Riffs on Riffs

Evil Beep Mar 25, 2020

Back in the day, children would read stories at school during story time and would often hear the "beep" that would signify when the page should be turned. ELO's Evil Woman and The Pussycat Dolls' "Beep" are generations apart but both illustrate how they worked to turn the page in creativity, impact, and style. Join Joe and Toby as they wind through the connections between these tracks.

Ms. Jackson is OUT of Strawberries Mar 11, 2020

Truth be told, there is a bit of confusion about what exactly was sampled from Shuggie Otis' "Strawberry Letter 23" to help create Outkast's "Ms. Jackson"... But one thing that isn't up for debate is that both of these songs are hits and there's no time like the present to discuss these artists and their impact. Join Joe and Toby as they wind through the connections between these tracks.

I'd Rather Have Whiskey Feb 26, 2020

If given a choice between sipping whiskey and going blind, the answer is pretty clear. But when listening to Etta James' "I'd Rather Go Blind" and Chris Stapleton's cover of "Tennessee Whiskey", things get a little fuzzier. Join Joe and Toby as they wind through the connections between these two tracks.

We Have Bobby in Common Feb 12, 2020

Bobby Caldwell is a longtime crooner and someone that can rightfully say he's big in Japan. Bobby's classic track, "What You Won't Do for Love," is his most recognizable hit, but in this episode Joe and Toby show how Common sampled another Caldwell track, "Open Your Eyes," for his iconic song "The Light".

The Shape of a Scrub Jan 29, 2020

Ed Sheeran is a gifted songwriter and performer, but that hasn't prevented him from getting into hot water around sampling and interpolating other artist's material. Join Joe and Toby as they explore the similarities between Sheeran's "The Shape of You" and TLC's "No Scrubs." Along the way we'll take a look at the "Stairway to Heaven" copyright case and see how it impacts Ed Sheeran's financial future. Don't worry, he's going to be ok.

All Night Around The Way Jan 15, 2020

Before he went looking for an around the way girl, LL Cool J was just a boy with his radio, needing a beat. He became a legendary hip hop pioneer and entertainment mogul. The Mary Jane Girls were the brainchild of Rick James, and he lent his prodigious musical talents to tracks like All Night Long and In My House. Join Joe and Toby as they connect the dots between these artists.

My Brother Jonas is a Chicken Jan 01, 2020

You may know it as the chicken dance, but The Dance of the Little Bird was originally about ducks. Joe and Toby take a look at the origins of this oom-pah classic and demonstrate how it may have inspired The Jonas Brothers to create their latest hit, Only Human.

Everybody Loves My Life Dec 18, 2019

Roy Ayers Jr. has been called the Godfather of Neo Soul, and his Roy Ayers Ubiquity project was aptly named, as the track Everybody Loves the Sunshine has been a ubiquitous sample in hip hop history. Joe and Toby connect the dots to Mary J. Blige's second album and its title track, My Life.

Now That We Found Heavy Love Dec 04, 2019

Heavy D and the Boys had a smash hit in 1991 with Now That We Found Love, and Joe and Toby examine how this track interpolates the 1973 hit from the O'Jays with the same name. Join us as we follow Heavy D's career to full-fledged entertainment mogul and learn more about the soul group that had an enormous influence on future generations.

Born to Express Yourself Nov 20, 2019

Back long before Stefani Germanotta became Lady Gaga, Madonna was, well, Madonna. Joe and Toby examine how the Madonna song "Express Yourself" was inspiration — and some might argue more than that — for Lady Gaga's "Born This Way". Both artists have made an enormous impact on the pop culture landscape, extending their reach far beyond music. Madonna has done it for decades, and time will tell if Lady Gaga has the same staying power.

Regulate Your Doobie Nov 06, 2019

When it comes to the music business, Warren G hit the stepbrother lottery. But that doesn't mean he's not a monster talent in his own right. Joe and Toby explore how Warren G used Michael McDonald's "I Keep Forgettin" for his debut collaboration with Nate Dogg, "Regulate". Speaking of monster talents, Michael McDonald has one of the most recognizable voices in music. We'll take a listen to his work with Steely Dan, the Doobie Brothers, and as a solo artist. Mount up!

It's All Over Now, Jack-Ass Oct 23, 2019

We here at Riffs on Riffs, love a good musical rags to riches story. And this one comes from Beck Hansen, better known as "Beck," who went from couch-surfing and playing street corners, in subway cars, and coffee-houses, to becoming a household name in the early 90's. He's easily one of the most eclectic and ambitious singer-songwriters of the past two decades with his experimental style, and became known for creating musical collages of wide genre mixing. Joe & Toby dive into one of Beck's hits, "Jack-Ass" (1996), and trace it back to a more unknown song, "It's All Over Now, Baby Blue" (1966).

