Dig deep into the lyrics of classic rock songs and the storytellers that created them in "Behind The Song," a podcast by The Drive's Janda Lane. Hear what was happening behind the scenes while some of the most iconic songs in rock history were being written.
The Behind the Song podcast is a hidden gem that I recently stumbled upon and it has quickly become one of my favorite podcasts to listen to. Hosted by Janda, this podcast takes a deep dive into the lyrics of popular songs and provides insightful analysis that is both thought-provoking and enlightening.
One of the best aspects of The Behind the Song podcast is Janda's analysis of each song's lyrics. Her attention to detail and ability to dissect the meaning behind every line is absolutely splendid. It's evident that she has done thorough research on each song, and her interpretations provide a fresh perspective that may not have been previously considered by listeners. Whether she is uncovering hidden symbolism or offering her take on the writer's possible explanation, Janda does an excellent job at making you think about the lyrics in a different light.
Another great aspect of this podcast is its short format. Each episode is just the perfect length of time to enjoy while doing something less enjoyable, like folding laundry or commuting to work. Janda manages to pack a ton of information into these bite-sized episodes without overwhelming the listener. It's a great way to learn something new and interesting without dedicating too much time.
While there are many positives, there are also some areas for improvement in The Behind the Song podcast. One aspect that could be improved upon is the amount of time spent on playing each song. Currently, only snippets of songs are played during each episode, leaving you wanting more. It would be great if they could play just a little more of each song to really immerse the listener in the music being analyzed.
In conclusion, The Behind the Song podcast is an excellent listen for anyone who enjoys music and wants to gain a deeper understanding of their favorite songs. Janda's thorough research and keen intuition make for an informative and entertaining experience. Whether you're folding laundry or simply looking for something new to listen to, this podcast is definitely worth subscribing to.
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Join Janda on a deep dive into Traffic's “The Low Spark Of High Heeled Boys,” a nearly 12-minute epic song co-written by Steve Winwood and Jim Capaldi that defies any kind of pop logic from the band that has had a lasting impact on progressive rock and beyond. Check out the story in the new episode of the Behind The Song podcast. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
From David Bowie to Zeppelin to Janis Joplin, Janda goes through a list of classic rock songs that opened the door to classic rock and shaped her taste in this genre of music. Check it out in this bonus episode of the Behind The Song podcast!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Listen in on this conversation about classic rock cover songs that might just transcend the original! From Creedence Clearwater Revival's take on “I Heard It Through The Grapevine” to Nirvana's version of “The Man Who Sold The World," check out this chat about covers that really rock in the new bonus episode of the Behind The Song podcast.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Dive in to the new episode of the Behind The Song podcast as Janda explores Bad Company: the supergroup, the song, and the debut album. Find out how the band crafted their authentic sound and their identity to become an essential part of mid-70's hard rock
In the new bonus episode of the Behind The Song podcast, listen in as the conversation continues about notable, memorable classic rock guitar solos. In this fourth installment, Pete Townshend, Mark Knopfler, and Eddie Van Halen are in the spotlight!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Listen in on this conversation about classic rock songs that just feel like summertime! From Mungo Jerry to ELO, warm up with a great list of tunes to put you in a summer state of mind. Check it out on the new bonus episode of the Behind The Song podcast.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
In this episode of the Behind The song podcast, Janda unpacks Nirvana's “Smells Like Teen Spirit,” the song that defined an entire generation. From the enigmatic lyrics to the raw energy that served as an antidote to the excess of the 80's, get into how this song's impact can't be overstated, why it remains timeless and how it revolutionized rock music. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
In this bonus episode of the Behind The Song podcast, listen in as Janda and producer Christian chat about some of this year's Rock and Roll Hall of Fame most deserving honorees, including Warren Zevon, Nicky Hopkins, and Bad Company. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
In the new bonus episode of the Behind The Song podcast, Janda and Christian come back for round three of their chat about classic rock guitar solos. This time around, the conversation centers around Joe Walsh, Mike Campbell and Mick Ronson and three very memorable songs! See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
In this episode of the Behind The Song podcast, Janda dives into “Just What I Needed,” the first hit single released from The Cars' self-titled debut. A song that proves even the catchiest little tunes can actually be very complex, expressing a feeling that's hard to verbalize. And the killer opening riff borrows from a 1960's bubblegum pop hit! Get into it in the new episode of the Behind The Song podcast. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
