This Week in Music History on the "takin ' a walk" podcast 2/3

Summary

Podcast Summary: "This Week in Music History" on takin’ a Walk
Host: Buzz Knight
Guest: Harry Jacobs
Release Date: February 3, 2025

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Introduction

In the February 3, 2025 episode of takin’ a Walk, host Buzz Knight teams up with longtime friend and musicologist Harry Jacobs to delve into significant events in music history that occurred during the first week of February. The duo explores pivotal moments, legendary artists, and personal anecdotes that have shaped the musical landscape.

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The Day the Music Died – February 3, 1959

Buzz Knight: "This is a huge day in music. Buddy Holly, Richie Valens, the Big Bopper, all on a plane that went down near Cedar Lake, Iowa, impacted music greatly on that day." ([02:57])

Buzz and Harry commemorate the tragic plane crash that claimed the lives of three influential musicians, marking a pivotal moment in rock 'n' roll history. They discuss how this event was immortalized by Don McLean in his classic song "American Pie," emphasizing its lasting impact on the music world.

Harry Jacobs: "Big. I love the Big Bopper." ([03:23])

Harry reflects on the individual talents of those lost, particularly the Big Bopper, highlighting the personal connections musicians often feel toward their heroes.

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Phil Spector’s Arrest – February 3, 2003

Turning to a darker chapter in music history, Buzz and Harry discuss the arrest of legendary producer Phil Spector in connection with Lana Clarkson's shooting death.

Harry Jacobs: "Phil Spector was arrested in connection with the shooting death of Lana Clarkson on this day in Los Angeles... He abused women and now he's incarcerated." ([03:33])

They delve into Spector's significant contributions to music, including his innovative "Wall of Sound" technique, juxtaposed with his personal turmoil and criminal actions, painting a complex picture of his legacy.

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U2’s Return to the Sphere – February 4, 2025

The conversation shifts to contemporary events, specifically U2’s highly anticipated return to the Sphere in Las Vegas.

Buzz Knight: "You don't really need to see it because of everything in the background. It's pretty crazy." ([05:52])

They explore the unique concert experience at the Sphere, comparing it to traditional performances and discussing the immersive nature of U2’s shows. Buzz shares his personal ambition to attend, highlighting U2's enduring influence.

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Fleetwood Mac’s "Rumors" Anniversary – February 4, 1977

Celebrating the release anniversary of Fleetwood Mac’s iconic album "Rumors," Buzz and Harry reflect on its profound impact.

Harry Jacobs: "That's undeniably one of the great ones... It's one of those that's in my phone on my playlist." ([06:27])

They discuss how "Rumors" continues to resonate with listeners, its timeless appeal, and its role in shaping modern music playlists and trends, including its resurgence through social media phenomena.

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Smothers Brothers’ CBS Debut – February 5, 1967

The duo reminisces about the Smothers Brothers' groundbreaking debut on CBS, noting their blend of humor and social commentary during the Vietnam War era.

Buzz Knight: "They were trailblazers, no doubt. They were irreverent." ([07:21])

Harry adds that their unique comedic style, characterized by sarcasm and subtlety, still holds up today, underscoring their lasting influence on comedy and music entertainment.

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Paul McCartney and Wings – February 5, 1972

Focusing on Paul McCartney’s post-Beatles career, Buzz and Harry discuss his formation of Wings and the duality of his musical endeavors.

Harry Jacobs: "He worked for two different formats when he went solo." ([11:28])

They analyze McCartney's versatility in producing both pop-oriented tracks like "Silly Love Songs" and rock anthems such as "Live and Let Die," illustrating his ability to bridge different musical genres successfully.

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Major Halftime Shows and Super Bowl Performances – February 6, 2006

The topic of legendary Super Bowl halftime performances surfaces, with a particular focus on Paul McCartney's 2006 appearance.

Harry Jacobs: "Paul McCartney played Super Bowl 40 halftime show... It was a turn in terms of Super Bowl entertainment." ([07:50])

Buzz and Harry compare McCartney’s performance to other iconic acts, reflecting on how artists like Bruce Springsteen also left their mark with memorable and sometimes unconventional performances.

