Why Is This So Hard For You?

Episode 140 gets smooth, sophisticated, and then deeply questionable as Curtis and Jonathan move from polished West Coast AOR into expansive jazz atmosphere before the category songs start raising eyebrows.Curtis opens with Bill Champlin, bringing soulful vocals, studio-musician polish, and that sweet spot where soft rock, yacht rock, and blue-eyed soul all start sharing the same expensive microphone. Jonathan follows with Pat Metheny and Lyle Mays, adding lyrical jazz fusion, spacious textures, and the kind of instrumental beauty that makes you stare thoughtfully out a window even if you are just sitting in traffic.For the category songs, Curtis brings There Should Have Been An Intervention with Frank Sinatra and Bono, a pairing that feels like someone should have gently stepped between the legends and the recording booth. Jonathan then introduces I See What You Did There with Dave Barnes, spotlighting a song packed with pop music references and clever little lyrical winks.Champlin soul, Metheny/Mays elegance, Sinatra/Bono confusion, and Dave Barnes wordplay—Episode 140 is smooth, smart, and just weird enough to keep everyone honest.Curtis Gross is a self-employed video editor.Jonathan Workman is an adult learning consultant based in Wichita, KS.---Make sure you are subscribed to Why Is This So Hard For You. Type Why Is This So Hard For You in your podcast provider, hit that subscription button, and leave us a five-star review. This will make it easier for other podcast listeners to find the podcast.---The intro music is the first 30 seconds of the Ornette Coleman tune "Song X" fed into AI software that attempts to output the song to a solo piano transcription. The outro music is the first 30 seconds of Sonny Rollins' version of the tune "St. Thomas" fed into the same software.

Episode 139 moves from Southern rock atmosphere into silky adult-contemporary sophistication before the category songs take a hard turn into overplayed-radio exhaustion and late-’80s redemption.Jonathan opens with Atlanta Rhythm Section, bringing melodic classic rock, polished Southern groove, and the kind of overlooked album-cut energy that fits perfectly in the deep cuts lane. Curtis follows with Al Jarreau, adding warm vocals, smooth jazz-pop elegance, and enough musical sophistication to remind everyone that “easy listening” does not mean “easy to sing.”For the category songs, Jonathan brings Burnt To A Crisp with The Righteous Brothers, revisiting a legendary record that has been played, covered, re-played, re-covered, and emotionally slow-danced into dust. Curtis then brings Remember This One Instead with Cutting Crew, making the case that there is more to the band than the one massive hit everyone immediately thinks of.Southern polish, Jarreau-level vocal class, a gloriously overcooked classic, and a better Cutting Crew conversation—Episode 139 is smooth, familiar, and just roasted enough.Curtis Gross is a self-employed video editor.Jonathan Workman is an adult learning consultant based in Wichita, KS.---Make sure you are subscribed to Why Is This So Hard For You. Type Why Is This So Hard For You in your podcast provider, hit that subscription button, and leave us a five-star review. This will make it easier for other podcast listeners to find the podcast.---The intro music is the first 30 seconds of the Ornette Coleman tune "Song X" fed into AI software that attempts to output the song to a solo piano transcription. The outro music is the first 30 seconds of Sonny Rollins' version of the tune "St. Thomas" fed into the same software.

Episode 138 brings the horns, the grooves, and one deeply questionable duet decision as Jonathan and Curtis move from jazz-funk fireworks into smooth studio-player territory before the category songs start causing emotional damage.Jonathan opens with a live Brecker Brothers performance, bringing precision horn lines, funk muscle, and the kind of jazz fusion intensity that makes everyone in the room feel slightly underqualified. Curtis follows with Tom Scott, adding polished saxophone-led cool, West Coast session-player energy, and that sweet spot where jazz, funk, and AOR start sharing custody.For the category songs, Jonathan returns with Collab From Hell #2, featuring Dolly Parton and Steve Perry in a pairing that sounds fascinating on paper and dangerously unstable once the microphones are on. Curtis then brings Original Versions with Spider, digging into the earlier life of a song better known through another artist’s hit version.Live fusion chaos, Tom Scott smoothness, original-version detective work, and a duet that probably should have required a permit—Episode 138 is slick, strange, and fully committed to the bit.Curtis Gross is a self-employed video editor.Jonathan Workman is an adult learning consultant based in Wichita, KS.---Make sure you are subscribed to Why Is This So Hard For You. Type Why Is This So Hard For You in your podcast provider, hit that subscription button, and leave us a five-star review. This will make it easier for other podcast listeners to find the podcast.---The intro music is the first 30 seconds of the Ornette Coleman tune "Song X" fed into AI software that attempts to output the song to a solo piano transcription. The outro music is the first 30 seconds of Sonny Rollins' version of the tune "St. Thomas" fed into the same software.

Episode 137 settles into prime late-’70s studio-player territory, with Curtis bringing Steely Dan and Jonathan following with the Doobie Brothers for a double shot of slick production, soft rock polish, and yacht rock-adjacent groove.Curtis opens with a Steely Dan cut built for radio mythology, full of jazz-pop sophistication, dry wit, and that unmistakable Becker/Fagen perfectionism. Jonathan keeps the smoothness going with the Doobie Brothers, bringing Michael McDonald-era soul, harmony, and AOR warmth into the mix.For the category songs, Curtis returns to Sonic Holocaust with Rodney Dangerfield, proving once again that novelty rap and celebrity comedy records can be a very dangerous combination. Jonathan then brings #1 In Our Hearts with Van Morrison, spotlighting a classic that somehow never reached the top spot but still feels permanently installed in the American songbook.Steely Dan cool, Doobie Brothers groove, Rodney Dangerfield chaos, and Van Morrison singalong royalty—Episode 137 is smooth, strange, and just a little damaged.Curtis Gross is a self-employed video editor.Jonathan Workman is an adult learning consultant based in Wichita, KS.---Make sure you are subscribed to Why Is This So Hard For You. Type Why Is This So Hard For You in your podcast provider, hit that subscription button, and leave us a five-star review. This will make it easier for other podcast listeners to find the podcast.---The intro music is the first 30 seconds of the Ornette Coleman tune "Song X" fed into AI software that attempts to output the song to a solo piano transcription. The outro music is the first 30 seconds of Sonny Rollins' version of the tune "St. Thomas" fed into the same software.

Episode 136 jumps from pop-rock deep cuts to full-on prog-rock chaos, then winds its way through original-version history and a song that got absolutely cooked by overexposure.Jonathan opens with Rick Springfield he really doesn't like, bringing a polished early-career cut with plenty of melodic pop craftsmanship. Curtis follows with King Crimson, heading straight into one of prog rock’s defining statements—jagged, intense, ambitious, and still capable of making normal classic rock sound like it forgot to do its homework.For the category songs, Jonathan brings an Original Version with George Benson, spotlighting the earlier soul-jazz side of a song many listeners know from a much bigger later recording. Curtis then returns to the podcast’s original category, Burnt To A Crisp, with Robert Palmer, revisiting a massive ’80s hit that became so unavoidable it practically needed its own fire extinguisher.Pop-rock polish, prog rock madness, original-version discovery, and a perfectly roasted overplayed classic—Episode 136 has range, volume, and a little smoke damage.Curtis Gross is a self-employed video editor.Jonathan Workman is an adult learning consultant based in Wichita, KS.---Make sure you are subscribed to Why Is This So Hard For You. Type Why Is This So Hard For You in your podcast provider, hit that subscription button, and leave us a five-star review. This will make it easier for other podcast listeners to find the podcast.---The intro music is the first 30 seconds of the Ornette Coleman tune "Song X" fed into AI software that attempts to output the song to a solo piano transcription. The outro music is the first 30 seconds of Sonny Rollins' version of the tune "St. Thomas" fed into the same software.

