Bill and Frank's Guilt-Free Pleasures

Mick Hucknall may be a polarising figure in the British media (well, I guess it mostly is only the "hate" pole), but how can anyone deny the power of "Holding Back the Years"? It's a song birthed in a stream of consciousness writing exercise but steeped in a history of childhood sadness. We discuss our own sadness, give a deep analysis of the song and video, and we also discuss why we refuse to pair a wine with this Simply Red. Links: Official Video Frantic Elevators version Simply Red Live from Santiago Thank you for listening! Connect with us on Instagram, Facebook, etc., or send us an email at BandFGuiltFree@gmail.com! We'd love your feedback—please rate and review, and don't forget to share our podcast with your friends! Our theme music is by the incredibly talented Ian McGlynn.

Today, we dive into Dan Hill's 1977 mega-ballad, "Sometimes When We Touch." Often labeled the ultimate "weeper," this track explores themes of masculine fragility and raw vulnerability. These concepts commonplace today but groundbreaking for the late 1970s. We discuss how a 19-year-old Hill penned these intense lyrics to compete for the affection of a polyamorous woman who was simultaneously dating a professional football player and a photographer. We also examine the song's unlikely collaboration with songwriter Barry Mann, which helped propel the track to number three on the Billboard Hot 100 during a week otherwise dominated by the Bee Gees. From death-defying encounters involving a gun in the Bahamas to a hostage-like bowling incident, we explore how Hill endured his "albatross" until he recognized it as an open door to a world of opportunities. Join us as we analyze the lyrics and determine if this polarizing hit is truly a guilt-free pleasure or simply "too effing intense" for the average listener! 1970s video 1990s video SCTV "High Q" Sketch Thank you for listening! Connect with us on Instagram, Facebook, etc., or send us an email at BandFGuiltFree@gmail.com! We'd love your feedback—please rate and review, and don't forget to share our podcast with your friends! Our theme music is by the incredibly talented Ian McGlynn.  

We go deep in this week's episodes by delving into the complexities of relationship-mending. For example, the only way to keep someone is to let them go. It's the paradox of Broken Wings, and we are here to learn to fly again. Despite a bad coffee order to start things, we get right on track and discuss the enduring influence of Khalil Gibran on music - or at least on a few Beatles songs and this Mr. Mister tune. We discuss redemption, healing, and dangerous blackbirds. Frank also brings a Hallmark movie to possibly end all Hallmark movies.

For a good few years, Paula Abdul was an unstoppable force in music. We discuss her beginnings and the creation of her bestselling debut album. It all culminates in this song - her 4th #1 Billboard Hot 100 hit featuring a rapping randy alley cat. It's a natural fact! Links: Official Video Video before rotoscoping Paula Abdul in 1978 - "The Party Song" Thank you for listening! Connect with us on Instagram, Facebook, etc., or send us an email at BandFGuiltFree@gmail.com! We'd love your feedback—please rate and review, and don't forget to share our podcast with your friends! Our theme music is by the incredibly talented Ian McGlynn.  

Nathan Holmes rejoins us for an episode that will bring you back those summertime vibes even if it is the coldest time of the year (as it is for us at this moment in Canada). Len's "Steal My Sunshine" holds a special place in our hearts as the three of us all feel personally connected to the song. Bring out your butter tarts and your eight-foot heap slurpees: let's have a million miles of fun as we dive deep into this late 90s gem! Links: Official video Video Shoot Day 5 Thank you for listening! Connect with us on Instagram, Facebook, etc., or send us an email at BandFGuiltFree@gmail.com! We'd love your feedback—please rate and review, and don't forget to share our podcast with your friends! Our theme music is by the incredibly talented Ian McGlynn.  

Although written about the world events that marked the end of the 1980s, Seal's "Crazy" can easily be about our own tumultuous times. Join us as we discuss the song's backstory and give our contemporary analysis of its lyrics. So fire up your speedboats and get ready for a montage sequence: it's time to get a little crazy.  Links: Official Video Thank you for listening! Connect with us on Instagram, Facebook, etc., or send us an email at BandFGuiltFree@gmail.com! We'd love your feedback—please rate and review, and don't forget to share our podcast with your friends! Our theme music is by the incredibly talented Ian McGlynn.  

