Brian Jones: The Musician and The Myth
The story of Brian Jones has long been focused on his troubled demise. But his contributions to the early Stones are worth another listen.
The One-Hit-Wonder File: “96 Tears”
That distinctive organ riff helped make “96 Tears” a classic hit. And its appeal wasn’t lost on other artists, including The Ramones and Aretha.
The Single that Broke the Beatles in America
There are many reasons why “I Want to Hold Your Hand” was The Beatles’ first American smash. Dig into what makes the record irresistible.
Big Star: An Appreciation
All three of Big Star’s albums made Rolling Stone’s list of the “Greatest Albums of All Time.” No wonder artists from REM to the Posies cite the band as a major influence.
The First Take Is The Deepest: Demos Turned Hits
Sometimes, those rough “demo” tapes of a song hold just the right ingredients to be a hit — and nothing further needs to be done.