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Billy Idol’s Motorcycle Accident – February 6, 1990

The conversation takes a somber turn as they recount Billy Idol’s severe motorcycle accident and its impact on his career.

Harry Jacobs: "Billy Idol got hurt... Gary Busey was never the same." ([08:54])

They discuss the risks artists face and how such incidents can alter personal and professional trajectories, emphasizing the resilience required to overcome such challenges.

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The Beatles’ Arrival in the US – February 7, 1964

Highlighting one of music history’s most monumental events, Buzz and Harry celebrate The Beatles' first arrival in the United States and their subsequent appearance on The Ed Sullivan Show.

Harry Jacobs: "73 million people watched that show. It's one of the most iconic moments in both television and music history." ([09:10])

They explore the cultural phenomenon sparked by The Beatles, its role in the British Invasion, and its lasting influence on aspiring musicians worldwide.

Buzz Knight: "It changed so many people... It was a huge deal." ([10:35])

Buzz shares personal anecdotes about witnessing The Beatles' impact, including interactions with Paul McCartney, underscoring the profound personal and professional effects of such legendary moments.

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Technological Advancements in Music Recording – February 1979

Discussing the evolution of music production, Buzz and Harry highlight Stephen Stills' pioneering use of a 3M multi-track digital recorder.

Harry Jacobs: "Stephen Stills was a pioneer in that." ([10:37])

They examine how digital recording revolutionized the music industry, offering clearer sound and reduced noise, and acknowledge Stills' underrated guitar prowess that propelled these advancements.

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Personal Anecdotes: Meeting Paul McCartney

Buzz shares a heartfelt story about meeting Paul McCartney during a fundraiser for Paul Newman’s Hole in the Wall charity.

Buzz Knight: "It was a moment that I'll never forget. It was just... I pinched myself just thinking about how grateful I am for seeing him." ([14:22])

Harry inquires about Buzz’s interactions, revealing humorous and memorable moments from the encounter, adding a personal touch to the historical discussion.

Harry Jacobs: "You were actually in a room with him." ([13:57])

Buzz recounts the experience of being in the same room with McCartney, highlighting the significance and emotional weight of such a meeting for a music enthusiast and professional.

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Conclusion

Buzz and Harry wrap up their exploration of the week in music history with reflections on the enduring legacies of the artists and events discussed. They emphasize the interconnectedness of personal experiences and historical milestones in shaping the rich tapestry of music history.

Buzz Knight: "Thank you so much for a look at this week in music history... Listen to takin’ a Walk on Apple Podcast, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts." ([16:02])

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Notable Quotes

• Buzz Knight: "The day the music died... impacted music greatly on that day." ([02:57])
• Harry Jacobs: "Billy Idol got hurt... Gary Busey was never the same." ([08:54])
• Buzz Knight: "It was a moment that I'll never forget. It was just... I pinched myself just thinking about how grateful I am for seeing him." ([14:22])

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Final Thoughts

This episode of takin’ a Walk offers a comprehensive and engaging journey through pivotal moments in music history, enriched by personal stories and insightful commentary. For music enthusiasts and history buffs alike, Buzz Knight and Harry Jacobs provide a compelling narrative that underscores the profound impact of these events on the evolution of music.

Transcript

[Bobby Bones]

Hey, it's Bobby Bones. Join me and former NFL quarterback Matt Castle every Wednesday for our new podcast, Lots to say with Bobby Bones and Matt Castle. Between us, we have over 17,500 passing yards, multiple New York Times bestsellers, and one mirrorball trophy from Dancing with the Star. So where else are you going to find a show with that much athleticism and football insight? We talk sports, but we talk pop culture and music and a little bit of everything. Listen to Lots to Say with Bobby Bones and Matt Castle on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcast, or wherever you get your podcasts.

[Maria Tremarki]

Welcome to the Criminalia Podcast. I'm Maria Tremarki.