Bill is very excited to bring this episode to you. Not only is it a song out of the Genesis Extended Universe (GEU), but it also features Paul Carrack (which means this is part of the Carrackverse). It is also a song about long shots, which means this resonates with Bill's love life - Miracles DO happen. Get off your phone, Frank! Links Original Version Video '96 Version Video Top of the Pops '86 Thank you for being part of our journey! Connect with us on Instagram, Facebook, etc., or send us an email at BandFGuiltFree@gmail.com! We'd love your feedback—please rate and review, and don't forget to share our podcast with your friends! Our theme music is by the incredibly talented Ian McGlynn.

Where did Josie go after all? And can her friend be trusted? We certainly know that Josie's boyfriend isn't a man of honour, unless Frank's Hallmark movie is to be believed. Besides these questions, we cover the history of The Outfield, analyse "Your Love," and give a deep analysis of its music video. We're glad you joined us! Links:  Official Video SNL Sketch Acoustic Version Katy Perry Version Bruno Mars Version Family Guy Version Thank you for being part of our journey! Connect with us on Instagram, Facebook, etc., or send us an email at BandFGuiltFree@gmail.com! We'd love your feedback—please rate and review, and don't forget to share our podcast with your friends! Our theme music is by the incredibly talented Ian McGlynn.

"That's the challenge of the song: he's giving us these people at Christmas and forcing us, in the spirit of the season, to find grace for them. He's channeling the fundamental nature of Christmas." - Dave Kitchen In honour of Bill's brother-in-law, Kurt, we are finally featuring the song that Nick Cave said spoke with "profound compassion to the marginalised and the dispossessed." It's a Christmas song unlike any other.  Links: Official Video Live Version on Top of the Pops 1992 Demo Version #2 Jon Bon Jovi version Vance Joy version Bill Murray version Glen Hansard and Lisa O'Neill tribute performance Thank you for being part of our journey! Connect with us on Instagram, Facebook, etc., or send us an email at BandFGuiltFree@gmail.com! We'd love your feedback—please rate and review, and don't forget to share our podcast with your friends! Our theme music is by the incredibly talented Ian McGlynn.    

We are joined by our friends Dee and Jeff from the true crime review podcast So Much Crime, So Little Time to discuss a song based on a true crime. The Cranberries' "Zombie" is a song written in reaction to the 1993 Warrington bombings by the Provisional IRA that killed two children. We delve into the history of the band as well as the background behind the writing of the song. We also discuss Dee's lived Irish experience and how it measures up to Frank's independent study for his grade 12 history class on the IRA. Jeff brings us into the 1993 Time Machine (one of our favourite parts of "So Much Crime, So Little Time") while Bill brings a mixtape that can be only described with guttural 1990s rock sounds. We're excited for you to hear this crossover "very special episode!" Links: Zombie Official Video So Much Crime, So Little Time podcast website Thank you for being part of our journey! Connect with us on Instagram, Facebook, etc., or send us an email at BandFGuiltFree@gmail.com! We'd love your feedback—please rate and review, and don't forget to share our podcast with your friends! Our theme music is by the incredibly talented Ian McGlynn.

The King has come to Guilt-Free Pleasures! There are many great Elvis songs, but this one is our favourite. Get on your white superhero sequined jumpsuit and get your karate kicks kicking - it's time to revisit 1972 Elvis Presley! Live Elvis Version Bruno Mars and his nephews Thank you for being part of our journey! Connect with us on Instagram, Facebook, etc., or send us an email at BandFGuiltFree@gmail.com! We'd love your feedback—please rate and review, and don't forget to share our podcast with your friends! Our theme music is by the incredibly talented Ian McGlynn.

When compared to the other songs featured in this podcast, this song is virtually brand new! We discuss Miley's early career and dive deep into the song that sent her career up to new heights. We also discuss the importance of enjoying the journey rather than the destination, but also acknowledge that is rarely said by those who tumble to their destruction while climbing the mountain. Links: The Climb Official Video The Climb in the Hannah Montana: The Movie Thank you for being part of our journey! Connect with us on Instagram, Facebook, etc., or send us an email at BandFGuiltFree@gmail.com! We'd love your feedback—please rate and review, and don't forget to share our podcast with your friends! Our theme music is by the incredibly talented Ian McGlynn.