Episode 135 gets strange in all the right ways, moving from literary singer-songwriter atmosphere to heavy, harmony-rich rock before crashing directly into one of the most baffling novelty records ever allowed near a microphone.Curtis opens with Rickie Lee Jones, bringing smoky art-pop storytelling, jazz-shaded songwriting, and the kind of album-cut depth that rewards a closer listen. Jonathan follows with King’s X, adding muscular riffs, big vocal textures, and a deep cut that shows why the band has always lived somewhere between hard rock, prog, soul, and “why weren’t they bigger?”For the category songs, Curtis takes Sonic Holocaust exactly where it belongs with Dog Police, a song that feels less like music criticism and more like filing a police report. Jonathan then introduces Dead Ringer with Bonnie Tyler, a category that works on two levels: the song’s unmistakable connection to Bon Jovi’s arena-rock DNA, and the sad new weight behind revisiting Tyler’s powerhouse voice.Rickie Lee Jones mystery, King’s X muscle, Dog Police chaos, and a Bonnie Tyler curveball with a bittersweet edge—Episode 135 is weird, heartfelt, and fully committed.Curtis Gross is a self-employed video editor.Jonathan Workman is an adult learning consultant based in Wichita, KS.---Make sure you are subscribed to Why Is This So Hard For You. Type Why Is This So Hard For You in your podcast provider, hit that subscription button, and leave us a five-star review. This will make it easier for other podcast listeners to find the podcast.---The intro music is the first 30 seconds of the Ornette Coleman tune "Song X" fed into AI software that attempts to output the song to a solo piano transcription. The outro music is the first 30 seconds of Sonny Rollins' version of the tune "St. Thomas" fed into the same software.

Episode 134 brings together modern yacht rock polish, classic singer-songwriter comfort, original-version history, and one of the most joyful records ever to miss the top spot.Curtis opens with Monkey House, bringing sleek AOR production, studio-musician detail, and that throwback West Coast sound that feels custom-built for deep cut obsessives. Jonathan follows with James Taylor, adding warm soft rock, gentle craftsmanship, and the kind of understated songwriting that sneaks up on you.For the category songs, Jonathan brings Original Version with The La’s, digging into a jangly pop classic before it became part of the larger musical bloodstream. Curtis then takes #1 In Our Hearts straight to Earth, Wind & Fire, because some songs do not need a number-one chart position to feel permanently undefeated.Smooth grooves, thoughtful songwriting, original-version detective work, and a soul-funk celebration for the ages—Episode 134 is easy to love.Curtis Gross is a self-employed video editor.Jonathan Workman is an adult learning consultant based in Wichita, KS.---Make sure you are subscribed to Why Is This So Hard For You. Type Why Is This So Hard For You in your podcast provider, hit that subscription button, and leave us a five-star review. This will make it easier for other podcast listeners to find the podcast.---The intro music is the first 30 seconds of the Ornette Coleman tune "Song X" fed into AI software that attempts to output the song to a solo piano transcription. The outro music is the first 30 seconds of Sonny Rollins' version of the tune "St. Thomas" fed into the same software.

Episode 133 slides into that sweet spot where modern yacht rock polish, jazz fusion chops, and forgotten pop history all somehow belong in the same conversation.Curtis opens with State Cows, bringing smooth AOR textures, West Coast studio-musician energy, and the kind of throwback songwriting that feels built for this music podcast. Jonathan follows with Jeff Lorber Fusion, adding electric keys, instrumental groove, and a little jazz-fusion wizardry to the episode’s deep cut mix.For the category songs, Curtis brings an Original Version with Racey, digging into the strange and fascinating world of songs that had a life before the version most people know. Jonathan then takes #1 In Our Hearts into classic country-pop territory with Dottie West, because not every great record needs a chart-topping trophy to deserve the spotlight.Yacht rock sheen, fusion sparkle, original-version detective work, and a country-pop heartbreaker—Episode 133 has plenty of musical side roads worth taking.Curtis Gross is a self-employed video editor.Jonathan Workman is an adult learning consultant based in Wichita, KS.---Make sure you are subscribed to Why Is This So Hard For You. Type Why Is This So Hard For You in your podcast provider, hit that subscription button, and leave us a five-star review. This will make it easier for other podcast listeners to find the podcast.---The intro music is the first 30 seconds of the Ornette Coleman tune "Song X" fed into AI software that attempts to output the song to a solo piano transcription. The outro music is the first 30 seconds of Sonny Rollins' version of the tune "St. Thomas" fed into the same software.

Storm warnings, cinematic storytelling, powerhouse vocals, and one of pop music’s most famously misunderstood jokes.Jonathan opens with a Billy Joel deep cut before Curtis turns to Bruce Hornsby and the Range for a beautifully arranged song that feels like the closing scene of a movie nobody remembers seeing.For the category selections, Jonathan brings Covers with Jon Lampley, Clyde and Gracie Lawrence, and Sammy Rae joining forces for a stacked vocal performance. Curtis closes with Frequently Misunderstood, examining the Randy Newman satire that caused outrage among people who apparently stopped listening after the title.It’s an episode filled with sharp songwriting, elite musicianship, enormous voices, and further proof that satire should probably come with printed instructions.Curtis Gross is a self-employed video editor.Jonathan Workman is an adult learning consultant based in Wichita, KS.---Make sure you are subscribed to Why Is This So Hard For You. Type Why Is This So Hard For You in your podcast provider, hit that subscription button, and leave us a five-star review. This will make it easier for other podcast listeners to find the podcast.---The intro music is the first 30 seconds of the Ornette Coleman tune "Song X" fed into AI software that attempts to output the song to a solo piano transcription. The outro music is the first 30 seconds of Sonny Rollins' version of the tune "St. Thomas" fed into the same software.

Episode 131 gets wonderfully musician-brained as Derek Hale brings Allan Holdsworth into the room, which means jazz fusion, impossible guitar lines, and the general feeling that everyone else may need to practice more.Curtis continues his run through favorite debut albums with Donald Fagen, adding sleek studio polish, sophisticated songwriting, and that perfectly engineered jazz-pop/AOR atmosphere. Jonathan follows with Sting, bringing a thoughtful, literary deep cut that leans into the moodier side of 1980s singer-songwriter pop.Then Curtis takes the category chair for Stick To Acting, featuring David Soul and a reminder that sometimes the line between television star and pop singer gets very, very interesting.Fusion fireworks, immaculate debut-album polish, Sting-level seriousness, and a celebrity vocal turn that absolutely belongs in the category—Episode 131 has range.Curtis Gross is a self-employed video editor.Jonathan Workman is an adult learning consultant based in Wichita, KS.---Make sure you are subscribed to Why Is This So Hard For You. Type Why Is This So Hard For You in your podcast provider, hit that subscription button, and leave us a five-star review. This will make it easier for other podcast listeners to find the podcast.---The intro music is the first 30 seconds of the Ornette Coleman tune "Song X" fed into AI software that attempts to output the song to a solo piano transcription. The outro music is the first 30 seconds of Sonny Rollins' version of the tune "St. Thomas" fed into the same software.

Episode 130 keeps Derek Hale in the room for another round of deep cuts, debut-album discoveries, jazz fusion precision, and one very important reminder that some guys used to sing like their lives depended on it.Curtis continues his run through favorite debut albums with Kenny Loggins, bringing warm singer-songwriter craft, soft rock polish, and the kind of 1970s studio-musician atmosphere that sits right in the show’s sweet spot. Derek follows with Steve Smith and Vital Information, adding a sharp turn into jazz fusion, rhythmic muscle, and drummer-led instrumental firepower.Jonathan brings in an overlooked Alice Cooper cut that leans into the more melodic and reflective side of the catalog, giving the episode a little theatrical classic rock contrast before Derek takes over the category song.For the category Remember When Guys Could Sing..., Derek goes straight to Journey for a reminder that arena rock and AOR vocals once required absurd range, control, and probably a pre-show oxygen tank. Debut-album warmth, fusion chops, Alice Cooper curveballs, and Journey-level vocal gymnastics—Episode 130 has plenty to talk about.Curtis Gross is a self-employed video editor.Jonathan Workman is an adult learning consultant based in Wichita, KS.---Make sure you are subscribed to Why Is This So Hard For You. Type Why Is This So Hard For You in your podcast provider, hit that subscription button, and leave us a five-star review. This will make it easier for other podcast listeners to find the podcast.---The intro music is the first 30 seconds of the Ornette Coleman tune "Song X" fed into AI software that attempts to output the song to a solo piano transcription. The outro music is the first 30 seconds of Sonny Rollins' version of the tune "St. Thomas" fed into the same software.