[Holly Fry]

And I'm Holly Fry. Together, we invite you into the dark and winding corridors of historical true crime.

[Maria Tremarki]

Each season we explore a new theme. From poisoners to art thieves, we uncover.

[Holly Fry]

The secrets of history's most interesting figures, from legal injustices to body snatching.

[Maria Tremarki]

And tune in at the end of each episode as we indulge in cocktails and mocktails inspired by each story story.

[Holly Fry]

Listen to criminalia on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.

[Arturo Castro]

Hi, I'm Arturo Castro, and I've been lucky enough to do stuff like Broad City and Narcos and Roadhouse, and now I'm starting a podcast because honestly, guys, I don't feel the space is crowded enough. Get ready for Greatest Escapes, a new comedy podcast about the wildest true escape stories in history. Each week, I'll be sitting down with some of the most hilarious actors and writers and comedians. People like Ed Helms, Diane Guerrero, and Joseph Gordon Levitt.

[Buzz Knight]

I love storytelling and I love you.

[Bobby Bones]

So I can't wait.

[Arturo Castro]

Listen and subscribe to Greatest escapes on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.

[Jon Stewart]

Jon Stewart is back at the Daily show, and he's bringing his signature wit and insight straight to your ears with the Daily Show Ears Edition podcast. Dive into John's unique take on the biggest topics in politics, entertainment, sports, and more. Joined by the sharp voices of the show's correspondence and contributors, and with extended interviews and exclusive weekly headline roundups, this podcast gives you content you won't find anywhere else. Ready to laugh and stay informed, listen on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.

[Buzz Knight]

I'm Buzz Knight, the host of the Taking a Walk podcast. And welcome to another look at this Week in Music History for the week of Febr, and we're going to go over to the Music History desk to A longtime friend of mine and associate. He is a music maven. He is also a radio maven from his days, and he's a musicologist, too. Harry Jacobs at the Music History desk. Hello, Harry.

[Harry Jacobs]

Buzz, great to. Great to be here. Excited about the week. A lot of great things to talk about, and I'm excited to do it. Get right into it.

[Buzz Knight]

Let's dive in. What you got there?

[Harry Jacobs]

On. On the 3rd of February, this is the day that the music died. This is a huge day in music. Buddy Holly, Richie Valen, the Big Bopper, all on a plane that went down near Cedar Lake, Iowa, impacted music greatly on that day.

[Buzz Knight]

And chronicled by Don McLean in American Pieces. Yeah.

[Harry Jacobs]

Pretty crazy.

[Buzz Knight]

Yep.

[Harry Jacobs]

Big. I love the Big Bopper.

[Buzz Knight]

I love. I wish somebody called me the Big Bopper.

[Harry Jacobs]

How do you get the name, the nickname, the Big Bopper?

[Buzz Knight]

I know. I love it.

[Harry Jacobs]

Another tragic event, 2003. On this day, Phil Spector was arrested in connection with a shooting death of Lana Clarkson on this day in Los Angeles. The guy arguably has a tremendous. And had a tremendous amount of talent. I mean, everybody looked at. At what he was doing stylistically, from the Beatles and the Beach Boys to, you know, our man Bruce Springsteen and so many others with the Wall of Sound. But he was respectfully, a kook. And I, you know, it's not really a. I shouldn't say. It's not a surprise, but the guy wasn't. Okay. He was a tortured soul. He just went to the extreme and he. When you watch the documentaries on this, a little frightening how he. I mean, the wigs were frightening enough, but the behavior was, you know, out of control, obviously dark.

[Buzz Knight]

A dark man with certainly talents and influence. But he abused those influences.