Disclaimer: We were wrong! Aretha Franklin sang "America The Beautiful" at Wrestlemania 3, not Wrestlemania 1. Hope month goes into episode 4 with this number 1 hit by Aretha & George. Faith and Hope abide, as the apostle Paul says. But the greatest of these is love, and you can feel it throughout this entire song. We dive into the hilarious stories behind the recording of the song and give you a deep, deep analysis of the intricacies of "I Knew You Were Waiting (For Me)." Grab a rack of ribs and enjoy! Helpful links: George Michael on recording with Aretha Franklin Live Version Official Video Thank you for being part of our journey! Connect with us on Instagram, Facebook, etc., or send us an email at BandFGuiltFree@gmail.com! We'd love your feedback—please rate and review, and don't forget to share our podcast with your friends! Our theme music is by the incredibly talented Ian McGlynn.

You can't get much more hopeful if you are hopping on a love train! We discuss the O'Jays' biggest hit and do our best to situate you in the history and geography of the early 1970s. Get on board! Links: Original Video Last Days Disco Subway Dance Scene Thank you for being part of our journey! Connect with us on Instagram, Facebook, etc., or send us an email at BandFGuiltFree@gmail.com! We'd love your feedback—please rate and review, and don't forget to share our podcast with your friends! Our theme music is by the incredibly talented Ian McGlynn.

Welcome to the "cry-iest" episode of our podcast. Frank cannot contain his emotion when discussing James Ingraam's voice and the plight of Fievel and Tanya from "An American Tail." We also welcome Tabitha VandenEnden to discuss kids choirs, the power of an alto voice (even if you wish you were a soprano), and a song full of hope despite that big somewhere out there.  Links: Official Video Movie Version First Live Performance Community Episode Highlights If you are in the Niagara area and are interested in Tabitha's community children's choir, you can find out more at singout.ca.  Thank you for being part of our journey! Connect with us on Instagram, Facebook, etc., or send us an email at BandFGuiltFree@gmail.com! We'd love your feedback—please rate and review, and don't forget to share our podcast with your friends! Our theme music is by the incredibly talented Ian McGlynn.

Today we are beginning a new series called "Hope Month" as we examine and celebrate the songs that point to a brighter future. What better way to start than with Styx who make a pointed request to the Divine as they scramble for hope: "Show Me The Way."  We (briefly) discuss the band's history and take a deep dive into the meanings behind the song, including an examination of how Dennis DeYoung is able to use his illusion (I and II) to bring himself to higher ground.  Links: Official Video Thank you for being part of our journey! Connect with us on Instagram, Facebook, etc., or send us an email at BandFGuiltFree@gmail.com! We'd love your feedback—please rate and review, and don't forget to share our podcast with your friends! Our theme music is by the incredibly talented Ian McGlynn.

It's our spooky Halloween episode! More show notes to come tomorrow!

Fidelity, Phil Collins, and Draculas - we cover a wide range of topics in this week's episode on Howard Jones' "No One Is To Blame." Besides our customary song analysis, we also revisit Bill and Frank's earlier jobs (in shoes and construction) and the lessons learned from staring at restaurant menus without eating any food. Official Video Howard Jones on Top of the Pops with the mime Rachael Sage cover (Live) Thank you for being part of our journey! Connect with us on Instagram, Facebook, etc., or send us an email at BandFGuiltFree@gmail.com! We'd love your feedback—please rate and review, and don't forget to share our podcast with your friends! Our theme music is by the incredibly talented Ian McGlynn.

Hey now, hey now, we're bringing you one of the most comforting and reassuring songs we know. Dave Kitchen joins us for his 23rd episode (not to be too gauche about it) and we dive into the signature song of Crowded House. Beyond an in depth musical, lyrical, and visual analysis, we also discuss kiwis, a Hallmark movie set in New Zealand, and the feeling of floating down a lazy river to Neil Finn's soothing voice. Helpful links: Official video The live version from their farewell concert Glee version Sixpence None The Richer version Thank you for being part of our journey! Connect with us on Instagram, Facebook, etc., or send us an email at BandFGuiltFree@gmail.com! We'd love your feedback—please rate and review, and don't forget to share our podcast with your friends! Our theme music is by the incredibly talented Ian McGlynn.  