In the new bonus episode of the Behind The Song podcast, Janda chats with the lead actors in the cast of Sunny Afternoon, based on the music of The Kinks. This jukebox musical first was seen on London's West End, and is premiering in North America in Chicago through April 27, 2025 at the Chicago Shakespeare Theatre. Listen in on the conversation with Danny Horn (Ray Davies) and Oliver Hoare (Dave Davies) about the music of The Kinks and why this must-see production is so special and authentic. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
In the new bonus episode of the Behind The Song podcast, Janda and producer Christian Lane continue the discussion about notable guitar solos in classic rock! Listen in on this chat about two very different guitar players, Brian May of Queen and Jerry Garcia of the Grateful Dead, and why this is an episode that has to have a part three!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
In this episode of the Behind The Song podcast, Janda explores the fascinating backstory behind Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers' hit "Don't Come Around Here No More." Discover how a late-night argument between Stevie Nicks and Joe Walsh inspired the song, co-written by Dave Stewart of the Eurythmics, and take a dive down into the rabbit hole of controversy that its Alice In Wonderland-theme video caused when it was released in 1985. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
In the new bonus episode of the Behind The Song podcast, Janda and producer Christian Lane talk about notable guitar solos in classic rock. Listen in on this conversation about why some of the tastiest guitar solos are so memorable, and why this is an episode that has to have a part two! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
In the new bonus episode of the Behind The Song podcast, Janda and producer Christian Lane talk about notable guitar solos in classic rock. Listen in on this conversation about why some of the tastiest guitar solos are so memorable, and why this is an episode that has to have a part two! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Joe Cocker is nominated for Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction in 2025, and in the latest episode of the Behind The Song podcast, Janda chats with Deric Dyer, Cocker's longtime music director and saxophonist. He shares his insights about Cocker, why he deserves induction, and why Paul McCartney felt compelled to write to the Rock Hall to help make it happen for Cocker this year - the whole reason that Janda and Dyer came together to talk about all this in the first place. Listen in on this great musical conversation! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Joe Cocker is nominated for Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction in 2025, and in the latest episode of the Behind The Song podcast, Janda chats with Deric Dyer, Cocker's longtime music director and saxophonist. He shares his insights about Cocker, why he deserves induction, and why Paul McCartney felt compelled to write to the Rock Hall to help make it happen for Cocker this year - the whole reason that Janda and Dyer came together to talk about all this in the first place. Listen in on this great musical conversation! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
In this episode of the Behind The Song podcast, join Janda as she digs into the unexpected success of Elton John's "Bennie and the Jets." Released in 1973 on the landmark album Goodbye Yellow Brick Road, this quirky tune tells the story of a fictional all-girl band, a response with lyrics written by Bernie Taupin to the glam-rock craze at the time. Discover how a happy accident—a misplaced piano chord—led to a unique “faked-live” sound for the entire recording, and how radio play in Detroit turned a pretty odd song into a chart-topping hit. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
In this episode of the Behind The Song podcast, join Janda as she digs into the unexpected success of Elton John's "Bennie and the Jets." Released in 1973 on the landmark album Goodbye Yellow Brick Road, this quirky tune tells the story of a fictional all-girl band, a response with lyrics written by Bernie Taupin to the glam-rock craze at the time. Discover how a happy accident—a misplaced piano chord—led to a unique “faked-live” sound for the entire recording, and how radio play in Detroit turned a pretty odd song into a chart-topping hit. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
It's a heavy metal homecoming! In this bonus episode of the Behind The Song podcast, Janda and Christian talk about the “Back To The Beginning” Black Sabbath reunion concert taking place this summer in the band's origin city of Birmingham, England. It's a bittersweet event, considering Ozzy Osbourne's health challenges, a goodbye to fans with the OG lineup of Sabbath getting together one last time - along with a packed lineup featuring Metallica, members of Guns ‘N Roses, and many more. Listen in as the Behind The Song podcast team reflect on the unique influences that shaped Black Sabbath in their industrial hometown, and how they in turn used that environment to pioneer the heavy metal sound. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
