PODCAST · music
GenXplainers
by GenXplainers
Where we look at pop culture from a personal and generational perspective and examine how the music, movies and television of our formative years shaped our tastes and attitudes of GenerationX. Personal POVs and tories capture the time and contextualize the art of our youth. https://linktr.ee/genxplainers
Episodes
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Episode 337: Remembering Dolly Parton & Tim Curry
We just lost two cultural icons. Enormously talented artists who will be greatly missed also had a great impact on your GenXplainers hosts. Support the show Check out our videos on YouTube! GenXplainers Channel Season 1 Perfect Songs Season 2 Perfect Songs
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Episode 336: The Perfect Song - Miss World
This track is off Hole's second album, Live Through This. We discuss Courtney Love, the polarizing figure fronting the band, as well as the prejudices we held around her when we formed out opinions about the song at the time of it's release. Some didn't give this song a chance at the time. Now we...
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Episode 335: The Perfect Song - Sick of Myself
The GenXplainers panel is diving into some mid-90’s power pop/alternative rock. Released as a single in 1995, it blends power pop and distorted rock guitar to create an upbeat vibe to some darker lyrics. It is catchy and the panel love it. But is it “perfect”? Let us explain… NOTE: Matthew Sweet...
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Episode 334: Desert Island Discs - The Stone Roses
What records would you take to a desert island? We start our new GenXplainers series with a pick from Rand. Let's fill up that crate! Support the show Check out our videos on YouTube! GenXplainers Channel Season 1 Perfect Songs Season 2 Perfect Songs
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Episode 333: The Perfect Song - Do You Realize??
For this episode, we expand the GenXplainers panel to 5, with friends of the show Blanchard and Tony joining us. The song in question is from the alt/experimental/psychedelic group The Flaming Lips. Is it a love song? Is it a philosophical rumination. It is well-loved by many and the panel. But…
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Episode 332: The Perfect Song - Feel Good, Inc.
The GenXplainers check out a song from “virtual band” Gorillaz. From their album Demon Days, it has a funky bassline and an assist from legends De La Soul. But is it “perfect”? Let us explain… LINKS De La Soul on Feel Good, Inc. – @Bootleg Kev https://youtu.be/hYWr53cgreA?si=dpXFlGjy7hoagZGZ...
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Episode 331: Cover Stories - Mad World
Can a cover version surpass the original? The GenXplainers explore this question with a song originally recorded by Tears for Fears in 1981. Later covered by Michael Andrews and Gary Jules and featured in the film "Donnie Darko", it gained a whole new generation of fans. Does it's darker, more...
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Episode 330: The Perfect Song - Baba O'Riley
The GenXplainers tackles a track from The Who’s 1971 album “Who’s Next”. A standout in a group of songs from an abandoned rock opera, this classic is considered one of the best from a legendary rock band. But is it “perfect”? Let us explain… Support the show Check out our videos on YouTube!...
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Episode 329: 2026 Oscar Nominees - Best Picture, Part 2
Let's discuss the 2026 Best Picture nominees, part 2. Who will win "One Battle After Another" / "Sinners" race? Support the show Check out our videos on YouTube! GenXplainers Channel Season 1 Perfect Songs Season 2 Perfect Songs
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Episode 328: 2026 Oscar Nominees - Best Picture, Part 1
Let's discuss the 2026 Best Picture nominees. In part 1, we cover Bugonia, F1, Frankenstein, Hamnet, & Marty Supreme. *SPOILERS AHEAD* Support the show Check out our videos on YouTube! GenXplainers Channel Season 1 Perfect Songs Season 2 Perfect Songs
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Episode 327: The Perfect Song - Time After Time
The GenXplainers take on a song that almost didn't make it on a legendary artist's debut album. It showed a softer side to this quirky performer and won the hearts of your panelists. But is it "perfect?" Let us explain... Time After Time music video Cyndi Lauper & Patti Labelle live performance...
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Episode 326: Remembering Kenny Morris of Siouxsie & the Banshees
We remember the drummer on the 1st two Siouxsie & the Banshees albums, Kenny Morris. His playing style influenced many other post-punk drummers. An artist and filmmaker as well, he was a multi-talented who will be missed. LINKS John McKay interview Playground Twist video Support the show Check…
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Episode 325: The Perfect Song - American Girl
A rock legend. A timeless sound. We grew up listening to Tom Petty & the Heartbreakers' signature song. And as time went by, we watched it grow into a track that permeated pop culture and influenced later artists. But is it "perfect?" Let us explain... Check out our other videos...