A video featuring a seat belt outfits and a tattooed buttox might have made this song controversial, but this song has outlasted any naysayers. We dive into Cher's signature hit, "If I Could Turn Back Time," and discuss its history and lasting impact. Themes of regret and second chances speak directly to our heart, while a pitch for a time-travelling film featuring a bagel baker and whale calls speaks directly to our not-so-secret desire to find a career in the Hallmark film industry. In short, this song captures what Bill & Frank's Guilt-Free Pleasures is all about. Links: Official Music Video Cher appears on Will & Grace Thank you for being part of our journey! Connect with us on Instagram, Facebook, etc., or send us an email at BandFGuiltFree@gmail.com! We'd love your feedback—please rate and review, and don't forget to share our podcast with your friends! Our theme music is by the incredibly talented Ian McGlynn.

Our final episode of hate month has Frank bringing Mariah Carey's “Hero” to the table, and Bill is not happy. Will the podcast survive this song?

Hate month continues with Bill bringing the most controversial song choice to our podcast. There is a lot of hate out there for Nickelback (and Frank “represembles” it in his reaction), but Bill is convinced he is not alone in his celebration of “Far Away.” He hopes you are convinced after this episode to give this song an open-hearted listen - are you ready to take up the challenge? Official Video Thank you for being part of our journey! Connect with us on Instagram, Facebook, etc., or send us an email at BandFGuiltFree@gmail.com! We'd love your feedback—please rate and review, and don't forget to share our podcast with your friends! Our theme music is by the incredibly talented Ian McGlynn.

Hate month continues - this time it is Frank's turn to bring a song to draw Bill's ire. “Un-Break My Heart” is Toni Braxton's signature song and it breaks Frank's heart every time he hears it. It also causes Bill pain, but in a different way. Thank you for joining us! We'd love to hear where you stand on this tune.  Links: official video Thank you for being part of our journey! Connect with us on Instagram, Facebook, etc., or send us an email at BandFGuiltFree@gmail.com! We'd love your feedback—please rate and review, and don't forget to share our podcast with your friends! Our theme music is by the incredibly talented Ian McGlynn.

In order to shake things up, we are beginning a special series called "Hate Month," where one of us brings a beloved song that the other host hates. Bill draws first blood in this episode with “Iris” by the Goo Goo Dolls (much to Frank's dismay).  Links (if your podcast provider supports them): Official Video Taylor Swift Duet Buffalo 4th of July Performance Thank you for being part of our journey! Connect with us on Instagram, Facebook, etc., or send us an email at BandFGuiltFree@gmail.com! We'd love your feedback—please rate and review, and don't forget to share our podcast with your friends! Our theme music is by the incredibly talented Ian McGlynn.

Beyond its surface reading, "Take Me Home Tonight" is also about the revival of the careers of Eddie Money and Ronnie Spector. This song is a triumph. In today's episode, we examine the histories of both artists that ultimately converge into this top ten hit, we analyse the song, and we bring back (albeit briefly) the theme of tender-hearted werewolves in a guilt-free pleasure.  Links: Official Video Take Me Home Tonight on Letterman Be My Baby by the Ronettes Thank you for being part of our journey! Connect with us on Instagram, Facebook, etc., or send us an email at BandFGuiltFree@gmail.com! We'd love your feedback—please rate and review, and don't forget to share our podcast with your friends! Our theme music is by the incredibly talented Ian McGlynn.

We recorded this on Frank's birthday and Bill chose this song in his honour. Despite Frank researching the wrong song, we feel it still all comes together. Stay tuned for the surprise birthday wishes at the episode's end! Links: Official Video New South Wales Campaign The Office Clip Schitt's Creek Clip with Noah Reid Thank you for being part of our journey! Connect with us on Instagram, Facebook, etc., or send us an email at BandFGuiltFree@gmail.com! We'd love your feedback—please rate and review, and don't forget to share our podcast with your friends! Our theme music is by the incredibly talented Ian McGlynn.

Mike V joins us to discuss this bonafide jam from 1995. We examine Montell Jordan's background and current status, analyse (and explain) the lyrics, discuss the Phrygian mode, and give an epic mixtape for the ages. We're all about conviviality here, so you can trust us when we say you will enjoy this episode: we never come whack on an old school track!   Links:  Official Video Master Peace Church services Thank you for being part of our journey! Connect with us on Instagram, Facebook, etc., or send us an email at BandFGuiltFree@gmail.com to get on our newsletter! We'd love your feedback—please rate and review, and don't forget to share our podcast with your friends! Our theme music is by the incredibly talented Ian McGlynn.