Derek is still hanging around for Episode 129, which means the episode has room for smooth late-night atmosphere, ambitious debut-album energy, and a few jazz turns along the way.Jonathan opens with a moody collaboration from Chris Botti and The Blue Nile, bringing atmospheric trumpet, polished production, and cinematic melancholy. Curtis then continues his run through standout debut-album cuts with an early Chicago Transit Authority track, full of bold horn arrangements, shifting sections, and the ambitious energy that made that first record such a statement.Derek follows with a groove-heavy selection from John Scofield, adding guitar-driven jazz attitude, rhythmic bite, and just enough strangeness to keep everyone slightly off balance.For the category song, Jonathan brings Covers with a powerhouse version from Santa Fe and the Fat City Horns, turning a soul classic into a full-band, brass-forward workout.Jazz atmosphere, debut-album ambition, Scofield grit, and a horn-section cover that goes all in—Episode 129 has plenty to dig into.Curtis Gross is a self-employed video editor.Jonathan Workman is an adult learning consultant based in Wichita, KS.---Make sure you are subscribed to Why Is This So Hard For You. Type Why Is This So Hard For You in your podcast provider, hit that subscription button, and leave us a five-star review. This will make it easier for other podcast listeners to find the podcast.---The intro music is the first 30 seconds of the Ornette Coleman tune "Song X" fed into AI software that attempts to output the song to a solo piano transcription. The outro music is the first 30 seconds of Sonny Rollins' version of the tune "St. Thomas" fed into the same software.

Episode 128 brings Derek back to the show, and this one comes with an unusually personal theme. Curtis talks about recently going through a stress test and echocardiogram after having some strange heart sensations, so naturally the only reasonable response was to build an entire episode around heart-related songs.Curtis opens with a moody, atmospheric selection from Porcupine Tree, setting a darker and more reflective tone than usual. Derek follows with a fusion-heavy piece from the Chick Corea Elektric Band, bringing precision, movement, and serious musicianship into the heart-themed mix. Jonathan then shifts gears with a powerhouse rock entry from Pat Benatar, adding big vocals, big hooks, and classic ’80s energy.For the category song, Curtis brings it home with #1 In Our Hearts, featuring a smooth, soulful Kenny Loggins classic that ties the whole episode together almost too perfectly.Health updates, heart puns, prog atmosphere, fusion brilliance, rock drama, and yachtiest closer ever—Episode 128 proves that sometimes the theme chooses you.Curtis Gross is a self-employed video editor.Jonathan Workman is an adult learning consultant based in Wichita, KS.---Make sure you are subscribed to Why Is This So Hard For You. Type Why Is This So Hard For You in your podcast provider, hit that subscription button, and leave us a five-star review. This will make it easier for other podcast listeners to find the podcast.---The intro music is the first 30 seconds of the Ornette Coleman tune "Song X" fed into AI software that attempts to output the song to a solo piano transcription. The outro music is the first 30 seconds of Sonny Rollins' version of the tune "St. Thomas" fed into the same software.

Episode 127 moves from tight British jazz-funk into smoky modern songwriting before taking a sharp turn into kid-sized smoothness and soundtrack-country glory.Curtis opens with a groove-heavy selection from Level 42, bringing slap-bass energy, sharp musicianship, and that unmistakable blend of funk, pop, and precision. Jonathan follows with a beautifully restrained track from Norah Jones, leaning into mood, melody, and the kind of understated cool that rewards close listening.In the category songs, Curtis introduces Sippy Cup Yacht Rock, featuring a smooth, soft-rock-adjacent selection from Stephen Spencer that proves even the smallest sailors deserve polished production. Jonathan closes with Soundtrack Singles, pulling a legendary Jerry Reed track from Smokey and the Bandit—pure southern charm, highway momentum, and cinematic personality.Jazz-funk flash, late-night subtlety, children’s yacht-rock absurdity, and one all-time soundtrack ride—Episode 127 has range.Curtis Gross is a self-employed video editor.Jonathan Workman is an adult learning consultant based in Wichita, KS.---Make sure you are subscribed to Why Is This So Hard For You. Type Why Is This So Hard For You in your podcast provider, hit that subscription button, and leave us a five-star review. This will make it easier for other podcast listeners to find the podcast.---The intro music is the first 30 seconds of the Ornette Coleman tune "Song X" fed into AI software that attempts to output the song to a solo piano transcription. The outro music is the first 30 seconds of Sonny Rollins' version of the tune "St. Thomas" fed into the same software.

This episode moves from ’80s prog-pop precision into songwriter sophistication before landing in show-tune energy and one very David Foster-shaped category pick.Jonathan opens with a bright, punchy selection from Yes, leaning into the band’s more streamlined era where big musicianship meets accessible hooks. Curtis follows with a laid-back, character-rich track from Rickie Lee Jones, bringing that unmistakable blend of jazz, pop, storytelling, and offbeat cool.In the category songs, Jonathan brings Show Tunes into the mix with a theatrical selection from Brassroots District, giving the episode a little stage-ready flair. Curtis closes things out with Because David Foster, featuring Peter Allen and all the polished, dramatic, hyper-crafted energy that category name implies.Prog polish, songwriter charm, musical-theater detours, and peak Foster fingerprints—this one covers a lot of very specific ground.Curtis Gross is a self-employed video editor.Jonathan Workman is an adult learning consultant based in Wichita, KS.---Make sure you are subscribed to Why Is This So Hard For You. Type Why Is This So Hard For You in your podcast provider, hit that subscription button, and leave us a five-star review. This will make it easier for other podcast listeners to find the podcast.---The intro music is the first 30 seconds of the Ornette Coleman tune "Song X" fed into AI software that attempts to output the song to a solo piano transcription. The outro music is the first 30 seconds of Sonny Rollins' version of the tune "St. Thomas" fed into the same software.

Episode 125 turns into a full Van Halen moment as both Jonathan and Curtis arrive with tracks from different corners of the band’s catalog. Jonathan kicks things off with a high-energy, late-era cut that brings big hooks, big guitars, and full arena confidence, while Curtis follows with an early classic that captures the attitude, swing, and personality that helped make the band impossible to ignore.In the category songs, Jonathan introduces Worms In My Ears—a home for songs that are undeniably catchy, but maybe in the most irritating way possible. His pick from ABC opens the floor for a discussion about the difference between a great hook and a hook that simply will not leave you alone.Curtis then brings On The Cusp of Fame, spotlighting an early Bryan Adams track from just before he fully broke through as one of the defining rock voices of the ’80s.A Van Halen two-pack, a dangerously persistent earworm, and a future superstar waiting at the edge of fame—Episode 125 brings plenty of hooks, riffs, and category chaos.Curtis Gross is a self-employed video editor.Jonathan Workman is an adult learning consultant based in Wichita, KS.---Make sure you are subscribed to Why Is This So Hard For You. Type Why Is This So Hard For You in your podcast provider, hit that subscription button, and leave us a five-star review. This will make it easier for other podcast listeners to find the podcast.---The intro music is the first 30 seconds of the Ornette Coleman tune "Song X" fed into AI software that attempts to output the song to a solo piano transcription. The outro music is the first 30 seconds of Sonny Rollins' version of the tune "St. Thomas" fed into the same software.

Episode 124 keeps Curtis’ debut-album deep cut streak alive with a sharp, high-energy selection from Toto, packed with studio precision, rock muscle, and the kind of musicianship that made their first record so loaded. Jonathan follows with a polished track from Glad, bringing tight vocals, earnest songwriting, and a different kind of ’80s/’90s craft.In the category songs, Curtis brings another Original Version, this time from i-Ten, revisiting a song that later became far more famous in another form. Jonathan closes with Soundtrack Singles, pulling a smooth country-pop entry from Kenny Rogers tied to the film Six Pack.Debut album greatness, layered vocals, original-version discovery, and a soundtrack single that deserves another lap around the track—Episode 124 covers plenty of ground.Curtis Gross is a self-employed video editor.Jonathan Workman is an adult learning consultant based in Wichita, KS.---Make sure you are subscribed to Why Is This So Hard For You. Type Why Is This So Hard For You in your podcast provider, hit that subscription button, and leave us a five-star review. This will make it easier for other podcast listeners to find the podcast.---The intro music is the first 30 seconds of the Ornette Coleman tune "Song X" fed into AI software that attempts to output the song to a solo piano transcription. The outro music is the first 30 seconds of Sonny Rollins' version of the tune "St. Thomas" fed into the same software.

