This Week in Music History on the "takin ' a walk " podcast 5-5

Summary

Podcast Summary: "takin' a walk" Episode 5-5 – This Week in Music History

Title: This Week in Music History
Host: Buzz Knight
Guest: Harry Jacobs
Release Date: May 5, 2025
Platform: iHeartPodcasts

---

Introduction

In this episode of "takin' a walk", Buzz Knight and guest Harry Jacobs delve into significant events in music history that occurred during the week of May 5th to May 11th. The discussion highlights iconic moments, influential albums, and notable anniversaries that have shaped the landscape of classic rock and beyond.

---

Led Zeppelin’s Historic Performances

May 5, 1973 – Led Zeppelin at Pontiac Silverdome
Harry Jacobs opens the discussion with Led Zeppelin's monumental performance at the Pontiac Silverdome on May 5, 1973. The band drew an astounding 79,000 fans, showcasing their unparalleled live presence. Jacobs remarks, "It's insane. I mean, thinking about it, right?" ([04:08]).

Earlier Milestones – Tampa Stadium Record
Four years prior, Led Zeppelin had already made waves by breaking The Beatles' attendance record at Tampa Stadium with a concert that attracted over 56,000 fans. This achievement underscored Zeppelin's dominant position in the rock scene.

---

Exploring "Becoming Led Zeppelin"

Buzz and Harry discuss the documentary "Becoming Led Zeppelin", which provides an in-depth look at the band's origins and legacy. Harry enthusiastically shares his experience: "Taking phenomenal footage and storytelling and the origins of Led Zeppelin" ([05:18]). The documentary reveals intriguing facts, such as Jimmy Page's early days playing Muzak and the origin of the band's name, coined by Keith Moon.

---

The Rolling Stones' Paris Debut

May 6, 1965 – The Rolling Stones in Paris
Harry Jacobs highlights the significance of The Rolling Stones' first concert in Paris on May 6, 1965. Bringing their raw energy to the French capital marked a pivotal moment in the band's international expansion.

---

Jimi Hendrix’s "Are You Experienced"

May 6, 1967 – Release of "Are You Experienced" in the UK
Jimi Hendrix released his seminal album "Are You Experienced" in the UK, featuring iconic tracks like "Foxy Lady" and "Manic Depression." Jacobs praises Hendrix's innovative guitar work, stating, "he tears it up, the way he writes, the emotional swings in his songwriting" ([06:15]).

Legacy of Guitar Legends
The conversation shifts to Hendrix's enduring legacy, placing him among guitar greats like Eddie Van Halen and Stevie Ray Vaughan. Buzz concurs, saying, "I would agree" ([07:04]).

---

Celebrating Bob Seger's Birthday

May 6, 1945 – Birth of Bob Seger
Bob Seger, born on May 6, 1945, is celebrated for his contributions to rock music. However, Jacobs comments on Seger's declining presence compared to his contemporaries, noting, "He's not looking good. And he's done now, he's done touring" ([07:16]).

---

The Who’s "Tommy"

May 7, 1969 – Release of "Tommy"
Harry Jacobs brings attention to The Who's double album "Tommy," a groundbreaking rock opera released on May 7, 1969. The album tells the story of a deaf, dumb, and blind boy who becomes a pinball wizard and spiritual leader. Jacobs provides insights into the production timeline and its subsequent adaptations, including a symphonic recording and a Broadway show that won a Tony Award in 1993 ([10:13]).

---

The Beatles’ "Get Back" Triumph

May 10, 1969 – "Get Back" Hits Number One in the US
The Beatles' single "Get Back" reached number one on the US charts on May 10, 1969. This achievement underscores the band's lasting influence and continued popularity during that era.

---

Paul McCartney Meets Linda Eastman

May 10, 1967 – Paul McCartney and Linda Eastman’s Meeting
Harry shares an interesting tidbit about Paul McCartney meeting Linda Eastman at a Georgie Fame concert in 1967. Although Buzz admits limited knowledge of Georgie Fame, the anecdote highlights the personal lives of The Beatles members and their significant relationships.