The ending of a relationship may be painful, but it's far worse for the narrator of Holland-Dozier-Holland's "You Keep Me Hangin' On" - the ending never quite seems to come for this jilted lover. This song has resonated over the decades as evidenced by it's many versions, starting with original Supremes version and all the way up to recent times in Glee. Today we will be celebrating our favourite version: the hi-NRG Kim Wilde 1986 classic! We dive deep into the history of Wilde as well share a close analysis of the song. It can be a tough episode for those who've been burned by love, but that's what we're here for - let us be your soft place to land if you've been hanging on too long. Links: Official Music Video Perfect End Credits Vanilla Fudge on the Ed Sullivan Show Thank you for being part of our journey! Connect with us on Instagram, Facebook, etc., or send us an email at BandFGuiltFree@gmail.com to get on our newsletter! We'd love your feedback—please rate and review, and don't forget to share our podcast with your friends! Our theme music is by the incredibly talented Ian McGlynn.  

Our friend Kim Desing-McCardle joins us to discuss one of her all-time favourite songs. This is a longer one, but we cannot do this song justice in a brief amount of time. Speaking of doing justice - we valiantly attempt to do our best three part harmony for our version of the chorus and prove that any imitation of this incredible song is second rate. But we certainly tried.  Links: Official Video Angel City Chorale version Weezer version Thank you for being part of our journey! Connect with us on Instagram, Facebook, etc., or send us an email at BandFGuiltFree@gmail.com to get on our newsletter! We'd love your feedback—please rate and review, and don't forget to share our podcast with your friends! Our theme music is by the incredibly talented Ian McGlynn.

Sussudio is an incredible song, but would you sing along with it with your windows down in the car? We're here to help our friend Peter to sing it loud and proud for the whole world to hear! Sussudio may be indebted to Prince's "1999," but it's also it's own awesome thing. Join us as we celebrate Phil Collins' #1 hit! Links: Official Video Howard Stern Version Thank you for being part of our journey! Connect with us on Instagram, Facebook, etc., or send us an email at BandFGuiltFree@gmail.com to get on our newsletter! We'd love your feedback—please rate and review, and don't forget to share our podcast with your friends! Our theme music is by the incredibly talented Ian McGlynn.

It's kind of crazy to realize that this song is now over twenty years old. "Since U Been Gone" still feels fresh for us and we hope you understand why by the end of this episode.  Helpful links: Original Video Kelly Clarkson singing in the rain! Thank you for being part of our journey! Connect with us on Instagram, Facebook, etc., or send us an email at BandFGuiltFree@gmail.com to get on our newsletter! We'd love your feedback—please rate and review, and don't forget to share our podcast with your friends! Our theme music is by the incredibly talented Ian McGlynn.

We cover a range of songs for the ever-expanding mandate of our podcast, but Robbie Nevil's "C'est La Vie" is one of those songs that did very well when it came out, but it has been somewhat lost to time over the past few decades. Bill intends to bring it back to the listening public, while Frank wants to explain its connection to both Baywatch's Hobie Buchannon and Tom Waits "Rain Dogs." Hang on tight for this one!  Top Pops - the true video The "official video Thank you for being part of our journey! Connect with us on Instagram, Facebook, etc., or send us an email at BandFGuiltFree@gmail.com to get on our newsletter! We'd love your feedback—please rate and review, and don't forget to share our podcast with your friends! Our theme music is by the incredibly talented Ian McGlynn.

Aptly timed to come out on the day of Bill's 13th anniversary with Ashley, "If Ever You're In My Arms Again" succinctly captures their love story. And to add (or subtract?) to an already perfect song, Frank gives us his most heartfelt vocals as he attempts to channel his inner Bryson. We take an in-depth analysis of the song and then we bring back some categories that have laid dormant for the past while. It's time to get back to what this podcast is all about! Helpful Links: Official (?) Video Thank you for being part of our journey! Connect with us on Instagram, Facebook, etc., or send us an email at BandFGuiltFree@gmail.com to get on our newsletter! We'd love your feedback—please rate and review, and don't forget to share our podcast with your friends! Our theme music is by the incredibly talented Ian McGlynn.