[Harry Jacobs]

Yeah. And he, you know, unfortunately abused women. And now he's incarcerated. U2 is back at the Sphere here in Vegas, which is where I'm located. So there's a handful of dates that they have coming up, and that's, you know, like everything at the Sphere. It's an expensive ticket. There is a. A cheaper option, however, if you'd like to see U2, and that is that movie, it's called Vu2, which was actually shot at the Sphere, is playing, you know, on. On certain days in between shows. So, you know, listen, you're. When you go see U2 at the sphere, you're not getting the traditional concert experience. Right. You're not able to sit up close. You don't really see the stage. You're seeing little figures from a great distance, but it's the background it's the screen. It's. It's all of. And that movie is an immersive experience which will help you experience you too, by the way. That's one of the groups kind of on my bucket list to see. I may bite the bullet and buy a ticket and go see them.

[Buzz Knight]

So just as Julian Lennon said on our episode of Taking a Walk, it's an interesting experience being at the sphere and you could almost not have to see the band to see the experience.

[Harry Jacobs]

You know, that says a lot. It's true. You don't really need to see it because of everything in the. In the background. It's pretty crazy. 4th of February is the day that rumors. Fleetwood Mac, that iconic album. We've talked about it a bunch in recent episodes, so we won't spend a lot of time here. But. But that came out on February 4 of 19, 1977. Just an iconic album. It's one of those that's, you know, it's in my phone on my playlist. I've got a Rumors. I have about 20 albums that, that have specific playlists and I guess that's in my top 20.

[Buzz Knight]

You. It's undeniably one of the. The great ones. So. And. And there's nothing like some of the music off of that one to kind of lift you up at certain moments that you need a little lift.

[Harry Jacobs]

You know, the tick tock and social media trends that came out with Dreams were interesting to me. You know, people kind of, you know, singing along with it and you know, walking down the street and there was a whole bunch of social connected that. That song got a whole new new. It was almost like the Sopranos with Don't Stop Believing right by Journey, right?

[Buzz Knight]

That's right. Yep.

[Harry Jacobs]

Interesting. February 5th, 1967, the Smothers Brothers debuted on CBS. A lot of. Lot of Vietnam War, a lot of humor. They're still funny. That's humor to me. That's still, you know, stands the test of time. A lot of time. A lot. A lot of things don't over the years. Smothers Brothers to me are still silly.

[Buzz Knight]

And fun and it was, it's, you know, iconic then, iconic now. I don't think we knew how much until years later. They were really pushing the, the boundaries the way they. They were. We. I don't think we understood it to that degree. So they were, you know, trailblazers, no doubt. You know, they were, they were irreverent.

[Harry Jacobs]

And they were sarcastic and not always necessarily direct in their approach. Wasn't a lot of that Humor going on. I think that's what you're. You're kind of getting at.

[Buzz Knight]

They were not mean by any stretch.

[Harry Jacobs]

No, they weren't. In 2006, Paul McCartney played Super Bowl 40 halftime show. And this was a turn in terms of super bowl entertainment and, and putting legendary rock artists on that stage for their 12 minutes. Yeah, yeah. Isn't it, Isn't it funny they.

[Buzz Knight]

Or something like that? Right.

[Harry Jacobs]

I. I read an article Springsteen wrote after his, and it was something like 13 minutes or 14. You know, something like that. Like, I remember him cutting Born to Run in half and 10th Avenue freeze out cut up. You know, it's just a kind of a medley of your hits. Remember Bruce doing that? And remember him sliding across the stage and hitting the cameraman?

[Buzz Knight]

Yes.

[Harry Jacobs]

Knocking the cameraman over. Yes. Here's a memory for you. February 6, 1990, was the day that Billy Idol had that horrific motorcycle accident in California. Ended up severely wounded and. And really put his music career on hold. Remember seeing the videos and the pictures of him with his cane.

[Buzz Knight]

Scary.

[Harry Jacobs]

The motorcycle is an unforgiving thing. I'm a rider for almost 40 years, knock on wood. And no injuries. But, but you know, Billy Idol, Gary Busey. Busey was never. Not that he was right before, but he was never the same.

[Buzz Knight]

They were the same right after that.

[Harry Jacobs]

And Billy Idol got hurt. And in the 7th of February, Beatles arrived in the US for the first time. And two days later they ended up on the Ed Sullivan show. And 73 million people watched that show. It's one of the most iconic moments in, in both television and music history.

