Podcast Summary: "takin' a walk" Episode: This Week in Music History on April 7th

Host: Buzz Knight
Co-Host: Harry Jacobs
Release Date: April 7, 2025
Podcast Network: iHeartPodcasts

Introduction

In this episode of the "takin' a walk" music history podcast, host Buzz Knight and co-host Harry Jacobs delve into significant events in music history that occurred during the week of April 7th. The duo combines historical insights with personal anecdotes, providing listeners with an engaging exploration of music's past.

Capitol Records Tower: A Landmark in Music History

Timestamp: [01:42] - [03:14]

Buzz and Harry begin by discussing the Capitol Records Tower in downtown Los Angeles, celebrated as the world's largest circular office building. Opened in 1956, the iconic structure remains Capitol's headquarters.

Harry Jacobs:
"Did you know that in the basement of the building there are echo chambers, and that's where they recorded 'Good Vibrations' so they could get all that, you know, the cellos at the beginning and all that stuff."
[02:29]

Buzz shares a personal experience visiting the Capitol Records Tower, remarking on the hallowed halls filled with musical history. The conversation highlights the building's continued relevance and its role in producing legendary music pieces.

Richie Blackmore's Transition from Deep Purple to Rainbow

Timestamp: [03:14] - [04:22]

The hosts reflect on April 7th, 1975, marking Richie Blackmore's final performance with Deep Purple in Paris before forming the band Rainbow. They discuss the seamless transition and impact of Rainbow on the classic rock scene.

Harry Jacobs:
"I always liked Rainbow. They were kind of a tertiary band for classic rock stations... 'Man on the Silver Mountain' is a song, by the way, which I love still."
[03:37]

Buzz adds his favorite Rainbow track, "Stone Cold," criticizing its categorization as a typical hair band song, showcasing their differing musical preferences within the classic rock genre.

California World Music Festival 1979

Timestamp: [04:22] - [05:10]

Harry recounts the April 7th, 1979, California World Music Festival held at the LA Coliseum. The event featured major acts like Aerosmith, Cheap Trick, and Van Halen, epitomizing the height of rock's wild side.

Harry Jacobs:
"This was Stephen and Joe, the Toxic twins at the height of their madness in 1979... Might have been even a fist fight at that concert between those two."
[04:52]

Buzz expresses interest in discovering rare backstage footage that could provide deeper insights into the chaotic dynamics of the performers during the festival.

Alice Cooper's Near-Fatal Concert Stunt in 1988

Timestamp: [05:10] - [08:43]

The conversation shifts to a harrowing event from April 13th, 1988, when Alice Cooper nearly died during a concert stunt in Wembley. A broken rope during a hanging illusion nearly asphyxiated him, but a quick-thinking roadie saved his life.

Harry Jacobs:
"Isn't that just crazy that he would almost choke himself to death and, you know, Rhodey saves him and they keep going."
[05:39]

Buzz shares a personal anecdote from promoting Alice Cooper, recounting a memorable event where Alice Cooper participated in a promotional stunt disguised as Ohio State football coach John Cooper. This story underscores Alice Cooper's charismatic and unpredictable nature.

International Louie Louie Day & Richard Berry's Birthday

Timestamp: [08:43] - [10:05]

Buzz highlights April 11th as both International Louie Louie Day and Richard Berry's birthday. He muses on the enduring mystery of the song "Louie Louie," challenging listeners to find someone who knows the lyrics verbatim.

Harry Jacobs:
"I defy you to find someone walking down the street that knows the words to it word for word."
[08:43]

They also reminisce about Philadelphia radio personality John DiBella's extravagant Louie Louie parade promotions, illustrating the song's cultural impact.

Bruce Springsteen's Unreleased Tracks Project

Timestamp: [10:05] - [21:00]

A significant portion of the episode is devoted to Bruce Springsteen's recent release of "Tracks Part Two," a six-album set of previously unreleased music. Harry provides insights into the project, clarifying misconceptions about the inclusion of a full band version of "Nebraska."

Harry Jacobs:
"All six. It's available on iTunes. The music's just not highlighted yet."
[10:05]

Buzz shares his anticipation for the full band version of "Nebraska," expressing disappointment that it hasn't been released. The hosts discuss the legacy of Springsteen's unreleased works and their significance for fans.

Billy Joel and Christie Brinkley's Separation Anniversary

Timestamp: [21:00] - [22:44]

Reflecting on personal milestones in music and celebrity lives, Buzz and Harry note the April 11th anniversary of Billy Joel and Christie Brinkley's separation in 1994 after nine years of marriage. They touch upon the cultural resonance of Joel's song for their daughter, Alexa.

Harry Jacobs:
"How I'm sitting next to the name you just said... The song about the... that was part of it."
[21:30]

Buzz humorously highlights the unique combination of personal beauty and fame their daughter possesses, further humanizing the narrative.

Phil Spector's Conviction for Lana Clarkson's Murder

Timestamp: [22:15] - [23:26]

In a somber closing segment, the hosts discuss the April 7th, 2009 conviction of Phil Spector for the murder of Lana Clarkson. They reflect on Spector's turbulent career and the tragic end of his life.

Harry Jacobs:
"Phil Spector was convicted of murdering Lana Clarkson in his home four years prior to that. That guy is just a nut case."
[22:15]

Conclusion

Buzz wraps up the episode, thanking Harry Jacobs for his contributions and reminding listeners to tune into new content on the iHeartRadio app and Apple Podcasts.

Buzz Knight:
"Thank you very much for this week in music history. It's always great to bat around with you and thanks to all of you for listening to the Taking a Walk podcast."
[22:15]

The episode effectively combines historical facts, personal stories, and expert analysis, providing a comprehensive overview of significant music events tied to the week of April 7th.

Notable Quotes:

• Harry Jacobs on Capitol Records Echo Chambers:
  "That's where they recorded 'Good Vibrations' so they could get all that, you know, the cellos at the beginning and all that stuff."
  [02:29]

• Buzz Knight on Richie Blackmore:
  "Pretty incredible that he was able to do that so seamlessly."
  [03:31]

• Harry Jacobs on Alice Cooper's Concert Stunt:
  "Isn't that just crazy that he would almost choke himself to death and, you know, Rhodey saves him and they keep going."
  [05:39]

• Buzz Knight on Watching the Bob Dylan Documentary:
  "I thought his performance, meaning playing the music, was tremendous. You have to admire the diligence that he brought to that."
  [14:03]

• Harry Jacobs on Phil Spector:
  "That guy is just a nut case."
  [22:15]

This comprehensive summary encapsulates the richness of discussions, key historical points, and personal insights shared by Buzz Knight and Harry Jacobs, providing a valuable overview for both regular listeners and newcomers to the "takin' a walk" podcast.