Episode 123 moves from smooth jazz-funk into classic songwriter territory before ending with two songs built for completely different kinds of emotional driving.Jonathan opens with a groove-heavy selection from George Benson, blending fluid guitar work, rhythmic sophistication, and the effortless cool that defined his crossover era. Curtis continues his ongoing exploration of standout debut albums with a warm, melodic deep cut from Stephen Bishop, highlighting the understated songwriting brilliance that made his early work so enduring.In the category songs, Jonathan brings a Cruisin’ Song from Whitesnake, delivering full nighttime-highway energy, dramatic vocals, and maximum late-’80s atmosphere. Curtis closes with a #1 In Our Hearts selection from Chaka Khan, showcasing powerhouse vocals and the kind of emotional intensity that still feels timeless.Jazz-funk groove, soft-rock craftsmanship, arena-rock cruising music, and one unforgettable vocal performance—Episode 123 covers the full emotional spectrum.Curtis Gross is a self-employed video editor.Jonathan Workman is an adult learning consultant based in Wichita, KS.---Make sure you are subscribed to Why Is This So Hard For You. Type Why Is This So Hard For You in your podcast provider, hit that subscription button, and leave us a five-star review. This will make it easier for other podcast listeners to find the podcast.---The intro music is the first 30 seconds of the Ornette Coleman tune "Song X" fed into AI software that attempts to output the song to a solo piano transcription. The outro music is the first 30 seconds of Sonny Rollins' version of the tune "St. Thomas" fed into the same software.

Episode 122 leans into songwriter storytelling, all-time debut album magic, and two category songs that could easily start arguments in the parking lot after the show.Jonathan opens with a reflective, late-night selection from Marc Cohn, bringing warmth, lyrical detail, and that unmistakable road-worn vocal style. Curtis continues his ongoing appreciation for legendary debut albums with a soaring deep cut from Boston, reminding everyone just how absurdly loaded that first record really was.In the category songs, Jonathan instigates a full-blown New England Deck Fight by raising the eternal question: does Styx qualify as yacht rock? The debate gets appropriately heated. Curtis then closes things out with another entry into Stick To Acting, featuring a selection from John Travolta that proves the line between acting career and recording career is sometimes thinner than it should be.Thoughtful songwriting, arena-rock perfection, yacht-rock controversy, and actor-pop confusion—Episode 122 has a little bit of everything.Curtis Gross is a self-employed video editor.Jonathan Workman is an adult learning consultant based in Wichita, KS.---Make sure you are subscribed to Why Is This So Hard For You. Type Why Is This So Hard For You in your podcast provider, hit that subscription button, and leave us a five-star review. This will make it easier for other podcast listeners to find the podcast.---The intro music is the first 30 seconds of the Ornette Coleman tune "Song X" fed into AI software that attempts to output the song to a solo piano transcription. The outro music is the first 30 seconds of Sonny Rollins' version of the tune "St. Thomas" fed into the same software.

Episode 121 swings from razor-sharp new wave to modern fusion before diving headfirst into southern rock excess and wrestling-world oddities.Curtis opens with a punchy, late-’70s selection from The Cars, blending sleek hooks, cool detachment, and just enough nervous energy to make everything sound effortlessly stylish. Jonathan follows with a rhythmically rich modern track from Oli Howe, showcasing fusion chops, tight grooves, and contemporary musicianship with serious feel.In the category songs, Curtis unveils a new category: Mullet Manifesto. Naturally, it arrives courtesy of Blackfoot, delivering full-throttle southern rock energy, highway imagery, and enough hair to violate several safety regulations. Jonathan closes things out with a Rock & Wrestling Connection selection from legendary wrestler Terry Funk, reminding us once again that the overlap between wrestling and music history is far stranger than it should be.New wave polish, fusion finesse, southern rock swagger, and wrestling-related musical confusion—Episode 121 covers a lot of territory.Curtis Gross is a self-employed video editor.Jonathan Workman is an adult learning consultant based in Wichita, KS.---Make sure you are subscribed to Why Is This So Hard For You. Type Why Is This So Hard For You in your podcast provider, hit that subscription button, and leave us a five-star review. This will make it easier for other podcast listeners to find the podcast.---The intro music is the first 30 seconds of the Ornette Coleman tune "Song X" fed into AI software that attempts to output the song to a solo piano transcription. The outro music is the first 30 seconds of Sonny Rollins' version of the tune "St. Thomas" fed into the same software.

Episode 120 is back to just Curtis and Jonathan, this episode leans into smooth songwriting, studio precision, and a category segment that spirals into layered cover-song madness.Curtis opens with a warm, late-era selection from Christopher Cross, delivering that unmistakable soft rock glow and effortless melodic touch. Jonathan follows with a polished, musician’s-musician track from Tom Hemby, highlighting tasteful arrangement and session-level craftsmanship.In the category songs, Curtis brings another Original Version, this time from Lou Johnson, revisiting a song that would go on to have a much bigger life through later interpretations. Jonathan then takes things a step further with a Double Cover—a modern reinterpretation by David Cook of a cover song by Whitesnake of a Beatles classic, proving that sometimes one cover just isn’t enough.Smooth vibes, deep cuts, and a category segment that keeps adding layers—this episode hits all the right notes.Curtis Gross is a self-employed video editor.Jonathan Workman is an adult learning consultant based in Wichita, KS.---Make sure you are subscribed to Why Is This So Hard For You. Type Why Is This So Hard For You in your podcast provider, hit that subscription button, and leave us a five-star review. This will make it easier for other podcast listeners to find the podcast.---The intro music is the first 30 seconds of the Ornette Coleman tune "Song X" fed into AI software that attempts to output the song to a solo piano transcription. The outro music is the first 30 seconds of Sonny Rollins' version of the tune "St. Thomas" fed into the same software.

Derek joins for one more episode as we move through intricate jazz, classic songwriting, and a quietly brilliant collaboration to close things out.Jonathan opens with a nimble, harmonically rich performance from Gwilym Simcock, blending modern jazz language with lyrical phrasing and subtle complexity. Curtis follows with a reflective, beautifully crafted selection from Dan Fogelberg, leaning into timeless melody and introspective songwriting.Derek then brings a cinematic, emotionally resonant piece from W. G. Snuffy Walden, a track that feels equally at home in television scoring and standalone listening.In the category songs, Jonathan closes things out with a Collaborations pick featuring Chris Thile and Brad Mehldau, highlighting the kind of understated interplay and musical conversation that defines great collaborative work.A thoughtful mix of modern jazz, classic songcraft, and one last contribution from Derek—Episode 119 brings this stretch of episodes to a fitting close.Curtis Gross is a self-employed video editor.Jonathan Workman is an adult learning consultant based in Wichita, KS.---Make sure you are subscribed to Why Is This So Hard For You. Type Why Is This So Hard For You in your podcast provider, hit that subscription button, and leave us a five-star review. This will make it easier for other podcast listeners to find the podcast.---The intro music is the first 30 seconds of the Ornette Coleman tune "Song X" fed into AI software that attempts to output the song to a solo piano transcription. The outro music is the first 30 seconds of Sonny Rollins' version of the tune "St. Thomas" fed into the same software.

Derek is back once again for Episode 118, guiding this one through jazz precision, modern groove, and a perfectly placed nostalgic turn.Derek opens with a sophisticated, melodic performance from the Branford Marsalis Quartet, setting the tone with interplay, tone, and top-tier musicianship. Jonathan follows with a rhythm-forward, bass-driven track from Vincen García, bringing modern fusion energy and tight pocket playing into the mix. Curtis then shifts things into a more atmospheric space with a live performance from David Gilmour and Romany Gilmour, where mood, texture, and restraint take center stage.In the category songs, Derek introduces Youth Group Moments, pulling a track from Amy Grant that taps directly into a very specific era of earnest songwriting and shared musical memory.Jazz sophistication, modern groove, live performance nuance, and a nostalgic callback that hits a little too close to home—Episode 118 delivers a little bit of everything.Curtis Gross is a self-employed video editor.Jonathan Workman is an adult learning consultant based in Wichita, KS.---Make sure you are subscribed to Why Is This So Hard For You. Type Why Is This So Hard For You in your podcast provider, hit that subscription button, and leave us a five-star review. This will make it easier for other podcast listeners to find the podcast.---The intro music is the first 30 seconds of the Ornette Coleman tune "Song X" fed into AI software that attempts to output the song to a solo piano transcription. The outro music is the first 30 seconds of Sonny Rollins' version of the tune "St. Thomas" fed into the same software.