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Episode 324: The Perfect Song FACE-OFF - ELO
We're putting two songs by Electric Light Orchestra head to head to decide which is "perfect-er". One's a rocker and one an opera. Both are bangers, but which one will come out on top? Let us explain... Support the show Check out our videos on YouTube! GenXplainers Channel Season 1 Perfect Songs...
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Episode 323: Remembering Rob Reiner
We talk about the career of Rob Reiner and the influence he had on popular culture. Links: Reiner and Ephron - https://youtu.be/q5-j7K8Mbzk?si=G7sFMM6lkfrGb3vQ #robreiner Support the show Check out our videos on YouTube! GenXplainers Channel Season 1 Perfect Songs Season 2 Perfect Songs
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Episode 322: The Perfect Song - San Andreas Fault
The GenXplainers podcast takes a listen to a song from former 10,000 Maniacs front-woman Natalie Merchant. The 1st track on her debut solo album showcases her beautiful vocals and subtle musical arrangement. But is it "perfect"? Let us explain... #perfectsong #tigerlily Support the show Check out...
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Episode 321: The Perfect Song - Add It Up
Discovered by members of the Pretenders, this lo-fi trio brought a new sound into the mainstream. Sometimes described as "folk-punk" it came at just the right time to get the attention of your GenXplainers panel. This song from their 1983 debut album is a prime example of that unique sound. But…
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Episode 320: The Perfect Song - You're All I Need to Get By
The GenXplainers panel looks at a classic R&B track by Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell. This song of love and devotion has the fantastic vocals and arrangement we've come to expect. But is it "perfect"? Let us explain... #perfectsong #marvingaye #tammiterrell Support the show Check out our videos…
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Episode 319: Rembering Diane Keaton
The wonderful Diane Keaton passed away recently so the GenXplainers panelists got together to discuss the multi-talented actress' career and impact pop culture. An impact not limited to the film world, but also the world of fashion. Independent, entertaining, iconic. She will be missed....
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Episode 318: The Perfect Song - My Backwards Walk
The GenXplainers podcast take on an early track from indie band Frightened Rabbit. It has heartfelt lyrics and builds in intensity as it goes, which the panel loves. However, a surprise percussive layer at the end causes some controversy. It is certainly pleasing in general. But is it "perfect?…
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Episode 317: The Perfect Song - The Model
Matt's electronic/synth-pop song candidates have not fared well in the past. Sweet Dreams by Eurythmics & Gary Numan’s Cars were shot down mercilessly. So, this time, he is going right to the source. The GenXplainers Podcast talks about a seminal track from electronic music pioneers Kraftwerk.…
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Episode 316: The Perfect Song - Born to Run
Time for another GenXplainers high school reunion episode. This time we talk about a classic rock tune that was a hit years before we were in high school. We all knew it, though. Everybody did. It was the first major hit from an artist dubbed "the future of rock and roll". The song definitely...
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Episode 315: The Perfect Song - Here It Is Tomorrow
The GenXplainers panel judge a song by the best band you never heard of, Game Theory. Scott Miller with the help of producer Mitch Easter produced a power pop masterpiece with amazing lyrics. But is it "perfect"? Let us explain... Scott Miller1986 interview #perfectsong #gametheory #scottmiller...
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Episode 314: Revisionist Filmography - Jaws at 50
"Jaws" is 50 years old. It has been re-released and remastered for IMAX. The GenXplainers podcast recounts their experience with this classic film that sparked a revolution in the movie industry and launched the career of Steven Spielberg. Why is this film still considered one of the best movies...
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Episode 313: The Perfect Song - A New England
Stripped down and immediate, this song from Billy Bragg's first album was one of his earliest hits. His songs generally fall into two categories, very political or highly personal and this one falls into the latter, but with a nod to the former. A bold and fearless voice of protest for over 40...
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Episode 312: The Perfect Song - The Killing Moon
In another special High School Reunion episode of the GenXplainers podcast, we discuss a 1984 hit from Echo & the Bunnymen. Front man Ian McCulloch has described it as "the greatest song ever written". But is it "perfect? Let us explain... Ian McCulloch quote. NME Song Stories clip.…
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Episode 311: The Perfect Song - Love My Way
It's a special High School Reunion episode of the GenXplainers Podcast. Today, some proud Prospect Panthers talk about a 1982 song from the Psychedelic Furs. Produced by Todd Rundgren, this song was a hit that got regular airplay on MTV back when they played music videos. But is it "perfect?? Let...