"Life Is a Highway" is the ultimate pep talk to get yourself out of your rut and back onto road. Dave Kitchen joins us for his 21st episode to discuss the importance of this song to our young 1990s selves and to Canada as a whole. We cover the song's history as well as its mark in popular culture. We revisit the Tom Cochrane - Bryan Adams war of the early 90s as well. Finally, we return to the Hallmark movie category before we give you an epic road trip mixtape.  Links: Original Video Family Guy Life Is a Highway Freelove Freeway - The Office Rascal Flatts Video Pop-Up Video Thank you for being part of our journey! Connect with us on Instagram, Facebook, etc., or send us an email at BandFGuiltFree@gmail.com to get on our newsletter! We'd love your feedback—please rate and review, and don't forget to share our podcast with your friends! Our theme music is by the incredibly talented Ian McGlynn.

Adolescent longing is often dismissed, but we remember the pain and suffering of high school infatuation all too well. Meryn Cadell's "The Sweater" captures this with both humour and empathy, and we want to make sure that we bring listeners back to this surprising hit from 1992. We explore Cadell's unique lyrical style, discuss one of the great professional figure skating performances of the 90s, and work through our own teenage pain. Thank you for joining us! Links: Official Video Figure Skating Routine A great article by Mark Edward Randall  Thank you for being part of our journey! Connect with us on Instagram, Facebook, etc., or send us an email at BandFGuiltFree@gmail.com to get on our newsletter! We'd love your feedback—please rate and review, and don't forget to share our podcast with your friends! Our theme music is by the incredibly talented Ian McGlynn.

Inspired by a Heather's request, we are delving into the beloved 1987 hit “Heaven Is a Place on Earth” by Belinda Carlisle. We do our best to unravel the magic behind this quintessential pop anthem (but of course, the magic always remains). From the fascinating story behind the creation of the tune to Carlisle's signature vibrato to the irresistible production and bizarre video, we cover everything we can for you! Official Music Video Thank you for being part of our journey! Connect with us on Instagram, Facebook, etc., or send us an email at BandFGuiltFree@gmail.com to get on our newsletter! We'd love your feedback—please rate and review, and don't forget to share our podcast with your friends! Our theme music is by the incredibly talented Ian McGlynn.

In this episode, we record in the early morning to celebrate a song that embodies both power and vulnerability: ‘A Little Respect' by Erasure. Join us as we embrace the early hour to discuss the profound nature of Erasure's anthemic ode to love, vulnerability, and acceptance. The dynamic between Bell and Clarke, with Clarke's meticulous compositions (and impressive previous history) complemented by Bell's soaring vocals (and soulful lyrics), set the stage for a powerful partnership that has spanned nearly four decades. We hope you catch the joyful vibe. Links: Official Video That live version from the early 1990s Bjorn Again Version Wheatus Version Yazoo's Only You Depeche Mode with a happy Vince Clarke Thank you for being part of our journey! Connect with us on Instagram, Facebook, or via email at BandFGuiltFree@gmail.com (we'll start a newsletter if you sent us your email!). We'd love your feedback—please rate and review, and don't forget to share our podcast with your friends! Our theme music is by the incredibly talented Ian McGlynn.

Our friend Kahlin passed away this week and we are heartbroken. To honour her memory, we wanted to do our small part and re-post the episode she did with us from December 2023. This episode was a ton of fun and we hope you can feel it when you listen, too. We also hope you can hear the joy in Kahlin's voice and the laughter that fills the room as she reminisces about what Sugar Ray meant to her grade 6 heart in the late 90s. We love you, Kahlin!

We discuss Pat Benatar's memorable anthem "Hit Me With Your Best Shot" and it's unlikely beginnings - at a pillow punching therapy session in Toronto. We also discuss our own misadventures with punching and what it means to be in the cultural zeitgeist.  Thank you for listening! You can find us on Instagram, Facebook, and our website. You can email us at BandFGuiltFree@gmail.com, too. We'd love to hear from you. Please rate and review us wherever you listen, but more importantly - share our show with your friends! Our theme music is by the incredibly talented Ian McGlynn  

