1388 Episodes

  1. How The Beach Boys' "Kokomo" Became a Surprise #1 Hit Despite the Backlash

    Published: 8/14/2023

  2. The Hidden Meaning Behind Prince’s "Let’s Go Crazy"—Did It Predict His Fate?

    Published: 8/12/2023

  3. The Story Behind the "Footloose" Soundtrack: How Dean Pitchford Helped Create 7 Hits

    Published: 8/11/2023

  4. How a Session Guitarist Transformed Steely Dan’s "Reelin’ in the Years" into a 70s Classic

    Published: 8/10/2023

  5. Interview with Mike Reno: How Loverboy’s "Turn Me Loose" Overcame Rejection to Become an 80s Classic

    Published: 8/9/2023

  6. How Paul Simon’s "You Can Call Me Al" Revitalized His Career and Sparked Controversy

    Published: 8/8/2023

  7. Why Simple Minds Disowned Their Biggest Hit, "Don’t You (Forget About Me)"

    Published: 8/7/2023

  8. How Yes Revived Their Career with "Owner of a Lonely Heart"—A Song Written in the Bathroom

    Published: 8/5/2023

  9. How Supertramp’s "The Logical Song" Defied Doubt and Sold 20 Million Copies

    Published: 8/4/2023

  10. Randy Meisner’s Defining Moment with the Eagles: The Story Behind "Take It to the Limit"

    Published: 8/3/2023

  11. Interview with Mike Ness of Social Distortion: From Homelessness to Gold Records

    Published: 8/2/2023

  12. How Metallica’s Most Personal Song Became Their Biggest Hit

    Published: 8/1/2023

  13. Dan Fogelberg’s Tribute to His Father: The Story of Leader of the Band

    Published: 7/31/2023

  14. How Bryan Adams’ "Cuts Like a Knife" Launched Him to Stardom

    Published: 7/29/2023

  15. How Queen Turned an Insult Into "We Will Rock You"

    Published: 7/28/2023

  16. Interview with The Motels: The Story Behind "Only the Lonely" and Their 22-Year Disappearance

    Published: 7/27/2023

  17. Interview with Nik Kershaw: The Story of "Wouldn't It Be Good" and Its 80s Legacy

    Published: 7/26/2023

  18. Interview with Kevin Cronin: The Story Behind REO Speedwagon's "Take It on the Run"

    Published: 7/25/2023

  19. How Tears for Fears Defied Industry Pressure and Took "Shout" to #1

    Published: 7/24/2023

  20. How Heart’s Comeback Led to Their First #1 with "These Dreams"

    Published: 7/22/2023

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The ultimate rock music history podcast for fans of the greatest era of music. If you’ve ever wondered about the true stories behind your favorite songs, or wanted to hear directly from the legends who made them, Professor of Rock is your new go-to podcast. Hosted by music historian and superfan Adam Reader, this show brings the golden era of music back to life with exclusive interviews, behind-the-scenes stories, and deep dives into the songs that shaped our lives. This podcast uncovers how timeless tracks were made, the creative breakthroughs, the near-breakups, and the powerful moments that defined music history. Each episode is a masterclass in rock culture and nostalgia—whether it's a chart-topping ‘80s anthem, a one-hit wonder with a wild backstory, or a candid conversation with the legends themselves. Hear the Stories. Relive the Music. Only on Professor of Rock.