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Episode 310: Remembering Ozzy Osbourne
Today, in a special episode, the GenXplainers podcast remember the late great Ozzy Osbourne. A legendary performer who left an indelible mark on heavy metal and pop culture. RIP #ozzyosbourne #blacksabbath Support the show Check out our videos on YouTube! GenXplainers Channel Season 1 Perfect…
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Episode 309: Great Soundtracks, Part 1
The GenXplainers panel discuss their favorite soundtrack albums (not music scores). Part 1 of 2. Part 2 might be for our Patreon members only. We'll see. #soundtrack #singles #pulpfiction #goodfellas #clueless https://www.linktr.ee/genxplainers Support the show Check out our videos on YouTube!...
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Episode 308: The Perfect Song - Tiny Dancer
This week the GenXplainers look for perfection in an Elton John song whose lyrics recount Bernie Taupin’s relationship with an 80’s sitcom star known for his roles on “Taxi” and “Who’s the Boss”. Oh, wait, that doesn’t sound right. But is it “perfect”? Let us explain… Rick Beato breakdown here...
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Episode 307: The Perfect Song - Dream On
The GenXplainers panel takes a listen to a early 70's classic from one of rock's biggest acts. It is often mentioned in lists of top rock ballads of all time and we certainly enjoy it. But is it "perfect"? Let us explain... #perfectsong #aerosmith #dreamon Support the show Check out our videos on...
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Episode 306: What Makes a Great Movie Soundtrack?
The GenXplainers panel talk about what makes a great movie soundtrack ahead of our upcoming episode where we name our personal favorites. Let us explain... #soundtracks #moviemusic Support the show Check out our videos on YouTube! GenXplainers Channel Season 1 Perfect Songs Season 2 Perfect Songs
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Episode 305: The Perfect Song - Breaking the Law
The GenXplainers Podcast looks back at a 1980 Heavy Metal classic. It is extremely catchy and lyrically deeper than expected. But is it "perfect"? Let us explain... #perfectsong #judaspriest #robhalford Support the show Check out our videos on YouTube! GenXplainers Channel Season 1 Perfect Songs...
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Episode 304: The Perfect Song - Live to Tell
Madonna had mostly been known for upbeat dance his when this song released. From her second album "True Blue", it showed a maturity and depth not seen up to that point. Emotional, dark and lyrically mysterious, this track held some surprises for the listener. Your GenXplainers panel are fans. But...
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Episode 303: The Perfect Song - One Way or Another
We love Blondie! And the GenXplainers podcast looks at one of their biggest hits. It was inspired by a stalker and a 60's surf guitar band. But is it "perfect"? Let us explain... #perfectsong #blondie #onewayoranother Support the show Check out our videos on YouTube! GenXplainers Channel Season 1...
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Episode 302: The Perfect Song - Natural's Not in It
The GenXplainers podcast ponders the perfection of a song from post-punk pioneers. Gang of Four's debut album had a number of great songs and this one is no exception. Punchy and propulsive with sharp, buzzy guitar, funky bass and a unique beat, this track is a favorite of the panel. But is it...
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Episode 301: Latchkey TV - Monty Python's Flying Circus
Season 3 of the GenXplainers podcast begins with a look at the television of our youth Monty Python's Flying Circus aired on our local PBS station, and was one of the cornerstones of our senses of humor. Absurd and wacky but also smart and relevant, it paved the way for late shows like SNL and…
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Episode 247: The Perfect Song - Don't Fear the Reaper
The GenXplainers have a fever! And the only prescription is more cowbell! So we taking a look at a 1989 hit by Blue Öyster Cult that got a new lease on life in 2000 when it was featured in a classic SNL sketch. It a driving tune with a smooth vocal and catchy guitar riff. But is it "perfect"? Let...
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Episode 246: The Perfect Song - Fight the Power
A classic rap tune from the GenXplainers archive, this one was controversial at the time of release. Perhaps not so shocking today but sadly still relevant, it has a sound that our panelists love. But is it "perfect?" Let us explain... #perfectsong #publicenemy #fightthepower Support the show…
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Episode 245: Old Dogs, New Tracks - More 2024 Albums (BONUS EPISODE)
While the GenXplainers podcast is on hiatus between Season 2 and Season 3, we are publishing episodes previously available only on Patreon or from the GenXplainers unpublished episode archives. Look for brand new Season 3 episodes in the coming weeks. --------- Let's talk about some other notable...
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Episode 244: The Acting Roles of Albert Brooks (BONUS EPISODE)
While the GenXplainers podcast is on hiatus between Season 2 and Season 3, we are publishing episodes previously available only on Patreon or from the GenXplainers unpublished episode archives. Look for brand new Season 3 episodes in the coming weeks. --------- Let's talk about some of the acting...
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Episode 243: The Perfect-est Song - Season 2 Tournament Bracket
As we wrap up season 2 of the GenXplainers Podcast, we do our annual roundup of the season's "perfect" songs. Sixteen contenders face off tournament bracket-style until one song comes out on top. Last season, Kate Bush's "Running Up That Hill" took the title. Who will make the cut this year and...
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Episode 242: The Perfect Song - 99 Problems
The GenXplainers podcast hits a 2004 song by Shawn Carter, aka Beyoncè’s husband. Jay-Z brings phenomenal lyrical storytelling while Rick Rubin infuses some old-school rap & rock energy into this now-classic hit song. But is it “perfect”? Let us explain… https://linktr.ee/genxplainers Links…
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Episode 241: The Perfect Song - Dog Days Are Over
The GenXplainers podcast hits a song from 2008 that features a heavy beat, stops & starts, and a beautiful lead vocal. Your panel loves a song that builds and this one certainly does. But is it “perfect”? Let us explain… https://linktr.ee/genxplainers Florence visits a fan in hospital:...
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Episode 240: The Perfect Song - Tom Sawyer
The GenXplainers podcast again welcomes special guest Blanchard Ryan. You know her from the films “Open Water”, “Beerfest” and the series “Orange is the New Black” among others. And this week she will join in the discussion aboot a huge hit from her countrymen Rush. We agree on its virtuoso...
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Episode 239: 2025 Oscar Nominees
Better late than never, they say. Here is our podcast discussing the 2025 Oscar nominees for Best Picture. You've already forgotten what they are, haven't you? Enjoy! linktr.ee/genxplainers Support the show Check out our videos on YouTube! GenXplainers Channel Season 1 Perfect Songs Season 2...
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Episode 238: The Perfect Song - Carry on Wayward Son
The GenXplainers podcast welcomes special guest Blanchard Ryan. You know her from the films “Open Water”, “Beerfest” and the series “Orange is the New Black” among others. And this week she is bringing a song by 70’s superstars Kansas. Arguably their biggest song, it is a proggy but catchy tune…
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Episode 237: The Perfect BREAKUP Song - Valentine's Day 2025
Happy Valentine’s Day from the GenXplainers Podcast! Last year we picked some perfect love songs to talk about and we agreed on “This Must Be the Place” by Talking Heads as the most perfect. This year we each brought a song about the other side of love: breakups, unhealthy obsession, and toxic...
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Episode 236: The Perfect Song - In the Fade
This week we look at a song nominated by our guest Steve. It is a track from the major label debut of Queens of the Stone Age and features vocals from Mark Lanegan. We could agree that is was a fine song. But is it "perfect"? Let us explain... #perfectsong #qotsa Support the show Check out our...
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Episode 235: The Perfect Song - Under Pressure
A collaboration of two hugely influential artists, this song hit big with the help of a memorable music video and amazing vocal performances. And samples from it were used in another huge hit, about which your panel has some opinions. It is a classic for sure. But is it “perfect“? Let us explain…...
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
Where we look at pop culture from a personal and generational perspective and examine how the music, movies and television of our formative years shaped our tastes and attitudes of GenerationX. Personal POVs and tories capture the time and contextualize the art of our youth.
https://linktr.ee/genxplainers
HOSTED BY
GenXplainers
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many episodes does GenXplainers have?
GenXplainers currently has 136 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.
What is GenXplainers about?
Where we look at pop culture from a personal and generational perspective and examine how the music, movies and television of our formative years shaped our tastes and attitudes of GenerationX. Personal POVs and tories capture the time and contextualize the art of our youth....
How often does GenXplainers release new episodes?
GenXplainers publishes regularly with 136 episodes available. Check the episode list for the typical release schedule.
Where can I listen to GenXplainers?
You can listen to GenXplainers on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.
Who hosts GenXplainers?
GenXplainers is created and hosted by GenXplainers.
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