It's a heavy metal homecoming! In this bonus episode of the Behind The Song podcast, Janda and Christian talk about the “Back To The Beginning” Black Sabbath reunion concert taking place this summer in the band's origin city of Birmingham, England. It's a bittersweet event, considering Ozzy Osbourne's health challenges, a goodbye to fans with the OG lineup of Sabbath getting together one last time - along with a packed lineup featuring Metallica, members of Guns ‘N Roses, and many more. Listen in as the Behind The Song podcast team reflect on the unique influences that shaped Black Sabbath in their industrial hometown, and how they in turn used that environment to pioneer the heavy metal sound. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Becoming Led Zeppelin is not just a documentary; it's a celebration of the famously private band's legacy, carefully told by the band members themselves. Listen in as Janda and Christian talk about why this film is a must-watch in the new bonus episode of the Behind The Song podcast! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Becoming Led Zeppelin is not just a documentary; it's a celebration of the famously private band's legacy, carefully told by the band members themselves. Listen in as Janda and Christian talk about why this film is a must-watch in the new bonus episode of the Behind The Song podcast! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
It took David Bowie until his 4th album to find his footing as an artist. Hunky Dory, released in 1971, is a collection of songs written after he realized that he wasn't really one thing or another when it came to musical styles. Certainly not a folk musician, which is what he was pigeonholed as up to that point. In many ways, this is where rock's greatest chameleon began to evolve. It took his first trip to America to change the way he approached his songwriting, and when he returned home to England after that US tour, he sat down at the piano to give a voice to the musical styles colliding within him. And at just 24 years old, he wrote the song that would foreshadow the rest of his life and career, “Changes.” Get into the story in this episode of the Behind The Song podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
It took David Bowie until his 4th album to find his footing as an artist. Hunky Dory, released in 1971, is a collection of songs written after he realized that he wasn't really one thing or another when it came to musical styles. Certainly not a folk musician, which is what he was pigeonholed as up to that point. In many ways, this is where rock's greatest chameleon began to evolve. It took his first trip to America to change the way he approached his songwriting, and when he returned home to England after that US tour, he sat down at the piano to give a voice to the musical styles colliding within him. And at just 24 years old, he wrote the song that would foreshadow the rest of his life and career, “Changes.” Get into the story in this episode of the Behind The Song podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
This Valentine's Day, the Behind The Song podcast team has a sweet list of songs for you! Join Janda and Christian as they each discuss their five top classic rock love songs, based on two sets of criteria: songs about real people, and how a song makes you feel. Who made their list? Listen and find out! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
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Ever felt lost after a big change? Paul McCartney did after the breakup of the Beatles. In the new episode of the Behind The Song podcast, join Janda to find out how Linda McCartney deserves the credit for helping him turn those struggles into making music again, starting with “Maybe I'm Amazed.” Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Ever felt lost after a big change? Paul McCartney did after the breakup of the Beatles. In the new episode of the Behind The Song podcast, join Janda to find out how Linda McCartney deserves the credit for helping him turn those struggles into making music again, starting with “Maybe I'm Amazed.” Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Get into the interplay between classic rock songs and iconic movie scenes in this bonus episode of the Behind The Song podcast. Join Janda and producer Christian as they delve into the magic of perfect song placements in films like Almost Famous, Guardians of the Galaxy and more, and listen to how the acoustic guitar is the secret ingredient in Modern English's “I Melt With You,” a song synonymous with the film Valley Girl. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Get into the interplay between classic rock songs and iconic movie scenes in this bonus episode of the Behind The Song podcast. Join Janda and producer Christian as they delve into the magic of perfect song placements in films like Almost Famous, Guardians of the Galaxy and more, and listen to how the acoustic guitar is the secret ingredient in Modern English's “I Melt With You,” a song synonymous with the film Valley Girl. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Why does Modern English's "I Melt With You" still resonate so much today? The latest episode of the Behind The Song podcast explores its Cold War roots, its totally unexpected rise to fame in the Valley Girl movie, and its lasting legacy. Join Janda for a dive into this 80s classic! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Why does Modern English's "I Melt With You" still resonate so much today? The latest episode of the Behind The Song podcast explores its Cold War roots, its totally unexpected rise to fame in the Valley Girl movie, and its lasting legacy. Join Janda for a dive into this 80s classic! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Dive into the magical world of the Trans-Siberian Orchestra! In this episode of the Behind The Song podcast, Janda talks with guitarist and musical director Al Pitrelli about the extraordinary journey of TSO from its inception to becoming a holiday tradition. Listen as he shares the fantastic story of how the late Paul O'Neill's vision of blending rock with Christmas carols and classical music evolved into an experience that keeps fans coming back year after year! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Dive into the magical world of the Trans-Siberian Orchestra! In this episode of the Behind The Song podcast, Janda talks with guitarist and musical director Al Pitrelli about the extraordinary journey of TSO from its inception to becoming a holiday tradition. Listen as he shares the fantastic story of how the late Paul O'Neill's vision of blending rock with Christmas carols and classical music evolved into an experience that keeps fans coming back year after year! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Follow along with Janda and her music producer husband Christian in this bonus episode of the Behind The Song podcast as they explore the influences behind Guns N' Roses "November Rain," how the band added another layer to their legendary reputation during their wild summer in Chicago, and how one important, collaborative friendship has lasted a lifetime for Axl Rose. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Follow along with Janda and her music producer husband Christian in this bonus episode of the Behind The Song podcast as they explore the influences behind Guns N' Roses "November Rain," how the band added another layer to their legendary reputation during their wild summer in Chicago, and how one important, collaborative friendship has lasted a lifetime for Axl Rose. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Are you one of the two-billion-plus Youtube views on Guns ‘N Roses epic “November Rain” music video? Chances are, you've seen it. It's as over-the-top as they come, for a song that Axl Rose started writing on piano almost ten years earlier, and it was the first video released before Youtube existed to get to a billion views. It's part of a trilogy, all based on a short story by longtime Guns ‘N Roses affiliate, Del James, who has now been the band's road manager for decades. Let's get into the story in this episode of the Behind The Song podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Are you one of the two-billion-plus Youtube views on Guns ‘N Roses epic “November Rain” music video? Chances are, you've seen it. It's as over-the-top as they come, for a song that Axl Rose started writing on piano almost ten years earlier, and it was the first video released before Youtube existed to get to a billion views. It's part of a trilogy, all based on a short story by longtime Guns ‘N Roses affiliate, Del James, who has now been the band's road manager for decades. Let's get into the story in this episode of the Behind The Song podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
In this bonus episode of the Behind the Song podcast, host Janda and music producer Christian Lane, who also happens to be her husband, delve into the fascinating world of Alice Cooper, exploring the stories and influences that didn't make it into the main episode, "When Alice Cooper stopped playing nice." From Cooper's friendship with Groucho Marx to his pivotal role in saving the iconic Hollywood sign, join Janda and Christian as they uncover the layers of creativity and innovation that have kept Alice Cooper a staple in the music industry for decades. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
In this bonus episode of the Behind the Song podcast, host Janda and music producer Christian Lane, who also happens to be her husband, delve into the fascinating world of Alice Cooper, exploring the stories and influences that didn't make it into the main episode, "When Alice Cooper stopped playing nice." From Cooper's friendship with Groucho Marx to his pivotal role in saving the iconic Hollywood sign, join Janda and Christian as they uncover the layers of creativity and innovation that have kept Alice Cooper a staple in the music industry for decades. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Without a doubt, he's one of the most fascinating artists on the rock timeline. In fact, Alice Cooper has done such an incredible job of making sure that rock has an enduring spectacle element to it, of being kind of the embodiment of the freaky side of rock, that it's hard to imagine that there wasn't ever an Alice Cooper on stage somewhere, snakes, guillotines, electric chairs and all. But of course there was, and it took a while for Alice Cooper's brand of entertainment to catch hold. When the Billion Dollar Babies album was released in 1973, Alice Cooper topped the charts, the world finally catching up with the idea that glam rock could be the vehicle for a brutal caricature, a theatrical madman, an entertainer who has also come to be known as one of the nicest guys in rock. So it's funny that one of the hits on that album is about not playing nice anymore in favor of letting one's freak flag fly. Let's dig into the story of “No More Mister Nice Guy” in this episode of the Behind The Song podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
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