69 episodes

The airwaves have been a touch too quiet, don’t you think? The studio has been dark, the curtains drawn, and the amps silent. But fear not, music aficionados, Riffs on Riffs is back with a full-fledged podcast revival.

Riffs on Riffs has always been about the thrill of musical discovery, that tingle down your spine when a perfect melody kicks in. Every chart-topper is a sonic time capsule. We'll crack it open, trace its history, decode those cryptic lyrics, and unearth the hidden gems in its musical DNA. Hosts Joe and Toby are back as your audio archaeologists, digging up the stories behind the songs.

But here's where it gets fun. From those melodies, we riff. Wild tangents, pop culture connections, personal stories, those "shower thoughts" sparked by a killer chorus – think of it as the ultimate deep dive followed by a freewheeling jam session inspired by the hits. Dust off your headphones and get ready to rediscover those songs you thought you knew.

Riffs on Riffs Evergreen Podcasts

    • Music
    • 4.9 • 59 Ratings

The airwaves have been a touch too quiet, don’t you think? The studio has been dark, the curtains drawn, and the amps silent. But fear not, music aficionados, Riffs on Riffs is back with a full-fledged podcast revival.

Riffs on Riffs has always been about the thrill of musical discovery, that tingle down your spine when a perfect melody kicks in. Every chart-topper is a sonic time capsule. We'll crack it open, trace its history, decode those cryptic lyrics, and unearth the hidden gems in its musical DNA. Hosts Joe and Toby are back as your audio archaeologists, digging up the stories behind the songs.

But here's where it gets fun. From those melodies, we riff. Wild tangents, pop culture connections, personal stories, those "shower thoughts" sparked by a killer chorus – think of it as the ultimate deep dive followed by a freewheeling jam session inspired by the hits. Dust off your headphones and get ready to rediscover those songs you thought you knew.

    Journey "Don't Stop Believin'"

    Journey "Don't Stop Believin'"

    In this week’s episode, Joe and Toby dive deep into Journey’s legendary 1981 single “Don’t Stop Believin’” and explore the song’s rich history along with their personal connections to this timeless anthem. The guys discuss how the song’s structure cleverly delays the iconic chorus, creating a powerful moment when Steve Perry finally belts out the main hook, and they marvel at Perry’s incredible vocal prowess that makes this moment so unforgettable. With insights into the song’s creation and reflections on how it has resonated in their own lives, Joe and Toby offer listeners a heartfelt journey into why this track remains a beacon of hope and resilience. Tune in and get ready to hold on to that feelin’ of classic rock greatness!

    Riffs on Riffs is brought to you by DistroKid, the ultimate partner for taking your music to the next level. Riffs on Riffs listeners get 30% off your first YEAR with DistroKid by signing up at http://distrokid.com/vip/riffsonriffs
    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    • 48 min
    Four Guys Riff In a Bar

    Four Guys Riff In a Bar

    In this special crossover episode of Riffs on Riffs, Joe and Toby team up with Todd Coats and Elliot Strunk from the Two Designers Walk Into a Bar podcast to talk about those rare and special albums that blow our minds both sonically and visually. Together, the four share their own picks of iconic albums where the music and visual aesthetics combine to create something that transcends beyond both music and visual art. From universally acclaimed classics to hidden gems, each host passionately defends their picks while sharing personal anecdotes and the stories behind the artwork's conception. If you enjoy the banter of your beloved Riffs hosts, then the 2X multiplier of 2 Designers will be a treat! Join us for conversation on design choices, musical influences, and the profound impact of album art on our cultural consciousness. Just be sure to tip your bartenders and wait staff! 
     
    Learn more and listen to Two Designers Walk into a Bar here: https://www.twodesignerswalkintoabar.com

    Riffs on Riffs is brought to you by DistroKid, the ultimate partner for taking your music to the next level. Riffs on Riffs listeners get 30% off your first YEAR with DistroKid by signing up at http://distrokid.com/vip/riffsonriffs
    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    • 1 hr 9 min
    Red Hot Chili Peppers "Under the Bridge"

    Red Hot Chili Peppers "Under the Bridge"

    In this episode of Riffs on Riffs, Joe and Toby dive into the 1992 hit "Under The Bridge" by Red Hot Chili Peppers. They explore the emotional turmoil and isolation Anthony Kiedis was experiencing when he penned the song, reflecting on how it resonated with them in their youth. The discussion highlights the exceptional musical talent of the band members, while noting Kiedis’s role as more of a stylist than a traditional singer. Join Joe and Toby as they walk through the city streets of this iconic track, sharing personal connections and musical insights along the way.

