Shows / Professor of Rock

Professor of Rock
The ultimate rock music history podcast for fans of the greatest era of music. If you’ve ever wondered about the true stories behind your favorite songs, or wanted to hear directly from the legends who made them, Professor of Rock is your new go-to podcast. Hosted by music historian and superfan Adam Reader, this show brings the golden era of music back to life with exclusive interviews, behind-the-scenes stories, and deep dives into the songs that shaped our lives. This podcast uncovers how…
Episodes
Professor of RockU2’s Rise in the 80s: From Boy to The Joshua Tree
A celebration of U2: I remember buying U2 the Joshua Tree with my own money as a kid. This album didn't get tired after a month. It was an album with layers…
Professor of RockKenny Loggins on His Epic 1982 Duet with Steve Perry “Don’t Fight It”
Including exclusive commentary from Kenny Loggins: Today We’re introducing a new show that’ we’ll be doing from time to time. called Dos- the greatest duets of…
Professor of RockMike Peters of The Alarm on the Meaning Behind the 1985 Anthem “Strength”
Three-time cancer survivor and fiery frontman, Mike Peters of the Alarm relates the story behind his powerful 1985 battle cry anthem “Strength”.and what the…
Professor of RockDon Henley’s Solo Journey After The Eagles: From “Dirty Laundry” to “The Heart of the Matter”
When the Eagles broke up in the early 80s, Don Henley created the perfect solo career from Dirty Laundry to the Boys of Summer to The Heart of the Matter and…
Professor of RockMike Ness of Social Distortion on Covering Johnny Cash’s “Ring of Fire”
Punk poet, Mike Ness of Social Distortion discusses his love for Johnny Cash with Professor of Rock. He tells the story behind covering the Man in Black's…
Professor of RockToto’s Steve Lukather and David Paich on Recording Michael Jackson’s Thriller
Steve Lukather and David Paich of Toto tell the hilarious story of working on the biggest selling album in the history of this planet, Michael Jackson’s…
Professor of Rock5 Underrated 90s Songs Featuring Richard Marx, The Outfield, and More
Featuring exclusive commentary from Grammy Winner Richard Marx and Tony Lewis from the Outfield presenting 5 songs from the 90s that haven't been given their…
Professor of RockDepeche Mode’s Tumultuous and Triumphant Journey Through the 90s
Musically, the 90s were a very fruitful decade for Depeche Mode. In 1990, they truly conquered America with Violator which sold 4.5 million copies in the US…
Professor of RockHow Bon Jovi Rose to Fame with Anthems of Hope and Resilience
The thing about Jon Bon Jovi and his incredible band is the music they've created has always got your back. From "Livin' On A Prayer" and "You Give Love a Bad…
Professor of RockHeart's Ann Wilson on Covering Stairway to Heaven
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Professor of RockWhy The Cure’s “Just Like Heaven” Is the Perfect 80s Pop Song
In the 80s, many new wave bands hit the top spot on the charts, Duran Duran, Berlin, the Human League, Aha, Blondie Culture Club etc. But how The Cure never…
Professor of RockHow Duran Duran Blended Style and Substance to Rule the 80s and Beyond
Duran Duran were undeniable pin-up idols. Teenage girls plastered their walls with pictures of each member of the band for sure, but, the music of Duran Duran…
Professor of RockCelebrating Little Richard: The Founding Father of Rock, Soul, and Funk
Little Richard was a trailblazer that boldly set the standard for rock vitality. He was THEE pioneer of soul & funk, and, arguably, the first rhythm and blues…
Professor of RockSammy Hagar on Van Halen’s 1988 Hit “When It’s Love”
The Red Rocker, Sammy Hagar tells the story of Van Halen’s 1988 top 5 hit: “When it’s Love" from their magnificent album 0U812. The song was a #1 hit on the…
