Behind The Song: Classic Rock Chronicles

How did Peter Frampton go from an industry underdog to an absolute stadium-packing global phenomenon? In the new episode of Behind The Song, Janda tracks the incredible "grind-it-out" story behind the 1976 double-album smash, Frampton Comes Alive! Did you know there was a real-life muse behind “Baby I Love Your Way,” one of the hit songs he wrote in a single day while sitting on a beach in the Bahamas? Listen to the story in this episode! 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 with Janda Lane, step inside Freddie Mercury’s London mansion to meet the pampered clowder of ten felines who truly ruled his world. From mandatory long-distance phone calls to check in while Queen was on the road to the song inspired by his favorite calico, Delilah, Mercury truly went above and beyond typical pet care. In fact, he was so loyal to his beloved companions that he put it in his will that they would inherit his sanctuary, long after the music stopped. 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, Janda shares the incredible story behind how the late, great “saxophone colossus” Sonny Rollins came to record the sax solo on the Rolling Stones hit, “Waiting On A Friend.” Following the passing of the jazz legend at age 95, this awesome recording remains as proof that when talented musicians respect each other, the lines between genres can completely melt away.  As Mick Jagger said: "He just blew his horn and it was beautiful."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 takes a closer look into Pete Townshend’s “Let My Love Open The Door,” just one of many songs that he consistently wrote with his spiritual guru in mind. It’s a deep dive into the how Townshend’s decades-long devotion to Meher Baba completely colored his creative output and shifted his focus to search for the divine. From “Baba O’Riley” to “The Seeker” and more, take a listen to how he to put the guru between the notes of his songs. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Janda is joined by Behind The Song podcast producer Christian Lane (her husband!) for a conversation about what makes the Grateful Dead continue to compel fans to “get on the bus,” more than 60 years after they played their first concert. The conversation explores the various entry points into the band's world and the philosophy of fun outlined by Jerry Garcia that still resonates with DeadHeads both new and old today. 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 revisits Arlo Guthrie’s “Alice’s Restaurant Massacree.” Listen in on how a ridiculous (and hilariously true) littering incident became an 18 minute Thanksgiving classic for generations of fans! See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Stevie Nicks wrote the hit "Dreams" in about 10 minutes as the drama with Lindsey Buckingham was peaking during the Rumours sessions. It’s the only Fleetwood Mac song to ever go to #1 when it was released, and it keeps entering the charts as the decades go on! Get into this hit that just won’t quit in this episode of the Behind The Song podcast with Janda Lane. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

You won't believe the wild second careers some of your favorite musicians found! From Jeff "Skunk" Baxter (Doobie Brothers/Steely Dan) becoming a legit missile defense consultant to The Smashing Pumpkins' Billy Corgan running the National Wrestling Association, join Janda as she dives into the most surprising second acts in rock 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.

The Grateful Dead’s desire to create the best sound for their audience led to the construction of the legendary Wall Of Sound, a sound amplification system that grew to enormous proportions with one goal in mind: to make their live concerts loud, but clear. It was one of the many technical innovations that sprung out of the Grateful Dead’s inner circle, and it impacted all of live music as we hear it today. In the new bonus episode of the Behind The Song podcast, listen in as Janda chats with New York Times Best-Selling author Brian Anderson about the fascinating ways The Grateful Dead were true innovators as they discuss his page-turning book “Loud and Clear: The Grateful Dead’s Wall of Sound and the Quest for Audio Perfection.” See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

It took twelve albums, but 1983's "That's All" finally launched Genesis into the Billboard Hot 100 Top 10.This episode of the Behind The Song podcast dives into the single that cemented the Phil Collins, Tony Banks, and Mike Rutherford lineup as the band's most commercially successful era. Hear how this hit transformed them from progressive pioneers to chart-topping superstars, kickstarting a run of seven Top 10 hits in the 80’s.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 Behind The Song, take a journey with Janda Lane into songs where the setting is everything. From the powerful metaphors in "Hotel California" to the real memories behind "Strawberry Fields Forever," these songs are always worth a trip! See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