[Buzz Knight]

You know, we could almost just do a podcast with musicians, only speaking about musicians. Memory of that moment. There's been a lot of folks that have talked about the impact that moment made, how that was the first thing that drew them into music as a career. I mean, one that comes to mind that mentioned it was Kenny Aronoff, but I know there's been others, so it could almost be a podcast unto itself. Don't steal this idea.

[Harry Jacobs]

It's true. It's. It changed it. It changed so many people. I just saw it, actually just saw someone on. On a YouTube video talking about it too, the. The influence. But yeah, it changed. Changed a lot of us. I mean, I wasn't alive then, but just even watching it when I was a kid and seeing it on a rerun or even now just to watch how. How crazy that was. 73 million people watching one thing in 1964 was a huge deal.

[Buzz Knight]

Absolutely. Yep.

[Harry Jacobs]

1979 Stephen Stills, he broke new ground. He recorded for the first time on a 3M multi track digital recorder. I had no idea that digital recorders were around. In 1979, 3M marketed this as one with clear sound and reduced noise. You know, for those of you that aren't musical and aren't really aware of that, you know, music was all recorded on big tapes and studios and, and this was an event that changed things exponentially. And Steven Stills was a pioneer in. In that.

[Buzz Knight]

Yeah, I didn't know that. And I think that is interesting. And the timing of it back in 79 is. Is kind of floors me as well.

[Harry Jacobs]

He. He's a really good guitar player. Really, like really seriously underrated. Great, great player.

[Buzz Knight]

Yep, I agree.

[Harry Jacobs]

In 1972, Paul McCartney hit the road with Wings. This was the first time that he went out as not the Beatles, as part of not the Beatles. I'm a fan of Wings, as. As poppy as some of it could be. You know, when you think about that catalog, think about things like Silly Love Songs and, and you know, on kind of the softer, you know, adult contemporary side. And then how. What an impact like Live and Let Die has. You know, when you hear that was done for the, for the James Bond movie or Jet or. There was some great rock stuff. He did some great AC stuff. He, he really, you know, worked for two different formats when he went solo.

[Buzz Knight]

Yeah. And I think, you know, look, that was an event in 72. And then subsequently when he would later go out. Each time a Beetle goes out, it's a big deal, you know, I'm sure you've seen him. Yes.

[Harry Jacobs]

More than once.

[Buzz Knight]

Yes.

[Harry Jacobs]

It's pretty amazing to hear, you know, the Long Unwinding Road or be. Or, you know, it's an emotional thing to see those songs, see and hear him and be in the same. In the same room with Paul McCartney.

[Buzz Knight]

Yeah, I was. I was fortunate in 2002 for that to happen and to be in the same room with him as well. Had that moment, and I'll never forget it, of not only seeing him, but being in the same room with him.

[Harry Jacobs]

Where was that?

[Buzz Knight]

Was in Philadelphia. And what was really cool about it is Bill Porelli, who was his rep for the management side, who interacted with radio. Bill came in radio and TV was represented TV in the form of. Remember Pat O'Brien who would do the, you know, the. Whatever that show.

[Harry Jacobs]

He was on Access Hollywood before Billy Bush was.

[Buzz Knight]

That's right.

[Harry Jacobs]

Pat had a little. Pat had a little stumble.

[Buzz Knight]

He had a stumble. So it was Pat O'Brien. And it was me who was there with Andre Gardner, the great Philadelphia dj. And Andre was going to do the interview, and Bill ended up asking Paul, would you like to do radio or TV first? And Paul said, radio.

[Harry Jacobs]

Wow.

[Buzz Knight]

Which was quite a moment.

[Harry Jacobs]

You were actually in a room with him. That's right. When I say in a room, I'm thinking like, you know, I was at the Centrum in Worcester when I saw him.

[Jon Stewart]

You were in a room?

