The Story Behind The Song

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This week in a very special episode of The Story Behind the Song , host Peter Csathy welcomes indie rock icons Scott "Spiral Stairs" Kannberg and Steve West of Pavement to break down “Kennel District” on the 30th anniversary of the album Wowee Zowee . Discover the inspiration behind the song, one of only a handful of Pavement songs written and sung by Kannberg. They discuss the recording process of Wowee Zowee and offer insight into the ethos and creative philosophy behind the band, and also reflect on their involvement with the Lollapalooza tour in 1995, including the infamous mud-slinging incident. Also in this episode, the duo discuss Alex Ross Perry’s Pavements movie based on the band. Part biopic, part documentary, and part musical, the film carves a unique identity for itself through creativity, experimentation, and authenticity, just like the band itself. Later in the episode, Kannberg and West talk about their ongoing reunion tour and plans for the future, as well as the legacy of the band. They touch on their recent viral popularity on TikTok and what it’s like seeing a new generation of young fans showing up to their shows. Listen to Scott Kannberg and Steve West talk about “Kennel District” and more, and then be sure to check out Pavements showing now only on MUBI . Story Behind the Song listeners can get 30 days of MUBI free by signing up at mubi.com/cos . You can also check out Consequence ’s full review of the film here . You can also follow The Story Behind the Song and rate and review on Apple Podcasts . Fans can also check out TSBTS merch -- including a killer poster and jigsaw puzzle -- available now at the Consequence Shop ! You can keep an eye on the Consequence Podcast Network for updates on all our series, and follow host Peter Csathy on Threads at @pcsathy and at Deep Cuts Media . This episode is presented by MUBI. Support The Story Behind the Song by checking out StubHub: https://stubhub.prf.hn/l/mVRZyZV Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

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The Story Behind the Song 's Peter Csathy is back to talk to legendary The Police drummer Stewart Copeland to talk about "Roxanne." Definitely known as "The Police Song," "Roxanne" is a song that changed the fortunes of the English rock band The Police . The song was written by lead singer and bassist Sting for their debut album Outlandos d'Amour , which celebrates its 45th anniversary this year. But it would not have found its rhythmic magic if Stewart Copeland hadn't reenvisioned the song's bossa nova and turned it into a reggae-rock anthem. Stewart Copeland also discusses his two recent grammies from DIVINE TIDES with Ricky Kej and the release of The Police's Police Deranged for Orchestra album, which learn more about here . Listen to the full conversation with The Police's Stewart Copeland about “Roxanne" and more in this episode. Then, make sure to follow The Story Behind the Song , and rate and review on Apple Podcasts . Fans can also check out the new TSBTS merch -- including a killer poster and jigsaw puzzle -- available now at the Consequence Shop or via the buy now buttons below! You can keep an eye on the Consequence Podcast Network for updates on all our series, and follow host Peter Csathy on Threads at @pcsathy and at Deep Cuts Media . Support The Story Behind the Song by checking out StubHub: https://stubhub.prf.hn/l/mVRZyZV Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

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This week, host Peter Csathy welcomes Salt-N-Pepa's Cheryl "Salt" James to The Story Behind the Song to break down their groundbreaking 1990 track "Let's Talk About Sex." Discover the song's provocative origins, designed with producer Hurby "Luv Bug" Azor to challenge radio censorship. Salt reveals how the track, meant to spark a necessary dialogue, was later transformed at the request of news anchor Peter Jennings into the powerful PSA "Let's Talk About AIDS." The conversation also explores Salt-N-Pepa's trailblazing journey, from working at Sears with other future stars to their meteoric rise to fame. Salt recounts becoming the first female rap act to go platinum and earning their title as the "First Ladies of Rap" while navigating the shock of global stardom. Looking forward, Salt shares her decision to step back from the road for her well-being but hints at a major tour in the near future. She reflects on the full-circle feeling of seeing their legacy celebrated with accolades like their Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction. Listen to Cheryl "Salt" James talk about “Let's Talk About Sex” and more. Then, make sure to follow The Story Behind the Song , and rate and review on Apple Podcasts . Fans can also check out the new TSBTS merch -- including a killer poster and jigsaw puzzle -- available now at the Consequence Shop or via the buy now buttons below! You can keep an eye on the Consequence Podcast Network for updates on all our series, and follow host Peter Csathy on Threads at @pcsathy and at Deep Cuts Media . Support The Story Behind the Song by checking out StubHub: https://stubhub.prf.hn/l/mVRZyZV Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