"There are two types of people in this world: Those who like Neil Diamond, and those who don't." - Dr. Bob Wiley, author of the renowned memoir Death Therapy. As Dr. Bob suggests, you can divide the world into two (hopefully unequal) parts. You'll find Bill and Frank on the bright side of the world where Neil Diamond is adored. This episode sees the return of Dan Ducroix, who fell in love with the music of Neil Diamond over 25 years ago, leading him for a brief period to emulate the 1970s style of the smouldering version of Neil. He may have abandoned the belt buckles and mutton chops, but not his love for the music of the Jewish Elvis. We celebrate the most ubiquitous (ubonkquitous?) of the Diamond catalogue: "Sweet Caroline." We discuss not only the history of the song, but also reflect on singalong culture and dangers of writing a song inspired by E.T. Thank you for listening! You can find us on Instagram, Facebook, and our website. You can email us at BandFGuiltFree@gmail.com, too. We'd love to hear from you. Please rate and review us wherever you listen, but more importantly - share our show with your friends! Our theme music is by the incredibly talented Ian McGlynn  

“Sweet City Woman” is a quintessential Canadian song - it contains both English and French lyrics and it celebrates Toronto while using the language of the countryside. In this week's episode, Frank attempts (and fails) to rename the podcast, we bring back Mel Bourque to help us understand the French version of the song, and we determine if we have Canadian accents   Links: "Official" Video SCTV Canadian Film Going Down The Road - Yonge St Thank you for listening! You can find us on Instagram, Facebook, and our website. You can email us at BandFGuiltFree@gmail.com, too. We'd love to hear from you. Please rate and review us wherever you listen, but more importantly - share our show with your friends! Our theme music is by the incredibly talented Ian McGlynn

It's hard to believe that this is a song from 1989 as Roy Orbison is an icon from the early days of Rock n' Roll, and his voice sounds just as powerful as it did 30 years before. We are glad to bring this song to you. We hope you (like us) are transcended to a higher plain when you hear his voice! Official Video Clips of the recording process of You Got It You can find us on Instagram, Facebook, and our website. You can email us at BandFGuiltFree@gmail.com, too. We'd love to hear from you. Please rate and review us wherever you listen, but more importantly - share our show with your friends! Our theme music is by the incredibly talented Ian McGlynn.

There is something thrilling about a long-established band having a hit late in their career. They say pop music is for the youth of the day, so seeing a group of 40-year-olds continue to run with the wildebeests warms the heart. The Whispers proved that they can certainly “Rock Steady” with their younger peers. It also certainly didn't hurt to be gifted an incredible jam by the soon-to-be legendary songwriting team of Babyface and L.A. Reid. We're glad you've joined us for our celebration of The Whispers legendary hit, “Rock Steady!” Links: Official Video Babyface Demo Babyface live performance Babyface's Re-imagined "Rock Steady" You can find us on Instagram, Facebook, and our website. You can email us at BandFGuiltFree@gmail.com, too. We'd love to hear from you. Please rate and review us wherever you listen, but more importantly - share our show with your friends! Our theme music is by the incredibly talented Ian McGlynn.

In today's milestone episode, we celebrate Dave Kitchen's 20th appearance on Bill and Frank's Guilt-Free Pleasures, featuring The Cure's iconic “Friday I'm in Love.” We recall the polarizing debates amongst our peers at the high school cafeteria over whether The Cure sold out (they didn't!), and Kitch brings us back to recognizing the unique duality of The Cure, reminding us how the band has regularly oscillated between pop elegance and goth melancholy. (Stay tuned to the very end for a very special version of "A Whole New World" featuring Frank with some backing vocals by Bill.) Links: Official Video Natalie Imbruglia's Version You can find us on Instagram, Facebook, and our website. You can email us at BandFGuiltFree@gmail.com, too. We'd love to hear from you. Please rate and review us wherever you listen, but more importantly - share our show with your friends! Our theme music is by the incredibly talented Ian McGlynn.  

In today's episode, we revisit the 80s pop sensation Taylor Dane and her iconic hit "Love Will Lead You Back." We delve into Dane's overlooked legacy (seven top 10 hits over two albums!) and explore the emotional power of Frank's favourite Taylor Dayne song. Even though Bill would have preferred to discuss “Tell it To My Heart” instead, he shares his evolving appreciation for today's song, while Frank highlights its themes of hope and love's resilience – as well as somehow once again recounting the time he went 4-for-4 from the three-point line during a ninth-grade basketball game. “Love Will Lead You Back” brings back lots of memories and forces us to come to terms with our own relationship breakdowns. Despite all these complicated feelings, love still leads us back to bringing these songs to you each week! Links: Official Video Tig Notaro's story of meeting Taylor Dayne You can find us on Instagram, Facebook, and our website. You can email us at BandFGuiltFree@gmail.com, too. We'd love to hear from you. Please rate and review us wherever you listen! Our theme music is by the incredibly talented Ian McGlynn.  