Professor of Rock5 Forgotten 80s Songs Featuring Rick Springfield, Thompson Twins, Loverboy & More (Vol. 3)
Featuring exclusive commentary from Rick Springfield, Thompson Twins' Tom Bailey, and Loverboy frontman, Mike Reno, presenting 5 songs from the 80s that…
Professor of RockLita Ford on the Runaways’ Punk Rock Anthem “Cherry Bomb”
Lita Ford who played lead guitar in the all female band, the Runaways shares the story behind the Runaway's signature song “Cherry Bomb” written by Joan Jett…
Professor of RockWhat Made The Cars Stand Out in the New Wave Era
The Cars were different from the guitar-oriented rock bands of the late 70s, because they incorporated many different styles to make their music stand out-…
Professor of RockJim Peterik on Survivor and the Vocal Power Behind Their 80s Rock Anthems
Featuring exclusive commentary by JIM PETERIK, formerly of Survivor, INTRODUCING A new segment called VOX. Where we celebrate a great vocalist from the rock…
Professor of Rock5 Overlooked 80s Songs Featuring Hall & Oates, The Church, and More (Vol. 2)
Featuring exclusive commentary from John Oates of Hall and Oates and Steve Kilbey of the Church, presenting 5 songs from the 80s that haven't been given their…
Professor of RockWhy Brenda Russell’s “Piano in the Dark” Deserved to Be a #1 Hit
Have you ever listened to an entire song with your eyes closed, and let the theater of your mind create an image, or an ambiance? I want you to try this while…
Professor of RockRemembering Bill Withers: The Voice of Soulful Simplicity and Grace
Bill’s distinguished baritone was an instrument of grace & charisma that gave a special relatability to his music. When you listen to Bill sing, you felt like…
Professor of RockHow Depeche Mode Became Post-Punk Pioneers with “People Are People” and Beyond
The First Depeche Mode song that I heard was People are People in 1984. Mostly because it was a #13 hit and I listened to Casey Kasem’s American top 40…
Professor of RockWhatever Happened to Greatest Hits Albums? A Look at a Lost Music Staple
Today I'm starting a new segment that I call Records of a Lost Art. Where we'll discuss a song or album that is truly under appreciated or even a concept or…
Professor of RockBehind the Biggest Hit Songs of 1990: Janet Jackson, Vanilla Ice, Bon Jovi & More
The stories behind the 1990 Hot 100 #1 Hits, featuring exclusive interview clips from Vanilla Ice and Janet Jackson producer Jimmy Jam. The background of the…
Professor of RockThe 80s New Wave Hit That Deserved to Be #1: Depeche Mode, OMD, The Cure & More
There were so many great 80s New Wave singles from Depeche Mode, Yaz, The Smiths, New Order, The Cure, Thompson Twins, OMD, and more. What New Wave song…
Professor of RockCelebrating Donna Summer’s Influence Across Disco, Pop, and Beyond
Celebrating the power of Summer, Donna Summer, one of the most influential artists of any era and my Top 5 Donna Summer Songs. Many know her as the Queen of…
Professor of RockHow Music Heals: Brian Wilson, Carlos Santana, Joe Elliott & More on the Power of Song
Artists Brian Wilson, Carlos Santana, Neal Schon of Journey, Joe Elliott of Def Leppard, Ann Willson of Heart, Brendon Urie of Panic! at the Disco, Johnny…
Professor of RockHonoring Kenny Rogers: The Story Behind His Greatest Songs
A tribute to the Gambler, Kenny Rogers, with insight from our interview with him on some of his greatest songs. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit…
Professor of RockInspiration Behind the 1985 #1 Hits
Celebrating 1985 Featuring Mr. Mister singer Richard Page on Broken Wings, Reo Speedwagon singer Kevin Cronin on Can't Fight This Feeling, as well as Sussudio…
Professor of RockWho are the Beatles of the 80s?