Derek sticks around for another round, and Episode 117 delivers one of the more unpredictable mixes yet—equal parts smooth sophistication, unintentional comedy, and deep-cut soul.Curtis opens with a sleek, groove-forward selection from Torsten Goods, blending modern jazz phrasing with pop sensibility and polished production. Derek follows with a curveball from Peter Howard Morris—a track that lands somewhere between earnest and unmistakably “shopping music,” and yes, that’s entirely the point.Jonathan brings things firmly back on track with a soulful, rhythm-driven cut from Lee Fields & The Expressions, delivering vintage feel with modern energy and conviction.In the category songs, Curtis highlights an Original Version from Gloria Jones, revisiting a track that would later take on a much larger cultural footprint in a completely different form.Smooth grooves, unexpected detours, and a reminder that sometimes the original hits just as hard—Episode 117 covers it all.Curtis Gross is a self-employed video editor.Jonathan Workman is an adult learning consultant based in Wichita, KS.---Make sure you are subscribed to Why Is This So Hard For You. Type Why Is This So Hard For You in your podcast provider, hit that subscription button, and leave us a five-star review. This will make it easier for other podcast listeners to find the podcast.---The intro music is the first 30 seconds of the Ornette Coleman tune "Song X" fed into AI software that attempts to output the song to a solo piano transcription. The outro music is the first 30 seconds of Sonny Rollins' version of the tune "St. Thomas" fed into the same software.

Episode 116 welcomes back original contributor Derek Hale for a three-way dive into groove, vocal precision, and symphonic reinterpretation.Jonathan kicks things off with a tight, rhythm-driven selection from Vulfpeck, where stripped-down funk and precision playing create something deceptively simple and endlessly replayable. Curtis follows with a polished, soulful track from Claudia Campagnol, showcasing modern pop-soul with pristine production and vocal control. Derek then brings a bold, genre-blending piece from Mannheim Steamroller, merging classical influence with synth-driven arrangement in a way only they can.In the category songs, things take a turn. What is labeled as an Epic Cover becomes… something else entirely. Curtis’ well-documented feelings about Air Supply resurface as a dramatic reinterpretation of one of their songs is put under the microscope—and let’s just say, not all covers are created equal.Guest energy, modern groove, symphonic flair, and a cover that sparks strong opinions—Episode 116 delivers exactly the kind of debate this show thrives on.Curtis Gross is a self-employed video editor.Jonathan Workman is an adult learning consultant based in Wichita, KS.---Make sure you are subscribed to Why Is This So Hard For You. Type Why Is This So Hard For You in your podcast provider, hit that subscription button, and leave us a five-star review. This will make it easier for other podcast listeners to find the podcast.---The intro music is the first 30 seconds of the Ornette Coleman tune "Song X" fed into AI software that attempts to output the song to a solo piano transcription. The outro music is the first 30 seconds of Sonny Rollins' version of the tune "St. Thomas" fed into the same software.

Episode 115 leans into groove-driven musicianship, classic R&B energy, and songs that hit deeper than their chart positions might suggest.Jonathan opens with a sleek, rhythm-forward selection from George Duke, blending jazz-fusion chops with undeniable funk sensibility. Curtis follows with a vibrant, horn-driven track from Earth, Wind & Fire, delivering signature energy, tight arrangements, and that unmistakable blend of soul and precision.In the category songs, Jonathan brings a #1 In Our Hearts selection from Lionel Richie, a song defined by warmth, sincerity, and timeless melody. Curtis closes with a Covers pick from Jaye P. Morgan—an unexpected choice for many listeners, given that she’s often more closely associated with The Gong Show than with reinterpretations of soulful classics.Fusion grooves, classic soul craftsmanship, and songs that continue to resonate—Episode 115 keeps things smooth, heartfelt, and deeply musical.Curtis Gross is a self-employed video editor.Jonathan Workman is an adult learning consultant based in Wichita, KS.---Make sure you are subscribed to Why Is This So Hard For You. Type Why Is This So Hard For You in your podcast provider, hit that subscription button, and leave us a five-star review. This will make it easier for other podcast listeners to find the podcast.---The intro music is the first 30 seconds of the Ornette Coleman tune "Song X" fed into AI software that attempts to output the song to a solo piano transcription. The outro music is the first 30 seconds of Sonny Rollins' version of the tune "St. Thomas" fed into the same software.

Episode 114 moves from jazz-stage intensity to modern pop polish before landing in two very different corners of musical memory.Curtis opens with a fiery performance from the Wynton Marsalis Septet, where improvisation, groove, and spiritual energy collide in a piece that feels part concert, part sermon. Jonathan follows with a polished selection from Keith Urban, blending country songwriting with pop accessibility and studio sheen.In the category songs, Curtis brings a Too Smart for Top 40 pick from Jamiroquai, a track packed with groove, social commentary, and musicianship that somehow still found its way onto mainstream radio. Jonathan closes things out with a Guilty Pleasure courtesy of Simple Minds, a massive ’80s anthem that proves some songs never really leave the cultural bloodstream.Jazz fire, pop craftsmanship, and two songs that still spark strong opinions—Episode 114 covers a lot of musical ground.Curtis Gross is a self-employed video editor.Jonathan Workman is an adult learning consultant based in Wichita, KS.---Make sure you are subscribed to Why Is This So Hard For You. Type Why Is This So Hard For You in your podcast provider, hit that subscription button, and leave us a five-star review. This will make it easier for other podcast listeners to find the podcast.---The intro music is the first 30 seconds of the Ornette Coleman tune "Song X" fed into AI software that attempts to output the song to a solo piano transcription. The outro music is the first 30 seconds of Sonny Rollins' version of the tune "St. Thomas" fed into the same software.

Episode 113 leans into masterful songwriting, smooth West Coast sensibilities, and a pair of songs that helped define their eras.Curtis opens with a heartfelt selection from Stephen Bishop, spotlighting the gentle melodic touch and reflective storytelling that made him a quiet architect of late-’70s soft rock. Jonathan follows with a polished AOR gem from Dane Donohue, delivering sleek arrangements and the kind of West Coast craftsmanship that feels right at home on this show.In the category songs, Curtis brings a #1 In Our Hearts moment from James Taylor, pulling from a live performance that captures the warmth and communal spirit of one of his most beloved songs. Jonathan closes the episode with an Original Version selection from Otis Redding, revisiting a soul classic before it took on an even bigger life through later interpretations.Elegant songwriting, timeless voices, and another reminder that some songs never needed a chart position to feel like number one.Curtis Gross is a self-employed video editor.Jonathan Workman is an adult learning consultant based in Wichita, KS.---Make sure you are subscribed to Why Is This So Hard For You. Type Why Is This So Hard For You in your podcast provider, hit that subscription button, and leave us a five-star review. This will make it easier for other podcast listeners to find the podcast.---The intro music is the first 30 seconds of the Ornette Coleman tune "Song X" fed into AI software that attempts to output the song to a solo piano transcription. The outro music is the first 30 seconds of Sonny Rollins' version of the tune "St. Thomas" fed into the same software.

This episode stretches from high-energy live funk to sleek modern fusion before detouring into bowling-alley memories and late-’80s cruising culture.Curtis opens with a live performance from Level 42, captured at Reading Concert Hall in 2001—tight grooves, virtuosic bass work, and the kind of stage chemistry that only gets better with volume. Jonathan follows with a polished, harmonically rich selection from Simon Oslender, showcasing contemporary fusion chops with serious melodic instincts.In the category songs, Curtis brings an At the Bowling Alley pick from Elton John and Kiki Dee—a track forever tied to childhood nostalgia, neon lights, and the smell of rented shoes. Jonathan counters with a new category, Cruisin’ The Square, featuring a dramatic, arena-ready selection from White Lion, perfect for slow laps around the parking lot with the windows down.Live musicianship, modern fusion finesse, retro pop memory, and hair-metal earnestness—this episode covers a surprising amount of ground.Curtis Gross is a self-employed video editor.Jonathan Workman is an adult learning consultant based in Wichita, KS.---Make sure you are subscribed to Why Is This So Hard For You. Type Why Is This So Hard For You in your podcast provider, hit that subscription button, and leave us a five-star review. This will make it easier for other podcast listeners to find the podcast.---The intro music is the first 30 seconds of the Ornette Coleman tune "Song X" fed into AI software that attempts to output the song to a solo piano transcription. The outro music is the first 30 seconds of Sonny Rollins' version of the tune "St. Thomas" fed into the same software.

