Podcast Summary: "Takin' a Walk" – Episode: This Week in Music History 6-30

Hosted by Buzz Knight, with Contributions from Harry Jacobs and Ryan Seacrest Release Date: June 30, 2025

Introduction

In this engaging episode of the "Takin' a Walk" Music History on Foot podcast, host Buzz Knight takes listeners on a nostalgic journey through significant moments in music history that occurred around the week of June 30th. Joined by music historian Harry Jacobs and special guest Ryan Seacrest, the episode delves deep into iconic releases, band milestones, and influential events that have shaped the musical landscape over the decades.

June 30th: A Week of Milestones

1. 1969: Fleetwood Mac & Peter Green Release "Oh Well"

At the outset of the week, Buzz Knight highlights the release of Fleetwood Mac's "Oh Well," a track co-written by Peter Green that has become a staple for guitar enthusiasts.

• Ryan Seacrest praises the song's enduring legacy:
  "It's one of those necessities for guitar players if you're a blues band."
  [03:00]

• Harry Jacobs emphasizes Peter Green's underrated contributions:
  "Oh, well, he was greatly underappreciated."
  [03:24]

The discussion includes a fun trivia segment where listeners are quizzed on bands that have covered "Oh Well," sparking a playful exchange between Seacrest and Jacobs.

2. 1975: The Eagles Release "One of These Nights"

The Eagles' departure from their country-rock roots is a focal point, marking a significant shift in their musical style with the release of "One of These Nights."

• Ryan Seacrest reflects on the genre transition:
  "That’s not a country rock sounding song at all to me."
  [04:15]

• Harry Jacobs adds depth by discussing the song as an anthem born out of the band's experiences:
  "All great music comes out of misery, but it’s a great one."
  [04:40]

The hosts explore how this release influenced the band's trajectory and its reception among fans.

3. July 1, 1967: The Beatles’ "Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band" Reaches Number One

Celebrating The Beatles' groundbreaking album, the hosts discuss its impact on music history and its role in pushing creative boundaries.

• Harry Jacobs credits producer George Martin’s role:
  "I think he was integral."
  [09:45]

• Ryan Seacrest elaborates on the evolution of The Beatles' sound:
  "It was not a long time before they changed their sound."
  [09:56]

The conversation underscores the album's innovative production and lasting legacy.

4. 1979: Debut of the Sony Walkman

The introduction of the Sony Walkman revolutionized personal music consumption, a topic the hosts explore with personal anecdotes and reflections on technological advancements.

• Ryan Seacrest reminisces:
  "We were making mix tapes and dropping them into the Walkman. So crazy."
  [10:16]

• Harry Jacobs agrees on its transformative impact:
  "It was breakthrough time for sure."
  [10:58]

They discuss how the Walkman changed the way listeners engaged with music on the go.

5. 1983: Jon Bon Jovi Signs with Mercury Records

Marking the rise of one of rock’s enduring figures, Jon Bon Jovi's signing with Mercury Records is highlighted as a pivotal moment.

• Ryan Seacrest comments on the significance:
  "He signed with Mercury Records, setting the stage for that debut album in '84."
  [11:03]

• Harry Jacobs shares a memorable story about Bon Jovi’s charisma:
  "He’s just friendly and affable... Joining the wedding band for 'Living on a Prayer' was fun."
  [12:04]

The segment underscores Bon Jovi's early career moves and their impact on his future success.

6. July 2, 1969: Disbanding of The Jimi Hendrix Experience

The tragic end of The Jimi Hendrix Experience is discussed, focusing on Noel Redding's departure and the band's subsequent dissolution.

• Harry Jacobs speculates on the tensions leading to the split:
  "Gotta think the tempers flared and... they regretted it all."
  [13:22]

• Ryan Seacrest adds context about substance issues:
  "There was substance involved across all fronts."
  [15:00]

This reflection offers insight into the personal and professional challenges faced by the band members.

7. 1971: Queen’s First Concert with Iconic Lineup

Queen's debut performance featuring Freddie Mercury, Brian May, Roger Taylor, and John Deacon is celebrated as the genesis of their legendary status.

• Harry Jacobs notes the rarity of such early performances:
  "This was the first event for them in public ever."
  [13:38]

• Ryan Seacrest shares personal regrets about not witnessing certain performances:
  "I regret that I saw him with Adam Lambert..."
  [14:02]

The discussion touches upon Queen's evolution and the enduring legacy of its members.

8. 1980: Bob Marley and the Wailers Begin Final Tour

The commencement of Bob Marley’s last tour is a poignant moment, highlighting his unawareness of his terminal illness.

• Ryan Seacrest reflects on Marley's legacy:
  "Kind of mind blowing when you think about it, really."
  [14:49]

• Harry Jacobs concurs on the emotional weight:
  "Absolutely."
  [14:36]

This segment honors Marley’s contributions and the bittersweet nature of his final tour.

9. 1977: Vladimir Novikov’s Death Inspires "Don't Stand So Close to Me" by The Police

The hosts explore the inspiration behind The Police's hit song, linking it to the tragic death of Vladimir Novikov.

• Ryan Seacrest explains the connection:
  "It's a song about a creeper on a little girl."
  [15:12]

• Harry Jacobs acknowledges the lyrical depth:
  "Yeah, it's a creeper song."
  [15:13]

This analysis delves into the storytelling prowess of The Police in addressing sensitive themes.

10. 1969 & 1971: Deaths of Brian Jones and Jim Morrison

Reflecting on the notorious 27 Club, the episode discusses the untimely deaths of Brian Jones of The Rolling Stones and Jim Morrison of The Doors.