Should I Rock the Train in Vain? Oct 09, 2019

On this episode of Riffs on Riffs, Joe & Toby takes a deep dive into the world of punk-rock, with a spotlight on The Clash. As one of the greatest and most ambitious of the first-gen UK punk bands, it goes without saying that Clash's impact on society was huge... Big enough to lead a generation of disgruntled teenagers wearing studded belts, leather jackets and multi-colored mohawks into the stratosphere of global punk culture. It began with a White Riot in 1977 and ended in 1986 when the band split. With hit titles like 'Should I Stay or Should I Go,' 'Rock the Casbah,' 'London Calling,' and many more, Clash's eclectic catalog swept the world by storm… Also, welcome a special in-studio guest, Randal Doane, author of the book: Stealing All Transmissions: A Secret History of The Clash.

Ain't No Sunshine Last Summer Sep 25, 2019

Shawn Mendes has been one of the biggest names in pop for several years, but he's never been bigger than he is right now. After landing a #1 Billboard hit with five top ten hits, two Grammy nominations and four world tours - all by the ripe old age of 21, by the way - this Canadian pop star is giving Bieber a run for his money. Joe & Toby dive into one of Mendes' hit songs, "I Know What You Did Last Summer" (2015) featuring rising star, Camilla Cabello, and trace it back to a soulful 1971 tune by Bill Withers.

The Fall Out at Tom's Diner Sep 11, 2019

You can't mistake the pipe's on lead vocalist Patrick Stump, or their head banging, club jamming hits, their two #1 albums (among seven studio albums) or even their ridiculously sensational live shows … which all lead to the mega success of Fall Out Boy in the early 2000's. Fifteen years later, the pop-punk Gods are still going strong, and we love every skinny-jean-minute of it. Joe & Toby dig into one of FOB's top hits, "Centuries" (with 346 million Spotify plays) and trace back this tune to a 1990's indie-folk musician.

Riffs on Riffs Episode 28 Bloopers Aug 28, 2019

Enjoy this "ubiquitous" compilation of outtakes featuring hosts, Joe Watson and Toby Brazwell, which occurred during the making of Episode 28 "Bring the Noise" of Riffs on Riffs.

Bring the Noise Aug 28, 2019

You don't see much genre-mashing these days (sad face) so when metal group Anthrax hooked up with hip hop pioneers, Public Enemy in 1991… history was truly made. Producing a fresh, thrashed-up take on Public Enemy's 1988 single "Bring The Noise", the collaboration spawned a hit single, a groundbreaking tour and a sound that would change heavy music. Joe & Toby get into the cross-pollination of rap-rock and the slew of sampling behind this revolutionary track.

Bye Bye Til I See You Again Aug 14, 2019

From YouTube star to Billboard chart topper, Charlie Puth, the 27-year-old songbird from New Jersey shows no signs of stopping... And thanks to his feature (and co-penmanship) on Wiz Khalifa's "See You Again" (2015), he's now an international pop icon. Puth's collabs go on to include: Boyz II Men, Meghan Trainor, James Taylor, Jason Derulo, Lil Wayne, Selena Gomez, just to name a few. Joe & Toby dive into the music sample, albeit, as teeny-tiny as it is… it's pretty fantastic. You'd never guess Ray Charles was sprinkled throughout this Fast & Furious sensational song.

Summertime Madness Jul 31, 2019

In West Philadelphia, born and raised, is where DJ Jazzy Jeff & The Fresh Prince met each other at a house party and the rest was history. The American hip hop duo went from local gigs to super-stardom landing together on the sitcom, The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air and amassing global success with their five album releases from 1987 - 1993 earning them multiple Grammy wins and nominations. Joe & Toby dig into one of their mega hits, "Summertime" and trace it back to the celebrated 70's soul gang.

What we geek out over in this episode: Kool & the Gang, Miles Davis, tubas!, movie references: Pulp Fiction and Rocky, "Despacito" (2017), Toby's Slow Jamz Mixtape, Ruffles Potato Chips, the early years of DJ Jazzy Jeff & The Fresh Prince, Mike Tyson, and story-telling raps on the mic.

Bonus Material: Summertime hits! "Summer Breeze" from Seals & Crofts (1972), "Cruel Summer" by Bananarama (1984), Sly and the Family Stone's "Hot Fun in the Summertime" (1969), and Lana Del Rey's "Summertime Sadness" (2012) ft. Cedric Gervais remix.

The Rockman and the Rocketman Jul 17, 2019

There's not much room for mediocre in this episode as Joe & Toby explore two epic music icons in this episode of Riffs on Riffs. One, the 1970's rock band Boston, brought it more than 17 million dollars in sales, generating 3 top 40 hits from their self titled album - making the album the biggest selling debut in rock history. And two, the legendary Elton John released 30 albums, sold 300 million records, won 5 Grammys, a Tony, a Golden Globe and an Academy Award, among many successes across his 48 year reign. Riffs hosts discuss the sounds of Boston's "More Than A Feeling" and its original sample taken from Elton's 1973 hit song. Enjoy!

