Santana, and Stanley Clarke. Together they recorded a not to be missed couple of albums and this episode's song is off of their 1982 album Here To Stay. A driving beat and Schon's surprisingly good vocals makes this track one to dust off and put into rotation.

You've heard Mr. Jonas on your radio stations (are those still a thing?) and have probably seen him and his brothers on TV. His 2017 release Find You was a single with no corresponding album but still did pretty well in the streaming world. Listen to the episode to hear just how well. A catchy tune we're sure you'll enjoy.

We think 2024 was a great year to relive old memories and discover new songs. Carey and I have enjoyed bringing our listeners music from both new artists and long standing entertainers. From two different spotlights on Memphis Artists to bands you definitely missed the first time around, we hope you heard something new, was reminded of something old, and had an amazing year. Here's to a wonderful 2025! Happy New Year!

Rarely will you get such musicianship coupled with strong lyrics, great production, and great live performances like you will with this episode's band, Giant. Formed by Dann and David Huff, Giant was a powerhouse band. Dann's playing and production talents have graced the albums of many a hit artist. When you get a chance, listen to this entire album, you will not be disappointed.

Billy Joel's 52nd Street, released in 1978, was chock full of great songs. This episode's uncovered tune is Zanzibar and it's a great one. Not necessarily a song that sounds like his others but one that paints a great picture. Starting out as something completely different, the final result is one of his best.

Back in the late 70's and early 80's there were plenty of great albums released. This episode is about one of those albums and an equally great song. During a hiatus from Kansas, Steve Walsh put together another band, called them Streets, and released two very good albums. If Love Should Go is off the debut album titled Streets. It's one of our favorite songs and we think you'll enjoy it as well.

Lasting almost twice as long as the actual Civil War, THE Civil Wars was made up of two gifted singer/songwriters who released several albums, EPs and won four Grammys. Not bad for eight years work. Barton Hollow is off their 2011 album of the same name. Did I mention four Grammys? A true uncovered tune in this early release in their catalog, one we hope you enjoy!

As we have mentioned before, the mid to late 80's were a wonderful time to be in Memphis. The local music scene was as large as it ever was, and this episode's artist was a big part of that. Rob Jungklas' Memphis Thing was all over the radio waves. Also on his 1986 Closer to the Flame album was Make It Mean Something. Lyrically, musically and everything in between made this song a favorite of ours.

If you've been waiting for a classic R&B song, the wait is over. Off of Al Green's 1972 album I'm Still In Love With You comes this tour deforce, Love and Happiness. Released first in the UK and later (5 years later!) in the US, this song is listed on many a top songs lists of the 70's and of all time. this song has it all including a soulful vocal, tight background singers and a solid arrangement. Take a listen as we talk about the Reverend Al Green!

The 80's were an amazing time for music in Memphis. Spawning out of The Breaks, Suzanne Jerome Taylor and Pat Taylor created their next band, Drama. Although the band was short-lived, with only one album released, the music was very well done. Suzanne's silky voice and Pat's tasteful guitar put together a solid set of songs. Why Did Forever Have to End is just one of those tunes. Take a listen as Carey and Mark discuss this and more Memphis music in this 2nd of 4 Memphis Artists series episodes.

In our first of four shows dedicated to Memphis artists, we have one by Drew Holcomb. He and his band formed in 2005 and have put out some of the best "Americana" music of the past few decades. While this song may not be his typical music style, it's a great song. And you can't go wrong with a song that has a horn section. All The Money in the World is off of Drew's 2023 release Strangers No More and one we think you'll love!

If you watched more than 30 minutes of MTV back in the 80's you are familiar with Patty Smyth. The cute and bubbly lead singer of Scandal looked tougher than the Go Go's girls and sweeter than Joan Jett, but boy could she sing. After Scandal disbanded she set out on a solo career that saw her hit the charts with The Warrior and Sometimes Love Just Ain't Enough with Don Henley. This uncovered tune is one of her rockers and we're sure you will enjoy the tune!