Podcast

Geeks and Beats Podcast, Episode 153: Don’t Stop Believin’

Wait. A whole show devoted to Journey’s ubiquitous megahit “Don’t Stop Believin’?” Are we insane? Maybe a little bit, but admit it: Everybody’s sung along with Steve Perry at some point in their lives. Probably even The Pope. You can’t go to a karaoke bar, turn on a TV, or, as Michael found out, do a home renovation without someone belting out the track. But why?

We turn to Alanis Morrisette producer Brent Bodrug to find out what it is about the structure of the composition, the nature of the lyrics, and the unusual choice in instruments that vaulted it into western culture …and he tells us what it is about the music industry that wouldn’t let the song out of the studio if it was recorded today.

The track came out in 1981, and there was a lot happening. We’ll look at what was going on in the minds of The Kids of 80s who still have the urge today to turn a hairbrush into a microphone one… more… time.

And I hope you’ll agree this week’s cover is adorable:

(co-producers Michael Boulet, Stephanie Hopkins, Kevin Waghorn)

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Alan Cross

is an internationally known broadcaster, interviewer, writer, consultant, blogger and speaker. In his 40+ years in the music business, Alan has interviewed the biggest names in rock, from David Bowie and U2 to Pearl Jam and the Foo Fighters. He’s also known as a musicologist and documentarian through programs like The Ongoing History of New Music.

Alan Cross has 39188 posts and counting. See all posts by Alan Cross

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