What we geek out over in this episode: Everything Elton John (a.k.a. Reg), bandmates Elton Dean and Long John Baldry (1966 Bluesology), Dr. Robotnik, lyricist Bernie Taupin, Tom Scholz & iconic band Boston, Polaroids & Hey Ya!, Mixolydian mode, and Samantha vs. Amanda.

Bonus Material: The great debut albums of 1976 … Play That Funky Music by Wild Cherry, American Girl by Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers and many more!

Getting Igor's Attention Jul 03, 2019

Joe and Toby connect the musical dots from Tyler, the Creator's hit track "Igor's Theme" (2019) and trace it back to a Paris-based 70's soul group. What we geek out over in this episode: Head West, Fleetwood Mac "Black Magic Woman" (1968) & "Oh Well" (1969), sounds of the 70's from "Sentimental Lady" (1972) and it's mondegreen, skateboards, Odd Future, Fruity Loops & Captain Crunch, horrorcore hip-hop music genre, and Tyler the Creator's hits, controversy and beyond.

Donny is Too Short Jun 19, 2019

If you can look past his lyrics, you'll find one of the most decorated artists in his genre when it comes to platinum and gold plaques. It's Los Angeles-born, Oakland-raised rapper Too $hort who can be credited with not only initiating the Bay Area's indie hip-hop scene as well as having a hand in the birth of crunk music. In his 30 years of music, Too $hort became one of the most celebrated rappers of the 90's and beyond, and has recorded 20 albums with collaborations all across the board: From Jay- Z, Tupac, Biggie, Scarface from the Geto Boys, and Lady Gaga... Not too bad! Joe and Toby connect the musical dots from Too $horts hit track "The Ghetto" (1990) and trace it back to an unforgettable 70's soul singer.

What we geek out over in this episode: NES (Nintendo Entertainment System) Controller and Metroid, multiple public service announcements, Donny Hathaway & Roberta Flack, "I Thank You Baby" (1969) with June Conquest, George Benson's cover of "The Ghetto" (2000), Leon Russell's "A Song For You" (1970) covers - grab a box of tissues! - including Ray Charles, DMX/Bizzy Bone and, of course, Donny Hathaway's version; "This Christmas" (1970), 'pushing the envelope;' and a plethora of hit records by the Oakland-raised rapper, Too $hort… and Richard Marx.

Bonus Material: "In the Ghetto" by Elivs Presley (1969)

The Shape of My Lucid Dreams Jun 05, 2019

In yet another genre-twisting episode of Riffs on Riffs, we'll connect the musical dots between breakout Chicago rapper, Juice WRLD, and the 1993 Sting sample that was used for his #2 Billboard hit, Lucid Dreams. A meshing of pop, rock and rap lends a sweet feel to what Juice WRLD is bringing to the table amidst the rise in new wave hip-hop. Get to know the talented and soulful musician, Juice WRLD, and his broken hearted melodies that sky-rocketed him through the musical stratosphere.

What we geek out over in this episode: Sting's Catalog, MC Nicknames, Sting sitting on a piano by accident during the recording of Roxanne, Queensryche, MC Milk Dee and Audio Two's Top Billin' (1988), and The Chainsmokers & Juice WRLD In My Head (2018).

Bonus Material: More Shape of My Heart song samples by Nas, Carl Thomas, and The Roots featuring Musiq Soulchild.

Old Town Ghosts May 22, 2019

In this episode of Riffs on Riffs, Joe & Toby discuss the rise of a Hip-Hop Cowboy, Lil Nas X, the 20-year-old rapper and internet savant behind the hip-hop-country crossover "Old Town Road." In yet another rags to riches/started from the bottom tale of stardom, Lil Nas X was a college dropout living on his sister's couch in Atlanta with a negative balance in his bank account. Now, he's crushed Drake's single-week streaming record and had the Number One song in the country for five weeks straight and there are no signs of stopping. Get ready for a genre-bending ride through this amazing episode of Riffs on Riffs with hints of country, rap, hip-hop and metal!

What we geek out over in this episode: Susie Stop Playin', Trent Reznor, Nothing Records, More Cowbell, Netflix's Bird Box, Iggy Pop's Nightclubbing (1977), Johnny Cash's cover of Hurt (2002), Country-Rap a.k.a. Hick-Hop, Ryan Upchurch track called Country Cut Celebrity (2018), Old Town Remix with Billy Ray Cyrus, and Bubba Sparxxx Country Folks (2013).