This episode opens in surprisingly authentic waters. Jonathan kicks things off with a sleek, classic yacht rock–styled track from production house Bigger Story Music—a reminder that sometimes the most faithful recreations of West Coast polish are hiding in unexpected corners of the music world.Curtis then shifts gears into high-velocity jazz-fusion with a blistering performance from Hiromi and her band Sonicwonder, where technical brilliance somehow still leaves room for melody and hooks.We also return to The Deep Cut State, asking entirely reasonable questions about recurring studio aesthetics, suspicious stylistic resurgences, and whether smooth production eras ever truly die… or just relocate.In the category songs, Jonathan brings a Cover featuring Fourplay alongside Phil Collins, blending polished jazz textures with pop-era familiarity. Curtis closes with a #1 In Our Hearts selection from George Benson, delivering timeless groove and the kind of crossover magic that still feels like it topped the charts—even if it technically didn’t.Production yacht authenticity, fusion virtuosity, smooth collaborations, and another file added to the Deep Cut State archives.Audio note: Curtis’ microphone went rogue during this recording session. It’s been fixed going forward.Curtis Gross is a self-employed video editor.Jonathan Workman is an adult learning consultant based in Wichita, KS.---Make sure you are subscribed to Why Is This So Hard For You. Type Why Is This So Hard For You in your podcast provider, hit that subscription button, and leave us a five-star review. This will make it easier for other podcast listeners to find the podcast.---The intro music is the first 30 seconds of the Ornette Coleman tune "Song X" fed into AI software that attempts to output the song to a solo piano transcription. The outro music is the first 30 seconds of Sonny Rollins' version of the tune "St. Thomas" fed into the same software.

Episode 110 moves from smooth modern soul to cool-jazz precision before taking a sharp left into collaborative pop-funk and full-blown ’70s absurdity.Curtis opens with a rich, groove-driven track from Allen Stone’s APART era, leaning into heartfelt vocals and retro-leaning soul textures. Jonathan follows with a breezy yet intricate performance from alto legend Art Pepper, bringing West Coast jazz tone and melodic improvisation into the spotlight.In the category songs, Curtis highlights a Collaboration/Duet from Herbie Hancock’s Possibilities project—an era where jazz pedigree meets contemporary production and unexpected pairings. Jonathan then closes things out with a bold entry into Worst Of The ’70s, courtesy of Ohio Players—a track that is equal parts funky, bizarre, and impossible to ignore.Soul, jazz, big-name collaborations, and one delightfully questionable funk moment—Episode 110 covers a lot of ground.Audio note: Curtis’ microphone went rogue during this recording session. It’s been fixed going forward.Curtis Gross is a self-employed video editor.Jonathan Workman is an adult learning consultant based in Wichita, KS.---Make sure you are subscribed to Why Is This So Hard For You. Type Why Is This So Hard For You in your podcast provider, hit that subscription button, and leave us a five-star review. This will make it easier for other podcast listeners to find the podcast.---The intro music is the first 30 seconds of the Ornette Coleman tune "Song X" fed into AI software that attempts to output the song to a solo piano transcription. The outro music is the first 30 seconds of Sonny Rollins' version of the tune "St. Thomas" fed into the same software.

This week Curtis and Jonathan bounce between polished classic rock, left-of-center pop, and a double dose of covers that each take very different approaches.Curtis opens with a smooth, late-era selection from Chicago, leaning into their more reflective, songwriter-driven side. Jonathan follows with a characteristically quirky pick from They Might Be Giants, bringing wit, odd angles, and unmistakable personality into the mix.Jonathan also takes the reins for The Deep Cut State, where we once again begin connecting dots, noticing patterns, and asking questions we probably shouldn’t—purely for research purposes, of course.The category songs keep things soulful and thoughtful. Curtis brings a Cover from Blood, Sweat & Tears, reworking a timeless standard with weight and intention, while Jonathan counters with another Cover, this time from Livingston Taylor, offering a warm, understated reinterpretation rooted in melody and feel.Classic bands, clever detours, conspiracy vibes, and covers that actually mean something—this episode hits all the familiar pressure points.Audio note: Curtis’ microphone went rogue during this recording session. It’s been fixed going forward.Curtis Gross is a self-employed video editor.Jonathan Workman is an adult learning consultant based in Wichita, KS.---Make sure you are subscribed to Why Is This So Hard For You. Type Why Is This So Hard For You in your podcast provider, hit that subscription button, and leave us a five-star review. This will make it easier for other podcast listeners to find the podcast.---The intro music is the first 30 seconds of the Ornette Coleman tune "Song X" fed into AI software that attempts to output the song to a solo piano transcription. The outro music is the first 30 seconds of Sonny Rollins' version of the tune "St. Thomas" fed into the same software.

This week’s episode leans hard into musicianship, nuance, and the kind of songs that reward close listening. Jonathan opens with an elegant, textural piece from David Snell, spotlighting delicate arrangements and a quietly mesmerizing approach to melody. Curtis follows with a modern progressive selection from Steven Wilson, where atmosphere, dynamics, and meticulous production take center stage.The category songs dig even deeper. Jonathan brings an Original Version from P. P. Arnold, revisiting a song that later found massive success in other hands but hits differently in its earliest form. Curtis closes things out with a Deck Shoes Deep Cut from Jim Photoglo, delivering peak soft-rock songwriting that somehow still flies under the radar.Thoughtful, melodic, and unapologetically deep—this one’s for listeners who like their music choices just a little off the main path.Audio note: Curtis’ microphone went rogue during this recording session. It’s been fixed going forward.Curtis Gross is a self-employed video editor.Jonathan Workman is an adult learning consultant based in Wichita, KS.---Make sure you are subscribed to Why Is This So Hard For You. Type Why Is This So Hard For You in your podcast provider, hit that subscription button, and leave us a five-star review. This will make it easier for other podcast listeners to find the podcast.---The intro music is the first 30 seconds of the Ornette Coleman tune "Song X" fed into AI software that attempts to output the song to a solo piano transcription. The outro music is the first 30 seconds of Sonny Rollins' version of the tune "St. Thomas" fed into the same software.

This week Curtis and Jonathan bring a mix of soundtrack gold, sleek modern vibes, and just enough chaos to keep the timeline unstable. Curtis leads off with a smooth Al Jarreau soundtrack selection—pure voice, pure feel, and peak “how is this guy that good?” energy. Jonathan follows with a track from Wilshire, keeping things melodic and polished while staying firmly in deep-cut territory.Then we return to The Deep Cut State, where we once again “just ask questions” about strange coincidences, hidden patterns, and the possibility that the music world is far more coordinated than anyone wants to admit. No accusations. Just… observations.The category songs take a hard left. Curtis brings a Cover from Ram Jam, turning a traditional African American folk/work song with deep roots into full-throttle rock. Jonathan closes with a true Flash In The Pan moment from the Chicago Bears, proving that sometimes a team, a studio, and a questionable idea are all you need to create musical history.Soundtrack soul, deep cuts, conspiracy vibes, and sports-related absurdity—this episode has the full package.Curtis Gross is a self-employed video editor.Jonathan Workman is an adult learning consultant based in Wichita, KS.---Make sure you are subscribed to Why Is This So Hard For You. Type Why Is This So Hard For You in your podcast provider, hit that subscription button, and leave us a five-star review. This will make it easier for other podcast listeners to find the podcast.---The intro music is the first 30 seconds of the Ornette Coleman tune "Song X" fed into AI software that attempts to output the song to a solo piano transcription. The outro music is the first 30 seconds of Sonny Rollins' version of the tune "St. Thomas" fed into the same software.

This week Jonathan kicks things off with a high-energy groove from Tom McGuire and the Brass Holes, bringing tight horns, infectious rhythm, and the kind of modern funk punch that instantly grabs you. Curtis follows with a sweeping, grand-scale track from Kansas, diving into classic progressive rock territory with big melodies and even bigger ambition.In the category songs, Jonathan’s Screen To Stage pick comes courtesy of Flight of the Conchords, delivering the perfect mix of comedy, sincerity, and songwriting chops. Curtis closes things out with a smooth, unmistakably ’80s-flavored duet featuring Luther Vandross and Gregory Hines, because sometimes the only proper ending is pure charisma and velvet vocals.Deep cuts, big swings, and category chaos—exactly how we like it.Curtis Gross is a self-employed video editor.Jonathan Workman is an adult learning consultant based in Wichita, KS.---Make sure you are subscribed to Why Is This So Hard For You. Type Why Is This So Hard For You in your podcast provider, hit that subscription button, and leave us a five-star review. This will make it easier for other podcast listeners to find the podcast.---The intro music is the first 30 seconds of the Ornette Coleman tune "Song X" fed into AI software that attempts to output the song to a solo piano transcription. The outro music is the first 30 seconds of Sonny Rollins' version of the tune "St. Thomas" fed into the same software.