[Buzz Knight]

Oh, yeah. It was unbelievable. And it was kind of funny that we left Battle Bryant waiting in the waiting room to be second. He was the. He had the bigger audience. But Paul chose radio. Yes, Paul.

[Harry Jacobs]

That must have been outstanding. Highlights. Highlights from that.

[Buzz Knight]

Everything, Every, every, everything, everything. It was a moment that I'll never forget. It was just. I pinched myself just thinking about how grateful I am for seeing him, but also being in the room with him. It's wonderful.

[Harry Jacobs]

Is that your. If you were to think about all the people you've met over the years, where would that be and who's. Who else is around that in that list? The top three or four for people that you've gotten to spend time with that you love like you love McCartney.

[Buzz Knight]

It would have to be Ringo some years earlier, obviously, so anything Beatles would be on that list. And then it was the couple of instances with the Stones in various shapes and sizes as well. I'd have to put that up there on that same list. And then in the. In the non music category, but still from the big star aspect of things, Paul Newman.

[Harry Jacobs]

Oh, how cool was that? Were you in here now? You were both in Connecticut?

[Buzz Knight]

I was in Connecticut and I did a fundraiser for his. His Hole in the Wall charity. I sat in 25,000 seats out of the 80,000 seats in the Yale bowl on behalf of. For his charity to. To raise funds. And there's a picture somewhere of Paul and I together. Paul looks like he really doesn't want to be with me, but it was still quite a thrill for me.

[Harry Jacobs]

Did you get a free bottle of salad dressing as well?

[Buzz Knight]

I got nothing. I got Paul just kind of going, can we get this picture over with? This joker.

[Harry Jacobs]

That's awesome. Yeah, that's it. We're done.

[Buzz Knight]

Well, Harry, thank you so much for a look at this week in music history for the week of February 3rd. And thanks for checking out the Taking a Walk podcast. We are part of the iHeart podcast network. We're also available on Apple Podcast, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts.

[Bobby Bones]

Hey, it's Bobby Bones. Join me and former NFL quarterback Matt Castle every Wednesday for our new podcast, Lots to say with Bobby Bones and Matt Castle. Between us, we have over 17,500 passing yards, multiple New York Times bestsellers, and one mirror ball trophy from Dancing With a Star. So where else you can find a show with that much athleticism and football insight? We talk sports, but we talk pop culture, culture and music. And a little bit of everything. Listen to Lots to Say with Bobby Bones and Matt Castle on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcast, or wherever you get your podcasts.

[Maria Tremarki]

Welcome to the Criminalia Podcast. I'm Maria Tremarke.

[Holly Fry]

And I'm Holly Fry. Together we invite you into the dark and winding corridors of historical true crime.

[Maria Tremarki]

Each season we explore a new theme, from poisoners to art thieves.

[Holly Fry]

We uncover the secrets of history's most interesting figures, from legal injustices to body snatching.

[Maria Tremarki]

And tune in at the end of each episode as we indulge in cocktails and mocktails inspired by each story.

[Holly Fry]

Listen to criminalia on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.

[Arturo Castro]

Hi, I'm Arturo Castro and I've been lucky enough to do stuff like Broad City and Narcos and Roadhouse. And now I'm starting a podcast because honestly guys, I don't feel the space is crowded enough. Get ready for Greatest Escapes, a new comedy podcast about the wildest true escape stories in history. Each week I'll be sitting down with some of the most hilar actors and writers and comedians. People like Ed Helms, Diane Guerrero, and Joseph Gordon Levitt.

[Buzz Knight]

I love storytelling and I love you.

[Bobby Bones]

So I can't wait.

[Arturo Castro]

Listen and subscribe to Greatest escapes on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.

[Jon Stewart]

Catch Jon Stewart back in action on the Daily show and in your ears with the Daily Show Ears Edition podcast. From his hilarious satirical takes on today's politics and entertainment to the unique voices of correspondents and contributors, it's your perfect companion to stay on top of what's happening now. Plus, you'll get special content just for podcast listeners, like in depth interviews and a roundup of the week's top headlines. Listen on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.