Bonus Material: Joe Watson's Mashup of Nothing Breaks Like a Heart (2019) featuring Miley Cyrus, and her dad's breakout hit, Billy Ray Cyrus' Achy Breaky Heart (1992). ENJOY!

Trans-European Hot Tubs May 08, 2019

Dubbed "The Beatles of electronic dance music" by The New York Times in 1997, Dusseldorf-based band Kraftwerk pioneered the genre, and some see them as the grandfathers of techno… and they did it without computers! From the most obscure indie rock to the most mainstream pop, and even hip-hop, all across the board, most music bears the impression of their invention; and by invention (i.e. materializing something out of thin air), Kraftwerk didn't just pioneer a genre. Until the moment "Autobahn" hit the airwaves in the autumn of 1974, nothing like it had ever existed. Let's dive into the mammoth 40-year reign of Kraftwerk and their impact on music.

What we geek out over in this episode: Well, Joe & Toby didn't exactly 'geek out' over their least favorite music genre - Electro-Pop - but here's a few highlights that YOU might geek over… Tranzmusik, Hot Tub Time Machine (the movie), Afrika Bambaataa and the Soulsonic Forces's Planet Rock (1982), Coldplay's Talk (2005), Timbaland's Bounce (2007) featuring Dr. Dre, Justin Timberlake & Missy Elliot, Blue Monday (1983) by New Order, Leave Home (1995) by The Chemical Brothers and Redman and Method Man collab How High (remix) (1995).

Bonus Material: Favorite 80's synth television theme songs! You know Knight Rider (1986) is on the docket for this one… ENJOY!

Pop Goes the Sledgehammer Apr 24, 2019

In this episode of Riffs on Riffs, Joe & Toby dive into one of the biggest hits, "Pop Goes The Weasel" (1991), from Brooklyn-based hip-hop trio 3rd Bass. Considered to be a ground-breaking group of the time in the 1980's, 3rd Bass was a mixed-race rap group who broke out in a pre-Eminem rap world. Learn more about talented artists behind 3rd Bass and where they nabbed the sounds for their greatest chart topping hit song. Hint: He's an iconic English musician who can really bring the Sledgehammer.

What we geek out over in this episode: The life and music of English singer-songwriter Peter Gabriel, Genesis, "Solsbury Hill" (1977), "In Your Eyes" (1986), hip-hop group 3rd Bass: MC Serch, Prime Minister Pete Nice, and DJ Richie Rich, Henry Rollins, The Who's "Eminence Front" (1982), Stevie Wonder's "You Haven't Done Nothin'" (1974), "Back to the Grill" (1992), and Non-Phixion's "Black Helicopters" (2004).

Bonus Material: Who Sampled Phil Collins' mega-hit and iconic drum fill from "In the Air Tonight"?

Be Careful of Exes Apr 10, 2019

She's hip-hop's current "it girl," plastered all over our televisions, can be heard in most of the current music on the Billboard Hot 100, has multiple Grammy nominees - and one win! - for her debut album Invasion of Privacy and can even be found in women's make up cabinets with a lucrative collaboration with fashion icon Tom Ford. The Cardi B effect is rippling throughout hip-hop and we can't seem to get enough this Bronx-born rapper. In this episode, Joe & Toby dive into one of Cardi B's chart-topping hits, "Be Careful" and connect the musical dots back to another iconic Grammy winning female artist of the 90's.

What we geek out over in this episode: The Fugees epic catalog of music, Lauryn Hill flubbing at the Apollo, Don McLean's "American Pie" (1971), 70's American Singer-Songwriter Lori Lieberman, a few Bob Marley hits, and (oddly enough) The Banana Splits TV show from the late 60's.

Bonus Material: 50 years of musical connections! Featuring Cardi B's sample of Ex Factor for Be Careful, Barbra Streisand "The Way We Were" (1973) to Gladys Knight's version and finally to Wu Tang Clan's "Can It Be All So Simple" (2009) to our featured song, Lauryn Hill's "Ex Factor."

Shooting Pains Mar 27, 2019

Every sporting event and arena in America has House of Pain to thank for its lasting contribution to hip-hop history with their 1992 crowd pleasing hit, "Jump Around." Even movies like Mrs. Doubtfire to Black Hawk Down and Bridget Jones' Baby, have utilized the energetic popularity to supplement their soundtracks. 27 years later we are all still jumping around to this jazzy-punk-hip hop mash-up of greatness. Joe and Toby discuss House of Pain members - Everlast, DJ Lethal & Danny Boy - and their musical connection to an American saxophonist and vocalist who recorded for Motown during the 1960s.