Episode 105 brings Curtis and Jonathan back into familiar territory—smooth, meticulous, and just a little unhinged. Jonathan opens with a polished slice of West Coast pop from Player, while Curtis counters with a sleek, cinematic fusion track from Yellowjackets, leaning fully into late-night musicianship and studio finesse.This week also marks the debut of a brand-new feature: The Deep Cut State. In this segment, we begin asking important questions—possibly too important—as we explore whether certain patterns, coincidences, and musical decisions might point to something more… conspiratorial. We’re not making claims. We’re just noticing things.The category songs keep the energy unpredictable. Jonathan brings a listener request from Lee Ofman, while Curtis closes things out with a full-blown Sonic Holocaust selection from Pet Shop Boys, taking a familiar melody somewhere loud, dramatic, and impossible to ignore.Smooth grooves, jazz-fusion flair, listener chaos, and the first official step into conspiracy territory—welcome to the Deep Cut State.Curtis Gross is a self-employed video editor.Jonathan Workman is an adult learning consultant based in Wichita, KS.---Make sure you are subscribed to Why Is This So Hard For You. Type Why Is This So Hard For You in your podcast provider, hit that subscription button, and leave us a five-star review. This will make it easier for other podcast listeners to find the podcast.---The intro music is the first 30 seconds of the Ornette Coleman tune "Song X" fed into AI software that attempts to output the song to a solo piano transcription. The outro music is the first 30 seconds of Sonny Rollins' version of the tune "St. Thomas" fed into the same software.

Curtis and Jonathan dig into a mix of impeccable songwriting, genre-blending pop, and the eternal originals-versus-covers debate.Curtis opens the episode with a sharply written, emotionally grounded track from Randy Goodrum, highlighting the kind of behind-the-scenes songwriter brilliance that quietly shaped an era. Jonathan follows with a polished, crossover-era selection from Ronnie Milsap, where country storytelling meets pop craftsmanship at its peak.In the category songs, Curtis brings an Original Version pick from Robert Hazard, revisiting a song that later took on a much bigger life through a more famous reinterpretation. Jonathan counters with a Cover from Lake Street Dive, offering a modern, groove-forward take on a well-known classic and sparking the usual questions about reinterpretation, restraint, and necessity.It’s an episode full of strong melodies, great writing, and thoughtful detours—exactly the kind of musical rabbit holes this show was built for.Curtis Gross is a self-employed video editor.Jonathan Workman is an adult learning consultant based in Wichita, KS.---Make sure you are subscribed to Why Is This So Hard For You. Type Why Is This So Hard For You in your podcast provider, hit that subscription button, and leave us a five-star review. This will make it easier for other podcast listeners to find the podcast.---The intro music is the first 30 seconds of the Ornette Coleman tune "Song X" fed into AI software that attempts to output the song to a solo piano transcription. The outro music is the first 30 seconds of Sonny Rollins' version of the tune "St. Thomas" fed into the same software.

Curtis and Jonathan return for Episode 103 with a mix that somehow bridges pristine modern AOR, adventurous progressive rock, and two cover songs that take very different creative risks.Curtis opens the episode with a sleek, emotionally driven track from Lionville, showcasing modern melodic songwriting with classic sensibilities. Jonathan follows by heading into more complex territory with a progressive-era selection from Spock’s Beard, full of shifting moods and ambitious arrangements.The category songs take a sharp turn into cover-song chaos. Curtis brings a wildly unexpected reinterpretation from Don Ho, applying an unmistakable style to a song that probably never asked for it. Jonathan counters with a vintage-flavored reimagining from Postmodern Jukebox, transforming a rock staple into something entirely different—stylish, clever, and debatably necessary.It’s an episode built on contrasts: polished vs. complex, sincere vs. ironic, and covers that force us to ask the eternal question—just because you can, should you?Curtis Gross is a self-employed video editor.Jonathan Workman is an adult learning consultant based in Wichita, KS.---Make sure you are subscribed to Why Is This So Hard For You. Type Why Is This So Hard For You in your podcast provider, hit that subscription button, and leave us a five-star review. This will make it easier for other podcast listeners to find the podcast.---The intro music is the first 30 seconds of the Ornette Coleman tune "Song X" fed into AI software that attempts to output the song to a solo piano transcription. The outro music is the first 30 seconds of Sonny Rollins' version of the tune "St. Thomas" fed into the same software.

Episode 102 is our official Christmas episode, which—naturally—means we don’t start with a Christmas song at all. Jonathan opens with a polished, radio-era track from Steve Winwood’s Back in the High Life period, proving once again that this show cannot go straight from point A to point B.Curtis then officially flips the seasonal switch with a thoughtful, modern Christmas selection from Andrew Peterson, setting a reflective tone before things inevitably get weird.In the category songs, Jonathan leans fully into ’Tis The Season with a beautifully restrained holiday pick from Shawn Colvin, while Curtis closes the episode by lighting a match and walking away—bringing what he argues may be the Worst of Christmas, courtesy of an unforgettable collaboration between Bing Crosby and David Bowie.It’s reverent, irreverent, sincere, and completely on brand—holiday music filtered through deep cuts, strong opinions, and just enough chaos to feel festive.Curtis Gross is a self-employed video editor.Jonathan Workman is an adult learning consultant based in Wichita, KS.---Make sure you are subscribed to Why Is This So Hard For You. Type Why Is This So Hard For You in your podcast provider, hit that subscription button, and leave us a five-star review. This will make it easier for other podcast listeners to find the podcast.---The intro music is the first 30 seconds of the Ornette Coleman tune "Song X" fed into AI software that attempts to output the song to a solo piano transcription. The outro music is the first 30 seconds of Sonny Rollins' version of the tune "St. Thomas" fed into the same software.

After the milestone celebration, Curtis and Jonathan are back to their usual two-man musical mischief for Episode 101. Jonathan kicks things off with an underrated gem from Mr. Mister, diving into that pristine ’80s studio-pop sheen the show loves. Curtis follows with a smooth, early-era deep cut from the first Pages album, bringing West Coast AOR energy back into the room where it belongs.In the category songs, Jonathan delivers a delightfully over-the-top Burnt To A Crisp Christmas selection—equal parts seasonal and unhinged—before Curtis restores balance with a warm, soulful #1 In Our Hearts moment from Quincy Jones’ The Dude era. Consider it the perfect palate cleanser.It’s classic WITSHFY: immaculate harmonies, questionable holiday choices, pristine session-player worship, and two friends wandering happily through the deep-cut wilderness.Curtis Gross is a self-employed video editor.Jonathan Workman is an adult learning consultant based in Wichita, KS.---Make sure you are subscribed to Why Is This So Hard For You. Type Why Is This So Hard For You in your podcast provider, hit that subscription button, and leave us a five-star review. This will make it easier for other podcast listeners to find the podcast.---The intro music is the first 30 seconds of the Ornette Coleman tune "Song X" fed into AI software that attempts to output the song to a solo piano transcription. The outro music is the first 30 seconds of Sonny Rollins' version of the tune "St. Thomas" fed into the same software.

We’ve officially hit triple digits, and Episode 100 comes with a special guest: Derek Hale, one of the original creative sparks behind the show. Derek opens the celebration with a jazz masterwork from Wynton Marsalis, setting the tone for a milestone episode.Jonathan follows with a lush, vocal-driven classic interpreted by Jane Monheit, while Curtis dives straight into the deep-cut trenches with an hidden yacht rock gem from Steve Kipner—a pick so obscure it feels like a thesis statement for why this podcast exists.For our “Best of the First 100” moment, we revisit the unforgettable dramatic-pop fever dream brought to life by David Geddes, a track that somehow became one of this show's most beloved recurring references.And to close out the festivities, Curtis brings us full circle with a fiery Burnt To A Crisp selection from none other than Michael Jackson—a reminder of how this whole ridiculous, passionate, music-nerd journey began.It’s nostalgic, nerdy, celebratory, and a perfect snapshot of everything that has made the first hundred episodes so fun.Curtis Gross is a self-employed video editor.Jonathan Workman is an adult learning consultant based in Wichita, KS.---Make sure you are subscribed to Why Is This So Hard For You. Type Why Is This So Hard For You in your podcast provider, hit that subscription button, and leave us a five-star review. This will make it easier for other podcast listeners to find the podcast.---The intro music is the first 30 seconds of the Ornette Coleman tune "Song X" fed into AI software that attempts to output the song to a solo piano transcription. The outro music is the first 30 seconds of Sonny Rollins' version of the tune "St. Thomas" fed into the same software.