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Blondie are, without question, one of the most successful, iconic, and influential bands in rock and roll history. On this encore episode of The Story Behind the Song , listen to the band talk about their song "Rapture" and more. Inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame 15 years ago, the Debbie Harry -fronted group has sold over 40 million albums worldwide and continues to release new music. But the “rock and roll” label doesn’t do justice to the group’s genre-bending music. What started as a punk band in the mid-1970’s in New York City after Harry and guitarist Chris Stein broke off from their earlier band, The Stillettoes, Blondie (first called Angel and the Snake) always innovated, infusing pop, disco, new wave, reggae, and rap elements into their music. Which brings us to one of Blondie’s signature songs, the cleverly titled “Rapture." In 1981, the Autoamerican single became the first song featuring rapped vocals to top the US charts, and its accompanying video the first "rap" clip to appear on MTV. Stein and Harry penned the song after experiencing their first rap performance hosted by Fab 5 Freddy, who is prominently mentioned in the song's first rap line and appears in the video. Listen to Blondie talk about “Rapture” and more. Then, make sure to follow The Story Behind the Song , and rate and review on Apple Podcasts . Fans can also check out the new TSBTS merch -- including a killer poster and jigsaw puzzle -- available now at the Consequence Shop or via the buy now buttons below! You can keep an eye on the Consequence Podcast Network for updates on all our series, and follow host Peter Csathy on Threads at @pcsathy and at Deep Cuts Media . Support The Story Behind the Song by checking out StubHub: https://stubhub.prf.hn/l/mVRZyZV Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

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This week on The Story Behind the Song , host Peter Csathy welcomes Sublime drummer Bud Gaugh to dive into the story behind their classic 1997 track "Wrong Way." Discover the song's spontaneous, beer-fueled origins at Willie Nelson's Texas studio. Gaugh reveals how a casual conversation was transformed overnight by frontman Bradley Nowell into the iconic lyrics, and how the track was captured in just two takes—with the trombone player famously getting paid with a watch. The conversation also explores Sublime's gritty, organic creative process, fueled by their Long Beach friendships and experiences. Gaugh recounts the band's early struggles, the tragedy of Bradley Nowell's passing just before their breakout, and their powerful rebirth with Bradley's son, Jakob, highlighted by an impactful recent performance at Coachella. Looking forward, Bud shares his excitement for Sublime's future, including their first new album in decades. He describes the magical, full-circle experience of creating new music and touring with Jakob Nowell, bringing the band's story into a new era. Listen to Bud Gaugh talk about “Wrong Way” and more. Then, make sure to follow The Story Behind the Song , and rate and review on Apple Podcasts . Fans can also check out the new TSBTS merch -- including a killer poster and jigsaw puzzle -- available now at the Consequence Shop or via the buy now buttons below! You can keep an eye on the Consequence Podcast Network for updates on all our series, and follow host Peter Csathy on Threads at @pcsathy and at Deep Cuts Media . Support The Story Behind the Song by checking out StubHub: https://stubhub.prf.hn/l/mVRZyZV Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