What we geek out over in this episode: Junior Walker and The All Stars, The Cosby Show theme song, Moonglows vs. Moondog, Record Producer and Singer Harvey Fuqua, "Harlem Shuffle" (1963) by Bob & Earl, 1950's American Singer Thurston Harris, ToeJam & Earl video game, Chubby Checker's "Popeye the Hitchhiker" (1962), DJ Muggs, and 'Chickity-check yo self before you wreck yo self'.

Bonus Material: Everlast and his success as a solo artist.

Oops Upside Your Funk Mar 13, 2019

Superstar DJ and British record producer Mark Ronson has earned both praise and popular success for his throwback, funk-influenced work with a range of diverse and international artists and musicians. From Amy Winehouse, Lady Gaga, Bruno Mars, Paul McCartney, to Adele, and more, Ronson has forged a trail of magnetic tunes, in his own right. In addition to winning Grammy Awards for Producer and Record of the Year, he also topped the charts with his fourth solo jaunt, Uptown Special, and its multi-platinum lead single, "Uptown Funk," which peaked at number one across the globe in 2015. Ronson, alongside lead vocal Bruno Mars, and a slew of additional song writers, took from the soul and funk sounds of the past to brew up a toe-tapping beat that everyone, all 3.5 billion YouTube views, thoroughly enjoyed!

What we geek out over in this episode: The Gap Band Albums II, III, IV, V, VI, etc!, the incomparable Charlie Wilson, Trinidad James "All Gold Everything" (2012), Collage "Young Girls" (1983), The Sequence "Funk You Up" (1979), Dua Lipa "Electricity" (2017), Miley Cyrus "Nothing Breaks Like a Heart" (2018) and Grammy & Oscar winning Lady Gaga/Bradley Cooper "Shallow" (2018).

Bonus Material: Who sampled The Gap Band "Yearning for Your Love" (1980)?

The Way to a Little Bit of Love Feb 27, 2019

She is one of the industry's leading princess' of pop with a trail of hits, world tour and a Grammy to prove it. In this episode Joe and Toby explore the music of pop sensation, Ariana Grande. Alongside her widely successful music career and string of chart-topping collaborations - from Iggy Azalea, the Weeknd and Nicki Minaj - to name a few, Grande performance goes beyond her infamous ponytail. It is safe to say her cheesy kids' sitcom days are over! It's time to hop in the time machine connect the music dots between Ariana Grande's 2013 hit "The Way" and a fellow ballad singer from 1979.

What we geek out over in this episode: The impressive power ballads of Brenda Russell, Nickelodeon's Victorious, "What's Up" by 4 Non Blondes (1992), Troglodytes (Cavemen), Rush 2112: Overture, Big Pun "Still Not a Player" featuring Joe (1998), and Ariana Grande dating debacles via TMZ style gossip.

Bonus Material: Jimmy Castor's Troglodytes (Cavemen) sample used by NWA, Christina Aguilera, Blackstreet, Lil' Kim & Phil Collins. Bonus, Bonus Material: "The Bertha Butt Boogie" by The Jimmy Castor Bunch.

I Know You Want a Street Player Feb 13, 2019

"Failure is the mother of all success," quotes multi-platinum recording artist and rapper, Armando "Pitbull" Perez. As someone who went from Miami street rapper to global brand ambassador, he fought and won the battle of 'starting from the bottom'. Pitbull has sold more than 70 million singles, has more than 67 million digital downloads, more than nine billion YouTube views, and has over 22 million Twitter followers and 59 million followers on Facebook. He's performed in over 50 countries for millions of people. It's no wonder they call him Mr. Worldwide. Joe & Toby take a look at one of Pitbull's mega hit's "I Know You Want Me" (2009) and connects the musical dots back to one of America's most prolific rock bands of all time.

What we geek out over in this episode: The legacy and music of Chicago, "25 Or 6 To 4" guitar chord progressions, "Street Player" by Rufus & Chaka Khan (1978), The Bucketheads "The Bomb" (1995), Nicola Fasano & Pat-Rich "75, Brazil Street" (2008), Anger Management Tour, Bad Boy Latino, and Pitbull's achievements, charity work and even some of his stage antics.

Bonus Material: Rufus & Chaka Khan influence and contribution to music.

True Memories of Bliss Jan 30, 2019

In this episode, Joe and Toby explore the groundbreaking 1988 hip-hop duo P.M. Dawn and their De La Soul-esque 'romantic hip-hop' infused catalog of music. The group, composed of Jersey City brothers Attrell Cordes, known as Prince Be, and brother Jarrett Cordes, who went by DJ Minutemix, earned enormous success for their stream of pop hits in the 1990's. The focus track, "Set Adrift on Memory Bliss" (1991) was P.M. Dawn's first (and only) number-one hit on the US Billboard Hot 100 and features a sample - everyone will recognize - from a memorable 80's British new wave pop band.