• Ryan Seacrest connects the timing of Jones’ death to internal band tensions:
  "He was fired right before he drowned in his pool."
  [15:47]

• Harry Jacobs speculates on Morrison’s alleged survival:
  "I believe he's living near Sturbridge Village..."
  [16:15]

The conversation underscores the enduring mysteries and tragedies surrounding these iconic artists.

Additional Highlights

1986: U2 Begins Recording "The Joshua Tree"

The recording of U2’s seminal album "The Joshua Tree" is celebrated for its profound impact on the band’s career and the music industry.

• Ryan Seacrest reminisces about the album's success:
  "The Joshua Tree... every song, a great song on it."
  [16:46]

• Harry Jacobs shares insights into Bono’s stage presence:
  "I love the music, but those glasses that Bono wears... It's too much."
  [17:16]

The hosts discuss the album's influence and the iconic imagery associated with U2.

1970: The Who at the Atlanta Pop Festival

The Who’s performance at the Atlanta Pop Festival is highlighted as a significant event, featuring tracks from their early albums.

• Harry Jacobs fondly recalls:
  "It's terrific. I remember backselling it and screwing it up royally almost every time."
  [17:46]

• Ryan Seacrest adds humor regarding song titles:
  "It sounds like you're saying something filthy, but you're not."
  [17:54]

This segment celebrates The Who’s energetic performances and their contribution to rock history.

1982: Ozzy Osbourne Marries Sharon Arden

The marriage of Ozzy Osbourne to Sharon Arden is discussed, emphasizing Sharon's pivotal role in managing Ozzy’s career post-marriage.

• Ryan Seacrest outlines Sharon’s influence:
  "She continues to manage him and has done very well by him."
  [18:18]

• Harry Jacobs humorously notes Sharon's dedication:
  "She said, 'All aboard. I'm getting on the Ozzy crazy train.'"
  [18:21]

The partnership's impact on Ozzy’s sustained success is examined.

1975: Pink Floyd Performs at the Nebworth Festival

Pink Floyd’s performance at the Nebworth Festival, featuring Roy Harper, is highlighted as a unique moment in their early career.

• Ryan Seacrest discusses the rarity of guest appearances:
  "Pink Floyd did not have a lot of folks ever really join them."
  [19:15]

• Harry Jacobs anticipates listener reactions:
  "We know someone will let us know, 'Hey, you idiots. He did this or that with Pink Floyd.'"
  [19:31]

This segment underscores Pink Floyd’s distinct approach to performances and collaborations.

1991: Guns N' Roses Releases "You Could Be Mine"

The release of "You Could Be Mine" as part of the "Terminator 2" soundtrack is celebrated for its cultural resonance and enduring popularity.

• Ryan Seacrest connects the song to its cinematic context:
  "You Could Be Mine was featured in 'Terminator 2.'"
  [19:59]

• Harry Jacobs reminisces about early experiences with the song:
  "After seeing that movie, thinking what a song that is."
  [20:40]

The discussion highlights the synergy between rock music and blockbuster films.

1943 & Beyond: Robbie Robertson’s Contributions

The episode pays tribute to Robbie Robertson, emphasizing his influence as The Band’s guitarist and songwriter.

• Harry Jacobs shares personal anecdotes about interviews with Robertson:
  "He was always very amenable to doing things and transparent about stories."
  [21:40]

• Ryan Seacrest compliments Robertson’s vocal qualities:
  "Mellifluous voice. Deep and raspy."
  [24:18]

This segment celebrates Robertson’s artistic legacy and personal contributions to music.

1964 & 1973: The Beatles and Queen’s Early Releases

The release of The Beatles’ film "A Hard Day’s Night" and Queen’s debut album are discussed, highlighting their impact on their respective bands' trajectories.

• Harry Jacobs appreciates "Keep Yourself Alive" by Queen:
  "That's a great one."
  [24:59]

• Ryan Seacrest shares a humorous take on recording techniques:
  "Brian May uses a quarter to get his unique sound."
  [25:03]

The hosts explore the innovative approaches these bands took in their early works.

1985: Phil Collins Releases "No Jacket Required"

Phil Collins’ successful solo album is examined, alongside his work with Genesis and Brand X.

• Ryan Seacrest admits mixed feelings about Collins’ pop hits:
  "I was never a fan of the schmaltzy Phil Collins."
  [26:21]

• Harry Jacobs defends Collins’ diverse body of work:
  "Great respect for Phil and his body of work."
  [26:43]

The conversation highlights Collins’ versatility as an artist and his contributions to various musical projects.

Conclusion

The episode concludes with reflections on the rich tapestry of music history covered throughout the week. From legendary song releases and groundbreaking albums to the personal stories of iconic artists, Buzz Knight, Harry Jacobs, and Ryan Seacrest offer listeners a comprehensive and entertaining look back at pivotal moments that continue to influence the music world today.

Notable Quotes Highlighted:

• "It's one of those necessities for guitar players if you're a blues band." – Ryan Seacrest [03:00]
• "Oh, well, he was greatly underappreciated." – Harry Jacobs [03:24]
• "That's a great rock song, kind of an anthem in its own regard." – Harry Jacobs [04:40]
• "It was breakthrough time for sure." – Ryan Seacrest [10:58]
• "She said, 'All aboard. I'm getting on the Ozzy crazy train.'" – Harry Jacobs [18:21]

This detailed summary encapsulates the vibrant discussions and insightful analyses presented in the episode, offering a thorough overview for both avid listeners and newcomers to the "Takin' a Walk" podcast.