---

Bob Marley’s Passing

May 11, 1981 – Death of Bob Marley
Concluding the week’s highlights, Harry Jacobs marks the passing of reggae legend Bob Marley on May 11, 1981, at the age of 36 due to cancer. Both hosts express their admiration for Marley's enduring impact on music and lament his untimely death. Buzz reflects, "I feel like he would be a massive creative, well into his life if he was able to have lived longer" ([12:10]).

---

Personal Anecdotes and Reflections

Throughout the episode, Buzz and Harry share personal experiences related to the discussed artists. Buzz recounts attending a Springsteen show and observing Bob Seger's engagement, highlighting the infectious joy of live performances ([07:16]). Additionally, they discuss their experiences with The Grateful Dead, emphasizing diverse fan perspectives and concert experiences.

---

Conclusion

Buzz Knight wraps up the episode by thanking Harry Jacobs for his insightful contributions and reminding listeners to tune into "takin' a walk" on platforms like Apple Podcasts and Spotify. The hosts celebrate the rich tapestry of music history, encouraging fans to explore the stories behind their favorite artists and albums.

---

Notable Quotes:

• Harry Jacobs on Led Zeppelin's Tampa Stadium Record: "It's insane. I mean, thinking about it, right?" ([04:08])
• Harry Jacobs on "Becoming Led Zeppelin": "Taking phenomenal footage and storytelling and the origins of Led Zeppelin" ([05:18])
• Harry Jacobs on Jimi Hendrix's Legacy: "He tears it up, the way he writes, the emotional swings in his songwriting" ([06:15])
• Harry Jacobs on Bob Seger: "He's not looking good. And he's done now, he's done touring" ([07:16])
• Buzz Knight on Bob Marley: "I feel like he would be a massive creative, well into his life if he was able to have lived longer" ([12:10])

---

Final Thoughts:

This episode of "takin' a walk" offers a nostalgic journey through pivotal moments in music history, enriched by personal anecdotes and expert insights from Buzz Knight and Harry Jacobs. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to classic rock, the episode provides a comprehensive and engaging exploration of the events that have defined generations of music lovers.

Transcript

[Harry Jacobs]

You're listening to an Iheart podcast.

[Nissan Representative]

The Black Effect Podcast Festival is back. We're partnering with Nissan, so pull up to their exclusive lounge to get a special look at the all new 2025 Nissan Kicks and Nissan Rogue. The Nissan Rogue S is more affordable than CR V and RAV4 and features available 12.3 inch touchscreen display while the all new Nissan Kicks holds it down with a totally redesigned interior cabin with features like available wireless Apple carplay and available panoramic moonroof. Relax and see how Nissan is leveling up the game. Come kick it April 26th at Pullman Yards in Atlanta. Get ready for culture, community and good conversation.

[Coca-Cola Representative]

The best moments happen when you're with your people, laughing, vibing and just enjoying life. Coke is making those moments even sweeter. Share a Coke is back and it's all about sharing with the whole crew. Doesn't matter if it's your bestie or bro, there's a can with their name on it. So grab one for the squad and make some memories. But hurry because these Coca Cola limited edition bottles and cans won't be here forever. Don't miss your chance to share a Coke with all your favorite people.

[Lowe's Representative]

Lowes helps refresh your garden in time for Mother's Day. Right now, get five bags of one and a half cubic foot Scott's Naturescapes mulch for just $10 plus select one and a half gallon annuals. Hanging baskets make the perfect gift. Now two for only $15. The best garden starts with great deals Lowe's. We help you Save. Valid through 5 7. Selection varies by location while supplies last. Discount taken at time of purchase.

[Greenlight Representative]

Did you know that parents rank financial literacy as the number one most difficult life skill to teach? Meet Greenlight, the debit card and money app for families. With Greenlight, you can send money to kids quickly, set up chores automate allowance, and keep an eye on what your kids are spending real time Notifications Kids learn to earn, save and spend wisely, and parents can rest easy knowing their kids are learning about money with guardrails in place. Try Greenlight Risk free [e-mail] iheart millions.

[Claude AI Representative]

Of people have turned to Claude, the AI assistant from Anthropic, because it just feels different. Where other AIs often sound a little robotic, Claude has been designed with special research that informs its character, meaning that Claude just gets it when it comes to empathy and emotional intelligence. That's why Claude has become the if you know, you know choice for dating advice, career coaching, gathering your thoughts for those important life Decisions and more. Give Claude a try for free at Claude.com. that's C-L-A-U-E.com and let us know how you feel the difference.