What we geek out over in this episode: The soul music genre, saxophone solos, Bob James "Take Me to the Mardi Gras" (1974) and Run-DMC "Peter Piper" (1986), Joni Mitchell "The Boho Dance" (1975), Christina Applegate, MC KRS-One "The Bridge is Over" (1987) & "South Bronx" (1986), and the Boomerang movie (1992).

Bonus Material: Soul Searchers "Ashley's Roachclip" drum break from their 1974 album Salt of the Earth and the popular songs that sampled this memorable drum loop.

People Say You're That Somebody Jan 16, 2019

Before her death at the young age of 22, Aaliyah had released three certified platinum albums, starred in two major film roles, launched the Timbaland and Missy Elliot revolution and became an innovator of the 90's generation R&B music scene. Joe and Toby reminisce on the life, legacy and music of Aaliyah, and the 70's funk band that inspired her Grammy nominated hit single "Are You That Somebody?" from the Dr. Doolittle soundtrack.

What we geek out over in this episode: New Orleans second line, Aaliyah's hits, history of the baby coo, Record Producer Timothy 'Timbaland' Mosley, Jodeci, and the music of Record Producer Allen Toussaint.

Bonus Material: New Orleans sound: the Neville Brothers, Aaron Neville "Everybody Plays the Fool" (1991), Galactic feat. Cyril Neville "You Don't Know" (2011) and Dumpstaphunk.

Nothing Alone Can Stop Me Jan 02, 2019

From couch-surfer dropping EP's on Soundcloud to one of the hottest pop acts in the world, Halsey summits Spotify with ease, leaving behind her troubled past for a promising (and chart topping) future. Joe and Toby dive into the life and music of Halsey and her rise to the top. This includes a look back at another prominent female vocalists from the 1960's and the sample from her not-so-well known song that inspired Halsey's 2018 hit track "Alone."

What we geek out over in this episode: Power duo Marilyn McCoo & Billy Davis Jr. and The 5th Dimension, "Aquarius/Let the Sunshine In" (1969), roller skating, R&B singer Jaheim "Could It Be" (2001), Terror Squad "Nothing's Gonna Stop Me" (2004), rapper/producer Black Milk "Shut It Down" (2007), and chipmunk soul.

Bonus Material: Iconic singer/songwriter Laura Nyro who penned several songs for The 5th Dimension, leaving a trail of hits that would impact the musical landscape of the 1960's and beyond.

Biggie Sheets Dec 19, 2018

In this episode, Joe and Toby explore some of the most iconic hip hop tracks of the 1990's including, one of the greats, "Big Poppa" by The Notorious B.I.G. Unbeknownst to most of the world, this grammy nominated hit song, featured a not-so-well-known sample from a 1983 soul/funk group. This group created a ripple throughout time, inspiring many artists, from Gwen Stefani to Chance the Rapper, turning their legendary sounds into chart topping hits. So, if you are a fan of hip hop and love being surprised, this one's for you. What we geek out over in this episode: The Beatles "Twist & Shout" (1963), Jimi Hendrix "Testify" (1964), "Sexual Healing" music video, Da Brat "Funkdafied" (1994), Whitney Houston "One Of Those Days" (2002), Gwen Stefani "Luxurious" (2005), Jay-Z "Ignorant Sh*!" (2007), Mac Miller "Good Evening" (2010)

Bonus Material: Ice Cube "It Was A Good Day" (1993) samples Isley Brothers "Footsteps in the Dark" (1977)

The Tom Tom Fantasy Dec 05, 2018

Mariah Carey's career - just shy of the 30-year mark - is a formidable force and one that still caps the Billboard charts. The recent release (Dec. 1) of her 15th studio album, Caution, acquired her eighth No. 1 on Billboard's Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums chart (trailing only Mary J. Blige and Aretha Franklin, both with 10 chart-topping sets; and The Temptations leading with 16 No. 1s.)

The mighty Mariah Carey proves that the power of a pop star knows no bounds. Before Beyoncé and Jay-Z's "Crazy in Love" 2003 collab, there was Mariah Carey and ODB's 1996 smash hit, "Fantasy". The New York Times calls it, "Mariah revolutionizing the blend between high-octane pop and hip-hop/rap." This statement is spot on, with over 50 collaborations with rappers over her career and beyond. Join hosts, Joe and Toby as they revel in the crazy vocal acrobatics of "Fantasy" and the 1980's new wave tune that inspired the 1995 mega hit. What we geek out over in this episode: Andre "Dr. Jeckyll" Harrell and Alonzo "Mr. Hyde" Brown - "The Champagne Of Rap," "It's Nasty" (Genius of Love) by Grandmaster Flash and The Furious Five (1981), Mark Morrison, Burger King's Return of The Mac N' Cheetos, Hanson, Erykah Badu, and a colorful analyzation of ODB(isms).