When Geddy Lee and Alex Lifeson of Rush surprised everyone and announced their 2026 celebrating 50 years of Rush’s music, Anika Nilles was named to join them behind the drumkit. This led to lots of Rush fans immediately wondering, who is Anika Nilles? Find out about the powerhouse drummer who landed the gig of a lifetime in this bonus episode of the Behind The Song podcast with Janda Lane.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Bruce Springsteen was only 24 when he wrote the lyrics to "Born To Run." He had two critically-acclaimed albums but was facing a make-or-break moment with the record label. Then came his first Top 40 hit in 1975 and that changed everything.Get into the story of the song that saved his career in the new episode of the Behind The Song podcast with Janda Lane.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Janda Lane kicks off Rocktober with an episode about the genius of some of Classic Rock’s Super Producers.  Get into the stories of the legends who knew exactly what to do with the talent of bands like The Beatles, Bruce Springsteen, Tom Petty, AC/DC, and Def Leppard and shaped their music into the soundtrack of our lives. Listen to this 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.

Did you know that only one guest vocalist ever appeared on a Led Zeppelin studio album? It was the incredible Sandy Denny, the voice behind “The Battle of Evermore.” This cemented her place in rock history, but her life was cut short at just 31 years old after a tragic - and weird- accident. Get into her story in the new bonus episode of the Behind The Song podcast with Janda Lane. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The story behind one of Alice In Chains' biggest hits is deeply personal. “Rooster,” written by Jerry Cantrell, was what he imagined his father's experience in the Vietnam War was like, and the song was so spot-on, his dad told him he "hit the nail on the head."Listen to the full story of "Rooster" on the new episode of the Behind The Song podcast with Janda Lane. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Once upon a time in Hollywood, David Bowie made Axl Rose so mad that it nearly caused a brawl in the middle of the street! Get into the story of this very rock ‘n roll moment 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.

You're stranded on a desert island and can only bring three songs. What are you choosing?Would you pick something to keep your spirits high, or a song that makes you reflect on life? It’s an impossible task to pick just three, but hear what Janda and her boss, WDRV Program Director Keith Hastings, would choose 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.

In the new episode of the Behind The Song podcast, Janda dives into the surprising inspiration behind Creedence Clearwater Revival’s “Lookin’ Out My Back Door.” Find out how one of CCR’s most trippy tunes actually has a connection to a book by Dr. Seuss!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 looks back on the remarkable career of the late Bobby Whitlock and his contributions to some of rock's greatest albums. Take a listen and discover how this soulman’s talent made a huge impact on Layla and other Assorted Love Songs by Derek & The Dominos, George Harrison’s All Things Must Pass, and Exile On Main Street by The Rolling Stones! 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, dig in to the story of Coco Schwab, the behind-the-scenes assistant David Bowie credited with saving his life. Together until the very end, their friendship was a lifeline for Bowie for over 46 years, and he even wrote a song specifically for her. Get into it in this episode!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

It all started with a "Photograph." Def Leppard’s first smash hit kicked off their path to the top and had fans wondering who the song was about, thanks to its music video featuring a Marilyn Monroe lookalike. So what’s the story behind this classic tune? Get into it on this 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.

When Ozzy Osbourne passed away, on July 22, 2025, it was a sad day for rock ‘n roll.  Listen in on this bonus episode of the Behind The Song podcast as Janda and Adam Reader, The Professor of Rock, share their conversation grappling with the loss of the legendary “Prince of Darkness." Take a look back on why his music with Black Sabbath, his solo work, and his persona will remain iconic for generations to come.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 Janda's Behind The Song podcast, listen in on the chat about Tom Petty's particular gift for writing some of the most cutting lyrics in classic rock. From "Change Of Heart" to "I Need To Know," you're gonna get it! See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Songs can transport us, and for Stevie Nicks, "Gypsy" is a powerful portal to her past. Join Janda on this episode of Behind The Song as she unpacks this unforgettable Fleetwood Mac hit, from its origins as a raw reflection on Nicks’ early days with Lindsey Buckingham, to its deeper meaning as a heartfelt remembrance of her late friend, Robin Snyder Anderson.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

From Clapton to Aerosmith...listen in on this chat about specific cover songs from the Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band movie, and some of the artists who have had big hits covering J. J. Cale songs.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Rosanna, Beth, Mary Anne, Michelle....join Janda on a fun musical list of some of classic rock's songs titled after girls' names 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.

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  🎵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, 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 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.

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/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.