History in Five Songs with Martin Popoff

In Episode 382 of History in Five Songs with Martin Popoff, Martin explores rock and metal albums whose opening tracks overshadow the rest of the record in fame, heaviness, quality, or impact. Martin highlights iconic songs from bands including Kansas, The Clash, and Cheap Trick.

Kansas – “Carry on Wayward Son”

Uriah Heep – “Gypsy”

The Clash – “London Calling”

UFO – “Natural Thing”

Cheap Trick – “Dream Police” 0:06 – 0:36

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In Episode 381 of History in Five Songs with Martin Popoff, Martin examines how legendary rock and metal bands responded to major lineup, stylistic, and production changes on the albums that followed the shakeups. He compares records by Deep Purple, David Lee Roth, and others to reveal when bands refined a new sound, played it safe, or reached new creative heights.

Deep Purple – “No One Came”

David Lee Roth – “Hina”

Thin Lizzy – “Wild One”

ZZ Top – “Planet of Women”

UFO – “Let It Roll”

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In Episode 380 of History in Five Songs with Martin Popoff, Martin looks back at the modest metal victories of the '90s. From hair-metal revivals and thrash tours to underground bands earning major-label attention and surprising gold and platinum certifications, Martin recalls the excitement of championing metal during its supposedly “dead” era.

Poison – “Sexual Thing”

Machine Head – “Old”

Cathedral – “Ride”

Saigon Kick – “Freedom”

Monster Magnet – “Powertrip”

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In Episode 379 of History in Five Songs with Martin Popoff, Martin explores albums with unexpectedly high sales certifications. He highlights unusual successes across live albums, greatest hits compilations, soundtracks, EPs, and unconventional studio records, spotlighting artists including Cheap Trick, Kiss, and the Clash.

Cheap Trick – “Lookout”

Kiss – “Let’s Put the X in Sex”

Curtis Stigers – “What’s So Funny ‘Bout Peace, Love and Understanding”

Ugly Kid Joe – “Too Bad”

The Clash – “Ghetto Defendant”

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In Episode 378 of History in Five Songs with Martin Popoff, Martin examines the many ways rock singers use falsetto. From the theatrical and expressive styles of Queen and David Bowie to the comedic, shrieking, and novelty approaches of artists including King Diamond and the Rolling Stones, Martin goes deep on this one.

King Diamond – “Little One"

Queen – “Cool Cat”

Halford – “Silent Screams”

David Bowie – “Ashes to Ashes”

Rolling Stones – “Fool to Cry”

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