[Buzz Knight]

I'm Buzz Knight, the host of the Taking a walk podcast. Music history on foot. Gonna have another look at this week in music history. This is for the week of May 5th. And what we decide to do when we look at music history is we saunter over to the music history desk and there is the one and only Harry Jacobs. Hello, Harry.

[Harry Jacobs]

Happy to be here, Buzz. For another week, the week of May 5th to the 11th. Another great week for mainly classic rock.

[Buzz Knight]

Let me just imagine this one, I think is gonna have its fair share of the pillars of classic rock.

[Harry Jacobs]

Zeppelin, Stones and Beatles are going to be covered this week. A little teaser for the week.

[Buzz Knight]

All right, let's bring it on.

[Harry Jacobs]

Let's start 1973. We talked about the, the Led Zeppelin Pontiac Silver Dome show from 77 on, on last week's episode where, you know, 79,000 or whatever they played at Silver Dome, May 5, 1973. Four years before that, Zeppelin played for over 56,000 fans in Tampa at the Tampa Stadium. And that broke the Beatles attendance record at Tampa Stadium.

[Buzz Knight]

It's insane. I mean, thinking about it, right?

[Harry Jacobs]

Yeah, yeah, just a crazy, crazy thing I would love, you know, I'd give anything to, to see Led Zeppelin again. Have you seen Becoming Led Zeppelin yet?

[Buzz Knight]

No. Dying to. I know you loved it.

[Harry Jacobs]

I, I, I loved it. And I don't, you know, as a rule, you're one of those guys, by the way, for, for those listening. Buzz doesn't use his phone much at night at home versus most of us. Like if you want to text me at 9:00 or 10:00 at night, you know, I'll always respond. But you, I think, you know, I don't know if you got a rule in your house, you and your wife, you're like, we're just going to be in, we're going to be present. Which by the way, is good. I'm condemning you.

[Buzz Knight]

That's it. That's exactly it. By the way, you might catch a response from me at, you know, 1:30 in the morning too, you know.

[Harry Jacobs]

Yes. Yeah, I know. The insomnia kicks in and I get, I get emails and texts at that hour. But yeah, so I texted you. It was late in your time. It was 10 o'clock your time. I had just gotten through watching Becoming Led Zeppelin. I thought, Buzz needs to find this immediately. It's a great, great documentary.

[Buzz Knight]

I will see it for sure. It's not going to be as painful as me watching the Dylan one and.

[Harry Jacobs]

Taking no phenomenal footage and storytelling and the origins of. Of Led Zeppelin. And, you know, Jimmy Page was. Was part of a group of people that played Muzak in the early days before he was in Led Zeppelin.

[Buzz Knight]

It's crazy.

[Harry Jacobs]

You know, you get. You get the truth behind the Led Zeppelin name, which was Keith Moon, who came up with that, which is crazy. So, yeah, a lot of good information. Maybe we'll have a little episode or a little section of an episode on that after you see it.

[Buzz Knight]

Sounds good.

[Harry Jacobs]

In 65, on May 6, the Stones played their first concert in Paris. Big deal for them to play Paris.

[Buzz Knight]

That's wild. I wish. I wish I was there for that. That's for sure.

[Harry Jacobs]

Jimi Hendrix in 67 released are you experienced in the UK? Think about the tracks on that. Foxy Lady, Manic Depression, Are youe Experienced, and Fire. One of my favorite Hendrix songs.

[Buzz Knight]

And I feel like he's one of those people we know of his great legacy, certainly, but I think back then he was one of those people that many folks were like, wow, this is like, so out of nowhere. This, the way this guy tears it up, the way he writes, the way he takes you through different emotional swings in terms of his. His songwriting and his. His music. And, you know, like. Like many gone too soon.

[Harry Jacobs]

You know, he's one of, you know, really one of the three guitar players that. That just stand out as being so different than anyone else that ever picks it up. Right. It's, you know, it's Hendrix, it's Eddie Van Halen and Stevie Ray Vaughan, as far as I'm concerned.

[Buzz Knight]

Yeah, right. I would agree.

[Harry Jacobs]

Top of the list. Bob Seger was born on May 6, 1945. It's a guy, you know, love. Love his music. He has not aged well.