In this week's episode, we jump into a song that's more than just a nostalgic tune—it's a fascinating slice of pop culture with an equally intriguing backstory. Prepare to delve into “Nothing's Gonna Change My Love For You,” a hit brought to life by Glenn Medeiros, whose music video might just be one of the most dangerous ever made—a song that sends us spiraling into conversations about love, nostalgia, and the odd memories we have tied to the Muppets. We would like to also remind listeners just how much we appreciate their support and reaffirm the sentiment of this week's featured track: that love in all its forms is something to be cherished—and nothing's going to change that! Links: Official Video You can find us on Instagram, Facebook, and our website. You can email us at BandFGuiltFree@gmail.com, too. We'd love to hear from you. Please rate and review us wherever you listen! Our theme music is by the incredibly talented Ian McGlynn.  

In this episode we explore the sultry magic of Barry White, focusing on his iconic track "You're the First, the Last, My Everything." We discuss Barry's rise from the streets of Watts to his status as a soul legend, we unravel themes of love and seduction, we dive into the passionate lyrics and lush arrangements that define White's sound, and we celebrate his artistry as both a vocalist and innovative producer. Prepare yourself for an unforgettable journey through love's essence!  Links: 1970s performance Ally McBeal performance Ally McBeal bathroom dance You can find us on Instagram, Facebook, and our website. You can email us at BandFGuiltFree@gmail.com, too. We'd love to hear from you. Please rate and review us wherever you listen! Our theme music is by the incredibly talented Ian McGlynn.

It's hard to believe that it's taken us this long to do "Karma Chameleon," but maybe we needed to be at our A-game to handle a song this amazing. If you were alive in 1983, you would have heard this tune everywhere and you would have loved it! We go deep into the background of the band and the song, and we find out that it's a lot darker than we realized. Nevertheless, the joys of the song endure as our memories of 1983 come and go, come and go. Links: Official Music Video Live acoustic from 1983 You can find us on Instagram, Facebook, and our website. You can email us at BandFGuiltFree@gmail.com, too. We'd love to hear from you. Please rate and review us wherever you listen! Our theme music is by the incredibly talented Ian McGlynn.

We explore the DNA remix of Suzanne Vega's "Tom's Diner" by taking a deep dive into the song's history and cultural significance, particularly how the original version became an integral part of the MP3 narrative. We also discuss the themes embedded within the lyrics - a stream-of-consciousness portrayal of someone experiencing life through a pane of glass, which gives us not only a time capsule of 1980s New York City, but also triggers our own bittersweet (painful) memories. Additionally, you'll hear about the worst bartender in St. Catharines, a chaotic mixtape, and about the recognition of our own branding: Bill as the know-it-all and Frank as the sexy bad boy. Welcome to an episode featuring the intersection of music, technology, and personal memory – pretty much a good summation of what we do here! Thank you for joining us. Here are some helpful links to further your enjoyment of the episode: First known recorded version of "Tom's Diner" The original video for the released version of "Tom's Diner" The DNA video for "Tom's Diner" (the one you probably know best) Tom's Essay by Suzanne Vega And, finally, this is incredible: "Tom's Diner" Live at Royal Albert Hall, 1986 You can find us on Instagram, Facebook, and our website. You can email us at BandFGuiltFree@gmail.com, too. We'd love to hear from you. Please rate and review us wherever you listen! Our theme music is by the incredibly talented Ian McGlynn.  

From Rad to Knuckles, Real Life's “Send Me An Angel” sets a perfect t scene. We hope you enjoy our discussion of the history and analysis of an 80s classic! Helpful Links Werewolf Video 89 Video You can find us on Instagram, Facebook, and our website. You can email us at BandFGuiltFree@gmail.com, too. We'd love to hear from you. Please rate and review us wherever you listen! Our theme music is by the incredibly talented Ian McGlynn.

The Human League's "Human" is both irresistible and ridiculous. Despite the reprehensible content, Terry Lewis and Jimmy Jam create an earworm of a melody, and when combined with the not-quite-as-robotic-as-before vocals of Philip Oakey (which we continually mispronounce as "Oakley"), we can't help but return repeatedly to the tune. We discuss the history of the band, the song, and whether we can ever deem this to be a "guilt-free pleasure." Thank you for joining us! Links: The Official Video