Bonus Material: Yo Gabba Gabba

The Hamilton Hip-Hop Mixtape Nov 21, 2018

Hamilton, the theatrical powerhouse and a fixture of contemporary American culture, is the spotlight of Riffs on Riffs episode eight. This collision of American history, rap and hip-hop infused musical phenomenon, won 11 Tony awards in 2016 and continues to sell out shows across the United States. Joe and Toby enthusiastically explore Hamilton creator Lin-Manuel Miranda's musical inspiration and how the songs and artists he grew up listening to are directly referenced throughout the show. As Mr. Miranda pays homage to the hip-hop greats, we too, celebrate the wonders of music sampling that created this miraculous thing called Hamilton.

What we geek out over in this episode: East Coast hip hop group Mobb Deep, Prolific rapper Big Pun, Notorious B.I.G., Grandmaster Flash and the Furious Five, DMX, Pirates of Penzance, and South Pacific the Musical.

Bonus Material: The Hamilton Mixtape of selected songs and remakes from the musical featuring Kelly Clarkson, Sia, Miguel & Queen Latifah.

When Doves Pray Nov 14, 2018

It takes a village to raise rap's first-ever Diamond-seller. To help send his breakout album over the platinum hurdle, hip-hop artist MC Hammer enlisted - via sample and interpolation - Rick James, Marvin Gaye, The Chi-Lites, The Jackson 5, Earth, Wind & Fire, Sly & the Family Stone, James Brown (twice) and Prince (three times). It truly is no wonder Please Hammer, Don't Hurt 'Em (released in 1990) has sold over 22 million units to date - more than 2Pac's Greatest Hits and Notorious B.I.G. Life After Death albums combined!

In this episode, Joe and Toby dive into the prolific life of Prince and how his music helped hammer a career path for a former bat boy of the Oakland A's. Purple fragments of Prince's "When Doves Cry" scatter throughout time, including MC Hammer's "Pray" and many more.

What we geek out over in this episode: Purple Rain (obviously), Kim Basinger (circa Batman), Larry Graham and the slap bass technique, Genuwine, George Clinton's Parliament "Give Up the Funk" (1975), and Faith No More's "Epic" (1989) song.

Bonus Material: Drum machines: Chamberlin Rhythmate, Wurlitzer Sideman, PAIA Programmable drum set, Linn LM-1 drum machine, and the Roland TR-808.

Double Bonus: The Metallica Cover "When Doves Cry" Intervention.

Thank You for Sittin' In My Rhythm Nation Nov 07, 2018

In the midst of breaking out from behind her family's shadow and deeply wanting to communicate something meaningful in the face of great pressure to conform to corporate formulas, Janet Jackson released her iconic fourth studio album - Rhythm Nation 1814. (At the age of just 23 years old, mind you!) This landmark album fused Jackson's personal and political voice together, creating a cultural ripple effect that broke down race barriers and shook the respective social divide. Joe and Toby hail the greatness of her record breaking hit song, "Rhythm Nation," while digging through the past to find its original sound.

What we geek out over in this episode: Bootsy Collins (again), Shrek the Third, powerhouse songwriters Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis, Janet Jackson's mystery daughter, Babyface, and the hit movie & soundtrack Waiting to Exhale.

Bonus Material: Additional Sly and the Family Stone samples and covers - "You Can Make It If You Try" (1969) sampled by Ice Cube; "If You Want Me To Stay" (1973) covered by Snoop Dogg and Red Hot Chili Peppers

Look, You Made Me Too Sexy Oct 31, 2018

Whether you love this song or hate it, it's impossible not to sing along to the catchy Taylor Swift chorus, "Look What You Made Me Do." And the reason for this is pretty clear... From the moment she exclaims "ooh!" and barrels into the taunting token chorus, the words to another song start to come to mind – or – are unearthed from deep inside your subconscious memory somewhere with the 90's hit movie "Encino Man." Either way, this is not a conspiracy people: the T-Swizzle team snatched a popular rhythm (legally, that is!) and turned it into a song that broke the record for the most plays in a single day on Spotify.

In this episode, Joe and Toby dive into the rhythmic elements of Taylor's 2017 hit single from her "Reputation" album before hopping into a musical time machine: From pop princess to 90's British Euro-Pop duo to Woodstock. It's an exciting exploration of music sampling that pinpoints three genres and spans across three decades of music's most iconic artists.

What we geek out over in this episode: The Female Preacher, Bobby Byrd, The Animals, flippin' the Stratocaster, and (with great enthusiasm) Taylor Swift feuds.

Bonus Material: Woo! Yeah! break from Lyn Collins' 1972 recording "Think (About It)" was sampled over 2000 times in music. We just take a look at a few: Rob Base & DJ EZ Rock, Alanis Morissette, Boyz II Men, The Black Eyed Peas and more.