[Buzz Knight]

No, he hasn't.

[Harry Jacobs]

You know, you look at his peers, you know, again, you look at Springsteen or any of those people in that. In that time period, and Bob's not looking good. And he's done now he's done touring. He's not gonna play again.

[Buzz Knight]

I was at a Springsteen show probably 10 years ago or so in. In Detroit, and I saw one of the coolest things from where I was sitting, I saw where Bob was and. And I witnessed Bob taking in the show. And the joy that he experienced was so contagious to watch because he was just in the zone, smiling, singing along. And then later he would go out and Join Bruce for I Forget which. Which song.

[Harry Jacobs]

I think I know which. Which one. Which. I bet it was Rambling Gambling Man.

[Buzz Knight]

Okay. Yeah, that's.

[Harry Jacobs]

That's a song that Bruce plays when he's in Detroit.

[Buzz Knight]

But it was very sweet moment, you know.

[Harry Jacobs]

Yeah, that's. That's neat to hear. In 1937, the Hindenburg disaster occurred in New Jersey. And I think a lot of people wonder about the COVID of Led Zeppelin 1. And that is actually a picture of the Hindenburg disaster. For the album, they made a black and white kind of distorted picture of the Hindenburg.

[Buzz Knight]

Great cover.

[Harry Jacobs]

Yeah. May 7, 1971, the Stones released Sticky Fingers in the US and Bill Krugsman from the Grateful Dead was born in 46. I. I don't know either one of those you want to talk about. I was never a big Grateful Dead fan at all. I never got into them. The hits I liked, but, you know, Sugar Magnolia and Trucking, I. I enjoyed. But I wasn't a fan of getting high and spending three hours at a Dead show or standing in a parking lot or wearing sandals. I just didn't. It was my thing.

[Buzz Knight]

Yeah. I only went to one.

[Harry Jacobs]

How was it?

[Buzz Knight]

It was a terrible experience because we rode a bus from Dayton to Cincinnati and. Yeah. And, you know, arrived for the show and pretty much the rest goes up in smoke, literally.

[Harry Jacobs]

And that was going to be. My next question is, was there smoking going.

[Buzz Knight]

Everything went up in smoke. So.

[Harry Jacobs]

Yeah. On May 8, the Beatles, another Beatles Story released. Let It Be in the US we.

[Buzz Knight]

Knew we'd have more Beatles.

[Harry Jacobs]

There it is, Curtain Call and Alex van Halen's birthday, 1953. In 74, Zeppelin, on May 9, launched a North American tour in support of Led Zeppelin 4. The album is given other titles by people, but it's. It's Led Zeppelin 4.

[Buzz Knight]

Yeah.

[Harry Jacobs]

Right.

[Buzz Knight]

You know, once again, just a killer, you know, killer album, you know, cover to cover.

[Harry Jacobs]

When the Levee Breaks, Misty Mountain Hop, Going to California, Stairway Goes on.

[Buzz Knight]

List Goes on. Yep.

[Harry Jacobs]

Great stuff.

[Buzz Knight]

Yep.

[Harry Jacobs]

In 1969, the WHO released Tommy Double album. The story of the deaf, dumb and blind kid that became a pinball wizard and a religious leader, Tommy Walker.

[Buzz Knight]

Oh, wow. There you go.

[Harry Jacobs]

Yeah.

[Buzz Knight]

We said the Pillars of classic rock. We can't forget about the who when we talk about the Pillars and classic rock. Right.

[Harry Jacobs]

Took them a long time. They started recording that in September of 68, and they didn't finish until March of 69, and then they're in 70. They did something. There was a symphonic recording of it with the London Symphony. And then in 75, the film came out with, you know, Elton John in the film as well and a number.

[Buzz Knight]

Of other people as some stuff. Yeah.

[Harry Jacobs]

And in 80 or 93, rather, it won a Tony for the Broadway show.

[Buzz Knight]

Oh, I didn't know that. Wow.

[Harry Jacobs]

Yep.

[Buzz Knight]

Wow.

[Harry Jacobs]

Big, big deal. May 10, 1969, the Beatles get back hit number one on the US charts. Another Beatles story. And, and, and it's going to be followed by another Beatles related story. In 67, Paul McCartney met Linda Eastman, who later became Linda McCartney. They met at the Georgie Fame concert.