    Riffs on Riffs is brought to you by DistroKid, the ultimate partner for taking your music to the next level. Riffs on Riffs listeners get 30% off your first YEAR with DistroKid by signing up at http://distrokid.com/vip/riffsonriffs
    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    • 49 min
    Katy Perry "I Kissed a Girl"

    Katy Perry "I Kissed a Girl"

    In this episode of Riffs on Riffs, Joe and Toby explore Katy Perry's groundbreaking 2008 debut single "I Kissed A Girl." Initially met with strong resistance from her label and controversy from some who felt it appropriated the gay lifestyle, the song nonetheless resonated with many fans. Over time, listeners have shared how it opened their eyes to their own desires, and Perry’s unwavering support of the LGBTQ+ community has helped heighten awareness. Beyond its impact, "I Kissed A Girl" is undeniably catchy and launched Perry into a career filled with a string of hits, culminating in her 2015 Super Bowl halftime performance. Tune in this week as the guys get deep into the song that started it all.

    Riffs on Riffs is brought to you by DistroKid, the ultimate partner for taking your music to the next level. Riffs on Riffs listeners get 30% off your first YEAR with DistroKid by signing up at http://distrokid.com/vip/riffsonriffs .
    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    • 45 min
    Owl City "Fireflies"

    Owl City "Fireflies"

    In this episode of Riffs on Riffs, Joe and Toby dive into Owl City’s hit 2009 single “Fireflies.” While the somewhat over-the-top, synth-heavy pop song might not totally resonate with them, they certainly respect the hustle of Adam Young, the mastermind behind Owl City. The guys get deep into the lyrics, which paint a sugary picture of a night of insomnia. They also explore how “Fireflies” not only topped the charts in the US but also captivated audiences worldwide. Tune in to hear Joe and Toby’s insightful take on this phenomenon of a song—it’s certainly a podcast experience that will leave you feeling like you’ve just gotten a thousand hugs from ten thousand lightning bugs.

    Riffs on Riffs is brought to you by DistroKid, the ultimate partner for taking your music to the next level. Get 30% off your first YEAR with DistroKid by signing up at http://distrokid.com/vip/riffsonriffs .
    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    • 47 min
    Pharrell Williams "Happy"

    Pharrell Williams "Happy"

    This week, Toby and Joe dive into Pharrell Williams' iconic 2013 hit single "Happy." Released at a time when people were in need of a lift, this infectious track became an instant anthem. Originally written for the animated film Despicable Me 2 and intended for Cee Lo Green, Pharrell ended up recording the song himself, turning it into a worldwide sensation. As the guys explore all things Pharrell, they unpack the song's origins, its impact on pop culture, and much more. So get ready to feel the joy and groove along as Toby and Joe dissect the magic behind "Happy" and celebrate the genius of Pharrell Williams.

    Riffs on Riffs is brought to you by DistroKid, the ultimate partner for taking your music to the next level. Riffs on Riffs listeners get 30% off your first YEAR with DistroKid by signing up at http://distrokid.com/vip/riffsonriffs .
    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    • 49 min

Customer Reviews

4.9 out of 5
59 Ratings

59 Ratings

Canyonbro ,

Love this!

Joe and Toby are so much fun to listen to and I learn so much!

Elliot Strunk ,

Great Research, Great Chemistry

Joe and Toby know their stuff, digging in the crates to connect the dots for their listeners. Couched in pop culture rather than academics, Riffs on Riffs is a fun trip through music history. Stop reading, start listening.

TheMonarchsofYourHeart ,

A fun listen

It’s fun learning about some of my favorite songs and artists with this podcast. Also pretty goofy in a good way.

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