Hey Music Junkies Professor of Rock here with our latest edition of POP FIX where we focus on the greatest artists and songs of all time. Learn more about your…
Professor of RockGladys Knight, The Empress of Soul
Hey Music Junkies this week Professor of Rock celebrates the genius of Gladys Knight with additional guest commentary from Legends and Grammy winners: Johnny…
Professor of RockInto The Night by Benny Mardones
This week we are launching a new segment of Pop Fix called, Number One in Our Hearts... Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices…
Professor of RockThe Genesis of Phil Collins
This week we on Pop Fix we reflect on one of the most prolific hit songwriters. His music had an unprecedented impact on our music community. In this episode…
Professor of RockA Tribute to Neil Peart
Hey Music Junkies, Professor of Rock here with another edition of Pop Fix where we celebrate the greatest artists and songs of all time; Please subscribe and…
Professor of RockBrad Delp Is Criminally Underrated
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Professor of RockThis one's for The Fans....THANK YOU
From all of us here at Professor of Rock, thank you. Thank you for supporting our channel, thank you for helping us keep this great music alive, thank you for…
Professor of Rock3 Essential Dan Fogelberg Songs and Why His Voice Still Resonates
Hey There Music Junkies, The Professor of Rock here with your latest Pop Fix. This week we drop the needle on 3 songs from Dan Fogelberg. In my opinion Dan…
Professor of RockWhy Huey Lewis Deserves More Credit as an 80s Music Icon
Hey Music Junkies, the Professor of Rock here with your latest Pop Fix. Let's face it, the 80's will always be one of our favorite decades. What was so special…
Professor of RockJosie Dunne: Exploring Her Lyrics, Albums, and Artistic Inspiration
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Professor of RockWhy Mike Ness Carries the Legacy of Johnny Cash
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Professor of RockThree Songs That Snuck Up and Blew Me Away
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Professor of RockThe Top 3 Songs from Movies
This week on The Professor of Rock we're going in-depth on movies that nailed it with their music selection. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit…
Professor of RockThe Rolling Stones or The Beatles, Choose one
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Professor of RockPat Leonard on Madonna's Like A Prayer
From the top of the Billboard Hot 100, Patrick Leonard and Madonna's song Like A Prayer graced its loyal followers for 3 weeks in the US. This song was well…
Professor of RockThe Doobie Brothers on The Story Behind Long Train Running
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Professor of RockKurt Cobain - An Alternative Rock Hero
"They laugh at me because I'm different. I laugh at them because they're all the same." - Kurt Cobain Learn more about your ad choices. Visit…
Professor of RockRoger McGuinn Before The Byrds
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Professor of RockThe origins of Jason Mraz
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Professor of RockMy Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Picks
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Professor of RockTessa Violet | DEEP DIVE
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Professor of Rock5 (Forgotten) 80s Songs You HAVE to hear
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Professor of RockHonoring James Ingram: The Soulful Voice Behind “Just Once” and “Somewhere Out There”
On January 29, 2019, we lost James Ingram to the ravages of brain cancer. He was a true master of gospel and soul. Trying to recount his many hits and high…
Professor of RockTop Artist Comeback Stories of ALL Time
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Professor of RockWho is the Professor of Rock?
Whether you're looking for inspiration for your next Album, have some questions about your favorite Artist or have an itch for Nostalgia, the Professor of Rock…
Professor of RockTodays Music Will Be Forgotten
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Professor of RockBest 80's Cheating Songs
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Professor of Rock“Of A Lifetime” (live) by Journey Through Time
Neal Schon and Journey Through Time (Gregg Rolie, Marco Mendoza, Deen Castronovo, John Varn) played 32 classic songs to benefit the victims of the North Bay…
Professor of RockNeal Schon & Journey, honored by legends & stars for the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame
Neal Schon and Steve Perry of Journey are honored by numerous legends and stars including Carlos Santana, Steve Lukather of Toto, Sammy Hagar, Steve Vai and…
Professor of RockNeal Schon of Journey plays National Anthem
Journey Founder and Guitarist Neal Schon gives a rousing rendition of our National Anthem at America's largest freedom festival, the Stadium of Fire. Enjoy the…
Professor of RockProfessor of Rock | Journey Plays to Record Breaking Crowd at Indy 500
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