[Buzz Knight]

That's pretty wild. I didn't know the Georgie Fame concert part of it. Do you know who Georgie Fame is?

[Harry Jacobs]

I have no idea who Georgie Fame is.

[Buzz Knight]

My only exposure to Georgie is there was a period he was out with Van Morrison on the road 15, 20 years ago. So that's how I became exposed to George E. Fame. I love the name too.

[Harry Jacobs]

Georgie Fame. Georgie Fame is a guy or a band or guy. Okay, interesting last story for the week. May 11, 1981, Bob Marley died of cancer at 36 years old.

[Buzz Knight]

What a. Too, too soon. Geez.

[Harry Jacobs]

Yeah, Yeah.

[Buzz Knight]

I feel like he would. Would be a massive creative, you know, well into his life if he was able to have lived longer, you know, without question.

[Harry Jacobs]

Were you a reggae fan at all.

[Buzz Knight]

And you know, just in the right moment.

[Harry Jacobs]

Yeah.

[Buzz Knight]

You get it.

[Harry Jacobs]

Okay. Yeah, no, I get it.

All right.

There you go. Anyway, that's this week from May 5th through the 11th plus.

[Buzz Knight]

Oh, Harry, thank you so much. A lot of fun as always, and insightful too, as you are the purveyor of this week in music history. And thanks for listening to the Taking a Walk podcast, available Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and yes, the Iheart podcast network.

[Harry Jacobs]

Not everyone who handles your personal information is going to be as careful as you are. And it only takes one mistake to expose it to hackers and identity theft. Maybe that's why there's a new victim of identity theft every five seconds in the United States. Fortunately, there's Lifelock. Lifelock monitors hundreds of millions of data points a second for threats to your identity. If your identity is stolen, a LifeLock US based restoration specialist will help solve identity theft issues on your behalf, guaranteed or your money back. Plus, all Lifelock plans are backed by the million dollar protection package, meaning Lifelock will reimburse you up to the limits of your plan. If you lose money due to identity theft, you can't control how diligent others are with your personal information. But with Lifelock, you can help protect it. Act now and save up to 40% your first year. Call 1-800-LIFELOCK and use promo code iheart or go to lifelock.com iheart for 40% off. Terms apply.

[Chase Representative]

Behind every successful business is a vision. Bringing it to life takes more than effort. It takes the right financial foundation and support. That's where Chase for Business comes in. With convenient digital tools, helpful resources and personalized guidance, we can help your business forge ahead confidently. Learn [e-mail] business chase for business make more of what's yours the Chase Mobile app is available for select mobile devices. Message and data rates may apply JP Morgan Chase Bank NA Member FDIC Copyright 2025 JPMorgan Chase and did you know?

[Refresh Optive Representative]

Women are more likely than men to develop dry eyes, which may be due to hormonal changes during the menstrual cycle or after menopause and the use of oral contraceptives. Give your dry, burning or irritated eyes a daily refresh with refresh Optiv Mega 3 Lubricant Eye Drops, a preservative free formula that provides fast acting, lasting relief. Refresh Optive Mega 3 is safe to use as often as needed. Find Refresh online or in the eyedrop aisle at all major retailers.

[Harry Jacobs]

Here at the Almond Joy Factory, where tropical vibes abound, we use soft, fresh.

[Chase Representative]

Tasting coconut, the crunchiest almonds, and delicious chocolate candy.

[Harry Jacobs]

Ah, but do you know what our most important ingredient is? Sometimes you feel like a nut, sometimes you don't. Almond Joy's got nuts and something even way better than that. Yes, Almond Joy is made with almonds.

[Buzz Knight]

And.

[Greenlight Representative]

This message comes from Greenlight. Ready to start talking to your kids about financial literacy? Meet Greenlight, the debit card and money app that teaches kids and teens how to earn, save, spend wisely and invest with your guardrails in place. With Greenlight, you can send money to kids quickly, set up chores, automate allowance, and keep an eye on what your kids are spending with real time notifications. Join millions of parents and kids building healthy financial habits together on Greenlight. Get started risk [e-mail] iHeart.

[Harry Jacobs]

You're listening to an iHeart podcast.