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Don McLean earned the title of America's Troubadour with his iconic 1971 hit song "American Pie." This eight-and-a-half-minute folk rock track is considered a cultural touchstone in the annals of Americana, tracking the loss of innocence of the early rock and roll generation through oft-debated reference-rich lyrics about "the day the music died." Listen now. On this episode of The Story Behind the Song , McLean joins host Peter Csathy to talk about how it took 10 years to write "American Pie," the song's legacy, and more. Then make sure to like, review, and subscribe to TSBTS wherever you get podcasts for updates on all our new episodes. Listen to Don McLean for all this and more on your favorite podcast platform . Make sure to follow The Story Behind the Song , and rate and review on Apple Podcasts to show your support for our series. Fans of The Story Behind the Song can also check out our new merch for Season 2! Available now at the Consequence Shop , we have a killer new poster (framed and unframed) and a jigsaw puzzle (1,000 piece or 252 piece) featuring an original illustration referencing all the songs and artists from the first three years of the podcast. Grab yours now. You can also follow host Peter Csathy on Threads at @pcsathy and at Deep Cuts Media , and keep up with the Consequence Podcast Network for updates on all our shows. Support The Story Behind the Song by checking out StubHub: https://stubhub.prf.hn/l/mVRZyZV Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

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This week on The Story Behind the Song , host Peter Chatty welcomes the legendary Susanna Hoffs, singer, songwriter, and guitarist of the iconic 80s band, The Bangles. Hoffs takes us on a fascinating journey behind one of The Bangles' biggest hits, the 1989 power ballad, "Eternal Flame." Discover the surprising inspiration behind "Eternal Flame"—a pilgrimage to Elvis's Graceland, where The King's "eternal flame" was, ironically, extinguished. Hoffs shares how this serendipitous moment, combined with a touch of Spinal Tap humor, sparked the song's initial lyrics with Billy Steinberg and Tom Kelly, and how quickly the melody and lyrics came together in a spontaneous writing session. The conversation delves into the unique, highly democratic songwriting and selection process within The Bangles, where all four talented members contributed as writers, singers, and players. Hoffs discusses the challenges and evolution of this process, especially during the making of their 1988 album, Everything , and the pivotal role of producer Davit Kahne, who brought a fresh energy and individualized approach to recording. She also shares an inspiring story about her most recent, impactful performance experience at the BeachLife Festival, a moment that reignited her passion for connecting with fans live. Beyond music, Peter and Susanna explore her creative endeavors, including her recently published novel, "This Bird Has Flown," and the exciting news of its upcoming film adaptation. Hoffs shares insights into her lifelong love for storytelling, whether in songs, books, or films. Listen to Susanna Hoffs talk about “Eternal Flame” and more. Then, make sure to follow The Story Behind the Song , and rate and review on Apple Podcasts . Fans can also check out the new TSBTS merch -- including a killer poster and jigsaw puzzle -- available now at the Consequence Shop or via the buy now buttons below! You can keep an eye on the Consequence Podcast Network for updates on all our series, and follow host Peter Csathy on Threads at @pcsathy and at Deep Cuts Media . Support The Story Behind the Song by checking out StubHub: https://stubhub.prf.hn/l/mVRZyZV Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

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On this encore episode of The Story Behind the Song , The Killers frontman Brandon Flowers reflects on one of the band's earliest songs -- "All These Things That I've Done." Listen to Flowers' insight into the tune. Flowers chats about the song's spiritual meaning, explaining how it grapples with themes of guilt, faith, and forgiveness. Ultimately, it's the sonic representation of Flowers' struggle to balance his Mormon beliefs and his pursuit of rock 'n' roll. He then touches on the cut's influences, referencing bands like U2 and David bowie, and previews The Killers' Las Vegas residency . Listen to Brandon Flowers dive into "All These Things that I've Done" and more on your favorite podcast platform . Make sure to follow The Story Behind the Song , and rate and review on Apple Podcasts to show your support for our series. Fans of The Story Behind the Song can also check out our new merch for Season 2! Available now at the Consequence Shop , we have a killer new poster (framed and unframed) and a jigsaw puzzle (1,000 piece or 252 piece) featuring an original illustration referencing all the songs and artists from the first three years of the podcast. Grab yours now. You can also follow host Peter Csathy on Threads at @pcsathy and at Deep Cuts Media , and keep up with the Consequence Podcast Network for updates on all our shows. Support The Story Behind the Song by checking out StubHub: https://stubhub.prf.hn/l/mVRZyZV Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy