Podcast Summary: The 500 with Josh Adam Meyers – Episode 180: The Rolling Stones, Now! with Wayne Federman

Introduction

In Episode 180 of The 500 with Josh Adam Meyers, host Josh Adam Meyers, alongside comedian Wayne Federman and guest Fetty Wap, delves deep into The Rolling Stones' album "The Rolling Stones, Now!," which holds the number 180 spot on Rolling Stone Magazine’s esteemed list of the 500 Greatest Albums of All Time. Released on December 25, 2024, this episode offers a comprehensive exploration of the album's significance, the band's evolution, and their enduring legacy in the rock and roll pantheon.

Segment 1: Episode Kickoff and Guest Introduction [06:14]

The episode transitions from promotional content to the main discussion with Wayne Federman introducing the Rolling Stones' album. Fetty Wap joins the conversation, bringing a fresh perspective to the analysis.

Notable Quote:

Wayne Federman (06:52): "This is the only podcast that's going through Rolling Stone magazine's list of the 500 Greatest Albums, from 500 down to 1."

Segment 2: Origins and Early Years of The Rolling Stones [07:04 – 15:43]

The hosts recount the formation of The Rolling Stones, emphasizing Brian Jones' pivotal role in founding the band. They discuss how the band's name was inspired by Muddy Waters' song "Rollin' Stone" and delve into the band's early blues influences.

Discussion Highlights:

• Brian Jones' Influence: His passion for Chicago Electric Blues shaped the band's initial sound.
• Band Dynamics: The early lineup included Ian Stewart, who was later demoted to a roadie despite his musical contributions.
• Managerial Decisions: Rolling Stone's management reduced the band from six to five members to appear younger, leading to internal tensions.

Notable Quote:

Fetty Wap (16:01): "It all goes back to a guy who's dead named Brian Jones. He started the band but was almost kicked out due to drug and emotional problems."

Segment 3: Transition to Original Music and Breakthrough Hits [15:43 – 37:44]

The conversation shifts to The Rolling Stones' move from being a cover band to creating original music. Highlights include the creation of iconic tracks like "Satisfaction" and "Paint It Black," which marked their departure from pure blues into a more diverse rock sound.

Discussion Highlights:

• "Satisfaction": Described as a game-changer with its distinctive fuzz guitar riff.
• Songwriting Evolution: How Mick Jagger and Keith Richards developed their songwriting partnership.
• Impact of British Invasion: The Stones' role alongside The Beatles in shaping 1960s rock music.

Notable Quote:

Wayne Federman (62:04): "Satisfaction came to Keith Richards in a dream, much like Paul McCartney did with The Beatles."

Segment 4: The Altamont Speedway Concert and Its Aftermath [68:06 – 71:51]

A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to the infamous Altamont Speedway concert in 1969, which symbolized the end of the idealistic 1960s flower power movement and ushered in a darker era for rock festivals.

Discussion Highlights:

• Concert Failures: How hiring the Hell’s Angels for security led to violence and tragedy.
• Cultural Impact: The event's role in tarnishing the image of The Rolling Stones and the broader counterculture movement.
• Legacy of Altamont: Its lasting influence on how large-scale concerts are managed and perceived.

Notable Quote:

Fetty Wap (68:12): "Altamont was the dark side of the summer of love, marking the end of an era and the beginning of something much darker."

Segment 5: The Rolling Stones’ Endurance and Modern Relevance [72:10 – 90:01]

Despite decades in the music industry, The Rolling Stones remain a powerhouse, continually touring and maintaining a massive fanbase worldwide. The hosts discuss their ability to stay relevant, the challenges of internal band tensions, and their commercial success compared to contemporary artists.

Discussion Highlights:

• Touring Success: Drawing comparisons between The Rolling Stones' enduring tours and modern acts like Taylor Swift.
• Band Dynamics: The complex relationship between Mick Jagger and Keith Richards.
• Commercial Achievements: Highlighting their ranking as the fourth best-selling group of all time and their induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

Notable Quote:

Wayne Federman (86:43): "Mick Jagger has that charismatic frontman quality that keeps the band alive and thriving even into their 80s."

Segment 6: Favorite and Least Favorite Tracks [83:25 – 85:45]

In a lighter segment, Wayne and Fetty share their favorite and least favorite songs from "The Rolling Stones, Now!," providing personal insights and anecdotes related to each track.

Discussion Highlights:

• Favorite Tracks: Both express admiration for "Little Red Rooster" and discuss its blues roots and significance.
• Least Favorite Tracks: Criticisms of certain songs for not aligning with the band's strongest periods.

Notable Quote:

Fetty Wap (84:07): "I love 'Little Red Rooster' because it showcases where The Rolling Stones truly excelled in blending blues with rock."

Conclusion and Future Episodes [90:24 – 105:45]

The hosts wrap up the episode by reflecting on The Rolling Stones' monumental impact on music and hinting at future episodes in the series. They encourage listeners to engage with the podcast through social media and support them via Patreon.

Notable Quote:

Wayne Federman (105:45): "The Rolling Stones are a seminal act in show business, and it's incredible they're still going strong after all these years."

Final Thoughts

Episode 180 of The 500 with Josh Adam Meyers offers an in-depth and entertaining exploration of The Rolling Stones' album "The Rolling Stones, Now!" Through engaging dialogue and insightful analysis, listeners gain a comprehensive understanding of the band's evolution, their pivotal moments, and their lasting legacy in the world of rock and roll. Whether you're a die-hard fan or new to The Rolling Stones' music, this episode provides valuable perspectives and enriches your appreciation of one of the greatest bands of all time.

For More Information and Resources:

• Visit the podcast's YouTube channel for video episodes.
• Support the podcast on Patreon and join the Fleece Army for exclusive merch.
• Follow The 500 Podcast on social media at @Fetterman and @The500Podcast.