It’s Episode 99, and somehow Curtis and Jonathan accidentally synced their wavelengths… because this week is a full-on Toto takeover. Curtis kicks things off with what he calls the perfect Toto track—yes, for Episode 99—while Jonathan unknowingly brings a minor hit from Toto’s Isolation album. Pure podcast symmetry.In the category songs, Curtis digs up the original version of a Utopia track—the one that later became famous through a more mainstream cover—while Jonathan closes things out with an unexpecterd, narrative-rich story song by Buffy Sainte-Marie.Expect deep-cut trivia, arrangement talk, production nerdiness, and your weekly dose of “Why has no one else heard this before?”Featuring:Toto (x2, entirely by accident)Utopia – original version before the hit coverBuffy Sainte-Marie – story song excellenceA perfect episode for fans of deep-cut discoveries, yacht-rock adjacent gems, 70s/80s studio magic, and music-nerd rabbit holes.Curtis Gross is a self-employed video editor.Jonathan Workman is an adult learning consultant based in Wichita, KS.---Make sure you are subscribed to Why Is This So Hard For You. Type Why Is This So Hard For You in your podcast provider, hit that subscription button, and leave us a five-star review. This will make it easier for other podcast listeners to find the podcast.---The intro music is the first 30 seconds of the Ornette Coleman tune "Song X" fed into AI software that attempts to output the song to a solo piano transcription. The outro music is the first 30 seconds of Sonny Rollins' version of the tune "St. Thomas" fed into the same software.

This week on Why Is This So Hard For You, Curtis digs deep into the catalog with a smooth Steely Dan B-side, while Jonathan shines a light on a classic jazz standard performed by the phenomenal Kinga Glyk. Then in our category songs, we reach for the tissues with a Billy Crockett Tearjerker, and wrap things up with a surprisingly heartfelt Def Leppard cover from Matt Nathanson.Curtis Gross is a self-employed video editor.Jonathan Workman is an adult learning consultant based in Wichita, KS.---Make sure you are subscribed to Why Is This So Hard For You. Type Why Is This So Hard For You in your podcast provider, hit that subscription button, and leave us a five-star review. This will make it easier for other podcast listeners to find the podcast.---The intro music is the first 30 seconds of the Ornette Coleman tune "Song X" fed into AI software that attempts to output the song to a solo piano transcription. The outro music is the first 30 seconds of Sonny Rollins' version of the tune "St. Thomas" fed into the same software.

On this episode of Why Is This So Hard For You, Jonathan brings the soulful energy of Lake Street Dive, while Curtis reaches back for a heartfelt deep cut from Orleans—offered as a long-distance dedication. Then in our category songs, Jonathan revives the glory (and absurdity) of Rock and Wrestling Revisited, and Curtis closes with a wonderfully weird cover only Devo could deliver.Curtis Gross is a self-employed video editor.Jonathan Workman is an adult learning consultant based in Wichita, KS.---Make sure you are subscribed to Why Is This So Hard For You. Type Why Is This So Hard For You in your podcast provider, hit that subscription button, and leave us a five-star review. This will make it easier for other podcast listeners to find the podcast.---The intro music is the first 30 seconds of the Ornette Coleman tune "Song X" fed into AI software that attempts to output the song to a solo piano transcription. The outro music is the first 30 seconds of Sonny Rollins' version of the tune "St. Thomas" fed into the same software.

This week on Why Is This So Hard For You, Curtis opens with a lush, heartfelt track from Rumer’s newest album, while Jonathan showcases the melodic piano-pop charm of Jon McLaughlin. Then, in our category songs, we experience a full-blown Sonic Holocaust courtesy of Taco, before redeeming it all with a #1 In Our Hearts pick from the legends of Genesis.Curtis Gross is a self-employed video editor.Jonathan Workman is an adult learning consultant based in Wichita, KS.---Make sure you are subscribed to Why Is This So Hard For You. Type Why Is This So Hard For You in your podcast provider, hit that subscription button, and leave us a five-star review. This will make it easier for other podcast listeners to find the podcast.---The intro music is the first 30 seconds of the Ornette Coleman tune "Song X" fed into AI software that attempts to output the song to a solo piano transcription. The outro music is the first 30 seconds of Sonny Rollins' version of the tune "St. Thomas" fed into the same software.

On this episode of Why Is This So Hard For You, Jonathan kicks things off with a slick, jazz-infused tune from Monkey House, while Curtis brings the smooth, studio-polished sound of William Sikström. In our category songs, we get a stunning Jacob Collier cover of a James Taylor classic, followed by a true Worst of the ’70s offender from none other than Silver Convention.Curtis Gross is a self-employed video editor.Jonathan Workman is an adult learning consultant based in Wichita, KS.---Make sure you are subscribed to Why Is This So Hard For You. Type Why Is This So Hard For You in your podcast provider, hit that subscription button, and leave us a five-star review. This will make it easier for other podcast listeners to find the podcast.---The intro music is the first 30 seconds of the Ornette Coleman tune "Song X" fed into AI software that attempts to output the song to a solo piano transcription. The outro music is the first 30 seconds of Sonny Rollins' version of the tune "St. Thomas" fed into the same software.

On this episode of WITSHFY Curtis takes us into the deep cut weed with a song by Tomi Malm and Jonathan plays a song by the band Ripe. Then in the category songs Curtis plays a song that is #1 In Our Hearts by Robbie Dupree and Jonathan has a bizarre cover by Those Darn Accordions.Curtis Gross is a self-employed video editor.Jonathan Workman is an adult learning consultant based in Wichita, KS.---Make sure you are subscribed to Why Is This So Hard For You. Type Why Is This So Hard For You in your podcast provider, hit that subscription button, and leave us a five-star review. This will make it easier for other podcast listeners to find the podcast.---The intro music is the first 30 seconds of the Ornette Coleman tune "Song X" fed into AI software that attempts to output the song to a solo piano transcription. The outro music is the first 30 seconds of Sonny Rollins' version of the tune "St. Thomas" fed into the same software.

This week on Why Is This So Hard For You, Jonathan opens with a deep-cut ballad from Richard Marx, and Curtis follows with an intimate acoustic tune from Colin Hay. Then, in the category songs, Jonathan brings something that’s Completely Unnecessary in the best (or worst) way possible, while Curtis closes things out with a song so awkwardly Inappropriate you’ll wish you could unhear it...or maybe call the cops.Curtis Gross is a self-employed video editor.Jonathan Workman is an adult learning consultant based in Wichita, KS.---Make sure you are subscribed to Why Is This So Hard For You. Type Why Is This So Hard For You in your podcast provider, hit that subscription button, and leave us a five-star review. This will make it easier for other podcast listeners to find the podcast.---The intro music is the first 30 seconds of the Ornette Coleman tune "Song X" fed into AI software that attempts to output the song to a solo piano transcription. The outro music is the first 30 seconds of Sonny Rollins' version of the tune "St. Thomas" fed into the same software.

This week on Why Is This So Hard For You, Curtis kicks things off with a smooth 2011 track from Christopher Cross, and Jonathan follows with a groove-laden tune from Jeff Lorber. Then, in our category songs, we get hit right in the feels with a Harry Chapin Tear Jerker before turning up the funk for a Hot or Not 100 pick from Parliament.Curtis Gross is a self-employed video editor.Jonathan Workman is an adult learning consultant based in Wichita, KS.---Make sure you are subscribed to Why Is This So Hard For You. Type Why Is This So Hard For You in your podcast provider, hit that subscription button, and leave us a five-star review. This will make it easier for other podcast listeners to find the podcast.---The intro music is the first 30 seconds of the Ornette Coleman tune "Song X" fed into AI software that attempts to output the song to a solo piano transcription. The outro music is the first 30 seconds of Sonny Rollins' version of the tune "St. Thomas" fed into the same software.

This week we’re leaning into a country crossover vibe. Jonathan sets the tone with a heartfelt Kenny Rogers ballad, and Curtis follows it up with a moving ballad from Keith Urban. Then, in our category songs, Jonathan digs into a Record Breaker from The Police, while Curtis shares a soulful Allen Stone cover of a massive 2012 hit that gets a whole new life.Curtis Gross is a self-employed video editor.Jonathan Workman is an adult learning consultant based in Wichita, KS.---Make sure you are subscribed to Why Is This So Hard For You. Type Why Is This So Hard For You in your podcast provider, hit that subscription button, and leave us a five-star review. This will make it easier for other podcast listeners to find the podcast.---The intro music is the first 30 seconds of the Ornette Coleman tune "Song X" fed into AI software that attempts to output the song to a solo piano transcription. The outro music is the first 30 seconds of Sonny Rollins' version of the tune "St. Thomas" fed into the same software.