99 Problems and a Big Fire Ain't One Oct 24, 2018

The Black Album came out on a Friday - three weeks early due to a leak. It was a bittersweet moment for Jay-Z fans across the world seeing as though it was advertised as his final album before retiring. No need for suspense, because we all now what happened next... the retirement was short lived, thank the Rap Gods. We are still living in the era of that reversed decision, receiving hits for more than a decade, particularly every Bey and Jay collaboration from "Drunk in Love" to the "On the Run II" World Tour. But The Black Album left its mark with the controversial hit single "99 Problems," and that's our lead for this episode of Riffs on Riffs.

The song snagged a pounding drum beat, provided by mega-hit Producer Rick Rubin and his trademark sound. From there, Joe and Toby trace this infamous drum beat back to the 80's where big hair and music videos made a splash, or even sunk. Either way, it's a beat that has been sampled over 280 times in rock, hip-hop and beyond. With the help of Jay-Z, Alicia Keys and many more, the drum riff that shook the 80's got the credit it finally deserved.

What we geek out over in this episode: bad music videos, Gremlins, answer songs, Jay-Z singles, "Mississippi Queen", Rick Rubin, and bongos.

Bonus Material: NAS "Hip Hop is Dead", Iron Butterfly, Incredible Bongo Band "In-A-Gadda-Da-Vida" and DJ Danger Mouse's The Grey Album.

Underdog Ain't Nuthin' to Mess With Oct 16, 2018

Wu-Tang Clan, a group of nine supremely talented and stylistically diverse rappers – Ghostface Killah, GZA, Inspectah Deck, Masta Killa, Method Man, Raekwon, RZA, U-God and the now-deceased Ol' Dirty Bastard – changed the hip hop game, forever. Not just in music, but in the music business. Wu-Tang was a financial movement as much as it was a music movement.

Today Joe and Toby rewind back to the inspiration for "Wu-Tang Clan Ain't Nuthin' To Mess With," back before we all walked around in our Wu Wear shirts and hoodies, to a famous cartoonist. Enter W. Watts Biggers. This man created a cartoon character for General Mills to sell cereal; the character's theme song hatched a riff used by hip hop artists, R&B singers, and guitar legends for decades to come.

What we geek out over in this episode: Cheerios, ASR-10 sampling keyboard, the Serato technology, Rihanna's music videos, and THE Carlos Santana.

Bonus Material: "Runaway Love" Remix by Justin Bieber feat. Raekwon & Kanye West.

Note to PETA: There were no squirrels harmed in the making of this podcast.

The Edge of Police Booty Oct 16, 2018

Stevie Nicks – the woman who has dominated the music scene for almost four decades as the front woman of Fleetwood Mac and chart-topping solo artist – bow to her we must. Especially for bringing us the heart pounding 80's hit, "Edge of Seventeen" with that stylish intro guitar riff. Joe and Toby trace the origins of this song back to a legendary English rock band that everyone will recognize. Yet, not everyone knows that the iconic sound from Stevie's infamous track was actually sampled from this famed mystery group. Even Destiny's Child takes this riff for a spin in today's podcast.

What we geek out over in this episode: "White Reggae," sting operations, drum sounds of the 70's, and Kelly Rowland.

Bonus Material: Mondegreens and the Queen's weeyoos.

Note to Mondegreen Beginner: "I pledge a legion to the frog of the United States of America, and to the wee puppet for witch's hands. One Asian, in the vestibule, with little tea and just rice for all."

California Woman Oct 16, 2018

It's that head bobbin' beat we all jammed out to in the summer of '96 as Tupac Shakur went straight from a jail cell to the top of the charts. Joe and Toby unpack the intro riff to Tupac's "California Love" and retrace its steps all the way back to one of the rock n' roll icons from the Woodstock era, in order to find its original tune. You can't talk about Tupac without mentioning west coast hip-hop. You'll get a mini music history lesson, highlighting influences of the eras, including Ultramagnetic MC's, EPMD, Bernard Purdie (legendary funk musician and drummer), and Roger Troutman (notable composer/producer and Zapp frontman) also known as "the guy" who popularized the talk box.

What we geek out over in this episode: Funk legends, Bootsy and "The One", and the GEICO lemonade commercial with Ice-T. Bonus Material: Talk box. Do you feel….like we do?

Season 1 Trailer Oct 01, 2018

Get a little taste of what's in store for Season 1 of Riffs of Riffs. Join musicians, Joe Watson and Toby Brazwell, as they put the spin on original and sampled tracks. From Joe Cocker to Prince, from Alicia Keys to Stevie Nicks, you'll love discovering how your favorite tunes got their sound. Subscribe now on your favorite podcast app, and you'll get the first 3 episodes on October 17th. Learn more at EvergreenPodcasts.com.

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